Monday, March 31
Girl wisely refuses ride from strange man
A woman called the
Great Northern Brewing Co. expansion begins
The beer business is booming in Montana, and for Great Northern Brewing Co. the growing demand for microbrews means has prompted the Whitefish brewery’s first expansion project in 19 years.
House campaign relies heavily on veterans
U.S. House candidate Ryan Zinke of Whitefish says his campaign for Montana’s lone congressional seat is coming together with a distinct characteristic: “The face of the campaign is very much veteran.”

Elizabeth 'Betty' June Wright Hull, 90
March 8, 2014, Elizabeth “Betty” June Wright Hull “left this earth for a better place.”

Spring break crafts
Sophia Dykhuizen, 10, of Kalispell, works on a felted flower project with Elizabeth Sproul at Camas Creek Yarn on Monday in Kalispell. Every day this week during spring break, Camas Creek offers craft classes for children beginning at 10:30 a.m. The classes are held at the downtown location. For more information call: 755-9276. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Amtrak schedule changes April 15
Amtrak’s Empire Builder passenger trains will operate on a temporary modified schedule starting April 15 due to freight train congestion.
Bigfork lakeshore decision stalled
The Flathead County commissioners on Monday postponed a decision on a major lakeshore variance permit to further study the proposal and wait until the full commission is present for a vote.

Elizabeth 'Betty' June Wright Hull
Kootenai Forest gets new leader
A new supervisor has been picked for the Kootenai National Forest.
Sunday, March 30
Alternative route: Complementary medical practices abound in the Flathead
The Flathead Valley is fortunate in many ways, especially medically. With two hospitals among the best in the Inland Northwest and dozens of independent medical practices, Flathead residents are well-served for a rural area.
Police make repeat visits to unhappy home
The

Xanterra boss has big job this year
Gearing up for a busy summer in Glacier National Park in just a matter of a few months has been a big challenge for Marc Ducharme, but being the general manager of the Glacier Division for Xanterra Parks and Resorts also comes with promising opportunities.

Friend makes special pledge to cancer victim
Longtime friend pledges to help cancer victim
Vivian Gelormino dearly hopes she can shave her head on April 30.

Susan Lynn Smith, 60
Susan Lynn Smith, 60, of Columbia Falls, died March 27, 2014.

Susan Smith

Sarah Lynch Fundraiser
Vivian Gelormino, left, and her best friend Sarah Lynch on Tuesday, March 25, near Helena Flats. Gelormino is trying to raise $30,000 for Lynch's cancer treatment bills by April 30th. If she succeeds she will shave her head. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Marc Ducharme
Marc Ducharme is general manager of the Glacier Division of Xanterra Parks and Resorts. March 26, 2014 in ColumbiaFalls, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
Saturday, March 29
Prep softball: Polson, Libby start season 2-0
POLSON — Despite early morning rain, the Polson Lady Pirates opened up the 2014 softball season with two home victories, beating Butte Central, 6-1, and Anaconda, 9-1, in Class A nonconference action on Saturday afternoon.
Pirates roll past Hamilton, Libby in tennis openers
POLSON — The magic number for Polson on Saturday in dual tennis action with Libby and Hamilton was six.
Bigfork's Morleys lead way at track opener
RONAN — Bigfork’s Logan Morley had the top times in the 800 (2:10) and 1,600 (4:40) and his sister Makena Morley easily won the 800 (2:16) to open the high school track and field season Saturday at the Ronan Invitational.

Students hear from Innocence founder
For Flathead Valley Community College’s forensic science and corrections classes, having a speaker like Peter Neufeld come to Kalispell on Tuesday was a treat.
Klitschko backs billionaire for Ukraine presidency
2 held in death on Montana Indian reservation
Take pride in your roadway
As the snow has disappeared, we see an immense amount of trash on our roadsides. I would like to propose a plan for the consideration of the residents reading this.
Protect the grizzlies
I have lived in Montana since 1983 and reside within 300 yards of Glacier National Park. Glacier is a vibrant wilderness (even if not officially classified as such) and supports healthy wildlife populations including the endangered gray wolf, wolverine and grizzly bear.

Black Death
In this Wednesday, March 26 photo, Don Walker, a human osteologist with the Museum of London, holds the skull of one of the skeletons found by construction workers under central London's Charterhouse Square, while posing for photographers. Twenty-five skeletons were uncovered last year during work on Crossrail, a new rail line that's boring 13 miles (21 kilometers) of tunnels under the heart of the city. Archaeologists immediately suspected the bones came from a cemetery for victims of the bubonic plague that ravaged Europe in the 14th century. The Black Death, as the plaugue was called, is thought to have killed at least 75 million people, including more than half of Britain's population.

London skeletons reveal secrets of the Black Death
Health fees receive mixed reaction
After operating for most of a school year, the new Student Health Center at Flathead Valley Community College has seen more than 300 students even though it is only open approximately 12 hours a week.
More on idioms, but just 'don't have a cow'
I was surprised by the number of comments I got from readers about my last column, which focused on some of the idiomatic expressions in different parts of the country.
In week, Mexico finds 370 abandoned child migrants
Train accident would be devastating
In response to Bob Herron’s response dated March 18 to my letter:
Support school drama programs
Recently I attended Columbia Falls High School’s production of the renowned play, “Bye Bye Birdie.” I was struck by the superior effort put forth by the student-actors and actresses, not to mention the live orchestral accompaniment.
Putin, Obama discuss solution to Ukraine crisis

Brown-Morrison
Brad and Desi Brown of Kalispell, together with Jon and Shonda Morrison of Kalispell, announce the engagement of their children, Caitlin Zoey Brown and Calder Jay Morrison.
Does it make a difference? You bet it does...
“With all due respect, the fact is, we had four dead Americans! Was it because of a protest or was it because of guys out for a walk one night that decided they’d go kill some Americans? What difference at this point does it make?”

Baby bonanza: Young mom at helm of businesses geared to children
As a young mother of two, Jade Carpenter knows how important networking with other parents can be. That’s why she has two growing businesses — and a third on the way — to enable parents to tap into not only a range of baby products but also the expertise and resources that can benefit families.
Builder part of White House workshop
Columbia Falls-based SmartLam — the only manufacturer of cross-laminated timber in the country — had a voice on the national stage at a high-profile wood products workshop offered by the White House Rural Council in Washington, D.C.

Burn victim recalls 'horrific' ordeal
A storm was rolling in that fateful July 2013 evening in Williston, N.D., as Casey Malmquist stood on the back deck, watching the weather and killing time before dinner with a celebratory glass of wine and a cigar.
Southern California rattled by swarm of quakes
Crimea's Tatars condemn annexation, seek autonomy
Water compact dialogue: March Madness - An 0-30 record
I think a bit of history might be in order here. After being away from the area for a few years, in early 2003, I was approached by the Flathead Joint Board of Control (and asked if I would be willing to return and work on the Flathead Indian Irrigation Project’s operation and management transfer issues.
Man cuts woman and steals purse
Man's sentence deferred for embezzlement
A Columbia Falls man has been given a deferred sentence after embezzling several thousand dollars from the Kalispell KFC restaurant.

Prom
Darrian Morrison, right, and Gabriel White find a secluded area to share a dance Saturday night during prom at Flathead High School. March 22, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
Water compact dialogue: 50 legislators request independent review
Agreeing each vote should be an informed vote, 50 Montana legislators recently requested independent review of the proposed Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ Water Compact.
So why do college students need remedial math?
Per article “College tries to meet changing needs of students” in Daily Inter Lake on March 26, it seems to me the larger question would be, Why are college-bound students in need of remedial MATH classes?
Local march against child abuse planned at Kalispell mall
Community members are encouraged to join in the local Million March Against Child Abuse, being held locally in conjunction with Share Fair 2014 on April 5 at the Kalispell Center Mall.
Taliban again attack Afghanistan election offices as vote nears
Utah boy finds American Indian remains in backyard

Weavers celebrate 60 years
Art and Barbara Weaver celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on March 9 with their children at a dinner at Jagz Restaurant.

Fleming-Johnston
R.H. Goose Fleming and Marcia Fleming, both of Kalispell, announce the engagement of their daughter, Amber Jo Fleming, to Cody Wayne Johnston, son of the late Ben Killburn, and late Jeff and Peggy Johnston.
Daybook
World Trade Center security chief resigns
Parachute jumpers, a 16-year-old daredevil and a sleeping security guard have made the site of the nation’s tallest building — and the nation’s worst terrorist attack — look dangerously easy to breach.
Fire chief gets kudos for handling of mudslide
40 Days for Life responds to clinic attack
In response to the many articles and events surrounding the recent vandalism at All Families Health Care, the Kalispell area 40 Days for Life Leadership Team feels compelled to comment.
Drummond group looks at sanctuary for wild horses
CFAC pollution control a top priority
One would think that prompt and rigorous water quality permitting for the Columbia Falls Aluminum Plant would be a top priority for the Montana Department of Environmental Quality.

Casey Malmquist
“It’s surprising how pain persists,” Casey Malmquist says of his recovery from severe burns.
Black box detector to join Malaysian jet search

Dancing the night away at Prom
Is free speech intended for everyone? Or just liberals?
What is it about liberals that makes them so afraid of free speech, free thought and free expression of ideas, especially on college campuses?

Dan Gordon Fleck, 50
Dan Gordon Fleck, 50, passed away on March 25, 2014.

Stacy Lynn Fleck, 50
Stacy Lynn Fleck, 50, “went to be with her ever-loving Lord” on Monday, March 24, 2014.

Natalie and Casey Malmquist
Natalie and Casey Malmquist were married in 2012. They celebrated their first wedding anniversary while he was hospitalized for severe burns. (Photo courtesy of B2 Photography)

Little Guy Wrestling
Trent Wilson, 9, of Polson, wrestling in the championship round of the novice 80 weight class against Tucker Masters of Libby at the Little Guy State Wrestling tournament on Saturday, March 29, at the Northwest Montana State Fairgrounds. Wilson won by decision 7-2. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Keith V. Mitton, 58
Keith V. Mitton, 58, passed away at his home in Evergreen on March 21, 2014, from heart and respiratory failure.

Bobby 'Max' Ogle, 79
Bobby “Max” Ogle was born June 8, 1934, in Sevierville, Tenn.
Friday, March 28
Two people dead in apparent murder-suicide
Boys causing trouble in Evergreen
Teen gets 70 years for family killing
Plan closes some roads in Helena National Forest
Hamilton woman denies charges related to man's stomping death
Appeals court rules in favor of meat labels
$1 trillion student loan debt widens wealth gap
Every month that Gregory Zbylut pays $1,300 toward his law school loans is another month of not qualifying for a decent mortgage.
Army Corps to begin killing birds at dams
Nuke test cheating linked to flawed leadership

Survivor tells of wave of mud hitting home

Spring snow
A fresh layer of snow covers logs in the yard Friday at Plum Creek Timber Co. in Columbia Falls. Parts of the Flathead Valley received up to 4 inches of snow from the spring storm.
Organizers battle over Evel Knievel Days
Daybook
New Mexico zoo evacuated when bear cub escapes
Whitefish teachers get new contract
Whitefish school trustees on Friday approved a three-year contract with teachers that includes a 1.5 percent increase on the base salary for the current school year.
Indian voting case proceeds

Mudslide survivor
Robin Youngblood survived the massive mudslide that hit Oso, Wash., on Saturday and was rescued by a helicopter as she floated on a piece of a roof.
Obama meets with Saudi king about Syria
Feds bust meth ring
Idaho university preparing for guns on campus

Students pitch in for oral history project
'‘From the ground up’
About 15 Linderman Education Center students have documented one Kalispell woman’s life in agriculture through audio, photography and written narratives.
Poll: Obama health law fails to gain support
New management plan for bison floated
Jobless rate dips to 8.3 percent
Flathead County’s unemployment rate improved slightly in February, posting at 8.3 percent compared to 9 percent in January.
Four cases of Ebola turn up in Guinea's capital

Bomb threat unfounded
Sr. Airman Jessica Woodall and German shepherd dog Gina prepare to search Columbia Falls Junior High School for explosives Thursday night.

Vera May Heinrichson Ripplinger, 86
Vera May (Seney) Heinrichson Ripplinger, 86, of Kalispell, “went to meet with her heavenly Father” March 26, 2014, in Kalispell, due to a brain aneurysm.

Bobby 'Max' Ogle, 79

Test Coupon

Barb Abbott
Barb Abbott is retiring as art teacher at the Kalispell Senior Center. March 28, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Cheryl Fritz
Cheryl Fritz Thursday afternoon at Linderman Education Center in Kalispell. March 27, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Bomb threat at school unfounded
A bomb threat scrawled on a bathroom wall at Columbia Falls Junior High School was taken seriously enough by school officials to have an explosive-sniffing dog and its handling team brought in to search the school Thursday night.

Bomb search
Sr. Airman Jessica Woodall and German shepherd dog Gina prepare to search Columbia Falls Junior High School for explosives Thursday evening. (Chris Peterson/Hungry Horse News)
Thursday, March 27
Daybook
Friday, March 28

Slide rescuers battle rain, exhaustion
It's good thing that Walsh is above 'politics as usual'
I am certainly glad that the Democrats, including the brilliant and totally honest Senate majority leader Harry Reid and Gov. Bullock, didn’t conspire with the appointment of John Walsh to fill Baucus’s Senate seat just so Walsh could get a little name recognition for this year’s Senate race, presumably against Republican Congressman Steve Daines.
Co-op supports 'clean hydro' power
We want to make our Flathead Electric members aware of something that has been a part of the Northwest way of life for over 75 years, yet is often overlooked: how hydropower dams and the incredible power of the Northwest’s rivers benefit our daily lives.
Man pleads not guilty to killing dad with bat

Fleming-Johnston
Helena student charged with bomb threats

Brown-Morrison
Rush to judgment against Christians?
The reactions to the abortion-clinic vandalism in our paper have been of great concern to many of us. The facts are we have a suspect who is a troubled young man who acted out in a very wrong and unfortunate manner. No one has condoned this action. All of the details are currently unknown yet many in the community have and already tried this young man. Many appear prejudiced and presume to know his mind and motives. This deeply troubled young man does deserve a fair trial first. Ironically there has been hate mail sent by some who are angry about this so called hate crime. The hypocrisy is glaring on many levels.
Pope, president find common ground - and divisions
State leaders sign Medicaid petition
Man pleads not guilty in Polson hammer attack
State won't pursue charges in justice court thefts
Sentence deferred for Somers gunman
A Somers man who fired between 80 and 100 rounds outside his home has been given a three-year deferred sentence.
Busy FVCC student honored as Newman fellow
Ryan Pitts doesn’t get a lot of sleep.
Columbia Falls student tops in regional math contest
Columbia Falls High School senior Yeo Chung is one of the top math students in Montana.
Kalispell man admits lurid phone contact with teenage girl
A 22-year-old Kalispell man has admitted having inappropriate contact with a 13-year-old girl over a phone.
Our vote for mother of the year
Congratulations are in order for Sabrina Wisher, a Kalispell single mother of four who recently was named Montana Mother of the Year by American Mothers. The Montana governor’s office nominated Wisher for the state award, and she’s headed to Colorado next month for the national competition.
Montana gets $28 million for conservation
Commanders fired in missile cheating scandal

Weaver
Power outage affects North Valley
Thousands of Flathead Electric Co-op members lost power during an extensive outage Thursday afternoon after a piece of Bonneville Power Administration transmission equipment failed, affecting several co-op substations and 8,500 members, covering most of the North Valley area. Most of those members had their power restored within an hour. A further roughly 2,000 members lost power for a few seconds at a time as power loads were switched during repairs.
Christie administration cleared in probe it hired
Was it a hate crime? You decide
I had the pleasure along with my wife and son, of helping Susan Cahill transform the ground floor of a venerable old home into the cheerful and attractive All Families Health Care Medical Clinic — a clinic where Susan Cahill would continue to provide loving medical service to hundreds of her patients. Loving? Just ask her clients, or read the letters currently in the paper from those who chose her for medical attention.
Columbia Falls man sentenced for rape of girl, 13
An 18-year-old Columbia Falls man who had sex with a 13-year-old girl will see limited incarceration.
Former Cabinet officer Schlesinger dies
Ryan Zinke: Proven leadership
I first met Ryan Zinke, a Montana U.S. House candidate, in the early 1990s when he was serving as a member of SEAL Team Six, one of our nation’s elite counter-terrorism units. As one of the Navy’s outstanding officers, Zinke was hand-picked and rigorously screened to lead our country’s finest men and women on complex and dangerous missions.

Washington mudslide firefighters
Darrington Fire District 24 volunteer firefighters, Jeff McClelland, Jan McClelland and Eric Finzimer embrace Wednesday after saying a prayer for the victims and survivors of the massive mudslide. They were among the first responders.

Big crowd turns out to support clinic owner
It was standing-room-only in Flathead District Court on Thursday as nearly 100 people attended the hearing of a man accused of massive vandalism at the All Families Healthcare clinic in Kalispell.

Helen L. Jones, 77
Longtime Kalispell resident, Helen L. Jones, 77, passed away peacefully at her home on March 25, 2014.

Zachary Klundt in Court
Susan Cahill gets a hug from a supporter following Zachary Klundt's court appearance on Thursday, March 27, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Patt's Jewelry

Amethyst Jewelry
Beautiful earrings and ring to match!

Pocket Watch

Woman who killed husband gets 30 years

Necklace

Killer's bid to withdraw guilty plea rejected
MISSOULA — A federal judge on Thursday denied Jordan Graham's bid to renege on her guilty plea to killing her husband last summer in Glacier National Park.
Photos Twitter Feed
The week's highlights

Great Pretenders

Quartet features the 'Power of Song'

Ryan Pelton

Elvis comes to life in Bigfork
Local fiddlers seek votes in worldwide talent search
Auditions set for French farce 'Boeing Boeing' in Whitefish

The Nerd

Meet 'The Nerd' in Bigfork
Read up for History Book Club

Michael Christensen RGB

Other Desert Cities

Family drama 'Other Desert Cities' in Whitefish
Glacier Symphony and Chorale scholarships offered

You Can't Take It With You
Rachel Bjork plays Mrs. Kirby, Aaron Robinson is Tony Kirby, Josie Jolly is Alice and Jessica Mount is Penelope Sycamore in Glacier High School's production of "You Can't Take It With You."

'You Can't Take it With You' at Glacier

Lucky Dollar
Back row, from left, are Sydney Loudermilk, Emmalee Hellen, Bella Smith and Micah Dunham. Eli Brown, as Lucky Dollar, kneels in front.

'Lucky Dollar' a light mystery in Bigfork
Glacier softball waits on fieldwork
For now, they have to wait.
Townsend on target
Alana Townsend knows how to focus.
Wednesday, March 26
Students embark on practice run for new testing
Montana students have put down their No. 2 pencils for keyboards to take the new Smarter Balanced test.
Peter Lawrence Reynolds
Peter Lawrence Reynolds, son of Matt and Rosemary Reynolds of Kalispell, was born March 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Millions could get extra time for health sign-ups
Gage Anthony Gebbia
Gage Anthony Gebbia, son of Joseph Gebbia and Cristina Cook of Whitefish, was born March 6 at North Valley Hospital.

Donated lumber boosts Habitat project
Plum Creek donated and delivered 700 manufactured lumber studs to the Habitat for Humanity build site Tuesday in Columbia Falls.
Woman gets sentenced for endangerment
A Kalispell woman has been given a three-year deferred sentence after being found under the influence during a testy traffic stop last August.
Deputies asked to officiate raffle pricing
A disgruntled man contacted the
Griffin Allen Blazer
Griffin Allen Blazer, son of Andy and Maggie Blazer of Whitefish, was born March 15 at North Valley Hospital.
Students from tiny school win $140,000 award
Oliver Robinson Powell
Oliver Robinson Powell, son of Anthony and Rebecca Powell of Columbia Falls, was born March 1 at North Valley Hospital.
Bankrupt co-op, creditors reach deal
Prosecutors oppose killer's bid to back out of her guilty plea
A Kalispell woman facing sentencing for pushing her husband off a cliff in Glacier National Park last summer should not be allowed to withdraw her guilty plea to second-degree murder, federal prosecutors argued Wednesday.
In court
Caring about cancer's victims
This summer we will celebrate Bigfork’s 10th “Relay for Life.” Relay for Life is a community gathering to raise money and awareness, to find treatments and cures in the fight against cancer.

Satellite spots 122 objects in search for missing jetliner
Anaconda man dies in motorcycle crash on Tuesday
$1.2 million technology requests to face voters
Schools mail out ballots April 21
Kalispell Public Schools will ask voters next month to approve 10-year technology tax levies of $600,000 a year for the elementary district and $600,000 annually for the high school district.
Lillyandra Olexey
Lillyandra Olexey, daughter of Skot Lopan and Arisa Olexey of Kalispell, was born Feb. 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Daybook
Organizer? Of what?
We are now witnessing what happens when a community organizer, with no discernible credentials, is elected as the leader of the free world… The world starts becoming less and less free. Are you paying attention, America?
Glacier Park to take bids on chalet contract
The National Park Service has released a prospectus for a new concession contract to operate Granite Park and Sperry chalets, historic backcountry lodges in Glacier National Park.

New map highlights 88 park hikes
After hiking all of Glacier National Park’s 734 miles of trails in one summer and starting a blog about hiking in the park, Jake Bramante started getting peppered with the same question:
Supreme Court bolsters gun ban law for domestic violence

Snowy Mountain
Vehicles travel along U.S. 93 Friday night as the sun sets on Big Mountain. The snow keeps piling up at Whitefish Mountain Resort, with almost 2 feet of new snow in the past week and a current base of 135 inches of snow at the summit.
Weston Williams
Weston Williams, son of Josh and Holly Williams of Columbia Falls, was born March 12 at North Valley Hospital.
Grim reality: Some slide victims may never be found
Energy exports are vital U.S. interest
It’s encouraging that President Barack Obama at least paid lip service to the idea of making Europe less dependent on Russian gas during his visit to Brussels this week.
Emma Lynn Anderson
Emma Lynn Anderson, daughter of Nathan and Lindsay Anderson of Kalispell, was born March 15 at North Valley Hospital.
Bin Laden's son-in-law convicted
Harper Lee Lawshe
Harper Lee Lawshe, daughter of Jay Lawshe and Amanda Burt of Kalispell, was born March 11 at North Valley Hospital.

Missing plane
This graphic released by the Malaysian Remote Sensing Agency on Wednesday shows the approximate position of objects seen floating in the southern Indian Ocean in the search zone for the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370.
Now is a great time to catch kokanee salmon
Kokanee salmon are a very popular fish in the West and certainly so here in Northwest Montana. The kokanee salmon is delicious fried, baked, grilled, smoked and canned.

Bank gives riverside strip to foundation
Glacier Bank has donated a 30-acre strip of wetland property along the Flathead River near Bigfork to Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation.
Nissan recalls over 1 million vehicles
Man gets 10 years for Billings bank robbery crime
Police seek charges against 5 people in inmate escape

Donated land
A section of land along the Flathead River north of Flathead Lake has been donated to the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation by Glacier Bank.
What does Declaration of Independence say about abortion?
An article in the Daily Inter Lake in January said that Sen. Max Baucus’s leftover campaign account held by the Friends of Max Baucus donated $5,000 to “Emily’s List,” a Washington group that helps elect women who support abortion rights. This article compelled me to give my opinion against abortion and present the truth that’s in the Declaration of Independence.
Information limited on shooting deaths
Kalispell police have identified the victims in Tuesday’s apparent murder-suicide as Stacy and Dan Fleck, both 51.

Marc Ducharme
Marc Ducharme is general manager of the Glacier Division of Xanterra Parks and Resorts. March 26, 2014 in ColumbiaFalls, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Razzamataz
Razzamataz performs Wednesday afternoon at the Montana Veterans' Home in Columbia Falls. March 26, 2014 in ColumbiaFalls, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Habitat for Humanity donation
A pallet of manufactured lumber studs is unloaded Wednesday afternoon at Habitat for Humanity’s Columbia Falls Affordable Housing project. Plum Creek donated 700 studs that will be used for framing two more houses.

Montana Innocence Project
Peter Neufeld, co-founder of the Innocence Project, talks to forensic science and corrections students Tuesday afternoon at Flathead Valley Community College.

Keith V. Mitton, 58

Katherine Marie Pierce, 77
Katherine Marie Pierce, 77, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2014, surrounded by her loving family.
Betty J. Durtsche, 89
Betty J. Durtsche, 89, passed away on March 23, 2014, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Sarah Lynch Fundraiser
Vivian Gelormino, left, and her best friend Sarah Lynch on Tuesday, March 25, near Helena Flats. Gelormino is trying to raise $30,000 for Lynch's cancer treatment bills by April 30th. If she succeeds she will shave her head. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Profile: David Brendgard
Flathead Lake Brewing Company Lead Brewer David Brendgard at the still under construction facility in Bigfork on Thursday, March 13. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Frozen Lake McDonald
Foot prints can be seen in the snow over a frozen section of Lake McDonald near the dock at Apgar on Wednesday morning, March 26, in Glacier National Park. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Jake Bramante
Jake Bramante has produced a map guide to Glacier National Park day hikes.
Flathead Deals (Deadeline Deal)
Tuesday, March 25

Vikings celebrate basketball perfection
The scoreboard said it all.
Sheriff: No charges likely in fatal home shooting
Phoenix judge spares life of dog that mauled child
Man sentenced after driving in front of train
College tries to meet changing needs of students
Despite offering education at a fraction of the price of larger state schools, Flathead Valley Community College realizes its role is to address the quickly changing needs of students.
Houston Ship Channel reopened to limited traffic
Daybook
Wednesday, March 26
Superintendent lauds community support for schools
Darlene Schottle touted new programs and increasing student enrollment and graduation rates in Kalispell schools at a Kalispell Chamber of Commerce luncheon on Tuesday.
Havre man arrested after woman's death
Officer crawls to woman's rescue
A

Chicago train derailment
A Chicago Transit Authority train car rests on an escalator at the O'Hare Airport station after it derailed early in the morning, injuring more than 30 people.

Emergency brake failed to stop Chicago train
Ski area: snowboarders' suit demeans Constitution
Yellowstone won't use 'biobullets' for bison
Navy: Base shooting suspect didn't have own weapon
Lawyer: Troopers destroyed evidence in cold case
Montana doctor says murder suspect fit for trial
Birth control rule seems to divide Supreme Court
WASHINGTON (AP) — Seemingly divided, the Supreme Court struggled Tuesday with the question of whether companies have religious rights, a case challenging President Barack Obama’s health overhaul and its guarantee of birth control in employees’ preventive care plans.

Washington mudslide
Rescue workers remove one of the bodies from the wreckage of homes destroyed by a mudslide at Oso, Wash. Scores of people are still missing after a wall of trees, rocks and debris swept through the rural community on Saturday.

Scientist warned of mudslide danger 15 years ago
Abortion, pro-life issues spice up first GOP House candidate debate

Bigfork Basketball
Players sign autographs after the banner unveiling Tuesday night at Bigfork High School. March 25, 2014 in , Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Les Schwab Shootout
Flathead senior Matt Quist (13) jumps over freshman Kelsey Noland-Gillespie during the dunk contest Tuesday evening at the 13th Annual Les Scwab Shoot Out at Whitefish High School. March 25, 2014 in , Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Husband, wife dead in shooting
A man and woman are dead following an apparent murder-suicide early Tuesday morning in northwest Kalispell.

Riebe's Machine Works Inc

Party Favors
Let us custom design the favors for your next celebration. Cupcake soaps are not only useful and decadent, but they are also calorie free! Perhaps you would like some creamy soap truffles, mini bubble bath bombs, or a beautifully designed soap in your party colors that can be stamped with your names, a date, or anything your heart desires. (Custom made stamp incurs an additional cost). Call us to discuss your design ideas at 406-871-2902

We wish you could smell this through the screen!

Our lineup is stacked!

Barbara Toycen Amestoy, 81
With the passing of a family member Mom would always say, "One less spoke in the wheel," meaning one less member in our family circle. It has now become her turn.

Jane W. Winkley, 77
Jane Wells Winkley was born in Norwood, Ohio, on June 22, 1936, to John and Ruth (Morgan) Wells. She joined her brothers Ralph, Don and Ivan and sister, Mary.

Biz: Nature Baby Outfitters and Flyin' Fish Kids Gym Expansion
Jade Carpenter and her three-year-old daughter Vanora in the Nature Baby Outfitter section of Flyin' Fish Kids Gym on Tuesday, March 25 in Whitefish. Nature Baby Outfitters will be expanding into the space next door and adding a kids consignment section. The expansion is expect to be complete by May. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Lee Burton Spain, 80
Lee Burton Spain, 80, passed away March 13, 2014, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Roger Louis Johnson, 77
Roger Louis Johnson passed away June 20, 2013, at the age of 77.

Murder Suicide in Kalispell
Law enforcement investigators work at the scene of an apparent murder-suicide on Fly Way in northwest Kalispell on Tuesday morning.

Murder Suicide in west Kalispell

Arctic Breeze Gel Pillow

10" Supreme Memory Foam

E-Z Rest Mattress Outlet

Bella Pedic 12" Italian Memory Foam
Alexine 'Lois' Buchanan, 95
Monday, March 24
Casazza resigns as WHS boys basketball coach
Mark Casazza has resigned as head boys basketball coach at Whitefish High School.

Elizabeth Hupp

Elizabeth 'Betty Lou' King Hupp, 85
Margaret L. 'Peggy' Person, 97

Colombowala surgery

Harold Lockhart

Kalispell doctor a leader in heart-monitor surgery
John Andrew Broers, 69

Harold Best Lockhart, 84
Stolen saddle adds insult to injury
More workers needed in home health care

Harold Lockhart recent
West Valley has strong showing at state science fair
Flathead Valley students achieved an impressive number of awards in the Montana State Science Fair March 17-18 in Missoula.

C. Falls brothers win honors for ambitious science project
One Norick brother can be tough competition at a science fair, but pair the two together and they are a force to be reckoned with.

Week in Pictures: March 17-23

Colter and Colin Norick
Colter and Colin Norick will showcase their research at the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair in May where more than $4 million will be awarded. The international fair features high school students from more than 70 countries. (Photo provided by Tara Norick)

Diabetic snowboarder Sean Busby rides 7 continents
While a few of his former teammates were competing for gold, silver and bronze, Sean Busby of Whitefish was rounding out a set hardly any Olympian can dream of.
Malaysian leader says plane went down in ocean
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — It was the unwelcome, anguishing news that families of the missing had dreaded, and when they heard it from Malaysia’s prime minister Monday night there were shrieks and intense heartbreak: The missing Malaysian Airlines flight whose fate was a mystery that consumed the world had crashed into a remote corner of the Indian Ocean.
Kalispell council tackles long-range planning
The Kalispell City Council will discuss long-range planning direction for the city airport along with a possible update for the city’s Urban Renewal Plan at a work session tonight.
Miya Brooklynn Groshelle
Miya Brooklynn Groshelle, daughter of Tevin Groshelle and Gabrielle Meyers, was born March 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Keira Lynn Larson
Keira Lynn Larson, daughter of Brian and Kylie Larson of Eureka, was born March 3 at North Valley Hospital.
Natalie Monroe Nieter
Natalie Monroe Nieter, daughter of Tony and Scarlet Nieter of Kalispell, was born Feb. 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Megyn May Bogut
Megyn May Bogut, daughter of Scott and Karyn Bogut, was born Feb. 17 at North Valley Hospital.
Oliver Leo Becker
Oliver Leo Becker, son of Joseph and Shana Becker of Kalispell, was born Feb. 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Skyluna Day Radatti
Skyluna Day Radatti, daughter of Dano and Kelly Radatti of Whitefish, was born March 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Hope Raelyn Walters and Serenity Grace Walters
Hope Raelyn Walters and Serenity Grace Walters, daughters of Scott Walters and Ashley Haviland, were born Feb. 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Ivan James Curtis
Ivan James Curtis, son of Wes and Meaghan Curtis of Lakeside, was born March 10 at North Valley Hospital.

Lee Burton Spain, 80

Roger Louis Johnson, 77
Sage Isabella Steward
Sage Isabella Steward, daughter of Jaron and Brenda Steward of Kalispell, was born March 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Bentley William Wilson
Bentley William Wilson, son of Scott Wilson and Chelsey Broyles of Kalispell, was born March 5 at North Valley Hospital.
Allison Ann Newsome
Allison Ann Newsome. daughter of Josh Newsome and Chante Hampton of Kalispell, was born March 1 at North Valley Hospital.
Aubry Lee Nicholson
Aubry Lee Nicholson, daughter of Zane Flint and Emily Nicholson of Columbia Falls, was born March 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Sunday, March 23
Man gets prison time for molestation
A Columbia Falls man is headed to prison after molesting two young girls.

'A heart for young people'
4-H agent an avid advocate for youth program
There’s a reason Tammy Walker wakes up every morning as Flathead County’s biggest advocate of the 4-H youth organization.

Sean Busby
In a February 2014 photo provided by Sean Busby shows Sean Busby splitboarding through the High Atlas Mountains near Marrakech, Morocco. By riding the highest mountain range in North Africa, Busby became the first person with Type 1 diabetes to snowboard on all seven continents. (AP Photo/TwoSticksAnd ABoard.com)

Profile: Tammy Walker
4-H Extension Agent Tammy Walker in her office on Thursday, February 6, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Man sentenced for drunk driving episode
A Kalispell man who led local law enforcement on a low-speed chase in a stolen car, drove through a fence and nearly hit a police officer before ramming a deputy’s car, has been given a suspended sentence.
Roger Kenneth Lambertus Jr., 48
Roger Kenneth Lambertus Jr., 48, of Kalispell, “joyfully went to be with his Lord and Savior” on March 17, 2014.

No bull: DeShon scores 74
“It’s not a cowboy helmet; it’s a cowboy hat,” Kody DeShon said with a laugh moments after riding out a bull named Sin City at the 2014 Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo at Majestic Valley Arena on Saturday night.

Rocky Mountain Classic
Kash Wilson of Gooding, Idaho, rides during the bareback event Saturday night during the second performance of the 2014 Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo at Majestic Valley Arena.

Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA

Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo
Friday night during the first night of the Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo at Majestic Valley Arena. March 21, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
Saturday, March 22
Glacier boys soccer coach resigns
Glacier High School is looking for a new head coach for its boys soccer program.
C-Falls, Libby players named all-state in basketball
Columbia Falls’ Jared Trinastich, Winter Kemppainen and Cydney Finberg and Libby’s Jared Winslow were all named to the Class A all-state basketball teams on Thursday.

May Crystal Mauritsen, 94
May Mauritsen was born May Crystal Bellerud on May 9, 1919, to Norwegian immigrant father Ole Martin Bellerud and second generation Danish immigrant mother “Nellie” Carrie Agnes Nelson. May was born and attended school where her folks owned a mercantile store, in Nekoma, N.D. She was the second child of three, with two brothers, Melvin and Alister.
Violence wrong but so is abortion
In the early morning hours of March 4, 24-year-old Zachary Klundt allegedly broke into and vandalized Susan Cahill’s abortion clinic in Kalispell, destroying much of what was there with a viciousness that was sickening. Klundt was caught attempting to break into another building nearby with $915 in his pocket, shards of glass on his clothing and cuts on his hands. Klundt has been charged with four felonies, bail has been set at $100,000, and he is scheduled to be arraigned on March 27.
4 men sentenced in Bakken drug cases
Pastors speak out against violence
We are writing as local pastors of Kalispell-based evangelical congregations. As much in our public discourse these days is intentionally divisive and argumentative, we hope this letter has the opposite posture. Nothing in this letter comes from a position of declaring a moral high ground or an attempt to speak to the current debate between pro-life and pro-choice.
Keep North Fork skies and water clear
My home is the North Fork of the Flathead. I have spent many nights staring up at the stars and Northern Lights, far from the lights of town. I still enjoy seeing the faces of people who are visiting the North Fork for the first time. They always seem overjoyed to discover a place that is so wild, so natural and so beautiful in this day and age.
Mother pleads guilty to child endangerment
A Kalispell mother has pleaded guilty to charges after driving drunk with her 5-month-old and 10-year-old children in the vehicle.
Woman: Not enough colors in rainbow
Baker Avenue residents called the

Mom's efforts get national attention
Sabrina Wisher doesn’t see herself as anyone special.
Barge leaks oil into Galveston Bay after collision
Glad the crime did not result in death
I just read the letters to the editor in the March 16 paper, and felt I must add my voice.

Rabbitt-Lamb
Montana voices on Medicare
In Montana, we work hard, play by the rules and we honor our word. It’s too bad our Congress doesn’t operate in the same way.
Sheriff: 3 killed in big Wash. mudslide
Daybook
Sunday, March 23
Satellite detects object in jet search area
Missing plane
Women must make own choices
The Global Coherence Initiative measured a dramatic increase in heart energy around the world after 9/11. It seems in times of trouble we really do feel each other’s pain. I pray for the young man who allegedly destroyed the All Families Healthcare clinic in Kalispell. If he is guilty, he made a hard choice by following anger. I pray for the clinic owner, clients, staff, property owner and our community that has been hurt.
Special coach transforms teen
Piles of snow plowed and shoveled alongside driveways and sidewalks and stuffed into center lanes on city streets may be a flickering memory for the Flathead, but our winter playground provided some lifetime memories for athletes who participated in Special Olympics Montana last month.

Scovel-Stafford
Dusk and Zenna Scovel of Kalispell, together with Cynthia and Christopher Masten of Kalispell, announce the engagement of their daughter, Sara Rose Scovel, to Charles Anthony Stafford, son of Christine and Christopher Stafford of Kalispell.
Community should support caring health professional
In 1994, I was a photojournalist working in Kalispell when I was called to a story: A health clinic had been firebombed.
It takes a community to feed our children
March is National Nutrition Month and what a better time than now to thank all the groups and individuals who help nourish our hungry kids.
Don't blame Christians for act of one criminal
After reading some recent letters to the editor in the Daily Inter Lake I find that I cannot hold my tongue any longer regarding the vandalism to Susan Cahill’s clinic.

Kingery-Knaff
Tiffany Kingery and Chresten Knaff were married Oct. 5 at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, with Col. Samuel Birky of Lakeside officiating.
Livingston woman killed in rollover crash
Ex-nurse found guilty of having sex with inmate
Pro-Russian forces storm Ukrainian base in Crimea
Short-range rockets fired for 2nd day
North Korea
Restore our values
Thank you, Eric Knutson, for your March 20 letter to the editor. I have been fuming over Mr. Martinez’s letter of March 18 regarding abortion and could not stay calm enough to respond.

Adney-Jones

Bitterroot Screen Printers expands
Bitterroot Screen Printers has outgrown its facility and recently moved into a bigger space.
Death Cafe invitation
I was pleased to see the Feb. 25 article on Death Cafe in the Active Seniors section. Death Cafe is a nonprofit, international movement started in England in 2011. The purpose is to gather for respectful, open dialog about all aspects of death and dying. It’s neither a bereavement group nor a place to proselytize, just a time to enjoy insightful conversation over tea and light refreshments.
Dancing on the brink of annihilation
Sending John McCain and John Kerry into the Ukraine to demand Russians comply with their notion of liberty was a windfall for Russia. Obviously, Abbot and Costello were no longer available.

Leahy-Jerman
Christians try to follow all of God's rules, not just one
Extreme vandalism on any person’s property or business is a very shameful thing. This suspect’s life and family are changed forever. However, to read the rhetoric coming from Susan Cahill, her husband and former and present patients of the All Families Healthcare clinic, it was CHRISTIANS who perpetrated this terrible act of “terrorism” on the Flathead Valley.
Support Lake County efforts to protect key tourism assets
What do restaurants, motels, vacation rentals, gas stations, grocery stores, retail stores, plumbers and real estate agents have in common?
The short unhappy life of Obamacare
It’s been four years since President Obama’s signature health-care overhaul, Obamacare, was signed into law.

Sloth bear
A newborn sloth bear cub is cared for at the veterinary hospital at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C.
Millions to test new education assessments
Ag expert wows local farmers
Maarten Fischer’s reputation proceeds him.

Board meeting: Nate Chute snowboard races set fundraising record
Pro snowboarder Jason Robinson of Whitefish claimed a giant check and a palm tree trophy March 16 after winning the 15th annual Nate Chute banked slalom and boardercross races at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
State must resist tribes' lawsuit
By all means, Montana Attorney General Tim Fox should engage in a lawsuit filed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes in federal court over water rights on the Flathead Reservation.

Snipstead-Moore

Board meeting
Chelsea Smith of Whitefish carves around a gate during the Nate Chute banked slalom races on Saturday at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Celebrating the season of Lent
Brothers to lead mass together at Kalispell church
A very brotherly celebration of mass will take place today as part of the celebration of the season of Lent at St. Matthew’s Roman Catholic Church in Kalispell.

Audiologists deal with range of hearing issues
Hearing isn’t a luxury, it’s a quality of life.
Free or paid? Why we ask our readers to buy the paper

Valee E. (Jenkins) Lewis, 91

Robert Edwin Lay, 70
He always said he'd go until there was nothing left. On, Sunday, March 16, 2014, Robert E. “Bob” Lay ran out of life.

Donald Russell Nichols, 85

Pam Okon, 47, and Meghan Sierra Okon, 9
This is the story about an amazing woman, a vibrant little girl, and their extraordinary life together. It's about Pam and Meghan Okon, their life, their love and how they left us far too soon.

Lenten Mass at St. Matthew's
Father Rod, 53, and his brother Father Cliff Ermatinger, 49, are pictured at St. Matthew’s Roman Catholic Church in Kalispell, where they will be celebrating mass together today.
Rodeo: Back in the saddle
Dan Yates, at age 36, is on the comeback trail.
Local talent looks to win 'Aces' tour
The inaugural Smoking Aces Tour, a freestyle skiing and snowboarding tour throughout Montana, concludes today on Big Mountain at Whitefish Mountain Resort with the Ace of Spades Tour Championship scheduled to start at noon.
Friday, March 21

Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo
Dan Yates of Red Lodge leaps off his horse during the steer wrestling Friday night during the first night of the Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo at Majestic Valley Arena. March 21, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
Motel fire claims four lives

Two speech coaches win state laurels
Two top speech coaches reached significant milestones last weekend.

O'Donnell
Suspect accused of blowing up gates
A man formerly from Marion has pleaded not guilty to a pair of felony charges after being accused of blowing up an electronic gate at a neighboring property.

National Zoo saves sloth bear cub after two others eaten
Sentencing set for killer
The Associated Press
Daybook
Saturday, March 22

Flathead Valley killer Robert Kowalski
Robert Kowalski
Feds helping to investigateHelena school bomb threats

Flathead Valley killer now on trial in Alaska

Christensen
'Extraordinary riddle' of lost jet now 2 weeks old

Baby-sitter rapist gets five years in prison
A Whitefish man is headed to Montana State Prison for raping a 15-year-old baby sitter.
Nuns ask federal judge to keep lawsuit in place
FBI agent cleared in Fla. shooting

Youths learn distracted-driving lessons
Kalispell Middle School eighth-graders use their thumbprints and signatures in a commitment not to text and drive. From left are Gracie Spence, Erica Braig, John Hinchey, Keegan Siebenaler, Emily Pederson, Eric Reyna and Nick Brester.
Montana to rework bison roaming plan
No one hurt when gun goes off

Teacher gets surprise reunion with top pilot
Glenda Northcutt meets her former kindergarten student, Thunderbirds pilot Jason Curtis, following an air show March 15 at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale, Ariz.
Turkish Twitter ban appears to backfire
Suspect being sought in Browning bank robbery

Crimea goes east, Ukraine goes west
Russian President Vladimir Putin signs bills making Crimea part of Russia in the Kremlin on Friday. (AP Photo)

J.D. Covington, 85
On March 18, 2014, our beloved husband, father, grandfather and former Richland Bomber head football coach J.D. Covington “went to walk beside his Lord” after a valiant and courageous struggle against an unforgiving rare, brain disease, CBD.

Robert Edwin Lay, 70

Bitterroot Screen Printers
Jerry Kinniburgh inspects a screen at Bitterroot Screen Printers’ new location at 365 Seventh Ave. EN in Kalispell, in the former Open Hearth building along Whitefish Stage Road.

Audiologists deal with range of hearing issues
Audiologist Jessie Dimmick goes over information with a patient recently at Moore Hearing in Kalispell. (Photo courtesy of Moore Hearing)

Meghan Sierra Okon, 9

Pam Okon, 47

Liposuction of the Neck, Jowls, and Lower Cheeks

Juvederm
We provide more aesthetic injections than any medical facility in the state with natural results that speak for themselves. Injectables are an easy solution to many common issues with facial aging; downtime is routinely little to non. Results are subtle, natural and long lasting.

Non-Surgical Procedures
Our licensed aestheticians and Registered Nurses join together to bring a full range of non-surgical procedures such as facials, waxing, microdermabrasion, Botox, Restylane, chemical peels, permanent reduction of unwanted hair, body contouring and fractional erbium laser services to the repertoire at Whitefish Plastic Surgery.

Patients getting Pixel Laser treatments LOVE the smooth results!

Whitefish Plastic Surgery
Thursday, March 20
Charge upgraded to murder in fatal hammer attack
Lake County prosecutors have amended the charges against a Polson man accused of hitting his father-in-law in the head with a hammer, causing fatal injuries.
Whitefish street project underway
Work began this week on the East Second Street reconstruction project in Whitefish. The street will be reconstructed from just east of Larch Lane to the railroad tracks.
Air search provides 'best lead' yet for Malaysian plane
Missing jetliner
Snow hammers road budgets
Daybook
Marshall Whiteman
Marshall Whiteman, son of Nick and Stephanie Whiteman of Libby, was born Jan. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Man insists on standing in road
A
Griffin Jay Grant
Griffin Jay Grant, son of Joe Grant and Jayci Grayson of Rexford, was born Feb. 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Miles Otis Hodik
Miles Otis Hodik, son of Hevin and Magdalen Hodik, was born Feb. 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Billings woman paid interest of 1,000 percent on $500 loan
Payday loan company forgives debt
Obama can go down as the next Chamberlain
We have a new Neville Chamberlain of the 21st century. At Putin’s demands, President Obama has withdrawn the missile shield from Poland and Czechoslovakia and received nothing in exchange. He has signed a START treaty where we disarmed and the Russians did not, yet his Democrat minions and RINOs in the Senate ratified it. He has not allowed us to develop our natural resources such as coal, petroleum, titanium, and other rare earth minerals all of which are crucial in war.
Judge revokes award in inmate death

Rev. Fred Phelps dies at age 84
Westboro Baptist Church leader pushed limits of free speech

Fred Phelps
Fred Phelps displays one of his many infamous protest signs in this file photo.
Two sentenced for felony DUI
Two 33-year-old men were sentenced last week after pleading guilty to felony drunk driving.
Hazel Holmes
Hazel Holmes, daughter of Glen Holmes and Connie Bene of Kalispell, was born Jan. 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

General spared prison in sexual misconduct case
Olivia Emsley Mae Sanford
Olivia Emsley Mae Sanford, daughter of Andrew Vaile and Marlaina Sanford of Kalispell, was born Jan. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Sidney teacher's death: Murder suspect diagnosed as disabled
Horrified by what happened to clinic
I feel the need to write and express my horror at the recent destruction and vandalism at All Families Healthcare clinic. This kind of senseless violence cannot be accepted in our community. Susan Cahill has been a strong and caring advocate for women’s health. She is the least judgmental person I’ve ever met and the respect she has for her patients is boundless. She provides the kind of health care we wish all doctors would give. She listens, never rushes through appointments, and gives her clients the assurance that they are being heard.
Whitefish man accused of stealing from crash victim
A Whitefish man has denied stealing from the home of a Flathead County deputy recuperating from a serious traffic accident.
Mayor: Inmate's death in hot cell is troubling
Man vs. nature in forest planning
The Flathead National Forest held a series of meetings in February trying to use a collaborative effort among many stakeholders to help revise the 2006 management plan. These meetings commenced back in September 2013, went through February 2014, and are to continue with two more meetings in March and four more in both April (geographic areas) and May (management areas). A final report by the forest may not be forthcoming until anywhere from year-end 2014 until 2016.
Woman pleads not guilty to attacking boyfriend
A Kalispell woman has pleaded not guilty to assault after allegedly setting her boyfriend’s truck on fire and attacking him with a knife.
Taliban showing increased aggression in Afghanistan
Congress raises pressure on CIA in torture dispute
Payment ordered in amputation settlement
Woman lost leg after being hit by driver
A Bigfork man has been ordered to pay more than $618,000 in restitution to a woman whose left leg had to be amputated after he struck the motorcycle on which she was riding.
Say no to public access take-away on Whitefish River
The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks is now accepting public comments to a proposed restriction of existing public use for a portion of the Whitefish River. Unless a strong opposition is heard, the river will soon be closed to motorized use for several miles below Whitefish Lake.

Runoff hard on county roads
Erosion damage common problem on gravel surfaces
Flathead County’s gravel roads sustained a fair amount of erosion damage this winter, especially in hilly areas where runoff problems were the worst.
The burdens of Obamacare
We have been told: “If you like your health-care coverage you can keep your coverage.Your doctor? Don’t worry, he or she won’t go anywhere.” There are hundreds of thousands of people across the country who now know this is no longer the case. The promises we were sold when President Obama campaigned on changing health care for the American people are nothing more than a gross distortion.

Dry docks
The docks in Lakeside are high and dry at the end of winter on Thursday.

Brig. Gen. Jeffrey A. Sinclair
Riley Romain
Riley Romain, son of Ian and Elizabeth Romain of Kalispell, was born Jan. 16 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Three Ukrainian warships seized
U.S. announces new sanctions against Russia
All should condemn clinic attack
The vicious attack on Susan Cahill’s All Families Healthcare clinic early in March should provide opponents in the abortion debate a chance for common ground — by condemning violence, illegal activity and possibly vigilantism.
Easton Ryder McGinnis
Easton Ryder McGinnis, son of Ryan and Jessica McGinnis of Kalispell, was born Feb. 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Lindsey Elizabeth Eff
Lindsey Elizabeth Eff, daughter of Andy and Jamie Eff of Kalispell, was born Feb. 13 at North Valley Hospital.

Virginia Therese Nichols Hanson, 85
Virginia Therese Nichols Hanson, 85, passed away on Tuesday, March 18, 2014, at HealthCenter Northwest in Kalispell, surrounded by her family.

Columbia Falls Stage washout
Flathead County Road and Bridge workers inspect a large washout Thursday afternoon on Columbia Falls Stage Road.

Wind tunnel experiments
Children perform wind tunnel experiments Wednesday afternoon at ImagineIF Kalispell. March 19, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
The week's highlights

Gothard Sisters

Gothard Sisters offer night of high-energy Irish entertainment
'My Darling Clementine' showing at Museum at Central School

Local author, illustrator team up for children's book

Jacob and the Giant
Choir concerts at Glacier, Columbia Falls and FVCC
Three more weeks of basketball
The whirlwind high school basketball season came to a fantastic close this weekend. Just in time for another fantastic basketball postseason.
Bigfork boys healthy, rested for state play
The most accomplished team in Montana is entering the state basketball tournament healthy and rested.
Wednesday, March 19
Butte police say man in retirement home died after throat cut
Candidates removed from ballot
Zinke's shown a lifetime of character
I have known Ryan Zinke since we were in the same kindergarten class in Whitefish. From then to now, Ryan has remained my close friend through thick and thin.
Youths win honors at elementary science fair
There were 139 third- through fifth-graders who competed in the final day of the Flathead County Science Fair March 11 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.
Weather, construction, oil delay grain trains
What will be impact of impact fees?
One thing clear about Kalispell’s recent increase in wastewater impact fees is that the jury will be out for some time on what the impact of the fee increase will be.
FFA chapter wins third in state contest
The Flathead FFA Chapter veterinary science team placed third in the state after competing in the newest Career Development Event.
Toyota to pay $1.2 billion penalty
Automaker hid information on vehicle defects
Ukraine to hold military exercises with U.S., Britain
Probe looks for anomalies in Seattle chopper crash
Why some believe abortion is murder
In the March 18 Daily Inter Lake, Steve Martinez provided what I consider another example of preaching hate in the name of civility and tolerance. He wrote, “People who claim to be Christians that call abortion murder and label providers murderers and preach violence against these practitioners and their patients are the real criminals here.”
Mitchell right for commissioner
I’d like to take this opportunity to express my support for Phil Mitchell, Republican candidate for county commissioner.
Insurance exemptions open to interpretation
One of the most controversial parts of the Affordable Care Act is its requirement that all Americans buy or have health insurance this year, or face a tax penalty — but, for many, the requirement may not apply.
Tea Party groups deny link to candidate

School job gets $1 million boost
Whitefish High School to have state-of-the-art facility upgrade
Twelve anonymous donors have committed $1 million to provide Whitefish High School students with state-of-the-art performance and technology facilities at the reconstructed school.
Local Burger Kings get new owners
Burger King restaurants in Columbia Falls and Kalispell have new owners.

Maine man's 'gun' turns out to be tattoo
Car catches fire without explanation
Man sentenced for daylong crime spree
Agency finds leak in gas main at N.Y. blast site
Man arrested in gun incident
A Kalispell man was arrested Tuesday afternoon after law enforcement officers from two agencies responded to a report of a man with a handgun north of Kalispell.
Vandalism robs many of their care provider
Since 1977, Susan Cahill has been my health-care provider. She cared for me and my family, helping us with everything from cholesterol, blood pressure and various illnesses to how to deal with my father’s cancer. With patience and compassion she has been our guide to continued health and well-being. As our daughters entered elementary school, they became her patients as well (though she was in practice with Dr. Armstrong at the time), preferring her gentle understanding of “girl stuff.”
Daybook
Thursday, March 20
Woman facing federal charges rejects four lawyers
Former spokesman for al-Qaida recalls 9/11 talk with bin Laden
Man who tried to kill his dog gets 14 days in jail

Gun tattoo
Michael Smith stands beside a Somerset County deputy outside his home in Norridgewock, Maine. Smith’s gun tattoo led to a response from armed officers on Tuesday.

Construction Continues at Whitefish High School
A view of what will be the main entrance and administrative offices at Whitefish High School on Wednesday, March 19. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

William Keith 'Bill' Smithey, 85

Clifford Johnson Martinka, 75

Graham Case: Prosecutors want life sentence for killer
Federal prosecutors recommended a life sentence for a 22-year old Kalispell newlywed who pleaded guilty to murder for pushing her new husband off a cliff in Glacier National Park.

...or contrast with your chosen tile

Travertine sinks can match...

Tiles
The many choices of glass & metal tile will give any room a look of elegance

Custom Travertine Sinks
Custom travertine sinks will lend an "Old World" look to your bathroom decor

Natural Stone Mosiac
Natural stone mosiacs are a welcome compliment for any floor or shower application

Rocky Mountain Tile and Stone

Watch All the Big Games at Casey's

Voted Best Place to Dance in Flathead County

Live Music

Week in Pictures: March 10-16

Drinks

Casey's Skybar

Casey's
Glacier trio named to all-state basketball team
Tuesday, March 18
Smallest schools have best graduation rates
Eighth-graders in the Flathead Valley recently signed pledges to graduate from high school as part of Graduation Matters Kalispell. The question is, will schools be able to retain these young students four years from now?
Montana State student dies in London
Daybook
Deal goes south; money goes AWOL
Revamp of old jail to start this year
Restoration of Flathead County’s historic old jail building south of the main courthouse is on track, with construction set to begin by late summer.

Courthouse couplet
Charges refiled in hit-and-run death
Panel to examine hunting, fishing fee proposals
No one likes to pay more and get less, except maybe dieters looking for fewer calories in a meal. But that’s the scenario hunters in Montana may be facing in the future.

Rerouting road to east may not work
Courthouse couplet
A state highway official told the Flathead County commissioners on Monday that a design alternative to route all four lanes to the east side of the courthouse when U.S. 93 is reconstructed doesn’t pencil out financially.
Water talks might be reopened
HELENA (AP) — Discussions have been held on reopening negotiations for a water-rights compact with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to include protections for irrigators living on or near the Flathead reservation, the chairman of the Montana Reserved Water Rights Compact Commission said Tuesday.
Sheriff says man killed in apparent burglary attempt
Judge delays Blixseth court appearance
What if missing airplane is never found?
Putin signs treaty to add Crimea to map of Russia

News chopper crash
A helicopter crash Tuesday outside the KOMO-TV studios in Seattle envelops a parked car in flames.

Seattle news helicopter crashes in 'ball of flames'
Medals of Honor bestowed on 24 overlooked heroes
Kalispell raises sewer fee
On a narrow 5-4 vote Monday night, the Kalispell City Council approved a sharp increase in wastewater impact fees after hearing diverse input from the public.

Jeanette Louise (Starr) Lechner, 87

Patricia Ann 'Pat' Knutson, 77
Patricia Ann “Pat” Knutson, 77, of Polson, passed away unexpectedly on Saturday, March 15, 2014, at home in Polson of natural causes.

Rosemary B. West, 94
Alvin Lee 'Al' Gillig, 85
Alvin “Al” Lee Gillig, 85, passed away peacefully Monday, Feb.17, 2014, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls, surrounded by family and friends.
Shirley Jean Peters, 43
Shirley Jean Peters, 43, passed away Saturday, March 15, 2014.

Dorothy Marie Allen Lewis, 78
Dorothy Marie Allen Lewis, 78, passed away on March 15, 2014, in Springdale, Ark.

Bypass construction on Three Mile Drive
Work has begun on what will be the Bypass overpass on Three Mile Drive on Tuesday, March 18, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Andy's Auto Glass Mobile Vehicle

Andy's Auto Glass

Evergreen 1
Evergreen Post Secondary Coordinator Laurel Ekern does everything she can to make sure Evergreen Junior High students continue their education after high school. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

College Certain
What began as just an excuse to get out of class, started one former Evergreen Junior High School student on her path toward a college degree.

Windshield
Monday, March 17
Growing pains: Edwards overcomes mono, tonsillectomy in 1st season with Zags
The journey from the Montana Class AA state basketball tournament to the NCAA tournament was a long one for Gonzaga freshman Ryan Edwards.

Nora Holcomb-Willis obituary

Building bodies: Former competitor gives back through lifting, nutrition clinics
Byrl Berkimer, 73
Woman reported for playing chicken

Jeanette Louise (Starr) Lechner, 87
Two turn lanes to return to West Reserve
Developer plans 76-room motel in Whitefish
Another hotel proposal has surfaced in Whitefish, this time a 76-room Hampton Inn & Suites planned off U.S. 93 South behind the defunct Wendy’s restaurant.
Fundraiser for clinic passes goal

Nora Grace 'Gracie' (Cooper) Holcomb-Willis, 86
State panel to hold hearing on Whitefish River
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a public hearing April 10 in Whitefish to consider amending boating rules on the Whitefish River.
Flathead jobless rate up to 9 percent
Although the statewide unemployment rate continues to decrease, Northwest Montana counties still are struggling in the jobs arena.

Montana Highlanders at St. Patrick's Day
JoDee Anderson on the tenor drum and members Montana Highlanders perform at the Brannigan's Tent on Monday, March 17, as part of the Saint Patrick's Day celebration. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Body Percussion
Glacier students Colin Cordell, a sophomore, and seniors Levi Brown, Nathan Connell and Bodie Henderson perform "S.O.S." a body percussion piece composed by Glacier High School Band Director David Barr.

rodeo 3-17-14 cover

Rodeo 5-14-14

Creative energy: Dancer shares history of teaching, performing with Flathead
Dancer brings long history of teaching, performing to the Flathead
Flathead Deals Maintenance

$10 Deal for $5 at Windiggers Casino!
Sunday, March 16
Count helps shelter in assessing local needs
A total of 362 people in Northwest Montana completed surveys Jan. 23 during the annual Montana Housing Status Survey that seeks to count people who consider themselves homeless or at risk of being homeless.

Choose from 2 Deals Starting at $12.50 from The Bling Shak!
Public restrooms proposed in downtown Whitefish
The lack of public restrooms in downtown Whitefish has been a problem for years, but a solution may be at hand.
Ethyl the grizzly traversing Idaho and Montana
The 20-year-old female grizzly Ethyl has become a seeker, a wanderer.

Learn your vegetables
Lakeside Elementary fourth-graders are enrolled in Veggie U, a hands-on experience learning where food originates.

Veggie U
From left, Dawsyn Thompson, Kadin Gall and Jacob Currier as plant seeds part of the Veggie U program in Lorrie Gomez's class on Tuesday, March 11, at Lakeside Elementary. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Profile: Leslie Yancey
Portrait of Leslie Yancey in her home on Wednesday, March 12, in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Class B state boys basketball: Vikings victorious
BOZEMAN — It wasn’t easy, but they’re perfect.
Saturday, March 15
Class AA state girls: Billings Senior slips past Wolfpack
BILLINGS — Billings Senior outscored Glacier 30-16 in the middle two quarter to post a 50-41 consolation victory on Saturday morning at the Class AA state girls basketball tournament.
Class AA state boys: Bengals knock out Glacier
BILLINGS — Helena High took advantage of a poor offensive third quarter by Glacier to post a 53-39 victory over the Wolfpack in consolation play at the Class AA state boys basketball tournament on Saturday morning.
Class A state girls: Columbia Falls settles for 3rd
GREAT FALLS — Haley Belgarde made two free throws with less than a second left to give Columbia Falls a 54-52 overtime victory over Laurel in the third-place game Saturday at the Class A girls state basketball tournament at Four Seasons Arena.
Bigfork's perfect season ends with Class B title
The Bigfork Vikings added one final win to their flawless season on Saturday night.
What exactly is in the water compact?
Thank you, Mark Agather, for your words regarding the Indian/federal water grab known as the CSKT water compact.
Clinic attack: Supporting clinic with a donation
To those persons or non-persons who trashed the abortion clinic: What would you have? A clean, legal clinic that is safe for women or a dirty, illegal clinic that leaves a woman fatally infected or leaves her bleeding to death? You have your choice! As long as men and women mate, there will be abortions.
Police respond to knife assault
The
Sheriff's Office plans to offer emergency training
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office next month will begin offering Community Emergency Response Training.
New store built without proper zoning
A proposal to amend Whitefish’s zoning code drew the scrutiny of the City Council recently when it came to light that the change might be to aid a single business.
Clinic attack: Doesn't condone violence, but still takes note of 'irony'
I don’t condone destruction of someone’s private property, and I doubt that most people who believe in the sanctity of life are gladdened by the damage done to Susan Cahill’s property. That’s not the way they operate.

Silvers-David
Cally Silvers and Taylor Davis were married Dec. 15 at The Commons in Bozeman. The ceremony was performed by Kevin Kneeshaw.
Clinic attack: Irony seen in Cahill's words and actions
I was taught as a child to always respect other people and their property. Always. Even when I didn’t necessarily like them or what they did. So, I deeply regret that someone violated that teaching and damaged the All Families Healthcare property.
Ukraine says Russian forces move outside Crimea
Coach debate unfolds before board
The chairs were filled at Tuesday’s Kalispell school board meeting for one agenda item in particular — the acceptance of the resignation of Flathead High School head football coach Russell McCarvel after seven seasons.
Clinic attack: Attack on clinic was essentially form of religious terrorism
The recent malicious destruction at All Families Healthcare in downtown Kalispell could be described as vandalism, senseless violence or just plain criminal behavior.

Driven to success: Vehicle sales brisk as Don K completes expansion
The Don K car dealership in Whitefish threw quite a party last week to celebrate the final piece of a transformative multimillion dollar expansion — a new 14,000-square-foot Subaru showroom.
All for water?
Did you read in the paper where the president entertained the Dalai Lama in a back room in the White House? Wow!

Moore-Heinecke
Body cameras raise privacy concerns
Woman found dead on trash conveyor belt
To get the idea, read 'It's Even Worse Than It Looks'
Have you noticed how the pontificators of the Republican persuasion refer to anyone who disagrees with them as liberals? I have never been one to place labels on others, though the terms prevaricator, obfuscator, even liar have recently been added to my vocabulary. I must admit that I also liked the term “bat-crap crazy.”
Clinic attack: For now, abortion is legal, and no one can take law into their own hands
I am writing in a show of solidarity with Susan Cahill, P.A. (“Future uncertain for vandalized clinic,” March 13 Daily Inter Lake).
Clinic attack: 'We cannot ... ever tolerate this kind of behavior'
The recent burglary and extensive vandalism committed against Susan Cahill and her practice, All Families Healthcare, is as hateful a crime as I have yet to see committed here in our community.

Lake-Braaten
Kevin and Inga Lake of Kalispell, together with Erin and Markus Braaten of Kalispell, announce the engagement of their children, Samantha Lake and Sawyer Braaten.

Campus camaraderie: FVCC's intramural program brings students together
From Wii boxing to night skiing on Big Mountain, Flathead Valley Community College students are tapping into the college’s intramural sports program offerings in record numbers.
Police: Butte man killed father with baseball bat
Chicago River dyed green St. Patrick's Day

Lard-Fisher
Darcy Lard and Gene Lard of Lakeside announce the engagement of their daughter, Lindsay Jo Lard, to Lucas Raymond Fisher, son of Ray and Connie Fisher of Hungry Horse.
Subway dig finds prehistoric stash
Comedian David Brenner dies at 78
FBI probes Ravalli Co. treasurer's office
Daybook
Common ground: Stop war machine
As a left-leaning liberal, (tempered by deep blue-collar experience and a year in Vietnam,) I never expected to agree with Anne Bukacek, but I detect a meeting place for right and left. The military/industrial cabal loves the wartime economy and we enter one war after another with little gain except for Halliburton and the like, who benefit so greatly by our privatized armies.
Focus turns to pilots as hunt for jet widens
Obama's promise to review deportations has risks
Clinic attack: Abortion 'service' described as brutality
It is with sadness and disgust I read the letter from our local abortionist, Ms. Cahill, in the March 12 edition, touting herself as some sort of beleaguered heroine. I could not help but think of the over 51 million dead babies who have been slaughtered since the diseased and pernicious Supreme Court of the United States passed Roe v. Wade in 1973.
Clinic attack: Destruction does understandably lead to despair, but reader ties it to abortion
In Thurday’s paper, Susan Cahill says she has been feeling more despair, and she doesn’t trust this community. Her emotions are how I feel every time she takes the life of an innocent child. Just because it is legal, doesn’t make it right in the eyes of God.
Should city double sewer impact fee?
Council takes up critical money issue on Monday
A difficult decision of whether to more than double wastewater impact fees is before the Kalispell City Council, which will hold a public hearing on the matter Monday night.

Store's strategy is to stay one step ahead
The challenge of change
Sportsman & Ski Haus President Dave Harvey remembers well the day his business partner, Chief Executive Officer Mike Gwiazdon, told him there was big competition moving in next door.
Miss Congeniality cited for shoplifting
Crimean referendum is not to be trusted
While living and working in Ukraine I had the pleasure of watching the 1966 American-made movie “The Russians are Coming, the Russians are Coming!” where, without hostile intent, a Soviet submarine runs aground off the shore of New England.
Can government juggernaut ever be stopped?
In order to win elections, Democrats and Republicans have wooed voters by promising them lavish gifts out of the public treasury. The total of these promises is not the $17 trillion that represents the national debt. This is merely what is currently owed. The total unfunded debt for the promises made in exchange for votes over the years exceeds $100 trillion.
Idiomatic expressions reflect our geography, 'Dontcha know'
My husband has a favorite saying for when he hasn’t accomplished much during the day: “I feel like a pea picker with a hole in his sack.”
Ukraine is not our problem
America has again been placed in another very precarious position by Obama threatening Russia for its occupation of the Ukraine. The Ukraine was involved in a civil war at the time and it is bordering Russia.

Van Henry Gilchrist, 86
Van Henry Gilchrist, 86, passed away peacefully at his home on March 14, 2014.
Primary season kicks off in earnest
2014 will be a busy election year, starting with dozens of contested primary races across the state and plenty of them here in the Flathead Valley.
Montana needs high-paying jobs
At RightNow Technologies, I helped grow a small software startup into Bozeman’s largest commercial employer, creating hundreds of high-paying Montana jobs along the way.
A Constitution more or less for the trampling
Too bad we spend so much time yelling at each other about which political party is right and which party is wrong. Too bad we get so easily distracted by the slogans and the backslapping. Too bad that myopia is the national disease, because what we aren’t seeing down the road is much scarier than who wins THIS election or who votes for THAT bill.

Margaret Anne (Platt) Stanley, 76
Margaret Anne (Platt) Stanley’s “room in Heaven became available to her” on March 12, 2014, at the age of 76. She passed away from the effects of scleroderma surrounded by the love of family and friends.

All Saints' Episcopal Church Annual Chili Open and Golf Tournament
Dr. Ben Pomerantz of Kalispell removes his socks and shoes and goes into the water to gain a $50 donation from a teammate at the All Saints' Episcopal Church 7th Annual Chili Open and Golf Tournament on Saturday, March 15. The event serves as a fundraiser for the Flathead Shelter Friends, the Flathead County Animal Shelter, the Flathead Spay and Neuter Task Force, the Humane Society of Northwest Montana and the Kawaa Pomaaka Society. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Roy 'Sam' Sather, 82

Alison 'Big Mama' Fuller Keene, 53
Born Aug. 31, 1960, Alison Fuller Keene passed away from a heart attack due to an enlarged heart at her residence on Feb. 23, 2014. She was 53.

Virginia Mary (Yachechak) Doctor, 94
Virginia Mary (Yachechak) Doctor, 94, passed away March 11, 2014, in Kalispell.
Friday, March 14
Class B state basketball: Bigfork in title game
BOZEMAN — Pushed harder than it had been in months, Bigfork responded from a six-point second half deficit with a 15-0 run, wresting control from Southern B champion Huntley Project to win 68-56 in the semifinals of the Class B state boys basketball tournament on Friday night at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse on the campus of Montana State University.
AA state boys basketball: Top-ranked Helena Capital downs Wolfpack
BILLINGS — Glacier managed to hang with top-ranked Helena Capital for the better part of quarter before the Bruins took over, posting a 63-44 victory in semifinal action at the Class AA state boys basketball tournament Friday evening at MetraPark Rimrock Auto Arena.
Class A state girls basketball: Wildkats rally, but fall short
GREAT FALLS — Hamilton knocked off top-ranked Columbia Falls 44-39 on Friday night at Four Seasons Arena in semifinal action at the Class A state girls basketball tournament.
AA state girls basketball: Sentinel sinks Glacier
BILLINGS — Glacier clamped down on high-scoring Missoula Sentinel for four quarters, but it still wasn’t enough as the second-ranked Spartans claimed a hard-fought 37-26 victory in the semifinals of the Class AA state girls basketball tournament on Friday afternoon at MetraPark Rimrock Auto Arena.
Missing plane: Piracy theory gains more credence
Mitchell Andrew Wilson
Mitchell Andrew Wilson, son of Andy and Rachel Wilson of Kalispell, was born Jan. 13 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Samantha Sanford
Samantha Sanford, daughter of Ryan and Michelle Sanford of Columbia Falls, was born Jan. 12 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
More moose captured south of Libby
Seven cow moose were darted and captured in the East Cabinet study area south of Libby last week and fitted with radio collars.
Employee brings back wrong car
The
Killer caught after 37 years on lam in Florida

Green Auto Group buys Hyundai dealership
The Green Auto Group has purchased Kalispell Hyundai in Evergreen and renamed the dealership Green Hyundai.
Jon Krakauer plans to write book on UM case

He-Man readers get Kindle boost
PAGE PARTNERS
There is power in reading and strength in numbers. Flathead High School’s He-Man Book Club has both.
Man gets 7 years for child porn
House votes 51st time to unravel Obamacare
Daybook
University of Montana student denies charge
Explosion toll may not rise
Hammer attack may have hit wrong man
Prosecutors in Lake County hope to file an attempted deliberate homicide charge against a Polson man suspected of hitting a 67-year-old man in the head with a claw hammer.
Target says it ignored early signs of data breach
Iraqi bill to legalize child marriage criticized
'Into the wild' figure killed by police
Obama to sign bill on flood insurance rates

Roy 'Sam' Sather, 82
Teen father arrested for biting nose off baby
Cooks saved nuclear missile crews from test failure
FBI balks at pot background checks

Doctor gives riveting speech
Life lessons from Ben Carson
Before Dr. Ben Carson began to speak in Kalispell on Thursday, he got a standing ovation from 1,300 people.
Kambria Kvamme
Kambria Kvamme, daughter of Monroe and Ashley Kvamme of Kalispell, was born Jan. 15 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Chevy'Lynn Brosten
Chevy’Lynn Brosten, daughter of Chad and Tasha Brosten of Kalispell, was born Jan. 14 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Panel OKs rules for landowners shooting wolves

Alison 'Big Mama' Fuller Keene, 53
Born Aug. 31, 1960, Alison Fuller Keene passed away from a heart attack due to an enlarged heart at her residence on Feb. 23, 2014. She was 53.

Virginia Mary (Yachechak) Doctor, 94
Lilly Fay Fitzpatrick and Serissa Elaine Fitzpatrick
Lilly Fay Fitzpatrick and Serissa Elaine Fitzpatrick, daughters of Russell and Vanessa Fitzpatrick of Kalispell, were born Jan. 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Cruz Davis
Cruz Davis, son of Willie Davis and Hannah Vanek of Kalispell, was born Jan. 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Finn Campbell
Finn Campbell, son of Seth and Amy Campbell of Bigfork, was born Jan. 31 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kara Wiles
Kara Wiles, daughter of Evan and Jesie Wiles, was born Feb. 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Addison Grace Hill
Addison Grace Hill, daughter of Rusty and Tianna Hill of Whitefish, was born Feb. 22 at North Valley Hospital.
Mackinzie Marie Glidden
Mackinzie Marie Glidden, daughter of Kris and Erin Glidden of Kalispell, was born Feb. 21 at North Valley Hospital.
Giselle Rae Cameron
Giselle Rae Cameron, daughter of Travers Cameron and JoMarie Peterson of Kalispell, was born Feb. 20 at North Valley Hospital.

Sportsman Expands
Exterior of Sportsman and Ski Haus on Friday, March 14 in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

The challenge of change
The Sportsman and Ski Haus expansion project is taking shape, as seen in this view from the nearby Homewood Suites Hilton on Friday. The 30,000-square-foot addition to the Kalispell store is scheduled to open this summer.
Bridget Catherine Reed
Bridget Catherine Reed, daughter of Ryan and Jamie Reed of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 18 at North Valley Hospital.
Natalie Ann Raymond
Natalie Ann Raymond, daughter of Jon and Holli Raymond, was born Feb. 17 at North Valley Hospital.
Griffin Matthew Herset
Griffin Matthew Herset, son of Matthew Herset and Amy Altman of Kalispell, was born Feb. 16 at North Valley Hospital.
Litia Numia Rae Ramatatolo
Litia Numia Rae Ramatatolo, daughter, and Caleb George Ramasima Ramatatolo, son, of Simeli and Jonni Ramatatolo of Columbia Falls, were born Feb. 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Ashley Rose Dector
Ashley Rose Dector, daughter of Mike and Sarah Dector of Columbia Falls, was born Feb. 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Dalilah Grace Sowder
Dalilah Grace Sowder, daughter of Philip Sowder and Sally Arndt of Somers, was born Feb. 24 at North Valley Hospital.

Kalispell Firefighters home from the annual Seattle Stair Climb
Local firefighters from Kalispell and Whitefish are home after competing the the 23rd annual Scott Firefighter Stairclimb to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society on Sunday, March 9, 2014. The event takes place at the Columbia Center, the tallest skyscraper in downtown Seattle. According the official website 1,800 firefighters from around the world came to the event to participate in the 69 flight climb including front row, from left: Joe Hansen, Jake Felts, Kyle Gully, and Sal Baccaro (one of two members from the Whitefish Fire Department), and row two, from left: Soren Koetter, Don Thibert, Ben Graham, and Josiah Mooney. Jon Campbell and Sarah Peterson also competed, but were not able to be present for the photo. The team raised more than $8,000 dollars and came in 11th over all. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Profile: Leslie Yancey
Portrait of Leslie Yancey in her home on Wednesday, March 12, in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Veggie U
Before planting soil tests were done to see what environments helps seeds grow the most. Potting soil was deemed the best as it was compared to field soil, sand and organic compost. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Thursday, March 13
Class A state girls basketball: Kats cruise to semis
GREAT FALLS — That was easy.
Class B boys state basketball: Bigfork blasts Joliet, 66-41
BOZEMAN — For top-ranked and undefeated Bigfork, it’s on to the semifinals.
AA state boys basketball: Fast start pushes Glacier past CMR
BILLINGS — Glacier shot the lights out in the first half and cruised to a 62-47 victory over Great Falls C.M. Russell in the first round of the Class AA state boys basketball tournament on Thursday afternoon.
AA girls state basketball: Wolfpack slips by Bison
BILLINGS — The Glacier girls pulled out their first state basketball tournament victory in school history, locking down Great Falls High in the final two minutes of play to win 47-46 in the first round of Class AA play on Thursday morning.

$196 Deal for $74.99 at Valerie McIntyre Photography!
Daybook
Meeting to discuss uphill skiing policy
The Forest Service will host an informal meeting next week to discuss possible changes to the uphill travel policy at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
McDonald's workers sue over pay
An unintended consequence of attack on clinic
The senseless invasion and destruction at All Families Healthcare, presumably carried out because abortion procedures are performed there, graphically illustrates the more radical side of the anti-abortion campaign.
U.S. spending on pets at all-time high
Senate panel takes up pipeline XL pipeline
Insurance commissioner fines former Blue Cross
Daines' business background is necessity in D.C.
It scares me to think there are some people out there that would rather choose someone who has worked for the big bureaucracy their entire life to serve the people of Montana over an individual with hands-on experience in the business world.
With North Fork bill, Daines provides good leadership
Lasting protection of the North Fork of the Flathead drainage is one step closer to reality thanks to the leadership of Congressman Steve Daines.
Montana primaries include dozens of contested races
U.S. Interior Secretary to visit Montana sites

NYC Explosion
Responders work at the site of a gas leak-triggered explosion in East Harlem on Thursday in New York. Rescuers working amid gusty winds, cold temperatures and billowing smoke pulled additional bodies Thursday from the rubble of two apartment buildings that collapsed Wednesday. (AP Photo)

Death toll in N.Y. gas explosion climbs to 8
Boehner invites pope to address Congress

College honors Garner as top grad
Former Kalispell Police Chief Frank Garner became Flathead Valley Community College’s newest distinguished alumnus Tuesday at the college’s annual Alumni and Ambassadors Spring Luncheon.
Blasdel for Senate District 4 - for life and liberty
Republican competitors in Senate District 4, Tammi Fisher and Mark Blasdel, have major ideological differences.

Defendant pleads not guilty to homicide
A 55-year-old woman has pleaded not guilty to felony deliberate homicide after allegedly shooting and killing her boyfriend in their Hungry Horse home.

South By Southwest Fatal Crash
People are treated after being struck by a vehicle on Red River Street in downtown Austin, Texas, on Wednesday. (AP photo)
Save democracy by saving middle class
Democracy depends on a healthy middle class. History has shown in America, France, England, and other nations that the fruit of inequality is political instability. Thankfully, America has the ability to swell the ranks of our shrinking middle class. We’ve done it before.
Senators reach deal on jobless benefits
High court rules in church dispute
Habitat completes two homes in Columbia Falls
Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley has completed the first two of eight homes in Columbia Falls that are being built in part with a $360,000 federal grant.

Future uncertain for vandalized clinic
‘Everything, everything was destroyed’
Torn up by a devastating vandalism attack, All Families Healthcare in Kalispell will not reopen in the near future while owner Susan Cahill ponders the clinic’s future.
Local teams doing area proud
It’s March Madness on the high school basketball courts — and our local teams are acquitting themselves quite well.
Missing airplane sent satellite signals for hours

Festival goes on after crash kills 2
Maybe prayer and concern ought to stay closer to home
In light of the recent news stories surrounding the break-in and vandalism of All Families Healthcare; the subsequent arrest of Zachary Klundt; and the news story on television where Mr. and Mrs. Klundt and Ms. Trierweiler were mentioned as the organizers of the “peaceful” pray to end abortion protests, I would like to say a few things:
Honor student who sued parents returns home
The case of the duplicate money order
A woman contacted the

Don K
Don Kaldschmidt worked with the Whitefish Architectural Review Committee and Subaru to meet certain design standards both groups required for the new Subaru showroom. March 10, 2014 in Whitefish, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

FVCC Intramural Basketball
Players stretch between games Tuesday night during a Flathead Valley Community College Intramural basketball game at Stillwater Christian School. March 11, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Sabrina Wisher
Sabrina Wisher jokes around with her daughter Mikayla in the office of Wisher Salvage in Kalispell on Thursday afternoon. March 13, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Green Hyundai
Ricky Franks poses outside Green Hyundai in Evergreen on Thursday afternoon.

Sabrina and Mikayla Wisher
Sabrina Wisher with her daughter Mikayla at Wisher Salvage in Kalispell on March 13.

An evening with Dr. Ben Carson
A crowd of 1,300 people filled the Trade Center at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Thursday night to hear Dr. Ben Carson speak at Stillwater Christian School’s annual fundraising event.

Snow
The Flathead County Courthouse is seen through the trees Wednesday afternoon. March 5, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/PCotePhoto.com)

Flathead Lake Scenic
A view of Flathead Lake Thursday morning seen from West Shore State Park. March 13, 2014 in West Shore, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

He-Man Book Club
Flathead High School senior Vladimir Kigilyuk reads with St. Matthew’s first grader Noah Sonju.

Construction continues at the new Flathead Lake Brewing Company in Bigfork.
Eight new 2,325 gallon fermentation tanks are delivered to the new Flathead Lake Brewing Company on Thursday, March 13, in Bigfork. Construction continues and the company is hoping to be open for business in May. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

All Families Healthcare will not reopen in the near future
Not only were photos on the wall vandalized, but offices also were torn apart at the Kalispell clinic.

Susan Cahill: All Families Healthcare will not reopen in the near future
Susan Cahill on Thursday, March 13, in Kalispell.

Wolf Mountain
"Wolf Mountain"

Telluride Mountainfilm Festival comes to Whitefish
Mark Ogle is final Winter Art Maker for season
Apply this spring for summer guitar workshops scholarships
'Werther' is next live opera broadcast

Bye Bye Birdie
Mark Hader, center, plays Conrad Birdie in the musical comedy "Bye, Bye, Birdie" this Friday and Saturday at the Columbia Falls High School Little Theater. The musical, put on by the Columbia Falls High School Drama Club, is a satirical look at singer stardom in 1958. Directed by Matt Ford. Shows start at 7 p.m. each night. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and children under five are free. The show will also have performances March 21, 22 at 7 p.m.

'Bye Bye Birdie' at Columbia Falls High School

Cassie Hashley
Glacier's Cassi Hashley (21) goes up for a shot in the fourth quarter of the Wolfpack's win over Great Falls Thursday in the first round of the Montana Class AA girls state basketball tournament at the Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark in Billings. (AP Photo/Billings Gazette, Casey Page)

All four local basketball teams advance at state
Four games, four wins.

Flathead Business Journal: Ron Terry Construction
A crew from Ron Terry Construction works on a home being build at Log Yard Court in the Mill Creek Subdivision in Bigfork on March 6. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Home and Garden 2014
Wednesday, March 12

Choose from 3 Tanning Packages Starting at $20 from Club Bed!
Class AA State Basketball: Familiar foes for Glacier boys, girls
The Glacier boys and girls both face familiar foes in first-round action at the Class AA state basketball tournament in Billings.
Class A State Girls Basketball: Wildkats turn to shine
The Columbia Falls Wildkats know what’s at stake.
Class B State Boys Basketball: Vikings taking it one game at a time
The Bigfork boys have gone 23-0 this season entering the Class B state basketball tournament in Bozeman this weekend. While the Vikings have met every challenge they’ve faced thus far, including two wins against Class A state champion Columbia Falls, they’re hesitant to be overconfident matching up with a talented field from around the state.

Two from Kalispell seek high court appointment: Judge David Ortley
David Ortley never planned to be a judge.
Lawmakers want flood-prep details
March (fishing) Madness is now in full swing
March fishing in Montana means you need to be ready for anything.

Judge David Ortley

Second suspect in crime spree jailed
The second of two 18-year-old Kalispell men accused in a string of Bigfork burglaries has turned himself in.
Turn election of senators back to states
Mr. Still wrote a very good letter on March 3 about restoring checks and balances to Congress. Repealing the 17th Amendment, would do just that.

Schools study land purchase for new school
Kalispell school officials have selected a 25-acre property at the south end of town along Airport Road as a future site for elementary school construction.

Trucker accused of keeping sex slaves
A Utah truck driver kept sex slaves in his semitrailer for months at a time while he traveled the country, filing down their teeth, forcing them to alter their appearance and beating them until they nearly passed out, authorities said.
GM to offer loaner cars, cash to small-car owners

Gas blast destroys N.Y. buildings, killing three
Local biology students to extract plant DNA
Freshman biology students will lay bare the secrets of Glacier High School’s native plant gardens — down to the DNA.

Skier, 12, wins Junior Nationals
Twelve-year-old Cedar Mattole of Columbia Falls recently took earned honors as Junior 2 National Champion in telemark skiing.

Shane Christensen, 18
Another storm hammers Midwest

Timothy Jay Vafeades, 54
Couple denies letting 2-year-old smoke pot
Man who spent decades on Louisiana death row is freed
Third crash victim dies: Head-on crash occurred near Lolo Feb. 22
Obamacare written on the wind
March 31 is the deadline for individuals to sign up for Obamacare, and those who don’t will be stuck with an IRS penalty.

Amy Eddy
Raising minimum wage won't hurt
The war on wage earners, like any other war, requires propaganda. Example: the Feb. 27 Inter Lake editorial, “Don’t rush to raise minimum wage.” Propaganda works when it doesn’t mention the facts and it is also safe to assume the readers are ignorant of them. The editorial implies that raising the minimum wage will kill jobs. Example: In 1996 the minimum wage was raised. In the following four years more jobs were created than in any other four year period.
Chinese site may show plane debris images
Schools to seek voter OK for technology levy
Voters in Kalispell school districts will be asked to approve a technology tax levy in a May mail-out ballot election.
Paying tribute to the old days of skiing
The Flathead Ski Heritage Center and the Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation are hosting HellRoaring Ski Heritage Days March 22 and 23 at Whitefish Mountain Resort.
Opinion: Clinic owner says attack was a hate crime
No meds at Halfmoon: Recipe for disaster
A man was reported to the
Daybook
Apply for hunt permits by Saturday
Saturday, March 15 is the deadline to apply for Montana’s 2014 deer and elk hunting permits.

Cedar Mattole
Cedar Mattole competes in the junior nationals.

Larry Jensen, 84

Bill Plummer, 82
Bill Plummer, 82, had a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. He passed away March 9, 2014, in the skilled nursing Cottages at the Grandview in Great Falls.

Phyllis L. Joyce Ennis, 97

Wreck at Idaho and Main
Members of the Kalispell Police and Kalispell Fire departments respond to the scene of a wreck with injuries on Wednesday, March 12, at the intersection of Main and Idaho. Seen here Jeremy Grady talks with the driver as Doug Overman, center, and Joe Hansen, right, discuss the accident. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Graduation Matters
Superintendent Denise Juneau speaks at the Graduation Matters Montana announcement at Flathead Valley Community College on Wednesday, March 12, in Kalispell. Thirty-five grants were awarded for a total of $203,000 dollars. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Tribes sue over reservation water rights
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes have filed a lawsuit in federal court that seeks to claim tribal ownership of water and water rights on the Flathead Reservation.
Snowmobiler dies in Cooke City avalanche
COOKE CITY — An 18-year-old Minnesota man has died after he was buried in an avalanche in southwestern
Tuesday, March 11

$35 Deal for $25 at Nine Patch Floral & Gifts!
Nine Patch Floral & Gifts
Daybook
Sheriff inundated with flooding reports
The
Trinity Lutheran School second quarter honor roll
Bail set at $1 million for attempted rape suspect
Caregiver denies stealing $136,000
A Kalispell man has pleaded not guilty to felony theft after allegedly embezzling $136,000 from a man he was taking care of.
Great Falls man reaches plea deal in rapes
Conservancy awards $227,655 in grants
In its first round of grants for 2014, the Glacier National Park Conservancy is awarding $227,655 — up more than $22,000 from 2013.
Local man denies unemployment fraud
A Kalispell man has denied allegations that he collected more than $18,000 in illegal unemployment benefits and federal compensation.
Suspect accused of assaulting officers
A Kalispell man has been convicted of lying in wait behind the Kalispell Police Department before assaulting several police officers.
Kalispell office one of eight in Montana for Sen. Walsh
U.S. Sen. John Walsh, D-Mont., this week announced that his eight regional offices are open to assist all Montanans.

Jon Lee Swinehart Sr., 66
Jon Lee Swinehart Sr., 66, passed away Feb. 14, 2014, at Good Samaritan Hospital in Kearney, Neb., after an extended illness.
Columbia Falls City Court
Cause of Butte house fire under investigation
State, county identify deputy, shooting victim
Bigfork High School Semester 1 honor roll
Missing jet strayed far off course
Cocaine dealer's sentence suspended
A Kalispell cocaine dealer has been given a 10-year suspended sentence after selling the drug at a Bigfork bar.
Walsh selected at least 12 days before announcement
Steadier health-care sign-ups may miss goal
Ravalli County seizes dozens of neglected animals
Haitians sue U.N. over cholera
Alleged assault results in three charges
A Kalispell man is facing a trio of charges after allegedly assaulting his wife and children.
Woman accused of stealing lottery tickets
A Columbia Falls woman has pleaded not guilty to charges in a pair of cases, including one alleging she stole nearly $2,500 in scratch lottery tickets from a Kalispell convenience store.

Water levels drop but flood worries linger
Water levels began to drop on flooded rivers in Montana on Tuesday and authorities scrambled to restore road access for hundreds of people left isolated by high waters.

Peak Sign Solutions, Inc.

Aspen Insurance

Rafting

Entertainment Center
Covington W Door Style - Rustic Alder Wood with a Nutmeg Finish

Office
Covington Door Style - Cherry Wood with a Chestnut Finish

Kitchen

Bathroom
Pendleton RFP Door Style - Rustic Alder Wood with a Coffee Finish

Gary Neal Westphal, 69

Robert Arthur Henry Adams, 83

Flooding
Flooding on Riztman Lane in Village Greens. March 10, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Flooding on Whitefish Stage
Flooding along Whitefish Stage. March 10, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Flooding on Whitefish Stage Road
Rainfall combined with warm weather that melted snow contributed to flooding along Whitefish Stage Road and other areas of the Flathead Valley.

Marilyn Kay Wilson, 75
Marilyn Kay Wilson, 75, of Columbia Falls, “was ushered into the presence of her Lord and Savior” on March 4, 2014, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.
PRCA Ticket Giveaway
Members Access Key
Woman running out of time admits felonies
A Las Vegas woman is facing an eight-year suspended sentence after pleading guilty by way of Alford to a pair of felonies.
Monday, March 10

$50 Deal for $25 at Nelson Technologies and Support!
Nelson Technologies and Support
Candidates step up for county elections
Stoltze project a top budget priority
Legislative elections filings wrap up
Candidate list
Group of Amtrak passengers feared
Gather your stuff for Creston Auction
The 48th Annual Creston Auction and Country Fair and the accompanying auto, marine, RV and equipment sale will be held the weekend of April 5 and 6 in Creston, 12 miles east of Kalispell on Montana 35.

Plans shaping up for West Valley School
CTA Architects and Engineers provided a glimpse of what the new West Valley School will look like after a $6.8 million construction project.
Medical conference looks at bear maulings
ear maulings are the central topics at a national conference for medical professionals and backcountry enthusiasts next month in Kalispell.

West Valley School
A preliminary drawing shows the planned exterior of the new West Valley School buiding. (David Koel graphic/ CTA Architects and Engineers)

Trumpeter Swans
Canada geese and trumpeter swans in a field Monday morning near the intersection of U.S. 2 and Montana 40. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Week in Pictures: March 3-9
Floods wash out roads, leave hundreds isolated
Sunday, March 9

$525 Deal for $30 at Inner Power Training!
Inner Power Training
Pairings set for Class AA, A, B, C state basketball tournaments
Glacier’s boys and girls, Bigfork’s boys and the Columbia Falls girls all have the distinction of playing the first game on Thursday at their respective state basketball tournaments.
Dog licensing program only thing on Kalispell agenda
Man gets three-year suspended sentence for DUI

David Mirisch
David Mirisch, right, works with Salvation Army Maj. Steve Svenson on the upcoming "We Can Swing It" fundraiser in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Chorale director retiring after eight years
Columbia Falls mulls downtown zoning changes

Hollywood veteran directs Salvation Army benefit
Turkey victim of double hit and run
Bigfork suspect denies assault charges
Cats Class A state champs
GREAT FALLS — Fourth-ranked Columbia Falls capped of the 2013-14 boys basketball season Saturday night by downing top-ranked Dillon 56-47 in the Class A state championship game at Four Seasons Arena.
Saturday, March 8
RT America's Liz Wahl resigns live on air
Wildcats win: Columbia Falls new Class A basketball champions
Thanks to Daines for aiding North Fork cause
After four decades of collaborative effort, protection of the watershed of the North Fork of the Flathead River from mineral or energy development is almost a reality.
Gail Huntley Wright, 80
Gail Huntley Wright, in the presence of her loving sons, lost her battle with cancer on March 7, 2014.
Travyn Thornton
Travyn Thornton, son of Eric and Jessica Thornton of Kalispell, was born Jan. 1 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Local students show off their smarts at annual competition
The energy was electric Tuesday at the annual Flathead County Science Fair.
Vote for limits on dark money
Petitions are circulating to put Initiative 168 on the November ballot. This “Sunshine in Political Spending Act” is “to bring integrity back to Montana politics through transparency and accountability of political contributions and expenditures...”
Officer says U.S. general sexually assaulted her
Boys behaving badly in the Flathead
The
Honor the legacy of Kalispell's library tradition
In 1897 local residents organized the Kalispell Public Library, which a few years later was reorganized as the Free Library. Then, in 1900, Kalispell banker J. Harrington Edwards approached New York philanthropist Andrew Carnegie to discuss funding for the construction of a new library building. Carnegie agreed to donate $10,000 for the construction of a library in Kalispell, and in 1904 it opened with much fanfare as residents flocked to the library that boasted a collection of 4,500 volumes.
Mountain lion killed in Helena neighborhood
Rich bullies are using GOP to take over America
Robert Reich, the former U.S. secretary of labor, is professor of public policy at the University of California and author of “Beyond Outrage.” In a recent op-ed in the Chicago Tribune, Reich talks about the bullies who have taken over the Republican Party and where the Tea Party extremists are “getting their dough.”
Bradley Lauria
Bradley Lauria, son of Dalton Lauria and Jacquie Edwards of Columbia Falls, was born Jan. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Obama's greatest hits: Can the country survive any more foreign policy successes?
I suppose we have reached another milestone with this president. I didn’t think he could become more duplicitous and incompetent, but foolish me.
Glacier Park can't stand more visitors
I am writing in response to your recent editorial titled, “Visit Glacier; 2.2 million others did!”
Polson film festival a big hit
Not only does Polson’s Flathead Lake International Cinemafest have an ideal acronym, “FLIC, ” but it’s become an ideal new venue for national and international indie film producers to showcase their talents.
Jace Walton
Jace Walton, son of Jeff Walton and Jennifer Sather of Bigfork, was born Jan. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Tribes need to exercise caution
Now that gill-netting lake trout from Flathead Lake appears imminent — possibly beginning sometime next month — all we can do is strongly urge the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to proceed with wisdom and caution.
Columbia Falls man facing fifth DUI
A Columbia Falls man has pleaded not guilty to his sixth charge and what could be his fifth conviction for drunk driving.

Gary Lee Bocksnick, 71
Gary Lee Bocksnick, 71, passed away March 6, 2014, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center from pulmonary fibrosis.
Isn't Constitution more powerful than Supreme Court?
This is a reply to the letter “Don’t trust Daines” by Larry Norstedt.
Questions about water compact being ignored
Sen. Bruce Tutvedt’s most recent letter to the editor brings nothing new to the table and, as usual, ignores the vast majority of the real questions relevant to the issue of the Salish and Kootenai water compact.
Missoula protects osprey nest from Canada goose
Protest stymied after Venezuelan diplomatic win
Daniel Pickler
Daniel Pickler, son of Matt Pickler and Heather Phillips of Somers, was born Jan. 31 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Rowan Adelaide Berney
Rowan Adelaide Berney, daughter of Rob Berney and Amy Noel of Kalispell, was born Jan. 9 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Golda Marie Mehlin, 93
Golda Marie Mehlin, 93, of Kalispell passed away peacefully at Heritage Place on Thursday, March 6, 2014.
Voters decide government reviews
Flathead County voters will decide during the June 3 primary election whether they want an independent, citizen-led review of their local governments.
Rose Lowry
Rose Lowry, daughter of Norman Lowry and Kayla Thomas of Kalispell, was born Jan. 7 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
'Extremists' need to be reined in
“The legitimate object of government, is to do for a community of people, whatever they need to have done, but cannot do, at all, or cannot do, so well, for themselves — in their separate and individual capacities.”
Montana man pleads guilty in Wash. cold case
Russia reinforces military presence in Crimea

Mom's quest: to quell son's seizures
Medication derived from marijuana not legal in Montana
Kelly Fisk’s desperate search for something — anything — to control her 4-year-old son’s seizures has led her to a medication derived from marijuana.
WikiLeaks' Assange talks NSA, hints at more leaks
Dozens arrested at Mass. 'Blarney Blowout'
College enrollment declines 10 percent
Enrollment at Flathead Valley Community College has dropped 10 percent since spring 2013, according to college records.

Making a mark in coating industry
ARMOR ANODIZING
Sometimes success in business is as simple as anticipating a need and finding a way to give customers what they want.

Missing Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200ER
This photo provided by Laurent Errera taken Dec. 26, 2011, shows the Malaysia Airlines Boeing 777-200ER that disappeared from air traffic control screens Saturday, taking off from Roissy-Charles de Gaulle Airport in France.
Timothy Bear
Timothy Bear, son of Michael and Toni Bear of Fortine, was born Jan. 3 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Daybook

Oil slicks offer sign that Malaysian jet may have crashed

Arena Cross
A rider loses control at the start of a race Saturday night during the second night of Arena Cross at Majestic Valley Arena. March 8, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
William 'Bill' Harold Jaynes, 67
Content and grateful in life and love, William “Bill” Harold Jaynes III, 67, died of a sudden illness on March 1, 2014.

Eugene Lloyd Woody Jr., 82
Eugene Lloyd Woody Jr., 82, passed away after a brief illness on March 1, 2014, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

John 'Jack' Hamilton Greaves, 90
John “Jack” Hamilton Greaves passed away peacefully in Kalispell on Feb. 22, 2014, at the age of 90, with Betty, his wife of almost 70 years, by his side.

Lois Ueland Smith, 80
Lois “was taken to be with her Lord Jesus Christ” on March 3, 2014, while residing in San Diego.

Glacier topples Flathead for trip to Class AA state basketball tournament
The Glacier Wolfpack sealed their trip to the state tournament in Billings, winning their Class AA play-in boys basketball game 64-52 on their homecourt over crosstown rival Flathead on Friday night.

Wolfpack wallops Bravettes; punch ticket to Class AA state girls tournament
The Glacier Wolfpack are headed to the Class AA state tournament in Billings after defeating crosstown rival Flathead 66-38 in a play-in girls basketball game at Glacier High School on Friday night.

McCarvel resigns as head football coach at FHS
Russell McCarvel, who served as the head football coach at Flathead High School for the past seven seasons, has stepped down.
Columbia Falls drops Laurel; advances to Class A state basketball title game
GREAT FALLS — Deadly shooting by Columbia Falls at the free-throw line carried the fourth-ranked Wildcats to a 57-48 semifinal victory over Laurel Friday night at the Class A state boys basketball tournament at Four Seasons Arena.
Friday, March 7

FHS vs GHS Basketball
Glacier girls celebrate their victory over Flathead on Friday night at Glacier High School.

FHS vs GHS boys basketball

FHS vs GHS girls basketball

Play-in Basketball
Glacier junior forward Birelle Bumgarner (31) goes for a loose ball Friday night during the second of half of Glacier's victory over Flathead at Glacier High School. March 7, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

$10 Voucher for $5 from Wrap & Roll Cafe
Wrap and Roll Cafe

$10 Voucher for $5 from Wrap & Roll Cafe (50% off!)
Netting plans still face plenty of opposition
Opposition to gill netting lake trout on Flathead Lake, and any state involvement with netting, continues to take shape.
Princess Ball a big hit with attendance of 1,500
With a crowd of 1,500 people in attendance, Kalispell’s fourth annual Princess Ball filled the Red Lion Hotel ballroom.
Walsh introduces first bill as senator
Sen. John Walsh, D-Mont., introduced his first bill Thursday, to restrict the ability of federal security agencies to secretly collect phone records and other personal data on U.S. citizens.
GOP gathering pushes social issues
Two Montana representatives unhappy with Obama budget
Russia in patriotic fervor over Crimea
Daybook

Flooding problems localized
High water spreads across a farm at 970 Columbia Falls Stage Road.
Local stage a springboard for students
Local stage a springboard for students
From humble beginnings.
People encouraged to consider flood insurance
With heavy snowfall now melting across much of the state, Montana Insurance Commissioner Monica Lindeen encouraged Montanans not to wait to buy flood insurance.
Don't discharge sump pumps into sewer system
The city of Kalispell reminds residents not to discharge ground water from sump pumps into the city’s sanitary sewer system.

Flathead High School honor students visit China
Flathead High School National Honor Society students visited the Beijing National Stadium (known as the Bird’s Nest) during a trip to China in February. Pictured are Moriah Gilpin, Anna Milheim, Eli Cornell, Sam Clarin, Emma Sauve, Emily Dardis, Jacquelyn Merrill, Rayna Darrow, Abbie O’Brien, Hannah Peterson, Sara Jensen and Pascale Yacavone.
Couple accused of letting tot smoke pot
Buried by avalanche, Missoula boy tried to bite his way out
Big boulder crashes near traffic lane
A large boulder “the size of a small vehicle” fell and came to rest straddling the fog line in the northbound lane of U.S. 93 South. A passing volunteer firefighter stopped to direct traffic around the hazard. Fallen rocks also were also reported in the middle of the road 10 miles north of the Lake County line.

Honor students visit China
Flathead High School
Twelve Flathead High School National Honor Society students last month took a journey across the ocean to visit China.
New troopers on duty
A pair of Flathead County residents have been commissioned as state troopers after graduating from the 56th Montana Highway Patrol Advanced Academy last month.
Job gain despite winter blast lifts economic hopes
Regents OK plan for engineering school
Tribes moving ahead on lake-trout suppression
Gill netting projectmight begin in April
The Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes are poised to move forward with a controversial lake trout suppression plan on Flathead Lake, with gill netting tentatively set to begin as early as April.

Crash
Kalispell Fire and Police respond to a vehicle rolled over Friday afternoon. The SUV rolled after being struck by van at the intersection of Center Street and Second Avenue East in Kalispell. March 7, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead Footlball
Flathead High School head football coach Russell McCarvel stands on the sidelines during a Class AA game with Great Falls High at Legends Stadium on Sept. 7, 2012.

Eugene Lloyd Woody Jr., 82

Profile: Tammy Walker
4-H Extension Agent Tammy Walker in her office on Thursday, February 6, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Jane W. Winkley, 77

Hope for Noah
Noah Fisk gets a high five from his preschool teacher Lisa Iddings on Thursday, March 6, at Edgerton School in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Snow Melt Creates Flooding
A property at 970 Columbia Stage Road surrounded by water on Friday, March 7, east of Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Burglary suspect faces four felonies
A Columbia Falls man accused of burglary and massive vandalism at a Kalispell medical clinic and trying to break into a bail bonds business is facing several charges.
Thursday, March 6
State A boys basketball: Columbia Falls drops Havre; Polson loses to Belgrade
GREAT FALLS — Ty Morgan tallied 19 points and pulled down five rebounds for Columbia Falls in a 50-36 first-round victory Thursday afternoon over Havre’s Blue Ponies at the Class A state boys basketball tournament at Four Seasons Arena.

$55 Deal for Full Set Acrylic Nails for $25 at Winx Nail Salon!

Burglary suspect pleads not guilty to seven felonies
A young Kalispell men accused of a string of burglaries in Bigfork has pleaded not guilty to a bevy of charges.
Thanks for balance
There were two letters on the front page of the Feb. 23 Montana Perspectives section. Though very different, they both represent exactly what a newspaper should do, educate the public to a difficult yet important issue.
Daines is outrageous
I am appalled by the new ad out by Daines and his groups trying to use John Walsh’s military record against him.

Russia makes a power play
Crimea votes to join Russia; Obama condemns plan
Long-ago land sale haunts man
An Echo Chalet Drive resident contacted the
Winkley's legacy of generosity
The Flathead Valley once again has lost a treasured philanthropist who gave generously to improve people’s lives not only here but across Western Montana. Jane Winkley died last week at age 77, but her legacy will live on.
Country can't keep electing Democrats
I see that Baucus gave $450,000 to the Democratic Committee, but does anyone remember that it was Max Baucus that helped write Obamacare?

Desmond Mackay, 35

Crimea votes to join Russia; Obama condemns plan
President Barack Obama pauses as he talks about the situation in Ukraine, Thursday, in the briefing room of the White House. The president said a referendum for Ukraine’s Crimea region to separate and become part of Russia would violate international law. (Associated Press)
Baucus attends 'ambassador school'
Former U.S. Sen. Max Baucus soon will be taking up his duties as U.S. ambassador in China, a State Department spokesman said.

John 'Jack' Hamilton Greaves, 90
Election filing deadline coming up Monday
The slate of candidates for Flathead County’s election positions remains slim, with just two business days left to file before Monday’s 5 p.m. deadline.
Can Congress use a litter box?
"Cats at least pee in the litter box.” So said Bill Maher on HBO’s “Real Time With Bill Maher” show on Feb. 10th. This very funny man who cleverly combines wit with political wisdom with selected guests offering differing points of view, was summing up a lively discussion on our totally undependable and thoroughly dysfunctional U.S. Congress.
Daybook
Senate blocks change to military sex assault cases
Another Barbie partnership in peril
Groups say doll is bad model for Girl Scouts
GOP told to stand firm on principles
Conservative political action conference
Concerns about Common Core
I would like to say that I am very well informed about Common Core and the testing to accompany it, but I am NOT. I have only learned about it last summer, but it was mandated by the state in 2010. I do not know enough about it to say whether it is good, bad or in between.
Heroin dealer heads to prison
A Kalispell heroin dealer has been sentenced to 10 years in the Montana State Prison after pleading guilty to a drug distribution charge.

Week in Pictures: February 24 - March 2
Photos by Daily Inter Lake Photo Staff

Week in Pictures: February 17-23
Photos by Daily Inter Lake Photo Staff

Flathead County Science Fair
Nation Park Service ranger Jamie Dawson measures the wingspan of West Valley sixth-grader Emma Paulson Tuesday afternoon during the Flathead County Science Fair in the Expo Building at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.. March 4, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Armor Anodizing
Ed Thielman, manager of the gun barrel processing facility, lowers a rack of barrels into a manganese phosphate bath Tuesday afternoon at Armor Anodizing. March 4, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Snow Removal
City of Kalispell workers clear snow from blocked storm drains Thursday afternoon along 13th Street. March 6, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Mazel 'Mazie' Louise Carpenter, 90

Eleanor Beverly Trost Taylor, 85

Lois Ueland Smith, 80

Dealing with the melting snow
A truck drives through water covering Willow Glen Drive on Thursday morning, March 6, in Kaispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Warm-weather woes: Avalanches and flooding
The Daily Inter Lake

jazz trumpeter
Dominick Farinacci

Jazz trumpeter a rising star in music world

R. Carlos Nakai
R. Carlos Nakai

R. Carlos Nakai is guest artist for tradition-blending Glacier Symphony concert
'Willy Wonka' at Kalispell Middle School
Children's art featured at Hockaday

John Oates
John Oates

More big names in music on board for guitar festival

Man, 67, seriously hurt in hammer assault
Police in Polson are investigating after a 67-year-old man was struck in the head with a hammer, suffering what Police Chief Wade Nash described as life-threatening injuries.
Split tourneys a chance to focus
For Cary Finberg and the Columbia Falls basketball teams, two trips to Great Falls are certainly better than one.
Dancing to the Electric City
Wednesday, March 5

Choose from 3 Tanning Packages Starting at $25 from Club Sun Tanning and Sunless! Choose from:
Daybook
A taxing mess for Lincoln County
Spring road limits could be delayed
Spring load limits for trucks have been set by the Flathead County commissioners and are scheduled to take effect Monday.
Two armed robberies investigated
A pair of armed robberies in the past few days have the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office looking to the public for help.
Price tag set for Kerr Dam
$18.3 million
An arbitration panel has ruled that $18,289,798 is the price tag for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes to acquire Kerr Dam from PPL Montana.
Suspect pleads not guilty to aggravated assault
A Kalispell man accused of fracturing another man’s jaw during a fight has pleaded not guilty to a felony charge of aggravated assault.

North Fork ranger entering final year
North Fork resident Clark Helton was a hunter and a photographer and he loved Glacier National Park. But he wasn’t in love with some of the park’s management decisions — biologists were radio-collaring bears and wolves and even elk and deer — and Clark was no fan of man’s intrusion into the natural world.
Fugitives drove vehicle stolen from Evergreen
Two fugitives from Flathead County captured after a standoff with law enforcement in the Spokane Valley apparently made their escape from the Flathead in a stolen vehicle.
County holds hearing today on new septic rules
A public meeting today will focus on proposed changes to Flathead County’s regulations for septic systems.

'Frozen' golden for Whitefish man
Flathead grad Tappan shares Academy Award
When Whitefish native and Flathead High School graduate Chuck Tappan shared an Academy Award for his work on Disney’s “Frozen,” he wasn’t at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood.
New SAT: Essay portion will become optional
Snow creates flooding woes for ice anglers
Where is global warming when we need it?
Slide risk means trains run empty over pass
High avalanche danger near Marias Pass has prompted Amtrak to bus its Empire Builder passengers between stations in Whitefish and Shelby.

Redwood park closes road to deter wood poachers
Authorities say unemployment and drug addiction have spurred an increase in the destructive practice of cutting off the knobby growths at the base of ancient redwood trees to make decorative pieces like lacey-grained coffee tables and wall clocks.
Columbia Falls man pleads guilty to sex crime
A Columbia Falls man has pleaded guilty to felony sexual abuse of children after taking a photo of a 12-year-old girl as she slept.
Unreal politics!
No response to writer's claim about scientific bullying?
Zinke just doesn't seem to get it
Message sent via dead baby pig
Walsh joins GOP in stopping Obama nominee
Groups allege illegal coordination by Zinke

Redwood poachers
Wildlife biologist Terry Hines stands next to a massive scar on an old-growth redwood tree in the Redwood National and State Parks near Klamath, Calif., where poachers have cut off a burl to sell for decorative wood.

North Fork District Ranger Scott Emmerich
North Fork District Ranger Scott Emmerich is pictured in 2010 at the Polebridge Ranger Station.

Flathead grad Tappan shares Academy Award
Chuck Tappan poses with the Academy Award for best animated feature won by “Frozen” on Sunday night. Tappan is the leader of the Look Department at Disney.

Zachary Klundt

Burglary suspect nabbed
A Columbia Falls man is in jail after allegedly vandalizing All Families Healthcare and attempting to break into another business on Tuesday.

Glacier versus Columbia Falls basketball
Columbia Falls senior Alex Presnell (left) drives past Glacier senior Evan Epperly Thursday night during Glacier's matchup against Columbia Falls at Glacier High school. Jan. 16, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Columbia Falls versus Bigfork basketball
Columbia Falls senior Jared Trinastich (35) pulls up to shoot Thursday night during the Vikings victory over the Wildcats at Bigfork High School Feb. 6, 2014 in Bigfork, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Horses and deer
A horse chases off a whitetail deer that ate its hay Wednesday morning in a field off Conrad Drive. March 5, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

FredsConstruction
Crews work on the new Freds Appliance building Wednesday morning south of Kalispell. March 5, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)
Right now, it's all about ice fishing
Welcome to Howe’s Fishing — both a column title and a question.
Youth, 11, a volunteer whirlwind
Bailey Lake isn’t the typical 11-year-old. When she’s not going to school, dancing with her dance team or managing her own 4-H projects, this young volunteer keeps busy making the world around her a better place.

Gary Jerome Houff, 69

Police halt man carrying bison heart to governor
On the steps of the Montana Capitol on Tuesday, James St. Goddard of the Blackfeet Confederacy speaks out against the hunting of pregnant bison by other tribes.
Flathead, Glacier battle Friday in play-in games
The third set of crosstown basketball games this season will be Friday night at Glacier High School.

Whitefish Wine Club

Whitefish Liquor Store

Wine Selection

Basketball roundup: Bravettes blowout Hellgate
Flathead got out of its scoring slump, scoring 22 points in the first quarter against Missoula Hellgate to vault itself to a 62-43 Western AA conference girls basketball victory on Tuesday.
Tuesday, March 4
Daybook

$400 Deal for ONLY $200 from The Healthy Edge!
Bigfork man gets seven years for sex assault
A Bigfork man has been sentenced to seven years in the Montana State Prison after showing a girl pornographic videos.
House passes North Fork Protection Act
The North Fork Watershed Protection Act, sponsored by U.S. Rep. Steve Daines, R-Mont., passed the House Tuesday evening and Montana’s Democratic senators are urging their colleagues to do the same.
Allegiant adds nonstop flight to Los Angeles
Allegiant is expanding its seasonal, nonstop jet service between Kalispell and Southern California by adding a connection to Los Angeles.
Clear your fire hydrants, fire department says
The Kalispell Fire Department is asking people to help keep their neighborhood fire hydrants clear after many were buried by recent snowfall.
Avalanche, flooding danger looms
The
Council decides road barrier must come down
The Kalispell City Council decided Monday to remove a barrier at the west end of Summit Ridge Drive, providing connectivity to an adjacent neighborhood that was granted final plat approval.

An Evening of Fine Arts IV
The Glacier High School Percussion Ensemble performs a piece called “S.O.S.” by David Barr on Monday at An Evening of Fine Arts IV at Flathead Valley Community College. Ensemble members are Bodie Henderson, Nathan Connell, Colin Cordell and Levi Brown.

Flathead versus Hellgate
Flathead senior Jenessa Heine is fouled as she puts up a shot Tuesday night during Flathead's victory over Hellgate at Flathead High School. March 4, 2014 in Kalispell, Montana. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

'Extensive' damage investigated
Clinic vandalized
The only clinic in Kalispell that offers abortions has been extensively damaged by a break-in and substantial vandalism.

Bonnie Ulrick, 37

Columbia Falls fugitive wounded in shootout
Woman fleeing Flathead shot in Spokane standoff team
A Columbia Falls fugitive was wounded in a shootout near Spokane early Tuesday morning.
Best workplaces get benefits from winning local competition
Winning last year’s Best Places to Work in the Flathead and Glacier Park Region have given the top businesses some extra mileage.

Maxine V. (Flaten) Stordalen LaBere, 95
The last of a generation came to an end on Friday, Feb. 28, 2014, with the death of Maxine V. LaBere, at the age of 95.

John E. Foote, 69

Thomas Edward Abel, 66
Thomas Edward Abel, 66, of Kalispell, died of a heart attack on March 1, 2014, while enjoying family time in the pool at Glacier Wilderness Ranch.

Paul S. Kauffman, 97

Vandalism at All Families Healthcare
Kalispell Police Officer Stan Ottosen, left, talks with Chaplain Drew Buckner at the All Families Healthcare building on Tuesday afternoon in Kalispell. Police are investigating extensive vandalism at the clinic.

All Families Health Care
Damage was extensive inside the All Families Healthcare building on First Avenue East in Kalispell.

College for a Day at FVCC
Mike McGarvey, left, leads a group of STEM students from Columbia Falls, Flathead and Glacier high school tour the Rebecca Chaney Broussard Center for Nursing and Health Science at the College for a Day event at Flathead Valley Community College on Tuesday, March 4. More than 700 high school students from around the area made it out for the event. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

An Evening of Fin Arts IV
Miriam Emerson, center and Debra Franciosi examine the sculptures on display on March 3, at the An Evening of Fin Arts IV event at Flathead Valley Community College. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Time change for Flathead High School's honors ceremony
Flathead High School's Honors and Distinction Ceremony has been rescheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. March 4 in the high school auditorium.
SkyWest plane slides off runway in Missoula
MISSOULA — A SkyWest Airlines airplane headed for Salt Lake City slid off the main runway at Missoula International Airport in Montana on Tuesday morning as freezing rain and icy roads were reported in the area.
President reinforces bully tactics used by warming supporters
I am not surprised Eric Grimsrud chose to ignore the entire point of my previous letter on climate change. My point was that the bully tactics used to silence scientists and professors who do not agree with the global-warming theory are unacceptable.
You can adopt a 'Sochi dog' here in Northwest Montana
I have adopted many “Sochi dogs.” Of course, they were never described that way. But there are hundreds to them around here and thousands in Western Montana. We don’t call them “Sochi dogs” but maybe we should. There were so many homeless and unwanted dogs roaming in Sochi, Russia, that it became a big “image” problem for the Russian Olympics.
Don't blame Obamacare for earlier insurance problem
This is in response to the Julie Miller letter of Feb. 28. I would agree with Ms. Miller that people need to think for themselves and pay less attention to the “obfuscation” put out by the two parties. In reading her letter, however, I noted a bit of just that where she states that “our insurance has doubled twice since 2008.”
Polson boys, Frenchtown girls win Northwestern A challenge games
Polson found its range in the second half, hitting eight 3-pointers and shooting 73 percent from deep to pull away from Whitefish and into the state tournament with a 59-47 victory in the Northwestern A divisional challenge game on Monday night at Glacier High School.
Monday, March 3

$135 Deal for $47 at Valley Chiropractic!
Valley Chiropractic
Whitefish downtown plan up for hearing next week
Nearly two years after it began the process of updating the original 2006 Whitefish Downtown Master Plan, the city of Whitefish still is working toward approval of the revisions and has scheduled a public meeting Wednesday, March 12.
Martin City man accidentally shoots himself
A Martin City man accidentally shot and killed himself Sunday.
Rain the next weather concern
Report details financial impact of Glacier Park
Avalanches hit southern boundary of Glacier

Doris Scott

Doris June (Huston) Scott, 81

Mitchell Stivers Profile
Flathead senior Mitchell Stivers in the wrestling practice room on Monday, March 3. Stivers walked away from his last wrestling match with a win and a severe concussion in early January. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Jim Stanard Profile
Jim Stanard at his home in Kalispell on Monday, March 3. Stanard has decided to step down as director and conductor for the Glacier Chorale. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Snow Removal
Chip Bondurant of the Flathead County Fairgrounds clears snow from the side walk surrounding the fairgrounds on Monday, March 3, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Fettuccine Gamberi
Jumbo tiger shrimp sautéed with garlic, white wine and parsley in our homemade cream sauce. Come join us for dinner!

Gourmet Pizza

Wine

Pollo all' Limone
One of our healthiest dishes: Chicken breast sautéed with garlic, capers and parsley in a white wine lemon sauce. Our portions are big enough to share or take home and enjoy again later.

ScottiBellis Ristorante Italiano

Archery Services

Native Sunglasses

Bear Grylls Gerber Knives

SuperBrella

Coleman Instant Tent

Waders
Avalanche blocks tracks with seven feet of snow
An avalanche shut down train traffic along Glacier National Park’s southern boundary Sunday night.
Whitefish resumes annexation talks
Houston Drive residents voice opposition
The Whitefish City Council on Monday will resume its discussion about annexing dozens of properties surrounding Whitefish Lake, but opposition already is being raised in at least one neighborhood.

Traveling teacher: Seeing the world enriches Columbia Falls educator
Seeing the world enriches C. Falls educator
Alyson Dorr of Columbia Falls has broadened her horizons through travel.
Whitefish considers food vendor permit changes
A proposal to streamline the permitting process for mobile food vendors in Whitefish will be considered during a public hearing at the Whitefish City Council meeting tonight.
C-Falls boys win 6th straight divisional title
Columbia Falls held off a spirited Whitefish team late to win its sixth straight Northwestern A divisional boys basketball tournament, topping the Bulldogs 51-37 Sunday night at Glacier High School to claim a top seed at next weekend’s state tournament in Great Falls.
Wildkats NW A champs
The Columbia Falls girls pulled away from Frenchtown with a strong fourth quarter, winning 53-47 Sunday night at Glacier High School to clinch the Northwestern A divisional basketball championship for the first time since 2011.

Hollander

Hattel-Grilley
It's more than NSA spying on us
What is the difference between the NSA capturing phone numbers and your smartphone tracking you at the mall or grocery store? Not much.
Who needs the Constitution?
Anyone with a high school education should be able to explain what the Constitution of the United States discloses about the separation of powers and how each of the three branches of our government is limited in its authority.
Daybook
Saturday, March 1
Misleading info about Whitefish River motorized use
In some cases, recent newspaper articles have more than suggested that the Fish, Wildlife and Parks Department supports the non-motorized designation proposed by the city of Whitefish. This is misleading if not completely untrue. The FWP has only agreed to allow the process to move forward with a public comment period. FWP told me they continue to believe that a non-motorized designation is unjustified on the basis of resource protection or public safety.
Do not support Zinke or the 'warfare state'
It is no surprise that Ryan Zinke has raised more money than other candidates. Republican candidates for national office who promote relentless wars find financial support. Similarly, Republican warfare state “conservatives” dominate Fox News commentators and are the only “conservative” professors able to get a foothold on college campuses.

Caltabiano-Hunt

Ori-McGrath
Sorry, but Daines is not the problem
I wondered how long it would be before someone started screaming about the lies that the Republicans and specifically Steve Daines are saying about Obamacare (the “Unaffordable Health-care Fiasco”). Didn’t take very long, as Larry Norstedt’s recent letter proves.
Changing alcohol rule crucial to future of Bigfork park
Recent articles in some newspapers have suggested that the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork and other community leaders are requesting the county commissioners to repeal the open container law as it applies to all of Bigfork. I’d like to set the record straight and clarify what we are trying to do and the reasons why.
Columbia Falls High School Semester 1 Honor Roll
Honor Roll Grade 9
Sunday, March 2

$11 Deal for $7.50 at Charlie Wong Saigon Garden!
Charlie Wong Saigon Garden
Kalispell council looks at road access issue
The Kalispell City Council will deal with a public access issue on Summit Ridge Drive tonight before considering final plat approval for the final phase of Northland Subdivision.

Search and Rescue trains with Two Bear Air
Anthony Robinson and Chris Roberts of Flathead County Search and Rescue watch as the Two Bear Air Bell 429 takes off on a training run on Saturday, March 1, at the Kalispell City Airport. Volunteers from Flathead County and North Valley SAR took part in the training. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Mereanus Knabe Petersen, 83
Mereanus Knabe “Pete” Petersen, 83, passed away Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014, at his home on Rogers Lake. He was born July 25, 1930, in Garfield, Utah to Durwood and Mamie (Knabe) Petersen.

Petersen

Profile: Alyson Dorr
Alyson Dorr in her classroom at Columbia Falls High School on Wednesday, February 26. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Train derailment still blocking U.S. 93
A day after a massive train derailment shut down U.S. 93 and rail lines, BNSF was still attempting to clear the way.
Study finds blood lead levels decreasing in Butte
Work to clean up toxic material left over from more than a century of mining operations in the Butte area is succeeding, based on the findings of a health study, federal officials say.
"Blade Runner" trial looms for South Africa
It could all hinge on the toilet door.
Thousands march in pro-invasion rally in Moscow
Thousands marched freely through Moscow on Sunday in support of Russia using military force in neighboring Ukraine, while at an anti-invasion protest nearby dozens were detained.
Ukraine puts military on "high alert"
Warning that it was “on the brink of disaster,” Ukraine put its military on high alert Sunday and appealed for international help to avoid what it feared was the possibility of a wider invasion by Russia.
Bigfork man sentenced for federal firearms crime
A Bigfork man convicted of a federal firearms charge after being caught with several guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition has been sentenced to prison.
Flathead H.S. to honor more than 200 scholars
More than 200 students will be honored Tuesday at Flathead High School’s Honors and Distinction Ceremony
Bigfork girls third at Western B divisional
HAMILTON — In the fourth meeting between the teams this season this season, Bigfork got the best of Plains in the consolation final, beating the Trotters 48-35 to claim third place at the Western B divisional basketball tournament on Saturday.

Wildkats in girls championship game
The Columbia Falls Wildkats showed no signs of a slow start after a first-round bye in the Northwestern A Divisional basketball tournamnet, defeating the Polson Lady Pirates 60-18 in the semifinals on Saturday afternoon at Glacier High School.
Daybook
Sunday, March 2

Local artist's bold, brilliant work receives big recognition
Becoming recognized as one of the top Western artists in the country is no easy feat, Nancy Dunlop Cawdrey can attest.

College speaker wins honors for Carroll
Former Glacier High School debater Ian Hollander is showing promise at the collegiate level.
Saturday, March 1

Cats, Dogs to play for title
The Columbia Falls Wildcats, paced by senior Alex Presnell’s game-high 14 points, defeated Polson 62-48 in the semifinals of the Northwestern A Divisional basketball tournament at Glacier High School on Saturday night.
Emmett Vrooman
Emmett Vrooman, son of Garrison and Christine Vrooman of Dayton, was born Jan. 31 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Kedryn Schmuck
Kedryn Schmuck, daughter of Jerry Schmuck and Kristina Tumlin of Kalispell, was born Jan. 29 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Azen Jaymz Smith
Azen Jaymz Smith, son of Crystal Smith of Kalispell, was born Jan. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
William Adams
William Adams, son of William R. Adams and Martina Arciniega of Kalispell, was born Jan. 27 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Zada Lau
Zada Lau, daughter of Daniel and Joylyn Lau of Kalispell, was born Jan. 26 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Lincoln Konshur
Lincoln Konshur, son of Dave and Lydia Konshur of Kalispell, was born Jan. 24 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Hudson Weisenstein
Hudson Weisenstein, son of Adam and Corrie Weisenstein of Kalispell, was born Jan. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Greta Goudreau
Greta Goudreau, daughter of Jeff and Lindsay Goudreau, was born Jan. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Calvin Roy
Calvin Roy, son of Chris and Amber Roy of Bigfork, was born Jan. 23 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Hotels tell man 'do not disturb'
Neighborhood residents assisted in Montana avalanche rescue
Rescue officials say about 100 neighbors converged to help find three people buried Friday when an avalanche swept down a mountain in a residential area of Missoula in western Montana and crushed a house at the bottom.

Derailed coal cars
Derailed coal cars lie in a jumbled heap alongside the railroad tracks just outside of Olney Saturday afternoon after 45 cars of a train heading east from British Columbia derailed.
Gracie Cheff
Gracie Cheff, daughter of Dalten Cheff and Tori Castonguay of Eureka, was born Jan. 21 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ember Baier
Ember Baier, daughter of Quinn Faydo and Dakota Baier of Kalispell, was born Jan. 19 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Northwestern A Divisional Tournament
Polson senior Andrew Weltz (14) is blocked by Columbia Falls senior Nakia Alexander (24) on Saturday, March 1, at the Northwestern A Divisional Tournament in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Inventor pushes forward with helmet latch
Jim Wegener can hardly move around his house because of the football helmets.
Sauerkraut: 'An ambrosia of mankind'
James Perez sent me an email last week that started like this: “Sauerkraut deserves more attention.”
Telling it like it is: Hunting is not harvesting
Recently, a hunter from Kalispell killed a large bison in the Yellowstone area. A picture of the bison and the hunter was featured in The Daily Inter Lake. “Wow, good!... Great!... Fantastic!” That was my initial reaction. But as I read the article, the hunter felt it necessary to make a half step apology about the accomplishment for public consumption.
West must support Ukraine now
A tense if hopeful peace has settled on Ukraine after pro-Western protesters took to the streets and succeeded in ousting Viktor Yanukovych from the presidential palace.
Salish-Kootenai Water Compact: Make sure it dies!
Recently I learned about a money-making scheme that surely Al Gore and his “global warming” scam would envy. You wouldn’t give con artists from Nigeria your hard-earned savings, so why do you sit idly by while the federal government and their slick team of lawyers attempt to steal valuable natural resources from Montana citizens?
Fine arts to be showcased Monday
A sampling of Kalispell student talent in art, music, theater and speech will be on display Monday at the annual Evening of Fine Arts.
What are we doing when we care more about predators than their victims?
The wheels of justice turn pretty fast UNLESS you’re on death row for a brutal, heinous crime such as the late Dennis McGuire who was exterminated Jan. 16, 2014, some 25 years after his crimes. But, the family got their lawsuit against the state of Ohio and the drug maker filed within eight days of the execution.
Salish-Kootenai Water Compact: Approve it!
The 1979 Montana legislature passed legislation requiring the state to negotiate a quantification of the water rights claimed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes as prescribed in the 1855 Hellgate Treaty.
Trustees hope D.C. trip pays dividends for FVCC
Flathead Valley Community College President Jane Karas and three FVCC trustees recently went to Washington, D.C., for a conference and to visit Montana’s congressional delegation.

Train Derailment
Detail of cars hanging precariously from the railroad bridge that crosses Highway 93 near Olney on Saturday night, March 1. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Empty coal train derails near Olney
45-car derailment leaves U.S. 93 shut down for hours
A massive train derailment left a highway shut down and dozens of cars off the tracks in spectacular fashion Saturday afternoon.
How about 'shared responsibility' for freedom - period!
You have to hand it to Nancy Pelosi: She was dead-on accurate when she claimed Congress had to pass Obamacare before we would find out what was in it.
Joseph 'Joe' Gregor, 95
Joseph “Joe” Gregor, 95, passed away at Brendan House on Feb. 28, 2014.

Lyle Evan Barnes, 87
Lyle Evan Barnes, a giant of a man, “left his lifelong home in Whitefish to a place where the cows always come home when called.” Lyle had lived a brilliant life of 87 years and was surrounded by his four children “when he passed over peacefully to heaven” on Feb. 26, 2014.

Search and Rescue trains with Two Bear Air
Brian Heino, Search and Rescue Coordinator with the Flathead County Sheriff's Office takes volunteers from North Valley and Flathead County SAR on a training run with Two Bear Air on Saturday, March 1, at the Kalispell City Airport. "We are working on familiarizing ourselves with the new helicopters," said Heino. "The goal is to utilize the equipment to help the dedicated volunteers respond even faster." Chief Pilot Jim Bob Pierce can be seen giving the thumbs up to approach the helicopter. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Kalispell man admits burglary
A Kalispell man has pleaded guilty by way of Alford to felony burglary and agreed to pay restitution on two more related charges in exchange for those charges not being filed.
All school districts have board openings
Candidates who want to serve on local school boards have until March 27 to file paperwork for the May 6 election.

'Pack pulls away from Braves
