Ellington

Margaret Elizabeth Morgan 'Peggy' O'Leary, 51

Daybook

New judges take oaths of office

Retiring Flathead District Judge Kitty Curtis’ words of wisdom for two incoming district judges were succinct: Don’t be afraid to ask for advice.

Special Friends provides support network

 Bev Smart found new friends, self-confidence and a supportive community through the Special Friends Advocacy Program and People First, a local program for people with disabilities.

Medical staff rallies to save 'miracle' mom, baby

Saving Grace

Light pole no match for drunken driver

Act fast for choice senior classes

FVCC Senior Institute

Shirley Maxine Bell Bruner, 82

Heidi Ulbricht

Brad Wright helps his wife, Heidi Ulbricht, into her new robe during her swearing-in ceremony Monday morning at the Flathead County Justice Center. Ulbricht succeeds Stewart Stadler as Flathead District Court judge.  

Robert Allison

U.S. District Court Judge Dana Christensen, left, introduces Flathead County District Court Judge Robert Allison after his swearing-in ceremony Monday morning at the Flathead County Justice Center. 

Judges

From left, Judges Ted Lympus, Kitty Curtis, Stewart Stadler, David Ortley, Heidi Ulbricht, Dana Christiansen and Robert Allison pose Monday morning at the Flathead County Justice Center.  

Gary Krueger

Judge Ted Lympus, left, swears in Gary Krueger as Flathead County commissioner Monday morning at the Flathead County Justice Center.  

First Night Flathead

Natalie Greene, 3, tries to hula hoop Monday afternoon at the Kalispell Center Mall during the 14th annual First Night Flathead. Several family-friendly activities including face painting, pony rides and bracelet making were at the mall Monday afternoon. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Triplets

Katie Cook in her hospital bed Friday afternoon at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Good things come in threes

Birth of triplets rare occurrence at Kalispell Regional

In the nick of time on Thursday, Graham and Katie Cook of Eureka scored three more 2012 tax deductions with the birth of fraternal triplets Prym, Kara and Lioni.

Shorter winters may hurt ski towns

A new study on climate change provides a bleak outlook for U.S. towns that rely on winter tourism.

Local legislators would support bill allowing guns in schools

'Allow a teacher to be armed'

Two local lawmakers say they support allowing teachers and school administrators to be armed in light of the Dec. 14 massacre at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut.

Woman tiring of wormy cat

Sunday morning, a Merganser Drive woman told

New officials take oaths on Monday

Two swearing-in ceremonies for incoming county and judicial officials are planned Monday.

Boy arrested after stabbing incident

Gloria Reardon Mills, 80, and Patrick Clint Mills, 82

Gloria Reardon Mills, 80, of Eureka, died Oct. 29, 2012, at St. Mary's Assisted Living in Eureka, with husband, Clint, and loving caregivers by her side.

Tom Sullivan has been with chain more than four decades

The end of the world as she’s known it was not Dec. 21, 2012, for Rosauers deli manager Candy Griffin.

First Night volunteers needed

If you are looking for a way to help the community and have fun on New Year’s Eve, First Night Flathead could use your help.

Glenn Thomas Lietz, 64

It is with great sadness that the family of Glenn Thomas Lietz of Martin City announces his passing at the age of 64 years.

Pearl 'Irene' Leighty Broad, 84

Pearl “Irene” Leighty Broad, 84, passed away on Dec. 27, 2012, after a valiant battle with cancer.

Bertha Christine McCahan, 99

Bertha Christine McCahan, 99, of Kalispell, passed away Wednesday, Dec. 26, 2012, at Immanuel Lutheran Home.

From the left: GOP should disown Tea Party

Every op-ed I have written for this paper has been intended for the independent-minded centrists among us who may tack fluidly left or right, politically speaking, as their judgment guides them.

Daybook

Spencer Lake timber sale approved

The Montana Land Board has unanimously approved a timber sale for the Spencer Lake area.

After the shooting - Don't take away guns; give more hope

The current travesty of the massacre in Connecticut causes me to resurrect an opinion I first aired several years ago. I’m afraid our country is going to over-react in a fit of rage because this tragedy happened. I would like to state that this is a classic situation of “one size does not fit all.”

Patty Shelton, 72

Patty Shelton, 72, died Friday, Dec. 21, 2012 , in Mesa, Ariz.

Losing Mom, one memory at a time

 Memory loss is an insidious thing. It works quietly and stealthily, chipping away the most benign thoughts at first. And when that’s no longer enough, it commandeers whole thought processes and memories you’d swear were so deeply embedded they were untouchable.

Hospital opens Ronald McDonald room

Kalispell Regional Medical Center will open a Ronald McDonald House Charities room in January.

Hugs for Hope

Prayer Shawl Ministry group members surround the table while retired pastor Tim Gopp reads a prayer Friday afternoon while blessing several scarves made during the “Hugs For Hope Stitch Out” at Bethany Lutheran Church in Bigfork. The Prayer Shawl Ministry group came together to make close to 50 scarves in the last week in tribute to the victims of the Connecticut school massacre. The scarves with be distributed to The Samaritan House, Veterans Food Pantry and various other organizations throughout the community.

2013: A year to be wished for

In a couple of days, the calendar turns to another year (not a year of doom as Mayan misinterpreters alleged) and our thoughts turn to what that new year might bring.

Court gives class-action status to erosion case

Litigation that has been under way since 1999 over property damage caused by Kerr Dam may proceed as a class action under a Thursday ruling from the Montana Supreme Court.

Guns are dangerous, but people are more so

I don’t know anything about guns. I have no fascination with them, and no particular interest in them.

Exploring the pathways of the brain

Analyst on the cutting edge of unique imaging

Carinna Torgerson, a Laboratory of Neuro Imaging programmer analyst, can take data from a brain and translate it into dense areas of nerve fibers assigned a psychedelic array of colors to distinguish pathway directions.

Pilot had student license

Carl J. Douglas, the 54-year-old CEO of Stinger Welding who was killed in a plane crash Dec. 19, may not have been certified to pilot the aircraft that night.

Cuts would hit home for park, fish hatchery

Most, if not all, federal agencies will feel some pain at the local level if nothing is done to head off the impending fiscal cliff, with tax increases and automatic spending cuts kicking in at the beginning of the new year.

Daybook

Reckless driver smashes into pole

Gloria Reardon Mills, 80, and Patrick Clint Mills, 82

Geraldine 'Gerry' Sihrer, 82

Geraldine “Gerry” Sihrer, 82, passed away on Monday, Dec. 24, 2012, at her home in Evergreen.

Patty Shelton, 72

Kalispell man gets suspended sentence for sex assault

A 55-year-old Kalispell man was given a 10-year suspended sentence Thursday in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to felony sexual assault.

Glenn Thomas Lietz, 64

Bertha Christine McCahan, 99

Fire causes $200,000 in damage

A burning truck caused an estimated $200,000 damage Thursday night in Kalispell.

Kalispell prosecutor moves up to judge position

After a nearly 10-year career with the Flathead County Attorney’s Office, Deputy County Attorney Lori Adams is ready to start a new chapter in her judicial career — as judge in Kalispell Municipal Court.

West Garceau Fire

This 10-second exposure shows the red glow of the West Garceau Fire burning Aug. 14. The fire eventually covered 9.863 acres in the Irvine Flats area west of Polson. Across Montana, 2012 was the worst fire season since 1910, with more than 1.3 million acres burned and 463 homes and structures destroyed.

Senate debate

Sen. Jon Tester, right, speaks during a debate with Rep. Denny Rehberg on Oct. 8 in Billings. Tester won re-election in a hotly contested race.

Cook Triplets

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Graham Cook looks over his new-born triplets Friday afternoon at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Ort Miracle Baby

Kara Ort, 8, holds her new sister Grace Joy while their mother Emmy holds the baby's feet Thursday afternoon at the Orts' home south of Kalispell.

Hugs for Hope Stitch Out

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Syble Sanders, left, knits a scarf Friday afternoon during the "Hugs For Hope Stitch Out" at Bethany Lutheran Church in Bigfork. The Prayer Shawl Ministry group came together to make close to 50 scarves in the last week in tribute to the victims of Sandy Hook. The scarves with be distributed to The Samaritan House, Veterans Pantry and various other organizations throughout the Flathead community. Friday, Dec. 28, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.

Fire at Northwest Drywall

Firefighters from Kalispell, Evergreen and Whitefish respond to a call out for a structure fire at Northwest Drywall on Thursday evening near 11 p.m. in Kalispell. The fire was under control by midnight. Members of the Kalispell Police and the Flathead County Sheriff's Department were also on site.

First Night a worthy tradition

The fun will be almost nonstop on Monday night.

Lauman ready for second retirement

Commissioner ends 6-year term

Dale Lauman has the kind of amicable demeanor that puts people at ease. He’s thoughtful, inquisitive and doesn’t rile easily.

Daybook

Firm donates to food banks

For the fourth year in a row, donations by Plum Creek Timber Co. will help local food banks meet needs during the holiday season.

Skier unhurt after triggering avalanche on

A skier triggered an avalanche Christmas Day in Jewel Basin, but he managed to survive after being buried waist-deep in snow from the slide.

287-unit addition proposed for mini-storage complex

A proposed expansion of a mini-storage complex on Lower Valley Road will be considered by the Flathead Board of Adjustment on Jan. 8.

Clinic, fitness facility studied for Col. Falls

A joint venture among North Valley Hospital, The Wave and School District 6 could bring a new medical clinic and fitness facility to Columbia Falls.

Rural dog owner unhappy with law

Boy Scout gives senator a good 'talking to' about federal budget

To the Hon. Max Baucus, United States Senate:

Roy George Lucas, 73

Roy George Lucas peacefully left this world on Friday, Dec. 21, 2012, of natural causes.

TomSullivan

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Tom Sullivan is retiring as manager of Rosauers in Kalispell. Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Birds of Lower Valley

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A ring-necked pheasant rooster looks for food in a field Thursday afternoon near Farm Road south of Kalispell. Thursday, Dec. 27, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Monday Profile

Bob Lopp poses for a portrait Thursday morning at the Owen-Sowerine Trail. 

Torchlight Christmas parade on Big Mountain

Florence E. Armstrong, 96

Miles Randall Tuck

Miles Randall Tuck, son of Justin and Callie Tuck of Kalispell, was born Dec. 6 at North Valley Hospital.

Robot

Drs. Robert Rogers and Richard Taylor pose with the da Vinci surgical robot.

Judge Stadler

Stewart Stadler is retiring after a 28-year career as a judge.

Judge Stadler concludes years on the bench

Varied career eventually led to law

Stewart Stadler did a lot of things before he settled into a career in the judicial system that would span some 28 years.

Stay in touch with legislators

The Montana Legislature has, over time, become progressively more accessible, more user-friendly for constituents and it appears that trend is continuing with the development of a smart-phone application that will provide an interactive legislative guide.

Daybook

Whitefish library creates endowment fund from bequest

The Whitefish Community Library has created an endowment fund using $100,000 from a bequest left to the library in August by longtime Whitefish summer resident Harriet Glanville.

Electronic recycling

Recycling supervisor Randy Augusta sorts through a box containing various electronic parts on Wednesday at Pacific Steel and Recycling in Evergreen.

Electronics recycling offered in Evergreen

Have an old cellphone, printer, DVD player or computer to get rid of after Christmas?

Jenny Lou Siderius, 77

Our wife, mother and friend, Jenny Lou Siderius, “joined her savior Jesus Christ in heaven” on Christmas Eve, 2012.

Leo James Hezekiah Bennett

Leo James Hezekiah Bennett, son of Christopher and Kaitlyn Bennett of Kalispell, was born Dec. 4 at North Valley Hospital.

Kathryn I. Lange, 95

Kathryn I. Lange, 95, passed away Dec. 15, 2012, in Kalispell.

Facebook 'joke' was an explosive threat

An explosive Facebook “joke” led to a

Kalispell hospital adds second da Vinci surgical robot

Gynecological surgeon Dr. Richard Taylor describes operating with the da Vinci surgery robot as “like walking around inside the patient with a magnifying glass.”

Local dancers part of Kennedy Center show

Fleet feet

Jazz night a fundraiser for Abbie Shelter

Young actors sought for 'Wax Museum'

Bigfork venue open to students for a week

Theater group wins arts grant

Audition for 'Elephant's Graveyard'

Flathead High puts on experimental theater

Book clubs plan January meetings

Feat x Feet dancers

Perrey Sobba, left, Bridget Unterreiner, professional dancer Aaron Tolson and Marlow Schulz dance together. The three girls, all dancers with Feat x Feet, were chosen to perform in a tap show at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Several options valleywide for New Year's revelers

First Night Flathead offers family-friendly fun

WTC 'Elephant's Graveyard'

Auditions are Jan. 7 for Whitefish Theatre Company's production of "Elephant's Graveyard."

What it is Like to Go to War

The Flathead County Library Book Club will discuss Karle Marlantes' "What it is Like to Go to War" Jan. 8.

Frontier Soldier

The Montana History Book Club will discuss "Frontier Soldier: An Enlisted Man's Journal of the Sioux and Nez Perce Campaigns" Jan. 10.

Caleb's Crossing

The Flathead Valley Community College Reading Group will discuss "Caleb's Crossing" by Geraldine Brooks at is Jan. 23 meeting.

The Book Thief

The Bad Rock Book Discussion Group will talk about Markus Zusak's "The Book Thief" at its meeting Jan. 10.

DJ Poet

DJ Poet is headlining a New Year's Eve party at Casey's Bar in Whitefish.

First Night Flathead

First Night Flathead offers family-friendly fun at several venues in downtown Kalispell Dec. 31.

Flathead Deals

Beau Hill Profile

Beau Hill with one of his horses on Thursday, December 20, at his home in Columbia Heights.

Esther Marie Boreson, 91

Pacific Offers Electronic Recycling

A box sits half filled with various electronic parts on Wednesday, December 26, at Pacific Steel and Recycling in Kalispell. According to Recycling Supervisor Randy Augusta it takes only one to two weeks to collect enough electronic pieces to send out a 2,000 pound load.

Week in Pictures: December 17-23

12-24-12 Santa Ski Day

A Week of Powder - December 2012 - Big Sky Resort, Montana

Bynum Ice Fishing and the Mystery Fish...

Rosters set for East-West Shrine Game

Future farm academy will include autistic children

The seed for Sherry Lewis-Peterson’s farm-based school has been germinating for quite a while.

Judge closes 18-year career on bench

Flathead District Court is losing an 18-year veteran and its first female judge at the end of the year when Judge Kitty Curtis steps away from the bench.

Emma Rae Hull

Emma Rae Hull, daughter of David Hull Jr. and Miranda Hull of Eureka, was born Dec. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

Kwynn Jane Miller

Kwynn Jane Miller, daughter of Kavin Miller and Kayla Stinger of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Ruth Tangmo Nash, 93

Daybook

Lois Jean (Gardener) Marsh, 83

Betty Jane Bryant, 87

Woman faces her fourth DUI charge

A 29-year-old Bigfork woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be her fourth offense of driving under the influence.

Man challenges fourth DUI charge

 A 44-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be his fourth offense of driving under the influence.

Heating mishap causes home disaster

Linda Smith of Kalispell loves her aromatherapy velour wheat hot packs.

Couple celebrates miracle baby's first Christmas

Snow conditions 'phenomenal' at Blacktail

Hay theft reported near C. Falls

Blacktail

Skiers head down the slopes of Blacktail on Monday, December 24, in Lakeside.

Micah 360 Fail

Fishing 12.22.12.wmv

Christmas Light Display

Gwendolyn Rogers has an impressive display of Christmas lights and inflatable decor at her home on South Woodland Drive in Kalispell. 

Christmas in the air

Gwendolyn Rogers has an impressive display of Christmas lights and inflatable decor at her home on South Woodland Drive in Kalispell.

Men possibly had painting in mind

Early Sunday morning, two men were cited and released by

Bell ringer honored to be part of kettle drive

Service with a smile

Bette Silvert is a common sight outside Kalispell stores in December.

County aims to snag road money

Highway Program

Flathead County plans to vie for money from a restructured federal highway program to make improvements to Blacktail and North Fork roads.

Emergency vehicles ask for courtesy from local drivers

Move over, slow down when you see flashing lights

The holidays are well-known for drunk driving crackdowns. 

Girls basketball roundup: Wildkats roll over Loggers

COLUMBIA FALLS — Columbia Falls (5-1 overall, 2-0 league) rode the early scoring of Hope Burlage to a 65-28 Northwestern A girls basketball victory over Libby on Saturday.

Coeur d'Alene tips Glacier

COEUR d’ALENE, Idaho — Many of the fans may have come to get a glimpse of the 7-footer who has signed with Gonzaga.

Boys basketball roundup: C-Falls holds off Libby

COLUMBIA FALLS — Alex Presnell hit two free throws with 20 seconds left to ice a 47-42 victory for Columbia Falls in a tight boys basketball Northwestern A contest with Libby on Saturday.

Fairgrounds use on upward spiral

Master plan should be done next year

Usage of the Flathead County fairgrounds is at an all-time high, according to a year-end report compiled by Fairgrounds Manager Mark Campbell.

New app gives guide to Montana Legislature

A new iPhone, iPad and Android app to be released Jan. 1 will help Montanans more easily and quickly connect with members of the 63rd Montana Legislature.

Hold on to Christmas spirit

If it’s been a little more difficult this year to embrace the Christmas spirit, you’re not alone.

In the spotlight

Students shine in school Christmas plays.

The everlasting (?) tension between faith and filth

There is, as you may know, an atheist named Vik in California who thinks that Christmas is just a fairy tale for kids, a fable like Santa Claus and Rudolf. He’s been scorning the story for years, setting up atheistic displays alongside the famous Santa Monica manger, and the city fathers are so intimidated this year that they cancelled Christmas (well, the manger anyway).

Cora Ealish Weyh

Cora Ealish Weyh, daughter of Jeff and Leslie Weyh of Whitefish, was born Nov. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

Zoe Marie Vierzba

Zoe Marie Vierzba, daughter of Jessica Vierzba of Kalispell, was born Nov. 16 at North Valley Hospital.

Tea Party script filled with errors

Although President Obama has twice been elected by large electoral and popular margins, some cannot seem to come to terms with the reality that he is America’s choice for president.

End of the world parties pump up the volume

The

Republicans want to make life better for 'Bob Cratchit'

In his Daily Inter Lake opinion letter published on Dec. 9, David James tried to make a case that Republicans fit the role of the fictional character of Scrooge in the Charles Dickens classic, “A Christmas Carol.” Mr. James describes a fictional world populated by evil business owners and Republicans hell-bent to destroy the middle class of America with the only salvation coming from a Marxist army of labor unions.

Zoey Lamae Arensmeyer

Zoey Lamae Arensmeyer, daughter of Marc Arensmeyer and Andrea Bancroft of Martin City, was born Dec. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Resort banks on friendliness: Lodging bookings up 14 percent

Dan Graves, president of Whitefish Mountain Resort, gets a lot of good business feedback while talking to people on the lifts, with Canadian skiers especially providing important insight.

Daybook

Subdivision with water features planned north of Kalispell

From winter wheat to water-skiing

A subdivision featuring two man-made lakes for water-skiing is proposed on 154 acres of farmland north of Rose Crossing.

Whitefish school plans scaled back

Labs, equipment put on hold so high school project can meet budget

After the estimated cost of rebuilding Whitefish High School was projected to come in $1.3 million over budget, the design team has found a way to keep the rebuild within the $19 million budget.

Engineer gives manufacturers tools to succeed

No matter what an entrepreneur is manufacturing, the process can always benefit from what Bill Nicholson calls the “grandma’s cookie recipe” principle.

Hellroaring Saloon gets new lease on life

Though half a decade ago plans were in place to move Hellroaring Saloon to a new location, a series of changes plus public outcry against its disappearance have led to a scenario in which the Whitefish Mountain Resort fixture can stay in place for at least the next 35 years.

Nina Isabel Kincheloe

Nina Isabel Kincheloe, daughter of Adam and Tracey Kincheloe of Whitefish, was born Nov. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Erica Gayle Kelly

Erica Gayle Kelly, daughter of Lucas and Jolene Kelly, was born Nov. 19 at North Valley Hospital.

Avery Powers

Avery Powers, son of Ashley Powers of Kalispell, was born Nov. 14 at North Valley Hospital.

Brynlee Charlotte Keele

Brynlee Charlotte Keele, daughter of Kent and Martha Keele, was born Nov. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

Memphis Timothy Witten

Memphis Timothy Witten, son of Casey and Kristy Witten of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 16 at North Valley Hospital.

Harlen Jaxson Denison

Harlen Jaxson Denison, son of Philip and Krista Denison, was born Nov. 4 at North Valley Hospital.

Rowan Katherine Moss

Rowan Katherine Moss, daughter of Shane and Gillian Moss of Whitefish, was born Nov. 26 at North Valley Hospital.

Jay Lee Michael Fuller

Jay Lee Michael Fuller, son of Jason and Teresa Fuller of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

County Commissioner Dale Lauman

Dale Lauman is shown here at the historic Flathead County Courthouse, which underwent a $2.7 million renovation during his tenure as a Flathead County commissioner. Lauman retires at the end of the month.

Columbia Falls vs. Libby Basketball

Columbia Falls guard Ty Morgan (30) goes up for a layup as Libby guard Jared Winslow (24) defends during Saturday’s Northwestern A contest at Columbia Falls. 

The Internet and the end of the world (as we knew it)

It’s no secret that the world didn’t end Friday, but what’s less easily discerned is that the world we used to know DID end, not on Friday, but relatively recently — let’s say sometime in the last decade.

Olaf G. Borge, 92

Pastor Olaf G. Borge, 92, of Great Falls, a retired Lutheran pastor, died on Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012, of natural causes at a care facility in Great Falls.

Wayne William Butts, 74

We were extremely saddened to learn that Wayne William Butts passed away in St. George, Utah, on Nov. 19, 2012. His wife Shirley was at his side.

Leora Josephine (Norton) Siems, 91

Leora Josephine (Norton) Siems, 91, passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012, in Kalispell.

Leora Josephine (Norton) Siems, 91

New boys, girls soccer coaches at Flathead

Flathead High School activities director Bryce Wilson announced on Friday that the school has hired new boys and girls varsity soccer coaches.

AA wrestling poll: Mitchell, Barber, Egley ranked second

Glacier’s Kaleb Mitchell, 140 pounds, and Jackson Barber, 160, and Flathead’s Jake Egley, 171, each rank second in their weight classes in the latest Class AA wrestling coaches poll released Friday.

Four Eureka wrestlers ranked in B-C poll

The Eureka wrestling team is ranked ninth in the latest Class B-C wrestling poll.

Great Falls beats Nationals, 10-2

GREAT FALLS — Not much went right for the Glacier Nationals on Friday.

Boys basketball roundup: Whitefish boys outlast Vikings

BIGFORK — The Whitefish boys took down Bigfork 60-54 in overtime of a nonconference basketball game Friday.

Girls basketball roundup: Bigfork bashes Bulldogs

BIGFORK — The Bigfork girls went on a 19-0 run in the second half to blow away Whitefish 43-26 on Friday night.

Daybook

Pilot had flown to Libby 'hundreds of times'

Boy sentenced to Pine Hills

After going on a four-month crime spree and escaping from juvenile detention, James Smith of Hungry Horse is headed to the Pine Hills Youth Correctional Facility.

Hostile woman not a fan of New Yorkers

A man visiting from New York called the

Kalispell adopts railroad corridor plan

After two years of aggressive outreach, Kalispell has an official dream for its railroad corridor: The Core Area Revitalization Plan.

Carl Douglas

Sheriff stresses gun safety

In the wake of last week’s Connecticut school shooting, Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry is reminding people about gun safety.

Jobless rate hits 9 percent

Flathead County’s unemployment rate continued an upward climb in November while the statewide jobless rate improved.

Libby plane crash

The wreckage of a Beechcraft King Air was hard to discern in the snow on Swede Mountain near Libby. Two people — Carl Douglas, CEO of Stinger Welding, and his employee, John Smith — died in the crash.

Senior centers considered for block grants

Aging senior center facilities were one main topic Tuesday when Kalispell held a public needs assessment hearing to identify potential Community Development Block Grant applications for next year.

Libby woman, 67, dies of accident injuries

A 67-year-old Libby woman has died from injuries she suffered Thursday afternoon in a head-on accident on U.S. 2 just west of Libby.

Olaf G. Borge, 92

Whitefish teachers reject contract

Whitefish School District teacher contract negotiations are at a stalemate.

Bigfork vs. Whitefish Basketball

Bigfork sophomore Riley Coleman (14) is pressured by a Whitefish defender during their game on Friday night, December 21, in Bigfork. The Vikings won the game 43 to 26.

Teresa Duddy Cottrell, 67

Monday Profile

Bette Silvert rings a bell for donations to the annual Salvation Army Christmas kettle drive Thursday at Super 1 Foods in Kalispell.

James Coby Smith in court

James Coby Smith appeared before District Court Judge Katherine  Curtis on Friday in Kalispell.

John Kerry

In this Dec. 20, 2012 file photo, Senate Foreign Relations Chairman John Kerry, D-Mass., leads a hearing on the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya, where the ambassador three other Americans were killed Sept. 11, on Capitol Hill in Washington. President Barack Obama on Friday will nominate Sen. John Kerry as his next secretary of state, a senior administration official says, making the first move in a sweeping overhaul of his national security team heading into a second term. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite)

Crosstown Wrestling

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Glacier's Grant Tafoya (left) takes down Flathead's Jake Shaffer during the 171-pound match Thursday evening during the Crosstown wrestling dual at Glacier High School. Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Miracle Baby

Ashley McDermott shows off pictures of her son, Cade, in the hospital on the day he was born.

FVCC Physical Therapy Assistant Program

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Kristina Bieber, left, a student in the physical therapy assistant program at Flathead Valley Community College, helps Marjorie Desch back into her wheel chair Thursday afternoon at Brendan House in Kalispell. Bieber spent four weeks at Brendan House doing clinical experience for the program. Brendan House physical therapist assistant Lori Graybill, right, and physical therapist Nicole Waldron supervise Bieber during the exercises. "At this point in clinicals she can pretty much do everything," said Graybill. Thursday, Dec. 20, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Montana Ice Fishing

Winter Survival

Whitefish Mountain Resort... Powder shots

Gun limits might hurt Flathead manufacturers

While gun sales are spiking across the country in the wake of last week’s school shooting in Connecticut, people in the firearms industry aren’t necessarily enjoying the profits.

Crosstown wrestling: Glacier pins Flathead

Glacier wrestling found the grit it had been missing earlier this season, grinding out a close 45-30 victory in the crosstown dual against Flathead on Thursday at Glacier High School.

Libby wrestlers split with Whitefish, C-Falls

LIBBY — Libby’s Greenchain split duals with two Northwestern A wrestling foes on Thursday.

Winslow leads Loggers past Troy, 51-42

TROY — Jared Winslow popped for 21 points and Barak Lapka added 12 as Libby beat Troy 51-42 in a Lincoln County boys basketball matchup Thursday evening.

Judge gets rousing sendoff

Flathead District Court proceedings started out more like a prize fight Thursday when attorneys and court staffers recognized Judge Stewart Stadler on his last day overseeing criminal cases.

Kalispell man gets 5 years for criminal endangerment

A 35-year-old Kalispell man was sentenced to five years in prison Thursday in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to two counts of felony criminal endangerment.

Restaurant owners find common ground

No matter what criticisms chef Robert Irvine made of the food at Kalispell’s Rising Sun Bistro during Wednesday night’s episode of “Restaurant: Impossible,” owner Peggy Kirby stands by her kitchen skills.

Man admits driving charges

A 48-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to amended charges of felony criminal endangerment and misdemeanor driving under the influence.

Eva Sarah Haack, 81

Eva Sarah Haack, 81, died of natural causes on Nov. 28, 2012, at 12:52 p.m. at Mountain View Care Center in Ronan. She lived a long life that could no longer contain her spirit. She passed from this world receiving the gift of many prayers and with family at her side.

Man gets 5 years for accountability to burglary

A 44-year-old Kalispell man was given a five-year suspended sentence Thursday in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to a felony charge of accountability to burglary.

Woman pleads not guilty to burglary

A 26-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of burglary.

Daybook

Montana man charged with waterboarding at least 2 boys

County approves revised flood-plain rules

Revised flood-plain regulations for Flathead County will take effect Jan. 1.

Conflict management

Sally Racine Truscheit walks through the cafe area of Rising Sun Bistro on Thursday afternoon. Rising Sun Bistro recently was featured on the Food Network show “Restaurant: Impossible.” Truscheit said the cafe area is her favorite part of the remodeling done by the show earlier this year.

Man sentenced for hitting boy

A 60-year-old Kalispell man was given a three-year deferred sentence Thursday in Flathead District Court after pleading to a reduced charge of felony criminal endangerment.

Fiscal cliff divers of D.C.

It’s hard to comprehend how frustrating the so-called “fiscal cliff”  non-negotiations in Washington must be for millions of Americans who expect the matter to actually be addressed.

Man pleads guilty to kicking cop

A 68-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of assault on a peace officer.

Crosstown Wrestling

Glacier’s Grant Tafoya (left) takes down Flathead’s Jake Shaffer during their 171-pound match Thursday evening. Tafoya won by pin in the third period.  

Therapist shares tips for loss of a child

Arleah Shechtman boldly pursues an unusual path, even during the season of good cheer.

Accidental shot lands man in hospital

A man was transported to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center after suffering an accidental gunshot wound to his arm.

Two killed in crash near Libby

Profile: Carinna Torgerson

A graphic related to brain connectivity by Carinna Torgerson at her home on Wednesday, December 19, in Bigfork.

Carinna Torgerson

At her home in Bigfork, Carinna Torgerson displays a copy of the magazine that published some of her graphics.

Montana Life: Christmas Programs

Montana Life: School Christmas Programs

Tre Krause, playing the part of Joseph, reads a letter explaining his thoughts and feelings as a witness to the events surround the birth of Jesus as part of the "Christmas Letters" program at Trinity Lutheran on Thursday, December 20, in Kalispell.

AA wrestling: Glacier looks to even series with Flathead

After winning its second straight crosstown dual last season, the Glacier wrestling squad looks to even the all-time series against Flathead at three wins apiece when it hosts the annual contest at 7 p.m. tonight.

Thief has to repay $15,450

A 29-year-old Kalispell man was given a six-year deferred sentence Dec. 13 in Flathead District Court after having pleaded guilty to felony theft.

David Lee Rogers

David Lee Rogers, son of Jesse Rogers and Destiny Baker, was born Nov. 15 at North Valley Hospital.

Trail program a valuable asset

The county commissioners made the right choice in awarding the Gateway to Glacier Trail project all of the county’s remaining federal trails money.

Seven youths face drug charges

Recent investigations into illegal drug activity at Glacier High School have led to the arrests of seven youths.

Logan Arthur Snell

Logan Arthur Snell, son of Chris and Raina Snell of Los Cabos, Mexico, was born Nov. 4 at North Valley Hospital.

Amira Gayle Knaff

Amira Gayle Knaff, daughter of Kyle and Gloria Knaff of Kalispell, was born Nov. 13 at North Valley Hospital.

Downtown store getting new life

For almost a decade, storefront windows at the Kelly-Main Street building have showcased a cavernous and forlorn — but vacant — interior near the busy intersection of Main and Center streets in downtown Kalispell.

Zoey Jae Thibert

Zoey Jae Thibert, daughter of Don and Molly Thibert of Kalispell, was born Nov. 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Columbia Falls community group disbands

A chapter in the history of philanthropy in Columbia Falls ended last week when the board of directors of First Best Place voted to dissolve the group.

Trajan Elden

Trajan Elden, son of David and Jen Elden, was born Nov. 10 at North Valley Hospital.

Louis Warren Webster, 74

Louis Warren Webster, 74, died in Kalispell on Dec. 17, 2012, of natural causes, with his family at his side.

Byron Lee Benson

Byron Lee Benson, son of Justin and Pauline Benson of Bigfork, was born Nov. 14 at North Valley Hospital.

Matthew Marino

Matthew Marino, son of Keith Fletcher and Tesla Baier of Kalispell, was born Oct. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Daybook

Keanu Curtis Burton Marquis

Keanu Curtis Burton Marquis, son of Dan and Jen Marquis of Eureka, was born Nov. 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Sophia Marlene Miller

Sophia Marlene Miller, daughter of Randall and Jessica Miller, was born Nov. 5 at North Valley Hospital.

Whitefish graduation moved to Majestic Valley

Whitefish High School’s Class of 2013 will have its commencement ceremony at Majestic Valley Arena.

School cops tasked with rumor patrol

Friday will be a normal day just like any other.

Stray bobcat returned to owner with warning

A School Addition Road resident called the

Billings students face discipline for school threats

Situation very similar to Kalispell case

Studio keeps young elves busy this week

Santa's workshop

Stumptown Art Studio has been transformed into Santa's workshop this week.

Libby search

David Thompson Search and Rescue members discuss plans during Wednesday's search for Carl Douglas' missing plane.

People's Choice winners named in Hockaday exhibit

Art classes for all ages at Stumptown

End-of-the-world parties around the Flathead

Linda Smith

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Linda Smith had to renovated her home after a velour wheat bag caught fire in her microwave and released toxic smoke throughout the house. Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Kelly Main Building

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Malachi Roybal points out repairs that need to be made Wednesday afternoon at the Kelly Main Building in downtown Kalispell. Wednesday, Dec. 19, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Santa's Workshop at Stumptown Art Studio

Santa's Workshop instructor Aida Hebard, right, shows off a blank soap dish Tuesday evening at Stumptown Art Studio in Whitefish. Each student decorated his own soap dish on Tuesday.

Fresh Snow

Peaks north of Bigfork gleam in the afternoon sunlight on Wednesday, December 19.

Hockaday People's Choice

Gail Hansen's "Cactus Blooms" took third place in the Members Salon's People's Choice Awards

Stumptown book class

A class on creating altered books will be offered for adults at Stumptown Art Studio during its winter session.

Fairgrounds party

Several DJs will be on tap at an end-of-the-world party at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Friday.

Crush end-of-the-world party

Crush Wine Bar's end-of-the-world party kicks off at 10 p.m. Friday.

Whitefish Coaching Legend Julio Delgado

Former Whitefish basketball coach Julio Delgado sits in front of the trophy cases at Whitefish High School on Wednesday, December 12.

Visiting Big Mountain

Donald Kramer of Shelby makes his way down the slopes at the Whitefish Mountain Resort on Tuesday, December 18, in Whitefish.

Judge halts vote on water compact

Lake County District Judge C.B. McNeil has issued an order that puts a planned vote on a Flathead Reservation water rights compact on hold.

Louis Warren Webster, 74

Braves stick it to Hellgate

The Flathead wrestling team tallied five pins and three wins by decision in a 63-15 rout of Missoula Hellgate in its first home dual of the season Tuesday.

Libby defeats Glacier in dual

The Libby wrestling team dominated a depleted Glacier squad, winning a dual 46-30 at Glacier High School on Tuesday.

WF burglar sentenced

A 21-year-old Whitefish man was given a 10-year suspended sentence Dec. 13 in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to a reduced charge of felony burglary.

Board considers gym's permit request

The Whitefish City-County Planning Board closes out its year on Thursday with two public hearings on zoning matters and discussion about Whitefish sign law issues.

Machine tech programs approved

Flathead Valley Community College’s board of trustees adopted two certificates in industrial machine technology at its regular December meeting held Monday.

Council approves Kidsports land deal

Kalispell will spend $2.26 million to buy a permanent school trust land easement for the Kidsports youth athletic complex.

Thompson project gets tax break

A tax break for a light manufacturing plant to be built by local entrepreneur Ray Thompson was approved Monday by the Flathead County commissioners.

Cellphone ordinance rejected

Text message and talk without fear of a fine, Kalispell drivers — that is, unless you run out of minutes on your monthly plan or break some other traffic law while doing it.

Daybook

Whitefish community effort

Volunteers come together at Whitefish Presbyterian Church Wednesday morning in an assembly line to put together food bags. About 400 bags were delivered to local schools to hand out to students who are served by the reduced-price breakfast and lunch programs and need meal assistance over the Christmas break. The Whitefish Community Foundation and Whitefish PTA were involved in the project. Iron Horse Foundation contributed $6,000 to the project, and Buffalo Cafe owners Charlie and Linda Metzold coordinated the food for the bags. Students at Whitefish High School, Whitefish Middle School, Muldown Elementary, Whitefish Christian Academy and Olney-Bissell School will receive the bags.

Whitefish refinancing saves money on interest rates

 Whitefish School District will pass on savings to taxpayers after the district recently refinanced bonds in the elementary district and completed financing a $14 million bond issue for high school reconstruction.

Boy accosts ex-girlfriend in parking lot

A boy was arrested by the

Flathead Wrestling

Flathead heavyweight Axel Bladholm (top) tries to turn Missoula Hellgate’s Skylar Nowlen Tuesday evening during Flathead’s Western AA home dual.

Glacier Wrestling

Glacier’s Quinn Barber (bottom) tries to hang on as Libby’s Michael Ayala makes an escape during their 130-pound match Tuesday evening at Glacier High School. 

Helen M. Witts, 88

Helen M. Witts, 88, passed away on Friday, Dec. 14, 2012, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Polson. She was the first daughter of Fred and Lenore Tri, born June 11, 1924, in Havre. She attended private Catholic schools in Havre and Great Falls. She moved with her family to Minnesota and graduated from Bemidji State Teachers College with a degree in elementary education in 1947. She often joked about having boys in her classrooms for the first time in college.

A Soldier's Return

Psc. Collin Wunderlich of Kalispell, a member of the Army National Guard, gets a hug from his mother Paula Wunderlich on Monday afternoon, December 18, as he arrives home from Advanced Individual Training in Va. Wunderlich left the Flathead in August for Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Mo. He then went straight on to AIT. When he returns to AIT he will still have six weeks before he finishes and will then be stationed in Kalispell.

George Roy Niewoehner, 73

George Roy Niewoehner, who was born on July 11, 1939, in Helena, died on Dec. 15, 2012, in Kalispell after a brief, but ravaging illness.

Joshua Scott Tyree, 20 months

Billy Mohan, 78

Clarence Marvin Caudill, 80

Joy to the World - Christmas Light Show 2012

Margaret Mee, 72

John Lee Osler, 79

Restaurant show airs Wednesday

 The owners of Rising Sun Bistro of Kalispell have been asked not to speak to the media until after their makeover episode of “Restaurant Impossible” runs on Wednesday at 8 p.m. on the Food Network. 

Conrad Cemetery named to historic register

The cemetery named for Kalispell founder Charles E. Conrad now has an official place in history.

Glacier to add 7 to Wall of Fame

Glacier High School activities director Mark Dennehy has announced that seven graduates have been selected to join the school’s Wall of Fame this week.

Students disciplined for rumors

While the nation reels from a horrific school shooting in Connecticut, flippant “end-of-the-world” comments by some Kalispell high school students have sparked unfounded rumors that someone will try to blow up or shoot up a local school on Friday.

2 funerals begin a sad procession in Connecticut

Superfund designation sought for CFAC land

C. Falls woman wins fame, family in reality show

Lois Marquardt Mitchell, 86

APTOPIX Connecticut School Shooting

A mourner arrives at the funeral service for 6-year-old Noah Pozner Monday in Fairfield, Conn. Pozner was killed when a gunman walked into Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown Friday and opened fire, killing 26 people, including 20 children.

Did landlord go to the mattresses?

Danny Wayne Havens

Danny Wayne Havens, son of Matt Havens and Michele Weatherwax of Hungry Horse, was born Nov. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

Michael D'Antonio

Michael D’Antonio, son of Peter and Amy D’Antonio of Kalispell, was born Nov. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Griffin Ryan Miller

Griffin Ryan Miller, son of Jesse and Sara Miller of Whitefish, was born Nov. 7 at North Valley Hospital.

Ava Claire Whorley

Ava Claire Whorley, daughter of Todd and Lara Whorley of Bellevue, Wash., was born Aug. 7 at Overlake Hospital in Bellevue.

Caleb Ritter

Caleb Ritter, son of Steve and Marci Ritter of Bigfork, was born Nov. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lainey Anne Dexter

Lainey Anne Dexter, daughter of Dustin and Alyssa Dexter, was born Nov. 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Ruedi Max Sawtelle

Ruedi Max Sawtelle, son of Eric and Camisha Sawtelle of Whitefish, was born Nov. 3 at North Valley Hospital.

Week in Pictures: December 10-16

Arizona man killed in wreck

A Scottsdale, Ariz., man died Sunday in a single-vehicle accident on U.S. 93 in Whitefish.

Celebrating a life

Family and friends gathered at Columbia Falls High School on Sunday to celebrate the life of Taylor Peterson, “a very special little lady.”

Resolutions for Kidsports, cell phone ban on Kalispell agenda

Kalispell City Council

The Kalispell City Council closes out the year with several big-ticket items on tonight’s agenda.

Man says wife took off with his cash

A Fourth Avenue East man told

Taylor Peterson

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A volleyball signed by friends and teammates on display Sunday afternoon during a celebration of life ceremony for Taylor Peterson at Columbia Falls High School Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012 in Columbia Falls, Montana.

Glacier downs Great Falls

The Glacier boys slowly spread their lead in beating Great Falls High 57-47 in a Class AA nonconference basketball game Saturday afternoon, earning an early season sweep of the teams from the Electric City.

Basketball roundup: West hits 29 points in Flathead's victory over Libby

LIBBY — Garth West scored 15 of his game-high 29 points in the opening quarter as Flathead rolled past Libby 66-49 in boys basketball nonconference play Saturday afternoon.

Swimming: Loydas, Streit, Cirincione set Glacier relay records

GREAT FALLS — Glacier swimmers Jordan Loyda, Logan Streit, Jake Cirincione and Josh Loyda won four relays and set three new school records in the process on Saturday at the Great Falls Invitational.

Stan Lynde rides off on new South American adventure

Repeat shoplifter chased down

Glacier makes AP honor roll

Glacier High School recently was listed on the College Board’s Third Annual AP District Honor Roll.

Man sets up lights for a cause

Northridge display raising money for pediatrics fund

Adam Birks’ display of 15,000 Christmas lights is impressive in its own right, but he has added a charitable twist to the light show to make it even better.

Man pleads not guilty to drug charge

A 53-year-old Albany, Ore., man pleaded not guilty Dec. 6 in Flathead District Court to a felony charge of conspiracy in the criminal distribution of dangerous drugs.

Open house planned for commissioner on Monday

An open house for retiring Flathead County Commissioner Dale Lauman will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. Monday, Dec. 17, at the commissioner chambers on the third floor of the main courthouse in Kalispell.

The uncivil war over unions

Last week’s union protests in Michigan, the cradle of organized labor, have been startling in their fierceness, and they are not entirely irrelevant to Montana.

Police look online to help investigations

When it comes to property thefts, Kalispell police are hitting the Internet to look for tips online.

Regarding the Jesus statue on Big Mountain: A few questions for atheists

Recently, an atheist in Whitefish resurrected the lawsuit opposing the Jesus statue on Big Mountain. I have a few questions for that atheist, and maybe all atheists.

Daybook

New owner of Shipping Station immersed in busy holiday season

Taking over an established business can present some challenges for a new owner, but that didn’t stop Duane Dierenfield from jumping in when he bought The Shipping Station in Evergreen.

Let the majority's will prevail on Jesus statue

Recently, while watching “Jeopardy,” I saw a question that informed us the origin of the typical Rooster atop most traditional weather vanes. It turns out that it stems back to the New Testament when Jesus told Peter that before the cock crowed, he would deny him thrice.

Tree sales span six decades

Raymond Robinson remembers when Robinson Tree Farms grew thousands of Scotch pine Christmas trees on its 50 acres on Montana 35.

Pranks must follow 'do no harm' rule

The recent suicide of the nurse who responded to a prank call at the London hospital treating Princess Kate is a sad turn of events and an unfortunate example of the unintended consequences created by a practical joke gone horribly wrong.

Bankers hours - Three longtime Flathead Valley financial executives retiring

Walter B. Woodcock, 93

Walter B. Woodcock, 93, passed away Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012, at St. Joseph Hospital.

Cowpoke cartoonist

Stan Lynde reflects on his journey as a well-known cartoonist at the Montana Historical Society in Helena Nov. 9. Lynde, 81, is known not only across Montana, but also nationally for his two popular syndicated Western cartoon strips, “Rick O’Shay” and “Latigo,” which appeared in major newspapers reaching some 15 million readers. Earlier this month, Lynde donated some of his original art, memorabilia and possessions to the Montana Historical Society.

Fair-Mont-Egan youth wins logo contest

Fair-Mont-Egan eighth-grader Caleb LeClercq’s design was selected as the winner of the Graduation Matters Kalispell logo contest.

A humanist perspective on freedom and religion

Based on several opinion articles and comments on various websites, it appears that there is quite a bit of misinformation (and hostility) regarding why atheists/secular humanists are opposed to Ten Commandments monuments, religious shrines, etc. on public land.

Flathead's Egley 160-pound champ at Holiday Wrestling Classic

GREAT FALLS — Flathead’s Jake Egley pinned Glacier’s Jackson Barber in the third period of the 160-pound championship bout at the 35th annual Holiday Wrestling Classic in Great Falls Saturday.

Mat Cats win Buzz Lucey Invitational

EUREKA — Columbia Falls had five individual champions and also claimed the team title on Saturday at the Buzz Lucey Invitational wrestling tournament.

Evil exists; so does good

There is really no possibility of writing about anything this weekend other than the school shooting that occurred on Friday in Newtown, Conn.

Glacier Basketball

Glacier’s Charlie Obermiller (2) drives past Great Falls defender Dylan Tatarka (11) Saturday evening during a Class AA nonconference matchup at Glacier High School. 

Joseph Butler, 57

Charles 'Tommy' Thomas Elliott, 70

Welcome aboard! This is a phrase many heard from Charles Thomas Elliott, locally known as “The Caboose Guy.” Tommy “stepped off the train for his last time” Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, after a courageous and exhausting battle with cancer. He was 70 years old.

Francis Allen Schwenke, 65

Francis Allen Schwenke passed away on Tuesday, Dec. 4, 2012.

Daniel Justin Welch, 41

Daniel Justin Welch, 41, of Kalispell, formerly of Chicago Heights, Ill., passed away Dec. 2, 2012.

Sherry Peterson

Brenna Reggiero points to an egg she found inside a rabbit cage Wednesday afternoon while collecting eggs inside the greenhouse behind Sherry Lewis-Peterson's house in Columbia Falls. Lewis-Peterson, left, is planning to start a farm-based school where children with learning disabilities can learn agricultural skills.  

Robinson Tree Farms

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Diane Robinson adjust a tree Saturday afternoon at the Robinson Tree Farm tree lot in Evergreen. Saturday, Dec. 15, 2012 in Evergreen., Montana.

Braves nip Wildcats

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Flathead boys basketball team held off a late surge by Columbia Falls to earn a 53-50 nonconference victory at Columbia Falls High School Friday.

Flathead slips by C-Falls

COLUMBIA FALLS — The Flathead girls forced Columbia Falls into nearly 30 turnovers, stringing together a late run to edge past the Wildkats 42-40 on Friday.

Holiday Wrestling Classic: Glacier, Ronan keep 6 in championship round

GREAT FALLS — Glacier and Ronan both have six wrestlers who have advanced past the second round in the championship bracket on Friday at the 35th annual Holiday Wrestling Classic at the CMR Fieldhouse.

Jeff Johnson, 45

Speech, debate students match wits and words

Katherine Champion came out of Glacier High School Room D-218 breathless, her faced flushed from the physical exertion of performing a Humorous Interpretation piece during the preliminary round of the Valley Talkdown speech and debate exhibition.

Tanner Ray Rohletter

Walter B. Woodcock, 93

Bradley Cain Bradford

Dalton Marshall Leigh

Vera Louise Swisher, 87

Vera Louise Swisher, 87, passed away at home Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012, in Whitefish.

Boy admits series of Evergreen offenses

The first of three teens facing felony charges after a string of burglaries in Evergreen admitted several offenses during Flathead Youth Court proceedings Friday morning.

More details emerge from Wednesday stabbing

More details are emerging in the Wednesday stabbing of a 25-year-old man through documents filed charging his alleged attacker.

Robert Lawson “Bob” Sellars, 68

Daybook

Well, that isn't very neighborly

A

Graduation Matters Kalispell

Caleb LeClercq’s logo design won a contest for Graduation Matters Kalispell.

FHS vs. CFalls Basketball

Flathead vs. Columbia Falls Basketball

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Friday night during Flathead's matchup against Columbia Falls at Columbia Falls High School. Friday, Dec. 14, 2012 in Columbia Falls, Montana.

Retiring Banker Bob Schneider

Bob Schneider is retiring from his position at First Interstate in Kalispell. Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Horses, team bus collide

A Eureka school bus collided with two horses late Thursday night, but bus occupants suffered only minor injuries.

Shooting rampage at school

A woman waits to hear about her sister, a teacher, following a shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., Friday.

Man kills 28 - including 20 children

In this photo provided by the Newtown Bee, Connecticut State Police lead children from the school. Twenty-seven people, including 20 children and the shooter, were killed in the second-deadliest school shooting in U.S. history.

Massacre claims 26 lives at grade school

Man kills 28 — including 20 children

NEWTOWN, Conn. — A man killed his mother at their home and then opened fire Friday inside an elementary school, massacring 26 people, including 20 children, as youngsters cowered in fear to the sound of gunshots reverberating through the building and screams echoing over the intercom.

Connecticut school shooting

Parents leave a staging area after being reunited with their children.

Adam Birks Christmas Lights

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake The lightshow is synchronized with Christmas carols that are broadcast on 97.9 FM. Thursday, Dec. 13, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Christmas lights

Adam Birks has a computer-controlled light display at his home in the Northridge subdivision of Kalispell. Birks is raising money for the Kalispell Regional Medical Center pediatrics fund.

'If you can't grieve, you can't heal'

Arleah Shechtman’s book, “My Beloved Child,” offers guidelines for grieving based on the death of her daughter and Schechtman’s years as a psychotherapist.

Monday Profile

Tom Opre poses in his home east of Kalispell.

Tanner Maroney

2012 Valley Talkdown

Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake From left, Jake Wilson and Jesse Francis, of Flathead, do a Duo Interpretation of Walt Disney's The Sword in the Stone on Thursday, December 13, in Kalispell.From left, Jake Wilson and Jesse Francis, of Flathead, do a Duo Interpretation of Walt Disney's The Sword in the Stone on Thursday, December 13, in Kalispell.

Eureka girls whip Bigfork

BIGFORK — The Eureka Lady Lions opened their District 7B schedule with a 40-24 win over Bigfork at Bigfork High School Thursday.

Class A wrestling: Three Northwestern A teams ranked in poll

Three teams from Northwestern A hold down spots in the second Class A wrestling poll of the season.

Money and Montana politics

Any doubts about the pervasiveness of big money in politics should be erased by the stunning numbers released this week about the Montana U.S. Senate race.

Live burn planned near Lone Pine trail

The Smith Valley Fire Department is conducting a live burn exercise Saturday at an abandoned home west of Kalispell.

Daybook

Would-be casino robber is still at large

Sheriff’s deputies are still looking for a man who used a gun to try and rob an Evergreen casino Wednesday night.

Cranky man confronts plow driver

A confused plow truck driver contacted the

Community gathering planned for C.Falls teen

The Daily Inter Lake

Final court day jovial for judge

Criminal proceedings at Flathead District Court began in a much more jovial spirit than usual on Thursday.

Veteran Bigfork columnist Barb Strate dies at 89

Longtime Bigfork Eagle columnist Barb Strate died Dec. 1. She was 89.

Woman risks life to save dog

A Kalispell woman risked her own life and limb to save a dog in distress Monday afternoon.

Park considers dredging, riprap work at bridges

Public comments are encouraged by Jan. 3 on a proposal for streambed maintenance and riprap installation at bridges and culverts along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park.

Hungry Horse man guilty of felony assault

A 21-year-old Hungry Horse man pleaded guilty Dec. 6 in Flathead District Court to felony assault with a weapon.

Bigfork Basketball

Bigfork junior Tessa Robertson gets a wide open shot under the basket Thursday night during Bigfork’s contest with Eureka.

Conrad Cemetery

Conrad Memorial Cemetery has been listed on the National Register of Historical Places. 

Francis Allen Schwenke, 65

Daniel Justin Welch, 41

Wilma 'Billie' Ruth Beck, 90

Wilma "Billie" Ruth Beck, 90, “went to sit at the feet of her Savior” on Nov. 28, 2012. She died in North Bend, Wash.

Flathead Sled Dog Days Movie TRAILER | Snow Action Sports

Montana Snowmobiling 2012

Montana- Big Sky- 2012

Skiing Montana Snowbowl- Hot Laps

Donald R. Waldron, 84

Don, 84, of Kalispell, passed away on Dec. 6, 2012, in Arizona of complications from Parkinson's disease.

Wilhma Helen Delaney, 86

Wilhma Helen Delaney, 86, of Polson, passed away Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, at St. Patrick Hospital, Missoula.

Judge Katherine Curtis

District Judge Katherine Curtis is retiring at the end of the year after 18 years on the bench.

Efficiency expert

Bill Nicholson, field engineer for Montana State University College of Engineering, recently moved his Montana Manufacturing Extension Center office to Flathead Valley Community College.

Retiring Bankers

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Jack King looks out off his back porch Wednesday afternoon at his house west of Kalispell. King recently retired from his position as executive vice president of Valley Bank. Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Attempted armed robbery

Sgt. Phil Meredith and other members of the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office search for evidence Wednesday night following an attempted armed robbery at the Player’s Club casino on U.S. 2 in Evergreen.

Snow Flight PPG (Jon Erdmann video)

How will you celebrate New Year's Eve?

Kalispell man hurt in fight

A Kalispell man is in stable condition after being stabbed during an altercation in his vehicle Tuesday night in Kalispell.

William Irvin Smith Jr., 50

Man attempts armed robbery in Evergreen

A man armed with a handgun unsuccessfully attempted to rob an Evergreen casino Wednesday night.

A special shopping trip

Columbia Falls Police Officer Gary Stanberry holds up a pair of overalls for Isaiah Melvin, 7, on Wednesday at Target in Kalispell as part of the department’s annual Shop with a Cop program.

Artists invited to apply for wilderness program

The Flathead National Forest, Hockaday Museum of Art, Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation and Swan Ecosystem Center invite artists to apply for the 2013 Artist-Wilderness-Connection Program.

Early designs unveiled for Whitefish City Hall

Consultants studying parking-garage options for downtown Whitefish rolled out conceptual drawings last week of what a new City Hall and parking structure could look like when City Hall is rebuilt at its current location.

Crash victim identified

A man killed last week after his pickup slid off U.S. 12 near Avon and rolled has been identified by the Powell County coroner as 41-year-old Daniel Welch of Kalispell.

Legislators fighting 'dark money'

Lawmakers file complaints against advocacy groups

Federal convict pleads not guilty to local charges

A 27-year-old Kalispell man recently convicted in federal court pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to two felony counts of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs.

Talkdown features top local speakers

Top speech and debate students from three schools will compete today in the Valley Talkdown at Glacier High School in Kalispell.

Flathead to host state 4-H horse show

The Flathead County 4-H program has won the bid to hold the state 4-H horse show in Kalispell next September.

Downed power lines close U.S. 2 briefly

According to the

Air show to be 2013 highlight

The skies over the Flathead Valley will be crisscrossed by fighter jets next summer in the form of the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

C.F. man pleads not guilty to federal charge

A 53-year-old Columbia Falls man pleaded not guilty Wednesday during U.S. District Court proceedings in Missoula to a federal trafficking charge.

Daybook

County looks at privatizing recycling program

Facing a cost increase of up to 30 percent for a recycling program that’s losing money, the Flathead County Solid Waste District Board has decided to try privatizing the program.

Twins' e-book offers advice to game newcomers

Minecraft mentors

Mike Eldred gives holiday performance

North Valley Music School offers kids' classes

Distillery holds hobbit-themed party

Cookbook author holds signing, sampling

Bistro's 'Restaurant Impossible' episode airs Dec. 19

Stumptown Players hold auditions

Bet Harim hosts two holiday shows

Pitiful Players stage 'A Christmas Carol'

3 days of free admission at the Hockaday

Della Marie Spindler, 93

Della Marie Spindler passed away at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula on Monday, Dec. 10, 2012, at the age of 93, six days short of her 94th birthday. She died of complications encountered after suffering a broken hip.

Basil V. Everin, 92

On Dec. 8, 2012, the world lost a remarkable man. His energy and love for life was endless. Always with a smile on his face and a friend to all that met him, Basil lived a full and contented life.

Taylor Rae Peterson, 17

Taylor Rae Peterson, 17, of Columbia Falls, “went to be with her Lord and Savior” on Dec. 10, 2012, after a courageous battle with cancer, surrounded by her family at her home. Taylor was a loving daughter, granddaughter, niece, cousin and friend.

Otto Alonzo Bessey, 77

Otto Alonzo Bessey, 77, “was called home by Jesus” in the morning of Dec. 8, 2012, at his home in Kalispell.

Crits & Croissants rescheduled for Saturday

Harold 'Jay' Kilpatrick, 79

Harold “Jay” Kilpatrick passed away on Dec. 11, 2012.

Hugh G. McLean, 85

Hugh G. McLean, 85, passed away peacefully at his home on Saturday, Dec. 8, 2012, with his family at his side.

Shop with a Cop

Patrolman Mike Johnson walks alongside Gabe Melvin 5, on Wednesday, December 12, at Target in Kalispell as part of the Shop with a Cop program.

Mike Eldred

Gail Jokerst: Hungry Bear Kitchen

Gail Jokerst will sign copies of and offer samples of recipes from her cookbook, “The Hungry Bear Kitchen: Recipes and Writings," from 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 22 at Montana House in Glacier National Park's Apgar Village.

Luke Walrath

David Ackroyd

Pitiful Players 'A Christmas Carol'

The Pitiful Players will stage two free productions of "A Christmas Carol" Dec. 14 and 15 in Libby.

Flathead wrestlers win duals in Ronan

RONAN — Despite missing five starters, the Flathead wrestling team won a pair of duals in Ronan, beating the host 53-29 and topping St. Ignatius 65-24.

Girls basketball: Glacier blows out Whitefish, 59-14

The Glacier girls didn’t take long to take control of their game against Whitefish Tuesday night, scoring the first 14 points against the Bulldogs on the way to a 59-14 nonconference blowout.

Boys basketball: Wolfpack pummels Bulldogs

The Glacier boys basketball team showed a glimpse of how it dangerous it could be this season, working the fast break for 65 points and a 36-point nonconference victory over Whitefish at home on Tuesday night, winning 65-29.

Once-a-century event

Zachary Bernheim of Kalispell holds his newborn son, Maximus Alexander Bernheim, on Wednesday afternoon at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Maximus was born at 12:12 p.m., completing a rare numerical series on Dec. 12, 2012. Bernheim said his wife, Chrissy, picked the date for the special delivery. Due to a previous Caesarean section, they were told this baby also would have to be delivered by that method. Their physician, Dr. Thomas De Hoop, told them they could pick any date between Dec. 9 and 20. Chrissy chose 12-12 and the doctor said he would take the baby at 12:12 p.m. “Some people were even more excited about this baby than the New Year’s baby because this is a once-a-century event,” Bernheim said. Bernheim said the birth certificate only records the hour and minute of the birth, but he remembers seeing the seconds and seeing the row of six 12s — 12:12:12 p.m. on the 12th day of the 12th month of 2012.

Breakfast at Santa's Workshop

The Kalispell North Fire Station was filled with people on Saturday, December 8, at the Breakfast at Santa's Workshop.

Christmas crafts

From left, Elayna Hagen, 8, of Bigfork and her cousin Tia Good, 7, of Kalispell work on Christmas crafts on Saturday during the Breakfast at Santa’s Workshop event at the Kalispell North Fire Station. The event was a fundraiser for the Woodland Montessori Foundation.

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Flathead Business Journal: Glacier Symphony and Chorale

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale performs Beethoven's Ninth Symphony and the Ode to Joy to a full house on Sunday, November 18, in Kalispell.

Flathead Business Journal: Tien Windaur

Tien and Maureen Windauer with one of the boots they used in raising funds for Taylor Peterson on Friday, December 7, at Tien's Place in Columbia Falls.

Otto Alonzo Bessey, 77

Harold 'Jay' Kilpatrick, 79

Taylor Rae Peterson, 17

Hugh G. McLean, 85

Basil V. Everin, 92

Bill Nicholson

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Bill Nicholson at Flathead Valley Community College. Friday, Dec. 7, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Judges

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake District Court Judge Stewart Stadler. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Lori Adams

Deputy county attorney Lori Adams will be Kalispell’s next Municipal Court judge.

Judge Curtis

Judges burdened by heavy workload

An annual study again shows Montana judges are overburdened by a workload that sees them handling as many as 85 matters a day and more.

Online signup now offered for city programs

Starting this winter with youth sports programs, the Kalispell Parks and Recreation Department is rolling out an online registration and payment system for interested parents.

Business leaders express optimism

A panel of business leaders was generally optimistic about the near future for the economy in Montana and the Flathead Valley, and while some issues have their attention, no alarm bells are going off regarding the upcoming legislative session.

Kidsports deal taking shape

City council ready to pay $2.27 million

Dan Johns, director of Kidsports, went out for Chinese food before the Kalispell City Council’s work session on Monday.

Glacier's No. 2 to become interim superintendent

Glacier National Park’s No. 2 official will take over for retiring Superintendent Chas Cartwright at the end of the year with an eye toward filling the position permanently.

Gateway trail project gets county funding

Trail along U.S. 2 to be dedicated to Jim Dupont

The Gateway to Glacier Trail planned along U.S. 2 from Coram to West Glacier will get Flathead County’s entire allocation of federal trails money.

Dogs get in hot water over cold water immersions

Emergency responders were called out for two animal rescues in 24 hours for dogs in the water.

Kalispell man contests vehicular assault charge

A 22-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony negligent vehicular assault and two other charges.

Daybook

Blacktail opens Saturday

Blacktail Mountain Ski Area opens for the season on Saturday, Dec. 15.

Glacier vs. Whitefish Basketball

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Tuesday night during Glacier's home victory over Whitefish. Tuesday, Dec. 11, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Cash-short recount bid called off

Republican Sandy Welch is dropping her request for a recount in the state Superintendent of Public Instruction race that she narrowly lost to incumbent Democrat Denise Juneau.

Irene Lyons, 90

Irene Lyons, 90, “went home to be with her beloved husband William “Bill” on Dec. 9, 2012. She was met by her Lord and Savior.”

Cutest Pet Contest

A boy's magic numbers - 12-12-12

Parker Greene turns 12 years old today at noon. He is celebrating the day with his mother and sister by taking a day off from school and following clues around the valley in a scavenger hunt.

Hazmat Drill in Whitefish

Members of the Kalispell Fire Department Hazmat Team and the Army National Guard 83rd Community Support Team out of Helena arrive on the scene of a mock toxic spill on Tuesday, December 11, in Whitefish. Several agencies joined forces for Tuesday's drill including the Flathead County Office of Emergency Services, the Whitefish, Columbia Falls and Kalispell Fire Departments, the Whitefish Police, the Flathead County Sheriff's Department and many others.

Week in Pictures: December 3-9

Air show's a go for Flathead Valley

The U.S. Air Force’s elite Thunderbirds are coming to the Flathead Valley next July for the Mountain Madness 2013 air show.

Rush Parriera Hall

Rush Parriera Hall, son of Tyler and Stephanie Hall of Kalispell, was born Nov. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Sylus Steele Hultquist

Sylus Steele Hultquist, son of Ryan Hultquist and Alyssa Dickey of Kalispell, was born Oct. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Ella Jean Heyne

Ella Jean Heyne, daughter of Justin and Carly Heyne of Whitefish, was born Nov. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Irene Lyons, 90

Ranee Holmquist

Ranee Holmquist, daughter of Cody Holmquist and Alyssa Halstad of Kalispell, was born Oct. 31 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Chloe Rose Hicks-Szalay

Chloe Rose Hicks-Szalay, daughter of Ian Szalay and Tara Hicks of Kalispell, was born Oct. 31  at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Francis Schwenke, 65

Ashlin Faye Chapman

Ashlin Faye Chapman, daughter of Summer Chapman of Kalispell, was born Oct. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Hudson Lloyd Alan Smith

Hudson Lloyd Alan Smith, son of Daniel Smith and Jacquelyn Pierson of Kalispell, was born Oct. 31 at North Valley Hospital.

Youth's life measured in dozens

Twelve is a perfect number for Parker Greene of Columbia Falls.

Jackson Alexander Beckham

Jackson Alexander Beckham, son of Zachary and Violet Beckham of Kalispell, was born Nov. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Bohdan Graves

Bohdan Graves, son of Rich Graves and Keri Thorn of Whitefish, was born Oct. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Emery Sund

Emery Sund, daughter of Chris and Jana Sund of Kalispell, was born Oct. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Colin Mahoney

Colin Mahoney, son of Brian and Connie Mahoney of Bigfork, was born Nov. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Collin Rhodes

Collin Rhodes, son of Sean and Melissa Rhodes of Kalispell, was born Oct. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Rayna Kristene Dukes

Rayna Kristene Dukes, daughter of Kevin Dukes and Courtney Jordan of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

Lyla Rain McDonald

Lyla Rain McDonald, daughter of Jacob McDonald and Jolene Begay of Columbia Falls, was born Nov. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

Bigfork subdivision gets nine-year extension

In an unprecedented move, the Flathead County commissioners last week agreed to extend the planned unit development for a Bigfork subdivision for another nine years.

Woman admits years of food-stamp fraud

 A 38-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded guilty Wednesday during U.S. District Court proceedings in Missoula to theft of federal property by fraud.

Sentencing delayed for young shooter

 What is “intent’? What is “choice”? The answers to those abstract questions could be crucial in determining just how many years Bryson Patrick Connolly will spend in a very concrete prison cell.

Man involved in murder case going to prison

 A 23-year-old man originally given a five-year suspended sentence for tampering with evidence in a murder case is now going to jail because he violated his probation.

State won't appeal recount decision

The state of Montana will not appeal a Flathead District Court ruling allowing a statewide recount of votes in the narrow race for Superintendent of Public Instruction, a spokeswoman for the Montana Department of Justice said Monday.

Mildred C. Britzman Chidley, 93

Mildred C. Britzman Chidley, 93, died Nov. 27, 2012, in Campbell, Calif.

Dennis Haider, 67

Dennis Haider, 67, of Hungry Horse, “went home on Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012, to be with his son Joel in time for Christmas, and now they are both watching over Brenda.”

Arnold Doyle Schreffler, 75

It is with great sadness that the family of Arnold Schreffler of Liberty, Saskatchewan, announce his passing. He was born Jan. 28, 1937, and died Nov. 27, 2012.

Arnold Schreffler

Man reports neighbor for early exercising

Monday morning, at about 6 a.m., a Fourth Avenue East resident called

To an Athlete Dying Young

Byrson Connolly Sentencing Continued

This view looks through a bullet hole in the windshield of Deputy Roger Schiff’s vehicle in August 2011. In the background is the vehicle driven by Bryson Connolly.

Bryson Connolly Sentencing Continued

FROM LEFT, Sam Cox, Eric Morrison and more than a dozen members of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office and other law enforcement agencies turned out in support of Deputy Roger Schiff at a sentencing hearing for Bryson Connolly on Monday in Kalispell.

Bryson Connolly Sentencing

Bryson Connolly sits in court during his sentencing hearing Monday. He had previously pleaded no contest to shooting at a Flathead County sheriff’s deputy in August 2011.

Teen succumbs to cancer

Columbia Falls High School senior Taylor Peterson, whose battle with cancer galvanized the community, died Monday at her Columbia Falls home.

John D. Hanger, 91

Toys For Tots

Ed Toren of Columbia Falls made 216 wooden toys for Toys for Tots this year.

Undercover giving

Woodworker quietly goes all out for Toys for Tots

Ed Toren says he’s a “slide under the table” kind of guy. He likes working behind the scenes to help those in need.

Ride from bar a costly one

Saturday afternoon, a woman told

Montana senators help move bill forward

Stolen Valor Act

The U.S. Supreme Court earlier this year struck down the Stolen Valor Act that made it a crime to falsely claim a military award, but lawmakers in both the House and Senate have moved forward with new, more specific versions of the law.

Monday Profile

Jan Vonlindren is director of the Columbia Falls Food Bank. 

Offering help for the hungry

Food bank director thrives on volunteer work

Janyce Von Lindern of Columbia Falls believes that a person’s character and deeds are what count in life.

County commissioners fill more board vacancies

Local board news

The Flathead County commissioners made more county board appointments Thursday as they work to fill remaining vacancies by year’s end.

Clerks at four stores cited for selling alcohol

Kalispell police identified four businesses violating alcohol laws during compliance checks on Nov. 29.

Swimmers post personal bests

BUTTE — The Glacier and Flathead swim teams each posted a handful of personal bests at the Butte High swim meet on Saturday.

Mining City Duals: Rough go for Flathead; Glacier, C-Falls finish strong

BUTTE — The Flathead wrestling team failed to advance to the semifinals of the Mining City Duals after losing both its matches in championship round pool play on Saturday.

Kazlauskas, Presnell help Columbia Falls tip Corvallis

HAMILTON — Columbia Falls closed with an 18-point fourth quarter to close out Corvallis 56-44 on Saturday on the final day of the boys basketball Northwest-Southwest Tip-off Tournament.

Wildkats open season 2-0

CORVALLIS — Columbia Falls used an early 15-7 advantage to coast to a 57-35 girls basketball victory over Corvallis on the second day of the Northwest-Southwest Tip-off Tournament on Saturday.

Glacier Nationals blank Vancouver, again

VANCOUVER, Wash. — The Glacier Nationals shut out the Vancouver Vipers for the second straight day, earning a 5-0 win Saturday.

Flathead's Perrin earns All-America honor

SAN DIEGO — In a field of the 40 top high school runners in the nation, Flathead senior Zach Perrin ran with the best of them, finishing 10th at the 34th annual Foot Locker Cross Country Championships National Finals on Saturday morning, earning All-America honors with a time of 15 minutes, 32 seconds.

Great Falls drops Flathead

A 12-2 Great Falls run to start the third quarter was enough to put away the Flathead Bravettes, who suffered a 56-47 nonconference loss in their Class AA season-opener at Flathead High School Saturday.

Braves lose to Bison

GREAT FALLS — Flathead turned in a strong finish, but it wasn’t enough to catch Great Falls High on Saturday.

Water compact will bring stability for everyone

By now you’ve heard about the debate and concerns regarding the long-anticipated state-tribal water compact in the Mission Valley. If successful, the compact will end decades of uncertainty and establish how water rights are managed for all residents in the Flathead Valley.

Handy-dandy global warming and the coming bad times!

I enjoyed reading Bob McClellan’s nonsensical letter (“Hurricane Sandy was wake-up call,” The Daily Inter Lake, Nov. 22). In his usual rambling, McClellan retreats to the man-made global warming mantra. No matter what the climate change is, the true believers blame it on man-made global warming. If it’s hot, it’s global warming. If it’s cold, it’s global warming. If it’s dry, it’s global warming. If it’s wet, it’s global warming. So of course, the same worn theory of man-made global warming must be dragged out to explain any climatic catastrophe, such as Hurricane Sandy. The only problem is ... it’s not true.

Flood-plain rule changes revived

A long-awaited overhaul of county flood-plain regulations has been revived and will be the focus of a public hearing Wednesday before the Flathead County Planning Board.

Karen Ann Collins, 72

Karen Ann Collins, 72, “received her wings” on Nov. 29, 2012, at her home in Kalispell.

Brannigan's Pub opens downtown

If you’ve ever been to an Irish pub, you know there’s nothing quite like the atmosphere of a good one.

'A Christmas Carol,' with Republicans in role of Scrooge

Every Christmas millions of Americans watch the story of an overworked struggling father named Bob Cratchit. He works day and night everyday but still can’t afford to put a Christmas dinner on the table or provide health care for his son Tiny Tim, whose future is doomed to either death or deformity. Bob puts up with abuse from a calloused boss by the name of Ebenezer Scrooge because he is afraid of losing his job and not being able to provide for his family.

Australians aim for transocean flight

Two Australian men are trying to fly a Piper Aztec out of Kalispell City Airport and get the plane and themselves back home thousands of miles away.

Panel may readjust water plan

After hearing from the public at a dozen meetings, the Montana Reserved Water Rights Compact Commission is likely to make adjustments to a proposed water rights compact for the Flathead Indian Reservation, an attorney for the commission said.

President's plan panned - Do the numbers add up in emergency budget proposal?

President Obama is continuing his campaign rhetoric, repeating that we need a balanced approach to our country’s fiscal demise.

Daybook

The fiscal cliff and our future

Here we are, Americans, peering over the edge of the much-talked about fiscal cliff.

Taking flight

With his powered paraglider, Dennis Boultinghouse of Kalispell can soar thousands of feet into the air or glide barely above the ground.

Faraway soldiers devour gifts of magazines

For five years, Donna Chase of Lakeside has fed a never-ending magazine hunger among troops in remote areas ranging from Afghanistan to the decks of aircraft carriers and destroyers.

Man enjoys high-flying freedom with powered paraglider

What’s that up in the north Kalispell sky?

Flathead Girls Lose to Great Falls

Flathead junior Emma Andrews (10) makes a run for the basket during the game against Great Falls on Saturday, December 8, in Kalispell. Flathead lost the game 47-56.

Snow hinders drivers

Agencies across Flathead Valley were kept busy responding to crashes due to severe winter weather.

John D. Hanger, 91

John D. Hanger, a World War II veteran, left his earthly body behind on Friday, Dec. 7, 2012, Pearl Harbor Day, with his family at his side. He was 91 years old.

Chemical weapons in Syria? Just imagine that!

Last week, the world was told that Syria’s President Bashar Assad is poised to use chemical weapons against his own people in a last-ditch effort to retain power despite his growing unpopularity.

Helen Carolyn 'Carol' Biller Phillips, 90

Helen Carolyn “Carol” Biller Phillips was born Aug. 16, 1922, and passed away in Kalispell on Nov. 27, 2012, at the age of 90.

23rd Annual Christmas at Our House

Karon Burningham of Kalispell smiles as she makes her way through the food line at the 23rd Annual Christmas at Our House on Saturday, December 8, at the Montana National Guard Armory. One hundred and fifty volunteers helped out with the event. According to Denise Nalty they hoped to serve 4500 people. Food included 65 turkeys, 45 hams, 60 gallons of gravy, 400 gallons of mashed potatoes, 400 gallons of stuffing, 125 gallons of green bean casserole, 4000 dinner rolls and 125 pies.

Wolfpack ladies rally by CMR

Glacier Nationals blank Vancouver

VANCOUVER, Wash. — Glacier Nationals goaltender Taylor Hulslander stopped 27 shots in his first start of the season as the Nationals shutout the last-place Vancouver Vipers 4-0 Friday at Mountain View Rink.

Buzzer-beaters send Glacier boys past CMR in OT

Mining City Duals: Flathead grapplers in championship round

NW/SW Tipoff: C-Falls boys spill Anaconda

NW/SW Tipoff: C-Falls girls blow out Anaconda

Hudson Louis Anton Barbieri

Hudson Louis Anton Barbieri, son of Michael and Merika Barbieri of Whitefish, was born Oct. 25 at North Valley Hospital.

Tristen Mathu Staats

Tristen Mathu Staats, son of William and Rebecca Staats of Elmo, was born Sept. 16 at North Valley Hospital.

Elsie Malia Rae Christensen

Elsie Malia Rae Christensen, daughter of Shawn and Nia Christensen of Kalispell, was born May 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Mountain opens with 12 ski runs

Whitefish Mountain Resort opens for its 65th winter season today with two lifts, 12 runs and reduced lift ticket prices.

Montessori students learn heart smarts

Gasps of awe and revulsion filled a room at Kalispell Montessori Elementary School recently when a large cow heart was displayed before sixth-graders.

1 killed, 1 hurt in Dixon

Tucker Michael Komrosky

Tucker Michael Komrosky, son of Drew and Stacey Komrosky of Kalispell, was born Oct. 26 at North Valley Hospital.

Elijah James Schlund

Elijah James Schlund, son of Katelyn Schlund of Trego, was born Sept 15 at North Valley Hospital.

Principal pitching in for distant school

Eureka Elementary School Principal Cari Lucey is more than 3,000 miles away building a school in the Dominican Republic.

Eli Christian Nicklaus

Eli Christian Nicklaus, son of Randy and Jessica Nicklaus of Kalispell, was born Oct. 25 at North Valley Hospital.

Graysen Snedigar

Graysen Snedigar, son of Michael and Trina Snedigar of Kalispell, was born Sept. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Autumn Hunter

Autumn Hunter, daughter of Ryan and Eve Hunter of Whitefish, was born Oct. 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Daybook

Laird Gray Averill

Laird Gray Averill, son of Fabienne and Brian Averill, was born Sept. 19 at North Valley Hospital.

Woman fears for unknown cat rescuer

An extremely concerned woman called the

Weston Raykowski

Weston Raykowski, son of Brian and Rosemary Raykowski, was born Sept. 22 at North Valley Hospital.

Olivia Sterling Abel

Olivia Sterling Abel, daughter of Jeremy Abel and Amanda Ray, was born Sept. 17 at North Valley Hospital.

Case Banning Payne

Case Banning Payne, son of Jim and Tami Payne of Whitefish, was born Oct. 23 at North Valley Hospital.

Casey Patrick Johnson

Casey Patrick Johnson, son of Devon and Emily Johnson of Kalispell, was born Sept. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

Allena Patricia Davis

Allena Patricia Davis, daughter of  Jordan Davis and Amanda Jennum of Kalispell, was born Sept. 20 at North Valley Hospital.

Karrie Harper

Karrie Harper, daughter of Steven Harper and Jenna Westphal of Kalispell, was born Oct. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Chevella Rose Iverson

Chevella Rose Iverson, daughter of Jerome Iverson and Trisha Lincoln of Columbia Falls, was born Sept 17 at North Valley Hospital.

Carter Alan Crosswhite

Carter Alan Crosswhite, son of Doug Crosswhite and Whisper Sellars of Hungry Horse, was born Oct. 24 at North Valley Hospital.

Glacier Girls Beat Great Falls CM Russell

Glacier's Rachel Chery, 5, pushes past a C.M. Russell defender during their game on Friday night in Kalispell. Glacier won the match up 49-43.

Judge orders statewide recount

Appeal to Supreme Court promised

Flathead County District Court Judge Stewart Stadler ruled Friday that a statewide recount is warranted for the state Superintendent of Public Instruction race, but a state attorney told Stadler his ruling would be appealed to the Supreme Court Monday.

Sandy Welch

Candidate Sandy Welch is pictured Friday afternoon in Flathead County District Court. A recount for the state Superintendent of Public Instruction race was ordered by Flathead District Judge Stewart Stadler.

Simply Sweet Serenity

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Carol Lane owner of Simply Sweet Serenity in Evergreen. Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012 in Evergreen, Montana.

Brannigan's Pub

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Bartender Chance Cole talks with customers Friday morning at Brannigan's Pub in Kalispell. Friday, Dec. 7, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Northwest-Southwest Tip-off Tournament at Corvallis, Hamilton

The annual Northwest-Southwest Class A Tip-off Tournament begin today with Corvallis hosting the boys basketball action and the girls playing in Hamilton.

AA boys basketball: Flathead, Glacier open season with road games

Flathead and Glacier each reached the semifinals of the Class AA boys basketball state tournament a year ago, but the two Kalispell schools enter this season with differing expectations.

AA girls basketball: Wolfpack, Bravettes geared up for openers

Totally revamped and overhauled, both the Glacier and Flathead girls basketball teams come into this season with a clean slate.

Libby wrestlers whip Bonners Ferry, 61-24

LIBBY — The Libby wrestling team tallied seven pins in a 61-24 dual win over Bonners Ferry, Idaho.

Sentinel grapplers trip Glacier in dual

MISSOULA — Glacier wrestling suffered it’s first dual loss of the season on Thursday, dropping a contest at Sentinel 50-31.

Big Sky pins loss on visiting Flathead

MISSOULA — Flathead’s Gavyn Wilson, Tanner Fletcher, Jake Egley and Mitchell Stivers each pinned their opponents, but the Braves lost their dual against Missoula Big Sky 49-30 on Thursday.

Fired Walmart store manager sues company

The former manager of Kalispell’s Walmart store is suing the company, alleging wrongful discharge and slander.

Turns out, recording was illegal

A Swan River Road man in Bigfork was counseled after contacting the

Airport finds cheap fix for broken beacon

When the beacon at Kalispell City Airport broke in November, officials started bracing for a costly $7,500 replacement.

Escape from the flames

Woman recounts fire that destroyed home

Sherry Doyle is happy to be alive after escaping from a fire that destroyed her Kila home Wednesday.

Veteran's family gets a surprise new house

Wounded U.S. Army veteran Ryan Pengelly, who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, uncovered a home rendering poster Thursday to learn that Operation Finally Home had selected him to receive the organization’s first house.

Daybook

Taylor is example for us all

One of our own who has affected so many of us is Taylor Peterson of Columbia Falls.

Kila fire

Sherry Doyle carries bags of food and home items away from a private charity on Thursday in Kalispell.

Operation Finally Home

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Tyler Frank, right, of Kramer Enterprises points out features of the Pengellys' new house Thursday afternoon. Thursday, Dec. 6, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Whitefish Review

Author Rick Bass, front left, and Missoula-based Stellarondo will perform at the release party for Whitefish Review's 12th issue Dec. 13.

First Night Flathead

Tickets to First Night Flathead, the annual family-friendly, alcohol-free New Year's Eve gala in downtown Kalispell, go on sale Dec. 14.

'A Festival of Lights'

Anna Stone, president of the Flathead High School choir, created this graphic for the choir's "A Festival of Lights" concert Dec. 11. The piece features a menorah in the shape of a Christmas tree surrounded by snowflakes and stars of David.

Storyhill

Bozeman-based folk duo Storyhill will perform in Kalispell Dec. 13.

John Floridis

Missoula guitarist John Floridis will perform a benefit concert for Neighbors in Need in Whitefish Dec. 15.

Lakeside Christmas Tree

Tobi Campanella of Lakeside added lights to this small evergreen to create this post-sunset silhouette against the mountains on Wednesday night, December 5, at Flathead Lake.

Connor Lime

Connor Lime, son of Daron and Brittany Lime of Kalispell, was born Sept. 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Beckett Anderson

Beckett Anderson, son of Tyrel and Leanne Anderson of Kalispell, was born Sept. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Domestic fight leads to pursuit, arrest

Dante Henderson

Dante Henderson, son of Devin Henderson and Amaliya Weisler of San Diego, was born Sept 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Early influenza season predicted

Flathead City-County Health  Department officials echoed warnings of an early, hard-hitting flu season from the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention as well as from state health officials.

Madelyn Vaughn

Christmas tree sparks fire in Kila home

A Christmas tree didn’t give a Kila resident a very happy holiday after sparking a trailer fire on Fichters Way.

Jordyn Rachelle Linder

Jordyn Rachelle Linder, daughter of Jordan and Karri Linder, was born Sept. 30 at North Valley Hospital.

Man dies after fall from second floor

A 62-year-old Whitefish man is dead after falling out of a second-story window at his Rest Haven Drive home on Nov. 29.

Ski resort to open up on Saturday

Ski season begins Saturday at Whitefish Mountain Resort, with the best skiing and snowboarding to be found on the back side of Big Mountain.

Wind, accident create problems with power

A downed power pole and wind damage from blustery weather throughout the day affected power for roughly 2,500 Flathead Electric Co-op members Wednesday.

Harper Sundvahl

Harper Sundvahl, daughter of Quinten and Jessica Sundvahl of Lakeside, was born Sept. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Elizabeth Licht

Elizabeth Licht, daughter of Nicholas and Courtney Licht of Kalispell, was born Sept. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Oakley Rae Rindy

Oakley Rae Rindy, daughter of Ryder Rindy and Morgan Rowe of Columbia Falls, was born Sept. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

Lily Miner

Lily Miner, daughter of Reed and Annalee Miner of Columbia Falls, was born Sept. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

McKenzie Kay Corbett

McKenzie Kay Corbett, daughter of Scott and Kristy Corbett of Kalispell, was born Sept. 27 at North Valley Hospital.

Wyatt Baker McAfee

Wyatt Baker McAfee, son of Joe and Katie McAfee of Trego, was born Sept. 29 at North Valley Hospital.

Chocolate takes center stage

 Sixty feet of chocolate tables offered an amazing variety of delectable cakes, cookies, pies, and confections at the 28th annual Republican Women’s Chocolate Extravaganza Wednesday at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kalispell.

Bo Robert Butler

Bo Robert Butler, son of Jason and Holly Buutler of Kalispell, was born Sept. 28 at North Valley Hospital.

Isabelle Burgi

Isabelle Burgi, daughter of Daniel and Julianne Burgi of Kalispell, was born Sept. 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Ryland Jameson Lennick

Ryland Jameson Lennick, son of Aaron and Kat Lennick of Columbia Falls, was born Sept. 26 at North Valley Hospital.

Park still faces many challenges

After four years at the helm of Glacier National Park, Superintendent Chas Cartwright is parting with some enlightening reflections on the challenges the park faces in the future.

Turnout for teen raises more than $50,000

‘An amazing outpouring of support’

The outpouring of support for 17-year-old Taylor Peterson has been, in a word, extraordinary.

Living-donor liver transplant a success

Sister comes to the rescue

Ronda Heil was sick and she needed a liver. Hers was failing. And without one, she was going to die.

Helen Carolyn 'Carol' Biller Phillips, 90

Golden Eagle Falconry

In this photo taken Thursday, Sept. 13, 2012, Scott Simpson teases his golden eagle Maggie with a dead rat during her first training session of the season north of Casper, Wyo. After keeping her indoors all summer, Simpson tethers her feet for the first few outings until she becomes accustomed to returing to his fist when called. (AP Photo/Casper Star-Tribune, Alan Rogers)

Chorale performs 'Messiah' at 3 venues

Hallelujah

Taylor Peterson and friends

Taylor Peterson, center, poses for a picture with family friends Kassie, right, and Oakley during a benefit dinner on Sunday at Tien’s Place in Columbia Falls.

Liver donor

Sarah Gardner, right, donated 68 percent of her liver to her sister Ronda Heil. They are pictured Tuesday afternoon at Gardner’s home south of Kalispell.

Christmas show to aid children's theater

Guitarist plays Neighbors in Need benefit show

Folk duo in concert at KM Theatre

Flathead choirs perform holiday concert

Singer-songwriter gears up for album release

Kids can audition for 'Charlotte's Web'

Flathead High stages four comedy shows

Actors wanted for FVCC show

Limited tickets for Crush Wine Bar party

Writer, band head Whitefish Review release party

First Night Flathead offers family fun on New Year's Eve

Artists sought for wilderness program

Studio becomes Santa's workshop

Conrad Mansion plans holiday events

Painter leads Crits and Croissants

Marjory Roberta (Bowers) Bacon, 88

Chocolate Extravaganza

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake This Charlie Brown Christmas Cake made by Kari Lincoln took Best in Show for the Amateur category Wednesday afternoon at the Chocolate Extravaganza held at the Hilton Garden Inn. Wednesday, Dec. 5, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Kalispell renews cable franchise deal

Kalispell will see its Channel 9 government access TV station remain among basic cable offerings for at least three more years.

Two charged after fight involving guns

A pair of Kalispell-area residents face felony charges after an argument apparently turned into a raucous fight on Patrick Creek Road.

Hazmat drill planned in Whitefish

The BNSF rail yard in Whitefish will be the site of a full-scale simulated hazardous materials incident on Tuesday.

Private aerial rescue group takes off

A year after its inception, the FEAR organization is growing by leaps and bounds.

County prosecutor picked as new municipal judge

The Kalispell City Council on Monday appointed Lori Adams to serve as the city’s next Municipal Court judge.

Bigfork pleads to keep green box site

County planning consolidation with Lakeside

A very determined group of Bigfork residents told the Flathead County Solid Waste Board on Monday they will do whatever it takes to keep a green-box refuse site in their community.

Appraisals vex landfill neighbors

Several property owners whose land is targeted for future county landfill expansion say they’re upset with recent appraisals they believe don’t reflect the true value of their property.

Fire damages Creston home

A quick-thinking home-owner kept a fire from engulfing even more of his home through the judicious use of a garden hose late Monday night.

Daybook

Grizzly managers look toward hunting in Rockies

With bear-human conflicts on the rise, wildlife managers in the Northern Rockies are laying the groundwork for trophy hunts for grizzly bears in anticipation of the government lifting their threatened species status.

Driver 'parks' in yard unintentionally

The

Whitefish microbrewery, inn put on hold

Marcile Margaret 'Sammie' Eklund, 86

 Born Marcile DeBruyn in Everett, Wash., Sammie grew up in Seattle and on Whidbey Island where her father organized the first farmer cooperatives for carrying island produce to market and was a leader in the push to build the Deception Pass Bridge.

Duane B. Appel, 84

Duane B. Appel, 84, passed away on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2012, at the Montana Veterans Home under the wonderful loving care of the VA staff.

Geese

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake A lone snow goose walks among several Canada geese Monday afternoon at Village Greens Golf Course in Kalispell. Monday, Dec. 3, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.

Desert Mountain Brewing

Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Desert Mountain Brewing owner Shawn Christensen, left, and marketing director Matt Hicks unwrap one of the five new fermentation tanks Monday morning at the brewery in Columbia Falls. Christensen plans to begin brewing beer at the start of the new year. Monday, Dec. 3, 2012 in Columbia Falls, Montana.

Landfill board meeting

Marty Puryer Jr. expresses his concerns about the planned landfill expansion Monday afternoon during a Flathead County Solid Waste Board meeting. “We have been fighting this for a year and a half. It is very emotional,” Puryer said.

F.E.A.R. Helicopter

A member of the Flathead Nordic Ski Patrol looks out the window of the Bell 407 helicopter on Saturday, November 17. First responders from Flathead Nordic Ski Patrol and Flathead County Search and Rescue went on short flights on Saturday as part of training for the upcoming avalanche season.

Leonard Powell, 91

Daybook

Class A football: Polson lands 6 players on all-state team

Northwestern A regular season champion Polson had six players named to the Class A All-State football team in balloting done by state coaches.

Troublemakers make a mess in Somers

Flathead volunteers served Sandy victims

Candidate files request for recount in court

Kalispell man killed in crash near Avon

Libby soldier wounded by Afghanistan bomb blast

Red Cross volunteers

Commissioners appoint board members

Pinterest

Week in Pictures: November 26 - December 2

Holden Leyton-Joseph York

Holden Leyton-Joseph York, son of Bill and Nicole York, was born Feb. 2 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Riley Vandekop

Riley Vandekop, daughter of Johnathan Vandekop and Kassandra Mills of Kalispell, was born Sept. 8 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Braylon and Brielle Zimbelman

Braylon and Brielle Zimbelman, son and daughter of Jon and Erin Zimbelman of Kalispell, were born Sept. 25 at North Valley Hospital.

Julie Keyes in 2010

Callee Peters

Callee Peters, daughter of Craig and Ashley Peters of Kila, was born Sept. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Parker Norbeck

Parker Norbeck, son of Andy and Amber Norbeck of Kalispell, was born Sept. 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Jebidiah Benjamin Utter

Jebidiah Benjamin Utter, son of Justin Utter and Jamie Hill of Columbia Falls, was born Sept. 26 at North Valley Hospital.

Steele Gislason

Steele Gislason, son of Eric and Kendall Gislason of Whitefish, was born Sept. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Harley Odom

Harley Odom, son of Harley and Summer Odom of Kalispell, was born Sept. 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Mandey Weiss

Mandey Weiss, daughter of Sebastian and Ashley Weiss of Kalispell, was born Sept. 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lincoln Frederick Horton

Lincoln Frederick Horton, son of Luke and Sarah Horton of Eureka, was born Sept. 21 at North Valley Hospital.

Rygg Roper

Rygg Roper, son of Jess and Danielle Roper of Kalispell, was born Sept. 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lillian Smith

Lillian Smith, daughter of Patrick Smith and Michaela Martin of Kalispell, was born Sept. 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Kaylee Faith Reis

Kaylee Faith Reis, daughter of John and Bry Reis of Kalispell, was born Sept. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Isaiah William Begay

Isaiah William Begay, son of Tawny Lynn Begay of Columbia Falls, was born Sept. 26 at North Valley Hospital.

Boxes of cheer

Local volunteers pack up gifts for troops overseas

Halfway around the world, a soldier opens a box postmarked Bigfork, releasing the scent of fresh evergreens and revealing a bounty of goodies such as beef jerky.

Relationships key for sports outfitter

Universal booster

Though you’ll find Dewey Michaels cheering for his oldest son, Bryan, at Glacier High School sporting events, you won’t see him wearing Glacier’s blue and green.

Swan River competes for grant

Swan River School in Bigfork needs help in voting for a chance to win a technology grant.

Busy year for development in Kalispell

Commercial projects spread throughout city

Kalispell is seeing a fairly strong array of development projects that will account for tens of millions of dollars of investment this year.

No fried chickens in coop fire

A chicken coop caught fire on Rocky Lane early Sunday morning. One of the chickens knocked over a heat lamp and started the fire, which the homeowner extinguished.

Keith John Learn, 67

Glacier swimmers break 6 records

Glacier swimmers broke six school records and a pair of newcomers also made some big waves in the season opening Kalispell Invitational at The Summit on Saturday.

Fraley, Perrin, Morley qualify for Foot Locker National Cross Country Championships

WALNUT, Calif. — Four Montana runners, including three from the Flathead Valley, qualified among the top 40 in the nation for the Foot Locker National Cross Country Championships on Saturday.

Flathead falls to Helena in final at Capital City Duals

HELENA — The Flathead wrestling team went 3-0 in the early rounds of the Capital City Duals before falling to Helena High 52-33 in the championship dual Saturday.

Wolfpack third, Polson 5th at wrestling invitational

POLSON — Led by Alek Mitchell’s first-place finish at 145 pounds, the defending Class AA state champion Glacier wrestling team garnered 143.5 points in a third-place finish at the Polson Invitational tournament Saturday.

A veteran's view: Readiness, honor, service, love of country

I was younger than many of the students here today when I enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1963. Serving in the Marines seared an indelible mark on my life and set into motion the events which formed me into the man I am today. I am proud to be called a Marine and a veteran, and it is truly an HONOR to be asked by the Whitefish Student Council to speak to you and to my fellow veterans today.

To Bakken bashers: Real people live here

A recent McClatchy-Tribune story that ran in the Daily Inter Lake, “Oil boom has downside for towns in the Bakken Shale,” had me wondering which TV fantasies the reporter had been watching — the towns and the people he described could have been easily lifted from “Deadwood” or “Gunsmoke” or any of the many shows that perpetuated myths about the Wild West and its lawless citizens.

Woman reports stolen chicken stock

A Pearl Harbor Bicycle: A child's memories of Dec. 7, 1941

I finished my paper route and was eating a cheeseburger and sipping a chocolate shake in the Bon Ton on Main Street in Polson, Montana, on Dec. 7, 1941, when the radio carried news of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor.

Doughnut dispute: Whitefish tries to keep councilman from talking

In the legal battle over control of Whitefish’s two-mile “doughnut,” the city of Whitefish has taken court action to prevent City Council member Chris Hyatt from talking about earlier negotiations between the city and Flathead County.

Special avalanche safety program scheduled on Tuesday evening

 The Flathead Avalanche Center will present a “special topics” avalanche safety program on Tuesday, Dec. 4. 

Fired up over gun industry

There are few opportunities for a small community like the Flathead Valley to get on the economic map, but we seem to be right on target to score a direct hit with at least one of those opportunities.

Daybook

Dispute sends man to prison for 10 years

A 46-year-old Lakeside man was finally sentenced Thursday in Flathead District Court after several continuances and an extension.

Energy storage firm expands work force

Though Zinc Air’s first out-of-facility installations of its power-storage batteries are a few months away, the company has been expanding so fast it is housing some of its engineers in a trailer behind its Columbia Falls-area building.

Eureka man in court to face fourth DUI

A 33-year-old Eureka man, Joshua Degeal, pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be his fourth offense of drunk driving.

Probing the past is new pastime

 Something has happened that I would never have thought possible back in high school when I was dozing off in Mr. Roos’ American History class. I have become a history nerd.

Phyllis Seeley Burroughs, 73

Phyllis Seeley Burroughs, 73, "went home to be with Jesus" on Wednesday, Nov. 21, 2012, at Health Center Northwest, surrounded by her family.

Eurozone: Evergreen store offers a host of Slavic selections

For the past three years, anyone looking for a bottle of kvass — a fermented non-alcoholic drink that tastes like beer and is made from rye bread — has only needed to drive to Evergreen and stop by the Deli of Europe.

Mary Louise Solberg, 79

Mary Louise Solberg, 79, passed away on Wednesday, Nov. 28, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell after a long battle with COPD.

Man denies weapon, drug charges

A 36-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony assault with a weapon and misdemeanor charges of possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.

Soldiers are gone but dinner will go on

Thanks to volunteers, the 495th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion of the Montana National Guard’s traditional Christmas at Our House dinner returns for its 23rd year on Saturday, Dec. 8.

Saving the mansion on the hill

Effort begins to preserve Somers landmark home

The yellow hilltop mansion that’s been a landmark in Somers for 109 years faces an uncertain future, but an effort is under way to preserve the historic home.

Cellphone ban is wrong approach to serious issue on the roads

I read the Nov. 28 Inter Lake article reporting on the Kalispell City Council’s consideration of a ban on handheld devices. Some interesting points were raised in the course of the discussion. The most pertinent, I think, is the question of how effective the ban would be.

Lincoln, compromise and the price to pay

This just in — compromise to a liberal really does mean compromising your principles, and you don’t have to believe me. Just read what liberal columnist David Brooks had to say about the new film “Lincoln”:

Volunteers box Christmas cheer for troops

A flurry of activity takes place at the Flathead Lake Lodge on Friday afternoon, November 30, as volunteers gather to help pack holiday boxes destined for three units in Afghanistan on Friday afternoon, November 30, as part of the Scott Vallely Soldiers Memorial Fund at Flathead Lake Lodge.

Scott Vallely Soldiers Memorial Fund

Danni Donkin, center, and her mother Tracey Donkin, right, both of Bigfork, help to pack holiday boxes destined for three units in Afghanistan on Friday afternoon, November 30, as part of the Scott Vallely Soldiers Memorial Fund at Flathead Lake Lodge.

Heart Dissection at Kalispell Montessori

Keller Mitchell colors in an outline of a heart on Friday, November 30, at Kalispell Montessori School.

Kalispell Montessori

From left, Jake Ritzdorf, Gretta Wisher, Maya Lacey, Grace Coen and Ellie Hawes take a closer look at a cow's heart on Nov. 30 at Kalispell Montessori Elementary School.

Monday Profile

Dewey Michaels deals with schools and youth sports programs throughout Northwest Montana as outside sales representative at Universal Athletics.

Kalispell Invitational Swim Meet

Glacier's Sara Burch swims the butterfly in the 200-yard medley relay Saturday afternoon during the Kalispell Invitational swim meet at The Summit. 

AA wrestling: Glacier, Flathead grapplers open season with wins

BUTTE — Glacier and Flathead each came away with season-opening wins in their duals at Butte on Friday night.

Stillwater rolls by Helena Christian

Josh Bray scored 26 points to lead Stillwater Christian’s basketball team to a 56-33 over Helena Christian in its season opener Friday at Stillwater High School.

A wrestling: Cats pin down Whitefish

WHITEFISH — The Columbia Falls wrestling team racked up seven pins in a 61-15 rout of rival Whitefish on Friday.