EDITORIAL: New flights are welcome addition

Congratulations to the Glacier AERO for snagging direct air service between San Francisco and Kalispell for the upcoming winter season.

The Airline Enhancement and Retention Outreach group is a nonprofit that was organized to make air travel in and out of the Flathead Valley more convenient in order to assist both our business community and our tourism industry.

One of the success stories is direct service to Chicago, and AERO also recently announced expanded holiday service to and from the Windy City.

A key ingredient in bringing new flights to Kalispell is that AERO raises funds to offer airlines a minimum revenue guarantee in exchange for their service.

Thanks to everyone in the hospitality industry and elsewhere who has stepped up to make these improvements in local air service possible.

Enjoy Nordicfest in Libby

All things Scandinavian will be in vogue today and Saturday at the annual Nordicfest Heritage Festival in Libby.

The Northwest Montana city celebrates its Scandinavian heritage with fun-filled days including authentic food, entertainment, a quilt show and a juried craft show.

The centerpiece parade rolls down U.S. 2 and Mineral Avenue at 11 a.m. Saturday.

The town usually pulls out all the stops for this traditional celebration.

For a full schedule of events, go to www.libbynordicfest.org.

The ‘Power’ of antiques

If you’re looking for some family fun in the Flathead this weekend, take a step back in time at the Northwest Antique Power Show at Olsen Pioneer Park on Helena Flats Road near Glacier Park International Airport.

From gigantic engines that once powered homes and oil wells to threshing machines and antique tractors, history is on display throughout the spacious grounds. Spectators get to see many of the machines in action, along with shingle-making and sawmill demonstrations. Youngsters will like the gold-panning and wood-turning activities.

This important piece of our history would wither away if not for the dedicated members of the Northwest Antique Power Association who go the distance to provide a wonderful three-day show each year. The power show, in its 23rd year, starts today and is open from noon to 4 p.m.

Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday it’s open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Get ready for a blast from the past.

Parade of Homes time!

Another popular annual event on the calendar this weekend is the Flathead Valley Parade of Homes. This year, there are 12 amazing homes on the parade route from Whitefish to Lakeside and from Columbia Falls to Bigfork, with stops at several homes in and around Kalispell in between.

Brought to you by the Flathead Building Association and the event sponsor, Sliters Lumber and Building Supply, this parade will leave you breathless at the craftsmanship and quality of the local homes on display. Homes are open for visits from noon to 8 p.m. today, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $15 at the door. Look for more information at www.buildingflathead.com.