Ellington

District 1 music festival results

Flathead and Glacier high schools hosted the 2013 District No. 1 Music Festival on April 18-20. Students represented high schools across Northwest Montana. 

School news

Grad party

Bipartisan approach to forest management

The state legislature gaveled to a close last week, a couple days shy of the 90 days maximum set by law. Even though there were numerous media articles regarding the hot button topics of taxes and tax reform, pay bands and pensions, Medicaid expansion and so forth, legislation pertaining to forestry and forest management (not being the issue de jour) never made the press.

New ports important for Montana ag

Montana exports had a record year in 2012. Led by grain, Montana exported more than $2.48 billion in high value grain last year. We’re producing products and commodities that the world wants, and all our communities benefit from the resulting jobs, economic growth and tax revenue.

Taking stock: Governor, leaders assess 2013 Legislature

Montana’s 2013 Legislature had barely adjourned last week when state leaders from both major parties began chalking up the session’s successes and failures.

Plea to not fire Agency on Aging director

I write this as a plea to Flathead County Commissioners Pam Holmquist and Gary Kruger not to push for termination of Lisa Shepherd, director of the County Agency on Aging. As well, I ask local residents to voice their support for Lisa Tuesday morning when the commissioners will decide whether or not to retain her. It will be a great loss to our valley, especially to local seniors, if Shepherd is prohibited from serving the people of our valley in her selfless manner.

PSC opposes proposed greenhouse gas regulations

The Montana Public Service Commission recently went on record unanimously opposing a federal agency’s proposed rules to restrict greenhouse gas emissions for new power plants, particularly coal-fired generators.

Managing wolves

After 832F, a radio-collared 6-year-old alfa female wolf, was needlessly shot by hunters earlier this winter, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials closed areas around Yellowstone National Park to hunting and trapping wolves. Thank you FWP.  

Cool spring is maintaining mountain snowpack

A cool spring in Northwest Montana has kept an above average snowpack clinging to the mountains, yet the potential for local flooding remains unlikely.

Federal budget cuts could impact trail work

Local Forest Service officials aren’t talking

Do the county commissioners have a heart?

The following letter was sent to the Flathead County Commissioners.

Governor signs bill on repeat DUI offenders

Gov. Steve Bullock signed Attorney General Tim Fox’s bill aimed at cracking down on repeat DUI offenders on April 26.

Arbor Day: More than just a day to plant trees

Editor’s note: Arbor Day will be celebrated in Columbia Falls at River’s Edge Park on Friday, May 3, at noon with fifth-graders from Glacier Gateway Elementary School helping to plant trees.

Medicaid, dark money and reappraisal bills fall

The 63rd Montana Legislature came to a close in a flurry of last-minute activity last week as the state budget bill was finalized.

Max to Montanans: Let's get to work

Serving you is the greatest privilege of my life. Over the past 40 years, I’ve had one goal — make life better for the people of this state.

No hiker-biker restrictions on Sun Road this weekend

More sections of Glacier National Park roads are now open. The Inside North Fork Road is open to Doverspike Meadow through Big Prairie. The Two Medicine Road is plowed, but it’s only open to Running Eagle Falls.

The moderate majority

Here’s to working together. Here’s to the slow, arduous pursuit of compromise. Here’s to the overlooked, underappreciated, unglamorous middle ground. These days, we hear so much from the fringes that it’s easy to forget that progress is possible.

Mountain snowpack above average

A cool spring in Northwest Montana has kept an above average snowpack clinging to the mountains, yet the potential for local flooding remains unlikely.

River honoring May 6 on lower Flathead River

The Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes announces the 2013 River Honoring event begins Monday, May 6

FVCC president Jane Karas to speak at Lakeside chamber lunch

The Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce meeting is Tuesday, April 30th at Noon at the Vista Linda in Somers.

Whole New Way to Shop For Health Insurance Coming in October 2013

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Spartan obstacle race to be held in Bigfork

A four-mile obstacle race involving mud, fire, wall-climbing, spear-throwing, sandbag-carrying and a gladiator throwdown is scheduled to take place south of Bigfork on Saturday, May 11.

Backs commissioner for Agency on Aging vote

I apologize to Flathead County Commissioner Cal Scott. Before he was elected I wrote letters in opposition of him to the media. At that time, I did not believe he would make a good commissioner. However, after attending a commissioner meeting April 24, my opinion of Commissioner Scott has changed. My initial judgment of you was wrong, Commissioner Scott.

Oren Ford

Oren O. Ford, 79, of Columbia Falls, passed away on April 23, 2013, from a lengthy illness. He was born Dec. 29, 1933, to Lester Wilson Ford and Mary Ellen Ford.

Rosalie Keys

Rosalie A. Keys, 65, of Columbia Falls, died April 21, 2013, in Kalispell.

Mother's Day Guide: How to Choose the Best Gift for Her

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Reconsider name change to Twins tourney

I’m writing this letter in regards to the article (Whitefish Pilot, April 3) stating that the Glacier Twins Legion baseball program is renaming the Sapa/Johnsrud Memorial Tournament to the Glacier Twins Memorial Tournament.

Basketball coaching dilemma

I would like to make three important points regarding the girls basketball coach not being rehired:

WHS 2013 Talent Show

Lady Dogs hang with state champs

The Lady Bulldog tennis team held their own Saturday against the defending state champions. The Lady Pirates prevailed 4-3 in the conference dual, but Whitefish left Polson knowing they can hang with one of the best teams they’ll face all season.

County declines to participate in 93 South study

Flathead County won’t participate in a study for the U.S. 93 South corridor that runs through the two-mile planning “doughnut” outside Whitefish, the county commissioners said Monday.

Change needed in the sign code

The recent letters and phone calls strongly point out the need for a third party review of the U.S. 93 South corridor. If something as small as a movable sign generates this much publicity there is a need for change.

Making a racquet

It’s not a stretch to say that Mingo Guerrero is trying to pass his love of racquetball onto a younger generation.

2012 a record year for tourism

The numbers are in: Out-of-state tourists came to Montana last year in record numbers — and they spent a record amount of money.

Robert “Wayne” McFadden

Robert “Wayne” McFadden, 84, passed away early April 2 at his home in Kalispell due to complications of Parkinson’s disease.

Police calls: Man loses lip ring, punches window

Dogs dominate at Libby track meet

Whitefish was a dominate force Saturday as both the boys and girls track teams won overall titles at the Libby Invitational.

'We the People' deserve more

In a respectful response to Rep. Ed Leiser’s recent article on the workings of the Montana Legislature, I would offer the following commentary for consideration.

No clear consensus on parking structure

Plans for a combined downtown parking structure and city hall garnered mixed reviews from both Whitefish City Councilors and the public at a recent work session. There remains no clear consensus of support or disapproval of the proposed $9 million project after final review of the feasibility and design study.

What you see is not what you get

When it comes to a school board trustee, what you see is not what you get.

Minor changes to sign code considered

The Whitefish City-County Planning Board April 18 agreed to examine the city sign code and look for ways to update the regulations while still leaving the document largely intact. 

Hospital begins $1M expansion

North Valley Hospital in Whitefish broke ground last week on a fourth operating suite needed to keep pace with a surgery volume that has increased 22 percent over the past four years.

Softball crushes Browning at plate

Whitefish’s softball team put a notch in the win column last week with a 23-2 beat down at home against Browning. Senior Andrea Lamaroux threw a 1-hitter in a stellar outing from the pitching circle.

Whitefish 8-year-old learns to live with juvenile arthritis

A smile spreads across Hannah Gesek’s face when she talks about animals and drawing. Seemingly like most 8-year-olds, she bubbles with excitement to tell a visitor about the stuffed animal under her arm. What’s not obvious is that Hannah suffers from a disease most often associated with older adults.

Pigeon Forge Theaters Give Life to Local Music

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Tester speaks about his gun vote

Earlier this month, I met with the families of the shooting victims at Sandy Hook Elementary School. It was a heart-wrenching meeting. I couldn’t help but think of my kids and my grandkids as I listened to the families’ tragic stories.

Fishing Fraternity: close bonds formed in Mack Days fishing tournament

Fishing has a way of making friends.

Let It Grow: Brosten farm planting project controls erosion

Some things grow on you.

Busy Building: Youth with a Mission construction crews stay busy

It’s been five years and counting for David Garrigan, the facilities manager at Youth With A Mission in Lakeside, and he’s loving it.

How Chiropractic Care Helped One Man Get His Wiggle Back

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Regier explains vote against Medicaid expansion

The 63rd Montana Legislature is in its last week. One issue that has received a large amount of attention this session is Medicaid expansion. There have been some bills that address this topic.

Recipes to Fill Up Without Filling Out

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Kats drop Libby, do well at Kalispell tourney

It was a busy week of tennis for Columbia Falls as the teams played a slew of matches in weather that was often less than friendly.

Cats hone track times, Osborne wins at home

Josiah Osborne won three races on a blustery day at home April 16 as Columbia Falls hosted a track meet with Libby, Whitefish and Eureka.

Wildkats split the bill, Libby game rained out

The Columbia Falls softball team split a nonconference bill last week, losing to Flathead High School 6-4 at home, but bouncing back to beat Stevensville away over the weekend, 11-0.

News from 1948: $100,000 improves water system

Unusual vote tally showing 137 favoring and only one opposing meant a new $100,000 improved water system for Columbia Falls in a special election. There were 201 registered voters in 1948.

Study will look at bees in burned areas

Over the past 20 years, from Yellowstone National Park to Glacier, large wildfires have continuously transformed the landscape. Now a Montana State University bee researcher has plans for a three-year study of the burns and the bees and plants that grow back in a post-fire world across western Montana.

Glacier Park news

Prescribed burn

Outdoor news

ALERT banquet

Broadband coming to St. Mary - eventually

St. Mary will finally see broadband Internet access, although it may take awhile to actually be implemented.

2012: A record tourist year

The numbers are in: Out-of-state tourists came to Montana last year in record numbers — and they spent a record amount of money.

C-Falls man sentenced for injuring infant girl

A 21-year-old Columbia Falls man was sentenced to seven years in prison, all suspended, after he pleaded guilty in a child abuse case.

Tester talks sales tax and gun votes

Sen. Jon Tester said last week he’s concerned about a bill being considered by Congress that would require states with no sales tax like Montana to collect it for states that have a sales tax.

Canyon project foreclosed

Judge orders subdivision to be auctioned

Community news

Free meals

One good eye is enough for Olympic sharp shooter

Tyler Volkman practices shooting his air pistol about six to eight hours a week. He shoots in his grandfather’s shop, at the 4-H shooting range at the fairgrounds, or inside his grandparents’ house.

Students organize drug prevention program

Three Columbia Falls High School students interested in careers in the health industry have organized a drug-prevention program targeting junior high students.

93 West corridor study moves forward

Whitefish City Councilors awarded a contract for the U.S. 93 West Corridor Plan to WGM Group, despite recommendations to accept the lowest bidder.

Northwest Ballet presents Sleeping Beauty in Bigfork

The Northwest Ballet Company presents its 33rd Annual Spring Show Production, "Sleeping Beauty" on Mother's Day Weekend at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Jason Mahlen leads Mack Days

Jason Mahlen continues his lead in the 2013 Spring Mack Days fishing tournament with 993 lake trout entries at the half way mark of the event. 

PEO offers scholarships for women

Women seeking education beyond high school have an opportunity to apply for one of eight financial awards for continuing her advanced education. 

Hot Water Shouldn't Require a Tank or Schedule

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Sports news

B-ball tourney

Tributes pour in for Baucus

Gov. Steve Bullock made the following statement on Sen. Max Baucus’ announcement that he won’t run for re-election in 2014:

Cold temperatures set new records

Brrrrr. It sure got cold last week. The temperature dropped to 16 degrees at Glacier Park International Airport the morning of April 17, tying a record set in 1968, according the National Weather Service. Missoula also dipped to 16 degrees, wrecking the previous record of 19 degrees set in 1896.

Wolf jargon

There are hidden meanings in the article “Wolf numbers: Still higher than recovery goals” in the April 17 issue of the Hungry Horse News.

Wolf politics

In response to the Mr. Peck letter, I say enough is enough. These folks, like Mr. Peck and all the rest of his wolf lovers, have never once bought a hunting license or anything else that has produced the game animal levels through professional management.

Ski resort announces season pass prices

Whitefish Mountain Resort’s 2013-14 adult winter season pass will sell at an early-season rate of $595 through Sept. 30. The price is a $15 increase over last season’s rate of $580.

Glacier Lanes bowling results

Glacier Lanes Bowling

Raft company honored with Eco Award

Glacier Guides and Montana Raft Company will be recognized at the state capital with an Eco Star Award on April 24 by Montana State University and the Montana Governor’s office for their 2012 pollution prevention efforts. Eco-Star Awards are given to small businesses in Montana that have shown great effort over the past year in pollution prevention.

FWP sued for allowing trapping in lynx habitat

Environmental groups have sued Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to stop certain trapping methods in lynx habitat. The federal lawsuit claims lynx end up being caught and sometimes killed in the process, in violation of the Endangered Species Act.

Farmers market bills passed in legislature

The 2013 session was the one which took small steps to take our food supply back and loosen the government control at our dinner tables. Backyard gardens and the value of fresh products are touted on bumper stickers across this state: Who’s your farmer?

Protests name change for baseball tourney

The following letter was sent to the Glacier Twins Legion baseball team’s board.

Trends in Natural Color Diamonds Shine in Everyday Fashion

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Gauging Internet Marketing Efforts and Results

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Blasdel does not represent the people

The estimates are that approximately 12,000 Flathead Valley residents and approximately 20 percent of all Montanans currently do not have access to health insurance. It appears these folks may not have an option of affordable health care anytime in the near future, if several Flathead Republicans have their way.

Supreme Court explains water compact decision

Unanimous ruling claims issues incorrectly addressed

Obama: 'This has been a tough week.'

The following statement about the capture of the suspect in the Boston Marathon bombings was made by President Barack Obama in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room on April 19, 2013.

Ski resort to begin work on Flower Point chairlift

Whitefish Mountain Resort will begin clearing timber on the north side of the ski area this summer in preparation for installation of a new chairlift to Flower Point.

Hungry Horse man sentenced for knife incident

A 22-year-old Hungry Horse man was sentenced to 10 years with the Montana Department of Corrections with five suspended after he pleaded guilty Dec. 6, 2012, to felony assault with a weapon.

Flower Point chairlift work to begin this summer

Whitefish Mountain Resort will begin clearing timber on the ski area’s north side this summer in preparation for a new chairlift to Flower Point.

Bullock speaks about losing Medicaid expansion

The following statement on Medicaid expansion was made by Gov. Steve Bullock during a press conference in Helena on April 19, 2013.

Legislature doesn't ratify CSKT water compact

Tribes say they might take matter to court

Valkyries down Flathead in tennis

Following some tough competition at Kalispell last week, the Bigfork High School tennis teams will travel to Whitefish on Thursday before hosting the Bigfork Flight Tournament on Saturday.

Bigfork High School calendar of events

All students will be released at 1:00 p.m.

Armstrong Williams: Giving Back to the Industry He Loves

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Ground Zero: New studies show Somers contamination larger than expected

A groundwater remedy at the former Burlington Northern tie plant in Somers is “not even close,” Diana Hammer, the Environmental Protection Agency’s project manager for Somers, said last week.

Birthday Girl: Maggie Pontius turns 99

She was a mover and a shaker in her day.

Hot Tickets: Bigfork Summer Playhouse announces lineup for 2013

With seven returning actors and a strong slate of musicals, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse enters its 54th season in fine fashion.

Turkey hunter shoots at charging grizzly bear

A turkey hunter shot at a charging grizzly bear Sunday near Creston.

Snowpack slightly below normal

Entering the month of March most basins around the state of Montana were near to slightly below normal, with the St. Mary-Milk River Basin having the highest percentage of basin normal at 108 percent, and the Bitterroot River Basin with the lowest percentage at 85 percent, according to snow survey data from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.

2013 Creston Auction

Highlights from the Creston Auction

North Shore Nordic Club caps successful year

The North Shore Nordic Club recently capped its best season ever, with more skiers and additional funding to help keep the crosscountry center near Echo Lake open during low snow years.

Spartan Race to attract thousands to Bigfork

More than 3,000 people have registered for Bigfork’s May 11-12 running of Montana’s first Spartan Race, an obstacle course event that could feature mud, fire, wall-climbing, spear-throwing, sandbag-carrying, a gladiator throwdown and other challenging surprises.

Obama speaks about Senate vote on gun laws

President Barack Obama made the following statement a the White House on April 17, 2013, following the U.S. Senate’s vote on changing gun laws.

Eleanor Landsberger

Eleanor (Stramer, Shea) Landsberger, 91, passed away peacefully at the home of her son Bernie Shea in Polson on April 12, 2013.

Summer Pest Protection for Your Pets

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WHS project moves ahead despite budget overages

Higher than expected contractor bids in the second phase for the remodel of Whitefish High School has the project sitting above cost estimates. However, the school board approved the bid package, along with a plan to deal with the issue if savings aren’t found in the final phase of the project.

Lady Dogs sweep Libby in tennis

The Lady Bulldogs kicked off their tennis season with a clean sweep of conference foe Libby at home, winning all seven matches in two sets. The dual win marked the beginning of an impressive week for a team with high expectations.

Whitefish eyed as possible home for $70M resort

Developers have turned their focus to Whitefish as the possible home for a $70 million resort with a convention center and 150-room upscale hotel.

Being Earnest

My wife, myself and friends attended the current Whitefish Theatre Company production of “The Importance of Being Earnest.”

Parliamentary procedures abused

Representing Whitefish over the past 70 days has been a wonderful experience in many ways. I’ve learned a tremendous amount about how our government functions and met some great people that are intelligent, unselfish and devoted to what they think is best for Montana.

Police calls: String of vehicle break-ins reported

Softball solid at plate in loss to Libby

Whitefish’s softball team put the bat to the ball in last week’s game against Libby, but struggled to turn baserunners into points on the scoreboard.

Boys tennis picks up win at Hamilton

The pieces are starting to fall into place for Whitefish’s boys tennis team after playing three duals in as many days last week.

School board election profile: Nick Polumbus

Nick Polumbus wants to make sure curriculum in the schools is the best it can be and that it will prepare students for the future. It’s one of the main reasons he is running for a spot on the Whitefish School Board.

Harwood qualifies in 400

Senior runner Logan Harwood overcame blustery conditions to post an impressive day on the track at last week’s Flathead Time Trials in Kalispell.

School district will run $36,000 levy

The Whitefish School District is asking voters to approve a $36,000 levy to help with a tight budget that is anticipated if there is no increase in funding from the state.

Support our school district

As President of the Whitefish Community Foundation, I am extremely proud of the relationship that the Foundation has with our school district.

Karla West

Karla West

School board election profile: Ruth Harrison

Incumbent Whitefish School District Board member Ruth Harrison says she wants to continue serving because she feels she still has a worthwhile perspective to offer.

Dog-Cat swim team approved

A joint swim team for Whitefish and Columbia Falls high schools finally has local approval.

School board election profile: Karla West

Karla West says her career in education and work with nonprofit organizations would be helpful in overseeing the school district if elected as a Whitefish School Board trustee.

Costain wins freeskiing finals

Whitefish freeskier Parkin Costain, 13, wrapped up his season with a first place finish in Revelstoke, B.C., at the International Freeskiing Association North American Championships.

Ruth Harrison

Ruth Harrison

Nick Polumbus

Nick Polumbus

WEST shown in Bigfork

The Bigfork Community Players present “West,”  April 12-14 and 19-21 at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Fishing guide shares 'Flathead Lake monster' story on national tv show

For over 100 years people have claimed to see the Flathead Lake monster, which some say is a monster-sized fish that lurks in the depths of Flathead Lake.

Elusive animals targeted in winter carnivore study

Imagine tracking rare and elusive carnivore in winter.  That’s what a group of three wildlife biologists and four interns were doing the first three months of this winter, hoping to find carnivores like lynx, wolverines and fisher in the 1.5-million-acre  southwest portion of the Crown of the Continent ecosystem.

Gun control demagogy

Demagogues offend us because they try to bypass our rational faculty with appeals to gut emotion. That pretty well sums up what gun controllers have done since the Newtown tragedy.

More on wolves

In response to the Mr. Peck letter, I say enough is enough. These folks, like Mr. Peck and all the rest of his wolf lovers, have never once bought a hunting license or anything else that has produced the game animal levels through professional management.

Blacktail Ski Area finishes record season

It’s 15 years and counting for Blacktail Mountain Ski Area and general manager Steve Spencer isn’t looking back.

Julie Shumpert

Julie Dawn Shumpert, 57, of Coram, passed away April 13, 2013. “The Great Spirit came to take his child home with him.”

Groups seek cooperative effort for Blacktail Mountain trail systems

Although funding is tied up in federal budget cuts, the U.S. Forest Service is proceeding with plans to add new motorized and non-motorized trails in the Blacktail Island Unit west of Lakeside.

Investing in Bigfork: couple pursues dream of smalltown life

It was Christmas 2011 when Renny Johnson and his family had their “aha” moment. Johnson and his wife, Sarah, had been working the corporate life for years in places like Chicago and San Francisco when they finally decided they’d had enough. They had spent vacation time the last 17 years in Bigfork with Johnson’s parents, Ray and Kathy, who own a horse ranch here.

Seeing the Light: new lights installed in Bigfork

The Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork has seen the light.

Eagle scout creates new sign for Bigfork High School

An eagle that soared over Bigfork High School last week could have signified approval of Keegan Driver’s Eagle Scout project.

Building a Dream: Community Crossroads memorial garden

Kelly Ware looks out over the bare, sandy soil behind Crossroads Christian Church and sees a vision of a lovely garden of fruit and berry trees.

Ground ZERO: contamination larger than expected in Somers

A groundwater remedy at the former Burlington Northern tie plant in Somers is “not even close,” Diana Hammer, the Environmental Protection Agency’s project manager for Somers, said last week.

Flathead Lake Lodge finds a new way to feed its critters

The days of bucking hay bales may be over at Flathead Lake Lodge.

Being prepared is topic of April 18 talk

Wayne Loffler, Bigfork Fire Chief will talk about 72-hour emergency kits April 18 at 7 p.m. at the Bigfork Elementary School Cafeteria.

Lucille Helton

Lucille Helton, 98, died April 13, 2013, in Columbia Falls.

Joint C-Falls, Whitefish swim team approved

A joint swim team for Whitefish and Columbia Falls high schools finally has local approval.

Kats go 1-2 on the week

The Columbia Falls softball team went 1-2 on the week, but the losses were games they could have just as easily won with another hit or two.

Tennis teams battle foul weather at season's start

The weather was decidedly unfriendly last week, with rain, wind and snow, but the Columbia Falls tennis teams still got some action in.

Strong performances at Kalispell, Missoula

The weather was lousy, but the performances improved. The Wildcats had some good showings at the Flathead Time Trials in a non-scoring meet on April 9 and the Missoula Invitation April 13.

Sports news

Swim team

Link's gun was a semi-automatic

I really enjoyed G. George Ostrom’s recent column “Recalling the death of Slim Link.” I wrote two different versions of this same story back in 1988. The scariest version was Matt Brill’s.

The loathsome tabloid caper

Editor: The following column ran in the Jan. 4, 2007, Hungry Horse News.

Child prostitution charges dismissed

Felony charges have been dismissed all around in the case of a mother accused of letting a Columbia Falls man have sex with her 13-year-old daughter in exchange for drugs.

Spring break fishing adventures on home waters

In late February, my brother from Iowa sent me a video of a fishing show featuring spring walleye fishing on the Rainy River. The Rainy River connects Rainy Lake and Lake of the Woods on the Minnesota-Ontario border.

Wolf numbers: Still higher than recovery goals

Wolf pack numbers were up but the number of gray wolves were down across the Rocky Mountain west in 2012, according to an annual report last week released by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Outdoor news

Park history

Park gearing up for Sun Road corridor study

Glacier National Park soon will begin public scoping on how best to manage the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor in the coming years, interim superintendent Kym Hall said last week.

Animals central to quilter's themes

When Gloria Day was a young girl, she wasn’t allowed to ride the horses on the family spread in Washington. Her parents said they were too dangerous. But Day taught herself to ride when her parents went to town and she had the place to herself.

School news

Election canceled

Lawsuit filed against Vets Home, police

Family claims veteran died as a result of being Tased by police

Community news

Co-op election

The colorful life of a park ranger

One night, former Glacier National Park ranger Charlie Logan got a phone call. There’d been a report of a man run over by a train not far from the Walton Ranger Station where Logan lived at the time.

Green energy

I am writing this letter in response to an e-mail sent out April 9 by Sen. Max Baucus regarding his agenda for creating jobs in Montana.

Wolf concerns

Congratulations Brian Peck for your astute observations in the April 10 issue of the Hungry Horse News about the lack of forethought of the Montana Legislature.

Our food is safer than ever

Summertime is almost upon us. For most Americans, the warmer weather brings picnics in the park, BBQs and grilling out with family and friends. It also brings the increased chance for foodborne illness to occur if safe food preparation and handling is not given full attention. 

Independent high school holds restaurant nights

Reservations required by April 19

Students at Whitefish Independent High School will once again transform the school into a restaurant next week when The Kiwi Kabana opens for two nights.

Obama speaks about the Boston bombings

The following statement about the bombings in Boston were made by President Barack Obama on April 16, 2013.

County landfill by the numbers

There was some good news in the Flathead County Solid Waste District’s report for fiscal year 2012 — the amount of waste hauled to the landfill was down, recycling costs were improving thanks to commodity prices, and more landfill gas was being burned to generate electrical power.

Work targets aquatic invaders

While funding sources for a bill revising aquatic invasive species management are sorted out in the Montana Legislature, other efforts are underway to control the spread of zebra mussels and other nonnative species in Montana waters.

Recognizing America's pioneering athlete

Jackie Robinson’s birthday earlier this week reminds us of a cool fall evening — Aug. 28, 1945, when the 26-year-old former Army lieutenant who had been court marshaled for refusing orders to sit in the back of an Army bus, walked to 215 Sukeforth Street in Brooklyn, the office of the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team, Mr. Branch Rickey.

Crowdfunding Tackles Student Debt Crisis

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William Engle

William “Bill” LaPierre Engle, 74 of Kalispell, died Dec. 29, 2012, surrounded by family at the home of his daughter near Gillette, Wyo.

Shannon Hallas

Shannon Paige Hallas, 37, of Columbia Falls, left her loved ones on April 9, 2013 to find a better challenge.

Questions about the future of stream access

Is stream access doomed? That is the question sportsmen are whispering across Big Sky Country as a special interest group pushes a bridge access case it lost through the state appellate court.

Turkey hunter runs into grizzly near hatchery

A turkey hunter ran into a grizzly bear adult and two grizzly yearlings near the Creston National Fish Hatchery on Saturday morning, April 13.

Mother recalls events at Sandy Hook

The following remarks were made by Francine Wheeler at the White House on April 13 as part of President Barack Obama’s weekly address.

Pediatric Cancer Landscape Calls for Global Outreach

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Harold Strey

Harold F. Strey, 95, died April 10, 2013, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Daines speaks against Senate gun regulations

The following comments were made April 11, 2013, by Rep. Steve Daines on gun ownership regulations proposed in the U.S. Senate

Edna Minehan

Edna F. Minehan, 83, passed away peacefully at home in Columbia Falls on April 9, 2013, under the hospice care of her daughter Kathy Wright. A survivor of both breast cancer and lymphoma, she lost her battle with leukemia.

Major highway reconstruction project begins

An extensive reconstruction project on U.S. 93 West between Lupfer and Karrow Avenue is currently underway. Minor traffic impacts likely will begin Monday morning, April 15.

Connolly wins national boardercross race

Local snowboarder Baylan Connolly took first place in the 18-22 age group boardercross races at the USASA National Championships last week at Copper Mountain in Colorado.

Rhodes-Maldonado and Miclette engaged

Tia Rhodes-Maldonado, of Whitefish, and Douglas Miclette, of Baltic, Conn., announce their April, 2013 engagement.

WHS Booster Auction set for April 19

Whitefish High School Booster Club’s annual spring auction is set for Friday, April 19 at 6 p.m. at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.

Police calls: Toddler escapes through window

A wild day in the Senate

Being part of Montana history in the Senate certainly wasn’t on my radar screen when running for office a year ago.

Gerald Wolfe

Gerald Wolfe passed away Saturday, April 6 at the Montana Veteran’s Home in Columbia Falls.

Suby drivers unite

As a proud Subaru owner for the past 12 years, I would like to publicly ask other Labrador-retriever-co-piloting, ski-and-bike-rack-toting, “Who’s-your-farmer?”-bumper-stickering drivers of this beloved vehicle to form a united front. 

Resort sets record for skier visits

A blast of sideways snow with a touch of sun. Powder up top and corn snow down low. It’s only fitting that the season’s final weekend of skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort was defined by a mixed bag of conditions.

Cheers goes to Kathy Cozad

Kathy Cozad gives of her time and talent by volunteering with many Whitefish organizations.

James Henry Fulkerson

James Henry Fulkerson , 84, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family at his side on April 3, after a short, but courageous battle with cancer.

Memorial scholarship honors former teacher

Liz Nelson is remembered as “always upbeat, loving and laughing.”

Welcome to Clutterville

I’m writing to urge the Whitefish City Council members not to revise the Whitefish sign code, and especially NOT to empower a group of self-interested business owners to have any special review powers or in any way pretend to speak for the good folks of Whitefish as a whole.

FVCC hosts logger sports competition

Flathead Valley Community College’s national champion logger sports team will host its annual Stumpjumper Days home competition at the college’s Logger Sports Arena on Saturday, April 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

Howard Berry

Howard A. “ Howie” Berry passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 24.

Mannequin reignites sign code talks

A sign-waving, motorized mannequin at the Don K car dealership appears to have sparked a broader discussion about Whitefish’s sign code and the desire for a planning study of the U.S. 93 South corridor.

Flathead state's 7th most healthy county

Flathead County is the seventh healthiest county in Montana according to a recently released study that looks at health factors, access to clinical care and other social and economic factors.

The case against Medicaid expansion

The proponents of Medicaid expansion are unabashedly brandishing their rhetoric-based talking points claiming the measure would do everything from creating thousands of jobs to bringing revenue to our state.

Obama speaks about his budget proposal

The following remarks about the fiscal year 2014 budget were made in the White House Rose Garden on April 10, 2013.

The absurdity of “universal” background checks

Those who favor “universal” background checks on gun buyers make some ridiculous arguments. For example, opponents correctly point out that gun buyers with criminal intent will always find channels that require no background check. Gunrunning is among the oldest professions, and the black market will always be with us. Thus the promise of universal background checks — even if that were a legitimate government activity — is a fraud, because universality can’t possibly be achieved.

Lighting the way in Bigfork: Project aims to cut down on light pollution

The Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork has “seen the light” and recenty begun implementing some light pollution controls downtown.

Bigfork tennis beats Ronan

The Bigfork High School girls tennis team is off to a good start.

Leonard Holcomb

Leonard M. “Bud” Holcomb, 89, passed away April 2, 2013, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.

Neil Dodge

Neil Joseph Dodge, 81, died April 5, 2013, at home with his wife Carol by his side.

Phyllis Darling

Phyllis Taylor Darling, 81, passed away March 18, 2013, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Bruce Stewart

Bruce I. Stewart passed away April 4, 2013, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home of natural causes.

George Marsh

George R. Marsh, 72, of Kalispell, passed away at his home on March 29, 2013.

Budget talk in the North Fork

National news doesn’t normally have more than conversational impact on the North Fork. We follow events and vote even though we know there will be little change here, at least in the short term.

Concrete block town hall project

Completion of the new Columbia Falls concrete block town hall at the top of Nucleus Avenue hill was main topic in January 1948. 

Making and breaking laws

Editor: The following column was run in the June 30, 2005, Hungry Horse News.

Senior thanks

The North Valley Senior Center would like to take this opportunity to thank all the businesses in our hometown. They have generously supported the North Valley Senior Center through gift card donations to be used in our basket raffles.

Twins rename annual memorial tournament

The Glacier Twins Legion baseball program has decided to rename its summer tournament the Glacier Twins Memorial Tournament.

Practical tips for backcountry first aid

Say you’ve cut yourself badly in the backcountry. The wound is bleeding profusely and you don’t have any bandages. The best place to start is probably a shirt — and not just by tearing off a sleeve. If one cuts the shirt in a circular motion from the bottom, you get foot after foot of bandage, with little work.

Two down-to-earth fly fishing books reviewed

Two good fly fishing books are reviewed this week. The first covers everything a beginner needs to know to start fly fishing, and the second covers the best fly fishing rivers in Montana.

Outdoor news

Wilderness talks

Park hiker to raise funds, awareness for diabetes

When most folks go for a hike in Glacier National Park, they take along water, a lunch and extra clothes in case the weather takes a turn.

EPA to begin CFAC investigation

The Environmental Protection Agency assured Sen. Jon Tester in a March 26 letter that the federal agency will conduct a Superfund site assessment of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. smelter site.

CPA pleads guilty in RBM Lumber case

A 66-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty in federal court last week to wire fraud in a case involving RBM Lumber Co.

Community news

After hours

Girls basketball coaches asked to resign

Coaches, players and parents came to the defense of Whitefish High School girls basketball coach Sean Duff at Tuesday’s school board meeting as he and his staff battled to keep their jobs.

Margaret Nash

Margaret Ann “Sereday” Nash, 89, died at her home in Kalispell on April 6, 2013. She was born Aug. 19, 1923, in Wayne, between Great Falls and Belt, at her grandparent’s home to John Sereday and Suzie “Mital” Sereday.

Diane Christman

Diane Elaine Stone Christman died peacefully at home in Delhi, La., surrounded by her family on March 3, 2013, following a lengthy illness. She was 61 years of age. She was born on June16, 1951.

Stormy weather in the Montana Senate

The Montana Legislature has finished 73 days out of the 90-day session. After an Easter break with good weather outside, there was a stormy day in the Senate last Friday. The minority in the Senate did not like two bills that they knew would pass third reading that day. These two bills were legislative referendum bills that needed to be passed that day to meet a transmittal deadline.

For Your Next Family Adventure, Try Go-Carts and Bungee Jumps

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Bullock signs marijuana impairment bill

Gov. Steve Bullock signed a bill into law on April 5 that establishes a standard for tetrahydrocannabinol impairment that is universal for all drivers.

Coal mining raises concerns for world-class river

A host of environmental groups in Canada have raised concerns about pollution from coal mines in the Elk River drainage. The Elk River is a coveted westslope cutthroat and bull trout fishery that joins the Kootenay River, forming Lake Koocanusa above the Libby Dam.

Class of 1983 reunion

Organizers for the Columbia Falls Class of 1983’s 30th class reunion are looking for class members whose addresses are unknown. Anyone who knows how to contact anyone on this list is asked to e-mail coko444@yahoo.com. The missing class members are Michele Archie, Jeff Baumgartner, Mike Black, Susan Chilcote, Mike Luepkes, Codi Christopherson, Mike Counsell, Rich Darling, John Dettwiler, Byron Devitt, Dan Gehloff, Ann Greenshield, Sheila Hammons, Leah Jerome, Rollene Johnson, Niles Jones, Keith King, Kevin Knudson, Aaron Kruse, James Lane, Linda Lucky, Pat Martin, Paul Menard, Rich Meyer, Tom Miller, Tricia Monfils, Pat Nichols, Alan Orndorff, Lamar Orndorff, Terri O’Neil, Deanna Paulus, Dan Pettit, Sharon Port, Jeff Salandi, Kelly Stacy, Brian Stanton, Tim Stewart and Dan Westphal.

President Obama speaks in Connecticut about guns

The following remarks were made by President Barack Obama at the University of Hartford on April 8, 2013.

Swing For Glacier fundraiser tickets available

The 10th annual Swing For Glacier fundraiser for Glacier National Park’s three nonprofit partners, Glacier Institute, Glacier National Park Associates and Glacier National Park Conservancy, will take place at the Belton Chalet and Lake McDonald Lodge on Friday, May 24, from 4-10 p.m.

Park plowing continues as weather turns cold

Glacier National Park snowplow crews have hit the Going-to-the-Sun Road while other roads have been melting out.

The coal export opportunity for Montana

As the coal debate heats up on the West Coast, our state is left hoping and waiting for the approval of five proposed coal export terminals in the Pacific Northwest. Our state economy is closely connected with the coal industry — keenly feeling the ups and downs of this industry. And right now, the proposed Pacific Northwest terminals will aide in supplying our state a new export market for sustained, long-term economic growth.

Wolves and unintended consequences

Recently, the Montana Legislature, in its seemingly infinite lack of wisdom, passed House Bill 73, a measure to allow more people to kill more wolves more easily, cheaply, and in more places — even right up to the doorsteps of Yellowstone and Glacier national parks.

Mike Rice Ruled With An Iron Fist and Nobody Swung Back

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School news

Grad party

Bullying advice

I am a Columbia Falls Junior High student. I am worried about how much bullying has happened. Have you been bullied in the past? If not, think about kids who have been bullied. Bullies themselves? So un-predictable.

Annual Bob Marshall meeting April 13

The annual Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex public meeting will take place at the Hungry Horse Ranger Station, in Hungry Horse, on Saturday, April 13, starting at 10 a.m.

History in the making in Montana Senate chambers

Being part of Montana history in the Senate certainly wasn’t on my radar screen when running for office a year ago.

Bullock calls Senate actions 'disappointing'

The following statement was made by Gov. Steve Bullock at the Montana State Capitol on April 5:

Early spring on the prairie

Quiet early spring days on the prairie are a rare, elusive beauty. Probably everyone has his, or her, favorite visual nature spot. For many, it’s the mountains or the seashore, areas that offer sharp contrasts, like jagged peaks reaching up to the sky or land meeting water.

Sun Road bikers will find ice in places

Plow crews have hit the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park while other roads have been melting out after a week of warm weather.

Man dies trying to put out runaway fire

A 66-year-old Columbia Falls man died of an apparent heart attack while trying to put out a fire that had gotten out of control April 2 and run into a Bonneville Power Administration power line easement across Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. property.

Bill aimed at copper thieves gets support

A bill that would hold copper thieves responsible for damages caused by the removal of wire and other nonferrous metal equipment has passed both chambers in the Montana Legislature with overwhelming support.

Carnivore study 'like finding needles in a haystack'

Imagine tracking rare and elusive carnivore in winter.

FVCC winning team hosts logger sports meet

Flathead Valley Community College’s national champion logger sports team will host its annual Stumpjumper Days home competition at the college’s Logger Sports Arena on Saturday, April 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.

Brewery bill tabled but dispute isn't over

The battle brewing between bars and breweries was temporarily put to rest when House Bill 616 was tabled by the House Business and Labor Committee on April 3.

New Learjet 85 Continues 50-Year Legacy

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Marketing Guru Says Dating App Is Fun

(NAPSI)—As a successful entrepreneur, consultant and marketing expert with an impressive track record for building brands and companies, Peter Philipp Wingsoe knows what he is talking about when he says using mobile apps are the most efficient way for brands to connect with consumers.

Top Five Tips To Save Your Vision: EyeCare America Encourages Prevention And Early Detection

(NAPSI)—Many people take their vision for granted, but what if you started to lose your peripheral vision, developed a black spot in the center of your visual field, or even went blind altogether? For almost 4 million American seniors living with serious vision loss or blindness, these and other vision challenges can make it difficult to enjoy life’s simple pleasures such as reading, playing cards or watching grandchildren grow. Vision loss can also make it difficult to live independently, work or drive.

FWP: Bears are awake, looking for food

Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials warn residents that bears are already

Group works on plan to deal with septic pollution in lake

The City of Whitefish’s wastewater committee is reaching out for public input while it continues to draft a management plan for how to deal with septic pollution in Whitefish Lake.

Gym remodel work ramps up

Several items have been checked off the to-do list for the Whitefish High School gymnasium remodel project even before work kicked into high gear this week during spring break.

Camp and Hurtt married

Belinda Camp and Shannon Hurtt, of Clarksville, Ark., were married March 8 in front of family and friends.

Timber sale proposed near Olney

Fuel reduction and timber harvest work is proposed to begin this summer on state trust land in the Stillwater State Forest near Olney.

Softball team looks to hang with competition

Whitefish’s softball team went 0-3 in their opening week, but improvement was evident all over the diamond.

Annie Lea Mack

Annie Lea (Breckenridge) Mack, 93, passed away March 25 at Immanuel Lutheran Care Center in Kalispell after a long and valiant battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born in Seattle on Sept. 21, 1919 to Jeff and Rinda Anna Breckenridge, and was the youngest of nine children — four boys and five girls.

City leases vacant lot for parking

Commuters can expect a bit of relief from Whitefish’s downtown parking congestion as soon as this spring.

Police calls: Driver threatens couple with baseball bat

Three candidates file for school board seats

Three candidates have filed to run for two trustee seats on the Whitefish School District Board.

Romantic comedy to be filmed in town

Whitefish will be transformed into a movie set later this month as filming begins for the independent romantic comedy “The Thin Line.”

Boiler purchase OK'd for WMS

The Whitefish School Board March 26 approved a bid of $74,000 to purchase new heating boilers for the middle school.

Resort tax collections up 19 percent in January

Revenue from the city’s 2 percent resort tax in January was up nearly 19 percent compared to last year. Collections for the month were $119,889, which is an $18,863 increase.

EPA agrees to look at CFAC plant

The following is a letter sent by Howard Cantor, the acting regional administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency, in Denver, to Sen. Jon Tester about his request to designate the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. smelter plant as a Superfund site.

Annual Creston Auction pays for new building

In the last 47 years the Creston Auction has helped the small volunteer fire department do some big things.

Public reminded - bears are out

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials remind the public that bears are emerging from their densand it’s time to put away any attractants that might be outside. 

President Obama addresses gun violence

The follow excerpts are from President Barack Obama’s recent remarks on reducing gun violence:

Mothers write police chiefs about gun violence

The following letter was written by the Montana Chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. They were sent to police chiefs around the state.

Montana's wilderness areas not what they're cracked up to be

Montanans and those who visit the state of Montana are blessed with a bounty of beauty. Only a few other areas of the United States come even close to matching the Treasure State’s abundance of mountain vistas, crystal clear rivers and lakes, or wide open grasslands that roll out as far as the eye can see — and then some.

Second life for Medicaid in legislature

A push by Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock to expand Medicaid coverage to about 70,000 Montanans faltered in the Montana House last week, but it was revived this week with a 26-24 favorable vote in the Montana Senate.

Movie night supports Canyon trail project

The Gateway to Glacier Trail organization will present a second showing of the award-winning documentary film “The Lookout” along with another Brian Bolster film, “Mercantile,” at the O’Shaughnessy, in Whitefish, on Friday, April 26, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and films starting at 7 p.m.

Donald Doane

Donald Doane passed away April 1, 2013 at the Montana Veterans Home.

Christian Evenson

Christian Evenson

Missing folks at the chalet

Attended a gathering at the Belton Chalet Friday morning where our new congressman, Steve Daines, announced he will carry legislation in the House of Representatives supporting the bill in the U.S. Senate sponsored by Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester. Purpose of the bill is to protect the North Fork watershed.

Recalling the death of Slim Link

Note: Following is a shortened version of a scary but true story I wrote for “Sports Afield” in March 1965. There are other versions. North Fork legend Ralph Thayer told me his version, and I also interviewed Chance Beebe’s aging widow. No one knows all the details. This came from what I was told by those involved.

Nicosia, Mundel, Osborne tops at C-Falls Invite

March dished up typical early spring weather at the Columbia Falls Invitational on March 28, with frequent showers, some sunshine and occasionally chilly winds.

Kats down Dogs in season opener

The Columbia Falls softball team rolled over Whitefish 12-1 in its season opener away March 28 against the Lady Bulldogs.

Little Guy wrestling champs

Ten Columbia Falls wrestlers were champions at the Western Montana Little Guy state wrestling tournament held at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on March 22-23. They included:

Glacier Twins season kick-off events

On April 14 the community is encouraged to help put up the multi-panel outfield fencing at the Glacier Twins baseball field at Memorial Park in Whitefish on Sunday, April 14, beginning at 9 a.m. Water, coffee and donuts will be available for volunteers.

Daines calls for protecting North Fork

Montana’s Republican Congressman Steve Daines threw his support behind the North Fork Watershed Protection Act last week. The move signaled a political shift in Montana — his support marks the first bipartisan land-use bill in Congress for more than 30 years.

Outdoor news

Wilderness talk

Budget cuts delaying Glacier Park superintendent hire

Federal budget sequestration is having an impact on the hiring process for a new superintendent for Glacier National Park.

Glacier Park campground dates trimmed

Glacier National Park released further details on impacts from the federal budget sequestration last week, as the Park works to absorb a $682,000 cut to its base operating budget.

Conservancy will help with Park plowing

Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road will be plowed on schedule this season, thanks to a pledge of funds from the Glacier National Park Conservancy, the private fundraising partner of the Park.

Flathead seventh in county health ranking

Flathead County came in seventh in a health ranking of counties in Montana that looked at smoking and drinking, access to health professionals, lost work days, education levels, household incomes, crime and many other factors.

Man charged with stealing parts from logging equipment

A 45-year-old Columbia Falls man faces felony counts of theft and criminal mischief after he was charged with stealing batteries and electrical wiring from logging equipment and trucks at the F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Co. timber mill west of Columbia Falls.

Community news

Chamber meeting

Junior high showcase

Think your password is safe? Think again.

Twins rename tournament

The Glacier Twins Legion baseball program has decided to rename its summer tournament as the Glacier Twins Memorial Tournament.

LeeAnn Cottrell

LeeAnn Marie Cottrell, 42, of Hungry Horse, died March 19, 2013, in Hungry Horse.

Ronald Allen

Ronald L. Allen “was called to Heaven” on March 31, 2013, in his Columbia Falls home, surrounded by his loving family.

GOP gives thumbs down to Medicaid expansion

A push by Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock to expand Medicaid coverage to about 70,000 Montanans faltered in the Montana House last week.

Reichner's Medicaid reform bill is dead

A Medicaid reform bill sponsored by Rep. Scott Reichner, R-Bigfork, never got off the ground.

How to Wash Dry-Clean-Only Clothing at Home

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