Ellington

Golf: C-Falls boys win invitational

WEST GLACIER — Gabe Love shot an 80 and was one of five Columbia Falls golfers to post top 10 scores on Monday at the Columbia Falls Invitational at Glacier View Golf Course.

Settlement may allow logging to resume

The state Land Board on Monday approved a proposed lawsuit settlement between Montana and three conservation groups that would protect grizzly bears while still allowing logging in two state forests west of Glacier National Park.

Caller reports possible flower thief

A Kalispell Avenue resident called

Glacier painting donated to Hockaday

The Hockaday Museum of Art has a major new painting in its permanent collection, thanks to a group of benefactors.

New director waited years for lake job to open

While interviewing for his new job as the director of the Flathead Lake Biological Station, freshwater ecologist Jim Elser was asked by one of the staff members why he wanted the job.

Rain gives firefighters a big boost

Substantial rainfall — at least by parched Northwest Montana standards — has dampened area wildfire activity.

Vehicle rolls but injuries are minor

Members of a family suffered only minor injuries Monday when their vehicle was hit from behind by a semi-trailer on U.S. 2 in the Kila area.

Columbia Falls woman celebrates 102nd birthday

What does a person do to celebrate turning 102 years old?

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Bigfork Viking defenders gang tackle Florence's Bridger Dragoo during the third quarter of the Vikings' 18-13 loss to the Falcons in Bigfork on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Bigfork football

In this file photo, Bigfork running back Matthew Farrier breaks free down the sideline for a 36-yard gain during the third quarter of a game against Florence on Monday, Aug. 31, in Bigfork. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Margaret Cripe

Margaret Cripe lives at Hidden Meadow Memory Care in Columbia Falls. On Sunday she celebrated her 102nd birthday. 

William 'Bill' Rentner, 82

William “Bill” Rentner, 82, passed away in Kalispell on Aug. 27, 2015.

Jo Ellen James Lesmeister, 54

Jo Ellen James Lesmeister, 54, lost her battle with multiple sclerosis on Friday, Aug. 28, 2015.

Robert 'Bobby' Clarence Lane, 89

Mary Louise Benbow Paul, 97

Mary Louise Benbow Paul, daughter of Earl William Benbow and Clara Thomsen Benbow, was born Aug. 31, 1917, in Hersman, Illinois. 

'Alpine Reverie'

"Alpine Reverie" by Carole Cooke recently was donated to the Hockaday Museum of Art's permanent collection.

Governor Bullock visits the Marston Fire

Gov. Steve Bullock listens to an update from Shawn Pearson, of the type 1 incident team managing the Northeast Kootenai Complex which includes the Marston, Barnaby, and Sunday fires on Monday, August 31, near Crystal Lake.

Marston Fire

A Chinook helicopter pulls 2,000 gallons of water from Murphy Lake on Monday afternoon, Aug. 31, to pour on the Marston Fire.

Appeals court says Jesus statue can stay on mountain

The Jesus statue on Big Mountain can remain standing on U.S. Forest Service land, a 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals panel ruled today.

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Taste the Flathead

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U.S. 2, Essex area reopen

Traffic resumed Monday morning on U.S. 2 south of Glacier National Park and an evacuation order was lifted for the Essex area.

Mary Tepas to fill spot on Kalispell Public Schools Board of Trustees

Parent and Special Education advocate Mary Tepas has been selected to fill a vacancy on the Kalispell Public Schools Board of Trustees.

Caller concerned about car's whereabouts

A 10th Avenue West woman called the

Local schools gearing up for start of new year

Stillwater Christian

Monday Profile: Heather Davis Schmidt

Heather Davis Schmidt, the new superintendent of the Whitefish School District, in the library of the Whitefish Middle School on Aug. 20.

Whitefish's new superintendent talks strategy

New Whitefish School District Superintendent Heather Davis Schmidt could be described as a collaborative leader.

Kate Bosworth, Michael Polish stop in Kalispell to promote movie

On a nationwide tour to promote their new movie, acting couple Kate Bosworth and Michael Polish stopped Aug. 23 at Norm’s News in Kalispell to discuss the film, the nature of filmmaking and the Dallas Cowboys.

Flathead County OKs $105.2 million budget

The Flathead County commissioners unanimously approved a $105.2 million budget on Wednesday, commending department heads for continued fiscal diligence.

Evacuation orders lifted for Libby

Just a day after evacuating several neighborhoods in the South Libby area, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has rescinded that order, allowing residents to return home despite the growing Goat Rock Complex.

Weather helps firefighters across region

Moisture has been a welcome sight for firefighters in Northwest Montana, even as storms bring risk of higher winds and lightning strikes.

On the set

Director Michael Polish introduces his wife, Kate Bosworth, to her on-screen family during the filming of "90 Minutes in Heaven."

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Parade of Homes

Whitefish running back Chris Park

Whitefish's Chris Park pushes off a Havre defender for a first down during a high school football game Saturday, Aug. 29, 2015, in Havre, Mont. (Roger Miller/Havre Daily News via AP)

Smoke cancels another day of high school sports

Another day of poor air quality from wild fires in Montana and the Pacific Northwest resulted in more cancellations around the state for high school sports on Saturday.

Cats, Dogs lead at NW Volleyball Tourney

The Daily Inter Lake

Boys soccer: Stillwater soccer starts 2-0

BONNERS FERRY, Idaho — Senior BJ Bach scored two goals and assisted on two more as Stillwater Christian School blanked Bonners Ferry 5-0 on Saturday in boys nonconference soccer play.

Whitefish hammers Havre in grid opener

HAVRE — Brian FauntLeRoy scored touchdowns three different ways to lead Whitefish to a commanding 44-12 Class A nonconference football win over Havre Saturday afternoon.

Spreading fires lead to new evacuations

The growing 1,900-acre Klatawa Fire southeast of Libby prompted an evacuation order Saturday.

OPINION: Upturn is a welcome development

Flathead County is currently enjoying a construction boom that may rival or even surpass anything that has gone before.

LETTER: Did Trump forget to seek punishment of employers of illegal immigrants?

I notice the Trumpster ignores what is probably the best way to reduce illegal immigration — punish their employers. I would suggest any employer of 25 or more undocumented immigrants in two fiscal years be prosecuted for running an ongoing criminal enterprise.

Drone companies flourishing in the Flathead

When people spot an unmanned aerial vehicle, more commonly known as a drone, it can be unnerving for some who wonder if they’re under surveillance or what the hovering contraption is doing overhead.

New year opens for local schools

back to school

More Flathead Valley school districts open their doors for another school year this week.  

OPINION: Reconnecting with our strengths; ending our bondage

“If you take away their religion, and break their bonds with their children, you will break the Blackfeet people.” These were the weighty words from a legislator, who is a member of the Blackfeet tribe, as she recounted federal policies enacted generations ago against her people.

Wisconsin Avenue paving planned during September

 Wisconsin Avenue in Whitefish, the main north-south corridor accessing the north side of Whitefish and Whitefish Mountain Resort, will be under repair for much of September.

Treehouse retreat proposed near Whitefish

A plan to build a camp and retreat center near Whitefish featuring high-end rustic treehouses goes before the Flathead County Board of Adjustment on Tuesday.

LETTER: Who can we thank for the fire-altered air and landscape?

As we continue to enjoy our sunsets with the blood-orange sun, the obscure views of the moon, the acrid taste of burnt forest, and the choking haze of smoke filled air, let’s be sure to thank all of those “conservation” groups that have vehemently opposed any and all mechanical reduction of forest fuels.

Bear causes a fright on Forest Ridge

A bear was digging around a garbage can in the garage of a Forest Ridge Road residence. Adding to concern was that the door to the inside of the house couldn’t be locked and the woman making the call to

LETTER: Hot summer leaves animal project in need

This has been a very hot summer. The fires are destroying thousands of acres of forests, and all our farmers are facing a crisis in hay and grain. The suppliers of animal feed are down this year by 60 percent. That is a disaster for the farmers and for such needed shelters as “The All Mosta Ranch” in Marion.

LETTER: Flathead County truck drivers are also good ambassadors

While walking on North Ashley Lake Road recently, I was passed by five Flathead County trucks, four of which were pulling pup trailers. Each driver not only waved but slowed to avoid covering me with dust.

LETTER: Let's not overlook the tremendous benefit of Alpine Theatre Project

Regarding the article (Daily Inter Lake, Aug. 27) on the damage to the Steinway used by Alpine Theatre Project for their production of Chicago, which one could question whether it should have been considered “newsworthy” at all, it was, even on the conservative side, inflammatory.

OPINION: Bureaucrats ought not turn away citizens or equipment ready to help

I have been a resident of Kalispell for 84 years. I have worked in the wood products industries for at least 70 years. I have been a sawyer, a skidder, a millworker and a truck driver. I worked all over Northwest Montana, hauling heavy equipment on countless back roads and job sights. I have harvested thousands of board feet of timber and consider myself a good steward of the lands and our natural resources. As a result of my experience, like many loggers, I have worked on dozens of forest fires falling trees and hauling heavy equipment for decades.

OPINION: Is Canadian logging a threat to pristine drainage?

The North Fork of the Flathead River has long been recognized as an internationally special stream, both in Canada and the United States. As such, the drainage has been managed with unusual care and attention on both sides of the international line.

Solveig Laura Haugland, 48

Forrest George Benz, 86

Forrest George Benz, 86, of Kalispell, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 25, 2015.

Clyde Block, 90

David R. Ottosen, 74

David R. Ottosen, 74, of Thompson Falls, “went home to be with the Lord” on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015 in Plains, after a swift illness with cancer.

Randall 'Randy' Kent Schellinger, 59

“Don’t weep for me; I am free.” Randall “Randy” Kent Schellinger, 59, of Whitefish, “was greeted at the gates of heaven by his mother, sister, son and best friend” on Friday, Aug. 28, 2015, following a courageous battle with Huntington’s disease.

Betty Lou Barlow, 75

Scott L. Anderson, 47

Wilbur 'Bill' O. Dempsey Sr., 82

Family and friends of Wilbur “Bill” O. Dempsey Sr. are deeply saddened by his recent passing.

Jeanette Thew, 78

Michelle Malletta, 47

Marston Fire night

Fires making history

144,000 acres and still growing

With wildfires this summer having covered more than 144,000 acres in Northwest Montana — including more than a dozen separate fires of more than a thousand acres each — top fire officials battling the rapidly growing blazes are unanimously predicting this year will be one for the history books.

COLUMN: Can Europe be saved? And can we?

Karl Marx wrote in 1848 that “A spectre is haunting Europe.”

LETTER: Don't hold Bigfork students back with sub-par high school

I am writing this letter in support of the Bigfork High School bond.

Quadricopter

COLUMN: Chicken at church, 'awesomesauce' new words

The age-old question is: “Why did the chicken cross the road?”

Night view of the Marston Fire

The moon rises with an orange cast over Dickey Lake due to the smoke from the Marston Fire on Friday night, August 28, near Trego. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Glacier's Noah Lindsay is dragged down after hauling in a first-down catch during the first quarter of the Wolfpack's 23-17 season-opening loss to Helena Bengals at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Wolfpack's Caleb Jones drags couple of Bengal defenders with him for a few extra yards during a return in the third quarter. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Glacier 17, Helena 23

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Klatawa Fire

Bengals bust Glacier in opener

With smoke billowing into the Flathead Valley, threatening to delay kickoff, it was instead Glacier’s offense that was missing its timing.

Smoke clears just in time for Glacier football opener

Mother nature must be a football fan.

Pluid, Eureka blow by St. Ignatius, 37-7

EUREKA — Brenton Pluid scored four touchdowns and Eureka blew out St. Ignatius, 37-7 Friday night in nonconference Class B footall action.

AA football: Flathead crushes CMR

GREAT FALLS — Second-year coach Kyle Samson thought before the season that his Flathead Braves might be able to sneak up on some teams.

Volleyball: C-Falls 5-1 at Tip-Off tourney

DILLON — Butte Central posted a perfect mark, going 6-0 Friday during the Northwest vs. Southwest Tip-Off volleyball tournament.

Soccer: Whitefish, Stillwater boys romp in openers

WHITEFISH — Whitefish opened the Class A soccer season Friday afternoon at smoky Smith Fields by splitting with Hamilton.

Woman planning thousands of cookies for firefighters

With multiple wildfires burning across Northwest Montana, hundreds of firefighters have been working overtime at the front lines to get them under control.

Hungry bears create problems across Flathead

As bear activity has increased sharply, state wildlife officials urge people to clean up all bear attractants on their property.

Smoke affects fair turnout

Northwest Montana Fair attendance was down about 2.3 percent this year, due largely to heavy smoke from area wildfires and a wind and rain storm that blew through the Flathead County fairgrounds Aug. 21.

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Lone Pine is barely visible through the smoke as the Glacier Student Section cheers during the second quarter at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Glacier's Noah Lindsay is dragged down after hauling in a first-down catch during the first quarter of the Wolfpack's 23-17 season-opening loss to Helena Bengals at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Wolfpack's Caleb Jones drags couple of Bengal defenders with him for a few extra yards during a return in the third quarter. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Zinke calls for timber work

The day after a fast-growing fire forced the evacuation of Essex residents from their homes, Montana’s lone congressman on Friday visited the fire team’s camp at the West Glacier koa.

Marston Fire heads toward North Fork

The Marston Fire burning north of Dickey Lake near Fortine gained an estimated 800 acres Friday, pushing northeast toward Whale and Trail Creeks in the North Fork of the Flathead River.

Grass fire prompts big response

Firefighters from five agencies scrambled Friday afternoon after a grass fire broke out in Evergreen.

Muffin thugs keep getting younger

A Treeline Road resident called the

Donna L. Harding, 74

Donna L. Harding, 74, of Kalispell, passed away Aug. 25, 2015, at her home in Kalispell.

Charles W. 'Wes' Hansberry, 83

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The Buffalo Wild Wing booths are numbered like stadium sections as part of the overall design. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A Brock Osweiler jersey is part of the memorabilia hanging on the walls at the Buffalo Wild Wings. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Buffalo Wild Wings in scheduled to open on Sept. 9. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Smoke alters prep football schedules on opening weekend

Poor air quality throughout the Flathead Valley wreaked havoc on the prep football schedule Friday night.

Remainder of Great Bear Wilderness closed

Due to increased fire activity in the Great Bear Wilderness area —  including the Sheep and Granite fires — the Flathead National Forest has increased areas closed to the public.

Smoke alters local prep football schedule

Poor air quality throughout the Flathead Valley wreaked havoc on the prep football schedule Friday night.

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Firefighters perform mop-up duties on the perimeter of the grassfire in Evergreen on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Zinke at Incident Command

Sheep Fire progression Aug. 27

This map released Friday, Aug. 27, shows the progression of the Sheep Fire near Essex. The fire now has covered 1,595 acres.

Sheep Fire set up for big gains

The Sheep Fire at the southern edge of Glacier National Park has roughly tripled its size in three days, and following the evacuation of Essex Thursday, officials with the fire team say today will be a critical test for firefighting efforts as powerful winds are forecast to sweep through the region.

Fire Map

Apartments evacuated during fire

Firefighters were called out Friday morning to an apartment building fire at 1305 Fifth Ave. E. in Kalispell.

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McCracken

Flathead running back Josh McCracken speeds down the sideline during the Braves' 13-12 victory over the Great Falls Bison at Legends Stadium on Friday, Aug. 29, 2014. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Trefney

Glacier's Thomas Trefney attempts to shed a tackle during the second quarter against the CMR Rustlers at Legends Stadium last year. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Football Preview: Glacier looks to add on

It would be impossible to replicate the type of success Glacier had last football season.

Football Preview: Braves' seniors buying in

Josh McCracken and Payton Boyce know they are running out of time.

Football Preview: Plenty of contenders in Northwestern A

Often maligned the last few years, Northwestern A football may be the toughest division in the state in 2015.

Football Preview: Bigfork still team to beat in 7B

There was much consternation in Libby over the school board’s decision to drop the Loggers from Class A to Class B for the 2015-16 academic year, but as the season gets underway it does mean a pair of Lincoln County rivalries will be reignited.

Law roundup: Next time call the fashion police

A father on Eighth Avenue West perhaps should have called the fashion police rather than the

LETTER: Thanks for another fun-filled summer

Once again, we have organized a fun-filled summer in the Flathead.

LETTER: Is it time to fly Old Glory upside down?

Our grand ole flag has traveled the world’s battlefields and disaster areas since before 1776, just after Betsy Ross sewed the first.

LETTER: Do better to protect piano in future

I am astounded and dismayed to hear that dancers of the Alpine Theater Project danced atop the Steinway concert grand piano at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center during their recent performances in the musical “Chicago.” The piano’s top was damaged, and the structure of its case could have been weakened by the weight and motion of the dancers.

LETTER: Shocked by abuse of the Steinway

We moved here not long ago and have enjoyed and are amazed by the excellent quality of the performing arts here in Whitefish. The theater and music presented at The O’Shaughnnessy Center, the Whitefish Performing Arts Center and other venues in the valley is truly outstanding.  

EDITORIAL: Plum Creek offer benefits us all

Plum Creek Timber Co. once again proved it is a good neighbor this week when it announced that 15,000 of its acres northwest of Whitefish are being conserved in a deal with the Trust for Public Land.

Rapist sentenced to 40 years in prison

A Whitefish man has been sentenced to 40 years in prison for molesting young girls.

Glacier Conservancy event raises $275,000 brings in big bucks

The Glacier National Park Conservancy raised more than $275,000 at its annual Backpacker’s Ball on Aug. 1, an increase of more than $100,000 over last year.

Flathead High students to build new house

Flathead High School students will raise the roof in new construction classes this school year.

New recycling site opens in Kalispell

A new recycling drop-off site opened this week at Kalispell Medical Equipment in Kalispell.

STATE vs. Bruce Allen Frey

House

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Jared Warden brings a load of gear to a car as he prepares to leave Essex on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Judith A. Bronson, 74

Judith A. Bronson, 74, passed away at her residence at Buffalo Hill Terrace on Aug. 25, 2015, after battling brain cancer.

Wilderness access sharply reduced by fires

As fires bloom, the options to recreate in the Bob Marshall Wilderness are rapidly diminishing.

U.S. 2 closed due to fire activity

A stretch of U.S. 2 along the southern boundary of Glacier National Park was closed just before 5 p.m. Thursday due to a nearby wildfire.

Flathead Business Journal: Montana Shirt Company

Detail of paints used in screen printing at the Montana Shirt Company on Thursday, August 27, in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana Life: Steampunk Life

Shane Curtiss, in his Captain Barnaby attire takes his seat at Huhot on July 27, in Kalispell. The family does not dress up for every outing, but when they do, they get noticed. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Part of U.S. 2 closed as fire reaches ridge

Essex evacuated

In the face of the growing Sheep Fire, evacuation orders went out Thursday afternoon for the Essex area on the southern edge of Glacier National Park.

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Flathead Business Journal: Focus Group

Jessica Parker, the founder and director of Hero of the House, welcomes participants to a focus group on Friday, August 21, in Kalispell. At right is Lara Russell of Montana West Economic Development. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Crown of the Continent Guitar Workshop and Festival kicks into high gear

Guitar grandeur

This Week in the Flathead | Aug. 27 - Sept. 2

TERRY COLUMN: Smoking out practice time proves tough

The Glacier boys soccer team held an outdoor practice session just once this week.

Bigfork stormwater district fees finalized

The Flathead County commissioners moved forward Wednesday with the final phase of the Bigfork stormwater system, unanimously approving the annual assessments for a newly created Rural Special Improvement District.

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Bypass connection at hand

Bids will be opened today for the final phase of the U.S. 93 Bypass project.

Fire crews take the train

With thick smoke impeding visibility and foiling aircraft operations over the past couple of days, BNSF Railway trains have been shuttling fire crews and heavy equipment into the Sheep Fire at the southern edge of Glacier National Park.

Choking smoke might clear out on Saturday

Choking smoke in Western Montana valleys is poised to stay until this weekend, meteorologists say, until a new weather front can move in and mix things up.

Hit-and-run crash last month still unsolved

A brush with death on U.S. 93 south of Kalispell last month remains unsolved, and the Montana Highway Patrol would like to hear from any witnesses who can help identify the pickup that crashed into a motorcycle on the night of Thursday, July 30.

COLUMN: Fire situation might affect fall hunting

Normally at this time of the year, many of us will start storing our fishing gear and boats and dust off our hunting equipment.

Driver, 85, killed in accident

The name of a woman involved in a fatal car accident Tuesday morning in Somers has been released by the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Zoning transition continues in Whitefish 'doughnut'

Flathead County continues its takeover of planning oversight in the Whitefish “doughnut” area with two public hearings at the county Planning Board meeting on Sept. 9.

Youths pull together for corps work

Eight weeks of fixing trails, pulling weeds, planting trees and learning other natural resource management skills isn’t how every high schooler spends his or her summer

Glacier reopens Apgar Lookout Trail

The Apgar Lookout Trail on the west side of Glacier National Park is now open although the lookout remains closed.

Truck delivers mulch ahead of schedule

A motorist called the

Digital marketing seminar will be next week in Kalispell

A digital marketing seminar, Getting Results Online, is coming to Kalispell next week.

Monday's the big day for many local schools

In addition to classes starting, most school districts that begin Monday also will serve hot lunch on opening day.

Many schools around the Flathead Valley launch a new school year on Monday:

Kalispell schools ready to roll

 School is back in session next week for roughly 6,108 students in the Flathead Valley who will be attending Kalispell Public Schools.

Classic piano to be repaired after theater damage

Alpine Theatre Project is paying for thousands of dollars in repairs to a concert-caliber grand piano after it was apparently damaged during a recent production at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Crown of the Continent Guitar Workshop and Festival

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A helicopter fills up a bucket with water as the plume from the Marston Fire starts to kick up on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A helicopter fills a bucket full of water from the private Lake Olga while fighting the Marston Fire on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Garden Therapy

Judy Cox tends to her garden on Wednesday afternoon, August 26, in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Wreck in Evergreen

Jack Knuffke, center, and Cole William, background, work the scene of a two vehicle accident on U.S. 2 on Wednesday, August 26, in Evergreen. Traffic was reduced to one lane in both directions on account of the wreck. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Back to School for Kalispell

Jessie DeBlauw, a para educator at Hedges organizes supplies in the special education kindergarden through second grade Life Skills room on Wednesday, August 26.  (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Bear Creek Fire Map Aug. 26

This map shows the areas covered by the Bear Creek and Trail Creek fires as of Wednesday, Aug. 26.

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Specialized Response Solutions Team Leader Kent Farquhar and firefighter Michael Rudolph watch an Amtrak train pass while the firefighters ride a BNSF train riding to the Sheep Fire burnin south of Essex on Tuesday, Aug. 25. (Jonathan Moor photo)

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Wildland firefighters Michael Rudolph and Anthony Lee walk past hoses laid on the BNSF Railway trestle near the Sheep Fire burning about 1 mile south of Essex, MT, Aug. 25, 2015. (Jonathan Moor photo)

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BNSF Brakeman Nick Misecko waits while wildland firefighter Matt Lamb hands a pump to Michael Rudolph as they offload a BNSF caboose on the railroad trestle south of Essex on Tuesday, Aug. 25. (Jonathan Moor photo)

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Wildland firefighters Anthony Lee and Michael Rudolph inspect sprinklers set up to protect the BNSF Railway trestle near Essex on Tuesday, Aug. 25. (Jonathan Moor photo)

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Benchmark fire forces cabin evacuations

HELENA — A wildfire in the Benchmark area at the eastern edge of the Bob Marshall Wilderness led to the evacuation of recreational cabins in the Lewis and Clark National Forest.

Mann, Schulz win smoke-shortened Missoula Invitational

MISSOULA — Not long after players fanned out across Larchmont Golf Course, teed up their first ball of the day and sent it toward the fairway, word was starting to spread around the course.

Whitefish moving out of City Hall

 Today is the last day the city of Whitefish will occupy the City Hall building.

Nonchalant stabbing attempt foiled in Kalispell

A man called the

Daybook

Chase Robert Baldwin, 19

Patricia Lea (Fuller) Root Campbell, 68

VIRGIL BENCH

FIRES AT A GLANCE

Major fires burning across Northwest Montana:

Bear Creek Fire gains 8,000 acres

The Bear Creek Fire added over 8,000 acres over the past couple days as smoke-filled skies and temperature inversions allowed it to grow steadily under the radar, to an estimated 28,700 acres in the Flathead National Forest.

Builders rally to help one of their own

Benefit effort to construct home for ailing Virgil Bench

Local builders are joining forces to construct a home for Whitefish Chief Building Official Virgil Bench while he undergoes treatment for small-cell lung cancer.

Fires cover 70,000 acres

So far this summer, fires across Northwest Montana have burned more than 70,000 acres, with suppression costs totaling over $21 million.

Fairview man charged in death of missing Kalispell woman

East-side Sun Road access extended through Oct. 4

East-side access to Logan Pass in Glacier National Park has been extended to Oct. 4.

Kalispell fire

Fire halted in basement of home

Thanks to the quick reaction of a neighbor and swift response from stretched-thin fire departments, a fire in a house on Garland Street in Kalispell was knocked down before it engulfed the entire home.

Border Patrol Explorer Academy

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A Flathead Hotshot firefighter patrols the fireline on the Marston Fire.

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Departing director reflects on a life studying Flathead Lake

Reflecting on a 35-year career at the Flathead Lake Biological Station, Director Jack Stanford gave his last annual State of the Lake address to the Flathead Lakers last week.

Golf: Mann, Schulz, Fyall lead way at Missoula Invitational

MISSOULA — Glacier and Whitefish have the individual leaders after first-day action at the Missoula Invitational golf tournament on Monday.

Bigfork tax district assessments finalized

A public hearing will be Wednesday to set the assessments for the recently created Rural Special Improvement District that will help fund the final round of Bigfork stormwater system improvements.

Like a boat out of water?

A Voyager Drive resident called the

Flathead County poised to raise property taxes

Flathead County residents can expect a 1.8 percent increase in property taxes for the coming fiscal year.

Kalispell school budget pegged at $69 million

Kalispell Public Schools will operate on a $69 million budget for the 2015-16 school year.

Catherine Frances Petersen, 64

Catherine Frances Petersen, born Jan. 27, 1951, to Henry and Cecelia Heil in San Diego, died from complications of diabetes in her Kalispell home Aug. 19, 2015. 

Smoke grounds fire helicopters

Thick smoke in Northwest Montana helped dampen fire growth on what had been predicted as a critical fire day.

Timber firms shut down the woods

Plum Creek on Monday restricted public access and land-use activities on all of its lands in Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Missoula, Sanders and Ravalli counties.

Analyst offers grim fire forecast

With two U.S. senators sitting in the front row and a host of fires burning in the nearby forests, all ears Sunday evening at the Thompson Fire Complex camp in West Glacier were on David Greathouse.

Smoke causing health problems

It’s smoky.

Conservation deal preserves Plum Creek land

More than 15,000 acres of Plum Creek Timber Co. land northwest of Whitefish will be conserved through an agreement announced Monday by the company and The Trust for Public Land.

Thompson-Divide Complex closures

This map shows areas closed by the Thompson-Divide Complex of fires in Glacier National Park and Flathead National Forest. A firefighting force of 265 people, including three helicopters and 15 engines, is working on the fires, with the Sheep Fire the top priority since it is closest to U.S. 2 and the community of Essex. Vehicle traffic is being guided by pilot cars along U.S. 2 between mile markers 178 and 185. One of two BNSF Railway lines is open to train traffic; the other line is dedicated to firefighting efforts. Firefighting crews have been carried in on a work train to create gaps in the vegetation from the tracks toward the fire through steep, dense terrain.

Spotted Bear fires Aug. 24

This map shows fire starts across the Spotted Bear Ranger District of Flathead National Forest.

Smoky Skies

Canadian tourist Marcus Friess tees off at the Buffalo Hill Golf Club in Kalispell on Monday afternoon. Trees in the distance are obscured by smoke-filled skies. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Jeff Arcel

Local musician and artist Jeff Arcel plays a tune in downtown Whitefish on Aug. 24.

Air Quality in the Flathead Valley

From left, Wendy Chang, 21, and Cindy Lin, 21, both of Tainan, a city in the south of Taiwan, make their way to the bus stop on Baker Avenue in Whitefish on Monday morning, August 24. The two are in the area working and traveling and wearing breathing masks because of the low air quality and because of the cold in the early hours of the morning. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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At Home Flathead August cover

Organizer calls cops over missing signs

Columbia Falls eyed for hotel

An inquiry about building a 50-room hotel in Columbia Falls recently came through Columbia Falls City Hall, according to City Manager Susan Nicosia.

County emergency planner 'wants to help people'

Sitting on a shelf in a county building in north Kalispell, there’s a four-inch-thick binder full of nightmare scenarios for Flathead County.

Fires across state continue to gain strength

Fires straddling the border to the north and south of Heron, along with others burning near roads and trailheads to the east and west of Noxon, lead fire information officer John Head to a simple conclusion.

Whitefish set to auction unusual items from City Hall

Are you in the market for a century-old steel jail cell?

DeSoto has long Kalispell history

Leonard Anderson of Evergreen hadn’t been inside Boyd’s Blacksmith Shop — now the newly opened DeSoto Grill — since he brought his neighbor’s horse to the shop for new horseshoes in the 1930s.

Old blacksmith shop is eatery once again

Pans of freshly baked cornbread cool on a kitchen counter. The smell of smoked beef brisket wafts through the air.

Crown of the Continent

At Home Flathead August

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Trail Fire map Aug. 22

Bear Creek Fire map Aug. 22

Hobbled Beau Hill bucked on last day at rodeo

West Glacier’s Beau Hill enjoys a lot about coming home.

Benefactor rescues boy's fair week after paperwork miscue

Fair time is the culmination of months of hard work for young exhibitors, sometimes leading to an emotional roller coaster just as dramatic as any ride at the carnival.

Livestock sale shows off community character

Saturday’s Livestock Sale at the Northwest Montana Fair showed off well-bred steers; fat, healthy hogs; and a generous sense of community spirit.

U.S. 2 reopens, but fires still a threat

U.S. 2 along the southern edge of Glacier National Park reopened to traffic Saturday morning as did the BNSF Railway line through the Middle Fork Corridor.

Summer project: setting the stage

100-fold studio

This summer, 12 architecture students who came from as far away as Alabama and England set the stage for the Lakeside community to gather.

New vaccine rules in effect

There are a few changes this year in vaccination requirements for children to attend school.

It's back-to-school time once again

Two districts begin classes in next week

 It’s time again to gather supplies and pack backpacks because another school year is here, starting this week for some schools.

Hotel opens in former assisted-living center

Greenwood Village Inn and Suites, a Western-themed hotel highlighted with log pillars, elk antlers and bison-leather chairs, opened earlier this month in the former Greenwood Village Assisted Living center in Kalispell.

Greenwood Village Inn and Suites

Whitefish Shopko Hometown to open next month

Shopko Hometown is about a month away from opening in Whitefish’s Mountain Mall.

Daybook

Health facility finds mystery container

A manager from a Hospital Way facility called the

Jean E. (Rendahl) Driscoll, 81

Jean E. (Rendahl) Driscoll, 81, passed away peacefully at home on Aug. 16, 2015.

Lorence Richard 'Dick' Flynn, 74

With loved ones by his side, Dr. Lorence Richard “Dick” Flynn passed peacefully at home on Aug. 15, 2015. He maintained his ever-optimistic outlook on his ability to recover from his ailments until the final moments of his life.

Starling Lee Lindsey, 82

S. “Lee” Lindsey was born Feb. 29, 1932, and raised in Somers.

Katherine Gregory Averill, 63, recent

Katherine Gregory Averill, 63

Calvin Henry Gamma, 88

OPINION: Why Northwest Drywall doesn't want to move

We take issue with several statements made in response to our withdrawal of support for the Kalispell TIGER grant, specifically these:

OPINION: Will America stand idly by as ISIS conducts reign of terror?

Those on the front lines report, “ISIS is brutal beyond words. It is beheading, raping, and selling Christians. Recently a Christian priest was kidnapped, held for ransom, and then chopped into pieces and mailed to his devastated family. American citizens are tortured and illegally imprisoned for their Christian faith.”

OPINION: Fighting Iran deal is bipartisan goal

If Iran’s ultimate goal is to obtain a nuclear weapon, the deal reached by the Obama administration sets Iran on a course to do so.

OPINION: Rethinking rail park may be good idea

I have watched with interest the development of the “rail park” project and with some degree of skepticism.

EDITORIAL: Canadians play key role in economy

A recent story in the Inter Lake highlighted the impact of Canadian spending on our local economy — and how precarious that impact can be, thanks to the exchange rate.

LETTER: Thank goodness for East Coast lawyers to help us rubes

So, it comes to this. Opponents of the CSKT water compact have hired a phalanx of Ivy League lawyers from New York City to explain to the naive electorate of the Treasure State how we have been duped by an international conspiracy orchestrated by the U.N. with the sole purpose of stealing the waters of the Jocko River for some, as yet unrevealed, but surely evil, socialistic purpose.

LETTER: Driver shares thoughts about 'sharing the road'

On Wednesday, Aug. 19, I was driving south on U.S. 93 to the Toyota dealership. Road conditions were dry and visibility only slightly impaired by smoke. There was only light traffic and I was not distracted in any way.

LETTER: GOP front-runner straight out of 'Cannery Row'?

In the book “Cannery Row” John Steinbeck wrote: “It has always seemed strange to me, the things we admire in men, kindness and generosity, openness, honesty, understanding and feeling are the concomitants of failure in our system. And those traits we detest, sharpness, greed, acquisitiveness, meanness, egotism and self-interest are the traits of success. And while men admire the quality of the first they love the produce of the second.”

LETTER: Fundamental issues confronting nation

Two major issues prominent in the valley today are right out of the book of Romans. The worship of the creature more than the Creator (Romans 1:22-25) and the LGBT issue (Romans 1:24, 26-32), which began in 1992 when they came “out of the closet.” The end result of both of these is spiritual death of the individual and this nation (Leviticus 18:21-25).

LETTER: Trump 'gets it' on immigration

Following the main debate of 10 Republican hopefuls, Donald Trump was the recipient of negative remarks concerning his stand on Mexican immigration. One would assume that his ratings would take a nose dive, but that didn’t happen. According to the last poll I saw, he is still ahead with double figures.

LETTER: 'Modest' border proposal fits Trump image

Dear Mr. Trump: Fencing the Mexican/U.S. border does not fit the Trump image. I visualize you proposing a super highway running from Brownsville, Texas, to the Pacific Ocean.

LETTER: Don't trust Iran on nuclear deal

I believe that Congress should not approve the current deal with Iran. The ayatollah has never kept his word on anything. The current deal lifts all sanctions and grants Iran $150 billion without Iran even slowing down its nuclear proliferation.

OPINION: Iran nuclear deal is test case: Party or country?

Our Founding Fathers including George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were very cognizant of the dangers of political party allegiance. Over the last six years their fears have been proven valid. Under President Obama the nation has suffered from increased divisions and partisan heel digging. His policies have divided the United States on racial, political and economic lines like never before.

COLUMN: Heroes 'for a time such as this...'

What do Mike Huckabee, Ben Carson and Zell Miller all have in common?

Cowboys rule the night at PRCA rodeo

The cowboys got off to a strong start and ended with a bang on a cold and rainy night at the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo on Friday at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Kalispell, Kesler stock draw rave reviews from riders

By Andy Viano

Sedated man drives himself home after surgery

Law enforcement roundup

 Someone called to report a patient from a Commons Way medical facility had just driven away while he was heavily sedated, despite a planned ride that was en route to pick him up.

Whitefish toughens fire restrictions

The city of Whitefish imposed Stage 2 fire restrictions Friday afternoon as extreme fire danger continues in the area.

Fire advance limited despite changing winds

Despite a cold front pushing strong winds over the Sheep Fire burning about two miles south of Essex, the flame front had not advanced significantly since it forced the closure of U.S. 2 on Thursday at the southern edge of Glacier National Park.

Bear Creek Fire

Fire near Spotted Bear roars from 465 to 17,755 acres

The Bear Creek Fire near Spotted Bear swept through about eight miles of forest, jumped the South Fork River and grew from 465 to 17,755 acres in just a few hours Thursday afternoon.

Sheep Fire

Smoky skies obscure the view of the mountains on Friday afternoon, August 21, east of Essex. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Fires continue to foul Flathead air

Smoke continued to pour into the Flathead Valley on Friday, prompting a continuation of an air-quality alert from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality.

Smoky view from space

Tnompson-Divide Complex map Aug. 20

This map shows the Thompson and related fires in the Thompson-Divide Complex.

Spotted Bear Fires Aug. 20

This map shows the distribution of fires across the Spotted Bear Ranger District of the Flathead National Forest.

Bear Creek Fires Map Aug. 20

This map shows the perimeters and locations of the Bear Creek Fires on the Spotted Bear Ranger District.

Conference focuses on federal Indian policy

This weekend, the Citizens Equal Rights Foundation will host a conference in Kalispell billed as an “instant training center” for citizens and public officials to learn about federal Indian policy.

Up and down day at rodeo

By DAVID LESNICK

Smoke hinders local practices

Flathead football coach Kyle Samson gave his team a break from the rigor of two-a-day practices Thursday but it was not a move made by design.

LETTER: Trump is threat to establishment

What irritates the establishment about Donald Trump is that he can’t be controlled. There are no handles, and there is no amount of money to persuade. The full weight of the American economy, should it fall into his hand, as president terrifies the unseen Machine... and it should.

LETTER: Sen. Tester, just who did you talk to in Montana about the Iran deal?

Open comment to Jon Tester, Democratic senator from Montana:

EDITORIAL: Take break from fires at the fair

Wildfires burning in every direction have consumed our attention this week, grabbing headlines as conditions worsen in some places.

LETTER: The unintended consequences of new LBGT policy

To all of those who chose to support and pass the change to the Kalispell Public Schools’ “Equal Education, Nondiscrimination and Sex Equity” policy, I invite you to take a step back and try to look at the situation without a predetermined conclusion.

Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo

Tyler Nelson of Victor, Idaho dismounts Blue Wings after a successful ride on Thursday, August 20, at the Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo. Nelson scored 77 on his ride. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Daybook

Albert William Dufresne, 91

Albert William Dufresne, 91, of Rollins, passed away in Kalispell on Aug. 15, 2015.

Golfer gets lesson in game's heartbreak

A golf instructor called the

Jess C. Wrightson, 57

Taylor Shae Davis, 18

On Aug. 17, 2015, Taylor Shae Davis, 18, of Polson, passed away. Her beautiful blue eyes and infectious smile will forever be held in our hearts.

City funds two new Kalispell officers

The 2016 budget for the city of Kalispell included room for two new police officers.

Evacuation zone expanded in Noxon area

The Napoleon Fire on Thursday forced additional evacuations near the community of Noxon in the Kootenai National Forest, while pre-evacuation orders were given along a stretch of Montana 200 near the Idaho border.

Sheep Fire

Sheep Fire roadblock

Weather Friday critical to fire situation

Traffic being stopped at West Glacier Road, rail line closed

U.S. 2 along the southern boundary of Glacier National Park was closed at 3 p.m. Thursday as the Sheep Fire continued to push northeast from Flathead National Forest, south of Essex.

Spike strips stop long highway chase

A high-speed chase that began in the east side of the Flathead Valley ended on U.S. 2 near Nyack when the driver careened into the woods.

End of the chase

Fire hits Plum Creek fiberboard plant

A fire early Thursday morning at Plum Creek Timber Co.’s medium-density fiberboard plant in Columbia Falls shut down a production line, but a second line was up and running by midafternoon.

County OKs exemptions to fire restrictions

The Flathead County commissioners on Thursday unanimously adopted Stage 2 fire restrictions on private lands in the county, but also approved exemptions that will allow farming, construction work and activities such as lawn mowing.

Sheep Fire map Aug. 20

Flathead Valley air 'very unhealthy'

Thursday was the Flathead Valley’s smokiest day in years, with school sports practices impacted, the mountains all but invisible and the sun bathing the region in an eerie light as it struggled to break through the haze.

Sheriff says fire may reach U.S. 2 near Essex

There is a good possibility the Sheep Fire burning 2 miles south of Essex will reach U.S. 2 late Thursday if the forecast for gusty winds holds true, Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry advised the county commissioners Thursday morning.

Marston fire map Aug. 20

This map shows the perimeter of the 3,000-acre Marston Fire on Aug. 20.

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Whitefish hosts jazz camp for local students

Finding freedom in jazz

Many students around the Flathead Valley are focused on squeezing as much rest and relaxation as possible into the few remaining days of summer vacation. But in Whitefish, nearly 40 students have chosen to spend one of their final summer weeks at the Whitefish Jazz Camp from Aug. 17-21.

TERRY COLUMN: Beau's last go at fair rodeo?

At 36, Beau Hill is starting to feel the effects of a lifetime of bull riding.

NW Montana Fair Rodeo: World's finest flock to the fairgrounds

Dozens of the world’s best cowboys and cowgirls and many of the best in the state are coming to Kalispell this weekend for the Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo.

Golf: Whitefish's Walp, Schulz win host meet

WHITEFISH — Whitefish senior Coral Schulz opened her defense of the Class A state championship with a win at the Whitefish Invitational on Wednesday afternoon at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

Golf: Libby's Johnston ends U.S. Amateur on a high note

OLYMPIA FIELDS, Ill. — Ryggs Johnston’s run at the U.S. Amateur Championship came to an end Wednesday morning despite a seven-stroke improvement in his second round.

Car catches fire while on the move

Rule changes might help yellow perch

It is comment time again, with Fish, Wildlife and Parks seeking public comment on proposed fishing regulations for 2016 and beyond.

Transparency urged for wildlife agency

To help determine the future of Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, the agency turned to the public for input.

Garry James and Philip Schreier guns

Hardware Store guns

Experts examine Conrad firearms collection

A collection of firearms that belonged to Kalispell founder Charles E. Conrad have returned home, and are the focus of an exhibit at the Conrad Mansion this weekend.

Stephanie Brinkman and Kristian Bush

Country star meets his fans at Goodwill

Before his Kalispell concert on Wednesday, music star Kristian Bush, part of the Platinum-selling country duo, Sugarland, met a host of fans at Evergreen’s Goodwill store.

If you have to leave, what do you take?

With fires triggering evacuation and pre-evacuation notices, dozens of people face the prospect of leaving their homes behind, or else staying behind and risking their lives along with their houses.

Cabinet secretary touts early education during visit to Pablo college

Sylvia Burwell, secretary of Health and Human Services in the Obama administration, visited Pablo on Tuesday to promote the importance of early education.

Sheep Fire helicopter work

Marston Fire

Abbey Buck, center, her sister Breanna Buck, right, and Darci Hooper, background, from a fire crew out of Geraldine work through the hotspots on the Marston fire on Wednesday, August 19, south of Eureka. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Essex on alert as fire grows near

Pre-evacuation notice in effect

A pre-evacuation notice is in effect for Essex and the surrounding area as increased activity on the Sheep Fire — burning about 2 miles due south of the community — was expected to pick up significantly Wednesday night and today.

Sheep Fire Aug. 18

Noxon Fire Map

Fire prompts evacuations north of Noxon

The Napoleon Fire, burning an estimated 2,160 acres north of the towns of Noxon and Heron, prompted evacuations Wednesday along six miles of Montana 56.

Plane off runway

No one hurt in Kalispell plane mishap

No one was injured Wednesday morning when a small plane left the runway and ended up on its nose at Kalispell City Airport.

Glacier's Avery second at Great Falls golf tournament

GREAT FALLS — Glacier senior Teigan Avery shot a second-round best 8-over-par 79 but finished two strokes behind tournament medalist Hayden Flohr of Billings West, whose first round 74 was enough to hold off the field on a tough second round.

Johnston's second round halted by darkness at U.S. Amateur

OLYMPIA FIELDS, Ill. — Libby’s Ryggs Johnston stayed late at the driving range after his first round, hoping for a “better ball-striking day” Tuesday at the U.S. Amateur Championship.

Daybook

Gail (Coates) McCormack, 75

Donald Everett Bosshardt, 80

Dennis Lynn Baldwin, 68

Dennis Lynn Baldwin, 68, of Kila, passed away Monday, Aug. 10, 2015, in Scottsdale, Arizona, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

David Adam Roberts, 37

Please, don't take our red buses

County extends Whitefish 'doughnut' interim zoning

The Flathead County commissioners on Monday agreed to extend interim zoning in the “doughnut” area around Whitefish for one more year as the county works toward permanent zoning in that area.

West Valley zone change gets preliminary nod

Flathead County Commissioners Pam Holmquist and Phil Mitchell on Monday approved a resolution of intent to change the zoning on 109 acres of Commissioner Gary Krueger’s farmland in the West Valley area.

Review panel to consider ombudsman for Whitefish

A proposal to create an ombudsman position for the city of Whitefish is among the items the Whitefish Local Government Study Commission wants city voters to consider.

Council passes 2016 budget

The Kalispell City Council passed its 2016 budget Monday night, granting spending authority for city departments and services.

New hotel coming to Kalispell

A four-story, 101-unit Marriott Springhill Suites is planned in the Spring Prairie commercial subdivision in north Kalispell.

Country star Bush visits Kalispell

The Northwest Montana Fair welcomes country artist Kristian Bush as this year’s headline act  on the grandstand stage at 7:30 p.m. today.

TODAY AT THE FAIR

FAIR OFFICIALLY OPENS

Road job winds down

Paving starts today on the second phase of U.S. 93 reconstruction west of Whitefish and will continue over the next two weeks except for a pause over the weekend.

County wants to exempt farming from fire restrictions

The Flathead County commissioners will meet Thursday morning to consider exempting farming operations and welding operations with available water sources from Stage 2 fire restrictions.

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Ben Brown of the FFA brushes his hog Houdini at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ethan Bay of the Montford Egan Eagles 4-H Club holds his sheep Zues and his ribbon for winning the reserve championship in the junior novice showmanship at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Bo Modderman of the Swan River 4-H Club shows his sheep Platinum during the Northwest Montana Fair on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Seven-year-old Miley Fritz of the Lasalle Booster 4-H club cleans the stall of her sheep at the Trade Center of the Flathead County Fairgrounds. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Erin O'Neil of the Trailblazers 4-H Club leads her mini Hereford Blaze during the senior novice beef judging on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jayme Evenson of the FFA smiles after winning the Reserve Grand Champion in the senior novice showmanship during the Northwest Montana Fair on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Jazz Camp

(Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Whitefish Jazz Camp

The DeSoto Grill opens in the old Forge in Kalispell

Shawnna Steele dishes up a few plates at lunch on Monday, August 17, at the DeSoto Grill in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

DeSoto Grill opens

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101 fires burning across Northwest Montana

Tougher outdoor restrictions take effect Thursday

With as many as 101 wildfires burning across Northwest Montana, new fire restrictions go into effect on Thursday.

Flathead River Erosion

Rusby Seabaugh and Steve Sekelsky along a section of the Flathead River on Thursday, August 13, in Lower Valley. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Henneford Fine Furniture

Examples of pieces made by Steve Henneford. None of his wood products are stained, only sealed. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

100 Fold Summer Studio

Joel Effland of the University of Texas Austin, atop ladder, works on the stage that the 100 Fold Summer Studio students are building in Lakeside on Monday, August 10. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Johnston shoots 78 at U.S. Am Championship golf tournament

OLYMPIA FIELDS, Ill. — Ryggs Johnston of Libby shot an 8-over-par 78 on the first day of play at the U.S. Amateur Championship golf tournament at Olympia Fields Country Club on Monday.

Babe Ruth Baseball World Series: Glacier falls short in final game of pool play

LAWRENCEBURG, Tenn. — A five-run second inning carried South Brazoria County (Texas) to an 8-2 victory over the Glacier All-Stars on the final day of National Division pool play at the 2015 Babe Ruth Baseball 13-15 World Series.

AA prep golf: Avery cards 77, 3 shots off the pace

GREAT FALLS — Teigan Avery of Glacier opened the high school golf season with a 5-over-par 77 on Monday at the Great Falls Invitational.

Daytime donations urged to thrift store

A thrift store run by the Flathead Food Bank has been the target of vandalism and thefts recently.

Bear Creek Fires growing in Bob Marshall Wilderness

Thunderstorms last week generated a profusion of fire starts in and around the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex, and resource shortages have complicated the challenge of prioritizing firefighting efforts for the Spotted Bear Ranger District.

Maybe not the best way to get a ride

Rail park player pulls support for grant funding

Developers of a proposed industrial rail park in east Kalispell are reeling after a business withdrew its support for key grant funding.

Fires stretch resources

Although cool temperatures over the weekend and on Monday helped slow the progress of the multitude of fires burning in Northwest Montana, fire managers are fighting for every available resource as drought, heat and lightning storms have scorched thousands of acres throughout the Northwestern United States.

Whitefish sues county over farmland zone change

 The city of Whitefish is suing Flathead County over the county’s recent approval of a zone change allowing smaller lot sizes on 62 acres of farmland near Whitefish.

Thompson Fire

The Thompson Fire burns Sunday in the Glacier National Park backcountry about 12 miles southwest of Saint Mary and west of Medicine Grizzly Peak.

Discount carnival ticket sales end Tuesday

Discounted tickets for the 2015 Northwest Montana Fair carnival are on sale until 5 p.m. Tuesday at CHS Convenience Store, 120 W. Idaho in Kalispell, all six Whitefish Credit Union branches and the fairgrounds office in Kalispell.  

Jean M. Oberem, 88

Jean M. Oberem passed away Aug. 11, 2015, of a massive stroke in Seaside, Oregon, with her daughter and granddaughters at her side.

Judith M. Hillman Allison, 74

Judith M. Hillman Allison, 74, passed away peacefully with her family by her side on Aug. 2, 2015, under hospice care at The HealthCenter in Kalispell.

Northwest Montana State Fair

Conner Byle, 11, of Kalispell, sweeps the lane for all the competitors before the weighing of the pigs begins on Monday morning, August 17, at the Northwest Montana State Fair. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Missing hiker found dead from apparent fall

A 59-year-old Eureka man who had been missing for five days was found dead Sunday afternoon.

Glacier picks up first win at Babe Ruth World Series

LAWRENCEBURG, Tenn. — Drew Scherrer tossed a 2-hitter and drove in two runs while Logan Kolodejchuk and Thomas Hellwig both had three RBI to help the Glacier All-Stars notch their first victory, a 13-1 triumph over Giles County, Tennessee, on Sunday at the 2015 Babe Ruth 13-15 World Series baseball tournament at Denver Trapp Field.

Kootenai National Forest fires growing

A number of lightning-caused fires in the Kootenai National Forest are enough cause for concern that the Northeast Kootenai Complex was designated to coordinate attacks on the five major fires.

Lower exchange rate affects Canadian spending

THE LOONIE FACTOR

Canadian license plates are still a common sight in the Flathead Valley. There’s nothing unusual about the Northern neighbors reaching into Northwest Montana in search of getting a little more leverage for their loonies.

Final budget on Kalispell council agenda

More than $50 million in spending could be approved tonight as the Kalispell City Council vote on the city’s final fiscal year 2016 budget.

Whitefish parking district takes shape

The city of Whitefish is in the final throes of creating a special improvement district to pay for a portion of the cost of building a downtown parking structure as part of the new City Hall complex.

Gov. Bullock declares state of fire emergency

As fires around the state continue to grow, Montana Gov. Steve Bullock has declared a state of fire emergency, allowing him to mobilize state resources and the Montana National Guard to help fight the fires.

Longtime 4-H leader sees value in youth program

Thirty-four years ago, Linda Stewart wanted to get involved with the Swan River Buttons & Bows 4-H Club, and as luck would have it she was in the right place at the right time.

Woman calls police for event assistance

Monday Profile: Linda Stewart

Linda Stewart helps her granddaughter Delcy Stewart with the huckleberry muffin recipe she plans to enter in the Northwest Montana Fair. 

Canadian shoppers hit Costco

Angie Shaw of Cardston, Alberta, loads her truck with groceries from Costco on Thursday.

Fair

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Libby's Longshot: 15-year-old Ryggs Johnston takes aim at the U.S. Amateur

OLYMPIA FIELDS, Ill. — In a field of 312 golfers at the U.S. Amateur Championship golf tournament at Olympia Fields Country Club in suburban Chicago, only three are younger than Libby’s Ryggs Johnston.

Baseball: Glacier 15s fall in first game at Babe Ruth World Series

LAWRENCEBURG, Tenn. — Nearly rained out again, the Glacier 13-15 All-Stars struggled once play finally started for them at the Babe Ruth Baseball World Series, falling to the Southeast champions from Sarasota, Florida, 13-5 in their first game of tournament play.

Fire near Meadow Peak at 160 acres

A fire at Twin Creek that started Friday has grown to 160 acres, according to the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.

New look ahead for top of Big Mountain taurant, patrol HQ

Whitefish Mountain Resort upgrading restaurant, patrol office

Whitefish Mountain Resort is en route to completing a $1.2 million renovation project that will upgrade the Summit House restaurant and Ski Patrol Headquarters.

OPINION: It's time to end the professional political class

Political fix?

Back in June, Shawn Hannity had presidential hopeful Carly Fiorina on his program for the entire hour and she made a comment which most Americans are now beginning to understand. To paraphrase Fiorina: It is time to get rid of the Professional Politician Cadre.

EDITORIAL: Coal is key for better Crow future

Rep. Ryan Zinke has been a strong supporter of Montana’s development of its coal resource, and has been especially outspoken about how Obama administration environmental rules will have a devastating effect on the Crow Tribe in Eastern Montana.

LETTER: Raw milk is safe and healthy: Here's why

Do you wonder why so many Montanans prefer raw milk to pasteurized milk and are willing to risk buying it through the underground market? Could it be the difference between living and dead food?

LETTER: Socialist Bernie Sanders is just what the United States needs

As I speak to my fellow citizens about Bernie Sanders, I keep having people tell me versions of “I hate socialism” and refusing further discussion.

LETTER: Don't hold your breath, America

Mr. Steinle’s daughter Kathryn was allegedly murdered by Mr. Francisco Sanchez, an illegal alien on July 1, 2015, in San Francisco, a sanctuary city.

Compact foe rallies crowd for campaign to fight water deal

After its defeat two years ago, the water rights compact for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes was finally passed by the Montana Legislature in April after becoming one of the 2015 session’s most controversial bills.

OPINION: Still not convinced levy makes sense

In June I was invited twice by Mr. Jensen, the superintendent of Bigfork High School to look at his Agora plan for a $14 million levy . He expressed to me that he wished I had visited with him before I submitted a letter to the Bigfork Eagle and the Inter Lake newspapers so he could have explained the plan correctly.

OPINION: Bigfork High School improvements are needed

On Oct. 9 the registered voters of Bigfork will be asked to vote on a $14 million bond issue to renovate, expand and modernize Bigfork High School. I am writing this letter to ask for your support and a “yes” vote on Oct. 9.

OPINION: 'Wizard of Oz' remake could be based in D.C.

It has been over 75 years since the movie “The Wizard of Oz” awed viewers with its fictional fantasy. I find it bizarre how today’s political scene in Washington parallels the surreal storyline of this classical masterpiece. Let’s look at the original cast for specific examples.

Canadians fighting Waterton Lake Fire

At the northern edge of Glacier National Park, a wildfire that started Friday afternoon near Goat Haunt is approximately 25 acres.

Chamber charging fees for parade entries

Most participants in the Northwest Montana Fair parade on Friday will have to pay $20 registration fees this year.

Kalispell up in revenue, down in spending for fiscal year

With all of the numbers now in from the previous fiscal-year budget, the city of Kalispell is looking at a general fund surplus of more than $500,000.

Dogs on display: 4-H'ers showcase canine handling skills

Some dogs obeyed, others wandered off and a couple of pooches declined to perform at all, bringing one young contestant to tears at the 4-H/Open Dog Show on Friday.

OPINION: Evergreen fire leads one man to ask questions about future

As one of many residents of Evergreen, I enjoy the proximity to Kalispell coupled with our community’s flavor of country living.

OPINION: It's time to free Barry Beach

When law changes on Oct. 1, governor should intervene

“It [is] more a duty [of an attorney general] to save an innocent than to convict a guilty man.” We know we do not live in a perfect world where only the guilty are convicted and the wrongly accused go free, but prosecutors can sometimes seem more interested in winning convictions than in remembering these words of Thomas Jefferson.

Work begins on new assisted-living center

A new assisted living and memory care center is coming to Kalispell. Burlage Family Properties has broken ground on a 19-bed facility with a $1 million price tag.

2,500-acre fire among 19 on Spotted Bear District

The Spotted Bear Ranger District remains the hot spot for fires on the Flathead National Forest, with eight new fires started by Friday’s lightning storms.

Kootenai Forest contends with 14 new wildfires

The Kootenai National Forest added 14 new fires Saturday to its growing list that totals 49 wildfires that have started since Aug. 1.

COLUMN: Trump vs. Sanders: Too good to be true?

For the past year we’ve been told that Hillary Clinton is the inevitable Democratic nominee and that Jeb Bush is her virtually certain Republican opponent in the 2016 presidential race.

Wildfire smoke prompts air-quality alert

Wildfire smoke pouring into Western Montana prompted an air quality alert for 25 counties on Saturday.

William Scott Sward, 64

William Scott Sward was born Feb. 20, 1951, and passed away Aug. 8, 2015.

Ann Benich Rosenberger, 91

Ann Benich Rosenberger, the finest woman that ever lived, passed away Aug. 9, 2015. She was a down-to-earth woman, without a pretentious bone in her body, yet possessed of a fine intelligence, great taste and a wise soul. Everyone liked Annie – she was a man’s woman and a woman’s woman. She treated everyone with great class and discernment, always gracious and polite, reliable to a fault, meek and tremendously strong at the same time.

Anna Marie Wright, 86

Anna Marie Wright, 86, of Bigfork, passed away Aug. 11, 2015. in Bigfork.

Dorothy 'Mickey' L. Hoerner, 90

Dorothy “Mickey” L. Hoerner, 90, “was called home to be with her Lord and Savior” on Aug. 13, 2015.

Yosemite Campers Killed

This frame made from a video provided by KFSN-TV-abc30 shows a portion of an oak tree that split away, falling to the ground and killing two young campers in a tent at the Upper Pines campground in Yosemite National Park, Calif., Friday, Aug. 14, 2015. Park spokesman Scott Gediman declined to release the ages or any details about the two, describing them only as under age 18. (KFSN-TV-abc30 via AP)

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Dennis Rasmussen sits on a chair that was reupholstered with buffalo hide in the lobby of the Greenwood Village Inn and Suites. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Marston Fire

Bulldozers, tankers attack new fire west of Charlo

Melton Fire grows to 3,028 acres

A fire that started Friday around noon on the Flathead Indian Reservation 15 miles west of Charlo had grown to 3,028 acres by Saturday evening.

March trial set in child murder case

The trial for an Evergreen man accused of murdering a toddler will take place in March, according to a new case schedule established on Thursday.

Lamb champ piles up the trophies

Twelve-year-old champion Bailey Lake knows how to put on a show with her Sussex Hampshire cross lambs: Blend into the background and let the lamb take center stage.

Fusaro named principal of the year

Flathead High School Principal Peter Fusaro was recently named Class AA Principal of the Year.

Burned acreage soars: 55 fires now burning

As thunderstorms swept through Northwest Montana on Friday, wind, lightning and parched conditions created dozens of new fires while fanning the flames of existing ones.

Peter Fusaro

Flathead High School Principal Peter Fusaro

William Hendrix

Explore Amtrak history this weekend

All aboard the Amtrak Exhibit Train!

Funny smell was animal, not human

A West Lakeshore Drive resident reported a “strong odor of decay” to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The caller couldn’t find any animals in the area and feared that an elderly neighbor had died. Deputies responded and found a decaying deer.

Bear In Car

This Aug. 13, 2015, photo provided by Greg Creasy shows some of the damage caused to a Toyota Camry after a black bear broke into the car and became trapped, near Red Lodge, Mont., north of the eastern edge of Yellowstone National Park. Nobody was hurt in the incident. (Greg Creasy via AP)

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A CH-47 helicopter takes off to attack the Thompson Fire from the helicopter base east of West Glacier on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A man paddleboards on Lake McDonald as smoke from the fires creeps into the valley. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Birch Grove Collision

A collision at U.S. 2 and Birch Grove on Friday evening, August 14, north of Kalispell. A north bound Toyota truck ran a read light and struck a Chevy SUV that was heading west bound on Birch Grove. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Fires near Trego take off up Mount Marston

As many as 26 new fires had been reported in the Kootenai National Forest area by Friday evening, with a previously reported pair of fires on Mount Marston erupting to cover 1,200 acres.

Baseball: Rain postpones World Series debut for Glacier 15s

LAWRENCEBURG, Tenn. — The Glacier All-Stars will have to wait another day to get their first swing at the Babe Ruth Baseball 13-15-Year-Old World Series after heavy rains and thunderstorms prevented play on Friday.

Wreck on U.S. 2

First responders including the Flathead County Sheriff's Office, Montana Highway Patrol, Evergreen Fire and Rescue and Three Rivers ambulance work the scene of a collision between an SUV and the back of a logging truck on Friday evening, August 14, at Glacier Park International Airport. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Marston Fire at night

Monday Profile: Nikki Stephan

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Mirrer Bain pets Benji as she waits to start the 4-H Dog Show at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Spotted Bear River fire balloons to 1,300 acres

A 10-acre lightning-caused wildfire just north of the Spotted Bear River roared to life Thursday afternoon and is now estimated at 1,300 acres.

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Amtrak Days in Whitefish

Visitors to Amtrak Days in Whitefish will get to interact with some of the history of the trains including this display which features various train horns that sound when buttons are pushed. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Sunset on Two Medicine Lake

A view of Two Medicine Lake from the boat Sinopah, the oldest wooden boat in the fleet of wooden boats that are part of the Glacier Park Boat Company, on Saturday, August 8, in Glacier National Park. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Missing hiker had experience on Swan trail

The search continues for a 59-year-old Eureka man who didn’t return from a hike on the Swan Crest on Tuesday.

OPINION: Police are not the enemy; here's why

The question is why all the retaliatory behavior toward police? Yes, there is a history of injustice toward blacks in law enforcement and in our criminal justice system. Yes, there are good cops and bad cops, they sometimes use excessive force, and they use profiling because it saves their lives. The “crime” of “driving while black” casts the blame solely on police, and is sarcastic and simplistic.

Six apply for District Court judge opening

Six candidates submitted applications for the open Flathead County District Court judge position before the deadline passed on Wednesday.

LETTER: Gullible? How about supporters of Hillary?

Peter Stoll’s brief letter to the editor stated, “It is disturbing to contemplate how pathetically gullible a significant portion of the right wing populace has proven to be.” He makes his reference to the populace of the very outspoken, and sometimes crude, replies of Donald Trump.

LETTER: God or the IRS?

Like Granddaddy used to say, it’s time to fish or cut bait. Christians in America will have to choose their master.

LETTER: Gravelpalooza!

My son, grandson and I attended the fundraiser benefiting the Community Action Partnership of NW Montana this past Saturday. It was graciously hosted by LHC at their concrete plant.

Fires burning in Lincoln County

West of the Flathead Valley, two wildfires continued to burn Thursday in timberlands in Lincoln County.

LETTER: Thanks for saving business from fire

I would like to extend my thanks to Kalispell Police Department and Kalispell Fire Department for their excellence in responding to a fire at Dermatology Associates in Kalispell last week.  

LETTER: Native Americans do hunt by the way

Once again Bill Baum has come forth to share his vision of Montana, and as usual there is a question I feel that needs to be raised.

Storms may boost fire growth

60 mph winds espected today

A red flag warning is in effect today as three rounds of thunderstorms are forecast to hit Western Montana with potentially dramatic impacts on the fast-growing Thompson Fire in Glacier National Park.

LETTER: Refugee resettlement system is flawed

We all know that our refugee program is broken. Already, 42 terrorists who were part of a Somali community resettled in the U.S. are fighting in the Middle East, one of whom became a suicide bomber. Our government is working to bring even more refugees into the U.S. without proper background checks. Montana might be next!

Tenant thinks landlord enters at night

A renter told

EDITORIAL: The O'Shaughnessy success story

When the O’Shaughnessy Cultural Arts Center opened in 1998 in Whitefish, it was part of a grassroots downtown redevelopment project that included the construction of the Whitefish Library. Those who spearheaded the ambitious project envisioned the O’Shaughnessy serving as a community center as well as a local theater.

Daybook

Births, Published August 14, 2015

Charles Lee Culbert, 83 then

Charles Lee Culbert, 83 recent

Charles Lee Culbert, 83 middle

Charles Lee Culbert, 83

Charles Lee Culbert was born Oct. 12, 1931, and “went to be with the Lord” at the age of 83 on Aug. 12, 2015, at his home in Woods Bay.

Bernice Moen Gochanour, 92

Bernice Nora Moen Gochanour “went home to be with the Lord” on Sunday, Aug. 9, 2015, with family at her side. She would have been 93 on Oct. 5.

Karel Ann Barrett, 61

Karel Ann Barrett, 61, passed away on Aug. 12, 2015, after a three-year battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her loving family.

Flathead County asks for dismissal of fair lawsuit

The Flathead County Attorney’s Office is asking a Kalispell man to clarify allegations he made in a lawsuit against county commissioners and Fairgrounds Manager Mark Campbell.

Killer grizzly put down at Yellowstone

HELENA — Yellowstone National Park officials put down a grizzly bear Thursday after DNA tests confirmed it attacked and killed a hiker last week, a park spokeswoman said.

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Angie Shaw of Cardston, Alberta loads her truck with groceries from Costco on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Columbia Falls firefighters check out a vehicle accident Thursday on U.S. 2. No one was seriously injured when a car crashed into the guardrail on the bridge over the Flathead River. The driver of the Ford Edge Sport apparently passed out at the wheel and swerved into the guardrail. The man and his wife, both vacationing from Chicago, were headed from Great Falls to Kalispell. The eastbound vehicle ended up facing west in the center turn lane near the Teakettle Fishing Access. (Becca Parsons/Hungry Horse News)

Lightning fire grows to 135 acres

A wildfire that began during a lightning storm Wednesday morning had expanded to 135 acres by Thursday afternoon.

Eureka hiker missing on hike near Swan Lake

A 59-year-old Eureka man was reported missing after failing to return from a day hike in the Thunderbolt Mountain area east of Swan Lake.

Kristian Bush

Kristian Bush will perform at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Northwest Montana Fair welcomes Kristian Bush

The Northwest Montana Fair welcomes country performer Kristian Bush as this year’s headline act, set to perform on the grandstand stage Wednesday, Aug. 19, at 7:30 p.m. after opening artist Kelsea Ballerini.

Father and son rescued from fire

Marc and Simon Roston's backpacking trip in Glacier National Park was interrupted Sunday by the Thompson Fire. The Whitefish pair were flown out of the backcountry by helicopter. (Provided photo)

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Glacier Park trail closures

Trail closures increase as Glacier fire grows

Continuing growth of the Thompson Fire in Glacier National Park has prompted expanded trail closures in the south-central area of the park.

Thompson Fire Map Aug. 12

This map shows the area burned by the Thompson Fire in Glacier National Park. As of Aug. 12, the fire had burned 14,900 acres.

Rising country music performer returns to Montana

Riding with Sam Riddle

Country performer Sam Riddle is making his way back home to Montana to perform Tuesday, Aug. 18, at the Northwest Montana Fair at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

TERRY COLUMN: Wolfpack's new hunt

The Glacier football team is in uncharted territory.

LETTER: No special rules needed for LGBTs

I see the school district wants to create special rules for what they must consider a special group or groups of students.

LETTER: Glaciers and climate

In the Aug. 9 letter by Mary Ann Garvey about this year being so dry, she claims it is due to global warming, then she reminds us the Flathead Valley was formed by limestone from “glaciers.”

LETTER: Thank you to Judge Lympus

Congratulations go out to Judge Ted Lympus on his well-earned retirement from the bench.

LETTER: War on weeds - It's personal now

I was asked by Steve Robinson of the Flathead County Weed Department to attend a county meeting on the morning of Aug. 3. Steve asked me there so I could voice my concerns about the knapweed and thistle infestation I’ve been following for the past several years in the area east of U.S. 93 to the greater Evergreen area.

LETTER: Fair and balanced? Questions Fox can ask Hillary

Here are a few direct questions that Megyn Kelly should ask Hillary Clinton, just to keep the questions fair to all presidential candidates:

EDITORIAL: Fires don't diminish Glacier allure

It was a mind-boggling spectacle Tuesday as a monstrous smoke plume rose high in the sky from the Thompson Fire in Glacier National Park.

Whitefish High gym-floor project delayed

After just two years of use, the Whitefish High School gym floor is being replaced because of worsening performance problems, but the replacement project has run into delays this summer.

Man makes urgent but unconvincing appeal for Facebook access

Law roundup

A woman told the

Donor gives $200,000 to Birth Center expansion

An anonymous donor has helped bolster North Valley Hospital’s capital campaign for an expanded Birth Center with a check for $200,000.

Fairgrounds projects completed

Construction work has wrapped up on a second phase of infrastructure improvements at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, just in time for the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo that opens Aug. 19.

Giant chopper arrives for fire duty

A private contractor has been part the firefighting effort in Northwest Montana attacking fires from above.

FVCC seeks applicants for board opening

To fill the spot recently vacated by Bob Nystuen, the Flathead Valley Community College Board of Trustees is seeking applicants.

Hikers rescued from growing fire

A Whitefish man and his son had an unexpected helicopter ride out of the Glacier National Park backcountry Sunday when  they were rescued from the approaching Thompson Fire.

Columbia Falls plans urban renewal

Run-down, dilapidated and empty buildings.

Ryan Gembala CH-47

CH-47 helicopter

Sam Riddle

Sam Riddle is set to perform at the Northwest Montana Fair in Kalispell on Tuesday, Aug. 18.

Lightning ignites a dozen new fires in Spotted Bear area

Flathead National Forest firefighters on the Spotted Bear Ranger District scrambled Wednesday to contain 12 new fires, several burning within a few miles of the remote ranger station.

Sun Road night closure lifted

The night closure on the east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park has been lifted. The entire 52 miles of Sun Road are open to vehicles.   

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Linda Stewart helps her granddaughter Delcy Stewart with the huckleberry muffin recipe she plans to enter in the Northwest Montana Fair at Stewart's home in the Jewel Basin. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Linda Stewart helps her grandaughter Grace Stewart with her quilt she plans to enter in the Northwest Montana Fair at the Stewart's home recently. Linda's mother, Sherry Caverly, background, was also helping with the projects. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The driver of a vehicle involved in a four-vehicle accident talks on the phone. The accident occurred on U.S. 2 near the bypass. One person was transported to the hospital for apparent minor injuries. The investigation was ongoing at press time. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Bailey Lake

Gender identity becomes part of school policy

After a finale featuring 62 people addressing the Kalispell Public Schools Board of Trustees, “gender identity, sexual orientation or gender expression” were added Tuesday to the list of protected classes in the school district’s Equal Education, Nondiscrimination and Sex Equity Policy.

Downtown Deer

A pair of deer wander through the backyards of downtown Whitefish on Wednesday morning, August 12. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Discount fair tickets on sale at credit union offices

Although the Northwest Montana Fair is raising the gate admission ticket price this year, those attending the fair next week can get discounted general admission tickets at any branch of the Whitefish Credit Union.

Benefit ride to honor late laboratory leader

What better way to honor the memory of an avid cyclist than a road ride?

Man loses car 'somewhere' in Kalispell

Law roundup

A man asked the

Lakeside man charged in alleged meth ring

Federal charges have been brought against a Lakeside man for his alleged involvement in a methamphetamine distribution ring.

Bull moose pays visit to Kalispell, Evergreen

It was first spotted Monday behind the Office Max in Evergreen: A large, brown creature had nestled down in an empty field.

Daybook

Commissioner: Ex-state senator broke 7 campaign laws

HELENA  — Montana’s Commissioner of Political Practices has determined a former state senator broke at least seven campaign laws in a 2014 Republican primary election and should not appear on future ballots until those errors are corrected.

Golf tournament

Government seeks ruling against miners, protesters

HELENA — Federal prosecutors asked a judge on Tuesday to prevent two miners and their armed supporters from blocking access to public land and threatening government officials over a dispute with the U.S. Forest Service in western Montana.

Volunteers sought for new recycling program at fair

The Northwest Montana Fair will be a bit greener as it kicks off Aug. 19 for a five-day run.

Many other fires flare across NW Montana

The Thompson Fire in Glacier Park notwithstanding, Tuesday was a fiery day throughout Northwest Montana.

Thompson Fire Map

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Fred DeLay takes a photo of the smoke plume of the Thompson Fire near Nyack on U.S. 2 (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flathead Electric Cooperative solar panel installation

Installation of a new solar panel at 1840 Whitefish Stage Road on Tuesday morning, north of Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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View of the Thompson Fire from Farm-to-Market Road in West Valley

A view of the Thompson Fire from Lost Creek Road and Farm-to-Market Road in West Valley on Tuesday afternoon, August 11. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Park fire explodes to 11,400 acres

As a boiling smoke plume rose to the east of the Flathead Valley on Tuesday afternoon, the calls started coming in to the Daily Inter Lake.

Jewel Basin Road reopens after fire

The Jewel Basin Road reopened Tuesday afternoon after Flathead National Forest officials temporarily closed the popular access road Monday morning to put out a small  lightning-caused fire near Noisy Creek.

Thompson Fire map Aug. 11

Mission center celebrates 30th anniversary

After three decades of training missionaries and sending them out into the world, Youth With a Mission Montana-Lakeside is celebrating with alumni and the community.

LETTER: Vote for Bigfork bond

I was pleased to read the article in Sunday’s paper on the proposed expansion of Bigfork High School.

LETTER: Safeguard against court rewriting our culture and laws

Mr. Weed, as many liberals, seems to have difficulty (Daily Inter Lake, Aug. 2) understanding the Constitution which he accuses me of trampling “into oblivion” because I suggest a super majority of the Supreme Court be required to decide major cases to prevent politically motivated judicial activism.

LETTER: Trump popularity proves right wing is super gullible

Put a toxic jerk  on a large enough stage and his commentary quickly dissolves into farce. Would-be front running Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump certainly is the prime example these days.  

Local guest ranch stages Pink Week

The Artemis Acres Paint Horse Guest Ranch near Kalispell is going pink this week to raise money and awareness for breast cancer.

Glacier Park Airport has record July

Glacier Park International Airport continued its robust year with a record number of passengers in July, serving 942 more passengers during the month than in July 2014.

LETTER: Montana's unfinished work: conserving our finest rivers

Canoes. Pontoon boats. Drift boats. Rafts. Inner tubes. A rainbow spectrum of colorful plastic kayaks.

EDITORIAL: Time to stop the Ferguson violence

As other see it

Ferguson, Mo., has endured more than its share of violent protest since the death of teenager Michael Brown a year ago. It should not have to mark that event with more bloodshed and property damage.

LETTER: Iran treaty OKs missiles that can be used for nukes? Count me out

There have been many comments relative to the Iran nuclear treaty illuminating how bad this agreement is, and I agree. Thanks to Sen. Tester I’ve have had the opportunity to review this document online where my fears were confirmed: the treaty is very general and light on inspections but very detailed about doing away with sanctions which so greatly benefits the Iranian government.

Daybook

Phillis Florence Parr Edmiston, 87

Michael Annuel King, 69

Michael Annuel King, 69, passed away Aug. 5, 2015, from complications of COPD in Kalispell.

Janita Lois Ross, 73

Janita Lois Ross, 73, passed away Aug. 1, 2015, in Kalispell.

Neighbor advises of bear necessities

Law roundup

In the ongoing bear visitation issue in Whitefish, a Stumptown Loop resident told the

Esther Dena Hicklin, 95

Esther Dena Hicklin passed away Aug. 9, 2015, with her loving family, son, and daughter by her side. Esther was born April 20, 1920, in Belgrade.

Youth With A Mission

Fatal crash

C.F. man charged with vehicular homicide

Flathead County prosecutors have brought a vehicular homicide charge against a Columbia Falls man involved in a June 6 head-on crash that killed a Nebraska man.

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Man dies in ATV crash near Polebridge

A man died Saturday in an all-terrain-vehicle crash that also hospitalized his 8-year-old son.

'The Force' called out for dog

An Iowa Avenue resident called the

Kalispell Public Schools to have final reading of nondiscrimination policy on Tuesday

Kalispell Public Schools will have its third and final reading of its revised nondiscrimination and sex equity policy Tuesday.

Lakeside man arrested on gun, drug charges

Authorities have arrested a Lakeside man for allegedly firing a gun at a woman’s house during an argument.

Flathead teacher, fellow climbers summit Denali

Warren Lane had unfinished business with the highest peak in North America after a first failed attempt to reach the summit of Mount McKinley — widely known as Denali — with his son four years ago.

Retired referee honored

As Neil Hart tossed the coin in the air, he couldn’t help but feel grateful to be part of the experience.

Flathead Electric launches solar-panel program

Flathead Electric Cooperative members may now harness the sun’s rays through a new renewable energy program.

'The high one'

Flathead High School earth science teacher Warren Lane rises above the clouds as he climbs toward the summit of Denali, which translates to "the high one," in the Alaskan native language Athabaskan, in June.

Fire in Glacier National Park

Smoke from wildfire in Glacier National Park pours into the sky as seen from near the Moccasin Creek River Access site on U.S. 2 East on Sunday afternoon.

Wildfire reported in Thompson Creek area of Glacier National Park

A wildfire reported in the Thompson Creek drainage area in Glacier National Park had grown to an estimated 200 acres by 8 p.m. Sunday.

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Glacier 15 preparing for Babe Ruth Baseball World Series trip

Everything seems to be falling in place at the right time for Glacier 15.

Vernon T. 'Sonny' Tennant, 79

Vernon T. “Sonny” Tennant, 79, of Missoula, passed away Aug. 6, 2015, at the Stevensville Living Center.

James F. Geralds, 68

“The Lord called Jim” on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2015, at his home in Kalispell. Jim loved the Lord and his family and lived each day with a happy heart. He enjoyed helping others which reflected in his working career and many years of volunteer work in the community.

Gary Douglas Kober, 64

Gary Douglas Kober, loving and devoted husband and dad “departed this earthly world to be with our heavenly Father” on July 31, 2015.

Two applicants seek district judge position

A second applicant is now vying for a judge’s seat in Flathead County District Court.

OPINION: Clean Power Plan and high cost of symbolism

Montanans better prepare for a tighter monthly budget, because if President Obama has his way, the electricity running through your home is about to get much more expensive.

Marketplace brings local vendors under one roof

Tammy Stouffer, the owner and operator of the Made in Montana Marketplace in Bigfork, had a plan in mind when she opened her store promoting local merchants. She simply wants to give back to the state that’s already given her more than she expected.

COLUMN: Community has a heart for HEART program

The Kalispell Schools HEART program’s logo is a heart enclosed in a home connected by a lifeline to a heart with no home.

EDITORIAL: Treating prescription drug abuse

The fact that more people in Montana die from prescription drug overdoses than from car accidents is a sobering statistic. Prescription drug abuse contributes to the deaths of roughly 300 Montanans each year.

Law roundup: Possible cat burglar on the prowl

A cat burglar on Martha Road was reported to

LETTER: School board asked not to change policy on discrimination

Currently the board of trustees for Kalispell Public Schools is in favor of language regarding gender discrimination/gender identity. I beg you to reconsider your decision. 

Cabinet-Yaak grizzlies are still struggling

Despite the robust recovery of grizzly bears in the forested mountains of Glacier National Park, the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and the surrounding landscape, the great bear’s future across the region remains far from certain.

OPINION: The Sierra Club's proxy war on coal is a big plus for billionaires like Bloomberg

Cronyism isn’t popular these days. It never really has been, but growth in public awareness of the problem has forced special interests to get more creative in how they approach their rent-seeking. So it comes as no surprise to see a new report outlining how billionaires such as Michael Bloomberg have co-opted the Sierra Club to serve as proxy advocates for their personal business interests.

LETTER: A clarification about rheumatoid arthritis

In the Daily Inter Lake’s Aug. 4 article about Montana Arthritis Program classes, there was a reference that “Rheumatoid arthritis also affects many younger people.”

Eureka clinic offers MRIs for pets

Just months after purchasing and installing a state-of-the-art Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine for small animals, Dr. David Marion of Eureka thinks he has changed veterinary practices in the area for the better.

OPINION: Even with the Clean Power Plan, federal policies still favor coal

With the release of the Clean Power Plan on Aug. 3, the United States took a landmark step toward leveling the playing field among renewable and fossil fuel energy sources that will be powering our homes and businesses for decades to come.

OPINION: Montana does right thing for citizens' health needs

This week marks National Health Center Week and there is no better way to recognize the work of Montana’s Community Health Centers than to tell the story of our of our patients.

OPINION: Beware the perils of peace

The Middle East is and has always been a seemingly mysterious and faraway land for most Americans even though we have been commercially involved with the region since our very early years.

OPINION: Iran deal: A Marshall Plan to fund terrorism?

Buried within the 150-plus pages of technical minutia and regulations that make up the recently concluded nuclear deal between the P5+1 powers and the Islamic Republic of Iran lies a stunning revelation, the full import of which has not yet been adequately appreciated by the international community.

Airport gets federal grant for upgrades

Glacier Park International Airport will receive nearly $4 million for critical construction and maintenance project, U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont. announced Friday.

Lyle Gene Bowerman, 80

Lyle Gene Bowerman, 80, of Polson, passed away on July 26, 2015. Lyle was born in Hot Springs on March 9, 1935, to Walter and Sylvia (Baxter) Bowerman.

Bradley Preston Fleury, 63

Made in Montana Marketplace

OPINION: Environmentalist puts together his 'wish list'

We environmentalists are not very well-liked in Montana. The Democrats don’t like us. The Republicans hate us. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Forest Service consider us a problematic, litigious, pain in the butt. And hunters and trappers despise us. Only the lawyers and the vast majority of Americans like us… and the wildlife love us dearly.

LETTER: 'A challenging year for gardeners,' plus observations on climate change

As the dry spell continues, gardeners are being tested for their persistence with watering. At the Kalispell Community Garden on Hawthorn Avenue, gardeners have been busy since they planted seeds trying to keep moisture in the soil.

OPINION: A place to park - and a time to stand for principle

Mayor Johnson assured City Council members at the recent City Council meeting he would not be re-appointing anyone to a city board who sued or threaten to sue the city, and Councilman Guiffrida said he would not vote for anyone to serve on a city board who sued the city.  

COLUMN: Summer fun done to a 'T'

Tomorrow will be the last day of T-ball for a dedicated group of 4-5-year-olds who have spent Monday evenings in Kalispell for the past two months learning the fundamentals of baseball.

New land exchange proposal with Wilks ranch

GREAT FALLS, Mont.  — Montana’s largest landowner is proposing a new land exchange with the federal Bureau of Land Management after a previous one met opposition from hunters.

Whitefish man charged with violent rape

Whitefish police arrested a man who is accused of a violent rape that allegedly occurred Aug. 2.

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Chuck Edwards and Margaret Parodi examine the 1952 Chris Craft "Emotion," during the Big Sky Antique and Classic Boat Show in Lakeside on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jerry McManus sits in "Carlyn J," a cruising sailboat from a 2014 CLC Pocketship Kit during the Big Sky Antique and Classic Boat Show in Lakeside on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Mineral County deputy kills suspect at fairgrounds

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Laura Shea of the Rough Mamas blocks Ashley Hadley's (23) shot during a women's game at the Kalispell Fire Department 3-on-3 Tournament. The Rough Mamas defeated the ALLS. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)1

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Oz Allen of Professional Plastics goes up for a shot as Not You's Caleb Gwynn tries to block the shot during a 9th-10th grade game at the Kalispell Firefighter 3-on-3 Tournament. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

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Columbia Falls' Chase Grilley goes to block Zeb Zahns shot during the men's action at the Kalispell Firefighter 3-on-3 Tournament. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

William 'Bill' Andrew Sellers, 46

Science projects abound at GHS camp

Let the science games begin!

Glacier fire costs over $10 million

Firefighting operations at the Reynolds Creek Fire in Glacier National Park are winding down, with ground, engine and helicopter crews departing to take a hard-earned, two-day rest before redeploying to new blazes flaring up in the Western United States.

EPA seeks deal with Glencore over CFAC

With a potential Superfund designation still on the table for the shuttered Columbia Falls Aluminum Co., officials with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are negotiating with representatives from the company to guarantee cleanup of the contaminated site.

Atkinson picked to fill Whitefish School Board vacancy

Community leader Carol Atkinson has been selected to fill a vacancy on the Whitefish School Board.

Man hits pole, arrested on DUI warrant

Law roundup

A car ran into a utility pole on Third Avenue East North. The driver told the

Births, Published August 8, 2015

Daybook

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Deb Ellsworth asks about an Eric Reese Photograph during Huckleberry Days Art Festival on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Linda McCullough of Ronan examines a vase at the Mountain Brook Studio during the Huckleberry Days Art Festival on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Carol Atkinson

August of Art

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The crew picks up a discarded rim that was used for target practice near the Sylvia Lake Trailhead. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A hard hat and gloves sits on the bed of a truck after the Youth Conservation Corps crew finished with their trail work for the day. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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East side of Sun Road re-opens!

Libby's Johnston 3rd at Big I National golf

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ryggs Johnston, who topped the leaderboard for the middle two rounds, came up short on the final day of the 47th annual Trusted Choice Big “I” National Championship golf tournament at Prairie Dunes Country Club.

Ukulele player causes concern

There was a man straddling the center line on U.S. 2 near Kalispell, and he was armed with a ukulele. A witness told the

Officials monitor Three Sisters Fire in Bob Marshall Wilderness

Fire managers with the Flathead National Forest are monitoring a 43-acre wildfire in the Bob Marshall Wilderness that was first spotted Tuesday near Three Sisters Creek, but are currently allowing the small blaze to run its natural course.

Hotshot crews focus on Sun Road mop-up

Renolds Creek fire

Officials with Glacier National Park and the team battling the Reynolds Creek Fire expect that the Going-to-the-Sun Road east of Logan Pass will open in the not-too-distant future.

OPINION: Impeach President Obama over Iran deal

The current president of the United States of America has proven himself as anti-American with the negotiations with the terrorist state of Iran and the dramatic reduction of U.S.A. military forces and funding.

Glacier visitation numbers strong

Despite the east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road’s ongoing closure due to the Reynolds Creek Fire, Glacier National Park is still on pace to break last year’s record visitation, according to a report released by the National Park Service on Thursday.

OPINIOPN: Community member explains need to expand Bigfork high school

Periodically, a community is presented an opportunity to choose to invest their tax dollars in a local project. In such cases it is very beneficial if as many voters as possible are made aware of the project and have a chance to voice their opinions and provide input.

OPINION: FVCC's proposal for education degree questioned

FVCC is exploring the possibility of a joint bachelors degree in education with the College of Education at the University of Montana. I question the wisdom of this.

EDITORIAL: 24/7 sobriety program is life-saver

Drinking and driving is not just a crime; it is also a huge social problem, especially here in Montana. It ruins lives; destroys families; and, yes, kills innocent people.

Daybook

Kalispell Chamber embraces ride-sharing bill as entrepreneurial opportunity

Kalispell Chamber of Commerce President Joe Unterreiner said he’s looking forward to the potential expansion of ride-sharing transportation services around the Flathead Valley.

Kalispell man sentenced for three drug felonies

By MATT HUDSON

Meals on Wheels program needs more volunteers

By RYAN MURRAY

Reynolds Fire aftermath

Profile: Neil Hart

Neil Hart and his wife Janice smile as they remember Neil's days as a referee. "There were plenty of nights she had to stay home alone with the kids," recalls Hart. The couple has been married since 1952. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Neil Hart

A portrait of Neil Hart in his home in Buffalo Hills Terrace on Thursday, Aug. 6. Hart was an honorary referee for the 69th Annual Montana East-West Shrine Game on June 18, in Great Falls. He was given this honor commemorating his role as a referee 50 years ago.

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Flathead Electric Co-op Energy Services Supervisor Ross Holter is spearheand the Solar Utility Network, a program where members can purchase a solar panel. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flathead Electric Co-op Energy Services Supervisor Ross Holter is spearheand the Solar Utility Network, a program where members can purchase a solar panel. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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John Goroski recharges his Chevy Volt at a recharging station in front of Flathead Electric Cooperative in Kalispell on Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2015. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Christine Connolly, a senior at Glacier, helps Miller Bushnell, left and Van Scholten with a dissection during Science Games. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Winston Gray watches his car powered by a ballon speed away during the Science Games at Glacier High School on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Peyton Bicha blows up his balloon as he prepares to test the car he built during the Science Games at Glacier High School on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Suspect interviewed in Evergreen fire; cigarette is suspected cause

Flathead Business Journal: Profit Mastery

Mark Moriarty of Next Level Fitness takes notes in session two of the Profit Mastery course with John Balsam on Thursday, August 6, at Flathead Valley Community College. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Mountain View Drive Fire, Evergreen

Photos of the fire on Mountain View Drive by Daily Inter Lake photographers Aaric Bryan and Brenda Ahearn

Vehicle Fire on Columbia Stage

Creston fire departments as well as the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation and the Flathead County Office of Emergency Services on Thursday morning, August 6, east of Kalispell. Fire Manager Lincoln Chute said part of the reason for calling in so many responders was the proximity of the vehicle to both the home and a shed. But there was also a great degree of concern on account of the dry conditions. "Residents need to be especially careful," warned Chute. "We were lucky in that a vehicle generates less embers than a structure fire." The cause of the fire has not yet been determined. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Community Garden

Laurell Hartle of Kalispell harvests some greens from her Glacier Community Garden plot on Thursday morning, August 6, in Kalispell. According to Pastor Jamie Woods of Glacier Church the community garden has been operating for four years. "We had the land, and good soil," said Woods, "as a church we wanted to do this to bless as many people in the community as possible." The plots are limited but they are free. "Most of the plots in the garden are used by people who are not members of our church," said Woods. The garden is located along Grandview Drive across from Flathead Valley Community College. For more information on the garden visit: www.glacierchurch.org (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Best of Flt 2015

Montana Life: Whitefish Theatre Company needs to expand

Captain Hook's hook! Managing director Gayle MacLaren said whenever they bring people up for tours of the costume storage room they want to stay and play. MacLaren refers to the room as an "adult playroom."  (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Fire in Evergreen

Fire in Bob Marshall reaches 43 acres

Chasing dreams with Marshall Catch

'Something deeper'

Marshall Catch first hit the local music scene in 2010, with a combination of hard economic times, friendship and passion for songwriting. The last five years have seen even harder times for the rotating cast of band members, but ultimately chemistry and serendipity have created a group that’s here to stay.

This Week in the Flathead | Aug. 6-12

Libby's Johnston stays on top at Big I tournament

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ryggs Johnston of Libby shot an even-par 70 on Wednesday to maintain his one-shot advantage at the 47th annual Trusted Choice Big “I” National Championship golf tournament at Prairie Dunes Country Club.

All hands on deck! Boat show celebrates 10 years in Lakeside

The Lakeside Antique & Classic Boat Show is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this weekend.

Glacier's Reynolds Creek Fire now 67 percent contained

Reynolds Creek Fire crews moved their containment efforts to the Going-to-the-Sun Road on Wednesday as the blaze slowed on the western perimeter.

Health initiative quietly making a difference

A group of volunteers and Kalispell hospital employees are working to make the Flathead a healthier place, and have been doing so nearly incognito for years.

Is President Obama booking a room in the Canyon?

A hotel in Coram received a call from two “Secret Service” men who wanted to book a room for President Obama. The employee who took the call said the credit card went through but was skeptical what was going on. The

Champion land sailor displays boat at Lakeside show

World championship land sailor John Eisenlohr will be at the 10th annual Big Sky Antique & Classic Boat Show in Lakside this weekend to showcase his latest design, the Mini Skeeter Iceboat.

St. Mary entrance station may be replaced

Glacier National Park is proposing to replace the historic St. Mary entrance station and install an aquatic invasive species inspection station as part of the Going-to-the-Sun Road rehabilitation project.

Anglers catching fish despite several summer challenges

Folks who have been paying attention over the last couple of months have seen fishing conditions unlike any they have encountered around here for a long time, if ever. Virtually no runoff, unprecedented water temperatures and temperatures that rose like a rocket before it was even the middle of June were just a couple of things we have had to adjust to. On the other hand, I haven’t spoken to anyone who has complained about the fishing; on the contrary, everyone, it seems, is catching fish.

LETTER: Parking war has only one solution

The Flathead High School parking shortage has been a festering sore and in the news for a long time.

Marshall Catch

Marshall Catch includes Matt Haun, Luke Lautaret, Jared Denney and Tyler Rounds.

FVCC expands CDL program at Libby campus

Citing long and inefficient commutes, Flathead Valley Community College has expanded a fledgling Commercial Driving License program at its Lincoln County Campus in Libby.

Group still opposing Whitefish City Hall project

Whitefish’s rejection of a petition to put the City Hall project up to a public vote hasn’t stopped a group from pushing forward with its effort to cap spending on the $14.95 million city facility and attached parking structure.

Park officials suggest alternative trails

Glacier National Park officials are asking people to consider visiting a different region of the park other than the Going-to-the-Sun Road to Logan Pass.

Listening session to glean input about 10-year FWP plan

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will hold a public listening session Wednesday, Aug. 12, in Kalispell to gather input on values, needs and priorities as it develops its 10-year plan, dubbed the “’15 & Forward” initiative.

LETTER: Lion and the lamb: Who are you going to protect?

I have read that many of the major airlines have made a key management decision to not transport trophy body parts of animals killed in the African jungles. The media is in full throttle mode reporting on this great decision. I have noticed in articles in the electronic media that there are thousands of folks commenting who are also so excited about this change. All of this because of one lion allegedly killed outside of the law.

LETTER: Sen. Tester urged to rethink Iran deal, funding for Planned Parenthood

There currently are two items being considered in the Senate that concern me enough to cause me to send Sen. Jon Tester an e-mail.

EDITORIAL: Tonight's debate(s): Must-see TV?

It’s hard to get fired up about a stage full of politicians, but when one of the politicians is Donald Trump, you have to wonder how many times tonight we will hear the catchphrase “You’re fired!”

Daybook

Births, Published August 6, 2015

Search for downed helicopter in Beaver Lake

Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry, right, and Search and Rescue Coordinator Brian Heino and others take part in the search for a downed helicopter in Beaver Lake on Wednesday, August 5, north of Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Fire in Evergreen

A firefighter battles a fire in an outbuilding south of the main structure fire on Wednesday, August 5, on Mountain View Drive in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Large loads pass through Kalispell

If everything went according to plan, two oversized loads of refinery equipment moved through the Flathead Valley Wednesday night on their way to Great Falls and then Canada, according to Gary Engman of the Montana Department of Transportation.

Fire gives Evergreen a scare

Rapid and intense response limits major damage to one home, sheds

Fire departments from across the Flathead Valley scrambled to contain a fire that consumed multiple out-buildings and a home in Evergreen late Wednesday afternoon.

Log Truck Rollover on Reserve

Shortly before 3 p.m. a log truck rollover blocks the west bound lane and center turn lane of West Reserve Drive in Evergreen at the entrance to Plum Creek. Firefighters from Evergreen Fire and Rescue were among the first responders on scene helping to reroute traffic. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Compliance officer Heidi Lachenmaier works in the new Whitefish Credit Union operation center in the Forum Building in South Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan)

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Sierra Hubble, a loan processor for Whitefish Credit Union, enters data at the operations center. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Koral Wohlschlegel, left, and Kelly St. Onge of the Whitefish Credit Union member business lending department punch numbers at the credit union's operations center. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Whitefish Union Credit Union moved their operations center to the Forum Building in South Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake

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Kalispell Police officer Jason Parce talks with Jim Pigman while working at the MacKenzie River in north Kalispell on Tuesday for the Law Enforcement Torch Run Tip-A-Cop fundraising events. Law enforcement agents worked at the MacKenzie River locations in Kalispell and Whitefish and $1 of all pizza specials were donated to regional Special Olympic Programs

Spectacular Sunrise

A view of sunrise on Wednesday August 5, between Kalispell and Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Libby's Johnston leads Big I National Championship golf tournament

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Ryggs Johnston shot a 3-under-par 67 on Tuesday to move into the lead at the 47th annual Trusted Choice® Big “I” National Championship golf tournament at the Prairie Dunes Country Club.

Glacier fire containment holding steady

The Reynolds Creek Fire, burning through nearly 4,000 acres on the east side of Glacier National Park, is holding steady at about two-thirds containment, and fire officials say that number likely won’t move up too much as crews continue to gain control over the blaze.

Officials identify fire victims

Officials have released the names of a mother and her child who died in a house fire Monday.

Parking permit cost increased to $25

One major piece of the Flathead High School parking plan was changed just before a final vote on Monday.

Lawsuit threatened over FHS parking plan

The harshest critic of Kalispell’s Flathead High School-area parking plan threatened court action as the measure received a final vote from the City Council Monday night.

Public poles not public forums, city ordinances say

The public-space flyer pole, covered in layers of concert notices and missing pet photos, is not what the city of Kalispell has in mind for its property.

State seeks info on poached bull moose near Kalispell

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is looking for information regarding a bull moose that was shot and left alongside Orchard Ridge Road near Foys Canyon.

Zone Family Fun Center closing

After nearly five years of offering laser tag, arcade prizes and hand-tossed pizza, The Zone Family Fun Center is closing.

Whitefish prepares to relocate city offices

The city of Whitefish is moving its offices and City Council chambers to another location at the end of August in preparation for the construction of a new City Hall.

Daybook

Emergency etiquette: Don't chat on 911

Emergency dispatch received a call from a woman who just wanted to talk “because she was lonely.” She stated that she had a “wonderful” husband who bought her things, however. The woman was counseled on proper use of 911 and the information was passed on to the

Glenda Depew Weddle, 71

Robert B. Markle, 80

Robert B. Markle, 80, died with cancer July 25, 2015, at home with loved ones at his side.

Eric Scott Gustafson, 49

Eric Scott Gutafson was born Dec. 22, 1965, in Whitefish to Don and Zoe Gustafson.

Patricia Ann 'Patt' Truman, 69

Patricia Ann “Patt” Truman was born July 11, 1946, in Whitefish to Lyle and Mildred Black Truman.

Sherry Jane Dillon, 61

Patricia Donalda (McMillan) White, 77

On Aug. 1, 2015, the dearest of ladies passed from this fair earth with her loving family caring for her. Per her wishes, Patricia was at home in Lakeside under fine hospice and private care. She is dearly missed by everyone who knew her.

Marshall Catch at Thursday Fest

Marshall Catch playing at Thursday Fest on July 30, in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Festival Amadeus: Student Solo and Ensemble Recital

Tommy Diegel, a student at Flathead High School, performs the Adagio Allegro from Sonata in D by Galliard on Monday afternoon, August 3, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Glacier 15 to play in Babe Ruth World Series

THE DALLES, Ore. — Glacier 15 is headed for the Babe Ruth World Series.

Man arrested for allegedly drugging, raping woman

A Kalispell man has been arrested and accused of drugging and raping a 20-year-old woman.

Man not acting very presidential

There was an incoherent man reportedly trying to break into houses on South Cedar Drive, according to the

Kalispell fitness centers hosting Montana Arthritis Program classes

Millions of Americans and thousands of Montanans suffer from some kind of arthritis in their daily lives. Programs run by the Department of Public Health and Human Services seek to offer reprieves from the painful affliction.

Popeyes chicken franchise coming to south Kalispell

A new fast food franchise will be built soon on the south side of Kalispell.

District court working to replace Judge Lympus

The selection process is under way to replace the current longest-serving Flathead County District Court judge.

Kalispell man charged with sexual assault of teen girl

A Kalispell man accused of molesting a 13-year-old girl is headed to court.

Law officers work restaurant shifts for Special Olympics fundraiser

Area law enforcement officers will be serving up pizzas and other dishes for a cause today.

Hot, dry weather challenges fire crews

Spot fires and continued burning up the Rose Creek and Baring Creek drainages on the east side of Glacier National Park brought the Reynolds Creek Fire’s total area up to 3,913 acres by Monday morning.

Smoke prompts health alerts

While visitors to Glacier National Park might be cursing the Reynolds Creek Fire for hours-long delays along the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road, that wildfire isn’t to blame for the dense smoke obscuring the Flathead Valley over the past two days.

Logging truck spills load on Montana 35

Lake County officials observe and contain the scene on Montana 35 near Blue Bay on Flathead Lake on Monday afternoon, where an overturned logging truck snapped a cable line. Officials were turning away drivers in both directions, saying the delays could take hours.

Clifford Elmer Willis Jr., 71

On July 28, 2015, we said goodbye to a father, brother, uncle and friend. Cliff passed away with his family by his side, knowing we loved him dearly.

Louise (Amundson) Myles, 78

Louise (Amundson) Myles, 78, died July 16, 2015, at The Springs in Whitefish.

MarieElena 'Lena' Sandlin, 73

MarieElena “Lena” Sandlin, 73, died Friday, July 31, 2015, after a long illness. 

Doris Marie (Westergard) Pfefferkorn, 88

Fatal fire on Trumble Creek Road

House fire on Trumbull Creek Road

Fire totally consumed this home on Trumble Creek Road south of Whitefish on Monday morning. Two people are unaccounted for. (Chris Peterson/Hungry Horse News)

Officials: Two dead in house fire south of Whitefish

Wayfarer's State Park

Kimiko Terai, 8 and her brother Kiyoshi, 5, of Cranbrook, British Columbia play at Flathead Lake on Monday, August 3, in Bigfork. A summer trip to Montana has become a yearly tradition for the family. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

4th Avenue EN closed

Fourth Avenue EN in Kalispell is closed this week for road work. If the weather is good the road is expected to reopen early next week. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Smoky Sunrise

A smoky sunrise breaks over the mountains near Creston on Monday, August 3. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

All About Dogs Cover

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Retired police officer turns experiences into novel

Brian Harris saw a lot during his 22 years in law enforcement. Now he’s sharing that experience with the world through his first novel, “I’ll Spell It Out.”

FVCC students want housing

After several months of study, an independent contractor has found that Flathead Valley Community College students have a strong demand for student housing.

High winds complicate firefighting efforts

Low humidity and high winds are complicating efforts to contain the Reynolds Creek Fire in Glacier National Park, which has more or less stabilized at 3,558 acres.

Vandal gains access to medical files

Storage unit break-ins have become commonplace in the Flathead, but a recent incident had an unusual twist when a Kalispell medical practice discovered that its stored patient files had been accessed improperly.

Monterra addition focus of Whitefish hearing

A request to build 66 more dwelling units in the Montana housing development in Whitefish goes before the Whitefish City Council tonight for a public hearing.

Teens trying to take tot's toys

A woman on Colorado Avenue called the

Permit fee, final parking plan vote ahead for Kalispell City Council

The price of parking in the new Westside Neighborhood Parking Management Zone could be $10.

Polebridge business gets new owner

Heather Matthews has gone from customer to owner of the Northern Lights Saloon and Cafe in Polebridge.

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State A Legion baseball tournament: Lakers knocked out by Lethbridge

The Kalispell Lakers opened the scoring on Saturday, but couldn’t stop Lethbridge from doing the same, falling 14-1 in a loser-out game in the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A state baseball tournament at Griffin Field.

LETTER: Right-wing views are outlandish

P. David Myerowitz has once again expressed views in an Inter Lake guest opinion that are so outlandish they cannot go unanswered.

OPINION: Seek redress of grievances caused by water compact

Legal remedy?

Since July 4, 1776, the United States of America has remained a unique global experiment in which Enlightenment-era principles (political, social, economic, scientific, philosophical and legal) have been deployed to successfully promote and defend our natural rights-based individualism and freedoms, especially private property.

Columbia Falls kayaker circles Flathead Lake for Special Olympics

For the second year in a row, Brian McGough of Columbia Falls will paddle his kayak around Flathead Lake over a period of five days to raise money and awareness for Special Olympics Montana - Glacier Area.

Tutvedt earns state Chamber award

The Montana Chamber of Commerce has named Sen. Bruce Tutvedt, R-Kalispell, the Legislature’s Most Valuable Policymaker.

LETTER: Ask Sen. Tester to stop Iran deal while we still can

The Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act (Public Law 114-17) prevents the president from waiving or suspending congressional sanctions before Congress itself has the chance to vote on an agreement, if one is reached.

OPINION: Human rights? No. Bodily liberty? Yes

The Manhattan Supreme Court in New York City recently heard the case of two chimpanzees named Hercules and Leo, which were apparently caged while undergoing research at Stony Brook University. Represented by the Nonhuman Rights Project, the suit contends that the pair should have a right to “bodily liberty” and that any caging of these primates violates their rights.

Funding challenge raises $163,000

Local nonprofit groups participating in the Whitefish Community Foundation’s Great Fish Community Challenge fundraising campaign have raised more than $163,000 over the past seven weeks.

LETTER: Will grizzlies go the way of Cecil?

People all over the world are outraged by the senseless killing of the African lion named Cecil in Zimbabwe by the Minnesota dentist.

LETTER: Glad that Montana finally passed Medicaid expansion

Every paycheck, Montanans are sending their hard-earned dollars to pay for other states’ health-care programs. I am sick of seeing people across the country use my tax dollars for health care while my Montana neighbors are still not covered.

Firefighting force reduced to 520

Temperature hits record 101

The Reynolds Creek Fire continues to burn on the east side of Glacier National Park, but the firefighting force has been reduced by about 150 people over the last three days.

OPINION: We owe veterans our very best

My daughter is a Navy diver, my son-in-law is an active duty Navy SEAL, and I spent 23 years as a Navy SEAL, leading countless young men through underwater demolition training and commanding thousands more men and women in Iraq.

LETTER: Is Cecil's story part of a larger picture?

Only someone living in a spiritual vacuum could escape feeling a deep sadness about the ruthless killing of Cecil the lion in Zimbabwe last week. A worldwide torrent of outrage was sparked by the American dentist and trophy hunter who lured Cecil out of a protected area to shoot him with a crossbow. Cecil suffered for hours until he was tracked down and killed.

Edward H. Folkwein, 67

Edward H. Folkwein, of Columbia Falls, died Monday, July 27, 2015, in a bicycle accident in the state of Washington.

Evelyn Florence Branine, 79

Evelyn Florence Branine, 79, passed away peacefully, after a courageous fight with vascular disease, surrounded by her family at her home in Columbia Falls on July 18, 2015.

Linda (Hedge) Greer, 43

Linda (Hedge) Greer, 43, passed away peacefully on July 28, 2015, at the Health Center in Kalispell.

COLUMN: Embracing the arts is a worthy endeavor

If we’re lucky in life, we have been raised by parents who taught us to appreciate the arts.

Doris Elizabeth (Lyonais) Davis, 79

Doris passed quickly on March 20, 2015, at Valley Care Hospital in Pleasanton, California, of an aortic aneurysm. Her children Greg Davis and Lisa Maneatis were at her side. She was anointed and blessed by the hospital chaplain, then cremated at Graham-Hitch Mortuary in Pleasanton.

COLUMN: Trump trips up the rich and famous (media elites & GOP snobs)

It certainly is satisfying to see the Republican Party establishment squirm at the meteoric rise of Donald Trump to front-runner status in the GOP presidential race.

Drought, heat put stress on huckleberry plants, grizzlies - and human pickers

Berries & bears

Despite scattered showers over the past month, Northwest Montana’s huckleberry crop is feeling the effects of a notably dry, hot year that kicked off with a dismal snowpack followed by a record-breaking drought and heat wave.

OPINION: Polson judge praises retired medical examiner

I am writing to register my profound respect and admiration for Dr. Gary Dale. To my good fortune, I have known him since 1994 as an outstanding professional. I have found him to be a tremendous asset to our state who will be difficult, if not impossible, to replace.

Huckleberries