Ellington

Quagga mussels found on two boats in Montana

Training slated for volunteer inspectors

Rehberg vows to continue fight against Obamacare

Tester, Baucus support U.S. Supreme Court ruling

Supreme Court rules on federal health care act

The U.S. Supreme Court ruled 5-4 today that the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 — often called Obamacare — is constitutional.

'Motorcycle Bandit' Norred Sentenced in U.S. District Court

            The United States Attorney’s Office announced that during a federal court session in Missoula, on June 28, before U.S. District Judge Donald W. Molloy, Steven Dee Norred, a 56-year-old resident of Bigfork, appeared for sentencing.  Norred was sentenced to a term of 171 months in prison, $600 special assessment, $88,012 restitution, and 5 years of supervised release.

Hockaday sign refurbished and ready for home

The iconic moving fisherman sign that held its own along Montana 93 in Lakeside for over 50 years has been refurbished and is on the verge of finding its way into the sight-line of Lakeside residents once again.

Senior Center wants to increase Meals on Wheels participants

The Bigfork Senior Center wants to increase the number of people they service through their Meals on Wheels program, especially now that the snowbirds are back for the summer.

Local author writes what he knows, scuba diving in Montana and California

Ferndale’s Glen Watson recently published his first fiction novel, “Monterey Bay 1960: Lady of Cannery Row.” His book is loosely based on a combination of his past experiences scuba diving while living in Glasgow and in Salinas, Calif. and his family’s history combined with fictional elements.

Huge Lake Trout Caught by 84-year old at Flathead Lake

Donna Commers has fished much of her life, but hasn’t been able to go in recent years. On June 21 she had the luck of her life. Comers, 84, a resident at Lakeview Care Center in Bigfork, landed a 37-inch, 15-pound lake trout at the Fishing Without Barriers Day on Flathead Lake.

Fourth of July festivities in the Flathead

The Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday this year, right in the middle of the week, which could affect all those workers hoping for a three-day weekend. For those with only one day off, there’s still plenty to do:

Eagle scout aims to give back and leave a lasting mark on BHS

For some teenagers, summer break is a time for relaxing and staying as far away from school as possible. But for Bigfork High School student Kegan Driver, this summer isn’t about either of those things.

Jury sides with county over contested boat ramp

A jury has sided with Flathead County on all claims made against it in a lawsuit over a public boat launch on Church Slough.

Bigfork School Board reviews last year

The Bigfork School Board discussed the school’s budget, reviewed last year’s progress and renewed their insurance policy for the upcoming school year during their meeting on June 20.

Flathead Brewery revamps labels with help of Missoula artist

The Imperial IPA and The Imperial sailboat are two things the Flathead Lake Brewery will ideally some day be known for. Incidentally, their vision of this same boat is ever-present on the new logos created to re-brand their beers.

Kids these days...

Recently I found myself in a coffee shop. It seems to be something I’m doing a lot lately, not because I don’t want to be at home, but because I don’t have internet at home.

Kalispell volunteer keeps Crane Mountain trails passable

Heat pulls the scent from orange honeysuckle and wild roses, leaving it hanging above the partially damp earth that leads up Crane Mountain.

Family comes together to open Bigfork outdoor store

Espresso and bicycles. As customers walk into Bigfork’s newest store, Montana Adventure Sports, those are the two things they see first.

Krueger's victory is confirmed

Gary Krueger was declared the winner of the Republican primary election for the District 3 Flathead County commissioner nomination following Monday’s recount of ballots in the tight race.

$4 million assisted living center coming to Bigfork

Senior citizens who need a little help with day-to-day tasks but desire an independent lifestyle will soon be able to have both and remain living in Bigfork.

Deloris Thompson

Deloris Thompson, 95, passed away peacefully at her home on June 25, 2012, leaving behind two sons, Richard and Ronald. Her husband, Charles, and two sons, Teddy and Bobby, had already stepped into eternity.

Betty Lou Lohmann

Betty Lou Lohmann, age 86, formerly of Sentinel Butte, N.D., passed away from natural causes on Sunday, June 17, at Epiphany Assisted Living in Coon Rapids, N.D. She was surrounded by family and wonderful staff at Epiphany who loved her. Visitation was from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Sunday, June 24 at the Silvernale-Silha Funeral Home in Beach, N.D. Funeral Services were held at 10 a.m. on Monday, at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in Beach with Reverend Scott Hojnacki officiating.

Bigfork's new abulance hall funds used for upgrades

In December of 2006 the Bigfork QRU, a 501c-3 nonprofit organization (independent of Bigfork Fire Department at that time), initiated a fundraising campaign for a new ambulance hall. You responded generously with tax deductable contributions of approximately $91,000.

Sports news

Shodair soccer

Fourth of July festivities scheduled throughout the Flathead

The Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday this year, right in the middle of the week, which could affect all those workers hoping for a three-day weekend. For those with only one day off, there’s still plenty to do:

We have to start from the ground up

I just returned from two weeks in Wisconsin where I was visiting family and attending alumni functions at Beloit College, my alma mater, class of 1953. My first day of travel to Wisconsin was Tuesday, June 5, the Primary Election day.

Lakeside Community Fair set for July 14

Lakeside is going to be bustling with activity on July 14 for the 23rd annual Lakeside Community Fair.

Trustee sets up match-fund for fifthgrade band program

Lakeside/Somers School Board trustee Sam Bagley set up a match-fund for the fifth-grade band program earlier this month called the Somers Music and Arts Fund. Bagley has pledged to match up to $5,000 in donations from his personal bank account to ensure the program continues as the district faces budget cuts.

Hockaday sign refurbished and ready for home

The iconic moving fisherman sign that held its own along Montana 93 in Lakeside for over 50 years has been refurbished and is on the verge of finding its way into the sight-line of Lakeside residents once again.

Donald Ronish

Donald L. Ronish, 55, of Columbia Falls, passed away June 21, 2012, at North Valley Hospital.

Doris Roy

Doris Ruth Roy, 87, died June 20, 2012, at the Bee Hive Home in Columbia Falls.

Bryson Krissie

Bryson Micheal Krissie, 18, of Dexter, Ore., died June 7, 2012, of a vehicle-pedestrian hit-and-run accident.

Christopher Smith Jr.

Christopher “CJ” Jay Smith Jr., 30, of Columbia Falls, passed away June 16, 2012, after a lengthy battle with brain cancer. He was born July 7, 1981, to Christopher and Debbie Smith in Warden, Wash.

William Moore

William Barry Moore passed away peacefully in the early morning hours of May 5, 2012, at Ponderosa Pines Healthcare in Billings. Barry, as he was known by all, had resided at The Ponderosa for the past two years, suffering from COPD and diabetes.

June unkind to Twins

Cory Davis had a big day at the plate June 23 with three hits and three runs scored, but it wasn’t enough to get the sliding Glacier Twins AA past the Missoula Mavericks in an important Legion baseball conference game in Missoula.

Babcock and Langton are high-point swimmers

Colton Babcock and Tyler Langton had a great weekend at the Plains Invitational swim meet June 23-24.

Wildcat Academic all-state athletes

The following Columbia Falls High School athletes received academic all-state honors for having a grade point average of 3.5 or higher while lettering in sports during the fourth quarter:

Ladies Auxiliary Department members listed

Dianna Bennett was elected state president of the Ladies Auxiliary Department of Montana. She is past president of Bigfork Auxiliary 4042.

Social events outshine weather

According to the calendar, it’s now summer. According to the weather, it’s still spring. Although we have not had two whole days without rain, it’s still been chilly.

Watergate truths 40 years later

This month marks 40 years since the Watergate scandal. The anniversary has me remembering a discussion in 1987 with Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill who, 15 years earlier, had seen the foreboding shadow of the distant Watergate tsunami a full year before it crashed over the nation’s political shoreline.

Flooded with climate change claims

We have been flooded with global-warming and climate-change claims stating that the evidence is clear, that the debate is closed, that we must act immediately, etc., but in fact there is no replicable (verify by reproduction) scientific evidence that human-caused carbon dioxide emissions cause climate change.

High wolf hunt quotas not justified

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks recently presented their 2012 Montana Wolf Hunting Season Proposal at Flathead Valley Community College in Kalispell. It included a striking graph of a generally year-to-year increase in Montana’s wolf population 1979-2011 that was used to justify maintaining a high wolf harvest level in 2012.

Flooding closes Park's Inside Road

The Inside North Fork Road, Glacier National Park’s oldest road, will need some repair work this spring before it can fully open. Logging Creek has braided into several channels just south of the Logging Creek Ranger Station, and the road is closed between Logging and Fish creeks.

First woman to don green and gray in Glacier

Visitors to Glacier National Park today will see a lot of women wearing the green and gray uniforms of the National Park Service. But it wasn’t always that way. Women in uniformed positions were once a rarity in Glacier Park.

City gets proactive about invasive species

Skunked by a monster brownie

No doubt you’ve heard the old saying, “Don’t wish too hard for something, you just might get it.”

Outdoor news

Bird talk

Krueger declared winner in commissioner primary race

Gary Krueger was declared the winner of the Republican primary race for the Flathead County District 3 commissioner seat following a recount of ballots on June 25.

Fourth of July festivities across the Flathead Valley

The Fourth of July falls on a Wednesday this year, right in the middle of the week, which could affect all those workers hoping for a three-day weekend. For those with only one day off, there’s still plenty to do:

Community news

MDT boss

School news

Boys Nation

Actors needed for feature film

If it was a want-ad, it might read like this: “Director seeking men, women and children to act in a film for three weeks in August. No experience required, but interesting personalities with interesting stories are preferred. Pay is nothing, except for perhaps an occasional free meal and the satisfaction of a job well done. Also, we need to someone to provide the occasional free meal.”

City moves ahead with cell phone ban

The Columbia Falls City Council had expected some kind of public reaction at its June 18 meeting to its proposal to ban hand-held communication devices while driving. Instead, it was an ordinance on vacation rentals that drew all the attention.

Freedom Fest at Peace Park on July 4

Court rules against Montana

Ban on corporate campaign spending ruled unconstitutional

Stoltze history spans more than a century

An eye to the future

Donald Persicke

Betty Janie Steig

14-inning showdown ends in Twins loss

Dogs set to face Cats during homecoming

Brist resigns as Bulldog XC coach

Fireworks show funding on target

Two arrested in WHS vandalism case

Carlson resigns as WHS principal

The Whitefish School Board Monday approved a separation agreement with high school principal Dave Carlson.

Tester-Rehberg debate in Whitefish canceled

A debate between U.S. Sen. Jon Tester and Republican challenger U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg has been canceled with no plans to reschedule.

Texting by teen drivers widespread

Teenagers are known for their technological finesse, from texting to e-mail to social media. But put that knowledge behind the wheel and you get one of today’s most talked-about health dangers — distracted driving.

Bryson Oliver O'Dell

GNP to hold ranger-led activities

The schedule for summer ranger-led activities in Glacier National Park through July 7 has been released. The activities include a variety of hikes, talks, boat tours, demonstrations, and evening programs. Hour-long to day-long hikes led by rangers are offered in many areas of the park, including Lake McDonald Valley, Two Medicine, Many Glacier, St. Mary, and Goat Haunt.

Sliter Park bathrooms ready for summer

Bigfork’s Sliter Park bathrooms may have left a bad impression on all who used them before the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork, the Bigfork Community Development Foundation and Flathead County took it upon themselves to give the bathrooms an overhaul last month in preparation for the 2012 summer season.

Spirit Fest kicks off County Fair

The theme of this year’s Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo is “Vote for Fun.” The fair will run from Aug. 15-19 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds.

Missoula DJs bring art of mixing to the Raven

Bass pounds the air above Flathead Lake just off the cement deck at The Raven on Saturday night. Neon green, pink and blue lights trade stage time with a bright white one that rotates, highlighting Woods Bay in flashes.

USFS to host aquatic invasive species program at the Condon Work Center

In an effort to increase awareness of the growing threat of aquatic invasive species, the Swan Ecosystem Center will sponsor an informational program on the topic June 28 at the U.S. Forest Service Condon Work Center from 7-8:30 p.m. The program will feature a presentation by Ky Zimmerman from Region 1 of the Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks in Kalispell.

FWP wants to decrease wolf numbers

Discussion was often spirited at last week’s meeting on proposed changes to next fall’s Montana wolf hunt, but it was also civil.

Virtuoso Violins debuting around Flathead Valley, bids being accepted

Twelve prominent Montana artists have offered their talents to a Glacier Symphony and Chorale fundraiser celebrating its 30th season. The “Virtuoso Violins Art Auction” is a traveling exhibit of 11 sculpted and painted violins that will be displayed during the month of June in store windows of Frame of Reference in Bigfork, Glacier Bank in downtown Kalispell, and at Bozeman Watch Co. in Whitefish.

Bigfork's Valleyaires to perform at Sliters

The Valleyaires will ring the rafters on stage on June 24 in Bigfork’s Sliter Park at 7 p.m. This upbeat group, a four-part harmony blend of men’s voices, is made up of members of the International Barbershop Harmony Society.

PEO brings Broadway to Bigfork to support women's scholarships

The Bigfork chapter of PEO, the Philanthropic Education Organization, is holding its first fundraising night on June 30 to raise funds for scholarships for women’s education on June 30 from 5-8 p.m. at Flathead Lake Lodge.

Rehberg-Tester debate in Whitefish canceled

The Montana Broadcasters Association has announced the Rehberg-Tester senate campaign debate in Whitefish has been canceled.

Marathon golf round to benefit junior program

Alumni game celebrates 20 years of soccer

Robert Allen Weaver

No harm from breach in cleanup pond

Rehberg says he won't attend Whitefish debate with Tester

School District saves $1M on bonds

City looks at campaign sign restrictions

Herbicides, mechanical removal proposed for Beaver Lake milfoil

Gary Ott

Gary Louis Ott, 63, of Kalispell lost his battle with cancer on June 5, 2012.

Michael Ban

Michael A “Oso” Ban, 81, passed away June 14, 2012, surrounded by his family at his home in Martin City.

Lucile Shepherd

Lucile Bonita Parker Shepherd passed away May 25, 2012 in Augusta, Ga.

Glen Forman

Glen Arnold Forman Jr., 58, passed away on the morning of June 4, 2012, at Garden Manor in Brookville, Ohio. He died from complications caused by a fall in February that broke his neck and left him a quadriplegic.

Some good advice for June floaters

It appears that the professional foresters were correct — the lodgepole pine that seemed to be dying only weeks ago are already producing new, green needles. We still need to remember that the foresters also warned that several wet springs in a row could cause the death of some of these young pines.

Border bill is a product of Fear Inc.

In a recent column by Helena lawyer Cory Swanson in newspapers across Montana, Swanson concurs with Rep. Denny Rehberg’s support of H.R. 1505 (the National Security and Federal Lands Protection Act), “a bill that strengthens America’s ability to protect itself by securing our borders against illegal aliens, drug and human traffickers, and terrorists.”

Amazed by benefits wolves provide

I am amazed that wolves returning to Yellowstone seem to be restoring the balance of nature in our first national park. The wolf is helping to make Yellowstone National Park whole again.

Big plans for small Canyon towns after the war

Exciting days were underway during June, 1948, in areas which were to become towns. One, Hungry Horse Village, was to be occupied by U.S. Bureau of Reclamation employees. Other was created for families of General-Shea-Morrison, general contractor, employees.

Looking back at the lost art of compromise

In the sweltering heat of August in San Diego, a stocky and brawny Sen. Richard Lugar barreled past me, sweat glistening on his brow, and soaking his T-shirt. He was jogging with several young staffers during a break at the 1996 Republican National Convention. Lugar was 64 then, but his boyish face and muscular conditioning made him appear younger. In fact, he was the embodiment of vitality and energy.

Fringe groups and an apathetic public endanger wolves

I am conflicted over the very complex and controversial wolf issue in Montana, Idaho and Wyoming. I am writing this on Father’s Day 2012 as I have no human children, nor any other human family, so the wildlife are my family and children.

Defending medical marijuana use

As a Montana attorney and Republican candidate for State House District 4, I filed an amicus brief in support of the plaintiffs in the federal appellate case Montana Caregivers LLC, et. al. v. United States, et. al. (12-35110).

Glacier trail fundraiser

The Gateway to Glacier Trail organization would like to thank members of the community, including the Hungry Horse News, for the support provided to our yard and garage sales on two recent Saturdays.

Cat-Dog soccer rivalry rekindled in July 1 alumni games

Former soccer players from both Columbia Falls and Whitefish high schools who played between 1992 and 2012 will battle for the inaugural North Valley Cup on July 1. The summer soccer event is the brainchild of Whitefish boys soccer coach O’Brien Byrd and is sponsored by the Flathead Rapids. He calls the reunion event a “festival and jamboree.”

C-Falls swimmers do well at Bitterroot meet

Columbia Falls opened its swimming season at the Bitterroot meet in Hamilton on June 16-17. The Wildcats qualified 18 swimmers for the finals on Sunday.

Sports news

B-ball camp

Park rangers respond to Mt. Sinopah incident

Glacier National Park Rangers responded to two serious incidents over the weekend involving an injured hiker and a capsized canoe.

Wolf hunting, trapping debated

Discussion was often spirited at last week’s meeting on proposed changes to next fall’s Montana wolf hunt, but it was also civil.

Backcountry travel soggy, but opening up

Backcountry travel in Glacier National Park and the Bob Marshall Wilderness is beginning to open up, but it’s definitely soggy or snowy travel.

Take advantage of longer daylight hours

In case you were wondering, last week in this space Keith Brown’s monster kokanee salmon photo was mislabeled “rainbow trout.” And the good thing about it is, Brown’s fish gets a second mention this week.

Outdoor news

Weed-pulling rodeo

Ag sprayer takes down power line

An equipment operator spraying a farm field off Middle Road south of Columbia Falls found himself in a tense situation last week after one of his spray booms took down a high voltage wire June 11.

Flathead home sales increasing

Prices dropping as foreclosure sales continue

Pertussis cases in the Flathead winding down

Flathead County pertussis cases reached 59 last week, and two schools were added to the list of those with students sick with the disease. Health officials, however, say the outbreak of whooping cough or the 100-day cough may be ending.

School news

Dean’s list

Community news

Actors needed

Wolves play important role in ecosystem

I am amazed!

Move beyond the blame game

I am guessing that everyone who reads this newspaper has inherited and needed to fix a difficulty that was generated by someone else.

Students get advice from alumni in Hollywood

It isn’t often that you see a familiar name roll in Hollywood movie credits. But look closely enough, and you’ll catch the name of Columbia Falls native Lindsay Good listed for big-ticket films such as “Eagle Eye” (2008), “Cowboys and Aliens” (2011) and “Date Night” (2012).

Father's Day isn't about genetics

Father’s Day was Sunday, and for millions of people it meant celebrating the impact their father had on their life by making him breakfast in bed, grilling out, or even making homemade cards out of crayons with promises to mow the lawn. It’s a fantastic holiday, if the father is around.

News for contemplating

One has to wonder if the West Virginia hitchhiker making state and national news this month will change the name of the book he is working on.

Local man saves dog from going over the dam

Not many people would ever consider jumping into the Swan River since it’s filled with recently melted snow and the closer you get to the dam the more dangerous it becomes. But, when a life was in danger Bigfork’s Bruce Piasecki didn’t hesitate to jump in last Wednesday at 10 a.m.

Title IX is a bit more complex than that

Father's Day isn't about genetics, it's about who raised you

Father’s Day was Sunday, and for millions of people it meant celebrating the impact their father had on their life by making him breakfast in bed, grilling out, or even making homemade cards out of crayons with promises to mow the lawn. It’s a fantastic holiday, if the father is around.

Lakeside working to raise money for new bike trail

A fundraising effort is under way for the new Blacktail Trail project in Lakeside.

EPA and DEQ address Tie Plant's issues

There are six issues with recommended courses of action outlined in the most recent five-year review of the remedial actions performed under the Superfund program for the Burlington Northern Somers Tie Plant by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Tie plant's five-year review reveals unanswered questions

The fourth five-year review of the remedial actions performed under the Superfund program for the Burlington Northern Somers Tie Plant by the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has revealed some unanswered questions regarding the extent of the site’s contaminated groundwater.

State rejects Lake County allegations

Despite a recently issued state ruling citing a lack of evidence for allegations against the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, further allegations will be tested in a lawsuit that began moving forward last week.

Sun Road to open today

All 50 miles of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road is expected to open to motor vehicle travel today, Tuesday, June 19, allowing access to Logan Pass.

Park plow crews finishing up Sun Road work

Glacier National Park plow crews have punched through the Big Drift on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, just east of Logan Pass, but Park officials still plan to hold off opening up the alpine highway to motor vehicles until the middle of next week.

Sentence reinstated for counterfeiting

A 24-year-old Kalispell woman charged with passing counterfeit money in Columbia Falls in 2009 was back in Flathead County District Court after the county attorney’s office petitioned to revoke her deferred sentence.

District court upholds city DUI case

A 28-year-old Whitefish woman’s sentence in Columbia Falls City Court was upheld in Flathead County District Court on May 31 with some amended charges.

Marijuana detected in blood of driver

A 33-year-old Columbia Falls man pleaded not guilty to felony negligent homicide in Flathead County District Court on June 7 in connection with a fatal wreck on U.S. 2 two years ago.

Pertussis cases in the Flathead winding down

Flathead County pertussis cases reached 59 this week, and two schools were added to the list of those with students sick with the disease. Health officials, however, say the outbreak of whooping cough or the 100-day cough may be ending.

Ranger-led activities abound in Glacier Park

Ranger-led activities in Glacier National Park through July 7 include hikes, talks, boat tours, demonstrations and evening programs. Hour-long to day-long hikes led by rangers are offered in many areas of the Park, including Lake McDonald Valley, Two Medicine, Many Glacier, St. Mary and Goat Haunt.

Monster trout snagged in Whitefish Lake

New zip line, aerial park planned at Big Mountain

City budget reflects turning economy

Steeplechase top pick to oversee WHS reconstruction

Local woman remembers Diamond Jubilee

Artist looks to honor queen a second time

Push made for U.S. 93 West crosswalk

Quilt Guild showcases work, raffles quilting retreat

A bald eagle flies in a swirling blue sky above a small log cabin on a creek below the mountains. A moose is knee-deep in the water and smoke curls up from the chimney.

Shirley Ann Neilson

Shirley Ann Neilson, 75, passed peacefully on June 7, in her home in Bigfork, following a two-year battle with cancer. Shirley was born in Helena on November 18, 1936 to Rhea and Charles Cartwright. She is survived by her husband of 57 years, Jerry Neilson, their sons, Rick and his wife Deb, Jeff and his wife Cortney, Dane and his wife Becky, Van and his wife Valke, and nine grandchildren who knew her affectionately as “Gigi”; Erin, Jeremy, Stow, Abby, Zack, Ava, Abigail, Shelby, one great-grandson Solomon and her sister, Marilyn McKenzie of Oshkosh, Wis.

Twins rained out

The Glacier Twins AA Legion Baseball club’s game with Mission Valley was rained out last week. The team’s next home game is set for Saturday, June 16, with the alumni game at 6 p.m.

Wildkat softball players recognized

The Columbia Falls High School girls softball team had a host of all-state and all-conference selections this year.

Osborne will run for MSU Billings

Columbia Falls High School senior Jinise Osborne will run track and cross-country on a scholarship at Montana State University-Billings starting next fall.

Wildcat football coach resigns

The Columbia Falls High School athletics program will see some changes next fall. Activities Director John Thompson will become an assistant principal at the high school, and football coach Bill Coleman has resigned due to family reasons.

William Koppy

William R. Koppy, 78, of Columbia Falls, passed away June 7, 2012, at the Montana Veterans Home.

Francis McBride

Francis LaVerne McBride, 94, passed away with her family at her side on May 31, 2012, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Trail workers needed

Trails don’t just appear out of thin air. On the contrary, they take years of hard labor to complete. On June 2, Americans celebrated National Trails Day, and the nearly 200,000 miles of trails forged from sweat, blisters and true grit.

Youth sports

I would like to give great thanks and much appreciation to the people who volunteered or contributed in some way to another successful year of Columbia Falls youth girls/boys basketball and volleyball through Flathead County Parks and Recreation.

Canyon shooting incidents get ignored

Land of the free and the home of the brave. Picture yourself fishing by the river, children passing slowly by on their ATVs, people gathered talking, someone walking their dog, and into the midst of this idyllic, lazy summer day, a white pickup pulls up, someone jumps out and starts shooting indiscriminately,

Pertinent information to avoid pouting

The first North Fork Landowners Association meeting of 2012 was apparently not very well attended. This is not really unusual for June. After all, the majority of landowners are summer residents and not year-rounders. Most NFLA members will be arriving later this month. In addition, quite a few members traveled to the valley this year to attend high school graduations.

Oh deer!

Our state capitol, Helena, has an on-going problem with deer in town, and it even had controlled hunts by game wardens after people were chased, including a paperboy who had to ditch his bike and hide under a car when charged by a large buck.

Bill needed to protect northern border

Congressman Denny Rehberg has taken some heat over his support of H.R. 1505, a bill that strengthens America’s ability to protect itself by securing our borders against illegal aliens, drug and human traffickers, and terrorists.

Jerry Molen is true Montanan

We read with great interest the guest opinion in the Daily Inter Lake published Sunday, May 27, in the Montana Perspectives section in which Mr. Molen was denied talking with the Ronan High School graduating class.

Lakeside fisherman enjoys birthday gift

One Flathead Valley angler got a present he’ll never forget on his traditional birthday fishing trip to Little Bitterroot Lake.

What would our founding fathers have to say about it?

A little over 200 years ago a remarkable group of individuals gathered to write our Constitution and set forth precedent for a nation like no other in history.

America's freedoms are not to be abused

I was appalled to learn that here in Western Montana, where our freedoms are as tenaciously embraced as anywhere in the world, some bigoted, academic administrator in Ronan chose to deny his students the exceptional opportunity to hear the wisdom of a celebrated man willing to share his story of rising from nothing to international fame through old-fashioned hard work and determination.

Environmentalists protest another timber project

Three environmental groups recently filed a lawsuit in federal court to stop forest thinning projects on the Flathead National Forest.

Molen deserves an apology from Ronan

Gerald Molen’s piece in the Inter Lake on May 27 speaks for itself.

There's more to life

I walked out my front door this morning to a couple horses, the sound of a creek, and some singing birds. It’s not the normal greeting I get when I open my front door.

Flathead Electric donation to help Park

Flathead Electric Cooperative recently donated funds to the Glacier National Park Fund through its Roundup For Safety program to help Glacier National Park purchase a military-grade, high-tech, night-vision monocular.

Sun Road opening delayed to next week

Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road won’t open to Logan Pass for vehicles on June 15 as originally anticipated.

City council to take up cell phone ban June 18

The Columbia Falls City Council will take up a proposed ban on the use of handheld mobile communication devices by drivers at their June 18 meeting.

Report uncovers 6,000 unpermitted septic systems

A recently released report on sewage treatment in the Flathead Valley uncovered about 6,000 unpermitted septic systems. That brings the total number of septic systems in the valley not connected to treatment plants to more than 20,000. That translates into about 4.1 million gallons of wastewater every day.

Krueger adds two votes to his slim lead

The number of votes separating the top two finishers in the District 3 Flathead County commissioner Republican primary race remains close enough to allow for a recount, after 109 provisional ballots were added to the vote totals Monday afternoon.

High schools paint boots for fundraiser

Art classes from the Flathead Valley’s six high schools recently competed in Intermountain’s Painted Boot Scoot art competition.

Patriotic music to be performed in downtown Bigfork

Bigfork is known for it’s strong artistic community, whether it’s plays, paintings, sculptures or singing. On Friday a patriotic flair will be added to Bigfork’s repertoire of creative expression with live performances of “The Star Spangled Banner” three times a week and everyone is encouraged to join in with the singing.

School's snub goes national

Bigfork resident and Oscar-winning producer Gerald “Jerry” Molen says he was surprised about the national attention that came about on Friday regarding the story of him being turned away from addressing the Ronan High School graduating class because of his conservative political views.

Summer concert series starts June 21

The Columbia Falls Lions Club Summer Concert Series begins this year on June 21. Anyone or business interested in being a sponsor can call committee chairman Mark Johnson at 314-0200.

Outdoor news

Weed rodeo

Community rallies to support Bilal

The friendly smile and kind words from The Raven’s bartender Kheri Bilal was enough to make anyone’s day a little bit better. The affect he had on the community is visible now that he is in need of their help.

Community news

Senate debate

School news

Perfect attendance

Disputed county boat ramp on Church Slough shut down temporarily

A county boat launch on Church Slough that is the focus of a lawsuit has been temporarily closed by a recent order from Flathead County District Judge Katherine Curtis.

Locals make Dean's Lists at UM, MSU, and FVCC

At The University of Montana, 3,094 students made the spring semester 2012 Dean’s List. To qualify for the Dean’s List, students must be undergraduates, earn a semester grade average of 3.5 or higher and receive grades of A or B in at least nine credits. No grades of C+, C, C-, D+, D, D-, F, NC or NCR are allowed.

Somers-Lakeside School District hires new superintendent

A special meeting of the Lakeside/Somers School District board of trustees was held on June 8 at 7:30 a.m. to negotiate with Paul Jenkins over the conditions involving the district’s new superintendent contract.

Somers School Board reviews budget cuts, discusses future of football

The Lakeside/Somers School Board of trustees held two special meetings last week, the first one was held on Monday, June 4 at 6 p.m. and the second one was held on June 8 at 7:30 a.m. A special meeting had to be called on June 4 because Superintendent Casey Love’s last day as superintendent is at the end of this month and the board needed to appoint a new superintendent before then.

Blacktail Trail must raise $28,000 by July 31

With the funding match for Lakeside to Blacktail trails at almost 30 percent of what’s needed, the Lakeside Community Development Foundation presents three fundraising nights and $5 raffle tickets in their final push to raise the remainder of the funding before the July 31 deadline.

Flathead senate race is most expensive

From commissioner to district judge, lots of personal money invested

Hydroplane racing returns to Coeur d'Alene

Hydroplane rooster tails and boats racing at up to 200 mph will be returning to Lake Coeur d’Alene on Labor Day weekend after a 44-year hiatus with the revived Diamond Cup Regatta.

Big Mountain summer season kicks off June 16

Rain, shine or snow, Whitefish Mountain Resort will start their summer season this Saturday, June 16, with scenic lift rides to the summit, mountain biking, the alpine slide, Walk in the Treetops, a summit nature center and zipline tours.

Cold, wet weather increasing mountain snowpack

Cold and wet weather in May helped increase the statewide snowpack by 17 percent, according to June 1 snow-survey data released by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Bozeman. Individual basins saw snowpack increases as high as 32 percent.

Environmentalists protest another timber project

Bike race near Tally Lake also challenged

Judge rules on registering independent candidates

A federal judge in Helena recently ruled that Montana’s March deadline for registering candidates is too early for independent candidates.

Gun search played role in man's Alford plea

The manner in which a search of a Columbia Falls man’s vehicle was conducted last fall played a role in the plea agreement reached before the man was sentenced.

Brown and Tutvedt win local senate races

District 3 county commissioner race too close to call

Krueger wins county commissioner District 3 primary election

Tony Award winning play comes home

The Alpine Theatre Project brings Terrence McNally’s Tony Award winning “Master Class” back to its Flathead Valley birthplace with Tony Award nominee and Broadway actress Barbara Walsh taking on the part of opera diva Maria Callas.

Eagle Bend treats aquatic invasive species

In May Eagle Bend took the first step toward eradicating curleyleaf pondweed from its channel and harbor by treating them with herbicide.

Landowner questions RSID plans

The question that entered Dennis McDowell’s mind when he heard about the potential for a Rural Special Improvement District in Bigfork is whether or not he would be responsible for paying a tax on each of the 44 storage units he owns.

Lieser, Brown, Tutvedt claim primary wins

Voters Tuesday chose a mix of familiar faces and at least one newcomer in the legislative primary races.

Man charged with having sex with 14-year-old runaway

A 32-year-old Great Falls man is facing a felony charge of sexual intercourse without consent after he allegedly had sex last year with a 14-year-old girl who had run away from Columbia Falls.

Richard A. “Dick” McKay

Richard A. “Dick” McKay passed away on May 29 at the age of 83. He will be sorely missed by all his family and friends.

North Lake moves ahead with draft proposal

The North Lake County Planning and Zoning Committee spoke with Lake County Planning and Zoning Director Joel Nelson to review the changes they made to their re-zoning proposal on June 1 at Glacier Sotheby’s in Bigfork.

Thank you Flathead County veterans

The ceremonies this past Memorial Day brought thousands of people together throughout our country.

Lake County Democrats sets a good example

I’m writing this just before taking off for three weeks in Wisconsin.

The Democrat war on women needs to end now

Enough already!

Corporations are not people

If you disagree with the US Supreme Court’s 2010 Citizens United decision, claiming that corporations are people, be aware of some facts concerning the case.

Dogs knock out Cats at boxing night

Local bartender injured in Mexico, fundraiser set to help with expenses

Bigfork is synonymous with fun and good times, and for many, those happy memories include the smiling face and joyful conversation of bartender Kheri Bilal — the fun-loving man from Zanzibar who could be found pouring drinks for patrons at The Raven in Woods Bay or Whistling Andy’s Distillery in Bigfork.

BHS graduates' scholarships valued at $695,000

Bigfork High School’s class of 2012 graduates’ scholarships have a total value of $695,478.40 if renewed over four years. The total value for their upcoming freshman year alone is $221,769.60.

Graduation doesn't necessarily mean goodbye

As I was taking photos of Bigfork High School’s graduation ceremony last weekend, I couldn’t help but think about how different things are for the graduates of today. I graduated from high school in 2005, so my college experience wasn’t much different from what the 2012 graduates will be entering, after all, the economy tanked while I was enrolled and that dramatically changed the rules.

Chad Kelly Whyard

Todd Dale Bilant

Long-term yard sales reined in

Lakeside Elementary students win bikes for reading

Six Lakeside Elementary students read their way to a new bicycle this year through the Bigfork Masonic Lodge’s Bikes for Books program.

Eco group opposes mountain bike race

Funraiser aims to raise $6,000 for traffic safety

Winning a vacation stay in an Arizona executive home, a three-piece bronze bear sculpture, an instant wine cellar, a Pat Lambrecht Hould original art piece, and more are all possibilities if residents attend the fourth Annual Lucky Fundraiser in Lakeside at the Tamarack Grill and Alehouse on Wednesday, June 13, 5-9 p.m.

SMS track sets new records

Focusing on personal bests was the name of the game for Somers Middle School’s track team, and along the way they broke several school records.

Pertussis case confirmed at Somers Middle School

Flathead City-County Health Department officials have reported three more pertussis (whooping cough) cases, raising the county total to 56 and adding Somers Middle School to the list of affected school districts.

Nine teachers retire from Whitefish schools

Five inducted to high school hall of fame

Five members of the Columbia Falls High School Class of 2012 were recently inducted into the school’s athletic hall of fame.

Sports news

Sports camp

Twins win big and lose big

The Glacier Twins’ rollercoaster season continued last week as the Legion AA club picked up an impressive 10-9 over the Missoula Mavericks and then dropped a conference game to the Kalispell Lakers in a blowout loss.

Williams wins main event at Smoker

The skies grew black, the wind picked up, but the storm moving across the valley fittingly held off until the main event. Then it poured.

Francis McBride

Francis LaVerne McBride, 94, passed away May 31, 2012, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Leonard Wetherelt

Leonard Henry Wetherelt, 70, passed away May 27, 2012, at his home in Columbia Falls, with his family by his side.

Evelyn Hoerner

Evelyn Hoerner, 76, died April 24, 2012, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Harold Gansereit

Harold Clarence Gansereit, 85, of Martin City, passed away May 31, 2012, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Gene Wiley

Gene Wiley, 87, formerly of Martin City, passed away May 25, 2012, at his home in Merrill, Wis.

Albert Lewis

Albert “Algie” Lewis, 80, passed at 11:45 a.m. on Wednesday, May 30, 2012, at North Valley Hospital. He spent his last day joking with his wife, daughter, son-in-law, granddaughter and brother. 

The Park needs more parking

I read that due to the success of the shuttle bus service, there is an overload of visitors in prime areas of Glacier National Park.

Remembering Decoration Day and Memorial Day

Many of us remember Decoration Day with annual visit to area cemeteries to decorate the graves. This also involved cleaning the graves as each family was responsible for plots.

Equal Access to Injustice Act

“Justice” has long been a core value and the legal backbone of American society. Its tenets are woven into the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights. These documents protect our natural rights of liberty and property, guarantees a number of personal freedoms, and limits the government’s power in judicial and other proceedings. However, to sue the federal government in an effort to protect these rights, one has to have pretty deep pockets. We would all agree that the lack of financial means should not bar access to protect our rights in court.

Red saplings in aren't dying

Federal and state forestry offices and several retired foresters have been inundated with calls from concerned North Fork residents in the last couple of weeks.

No signs of Snooki while surf fishing

Not a cloud in the sky. Eighty-eight degrees at 10 a.m. Slight breeze coming off the ocean. Surf rods in their PVC holders, tips bent toward the water. Soaking up sun, sitting on a lawn chair.

Life and death in the natural world

Last week, I found two birds on the sidewalk. They were less than a day old, featherless, tiny and dead. It’s that time of year when many are born and many die. Nature might look cruel to us at times, but it’s efficient and it works.

Park plowing slowed by weather

Just a few weeks ago, Glacier National Park officials were hoping they’d have plows at Logan Pass by now. Mother Nature, however, had other plans.

Grizzly bear delisting now in sight

The first step in removing grizzly bears from Endangered Species Act listing in much of Northwest Montana likely will begin late this summer.

Hotel's $10 million project comes to a close

There was a sense of urgency at the Many Glacier Hotel last week as construction crews bustled about making last-minute repairs and moving crews unpacked boxes and boxes of supplies, furniture and all the other amenities that make the lodge one of the premier destinations in Glacier National Park.

Remains of missing Park hiker ID'd

The tale of a man from Malaysia who went missing in Glacier National Park in 2008 has come to a close. Park officials last week said an analysis of bone fragments found last summer matched those of Yi-Jien Hwa.

Friday hikes in Glacier Park

The Glacier National Park Fund will host hikes in Glacier National Park on Fridays through the summer.

Third of four casino bandits sentenced

Three of the four people charged with robbing a casino on U.S. 2 south of Columbia Falls have been sentenced. The fourth was handled in juvenile court.

Outdoor news

Wolf meeting

School and military news

Metals class

Community news

Dance show

Perseverance pays off for student mom

From the beginning, Leesa Dougherty was determined to graduate on time. But the challenges faced by one local teen wife and mother caused some doubt along the way. Despite her misgivings, Dougherty defied the odds and graduated on Saturday with the Columbia Falls High School Class of 2012.

Ceremony to unveil high-mark sign for 1964 Flood

Plans are in the works to erect a sign commemorating the 1964 Flood where South Nucleus Avenue dead-ends at the Flathead River.

Friday hikes in Glacier Park slated

The Glacier National Park Fund will host hikes in Glacier National Park on Fridays through the summer. The goal is to share Park accomplishments supported by GNPF donors, talk about upcoming events or activities and to experience the grandeur of Glacier Park. To sign up, e-mail glacierfund@glacierfund.org or call 892-3250.

Weather, avalanches slow plowing on Sun Road

Glacier National Park snow plowing crews continue to clear the Going-to-the-Sun Road after recent spring storms brought 16 new inches of snow, lots of rain, wind and fog in the past week.

John Wilson Otis

John Wilson Otis, of Whitefish, passed away May 26, 2012. He was born December 24, 1938 in Seattle.

Man sentenced in Nite Owl machete case

The 52-year-old Columbia Falls man who allegedly wielded a knife and a machete in the Nite Owl restaurant on Sept. 10, 2011, was sentenced to 10 years with five suspended with the Montana Department of Corrections.

Hungry Horse man sentenced for drug possession

A Hungry Horse man was given a five-year deferred sentence for possession of methamphetamine. Flathead County District Court Judge Stewart Stadler also ordered Jason Elliot to pay a $1,000 fine, $800 in public defenders fees, a $160 surcharge fee and supervision fees while on probation.

Roofing contractor sentenced to prison

A 50-year-old Washington man accused of defrauding homeowners and media in Flathead County was sentenced to prison in federal court in Missoula last week.

Second weekend of racing at Montana Raceway Park

The first month of racing is underway at Montana Raceway Park and some great point battles will take place Saturday evening.

DUI conviction upheld by supreme court

The Montana Supreme Court on March 6 upheld the conviction of a Columbia Falls man last year for his fifth DUI.