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.

Our hats are off to all of them who have achieved this major milestone.

In particular, we would like to extend a special salute to those seniors who have had to overcome challenges en route to graduation.

This week we have published “Profiles in Perseverance” about students who have defied a host of obstacles — family tragedy, abuse and legal troubles, to name a few — and managed to turn things around and complete high school. There are more like them whose achievements in overcoming adversity are especially noteworthy.

You’ll also find a special section in today’s paper that highlights the accomplishments of those we are calling “The Best and the Brightest” of the local graduates.

Congratulations to all members of the Class of 2016.

Trail group prevails

Bicyclists and pedestrians should rejoice because the long-awaited path to Glacier National Park is becoming a reality quickly.

The critical link in the Gateway to Glacier Trail — 6.8 miles from Coram to West Glacier — will be built this summer, extending the existing bike path that stretches from Hungry Horse to Coram.

And that’s not all: Coming up next year are additional trail segments from Columbia Falls to Bad Rock Canyon and from the canyon to Hungry Horse. There’s one more element to the ambitious trail project, too: A welcome kiosk (built from pieces of the 1894 Old Steel Bridge near Kalispell) will be constructed along U.S. 2 in Hungry Horse.

All these (plus some secondary loop trails) add up to a major triumph for the nonprofit Gateway to Glacier Trail group that has been working six years to establish a pedestrian and bike trail linking the Flathead Valley and Glacier Park.

In a bit of understatement, one organizer described the trail-construction progress as “pretty exciting news.” It’s that and more, as the community effort involving fundraising efforts, valiant volunteer work and leveraging government grants will give people a priceless connection to the park.