Tuesday, March 31
Daybook
Highway construction to resume west of Whitefish
A second round of reconstruction work on U.S. 93 west of Whitefish begins April 13 from Karrow Avenue to Mountainside Drive.
Whitefish dog park ranked one of best in U.S.
Whitefish has gone to the dogs big-time.
Zinke holds town-hall meeting in Kalispell
Montana’s lone congressman, Republican Rep. Ryan Zinke, will be in Kalispell Thursday to hold a town-hall meeting at Flathead Valley Community College.
A troubling combination? Let's see the selfie
Births, published April 1, 2015
Cyber seminar
Dangers of online open networks
Peyton H. Bennett, 95
Officials pitch local projects in Washington, D.C.
A delegation of local officials worked in Washington, D.C., last week to put Kalispell in the minds of leaders at the federal level. Their goal was to lobby for priority consideration on various project grants.
Restaurant raises money for diabetes research
HuHot Mongolian Grill in Kalispell is raising money and awareness for diabetes research this week.
Egg pursuits planned for Easter weekend
A-tisket, a-tasket, bring your Easter basket and take your pick from a fun bunch of Easter egg hunts happening around the Flathead Valley this weekend.
Patricia Helen Swimley, 83
Youth-hunting bill advances to House
A state bill that would create a special youth hunting license for children between 10 and 18 who have not completed Hunter Education passed the Senate on a final vote Tuesday.
Local falcon dies from bird flu
A falcon from Columbia Falls was confirmed Monday to have died from Montana’s first documented case of a highly contagious strain of bird flu.
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Victoria Meccia, 8, flies through the air after getting a push on the tree swing from Kylie Carter in Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
VA Secretary-Montana
Veterans Affairs Secretary Robert McDonald, right, addresses a member of the audience’s question, Tuesday, March 31, 2015, during a town hall meeting in which the secretary and Sen. Jon Tester, left, D-Mont., led a panel discussion at the Montana National Guard headquarters in Helena, Mont., near the Fort Harrison VA hospital. (AP Photo/The Independent Record, Thom Bridge)
Whitefish dog park named one of best
Lucy, a standard sized Parti Poodle, left, runs with Marley, a Griffon, in the dog park on Tuesday, March 31, in Whitefish. The Hugh Rogers Wag Park was recently named one of the ten best in the nation. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Whitefish dog park
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Student Loan Strike
Sarah Dieffenbacher, poses for a picture in Washington, Monday, March 30, 2015. Former and current college students calling themselves the “Corinthian 100” say they are on a debt strike and refuse to pay back their student loans. The name comes from Corinthian Colleges Inc., which operated the for-profit Everest College, Heald College and WyoTech schools before agreeing last summer to sell or close its 100-plus campuses. Dieffenbacher, who works in collections for a property management company, said she was allowed at first to defer her loan payments, but now should be paying about $1,500 a month that she can’t afford. (AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta)
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Jim Aker, a lifetime Kalispell resident, still likes to drive a buggy with his horse Yoder. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Jim Aker, a lifetime Kalispell resident, still likes to drive a buggy with his horse Yoder. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Fun at Lake McDonald
Serenity Saugen throws water in the air as her brothers Micah, left, and, Kyler search for rocks to throw in Lake McDonald while spending time at their favorite beach in Glacier National Park on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Whitefish Therapy & Sport Center
Hart Jewelers
Kohlhase Montana Insurance
Monday, March 30
Legislature OKs liability limits for burning
HELENA — A bill passed the Legislature last week that would limit how much someone would have to pay for unintentionally burning up a neighbor’s property.
Senate narrowly OKs youth-hunting bill
Montana, a state where one in five residents hunts, would allow special hunting licenses for children as young as 10 under a bill that narrowly passed a preliminary Senate vote on Monday.
Kalispell native works to make Rollins safer
Gary Jystad has seen his share of carnage. As a long-time trauma doctor and volunteer firefighter, injuries are nothing new to him.
GOP driving state into a ditch
Peyton H. Bennett
Crews busy putting out fires
Water compact too important to be left in place forever
Park service launches new campaign
WASHINGTON — After nearly 100 years, the National Park Service holds some of the country’s most beautiful and historic places.
Glacier maintenance backlog: $178 million
Glacier National Park’s maintenance backlog currently sits at $178 million, according to a recent report.
Patricia Helen Swimley
Could we slow down in Rollins?
Glacier National Park
Serenity Saugen throws water in the air as her brothers Micah, left, and Kyler search for rocks to throw in Lake McDonald while spending time at their favorite beach in Glacier National Park on Monday. The National Park Service on Thursday is launching a 'Find Your Park' campaign.
Does fishing license come with side order of water rights?
Daybook
Blacktail ski season reaches early end
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area closed for the season on Saturday, one of several Montana resorts to succumb early to an unusually balmy spring.
Chain Saw Sales
Home Buyer's Guide Cover
Home Buyer's Guide
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Sunday, March 29
Climbing instructor knows the ropes
Rock solid
If you can climb a ladder, you can climb a 50-foot rock wall. So says Link Neimark.
Flathead's von Trapps embark on new journey
Reinventing a musical legacy
The von Trapp children who launched a worldwide music career from their family home near Somers are all grown up now, but still follow the sounds of music.
Link Neimark
Rock Climb Montana owner and instructor Link Neimark descends down a rock wall west of Kila after setting the lead line for a climb on March 25.
More than a hangover to worry about
The
Rail park project still seeks funding
Officials are ramping up efforts once again to construct an industrial park on the east side of Kalispell. The plan would include the removal of railroad tracks that run through the heart of the city.
Festival of Flavors gets big start at kickoff event
Entering its eighth season as Flathead Valley Community College’s primary scholarship fundraiser, the Festival of Flavors had a big start last weekend at its kickoff event.
Scott Thomas Sederstrom, 44
Scott Thomas Sederstrom, 44, died March 13 while climbing at Owens Gorge near Bishop, California.
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Glacier Park plowing begins on Wednesday
Glacier National Park’s Camas Road is open to biking, with plowing on other roads in the park starting Wednesday.
Saturday, March 28
Softball roundup: Wolfpack win 3 out of 4; young Bravettes go 0-4
GREAT FALLS — The Glacier Wolfpack and Flathead Bravettes both kicked off the 2015 softball season at the Great Falls Jamboree on Saturday with contrasting results.
Troy's Opland, Plains' Phillips triple winners at Eureka Time Trials
EUREKA — Nolan Hofstee had the best throws in the shot put (43-1/2) and discus (146-4) while Christian Langston (11.36) and Bryant Little (5:20.83) turned in the fastest times in the 100 and 1,600, respectively, to lead the Eureka boys track squad at the Eureka Time Trials on Saturday.
Big Sky loses shootout; moves on to quarterfinals of USA Hockey
LANSING, Mich. — The Big Sky Wildcats advanced to the quarterfinals at the USA Hockey 19-and-under Tier II girls national championships on Saturday, fighting to a 1-0 shootout loss, but gaining the necessary point to advance.
Clairmont, Corrigan win events for Polson at Gene Hughes Invitational Track
CORVALLIS — Jacob Clairmont and Mariah Corrigan were individual winners for Polson on Saturday at the Gene Hughes Invitational track meet.
AA tennis: Flathead, Glacier battle wind, Bison, Rustlers
GREAT FALLS — Battling treacherous winds between 40-60 miles per hour on the east side of the Great Divide, the Glacier and Flathead tennis squads started their Class AA seasons with a couple of matches against Great Falls High and Great Falls C.M. Russell on Saturday in the Electric City.
High court denies former KGEZ owner's appeal
The Montana Supreme Court ruled against former Kalispell radio firebrand and station owner John Stokes on Tuesday, effectively ending a malpractice suit against his former bankruptcy attorney.
Fortine veteran, 99, receives French Legion of Honour
Almost 70 years to the day after his last combat mission in World War II, J. Pat Hume was honored by the government of France for his contributions in liberating the country.
Spartan Sprint to be part of TV series
NBC Sports will videotape this year’s Spartan Sprint race near Bigfork and broadcast the footage as part of a five-part series on the race.
David L. Jam
Dads and new life
Water compact good for region
Don't be afraid to vote YES
Legislative report: Rolling coal & crowd funding
Ten reasons to ask for a NO vote on the water compact
Tribal water compact eerily similar to electrical deregulation
Friday night fight gets electric
Commissioners, don't play games with seniors
Compact not good for Montana
Man gets four years for three felonies
A year-end string of crimes earned a Kalispell man a four-year sentence with the Montana Department of Corrections.
Country is exploiting workers, the true job creators
Funding water project with resort tax makes sense
Descendants sought for Kalispell baseball pioneer
Organizers of a dedication ceremony planned this spring for Thompson Memorial Park are looking for descendants of the Kalispell park’s namesake, John “Gus” Thompson.
Putting voles in the crosshairs - with gum
Gardening season in the Flathead is still a couple of months away, but I already have anxiety about what I’m predicting to be a banner season for those pesky subterranean dwellers called voles.
William Robert Becker
Duke Dennison
Beckett Williamson
Henry Doda
Crystal Rene Floyd
Enzo Dale Bruckelmyer
Ezriel Welker-Peterson
Nevaeh Rae Fevold
Jonathan Jensen
Oliver Eldredge
Connor Reed Booth
David Allen Nedved, 68
Ray M. 'Eric' Creekmore, 77
Edward 'Ed' Bull, 85
David Nedved
Edward Bull
Gate blaster ordered to pay $27,000
A Kalispell man will serve probation for blowing up Marion couple’s gate with a rifle and an explosive.
Legion of Honour awarded
Friday, March 27
Bigfork boys place 4th in golf opener
MISSOULA — Bigfork finished fourth and Eureka 10th in the boys team standings on Friday at the Loyola Invitational golf tournament.
Four C-Falls players named all-state
Columbia Falls had four players named all-state in Class A basketball after successful campaigns this season that saw both the boys and girls teams finish third at state.
Student tops state math competition
Kalispell Middle School student Evan Kohler is in the prime of his mathematical fortitude.
Former NFL pro lands in Kalispell
After spending 11 seasons in the National Football League maintaining his own body and skill level, Grey Ruegamer is now helping Flathead residents improve their health at The Summit Medical Fitness Center.
Dennis Sitch, 70
Jerry W. Thew, 75
Jerry W. Thew, 75, died March 19, 2015.
Gurdon Ernest 'Whitey' White, 73
Gurdon Ernest "Whitey" White, 73, of Casper, Wyoming, passed away on Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015, at the Shepherd of the Valley Nursing Home in Casper.
Alvin J. Geske, 72
Barbara J. Bergmann Fredericks Sundberg, 84
Resident draws line with neighbor
Neighbors on Fourth Avenue South in Hungry Horse had a territory dispute that was made for a sitcom. One neighbor painted a blue line on the ground to indicate the property boundary and he claimed the other neighbor wasn’t honoring it. The
Researcher looks for origin of life
From Kalispell to Harvard and beyond, Sarah Rugheimer has taken her quest to probe the origins of life on the road.
Stuntman hopes bear-spray backpack will save lives
LIVINGSTON — It may sound contradictory, but the people taking the biggest risks are usually the most safety-conscious.
Backpack Bear Spray
Small earthquake strikes near Egan Slough southeast of Kalispell
Wanda Fay Blakeman, 80
Wanda Fay Blakeman, 80, passed away March 26, 2015, at her Hot Springs residence.
Auschwitz Survivor Forgives
Eva Kor chats with former white supremacist Thomas Adams before her talk at West High in Billings, Mont., Tuesday, March 24, 2015. (AP Photo/Billings Gazette, Bob Zellar)
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France Plane Crash
Family members of a victim kneel by a stele and flowers laid in memory of the victims are placed in the area where the Germanwings jetliner crashed in the French Alps, in Le Vernet, France, Friday, March 27, 2015. The crash of Germanwings Flight 9525 into an Alpine mountain, which killed all 150 people aboard, has raised questions about the mental state of the co-pilot. Authorities believe the 27-year-old German deliberately sought to destroy the Airbus A320 as it flew Tuesday from Barcelona to Duesseldorf. (AP Photo/Christophe Ena)
APTOPIX Building Collapse Manhattan
A pile of debris remains at the site of a building explosion in the East Village neighborhood of New York, Friday, March 27, 2015. Nineteen people were injured, four critically, after the powerful blast and fire sent flames soaring and debris flying Thursday afternoon. Preliminary evidence suggested that a gas explosion amid plumbing and gas work inside the building was to blame. (AP Photo/The New York Times, Nancy Borowick, Pool)
Reid Schumer
FILE - In this March 3, 2015 file photo, Sen. Charles Schumer, D-N.Y., left, accompanied by Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., speaks during a news conference on Capitol Hill in Washington. Reid is backing Schumer to succeed him as Democratic leader. Reid issued his endorsement Friday morning, shortly after announcing he would be retiring next year instead of running for re-election. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
Von Trapp Children
The Von Trapps
Dawn Chenoweth Gemmete, 46
“God quietly took” Dawn Chenoweth Gemmete of Kalispell on March 18, 2015. She was 46 years old.
Dog owner cited in mountain lion attack
A Glacier National Park employee has been cited in connection with an incident last week in which a young mountain lion was shot and killed after fighting with a dog.
Mathcounts winner
New owners plan to close Troy Mine
Hecla Mining Co. announced Friday it was acquiring Revett Mining Co. in a $20 million stock deal that anticipates closing one silver and copper mine in Northwest Montana and pursuing the development of another.
Track and Field: Jumping into the season
Flathead won 15 girls events and 13 boys events as it kicked its track and field season with a dual against Whitefish on Thursday at Legends Stadium.
Hockey: Wildcats win first game at nationals
LANSING, Mich. — Powered by three goals from Flathead Valley skaters, the Montana Big Sky Wildcats won their first game at the USA Hockey 19-and-under Tier II girls’ national championships, dispatching the Princeton (New Jersey) Tiger Lilies 5-3 on Thursday at the Summit Sports and Ice Complex.
Softball: C-Falls holds off Ronan in opener
COLUMBIA FALLS — Senior pitcher Ashley Trueblood gave up just two runs in five innings of work, but her bases-clearing double in the bottom of the fourth proved to be the winning runs as the Wildkats held off the Ronan Maidens for a 5-4 nonconference victory on Thursday.
Tennis: Bulldogs boys top Columbia Falls
COLUMBIA FALLS — The Whitefish boys easily took their first tennis dual of the year, sweeping Columbia Falls on Thursday.
Thursday, March 26
School choice or Orwellian choice?
GOP must explain vote against added funding for School for Deaf and Blind
Krueger's time of reckoning will come
Construction begins at fairgrounds
A second round of infrastructure improvements at the Flathead County fairgrounds begins today, and motorists using facilities on the south end will be routed through a detour on the grounds.
Committee OKs anti-water compact bill
A bill that would prohibit the state from implementing the water compact for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes narrowly passed a House committee Thursday night.
Man pleads no contest to attempted burglary, drug possession
A Kalispell man who police say tried to break into homes and escape custody in a drug-fueled rage has accepted a plea bargain.
Remembering Scott Sederstrom
Planning director to step down
Flathead County Planning Director B.J. Grieve is changing jobs, but he’s not going far.
Doesn't want to see return to old days before legal abortion
Oh, sheet! Thief makes off with bedclothes
The
Former Kalispell man dies in climbing accident
'He just had a driving spirit for being in the outdoors'
Strong in the mountains, full of positive energy and forever humble.
Kalispell is tourism-friendly town
Six points about water compact that are red flags
Patricia 'Pat' Moad, 68
Roberta 'Bobbi' Joan Luke, 77
Brock Whitehead, 51
Brock Whitehead “went to rest in the arms of our Heavenly Father” on March 15, 2015, surrounded by family and friends. In 2013, he was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer, glioblastoma. He fought a good fight. His words always were, “God is faithful” and “Ya gotta keep on … keeping on,” and that’s just what he did.
Reedy R. Hall, 80
Reedy R. Hall “passed into the arms of his heavenly Father” March 20, 2015, at home in Aztec, New Mexico, surrounded by his loving family.
Forests to benefit from state grants
About $1 million in state grants will be distributed to 13 national forest projects across Montana over the next few months as Montana’s first installment of funding authorized in the 2014 federal farm bill.
Flathead track
Flathead's Eli Frandsen crashes down in the pit during the long jump at a track dual with Whitefish at Legends Stadium on Thursday. Frandsen's longest jump was 19 feet. Flathead's Bobby Lowry won the event with a jump of 20 feet. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Scott Firefighter Stairclimb
Josiah Mooney takes part in the annual Scott Firefighter Stairclimb on Sunday, March 8, in Seattle. Eleven firefighters from the Kalispell and Whitefish Fire Departments took part in the event. They placed 5th out of 190 teams. They raised $6,604 dollars for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Firefighters included: Jon Campbell, Kirk Pederson, Trent Cook, Jacob Felts, Kyle Gully, Josiah Mooney, Soren Koetter, Don Thibert, and Taylor Zachary from Kalispell, as well as Sal Baccaro and Srah Peterson from Whitefish. Fundraising continues until the end of the month. Those wishing to donate to the cause should call the Kalispell Fire Department at 758-7765. (Photo courtesy of the Kalispell Fire Department)
Senate blasts Medicaid expansion bill to floor for debate
HELENA (AP) — Senators have voted to blast a Republican lawmaker’s Medicaid expansion bill out of committee and to the floor for debate.
Shoveling for Stillwater
Stillwater Christian preschooler Ava Stillo leans into her shovel during the groundbreaking ceremony for the $1.8-million expansion of the school on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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This Week in the Flathead Events Calendar | March 26 - April 1
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Fresh off the Vine marches toward new season
Keeping it fresh
Things are looking up for Jesse Ahmann, Karl Ross and Lucas Mace. The trio, who make up Fresh off the Vine, are heading into a summer season filled with fresh music, gigs and (hopefully) another album or EP release.
Wednesday, March 25
Hockey: Big Sky Wildcats take to national stage
For the third time in five years, the Big Sky Wildcats 19-and-under girls hockey team is headed to the USA Hockey Tier II National Championships. As the puck drops today in Lansing, Michigan, the Wildcats are looking to prove themselves amongst the best 12 teams in the country.
Terry column: Wildcats hitting their stride
The Big Sky Wildcats are used to obstacles.
Judge allows South Fork timber sales
A federal judge last month upheld a court ruling that allows two timber sales to go forward on the Flathead National Forest south of Hungry Horse Reservoir near Spotted Bear.
Man accused of assaulting child
A 31-year-old Kalispell man has been arrested on accusations that he sexually abused a 12-year-old child.
Court hears county growth policy lawsuit arguments
Whether or not Flathead County complied with mandatory procedures when it adopted an amended growth policy in 2012 was the focus of oral arguments Monday in Flathead District Court.
Blowdown piles up trees at Big Creek
The Flathead National Forest is advertising a special timber sale following a storm last year that blew down or uprooted trees containing 153 tons of timber at Big Creek Campground up the North Fork.
Esther Loomer, 100
Esther Loomer
Les 'Butlow' L. Grigg
Elsie Galles, 87
Les 'Butlow' L. Grigg, 79
Elsie Galles
Slope work made sense all along
Don't just talk calmly; hit something
'Pay to play' fee would help fund grooming
Grooming trails for snowmobiles isn’t cheap, and a proposal currently in the Legislature would require those who use state-groomed trails to help pick up more of the tab.
Shoveling for Stillwater School
Report: One pilot locked out of cockpit before crash
If confirmed, it would suggest terrorism link
Republican proposes 'religious freedom' referendum
HELENA — A Republican lawmaker proposed Wednesday that the Legislature ask voters if they want additional religious protections in Montana’s constitution.
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Stillwater Christian preschooler Ava Stillo leans into her shovel during the groundbreaking ceremony for the $1.8-million expansion of the school on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Chad Loveless plays guitar and sings on the front steps of his home in Kalispell on Wednesday. Loveless had just gotten of work and said that playing the guitar was his way to relax. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Stumptown Art Studio: coloring in the calendar
Gallery Director Aida Hubbard puts some finishing details on the Stumptown Art Studio window display on Wednesday, March 25, in Whitefish. The display features the calendar with classes offered in April and May along with examples created by the various instructors. Classes include: glass fusing with Malanie Drown, introduction to bead making and torch fired enameling with Traci Staves, and precious metal clay with Malinda Goldhirsch. There will also be special clay workshops with guest potters. For more information go to: www.stumptownartstudio.org. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Bowe Bergdahl charged with desertion, faces life in prison
Bowe Bergdahl
This undated file image provided by the U.S. Army shows Sgt. Bowe Bergdahl. A U.S. official says Bergdahl, who abandoned his post in Afghanistan and was held by the Taliban for five years, will be court martialed on charges of desertion and avoiding military service. (AP Photo/U.S. Army, file)
Grey Ruegamer
Tuesday, March 24
PBR: C-Falls' Triplett tears MCL
PUEBLO, Colo. — Columbia Falls bull rider Matt Triplett tore the medial collateral ligament in his left knee at a Professional Bull Riders event in Albuquerque this weekend, according to PBR media.
Glacier's Bennett to coach Badlands Bowl
Coaches and players from the Class AA state champion Glacier High School football team dominate the Montana roster for the annual Knights of Columbus Montana-North Dakota Badlands Bowl.
Luncheon highlights need for transportation money
On the doorstep of another construction season, transportation issues took center stage Tuesday at a Kalispell Chamber of Commerce luncheon.
Job search takes on new meaning
Cerilda Ellis, 102
Lulu Rogers, 93
Richard 'Dick' Francis Maurer
Brock Lyndon Whitehead, 51
Valerie Gean Paterson, 55
Lulu Rogers
Shirley Pauline Parker
Brock Lyndon Whitehead
Cerilda Ellis
Richard 'Dick' Francis Maurer, 74
Charlotte Blum, 79
Charlotte Blum
Shirley Pauline Parker, 79
West side residents oppose parking proposal
The Kalispell City Council heard a line of public comments Monday at a marathon work session focused largely on one issue: Who should be allowed to park in neighborhoods around Flathead High School?
House endorses bill to increase abortion regulations
HELENA — The House endorsed a bill Tuesday that would increase abortion regulations based on the disputed notion that a fetus can feel pain after the 20th week of pregnancy.
Transparency questioned in water compact letters
Flathead County’s handling of letters sent to state legislators and officials in opposition to the proposed tribal water compact has prompted Commissioner Gary Krueger to take issue with what he says is a lack of transparency in the public process.
Homeowners win slope lawsuit
County ordered to proceed with stabilization grant
A District Court judge has ordered the Flathead County commissioners to follow through with a federal grant it rejected in March 2014 for slope stabilization near the Village Greens subdivision and golf course.
UM student recovering from hantavirus infection
This Week in the Flathead: Fresh Off the Vine
Karl Ross and Fresh Off the Vine playing at the Acqua Pazza in Lakeside on July 3, 2014. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Fresh off the Vine
Fresh off the Vine play at The Raven in Woods Bay on March 20.
Superfund listing proposed for aluminum plant
The Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. has officially begun its journey toward possible designation as a Superfund cleanup site.
Monday, March 23
Flathead County No. 2 in state in inheritance levels
A recent study from the financial blog SmartAsset computed the counties in Montana with the largest inheritance amounts and placed Flathead County at the No. 2 spot.
Men reported living the high life
The
Holding the light
David and Amber Young in Lawrence Park on Dec. 31, 2014, in Kalispell. The couple was in town for the holiday season visiting family and celebrating the release of the new album, "Going to the Sun."
For the love of dance
Couple teaches dance lessons in the Flathead
For the love of dance
When speaking to Fred and Karen Sego, you realize just how far dance has permeated their lives.
Kalispell earns state tourism awards
Kalispell has earned two top state awards in the 2015 Montana Tourism Awards competition.
Album reflects journey from grief to healing
Holding the light
Board upholds $41.8 million value for island mansion
John C. Wright, 69
John C. Wright “was taken home to be with the Lord” on Thursday, March 19, 2015, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Judith 'Jude' Carpenter Stenger, 68
Esther Johnson, 94
Esther Johnson, 94, passed away peacefully at the Heritage Place Healthcare Community on Sunday, March 8, 2015.
Playing in Puddles
Some white geese strayed from the pond to play in the puddles on Monday afternoon, March 23, in Woodland Park in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Lion killed after attacking dog in Glacier Park
A Glacier National Park ranger shot and killed a mountain lion Saturday that attacked a dog in the employee housing area near park headquarters in West Glacier.
Festival of Flavors at Flathead Valley Community College
Festival of Flavors attendees make a toast at the Napa themed event on Saturday, March 21, at Flathead Valley Community College. Wines for the dinner included selections from Roderer Estate, Honig Vineyard & Winery in Rutherford, Chappellet Winery, Pahlmeyer Jayson and Silver Oak Winery. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
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Sunday, March 22
C. Falls Chamber of Commerce director to retire
A lot has changed since Carol Pike took the reins of the Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce 27 years ago as its part-time director.
Parking plan goes to City Council
A proposal to create parking restrictions around the Flathead High School area is now idling in front of the Kalispell City Council.
Wolverine
A wolverine in Glacier National Park.
Biologist presents findings on wolverines
The devil bear. The little wolf. The skunk bear.
Carol Pike
Executive Director of the Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Carol Pike in downtown Columbia Falls on March 13.
Toddler causes concern
A toddler was reportedly playing in the road near a coffee shop in Columbia Falls, prompting a call to the
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Saturday, March 21
Rodeo: C-Falls' Hill bucked on bad day for cowboys
A good bull, just a bad ride.
Legislators consider resort-tax raise
A proposal for an optional 1-percent increase on resort taxes went before a Senate tax committee Thursday, with the only opposition coming from legislators on the 12-member panel.
Rotary honors United Way leader
Throughout her childhood, Sherry Stevens’ father always told her, “Leave everything a little bit better than you found it.” Even in adolescence, Stevens took those words to heart.
SD5 accused of bullying neighbors
For water compact: Passing it is the fiscally responsible choice
Logging needed for forest restoration
Don't let the 'educationists' get their hands on kids even earlier
Science should teach only what it knows
Bear-ly contained in the basement
Tackling the liberal agenda and selective memory
Legislature keeps us guessing on major issues
Against water compact: The bill is a win/win for one side
Opposition focuses on funding source
The proposed 1 percent resort tax increase for Whitefish doesn’t have the blessing of everyone in the resort town.
Resort tax request aims to preserve critical Haskill Basin
Whitefish voters face a major decision next month about how to pay for the long-term protection of the city’s water supply.
Pair of alternate funding sources considered
There are few people who dispute the idea of a conservation easement to protect the city’s water resources in Haskill Basin.
Sophia Ann Scull
Sophia Ann Scull, daughter of Sam Scull and Jennifer Jackson, was born Dec. 6 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Zachary Ryan Cunningham
Zachary Ryan Cunningham, daughter of Joe and Caitlin Cunningham of Bigfork, was born Dec. 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Cali Jones
Cali Jones, daughter of Dusty and Kelsey Jones of Somers, was born Dec. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Caleb Rufenach
Caleb Rufenach, son of Chris and Krista Rufenach, was born Dec. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Ezekiel Jacob Chamberlain
Ezekiel Jacob Chamberlain, son of Christopher Chamberlain and Chanaea Guzman of Kalispell, was born Dec. 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Indie Jane Winchel
Indie Jane Winchel, daughter of Matthew Winchel and Amanda Johnson of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Allison Bonnie Wright
Allison Bonnie Wright, daughter of Jared and Cameo Wright of Kalispell, was born Dec. 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Emma Rose Fennelly
Emma Rose Fennelly, daughter of Zach and April Fennelly of Kalispell, was born Dec. at North Valley Hospital.
Ethan Ryan Pierce
Ethan Ryan Pierce, son of Jacob and Candace Pierce of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Jorina Ann Haynes
Jorina Ann Haynes, daughter of Joshua and Charina Haynes of Whitefish, was born Dec. 7 at North Valley Hospital.
Titan Bruce McMahon
Titan Bruce McMahon, son of Ladd and Kayla McMahon of Dayton, was born Dec. 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Aiden Bryan Junkin
Aiden Bryan Junkin, son of Chelsey Junkin of Kalispell, was born Dec. 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Aviahlyn Marie Rick
Aviahlyn Marie Rick, daughter of Chelbie Stokes of Kalispell, was born Dec. 11 at North Valley Hospital.
Kitai Nevins
Kitai Nevins, son of Raymond and Vanessa Nevins, was born Dec. 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Casey Ann Wehunt
Casey Ann Wehunt, daughter of Tad and Sadie Wehunt of Columbia Falls, was born Dec. 14 at North Valley Hospital.
Gunner James Fleming
Gunner James Fleming, son of Michael and Stephanie Fleming of Kalispell, was born Dec. 15 at North Valley Hospital.
Avery Maxine Nelson
Avery Maxine Nelson, son of Adam and Cheryl Nelson of Bigfork, was born Dec. 13 at North Valley Hospital.
Dorothy Susan Fetveit, 93
Dorothy Susan Fetveit, 93, left us on March 17, 2015, “to embrace a promise of eternal life in the company of the risen Christ Jesus.”
Popp, Dye, Toren lead KATS at state swimming
The Kalispell Aquatic Team (KATS) had three swimmers earn first-place finishes at the Montana Swimming Short Course State Championships in Butte earlier this month.
Bulls in charge in first go
Nine up, nine down.
Friday, March 20
Governor: Budget cuts will hurt child services
Gov. Steve Bullock visited the Child and Family Services Office in Kalispell on Friday to discuss protective services appropriations in the still-evolving state budget.
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Washington cowboy Seth Shelton holds on for an 80-point ride during the bareback competition of the Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo at the Majestic Valley Arena. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Kirk Robinson jumps off his horse during the tie down roping at the Rocky Mountain Classic PRCA Rodeo at the Majestic Valley Arena on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Tessa Smith of Saint Elizabeth takes a shot during the against Saint Joan of Arc during the semifinal game of the fifth annual Holy Hoops Tournament at Saint Matthews Catholic School on Friday. During the competition teams consist of fifth, sixth and seventh graders play against each other. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Saint Joan of Arc coaches Jordan Sheldon, left, and Bailey Rigg cheer as a shot goes up during the semifinals of the fifth annual Holy Hoops tournament at Saint Matthews Catholic School on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Haskill Basin
Sherry Stevens
Sherry Stevens, right, laughs as colleague Bill Hendricks speaks on her behalf during an award presentation Thursday. The Kalispell Rotary Club presented Stevens with a rare Rotary Community Service Award on Thursday to acknowledge her service work as longtime United Way director. (Brianna Loper/The Daily Inter Lake)
Look out below: Rocks are coming down
There were reports of three children throwing rocks down onto a trail at Lone Pine State Park. A caller told the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office that one of the rocks came mighty close to her.
Tester touts support for Superfund listing
Meeting with local business leaders in Columbia Falls Friday morning, Sen. Jon Tester, D-Mont., said a Superfund designation for the town’s shuttered aluminum plant is an important step toward improving economic development in both Columbia Falls and the Flathead Valley.
Claire 'Bud' Wendt, 87
Iven 'Butch' Cranmer, 73
“Heaven has received another angel.” Butch passed away on March 18, 2015.
Elvira Sollid, 101
Elvira Sollid was born in Flaxton, North Dakota, on Jan. 25, 1914, and passed away peacefully in Woodburn, Oregon, on Feb. 22, 2015. She had just celebrated her 101st birthday only three weeks earlier before she left us.
Governor Bullock visits Kalispell
Jon Tester discusses the future of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Plant
Senator Jon Tester met with city officials and community members on Friday, March 20, at Freedom Bank in Columbia Falls to discuss the possible future of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Plant. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Tester CFAC future
Flathead's Hodge to be inducted into national coaches hall of fame
Longtime Flathead High School boys’ track and field coach Dan Hodge has will be inducted into the National High School Athletic Coaches Association (NHSACA) Hall of Fame on June 19 in Minneapolis.
Thursday, March 19
Gregory 'Sam' Wurster, 53
Just the sandwich, hold the soda
Workers at a U.S. 2 East business reported that a hungry motorist came through the drive-through and appeared to be drunk. He reportedly had a bottle of vodka riding shotgun, the caller told the
Whitefish celebrates new high school
In 2009, the Whitefish School Board set a goal to be in a new high school within four years. The goal followed on the heels of two failed bond requests to renovate the high school in 2003 and 2008.
Whitefish Superintendent Orozco to resign
Whitefish School District Superintendent Kate Orozco is resigning after four years.
Former governor Huckabee talks faith, future at event
Under the spotlight in the Trade Center building at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee encouraged folks to be "the salt of the earth” — in the sense of preserving the world from decay.
Car crashes into house
A Honda Accord struck a house on Alpine Lane early Thursday morning.
Stolen car crashes into Evergreen house
Residents of an Alpine Lane home awoke early Thursday morning to a loud crash. They found that a car had smashed into the side of their house, hitting utility lines and starting a small fire.
A light-hearted look at dark times
Plum Creek committed to valley
Mike Huckabee speaks at the Stillwater Christian School fundraiser
Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee listens as he is introduced at Stillwater Christian School’s annual For Such a Time As This dinner on Thursday, March 19, at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Mike Huckabee
Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee plays bass guitar with students in the jazz band at Stillwater Christian School’s annual fundraising event on Thursday at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.
Drivers urged to lock their vehicles
After four vehicles were stolen on Monday, law enforcement is calling on residents to lock up.
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Columbia Falls' Jayce Fagerland takes a shot as teammate Ty Morgan racks the balls during the 3-point shooting contest of the Les Schwab shootout at Glacier High School on Thursday. Fagerland scored 30 points to help the Columbia Falls win the shootout beating Glacier by a point. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Bigfork's Josh Sandry throws down a dunk during the championship round of the dunk contest of the Les Schwab Shootout at Glacier on Thursday. The Viking senior won the contest. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake )
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Whitefish Superintendent Kate Orozco embraces Joan Vetter Ehrenberg as Montana Governor Steve Bullock looks on at the Whitefish High School Dedication on Thursday. Vetter Ehrenberg co-chaired the committee for the Vote Yes! Whitefish High School Bond. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Montana Governor Steve Bullock laughs with Whitefish student Johnny Perez before the Whitefish High School Dedication. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Whitefish High School Dedication
Montana Governor Steve Bullock speaks during the Whitefish High School dedication on Thursday.
Man pleads not guilty to violent threats against schools
A Kalispell man pleaded not guilty Thursday to charges that he threatened violence against Jews and attacks a local school.
Lenio arraignment
David Joseph Lenio appears in Flathead District Court for his arraignment in March. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
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Museum at Central School Executive Director Gil Jordan portrays Sidney Edgerton for a group of Edgerton first graders at the museum on Thursday. After the student's learned a brief history of Edgerton's life, they toured the museum. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
2015 Rocky MTN PRCA Cover
2015 Rocky MTN PRCA
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This Week in the Flathead Events Calendar | March 19-25
Steve Tyrell
Steve Tyrell's 11th album, "That Lovin' Feeling," was released earlier this year. Tyrell will make a tour stop in Whitefish on Saturday, March 28, at 7:30 p.m. at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.
Steve Tyrell makes tour stop in Whitefish
Sharing ‘That Lovin’ Feeling’
Steve Tyrell knows a good song when he hears it, and how to bring out its charm. He should since he’s had a very successful career producing hits for other people. Tyrell scored a hit with Dionne Warwick’s version of the movie title track “Alfie.” He co-produced “Somewhere Out There” for the movie “An American Tail” sung by Linda Ronstadt and James Ingram. And he co-produced “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head” for the movie “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” which went on to win the 1969 Oscar for best original song.
Breaking down the bracket
I decided to switch things up this year when I filled out my bracket for the NCAA tournament.
Wednesday, March 18
Friends rally to help Mother of the Year
A Whitefish mother of three whose advocacy work and community service recently earned her the Montana Mother of the Year award now needs a little support of her own.
Revised forest plan gets first public airing
A good compromise, it’s been said, leaves everyone equally unhappy.
Not exactly the evening he expected
Courtney (Calvert) Ebaugh, 92
Courtney (Calvert) Ebaugh
Alice Marie Hankinson, 87
Births, published March 19, 2015
Alice Marie Hankinson
Power restored to Melita Island
Five months after a cable providing the only source of power to Camp Melita Island failed, the lights are back on for the Montana Council of Boy Scouts’ recreational paradise.
Stillwater launches $1.8 million expansion
Stillwater Christian School is preparing to break ground on a $1.8 million expansion possibly as soon as next week.
Seniors with shovels begin building project
Despite chilly, drizzly weather, dozens of senior citizens turned out Wednesday morning to break ground at the site of their new senior center and Agency on Aging facility.
Farm-town melee includes chain saw
Stillwater Christian expansion
South Campus Ground Breaking Ceremony
People gather for the South Campus Ground Breaking Ceremony on Wednesday, March 18, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
South Campus
Agency on Aging Advisory Council Chairwoman Lois Katz speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday for the new South Campus Building in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
South Campus groundbreaking ceremony
Dick Reedquist, vice president of the Kalispell Senior Center, and Blake Charles, 4, of Kalispell, lead a group of seniors with shovels across 11th Street to the site of the new South Campus Building and a groundbreaking ceremony on Wednesday. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
St. Patty's dogs
A pair of dogs stand on their hind legs to get a better view of the St. Patrick's Day Parade in Kalispell on Tuesday, March 17, 2014. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
St. Patrick's Day Parade
Images from the St. Patrick's Day Parade in downtown Kalispell on Tuesday, March 17, 2015. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Michael Manning tosses candy to the crowd during the St. Patrick's Day parade in downtown Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Nicholas Walsh grabs a handful of candy from his grandma Janet Walsh of the Rose Mountain Floral during the St. Patrick's Day parade in Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Fish work in Glacier lake shows results
Glacier National Park’s Quartz Lake could be a model for combating invasive lake trout.
Tuesday, March 17
Basketball: Glacier's Hashley, Bennett named to all-state teams
Glacier’s Jaxen Hashley and Hailee Bennett were named to the Class AA all-state basketball teams on Tuesday.
Republican unveils new bill to expand Medicaid
HELENA — With the governor’s Medicaid expansion proposal defeated, a Great Falls lawmaker unveiled another health coverage plan Tuesday that seeks to reduce the number of people in poverty and, over time, reduce the number of people who qualify for Medicaid.
Fall trial planned in toddler murder case
A tentative trial date has been set for the Evergreen man accused of killing his girlfriend’s 2-year-old son.
$4 million project begins at county's old jail
The cost of renovating and expanding Flathead County’s historic old jail building has climbed to nearly $4 million as construction begins in tandem with ongoing environmental cleanup.
Bryon Wayne Logue
Nona Delores Paul Nichols
Nona Delores Paul Nichols, 84
Ernest 'Hugh' Merrell, 77
Was his pot o' gold missing? Just wondering
Bryon Wayne Logue, 24
JoAn Camille Marquardt, 67
Cities support 911 center funding proposal
Three Flathead Valley city councils voted on Monday to support Flathead County’s effort to fund the 911 dispatch center.
Area river levels decline
Area rivers are still flowing high but levels have dropped slightly since Monday.
Old jail renovation
Stillwater Expansion
Portrait of the head of the Stillwater Christian School, Dan Makowski, in the library on Tuesday, March 17, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Rainy Day Tour
From left, Quinn Berkram and Kaitlyn Freeman share in Vicki Robins first grade class share an umbrella as they walk to the downtown Kalispell Fire Station on Tuesday, March 17. Students from Edgerton Elementary were split into two groups touring both the fire department and the Museum at Central School. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
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Monday, March 16
Class B basketball: Sandry, Berg, Bohne named all-state
Bigfork’s Josh Sandry and Lana Berg along with Eureka’s Trey Bohne have received all-state honors for boys and girls basketball in Class B.
Work harder at peace
Climate change column & cartoon were misleading
Meeting series starts Tuesday on forest plan
A series of public meetings begins Tuesday on proposed revisions to the Flathead National Forest Plan.
Covering 'the last great race' takes stamina
Transformation of United States is part of Marxist agenda
Landlord finds lizards left behind
Landlord-tenant relations hit a boiling point when a person moved out of an Old Highway 2 East residence and left behind some lizards. The landlord called the
GOP surrender on illegal amnesty could end party
Murdoch's confirms plan to build store near Columbia Falls
Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Supply will break ground in April on a 46,000-square-foot store at the intersection of U.S. 2 and Montana 40 near Columbia Falls.
Births, published March 17, 2015
Ralph H. Wisher Jr., 70
Ralph H. Wisher Jr. peacefully passed away in the arms of his wife Karen, on March 12, 2015, after a long battle with an illness.
Tricky weather forces ski areas to scramble
The precipitation onslaught over the weekend didn’t help Flathead Valley ski areas, although the rain finally turned to snow on Monday.
Montana Life: Building Wooden Toys
Wood shop teacher Joe Welch prepares to help cut wings for the planes being built by seventh grader Michael Antonich on Thursday, March 12, in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Wet Weather Conditions
Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park was closed on Monday at the foot of Lake McDonald because of water on the roadway. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
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Rivers rise as rain pours down
Flathead River rises 6 feet in 36 hours
Rivers rose swiftly and water covered some roadways as heavy rain — 4 to 5 inches in some places — inundated Northwest Montana over the weekend.
Sunday, March 15
Whitefish to consider downtown plan update
A proposed update of the Whitefish Downtown Business District Master Plan will be discussed in a Whitefish City Council work session tonight before a public hearing and vote on the amended plan is taken later in the evening.
Ranger reflects on Spotted Bear District
From the remote Spotted Bear Ranger Station, District Ranger Deb Mucklow spends each summer overseeing more than one million acres within the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex.
Drainage project, bypass agreement on tap for Kalispell City Council
The city of Kalispell rejected bids last year on a drainage project in the South Meadows neighborhood. The wait ended up saving $168,000.
Relationship, and Mercedes, go over a cliff
The call came in to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office at 5 p.m. on Feb. 26.
Accident victim on path to recovery
Climbing to new heights
When Emily Berner reached the top of the rock wall at The Summit Medical Fitness Center in Kalispell last month, it meant quite a bit more than just conquering the wall.
Classes help kindergarteners learn through dance
Education in motion
Education was in motion Thursday at Muldown Elementary School in Whitefish as kindergarteners expressed letters, numbers, colors, patterns, rhythm, mirroring and sequences through dance.
Kids riding bikes prompt call to cops
A 12th Street West resident reportedly saw several kids riding bikes and a scooter come too close to his mailbox. The man went outside and threatened to “beat them all senseless,” prompting a call to the
Homes March 2015 Cover
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Read to me, Daddy: New program encourages dads, father figures to read to their children
By 9 a.m. Feb. 28, a large room at the Northwest Montana Head Start in Kalispell was bustling with energetic children and their dads. Chairs were set up in pairs, tumbling mats and fleece blankets were laid out on the floor and brand new books were ready to be handed out.
Hockey playoffs: Junior Steelheads eliminate Wolverines
McCALL, Idaho — Skating stride for stride with one of the best junior hockey clubs in North America, the Whitefish Wolverines ran out of gas in a 6-2 loss to the Idaho Junior Steelheads on Saturday night and were eliminated from the Western States Hockey League playoffs.
Class B state basketball: Bigfork's season ends with loss to Rocky Boy
GREAT FALLS — The boys basketball season for Bigfork (22-4) ended Saturday morning with an 83-75 loss to Rocky Boy in loser-out action at the Class B state tournament at Four Seasons Arena.
Saturday, March 14
State A boys basketball: Columbia Falls beats Rams; finishes third
BOZEMAN — Ty Morgan scored 14 points to help Columbia Falls slide by Billings Central 34-30 in the consolation final at the Class A boys state basketball tournament Saturday evening at Brick Breeden Field House on the campus of Montana State University.
AA state basketball: Glacier girls go out in style
BUTTE — Glacier capped off its best season ever by pulling off two huge victories on the final day of the Class AA girls state basketball tournament on Saturday at the Butte Civic Center.
Medicaid expansion plan makes sense for health, economy
Pray for clinic vandal
Pre-K program important to families, children
Is the Flathead water compact even legal?
GOP senators' letter to Iran is 'dangerous'
Daines ignores Israel's violations of international law
Plum Creek invests heavily in plant upgrades
Plum Creek Timber Co. plans to invest $10 million in plant improvements this year at its Northwest Montana manufacturing facilities.
Ex-senator: Water compact breaches state sovereignty
Celebrating Montana's elder statesmen
Five proms planned in one night
The big night is almost here for hundreds of prom-goers in the Flathead Valley to dance the night away in glitzy dresses and sharp tuxes.
Emily Berner
Emily Berner, assisted by Jandy Cox, climbs the wall at The Summit on Saturday. Berner has reached the top of the 32-foot wall three times.
Thanks for helping displaced residents
Educators back Early Edge plan
Friend calls police about trust issues
Kizer-Tornquist
Rory and Joann Kizer of Columbia Falls announce the engagement of their daughter, Lindsay Kizer, to Kyle Tornquist, son of Joy Tornquist and Emanuel Tornquist, both of Huntsville, Alabama.
Atticus Baker
William Scott
Kayden Erickson
Nona Delores Paul Nichols, 84
David G. Townsend, 86
Jacqueline Dolph Macy, 87
Beverly June (Gronley) Schenck, 74
Torkel 'Tork' Leon Torkelson, 87
Joyce C. Eckelberry Kloock, 86
David Townsend
Nona Delores Paul Nichols
Beverly June Schenck
School tries breakfast in classroom
An in-classroom breakfast option is being piloted at Hedges Elementary School in Kalispell.
Torkel Leon Torkelson
Joyce C. Eckelberry Kloock
Joyce C. Eckelberry Kloock
Witt-Snow
Sondra and Kevin Witt of Bigfork announce the engagement of their daughter, Olivia Witt, to Aaron Snow, son of Jacob and Cheryl Snow of Henderson, Nev.
Kimmel-Cooper
Larry and Peggy Small of Kalispell and Wayne and Cheryl Kimmel of Denver, together with Bill and Lesley Cooper of Belgrade, announce the engagement of their children, Amanda Kimmel and Matt Cooper.
Former Griz coach sets up strength shop
A strength and conditioning facility is set to open in Kalispell to help athletes across the valley reach their full potential.
Senators take a stand for the Constitution
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Bonnie Billuni, right, gets help hanging her quilt on the wall from Doris Field during the quilt retreat on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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The Kootenai Valley Quilt Guild will are selling raffle tickets for the quilt they made. The drawing will take place at this year's Nordic Fest. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Michele Hjulstad irons while wearing her St. Patrick's garb. "When you're from Butte you start celebrating St. Patrick's a week early," she said.
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Jackie Johnson keeps her sewing machine feet and bobbin thread neatly organized at her work station. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Doris Field uses her Singer featherweight sewing machine. Field said her sewing machine is from the late '40s or early '50s. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Claire Menkhaus of Kalispell laughs as she jokes with other quilters during the Glacier Quilts Spring Retreat at the Hilton Garden Inn of Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Michele Hjulstad, left, demonstrates her new ruler to her roommate Diane Dolven in Kalispell on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Jackie Johnson of Libby pins a block during the Glacier Quilts Spring Retreat on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Nora Lafrance irons a piece of her quilt during the retreat on Friday. Lafrance of the Kootenai Valley Quilt Guild said there is more ironing than sewing in quilting. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Emily Berner climbs the wall as Jandy Cox helps support her and Mik Sherman belays her at The Summit on Saturday. The three have been climbing the wall almost every Monday since November. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Emily Berner chalks up as she and Jandy Cox scale the climbing wall at The Summit on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Emily Berner scales the climbing wall at The Summit on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Woman shoots husband, then herself
One person dead after shooting in Kalispell
Members of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office investigate the scene of a shooting at 425 Valley View Drive on Friday evening, March 13, in Kalispell. One person has died as a result and the other has been treated and released. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Shooting investigation
Members of the Flathead County Sheriff's Office investigate the scene of a shooting Friday night at 425 Valley View Drive near Kalispell. One person died and one was wounded. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Friday, March 13
Class B girls state basketball: Valkyries fall in OT to Manhattan
GREAT FALLS — Manhattan outscored Bigfork 9-5 in overtime to claim the 54-50 loser-out victory at the Class B girls state basketball tournament on Friday afternoon.
State B boys basketball: Choteau defeats Vikings
GREAT FALLS — The Bigfork boys won’t repeat as state champions, falling 62-53 to a hot-shooting Choteau team in the second half of their semifinal game on Friday in the Class B state basketball tournament at Four Seasons Arena.
Steelheads blank Wolverines
McCALL, Idaho — Winners of the last three Thorne Cup championships, the Idaho Junior Steelheads look to be in great shape for another title, shutting out the Whitefish Wolverines 9-0 in Game 1 of the second round of the Western State Hockey League playoffs on Friday.
State A boys basketball: C-Falls advances; Polson out
BOZEMAN — Columbia Falls stayed in the hunt for a trophy, edging Belgrade 66-64 on Friday afternoon in loser-out play at the Class A state boys basketball tournament at Brick Breeden Field House on the campus of Montana State University.
AA state basketball: Glacier girls bounce back
BUTTE — Glacier bounced back to defeat Great Falls C.M. Russell 51-42 on Friday afternoon in loser-out play at the Class AA state girls basketball tournament.
Committee derails plan for Calgary trade center
A proposed Montana trade center in Calgary has been tabled by a House business committee, but the bill’s sponsor said she hasn’t given up trying to pass the measure this session.
Truck caught playing in a work zone
While “joyriding” in a Heavens Peak Drive construction site, a driver and occupants got a truck stuck in the mud. That gave the
Drive-in movie screen toppled
The Midway Drive-in outdoor movie theater, a landmark at the intersection of U.S. 2 and Montana 40 since 1952, is gone for good.
motocross
Chris Howell leads the racers across the finish line of the first lap of the pro unlimited race for the Arena Cross 2015 at the Majestic Valley Arena. Howell's motorcycle brokedown during the race and Ryan Breece won. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Montana Sport-Strength
Soggy weather ahead for the weekend
It’s going to be a wet weekend in Northwest Montana.
Plum Creek star cooler
Two Stillwater students hail from China
Foreign exchange at Stillwater Christian School has reached the fourth grade level with 9-year-old Hao “Lily” Quan.
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A woman who lives where two people were apparently shot talks on the phone as police investigate the scene southwest of Kalispell on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Shooting scene
Residents of the house were a double shooting took place talk as police investigate the scene southwest of Kalispell on Friday evening. A Missoula woman shot and injured her estranged husband from Kalispell, then shot and killed herself. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Two wounded by gunfire near Kalispell
Gunshots at a Valley View Drive home near Kalispell Friday evening injured two people, one of them critically.
Stillwater exchange students
Jiayun Hao and Lily Quan. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Midway Drive-In
The ticket stand of the Midway Drive-in was all that remained standing on Thursday as crews worked on removing debris. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Minorities should solve problems rather than complain about them...
Baby Chicks at North Valley AG
A customer picks out two baby ducks at North Valley AG near Columbia Falls on Friday, March 13. The ducklings and pullets will be available until the end of May. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Just use purchase price for appraisals
At least four reasons to fight water compact
Profile: Carol Pike
Executive Director of the Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce in downtown Columbia Falls on Friday, March 13. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Creative Movement and Literacy Program at Muldown
Vance Schwaiger acts as a "mirror" for his dance partner, mimicking her moves back to her, as the six kindergarten classes at Muldown Elementary perform on March 12, in Whitefish. The students were taking part in the Creative Movement and Literacy Program with Leslie Yancey which had them create dances in connection with letters, colors or numbers.
Hockey playoffs: Wolverines draw tough assignment with Steelheads
A week after their first-ever franchise playoff series victory, the Whitefish Wolverines have another hurdle to overcome — a second-round matchup with the three-time defending Thorne Cup champion Idaho Junior Steelheads.
Class B state basketball: Colstrip girls slide past Bigfork, 55-50
GREAT FALLS — Colstrip did just enough to slip by Bigfork 55-50 on Thursday evening at the Class B girls state basketball tournament at Four Seasons Arena.
Class B state basketball: Bigfork boys hold on, nip Columbus, 53-50
GREAT FALLS — Defending state champion Bigfork pulled out a tough 53-50 first-round victory over a determined Columbus squad at the Class B state boys basketball tournament on Thursday at Four Seasons Arena.
Class AA state basketball: Billings West girls spill Glacier
BUTTE — Leading by seven in the fourth quarter, Glacier went cold from the floor for more than four minutes to end the game, falling to Billings West 53-47 in the first round at the Class AA girls state basketball tournament on Thursday at the Butte Civic Center.
Thursday, March 12
Class A boys state basketball: C-Falls, Polson come up short
BOZEMAN — It was a rough day for Northwestern A’s two entrants at the Class A state boys basketball tournament.
Burglary suspect rejects plea deal, will go to trial
A Kalispell man accused of breaking into six businesses has chosen to forgo a plea agreement and move on to trial.
Reappraisal switch advances in Senate
A legislative proposal to simplify state property taxes and mitigate changes in values will likely head to the Senate floor sometime next week.
TV show re-creates 2005 mauling in Glacier
A bear mauling in Glacier National Park that grabbed nationwide attention 10 years ago is coming back to life on a new reality-based television show that will be broadcast this weekend.
Births, published March 13, 2015
Support seniors: Build the patio
Evelyn Evie Stevenson
Evelyn 'Evie' Stevenson, 75
Resident reports suspicious activity related to break-in
Chopper spots missing hiker in the dark
Searchers early Thursday rescued a 16-year-old girl who went missing for eight hours after a hike near Whitefish.
Woman sentenced in Somers Mansion fraud case
The Montana beauty queen and former owner of the Somers Mansion was sentenced Thursday in federal court on charges of mail fraud and conspiracy.
Glacier Park rescue
A night of Flamenco at Crush Lounge
Savannah Fuentes wraps up the Montana leg of her La Primavera: Flamenco En Vivo tour at the Crush Lounge on Wednesday, March 11, in Whitefish. In the background are vocalist Jesus Montoya and guitarist Gerardo Alcala. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
This Week in the Flathead Events Calendar | March 12-18
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Downtown Kalispell rolls out the green carpet
Celebrating St. Patrick
Brannigan’s Irish Pub in Kalispell will be celebrating St. Patrick’s Day in true Irish fashion — with beer, live music and a party for the ages.
St. Patrick's Day Party
JoDee Anderson on the tenor drum and other members of Montana Highlanders perform at the Brannigan's tent on March 17, 2014, as part of the St. Patrick's Day celebration. The Highlanders will return for the party this year.
Long road to repeat
It’s hard enough to win one state championship.
Wolfpack ready to wrestle West in first round
The Glacier girls, now on their fourth consecutive trip to the Class AA state tournament, is still seeking their first run of sustained success in the postseason.
Wildcats' title defense begins in Bozeman
Last season’s run to a state championship is over, but for Columbia Falls, a repeat may have to look similar.
Vikings, Valkyries set to shock the Electric City
There is sure to be plenty of red, white and blue throughout Four Season Arena as both the Bigfork Vikings and Valkyries begin their run for a state championship today at the Class B combined state basketball tournament in Great Falls.
Wednesday, March 11
Harmony Ann Burrows
Harmony Ann Burrows, daughter of Alex Burrows and Chandra Peterson of Kalispell, was born Oct. 9 at North Valley Hospital.
Camber Joel Stanley
Camber Joel Stanley, son of Alex Stanley and Julia Reichart of Kalispell, was born Oct. 8 at North Valley Hospital.
Siena Grace Orr
Siena Grace Orr, daughter of Andrew Orr and Ashlee Galassi of Kalispell, was born Oct. 6 at North Valley Hospital.
Royce Benton
Royce Benton, son of Andrew and Amanda Benton of Coram, was born Oct. 7 at North Valley Hospital.
Clyde Michael Houser
Clyde Michael Houser, son of Stephen and Heidi Houser of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 5 at North Valley Hospital.
Daybook
Old School? What would Bob say?
Kizer-Tornquist
Boulders block tracks: Line near West Glacier reopened after four hours
No trains were damaged or derailed when several large boulders fell onto the BNSF Railway tracks about two miles east of West Glacier at 4:45 p.m. Tuesday.
Witt-Snow
Kimmel-Cooper
Students in drug case readmitted to school
RONAN (AP) — The Ronan School Board has rejected the recommendations of Ronan Superintendent Andy Holmlund and will readmit five students who were suspended following their arrests on drug distribution charges in February.
Helicopter crash claims 11 lives
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AP) — Searchers struggled Wednesday to find the seven Marines and four soldiers killed when a helicopter crashed, hampered by the same fog that plagued a nighttime training mission.
U.S. worries about Iran-backed militias
WASHINGTON (AP) — Iran is playing a helpful role against Islamic State militants in Iraq now, but once the extremists are vanquished, Tehran-backed militias could undermine efforts to unify the country, the top U.S. military officer said Wednesday.
Logger aims to get damages for canceled contract
Eureka-based EM Logging is looking to recover $2.5 million in damages after winning an appeal of a terminated logging contract on Kootenai National Forest.
Schools set calendar for next year
The 2015-16 school calendar for Kalispell Public Schools was approved by school trustees Tuesday.
Search begins for school leader
Following the resignation of Kalispell Public Schools Assistant Superintendent Dan Zorn, the district has outlined a tentative timeline to fill the position.
Woman's generosity benefits Bigfork Fire
Greg Burns talks about his mother. Miriam, to family, friends and members of the Bigfork Fire Department and Quick Response Unit on Saturday.
House fails to override veto of Regier tax bill
HELENA — House Republicans on Tuesday failed to muster the two-thirds majority needed to override Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock’s veto of a major income tax reduction passed by the Legislature.
Budget panel rejects preschool proposal
HELENA — A GOP-led budget panel on Tuesday evening rejected Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock’s $37 million proposal for public preschool programs in Montana.
House supports license fee hike
A proposed increase in Montana hunting and fishing license fees is likely bound for the Senate after receiving strong support in a preliminary House vote Wednesday.
Board gives nod to two Kalispell projects
Signs. How many do you get?
Boulders block tracks
BNSF Railway workers clear boulders off the tracks near West Glacier on Tuesday. A westbound train had just passed through before the boulders fell on the tracks. (Chris Peterson/Hungry Horse News)
Telluride films to be shown in Whitefish
The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation is bringing the Telluride Mountainfilm Festival to Whitefish for one night on March 19.
Spring fishing is just around the corner
I don’t mind March coming in like a lamb … even if it goes out like a lion.
Snow woes close Turner Mountain
The board of Kootenai Winter Sports Inc. decided Monday to pull the plug on the ski season and close Turner Mountain until next year. The ski area near Libby has not been open to skiers since Jan. 31 due to weather conditions.
Bryon Wayne Logue, 24
Bryon Wayne Logue, 24, of Fortine, died Saturday, Feb. 28, 2015, in Grand Junction, Colorado.
Sallie Schmauch Abentroth, 68
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The driver and the passenger view their overturned truck after an accident on U.S. 2 and Rose Crossing on Wednesday. The driver was heading north when he attempted to pass a semi on the inside, which was also heading north and turning right at Rose Crossing. When the driver realized he couldn't make it pass the semi, he slammed on the brakes and flipped the truck. No one was injured in the one-vehicle accident and the truck fired right up after being turned right side up. The driver was cited for careless driving. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Truck stop
A driver and passenger view their toppled pickup truck after an accident on U.S. 2 and Rose Crossing on Tuesday evening. The driver was heading north when he attempted to pass a northbound semi-truck on the inside lane, according to the Montana Highway Patrol. The semi also was heading north and turning right at Rose Crossing. When the pickup driver realized he couldn’t make it past the semi, he braked and the truck rolled. No one was injured; the truck started right up after being pulled onto all four wheels. The driver was cited for careless driving. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Rudy H. Matule, 99
Donald G. Zimmerman, 75
Donald G. Zimmerman, 75, of Somers, passed away on Tuesday, March 10, 2015, surrounded by his three children at Brendan House, after a short battle with cancer.
Tuesday, March 10
Governor's proposal to expand Medicaid dies on House vote
HELENA — The state House on Tuesday officially killed the governor’s proposal to expand Medicaid to about 70,000 low-income Montanans.
Federal health insurance aid in doubt for nearly 8 million
WASHINGTON (AP) — Nearly 8 million people could lose up to $24 billion a year in health insurance subsidies in a Supreme Court case threatening President Barack Obama’s law, according to a government report released Tuesday.
Man dies in head-on crash
EAST HELENA (AP) — A head-on collision between a semi tractor-trailer and a pickup truck east of East Helena left one man dead and another man facing a felony charge.
Hillary Rodham Clinton
Hillary Rodham Clinton answers questions at a news conference at the United Nations, Tuesday, March 10, 2015. Clinton conceded that she should have used a government email to conduct business as secretary of state, saying her decision was simply a matter of "convenience." (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
Clinton says she should have used official email
UNITED NATIONS (AP) — Breaking her silence, Hillary Rodham Clinton conceded Tuesday that she should have used government email as secretary of state and acknowledged she had destroyed tens of thousands of emails in her private account that she described as personal in nature.
Friendly advice or too much information?
A front-desk employee at a Montclair Drive business received an odd phone call that she felt she had to report to the
Democrats deplore GOP letter to Iran
Baby killed before being cut by power saw
CHICAGO (AP) — A Chicago woman is charged in the death of her 7-month-old granddaughter, who was struck in the head multiple times before having her throat cut with a power saw, prosecutors announced Tuesday.
Target to lay off 1,700, not fill 1,400 vacancies
MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Target Corp. said Tuesday that it is laying off 1,700 workers and eliminating another 1,400 unfilled positions as part of a restructuring aimed at saving $2 billion over the next two years.
Campaign bill goes to panel viewed as more favorable
Bill would ban license scans
HELENA — The state House Monday endorsed a bill barring Montana governments from using license-plate scanners to gather data on vehicles on public highways, with supporters arguing the practice violates citizens’ privacy.
House endorses sale of raw milk
The House advanced a bill last week to allow the sale of raw milk, after a floor debate that centered on a balance of liberty versus risk.
Texting woman walks into path of freight train
LAKELAND, Fla. (AP) — Police say a 27-year-old woman who was texting walked into the path of a freight train, was clipped and thrown into the air, but survived.
City may buy debt-ridden lots
The city of Kalispell soon may be selling real estate as part of a plan to save the Old School Station development.
Pay attention: House OKs bill to ban texting while driving
HELENA (AP) — The state House has endorsed a bill that would ban texting while driving.
Princess Ball
Daybook
West Valley School: Young scientists test their theories
A total of 170 West Valley School fourth- through eighth-graders competed in the school science fair Monday.
Ski heritage recognized during Hellroaring Days
Dog that bit toddler put down on Friday
A pit bull/Labrador mix dog that bit an 18-month-old child in the face was euthanized on Friday, according to Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry.
Governor to join school dedication at Whitefish High
Whitefish School District will formally dedicate the new high school next week with guests Gov. Steve Bullock and Whitefish Mayor John Muhlfeld.
Hodges named top FVCC graduate
Honoring her service to Flathead Valley Community College for nearly 40 years, Faith Hodges received the 2015 Distinguished Alumni Award on Tuesday.
Open house looks at future of south Kalispell
Residents scribbled on survey sheets and mingled with architects at an open house Tuesday to give their take on the development of south Kalispell along the U.S. 93 corridor.
Commissioners support fundraiser for patio
The Flathead County commissioners on Tuesday gave their nod of approval for a private fundraising campaign for an outdoor patio at the county’s new South Campus Building.
Thomas W. Trumbull, 78
Thomas W. Trumbull died Nov. 11, 2014.
Gay Moddrell
Gaylene Marie Moddrell, 74
Gaylene Marie Moddrell of Kalispell passed March 8, 2015, after a short illness.
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Blake Lindberg picks up Brynn so she can get a better view into the jet at the Glacier Jet Center on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Josh Fox reads to his son Kaleb and daughter Meadow during Read to me Daddy. This was the second session for the program, which is limited to 24 Head Start fathers. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Greyson Parks, 4, wears the Dr. Seuss hat he made during the Read to Me, Daddy program at the Head Start in Kalispell on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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A father picks up a copy of "Oh, the Places You'll Go!". After reading the book to their child at the Read to Me Daddy program, the dads bring the book home to add to their family library. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Dads look at airplanes with their children in a hangar of the Glacier Jet Center. After reading a book together, they are invited to go on field trips based on the books. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Patrick Teich reads Dr. Seuss' "Oh, the Places You'll Go," to his 4-year-old son Ethan during the Read To Me, Daddy program at the Kalispell Head Start on Saturday, March 7, 2015. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
James Hugh Kuechmann, 87
James Hugh Kuechmann, 87, was born on April 20, 1927, in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, and passed away peacefully at home on March 7, 2015.
Betty Irene DeLong, 87
Test Instory2 Position
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Kaylinn Perigen gets her hair curled by Alicia Hewitt at the fifth annual Valicity's Once Upon a Time Princess Ball at the Red Lion in Kalispell on Saturday. The ball was started to honor Valicity Lee Faith who lost her fight with cancer in 2010. The ball raises money for the agencies that helped Valicity in her battle. This year's ball benefited Angel Flight West. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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A tiara shines under the dance lights at Valicity's Once Upon a Time Princess Ball. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
This Week in the Flathead: Saint Patrick's Day
Cooper Vickhammer, 4, of Kalispell frowns at the snowy weather as he and others from the Child Development Center prepare for the start of the annual Saint Patrick's Day Parade on Saturday, March 17, 2012, in Kalispell. His mother referred to him as the grumpiest leprechaun of the day, but his mood improved immediately when he was given a cup of candy to throw to watchers along the parade route. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Esther Johnson, 94
Esther Johnson, 94, passed away peacefully at the Heritage Place Healthcare Community on Sunday, March 8, 2015.
Monday, March 9
Basketball: March Madness for prep squads
Bigfork will have the honor of opening and closing first-round action on Thursday at the Class B boys and girls state basketball tournaments at Four Seasons Arena in Great Falls.
Passion for painting rewarded with college exhibit
After working with some nontraditional students for years, Karen Leigh, Flathead Valley Community College adjunct art professor, decided to reward the artists with an art display.
FVCC professor returns from Australia projects
After spending six months transforming a massive Australian university, a Flathead Valley Community College professor said returning to the comparably tiny Flathead Valley was a little bit of reverse culture shock.
Caregiver course offers support
Aging isn’t easy. It’s expensive, frustrating and can be scary.
Driver could have yelled 'fore'
A man was riding a bicycle near Montana 35 and minding his own business when he was struck by a golf ball. It was reportedly thrown from a passing pickup truck, the cyclist told the
Suspect seeks to withdraw Alford plea in shooting case
A man accused of murdering his neighbor in Marion in 2014 is seeking to withdraw his plea ahead of a sentencing hearing.
Assisted-living relocation 'going smoothly'
All of the residents of Greenwood Village Assisted Living in Kalispell have been placed with other facilities since receiving 30-day notices that the facility will close in late March.
Finding new homes
All of the residents of Greenwood Village Assisted Living in Kalispell have been placed in other facilities since the closure of the facility was announced last month.
Henrietta Shropshire Simpson, 81
West Valley Science Fair
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Sunday, March 8
County landfill sees increase in waste stream
More garbage, better economy
The Flathead County Landfill disposed of 100,445 tons of garbage during the 2014 fiscal year, an increase of 5.42 percent over the previous year.
City seeks to fill vacancies
The city of Kalispell is looking to fill current and upcoming vacancies on a variety of boards, commissions and committees.
More garbage, better economy
A bulldozer moves trash in cell 4A at the landfill on Feb. 24, north of Kalispell. The cell is nearly full and Flathead County Solid Waste Operations Manager Jim Chilton said he expects to begin filling cell 4B in April or May.
Woman wanted one more beer
The
Evergreen fire chief talks about growth, dual roles of the department
As a young member of the Evergreen Volunteer Fire Department in the late ‘90s, Craig Williams saw an opportunity.
Craig Williams
Evergreen Fire Department Chief Craig Williams carefully watches the firefighters working on a structure fire on Plentywood Drive on Jan. 16.
Dr. William F. Zelezny, 96
John 'Jack' C. Bulen, 88
John “Jack” C. Bulen, 88, passed away at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls, on March 4, 2015, with his wife by his side.
Margaret J. Brockmann, 74
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Saturday, March 7
Hockey playoffs: Cobras drop Wolverines
WHITEFISH — Butte scored a pair of goals on consecutive shifts at the end of the first period and never relented, topping Whitefish 5-2 on Saturday night at Stumptown Ice Den to even the Western States Hockey League playoff series at 1-1.
C-Falls girls 3rd at state basketball
HAMILTON — The one-two scoring punch of Winter Kemppainen and Ciera Finberg was too much for Frenchtown as Columbia Falls rolled to a 67-34 victory in the consolation final on Saturday night at the Class A state girls basketball tournament.
Billings West first test for Glacier girls at state
Glacier (17-4) will open Class AA state girls basketball tournament action on Thursday at the Butte Civic Center with a 6:30 p.m. matchup with Billings West (11-10).
Schroeders celebrate 50 years together
Daybook
Crail-Perry
Sesock-New
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Jim and Yvette Marjerrison of Kalispell, together with Mike and Lori Johnson of Columbia Falls, announce the engagement of their children, Chelsey Marjerrison and Nicholas Johnson.
Hamm-Hunter
Neil and Doris Hamm of Great Falls, together with Scott and Laurie Hunter of Columbia Falls, announce the engagement of their children, Kristen Lynn Hamm and Logan Michael Hunter.
Can't Miele find anything good to say about Obama?
As per usual, Frank Miele has started off the New Year being Mr. Negative of the Flathead, hoping to sway as many of his “Editor’s 2 cents” readers as possible to his way of thinking and to join him in his shameful unjustified attacks of the Democratic Party in general and in particular, President Obama.
Grant to boost performances of 'Fire Speaks the Land' show
A Plum Creek Foundation grant will help bring performances of “Fire Speaks the Land,” an innovative educational presentation by the University of Montana’s CoMotion Dance Project, to more people this year.
Eskimo QB Reilly 'a class act'
Plenty of Flathead football fans are familiar with the name Mike Reilly.
CFAC closure means end of an era
It really was no surprise, but the official word last week that Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. was permanently closed still provided the element of finality.
People of Montana don't get anything from water compact
After listening to over five hours of testimony on SB 262, plus questions and answers, I believe I can summarize the Salish and Kootenai water compact in the following statements:
City wants input on future of south Kalispell
Tuesday open house launches community conversation
A conversation about a long-debated issue — the development of south Kalispell — is being revived.
Kalispell Brewing expanding capacity
In just nine months of operation, Kalispell Brewing Co. proved that the Flathead Valley was thirsty for its beers.
Bakery, winery win state ag grants
Two local businesses are benefiting from state grants that will help them build better, more sustainable businesses in the future.
Learn about Kumamoto during lunch lectures
Flathead Valley Community College’s international student club, Global Friends, will host two free community brown bag lunch presentations by Kim Morisaki on Kumamoto, Japan (Montana’s sister state) at noon Wednesday and Thursday in the Blake Hall board room.
Next up for the north end: Planning Board to consider shopping center, casino
The Kalispell Planning Board will consider on Tuesday whether or not the next major commercial development on U.S. 93 North should move forward.
GOP to blame for everything? It ain't necessarily so!
I read, with great interest the very scholarly but very lengthy article written by Todd Cardin, which was published in the Dec. 28 edition of the Daily Inter Lake.
Final phase of Bigfork project mapped out
Plans are moving forward for the final phase of the Bigfork Stormwater Project.
Next up for the north end
The fourth phase of the Spring Prairie development is proposed to be built at this corner of land adjoining the Kidsports Complex. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers must make a determination on whether or not the pond on this section of land can be filled for the project. (Aaric Bryan photos/Daily Inter Lake)
Persuaded to support compact despite noise from other side
Having just read Bob Henline’s story “Water compact forum gets contentious,” I feel moved to comment on the sensationalized and somewhat slanted view he presented.
South Campus project kicks off March 18
Fundraising underway for outdoor patio
Flathead County seniors will gather on Wednesday, March 18, for a groundbreaking ceremony at the South Campus Building construction site at the corner of First Avenue West and 11th Street in Kalispell.
Flathead bike trails No. 7 in nation
The Flathead Valley has been tabbed as a top destination for mountain bikers.
Community meal program brings Canyon folks together
On the last Thursday of the month, the former Canyon Elementary School in Hungry Horse is a beehive of activity.
The Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery in Whitefish
Matt Thome makes cinnamon rolls early Friday morning at the the Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery in the Stumptown Marketplace in Whitefish.
Allystria Johnson
Allystria Johnson, daughter of Douglas and Autumn Johnson of Columbia Falls, was born Oct. 30 at North Valley Hospital.
Addison Marie Ohs
Addison Marie Ohs, daughter of Tanner Ohs and Kim Crosswhite of Kalispell, was born Oct. 29 at North Valley Hospital.
Cameron Marshall McCoy
Cameron Marshall McCoy, son of Brett and Anna McCoy of Kalispell, was born Oct. 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Hadlee McKenna Mae Richardson
Hadlee McKenna Mae Richardson, daughter of Andrew Richardson and Taylor O’Hara of Eureka, was born Oct. 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Jacob Michael Sullivan
Jacob Michael Sullivan, son of Jerry Sullivan and Leah Jensen of Kila, was born Oct. 27 at North Valley Hospital.
Sabrina Renee Schwegel
Sabrina Renee Schwegel, daughter of Ryan and Cheryl Schwegel of Whitefish, was born Oct. 25 at North Valley Hospital.
Sydney Danielle Dalimata
Sydney Danielle Dalimata, daughter of Robert Dalimata and Karli Amundson, was born Oct. 24 at North Valley Hospital.
Ezekiel Edward Prestegaard
Ezekiel Edward Prestegaard, son of Jacob Prestegaard and Marcela Cloud of Whitefish, was born Oct. 22 at North Valley Hospital.
Lyndon Hammel Steele
Lyndon Hammel Steele, son of Nathan and Kathleen Steele of Whitefish, was born Oct. 2 at North Valley Hospital.
Mexico official: 14 police arrested for kidnap, extortion
CIUDAD VICTORIA, Mexico (AP) — Mexican troops have detained 15 federal police officers on charges of kidnapping the owner of a construction company in the northern border city of Matamoros and demanding a $2 million ransom, a government official said Saturday.
IS destroying another ancient archaeological site
BAGHDAD (AP) — Islamic State militants continued their campaign targeting cultural heritage sites in territories they control in northern Iraq, looting and damaging the ancient city of Hatra just one day after bulldozing the historic city of Nimrud, according to Iraqi government officials and local residents. The destruction in Hatra comes as the militant Islamic group fended off an Iraqi army offensive in Saddam Hussein’s hometown and fought pitched battles in eastern Syria in an area populated by predominantly Christian villages.
Nigeria's Boko Haram pledges allegiance to Islamic State
MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (AP) — Nigeria’s home-grown Boko Haram Islamic extremists have pledged formal allegiance to the Islamic State group in a message allegedly by the Nigerian insurgent leader posted on Twitter and reported by the SITE Intelligence monitoring service.
5 dead, 2 expats, in shooting at restaurant in Mali capital
BAMAKO, Mali (AP) — A masked gunman sprayed bullets in a restaurant popular with foreigners in Mali’s capital early Saturday, killing five people including a French person and a Belgian national, officials and witnesses said.
'Baby daddy' drama divides women
A woman called
Crooked River road may become scenic bikeway
CAMP SHERMAN, Ore. (AP) — One of the prettiest stretches of highway in the state may be soon getting a little more attention.
Multiple car crash on I-5 leads to injuries, traffic closure
PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Portland Police say a multiple vehicle crash on Interstate 5 in Portland has left nine people injured, including two children and one adult in critical condition.
Jewish cemetery sued for throwing out remains
LOS ANGELES (AP) — One of the nation’s largest Jewish cemeteries and the resting place of notables including Groucho Marx has been sued for allegedly breaking vaults to make room for more graves and throwing out human bones in a pile.
Garage roof collapses at block party
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif. (AP)— Dozens of people were standing on a garage roof when it collapsed around dawn Saturday during a pre-St. Patrick’s Day block party in San Luis Obispo, Calif., injuring nine, authorities said.
Holy cow: five pairs of twin calves born on small ranch
GREAT FALLS— Calving season is nothing new to Don Eakman.
'L'etat c'est moi': Obama vs. the people
What is “the state”? On that question hinges the fate of Obamacare, and perhaps the fate of the nation.
John 'Jack' C. Bulen, 88
John “Jack” C. Bulen, 88, passed away at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls, on March 4, 2015, with his wife by his side.
E.D. 'Corkey' Morehead, 86
E.D. “Corkey” Morehead, 86, passed away on Friday, March 6, 2015, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.
Jacqueline Dolph Macy, 87
Jacqueline Dolph Macy, 87, of Polson, died of natural causes on Nov. 2, 2014.
Carlyle J. Mikkelson, 82
Carlyle J. Mikkelson, 82, passed away on Monday, Feb. 16, 2015, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Sally Marie (Snyder) McIlhargey, 70
Sally Marie (Snyder) McIlhargey, 70, passed away March 1, 2015, in Kalispell, of natural causes.
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Patrick Teich reads Dr. Seuss' "Oh, the Places You'll Go," to his 4-year-old son Ethan during the Read To Me, Daddy program at the Kalispell Head Start on Saturday, March 7, 2015. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Blake Lindberg picks up Brynn so she can get a better view into the jet at the Glacier Jet Center on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Friday, March 6
Wolverines win playoff opener with Butte
WHITEFISH — The historic season continues for the Whitefish Wolverines.
Wildkats bounce back at state
HAMILTON — The Columbia Falls girls responded from a first-round upset to rout Lewistown 71-31 in loser-out play at the Class A state basketball tournament on Friday at Hamilton High School.
Peters resigns as WHS girls basketball coach
Clint Peters has resigned as head girls basketball coach at Whitefish High School.
Snowpack declines during dry February
An unusually warm, dry February put a dent in the mountain snowpack in Northwest Montana.
Income tax cuts vetoed
HELENA (AP) — A bill that would cut income taxes across the board has met its demise.
Medicaid bill: 'Do not pass'
HELENA — A Republican-led committee voted to send a “do not pass” recommendation to the full House on the governor’s Medicaid expansion proposal known as the “Healthy Montana Plan.”
Dems hopeful for second half
With the Montana Legislature resuming after its midsession break this week, the Flathead’s two-member Democratic delegation is looking forward to working on major bills still chugging through the House.
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Wolverine forward Kieffer Helbing rips a slap shot during the first period against Butte. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Whitefish Wolverines forward Aleksei Garin (88) fights off Butte Cobra’s Nick Wrobel in a best-of-three Western States Hockey League playoff series at the Stumptown Ice Den on Friday. Whitefish won the opener 4-2. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Two try to escape from county jail
BOZEMAN — Two Gallatin County jail inmates being held on behalf of neighboring counties face charges alleging they attacked a detention officer in an attempt to escape while in the jail’s recreation area.
Helena man charged with using kids as shields from police
HELENA — A Helena man is charged with threatening police officers with a hammer when they tried to arrest and then using his children as shields after officers drew their weapons.
Street sweeper theft suspect going to prison for drugs
BILLINGS (AP) — A former Butte Pre-release Center inmate who faces charges alleging he stole a pickup truck fitted with a street sweeper with plans to drive to Mexico has been sentenced to 5 years on drug possession and trespassing charges.
Senate panel hears mental health bills
HELENA — State senators heard on Friday a slate of bills to expand Montana’s mental health care system, many of which overlap with the governor’s plan.
Annual event honors hunting instructors
Today, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will honor long-serving volunteer instructors in its hunter and bowhunter education courses.
Lawsuit filed to force release of racist emails
BILLINGS (AP) — Attorneys for two journalists have filed a lawsuit seeking the disclosure of hundreds of racist and inappropriate emails from Montana’s former Chief U.S. District Judge.
Butte man pleads guilty to negligent homicide
BUTTE (AP) — A 19-year-old Butte man has pleaded guilty to negligent homicide in the Halloween 2013 crash that killed a passenger.
Pair pilfer $9,000 worth of underwear
CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Police say a man and woman have stolen more than $9,000 worth of women’s undergarments from a department store in Wyoming’s capital.
Officer a hero in 'fierce' gun battle
Robert Wilson III
Moving pains for new homeowner
While settling into her new place on Tronstad Road, a woman started noticing that the front door was wide open in the morning. She reported to the
Hackers steal 1 billion email addresses
ATLANTA (AP) — Computer hackers stole a whopping 1 billion email addresses from U.S. marketing companies in what federal authorities Friday described as a massive spam scheme.
Ski lift evacuated at Jackson Hole Resort
JACKSON, Wyo. (AP) — About 90 skiers and snowboarders had to be evacuated from a disabled ski lift at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.
Ringling circuses to be elephant-free
POLK CITY, Fla. (AP) — Animal rights activists were stunned when the parent company of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus announced it would eliminate elephants from its circus performances by 2018.
Oil train derailment
Smoke and flames erupt Thursday from the scene of an oil-train derailment near Galena, Illinois. (AP photo)
Oil train derailment involved safer cars that split, burned
GALENA, Ill. (AP) — The rail cars that split open and burst into flames during a western Illinois oil train derailment this week had been retrofitted with protective shields to meet a higher safety standard than federal law requires, railroad officials said.
U.S. 93 business growth detailed in Whitefish
Whitefish work
The sound of progress was audible as hammers pounded and saws buzzed during the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce lunch meeting Thursday.
Key panel dives into budget plans Republicans is 'unacceptable'
HELENA — A key budget panel began work Thursday on the 2015 Legislature’s major spending bill, which Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock’s budget director called “unacceptable” in its current form.
Students flock to biomedical class
Flathead High School freshman Gracie Spence opens the exterior of a sheep heart during a dissection exercise for biomedical science on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan photos/Daily Inter Lake)
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Glacier wins
Western AA play-in games
Images from the Western AA play-in games at Glacier High School on Thursday, March 5, 2015. The Wolfpack girls beat Missoula Hellgate 57-30 to advance to state. The Wolfpack boys lost to Missoula Big Sky to end their season.
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Taylor Salonen, left, and Katie Wiley embrace as they walk off the court after beating Missoula Hellgate 57-30 to earn a berth in the AA state playoffs. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Glacier's Noah Lindsay, left, and Tucker Rauthe battle with Missoula Big Sky's Colin Bingham for a loose ball during the final minutes of the Wolfpack's 47-41 loss in the state play-in game at Glacier on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Jake Norberg walks off the court as the Big Sky Eagles celebrate after the Wolfpack's 47-41 loss. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Glacier girls basketball
Hailee Bennett (4) and Brielle Bumgarner (21) celebrate after Taylor Salonen drains a 3-pointer late in the third of the Wolfpack's 57-30 rout of Missoula Hellgate in the state play-in game at Glacier on March 6, 2015. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Profile: Craig Williams
Fire Chief Craig Williams at the Evergreen Fire Department on Friday, March 6.
Grocery Delivery Program
JoAnne Blake, left, and Sue Cummings, share a laugh on Friday, March 6, at the Rosauer's in Kalispell. Six years ago the pair started the Grocery Delivery Program and are preparing to retire and hand the project over to the United Way. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Jacqueline Dolph Macy, 87
The Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery in Whitefish
Matt Thome makes cinnamon rolls in the early hours of Friday morning, March 6, at the The Polebridge Mercantile and Bakery in the Stumptown Marketplace in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Sally Marie (Snyder) McIlhargey, 70
Whitefish Shopko
Construction is underway at the Mountain Mall in Whitefish on Friday, March 6. The space is being made ready for a new Shopko store.
Big Sky upends Wolfpack boys
The opportunities presented themselves, but the Glacier Wolfpack’s execution came up just short.
Glacier girls going to state
With every second that ticked off the clock, Glacier grew its lead as it inched closer to Butte.
Butte Central shatters C-Falls' title hopes
HAMILTON — Columbia Falls saw its state championship dreams fall short on Thursday, falling to Butte Central 49-47 in the first round of the Class A girls state basketball tournament on a last second tip in.
Hockey playoffs start in Whitefish
In its inaugural season, the Whitefish Wolverines have brought the Western States Hockey League playoffs to the Stumptown Ice Den.
Thursday, March 5
Daybook
Today, March 6
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Jake Norberg walks off the court as the Big Sky Eagles celebrate after the Wolfpack's 47-41 loss. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Hailee Bennett (4) and Brielle Bumgarner (21) celebrate after Taylor Salonen drains a 3-pointer late in the third of the Wolfpack's 57-30 rout of Missoula Hellgate in the state play-in game at Glacier on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Glacier’s Taylor Salonen, left, and Katie Wiley embrace as they walk off the court Thursday after beating Missoula Hellgate 57-30 to earn a berth in the AA state playoffs. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
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Glacier's Noah Lindsay, left, and Tucker Rauthe battle with Missoula Big Sky's Colin Bingham for a loose ball during the final minutes of the Wolfpack's 47-41 loss in the state play-in game at Glacier on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Freeloaders need lesson in manners
On March 3, our local IHOP hosted National Pancake Day and offered free short stacks to raise donations for the Children’s Miracle Network hospitals.
Public education isn't a business
During my 39 years of teaching in a public school, I have gotten to know and had the privilege of teaching many distinct, caring, and motivated individuals who have gone on to have fulfilling and productive lives. They have become pillars of their communities. They have become doctors, nurses, teachers, mechanics, clerks, lawyers, military officers, athletes, bankers, custodians, loving mothers and fathers, and much more.
Public lands are national treasure
On Feb. 16 my wife and I attended the Public Lands Rally in Helena in the State Capitol rotunda. The rally began at high noon, but people started filtering through the doors well before that. Many sported posters and banners in support of keeping our federal lands in public hands. As the rally began, people continued filing into the room standing shoulder to shoulder. All the hallways, balconies and staircase were packed full.
Lessons of Yalta must be heeded
Any of you readers old enough to remember WWII will surely remember FDR at Yalta, and his remarks that Stalin was so paranoid that if we just gave him what he wanted we could deal with him.
Saying farewell to three leaders
Iran's role in fighting Islamic State questioned
Snow blankets South, Northeast
Plane skids off LaGuardia runway
Corvallis man pleads not guilty to kidnapping, rape
HAMILTON (AP) — A Corvallis man could face the death penalty in the alleged kidnapping and rape of a 17-year-old mother who authorities say was forcibly injected with methamphetamine over the course of days.
Missoula County settles discrimination case
MISSOULA (AP) — Missoula County has settled a lawsuit filed by a sheriff’s deputy who said she was discriminated against when she was repeatedly questioned about a kiss she shared with a married deputy at her residence during a time when he failed to respond to a 911 call.
Resident displeased with tree trim
Perhaps possessed by the spirit of early spring cleaning, a 30-year-old man was reported to be up in a tree on Liberty Street, hacking off branches with a hatchet. Not enthused with the trim, the property owner called the
Freight train hauling crude oil derails in Illinois
GALENA, Ill. (AP) — A BNSF Railway freight train loaded with crude oil derailed Thursday near the northern Illinois city of Galena and erupted into flames, authorities said.
Actor Harrison Ford injured in plane crash
LOS ANGELES (AP) — Harrison Ford reported engine failure shortly after takeoff and told air-traffic controllers he was returning to the airport before crash-landing his vintage plane on a nearby golf course in Los Angeles.
Jurors in Jodi Arias case 11-1 for death penalty
Dwarf planet Ceres gets ready for spotlight
Sentences suspended for drunken car chase
A Kalispell man who led police on a drunken car chase in January 2014 will spend no additional jail time after his sentencing on Thursday.
Biologist to talk about lake trout suppression
Clinic vandalism suspect to change pleas
A Columbia Falls man accused of massive vandalism at a Kalispell medical clinic is set to change his pleas, according to court documents.
Flathead rolls out forest plan
Flathead National Forest’s revision of its forest plan is being released today for public comment.
Plans move ahead of funds on bypass
The Montana Department of Transportation hopes to get to work this summer on the rest of the U.S. 93 bypass west of Kalispell despite uncertain availability of federal transportation money.
Students present projects at fair
Flathead County Science Fair
An explosion of data, hypotheses, observations and conclusions resulting from a mixture of interest, curiosity and research occurred Thursday at the Flathead County Science Fair.
Nursing program to expand to Libby
Citing a need in Lincoln County for qualified nursing staff, Flathead Valley Community College will expand its practical nursing program to the Lincoln County Campus in Libby.
Flathead bike trails
Darryl Iblings cruises down the Notch Trail at Herron Park during the 24 Hours of Flathead race in September. The Flathead area has been chosen the No. 7 mountain-bike destination in the country by singletracks.com. (Aaric Bryan file photos/Daily Inter Lake)
Montana Life: Canyon Community Dinner
Karene Manus adds tomatoes to a spinach salad as she and others prepare for the once-a-month community dinner at the Canyon Elementary School on Thursday, February 26, in Hungry Horse. Vera Smith said they prefer to make dishes that are fresh and organic whenever possible. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Flathead County Science Fair
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Irish melodies with Tra le Gael
Audience members chatter and mill about, and the buzz of anticipation is palpable in the auditorium. A gaggle of instruments lay unceremoniously on the stage.
This Week in the Flathead Events Calendar | March 5-11
Tra le Gael
Tough tests begin for Wildkats
There haven’t been many tests this season for the Columbia Falls girls.
Wildkats' title hopes head to Hamilton
There are no more easy games.
Wednesday, March 4
Glacier eyes two state trips with doubleheader play-in
The Glacier Wolfpack basketball programs are one win away from another remarkable season.
Judge confirms settlement in sex-abuse claims against church
Panel subpoenas Clinton emails
Toddler injured in dog attack
Water compact forum gets contentious
Sometimes you need a drink that bad
Daybook
Defiant Alabama regains ground against gay marriage
U.S. clears Ferguson officer, criticizes police
You're invited to 'Night at Museum'
Treatment of residents 'terrible'
Water compact not to be trusted
Eviction disruptive to residents (who may need help in some cases)
Trusting Iran is an absurd wager
U.S. Senate fails to override Obama's veto of pipeline
Dzhokhar Tsarnaev
Boston Marathon Bombing
Boston Marathon bombing survivor Heather Abbott is helped from a bus outside federal court, Wednesday, March 4, 2015, in Boston, on the first day of the federal death penalty trial of bombing suspect Dzhokhar Tsarnaev. Tsarnaev is charged with conspiring with his brother to place two bombs near the Boston Marathon finish line in April 2013, killing three and injuring 260 people. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
Bleating hearts times four: New arrivals at the vo-ag center
Defense admits Tsarnaev bombed Boston
Progress report planned on rail-yard work
Kalispell hospital expands Polson facilities
Knee patient endures fallout from post-surgery infection
Lentil farmers buck big agriculture trends
Justices divided over health-care subsidies
U.S. ambassador hurt by slasher
Kalispell lawmaker wants to ban abortions by telemedicine
Hospital leaders back Medicaid expansion
Where does Medicaid money go?
Bleating hearts times four
Profile: Janice Alexander
Portrait of Janice Alexander a professor of chemistry, forensic science and mathematics at Flathead Valley Community College on Wednesday, March 4. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Janice Alexander
Janice Alexander, FVCC professor of chemistry, forensic science and mathematics, explains an experiment to area high school students at College for a Day on March 3 at Flathead Valley Community College. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Victor Edwin Melendy, 57
Supreme Court Health Overhaul Subsidies
Rep. Louie Gohmert, R-Texas speaks at a rally outside the Supreme Court in Washington, Wednesday, March 4, 2015, as the court was hearing arguments in King v. Burwell, a major test of President Barack Obama's health overhaul which, if successful, could halt health care premium subsidies in all the states where the federal government runs the insurance marketplaces. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
Tuesday, March 3
Basketball: Seasons end on the road for Braves, Bravettes
HELENA — After hanging step for step with the defending champion Helena Capital Bruins, the Flathead Braves lost their momentum, ultimately falling 63-44 in their Class AA state play-in game on Tuesday night.
Emily Ruth Williams, 56
Emily Ruth Williams, 56, “went home to be with Jesus” on Saturday, Feb. 21, 2015.
Dorothy Ruth Robinson, 93
Winter wolf harvests trail prior seasons
BILLINGS (AP) — Trappers in Montana have killed 77 gray wolves and hunters have shot 127 so far this winter — a total of 204 animals — as the season for the animals nears its end.
Law enforcement roundup
New judge to hear local murder case
A new judge will oversee the case of an Evergreen man accused of murdering a toddler.
Warrant served on suspect in abuse case
A Whitefish man has returned to jail while he awaits trial for alleged sexual online conversations with a 14-year-old girl.
Kalispell to begin work on major sewer project
The Kalispell City Council awarded a contract on Monday for the first section of pipe in an estimated $14 million, multiyear sewer project.
Campus opens doors to high-schoolers
College for a Day
College for a Day goes beyond a campus visit. Roughly 800 high school students sampled abbreviated versions of college courses in their academic areas of interest.
Man convicted of gun crime
A Whitefish man accused of firing a handgun at a motorcycle reached a plea agreement with prosecutors last week.
Sylvia Murphy in 2006
Longtime community leader Murphy dies at 98
Longtime Flathead Valley community leader and local author Sylvia Murphy died of congestive heart failure Monday in Kalispell. She was less than a month shy of her 99th birthday.
Murderer of two killed himself in cell
The Toole County coroner confirmed Tuesday that a Kalispell man convicted of a brutal double murder killed himself in prison.
Daybook
Outlaw co-founder Torstenson dies at 94
Longtime Kalispell businessman and civic leader Ronald W. “Buck” Torstenson, best known as a co-founder of the Outlaw Inn, died on Saturday at age 94.
Aluminum plant history extends back to '50s
Following is a brief history of the aluminum plant near Columbia Falls. The permanent closure of the plant was announced Tuesday by Columbia Falls Aluminum Co.
Netanyahu warns U.S. of 'bad deal' with Iran
Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. permanently closed
Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. is closing permanently and will demolish some plant facilities, company spokesman Haley Beaudry said Tuesday.
CFAC plant
A worker watches as molten aluminum is transferred at Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. in January 2001. The plant, shuttered since 2009, now has been permanently closed. (Daily Inter lake file photo)
R.W. 'Buck' Torstenson, 94
R.W. "Buck" Torstenson, 94, “went to be with Jesus” on Feb. 28, 2015, at the Brendan House in Kalispell, surrounded by his loving wife and family.
Carlyle J. Mikkelson, 82
Sylvia Murphy, 98
Sylvia B. Murphy, 98, died of congestive heart failure on March 2, 2015, under inpatient-hospice care at The HealthCenter in Kalispell, after a long and joyous life. She touched many people and will be dearly missed.
Dr. William J. Little, 92
Dr. William J. Little, 92, passed away Feb. 24, 2015, of complications from heart surgery at Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center, Spokane.
College 4 A Day at Flathead Valley Community College
Professor Effat Rady discusses options for students interested in engineering at the seventh annual "College 4 A Day" event at Flathead Valley Community College on Tuesday, March 3. Approximately 800 high school juniors from around the Flathead Valley took part in the program. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
College for a Day
APTOPIX US Israel Netanyahu
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaks before a joint meeting of Congress on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, March 3, 2015. Netanyahu is using the address to warn against trusting Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions. House Speaker John Boehner of Ohio, left, and Sen. Orrin Hatch, R-Utah, listen. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
Columbia Falls Aluminum Co.
Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. is pictured from the air. Teakettle Mountain is to the left and the Flathead River flowing through Bad Rock Canyon is to the right. The plant is being considered for Superfund cleanup listing. (Photo courtesy of Hungry Horse News)
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Monday, March 2
State play-in road games for Flathead cagers
Flathead’s hopes for a trip to the upcoming Class AA state boys and girls basketball tournaments will rest with victories in road games tonight.
Northwest A basketball: Polson tops Frenchtown
WHITEFISH — Andrew Curley scored 19 of his game-high 26 points in the second half to rally Polson past Frenchtown 52-42 on Monday night in a Northwest A divisional boys basketball challenge game at Whitefish High School.
94-year-old man praises Kalispell health care
Hollister “Pat” McVay isn’t a typical 94-year old, inside or out.
Renter returns to find new tenants
A Lakeside resident was out of town for eight months only to return to find people living in his home. The man told the
Legislators sum up first half of session
The tribal water compact under consideration in Helena was a major issue Monday during a gathering of Republican lawmakers in Kalispell.
Bigfork water work continues
Flushing of water mains continues in Bigfork to try to remove coliform bacteria from the water supply.
Woman celebrates 100th birthday with family, friends
Inez Miller was ready to stop being the center of attention.
Bargain-price prom dresses offered in Columbia Falls
Prom Dress Express is open at Columbia Falls High School.
Close finishes highlight Flathead Classic
Close competition marked the Flathead Classic Sled Dog Race that attracted 34 teams on Saturday and 30 teams on Sunday near Olney.
Billie Smith, 77
Billie Smith, 77, passed away peacefully at her home in Bigfork on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2015, while surrounded by her family and close friends.
Louise I. Morrow, 88
Louise I. Morrow, 88, passed away Feb. 28, 2015. surrounded by her family.
Thomas C. O'Donnell, 71
Thomas C. O’Donnell, 71, passed away in his favorite recliner at his Kalispell residence on Feb. 24, 2015.
Dorcas M. Louden, 87
Dorcas M. Louden, 87, passed away on Saturday, Feb. 28, 2015, making her long-awaited passing from the Edgewood Vista community, Kalispell “into the next of eternity with Jesus.”
Town Hall Forum at Sykes
Rep. Keith Regier, R-Kalispell, speaks at a Town Hall forum at Sykes on Monday, March 2, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Seussville at Flathead Valley Community College
Students from Cayuse Prairie listen to Meghan Danford read There's a Wocket in My Pocket! by Dr. Seuss on Monday, March 2, at Seussville University, at Flathead Valley Community College. Approximately 30 of the college's students took part in the event.
Brutal double murderer dies in prison
A Kalispell man who brutally murdered a mother and daughter on Christmas Day 2010 died Sunday night in a Shelby prison.
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Sunday, March 1
Kalispell Council to vote on sewer project
The Kalispell City Council is expected to vote tonight on bids for a first phase of the West Side Sewer Interceptor project.
Eric Michael Krop
Eric Michael Krop in the Whitefish Performing Arts Center on Feb. 25. Krop has returned to Montana and will be performing locally with Erica Von Kleist and others, as well as taking part in the Alpine Theatre Project summer series.
Lakeshore regulations on Whitefish agenda
The Whitefish City Council will tackle a couple of big issues during a work session that precedes tonight’s council meeting.
Whitefish Ford VW
DePratu has new owner
DePratu Ford Volkswagen in Whitefish has a new owner and a new name.
Women get lesson on being nice
The
Singer takes 'artistic sabbatical' in the Flathead
New kid in town
Pop has a new voice in town.
Richard Russell Yeo, 90
Flathead Classic Sled Dog Race
Images from the Flathead Classic Sled Dog Race in Olney on Saturday, February 28, 2015.
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Loyola stuns Bigfork in Western B divisional final
Bigfork fell into deep foul trouble and couldn’t shoot its way out on Saturday night, losing to Missoula Loyola-Sacred Heart 67-55 in the Western B boys basketball championship game at Flathead High School.