Thursday, June 30
Legion baseball: Red Sox drop Twins A in opener
WHITEFISH — The Glacier Twins tied it at 4-all with two runs in the bottom of the seventh inning, but the Bitterroot Red Sox followed with two more in the top of the eighth to prevail 6-4 in the first game of a Class A American Legion baseball doubleheader on Thursday evening.
Krause, Crippen lead at 4th of July golf tournament
WHITEFISH — Sam Krause felt right at home on the North Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Club, carding the low round on the opening day of the 80th annual Fourth of July golf tournament on Thursday.

Bear hunt
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks game warden Perry Brown prepares to hunt for the killer bear on Wednesday. (Chris Peterson/Hungry Horse News)

Bear sign
A sign for an area closure for bear activity stands in front of the Green Gate/Half Moon Trail Area on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Death may be first in Flathead Forest
Wednesday’s fatal bear mauling near West Glacier was perhaps the first in the history of the Flathead National Forest, which lies adjacent to Glacier National Park and contains some of the most productive grizzly bear habitat in the lower 48 states.

Ronald Dennis Mickelson, 71

Rita McLeod, 77
Mauling story goes worldwide
Northwest Montana doesn’t typically make the morning news on the East Coast, but when reports that a bear had attacked and killed a mountain biker near Glacier National Park began circulating online Wednesday, the deluge of media requests began.
Forest area closed following mauling
The Flathead National Forest has expanded the area closed to the public around the site of Wednesday’s fatal bear attack south of West Glacier.

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Mike Potter puts a tire on his fat bike at Wheatons on Wednesday. The bike, which Potter rode across America on, was stolen from him about eight months ago. The bike was recovered after it was brought it to Wheatons to get repaired and Wheatons manager Hans Axelsen recognized it. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Wheatons manager Hans Axelsen, left, and Mike Potter stand with Potter's recovered fat bike in front of the cycle shop in Kalispell on Wednesday. Mike Potter puts a tire on his fat bike at Wheatons on Wednesday. The bike, which Potter rode across America on, was stolen from him about eight months ago. The bike was recovered after it was brought it to Wheatons to get repaired and Wheatons manager Hans Axelsen recognized it. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A sign for an area closure for bear activity stands in front of the green gate/Halfmoon Trail Area on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead Pioneers Cover

Flathead Pioneers

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LETTER: Stow the prejudice and share the road
I am so tired of hearing about the “problem” presented by bicycles on the roadway. Let’s set aside the well-established issue of “rights” to the road and examine some practical ones.

Mauling victim 'made people laugh no matter what'
The victim of a bear mauling Wednesday was remembered as a top-notch law enforcement officer.
OPINION: Airport benefits very few people
Never have so many given so much to so few for so little. That’s the Kalispell City Airport!
LETTER: Fight for timber jobs that are left
With the recent news that Weyerhaeuser is closing down two of its mills in Columbia Falls, I have experienced many different emotions. How is this possible when the ink has yet to dry on the paper proclaiming that Plum Creek is now Weyerhaeuser?

Expert team tries to track down bear
The bear responsible for Wednesday’s fatal mauling south of West Glacier remained at large Thursday night as state wildlife officials headed home empty-handed after a full day scouring the area in the Flathead National Forest near the scene of the attack.

Bear closure
LETTER: Mill closure a great travesty
The unexpected closure of Weyerhaeuser late last week is one of the greatest travesties that could hit Columbia Falls. Another noble icon of our community is going to disappear and it is unacceptable that it had to come to this.
COLUMN: Pike fishing has some serious fans
It is Saturday and here I am slaving away writing a column for next Thursday’s paper. I am sitting on the deck of my cabin on Crystal and Lavon Lakes in the Thompson Chain of Lakes. It is about 70 degrees and sunny.

Summer travel: 3 common credit card myths busted
OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Youth archery class offered at Lone Pine Park
Montana State Parks will host Kids Archery 101 at Lone Pine State Park today from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.
DAYBOOK, June 30

6 deck dos for creating your own deck escape

Say 'I Do' To Smoother Skin
This Week in the Flathead | June 30 - July 6
THURSDAY, JUNE 30

Glacier Symphony welcomes trumpeter Byron Stripling
'That's the power of music'
Jazz trumpeter Byron Stripling is coming to Kalispell for two nights of “Misbehavin’ with the Symphony.”
EDITORIAL: It's time to put Benghazi to rest
Are we done yet?
Man faces charges after June 18 highway chase
A man apprehended by law enforcement following a high-speed chase on June 18 has been charged with felony criminal endangerment and misdemeanor assault.

COLUMN: Johnston drawing attention from NCAA's elite
Ryggs Johnston is well known.
MENS ATHLETE OF THE YEAR
Wednesday, June 29
Texas ex-con threatens deputies
A so-called ex-convict out of Texas on Montana 40 in Columbia Falls threatened

College housing

College hones designs for student housing
Flathead Valley Community College is in the final phase of designing its first on-campus student housing.

'That's the power of music'
Two young concert-goers watch a past Summer Symphony Pops performance at Rebecca Farm. This year’s summer show will feature jazz trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling.

Byron Stripling

Bear hunt

Grizzly bear kills mountain biker
A West Glacier mountain bicyclist was killed Wednesday afternoon by a grizzly bear near West Glacier.

Driver injured in highway rollover
An 18-year-old Kila woman was extricated from her pickup truck using Jaws of Life after her vehicle rolled into a ditch Wednesday afternoon on U.S. 2 West at mile marker 120.

Rollover west of Kalispell

Using technology to empower people with diabetes

Babe Ruth Glacier fundraising
Austyn Andrachick, front to back, Hunter Palmer, and Trenton Tyree (on Palmer’s shoulders) and other team members wave to cars to invite them to their fundraiser car wash on Tuesday afternoon, June 28, in Whitefish. Ironically the day the community woke up to learn the bleachers at the Sapa-Johnsrud Babe Ruth Fields has been destroyed in a fire the team members were already scheduled to do the fundraiser at the Cenex Zip Trip to help with travel expenses for tournaments. Babe Ruth President Ray Queen said the field doesn’t have any structural insurance. That means the costs of repairs will have to be met by the league. Fundraisers are still in the discussion phase but there is a GoFundMe page through which the league is trying to raise $30,000. People can donate by visiting: https://www.gofundme.com/sapa-johnsrud (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

10 simple ideas for maximizing family time throughout the summer

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Purple Mountain Lavender has 30 different types of lavender on about a quarter of an acre of land above Lakeside. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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An old Studebaker truck is one of the details that decorate the Purple Mountain Lavender. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Folgate is one of the 30 types of lavender grown at Purple Mountain Lavender. Deb uses it for culinary items like salt, sugar, pepper and herbes de Provence. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A student of Karen Lee's Flathead Valley Community College water painting class paints the lavender field during a trip to Purple Mountain Lavender on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jeanne Tallman takes a picture during a trip to Purple Mountain Lavender with Karen Lee's Flathead Valley Community College water painting class on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Deb Davis uses a distiller to make lavender essential oils, hydrosol and linen spray. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Purple Mountain Lavender barn should be full of lavender by August. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The sun shines on the lavender of Purple Mountain Lavender in Lakeside. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flower pots on a bicycle frame are used to decorate Purple Mountain Lavender. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Deb Davis, the owner of Purple Mountain Lavender in Lakeside, sits in her lavender field on Wednesday, June 22, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Deb Davis, the owner of Purple Mountain Lavender in Lakeside, sits in her lavender field on Wednesday, June 22, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Back-to-school 101 for kids with allergies and asthma

4 ways to boost your family's health
Proposed retreat center raises concerns
County’s Board of Adjustment will revisit project on July 5
A proposed camp and retreat center south of Whitefish has raised concerns among neighbors about access, traffic and neighborhood intrusion.
Commissioners vote today on spending plan
The Flathead County commissioners today will consider adopting a preliminary budget for the next fiscal year that is $13.7 million less than last year’s budget.
Retiree, kayak reunited after highway tumble
Driving south out of Kalispell Sunday evening, Nancy Robison’s heart dropped when she realized her $450 retirement present had fallen from the bed of her truck — just 20 minutes after she bought the kayak.
Glacier extends shuttle service on west side
Glacier National Park’s free optional shuttle system that provides daily service along the Going-to-the-Sun Road during peak season begins operating on Friday and will continue through Sept. 5.

5 hot trends in school supplies
Bigfork ministry searches for more volunteers
As a Bigfork ministry grows, its leaders are looking to fill the gaps in mentors reaching out to support teens throughout the Flathead Valley.
DAYBOOK, June 29

A New Way To Lift Sagging Cheeks Without Invasive Surgery

Marlyn James, 70
Marlyn James passed very peacefully on June 25, 2016, from complications following brain surgery.
Tuesday, June 28

Veneman, Twins shut down Rangers
Twins A hold Kootenai Valley to one hit in 10-0 win
WHITEFISH — Ryan Veneman allowed just a single infield hit and James Sampson-Keck drove in three runs as the Glacier Twins A bounced back from a disappointing end of the weekend to blast the Kootenai Valley Rangers 10-0 at Memorial Park on Tuesday night.

Glacier Twins baseball
Glacier Twins A shortstop Colten Parker throws to first to complete a double play in the Twins' 10-0, seven-inning victory against the Kootenai Valley Rangers on Tuesday, June 28, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
LAW ROUNDUP: Would-be thief blasted with bear spray
One of two men reportedly was hit with bear spray by a quick-thinking Fifth Avenue West North resident when the men attempted to push into the resident’s door when she went to let her dogs out. The men were described to

Marlyn James, 70
LETTER: City airport is a lost cause
Whoa! 12 people protest the closing of the Kalispell City Airport. I’d venture to say nine of them don’t even live in Kalispell, but 12 people are a small and insignificant number to be protesting such a matter as this. After all it’s been in the news and on the City Council agendas for years.
LETTER: Sen. Daines, please stop me before I donate to the Dems again!
Sen. Daines, please quit making me give money to the Democrats! I really don’t like the Democratic Party but I promised to donate $9 to three different Democratic Party PACS every week until you give President Obama’s Supreme Court nominee a hearing and a vote AS REQUIRED BY THE CONSTITUTION.
Stranded family rescued after Middle Fork mishap
It was a team effort for emergency responders who airlifted a Kalispell family of five to safety Monday night after their raft capsized and left them stranded on a boulder in the Middle Fork of the Flathead River.
County plans $77.7 million in building projects
Flathead County has rolled out a proposed $77.7 million capital improvement plan for the next five years that includes $50 million for a new jail in 2020 and 2021.

Enjoy classic milk pairings while helping families in need

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Firefighters watch as flames build inside a room during training inside a house in Ferndale on Saturday. Nearly 30 members from the Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department, Bigfork Fire Department and the Swan Lake Volunteer Fire Department participated in the training. Ferndale Fire Chief Ken Sharr said the training was invaluable for the new members of the fire department so they could learn how fire and smoke behaves inside of a room during a structure fire. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Fernadale Volunteer Fire Department Chief Ken Sharr watches a fire build inside a room of a house in Ferndale during training on Saturday. Sharr said the training was invaluable for the new members of the three fire departments that participated in the training and something that can't be simulated at a training facility. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A truck sits after catching on fire on Kila Road on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Sapa-Johnsrud Babe Ruth Field stadium destroyed
Ray Queen stops to have a portrait taken in front of the ruins of the Sapa-Johnsrud Babe Ruth Field stadium on Tuesday, June 28, in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Baseball bleachers destroyed by fire

A+ lunchbox solutions for balanced back-to-school meals

My Journey: 30 Years Living with Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis
Hobby Lobby coming to Kalispell
Hobby Lobby plans to build a 55,000-square-foot store in Spring Prairie Commons near the Kidsports athletic complex in Kalispell.
Airport vote moved to Aug. 1
The Kalispell City Council vote on whether to close down the city-owned airport on the south side of town has been delayed until Aug. 1.

Helping first-time home buyers get from 'I can't' to 'I can'

Why your employer wants you to volunteer - and why you should

FJ June 2016 Cover

At Home June 2016 Cover

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Bleacher fire

Baseball bleachers 'a total loss'
Fireworks blamed for devastating fire
After a Monday night fire devastated the Columbia Falls baseball stadium, the president of the Glacier Babe Ruth League assessed the damage.

The right technology services are the key to killer customer service
Council still working on short-term rental issue
During a more than two-hour discussion of how to handle short-term rentals popping up within city limits, the Kalispell City Council’s Monday night work session focused on the potential impacts of legalizing the practice and whether it should be subject to density restrictions.

Whitefish Steinway paid off, maintenance fund in place
'MISSION ACCOMPLISHED'
In 2012 a group of community members — led by John Simpson and Miriam Singer — came up with a plan to make “world-class performances on a world-class instrument” available to the Flathead Valley.
Surgeons' rock band headlines cancer fundraiser
A rock band of six gynecologic oncology surgeons from across the country are coming to the Flathead Valley for a benefit concert that aims to support Flathead Cancer Aid Services.
Monday, June 27
Whitefish has openings on three committees
The city of Whitefish is filling vacancies on three city committees.
Forest road closed for slump repair
The Flathead National Forest has temporarily closed Hallowat Creek North Road (Forest Road No. 315) to complete repairs after heavy rainfall and snowmelt caused two large slumps.

Youths get close look at challenges of police work
Twelve participants in the third annual Kalispell Junior Police Academy learned what it takes to make split-second decisions under stress, weave through traffic cones in a mock vehicle pursuit, analyze a fictional crime scene and practice use-of-force and defense tactics while keeping ethics, integrity and values in mind.
Firecracker fans halted by police
Draft discharge permit released for water bottling plant
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality on Monday released a draft wastewater discharge permit for the Montana Artesian Water Co.’s proposed water bottling plant in Creston.

Kalispell woman returns from health mission in Africa
A clinic in the capital of Chad helped propel one Kalispell native’s career shift from working in global justice to connecting people with health-care needs.

Tips for a bug-free backyard barbecue

FJ June 2016

Online school: Taking the road less traveled to academic success
Traffic-flow options outlined for Courthouse couplet
Eight options for routing U.S. 93 traffic around the Flathead County Courthouse will be presented at a public meeting Tuesday.
New views unfold in Glacier after wildfires
The hike to St. Mary and Virginia Falls in Glacier National Park has always been one of the most popular strolls in the park.
Kalispell City Council takes up short-term rental rules
Short-term residential rentals will once again be up for discussion at tonight’s Kalispell City Council work session.
Sunday, June 26
Vehicle break-ins plague C. Falls
The
Niko Vincent Rossi, 5 weeks
Niko Vincent Rossi, 5 weeks, was born May 16, 2016, in Kalispell, to wonderful loving parents Jason and Ashley Rossi. God “called this perfect little baby boy home” early on June 20, 2016.

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OPINION: It's a wonderful world – not so much!
How wonderful life would be if we could look at a picture and say “I want to help these people” and that would be the end of the story.
OPINION: Liberal vs. conservative: What distinguishes them?
Before the primary election, this paper printed many letters in support of citizen candidates and most of them used words such as principled conservative, thoughtful conservative, realistic conservative, proven conservative and a real conservative. So what is a “REAL” conservative?
OPINION: Three keys to overcoming obstacles in any life
Happy times ahead
Montana is currently the state that holds the third highest suicide rate in the nation. When we as a society try to reason why the suicide rate is so high, we immediately think of the drug problem or the long and gloomy winters or even post-traumatic stress disorder. However, it seems as though we are spending more time trying to figure out what is causing the epidemic rather than constructively trying to combat the problem.
More work underway at Whitefish Mountain Resort's Summit House
Whitefish Mountain Resort is continuing an extensive remodel of its Summit House this summer as the resort makes more than $1 million in winter and summer improvements.
OPINION: No lone wolves among jihadis
Within hours of the terrorist attack in Orlando, President Obama, members of his administration and media pundits joined with representatives of the Council on American Islamic Relations, the Islamic Society of North America, and spokesmen from the local Islamic community to decry the “lone wolf” attack.
LETTER: Don't just rubber stamp spending on new projects
I’ve read some of the job descriptions of our county commissioners, including “juggling priorities and concerns in such areas as housing, environmental protection, transportation and economic development ...” But, I can’t help but wonder what the commissioners view as their job description, because if it is to “rubber stamp” every imaginable building project, anytime, anything, anywhere, then every one of them should be voted out of office.

At Home June 2016
OPINION: Swiss voters reject economic stupidity
Give Swiss voters credit — well, at least 77 percent of them. In a recent national referendum, they overwhelmingly rejected a proposal that would have guaranteed each Swiss adult a monthly payment of $2,560 from the Swiss government. Just think: the payment was going to be free, just like Social Security, Medicaid, farm subsidies, food stamps, and education grants are free here in the United States.
Author of Libby mayor recall petitions revealed
LIBBY — A table was set up Tuesday in the Libby City Hall parking lot, where people were invited to be among the first to sign a petition to recall Mayor Doug Roll. Local businesswoman Tammy Brown, who had submitted the petition to the Lincoln County Elections Office for approval of the wording, was on hand to promote the recall drive.

Marriott SpringHill Suites opens in Kalispell
As construction of the fourth phase of Spring Prairie proceeds at a frenzied pace this summer, the 101-room Marriott SpringHill Suites has staked its claim as the first completed project in the 28-acre north Kalispell development.

Glacier Park puts out Goat Haunt welcome mat
Remote station to be staffed this summer
In the northernmost reaches of Glacier National Park lies Goat Haunt, a remote ranger station serving as the U.S. port of entry for travelers to the world’s first International Peace Park.
DAYBOOK, June 26

Carole Cote Romey, 74
Carole Cote Romey passed away peacefully on June 19, 2016, at the age of 74, in Kalispell due to complications of a stroke.
EDITORIAL: First fruits of core area redevelopment
Herberger’s last week announced an ambitious expansion plan that will double the size of its store in Kalispell Center Mall. This is great news for the downtown corridor, and the beginning of some renewed economic vitality for the heart of Kalispell as the city’s core development plan becomes a reality.
COLUMN: Marion animal rescue ranch needs donations
All Mosta Ranch in Marion, a nonprofit livestock rescue/adoption operation and educational center, is bucking up for a blockbuster summer of increased visitors from out of town and youth groups, including local group homes, the Summit Preparatory School and traveling church groups.
Saturday, June 25
Glacier Challenge full results

BASEBALL: Glacier Twins stay undefeated at Ed Gallo
Both A, B teams 4-0 entering semifinals
WHITEFISH — It wasn’t easy for either side, but the Glacier Twins’ A and B teams both won for the fourth straight game at the Ed Gallo Memorial Wood Bat tournament on Saturday at Memorial Park, keeping alive the possibility of an all-Glacier championship game for the second straight year.
Whitefish's Caleb Stolte wins Glacier Challenge
WHITEFISH — Whitefish’s Caleb Stolte used his cycling prowess to overtake Lakeside’s Zach Perrin to win the grueling Glacier Challenge on Saturday.
BRIEFS: Kalispell's Pistorese activated in Iowa; Flathead grad Reilly opens CFL season
CLINTON, Iowa — Kalispell’s Joe Pistorese joined the active roster on the Clinton LumberKings, the Class A Midwest League affiliate of the Seattle Mariners.
LAW ROUNDUP: Woman throws tantrum over low prices

Carole Cote Romey, 74

Lakeside cartoonist
COLUMN: Sit in, shut up and disarm: The Democratic response to terrorism
If you are old enough, you remember how campus after campus in the 1960s had the president’s office “occupied” by students who would rather be making demands for “social justice” than actually attending class. These ruffians were loud, petulant and self-righteous, and they considered their issues more important than civil behavior, the rights of others or common decency.

Lakeside cartoonist a player on the political world stage
From channeling his anger about the 2008 banker bailout into political cartoons, Ben Garrison of Lakeside has become one of the nation’s most popular online political cartoonists, even making waves internationally.

Goat Haunt
A black bear swims past a bull moose in Glacier National Park's Kootenai Lakes near Goat Haunt in this photo from July 2010. (Chris Peterson dile photo/Hungry Horse News)
LETTER: Schools asking for too much money
Kalispell Public Schools seek $54 million for new schools and renovations. The state is building the new bypass, at a cost of $36 million. This bypass includes five bridges/overpasses. If we taxpayers allow District 5 to seek this money, we taxpayers are plain nuts. Glacier High School is more like a playground than a school.
Whitefish grad aims to help women in Zimbabwe
‘SUPERGIRLS OF ZIMBABWE’
After graduating from Whitefish High School in 2014, Claire Watts is planning to make an impact on Zimbabwean women’s sexual health and reproductive rights.
Bible church to screen film on Founding Fathers
As a part of the observance of the nation’s founding, Bible Presbyterian Church at 344 Fifth Ave. W. in Kalispell will show the film “America’s Godly Heritage” on Sunday, June 26, at 2 and at 6 p.m.
Summer calendar, June 25
Summer calendar
DAYBOOK, June 25
Friday, June 24

Flathead's Perrin nabs Gatorade award
Braves standout set two all-class records this spring
Flathead High School’s Jake Perrin was named the Gatorade Montana boys track and field athlete of the year, the company announced Friday.
BASEBALL: Glacier Twins keep rolling at Ed Gallo tournament
Sapa fires shutout, Twins A now 3-0 at host tournament
WHITEFISH — The defending Ed Gallo Memorial Wood Bat tournament champions are in good shape to do it again.

GOLF: Libby's Ryggs Johnston finishes 3rd at Western Junior
ROYAL OAK, Mich. — Libby’s Ryggs Johnston torched the fourth round at the 99th Western Junior Championship, shooting a tournament low 6-under-par 66 to finish 7-under 281 in third place in the oldest national junior golf tournament in the United States on Thursday at Red Run Golf Club in suburban Detroit.
LAW ROUNDUP: 'Hangry' driver not a fan of food lines
An apparently “hangry” individual on East Idaho Street pulled onto a lawn near a fast-food restaurant, peeled out onto the road — leaving tire marks — then drove to a fast-food restaurant across the street, got mad at the line and peeled out again, according to a
State approves CFAC potliner cleanup plan
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality on Friday approved a plan for removing hazardous waste from pot-room buildings at Columbia Falls Aluminum Co.

Enjoy your travels with this effective, drug-free remedy for motion sickness

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Kalispell Fire Department's Jake Hall shows Hannah Iverson where to place her hands while giving CPR during the Junior Police Academy on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A GMC Terrain sits on its side after rolling over during a two-vehicle accident at the intersection of Two Mile Drive and Glenwood Drive on Friday. There were no injuries reported in the accident and the cause of the accident is still under investigation. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Police Academy
OPINION: Muslims are like all other people
I’m extremely disappointed in the letter “Real Muslims won’t really assimilate?” being published by my hometown newspaper. My family still resides in Montana and has lived in Montana for generations.
LETTER: Don't over-do the punishment
Please tell me why Flathead High School has taken the rights of passage away from so many children. Did we not go through the last 12 years with these kids, only to throw their lives away over some garbage? Do they not understand what’s happening here?
OPINION: Legalized Marijuana: What Montana can learn from Colorado
Montana will soon have the opportunity to decide if it wishes to join the ranks of states where the possession and growing of marijuana is legal. A number of pot-related drafts, including the Marijuana Legalization Initiative CI-115, are working their way forward in hopes of finding a place on the Nov. 8 ballot.
LETTER: Why land policy needs to change
Tony Johnson’s response to my letter relative to the issue of state control of public lands illuminates the culture of fear generated from a lack of facts and perspective so wanting in our discussion today. Money is not the issue. Through proper management and use of our natural resources, revenue should not only cover expenses; it should exceed them.
LETTER: Common-sense gun restrictions?
Having grown up as a South Dakota farm boy, I have had a long and affectionate relationship with guns. I have dispatched rats, cottontails, jackrabbits, gophers, pheasants, raccoons, skunks, ducks, geese, deer, elk, and moose. As a rural pastor with six children, wild game became a staple at our dinner table.
EDITORIAL: Mill closures are devastating blow
State Sen. Dee Brown spoke for many of us on Wednesday when, after hearing that Weyerhaeuser was closing two lumber mills in her hometown, she declared, “They have punched Columbia Falls in the gut.”

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First-time homebuyers: You're closer to a down payment than you think
WEEKEND UPDATE: Guitar seminar
Flathead Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center and the Crown Guitar Workshop and Festival invite the public to a free guitar seminar by Carl Dixon, lead singer of the rock band The Guess Who, from noon to 3 p.m. today in the Arts and Technology Building at FVCC.

Smart borrowing tips to help families pay for college
Autism movie showing booked up
Most moms are happy when they see their child is ahead in school. For Renaé Polensky-Gugler, she saw it as one of the many signs her son had autism.
County gets $2.53 million in federal money
Flathead County has received $2.53 million from the federal government under a long-running program that compensates local governments for nontaxable federal land.
Blame game begins over who's responsible for timber's decline
News that Weyerhauser Co. will shutter its recently acquired lumber-mill and corporate operations in Columbia Falls and cut 200 local jobs rattled through the Flathead Valley Wednesday and was predictably followed by vigorous finger-pointing from politicians, interest groups and individuals throughout the state.

Job service, college gear up to deal with fallout from lumber-mill closures
Help is ahead for laid-off workers
Minutes after Columbia Falls Weyerhaeuser Co. employees learned their jobs were at risk on Wednesday, Flathead Job Service staffers met to talk about how to support the soon-to-be jobless.
Apartment dwellers have to wait to return home
Glacier State Apartments residents displaced by a June 17 fire may have to wait at least a couple of weeks before anyone is able to move back in.
LOCAL ROUNDUP: Civil Air Patrol cadets train in Utah
Sixteen Kalispell Civil Air Patrol cadets trained with 144 cadets from Utah June 10-19 at Wendover Air Base in Wendover, Utah.
Births, published June 24
DAYBOOK, June 24
BRIEFS: Stein sinks second hole in one in 11 days
WHITEFISH — Cindy Stein shot her second hole-in-one in 11 days on Wednesday at Whitefish Lake Golf Club.
COLUMN: A tear in my eye, no idea why
I teared up a little on Sunday night and I don’t know why.

LEGION ROUNDUP: Glacier B squeezes victory in Ed Gallo opener
WHITEFISH — Trey Gates bunted in Caleb Meehan on a squeeze play in the seventh inning to lift the Glacier Twins B squad over Havre at Memorial Park on Thursday at the Ed Gallo tournament.
Thursday, June 23

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The lobby of the SpringHill Suites has a dining area for the guest and a large touch screen on the wall for the guest to check on the weather, local events and other information. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A king suite at the recently-opened at SpringHill Suites in Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A meeting room at the SpringHill Suites. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday profile: Rose Till
Rose Till, a health promotion specialist for the Flathead Department of Health, worked for the Center for Disease Control doing Ebola outreach in Guinea, Africa.

Glacier Twins' Ed Gallo tournament
Glacier Twins B outfielder Caleb Meehan celebrates after scoring the winning run on a walk-off bunt to beat the Havre Northstars 4-3 in their opening game of the Ed Gallo Memorial on Thursday, June 23, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
LAW ROUNDUP: Crossing the threshold crosses the line for resident
A Sixth Street West resident was disconcerted by a shirtless and shoeless man who just waltzed into his house. The resident “shoo-ed” the man out and although he didn’t want to press charges, he wanted

Plum Creek, 2010
Plum Creek's Columbia Falls operations, as seen from this 2010 aerial photo.

Plum Creek aerial

Turn your empty attic into new living space with 3 smart moves
Pair plead not guilty in death of nephew
A husband and wife pleaded not guilty Wednesday to charges related to the murder of their nephew, whose decaying body was found early this month in a camper in Arlee.
High school speakers compete at national level
A dozen Flathead Valley students went up against some of the country’s top competitors last week at the 2016 National Speech and Debate Tournament in Salt Lake City.

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Classic craft gather for Woody Weekend
The Big Sky Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society will present Whitefish Woody Weekend V Friday through Sunday.
Col. Falls earns Graduation Matters honor
Graduation Matters Columbia Falls was among six school communities or foundations honored by the Office of Public Instruction during the Impact Awards ceremony in Bozeman.

3 tips for keeping natural stone countertops beautiful
COLUMN: Highs, lows of fishing life
In my last column, I talked about some awesome fishing and catching that had been taking place across the valley. Sure, when the fish are “on the chew” as I like to say, everyone can look like a hero, without a whole lot of effort in many cases.
OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Poster historian to give talk in Glacier
The Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center at Glacier National Park is hosting a brown-bag luncheon presentation Tuesday by artist and National Park poster historian Doug Leen.
DAYBOOK, June 23

Summer sizzles with Thursday!Fest: Kalispell's live music scene in full swing
Live music is heating up in Kalispell, just in time for summer.

Denver Ray Heffington, 31
Denver Ray Heffington, 31, of Hungry Horse, left us on June 18, 2016 “to go home to our Lord Jesus Christ. He was met there by his three grandfathers, Jim Stockton, Mike Carter, and Willis Carpenter, who will go fish the Jordan river together.”

Lillian May Hawkins, 90
“Heaven called another angel home” on June 17, 2016. Lillian May Hawkins, 90, passed peacefully of natural causes “in the arms of her Lord and Savior” amongst family in Helena. God comes to us first and foremost through a mother’s love.
This Week in the Flathead | June 23-29
Wednesday, June 22

BASEBALL: Record field set for Ed Gallo Memorial tournament
27th annual Glacier Twins tournament begins Thursday
WHITEFISH — If the familiar crack of a wood bat on the ball is the quintessential sound of baseball, it’s going to sound like baseball morning, noon and night around Memorial Park this weekend.
TERRY COLUMN: NFL superstars spread smiles at Play 60
When the band of former NFL stars and Hall of Famers rolled through Glacier High School last weekend it lit up the faces of hundreds of kids.
BASEBALL: Mission Valley Mariners earn walk-off win
Mariners split DH; Libby Loggers fall at home
POLSON — Walter Wood and Bransen Krebs homered, and Tyler Kelsch doubled and scored the winning run in the bottom of the eighth inning as the Mission Valley Mariners beat the Bitterroot Red Sox 4-3 in the first game of a doubleheader on Wednesday night.

Denver Ray Heffington, 31

Lillian May Hawkins, 90
It's the latest blow in timber's long decline
Weyerhaeuser’s announcement that it will close its lumber mill and plywood plant in Columbia Falls comes after decades of decline for Montana’s once-thriving timber industry.
Col. Falls mill workers absorb bombshell news
An hour and a half after finding out they may not have jobs in 60 days, some Weyerhaeuser Co. employees gathered in shock inside the North Valley Eagles Aerie bar Wednesday afternoon.
LAW ROUNDUP: Pantsless man high-tails it in heels
A man described as having a shaved head and possibly wearing a dress, or long shirt, no pants and no underwear allegedly put on a pair of black high heels and stole them from a North Main Street business, according to

Thursday!Fest
Marshall Catch performs at Thursday!Fest in 2015. The band returns to the lineup in 2016.

Drive away distractions to protect teens behind the wheel

Log yard

200 jobs disappearing as C. Falls mills to close
Weyerhaeuser Co. will permanently close its lumber and plywood mills in Columbia Falls by late August or early September, eliminating 100 jobs, the company announced late Wednesday afternoon.

Video games to big screen reboots, '90s nostalgia rules pop culture this summer

Whitefish man gets top military award
Capt. Peter Akey of Whitefish, a member of the Montana National Guard 1-163rd Combined Arms Battalion, was one of six National Guard officers from across the nation who received the General Douglas MacArthur Leadership Award in Washington, D.C., on June 1.

Upcycle your summer treasures with these 5 DIY tips
Free HIV testing offered this week
Flathead City-County Health Department officials reported two new cases of HIV within two weeks — a slight spike compared to the year before when just one case was reported.
Group hatches state Alzheimer's plan
More awareness, research and resources needed in Montana
After two years of work, a Montana group has created a plan to counter what it calls the nation’s next epidemic: Alzheimer’s disease.
Closure talk brings protests from backers of Kalispell Airport
Despite a relatively run-of-the-mill agenda, Monday night’s Kalispell City Council meeting elicited strong opinions from more than a dozen residents and stakeholders protesting the possible closure of Kalispell City Airport.
Council Diary
A summary of city council actions across the Flathead Valley on Monday night:
Whitefish Trail gets $150,000 grant for two new trailheads
The Whitefish Trail got a $150,000 boost after the popular community trail system was awarded a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant last week.
CHS aims for 2018 relocation
Agriculture supplier CHS could become the inaugural tenant of the city’s Glacier Rail Park by early summer 2018.
LOCAL ROUNDUP: Car show, street party planned Saturday
The Big Shindig, a combination car show and street party, is from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, June 25, in downtown Kalispell.
Petition to recall Libby mayor approved for petition gathering
LIBBY — The Lincoln County Attorney’s Office on Friday validated the third version of a draft petition to recall Libby Mayor Doug Roll.

Hugh Edward Roberts, 94
After 94 years of a full and very interesting life, Hugh Roberts passed away quietly at The Springs in Whitefish, with his dear friends by his side.

Ray Norby, 68
Ray Norby, 68, passed away on Friday, June 17, 2016, after a short battle with cancer.

Chuck Goligoski, 84
Chuck Goligoski passed away on Friday, June 17, 2016, with his two daughters and son by his side. “He has now entered into heaven’s gates and joined his beloved Mary Pat. What a wonderful reunion that must have been!”
Tuesday, June 21
Glacier's Jonny Sapa no-hits Mariners

GOLF: Bigfork's Joseph Potkonjak finishes 2nd at State Junior Championships
Carroll College commit 2-over-par for tournament, one stroke behind winner
BILLINGS — Billings’ Caleb Trost shot a 2-under-par 70 in the final round to overtake Bigfork graduate Joseph Potkonjak and win the Montana State Golf Association’s State Junior tournament Tuesday afternoon at Briarwood Golf Club.
BASEBALL: Tyler Murphy's no-hitter leads Glacier Twins to sweep
Twins A post pair of lopsided wins; Lakers AA swept in Helena
EUREKA — Just last week, Tyler Murphy sat behind home plate and caught every pitch of the Glacier Twins’ first no-hitter of the season.
LAW ROUNDUP: Driver snubbed in shrub complaint
A driver on Second Avenue West in Columbia Falls was not pleased by landscaping that blocked the view and claimed he or she was almost hit twice trying to pull into the intersection at Ninth Street.
MSGA State Juniors leaderboard

Hugh Edward Roberts, 94

Ray Norby, 68

Chuck Goligoski, 84

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The Montana Tap House in Whitefish has 58 taps. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Paul Carpenter tries an IPA at the Montana Tap House on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Eric Scheele laughs with a friend while enjoying a drink at the Montana Tap House in Whitefish on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Alan Reisch and Michelle Reisch are parnters with Alan's dad Dale of the Montana Tap House. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Bryan Sinram fills a beer for a customer at the Montana Tap House on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Todd Coats carves an osprey at his shop in Woods Bay on Tuesday, June 21, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Todd Coats stands in front of the sculpture of three bears he carved with a chainsaw at his place in Woods Bay. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The sun sets on the peaks of Glacier National Park to end the longest day of the year on Monday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Mall anchor Herberger's to double its size
Kalispell Center Mall is set for a major expansion with Herberger’s planning to double the size of its store.
Red Cross opens help center for Kalispell fire victims
Red Cross has opened a respite center today through 3 p.m. for Glacier State Apartments residents displaced by a June 17 fire.
LETTER: Mixed signals
OK, so I am confused again! The president is speaking about gun violence and the terrible effects it is having and escalation surely to happen without immediate action! I get it ... BUT Obama has released killers, rapists, drug dealers and terrorists, and has OK’d gun deals with Mexican drug lords! So how can he preach against violence when he has contributed to increasing gun violence?
LETTER: How do you stop shootings without ban?
I carried an M-16 for a year in Vietnam, and upon returning home a high school friend wanted to know if I had smuggled home a selector switch, which apparently can be installed in an AR-15 for full automatic capability. If this is true, do you suppose there is a black market for this device and are there such weapons available? Machine guns are still illegal, aren’t they?

Golden rules for an easy summer move
LETTER: Will governor prevent influx of refugees?
Wake up, Montana!
LETTER: Gianforte is best for governor
My wife and I have lived in Montana for 16 years. We have been a small business owner in a small town and today work for myself and family. I have spent the last 30 years in industrial automation and most recently with robotics. I can tell you that industrial automation is the fastest growing segment. Our great state has many talented and dedicated people who can have great paying jobs if we invest in our education.

7 simple, inspired ways to infuse summer fare with Mediterranean flavor

Herberger's

5 Tips for Managing Diabetes With the Help of Your "Diabetes Dream Team"
Daybook, June 22

Couple preserves piece of local ag heritage
Out past the hummingbirds and house finches lingering near the feeders on the porch, Clifford and Shirley Brenneman look east through their kitchen window at emerald green fields of grain rolling toward the wall of mountains rising from the valley floor.
Was it poison that killed the cat?
The
Monday, June 20

LEGION ROUNDUP: Kalispell Lakers A hold off late rally from Libby Loggers
The Kalispell Lakers A built up a big lead and held off a strong rally from Libby on Monday, winning 6-5 at Griffin Field in a Western A American Legion baseball game.
Grant boosts Music and Memory Program
Immanuel Lutheran Communities has received a $6,000 grant from the William and Blanche Hetzel Foundation to launch a therapeutic Music and Memory Program for its residents.

Steven Paul Rosse, 55
On Saturday, June 4, 2016, Steven Paul Rosse passed in Renton, Washington, at the age of 55 years.

Bonnie Rae Jones, 60
LaVerna Margaret McFadden, 97
LaVerna Margaret McFadden, 97, “went to be with her Lord” on Tuesday, March 29, 2016, in her Lakeside home with her youngest daughter by her side.

Woman pleads not guilty to child-porn charge
In Flathead District Court on Thursday, a Kalispell woman denied editing pornographic photographs of children.
Alberta man guilty of murder attempt
An Alberta man was convicted Thursday of attempting to murder two people from Eureka.
Driver dies in Hungry Horse crash
A Hungry Horse driver died Saturday of blunt force trauma after striking another vehicle from behind shortly after midnight on U.S. 2 in Hungry Horse.

Apartment dwellers scramble to find lodging after fire
While apartment residents scramble to find places to live, the victim of a fatal fire Friday in Kalispell has been identified.

Fatal fire

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Mission Valley shortstop Jacob Harrod scoops up a ground ball in a 2-1 loss to the Glacier Twins in Whitefish on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Mission Valley second baseman Anthony Jones throws to first base in an attempt of a double play against the Glacier Twins. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A chicken flies from Sophia Porters hand and over her sister Lindy's head at their home in Kalispell on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Sophia Porter holds a chicken as her sister Lindy carries a chicken in their backyard of their Kalispell home on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Sophia Porter

5 top trends in container gardening

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Libby health center awarded $350,000
Lincoln County Community Health Center will receive $350,000 from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services as part of a national effort to increase dental health services in rural communities.
Kalispell City Council to vote on budget
The Kalispell City Council will vote on whether to begin operating off of its preliminary 2017 budget at tonight’s meeting, in order to fund the city’s operations until it adopts a final budget on Aug. 15.

5 ways Americans unite to help one another

Emerging trends in nursing instruction signal shifts across education

Alano Club of Kalispell expands
The irony of turning a bar into a gathering place for 12-step recovery programs is not lost on the leaders of the nonprofit Alano Club of Kalispell.

Donors pitch in to provide South Campus patio
An outdoor patio is ready to go at Flathead County’s new South Campus Building, thanks in large part to Dave Reynolds of Alpine Sprinklers and Landscape.
Whitefish budget hearing tonight
Whitefish residents can comment on the proposed city budget tonight at a public hearing before the Whitefish City Council.
Sunday, June 19
Local suspect convicted in Oregon
A former Flathead County man is set to change his plea on a charge of felony sexual assault.
Man allegedly makes threats to banker
A local banker told the
LETTER: Gianforte will help economy
I wanted to take a moment to congratulate Greg Gianforte on a stellar performance.

Couple plead not guilty in theft case
An Oregon couple have denied stealing more than $30,000 in items from a home on Prairie View Road in Kalispell and taking the loot back to Oregon.
LETTER: Feds need to keep bison range
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are proposing legislation that would give them ownership of the National Bison Range.
LETTER: Bottling plant too risky for others' water rights
Water is our life blood — to be shared by all of us.
LETTER: Far-right begins propaganda to promote transfer of public lands
The onslaught of the far-right propaganda machine relative to the transfer of federal lands to state control has started in earnest. I am specifically referring to the far-right letter to the editor by Mark Agather in the April 24 Inter Lake.

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Former tennis couple in the barbecue business
FROM RACKETS TO RIBS
Running a barbecue restaurant is far removed from the tennis academy where Alex and Danni Weinstein met in high school, but the competitive drive that brought them together 14 years ago is in full force with their business venture.
OPINION: Zinke's vote on public lands bill contrary to the Montana ethos
Public lands debate
We Montanans are a diverse bunch, but we stand united on a few key issues.

Inter Lake advertising designer shines at state awards banquet
BETTER NEWSPAPER CONTEST
Daily Inter Lake ad designer Brenda Ritter was a top winner at the Montana Newspaper Association’s annual Better Newspaper Contest banquet on June 11.
OPINION: Congressman explains two votes he made last week
‘I never have, and never will, sell your public lands’ Public lands debate
Earlier this week, the Natural Resources Committee voted on a series of bills, two of which dealt with public lands. The first piece was an outright transfer of federal lands. The second piece dealt with establishing a land management pilot program.

Dad's carvings are unusual keepsakes
Some people have a favorite fishing rod or gun by which to remember their father. Terri Adams and Rick Schmidt have totem poles.

Lakeside club embarks on unique fundraiser
A FLAIR FOR CHAIRS
Chairs of all sizes and shapes are finding new life in Lakeside.

Google Maps recommends long way to Polebridge
As it turns out, the North Fork Road isn’t the only scenic route to Polebridge.
COLUMN: Water-ski feat stands test of time
Among the interesting things about working at a newspaper that’s been around since 1889 are the requests we get to find old stories. Our archives are a treasure trove of Flathead Valley history, and most of the time we’re able to track down what readers need through an archive search.
Seniors who were fraud victims get restitution
Six western Montanans who were scammed out of $500,000 will see partial restitution from the state.

Ronald Victor Hattel, 84
Ronald Victor Hattel, 84, was born April 6, 1932.

Anthony Michlig, 83
Anthony Michlig, 83, passed away Monday, June 13, 2016, in Kalispell.
EDITORIAL: Study school proposals carefully
At first blush, it looks like a big number: $54 million.
DAYBOOK, June 19

Catherine Agnes Carter Bell, 86
Catherine Agnes Carter Bell “joined her husband” of 60 years after a peaceful passing on May 18, 2016.
Saturday, June 18

Glacier's Annie Hill wins Brooks PR mile
Flathead's Perrin runs sub-9 two mile at elite prep track meet
RENTON, Wash. — Glacier sophomore Annie Hill ran a personal best time of 4 minutes, 41.52 seconds to obliterate the field in the girls mile run at the Brooks PR Invitational.
BASEBALL ROUNDUP: Glacier Twins A suffer pair of setbacks in Belgrade
BELGRADE — Alex McSmith broke a 5-5 tie in the bottom of the fourth inning and the Boise Gems pulled away for a 9-5 win Saturday night at the Boys of Summer Invitational.
FOOTBALL: Montana routs North Dakota in Badlands Bowl, 36-7
Whitefish’s May throws for three TDs in dominant win
DICKINSON, N.D. — The Montana team dominated from start to finish in a thorough beat down of neighboring North Dakota.

Perrin at Brooks PR
Flathead senior Jake Perrin keeps pace with the pack in the boys two mile run at the Brooks PR Invitational on Saturday in Renton, Wash. Perrin finished 12th in 8:58.09, the fastest time in Montana history. (Travis Miller photo)

Annie Hill wins Brooks PR mile
Kalispell's Annie Hill runs down the final stretch of the girls mile run at the Brooks PR Invitational on Saturday in Renton, Wash. Hill ran 4:41.52 to win the elite prep race by more than three seconds. (Image of Sport photo)
LAW ROUNDUP: Baby ducks get another day to play

Fatal fire also displaces apartment residents
An explosion and fire Friday night left one person dead and 34 individuals displaced from Glacier State Apartments in Kalispell.

Car leads police on 20-mile chase on U.S. 93
Spike strips and a pit maneuver finally ended a high speed chase that started south of Kalispell and ended in Whitefish.

Former tennis couple in the barbecue business
Danni Weinstein drips barbecue sauce over a pulled pork and brisket sandwich at Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Tell us about valley pioneers
Flathead Pioneers
Did a family member homestead in the Flathead Valley? Were your ancestors loggers?

Inter Lake advertising designer shines at state awards banquet

Google Maps recommends long way to Polebridge
The Google Maps route to Polebridge takes travelers over the Whitefish Divide instead of up the North Fork Road.
Open houses ahead on forest plan
The Flathead National Forest will hold open houses next week on its recently released draft forest plan.

Jerry Patterson, 68
Jerry Patterson, 68, passed away Friday, June 13, 2016, while hospitalized in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
COLUMN: After Orlando, isn't it time to fight back?
Do you get it yet? ISIS, al-Qaida, and millions of Islamic extremists have declared war on the United States and Western civilization. It’s not an accident that people who believe in the Quran keep picking up guns, bombs and machetes and attacking people who don’t believe in the Quran.

Anthony Michlig, 83

Catherine Agnes Carter Bell, 86

Ronald Victor Hattel, 84
OPINION: The misleading rhetoric behind the 'equal pay' movement

Play 60 Challenge

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Jerry Rice lifts four-year-old Jackson Pelc in the air to shoot a basket during the Play 60 Challenge at Glacier High School on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jerry Rice hugs Odin Gilley after Gilley got hit with a ball during a game of dodgeball at the Play 60 Challenge on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ronnie Lott gives Drake Larkey a high-five after Larkey made a basket during the Play 60 Challenge. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Roger Craig joins in a tug-of-war during the Play 60 Challenge at Glacier High School on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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West Valley school leader honored
Cal Ketchum named superintendent of year
West Valley School District Superintendent Cal Ketchum has been named superintendent of the year by the Northwest Montana Association of School Superintendents.

Trig-Star standout: speed, accuracy add up to state win
Jelisa Holmquist, 16, achieved a perfect score in less time than 603 of her peers from 25 schools around the state taking the trigonometry test called Trig-Star.
Land mixup could be cheaper than predicted
Cost may be $6 million rather than $14 million
Montana State Parks got some welcome good news this week as the agency struggles to address a potentially costly problem stemming from how part of West Shore State Park was acquired 50 years ago.
RELIGION ROUNDUP: Risen Christ announces summer Mass times
Risen Christ Catholic Parish at 65 W. Evergreen Drive will hold summer Mass at 6:30 p.m. every Sunday, June 19 through Aug. 28. Local parishioners and travelers are welcome to attend. For more information, call 406-752-4219 or visit www.diocesehelena.org/parishes/risen-christ-kalispell.
Friday, June 17

Liberty Street fire

Explosion, possible fire reported at Liberty Street apartment
A possible explosion and fire was reported upstairs at 600 Liberty Street in Kalispell just before 8 on Friday night.

Driver survives when truck drops 250 feet
Essex man found two hours after crash wreckage discovered
A 26-year-old man from the Essex area was airlifted Friday to Kalispell Regional Medical Center after his truck went off U.S. 2 near mile marker 156 near West Glacier.

West Valley school leader honored

Glacier's Sun Road opens over Logan Pass
Glacier National Park opened the full 50-mile length of Going-to-the-Sun Road to vehicle traffic Thursday night, although the Logan Pass Visitor Center’s planned opening today will be delayed.

Three charged with helping out

Trig-Star standout: speed, accuracy add up to state win
Flathead High School student Jelisa Holmquist won the Montana Trig-Star contest. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Duff named Whitefish girls coach

Whitefish basketball coach Sean Duff
Former Whitefish girls basketball coach Sean Duff welcomes his team back to the bench in this file photo. Duff, who was not rehired as the girls coach following the 2012-13 season, will be named the new Bulldogs boys basketball coach. (Matt Baldwin/Whitefish Pilot)

BASKETBALL: Sean Duff to be named Whitefish boys coach
Ex-Bullldogs girls coach will take over boys program
WHITEFISH — Sean Duff is poised to return to the bench as a Whitefish High School basketball coach, this time leading the boys varsity team.

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Jeff and Maryanne Milos of Massachusetts take a break from hiking the Hidden Lake Trail to enjoy the scenery above Logan Pass at Glacier National Park on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jane and Desmond Hunter sled down the Hidden Lake Trail. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Going-to-the-Sun Road opening

Logan Pass visitors

Robert Matthew Wittal

Melisa Ann Crone

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Jane Hunter of Florida sleds down the Hidden Lake Trail at Logan Pass on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A group sits atop a red bus in the Logan Pass Parking Lot on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Mike Jacobsen of Phoenix, Ariz., illegally walks his dog Jack at the Oberlin Bend Overlook on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Firefighters inspect the Logan Pass Visitor Center on Friday, after staff arriving in the morning discovered a battery acid leak in the building's power system. Park spokeswoman Margie Steigerwald said Friday afternoon that earlier plans to open the Logan Pass Visitor Center on Saturday will be delayed. While park rangers had been restricting visitors to the parking lot on Friday, she said there wa no official trail closure was in effect for Hidden Lake Trail. "It's probably related to the issue inside the building, where out of an abundance of caution they're clearing a perimeter around the building," Steigerwald said.

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Jerry Gamble, of Las Vegas, Nev., looks at a helicopter as he takes pictures on the Going-to-the-Sun Road just east of Logan Pass on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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David Vincent Toman

Christopher Michael Hansen
Christopher Michael Hansen
BASEBALL ROUNDUP: Glacier Twins beat Vipers; Lakers A swept in DH
BELGRADE — Max Smyley singled in the last of five runs in the bottom of the seventh inning to lead the Glacier Twins to an 8-7 victory over Eagle (Idaho) at the Boys of Summer Invitational on Friday morning.

5 reasons to visit the African American Festival in Baltimore this summer
OPINION: Accident victim's father thankful for all who helped
I would like to thank Katheryn Houghton for reporting the story on my son and the Daily Inter Lake’s employee Brandon Floyd regarding his accident this past Monday night. Brandon has really enjoyed his position at the Inter Lake and hopes to return after what will be a lengthy healing process.
LETTER: Don't just elect a president because she's a woman
Ask the correct question for the upcoming presidential election: “What if Trump is not elected?”

Does your door lock protect against this break-in method?
LETTER: 'I'm with Madame X'
America’s 2016 presidential election seems to be all about “X” or “Y.” “X” is the female chromosome and “Y” is the male chromosome. Yet each of us is made up of both. The rest of the world seems to have figured this out and accepted it years and years ago. There have been women in positions of leading nations all over the world for years. And often in nations we have smugly looked down upon. What is our problem?
LETTER: Thanks for vote on Falun Gong resolution
On June 13, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed House Resolution 343, which expresses concern regarding persistent and credible reports of systematic, state-sanctioned organ harvesting from non-consenting prisoners of conscience in the People’s Republic of China, including from large numbers of Falun Gong practitioners and members of other religious and ethnic minority groups, including Christians, Tibetans and Uighurs.
LETTER: Life-after-death is just a theory
There are often letters to the editor which either imply or directly state that there is “life-after-death.” This is a basic concept in many religions and is commonly used to recruit people to join. Offering eternal life is a powerful “carrot-on-a-stick” because of the extreme fear which humans have of death. It is important to recognize that life-after-death is a “theory” which has not been shown to have validity.
EDITORIAL: Weyerhaeuser on the right path
A few months ago, local residents breathed a sigh of relief when timber giant Weyerhaeuser announced it planned to retain the open-access policies to the company’s Montana timberlands that were followed by its predecessor, Plum Creek.

Lawn technology gifts for Mom and Dad
Man denies shooting at delivery driver
A man denied in Flathead District Court on Thursday that he shot at a newspaper delivery driver at the end of May.

Olympian joins local officials in pushing gun safety
Appearing alongside local shooting sports Olympic gold medalist Jamie Corkish, Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson drew on his own gun experience to highlight the importance of firearm safety at a Project ChildSafe event in Kalispell Wednesday.
LOCAL ROUNDUP: Enjoy a summer evening at Bibler Gardens
Tickets are now on sale for the Bibler Home and Gardens Splendid Summer Evenings and Garden Party.
Murder suspect may have destroyed evidence
Authorities believe a man accused of stabbing 35-year-old Wade Allen Rautio to death last month also destroyed evidence that linked him to the crime.

Slain tot's mom pleads not guilty
An Evergreen mother denied on Thursday morning that she should be held responsible for the murder of her 2-year-old son in February 2015.
DAYBOOK, June 17

The risk of re-infection: What the prescription anti-fungals won't do
Edward Sundberg, 59
Edward Sundberg, 59, passed from natural causes and is “taking his longest ride; he left on June 4, 2016.”
Thursday, June 16

NFL Play 60 event
Chase Reynolds of the St. Louis Rams plays duck, duck, goose at the Winter Classic Play 60 Challenge at Whitefish High School in this file photo. For the Children, a local nonprofit, will host this year's NFL Play 60 event at Glacier High School on Saturday, June 18.

Hall of Famers to attend NFL Play 60 event Saturday at Glacier H.S.
When festivities kick off at the Play 60 Challenge on Saturday, there will be winners of 14 Super Bowl rings, two NFL Hall of Famers and a host of local dignitaries will be out to spread the message of a healthy lifestyle to kids of all ages.
COLUMN: Time for message of pride to spread
The Tampa Bay Rays game is sold out tonight.
BASEBALL: Glacier Twins trounce Cody; Mission Valley blanks Missoula
BELGRADE — The Glacier Twins found their rhythm in the fourth inning on Thursday at the Boys of Summer Legion baseball tournament, scoring 10 runs in the frame to crush Cody, Wyoming 17-1.
SPORTS BRIEFS: Glacier to host football scrimmage today
Fans can get their first look at the 2016 Glacier football team today when the Wolfpack hosts a scrimmage open to the public this afternoon at Glacier High School.
Sun Road to open to Logan Pass Friday morning
Glacier National Park officials announced late Thursday that Going-to-the-Sun Road is likely to be open over Logan Pass by this morning.
LAW ROUNDUP: Officers potty-train impolite men

Olympian joins local officials in pushing gun safety
Kalispell Police Department's Doug Overman displays how to safely store a rifle and use a cable lock during the Project ChildSafe gun safety seminar at the Red Lion Inn in Kalispell on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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5 ways to earn extra money on the side

Deer in Kalispell
Two deer munch on an open field of greens on Thursday afternoon, June 16, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Totem Poles
Detail of a totem pole by Raymond Schmidt. This one is on display at the home of his son Rick Schmidt in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Women deny locking children in basement
Two women have denied locking three children in a basement earlier this year.

Chair-ish Our Community
From left: Deb Newell, Kathy Demler, Noelle Birkey and Heather Dennis add puzzle pieces to the seat of a chair they are refurbishing as part of the Lakeside Community Club project “Chair-ish Our Community” on Wednesday, June 15, east of Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Amy Newman appeared in court
Amy Newman appeared in court on three charges of criminal endangerment in Flathead District Court on Thursday, June 16, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Crystal Mears appeared in court
Crystal Mears appeared in court on three charges of criminal endangerment in Flathead District Court on Thursday, June 16, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Baltimore Carper appeared in court
Baltimore Carper appeared in court on charges out of Flathead County for allegedly stealing more than 30,000 dollars worth of goods from a home in the Valley. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Amanda Carper appeared in court
Amanda Carper appeared in court on charges out of Flathead County for allegedly stealing more than 30,000 dollars worth of goods from a home in the Valley. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Brittany Stout in court

Mears and Newman

Trig Star
Flathead High School student Jelisa Holmquist won the Montana Trig-Star contest. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Joshua Sewell, 12, holds the lake trout he caught as him and Troy Dixon, 12 walk off of the boat at Hidden Harbor on Flathead Lake during the 21st annual Fishing Without Barriers Day. The event provides an opportunity for people with disabilites to fish on a charter boat on Flathead Lake. About 40 people participated in the event on 15 charter boats. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Amey Ginther of Polson casts from a dock during the Fishing Without Barriers Day sponsored by the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks at Hidden Harbor on Flathead Lake. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ben Lindquist helps Jeffrey Sangen reel in a plastic fish during the Fishing Without Barriers Day on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Father of five fights bladder cancer with immunotherapy
LETTER: Just which water compact are we talking about?
Farmers and Ranchers for Montana (F.A.R.M.), an organization formed and funded, at least partially by dark money, is at again. Have you heard or seen the recent media blitz across our great state touting the high praise of the Montana Water Compact?

Separating fact from fiction: A closer look at American hardwoods
LETTER: How hard is it to NOT force your opinions on students?
In Joan Gates’ June 12 guest opinion she stated that as a teacher, “The conservative nature of this area has always felt a bit oppressive, so understandably, one of the more difficult parts of the teaching job has been to NOT force my political and religious views and opinions upon the captive audience I entertained each day …”

Takara Juntunen

New home improvement trends that strengthen your property investment
LETTER: Megalomaniac with bad hair? Name that world leader ...
A thin-skinned blowhard of a reactionary megalomaniac with bad hair and an itchy nuclear trigger finger who delights in putting people down. Sound familiar? Actually, I’m referring to North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un. But come to think of it, it must be hard for Republicans to keep a straight face these days.

Woman pleads not guilty in son's death
An Evergreen mother denied on Thursday morning that she should be held responsible for the murder of her 2-year-old son in February 2015.
LETTER: Climate change hoax equals energy collapse
Very few thinking people still believe the hoax of human-caused global warming/climate change. But unfortunately many don’t relate a lock-up of energy resources to the serious threat of total economic collapse.
EDITORIAL: Absent students and missing values
If you don’t show up, you can’t learn, and more and more young people just aren’t showing up for school.

Utility boss longest-serving city worker: Acton retires Friday after 42-year career
When Greg Acton got out of the U.S. Army in 1974, there weren’t a lot of career options for an atomic demolitions munitions technician with top-secret government clearance.
Summer season opens on Big Mountain
Whitefish Mountain Resort’s summer season kicks off Saturday and will include a new trail-riding zone in its bike park along with the Aerial Adventure Park, zip-line tours and other seasonal attractions.
50 Years for FVCC: College seeking items from early years
Flathead Valley Community College is preparing to celebrate its 50th anniversary.
OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Three mussel-sniffing dogs now on the job
Today and Friday, come meet the newest members of the Flathead Basin Commission’s aquatic invasive species detection team: mussel-sniffing dogs.

How to throw a seamless summer gathering
COLUMN: Release big fish to be caught again
Are you ready to catch a big fish? A more important question is what are you going to do with a really big fish when it is at the boat and ready to land? Are you going to keep the fish for a treasured wall mount, eat the fish or release the fish to swim away?
Cyclist recalls harrowing Kalispell crash
The last thing Brandon Floyd can remember about his bike accident Monday night is seeing a truck jerk. Then everything comes in flashes.

Classic sailboat returns to the water
The Flathead Lake Lodge shipwright paced the sailboat’s familiar 51-foot deck to check if it was taking on water.

Bruce A. Measure, 64
Bruce A. Measure, 64, died peacefully early Monday morning, June 6, 2016, with family by his side in Kalispell. He was a loving father, grandfather, husband, partner, brother, uncle and friend. Bruce also was a skilled attorney and speaker, an expert on energy and water resources, a brilliant thinker and an avid politician.
DAYBOOK, June 16

Carl Dixon to present free performance, seminar at FVCC
On Friday, June 24, from noon to 3 p.m, the Crown Guitar Workshop and the Continuing Education Center of the Flathead Valley Community College will present a seminar featuring Carl Dixon, published author, speaker, and Canadian rock legend and lead singer/guitarist of The Guess Who. The afternoon will also include performances and discussion with some of the Crown’s past scholarship recipients on the power of music in their lives. Dixon will be performing and sharing his life journey. He remains one of Canada’s top singers and musicians, known from such bands including Coney Hatch, The Guess Who and April Wine.
This Week in the Flathead | June 16-22

Event to benefit Crown of the Continent Guitar scholarships
The Crown Affaire
A grand party is planned for Thursday, June 23, at the Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation’s Crown Affaire, a casually elegant event raising money to support guitar education and scholarships for the local Flathead Valley community.

Benjamin Gus Denna, 39
Benjamin Gus Denna died June 12, 2016.
Wednesday, June 15

BASEBALL: Glacier Twins' Jonny Sapa no-hits Mariners
Righty’s brilliant 1st start keys Glacier in sweep of Mission Valley
WHITEFISH — Jonny Sapa was forced to wait more than a month to make his first start of the season after spraining his ankle in a spring practice.
TERRY COLUMN: A grueling course, a worthy cause
On the longest day of the year, Jess Roper plans on golfing for nearly every minute the sun is up. And a few beyond that.

Glacier Twins pitcher Jonny Sapa
Glacier Twins pitcher Jonny Sapa follows through on a delivery during the Twins' 2-1 win against the Mission Valley Mariners at Memorial Park on Wednesday, June 15, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake, File)

Benjamin Gus Denna, 39

Bruce A. Measure, 64

Classic sailboat returns to the water
Shipwright Jon Derry makes his way across the deck of the Questa on Wednesday, June 15, at the Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork as the boat is returned to Flathead Lake after seven years of restoration work. The white hose on the lower left of the photo is the bilge pump. Captain Scott Plumb said the boat would leak when first put in the water because it takes a bit of time for the boards to swell and seal. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Acton retires Friday after 42-year career
Utility Operation Supervisor Greg Acton at the Whitefish Water Treatment Plant on Monday, June 13. Acton will be retiring after 42 years on Friday. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Kalispell schools to seek $54 million
Kalispell Public Schools will seek voter approval of elementary and high school 20-year bond issues in a mail-ballot election Oct. 11.

Carl Dixon

The Crown Affaire
Jessica Lynn and her band.

Suspect in court

Arraignment delayed for Arlee murder suspect
An Idaho man accused of killing his nephew, stuffing the corpse in a shower and living in an Arlee trailer with the body inside for months appeared in court on Wednesday in Polson.

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Alpine Landscaping's Justin Thomas, left bottom row, Austin Gimnich, Jerry Abell, Dave Reynolds and Bruce Altenberg donated labor and materials to build the patio. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

South Campus
Justin Thomas places bricks for a patio on the west side of the South Campus Building in Kalispell on Wednesday.
Fourth suspect arrested in murder case
Three more Kalispell residents have been arrested in connection to the murder of Kalispell resident Wade Allen Rautio, with still more arrests expected as the case continues to unfold.

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Kalispell Police Department's Doug Overman displaces how to safely store a rifle and use a cable lock during the Project ChildSafe gun safety seminar at the Red Lion Inn in Kalispell on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A cable lock is secured around a shotgun during the Project ChildSafe seminar at the Red Lion Inn on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead View
View of Flathead Lake from beneath a weeping willow tree at the Flathead Lake Lodge on Wednesday morning, June 15, in Bigfork. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Big Sky Weekend returns to Kalispell
Lindsey Rosenberry dancing with Peter Flahiff of Santa Ana, California at the 2015 Big Sky Weekend in June, 2015, in Kalispell. Registration for the 2016 event opens Friday, June 18, at 5:30 p.m. at the Guest House Ballroom. A Basics Bootcamp lesson will go from 6 to 7 p.m. followed by the Main Dance. The basic lesson is $15 for people not signed up for the entire weekend. Main Dances will be held Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights from 8:30 to 11:30 p.m. at the Guest House Ballroom and are $15 to attend for non-camp members. (Brand Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Launch of the newly renovated Questa
Shipwright Jon Derry helps with the mast rigging as the crew from Harmon Crane begins to lift the mast on Wednesday, June 15, at the Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Traveling on a budget: 5 ways to save money on vacation

Spices and spirits make summer sips shine

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Alex Weinstein gets pork shoulder roast and beef briskets ready for the smoker at Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Danni Weinstein drips barbecue sauce over a pulled pork and brisket sandwich at Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Alex and Danni Weinstein are the owners and operators of the Dickey's Barbecue Pit in Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

U.S. report: Eggs essential to top 3 healthy diets, but some eggs are better than others
Forest proposes salvage logging
Project planned in Trail Creek Fire area
The Flathead National Forest on Wednesday released its environmental assessment Wednesday for a proposed salvage logging project in a portion of the Spotted Bear Ranger District burned by last year’s 22,195-acre Trail Creek Fire.
Turn lane proposed at Lake Five junction along U.S. 2
The Montana Department of Transportation is proposing to install a left-turn lane at the intersection of U.S. 2 and Lake Five Road near West Glacier.
Shelter Island estate sold
A luxury home on a private island in Flathead Lake has a new owner, according to Flathead County property records.
Kalispell students top state math contest
Two Kalispell math students — Flathead High School sophomore Jelisa Holmquist and Glacier High School junior Silas Schwarz — swept the top spots at the state-level Trig-Star math contest with perfect scores.
Power firm wants Montana Supreme Court to combine two shoreline cases
A former operator of Kerr Dam is set to go to trial in October over whether it is liable for damage to the shoreline caused by water-level fluctuations on Flathead Lake.

Snappy's osprey hatch an internet sensation
Nearly two months after Snappy Sport Senter unveiled its “osprey cam” atop a 60-foot pole outside the Evergreen sporting-goods store, a pair of newborn ospreys are helping drive international traffic to the website.

Smart jewelry: The fashion-forward way to stay connected

10 parenting hacks of ingenious dads

10 healthy ways to enjoy the best of summer

Joyce (Hagen) Paliga Powell, 86
Joyce (Hagen) Paliga Powell, 86, of Libby, passed away Tuesday, June 7, 2016, at the Libby Care Center of natural causes.
Alphonse A. LaBere, 87
Alphonse A. LaBere, 87, was born in Ray, North Dakota, Jan. 22, 1929, to Alphonse A. Sr. and Sylvia (Hartsoch) LaBere.
Donald Jordan Reynolds, 85
Don was born on Oct. 22, 1930, to Kenneth and Gladys Reynolds in Kalispell.

Nancy Michelle (Taylor) Whaley, 52
Nancy was born Oct. 4, 1963, in Kalispell.

When is the best time to invest - or not?
Edward 'Ed' Sundberg, 59
Edward “Ed” Sundberg, formerly of Havre, was a true-hearted friend to all who knew him. After a long struggle with diabetes, “he passed on to a better place” on June 5, 2016.

Glenda Line-Williams, 68
Glenda Line-Williams, 68, passed away unexpectedly on May 31, 2016.
DAYBOOK, June 15

Queveene Talley, 100
Queveene Talley, our mother, aunt and friend, left us June 10, 2016. We celebrated her 100th birthday this March with family and friends. When asked what her secret to a long life was she said, “Work hard and laugh often.”
Tuesday, June 14

BASKETBALL: Class AA to add divisional tournament
Meeting of activity directors, principals sends proposal for MHSA approval
If approved by the Montana High School Association, divisional basketball tournaments will be coming to the state’s largest classification starting in 2018.
BASEBALL: Lakers A swept in Bitterroot
FLORENCE — The Kalispell Lakers A ended up on the wrong side of a pair of 3-2 decisions Tuesday night in Western A conference play against the Bitterroot Bucs.
TUESDAY BRIEFS: Saturday bike ride for suicide prevention; Popp invited to USA Swimming camp
Kalispell’s Patrick Malone, in conjunction with the
LAW ROUNDUP: Drivers should watch out for bicyclists

Joyce (Hagen) Paliga Powell, 86

Nancy Michelle (Taylor) Whaley, 52

Queveene Talley, 100

Glenda Line-Williams, 68

Snappy's osprey hatch an internet sensation
LOCAL ROUNDUP: Bike rodeo launches reading challenge
Whitefish Community Library kicks off its Summer Reading Challenge with a bike rodeo from 10:30 a.m. to noon Thursday, June 16, at the library’s north parking lot.

Rainy day geese
A flock of geese make their way across a field in the rain on Tuesday afternoon, June 14, south of Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Jesse Willis

Kalispell pair face murder charges
Flathead County sheriff’s deputies have arrested two suspects on homicide charges after discovering the body of a young man in a creek east of Creston on Monday.

Robert Wittal
LETTER: Deny illegal aliens free stuff
Why do illegals from Mexico cross the border? The answer is simple; they want a better life for themselves that their country is unable to give them. For their pregnant wives, they get free prenatal care and birthing; for the family, free medical services and social services; and for their children, free schooling.
LETTER: Concession plan for park is wrong
Concessions are contrary to the state parks. Ultimately there will be signage. Where does it lead? It’s a precedent, and I foresee food concessions — hot dogs, sodas, etc. — resulting in trash. We all hopefully recognize Flathead Lake as pristine. The ugliness of concessions is incompatible.
LETTER: Local water use must be protected
In January 2004 we returned home from a trip. The drive had been grueling because of icy roads and frigid temperatures. We wanted to warm up with a hot shower but when we turned on the water, there was only a dribble. We thought the pipes had frozen but they hadn’t. Then we thought the pump had broken. Fortunately, we were able to get an expert out the next day.
LETTER: Commissioners should act to stop bottling plant
Do you think the water right you have on your well guarantees you will have the water you need to supply your home or farm?
LETTER: Lives well lived
Recently the Flathead Valley and the Flathead Catholic community lost two men, both of whom were examples of lives well lived, and though in different fields, their work and personality was much the same.

The Alano Club
Detail of an Alcoholics Anonymous poster at the Alano Club on Monday, June 13, in Kalispell.

New tool promises to bridge communication gap for overactive bladder
Students study ecology of North Fork lakes
The Crown of the Continent Research Learning Center in Glacier National Park hosted 45 students for the Glacier Lake Ecology BioBlitz on May 25 and 26.
Woman ignores friend request
Monday, June 13
Yvonne Joy Ward, 61
Yvonne Joy Ward, 61, was born in Kalispell on Nov. 18, 1954, to Raymond and Doris Ingram, and passed away on June 5, 2016, in Bigfork.

Nancy Michelle (Taylor) Whaley, 52
Nancy was born Oct. 4, 1963, in Kalispell.
Helicopter, crew suppress lightning fire
Wildfire season in Lincoln County kicked off Wednesday night when a lightning strike caused a small fire on Barren Peak.
County pushes for early immunizations
To reduce long clinic lines, the Flathead City-County Health Department is kicking off an effort this summer to get children immunized early.
High court won't hear husband killer's case
The Kalispell woman who killed her husband by pushing him off a Glacier National Park cliff in 2013 will not get her case heard by the highest court in the land.

Heirloom Rocking Chairs by Hans Mizee
Two of the completed rocking chairs by Hans Mizee in his home on Monday, June 13, west of Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Timber firm to maintain public hunting access
Weyerhaeuser has agreed to continue allowing public hunting access on most of its private forest land for another year, leaving state officials hopeful the company will move toward a more comprehensive access agreement in the future.

18 teens charged in vandalism case
Eighteen of the 21 teens allegedly involved in a vandalism event at Flathead High School on May 10 have been charged with misdemeanors in Kalispell Municipal Court.

Greg Acton is retiring
Utility Operation Supervisor Greg Acton at the Whitefish Water Treatment Plant on Monday, June 13. Acton will be retiring after 42 years on Friday. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

6 tips and insights to avoid the 'grandparent scam'

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FJ June 2016

Simple tips to save money, conserve energy as the heat rises

FHS teacher named state History Teacher of the Year
A passion for the past
After the last day of school, Flathead High School history teacher and department head Sean O’Donnell readied his classroom for summer. A few students dashed around the mostly empty hallways clearing lockers and trashing notes.

Local Guard member earns spirit award
Army National Guard Pfc. Jesse Willis of Columbia Falls may be the first recipient from the Flathead Valley to earn the Montana National Guard Spirit of the Solider Award.
Sunday, June 12
Legion baseball: Glacier Twins A go 5-0 at School's Out Classic
POST FALLS, Idaho — The Glacier Twins A wrapped up three days of play in the Prairie Cardinals School’s Out Classic American Legion baseball tournament on Sunday by defeating the Missoula Prospects 14-11 in the championship game and Miles City earlier in the day 9-1.
Tourists' parking causes issues
An employee of an East Second Street business called the

Terrrorism shooting in Orlando nightclub
Jermaine Towns, left, and Brandon Shuford wait down the street from a multiple shooting at a nightclub in Orlando, Fla., Sunday, June 12, 2016. Towns said his brother was in the club at the time. A gunman opened fire at a nightclub in central Florida, and multiple people have been wounded, police said Sunday. (AP Photo/Phelan M. Ebenhack)

Pheasant Lounge partially destroyed by fire
The Pheasant Lounge on Main Street in Ronan was hit by fire early Sunday Morning, June 12. (Andrea Downing photo/Lake County Leader)

Ronan bar hit by fire Sunday morning
Ronan firefighters jumped out of bed at about 3:40 a.m. Sunday to respond to the call of smoke coming from the Pheasant Lounge in Ronan.

Nightclub Shooting
An injured man is escorted out of the Pulse nightclub after a shooting rampage Sunday morning in Orlando, Fla. A gunman wielding an assault-type rifle and a handgun opened fire inside a crowded gay nightclub early Sunday, killing at least 50 people before dying in a gunfight with SWAT officers, police said. It was the deadliest mass shooting in American history. (AP Photo/Steven Fernandez)

50 dead, more than 50 injured at Orlando nightclub in deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history
ORLANDO, Fla. — It had been an evening of drinking, dancing and drag shows. After hours of revelry, the party-goers crowding the gay nightclub known as the Pulse took their last sips before the place closed.

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OPINION: A tribute to Dr. Chuck Jonkel
The highly intelligent, much esteemed by everyone who knew him or heard of him, renowned worldwide, Dr. Chuck Jonkel, of grizzly bear and polar bear behavioral scientific research fame and advocate for their survival, passed away April 12 in Missoula, at age 85.
OPINION: EPA oversight at CFAC site critical for our future
I have been watching the events around the Columbia Falls Aluminum plant unfold with great concern. The issue hits right at home, as I am raising my two boys just outside of Columbia Falls, and have worked as a university researcher on water quality and rivers for over a decade.
OPINION: Muhammad Ali: a reporter's remembrance
I met and interviewed Muhammad Ali before one of his biggest fights.
OPINION: Heritage Center would protect common legacy
As the rhetoric ramps up leading to the election and the next legislative session, so does the finger-pointing at the failure of the past Legislature to pass meaningful infrastructure funding in the final form of Senate Bill 416.
OPINION: Teacher 'cringes' at editor's column and 'lack of empathy'
I have lived in Kalispell since 1959, after a few years of family wanderlust thanks to the U.S. Army. Since that time, I have gleaned a decent education from the local and state schools, and have tried to pay back this community by working primarily as a teacher.
OPINION: Don't blame the messengers ...
Regarding Bill Cox’s letter in the Inter Lake about Islamic/Syrian refugees moving into Montana and the citizenry who oppose it, Cox says the letters opposing this “migration” were orchestrated by a campaign of propaganda to demonize Muslims. Are you saying Mr. Cox that the hundreds of citizens who showed up at the Flathead County commissioners’ office are all Islamophobic? Is that the same as saying all those who disagree with President Obama are all racists?
LETTER: Hospital's growth should be matched by new infrastructure
I am impressed with the scope and services that the planned pediatric wing at KRMC will offer. This $40 million project should give Northwest Montana patients, visitors, and residents the sophisticated care they have often had to seek elsewhere.
LETTER: Letter to editor from CAIR disingenuous
I found the May 1 letter from Arsalan Bukhari, the Washington state director for CAIR (the Council on American-Islamic Relations) quite astounding. He condemns the Inter Lake for publishing a letter suggesting that Syrian refugees in Missoula, if like Muslims in other U.S. cities and other countries such as France, would likely not assimilate.
LETTER: Bottling plant's water use not same as farmers'
Sorry, but I’m growing tired of Lew Weaver and the proposed Montana Artesian Bottling Company’s habit of trying to compare the bottling of water for export to farmers’ irrigation wells. This has nothing to do with acre-feet of water used, and everything to do with “need” and “want.”
EDITORIAL: Hospital's growth benefits us all
Kalispell Regional Heathcare is poised to add another dimension to its repertoire of health-care services in the Flathead Valley by building a $40 million pediatric center.
Saturday, June 11

RUGBY: Flathead Valley Black and Blue win state championship
Beat Missoula Mud Dogs 19-12 for title
MISSOULA — The Flathead Valley Black and Blue defeated the Missoula Mud Dogs 19-12 in the championship match to win the Montana Youth Rubgy Association State Tournament on Saturday at Fort Missoula.
LEGION ROUNDUP: Pitchers carry Lakers AA to sweep; Twins A tops Gonzaga
BOZEMAN — Haydn Schlepp drilled a bases-clearing first inning double and Dawson Smith fired a four-hit complete game in the first half of a doubleheader sweep for the Kalispell Lakers AA over the Bozeman Bucks on Saturday afternoon in American Legion baseball action.
AUTO RACING: Stock car association lists latest HOF inductees
The NorthWest Montana Stock Car Racing Association (NWMSCRA) will induct three individuals and one family into its Hall of Fame Class for 2016 at a ceremony to be held later this year at a site yet to be determined.
Woman accused of tracking man, then threat involving gun with gun

Conservancy leader steps down

Mark Preiss
Craggy Range finishes extensive remodel

Kalispell, Missoula ag co-ops consolidate

CHS consolidation
Will Price stacks grass lawn seed at the CHS in Kalispell on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Sealing Manholes in Whitefish
Kyle Ruechel puts the lower layer of a fiberglass singing into the bottom of a 42 inch manhole on Wednesday morning, June 8, in Whitefish. The purpose is to seal off groundwater infiltration into the sewer system. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Sewer fix aims to keep groundwater out
Solutions to jammed jail taking shape
Person takes a bite out of crime

Mary Evelyn Wyman, 85
Mary Evelyn Wyman, 85

Pamela Jo (nee Crane) Forsythe, 64

Glenda Line-Williams, 68
Glenda Line-Williams, 68

Vivian Marjorie (Wheeler) LaMeres, 91

Pamela Jo (Crane) Forsythe, 64
Pamela Jo (Crane) Forsythe, 64
COLUMN: Vietnam heroes straddled two worlds with honor
The ceremony in Kalispell earlier this month that saw roughly 200 local Vietnam War veterans receive lapel pins for their service in the war was a heartfelt reminder of the sacrifice and bravery of our military in even the most trying of circumstances.

Schools experiment with fungal filler for beef
On May 24, Jason Mahlen, co-owner of Lower Valley Processing, poured diced mushrooms into a grinder mixer. He then moved to the front of the machine where the mushrooms blended with ground beef were stamped into roughly 240 hamburger patties.
Friday, June 10

FOOTBALL: South wins Class B all-star game
BILLINGS — The South squad won a slugfest in the Class B Big Sky All-Star Football game on Friday night at Daylis Stadium, holding the North to very little offense in a 14-3 victory.
BASKETBALL: Bennett, Montana slip in all-star opener to Wyoming
SHERIDAN, Wyo. — Hailee Bennett scored four points as the Montana team fell behind Wyoming in a 71-64 loss in the Midland Roundtable Montana-Wyoming All-Star basketball series on Friday.
LEGION ROUNDUP: Glacier Twins crush Crew; K.V. Rangers edge Havre
POST FALLS, Idaho — The Glacier Twins had five base hits in the first inning to rack up four runs and start early on a 13-4 rout of the Spokane Crew on Friday at the School’s Out tournament.

LEGION: Big inning boosts Kalispell Lakers A over Mission Valley
Kalispell sends 13 to plate in 7-run 3rd, sinks Mariners
Ryan Symmes singled twice during a seven-run third and Sam Elliott twirled six solid innings to lead the Kalispell Lakers A to a 7-2 win over the Mission Valley Mariners on Friday night at Griffin Field.

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Kalispell Lakers A pitcher Sam Elliott fires in a pitch against the Mission Valley Mariners during the Lakers' 7-2 victory at Griffin Field on Friday. Elliott pitched 6 innings and allowed two runs on three hits. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kalispell Lakers A third baseman Brady Peiffer throwss out Micah McClure at first base during the Lakers' 7-2 win in the first game of a double header at Griffin Field on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Death in hot spring shows challenges rangers face
BILLINGS — The death of a tourist who left a boardwalk and fell into a boiling, acidic spring in Yellowstone National Park shows the challenges that rangers face as they confront soaring numbers of visitors — including some who break the rules.
Best of Flathead 2016
Floaters rescued after their raft flips
The

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Edilth Heath laughs as she looks at the selfie Christy Harper of the Rising Mountain Assisted Living took during the Older Americans' Picnic at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Friday. The picnic was sponsored by the Flathead Agency of Aging and more than 400 people attended it. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Jim Brittenham of Columbia Falls laughs as he eats of piece of lettuce during the Older Americans' Picnic at the Flathead county Fairgrounds on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Mark Lalum, a general manager for CHS, stands inside the Kalispell store on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The CHS store in Kalispell is consolidating with the CHS in Missoula. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Will Price stacks grass lawn seed at the CHS in Kalispell on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
LETTER: Doctor's work countered effects of Agent Orange
OPINION: Islamic plan for taking over West
LETTER: Commissioners lauded for trying to reject refugees
LETTER: Free the world of nuclear weapons
LETTER: Join fight against bottling plant
LETTER: Christian values and a 'misleading' letter

Tribes craft transfer legislation for Bison Range
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes on Friday released a draft bill to transfer management of the National Bison Reserve near Moiese from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to the tribes.

Understanding coronary artery disease and the latest treatment technologies

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Tristan Miller, 6, gets his haircut from Natasha Weber as his brother Dawson, 2, looks on during the 2016 Project Homeless Connect at the Gateway Community Center on Friday. The event provided many free services for people that are homeless or at risk for homelessness. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Alexis Joseph, 7, plays with dental tools as her mom Winter Joseph gets a dental cleaning from Julie Barnwell during the 2016 Project Homeless Connect at the Gateway Community Center on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Shadow smell a bag as dog food as its owner Terri Colson gives information to volunteer Suzie Foley to get Shadow shots during the 2016 Project Homeless. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
Camp-raiding bear killed in Glacier
Park rangers on Thursday killed a 100-pound, male black bear in Glacier National Park after several reports in which it exhibited food-conditioned behavior.

Johnny Perez Jr.
Johnny Perez Jr., a 2016 Whitefish graduate, has spent most of his life moving from foster home to foster home.

El conocimiento es poder para los cuidadores de pacientes con Alzheimer
Attorney says man acted in self-defense
A man pleaded not guilty in Flathead District Court on Thursday to felony assault with a weapon for allegedly firing two shots and injuring a man in May.

For Alzheimer's caregivers, knowledge is power

Kalispell woman part of Miss Montana Pageant
Sierra Crandell, 20, of Kalispell is one of 11 contestants this week in the 67th Miss Montana Scholarship Pageant in Glendive.
Web developer gets grant for future employees
A Whitefish business is one of 12 Montana businesses to receive grant funding from the Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund.

Crews tackle final Sun Road tasks
For the first time this year, all 50 miles of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road are clear of snow and ice, but remaining work will push the Logan Pass opening date into next week at the earliest.
EDITORIAL: Prosecutor makes the right call
There was welcome news recently when a woman was arrested and charged in relation to the killing of her son by her boyfriend.
WEEKEND UPDATE: Homeless Connect
The 2016 Project Homeless Connect event is from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. today at the Gateway Community Center, 1203 U.S. 2 W., in Kalispell.
Visits to Yellowstone up 15 percent in May
Yellowstone National Park had nearly 445,000 visitors in May, a 15 percent increase over a year ago.

Marilyn Grace (Moorhouse) Lalum, 88
Marilyn Lalum, a longtime resident of the Flathead Valley, died peacefully on June 5, 2016, surrounded by her family at the Holy Family Hospital in Spokane.

Gym-free fitness ideas anyone can do

Robert Charles 'Weller' Weller, 71
Robert Charles Weller, 71, passed away in the early morning hours of June 4, 2016, after a short illness with esophageal cancer.
Richard Duane Riedinger, 70
Richard “Rich” Duane Riedinger passed away at his home in Benton City, Washington, on Feb. 7, 2016, after a two-year battle with cancer.

Randy Drollinger, 61
Randy Drollinger was born May 22,1955, in Kalispell. Following a logging accident, Randy was “called home by the Lord” on June 6, 2016, at the age of 61.
DAYBOOK, June 10
Thursday, June 9
COLUMN: Shelley Burton's brush with The Greatest
The most famous fighter from Kalispell was not a boxing fan growing up.

5 easy ways to make your summer BBQ a smoking success
County pumped up over alleged theft

Robert Charles 'Weller' Weller, 71

Marilyn Grace (Moorhouse) Lalum, 88

Mark D. Hader, 51

Randy Drollinger, 61

Crews tackle final Sun Road tasks
Road crews dig out a path to the Logan Pass Visitor Center and restrooms on Wednesday in Glacier National Park. (National Park Service photo)
Family may have lived with body in camper three months
After allegedly living with the decomposing body of their nephew in an Arlee camper for nearly three months, an Idaho couple are facing murder charges.

Sierra Crandell
Sierra Crandell

Wreck.jpg
A toyota sits in the middle of U.S. 93 North after a two-vehicle accident at the intersection with Montana 82 on Thursday. The accident blocked both northbound lanes. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Kalispell pilot a finalist for White House Fellowship
Former U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds lead solo pilot Maj. Jason Curtis of Kalispell is among the national finalists for the 2016-17 White House Fellows Program, the White House announced Thursday.
Court: No right to carry concealed weapons in public
SAN FRANCISCO — Dealing a blow to gun supporters, a federal appeals court ruled Thursday that Americans do not have a constitutional right to carry concealed weapons in public.

Sealing Manholes in Whitefish
The crew from SuperTec begins to add a fiberglass lining to a manhole along the shore of Whitefish Lake on Wednesday morning, June 8. In this round of work be lining 44 manholes. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday profile: Sean O'Donnell
Flathead High School teacher Sean O'Donnell received the 2016 Montana History Teacher of the Year award from the Glilder Lehrman Institute of American History.

Hampton Inn Grand Opening
Larry Lambert, president of Lambert Hotels, in blue, cuts the ribbon at the grand opening of the Hampton Inn and Suites in Whitefish on Wednesday evening, June 8. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
LETTER: Let BNSF know what you think about oil trains
Many individuals and organizations have written about the vulnerability of the Middle Fork of the Flathead River to a catastrophic oil train spill. There are great ideas of how to avoid a spill already out there, and I trust that Burlington Northern Santa Fe will take these suggestions seriously.
LETTER: Marijuana is not dangerous drug
Our criminal system promises to be fair to American residents — or does it?
LETTER: Kalispell council should stay out of bathroom issue
Every once in a while an issue arises that catches my attention and makes me wonder. The latest national issue pertains to the use of the bathroom by transgender individuals.

Wings of Hope Butterfly Release
Detail of a Monarch butterfly at the Wings of Hope Butterfly Release on Sunday, June 5, in Depot Park, in Whitefish. The annual event raised around $5000 according to Marcie Jackson of Flathead Cancer Aid Services and was held on National Cancer Survivor’s Day, the first Sunday in June. (Photos by Bill Milner, courtesy of Marcie Jackson of Flathead Cancer Aid Services).

Samantha Ray
Samantha Ray outside her home on Thursday morning, June 9, in Whitefish. In January, Ray was diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer. In February she was in hospice and given two weeks to live. She has been taking part in an experimental treatment in Arizona and is on her way to remission.
LETTER: Here's good news to consider
With all this constant dribble regarding Donald Trump being in the news, I thought I’d share something very exciting now happening right here in the Flathead Valley!
LETTER: Glacier Bank gets rave review from ex-worker
What comes to your mind when you think friendliness, smiles, customer service, downtown Kalispell sky-bridge, branch offices “everywhere,” free checking and free gifts? Most people think of Glacier Bank. What you may not know are other facts that this former “insider” wants to reveal.

Ways to take a leading role in type 2 diabetes management
Man appeals drug sentence
A Flathead County sex offender is appealing his federal conviction for criminal distribution of dangerous drugs and being a felon in possession of a firearm, arguing that a court wrongly interpreted his prior convictions as violent.
OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: Hikers to venture out on new Dollar Lake trails
Guided hikes hosted by Whitefish Legacy Partners continue on the Whitefish Trail tonight.

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TWIF 060916
Car theft prompts program open house
Administrators of a Rexford program that helps behaviorally challenged adopted children dismissed two youths after they allegedly stole a car early Sunday morning and drove to Idaho, where they were caught a few hours later.
COLUMN: Fishing is as hot as the weather
Wow, where to begin this week? Let’s start with the temperatures, of which I am already growing weary! Feeling “wilted” is a term I have used lately, and I now have a three-hour sunscreen reminder on my cell.
New milk fee plan goes out for public review
The Montana Department of Livestock on Friday released a draft rule to extend milk inspection fees to dairy processors, kicking off a public comment period through July 1.

The exception is now the rule: There's a 'new majority' in college classrooms
County looks to map areas with radiation in water
Water testing west of Kalispell has revealed concerning levels of radioactive elements in some private drinking wells. The reports have led county health officials on a search to find possibly contaminated areas to notify people who are at greater risk.
Zoologist Jack Hanna featured at Whitefish event
Foundation planning ‘A Wild Time’
Local celebrity and renowned zoologist Jack Hanna will be in Whitefish July 16 for “A Wild Time” — this year’s theme for the Montana Outdoor Legacy Foundation’s annual rendezvous fundraiser.
City Council diary
A summary of city council actions on Monday
DAYBOOK, June 9

A conversation with Flannel Graph
Storytellers, music-makers
A flannelgraph is a simple board, covered in fabric and resting on an easel, used for visual storytelling. Flannel Graph, a local duo of musical storytellers Leon Gregory and Shayla Smith, is then aptly named.
EDITORIAL: Agriculture - A Flathead tradition
The Flathead Valley put itself on the map back in the 1890s as one of Montana’s prime agricultural locations, and for the next 100 years it entirely lived up to that reputation.
This Week in the Flathead | June 9-15
Wednesday, June 8
TERRY COLUMN: Everything I know isn't all that much
“What am I doing wrong?”
BASEBALL ROUNDUP: Kalispell Lakers AA swamp Mariners
Offense erupts for 20 runs in blowout win
POLSON — Jake Halland homered, doubled twice and drove in five runs as the Kalispell Lakers AA went on the road and routed the Mission Valley Mariners 20-5 Wednesday night.
LAW ROUNDUP: Feds investigate death of grizzly
State Veterans Affairs director quits
The director of the Veterans Affairs Montana Health Care System has resigned as the agency conducts an internal investigation into allegations of senior leadership misconduct.

Yellowstone hot spring death

Man dies in acidic hot spring: 'No remains left to recover'
Rangers suspended their attempts on Wednesday to recover the body of a man who wandered from a designated boardwalk and fell into an acidic hot spring at Yellowstone National Park, another in a string of incidents raising concerns over visitor behavior.

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Vivi, a toy poodle, rides in Lisa Melby's backpack during a walk in Kalispell on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Johnny Perez, a 2016 Whitefish graduate, has spent most of his life moving from foster home to foster home. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Hedges second-grader Evan Mele reads, left, the story he wrote to classmate in Elaine's classroom on Wednesday. Students wrote a story about what they have learned in the class and designed a quilt to tell the story. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Luke Harrington wets his hand in a sprinkler at Woodland Park on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Luke Flammond plants zinnias at Woodland Park on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Woodland Ducklings
A mother duck keeps close watch over her babies in Woodland Park on Tuesday evening, June 7, in Kalispell (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Hurraw
Hurraw Vanilla Bean Lip Balm (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead Journal: John's Angels Catering
Kristen Ledyard, executive chef, and Brad Cassidy, head chef, in the kitchen at John’s Angels Catering in Whitefish on Tuesday, May 24. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Flannel Graph
Flannel Graph — Shayla Smith and Leon Gregory — at Lone Pine State Park on Thursday, May 26.

5 ways to shake up your summer beauty routine

Living with tummy troubles? Here's how nutrition can help
Young man found beaten to death in Arlee
Lake County authorities plan to issue arrest warrants in the beating death of a man found dead in Arlee last week.
Assault suspect faces $500,000 bail
A Lincoln County man has been jailed on a $500,000 warrant after he allegedly impregnated a 13-year-old girl.
Rape charge filed against teen in Kalispell case
A Kalispell teen has been charged with one felony count of sexual assault and another felony count of sexual intercourse without consent involving a 5-year-old boy.

Award-winning interior designer reveals 5 ways to a must-have media room
Teen who allegedly stole car, led police on chase due in court soon
A Columbia Falls teen is due in court June 15 for a hearing in a case where he is accused of stealing a car and leading law enforcement on a March 11 chase after officers were called to investigate him as the alleged perpetrator of a sexual assault.
Counting votes: Tallies from Tuesday's primary
Following are unofficial results from Tuesday’s primary election:

Sci-fi or silver bullet? How immunotherapy is revolutionizing cancer treatment
Thunderstorms possible today along with more high heat
Northwest Montana is in for another round of thunderstorms today after a fast-moving system whipped across the south end of Flathead Lake Tuesday.
LOCAL ROUNDUP: Benefit ride to help suicide prevention
Local cyclist Patrick Malone is organizing a 64-mile bike ride between Kalispell, Kila and Somers to raise money and awareness on youth suicide prevention to benefit the Flathead Valley-based Nate Chute Foundation.
Homeless effort planned Friday at Kalispell's Gateway Center
The 2016 Project Homeless Connect will take place from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, June 10, at the Gateway Community Center, 1203 U.S. 2 W. in Kalispell.
Stephen 'Coach' Hullett, 65
Stephen “Coach” Hullett, 65, passed away “to be with the Lord” on May 29, 2016, in Kalispell.

Paula Viola (Ortlip) Fox, 94
Paula Viola (Ortlip) Fox, 94, formerly of Golden Valley, Minnesota, passed away of natural causes Tuesday morning, May 31, 2016 in Kalispell.

Mark D. Hader, 51
Mark Duane Hader, 51

Top energy-efficient housing features every new homebuyer should know
DAYBOOK, June 8

Nancy Ann Holter, 91
Nancy Ann Holter, 91, passed away peacefully Saturday, June 4, 2016, at St. Patrick Hospital, surrounded by her family. She lived at The Springs Independent Living since March and is formerly of the Bigfork area, Great Falls, Glasgow and Sun City, Arizona.

Danny 'Hal' Coker Jr., 45
Danny “Hal” Coker Jr. “rode his horse through the pearly gates to be with his Lord” on May 23, 2016.

Eva Bair, 98
Funeral services for Eva Bair will be held at 12:10 p.m. on Thursday at St. Matthew’s Catholic Parish.
Tuesday, June 7

GOLF: Flathead alum Kyle Dunfee named new Braves, Bravettes coach
Bravettes basketball assistant graduated from school in 2006
Ten years after his competitive golf career ended, Kyle Dunfee has his first varsity head coaching job, and he even need to leave town to get it.

Final results: Holmquist, Regier, Skees win in primary
Incumbent Flathead County Commissioner Pam Holmquist fended off a primary challenge and earned the Republican nomination from voters on Tuesday.
TUESDAY BRIEFS: Libby's Mee finishes strong but misses out on U.S. Open
VANCOUVER, Wash. — Libby golfer Jim Mee recovered from a poor first round but fell short of qualifying for next week’s U.S. Open, finishing in a tie for 21st at the sectional qualifier at Royal Oaks Country Club.

Lawyer, energy expert Bruce Measure dies at 64
Bruce Measure, a Kalispell lawyer, former state legislator and longtime leader on local and regional energy policy, died Monday at age 64 following a battle with cancer.
Flathead Lake fills a week early
It’s a local sign of summer: Flathead Lake has effectively reached its full summer level a week early, following a month marked by swollen streams and faster-than-average snowmelt.

Bruce Measure

Montana voters back Trump
HELENA — Montana voters boosted Donald Trump's lock on the Republican presidential nomination Tuesday, as Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock and his GOP rival, Bozeman businessman Greg Gianforte, easily defeated token opponents in their primary elections.
LAW ROUNDUP: Woman manages flaming chicken situation with officer's help

Nancy Ann Holter, 91

Paula Viola (Ortlip) Fox, 94

Danny 'Hal' Coker Jr., 45

Eva Bair, 98

La verdad sobre el Alzheimer: la detección precoz marca la diferencia

The Tip List for Pets - Keeping Your Dog Fit and Healthy

Uptown Hearth
From left, Heidi Dettmering, Terri Feury and Kendra Hope gather together in the Uptown Hearth which is still under construction on Tuesday morning, June 7, in Columbia Falls. Feury hopes the bakery will be open to the public early in July. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Primaries in Montana
Terry Peterson casts his vote on Tuesday morning in Columbia Falls on June 7. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Conservation easement

Primary election
May visitors surge in Glacier Park
Lending credence to predictions that crowds will reach an all-time high this summer, Glacier National Park set a new May visitation record alongside a new rainfall record last month.
Falling tree claims life of Kalispell logger
Randy Scott Drollinger, 61, of Kalispell died Monday when a tree fell on him at a logging camp near Lake Mary Ronan.
LETTER: Social Security provision unfair
I served the federal government for 34 years, all of it outside of the United States with the Department of Defense Dependent Schools, serving proudly as an educator.
LETTER: Fight back against the elites
In the last 50 years, there’s been a war on racialism, poverty, illegal drugs, illegal immigration, terrorism, war, cancer and illiteracy.
LETTER: Bikes not good fit for pack trails
In regard to the Sunday, April 10, letter of Frank Vitale’s with the scenario envisioning a wreck on a wilderness pack trail between a packstring and a high speed mountain biker — this is not a concept confined to wilderness: It could happen on any pack trail.
Man charged in Bigfork stabbing
A man is facing felony assault with a weapon charges after he allegedly stabbed a man four times at 405 Bridge Street in Bigfork on May 28.
Woman admits sixth DUI
A Troy woman admitted Thursday to committing her sixth offense of driving under the influence of alcohol.
Applicants sought for advisory council
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking volunteer applicants to fill up to six slots on the Kalispell region’s Citizen Advisory Committee.
Man gets probation for fifth felony conviction
Flathead District Judge Amy Eddy gave a man a probationary sentence on Thursday for his fifth felony conviction, but warned him that if he didn’t follow the letter of the law she would not hesitate to send him to boot camp.
Two teens arrested in string of burglaries
Two teens each face four counts of felony burglary, with more counts anticipated, after they allegedly were found with loot linked to a number of recent break-ins in the West Reserve Drive area.
Teen who allegedly stole car, led police on chase due in court
A Columbia Falls teen is due in court June 15 for a hearing in a case where he is accused of stealing a car and leading law enforcement on a March 11 chase after officers were called to investigate him as the alleged perpetrator of a sexual assault.
Man killed by falling tree
A man died after a tree fell on him near a logging camp Monday morning near Lake Mary Ronan.
Big Drift now a big sheet of ice
Glacier National Park’s plow crews headed up Monday morning to the Big Drift, once a 60-foot accumulation of snow at the top of Going-to-the-Sun Road, and encountered a big ice sheet after a weekend filled with sun and record-breaking temperatures.
Heat wave: Flathead bakes in record temps
The first day of summer is still two weeks off, but an early wave of 90-degree high temperatures already is setting single-day weather records in the Flathead Valley.
Montana Supreme Court upholds restitution in Westland Seed theft case
The Montana Supreme Court agreed with Lake County District Judge Deborah Kim Christopher and ordered that a felon pay more than $26,000 in restitution for stealing from his Ronan employer, Westland Seed.
DAYBOOK, June 7

Eunice Estelle Hiseler, 105
Eunice Estelle Hiseler, 105, beloved mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, “went home to be with her Lord and Savior” on Wednesday, June 1, 2016, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.
Monday, June 6
LAW ROUNDUP: Bear theft reversed with apology
A carved wooden bear with an address on it was stolen from a home on Tamarack Lane — and later returned with a note attached to it that said “Sorry,” according to the

Eunice Estelle Hiseler, 105
Plane burns at Ferndale airstrip
An explosion rattled the area around the Ferndale Airfield Airport early Sunday morning, after a plane caught fire between a row of hangars west of the airstrip.

The truth about Alzheimer's: early detection makes a difference

Scenic Barn
A view of a scenic barn north of Ronan on Friday evening, June 4. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Beating the heat
Ryan How attempts to beat the heat by working on his yard late in the evening on Friday, June 4, at his home near Lake Blaine. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Scenic Motnana
A red barn catches the last rays of sunset at the base of the Upper Swan Mountains near Lake Blaine on Friday evening, June 4. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Whitefish native steps into city clerk job
‘You put your pride back into where you live’
For 16 years, Michelle Howke was on the front line of answering phone calls to Whitefish City Hall, providing a steady voice of calm whether the caller was friendly or frazzled.

Four simple ways to stay safe this summer
Voters go to polls Tuesday for primary election
Montana’s primary election is Tuesday, when voters will decide party nominees at the federal, state and local levels.
Subdivision proposed north of Kalispell
A major subdivision proposed north of Kalispell along Whitefish Stage Road tops a full agenda for the Flathead County Planning Board on Wednesday, June 8.
Council to hold hearing on county grant application
The Kalispell City Council tonight will hold a public hearing on Flathead County’s grant application in search of funding for upgrades to the county fairgrounds.
Sunday, June 5
Kids, don't try this at home
A Rapids Avenue resident called the
Dog owners explain biting situation
Members of a Kalispell family say they were not trying to avoid prosecution when they moved a their dog out of Kalispell after it bit a 9-year-old girl who climbed over the fence to retrieve a ball on May 9.
OPINION: Does state's special ed funding pass the constitutional test?
The Montana Constitution says it is the goal of the people to establish a system of education that develops the full educational potential of each person. This includes helping students with disabilities to reach their potential.
OPINION: Do Muslims and Christians worship the same God?
Muslims claim to believe in “the God of Abraham,” which on the surface leads some Christians to assume that we then believe in the same God, but how can that be when Islam does not believe in the Triune God?

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OPINION: Clean waters deserve entire delegation's support
Clean water in Montana survived an under-the-radar attack in the U.S. Senate in April. And it’s a good thing, too, for it jeopardized Montana’s famed fish and wildlife populations, as well as our drinking water and irrigation supplies.
Comments being sought on north-shore farm lease
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking public comment on a draft environmental assessment for a five-year farm lease on the North Shore Waterfowl Management Area.
OPINION: Trees are growing every day; so are forest partnerships
To borrow the words of a good friend, our national forests are like a big sandbox and we all need to figure out how to play together in it!
OPINION: Dirty politics, desperate times, and a call for common sense
My generation (I’m 76 years old) has seen quite a number of history changing events in this country. Some have improved the lives of millions, and some have cost the lives of thousands.
LETTER: Additional thoughts about multiple sclerosis
I send kudos to reporter Katheryn Houghton on a well-done article May 22. As someone who was a caregiver for 13 years for a person with MS, I applaud any education about MS awareness.
LETTER: Thank you for bringing charges against mother of slain toddler
Thank you, prosecutor Andrew Clegg, for having a spine and FINALLY charging little Forrest Groshelle’s mother in his death. From what I can tell, she made the choice to do drugs herself and have a bad boyfriend around her child and watch her child.
LETTER: Charity? Let's take care of our own children
I am inundated daily through the news media to send what meager dollars Uncle Sam feels I am entitled to as a senior citizen on Social Security to support UNICEF and the many countries of the world. They plead for “just $21 per month per child” for these impoverished children.
LETTER: Former employee supports Don 'K'
Some have said you can tell a lot about a man by what he does when he thinks no one is watching. If that’s true, I can testify to the kind of man that Don “K” Kaltschmidt really is behind the scenes.
Water-plant foes seek county help
Creston-area residents are hoping to halt a proposed water bottling plant through changes in county law as the project heads toward an additional review of its draft water right at the state level.
LETTER: Thanks for new climbing rocks
The installation of the climbing rocks in Lawrence Park is a fine addition to our community.
LETTER: Don 'K' will bring common sense
Imagine a Legislature where caustic party infighting didn’t exist. Imagine a Legislature composed of true public servants, who put their constituents’ needs before personal philosophy. Imagine leadership gained by respect, not hammer and bullying. Imagine the return of a statesman Legislature, where the Montana public can be proud of the manner of discourse and respectful dialogue among both parties working for the common good. Imagine a Legislature where differences of opinion didn’t lead to name calling and political hit pieces to stifle legitimate debate.
LETTER: D-Day timetable in Montana
At approximately the time most Montana residents were turning in for the night, 72 years ago this coming Sunday (the 5th), troops were on landing crafts, and even some had already parachuted behind the lines during the night (mid-day Saturday, the 4th). Then about 11:30 p.m. the 5th (Montana time), the landings began.
OPINION: New federal employment rules will be a big change – and challenge – for state's employers
A new set of rules being promulgated by the United States Department of Labor has the potential to cause a major shift in the employment structure for most Montana employers.
Council plans July 5 vote on closing airport
The Kalispell City Council has decided to put closing the city airport to a council vote on July 5.
OPINION: Remembering D-Day: 'We should thank God that such men lived'
Seventy-two years ago, on June 6, 1944, Allied troops waded ashore on the beaches of Normandy to liberate Nazi-occupied Europe. The night before, on June 5, American airborne forces had landed on the western flank of the invasion area near Sainte-Mere-Église, while British airborne forces secured the eastern flank and Pegasus Bridge. They jumped out of C-47 Dakota transport planes, through darkness and into glory. Some arrived by glider. Pvt. John Steele of the 82nd Airborne landed on the steeple of the church at Sainte-Mere-Église. He managed to survive by playing dead.
Daybook, June 5

Addie Lorraine (Ramsey) Howard, 66
Island girl, mountain woman, hippie lady, Addie Lorraine (Ramsey) Howard, 66, passed away peacefully on Pi day, March 14, 2016, in Spokane.
EDITORIAL: Decision day for voters is Tuesday
Montana holds its primary election on Tuesday, and it promises to see a fairly large turnout. We encourage everyone who has the right to vote to do so, and based on early voting so far, we believe that many of you will participate.

Kay Paullin Johnson, 62
Kay Paullin Johnson passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on June 1, 2016, from metastatic breast cancer that had recurred after a 20-year remission.
Saturday, June 4

SOCCER: Beating the heat at Three Blind Refs
23rd annual tourney battles sweltering temps on first day
The greatest struggle at Kidsports Complex on Saturday was finding reprieve from the sun.
RUGBY: Kalispell Black and Blue bullies Frenchtown
Kalispell completes undefeated regular season
The Kalispell Black and Blue rugby squad scored early and often on the way to a 73-7 win against the Frenchtown Iron Horse on Saturday at Evergreen Junior High, finishing off an undefeated regular season.
LEGION BASEBALL: Mission Valley Mariners stumble in Missoula
MISSOULA — Mission Valley outhit Missoula but the Mavericks AA scored seven times in the third inning and raced to a 13-4 win over the Mariners A on Saturday.

Three Blind Refs 2016
Flathead Force's Chloe Nadeau passes the ball to a teammate in the U17/18 division at the Three Blind Refs Tournament on Saturday, June 4, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
LAW ROUNDUP: Bieber look-alike attempts to pry open window
Two teens described as looking like Justin Bieber and Jack White were allegedly trying to wrench open a stained glass window at an East Seventh Street church, a bicyclist told

Kay Paullin Johnson, 62

Addie Lorraine (Ramsey) Howard, 66

Glacier graduates cross 'finish line'
The Glacier High School gymnasium was standing room only on Saturday, June 4, at the Class of 2016 commencement ceremony in which 301 students received their diplomas. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Farmers plow ahead in daunting market
Tryg Koch and Greg Evenson talk as they wait while the fertilizer is reloaded and prepared for another pass on Friday afternoon, June 3, in Lower Valley. Heritage Custom Farming has 2,300 acres in Lower Valley and produces various crops including winter and spring wheat, peas, mustard, canola and hay. It is owned by Koch and his business partner Lee Buller. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

2016 Commencement
Jordan Griffith shares a laugh with a classmate before climbing the stage to receive her diploma on Saturday, June 4, at the Glacier High School Class of 2016 Commencement ceremony. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
Plea agreement resolves alleged sex assault case
A former player for the short-lived Glacier Outlaws baseball team admitted Thursday to going home drunk and waking up in bed with a woman he met at a bar in May 2015, but denied that he had ever sexually assaulted her.

Lakeside youth's story wins arts contest
Finney Manchala of Lakeside knows how to “Dream Big.”

Uprooted often, teen stays strong
New middle school off the table
A new middle school is out of the picture — for now — in proposed facility plans for Kalispell Public Schools.
DAYBOOK, June 4

Harold Lee Sturdevant, 85
On May 31, 2016, Harold Lee Sturdevant, 85, “was able to answer the call to come home” at Mountain View Manor in Eureka. He was born Sept. 24, 1930, in Roanoke, Texas, to Fred and Maudie Hunter Sturdevant.
Scott M. Clawson, 68
“What You See is What You Get.”
Friday, June 3
Three Blind Refs tournament schedule
Three Blind Refs tournament program

SOCCER: Three Blind Refs tournament begins Saturday
More than 120 teams set for 23rd annual showcase
Hotels, restaurants and just about every square inch of the Kidsports Complex will be teeming with soccer enthusiasts beginning this morning as the two-day Three Blind Refs soccer tournament, hosted by the Flathead Soccer Club, kicks off its 23rd annual event.

FRIDAY BRIEFS: Black & Blue end season Saturday; Whitefish's Park headed to Montana-Western
The Kalispell Black and Blue rugby club plays its last home game of the season at 2 p.m. today at Evergreen Junior High School, facing off against the Frenchtown Iron Horse.

Muhammad Ali
In this May 25, 1965, file photo, heavyweight champion Muhammad Ali is held back by referee Joe Walcott, left, after Ali knocked out challenger Sonny Liston in the first round of their title fight in Lewiston, Maine. Ali, the magnificent heavyweight champion whose fast fists and irrepressible personality transcended sports and captivated the world, has died according to a statement released by his family Friday, June 3, 2016. He was 74. (AP Photo/File)

Muhammad Ali, who riveted the world as 'The Greatest,' dies
Muhammad Ali, the magnificent heavyweight champion whose fast fists and irrepressible personality transcended sports and captivated the world, has died. He was 74.

Proud moments for Flathead grads
Celia Carmen, 17, gathered with her classmates in the weight room of Flathead High School before graduation got underway Friday. It was the start to the end of high school for Carmen and her classmates.

Flathead Graduation

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Stillwater graduated Kate Martin twirls her gold cord she received for being an honor student before the Stillwater Christian School 2016 Commencement Ceremony on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Stillwater Christian graduate Serena Koch gives the thumbs up as she walks down the aisle during the processional of the 2016 Commencement Ceremony. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Nexus Lin prays with the rest of the senior class before the 2016 Stillwater Christian School Commencement. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)
LAW ROUNDUP: Mysterious payoff in bar nixed
The
School Calendar, June 4

Harold Lee Sturdevant, 85

Uprooted often, teen stays strong
Faith Larson will graduate from Bigfork High School on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Lakeside youth's story wins arts contest

Farming in Lower Valley
Tryg Koch and Greg Evenson talk as they wait while the fertilizer is reloaded and prepares for another pass on Friday afternoon, June 3, in Lower Valley. Heritage Custom Farming has 2300 acres in Lower Valley and produces various crops including winter and spring wheat, peas, mustard, canola and hay. It is owned by Koch and his business partner Lee Buller. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
LETTER: Holmquist for commissioner
I encourage you to vote for Pam Holmquist for county commissioner in the primary election.

Charges pending against vandalism suspects
‘Totally unrelated’ to Flathead High case

Top 5 most distracted behaviors and how to change them
LETTER: Water compact ensures future of agriculture in Montana
The Salish and Kootenai Water Compact is much more than just a piece of legislation — it is a negotiated agreement that ensures the future of agriculture in our state. Without the compact, the tribes would have to define their water rights through litigation in the Montana Water Court — a costly, time consuming and uncertain process that would have dire impacts for Montana taxpayers, landowners and water users across our state. The tribes would have the earliest priority date of any water users. Failure to ratify the compact would not bode well for those with non-tribal water rights.
LETTER: Holmquist has proven experience
Experience is generally a good teacher. Pam Holmquist has proven that long-held axiom as her performance as county commissioner has demonstrated: improvement year after year.
OPINION: GOP candidates condemn ruling on illegal aliens
Northwest Montana candidates stand against state services being granted to illegal aliens at the expense of working families.
OPINION: Accountability or the lack of it
When I enlisted in the Navy in 1973, one of the requirements for a commission and eventual assignment as an aviator was that I complete the process for a clearance. I had to fill out a questionnaire and knew that the government would follow up with a background check and interviews with any persons I designated as a reference. This was a worry, as I’d been blessed to grow up in Montana and like a few of my pals, I had had a couple of colorful moments while misspending my youth.
EDITORIAL: Hats off to the Class of 2016!
Today and Saturday, hundreds of local high school seniors will step to the podium to receive their diplomas.

Wanted Evergreen mother arrested
The mother wanted in connection with the death of her 2-year-old son in Evergreen in February 2015 has been arrested.
WEEKEND UPDATE: Shred Event
The Agency on Aging, AARP and United Way are sponsoring a Community Shred Event and veterans food drive from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today at the Gateway Community Center’s west parking lot, 1203 U.S. 2 W., in Kalispell.
LOCAL ROUNDUP: City Beach opens for summer
City Beach in Whitefish is now open for the summer season.

Summer Nights Live: 3 ways to get the most out of your summer
Storms bring slides onto Sun Road
Plow crews toiling along Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park encountered 19 avalanches and rock slides after last week’s round of storms dumped heavy rain and snow on the mountains lining the alpine route.

Home crises didn't deter diploma quest

Livestock guardians: Top dogs for protecting your herd or flock

June Frances Baney Woffenden, 88
June Frances Baney Woffenden, 88, died, Sunday, May 29, 2016, at her home in Eureka.
DAYBOOK, June 3

Carol Anne Johnson, 72
Carol Anne Johnson, 72, passed away Tuesday, May 31, 2016, in Kalispell of natural causes.

Elsie Violet Persicke, 92
Elsie Violet Persicke, 92, passed away May 29, 2016.
Thursday, June 2

FEATURED: Keep 'er moving; Glacier's Amy Braig primed for college career
Glacier goalkeeper turns hard work into scholarship
There was no state championship celebration for Amy Braig her senior season.
COLUMN: Looking back on season one
The first time I walked into Legends Stadium, I took a picture.
SOFTBALL: Ronan, Libby stars named Class B/C all-state
Gatorade POY Achenbach (Conrad-Choteau) leads postseason honors
Ronan seniors Kaitlyn Sassaman and Amanda Morency and Libby junior Madisen Monigold were all named to the Class B/C All-State team when the list was announced on Thursday.

Glacier keeper Amy Braig
Glacier senior goal keeper Amy Braig is preparing to go to Lincoln Memorial University in the fall. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
LAW ROUNDUP: Bigfork High School gets another bomb threat

Carol Anne Johnson, 72

Elsie Violet Persicke, 92

June Frances Baney Woffenden, 88

Hospital plans $40 million pediatric center

Home crises didn't deter diploma quest
Chloe Marum, a senior at Flathead, is planning on attending Montana State University in Bozeman this fall. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

5 ways to beautify your deck without breaking the bank

Pinning ceremony honors Vietnam veterans
At 22 years old, Tim Grattan of Kalispell made his way through the jungles of Vietnam alongside the 600 South Vietnamese soldiers he helped advise. It was 1960.

Vietnam War Veterans Pinning Ceremony
The lobby outside the community room at Flathead Valley Community College’s Arts and Tech building was filled with Vietnam veterans and their friends and family early Thursday morning, June 2, in Kalispell, prior to a pinning ceremony with Congressman Ryan Zinke honoring their service and sacrifice. Service members wishing to receive a pin filled out cards with their names and branches of service. Just over 200 pins were given out in Kalispell including about a dozen pins given to recipients who accepted on behalf of veterans who could not be there. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)
LETTER: Vote Don 'K' in SD3
I spent 32 years in public service and came to know dozens of local, state and federal elected officials. The best of them were what I would call citizen-legislators. In other words they sought office in order to serve the public good, not for purposes of self-aggrandizement or permanency of employment.
LETTER: Is this the best we can do?
Is this the best we can do, Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump? There is no longer any illusion about the world we live in, as “reality TV” has come to presidential politics. Disappearing are candidates who are courteous and honest with a sense of dignity because, quite frankly, that’s not what our country wants.
LETTER: Candidate disputes writer's assumptions
In his letter to the editor in the Inter Lake on May 24, Mr. William G. Burns Jr. presented statements that have some facts mixed with misguided fiction and vague generalities.

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TWIF 060216

The 3 Steps of Mural Installation
Two accused of unemployment payment fraud
Two Kalispell men have been charged with felonies in Flathead District Court for allegedly taking unwarranted unemployment payments.
More raffles at hand to support injured bicyclist
The community continues to rally behind a bicyclist who was run over by a motorist on May 9.
Author catalogs 264 fatalities in park
It’s hardly a stretch to say that part of Glacier National Park’s mystique lies in the danger inherent to its dramatic landscape.
OUTDOORS ROUNDUP: River safety session offered on Friday
A free two-hour river safety lecture will be open to the public Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at Wild River Adventures in West Glacier.
Petition gathering upheld for trapping initiative
The political committee working to ban trapping on public lands in Montana was found to be in compliance with state campaign laws, according to a decision signed Tuesday by Montana Commissioner of Political Practices Jon Motl.
Survey finds support for public land
Underscoring the importance of public land and conservation to Montanans headed into the voting booths this year, a University of Montana survey released Wednesday found that 88 percent of the state’s voters prioritize those issues when deciding on a candidate.
LAW ROUNDUP: Deputy warns couple to keep it down

Resilient youth shows 'Glacier grit'
Council to re-examine South Kalispell plan
After a two-week hiatus from meetings, the Kalispell City Council will hold a work session tonight on an issue that has carried both hope and contention for South Kalispell.

The secret to maintaining and enjoying the beauty of your deck

Lakeside Dance Studio tells classic mermaid tale
Dancing 'Under the Sea'
Tales of mermaids and magical sea creatures are nothing new. Many people have written about what life might be like under the sea, swimming among mythical beings and seeing a world completely different from — but somehow still a part of — our own.

Walter Paul Weaver, 89
Walt Weaver, 89, passed away in his home, surrounded by his family, on May 30, 2016.
This Week in the Flathead | June 2-8
COLUMN: There are plenty of reasons to go fishing
Why do people fish? With the abundance of lakes, rivers and creeks in Northwest Montana, I think it is a rare adult who has never fished.
DAYBOOK, June 2
LETTER: Holmquist has done 'excellent job'
I am writing this letter to express my support for Pam Holmquist for Flathead County commissioner. In my opinion Pam has done an excellent job in the commissioners’ office and has been one of the best commissioners we have had.
LETTER: Holmquist for county commissioner
I have had the pleasure of knowing Pam Holmquist.
LETTER: Political riots show mess facing this country
Last night I turned to Fox News on the TV, and lo and behold there were a bunch of demonstrators/rioters pelting the police with rocks and waving the Mexican flag and getting away with it.
Wednesday, June 1

BASEBALL: Kalispell Lakers AA slide past Libby Loggers
Kalispell withstands Libby rally, wins 9-8
Minutes after the final out was recorded, the Kalispell Lakers were running silent sprints under the watchful eye of their coaches in the outfield grass.
TERRY COLUMN: Loggers making the cut in Class B
The first run through Class B seemed to be pretty successful for the Libby Loggers.
SOFTBALL: Glacier's Ali Williams headlines local all-state selections
Columbia Falls has three, Polson two named all-state in Northwest A
Glacier senior pitcher Ali Williams was named to the Western AA all-state softball team for the third straight season, capping a tremendous career on the north side of Kalispell.

Kalispell Lakers baseball
Kalispell Lakers' Spencer Pisk is tagged out at home by Libby pitcher Erik Lauer as Pisk tries to score from second base on a wild pitch in the bottom of the third inning at Griffin Field on Wednesday, June 1, 2016. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Walter Paul Weaver, 89

Juntunen

Law officers ask for help finding mom wanted in boy's death boy's death
The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office has turned to the public in an attempt to locate a mother wanted in connection with her 2-year-old son’s death in Evergreen last year.

Helena Flats 2.jpg
Helena Flats first-grader Sidney Ek plants seeds at the school's garden on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Marc Grandia Equestrian Clinic at Rebecca Farm
Kim Liddell, of Kalispell, on Eye of the storm, a thoroughbred, completes a jump at the Marc Grandia Clinic on Wednesday, June 1, at Rebecca Farm. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Faith Larson will graduate from Bigfork High School on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

'A Mermaid Tale from Under the Sea'
Oaklee Johnston plays a trumpet during a rehearsal of the Lakeside Dance Studio's production "A Mermaid Tale from Under the Sea."

Healthy career outlook for health care professionals with law skills

Blurry about cataracts? Here's what you need to know to have a clear understanding
Dead grizzly found near reservoir
Officials with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service are seeking information on a dead grizzly bear found on the west side of Hungry Horse Reservoir over the weekend.
Man denies fishing spear threat charge
A Columbia Falls man has denied using a fishing spear to threaten his father on April 20.
Whitefish man charged with dealing cocaine
A Whitefish man is facing felony charges after allegedly being caught with a quarter pound of cocaine on November 10, 2015.
Stalking suspect nabbed in Colorado
A Bigfork man entered general denials on Thursday to allegations that he broke terms of felony probation.

Guidance and hope for people living with the most-common age-related vision problem

A grim past but a bright future
LOCAL ROUNDUP: Libby museum opens Saturday
Libby’s Heritage Museum celebrates opening day Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with presentations and demonstrations, face painting and live music throughout the day.
Fundraiser to benefit lifesaving Lakeside unit
The stretch of U.S. 93 between Polson and Kalispell is scenic and carries heavy traffic through the rural area and its small communities such as Lakeside, Somers and Elmo.
Mineral County sheriff's workers on strike
Mineral County Commissioner Roman Zylawy said there’s a lot of false information being reported regarding a strike involving Mineral County deputies, dispatch and detention employees.

Summer party themes that sizzle

4 things millennials need to know to protect their financial future

Chris Christensen Jr., 78
Dr. Chris Christensen Jr., 78, of Kalispell, passed away May 27, 2016, at his home in Kalispell surrounded by his loved ones.
DAYBOOK, June 1

Helen Strom Blush Eglsaer, 95
Helen Strom Blush Eglsaer was born Jan. 2, 1921, to Alfred A. Strom and Mary (Smith) Strom in Whitefish. She graduated from Whitefish High School and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the University of Portland.

Jerry Lloyd Dressler, 74
Petty Officer 2nd Class Jerry Lloyd Dressler, 74, passed away on May 22, 2016, from natural causes.