Ellington

Lakers finish 2nd at State AA tournament

Big seventh inning lifts Billings Scarlets to title repeat

MISSOULA — One bad inning cost the Kalispell Lakers in a 6-5 loss to the Billings Scarlets in the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class AA state baseball championship game on Sunday night at Lindborg-Cregg Field.

Twins advance to final day at State A baseball tournament

Glacier wallops Billings, will play Laurel in semis

GREAT FALLS — The Glacier Twins are back in title contention and swinging in top form after a 19-5 blowout of the Billings Cardinals in loser-out play at the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A state baseball tournament on Sunday at Centene Stadium.

Police called over garbage dispute

A caller on Eighth Avenue East North called the

Walk for Smith Valley Fire

Firefighters from Smith Valley, South Kalispell, Bigfork and Marion begin making laps in their gear on Sunday afternoon, July 31, at Legends Stadium. The walk was a fund raiser for the Smith Valley Fire Department after the fire that destroyed the Foy’s Lake Station. According to Smith Valley Fire Chief DC Hass the community has been very generous in the aftermath of the fire. “The public support has been very humbling, ” said Haas. “And the neighboring departments have been amazing.” (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

A+ college moving tips

OPINION: An opportunity to revitalize Kalispell City Airport

An old cowhand once lamented to me, “The trouble with opportunity is its name is wrote on its butt.” Sigh — so true.

OPINION: Still time to impeach Obama

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

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OPINION: Montana stream-access law is settled

Like other Montanans, I enjoy recreating on streams and public lands with my family. The abundance of recreational, hunting, and outdoor opportunities is part of what makes Montana the last best place.  

Rent increase forces C. Falls bookstore to close

The Columbia Falls Library Association pared down remaining inventory Saturday at its used bookstore as the nonprofit group closed the business.

Best of 2016

Billings man admits guilt for auto damage

A Billings man admitted Tuesday to leading multiple law enforcement agencies in a vehicle pursuit before crashing the stolen truck he was driving into eight parked vehicles at an Evergreen car dealership in January.

LETTER: A master in political game

Sen. Tester’s guest opinion in the July 10 Daily Inter Lake is another masterpiece.

ATHLETE OF THE YEAR: Ali Williams

Pitcher turned Pack softball into powerhouse

The best player, at the most premium position, is pretty hard to miss.

LETTER: Have the effects of wind power been studied enough?

One of my former physics professors told me “you don’t get nothing for nothing.” He was explaining that when we transform energy from one form to another, there is always something given up. An example might be that when we are pushing a lawnmower, we are converting calories in our body to kinetic energy that is moving our body and the lawnmower. One of the losses is productive energy in the form of heat.

LETTER: Compact required only a majority vote

In reply to letter by Jerry Laskody (DIL 7/28/2016):

ATHLETE OF THE YEAR: Luke May

Football, track star championed Whitefish resurgence

Legacies are built slowly, hardened through years of hard work and decidedly unglamorous hours behind the scenes.

OPINION: Gianforte, not Bullock, has Montanan values

Oftentimes the first casualty in politics is the truth. Currently, the Democrats are using out-of-state dark money to bastardize the truth relating to Greg Gianforte and stream access issues. In reality, Gianforte’s approach to stream access is the ideal balance between public access and property rights, which is where most Montanans position themselves.

Free lunch offered for law officers

A free lunch for law enforcement is being offered Aug. 1-3 at Dickey’s Barbecue Pit in Kalispell.

LETTER: Protect valuable water resources

The Flathead Valley is encircled by mountain ranges. As residents, we are both acutely aware of these mountains and what they mean: recreation, jobs, beauty; but they can also be easy to ignore as they stand there, apparently unchanging, as we go about our daily lives.

LETTER: Banning guns is not the solution

Steve Wheat, in a letter to the editor, says there is no record of an armed citizen stopping a shooting.

Busy, busy times in Glacier Park

‘We are at capacity in a lot of ways’

If the near-perfect summer weather, traffic jams, and record numbers of visitors swarming into Glacier National Park over the last six months are any indication, this July will be the busiest month in the park’s 106-year history.

LETTER: Water really belongs to all of us

In the Sunday letters to the editor, there again were a couple about the proposed bottling plant.

OPINION: Support transfer of bison range to tribes

One of the core principles of Montana Conservation Voters is the protection of our public lands as well as access to those public lands. At the state and federal level, MCV has vehemently opposed efforts to transfer or sell-off public lands to state or private ownership or even to study these misguided proposals. Such an effort would certainly lead to loss of access to pristine public lands and likely mismanagement by states who are inexperienced at multi-purpose land management.

2016 huckleberry crop looking better than last year

A wetter spring appears to have boosted this year’s huckleberry crop, according to local buyers who are breathing a sigh of relief after last year’s dismal, drought-stricken harvest.

OPINION: Bullock's public lands agenda gets thumbs-up from wilderness group

Last month, two anti-public lands bills came up for vote in the House Natural Resources Committee in Washington, D.C.

Researchers try to unlock berry mysteries

Huckleberry enthusiasm has been elevated to obsession in Northwest Montana, where purveyors of the seasonal fruit advertise products ranging from jams, pies, salads and milkshakes to candles, coffee, wine and beer — even huckleberry-flavored cartridges for electronic cigarettes.

COLUMN: Trip down memory lane takes a detour

My mother-in-law has been visiting for a few days, so the dinner-table conversation invariably has been dominated by reminiscing about my husband Tim’s childhood days.

Robert W. Selton Jr., 66

Robert “Bob” Selton of Longwood, Florida, passed away Monday, July 25, 2016, peacefully at home surrounded by family.

Robert Lyman Borden, 82

Robert “Bob” Borden passed away at his home peacefully surrounded by his family Tuesday, July 26, 2016, after a long battle with pulmonary fibrosis.

DAYBOOK, July 31

Patricia Laura Foltz, 96

Our loving mother, Patricia Laura Foltz, passed away in her sleep in the early morning hours of July 29, 2016, in Eureka, at Mt. View Manor.

Stephanie Ann (Brooks) Goldizen, 57

Stephanie “Steph” Ann (Brooks) Goldizen “went home to her beloved Jesus, father and brother” on Tuesday, July 26, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Elizabeth 'Betty' N. McGarry, 94

Elizabeth “Betty” N. McGarry was born on October 28, 1921, in Trochu, Alberta, Canada, to Frank and Mary D’Arcy.

Scott Matthew Downing, 52

Scott Matthew Downing passed peacefully on July 17, 2016, after a brief but courageous battle with cancer.

Harry Merle Shaw, 83

Merle Shaw passed away June 26, 2016, of natural causes at age 83 in Oceanside, California.

BASEBALL: Lakers still hitting at state tournament

MISSOULA — Leif Ericksen came out of the bullpen and gutted through six innings on the mound, then doubled home the go-ahead runs in the ninth inning to keep the Kalispell Lakers’ season alive with a 9-6 win over the Billings Scarlets on Saturday night at the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class AA state baseball tournament at Lindborg-Cregg Field.

Athlete of the Year finalists

BASEBALL: Bitterroot baffles Twins at state tournament

GREAT FALLS — The Bitterroot Red Sox continue to have the number of the Glacier Twins, scoring 13 runs in the first three innings to run away with a 15-2 victory in the championship semifinals at the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A state baseball tournament on Saturday at Centene Stadium.

COLUMN: Tower of Babel, a warning for the Information Age

LAW ROUNDUP: Woman escapes 'sex doll' hit

Patricia Laura Foltz, 96

KONICA MINOLTA DIGITAL CAMERA

Robert Lyman Borden, 82

Stephanie Ann (Brooks) Goldizen, 57

Harry Merle Shaw, 83

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A cowboy keeps the horses to the side of U.S. 2 near Columbia Heights during the Wild Horse Drive on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

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Traffic backs up on U.S. 2 as the Wild Horse Drive arrives at the Blue Moon on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Marieva Herman of Kalispell smiles as she goes down the zip line of the obstacle course of the Care Farm Challenge at Centennial Farm in West Valley on Saturday. About 60 people participated in the third annual challenge. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Olivia McQueen, left, is hugged by her sister Joanna after both finished the obstacle course during the third annual Care Farm Challenge on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Matt Bell smiles after climbing through a tire during the third annual Care Farm Challenge on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jesse Brown leads a group through the "Trench of Death," during the third annual Care Farm Challenge. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Cowboys and cowgirls start to lead a herd of horse from Columbia Heights to the Blue Moon on U.S. 2 during the Wild Horse Drive for Heritage Days on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Ali Williams

Glacier softball standout Ali Williams led the state in strikeouts and ERA as a senior, capping a historic prep career that saw the Wolfpack win a state championship in 2015. Williams will play at Carroll College next year. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Luke May

Whitefish graduate Luke May quarterbacked the Bulldogs to their first state championship since 1979. He also won his third straight Class A state javelin championship as a senior. May will compete in that event at the University of Minnesota as a collegian. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Local musicians perform at Red Ants Pants

The sixth annual Red Ants Pants Music Festival kicked off its 2016 event Thursday, and this year several Flathead Valley musicians are making the trip to White Sulphur Springs to perform.

RELIGION ROUNDUP: Church at Creston welcomes new pastor

The Rev. Kyle Winter will be installed as the new pastor of the Church at Creston-Lutheran on Sunday, Aug. 7, at a 4 p.m. worship service. Rev. Winter is replacing Rev. Darold Reiner as the pastor of this congregation.

Bigfork bridge options narrowed

The Swan River Bridge Steering Committee has narrowed down repair ideas for the historic Bigfork steel bridge from 20 options to six. The next step is bringing those options to a community that has voiced a love affair with the aging landmark.

Director maps out future of biological station

One year after he was introduced as the incoming director for the University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station, Jim Elser will provide his vision for the facility’s future at the station’s annual open house on Wednesday.

Whitefish bridge to close on weekdays

The Columbia Avenue bridge in Whitefish will be closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic Monday through Friday from Aug. 1 through Aug. 26 from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Whitefish police offer help to C. Falls

Whitefish has offered to provide temporary administrative assistance for the Columbia Falls Police Department while the city of Columbia Falls searches for a new police chief.

DAYBOOK, July 30

Melvin 'Mel' Wood Dobson, 81

Melvin ‘Mel’ Wood Dobson passed away Thursday, July 21, 2016, at Closer To Home Assisted Living in St. Ignatius.

FOOTBALL: 'Pack pipeline flows to MSU

Hashley, Gilman commit to ’Cats, will join five former Wolfpack players

Glacier High School standouts Tadan Gilman and Jaxen Hashley verbally committed to play football at Montana State University last week, continuing a pipeline from north Kalispell to Bozeman.

BASEBALL: Lakers, Twins stay alive in state tournaments

MISSOULA — The Kalispell Lakers scored eight times in the third inning and kept their season alive with a landslide 14-8 whipping of the Billings Royals in a loser-out game at the Montana/Alberta State AA tournament Friday at Lindborg-Cregg Field.

BRIEFS: 34th Annual Big Mountain Run Aug. 6

The Glacier Nordic Club will host its 34th annual Big Mountain Run on Saturday, Aug. 6 at 10 a.m.

LAW ROUNDUP: Packaged balls get cool reception

A man was sent a cryptic message on North Meridian Road after he allegedly opened a package containing just two golf balls, according to

Melvin 'Mel' Wood Dobson, 81

Director maps out future of biological station

Jim Elser, director of the Flathead Lake Biological Station.

Glacier's Tadan Gilman

Glacier's Tadan Gilman makes a cut as he attempts to elude a trio of Missoula Sentinel defenders during the first quarter at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier's Jaxen Hashley

Glacier's Jaxen Hashley leaps to try and knock down a pass against Helena in a 2015 regular season game. Hashley will continue his football career at Montana State, beginning in 2017. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Zinke presents citations to World War II veterans family

Congressman Ryan Zinke presents a Bronze Star Medal and a Combat Infantry Badge to Myrtle Veile and children on Friday afternoon, July 29 at the Whitefish VFW. Next to Myrtle in the photo is her daughter-in-law Mindy. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Balancing college and Olympic dreams: One athlete's story

The science of lawn care made simple

OPINION: For youngsters, cellphones are not harmless

I recently purchased a cat toy that was basically a stick with a string attached to a toy mouse. On the packaging were a series of warnings instructing me how to use the toy so that my cat wouldn’t be harmed. This got me wondering ... Do cellphones come with warnings? Should they?

LETTER: Look for better days with Donald Trump

The U.S. has got the finest forest service in the world — best trained in the science of timber management, soil and water disease, insects, etc. These are dedicated people.

LETTER: Governor blocks efforts to help infrastructure

There has been a lot of talk about infrastructure since the last Montana legislative session.

OPINION: Fault the speechwriter, not speaker

If I am interpreting the Inter Lake’s July 22 editorial correctly, Melania Trump’s plagiarism from Michelle Obama is a mortal sin. She took such unique Michelle Obama thoughts as, “you work hard for what you want in life,” “your word is your bond” and “you treat people with respect.”

LETTER: Keep up the good work, readers say

I am an 86-year-old resident of a care home, and another resident, age 83, and I look forward every Sunday to Frank Miele’s column “Editor’s 2 Cents,” which is well-written and informative.

Ninja Kids Camp

Allyssa Conrad climbs a rope to proceed to the next obstacle at Ninja Kids Camp on Wednesday morning, July 27, at Access Fitness. The camp began eight weeks ago and Holguin said Conrad gets his vote for consistent improvement. “When she first started, she couldn’t climb that rope.” The camp runs in 8 week segments. For information on the next camp go to www.danholguinfitness.com and select Ninja Kids from the Programs menu. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Rollover

Kalispell Fire Department firefighters work to extricate the driver of a Pontiac Vibe after it rolled over in a one vehicle accident on Forth Avenue East and Sixth South on Thursday. The driver suffered minor injuries in the accident. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

WEEKEND UPDATE: Columbia Falls Heritage Days

Heritage Days in Columbia Falls continues this weekend.

Wage growth a high point in Flathead economy

While the local timber industry continues to struggle, Flathead County has experienced overall wage growth surpassing the state’s average, economic analysts said Thursday at the 11th annual economic update in Kalispell.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Advance carnival tickets on sale

North Star Amusements and Paradise Amusements will light up the Midway at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo with a variety of rides and games, including an expanded area for young children and the G-Force and Vertigo rides for thrill seekers.

Major misuse of Olney fire money alleged

Tiny district spends $167,000 in a year

Residents of the small community of Olney north of Whitefish are calling for an investigation into possible embezzlement within the local fire department, alleging that tens of thousands of tax dollars were misappropriated within the past year.

Kalispell museum seeks donors for repair bills

The Museum at Central School in Kalispell is seeking donations to help balance a budget shortfall resulting from unexpected repairs.

Michael Douglas Donahue, 23

Michael passed away on July 25, 2016, in Kalispell.

S. Keith Connors, 73

S. Keith Connors, 73, “arrived in the loving arms of our Lord” at his home on Monday, July 25, 2016, at 73 years old, after a courageous battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

EDITORIAL: Paving a promising sign for drivers

The asphalt onslaught has begun on Kalispell’s U.S. 93 bypass, a welcome indicator that the final stages of construction on the new highway are underway.

BASEBALL: Twins start state tourney with win

Lakers blown out at AA state tournament

GREAT FALLS — Jonny Sapa spun eight stellar innings, James Sampson-Keck went 4 for 5 and the Glacier Twins opened the Montana/Alberta State A tournament by routing the Laurel Dodgers 8-2 at Centene Stadium on Thursday afternoon.

Junior America's Cup leaderboard

COLUMN: Unpopular Hellgate decision the right one

We’re not supposed to embrace quitters.

Senior leaderboard

Women's leaderboard

GOLF: Crippen, Bryson win Women's Amateur titles

Kalispell’s Teigan Avery finishes 2nd, Libby’s Mee third

HELENA — Missoula’s Maggie Crippen needed only to hold on during the final round of play at the Montana State Women’s Amateur golf championships on Thursday at Green Meadow Country Club, finishing at 2-over-par to win her second state amateur title by seven strokes.

GOLF: Libby's Ryggs Johnston finishes 5th at Junior America's Cup

Finishes tourney at 3-under-par, Montana team ends in tie for 15th

GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Libby’s Ryggs Johnston closed his final round at 1-over-par, finishing in a tie for fifth at 3-under-par in the Junior America’s Cup on Thursday at Guadalajara Country Club. Washington’s Ryan Maine won the tournament by two strokes at 8-under-par.

Major misuse of Olney fire money alleged

LAW ROUNDUP: Two Bear Air has busy Wednesday

Michael Douglas Donahue, 23

Five Reasons For Women To Take Charge of Their Reproductive Health

Brain foods: Eating for academic success

LETTER: A real leader would accept climate change

Recently Sen. Daines claimed two power plants in Colstrip will be shut down, blaming it on “fringe extreme environmentalist groups” etc.

LETTER: Water compact vote unconstitutional

In  April 2015, the Flathead Joint Board of Control filed a complaint in Montana’s 20th Judicial District disputing the legality of the Montana Legislature’s vote passing SB262, the CSKT Water Compact Bill.

LETTER: Retaliation spawns continuing troubles

“As you sow, so shall you reap.”

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Sylvan Drive project begins Aug. 1

LHC Inc. will begin construction on Sylvan Drive in Kalispell for the installation of a new storm sewer and treatment system.

N. Carolina man charged with dealing drugs

A North Carolina man has been charged with two counts of felony criminal distribution of dangerous drugs in addition to felony criminal possession with intent to distribute.

COLUMN: Boating - and boats - keep getting bigger and better

Wow, summer fun in the Flathead! During the last few days, the weather has been perfect for enjoying the hundreds of lakes and streams of Northwest Montana.

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Youths invited to earn Junior Ranger Badges

The youngest park visitors are invited to earn their official Junior Ranger Badges at Lone Pine State Park from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, July 30.

Paving begins on U.S. 93 bypass

$33.8 million project expected to open to traffic by November

Construction crews started paving Kalispell’s $33.8 million, 4.5-mile bypass Tuesday, marking a milestone as the public works project stays on pace to open this fall.

Whitefish hospital fills key positions

After months of transitions, North Valley Hospital has announced that it has filled three key positions with new leadership in recent weeks.

EDITORIAL: Lend a hand to our firefighters

Public-safety organizations from across the Flathead Valley and beyond will converge Sunday on Legends Stadium in Kalispell ­— and everyone is invited to join in.

Young grizzly moved to Cabinet Mountains

State wildlife officials successfully relocated and released a grizzly bear in the Cabinet Mountains on Monday, according to a press release from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Dogs seized after search of Charlo kennel

Owners likely to be charged later this week

Owners of a Charlo kennel are likely facing felony animal cruelty charges after the Lake County Sheriff’s Office searched the facility Tuesday morning and found more than 100 dogs living in cages.

DAYBOOK, July 28

DAYBOOK, July 29

This Week in the Flathead | July 28 - Aug. 3

Classical concert series ready for a ninth season

Festival Amadeus

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale is gearing up for Festival Amadeus, a classical concert series in its ninth season.

Festival Amadeus Lineup

Keith M. Schuman, 64

Keith M. Schuman passed away July 24, 2016, at his home in Sherwood, Oregon.

Glacier Twins look for repeat performance at state baseball tournament

GREAT FALLS — Coming off a 23-2 loss doesn’t usually inspire confidence.

DRAG RACING: The Flathead's fastest

It smells like gasoline, it’s completely volunteer run and $40 buys you a chicken dinner, a T-shirt and plenty of time to kick back around the bonfire.

Missoula's Crippen pulls away at Women's State Am golf

HELENA — Missoula’s Maggie Crippen pulled away from the field in the second round of the Montana State Women’s Amateur golf championships on Wednesday at Green Meadow Country Club, carding the only round under par to carry a comfortable lead into the final day of play.

Drag Racing

Peggy Hosler-Hayes and Eric Hayes stand in front of the 1967 Camaro he built. The two will be racing at the Flathead Drag Race Challenge in Anaconda this weekend. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Keith M. Schuman, 64

LAW ROUNDUP: Woman calls with dagger in her leg

The Shtrykov-Tanaka Duo

The Shtrykov-Tanaka Duo — pianist Misuzu Tanaka and clarinetist Maksim Shtrykov — will perform as guest artists at this year’s Festival Amadeus.

Festival Amadeus

The Glacier Symphony performs during the annual Festival Amadeus event at a previous the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. The 2016 Festival Amadeus begins Aug. 8.

Goguen sues Missouri candidate for defamation

Whitefish businessman Michael Goguen has taken to the offensive in an effort to mend his public image.

Is Generation Z solely digital? How today's students learn best

Crave a fun, illuminating vacation? Visit a lighthouse!

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Rollers compact the asphalt plant mix on the bike path on the side of the U.S. 93 Bypass near Four Mile Road on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The northbound off ramp of the U.S. 93 Bypass at Old Reserve Drive has been paved. The paving of the rest of the bypass is scheduled to start on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

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Rollers compact the asphalt plant mix on the bike path on the side of the U.S. 93 Bypass near Four Mile Road on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Five injured in three-vehicle crash

Five people were injured Wednesday morning in a three-vehicle collision at the Ashley Lake green-box site on U.S. 2 West.

Man killed after stabbing Montana deputy

HELENA (AP) — A Phillips County sheriff's deputy shot and killed a man Wednesday morning during a confrontation along U.S. 191 southwest of Malta.

Paddle boarder drowns in Flathead Lake

A paddle boarder drowned Tuesday evening in Flathead Lake off the Rocky Point area near Polson.

Beyond sports: Off-the-field afterschool activities to challenge your child

5 ways to say goodbye to your 'sad desk lunch'

5 ways to save on summer fun

County approves revised lakeshore rules

Two-permit system in place for Whitefish

The Flathead County commissioners on Monday unanimously adopted an overhaul of the county’s lakeshore protection regulations.

Mom's deferred sentence revoked after drug relapse

Treatment success will be a factor in court deliberations

A Kalispell mother’s deferred sentence for felony criminal endangerment was revoked Thursday after she violated conditions of her probation.

Leading biopharmaceutical company's smartphone app gives patients the power to help ensure medication serial numbers are authentic

Big crowd expected for firefighting fundraiser

Local fire departments will team up Sunday with law enforcement and natural resource agencies for a community fundraiser to support the Smith Valley Fire Department in the wake of a destructive fire at its Foy’s Lake station earlier this month.

Challenges ahead for the adventurous

Third annual event planned on Saturday

A Kalispell farmer and a crew of five people with disabilities worked Tuesday morning to convert a pasture into an obstacle course.

Backpack season: 7 tips toward a comfortable pack

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Four days of fun planned in C. Falls

The annual Heritage Days celebration in Columbia Falls starts today and runs through Sunday with activities and fun for all ages.

DAYBOOK, July 27

Nicki Ward, 38

On July 16, 2016, we lost Nicki Ward, 38, in an auto accident.

Marian L. Fehrman, 94

Marian L. Fehrman, 94, passed away on July 24, 2016, at WelCov Assist?ed ?Living Kalispell.

Tournament leaderboard

Senior Amateur leaderboard

Women's Amateur leaderboard

Tournament homepage

BASEBALL: Lakers draw Helena in AA tourney

Kalispell Lakers AA coach Ryan Malmin “was hoping this year would be the” year it would finally happen.

GOLF: Libby's Johnston leads at Junior America's Cup

Phenom tied for first in Mexico with 3-under 69

GUADALAJARA, Mexico — Libby’s Ryggs Johnston shot 3-under-par 69 on the first day of the Junior America’s Cup golf tournament on Tuesday at Guadalajara Country Club, tying for the lead with four other golfers from the Western United States, Mexico and Canada.

GOLF: Whitefish's Schulz in 2nd place at State Women's Amateur

HELENA — Whitefish’s Coral Schulz birdied her last two holes to finish the first round of the Montana State Women’s Amateur at 2-over-par, one stroke back of the lead on Tuesday at Green Meadow Country Club.

Marian L. Fehrman, 94

Nicki Ward, 38

Bigfork man identified as Montana 35 crash victim

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office has released the name of an 83-year-old Bigfork man killed in a Monday afternoon head-on collision on Montana 35 east of Kalispell.

Water-plant comments extended

State officials have extended the window for public comments on a draft water quality permit for a proposed water bottling plant near Creston, while a public hearing is still scheduled for Aug. 1.

Flower Boxes

Elaine Strand prunes up her flowers on Monday morning, July 25, in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Preparing for the Care Farm Challenge

Andrew Williams rides down the zip line during the building of obstacles for the upcoming Care Farm Challenge at the Centennial Farm in West Valley on Tuesday morning, July 26. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

5 tips to keep your cellphone running smoothly

LETTER: There are some benefits from bottling plant

I’ve never written a letter to editor before, but needed to voice a positive opinion on the Creston bottling plant.

LETTER: Any water bottling plant is a very bad idea

Back to the Creston Water Bottling Plant again. If you have been paying attention you know by now that the water-bottling plant in Creston has applied for a permit to bottle 1.2 BILLION bottles per year.

Kalispell man sentenced for sixth DUI

A Kalispell man was sentenced to the Montana Department of Corrections following his sixth DUI.

LETTER: Stand firmly behind our officers in blue

Hey, all you decent citizens of America. We better stand firmly behind our men in blue. We should never send one to jail or jury duty, not guilty every time. In this violent society that we are subject to on a daily basis, we need our law enforcement to keep law and order. They know what it’s all about because they’re in it every day. They make split-second decisions — their lives depend on it. They have to know who you are and they have to see some hands, black or white or any other race. If you don’t get it you better start getting it because we stand behind our men in blue, period.

LETTER: Believe in God to find answer to world's woes

So, one must mumble with gritted teeth the inevitable question in this unique election year....Whom between two unsettling characters do I trust to lead a nation sharply divided from within and threatened from without? A society torn by festering internal racial unrest while bullied by sadistic external fanatics of no conscience.

LETTER: 'La Mancha' is must-see theater event

Alpine Theatre Project’s “Man of La Mancha,” starring Susan O’Dea and Metropolitan Opera Principal Baritone Jeff Mattsey, is easily the best theatrical production we have seen since moving to the Flathead in 1979. The songs, the acting, the incredible singing, the captivating dancing — and the brilliantly creative staging — will leave you stunned and grinning and convinced that you were lucky enough to snag tickets for a sellout show on Broadway.

Healthy hacks for sneaking whole grains, veggies into kids' meals

5 Ways to Keep Skin Healthy and Beautiful this Summer

The art of innovation: The key to unlocking creative blocks

Local history fanatic eyes opera house restoration

A relative newcomer to Kalispell has set his sights on restoring one of the city’s historic crown jewels: the 1896 McIntosh Opera House.

Driver pleads not guilty to child endangerment

Rhonda Lee Doan, 35, of Kalispell pleaded not guilty to felony criminal child endangerment on Thursday in Flathead County District Court.

Campers complain about threats

A group of campers told

Benny Hoerner, 63

Ronald Earl 'Ron' Benesh, 80

Ronald Earl “Ron” Benesh passed away unexpectedly on July 6, 2016, at his home in Kalispell.

Highway 35 Fatal Accident

A Creston firefighter directs traffic past the scene of a fatal head on collision on the west bound lane of US 35 on Monday afternoon, July 25. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana 35 crash

Fatal crash slows Montana 35 traffic

A head-on collision east of Kalispell Monday afternoon left one man dead and another man injured after a Jeep reportedly crossed over the center line of Montana 35.

Browning man found dead in Glacier Park campground

A 48-year-old Browning man was found dead by a group of photography students at Two Medicine Campground in Glacier National Park early Friday morning.

Grant will improve telemedicine network

Kalispell Regional Medical Center has been awarded a $373,658 grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help reduce the gaps between the hospital and its patients in rural areas.

Casino, tavern proposed near Happy Valley

A casino with a restaurant and bar planned at the intersection of U.S. 93 and Hodgson Road near Happy Valley will be considered by the Flathead County Board of Adjustment at a public hearing on Aug. 2.

At Home July Cover

Back-to-School Tips for Parents of Children with ADHD

SpiritWorks Herb Farm steeped in healing arts

Rural sanctuary

Carolyn “Lindy” Dewey bought her 10 acres of wooded paradise near Whitefish five years ago as a place where she could grow an organic garden.

Bucking the trend at The Event at Rebecca Farm

Buck Davidson sat in a familiar position after two phases of the CCI3* triathlon at The Event at Rebecca Farm. That position, unfortunately for him, was second place.

Baseball: Red Sox rip Twins in Western A District title game

FLORENCE — The Bitterroot Red Sox scored early, and often, to drill the Glacier Twins 23-2 in the championship game of the Western District A American Legion baseball tournament on Sunday afternoon.

OPINION: Is the system working against grizzly bears?

When I first arrived in Badrock Canyon, Montana, near Glacier National Park and the Great Bear Wilderness 15 years ago, after moving here from taking early retirement from an aerospace engineering career in Denver, Colorado, in order to help save the grizzly bear from the likes of Dr. Chris Servheen of U.S. Fish and Wildlife, I immediately immersed myself in attending as many meetings on grizzly bears as I could find.

OPINION: Blackfoot Clearwater project seen as teaching tool

Two years ago, Outside Magazine named Seeley Lake Elementary the best place to work in the entire country. Having one of the largest outdoor recreation publications pay us this honor was a testament to the amazing colleagues, supportive parents, and professional development that make working at our school such a joy.

LETTER: Vote for Juneau

The state of Montana has the choice of Denise Juneau or Ryan Zinke for our next U.S. congressperson. Who will you vote for?  Consider the following:

Woman denies assault charge

Loretta Maldonado, 42, of Kalispell pleaded not guilty to felony assault with a weapon in Flathead County District Court on Thursday.

OPINION: 'Elder power' can help guide world to better place

If you are under 35, don’t read this letter. It’s not for you. It’s for people with over 60 or 70 years of life experience. It’s for those of us who are worried about a future for our kids and grandkids.

Laps turn out to be a lullaby

A concerned caller told the

LETTER: Bottling plant owner needs to be liable for added costs

I’m not a hydrologist, just someone who believes in fairness. I also don’t live in or near Creston. I also am not a lawyer and don’t know the laws regarding commercial water use.

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At Home July

OPINION: Want a bottling plant in your backyard?

Montana Artesian Water Co,. located in Creston, is seeking a water right permit from the state to pump 710 acre-feet of water annually from the underground aquifer, which is the equivalent of 1.2 billion 20-ounce water bottles.

OPINION: Tribes should not be granted possession of bison range

I wish to voice my strong objections to the proposal that the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes be given possession of the National Bison Range located at Moiese.

BY KIDS: Summer Poems

Summer Vacation

Man pleads not guilty to child-porn charges

A Kalispell man pleaded not guilty to two counts of sexual abuse of children after law enforcement allegedly found videos and images of child pornography.

LETTER: It's time to end or reform the death penalty

America’s death penalty systems, regardless of which state, are much more than that ... they are, in fact, varying degrees of torture — lethal injection, hanging, electrocution — all painful and drawn out methods of demise. We have many low cost drugs that simply induce a painless everlasting sleep. For that matter, simple carbon monoxide poisoning is painless and, by now, we all know there is an abundance of that stuff!

Special clinic offers nighttime pet care

When it comes to pets, accidents happen.

LETTER: GOP convention comparable to Nazi propaganda

Having just watched — basically gavel to gavel — the chaotic fiasco that was the Republican convention, I am reminded of the propaganda spewed by Joseph Goebbels:  

OPINION: Reflections from the RNC in Cleveland

Delegate enthusiastic about GOP chances after convention

The questions I had when signing up to be a delegate in May to the Republican National Convention were laid to rest when I arrived in Cleveland last week.

Novel therapy for burn victims

Columbia Falls twins pursue Pikachu at Seattle hospital

SEATTLE — Priscilla and Olivia Wagoner, 10-year-old twins at Harborview Medical Center, aren’t thinking of the severe burns that kept them in the hospital for about two weeks and away from their home in Columbia Falls.

Two of three kids out of hospital

Both Priscilla and Olivia Wagoner of Columbia Falls were discharged from Harborview Medical Center on Tuesday, according to hospital spokeswoman Susan Gregg.

Fundraiser puts food bank over the top

In one night on Wednesday, the Bigfork Food Bank went from being $13,000 in debt to having money in the bank after a community charity event pulled in the funds needed to pay off the center’s newest building.

Aeneas summit popular with hikers, wildlife

Hikers heading to the summit of Mount Aeneas in the Jewel Basin Hiking Area have to share the trail with four-legged wildlife on the final ridge climb.

Lester H. 'Les' Carter, 76

Les Carter, 76, passed away July 21, 2016, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Wesley Gordon Emmert, 22

Wesley Gordon Emmert, 22, died peacefully at home on July 18, 2016.

Ruth M. Trush, 89

Ruth M. Trush, 89, passed away on Dec. 3, 2015, at her home in Lynnwood, Washington.

John Carl Stenberg, 89

John Carl Stenberg, 89, of Mitchell, Nebraska, died Thursday, July 14, 2016, at home, after a long, courageous battle with cancer.

DAYBOOK, July 24

COLUMN: Woody Weekend a major success

The Flathead Valley has been drawing some wild weather cards so far this summer but that didn’t put a damper on Whitefish Woody Weekend V.

EDITORIAL: Flag should not bend to terrorists

Lisa Lee Brown, 56

Lisa Lee Brown, 56, passed away July 11, 2016, in her home in Vancouver, Washington, comforted by her family. She was born on Aug. 30, 1959 in Missoula to her parents, Sandra Wrightson and John Lee. Lisa grew up in Northwestern Montana, where she graduated from Columbia Falls High School. She also attended Eastern Montana College.

Glacier grad at home at The Event

Just ask international-level rider Ashlynn Meuchel: people around the eventing world love coming the Flathead Valley.

BASEBALL: Lakers edge pair of wins to stay alive at Western A tourney

FLORENCE — For the third time in the four games the Kalispell Lakers edged out a one-run victory at the Montana/Alberta American Legion Western A District baseball tournament, defeating the host Bitterroot Bucs 4-3 on Saturday afternoon to advance one game away from a spot at the state tournament.

BASEBALL: Lakers AA sweep final homestand

The Kalispell Lakers AA cruised into the postseason, sweeping Butte 3-0 and 11-1 in its final American Legion baseball home series at Griffin Field on Saturday.

Kalispell's Porch wins State Amateur golf

Glacier grad only finisher under par

LAUREL — Holding a healthy lead entering the final round, Kalispell’s Ryan Porch played it safe on a blustery Saturday at the 99th Montana State Men’s Amateur golf tournament, clinching the championship with a 1-over-par 73 to win by nine strokes.

LAW ROUNDUP: Youth allegedly assaulted in van drive-by

A van drive-by assault reportedly occurred on Glenwood Drive when a boy longboarding on the side of the road with friends reported that a dark-colored van containing a “mom, daughter and two kids in the back” was following them and allegedly pulled over. The youth told

COLUMN: Trump's vision of hope looks dark to media elites

The word of the day is “disconnect.”

Wesley Gordon Emmert, 22

Lester H. 'Les' Carter, 76

John Carl Stenberg, 89

Ruth M. Trush, 89

Lisa Lee Brown, 56

Special clinic offers nighttime pet care

Flathead Pet Emergency's Vella Ballard helps Buster, who is suffering from pancreatitis, back into his crate after being checked over on Monday evening, July 18. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Aeneas summit popular with hikers, wildlife

The summit of Mount Aeneas at 7,528 feet affords an expansive view to the east of Great Northern Mountain and Glacier National Park.

Novel therapy for burn victims

Olivia Wagoner, left, walks with her sister Priscilla as they use the new Pokemon Go app to hunt down characters. (Sy Bean/Seattle Times/TNS)

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Mary Burke riding Prince William goes over the Brush Drop to Dinosaur obstacle during the CIC3* cross country at The Event at Rebecca Farm on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Tamra Smith on Dempsey knocks over a flag at the corner obstacle during the CIC3* cross country at The Event at Rebecca Farm. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Gina Economou on Calidore soars off the Drop to Water obstacle during the CCI3* cross country during The Event at Rebecca Farm on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Maddy Mazzola on Mojito jumps over the Drop Log as specators watch during the CCI3* cross country during The Event at Rebecca Farm on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Man challenges kidnapping charge

In Flathead District Court on Thursday, Jason Tad Pennington, 39, pleaded not guilty to felony kidnapping and felony assault with a weapon.

New dam for Libby officially dedicated

LIBBY — City, state and federal officials and a handful of Libby residents gathered at the Flower Creek Dam on Wednesday for the official dedication of the project completed earlier this year.

Air-training academy

Hovig YaRalian of Sands Unmanned Aviation and Unmanned Systems Inc. controls a Sandstorm trainer as Bob Schneller, the squadron commander of Civil Air Patrol Flathead Composite Squadron 053, watches on Thursday. The flight was part of a training academy at the Sands Concepts and Unmanned Systems Inc. facility near Columbia Falls. Twelve Civil Air Patrol cadets from 11 states attended the five-day academy. Yaralian and Justin Sands, an owner of Sands Unmanned Aviation and Unmanned Systems Inc., provided the training.

Teresa Renee Cargill, 46

Teresa Renee Cargill, 46, passed away at her home, surrounded by her family, on Sunday, July 17, 2016, after a courageous battle with AML leukemia.

DAYBOOK, July 23

Twins advance to semis at Western A districts

FLORENCE — The Glacier Twins pushed across two runs in the sixth inning to tough out a 4-2 win against the host Bitterroot Bucs on Friday at the Montana/Alberta American Legion Western A District baseball tournament.

Kalispell's Porch pulls away at State Am

Makes 8 birdies, holds 7-stroke lead

LAUREL — Kalispell’s Ryan Porch attacked a tough course at Laurel Golf Club on Friday, firing eight birdies on a day most golfers struggled to make par to increase his lead to seven strokes after the second round of the Montana State Amateur tournament.

Young star faces tall task in The Event's open class

Day 2: Competitors of all ages, experience tackle cross country

Taylor McFall, a rider in the Novice open division at The Event at Rebecca Farm, gets understandably awestruck watching the top-level riders conquer the challenging CCI3* cross-country course.

LAW ROUNDUP: Blustery day creates problems

Strong winds caused problems across a wide swath of the Flathead Valley on Friday afternoon. A boat capsized on Flathead Lake near Woods Bay, an unoccupied boat was reported to have sunk in Whitefish Lake and trees were reported blown down on several roads.

Campaign 2016 Clinton

In this July 14, 2016, file photo, Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton, accompanied by Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Va., speaks at a rally at Northern Virginia Community College in Annandale, Va. Clinton has chosen Kaine to be her running mate (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)

Hillary Clinton chooses Va. Sen. Kaine as running mate

ORLANDO, Florida  — Hillary Clinton named Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine as her vice presidential running mate Friday, adding a centrist former governor of a crucial battleground state to the Democratic ticket.

Man who is 'danger to society' gets long prison sentence

A judge complied with the wishes of a Kalispell child molester and went beyond the recommendations of prosecutors in sentencing him to 60 years in Montana State Prison for sexually assaulting two underage girls in 2010 and 2015.

Air-training academy

Hovig YaRalian of Sands Unmanned Aviation and Unmanned Systems Inc. controls a Sandstorm trainer as Bob Schneller, the squadron commander of Civil Air Patrol Flathead Composite Squadron 053, watches on Thursday. The flight was part of a training academy at the Sands Concepts and Unmanned Systems Inc. facility near Columbia Falls. Twelve Civil Air Patrol cadets from 11 states attended the five-day academy. Yaralian and Justin Sands, an owner of Sands Unmanned Aviation and Unmanned Systems Inc., provided the training.

Teresa Renee Cargill, 46

Taylor McFall

Taylor McFall on Kilbarry Prince clears an obstacle during the Novice B cross country at The Event at Rebecca Farm on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Rose Johnsrud brings a dish of St. Malo chicken to a table at Alley Connection. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flathead Wakeboard Academy owner Drew Hollinger does a flip while giving a demostration at Echo Lake in July. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Haley Abbett on Limitless clears an obstacle during the Novice B cross country during The Event at Rebecca Farm on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jennifer McFall riding Be Real clears an obstacle during the Novice B cross country during The Event at Rebecca Farm on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Cypress: The natural choice for siding

LETTER: Support police

Hey, all you decent citizens of America. We better stand firmly behind our men in blue. In this violent society that we are subject to on a daily basis, we need our law enforcement to keep law and order. They know what it’s all about because they’re in it every day. They make split-second decisions — their lives depend on it. They have to know who you are, and they have to see some hands, black or white or any other race. If you don’t get it, you better start getting it because we stand behind our men in blue, period.

Election update: Americans want action on housing and credit [Video]

LETTER: Gun control won't stop the killing

Response to Steve Wheat’s letter on June 15:

LETTER: Support changes in forest plan

In late May, the U.S. Forest Service published its proposed alternatives for the management of the Flathead National Forest. The management plan ultimately selected will be in effect for the next 20 years — and most likely well beyond that. So this is important to all of us. Until the public comment period ends Oct. 3, we have the opportunity to weigh in on the alternatives, and the Forest Service will consider our input.

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Wheaton's Cycle owner Margaret LeKander stands with her crew in front of Kalispell's oldest bike shop. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Brie and Smokehouse Bacon Burger at Hops Downtown Grill. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Joseph Price

Joseph Price, the new Somers-Lakeside School District Superintendent, stands in a classroom at Somers Middle School on Wednesday.

WEEKEND UPDATE: The Event at Rebecca Farm

The Event at Rebecca Farm is this weekend west of Kalispell.

Outdoor expo aims to help out veterans

On Saturday, some of the Flathead Valley’s top firearms manufacturers and outdoor companies will work with the Veterans Family of Brands to hold an outdoor expo in Bigfork that prioritizes supporting those who have served in the military.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Rumble in the Bay events planned Sept. 4 in Bigfork

Bigfork’s Rumble in the Bay is Sunday, Sept. 4, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. in downtown Bigfork.

High court won't combine lake erosion cases

The Montana Supreme Court on Monday denied a request for a single jury to hear related cases on Flathead Lake shoreline erosion

Ruling may not affect compact

State, tribes OK with decision; irrigators considering appeal

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes on Thursday joined Montana officials in endorsing a state judge’s decision Monday to uphold all but a portion of the tribal water compact, while the group of irrigators behind the lawsuit weighs the possibility of an appeal.

Two Bear flies far for rescue work

About once per week, the helicopter pilots at Two Bear Air Rescue get called upon to assist in search-and-rescue missions far from the Flathead Valley, traveling hundreds of miles from their airport hangar near Kalispell.

EDITORIAL: Plagiarism can't be taken lightly

Stolen words in a campaign speech are no big deal, if you listen to operatives of the Donald Trump campaign.

Marc Linthacum Marker, 74

Marc Linthacum Marker passed away at age 74 on May 28, 2016, in Marin County while awaiting surgery at the University of California, San Francisco Medical Center.

DAYBOOK, July 22

Terry Yunker, 64

With great sadness we acknowledge the passing of Dr. Terry Yunker, 64, on July 20, 2016, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Betty Goeddertz, 72

Betty Goeddertz, 72, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully on July 18, 2016, following a lengthy illness, with her daughter by her side.

Legion AA baseball: Kalispell Lakers sweep Great Falls

The Kalispell Lakers AA team bounced back from a disappointing loss on Wednesday night to sweep the Great Falls Chargers 11-1 and 9-2 in an American Legion Class AA baseball doubleheader on Thursday at Griffin Field.

Kalispell's Schmid struggles at National High School Finals Rodeo

GILLETTE, Wyo. — Kalispell’s Heidi Schmid fell off the pace she set in her first go, finishing 26th in her second pole bending performance at the National High School Finals Rodeo on Thursday at the CAM-PLEX Event Center.

Day 1 riders set the stage at The Event

Oft-dismissed dressage a critical test of horse, rider unity

Just saying the word out loud makes eyes start to roll.

COLUMN: Fantastical fun on the farm

It sounds like a children’s book come to life.

BASEBALL: Lakers, Twins open Western A district play with wins

Kalispell, Glacier take first-round games at legion baseball tourney

FLORENCE — The Glacier Twins hit around in the first inning, scoring six runs to lead off an 11-1 rout of the Libby Loggers in the first round of the Montana/Alberta American Legion Western A district baseball tournament on Thursday.

GOLF: Kalispell's Porch leads State Am

Whitefish’s Mance in second; Kalispell’s Iverson tied for fourth

LAUREL — Kalispell’s Ryan Porch birdied his first three holes on the way to a 4-under-par round and a one stroke lead after the first round of the Montana State Amateur golf championships on Thursday at Laurel Golf Club.

LAW ROUNDUP: Beyond 'hangry' - man kills pig

An arrest was made on Pleasant Valley Road in Marion when someone called

Terry Yunker, 64

Betty Goeddertz, 72

Marc Linthacum Marker, 74

Taken by Lois Sturgis Artist-Wilderness-Connection

Dressage

Paige Dinnie performs on Justjack during the CCI1 dressage at The Event at Rebecca Farm on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Top reasons why Toronto is the ultimate stopover city this summer

LETTER: Gun control makes no sense

On the Inter Lake’s July 15 Opinion page, there was an inane letter by Steve Wheat of Polson pertaining to the Second Amendment. Mr. Wheat apparently wants to restrict private ownership of weapons by normal law-abiding Americans.

LETTER: How to respond if stopped by police officers

This is about policing in America.

LETTER: Republicans can't get under Obama's skin

Life must be difficult right now for those who try to criticize and spew forth nasty attacks at President Obama. They can’t seem to land any punches. In trying to follow my spiritual teachings since childhood, this calls for having compassion for those throwing the punches. It must be so frustrating. Just what can you do with a man so obviously undeterred by your attacks?

LETTER: Montana's native species need protection

Warren Illi continues his praise for alien species in his latest sermon in the Inter Lake (July 14). His discourse in support of nonnative fish claims to be about the “realities” of fisheries management although his main point seems to be that we should ignore reality and accept the distorted version of nature that we have created.

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Lake Mary Ronan perch fishing poses a challenge

I recently fished Lake Mary Ronan, guiding a grandfather/grandson to some yellow perch fishing.

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Life cycles explored in Whitefish Trail workshop

Whitefish Legacy Partners is inviting the public to spend this morning at the Whitefish Trail Learning Pavilion exploring the life cycles, food webs and social networks of local insects.

Summer brain gain: STEM activities gauranteed to excite kids

Glacier 'bark ranger' starts patrols

Recently when Glacier Park biologist Mark Biel got up to the Logan Pass parking lot with his trained collie, there was a bighorn ram and ewe in the parking lot, too close to visitors.

County still studying lakeshore rule changes

The Flathead County commissioners spent well over an hour on Monday fine-tuning proposed changes to county lakeshore regulations, but delayed a decision on the regulation overhaul that has been in the works for two years.

Judge rules in favor of logging project

A lawsuit holding up a 39 million-board-foot logging project in the Kootenai National Forest was rejected Tuesday by a federal judge, but Alliance for the Wild Rockies Executive Director Mike Garrity says he plans to appeal the decision.

DAYBOOK, July 21

This Week in the Flathead | July 21-27

Boyd Patrick Clark, 56

Boyd Patrick Clark died unexpectedly in the Faith Lutheran Nursing Home on July 15, 2016, in Wolf Point, at the age of 56.

EDITORIAL: Heavirland earns a ride to Rio

We’re bursting with pride over Nicole Heavirland’s accomplishments in the sport of rugby. The Whitefish standout athlete was named one of two travel reserves for the national rugby sevens team that will represent the U.S.A. in the Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro next month. While she missed the cut for a spot in the final team of 12, she will travel with the team to be used in case someone is injured.

Charles 'Chuck' Spilis, 78

Charles “Chuck” Spilis, 78, passed away May 29, 2016, in Kalispell, at the Heritage Place.

Geraldine 'Pat' Barten, 83

Geraldine “Pat” Barten, 83, passed away Sunday, July 17, 2016, at the Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Montana nightlife at the Blue Moon

Summer has kicked into cowboy-boot-wearing, belt-buckling, beer-drinking high gear at the Blue Moon Nite Club in Columbia Falls.

Kert Lee Dolechek, 51

Kert Lee Dolechek of Kalispell lost his life in a tragic car accident July 16, 2016.

More than horsing around

BASEBALL: Chargers steamroll Lakers AA

Great Falls pounds 17 hits, routs Kalispell AA in series opener

Dawson Reiman drove in four runs and Great Falls scored five times in the fifth inning, kick-starting an offensive landslide that culminated in a 13-4 Chargers blowout of the Kalispell Lakers on Wednesday night at Griffin Field in the opener of a three-game series between the American Legion AA foes.

TERRY COLUMN: Lakers A playing tournament baseball

Pitching and defense.

BASEBALL: Local teams look to catch momentum at Western A

Tournament opens today in Florence

FLORENCE — The American Legion Baseball Western A district championships begin today with five Northwestern teams in the mix.

EQUESTRIAN: The Event begins Thursday at Rebecca Farm

The Event at Rebecca Farm returns for the 15th year when festivities kick off this morning in the West Valley.

TUESDAY BRIEFS: Restaurants to raise money for CFBA; two locals reach MOA Hall of Fame

WHITEFISH — The Glacier Restaurant Group will be holding a fundraiser on Aug. 5 to help rebuild the grandstands at Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial Field in Columbia Falls. The grandstands, which stood since 1989, were completely destroyed by a fire on June 27.

Kalispell Lakers baseball

Kalispell Lakers AA second baseman Joe Broughton throws to first as a Great Falls Chargers baserunner slides into second during the top of the sixth inning at Griffin Field on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

LAW ROUNDUP: Bunnies: Fence 'em out or fence 'em in?

Kert Lee Dolechek, 51

Geraldine 'Pat' Barten, 83

Boyd Patrick Clark, 56

Charles 'Chuck' Spilis, 78

Airport director retiring after decade at Glacier Park International

Glacier Park International Airport Director Cindi Martin will retire Aug. 31, the Flathead Municipal Airport Authority announced Wednesday.

Resort, agency combine for pine project

Hal Herring cages the cones of a whitebark pine tree on Big Mountain Tuesday, July 18. The cages protect the tree from disease.

Judge rules against compact provision

A Lake County judge on Monday sided with opponents of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes’ water compact, finding that a provision in the controversial agreement granted the state a new legal immunity and should have required a two-thirds vote to pass the Montana Legislature.

Montana nightlife at the Blue Moon

Charlene Sapa fills a pitcher of beer at the Blue Moon on Saturday.

The Event - Course Walk through

Ian Stark, course designer for the international level jumps at The Event, discusses the course on Wednesday, July 20, at Rebecca Farm. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Tips for creating a multi-purpose home office space

Farmers Insurance

Connie and Gary Barker at their Farmers Insurance office in Evergreen. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Creative ways to take your raised bed and planter gardening to new heights

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Todd Napier stands in the Flathead Transmission Specialists garage' on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Sean Napier assembles an input and directional drum for a Chevy truck at Flathead Transmission Specialists on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Howard Hudson installs an accumalator in a Ford pick up transmission case at Flathead Transmission Specialists on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The transmission case for a Ford truck sits on a bench at Flathead Transmission Specialist. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The garage at Flathead Transmission Specialist is full of trucks and cars to being worked on. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Whitefish sunset rainbow

A double rainbow appeared over Whitefish on Tuesday evening, July 19, at 9:14 p.m. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Bigfork green-box fees established

Enlarged Lakeside collection site nearly completed

Bigfork residents will be assessed $47.84 per residence for the first year as Flathead County imposes its special fee area for the new green-box site in Bigfork.

Seniors live out aviation dreams

The pilot of a 1942 Boeing Stearman held his passenger’s cane as Jack Taylor, 84, worked with two people to get into the cockpit Monday morning.

Accused stalker from Oklahoma pleads not guilty

A Norman, Oklahoma, man is facing stalking charges after following a victim to Montana.

Council OKs revised South Kalispell plan

The Kalispell City Council on Monday voted to amend its South Kalispell urban renewal plan, which details planning and policy options for Kalispell City Airport and the surrounding area.

DAYBOOK, July 20

Marion family loses everything in home fire

‘Flames were coming out of every window’

Dianna Soderholm was working Monday morning in her shop 40 yards from her Marion mobile home when she smelled something burning. She walked to the edge of the shop to see dark clouds of smoke rolling out of her bedroom and bathroom windows.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Local garden tour features seven stops

Mike Thiel’s garden is one of seven gardens featured in the Flathead County Democratic Women’s Garden Tour fundraiser on Saturday, July 23.

5 gigs that will help you pay for college

Robert L. 'Bob' Burmood, 70

Robert L. “Bob” Burmood, 70, “grandfather” of therapeutic horseback riding in Western Montana, passed peacefully “into Jesus’ arms” Friday, July 15, 2016, with his two Irish “angels” at his side.

Joan Irene Olson, 56

Joan Irene Olson passed in her sleep on July 8, 2016.

RODEO: Kalispell's Schmid 7th in performance at National H.S. Finals

GILLETTE, Wyo. — Kalispell’s Heidi Schmid finished seventh in the fifth performance of pole bending at the National High School Finals Rodeo on Tuesday night at the CAM-PLEX Event Facility.

RUGBY: Heavirland headed to Rio

Whitefish resident named a travel reserve for U.S. team

CHULA VISTA, Calif. — Whitefish’s Nicole Heavirland was named as one of two travel reserves for the U.S. national rugby sevens team that will represent the country in the Summer Olympic Games next month in a press release by USA Rugby on Tuesday.

LAW ROUNDUP: One hitch: No shoes, no shirt, no ride

Someone told

Joan Irene Olson, 56

Robert L. 'Bob' Burmood, 70

Twins

Glacier outfielder Jesse Walburn chases down a pop fly to help preserve Jonny Sapa's no-hitter against the Mission Valley Mariners. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Waffle-loving grizzly bear killed

A food-conditioned female grizzly bear captured last week north of Loon Lake was killed by state wildlife officials after becoming conditioned to eating livestock and a variety of human food, including waffles.

SpiritWorks Herb Farm

Carolyn “Lindy” Dewey at SpiritWorks Herb Farm on Monday, July 18, near Whitefish. 

Glacier Sunset

Enormous clouds light up at sunset in Glacier National Park on Monday evening, July 18. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

LETTER: Look at the German model for harvesting timber

The recent announcement of the closure of Plum Creek Lumber Mill in Columbia Falls got me to thinking (always a danger!). In terms of how our federal government should handle our national forest, I think they should look at what Germany does with its forests. For the past 300 years Germany looks upon their lumber forests as a crop. Many homes in Germany are still built only of wood and many homes are still heated with wood. As a crop, for every tree cut down, a new one is planted.

LETTER: Bullock wrong on refugees; vote for Gianforte

I would like to let anyone wanting to come to the U.S. in, but we have to think about the safety of Americans first. Letting people into our country that may want to do harm is unacceptable.

Man claims innocence in walrus tusk theft

A Marion man who allegedly stole an ivory walrus tusk as collateral for his stolen motorcycle pleaded not guilty to felony theft and felony bail jumping Thursday in Flathead District Court.

LETTER: We are at war

The first thing to identify is who we are at war with. In a nine-page Homeland Security document dated April 7, 2009, Janet Napolitano defined Domestic Terrorists as veterans, right-wing extremists, pro-life, pro-gun and constitutional conservatives.

LETTER: The republic is under assault

The refusal of the FBI to bring charges against former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton is just the latest evidence that the hostile takeover of our republican form of government by the progressive administrative state is nearing completion.

LETTER: Think carefully about value of city airport

This is just a short letter to the Kalispell city manager and the entire City Council concerning the fate of the city airport.

Finding the best cooling options for hot garages

Tips for navigating the sharing economy

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Celebrate the last days of summer with a weekend getaway for the whole family

Michael Cimino, 'Heaven's Gate' and me

A movie memoir

The recent death of movie director Michael Cimino brought to mind when I worked in his financially disastrous film “Heaven’s Gate” and wrote about my observations, stirring up a great controversy.

State signs deal for federal timber harvest

Following Weyerhaeuser’s devastating announcement that it would shutter two of its mills in Columbia Falls — a loss of 200 jobs in the economically embattled city of 5,000 — the decades-long decline of Western Montana’s timber industry is igniting a heated debate in the state’s gubernatorial race.

Kalispell Regional to sponsor dragon-boat races

Kalispell Regional Healthcare System will be the title sponsor for this year’s Montana Dragon Boat Festival Sept. 10-11 in Lakeside.

Legion baseball: Ericksen rallies Lakers AA past Medicine Hat

Leif Ericksen belted his first home run of the season and threw three-sharp innings in relief to get the win as the Kalispell Lakers rallied past Medicine Hat 8-5 on Monday evening in AA American Legion baseball action at Griffin Field.

Schmid competing in National High School Finals Rodeo

Heidi Schmid of Kalispell will be competing in the National High School Finals Rodeo (NHSFR) this week in Gillette, Wyoming, at the Cam-Plex Convention Center.

Police take call about drugged dog

A woman told Kalispell Police that she believed her dog had eaten marijuana. She said she discovered the dog had somehow consumed drugs when it fell sick and she took the dog to vet, who allegedly said the animal was high. The woman told police there was no pot in her house.

William 'Craig' Pickard, 46

Greenhouse, working farm proposed near Whitefish High

The Whitefish School District is asking the city for a conditional-use permit to build a greenhouse and transform space around Whitefish High School into a working farm and outdoor classroom space.

Senator warns against isolationism

Speaking to dozens of local business leaders at the Applied Materials North Kalispell campus Monday morning, U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., mixed optimism for Montana’s future as an up-and-coming hub for technology-driven trade with concern about an increase in “isolationist rhetoric” in national politics.

Family's home destroyed by fire

A sleeping Marion teenager awoke in time to escape a fire Monday morning that destroyed a modular home.

Steve Daines Roundtable

Victims of fiery crash identified

Authorities have identified the three people who died in a car crash early Saturday morning when their vehicle rolled off the road and caught fire along the U.S. 93 bypass near Kalispell.

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Eighty-five year old Phyllis Bouton, right, waits with her best friend Naomi Sherper for her turn to take a flight in a plane during the Dream Flights event at the Glacier Jet Center on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jack Taylor, 84 gives the thumbs up before he takes off in a 1942 Boeing Stearman during the Dream Flights event at the Glacier Jet Center. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Keep your family protected from pesky mosquitoes this summer

Kalispell City Council to consider urban renewal plan update tonight

The Kalispell City Council will vote tonight on a proposed update to its urban renewal plan for South Kalispell.

5 tips for protecting kids with food allergies at school

FJ July 2016

5 Lifestyle Tips to Help Manage Your Diabetes

Relocating in 2016? 6 tips for a stress free move

Huckleberry Patch opens second store, eatery in Arlee

Business owners in Arlee are hopeful the recent opening of a new sister business of a well-known Hungry Horse restaurant and tourist outlet will bring folks into the tiny town.

Whitefish to vote on Marriott hotel request

A decision about whether to grant a conditional-use permit to allow construction of a Marriott hotel is front and center on the Whitefish City Council’s agenda tonight.

Legion baseball: Mavericks roll by Lakers, 8-1

The Missoula Mavericks took an early lead and never looked back in downing the Kalispell Lakers 8-1 on Sunday afternoon in AA American Legion baseball conference action at Griffin Field.

RACING: Doss wins Montana 200

Jeremy Doss, of Upper Lake, California, won the rain-delayed 26th annual Montana 200 on a sunny Sunday afternoon at Montana Raceway Park.

Full moon spotted in Whitefish

A Lupfer Avenue resident called the

Huckleberry heaven

Sarah Sorenson cuts into a huckleberry pie at the new Huckleberry Patch in Arlee.

Montana 200

Race leader Owen Riddle drives past Shelby Thompson as Thompson's car slides into a puddle on the infield during the Montana 200. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

LETTER: Congress, needs to commit to ending cancer

Recently I attended the Cancer Moonshot Summit hosted locally at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. During the summit on June 29, Vice President Biden asked us to personally commit to help end cancer.

LETTER: Zinke is selling lemons with his public-lands vote

There’s a long list of unreasonable sorts of people that reasonable people tend to watch out for. Two of the most unpopular types of people on this list are used-car salesmen and politicians.

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LETTER: Pilot says best alternative to landing at Kalispell airport would be Polson

I just returned from another fabulous week on Flathead Lake, flying my small plane in and out of Kalispell City Airport all the way from Ohio.  

Health Department to expand

EDITORIAL: A fresh new approach to airport

Some encouraging news emerged this week regarding Kalispell’s beleaguered city airport.

OPINION: No good reason to keep Kalispell City Airport open

Monday night the Kalispell City Council had a workshop about the Kalispell City Airport. They had the public get up and state their views on the airport first. And they wanted to hear what the people wanted to say before they started to hash out the airport issue.

OPINION: Letter writer wonders if his critic is also offended by Islamic murder

This is a response to the letter “Muslims are like all other people,” from Jonathan D. Jones, in the June 24 Daily Inter Lake. Jones is reported to be a 1992 grad of Flathead High School residing in San Antonio, and also a retired master sergeant who served twice in Iraq and who also served in Oman.

COLUMN: In a crazy world we still pray for peace

Tedder

More than horsing around at Rebecca Farm

Sarah Broussard didn’t follow her mom into the family business.

The Event's $4.4 million economic impact

2015 The Event coverage

RACING: Rain, hail postpones main event at Montana 200

First rainout since 2005, race moved to Sunday at 1 p.m.

The 26th annual Montana 200 was postponed early Saturday evening because of rain and has been rescheduled for Sunday.

FOOTBALL: Whitefish's Luke May named MVP in Shrine Game rout

Whitefish QB totals 4 TDs in 45-14 win

BUTTE — Luke May threw for two touchdowns and ran for two more in his final prep football game, leading the West team to a 45-14 victory at the 70th Montana East-West Shrine Game on Saturday night at Alumni Coliseum on the campus of Montana Tech University.

OPINION: Trump and the rockets' red glare

He’s not so much a candidate, as a warning to the establishment

As the Fourth of July passes, and I look back on all the big, loud, ostentatious, oh-so-provincial colorful explosions I may or may not have set off, I’m reminded of Donald Trump’s candidacy.

BASEBALL: Glacier Twins turn triple play, down Lakers in Kalispell

Jonny Sapa went the distance on the mound and the Glacier Twins turned a triple play in a 7-3 Class A American Legion baseball victory Saturday evening over the Kalispell Lakers at Griffin Field.

LAW ROUNDUP: Hard-hitting alarm clock wakes man

A man got a rude awakening when he was allegedly woken up by his girlfriend punching him in the face. The man told

Jeff Bridges, "Heaven's Gate"

Jeff Bridges and an unidentified actor on the set of "Heaven's Gate." (Les Gapay photo)

Les Gapay in costume, "Heaven's Gate"

Author Les Gapay as an extra in "Heaven's Gate." (Courtesy Les Gapay)

Kris Kristofferson, "Heaven's Gate"

Kris Kristofferson on the set of "Heaven's Gate" in Glacier Park, 1979. (Les Gapay photo)

'Heaven's Gate' townsite

"Heaven's Gate" movie set at Two Medicine Lake campground in Glacier National Park. (Les Gapay photo)

OPINION: Let's look for solutions to save Flathead's middle class

Our neighbors in Columbia Falls received devastating news about the closure of plants that will cost the valley 200 jobs. We can point the blame in a lot of different places, or we can use our resolve to find solutions to return Flathead County and Montana to economic prosperity for all.  

George W. Clark, 86

George W. Clark

Francis 'Frank' Pelech, 82

COLUMN: You can't 'fact check' opinions

One of the constant complaints I receive in my role as managing editor of the Inter Lake is that letters to the editor we have published contain inaccuracies.

Francis 'Frank' Pelech

Rodney Bruce Reid, 77

Rodney Bruce Reid

Audrey M. Baldwin, 83

Audrey M. Baldwin

Audrey M. Baldwin

John Jay Rauk, 67

John Jay Rauk

Evelyn M. Nockleby, 99

Evelyn M. Nockleby

Water flowing again after massive blowout

County mulls lakeshore regulation overhaul

Amid upswing in bike thefts, one specially designed bicycle is retrieved

Three killed in Saturday morning fiery rollover crash on Bypass

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Thirteen-year-old Kassidi Cox of Charlo runs her final lap of the First Montana Bank Flathead Valley Kids Triathlon at Woodland Park on Saturday. Cox was one of 114 participants to compete in the event that featured three age divisions. Cox won the 9-13 age division. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter

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Ella Lougheed,6, leads a group during the bike section of the Flathead Valley Kids Triathlon at Woodland Park on Saturday. Bjorn Bungener of Whitefish won the 6-8 age division and Avilia Schmautz of Kalispell finished in second. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Five-year-old Kason Butts of Kalispell smiles as he runs during the First Montana Bank Flathead Valley Kids Triathlon at Woodland Park on Saturday. Zander Schmautz of Kalispell won the 4-5 age division. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Nathan Mann is a sales consultant at Green Nissan. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Alaina Madsen brings a beer to a customer on the patio of the Tamarack Brewing Company in Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Colin's Furniture design consultants Lynn Satterlund, left, and Michelle Carpenter laugh as they go through fabric at the store on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Conlin's Furniture in Evergreen has 60-70 recliners in their showroom at all times. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Victor Merendon moves a mattress in Conlin's Furniture warehouse on Friday. The warehouse has a few hundred mattresses on hand at all times and ensures 24-hour local delivery. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ashley Barrett of sleep specialist for the sleep center of Conlin's Furniture stands in the showroom that has about 80 mattresses. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Design consultant LInda Swaim sits on a couch in one of the displays at Conlin's Furniture in Evergreen. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Man faces felony gun charge

A Kalispell man is facing felony assault with a weapon charges after reportedly pointing a loaded handgun at someone.

Man in high-speed chase denies charges

A man who led police on a high-speed chase has pleaded not guilty to felony criminal endangerment and misdemeanor assault in Flathead District Court.

DAYBOOK, July 16

Nurses lobby for protection against workplace violence

Nurses and state officials met in Kalispell Friday to discuss how to protect health-care workers from what they described as a consistently abusive work environment. The meeting was part of the Montana Nurses Association’s attempt to garner support legislation that would make assaulting a health-care worker a felony.

Tester joins Columbia Falls in search for solutions for Weyerhaeuser workers

Sen. Jon Tester, D-Montana, met with Columbia Falls representatives Friday morning for a roundtable discussion on what local and federal efforts could do to fill in the community’s gaps.

BASEBALL: DeCock pitches Lakers to split

Two-hitter carriers Kalispell to shutout win in Game 1

It didn’t take long for Logan DeCock to realize Friday was going to be a good night.

AUTO RACING: Riddles solve Montana 200 qualifying, take top spots

Defending champ takes pole, brother joins on front row

It was a different car, but the same result for Owen Riddle.

LAW ROUNDUP: Territorial panhandlers get testy

Kalispell Lakers baseball

Kalispell Lakers AA outfielder Spencer Pisk (4) is congratulated by his teammates after scoring a run in the Lakers' game against the Billings Scarlets on July 15, 2016, in Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Robert Ball of Kalispell wipes down his bronze sculpture of a mountain lion during 48th annual Arts in the Park at Depot Park in Kalispell on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Beth Schecher of Kalispell test out a Native American style high spirits flute made by Rick Gnerich of Fluting from the Heart during Arts in the Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Emma Brist of Marion looks at the jewelery made from bufferflies by Damien Settelen of Petal Smith during Arts in the Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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MIlo, a basset hound pit bull mix, sits in front of Dan Goad's Fine Art booth at Arts in the Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kezia Lovelady spoke about assault at the Montana Nurse Association's press conference at the Hilton Garden Inn in Kalispell on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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U.S. Sen. Jon Tester listens during a round table meeting of elected officials and business and community leaders about the upcoming Weyerhaeuser layoffs at the Freedom Bank in Columbia Falls on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Casey Malmquist speaks to U.S. Sen. Jon Tester as Columbia Falls City Manager Susan Nicosia listens after a rount table meeting on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

OPINION: Everyone should try to stop bottling plant

The entire Flathead Valley should be enraged by the ongoing effort by Lew Weaver and the Montana Artesian Water Company to steal our water out from under us.

LETTER: Nutrition experts don't always get it right

Over the past four decades, I’ve read or skimmed hundreds of popular nutrition books. I recently stumbled across a 1990 book by Randy L. Wysong. In Chapter 8, with remarkable clarity and brevity, the author explains what causes heart disease.

LETTER: Gun control will stop the killing

Richard Reed of Kila knows more about guns than I do, and I can live with that. But the question is not what is or is not an assault weapon but how to stop mass shootings.  

LETTER: Reasons for the housing crisis

There is a reason homes are so expensive. The city of Whitefish is trying to figure out the reason private sector people working in Whitefish cannot afford to live in Whitefish. They must live in Kalispell or Columbia Falls. The problem was created by Congress back in 1974 — trying to end sex discrimination.

LETTER: Comey doesn't convince this ex-lawman

I have committed over 50 years of my life to the law enforcement profession — 25 years as a member of one of America’s finest police departments, and another 29 years as a consultant and educator. As such, I am deeply concerned with the results of the FBI’s investigation into Mrs. Clinton’s case.

4 ways to save during the back-to-school season

WEEKEND UPDATE: Arts in the Park

The 48th annual Arts in the Park is this weekend at Kalispell Depot Park.

Charges filed for sexual assault at City Beach

A man has been charged with felony sexual intercourse without consent and misdemeanor partner or family member assault.

Smith Valley firefighters buoyed by support after station burned

Walk-a-Mile fundraiser set July 31 to help department replace burned equipment

Firefighters throughout the region and the country are rallying to support the Smith Valley Fire Department after an arson fire at its Foy’s Lake station destroyed hundreds of thousands of dollars in gear and equipment over the Fourth of July weekend.

Kalispell woman charged with endangering child

A Kalispell woman is charged with felony criminal child endangerment after she allegedly drove drunk and caused a crash with an 8-year-old in her vehicle.

Woman sues Kalispell police to force them to return gun

A Kalispell woman on Tuesday filed a federal lawsuit against the Kalispell Police Department, alleging that her Second Amendment rights are being violated after police refused to return a gun and ammunition confiscated as evidence following a 2015 standoff.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Great Place Party rescheduled for July 26

Flathead Citizens for a Better Flathead has rescheduled its Great Place Raffle Party for 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 26, at Bonsai Brewery in Whitefish.

DAYBOOK, July 15

Helen Marie Riffel (nee Mahlum), 72

With heavy hearts we announce the passing of Helen Marie Riffel (nee Mahlum), in Eureka, on July 10, 2016, at the age of 72 years.

John 'Jinx' Morris, 65

John “Jinx” Morris, 65, passed away on Monday, July 11, 2016, at his Havre residence following a year-long battle with cancer.

Jim Eckenrode, 75

Jim Eckenrode “crossed over the Great Divide to God’s Country” on March 21, 2016, after a long illness.

Ruth Simon, 93

Alma Ruth Simon, 93, who passed away on Thursday, July 7, 2016, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell, was born July 18, 1922, to Katherine and George Zeiler in Billings. Her early years were spent farming along the Yellowstone River with her large family, and she retained fond memories of those years, recounting a simple, rewarding life that kept food on the table and spirits up throughout the Depression.

EDITORIAL: Rebuilding bleachers a community effort

It was a devastating loss for a community-minded group when the bleachers were burned down at the Sapa-Johnsrud Babe Ruth Fields on June 27.

COLUMN: The curse of competition

I cover sports for a living. I thrive on competition. I’m a driven guy. I want to win at everything.

ARCHERY: Local 4-H places at nationals

The Half Moon Highlanders aren’t a big group, but they carry a big punch.

LEGION ROUNDUP: Mission Valley splits; Libby wins at home

POLSON — Jacob Harrod tossed a 3-hitter as the Mission Valley Mariners blanked the Bitterroot Bucs 10-0 on Thursday in the second game of an American Legion A baseball doubleheader.

LAW ROUNDUP: Loaded log truck hits underpass

John 'Jinx' Morris, 65

Jim Eckenrode, 75

Ruth Simon, 93

Helen Marie Riffel (nee Mahlum), 72

Montana 200

Dennis Kennedy takes the tires off of Shane Mitchell's car after a practice session for the Montana 200 at the Montana Raceway Park on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Neira Zavala of Zavala Orchard in Yellow Bay weighs cherries at their stand in Bigfork on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Samples of cherries are displayed at the Zavala cherry stand in Bigfork on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Barbara Stoegbauer takes a sample cherry while buying as she wait for her cherries to be weighed at the Zavala cherry stand in Bigfork on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Professional Therapy Associates physical therapists Joel Shehan, from left, Trevor Eccles, Taylor Chadwick and Jey Ponti. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

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The staff of Pisk Chiropractic and Physiotherapy office manager Robin Rude, from left, therapist Diane Lee, receptionist Ann Thiel, doctor of chiropractic Adam Pisk, doctor of chiropractic and certified chiropractic sports physician Gregory Pisk and doctor of chiropractic Wanda Robinson. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A light hangs from the arched ceiling of the McIntosh Opera House. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Eye toward history

Stewart See stands in front of the McIntosh Opera House located above Western Outdoor in downtown Kalispell. 

McIntosh Opera House

The balcony of the McIntosh Opera House, built in 1896.

LETTER: Nation being undermined from within

Our beloved USA is being undermined from within. The politicians, the media, our state leaders, the celebrities — all are instigating unrest and promoting racism by carelessly commenting on the tragic events happening on a regular basis nowadays.  

LETTER: 'Responsible Republicans' just the ticket for electing Hillary

It looks like some of our “Responsible Republicans” are not supporting Donald Trump for president (see the article in the July 8 Inter Lake, page A5).

LETTER: Field of profanities?

I am writing to express my concern regarding the unprofessionalism displayed at the Kalispell Lakers baseball field. While previous games at that field have been unpleasant to attend, in that it seems the announcers are not impartial; most recently, I experienced what I could only characterize as unsportsmanlike behavior coming from the announcers booth.

LETTER: Don't block U.S. tradition from July 4 parade

In March, 2012, on behalf of the Flathead Valley Muzzleloaders club, I approached Mr. Joe Unterreiner, CEO for the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, about their Fourth of July parade, and also Mr. Charles Harball, Kalispell city attorney. Both men gave our club approval to escort a parade float up Main Street, firing “reduced” load “blanks” in our single-shot black-powder muzzleloading rifles.

COLUMN: Non-native fish are the reality in Montana

Two weeks ago I wrote a column on the fine sport of fishing for northern pike. At least one reader strongly disagreed with my column. His letter to the editor blasted me from all sides. I suspect if that writer were in the White House, I would be on my way to Guantanamo.

Kalispell man pleads not guilty to robbery

George Anthony Magrath, 25, of Kalispell pleaded not guilty to felony robbery July 7 in Flathead County District Court.

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Kids' art class takes place on Whitefish Trail

Children are invited to explore the Whitefish Trail today to collect natural materials to make relief impressions in clay, creating lasting memories in this free class.

Skijoring group says it was denied access to repair runway

Skijoring coordinator Scott Ping said there’s more to the story surrounding the closure of the Whitefish Airport after damage occurred during last winter’s skijoring event there. He claims his organization was never given an opportunity to make repairs to the airport’s damaged turf.

Col. Falls woman sentenced for child endangerment incident

Kelsie Lynn Vulgamore, 26, of Columbia Falls, received a six-month suspended sentence for misdemeanor reckless driving.

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Good news, bad news for state's health insurance plans

Enrollment is up, but so are rates

While Montana has experienced a record drop in uninsured residents — with the greatest number of recent Medicaid enrollees coming from the Flathead Valley — the possibility of a hike in insurance costs hangs over tens of thousands of Montanans as insurers seek double-digit rate increases.

Bison range transfer gets positive reviews

More than a century after the federal government removed more than 18,000 acres of land on the Flathead Indian Reservation to establish the National Bison Range, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are working to return the wildlife refuge to tribal management.

Lincoln County OKs contract with Pathways

The Lincoln County Commissioners on July 6 unanimously approved the terms of its contract with Pathways Treatment Center in Kalispell for the 2016-2017 year.

Leroy John McFadden, 86

Leroy John McFadden, 86, passed away at his home in Columbia Falls on Dec. 21, 2015.

Whitefish council still mulling Marriott hotel

The fate of a proposed Marriott hotel in Whitefish hangs in the balance while the Whitefish City Council explores options for denying the project.

Kenneth E. 'Grampee' Howlett, 72

Kenneth E. Howlett, 72, passed peacefully on July 7, 2017, in Helena, with his wife Janice by his side.

Joann Mildred (Cross) Smith, 84

Joann Mildred (Cross) Smith passed away July 2, 2016, at the Kadlec Medical Center in Richland, Washington. She was 84.

This Week in the Flathead | July 14-20

DAYBOOK, July 14

Robert 'Bob' Gerald Smith, 77

Robert “Bob” Gerald Smith lost his battle with brain cancer on June 4, 2016, in Kennewick, Washington. He was 77.

Hockaday Museum of Art holds 48th annual Arts in the Park Festival

Hot spot for arts

The Hockaday Museum of Art presents the 48th annual Arts in the Park Festival, to be held Friday through Sunday, July 15 through 17, in downtown Kalispell’s Depot Park at Main and Center streets.

Athlete of the Year finalists

#2016AOY

COLUMN: Celebrating the best of Northwest Montana

There are a lot of good athletes in Northwest Montana.

COLUMN: Celebrating NW Montana's best

2016 Finalists' biographies

2016 Athlete of the Year

BASEBALL: Lakers A pitch way to sweep of Rangers

Kalispell rides two complete games to pair of wins

EUREKA — Sam Elliott and Drew Scherrer twirled a pair of complete games and the Kalispell Lakers A swept a pair of games 5-2 and 4-1 against the Kootenai Valley Rangers on Wednesday night.

LAW ROUNDUP: Pokémon fan doesn't get to 'catch 'em all'

Leroy John McFadden, 86

Kenneth E. 'Grampee' Howlett, 72

Libby woman dies in one-car accident near dam

A 24-year old Libby woman died Tuesday night in a rollover on Montana 37 just south of the Libby Dam.

Hot spot of arts

Arts in the Park will feature a variety of children's events, including face-painting.

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5 helpful hints for welcoming a kitty home

Why you need vitamin E - and how to get your daily dose

Glacier Park to host Climate Change Interactive Dance Performance

Glacier National Park will host a free, interactive dance performance later this month to bring attention to the impacts of climate change in Northwest Montana and celebrate the centennial of the National Park Service.

GPI airport gets $1.2 million for upgrades

Glacier Park International Airport has received a $1.2 million federal grant that will pay for a number of infrastructure improvements at the airport.

FVCC students take classroom to the Pacific

With an underwater camera in hand, a student leaned out of the boat and splashed into the Pacific Ocean last month as part of Flathead Valley Community College’s first chemistry study abroad trip.

Wear blue Thursday to support police officers

Montana Concerns of Police Survivors (MT COPS) has asked community residents to show their appreciation to local law enforcement officers by wearing blue on Thursday.

Man pleads not guilty in Bigfork stabbing

A man pleaded not guilty to felony weapon assault charges during his arraignment on July 7 in Flathead County District Court.

John Balsam, 63

Life lost one of its hardest working champions when John Balsam, age 63, privately passed during the early morning hours of July 2, 2016. His wife was at his side.

Why an RV may be the ticket to your dream vacation [Video]

Denny Earl Ingraham, 72

Denny Earl Ingraham, 72, of Polson, passed away on Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at his home on Flathead Lake.

Darlene Arnelda Orr Landsidel, 61

Darlene Arnelda Orr Landsidel, 61, “went home to be with her Lord and Savior” on July 10, 2016, after a courageous battle with cancer.

DAYBOOK, July 13

Betty L. (Althouse) Anderson, 87

Betty L. (Althouse) Anderson passed away peacefully on July 8, 2016, two weeks after her 87th birthday. She was surrounded by her family at the time of her death.

LEGION ROUNDUP: Glacier Twins bounce back, hammer Loggers in Libby

Twins pile up 32 runs in pair of five-inning victories

LIBBY — The Glacier Twins A went on an offensive rampage, shaking off a difficult weekend by walloping the Libby Loggers 11-0 and 21-1 on Tuesday night at Lee Gehring Field.

Tournament leaderboard

GOLF: Local pair trail at Junior World Championships

LA JOLLA, Calif. — A pair of local golfers teed it up with some of the world’s best junior golfers, staying in contention after the first of three days at the IMG Academy Junior World Championships on the South Course at Torrey Pines Golf Course on Tuesday.

LAW ROUNDUP: Road rage results in threat of violence

FVCC students take classroom to the Pacific

Audrey Jones, left, and Erin McGowen prepare materials to sample reef water chemistry.

John Balsam, 63

Betty L. (Althouse) Anderson, 87

Denny Earl Ingraham, 72

Darlene Arnelda Orr Landsidel, 61

Glass Flowers for Sparrow's Nest

Two completed poppies are planted outside the home of artist Lee Proctor. The flowers will be on display this weekend during the Whitefish Garden Tour, a benefit for the Sparrow’s Nest. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Bear Morning Country Club

From left, Matt Desch, Leah `Lindsay and John Michaels doing the Bear Morning Country Club on Tuesday, July 12, at 8:15, from Bee Broadcasting in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

American Legion Auxiliary Girls Nation Prepares Next Generation of Female Leaders

Kalispell airport users offer financial support

A decision on the fate of the Kalispell City Airport likely won’t come this year.

3 simple no-bake brunch hacks

Selling your car: Get more money with these top tips

Convicted Ronan murderer seeks new trial

A Ronan man serving life without parole for raping and killing his cousin at Wild Horse Hot Springs in May 2013 has asked the Montana Supreme Court for a new trial and reconsideration of $35,000 in public defender’s fees.

LETTER: The bad times are just going to get worse

The Obama administration has run up the national debt to where it is incomprehensible. Just the interest on this debt is hundreds of millions of dollars per second. It has become unsustainable, and the weight of this debt will collapse the economy at any second.

LETTER: Wake up and protect aquifer!

People of Flathead Valley, WAKE UP! We must act before it’s too late. We must all realize what is going on and work together to stop it. If we love our valley, we must unite and put a stop to this Creston bottling plant.

Comments sought on Kalispell utility plan

The Kalispell Public Works Department is seeking public comment on the South Kalispell Water and Wastewater Facility Plan Update.

LETTER: Governor urged to protect state from terror threat

I went to a gathering of Montana citizens to hear what Brigitte Gabriel had to say about the threats to this country from Islamic extremists.

LETTER: States need to take back their power over federal excesses

The words “the state,” as used in the Constitution of the United States of America, do not — repeat do NOT — refer to a “general government” (i.e., Congress and the executive).

Breaking the weight-loss cycle

Hikers rescued on Highline Trail

Two hikers were airlifted by emergency helicopters after suffering injuries on the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park in separate incidents over the weekend.

Prisoner faces new charges after funeral incident

A Lake County jail inmate is facing new charges after officers stopped him from swallowing a condom at his father’s funeral that allegedly contained heroin, drug paraphernalia and money.

Kila man sentenced for felony sexual assault of teenager

A Kila man was sentenced to 40 years in Montana State Prison, with 30 years suspended, for one count of felony sexual assault.

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Mattie McAnally

Allie_Schulz

Ellie Johnson

Sean Opland

Thomas Trefney

Hailee Bennett

Annie Hill

Luke May

Trae Vasquez

Allie Schulz

Ali Williams

Ryggs Johnston

Jake Perrin

Legion baseball: Lakers AA win 2nd game, split with Royals

BILLINGS — Patrick O’Connell’s single in the top of the seventh inning drove in two runs to give the Kalispell Lakers AA a 4-2 victory in the second game of a doubleheader and a split with the Billings Royals on Monday afternoon.

Caller worried about Mexican mafia

Man dies of self-inflicted gunshot in Polebridge

A man died from a self-inflicted gunshot wound in Polebridge as officers from the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Border Patrol were attempting to talk him to safety Sunday night.

Doyle 'Sonny' Eugene Russell, 64

Doyle “Sonny” Eugene Russell passed away Wednesday, July 6, 2016, at his home in Woods Bay.

Cemetery Road parcel is being considered for industrial zoning

A request to change the zoning on 21 acres of suburban agricultural land on Cemetery Road is the focus of a public hearing on Wednesday before the Flathead County Planning Board.

Glacier National Park rescue

A Glacier National Park Service Ranger holds a shotgun as he leads a team with a stretcher to rescue a hiker on the Highline Trail at Logan Pass on Sunday.

Get unhinged: 3 ways to create visually striking doors in your home

Tranquil scene

Tranquil scene at Kintla Lake on Sunday afternoon, July 10, in North Glacier National Park. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Armed standoff in Glacier Park ends peacefully

An armed standoff ended peacefully late Saturday night after a 28-year-old Helena man allegedly fired a gun at Glacier National Park’s popular Sprague Creek Campground.

5 interest rate terms every first-time homebuyer should know

Houses: Building them better than they used to

8 rousing reasons to put a hearing test at the top of your 'done' list

See the light: Get the real facts about LED bulbs

Programs offered in Glacier Park

NATIVE AMERICA SPEAKS

Now in its 32nd season, the Native America Speaks program provides Glacier National Park visitors the opportunity to hear from members of the Blackfeet, Salish, Kootenai and Pend d’Oreille tribes as they share their knowledge of the language, history and culture of Native America throughout the summer.

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As more millennials undergo plastic surgery, safety concerns rise

One person dies in Lake County car crash

One person died in a car crash Saturday morning on Montana 83, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s office.

Pilot walks away from helicopter crash near Yellow Bay

No one was injured in a helicopter crash near the Yellow Bay area over the weekend, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Some plans leave loophole for autism services

While Montana law requires insurance plans to support autism services, many private companies have found an exemption to the requirement. Those exceptions leave parents searching for ways to afford treatment for their child’s disability.

Simple summer home improvement: Upgrade your curb appeal

Innovation: A fundamental factor in family-owned business success

Teen details life in foster-care system

16 placements in eight years

Johnny Perez Jr. spent most of his life trying to be “normal” as he was moved 16 times in the foster-care system.

Kalispell City Council to hold work session on city airport policy options

Three weeks ahead of its scheduled vote on whether to close the city airport, the Kalispell City Council will hold a work session tonight to discuss policy options for the contentious, municipally owned property.

Legion baseball: Lakers A lose 5-4 to Med Hat in Harp tourney final

Medicine Hat, which blew an early 4-0 lead, need a run in the bottom of the seventh inning to slip by the Kalispell Lakers A 5-4 in the championship game of the John R. Harp Tournament on Sunday afternoon at Griffin Field.

Man bares it all at City Beach

A caller alerted the

David M. Polansky, 49

Stuart Wellington Duncan, 94

Stuart Wellington Duncan, “Duncan,” 94, passed away on July 7, 2016, of natural causes at Providence St. Joseph Medical Center in Polson.

Two alleged dealers facing felony meth charges

Two alleged methamphetamine dealers may face up to life in prison and up to $50,000 fines for allegedly selling more than 2 ounces of meth for $5,100 in January and February 2014.

LETTER: Outdoor column seen as causing harm to native fish species

The June 30 edition of the Inter Lake published the most disturbing, indeed, disgusting, writing I have ever witnessed in print in Montana.

OPINION: A theory of how modern man divorced himself from God

Currently we are looking head-on at a Yeatsian “Rough Beast / Slouching towards Bethlehem / To be Born,” and our American society is careening, tottering onwards toward moral chaos.

OPINION: So who's telling the truth about the Obama economy?

Fact check

President Obama must have growing concerns that Trump might actually win the race for the White House. One recent headline reads: “Obama stages Republican voter intervention.”

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LETTER: Clarification on ID of person in court report

I am writing because I just learned some very disturbing news.

OPINION: Ryan Zinke's feet a poor fit for Teddy's boots

U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke recently claimed that he was a “Teddy Roosevelt conservationist.” He then voted for H.R. 2316, a piece of legislation that would transfer management of 4 million acres of national forests to state-appointed committees. These committees would be charged with stimulating commodity production and revenue. The multiple-use principle for American forests that Theodore Roosevelt championed would not apply.

Great Fish challenge kicks off Tuesday

Whitefish Community Foundation will launch the Great Fish Community Challenge on Tuesday, July 12.

LETTER: Airport's value exaggerated by supporters

Figures don’t lie; liars figure. Just look at the purported figures in the paid ads for that economic behemoth, the Kalispell City Airport. All the figures come from studies by airport consultants whose sole job is to work on developing bigger airports, so it’s no wonder all the numbers look so doggone great!

OPINION: Core Area Redevelopment will enrich Kalispell

Like the reality TV shows that stream into our homes daily, the city of Kalispell is hard at work on their own “makeover” project for Kalispell’s Core Area. As Realtors in the Flathead Valley, we could not be more excited to welcome this fresh look and the positive economic impact it will bring to our community.

OPINION: It's time to find solution for veterans' care

It was just a few months ago that a veteran from Southeast Montana contacted me for help.

Births, published July 10

Scotland Craig Catter, son of William and Marianne Catter, was born April 22 at North Valley Hospital.

Daines to lead business talk in Kalispell

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Global Intellectual Property Center, will host U.S. Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., for a business roundtable discussion on trade and intellectual property on Monday, July 18.

LETTER: Clinton, Obama need to be prosecuted for Benghazi

Regarding Benghazi, I feel just like Tyrone Woods’ father or Sean Smith’s mother! Hillary and Obama are guilty of murder/dereliction of duty. This needs to stay in the news until they are prosecuted!

Hard-hitting alarm clock wakes man

Tribes hold meeting on Bison Range legislation

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes will hold a meeting Tuesday in Pablo to discuss proposed federal legislation that would restore the National Bison Range at Moiese to federal trust ownership for the tribes.

Clarissa 'Kissy' Waller, 85

Clarissa “Kissy” Waller quietly passed away on the evening of July1, 2016.

DAYBOOK, July 10

Keith Joseph Kolczak, 92

Keith Joseph Kolczak, 92, passed away on Tuesday July 5, 2016, in Kalispell.

Walter Dee Bilbro, 83

Walter Dee Bilbro, 83, passed away at his home in Kalispell surrounded by his loved ones on July 3, 2016, after a brief battle with cancer.

Madison Brooke 'Maddie' Duke, 17

The passing of Madison Brooke “Maddie” Duke, 17, in an auto accident July 3, 2016, left a huge hole in the lives of all who knew and loved her.

Thomas E. Sliter, 69

Thomas Sliter peacefully “followed his Lord’s call home” on Saturday, July 2, 2016.

COLUMN: From one soldier to another, a flag gift

It’s not often you can walk into a store and have your purchase paid for by someone else.

EDITORIAL: Libby needs to revise its charter

Not long ago, the mayor of Libby called a meeting with three City Council members. Together they could have decided on any course of action for the city since they represented a majority on the governing board.

Brian M. Yarbrough, 88

Brian M. Yarbrough passed away at his home in Venice, Florida, on May 3, 2016, at the age of 88.

SOFTBALL: Long days at ASA tourney

Jam-packed youth tournament enters championship rounds

Buckly Isakson will be in Alaska fishing just three days from now.

BASEBALL: Kalispell Lakers win twice more at Harp tournament

Kalispell A team advances to championship game

From raking hits to taking hits, the Kalispell Lakers A team found its way to the basepaths on Saturday, sweeping a pair of games for the second straight day at the John R. Harp Tournament at Griffin Field to claim a spot in the championship game.

BASEBALL: Glacier Twins split at Sapa-Johnsrud tourney

WHITEFISH — The Lethbridge Elks tallied five runs in the top half of the seventh inning to rally by the Glacier Twins 8-7 on Saturday evening at the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial tournament at Memorial Park.

LAW ROUNDUP: People decide to 'hug it out'

People preparing to fight with each other on First Avenue East quickly changed their tune. According to

Thomas E. Sliter, 69

Keith Joseph Kolczak, 92

Clarissa 'Kissy' Waller, 85

Walter Dee Bilbro, 83

Madison Brooke 'Maddie' Duke, 17

Brian M. Yarbrough, 88

COLUMN: The Wicked Witch and the Wizard of Laws

Call me Dorothy, and please get me out of “Kansas” — NOW!

Tips to help moms sleep better during back-to-school transitions

What a Wonderful World: Glacier Symphony and Byron Stripling

Cool temperatures and gorgeous skies were the perfect compliment to the Glacier Symphony Summer Pops concert featuring Byron Stripling on Friday, July 8, at Rebecca Farm.  (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana ASA softball tournament

Kalispell Regulators pitcher Haylee Meyer fields the ball and throws to first during a game against  on Saturday, July 9, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana ASA softball

Shortstop Illyssa Centner, left, and second baseman Sammie Labrum, center, force a runner a second base at Kidsports Complex on Saturday, July 9, 2016, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

New regent a Flathead High grad

Levi Birky, 21, has made his way from Flathead High School (where he graduated in 2013) to a position representing all college students in the state.

DAYBOOK, July 9

RELIGION ROUNDUP: 'Preacher's kid' to speak Sunday at Word of Life

Word of Life Christian Center will host the ministry of Jake Van Buren at 10 a.m. Sunday, July 10. Van Buren is a 2015 graduate of Rhema Bible College. Growing up as a “PK” (preacher’s kid), he has developed a unique perspective concerning church life and serving God as a young man.

Burglar violates probation, faces new sentence sentence

After violating his probation, Severin Fredrik Gislason, 21, has had his deferred sentence revoked for a 2014 burglary spree.

Fundraising underway to build new stadium in Columbia Falls

Burned bleachers removed

More than a week after a fire destroyed the Columbia Falls baseball stadium, an excavator removed the remaining debris to make room for a new grandstand.

BASEBALL: Lakers sweep opening day at Harp

Sweet-swinging Kalispell A team collects 38 hits in two games

Hitting the ball well all day, the Kalispell Lakers A were finally able to break through on the scoreboard late in a 12-4 victory over the (Spokane) Ferris Saxons to post their second win on first day at the John R. Harp American Legion baseball tournament on Friday at Griffin Field.

BASEBALL: Cannons shoot down Glacier Twins at Sapa-Johnsrud

Glacier coughs up 3-1 lead, loses for 2nd straight day

WHITEFISH — McKabe Cottrell battled through five gutty innings on the hill, then doubled home the game-tying run to lead the Spokane Cannons to a 4-3 win over the Glacier Twins A Friday night at Memorial Park, handing the Twins a second straight loss at the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial tournament.

SOFTBALL: ASA Junior Olympic tourney breezes through first day

Despite iffy weather conditions for the weekend, the Montana girls ASA Junior Olympic fastpitch softball tournament is off to a smooth start.

TRACK: Polson pole vaulter reaches finals at Olympic Trials

EUGENE, Ore. — Polson native Melinda (Owen) Withrow cleared 4.35 meters (14 feet, 3 inches) to advance to the finals of the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials on Friday at Hayward Field.

Glacier Twins baseball

Glacier Twins third baseman Tristin Steinwand tags out a Spokane Cannons baserunner Friday, July 8, 2016 at the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial Tournament in Whitefish. (Matt Baldwin/Whitefish Pilot)

Glacier Twins pitcher A.J. Wetsch

Glacier Twins pitcher A.J. Wetsch attempts to throw out a Spokane Cannons baserunner Friday, July 8, 2016 at Memorial Park in Whitefish. (Matt Baldwin/Whitefish Pilot)

LAW ROUNDUP: Cold reception at home over missing vegetables

Apparently a brouhaha occurred over a bag of vegetables on Liberty Street.

Birky

Birky receives Truman scholarship

Bundle up in the backcountry this weekend

Weather forecasters are warning those headed into the backcountry to expect high-elevation snow and unseasonably cold, wet weather by the end of the weekend.

Demolition of the Sapa Johnsrud Stadium

Tom Kemppainen works on demolishing the destroyed Sapa-Johnsrud Stadium on Thursday, July 7, in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Athlete of Year photos

Evergreen wreck

A three vehicle wreck at the intersection of U.S. 2 and Sager Lane significantly backed up east bound traffic on Friday afternoon, July 8, in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana ASA Junior Olympic tournament

Regulators pitcher Haylee Meyer pitches during a game against the Great Falls Big Sky Blitz on Friday, July 8, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Kalispell Lakers baseball

Kalispell Lakers baserunner Ryan Symmes jumps over a ball as he runs to third during a game against the Vauxhall Spurs on Friday, July 8, in Kalispell. Symmes scored the first run of the game on a base hit from Keaden Morisaki. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead cherry season arrives early

Crop looking good for harvest that is 10 days ahead of normal

The cherry harvest around Flathead Lake is expected to begin next week, about 10 days earlier than normal.

Glacier hits new high for June visitation

Halfway through 2016, Glacier National Park is on track for a third straight year of record visitation after 429,909 people filed through its gates in June — setting a single-month record.

LETTER: A formerly quiet spot to enjoy fireworks

What a fiasco!

LETTER: Why do pilots get treated differently?

Pilots and airport enthusiasts are being discriminated against.

LETTER: Justice delayed on lawsuit over water compact?

Despite occasional warts and wrinkles within the system, I have maintained a lifetime respect for our country’s judiciary. Decisions issued from a courtroom bench can change a life, a community, and sometimes a nation. The mental burden resting upon judges is likely incalculable.

LETTER: City airport should be allowed to stay

As a resident of South Kalispell, I feel the need to comment on the city airport issue. I have lived about 12 blocks east of the City Airport since buying this house in 1999. I don’t own an airplane, am not a pilot, nor have I ever had any business with anyone there. I live directly under the glide path for those airplanes landing from the east. And I LOVE that the airport is where it is.

OPINION: Would the real 28th Amendment please stand up?

I had the pleasure of attending the pro 28th Amendment gathering at the University of Montana on June 23, with the keynote speakers being retired Montana Supreme Court Justice James C. Nelson and President of American Promise Jeff Clements. The Flathead Valley’s own Rep. Frank Garner and former Secretary of State Bob Brown joined them in a support call for this measure.

Power restored after squirrel-caused outage

Thanks to a squirrel, electricity was out for 3,700 Flathead Electric Cooperative members on Friday morning.

WEEKEND UPDATE: Alvord Lake

A celebration of Alvord Lake begins at 10 a.m. today at Troy High School on 116 East Missoula Ave.

Man facing assault, kidnapping charges

Jason Tad Pennington, 39, has been charged with felony kidnapping and felony assault with a weapon.

Humility, dedication of officer touched many lives

An estimated 2,000 friends, family members and colleagues — representing more than a dozen law enforcement, emergency response and resource agencies — attended the celebration of life ceremony Thursday morning for Brad Treat, remembering the Flathead National Forest law enforcement officer as humble, dedicated and compassionate.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Water sports days planned July 12-15

DREAM Adaptive’s 2016 Summer Water Sports Program is July 12 to 14 at Mike and Julie Thompson’s house on Echo Lake near Bigfork.

Four plead not guilty in murder case

Four people charged in connection with the fatal stabbing of 35-year-old Wade Allen Rautio have pleaded not guilty.

Warren John Hogue, 86

Warren John Hogue passed away Monday, July 4, 2016, at Edgewood Vista Assisted Living in Kalispell.

DAYBOOK, June 8

EDITORIAL: Fire hall arsonist must be caught

Imagine the shock of firefighters reporting to their fire hall to respond to an accident scene and finding that instead their fire hall had become a crime scene.

COLUMN: Legion ball a labor of love

When the wildly successful 2014 Glacier Twins season ended following a trip to the American Legion regional tournament in Alaska, head coach Bob Rupp and the rest of the program’s board of directors took a look at the bottom line and saw a major problem.

Glacier Twins head coach Bob Rupp

Glacier Twins A head coach Bob Rupp instructs a pair of players in this file photo. (Matt Baldwin/Whitefish Pilot)

SOFTBALL: Montana ASA tournament opens Friday

12 Northwest teams represented in four divisions

The state’s softball programs turn once again to Kalispell, where 61 teams will travel for this weekend’s Montana girls ASA Junior Olympic fastpitch state tournament, beginning Friday at Kidsports and Conrad complexes. There are 12 teams from the Northwest represented in each of the four divisions: 10-and-under, 12-and-under, 14-and-under and 16-and-under. It is the first time in seven years that Kalispell has hosted the tournament.

BASEBALL: Nine teams entered in Kalispell Lakers' John R. Harp tournament

Three-day event features 19 games on two fields; play starts today at noon

Riding high after a comeback win over their cross-Valley rival Glacier Twins on Wednesday night, the Kalispell Lakers A begin their showcase home event Friday as the annual John R. Harp tournament begins at Griffin and Archie Roe fields.

Police ambushed in Dallas

A Dallas Area Rapid Transit police officer receives comfort at the Baylor University Hospital emergency room entrance Thursday, July 7, 2016, in Dallas. Police say one rapid-transit officer has been killed and three injured when gunfire erupted during a protest in downtown Dallas over recent fatal shootings by police in Louisiana and Minnesota. (Ting Shen/The Dallas Morning News via AP)

BASEBALL: Glacier Twins toppled at Sapa-Johnsrud tournament

WHITEFISH — The Butte Miners scored six times in the fourth inning to win 9-1 and spoil the opener for the Glacier Twins A at the Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial tournament at Memorial Park on Thursday.

Dallas carnage: Five officers dead, seven wounded

DALLAS — Gunmen shot and killed five police officers and wounded seven others during a protest over fatal police shootings of black men in other states, authorities said. It appeared to be the deadliest day for U.S. law enforcement since the 2001 terrorist attacks.

GOLF: Kahle named new Whitefish coach

Whitefish High School has tapped a familiar face to take over the varsity golf program.

Warren John Hogue, 86

LAW ROUNDUP: Fowl play has officers talking turkey

A man on Quincy Loop admitted to

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The procession of law enforcement vehicles goes through Kalispell to Legends Stadium for Brad Treat's funeral on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A work crew takes a break from their work on Fourth Street to watch the procession of law enforcement vehicles for Brad Treat's memorial service. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Megan Lester lays out basil to be planted at Whitefish Stage Organic Farms on Thursday, July 17, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Angie Kenney plants cabbage at Whitefish Stage Organic Farms. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Nikki Balla uses a tractor to cultivate at Whitefish Stage Organic Farms. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ted Wycall and Jill Brown clean and sort lettuce. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Robert Wittal enters the courtroom for his arraignment for deliberate homicide on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Scott Lester and Ted Wycall carry a sign to hang up for their newly-opened store. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Crates are full of fresh vegetables at the Whitefish Stage Organic Farms store. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Whitefish Stage Organic Farms partners Julia and Ted Wycall, from left, and Scott and Megan Lester, holding her son Landon, and Liam and Natalie Lester stand above the farm. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Melisa Crone enters the courtroom during the arraignment for the deliberate homicid of Wade Allen Rautio. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Christopher Hansen takes a seat as he waits for his arraignment for deliberate homicide on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The sign for the Whitefish Stage Organic Farms stands by Whitefish Stage Road to advertise the newly-opened store. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

David Toman

Go big for less: 4 simple ways to make a small kitchen feel bigger

Demolition of the Sapa Johnsrud Stadium

Tom Kemppainen works on demolishing the destroyed Sapa Johnsrud Stadium on Thursday, July 7, in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Montana Life: Thursday!Fest

Spectators enjoy the music of Andre Floyd and Mood Iguana at Thursday!Fest on June 30 in downtown Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

LETTER: Re-elect Bullock

Let’s be positive for a change. I am tired of all the negative political discourse on TV and in the press. Aren’t you?

Brad Treat Funeral

The presentation of the colors at the funeral of Brad Treat on Thursday morning, July 7, at Legends Stadium in Kalispell.

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Nine rangers responded to Glacier crash

Nine park rangers and two fire personnel responded to a Fourth of July car crash in Glacier National Park that halted traffic on Going-to-the-Sun Road for at least two hours, a park spokeswoman said Wednesday.

Agency plans to lease wildlife area for farming

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has issued a decision on a proposal to lease 359 acres of the 429-acre North Shore Wildlife Management Area for five years.

LETTER: AR-15 is a much maligned gopher gun

Steve Wheat from Polson wrote a letter to the editor asking for answers to some gun-related questions.

OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Star gazers gather Friday at Lone Pine

Have you ever seen meteor craters on the moon up close? Have you ever tried to count the moons circling Jupiter or seen the rings of Saturn?

Music program earns state recognition

A senior living and memory-care community in Kalispell was recognized by the Montana Health Care Association for its effort to use music to create a fulfilling environment for its residents.

LETTER: Assault weapon propaganda

In response to Steve Wheat’s letter to the editor of June 23:

COLUMN: Air pressure affects fish bite

I hope everyone had a great Fourth of July holiday, and what a difference a year makes!

Whitefish Airport shut down by skijoring damage

The Whitefish Airport will remain closed this summer after the runway was damaged during the skijoring event last winter.

City council digest

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

Man files suit against Ronan Police Department

A man once charged with felony assault on a police officer has sued the Ronan Police officer who arrested him after the Lake County Attorney’s Office dropped the assault case.

Suicide help now available by text message

As Montana’s suicide rate continues to rise beyond national levels, state officials’ most recent effort has packaged crisis support to fit the age of texting.

DAYBOOK, July 7

Alpine Theatre Project opens summer season

Alpine Theatre Project is back and ready to inspire, rock out and bare it all in its 2016 summer repertory season.

This Week in the Flathead | July 7-13

EDITORIAL: Sliter lived life worthy of his family legacy

The name Sliter is etched in the history of the Flathead Valley, but Tom Sliter didn’t rely on his name to get ahead.

COLUMN: Sewing more seamheads

A cold and rainy day isn’t perfect for baseball.

BASEBALL: Sapa-Johnsrud tournament begins Thursday in Whitefish

WHITEFISH — The Glacier Twins have a second chance to defend a tourney title on their home diamond, beginning Thursday when the 32nd annual Sapa-Johnsrud Memorial tournament begins at Memorial Park.

BASEBALL: Lakers A rally to stun Twins A in Legion thriller

Kalispell splits home-and-home with dramatic late win over Glacier

The Kalispell Lakers A scored two runs in the bottom of the eighth inning and wiggled out of a major jam in the top of the ninth to edge the Glacier Twins A 4-3 Wednesday night at Griffin Field in the second game of a home-and-home series against their cross-Valley rivals.

David Bernard Phillips, 94

LAW ROUNDUP: Cartoon character 'acting out' near Marion

A man on Old Creek Road in Marion may have been channeling Yosemite Sam when a neighbor told

Ryan Wardinsky

I have a rare disease called TGCT, also known as PVNS or GCT-TS. What now? Is it treatable?

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Monica Heger rides up the Going-to-the-Sun Road for the second annual Glacier Ride on Wednesday. The ride is hosted by Climate Ride to bring awareness to the environmental issues facing Glacier and will raise money for the Glacier National Park Conservancy. Wednesday was the second day of the six-day, 250-mile ride. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ingrid rides up the Going-to-the-Sun Road for the second annual Glacier Ride on Wednesday. The ride is hosted by Climate Ride to bring awareness to the environmental issues facing Glacier and will raise money for the Glacier National Park Conservancy. Wednesday was the second day of the six-day, 250-mile ride. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Josh McGillis of Billings helps the driver at of her car after she ran off the road on U.S. 2 east of Columbia Falls on Wednesday. Nobody was injured in the one-vehicle accident. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A National Park Service worker talks to hikers who spotted a bear on the Highline Trail in Glacier National Park on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Alpine Theatre Project Summer Season

Nick Spear and Eric Michael Krop rehearse a scene from their upcoming production of Rock of Ages on Sunday evening, July 3, in the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Popular Highline Trail opens in Glacier Park

Grizzly mom, cub move over to Hidden Lake Trail

Two of the first visitors to hike Glacier National Park’s popular Highline Trail this year took in some unexpected scenery Wednesday morning when a grizzly sow and her cub materialized from the alpine fog blanketing the area.

Healthy living for Hispanic-Americans this summer

New Study Reveals America's Laundry Habits

Business, civic leader Tom Sliter dies at 69

Tom Sliter, an active community leader and owner of Sliters Ace Lumber & Building Supply for 30 years, died Saturday. He was 69.

DAYBOOK, July 6

Lost Beetle forest project OK'd

Tally Lake District Ranger Lisa Timchak has approved the Lost Beetle Healthy Forest Restoration Project.

LOCAL ROUNDUP: Cakes for Celts to benefit festival

Two events are planned this month to raise money for the Flathead Celtic Festival:

3 simple, fast changes to make your kitchen more usable and beautiful

Valesca Louise Wallner, 98

Valesca Wallner died just short of her 99th birthday on June 30, 2016, at The Springs in Whitefish.

Charles H. 'Chuck' Barton, 89

Charles H. “Chuck” Barton, 89, passed away in his sleep on June 14. He was at home in Bigfork.

Cheryl E. (Rames) Tweet, 72

Cheryl E. (Rames) Tweet, 72, a beautiful lady who shared cashes of smiles to all her banking customers over the past 40 years in Kalispell, lost the race to cancer on July 3, 2016.

Lakers AA return home, earn split

Road weary Kalispell wins opener in first home series since June 5

The Kalispell Lakers AA have spent a lot of time on the bus.

LEGION ROUNDUP: Twins outlast Lakers A in first of back-to-back series

Glacier A scores twice in 8th to edge Kalispell

WHITEFISH — A double from Tyler Murphy and bases-loaded walk from Vinny Smith in the eighth inning lifted the Glacier Twins A over cross-Valley rival Kalispell Lakers A 4-2 in an American Legion baseball game on Tuesday night at Memorial Park.

Cheryl E. (Rames) Tweet, 72

Charles H. 'Chuck' Barton, 89

Business, civic leader Tom Sliter dies at 69

Funeral motorcade will pass through Kalispell on Thursday

Flathead National Forest officials are planning for 3,000 people to attend Thursday’s funeral ceremony at Legends Stadium for Brad Treat, the forest law enforcement officer who was attacked and killed by a bear while mountain biking last week.

Kalispell Lakers AA baseball

Kalispell Lakers AA shortstop Andrew Schleusner throws to first to complete a double play in the first game against Medicine Hat at Griffin Field on Tuesday. Schleusner went 2 for 3 Lakers' 9-3 victory. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Fundraising campaign aims to help boat explosion victims

Explosion ‘lit almost everyone on fire’

In just one day, a fundraising campaign has raised nearly $4,000 for five family members who were burned after their boat exploded during a camping trip to Swan Lake over the Fourth of July weekend.

Crash claims life of Bigfork student

Madison Brooke Duke, 17, was known as a kind, caring, lovable and bright student by teachers and staff members at Bigfork High School.

Arson damage: 'hundreds of thousands' of dollars

The Smith Valley Fire Department is still cleaning up and assessing the total damage after an arsonist struck its Foy’s Lake fire hall last weekend, but Fire Chief D.C. Haas estimates the total loss is “hundreds of thousands” of dollars.

Sun Road crash involved seven people

A total of seven people were injured in a Fourth of July head-on collision on Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road, according to park spokeswoman Margie Steigerwald.

From UV rays to allergies: 5 ways to protect your eyes this summer

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Charge in alleged stabbing dropped

Authorities have dropped a charge of felony assault with a weapon filed against a man for allegedly stabbing a man.

Legion baseball: Mariners drop tourney finale to Braves in 11 innings

POLSON — Livingston scored three runs in the top of the 11th inning to down the Mission Valley Mariners A 7-4 on Monday in the American Legion baseball championship game of the Firecracker Tournament.

Brad Treat, 38

On the afternoon of June 29, 2016, Brad Treat passed away near his home outside of Glacier National Park as a result of an encounter with a bear. Brad was 38 years old.

Firefighters respond to two small fires

Firefighters called to two small firesFirefighters were called to two small wildfires Monday, both of which appeared under control by evening.

Truck driver rescued from water

‘I couldn’t hold him much longer’

An Evergreen man was saved by the quick actions of a neighbor Monday afternoon after his truck rolled down a bank at the edge of a mobile-home park and pinned him underwater.

Glacier Park head-on collision injures five

Two vehicles on Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road collided head-on Monday afternoon, injuring at least five people.

Brad Treat

Fourth of July parade

David Mosby practices reading the Gettysburg Address prior to the Ice Cream Social at the Conrad Mansion on Monday, July 4. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Rollover accident in Evergreen

Construction on Taylor Creek Road starts Tuesday

The Flathead National Forest is installing new culverts, drain dips, and performing surface milling this week along Taylor Creek Road, also known as Forest System Road 9790.

Kalispell crews to work on Fourth Street West

The city of Kalispell will be performing street maintenance on Fourth Street West between Main Street and Second Avenue West.

Whitefish council to vote on proposed Marriott Hotel

The Whitefish City Council will consider a scaled-back plan for a Marriott hotel during a public hearing on Tuesday.

Chain-saw artist makes masterpieces from logs

Living in Montana, we can’t help but see the trees. They are a beautiful and undeniable part of our natural environment.

Spring open burning season over

Open burning is prohibited during the months of July, August and September.

Rescue truck destroyed by arson

Legion baseball: Glacier Twins A sweep Mavs

WHITEFISH — Ryan Veneman tossed a 2-hitter to power the Glacier Twins A to a 9-0 victory in the opener of an American Legion baseball doubleheader with the Missoula Mavs A on Sunday at Memorial Field.

LAW ROUNDUP: Mower worries about disturbing the peace

One person dies in fiery crash north of Kalispell

One person died in a fiery crash off U.S. 93 north of Kalispell on Sunday afternoon, while another person in the vehicle survived.

Fire engine damaged by arsonist

Firefighters from the Smith Valley Fire Department discovered Sunday morning that the fire hall had been the target of an arsonist. Damage was extensive. (Photo courtesy D.C. Haas)

Arsonist kicks in door, burns Smith Valley fire hall

Chief says response times will be impacted

Authorities are trying to figure out who broke into the Smith Valley fire hall on Foys Lake Road late Saturday night or early Sunday morning and set a fire that caused massive damage. The fallout is expected to slow response to emergency calls in the area.

Services for mauling victim set for Thursday

Memorial scholarship fund being established

A celebration of life ceremony will be conducted for Brad Treat at 10 a.m. Thursday at Legends Field in Kalispell.

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OPINION: The enduring strength of the American spirit

As we pause to celebrate the anniversary of our nation’s independence, it seems appropriate to consider the vital role played by the American military in the creation of our nation and its transformation of our world.

OPINION: People are the problem, not goats

The May 29 Inter Lake (“Border collie trained to work at Logan Pass”) carried the news that Mark Biel, GNP’s natural resources program manager, will soon begin using his own personal dog Gracie to herd (“harass”) mountain goats away from tourists who approach the animals too closely, raising concerns that a visitor might be injured.

LETTER: GOP should try governing for a change

Benghazi, Benghazi: the Republicans have been trying for 25 years to nail Hillary Clinton with something that will stick, and now they have failed again, with a politically motivated investigation that cost the taxpayers $7 million, took longer than the 9/11 probe, and basically found nothing new.

Parole violator sentenced to prison

Despite a tearful plea to return to his family soon, Michael Thomas Kullberg, 27, received a 10-year sentence to Montana State Prison with five years suspended

LETTER: Close city airport

Boosters of the Kalispell City Airport are publishing highly deceptive claims in their paid advertisements for keeping the airport open.

LETTER: State park deal should be rescinded

I am deeply concerned about the decision made by the administration of Montana State Parks to allow exclusive  access for kayak and SUP rentals three days a week to one business.

OPINION: Undercutting the Gordian knot of the courthouse couplet

Here is a simple but effective way to deal with the U.S. 93 problems at the south end of Kalispell and have two lanes northbound and two lanes southbound at the county facilities at 800 S. Main St. without the previous traffic problems. This kind of solution is done all over the world including in the U.S. All the proposed solutions so far involve going around the building and jail at this location including possibly tying up other parallel streets. The simple solution to this problem is just to take U.S. 93 under the county courthouse and historic jail building.

Purple Mountain Lavender a growing business in Lakeside

Any day now, as the bees and butterflies swarm the fields of purple blooms high above Lakeside, Deborah Davis will send out a “lavender alert” and friends will come running.

Rendezvous reloads fur trade days

Every summer in the Northern Rockies, adherents to the pioneer lifestyle don powder bags, felt caps and furs, sight in their muzzleloaders and gather in the forest to celebrate a frontier tradition stretching back nearly two centuries.

Cedar Creek Lodge opens in C. Falls

The $7 million-plus Cedar Creek Lodge and Conference Center opened Friday in Columbia Falls, and the place is hopping.

OPINION: Reasons to keep open the Kalispell City Airport

The Kalispell Life-Flight plane is flying-in a wounded man. His “golden time,” his best chance for survival, fades. Seconds count! If the pilot lands at Glacier Park International Airport, the waiting ambulance will take 20 minutes to get to the hospital. If he lands at Kalispell City Airport, the ambulance will pull up to the emergency entrance in less than six. Which should the pilot choose?

Dennis Paul Ostroot, 72

Dennis Paul Ostroot, 72, of Bigfork, died June 27, 2016, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Donald Marlon Johnson, 76

On June 30, Don won his 20-year fight with cancer, during which he lived with his boundless measures of grace, enthusiasm, laughter and humility.

Keep your pets safe this July 4

The Flathead County Animal Shelter wants pet owners to enjoy the Fourth of July holiday while keeping their pets safe and secure.

James Cone, 91

James Cone, 91, born March 4, 1925, died peacefully on June 27, 2016, at his home, which he shared with his devoted granddaughter, Sarah, who provided for his care right up to the moment of his passing.

Berniece May Upham-Atkinson, 104

Berniece May “Auntie Bea” Upham-Atkinson, 104, passed away on Wednesday, June 29, 2016, at her residence in Creston.

Richard N. 'Hazard' Hansard, 68

Richard “Hazard” Hansard, 68, grudgingly succumbed to chronic medical conditions on May 28, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

COLUMN: Bologna news a refreshing change from U.S. politics

Up until a couple of months ago, I used to enjoy watching the morning news on TV while I ate breakfast and sipped a cup of coffee. I can’t do it any more.

EDITORIAL: Celebrate our American greatness

As we celebrate Independence Day tomorrow, we do so knowing America remains the land of the free and the home of the brave, even in these unsettling times.

Wayne Hammond

Violet Hammond

Medley eagles to win Fourth of July tourney

Arizona golfer hits 40-foot eagle putt, makes up 2 shots on last hole for win

WHITEFISH — Andrew Medley closed with a flourish, holing an eagle putt from 40 feet out to finish the last two holes 3-under-par and win the 80th annual Earl Hunt Memorial Fourth of July Tournament by one stroke on Saturday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

Legion baseball: Loggers romp by Mariners B at Firecracker tourney

POLSON — Bryadan Thom and Collin Johnson were perfect at the plate while Dylon Lane drove in four runs as the Libby Loggers A crushed the Mission Valley Mariners B 23-3 on Saturday in second-day action at the Mission Valley Mariners Firecracker Baseball Tournament.

Track: Annie Hill wins Nike Elite mile

EUGENE, Ore. — Glacier distance runner Annie Hill collected another trophy this weekend, winning the girls exhibition mile run at the Nike Elite Camp at the U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials at historic Hayward Field on the campus of the University of Oregon.

LAW ROUNDUP: Adults, children sustain burns in boat explosion

Rendezvous reloads fur trade days

John Willcut fires his rifle at one of the targets set up throughout the accuracy shooting course.

DAYBOOK, July 3

Donald Marlon Johnson, 76

James Cone, 91

Dennis Paul Ostroot, 72

Richard N. 'Hazard' Hansard, 68

Berniece May Upham-Atkinson, 104

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Montana Baron third baseman Jayce Cripe attempts to tag a Bozeman baserunner as he slides off the bag during a 13U Babe Ruth Game of the Firecracker Tournament at Kidsports on Saturday. The Flathead Valley area team defeated the Bozeman Junior Bucks 11-1 in 4 innings. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Sadie Crippen

Sadie Crippen of Missoula drives the ball on the ninth hole of the South Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the final round of the 80th annual Earl Hunt Memorial Fourth of July Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Maggie Crippen

Maggie Crippen of Missoula drives the ball on the 10th hole of the South Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the final round of the 80th annual Earl Hunt Memorial Fourth of July Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Ryan Porch

Ryan Porch of Kalispell chips onto the fifth green of the North Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the final round of the 80th annual Earl Hunt Memorial Fourth of July Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Mark Mance

Mark Mance of Whitefish chips onto the fifth green of the North Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the final round of the 80th annual Earl Hunt Memorial Fourth of July Tournament on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

COLUMN: No expiration date on America's fight against tyranny

Bear-trapping effort called off

Mountain biker collided with bear

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has ended efforts to trap the bear involved in a fatal mauling Wednesday a few miles south of West Glacier.

Bear search

C.F. police chief fired after inmate escapes

Longtime Columbia Falls Police Chief Dave Perry has been fired.

Artist's acrylic work a hit at Comic-Con

Artwork sold to actor Nicolas Cage

A former Kalispell man’s weekend art business began when he painted a mural of comic heroes on his children’s bedroom wall.

HOLIDAY ROUNDUP: Fourth to be full of fireworks, fun

RED, WHITE AND BOOM

Fireworks return to the skies over Northwest Montana for this year’s Fourth of July celebrations.

DAYBOOK, June 2

Births, published July 2

Vivian Tufly, daughter of Brian and Lindsey Tufly of Bigfork, was born March 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Legion baseball: Lakers A split with Red Sox

The Kalispell Lakers wound up splitting with the Bitterroot Red Sox in Class A American Legion baseball play Friday evening at Griffin Field.

Field tightens in Whitefish at 4th of July tourney

WHITEFISH —­ A change of venue shook up the leaderboard on another gorgeous day at the 80th annual Earl Hunt Memorial Fourth of July golf tournament on Friday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.

LAW ROUNDUP: Ducks brave tourist traffic on U.S. 2

A Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputy responded Friday morning after a person told dispatch that they “can’t get a hold of the bird lady” after seeing a mother duck and her ducklings were stranded in the turning land on East Idaho Street in Kalispell. The deputy did not see any ducks on the road.

Artist's acrylic work a hit at Comic-Con

Kelly Junior Hartman sold his original acrylic piece to actor Nicolas Cage.

Bear evades search efforts

The bear that attacked and killed a mountain biker Wednesday continued to evade state wildlife managers Friday after a third day scouring the area south of West Glacier.

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The lobby of the Cedar Creek Lodge was designed in the style of the Glacier National Park Lodges. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The conference room of Cedar Creek Lodge can accommodate more than 400 people. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A room at Cedar Creek Lodge. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Cedar Creek Lodge project manager and interim general manager Erick Enz, left, and Cedar Creek Lodge developer Mick Ruis stand in front of the lodge on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Gerianne Eckelberry jumps into Flathead Lake at Somers Bay on Thursday. It was Eckelberry's 26th day in a row of jumping into the lake. She plans to jump in the lake for 60 consecutive days. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Maggie Crippen tees off from the 10th hole at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the Fourth of July golf tournament on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ryan Porch reacts after just missing a birdie putt on the 18th hole on the South Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club during the Fourth of July golf tournament on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Daniel Pickler and Heather Brothers

Daniel Pickler smiles as he paints with his mom Heather Brothers at their home in Somers on Thursday, June 30, 2016. 

Flags at Half Staff

The American Flag is being flown today at half staff outside the Flathead National Forest Offices in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Top 5 ways you could have your own personal "Brexit Boom"

Ravalli fire

A fire on Ravalli Hill near the National Bison Range has burned 500 acres since it started Thursday. (Devlin Lafrombois photo/Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Division of Fire)

OPINION: Unforgiving tax deadlines are not fair

Five weeks ago, my brother had a near-fatal motorcycle accident in Orlando, Florida. It was a Saturday. We were having a garage sale at our home in Bigfork, enjoying ourselves as we met new people and had friendly conversations. At 10 a.m., my sister received a phone call from our nephew telling us that our youngest brother had been airlifted to the hospital following an accident.

Sentence deferred for young drug courier

A Washington man blamed part of his involvement in transporting luggage containing marijuana from Seattle to Wisconsin aboard an Amtrak train to being “young and dumb and hanging around the wrong crowd.”

Brad Treat

LETTER: When logging, mining left, so did jobs

The United States has got the finest Forest Service in the world — best trained in the science of timber management, soil and water disease, insects etc. These are dedicated people.

Whitefish hospital leader shifts to Kalispell job

A month after North Valley Hospital was pulled under the umbrella of Kalispell Regional Healthcare System, the Whitefish hospital’s chief executive officer has stepped down to transition into a new position at the Kalispell hospital.

Woman, 25, charged with drug dealing

Kerrie Nicole Howell, 25, has been charged with four felony criminal distribution of dangerous drugs.

LETTER: Independence from meat industry needed

Whatever happened to the good old days when our worst worries on the Fourth of July were traffic jams and wayward fireworks?

LETTER: In praise of greatest local runners

Flathead’s Jake Perrin certainly must be congratulated for being one of the greatest distance runners, winning both the 1,600 meters and 3,200 meters and holding the all-class record, as of now, in both races.

How we practice pharmacy smarter [Video]

What is a specialty pharmacy? [Video]

LOCAL ROUNDUP: ACT for America leader will explain progress

Kelly Cook, ACT for America’s field director, will be the guest speaker at the organization’s next meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 7, at Sykes’ in Kalispell.

DAYBOOK, July 1

Rita McLeod, 77

On June 29 at 6 p.m., “the Lord put on his dancing shoes to welcome home” our loving, caring, and talented wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend.

EDITORIAL: Pianoforte: Fund drive pays off

A year early, a community fundraising effort has paid off for music lovers in the Flathead Valley.

Ronald Dennis Mickelson, 71

Ronald Dennis Mickelson passed from this crazy earth on June 28, 2016, after a 12-year battle with cancer.