Stories for August 2006

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Wednesday, August 30

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Letters to the Editor

Public Service Commission race

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Thanks from Chris' Tea Cottage

To all of our Patrons, Guests and valued Supporters,

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Donald Porter

Donald William Porter, 89, a longtime resident of Whitefish, died Aug. 18, 2006, of natural causes.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Labor Day safety

The Labor Day holiday weekend presents risk of at-home accidents and injuries as families and friends gather for the last BBQs, neighborhood block and pool parties of summer. A recent survey reveals that Americans are concerned about emergencies that would prompt 9-1-1 calls including a fear of robberies, burglaries and break-ins both at their home (nearly 90 percent) and at a neighbor's home (88 percent); drowning (87 percent); serious falls during home repairs (87 percent).

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Bulldog cross-country team has high hopes

Last year, the cross-country team's mantra was, "Next year we'll be able to compete," said Whitefish High School cross-country coach Bill Brist.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Lake View Care Center responds

After reading the article written by Tyler Christiansen posted on 8/21/06 in the Missoulian regarding area nursing homes, I felt the need to respond. My name is Brent Smith and I am the Administrator of Lake View Care Center in Bigfork, Montana.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Le Grizz

The 25th annual Le Grizz 50 Mile Ultramarathon is Saturday, Oct. 14 along the west side of Hungry Horse Reservoir. The foot race, sponsored by the Cheetah Herders Athletic Club, is managed primarily to get first-time ultra-distance runners to the finish line. The completion rate over the past 24 years of the event is 95 percent.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Bones to pick

So Boy Wonder and I were poking around in this favorite old woods the other day. He climbed a tree and I poked around, just sort of looking for stuff.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Wrong Values for Moms, Dads and Children

For State Senate District 5, candidates Ric Smith and Verdell Jackson have very differing views. I have researched both candidates and am convinced that Ric Smith shares my views, and the values of our community.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Letter from the editor

Chocolate faith

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Magdalyn Brosten

Belva Magdalyn Strand Brosten was born July 9, 1921 at Grenora, North Dakota to Meinert and Beulah Caldwell Strand. She passed away on Aug. 7, 2006, in Lewistown, Mont. Magdalyn lived on her father's homestead at Fortuna, North Dakota until the age of five when the family moved to the Flathead Valley. She attended Mountain Brook School for six years where her mother was the teacher. She attended Central Junior High School in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead County High School, Class of 1938.

August 30, 2006 11 p.m.

Apology to Christina

Updated report about the opera singer, Julie Kierstine, who sang for us on Mt. Oberlin, August 3. She did send me a CD and her voice is world class operatic soprano. Yes, I do plan to take it up on Mt. Oberlin for a concert this fall. Bob Z took a picture of Julie so an enlargement will be sitting on a rock while we have the concert.

Thursday, August 24

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Garold McConnell

Garold Melvin McConnell, 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep at North Valley Community Hospital Aug. 18, 2006, after a short illness.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Letters to the Editor

Sign destruction

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Turn off the music and exercise

Editor's Note: The following letter was also sent to the board of directors of The Wave.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Franklin John Palicz

Franklin John Palicz, age 81, passed away at his home in Kalispell, Mont., on Aug. 15, 2006. He was born Nov. 22, 1924 in Omaha, Neb., to Andrew and Margaret (Marten) Palicz.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Go vegan

If you think the production of foie gras is a cruel process, you might be interested in what goes on in the production of other animal-for-food products. I won't get into it here, but I recommend a book by John Robbins titled The Food Revolution to anyone interested in finding out the truth about the barbaric practices used in the animals for food industry. The book is not about opinions on the subject; it contains well researched facts.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

William Van Ham

William Frederick Van Ham, 64, of Miles City, passed away Aug. 17, 2006, at the Holy Rosary Heath Care Center, in Miles City.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

A long line of corrupt leaders

I have been interested in politics ever since Hoover blew the whistle, Mellon rang the bell, Wall Street gave the signal and the country went to hell.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Funds needed for school program

The Whitefish Community Center has decided to suspend the start of after-school programs for grades K-4 until additional funds are raised.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Seeing double: Whitefish has two goalies

The Whitefish soccer team has a problem, but according to head coach O'Brien Byrd, it's a good problem to have.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Memories of Spotted Bear

The weekend of July the 20th, (1985) was a biggy at Spotted Bear Ranger Station for dozens of us who had been associated with that wilderness outpost of the U.S. Forest Service. When I first got the written invite to the dedication of the new log Ranger Station, I felt insulted because it said they were inviting all the "old timers". I called Forest headquarters and raised hell about being called "old". The young man on the line explained that was just a term they used for anyone who worked there forty or more years ago.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

William Baldridge

William Gregory Baldridge passed away Aug. 13, 2006, at the Montana State Veterans Home.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Huckleberry Festival

To the Bigfork Eagle and Mike Richeson and his staff: Thanks for the 25 years you have supported the Swan Lake Huckleberry Festival.

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

Letter from the editor

Art on display

August 24, 2006 11 p.m.

A dangerous and deceptive initiative

Since I grew up in a rural community, and Froid was my hometown, I appreciate the importance of your local newspaper.

Wednesday, August 23

August 23, 2006 11 p.m.

Sun Dog fire under attack

Blaze about 20 miles north of Columbia Falls, forces road closures

August 23, 2006 11 p.m.

Flint party

There is a Boy Scout retirement party for Fred Flint, Friday, Aug. 25 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Marantette Park. Troop 1941 will honor Scoutmaster Fred Flint for his 18 years of outstanding service and commitment to our boys and the community. We would like to invite every one in the community to join us in this celebration. Please RSVP with the number of people in your party to 892-3026 or 892-2930 or 892-7490.

Thursday, August 17

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Roger Smith

Roger Edward Smith, 65, passed away Aug. 13, 2006, at his home in Libby with his wife Merry at his side.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Letters to the Editor

Firefighter Recruiting

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Thanks to the Sheriff's Department

During one of the recent violent wind and thunder storms, my family, consisting of myself, my husband and our two dogs, found ourselves, if not literally, definitely figuratively in deep water.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Letter from the editor

Scientific bullies

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Olson named new Whitefish hoops coach

Twenty-five years after playing basketball under coach Julio Delgado, Tim Olson is joining ranks with his former coach to help lead the Whitefish High School basketball program.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Growth policy comments

I was pleased to see that a good number of valley residents took time to comment on the Flathead County Growth Policy draft last week. I must commend the members of the planning board and planning staff for their diligence, and for being

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Dismayed by Wave dispute

Editor's note: The following letter was sent to The Wave's board of directors:

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Protests planned for Cheney's visit

Vice President Dick Cheney was scheduled to visit Whitefish on Wednesday in a fund-raising effort for embattled Montana Sen. Conrad Burns, who is running neck-and-neck with Democratic challenger Jon Tester in recent election polls and fund-raising efforts.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Beautiful music in the wild

Strange and exotic things can happen in the high places. On the morning of Aug. 3, two members of The Thursday Over the Hill Gang were working their way with me up the second tier of waterfalls near the base of Mount Oberlin midst one of Glacier Park's most beautiful collections of vast scenery, wild flowers, crystal ponds, wildlife and red rock formations. It is a giant amphitheater overflowing with all mother nature's miracles on the Crown of the Continent.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Kathy Cantu

Kathy Ann (Sandefur) Cantu, 50, "passed into the arms of our Savior, the Lord Jesus," on Aug. 7, 2006, at Healthcenter Northwest, in Kalispell.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Mr. Richeson,

Have just read your editorial in the August 10 issue of the Bigfork Eagle and very much appreciate the honor you gave to World War II veterans. I am one of those, serving in the US Navy in the midst of the battles in the South Pacific in a Fleet Tanker under Admiral (Bull) Halsey's Third Fleet, and one of the fortunate to come back alive. Having joined the Navy at the age of 17 in 1943, I also lied about my age, and served until the war's end. I will be attending my 20th annual Navy Reunion in Farragut, Idaho, September 8th through 10th. This will be our final reunion because of the few of us that are left. Thank you for your interesting article.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Letter

As I write this my wife and I are sitting in the open air restaurant of the British High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria. It will never compare to the clean air and wonderful scenery of the Flathead, but we cast our gaze over Aso Rock, The 'White House', Senate and judiciary, and the National Christian Center, among other landmarks. The weather carries a cool breeze under overcast skies. I have just read through your recent editorial and wish to take this opportunity to commend you. Those of us who live abroad may be more sensitive to the freedoms and luxuries of home than those who live there. Our thanks goes out to all those who work diligently in the military, but also in diplomacy to keep our land safe and advance freedom and democracy world wide. We are also grateful for those working to reduce threats at home and abroad.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

The Wave protects diversity

I would like to respond to Ms. Coco's letter about diversity at The Wave. As a long-time member (since the grand opening) I have seen a lot of changes at The Wave driven by members' requests, demands and complaints, as well as the management just trying to streamline operations.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

John Pohl

John R. Pohl, a resident of Whitefish, formerly of Dayton, Ohio, passed away after injuries sustained in a traffic accident on Aug. 9, 2006, near Dixon.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Property rights have a history

"….promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity."

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Montana boys win regional golf tourney

The Montana boys defeated the Alberta boys for only the second time in the 14-year history of the Montana/Alberta Cup last week at Whitefish Lake Golf Course.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Signs of the times

On Saturday night, August 12th, dozens of signs opposing the Milhous Kootenai Condo development were systematically destroyed. These signs were posted on private properties along Sunburst Drive in Ferndale. Many signs were addressed to the Lake County Commissioners. Their destruction represents a direct attempt to deny citizens the constitutional guarantees of "freedom of speech" and the right to address the Government for a redress of grievances.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

James Boerner

James (Jim) Vincent Boerner, 80, of Whitefish, entered into his eternal rest Aug.10, 2006, at his home in Mountain View Manor.

August 17, 2006 11 p.m.

Sports

Chandler Melton / Whitefish Pilot

Wednesday, August 16

August 16, 2006 11 p.m.

FBI part of Red Eagle fire investigation

Investigators from the state, the Park Service and the FBI are expected to take a second look at the Red Eagle Fire this week.

August 16, 2006 11 p.m.

Bears have some Park trails closed

Hungry Horse News

Thursday, August 10

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Invitations sent out for Cheney, Burns visit

The office of Vice President Dick Cheney has confirmed an Aug. 16 appearance in Whitefish to raise funds for Sen. Conrad Burns' re-election campaign.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Letter from the editor

The giants among us

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

John Sitton

John Allan "Jack" Sitton, 70, peacefully "slipped into the arms of his Savior" surrounded by family on July 30, 2006. Between his fighting spirit and the support of his wife, he lived a full life for 2 1/2 years after hearing he only had weeks to live. He was sustained by the prayers and support of those who knew and loved him.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Christopher John Shupert

Christopher John Shupert, 25, died at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on August 2, 2006, from natural causes. He was born in Kalispell, MT on July 5, 1981. He was the second of three sons born to Dan and Jeri Shupert. Christopher spent his childhood life in Trego and the remainder of his life in Kalispell.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Alberta/Montana Cup kicks off

Chandler Melton / Whitefish Pilot

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Caboose update

In response to those who are concerned about the Red Caboose diner, the city's architectural review committee has told me the caboose is in substantial compliance with the design plans the city approved.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Has Image

Jean Yarnell (Foster, Winter)

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Sports Briefs

The Wave Golf Scramble will take place at the Whitefish Lake Golf Course on Aug. 19 beginning at 2 p.m. The event is a fund-raiser for The Wave's scholarship program and the Youth Swim Club. Prizes include $15,000 in cash for a hole-in-one, longest drive and closest to the pin. Team entry fee is $300. For more information, call The Wave at 862-2444.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Dorothy Brumbeloe Johnson

Dorothy Brumbeloe Johnson, 86, passed away on Saturday, August 5, 2006 at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell, Montana. She was born on June 22, 1920 in Roanoke, Alabama to James Bracy and Anne Haden (Reid) Brumbeloe.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Honor Montanans with tax rebate

My Republican father would say it's a sad day for his party when Democrats come up with a better property tax rebate plan. My Democratic mom would laugh and say she knew she was right all along in raising an independent minded child.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Cal Ripken team gives it their all

It was a great pleasure to be in Eugene, Ore., this past week to watch the 11-year-old state champion Cal Ripken baseball team in action.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Letters to the Editor

Bigfork Farmer's Market

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

True stories

My Daughter Jan told me this true story.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

What do you think should happen with the six acres of

Flathead County-owned green space in the Lake Hills

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

More important issues than music

Talk about the ultimate "tempest in a teapot." I just returned from Europe, where the conversation is Israel, Iraq, Darfur and the probable next terrorist attack on Great Britain. Also, lest I forget, Italy's victory in the World Cup.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Lily Ediger

Ediger, 93, of Whitefish and formerly of Wolf Point, died Aug. 4, 2006, at Colonial Manor.

August 10, 2006 11 p.m.

Diverse town, diverse values

I am getting tired of reading about all of those "deeply offended" by the disallowing of Christian music in their cycling class.

Wednesday, August 9

August 9, 2006 11 p.m.

Heritage Days wrap-up

An interesting and good Heritage Day Committee meeting was conducted by Matt McConville, president. One of the purposes was to discuss the events' successes, disappointments and general opinions.

August 9, 2006 11 p.m.

Swim team takes 7th at state meet

The Columbia Falls swim team took seventh overall at the state tournament held last weekend in Conrad.

Thursday, August 3

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

William J. "Pete" Kennedy

William J. "Pete" Kennedy, age 92, passed away July 24, 2006 at Colonial Manor in Whitefish, Montana. He was born July 26, 1913 in Kansas City, Missouri to William A. and Marie (Feeney) Kennedy.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Our Busybody World

I was just kidding when I told management at the Summit Health Club I was going to resign if they didn't get a "Smoking Room."

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

The real property tax reduction

We have come to expect half-truths and spins early in a national campaign, but Mike Jopek is starting pretty early for a Montana legislator. The Republican Handshake with Montana promised a property tax decrease months before the Democrat's Square Deal.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Bigfork Eagle editorial

Power of the pedal

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Shirley M. Frayer

Shirley Marguerite Frayer (nee Erickson) born 03/21/1939 was peacefully united with heaven on Thursday 07/27/2006 at 7:50 p.m. at St. Joseph's hospital in Atlanta, GA.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Belize volunteer in need of support

My name is Monica Senin, and apart from the past four years I spent at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., I have lived all of my life in Whitefish.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Barbara Anne Ristine

Barbara Anne Ristine, age 57, passed away on Tuesday, July 25, 2006 at her residence in Kalispell, Montana. She was born on May 4, 1949 at Huntington, Indiana the daughter of Norbert and Margaret (Young) Karst.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

From Tee to Green

Golf course wear patterns

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

'Making waves'

I am a member of The Wave in Whitefish and had been a faithful attendee of Bob Bouillon's 5:30 a.m. cycling class. By nature, I prefer to avoid conflict, but The Wave board's recent decision to ban Christian music has prompted me to make a public point and to "make waves," so to speak.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Letters to the Editor

Rockin' for Ravenwood

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

William Kennedy

William J. "Pete" Kennedy, 92, passed away July 24, 2006, at Colonial Manor in Whitefish. He was born July 26, 1913, in Kansas City, Mo., to William A. and Marie (Feeney) Kennedy.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Michael Steckler

Michael William Steckler, 60, passed away July 26, 2006, at Health Center Northwest, in Kalispell, after a courageous battle with mesothelioma (asbestos caused) lung cancer for almost two years.

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Headphones the answer to music dilemma?

Recent issues at The Wave remind us that tastes have varied since before the Romans (de gustibus non disputandem).

August 3, 2006 11 p.m.

Habitat works for Flathead families

While the beautiful Big Sky country draws more and more middle and upper class individuals into Montana every year, the low-income population and the need for affordable housing is also rising. In October 1989, Montana graciously welcomed Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley, the first Habitat affiliate of the state.

Wednesday, August 2

August 2, 2006 11 p.m.

Boogie to the Bank draws a big crowd

Hungry Horse News

August 2, 2006 11 p.m.

46 teams competed in annual 3-on-3 tourney

Hungry Horse News

August 2, 2006 11 p.m.

Horsemen meet

The Back Country Horsemen of the Flathead will hold their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 8 at 7:30 p.m., at the Fish, Wildlife and Parks Building, located at 490 North Meridian Road. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome.

August 2, 2006 11 p.m.

Football practice starts next week

Hungry Horse News