Ellington

FOOTBALL ROUNDUP: Bigfork bolts by Malta; Eureka, Polson post wins

BIGFORK — Matt Farrier had touchdown runs of 1, 2, 5 and 17 yards and passed 31 yards to Anders Epperly for another as Bigfork pulled away in the second half for a 49-21 Class B nonconference football victory over Malta (2-3) on Friday night.

Whitefish boys edge Stillwater in soccer

WHITEFISH — Late goals by Ian Lacey and Cody Brandt gave Whitefish (4-6 overall) a 3-2 boys nonconference soccer victory over Stillwater Christian School on Friday afternoon.

Bigfork football

Bigfork receiver Randy Stultz jumps out of a tackle on the Vikings' first scoring drive against Malta on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier's Tinseth 12th at state AA golf

BILLINGS — Glacier senior McKenna Tinseth closed out her prep career by tying for 12th place at the Class AA state golf tournament on Friday at Lake Hills Golf Course.

State A golf: Whitefish girls, Polson boys sitting second after 18 holes

HAMILTON — The Whitefish girls and Polson boys are sitting in second place after Friday’s opening 18 holes at the Class A state golf tournament at Hamilton Golf Club.

Luke Ritzdorf

Glacier freshman Luke Ritzdorf is one of 30 finalists in a national science competition for the Towable Conductivity-Mapping System he created. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Wanted fugitive arrested in Kalispell

A Kalispell man who had escaped from Mineral County Jail last weekend was arrested early Friday morning in Kalispell.

Fire crews contain slash burn in Swan Valley

A slash-burning operation that burned out of control Wednesday in the Swan Valley has been contained, according to state forest officials, but motorists should expect smoke and reduced speed limits on a portion of Montana 83.

Susan McEwen.jpg

Susan McEwen, a nurse practitioner, medically evaluates, diagnose and treats Body Balance patients. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kalispell Middle School Resource Officer Jordan Venezio speaks with students during lunch at the school on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

'White pride' shirts prompt Polson protest

Polson School District has condemned the actions of some high school students who included racially charged messages on outfits worn as part of a school spirit day Thursday.

LETTER: What would Jesus do?

There was a time when Jesus and family went forth to be counted in the census. Were he here today, and it was Election Day, I know that he’d go forth and vote to keep our freedom from that of a socialist. —

LETTER: Refugees, accountability and Missoula

Recent headlines proclaim that the newly arrived refugees brought to Missoula by Soft Landing and the International Rescue Committee have no place to live. How can that be? Both organizations have had months to prepare. The IRC does this for a living and “selected” Missoula because it was an “ideal” place. Yet they bring a family of refugees from the other side of the world and they have no place to stay?

LETTER: A bad word is not as bad as a property crime

I would just like to happily respond to the previous person talking about the “Trump that b---h” sign. As a neighbor to this landowner and with children of my own, it comes down to a parenting issue if your child is saying bad words. Given the language that we see on TV, this is by far mild.

LETTER: Last chance to comment on forest plan

This month, the Flathead National Forest, which administers most of the public forest lands right around the Flathead Valley, is finalizing a blueprint for managing these lands for the next two decades. Reading the draft forest service plans is tough going. The result however will affect each person in the Flathead directly in the ways they can enjoy our neighboring lands, and also to the extent that the plans preserve the natural values that will attract visitors and new residents in the future. I personally support protecting the existing wild country in the Swan Range. We need to remind ourselves how rare and wonderful is the ability to go hiking completely alone in beautiful mountains that are literally minutes from town. We all care about our neighboring wild lands, and we have until Oct. 3rd to share with the Forest Service what is important to us. I would urge everyone to take a minute and do so at the Forest Service website: http://www.fs.usda.gov/ project/?project=46286 —

LETTER: A vote for Johnson is not a wasted vote

I hear it again and again when a discussion turns to the sordid question of the presidential election. “I can’t stand either Trump or Clinton,” so many people say, “but what are you going to do? You gotta pick one.”

LETTER: Able-bodied should pay for own activities

Janet Collins (in her Sept. 8 letter “Senior lives matter”) has a great point. The state, county or city streets and roads are built and maintained with gasoline and vehicle license taxes. These are from the people who use the streets and roads. When bike and walking paths/trails are built they are paid for by all of us, but used by only by able-bodied, who buy expensive bikes or expensive walking shoes.

OPINION: Flathead High is more than a building; it's home

My Aunt Mary (Monk) Lavin is 99 and 3/4 years young. She will be celebrating her 100th birthday on Dec. 7 of this year. She graduated from Flathead High School in 1935 and served as class secretary and member of the Marionettes. We also believe she is the oldest FHS graduate currently still living in the valley.

LETTER: Thanks for reminding me why Hillary is wrong choice

Thank you, Sen. Brown. You have reminded me why it so especially important to vote in this November general election.

LETTER: Montana needs Marsy's Law

It’s time that our criminal justice process be more responsive to victims. Today many of us are left feeling like we’re secondary to the process, and that has to change.

OPINION: Coping with invisible illnesses - 'I am you - and I'm still me'

My name is Emarie Qantaqua and I recently moved to Columbia Falls. Oct. 1 is Ostomy and Invisible Illness Awareness Day — and I wanted to introduce myself and others like myself.

LETTER: Gianforte for governor

I’m voting for Greg Gianforte for our next governor of Montana.

LETTER: Juras for justice

Kristen Juras is running for the Montana Supreme Court, and I support her wholeheartedly. I have known her since 1989, and worked closely with her as a practicing lawyer and as a law professor.

Kalispell Toyota acquires Valley Ford

Kalispell Toyota owner Gerrid Gandrud in the showroom on Friday morning, September 30, in Kalispell. Kalispell Toyota announced it has acquired the Valley Ford dealership in Evergreen. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Consejos sabios para disfrutar una merienda saludable

College Bound Cover

College Bound

Cómo crear nuevas tradiciones familiares viajando este otoño

Building new family traditions through travel this fall

School bond ballots due back Tuesday

Kalispell Public Schools is encouraging voters to mail ballots on bond issues by today in order to meet the Oct. 4 deadline.

Weekend Update

Betty Anne Bitney

Richard M. 'Rick' Collier, 66

Richard M. “Rick” Collier passed away unexpectedly on Aug. 8, 2016, of natural causes.

LETTER: Vote for Zac Perry in HD 3

Zac Perry has been an outstanding representative for House District 3, and those of us he represents deserve to have his continued dedication, passion, intelligence, work ethic and integrity working for us in the state Legislature.

County OKs $1.3 million jail expansion

A $1.3 million proposal from MC Builders to expand the Flathead County jail within the Justice Center won unanimous approval from commissioners on Wednesday.

Richard M. 'Rick' Collier

Daybook

Four-legged forest terrorist not too scary

Katrina B. 'Kitty' Kiger

ImagineIF Youth Services Staff

Project costs by the numbers

Elementary district

Births, published Sept. 30, 2016

EDITORIAL: Shuttle success story, with asterisk

More than 1.9 million visitors passed through Glacier National Park this summer, making June, July and August the busiest three-month stretch in the park’s history.

Katrina B. 'Kitty' Kiger, 77

Katrina B. “Kitty” Kiger, 77, of Kalispell passed away Tuesday, Sept. 27, 2016, surrounded by her loving family.

Community Briefs: ImagineIF Library earns youth literacy award

The Northwest Montana Reading Council presented ImagineIF Library Youth Services its Friend of Literacy Award at the 2016 Back to School Conference in Kalispell.

Poison High School

Polson Police and Flathead Tribal Police respond to Polson High School on Friday morning.

Zachary James Bergman

Zachary James Bergman

VOLLEYBALL: Glacier fends off Flathead

Nikki Krueger's 23 kills lead way for Wolfpack in 3-1 win at Flathead CROSSTOWN ROUND ONE

Nikki Krueger blasted 23 kills and Glacier overcome a boisterous crowd and a loss in the opening game to win the first crosstown match of the year, at Flathead, 20-25, 26-24, 25-20, 25-20 Thursday night.

State AA golf tourney preview

VIANO COLUMN: Winning the only thing? Hardly

No one wants to talk to me about losing.

FOOTBALL: Glacier goes back to work vs. Sentinel

Tonight’s game will be played at Washington-Grizzly Stadium

Last Friday was an unusually easy night for the Glacier football team.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Whitefish girls nip Wildkats; Glacier boys blast Big Sky

COLUMBIA FALLS — Haley Nicholson and Melissa Pollard scored second half goals to keep Whitefish atop the Northern A conference with a 2-1 girls soccer victory over Columbia Falls on Thursday afternoon at Flip Darling Field.

Flathead volleyball

Flathead hitter Allie Gagnon (25) celebrates after a kill during the first game against Glacier at Flathead on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Crosstown volleyball

Flathead hitter Allie Gagnon tips the ball past Glacier hitter Abi Fiske during the second game at Flathead on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier volleyball

Glacier hitter Abi Fiske goes for a kill during the first game against Flathead on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Columbia Falls woman denies alleged Ponzi scheme

A Columbia Falls woman has denied six felony counts accusing her of committing a $1.5 million Ponzi scheme and mishandling funds she was entrusted with for a disabled person. 

Youth charged in Kalispell vandalism spree

A youth has been charged with one felony and one misdemeanor for allegedly vandalizing more than 20 cars, Bethel Baptist Church, Elrod School and Legends Stadium in Kalispell on May 31.

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Three-year-old Evelyn Anderson runs through a pile of leaves as her sister Elinor Anderson, 8, dumps leaves on her at their home in Kalispell on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Catherine Finberg sits in the Flathead County Courthouse during her arraignment for investment fraud on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

Melissa Hartman running for Senate District 3

Portrait of Melissa Hartman outside her home in Whitefish on Thursday morning, September 29. Hartman is runnin for Senate District 3. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

2016 Kalispell College Fair

Crystal McCoy and Jacquelin Kurle, both seniors at Libby Middle/High School listen to information from the representative of Eastern Washington University at the Kalispell College Fair on Thursday, September 29, at Flathead High School. Over 80 reps from universities, colleges, tech schools, vocational schools, and military academies were on site to share information with interested students. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Prescribed burns, lingering wildfire bring hazy skies

Prescribed burns on public forestlands and some smoke activity from the Copper King Fire east of Thompson Falls are likely responsible for the hazy skies in the Flathead Valley over the past couple days.

LETTER: Trump, Miele spell trouble

I get The Daily Inter Lake for three reasons: I like the sports early, the crossword puzzle, and Andy Capp in the comics. I DON’T get the paper to read Frank Miele’s inane columns.

LETTER: Stephens wrong; Brown was right

Stan Stephens was a one-term governor for good reason; as now, he had little to offer then.

LETTER: Stephens right; let's elect Trump

The Sept. 19 letter from our former governor, Stan Stephens, regarding our presidential hopefuls was right on target.

OPINION: Let's look past the sentiment and see why Trump is best

I respect Mr. Todd Cardin’s family’s contributions to the United States but still can’t fathom the point of his op-ed piece. I too am a veteran and retired as a major in the U.S. Army. I served 20 years to an ungrateful nation. I, like Congressman Zinke, served in special operations. I too will vote for the Donald. I am not wild about the choice.

LETTER: Trump gives reader nightmares

I have seen — how many? — presidents come and go. I recall Franklin D. Roosevelt especially because in the extremely conservative county where I grew up, people hated FDR. I absorbed the local attitude. So, when Roosevelt’s motorcade came through town, I actually turned my back on him. He saw me, too, and his smile faded for a moment.

LETTER: Zinke unclear on LWCF funding

The race is on! Juneau vs. Zinke! The tradition of campaigning and competing for the peoples’ vote is alive and well in Montana. Montanans exhibit an independent mind in statewide races, selecting both Democrats and Republicans consistently.

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Debunking one of the biggest misconceptions about menopause

TWIF 092916 Cover

Un cabello fabuloso en solo 4 pasos sencillos

Fabulous fall hair in 4 simple steps

Meet the world's first self-installing car seat - giving parents peace of mind every ride. [Video]

Daybook

This Week in the Flathead | Sept. 29 - Oct. 5

Whitefish celebrates new footbridge at Oct. 4 grand opening

The city of Whitefish invites the public to the grand opening of the Skye Park Bridge at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4.

Richard Ellman

Fall is a good time to get ready for ice fishing

I have taken up my bow again after a 12-year hiatus and have been really enjoying this fall weather. Is there anything better than chasing rutting elk in Montana in September? Maybe chasing fish on the hardwater? In fact, looking at next week’s forecast I have to ask: can ice fishing season be too far away?

Archer likely takes record elk

A Montana hunter appears to have bagged the largest American elk in state history earlier this month, and is also likely to take the international all-time record for archery elk hunting.

Big elk

Outdoor Happenings

Richard M. Ellman, 57

Rick “went home to be with the Lord” on Sept. 15, 2016, after having surgery for lung cancer, in Salt Lake City at the George E. Wahlen VA Hospital.

Eureka man denies alleged road-rage shooting

A Eureka man pleaded not guilty Sept. 22 to felony assault with a weapon.

Fall open burn season begins Saturday

Fall open burning season for Flathead County and northern Lake County begins Saturday, Oct. 1 and extends through Nov. 30.

Sleepy woman wakens with weapons

Mack Days tournament underway

The Fall Mack Days fishing tournament kicked off on Flathead Lake last weekend, with familiar faces already moving into the top of the angler rankings.

EDITORIAL: Vote to support local schools

If you live in one or both of the Kalispell school districts, you received a mail ballot several weeks ago.

Man denies drug-fueled crime spree

A Columbia Falls man denied committing five felonies and one misdemeanor in an allegedly drug-fueled crime spree that ended in a police chase.

Fritz Corn Maze celebrates 10 years

Fall fun

Fall is a season for celebration and rest. As the days get shorter and colder, communities come together to share the bounty of the harvest and give thanks for family.

Catherine Finberg

Catherine Finberg at the Flathead County Courthouse during her arraignment for investment fraud on Thursday, Sept. 29. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

Vandalism

Vandalism was discovered at the Bethel Baptist Church and Legends Stadium in Kalispell on May 31, 2016.

WRESTLING: Flathead's Thompson returns

Four-time state champion coach returns to lead Braves BACK TO THE MAT

Teams with state championship aspirations that lose their head coach just weeks before the beginning of the season have to scramble, their pool of possible candidates severely limited and the usually exhaustive vetting process expedited by necessity.

TERRY COLUMN: Wildcats chasing Dillon, but can they catch up?

Columbia Falls will host the biggest game of the early football season on Friday night.

STATE GOLF: Glacier, Flathead to tee it up in Billings

Glacier had the individual champion — Tommy Mann — and runner-up — Teigan Avery — at the Class AA state golf tournament in Helena last year.

VOLLEYBALL: Flathead, Glacier tangle Thursday

Glacier heads to enemy territory looking for bounce-back win

There will be bigger, more important matches later in the year — and even a rematch next month — but there is nothing quite like tonight, when Glacier treks south to the old barn on 4th Avenue West.

STATE GOLF: Whitefish girls aim for three-peat in Class A

The Whitefish girls have their sights set on winning a third-straight Class A state championship, and had an early look at what it may take last week.

RODEO: Matt Triplett picks up first win of season

Columbia Fall bull rider takes third event after returning from shoulder injury

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Columbia Falls bull rider Matt Triplett went 2-for-2 at the Professional Bull Riders AutoZone Challenge BlueDEF Tour event on Tuesday to win his first event of the season in only his third stop after recovering from a shoulder injury earlier in the year.

Conservancy seeks $1.7M in funding for 43 projects

The fundraising arm of Glacier National Park has released its funding priorities for next season, focusing on research, preservation and education projects that highlight the park’s position as a laboratory for the effects of climate change.

Park campgrounds catering to cyclists

Visitation to the Flathead Valley and Glacier National Park has broken records by nearly every available metric this summer, and state officials say there’s been a corresponding uptick in long-distance bicyclists pedaling through the Crown of the Continent.

Community School program: manufacturing day event

Cody Cusker checks out a set of actions made by Defiance Machine on the Community School program manufacturing day tour on Wednesday, September 28, in Columbia Falls. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Local manufacturers host high school tours

Twenty students from Flathead High School’s new Community School program visited local manufacturing companies Wednesday to learn about the “real world” outside the classroom.

Camp sites for cyclists

Camp sites have been created specifically for campers traveling by bicycle at Whitefish Lake State Park. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Births, published Sept. 29, 2016

Montana Life: Potato Farming

Photo fo workers courtesy of Steve Streich.

Finding balance: 3 approaches for managing ADHD behaviors in children

FVCC enrollment trends

Prepare your home for winter with these smart home improvement projects

Oktoberfest 2016

4 questions smart homeowners must ask remodelers

Sex offender asks court to overturn drug conviction

A sex offender has asked the Montana Supreme Court to strike down a misdemeanor drug conviction, claiming he was illegally searched and detained.

Daybook

Man worries staff at school office

Darrell Dean Amundson Sr.

Upcoming Events

Isabel Larsen, 83

Isabel Larsen, 83, passed away Aug. 29, 2016, in Kalispell.

Richard 'Dick' Lundstrom

Isabel Larsen

Ragnhild 'Roddy' Vassallo Smith

Dream receives $50k for veterans outreach

An adaptive sport nonprofit in Whitefish has received a $50,000 grant from the Department of Veterans Affairs that could nearly triple its outreach to veterans physically or mentally altered by war.

Ski resort No. 11 in reader survey

A combination of affordable pricing and superior customer service has Whitefish Mountain Resort ranked No. 11 overall in Ski magazine’s annual resort guide for 2016-17.

Darrell Dean Amundson Sr., 66

Darrell Dean Amundson Sr., 66, passed away Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2016.

Woman denies driving drunk with children in vehicle

A Columbia Falls woman has denied driving drunk and crashing her car with two young children in the vehicle.

Pilot attempts polar circumnavigation of Earth

From the cockpit of the single-engine plane, Giuseppe Caltabiano looked out into a bright ocean filled with ice. The onboard compass began to drift, and he knew he had made it to the North Pole.

Ragnhild 'Roddy' Vassallo Smith, 87

Ms. Ragnhild “Roddy” Vassallo Smith, daughter of the late Ragnhild Nielsen and Andrew Vassallo died on Sept. 24, 2016, in Kalispell, with her family by her side.

Richard 'Dick' Lundstrom, 70

Richard “Dick” Lundstrom, 70, of Columbia Falls, passed away Sept. 20, 2016, at the Montana Veterans Home.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Stillwater wins twice; Flathead boys tie league-leaders

A big second half lifted Stillwater Christian to a dominant victory over visiting Bonners Ferry in a nonconference soccer match on Tuesday afternoon.

VOLLEYBALL: No. 4 Glacier blown out by No. 1 Sentinel

Spartans coast to sweep at Glacier

Fourth-ranked Glacier surrendered 20 of the match’s first 26 points and was swept at home by top-ranked and undefeated Missoula Sentinel, 25-9, 25-18, 25-16 Tuesday night in a meeting of the top two teams in the Western AA conference.

VOLLEYBALL ROUNDUP: Blue Hawks edge Libby; Stillwater beats Flathead JV

LIBBY — Libby fought back from a set down twice, but couldn’t hold the momentum in a five-set District 7B volleyball loss to Thompson Falls.

Enrollment up at Flathead Valley Community College

Students walk between classes at Flathead Valley Community College on Tuesday morning, September 27. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

FVCC fall enrollment trending up

As Montana universities and colleges continue to collect enrollment numbers this month, Flathead Valley Community College announced it has seen its first steady increase in overall students since 2010.

Fifth district judge pitched for Flathead County

Dramatic increases in child abuse and criminal cases are at the heart of a Montana Judicial Branch proposal to add a fifth judge to the 11th Judicial District that serves Flathead County.

High School Football Rankings, Standings

Stillwater Christian soccer

Stillwater Christian junior Jorgen Linborg fights off a Bonners Ferry defender for a ball during the second half of the Cougars' 3-1 victory at home on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Pam Holmquist

Portrait of Flathead County Commissioner Pamela Holmquist in downtown Kalispell on Tuesday morning, September 27. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

CFAC Superfund meeting planned Thursday

The Environmental Protection Agency on Thursday night will host a meeting to update local residents about the federal agency’s recent decision to list a portion of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. property as a Superfund site.

4 Smart Reasons to Upgrade Your Home Security System

6 unconventional jobs you can get with an IT or business degree

Fall Fun

Colton Neel, 3, points to a scarecrow while walking through Fritz Corn Maze on Saturday, Sept., 24, 2016.

LETTER: Sign isn't going anywhere, says property owner

Regarding the sign “Trump that b--ch”: It was put up after Hillary came out and said that 50 percent of Trump supporters are deplorable.

LETTER: Please take down offensive sign

What a delightful moment it must have been for my daughter, as she was driving along U.S. 93, to have her twin 10-year-olds point out to her the “Trump That B--ch” sign on the side of the road.

OPINION: Flub allows 858 to become citizens

Given the concerns about immigration and national security, you might expect the federal government to have the naturalization process locked down tight. Nope. It turns out the process is about as reliable as airport security screening.

LETTER: Thanks to hikers for courtesy in returning lost GPS unit

Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting the Jewel Basin on a six-day, five-night backpack trip. Unfortunately, on the first day I lost my GPS. I didn’t recognize this until much later in the day, but I figured it fell out of my pocket at a common resting place near the Divide.

LETTER: Vote for Pam Holmquist for commissioner

Pam Holmquist has done a good job of protecting our property rights.

OPINION: 'Favors' to blacks

Back in the 1960s, as large numbers of black students were entering a certain Ivy League university for the first time, someone asked a chemistry professor — off the record — what his response to them was. He said, “I give them all A’s and B’s. To hell with them.”

LETTER: Forum revealed Trump shares traits with Hitler

Hopefully many of you watched the Commander in Chief Forum on NBC Sept. 7 to become better informed about the candidates for president of the United States.

4 Techy Tips For The Ultimate Fall Camping Experience

4 great ways to create an outdoor living space

Top pick for Whitefish manager job rejects offers

The city of Whitefish’s top choice to replace retiring Chuck Stearns as city manager has turned down the job after several days of negotiations.

What You Should Know About Psoriatic Arthritis

Fall in love with your numbers this fall

Forest plan comment deadline approaching

A major public review period for the Flathead National Forest’s first guiding document in 30 years is fast approaching, with comments due next Monday.

Decoration looks a little too real

An early Halloween decoration prompted a visit from the

Glacier begins closing some services for winter season

The busy summer season is winding to a close in Glacier National Park, with the Cut Bank entrance shut down as of Monday and other services scheduled to follow suit.

Doris E. McFadden, 93

Doris E. McFadden, 93, passed away on Thursday, Sept. 22, 2016. in Columbia Falls.

Former school leader No. 2 on state board

Former Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Darlene Schottle recently was named vice chairwoman of the Montana Board of Public Education.

Felon involved in $100,000 theft now facing drug charges

A man is accused of felony drug distribution after he was given a second chance by Flathead District Court Judge Ted Lympus for participating in a 2009 theft of a safe containing upwards of $100,000 in cash and gold coins. 

Man admits threatening people with weapon

A Kalispell man has admitted threatening other people with a gun on July 6.

Man accused of driving drunk with child, hitting man

A man has been charged with misdemeanor assault and felony criminal child endangerment after he allegedly punched a man in a Kalispell store and drunkenly fled the scene with a child in the vehicle. 

Program connects community with students in need

Kalispell Public Schools is now one of 18 districts in Montana served by My Student in Need. 

Fall Forage

A deer forages for lunch near McGarry’s in Whitefish on Monday afternoon, amidst the fall colors. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier closes Cut Bank Road for season

Boat cruises and horseback rides also finished for summer

The busy season is winding to a close in Glacier National Park, with the Cut Bank entrance shut down as of Monday and other services scheduled to follow suit.

Council sponsors candidate forums

Kalispell City Council will host two televised candidate forums for this year’s general election.

DIL 091816 Cover

Fall Car Care Cover

Grizzly bears captured in Eureka, Coram

A pair of grizzly bears were relocated from the Coram and Eureka areas to the North Fork drainage last week.

Campaign 2016 Debates

A cameraman is silhouetted against an an American flag during preparations for the presidential debate at Hofstra University in Hempstead, NY, Sunday, Sept. 25, 2016. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer)

Banished sex offender headed to prison

A sex offender who was banished from Flathead County earlier this year is now headed to Montana State Prison after he was found with pornography on his cellphone.

Debate Night: Clinton, Trump set for high-stakes showdown

Woman featured on Norwegian TV show

Back to the motherland

A 28-year-old Montana native with strong family ties to the Flathead Valley got in touch with her Norwegian heritage in a big way as part of the reality TV cast for the popular “Alt for Norge” show.

Center's director focuses on outreach

‘I know we’re saving lives here’

Sexual health education can a difficult topic to introduce to rural communities, but one woman at Salish and Kootenai College is working to make it a common conversation throughout the Flathead Valley.

Highway Patrol seeking 10 new troopers

The Montana Highway Patrol is accepting applications for 10 new troopers between now and mid-October. Training begins in April 2017.

Whitefish in a 'beary' sticky situation

Residents called the

Patrick Barrera, 89

Patrick Barrera, 89, “went to be with the Lord” on Sept. 14, 2016, at The Springs in Whitefish after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease.

Audubon to hear about Bison Range plan Sept. 29

Mission Mountain Audubon will host a presentation Thursday, Sept. 29, in Polson on the proposed return of the National Bison Range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes

Monday Profile: Niki Graham

Niki Graham, director for the Salish Kootenai College Center for Prevention and Wellness, has been with the program since 2004, working to increase access to health education throughout Montana. 

Back to the motherland

Kelsey Iverson, whose grandmother and other relatives live in the Flathead Valley, tears up as she receives a photograph of her Norwegian relatives during the filming of the "Alt Norway" reality television show. 

LETTER: Good schools for good communities

As parents and grandparents of children who have received their elementary and high-school education through the Kalispell school system, we appreciate the quality instruction they received and are grateful for the school buildings that they attended.

LETTER: Vote yes for bonds

Flathead Valley voters, I want to encourage you to vote yes for both the elementary and high school bonds.

DIL 092516

LETTER: Fern for HD5

Dave Fern is uniquely qualified to be our State House District 5 representative.

LETTER: Are we better than this?

I would like to offer comment on the rabbit hole of circular thinking, sexism, xenophobia, and homophobia that Mr. Tim Adams took us down in his Aug. 28 retort of my Aug. 21 open letter to Ryan Zinke regarding his endorsement of Donald Trump.

LETTER: Cartoon offensive

I am deeply offended by the cartoon displayed on the editorial page on Sept. 20, apparently depicting “Arabs” discussing Mayor DeBlasio’s terminating NYPD’s Surveillance Program of Radical Muslims.

Construction of new Fuel Fitness

Crews constructing what will be a new Fuel Fitness in west Kalispell on Tuesday afternoon, September 20. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Inter Lake newsroom team changes

The Daily Inter Lake’s newsroom management team is undergoing a major transition for the first time in many years.

Flathead youths find faith, fun

A group of 40 young pilgrims from Montana journeyed to Krakow, Poland, recently for World Youth Day. What they found in that foreign land went well beyond deepening their faith and having fun.

State's first licensed day care marks 50 years

Fifty years ago the Flathead Valley workforce was changing.

Man sentenced for stealing vehicle, then torching it in California

A man has received a suspended sentence for stealing a vehicle in March from an Evergreen automotive dealership, taking it to California and burning it.

Smith Memorial Day Care Center

Noah Ployhar swings monkey bar handles during recess at the Smith Memorial Daycare on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

OPINION: What happened to car museum in Bigfork? Here's the story

At 10:26 p.m. on the evening of Friday, Jan. 22, I received a call from my security. There was broken glass and an open door alarm at my car museum in Bigfork.

Fuel Fitness coming to Kalispell

A $1.7 million health club is under construction on U.S. 2 West in Kalispell near the Gateway Community Center.

Minneapolis firm to acquire Polson bank

Veritec Inc. of Minnesota is planning to acquire Flathead Bancorporation Inc., the majority owner of First Citizens Bank of Polson.

Lawsuit over skier's death settled

Whitefish Mountain Resort has settled a federal lawsuit involving the 2010 death of a skier who fell into a tree well.

Former supervisor admits crime involving resident of Flathead group home

A Kalispell woman admitted Thursday to inappropriate conduct involving a 29-year-old resident of a group home.

COLUMN: Unsung leader of newsroom meets his last deadline

On Friday we bid a fond farewell to Inter Lake Assistant Managing Editor Scott Crandell, who headed out of the newsroom and into retirement after 26 years here.

Daybook

TODAY

EDITORIAL: Elementary school bond is crucial

There are 220 reasons for voters to support Kalispell Public Schools’ elementary-school bond request.

School Calendar

— Boys and girls ages 6-15 are invited to participate in the NFL Punt, Pass, Kick competition slated from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. today at the Kalispell Youth Sports Complex. Winners of the free football skills competition will advance to a sectional competition. A copy of the child’s birth certificate is required to participate. For more information call 758-7848.

Jailbird becomes victim of crime

Religion Briefs

Spokane Unitarian pastor visits Flathead church

Otter rescue, 2005

ALERT flight paramedic Jerry Anderson cradles Johan Otter as the medical helicopter brings the bear mauling victim to a landing zone at Many Glacier in August 2005. The ordeal of Otter and his daughter will be the subject of an ABC television show on Saturday. (George Ostrom file photo/Special to the Inter Lake)

West Shore State Park funding issue resolution in works

The recent funding fiasco surrounding West Shore State Park’s 1966 acquisition on Flathead Lake just got a lot easier, according to state officials.

Jenna and Johan Otter

Jenna Otter and father Johan Otter pose at Iceberg Lake in Glacier National Park, Calif., in September. Illustrates GRIZZLY-HIKERS (category a) by Thomas Curwen (c) 2008, Los Angeles Times. Moved Saturday, Nov. 22, 2008. (MUST CREDIT: Los Angeles Times photo by Thomas Curwen.)

OPINION: Reasons why a Republican should vote for Trump after all

I am writing in response to Bob Brown’s astonishing and troubling announcement that he will be voting for Hillary.

Millspaugh

OPINON: Valley debates recent endorsement

What about Bob?

Fraser

Homer Millspaugh, 75

Homer Millspaugh passed away Sept. 20, 2016, at Harborview Hospital in Seattle, after falling and sustaining significant brain injuries on Sept. 15. He had many health challenges, especially the last few years, coping with Parkinson’s disease and a severe hearing loss.

Births, published Sept. 25, 2016

Daniel Albert Fraser, 59

Daniel Albert Fraser was 59 years young when he passed away Sept. 14, 2016, at 6:28 p.m. at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, after suffering a work-related accident.

James Logan 'Jim' Hurst II, 98

James Logan “Jim” Hurst II passed away in Palm Desert, California, on Sept. 12, 2016.

Hurst

What happened to the car museum in Bigfork?

At 10:26 p.m. on the evening of Friday, Jan. 22, I received a call from my security. There was broken glass and an open door alarm at my car museum in Bigfork.

SOCCER: Polson, Whitefish settle for split

Pirates boys, Bulldogs girls notch matching 1-0 wins

WHITEFISH — Haley Nicholson blasted home her 20th goal of the season in the 58th minute to send Whitefish’s girls into sole possession of first place in the Northern A conference, but Polson’s boys spoiled the second half of the Bulldogs’ homecoming soccer doubleheader with an identical 1-0 win on Saturday evening at Memorial Field.

Libby edges Eureka in 7B volleyball play

EUREKA — It was a battle, but Libby managed to emerge with a hard-fought 25-18, 16-25, 25-18, 27-25 District 7B volleyball victory over Lincoln County rival Eureka on Saturday.

Soccer: Goals galore for C-Falls' Gedlaman, Callender, Stephens

COLUMBIA FALLS — It was the Hannah-Hannah show for the Columbia Falls girls while Logan Stephens came through with a spectacular scoring performance for the Columbia Falls boys on Saturday in Northern A soccer action at Flip Darling Field versus Libby.

Cross Country: Glacier's Hill fades late at Mountain West Classic

MISSOULA — Glacier standout distance runner Annie Hill couldn’t repeat as the Mountain West Classic cross country champion for the third straight season, finishing in 12th place at the University of Montana Golf Course after pulling up in the last mile with an apparent injury.

Whitefish girls win Western A golf

HAMILTON — The Whitefish girls golf team placed all four scoring finishers in the top 12 at the Western A divisional tournament, easily capturing the team title at Hamilton Golf Course on Saturday.

It's a life-changing moment

Survivor pens book about 2005 brush with death in Glacier Park

Woman seriously hurt in crash

A 30-year-old Bigfork woman was seriously injured Thursday night in a crash just before 9 p.m. on Somers Road. According to Montana Highway Patrol Trooper David Mills the woman was traveling southbound when she failed to negotiate a curve. The vehicle left the roadway and hit a gate for a waterfowl production area. The gate was uprooted. The vehicle then hit a guy-wire to a power pole, which caused the vehicle to roll.

COLUMN: Obama's terror talk [amplified & expanded]

INTRODUCTION: Last weekend, the United States suffered through yet another terrorist attack — wait, two terrorist attacks — by an enemy to be named later... well, to be named by someone other than the president of the United States.

Della Marie (Miller) Wipplinger, 92

Della Marie (Miller) Wipplinger, 92, was born Feb. 11, 1924, in Columbus, North Dakota. She was the youngest of three children born to William Anthony Miller and Ruth Ann (Prince) Miller. The family farmed in Opheim, until her father’s health forced a move in 1932. The Millers bought a farm north of Charlo where Della first attended school. Della graduated from Dixon High School in 1941 and went to work for the seed house in Charlo.

WATER COOLER: Oktoberfest features business night

Area Chamber of Commerce organizations are sponsoring a Bavarian Business Night on Thursday, Oct. 6, during the Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish. Bring your Flathead Valley business card and get in free from 5 to 7 p.m. that evening. There will be business-versus-business contests and prizes.

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Glacier freshman Luke Ritzdorf is one of 30 finalists in a national science competition for the Towable Conductivity-Mapping System he created. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flathead Force striker Ryder Elliot centers the ball after faking out a Sandpoint defender during a U12 game of the Tamarack Fall Classic at the Kidsports Complex on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flathead Force's Finley Shumacher passes the ball as a Bozeman defender attempts to steal it during a U14 game of the Tamarack Fall Classic at the Kidsports Complex on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Scarywood Haunted Nights

Fall Car Care

Bell a historic link for Presbyterian church

The cracked church bell at First Presbyterian Church hasn’t rung in 120 years, but it remains a silent sentinel for a congregation that has been a part of Kalispell’s history since the late 1800s.

Glacier shuttle carries record

Glacier National Park’s shuttle system keeps getting more popular.

First Presbyterian bell

The bell in front of the First Presbyterian Church on Main Street in Kalispell. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Bloody scene not caused by crime

Daybook

TODAY

Landis Fielding Vance

Landis Fielden Vance, 67

Landis Fielden Vance, 67, died peacefully Sept. 17, 2016, in Kalispell.

Della Marie (Miller) Wipplinger

Scarywood Haunted Nights: The stuff of nightmares

Silverwood transformed into dark, twisted place

Ernie Olson’s job is frightening. The North Idaho man jumps out of the bushes with a roaring chainsaw and chases groups of teenagers and adults screaming into the night.

FOOTBALL: Bozeman holds off Flathead

Braves head into bye week at 1-4

The on-paper mismatch never actually materialized, but that may have only made the result more painful.

FOOTBALL ROUNDUP: Eureka, Bigfork collect District 7B wins

LIBBY — Cannan Smith had touchdown runs of 4, 2 and 38 yards and Jacob Nowakowski returned a kickoff 82 yards for another score as Eureka blew by Libby 67-6 in a District 7B football contest on Friday night.

SOCCER: Stillwater stifles Helena Christian

Lindborg scores hat trick to lead Cougars to 5-2 win

HELENA — Stillwater Christian scored five straight goals to pull away from Helena Christian with a 5-2 win in an MCAA Western Conference soccer match on Friday night.

New West Health Services to close

Due to financial struggles, New West Health Services announced Friday it’s stepping back from offering Medicare Advantage plans and, as a result, closing its doors at the end of the year. That will leave 33 employees in Kalispell and 84 statewide without a job, and thousands in need of finding new health insurance. 

Flathead football

Flathead defender Trae Vasquez (right) holds Bozeman's Logan Kleinhans as Tucker Nadeau tries to strip the ball during the first quarter. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Accounts frozen in alleged Ponzi scheme

Flathead District Judge Robert Allison has frozen the bank accounts of a Bigfork man who state authorities believe may have executed an illegal investment Ponzi scheme worth $2.7 million.

Moore

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Flathead senior Clay Skonord cheers as he drives the Bravemobile during the Flathead Homecoming parade on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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The Flathead Bravettes cross country team cheers as they run on Main Street during the Flathead Homecoming Parade on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Lauren Gustafson, left, and Brooke Samson walk push their kids Beau Sampson, left, and Gerald Gustafson during the Flathead Homecoming Parade. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Canvasing for the School Bond

Courtenay and Nathan Sprunger spent Wednesday evening, September 21, canvasing their lower valley neighborhood on horseback to talk with residents about supporting the vote in favor of the school bond. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Changes in the Newsroom

Matt Baldwin. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Rainbow over Whitefish

A rainbow spreads over Whitefish on Friday morning, September 23. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kalispell Middle School eighth-graders Jackson DeMars, left, and Syrrus Robinson look at Kyrie Kensey's photo of their fake wounds before the pediactric mass casualty exercise at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kalispell Middle School eighth-grader Orisae Roa sits as Creston Fire's Louise Tidwell applies paint to his fake neck laceration before the pediatric mass casualty exercise at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Creston Fire's Louise Tidwell applies paint to a fake hand laceration before the pediatric mass casualty exercise before at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Bridget Ployhar glues a leaf to her tree at the Smith Memorial Daycare on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A newspaper clipping from when the Smith Memorial Daycare opened in 1966. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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A photo of Mrs. Earl Fraleigh helping Jimmy Best put on his boots is in a scrapbook at the Smith Memorial Daycare. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Smith Memorial Daycare's Pam Ridenour helps Gage Bebee, left, and Adalynn Barrow paint a tree at the daycare on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Noah Ployhar swings monkey bar handles during recess at the Smith Memorial Daycare on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Arden Saisbury glues an Apple Jack on his letter "A" during an activity at the Smith Memorial Daycare on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Smith Memorial Daycare's Diane Kraemer helps Brody Elletson cut out a letter "A" at the daycare on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Flathead's Becca Knutson drives the ball on the second hole of Village Greens Golf Course during the Crosstown Cup on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Glacier's A.J. Grande watches his tee shot on the fourth hole of Village Greens during the Crosstown Cup on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Smith Memorial Daycare Director Tammy Braseth sits with Landon Brown during recess at the daycare on Wednesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Cashton Fields starts the day by saying the Pledge of Allegiance on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

LETTER: Vote yes for high-school bond

Vote “Yes” for the Kalispell high-school bond by Oct. 4.

LETTER: Protect freedom by voting Trump

The mere existence of the freedoms of religion, education, ownership of guns, opportunity to own businesses, and having a say in the raising of our children is at stake with this election.

LETTER: Tired of politics as usual? Vote Billi

Chet Billi is running to represent Montana House District 5. As Chet’s neighbor, former employer and friend, I feel like I know him well enough to vouch for his character and sincerity.

OPINION: Commissioners need to speak up for the people

I attended the Flathead County commissioners’ public hearing on the expansion of the Egan Slough Zoning District. The overwhelming number of citizens present at the hearing supported the expansion of the zoning district.

LETTER: How to view property rights

Our county commissioners consider themselves champions of property rights. As an economist, I consider myself to be a somewhat broader-minded expert on the subject.

Dock plan shelved for Wild Horse Island

Montana State Parks is postponing a plan to construct a public-access dock on Flathead Lake’s Wild Horse Island, citing concerns that the project would create negative impacts to private property and wildlife.

Upcoming events

Weight-loss program marks fifth anniversary

Weekend Update

Library fundraiser

A brotherly dispute over alleged theft

Daybook

TODAY

Football legend makes healthy living a priority

Ovid 'Ray' Sindon

Ovid Rene' 'Ray' Sindon, 81

Ovid Rene’ “Ray” Sindon, 81, passed away at his home on Sept. 18, 2016.

VIANO COLUMN: Standing for discomfort

I’ve been resisting writing this column for weeks.

Anthem protest

San Francisco 49ers' Colin Kaepernick (7) and Eric Reid (35) kneel during the national anthem before a game against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte, N.C., Sunday, Sept. 18, 2016. (AP Photo/Mike McCarn)

FOOTBALL: Homecoming no treat for Flathead

Braves to face defending state champs tonight

Homecoming is falling at just the right moment for the Flathead Braves.

Fight Force promotions

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Glacier boys upset first-place Hellgate; Braves roll Big Sky

The Glacier boys soccer team scored four second-half goals to upset previously unbeaten Missoula Hellgate 5-4 at home in a Western AA conference match on Thursday.

MMA: Two professional bouts highlight Kalispell Kombat

A mixed martial arts card loaded with Kalispell’s top talent will be on display Saturday evening in Kalispell Kombat at Majestic Valley Arena.

VOLLEYBALL ROUNDUP: Flathead spills Hellgate in marathon; Glacier sweeps Big Sky

Flathead pulled through in a wild five-set Western AA volleyball match Thursday evening to slip past Missoula Hellgate 22-25, 24-26, 25-21, 25-22, 15-10 at Flathead High school.

Elrod gym

View of the gym at Elrod Elementary. The walls are lined with tables that fold up because the gym serves multiple duties as activities room, gym and lunchroom. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Elrod stage

Glenda Armstrong pulls back the dirty curtain that used to be used for stage productions at Elrod Elementary on Wednesday afternoon, September 14. The space behind the curtain was walled in to create a narrow storage area and the stage became the music room. The wall was necessary because the stage faces the gym and the noise between the two competing classes would have made hearing teachers instructions extremely difficult. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Elrod commons area

If the bond goes through one of the changes to Elrod would be with this classroom space having its wall taken out and the entire area transformed into a commons area. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Elrod music room

The music room at Elrod has taken over the stage to give students a space for music class, but has eliminated the area for performances. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

New gym would open up opportunities

BOND VOTE: Elrod Elementary

TWIF 092216 Cover

TWIF 092216

Students get in the act

Kalispell Middle School eighth-graders Jackson DeMars, left, and Syrrus Robinson look at Kyrie Kensey's photo of their fake wounds before the pediactric mass casualty exercise at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Mock bus crash tests emergency system

A test of the valley’s readiness for a mass emergency involving children unfolded Thursday morning as nurses applied fake blood and injury simulations to roughly 20 students in the Kalispell Regional Medical Center Emergency Department.

LETTER: Vote no until economy better

What is wrong with this picture?  

LETTER: Spend money so schools keep pace with growth

Kalispell MUST pass the upcoming school bonds. Full disclosure: I’m a teacher. But I’m also the parent of twin fifth-graders at Hedges Elementary whose educations I care deeply about.

LETTER: A different idea proposed for Kalispell schools

One part of this bond is to build an elementary school on Airport Road. Why would you build near a sewer plant? You’re overcrowded, as is the neighborhood of Flathead High School!

LETTER: Better schools now will mean better jobs later

Kalispell is going great places, and we need to make sure we have what it takes as a community for that to continue. There are many things we can do to build our community. We need infrastructure, economic development, and a well-paid workforce.

EDITORIAL: Cooking school spices up weekend

The annual Taste of Home Cooking School is one of the most popular events sponsored by the Daily Inter Lake, and this year’s event has moved to the weekend for your convenience.

OPINION: Gov. Bullock doesn't get it on environment

I am writing this to communicate with Gov. Steve Bullock. He is not inclined to reply to my e-mails to him, other than an occasional letter on the governor’s official stationery … perhaps written by his staff. He does seem to personally reply to my op-eds about him in newspapers though.

LETTER: Vo-ag center needs your support

As a believer in the importance of a quality public education system as a cornerstone of a strong community, I was pleased to see the H.E. Robinson Agriculture Education Center receive significant funds in the high school bond measure — some $4 million.

Judge says Dockstader bridge must be removed

A Flathead district judge on Monday voided Flathead County’s permit for a 540-foot bridge connecting Flathead Lake’s North Shore to Dockstader Island and ordered its removal.

Travel tips to help introverts enjoy every journey

Conserve energy and save money this fall by weatherizing your home with these easy tips

Take bridge down, district judge rules

A district judge has voided Flathead County’s permit for a 540-foot-long bridge connecting Flathead Lake’s North Shore to Dockstader Island and ordered that the bridge be removed.

Sorry, you did make it into blotter

A person who called

Debunking bulk buying myths: The truth that makes 'cents' this season

Births, published Sept. 22, 2016

This Week in the Flathead | Sept. 22-28

Whitefish celebrates the season with Oktoberfest

‘Ein prosit’

The leaves are changing colors and the air outside is getting more brisk: It’s time for sweaters, pumpkins and Oktoberfest.

WRESTLING: Flathead's Rich Vasquez resigns as coach

Led Braves to 3rd-place finish at 2015-16 state meet

Flathead wrestling coach Rich Vasquez has resigned after three seasons at the helm of Braves’ wrestling program, citing an ongoing medical issue.

TERRY COLUMN: Super scorers set for on-field showdown

There are many ways to score a goal in soccer.

Prominent Ohio bicyclist injured in U.S. 2 crash

Two days after an Ohio bicyclist pedaling across the country was hit by a car at highway speed between Coram and West Glacier, the woman remains at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in critical condition.

'Ein prosit'

Dave Nielsen of Vauxhall, Alberta, sports a feathered cap during the 2013 Oktoberfest at Depot Park in Whitefish. The Great Northwest Oktoberfest — featuring authentic German food, beer, music and games — returns to Whitefish this year for two weekends, Sept. 29-Oct. 1 and Oct. 6-8.

Glacier Park hosts naturalization ceremony

Glacier National Park painted the backdrop as 11 people from seven countries took their oath as new U.S. citizens Wednesday at Apgar campground.

'Lunch crunch' among old school's woes

BOND VOTE: Russell Elementary

Naturalization Ceremony in Glaicer National Park

Bernadette Binoya Fuhst of the Philippines throws her head back joyfully after receiving a small American Flag as well as her American Citizenship certificate. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Abducted woman rescued after 11 days

An abducted 22-year-old Polson woman was rescued in Billings Tuesday afternoon after she was able to make a phone call 11 days after she was captured, according to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office.

Get growing and plant cool crops for an extra inning of healthy harvest

Exxon Mobil to pay $12 million for oil spill

BILLINGS — Exxon Mobil Corp. will pay $12 million for environmental damages caused by a pipeline break that spilled 63,000 gallons of crude oil into Montana's Yellowstone River and prompted a national debate over lax pipeline safety rules, officials said Wednesday.

Taste of Home Cover

Taste of Home

Get a garden program growing at your school with these tips

Former school leader No. 2 on state board

Former Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Darlene Schottle recently was named vice chairwoman of the Montana Board of Public Education.

Egan Slough meeting postponed

The Flathead County commissioners’ discussion and possible vote on the proposed expansion of the Egan Slough Zoning District has been postponed because of a scheduling conflict.

Romano

Upcoming Events

Democrats hold Harvest Dinner Saturday

Jent

Concerns raised about impact of vacation rentals on housing

Kalispell City Council has asked for another work session to discuss zoning for short-term vacation rentals after public comment Monday illuminated a new concern tied to the recent controversial topic — a fear short-term rentals could remove long-term housing possibilities.

Truck stuck in yard after being chased

School Bond

The gymnasium at Peterson is far too small to accommodate the schools needs. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

The uplifting truth about end-of-life care

10 smart ideas to heat your home for less

Richard Collier

Technology helps people with diabetes worry less about lows

James Ivan 'Jimmy' Johnson, 82

James Ivan “Jimmy” Johnson, 82, “went to be with the Lord” on Sept. 18, 2016, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Hope King

Gerald 'Jerry' Lee Mick, 58

Gerald “Jerry” Lee Mick, 58, of Libby and proud co-owner of Happy’s Roadhouse Inn, died Sept. 6, 2016, in a motorcycle accident.

Daybook

TODAY

James Johnson

Richard C. 'Dick' Collier, 91

Richard C. “Dick” Collier passed away July 31, 2016. He “went to heaven to join his wife and three children and dearest friends” who meant the most to him.

Hope King, 65

Hope King, 65, passed away on Sept. 18, 2016, at North Valley Hospital.

Iva Dean McQueen, 68

Iva Dean McQueen, 68, of Polson, passed away Monday, Sept. 12, 2016, in Polson of cancer.

Duford's hat trick leads Polson over Valkyries

BIGFORK — Bigfork keeper Celeste Rehbein made 21 saves but it was not enough as Polson’s Tiara Duford potted three goals to lead the Pirates to a 3-0 Northern A conference win on Tuesday afternoon.

VOLLEYBALL: Glacier sweeps Hellgate; Flathead nipped by Big Sky

MISSOULA — Abi Fiske smashed nine kills and added six blocks to lead Glacier to a three-game sweep of Missoula Hellgate in Western AA conference action on Tuesday night.

SOCCER: Duford's hat trick leads Polson over Bigfork

Pirates win 3-0, stay perfect in conference

BIGFORK — Bigfork keeper Celeste Rehbein made 21 saves but it was not enough as Polson’s Tiara Duford potted three goals to lead the Pirates to a 3-0 Northern A conference win on Tuesday afternoon.

FOOTBALL: H.S. Rankings, Standings

Flathead manufacturing tours planned

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce is coordinating tours at several Flathead Valley manufacturing facilities throughout the next month. Space is limited and some tours will not accept walk-ins. Sign up at www.mfgday.com or call the Chamber at 406-758-2803.

School uses 'every nook and cranny'

BOND VOTE: Peterson Elementary

Local manufacturers share business insight

Keeping up with product demand and the challenges of government oversight were recurring themes as a panel of local manufacturers on Tuesday helped the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce kick off a month of manufacturing-related tours and events.

Concerns raised about impact of vacation rentals on housing

Kalispell City Council has asked for another work session to discuss zoning for short-term vacation rentals after public comment Monday illuminated a new concern tied to the recent controversial topic — a fear short-term rentals could remove long-term housing possibilities.

Bigfork Children's Theatre now owns its building

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre now has full ownership of the building it uses for rehearsals, auditions and other events, thanks to the generosity of its supporters.

Prominent Ohio bicyclist injured in U.S. 2 crash

Two days after an Ohio bicyclist pedaling across the country was hit by a car at highway speed between Coram and West Glacier, the woman remains at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in critical condition.

Egan Slough meeting postponed

The Flathead County commissioners’ discussion and possible vote on the proposed expansion of the Egan Slough Zoning District has been postponed because of a scheduling conflict.

3 common employment scams and tips to help avoid becoming a victim

Children's Theatre now owns its building

The Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre now has full ownership of the building it uses for rehearsals, auditions and other events, thanks to the generosity its supporters.

Sky Bridge

A sky bridge to connect the county's new South Campus Building with the Earl Bennett Building on First Avenue West starts to go up on Tuesday morning, September 20, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

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Workers finish the installation of the beams for the skybridge between the Flathead County South Campus Building and Earl Bennett Building on Tuesday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Clementine's Cabin

Sally Janover listens to Catherine Haug read during Clementine's Cabin Open Stage.

Libertarian candidate Mike Fellows dies in car crash

HELENA — Mike Fellows, the state Libertarian Party chairman who was making his eighth run for Montana's U.S. House seat, died in a car crash, authorities said Tuesday.

LETTER: Gianforte should clarify position

Montanans need a governor who will continue to provide access to and funding for reproductive health care. Planned Parenthood provides affordable health care to thousands of Montana women and men each year.

LETTER: Guidance for the commissioners

In your front page article of Sept. 8, Sam Wilson reported on the county commissioners’ meeting dealing with the Creston zoning plan change, which would impact the proposed Creston water bottling plant.

LETTER: Grateful for community's support

Being grateful is often overlooked, but living in the Flathead it is very easy to be grateful. Farming For The Future Academy, located at the Montana Veteran’s Home in Columbia Falls, is a non-profit that has been in service since 2011.

LETTER: Right track, or wrong track?

In case you missed it, a recent Bloomberg News national poll posed the following question:

LETTER: Re-evaluate forest and land management

Every year during fire season it’s the same thing... We spend tens of millions of dollars in futile efforts to try to control the damage. We also lose tens of millions of dollars worth of viable timber, create erosion corridors in fire lines and roads, and ensure lack of vegetation as a food source and cover for numerous creatures. This haphazard approach to forest and land management has to be re-evaluated.

Street sermon gets quieted down

Forest project approved in Swan Valley

The Swan Lake Ranger District of Flathead National Forest on Monday released its decision notice for the Cold Jim Fuels Reduction and Forest Health Project.

SOCCER: Whitefish boys blank Stillwater Christian

Goals by Denver Dicks and Quinten Joos gave Whitefish a 2-0 boys nonconference soccer victory over Stillwater Christian School on Monday afternoon at Stillwater Christian.

Helen Mae Frost Riebe, 90

Helen Mae Frost Riebe passed away on Sept. 14, 2016, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Joan Frances Luciano, 82

Joan Frances Luciano passed away peacefully surrounded by family in Eureka on Sept. 11, 2016. She was 82.

Lonnie Buchholtz, 64

Lonnie Buchholtz, 64, passed on Sept. 15, 2016, doing what brought him immense joy — riding his motorcycle with his close friends.

Tyler James Rodriguez, 15

Marion man charged with failing to register as sex offender

A Marion man accused of failing to register as a sex offender is facing a federal felony charge.

Historic school features hallway offices

BOND VOTE: Hedges Elementary

Commissioners consider bigger Egan Slough Zoning district

Meeting planned on Friday

The Flathead County commissioners on Friday will consider adopting a resolution to expand the Egan Slough Zoning District to include property where a water bottling plant is proposed near Creston.

Flathead Forest plans series of prescribed burns

The Flathead National Forest is planning to conduct multiple prescribed fire projects during the next several weeks.

Bicyclist, pedestrian hit by vehicles on U.S. 2

A Cleveland bicyclist pedaling across the country is in intensive care after she was hit by a vehicle traveling 65 miles per hour Sunday afternoon on U.S. 2 near West Glacier.

Car vs. pedestrian accident in Hungry Horse

Manhattan Explosion

Police capture immigrant sought in bombings

NEW YORK — An Afghan immigrant wanted for questioning in the bombings that rocked a New York City neighborhood and a New Jersey shore town was captured Monday after being wounded in a shootout with police that erupted when he was discovered asleep in the doorway of a New Jersey bar, authorities said.

Food bank director has passion for helping others

Twelve years ago, Lori Botkin took a job as office manager of the Flathead Food Bank as a temporary position until she could figure out her next career move.

FJ September 16 Cover

FJ September 16

DIL 091116 Cover

Flathead At Home Cover

Fall At Home Cover

School is 109 students over capacity

BOND VOTE: Edgerton Elementary

EDGERTON RENOVATIONS

Improvements planned at Edgerton Elementary School if voters approve a $25.3 million elementary school district bond request:

Kalispell City Council considers annexation

Tonight, the Kalispell City Council will consider a request to annex a 4.5-acre parcel on West Reserve Drive into the city.

Whitefish studies increase in housing cash-in-lieu fee

The rising cost of housing in Whitefish has prompted the City Council to consider increasing the city’s cash-in-lieu fee per housing unit from $8,000 to $12,000.

Bigfork duo ready to market ergonomic shears

As any barber or hair stylist knows, cutting hair for hour after hour with arms raised can take its toll on a person’s shoulders, elbows and wrists.

Marion man charged with not registering as sex offender

A Marion man is facing federal felony charges after allegedly not registering as a sex offender.

Banner causes safety concerns

A passerby called the

Kalispell man accused of dealing heroin

A Kalispell man is being held on $100,000 bail in Flathead County Detention Center for allegedly dealing heroin.

LETTER: Bullock's plan ensures future for hunting

Montanans are hunters and anglers. It’s what we do. It’s how we fill our freezers, and some of the best time we spend all year with family and friends.

LETTER: Vote yes for school bonds now, or society will pay later

Vote “YES!”

LETTER: It's time to update Flathead High School

As a current administrator and former teacher at Flathead High School, I’d like to address several key areas included in the Kalispell Schools’ high school bond.

LETTER: Subsidies are your gift to Tesla & green drivers

I am sure you are aware that Montana taxpayers are subsidizing the manufacturers, dealers and drivers of electric cars in many ways. You are most likely aware that electric car and battery manufacturers have received billions of dollars in government subsidies. So you and I, the taxpayer, have helped the manufacturers of these vehicles keep their prices lower.

LETTER: A Republic, if we can keep it

Constitution Day was celebrated on Sept. 17, and I pray we all remember that we, the citizens of this great country, are celebrating over 200 years of freedom and individual rights because of the U.S. Constitution. Our Constitution is like no other anywhere in the world, guaranteeing us liberty and justice for all.

WATER COOLER: Manufacturing month kicks off at Chamber lunch

Manufacturing month kicks off at Chamber lunch

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Flathead youths find faith, fun at World Youth Day

A group of 40 young pilgrims from Montana journeyed to Krakow, Poland, recently for World Youth Day. What they found in that foreign land went well beyond deepening their faith and having fun.

World Youth Day attendees

Montana youths attending World Youth Day showed their Montana pride by carrying the Montana flag everywhere they went, in part to keep the group together in the crowd of around 2.5 million people. Pictured are Kailen Bell, Amy Eikert, Nicole Brockman, Catherine Turk, Daniel Olszewski, Elyse Ramirez, Albert Olszewski, Johanna Lembke, Abby Bliss, Keegan Siebenaler and Nina Hill.

Flathead At Home

Man deemed mentally unfit to proceed for indecent exposure

A Kalispell man has been deemed mentally unfit to face legal proceedings on felony indecent exposure charges.

Verizon launches advanced network in Kalispell

Kalispell is one of seven Montana cities where Verizon Wireless has launched its LTE-Advanced network.

GOOD NEWS: Community, firefighters step up

Jim Roets, a volunteer with the Marion Fire District, took time to send off a hearty thank-you to the media and other community supporters for their promotion of the Smith Valley Walk-A-Mile.

Lock down results from road rage

Flathead Valley Community College briefly went into lock down mode on Friday afternoon for the report of a man with a gun on campus. According to a press release from

Foreign ag officials tour Whitefish hops farm

Foreign attachés from around the world got a close-up look at a Whitefish hops farm Wednesday, learning about the fragrant flowers that one Chinese representative noted are appropriately called “beer flowers” in her country.

Foreign Agricultural Service Attache Tour

Tom Britz talks about the science of growing hops in Montana with the Foreign Agricultural Service Attache Tour members on Wednesday, September 15, at Randy Scott's farm in Whitefish. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

EDITORIAL: High-school bond worthy of your vote

Voters just need to look at the facts:

Births, published Sept. 18, 2016

School Bond

Site of the proposed South Elementary Campus off of Airport Road in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Flink, 16

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Flink, 16, of Bigfork, was “given her angel wings and welcomed into heaven” on Sept. 14, 2016. Kaitlyn passed due to an unfortunate accident.

Donna M. Hamilton-Mast, 83

Donna M. Hamilton-Mast, 83, passed away Sept. 14, 2016, at Genesis Whitefish Care Center. She was there for a short stay after a fall and “just could not spring back” and “is now home with the Lord.” She was a beloved wife, mom, grandma, great grandma and great-great grandma and will be missed by many.

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Flink

Mary Elizabeth Plummer Riehl, 80

Mary Elizabeth Plummer Riehl, 80, passed away Sept. 7, 2016, of natural causes in Kalispell.

William Michael Hutchinson, 64

Mike Hutchinson, 64, passed away at Kalispell Regional Hospital on July 31, 2016, following a massive stroke.

William Michael Hutchinson

Mary Elizabeth Plummer Riehl

Donna Hamilton-Mast

LETTER: Sorry, Bob: Trump will 'git 'er done'

As a longtime friend and supporter of Bob Brown I have to state my disappointment in his decision to leave the Republican Party. I fear that Bob has lost the fire in his belly. I won’t address each issue he puts forth, but suffice it to say that Reagan’s belief in America as a “shining city on the hill for all to see” is a good place for Republicans to find common ground.

LETTER: Mr. Brown, we worked to get you elected - and now this!

I could not believe my eyes when I read the “guest opinion” by Bob Brown last Friday in the Daily Inter Lake!

LETTER: One writer backs Brown's critique of Donald Trump

I thank Bob Brown for his recent comments about Donald Trump and the danger to our country Mr. Trump would represent if he ever became president.

LETTER: Brown just intimidated by 'alpha-male Trump'?

Bob Brown, of Whitefish, is a former Montana Republican secretary of state and state Senate president. On Friday, Sept. 9, Bob Brown announced he will vote for Hillary Clinton rather than for Donald Trump.

LETTER: Democratic talking points from GOP politician?

It was with great sadness that I read the Bob Brown opinion piece in the newspaper. This was a man that I had voted for over the years, and now I believe that he has identified himself as one of the “elitist members of the Republican Party.”

LETTER: Why can't we be civil to each other?

As I was driving south into Lakeside this morning I noticed a prominent sign on private, undeveloped property stating “Trump the B--ch.” [Modified for taste]

Daybook

SUNDAY

VOLLEYBALL: Glacier takes down Helena in five

Flathead spikers swept by Helena Capital

Glacier squeezed out the fifth game 15-13 to earn a razor-tight win against Helena High on Saturday afternoon in a Western AA conference volleyball showdown.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Columbia Falls boys edge Polson; Pirates girls flip script

Glacier boys, girls fall at home

COLUMBIA FALLS — Louis Merchand scored in the 75th minute as Columbia Falls slipped by Polson 2-1 in a Northern A soccer match on Saturday at Flip Darling Field.

Chief explains benefits of motorcycles

Community members learned the benefits of using motorcycles for law enforcement work during Kalispell Police Chief Roger Nasset’s “Coffee with the Chief” program on Wednesday.

Man deemed mentally unfit to proceed for indecent exposure

A Kalispell man has been deemed mentally unfit to face legal proceedings on felony indecent exposure charges.

Man accused of dealing heroin

A Kalispell man is being held on $100,000 bail in Flathead County Detention Center for allegedly dealing heroin.

Owner gives up most animals involved in hoarding case

Many of the animals discovered during a mobile home fire in a hoarding case on King’s Way in Evergreen on Aug. 22 now have new homes.

COLUMN: A 'deplorable' immigration policy revisited

I took an interest in border politics in 2005 — about the time that Sens. Ted Kennedy and John McCain introduced their first immigration “reform” bill, the Secure America and Orderly Immigration Act.

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Jon McLaury of Libby throws a 56-pound weight during the weight for distance competition of the Highlands Athletics for the Flathead Celtic Festival at Herron Park on Saturday. Twenty-two athletes participated in nine traditional events. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Amy Williams of Frenchtown attempts to flip the caber during the caber toss at the Flathead Celtic Festival at Herron Park on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Bob Brock of Stevensville heaves a 22-pound Braemar stone during the HIghland Athletics competition of the Flathead Celtic Festival. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Meggie, a 16-week-old English bulldog, plays with Sarge, a 6-month-old boxer, during Doggie Dayz at Lawrence Park on Saturday. The event was hosted by Paws to Play to raise funds for a Kalispell dog park. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Ally Albrecht, dressed as a knight, walks her dog Molly, who was dressed like her horse, during the costume contest at Doggie Dayz at Lawrence Park on Saturday. Albrecht and Molly won the contest. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Kendall, a Brussels Griffon dressed as an Ewok, greets judge Jeremy Presta during the costume contest for Doggie Dayz. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier Volleyball

Glacier hitter Kali Gulick smashes the ball past two Helena defenders during the first game at Glacier on Saturday, Sept. 17. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Fall At Home

June Evelyn Giesey, 87

June Evelyn Giesey, 87, passed away Sept. 11, 2016, at the Rehabilitation Center of Belmond in Belmond, Iowa, where she had relocated from Kalispell in 2014.

Harold E. Blumer, 80

Harold E. Blumer, 80, of Kalispell, passed away Sept. 14, 2016, at Wel-Life Assisted Living in Kalispell.

Road work begins at Glacier Park tunnel

Beginning Monday, visitors to Glacier National Park can expect traffic delays at the Going-to-the-Sun Road’s West Tunnel, where construction workers will be replacing stone veneer and performing other rehabilitation work.

FOOTBALL: Glacier stuns Great Falls

Wolfpack outscores Bison 28-8 in final seven minutes to win

For the first 38 minutes of Friday night’s game at Legends Stadium, Great Falls High sliced through a complacent Glacier football team and looked on the way to a statement win, leading 20-3 just 2:06 into the fourth quarter.

FOOTBALL ROUNDUP: Bigfork, Eureka roll to easy wins

ST. IGNATIUS — Quarterback Augie Emslie had four touchdown passes, two going to Logan Taylor, as Bigfork stayed undefeated on the football season with a 41-0 romp over St. Ignatius on Friday night in Class B play.

VOLLEYBALL: Glacier, Flathead drop conference matches

Glacier won the first set but Helena Capital rallied to take the next three and earn a Western AA conference volleyball victory 20-25, 25-21, 25-12, 25-17 Friday night.

CROSS COUNTRY: Perrin, Bouma top finishers for Flathead in Great Falls

GREAT FALLS — Flathead runners, boys and girls, were both second and far behind Bozeman in a triangular format at the Great Falls Invitational cross country meet on Friday afternoon. Billings West was also in the same grouping.

Glacier football

Glacier receiver Scout Willcut can't come down with the ball after wrestling it away from Bison defender Kody Torgeson on a long pass attempt in the first quarter at Legends Stadium on Friday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Man denies burglarizing mobile-home firm

A Whitefish sex offender has denied allegedly burglarizing Patty Seaman Mobile Homes earlier this year and being caught with drugs in late 2015.

June Evelyn Giesey, 87

Minor injuries result from crash

DAYBOOK

Tribes amend bill for Bison Range transfer

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes announced Friday they have finalized draft legislation that would return management authority of the National Bison Range to the tribes.

Legends Stadium crown

New surface could double number of events at field

BOND VOTE: Legends Stadium

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Crosstown soccer

Flathead's Jordan Buxton (left) battles Glacier's Rohit Tappeta (right) for possession in the first crosstown match of the season on Sept. 15, at Legends Stadium (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Glacier soccer

Glacier junior Micah Reason eludes a Flathead defender in a crosstown soccer match, Sept. 15, 2016, at Legends Stadium. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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5 simple tips for the perfect birthday goodie bag

Cheerleader at Bigfork High dies

Bigfork High School varsity cheerleader Kaitlyn Flink, 16, was found dead in her home on Wednesday.

School Bond

(Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

School Bond - Peterson

School Bond - Russell

Montana Life: West Shore Community Library

Hudson McDonald, 3, listens enthusiastically at story time at the West Shore Community Library on Friday morning, September 16. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Pipes, electrical system targeted for replacement

BOND VOTE: Linderman Education Center

LETTER: Why build bombs that don't explode

America dropped 80 million unexploded bombs on Laos. Why do we build bombs that don’t explode?

Woman finds stray goats on porch

Betty Rose Fulford

Rita Lawson-Lawing, 80

Rita Lawson-Lawing, 80, passed away Sept. 12, 2016.

Suzanne Lavroushin, 55

After a brief illness, Suzanne Lavroushin, 55, died peacefully at her home in Kalispell on Sept. 13, 2016, with her husband, Ted Keller, at her side.

Wes Rashid

Betty Rose Fulford, 94

Betty Rose Fulford, 94, of Lewistown, passed away of natural causes on the morning of Sept. 9, 2016, at the Central Montana Nursing and Rehab Center in Lewistown.

Dr. Wes W. Rashid, 72

Wes Rashid, 72, “went home to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ,” on Sept. 8, 2016.

Man admits forgery, bad checks a decade ago

A man admitted in court on Thursday that he wrote bad checks and committed forgery more than a decade ago, stealing nearly $12,000 from his Flathead Valley victims.

GIRLS SOCCER: Glacier blitzes Bravettes

Wolfpack sets school record in AA soccer win

The gameplan for the Glacier girls soccer team against crosstown rival Flathead on Thursday night was to forget about the odd field conditions at Legends Stadium and send everything they had toward the net.

BOYS SOCCER: Flathead claims crosstown

Braves beat Glacier for fourth time in last seven meetings

Flathead scored bookend goals late in the first and early in the second half, finding enough space on a tightly-packed field at Legends Stadium to beat Glacier 2-1 on Thursday night, winning for the fourth time in their last seven meetings with their crosstown rival.

GOLF: Tinseth takes medalist honors at Kalispell Invite

Polson’s McDaniel finishes in 4th place

Glacier’s McKenna Tinseth and Polson’s Carson McDaniel were not necessarily pleased with their scores on Thursday at Buffalo Hill Golf Club.

FOOTBALL: Wolfpack wary of well-coached Bison

Statistically, Glacier football is one of the best teams in the state.

FOOTBALL: Flathead looking to build on big victory

Riding high after 4OT thriller, Flathead faces Missoula Big Sky next

Flathead was one yard away from disaster.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: C-Falls boys, Whitefish girls pick up wins

WHITEFISH — Columbia Falls got out to an early lead and never relented, topping rival Whitefish 3-0 in a Northern A conference match at Smith Fields on Thursday afternoon.

VOLLEYBALL ROUNDUP: Libby spills Bigfork; Whitefish, C-Falls win with sweeps

LIBBY — Brooklyn Rainer and Mehai Sykes shared the kill lead with seven apiece and Rainer added two blocks as Libby defeated Bigfork 25-15, 25-20, 25-23 in a District 7B volleyball match.

Glow Run lights up Columbia Falls

A 5-kilometer run with a novel twist comes to Columbia Falls on Friday night.

Glacier's Cadie Williams

Glacier junior Cadie Williams dribbles the ball as she charges down the field to score her third goal against Flathead at Legends Stadium on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead soccer

Flathead midfielder Joey Russell (facing) celebrates with teammates Paul Harms and Walt Hollensteiner (11) after scoring a goal in the second half of the Braves' 2-1 win against Glacier at Legends Stadium on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Teen pleads not guilty to series of burglaries

A teen has denied taking part in a burglary spree in the West Reserve Drive area earlier this year.

Foreign Agricultural Service Attache Tour

Randy Scott pulls up a tractor as he and family and friends prepare to begin harvesting hops on Wednesday evening, September 14, in Whitefish. A member of the Foreign Agricultural Service Attache Tour from China said that in his country hops were referred to as beer flowers. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Monday Profile: Lori Botkin

Executive Director of the Flathead Food Bank Lori Botkin stands in the sunlight in the delivery area of building on Thursday, Sept. 15, in Kalispell.

Six students earn National Merit honors

Five Kalispell high school students and one Polson student were named National Merit Scholarship semifinalists.

Flathead's Nick Weaver

Flathead's Nick Weaver hits his tee shot onto the green on the 12th hole during the Kalispell Invitational at Buffalo Hill Golf Club on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier's McKenna Tinseth

Glacier's McKenna Tinseth watches her tee shot on the 16th hole at the Kalispell Invitational at Buffalo Hill Golf Club on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Bigfork High School cheerleader dies

Bigfork High School varsity cheerleader Kaitlyn Flink, 16, was found dead in her home on Wednesday.

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Whitebark pine experts gather in Whitefish

The Whitebark Pine Ecosystem Foundation is working with the Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park to hold the foundation’s 2016 science meeting in Whitefish on Friday, Sept. 16.

LETTER: Mind your manners with political signs

Someone has hung a “political” sign on the west side of U.S. 93, between Somers and Lakeside. I will shorten the words because of the vulgarity: “Trump the B..ch”

OPINION: Answers sought about impact of bottling plant

We are writing in response to the Daily Inter Lake guest opinion “Water company owners give their side of the story” in the August 7 issue.

LETTER: Federal forest failures show need for Trump

It is common practice for our government to threaten curtailment of federal funding if a state fails to comply with certain of its policies. The following example shows how the entire forestry industry has been destroyed basically through mandated and enforced federal restrictions and regulations. Montana is getting closer to 50 percent dependency upon federal funding with controls. Meanwhile government is going after our land, water, natural resources and even our “minds.”

LETTER: Hard times and something to believe in

I believe this to be self-evident. Genesis 1:1: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.” Also, that the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights were based on biblical principles. It should not evolve into a more progressive foundation, continually changing into more relativism per each passing fad.

LETTER: Bullock and Motl? Or Laurel and Hardy?

Bullock and Motl? Or Laurel and Hardy?

Officers trap bear that killed deer

Superior design, superior functionality

If you become disabled or laid off, how can you pay your bills?

Nestor Walford Johnson, 90

Nestor Walford Johnson, 90, passed away peacefully in his sleep on Sept. 3, 2016.

Lil' Smokies headline Falls Fest this weekend

'Back in the old stompin' grounds'

It’s been a long road this year for the Lil’ Smokies. Between constant touring and several lineup changes, the group’s growing national popularity has created some unexpected (but not entirely unwelcome) twists and turns.

This Week in the Flathead | Sept. 15-21

Renee' Lynn Vick, 66

Renee’ Lynn Vick, 66, “rolled into heaven” on Sept. 11, 2016, after “crashing into the pearly gates.”

Renee' Lynn Vick

Nestor Johnson

Gerald Allen 'Jerry' Hammer, 82

Gerald Allen “Jerry” Hammer, 82, of Kalispell passed away Sept. 10, 2016, at Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

'Jerry' Hammer

Vacation-rental regulation gets one step closer

After shaping the rules surrounding short-term residential rentals for months, Kalispell City Council members said they’re almost ready to create a policy to regulate vacation rental operations.

Runners to race during night at Glacier Glow

Columbia Falls will trip the light fantastic Friday as it hosts its first ever Glacier Glow Run.

Polson's Tanner Wilson

Polson's Tanner Wilson (8) runs behind his blockers in a 2015 game, in Polson, in this file photo (Kylie Richter/Lake County Leader, file).

Polson's Matthew Rensvold

Polson wideout Matthew Rensvold (center) catches a pass from Tanner Wilson in this 2015 file photo. (Kylie Richter/Lake County Leader, file)

FEATURED: Polson's Pirate connection

Before heading to Griz, Polson pair focused on final prep season

POLSON — Win a state championship and you get a parade.

TERRY COLUMN: Early look at gridiron power balance

A third of the way into the high school football season, we’re beginning to see an outline of what the season may look like.

SOCCER: Crosstown showdown Thursday at Legends Stadium

The lights will be on at Legends Stadium one night early when Flathead and Glacier play a pair of crosstown soccer matches tonight at the usual home of the two schools’ football teams.

GOLF: Whitefish girls lead Kalispell Invitational

Hileman twins both in top 8 after first day

Holly Hileman shot a 91 and twin sister Hayley carded a 92 to lead Whitefish to the top of the leaderboard after day one of the Kalispell Invitational at Buffalo Hill Golf Club on Wednesday.

Man accused of assaulting woman with bat, snow globe

A man is being held on $50,000 bond for two felony accounts of assault with a weapon after he allegedly injured a woman in Somers on Saturday.

Lil' Smokies

The Lil’ Smokies will be performing at Falls Fest in Columbia Falls this weekend. The group’s new lineup features, from left, Matt Rieger, Matt Cornette, Andy Dunnigan, Jake Simpson and Scott Parker.

Expansion could serve more students

BOND VOTE; Vo-Ag Center

Lights up for U.S. 93 bypass

Some traffic signals are now operating at the U.S. 93 bypass, with the highway project expected to be completed by the end of next month.

Fishing flourishes as autumn weather arrives

I have fallen for fall. September has always been my favorite month, but for the last three to four years, there hasn’t been much difference between August and September — but not this year.

3 things to look for when buying a new home

Mother admits role in tot's death

An Evergreen mother has agreed to take responsibility for the murder of her 2-year-old son on Feb. 18, 2015.

Flathead's Rielly Manger

Flathead senior Rielly Manger chips to the green during the Kalispell Invitational Golf Tournament on Sept. 14, at Northern Pines Golf Course. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier's McKenna Tinseth

Glacier senior McKenna Tinseth tees off during the Kalispell Invitational Golf Tournament on Wednesday morning, Sept. 14, at Northern Pines Golf Course. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Tips to stop drafts, save money and improve your home

Meaningful, doable ways to support veterans, members of the military and their families

Glacier Park's Sun Road reopens

Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park now is fully open to motorists.

'Meds' safely stowed when police arrive

Kalispell Police responded to a report of a suspicious man at a dentist’s office who said he had stashed his backpack in the area when police were looking for him. According to the caller, the male was “sweaty and agitated, pacing the sidewalk” and stated that his backpack was full of “medical supplies,” then winked at the caller.

Rollover accident on US 206 North

Workmen begin the process of unloading a rolled-over semi on US 206 on Wednesday, September 14. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Are you at risk for an OTC pain medicine overdose?

5 DIY projects to liven up your office

Helen Kraft

Clair Johnston, 90

Clair Johnston, 90, of Columbia Falls, passed away Aug. 22, 2016, at his home.

Lawrence Oles Streeter, Jr.

Lawrence Oles Streeter, Jr., 47

Lawrence Oles Streeter, Jr., 47, of Columbia Falls, passed away Sept. 10, 2016, in Kalispell, surrounded by his loving family.

Carol Catherine Irvin

Helen Kraft, 61

Helen Kraft, 61, passed away Sep. 12, 2016, in Bozeman.

Marion E. Fairbanks, 83

Marion E. Fairbanks, 83, passed away Sept. 8, 2016, of natural causes at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Cecelia A. 'Sis' Moser

Marion E. Fairbanks

Cecelia A. 'Sis' Moser, 96

Cecelia A. Moser, 96, “entered into eternal life” on Sept. 7, 2016, at her home in Martin City.

Clair Johnston

Carol Catherine Irvin, 71

Carol Catherine Irvin, 71, beloved wife of Dick Irvin, passed away Sept. 12, 2016, after a valiant fight against cancer.

Ronald Kent Dickinson, 57

Ronald Kent Dickinson, 57, passed away at his home on Sept. 7, 2016. Ron was born in Billings. He attended schools in Billings, Kalispell and graduated from Thompson Falls High School where he participated in football and basketball. Ron worked in the logging industry until he was injured over 30 years ago.

Tribes seek missing mom of grizzly cubs

Conservation officers with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes are seeking information on a missing sow grizzly bear in the Post Creek area.

GOLF: Prep season winding down for area teams

With the high school golf season just over a month old, things are starting to take shape for area teams and players.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Columbia Falls squeaks out win; Flathead boys tie Sentinel

Columbia Falls bounced back from a goal deficit in a physical game with Stillwater Christian to leg out a 2-1 nonconference victory on Tuesday afternoon.

VOLLEYBALL: Stillwater Christian sweeps Eureka

Dorothy Smith put down a match-high nine kills and Stillwater Christian dominated from the service line with 16 aces in a 25-19, 25-20, 25-23 win over Eureka Tuesday night.

Stillwater Christian vs. Eureka Volleyball

Stillwater senior Sarah Dutton (12) returns a serve during the second game against Eureka on Tuesday night, September 13, in Kalispell. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Great Fish fundraiser expected to top $1 million

Donations will be taken through Friday

The Great Fish Community Challenge wraps up Friday, with more than $900,000 raised over the past few weeks.

Aging school needs plenty of work

BOND VOTE: Flathead High School

School Bond Hedges

School Bond new site

Superintendent of Kalispell Public Schools Mark Flatau on the site of the proposed South Elementary Campus on Monday, September 12. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

School Bond Vo Ag

School Bond Linderman basement

School Bond Legends bleachers

School Bond Legends

School Bond vo ag restroom

Two restroom stalls have to take care of all the female students at the VoAg Center. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

School Bond Legends office

View of the officials room at Legends Stadium. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

School Bond Linderman windows

School Bond: Edgerton

Side by side: This pit area at Edgerton Elementary was specifically designed so librarians could have students gather around and hear them for story time. With the super sized classes the area is too small. Teachers have to use overhead projections. The students standing in the pit are from one supersize class. 

School Bond Linderman fuses

School Bond Vo Ag barn

School Bond Hedges hallway

West side of Logan Pass still closed

Glacier National Park’s partial closure of Going-to-the-Sun Road at Logan Pass stretched into a third day Tuesday, after warmer weather failed to melt away ice still clinging to the road.

Back to work: Ease your baby into bottle feeding

Injunction halts Kootenai timber project

A massive timber project in the Kootenai National Forest has been temporarily halted after a federal appeals court granted an injunction requested by the Alliance for the Wild Rockies on Tuesday.

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ABCs of Medicare for Caregivers

Unconstitutional taking of our land and water

As a Montana landowner, I am deeply distressed by the activities of the U.S. Department of the Interior, state of Montana and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Bullock was wrong to block bill for special education

School is starting in many parts of Montana as we say goodbye to summer. Sadly, Gov. Bullock didn’t request any funding increases for this year’s special education students in his budget proposal in 2015.

Academy thanks Lake County sheriff for training

On behalf of the staff and students of the Mission Valley Christian Academy, I would like to thank the Lake County Sheriff’s Office for presenting an amazing seminar on school safety at our staff training days.

Why is far right so terrified of Hillary Clinton?

In response to Gene Speelman’s letter of Sept. 2, let me be the first to wish you bon voyage when you leave the country after Hillary Clinton is elected. Good luck with the states’ rights in the Netherlands. The countries of Europe are already well acquainted with Nazi fascism.

Libby's young golfers have made city proud

Sometimes we all get caught up in all the negatives we are facing here in Libby. The economy is challenging jobs are hard to find, these are very difficult times.

Senior rows his way to health at record pace

On Monday morning, Edwin Berry, 81, put on his running shoes and headed to his living room to train to beat another indoor rowing record.

Evacuations lifted on Copper King Fire

Suppression operations are winding down on the 28,553-acre Copper King Fire east of Thompson Falls, with all evacuations and pre-evacuation alerts lifted and a local incident management team assuming control Tuesday morning.

Kalispell woman dies in vehicle rollover

The Flathead County Sheriff’s Office has released the name of 66-year-old woman who died in a single-vehicle crash on Sunday at about 8:30 pm.

Lights out: 4 ways to prepare for a long outage after the storm

Financial tips: 5 ways to digitize your life and save even more

Births, published Sept. 13, 2016

Dragon boats maneuver around weather

A cold front sweeping through Northwest Montana on Sunday may have dampened attendance, but Montana Dragon Boat Festival organizer Diane Medler called the Lakeside event’s fifth year a success.

Teen approached with proposition

Planning Board looks at Core Area zoning

Kalispell officials will continue to shape plans to redevelop the heart of the city at a Planning Board work session Tuesday night.

Bank loans $9 million to college

Loan to pay for new student housing

Flathead Valley Community College has entered into an agreement with Glacier Bank for a loan of just over $9 million to build the college’s first on-campus student housing complex.

9/11 Benghazi Memorial

Paramedic/Firefighter Bill Thomas of Thousand Oaks California, listens as speeches are given at the third annual 9/11 Benghazi Memorial Ceremony in Bigfork on Sunday, September 11, at the Flathead Lake Lodge. Thomas is the force behind the creation of the Remember the Four statue which memorializes U.S. Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens and Sean Smith, a U.S. Foreign Service information management officer, as well as CIA contractors and former Navy SEALs, Tyrone S. Woods and Glen Doherty. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Standing at attention for 9/11

Captain Rod Schmidt, right, and Firefighter/EMT Travis Cik of the Bigfork Fire Department stand at attention as part of the annual vigil honoring those who died in the September 11, 2001. The vigil began at 6:47 a.m. which is the time the first plane hit. Ten firefighters held vigil in different shifts until 7 p.m. The vigil is kept to honor the sacrifice of their fellow firefighters and first responders, but also to make sure people don't forget. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Flathead Valley Community College Construction

Active Senior: Edwin Berry

Secrets to marrying style, eco-sense and luxury in any bathroom

Lost man rescued after night in Glacier Park woods

A Two Bear Air helicopter crew rescued a 74-year-old man in Glacier National Park on Sunday, a day after he became lost while picking huckleberries along Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Straw-bale maze opens Sept. 16

A new straw-bale maze north of Kalispell opens to the public on Sept. 16.

Logan Pass may reopen Tuesday

A Sunday snowstorm temporarily closed Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road over Logan Pass on Monday. Officials expected it could reopen sometime Tuesday.

Highline Trail snow

Driving 101: Smart tips to ace the road

Adaptive program opens doors for differently abled athletes

Making great strides

Moving Forward Adaptive Sports is living up to its name in the Flathead Valley.

How you can help

Moving Forward Adaptive Sports will hold a fundraiser from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Sept. 16, at the Hilton Homewood Suites in Kalispell. Bee Broadcasting radio personality Leah Lindsay will emcee the event; the guest speaker is Starla Hilliard Barnes, a paraplegic who founded the adaptive sports foundation.

Artist Danielle Taylor reveals inspiration

‘I don’t ever not see art’

Local artist Danielle Taylor sees art everywhere. And using a process that involves sketching, plaster, and palate knife painting with a variety of colors, paint types and textures, she recreates the art she sees for others to enjoy.

Kalispell City Council considers vacation rental rules

The rules surrounding short-term residential rentals will once again be up for discussion at tonight’s Kalispell City Council work session.

Drug trafficker sentenced to five years in prison

A Polson man will spend the next five years in federal prison for trafficking drugs.

Complaints abound about noise, booze

A Wisconsin Avenue resident called the

Making great strides

Differently abled athletes have fun whitewater rafting with Glacier Raft Co.

LETTER: Kids are worthy

LETTERS: Maybe you are part of problem

LETTER: 'Lake jumper' stops to reflect on her summer

LETTER: Is this another Trojan Horse?

DIL 091116

Intervention on oil pipeline project unprecedented

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — The Standing Rock Sioux’s effort to block a four-state oil pipeline got a lifeline when the federal government temporarily stopped the project, a move some say likely may forever change the way all energy infrastructure projects are reviewed in the future.

Births, published Sept. 11, 2016

Blake Christoferson, son of Crystal and Michael Christoferson of Kalispell, was born May 17 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

A story of love and loss

Every September when Suicide Prevention Awareness Month rolls around, I wonder if this will be the year I share my own story of loss to suicide. And every year I say no, it’s not time yet, and tuck that pain and loss back into the deepest trench of my heart where it has been for 37 years.

EDITORIAL: Superfund status a necessary step

Ag burn sends up plume of smoke

A controlled agricultural burn of a stubble field near West Reserve Drive and Springcreek Road in Kalispell sent a plume of smoke into the air Saturday afternoon. While some agricultural burns may be permitted this time of year, open burning will not begin until Oct. 1.

Papa Murphy's pizza shop doubling size in Kalispell

The owners of Papa Murphy’s Take ‘N’ Bake Pizza in Kalispell are nearing completion of a new facility that will double the amount of store space.

Tyler Wilkonski

Tyler Wilkonski, the owner of Papa Murphy's in Kalispell, makes a pizza on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

New building under construction

Papa Murphy's will move to a new building behind the current one in October. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Otis S. Hard, 71

Otis S. Hard, 71, was born July 17, 1945, to Otis and Nellie Hard. He died at his home surrounded by family on Sept. 5, 2016.

Ronald Kent Dickinson, 57

Ronald Kent Dickinson, 57, passed away at his home on Sept. 7, 2016. Ron was born in Billings. He attended schools in Billings and Kalispell and graduated from Thompson Falls High School, where he participated in football and basketball. Ron worked in the logging industry until he was injured over 30 years ago.

Wyatt Chase Smith, 20

Airman 1st Class Wyatt Chase Smith of Belgrade passed away in Bosque Farms, New Mexico, on Sept. 5.

Wyatt Chase Smith

OPINION: Trump as 'great man'? Now that's preposterous

OPINION: Why this pro-choice woman supports Greg Gianforte: Jobs

Joan Anderson, 86

Joan Anderson, formerly Joan Haaland Phillips, passed away Thursday, July 21, 2016, at Benefis Peace Hospice in Great Falls. Joan was born on Sept. 18, 1929, in Havre, the first of eight children to be born in a hospital. Joan was raised on the family homestead north of Inverness. She attended elementary school in Inverness, and spent her summers working on the farm with her father and brothers. In 1942, the family moved to Havre, where Joan attended Havre High School. In 1946, Joan spent a year with family in Seattle and graduated from Ballard High School. After graduation Joan returned to Montana and worked as a sales clerk in the record department at Butterey’s in Havre.

Joan Anderson

Gail Arlene Metcalf, 61

Gail Arlene Metcalf was a Renaissance woman with the soul of a pioneer homesteader. She loved the grain elevator and pioneer homestead landscapes of Eastern Montana, and she loved the forest, farm and mountain landscapes of Western Montana.

Gail Arlene Metcalf

Otis S. Hard

OPINION: Fifteen years later: 'A nation whose spirit could not be broken'

OPINION: Time to act like we will never forget

VOLLEYBALL: Glacier 4th at Electric City Invitational

GREAT FALLS — Glacier picked up a pair of hard-fought wins en route to a fourth place finish at the 16-team Electric City Invitational on Saturday afternoon.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Wood nets two goals in Libby win; Braves top Big Sky

HAMILTON — Two late goals by Cody Wood, at 52 and 78 minutes, allowed Libby to slip by Hamilton in a boys Class A soccer match on Saturday afternoon.

Workforce woes vex local businesses

Montana Chamber gets status report  at Bigfork gathering

'Terrorists will never ... defeat United States'

OPINION: Montanans are rallying to remember Diekmann's legacy

COLUMN: Finding a niche for outstanding Montanans

LETTER: Mistaken ID in Egan Slough story, but issues remain the same

The late Alex Diekmann

Montana Dragon Boat Festival 2016

In full pirate regalia Ryan Galloway and members “Black Pearl” team wait to board their boat on Saturday morning at the Montana Dragon Boat Festival in Lakeside. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Janice Marie Day Block, 80

Janice Marie Day Block, 80, of Polson passed away on Monday, Sept. 5, 2016, at St. Patrick Hospital. She blessed us and so many with her gifts of time, teaching, service and her smile.

Jeffery Neil Badeker, 44

Jeffery Neil Badeker, 44, departed from this world on Aug. 30, 2016, after a courageous battle with colon cancer.

Young scientists aim for D.C. trip

Two local students’ science fair projects have given them chances at winning a trip to Washington, D.C., and $25,000 after the youths were named semifinalists in a national science and engineering contest.

Flathead Invitational at Rebecca Farm

Ben Perrin of Flathead runs in the boys race at the Flathead Invitational on Friday, September 9, at Rebecca Farm. Perrin finished second behind Marshall Beatty of Missoula Sentinel.  (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Braves win wild Samson Bowl

Flathead tops Great Falls in 4 OTs, 42-41

GREAT FALLS — Kyle Samson, his voice scratchy and his mind spinning, didn’t make the drive back to Kalispell late Friday night.

Glacier's Hill cruises at Flathead Invite

Even as Annie Hill shook off some rust, she easily left other girls in the dust.

Wolfpack grinds out win over Capital

Drew Turner shrugged off an early injury and rumbled 76 yards for a clinching late touchdown to send the Glacier Wolfpack to their third straight win, 28-14 over Helena Capital at Legends Stadium on Friday night.

Football roundup: Emslie, Farrier help Bigfork top Conrad

BIGFORK — Augie Emslie had a pair of touchdown passes and Matt Farrier scored on runs of 5 and 36 yards as Bigfork (3-0 overall) held on to beat Conrad 28-26 on Friday evening in a Class B nonconference football game.

Soccer: Belgrade rallies to trip Columbia Falls

BELGRADE — Columbia Falls scored two quick goals in the first 16 minutes and accounted for the final tally, but it was all Belgrade between that as the Panthers drilled the Wildcats 6-3 in a Class A nonconference boys soccer match on Friday.

Tinseth finishes 3rd for Glacier at Capital City golf

HELENA — Glacier’s McKenna Tinseth, who shared the first-round lead with two players, slipped to third place on the final day of the Capital City Invitational golf tournament at Green Meadow Country Club.

Glacier, Flathead spikers busy at Great Falls Invite

GREAT FALLS — Glacier won 13 of 14 sets to continue its hot start to the 2016 season on Friday at the Great Falls Invitational volleyball tournament.

Glacier vs Helena Capital Bruins

Glacier center Jarrett Kessler (55) clears a path through the Helena Capital Bruins defensive line for ball carrier Drew Turner during the first half against the Helena Capital Bruins on Friday night at Legends Stadium. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Water service to be turned off Monday

Water will be temporarily turned off between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Monday, Sept. 12, in the Glacier View Drive, Columba and Juniper Bend residential areas off of Grandview Drive, as well as Buffalo Hills Drive, in Kalispell.

Two days of threats for Kila woman

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Man denies assaulting four people in rampage

A man pleaded not guilty in Flathead District Court to four felonies and two misdemeanors for an alleged drug-fueled assault rampage Aug. 6 in Kalispell.

Pilot injured in ultralight crash

The Lake County Sheriff’s Office responded to an ultralight plane crash off Songer Road southwest of Ronan Friday afternoon.

Ultralight crash

Jeffery Neil Badeker

Janice Marie Day Block

23rd Annual Threshing Bee

Chloe Converse, a fifth grader from Fair Mont Egan, center in blue, cheers as the threshing demonstration gets underway on Friday afternoon at the at the 23rd Annual Threshing Bee at the Olsen Pioneer Park north of Helena Flats. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

6 simple ways to freshen your home inside and out

Easy tips for smart snacking

Workforce woes vex local businesses

Local business owners and state representatives met with the Montana Chamber of Commerce Wednesday afternoon to discuss how to reinforce Flathead Valley businesses.

LETTERS from Friday, Sept. 9, 2016

OPINION: Longtime GOP politician endorses Hillary

EDITORIAL: New flights are welcome addition

The IRS does not take gift cards

FOOTBALL: Pack looks to build on fast start

WEEK 3 PREVIEW

Undefeated, a home opener going into the third weekend of the season and with no major injuries to speak of, life is good thus far for the Glacier High School football team.

FOOTBALL: Flathead set for family showdown

Father-son coaching battle frames critical contest for Braves WEEK 3 PREVIEW

The story this week has been an easy one.

COLUMN: (Over)reacting to early returns

First impressions are always, without exception, 100 percent bang-on, stone cold, take it to the bank, bet your life, write a letter home to momma accurate.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Glacier girls tie Big Sky late; boys pick up win

Glacier had to rally twice to gain a 2-all tie with Missoula Big Sky in girls Western AA soccer action Thursday afternoon at rainy Kidsports Complex.

VOLLEYBALL: Bigfork, Libby spike Deer Lodge

BIGFORK — Abbie Fraley had 15 kills, 15 digs and 7 aces to help Bigfork (2-0 overall) upend Deer Lodge in a Class B nonconference volleyball match on Thursday.

GOLF: Glacier's Tinseth leads in Helena; Polson, Whitefish win in C-Falls

HELENA — McKenna Tinseth of Glacier is tied for the lead with Sydnee Nowlen of Missoula Sentinel and Emily Garden of Missoula Hellgate at the Capital City Golf Invitational on at Bill Roberts Golf Course on Thursday.

Papa Murphy.jpg

Tyler Wilkonski, the owner of Papa Murphy's in Kalispell, makes a pizza on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily inter Lake)

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Papa Murphy's will move to a new building behind the current one in October. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Glacier girls soccer

Glacier defender Erica Braig heads a ball during the first half against Missoula Big Sky on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Dragon-boat festival hits the water this weekend

Lakeside’s biggest annual event kicks off this weekend as nearly 1,000 competitive rowers descend on the resort town to compete in the Fifth Annual Montana Dragon Boat Festival on Flathead Lake.

No headline

A Columbia Falls woman has been charged with six felonies for allegedly running a Ponzi scheme worth more than $1.5 million.

Monday Profile: Danielle Taylor

A technique artist Danielle Taylor uses is to build up the depth of the painting with plaster before using acrylic and oil paints to finish the work.

Susan Gay Lawson

Hazel Motichka

Ardine M. 'Dean' Mace

Creston Water Plant

Tom Tucker of Creston points to a map of Egan Slough with a bottling plant from California overlaid on it during a public hearing for Egan Slough Zoning District change at the Commissioners Chambers at the Flathead County Courthouse Thursday. 

FHS Bond

Flathead High School

Glacier crowding

Glacier records busiest summer ever

Barring what would be the lowest September turnout in more than 35 years, Glacier National Park is likely to set a new annual visitation record three months before the year ends.

Doris Gilmer Leach, 96

Doris Gilmer Leach, 96, “went to be with the Lord” in the early morning hours of Sept. 4, 2016, attended by her oldest son.

C. Falls woman charged with investment fraud

A Columbia Falls woman has been charged with six felonies for allegedly running a Ponzi scheme worth more than $1.5 million.

Thelma Marie Kassner

Baseball legends are speaking up about advanced prostate cancer - here's why you should listen

TWIF 090816 Cover

TWIF 090816

Grizzly killed by truck in Swan Valley

A large male grizzly bear was struck and killed by a semi truck on the Swan Highway near Condon early Tuesday morning, according to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Small business tips: How to maximize your marketing, minimize your spend

This Week in the Flathead | Sept. 8-14

Flathead Celtic Festival brings culture, community together

The Flathead Celtic Festival and Highland Games return to Kalispell for the second event next weekend.

Meeting to discuss Dern Road junction project

The Montana Department of Transportation is conducting an open house and informational meeting Sept. 13 to discuss improvement options for the intersection of Dern Road and Springcreek Road on U.S. 2 west of Kalispell.

Columbia Falls senior Sage Wanner

COLUMBIA FALLS senior Sage Wanner has his sights set on the Class A state cross country championship. The second-year Wildcat finished eighth at the state meet last fall before winning a state title in the 3,200-meters at the state track meet. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

FEATURED: Sage Wanner's star turn

Overshadowed Wildcats speedster ready to step into spotlight this fall

COLUMBIA FALLS — There might not be such a thing as a celebrity cross country runner.

CROSS COUNTRY: All eyes on Valley as cross country season gets underway

Local schools boast title contenders in all three classes 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

Cross country will draw more attention than usual in the Flathead Valley this fall for a variety of reasons.

Candidates talk about health care

Legislative candidates from the Flathead Valley met in Kalispell on Tuesday night to talk about what role they believe the Legislature and state funding should play in health-care services.

Show founders still thrilled by big engines

Nick Poncelt and Steve Skyberg never have totaled up the number of horsepower units contained within the many engines they’ve restored and rebuilt, but suffice to say it’s a lot of power.

Recreation season turns toward fall activities

Like it or not, fall is here! Two weeks ago, the weekend before Labor Day weekend, we were at our cabin with our granddaughters. The lake water had cooled a little, but with afternoon temperatures in the 80s, it still felt like summer. We did a lot of swimming and other water sports. There were lots of other folks on the lake enjoying a nice late-summer weekend.

Celtic celebration

A flag waves over the inaugural Flathead Celtic Festival in 2015. The second Flathead Celtic Festival will be held next weekend at Herron Park in Kalispell.

EPA decision both welcomed, scorned

The Environmental Protection Agency’s announcement Friday that it would proceed with a Superfund listing of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. site could end a debate that has simmered since the listing was first proposed in March 2015.

Tired of fighting, Libby mayor resigns

LIBBY — After years of conflict in local government and less than a week after a judge ended a recall effort against him, Libby Mayor Doug Roll has resigned.

Board approves Happy Valley casino

A proposed casino and tavern near Happy Valley on Tuesday won unanimous approval from the Flathead County Board of Adjustment despite heavy opposition from neighbors.

Su cuerpo le habla. ¿Está escuchándolo?

Pioneer Preview

Foggy Morning

A dense fog sweeps across the farms north of Kalispell on Wednesday morning, September 7. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

Ardine M. 'Dean' Mace, 78

Ardine M. “Dean” Mace, 78, passed away at his home, of natural causes, in Whitefish on Aug. 10, 2016.

Thelma Marie Kassner, 92

Thelma passed away at Visions Senior Living Center in Apache Junction, Arizona, on Aug. 24, 2016. Her only child, Jay E. Kassner, of Anchorage, Alaska, was by her side.

Hazel Motichka, 102

Hazel Motichka, 102, passed away on the morning of Sunday, Sept. 4, 2016. “The earth lost an angel and heaven gained one. Hazel Motichka went to be with her Lord, and many friends and relatives who preceded her in death during her 102 years on this earth.”

Susan Gay Lawson, 51

Susan Gay Lawson, 51, “returned to her heavenly home” on Sept. 2, 2016, after a valiant battle with a long illness. Born Jan. 2, 1965, her unwavering devotion to her family and her firm belief in God supported her in her struggle and ultimately gave her peace.

Col. Falls Aluminum plant gets Superfund status

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced Wednesday that it will list part of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. property as a Superfund site this week.

Women admit locking children in basement

A Kalispell couple admitted in Flathead District Court on Wednesday that they went too far in disciplining their adoptive children by locking them overnight in a basement bedroom on multiple occasions.

Millennials: 3 financial priorities that shouldn't wait

5-Time Olympic Swimmer, Former World-Record Holder and Mom Shares Her Experience with Swimmer's Ear

5 things you can do to choose the right type of OTC pain reliever for you

Building a Strong Fence Starts with Properly Set Posts

Cinco consejos que debemos tener en cuenta para escoger el analgésico idóneo

Child Bridge receives national recognition

Child Bridge, a Flathead Valley nonprofit organization that finds and supports foster and adoptive families for Montana children in need, is being recognized by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption this month as an Angel in Adoption.

VOLLEYBALL: Loaded Columbia Falls favored to repeat

Defending state champions bring back nearly entire team 2016 SEASON PREVIEW

Columbia Falls flew under the radar last volleyball season.

SOCCER: Stingy Hellgate shuts out Glacier boys

Wolfpack girls also fall, 6-2, in Missoula

MISSOULA — Defending Class AA state champion Missoula Hellgate scored three second half goals to pull away from Glacier and win a Western AA conference match 5-0 on Tuesday.

VOLLEYBALL: Troy knocks off Stillwater Christian

TROY — Sami Rohrich put down eight kills to lead Troy to a nonconference 25-20, 11-25, 25-20, 25-23 win over visiting Stillwater Christian on Tuesday.

Glacier shuttles limited to west side of Sun Roa

Glacier National Park’s shuttle system now is operating only on the west side of Going-to-the-Sun Road.

Garage fire

Fire destroys garage, vehicles

A fire destroyed a garage, three motorcycles and two cars Saturday night at 348 Willow Glen Drive near Kalispell.

Group lands expanded air service for Flathead

Glacier Airline Enhancement and Retention Outreach, known as AERO, has secured new direct air service between San Francisco and Glacier Park International Airport for the upcoming winter season.

Rainfall cools off Copper King Fire

Steady rain was falling Tuesday on the Copper King Fire east of Thompson Falls, capping a stretch of cool, cloudy days that have given firefighters a chance to strengthen containment lines and begin demobilizing personnel and equipment.

Handkerchief Lake next in line for fish treatment

Anglers have one last week of limitless fishing on Handkerchief Lake before Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks sterilizes the lake as part of its ongoing westslope cutthroat trout conservation project.

Rainy days at the library

Chi Tran of Whitefish spends part of a rainy Tuesday to study for the upcoming Certified Public Accountant exam at the Whitefish Community Library on September 6. Tran is scheduled to take the exam on Friday. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

5 ways to prepare your outdoor living space for fall

Comments sought on fishing rules

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking public comments on proposed adjustments to the 2017 fishing regulations.

Taste the Flathead Cover

Creating confidence: 8 steps to feeling more self-assured

Cozy, clean and comfortable: 5 steps for getting your home autumn-ready

High court dismisses rapist's appeal

The Montana Supreme Court has dismissed the appeal of a Polson man who is serving a 50-year sentence for raping a woman in 2013.

Pin & Cue ready for a busy season

When Mac McCracken purchased the Pin & Cue in 1998, he described the facility as being “tired.”

Lindholm, Gregg win Labor Day golf titles

Kalispell’s Logan Lindholm survived a sudden death playoff to win the 79th International Labor Day Tournament on Monday at Buffalo Hill Golf Club.

Team studying why fires growing in '88 burn areas

Nearly three decades ago, huge wildfires burned about a third of Yellowstone National Park. The park has seen wildfires every year since, but the forests of new trees that grew in the scars of those 1988 fires have helped curb their size and intensity — until now.

Columbia Falls races to boost business

As Columbia Falls’ largest employer Weyerhaeuser Co. shutters its mills, city officials are racing to fill the void before potential jobs find a place outside the North Valley city or the Flathead Valley.

Young dirt bikers raise concerns

A person called the

Yellowstone Wildfires 1988

Grizzlies seen for first time in a century in Upper Big Hole area

BUTTE — State wildlife biologists are trying to figure out whether grizzly bears spotted this year in the Upper Big Hole River area for the first time in about a century came from Yellowstone or Northwest Montana.

Family learns to face cancer together

During her first week of sixth grade, Sophia Porter learned the new halls at Kalispell Middle School that she would walk for the next three years.

Whitefish considers water and sewer rate increases

A proposal to raise water and sewer rates by nearly $5 a month for an average household will be discussed at a public hearing Tuesday before the Whitefish City Council.

New director ready to help kids learn

Heading Head Start

It’s good to be back in her home again for Marcy Otten of Kalispell.

Kalispell City Council considers Verizon lease

The Kalispell City Council will vote on Tuesday whether to adopt a water tower lease agreement with Verizon.

Health-care forum planned on Tuesday

Kalispell legislative candidates have been invited to a public discussion on how they intend to improve the Montana health-care system.

Always bring extra batteries

An elderly woman called the

Man charged in alleged eye-gouging attack

A Kalispell man is facing felony attempted aggravated assault and burglary charges after he allegedly threw a propane tank through a window and tried to kill a relative by gouging out his eyeballs.

Green-box monitor has 'the greatest job'

A labor of love

If beauty is in the eye of the beholder, then to Dennis Kelleher the new Bigfork green-box garbage collection site is Buckingham Palace and he’s king of the castle.

Authorities try to revoke rapist's release

Authorities have arrested a man for probation violations after he was released from prison last year.

Buls, Gregg leaders at Labor Day golf

Ryan Buls of Kalispell shot a 4-under-par 68 on Sunday to top the leader board at the 79th International Labor Day Tournament at Buffalo Hill Golf Club.

Men plead not guilty to shooting on river

Two Kalispell men have pleaded not guilty to firing semiautomatic weapons at people floating the Flathead River in July.

Richard R. 'Dick' Coverdell, 78

DIL 090416

LETTER: How can anyone vote for Hillary?

At 70 years old, it’s hard to be surprised anymore. I’m baffled at the willful ignorance displayed by American leaders at all levels, and far too many of the American people. When I read letters to the editor trumpeting the Obama administration and promoting Hillary as our next president, I’m amazed.

LETTER: No mountain bikes in wilderness

This is a response to the Mountain Bicycles in Wilderness effort. First, a bit about me — I have four bikes; a Specialized Allez road bike, an old Specialized Stump Jumper mountain bike, a Surly Pugsley fat-tire bike, and a Surly Long Haul Trucker touring bike... I ride them all at various times.

LETTER: Water bottling plant should not be allowed

I have lived in Creston for several years. It has recently come to my attention that Montana Artesian Water Company wants to open and operate a water bottling plant in the Creston area. I find this very disturbing. I chose to live in Montana because of its healthy, nature-rich environment, and now the powers that be are willing to allow this environment to be at risk of air pollution from hundreds of large trucks on the road, water pollution by the dumping of 35,000 gallons of “waste water” into Flathead Lake, and lessening the quality of life for many citizens of the community through restrictions in well capacity and the dust stirred by the aforementioned vehicles (approximately 200 pounds of dust stirred each day on the dirt roads in the dry season.)

California man sentenced for trafficking drugs

A California man will spend more than eight years in federal prison for trafficking drugs into the Flathead Valley.

EDITORIAL: Good news for Labor Day holiday

Many Montanans are enjoying the fruits of their labor this weekend, as they celebrate the Labor Day holiday with their family and friends.

OPINION: Hurricanes, presidents and the lessons of LBJ

Americans are once again experiencing hurricane season. Throughout most of American history, our presidents did not visit the sites of hurricanes and other natural disasters. That practice did not really began until our 36th president, Lyndon B. Johnson.

LETTER: Increased forest management will enhance our quality of life

While the Flathead was recently ranked as the fastest growing county in the state, our unemployment rate still stands above the state average despite our growth. We’ve seen layoffs at some of our oldest employers like Stoltze Land & Lumber Co., mill closures at Weyerhaeuser, and diminished numbers in some of our older sources of revenue like agriculture and mining. Many suggest tourism will replace these industries, but in the Flathead, it’s important to embrace all that our natural resources have to offer not only to ensure a strong economy, but also to enhance the quality of life that Northwest Montana has to offer.

OPINION: Sparrow's Nest grateful for community help

Crawl-space rules added to flood regulations

Public hearing planned Sept. 14

Development requirements for crawl spaces in Flathead County’s flood fringe or regulated flood hazard area are among the flood-plain regulation revisions that will be considered this month by the county Planning Board.

Crown Guitar Foundation finishes season of celebration

The Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation’s Workshop and Festival wrapped up its seventh season yesterday in Bigfork.

Crown Guitar Foundation finishes season of celebration

The Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation’s Workshop and Festival wrapped up its seventh season Saturday in Bigfork.

FOOTBALL: Osweiler warming up to Houston

Brock Osweiler looks and sounds as comfortable as ever in the starting quarterback role for the Houston Texans and it’s beginning to show.

Big Sky Martial Arts students at Team Trials

Big Sky Martial Arts of Kalispell will be well represented at the 2016 Team Trials for taekwondo in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, Sept. 7-9.

Kalispell's Brock Osweiler

Houston Texans quarterback Brock Osweiler (17) and receiver Will Fuller (15) celebrate after a play in the first half of an NFL preseason game against the Arizona Cardinals on Aug. 28, 2016, in Houston. (Associated Press)

Big Sky Martial Arts

Big Sky Martial Arts of Kalispell has four members competing on the national taekwondo stage. Pictured are: (from left) coach Master John Paul Noyes, Taylor Reed, Adam Bartlett, Cheyenne Arndt, coach Master Mrs. Debbie Noyes and Thomas Reed. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

VOLLEYBALL ROUNDUP: Columbia Falls keeps rolling

HAMILTON — Defending Class A state champion Columbia Falls earned a hard-fought win in Corvallis to begin the day, then swept Hamilton later on to snare a pair of nonconference victories Saturday.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Gedlaman, Duford continue scoring binges

COLUMBIA FALLS — Hannah Gedlaman scored the first three goals and the finale in a 7-0 Northern A girls soccer victory over Bigfork on Saturday at Flip Darling Field.

GOLF: Allen, Lindholm share men's lead at Labor Day tourney

Gregg has 3-shot lead in ladies play at Buffalo Hill Golf Club

Eric Allard of Calgary, Alberta, and Kalispell’s Logan Lindholm both shot 4-under-par 62s to share the first-day lead at the 79th International Labor Day Tournament at Buffalo Hill Golf Club on Saturday.

COLUMN: GOP suicide and other liberal leaps

Longtime Clinton operative James Carville said last week that the Republican Party is committing suicide by supporting Donald Trump.

Transient trouble close to home

“Tent City,” as its denizens called it, wasn’t much of a city.

Whitefish attracts transients as well as tourists

On July 20 at 2 p.m., a call comes into the Whitefish Police dispatch. A group of transients with dogs have been hanging out at a city park near the Whitefish River for the past few days. The caller tells police he’s concerned. He’s with his grandmother and the transients are being “very loud and confrontational.”

Whitefish soccer

Whitefish defender Carson White splits two Livingston defenders to get to the ball during the second half in Whitefish on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

79th Labor Day tournament

Debbie Hadley chips onto the green during the 79th International Labor Day Golf Tournament at Buffalo Hill Golf Club on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Chad Edwards rolls a ball at the Pin & Cue in Whitefish on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

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Elizabeth Kluesener of Belgrade fires a blank at a balloon during the revolver match of the Montana State Cowboy Mounted Shooting Championship at Majestic Valley Arena on Saturday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

Trailer fire leaves man, dog homeless

A man and his dog are now facing homelessness after their fifth-wheel trailer fire burned Tuesday on Grigg Road near Glacier Park International Airport.

Taste the Flathead

Bail set at $500,000 for killing-spree threats

A Kalispell sex offender is being held on $500,000 bail after allegedly threatening to go on a killing spree to bring attention to the Flathead County criminal justice system.

FOOTBALL: Bengals blow out Braves

Helena scores 41 points in first half

Flathead knew it would face a stiff test Friday night.

FOOTBALL ROUNDUP: Bridwell, Columbia Falls sizzle again; Polson downs Hamilton

Bigfork survives Ronan, Whitefish hammered in Dillon

COLUMBIA FALLS — Dakota Bridwell threw for seven touchdowns for the second straight game as Columbia Falls racked up more than 500 yards of offense, topping Stevensville 70-21 in a nonconference Class A football game on Friday night.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: Glacier splits with Capital; Flathead swept by Helena

HELENA — Glacier's boys scored first but dropped a 2-1 Western AA conference soccer match to Helena Capital on Friday night.

VOLLEYBALL: Glacier splits with Idaho schools; Ronan edges Stillwater

Glacier split in nonconference volleyball action on Friday afternoon with two visiting schools from Idaho.

Vikings headed out

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

CROSS COUNTRY: Flathead's Ben Perrin wins in Cut Bank

CUT BANK — Flathead sophomore Ben Perrin ran a sizzling 15:45 to best a large field and win the Mike Reynolds Time Trials on Friday.

GOLF: Tinseth leads Glacier Girls at Butte Invite

Wolfpack finish 4th as a team; one point away from 3rd place

BUTTE — The Glacier girls moved up in the team standings on the final day, just missing out on a third-place finish at the Butte Invitational at Fairmont Golf Course.

Flathead football

Flathead receiver James Flannigan avoids the tackle of Helena defender Keair Adgerson after catching a ball during the first quarter on Sept. 2 at Legends Stadium. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

New school year starts on Tuesday

After the Labor Day holiday, the remainder of Flathead Valley schools begin classes.

Kalispell Police warn about mail theft

The Kalispell Police Department is urging people to protect their mail after investigating a number of thefts of mail in the last few months.

Dennis Kelleher

Dennis Kelleher, the site monitor of the Bigfork Green Box Container Site, loves his job.

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The Columbia Falls Industrial Park. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

SmartLam

Knife threat: mistaken identity?

Internet speed ramped up for Evergreen students

On the second day of school Thursday at Evergreen Junior High, eighth-graders in the classroom of science teacher Vic Dalla Betta and special education teacher Melissa Hardman appeared to have dived right into a daily routine.

Rain may slow, but not drench big fire near Thompson Falls

Suppression crews battling the sprawling Copper King Fire saw little relief from the rain falling on Western Montana Thursday night and Friday morning, but they are cautiously optimistic headed into a stretch of cool weather this weekend.

LETTER: Billi is logical choice for Whitefish

I went to school with Chet Billi, and he was always outspoken. If something was being taught in the class that Chet believed was false or misrepresented, he spoke up. He’s not afraid to stand on principle, and the people of Whitefish need someone who won’t be afraid to fight for them.

LETTER: What's the limit for number of bottling plants?

I’m curious about the proposed water bottling plant. Mr. Weaver, it seems, has been given legal permission to forge ahead. My question is: If he can do it, who can’t? Is one more OK? Maybe five? Maybe 50? What’s the limit?

LETTER: Clinton must not be elected

Hillary Clinton has to be defeated. Her life is a big bubble, a joke, a life of protection by the Secret Service since her “husband” was elected president in 1992.

LETTER: Help victims of La. flooding

So sorry about those fishes in the Yellowstone. May I ask what about the thousands, thousands, thousands of people who lost so very much in Louisiana in the worst flood in five hundred years in their state? There are thousands, thousands, thousands who lost their homes. Everything they own. Some had to get out without even shoes on their feet. What about them? What about those who lost their lives? Some may never recover from this 500-year worst flood in Louisiana.

LETTER: Stop invasion of United States

We do NOT need more uneducated, illiterate, unaffiliated, faithful-to-their-abandoned-countries foreign welfare recipients — unqualified to do any work that many Americans would and could do.

LETTER: Thanks for helping Child Development Center

In Northwest Montana, we take care of our neighbors, even when those neighbors live several miles away and lead very different lives under our big sky. Most importantly, we take care of our children.

EDITORIAL: Winning the uphill battle to fix slope

Residents affected by the unstable hillside on the west end of the Village Greens golf community no doubt are relieved to know Flathead County is finally moving forward with a stabilization project that should keep the bluff from sliding again.

Indiana man identified as Mount Jackson victim

Glacier National Park on Friday released the identity of the Portage, Indiana, man who died Tuesday after falling on Mount Jackson while hiking with his son.

FOOTBALL: Glacier bites Bozeman in shootout

Wolfpack scores winning TD with 15 seconds to play

BOZEMAN — Trailing by three points with 2 minutes, 37 seconds remaining, Glacier (2-0) drove 80 yards down the field and scored a touchdown with 15 seconds to play, winning a 49-45 shootout over Class AA rival Bozeman (0-1) on Friday night at Van Winkle Stadium.

Irrigators appeal to state high court

A group of Western Montana irrigators has appealed to the Montana Supreme Court, following a Lake County judge’s July decision upholding most of the water compact for the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

Smart renovation investments to prepare your home for winter

House candidates clash over coal during debate

BILLINGS — Democrat Denise Juneau asserted strong support for the coal industry while Republican U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke highlighted her vote against a major eastern Montana mining project as natural resources took center stage Thursday night during a sometimes-raucous U.S. House debate.

Bond reduction denied for suspect in murder case

Bail will not be reduced for the man who led authorities to the body of a murder victim earlier this year.

VOLLEYBALL: Wildkats roar past Bravettes

Defending state champs slam 39 kills in win

Kaitlyn Casazza put down 11 kills and defending Class A state champion Columbia Falls went on the road and rolled through banged-up Flathead 25-14, 25-20, 25-18 Thursday night.

FOOTBALL: Glacier, Bozeman square off, again

Teams have played 7 times in last 4 years

Glacier has seen Bozeman plenty of times on the football field over the last few years.

FOOTBALL: Young Braves backs ready to carry load

Flathead, Helena square off Friday at Legends Stadium

Ryan Skramovsky waited patiently last season, biding his time as all-state running back Josh McCracken barreled through defenses and helped Flathead football surge back to relevancy and the Class AA playoffs.

SOCCER ROUNDUP: C-Falls roughs up Broncs; Polson boys rock Loyola

FRENCHTOWN — Logan Stephens scored a pair of first half goals to lead Columbia Falls to a comfortable 3-1 nonconference soccer victory in a physical Class A match on the road.

GOLF: Glacier girls 5th after first day in Butte

BUTTE — Flathead and Glacier are in the middle of the pack in the team standings at the Butte Invitational golf tournament.

GOLF: 79th Annual Labor Day tournament begins Friday

Buffalo Hill Golf Club to host top amateurs for 54-hole tourney

Low handicap golfers from the United States and Canada will converge on Buffalo Hill Golf Club this weekend in hopes of bringing home one of the top amateur prizes in the Pacific Northwest.

Cat by woodpile not a welcome sight

Columbia Falls Volleyball

Columbia Falls senior Morgan Stenger smashes the game-winning shot over Flathead senior Sierra Siblerud in the second set at Flathead on Thursday. (Aaric Bryan/Daily Inter Lake)

No headline

Bigfork is bidding summer goodbye with a bang this weekend at the annual Rumble in the Bay car show.

Truck causes five-vehicle crash

The five people injured in a Wednesday afternoon crash on U.S. 2 west of Kalispell sustained serious but not life-threatening injuries, according to Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Jim Schneider.

Norma (Kliewer) Wallace, 95

Grandstands rebuilding fund reaches $90,000

Two months after a fire wiped out the classic wooden grandstands at the Columbia Falls baseball stadium, donations have come to nearly $90,000 to rebuild the structure.

Harold Lavern Schiele, 77

Firefighting efforts wrap up near Lakeside

Fire suppression crews assigned to the Bierney Creek Fire west of Lakeside declared it fully contained Wednesday afternoon, but are asking the public to remain wary of lingering hazards throughout the burn area.

Robert E. LeProwse, 90

During the early hours of Thursday, Aug. 25, 2016, Robert “Bob” LeProwse “took his final golf swing” at the Montana Veteran’s Home in Columbia Falls, his residence since December 2015.

Joanne Elizabeth Eaves, 71

Gary Albert Barber, 66

Parole denied for man who shot deputy

The Montana Board of Pardons and Parole on Wednesday refused to release from prison an anti-government extremist who shot a Missoula County sheriff’s deputy in 1992 in the Swan Valley.

Evergreen innovation

Man dies, son survives Glacier Park fall

A hiker died after a fall Tuesday on Mount Jackson, the fourth-tallest peak in Glacier National Park. His 27-year-old son also fell, but was able to self-arrest and survived with minor injuries.

Weight loss tips: Cut calories without cutting flavor

Portions of Yellowstone River reopened

BILLINGS — Montana reopened portions of the Yellowstone River and some tributaries Thursday but is keeping a popular stretch closed to all recreational activity due to a parasite that has killed thousands of fish.

LETTER: Why I left California, and want Montana left alone...

In response to Francis Johnson as to who gets to be the last in the “Last Best Place”:

LETTER: Tourists come to area to see bears

What is the job of a Glacier National Park ranger? Is it to help provide visitors with a memorable vacation experience? Is it to be gracious and courteous to all who visit?

LETTER: Some assurances needed about water use...

I found Mr. Weaver’s letter about Montana Artesian to have some data which to me has absolutely no bearing on the use of water.

LETTER: Can you plagiarize common phrases?

I was born in the hills new Yoncalla, Oregon, in 1941 — now approaching my 75th birthday. My father was not highly educated, but was a very principled and honest man. Many times, (I do mean many) when I was a youngster he would say, “Your word is your bond. You need to do what you say you will do.”

Two candidates removed from legislative races

Two Flathead County candidates for the state Legislature will not appear on the November ballot after failing to file required documents, according to state officials.

Fabulous food finds puts Pittsburgh on every traveler's 'must visit' list

Host and hostess gifts everyone will love

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Mary Eva (Largent) Bray, 80

Mary Eva (Largent) Bray, 80, passed away peacefully surrounded by her family, on Aug. 25, 2016, from a cerebral hemorrhage.

William James Sandson, 23

William James Sandson’s life ended unexpectedly on Sunday, Aug. 28, 2016, at the young age of 23.

Rita Kay Stroisch Taylor, 67

Rita Kay Stroisch Taylor, 67, passed away on Monday, Aug. 29, 2016.

This Week in the Flathead | Sept. 1-7

EDITORIAL: Big plans for Big Brothers, Sisters

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Flathead County is looking for a few good men and women — 50, to be exact.

Classic cars roll into Bigfork this weekend

Rumble in the Bay

Bigfork is bidding summer goodbye with a bang this weekend at the annual Rumble in the Bay car show.

Young man facing two assault charges

A 19-year-old man has been charged with two felonies after allegedly wielding a knife and strangling a family member.