Ellington

Polson's Tiara Duford

Polson's Tiara Duford tries to steal the ball from a Columbia Falls player in this file photo. (Kylie Richter/Lake County Leader)

BOYS SOCCER: Wildcats ready to make leap

Columbia Falls primed for jump in second year under Byrd 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

It took O’Brien Byrd just four seasons to win his first boys soccer state championship at Whitefish High School.

GIRLS SOCCER: Polson taking aim at title

Pirates soccer seeking to dethrone conference kings Columbia Falls, Whitefish 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

Michael Hewston has spent eight seasons as the Polson girls soccer coach, building a program without much of a tradition into one of the most talented teams in the state.

TERRY COLUMN: Getting the bad side of bye weeks

Class AA football is seeing a shift in its schedule for the first time in more than a decade.

SOCCER: Bigfork boys cancel season

Vikings to forfeit games, citing low turnout

BIGFORK — There are few, if any, Class B schools in the state that offer as many athletic opportunities for their students as Bigfork.

LAW ROUNDUP: Man charged after chase, crash

Rumble in the Bay

Pink stripes adorn the hood of a black 1947 Buick Roadmaster owned by Robert Casey of Kalispell.

Mary Eva (Largent) Bray

Rita Kay Stroisch Taylor

William James Sandson

Calgary man sentenced for shooting spree

A Lincoln County judge on Monday sentenced a 41-year-old Calgary man to life in prison without parole for a shooting incident near Eureka in 2015.

Zinke, Daines back Blacktail Road project

Montana’s Republican representatives in Washington, D.C., have endorsed the proposed Blacktail Road paving project, for which public comments are due Friday.

Zoning plan could affect bottling plant

Public hearing Sept. 8 will consider expanded district

A citizen-initiated effort is underway to expand the Egan Slough Zoning District to include property where a water bottling plant is proposed near Creston on property that currently is unzoned.

Slope repair may start this fall

The stabilization of a slump-prone bluff near Village Greens golf community is finally moving forward six years after the first landslide occurred.

Five vehicles involved in highway crash

Several people suffered serious injuries Wednesday afternoon in a five-vehicle crash on U.S. 2 west of Kalispell.

LAW ROUNDUP: Drop box assaulted, but hangs tough

A night drop box was reportedly knocked over or “ripped out of the ground” on U.S. 93 in Whitefish, according to Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. It appeared that nothing was taken or missing from inside the lock box.

Evelyn Chase Maddux, 98

Evelyn Chase Maddux was born to Fred and Shirley Chase on April 8,1918, in Whitefish, where she spent her life.

SOCCER: Whitefish kicks off season with win at Bigfork

Whitefish senior Haley Nicholson nets hat trick in 4-1 victory

BIGFORK — Whitefish senior Haley Nicholson will be the center of attention for opposing defenses all year for the Bulldogs girls soccer team.

CROSS COUNTRY: Polson girls top field at Butte Invitational

Frissell, Sitter post top 10 finishes to lead Pirates

FAIRMONT — Four Polson girls finished in the top 19, leading the Pirates to the team victory at the Butte Central Invitational on Tuesday.

Evelyn Chase Maddux

Whitefish at Bigfork soccer

Whitefish captain Haley Nicholson gets past Bigfork defender Jordan Nelson during the Bulldogs' 4-1 victory in Bigfork on Tuesday. Nicholson scored three goals in the contest. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Fire spawns spot fires, thick smoke

The massive Copper King Fire burning near Thompson Falls continues to grow and spew smoke across Northwest Montana as firefighters work to corral it.

Community School debuts at Flathead

Outdated information was included in a back-to-school preview for Flathead High School.

Copper King at night

Immanuel builds for growing senior population

Among the $147 million Flathead County’s health-care service providers have put toward the creation of new health care facilities since 2012, a recent project aims to meet the needs of Montana’s aging society.

Flathead health industry growth skyrockets

In the last 25 years, Flathead County’s health-care sector has not only outpaced other Montana industries — it has grown more than twice as fast as the U.S. health-care sector.

Camper Fire

Camper Fire 2

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Bees hover near a sunflower at the Lakeside Community Garden on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Fire destroys fifth-wheel trailer

A fifth-wheel trailer was destroyed by fire Tuesday morning near Glacier Park International Airport.

Wildfire protection starts in these 5 places

Zinke, Juneau meet for first U.S. House debate

FRAZER, Mont. — U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke and Democratic challenger Denise Juneau sparred on Native American, rural issues and refugee resettlements in their first debate Monday on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.

Montana House Debate

Coping with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome: A lesson in patience and perseverance

Budgeting basics for first-time home buyers

Expert tips that can help achieve potty training success

Gun-waving man confronts driver

William Arnold, 91

William Arnold, 91, known to many as Wild Bill, passed away on Aug. 12, 2016.

Addition planned for Lakeside Fire Hall

State law will allow a proposed addition to the Lakeside Fire Hall, even though the building project doesn’t meet the Lakeside zoning district’s required rear setback of 20 feet.

Smoke stems from 24,000-acre fire

With firefighting efforts winding down on the Bierney Creek Fire near Lakeside, most of the smoke that poured into the Flathead Valley over weekend was coming from the 24,000-acre Copper King Fire burning east of Thompson Falls.

Boy, 3, a hit with chopper crew

Weston Haun really likes helicopters.

Chopper fan

Chopper pilots

Commissioners OK $92 million budget

The Flathead County commissioners last week unanimously approved a $92 million budget and voted to continue a funding mechanism that sets aside about $1 million a year for construction of a new jail.

Crown Guitar Workshop and Festival

Seventh Annual Crown Guitar Workshop and Festival

The Mike Murray Duo (Mike Murray and Chris Krager) were joined by Halladay Quist for their final song, Bury Me in Montana, at the Saturday night, August 27, concert at the Flathead Lake Brewing Company in Bigfork. The concert was the kick off for the Seventh Annual Crown Guitar Workshop and Festival. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Bigfork High School Construction

Whitefish officers shoot bold mountain lion

Whitefish Police shot and killed a full-grown female mountain lion Sunday night after members of a family off Sixth Street reported they were too scared to get out of their car because the cat wouldn’t leave the yard.

DIL 082116 Cover

Parade of Homes Cover

Bigfork Fork

The newly erected Bigfork fork statue catches the afternoon rays in a shady courtyard in Bigfork, on Monday, August 29. The sculpture was designed by Dan Vigil of Vigil Steel. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

How virtual education could be a last-minute lifesaver for your expat child

Bear injures berry picker in Glacier Park

An off-duty employee of Glacier National Park was injured by a bear Saturday evening on the east side of Glacier, according to a park spokesman.

Bigfork music teacher reflects on her journey

Two weeks before Bigfork Schools first day of class in 2009, the future music teacher caught wind of a band teacher job opening.

Critical illnesses are expensive - are you prepared?

Whitefish property owners appeal annexation ruling

A group of property owners along the east shore of Whitefish Lake has appealed a Flathead District Court ruling over annexation to the Montana Supreme Court.

Darrell Ward

Darrell Ward (Photo courtesy of History Channel)

'Ice Road Truckers' star dies in plane crash

MISSOULA — A plane crash in Western Montana killed a star of the History channel reality series "Ice Road Truckers" as he returned home to film a pilot episode of a show about recovering plane wrecks.

Marjorie Mae Stiles Olsen

Catherine Antoinette 'Toni' Balock

Noel 'Tony' Eugene O'Connor

Michael James Holder

Extremist who shot deputy up for parole

On Tuesday or Wednesday, the Montana Board of Pardons and Parole will decide whether or not to release an anti-government extremist serving a life sentence for shooting a Missoula County sheriff’s deputy during a traffic stop in 1992 in the Swan Valley.

Wild Jo's ready to open in Col. Falls

DAYBOOK Aug. 28

Woman foils thief with technology

A woman told the

Top oceanographer joins Flathead Lake station

One of the nation’s pre-eminent oceanographers is joining the faculty of the University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station.

Parade of Homes

Sister's memory lives on at Smith Valley Fire Dept.

LETTER: Corrupt leader available for hire

OK, so is everybody tired of the presidential election nonsense? Let’s just vote for a proven political person with 30 plus years of experience! Hillary all the way! After all she, and her husband, have a proven history of dodging jail and plenty of monetary support from the evil backers in this country.

LETTER: Where is our leadership?

Where is our president when we need him? He is on Martha’s Vineyard off the coast of Massachusetts playing golf, and it is now Tuesday, Aug. 22, and he is still there. All the while more than 100,000 folks are suffering due to their tremendous losses as a result of massive flooding in Louisiana. Over 40,000 homes wrecked. These folks are now homeless. At this time, they have not heard a word of comfort, condolence or courage suggesting help is on the way. The leader of the free world does not care.

LETTER: Logging loss is Democrat victory

“And in 25 years you will see the most destructive forest fires in history.”

LETTER: Gianforte trying to 'buy election'

Multimillionaire Greg Gianforte is a classic example of the age-old adage “buying the election.” He has already put about $1 million of his own money into his campaign and with his very wealthy supporters from Montana and outside our state his chances are very good.

DIL 082816 Cover

DIL 082816

Births, published Aug. 28, 2016

COLUMN: It's a dog's life for Minnesota mayor

More than 100 dogs taken from alleged puppy mill

OPINION: A Democratic call for property tax reform in Montana

As we campaign across our local districts we are fortunate to have had the opportunity to speak with hundreds of citizens about their concerns regarding our community.

Anthony 'Tony' Illich, 84

EDITORIAL: Flathead's dynamic job market

Flathead County has jobs — plenty of them — but unfortunately lots of local employers are finding it hard to find workers, even though the county’s unemployment rate is hovering at 4.6 percent.

Help wanted - everywhere: Flathead Valley labor shortage reaches critical mass

Job Service has 1,089 open jobs; firms scramble to find employees

Vivian Mardell (Garbe) Malson, 89

OPINION: After the shooting stops, it should be time to think

Each terrible shooting is followed by conjecture and the lame efforts of journalists and lawmakers and, of course, the rest of us to question the whys of these occurrences.

OPINION: Report from China: 'A tougher and more authoritarian form of Maoism'

Retired University of Montana Professor Harry Fritz and I recently returned after delivering a series of lectures on the U.S. political system at Nankai University in Tianjin, a city of 12 million people near the Chinese capitol of Beijing.

OPINION: Family Bible doesn't provide shield against bad ideas

Todd Cardin, in the Aug. 21 Daily Inter Lake, while flogging Mr. Zinke with his liberal psychobabble gave away some information about himself and his family.

OPINION: Refugees in America: Laying out the argument why the risks outweigh the rewards

In consideration of all the events that are unfolding in our country and around the world, I believe it is time once again to reconsider refugee resettlement in our state and our local communities.

Roberta 'Bobby' DeVoe, 94

Project pairs health data, preventive care

FOOTBALL: Stokes, Havre steamroll Whitefish

Blue Ponies' RB romps for 281 yards, 3 TDs in 18-6 victory

WHITEFISH — There were only fleeting moments of celebration as Whitefish football took the field for the first time since winning the Class A state championship last November.

VOLLEYBALL: Wildkats flawless at Tip-Off tournament

Glacier sweeps pair at home; Flathead swept after injury

WHITEFISH — Defending Class A state volleyball champion Columbia Falls stormed through the two-day Northwest vs. Southwest Tip-Off event, finishing with a perfect 10-0 record and claiming the tournament title on Saturday.

SOCCER: C-Falls boys, girls roll to wins; Glacier, Flathead open at jamborees

Columbia Falls’ boys and girls posted lopsided shutout victories over Stevensville as the soccer season kicked off for a handful of local schools on Saturday.

CROSS COUNTRY: Glacier boys, girls capture team titles

Wanner of Columbia Falls, Bouma of Flathead individual winners

LIBBY — Glacier snapped up the team titles while Sage Wanner of Columbia Falls and Nicole Bouma of Flathead were individual winners on Saturday at the Libby Invitational cross country meet.

COLUMN: Who's scarier? Republicans or refugees?

A family of six Congolese refugees arrived in Missoula last week to begin their new life far from the Tanzanian refugee camp where they had lived for many years.

Anthony 'Tony' Illich, 84

Anthony ‘Tony’ Illich, 84

Sam Ellman, 84

Vivian Mardell (Garbe) Malson, 89

Vivian Mardell (Garbe) Malson, 89

Roberta 'Bobby' DeVoe, 94

Roberta ‘Bobby’ DeVoe, 94

Whitefish Volleyball

Whitefish junior Cailyn Ross stuffs the ball at the net for a point against Hamilton during the Northwest vs. Southwest Tip-Off  tournament in Whitefish on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Whitefish Football

Whitefish senior Tyler Cote fights off Havre defender Jacob LaBrie as he turns the corner for a large gain during the first quarter on Saturday in Whitefish. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Music teachers award scholarships to top students

The Kalispell Area Music Teachers Association recently awarded eight scholarships to local music students.

Class bells ring on Wednesday

It’s time to put those thinking caps on and pack backpacks with new school supplies because another school year is here. Several schools in the Flathead Valley start classes on Wednesday while West Valley School begins classes on Thursday.

Columbia Falls football

Braxton Reiten of Columbia Falls snares a pass en route to a touchdown against Corvallis Friday night (Chris Peterson photo).

FOOTBALL: Braves stumble in opener

Flathead falls 41-31 to C.M. Russell despite forcing six turnovers

The Flathead Braves couldn’t have dreamed up a better start.

FOOTBALL: Big second quarter sparks Columbia Falls romp

COLUMBIA FALLS — After a slow first quarter, Columbia Falls found the gas pedal for its potent offense, blowing out Corvallis in a 48-14 nonconference football game on Friday night at Satterthwaite Field.

FOOTBALL: Glacier stripes Bengals, 35-7

Wolfpack holds Helena High ground game to 14 yards

HELENA — Glacier showed it has quite a bit of firepower in its new-look offense, running away with a 35-7 Class AA football victory over Helena High on Friday night at Vigilante Stadium.

FOOTBALL: Eureka, Bigfork coast in openers

ST. IGNATIUS — Austyn Sherwood, Cannan Smith and Garrett Gollahan scored two touchdowns each as Eureka leveled St. Ignatius 61-0 on Friday in Class B football action.

VOLLEYBALL: Columbia Falls 6-0 at Tip-Off tournament

WHITEFISH — Columbia Falls and Corvallis were both undefeated during first-day action of the Northwest vs. Southwest Tip-Off volleyball tournament at Whitefish High School.

SOCCER: Libby zaps Stevil; Stillwater draws

LIBBY — Cody Wood assisted on the first score and netted the next two goals to help Libby open the boys soccer season with a 4-0 victory over Stevensville on Friday.

Flathead football

Flathead receiver Seth Adolph gets a block from Austin Demars as he escapes the grasps of C.M. Russell Carter Durnell on a long run during the first quarter at Legends Stadium on Friday, Aug. 26. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Lakeside mural

Price tag grows for Copper King Fire

The Copper King Fire burning near Thompson Falls is now the largest and most expensive wildfire in Montana, but crews reported significant progress Friday after several days of favorable weather.

Pathways, parks at the heart of Kalispell plans

A slower-paced, more people-friendly downtown may be in the future for Kalispell.

Kalispell pedestrian bridge

Big Brothers seeks 50 new volunteers

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flathead County is kicking off a campaign to recruit 50 volunteer mentors to be matched with youths in Flathead County.

Flathead Journal: Historic Tamarack Lodge and Cabins

Interior a bedroom in the Iceberg Cabin at the Historic Tamarack Lodge and Cabins on Thursday, August 18, near Coram (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Randi Tunnell

Bigfork High School band teacher and Bigfork schools music teacher Randi Tunnell plays her guitar in Sliter Park on Friday, Aug. 26.

Help Celebrate and Support Teachers Nationwide During Back-to-School Season [Video]

Helpful hints for keeping tile surfaces gorgeous

BB attack targets man and his shed

The

LETTER: The 'status quo has to go'

One only needs a moment’s casual reading of Bob McClellan’s frequent Inter Lake offerings to sense his love for society and desire for global harmony. His is a voice that emanates from the heart, and he speaks at a time when silence from the masses has no place. Anger must be heard. Peacefully expressed anger. It IS time for “change,” just as it was sloganed eight years ago with the advent of Barack Obama, the consummate sprint runner.

LETTER: Will liberals denounce lying?

I get it. The world is changing. The United States is changing. Capitalism, though successful, is bad. Socialism, though unsuccessful, is good. We are all supposed to accept this change — abortion on demand, gay marriage, transgender bathroom use — as inevitable and shut up.

LETTER: Celebrating the National Park Service centennial

On Thursday we celebrated the centennial of the National Park Service. The celebration is as much a reflection on the importance the national park system has played in our nation’s heritage as it is an opportunity to look forward to the next 100 years. As we take that look, we must do everything we can to foster the next generation in becoming outstanding stewards and advocates for Glacier National Park and prepare them for the future challenges of protecting its natural resources, celebrating its cultural legacy, and providing for outstanding visitor experiences.

Commissioners OK Bigfork green-box fee

The Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday unanimously approved a resolution creating a special fee district for the new green-box garbage collection site in Bigfork.

Preserving parks for next 100 years

After serving as president, Theodore Roosevelt exhorted:

FOOTBALL: Braves set for breakthrough season

Senior QB, WRs gunning to complete rebuild with state title 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

On the first day of football camp a year ago Flathead coach Kyle Samson, himself a former quarterback, went out of his way to gush about his new signal caller, talking up a kid who’d never played a varsity snap.

FOOTBALL: Glacier has speed to burn

Key players switch roles as Wolfpack looks to continue Class AA football success 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

On the outside, Glacier football looks a lot different in 2016.

FOOTBALL: 'Cats trying to take title from defending champs

Northwestern A returns strong, deep group of teams 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

The Northwestern A conference sent three of its four teams to the Class A state football playoffs last season, including the eventual state champion in Whitefish.

FOOTBALL: Bigfork's reign in District 7B to be tested

Eureka, Thompson Falls aiming to dethrone 7-time defending champs 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

The stars seem to be aligning for Eureka football.

GOLF: Whitefish girls win third straight tournament

RONAN — Whitefish had four girls place in the top six which helped the Bulldogs take the team title at the Columbia Falls Invitational golf tournament on Thursday afternoon at Mission Mountain Country Club.

EDITORIAL: Food rules could choke businesses

There’s good news and bad news as the federal Food Safety Modernization Act begins taking effect next month.

OPINION: Preserving parks for next 100 years

After serving as president, Theodore Roosevelt exhorted:

Kathryn Ann Karlberg, 66

Kathryn Ann Karlberg, 66, of Missoula, died on Monday, Aug. 22, 2016, at St. Patrick Hospital of complications related to her recent diagnosis of acute leukemia.

Elizabeth 'Liz' Chambers-Paplinski, 83

Elizabeth “Liz” Chambers-Paplinski, 83, of Walla Walla, Washington, passed away peacefully Aug. 19, 2016, with her family in Bigfork.

Fair rodeo

Attendance, revenue up for fair

Good weather, a sold-out country western concert and strong attendance combined to make the Northwest Montana Fair “an overall success,” Fairgrounds Manager Mark Campbell said.

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Glacier High School freshmen Austin Blair, left, and Hunter Karlstad look for their classes during the jamboree at the school on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Jewell visit

Jewell

Jewell Glacier Park

Jewell Hidden Lake Trail

Jewell tour

Kalispell clears out transient camps at Lawrence Park

Transient camps that at one time had several dozen residents are being cleared out in and around Kalispell’s Lawrence Park.

Flathead football

Flathead quarterback Bridger Johnson, front, sits with his receivers Seth Adolph, left, and James Flannigan at Legends Stadium on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Sally Jewell

Unemployment

A vehicle going through the drive-thru at Taco Bell in Kalispell on Thursday, August 25. The lobby is currently closed due to understaffing. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Fall entertaining forecast: cozy, comfortable and outdoors

Glacier Park, climate change in spotlight

Interior secretary visits for agency centennial

Celebrating the National Park Service’s 100th birthday Thursday, U.S. Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell led a procession of government officials, conservationists and local media through Glacier National Park, focusing her comments on the impacts of climate change in one of the county’s most visible bellwethers for the issue.

Back to School

Chelsea Lefcourt staples up a welcome message for students on Wednesday, August 24, at Muldown Elementary in Whitefish. School start on August 31. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Smith Valley Fire Department displays challenge coin

Fire Chief D.C. Haas of the Smith Valley Fire Department with the commemorative plaque they made to display a challenge coin given to him by the sister of Tina DeLong-Griswold who was killed in November of 2009. Haas said he took the coin and the information sheet to Michael’s and had it framed. It is now proudly on display in their community room at the Smith Valley Fire Station. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Marcy Otten

Portrait of Marcy Otten, the new director of North West Montana Head Start, on Wednesday, Aug. 24, in Kalispell.

Transient camp near Lawrence Park

Transient camp

From the mountains to the seashore, explore the Lone Star State's nationally recognized sites

Whitefish looks at wastewater treatment plans

The city of Whitefish will hold an informational meeting at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 29, to provide information about the proposed new wastewater treatment facilities recommended in a draft preliminary engineering report.

A four-point plan for joint health

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Back to School Cover

Is your teen ignoring you or is it hearing loss?

Blame Forest Service for fire

If the Forest Service had auctioned off (not tried to sell to low-ball bidder, or tied it up in litigation, i.e., stymied sale by “abuse of the legal system” by environmental groups and the EPA itself) the 700 acres of trees in the Snider area that were at the START of the Copper King Fire THREE weeks ago (EAST of Thompson River) could have been in the stage of re-planting, instead of being burned to cinder.

The Park Service centennial, and the upside of crowds

Annual guitar festival begins Sunday in Bigfork

Sound of Crown

It’s been a summer of music, theater, art and all things warm, happy and creative. Even as we look forward to fall, there’s one last week of inspired performances to help us savor the final moments of the summer season.

This Week in the Flathead | Aug. 25-31

Gianforte for governor

I am fully behind Greg Gianforte for governor. We sadly and urgently need to unseat current Gov. Bullock. I have talked with Gianforte several times, but feels he likely needs more TRUTHFUL information on why neither the water compact nor the hugely embellished, over-riding Tester bill MUST NOT BE ALLOWED PASSAGE. Montana candidates, as well as current legislators, including at federal level, have been extensively propagandized and misinformed by well-financed compact proponents.

Project aims to fix slumping county road

Flathead County is moving and rebuilding a section of Columbia Falls Stage Road to stabilize a recurring slump.

VOLLEYBALL: Reloaded Flathead raring to go

Flathead, Glacier both sporting revamped lineups as season tips CLASS AA PREVIEW

The Flathead girls were a few points away from a berth in the championship game at last year’s Class AA state volleyball tournament in Bozeman.

COLUMN: Glacier looks to continue unprecedented success

Even as the world continually changes, some things remain the same.

Kids with bat mistake car for ball

Scott Alan Norman

Jim King, 81

Jim King, 81, was born in Kalispell Oct. 11, 1934, and died at home in Whitefish after a brief bout with cancer on Aug. 20, 2016.

Sound of Crown

Dweezil Zappa plays at the Crown of the Continent Guitar Festival in 2014 in Bigfork.

Bierney Creek Fire

'Strong firefight' corrals fire near Lakeside

Hotshots head from one fire to the next

Fire crews transitioned from pushing back flames to moving into the interior of the 60-acre Bierney Creek Fire Wednesday afternoon as they soaked hot spots and attacked smaller fires that broke out outside of the fire’s perimeter.

Tribal Health gets Medicaid authority

Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal Health now can make Medicaid eligibility determinations for tribal health recipients.

Kayak academy

Youths learn kayak skills at special academy

A Michigan transplant to Northwest Montana, Paul Moffatt said it was “trial by fire” when he first started learning to kayak.

National Park Service centennial

A soft sunrise over Glacier National Park on Saturday, August 20, as seen from near Logan Pass. Today the National Park Service centennial. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

As summer wanes, fall hunting season beckons

I love summer. I love fishing with my boat. I don’t know what is more challenging — catching fish or trying to understand my electronic fish-finder.

What to look for when buying a garage door for your home

Weather helps slow Lakeside fire growth

The Bierney Creek Fire west of Lakeside slowed substantially after the new wildfire’s wind-driven flames chewed through 80 acres of residential forest Monday afternoon and evening.

Lakeside fire still mostly calm

Fire crews reported another night of relative calm at the 80-acre Bierney Creek Fire burning about two miles west of Lakeside.

Marjorie Mae Stiles Olsen, 91

Marjorie Mae Stiles Olsen, 91 ½, “passed from her earthly home to her heavenly home” on Aug. 20, 2016.

Catherine Antoinette 'Toni' Balock, 86

Catherine Antoinette “Toni” Balock was born in Miles City on Nov. 4, 1929.

Lauren Renee (Swallow) Tecca

Lauren Renee (Swallow) Tecca, 26

Lauren Renee Swallow was born on July 24, 1990, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center to Myron and Terrilyn Swallow. She was a bright and funny child, always making her family laugh. She was artistic and enjoyed drawing, flower arranging and various handwork. Lauren was very entrepreneurial. As a teenager, she sold sunflower bouquets at the Kalispell Farmers Market and later crocheted hats. Lauren loved animals; she started breeding and selling Corgi puppies and eventually setters. She poured over pedigrees, health records and bloodlines until she was satisfied with her choice.

Noel 'Tony' Eugene O'Connor, 82

Noel “Tony” Eugene O’Connor, 82, beloved husband and friend, “passed into the arms of Jesus” on Friday, Aug. 19, 2016.

Flathead judge rejects initiative ballot request

A Flathead District Court judge on Tuesday denied a request to add an anti-marijuana initiative to the November ballot, finding the initiative sponsor failed to gather enough petition signatures for the measure.

Back to School

Upgrade your backyard with a DIY outdoor fireplace

How to use color psychology when painting your home

5 simple tips to refresh 'brown bag' lunches

College president honored with regional award

Flathead Valley Community College President Jane Karas has been recognized as one of the leading chief executive officers in the West for her work at the college.

FOOTBALL: Osweiler gets middling Madden 17 rating

EA Sports makes Flathead grad NFL’s 28th-best QB

The folks at EA Sports aren’t as high on Brock Osweiler as many around his new team may be.

GOLF: Whitefish girls top tough field in Missoula

Hileman twins finish in top 5 to lead ’Dogs

MISSOULA — Twin sisters Holly and Hayley Hileman both finished in the top five and the Whitefish girls bested a field full of Class AA schools to win the Missoula County Invitational tournament that concluded Tuesday at Canyon River Golf Club.

Whitefish's Hayley Hileman

Whitefish golfer Hayley Hileman tees off at Meadow Lake Golf Club in Columbia Falls in this file photo. (Whitefish Pilot)

Jane Karas

Property taxes going up again this year

County plans to add 14 employees

Flathead County is on track to adopt a final budget that raises property taxes by 3.2 percent and increases the county’s workforce by 14 full-time employees.

Shelter offers deals on dog adoption

Influx of rescued dogs could strain capacity

A day after 15 dogs were removed from an Evergreen mobile home that had scores of animals ranging from exotic birds to rabbits, The Flathead County Animal Shelter is working to free up space by waiving adoption fees for six dogs.

21,045-acre fire sends smoke to Flathead Valley

Fire officials estimated the size of the Copper King Fire at 21,045 acres Monday, but reported that growth occurred mainly Sunday and Monday, and the fire east of Thompson Falls settled down substantially Tuesday with cooler weather and a drop in wind.

Couple escape flames lapping at their doorstep

Dan Kruger didn’t even have time to put on shoes before fleeing the flames of the Bierney Creek Fire, which came within five feet of his Lakeside home by the time he got out Monday afternoon.

Bierney Creek deck

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A helicopter drops a bucket of water on the Bierney Creek Fire in Lakeside on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Spectators watch helicopters fill buckets in Flathead Lake at the Marina in Lakeside on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Tips for last-minute family travel

Dogs at the Flathead County Animal Shelter

Animal Control Officer Niki Sevesind picks up one of the small dogs rescued from the electrical fire while on her rounds on Tuesday morning, August 23 at the Flathead County Animal Shelter. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Dogs at the county animal shelter

No headline

Powerful, gusting winds fanned the flames of a new wildfire in a thickly wooded residential area west of Lakeside on Monday, pushing the fire across 80 acres and threatening an estimated 75 to 100 structures within a half-mile of the fire.

Tester, Daines, Zinke taking down state

By Elaine Willman

Firefighters, weather slow Lakeside fire

The Bierney Creek Fire west of Lakeside slowed substantially after the new wildfire’s wind-driven flames chewed through 80 acres of residential forest Monday afternoon and evening.

Bierney Creek Fire

Essex fire

Fire destroys family's home in Essex

The Essex home of Fred and Kathy Fekete was destroyed by fire late Monday afternoon.

5 reasons to make a career in fitness

Three DIY ways to improve your home WiFi

Chief lauds driver of runaway truck

When a dump truck filled with gravel lost the ability to brake Saturday, its driver used a series of trees to avoid hitting cars and eventually came to a stop after running into a house.

Hilemans, Young help Whitefish girls lead golf tourney

MISSOULA — Holly Hileman shot 89 and Hayley Hileman and Gracie Young both carded 91s to help the Whitefish girls take the team lead at the Missoula County Invitational golf tournament on Monday afternoon at the Missoula Country Club.

Lakeside man dies from bee sting

A Lakeside man died from an allergic reaction to a bee sting Sunday evening. After getting stung on the lip, the 66-year-old man called 911 for help.

Lakeside fire

Fire near Lakeside grows to 80 acres

Powerful, gusting winds fanned the flames of a new wildfire in a thickly wooded residential area west of Lakeside on Monday, pushing the flames through 80 acres and threatening an estimated 75 to 100 structures within a half-mile of the fire’s perimeter.

Hearing set Wednesday over fees for Bigfork boxes

A public hearing for the Bigfork special district that will collect fees for the green-box collection site will be held at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday at the Flathead County commissioner chambers in the Courthouse.

Telina Mae Taber, 15 months

Avis Bernice DeLong, 97

Avis Bernice DeLong, longtime Flathead Valley resident, passed away Aug. 15, 2016, in Las Vegas at the home of her son James.

Robert A. “Bob” Richardson, 83

Col. Falls Stage Road closed for construction

Beginning Tuesday, the Flathead County Road Department will construct a new section of road on Columbia Falls Stage Road.

Hearing is Wednesday on Bigfork green-box fees

A public hearing for the Bigfork special district that will collect fees for the green-box collection site will be held at 10:45 a.m. Wednesday at the Flathead County commissioner chambers in the Courthouse.

Bright ideas to help working women find work-life balance

Dozens of birds, dogs seized after fire

From exotic birds to geckos, more than 100 animals were removed Monday from a Kings Way home in Evergreen after a fire drew attention to the unhealthy conditions the pets were living in.

Festival to help Whitefish Trail

The Whitefish Trail Hootenanny Music Festival will feature three acclaimed bands to at the annual fundraising event on Friday, Aug. 26.

Electrical fire leads to animal rescue

Feeding grizzlies shut down Glacier's Highline Trail

A mountain goat provided a meal for a female grizzly and a pair of cubs in Glacier National Park, but the proximity of the carcass to the Highline Trail has temporarily shut down the popular cliffside path near Logan Pass.

Smoke at Somers

Copper King Fire

Fire's growth forces evacuations

The fast-growing Copper King Fire east of Thompson Falls forced the evacuations of at least 20 structures early Monday morning, with additional residents on pre-evacuation notice.

Protecting your family from Zika: How to keep biting insects at bay this summer

Retired park leader reflects on career

Phillip Iversen is no stranger to controversy, and the former Glacier National Park superintendent still remembers the full-page ad in the Hungry Horse News that simply read, “Iversen Must Go” after he proposed banning snowmobiles in the park.

At Home August Cover

Field Guide Cover

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Smoke, ash from Thompson Falls fire reach Flathead

After a fire near Thompson Falls doubled its size on Sunday, smoke poured into the Flathead Valley, particularly shrouding the Flathead Lake area.

10 packing hacks to streamline your move

How technology is simplifying relief of chronic pain

Decisions ahead for school voters

About 40,000 voters have the power to decide the fate of two 20-year bond issues totaling more than $54 million for Kalispell Public Schools.

Learn more about the bond request

The public is invited to learn more about Kalispell Public Schools bond requests totaling more than $54 million.

Fair's market stock sale totals $377,231

The 2016 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo market stock sale grossed $377,230.50 Saturday as local 4-H and FFA members bid farewell to their steers, hogs and lambs.

Construction projects ahead for Glacier Park

Fall construction projects begin next month in Glacier National Park.

Daybook 2016

Truck collides with house; no one hurt

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Births, published Aug. 21, 2016

OPINION: Does America really have two political parties?

The Republican and Democratic parties say their political philosophies are different. But are they? This was true for the most part up to the 1930s.

OPINION: Time for Zinke to withdraw endorsement of Trump

Mr. Zinke, in our family safe rests a weathered, leather-bound pocket Bible, copyright 1836. A forefather of my wife picked this Bible up from a North Carolina battlefield and carried it for the remainder of the Civil War. Passed father to son, this Bible was subsequently carried through two world wars. I will not soon forget my father-in-law’s trembling hands the afternoon he rediscovered this Bible while cleaning a storage shed.

COLUMN: A primer for Republicans on how to lose elections

OPINION: City needs to press for real solutions to hospital growth

I live on Sunnyview Lane, one house back from the corner of Sunnyview and Glacier View Drive. The hospital’s growth has had direct negative impact on me and I expect the glass front of the new hospital addition to shed light on my neighbors and my homes 24/7. The hospital has not been a good neighbor to those of us who live by it.

OPINION: Where is America really going as a nation?

As somebody who has been on this planet for almost 77 years, I have never seen in my lifetime the chaotic mess that we have today in our political system.

New federal law affects food manufacturers - Compliance requires rigorous hazard control plan, specialized training

At Home August

Field Guide

2016 Northwest Montana fair results

Events get rocky during alleged attack

Joyce Rae (Joy, Vlasak) Kinshella, 79

Randy L. Glantz, 67

Alice Engel, 88

Tammey Jo (Stremel) Blinco , 56

Frank Ernest Pancoast, 68

Showmanship test for champions - Youths show their skills on different animals

FEATURED: Working towards Tokyo

Back from Rio, Whitefish rugby star reflects on Olympic experience

Nicole Heavirland was on the sidelines for all six of the United States’ women’s rugby sevens matches in Rio de Janeiro.

Whitefish Olympian Nicole Heavirland

Whitefish native Nicole Heavirland relaxes after returning from the Rio Olympic Games where she was part of the United States' rugby sevens team that finished fifth. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

RODEO: Huge bull ride closes exciting Fair PRCA Rodeo

New Mexico cowboy scores 90 1/2-point bull ride on final night

There’s something to be said for grabbing the bull by its horns. Or at least holding on by the seat of your pants.

Fugitive caught after six-hour chase

Alice Engel, 88

Alice Engel 

Frank Ernest Pancoast, 68

100 - Events mark Park Service centennial

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Ringman Andy Lybeck takes a bid during the 4-H and FFA Market Livestock Sale at the Northwest Montana Fair on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Sam Plummer shows his red-ribbon lamb during the 4-H and FFA Market Livestock Sale at the Northwest Montana Fair on Saturday. Murdoch's purchased the lamb for $7.75 per pound. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Garrett Tutvedt shows his Reserve Grand Champion steer during the 4-H and FFA Market Livestock Sale at the Northwest Montana Fair on Saturday. Super One purchased the steer for $4.50 a pound. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Robert 'Bob' William Howard, 98

RODEO: Cowboys turn tables on day two

After Thursday shutout, four post scoring bull rides Friday

Bull rider Colten Jesse made the long trek from Konawa, Oklahoma to Kalispell just for the Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo.

NW Montana Fair Rodeo

Choteau cowboy Colter Heckman leans back as Best Bet bucks during the saddle bronc at the Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana Coffee Traders

Meagan Arseneau, the production manager and hazard analysis critical control point coordinator for Montana Coffee Traders, unloads beans from the roaster into a cooling tray at the Montana Coffee Traders Roastery on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Initiative backer makes bid for court intervention

The lead sponsor of an anti-marijuana ballot initiative appeared in Flathead District Court on Friday to request that the measure be placed on the November ballot in Montana, alleging that Flathead County election officials lost thousands of petition signatures in support of Initiative 176.

Popular Yellowstone River closes after thousands of fish die

BILLINGS — Montana wildlife officials indefinitely closed a 183-mile stretch of the Yellowstone River and hundreds of miles of other waterways Friday, barring all fishing, rafting and other activities to prevent the spread of a parasite believed to have killed tens of thousands of fish.

High winds knock down power lines

Flathead Electric Cooperative reported roughly 1,000 people lost electricity Thursday night when a dozen or so power lines were downed during the night’s windstorm. According to the National Weather Service, wind gust speeds hit 57 mph. Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry said there were no major emergencies caused by the storm.

Last logs roll through Columbia Falls mills

Hours after Weyerhaeuser Co. officials told plywood workers the mill was closing Thursday — a day earlier than expected — a hard hat left behind rested on a fence outside the mill.

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Sarah Johnson of the Country Cousins and Glacier View 4-H Clubs shows a steer during the round robin tournament at the Northwest Montana Fair on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kaitlyn May laughs as she shows a goat during the round robin contest for the Northwest Montana Fair on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Bailey Lake shows a sheep during the round robin contest of the Northwest Montana Fair on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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From cliff jumping to paddleboarding: What it's like to spend a weekend in Maine

A Stormy Affair at the Northwest Montana Fair

Brett McCrumb of Polson holds his grandson Kane McCrumb, 2, on his shoulders as they pause to listen as John Dunnigan performs at the Northwest Montana Fair on Thursday night, August 18, at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Northwest Montana Fair Parade

Madison Lovett, 18, of Kalispell Parks and Rec waves to a float in the Northwest Montana Fair Parade on Friday morning, August 19, in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

OPINION: Why candidate is turning over salary to scholarships

It’s been less than a year since I first announced a potential run for governor of the great state of Montana. Since that time, I’ve driven over 46,000 miles across the state, meeting with Montanans in cafes from Ekalaka to Eureka and seeing my own bed only once or twice a week. One of the greatest joys has been staying with folks in their homes, rather than staying in hotels, because it has allowed me to really connect with families all across the state.

LETTERS: Friday, August 19, 2016

OPINION: Tester, Daines, Zinke taking down state

The constitutional republic is founded upon a balance of power between the federal government and the collective 50 states, but our governmental system has gone upside down. We now have a behemoth federal government run by a king, with continuous assistance from his princes—federal senators and congressmen.

5 ideas for celebrating grandparents and forging deeper bonds with family

Teens engage in 'salon for steer'

FITTING CONTEST

A crowd of teenagers gathered around four muddy steers at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo on Thursday morning and got to work.

Beaver Creek Landscape project gets initial OK

The Flathead National Forest has released its draft decision notice for the proposed Beaver Creek Landscape Restoration Project in the Swan Lake Ranger District.

Carpenter nails final ride of first night

Kalispell barrel racer overcomes poor draw with fast performance

Last one out, but the second fastest in.

COLUMN: Crash landing at mutton busting

Standing outside the wind-swept rodeo arena at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Thursday night, a joke kept popping into my head.

A stinky situation for wounded cat

A cat named Stinky was taken to the animal hospital after allegedly being shot in the eye by a pellet gun on Mountain Avenue in Columbia Falls. The alleged shooter told the

Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo

Teddy Athan holds on as Mile Away bucks during the bareback riding at the Northwest Montana Fair Rodeo on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Joyce Rae (Joy, Vlasak) Kinshella, 79

Joyce Rae (Joy, Vlasak) Kinshella passed Aug. 10, 2016, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell, after a short stay due to complications of past cancer treatments.

Jeffrey Scott Sullivan, 60

Jeffrey Scott Sullivan, 60, passed away Aug. 12, 2016, at his home in Bigfork, due to complications from cancer.

Economic group hires new leader

Jerry Meerkatz has been appointed as the new president/chief executive officer for Montana West Economic Development in Kalispell.

Weyerhaeuser closing

End of an era for C. Falls mills

The last logs rolled through the Weyerhaeuser Co. plywood and lumber mills in Columbia Falls Thursday, marking an unfortunate end to a long run for timber in the North Valley city.

Mud Man Drive-Thru Eatery

Detail of a Mud Man burger made with local beef and served with french fries for $7. The burger comes with a special sauce, cheese, and chili. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

MudMan

Kenzie Kinney of Murrieta, Calif., makes coffee at the MudMan drive-thru eatery on Thursday morning, Aug. 18, off of U.S. 93 in Happy Valley. Proceeds from sales are use to fund Potter’s Field Ministry missions work internationally and their local work on the Blackfeet Reservation in Browning.

Bigfork man pleads not guilty to sex assault

A 71-year-old Bigfork man has denied sexually assaulting a 6-year-old girl.

Swan Mountain selected for Glacier trail rides

The National Park Service announced Thursday it has selected Swan Mountain Outfitters Glacier Division as the concessioner for guided interpretive horseback trail rides and pack animal services in Glacier National Park.

Is morning sickness impacting your pregnancy?

Foot care tips to keep vacationers on the go

Stay pool-cool without chlorine: There's a healthy alternative

Top tips for healthy hydration: You're probably missing this key ingredient

Big winds could produce big waves on Flathead Lake

Those spending their Thursday boating on Flathead Lake or hiking in the mountains should prepare for potentially severe weather moving into Northwest Montana this evening.

5 money tips every teen should know

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Trace Adkins performs to a sold-out crowd at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Trace Adkins performs to a sold-out crowd at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kassie Fisher and Bucky Nelson dance as Trace Adkins performs at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Beef Fitting

Ocala Muth of the Rowdy Ropers 4-H Club washes the face of a steer during the 4-H and Future Farmers of America Beef Fitting Contest during the Northwest Montana Fair on Thursday. 

Police warn of kidnapping phone scam

The Kalispell Police Department has issued a warning that a telephone scam is active in the valley after receiving reports from victims who got phone calls from unknown people alleging a family member had been kidnapped followed by a ransom demand.

LETTERS: Thursday, August 18, 2016

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Back to School 16 Cover

Parent snack hacks to fight after-school hunger

6 tips to protect your children from hidden dangers around the home

Your child's school is nut-fee. Now what?

This Week in the Flathead | Aug. 18-24

Sunti World Art Gallery welcomes artists in residence

Mixing culture and art

The Sunti World Art Gallery has been bringing art by the world’s masters to Whitefish for about a year. This summer, the gallery welcomed two of those creators as artists in residence.

Four finalists named for Whitefish city manager job

The city of Whitefish has narrowed its list of prospects to four finalists for City Manager Chuck Stearns’ replacement.

Dawson Community College baseball

NW Montana Fair & Rodeo schedule

Fair rodeo begins without familiar face

Field loaded with talent despite absence of West Glacier’s Beau Hill

The crop of cowboys and cowgirls headed to this year’s Northwest Montana Fair PRCA Rodeo is as strong it’s ever been, but there’s one marquee name that’s nowhere to be found.

GOLF: Polson, Whitefish first at Northwest A Kickoff

WHITEFISH — Carson McDaniel shot an even par 72 to earn medalist honors and lead Polson’s boys to a comfortable win at the Northwest A Kickoff tournament at Whitefish Lake Golf Club on Wednesday.

BRIEFS: Twins trio headed east; Lady Griz add Kalispell native to staff

GLENDIVE — Three Glacier Twins are heading east to continue their baseball careers, committing to play for the Dawson Community College Buccaneers, the school announced Monday.

Woman reports suspicious phone calls

A woman told the

Philis D. Adams, 94

Philis D. Adams 94, passed away Aug.15, 2016, at 12:30 p.m. at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.

Sidewalks at last for Three Mile Drive

When construction workers across the “T” intersection from her home on Garland Street told her they were finally putting in a sidewalk along Three Mile Drive, Donetta Antonovich was ecstatic.

Northwest Montana Fair: Floriculture

Bill McClaren and LeAna Sacrison judge entries in the Floriculture Barn at the Northwest Montana Fair on Wednesday morning. McClaren has been judging for 40 years. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Imagination blooms in floral show

A room filled with flowers is tucked away from the busier world of animals, carnival rides and hand-dipped corn dogs at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Bigfork bridge options debated

Repair options have been narrowed for the historic Swan River Bridge in Bigfork, but the favored route comes with the largest price tag.

Anti-marijuana group presses to add initiative to ballot

HELENA — Sponsors of an anti-marijuana initiative that failed to qualify for November’s ballot are claiming they submitted enough signatures to put the measure before the voters, but that thousands of names were lost or wrongly rejected by county officials.

Fair fun unfolds all week long

It’s fair week in the Flathead, and what a great way to celebrate the pinnacle of summer. If you haven’t made plans yet to attend the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo, what are you waiting for? Get your rodeo and demolition derby tickets nailed down and head to the fairgrounds for a bastion of old-fashioned fun.

Whitefish's Brendan Buls

Whitefish sophomore Brendan Buls drives his tee shot on the 14th hole of the North Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the Northwest A Kickoff tournament on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Whitefish's Hayley Hileman

Hayley Hileman tees off on the 10th hole at the Whitefish Lake Golf Club's North Course during the Northwest A Kickoff golf tournament on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

5 ways to encourage handwriting this school year

Good season for hunters predicted

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is expecting a good year for big-game hunters in Northwest Montana, particularly those planning on bagging a white-tailed deer or an elk this season.

It's a full moon: fear or fever?

Like many anglers, I am always working on that “edge,” where I am in a constant state of anticipation of the next “killer day” of fishing.

7 Things You Probably Didn't Know About Kiwifruit

Profile: Phillip Iversen

Courtesy photo of Phillip Iversen welcoming Lady Bird Johnson to Montana. 

Monday Profile: Phillip Iversen

Phillip Iversen at his home in Kalispell with his book "The Centennial of a Great Idea: Recalling a Lifetime of Experiences in the National Park Service" on Aug. 16.

Kalispell Police to try out body cameras

The Kalispell City Council on Monday hesitantly set aside $30,000 for a trial run to outfit police officers with body cameras.

Back to School 16

You're Free! Five Great Ideas for Repurposing Kids' Bedrooms

Reservoir cabin open for rental

Starting today, the Flathead National Forest will begin accepting reservations for the Anna Creek Cabin, the forest’s first rental cabin in the Hungry Horse Reservoir area.

Seniors: 5 simple secrets for overcoming gym intimidation

No parking on Main Street during parade

There will be no parking on Main Street in Kalispell on Friday morning during the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Parade.

Huckleberry shakes a time-honored treat

Decadent, creamy soft-serve ice cream swirled with crushed huckleberries is one of the Northwest Montana Fair’s most iconic treats, and there’s only one place to get it.

Scandinavian delicacies make fair debut

Aebelskivers, lefse and Swedish pancakes — oh, my.

Today, Aug. 17, at the fair

FAIR OFFICIALLY OPENS

Council approves $68 million budget

The Kalispell City Council on Monday approved an overall budget plan of more than $68 million for 2017.

Council diary

A summary of city council actions across the Flathead Valley on Monday night:

Rad Ride repeat planned on Aug. 27

For many people, a bike ride is a way to get some cardio in after work or to get from one point to another. For Steve Rademaker, it was a lifestyle — even through his cancer treatments until he eventually died from the disease.

Jaymee I. Johnson, 52

Jaymee I. Johnson, 52, died peacefully in her sleep Friday, Aug. 13, 2016, unexpectedly in the comfort of her home.

Robert B. Ekblad, 86

Robert B. Ekblad died peacefully Aug. 13, 2016, at Polson Health and Rehabilitation Center in Polson.

Raymond R. Hofer, 96

Raymond R. Hofer, 96, of Columbia Falls, passed away on Aug. 10, 2016, of natural causes.

Harold H. Turner, 87

After living a joyous, love-filled life, Harold H. Turner “went home to heaven” Friday, Aug. 12, 2016. He spent 87 years as a beloved son and brother, husband, dad, “papa” and friend.

Janet Marie Marvin Noble, 71

My beautiful wife Janet’s journey here on Earth ended on July 21, 2016, so she could start a new and wonderful journey. Janet fought long and hard and never gave up. She never complained, she never asked, “Why me?” and she always said somebody had it worse than she did. That’s the kind of person Janet was. Janet was so strong, courageous and loving. Janet was very special.

LAW ROUNDUP: Kayak found with no occupant

The

Scandinavian delicacies make fair debut

Emy Amy, left, and Mette Cephers stand in front of the Scandinavian Baking Company and Sons of Norway booth at the Northwest Montana Fair on Tuesday. They will make aebelskievers, Swedish pancakes and lefse. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

Huckleberry shakes a time-honored treat

Diana Hinzmann brings a pair of huckleberry shakes to a customer at the Bigfork Ladies Service Club booth at the Northwest Montana Fair on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Rad Ride repeat planned on Aug. 27

From left, Kip Smith, Tony Patterson, Steve Rademaker and Pam Roberts pause on a bike trip in Glacier National Park. (Photo courtesy of Susie Rademaker)

Reservoir cabin open for rental

Starting today, the Anna Creek Cabin near Hungry Horse Reservoir will be available for public rental. (U.S. Forest Service photo)

This Week in the Flathead: Artist in Residence at Sunti World Art

Detail of Sarawut Kanpairee painting outside the Sunti World Art Gallery on Thursday, August 11, in Whitefish. 

Jaymee I. Johnson, 52

Robert B. Ekblad, 86

Raymond R. Hofer, 96

Harold H. Turner, 87

Janet Marie Marvin Noble, 71

A+ ideas for supporting classroom learning

Lots of life left in senior pets

LETTERS: Tuesday, August 16, 2016

A look into Duchenne muscular dystrophy

In baseball, overuse injuries plaguing more young athletes

Back to school tips: 4 ways to support local teachers this year

Log trucks hauling on both sides of reservoir

Log hauling on the west-side Hungry Horse Reservoir Road No. 895 has started from the Heinrude area (milepost 36) to U.S. 2 in Hungry Horse.

Flathead, Glacier golfers well off the pace at Great Falls Invitational

GREAT FALLS — Golfers from Flathead and Glacier are well of the pace in the season-opening Great Falls Invitational on Monday at Meadow Lark Country Club.

Man reports motorcycle theft

Meeting looks at Bigfork bridge options

After months of planning, the Montana Department of Transportation will meet with people in Bigfork Tuesday to present options to restore or rebuild the Swan River Bridge.

Hearing on Happy Valley casino postponed

A public hearing for a tavern and casino planned off U.S. 93 near Happy Valley has been rescheduled for the Flathead County Board of Adjustment’s Sept. 6 meeting.

Construction on Three Mile

Sidewalk construction has begun on Three Mile Drive in Kalispell on Monday, August 15. The construction is making residents who have seen students walking to Kalispell Middle School without a sidewalk for years very happy. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Northwest Montana State Fair

Skyler Farnes, 17, of Kalispell, making a poster for his steer “Mister” on Monday afternoon, August 15, at the Northwest Montana State Fair. Mister is a Black Angus/Hereford crossed will compete in showmanship and market class. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Three Mile Drive sidewalks

Hay-bale fire

Burning bales: Firefighting efforts span two days

Firefighting efforts were winding down Monday at a hay-bale fire that had burned since Sunday morning near Somers.

Sun Road repair work starts: Expect delays

Even during the height of summer, the impacts of wintertime avalanches that plague Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road will be felt by motorists traveling the busy scenic thoroughfare for the remainder of the summer.

Simple ways to add curb appeal and character to your home

Steps to keep your feet looking and feeling their youngest

Irrigators to appeal water-compact ruling

Following last month’s decision by a Lake County district judge that upheld most of the state-ratified water compact with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, the group of irrigators challenging the water-rights agreement has decided to appeal to the Montana Supreme Court.

Sunset rays

Rays of light break through the clouds near sunset on Sunday, August 14, north of Whitefish in the Flathead National Forest. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

FJ August 2016 Cover

FJ August 2016

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5 consejos para aprovechar al máximo el tiempo en familia durante el nuevo curso escolar

¿Tiene un nuevo nieto o nieta? Contribuya al bienestar del bebé y la mamá

New grandbaby? Learn how to help baby and mom thrive

5 back-to-school tips to maximize family time

Kalispell 4-H member shows off heifer

Fourteen-year-old Garrett Jewett may be one of the first Kalispell 4-Her’s to be selected to receive a calf through the Northern International Livestock Exposition Heifer Program.

Lake County finds more than $100,000 in back taxes

An investigation by Lake County officials found a handful of properties that had not been properly assessed by the Montana Department of Revenue for a number of years. Thus far more than $160,000 in revenue has been found, county officials said.

Kalispell City Council to vote on 2017 budget

Tonight, Kalispell City Council will vote on its roughly $68,000,000 budget plan for the 2017 fiscal year.

Whitefish mulls zone change for outfitters

The Whitefish City Council tonight will consider a compromise to an earlier request to allow recreational guides and outfitters as a permitted use in the city’s secondary business zone along U.S. 93 S.

Couple caught 'rolling in the grass'

Man released from life sentence for murder sues state for $200,000

A Lake County man released in 2014 by the Montana Supreme Court from a life sentence for deliberate homicide has sued the state of Montana for $200,000 in punitive damages for his alleged wrongful conviction.

Hay bales catch fire

Smoke fills the air after 700 hay bales caught on fire on Lower Valley Road on Sunday morning. Nobody was injured and no structures were damaged during the fire. Somers Volunteer Fire Department, South Kalispell Fire Department, Bigfork Fire Department, and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation responded to the fire.

Hay Fire

Smoke fills the air after 700 hay bales caught on fire on Lower Valley Road on Sunday morning. 

Fair 2016

LETTER: Rising costs of Whitefish city hall raise doubts

Well, I read in the paper that here we go again with needing more money for “unexpected” construction costs for the new Whitefish city hall. Really? I have to think that all the extras are from a plan to allow it to pass on a non-realistic bid and knowing future problems existed. Auditing mistakes were blamed for the first $1 million cost overrun. Really? Now contamination for another $150,000? Seems proper planning, engineering, cost estimation, bidding from INFORMED contractors, etc., would have given the taxpayers a real cost for replacement of old city hall! Oh wait, maybe the taxpayers would not have approved the project at the now higher cost.

LETTER: Cyclists must be respectful of drivers, too

At this time of year especially I have noticed more and more runners, walkers, four-wheelers, golf carts and bicycle riders on our highways and two lane roads.

LETTER: Holding on to the last best place

How many times have you and I heard that phrase: Montana, the last best place. I moved here to Montana about 10 years ago to escape the hassle that is the entire state of California.

LETTER: Meagher County

We, the county commissioners of Lincoln County, were delighted to learn that John Shanahan will become the new president and CEO of Tintina Resources and will be back in Montana to move the development of the Black Butte Copper project along.

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LETTER: End of an era for Flathead Bank

In 1971, an entrepreneurial independent banker from Wolf Point, Montana, A.R. Appelgren, organized a group of Bigfork residents and raised the required capital to establish the Flathead Bank of Bigfork. The bank has grown from its humble beginnings to serve the communities of Bigfork, Lakeside, Kalispell, Belgrade, Cut Bank and Ennis to the 15th largest bank in Montana.

Former Flathead man gets deferred sentence

A former player for the short-lived Glacier Outlaws baseball team received a six-year deferred sentence after admitting to ending up in a woman’s bed without permission.

Boutique-style hotel in downtown Whitefish welcomes first guests

After months of construction, only small details remained Friday morning, Aug. 5, as workers rushed around the new Firebrand Hotel in downtown Whitefish. The first guests were expected to arrive later that afternoon and soap dispensers needed to be filled, the sidewalk washed and a few last dabs of paint still needed to go up.

Legendary Kalispell cowboy rides again

C.R. Williams was a champion bronc rider during the golden age of rodeo in the 1920s.

Columbia Falls mills to end production on Aug.19

End of an era: Weyerhaeuser’s Columbia Falls mills to end production Aug. 19

Weyerhaeuser will end production at its Columbia Falls plywood plant and sawmill on Aug. 19, the company has announced.

Tribes speak out against grizzly delisting

As federal wildlife managers prepare to move grizzly bears off the Endangered Species List in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, opposition to delisting the iconic — and to many, sacred — animal has continued.

Buyers a crucial part of fair livestock sale

COLUMN: Auf Wiedersehen, Mr. Klassen

The older you get the more inevitable it becomes that people you know and love are plucked away by death.

John Timothy Chapman, 88

John Timothy Chapman, M.D., passed away peacefully on July 31, 2016 in Tacoma, Washington, with his grandson and namesake by his side.

Loretta May McKay, 72

Loretta May McKay, 72, of Missoula, passed away surrounded by loved ones on Saturday, Aug. 6, 2016, at St. Patrick Hospital.

Jhovee Allen LaCasse, 29

Jhovee Allen LaCasse, 29, was born Feb. 26, 1987, and passed away July 24, 2016.

A. Allan Aronson, 73

Arvid Allan Aronson was born to Arvid and Edith Aronson on July 6, 1943, and died as a result of congestive heart failure on August 11, 2016.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 14

Virgil Manning, 83

Virgil Manning passed away Aug. 2, 2016, at Spokane South Hospice House with his wife of 66 years by his side.

GOLF: Mance runs away to win Montana Mid-Am

Whitefish native fires 66 to best field by eight shots

POLSON — Whitefish’s Mark Mance made his final round the best one of the tournament, carding a 6-under-par 66 on Saturday to pull away from the field and win the Montana Men’s Mid-Am Golf Tournament at Polson Bay Golf Course.

LAW ROUNDUP: Pizza negligence ruins man's night

A North Main Street man made a pizza delivery driver rue the day he or she forgot his pizza. The hungry man told

COLUMN: Carrying a burning passion for news too far?

Usually when I “make the front page,” it means I am designing tomorrow’s paper and building the page for our Daily Inter Lake readers, but two weeks ago, I actually made the front page the hard way — I was in the news.

A. Allan Aronson, 73

John Timothy Chapman, 88

Loretta May McKay, 72

Jhovee Allen LaCasse, 29

Jhovee Allen LaCasse

Virgil Manning, 83

Buyers a crucial part of fair livestock sale

Kaitlyn May of the Grandview Supreme 4-H club kisses her simmental cross steer Reets after weighing him at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Tribes speak out against grizzly delisting

Jimmy St. Goddard, a traditional chief of the Blackfeet Nation and vice chairman of Guardians of Our Ancestors Legacy, performs a song during a ceremony to honor the grizzly bear and bring attention to the proposed removal of the grizzly from the federal endangered species list at the Rising Sun picnic area in Glacier National Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ben Perrin goes up for a shot against Sam Bolster during a men's open game of the fourth annual Kalispell Firefighters 3-on-3 Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Madison Akers splits two defenders as she drives to the basket during the women's open game of the fourth annual Kalispell Firefighters 3-on-3 Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Adam Bradley takes a shot over Brant Beaudry during a men's open game of the Kalispell Firefighters 3-on-3 Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Dancing Thunder, the Principal Chief of the Susquehannock of the State of Florida, performs a song about the grizzly bear during a ceremony to honor the grizzly bear and bring attention to the proposed removal of the grizzly from the federal endangered species list at the Rising Sun pinic area in Glacier National Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jimmy St. Goddard, a traditional chief of the Blackfeet Nation and vice chairman of Guardians of Our Ancestors' Legacy, performs a song during a ceremony to honor the grizzly bear and bring attention to the proposed removal of the grizzly from the federal endangered species list at the Rising Sun pinic area in Glacier National Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

DUI patrol in full force through holiday

Law enforcement patrols will be out in full force over the next couple of weeks as part of the national “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign.

A foodie's guide to finding the best restaurants

Local antique shop to be featured on TV pilot

Local Western antique store Cowboy Cabin will be featured on the upcoming pilot episode of “The Wild West Trading Post,” a new series on the INSP network.

New program helps socially challenged kids

When a local speech-language pathologist decided children with social disabilities needed a place to learn after school, she sold her home and used the money to start a nonprofit business.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 13

Texas man drowns in Flathead Lake

A 53-year-old man drowned Thursday after tipping his kayak over on Flathead Lake near Bigfork.

Northwest Montana Fair - Garrett Jewett

Garrett Jewett, 14, makes a sign for the Northwest Montana Fair for when he’ll be showing his heifer Abeline. 

5 ways to turn your deck from drab to fab

Grizzlies wandering Whitefish neighborhoods relocated

A pair of grizzlies seen wandering through residential areas in Whitefish were relocated to the Whitefish Mountain Range near the Canadian border on Thursday, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

WEEKEND UPDATE: Nurturing Center yard sale

The Nurturing Center in Kalispell is having a yard sale this weekend. The sale begins at 8:30 a.m. today and Saturday. Proceeds will go directly toward the center’s programs and services for local families and child care providers.

Kalispell schools outline $76.8 million budget

Flathead County’s largest school district will operate on $76.8 million in the 2016-17 school year.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Abbie Shelter marks 40 years

The Abbie Shelter celebrates its 40th anniversary and 40 years of providing safety, independence and empowerment to women and families in the Flathead Valley with “Flashback 1976” a dance and costume party, at 6 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 25, at the Glacier View Lodge in Whitefish.

Stroke program expanding here

A statewide program that provides specialized care to stroke patients in rural communities is continuing to expand in the Flathead Valley and has hit statewide records for treating patients from afar.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 12

Anthony James Herbold, 19

Anthony James Herbold, 19, passed away at Fresno Reservoir near Havre on Monday, Aug. 8, 2016.

Daniel Raymond Weber, 60

Daniel Raymond Weber, 60, of Columbia Falls, passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 7, 2016, in Olney.

Vicki Schlabs Jones, 61

Vicki Ann Jones passed away Sunday, Aug. 7, 2016, after a long battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family at The HealthCenter.

Whitefish grizzly

A grizzly bear eats from a cherry tree on Dakota Avenue in Whitefish on Tuesday morning.

COLUMN: Obsessing about baseball's brilliant weirdo

I know better than to fall for a professional athlete.

BASEBALL: Kalispell's Pistorese called up to Bakersfield

Flathead alum fans six in first appearance

Kalispell native Joe Pistorese struck out the side in back-to-back innings in his California League debut on Wednesday night.

GOLF: Tucker, Williams tied for Montana Mid-Am golf lead

POLSON — Shawn Tucker and Spencer Williams both had 5-under 67s to share the first-day lead of the Montana Men’s Mid-Am golf tournament at Polson Bay Golf Course on Thursday.

LAW ROUNDUP: Fire set in Kalispell Chamber bathroom

Daniel Raymond Weber, 60

Vicki Schlabs Jones, 61

Anthony James Herbold, 19

School bond

The bricks on a corner of the old gym at Flathead High School have crumbled away.

LETTER: It's time to preserve water worldwide

Read “To the Last Drop” in the August National Geographic. If you don’t have a copy, go to the library.

LETTER: Remember all who allowed bottling plant

I attended the meeting held at Creston School concerning the proposed water-bottling plant. The Inter Lake reported on this meeting, counting more than 300 people present. We were there to protest the establishment of an industrial effort to bottle and transport water from our aquifer for individual profit.

LETTER: America needs to go forward with Clinton

Part of my personal therapy is writing letters to the editor. I thoroughly enjoy writing. While walking the high school track the other day these thoughts came to me. One thing I have learned in life is that life is just one big lesson after another. So here are my “track-walking thoughts”:

DNA reveals older grizzly bear killed cyclist

June 29 attack was region’s first fatal grizzly mauling in 15 years

The bear that fatally mauled Forest Service law enforcement officer Brad Treat on June 29 was a roughly 20-year-old male grizzly, according to state wildlife officials.

LETTER: Take the long view of effects of bottling plant

The Creston bottling plant proposes to ship 231 million gallons of water out of Montana. Using — or exploiting — a precious state resource such as this sets an important precedent. How and under what circumstances is state water used? This question implicates public trust principles, and is far beyond business as usual at the Department of Environmental Quality! How will we, as a state, feel in 10-20 years if we can chart a course of conduct where massive amounts of water can be sent out of state based on traditional property rights laws?

Montana Life: C.R. Williams

A page from the scrapbook of C. R. Williams. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

EDITORIAL: Park's dark skies a vital resource

We dare say there are few things as spectacular as gazing upward at a sky full of stars shining brightly against the night sky. We’re fortunate to live in an area where the splendor of the night sky still exists, given the startling statistic that one-third of the Earth’s population now lives in places with enough light pollution to render the Milky Way indiscernible at night.

Pay It Forward Child & Family Services Inc.

Erin Keithly leads the children as they practice the song on Thursday, July 28 at Pay It Forward Child & Family Services, Inc. in Kalispell. Pay It Forward is a non-profit that works with children offering therapeutic after school and summer programs as well as support groups. They have four fundraisers coming up beginning with the Basler Family Chiropractic event on August 24th. Additional fundraisers are going to be held at Kalispell Brewery from 5-8p.m. on August 30, and at Five Guys Burgers and Fries from 5-7 p.m. on September 13. Plans are in the works for a spaghetti dinner later in Septmeber. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

County launches surplus auction website

The Flathead County commissioners have approved the launch of a surplus auction website, http://flathead.mt.gov/surplus.

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Pisk Family

Greg, Peter and Adam Pisk at Pisk Chiropractic in downtown Kalispell on Friday, August 5. Peter and his wife Ella Mae started the business in 1953. Their son Greg took over when his father retired in 1990. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Fire season and hunting season overlap, so take precautions

With fire season underway in Montana and several counties already implementing fire restrictions, Montana Fish, Wildife and Parks is asking hunters to remain aware of the regulations in place in the locations they plan to hunt.

County to expedite Bigfork green-box fees

Bigfork residents will get charged $47.84 per residence for their new green-box garbage collection site starting with the current tax year, the Flathead County commissioners decided Tuesday.

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Swan Valley Connections holds Shintangle

• Swan Valley Connections is pleased to announce its Swan Valley Shintangle fundraiser at 33 Bar Ranch on Barber Creek Road in Condon at 6 p.m., Saturday, Aug. 20.

Hecklers greet couple charged in puppy mill case

A man and woman who appeared for felony aggravated animal cruelty charges in Lake County Justice Court on Wednesday exited the courthouse to a chorus of boos and chants of “no more puppy mills.”

Overgrazing a common problem on local small-acreage farms

Ranchettes are plentiful in the Flathead Valley, but if pastures aren’t managed correctly, weeds can also be plentiful.

Family recalls aftermath of boat fire

When a flash fire on a boat sent several of their family members to the hospital over the Fourth of July weekend, causing burns so extensive that their 10-year-old twin daughters required 17 days of treatment at a Seattle burn center, the Wagoners still found a way to be thankful.

Adults with Heart Disease: Vaccinations are an Important Part of Protecting Your Health

Input wanted on Blacktail Mt. Road plan

The Flathead National Forest is seeking comments regarding the proposal to stabilize and restore the Blacktail Road from milepost 3.43 to milepost 13.13 (top of Blacktail Mountain Road). The Environmental Analysis has been completed, and public comments are due by Sept. 2. There are three alternatives being considered.

Karen Louise Ackom, 35

Karen Louise Ackom, 35, of Kalispell, “went to be with Jesus” on Aug. 8, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, from severe medical issues, with her family by her side.

Sandra Lee Essig, 44

Sandra Lee Essig died in her sleep July 30, 2016, at her home in Billings. She was 44.

Summertime type 2 diabetes management tips

This Week in the Flathead | Aug. 11-17

Ann Christine Shelt, 81

Ann Christine Shelt’s vibrant soul left this earth on Aug. 7, 2016, at age 81.

Wallace Millard Riley, 90

Wallace Millard Riley passed away Saturday, Aug. 6, 2016, at the family home in Columbia Falls of natural causes. "Wally," as he was known to family, friends and acquaintances, was 90 years old.

Libby, Polson host blues festivals

Bringing back the blues

The blues are back.

LAW ROUNDUP: Parking dispute settled after counseling

A store manager on Hutton Ranch Road told

DAYBOOK, Aug. 11

Austin Young Band

Austin Young performs.

The Chris O'Leary Band

Karen Louise Ackom, 35

Healthy eating tips for kids when dining out

Subcontractors sought for weatherization program

The Community Action Partnership of Northwest Montana, serving Lake, Lincoln, Flathead and Sanders counties, is looking for interested plumbers, electricians, general contractors, heating/air conditioning contractors and other skilled trades to become qualified as subcontractors for its weatherization program.

Friday marks livestock loss deadline

Friday is the deadline for applications for funding projects to reduce livestock kills by grizzlies and wolves.

Bigfork man back in prison for further violations

Jason Scott Hill, 35, of Bigfork, was transferred to Montana State Prison in Deer Lodge on Tuesday for breaking the terms of his probation and bail-jumping.

Benghazi panel chairman Gowdy visits Kalispell

National figure visits Montana to support Rep. Zinke

Speaking at a campaign rally alongside one of Hillary Clinton’s foremost critics on Tuesday, Republican Rep. Ryan Zinke offered sharp criticism of the Democratic presidential nominee while acknowledging his party’s struggle to present a consistent representation of its principles to voters.

Survey shows top priorities for Flathead job seekers

A newly completed statewide survey on Montana residents shows that in a time when businesses are desperate for employees, the Flathead Valley workforce is searching for value in work, not just pay.

Weather has been ally in fire season - so far

It’s been a relatively muted fire season in Northwest Montana so far this year, with the exception of the 1,465-acre Copper King Fire burning east of Thompson Falls.

Classrooms lively at Hedges' summer school

Former students return to help out

On Wednesday the thunderous sound of 30 children skipping is heard in the hallways of Hedges Elementary School. Children emerge from around corners at both ends of the hallway, bounding from one classroom to the next.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Nurturing Center taking items for upcoming yard sale

The Nurturing Center in Kalispell is accepting donations of gently used items that might be of some worth for a yard sale being held beginning at 8:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday, Aug. 12 and 13. Proceeds will go directly toward the Nurturing Center’s programs and services to encourage the success of local families and Child Care providers.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 10

Roger Wehr Minnich, 83

With love, we said goodbye on Aug. 1, 2016, to Roger Wehr Minnich.

John A. Klassen, 71

John A. Klassen died unexpectedly at home in Whitefish on Aug. 3, 2016, at the age of 71.

LAW ROUNDUP: Driving while bureaucratic

A woman allegedly used her job title as an excuse to drive recklessly when

John A. Klassen, 71

Zinke/Gowdy Grassroots Rally in Kalispell

Rep. Ryan Zinke introduces Rep. Trey Gowdy of South Carolina at the grassroots rally at the Majestic Valley Arena Pavilion on Tuesday, August 9, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Stormy weather

Stormy skies roll through the Flathead Valley mid-morning on Tuesday, August 9, just north of Kalispell.

La diabetes y el nuevo año escolar. Cinco pasos para la seguridad de su hijo

Practical remodeling tips for modern multi-generational families

Top 5 secrets from professionals on home renovation

Workshop focuses on childhood trauma

The public is invited to attend a workshop on childhood trauma and its effects on brain development on Aug. 19

LETTER: Montana can't afford refugees

Well, another out-of-state liberal is again at the forefront of trying to bring refugees into Montana. Just thinking of the logistics involved in bringing people from a Third World country to Missoula is mind-boggling.

LETTER: Will Flathead learn same lesson as Owens Valley, California?

Much of the “discussion” surrounding the proposed Montana Artesian Water Company has been characterized by valley residents’ challenges to the proposal’s approval and DNRC’s response that these challenges are without merit and based on ignorance.

LETTER: Kalispell city officials need to pay attention

We have heard just about all we can stand concerning aircraft flying into the city airport. When looking at this wonderful bypass on the west side of town, we get far more noise than we ever did from the city airport.

LETTER: Candidate Chet Billi has keen understanding

I am endorsing Chet Billi for Montana House District 5. When I heard Chet was running, I invited him to my office so I could meet him face to face. As many candidates over the years will tell you, I pull no punches when I interview someone soliciting my support.

5 maneras de mantener la piel bella y saludable este verano

Save money, cut stress with savvy small-business travel tips

Libby man dies in slope collapse near mine

A Libby man died in a slope collapse Sunday near an old mine site in Lincoln County, the sheriff’s office announced Monday.

3 simple ways men can improve their health

Police respond to alleged gun threat

Minor flooding reported at Lake McDonald Lodge

Heavy rain on Sunday caused minor flooding in Glacier National Park’s Lake McDonald Lodge.

Accidents snarl traffic around valley

Two separate accidents along U.S. 93 backed up traffic Monday, but as of Monday night there were no serious injuries reported in either crash.

Bigfork man charged with sexual assault for allegedly touching girl

A Bigfork man has been charged with felony sexual assault after being accused of inappropriately touching a 6-year-old girl in 2013.

Hedwig 'Hedy' Emelia Kelley, 72

Hedwig “Hedy” Emelia Kelley, 72, of Kalispell, passed away Aug. 5, 2016, after a courageous battle with a chronic illness.

David Andrew Frisnegger, 57

On July 15, 2016, at Dave’s Tucson home, the excessive heat blazed physically while a symbolic thunderstorm brewed spiritually in Western Montana, both coinciding with his death.

Ronald L. Baker, 76

Swank wins bid for FVCC housing project

Flathead Valley Community College has selected a Kalispell construction company to build the school’s first on-campus housing. The project is set to break ground sometime in the next week to 10 days, according to college officials.

Accidents snarl traffic

Kalispell Police, West Valley Fire and Montana Highway Patrol respond to the scene of a rollover accident on U.S. 93 on Monday morning just north of Kalispell.

Glacier Park has busiest month ever

In case it wasn’t obvious to anyone who has visited Glacier National Park last month, July 2016 was far and away Glacier’s busiest month of all time, shattering the previous record set in July 2014.

Young goslings at Woodland

Young goslings in the morning light at Woodland Park in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Wagoner Twings

Priscilla and Olivia, 10 year old twin sisters, surrounded by their family on Monday, August 8, at Woodland Park, in Kalispell. From left, Steve Wagoner, Hadasa, 14, the twins, Nettie Wagoner and Zaria. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Wagoner twins at Woodland Park

Olivia and Priscilla Wagoner ride the merry-go-round at Woodland Park as their sister Hadasa, 14, spins them around. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Wagoner twins with family

Priscilla and Olivia, 10 year old twin sisters, surrounded by their family on Monday, August 8, at Woodland Park, in Kalispell. From left, Steve Wagoner, Hadasa, 14, the twins, Nettie Wagoner and Zaria. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

5 reasons to bring your pet on a Gainesville vacation

Man killed in ATV crash identified

The Flathead County Sheriff and Coroner’s Office has released the name of a man who died in an ATV crash Sunday on Good Creek Road in Olney.

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Caregiver of the Year known for her poise and patience

Putting the ‘human’ in human resources

When North Valley Hospital became an affiliate of Kalispell Regional Healthcare through a partnership finalized May 1, the transition came with a substantial amount of behind-the-scenes work on many levels.

5 beauty tips to take you from summer to fall

5 Easy Tips to Help Your Child Have a Successful School Year

Woman recounts battle with lung cancer

‘It felt unfair — all cancer does ...’

Roughly six months after a Whitefish woman was given two weeks to live, she sat on her back porch and talked about the cancer that was trying to kill her.

Kalispell City Council to review property

Kalispell City Council will tonight review an appraisal of a Forest Service property it is considering acquiring for public works, police and fire department equipment storage.

Kalispell man pleads not guilty to gun charge

A Kalispell man pleaded not guilty in Flathead District Court on Thursday to felony assault with a weapon.

College board considers housing bids

The Flathead Valley Community College Board of Trustees will hold a special board conference call today to award the contract for construction of a student housing building.

Suspect in trouble after allegedly telling people it's 'a good day to die'

The

Lawrence Wayne Birky, 76

Lawrence Wayne Birky, 76, passed away on Thursday, Aug. 4, 2016, surrounded by his loving family at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Bar outburst nets man a five-year sentence

After an outburst at Cattleman’s Bar and Casino followed by a police chase in February, Brandon Lee Webb has been sentenced to the Montana Department of Corrections for 10 years with five years suspended.

Monday Profile: Robbie Kolodejchuk

Robbie Kolodejchuk, Human Resources Assistant at North Valley Hospital, on  July 27 in Whitefish.

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The swimmers in the Olympic division of the Xterra Flathead Triathlon start their swim in Foys Lake on Sunday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A biker rounds a corner during the Xterra Flathead Triathlon at Herron Park on Sunday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Daniel Shaw of Coeur d'Alene Idaho runs to the finish line to win the Olympic division of the inaugural Xterra Flathead Triathlon at Herron Park on Sunday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

OPINION: Former Marine questions comments of Gold Star father

LETTER: Trump's misogyny

The other day a lady walked up to two women I know well, who were discussing politics, and proudly announced that she “loves Donald Trump!”

LETTER: It's 'our' water

I have lived in the Flathead Valley for 11 years. Moved here with my family from a large city with its own water problems. I cannot believe the “powers that be” are even entertaining this bottling-plant proposal.

OPINION: Are you willing to give up your freedoms to big government?

Do you want a one-world government? Would it lead to world peace if the United States surrendered our sovereignty to a global government? Or does an all-powerful government always lead to genocide as happened in China under Mao, Russia under Stalin, Germany under Hitler, and Cambodia under Pol Pot?

LETTER: Blame GOP for veterans' problems

The Sunday, July 31, 2016, edition of the Inter Lake published a letter from Mr. Dale Terrillion criticizing Sen. Tester on his record as a member of the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs.

LETTER: Taxi company's owner wants even playing field

I am the owner of Glacier Taxi. When I first started the taxi company 2 1/2 years ago I wanted to create something that would last and provide a service that people would be able to depend upon. For the most part we have been able to do what we started out to accomplish.

OPINION: Politics has no role in military

When I was commanding men and women on the battlefield, I never asked what their religious affiliation was. It didn’t matter in war. What matters is the individual next to you is patriotic, capable and willing to put their life on the line for their country and their unit. Every soldier, sailor, airman, Marine, or coastguardsman who serves honorably and pays the ultimate sacrifice should be honored and their family thanked.

Parks aim for dark sky designation

Anyone who has been to Glacier National Park’s Logan Pass on a clear moonless night can’t help becoming transfixed by the scenery overhead, where innumerable stars seem to spill forth from the smoky outlines of the Milky Way Galaxy’s Orion Arm.

OPINION: Water company owners give their side of story

In recent months, there has been a lot of chatter about our proposed water bottling plant in the Creston area. Much of what we’ve seen and heard amount to false and misleading claims that could be made about any new water use in the Flathead, whether for a new subdivision, irrigation pivot, recreational, commercial or industrial use. The subtext of the detractors is one of simple anti-development obstructionism. We won’t begrudge anyone of their right to take that position, and to express themselves however they wish. What we would ask is that everyone be honest and form your final opinions based on facts rather than emotions and ideologies.

OPINION: Capt. Khan served with distinction, says Montana soldier

Several months ago, I tied a suicide bombing in Iraq to the belief system among some of the new militia movement in the West. What I left out in that account, and that has now roared to the forefront of the moment, is the American soldier who died in that attack. His name was Humayun Khan, an Army captain at the time, who gave his life to save so many others. That he and his immediate family end up inexorably tied into this bizarre presidential cycle has taught me a lot about what leadership means in this moment.

COLUMN: Help on the road is invaluable

Recent headlines in the Inter Lake show folks in Northwest Montana still know how to be Good Samaritans.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 7

Alfred Ronseth, 88

Al passed away peacefully at home on April 20, 2016, with his wife by his side.

James Henry Mahnke, 83

Dr. James Henry Mahnke passed away on Aug. 2, 2016, at his home in Whitefish.

EDITORIAL: A cautious welcome for ride-sharing

Welcome to the brave new world of Uber.

Mitchell D. Hagerman, 59

Mitchell D. Hagerman, 59, passed away July 15, 2016.

A young man roars down the new Riptide Racer, which sends individuals down 400-feet of tube.

Avalanche Mountain is an exhilarating raft ride at Silverwood's Boulder Beach.

The large wave pool is very popular with kids of all ages.

OLYMPICS: Kalispell's shooting star

2012 gold medalist enjoying Olympics as spectator

Jamie Corkish’s stepson has a question for her.

Jamie Corkish

Gold medalist Jamie Corkish listens to the Star Spangled Banner after winning 50-meter three-position rifle shooting at the 2012 Olympic Games in London. Corkish moved to Kalispell with her family in 2013. (Tim Hipps/U.S. Army IMCOM)

LAW ROUNDUP: Man tired of living near 'gangbanger'

A Battle Hollow Avenue resident in Somers wanted to talk to a deputy about his continued frustrations with

COLUMN: 'Mediagate,' the scandal you won't hear about on cable news

In the last two weeks, it has become obvious that a political scandal is unfolding which exceeds in scope anything seen previously in our country’s 240-year history.

Alfred Ronseth, 88

James Henry Mahnke, 83

Mitchell D. Hagerman, 59

Parks aim for dark sky designation

The Milky Way glows above a ridge in Glacier National Park last weekend. This photo was taken at Haystack Creek along Going-to-the-Sun Road.   (Alan Anderson photo/XanderVision Imagery)

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Art Olson puts the top down on his 1958 Chevy Impala during the Evergreen Show 'n Shine at Conlin's Furniture Outlet on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Dan Brockman shines his 1955 Ford F-100 during the Evergreen Show 'n Shine on Saturday. The truck originally was owned by Brockman's grandfather. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ally sits inside Herm Rowland's 1935 Chris Craft Deluxe Runabout during the 11th annual Big Sky Antique and Classic Boat Show at Marina Cay Resort in Bigfork on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Angie Oakins of Natural Elements Jewelry hangs her handmade earrings on a display during the 38th annual Bigfork Festival of Arts on Saturday. Oakins said that her jewelery is inspired by nature and uses a combination of natural stones, etched, soldered and forged sterling silver jewelry. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Sarawut Kanpairee, a Thailand charcoal artist does a free-hand charcoal painting in the Sunti World Art Gallery booth at the 38th annual Bigfork Festival of Arts on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Growth puts pressure on parking, roads

KALISPELL REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER

As Kalispell Regional Medical Center continues to evolve into a destination for health care, the road and parking system at the expanding medical complex has struggled to keep up with the growth.

RELIGION ROUNDUP: First Presbyterian holds ice cream social on Aug. 10

The First Presbyterian Church in Kalispell is hosting a community ice cream social on Wednesday, Aug. 10, at 7 p.m. The entire community is invited to attend.

Joanne Elizabeth Eaves, 71

Joanne Elizabeth Eaves, 71, of Kalispell and Palm Desert, California, passed away Aug. 3, 2016, in Rancho Mirage, California.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 6

Horse cutting takes over Majestic Valley Arena

Free event features more than 300 horses and riders

A sport born out of one of the oldest cowboy traditions arrives at the Majestic Valley Arena beginning this morning when the Big Sky Futurity and Aged cutting horse competition gets underway.

LAW ROUNDUP: 'Yelling at judge' gets response

The Kalispell Police Department were called in after a man was reportedly “yelling at the judge” and “being inappropriate” on First Avenue East.

Joanne Elizabeth Eaves, 71

Overgrazing

Bright purple thistles are one of the weeds that have taken over a pasture at Middle Foys after the land was overgrazed two years in a row. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

5 ways tech can help you score home entertaining gold

Helena man charged for Glacier gun incident

A Helena man involved in a July armed standoff in Glacier National Park is scheduled to appear next week in federal magistrate court in West Glacier after he allegedly fired a gun into the air at a busy campground on Lake McDonald.

Fast fixes to boost curb appeal for a quick home sale

LETTER: Make your voice heard about bottling plant

Concerning the draft discharge permit for the Montana Artesian Water Company, spokeswoman Lisa Peterson of the Department of Environmental Quality said the permit process is “very data-based ... not a referendum” (Daily Inter Lake, Aug. 3).

OPINION: Senator Kaine and the Muslim Brotherhood

Sen. Timothy Kaine, Hillary Clinton’s choice for VP, has a history of embracing the Muslim Brotherhood and taking campaign donations from multiple Islamist organizations.

LETTER: Billi will advocate for Constitution

Chet Billi is the man we need representing Whitefish. He understands the one thing that should unite all Montanans and Americans — that one thing is the Constitution.

LETTER: Be committed to your child's education

As we approach a new school year, are you being intentional about the education of your child? Are you an involved parent who is committed to being engaged in your child’s classroom and connecting with their teachers? Schools see a wide variety of parental involvement, and I believe the best education involves both parents and teachers.

LETTER: State laws must be tougher on puppy mills

After viewing the horror of the Charlo puppy mill, are we the people going to stand up to our senators and reps and demand they get and sign a bill abolishing puppy mills? Our state is known for open doors on puppy mills. That’s why when they get abolished in other states they flee to Montana. It’s time to say no more!

LETTER: Vote for Lowery to solve problems

This November voters will be voting for a Flathead County commissioner. I have read that Pam Holmquist is a real conservative. Eileen Lowery is a real person, who has the integrity to actually live in the district that she will be representing.

EDITORIAL: Cars, boats and crafts: Enjoy!

If it’s cool and it’s on wheels, it’s likely to be in Evergreen on Saturday.

WEEKEND UPDATE: Doughnuts

Kalispell Senior Center is selling Krispy Kreme doughnuts as a fundraiser today starting at 6 a.m. on the corner of U.S. 2 and 93, downtown Kalispell, until they’re gone.

Scouts win awards at summer camp

Troop 1936 based out of Whitefish and Eureka brought home several awards from a weeklong Melita Island Summer Camp on Flathead Lake.

Skydive boogie starts on Saturday

The 49th annual Lost Prairie Boogie kicks off Saturday, Aug. 6, and continues through Aug. 14 at Carson Field in Marion west of Kalispell.

Agencies launch sunscreen initiative

The Flathead City-County Health Department and Kalispell Parks and Recreation have begun to work together to help combat skin cancer in the Flathead Valley with a simple solution: sunscreen.

Record crowds flock to state parks

Flathead Lake State Park visitation is up 6 percent

It’s shaping up to be another record-breaking year for Montana’s state parks, and the six park units along the shores of Flathead Lake are no exception.

Bio station aims to expand its reach

YELLOW BAY — Addressing a group of local visitors to the University of Montana’s Biological Station Wednesday afternoon, station director Jim Elser said he plans to turn the renowned facility into the “best freshwater biological station in the world.”

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Deadline nears for fair parade entries

The last day to register an entry for the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Parade in Kalispell is Aug. 10.

Cars, boats and crafts: Enjoy the weekend!

If it’s cool and it’s on wheels, it’s likely to be in Evergreen on Saturday.

Paving proposed for all of Blacktail Road

The Flathead National Forest’s Swan Lake Ranger District is accepting public comments on its proposal to finish paving the main road up Blacktail Mountain by 2018.

Benghazi chairman to stump for Zinke Aug. 9 week

U.S. Rep. Trey Gowdy, R-S.C., will speak at a Flathead Valley rally next week to support the re-election campaign of Montana’s lone congressman.

Alvin Leo Sylvest, 90

Alvin Leo Sylvest passed away on Aug. 2, 2016, at Brendan House in Kalispell. He was 90.

Patrick W. Johnstone, 65

Patrick W. Johnstone, 65, of Fort Benton, passed away Sunday morning, July 31, 2016, at Peace Hospice in Great Falls of natural causes.

Carole Callas, 82

Our wonderful mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, Carole Callas, passed away peacefully Monday, July 25, 2016, at Aspen Meadows in Billings with her family at her side. She was 82 years young.

Terry Lynn Keller, 62

Terry Lynn Keller was born April 20, 1954, in Kalispell, and passed away on Aug. 1, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, after a short and unexpected illness.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 5

FEATURED: Flathead's fastest

BRIEFS: Hayes wins Flathead Drag Race; The Event raises $120,000 for charity

LAW ROUNDUP: Hit-run-and-strip driver sought

Patrick W. Johnstone, 65

Carole Callas, 82

Terry Lynn Keller, 62

Scouts win awards at summer camp

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Six-year-old Deena Fuller picks out mysis shrimp from an aquarium during the Flathead Lake Biological Station Open House on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Tricia Youngblood holds her son Bennett as he tries to grab the contraptions people made in the phytoplankton display at the Flathead Lake Biological Station on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ceabian Sobolish, 8, sits on the Jessie B, a research vessel for the Flathead Lake Biological Station, during the open house. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Cody Youngblood sits outside the Flathead Lake Biological Station during an interview on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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People entering Wayfarers State Park pass a sign stating that the campsite is full. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Northwest Montana Fair: Tina Engebritson

Tina Engebritson at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Thursday afternoon, August 4, in Kalispell. For Engebritson people enjoying the fair is very important to her because she enjoyed it so much when she was a young participant. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

KRMC parking issues

A view of the still under construction parking addition near Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Thursday morning, August 4. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

KRMC Parking

Packed parking lots around Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Thursday, Aug. 4.

LETTER: Glass ceiling got first crack in Montana in 1916

The Democratic National Convention is over, and 96 years after women earned the right to vote, a woman is the nominee of a major party for president.

Dale Lynn Huntsman, 73

Dale Lynn Huntsman passed away on Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at the age of 73.

LETTER: Stopping bridge on Flathead Lake is priority

Recently, the media has reported as “completed” the bridge to Dockstader Island on the north shore of Flathead Lake, near Bigfork. On or before Aug. 15, Flathead District Court will rule on the validity of the permit that allowed the bridge to be built in the first place. This ruling will determine fundamentally whether Montana’s Lakeshore Protection Act provides meaningful protection for any lake anywhere in Montana.

LETTER: Hey candidates, where's your plan to preserve Social Security?

Debate after debate, all I hear from some of the candidates are vague proposals on how to make Social Security financially sound.

LETTER: Water compact was always plainly against Constitution

We didn’t really need a judge to tell us the “immunity” clause pertaining to the Flathead Reservation Water Management Board created by the Salish and Kootenai water compact violated the Montana Constitution; anyone with “eyes to see” could see it.  

COLUMN: Imitate a perch to get whitefish

It’s been almost 10 years since the last great year for limits of whitefish on Flathead Lake. There are some fish being caught out on Flathead, in fact in lots of places, just not the numbers we grew so used to during the heyday of the great runs. A little history is in order.

Man pleads not guilty to drug possession

Dylan Lloyd Herman, 26, pleaded not guilty to felony criminal possession of dangerous drugs and felony theft in Flathead County District Court July 21 after allegedly leading law enforcement officers on a high-speed car chase.

Mollman Pass Trail closed to public

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Wildlife Division has temporarily closed the Mollman Pass Trail in the Mission Mountains Tribal Wilderness after receiving a report of a dead horse off the trail.

5 superfoods that support kids' eye health

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Sex offender sentenced for violating parole

An Evergreen sex offender received a 13-year suspended prison sentence July 21 in Flathead County District Court.

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Big Mountain Run planned Saturday

On Saturday, the Glacier Nordic Club will hold its 34th annual Big Mountain Run.

The smart traveler's guide to affordable autumn travel

Injured people 'in pretty good shape'

DECK COLLAPSE

People who were hurt when a deck collapsed Tuesday night in Lakeside were described in “pretty good shape” Wednesday by a family member.

Event focuses on tribal collaboration

BACKPACKER’S BALL

This Saturday the Backpacker’s Ball will give local supporters of Glacier National Park an opportunity to give back at the largest annual fundraiser for the park’s fundraising partner, the Glacier National Park Conservancy.

Ronan Police lawsuit to be class-action case

A lawsuit against the Ronan Police Department is moving forward as a class action after Lake County District Judge James Manley ruled that hundreds of people might be impacted if a jury determines that officers in the department were not properly certified.

West-side district arking permits available Aug. 8

Parking permits for a west-side parking district in the neighborhood around Flathead High School will be available to residents, students and staffers beginning Aug. 8.

Capstone gift completes Intermountain facility

Intermountain on Tuesday dedicated a new education center in Somers that has been named after a Montana couple who donated the largest single gift in the nonprofit organization’s 107-year history.

August of art

The 38th annual Bigfork Festival of the Arts is Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 6 and 7, in downtown Bigfork.

DAYBOOK, Aug. 4

This Week in the Flathead | Aug. 4-10

EDITORIAL: Congratulations, Athletes of Year

There were plenty of impressive athletes toiling on the fields, courts and mats for local high schools this year, but two stand out: Glacier High School’s Ali Williams and Whitefish High School’s Luke May.

Western Amateur

TERRY COLUMN: Welcome back to our cyclical sports

Welcome back to our cyclical sports

GOLF: Libby's Johnston misses cut at Western Amateur

LAKE FOREST, Ill. — Libby golfer Ryggs Johnston missed the cut after two rounds of play at the Western Amateur Championship on Wednesday in suburban Chicago.

LAW ROUNDUP: Did bottling opponents flip a lid?

An angry mother told

Capstone gift completes Intermountain facility

Mike and Janna Taylor stand by the sign at Intermountain's new campus in Somers. The couple donated a sizable, but undisclosed amount of money to complete the new facility. The education center has been named after them in honor of their contribution. (Photo courtesy of Intermountain)

Injured people 'in pretty good shape'

A portion of the deck at 4 Lakeside Ave. collapsed on Tuesday night, resulting in injuries to more than a dozen people. The incident prompted a massive response from first responders around the Flathead Valley. On Wednesday morning, the deck can clearly be seen where it collapsed while the railing remained intact. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Colder weather

Colder temperatures move into the Flathead Valley on Wednesday, August 3, filling the skies with heavy clouds as seen from Volunteer Park in Lakeside. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Amelia Hanko, a Flathead 11th-grader who went to Hedges, helps Hedges' fourth-grader Mabel Peterson with her writing during the Hedges Summer School on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Savannah Miller, a former Hedges student, helps first-grader Jenna Douglas in the computer lab during the Hedges Summer School on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Hedges fifth-grader Emma McGough reads to former Hedges student Natalie Mills during the Hedges Summer School on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo Parade Grand Marshall Gordon Pirrie stands on his 1942 Chevy Fire Truck. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

3 back-to-school budget hacks to save you money

Vivian Hull, 91

Vivian Hull passed away July 28, 2016, after a brief struggle with heart disease. Independent to the end, she remained at her home in Whitefish under the care of family and friends.

Make a home feel bigger, function better without adding a square foot of space

Fire danger raised to 'high'

On Monday, fire officials in Northwest Montana moved the fire danger to “high,” based on current and expected weather conditions, as well as the number of resources available for response.

Casino - but not signs - approved for restaurant

The Kalispell City Council on Monday decided to continue limiting casino signs for businesses with accessory casinos.

Uber begins ride-sharing service in Montana

The ride-sharing service that has been rivaling traditional taxi services across the world began rolling in Montana on Monday.

Council diary

A summary of city council actions across the Flathead Valley on Monday night:

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Bigfork shows feature arts, boats

Bigfork is gearing up for a big weekend with a pair of family-friendly events Saturday and Sunday — an arts festival and classic boat show. Admission is free.

Esther Anderson Chrisman, 89

Esther Anderson Chrisman, 89, of Kalispell passed away on Saturday July 30, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center of natural causes after a brief illness. She was born on July 12, 1927, to Ole and Carrie Anderson in Leland, Illinois.

Carol Leona Toney, 55

Carol Leona Toney passed away on July 26, 2016, at 1 p.m. in the Lake View Care Center in Bigfork after a six-month battle with cancer.

DAYBOOK, August 3

Fred Fellows Jr., 54

Fred Fellows Jr. passed away Saturday night, July 30, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

2016 Athlete of the Year winners announced

Use the hashtag #2016AOY to join the conversation

Structural collapse in Lakeside

A structural collapse in Lakeside lead to Lakeside Avenue being filled with first responders from around the Flathead Valley on Tuesday night, August 2. At least 10 people were injured and transported to either Kalispell Regional Medical Center or North Valley Hospital. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Deck collapse in Lakeside

Deck collapse

11 people hurt when Lakeside deck collapses

Eleven adults suffered minor injuries when a deck collapsed at a Lakeside home Tuesday night.

LAW ROUNDUP: Damsel in distress turns out to be role-playing gamer

Someone reportedly heard a female crying and a male screaming “God, no, no, no,” on 10th Street West. The caller told

Esther Anderson Chrisman, 89

Fred Fellows Jr., 54

Carol Leona Toney, 55

Bear put down after break-ins

State wildlife officials killed a food-conditioned adult female grizzly bear after it broke into three camp trailers in the North Fork area, according to a press release from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

5 signs your financial institution cares about you

Judge Susan "Tina" Gordon

Longtime Columbia Falls judge gets national award

Longtime Columbia Falls City Judge Susan “Tina” Gordon has been named the most outstanding non-attorney judge in the United States by the National Judges Association.

Water-plant foes fill school gym

Opposition to a proposed water bottling plant continues to grow in Creston, where about 300 people crowded into the school gymnasium Monday night to push back against a draft discharge permit for the facility.

Roaring Lion Fire caught on a Nest Cam

Amazing time-lapse footage of the Roaring Lion fire near Hamilton off of U.S. 93.

Public comments on the proposed water bottling plant

Public comments on the proposed Montana Artesian Water Co.’s proposed bottling plant were given before a packed house on Monday evening, August 1, in the Creston School gymnasium. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Water bottling plant

Second pediatric surgeon joins hospital

Starting this month, Kalispell Regional Healthcare will have around-the-clock surgical coverage for children with the addition of a second pediatric surgeon to the team. The hire is one of the final pieces the hospital needs to offer a full line of pediatric intensive-care services.

LETTER: City airport vital to young pilots

Two years ago when I was 14, I went to the Kalispell City Airport and took a ride in a Travelair, an old seven-seat airliner from the 1920s. It was an event sponsored by the local Experimental Aircraft Association. The plane was amazing and I even got to fly it for a few minutes. I knew right when I got off the plane that I wanted to be a pilot not just for fun, but as a career. This was an amazing opportunity for me. I worked hard and saved up all I earned, then started flying lessons a couple of months ago.

LETTER: Thanks for help with Arts in Park

The Hockaday Museum of Art held its 48th “Arts in the Park” over the weekend of July 15-17. Nearly 100 artists exhibited their creations for sale. The weather was nearly perfect, with only a little rain, and the food and drink vendors provided a wide range of food and drink for the more than 7,000 people who supported the museum by attending. In sum, it was a successful event for the arts and a major fundraiser for the county’s premier art museum.

LETTER: Double standard?

Response to Susan Cahill letter of June 9 titled “Christian values and a ‘misleading’ letter.”

LETTER: Still time to impeach Obama

It’s time to bring articles of impeachment against Barack Hussein Obama for high crimes and misdemeanors.

Housing survey underway in Whitefish

The Whitefish Chamber of Commerce and the city of Whitefish last week launched an online employer housing survey, one key part of an effort to quantify the extent of the affordable workforce housing shortage affecting local workers and the businesses that employ them.

Events promote benefits of breast-feeding

In conjunction with the start of World Breastfeeding Week, Montana health officials announced Monday that more than 90 percent of Montana moms with newborns said they have opted to breast-feed — a statistic that hovers well above the national average.

Twins finish 2nd at State A tournament

Lose to defending champs Bitterroot in title game, 9-7

GREAT FALLS — The Glacier Twins fell just short of a second state championship in three years, falling 9-7 to the defending champion Bitterroot Red Sox in the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A state baseball championship on Monday at Centene Stadium.

Suspected 'refugees' are just workers

A woman requested that officers from the

Two fires erupt in Western Montana

HAMILTON — Some homes were lost to a swiftly moving wildfire Sunday in the Bitterroot National Forest near Hamilton, forest officials said.

Dorothea Lovering, 91

Dorothea Lovering, 91, “joined her parents Doug and Ella Wickham and husband Harry” on July 24, 2016.

Donald Gene Davisson, 77

Donald G. Davisson, 77, passed away on July 24, 2016, at Deaconess Hospital in Bozeman after a lengthy illness.

Doors open to South Campus Building

Kalispell area seniors had their first hot meal Monday in the $7 million South Campus Building that is now open to the public.

South Campus Building

Paddler raises money for Special Olympics

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

Salvage timber project scaled back

The Flathead National Forest on Monday announced it is opting for a smaller logging footprint in a salvage timber project slated for the area burned by the 2015 Trail Creek Fire.

Top tips for successful buyers and sellers in the auto salvage industry

Somers-Lakeside school leader settles in

Joe Price has dedicated his career to education and continues that path as the new superintendent of the Somers-Lakeside School District.

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DIL 071716 Cover

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College and credit cards: How parents can play professor

Kalispell City Council to consider new casino permit

Tonight, Kalispell City Council will consider a conditional use permit to allow the Tree Frog Tavern to house an accessory casino.

Costs still climbing for Whitefish City Hall project

The Whitefish City Council once again is being asked to approve additional money for the City Hall and parking structure, this time to cover the costs of removing contaminated soil from the building site.

Parks and Rec user fee increases proposed

The Whitefish Parks and Recreation Department has proposed a number of fee increases for youth recreation programs and park facility user fees to offset a funding shortfall in the department.