Ellington

GOP hopefuls debate in Whitefish

Five politicians get a chance to give the performance of their lives Wednesday when they converge on the Whitefish Performing Arts Center for the first local gubernatorial debate of the year.

Roof skaters scram when spotted

A caller told the

Bernhardson

Frank Mutch

Frank Mutch

Scott Reichner

Marie Therese Ohaneson, 94

Scenario Training at KRMC

Wade Rademacher of the Kalispell Police races out to protect the released hostage in the gunman scenario training exercise on Monday at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Rademacher was the incident commander for the event.

Robert 'Bob' Rechtsteiner, 87

Glacier Symphony

Glacier High School band director David Barr, left, and members of the Glacier Symphony performing the Rachmaninoff Concerto Number 3 in D minor on Sunday afternoon, April 29, at Flathead High School. This was the final full performance of the symphony for the season. Their next event is a performance of the Glacier String Quartet on May 11 at the John Paul II Catholic Parish in Bigfork and on May 12 at the Whitefish United Methodist Church. Both performances begin at 7:30 p.m. David Barr has been a member of the symphony since 2004.

Mariners hand Rangers 1st loss of Legion season

EUREKA — Mission Valley A handed the Kootenai Valley Rangers their first loss of the American Legion baseball season Sunday afternoon at the Earl Russell Round Robin Tournament.

Woman says 'dirty cop' stole money, meds

A woman who was arrested Thursday night called the

House District 4

Ed Lieser is running against Tom Muri in the Democratic primary election for House District 4.

HD 4 Democrats talk taxes, 'doughnut' dilemma

Property taxes, water quality and a resolution for the Whitefish “doughnut” jurisdictional dilemma are top issues in House District 4, where Democrats Tom Muri and Ed Lieser face off in the June 5 primary election.

Monday Profile

Park is pictured during his time undercover with the Outlaws Motorcycle Club.

Kenneth Park

Prosecutor has a wild law-enforcement past

What do terrorist-attack response, multimillion-dollar drug busts and undercover infiltration of motorcycle gangs have in common?

Robert Feddersen

Robert Feddersen, 88

Robert “Feddy” Feddersen, 88, passed away Wednesday, April 11, 2012.

Mike Shepard

Mike Shepard - County Commission District 1

Flathead County commissioner candidate Mike Shepard says he wouldn’t need on-the-job training if elected.

Bucking horse futurity planned

The World Class Bucking Horse Association opens its season May 4-5 with the Pecora Professional Bucking Horse Futurity at Majestic Valley Arena.

Quadruplet kindergartners adapting to life in Bigfork

Chances were slim to none that Wendy Stanislao would ever have children.

Local restaurant helps feed the hungry

Homeless residents who have been helped by A Ray of Hope shelter in Kalispell got an extra helping of community care on Saturday when Louie’s Deli & Grill served a meal to about 40 people in need.

Students get chance for free ACT tests

 Bigfork and Whitefish High School juniors sharpened their No. 2 pencils Tuesday to take the ACT Plus Writing college readiness exam for free.

Engineer sought for industrial park

The Flathead County Economic Development Authority is looking for an engineering firm to help it build a 40-acre industrial park with rail access just outside the Kalispell city limits.

Majestic Valley marks 10-year milestone

‘Ups and downs’ have been part of growth

The idea for a world-class indoor arena in the Flathead Valley sprang from a rather simple need: Local cowboys needed a place to be cowboys.

Get informed, then vote

Many voters dread it, but the time has come to wake up and smell the candidates to figure out who deserves your vote. The Daily Inter Lake aims to help inform you as you make your decisions.

KPS superintendent explains levy requests

The Board of Trustees of Kalispell Public Schools will provide the opportunity for members of our community to vote on two levies on May 8.  

Daybook

President getting bum rap over oil and energy policies

President Obama is taking a lot of heat from his critics for the rising gasoline prices. Unfairly so, I believe.

Stanislao Quadruplets

Kootenai Valley 6-0; Libby splits with Glacier, Mission Valley

EUREKA — Kootenai Valley did the bulk of its scoring early, leading 7-0 after three inning on its way to an 8-4 American Legion baseball victory on Saturday over the Mission Valley B Mariners at the Earl Russell Round Robin tournament.

Glacier, Flathead claim tennis titles at Missoula Invitational

MISSOULA — It was all Glacier in the No. 1 singles tennis final on Saturday at the Missoula Invitational.

Loggers 4-0 at Frenchtown softball tournament

FRENCHTOWN — The Libby Loggers enjoyed a terrific weekend at the Frenchtown softball tournament, going 4-0 with wins Saturday over Stevensville, 16-9, and Butte Central, 10-2.

Track records tumble at A.R.M. Invitational

WHITEFISH — It was a record-setting day at Whitefish High School on Saturday as four athletes set seven new meet records at the A.R.M. Invitational.

Hunter Bentley

Hunter Bentley, son of John and Chelsea Bentley, was born Jan. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

Rogozynski's catch saves Wolfpack in 6-5 win over Capital

Saturday brought another upset for the Glacier Wolfpack softball team.

Bravettes rally by Helena; fall 3 short against Capital

Flathead managed to rally for one victory — a 3-2 triumph over Helena High — but left the bases loaded a couple times in the second outing versus Helena Capital and came up short, losing 3-0.

Deputies drive home mud-covered man

A woman contacted the

Fixing Flathead: Backlog of needed repairs piles up

On a recent school tour, Flathead High School Principal Peter Fusaro walks to the east main office entrance of the school.

Alden Thomas Harris Sr., 93

Alden Thomas Harris Sr., 93

Robert 'Bob' Rechtsteiner, 87

Robert "Bob" Rechtsteiner, 87, passed away on Tuesday, April 24, 2012, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Jean DeVall, 79

Jean DeVall, 79, a longtime resident of Whitefish, passed away April 4, 2012, at her home in Mesa, Ariz.

Thomas Melvin Anthony Conrad, 26

Thomas Melvin Anthony Conrad, 26, passed away Tuesday, April 24, 2012, in Sacramento.

A parable for our times

If you want to know how screwed up this country is, consider the parable of the two singers.

Crosstown Smoker Reprints

Local restaurant feeds the hungry

Brian Reed loads a combination of meet, cheese and grilled veggies into a freshly toasted bun on Saturday afternoon at Louie's Deli & Grill in Kalispell. The Bronx Bomber, the shop's most popular sandwich, was served to about 40 people from A Ray of Hope on Saturday afternoon.

A.R.M. Invitational at Whitefish

Columbia Falls sophomore Mark Harder competes in the varsity boys javelin on Saturday morning, April 28, at the A.R.M. Invitational in Whitefish.

Montana State Freestyle/Greco Championships

Eric Dolence, 9, of Ronan, in red, wrestling with Duane Otto, 9, of Lewistown, Mont., on Saturday morning, April 28, at the Montana State Freestyle/Greco Championships at the Majestic Valley Arena. Dolence won the match up with a technical fall.

Community college trustee candidates vie for votes

College trustee candidates Jerry Elwood and Michael Hebert vied for votes Thursday at a lightly attended candidates forum sponsored by the Faculty Senate.

Bigfork map wizards show their stuff

Flathead Valley has mountains of environmental data waiting for Bigfork High School students in Geographic Information Systems classes to collect, analyze and make sense of, often for the benefit of state and federal agencies.

Flooding closes Sun Road

Flooding caused a short closure Friday morning of Going-to-the-Sun Road along Lake McDonald in Glacier National Park.

Doug Adams - County Commission District 1

Doug Adams said he had thought about running for Flathead County commissioner for many years and when a vacancy was created this spring, he filed for the office.

Music students rack up festival honors

About 1,500 musicians participated in a three-day District 1 Music Festival.

Skeletal remains found

An excavation project for a pond expansion turned up a surprise Friday: a human skull and other bones.

Daybook

A.R.M. Invitational attracts large field, top athletes

Most of the top track teams in Northwest Montana will descend on Whitefish today for the A.R.M. Invitational.

Rapids soccer event a big draw

Fans of soccer were the big winners at this event.

Kootenai Valley drops Lakers; moves to 5-0

EUREKA — Ryan Holder, RJ Glover and Dalton Smith combined on a two-hitter as Kootenai Valley blanked the Kalispell Lakers A 2-0 on Friday in the Earl Russell Round Robin American Legion baseball tournament.

Polson splits; Libby posts 2 wins at Frenchtown tourney

FRENCHTOWN — Two home runs for Heidi Rausch, two doubles for Ashley Johnson, a triple for Jessica Bagnell — 15 hits in all — the Polson Pirates blasted Anaconda 16-2 in their opening game at the Frenchtown tournament on Friday.

Netters tune-up for Bitterroot Invite

Whitefish and Polson earned a split in Class A boys dual tennis action on Friday in the Bitterroot Valley.

Thomas Melvin Anthony Conrad, 26

Sliter

Caribou rescued

What started out as an unusual hunt for a dead caribou that wandered south of Eureka from Canada turned out to be an animal  rescue mission Thursday for Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologists.

Cave Club

Sandi Baker, a Bigfork High School junior and Cave Club member, prepares to establish monitoring for biological resources at a cave entrance within the Grand Canyon. The club made its second trip to the canyon earlier this month to continue extensive monitoring and mapping of cave environments. The success and national recognition of the Cave Club paved the way for establishing Geographic Information Systems classes at the high school and middle school.

Unwelcome surprise at Hungry Horse home

Deputies with the

Wes Tuma, 83

Caribou rescued: Animal will rejoin its B.C. herd

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks transported this cow caribou from south of Eureka, where it had wandered, back to British Columbia.

Book clubs plan May meetings

Several local book clubs have meetings scheduled for early May:

Adams

Auction to benefit photo nonprofit

The Walking Man Frame Shop and Gallery will host a gallery exhibit and fundraiser for Youth Image Project as part of Whitefish Gallery Nights.

Village Greens

Western State Insurance Agency

4-West showroom

Ford Excursion 4×4

The ultimate in rugged Montana luxury transportation for up to seven passengers.

Executive Icon

The ICON seats up to eight guests and includes:

Make this moment a memory...

We are known for our modern, spotlessly clean vehicles, on-time performance, and courteous service. We are the Valley’s

Ranked the #1 golf course in the state of Montana by Golfweek

#2 Best New Private Course in the USA by Golf Magazine

Lodging

When the hustle and bustle of city life catches up with you, a quiet getaway nestled in the embrace of the Rocky Mountains is the perfect place to relax, unwind and recharge. Our accommodations are suitable whether you are coming alone or with a group, for a family reunion, a couples’ retreat or a girls’ weekend away. Whether you are staying for the day, the weekend, the week or more, we pride ourselves on ensuring you feel comfortable and at home at Wilderness Club.

Golf

The Wilderness Club course is a golf experience you will not find anywhere else. Ranked the #1 golf course in the state of Montana by Golfweek, and the #2 Best New Private Course in the USA by Golf Magazine, the Wilderness Club leaves nothing to be desired. Paved pathways grant you unencumbered views of the spectacular surroundings to the lush all-grass driving range; the highest quality practice balls optimize your experience from the moment you step on the green; elegant, architecturally designed comfort stations beckon you to take a well-earned rest; and fully equipped, custom Precedent club cars provide the most comfortable mode of transport for a day of relaxation. We also have a Short Game Practice Area, the perfect place to work on your skills.

Real Estate

Imagine having the pristine greens of an award-winning golf course right outside your front door. Imagine going for an evening cruise in your own private golf cart, watching as the sun disappears behind the mountains and casts its gorgeous glow across the calm waters of Wilderness Lake. Imagine being surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of nature as you get back in touch with your friends, your family and yourself. Well you do not have to imagine; all this and more is waiting for you.

Greetings from Montana and Glacier National Park!

Shalayne Erickson

Shalayne has work in the Wild River Office for three years now. If you have questions about our trips or river, call Shalayne.

Chasta Markham

Chasta has worked for Wild River for 6 years. She helps the office run smoothly.

Ryan Dunn

Running rivers since 2001, love open canoeing, avid mountain biker, glacier park climber, Freda's bartender, and I love doing what I do, everyday is an adventure

Justin

With many years at Wild River, Justin is an avid whitewater guide. He also loves to tell stories and keep people laughing around Wild River.

Mike

Mike loves to fish. Even when he is not guiding a trip he is thinking of fishing. He is a great fly fishing instructor and his students are rumored to catch up to 50 fish per day.

Louie Lewis

Louie has guided rafts through the Grand Canyon and the rivers of Big Bend National Park in Texas. Louie is an avid fly fisherman and is one of our best all around guides. He is also our kitchen manager.

Korri & Jolie

Korri and her daughter Joli help see that the office runs smoothly around Wild River. They are always there to help you or answer your questions. They both enjoy the outdoors.

Brian Morchen

Brian's focus for the past twenty years has been river travel. He has rafted and kayaked in Australia, Mexico, Chile, and all over the United States. Now serving as one of our River Managers, Brian delights in passing on his knowledge and experience.

Bob Jordan

Bob has been the owner and Montana outfitter of Wild River Adventures since 1985. He has been running rivers for over 25 years, and in addition to being a licensed outfitter, is also a certified recreation therapist. He is an avid fisherman, skier, and climber and is actively involved in river conservation. Over the years, he has provided safe, memorable guided rafting trips to thousands of satisfied customers.

Special Olympics

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Robert Anderson competes in the shot put during the Special Olympics Montana Area Games at Legends Stadium Friday morning. Friday, April 27, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Design

District Music Festival Results

Members of the Polson Select Choir performing on Friday morning, April 13, at the District Music Festival in Kalispell.

Design Services

Wrights Furniture offers complete, personalized design services for your home or business.

Hebert

Elwood

HTML Link for this week Flathead460

Test HTML Link for this week Flathead

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Majestic Valley Arena marks 10-year milestone

Bob Pecora of Rexford, Mont., executive director of the World Class Bucking Horse Association.

Rob James

Dick and Karen Wright

Link to More stories from This Week in the Flathead

Laurel Desjarlais

Carol Waggener

Bob Kirchner

Gary Nelson

Assistant Manager/ Sales

Frank and Pamela Wright

Wright's Furniture

Stanislao Quadruplets

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake The only girl in a set of quadruplets, Bella Stanislao swings on the bar while her three brothers play on other equipment before a gymnastics class Thursday afternoon at the Bigfork Playhouse Children's Theater. Thursday, April 19, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.

Permit season for burning starts May 1

Outdoor burning permits, available online, will be required starting Tuesday, May 1, through June 30, according to a news release from the Interagency Burn Permit Center. 

Chase leads to 10-year suspended sentence

A 25-year-old Whitefish man was given a 10-year suspended sentence April 19 in Flathead District Court for leading police on a high-speed chase last year.

Bob Herron

Bob Herron

Bob Herron - County Commission District 3

Republican Bob Herron says his main goal, if elected Flathead County commissioner from District 3, would be “to work toward getting this Flathead economy up and running. I will work tirelessly to recruit new business to the valley and to get existing business to expand and grow.”

Get informed at GOP debate

Politics may not be for everyone, but voting is — and being an informed voter is the primary responsibility of every citizen.

Special Olympics scheduled today

Special Olympics Montana Area Games get under way today at several locations across the Flathead Valley.

Summer fair adds Spirit Fest event

Concert tickets go on sale Thursday, May 3

This summer’s Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo will feature live performances by acclaimed Christian singer and songwriter Steven Curtis Chapman on Tuesday, Aug. 14 and country music star Rodney Atkins on Wednesday, Aug. 15. 

Glacier Facebook a big hit

Glacier National Park has it going with social media, with the Glacier Facebook page recently surpassing 100,000 viewer “likes.”

Daybook

Hyatt bows out of commission race

Whitefish resident Chris Hyatt said Thursday morning he has withdrawn from the race for the open District 1 Flathead County commissioner position.

State wrestling this weekend at Majestic Valley Arena

It’s a first for the Flathead Valley.

Glacier picks up two big wins

If this is how the Glacier Wolfpack softball team plays in wet weather, head coach Joel Bemis says bring on the rain.

Big Sky slips past Bravettes

Missoula Big Sky used three singles to fuel a three-run burst in the top half of the seventh inning to pull away for a 5-1 victory over Flathead on a damp Thursday afternoon at the Conrad Complex.

Flathead boys, girls slosh to easy wins

Running in chilly temperatures and an intermittent rainstorm, Flathead slogged to victory on the track beating Missoula Hellgate and Missoula Sentinel in a triangular at Legends Stadium on Thursday.

Park plows reach Haystack Creek area

A Glacier National Park snowplow crew was making initial bulldozer cuts through the Haystack Creek area Thursday, while another crew was moving equipment to start plowing toward Logan Pass from the east.

Creston man turns in funny money

A concerned resident visited the

Flathead Softball

Flathead's Sidney Alberts fields a ball Thurdsay night during Flathead's loss to Big Sky at Conrad Complex. 

Glacier Softball

Glacier's Shayna Atlee drives in the first run with a groundout RBI Thurdsay night during Glacier's game against Missoula Big Sky at Kidsports Complex.

Tamera Lee Dorband, 52

Alden Thomas Harris Sr., 93

Patricia Louise Piper Ramseth, 59

Patricia Louise Piper Ramseth, 59, died Sunday, April 22, 2012, at her home.

Sowing Spring

Dale Fisher surveys the fields as he prepares to sow 65 acres of spring wheat on Thursday morning east of Kalispell.

Dinner helps ALERT

The biggest fundraising event of the year for the ALERT air ambulance service takes place Saturday at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

N. Dakota man pleads guilty in Ponzi scheme

The second of two men accused of running the biggest Ponzi scheme in Montana history pleaded guilty to mail fraud, wire fraud and 17 counts of money laundering during federal court proceedings in Missoula Wednesday.

Link to This Week's Entertainment Calendar

Candidate pulls out of state Senate primary

What had been a three-way Senate District 3 Republican primary race now is a two-man show, with Jayson Peters announcing that he is withdrawing his candidacy.

Man admits local burglary

A 22-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty in Flathead District Court on April 19 to a felony charge of burglary.

Man convicted of fifth DUI

A 53-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty by way of Alford in Flathead District Court on April 19 to his fifth offense of driving under the influence of alcohol.

Agency probes grizzly's death

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is investigating the death of a grizzly bear that was found in the Rhodes Draw area northwest of Kalispell.

Youth group seeks to connect kids with nature

Co-founders Karen South, Carlos Florey and co-director Carter Eash need help to keep children YAKIN.

Asperger's author presents information Saturday

Rudy Simone spent more than 40 years not knowing why her life was so difficult.

Daybook

Mike Schlegel - County Commission District 3

Mike Schlegel says he learned at an early age that people can make a difference if they choose to be involved in their communities.

School tours offered at Flathead

School tours will be offered at Flathead High School from 8:30 to noon Saturday.

GSA? Don't get us started!

The behavior of the General Services Administration bureaucrats who went wild in Las Vegas is jaw-dropping because of the crass, insulated arrogance of it all.

NFL Draft the best time of the season

The NFL draft is here. Finally.

Schlegel

Where's the party? These guys found it

The

Kalispell dance studio holds spring showcase

Dance Elements, a Kalispell studio that teaches jazz, funk and hip-hop dancing, held its Spring Dance Showcase, "All of the Lights," at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center April 20 and 21. The recital included a guest performance by Noble Dance, a Kalispell ballet studio.

Ski season one of busiest ever

Despite getting off to a slow start, the Whitefish Mountain Resort had a banner winter judging from skier statistics that were released Wednesday.

Squatter

A Canada goose sits in an osprey nest atop a power pole near Lakeside.

Brith Elin Hitland Sutherland, 61

Robert H. Blake, 89

Duane Harry Macal, 76

Duane Harry Macal, 76, of Columbia Falls, passed away Monday, April 23, 2012, at his home.

Scandals

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake J. J. Holden disc jockeys at Scandal's All Ages Night Club and Amusement Center Satuday night. Saturday, March, 10, 2012 in Kalispell, Mont.

This Week in the Flathead: Scandals

Photos | Reprints bar

Crown of the Continent Choir

From left, Leanne Roberts, Donna Marx, Julia McKay, Kathryn Friedman, Karen Moes practice with the Crown of the Continent Choir on Wednesday, April 18, at Flathead High School. The choir and Headwaters Ensemble will be presenting a multi-faith concert under the direction of Kevin Allen-Schmid at 7 p.m. on Sunday, April 29, at the O'Shaughnessy Performing Arts Center in Whitefish.

Dance Elements Spring Showcase

Krista Andersen, right, one of Dance Elements' founding members, takes part in the Spring Dance Showcase dress rehearsal Thursday, April 19, in Whitefish.

Pack your bags for chance at free trip

Allegiant and Glacier Park International Airport are celebrating the inaugural flight to the San Francisco Bay area via Oakland International Airport on Friday with a giveaway for free tickets.

Daybook

More open houses ahead on wayfinding signs

A project to create a system of wayfinding signs for Kalispell continues to move along.

Bass Center, hospital earn accreditation

Dr. Melissa Hulvat lauded the accreditations of the Bass Breast Center and Kalispell Regional Medical Center’s cancer programs as a big deal.

Gary Krueger - County Commission District 3

Gary Krueger says he’s running for the Flathead County commission because he can bring a message of job and business promotion and streamline the county’s permitting processes to help bring business to the county.

Stenger wins twice for Wildkat tennis

COLUMBIA FALLS — Tuesday was a day of ups and downs for the Columbia Falls Wildkat tennis team.

Dawson strikes out 10 in Flathead victory

Cassidy Smith’s suicide squeeze in the bottom of the seventh scored Mackenzie Twichel and the Flathead Bravettes picked up a 5-4 nonconference victory Tuesday over visiting Whitefish.

Morley, Foley set Top 10 meet records

MISSOULA — Two local runners broke meet records at the Western Montana Top 10 meet in Missoula on Tuesday, leading a handful of outstanding performances.

Flathead rolls past the Pack

Running with deeper, healthier rosters, the Flathead boys and girls track teams blew away Glacier at the crosstown track dual on Tuesday at Legends Stadium.

Man driving at high speeds suicidal?

Deputies with the

Rising rivers follow warm days

The National Weather Service is projecting Northwest Montana rivers and streams to rise over the next few days with some expected to approach or exceed flood stage.

Celestial light show

Northern lights illuminate the northeastern sky early Tuesday morning as viewed from the northern end of the Flathead Valley.

Gary Krueger

Mabel Josephine Munro Fisher, 102

Dawn Horstman Wickingstad, 51

Crosstown Track

 Flathead's Tess Brenneman placed first in the girls 100-meter dash Tuesday afternoon during the crosstown track dual at Legends Stadium. 

Bass Breast Center/KRMC cancer programs accredited

Dr. Melissa Hulvat speaks at a press conference announcing accreditation for the Kalispell Regional Medical Center cancer programs on Tuesday.

Do you think the GSA scandal represents an aberration or "government as usual"?

Road Work

A temporary traffic light stops traffic on Reserve Drive just east of U.S. 93 as work equipment hauls dirt across the road Tuesday morning. Intersection work began Monday on the new road being built behind Hutton Ranch Plaza. Tuesday, April 24, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Daybook

Buffalo Hill adds Heselwood to HOF

If Jon Heselwood could choose, he would gladly take the green over the clubhouse any day.

Terry Kramer - County Commission District 3

After years of “fighting for Flathead County” at county commission and city council meetings and before the state Legislature, Terry Kramer decided the time was right to run for the Flathead County commission in District 3.

In search of savings, Kalispell looks to refinance

Interest rates are at record lows. And with budget talks under way, Kalispell is working with bond counsel to see if any of its debt can be refinanced for lower interest payments.

Accident victim identified

The woman who died hours after walking away from a car crash on Foothill Road has been identified as Kalispell resident Dawn Wickingstad, 51.

Road job affects West Reserve Drive traffic

Work continues on a project to build Reserve Drive South.

Arrests likely in families' brawl

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office responded to a brawl involving about 10 people on Frontage Road just outside Columbia Falls Monday morning.

Students get hands-on bruin lesson

Black Bear Biology 101

Olney-Bissell Elementary School students weighed, measured and at one point even sniffed the breath of a captured black bear as they helped bear and lion specialist Erik Wenum process the sedated animal Monday.

Terry Kramer

Terry Kramer is one of five Republican candidates running for Flathead County Commission District 3.

Sharon 'Shari' Brown, 39

Sharon “Shari” Brown, 39, died Sunday, April 22, 2012, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell, after a long illness of multiple sclerosis.

Sharon Olson, 74

Sharon Olson of Libby passed away at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane on Friday, April 20, 2012.

GHS 'Flowers for Algernon'

Alice, played by Emily Creighton, comforts Charlie, played by Dwight Camillucci, as he agonizes over the realization that his newfound intelligence is only temporary in “Flowers for Algernon.”

High school puts on 'Flowers for Algernon'

The Wolfpack Theatre Co. at Glacier High School will explore the world of artificial intelligence, love and the hope found in the human spirit in “Flowers for Algernon” May 3 and 4. Show time is 6:33 p.m. Both performances will be staged at Wolfpack Theatre.

Deer

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A whitetail deer looks back after crossing Farm to Market Road Monday afternoon. Monday, April 23, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Bear at School

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake From left, Eric Reed, Kanoa Poteet and Andrew Hansen help bear and lion specialist Erik Wenum unload a tranquilized bear from a culvert trap Monday afternoon at Olney Bissell School. The bear, captured near Whitefish, was brought to the school by Fish Wildlife and Parks to educate students about what happens to animals after they are trapped. Monday, April 23, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Golf Hall of Fame

Jon Heselwood will join the Buffalo Hill Golf Club Hall of Fame Wednesday evening. He will be the HOF’s fifth inductee.

April 16-22, 2012

Kootenai Valley Rangers pick up 2 more victories

EUREKA — Ryan Holder had the big stick for the Kootenai Valley Rangers, who swept Mission Valley Senior Babe Ruth 7-6 and 13-3 on Sunday afternoon in nonconference baseball action.

Police told of duck-on-duck violence

Sunday afternoon, a

Dream room effort sparks emotions

Caleb Speed’s new room would be a dream to any young motocross racing fan.

Jay Scott

Jay Scott is one of five Republican candidates running for Flathead County Commission District 3.

Jay Scott - County Commission District 3

Jay Scott’s 15 years of interest in Flathead County government, his knowledge of government budgets, his experience as both an employee and an employer, and his good listening skills prompted his run for the District 3 county commissioner spot.

Kalispell to build new bike path along U.S. 93

Kalispell will use two years of its allocations from the Community Transportation Enhancement Program to build about a mile of new bike path along the east side of U.S. 93.

France trip influences school lunch leader

Jay Stagg is the man behind the scenes of the Whitefish School District’s lunch, breakfast and snack menu.

Special Spaces

Glacier High School assistant principal Micah Hill, right, and shop teacher Andy Fors, put the finishing touches on Caleb Speed's bedroom Saturday afternoon in Evergreen. Glacier staff and students, along with Special Spaces, have been working on Caleb's room since early February.

Pausing Parkinson's: Movement may help slow disease

Symposium will discuss exercise, stress reduction

Joe Jackson, brother of famed basketball coach Phil Jackson, grew up in an active family. He remains active even now, as he lives with Parkinson’s disease, a chronic and progressive movement disorder.

Plot thickens for online novel

Every now and again conversations in Whitefish circle around to “The Whitefish Novel,” the anonymous online novel that’s as much a social commentary about Whitefish issues as it is a murder mystery.

Trade office worth exploring

It is odd that the state of Montana since 1984 has had a trade office in Taipei, Taiwan, yet the state has never had a presence in Alberta or Canada, our top trading partner to the north.

New Kalispell eatery hits 'The Spot'

Dave and Elly Snyder’s recipe for starting a restaurant in downtown Kalispell boiled down to one simple strategy — doing things their own way.

Fair to have voting theme

You don’t have to be 18 to vote at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo this summer.

Forum features judge candidates

 On May 9, the Northwest Montana Bar Association will sponsor a Community Candidates’ Forum for the voting public to see, hear and question the five candidates for two Flathead County District Court judge positions.

Man pleads innocent to string of thefts

A 23-year-old man pleaded not guilty to theft charges Thursday in Flathead District Court.

A draft proposal: Is it time to reconsider national military service?

On June 30, 1973, Dwight Elliott Stone, a 24-year-old plumber’s assistant, became the last man conscripted into the U.S. Army. With the Vietnam War winding down, President Richard Nixon ended the draft after years of complaints over its inequities. The all-volunteer force that followed has kept this nation supplied with manpower for almost 40 years, through almost 30 years of peace and 10 years of war.

Dear AARP: Join? You've got to be kidding!

Dear AARP Membership Center: I am returning your membership renewal form. First of all, you are wrong. I am not a member of your organization nor will I ever be for reasons enumerated below.

Kalispell street repairs start Monday

Kalispell starts its 2012 street maintenance schedule this week, with five city streets targeted for milling and overlays.

Horse trading: Swap taxes for transcripts

President Obama and the elves cobbling together his re-election campaign in the basement of the White House annex in Chicago have challenged GOP candidate Mitt Romney to release his tax returns.

Track: Bigfork boys third in Missoula

The Bigfork boys finished just a few points short of taking the team title Saturday at the Seeley-Swan Invitational in Missoula, finishing just 11 points back of Choteau in third place.

Bates, Blalack singles champs for Glacier at Flathead Invitational

The Flathead Invitational tennis tournament stretched for 12 hours on Saturday with all but one of the 144 matches completed.

Glacier boys finish second at Swede Dahlberg

Despite missing a few pieces, Glacier and Flathead each had great days at the Class AA track meets in Butte and Great Falls on Saturday.

Columbia Falls sweeps Libby track meet

The Columbia Falls boys and girls ran away with team victories at Saturday’s Libby Invitational.

Rangers take 2 from Cranbrook

EUREKA — The Kootenai Valley Rangers opened American Legion baseball play on Saturday with a doubleheader sweep of Cranbrook, British Columbia.

Bravettes lose opener, but win 2nd game

It was a slow start Saturday for the Flathead Bravette softball team.

Gasoline spill results in police call

Officers with the

Ill wind: Man 'dealing with survivor guilt' recuperating in Libby

An Indiana tornado survivor whose story made international headlines in early March is recovering from multiple injuries at his sister’s home in Libby.

Nancy Kamerick, 59

Nancy Kamerick, 59, wife and best friend, ended her battle with pancreatic cancer Tuesday, April 17, 2012, and “went home to be with her Lord Jesus.”

Logan Alan Ostrom, 52

Logan Alan Ostrom, 52, passed away April 20, 2012, from complications of influenza at the Lake View Care Center in Bigfork.  

Clarice Marlene Kimes, 92

Clarice Marlene Kimes, 92, of Lakeside, slipped quietly away from this earth on April 15, 2012, at St. Patrick Hospital “and now lives on in the glorious presence of God.”

Dot Ann Ricker, 74

Dot Ann Ricker “went peacefully home to be with her Savior” on Sunday, April 15, 2012.

Flathead Invitational Tennis

Flathead's Glenn Strickler returns a serve Saturday morning during the Flathead Invitational at Flathead Valley Community College.

Stumpjumper Days

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Lauren Collan sends wood flying as she competes in the vertical speed chop Saturday afternoon during Stumpjumper Days at the Flathead Valley Community College logger sports arena. Saturday, April 21, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Vote to help middle school win an orchard

Voting is under way for Kalispell Middle School to win a fruit orchard and name it Grace Orchard after longtime Principal Barry Grace.

Youth's voice to be heard in U.S. choir

Kendrick Lee is a soft-spoken 18-year-old, but when he sings, his voice fills the room.

Jobless numbers unchanged

The unemployment rate remained unchanged in Northwest Montana counties and statewide during March.

Sun Road plows pass The Loop

Glacier National Park snowplow crews have advanced past The Loop and are approaching Haystack Creek on Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Alleged corruption in sheriff's office prompts meeting

Allegations of corruption in the Lake County Sheriff’s Office may lead to new powers for the Montana Public Safety Officer Standards and Training Council.

Bravettes, Wolfpack split softball doubleheader

One good shot made all the difference in Friday’s crosstown softball doubleheader.

Polson netters pile up dual wins

POLSON — Polson continues to impress on the courts.

Libby hands C-Falls 1st league loss

COLUMBIA FALLS — Lexi Hageness clubbed a three-run home run in the third inning and Kim Tangen also finished with three RBIs as Libby defeated Columbia Falls 9-1 in a Northwestern A softball contest on Friday night.

Waiting for justice: Mother still grieving murder of only son

Two years after her son was murdered in his sleep at a Louisiana Army base, Billie Eisinger still feels the hole in her life.

Soon-to-be ex makes threats

A Kalispell woman reported her husband, whom she is divorcing, to the

Crosstown Softball

Glacier second baseman Katie McHugh fields a ball during the first game of a crosstown softball doubleheader at Conrad Complex Friday afternoon. 

Clarice Marlene Kimes, 92

Dot Ann Ricker, 74

Dance Elements Spring Showcase

BMiranda McRae, of Kalispell, right, and other Dance Elements students take part in the Spring Dance Showcase dress rehearsal on Thursday, April 19, in Whitefish. The showcase concludes tonight at 7 p.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Byron Whitcomb

Murdered soldier's family

Tom and Billie Eisinger hold a photo of Billie’s son Byron Whitcomb, a U.S. Army private murdered in June 2010.

Forest Expo coming up May 12

Families are invited to attend the Family Forestry Expo from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 12, at the Trumbull Creek Educational Forest 2 miles north of the junction of U.S. 2 and Montana 40, just west of Columbia Falls.

Veteran quilter featured at show

Linda Sting of Teakettle Quilt Guild celebrates her 30th year in the craft as the featured quilter at the guild’s free annual show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Glacier Discovery Square in Columbia Falls.

Stanislao Quadruplets

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake With their father Bret in the background, the three boys of the Stanislao quadruplets wait for gymnastics class to start Thursday afternoon. The six-year-old quadruplets wear shirts with their names printed on the front to help people remember who is who. Thursday, April 19, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.

Trade center idea gets positive response

Dee Brown is encouraged by a meeting held this week to discuss the potential for the state to establish a trade center in Calgary.

Crosstown Smoker III

Crosstown Smoker

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Thursday evening during the third annual Crosstown Smoker at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. Thursday, April 19, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Kudos for bear-proofing work

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes deserve kudos for their concerted efforts to reduce bear-human conflicts on the Flathead Reservation, most recently with the acquisition of 125 bear-proof cans that are compatible with automated equipment on garbage trucks.

Kalispell man pleads not guilty to new felonies

A 23-year-old Kalispell man recently arrested on his third bench warrant in less than a year pleaded not guilty to two new felonies Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Cable company dropping Spokane PBS station

Starting April 24, the Public Broadcasting Service lineup is going to look a little different for some local viewers.

Big day at plate for Pirates

POLSON — Shalaina Duford struck out six and then hit a pair of doubles and had four RBIs to help lead the Polson Pirates past visiting Hamilton on Thursday night, 17-1 in five innings.

Quick start lifts Knights

The Missoula Hellgate Knights scored five runs in the first inning — four with two outs — and claimed a 7-4 Western AA softball victory over the host Glacier Wolfpack (1-8, 1-5) on Thursday.

Good day for Glacier tennis

Keckeley Habel might have had the busiest day of anyone on the tennis courts on Thursday.

Smoking hot night of boxing

On a night featuring state champions, seasoned boxers and a handful of huge fighters, perhaps the fight of the night at Thursday’s Crosstown Boxing Smoker came from the ladies.

Faith Ramsey

Faith Ramsey, daughter of Dave Ramsey and Angelica Verville of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Dylan Kay Hauff

Dylan Kay Hauff, daughter of Anthony and Michelle Hauff of Kalispell, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ryker Bartholomew

Ryker Bartholomew, son of Ryan and Lisa Bartholomew of Kalispell, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

?Xandre Eddy

Xandre Eddy, son of Josh and Sarah Eddy of Olney, was born Dec. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ethan Bruce Homola

Ethan Bruce Homola, son of Cory and Kari Homola of Kalispell, was born Dec. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Leeum Russell

Leeum Russell, son of Jeff Russell and Michelle Haslage of Kalispell, was born Dec. 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Elijah Wayne Wall

Elijah Wayne Wall, son of Lester and Mary Wall of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Arianna Elaine Shvets

Arianna Elaine Shvets, daughter of Yaroslav and Natalya Shvets, was born Dec. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Cian Ray Jones

Cian Ray Jones, son of Bobby Jones and Samantha Thompson of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

Hunter Alan Whitney

Hunter Alan Whitney, son of Michael and Sara Whitney of Kalispell, was born Dec. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Kiera Reilly Chappell

Kiera Reilly Chappell, daughter of Cory Chappell and Tiffany James of Kalispell, was born Dec. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

Crosstown Smoker

Flathead's Cassie Krueger, left, and Glacier's Keyawana Larson trade punches Thursday evening during the third annual Crosstown Smoker at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. Krueger won the three-round bout by major decision. 

Nobody lay a finger on his TV dinner

A bad situation escalated quickly when a Blue Crest Drive resident reported to the

Priest pleads innocent to felony charge

The 67-year-old Catholic priest charged with possessing child pornography pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Sierra Sadler

Sierra Sadler, daughter of Matt and Theresa Sadler of Kalispell, was born Dec. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Devin Stevens

Devin Stevens, son of William and Rachel Stevens of Kalispell, was born Dec. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Myah Bishop

Myah Bishop, daughter of Jason and Heather Bishop of Kalispell, was born Dec. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Xilas Munoz

Xilas Munoz, son of John Munoz and Nichole Peters of Kalispell, was born Dec. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Allan Lee Jones, 65

Allan Lee Jones, 65, passed away at his home in Kalispell the morning of April 17, 2012.

Marjorie Jackson Stevenson, 85

Marjorie Jackson Stevenson, 85, passed away on Monday, April 16, 2012, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell.

Hitting 'The Spot'

Dave and Elly Snyder working in their restaurant 'The Spot' in downtown Kalispell on Monday, April 16. The Spot opened in February of this year.

Tornado survivor

Jason Miller is living with his sister Rebekah in Libby after he survived an F-4 tornado on March 2 in Indiana.

Art Auction for Ember

From left, Quinten Calbick, Bodie Fosberg, and Becky Saari, third graders at Bigfork Elementary paint a chair which will be part of an art auction for fifth grader Ember Fortuna who was diagnosed with lymphoma. The Art Show and Silent Auction will be held on Friday, May 11, at the Bigfork Elementary Cafeteria from 5 to 8 p.m.

Linda Sting Profile

Detail of a quilt by Linda Sting on display in her home north of Kalispell on Wednesday evening, April 18.

Linda Sting

Linda Sting of Teakettle Quilt Guild displays one of her quilts on Wednesday evening at her home. Sting’s quilts will be on display at the Teakettle Quilt Guild’s free annual show from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at Glacier Discovery Square in Columbia Falls.

Parkinson Support Group

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Registered nurse at Kalispell Regional Medical Center Jill Zemke, center, discusses what patients with Parkinson's disease can expect when admitted to the hospital during a support group meeting at The Summit on Wednesday afternoon. Wednesday, April 11, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Bullman in court

The Rev. Rudy Bullman pleaded not guilty Thursday morning to the charge of felony sexual abuse of children. The Catholic priest is accused of possessing child pornography. Thursday, April 19, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Five districts seek levy OK

A recent lawsuit settlement with the state Legislature has proved a boon to local public school budgets just before school elections.

Lisa's Voice event warns about oral cancer

Lisa Petersen, Flathead High School and University of Montana graduate, never gave a second thought to the sore on her tongue that she first noticed in fall 2009. When it didn’t go away, she waited much too long before seeking medical attention.

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Institute holds work day

The Glacier Institute is holding its annual Volunteer Work Day on Saturday, May 5.

Radiothon planned for sound system

Kalispell Sunrisers Lions Club has launched a fundraising project including a radiothon to purchase a $20,000 sound system for the Veterans Memorial at Depot Park in downtown Kalispell.

County agrees with intersection concerns

Flathead County commissioners agreed with a Meadow Hills Drive resident Jolene Groves to request a state transportation department review of safety issues at the intersections of U.S. 2 West with West Springcreek Road and Derns Road.

Let's all agree to fix pensions

Even though he’s a lame-duck governor, Brian Schweitzer deserves some applause for diving into the state’s serious pension problem if only because he’s putting a spotlight on the issue.

Bennet Frase

Bennet Frase, daughter of Justin and Annie Frase of Lakeside, was born Dec. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Harper Moulton

Harper Moulton, daughter of Ron Long Jr., and Jennifer Moulton of Hungry Horse, was born Dec. 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Alfred Attilio Luciano

Alfred Attilio Luciano, son of Dan and Monica Luciano of Kalispell, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Payton MacKenstadt

Payton MacKenstadt, son of Chad MacKenstadt and Katelyn Mathis of Hungry Horse, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Mikah Lamberson

Mikah Lamberson, son of Julie Lamberson, was born Dec. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Leah Cote

Leah Cote, daughter of Andrew and Sarah Cote of Eureka, was born Dec. 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Colter Nelson

Colter Nelson, son of Kenny and Kerie Nelson of Kalispell, was born Dec. 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Sofia Tkachyk

Sofia Tkachyk, daughter of Aaron Tkachyk and Nakesha Paradise of Kalispell, was born Dec. 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Dakota James Ruiz

Dakota James Ruiz, son of Jennifer Ruiz of Whitefish, was born Dec. 23 at North Valley Hospital.

Tucker McIlhargey

Tucker McIlhargey, son of Larry and Tana McIlhargey of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Sydney Jane Hinkley

Sydney Jane Hinkley, daughter of Scott and Jessica Hinkley, was born Dec. 22 at North Valley Hospital.

Waylon James White

Waylon James White, son of Jamin and Bobbie Jo White of Hungry Horse, was born Dec. 18 at North Valley Hospital.

Skyla Gayle-Delynn CalfLooking

Skyla Gayle-Delynn CalfLooking, daughter of Kyle CalfLooking and Chelsea ManyHides of Missoula, was born Dec. 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Eero Gage Blauvelt

Eero Gage Blauvelt, son of Michael Blauvelt and Amanda West of Kalispell, was born Dec. 16 at North Valley Hospital.

Elijah Reign Tanner

Elijah Reign Tanner, son of Jason and Carrie Tanner of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 15 at North Valley Hospital.

Former police cruiser goes to man's head

A man in his 20s was reported to the

Athlete extraordinaire

LIBBY — What do you think about a kid who qualifies for the National Elks Hoop Shoot, shooting 94-for-100 free throws over the course of four competitions (local, district, state and regional)?

Knives and threats reported by children

The

Kalispell road job intensifies

Drivers should consider using other routes as work intensifies on West Idaho Street in Kalispell, according to the Montana Department of Transportation.

William Douglas 'Bill' Hill, 60

William Douglas “Bill” Hill, 60, died March 23, 2012, at his home in Bozeman.

Georgie K. Park, 86

Clayton W. 'Tinker' Donovan, 95

Clayton W. “Tinker” Donovan, 95, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away on Tuesday, April 17, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

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Intertainment Header

Fiixing Flathead

Flathead High School principal Peter Fusaro demonstrates how many of the lockers in the school will not close all the way.

FHS Tour

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Cracks in the skylights on the roof of Flathead High School have been sealed with tape. Tuesday, April 17, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Fixing Flathead

Flathead High School principal Peter Fusaro looks at a hole in the ceiling of a coach's office during a recent tour of the school.

Monday Profile

Whtefish School District food service director Jay Stagg in the kitchen at Muldown Elementary School on Wednesday morning.

Updating the Grandstands

Russ Parmelee of Kalispell works on installing new doors on the Grandstand building on Monday evening, April 16, at the Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

Traffic Light

Tim Seelye of the Department of Transportation adjusts a traffic light at U.S. 93 and J.P. Road in Whitefish to help improve vehicle detection Tuesday morning. Wednesday, April 18, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.

Sheriff's Posse Training Day

From right, members of the Sheriff's Posse Jon Hill and Ben Wiersma, both of Kalispell, subdue and control Craig Libby of Kalispell, playing the part of an armed criminal during scenario training on Monday night, April 16, at the fairgrounds in Kalispell.

United Way campaign falls short of funding goal

 The United Way has concluded its 2011 fund-raising campaign, raising a total of $739,246.

Exhibit pays homage to Bob Marshall

Visitors to the former bank vault at Glacier Discovery Square in Columbia Falls now are greeted with a life-sized photo of Bob Marshall, the namesake of the more than 1 million-acre wilderness complex along the Continental Divide and founder of the original Wilderness Society.

Woman with three warrants released soon after arrest

A 26-year-old transient woman in Kalispell was released on her own recognizance Tuesday after spending just nine hours in jail.

Hearing is May 7 for Kalispell airport decision

People are encouraged to share their opinions about the future of the Kalispell City Airport during a May 7 public hearing at City Hall.

Trickiest Sun Road work nearly completed

Glacier National Park visitors again can expect traffic delays on Going-to-the-Sun Road this summer due to a long-term road reconstruction project.

Lawsuit challenges logging proposal project

Two environmental groups have filed a lawsuit to stop a second forest management project on the Spotted Bear Ranger District.

Wolfpack shines in field events

On a bright and breezy day, the Glacier track team hosted its only meet of the season, coming out strong against some of the best athletes in the Flathead Valley.

Maxed-out smoker at Trade Center

Moving on up.

Owen resigns as head wrestling coach at Flathead

Matt Owen, a two-time Montana Coaches Association Class AA Coach of the Year, has stepped down as head wrestling coach at Flathead High School.

Sweep for Polson netters; C-Falls splits with Libby

POLSON — Polson’s boys had a much easier go of it than the girls.

Jones wins three events for C-Falls in dual meet at Libby

LIBBY — Dan Jones had the high marks in two field events and dashed to a win in the 200 to pace Columbia Falls in a 91-52 dual track win over Libby on Tuesday.

DiGiallonardo double winner for Polson at Big Sky triangular

MISSOULA — Anna DiGiallonardo placed first in the sprints to pace Polson at the Missoula Big Sky Triangular Track Meet on Tuesday.

Softball: Polson tops Libby; C-Falls rips Whitefish

The Daily Inter Lake

Mandi Anderson

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Fire

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Creston firefighters remove siding to uncover hot spots at a chimney fire on east Evergreen Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday, April 17, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Track Meet girls

Whitefish’s Amanda Foley, right, hands the baton to Amarlow Shulz during the 400-meter relay at Glacier High School Tuesday.

Track Meet Connor Davis

GLACIER’S Connor Davis takes off in a long jump during Tuesday’s track meet at Glacier High School.

Robert J. Hoover, 83

Schweitzer

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Gov. Brian Schweitzer discusses the state of the Pubic Employee Retirement System Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday, April 17, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Kalispell road job intensifies

Jerome Iverson, right, and Lindy Smith of WM Winkler Co. set guides to pour the concrete for the gutters on West Idaho Street in Kalispell on Tuesday afternoon. 

Governor pushes pension reform

GOP plans ‘doubling down on crazy’

Gov. Brian Schweitzer contends that his plan for funding the state’s overdrawn pension plans can be accomplished within the decade and without raising taxes.

Donna Lee Allen, 66

Donna Lee Allen, 66, passed away on Sunday, April 15, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Elroy 'Moe' Thompson, 85

Elroy "Moe" Thompson, 85, “passed into glory” April 15, 2012, at his home in Whitefish, with his family at his side.

April 9-15, 2012

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Joyce E. Boon, 82

Blast levels Dayton house

An explosion and fire over the weekend destroyed a house and damaged three others in Dayton on Flathead Lake’s west shore.

City searching for new public works director

Kalispell is looking for a new public works director following the departure of Bill Shaw.

Whitefish looks at sign-law changes

The Whitefish City-County Planning Board on Thursday will hold a public hearing on a proposed sign-ordinance change to include signs specific to performing art centers.

Tons of recyclables to go toward trees

Saturday’s haul for the Trees to Paper to Trees program was down compared to prior years, but still pretty big: 14,180 pounds of newsprint, 1,440 pounds of cardboard and 255 pounds of aluminum.

Rake deters charging dogs

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday from a Mountain View Drive resident who said his neighbor’s dogs, possibly mastiffs, charged him and he’d had to fend them off with a rake.

Hobby club celebrates 60 crafty years

Marjorie Olsen and Agnes “Aggie” Gustafson appear as charter members on the flower-bordered stationery announcing the first meeting of the Hobby Handicrafters Club in May 1952.

House Explosion in Dayton

The wreckage of a rental home fills the lot at the corner of 7th and C Streets on Monday afternoon, April 16, in Dayton. The house exploded Friday evening. First responder Jason Heffner of the Chief Cliff Fire Department estimates he was on the scene and calling dispatch at around 11:30 as debris from the blast was still falling from the sky. Heffner said the investigators have not made an official ruling on the cause of the blast yet, but a propane furnace is suspected. The blast completely destroyed on house and did structural damage to the house next door. Heffner said the blast was heard across the lake as far as Big Arm.

Hobby Handicrafters Club

Marjorie Olsen, one of the founding members of the hobby club, enjoys a laugh at the April meeting, when the women made sachets from vintage handkerchiefs.

Cal Scott named interim commissioner

Cal Scott of Columbia Falls was appointed interim Flathead County commissioner Monday morning.

District Music Festival

Freshman Olivia Ramstad plays the oboe with the Columbia Falls Concert Band on Friday morning, April 13, at the District Music Festival in Kalispell.

It's time to move on city airport

If recent discussions about Kalispell City Airport seem painfully familiar, that’s because they are.

Dancing in the Streets

From left, Makia Hammer and Allie Meyer take a break from the crowd to dance in the streets at the North End Swing dance on Friday evening at the Senior Center in Kalispell. More than 80 people came out for the dance which started with lessons for beginners at 8 p.m.

Runners galore for Rocky Mountain Bank Summit Classic

The 17th annual Rocky Mountain Bank Summit Classic 5K/10K Walk/Jog/Run enjoyed another big turnout Sunday afternoon.

City budget may contain flat spending levels

Preliminary budget talks in Kalispell show mostly flat revenue and spending levels for the 2012-13 fiscal year that starts July 1.

Border limits increased for Canadian shoppers

A recent rule change by the Canadian government will allow Canadians to bring more purchases made in the United States back across the border tax-free.

Man reports germs planted in his hotel room

Sunday afternoon, a man told the

Whitefish considers growth-policy recommendations

The Whitefish City Council tonight will consider adopting a review of the 2007 Whitefish Growth Policy that calls for eliminating an infill policy and updating the city’s sign ordinance.

Candidates vow active role for state on resource issues

Republican gubernatorial candidate Rick Hill insists that if elected he will weigh in through “every conceivable avenue” on natural resource matters on state as well as federal lands.

Partnering to make a difference

City official sees bright future for community

In Kalispell’s department of community and economic development, Katharine Thompson has a full plate — but she wouldn’t want it any other way or want to be in any other place.

Mary Jane Street, 89

Mary Jane Street, 89, died on Feb. 12, 2012.

Kalispell man pleads guilty to fourth DUI

A 40-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty to reduced charges Thursday in Flathead District Court after being charged with his fourth offense of driving under the influence.

Man wants permits for airport work

Facing a showdown over the proposed upgrade and enlargement of Kalispell City Airport, Steve Eckels said he wants Kalispell to require a conditional use permit for any modifications to the 83-year-old general aviation facility.

Girl Scouts celebrate 100 years of service

In celebration of the Girl Scouts’ 100th birthday, Columbia Falls Service Unit Manager Naureen Sago organized a party centered around the girls earning the 100-year council badge offered through the Girl Scouts of Montana and Wyoming.

Trapping? Pain? That's a no-brainer

In his recent article in the Daily Inter Lake (March 8, 2012), Warren Illi, posed the question “How much do animals suffer?”

Lost at sea: Kalispell man recounts tale of family member lost on Titanic

I write this communication as a memorial to my father’s cousin, Ole Martin Olson, who at the age of 27, perished 100 years ago along with 1,500 fellow travelers when on April 15, 1912, the Titanic struck an iceberg off the Grand Banks of Newfoundland, and sunk a few hours later. This maritime disaster has received almost unparalleled publicity with over six movies and an uncounted numbers of books recording the event.

Candidate calls for Calgary trade center

Montana should operate a trade center in Calgary, a Flathead County business leader and legislative candidate says.

Nonprofit chiropractic clinic opens

A nonprofit clinic offering chiropractic treatment to low-income patients has opened in Kalispell.

Glacier, Flathead test Missoula schools in tennis duals

MISSOULA — Glacier’s boys and girls both went 2-1 versus the three Missoula schools on Saturday in dual tennis action.

Wildkats rally past Havre, twice, in softball

COLUMBIA FALLS — You have to hand it to the Columbia Falls softball team.

Vikes, Dogs dash off with track titles

BIGFORK — Led by a pair of talented sprinters the Bigfork boys and the Whitefish girls dashed to victory at the Bigfork Invitational on Saturday.

Titanic: One hundred years ago

Vision of doom part of Olson family lore

As the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic approached, John Olson of Kalispell was taken back to his childhood in South Dakota and stories he heard of the death of his father’s cousin, Ole Martin Olson on the ship.

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Vehicle strikes pole and hydrant

Two people were injured when a vehicle struck a traffic light pole on West Idaho Street. The vehicle also struck a fire hydrant.

Flathead boys invite track champs; FHS girls 3rd

MISSOULA — Michael Managhan and Zach Perrin were individual winners for Flathead and the Braves collected another first with the 1,600 relay team en route to a first-place finish at the Missoula County Public School Invitational track meet on Saturday.

Glacier splits, Bravettes fall twice in Helena; Libby whips Whitefish

HELENA — Jenna Willis went 3-for-5 at the plate and held Helena High to five hits in going the distance in the circle as Glacier rolled to a 10-1 Western AA softball victory on Saturday over the Lady Bengals.

Polson girls 4-0 at Cut Bank A Invitational tennis duals

CUT BANK — Polson’s girls were 4-0 while the boys posted a 3-1 mark at the Cut Bank A Invitational tennis duals, which wrapped up Saturday.

Manager will make $105,000 each year

Kalispell on Thursday released the contract terms offered to newly hired City Manager Doug Russell, who has a tentative starting date of June 18, 2012.

Constitution 'vetoes' fundamental change

Last week, we took a look at President Obama’s criticism of the Supreme Court, focusing on his attempt to influence the justices into deciding the health-care case favorably for his administration.

Constance Ruth Whaley, 100

Donald 'Big Don' Dulle, 54

Donald “Big Don” Dulle, 54, of Whitefish, lost his battle with pancreatic cancer on April 13, 2012.  

Tax Rally

Linda Johnson, front, and Misty Rhodes, both of Kalispell, take part in the Montana Patriots Tax Day Rally on Saturday afternoon, April 14, in Kalispell. "We thought we were going to get hope and change," said Johnson. "But what we got is more of the same, and worse, under this administration."

District votes to sell former school building

Kalispell Public Schools Board of Trustees voted unanimously Tuesday to place the Auxiliary Services Building, located at 514 E. Washington St., for sale.

Sailing teachers sought for Camp Melita Island

 The Camp Melita Island Boy Scout Association needs four to five additional sailing instructors for the 2012 summer season due to increased programming and popular demand.

Man pleads innocent to assault on police officer

A 38-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty to felony assault on a peace officer and two other charges Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Man sentenced for theft, drugs

A 50-year-old Whitefish man was sentenced to 10 years suspended Thursday in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to two felony charges.

Hantavirus case confirmed in Flathead

Flathead City-County Health officials have confirmed hantavirus infection in a Flathead County resident.

Most C. Falls businesses pass compliance tests

A large majority of Columbia Falls businesses checked for alcohol compliance on April 5 passed, with 13 out of 15 refusing to sell to underage operatives.

Man guilty of felony charges

A 24-year-old Missoula man who once tried to escape from a courtroom pleaded guilty to three felonies Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Charges keep piling up against vehicle burglar

A 24-year-old man already convicted of felony burglary pleaded not guilty to a new felony charge of distributing drugs during Flathead District Court on Thursday.

Trustees drop race at community college

Flathead Valley Community College trustees voted at a special meeting Thursday to remove one unopposed trustee position from the May 8 election ballot, leaving one trustee position contested.

Girl Scouts

Girl Scouts learn knot-tying techniques at Service Unite Camp at Glacier National Park. Naureen Sago, the Columbia Falls service unit manager, is second from left. Sago has been involved with Girl Scouts for more than two decades, ever since her oldest daughter, Cassandra, joined the organization in the first gradeas a Brownie.

The Titanic

The Titanic sank on April 15, 1912, after hitting an iceberg the night before. German artist Willy Stoewer visualized the sinking of the Titanic, as survivors struggled to get away.

Organization celebrates its first century

The 4-H organization, officially named in 1912, aims to provide young people hands-on skills through agricultural and home economics projects.

Littering neighbors irk woman

A woman calling

Flathead Rapids to play two college teams at Smith Fields

The Flathead Rapids continue to be a key player when it comes to advancing soccer in the Flathead Valley.

Keenan, Weimer post best rounds for Bigfork

BIGFORK — Tom Swanson of Loyola shot a Bigfork Invitational golf tournament record round 64 on Thursday for medalist honors at Eagle Bend Golf Club.

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Bulldog netters sweep Bigfork

WHITEFISH — The win by Mackenzie Thomas at No. 3 singles gave Whitefish a 4-3 dual triumph over Bigfork in tennis on Friday afternoon.

Panel takes a look at Lake County probes

Allegations of corruption and cover-ups within the Lake County Sheriff’s Office have caught the attention of Montana attorney general hopeful Jim Shockley, who is using his clout in the state Legislature to bring light to what is and isn’t being done to investigate.

Brief breather for taxpayers

Heidi Valentine, a CPA with Connie’s Tax Service, kept the calculator tape from the more than 500 clients she has done taxes for this year. This year, because the April 15 falls on a Sunday, taxpayers have until Tuesday, April 17, to get their taxes in the mail. The Kalispell Post Office on North Meridian will be open regular hours Tuesday, but mail dropped off after hours into the front lobby slot or boxes on the side of building will be collected at midnight, and post office employees will make sure the letters get an April 17 stamp.

Cindy Rickard, 54

Kalispell casino robber given two-year sentence

The 20-year-old Kalispell man who robbed a casino runner at gunpoint was sentenced Thursday in Flathead District Court to two years in jail plus eight years suspended.

C. Falls woman pleads guilty to embezzlement

A 46-year-old Columbia Falls woman pleaded guilty to felony theft Thursday in Flathead District Court after embezzling from Whitefish Credit Union while working as a teller.

Man pleads not guilty to gun-related charges

A 36-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty to a pair of felonies Thursday in Flathead District Court after allegedly firing a gun in another man’s general direction.

Generous gift to worthy cause

A permanent endowment fund launched last fall by Shepherd’s Hand Clinic in Whitefish got a big boost recently when philanthropists Dave and Sherry Lesar announced a $250,000 matching challenge.

Commissioner selection delayed until Monday

Selection of a third Flathead County commissioner has been delayed until Monday.

Three plead innocent to home robbery

Three men originally charged in Flathead County after allegedly robbing a Happy Valley home near Whitefish and holding a 16-year-old girl at gunpoint have pleaded not guilty to federal charges.

Kidnapping story turns out to be false

The attempted kidnapping of a 10-year-old girl by a man with a gun Wednesday afternoon has proved to be a false report, according to Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry.

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Larry Michael Greene, 55

Larry Michael Greene passed away peacefully at his home on April 9, 2012. He was born on Dec. 19, 1956, in Duluth, Minn., the son of Dennis “Pat” and Betty Louise (Cronkite) Greene.

Bulldog netters roll past Loggers

WHITEFISH — Only one match went the distance as Whitefish pretty much ruled the court Thursday afternoon in a Northwestern A tennis dual with Libby.

Better for bruins – and people: New bear-proof containers rolled out

Tribes plan to install 125 cans

New bear-proof containers

Germaine White, tribal public affairs specialist, speaks during the cans’ unveiling ceremony.

Caller reports his mean neighbor

An upset resident of East Evergreen Drive in Evergreen called the

Harvey Edward Button, 80

William Guy Gwynn, 85

Joseph D. 'Joe' Serfoss, 77

Joseph D. "Joe" Serfoss, 77, passed away April 8, 2012.

Kalispell Fire Department Training

Members of the Kalipsell Fire Department B Shift gather outside a house that now belongs to the fairgrounds on Thursday afternoon, April 12, on West Wyoming Street in Kalispell. The firefighters worked on second story rescue scenarios for four hours.

Monday Profile

Katharine Thompson is community development manager for Kalispell.

4H

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Nate Tutvedt plays basketball Tuesday afternoon at the Tutvedt's farm west of Kalispell. The Tutvedts have had 3 generations in 4H. Tuesday, April, 3, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Titanic

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake John Olson has been interested in the Titanic ever since he learned his father's cousin, Ole Martin Olson, went down with the ship. Wednesday, April 11, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Flathead outside hitter Hannah Sackett to play volleyball for Mountaineers

Hannah Sackett was just heading into her junior year of high school when Flathead volleyball coach Leon Wilcox informed her that the Bravettes were going to need her to play back row as well as outside hitter in the upcoming season.

Chasing numbers

It was a quick moment, but it happened a number of times.

Jade Fischer

Jade Fischer, daughter of Erik Fischer and Mia McKean of Kalispell, was born Dec. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kellan Lee Markham

Kellan Lee Markham, son of Chasta Markham of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 15 at North Valley Hospital.

Isley Simpson

Isley Simpson, daughter of Caleb and Melissa Simpson of Whitefish, was born Dec. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Cragar Davis

Cragar Davis, son of Ward and Katie Davis of Troy, was born Dec. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Decland J. Schreiner

Decland J. Schreiner, son of Cody and Shila Schreiner of Lakeside, was born Dec. 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Colter Hughes

Colter Hughes, son of Austin and Amy Hughes of Kalispell, was born Dec. 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Tucker Paul Venche

Tucker Paul Venche, son of Paul Venche and Amy Joy of Kila, was born Dec. 12 at North Valley Hospital.

Boston Ray Thompson

Boston Ray Thompson, son of Terance Thompson and Jessica Bancroft of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 13 at North Valley Hospital.

Rosealyn Trinity Garcia

Rosealyn Trinity Garcia, daughter of Ron Garcia and Kimberly Newman of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 13 at North Valley Hospital.

Clyde Edward Ainsworth

Clyde Edward Ainsworth, son of Nicholas Ainsworth and Tandi Chamberlin of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 12 at North Valley Hospital.

Aliana Britt

Aliana Britt, daughter of Micky and Angela Britt of Hungry Horse, was born Dec. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Zaidyn Black

Zaidyn Black, son of Cameron Black and Larissa Sunell of Kalispell, was born Dec. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Nolan James Sutton

Nolan James Sutton, son of R.C. and Morgan Sutton, was born Dec. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Maliki Morgan Mora

Maliki Morgan Mora, son of Santiago Mora and Sarah Brewster, was born Dec. 10 at North Valley Hospital.

Aria Matelich

Aria Matelich, daughter of Jake Matelich and Brooke Boone of Kalispell, was born Dec. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Paul Pavliuk

Paul Pavliuk, son of Pavel and Natalia Pavliuk of Kalispell, was born Dec. 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Gabriel Morrison Walrath and Elijah Morrison Walrath

Gabriel Morrison Walrath and Elijah Morrison Walrath, sons of Luke Walrath and Betsi Morrison of Whitefish, were born Dec. 8 at North Valley Hospital.

Victoria Young

Victoria Young, daughter of Raymond and Terah Young of Kalispell, was born Dec. 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kimberly Braaten

Kimberly Braaten, daughter of Jason and Abigail Braaten of Kalispell, was born Dec. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Rose Holmes

Rose Holmes, daughter of Glen Holmes and Connie Behe of Kalispell, was born Dec. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Colson Street

Colson Street, son of Jon and Traci Street of Eureka, was born Dec. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Man pleads not guilty to assault on baby girl

A 20-year-old Columbia Falls man pleaded not guilty to a felony charge of assault on a minor March 29 in Flathead District Court.

Raelee Anne Warner

Raelee Anne Warner, daughter of Marcus and Chelsie Warner of Fallon, Nev., was born Dec. 5 at Banner Churchill Community Hospital in Fallon.

Carter Hardman

Carter Hardman, son of Zachary and Melissa Hardman of Kalispell, was born Dec. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Matthew Nathan Doty

Matthew Nathan Doty, son of Patrick and Danielle Doty, was born on Oct. 24 at at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Fraud by the numbers

Man guilty in crash that injured six

A 19-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty to two felony charges of negligent vehicular assault April 5 in Flathead District Court.

Kalispell burglary suspect sought

Kalispell police are searching for a woman allegedly involved in a Tuesday evening burglary at a home on Buffalo Hill Drive near Buffalo Hill Golf Course.

Taser subdues naked suspect

A Whitefish man gave police a peep at his privates before being shocked into submission Tuesday evening.

Kalispell schools seek approval of two levies

Funding situation better than expected

Kalispell Public Schools trustees Tuesday night heard good news as they were presented with a “better than anticipated” preliminary budget for the 2012-13 school year.

Neighbors sound off on landfill expansion

Two threats of litigation were lobbed toward members of the Flathead County Solid Waste District Board, along with two offers to sell land to the district “today” during a Tuesday public meeting.

North to the Stampede

Laird Hill of Crystal Services secures a 1,700 sculpture of two horses to the bed of a truck on Wednesday afternoon outside Kalipsell Art Casting. The horses are part of a 1,250 foot sculpture by artists Rich Roenisch and Bob Spaith of Calgary. Three pieces, consisting of five horses made their way north to Calgary yesterday afternoon.

Businesses detail successes, challenges

Since 2009, Defiance Machine in Columbia Falls has grown tremendously, building high-end bolt actions and other gun components to sell to firearms manufacturers.

Girl, 10, says man tried to force her into car

Putting the kibosh on coal

How is it that U.S. coal exports to countries around the world are at their highest volumes since 1991, yet America is increasingly turning its back on its most abundant and affordable source of electricity?

Different scams continue to proliferate

What do a grandson in jail, a foreign prince, national lotteries and credit card companies have in common?

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Sweet Peaks Sign

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Sweet Peaks Ice Cream owner Sam Dauenhauer screws in a sign Wednesday afternoon at the new Kalispell location. The new shop, located at the corner of Main Street and Fourth Street east, opens for business today. Wednesday, April 11, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

The Retreat at Buffalo Hill

Cecelia Perry works with Physical Therapist Dulci Voermans on Friday, March 30, at the Retreat at Buffalo Hill.

Hannah Sackett

Flathead volleyball standout Hannah Sackett signed her National Letter of Intent to play at West Virginia University on Wednesday.

Bravettes split in Missoula

MISSOULA — The Flathead Bravette softball team finished on a high note on Tuesday.

Glacier wins crosstown tennis

The tennis courts were busy at Flathead Valley Community College on Tuesday.

Fast track to success

For the first meet of the season, Flathead track star Tess Brenneman certainly didn’t show any off season rust.

Parish life normal after pastor suspended

Despite the shake-up at Risen Christ Parish caused by recent charges against the Rev. Rudy Bullman, the Evergreen parish has been moving along relatively smoothly.

Churches cut off involvement with Haiti mission

Pat Freebury, a Kalispell woman who has raised money for a Haiti orphanage, announced that the American board for Haiti Mercy Mission has severed its ties to the group that runs the orphanage in Pignon and four churches.

Meetings precede South Fork project work

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will hold two informational meetings on an ongoing project to purge non-native fish genetics from alpine lakes connected to the South Fork Flathead River drainage.

Crosstown Tennis

Glacier's Katya Kulikova plays against Ashli Petek of Flathead on Tuesday afternoon at Flathead Valley Community College. Kulikova won the match 6-0, 6-0.

Zip-line business proposed near Coram

A proposal to build eight zip lines and a ropes course at a Coram dude ranch is up for discussion at tonight’s meeting of the Flathead County Planning Board.

Airport decision expected May 21

Kalispell City Council members didn’t share their opinions about a proposed upgrade to the city’s airport Monday, but they did ask lots of questions about it.

Small boy wanders from home in pajamas

An Evergreen resident called the

S.D. man hired to lead city

Doug Russell will be hired as Kalispell’s next city manager, officials announced Tuesday afternoon.

Annex demolition schedule accelerated

Saturday’s speedy demolition of the west annex on the Flathead County Courthouse campus resulted in a change of plans in the schedule to demolish the east annex.

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Idaho Street work

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A skid steer loader clears debris left at the intersection of Idaho Street First Avenue West. Road work started Tuesday on the reconstruction of West Idaho Street in Kalispell. The project will resurface from just west of U.S. 93 to just east of Meridian Road as well as pour new gutters and curbs. Tuesday, April 10, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Class A Invitational

Flathead's Monica White, right, hands off the baton to Liz Chmielewski during the 400 meter relay Tuesday afternoon during the Class A Invitational at Legend's Stadium.

Richard Hanes Sr., 51

Richard Hanes Sr., 51, passed away in Kalispell on Monday, April 9, 2012.

William Ladvala, 56

William "Wild Bill" Ladvala, 56, a longtime Flathead resident, passed away April 7, 2012, at his home in Whitefish. His high school sweetheart and beloved dog were at his side.

Delores C. Struble, 81

Delores C. Struble of Prescott, Ariz., most recently of Mesa, Ariz., died March 23, 2012, from Alzheimer’s disease.

Ethel Thomas, 94

Ethel Thomas, 94, “joined our Lord and Savior” April 7, 2012, at Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center.

Lewis 'Lewie' Schenck, 77

Lewis Stewart Schenck passed away peacefully at his Kalispell home on April 7, 2012.

Striving Readers Grant Workshop

From left, Laurie Latimer, the librarian at Elrod and Stacey Anderson a first grade teacher at Russell take part in a joint training workshop on Tuesday, April 10, at the Northwest Montana Education Cooperative in Kalispell. Russell and Elrod both received the Striving Readers Grant to improve their literacy programs. The schools will take part in five more workshops over the next two years.

Miriam Lois (Fredenberg) Mack, 87

Miriam “Mere” Mack was born in Kalispell to Ruth Hazel Crandell and Anson George Fredenberg on July 26, 1924. She was the 10th child of 16. Miriam died at the Brendan House April 2, 2012.

David L. Osborne, 87

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Kathryn Ellen (Malson) Dietrich, 97

Flathead netters make big gains

Flathead’s tennis squads continue to improve and impress coach Jeff Anderson.

Fruitful day for Glacier boys, girls in tennis

Glacier’s tennis teams used a matchup with Bigfork to gain experience for the younger players and toy with their lineups at the courts at Flathead Valley Community College Monday afternoon.

Drunk woman causes disturbance

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report from a Merganser Drive residence Sunday regarding an apparently intoxicated woman walking into the house and refusing to leave.

Season of big snows winds down

As recreational attention turns to warm-weather pursuits, the ski season came to an end Sunday at Whitefish Mountain Resort while the final day of skiing will be Saturday at Blacktail Mountain Ski Area.

Three school districts to have new superintendents

West Valley, Helena Flats and Cayuse Prairie school districts will have new superintendents for the 2012-13 school year.

Idaho Street road job starts today

Work starts today on the reconstruction of West Idaho Street in Kalispell.

Blackfeet soldier killed in Afghanistan

A 31-year-old soldier from Great Falls has been killed in Afghanistan, becoming the second member of the Blackfeet Indian Tribe to be killed in the Afghan war.

Review leads to pay freeze for 2 county workers

The pay of two Flathead County Geographic Information System Department employees has been frozen as part of a realignment of the department and review of pay grades.

Kidnap charge dropped in plea deal

A 43-year-old Olney man pleaded guilty to drug possession and partner or family member assault Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Kelly Kirby, 47

Kelly Kirby, 47, “went to heaven” Thursday, April 5, 2012, at her home in Bigfork.

Man convicted in machete incident

A 52-year-old Columbia Falls man pleaded guilty by way of Alford to two charges Thursday in Flathead District Court related to a September incident in which he brandished a machete at a restaurant.

Glacier Tennis

Glacier’s Orson Phattharaampornchai looks to return a serve during a singles match against Bigfork’s Logan Lamm at Flathead Valley Community College Monday afternoon.

Flathead Tennis

Flathead’s Willow Fantino stretches to make a return during a singles match against Bigfork’s Alanis Stallknecht at Flathead Valley Community College Monday afternoon.

Pigs In The Library

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Flathead High School vocational agriculture students Sam Moody, left, and Koya Olsen read "Little Pink Pup" to a group of first graders to kick off National Library Week at Russell Elementary Monday afternoon. Monday, April, 9, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

7th Annual Pond Skim

Pond Skimming

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Photos from the 7th Annual Pond Skim at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Saturday, April, 7, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Skull Church Good Friday

Skull Church

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Skull Church Good Friday service at Majestic Valley Arena Friday night. Friday, April, 6, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Girl with no license takes dad's car

Saturday morning, a caller reported a runaway girl without a driver’s license making use of her dad’s car without permission to the

Sweetgall changed physician's life

Dr. Pam Roberts knows that motivational speaker Robert Sweetgall changes lives. He changed hers.

Talking the Walk

Movement motivator Robert Sweetgall will bring his message about the value of physical activity to the Flathead Valley this weekend.

Movement motivator talks the walk

A veteran of trekking across America, movement motivator Robert Sweetgall returns to the Flathead Valley this week to talk up walking at a series of free public events starting Wednesday.

Pete Sifuentes: Investing in other people's lives

For Lakeside resident Pete Sifuentes, life wouldn’t be complete if he didn’t help other people by investing in their lives.

Grants sought for bike path, bypass work

Two Flathead County projects are vying pieces of the $500 million grant pie now available from the U.S. Department of Transportation.

Abe Levengood

Abe Levengood, 41

“With love and broken hearts we say farewell, for now, to our mountain man, Abe Levengood, not just a Montana man, but a true Flathead Valley native. To claim this title, you better have proof. It was a source of pride and many conversations were debated on this topic.”

Strickler wins a pair for Braves in tennis

Playing with mostly junior varsity players, the Flathead tennis team was still able to take a couple matches from some of the best in the state Saturday in Missoula.

Record-breaking run for Perrin in California

ARCADIA, Calif. — Flathead High School junior Zach Perrin ran the fastest 3,200 ever by a Montana prep runner on Saturday at the Arcadia Invitational track and field meet.

See more great photos and buy reprints

See photo gallery and buy reprints

Ductless wonder: Libby business earns award for heat-pump installations

Installing ductless heat pumps has been a niche that has allowed a Libby heating and cooling business to survive the recession and get some statewide recognition to boot.

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New principal to take over at St. Matt's

Lauren Smith of Kalispell will be the new principal at St. Matthew’s Parish School.

Griz fans deserve answers

Griz Nation deserves an explanation — something, anything that would shed more light on why Grizzly football coach Robin Pflugrad and Athletic Director Jim O’Day were abruptly fired last week.

Audubon-sponsored field trip to Freezeout Lake offers 'spectacular' sight

'Addicted to fitness'

Karate, biking, lifting, running, hiking, hunting, dancing keep Hoch very active

Levi Hoch’s friends literally dragged him to his first swing dance three years ago.

Glacier netters 2-1 in AA dual action

The Daily Inter Lake

Suspected drug activity reported

The

Stokes in second appeal of bankruptcy

John Stokes is appealing the outcome of a 2009 bankruptcy case that saw his KGEZ radio station seized and sold off to Todd and Davar Gardner to satisfy creditors.

A good time on Good Friday

Roughly 2,900 people attended Skull Church’s Good Friday service at the Majestic Valley Arena Friday night, according to a church representative.

President takes aim at Supreme Court - again

When it comes to the justice system, President Obama is a repeat offender.

No Easter baskets for you this year

 After 27 years of being a parent, I made a big decision this year: I’m not giving my two grown daughters Easter baskets.

Long path ahead for $16 million airport plan

With a master plan update and recommended airport layout plan in hand, the Kalispell City Council meets Monday to start exploring what to do about Kalispell City Airport.

Deciphering the Code: How to make sense in an election year

It's election season and it’s time for politicians and the media to pull out all the stops on the use of code words. Both the left and the right try to mobilize their bases (and some independents) with superheated language that has a special meaning intended to mobilize impulsive, irrational feelings. Everyone knows what is really meant by these words and phrases, but no one would own the real meaning, short of torture.

The rights of conscience

On March 1, a Senate vote defeated the amendment entitled “Respect for Rights of Conscience Act,” which would have overturned the HHS requirement requiring that employers provide insurance which many feel is a violation of their rights of conscience. Opponents to this requirement feel it is an egregious violation of religious freedom.

Nils Swanson, 68

Sandy Walker, 72

Phillip Michael Samuels, 69

Mark Allan Weaver, 46

Mark Allan Weaver, 46, of Hamer, Idaho, passed away April 5, 2012, at Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center after a boating accident on the Mud Lake near Terreton.

Skull Church

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Levi Lusko speaks during Skull Church's Good Friday service at Majestic Valley Arena Friday night. Friday, April, 6, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Courthouse Demolition

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Light fixtures from the west annex at the Flathead County Courthouse lay in a pile Saturday morning. The east annex is scheduled to be demolished next Saturday. Saturday, April, 7, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

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Couple offers matching grant for clinic fund

A $250,000 matching challenge by Whitefish philanthropists Dave and Sherry Lesar has injected momentum and lifeblood into a permanent endowment fund recently launched by Shepherd’s Hand Clinic.

Event a showcase for talented students

The second Evening of Fine Arts was a unique opportunity for all the creative programs at Flathead and Glacier high schools to be featured at the same time.

Candidates explain pursuit of commissioner seat

Candidates for the Flathead County District 1 commissioner seat gave a sense of how they would govern to members of the Glacier Pachyderm Club in Kalispell Friday.

Woman flown to hospital after crash

A woman was airlifted to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center early Friday evening after sustaining serious injuries in a rollover crash on U.S. 93 near Olney.

Janet M. Frisella, 59,

Michael Clifton Byers, 52

Esther Irene Weimer, 80

GOP Luncheon

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Republican candidate for Flathead County Commissioner Mike Shepard during a Glacier Country Pachyderm Club luncheon at Red Lion Hotel Friday afternoon. Friday, April, 6, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Cal Scott

Cal Scott was appointed county commissioner Monday to fill out the term of the late Jim Dupont. He is shown here during a Glacier Country Pachyderm Club luncheon April 6. 

Levi Hoch Profile

Levi Hoch trail rides at Herron Park on Sept. 11, west of Kalispell.

Evergreen Fire Training

From left, Firefighters Cole Williams, Captain Wayne Evert, and Josh Cox work to extract Tyler Fister from an entanglement obstacle in a firefighter mayday exercise on Thursday evening, April 5, at the Evergreen Fire Department. The firefighters have to do a wall breach, where they use an ax to cut through dry wall and stud beams, get through a confined space obstacle, and go over an collapse wall obstacle before they reach the firefighter in trouble. They must then extract the drag the downed man from the entanglement obstacle and drag him back through the first three obstacles.

CMR, Great Falls High whip Flathead, Glacier in softball

A pair of Eastern AA softball powerhouses had a field day with Flathead and Glacier on Thursday in nonconference battles at the Conrad Complex and Kidsports Complex.

Glacier, CMR split track action

GREAT FALLS — In its first outing this year, the Glacier track team qualified six athletes for the state meet on Thursday.

Touch of Grace to be missed

Things won’t be quite the same next year around the halls of Kalispell Middle School.

Man pleads innocent in rape case

A 26-year-old Whitefish man pleaded not guilty to rape Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Dad pleads innocent to drug charge

The father of a 7-year-old girl attacked by four American bulldogs in Creston on New Year’s Eve pleaded not guilty to a felony drug manufacturing charge Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Burglary suspect accused of tampering with witness

After being apprehended by police on his third bench warrant in nine months, Nathan Bayreuther may be facing more charges.

Deputies arrest young car thief

A boy was arrested by

New group forms to protect jobs

A newly formed coalition of state lawmakers and business groups is pushing back against rules and regulations recently enacted by the National Labor Relations Board.

Suspect pleads not guilty to trying to shoot man in head

A 43-year-old Whitefish man pleaded not guilty to felony assault with a weapon Thursday in Flathead District Court after allegedly attempting to shoot another man in the head.

Family mourns passing of injured paratrooper

An injured soldier who struggled daily to overcome the physical challenges left by an explosion in Iraq died early Sunday morning in his sleep, just two weeks before a home being built for him and his family was due to be finished.

Man sentenced in two cases

A 22-year-old Columbia Falls man was sentenced to two years in jail on two cases March 29 in Flathead District Court.

Man denies wielding gun outside local bar

A 29-year-old Kalispell man accused of pulling a gun on two men outside Paddy’s Touchdown Lounge pleaded not guilty to felony assault with a weapon Thursday in Flathead District Court.

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Glacier vs. CMR Softball

Glacier Wolfpack hurler Jena Willis delivers a pitch during the first inning of Thursday’s nonconference softball outing with C.M. Russell at the Kidsports Complex.

Flathead vs. CMR Softball

Flathead’s Iris Matulevich catches a ball at second base during Thursday’s nonconference softball contest with C.M. Russell at the Conrad Complex.

Flathead Audubon Freezeout Lake Field Trip

Sam Palmiter of Kalispell sets up a scope for his son Aiden, 4, to look through on Saturday, March 31, at Freezeout Lake.

An Evening of Fine Arts

Students, teachers and staff from area schools and members of the public walk through the gallery show at An Evening of Fine Arts at the Arts and Technology building at Flathead Valley Community College on Tuesday night, April 3, in Kalispell.

A final hug, a soldier's death

From left, O.T. Green, Dan McPhee of DJ McPhee Construction, Juliane White and her son Liam discuss the progress on the house Wednesday afternoon in Lakeside.

Caring Chiropractic

Dr. Lynda Purdy, a chiropractic physician, in her office on Thursday morning, April 5, in Kalispell. Purdy is the executive clinic director of Caring Chiropractic, a nonprofit clinic that provides sliding fee services.

Daybook

Annexation approved for eating disorder facility

North Star Institute, a proposed residential treatment facility for people with eating disorders, took a step forward this week. The Kalispell City Council on Monday approved its annexation request and a conditional use permit for its operation.

Monday interviews ahead for nominees

A new Flathead County commissioner could be selected Monday, the two sitting commissioners said Wednesday.

Fugitive tracked down in Boise

Samuel Haley Rose is back in jail for want of a date.

Knocking down the wall

Chuck Harmon of Harmon Crane & Rigging Inc., uses a wrecking ball to knock down a concrete wall Tuesday afternoon at the former gravel pit on Whitefish Stage Road. The land is being cleared to make way for a new rail-served industrial park. The Flathead County Economic Development Authority bought the 40-acre parcel in February from MDU Resources Group. Over the next couple of months, the port authority will hire an engineering firm to help lay out and design the property and determine what infrastructure, including a railroad track extension, will be needed to offer businesses shovel-ready sites in the industrial park. The industrial park will be marketed mainly to manufacturing, wholesale trade and agricultural businesses that need access to rail service. The goal is to have it developed over the next 18 to 24 months.

Tot who fell into pond dies

The 2 1/2-year-old child who died after falling into a frozen pond Tuesday has been identified as Havehn Adams.

Plows begin park snow job

Glacier National Park snow plows started churning their way through snow on Going-to-the-Sun Road this week.

Landfill expansion to be discussed Tuesday

The long-term plan to acquire more land to expand the Flathead County landfill will be discussed at a Tuesday, April 10, meeting in Kalispell.

Transients given a week to clear out

Deputies with the

Marcella Strack, 91

Maxine Luce Hoffman, 84

Weather Features

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Weather features. Wednesday, April, 4, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Guy 'Sandy' Sandridge, 86

Guy “Sandy” Sandridge passed away of natural causes on March 28, 2012, at his home in Montana with his wife at his side.

This Week in the Flathead: John Guymon

John Guymon performs at the Kalipsell Eagles on March 30.

Pete Sifuentes Profile

Pete Sifuentes at Mission Builders on Monday, April 2, in Lakeside.

Monday Profile

Pete Sifuentes leads an orientation at Crossroads Discipleship Training School, a five month long program co-hosted by Youth With A Mission and Mission Builders.

Cloudy Dawn at Glacier

Lake Lake McDonald reflects a cloudy predawn sky on Wednesday, April 4, near Apgar Village.

Dameon Michael Knaff

Dameon Michael Knaff, son of Kyle and Gloria Knaff of Kalispell, was born Nov. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Boy, 2, dies after fall into frozen pond

A 2 1/2-year-old boy died Tuesday night after he fell into a frozen pond in Lincoln County.

Man guilty of two charges

A 34-year-old Columbia Falls man pleaded guilty by way of Alford to two charges March 28 in Flathead District Court.

Conn Road stretch reopens

A stretch of Conn Road that had been closed during most of the winter because of hazardous, icy conditions has been reopened.

Longtime middle school leader retiring

After 16 years in Kalispell schools and 40 years in education, Kalispell Middle School Principal Barry Grace is retiring.

Barry Grace

Barry Grace is retiring after 40 years in education.

Six seek interim county position

The names of three nominees to fill a vacant spot on the Flathead County Commission are expected to be delivered to county commissioners today.

Airport plan

Annex demolition planned Saturday

The west annex at the Flathead County Courthouse is pegged for demolition on Saturday.

Airport plan calls for expansion

Kalispell City Airport should be upgraded to meet B-II design standards and make it eligible for funding through the federal Airport Improvement Program.

Borrowed rifle called due after 10 years

A Whitefish resident called the

Foundation donates $115,000 to library

The Flathead County Library Foundation has donated $115,000 to the Flathead County Library System.

Kalispell union contract adds new pay grades

A union contract amendment creating new pay grades for some Kalispell city workers was unanimously passed by the Kalispell City Council on Monday.

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Joan Janes, 82

Anna J. Holmquist Lyght, 90

Kevin L. White Jr., 29

Sgt. Kevin L. White Jr., 29, passed away in his sleep at the family home on Sunday, April 1, 2012.

Peggy Louise Zimmerle, 85

Peggy Louise Zimmerle, 85, passed away March 15, 2012, in Kalispell. 

Cassandra 'Sandy' Bright, 68

Cassandra “Sandy” Bright, 68, passed away on Sunday, April 1, 2012, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

R. Michael 'Mike' Hannon, 61

Ronald Michael Hannon, M.D., passed away on March 27, 2012.

The Walls Came Tumbling Down

Chuck Harmon of Harmon Crane & Rigging Inc., works to knock down the old wall at the gravel pit on Whitefish Stage Road in Kalispell on Tuesday afternoon, April 3.

Subway Crash

Members of the Kalipsell Fire Department and Northwest Energy respond to a possible gas leak on Tuesday afternoon at the Subway on U.S. Highway 2, in Kalispell. A woman struck the restaurant at 12:50 p.m. causing minimal damage to the building and the gas meter. The Kalispell Police were also on the scene.

Light Poles

Montana Lines worker Chester Orr guides the base of a decorative street light into place Tuesday morning in downtown Whitefish. Tuesday, April, 3, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.

March 26 - April 1, 2012

Daybook

Kalispell negotiating for new city manager

Kalispell officials held a telephone conference call Monday afternoon with one of the three finalists for the city manager job to start negotiations for a contract.

New book details 'The Indian Way'

Seventeen years ago, Neil Van Sickle delved into research about the North American fur trade with the idea of writing a number of vignettes on the topic.

Former students laud college's engineering program

Ryan Mitchell, engineer and office manager of Robert Peccia and Associates, received Flathead Valley Community College’s Distinguished Alumni Award for 2012.

Man faces 2 new bail-jumping charges

A 23-year-old Kalispell man being sought by police after failing to appear in court now faces new related charges.

Two plead innocent to marijuana charges

A man and a woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony charges of manufacturing dangerous drugs.

Caller reports 'hoodlums' in area

A caller on Third Avenue West told the Kalispell Police Department Monday morning that his vehicle had been egged. The man just wanted officers notified of the “hoodlums in the neighborhood.”

Silo Installation at the Tamarack Brewing Company

A 33 foot tall, 55 thousand pound grain silo is installed outside the Tamarack Brewing Company on Monday morning, April 2, in Lakeside. According to Andra Townsley of Tamarack they will be getting their first full truck load, 48 thousand pounds, of two-row barley from Malt Europ of Great Falls sometimes within the next two weeks. This Montana grown product provides the base for all the beers made by Tamarack. Until now the brewers have had to put 50 pound bags into the mash tun to begin the brewing process. Sometimes they would go through as much as 1500 pounds or 30 bags per day. The grain will now be augured directly from the silo into the brewhouse. "The brewers are pretty excited about this,"said Townsley. "We're excited too because a grain silo is kind of iconic of craft brewing companies and we started pretty small. With the new store and restaurant in Missoula our production has increased so much that a silo became necessary."

Flying at Freezeout

A ring-billed gull comes in for a landing at Pond 3 at Freezeout Lake on Saturday afternoon, March 31, near Choteau.

High Winds in Browning

Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake People work to reload a tractor trailer that had a load of hay bales pushed off by the wind on Sunday afternoon just outside Browning at the intersection of U.S. Highway 2 and Heart Butte Road.

"The Lookout"

Leif Haugen, an 18-year veteran of Northwest Montana firefighter lookouts, is the subject of the documentary, "The Lookout," that will be screened April 26 at the O'Shaughnessy Center. Filmmaker Brian Bolster will also have another film screened that evening: "Mercantile," a documentary about the Polebridge Mercantile. 

On the lookout

Man's solitary summers subject of film

Leif Haugen spends his summers in solitary mountain-top firefighter lookouts, a lifestyle that has been captured in a short documentary called “The Lookout” that’s screening at film festivals across the country.

Monday Profile

FVCC student Corey Ledbetter practices his paramedic skills during a class. He has been named one of the Newman Civic Fellows for his leadership and civic spirit.

Civic spirit

FVCC paramedic student gets prestigious citation

Corey Ledbetter, a sophomore paramedic student at Flathead Valley Community College, has always enjoyed helping others and his community but never expected any special recognition.

Whitefish mulls reduction in conditional-use permit fees

The fee for a commercial conditional-use permit in Whitefish may be going down significantly.

Kalispell man in 'crazy mood' charged in gun incident

A 36-year-old Kalispell man is facing charges after allegedly facing down a man with whom he had been upset — with a shotgun and a revolver.

A wake-up call: Do you get the feeling something terrible just happened in the USA?

Like so many in this great country of ours, I’ve been asleep at the wheel. Oh, I’ve been cognizant of the trials and tribulations of government at work but have not become as strong a voice and advocate for change as I should have.

Caller reports oatmeal, toys and lamp on auto

Sunday morning, a caller on Windward Way told the