Tuesday, May 31

Stillwater grad follows exhausting path
Editor's note: This is the second in a series recognizing talented graduates from the senior class of 2011. The Inter Lake has created its own "senior award" for each graduate.

Richard Wilson obituary
Heidi Heileson
Heidi Heileson, daughter of David and Karla Heileson of Clinton, was born May 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Madalyn Grace Schovaers
Madalyn Grace Schovaers, daughter of Randi and Jessi Schovaers of Kalispell, was born May 3 at North Valley Hospital.

wilkerson obit
John Burton Smiley
John Burton Smiley, son of John and Leslie Smiley of Bigfork, was born May 10 at North Valley Hospital.
Mary L. Nix, 71
Mary L. Nix, 71, passed away Monday, May 30, 2011, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Mary was born Dec. 9, 1939, in Liberal, Kan., to Clarence and Hallie Nix. Mary was a devoted daughter, granddaughter, mother, grandmother and great-grandmother.

Warren Robert 'Bob' Wilkerson, 83
Warren Robert “Bob” Wilkerson, 83, died of lung disease in Kalispell, May 18, 2011. He was born an only child to Ben and Erma Wilkerson in Hamilton on Sept. 19, 1927. He spent his early years in the Bitterroot and moved with his wife, Janis (Blair), to the Flathead Valley, where they raised three sons, Mitchell, Robin and Alex Wilkerson.
Daybook
Tuesday
Greyson Kelly Smith
Greyson Kelly Smith, son of Michael and Traci Smith, was born May 6 at North Valley Hospital. He weighed 8 pounds, 7 ounces and was 20 1/2 inches long.

Memorial Day in Whitefish

Glacier girl "most likely to end up in the spotlight"
Editor’s note: This is the third in a series recognizing talented graduates from the senior class of 2011. The Inter Lake has created its own “senior award” for each graduate.
Brianna Paige Ruonavaara
Brianna Paige Ruonavaara, daughter of Richard and Kristina Ruonavaara of Whitefish, was born May 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Fair hopes to increase attendance with lower prices
Advance ticket sales for this year’s Northwest Montana Fair are ahead of sales for last year’s grandstand events.
Christopher Francis Lehman
Christopher Francis Lehman, son of Benjamin Lehman and Shelley Goodnight of Kalispell, was born May 14 at North Valley Hospital.

Richard Dean Wilson, 74
Richard Dean Wilson of Polson "passed into eternal life" on May 28, 2011. He was 74.
Sperry Chalet damaged by avalanche
An avalanche has damaged Sperry Chalet and may force the popular backcountry hotel on the west side of Glacier National Park to open at reduced capacity for guests.
Bernardo Taormina, 87
Bernardo Taormina, 87, a United States Navy and World War II veteran, died of natural causes on May 28, 2011, in Kalispell.

Maroney Grad Profile
Man Tasered in local park
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a combative man threatening to fight people in Bigfork’s Sliter Park area Sunday night. The sheriff’s log says that a Taser was deployed by responding deputies.
Monday, May 30
Libby splits with Rocky Mountain Bandits
Tate Wilson threw a no-hitter in the second half of a twinbill Sunday and the Libby Loggers came away with a split with the Rocky Mountain Bandits.
Lakers offense heats up against Mariners
POLSON - Joe Pistorese was 5-for-6 on the day with five doubles and four RBI as the Kalispell Lakers defeated host Mission Valley in a doubleheader on Sunday.

Nick Cook: A Hero Remembered
Hungry Horse soldier honored with posthumous Silver Star
On a snowy day a few weeks ago, Kathy Taylor of Hungry Horse accepted the Silver Star awarded posthumously to her grandson Pfc. Nicholas Cook for valor in the face of the enemy in Afghanistan.
Indy 500: A century of winners
Sunday, May 29
Threatening note found on sidewalk
Kalispell Police said someone found a threatening note on the sidewalk somewhere between Glacier High School and McDonald’s shortly after 2 p.m. Sunday. The note allegedly threatened hospital workers because a woman died of an infection. The note also allegedly threatened a lawsuit.
Courage Under Fire: The Pfc. Cook Story
Locked-out woman wants cigarette
Memorial Day: Honoring the sacrifice of all who serve
Since being appointed in September 2008 by Gov. Schweitzer to serve as the 24th Adjutant General for the state of Montana, I have had the distinct honor and privilege of traveling around our great state to attend memorial services for many of Montana’s fallen heroes and to meet with their brave and grieving families.

Driving the Flathead
A 'progress' report on climate change
Is the planet now on the Titanic’s course?
Like the crew and passengers on the Titanic when it was cruising through the North Atlantic on the evening of April 14, 1912, far too many Americans presently believe that we can navigate our way through the most imminent threat before us by using a marginally feasible “third option” for avoiding disaster.

Ernest Leroy Endicott

Ernest Leroy Endicott, 58
Ernest Leroy Endicott, 58, of Kalispell passed away April 18, 2011, at his family home after a long bout with Lou Gehrig’s disease.

Ariel Ramstad
Once upon a time, 10 schools were open along U.S. 2 corridor
The closure of Canyon Elementary marks the end of an era in the Canyon.

End of the line for Canyon school
Hungry Horse elementaryclosing due to budget cuts after 22 years of service
It’s been a year to remember at Canyon Elementary School.
Kalispell union pulls out of Evergreen election
The International Association of Fire Fighters union has withdrawn from an organizing election in Evergreen.
'Pack brings back trophy
Glacier boys earn third place at Class AA state track meet
BUTTE - The Glacier boys needed a big second day in order to earn their first track trophy, and that's exactly what happened.
Gary Ray Christiansen, 71
Gary Ray Christiansen passed away April 22, 2011, in Mesa, Ariz.
Honoring our fallen heroes
A little more than a year ago, in a remote province in Afghanistan far from his home in Hungry Horse, Pfc. Nicholas Cook stood tall in the face of withering enemy fire.
Putting principle ahead of popularity
Last week, I had the pleasure of introducing many of my readers to author Dorothy Thompson for the first time.
Pirates super in state softball
Polson defeats Frenchtown in 2nd championship game for school’s 6th title
MILES CITY -Determination led to domination for the Polson Pirate softball team on Saturday at the Class A state softball tournament.

Taxi service finds niche serving elderly, disabled
Jeanne Herron has always had a passion for helping people who need medical care. Thirty years as a certified nursing assistant attest to that.

Last Days at Canyon School
Saturday, May 28

2011 Montana Regional Qualifying Tournament

Hashley Grad Profile
Man admits assaulting 2 girls
A 28-year-old man charged with three counts of sexual intercourse without consent for crimes involving teenage girls pleaded guilty to one charge Thursday in Flathead District Court.
Ragan May Wester
Ragan May Wester, daughter of Angel Wester of Columbia Falls, was born May 4 at North Valley Hospital.
Record rain but no flooding yet on Flathead
Record precipitation was recorded in the Flathead Valley and at higher elevations Thursday, but cool weather is likely to halt snow melt and keep local rivers in check for now, according to the National Weather Service in Missoula.
Jeremiah Dave Miller
Jeremiah Dave Miller, son of Joshua and BriAnne Miller of Whitefish, was born May 5 at North Valley Hospital.
Glacier bows out to Capital
BILLINGS - Helena Capital scored five runs in the bottom of the first inning and never looked back as it defeated the Glacier Wolfpack 6-1 in loser out play of the Class AA state softball tournament on Friday.
Polson unbeaten in state softball
MILES CITY - It took the Polson Pirates a few innings to get going in Friday afternoon's Class A state softball quarterfinal.
Briella Ann Olivier
Briella Ann Olivier, daughter of Kelly and Shelby Olivier of Kalispell, was born May 5 at North Valley Hospital.
Alleged beer bottle assailant busted
Oliver Wade O'Neil
Oliver Wade O’Neil, son of Daniel and Katherine O’Neil of Columbia Falls, was born May 14 at North Valley Hospital.
C-Falls, Libby, Polson tie for fourth
GREAT FALLS - The theme Saturday for Columbia Falls, Libby and Polson on the final day of the Class A state tennis tournament was - a few points short.
Josie Kay Melton
Josie Kay Melton, daughter of Thane Mellton and Baylee Sorensen of Whitefish, was born May 5 at North Valley Hospital.
More snow up high
The following chart shows snow levels and the snow water equivalent at automated measuring sites as of Friday.
Tenzin John Sigafoos
Tenzin John Sigafoos, son of Jason Sigafoos and Rachel Skans of Eureka, was born May 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Blayke MaRae Brockman
Blayke MaRae Brockman, daughter of Randy and Sasha Brockman of Somers, was born May 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Jazlynn Moss
Jazlynn Moss, daughter of Travis and Rebecca Moss of Columbia Falls, was born May 9 at North Valley Hospital.

Kayakers ride Wild Mile this weekend
Flows on the Wild Mile are higher than normal, but that surely won’t stop this weekend’s 38th annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival.
Friday, May 27

Driving the Flathead
Spencer Josiah Piedemonte
Spencer Josiah Piedemonte, son of John and Melanie Piedemonte, was born May 10 at North Valley Hospital.
Emery Lynn Nasset
Emery Lynn Nasset, daughter of Trey and Cortney Nasset of Kalispell, was born May 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Camping areas open for wet Memorial Day weekend
Most developed campgrounds in Northwest Montana, with the exception of some in Glacier National Park, are open for the Memorial Day weekend.
Danielle Lee Leighty
Danielle Lee Leighty, daughter of Mark and Rachel Leighty of Kalispell, was born May 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Finley Thomas Bansak
Finley Thomas Bansak, son of Thomas and Anne Bansak of Bigfork, was born May 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Todd Gregory Bruckelmyer
Todd Gregory Bruckelmyer, son of Sean and Shirlyn Bruckelmyer of Kalispell, was born May 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
State AA softball: Butte upends Glacier
BILLINGS - Kendra Bouley singled and scored, but it wasn't quite enough for the Glacier Wolfpack softball team on Thursday.
Flathead Lake is expected to exceed full pool
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is projecting that Flathead Lake may rise four feet and exceed its full-pool elevation of 2,893 feet in early June due to high inflows of water.
Sullivan Eliot Taylor
Sullivan Eliot Taylor, son of Jesse Taylor and Amber Radabah of Kalispell, was born May 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Caroline Jane Dyer, 52
Caroline Jane Dyer, 52, passed away at her home in Kalispell, on May 17, 2011.
Olga Shadler, 91
Olga Shadler, 91, passed away May 24, 2011, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

High water
Cosette Monet Young
Cosette Monet Young, daughter of Josh and Sara Young of Kalispell, was born May 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Polson pounds Anaconda in state softball opener
MILES CITY - Shalaina Duford threw a two-hitter and the Polson bats got after Anaconda early as the Pirates defeated the Copperheads 10-0 in the first round of the Class A state softball tournament on Thursday.

County increases sandbag supply
Material to help protect property available throughout valley
Additional bags and sand have been placed at several more sites around Flathead County as emergency services officials prepare for potential flooding.
Libby beats Kootenai Valley
LIBBY - Micah Germany tripled during a 4-for-4 day at the plate as Libby rolled to a 19-4 Class A American Legion baseball victory over the Kootenai Valley Rangers on Thursday.
Cona Marie Vukonich
Cona Marie Vukonich, daughter of Robert and Lin Jieping Vukonich of Eureka, was born May 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Premier soccer tourney at Kidsports
The 2011 Montana Youth Soccer Association National Championship Series Regional Qualifying Tournament for premier boys and girls teams will be held Saturday and Sunday at the Kidsports Complex.
Cousins plead not guilty in drug case
Two Evergreen men who were badly burned in March while allegedly attempting to convert marijuana into hashish pleaded innocent to manufacturing dangerous drugs Thursday in Flathead District Court.
Wylie Benjamin Armstrong
Wylie Benjamin Armstrong, son of Benjamin and Ashlee Armstrong of Bigfork, was born May 11 at North Valley Hospital.
High school graduation rites begin this weekend
Starting this weekend, bands will strike up “Pomp and Circumstance” and hundreds of seniors throughout the county will march the solemn procession that wraps up their high school careers.
Zvygelskiys, Rochin, Zimmerman in semis at Class A state tennis
GREAT FALLS - Columbia Falls and Polson have advanced players to the semifinals after first-day action Thursday at the Class A state tennis tournament.
Many need help after flooding
With an eye toward significant flooding across much of Eastern Montana, we’re feeling fortunate so far, but concerned about what the weeks ahead may hold in store for this side of the state.
Violet Joy Bulgar
Violet Joy Bulgar, daughter of George and Melissa Bulgar of Kalispell, was born May 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
VA adds mental-health facility at Fort Harrison
Officials with the Veterans Affairs Montana health-care system will unveil a 24,000-square-foot inpatient mental-health facility at Fort Harrison on June 3.
Avila Mae Hopkins
Avila Mae Hopkins, daughter of Aaron and Tracie Hopkins of Kalispell, was born May 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Chico the Chihuahua not welcome
A
Logan Charles Jantzen
Logan Charles Jantzen, son of Chuck and Jenny Jantzen of Kalispell, was born May 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Flag to be raised for decorated local war veteran
In a long-standing tradition, the casket flag of Byron Armstrong has been selected for the honor of flying over the Veterans Memorial Monument in Kalispell’s C. E. Conrad Memorial Cemetery for the coming year.
Thursday, May 26

Roy Beekman

Nicholas Cook Remembered
Elizabeth Smart set to confront captor at sentencing
High hopes for NWA teams at state softball tournament
The fields are reportedly in good shape in Miles City, covered and ready for this week's Class A state softball tournament.
Commissioners approve Saddlehorn lot addition
Flathead County commissioners changed their position on a request from a developer to overturn a decision issued by the county’s planning director.
O'Connell's HR rallies AA Lakers past AA Twins
WHITEFISH - Michael O'Connell's three-run homer to left field in the seventh inning started a five-run rally and Kalispell came back with two more runs in the seventh to slip past Glacier's Twins 7-5 in American Legion AA baseball action on Wednesday.
Man reportedly shoots himself in foot

Family outing
Hospital shifts ER entrance
Kalispell Regional Medical Center’s emergency department walk-in and patient drop-off entrance is moving a short distance this morning to the east side of the emergency department.
County responds to FVCC election complaints
Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday essentially dismissed three complaints filed by a losing candidate in the May 3 election for positions on the Flathead Valley Community College board.
A path to federal savings!
Montana’s own Rep. Denny Rehberg and Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., deserve credit for teaming up on worthy, common-sense legislation that would reverse to some extent the perverse incentives for states to take federal funding regardless of the wisdom of doing so.
Polson girls 7 strong for state tennis tournament
Ten would have been a perfect sendoff for state, but seven should suffice.
Cold, snow to slow down flooding
An incoming cold front is expected to bring some snow but slow flooding across Northwest Montana over the next few days.

Kats 'run with it'
The memory brings a smile to Jordan Lefebvre.

Antelope
Anglers reel in 26,477 lake trout
Spring Mack Days concluded with great fishing weather for the final three days of the event, with Chuck Forgey of Arlee finishing as the top angler.

Harsh winter depletes antelope numbers
Hunt permits likely to be decreased
The June 1 deadline for deer and pronghorn antelope license drawing is fast approaching, but this year hunters should expect slimmer pickings due to high mortality from a brutal winter in Eastern Montana.
Glacier riding six-game winning streak to state softball tourney
The Glacier Wolfpack softball team practiced for more than an hour in the rain earlier this week.
Senators back North Fork bill
Montana Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester testified Wednesday in support of legislation that would permanently withdraw federal lands in the North Fork Flathead River drainage from future leases for energy development.

Laurie Melanie (Toavs) Emmert, 53
FVCC celebrates AmeriCorps Week
Flathead Valley Community College Campus Corps members are celebrating AmeriCorps Week, spotlighting the group’s impact on communities across the nation.
Two grizzly bears captured in Coram
Two grizzly bear yearlings have been captured in Coram and relocated, and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is investigation the death of a grizzly bear that was recently found on the east side of Hungry Horse Reservoir.
Wednesday, May 25
Iceland volcano: Ash cloud could cancel up to 500 flights

Cultivating Her Garden
Dialogue heats up on Mideast peace plan
Oprah Winfrey: Talk show ends after 25 years

Dorothy A. Klug

Warren Douglas Hartry, 55
Warren Douglas Hartry of Marion passed away on Monday, May 23, 2011.

Arnold Melvin 'Arnie' Grob, 92
Lawyers fight murder verdicts
Attorneys for a young Evergreen woman convicted of two counts of deliberate homicide asked a judge Tuesday to either declare her innocent, order a new trial or pronounce her guilty of a lesser charge.
Montana flooding prompts Red Cross advice
Since widespread flooding has displaced people in Eastern Montana, an overwhelming number of calls have come to the Montana Red Cross from concerned people nationwide inquiring about the well-being of friends and family.
Teen cited for allegedly starting fire
C.F. Council delays vote on permanent manager
Nicosia receives interim approval
By CALEB SOPTELEANThe Daily Inter Lake
Voters reject $40,000 levy request in Kila
Kila School will make more cuts in its 2011-12 budget, now that voters have denied an operational levy request.

Valley Ford set for June 1 opening
Jim Peterson at helm of new venture
Valley Ford is on track to open June 1, breathing life back into the former Kari Dodge facility in Evergreen that was vacated earlier this year.

RoseAnn Stafford, 70
RoseAnn Stafford, 70, passed away on Monday, May 23, 2011, at her home in Kalispell.
Class B-C state softball moved to Great Falls
The Montana High School Association announced Tuesday that the Class B-C state softball tournament will be played in Great Falls.

New Valley Ford dealership

Dorothy A. Klug, 87
Dorothy A. Klug, 87, a registered nurse and the wife of a minister, who from 1949 to 1955 served a Lutheran church in Kalispell, died May 22, 2011, in Fort Wayne, Ind., where she lived. During the past three decades, she had annually returned to her summer home in Kalispell.

RoseAnn Stafford
College to seek bids on maintenance building
Flathead Valley Community College’s Board of Trustees voted Monday to solicit bids for a new maintenance building on the Kalispell campus.

Warren Douglas Hartry
Tuesday, May 24

Columbia Falls vs. Polson Softball
Obama in Europe: Visits Ireland, U.K., France, Poland
Immigration laws: State-level reform largely fizzles
Suicide bombing: Pakistan reels from terror attack
Helmet used for target practice
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday from a man who said another man took his helmet and used it for target practice, apparently shooting a hole through it in a yard on Trumble Creek Road.

Flooding-House Fire
Glacier Park tightens boat inspections
Starting this week, Glacier National Park is stepping up its boat inspection and permit program due to the rapid westward migration of aquatic invasive species on recreational watercraft.
Whitefish street project ahead of schedule
If the weather cooperates this week, the 100 block of Central Avenue in Whitefish could open to traffic as early as Friday afternoon, more than two weeks ahead of schedule.
Muhlfeld sets sights on Whitefish mayoral post
Whitefish City Council member and Deputy Mayor John Muhlfeld has filed for mayor in Whitefish.
Antonio Tony DiCiocco, 73
Antonio “Tony” DiCiocco, 73, passed away May 18, 2011, in Libby.
Couple receives FVCC Eagle Award
Bill McClaren, the last living founder of Flathead Valley Community College, and his wife, Lois, were presented the college’s prestigious Eagle Award for the 2010-2011 academic year by President Jane Karas during the 16th annual President’s Donor Dinner on May 12.

Rain's on the way; flood stage to follow
A mixed bag of weather is expected to push rivers across Western Montana, including the Flathead River, to flood stage this week.
Daybook
Tuesday
Monday, May 23
Hexacopter over flooding Stillwater River
Parents cause a stir at hospital
Hot-hitting Lakers claim Canadian Days title
Kalispell, Glacier finish weekend 3-1; Lakers win by virtue of tiebreaker
The Canadian Days Tournament ended with a smash.
Columbia Falls teacher wins state honor
A Columbia Falls High School teacher has been named the top home economics instructor in the state.

Egg game inventor still scrambling after 15 years
Flathead Valley resident Erich Jonas has spun a stone egg across a flat board into a cultural exchange activity played in 14 nations

'We eat, sleep and breathe the theater'
Spending entire nights at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center in hectic preparation for a recent youth production of "Rent" was not a huge sacrifice for Alpine Theatre Project Executive Director Luke Walrath.
Sunday, May 22

Martha Louise 'Sophie' Wagner
Loggers rip Mariners
LIBBY - Jared Winslow's perfect streak on the mound continued and Tate Wilson went 7-for-7 with 6 RBI on the day as Libby picked up two impressive legion baseball victories on Saturday.
Bigfork girls dominate divisional track
MISSOULA - Bigfork left no doubt when it came time to determine who had the best girls track team at Missoula County Stadium on Saturday.

Mark Weed expands used-car dealership in Evergreen
Mark Weed Auto Sales has moved to the other side of the street in Evergreen and tripled its highway frontage in the process.
Hoarded cats now up for adoption
Cliff Bennett, director of the Flathead County Animal Shelter, said Friday that 72 cats associated with a recent hoarding case now are available for adoption.
Kila asks voters for $40,000
Kila voters will decide Tuesday whether to support a levy request from their school district.
Glacier girls win state tennis
GREAT FALLS - Glacier ruled the courts on the final day of the Class AA state tennis tournament Saturday.
Bigfork boys second at B-C state tennis
MISSOULA - Bigfork settled for second place, falling four points short of Valley Christian for the team title on Saturday at the Class B-C boys state tennis tournament.
Glacier AA Twins edge Trail; fall to Sherwood Park
Cody Elek drove in five runs with a bases clearing triple in the fourth inning and a two-run home run in the sixth inning to power the Glacier Twins to an 11-9 victory over Trail, British Columbia, on Saturday at the Canadian Days American Legion baseball tournament at Griffin Field.
Doughnut solution elusive
It’s been three years and the Whitefish “doughnut” is still rolling. Round and round it goes; where it stops nobody knows.
Man sentenced for role in botched drug deal
Bo Hanger was dealt a two-year deferred sentence Thursday for his role in a botched drug deal that left his friend in the hospital with gunshot wounds on Dec. 5, 2009.

James 'Dan' Crowley

Noemi Ban was 16 when she posed with Erzsébet, who was killed at Auschwitz.
Story emerges of long-lost cowboy hero
History is kind of my bag. I’ve always enjoyed writing about the cast of characters who left their mark on the annals of places such as the Flathead Valley.
New office would give rural schools a voice
A Montana lawmaker introduced legislation that could give the state’s small schools a louder voice at the federal level.

Noemi Ban was 9 months old in this photo taken with her mother, Juliska.
C-Falls boys, Whitefish girls track champs champs
POLSON - The Whitefish girls and the Columbia Falls boys claimed Northwestern A divisional track trophies on Saturday.

Flood outlook in holding pattern for now
Rain predicted this week could affect river levels
A flood warning remains in effect for the Stilllwater River through central Flathead County, while the National Weather Service predicts that other major waterways will begin to swell at a faster pace this week.
Jerome Patrick Smithson, 80
Jerome Patrick Smithson, 80, passed away on Friday, May 6, 2011, in West Richland, Wash.
Lakers split on 2nd day of Canadian Days Tournament
The Kalispell Lakers' seven-game win streak came to an end after Edmonton put together a big third inning in the nightcap of the second day of the Canadian Days American Legion baseball tournament at Griffin Field on Saturday.

James 'Dan' Crowley, 67
James “Dan” Crowley, 67, passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2011, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Martha Louise 'Sophie' Wagner, 81
Martha Louise “Sophie” Wagner “passed from this earthly life into the hands of her loving Lord, Jesus,” on May 19, 2011, in her home and in total peace.

Weed Auto Sales of Evergreen
Knights drop fourth-straight game
BELGRADE - The Glacier offense went flat with the loss of their starting running back and the Knights dropped their fourth-straight Rocky Mountain Football League game on Saturday.
Divisional A tennis: Polson girls, Libby boys retain titles
LIBBY - For Polson's girls and Libby's boys, it was just like last year.

Survivor's story: Hundreds hear woman describe the horrors of the Holocaust
For nearly two hours Tuesday at Glacier High School, Holocaust survivor Noémi Ban held nearly 450 people spellbound as she transported them through the horrors of the Nazi invasion of Hungary in 1944 and her life at the concentration camp in Auschwitz, Poland.

Growing new tradition: Wolfpack boys claim second division title
Flathead boys, girls also in top three
The pilot of the small airplane flying low overhead Legends Stadium probably saw the reflection of gold shining up from the black track.

High water at Ashley Creek

Noémi Ban spoke at Glacier High School on Tuesday.
Peter Anthony Sprunger, 88
Peter Anthony Sprunger, 88, passed away on Sunday, May 8, 2011, at the Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center.
Kalispell legislator dismayed by veto of bill
A Kalispell legislator expressed disappointment Thursday over Gov. Brian Schweitzer’s veto of a bill to protect unborn victims of violence.
A tale of two strong conservative women: Yep, it can happen here
A famous 1935 novel by Sinclair Lewis, titled “It Can’t Happen Here,” envisioned the arrival of a fascist regime in America in the guise of a voluble, charismatic president named Buzz Windrip.
Saturday, May 21

Western AA Divisional Track Meet

Sparking an interest in science, math
Jolene Bradstreet fell in love with forensic science long before shows such as “CSI” made it popular.
College honored for its community service efforts
The Corporation for National and Community Service has named Flathead Valley Community College to the 2010 President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for its support of volunteering, service learning and civic engagement.
U.S. 93 back up to full four lanes
Traffic is flowing freely on U.S. 93 in north Kalispell where the construction of a pedestrian tunnel is well ahead of schedule.
Top seeds advance to finals at Northwestern A divisional tennis
LIBBY - The top two seeds, single and doubles for girls and boys, continue to play on after Friday's session at the Northwestern A divisional tennis tournament.

Off and running: Glacier, Flathead teams leading the way at Western divisional
When Shane Freese was a freshman at Glacier High he had to be talked into going out for track.
FVCC price raise approved
Meeting at Flathead Valley Community College, the Montana Board of Regents on Friday unanimously approved the local college’s request for a 2.1 percent increase in tuition along with 4.89 and 8.45 percent increases respectively for Dawson and Miles community colleges beginning this fall.
Local lawmakers not happy with governor's vetoes
Montana needs a better governor than the one who vetoed dozens of bills.
University tuition to rise over two years
Montana university students will be hit with the largest tuition increases seen since 2006 after college leaders decided Friday that an increase of more than 10 percent over the next two years is needed amid state government budget cuts.
Ruby Ridge survivor to share her story
Ruby Ridge survivor Sara Weaver-Balter will share her story of forgiveness on Friday, May 27.
Vals start fast at divisional track
MISSOULA - Bigfork won the 400 relay, Emily Moxley had the best time in the 1,600 and the Valkyries used runner-up finishes by Caitlin Charlebois in the pole vault and Chelsea Olson in the 1,600 to take a huge lead in the team race at the Western B divisional track meet on Friday.

Ready for higher water
Columbia Falls boys, Whitefish girls on top at NWA divisional track
POLSON - The Columbia Falls boys and Whitefish girls are leading the way after the first day of the Northwestern A divisional track meet.
More roads open in park
More roads and facilities have opened in Glacier National Park, and crews continued to make progress plowing Going-to-the-Sun Road this week.

Expanding Your Horizons at FVCC

Flooding along Magstadt in Evergreen
Friday, May 20

Wreck at Reserve and Highway 93

2011 Western AA Divisional Track
Schwarzenegger admits having out-of-wedlock child
2011 French Open: Showcasing the world's best

Log jam along the Stillwater
Ex-teammate says Lance Armstrong injected PED

Cambria Covell Profile
Bigfork's Jordt, Gembala in state tennis doubles semifinals
The Daily Inter Lake
Glacier ready to make noise at AA state tennis
Glacier has the numbers - seven boys and seven girls - and more than enough talent to dictate how things pan out this weekend at the Class AA state tennis tournament in Great Falls.

Governor talks floods during Kalispell visit
Gov. Brian Schweitzer and a good part of his administration were in Kalispell Thursday to meet with local emergency responders and inform them of the state’s capabilities in assisting with flood response.
Rolling Lakers ready for tourney
The week leading up to today's annual Canadian Days legion baseball tournament has been unusually busy for the hometown Lakers.
Smooth sailing for top seeds at Northwestern A divisional tennis
LIBBY - There were no major surprises during first-day action at the Northwestern A divisional tennis tournament on Thursday.

James Wendell Burrowes, 89
James Wendell Burrowes of Polson passed away on his 89th birthday on May 18, 2011, at the Pines of Polson, with his family by his side.
Burglar takes time for a meal
Kalispell Police Department received a report from a woman on Seventh Avenue East Wednesday who said it appeared as though someone had burglarized her home and eaten dinner. A window leading to the home’s basement had been broken.
Polson claims conference softball championship
POLSON - Ten straight and another conference title.
Dam breach narrowly averted near Libby
Lincoln County officials recently narrowly averted a serious flooding situation on a rural lake with an earthen dam southeast of Libby.

James Wendell Burrowes
A legacy of hard work, goodwill
We’re saddened this week by the death of Judy Wise, who along with her husband Doug operated Sykes’ Grocery & Market in Kalispell for decades, turning it into a local landmark and gathering spot. Doug passed away in January.
Woman charged with assault on ex-boyfriend
Man ended up in intensive care with collapsed lungs
The Flathead County Attorney’s Office has charged a 51-year-old woman with aggravated assault and assault with a weapon after she allegedly attacked her ex-boyfriend on April 27.
Robbery suspects plead innocent
Hungry Horse assault allegedly over drug debt
Two men accused of wielding a gun and beating a Hungry Horse man in an attempt to collect a drug debt pleaded innocent to robbery and assault charges Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Progress made on Stillwater log jam
County workers and emergency responders continued efforts to dislodge a log jam on the bulging Stillwater River in Evergreen Thursday.
Thursday, May 19

Crosstown track file photo

Logjam along the Stillwater

Governor Brian Schweitzer meets with local emergency responders in Kalispell.
everything Medicall css
Madisyn Mae Mailman
Madisyn Mae Mailman, daughter of Kief Mailman and Alona Anderson of Kalispell, was born May 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Spring weather takes a toll on cemetery
The wet spring weather has resulted in some ground damage at the Demersville Cemetery, owned by Flathead County.
Man faces charge for eighth DUI
A 48-year-old Kalispell man has been charged with driving under the influence of alcohol for an eighth time.

Julia Mae 'Judy' Wise

Julia Mae 'Judy' Wise, 82
Julia Mae “Judy” Wise, 82, passed away on Monday, May 16, 2011, at her residence in Kalispell. She was born May 30, 1928, in Glasgow, to Stanley and Lula (Putnam) Potts.
Lakers pull away from Loggers
LIBBY - Sean O'Connell hit a 3-run homer to left center in the sixth inning and added a 2-run shot to right center in the eighth as the Kalispell AA Lakers pulled away for a 14-4 American Legion baseball victory over the Libby A Loggers on Wednesday.
Laci Dawn Reddig
Laci Dawn Reddig, daughter of Kyle and Jody Redding of Kalispell, was born May 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Lark Carrie Herring
Lark Carrie Herring, daughter of Cody and Dusti Herring of Bigfork, was born May 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rock'em, sock'em Republicans?
The playoffs are well under way for Republican presidential contenders, whether they be known or not, and while there are some new certainties in this competition, the stage is still set for surprises.
Sawyer Evan Sorensen
Sawyer Evan Sorensen, son of Shaun and Codi Sorensen of Columbia Falls, was born May 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Bravettes, Big Sky battle for state softball berth
One thing is for certain - it will be close.
Developers can get longer plat extensions
Montana developers who halted projects during the economic downturn caught a break with the Legislature’s recent approval of a bill related to preliminary plats for subdivisions.

Flood efforts focus on Stillwater

Russell E. Harshberger, 75
Russell E. Harshberger, 75, passed away May 13, 2011, at his home in Anderson, Ind., after a sudden illness.
Emalina Ava-Marie Gallegos
Emalina Ava-Marie Gallegos, daughter of Travis and Sarah Gallegos of Kalispell, was born April 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Bigfork's Parker 4th, Keenan 5th in state golf
Kyle Parker tied for fourth and Sara Keenan tied for fifth place at the Class B state golf tournaments on Wednesday.
Polson girls seek 5th-straight divisional tennis title
State and divisional tennis action begins today at two different locations in western Montana.
Albert Martin Job, 81
Albert Martin Job, 81, was relieved of his suffering May 17, 2011, at the Montana Veterans Home.
Romy Renae Spencer
Romy Renae Spencer, daughter of Gabriel and Whitney Spencer of Kalispell, was born May 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Russell E. Harshberger
Unknown man reportedly aims gun at couple
Hero or scoundrel? Exhibit on Joe Cosley moves to Kalispell museum
Joe Cosley is the subject of an exhibit now open at the Museum at Central School in Kalispell.

Clutch hit lifts Wolfpack over Knights
"I believe in you. Make them pay for this."
Wednesday, May 18
Libya uprising: Rebel forces making gains
Mississippi River closed at Natchez
everything medical

Glacier vs. Hellgate Softball

Therapy Pool Installed at Immanuel Lutheran

Beverly Jean 'Crick' Withey, 68
Beverly Jean “Crick” Withey, 68, passed away May 14, 2011, in Kalispell, following many years of ill health due to complications of multiple myeloma.

Robert Stanley Black
Mary Ann Stuker, 67
Mary Ann Stuker, 67, of Eureka, passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on May 10, 2011, following a difficult battle with cancer.

Flooding along Trumbull Creek
Whitefish board considers sign exceptions
Whitefish turns its attention yet again to signs on Thursday for a public hearing over changes in city law to better accommodate historic or iconic signs.

Robert Stanley Black, 81
Robert Stanley Black passed away May 15, 2011.

Suspect facing new rape charges
A convicted sex offender arrested late last year for allegedly molesting a 5-year-old Kalispell boy now will face additional charges accusing him of raping an 11-year-old girl.
Loggers hold on, beat Twins
WHITEFISH - A defensive gem by shortstop Justin Wicka led to the final out and killed a Glacier Twins rally in the bottom of the ninth inning as Libby hung on for a 6-4 Class A American Legion baseball victory on Tuesday.

Tunnel project ahead of schedule
The construction of a pedestrian tunnel beneath U.S. 93 at Flathead Valley Community College is currently about three days ahead of schedule, according to a project manager with the Montana Department of Transportation.
Man wants murder confession tossed out
Hours after Tyler Michael Miller allegedly shot and killed his ex-girlfriend and her teenage daughter on Christmas Day, he confessed to the murders during interviews with Flathead County Sheriff’s Office detectives.

Jason Dean Franks, 41
Local pair win lottery prize
It’s been a very fortunate year for Charlie Trinh.
City, county combine efforts to pave roadway
Flathead County and the city of Kalispell are teaming up to chip seal about a mile of Stillwater Road between Three Mile Drive and West Reserve Drive.

Stillwater hits flood stage
Bags and sand are now available to Evergreen residents who are experiencing flooding from the Stillwater River.

Myron J. 'Skip' Withey, 73
Myron J. “Skip” Withey, 73, passed away on Dec. 30, 2010, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, with his wife and stepson by his side. Skip was born March 7, 1937, to Myron A. Withey and Florence J. Newberry, the eldest of five sons. Skip had fought a long and difficult battle with COPD.
Flood Hotline
A new flood hotline has been established by the Flathead County Office of Emergency Services.

Myron 'Skip' Withey

Beverly Withey
Wildlife agency plans upland game-bird changes
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking public comment on a draft Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program strategic plan.

Garry Stansberry

Polson upends Columbia Falls in Northwestern A softball
COLUMBIA FALLS - Little things here and there make a big difference on the bottom line.
Hellgate stands in Wolfpack's way for trip to state AA softball
Through the wind, rain, snow, hail, through postponements, reschedules and cancellations ... and even the few snippets of sunshine, the message from Glacier coaches to the Wolfpack softball team has been the same.
Keenan sits 3rd at state golf
Bigfork's Sara Keenen shot a 7-over 79 on Tuesday in the Class B State Golf Championship at Pryor Creek Golf Course in Huntley.
Early start for bear troubles
With too much snow at higher elevations and an abundance of food attractions in the valleys, grizzly bears and black bears have been stirring up trouble lately.

Erma Sophie Matt
Fred Ray Browning, 73
Fred Ray Browning, 73, passed away on Sunday, May 15, 2011, at his residence in Bigfork.

Erma Sophie Matt, 84
Erma Sophie Matt, 84, of Big Arm, passed away at her home on Monday, May 16, 2011.
Tuesday, May 17

Luke Walrath

Columbia Falls vs. Polson Softball
Who do you support for the 2012 GOP presidential nomination?
Flathead River Rising at West Glacier

Tunnel Construction

FVCC Tunnel Construction

Flooding problems beginning
High water has started to cause some problems at the outset of a flood season that is expected to last for weeks.
Abandoned car causes neighbor issues
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday from a Montana 206 residence from a man who was complaining that his neighbors’ car had long been illegally parked on his property and it was blocking his efforts to remove trees. It turned out that the neighbors didn’t own the car; it was never retained by the previous owner after he bought it in 1987. The owner was contacted, he refused to move the vehicle and was advised that he would be responsible for towing costs.
Daybook
Tuesday
First candidates file for city council elections
Glacier High School government teacher Richard Hildner is the first candidate to file for a City Council seat in Whitefish.

log jam
Health board discusses drug disposal, securing trash
The Flathead County Board of Health discussed efforts to secure trash in vehicles and legal disposal of medications at its May meeting on Thursday.
Man's supporters turn out for sentencing hearing
Family and friends of a Kalispell man convicted of four felonies for assaulting his wife and firing a pistol in the direction of police in 2009 asked a judge to show compassion and issue a lenient sentence Friday in Flathead District Court.
FVCC trustees approve tuition/fee increase
At a special meeting Monday, Flathead Valley Community College trustees approved an increase in tuition and fees for students.
Monday, May 16
Renter reports landlord assault
The
Libby's Winslow throws perfect game
LIBBY - Fourteen-year-old Jared Winslow, in only his second career legion baseball start, threw a perfect game through five innings to give the Libby Loggers a victory and the title at the third annual Wood Bat Tournament on Sunday.

Flathead duo launches innovative aircraft
If you ask John Paul Noyes, the phrase "modern airplane" is an oxymoron.

Carol Buchanan

Author a finalist for elite Spur Award
Flathead Valley novelist Carol Buchanan triumphed over chronic self-doubt by entering her new novel "Gold Under Ice" in the competition for the Spur Awards.
Knights fall short
BURLEY, Idaho - A short staff of Glacier Knights ran out of gas against the Mini-Cassia Diggers in Rocky Mountain Football action late Saturday.
Kalispell seeks grant to buy foreclosed homes
The city of Kalispell has its sights set on another round of state grant funding that would allow the city to buy foreclosed homes and resell them to low-to-moderate income families.
Sign variances proposed for Don K
Signs are on the Whitefish City Council agenda again tonight as the council considers four sign variances to allow the Don K vehicle dealership to add wall signs for its newly acquired automotive franchises.
Streaking Lakers sweep
With four wins in two days, the Kalispell Lakers can say they had a nice weekend.
Glacier splits vs. Helena
WHITEFISH - Geoff Streeter knocked two homeruns and the Glacier Twins salvaged a split with Helena on Sunday at home.
Sunday, May 15
Wilson hired as Flathead athletic director
Flathead High School Principal Peter Fusaro has announced that Bryce Wilson will replace Frank Jobe as the school's activities director.

Lakeside public dock

Jack Potter at Cosley Lake
Alcohol awareness is key to community change with our kids
Before another high school student dies in an alcohol-related accident or another college student dies of alcohol poisoning, the seriousness of the public health problems associated with underage drinking must be brought into focus through the spotlight of public awareness.

In the zone: Pistorese strikes out career-high 19 in Lakers' 6-4 win
The big bag of ice wrapped around Joe Pistorese's left arm was melting fast as he stepped out of the shade of the home dugout.

A home of their own

Fallen Hungry Horse soldier returns
Health officer contract sparks fireworks
The Flathead County Board of Health unanimously approved Health Officer Joe Russell’s new three-year contract Thursday — but only after some heated debate about the conduct of Russell’s employment evaluation.
Pair flying high with rebuilding outfit
Peter Gross used to build race cars for Unsers, Andrettis, A.J. Foyt and the first woman to compete in the Indianapolis 500, Janet Guthrie.

Doris 'Pat' A. Webb, 87
Doris “Pat” A. Webb, 87, of Polson passed away on Friday, Dec. 24, 2010, at St. Joseph Hospital following years of ill health.
Polson's hit parade on display
BUTTE - The Polson Pirate softball offense is alive and well.
Columbia Falls boys, Whitefish girls finish second at ABC track
POLSON - The Whitefish girls and Columbia Falls boys came away with second-place team finishes at the ABC track meet in Polson on Saturday.
Bigfork boys, girls capture 7B track titles
EUREKA - The Bigfork track squads swept district track titles on Saturday.

Doris 'Pat' A. Webb

Tanner Salois

Jack Potter

Eugene F. Mauzey, 88
Eugene F. Mauzey was born to Earl F. and Jenny (LeFevre) Mauzey on Sept. 14, 1922, at Sunset Orchards, Woods Bay, Mont.
Whitefish taps Sarah Scott for volleyball program
Sarah Scott, the junior varsity volleyball coach at Whitefish High School for the past two years, has been hired as head coach of the Bulldogs program.

Longtime park ranger retires
‘Jack Pot’ reflects on priceless times in Glacier Park
Some reporters over the years have affectionately called him “Jack Pot,” because Jack Potter is a treasure trove of information for anything related to Glacier National Park.

Eugene F. Mauzey
Group looks at redevelopment options
Discussion about the potential for building a community or event center in Kalispell continued Thursday with a focus on how the city can utilize federal grant funding and Westside Tax Increment District revenue as tools for city core redevelopment.
Details of sobriety program still in flux
Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry didn’t have to think long about opting into a new state law that will require repeat DUI offenders to submit breath samples twice a day.

Kalispell's fast start sinks Glacier

Favorite Flathead moments
Photographer Nate Chute chose highlights from two years at the Daily Inter Lake before moving on.
Hey, big spender! Cut it out
The coming showdown over the nation’s debt ceiling and the debate over spending cuts is frightening, mainly because we’ve had a sneak preview of just how impervious the federal behemoth seems to be to any kind of fiscal diet.
Elek hits slam in Twins sweep
WHITEFISH - Cody Elek and the Glacier Twins are swinging the bats as well as ever.
Late snow melt presents forest challenges
Warming temperatures and snow melt are contributing to increased water levels in rivers and lakes, and saturated soils across the Flathead National Forest, especially on roads and trails.
Regarding Libya: 'What are you going to do now, Ranger?'
For those of you who never had the “pleasure” of attending the U.S. Army’s Ranger Course, the article’s title refers to those who were unfortunately made the new Ranger patrol leader, were unsure of their location; had fellow Rangers who were cold, tired, hungry, and apathetic, knew the situation was rapidly changing; and heard this arrogant and supreme being known as the Ranger Instructor DEMANDING, not asking, that you do something to unscrew a totally snafued situation.
America in good hands with Mama Grizzlies
Believe it or not, a candidate has come to my attention who actually has a spine — someone who wants to get a grip on Congress and restore sanity to spending.
Saturday, May 14

Kalispell Lakers vs. Helena Senators
Hatchet attack results in reduced charge for Kalispell man
Suspect pleads guilty but mentally ill
A Kalispell man accused of attacking another man with a hatchet and throwing a knife at a police officer in August 2010 pleaded guilty but mentally ill to a reduced charge Thursday in Flathead District Court.
Flathead passes Libby in track
LIBBY - Flathead's relay teams for boys and girls turned in impressive times in one last meet before the Western AA divisional.

Students give voice to headquarters history
Year after year, a cluster of buildings just outside Glacier National Park’s west entrance has sat patiently. The structures do little to call attention to themselves, and most visitors, bound for picturesque peaks and hiking trails, give them little thought as they drive by.

Patricia 'Patty' (Coggeshall) Dominick, 67
On May 9, 2011, Patricia “Patty” (Coggeshall) Dominick passed away surrounded by family in her home in Whitefish, ending her brave battle with cancer.

Flathead Valley Community College graduates largest class in its history
No decision reached yet on alcohol at fair
No decision was made about selling alcohol during any parts of the Northwest Montana Fair at Thursday’s Flathead County Fair Board meeting.
Glacier clinches No. 3 seed with victory
Wolfpack defeats Bravettes, earns home playoff game
On to the playoffs.

Whitefish Independent students create walking tour

Camp Misery
Park road open to Avalanche Creek
After sufficient melting and additional plowing, Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road was opened to Avalanche Creek for vehicle traffic on Wednesday. Temporary parking is available at the Avalanche Picnic Area and Campground.
'Pack dominate divisional
Bates siblings win singles titles; Mathison, Walton repeat in doubles
Technically, bragging rights in the Bates family really belong to the youngest - Kellen, a sophomore.
Friday, May 13
Osama bin Laden: How al-Qaida's No. 1 lived, died

Riding into Town
Convicted: US autoworker gets 5 years for Nazi crimes

Andrew Crawford

Construction silhouette
Four recycling events scheduled May 20-21
Flathead County residents have a few opportunities this month to properly dispose of or recycle specific types of trash.
Track tuneup
For some, it was the last track meet of the year. For others, it was the last chance to be laid-back.
C.F. manager taking Kalispell job
After a nearly 10-year career as city manager, Bill Shaw is leaving Columbia Falls to become the public works director for the city of Kalispell.
A lot on the line for softball
TODAY: Doubleheader beginning at 4 p.m.

Harry Clarence Johnson, 97
Harry Clarence Johnson, 97, passed away peacefully on Saturday, May 7, 2011, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home.

Boarder rockets into aerospace engineering via FVCC
At college graduation tonight, former professional snowboarder Andrew Crawford, 32, rockets forward, finishing the first stage of his quest for a future in aerospace work.
FVCC graduates record class of 388 tonight
Flathead Valley Community College graduates a record-breaking 388 students at 7 p.m. today at the Christian Center at 255 Summit Ridge Drive.

KRMC crane waits for steel to lift
A 160-foot high crane with a 262-foot radius has added a new dimension to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center skyline as building progresses on a new surgical tower.

Alive to fight another day
Flathead duo regroups, advances; Glacier puts 14 in semifinals
Things were looking pretty bleak for Flathead's top doubles team Thursday during opening-day action at the Northern AA divisional tennis tournament on the courts at Flathead Valley Community College.
Two men rescued after boat capsizes
Two men were plucked from Smith Lake west of Kalispell on Tuesday evening after spending more than an hour in the frigid water when their boat capsized, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.
Thursday, May 12

Synergy Aircraft

FHS Artist in Residence Mural

Tennis: AA Divisional at FVCC
Killing bin Laden: Poll says most Americans approve
Wolfpack looks to net more titles at divisional
Last year it was a memorable performance by the Glacier High School tennis team at the Northern AA divisional tournament.
Elizabeth 'Betty' M. Morine, 82
Elizabeth “Betty” M. Morine, 82, passed away on Friday, May 6, 2011, in Denver.
Triplett cashing in on bull circuit
He may be a rookie, but he’s riding more like a seasoned pro.
Marvin Johnson, 85
Marvin Johnson, 85, passed away of natural causes, on May 2, 2011, in Kalispell.

Highway traffic to be constricted
Tunnel job will trim road to two lanes
Traffic delays are expected to intensify this weekend as work continues on the pedestrian tunnel underneath U.S. 93 near Grandview and Four Mile Drive.
Twins' offense heats up in 18-6 victory over Libby
WHITEFISH - Maybe it was the weather?
New allegations leveled against Lakeside plan effort
An amended complaint was filed April 26 against Flathead County and the Lakeside Neighborhood Planning Committee regarding the Lakeside neighborhood plan.
40,000-pound concrete sections built in a hurry
The box culverts used to form the pedestrian tunnel currently under construction on U.S. 93 at Flathead Valley Community College didn’t have to travel far.
Tax break was wisely rejected
Nice try, Glencore, but no way.
Warm weather accelerates river flow forecast
The National Weather Service has once again accelerated flow forecasts for some rivers in Northwest Montana due to ongoing warm weather.
Wednesday, May 11
everything Glacier Gateway css

Traffic congestion begins near FVCC

The Egg Game

Artist Sunti Pichetchaiyakul, left, and Thay Linh Dat from Michigan
Sophia Dannell Harding
Sophia Dannell Harding, daughter of Rodney and Brenda Harding of Kalispell, was born April 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Blessing ceremony for new Buddha sculpture
Jett Oliver Ellingson
Jett Oliver Ellingson, son of Brittan and Lauren Ellingson of Whitefish, was born April 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Emma Marie Ford
Emma Marie Ford, daughter of Greg Ford and Teresa Van Vleet of Somers, was born April 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Here comes the melt: Rivers, streams rising
A trend of warmer weather will settle in over Western Montana this week and the deep mountain snowpack finally will start to melt, with rivers and streams expected to approach or exceed flood stage by the middle of next week.
Some forest campgrounds open Thursday
Holland Lake, Swan Lake and Big Creek campgrounds on the Flathead National Forest will open to the public on Thursday, May 12.
Aydenn Richard Goulet
Aydenn Richard Goulet, son of Justin and Sarah Goulet of Kalispell, was born April 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Noreen Hazel Bjork

Overhaul of historic hotel resumes
Construction will close down 100 rooms this year
Rehabilitation work at the historic Many Glacier Hotel in
Sheriff to direct flood efforts
Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry is at the top of the county’s command list related to flood issues, county commissioners were told Tuesday.
Cheyenne Rossilyn Bieber
Cheyenne Rossilyn Bieber, daughter of Wayne and Kristina Bieber of Kalsipell, was born April 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Suspect's bid to drop burglary charge rejected
Flathead District Court Judge Stewart Stadler has denied an accused murderer’s request to dismiss a felony burglary charge.
Free breast cancer screenings start May 20
A walk-in clinic that provides free breast cancer screening opens its doors to the public on Friday, May 20.
Porter Bennetts Shehan
Porter Bennetts Shehan, son of Joel Shehan and Quincy Bennetts of Kalispell, was born April 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

New Buddha sculpture
Brayden Lee Gasser
Brayden Lee Gasser, son of Lee Gasser and Chalsi Aldridge of Kalispell, was born April 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ronan girls eke out tennis win over Whitefish
WHITEFISH - All the pressure was on Ronan's Katelyn Matkovich and she responded.
CFAC tax waiver rejected
No tax break will be given to the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co., following unanimous votes Monday against such a plan by both the Flathead County commissioners and the Columbia Falls school board.

Buddha blessing
Cam Linh Vu, third from left, and others from the Linhson Temple in Belmont, Mich., say thanks to Erica and Sunti Pichetchaiyakul after a blessing ceremony for a new Buddha sculpture on Tuesday morning in Bigfork. The Buddha is destined for the Michigan temple. “We have no words for how grateful we are,” said Cam Linh Vu. “We cannot thank Sunti enough for his contribution to our temple. We are so fortunate to receive the work of such a talented artist. He truly has created a unique and individualized sculpture of Buddha for our temple and our community.”
Weather prompts forest road limits
Changing weather and snow conditions are creating soft road surfaces and spring “break-up” conditions on many Flathead National Forest roads, prompting temporary road closures and load limits across the forest.
Peyton Alexander Sudan Kalagian
Peyton Alexander Sudan Kalagian, son of Michael Kalagian and Breann Sue Sudan of Kalispell, was born April 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Project: Many Glacier
Libby softball splits with Kalispell
LIBBY - Beautiful day with some fan-friendly softball.
Adoni AliceAnn Hanson
Adoni AliceAnn Hanson, daughter of Colten and Jessi Hanson of Columbia Falls, was born May 1 at North Valley Hospital.
Tuesday, May 10
Candidate Gingrich: Former Speaker seeks presidency

Plein Air Painting
Long Island bodies: Police suspect at least 2 killers
Phil Jackson: Record-breaking coach retires
Daybook
Tuesday
Medicare patrollers offer seminars
Winnie Greenshields, Flathead Valley Coordinator for Senior Medicare Patrol, has a passion for helping people understand Medicare and for stopping fraud and abuse of program dollars.

Ken Bjorge Profile
Thomas Eddie Brown, 61
Thomas Eddie Brown, 61, a resident of the Flathead Valley for many years, was critically injured in a motorcycle accident in York, Pa., on April 30, and died on May 5, 2011.
Dust control planned on 42 miles of county roads
The placement of a dust-control product on 42 miles of gravel roads in Flathead County is scheduled to begin around June 1.
Darwin Keith Berosik, 44
Darwin Keith Berosik passed away Saturday, May 7, 2011, from a longtime illness. He was 44 years of age.
Canines suspected of cannabis use
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday from a Northwoods Drive resident who said her dog was acting sick. She took it to a veterinarian who determined that the dog had ingested marijuana, and it turned out that a neighbor made a similar report in February. Both reporting parties suspected their pets ingested marijuana at a neighboring residence.
Amtrak stations getting upgrades
Amtrak stations across Northwest Montana are getting a facelift.

Bigfork artist sculpts Heisman winners
For months, Bigfork artist Ken Bjorge has worked in secret on monumental sculptures of three football greats and a bust of a coach and football pioneer, all tied to Auburn University in Alabama.
Monday, May 9

Barth commits to Bobcats
Columbia Falls junior quarterback picks Montana State
Austin Barth was sitting in a morning math class in mid-April when his football coach yanked him out of the classroom.

Austin Barth
Cadence Gretchen Hansen
Cadence Gretchen Hansen, daughter of Nate Hansen and Jessi Groves of Bigfork, was born April 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Fisher James Slaten
Fisher James Slaten, son of Mark and Kimberly Slaten, was born May 1 at North Valley Hospital.
Trey Nathaniel Fauske
Trey Nathaniel Fauske. son of Shawn and Carla Fauske of Kalispell, was born April 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Whitefish student nears end of West Point years
West Point went wild last week when the world's most wanted terrorist was declared dead.

Troy band headed to France
A look at the show listings on the Copper Mountain Band's website is a good indicator of how the Troy country band is holding on to its small-town roots while making a break for the wider world.
Natalia Rae Mata
Natalia Rae Mata, daughter of Armando Mata Jr., and Amanda Mata of Columbia Falls, was born April 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Tyesen James Evans
Tyesen James Evans, son of James and Megan Evans of Kalispell, was born April 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Carson Thomas Harvey
Carson Thomas Harvey, son of Leevi and Cindy Harvey of Kalispell, was born April 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Man ticketed after threatening store clerk
Clarice Marino
Clarice Marino, daughter of John and Courtnie Marino of Bigfork, was born April 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Schools opt for new info system
Kalispell schools will be better equipped to track student data next year.
Ian Robert Sue Todd
Ian Robert Sue Todd, son of Ely and Crystal Todd of Kalispell, was born April 28 at North Valley Hospital.
Ethan James Gunderson
Ethan James Gunderson, son of Brandon and Melissa Gunderson of Kalispell, was born April 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Brayden Lea Reum
Brayden Lea Reum, son of Cory Reum and Jamee Quigle of Kalispell, was born April 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Zephyr James Long
Zephyr James Long, son of Aaron and Tara Long of Kalispell, was born May 3 at North Valley Hospital.
Carter Jackson Waller
Carter Jackson Waller, son of Greg Waller and Ariane Streeter of Kalispell, was born April 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Somers-Lakeside district gets new superintendent
Casey Love will take over as head of the Somers-Lakeside School District next fall.
Sunday, May 8
Senator calls forest bill 'responsible plan for Montana'
As required by my provision in a recent federal law, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service last week removed Montana’s wolves from the Endangered Species List and returned their management to state biologists. It is a bipartisan victory that recognizes Montana’s wolf recovery as a success. As your senator, it’s my job to find solutions that are right for Montana, no matter how controversial or tough the issue is.
Lakers split in Bozeman
BOZEMAN - Kalispell broke a 4-all tie with a 3-run fifth inning to beat the Bozeman Bucks 7-4 on Saturday in Class AA American Legion baseball action.
Senators question CFAC tax relief
County hearing planned Monday
Montana’s U.S. senators have expressed concern about a request that Flathead County waive 95 percent of the 2010 property tax bill for the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co.
Whitefish plans pay raises
With an improving economy and better-than-expected increases in resort-tax revenue last year, the city of Whitefish has proposed a 3.3 percent pay increase for city workers.
Flooding could start this week
The National Weather Service expects mountain snowpack to begin melting at a more rapid rate beginning Wednesday and extending through Friday, according to a weather outlook released Saturday afternoon.

Torrents of rain, miles of misery: 1964
When torrential rains poured on top of a heavy mountain snowpack
Letters detail a mother's concern in long-ago war
There is perhaps no greater burden for a mother than to have her children put in harm’s way, especially during times of war. The worry and anxiety must at times be excruciating for these mothers; I can only imagine.
Kellen Bates wins singles title at invite
HELENA - Glacier's Kellen Bates took care of business over the weekend, winning four straight matches, two on Saturday, to win the No. 1 singles title at the Helena Invitational tennis tournament.
Twins sweep Belgrade
BELGRADE - The Glacier Twins used a five-run rally in the top of the seventh inning to down Belgrade 8-7 in the second game of an American Legion baseball doubleheader.

Restoring grandeur of old courthouse
Generally, every day one or two people wander as close as they can to the fenced-off original Flathead County Courthouse to see the source of the sounds coming from the now-unoccupied three-story building.

Bright spots at Archie Roe
One was a senior in his final Archie Roe Invitational track meet. Another was a freshman in her first.
Bitterroot Red Sox down Libby
LIBBY - Bitterroot scored eight runs in the first inning en route to a 14-7 American Legion baseball victory over the Libby Loggers on Saturday.

Flood of memories: Mountain snows, valley rains a disastrous combination in 1964
The 1964 flood was caused by extended, torrential rains combining with near-record mountain snowpacks. It is the largest flood on record for the Flathead River, as well as for the Sun River and several other rivers across northwest Montana.
Bitterroot Blaze defeat Knights
The Daily Inter Lake
A close-up look at Montana politics
Those who attended the “Politics @ the PAC” forum in Whitefish last week got a good glimpse into just how dynamic and complicated politics in Helena can be.

Courthouse renovation
Duford hits, pitches Polson to a pair of 10-run rule wins
POLSON - Shalaina Duford batted 6-for-7 on the day with three triples and a two-run home run as the Polson softball team picked up two 10-run rule victories on Saturday.
This time, Obama deserves credit for doing right thing
There is no sense of closure, nor should there be, as a result of the death of Osama bin Laden.
Saturday, May 7

Archie Roe Track and Field Invitational
Another talented field for Archie Roe
Around this time of year, longtime Flathead track coach Dan Hodge likes to see his athletes participate in a big, competitive meet.
Whitefish honors host of top scholars
Ninety-two students earned straight A’s during the past two semesters at Whitefish High School.
Veto gets warm reception in Whitefish
Gov. Brian Schweitzer’s veto of House Bill 316 in Whitefish Thursday was well received at a forum heavily attended by representatives of the Flathead Valley tourism industry.

East-side vista

Wanda H. Bears
Found body report proved false

Roberta L. Brown, 81
Cancer claimed the life of Roberta L. Brown at Brendan House on May 3, 2011.

Students dig deep to help lunch worker
The Evergreen Junior High School gym was decked out recently with black lights and glow-in-the-dark paint. Students in white or neon clothes danced with glow sticks or snacked on pizza.
Coach Finberg to pull double duty
Will oversee both the boys, girls basketball programs at Columbia Falls
Cary Finberg, who has guided the Columbia Falls boys basketball program to four Class A state championships, hopes he can achieve the same success with the girls program starting with the next school year.
Ruth Louise Piper, 79
Ruth was born to Abe and Thelma Stemmene in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, Feb. 11, 1932. She attended school there and graduated in 1950.
Madeline Casey Hendrigsman, 90
Madeline passed on April 7, 2011, at her home in Rancho Cucamonga, Calif., of natural causes. Her youngest grandchild, Nate Kirchoff, (25) was at her bedside. “During her transition from this life to the next, he held one hand as God took her other hand.” He said, “She was pure love” and that’s how he’ll remember her.
County polishing up its flood planning
Emergency management officials in Flathead County are meeting frequently to develop plans for rallying the community if the threat of flooding becomes imminent or if flooding occurs.

Roberta L Brown
Commissioners want library factions to sit down, talk
Flathead County commissioners were frustrated after learning Monday that county Library Board members hadn’t sat down for any official meetings with the Whitefish Community Library Board to hash out their disagreements about the division of assets once the county closes its branch library in Whitefish and the city begins operating a library.

Bravettes split with Hellgate
Error-free.
Friday, May 6

Flathead vs. Missoula Hellgate Softball

Copper Mountain

Anne Danczyk
Ground zero: President lays wreath for 9/11 victims

Columbia Falls flooding

Evergreen flooding

West Glacier bridge
everything DIY
everything Services css
everything Home Improvement css
everything FVServices css
everything Westshorenews css
everything Whitefish css
everything Kalispell css
everything Columbia Falls css
everything bigfork css

Pita Pit Remodeling

Historic Restoration

National Prayer Day

Tricia Page

Master Gardening Class
John Guralchuk Jr., 82
John Guralchuk Jr., 82, died May 4, 2011, at his home in Lakeside, with his wife Judy at his side, after a courageous fight with lung cancer. John had never smoked and lived an exemplary healthy lifestyle.
Bigfork netters roll by Ronan
BIGFORK - It was a near-perfect day (score- wise) for Bigfork in a nonconference tennis outing versus Class A Ronan.
Polson pulls away from Libby
LIBBY - Softball fans who attended Thursday's Northwestern A contest between the homestanding Loggers and Polson Pirates were treated to a whole lot of offense.

Governor visits Whitefish

Governor, lawmakers share session insights
Schweitzer: ‘We managed to survive the recession’
Gov. Brian Schweitzer and a panel of Republican lawmakers from the Flathead Valley sized up some successes from the recently concluded legislative session, and they traded some jabs over failures during a Politics @ the PAC event Thursday at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.
Two arrested in alleged beating over drug debt
An apparent attempt at collecting a drug debt landed two men in jail Wednesday night after they allegedly beat a Hungry Horse man with a sawed-off shotgun, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.
C-Falls, Whitefish netters split duals
The Columbia Falls boys used three wins in singles play and followed with wins at Nos. 1 and 3 doubles to claim a 5-2 dual win over Whitefish on Thursday in Columbia Falls.
Sparky the fire education dog coming to Kalispell
Fire safety education will be resumed soon in Kalispell, thanks to a grant obtained by the Kalispell Fire Department.
Kalispell principal named tops in state
Montana’s school counselors have chosen a Kalispell principal as the state’s top administrator.

Crowd calls for veto of marijuana restrictions
A crowd of people lined the streets near the Whitefish Performing Arts Center on Thursday to urge Gov. Brian Schweitzer to stop a bill that is expected to effectively bring an end to the state’s medical marijuana industry.

Wanda Harubin Bears, 93
Wanda H. Bears, 93, of Kalispell passed away Friday, April 29, 2011, at her residence in Kalispell.

Patricia 'Tricia' Page, 57
Patricia "Tricia" Page, 57, was born in Jackson Hole, Wyo., on Aug. 14, 1953, to Paul and Karlann Coughlin. On Thursday, April 28, 2011, at 5 a.m., “Tricia completed her journey with us.”
Bigfork's Keenan shoots 86 to claim medalist honors
ST. REGIS - Bigfork's Sara Keenan shot an 86 on Thursday to easily claim medalist honors at the St. Regis Golf Tournament.
Manny Pacquaio: At the top of his game
Thursday, May 5
Closer to sainthood: Pope John Paul II to be beatified
Royal wedding photos

Ken Bjorge Profile

Danette Mitchell
Palestinian unity deal: Fatah and Hamas reconcile
everything services

Whitefish Independent Students Create Walking Tour

Pot Protest in Whitefish
Beyond Mubarak: Egypt in transition
National wildfire tracker
Forestry Expo open to public Saturday
About 1,200 fifth-graders have marched through the Trumbull Creek Educational Forest this week, but on Saturday the 22nd annual Family Forestry Expo will be open to everybody.
Parker Lyle Dennison
Parker Lyle Dennison, son of Samuel and Heidi Dennison of Kalispell, was born April 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Korbin Charles Wetzel
Korbin Charles Wetzel, son of Joel Wetzel and Bethany Osborn of Kalispell, was born April 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ronan team wins robotics title championships
Squad bests all opponents to take world championship
Hadassah Joy Brake
Hadassah Joy Brake, daughter of John and Jaye Lynn Brake of Kalispell, was born April 18 at North Valley Hospital.
Land Mitchell Heidegger
Land Mitchell Heidegger, son of Mitchell and Stacy Heidegger of Kila, was born March 28 at North Valley Hospital.
Avery Jane Stevens
Avery Jane Stevens, daughter of Andrew Stevens and Shaina Jackson of Kalispell, was born April 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rowan Jeffrey Robert Lynn
Rowan Jeffrey Robert Lynn, son of Clayton and Marina Lynn, was born April 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Cole David Sarda
Cole David Sarda, son of Joel and Rosie Sarda of Kalispell, was born April 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Wolves are off the list again
State proposing hunt quota of 220
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service issued a final rule Wednesday that officially removes wolves in Montana and Idaho from the Endangered Species list.
Lower police raise request may still be too high for city
The Kalispell Police Association requested a slightly lower cost-of-living adjustment during contract negotiations on Wednesday, but the city stood its ground.
Ellie Elaine Schmeusser
Ellie Elaine Schmeusser, daughter of Brittany Schmeusser of Kalispell, was born April 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Savanna Nihcole Koelzer
Savanna Nihcole Koelzer, daughter of Rob and Nihcole Koelzer of Kalispell, was born April 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rylie Marie Jackson
Rylie Marie Jackson, daughter of Cody and Bobbi Jackson of Columbia Falls, was born April 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Opening of the Kalispell Goodwill
Bryce Woods
Bryce Woods, son of Craig and Lisa Woods of Kalispell, was born April 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kalispell lawyer nominated for U.S. judge post
HELENA (AP) — President Barack Obama has nominated a Kalispell attorney to replace retiring U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy.
Madison Jewell Carr
Madison Jewell Carr, daughter of Katherine Carr of Lakeside, was born April 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
CF Veterans Wall left in the dark by vandalism
Bill Schulte says lights that days ago shone brightly on the Columbia Falls Area Veterans Wall were meant to ensure that the names of those who served America “were never left in the dark.”
Evelyn Annalise Dowler
Evelyn Annalise Dowler, daughter of Luke and Jacy Dowler of Kalispell, was born April 21 at North Valley Hospital.
Anthony Blake Clark
Anthony Blake Clark, son of Brad and Jessie Clark of Columbia Falls, was born April 5 at North Valley Hospital.
Twins AA down Libby
LIBBY - Devyn Rocker was 3-for-4 with an RBI and Jeremy Nielson was 2-for-4 with two RBI as the Glacier Twins AA defeated host Libby 13-2 in an American Legion baseball contest on Tuesday.
Keaton River Hogan
Keaton River Hogan, son of Jimmie Hogan and Niki Barton of Columbia Falls, was born April 18 at North Valley Hospital.

The world-champion Ronan Robotics Team
Cody Katzer
Cody Katzer, son of Cody and Brittany Katzer of Kalispell, was born April 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ayden Marie Paskell
Ayden Marie Paskell, daughter of Hansen and Amy Paskell of Kalispell, was born April 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Madison Elizabeth-Marie Peters
Madison Elizabeth-Marie Peters, daughter of Josh and Sarah Peters of Kalispell, was born April 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Brody Michael Stacy
Brody Michael Stacy, son of Cody Stacy and Lacey Hader of Columbia Falls, was born April 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Wednesday, May 4
New Intel chip: Construction gives chips room to expand
Cambodia-Thailand: Clashes continue
fastoys Chroma Key Video
Royal wedding: Prince William marries Kate Middleton
McLean, Eaves combine on no-hitter for Lakers
Matt McLean and Dillon Eaves combined on a no-hitter and Joe Pistorese ripped a grand slam home run in the second inning as the Kalispell AA Lakers downed visiting Libby 11-1 on Tuesday in American Legion nonconference baseball play.

George Harper, 87
Rev. George Harper was born July 4, 1923, in Salem, Ohio, and died in Helena on May 2, 2011.
Bradford leads Eureka girls to Lincoln County track title
EUREKA - Jasmine Bradford won four individual events to lead Eureka to the team title in the annual Lincoln Country track meet on Tuesday.
Meeting takes up U.S. 2 plans for Bad Rock Canyon
Transportation planning for the Bad Rock Canyon highway corridor is the topic of a Thursday, May 12, meeting at Columbia Falls City Hall.

George Harper

Exploring Caravaggio
Fair Board considers alcohol sales
The possibility of selling beer and wine at the Northwest Montana Fair this summer in Kalispell is on the agenda for the May 12 Fair Board meeting.
Eight area athletes to play in Shodair Soccer Classic
Athletes from Bigfork, Flathead, Glacier and Libby high schools will play in the 12th annual Shodair Soccer Classic in Helena this summer.
City delays permit for group home
After much neighborhood opposition, the Kalispell City Council on Monday tabled a request for a conditional use permit for an adult care home.

Compton, Glacier check Polson
Wolfpack ride strong pitching, Quay HR for a 5-1 win over Pirates
College to honor three longtime professors
Flathead Valley Community College Board of Trustees, college President Jane Karas and the college faculty will recognize three emeritus honorees at a special celebration on the college campus on Friday, May 6.

Glacier rules crosstown, again
The second crosstown tennis match for Glacier and Flathead this spring was just like the first time.
Council ratifies fire pact
Kalispell City Council unanimously ratified a new firefighter contract on Monday.
Tuesday, May 3

Glacier Polson Softball

Kellen Bates of Glacier High School

Flathead vs. Glacier Tennis
How do you feel about Donald Trump running for president?
NFL Draft: Building blocks of the future
Yes, mission accomplished
Perseverance finally paid off for the United States in the pursuit of Osama bin Laden, and Americans should be proud of the gutsy operation that led to the death of the figurehead leader of al-Qaida.
Daybook
Tuesday
School issues face voters today
Polls will be open across the Flathead Valley for school elections today.
Local trio help storm victims
John and Marjorie Donoghue and Lew Savik of Kalispell have deployed with the Montana Red Cross to help victims from last week’s savage storms in the South.

Renee Marie McKeag-Waters, 49
Renee Marie McKeag-Waters, 49, lost her courageous eight-year battle with cancer “and became an angel” April 30, 2011, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell. She received excellent, compassionate, loving care until the end from Hospice provided by Home Options.

yost obit

Storm adds to already-deep snowpack
Mountain snowpack continued to pile up over the weekend in Northwest Montana, the result of a storm system that arrived Friday.

mcKeag Waters obit
Sherwood makes 1st cut for U.S. Army All-American Bowl
George Sherwood, a 6-foot-4, 201-pound junior wide receiver at Flathead High School, has passed the initial evaluation period for participation in the 2012 U.S. Army All-American Bowl football game.
Doctor headlines annual breast-cancer benefit luncheon
The annual Louise Burk Memorial Breast Cancer Awareness Luncheon in Eureka on Friday once again features a presentation by Dr. Melissa Hulvat, the co-director of the Bass Center-Breast Surgical Oncology at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Jay E. Yost, 52
Jay E. Yost, 52, of Eureka, died Sunday, May 1, 2011, in Eureka, from natural causes.
C-Falls sweeps Ronan in tennis dual
COLUMBIA FALLS - Undefeated in singles play and at No. 1 doubles gave Columbia Falls 5-2 victories over Ronan's boys and girls on Monday in a Northwestern A dual tennis match.
Whitefish man once led SEAL Team 6
The death of Osama bin Laden during a daring raid by U.S. Navy SEALs in Pakistan was an extremely complicated operation and an accomplishment that can’t be overstated, said state Sen. Ryan Zinke, a retired SEAL Team 6 commander.
Gas prices take their toll
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday regarding a theft of at least 100 gallons of gas from a storage tank on River Bend Drive.
Monday, May 2

Davis Cup Columbia Falls

Davis Cup Polson

Swiftcurrent Lake

Many Glacier Employee Housing

Many Glacier Buried Stop Sign

Stumptown Art Studio

Strawberry Patch Floral Arrangements

Strawberry Patch Baskets
Window-breaking spree reported
Officers from the

The 'Hat Lady' of West Glacier
Stacey Schnebel was traveling through West Glacier in 2000 when she decided to stay.
Scavenging a problem at green-box sites
Scavenging at the county's garbage drop-off sites continues to be a problem, the county's public works director told commissioners last week.
Bozeman takes 2 from Twins
WHITEFISH - If you could throw out the seventh inning, Glacier would have swept an American Legion AA baseball doubleheader with Bozeman on Sunday.
McLeod hurls no-hitter in 1st start for Lakers A
Hank McLeod, in his first Class A American Legion baseball start, threw a no-hitter in the second game of a doubleheader on Sunday, leading the Kalispell Lakers to a 10-0 victory over the Bitterroot Bucs.
Lakers AA rip Butte, lose to Helena
HELENA - Mike Bare hit a home run and drove in four runs to help the Kalispell Lakers whip Butte 13-3 on Sunday in American Legion baseball play.

President Obama announces death of bin Laden

Osama bin Laden
Sunday, May 1
Al-Qaida Head Bin Laden Dead

Celebrating the death of Bin Laden

Bin Laden killed in U.S. SEALs attack
WASHINGTON — Osama bin Laden, the terror mastermind killed by Navy SEALs in an intense firefight, was hunted down based on information first gleaned years ago from detainees at secret CIA prison sites in Eastern Europe, officials disclosed Monday. The U.S. said a DNA match proved the man behind the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, was dead, and millions of Americans rejoiced.
Three newcomers vie for Whitefish seats
There are three three-year seats up for grabs on the Whitefish school board and four candidates in the running for those positions.
Roland Horst
Seeking three-year term representing Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Whitefish high school districts on FVCC board.
Softball: FHS wins 17-inning thriller with Helena
HELENA - Sidney Alberts' RBI double with two outs in the 17th inning gave Flathead a thrilling 1-0 Western AA softball victory over Helena High on Saturday.
Nine seek college trustee positions
Voters must choose Tuesday from a crowded field of candidates in one of the most hotly contested races ever for four Flathead Valley Community College Board of Trustees positions.
Shannon Lund
Seeking two-year term representing Flathead/Glacier High School District on FVCC board.

Glen Ketcham

Glacier squads win A.R.M.
Firestone impresses in jumps
WHITEFISH - As one spectator said after Taylor Firestone leaped into the sand pit after his final triple jump, "You don't see that too often."

Top of the chops: Flathead Valley Community College logger sports team
Dedicated coaches, driven athletes lead small program to big success
It’s one of the last days of the season, a cloudy spring weekday, and Ryan Pearson swings his ax into a beaten-up log.
Michael Hebert
Seeking two-year term representing Flathead/Glacier High School District on FVCC board.

Walker Pannell Kuhl, 27
John Phelps
Seeking re-election to three-year term representing Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Whitefish high school districts on FVCC board.
Hayden Anthony Corbett,
Hayden Anthony Corbett, son of Anthony Corbett and Lyndsay Morine of Columbia Falls, was born April 1 at North Valley Hospital.
Tom Harding
Seeking re-election to three-year term representing Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Whitefish high school districts on FVCC board.
Six candidates running for 3 Columbia Falls positions
There are six candidates for three open positions on the Columbia Falls school board. All are running for full, three-year terms.

Paul A. 'Mike' Mueller, 84, and Eunice W. Mueller, 81
Glenn Wehe
Seeking three-year term representing Columbia Falls, Bigfork and Whitefish high school districts on FVCC board.
Maria Alana Wiest
Maria Alana Wiest, daughter of Andrew and Marianne Wiest of Kalispell, was born April 3 at North Valley Hospital.
Glen Russell Ketcham, 78
Glen Russell Ketcham, 78, passed away on April 19, 2011, at the Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center in Whitefish.
Challenger, incumbent compete in Smith Valley
Two candidates are vying for one open three-year seat on the Smith Valley school board.
Robert Nystuen
Seeking re-election to three-year term representing the Flathead/Glacier High School District on FVCC board.
New direction not needed at FVCC
In one corner, the “challengers.”
Eminent domain as seen from the landowner's perspective
I would like to offer my opinion on HB198 as a landowner affected by the line.
Why I tore up my AARP card: Does AARP represent the best interests of seniors?
About the year 2005, my AARP membership card was cut up and trashed because many of the self-serving advocacies of AARP no longer represented what I believed to be in the best interests of seniors and my personal beliefs. As time progressed, circumstances have justified my decision.
Tim Baldwin
Tim Baldwin
Two candidates seek Kalispell school board seat
District coversarea to the west of Kalispell
There are two candidates for a three-year seat on Kalispell Public Schools’ board of trustees.

Teams play on at MidSeason tourney weathers the storm
The Kalispell Youth Softball Association's MidSeason Tournament completes its three-day run at Kidsports Complex this afternoon.
Ed Berry
Ed Berry
Why you should see - and then read - 'Atlas Shrugged'
“What’s their fear of Ayn Rand? They hate this woman. They hate individualism.”