Friday, August 31
Glacier Football
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Glacier quarterback Taylor Hulslander (center) is stopped at the one-yard line by two Rustler defenders Friday evening during the Wolfpack's loss to C.M. Russell at Legends Stadium. Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Montana ablaze
Multiple fires burn more than 100 square miles across the state
Firefighters continue to hold the Dart Creek Fire at bay in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Local delegates
Mark Noland, Don and Debbie Kaldschmidt and Scott and Jill Reichner were Montana delegates to the Republican National Convention in Tampa, Fla.
Reservation fire
LuAnna Fox and her 3-year-old daughter Kamille watch her 10-year-old son Sheldon look for salvageable items from the ruins of the family’s house on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in this Aug. 9 photograph.
A home burns
A home burns just north of East River Road in the Pine Creek Fire in Paradise Valley near Livingston Wednesday.
Super Scooper
A “Super Scooper” plane flies low over the south end of Hungry Horse Reservoir Thursday as part of the firefighting effort on the Dart Creek Fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. The Canadair CL-215 planes skim over the surface of the reservoir, pick up a load of water through special vents, then fly to the fire.
Pine Creek Fire
An air tanker drops retardant on the Pine Creek
Reservation burning
With burned range land stretching into the distance, Lee Carlson tightens a barbed wire fence damaged by a wildfire on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation in this Aug. 9 photograph. A horse escaped through the fence earlier in the day. It's been an especially brutal fire season for the 4,500 person tribe living in a remote, arid region in eastern Wildfires have burned more than 90 square miles on the reservation since June.
Fires ravage remote reservation
Fire danger to remain high into the weekend
Black bears run amok in two cities
A group of black bear reports came in to the
US 2 Head-on Crash
A Kalispell firefighter walks through the scene of a head-on collision Friday afternoon at the intersection of US 2 and US 93 Alternate Route. One woman was transported to Kalispell Regional Medical Center with unknown injuries. Friday, Aug. 31, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
FVCC Building Update
Construction continue at the Rebecca Chaney Broussard Center at Flathead Valley Community College.
Fishing the Bighorn
test mt sky
U.S. 93 bypass
Trucks drive through a roundabout on the U.S. 93 Alternate Route on Thursday afternoon.
Corrected TV section to be printed in Saturday's paper
Spring Wheat Harvest
Welcome, Evergreen Chamber
Kudos to business owners and community promoters in the Evergreen area for starting their own Evergreen Chamber of Commerce.
Flathead County growth policy update moves toward completion
The Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday moved a step closer to approving a revision of the 2007 growth policy by passing a resolution of intent to approve the update.
County OKs lower budget
The Flathead County commissioners lauded the county’s management team for fiscal conservatism on Thursday as they unanimously approved a $75.2 million budget for the coming year.
Daybook
Some schools wait to open next week
Several Flathead Valley schools begin classes next week after the Labor Day holiday:
Glacier netters sweep Hellgate
It was a slow start to the first conference match of the season but the Glacier volleyball team was able to regroup and sweep Missoula Hellgate in three sets.
Class B football roundup: Bigfork back for more
Ready or not, the Class B football season opens tonight at home for Bigfork.
Glacier set to tangle with angry CMR squad
Coming off a big road victory at Billings Skyview, the Glacier football team didn’t get much time to relax. The Wolfpack (1-0), hosts Great Falls C.M. Russell (0-1) tonight in its home opener, with the Rustlers coming in angry.
Braves look for bounce-back victory at Missoula Big Sky
A week after a season-opening loss at home to Billings Senior, the Flathead Braves football team is heading on the road in search of a win against Missoula Big Sky.
Thursday, August 30
Glacier vs. Hellgate Volleyball
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Junior Cassi Hashley makes a block at the net Thursday night during Glacier's home victory over Missoula Hellgate. Thursday, Aug. 30, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
James Jude McGarvey, 70
James Jude McGarvey, 70, “went to be with our Lord” on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012, at 11:46 p.m.
Boy's freedom doesn't last long
Young escapee nabbed after three hours
A 12-year-old Hungry Horse boy was back in custody three hours after escaping from the Flathead County Juvenile Detention Center at about 7 p.m. Wednesday.
Karis McKinney
Karis McKinney, daughter of Silas and Jennifer McKinney of Kalispell, was born June 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Reckless teenagers ignore warning
A
Kenneth Horn, 66
Firefighters attack new fire in wilderness
Firefighters have been hitting a new fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness hard since it was detected Wednesday morning.
Amalgamated Sope Company
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Bars of soap line the table of the Amalgamated Sope Company's booth Tuesday afternoon at the Whitefish Farmers' Market. Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Blue Moon
A nearly full moon is partially obscured by clouds on Wednesday, August 29, just south of Whitefish. Tonight sky watchers will get to see a blue moon, the second full moon for the month of August. The next blue moon is predicted to occur in July 2015.
Montana 19-Mile Fire
Janice Jansky hugs Joe Adams after he reported that her home was still standing in the Toll Mountain area of the 19-Mile Fire buring 10 miles southeast of Butte on Wednesday morning. The fire has burned more than 4 square miles and at least nine structures, including two houses.
Wildfires burn homes, cause injuries
BILLINGS — Rapidly-expanding wildfires across a broad swath of southern Montana have caused injuries and burned more homes, buildings and vehicles, authorities said Thursday, as firefighters struggled to contain the flames amid hazardous conditions.
Detention center escape
Detail of an opening in a small area of metal in the roof of the outdoor recreation at the Flathead County Juvenile Detention Center on Thursday morning, August 30, in Kalispell. The opening was made by James Coby Smith, 12, when he escaped on Wednesday evening. Smith is back in custody.
Detention center repair
Maintenance workers repair the roof of the Flathead County Juvenile Detention Center Thursday morning in Kalispell. According to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, James Coby Smith, 12, pried open a small area of metal in the roof of the outdoor recreation area and crawled out Wednesday evening. Smith is back in custody.
James Coby Smith
Making do with 'Mega Two'
Stephanie Girardot focuses her camera Wednesday morning on her youngest child, 6-year-old Dawson, to snap one last photo before he starts first grade in JeNeil Devlin-Grace’s class at Peterson Elementary School.
Election department moving to fairgrounds
The Flathead County Election Department is on the move again to better accommodate voters for the upcoming general election.
Kalispell briefing residents on South Meadows work
Facing two months of dug-up yards and roads in South Meadows, Kalispell officials will meet with residents tonight to try and prepare them for an upcoming project to improve stormwater drainage in their neighborhood.
Company negotiates for former Walmart property
The founder of a Maryland-based company that plans to manufacture an “off-grid” power system is pursuing negotiations to lease or purchase the old Walmart building on U.S. 2 in Evergreen.
Libby gets green light to build new hospital
St. John’s Lutheran Hospital in Libby announced Wednesday that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development has agreed to guarantee a $32 million loan to build a new hospital.
Stoltze: Tradition and future
Congratulations to F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Co. for a remarkable 100 years of survival in the volatile wood products industry, and for a huge helping of perseverance in pursuing development of a new co-generation plant at the sawmill west of Columbia Falls.
Daybook
Wednesday, August 29
Osweiler battling for backup job
ENGLEWOOD, Colo. (AP) — Rookie Brock Osweiler gets one more shot at winning the job as Peyton Manning’s backup, and he’s going to get that opportunity in familiar surroundings.
Man reports being robbed at knifepoint
World's top guitarists in Bigfork
The top guitarists in the world, as well as up-and-coming musicians, are in Bigfork this week for the Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival.
Flathead High stages 'Peter Pan'
Flathead High School Theatre begins the 2012-13 season with a production for the young and the young at heart with the enchanting children’s classic “Peter Pan” Sept. 6, 7 and 8 in the David M. Hashley Theatre. Show time is 7 p.m. each night.
Whitefish artist exhibits at Wyo. show
The Montana Arts Council has invited Kris A. Kramer to exhibit her work in the Montana booth at the 20th annual Exhibit and Sale at the Western Design Conference in Jackson Hole, Wyo., Sept. 7-9.
Bigfork artist part of family show
Work by Bigfork artist Darlene Morgan will be featured this fall in a family exhibit at Dixie State College’s Sears Museum Gallery in St. George, Utah.
Crown of the Continent Festival
Dave Grusin, a Grammy award winning American pianist, composer, arranger and producer, plays along with jazz master Lee Ritenour on Tuesday night at the Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival in Bigfork. For more on this week’s festival, see pages 8-9 in This Week in the Flathead.
Sportsman-Ski Haus expanding
Sportsman & Ski Haus in Kalispell has done so well with its sales per square foot that the company has decided to add quite a bit more of them.
Framer to host September artists' critique
Greg Smith hosts September’s Crits & Croissants forum at the Hockaday Museum of Art.
Man stabbed during fracas with teens
A 32-year-old man is in the hospital recovering after being stabbed early this morning on Helena Flats Road.
Season concert tickets still available
Tickets are still available for the Flathead Valley Concerts Association’s 2012-13 season.
Symphony hosts Fry Street Quartet
The Glacier Symphony and Chorale will host a special one-night concert featuring the Fry Street Quartet Sept. 7.
French pianist to perform in Whitefish
The creative and prolific French composer, pianist and conductor Michel Legrand will perform at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center Sept. 15 on the recently acquired Steinway concert grand piano.
Wall hanging to bring hope to cancer patients
For mixed-media artist and knitter Juliane "Jules" Ketcher of Lakeside, the fight against breast cancer is personal. Ketcher has witnessed several friends be diagnosed with the disease, including her best friend, and she is determined to give hope and inspiration to all breast cancer patients through an artistic fundraising project called Project Pink.
Team Teaching at Peterson
Stephanie Kolar reads to the second graders at Peterson Elementary on Wednesday, August 29, in Kalispell. Her co-teacher, Lauren Beach, used the time to place activity sheets on the student's desks.
Glacier golfers dominate at home
In a close contest entering the final round of the Glacier Invitational at Big Mountain Golf Club, Glacier’s Ryan Porch pulled away from the field, shooting a 5-under-par 67 to beat teammate Logan Iverson and Flathead’s Ryan Keenan by 11 strokes on Tuesday.
Sackett earns Big 12 honors
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. – Flathead grad and West Virginia University freshman outside hitter Hannah Sackett has been named Big 12 Offensive Volleyball Player and Rookie of the Week, the conference office announced Tuesday.
Local schools kick off soccer season
MISSOULA — The Glacier girls soccer team conceded a pair of second-half goals in a 2-0 loss at Missoula Sentinel in their season opener Tuesday.
Donahue wins in C-Falls
COLUMBIA FALLS — The Whitefish boys and Columbia Falls girls each separated themselves from the competition at the Columbia Falls Golf Triangular at Meadow Lake Golf Club on Tuesday.
Randy Lee Tenley, 44
Mary M. (Lensing) Hammer, 85
Mary M. (Lensing) Hammer, 85, formerly of Troy and Libby, died Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012, at her home in Spokane Valley, Wash., with her loving family at her side.
Edith C. Kair, 94
Edith C. Kair, 94, of Libby, passed away Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012, at Libby Care Center.
This Week in the Flathead: Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival
Julian Lage, left, plays with Lee Ritenour at the Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival on Tuesday, August 28, in Bigfork. The Julian Lage Trio will be playing tonight, August 30. Gates open at 7 p.m.
County taxes go down slightly in final budget
Work force grows to 522 employees
Flathead County’s final budget for the coming year adds seven employees to the payroll and gives most workers a 2.5 percent cost-of-living raise.
Daybook
Evergreen Chamber finds wide support
An informational meeting for the newly formed Evergreen Chamber of Commerce turned out to be more productive than its founders anticipated.
Trail project gets grant of $400,000
The Foys to Blacktail Trails project will receive a $400,000 grant to go toward acquiring 170 acres of forest in the Herron Park area southwest of Kalispell.
Fiber-optic line makes health links
A consortium of five hospitals and two community health centers ushered in a new era in Northwest and North Central Montana on Tuesday with the dedication of a 425-mile fiber optic network.
Chamber ideas sought on core area
Architect Corey Johnson said it succinctly: “It’s exciting to dream about what Kalispell will look like in the future.”
Tuesday, August 28
Health links
A fiber-optic line between Conrad and Whitefish is one of the main pieces of a 425-mile fiber-optic network built by a consortium of hospitals and community health centers.
Belligerent man had a few too many
A
Glacier Invitational
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Glacier's Shea Stevens chips onto the fifth green Tuesday afternoon during the Glacier Invitational at Big Mountain Golf Course. Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Bond ballots to be mailed today
Voters asked to approve $3.35 million
Voters in Kalispell Public Schools elementary district have until Sept. 18 to decide a $3.35 million bond request.
Sunrise on the stars and stripes
The flag atop the construction crane at Kalispell Regional Medical Center catches the first rays of sunrise on Tuesday. The flag and crane have been part of the Kalispell skyline since May 2011. The 120-foot-tall crane is scheduled to come down on Sept. 22. The flag as well as the two banners on the crane will be given to Pam Winston, widow of Fred Winston, a crane operator who died July 18.
Laurel Elaine Lam, 72
Laurel Elaine Lam, 72, died on July 31, 2012, in Casa Grande, Ariz.
Robert Glenn Strong, 87
Earnest Morgan 'Earnie' Cooper, 77
Earnie passed away on Sunday morning, Aug. 26, 2012, at his residence in Hot Springs Village, Ark.
Lodge at Whitefish Lake
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake The Lodge at Whitefish Lake employees prepare for the night rush at the tiki bar Monday afternoon. Monday, Aug. 27, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Bond Ballots
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Meghan Rowe, right, and Shea Berquist stuff envelopes with ballots for the proposed Kalispell Public School elementary school bond Tuesday afternoon at the Kalispell Public School Central Administration Office. A total of 13,053 ballots will be mailed out to voters today. Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Nikki Felts
Nikki Felts, daughter of Waylon and Jennifer Felts of Kalispell, was born June 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Dawson Miner
Dawson Miner, son of Benjamin and Jennifer Miner of Bigfork, was born June 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Carson Hunter
Carson Hunter, son of Ryan and Lindsay Hunter of Kalispell, was born June 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kiley Marie Lanktree
Kiley Marie Lanktree, daughter of Trevor Lanktree and Andrea Wyatt of Kalispell, was born June 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Blayne Kaylinn Graham
Blayne Kaylinn Graham, daughter of Faye Graham of Columbia Falls, was born June 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Cooper Veitch
Cooper Veitch, son of Casey and Alyssa Veitch of Kalispell, was born June 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jordyn Jensen
Jordyn Jensen, daughter of James Jensen and Ashlee Arndt of Kalispell, was born June 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Forrest Groshelle
Forrest Groshelle, son of Kyle Groshelle and Takara Juntenen of Kalispell, was born June 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Colton John Dugan
Colton John Dugan, son of Jason and Emily Dugan of Kila, was born June 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Serephina Mychaela Fay Prewitt
Serephina Mychaela Fay Prewitt, daughter of Richard and Brittani Prewitt of Kalispell, was born June 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Connor Greene
Connor Greene, son of Cale and Elizabeth Greene of Kalispell, was born June 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
John Moore
John Moore leaves St. Matthew’s Church on Wednesday morning for his trek to Big Mountain.
Acton Kendahl Farmer
Acton Kendahl Farmer, son of Cory and Lacie Farmer of Libby, was born June 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Cassandra Mae Hegstrum
Cassandra Mae Hegstrum, daughter of Cody Hegstrum and Tina Campbell, was born June 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Rose Marie Eisenbarth
Rose Marie Eisenbarth, daughter of Cory and Maggie Eisenbarth of Columbia Falls, was born June 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Easton James Carpenter
Easton James Carpenter, son of Brad and Harley Carpenter of Kalispell, was born June 15 at North Valley Hospital.
Finley Hagen
Finley Hagen, son of Joel and Tiffany Hagen of Bigfork, was born June 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Sierra Rayann Squires
Sierra Rayann Squires, daughter of Brandon and Amy Squires, was born June 17 at North Valley Hospital.
Zaniel Dayle Truman
Zaniel Dayle Truman, son of Katrina Truman of Kalispell, was born June 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jacob Troy Wilson
Jacob Troy Wilson, son of Dustin Troy and Annalise Wilson of Kila, was born June 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ava Grace Harris
Ava Grace Harris, daughter of Daniel and Annika Harris of Kalispell, was born June 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Aiden Alstadter
Aiden Alstadter, son of David Alstadter and Lindsey Ehlers of Kalispell, was born June 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Anderson Ruby Holm
Anderson Ruby Holm, daughter of Nathan and Susan Holm of Columbia Falls, was born June 7 at North Valley Hospital.
Sarin Bates
Sarin Bates, daughter of Branden and Michelle Bates of Columbia Falls, was born June 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Anja Doda
Anja Doda, daughter of Bledi and Paige Doda of Kalispell, was born June 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Blaine Homola
Blaine Homola, son of Kyle and Joni Lynn Homola of Kalispell, was born June 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Benjamin Edward Fortner
Benjamin Edward Fortner, son of Aaron and Heather Fortner of Eureka, was born June 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Gunner Ernest Whitaker,
Gunner Ernest Whitaker, son of Dwayne and Danielle Whitaker of Columbia Falls, was born June 15 at North Valley Hospital.
Passion Shyann Miller
Passion Shyann Miller, daughter of Dale Miller and Moriah Andrus of Eureka, was born June 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Morgan Henderson
Morgan Henderson, daughter of Aaron and Darby Henderson of Kalispell, was born June 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Landon David Lindberg
Landon David Lindberg, son of Blake and Amber Lindberg, was born June 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Elise Helen Plevel
Elise Helen Plevel, daughter of Aaron and Lauren Plevel of Columbia Falls, was born June 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Damon Havik Bruyer
Damon Havik Bruyer, son of Neeka Bruyer, was born June 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Salo Blaze Kuhn
Salo Blaze Kuhn, son of Holly Eddy of Kalispell, was born June 28 at North Valley Hospital.
Tristen Roger McKay
Tristen Roger McKay, son of Anthony McKay and Aubrey Tiller of Kalispell, was born June 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Jonas Campbell
Jonas Campbell, son of Chrs and Cara Campbell of Lakeside, was born June 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Isabella Bise
Isabella Bise, daughter of Daniel and Tomi Bise of Kalispell, was born June 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Chloe Nicole Loeffler
Chloe Nicole Loeffler, daughter of Cole and Lilli Loeffler of Whitefish, was born June 4 at North Valley Hospital.
Fisher Hills
Fisher Hills, son of Toby and Harmonie Hills of Polson, was born June 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Aaliyah Ryder MacNair
Aaliyah Ryder MacNair, daughter of Joe MacNair and Danniel Brickles, was born June 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Monday, August 27
Glacier golfers off to fast start at 2-day invitational
EUREKA — The Glacier boys are looking for their third-straight wire-to-wire tournament title while the Glacier girls are looking to make it two in a row.
Wife wields butcher knife against husband
The Flathead County Sheriff’s office got a report Sunday from an Eighth Avenue East address near Kalispell, with a man saying that his wife had been chasing him around the couch with a butcher knife, forcing him to leave the residence.
Meetings continue on Bad Rock Canyon rebuild
Discussion about how to rebuild U.S. 2 through Bad Rock Canyon is the focus of a third informational meeting planned Tuesday night in Hungry Horse.
Many Glacier grizzly
A young grizzly bear strolls along the shore of Sherburne Reservoir in the Many Glacier area on Glacier National Park's east side.
Smoke from distant fires clouds Flathead skies
Smoke that has poured into the Flathead Valley for several days is coming from a combination of fires in the Idaho Panhandle and west-central Montana, according to the National Weather Service.
College launches music expansion
Flathead Valley Community Colleges expanded its music program this fall with a new associate of music program drawing on the skills of six instructors with extensive musical training and experience.
US 93 Crash
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Kalispell emergency responders tend to a woman involved in a three-car crash Monday morning at the intersection of US 93 and Meridian Road in Kalispell. The woman was transported to Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Monday, Aug. 27, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Week in Pictures: August 20-26
Sasquatch stunt takes a tragic turn on highway
Kalispell man, 44, dies
A man dressed in a military-style “Ghillie suit” who was attempting to provoke a Bigfoot sighting was struck by two vehicles and killed on U.S. 93 south of Kalispell Sunday night.
Sunday, August 26
Broncos Fans Portrait
Carol Sullivan is pictured in the pool room at her home with next door neighbor Bob Applegate. The room is filled with Denver Broncos memorabilia.
Mile-high moment
Denver QB Brock Osweiler visits with the Sullivans — longtime Broncos fans
The moment still brings tears to Carol Sullivan’s eyes, but is joined by a smile when she thinks or talks about it.
Glacier golfers looking for more success at invitational
The Glacier boys will be going for their third straight team golf championship this fall today and Tuesday at the Glacier Invitational, while the Wolfpack girls will be looking to make it two straight.
Judge's rule on domestic violence disputed
WHITEFISH, Mont. (AP) — State prosecutors are appealing a Lincoln County justice court judge’s ruling that Montana’s domestic violence law has a “gross flaw” that discriminates against heterosexuals.
Property bill of rights part of update
A Flathead County growth policy update that includes a property owners bill of rights and a new chapter on gravel resources is on track for county commissioner approval Wednesday.
Music festival is crowning achievement for David Feffer
For the love of guitar
The Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival was born over a few drinks in the kitchen.
Woman accused of fifth DUI offense
A 45-year-old woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be her fifth offense of driving under the influence as well as fleeing from police and resisting arrest.
Kalispell man killed in single-vehicle rollover
A 26-year-old Kalispell man was killed after his vehicle went off the road for unknown reasons early Sunday morning on U.S. 2 west of Kalispell.
Woman hit by car taken to hospital
A woman was taken to the emergency room and listed in serious condition Sunday after she was reportedly involved in a vehicle versus pedestrian crash at North Main and Market Place streets in Kalispell.
Patrick Michael 'Papa' Mahar Sr., 67
Patrick Michael “Papa” Mahar Sr., 67, died at peace on Aug. 21, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center as a result of a tragic work-related accident. He was surrounded by family and friends.
Suspect denies $43,000 lumber theft
A 49-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of theft.
Cheating crisis a sad sign of times
As another school year begins, I was interested to learn that scores of teachers across the country are now forced to use what essentially amounts to digital spy programs to catch students who are cheating.
Black Mountain Software keeps customers happy
It wasn’t until about 10 years into its existence that Black Mountain Software lost its first client.
Vision taking shape for rail corridor
At the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce’s monthly luncheon on Tuesday, Kalispell officials will give an overview of ongoing work to draft a core area revitalization plan for the city’s railroad corridor.
Treasure made of timber: Photos of Glacier Park Lodge from the National Park Service Archives
A little more about the lodge:
Puzzling moves for Whitefish
We have a few questions about the Whitefish High School reconstruction project, and we’re guessing there are some Whitefish voters who are scratching their heads right about now, too.
Kidsports easement may cost $2.4 million
Developer sought for Victory Commons plan
The ballpark cost of a permanent easement for the Kidsports youth athletic complex on school trust land in north Kalispell: Approximately $2.4 million.
Overcrowding = classroom needs
As hard as it is to believe, the leisurely days of summer are drawing to a close as schools across the country are opening their doors for the first day of school.
Daybook
FVCC registers for fall semester through Aug. 31
Fall semester classes at Flathead Valley Community College begin Aug. 27 but students have until 5 p.m. Aug. 31 to apply and register for classes for the fall semester.
Saturday, August 25
Leslie Stott
Leslie Stott, daughter of Tom and Heidi Stott of Kalispell, was born June 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Evelyn Evon Mallery
Evelyn Evon Mallery, daughter of Remington and Angie Mallery of Kalispell, was born May 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Aubrey Hockett
Aubrey Hockett, daughter of Cameron and Leeanne Hockett of Kalispell, was born June 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Peyton Wynne-Wallway
Peyton Wynne-Wallway, son of Andrew Wallway and Madaline Wynne of Kalispell, was born June 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Harper Maxine Fisher
Harper Maxine Fisher, daughter of Christopher and Keshia Fisher of Coram, was born May 22 at North Valley Hospital.
Colton Caron
Colton Caron, son of Ryan and Kelsi Caron of Kalispell, was born June 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Fischer Dean Laferriere
Fischer Dean Laferriere, son of Chad and Anna Laferriere, was born May 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Kiersten Cox
Kiersten Cox, daughter of KC and Melissa Cox of Kalispell, was born June 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Izabel Marie Harris
Izabel Marie Harris, daughter of Richard Harris and Angela Glode of Kalispell, was born May 16 at North Valley Hospital.
Declan McKay
Declan McKay, son of Ryan McKay and Heidi Bybee of Kalispell, was born June 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Cali Marie King
Cali Marie King, daughter of Jeff King and Christina Galbraith of Kalispell, was born May 23 at North Valley Hospital.
Hannah Ruth Landis
Hannah Ruth Landis, daughter of Jamy and Lisa Landis of Bigfork, was born June 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ayden Joseph Fisher
Ayden Joseph Fisher, son of William Fisher and Didi Kimmel of Eureka, was born May 16 at North Valley Hospital.
Bailee and Gavin Persson
Bailee and Gavin Persson, daughter and son of Joshua Persson and Breanna Boyd of Eureka, were born June 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Alani Jazmine Wright
Alani Jazmine Wright, daughter of Jelani Wright and Marcie Heeter of Kalispell, was born May 16 at North Valley Hospital.
Morgan Hope Kelly
Morgan Hope Kelly, daughter of Sean and Marilyn Kelly, was born May 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Jacob Kristopher Coburn
Jacob Kristopher Coburn, son of Tom and Brittany Coburn of Kalispell, was born May 19 at North Valley Hospital.
Bryson Oliver O'Dell
Bryson Oliver O’Dell, son of Auston Bergeson and Emily O’Dell of Whitefish, was born May 26 at North Valley Hospital.
Oberon James Donaldson
Oberon James Donaldson, son of Scott Donaldson and Christine Rosalez of Stryker, was born May 22 at North Valley Hospital.
Jackson Henry Pele
Jackson Henry Pele, son of Brian and Kelli Pele of Kalispell, was born May 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Austin Alexander Evans
Austin Alexander Evans, son of Alex and Aubrie Evans, was born May 17 at North Valley Hospital.
Yugan Chandru
Yugan Chandru, son of Chandru Thambidurai and Kavitha Anandan of Kalispell, was born June 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Madison Jo Orem
Madison Jo Orem, daughter of Beau and Amy Orem of Columbia Falls, was born May 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Chevelle Fish
Chevelle Fish, daughter of Patrick and Amanda Fish of Whitefish, was born June 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Cora JoEllen Kirkland
Cora JoEllen Kirkland, daughter of Kyle Kirkland and Peggy Potter of Kalispell, was born June 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Lydia Phillipson
Lydia Phillipson, daughter of Meghann Phillipson of Kalispell, was born June 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Derek Gorton
Derek Gorton, son of Brian and Ashley Gorton of Kalispell, was born June 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Aayla Grace Foster
Aayla Grace Foster, daughter of Seth and Katie Foster of Eureka, was born May 19 at North Valley Hospital.
Cyrus Preston Johnson
Cyrus Preston Johnson, son of Tyler and AnnaRose Johnson of Lakeside, was born May 15 at North Valley Hospital.
Beau Thomas Siarkauski
Beau Thomas Siarkauski, son of Geoff Siarkauski and Breanna Perry of Kalispell, was born May 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Glacier sweeps CMR, Great Falls in volleyball
The Wolfpack took awhile to get going but found its rhythm in a sweep of the Great Falls schools on Saturday at GHS.
Flathead spikers start 2-0
The Flathead volleyball team started the season off with a pair of wins over Great Falls C.M. Russell and Great Falls High on Saturday at FHS.
Class A football: Late burst boosts Whitefish
WHITEFISH — The Whitefish Bulldogs overcame a rocky first half riddled with penalties and mental mistakes to earn an emotional 45-24 win over Class A nonconference rival Havre in their season opener Saturday afternoon.
Class A soccer: Bulldogs blank Yellowjackets
STEVENSVILLE — Megan Danczyk scored three goals and assisted on another to guide Whitefish past Stevensville 5-0 on Saturday in the Class A soccer opener for both schools.
Remains of veteran found in Bob
Gateway to splendor: Centennial plans under way for Glacier hotel
Workers arriving at camp in March 1912 along a remote siding on the Great Northern Railway mainline had a tall order as winter dragged on.
Health care over easy, with fries on the side
People sure are funny.
Ronald Dean Lapp, 56
Florence Irene Leslie, 83
On Aug. 20, 2012, Florence Irene Leslie “was released by her Lord and Savior from the bonds of this earth and allowed to go home.” Florence passed away from natural causes at a local hospital in Great Falls. She was 83 years old.
Edward Francis Winkler, 74
Edward Francis Winkler was born Nov. 5, 1937, in Chicago, and was a Kalispell area resident for the last 17 years.
Whitefish Football
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Whitefish's Shane Marcial (6) shoves off a defender has he makes his way into the end zone Saturday afternoon during the Bulldog's home win over Havre. Saturday, Aug. 25, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Keira Eden Joy Rodgers, 5 months
Keira Eden Joy Rodgers, 5 months old, of Newark, Del., “went from her parents arms into the arms of Jesus” on Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012, at A.I. duPont Hospital for Children in Delaware.
School bells ring for many next week
Following is a roundup of local schools that begin classes next week:
Whitefish High School: More space added as design is altered
Designs for the reconstruction of Whitefish High School have changed dramatically as the district moves from concept closer to reality.
Signs aim to deter break-ins
The Kalispell Police Department is working with business owners on a new way to prevent customers from becoming victims.
Lake County interim judge selected
Twelve file for election after Wall resigns in the wake of lawsuits
A Charlo attorney has been appointed the interim replacement for former Lake County Justice of the Peace Chuck Wall.
Daybook
Northwestern A Football Preview
Two Northwestern A football teams will get a jump on the rest of the league this weekend.
Glacier thumps Skyview, 38-14
BILLINGS — The Glacier Wolfpack looked every bit the team that was picked among the best in the state, blowing out Billings Skyview 38-14 on Friday night.
Senior rolls by Flathead
After a close first half, Flathead’s offense sputtered and Billings Senior running black Nolan Saracini broke loose on several long runs as the Broncs defeated Flathead 41-21 in the season-opener at Legends Stadium Friday.
Friday, August 24
Anaconda, Frenchtown pool leaders in volleyball
POLSON — Anaconda breezed through pool play with an 8-0 mark on Friday at the Northwestern A vs. Southwestern A Tip-Off Tournament.
Polson
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Vice president of Black Mountain Software Jack Liebschultz Wednesday morning at the Polson office. Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012 in Polson, Montana.
Crashes claim two lives
Two men were killed in vehicle accidents Friday in Flathead and Lincoln counties.
Band too loud for local residents
Christopher Jay Elam, 61
Christopher Jay Elam, 61, passed away suddenly Friday, Aug. 17, 2012. He was doing what he loved best, cooking barbecue for a crowd.
Fire on the lake
Paddlefish Sports hosted a fire-spinning show Wednesday night at City Beach on Whitefish Lake. The fire spinners performed on stand-up paddleboards. To see a video of the fire spinners, go to www.dailyinterlake.com
Keira Eden Joy Rodgers, 5 months
Thursday Race League at Whitefish Mountain Resort
Matt Butterfield of Whitefish turned in the fastest time for the 30-39 year old Men's Expert level in the Thursday night race league on August 23, at the Whitefish Mountain Resort. Butterfield completed three laps with a time of 1:22:45. Thursday was the final race of the seven week annual race series.
Profile: Don and Ruth Slabaugh
Monday Profile
Don and Ruth Slabaugh outside their home in Whitefish on Wednesday.
Bigfork man accused of vicious assault on wife
A 20-year-old Bigfork man is facing felony charges of aggravated assault and criminal endangerment after his wife reportedly ran onto Marina Cay early Sunday morning covered in blood and screaming for help.
Four finalists in running for emergency director
The Flathead County Office of Emergency Services will soon have a new permanent director.
Daybook
Final fair tally shows 79,954 visitors
The final tally for attendance at the Northwest Montana Fair showed 79,954 people attended events and exhibits last week, a nearly 2 percent increase over last year.
Opening day looms next week for many schools
It’s time to hit the books again for a new school year. The following area schools start next week. Here is an update on back-to-school information in each district.
Redistricting peace is welcome
Congratulations to the state’s Redistricting Commission for reaching a tentative plan to redraw Montana’s legislative districts — an obviously difficult task that has historically been extremely contentious.
Brrr! - Beware winter in Glacier Park
Summer hikers beware: A winter weather advisory has been issued for high terrain in Glacier National Park from 4 a.m. to noon today.
Thursday, August 23
AA football preview: Flathead has new attitude
Despite having to replace the majority of its starting lineup after losing 33 seniors from a year ago, players are optimistic at Flathead High School football practice.
AA football preview: High hopes for Glacier
One more game.
Glacier golfers grab titles at Missoula Invite
For Glacier High School’s golf program, it doesn’t get much better than this.
Local dancers audition for national show
Three local tap dancers are in suspense as they await word on whether they’ll get to perform in Washington, D.C., later this year.
Cheyenne Rae Selders
Cheyenne Rae Selders, daughter of Jason and Kimberly Selders of Columbia Falls, was born May 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Robby Schuttler
Robby Schuttler, son of Rob and Brianna Schuttler, was born May 3 at North Valley Hospital.
Raylan Scott Hulett
Raylan Scott Hulett, son of Tyrel and Michaela Hulett of Whitefish, was born May 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Brystol Lynn Stewart
Brystol Lynn Stewart, daughter of Ryan and Nichole Stewart of Dayton, was born May 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Lilly Ann Owens
Lilly Ann Owens, daughter of Derrick Owens and Elizabeth Sutch of Kalispell, was born May 9 at North Valley Hospital.
William Seamus Ayers
William Seamus Ayers, son of David and Kayla Ayers of Kalispell, was born May 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Samuel Joseph Kennedy
Samuel Joseph Kennedy, son of Tom and Amy Kennedy, was born May 7 at North Valley Hospital.
Jaycee Lynn Augare
Jaycee Lynn Augare, daughter of Frank Augare and Geri Lynn McNeely of Columbia Falls, was born May 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Siralene Mae Enger
Siralene Mae Enger, daughter of Jared and Victoria Enger of Kalispell, was born May 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Gage Nathan Ray Koch
Gage Nathan Ray Koch, son of Brian and Reba Koch of Kalispell, was born May 4 at North Valley Hospital.
Ava Ryan Myers
Ava Ryan Myers, daughter of Michael and Tori Myers of Libby, was born May 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Matthias Mark Fritz Ek
Matthias Mark Fritz Ek, son of Brian and Meche Ek of Kalispell, was born May 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Sophia Evangeline Brown
Sophia Evangeline Brown, daughter of Jesse Brown and Angela Longoria of Kalispell, was born May 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Guns stolen in brazen burglary
Roadside hill blooms throughout seasons
It’s mid-August, and as usual Linda Spangle’s steeply terraced flower garden along U.S. 93 in Kalispell is a stunning array of blooms.
Collin Joe Fetveit,
Collin Joe Fetveit, son of Chad and Lindsay Fetveit, was born May 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Robert C. Larson, 81
Robert Larson died June 1, 2012, in his sleep at his home in Tacoma, Wash.
Fire Spinning on Whitefish Lake
Fire spinners give a performance while on standup paddleboards at City Beach on Whitefish Lake.
Resignation of judge snarls unresolved cases
The resignation of Lake County Justice of the Peace Chuck Wall may have thrown a wrench into a great number of pending cases.
New city impact fee committee organizes
Kalispell’s new Impact Fee Committee members met for the first time Tuesday for a primer on the one-time “hook-up” fees the city charges for water, sewer, storm water, police and fire services.
C. Falls to lower property taxes slightly
Columbia Falls City Council is wrapping up a $6.22 million city budget for fiscal year 2012-13.
Man pleads innocent after rollover crash
A 24-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony count of criminal endangerment and a misdemeanor count of driving under the influence.
Wilderness search under way for Marine
Fire crews attacking new starts
Firefighters have been scrambling to fires over the last couple of days, most of them triggered by thunderstorms that moved over the Flathead area Tuesday.
Hopeful economic signs abound
There are many hopeful signs pointing to long-awaited economic recovery in the Flathead Valley.
Activist veterans dismay special operators
Daybook
Wednesday, August 22
Glacier golfers top Missoula leaderboard
Glacier High School golfers dominated the leaderboard at the first day of the Missoula Invitational at Larchmont Golf Course Wednesday.
Beating the early season heat
MHSA helping football coaches prevent heat stroke
Exertional heat stroke claimed the lives of five high school football players in the U.S. last summer, and with concerns about the potentially fatal illness sweeping the nation, the Montana High School Association (MHSA) added instructions on proper heat acclimatization to its mandatory online rules clinic for football coaches.
Ava Rae Henning
Ava Rae Henning, daughter of Wesley and Amanda Henning of Kalispell, was born May 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Dahlia Corum
Dahlia Corum, daughter of Evan and Mallory Corum of Whitefish, was born May 31 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Tucker Stratton
Tucker Stratton, son of Casey Stratton and Alyssa Jackson of Kalispell, was born May 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Olivia Iverson
Olivia Iverson, daughter of Kevin and Nicole Iverson of Kalispell, was born May 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Artem Trushchenkov
Artem Trushchenkov, son of Georgy Trushchenkov and Tatyana Trushchenkova of Kalispell, was born May 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Caidan Culver
Caidan Culver, son of Noah Culver and Mary Gravlee of Kalispell, was born May 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Avery Mae Jones
Avery Mae Jones, daughter of Joshua and Aaron Jones of Kalispell, was born May 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Henry Fisher
Henry Fisher, son of Dan and Nicole Fisher of Columbia Falls, was born May 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Keeghan Page
Keeghan Page, son of Amalia Page of Kalispell, was born May 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Hazel Fisher
Hazel Fisher, daughter of Darin and Carla Fisher of Columbia Falls, was born May 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kassidy Joy Speer
Kassidy Joy Speer, daughter of Ryan and Chelsea Speer of Columbia Falls, was born May 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Arthur McIntosh
Arthur McIntosh, son of Tobin McIntosh and Kaycee King of Columbia Falls, was born May 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Paizlee Hayes
Paizlee Hayes, daughter of Katelynne Hayes of Bigfork, was born May 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kale Burton
Kale Burton, son of Justin Burton and Stephanie Boyd of Kalispell, was born May 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Abigail Ruth Bare
Abigail Ruth Bare, daughter of Michael and Kiersten Bare of Lakeside, was born May 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Finley Putzler
Finley Putzler, daughter of Chris and Wendy Putzler of Kalispell, was born May 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rhain Woods
Rhain Woods, daughter of Corey Woods and Jeri Marsh of Kalispell, was born May 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Landyn Burlingham
Landyn Burlingham, son of Teddy and Lyndsey Burlingham of Columbia Falls, was born May 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Isabella Long
Isabella Long, daughter of Justin Long and Katherine Cook of Kalispell, was born May 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Timothy Williams
Timothy Williams, son of Robert Williams and Melissa Morgan of Kalispell, was born May 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Traveling troupe stages 'Hamlet' at FVCC
Take one depressed prince. Add a ghost, a murderous uncle, a crazy ex-girlfriend and a bevy of sneaky schemes and you have a recipe for one of the greatest plays in history.
'Guitar Night' a fundraiser for nonprofit
The third annual Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival kicks off Friday with a unique event to benefit a local nonprofit.
Contest brings international guitarists to Bigfork
The newest event to the Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival is the semifinals of a high-profile international guitar competition.
More concerts throughout festival
Other Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival concerts include:
John Denver tribute show to aid CASA
One of the country’s leading tenors will bring the music of John Denver to Whitefish in a benefit concert for a local nonprofit.
Officers called out to football fight
Irish group kicks off Whitefish Theatre's season
Whitefish Theatre Co.’s 2012-13 season opens Sept. 8 with traditional Irish music.
Landing mishap shuts runways down
Air traffic at Glacier Park International Airport was shut down for 25 minutes Wednesday morning after a small plane lost its nose gear while landing.
Film club screens 'Gone With the Wind'
The Historic Film Club at the Museum at Central School will screen “Gone with the Wind” at 7 p.m. Monday.
Book clubs meet over next few weeks
Several local book clubs are planning meetings over the next few weeks. All groups are open to the general public, and there is still time to get this month’s books read:
Beverly Irene Brown Gilley, 75
Beverly Irene Brown Gilley, 75, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her family on Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. “She now joins her husband of 53 years in heaven.”
Cross Property
Foundation
The stone foundation of the Half Moon School teacherage.
David Feffer
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation chairman David Feffer poses for a portrait in Bigfork on Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.
Shakespeare in the Park
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake From left, actors Carly Cornelius, Nile Hawver and Christopher Peltier of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks perform Hamlet at Flathead Valley Community College on Tuesday night. Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Garceau Fire
Smoke rises Wednesday afternoon from a charred hill side where The West Garceau fire burned west of Polson Wednesday, Aug. 22, 2012 in Polson, Montana.
Laughing Horse Lodge
Emergency response
Ambulances, emergency vehicles and Flathead County Sheriff's deputies staged near a "Super Scooper" firefighting plane at Glacier Park International Airport during the response to a small plane with gear trouble at another part of the airport.
Airport incident
Fire engines and emergency personnel converge on a small plane with a nose-gear problem Wednesday morning at Glacier Park International Airport.
Daybook
Kalispell schools gear up for Aug. 29 opening day
It’s that time again to set the alarm clocks, prepare lunches and pack those new school supplies.
Evergreen businesses form new Chamber
TJ Wendt said he believes it’s time more people realized how much Evergreen has to offer.
Kalispell woman, 24, pleads guilty to trashing apartment
A 24-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony count of criminal mischief.
Couple saves lives by buckling up
Karren and Patrick McKinzie won an award recently but received the most precious gift — their lives — for buckling their seatbelts on June 11.
Kalispell council OKs $44.98 million budget
The Kalispell City Council on Monday adopted a pared-back, $44.98 million budget for fiscal year 2012-13. But because of a drop in the city’s overall taxable value, it’s expected to raise taxes slightly.
Credit union calls are fraudulent
Several Whitefish Credit Union members have received fraudulent calls to their mobile phones from an automated recording stating that their Whitefish Credit Union card has been compromised.
Porch leads Glacier boys to win at Great Falls Invitational
GREAT FALLS — The Glacier boys ran away with the Great Falls Invitational title, posting a team total of 584 over the two day tournament to win by 12 strokes. The Wolfpack’s second round total of 287 was 10 strokes better than any other team on Tuesday at Eagle Falls Golf Club.
Tuesday, August 21
Pioneer firm marks 'a big day'
The F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Co. marked its centennial Tuesday with a groundbreaking dedication ceremony for a new co-generation plant that is expected to be operational by October 2013.
Marcie Rosetta (Sindt) Curto, 78
Marcie Rosetta (Sindt) Curto passed away Aug. 2, 2012, in her daughter’s arms with tears, prayers to Jehovah and singing to her “You Are My Sunshine.”
Undressed swimmers reported
The
Dallas LeRoy Gronley, 60
Cindy Nielsen, 61
Sidewalk Art
Danaka Felton, 5, of Helena, works on a chalk drawing with her grandmother's neighbor, Simon Hill, 10, of Kalispell, on Tuesday afternoon, August 21.
Marjorie (Kinsey) Clandfield
Marjorie (Kinsey) Clandfield, our beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister and aunt, passed away peacefully Aug. 18, 2012, in Kalispell, in the loving presence of family.
Groundbreaking ceremony
Stoltze Vice President Chuck Roady, right, shakes hands with Montana State Forester Bob Harrington on Tuesday.
Stoltze looks to the next century
A centennial gathering at F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Co. served as a groundbreaking ceremony for the new co-generation plant. The footprint of the new plant is at the right in this photo.
Monday Profile
Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation chairman David Feffer poses for a portrait in Bigfork on Aug. 21.
Week in Pictures: August 13-19
Monday, August 20
Daybook
Wes Morton
Wes Morton, son of Zane and Lynzee Morton of Columbia Falls, was born May 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Atlee Gale
Atlee Gale, daughter of Josh and Ashlee Gale of Columbia Falls, was born May 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Daniel Manning
Daniel Manning, son of Doug and Chaela Manning of Kalispell, was born May 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Sally Eichner
Sally Eichner, daughter of Tim and Jody Eichner of Kalispell, was born May 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Avery Lacy
Avery Lacy, daughter of Jeremy and Amanda Lacy of Kalispell, was born May 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Brody Peltier
Brody Peltier, son of Jonathan and Jessica Peltier of Eureka, was born May 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Bradley Michael Bodo Hiebert
Bradley Michael Bodo Hiebert, son of Levi Hiebert and Destiny Odom of Kalispell, was born May 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Alexander Levengood
Alexander Levengood, son of Chris and Malloiry Levengood of Kalispell, was born May 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Johnny Yuma Lockwood
Johnny Yuma Lockwood, son of Tim Lockwood and Cierra Long of Kalispell, was born May 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Laci McCauley
Laci McCauley, daughter of Teague and Jennifer McCauley of Kalispell, was born May 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Naomi Brist
Naomi Brist, daughter of Rob and Tess Brist of Kila, was born May 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Weston Close
Weston Close, son of John and Alicia Close of Kalispell, was born May 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Izaak Walton
Izaak Walton, son of Rande and Barb Walton of Dayton, was born May 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kyler Kubai
Kyler Kubai, son of James and Amanda Kubai of Kalispell, was born May 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Landon Kyger-Wheeler
Landon Kyger-Wheeler, son of Andrew Wheeler and Kimberly Kyger of Kalispell, was born May 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jonah Michael Jackola
Jonah Michael Jackola, son of Shane and Kristin Jackola of Kalispell, was born May 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Makiah Kramer
Makiah Kramer, dauguhter of Jason and Minette Kramer of Kalispell, was born May 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Glacier boys in 1st, girls 2nd at first golf meet
GREAT FALLS — Glacier’s golf squads are off to a super start for the 2012 Class AA high school season.
Schools unveil expansion plans
This fall Heather Houseworth’s daughter will be a third-grader at Edgerton Elementary, one of the schools slated for classroom additions if a $3.35 million elementary bond request passes in September.
City of Whitefish plans surplus auction
Looking for a 1941 Ford tractor?
Trespassers threaten landowner
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a call Sunday from a Spotted Bear Road resident in Martin City who said that several men cussed at him and threatened to beat him up after he told them to quit trespassing on his property.
Early numbers show boost in fair attendance
Northwest Montana Fair officials are still crunching numbers, but it looks as though attendance at this year’s fair was up 4 or 5 percent over 2011.
Suspect Tased, officer injured in scuffle
Kalispell Police ended up using a Taser on a combative teenager Sunday, and one officer suffered injuries in the scuffle near Smith’s Food and Drug.
Scoopers part of fire fight
Two “Super Scooper” air tankers have joined the fight against the West Garceau Fire burning about 15 miles west of Polson.
Woman, 91, conquers water fear
For as long as Ida Schroeder can remember, she has been afraid of water. At 91, she decided it was time to confront her fear.
Donna Lee Veigel, 62
On the evening of Aug. 15, 2012, Donna “left this life to be with her Lord and Savior” from her home in Creston, with her family at her side. She had put up a hard fight with COPD for a number of years.
Schroeder conquers fear of water
After 91 years spent afraid of water, Ida Schroeder took her first boat ride on Flathead Lake recently.
Trio of crashes blocks busy highway
Three motor vehicle accidents Monday tangled up traffic on U.S. 93 on the north side of Kalispell.
Peterson School addition
This preliminary architectural drawing shows the proposed addition of four classrooms and a multipurpose room at Peterson School in Kalispell.
London 2012 Olympic Closing Ceremony (Tinie Tempah, Jessie J & Taio Cruz)
Adventures in 2012
Highline Trail Glacier National Park
Roadside hill blooms with color
A lone driver makes his way north on U.S. 93, past Linda Spangle’s roadside garden, in the predawn light Aug. 20 in Kalispell. Flowers ranging in size, shape and color dot the hillside from April until the first hard frost.
Rollover Accident Creates Long Lines on Highyway 93
An early view of a rollover accident on Highway 93, at the intersection of Four Mile Drive, on Monday, August 20, in Kalispell. Traffic was backed up along the highway in both directions. North bound was back up to south of Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Sunday, August 19
Man with tattoos causes trouble at fair
The Kalispell Police Department received a report that a man with a lot of tattoos groped a 14-year-old girl at the fairgrounds.
Longtime Sheriff's Posse member remembers group's early days
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Posse has been around in some form for 65 years, and for all but the first nine of those years it has counted Loyal Chubb among its members.
Man pleads not guilty to assault
A 47-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony charges of failure to register as a violent offender and partner or family member assault.
Lawsuit won't derail local apartment project
Missoula-based Sparrow Group is pushing forward with its plans to build Depot Place, a 40-unit, $3.9 million affordable senior housing project near downtown Kalispell.
West Point grad recounts tense moments in Afghanistan
Only a few weeks ago, West Point graduate 1st Lt. Chase Giacomo of Kalispell was with his platoon taking Taliban fire from the mountaintops in one of the most dangerous areas of Afghanistan.
Whitefish to vote on final budget
The Whitefish City Council tonight is poised to adopt a $36.9 million final budget for fiscal year 2013 that contains a trimmed-back pay increase for workers and lower than expected growth in the city’s property tax base.
Last of 4 burglars sentenced
A 26-year-old Kalispell woman was given a 10-year suspended sentence Tuesday in Flathead District Court after being convicted of felony burglary and theft.
Two plead guilty to theft from relative's home
A pair of Kalispell residents pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony burglary charges.
Market stock sale brings in nearly $259,000
More than 200 steers, hogs, and lambs were auctioned at the 2012 Northwest Montana Fair’s Market Stock Sale on Saturday, grossing nearly $259,000.
County zoning process streamlined
The Flathead County Planning Office has figured out a way to shave three months off the normal eight-month-long zoning amendment process.
Local entrepreneurs gain through networking groups
The weekly meetings for the Whitefish chapter of the international business networking organization BNI are, as the saying goes, all business.
Rodney Atkins
Country star invites fair crowd to ‘take a back road’
Friends, family remember missing hiker
Health-care uncertainty is vexing
No matter how you come at it, the only certainty about the controversial Affordable Care Act is the uncertainty it has created across the country.
County not happy with flood-plain revisions
A letter sent by the Flathead County commissioners to the Federal Emergency Management Agency about flood elevations assigned to Evergreen properties echoed the frustrations felt by many Evergreen residents over the federal agency’s revisions.
Gates open at 5 p.m. for the final event of fair
More than $4,000 in cash prizes await the winners of the 24th annual demolition derby at the Northwest Montana Fair today.
Kalispell may beef up city reserves
Financial advisers recommend people keep enough savings to be able to support themselves for six months without any income.
Uncertainty hurts job creators
You can’t steal second base with one foot firmly on first — a saying that is as true for business as it is for baseball.
Daybook
Monday
Who will stand up for the worker?
What about the worker?
Saturday, August 18
Fair PRCA Rodeo: Birthday ride for Hill
In front of a grandstand packed with his friends and family members, West Glacier’s Beau Hill gave his daughter an extra present for her 10th birthday at the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA rodeo Saturday.
KATS drop times at Zone meet
KATS swim coach Brandon Rannebarger said Jamie Bouda, Logan Streit and Madison Walters all had time-dropping performances at the Age-Group Western Zones swimming championships in Grand Junction, Colo., Aug. 7-11.
Dent doubles up with scores in bareback, saddle bronc
Double duty might turn out to be a profitable venture for Mullen, Neb., cowboy Steven Dent.
Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo
Clay Gruel of Great Falls hangs tough during his second ride in the saddle bronc Saturday night at the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. Gruel posted a 78 on his first go.
Man reports seeing drone-like object
A man contacted the
Will Karl Marx have the last laugh?
Columbia Falls driver hopes to ace demo derby
Chris Cheff has a straightforward explanation about his love of demolition derbies: “It’s not every day you can beat the hell out of another car.”
Bridger Kinkade Scott Sindt
Bridger Kinkade Scott Sindt, son of Clay Fraser and Cissy Sindt of Columbia Falls, was born April 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Cynthia Jessica Grace Killingsworth
Cynthia Jessica Grace Killingsworth, daughter of Jessica Barker-Telles of Kalispell, was born April 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jacob Matthew Elgin
Jacob Matthew Elgin, son of Russell and Jacklyn Elgin of Kalispell, was born April 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Elsa Joy Gregorash
Elsa Joy Gregorash, daughter of Nathan Gregorash and Stephannie Olson of Whitefish, was born April 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Brennen James Bell
Brennen James Bell, son of Chad and Laurie Bell of Columbia Falls, was born April 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Lily Townsend
Lily Townsend, daughter of Dan Townsend and Jenny Williams, was born April 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Hot weather could expand Garceau Fire
Burning activity on the Garceau Fire is expected to pick up this weekend with warmer and drier weather settling over the area 15 miles west of Polson.
Combine sparks field fire
A blaze sparked by a fire on a combine burned 2 1/2 acres Friday afternoon in on Steel Bridge Road in Creston, sending a plume of gray smoke into the sky.
Fruit dressed up for grocery store display
It would be hard to miss the display of locally grown cherries at Kalispell’s downtown Super 1 store.
Local jobs number the best in four years
Unemployment dips to 7.9 percent
Flathead County’s unemployment rate improved to 7.9 percent in July, the best report since before the recession began four years ago.
Daybook
Friday, August 17
Masked man steals casino's booze
Networking
From left, Kyle Allred of KBA Web Marketing, Mishelle Johnson of Insty-Prints and Jill Evans of SendOutCards chat at the start of the BNI weekly meeting on Thursday in Whitefish. In the background are Ry Keller, left, of Valley Maintenance and Property Management and David Boye of Black Diamond Mortgage Corporation.
Go hog wild: Pig wrestling teams get down and dirty in muddy competition
Pig wrestling continues today at the fairgrounds
There was standing room only — and a whole lot of squealing — at the opening round of Double D Pig Wrestling at the Northwest Montana Fair Friday.
Meade on a mission
Taekwondo standout hoping to make U.S. junior national team
Six weeks after rising to the top of her age division, 15-year-old Cassidy Meade is sweating through a training session at Big Sky Martial Arts in Kalispell in preparation for another challenge.
KATS to make waves on Flathead Lake
It’s just a short, end of the season swim for KATS swimming coach Emily von Jentzen.
Taylor Kenneth Saucier, 23
Taylor Kenneth Saucier, 23, passed away Aug. 11, 2012, in Williston, N.D.
Trudy Humberson, 77
Trudy Humberson, 77, a former Whitefish resident, died in Casper, Wyo., on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2012.
Fair Feature: Pig Wrestling
Victoria Gragg of the Pig Warriors gets help from her teammates John Bramlet, center and Vin Stevens, right, during the Pig Wrestling contest at the Northwest Montana Fair on Friday, August 16, in Kalispell. The Pig Warriors took third place.
Gene Louis Holliday, 57
Gene Louis Holliday, 57, born Sept. 22, 1955, passed away on Aug. 12, 2012, at his home in Troy.
Fair Feature: Draft Horses
Deseree Stutzman, 10, of Marion, helps prepare Lilly, a Clydesdale for the Draft Horse Show on Friday afternoon, at the Northwest Montana Fair. The show included a parade of breeds, a junior driving class, in which Deseree and her sister Cora, 8, competed, as well as various demonstrations.
Bond Meeting
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Plans for upgrades to local elementary schools sit on a table Thursday afternoon during a meeting at Edgerton Elementary School to discuss the upcoming bond. Thursday, Aug. 16, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Northwest Montana Fair Parade
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Sitting in his 1951 Chevrolet pickup truck, Dennis Borgen waits for the Northwest Montana Fair to start. Friday, Aug. 17, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Darlene Schottle
Demolition Derby Preview
Chris Cheff works to remove the rear window from his car on Thursday, August 16, at a friends garage in Helena Flats. Cheff said that the all the doors would need to be welded shut and all the glass removed as safety precautions for the the Demolition Derby that takes place tonight at the Northwest Montana Fair.
Demolition Derby
Chris Cheff of Columbia Falls on Thursday welds the doors of his 1976 Buick shut as part of the preparations for the Demolition Derby tonight at the Northwest Montana Fair. Cheff said one of the best benefits of taking part in a demolition derby is anger management.
Rodney Atkins
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Marissa McCrea watches the Rodney Atkins' concert from atop a pair of shoulders Wednesday night. Wednesday, Aug. 15, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Rodney Atkins Concert
Glacier popular in July
Visitation to Glacier National Park was up 9.6 percent compared to last July, and for the year it is up 14 percent compared to the first seven months of last year.
Work under way on 2 roads
The Montana Department of Transportation began work Thursday on U.S. 2 West of Kalispell from mile post 113 to 114.
In search of barbecue perfection
The familiar scent of smoky, grilled goodness is returning to Whitefish this weekend.
Pet therapy team certification offered
Anyone interested in visiting hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities with a pet can learn about becoming certified as a pet-therapy team at free informational sessions from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday or from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday in the former chapel behind the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Coal protesters are way off base
Protesters who live in a land of pixie dust and unicorns occupied the state Capitol in Helena early this week to make their opposition to coal and gas development known to all.
Bozeman firm to rebuild Whitefish High
Whitefish School District trustees decided Langlas and Associates had the edge over five other firms and named the Bozeman-based firm the general contractor and construction manager for the high school renovation and remodel project Tuesday.
Environmental agency signs rule to cut haze in Montana
Daybook
Activity limited on Garceau Fire
Despite warmer weather and clear skies, burning activity was limited on the West Garceau Fire Thursday.
Rough go for cowboys
Thursday was a night for the horses and bulls.
Thursday, August 16
Vasco Reynaldo Bachini, 99
Vasco Reynaldo Bachini, 99, of Havre, died of natural causes Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012, at Northern Montana Care Center.
Northwest Montana PRCA Fair Rodeo
Frank Billy of Box Elder shouts as he tightens his rope during the team roping competition Thursday night at the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. Billy and his partner Mark Cassel of Shelby posted no time.
Boy in log jam pulled from river
Photographer exhibits blue-ribbon attitude
Amie Bartell smiled broadly as she walked up to the special needs Open Class Photography exhibit at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday.
Maxine Hamlin, 96
Maxine Hamlin, 96, of Whitefish “went to join ‘Pop’ fishing in heaven” on Aug. 15, 2012, at The Springs of Whitefish.
Man gets three years for theft
A 23-year-old man was sentenced to three years in jail Aug. 2 in Flathead Court after pleading guilty to two counts of felony theft.
Profile: Loyal Chubb
Loyal Chubb, a member of the Sheriff's Posse, sends out a call to a fellow Posse member on Wednesday, August 15, in Kalispell.
Networking
From left, Kyle Allred of KBA Web Marketing, Mishelle Johnson of Insty-Prints and Jill Evans of Send Out Cards chat together at the start of the BNI weekly meeting on Thursday, August 16, in Whitefish. In the background are Ry Keller, left, of Valley Maintenance and Property Management and David Boye of Black Diamond Mortgage Corporation.
Fair Feature: Amie Bartell
Amie Bartell next to one of her blue ribbon winning photographs at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday, August 15, in Kalispell.
Amie Bartell
Amie Bartell smiles as she sees how many of her photos earned ribbons in at the Northwest Montana Fair Wednesday.
Sign rules clarified
As the Flathead Valley braces for the onslaught of political signs geared to Nov. 6 general election, there are a few rule clarifications the county wants candidates and other sign bearers to note.
Homecoming for Giacomo
Army 1st Lt. Chase Giacomo with his pregnant wife Carmin and their one-year-old son Graham on Wednesday, August 15, at his parents home near Foys Lake. Giacomo said his mother decorated the house with yellow ribbons for a welcome home party for him.
Planning Board backs assisted-living expansion plan
Kalispell Planning Board members on Tuesday supported a proposed expansion at Prestige Assisted Living and a proposal to extend city sewer service to the Green Acres Court mobile home park.
Hot Springs plans benefit
Reeling from the shock of bids at least 25 percent higher than expected for their new medical clinic, the residents of Hot Springs have regrouped, cut back the building plans and planned a benefit auction and picnic on Saturday, Aug. 18, to collect more money.
Sports Profile: Cassidy Meade
Cassidy Meade works on her technique during a training exercise on Wednesday at Big Sky Martial Arts in Kalispell.
Family plans memorial service for missing hiker
Still going strong: Longtime 4-H leader enters more than three dozen exhibits
It was old home week at the 4-H and open-class building at the Flathead County fairgrounds on Tuesday as Marjorie Olsen rolled her wheelchair through the aisles, stopping for hugs and hellos from most everyone.
Board OKs $3.3 million bond vote
Roughly 13,000 ballots were printed Wednesday and Kalispell voters now have to consider whether to support a $3.35 million elementary district bond request.
Daybook
Whitefish fire causes minor damage
About 20 firefighters from Whitefish, Kalispell and Evergreen responded to a structure fire Wednesday at 128 Central Ave. in Whitefish. The fire was caused by the careless use of smoking materials, according to Whitefish Fire Chief Tom Kennelly. The burning material fell off the porch of a second-floor apartment and landed between the buildings, where it started the fire. There was some difficulty extinguishing the fire because the space between the buildings is only about seven inches. Kennelly estimated the damage at between $2,000 and $3,000.
Governor's remarks go a bit too far
We get it that Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer was trying to discuss the importance of children learning both American and Native American history, but come on, governor, that was really no way to represent Montana!
Wednesday, August 15
Rodeo lineup loaded with ranked talent
If there’s one thing you’ll be sure to see over the next three days at the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo, it’s the best roster of cowboys that Kalispell has seen in years.
Hadlee Anna White
Hadlee Anna White, daughter Mitchell and Julia White of Columbia Falls, was born April 26 at North Valley Hospital.
Alexandria Rebecca Baggs
Alexandria Rebecca Baggs, daughter of Ronald Baggs and April Newman of Hungry Horse, was born April 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Lennan Belle O'Connor
Lennan Belle O’Connor, daughter of Craig O’Connor and Sarah LeFeuvre of Kalispell, was born April 26 at North Valley Hospital.
Arya Marie Chilson
Arya Marie Chilson, daughter of Ryan and Megan Chilson of Whitefish, was born April 26 at North Valley Hospital.
Grayson Ruonavaara
Grayson Ruonavaara, son of Kurt and Krista Ruonavaara of Kalispell, was born April 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Brooklyn Bauer
Brooklyn Bauer, daughter of Jacob and Lacie Bauer of Bigfork, was born April 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Roslyn Benson
Roslyn Benson, daughter of Michael Benson and Stephanie Taylor of Columbia Falls, was born April 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Marley Patricia Johnson
Marley Patricia Johnson, daughter of Eric and Roni Johnson of Chatfield, Minn., was born April 24 in Rochester, Minn.
Taylor Mae Rose Miller
Taylor Mae Rose Miller, daughter of Dakota Canen and Makenzie Miller of Kalispell, was born April 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Taylor Miller
Taylor Miller, daughter of Dakota Canen and Kenzie Miller of Kalispell, was born April 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Bethany Ariel Bras
Bethany Ariel Bras, daughter of Brandon Bras and Robin Anderson of Columbia Falls, was born April 23 at North Valley Hospital.
Andre Floyd releases first album in 11 years
Eleven years ago — the last time Andre Floyd and Mood Iguana released an album — the world was a different place.
Whitefish Theatre Co. prepares 34th season
“Rooted in community and staging the world” is the theme for Whitefish Theatre Co.’s 34th season of presenting vibrant, entertaining and meaningful performing arts for Northwest Montana.
Actors, audiences sought for Glacier plays
The Wolfpack Theatre Co. at Glacier High School will join forces with school alumni and current students and teachers to participate in an extreme rite of theater: writing, directing and performing four to six original short plays in just 24 hours.
Horse trailer hits high speeds
World's top guitarists converge in Bigfork
The Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival announces a seventh public performance to its lineup of music events scheduled for Aug. 24 through Sept. 1.
Stumptown Hoedown set to rock Whitefish Armory
The fourth annual Stumptown Hoedown outdoor music festival is slated for Saturday at the Whitefish Armory softball fields.
Blackhawk, The Outlaws headline Montana Music Festival
Country music hit-makers Blackhawk and Southern rock pioneers The Outlaws are the headliners for the second annual Montana Music Festival, slated for the Labor Day weekend Aug. 31 through Sept. 2 in downtown Whitefish.
Fire roars through area west of Polson
A wildfire that exploded Tuesday evening west of Polson has been sized up at 9,700 acres, but burning activity diminished Wednesday due to weather changes.
Free guitar workshops in Whitefish, C. Falls
As part of its Community Guitar Education Program, the Crown of the Continent Guitar Workshop will offer two free guitar workshops for school-age children and community residents in Columbia Falls and Whitefish Aug. 27.
Felter to hold book signings
The Purple Pomegranate, a fine craft specialty store, is hosting a book signing for Ruth Lane, author of “The Complete Photo Guide to Felting,” from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday.
Hockaday raffles Ace Powell painting
The Hockaday Museum of Art is holding a raffle for an original oil painting by renowned Montana artist Ace Powell.
Artist offers plein air workshop
On Sept. 10, artists from throughout the United States will join internationally known artist Calvin Liang for a five-day plein air workshop in Northwest Montana.
Leroy Porter, 76
Leroy Porter, 76, died of natural causes in his home on Aug. 1, 2012.
InciWeb RSS Feed
Fire Resource Links
Structure fire in downtown Whitefish
Firefighters from Whitefish, Kalispell and Evergreen were at the scene of a structure fire on Wednesday, August 15, at 128 Central Avenue in Whitefish.
This Week in the Flathead: Andre Floyd and Mood Iguana
Andre Floyd playing with Mood Iguana on Thursday, August 7, at Picnic in the Park in Kalispell.
West Garceau fire
This 10-second exposure shows the red glow of The West Garceau fire burning Tuesday night near Big Arm.
Spirit Fest
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A crowd fills the main arena to listen to the JC Vocal Band Tuesday evening during Spirit Fest at the Northwest Montana Fair. Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Rodeo Preview
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Nolan Conway wrestles a steer during last year's Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.
Elaine Elliott, 70
After a very short battle with liver cancer, Elaine Elliott “went to be with the Lord" on Monday, Aug. 13, 2012, at home with her family by her side.
Raymond W. Abbott, 80
Ruth E. McClinton, 94
Ruth E. McClinton, 94, “entered into eternal life” on Aug. 11, 2012, in the loving care of Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. She suffered from Alzheimer's for eight years.
Charles Maitland 'Chuck' Simpson, 88
Mission Valley wins regional championship
BURLEY, Idaho — It didn’t come easy. For the second straight tournament, the Mission Valley Mariners went to the very last game and came out on top.
McLean named All-State
Kalispell Lakers pitcher Matt McLean was named to the Class AA All-State baseball team on Tuesday, the fourth straight year a Lakers’ pitcher has made the team.
Tuesday, August 14
The West Garceau Fire
West Garceau Fire
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake The West Garceau Fire burns approximately 2,000 acres Tuesday evening near Big Arm. Fifteen homes from the Irvin Flats area were evacuated. Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012 in Big Arm, Montana.
City may help out Willows project
The Kalispell City Council on Monday seemed to agree the city should pay for at least part of an estimated $392,000 project to improve stormwater drainage in the Willows.
New radar to help weather forecasting
The National Weather Service in Missoula is working with some new technology that is expected to significantly improve forecasting in Western Montana.
$200,000 grant to help lure L.A. flights
Glacier Park International Airport has received a $200,000 grant from the U.S. Secretary of Transportation toward the creation of nonstop air service to the Los Angeles Basin.
Motorcycle chase reaches 100 mph
Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies chased a pair of people on a motorcycle early Tuesday morning when the cyclist fled, traveling at approximately 100 miles per hour. They were unable to apprehend the people, neither of which were wearing helmets.
Fire near Big Arm roars to 9,700 acres
A fast-moving fire that began Monday night southwest of Big Arm grew to more than 9,700 acres by Wednesday afternoon.
Chopper helps quell fire
The Daily Inter Lake
7 MILES BACK - fly fishing Montana's backcountry
Flathead Lake - Experience it by Boat
Bob Marshall Pack Trip Video Mash Up 2012
Monster Montana Bull Trout!!!
Glacier National Park Trip
Olympics 2012 Closing Ceremony Spice Girls Performance in 3D
Fire
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation helicopter drops water Tuesday afternoon on a grass fire off of Farm to Market Road west of Kalispell. Tuesday, Aug. 14, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Fair Feature: Marjorie Olsen
Marjorie Olsen, 87, with a photo of the awards she won at the 2011 Northwest Montana Fair on Tuesday, August 14, in Kalispell.
Fair Feature: Sheep Judging
Emily Hilde, 15, of Kalispell gets congratulations from her mother, Shelli Hilde, left, and Wayne Morgan after she took the championship ribbon in the Senior Novice Sheep Judging on Monday, August 14, at the Northwest Montana Fair in Kalispell. This was Hilde's first year working with lambs. The senior novice class is reserved for participants with two years or less showing experience with the animal being judged.
Mission Valley moves to semifinals with blowout win
BURLEY, Idaho — The Mission Valley Mariners moved into the final day of the Regional tournament with an emphatic win over Burley, Idaho on Monday, beating the Green Sox 16-3 in seven innings, racking up 22 hits in the win.
Polson girls open golf season with win at Anaconda
ANACONDA — The Polson girls’ golf team opened the season on a high note, winning the Anaconda Invitaional at Old Works Golf Course on Monday.
Monday, August 13
Daybook
Tuesday
Pair claim innocence in shooting incident
A pair of Hungry Horse residents pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to several felony charges related to a July 21 shooting incident.
Glacier transit center to expand
Glacier National Park has completed an analysis for an expansion of the Apgar Transit Center parking lot and the project has been approved.
Showmen shine with wiggly rabbits
Rabbit Showmanship may not have the shock factor of youngsters chasing squealing pigs or getting dragged by irritated steers, but few events have more “ahhh” than children wrestling wiggly bunnies under the judge’s scrutiny.
Wind shift expected on Condon fire
The Condon Mountain Fire grew substantially Sunday, but mostly due to burnout operations aimed at controlling it.
River victim identified
A Kalispell man who drowned on the North Fork Flathead River on Saturday has been identified as Raymond Abbott.
A horse walks up to a bar ...
Kalispell Police got a call Sunday regarding a horse that was tied up outside a bar on U.S. 2 West. There was a complaint that the horse appeared mistreated but the owner turned up with a trailer where there was adequate food and water.
Shirley June Sweeney, 85
Shirley June Sweeney, 85, passed away Aug. 10, 2012, in Kalispell.
Ron E. Howell, 48
Our beloved son, brother and father Ron E. Howell passed away unexpectedly July 3, 2012.
Bradley J. Watkins, 54
On Aug. 9, 2012, our beloved Bradley J. Watkins passed away at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell. Brad put up a valiant fight to conquer pancreatic cancer and asbestosis.
Raymond L. Pahrman, 72
Raymond L. Pahrman, 72, a retired cook, janitor and Montana Army National Guard veteran of Great Falls, died on Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2012, at his home, of natural causes.
Week in Pictures: August 6-12
Idaho man dies in paragliding accident
An Idaho man died Friday night after a paragliding accident off a rock cliff northwest of Elmo along Flathead Lake.
Rabbit Judging
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Brittany Bosley shows her Polish rabbit Annie in the Senior Showmanship class Monday morning during rabbit judging on the first day of the Northwest Montana Fair at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. Bosley was named grand champion of her class. Monday, Aug. 13, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Sunday, August 12
Mission Valley keeps hopes alive with win at Regionals
BURLEY, Idaho — The Mission Valley Mariners bounced back from a tough loss to blast by Wheatland, Wyo., 11-5 on Sunday at the Class A Northwest Regional American Legion baseball tournament.
Culinary superintendent gives advice to fair cooks
It's all in how the cookie crumbles
Diane Slobojan has been the Superintendent of the Home Culinary and Dairy Department at the Northwest Montana Fair for more years than she can precisely count.
Artist known for oversized papier mache
The enormous, brightly colored papier maché toadstool mushroom caps all over Nancy Roberts’ dining room are not an unusual sight.
Three are sentenced in burglary
Gun heist
Three people involved in a burglary on Spring Hill Road were sentenced Thursday during one massive, combined hearing in Flathead District Court.
Officials work to contain Condon fire
The Condon Mountain Fire burning about four miles northeast of Condon continued to grow this weekend, but officials overseeing the blaze said they have a good containment box around it.
County offers swine flu precautions during fair
Flathead County Health Officer Joe Russell said the health department has taken precautions to protect visitors to the Northwest Montana Fair from a new strain of swine flu that passes from pigs to people.
Missing items turn up in cars at Lawrence Park
Saturday afternoon, two people at Lawrence Park told the
Walk in the park
Hiking the Scenic Point Trail.
Green power
A giant greenhouse facility in which the regenerative processes of Mother Nature are imitated to create electricity, biofuel, rich organic soil fertilizer and a year-round food harvest will celebrate the official beginning of production with an open house and celebration on Aug. 23.
Health-care execs question impact of Affordable Care Act
In the aftermath of the United States Supreme Court ruling on the Affordable Care Act, Kalispell Regional Healthcare’s top administrators have continued their singular focus on controlling costs while keeping quality high as they navigate toward an uncertain future.
No easy fix in sight for Kalispell's sidewalks
A comprehensive review of Kalispell’s growth policy is inventorying parts of the city that have no sidewalks and other parts where sidewalks are spotty at best.
Landfill expansion Q & A set
A question-and-answer session about the proposed county landfill expansion will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday at the landfill office conference room.
Bigfork man pleads not guilty in river shooting
A 66-year-old Bigfork man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony charges of criminal endangerment and assault with a weapon.
Big Read: Whitefish to host month of 'Fahrenheit 451' reading events
Agency on Aging building rent discussed
Charles Lapp, one of the owners of the building rented by Flathead County for the Agency on Aging, told the county commissioners on Thursday he’d like to continue that rental relationship with the county.
Shelter director pushes dog licensing
Cliff Bennett, director of the Flathead County Animal Shelter, has a message for every dog owner in the county — every dog needs a license.
Perseid Meteor Shower
One of the Perseid meteors shoots across the predawn sky on Sunday morning, August 12, in Woods Bay.
Zinke is wrong to go after Obama
According to this newspaper and Politicker.com (a propaganda arm of the far right) Ryan Zinke is setting up a political action committee to be the voice of Special Forces and other military. Zinke wants to gain national political popularity by convincing veterans (all branches) that Obama is dangerous to America although Obama is considered to have done a good job in foreign matters (including national security).
County's fiscal prudence wise
There may be some Columbia Falls residents who are asking the county commissioners right about now, “Where’s the love?”
Daybook
Saturday, August 11
Mariners lose late at Legion A Divisionals
BURLEY, Idaho — The Mission Valley Mariners gave up a late lead to Rocky Mountain (Boise) in the second round of the Class A Region American Legion baseball tournament.
One dead after drowning in North Fork
An 80-year-old Kalispell man drowned on the North Fork of the Flathead River Saturday afternoon after his one-man pontoon boat capsized roughly half a mile north of the Glacier Rim access point.
Fire starts after drunk man rolls car
A
Huckleberry heaven
Bake-off judge Wade Muelhof looks over entries Saturday morning during Huckleberry Days at Depot Park in Whitefish. The annual event continues today.
Montana Raceway
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Shane Mitchell of East Wenatchee, Wash., drives in a heat race Saturday evening before the G.E.T Rich at Montana Gold 212 at Montana Raceway Park. Saturday, Aug. 11, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
1962: Extremists warned in vain against socialism & surrender
One last shot from 1962 and then I am finished.
Russell F. Beller, 80
Russell F. Beller passed away in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho on Aug. 3, 2012.
Barbara Joan Cooley, 80
Barbara Joan Cooley, 80, died peacefully surrounded by family on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.
Jack Allen, 68
“Death is not extinguishing the light; it is putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.
George Sumner Schmidt, 55
“A new construction supervisor was appointed to the highways in heaven” on July 31, 2012.
High school activities fund doesn't have negative balance
What was thought to be a negative balance in a Kalispell Public Schools student activities cash fund is not the case, according to administrators.
Huckleberry Days
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Huckleberry cupcakes were one of several entries in the bake-off Saturday morning at Huckleberry Days in Depot Park in Whitefish. Saturday, Aug. 11, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Marching orders: Camp molds musicians into synchronized group
The morning sun glints off the brass instruments of the Glacier High School marching band as students stride front to back and left to right.
Hungry for lambchops: Mutton-eating grizzly relocated
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks personnel have relocated a mutton-eating grizzly bear from the Lincoln area to an area on the east side of Hungry Horse Reservoir.
Condon fire still actively burning
The Condon Mountain Fire continues to burn actively, growing from about 150 to 283 acres on Thursday and Friday.
S. Meadows stormwater plan ready
After roughly two years of preliminary engineering and design, a project is taking shape to correct stormwater drainage problems in South Meadows.
Daybook
Friday, August 10
Mission Valley wins in extras
BURLEY, Idaho — The Mission Valley Mariners fought back after a late collapse to beat North Medford, Ore., in extra innings in their first round game at the Class A Northwest Regional American Legion baseball tournament on Friday.
Barbara Joan Cooley, 80
Unhappy occasion: Sisters were in Alaska for dad's birthday
Moving day
Nine men in two crews from Kalispell Structural Moving and Hodges Marine prepare to move a house one mile across Somers Bay in Flathead Lake Friday. The house weighed in at 95 tons — 48 of which were due to the chimney alone. The cost of a move like this is $45,000. This is the second time the house has been moved.
Cops called over unruly youths
The
Russell F. Beller, 80
Jack Allen, 68
George Sumner Schmidt, 55
Thomas Anthony Gilman, 84
Micheal Timothy Conner, 64
Mike, as his friends and family knew him, was born in Ogden, Utah, on Oct. 21, 1947, to Lonie T. Conner and Thelma Powell.
Montana Life: Sunrise on Scenic Point Trail
Sunrise on Scenic Point Trail
View of Scenic Point Trail as the first rays of sunrise begin to light the mountains of East Glacier on Sunday, July 29. The trail is 6.2 miles out-and-back with an elevation gain of 2350 feet.
Fair Feature: Diane Slobojan
Diane Slobojan, Home Culinary Superintendent, gets some help setting up tables at the Fair Expo Building on Friday morning, August 10. Slobojan has been decorating her section in red, white and blue for years in honor of her son who serves in the U.S. Coast Guard.
Diane Slobojan
Diane Slobojan, Home Culinary Superintendent, at the fairgrounds Friday morning in Kalispell.
First Bow
Verlon Edwards of Somers teaches Mila, his 9-year-old daughter, how to use her first bow on Friday, August 10, in their back yard in Somers. Edwards is a long-time bow hunter and this year decided to agree to Mila's request for a bow of her own.
Fishing for Minnows in Somers
Bruce Jellison and his 7-year-old granddaughter Madelaine Jellison, fish for minnows on Friday morning, August 10, off the docks in the Somers Bay.
Band Camp at Glacier High
Ashlee Buller, a junior plays the mellophone during band camp on Tuesday, August 7, at Glacier High School.
Shelter Makes Ad Push for Licensing Dogs
Cliff Bennett, director of the Flathead County Animal Shelter with Rusty, a newly arrived large male German Shepherd/Chow mix available for adoption on Friday, August 10, in Kalispell. Bennett is one of the voices behind the new ad campaign to raise awareness of the county-wide license ordinance and the reasons owners should get their dogs licensed. When unlicensed dogs are taken to the Shelter they face a variety of fees: a 30 dollars impound fee, 25 dollars per day housing, a citation from the police department if brought in by the police as well as potential vet bills. Most of this can be avoided by get a vet to verify the dog is current on its rabies vaccination and paying 15 dollars for the license.
FHS Kitchen
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Kalispell Public Schools executive chef Malcom Orser gives a cooking demonstration Thursday afternoon during at Flathead High School. Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Algae Aqua-Culture Technology
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake The Algae Aqua-Culture Technology facility at the Stoltze Mill Site in Columbia Falls. Friday, Aug. 10, 2012 in Columbia Falls, Montana.
Osweiler throws touchdown in NFL debut
Bobcats suspend Bigfork's Tudahl
Ashcraft 11th at State Seniors
Lots of activity at Raceway Park this weekend
County gets grant for defibrillators
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office will be able to afford automatic external defibrillators for all of its patrol cars after receiving a $38,500 grant.
Monday Profile
Nancy Roberts in the garden in her back yard Thursday in Kalispell.
Condon fire causes concern
A forest fire burning about four miles northeast of Condon has raised concerns among some locals because of increased burning activity in recent days.
Karl Rove in the Flathead
Ex-Bush adviser targets Tester
The political action committee formed by Karl Rove, a former adviser to President George W. Bush, has taken aim at Montana Sen. Jon Tester, and it just so happens that Rove has been in the Flathead Valley this week.
Attorney general hopeful concerned about PAC influence
The Montana Attorney General race hasn’t gotten a lot of attention, but Democratic candidate Pam Bucy says it will become more high profile largely because of advertising from outside money.
Rape, assault charges against Marion man dropped
Charges of rape and sexual assault against a 21-year-old Marion man were dismissed Thursday in Flathead District Court after it was determined that he was unfit to proceed.
Giving is up, but Red Cross still seeks blood donors
The American Red Cross announced Tuesday a boost in donations since the organization issued an emergency appeal for blood donors in June. However, the organization needs additional donations for an adequate supply through the summer.
Kudos for KRMC project
The expansion at Kalispell Regional Medical Center with a new $42 million surgical tower is certainly good news for the community.
New public works director embraces expansive job
Susie Turner is quickly settling into her new job as director of Kalispell’s public works department. An environmental engineer who has been working in the department since 2005, she decided to apply for the position after former director Bill Shaw departed in May.
Daybook
Thursday, August 9
Kalispell, Plains women drown in canoe accident
An interesting fashion statement?
The
Alvin Kalvig, 80
Alvin Kalvig, 80, of Blackduck, Minn., died Aug. 6, 2012, in Winsted, Minn.
Carol Heater and Fern Johnson
Carol Heater of Kalispell and Fern Johnson of Plains drowned in a canoeing accident Wednesday in the Eagle River north of Anchorage, Alaska. The women had only been in Alaska for a few hours when the accident claimed their lives.
En Garde!
Glacier senior Emily Higgason, captain of the color guard leads the outside afternoon practice on Tuesday, August 7, in Kalispell. In the background are Joceline Denton, left, and Miranda Hoffman, both juniors.
Geese
Canada geese on a channel of the Flathead River near Steel Bridge Road. Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Will the controversy at University of Montana keep the Grizzlies out of the playoffs this year?
Susie Turner
Susie Turner is Kalispell's new Public Works director. Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
This Week in the Flathead: Company Brass
Em Cohen is called up the the stage to help Rudy Rudolph of Company Brass during one of the band's songs Friday, July 20, at the North End Swing dance in Kalispell.
Temporary tent city
Hundreds of bicycle tourists fill Lawrence Park
A group of bicyclists on a one-week, 456-mile tour of Northwest Montana assembled for a massive campout in Kalispell’s Lawrence Park on Monday and Tuesday nights.
Kalispell schools all eligible for Title I funding
For the first time, all schools in Kalispell Public Schools are eligible for Title I funding.
Kalispell council OKs permit for Depot Place
Kalispell City Council gave its support to Depot Place on Monday, approving a conditional use permit for the proposed senior apartments.
Kalispell launches trial 'parklets' program
Summer opportunities for outdoor dining and shopping in downtown Kalispell?
Feds need to know their limits
While it is just a story from a town in Texas, it is a story that deserves wide attention because it involves outrageous overreach by a federal law enforcement agency.
Daybook
Wednesday, August 8
Devin Dean Copeland
Devin Dean Copeland, son of Jason Copeland and Karen Webster of Whitefish, was born April 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Jordan Murry
Jordan Murry, son of Steve and Leisa Murry of Kalispell, was born April 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Isabella Bowman
Isabella Bowman, daughter of Michael Bowman and Brittany Johnson of Kalispell, was born April 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Winter Amilya Bowman
Winter Amilya Bowman, daughter of Aaron Bowman and Jennifer Desjarlais of Columbia Falls, was born April 22 at North Valley Hospital.
Carter Kruse
Carter Kruse, son of Cory and Jessica Kruse of Kalispell, was born April 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Isabella Farley
Isabella Farley, daughter of Kevin and Michelle Farley of Kalispell, was born April 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Aidan Grimm
Aidan Grimm, son of Aaron and Chrissy Grimm of Eureka, was born April 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Charlotte Woods
Charlotte Woods, daughter of Jon and Kallie Woods of Kalispell, was born April 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ada Marie Saunier
Ada Marie Saunier, daughter of Renn Saunier of Kalispell, was born April 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Vintage vibe at jazz dance
It was all things vintage at a recent dance in Kalispell.
Energetic, friendly staff make Genki special
When you get tired of the same old burgers and fries, and you’re feeling a little adventurous, head downtown to Kalispell’s only authentic Japanese restaurant, Genki. It’s like a vacation for your taste buds.
Blues and barbecue at smoke-off
The annual Stumptown BBQ Smoke Off takes place Aug. 17-19 at Depot Park in Whitefish.
Man at campground brandishes gun
The
Local poet will give readings
Flathead Valley native John W. Wulf never considered himself a writer, despite the poetry he wrote all his life. But Wulf has published his first collection and will be reading from it at local book stores.
Theater group holds social
The Bigfork Community Players will host a gathering from 1 to 3 p.m. Aug. 19 at the Bigfork Senior Center.
Little Free Library opens in Kalispell neighborhood
The concept is simple: Take a book, leave a book, and no renewals, fines or Dewey Decimal System searches.
Shakespeare plays come to NW Montana
Montana Shakespeare in the Parks heads to Northwest Montana this month as part of its 2012 tour through Montana, northern Wyoming, eastern Idaho, western North Dakota and eastern Washington.
Symphony offers free master class
Glacier Symphony and Chorale is now accepting applications for a free master class with the Fry Street Quartet.
Christian, country stars perform at fair
It’s not too late to pick up tickets to this year’s big-name concerts at the Northwest Montana Fair.
Ragnhild Isane Herset, 78
Ragnhild Isane Herset, 78, of New Hope, Minn., died Aug. 7, 2012.
Audrey Jacobson, 83
Audrey Jacobson, 83, a longtime resident of the Hi-Line area, passed away peacefully of natural causes on Aug. 5, 2012, in Rockport, Texas.
Montana/Alberta Cup
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Logan Iverson smiles after a drive off the 13th hole Wednesday morning during Montana/Alberta Cup play at Whitefish Lake Golf Course. Wednesday, Aug. 8, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Little book nook
Rusty Halaas poses next to his Little Free Library outside his home in Kalispell.
Montana Bicycle Tour
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Tents and bicycles from the Montana Bicycle Tour fill the back of Lawrence Park Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Creston Hatchery
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake The new Creston Nature Explore Classroom features several different learning areas including a music, nature arts and building area. Friday, Aug. 3, 2012 in Creston, Montana.
African Inspiration
Instructor Kate Hunter helps Teagan Chisholm, 3, left, and Avery Sorensen, 4, left with their amulet painting on Monday, August 6, at the Stumptown Art Studio in Whitefish. The class featured art projects inspired by the African continent.
Glacier RCers (Remote Control)
Ad Clark's King Cat model jet takes off on Monday afternoon, August 6, at the Glacier RCers air field south of Whitefish. The plane weighs about 30 pounds and is traveling between 50 and 60 miles per hour at take off. The jet carries 2 liters of fuel which works out to between 6 and 8 minutes of flying time.
Driver cell-phone use banned in Columbia Falls
People in Columbia Falls must now keep their cell phones and other electronic communications devices put away while they drive or risk being cited and fined for a civil infraction.
Whitefish artist gets response from Her Majesty
Sixty years ago Whitefish artist James Bakke sent a drawing of Queen Elizabeth to Buckingham Palace, only to have the artwork returned with a gracious note saying Her Majesty couldn’t accept the gift.
Bouncer from Bigfork faces assault charges
A 21-year-old Bozeman man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of aggravated assault.
$10 million awarded in Libby fire
Tickets on sale for rodeo
Tickets are on sale now for the 2012 Northwest Montana Fair’s RAM PRCA Rodeo, Aug. 16 to 18. Tickets can be purchased at the fairgrounds office or online at www.nwmtfair.com.
Daybook
Tuesday, August 7
Avery aces, Iverson leads Montana at MT/AB Ryder Cup
Weisert, Brown in the hunt at State Seniors golf tournament
BILLINGS — Bigfork’s John Weisert and Tom Brown shot a 78 and 79, respectively, and Polson’s Johnny Ashcraft shot an 80 to lead the local contingent at the Montana State Senior Golf Association tournament.
Jayden Stark
Jayden Stark, son of Kayla Stark of Kalispell, was born April 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Levi Hartman
Levi Hartman, son of Ralph and Emily Hartman of Bigfork, was born April 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Isaac Rob Kaufman
Isaac Rob Kaufman, son of Bryan and Angie Kaufman of Whitefish, was born April 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Evangeline Rasmussen
Evangeline Rasmussen, daughter of Joel and Amanda Rasmussen of Kalispell, was born April 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Elissiah Arayah Barnes
Elissiah Arayah Barnes, daughter of Starla Hilliard-Barnes and Shannon Barnes of Kalispell, was born April 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Zayden Mattison White
Zayden Mattison White, son of Cori Lin White, was born April 18 at North Valley Hospital.
Payden Flora
Payden Flora, son of Andrew and Teressa Flora of Kalispell, was born April 18 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Vera Barbara Kumpula
Vera Barbara Kumpula, daughter of Tom and Megan Kumpula of Columbia Falls, was born April 19 at North Valley Hospital.
Trisa Jo West
Trisa Jo West, daughter of Jaron West and Nicole Merrill, was born April 18 at North Valley Hospital.
Fletcher Miles Tunnell
Fletcher Miles Tunnell, son of Adam and Randi Tunnell, was born April 18 at North Valley Hospital.
Elia Nevaeh Hill
Elia Nevaeh Hill, daughter of Paul and Hannah Hill of Whitefish, was born April 17 at North Valley Hospital.
Addysen Lynn Aronson
Addysen Lynn Aronson, daughter of Sadie Aronson, was born April 16 at North Valley Hospital.
Parker Simpson
Parker Simpson, son of Jake and Trina Simpson of Kalispell, was born April 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Magnusson Smith
Magnusson Smith, son of Daniel and Victoria Smith of Kalispell, was born April 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Tyson Pitkin
Tyson Pitkin, son of Richard Pitkin and Carmen Slama of Kalispell, was born April 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kensley Heuscher
Kensley Heuscher, daughter of Michael and Caitlin Heuscher of Kalispell, was born April 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Grace Taylor Johns
Grace Taylor Johns, daughter of McKeag and Taylor Johns of Kalispell, was born April 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ceasar Johnson
Ceasar Johnson, son of Magic and Mercie Johnson of Polson, was born April 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
James Richard Bopp
James Richard Bopp, son of David Bopp and Janet Summerscales of Columbia Falls, was born April 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Anabelle Correa
Anabelle Correa, daughter of Beau Correa and Jamie Nelson of Eureka, was born April 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Blayde Wehr
Blayde Wehr, son of Scott and Shoni Wehr of Kalispell, was born April 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Petition targets airport decision
Supporters of a referendum to challenge Kalispell City Council’s recent decision to upgrade the city airport with federal Airport Improvement Program money have been out with petitions trying to gather signatures.
Patient or not, he ended up with an evaluation
Trail companion
Hikers watch a mountain goat walk along the Highline Trail on Aug. 1 in Glacier National Park.
Suspended Montana quarterback denies rape charge
Gloria Jean Whittekiend, 69
Effie Marie Bradford, 83
This Week in the Flathead: Company Brass
Montana/Alberta Cup
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Teigan Avery hits a shot on the second hole Tuesday afternoon during the Montana/Alberta Cup at Whitefish Lake Golf Course. Tuesday, Aug. 7, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Week in Pictures: July 30 - August 5
Second time's a charm
Whitefish artist James Bakke sent this black and white drawing of Queen Elizabeth to her in 1952, just before she was crowned the queen of England. He describes it as a “wash” he did with a small brush in black ink. The queen sent it back, saying she could only accept gifts from those “with whom Her Majesty is personally acquainted.”
Monday, August 6
Daybook
Tuesday
Joanne Inez Ferris Mangels, 76
Darlene Ruth Lozeau Heaton, 78
Darlene Ruth Lozeau Heaton, 78, of Ronan, passed away in Polson Aug. 4, 2012.
Robert W. Sullivan, 74
Dorothy (Johnson) Anderson, 83
Whitefish Lake Golf Club hosts Montana/Alberta Cup
Four golfers from the Flathead Valley will compete today and Wednesday in the Montana/Alberta Cup at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Glacier falls in title game at Babe Ruth Regional
THE DALLES, Ore. — Glacier dropped a tough 9-8 decision to Twin Cities (Centralia, Wash.) on Monday in the championship game of the Babe Ruth Regional 14-year-old baseball tournament.
Taste of Kalispell
Lavonne Burgard works on a painting for the upcoming Taste of Kalispell Invitational Art Exhibition, which opens this Saturday, Aug. 11, at the Museum at Central School in Kalispell. More than 20 local artists were asked to create pieces for the show depicting contemporary Kalispell. Burgard chose yarn bombing at the Hockaday Museum of Art for her subject. Taste of Kalispell is Saturday from 5 to 10 p.m. The art work will remain on display in the main entrance hall of the Museum at Central School through Sept. 30.
County pulls C. Falls library earmark
The Flathead County commissioners on Monday unanimously voted to remove $1.9 million for a new Columbia Falls branch library from the county’s proposed five-year capital improvement plan.
Puddle plan emerges for Evergreen
A proposed project to resurface and improve stormwater drainage along two miles of U.S. 2 through Evergreen is out for public comment, the Montana Department of Transportation said Monday.
2 new fires detected on Flathead Forest
Two new fires were detected on the Flathead National Forest Monday, and both are being suppressed.
Hiker's family thanks searchers in statement
The parents of Jackson Kreiser, the hiker who has been missing in Glacier National Park since July 28, have issued a statement thanking searchers and supporters.
Obnoxious boater harasses family
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday from a man on Bitterroot Lake who said he and his family were being harassed by an obnoxious man on another boat.
Vann's appliance store files for bankruptcy
MISSOULA (AP) — Appliance and electronics retailer Vann’s Inc. has filed for bankruptcy to give it time to reorganize its finances.
Plevna train blast
Rail cars burn after derailment
Golf tournament will raise money for K9 Care of Montana
A Philipsburg-based nonprofit is turning to the Flathead Valley for support in its mission to provide service dogs to veterans.
Breastfeeding Coalition holds fair downtown
The purpose of the Flathead Valley Breastfeeding Coalition is not to convince people that breastfeeding is not inappropriate. It is, coalition member said, about making mothers aware of their legal rights.
90-year-old medals at Bloomsday
Lucille Hammer, 90, of Kalispell, got a surprise recently when she received a first-place medal from the annual Lilac Bloomsday Run held May 6 in Spokane.
90-year-old Bloomsday medalist
Lucille Hammer, 90, of Kalispell, proudly displays the medal she was awarded after taking first place in her age group at this year's Lilac Bloomsday Run in Spokane.
Mary Lou Celebrates Gabby Douglas's Gold
Montana2012
Sunday, August 5
A fix-up for Flathead
Businesses donate time, materials to facility needs
Local businesses are thinking outside the box when it comes to improvements for Flathead High School.
Search for hiker to be scaled down
Search and rescue teams working tough terrain in Glacier National Park reported Sunday that no new clues have been found in the search for missing hiker Jakson Kreiser.
Libby chaplain has command role in Middle East
At MacDill Air Force Base, in Tampa, Fla., a busy Libby native commands quite a bit of respect — and airmen.
Task force wants to change accreditation standards
Student achievement may play a larger role in state accreditation standards if the Montana Board of Public Education approves recent revisions suggested by a special task force.
Director builds bureau from ground up
Diane Medler spent her early childhood in Butte but moved around and eventually lived and worked in California, Washington, Colorado and even out on the East Coast.
Panhandlers argue over sign duty
Sunday afternoon, a caller reported seeing a tall guy yelling at a smaller guy on Hutton Ranch Road. The two men were panhandlers arguing over who was going to hold a sign. They were advised of city ordinances by the
Nadine Christie, 86
Nadine Christie, 86, passed away on Friday, Aug. 3, 2012, after a long illness. She was born on Sept. 19, 1923, to Carol and Meryl Landon in Saco, Mont.
William L. 'Bill' Reynolds, 58
William L. “Bill” Reynolds, 58, passed away in Kalispell on Aug. 3, 2012.
Tracey Lynn Prangley, 53
Tracey Lynn Prangley of Bigfork died suddenly at her home on Thursday, Aug. 2, 2012.
More prints of hiker found
Search teams have found more partial boot tracks believed to belong to missing hiker Jakson Kreiser in the Floral Park Area.
Advance tickets on sale for fair carnival
A limited number of discounted tickets for the 2012 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo’s carnival now are on sale at the CHS Convenience Store, 120 W. Idaho St. in Kalispell, and at the fair office.
'Epic' race draws kayakers to Flathead Lake
The 24-mile Epic Shore to Shore Race benefits First Descents, providing free outdoor adventure experiences for young adult cancer patients.
Bigfork man guilty of threatening trooper
A 21-year-old Bigfork man pleaded no contest and guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to charges of felony threats in official matters and misdemeanor driving under the influence.
Platinum thief given deferred sentence
A man who sole $172,000 in platinum from Applied Materials was given a six-year deferred sentence Thursday in Flathead District Court
Beekeepers relish remote locale for honey business
Not everyone can take Going-to-the-Sun Road to go get groceries or routinely post pictures of bears on their blog.
Patient packers: Outfitters rely on llamas for trips into the wilderness
Bridled, the llamas followed dutifully along on a day hike from Napa to Inspiration Point at the western edge of the vast Bob Marshall Wilderness.
'Truth and honesty' of editor's column needed
While reading the July 1st “2 cents” column, I could not believe that Managing Editor Frank Miele had changed from being a longtime “blind” liberal to an “enlightened” conservative in such a few short years. We should all drop to our knees at least twice a day to thank God for Frank’s precious writing skills that enlighten the reader.
A countervailing view of 9/11 from a neo-liberal
Recently, I trekked northward from Utah to visit friends, enjoy Big Sky country, and to see some glaciers before they’re all gone. Accelerated global warming due to burning fossil fuels? Nah! Ridiculous!
If it isn't abortion, then why isn't there a baby anymore?
Ms. Kay Ohana, in a previous letter, made the statement that the “morning after” pill does not cause an abortion. Really? Fact: “It prevents a FERTILIZED egg from attaching to the uterine wall because the high doses of the drug makes the uterus a hostile environment.” Conception, life, has already taken place. The child (not a frog or a peanut), dies as a result when it is ABORTED because it has no acceptable place to attach to continue to grow.
A bill that transcends politics
It’s an election year, and both sides in the highly charged Senate race in Montana are trying to make political hay out of anything that might win a vote or two.
Daybook
Saturday, August 4
Shrine Game a Harris tradition
The annual Montana East-West Shrine Game celebrated an important milestone last month in Great Falls.
Surgery tower moves to homestretch
In its race to meet future health-care needs, Kalispell Regional Medical Center entered the home stretch this month with its new $42 million surgical tower on schedule to be completed in February 2013.
Drunken man lies down on road
The
Sara Ann Nichols, 70
Sara was born in Detroit on Dec. 19, 1941, and passed away in Kalispell on Aug. 1, 2012, surrounded by her four beautiful daughters and loving husband.
A miracle drug for what ails us? Maybe, maybe not...
I’m not sure why people insist on thinking that our current political environment is the worst ever, but it isn’t.
'Fill Your Honey Pot' event planned at Babb business
Glacier County Honey Co. will host its first “Fill Your Own Honey Pot Day” on Saturday, Aug. 11, at 71 West Shore Road near Babb on the outskirts of Glacier National Park.
Antique and Classic Boat Show
Mason Niblack of Blackwood Brokerage Marine Surveying in Polson polishes a Classic Century Arabian at the Antique and Classic Boat Show on Saturday, August 4, in Lakeside.
Epic Shore to Shore Race
Mike Lesnick, left, and John Schuke take off from the Lutheran Bible Camp check point during the Epic Shore to Shore Race on Saturday, August 4, south of Lakeside.
Fix the Flathead
Jeremy Harmon, of Western Building Supply, center, and James Randall, of Hammerquist Casalegno Inc., work on replacing the doors in the Flathead High School gymnasium on Saturday, Aug. 4. In the back ground are Tom Kern, left, of Western Building Supply, and Kirk Hammerquist.
Fixing the Flathead
From left, Jeremy Peterson of JRP Construction, Tim Schuldheisss of School District 5, Dan Ruud of Kalmont Distributors and Gavin Ruud, who will be a junior next fall at Flathead work on replacing the doors to the gymnasium at Flathead High School on Saturday, August 4, in Kalispell.
Storm shatters tree, sinks sailboat
Birds oddly attracted to lightning-struck roof
A swift storm swept through Flathead County on Thursday night, knocking out power to thousands, knocking over a sailboat on Whitefish Lake and reducing one tree to splinters.
Teacher ready to spread word about space
NASA course gives Smith Valley educator access to lunar samples
Although NASA shuttles are grounded, Smith Valley School teacher Melissa Martin has learned firsthand that the space exploration program still has nowhere to go but up.
First class
Flathead Valley Community College will honor its first class of registered nursing graduates during a pinning ceremony at 4 p.m. Aug. 10. Pictured front row, from left, are Angela Nyberg, Krista Andrews, Joanna Crawford, Heidi Marcum and Kathleen Mayer. Back row: Stacie Pugh, Lara McDonnell, Christine Reid, Kat Lembrich and Liisa Lommatsch. The ceremony will be in the large community meeting room of the Arts and Technology Building. Graduates will be individually recognized for their accomplishments and share their personal and journeys to becoming registered nurses. A reception will follow the ceremony. For more information, contact Cathy Fabel at 756-3385 or cfabel@fvcc.edu.
Daybook
Friday, August 3
Hiking the Highline
Lightning-struck tree
Lightning struck this tree across the street from Tanya Sheldon’s home on River Lakes Drive Thursday.
Steep cliffs, thick brush challenge searchers
An aerial photo showing the cathedral-like cliffs that dominate the area where searchers are looking for missing hiker Jakson Kreiser says a lot about the difficulty of the search.
Boat a storm casualty in Whitefish
The
David 'Dale' Purdy, 88
David “Dale” Purdy, 88, of Eureka, passed away of natural causes Tuesday, July 31, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Evergreen Fire: Harmony Road
Evergreen firefighters James Boyce, left, and Jared Pitcher put their masks on and prepare to enter a studio apartment fire on Harmony Road in Evergreen on Friday afternoon, August 3. No one was injured in the fire, but two dogs died probably due to smoke inhalation.
Kalispell Regional Medical Center: Construction Update
Jayne Wangerin leads a tour through the new surgery tower on Wednesday, August 1, at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rainbow over Rebecca
A rainbow lights up the sky over Rebecca Farm from West Valley Road on Thursday evening, August 2, west of Kalispell.
Woman bequeaths $198,000 to library
Longtime summer resident Harriet Glanville left the Whitefish Community Library a bequest of $198,000 upon her death on Jan. 1.
Woman denies charge in crash rollover
A 33-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a charge of negligent homicide.
'Made in U.S.A.' bill proposed
State offering foreclosure help
Montana Attorney General Steve Bullock has announced a new mortgage foreclosure prevention program funded with the state’s share of a multibillion-dollar settlement with large lenders.
Lion that frightened campers shot
Wilderness fire activity slows down
While activity on several fires in and around the Bob Marshall Wilderness has slowed over the last couple of days, one fire has showed signs of life.
The Olympic spirit abounds
The Olympics this year already are delivering plenty of drama — and the games are only in their first week.
Man pleads innocent to shooting charge
A 46-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to allegations that he shot at and injured his 23-year-old son.
Thursday, August 2
AA State Legion baseball: Scarlets sink Twins
WHITEFISH — After giving up seven runs to the Billings Scarlets in the fourth inning of their loser-out game on Thursday at the Montana-Alberta Class AA state baseball tournament, the Glacier Twins had every reason to pack it in. The Twins had lost every game in the last two months and had seen plenty of innings like this.
Five KATS win events at Long Course State Championship
The KATS swim team had five individuals win titles at the Montana Long Course State Championship July 27-29 in Bozeman.
Glacier dawn
Early morning light shines through light fog as seen from Going-to-the-Sun Road Wednesday morning in Glacier National Park.
Economic picture brightens
The basic message at Thursday’s Midyear Update to the Economic Outlook seminar held in Kalispell: Things are at least looking better in Montana.
Kenai River Bear Cub Rescue
Accounts of underage encounter vary
The
Leonard A. Cobler, 65
Leonard A. Cobler, 65, of Kalispell, died July 22, 2012, at his home, surrounded by friends and family.
Robert R. Martin, 77
Daybook
Barbara B. Hansen, 89
Timothy Andrew Veyna, 53
Timothy Andrew Veyna, 53, died in Libby on Feb. 29, 2012, of natural causes.
Class AA Baseball
After a force out at second, Glacier Twins' Bryce Wehrli (10) looks on as the Billings Scarlets complete a double play Thursday afternoon during the Twins' loss in the Class AA State Tournament at Memorial Field.
DIL Full page reprint
FVCC Nursing Building Contruction
John Lowe, a carpenter with Swank Enterprises, works on the metal framing of the new Rebecca Chaney Broussard Center for Nursing and Health Science at Flathead Valley Community College on Thursday morning, August 2, in Kalispell. The ground breaking for the new building was in late May.
Olympic Badminton Scandal
K9 Care Tourney
David Riggs, CEO of K9 Care of Montana, is pictured with his dog, Rocky, Aug. 1 in Columbia Falls.
Monday Profile
Diane Medler, director of the Kalispell Convention and Visitors Bureau, discusses plans for upcoming events in the Flathead on Tuesday morning in Depot Park.
Trails funding application period opens
Groups in Flathead County considering seeking grant money to build pedestrian and bicycle trails now can obtain information for this year’s funding cycle on the county’s website.
Woman sentenced for stealing from shop
A 51-year-old Columbia Falls woman was given a six-year deferred sentence Tuesday in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to felony embezzlement.
Cities catch up on late financial reports
Better late than never, the saying goes. And Columbia Falls plans to release its fiscal year 2011 annual report soon.
Part of the true Wild Bunch
Montana is all about natural resources, so it is only right to recognize two of the state’s best known officials who have worked for years to keep the wild in our wildlands.
Library board certified
The Flathead County Library System board of trustees recently became the first library board in the state with every member certified through the Montana Certification Program for Library Directors, Staff and Trustees.
Man sentenced for 5th DUI
A 48-year-old Columbia Falls man was sentenced July 26 to 10 years in jail for his fifth conviction of driving under the influence as well as violating his probation on two prior convictions.
Petition language finalized on airport question
The clock is now ticking.
New fires flare up
The Elbow Pass Fire Complex has grown to about 8,000 acres, prompting an evacuation order for the Benchmark Road corridor east of Augusta, and some other new fires have been detected in and around the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Across the Bob in a single day
Kalispell man runs north to south in 75-mile, 15-hour expedition
Ben Laster of Kalispell decided to go for a run Tuesday — a really big run — across the Bob Marshall Wilderness from north to south.
Wednesday, August 1
Errors cost Twins in State AA opener
WHITEFISH — Four errors, seven walks and four hit batters were too much for the Glacier Twins to overcome in a 14-2 loss to the Billings Royals in the first round of the Montana-Alberta Class AA American Legion state baseball tournament at Memorial Field in Whitefish Wednesday.
Man thinks pair was trying to intimidate him
The
Search has similarities to 2008 hiking incident
In the ongoing search for missing hiker Jakson Kreiser, there are eerie similarities to a search for another man four years ago.
Class AA Baseball
Glacier Twins short stop Carl Talsma (8) mishandles a throw to second base on Billings Royals' Joseph Zimmer's steal from first Wednesday evening during the Class AA State Tournament at Memorial Field. Wednesday, Aug. 1, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Search enters fifth day
Limited clues were identified Tuesday in the continuing search for missing hiker Jakson Kreiser in Glacier National Park.
Long Road Home
U.S. Air Force veteran Steve Taylor, right, rides a hand bike up Going-to-the-Sun Road early Wednesday morning in Glacier National Park. Taylor is one of five veterans riding across the country as part of the Long Road Home Project. Nelson Barker, left, rode along with Taylor for support. The group left Wednesday from Hungry Horse and rode over Logan Pass to St. Mary.
Bob Marshall runner
Ben Laster on Kalispell traversed the Bob Marshall Wilderness with a 75-mile run in one day. He is pictured here in May 2011 running with his three dogs — Penny, Daisy-Nay, and Chowdie — along Woodland Avenue in Kalispell.
'Hedwig and the Angry Inch' comes to Whitefish
Alpine Theatre Project will close its 2012 summer season with its most daring and outrageous production to date when it presents the cult-hit rock musical “Hedwig and the Angry Inch.”
3 artists on exhibit at Bigfork museum
Darrell Gray, Lael Gray and Julie Wulf will show their recent works in a new show, “Metal, Silk, Canvas and Beyond,” at the Bigfork Museum of Art and History.
Apgar Village hosts Celtic duo
The Montana House, in Glacier National Park’s Apgar Village, will ring with Celtic music Aug. 17 and 18.
'Splash in' combines aircraft, concerts
The umpteenth annual Stillwater Landing “splash in” takes place Friday through Sunday at Stillwater Landing.
Big talent is Bigfork bound
Guitar festival includes workshops, concerts
Tickets are now on sale for the six public concerts that will be held during the week-long Crown of the Continent Guitar Workshop.
Patricia May Shaffer, 93
Festival Amadeus is a week-long music celebration
Festival Amadeus, the week-long classical music festival hosted by Glacier Symphony and Chorale, took place in Whitefish July 22-28.
U.S.A. vs China at Olympics
Daybook
Prisoner Lake Fire map
This map shows trail closures and the area covered by the Prisoner Lake Fire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Prisoner Lake Fire
The Prisoner Lake fire burns on Monday, a day when it grew 3,000 acres. The fire is 25 miles east of Condon in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Cyclist hurt in U.S. 2 crash
A man was transported to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center in critical condition after he crashed his motorcycle into another vehicle in Evergreen Monday evening.
This Week in the Flathead: Festival Amadeus
Festival Amadeus began on Sunday, July 22, with a free open air concert in Depot Park in Whitefish. The concert featured a performing by Tim Fain.
Brothers sentenced for theft, forgery spree
Two Kalispell brothers were sentenced July 26 in Flathead District Court on convictions for felony forgery and misdemeanor theft.
Maintaining Kalispell's urban forest a constant challenge
From dealing with wind damage to Dutch elm disease, regular pruning needs and backed-up requests for new tree plantings, Kalispell’s “urban forest” has been keeping the city’s Parks and Recreation Department busy.
Tribes to pay half of $150 million to members
Chamber poll finds brighter business outlook
A survey by the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce found what appears to be a decent business climate this summer.
Kitchen, school tours scheduled ahead of bond vote
In hopes of gaining approval of a $3.35 million bond request, Kalispell Public Schools is hosting special events for people to see why upgrades are proposed.
