Tuesday, July 31
Twins taking second swing at state
You might say the Glacier Twins are viewing this as a second opportunity of sorts.
Evertz, Guckenberg, Holder named All State
Three local baseball players were named to the American Legion Class A All State team on Tuesday. Kootenai Valley’s Bryton Guckenberg and Ryan Holder and Mission Valley’s Justin Evertz made the 21-person team.
Ellison Maya Woods
Ellison Maya Woods, daughter of Ben Woods and Beth Ellison of Bigfork, was born April 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Jacob Haraldson
Jacob Haraldson, son of Craig and Jamie Haraldson of Kalispell, was born April 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Alexis Cox
Alexis Cox, daughter of Josh and Jennifer Cox of Kalispell, was born April 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Elezebeth Weber
Elezebeth Weber, daughter of Ty Weber and Kaitlyn Adams of Columbia Falls, was born April 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Annie Christiaens-Baker
Annie Christiaens-Baker, daughter of Ken Christiaens and Judy Baker of Kalispell, was born April 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Scout Marie Lindsay
Scout Marie Lindsay, daughter of Zach and Kimi Lindsay of Kalispell, was born April 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Sophia Price
Sophia Price, daughter of Marquie and James Price of Kalispell, was born April 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Justin Gabriel Shappell
Justin Gabriel Shappell, son of Adam and Erin Shappell of Kalispell, was born April 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Elise LynnAnn Bark
Elise LynnAnn Bark, daughter of Nathan and Vanessa Bark of Kalispell, was born April 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Taurean Love
Taurean Love, son of Taurean and Melissa Love of Kalispell, was born April 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jordan Briles
Jordan Briles, son of Jeremy and Kylie Briles of Kalispell, was born April 10 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ranger Eugene Hafer
Ranger Eugene Hafer, son of Tanner and Nevada Hafer of Kalispell, was born April 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Finneas Joseph Hendrix
Finneas Joseph Hendrix, son of Steve and Melissa Hendrix of Kalispell, was born April 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Obrielle Kristin Neils
Obrielle Kristin Neils, daughter of Greg and Cassie Neils of Whitefish, was born April 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Olivia Lillian Derozier
Olivia Lillian Derozier, daughter of Christopher and Nathalie Derozier of Kalispell, was born April 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Elijah Masson Broadway
Elijah Masson Broadway, son of Jared Broadway and Crystal Osborne, was born April 10 at North Valley Hospital.
Fire moves toward Benchmark
Highly active burning continued Tuesday in the Bob Marshall Wilderness, where the Elbow Creek Fire Complex was estimated at 6,000 acres and moving eastward toward the Benchmark recreation corridor.
Harper Adam Morrison
Harper Adam Morrison, son of Josh and Nikki Morrison of Kalispell, was born April 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Lyra Owens
Lyra Owens, daughter of Rick and Linnea Owens of Kalispell, was born April 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jaxon Olson
Jaxon Olson, son of Dylan Olson and Sierra Hiebert of Columbia Falls, was born April 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Sasha Ross Nelson
Sasha Ross Nelson, daughter of Clay and Heather Nelson of Whitefish, was born April 10 at North Valley Hospital.
Aiden Nicole Powell
Aiden Nicole Powell, daughter of Tyler and Aniqua Powell, was born April 5 at North Valley Hospital.
Sophia Binoche
Sophia Binoche, daughter of Christian and Katie Binoche of Bigfork, was born April 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kyler Compton
Kyler Compton, son of Chris Compton and Sarah Brew of Kalispell, was born April 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Isaak Lauria
Isaak Lauria, son of Dalton Lauria and Jacquelyn Edwards of Columbia Falls, was born April 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kylie Boucher
Kylie Boucher, daughter of Leo and Josie Boucher of Kalispell, was born April 5 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Starr Marie Yatchak
Starr Marie Yatchak, daughter of Alex Acevedo and Rosie Yatchak of Columbia Falls, was born April 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Max McKinley Russell
Max McKinley Russell, son of Nathan and Betsy Russell of Lakeside, was born April 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rachel Eileen Block
Rachel Eileen Block, daughter of Josh and Brooke Block, was born April 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Azalea Pettymeyers
Azalea Pettymeyers, daughter of Jubal and Krista Pettymeyers of Kalispell, was born April 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Robert Darryl Olson
Robert Darryl Olson, son of Kraig and Sheila Olson of Whitefish, was born April 4 at North Valley Hospital.
Growers back to shipping cherries
Flathead Lake Cherry Growers resumed the cherry harvest for the national market on Monday after a few days’ break to lessen the glut of fruit from a robust season — and to assess damage from a rainstorm.
UM QB to be charged with rape
Fun at Foy's
Tré Neether, 13, helps his brother Teagan, 2, onto an inflatable plane Tuesday afternoon at Foy’s Lake, a popular summer destination when the weather is hot.
Driver collides with railroad crossing arm
The
Timothy Andrew Veyna, 53
Robert A. Moak, 73
Robert Rudie Winter, 90
Longtime Kalispell resident and World War II veteran, Robert Rudie Winter, passed away on July 29, 2012, at the age of 90.
Trippons.com
Jakson Kreiser
Monday, July 30
Mariners crowned State A Legion baseball champs
GREAT FALLS — Mission Valley defeated Glasgow 11-3 and 13-4 on Monday to claim the Montana/Alberta Class A State American Legion baseball tournament title at Centene Stadium.
Porch, Mann, Johnston win Montana Junior Amateur golf titles
HELENA — Kalispell’s Ryan Porch and Tom Mann and Ryggs Johnston of Libby were wire-to-wire winners at the Montana Junior Amateur Championship at Bill Roberts Golf Course.
Lillian Price
Lillian Price, daughter of Douglas Price and Corean Thomas of Hungry Horse, was born April 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Zachary Schmid-Sommer
Zachary Schmid-Sommer, son of David and Kelsey Schmid-Sommer of Whitefish, was born April 2 at at North Valley Hospital.
Quinten James Richard Babcock
Quinten James Richard Babcock, son of Kyle Babcock and Lindsay Tilger of Kalispell, was born April 2 at North Valley Hospital.
J. Marie Buchholtz
J. Marie Buchholtz, daughter of Lyle and Marcie Buchholtz, was born April 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Zavier Isaia Bring
Zavier Isaia Bring, son of Bryce Bring and Rachel Gerber of Olney, was born April 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Grant Heidegger
Grant Heidegger, son of Matt and Mary Heidegger of Kalispell, was born April 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jayson Boots Saunders
Jayson Boots Saunders, son of Jerime Boots and Stacey Saunders of Kalispell, was born April 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Glenn Earl Smith, 82
Lester E. Smith, 91
Lose your jet ski? Call the sheriff's office
Rapid Creek Fire
The Rapid Creek Fire that was detected Sunday has merged with another fire and grown to more than 5,000 acres in the Bob Marshall Wilderness.
Olympic Gold
Harris Family
The Harris family poses for a picture at Grizzly Security. (From left) Andrew, Caleb, Greg, Tiger and Josh. Caleb became the fourth member of the family to play in the East-West Shrine Game last month in Great Falls. Greg played in it in 1971, followed by sons Tiger in 2004 and Josh in 2008.
Week in Pictures: July 23-29
Kyle Johnson
Kyle Johnson
No sign of hiker missing in Glacier Park
A search is under way in Glacier National Park for a 19-year man who failed to return from a day hike on Saturday.
Team USA Olympic Press Conference - Michael Phelps
USA gymnast's Parents reactions as they watch daughter (roller coaster ride)
Call Me Maybe - 2012 USA Olympic Swimming Team
Sunday, July 29
Porch, Mann, Johnston Junior Am golf leaders
HELENA — Ryan Porch and Tom Mann of Kalispell and Ryggs Johnston of Libby are first-day leaders in their respective age groups at the Montana Junior Amateur Championship golf tournament.
A State Legion Baseball: Mariners, Reds last 2 standing
GREAT FALLS — The Mission Valley Mariners and Glasgow Reds will play for the Class A State American Legion baseball tournament championship today at 10 a.m. at Centene Stadium.
AA State Legion Baseball: Twins face Billings Royals
The Glacier Twins will have the honor of closing out first-day play at the Montana/Alberta State AA American Legion baseball tournament on Wednesday at Memorial Park in Whitefish.
Ranger has covered every corner of the park
Kyle Johnson’s office is strewn with boots and other hiking gear, along with maps and books related to his real work area — Glacier National Park’s backcountry.
'Back to the Future': Reviving progress from 50 years ago
Car show embraces all makes, models
The main rule about the Evergreen Show and Shine is that there are no rules.
Rollover occurs near courthouse
Officers with the
Wilderness fire grows rapidly to 500 acres
Kalispell chip-seal work starts Monday
Work is scheduled Monday and Tuesday on Kalispell’s annual chip-seal project, city officials said.
Bear specialist receives conservation award
State grizzly bear management specialist Tim Manley has been selected as the first recipient of the Bud Moore Conservation Award.
Swap meet, RV park still at odds over volume
The latest round in an ongoing dispute between Glacier Peaks RV Park and the neighboring Midway Swap Meet over the volume of concerts held at the meet took place Thursday in Flathead District Court.
County planning for new building at fairgrounds
Flathead County officials may soon proceed with construction of a new building at the county fairgrounds to house the offices of Montana State University extension agents and the Agency on Aging.
SmartLam stymied by SillyState
It was disheartening to learn that the state of Montana’s priorities seem to be misplaced when it comes to spending taxpayer money to boost the local economy.
Avail-TVN a leader in digital media services
As the Olympic games unfold in London, a digital media services company founded in the Flathead Valley nearly a decade ago has a key role in connecting television viewers to the games.
Why unions are hurting our economy
In response to Bill Breen’s letter in which he laments the failure of Wisconsin’s governor’s recall and the supposed fact that Americans are the lowest paid workers in all of the world’s industrial nations, I’m not convinced in the least that what he states is accurate.
Major drug dealer enters guilty plea
A 27-year-old Whitefish man pleaded guilty July 19 during U.S. District Court proceedings in Missoula to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Take a hard look in mirror
By GLEN HOOK
Be prepared to act when needed
I read a quote once that amounted to the fact that if you don’t decide beforehand to do the right thing when it matters, then when presented with the opportunity, you will likely do nothing.
Reunion let us remember 'way we were'
I’ve been awash with nostalgia since returning from the all-school reunion in Hawley, Minn. a few weeks ago. The reunion coincided with the town’s 140th anniversary, so it meant big “doings.”
Daybook
Red Bus Tour with Bill Trimble
Glacier National Park's Big Red Bus Tours have been running since 1936. Red Bus jammer Bill Trimble shares his story and a look at a day in his life.
Saturday, July 28
Man killed after kayak overturns
A 73-year-old Boise, Idaho man is dead after his kayak overturned in the Swan River Saturday evening.
Riding the Reds - Passengers come together for ultimate park experience
On any given day, the visitors who climb aboard Glacier National Park’s red buses offer a colorful cross-section of life.
State A Legion baseball: Loggers, Mariners stay in the hunt
GREAT FALLS — Libby and Mission Valley posted loser-out victories on Saturday to keep their quests alive for a championship trophy at the Class A State American Legion baseball tournament.
Peeping Tom spotted in Whitefish
The
Romance of the 'Reds' - Longtime bus driver still in love with the job
More than a half century ago, Bill Trimble showed up for his summer job in Glacier National Park and took the driver’s seat of a red bus.
An American hero from another world - 1962
The past couple of weeks I have been exploring how America in the 1950s and ’60s had a chance to stop the juggernaut of bigger government from crushing the spirit of free enterprise, and for the most part missed the opportunity.
Vicki Jeanne (Hall) Price, 52
Vicki Jeanne (Hall) Price, 52, “passed into Heaven” on July 24, 2012, at her home in San Luis Obispo, Calif., due to heart failure.
Judy Paro, 59
Judy Paro, 59, passed away on Tuesday, July 24, 2012, at Brendan House in Kalispell, after a brief battle with cancer.
Jim W. Jensen, 78
Jim W. Jensen, 78, “went to our Father” on July 25, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Heritage Days
Donald Reynolds sits on a McCormick diesel tractor Saturday afternoon before the Heritage Days parade in Columbia Falls Saturday, July 28, 2012 in Columbia Falls, Montana. (Reprints of this photo are available at
Special map sales raise money for lake station
The University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station and the Flathead Lakers have collaborated with a Missoula-based map making company to create a unique, artistic rendition of Flathead Lake to benefit the biological station.
Boogie to the Bank
First-place finisher Troy Fraley eyes the finish line Saturday morning during the Boogie to the Bank 5K run in Columbia Falls. Saturday, July 28, 2012 in Columbia Falls, Montana.
Relocated grizzly in trouble... again
A grizzly bear that recently was moved from the Lincoln area to the North Fork Flathead drainage has showed up for trouble again, this time in a neighborhood about 10 miles north of Whitefish off U.S. 93.
Aiming for the Olympics
Recent Glacier High School graduate Alana Townsend wants a shot at a spot on the U.S. Olympic shooting team.
Grant boosts Kalispell's core area revitalization plan
Kalispell’s ongoing work to draft a core area revitalization plan for its run-down railroad corridor got a $31,500 boost in July from a grant from the Montana Department of Commerce.
Daybook
Art auction on Aug. 3 will benefit Wounded Warriors
The Glacier Gala, an art auction and benefit for Wounded Warriors, will be held Aug. 3 at Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish.
Flaget keeps bantamweight championship at Kalispell Kombat
Fighting in the first title bout of the night, Kalispell’s Duran Flaget dominated Billings’ Ryan Ferguson to defend his bantamweight belt at Fightforce’s Kalispell Kombat mixed martial arts fights on Friday.
Friday, July 27
Kalispell Kombat
Straight Blast Gym's Randy Kopchinsky (left) blocks a kick by Dallas Knelsen Friday night during Kalispell Kombat at Majestic Valley Arena. Kopchinsky won by split decision.
Libby, Mission Valley bounce back at state baseball tourney
GREAT FALLS — Libby (30-25) and Mission Valley (47-7) regrouped from tough opening-round losses on Thursday with some lopsided loser-out victories on Friday at the Class A State American Legion baseball tournament.
Vicki Jeanne (Hall) Price, 52
Flathead Valley hosts final motocross race of season on Sunday
The final stop for the High Country Motocross Association race season is Sunday at Dairyland MX Park.
Jim W. Jensen, 78
Martha Rowlan, 94
Martha Rowlan, 94, of Whitefish, died Wednesday, July 25, 2012, at Heritage Place Assisted Living from natural causes.
Neighbor dispute reaches sheriff
Deputies with the
Youth makes quick recovery from injuries
On Friday morning, Caleb Kingery looked like any other happy, energetic 10-year-old boy.
Lynne Marko, 67
Lynne Marko, 67, passed away on July 11, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, after a brief fight with cancer.
Richard LaMonte Gaertner, 91
Richard LaMonte Gaertner, 91, died Thursday, July 26, 2012, while in comfort care with loving staff at the Montana State Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Judy Paro, 59
Lynn Marko, 67
Fireworks survivor
Caleb Kingery was with his mother, Monica, at Hawthorn Park on Friday, July 27, in Kalispell.
Nick Mowrer - United States Olympic Shooting Team
Thursday, July 26
James E. Madden, 68
James E. Madden, 68, of Martin City, passed away Tuesday, July 24, 2012, at home in Martin City.
Richard 'Dick' Harry Dubbs, 89
Richard “Dick” Harry Dubbs, 89, passed away on Sunday, July 22, 2012, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell.
Schweikert to spread it around at C-Falls
New Columbia Falls’ head football coach Jax Schweikert will be looking to pick up the pace for the Wildcats this season.
Three title fights on Kalispell Kombat card
Undefeated through his first four mixed martial arts fights, Kalispell’s Gus Nolte will be fighting for the Fightforce 185-pound title tonight at Kalispell Kombat at the Majestic Valley Arena.
Tough day for Libby, Mission Valley at State A baseball tournament
GREAT FALLS — Laurel (46-15-1) rallied for four runs in the bottom of the eighth inning to slip by Libby 17-13 in first-round action Thursday at the State A American Legion baseball tournament.
Man charged with shooting at son
A 47-year-old Creston man is in jail after allegedly firing at his son with a shotgun, striking him in the face either with shot, a ricochet, a rock or other debris.
Kalispell man pleads guilty to heroin charge
A 24-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to possessing heroin with the intent to distribute.
Somers from the air
U.S. 93 winds along Flathead Lake in this aerial view.
Kalispell booster clubs split
The Flathead/Glacier Booster Club has split. The unanimous decision to separate into two clubs — made by the Flathead/Glacier Booster Club in the spring — is a move to boost membership, donations, ideas and interest in serving as board members.
Swimmer strokes across Flathead Lake
Mark Gilbertson’s “big swim” across Flathead Lake may have been the most physically demanding feat he has ever pursued.
Guns, gangs and garden gnomes
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office received a report from a Hungry Horse resident who said they had seen at least five automatic weapons in the home of a person whom they believed was hiding the guns for a motorcycle gang trying to start a club in Hungry Horse.
Skate Session
Levi Reoch, 14, center, of Saskatchewan makes an attempt to land a trick at Dave Olseth Memorial Skate Park in Whitefish on July 20.
FVCC Children's Summer Theatre
Kolby Broderick, right, plays the part of the Wolf in the dress rehearsal of A Bagful of Fables on Thursday afternoon, July 26, at FVCC Children's Summer Theatre. In the background is Grace Dunehoff as one of the sheep.
Under Construction, 1911.
National Park Service; Glacier National Park Archives/Unknown Photographer Glacier Park Lodge under construction, shows huge logs used for construction of hotel, with wagons and part of frame structure of building in 1911.
East Side of Glacier Park Lodge
National Park Services; Glacier National Park Archives/Photo by Marble, R.E. View of the front (east side) of the Glacier Park Lodge with landscaped ground in foreground and four Blackfoot Indians tipis set up on lawn. Located in East Glacier, circa 1920.
East Glacier Park Depot and Glacier Park Lodge
National Park Services; Glacier National Park Archives/Photo by Marble, R.E. Gate at East Glacier Park depot and Glacier Park Lodge, circa 1914.
Downstairs Lounge
National Park Services; Glacier National Park Archives/Photo by Marble, R.E. Downstairs lounge in Glacier Park Lodge, circa 1914.
Open Campfire, Glacier Park Lodge
National Park Services; Glacier National Park Archives/Photo by Marble, R.E. Interior view of open fire in lobby of Glacier Park Hotel at East Glacier, circa 1920. The several guests and Indian Chief were posed for the photo.
Glacier Park Lodge Lobby, 1940
National Park Service; Glacier National Park Archives/Photo by Hileman, T.J. Glacier Park Lodge lobby in 1940. From desk on the left with fern in the foreground.
Tour Buses in front of Glacier Park Lodge
National Park Service; Glacier National Park Archives/Photo by Hileman, T.J. Tour buses parked in front of Glacier Park Lodge (Hotel), 1940. Four Blackfeet and other visitors stand out front.
Construction, 1911-1912
National Park Service; Glacier National Park Archives/Dick Greenshields collection Glacier Park Lodge under construction, 1911-1912. View looks west, shows main portion of lodge (without later additions) fairly complete.
Glacier Park Lodge Dining Room
National Park Service; Glacier National Park Archives/Unknown Photographer Glacier Park Lodge dining room, circa 1914.
Glacier Park Lodge Panorama
National Park Service; Glacier National Park Archives/Unknown Photographer Panorama of Glacier Park Lodge, 1914.
Check in
Guests check in to the Glacier Park Lodge at the counter in the lobby on July 23. The lobby and dining room ware opened to guests on June 15, 1913.
Glacier Park Lodge Lobby
The view from the lobby facing the restaurant in the Glacier Park Lodge, the Great Northern.
Gateway to splendor
The expansive lobby is the distinctive centerpiece of the Glacier Park Lodge. Sixty massive logs, each 36 to 42 inches in diameter and 40 feet long, support the historic hotel.
West Side of Glacier Park Lodge
The west side of the main portion of Glacier Park Lodge on July 23.
Glacier Park Lodge
The front of the Glacier Park Lodge in East Glacier on July 23.
Mike Delaney
University of Montana football coach Mick Delaney talks to reporters Thursday in Missoula. UM is extending Delaney's contract through the 2013 season.
UM extends Delaney's coaching contract
MISSOULA — The University of Montana announced Thursday that it has removed the interim tag from football coach Mick Delaney’s title and given him a two-year deal to lead an embattled program caught up in an investigation of how the university as a whole handled allegations of sexual assault.
Father, two children fine after boat sinks
A man and his two children escaped unscathed when their boat sank while they were fishing on Flathead Lake late Tuesday morning.
New cookbook feeds body and soul
A new cookbook from the Samaritan House homeless shelter raises the bar for home-grown fundraiser publications.
Man arrested on warrants after incident at apartments
A 30-year-old Kalispell man was arrested Wednesday morning after he was seen firing an imitation firearm that initially was believed to be an assault rifle.
State aims to harvest wind-blown Swan timber
Officials at the Swan River State Forest are pulling together a rapid effort to salvage timber that was blown down in a severe storm June 26.
Highline Trail opening
The popular Highline Trail at Logan Pass is anticipated to be open by Friday and possibly earlier, according to officials at Glacier National Park.
Canola is treat for eye, economy
Flathead Valley residents and visitors alike have had the visual pleasure of seeing an upswing in canola production this year. The eye-appealing yellow fields of flowering canola soon will give way to harvest, giving growers an economic boost.
Daybook
Lakers AA take two from Twins
The Kalispell Lakers AA swept the Glacier Twins AA in the final two games of their regular season, taking both ends of a doubleheader at Griffin Field on Wednesday. The Lakers got on the board early in both games, scoring big in the early innings.
Wednesday, July 25
Sawyer James Eacker
Sawyer James Eacker, son of Anthony Eacker and Monica Taylor, was born March 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Mary Hannah Smith
Mary Hannah Smith, daughter of Josh and Judy Smith of Whitefish, was born March 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Myles Samuel Schott
Myles Samuel Schott, son of Brian and Lyndsay Schott of Whitefish, was born March 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Lincoln James Reynolds
Lincoln James Reynolds, son of Justin and Rebecca Reynolds of Columbia Falls, was born March 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Kaden Michael Bee
Kaden Michael Bee, son of Benny and Darlene Bee of Whitefish, was born March 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Cherry harvest off to sweet start
Gigantic, sweet red cherries are starting to come off trees around Flathead Lake as the annual cherry harvest gets under way.
Imaginary dog apparently strayed
A Kalispell resident got a surprise when he returned home from camping to find a notice on his door advising him that he had violated the “dog at large” ordinance. He was surprised because he does not own a dog. He reported the incident to the
Lethbridge kayaker drowns in river
A 50-year-old Lethbridge, Alberta, man drowned Tuesday after capsizing in the Spruce Park Rapids on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River.
Greg Fullerton
Greg Fullerton looks into a box full of bees in Babb. Fullerton's father Bob Fullerton began keeping bees in the 1970s.
Bees at Work
Bees surround the queen bee on a frame pulled out of a box in Babb on July 23. Each bee can produce about half a teaspoon of honey over the course of their lifetime.
Keeping Bees
Courtney Fullerton pulls out a frame full of honey in the warehouse at Glacier County Honey Company in Babb on July 23.
Glacier County Honey Company
Courtney Fullerton pours wax into a candle mold in Babb on July 23. In addition to candles Glacier County Honey Company sells honey, beeswax, gift baskets and more on their website.
Bear Grass
Hikers pass some bear grass along the trail on July 24 in the Swan Mountain Range. Guides are knowledgeable about the surrounding plants and landmarks along the hikes.
Lunch Break
Lunch is provided during day hikes by the Swan Mountain Outfitters and gives the llamas a break and time to snack themselves.
Swan Mountain Range
Ashley Arment leads a llama along a day hike with the Mission Mountain Range in the background on July 24 in the Swan Mountain Range.
Day Hike
Swan Mountain Outfitter guide Chris Schuler leads a group of hikers along a day hike with four llamas packed with lunch. A number of different llama treks are available through the Swan Mountain Outfitters.
On the Trail
Llama trekking guide Chris Schuler says llamas need a short break for every eight minutes of hiking. A llama will stop and lay down if it is overworked and over heats.
Packing the Llama
Llamas can be packed with a load up to 80 pounds while on hikes. Swan Mountain Outfitters try to keep the load to an average of 40 pounds per llama.
Trekking with a Guide
A guide for five years, Chris Schuler points to landmarks during one of the breaks on a llama trek on July 24 in the Swan Mountain Range.
Prepping for the Trek
Swan Mountain Outfitters guide Chris Schuler unloads llamas for a trek on July 24 in the Swan Mountain Range.
Lakers Twins Baseball
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Kalispell Lakers' Dillon Matteson slides safely into home plate to put the Lakers up by three in the first inning Wednesday evening during the first game of a Lakers Twins doubleheader at Griffin Field. Wednesday, July 25, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Cajun Street Dance brings Zydeco to Somers
The Somers Cajun Street Dance took place July 21. The event featured food and drink vendors, as well as Zydeco and blues music. The street dance was a fundraiser for the Somers Company Town Project, which seeks to preserve Somers and promote the town's history in the development of the Flathead Valley.
Stumptown Players explore the single life with 'Looking'
In keeping with its summer tradition of high comedy, Stumptown Players presents “Looking” by Canadian playwright Norm Foster beginning Wednesday.
Whitefish Gallery Nights returns Aug. 2
Whitefish’s downtown art galleries will offer artist receptions and live music Aug. 2.
George E. Moussalli, 88
Over 75 Years of Service
Originally built by the White Motor Company in Cleveland, Ohio, the fleet of 33 buses were restored by the Ford Motor Company in 2001.
Along for the Ride
Beverly Gaussiran of Sun City Center, Fl. and passengers take in the views as the Big Red Bus makes its way up Going to the Sun road in Glacier National Park on July 23. The fleet of 33 Red Buses have been in use since 1936.
Picture Perfect
Passengers, Ron DeTemple, left, of Huntington, W.Va. and Joe Campisi of Philadelphia take pictures during one of the stops on the way up Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park on July 23.
McDonald Creek from Above
The view from the Big Red Bus looking over McDonald Creek from Going to the Sun Road. A number of tours are offered to guests, with room for 17 passengers on each bus.
Mount Clements
Mount Clements is one of many mountains visible from the Big Red Bus as it heads up to Logan pass on Going to the Sun Road July 23.
Going to the Sun Road
The Big Red Bus heads down Going to the Sun Road towards West Glacier during a three hour tour up to Logan Pass July 23 in Glacier National Park.
Big Red Bus Tours
The Big Red Bus tours started giving rides to visitors in Glacier National Park in 1936. Bus drivers inform, entertain, and share stories of the parks history.
One of a Kind
Red Bus driver Trimble, 72, drives the same bus he did when he started in 1961, bus number 96. The Red Buses were built by White Motor Company between 1936 and 1939, and restored in 2001 with the help of Ford Motor Company.
Red Bus "Jammer"
When First lady Laura Bush visited the park in 2004, Trimble trained a member of the secret service to drive the bus as he sat in the passenger seat and told stories of the parks history.
Bill Trimble
Big Red Bus tour driver Bill Trimble began driving the bus in Glacier National Park in 1961 when he was 21 years old. Following the summer of 1966 Trimble moved to Kansas City, Mo. for a 30 year career in law enforcement where he retired, and has now returned to the park to once again drive visitors to the park.
Cherry Stands
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Lou Coverdell weighs containers with cherries at the Foss Farms' cherry stand on Montana 35 south of Bigfork. Liu is on a road trip with his from Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Wednesday, July 25, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.
Winward Way Shooter
Kalispell police officers arrest a suspect after receiving reports of an armed man on Wednesday in Kalispell. Sergeant Dave Overman says they found an AR-15 air-soft gun, the suspect was arrested for outstanding warrants.
Daybook
County sets fees for GIS work
A new fee schedule has been adopted for maps and property ownership lists created by the Flathead County Geographic Information Systems Office.
Don't leave dogs in vehicles
The Kalispell Police Department is reaching out to residents on two issues that have been keeping them busy this summer.
Planning Office shortens review times
The turnaround time for processing most applications submitted to the Flathead County Planning Office has been shortened by 15 days, county Planning Director BJ Grieve said.
Kalispell woman pleads not guilty to fourth DUI
A 51-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded not guilty July 19 in Flathead District Court to what would be her fourth offense of driving under the influence.
Viola virtuoso Paul Coletti
Globetrotting career had humble start
Paul Coletti’s four decades playing the viola have taken him around the globe.
North Fork due for 'BioBlitz'
British Columbia’s North Fork Flathead drainage will soon be swarming with scientists looking to document as many forms of life possible in a first-ever “BioBlitz” for the area.
'2016' movie opens Friday
A new movie that is critical of President Barack Obama and was produced by Bigfork resident and Oscar-winning filmmaker Gerald “Jerry” Molen opens this Friday at Signature Theaters in Kalispell.
Tuesday, July 24
Crane Operator Memorial
Lake Swank crane operator Fred Winston looks out over Kalispell on Thursday afternoon, January 12, as he works on the Surgical Services addition to the Kalispell Regional Medical Center. Winston died of complications due to cancer on Wednesday, July 18, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. Winston, 59, of Missoula, was a union crane operator through the Local 400. He became a crane operator in 1979 and had worked for Swank since 2000. According to Jeff Halsey, foreman for Swank Construction at the crane at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center expansion project, said that Winston had run every kind of crane they make. "He's run rough terrains, truck cranes, friction rigs and tower cranes (like the one being used at KRMC)." Halsey and the construction crew put up a banner which reads R.I.P. Freddy on Thursday, July 19, which according to Halsey will remain up until the crane comes down in mid-September. A celebration of life will be held at the Lolo Community Center on Friday, July 27, from 4 to 6 p.m.
Crane man's memorial flies high
A memorial to a longtime crane operator now flies 160 feet above the ground at his recent workplace.
Walkaway toddler reunited with mother
Deputies with the
Ray W. Burnside, 74
Ray W. Burnside, 74, passed away at his home in Kalispell on Saturday, July 21, 2012.
Marvene S. Shidler, 80
Marvene S. Shidler, 80, of Buffalo, Wyo., passed away Monday, July 9, 2012, after a short stay at the Sheridan Manor in Sheridan, Wyo.
Jean O'Neil, 73
Jean O'Neil, better known as “Mom’s Jams" of Whitefish, passed away on July 15, 2012, after a short fight with cancer.
This Week in the Flathead: Somers Cajun Street Dance
Robert Brinkey of Kalispell dances with his daughter Ainsley, 9, on his shoulders on Saturday, July 21, at the Somers Cajun Street Dance.
William Mathias Scott, 91
William Mathias Scott, 91, died peacefully on July 21, 2012, at the family Swan Lake cabin, surrounded by family. “His chassis finally wore out and was recalled by the Maker.”
Native American Indian Days Parade
Ferstival Amadeus: Paul Coletti
Violist Paul Coletti warms up before the start of the rehearsal with Glacier Symphony pianist April Lane on Monday afternoon at the Performing Arts Center in Whitefish.
Week in Pictures: July 16-22
Lightning storms spark 7 fires on forest
Sunday’s thunderstorms brought more than 100 lightning strikes to the Flathead National Forest, sparking at least seven small fires.
Columbia Falls teachers honored
The Columbia Falls Teachers Union recently announced recipients of 2011-12 teachers of the year awards:
Work hours expand for school employees
Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Darlene Schottle says the budget for the 2012-13 school year is solid.
FEMA flood-plain protests due Wednesday
Evergreen residents who plan to protest the flood elevations assigned to their property by the Federal Emergency Management Agency face a Wednesday deadline to do so.
New cancer clinic opens in Whitefish
Kalispell-based Glacier Oncology recently opened the first cancer clinic in Whitefish.
Man charged with fifth DUI
A 49-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be his fifth offense of driving under the influence.
Daybook
Community input sought for library hours
Beginning Aug. 6, the Flathead County Library System will survey the community to determine whether library service hours should be adjusted in Kalispell, Bigfork and Columbia Falls.
Monday, July 23
Glass goes missing on motor home
The
Shooting suspect in court
James Holmes
Margaret M. Bright, 82
Robert 'Bob' James Breck, 65
Festival Amadeus
Above, violinist Tim Fain plays at the Festival Amadeus Open Air Orchestra Concert on Sunday evening at Depot Park in Whitefish. Fain will be performing tonight with violist Paul Coletti in “Chamber Night 1: Magnificent Duo” at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. Fain and Coletti will also be performing at 7:30 p.m. Thursday in “Orchestra Night 1: Serenade of Soloists.” For a complete Festival Amadeus schedule, visit www.gscmusic.org.
Henry Cejudo in Liverpool: Team USA Britain Bound presented by Samsung
Samaritan House Cookbook
Curt Lamm, associate director of Samaritan House holds a copy of the new Come To Our Table: The Community Cookbook of Sharing and Caring on Thursday, July 19, at Samaritan House in Kalispell.
Lightning
Severe lightning storms roll past the Majestic Valley Arena on Sunday night. Sunday, July 22, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Medicare Supplement
Fly Fishing Montana/Idaho July 2012 Part I
Sunday, July 22
State Babe Ruth: Hi-Line edges Kalispell Lakers
Kiel Krumwiede scored on a RBI single by Jake Page in the bottom of the eighth inning, lifting Hi-Line to a 4-3 victory over the Kalispell Lakers in the championship game of the Montana State 15/13U Babe Ruth baseball tournament at Kidsports Complex on Sunday.
Mariners Western A District champions
MISSOULA — The Mission Valley Mariners are Western A District American Legion baseball champions for the fourth time since 2002.
Jefferson wire-to-wire winner at Montana 200
Jeff Jefferson of Naches, Wash., became the forth driver in the history of the Montana 200 to win this event more than once Saturday night with a wire-to-wire performance.
Morleys run off with 6k titles
The Morleys were individual winners at the Columbia Falls Cruise 6k (3.7 miles) run on Saturday in Columbia Falls.
'Wee Whinnies'
Me Jo, a silver bay pinto miniature horse, visits with staff and residents at the Lake View Care Center in Bigfork. Cassandra Wilson is taking her miniature horses around to area nursing homes and health care facilities in her Wee Whinnies Therapeutic Minis project.
'Wee Whinnies': Miniature horses provide therapeutic nuzzles for elderly
Cassandra Wilson gets “all goose bumpy” just remembering the day that launched Wee Whinnies Therapeutic Minis.
Monday Profile
From left, Clint Muhlfeld, Joel Shehan and Phil Grove compete for the Sportsman Ski Haus Cycling Team. Other team members are Rose Grant and Ben Parsons. Grant and Grove also participated in the USA Cycling nationals.
Local cycler takes second at nationals
With a second-place finish in the top men’s amateur class at the USA Cycling Mountain Bike Cross-Country National Championships in Sun Valley, Idaho this month, Kalispell racer Joel Shehan can make the jump to pro next year if he wants.
Woman pleads guilty to assaulting baby
A 20-year-old Columbia Falls woman pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony assault on a minor.
Council tables storm-water plan for the Willows
A resolution to create a special improvement district to pay for storm-water drainage improvements in the Willows was tabled last Monday as the Kalispell City Council voted to explore the issue in more detail during an upcoming work session.
Woman admits to criminal endangerment
A 30-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony criminal endangerment and misdemeanor drunk driving.
Thomas Wayne Arnold, 60
Thomas Wayne Arnold, 60, died in Las Vegas, after a heart attack on July 9, 2012.
Bar patron brags about beating probation
Saturday afternoon, a caller told
Board issues ultimatum for Bigfork eatery
Flathead City-County Board of Health and County Health Officer Joe Russell agreed Thursday to issue an ultimatum to Margrit Matter, owner of Swan River Inn in Bigfork, to take a course to improve food safety or face the threat of legal action to close the restaurant.
Heath-care exec develops software for employee scheduling
Tyler Weber knew there must be an easier way to schedule shifts for the 11 radiologists he works with as chief administrative officer of Northwest Imaging in Kalispell.
Trego woman pleads guilty to meth trafficking
A 26-year-old Trego woman pleaded guilty during U.S. District Court proceedings July 10 in Missoula to a charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Daybook
Names of victims emerge in Colo. rampage
Plan to attack Beaver Lake weed finalized
The battle against Eurasian watermilfoil in Beaver Lake continues.
Governor, this is what's fair
We know we weren’t the only ones taken aback by the news story last Saturday about the governor’s meeting with the family of Ron Smith, the convicted killer who is on Death Row for the murder of two young men in 1982.
Women and children deserve better than abortion
As I read Kay Ohana’s letter entitled “Do pro-lifers just see life from a man’s perspective?” I was deeply saddened and quite insulted and felt the need to respond to her many false statements and assertions. I realize that this may come as a shock to Ms. Ohana, since she wrongly stated that the “majority of the pro-lifers are male,” but I am the familiar face of the pro-life movement in this country. I am young, I am female, I am Catholic, and I assure you, I am not alone.
How Hollywood has cheapened our family life
As a life-long educator — teacher, principal and all that — and as a parent and grandparent, I have always tried to be attuned to what young people were reading and watching. When I say “young people,” I am referring to those between the ages of 9 and 15. Before the youngest age everyone is focused on their well-being and life speeds by. After 15, what they are going to be and how well it is going to turn out is pretty well set. It is that “middle age” time we virtually ignore.
61st Annual North American Indian Days
The North American Indian Days celebration took place July 12-15 in Browning. The Blackfeet host Native Americans from every region of the United States and Canada.
Saturday, July 21
Evjene tops bronc riding
Andrew Evjene of Two Dot posted rides of 81 and 83 Saturday night at Majestic Valley Arena to win the bronc portion of the Rocky Mountain Extreme Bulls and Broncs event.
Lakers split with Med Hat; Mavs sweep Twins
The Kalispell Lakers split a conference doubleheader against Medicine Hat on Saturday at Griffin Field.
Mission Valley rolls by Libby; Glacier out
MISSOULA — Top-seeded Mission Valley pushed eight runs across the plate in the second inning and followed with three-run innings in the fourth and sixth to roll over Libby 14-1 on Saturday at the Western A District American Legion baseball tournament.
Bull Riding Challenge
Hunter Zigler of Kalispell holds on moments before falling and getting stepped on by a bull during the Rocky Mountain Bulls and Broncs Challenge at Majestic Valley Arena Saturday evening.
Montana 200
Jeff Jefferson, 42, of Naches, Wash. leads the field of 26 drivers on the back stretch in the Montana 200 at Montana Raceway Park in Kalispell July 21, 2012. (Inter Lake file photo)
Glacier Rally in the Rockies
Gerry Prodor drives down First Avenue West during the Glacier Rally in the Rockies classic car and motorcycle show in downtown Kalispell on July 21. Prodor, 69, started driving his dad's 1955 Cadillac at 13 years old.
Drunken revelers find trouble
Officers with the
Canola taking root in the Flathead
The bright yellow fields seem to be everywhere in the Flathead Valley this summer, and while they add a scenic swatch to the landscape they’re also evidence of a substantial upswing in local canola production.
Do nation's watchmen now stand guard in vain?
Last week, I mentioned that I had found a column about the “Liberty Amendment” in a newspaper owned by the Freedom Newspapers group, and noted that Freedom Newspapers and its owner R.C. Hoiles were worth a column of their own.
Gavin Schenck, 47
Gavin Schenck, 47, died in his own way and time at Heritage Place in Kalispell on Friday morning, July 20, 2012, after living for 40 years with a terrible, incurable, slowly progressive brain disease.
Helen Mary Harris Dahle, 85
Helen Mary Harris Dahle, 85, passed away unexpectedly on Tuesday, July 17, 2012 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Golden Fields of Canola
Canola flowers silhouetted against the setting sun on Tuesday, July 17, in West Valley.
Maude Lorraine Bauska, 90
Maude Lorraine Bauska, 90, “slipped away to Heaven on the wings of angels” in the wee hours of July 20, 2012, at Brendan House, with her daughter Lorraine and other family by her side.
Waves of grain
Miles Passmore, a 24-year-old farmer stands in a field of canola on Thursday morning, July 19, near Bigfork.
Gloria Doreen Hudson, 84
Duane L. Wolfe, 73
Duane L. Wolfe, 73, “went to Heaven” on July 16, 2012.
Hot Rodding
The 1932 Ford Roadster owned by Gerry Prodor of Edmonton, Alberta is parked on First Avenue West for the Glacier Rally in the Rockies classic car and motorcycle show in downtown Kalispell July 21.
Woman jailed for alleged negligent homicide
Arrest stems from Feb. 18 accident
A 33-year-old Kalispell woman is in jail after being arrested Wednesday on a warrant for negligent homicide.
Pablo man pleads guilty to drug charge
A 27-year-old Pablo man pleaded guilty Wednesday during U.S. District Court proceedings in Billings to a charge of use of a communications facility to aid in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana.
City attorney ordained as Catholic deacon
By TOM LOTSHAWThe Daily Inter Lake
College presidents share issues with legislators
Officials from Flathead Valley Community College and the University of Montana hosted legislators and candidates Friday morning for a wide-ranging discussion of education issues in preparation for the 2013 legislative session.
Daybook
Flathead jobless numbers improve
Flathead County’s jobless rate continued to improve in June, with the unemployment rate posting at 8.5 percent. That’s a 0.7 percent improvement over May, when the rate was 9.2 percent.
Storm knocks out power in Libby
Nearly 6,000 Flathead Electric Cooperative members in Northwest Montana, primarily Libby, were without power by 7 p.m. Friday as a strong storm blew into the area.
Friday, July 20
Babe Ruth Baseball: Lakers, Hi-Line 3-0 in state play
The Kalispell Lakers rolled over another foe at the Montana State 15/13U Babe Ruth baseball tournament at Kidsports Complex.
Mission Valley tips Kootenai Valley in Western A Dist. baseball tourney
MISSOULA — The top seeded Mission Valley Mariners slipped by the Kootenai Valley Rangers on Friday in winners’ bracket play at the Western A District American Legion baseball tournament.
Tough night for cowboys
Hunter Zigler of Kalispell said he started riding bulls about a year- and-a-half ago after he got out of the Marine Corps.
Bull Riding at the Majestic Valley Arena
Sandy Deshaun of Grasmere, British Columbia, gets tossed high in the air during the Rocky Mountain Extreme Bull and Bronc Riding Challenge Friday night at Majestic Valley Arena. Action resumes tonight at 7.
Gentlemen, Start Your Engines
The green flag waves for the first race of the night July 20 at the Montana Raceway in Kalispell.
James Holmes
This photo provided by the University of Colorado shows James Holmes. University spokeswoman Jacque Montgomery says 24-year-old Holmes, who police say is the suspect in a mass shooting at a Colorado movie theater, was studying neuroscience in a Ph.D. program at the University of Colorado-Denver graduate school. Holmes is suspected of shooting into a crowd at a movie theater killing at least 12 people and injuring dozens more, authorities said.
Gunman opens fire at theater
Cops round up wandering toddlers
The
Helen Mary Harris Dahle, 85
Duane L. Wolfe, 73
Shooter kills 12, wounds 59
Witness tried to keep door closed on gunman
Gavin Schenck, 47
William H. Stock, 70
William H. Stock, 70, passed away on Wednesday, July 18, 2012, at his home in Lakeside.
Avail-TVN
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Michael Kazmier is chief technology officer at Avail-TVN, a digital media services company in Kalispell. Friday, July 20, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Nordic Walking
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Linda Smith, right, and Kathy Prim nordic walk near the Christian Center in Kalispell on Friday afternoon. "In the past I wouldn't have been able to climb this hill," said Smith. "The poles just take all the pressure off your back and knees." Friday, July 20, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
USA Men's relay team post world leading time - Universal Sports
USA Women's Relay Team has troubles in 4x100m - Universal Sports
Severe storms could prompt flash floods
The entire length of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road reopened Tuesday after crews had cleared debris from mud and rock slides that blocked the road on Tuesday, but the National Weather Service is forecasting severe weather for today with more flash flooding that could impact the park.
Staff Videos
Council does the right thing
The Kalispell City Council stepped up and did the right thing, and for that they should be lauded.
Block grant nixed for SmartLam project
Columbia Falls processing plant moving forward
SmartLam, an “advanced cross-laminated timber and wood-processing business,” will launch as planned this summer in Columbia Falls.
Daybook
Fire department to hold trainings at Fourth Street house
The Kalispell Fire Department will hold several training exercises over the next nine days at a house scheduled for demolition.
Bibler tours
The annual Bibler Home and Gardens Summer Tours begin Monday with a kick-off wine reception at 6 p.m. For the rest of the week, the hour-and-a-half tours will take place twice daily at 5:30 and 7 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Reception and/or tour tickets must be purchased in advance with proceeds going to benefit the scholarship program at Flathead Valley Community College. According to foundation coordinator Nancy Clawson, tickets to nearly every tour are practically sold out.
Thursday, July 19
Loggers roll over Red Sox in District opener
MISSOULA — Will Reichel was stellar on the mound and at the plate in helping Libby blast the Bitterroot Red Sox 16-3 on Thursday during first-round action at the Western A District American Legion baseball tournament.
Mitchell back to defend Montana 200 title
The Montana 200, which is celebrating its 22nd season this weekend at Montana Raceway Park, is a must-run event for super late model drivers from all over the Pacific Northwest and western Canada.
Women's State Am: Frank edges Michunovich by 2 strokes
WHITEFISH — Sidney’s Katelyn Frank parred the last two holes to win the Women’s State Amateur championship, securing a two-shot lead that was nearly wiped away by a handful of golfers on Thursday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Kalispell tops Kootenai Valley, Havre in State Babe Ruth play
The Kalispell Lakers defeated the Kootenai Valley All-Stars 14-1 in a game called after five innings by the 10-run rule on Thursday in Montana State 15/13U Babe Ruth baseball championships at Kidsports Complex.
On the lookout for a bank robber
The
Tucker Messer
Tucker Messer, son of Jason and Mandy Messer of Kalispell, was born March 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Laura Dawn VanBroeke
Laura Dawn VanBroeke, daughter of Keith and Summer VanBroeke of Whitefish, was born March 28 at North Valley Hospital.
Michael Malinkowski
Michael Malinkowski, son of Joseph Malinkowski and Alyssa Beach of Martin City, was born March 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Malaya Shaw
Malaya Shaw, daughter of Jon and Tia Shaw of Kalispell, was born March 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Harper Jo Wood
Harper Jo Wood, daughter of Brent and Megan Wood of Libby, was born March 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jalynn Salyer
Jalynn Salyer, daughter of Joanna Salyer of Kalispell, was born March 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kade Olson
Kade Olson, son of Adam and Kathleen Olson of Kalispell, was born March 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Brody Price
Brody Price, son of Tim and Lynde Price of Kalispell, was born March 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Fervor building for first dragon-boat race
Colorful dragon-headed boats loaded with people paddling to the beat of drums, hundreds of spectators on land and water, vendors and music, decorated team tents and hundreds of spectators will combine for a rowdy day on Flathead Lake.
Wyatt Donald Smelker
Wyatt Donald Smelker, son of Zach and Heather Smelker, was born March 26 at North Valley Hospital.
Daniel Baines
Daniel Baines, son of Greer Baines of Kalispell, was born March 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Garrett Keim
Garrett Keim, son of David and Ronna Keim of Kalispell, was born March 22 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jadex Lee
Jadex Lee, son of Scott and Stacy Lee of Kalispell, was born March 20 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Jordan Fox
Jordan Fox, daughter of Daniel and Samantha Fox of Kalispell, was born March 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Syriana Elise McPhail
Syriana Elise McPhail, daughter of Robby and Megan McPhail of Columbia Falls, was born March 19 at North Valley Hospital.
Gabriel James Cahala
Gabriel James Cahala, son of Anthony Cahala and Julie Palmer of Bigfork, was born March 20 at North Valley Hospital.
Pearl Ann Grace Kaski
Pearl Ann Grace Kaski, daughter of Karl and Carmelle Kaski of Lakeside, was born March 31 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kloey Coziahr
Kloey Coziahr, daughter of Shane Coziahr and Nicole Balla of Kalispell, was born March 30 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kellen Bigelow
Kellen Bigelow, son of Shane and Sarah Bigelow of Kalispell, was born March 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Josie Rebekah Pris
Josie Rebekah Pris, daighter of Jeremy and Kelly Pris of Kalispell, was born March 18 at North Valley Hospital.
Isley Parkman
Isley Parkman, daughter of Jon and Sarah Parkman of Kalispell, was born March 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Wesley Gay Grilley, 86
Walter Strickle
Walter Strickle, son of Paul and Jana Strickle of Kalispell, was born March 28 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ronald A. Wittrock, 71
Ronald A. Wittrock, 71, of Kalispell, passed away Jan. 15, 2012, in Nevada where he had resided the last nine years.
One Chip at a Time
Teigan Avery chips onto the green of the fourth hole Thursday during the State Women’s Amateur Tournament third round at Whitefish Lake Golf course.
Bunker Shot
Morgan Lee from Great Falls digs her way out of the bunker on the sixth hole of the north course at Whitefish Lake Golf course during the State Women’s Amateur Tournament on Thursday afternoon.
Women's State Tournament
Katelyn Frank, left, from Sydney drives the ball down the fairway of the seventh hole on Thursday at Whitefish Lake Golf course during the third round of the State Women’s Amateur Tournament.
Ask an Expert - Dr. Anthony
Dr. Leslie Anthony, D.M.D., discusses dentistry concern with a patient.
Jen Nimmick Video
Diane Brasso
Connie McCubbins Video
Cindy Sease video
Ask an Expert - Great Karma
Hot Rod
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Dan Demars, founder of the Evergreen car show, poses with his 1923 Ford T-bucket Thursday afternoon at his house near Echo Lake. Thursday, July 19, 2012 in Echo Lake, Montana.
Dragon Boats
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake On a dock at Flathead Lake Lodge Ben Townley, 10, watches a a dragon boat paddle around the bay Thursday afternoon during a demonstration of dragon boat racing on Flathead Lake. Thursday, July 19, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.
Bibler Home and Gardens Summer Tours
A pair of black swans add a touch of the exotic to the gardens at the Bibler home on Thursday, July 19, west of Kalispell.
Deacon Charlie Harball
Charlie Harball stands outside of St. Matthew’s Church in Kalispell on Thursday. Harball was ordained as a deacon of the Catholic Church this summer after five years of dedicated study, including weekly trips to Helena.
Montana regulators also investigating adopted kids' ranch
Zinke gathers troops to defeat Obama
Former Navy SEAL Team Six commander and Whitefish state Sen. Ryan Zinke has launched a national political action committee representing special forces and other military personnel dedicated to defeating President Barack Obama this November.
Kalispell plans water-line, storm-water projects
Kalispell is asking for bids for a water-line replacement project along First Avenue East North and for phase one construction work to improve storm water drainage in the South Meadows neighborhood.
It's 'Rally' time for classic cars, cycles
The Glacier Rally in the Rockies classic car and motorcycle show kicks off Friday in Kalispell.
Daybook
Swan Lake netting to continue
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has approved a plan to continue lake trout netting on Swan Lake for another five years.
A looming deficit disaster
The federal government’s dire fiscal condition really should transcend politics and party alignments, and for most everyday people it does.
Man sentenced for fourth DUI
A 40-year-old Kalispell man was sentenced July 12 in Flathead District Court to six months of house arrest and five years of probation after being convicted of his fourth offense of driving under the influence.
A voice for Lisa: Montana 200 racer raises awareness for oral cancer
When driver Agni Howell puts the pedal to the metal of his “super late model” division car this week, he has a goal beyond qualifying and winning at the 22nd Coors Light Montana 200. With “Believe Lisa’s Voice” emblazoned across his car hood, he competes as a tribute to Lisa Petersen, who lost her life to oral cancer.
Wednesday, July 18
Iverson III two shots back at Men's Am
BILLINGS — Kalispell’s Larry Iverson III sits just two strokes back of the lead at the State Men’s Amateur at Briarwood Golf Club in Billings, carding an even-par 72 on Wednesday.
If only rubber gloves could talk ...
Deputies with the
Rock slide at Big Bend on the Going-to-the-Sun Road
The rock slide at Big Bend on the Going-to-the-Sun Road left a massive pile of debris. Crews are clearing and hauling away material so the road can reopen.
Sun Road expected to reopen by day's end
A dozen rock and mud slides that blocked and closed a portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road Tuesday after a pounding rainstorm continued to keep visitors off the famous road on Wednesday as crews cleared away debris.
Society holds weekly dances to keep jazz alive in the valley
There’s just something about jazz.
Regulars, first-timers alike find comfortable eatery in Scotty's Bar
Whether you’re looking for a place to wet your whistle and let your hair down in the evening, a hearty breakfast before hitting the trails or anything in between, Scotty’s Bar in Kalispell has got you covered.
Festival Amadeus includes free events
A host of free music events will be offered to the public during Festival Amadeus.
A voice for Lisa
Agni Howell hopes to raise awareness about oral cancer at the Montana 200 race today through Saturday at Raceway Park north of Kalispell. He’ll be driving in memory of Lisa Petersen, his former racing “buddy” who died of oral cancer last year.
Audition for Glacier Chorale
James Stanard, director of the Glacier Chorale, will hold auditions for prospective new singers in the chorale and symphony’s upcoming performance of Beethoven’s “Ninth Symphony.”
Tobacco Valley Arts Council holds art event
The Tobacco Valley Arts Council, the nonprofit organization that owns and operates the Creative Arts Center in Eureka, is hosting “Art in the Park,” an event designed to raise interest and awareness in the arts and raise funds for the Creative Arts Center.
Jazz Dancing
Robert Spencer plays the drums during the Flathead Valley Jazz Society's jazz dance at the Elks Club in Kalispell.
Bigfork readies for Festival of the Arts
Bigfork celebrates its artistic side with the 34th Bigfork Festival of the Arts Aug. 4 and 5.
Scotty's Bar
One of the daily specials, a turkey-bacon club sandwich with coleslaw, pickle and a side of jojos, costs $8.95 at Scotty’s Bar in Kalispell.
Glen H. Canfield, 79
Blackfeet Nation
A drum is beat during the powwow at the 61st Annual North American Indian Days celebration on July 14. The celebration took place July 12 through the 15 in Browning.
Grand Entrance
Performers and onlookers look on during the grand entrance at the North American Indian Days celebration on July 14. The ceremony was delayed half because of rain.
The Indian Way
James Rider, 11, watches others during the dance contest at the North American Indian Days celebration in Browning July 14. Rider says he has fun doing this because it is the Indian way and he enjoys getting out there and showing his your moves.
Drumming Circle
Treffrey Deerfoot from Siksika, Alberta beats the drum and sings in the drum circle during roll call at the North American Indian Days celebration on July 14. The celebration encompasses one of the largest gatherings of the United States and Canadian tribes.
Prepping for the Powwow
After a half hour rain delay, Ray Blackwater, 72, prepares for the grand entrance at the North American Indian Days celebration in Browning on July 14. Blackwater says he asked for the rain to stop before he started to prepare for the dancing.
Tepee Lined Campground
Tepees lined the 61st Annual North American Indian Days campground in Browning on July 14.
Playing in the Rain
Ladainian Kicking Woman, 4, waits as the rain delayed the start of the powwow on July 14 at the North American Indian Days Powwow in Browning on July 14.
Native American Indian Days Parade
Wyatt Madplume, 17, from Browning wears a traditional outfit during the parade at the North American Indian Days celebration on July 14.
Tools of the Trade
Alana Townsend started shooting pistols when she was 12-years-old. Townsend uses a Steyr Sportwaffen pistol.
Focused on her future
Alana Townsend, 18, from Kalispell, is a member of the National Junior Olympic Pistol Team. Townsend started shooting rifles at age 9 and switched to pistols when she was 12.
Junior Olympian
Alana Townsend, 18, from Kalispell is a member of the National Junior Olympic Pistol Team. Townsend started shooting rifles at nine years old, and switched to pistols when she was 12.
State Women's Amateur Golf
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Janell Tanner-Oneal hits out of the sand on the third Tuesday afternoon during the second round of the State Women's Amateur Tournament on the North Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club. Wednesday, July 18, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Restaurant Guide 2012
Bob Marshall Packrafting - South Fork Flathead
Troy contractor pleads guilty in workers' comp case
A Troy man has pleaded guilty to felony theft after illegally collecting workers’ compensation benefits.
Final two sentenced for running marijuana grow operation
The final two of four people convicted of federal charges for running a marijuana grow operation were sentenced last week during U.S. District Court proceedings in Missoula.
Fairgrounds planning session set for Thursday
A meeting to update people on progress made in the last two months related to future changes and improvements at the Flathead County Fairgrounds is scheduled from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday in the Expo Building at the fairgrounds.
Kalispell soldier vies for 'Best Warrior' title
Staff sergeant mentors top non-commissioned Army officer
Wanted: Flower thieves
Pam Carbonari, director of the Kalispell Downtown Association and Business Improvement District, is asking for help to catch whoever is behind a rash of flower pot thefts.
Rock slide closes road
A portion of Going-to-the-Sun Road was closed in Glacier National Park Tuesday afternoon due to rock and mud slides.
Daybook
Tuesday, July 17
Locals in control at State Senior Am
WHITEFISH — Sidney’s Katelyn Frank and Whitefish Lake’s own Kathy Dodd led after the first day of the Montana State Women’s Golf Association State Amateur and Senior Amateur tournaments on Tuesday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Glacier Twins AA drop two in Great Falls
GREAT FALLS — The Glacier Twins AA couldn’t get the bats going on Tuesday, losing both ends of a doubleheader to the Great Falls Chargers at Don Olson Field in Great Falls.
Kalispell soldier vies for 'Best Warrior' title
Staff Sgt. Aaron Butler, the 2009 U.S. Army Reserve Noncommissioned Officer of the Year, quizzes Cpl. Adam Lucas, the 2012 U.S. Army Reserve Medical Command NCO of the Year, at Fort McCoy, Wis., July 14, 2012. Butler is serving as a sponsor for Lucas at the 2012 U.S. Army Reserve Best Warrior Competition at Fort McCoy, Wis., June 15-20.
Rollover attracts Creston response unit
The
Bright lights
Northern lights dance over Glacier National Park near Logan Pass early Monday morning. Sky watchers can expect to see more of the lights as the 2013 solar maximum approaches. Watch a brief video of the spectacle on the home page of the Daily Inter Lake at www.dailyinterlake.com.
Kalispell council OKs airport upgrade
Annalee M. Fuller, 89
Annalee M. Fuller “left her earthly body to be with her Lord and Savior” on July 17, 2012. Born the youngest of seven siblings in Spokane on Sept. 13, 1922, she was raised in Delaware after her parents, Silas and Marian McHenry, lost their fortune in the Depression and purchased a farm where they could be sure of putting food on the table.
Eleanor Lorraine Donich, 94
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Northern lights in Glacier National Park Monday morning.
Northern Lights
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Northern lights in Glacier National Park Monday morning.
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Northern lights in Glacier National Park Monday morning.
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Northern lights in Glacier National Park Monday morning.
Kayaking on the Flathead
Holli Hoskins, left, and Gerry Sutton of Lyons, Colo., share a laugh as they prepare to kayak out onto Flathead Lake on Tuesday morning, July 17, near Somers.
Shift Auction
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Ty Webber talks about the benefits of Shift Auction, software he developed to help improve scheduling of employee's shifts. The web-based application can be used through most devices that have an internet connection. Tuesday, July 17, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
State Women's Amateur Golf
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Erin Tabish watches her drive off the ninth tee Monday morning during the first round of the State Women's Amateur Tournament at Whitefish Lake Golf Course. Tuesday, July 17, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Sprinter Tyson Gay's 2012 Olympic Training
Whitefish Montana Mountain Biking - Summit trail 3rd run
Montana June Weekend fishing
Glacier Park wants to replace trailers
Glacier National Park is requesting public comment on a proposal to construct replacement employee housing in the Swiftcurrent employee housing area at Many Glacier and in the East Glacier Ranger Station compound.
Monday, July 16
Theresa Morton, 83
Daybook
Kalispell man the first to earn Montana low-speed license
Jay Barrow, almost 58, on Monday became the first person in Montana to receive a low-speed restricted driver’s license under a new provision in state law.
Attorney confident Jesus statue will stay on Big Mountain
An attorney who is involved in defending the Jesus statue on Big Mountain says she is confident that legal precedents aimed at discouraging the government from being “hostile” to religion will help the Flathead National Forest prevail, allowing for the statue to remain where it is.
County ready to hire Agency on Aging director
Applicants are being sought for the Flathead County Agency on Aging director’s position.
Flower thief hits downtown Kalispell
Someone stole a number of floral decorations in downtown Kalispell, a caller told the Kalispell Police Department on Monday. The city’s large flower planters were reported missing at Main and First, Main and Second and Main and Third. Also stolen were flower baskets hanging on lamp posts along Main Street.
Homicide charged dismissed, Troy man shot daughter
LIBBY — A 75-year-old Troy man has been found unfit to stand trial in his daughter’s shooting death.
Popularity soars for Kalispell day camps
Kalispell’s day camps for area youngsters at Woodland Park are proving exceedingly popular this summer, among both working parents and their children.
Kalispell woman named next 'Treasured' artist
Self-taught photographer and digital artist Sheryl Hester of Kalispell is the next “Treasured” Montana Artist.
Council to get legislative update
Kalispell City Council members will meet Tuesday with Alec Hansen of the Montana League of Cities and Towns for an update on the upcoming session of the state Legislature.
Fairgrounds holds meeting for exhibitors
The Daily Inter Lake
Jesus Statue
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Arnold Funk, left, describes his experiences serving with the 10th Mountain Division to Rep. Denny Rehberg during a meeting at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 276 in Whitefish regarding the state of the Jesus statue on Big Mountain. Monday, July 16, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Slow-Moving Vehicle License
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Examiner Rachael Mitchell checks the turn signals of Jay Barrow's golf cart in the parking lot of the Drivers License Department on Monday afternoon during his driving test for a new slow-moving vehicle license. Monday, July 16, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Alan Gilham, 78
Alan Gilham, 78, passed away quietly on Wednesday, July 11, 2012, at his home in Martin City, with his family by his side.
Northern Lights in Glacier National Park
Auroras lit up the sky over Glacier National Park near Logan Pass early Monday morning. This series of photos was taken over a period of five minutes and shows colors that weren't visible to the naked eye.
2012 Olympic Medal Tally
Julie Reid
Julie Reid is a native Montanan, born and raised in Missoula. She has been in the insurance business since January 2000. Julie specializes in group and individual Health, Dental, Vision, Medicare Supplements and Medicare D products.
Sunday, July 15
Loggers sweep Twins
LIBBY — A doubleheader sweep Sunday of the Glacier Twins on the final day of regular season play in Class A American Legion baseball gave the Libby Loggers the No. 3 seed for the upcoming West District A Tournament, which begins Thursday in Missoula.
Champs return for Women's State Amateur golf
Maggie Crippen of Missoula and Sue Matson of Laurel return to defend their Montana State Women’s Golf Association titles this week at the 95th annual State Amateur and State Senior Amateur Championship at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Pill poppers asked to leave church on Sunday
Two men in their late 20s were reportedly popping pills in a First Avenue East church Sunday and fighting amongst themselves in the bathroom. A caller told
Fundraiser helps Montana's 'iconic' grizzlies
The grizzly bear is an iconic animal.
County budget includes raises, more positions
The $75.2 million budget in place for Flathead County for the fiscal year that began July 1 includes four new positions, salary increases of 2.5 percent for most employees, which total $654,811, and capital improvements totaling $4.1 million.
Monday Profile
Jeana Roose King, a former Lincoln County resident, shows the Kiondo Bags of Hope and coffee products from Kenya that she sells to help support the educational and economic development projects that she has started in Kenya with her partner Debra Akre.
Woman home with Kiondos of Hope
Jeana Roose King, the outstanding girl graduate of Lincoln County High School in 1981, dreamed of a big city career when she completed college degrees in fashion merchandising and business.
Defendant pleads not guilty to DUI charge
A 45-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be her fourth offense of driving under the influence.
Week in Pictures: July 9-15
Burglar gets five years for three crimes
A 25-year-old Columbia Falls man was sentenced Thursday in Flathead District Court to five years in jail and 10 years of probation for convictions in three cases.
New Whitefish seafood restaurant has ties to Hawaii
The story of Stillwater Fish House & Oyster Bar began 10 years ago on a beach in Hawaii when Jesse Felder, then a 21-year-old Army infantryman fresh out of basic training, and his buddies were looking for a place to camp out under the stars.
Pharmacy robber pleads guilty in federal court
A 25-year-old Kalispell man who held up the Evergreen Pharmacy in 2011 has pleaded guilty to federal charges.
Fighting back against graffiti
On June 15, the law-enforcement roundup in the Daily Inter Lake began with the following report:
Felon gets 10 years
District Judge Katherine Curtis went beyond both defense and prosecution recommendations Thursday in Flathead District Court and sentenced a 23-year-old Kalispell man to 10 years in jail and 15 years of probation.
Daybook
Trail group buys 50 more acres to expand park
Foy’s to Blacktail Trails purchased another 50 acres of land to donate to Flathead County-owned Herron Park.
Rider brings message of hungry children
A nomadic wind departed Kalispell Saturday after blowing in a few days ago in the guise of horseman Doc Mishler.
The Holocaust... and the sins of my father
A friend of mine got a lifetime achievement award recently and it got me to thinking about the Holocaust again, something that’s never been completely out of my mind for the past 22 years.
The "Inferno"... and the difference between reason and insanity
From time to time, one cannot but wonder how war is possible. That question is usually put by liberals who misconstrue it as an exacerbated outcry against our side ever taking up arms, given the inevitable carnage that we leave behind. From such a point of view, pacifism is indeed the only sane response. The problem is the assumption of sanity on the other side. I grant the universality of reason, but not of sanity. Insane wielders of power are perfectly reasonable. They just twist reason toward insane ends.
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Summertime at the Whitefish Ski Resort at Big Mountain
Whitefish Ski Resort public relations manager Riley Polumbus shows off some of the activities that are being offered this summer at Big Mountain in Whitefish, Montana.
Saturday, July 14
Golden State riders dominate cross country
For riding in her first three-star competition, Katherine Groesbeck of Sylmar, Calif., certainly didn’t show her inexperience on the course. The 23-year-old is in second place at The Event at Rebecca Farm after the second day, trailing leader Kristi Nunnink of Auburn, Calif., by just .2 points.
Guckenberg's grand slam, 3 HRs help Rangers beat Red Sox twice
EUREKA — Going deep was something Bryton Guckenberg did quite often Saturday afternoon.
Nystuen, Hart 5k champs at Lakeside
Carl Nystuen of Lakeside and Rachel Hart of Kalispell were the top male and female finishers Saturday at the Lakeside 5k run.
Transcontinental cowboy
Transcontinental cowboy Doc Mishler relaxes outside Sykes while preparing to head out of town with his horses, from left, Charity, Chief-Free-Spirit and Justice. He is riding across the country raising awareness for the issue of childhood hunger.
Catching mountain air in Whitefish
When Lacy and Jim Schneider of Kalispell wanted a unique way to celebrate their third anniversary, they took their love to a higher ground — 70 feet above the ground to be precise — on Whitefish Mountain Resort’s Walk in the Treetops.
Bartender naps on pool table
Officers with the Columbia Falls Police Department transported a bartender home with a citation pending after it was reported that he had locked the doors and passed out on a pool table at the Nucleus Avenue bar.
Do we need amendment to protect our liberty?
Just when you think there is no possible solution to the mess facing our country, you discover that the solution has been around for more than half a century.
Dorothy Mae Wick, 88
Dorothy Mae Wick, 88, passed away Friday July 13, 2012 in Kalispell.
Kristi Ann (Lambertz) Zimbelman, 53
On Friday the sixth of July, 2012, “the Lord called Kristi Zimbelman home to rest in her eternal garden.”
Ashley Brooke Trautwein, 27
Ashley Brooke Trautwein, 27, of Kalispell, died Monday, May 21, 2012, in Kalispell.
Arnold H. Dillard, 97
Arnold H. Dillard, 97, passed away on July 4, 2012, at Beartooth Manor in Columbus.
Grizzlies get their due
Tim Manley, grizzly bear management specialist for northwest Montana, right, talks with Jack Hanna Friday evening during the Grizzly Bear Rendezvous, a fundraising event for the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Foundation. The event was held at Hanna's ranch near Bigfork.
Grizzly Bear Rendezvous
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Ryan Stuber lifts a panel to reveal the type of bear is in the picutre at a bear identification display Friday night during the Grizzly Bear Rendezvous in Bigfork. Friday, July 13, 2012 in Bigfork, Montana.
Martha Raye Hansen, 70
Martha Raye Hansen, 70, of North Pole, Alaska, died peacefully at home June 17, 2012, after a long, hard fight with Huntington’s disease.
Graffiti Clean Up
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Kalispell City Manager Doug Russell uses a pressure washer to clean graffiti off the walls of the tunnel under U.S. 93 near Flathead Valley Community College Saturday morning during a community graffiti cleanup day. Saturday, July 14, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
The Event
Kristi Nunnink goes through the keyhole jump on her horse R-Star Saturday afternoon during The Event at Rebecca Farm.
Visitors flocking to Glacier
Despite record rainfall in June, Glacier National Park visitation was up nearly 18 percent compared to June 2011.
Ex-bookkeeper accused of stealing $154,000
A 43-year-old Kalispell woman pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to felony embezzlement of more than $154,000.
Kidsports easement plan developing
The city of Kalispell and the nonprofit Kidsports organization hope to learn soon how much it will cost to buy a permanent easement for the popular youth athletic complex on state school trust land along U.S. 93.
Rising lake shows no health risks
Echo Lake continues to rise at a rate of just under an inch a day, and Flathead County officials say sampling for fecal coliform bacteria shows there is no threat to public health.
Daybook
Pair studies fragments of prehistory
When asked what they did over the summer, two Flathead High School alumni will be able to say they spent several weeks in China trying to piece together the prehistoric past using fragments of fossilized dinosaur eggs.
Governor meets condemned killer's family
Schweitzer says he hasn’t yet made clemency decision
Friday, July 13
Hammel riding high
Staff member mixes busy work schedule with competition
As Kurstie Hammel glided around the cross country course at The Event at Rebecca Farm on Friday, she had an unusually large group of spectators for a novice rider. Teams of people on four-wheelers tracked her progress from a distance and from every corner of the course they whooped and hollered as she passed by.
Martha Raye Hansen, 70
Arnold H. Dillard, 97
Kristi Ann (Lambertz) Zimbelman, 53
Vickhammer, Hegel, Gerrish join NWMSCRA Hall of Fame
Three new members will join the Northwest Montana Stock Car Racing Association Hall Of Fame tonight during a special ceremony before the featured main event at Montana Raceway Park.
Ashley Brooke Trautwein, 27
Son says his dad shot him in face
Deputies with the
Governor meets condemned killer's family
Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer, left, is shown meeting with relatives of convicted murderer Ronald A. Smith, who are seeking executive clemency for the death row inmate, Friday in Helena. Schweitzer has indicated he is undecided on the question of clemency for Smith.
State high court upholds Flathead pot ruling
A new edict has been issued in the “continuing fiasco” that is Montana’s medical marijuana program.
Snapper captured
An aggressive 20-pound snapping turtle was captured by Paul Charbonneau of Flathead County Animal Control Friday morning in Kalispell. The turtle reportedly was first caught in the creek near Cemetery Road by a man who delivered it to his ex-girlfriend. Charbonneau took the turtle to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, where he was told it would be killed since it’s not native to this part of Montana. According to Alan Wood, a state biologist, snapping turtles are very good at eating everything they can catch, up to and including ducks. They compete with native species for food. “We don’t want a species introduced where they haven’t been historically because it will alter the ecosystem,” Wood said.
Summer Day Camp
Campers and counselors participate in various activities at the Summer Day Camp at Woodland Park in Kalispell on July 12.
Jumping Rope
A child jumps rope at the Woodland Park summer day camp in Kalispell on July 12.
Ready or Not, Here They Come
Summer Day Camp counselor Mercedes Hoerner, 17, runs from Ren Isaak, 7, during a game at Woodland Park in Kalispell July 12.
The Event at Rebecca Farm
Walking on Water
Rebecca Farm barn manager Kurstie Hammel rides through the duck pond portion of the cross-country course at The Event on Friday.
London Grand Prix 2012 - Tyson Gay Triumphs In 100m
Robert O. Oie, 85
Patricia Gail von Bargen, 91
Whitefish Mountain Resort
Trail guide Lisa Nichols ducks underneath one of the support cables for the Walk in the Treetops boardwalks Wednesday at Whitefish Mountain Resort. Wednesday, July 11, 2012 in Whitefish, Montana.
Business Profile: Stillwater Fish House and Oyster Bar
Jesse Felder, owner of the Stillwater Fish House and Oyster Bar, on Thursday evening, July 12, in Whitefish.
Fishing Yellowstone's Trout Lake with the Flying Pig
Rep. Hayworth Joins Greta to Discuss US Olympic Team Uniforms
Middle school principal gets WFHS job
Kerry Drown is Whitefish High School’s new principal after a unanimous vote by the school board Tuesday.
Rare Demersville records loaned to county
Local historians are tickled pink over an extraordinary collection of original records from the historic Demersville townsite that have been placed on long-term loan to Flathead County by the Don Kaltschmidt family.
Coalition pursuing sound fiscal policy
It may seem like an impossible endeavor, particularly in an election year, but the regional director of the Concord Coalition says the fight for federal fiscal responsibility must continue to avoid true crisis in the United States.
Thumbs up to cherry trials
It is good news indeed that all of the varieties of cherries being tested in orchards around Flathead Lake are showing promise.
Pair sentenced for poaching elk in park
Two Browning men have been convicted of poaching four elk in Glacier National Park near St. Mary last December.
Daybook
Thursday, July 12
The Event at Rebecca Farm: New course, new direction
After 10 years of growing popularity, The Event at Rebecca Farm is going in a completely different direction with its cross country course. And riders couldn’t be happier.
The Event a launching pad for riders, horses to the Olympics
With the Olympics less than three weeks away, The Event at Rebecca Farm won’t feature many of the top riders that it has in the past. But, that doesn’t mean there won’t be a void of talent at this year’s competition.
Lethbridge Elks rip Glacier Twins
WHITEFISH — Lethbridge closed it out with a seven-run eighth inning for a 14-2 West AA American Legion baseball victory over the Glacier Twins Thursday afternoon at Memorial Field.
Wandering man might have had dementia
A Grizzly Base Lane resident contacted the
Forgotten veterans get final honors
At long last, five forgotten Flathead Valley military veterans and two from Billings will reach their final resting place at Fort Harrison today.
Missing in America Project
Dan Kolesar, left, carries the cremains of Army veteran Jon W. Ball during a transfer ceremony Thursday afternoon at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home. The cremains of five military veterans will be transferred to Fort Harrison to their final resting place in the Montana State Veterans Cemetery today. Montana State Chaplain Rikki Perkins, right, accompanied the cremains from Kalispell to Helena. Thursday, July 12, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Week in Pictures: July 2-8
Steven Douglas Herriges, 50
Harlen Harvey Johnson, 70
Harlen Harvey Johnson, 70, passed away July 9, 2012, following a courageous 20-month battle with pancreatic cancer, at his home in Bigfork.
Wildfire breaks out in Bob Marshall Wilderness
Mildred M. Mead, 97
Mildred M. Mead, 97, was born March 27, 1915.
Erolyn Francis Blair, 84
Erolyn Francis Blair passed away peacefully on July 10, 2012, at Northwest Health Care in Kalispell.
Lungeing
Libby Everett, 15, from Gig Harbor, Wa., works out her trainer’s horse Earl before he rides at Rebecca Farm for The Event on Thursday, July 12.
Dressage at The Event
Dawn Bunge from Stevensville rides All-Star, one of Rebecca Broussard’s horses, in the dressage event at Rebecca Farm on Thursday.
One-of-a-Kind
Flathead County Museum president of the board Richard Hardesty looks at one of two displays full of Demersville documents in the County Courthouse Building in Kalispell on Thursday, July 12. The Don Kaltschmidt family loaned the historical documents to the museum.
Taboola test
Flathead County to sell house on landfill property
Another building owned by Flathead County will soon hit the auction block.
Urban Deforestation
A row of five em trees ravaged by Dutch elm disease stand along 2nd Avenue East on Tuesday afternoon, July 10, in Kalispell.
Statue update planned Monday afternoon
Rep. Denny Rehberg will hold a meeting Monday in Whitefish Monday to provide an update on legal proceedings surrounding the Jesus statue on Big Mountain.
Man gets 10 years for sex assaults
A 52-year-old Kalispell man was sentenced Thursday in Flathead District Court to 10 years in jail and 10 years of probation after pleading guilty to felony sexual assault.
Daybook
County emergency director job attracts 23 applicants
Flathead County officials expect to soon begin culling the 23 applications they received for the county emergency services director position.
Board supports new apartment building
Kalispell Planning Board members on Tuesday unanimously supported a permit for Depot Place, a new apartment building for low-income seniors.
Activists targeting Eureka Ranch
Russians venting adoption outrage
The Russian government officials arrived with a Moscow television crew in tow at the gates of a ranch for adopted children in Eureka and demanded to be let inside.
Monitoring the monitors
How far can law enforcement go when it comes to tapping into wireless communications for investigations?
Libby piles on runs in sweep of Kootenai Valley
LIBBY — The Libby Loggers rebounded from a tough loss to Kootenai Valley on Tuesday by sweeping the Rangers in a doubleheader on Wednesday.
McLean, Eaves pitch gems in sweep
Kalispell Lakers AA pitchers Matt McLean and Dillon Eaves combined for 26 strikeouts in a two-game sweep of Lethbridge at Griffin Field on Wednesday.
Wednesday, July 11
Lakers Baseball
Kalispell Laker's Dillon Matteson (8) safely slides safely into second base before being tagged by Brock Groves (14) of the Lethbridge Elks during their game on Wednesday evening, July 11, in Kalispell.
A New Faith talks integrity, sacrifice and why screaming is sometimes necessary
Get loud
With stalwart determination and a penchant for all things loud, A New Faith is bringing its grunge-metal glory to the Flathead Valley and beyond.
Down-home Southern cookin' done right at Tha' Southern Skillet
If your mother could cook, and happened to be Southern, you’d feel right at home at Tha’ Southern Skillet. Serving up true Southern home cooking, this restaurant brings a whole new flavor to Kalispell.
Kids are stars of FVCC productions
Flathead Valley Community College Children’s Summer Theatre will bring fun-filled and affordable entertainment for all ages to its stage this summer as it presents “Schoolhouse Rock Live! Jr.” and “A Bagful of Fables.”
Boy on the mend from fireworks injuries
The 10-year-old Kalispell boy struck in the face by fireworks in Hungry Horse July 4 has undergone surgery in Spokane and may be heading home as soon as this weekend.
Watercraft catches fire near City Beach
The
Strolling through the cedars
Tourists make their way along the Trail of the Cedars boardwalk in Glacier National Park. The Trail of the Cedars is part of the popular trail to Avalanche Lake.
Theater group honors founding member
Whitefish Theatre Co. invites the community to join them in celebrating and honoring Nancy Nei as she retires as artistic director.
Hockaday hosts 44th Arts in the Park
The Hockaday Museum of Art hosts the 44th annual Arts in the Park, Kalispell’s premier arts, crafts and music festival.
Festival Amadeus back for 5th year
A week-long celebration of classical music will take Whitefish by storm this month.
Great Northern Brewing hosts big-name concerts
Great Northern Brewing Co. is sponsoring two days of live music in Whitefish next month.
Zydeco takes Somers by storm
For all who’ve been craving a good time, dancing and Zydeco music, the Somers Cajun Street Dance is just a little more than a week away.
Anita Louise Jones Gray, 68
Anita Gray of Bozeman passed away on Tuesday, July 10, 2012, in Kalispell after a short illness, surrounded by her loving family, with her hands resting on her Bible.
Ingeborg 'Inge' Hertha Anderson, 90
Ingeborg “Inge” Hertha Anderson, 90, passed away on Friday, July 6, 2012, at Brendan House in Kalispell.
Cecil Everett Buttel, 95
Cecil Everett Buttel was born on Sunday, June 12, 1917, to Fredrick and Rosa Buttel of Sherman, Okla. He had four sisters and eight brothers.
Theater plans Batman marathon
Signature Theatres in Kalispell will offer fans of the Caped Crusader a chance to refresh their memories of Christopher Nolan’s trilogy before the final movie’s July 20 release.
Neil Albright, 49
Neil Albright, 49, died in a boating accident on the Clark Fork River on July 8, 2012. Neil was born in Great Falls on Sept. 7, 1962, to Herb and Bette (Barker) Albright.
Mary Mabel Donovan, 85
Mary Mabel Donovan, 85, of Billings, passed away Friday, July 6, 2012.
Camas Creek Yarn offers felted scarf class
Those in search of a hand-crafted project this summer will have an opportunity to learn how to make a felted scarf with Camas Creek Yarn.
Dora Margaret Boyd Wilke, 95
Dora Margaret Boyd Wilke “went to heaven on Angel’s wings” on July 10, 2012.
Upcoming shows
• July 13 — The Bandit, Columbia Falls (with Walking Corpse Syndrome)
Tha' Southern Skillet
Try the breaded catfish dinner with two sides at Tha' Southern Skillet for $8.99
Portion of Montana 83 slated for reconstruction
The Montana Department of Transportation is seeking comments on a proposal to rebuild a section of Montana 83 south of Seeley Lake.
Benefit planned for young girl with leukemia
A benefit barbecue is planned Thursday, July 12, for Gabby LeDuc, who was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia on May 18.
Club gives $50,000 to Polson pool
The Polson Rotary Club has given $50,000 to the Mission Valley Aquatics Center — and pledged another $50,000 in the future.
Man's body found in van in store's parking lot
A 68-year-old Kalispell man was found dead in his van in the Walmart parking lot Monday afternoon.
County growth policy discussion planned tonight
Discussion of the latest draft of Flathead County’s growth policy is expected to continue at a meeting tonight.
River flow finally declining
Runoff and river flows are declining in the Kootenai Basin, allowing for reduced releases at Libby Dam and some flood relief at Bonners Ferry, Idaho.
Daybook
Storm Clouds near Somers
Storm clouds light up the night sky north of Somers on Tuesday, July 10.
Legion Roundup: Holder hits for cycle, throws 15 K's to beat Libby
EUREKA — Hitting for his second cycle this week, Kootenai Valley’s Ryan Holder took over a makeup contest against Libby on Tuesday, hitting in five runners while dominating from the mound, taking a no-hitter into the seventh inning.
Errors cost Lakers in loss to Missoula
The Kalispell Lakers AA fumbled away a chance to win the season series against Western AA leading Missoula on Tuesday, committing seven errors in an 11-6 loss at Griffin Field.
Tuesday, July 10
Child Services hit by arson in Libby
The
Noted pianist Carter dies in river
Former Kalispell resident Monty Noboru Carter drowned Sunday in the Wenatchee River in Leavenworth, Wash.
Preparing for the Event
Bert Wood attaches a jump marker Tuesday afternoon in preparation for The Event at Rebecca Farm. Top-flight equestrian competition will be staged Thursday through Sunday at the venue northwest of Kalispell.
Lakers Baseball
Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake Kalispell Lakers third baseman Sean O'Connell fields a bunt Tuesday evening during the Lakers' matchup against Missoula at Griffin Field. Tuesday, July 10, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
Arnold Elwell Lind, 92
Gerald 'Gary' Young, 71
Gerald "Gary" Young, 71, “won his race through life” July 6, 2012. He passed away after a lengthy illness, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
The Event Preparation
Course decorator Kris wood sorts through bins of flowers to decorate jumps Tuesday afternoon in preparation for The Event at Rebecca Farm. The Event will begin Thursday and run through Saturday. Tuesday, July 10, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
This Week in the Flathead: A New Faith
Travis Boose with A New Faith on Saturday, June 23, at the Bandit Saloon in Columbia Falls.
Fire | Home Image
Fires | Image
Two Vehicle Accident on South 93
Doug Overman, Stan Ottosen, and Mark Mulcahy, of the Kalispell Police Department and Rob Cherot of the Kalispell Fire Department work to move a vehicle involved in a two car accident on Tuesday, July 10, near the Hilton Garden Inn Conference Center in Kalispell.
Monday, July 9
Ruth Broeder, 87
Stanley L. Downen, 77
Daybook
Tuesday
Pool weather finally arrives
After a soft opening during a cool and extremely wet June, Kalispell’s Woodland Water Park finally is in full swing.
Glacier Park grows by 120 acres
A 120-acre inholding that was homesteaded by one of Glacier National Park’s first rangers has been acquired by the park through the Trust for Public Lands.
Overdue horseback riders OK
A search for two overdue horseback riders on the Spotted Bear Ranger District turned out well Sunday when the two met up with searchers.
Twins get Charged
Glacier Twins third baseman Shane Marcial make the play on a ground ball during Monday nights game against the Great Falls Chargers at Kalispell High School.
Head on the Ball
Carl Talsma of the Glacier Twins grounds out during Monday nights American Legion game against the Great Falls Chargers at Kalispell High School.
The Chargers Strike
First baseman Tanner Watson catches the final out of the third inning for the Great Falls Chargers against the Glacier Twins Monday night at Kalispell High School.
Kalispell man dies after raft tips over in Clark Fork
MISSOULA — Authorities say a Kalispell man died after his raft tipped over in the Clark Fork River west of Missoula.
Great Falls Ace
Great Falls Chargers pitcher Dalton Cook throws a pitch during Monday nights match up against the Glacier Twins at Kalispell High School.
No trial, settlement yet for Diamond Aire lawsuit
An eight-year legal fight between Montana Diamond Aire owner John Talmage and the city of Kalispell continues to grind along with no end in sight.
Male grizzly moved to Bull River area
Another grizzly bear has been moved to the Cabinet-Yaak region as part of an ongoing population augmentation program.
Veterans to be laid to rest
There will be a transfer ceremony at 3 p.m. Thursday at Buffalo Hill Funeral Home and Crematory in Kalispell for the cremains of five military veterans.
Trail worker out of intensive care
The Glacier National Park trail crew member who was badly injured in a fall from the Highline Trail last week has been released from the intensive care unit at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Man takes revenge on thieving newspaper box
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office got a report Sunday regarding a man who insisted that a Great Falls newspaper vending box took his money, and he was demanding a refund from a store in Hungry Horse. When he was told that the store didn’t own the box, he threatened to get a hammer to get his money back. The clerk thought he was joking, but the man went into his motor home and got something that he used to break the handle off the box before driving away.
National Geographic kids coming to Montana
Montana has been chosen as the first United States destination for the 2012 National Geographic Kids Hands-On Explorer Challenge.
Robert L. Howard, 71
On July 7, 2012, Bob gave up his fight with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease).
Audiology extern defines presbycusis
Ever heard of presbycusis, or is everyone mumbling so much that you don’t hear much of anything? If it’s the latter, you may suffer from the former, which translates to age-related hearing loss.
Helen Huck Voelker Ramon, 97
“It is the end of an era for the Flathead, for Montana and for the art world at large,” with the passing of Helen Huck Voelker Ramon, 97, of Kalispell, who passed away July 3, 2012, at Heritage Place.
Four Car Accident
Kalispell emergency crews remove the driver of a truck involved in a 4-car accident on East Idaho Street Monday afternoon, July 9.
Splashing Around
Talyn Richardson, 2, from Kalispell splashes in the water for his first time at Woodland Water Park on Monday, July 9.
Jump In
Lane Appelt, 13, from Kalispell front-flips off the diving board at the Woodland Water Park in Kalispell on Monday, July 9.
Montana Diamond Aire
A 60-foot rolling gate separating Montana Diamond Aire and the Kalispell City Airport has been the center of a legal fight since 2004.
Coal Nyack Loop
Bigfork Whitewater Festival 2012 Highlights
Olympian running to save others
Headliners Swim Their Way To Victory for Team USA: Road to London
Sunday, July 8
Mariners claim Harp title, pick up 40th victory
It was a monumental day for the Mission Valley Mariners A American Legion baseball team.
Stolen Jeep found dumped in river
A Jeep Wrangler reported stolen from North Main Street early Sunday morning was later found in the river behind the House of Mystery, according to the
Tenants pleased with Sykes' high-end dwellings
Lillian Fenster, 89, the first tenant of the new Sykes’ apartment complex in Kalispell, waited longer than expected, but that didn’t dampen her enthusiasm when she finally moved in June 15.
Thompson awaits response to new apartments
Ray Thompson, owner and developer of the Sykes’ complex in Kalispell, wrapped up the luxury apartments in June just in time to celebrate his 50th wedding anniversary in the main building with his wife Ladeine and 400 guests.
Schools welcome new principals, superintendents
As the new school year quickly approaches, school districts across the valley have been filling up principal and superintendent positions.
Monday Profile
The Montana Contractors' Association and Montana State University Civil Engineering Department recently recognized Arnie Mohl for his lifetime achievement in the construction industry.
Contractor group bestows top honor on Mohl
There’s a lot of living tucked into the Lifetime Achievement award Arnie Mohl recently received from the Montana Contractors’ Association.
Kalispell school board OKs energy audit
In an attempt to move forward with school improvements, particularly at Flathead High School, the Kalispell school board last month agreed to spend $59,858 to complete an investment grade energy audit.
Donita Mae Richardson, 50
Donita Mae Richardson, 50, of Columbia Falls, passed away Friday, July 6, 2012, in Columbia Falls.
M. March Grieb, 83
M. March (Denney) Grieb, 83, of Great Falls, a wife and mother, died of cancer on Saturday, July 7, 2012, at a hospice facility.
Zaiss-Johnson Group a top performer for Merrill Lynch
John Zaiss got some “spot on” advice from his father before he embarked on a career as a financial adviser: You need to understand accounting.
Flawed law needs to be terminated
During this year’s gubernatorial primary race, it was our pleasure to meet with many individuals and small business leaders from across Montana.
Piercing school number puzzle
It’s a numbers game in Kalispell Public Schools — a numbers game that is hard to keep up with.
Daybook
Forest trail additions approved
Swan Lake District Ranger Richard H. Kehr Jr. has authorized development of more than 35 miles of new trails on Blacktail Mountain.
Wildlife refuge offers stunning views, recreation opportunities
Out in the remote area of Pleasant Valley lies a massive refuge that offers recreation, beautiful views and excellent opportunities to view wildlife.
Summer storm knocks out power for 2,100
A brief but windy storm Saturday evening brought down trees and power lines, knocking out electricity for more than 2,100 Flathead Electric Co-op members.
Saturday, July 7
Glacier Challenge runs for a cause
Of all the difficulties the annual Glacier Challenge endurance race presents, it seems one of the biggest has been to keep it running smoothly.
Brown, Brist 5k Literacy run champions
Carson Brown of Kalispell and Nicole Brist of Whitefish were individual winners Saturday at the Literacy Volunteers of Flathead County 5k Fun Run and Walk.
Medley, Lee take Fourth of July Tournament titles
WHITEFISH — Andrew Medley of Scottsdale, Ariz., shot a 4-under 68 on the North Course on the final day of the 76th annual Fourth of July Tournament Saturday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club to claim a two-shot victory in the 54-hole event.
Key win for Lakers over Mavs
MISSOULA — Cody Dopps drove in three runs and Dillon Eaves and Adam Frandsen both had two RBIs as the Kalispell Lakers dumped the Missoula Mavericks 11-6 in AA American Legion baseball play on Saturday.
Outlook for trial orchards optimistic
An early-season evaluation of five of the orchards where trees in the Flathead County cherry variety trials program are growing was filled with optimism.
Zaiss-Johnson Group in Kalispell
John Zaiss, right, and Mark Johnson are pictured at the Merrill Lynch office Monday morning in Kalispell. Doug Johnson, a third member of the Zaiss-Johnson Group, is not pictured.
2 kayakers rescued on McGregor Lake
Strong winds down tree
Strong winds from a storm on Saturday evening caused part of a tree to break and rest on a house on Seventh Avenue West in Kalispell.
Power line down
The Kalispell Fire Department closed down a section of Eleventh Street East after a storm caused a part of a tree to break and land on a power line Saturday night in Kalispell.
Minnie Mary Torgerson 74
Minnie Mary Torgerson, 74, of Olney passed away at her home on July 2, 2012.
Bette Jo Murray, 85
Bette Jo Murray, 85, passed away June 29, 2012, in Kalispell.
Frances Mary (Mole) Benson, 92
Frances Benson died June 21, 2012, at Roseburg, Ore., of natural causes.
Larry Ronald Nye, 70
Larry Ronald Nye, 70, of Kalispell and formerly of New Cumberland, Pa., passed away at home on July 2, 2012.
Whitefish Golf Club Tourney
Maggie Crippen of Missoula digs her way out of a bunker in the Fourth of July Tournament at the Whitefish Golf Club on Saturday. Crippen tied for second.
Kristy Dritshulas Bakker, 45
Kristy Dritshulas Bakker, 45, lost her battle with breast cancer and “quietly slipped into God's loving arms” on Wednesday, June 27, 2012. She was surrounded by her loving family, who tenderly saw her through her journey.
Eye on the Ball
Logan Lindholm of Kalispell drives the ball during the Fourth of July Tournament at the Whitefish Golf Club on Saturday. Lindholm finished fourth.
Fourth of July Tournament
Lake Andrew Medley of Scottsdale, Ariz. tees off at the Whitefish Golf Club during the Fourth of July Tournament in Whitefish on Saturday, July 7.
Collision
Lakeside QRU personnel talk to children involved in a two-car collision at the intersection of 82 and 93 in Somers on Saturday morning, July 7.
Hoops in Bigfork
From left to right, Tabitha Bair, 15, and Shae Schmidt, 15, from Missoula go up for a rebound during the 3-on-3 Battle of the Bay Jamboree in Bigfork on Saturday, July 7.
Battle of the Bay
Matt Jensen of the Lakers from Bigfork blocks Hailey Ruggels of the Princess and the Frogs from Kalispell in the co-ed division of the second annual 3-on-3 Battle of the Bay Jamboree in Bigfork on Saturday, July 7.
Game On
Logan Taylor, 12, from Bigfork scores a basket in the second annual 3-on-3 Battle of the Bay Jamboree in Bigfork on Saturday, July 7.
5K Fun Run and Walk
Nicole Brist, 17, from Whitefish finishes first for the women in the Literacy Volunteers of Flathead County 5K fun run and walk in Kalispell on Saturday morning, July 7.
Literacy Volunteers 5K
Carson Brown, 14, from Kalispell punches his way through the ribbon as he crosses the finish line first in the Literacy Volunteers of Flathead County 5K fun run and walk in Kalispell on Saturday morning, July 7.
Vegas woman has several pending court hearings
A 48-year-old Las Vegas woman is getting one more chance after she and one of her attorneys did not appear at a June 28 arraignment hearing in Flathead District Court.
Daybook
Kalispell man denies 4th DUI
A 34-year-old Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday in Flathead District Court to what would be his fourth offense of driving under the influence.
Glacier the backdrop for climate lessons
Glacier National Park is the poster child for climate change, according to Melissa Sladek, science communications specialist for the Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center and National Park Service.
Scout maps out ALERT landing zones
When 16-year-old Troop 17 Scout Hugh Ramlow was considering what service project he would undertake to achieve his Eagle rank, he had no idea that the project he’d choose could potentially help save lives.
Friday, July 6
Gauthier, Mariners crush Cranbrook in John R. Harp Tournament
Robbie Gauthier held Cranbrook, B.C., to three hits and Bradley Pichler and Dalton Molzhon both drove in two runs as Mission Valley opened play in the John R. Harp Tournament on Friday with a 12-0 victory at Griffin Field.
Lindholm, Hickok tied after 36 holes; Lee tops women's field at Fourth of July Tournament
Logan Lindholm of Kalispell and Kramer Hickok of Plano, Texas, are tied atop the leaderboard after 36 holes at the 76th annual Fourth of July Tournament at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Airborne pest control
Crop-dusting expert Mike Campbell of Dutton pilots a Cessna A188B spraying a wheat field off West Valley Drive Friday morning. The spray is targeting the orange wheat blossom midge, an annual threat to wheat in the Flathead Valley. The spray was initiated after the CHS Agronomy Team discovered the midge in its larval stage. Spraying will continue Monday and is not harmful to humans or animals.
Kristy Dritshulas Bakker, 45
John R. Harp Tournament
Mission Valley Mariners pitcher Robbie Gauthier fields the ball Friday afternoon during the John R. Harp tournament at Griffin Field.
Troop 17 Scout Hugh Ramlow
Troop 17 Scout Hugh Ramlow, center, reviews his research of ALERT landing zones and geographical terrain with ALERT Chief Pilot Ken Justus, left, and Kalispell Regional Medical Center Foundation President Tagen Vine.
Hugh Ramlow
Hugh Ramlow is pictured with his parents, Jim and Alma Ramlow of Whitefish and ALERT Chief Pilot Ken Justus.
Graphic graffiti prompts complaint
Graffiti was reported outside the tunnel between the baseball fields and the college, “some of it very inappropriate with naked women and blood,” according to
Bette Jo Murray, 85
Margaret L. Wildin, 100
Margaret L. Wildin, 100, a former civil service secretary, passed away of natural causes on Monday, July 2, 2012, at a care facility in Great Falls.
No-wake zone?
Proposals to limit boat wakes on Echo Lake have stirred up strident opposition from some Echo Lake residents. In this July 2012 photo, Ashley and Zoe Chapman swim near the Echo Lake Causeway.
Echo Lake
Laura Davis baits a hook while her husband Charles fishes off the edge of the Echo Lake Causeway Friday afternoon at Echo Lake. The causeway is closed to vehicle traffic due to high waters. Friday, July 6, 2012 in Echo Lake, Montana.
Kevin 'Cab' Johnson, 83
Star Spangled Banner in Bigfork
Glacier Symphony and Chorale tenor John Pearson sings the National Anthem on the balcony of Grille 459 in Bigfork on July 6. The national anthem will be sung Friday through Sunday until the end of August.
National Anthem in Bigfork
John Pearson sings the national anthem on the balcony of Grille 459 in Bigfork Friday. The anthem will be sung Friday through Sunday at 10:15 a.m. until the end of August.
Gas Line Crash
The Kalispell Fire Department and Evergreen Fire Rescue provide medical attention for the driver of a truck that crashed into gas line on the side of Little Caesars Pizza on North Meridian Avenue in Kalispell on July 6. Kalispell Police Department patrol sergeant Mark Mulcahy said the gas was turned off and the driver was incoherent when emergency crews arrived on scene.
Crop Dusting
Mike Campbell of Dutton pilots a Cessna A188B spraying a wheat field off West Valley Drive Friday morning. The spray is targeting the Orange Wheat Blossom Midge, an annual threat to the wheat in the Flathead Valley. The spray was initiated after the CHS Agronomy Team discovered the midge in it's larval stage. Spraying will continue Monday and is not harmful to humans or animals. Friday, July 6, 2012 in Kalispell, Montana.
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Summer tours ahead at Bibler Gardens
The Flathead Valley Community College Foundation will host summer tours of the Bibler Home and Gardens July 23 through 27.
Summer session starts Monday
Flathead Valley Community College launches its five-week Session B summer courses Monday, July 9.
Parade driver later hits home
Steve Peterson of Kila is in jail after being in the limelight twice on Wednesday.
Columbia Falls man sentenced for insurance fraud
A 61-year-old Columbia Falls man was given a six-year deferred sentence June 28 in Flathead District Court after a jury convicted him of insurance fraud.
Trail worker recovering after Glacier fall
The Glacier National Park employee injured Tuesday in a fall from the Highline Trail to Going-to-the-Sun Road is recovering at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Daybook
Libby man sentenced for felony theft
Samuel Haley Rose, formerly Harry Paul Mottsman, was given a five-year suspended sentence Thursday in Flathead District Court after pleading guilty to felony theft.
Reservoir hits record pool level
Lake Koocanusa hit a record pool elevation of 2,459.7 feet Wednesday, 0.7 feet above the reservoir’s normal full pool behind Libby Dam.
Garden makes city a better place
Sometimes, it’s the small touches that help build a community.
Lindholm, Lee lead 4th of July tourney
WHITEFISH — Kalispell’s Logan Lindholm and Great Falls’ Morgan Lee hold the early leads after the first day of the Fourth of July tournament at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Legion Roundup: Mission Valley sweeps Rangers
EUREKA — The Mission Valley Mariners A came out with two tough conference victories on the road, sweeping a doubleheader at Kootenai Valley on Thursday.
Thursday, July 5
Fireworks, fires and bears - oh my
Officers with the
Boy, 10, hit in face by fireworks
A 10-year-old Kalispell boy is in stable condition at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Spokane after being struck in the face by fireworks Wednesday night in Hungry Horse.
Larry Ronald Nye, 70
Local color
A hint of rainbow lights up the sky north of Kalispell while a canola field glows in the foreground.
Frances Mary (Mole) Benson, 92
Caleb Kingery
Caleb Kingery of Kalispell suffered severe facial injuries from a fireworks accident on Wednesday.
Bradley Scott Trogden, 5
Good food, good music and great deals
Fire Map
Mountain Biking In Missoula Montana
Swimming with Gwen Jorgensen
Worth the wait
Lillian Fenster practices her putting in her new apartment at Sykes. Fenster said she loves the light and the view of her new home.
Apartments at Sykes
The common area on the second floor looks over one of the larger decks at Sykes on Tuesday, July 3, in Kalispell. The area is currently empty but was being measured that day for new furniture.
The Montana Band
The Montana Band plays at Freedom Fest on July 4 at Great Northern Veterans Peace Park in Whitefish.
Cherry Trials
Detail of a grower examining the leaves of a cherry tree at the Sweet Cherry Variety Trials on Flathead Lake on Thursday, June 28, in Yellow Bay.
Fly Fishing Thompson River, MT
Bighorn Sheep
Two of eight Bighorn sheep along the Mount Henry Trail in Glacier National Park on July 2.
Mount Henry Trail
Hikers make their way up Mount Henry Trail to Scenic Point in Glacier National Park on Monday, July 2.
Two Medicine
The view on July 2 to the west from Scenic Point Overlook in Glacier National Park, from left to right, Appistoki Peak, 8,143 feet, Sinopah, 8,160 feet, Mount Helen, 8,250 feet, and Rising Wolf Mountain, 9,491 feet.
Old Divide Moutnain Lookout
In Glacier National Park an old abandoned lookout tower sits on the ridge of Divide Mountain, 8,665 feet, is located at on the border of the park just south of St. Mary Lake.
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Daybook
Public access rights upheld
Last week’s jury ruling in favor of Flathead County and its boat launch on Church Slough was an important victory for the public and access to public waters.
Twins AA drop opener in Spokane
SPOKANE — The Glacier Twins AA got their hits, but couldn’t get past the Billings Royals on Wednesday, losing 4-2 in the opener of the Spokane Wood Bat Classic.
Wednesday, July 4
Lillian Haser, 97
Lillian (Griner) Allread Haser died July 1, 2012, at her home in Dora Lake, Minn.
Richard Zielke, 67
Police respond to complaints about fireworks
Officers with the Columbia Falls Police Department responded to fireworks calls on Wildcat Drive and Nucleus Avenue.
Grant requests sent off for Columbia Falls business
Two applications for community development block grants for a new manufacturing business in Columbia Falls were sent off this week, according to Tina Oliphant, vice president of finance at Montana West Economic Development.
Graffiti cleanup set for July 14
A community-wide graffiti cleanup day in and around Kalispell is scheduled for Saturday, July 14, Kalispell City Council member Phil Guiffrida III said.
Woman recognized for years of service on police commission
A Kalispell woman was recognized Monday for serving nearly four decades on the city’s police commission, a volunteer body that helps screen and interview candidates for the police force.
Public access rights upheld
Last week’s jury ruling in favor of Flathead County and its boat launch on Church Slough was an important victory for the public and access to public waters.
Kalispell looking for qualified firms to tap for projects
Kalispell is seeking statements of qualifications from local engineering firms to be able to call them for professional services as various projects arise that don’t need to be put out for bid.
Music continues in Bigfork series
The Riverbend Concert Association’s summer series continues in July in Bigfork.
Couple plead guilty to meth distribution
A Kalispell couple busted with more than a pound and a half of methamphetamine last fall pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute the illegal drug Monday in U.S. Federal Court in Missoula.
2 artists on tap in C. Falls
Music will begin early at the Columbia Falls Lions Club Summer Music Series concert July 12 at the bandshell in Marantette Park.
Administration shifted at C. Falls High
Columbia Falls High School will see a change in leadership next year.
Kalispell to get PBS station
Kalispell will get its own PBS station this fall.
Evelyn Marie Lundstrom, 92
Evelyn Marie Lundstrom, 92, passed away on Jan. 3, 2012, of natural causes at Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center in Whitefish.
'35 Artists Celebrate 35 Years' with Bigfork museum
The Bigfork Museum of Art and History has been displaying and selling the work of Montana artists since its inception in 1977. During the month of July, the gallery will feature the works of 35 individuals who have contributed to the museum’s success with the exhibit, “35 Artists Celebrate 35 Years.”
Flathead Lake Boat Parade
Boats made their way to Somers in the Flathead Lake 4th of July Boat Parade on Wednesday. The boat parade started in the Lakeside Bay.
And the Band Played On
Marty Weimer 56-years-old from Kalispell and the Flathead Valley Community Band returned to the Bigfork 4th of July parade this year after playing in Kalispell last year. Next year will be the 40th anniversary for the FVCB.
Bigfork 4th of July Parade
Parade-goers lined both sides of Grand Dr. in Bigfork on the 4th of July as parade floats and participants waved and threw candy to them on Wednesday.
Bigfork Playhouse at the Parade
Bigfork Summer Playhouse actors David Brumfield from Prairieville, La., (left) and Mollie Craven from Austin, Tx. are dressed in costume for the Bigfork 4th of July parade. Every year the playhouse enters a float in the parade, and hands out costumes to the actors to wear.
Day of celebration
Sisters Chloe White, 3, (left), and Kaylie, 7, sit in their grandfather Doug’s car before the Bigfork Fourth of July parade Wednesday. The White sisters are here from Canada celebrating the U.S. hoiday and Kaylie’s birthday.
Waiting on the Parade
Brian Nehall from Swan Lake waits for the Bigfork 4th of July parade to begin on Wednesday. Nehall says his wife talked him into driving his camouflaged 1972 American truck in the parade this year.
Midway Swap Meet and Farmers Market
Whitefish Mountain Resort opens new zip line
Whitefish Mountain Resort opened a new zip line called Inspiration on Tuesday, expanding the popular amenity on Big Mountain.
Fun fundraiser will benefit military children
A silent auction and mini-carnival Friday evening and Saturday will raise money and solicit gifts for “Hero Packs” for children of soon-to-be deployed National Guard or Reserve soldiers.
Whitefish dredging wraps up
A dredging project in Whitefish Lake to remove petroleum-laden sediment left by a 1989 train derailment has been completed ahead of schedule and in time to clear equipment away for the Fourth of July, one of the busiest days for watercraft traffic.
Koocanusa level keeps going higher and higher
Lake Koocanusa will be allowed to rise two feet above the normal maximum level in the latest effort to limit downstream flooding.
Daybook
Enjoy the 4th: Holiday highlights
America celebrates its birthday today and the Flathead Valley will be part of the party with events from Polebridge to Polson. Here’s a roundup of Fourth of July fireworks shows and parades planned in Northwest Montana today:
Tuesday, July 3
Lakers lose two to Chargers
After being delayed for three hours before the start of a conference doubleheader against the Great Falls Chargers, the Kalispell Lakers AA were never able to keep momentum, dropping both games on Tuesday.
Park employee injured in fall
Glacier Park workers carry an injured trail worker to the ALERT helicopter Tuesday afternoon on Going-to-the-Sun Road.
Where's a dog to do its business?
The owner of a business on Second Avenue East contacted the Kalispell Police Department after guests at a nearby hotel were bringing their dogs over to the business to let their dogs relieve themselves because hotel management would not let the guests take their dogs on hotel property.
Koocanusa level keeps going higher and higher
Lake Koocanusa on Friday was near the top of Libby Dam. The Army Corps of Engineers is now able to raise the water level 2 feet above the normal maximum elevation.
Airport vote grounded
It was a bit early for July 4, but fireworks flew Monday as the Kalispell City Council killed an airport referendum nearly set for November’s general election.
Independence Day
An American flag waves in the wind Tuesday afternoon above the Perkins parking lot on U.S. 2 in Evergreen.
Lakers AA Baseball
Dillon Eaves, 17, of the Kalispell Lakers continues to pitch in spite of a light rain on Tuesday afternoon in the game against the Great Falls Chargers.
Paul Eugene Jones, 86
Phyllis O. Ekblad, 83
Ray Davis Jr., 76
The Rev. Ray Davis Jr., 76, passed away on Friday, June 29, 2012, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell.
Roberta Noreen 'Bobbi' Nygaard, 70
Roberta Noreen “Bobbi” Nygaard, 70, of Whitefish passed away on July 2, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Hospital in Kalispell. She was such a fighter and she faced her illness head-on, but once her body got too tired to fight anymore, she then faced death head-on, as well.
Front page news video
Monday, July 2
Lindy Ness, 84
Daybook
Chargers edge Lakers
The Great Falls Chargers pulled out a 3-2 American Legion baseball AA conference victory over the Kalispell Lakers at Griffin Field on Monday.
Edwards to play for Gonzaga
Glacier High School standout Ryan Edwards has made a verbal commitment to play basketball at Gonzaga University.
Men's top 3 back for Fourth of July golf tournament
The top three finishers from a year ago return for the men while a new championship will be crowned on the women’s side at the 76th annual Fourth of July golf tournament at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
Sun Road travelers can expect two work zones
Travelers on Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park will encounter two stretches of road work on the west side of Logan Pass.
Airport to privatize security force
Glacier Park International Airport last week got its long-awaited approval to privatize the airport security force, a move the airport director says will enhance customer service.
Ryan Edwards
Glacier’s Ryan Edwards puts up a shot during a home nonconference basketball victory over Whitefish in this Jan. 20, 2012, file photo. Edwards will play his college basketball at Gonzaga.
Lakers Baseball
Kalispell Lakers Dillon Matteson slides safely into second base on a steal during Monday’s American Legion baseball conference matchup with Great Falls at Griffin Field.
Marion School addition two-thirds finished
The Marion School addition is on schedule to be completed before school starts Sept. 4.
Local crops look to have solid season
The early outlook for the Flathead Valley cherry harvest is good, county Agriculture Extension Agent Pat McGlynn says.
Kalispell hires new assistant fire chief
Jon Campbell will be Kalispell Fire Department’s new assistant chief, Fire Chief Dave Dedman said Monday.
Aerial spraying aimed to stop wheat pest
Flathead Valley wheat farmers are preparing to launch an aerial assault on the orange wheat blossom midge (short for midget).
Moose on the loose in the city
A caller reported a large cow moose eastbound along West Idaho Street to the Kalispell Police Department Sunday night.
Still 'time For responsibility'
Woman, 91, works to stamp out TB
At 91, Polly Nikolaisen has found a way to help stamp out tuberculosis and help handicapped children by working with canceled postage stamps while sitting in her easy chair at Buffalo Hill Terrace.
Glacier National Park
Road construction is under way between Haystack Creek and Big Bend on the upper stretch of Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park.
Wayne Noel Powell, 71
Wayne Noel Powell died on March 15, 2012, in Jefferson City, Mo.
Polly Nikolaisen
Polly Nikolaisen, 91, collects canceled stamps to send to a Norwegian institution called Tubfrim, which sells the stamps to collectors to raise money for tuberculosis research as well as to help handicapped children.
Last of the Snow in the Bridgers
Laps Up Deep Creek
Montana dry fly fishing.
Canyon Ferry Giant Walleye
Fishing the Missouri
Smith River
Team USA. THIS IS IT.
2012 U.S. Olympic trials Men 200m FINAL
Caroline Queen Looks to Paddle Her Way to an Olympic Podium in London: Road To London
Fast-moving fires prompts new evacuations
BILLINGS — Two fast-moving wildfires triggered new evacuations in southeastern Montana on Monday as firefighters battled a potent combination of lightning strikes, dry weather and flame-whipping winds.
Sunday, July 1
Lakers tip Cannons for 3rd place at Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial Tournament
WHITEFISH — The Kalispell Lakers defeated the Spokane Cannons 4-3 in eight innings on Sunday to place third in the 28th annual Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial Tournament.
Canadian woman counseled on restroom etiquette
A Quebec woman in a motor home at First Avenue West and Third Street West was counseled by a
Southside community garden takes root
In a matter of just three weeks, a city-owned boulevard on the south side of Kalispell was transformed from a weed-infested plot with four-foot high grass to a community garden with planting boxes and rock and tile walkways.
Beverly Jean Cuffe, 83
Monday Profile
Tenacity pays off for Kalispell writer
A long-held dream is coming true for a Kalispell writer.
Fourth promises parades, fireworks, family fun
Patriotic folks around the Flathead Valley will be flying the flag and celebrating America’s birthday the old-fashioned way this Fourth of July.
Week in Pictures: June 25 - July 1
Kalispell offers to sell leftover land
The city of Kalispell is trying to sell off a narrow strip of land at the southwest corner of North Meridian Road and Three Mile Drive.
Splat! New paintball park opens near C. Falls
Add paintball to the bevy of recreational offerings in the Flathead Valley.
Help for the heart: Patients rely on ventricular device to keep key organ pumping
Flathead Valley residents Russell Harold and Dennis Swensgard suffer from advanced congestive heart failure, but a system called a HeartMate II makes their hearts work better.
Fireworks OK in county, limited in some cities
Local law enforcement agencies are preparing for increased efforts on Independence Day as well as the enforcement of fireworks regulations.
It's up to the people now
The U.S. Supreme Court has rendered perhaps its most momentous decision in decades in upholding the Affordable Care Act on a 5-4 vote Thursday.
Does Joe Biden have his head in 'The Clouds'?
“If we do everything right, if we do it with absolute certainty, there’s still a 30 percent chance we’re going to get it wrong.” —Joe Biden, speaking to members of the House Democratic caucus, Feb. 6, 2009
It was the 'Last Best Place' - now, not so much
Before you read this, please take a moment and go outside. Take a big breath in and feel our pure, crisp, clean air we are so privileged to have. Look around at your surroundings, see the mountains, the trees and notice the beauty of this place.
Camp offers cancer patients a place to connect with family
For people diagnosed with cancer, there really isn’t a vacation from the disease. But camp For One Another provides a retreat away from hospital and doctors’ visits.
One day, the handwriting won't be on the wall
I am a dinosaur. I know this because I not only receive the AARP Bulletin every month; I find much of it pretty interesting.
Daybook
For One Another
