Ellington

NCAA Women's Basketball

Christmas with the Mayor Glass

Christmas with the Mayor

Kila Latch Key new classroom

Kila Latch Key inside gymnasium

Noah Benjamin Armand Thomas

Noah Benjamin Armand Thomas, son of Tristan and Jessica Thomas of Whitefish, was born Dec. 10 at North Valley Hospital.

Julian Wayne Long

Julian Wayne Long, son of Jay and Jenna Long of Whitefish, was born Dec. 9 at North Valley Hospital.

Harper Beverly Repnak

Harper Beverly Repnak, daughter of Cody and Amy Repnak, was born Nov. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Leila Rose Herzog

Leila Rose Herzog, daughter of Joshua and Misty Herzog of Kalispell, was born Dec. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ryker John Buls

Ryker John Buls, son of Justin and Krista Buls of Kalispell, was born Nov. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

McKale Anthony Disney

McKale Anthony Disney, son of Matthew and Kristi Disney of Kalispell, was born Nov. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

County fixes target of theft scheme

The Canyon Quick Response Unit, not the Three Rivers Emergency Medical Service, was the apparent victim of an embezzling scheme.

Community mosaic on display at City Hall

A community mosaic art project featuring an iconic display of Glacier National Park is on display at Kalispell City Hall.

Zachary Alan Taylor-Shepard

Zachary Alan Taylor-Shepard, son of Tyler Taylor-Shepard and Amber Boe of Kalispell, was born Nov. 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Tanin Kent James Roose

Tanin Kent James Roose, son of Joshua Roose and Miranda Aschenbrenner of Eureka, was born Dec. 8 at North Valley Hospital.

Kieran Jaymes Lincoln

Kieran Jaymes Lincoln, son of Joshua Lincoln and Joslynn Walker of Kalispell, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Emma Liberty Comes At Night

Emma Liberty Comes At Night, daughter of Emerald Comes At Night and Jacqueline Running Crane of Whitefish, was born Dec. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Kayden Robert Jones

Kayden Robert Jones, son of Kyrie Small of Kalispell, was born Dec. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Benjamin Zephyr Worthey

Benjamin Zephyr Worthey, son of Jesse Worthey and Heidi Felts of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Montana school coalition charting a new course

Now that the dust has settled, at least temporarily, on litigation between some school districts and the state of Montana, an organization that played a crucial role in the lawsuit is seeking a new direction.

Carver Edward Brown

Carver Edward Brown, son of Jeff and Tara Brown, was born Dec. 3 at North Valley Hospital.

Brystol Dolly Audette

Brystol Dolly Audette, daughter of Scott and Tiffany Audette of Fresno, Calif., was born Nov. 29 in Fresno.

Mirabelle Ann Gonzales

Mirabelle Ann Gonzales, daughter of Cote and Monica Gonzales of Kalispell, was born Dec. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Makynlee Rae Meyer

Makynlee Rae Meyer, daughter of Michael and Heather Meyer of Kalispell, was born Nov. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Randy L. Dawdy, 53

Randy L. Dawdy, 53, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2010.

2010: A year of loss, laughter

Every year, it is traditional to look forward at this time of year, with a wish for better life, better business, and a better outlook.

Whitefish's new ethics policy now ready for review

An expansive new ethics policy for the city of Whitefish is ready for review after being drafted by an ad hoc ethics and conflict of interest committee.

Trey Alan Larsen

Trey Alan Larsen, son of Jesse Larsen and Rachel Hartman of Bigfork, was born Dec. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Truck gets stuck on the tracks

The

Charlee Rae Kathleen Hanson

Charlee Rae Kathleen Hanson, daughter of Seth and Marianne Hanson, was born Nov. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Bentley August James Grafft

Bentley August James Grafft, son of Robert Grafft and Tara Berggren of Hungry Horse, was born Nov. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Bryson Garytt Brittsan

Bryson Garytt Brittsan, son of Benn Brittsan and Bryanne Hinsz of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Teen suffers skiing accident

A 16-year-old foreign exchange student from Germany was clinging to life Thursday after he was found unconscious Wednesday in a tree well at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Sierra Jayde Braga

Sierra Jayde Braga, daughter of Arthur and Letha Braga of Yaak, was born Dec. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kimberly Mae Owen

Kimberly Mae Owen, daughter of Ned and Laura Owen of Whitefish, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Centennial a success

Anniversary events help Glacier set visitor record

Glacier National Park’s centennial celebration was deemed a success by park officials, who said increased visitation led to increased recognition of the region’s cultural and natural history.

Evergreen Home Seeps Smoke From Rooftop

A home on Poplar Drive in Evergreen, drenched in red light from fire engine siren lights, is inspected by Evergreen firefighters on Thursday evening. The home's tenants were having trouble with their electrical breaker and smelled smoke, which was seen on the roof after they evacuated the building.

Off the road

news-i-choose iframe (dinterlake)

The mighty women of U. Conn.

Swearing in for County Officials

Keiden Westermeyer

Keiden Westermeyer, son of Justin Westermeyer and Keri Bruff, was born Nov. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Hadley Janae Leib

Hadley Janae Leib, daughter of Kassaundra Leib of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Trace Dale Uskoski

Trace Dale Uskoski, son of Jerrid and Jackie Uskoski of Kalispell, was born Nov. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

First local cases of influenza confirmed

 The Flathead City-County Health Department has confirmed through lab tests three cases of seasonal flu in the county as of Wednesday.

Addison Robin Brelje

Addison Robin Brelje, daughter of Riley and Dawn Brelje of Kalispell, was born Nov. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ina Leona West, 97

Ina Leona West, 97, died Dec. 25, 2010, at the home of her daughter in Whitefish.

There's a musical style here for everyone

Even if the musical acts on the bill for Kalispell’s 12th annual First Night Flathead aren’t household names, every household should be able to find a style of music its members can appreciate. 

Karen Lorraine Taylor, 57

Karen “left this earth to be Heaven’s Hairdresser” on Dec. 24, 2010, in Kalispell, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Claire Evelyn Cambre

Claire Evelyn Cambre, daughter of Jeff and Miriam Cambre of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kalispell high school board has opening

Kalispell Public Schools has an opening on its high school board of trustees.

Board selections cap bumpy year for county fair

Flathead County Fair Board member Ted Dykstra Jr., who served as interim fair manager for several months earlier this year, has stepped down from the Fair Board.

Bright spots shine despite schools' funding woes

2010 proved a tough year for school finances, but there were bright spots in classrooms throughout the year.

Payton Rae Gabbert

Payton Rae Gabbert, daughter of Nathan Gabbert and Mikala Woodworth of Kalispell, was born Nov. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ashlynn Jeanne Knoll

Ashlynn Jeanne Knoll, daughter of Luke and Marci Knoll of Kalispell, was born Nov. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Man charged with embezzlement

A 27-year-old Flathead County man has been charged with felony theft and official misconduct after allegedly embezzling more than $28,000 from Three Rivers Emergency Medical Service.

Avalanche class starts Monday

The Flathead National Forest and Glacier Country Avalanche Center offer a free avalanche awareness and safety training program beginning Monday, Jan. 3.  

Man threatens woman with snowblower

A

Braydon James Olson

Braydon James Olson, son of Adam and Hana Olson of Kalispell, was born Nov. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Brenneman tough act to follow

It’s not easy being a Democrat in Flathead County. Joe Brenneman can attest to that.

Voyage of the Shannon

Playing in the Snow

First Night Bands

Winter Storm in Kalispell

Should the Montana Legislature pass an Arizona-style law against illegal immigration?

Bar has surveillance tape of theft suspect

College enrollment surges to new high marks

Flathead Valley Community College continued its enrollment boom during 2010 and added new programs, a new logo and shared the national spotlight on community colleges.

There's still time to donate to fund drive

 If mailing your United Way pledge card got lost in the holiday excitement, there’s still time to give tax-deductible donations for 2010.

Brenneman proud of collaboration

Joe Brenneman doesn’t hesitate when asked what his biggest accomplishment has been during his six years as Flathead County commissioner.

Ethel Marie Hendrickson, 88

Ethel Marie Hendrickson, 88, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010, in Spokane, where she had lived the past six years.

Eldon John Frahm, 81

Eldon John Frahm, 81, “entered into rest” on Sunday, Dec. 26, 2010, at Whitefish Care and Rehab in Whitefish.

George 'Red' Hallas, 88

George “Red” Hallas “was called home to our Lord” on Dec. 25, 2010.

Four charged in casino robbery

Four young Flathead Valley residents have been charged with felonies related to a Nov. 20 casino robbery, a heist that involved boyfriends and girlfriends, a brother and sister and a woman who worked at the casino.

FVCC to train welders for Libby jobs

 At a recent board meeting, Flathead Valley Community College trustees were briefed on a new plan to train welders on the Libby campus for consideration for employment by Stinger Welding Inc.

Home for the Holidays

Event founder Broussard dies at 68 

Rebecca Broussard of Whitefish, a major figure in the world of equestrian eventing, died Friday from cancer. She was 68.

James 'Jim' Barry Nygaard, 59

James “Jim” Barry Nygaard “was called home to be with the Lord” at sunset on Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2010, at his daughter’s home in Kalispell.

Luella Mae (Flint) McFadden, 80

Luella Mae (Flint) McFadden, passed away peacefully at her home in Columbia Falls on Dec. 26, 2010.

Area wrestlers ranked in all-class poll

Connor Thomas of Flathead is the top-ranked heavyweight in the first All-Class High School Wrestling Poll released this season by the law firm of Hoyt and Blewett PLLC in Great Falls.

Daybook

Tuesday

Christine 'Chris' Ann Rupp, 59

Christine “Chris” Ann Rupp, 59, “was called home” on Tuesday, Dec. 21, 2010, after a long battle with illness, surrounded by her family, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

No bail for murder suspect

 The man accused of gunning down a woman and her daughter on Christmas Day in a driveway west of Kalispell will be held without bail after an initial appearance Monday in Flathead County District Court.

Hilda Faye Stidmon, 88

Hilda Faye Stidmon, 88, passed away on Friday, Dec. 24, 2010, at her current residence in Kalispell.

Evil stepmother report unfounded

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies determined that a report of an assault on Big Mountain Road by a 12-year-old girl was unfounded. The girl had accused her stepmother of attacking her, but it was later learned that the vacationing girl simply wanted to go back to her mother in Canada.

Family, friends remember shooting victims

One of the final photographs taken of 15-year-old Alyssa Burkett shows a girl with a broad smile standing next to a bed given to her by her grandfather as a Christmas gift.

Pilot/author produces children's book

Renowned Montana mountain pilot Dave Hoerner has come out with another book, only this time he’s going for a new audience: children.

Young man thrives in cafeteria job

Charlie Stafford was swimming in Griz gear.

Climbers survive night on park peak

Three Kalispell men survived Sunday night on the slopes of Glacier National Park’s Mount Brown, with the eventual help of a search team.

Dylan Michael Scott

Dylan Michael Scott, son of Michael and Danielle Scott of Kalispell, was born Nov. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Maddux Lyle Stow

Maddux Lyle Stow, son of Neil and Jordan Stow of Troy, was born Nov. 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Jayden Marie Richard

Jayden Marie Richard, daughter of Luke Richard and Lisa Street of Kalispell, was born Nov. 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Taryn Louise Schulte

Taryn Louise Schulte, daughter of Timber Schulte and Sommer Spady of Libby, was born Nov. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Henry James Hoppes

Henry James Hoppes, son of Tobin and Molly Hoppes of Whitefish, was born Nov. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Tyler Michael Miller

Jaimi Hurlbert

Christmas Day Homicide

Alyssa Burkett

Teen runs off after theft of drink

The Kalispell Police Department took a report at a business on U.S. 93 South where a teenage boy allegedly stole an energy drink.

College prepares for legislative session

Flathead Valley Community College is preparing for the 2011 Montana legislative session with a straightforward goal.

Sleigh rides a step back in time

It was one of those rare crystal-clear bluebird days at the Hanson ranch west of Marion as the Stutzman children piled into the sleigh, giddy at the prospect of a dash through the snow.

Hospitality defined Cockrell's life

Carol Cockrell, retiring executive director of Buffalo Hill Terrace, has a gift for making strangers feel like old friends. She knew immediately that the staff at the senior retirement community shared her gift.

Mom, daughter victims of fatal shooting

The victims of a Christmas Day double homicide west of Kalispell have been identified as a 35-year-old woman and her 15-year-old daughter by the Flathead County Sheriff's Office.

New Family Fun Center in a zone of its own

For several years, Amber Collier heard parents talk about how much the Flathead Valley needed a place for kids to congregate. They needed a safe place to play games with their friends and families.

Police respond to bar fight; brawlers gone

Transplant patient celebrates 20 years

'Every day a gift' for man who received transplant

Since Jim Waggener of Kalispell received a double-lung and heart transplant 20 years ago, it’s been Christmas every day.

America: Faith, hope and charity

For the past month, I have been revisiting the New Deal to see what lessons can be gleaned from it about American politics, but today I propose to shift gears a bit and see what the 1930s can teach us about the American people instead.

Is conservative mandate already derailed in Helena?

When Montana voters handed huge legislative majorities to the GOP this November, those elections carried a powerful conservative mandate. A mandate that was resonating across our nation.

Two die in holiday shooting

The Christmas Day shooting deaths of two people are under investigation by the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

A teenager's long journey of hope

Girl recovering from drastic illness

The entire house was asleep when Kelsey Fey awoke in the late afternoon. The children in the day care her mother, Michelle, operated from home were all down for a nap.

Shrine Game lists five local players

Travis Knoll, who helped Bigfork capture its first ever Class B state football championship last month, is one of five area players selected to participate in the 65th annual East-West Shrine Game next summer.

Men reported fighting

The Kalispell Police Department received a report of three men fighting in a parking lot near West Idaho Street. Officers were unable to locate any of the participants.

Girl plans first steps Christmas Day

After she was nearly completely paralyzed, doctors didn’t expect Kelsey Fey to start walking before March.

Hoarfrost in Lawrence Park

Man arrested in Billings charged with sex crimes

A 28-year-old man arrested in Billings on Wednesday has been charged in Flathead County District Court with two counts of sexual intercourse without consent for alleged crimes involving minors.

Colt Alexander Gress

Colt Alexander Gress, son of James and Mackenzie Gress of Kalispell, was born Nov. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Tavayah Korbyn Lee

Tavayah Korbyn Lee, daughter of Tim and Kristy Lee of Kalispell, was born Nov. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Field trimmed to seven for Senate post

The Lake County Commissioners have yet to receive the names of three finalists for a state Senate seat that opened up with the Nov. 29 resignation of John Brueggeman.

Mardean Tupper Bartleson, 69

A lunar eclipse during the full moon of the winter solstice only happens once in a lifetime. It is only fitting that someone as special as Mardean Tupper Bartleson “was called to the Lord’s side” in the company of her husband Rod, daughter Colleen, and cherished dog Pepper on such a night. She passed away at 9:11 p.m. on Dec. 20, 2010, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell, from colon cancer.

Longtime airport board member not reappointed by county

The Flathead County commissioners on Monday declined to reappoint longtime Flathead Municipal Airport Authority board member Tim Grattan to another term because he does not live in the Flathead Valley year-round and often attends board meetings via conference call or Skype.

Tate Steven Munger

Tate Steven Munger, son of Seth and Christy Munger of Kalispell, was born Nov. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

County OKs new travel policy

A new travel policy approved last week by the Flathead County commissioners better clarifies the reimbursement process for county employees who travel as part of their job, the commissioners and county department heads agree.

Henry Woodrow McCracken

Henry Woodrow McCracken, son of Aaron and Anna McCracken of Kalispell, was born Nov. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Greyson Parker Schwartz

Greyson Parker Schwartz, son of Brian and Heidi Schwartz of Kalispell, was born Nov. 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Couple's 'little ninja' born at 25 weeks

Jayden Marie Richard is a miracle baby — just in time for the holidays.

Man's home not really 'for rent'

The

Caleb Allan Wallace

Caleb Allan Wallace, son of Scott and Christine Wallace of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Angie Maria 'Marie' Galloway, 74

Angie Maria “Marie” Galloway, 74, passed away on Monday, Dec. 20, 2010, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell.

Messages from the pulpit for Christmas

Holiday sermons in area churches range from finding your way at Christmas to facing fear — with other variations of religious themes surrounding the birth of Jesus Christ.

Brock Nico Simonson

Brock Nico Simonson, son of Bo and Michelle Simonson of Kalispell, was born Nov. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

'The best people in the world'

It is customary at this time of year for editorialists to count not just their own blessings, but those of the community. Even in the bleakest of times, it seems the message of Christmas provides hope and good cheer.

Last Minute Christmas Shopping

North Fork zoning proposal rejected again

A zoning proposal to limit the size of extractive industries on private land in the North Fork has failed for a second time to win approval from the Flathead County commissioners.

Dock builder explains reason for EPA fine

A Lake County construction contractor recently fined for depositing materials in Flathead Lake says his offense was far less offensive than it sounds.

City gets $75,000 grant

The Kalispell City Council on Monday accepted a $75,000 National Park Service grant for promotion of the city’s historic downtown district.

Sexual assault suspect pleads innocent

A convicted sex offender pleaded innocent Wednesday to charges alleging he sexually assaulted a 5-year-old Kalispell boy.

Deputies seek ax-wielding man

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office is looking for a man who allegedly wielded an ax and displayed a firearm during an altercation outside a Somers bar Tuesday night.

Crack down on drunk drivers

The Montana Legislature will have an opportunity to tighten the state laws on “driving under the influence” in the coming session, and we hope this is one area where there will be bipartisan agreement that something needs to be done.

Woman needs to raise money for bone-marrow screening

Kay Seymour of Kalispell is searching for a bone-marrow donor — and donations to help find that donor.

Ice art

Loretta 'Marty' (Martin) Schwalk, 68

Loretta “Marty” (Martin) Schwalk, 68, of Columbia Falls passed away Dec. 19, 2010, from cancer.

Rollins man pleads innocent in bank caper

The Rollins man arrested after he allegedly joked about robbing a Lakeside bank pleaded innocent to criminal endangerment Wednesday in Flathead County District Court.

Virginia Mae (Roberts) O'Bleness, 83

Virginia Mae (Roberts) O’Bleness, 83, died Monday, Dec. 20, 2010, at her home in Libby, with her husband and family at her side.

Trail work gets boost from new equipment

Christmas has come early to the Bigfork Community Nordic Center.

Laura Khor

Zone Family Fun Center Cannon

Carol Cockrell

Zone Family Fun Center Throwing

Zone Family Fun Center Running

Zone Family Fun Center Looking

Zone Family Fun Center Preparing for Laser Tag

Zone Family Fun Center Laser Tag

Zone Family Fun Center Balls Fall

Zone Family Fun Center

Charlie Stafford Jokes

Charlie Stafford Gifts

Charlie Stafford Cleaning

Miracle Baby

2010 Year in Review - Sledding

2010 Year in Review

Kelsey Fey

2010 Year in Review - Becky Sturdevant

2010 Year in Review - Bigfork Football

2010 Year in Review - A Home of Their Own

2010 Year in Review - Veterans Memorial

2010 Year in Review - Horse Roundup

2010 Year in Review - Wild Goose Island

2010 Year in Review - Grizzly Downhill Race

2010 Year in Review - Pet Shop Fire

2010 Year in Review - Silhouetted Jump

2010 Year in Review - Mountain Goat at Logan Pass

2010 Year in Review - Missing Plane

2010 Year in Review - Walmart Opens

2010 Year in Review - Memorial Day

2010 Year in Review - Swing Dancing

2010 Year in Review - Bag Project

2010 Year in Review - Flathead High Basketball

2010 Year in Review - Horse Hug

2010 Year in Review - Fallen Hungry Horse Soldier Return

2010 Year in Review - Fly Fishing the South Fork

Waggener

Seymour Walking

Seymour Family

Joan Grant

Marion Sleigh Rides Prep

Marion Sleigh Rides

City puts off sewer increase vote until February

The Kalispell City Council on Monday put off until February a decision on a proposed 5-percent sewer rate increase.

County OKs addition to Herron Park

Flathead County’s popular Herron Park just got bigger.

Carrie Elizabeth McDonald, 49

Carrie Elizabeth McDonald, 49, died peacefully at home Dec. 17, 2010.

Ex-park superintendents call for more protections for Glacier, Waterton

A coalition of retired superintendents from Glacier National Park and neighboring Waterton Lakes National Park is calling for actions by both countries to finalize park protection actions that were advanced this year.

Incident at airport handled by security

The

Recruiter's passion makes her No. 1

Local soldier wins national recognition

A Kalispell soldier is the nation’s top recruiter for the Army National Guard this year.

Hospital expansion approved

An expansion plan for Kalispell Regional Medical Center received initial approval Monday.

Holiday display brightens up Main Street storefront

Something old and something new.

Flathead edges Polson in dual

It's not often in wrestling duals where it all comes down to one match, where the fate of a team rides on the shoulders of one athlete.

Sorensen's big night carries Bigfork boys

BIGFORK - Carter Sorensen's big night helped Bigfork get back in the win column on Tuesday.

Cynthia 'Cindy' Vey Pearce Russell, 56

Cynthia “Cindy” Vey Pearce Russell, 56, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 19, 2010, surrounded by her family at her home in Kalispell.

Wrestling: Flathead vs. Polson

Herron Park Landscape

Herron Park Expansion

Downtown Christmas Display

Army National Guard Top Recruiter

Referendum proposed to reject 'doughnut deal'

A referendum has been proposed to give Whitefish voters a chance to reject a recently revised city/county agreement on planning control of Whitefish’s two-mile planning “doughnut.”

Trevor Gage Schmeusser

Trevor Gage Schmeusser, son of Eric and Jessica Schmeusser of Kalispell, was born Nov. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

Juliet Abigail Skinner

Juliet Abigail Skinner, daughter of Aaron and Amanda Skinner of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 22 at North Valley Hospital.

Rose Crossing luminaria show won't shine this year

For the first time in decades, luminarias will not line Rose Crossing on Christmas Eve.

County OKs new zoning in Lakeside

Acknowledging a solid show of support from property owners, the Flathead County commissioners on Monday unanimously passed a resolution of intent to create a new lakefront zoning district in Lakeside.

Family unhappy with disparity in plea deals

The family of a 19-year-old woman sent to prison Thursday for tampering with evidence in a Kalispell murder case is criticizing the sentence because of an earlier plea agreement reached by another defendant.

Scott Simon Waters

Scott Simon Waters, son of Stephen and Emily Waters of Kalispell, was born Nov. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

Gordon Melville Genge, 85

After an exceptional life, Gordon passed peacefully, while surrounded by family in his home on Monday, Dec. 6, 2010, at the age of 85.

New Horizons Band open for members

The Flathead Valley New Horizons Band looked relaxed and sharp in matching black shirts and black slacks as they tuned up their instruments before playing at Kalispell Center Mall Thursday evening.

Ryli Christine Mitchell

Ryli Christine Mitchell, daughter of Ryan and Joni Mitchell of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

Assault sends woman to hospital

The Flathead County Sheriff’s office responded to a report of a man assaulting a woman in the Marion area Sunday, an incident that led to the woman being transferred to Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Details were unavailable, and the incident is still under investigation.

Cow elk fends off possible wolves in East Valley

Wolves in the Flathead Valley?

Joe Daniel Gamma, 52

Joe Daniel Gamma, 52, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 16, 2010, at Hidden Meadows Ranch near Ashley Lake.

Clive Dawson Schmidt

Clive Dawson Schmidt, son of David and Kathryn Schmidt of Whitefish, was born Nov. 25 at North Valley Hospital.

Daybook

Tuesday

Outlaw shuts down for renovation

Three-year hotel overhaul planned

Ronan rolls past Bigfork

BIGFORK - Ronan outscored Bigfork 44-27 in the second half for an 81-68 nonconference boys basketball victory on Monday night.

Study backs county's speed zone request on U.S. 2

Results from a state traffic study support Flathead County’s request to extend a 60 mph speed zone on U.S. 2 for another 5.3 miles west, from Batavia Road to just west of Kila Hill.

BNigfork Ronan Basketball Dejection

Bigfork Ronan Basketball Shot

Bigfork Ronan Basketball

Elk Herd near Columbia Falls Stage Road

Sheriff's Office corporal to be sentenced Jan. 28

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office corporal charged with driving under the influence of alcohol in August is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 28 in Kalispell Municipal Court.

Daybook

Couple keeps Kalispell police busy

A woman and a man were given a ride to their home in the 100 block of Nicklaus Avenue by

Ella Mae Heuscher, 86

Ella Mae Heuscher of Bigfork passed away surrounded by the love of her family at 7:20 p.m. Dec. 18, 2010.  

DivorceCare program offers nonjudgmental help

Going through a divorce isn’t easy, and that’s where DivorceCare comes in.

Whitefish Chamber director caps a busy first year

Natural born promoter

Kevin Gartland spent most of his life honing the skills he would need to lead a Chamber of Commerce in a ski town like Whitefish. He also spent nearly that long trying to get back to Montana.

Man denies assault, drug charges

The man accused of reaching for a loaded firearm and wrestling with a Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputy during a Nov. 22 traffic stop pleaded innocent to four charges Thursday in District Court.

Harvey N. Kaber, 88

Harvey N. Kaber, 88, passed away on Dec. 13, 2010, in Anaconda.

Lee Roy 'Hutch' Hutchins, 64

Lee Roy “Hutch” Hutchins was born in Kalispell on Feb. 21, 1946, to Robert and Velma (Anderson) Hutchins. Lee Roy received his education in Kalispell schools, graduating from Flathead High School in 1964. On July 17, 1965 he married his best friend, Linda Schwartz.

Father-daughter duo deck the halls

If John McGovern and his daughter Ciara visit your house or business, you may find yourself singing the tune “It’s Beginning to Look a lot Like Christmas.”

Paul Charles Brash, 49

Paul Charles Brash, 49, passed away Dec. 11, 2010, at his home in Columbia Falls after a long battle with diabetes.

Glacier boys win 2 swim relays at invitational swim meet

Wolfpack boys, girls 4th at invitational

GREAT FALLS - The Glacier boys won the 200 backstroke relay and 200 freestyle relay on Saturday at the Great Falls Invitational swim meet.

Penguins to the rescue

Kalispell Montessori students present a new breed of holiday hero in their annual

Snow Line has good year, fabled past

Tom Little, owner of Snow Line Tree Co., called 2010 a fairly good year for selling Christmas trees in an industry that was once a giant in the Flathead.

It's the wolf, stupid! Don't blame nameless predators

“More deer, elk might be available to hunters,” the headline said.

Drunk man chooses wrong house

Richard H. 'Dick' Williams, 75

Richard H. “Dick” Williams, 75, of Missoula, passed away at his home on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2010, after a courageous battle with cancer.

MatCats Buzz Lucey champs

C-Falls has 3 individual winners; Eureka’s Vaughn voted top wrestler

EUREKA - Columbia Falls had three champions and five third-place winners on Saturday as it cruised to the team title at the Buzz Lucey Memorial Wrestling Tournament in Eureka.

Peace on Earth found in the quiet moments

 When I think back to Christmases past, it’s not big celebrations that first come to mind. The memories I cherish are those slivers of quiet time, slipped in at the end of the night on Christmas Eve or at dawn on Christmas Day while everyone else was sleeping.

Braves 8th at Tri-State mat tourney

Libby’s Leir wins individual title at 140; FHS’ Francis 2nd at 160

COEUR d'ALENE, IDAHO - Not too shabby.

Major Banzet, don't insult the reserves

Being a retired military officer myself, I was interested in reading the reasoning behind Maj. Banzet’s “quitting” the military, as chronicled in the Sunday, Nov. 7, Inter Lake. However, some of his vague references made it difficult to understand who he was maligning.

Oscar H. Olson, 88

Oscar H. Olson, 88, a longtime resident of Kalispell, passed away Nov. 11, 2010, at Brookside Inn Nursing Home in Castle Rock, Colo.

Gun policies need to be re-aimed

After a week of public furor, the case of a young girl with a hunting rifle was resolved wisely by Columbia Falls school trustees.

Spartans pull away from Kats

COLUMBIA FALLS - It happened fast.

Boys hoops: Polson nips Whitefish; C-Falls edges Sentinel

POLSON - Louis Mohr tossed in 22 points and Kyle Bagnell finished with 15 as Polson cruised to a 76-54 Northwestern A boys basketball victory over Whitefish on Saturday.

County studies C.F. library funding

The First Best Place nonprofit group wants $268,000 in county funding to help relocate the Columbia Falls branch library to Glacier Discovery Square in downtown Columbia Falls.

Discipline methods vary for guns at school

Montana schools have had 79 reported violations in 3 years

When Demari DeReu was suspended from Columbia Falls High School for inadvertently bringing an unloaded hunting rifle to school, her case attracted national attention. Her expulsion hearing Monday drew a crowd of about 150 people.

Valkyries get back at Loyola

Charlebois, Knoll hit 13 points each in 59-48 win over Breakers

BIGFORK - Caitlin Charlebois and the Bigfork Valkyries might not say it, but they clearly remember a certain Saturday night from late last February.

Glacier third in Holiday Classic

GREAT FALLS - The Glacier Wolfpack wrestlers wound up third at the CMR Holiday Classic on Saturday.

New Deal? Many did dare call it socialism

Perhaps the most important lesson of Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal is what it reveals to us about the sweep and scope of history — and how easy it is to bury truth under the winds of change.

Bigfork Loyola Basketball

Jobless rate up another notch

Flathead County rate reaches 11.8 percent

The unemployment rate in Flathead County jumped a full percentage point in a month, reaching 11.8 percent in November, up from 10.8 percent in October.

Edwards, Chery lead Glacier boys

Glacier uses size advantage to fend off Great Falls High for first Class AA win of the season

Friday night was Ryan Edwards' night.

Glacier girls down Bison

GREAT FALLS - Homecomings are always nice, even when you have to beat your old team.

Waiting for a nibble

Teacher bridges language gap

Brent Benkelman is unique among Kalispell’s public school teachers.

Student project buys livestock for Third World

Kristyn Morin never goes looking for community service projects for her students, but somehow the projects always seem to find her.

Glacier grapplers tied for 3rd place

GREAT FALLS - The Glacier Wolfpack has three wrestlers headed to the semifinals and is currently tied for third place as a team at the CMR Holiday Classic.

Virginia Phoebe 'Ginnie' Collins, 84

Virginia Phoebe “Ginnie” Collins was born on Jan. 5, 1926, in Denton, Mont., to Charles DeVerdie and Mary Ellen (Parks) Collins. She “entered heaven” in the afternoon of Dec. 10, 2010. Her youngest daughter, Connie, and her niece, Patti Collins, were at her bedside. 

Three flee from shouting car owner

The

Glacier Great Falls High Basketball Shot

Glacier Great Falls High Basketball

Decorating Duo

Swan Mountains near Sunset

Soaring Dow: Analysts agree conditions in place for rally to continue

The Penguins Who Saved Christmas

Calif. on verge of major greenhouse gas rules

Man to be resentenced for shooting of woman

He was sentenced to 40 years in prison after killing a woman and then turning the shotgun on himself in an apparent suicide pact — now former Evergreen man Kenton Weimer is back in the Flathead County Detention Center.

Woman sentenced for cover-up

Moments before being sentenced in Flathead District Court Thursday, Karrolyn Robinson stood to address the family of Wesley Collins, a man whose murder she has admitted to covering up.

County approves new subdivision regulations

The Flathead County commissioners on Thursday approved new subdivision regulations.

Holidays mean bump in shipping activity

Packages and envelopes are whizzing through local post offices and shipping company warehouses at a record pace this year.

Man pleads guilty to investment scheme

A Kalispell man pleaded guilty Thursday in District Court to felony embezzlement and securities fraud related to a Ponzi scheme through which he bilked three people of nearly $200,000.

Blue lights signal law honors

More than 75 people attended a tree-lighting ceremony to memorialize fallen law enforcement officers Wednesday night in front of the Flathead County Courthouse.

Marcia Lorraine Mansfield Aaberg, 74

Marcia Lorraine Mansfield Aaberg, 74, died peacefully Dec. 11, 2010, at the Ocotillo House Adult Care Home in Tucson, Ariz., after an extended illness. Marcia loved her family, tole painting, sewing and RV traveling. She was an active church member, den mother and enjoyed being a "Red Hat."

Laura Ann Smith, 30

Laura Ann Smith, 30, of Moxee, Wash., passed away Oct. 14, 2010, in Seattle. She was born Aug. 21, 1980, in Olympia, Wash., to Leonard and Sharon Smith and spent her early childhood there. When she was 12, Laura moved to the Yakima Valley where she attended schools in Selah and Yakima, graduating from Eisenhower High School in 1999.

Tax deal not perfect, but necessary

The tax-cut deal between Senate Republicans and President Barack Obama is getting beat up from a lot of directions, but as unsavory as it may be in some respects, it is a pragmatic recognition that governance is often achieved through compromise.

Gladys Carolina (Dixon) Baier, 97

Gladys Carolina (Dixon) Baier, 97, died in Dyer, Ind., on Pearl Harbor Day, Dec. 7, 2010.

Strong second half leads Wildcats to win

It was a little sluggish at the start, but once the second half came around Columbia Falls performed like Wildcat teams usually do in December - nearly flawless.

Krueger breaks loose

Scores first double-double to help Bravettes down Columbia Falls, 52-41

It's been awhile since Flathead sophomore Cassie Krueger can remember having a game quite like that.

Columbia Falls at Flathead Basketball

Nuclear Treaty: U.S. and Russia to reduce nuclear arsenal

Obama to business leaders: How do we 'seize the promise of this moment'

War in Iraq: Country moves toward next chapter

Karrolyn Robinson

Divorce Care

County Commissioner Joe Brenneman

Seasonally High Volume at the Post Office

Montana C.O.P.S. Tree Lighting Prayer Service

USA v. BP: Obama administration sues companies over massive oil spill

Mark Zuckerberg: Facebook founder named Time's "Person of the Year"

Damon Lakai Heaps

Damon Lakai Heaps, son of Tim and Melissa Heaps of Kalispell, was born Nov. 10 at home.

Miles Allen Baker

Miles Allen Baker, son of Robert and Elizabeth Baker of Kalispell, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Sheila Leslie Burton, 65

Sheila Leslie Burton, loving wife, mother and grandmother, passed away peacefully at home with loved ones at her side after a long battle with ovarian cancer on Dec. 13, 2010.

Mildred Bauska, 88

Mildred Bauska, 88, of Missoula, passed away on Thursday, Dec. 9, 2010, at Community Medical Center in Missoula, of natural causes.

Mason Jae Nichols

Mason Jae Nichols, son of J.C. Nichols and Megan Russell of Whitefish, was born Nov. 9 at North Valley Hospital.

Clara Ann Ahner

Clara Ann Ahner, daughter of Travis and Mary Ahner of Kalispell, was born Nov. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Testing the public's patience

We can’t believe they did it again. Damn the torpedoes, damn the elections, damn the people, the U.S. Senate is forging ahead with a $1.2 trillion omnibus spending bill that is festooned with more than 6,000 earmarks, including one that amounts to the most significant legislation specifically affecting Montana in years.

Calie Jean Taylor

Calie Jean Taylor, daughter of Jared and Amanda Taylor of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Tristan James Johnson

Tristan James Johnson, son of Wyatt and Kelli Johnson of Bigfork, was born Nov. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Maren Marie Masters

Maren Marie Masters, daughter of Ben Masters and Sara Graf of Whitefish, was born Nov. 14 at North Valley Hospital.

Christmas with Mayor fundraiser coming up

Helping others in their time of need is the goal of the first-ever Christmas with the Mayor, a fundraising dinner with Kalispell Mayor Tammi Fisher.

Bag project

Camren Jacob Foster

Camren Jacob Foster, son of Jesse and Nicole Foster of Kalispell, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

AnnaLynn Rae Schreiner

AnnaLynn Rae Schreiner, daughter of Cody and Shila Schreiner of Lakeside, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Bram Steven Kumpula

Bram Steven Kumpula, son of Tom and Megan Kumpula of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 15 at North Valley Hospital.

High-tech screens get initial approval

New scoreboards planned for field, two gyms

A plan to install a high-tech video scoreboard at Legends Stadium took a step forward Tuesday night.

Carol Jean Rowe Hagen, 59

Carol Jean Rowe Hagen, 59, passed away peacefully at her home in Columbia Falls Dec. 9, 2010.

Local cities raise concerns about lost revenue

Replacing revenue from the state business equipment tax — if it’s eliminated— is a concern of Flathead Valley cities.

Jossalyn Elayne Hall

Jossalyn Elayne Hall, daughter of Tom Hall and Shanna Collison of Eureka, was born Nov. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Edna Elaine Conn, 94

Edna Elaine Conn, 94, passed away at North Valley Hospital on Tuesday, Dec. 14, 2010.

C. Lee Traylor, 70

Lee Traylor “began his journey into the next life” Dec. 14, 2010.

Ariel Addison LaRel Stevens

Ariel Addison LaRel Stevens, daughter of Dustin and Anita Stevens of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

School office making move

The County Superintendent of Schools Office will finish moving into its new office space today.

Starlette Dawn Wood

Starlette Dawn Wood, daughter of James and Michelle Wood of Kila, was born Nov. 9 at North Valley Hospital.

Kalispell store offers glass recycling option

Conservation-minded residents of the Flathead now can recycle their glass.

Fight leads to one arrest on warrant

Dennis Eugene Howard, 60

Dennis Eugene Howard, 60, passed away Dec. 12, 2010, at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle. 

Shop with a Cop

Glacier lodge owner may buy Grouse Mountain

Glacier Park Inc. is negotiating a possible purchase of Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, GPI's president and general manager confirmed Tuesday.

Jasmyn Starr Grilley-Hanson, 30

On Tuesday morning, Dec. 7, 2010, “the Lord was given another angel.” Jasmyn Starr Grilley-Hanson died as a result of a car accident in Elma, Wash.

New research effort based on drones

Ryan Zinke is trying to get a new industry off the ground - literally - in Montana.

Wildcats edge Pirates in dual

Columbia Falls wins 43-33; Polson rebounds against Whitefish

POLSON - Columbia Falls edged Polson in a tightly-contested Northwestern A wrestling dual on Tuesday.

2012 contest gets first candidate

The Daily Inter Lake

Griffith leads Wolfpack to comeback victory

LIBBY - Trey Griffith scored 15 points in the fourth quarter and Glacier rallied from a 10-point halftime deficit to beat Libby 49-46 in nonconference boys basketball on Tuesday night.

Hazel Marie (Ransch) Montgomery, 87

Hazel Marie (Ransch) Montgomery, 87, passed away on Dec. 9, 2010, at Grace House with her son and family in Austin, Texas.

Headlights lead to vehicle assault

Kalispell Police Department officers searched for a man who allegedly punched a window out of a woman's vehicle after she flashed her headlights at him on U.S. 2 West.

Man given 10-year term for drug offense

A federal judge in Missoula on Monday sentenced a 23-year-old Washington man to 10 years in prison for his role in a botched drug deal that ended in a bloody shootout west of Kalispell last year.

Joedy Byrd, 83

Joedy Byrd, 83, “left the bounds of this life to touch the hand of God.”

Farmers use hovering helicopters to save crops

Shop with a Cop

Offseason Cliff-hanger: Ace pitcher Cliff Lee returns to Phillies

2010 year in photos

Teacher Learns from Russian Students

Snowstorm causes Minneapolis stadium roof to cave

Cholera outbreak in Haiti: Disease death toll has surpassed 2,000

2010 the busiest year for park visitors

Glacier National Park’s Centennial year has turned out to be the busiest ever for park visitation.

Columbia Falls girl back in school

The Columbia Falls High School junior who inadvertently brought a rifle to school is back in class today after school board trustees voted not to expel her.

Robert A.C. Bonsor, 47

Robert A.C. Bonsor passed away on Dec. 12, 2010, in Kalispell, at age 47. He was born in London on Feb. 14, 1963, and his formative years were in Berkshire, England.

Hungry Horse pursuit leads to numerous charges

After a short pursuit in the Hungry Horse area at around 2 a.m. Monday, Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies arrested a man, 53, on a variety of charges: failure to stop, driving under the influence, driving with a suspended or revoked license, no registration, no insurance and a contempt warrant.

Wolverine protection 'warranted but precluded'

Wolverines in the lower 48 states warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act, but they are “precluded” from a listing because other species have a higher priority, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced Monday.

Mary Elizabeth 'Bette' Boyd Kelley, 91

At age 91, Mary Elizabeth “Bette” Boyd Kelley “went home to be with the Lord” on Friday, Dec. 10, 2010.

Record rain falls on Sunday

Northwest Montana’s snowy weather turned to slush on Sunday with a record-breaking rainy day.

'Doughnut' intervenors want court ruling

As promised, the intervenors in the city of Whitefish’s lawsuit against Flathead County over control of Whitefish’s two-mile planning “doughnut” have asked Flathead District Court Judge Katherine Curtis to rule on the merits of the lawsuit.

Daybook

Today

Sheila Couper Buck, 86

Sheila Couper Buck, 86, passed away Saturday, Dec. 11, 2010, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Owners recover pets left in travel trailer

Rance and Christina Castle, owners of the four dogs and five cats that got loose at ShopKo last week, said they love their pets and don’t want people to think they abandoned them.

Afghanistan war: Nine years after invasion, victory continues to elude coalition

Golden eagles keep windfarm projects grounded

Columbia Falls High School Expulsion Hearing

Cruel and unusual punishment: International outcry over Iranian stoning sentence

Toughness amid tradegy: Edwards showed strength in face of cancer, betrayal

Snow Line Tree Company

Northridge Lutheran Advent Vespers

Montana Notary of the Year

Public school problems: Poll blames parents much more than educators

Elizabeth Smart's abductor found guilty: Brian David Mitchell may get life term

promo block position code

Swing Out the Season

Sweden bombings: Stockholm area stunned by act of terror

Expulsion hearing moved to hold crowd

An expulsion hearing for a Columbia Falls High School junior who inadvertently brought a gun to school has been moved.

Glacier speech wins Billings meet

Buoyed by first-place finishes in four events, Glacier High School’s speech and debate team walked away the champions of the Billings Olympiad Tournament over the weekend.

C. Falls tops at Whitefish meet

Columbia Falls High School’s speech and debate team cleaned up at this weekend’s Whitefish Speech, Debate and Drama Tournament.

Family's 1000-acre conservation easement deemed 'priceless'

The Louden family has given the Flathead Land Trust the best holiday gift in recent memory — more than 1,000 acres of riverfront farmland as a conservation easement.

Daybook

Recreation leader oversees diverse programs

Jennifer Young loves to recreate, and that’s a big plus in her job.

Game plan emerges for update of growth plan

The Flathead County commissioners on Thursday gave the nod to begin updating the 2007 County Growth Policy.

Subdivision rules ready for final review

Finalizing subdivision regulations for Flathead County has been a long, tedious process, but a Dec. 16 public hearing could give the county an early Christmas present.

Crash leads to woman's arrest

Dogs, cats claw their way to freedom

A trailer was discovered in the ShopKo parking lot in Evergreen on Thursday that apparently had been abandoned with four dogs and five cats inside.

Effort to rescind growth policy stalls

A push by the American Dream Montana property-rights group to get a ballot referendum to repeal the Flathead County Growth Policy has stalled, at least for now.

Let's rethink airport security

Maybe the clamor in the news has quieted down, and maybe the Transportation Security Administration can claim it is doing a good job of keeping air travel safe, but the problems associated with the country’s new security regime are myriad, deserving continued scorn and demands for changes.

Retta Mae Powell, 92

Retta Mae Powell, 92, “left the bounds of this life to touch the hand of God,” at Heritage Place in Kalispell, surrounded by her loving family members; daughter, Jean Hedger; granddaughter, Lindsay Hedger, son, Terry Powell; sister, Mrs. Joseph Wagoner; and niece, Mrs. Rud Knudsen.

Was U.S. shuffled into socialism by New Deal?

Last week, I explored the notion that perhaps — just perhaps — Franklin Roosevelt’s New Deal was part of a larger plan to detour the United States into socialism.

Toy store enterprise finds local niche

Fifteen years after they ventured into something completely new, the owners of the two Imagination Station Toys stores in Flathead County freely admit they didn’t know what they were doing at the time.

Board supports North Fork setback change

Prohibiting temporary structures from the setback area in the North Fork got a positive recommendation from the Flathead County Planning Board Wednesday night.

Braves wind up second at Butte ; Glacier downs Blue Ponies for third

BUTTE - Two long days. Seven duals. A ton of tough teams.

Glacier rally falls short versus CMR

Kris Salonen has a big hole to fill in the Glacier Wolfpack starting lineup, but the head coach had a few girls turn in good auditions on Saturday afternoon.

FHS rolls past Bison

As far as season openers go, not too bad.

Mountains of fun

Flathead Valley ski areas open to great snow and appreciative crowds of skiers and snowboarders.

Pauline Urban-Bedrin, 63

Pauline Urban-Bedrin, 63, passed away Dec. 9, 2010, at her home in Kalispell, amidst family. 

Flathead vs. Great Falls

Glacier vs. CMR

21st Annual Christmas at Our House

Young parents connect at special class

Once a week, a handful of students at Kalispell’s alternative high schools find support they can’t get anywhere else.

Lake-trout netting study delayed

A draft environmental review for a lake trout netting project on Flathead Lake has been delayed but should be released sometime this winter, an official with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes said Thursday.

Daybook

Some neighbors not happy with new cell tower

Kidnapper sentenced to five years

A Flathead County man accused of kidnapping and holding a man at gunpoint following a botched drug deal was sentenced to five years in the Montana State Department of Corrections.

Weapons reported stolen to sheriff's office

The

Tip-off: Bigfork saves day for Northwestern A

HAMILTON - It was a very long day for Northwestern A's girls basketball teams at the Western A Tip-off Tournament on Friday.

Blacktail Ski Mountain Opening Day

Strong start for NWA boys basketball

CORVALLIS - Judging by first impressions, Northwestern A is going to be quite the contentious league in boys basketball this season.

Blacktail Ski Mountain Strapping In

Blacktail Ski Mountain Boarding

Nine pets abandoned in trailer

Abandoned pets

Dogs, cats claw their way to freedom

Gays in the military: Legal, political battles over "don't ask, don't tell"

Fire official pleads not guilty to theft

A former Hungry Horse Fire Department official Thursday pleaded not guilty to charges alleging he used his position to bilk the district of about $2,600.

Bonners Ferry pins Libby

LIBBY - Bonners Ferry picked up three pins and two forfeits as it eked out a 41-33 wrestling dual victory over host Libby on Thursday night.

Key stats improve for Flathead children

Despite the struggling economy, Flathead County’s children were slightly better off in 2009 than they were a decade ago, according to information from the University of Montana.

Snowball throwers prompt cop call

The

Moving in

Flathead legislators take lead in Helena

Every state senator and several House members in the Flathead Valley’s legislative delegation landed key chairman positions in committee assignments that were announced Wednesday.

Don't let feds dictate gun rules

There’s probably no better example of how a “one-size-fits-all” federal policy does not work than the opprobrious law that tells Montana schools what gun policies they shall adopt and enforce.

Six Wildcats named all-state

Six Columbia Falls Wildcats made the Class A all-state football team.

Expulsion unlikely in school gun case

The story of a Columbia Falls High School junior who was suspended after inadvertently bringing an unloaded gun to school has attracted national attention — and, school officials say, has been blown out of proportion.

Glacier dumps Sentinel

MISSOULA - Six pins, a major decision and a forfeit.

Mountain lion that killed cats put down

A cat-killing mountain lion was dispatched by state wildlife officials Thursday morning on a Whitefish Stage Road property just a few miles north of Kalispell.

Line Dancing in Whitefish

DMV at New Location

Imagination Station

Whitefish Mountain Resort at Big Mountain Chair Lift

Voices raised: Nobel honor draws awareness to China's activist's plight

Louden Conservation Easement

Should Columbia Falls School District follow federal guidelines and expel a student who brought a hunting rifle to school in her vehicle's locked trunk?

Flathead/Glacier Annual Fruit Sale

Big names in the big house: Celebrities with prison records

Soap operas: Washed away by social media

Oliver James Eklund

Oliver James Eklund, son of Scott and Carrie Eklund of Somers, was born Oct. 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Madelynn Paige Lougheed

Madelynn Paige Lougheed, daughter of Ryan and Kayla Lougheed of Kalispell, was born Nov. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Center offers array of help for veterans

The estimated 40,000 combat veterans in Western Montana have another option for counseling services.

Jackson Gregory Febbo

Jackson Gregory Febbo, son of Greg Febbo and Angela Marvin of Kalispell, was born Oct. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

William T. Savage

At 2:30 p.m., Saturday Nov. 27, 2010, “Bill,” a wonderful man, passed away peacefully at home with his family at his side.

Anwyn Michone Bradley

Anwyn Michone Bradley, daughter of Douglas and Heather Bradley of Kalispell, was born Oct. 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Effie Enneberg Cato, 76

Effie Enneberg Cato “entered eternal rest” on Dec. 6, 2010, at her home in Garden Ridge, Texas.

Leland Clarence Lesmeister

Leland Clarence Lesmeister, son of Joseph and Amanda Lesmeister of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Daybook

Today

Man freezes to death inside car

A Columbia Falls man living in his car was found frozen to death early Monday morning.

Ellyse Ann Vickhammer

Ellyse Ann Vickhammer, daughter of Todd and Jenny Vickhammer of Kalispell, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Silvia Ann Macfarlane

Silvia Ann Macfarlane, daughter of Arliss and Elisabet Macfarlane of Kalispell, was born Nov. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

County offices begin move this week

Several Flathead County departments will begin moving this week from temporary quarters in the Earl Bennett Building to refurbished office space in the former Blue Building now known as Courthouse West.

Mason Thomas Dolly

Mason Thomas Dolly, son of Paul and Melissa Dolly of Bigfork, was born Nov. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Maybe Congress didn't get the message

The Senate voted to continue allowing earmarks in the next session of Congress, which makes us think perhaps some of our elected representatives are wearing soundproof earmuffs.

Brander Hayes Christianson

Brander Hayes Christianson, son of Eric and Lynsee Christianson of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Phyllis Virginia Mitchell, 74

Our loving and much-loved mom, Phyllis Virginia Mitchell, passed away the evening of Dec. 4, 2010, at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula.  

Columbia Falls works to reinstate youth curfew

Northwest MontanaNews Network

Adeline Elizabeth Aiken

Adeline Elizabeth Aiken, daughter of Alex and Annie Aiken of Kalispell, was born Oct. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Teens arrested for multiple car break-ins

Enjoy annual Christmas at our House on Saturday

Everyone is invited to the 21st annual Christmas At Our House, a community dinner on Saturday, Dec. 11, at the Kalispell Armed Forces Reserve Center, located at 2989 U.S. 93 N.

Ryker Raye McAnally

Ryker Raye McAnally, son of Leslie and Tanya McAnally of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Long road to peace: Searching for a resolution in the Middle East

Laser School Parenting Class

Laser School Parenting Class Sharing

Jenny Young

Kalispell Vet Center

Head games: Concussion crisis in football

Adeline Elizabeth Aiken

Adeline Elizabeth Aiken, daughter of Alex and Annie Aiken of Kalispell, was born Oct. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

William Oskar Cox

William Oskar Cox, son of Sam and Alisa Cox of Kalispell, was born Oct. 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ellyse Ann Vickhammer

Ellyse Ann Vickhammer, daughter of Todd and Jenny Vickhammer of Kalispell, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Camden Michael Atwill Newman

Camden Michael Atwill Newman, son of Chris and Laura Newman of Kalispell, was born Oct. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Bank joke lands man in county jail

A 48-year-old Rollins man has been charged with felony criminal endangerment after he allegedly joked about robbing a Lakeside bank — the same bank where a real robbery occurred in November.

Amy Marie Wilbur, 26

Amy was born Jan. 31, 1984, at Providence St. Vincent Hospital, Portland, and died on Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital in Libby, due to complications associated with a five-year battle with double kidney failure. Amy was 26 years old.

City to use mix of cash, bonds to buy vehicles

The Kalispell City Council decided Monday to use bonding and cash to pay for three new police vehicles and parks and forestry equipment.

Girl runs afoul of gun rules

A Columbia Falls High School student was suspended last week after inadvertently bringing a hunting rifle to school.

Madden Aaron Carrier

Madden Aaron Carrier, son of Courtney and Jennifer Carrier of Lakeside, was born Oct. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Jackson Gregory Febbo

Jackson Gregory Febbo, son of Greg Febbo and Angela Marvin of Kalispell, was born Oct. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Brander Hayes Christianson

Brander Hayes Christianson, son of Eric and Lynsee Christianson of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Loggers dump Eureka

LIBBY - Kelly May scored 21 points and Alex Cislo contributed 17 as the Libby Loggers rolled past Eureka 75-50 in a nonconference boys basketball game on Tuesday.

Cannon James Blanchard

Cannon James Blanchard, son of Derek and Heather Blanchard of Kalispell, was born Oct. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Felicity Marie Borsch

Felicity Marie Borsch, daughter of Larry Borsch and Katrina Shanahan of Kalispell, was born Oct. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Trentin Andrew Lien

Trentin Andrew Lien, son of Griffin and Nicole Lien of Kalispell, was born Oct. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Burned boy returning from Seattle

A 2-year-old boy burned in a mobile home fire Friday night in Hungry Horse was headed home Tuesday.

Trooper's memorial

Greyson Justice Lane Brubaker

Greyson Justice Lane Brubaker, son of Tyler Brubaker aand Rachel O’Brien of Kalispell, was born Oct. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lodge faces new questioning before planning board

A new lodge that opened in West Glacier this past summer once again is going before the Flathead County Planning Board.

Woman arrested for assault with scissors

Eli James Harris-Wehrman

Eli James Harris-Wehrman, son of Christopher Wehrman and T. Marie Harris of Kalispell, was born Oct. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ryder James Tucker

Ryder James Tucker, son of Craig Tucker and Kristin Hall of Kalispell, was born Oct. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Boston James Jackson

Boston James Jackson, son of Philip and Stephanie Jackson of Kalispell, was born Oct. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ryker Raye McAnally

Ryker Raye McAnally, son of Leslie and Tanya McAnally of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Beau Dean Carlson

Beau Dean Carlson, son of Lanti and Angie Carlson of Kila, was born Oct. 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Slade Boden Anderson

Slade Boden Anderson, son of Isaac and Dawn Ann Anderson of Kalispell, was born Oct. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Gage Patrick Thibert

Gage Patrick Thibert, son of Don and Molly Thibert of Kalispell, was born Oct. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Thousands mourn fallen trooper

Overflow crowd honors young trooper slain in line of duty

Kevin Gartland profile

Rocky Mountain Rhythm Kings

Perched Bald Eagle

Heisman hopefuls: Finalists in the hunt for college football's elite award

Elizabeth Edwards: Estranged wife of John Edwards gravely ill

Derek Jeter: Yankees finalize new deal with team captain

Glacier, Flathead finish 1-2 at Corvallis meet

Glacier High School cruised to victory at the Corvallis Invitational Speech, Debate and Drama Tournament over the weekend, outdistancing second-place Flathead High School by 69 points.

Portraits for needy bring smiles to subjects, photographers

Clutching a freshly printed, framed 5-by-7-inch portrait, Cliff Kirkendall stood in the hallway of the Samaritan House building with a smile bigger than the one he mustered for the photo.

Daybook

Tuesday

Tot burned in Hungry Horse fire

A 2-year-old boy was badly burned in a fire that destroyed a mobile home Friday evening in Hungry Horse.

Couple's dispute mars Cooperative Way

Flathead County Sheriff’s Office responded to a verbal dispute on Cooperative Way early Monday. A husband wanted his wife to leave his home but she wanted to sleep. Officers gave her a ride to another location.

Gay Marriage: How states have addressed the issue

U.S. Supreme Court: Major cases in the 2010-11 term

Week in Pictures November 29 - December 5

Help-Portrait

Help-Portrait Photo

Do you favor the effort to reach a compromise to extend the Bush tax cuts?

Robert Bobby Noble

Robert Emanuel Noble, 44, passed away in Lewistown on Saturday, Dec. 4, 2010, due to complications of a brain tumor. He was born in Ronan, Dec. 30, 1965, the son of Bob and Bea Noble. He attended school in Arlee and graduated from high school there. He married Jackie Moran and later divorced. They had a son, Cole Cash Noble. He had a special stepdaughter, Alyssa Moran. Bobby was known by many friends in the horse racing industry as both trainer and working the gates. He worked with his dad and brother, Brad, in the Bob Marshall wilderness as a packer and guide. He was a dedicated father. He always had a smile on his face and was a friend to many. Bobby is survived by his son, Cole, 16, of Ronan; parents, Bob and Bea Noble, of Ronan; and brother, Brad Noble, of Ronan. He has many special cousins, among them his closest were Stacy, Chad and Lauriel; as well as numerous aunts and uncles to whom he was very close. There will be a private family viewing and cremation will take place. A memorial service will take place later in the spring.

Claudia P. Higson, 85

Claudia P. Higson, 85, passed away at Mountain View Nursing Home on Nov. 28, 2010, after a brief illness. She was born on May 12, 1925, to Tom and Alice Price and graduated from Lincoln County High School in Eureka. In 1943, she worked in ship yards in Oregon as a welder inspector. Moving to Salinas, Calif., after World War II she worked in the prosecutor s office and later moved to Davenport, Wash., where she drove logging trucks. In 1952, Claudia moved to Columbia Falls, working several years for the U.S. Postal Service, then 20-plus years with Melby s Flathead Furniture. After retirement she decided to move back to her hometown of Eureka. Claudia was married to Bob Higson of Columbia Falls, and later divorced. She is survived by a brother, Tom Price, of Eureka; and was preceded in death by a sister and her parents. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Dec. 11, at Lady of Mercy Catholic Church with the Rev. Patti Ann Bennett, who is rector of St. Michael and All Angels Episcopal Church. Burial will be at a later date, but immediately after the service, lunch will be served at the Senior Citizens Center, Eureka. Claudia loved pinochle and was a hard-core advocate for animals. In lieu of flowers the family suggests donations go to the Friends of the Shelter, P.O. Box 333, Eureka, MT 59917.

Betty Lou Reksten, 86

Betty Lou Reksten, 86, died Friday, Dec. 3, 2010, after an extended illness. Born Betty Lou Koehler in Salt Lake City in 1924, she lived in many states before her parents, Louise and Paul, settled in Polson. She graduated from Thompson Falls High School and worked for the Pasadena, Calif., police department before returning to Montana. She married Don Reksten in 1949. She loved bowling and playing bridge, pinochle and bingo. Her husband died in 2002. She is survived by three children, Vicki Haker of Berlin, Patty Reksten of Portland, and Donald Reksten of Kalispell. She also has grandchildren living in Los Angeles, Seattle and Portland. At her request, there will be no service.

Variance may decide long-running mural battle

The fight over an ice-cream-cone sign may be over tonight as the Whitefish City Council considers a variance to allow Mrs. Spoonover’s restaurant to keep its beloved mural.

Former Whitefish man shepherds Capitol tree

Justin Kaber, a 1999 graduate of Whitefish High School, received the Forest Service assignment of a lifetime shepherding the 2010 Capitol Christmas Tree to Washington, D.C.

Christian cyclist still rolling, learning at 85

Charles Barrow, a lean and healthy 85, likes to say that he doesn’t have time to sit down and die.

Capitol Christmas Tree

Daybook

Charles Barrow

Police arrest sleepy teenage girl

AP Investigation: Foreign student visa program rife with abuse

Mary Louise Harner, 84

Mary Louise Harner, 84, of Columbia Falls, died Nov. 30, 2010, at the Whitefish Care & Rehabilitation Center. She was born on May 5, 1925, in Carrington, N.D., to William and Maude Reuter. Mary Louise received her nursing degree from Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane in 1947. While a student at Sacred Heart Hospital, she met her husband, Robert C. Harner, who had been recently discharged from the U.S. Air Force with a Purple Heart. They were married on June 3, 1947, at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Spokane. That same year, they moved to Kalispell, where Mary Louise began her nursing career at Kalispell General Hospital. In 1949, Mary Louise and Bob moved to Coram when Bob began employment with the Bureau of Reclamation. Mary Louise continued her nursing career at the Hungry Horse Clinic. In 1965, Mary Louise and Bob purchased and moved to property located near Columbia Falls. Mary Louise continued to work as a nurse for private physicians in Flathead County until she retired as an office nurse for Dr. Carlson in Columbia Falls in 1979. She enjoyed knitting and crocheting, gardening and spending summer weekends entertaining family and friends with her husband at their cabin on Echo Lake. After retirement, Mary Louise and Bob spent their winters in California and Arizona, returning to their home near Columbia Falls every spring. Mary Louise was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Steven R. Harner, in August, 2000; and her husband, Robert, in August, 2004. Mary Louise is survived by her daughter, Cheryl L. Harner of Gilroy, Calif. Funeral services will be held for Mary Louise at 10 a.m. Dec. 7, at Saint Richard s Catholic Church in Columbia Falls. Burial will follow at Woodlawn Cemetery. Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls is assisting the family.

Splashing start for Glacier boys make big splash in opener

Glacier opened the high school swim season with an impressive performance on Saturday at The Summit pool.

Whitefish struggling with drop in projects

Among Flathead County’s three incorporated cities, Whitefish has faced the biggest cutbacks in the planning arena.

Flathead stomps Butte

BUTTE - It wasn't the best start, but the Flathead Braves will take the end result any day of the week.

Big day at Big Mountain

Fired-up Glacier manhandles Dogs

BUTTE - The Glacier Wolfpack recorded eight pins en route to a 60-27 dual win Friday over host Butte.

Christian Center musical 'The Christmas Post' delivers a message of faith in hard times

For many cast members of Christian Center’s Christmas musical, “The Christmas Post,” the line between fiction and real life has been razor thin.

Complaint dismissed in Lake Co. sheriff's race

The most recent complaint filed in the Lake County sheriff’s race has been dismissed because of a jurisdictional issue.

Braves, Wolfpack rule tourney

POLSON - Kalispell wrestling is doing just fine, thank you very much.

There's snow place like home

You can sing along to the tune of that popular Christmas song as I say to my chagrin that “It’s beginning to look a lot like ... the winter of 1996-97.”

Cutbacks hit county Planning Office again

Fee revenue drops 89 percent in four years

Faced with a projected shortfall of $52,000 in planning-fee income by the end of the fiscal year next June, the Flathead County Planning Office has laid off another planner and is faced with further belt tightening as a construction slump continues.

'Non-state-sponsored spying'

Throughout its history, the United States has gone all-out to obfuscate, disrupt, infiltrate and intercept the activities of spy agencies from other countries hostile to our interests. WikiLeaks, the online enterprise that has been maliciously dumping classified documents on the Internet, should be treated the same.

Cats, Chiefs start strong

COLUMBIA FALLS - A good start. 

Woman crashes car, arrested on two charges

Obama, FDR and the myth of 'permanent plenty'

A few readers took umbrage to my column last week in which I quoted some newspaper articles from the 1960s that found fault with Social Security.

Lester Wayne Swede Herbold, 84

Lester Wayne Swede Herbold, 84, died Monday, Nov. 29, 2010, at his home in Stanford. Lester was born Sept. 26, 1926, in Benchland, to William and Mary (L Agivine) Herbold. He graduated from Grass Range High School. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1943 until 1946. On Nov. 14, 1947, in Billings, he was united in marriage to Lois Finkbeiner. She preceded him in death in 2000. He worked for Tindall Construction as a cat skinner; Fergus County Road Department; and as a section foreman for the Montana Highway Department, from which he retired. Swede served on the Stanford City Council, the Boy Scouts, Rod and Gun Club, was a member of the Masonic Lodge and Eastern Star (50 years), VFW and American Legion. He enjoyed coin collecting, hunting, fishing, camping and storytelling. Survivors include a daughter, Leslie, and Jim DeWitt, of Kalispell, and two sons, Dennis Herbold of Stanford, and Joe and Charlotte Herbold of Jordan; five grandchildren, Heidi and Kevin Rendina, Cassandra DeWitt, all of Kalispell, Charity DeWitt of Somers, and Hayley Herbold and Heath Herbold, both of Jordan; and three great-grandchildren, Brendan, Brianna and Jake Rendina. He is also survived by five sisters, Billie and Jerry Bonner of Eureka, Bebe Swan of Eureka, Karen Emerson of Kalispell, Janet and Gary Rose of Kalispell, and June O Connor of Eureka; and two brothers Mervin and Bonnie Herbold of Kalispell, and Richard Herbold of Olney; and numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Lois; a sister, Joan; brothers, Bill, Leonard and Jack; and his parents. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7, at the Creel Funeral Chapel in Lewistown. Inurnment with military honors will follow at Lewistown City Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Hospice of Central Montana, 408 Wendell Ave., Lewistown, Mont. 59457. Creel Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Baucus touts bill to reduce taxes

Sen. Max Baucus, D-Mont., has introduced a bill aimed at cutting taxes for middle-class families with breaks for businesses and estate tax reform provisions.

Ex accused of damaging boiler

The

Immanuel Lutheran begins $14 million project

Immanuel Lutheran Communities of Kalispell has begun site preparation for a $14 million project including a state-of-the-art rehabilitation center for therapy and recuperation following hospitalization or surgery.

Bags of joy

Cayuse stages show to show off new gym

Something will happen on Tuesday that has not happened at Cayuse Prairie School for years.

Whooping cough confirmed in Flathead Valley

Flathead City-County Health Department officials announced Thursday that four cases of pertussis or whooping cough have been confirmed in Flathead County in unvaccinated adults.

Columbia Falls Ronan Wrestling

"Don't ask, don't tell" report: Considering repeal

Cayuse Prairie New Gym

Budget gap: At least 39 states anticipate shortfalls

TeleTech Toys

wide_in_story

Unfinished business: Congress faces full plate in 'lame duck' session

Florence Russell, 88

Florence Russell, 88, passed away on Wednesday, Dec. 1, 2010, at Brendan House in Kalispell. Florence was born on Feb. 19, 1922, in Lynn, Mass., to Joseph and Kamila (Toczylowski) Walendowicz. She was raised in Massachusetts, where she attended schools, learning hair dressing and cosmetology. Florence married Herbert Russell in 1942. She worked for years as a cosmetologist and hairdresser. She was president of Image Art 3, a family business specializing in jewelry and craft creations. Florence worked as a Kalispell Regional Medical Center volunteer for many years. She was on several committees at Risen Christ Catholic Parish. She enjoyed decorating the church and caring for the greenery, as well as hosting prayer groups. She loved camping, traveling, cooking, rug hooking, knitting, and just making people happy. She was an excellent cook. Her biggest interest was being a wife and fun partner to her husband Herbie. Florence was preceded in death by her parents, Kamila and Joseph Walendowicz; and two sisters, Sabina and Anatasia. She is survived by her husband, Herbert Russell; daughter and son-in-law, Sharon and Ron Holden, of Missoula; daughter and son-in-law, Camille and Ron Scott, of Forks, Wash.; and granddaughter, Kacey Scott, and Aaron Gibson of Kalispell. A rosary will be said at 7 p.m. today, Dec. 3, at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 4, at St. Matthew s Catholic Church in Kalispell. The family requests donations be made in Florence's name to Brendan House, for the flower garden. You are invited to go to www.buffalohillfh.com, to leave a message or sign Florence s book.

Violet Saimo, 76

Violet Saimo, 76, of Missoula, passed away Nov. 30, 2010, at Village Health Care Center, due to complications from Wegner's disease. She passed away peacefully in the arms of her sister, Cleo Keenan. She was a great woman who fought to the end. She was born on May 13, 1934, in Columbia Falls, the daughter of Flossie (Blades) and Richard Brunette. She attended schools in Columbia Falls, Kalispell and Phillipsburg. She had two sons and two daughters from a previous marriage. She worked at various positions in Polson, where she met her beloved husband, Mitz Saimo. They were married in Polson on May 9, 1969. She enjoyed gardening, shopping and traveled to Hawaii three times, the Grand Canyon, Zion, Disneyland, Hearst Castle, Cannon Beach, Yellowstone and Glacier Parks, and San Diego. She also liked visiting relatives in Powell, Wyo., Cottonwood, Ariz., Seattle, Kalispell, Whitefish and Livingston. She will be greatly missed by all of her wonderful friends. Violet is survived by her husband, Mitz, of Missoula; sons, Randy Larson of Sydney, and Loyd of Missoula; daughters, Rhonda Larson Reardon and Valerie Larson, both of Missoula; sisters, Cleo Keenan and Dorothy Wigen, both of Missoula, Duskie Dwelle of Dayton, and Dixie Witt of Oregon; granddaughters, Angie Reardon of Whitefish, Lauren Larson of Helena, Rainy and Brian Naylor, Amanda and Omar Hernandez and Kera Mandala; grandsons, Shawn Reardon of Kalispell, and Leon Larson of Helena; great-granddaughter, Jordan Johnson of Whitefish; and great-grandsons, David, Joseph and Owen. She was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, Gene and Bill; sister, Shirley; and a son-in-law, Joey Mandala. Viewing will be from 3 to 7 p.m. Monday, Dec. 6, at Garden City Funeral Home. A funeral service will be held at 1 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 7, at Garden City Funeral Home, followed by burial at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula. The family extends a special and grateful Thank you to St. Patrick Dialysis Center, Hospital and Emergency Room, Village Health Care Center, Drs. Eddy, Lakatua, Bekemeyer and Chris Smith. Memorial contributions in Violet's name are suggested to the St. Patrick Dialysis Center, 615 W. Alder, Missoula, MT 59802.

Ila Marie Oaks, 97

Ila Marie Oaks, 97, died Tuesday, Nov. 30, 2010, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish. Ila was born on Dec. 2, 1912, in Lapeer County, Michigan to Raymond Walker and Nina (Bearinger) Walker. Ila's father, Ray Walker, who was interested in machinery, had a Lapeer foundry build a dredge, then was hired to dig drains in fields located in the thumb part of Michigan to prevent flooding. A move to Birmingham, Mich., in what is now Troy, Mich., presented a new opportunity for Ila s father to open a gravel pit operation. After several successful years in the gravel business, Ray transferred the operation over to his son and then retired with Nina to their cabin in Red Oak, Mich., known to the family as UpNorfus (named by one of Ray and Nina's grandsons). From a young age Ila wanted to be a teacher. She attended Oakland County Normal Training School in 1930 to1931 and started her teaching career during the Great Depression at the age of 18. Wages were small at that time, she earned just 5 for nine months of teaching but Ila was passionate about her career. She later graduated from Wayne State University and taught in various Michigan schools for more than 26 years. All the activities Ila joined in were related to the educational system. Because Ila enjoyed teaching music, arts and crafts, she remembered the time that her father sat her down and explained that those teachers of music, arts and crafts were often the first to be let out of their jobs. So Ila became a first grade teacher and was discouraged from ever moving from that position. Many of her students over the years have written notes of thanks for her tenacious desire that they learn to write legibly, read and understand words, and especially to work beyond their potential to achieve their goals. Many will miss Ila s inventive and artistic talent as well as her enthusiastic involvement. Ila married Jerold E. Oaks, a school friend of her brother, happily living together for nearly 67 years. Ila is preceded in death by her husband, Jerold; and son Robert Earl Oaks. She is survived by her daughter, Patricia Oaks Tucker and husband, Tom of Kalispell; and son, James E. Oaks of Orrstown and wife, Shirley Oaks of Pennsylvania; nine grandchildren, including two who reside in the Flathead Valley; 12 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild. At her request, there are no services planned for Ila. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be sent to Angel's Place, 25240 Lahser Road, Ste. No. 2, Southfield, MI 48033. Their email address is: http://angelsplace.com/ Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Ila s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Ila s guest book, offer condolences and share memories.

Big snow heralds ski opener

Days and days of snow have piled up for big season openers at Whitefish Mountain Resort on Saturday and at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area on Dec. 10.

Hungry Horse man pursued, Tased

The

Wrestlers kick off season with tourney

Flathead may revamp history course

Why memorize names, dates and facts when most students have access to Internet search engines?

Barkus pleads no contest

Judge has until Jan. 20 to decide on plea agreement

As he left Flathead District Court after pleading no contest Thursday to a felony for a 2009 boat crash that injured five people, state Sen. Greg Barkus said he is anxious to put the legal proceedings behind him.

Sex offender accused of new crimes

A convicted sex offender will face two felony charges in Flathead County District Court after a police investigation revealed he allegedly molested a 5-year-old Kalispell boy.

Victims of crash support the plea deal

The plea agreement offered to Greg Barkus largely resulted from the wishes of the victims of a 2009 boat crash, Flathead County Attorney Ed Corrigan said Thursday.

Soccer's biggest stage: The World Cup through the years

The Diggs Clothing Co.

Yogurt in, soda out: Army revamps training diet

Greg Barkus Change of Plea Hearing

Oil spill fallout: No offshore drilling in East Coast waters

Guin Beller, 85

Guin Beller, 85, passed away on Dec.1, 2010, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. She had recently celebrated her 85th birthday with family and friends.

Jerry Boyd Mortensen, 64

Jerry Boyd Mortensen, born March 6, 1946, passed away at his home in Whitefish on Nov. 27, 2010. He will be remembered in the valley for the many years he worked at Cardinal Hardware in Evergreen. His greatest pleasures were the accomplishments of his family. He is survived by his mother, Jeanette; his wife of 45 years, Margo; son and daughter-in-law, Lance and Kelly; daughter, Marshauna; sister-in-law, Marsha; brother-in-law, Jack Thompson; niece, Kelly Kellems; grandson, Trent, at Montana Tech in Butte; granddaughter, Hailey, at Wenatchee Valley College; also many other family, friends and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert. There will be no services following cremation, as per his request. In lieu of flowers, please make contributions to Whitefish Girls Softball or Columbia Falls Fire and Rescue. Arrangements by Austin Funeral Home.

Helmeth Christian Windy Christman, 85

Helmeth Christman, longtime resident of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully in his sleep at the family home in the early morning hours of Nov. 29, 2010. Helmeth was born Feb. 24, 1925, on the Christman homestead in Ree, N.D. He was the last of 11 children born to German-Russian immigrant parents, Jakob and Anna Maria (Ost) Christman. He was baptized into the Evangelical Lutheran Church. When the Great Depression began, the family lost the farm and moved to Idaho, later relocating to Columbia Falls in March 1931. Times were difficult, but with the friendship of the Anton Hoerner and Clapper families, the family managed. Helmeth attended Columbia Falls public school until the eighth grade. He often spoke of his favorite teacher, Mrs. Eddie. He was musically inclined and enjoyed hunting and fishing with his friends and brothers, Fred and Walter. He inherited from his father a great admiration for horses and fondly remembered his favorite saddle horse, Bill. In the 1940s, Helmeth did not serve in World War II but did his part to help the war effort on the home front. He was a member of the Civilian Conservation Corps and also worked for the Howards and Casnes on their farms in the Birch Grove area. During President Truman s visit to Columbia Falls in 1953 to dedicate the Hungry Horse Dam, Helmeth was part of the security team that guarded the president s train. He worked at Superior Lumber Company in Columbia Falls, and in 1952 began his career as an edgerman at the newly established Plum Creek sawmill in Columbia Falls, a position he held for 34 years until his retirement. His coworkers nicknamed him Windy because he told long-winded stories. On Feb. 5, 1952, Helmeth married Lorene Fraeschle. They established their home along the Flathead River, as had most of the Christmans. They lost everything in the Flood of 1964, but with determination and the kindness of several Columbia Falls businessmen that Helmeth had known as a young man, they were able to rebuild their home and life north of town. Before his health declined, Helmeth spent a lot of time tinkering around the house and ice fishing on Smith Lake. Along with Lorene, he was a member of the Northwest Montana Accordion Association and made many friends through this group. Helmeth was preceded in death by his parents; and all his siblings and their spouses, sister Emma and Joseph Walker, toddler sister Ella, brother Fred and Clara Fraeschle, sister Olga and Dorwin Dewitt, brother Julius and Gladys Matthiason, sister Elma and Fred Schaffer and Clarence Hendershott, brother Walter and Doris Nunn, infant sister Katie, sister Eva and James Lanegan, sister Elsie and Clarence Palmer; canine companion, Roscoe, and feline friend, Tommy. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Lorene; son, Lyle Christman, and Tiffany, of Seattle; daughter, Diane, and Steve Holladay, of Kila; and daughter, Edith Christman, of Columbia Falls; grandchildren, Beth and Mike Schultz of Arnold, Calif., Katie Christman of Kalispell, Jacob Christman of Kalispell, Joshua Holladay of Great Falls, and Trevor Holladay of Kila; great-grandchildren, Dominic, Sarah, Avery, Ella, Mary, Aiden and Lisa; former daughter-in-law, Linda Whitaker, of Kalispell; and many nieces and nephews. He also leaves behing his faithful feline companion of 16 years, Kitt. Jim Coulson, Dick Downing, Rial Green, Robert Howard, Tom Oliver, and Vic Steen, Jr. have been named as honorary pallbearers. Visitation is 1 to 3 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 3, at Columbia Mortuary in Columbia Falls. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, at Columbia Mortuary. Burial will follow immediately after at Woodlawn Cemetery in Columbia Falls. A potluck gathering for family and friends will be held at the Columbia Falls Seniors Center on Nucleus Avenue after internment. Please send cards of condolence to the Christman family at P.O. Box 1431, Columbia Falls, MT 59912.

Nellaka Rayn Gibbs, 7

Nellaka Rayn Gibbs passed away unexpectedly on Nov. 26, 2010, at her home in Oak Harbor, Wash., at the age of 7. She was born June 27, 2003, in Kalispell. At the age of 8 months, she moved to Oak Harbor. Nellaka attended kindergarten and first grade at Olympic View Elementary and was currently a second grade student at Crescent Harbor Elementary in Oak Harbor. Nellaka was an incredible reader and a very accomplished student. She was very active in different groups in school and also a member of Girl Scouts. Nellaka enjoyed four-wheeling with her parents, tubing at the lake, and visiting family in Montana. She enjoyed dining at fancy restaurants, having her nails painted, sparkling jewelry and beautiful dresses. She got to visit and see many amazing things in her short life and appreciated every moment. Nellaka is survived by her parents, Jeremy and Misty Gibbs, of Oak Harbor, and by two sisters, Joscelyn and Kamryn Gibbs; also by sister, Hannah Virnig and her mother of Kalispell. Survivors also include her grandparents, Jerry and Rusty Gibbs of Missoula, Sandra Mackey of Kalispell, and Samuel Yates of Missoula; and by her great-grandparents, Alan Yates and Donna Martin, both of Missoula, and Mr. and Mrs. Dan Gibbs of Kalispell. She is also survived by her birth father, Leslie O Donnell, of Kalispell; half sister, Veleena O Donnell, of Kalispell; and birth grandparents, Jack and Emily Heil, of Kalispell. Aunts and uncles include Jenny and Keith Hood and three children of Naturita, Colo., Sena and Shawn Davisson and two children of Kalispell, Ashley and Clint Farrington and three children of Kalispell, Ryan and Bessie Yates and two children of Yelm, Wash., Justin and Kylie Barker and one child of Pahrump, Nev., Sage Yates of Hamilton, and Bob and Brandy Touchstone and two children of Frenchtown. Nellaka was preceded in death by her great-grandparents, Fern Gibbs, Gene and Delores Pound, Ron Mackey and Lovonne Lovoy. A memorial fund has been set up for the family at Bank of America. A memorial service for Nellaka was held at NAS Whidbey Island Chapel. Whidbey Memorial Funeral & Cremation Services, 746 NE Midway Blvd., Oak Harbor, WA 98277, is taking care of the family. Friends and family are encouraged to share memories and condolences at www.whidbeymemorial.com. A memorial will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 5, at the Frenchtown Community Church in Frenchtown. Another memorial service in the Kalispell area is still pending at this time.

County OKs 'doughnut' deal

Acknowledging it’s not a perfect document but “a good start on the road to recovery,” the Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday unanimously approved a revised interlocal agreement for the two-mile planning “doughnut” outside the city of Whitefish.

Hunting veteran named 'Unsung Hero' by Outdoor Life magazine

Brad Borden has plowed thousands of hours into bow hunting — with great success — but it is the thousands of hours he has volunteered for outdoors education and conservation that brought him into the ranks of 25 annual award winners recognized by Outdoor Life magazine.

County takes over Hungry Horse Fire Department

Flathead County commissioners voted Wednesday to take control of the Hungry Horse Volunteer Fire Department as the taxing district tangles with a dissolved board of trustees and a $71,000 deficit.

Chocolate treats take center stage

Annual Extravaganza attracts crowd of nearly 500 people

Nearly 500 people attended the Flathead County Republican Women’s 26th annual Chocolate Extravaganza at the Hilton Garden Inn on Wednesday.

Lakeside plan crosses the finish line

Applause broke out Wednesday when the Flathead County commissioners gave final approval to an update of the Lakeside Neighborhood Plan, bringing an end to a three-year process fraught with controversy, delays and litigation.

Pay freeze for feds a good start

President Barack Obama’s proposal to freeze the pay of 2 million federal employees is a solid, symbolic stroke to begin the deficit battle, but it surely doesn’t go far enough and we’ll believe it when we see it pass Congress.

Father, son have fight over driving

The

Crèche event in Kalispell expanded to two days

In the glow of a dozen or more Christmas trees, hundreds of artfully crafted nativity scenes will delight the eye as live choirs, soloists and musicians launch the spirit at The First Noel, A Community Christmas Celebration today and Friday.

Deep stuff

Schools' fiscal health hinges on Legislature

Shortfall could be as little as $520,000

If the budget Gov. Brian Schweitzer released last month stands, the budget situation in Kalispell Public Schools could be much less dire than anticipated.

The Federal Reserve: Recent reports and decisions

Deficit commission: Propals for cutting the debt

Brad Borden Profile

26th Annual Chocolate Extravaganza

pet contest photos only iframe

Contest iframe

John Ryan Micklewright, 28

John Ryan Micklewright, 28, passed away Nov. 28, 2010, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. He was born to Darrell and Fran (Bour) Micklewright on March 31, 1982, in Davenport, Iowa. Ryan s family moved to Kalispell when he was 2 years old. Ryan graduated from Flathead High School in 2000. He loved cooking and attended Scott Community College in Bettendorf, Iowa, majoring in culinary arts. Ryan loved playing guitar, the Chicago Cubs and the band Pearl Jam. He was preceded in death by both his paternal and maternal grandparents. Ryan is survived by his parents, Darrell Micklewright and Fran Micklewright, both of Kalispell; son, Samuel James Micklewright; brother, Jason Micklewright, of Port Hueneme, Calif.; and sister, Jennifer Micklewright, of Kalispell. Memorial services for Ryan will be held at 2 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home. The family suggests that any memorial contributions be sent to the Sam Micklewright Education Fund, Whitefish Credit Union, No. 972257, P.O. Box 37, Whitefish, MT 59937. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Ryan s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Ryan s guest book, offer condolences and share memories.

Ruby Mae Palin, 79

Ruby Mae Palin, 79, passed away on Thursday, Nov. 25, 2010, at the Brendan House in Kalispell. She was born on Feb. 16, 1931 in Missoula, the daughter of Norman and Edna (Jackson) Stinger. Ruby was a wonderful homemaker, wife, mother, grandmother, sister and friend. She was married to Daniel Palin in 1949. She was also a dedicated and baptized Jehovah s Witness for the past 40 years. She was strong in her beliefs, and served God to the best of her ability at all times. She touched the lives of all who knew her. Ruby also had an awesome sense of humor and was very witty. She knew how to make people laugh and smile. No words can express how much she was loved and will be missed. She was preceded in death by her husband, Daniel Palin, in 1985. She is survived by her five children, Nonie Hultgren and husband, Don, of Pembroke Pines, Fla., Glenna Palin, George Palin and Norman Palin, all of Kalispell, and Dana Palin-Abern of Vashon, Wash.; 10 grandchildren, Danise Nelson, Laurie Allen, Jesse Allen, Amanda Hultgren, Jeremy Palin, Leah Pharr, Jade Palin, Dalton Palin, Christopher Johnson and Hali Abern; nine great-grandchildren; and two sisters, June Fischer of Missoula, and Essie Bazzani of Roswell, N.M. Memorial services for Ruby will be held at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah s Witnesses at 1414 Woodland Avenue in Kalispell. Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home and Crematory is caring for Ruby s family. You are invited to go to www.jgfuneralhome.com to view Ruby s guest book, offer condolences and share memories.

John Jesus John Cochran, 51

John Jesus John Cochran, 51, passed away peacefully Saturday, Nov. 6, 2010, at his Coram residence. John was born May 14, 1959, in Kalispell, to Richard and Jackie (Olmstead) Cochran. He was raised in the Hungry Horse area of Northwest Montana. John had a lifelong love of the beautiful Northwest Mountains of Montana. He especially loved fishing. When John wasn t fishing, he could be found playing dominos with friends. John was preceded in death by his mother, Jackie Cochran, formerly of Kalispell, in 2001; brother, Chuck Mikel, formerly of Spokane, in 2008; and his aunt, Betty Cochran, formerly of Kalispell, in 2009. He is survived by his father, Richard Dick Cochran, of Kalispell; son, Kenan Pieterick, and fiancee, Kim, of Columbia Falls; brothers, Jim Cochran of Kalispell, Joe Cochran of Colbert, Wash., and Matt Guinard and wife, Kat, of Martin City; sisters, Roberta Cookie Brauer and husband, Mike, of Spokane, Joyce Brauer and husband, Jeff Satnowski, of Elk, Wash., and baby sister, Jackie Jay Owens, and husband, Bob, of Ellensburg, Wash.; three grandchildren, Trentin, Kealie and Taylin, of Columbia Falls; uncle, David, and aunt, Helen, Cochran of Algona, Wash.; three-plus nephews; 10-plus nieces; as well as numerous great-nieces and -nephews. A wake and benefit auction, potluck will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 4, at the Deer Lick Saloon in Martin City. For more information, please contact Matt at 406-387-4020; or Joyce at 509-292-7285. Buffalo Hill Funeral Home is caring for the family.

Brenneman outspends Holmquist

Democratic Flathead County Commissioner Joe Brenneman outspent Republican challenger Pam Holmquist by more than $7,300 in his unsuccessful bid for re-election.

Local students simulate U.N. sessions

Twenty-four Flathead Valley students recently attended the Montana Model United Nations Conference in Missoula.

Lights up!

County fills openings on committees

 The Daily Inter Lake

Lung tumor technology upgraded at local center here

 The HealthCenter, a part of Northwest Healthcare in Kalispell, is the first facility in Montana to offer new technology for diagnosis and an earlier treatment plan for patients with tumors of the lung.

And the (police) beat goes on ...

The

The northern front: a forewarning of changes worldwide