Ellington

Glacier scenes X

Photos of week Sept. 3

Thursday

Whitefish’s First Thursday Gallery Nights will take place at more than a dozen downtown art galleries on Thursday, Sept. 3 (tonight), from 6-9 p.m.

Boat crash injures Rehberg, four others

Bigfork Eagle

Rehberg suffers broken ankle in boat crash

Bigfork Eagle

Whitefish Lake Swim

Rehberg, Barkus, three others injured in boat crash

While his state director Dustin Frost remains hospitalized with a head injury, U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg was released from Kalispell Regional Medical Center Monday and headed for his home in Billings.

Effort to restore Red Bridge looks at funding

Finding funding seems to be the next hurdle in a plan to restore the Red Bridge in Columbia Falls.

Boat crash injures Rehberg, four others

Bigfork Eagle

Judge allows hearing on wolf hunts

U.S. District Judge Donald Molloy has granted a request for a hearing to consider a preliminary injunction that would halt pending wolf hunts in Montana and Idaho. The three-hour hearing is scheduled for Aug. 31 at 9 a.m. in the U.S. District Court in Missoula.

Young, thin Wildcats in a rebuilding mode

Rebuilding is the proper way to describe the Columbia Falls High School soccer program.

Glenn Speer

Glen Evan Speer, 51, went to be with the Lord on Thursday, Aug. 20, 2009, in the comfort of his parents' home — surrounded by his family. Though our beloved Glen is gone from here, he will always be felt in our hearts.

Silent speed racers

Boat racing is back in Whitefish — albeit much quieter.

C-Falls men earn black belts

Artist donates painting to Glacier Institute

A mystery of nature in the Flathead

Thomas Kuehl

Montanan rides around the world as hunger advocate; first stop Whitefish

Chris Sorbi has embarked on the ride of his life.

Cheers for Volunteers

Hi, they call me Rover, but that's just my stage name — my real name is Addie. I'm a German shepherd. Pictured with me are my buddies, Emily, a poodle, and RJ, a Bichon. They share my stage name.

Plenty of differences between original neighborhood plan and 2009 revision

The Lakeside Neighborhood Plan revision was forwarded to the Flathead County Planning Board by the Lakeside Community Council last month, signaling the beginning of the lengthy county process required to enact the document.

Flathead's wooden boat tradition on display

From bark covered canoes to steam powered commercial ships and gasoline-driven tour boats and pleasure craft, wooden boat building has been a tradition on Flathead Lake for centuries.

Wildkats open with lots of speed, experience

With all but three players returning for 2009, the Columbia Falls High School girls soccer team and its coaches anticipate an excellent season. The Wildkats open the year Saturday with a non-conference match at Bigfork; match time is 1 p.m.

New coach, new class, lots of experience

While some may be wondering if Bigfork High School's switch to Class B was a necessary one, the volleyball team's roster may be the perfect example of the decline in numbers that were the basis of the decision.

About 'Trying Matters'

Was "almost" on a jury one time but defense attorney gave me the "heave ho." Serving on juries is not only a citizen's "right" within our legal system, but also a serious responsibility; however, there are reasons veteran reporters are not often chosen by lawyers in criminal trials … maybe never.

CFBB gearing up for annual auction event

In a summer of anniversaries, the Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork's 9th annual auction might not be the longest or the most impressive streak. But it might be the most useful.

Bigfork Rotary members secure grant for Zambian village

It's unlikely that most Bigfork residents could pinpoint the remote central-African nation of Zambia on a map, but thanks to the work of a few Bigfork Rotarians, more than $20,000 is on its way to help a small village there.

Streetscaping will be positive

I am writing in response to the recent negative feedback that has been focused on the Whitefish City Council with regard to the Downtown Master Plan implementation.

Government should go after tax cheats

It is well past time that our government went hightailing after these corporate and wealthy individuals who hide their income in off-shore accounts to avoid paying taxes. President Obama is in hot pursuit of these tax cheaters, so stand back and watch the sparks fly.

Up the Danny On at Glacier Nordic Run

Eighty-six runners competed Saturday in the Glacier Nordic Trail Run, a 4-mile run up the Danny On Trail on Big Mountain, with 2,200 vertical feet of climbing. The race benefits the Glacier Nordic Ski Team.

Tester bill will address forest issues

My friends from Norway were astounded a few years ago as we drove through the forests of western Montana. Their shock was at the waste they saw.

Wildcats kick off season Friday night at Stevensville

Wildcat pride on the football field came through in a big way during the 2008 season at Columbia Falls High School, and don't expect that to change this year.

Gerald Lakes

Gerard Anthony Lakes, 27, passed away Friday, Aug. 14, 2009, in Brooks, Alberta, Canada. The cause of death is still unknown at this time. Gerard was born June 20, 1982, to Mike and Lucie Ann (Purdy) Lakes. He spent his childhood riding dirt bike with his father Mike and brother Mark, and hunting and fishing with his grandpa Clarence.

Audit finds flawed claims process

An audit of selected county claim warrants conducted after allegations of inappropriate spending by the American Dream Montana organization found no misappropriation of money, but cited several deficiencies in the way claims are processed.

Rehberg injured in boat crash

U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg, R-Mont., was in stable condition in a Kalispell hospital Friday after a boating crash Thursday night.

Bulldogs soccer young and hungry

Coach O'Brien Byrd doesn't want to call this season a rebuilding year for the Bulldogs boys soccer team. He hates that clich.

Questions raised over Central Ave. mock-up

Gangs of Whitefish

Letters to the editorQRU proves plenty of service to West Shore

The Lakeside Quick Response Unit has just finished their 28th year serving the upper West Shore and Lower Valley community. We were dispatched to 242 emergency calls during the year, an 8 percent increase over the previous year. Every year we are called to a variety of emergency situations.

Letters to the Editor

Last week the Bigfork Eagle ran a letter to the editor titled "Hooligans in Bigfork?!" containing unsubstantiated accusations concerning a group of downtown businesses. The letter should not have been printed, as it did not meet our required standards to hold civilized public discourse on our opinion pages.

Wrong choice to kill bear

To the editor,

BHS soccer player starting charity

Wooden boats on display in Lakeside

Change of season both subtle, startling

Letter from the editor

Kudos to Fuller

I would like to respond to the letter written about the job Jackie Fuller is doing as the current athletic director at Whitefish High School. I have been following the Whitefish Bulldog sports program for close to 30 years now and have watched the loyalty and true Bulldog tradition of past coaches and players.

Bigfork boys soccer team has short, strong bench for new season

What the Bigfork High School boys soccer team lacks in quantity this season they hope to make up in quality.

Merle Voigt

Merle M. Voigt, 84, a lifetime resident of Whitefish, died Aug. 23, 2009, at her home surrounded by her loving family.

Bigfork girls soccer team filled with newcomers

The Bigfork High School girls soccer team is working hard to get all of its athletes on the same level before their season starts on Saturday, Aug. 29, with a home game against Columbia Falls.

Wildkats spikers reload for 2009 campaign

With three returning starters, Columbia Falls High School is reloading on the volleyball court for the 2009 season.

Joseph Jankovsky

Joseph Charles Jankovsky III, 40, died peacefully in his sleep on Aug. 12, 2009, in Columbia Falls, after battling a long-term illness. Joe was born, May 5, 1969, in Colorado to Joe and Jeanne Jankovsky. His younger years were spent in the Arapahoe Basin in Colorado, with his family. Later the cattle industry moved them to Montana. They settled in Eureka in 1980 where Joe attended school. He graduated from Lincoln County High in 1988. Then Joe attended Northern Montana College in Havre and Northern Idaho College in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, before moving to Federal Way, Wash., where he met his wife, Kristi.

Thursday

An orientation for fifth-grade students and their parents and guardians will take place at Whitefish Middle School on Thursday, Aug. 27, at 7 p.m.

Candidate wants reasonable government

After much thought about the city's direction lately and living here for 31 years, I have decided to run for Whitefish City Council. With our present economic conditions here, we need someone who has a business sense and ability to make some hard decisions for the local voters. We do not need more lawsuits — we need people who can solve problems and move on.

Mollusk invasion will wreak havoc

Imagine Montana's premier fishing lakes and streams are devoid of fish. Imagine further Montana's water recreation tourist industry has collapsed. Finally, imagine the devastating economic impact these scenarios would have on those Montana businesses that depend on fishing, water recreation and tourism, and the businesses that service them. Unfortunately, these catastrophic events could occur if Montana does not act immediately and boldly to stop the spread of two small aquatic invasive species – Zebra and Quagga Mussels.

Businesses key for local fund-raisers

Anyone who operates a business in Bigfork knows there are two very distinct — but nearly equal — economies at play in the Village.

River clean-up to begin in September

The Environmental Protection Agency has ordered BNSF Railway to begin removing contaminated sediments in the upper reach of the Whitefish River by Sept. 25.

Griz cub necropsy released

A necropsy has determined that the grizzly yearling darted by Glacier National Park rangers on Aug. 17 died from internal bleeding due to laceration of the bear's jugular vein.

Faro takes all of Pete's money

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

Twice is nice at lake swim

The water may have been choppy and chilly, but that didn't deter two local swimmers going for repeat wins on Sunday at the Whitefish Lake Swim.

Superintendent challenges critic

Marcus Brainard, your letter in the Aug. 20 Whitefish Pilot was amazing. This is almost as good as your letter to the Pilot dated July 31, 2008, "Tossed from gym." In both letters you misled the Whitefish community with false accusations, no proof and, most importantly, lacking the intestinal fortitude to address issues in person.

Strawberry Lake hike steep but stellar

Rising through the mists of what had proven to be a fun and challenging ascent to Strawberry Lake, my breathing was finally beginning to regulate.

America's best idea? National parks

Dayton Duncan has been to all 58 national parks in the U.S. His favorite? Glacier. But not for the reasons you might think.

Change: A farewell to the Flathead

Changes change us.

BHS gets new football scoreboard

Bigfork EagleJust in time for the new school year Bigfork High School had a new scoreboard installed on their football field to replace the one that was destroyed in a windstorm at the end of April.

Most Montanans will see property tax hike

More than half the state's homeowners will see higher property taxes, according to figures posted by the Montana Department of Revenue. Here in the Flathead, more than three-quarters of homeowners will see a property tax hike.

'Best Little Whorehouse' review

Community news

Assessments can be appealed informally

Downtown business and local homeowners can thank Senate Republicans when we pay an additional 15 percent in property taxes in the coming months.

Jason Wade Rauthe, 35

Jason Wade Rauthe, 35, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday Aug. 9, 2009, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center surrounded by his family and friends. He was born Jan. 24, 1974 to Brad and Susan (Riddle) Rauthe in Kalispell, MT.

Letters to the Editor

Making best of bikes

Alda Zerr

Alda Pearl Zerr, of Whitefish, 86, passed away Aug. 16, 2009, at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center of complications due to pneumonia.

Letter from the editor

Pretty lucky to have the Park

Lack of information delays city budget

Free, reduced-price meals available in District 6

Too narrow

Dear Mayor Mike Jenson and Whitefish City Council Members:

BHS sports prep for season in Class B

As Bigfork High School's athletic teams gear up for their new seasons most are undergoing signicicant changes as the school competes in Class B for the first time since the 1996-1997 school year.

C-Falls opens fall seasons Aug. 28, 29

With Bigfork dropping from Class A to Class B in all sports but soccer, Columbia Falls will have just four conference opponents in football, volleyball, cross country and golf during the 2009-2010 school year.

Canyon Community's new pastor

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

Lakers meeting highlights North Shore

There was a recurring theme at the Flathead Lakers annual meeting last week at Flathead Lake Lodge in Bigfork. The time to protect land around the Lake, they agreed, is now.

Rangers shoot 'conditioned' griz

Sow killed, one cub dies after tranquilization; other sent to the Bronx Zoo

Palmer drops out of race

Councilor Nick Palmer announced near the conclusion of the Whitefish City Council's difficult Aug. 17 meeting that he is withdrawing from this fall's council elections.

Back to school news and reminders

It's that time of year when the thoughts of back to school come upon all of us. The start of a new school year is always an exciting time, not only for students and their parents, but for our teaching staff, as well.

Hiker dies in fall on Ahern Pass

A 67-year-old retired Great Falls neurologist died from a fall on Ahern Pass in Glacier National Park about 2 p.m. Saturday. Dr. William H. Labunetz had been hiking with four others and had climbed Iceberg North earlier in the day. Two of the party broke off, and the remaining three planned to use goat trails to climb down to Ptarmigan Tunnel and then return to Many Glacier campground, where they were staying.

First West Nile virus case confirmed in Montana

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services recently confirmed the first human case of West Nile virus in Montana for 2009. The case was identified in a Lake County adult. According to health officials, the individual most likely acquired the infection in Lake County after receiving numerous mosquito bites.

Hunter education sign-ups Aug. 27

Registration for the Columbia Falls Hunter Education Course will be held on Thursday, Aug. 27 and Monday Aug. 31 at the Columbia Falls City Hall Council Chambers. Hours on both days is 6 to 8 p.m.

Vets Home gets funding for energy projects

The Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls is the first Montana recipient of energy-efficiency funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, Gov. Brian Schweitzer and the Department of Environmental Quality announced last week.

Can the government be trusted?

Since Sens, Baucus and Tester can't or won't respond to my comments on the new healthcare program, perhaps they will welcome an open letter to the public.

Sleep tight, soldier

Martin City woman and friends sew pillowcases for troops

Running the 'Dogs

If the Whitefish Bulldogs football team had accumulated any dust over the summer, the season's first two-a-day practice surely washed it off.

Gambling revenue down for the year

Revenue collections from electronic gaming machines in Montana and the Montana Lottery were down 3 percent in fiscal year 2009 compared to the previous year.

Hunters education class offered at Somers Middle

West Shore News

Gaiser sprints away with triathlon

Scott Gaiser wasn't going to let this race slip away in the final few meters — not like he's done in the past.

Cultural attractions

The Trailwatcher / G. George Ostrom

Cynthia Marie Kobylenski, 52

Our beloved Cynthia Marie Kobylenski passed away Sunday August 9. How does one begin to describe the life force of Cindy? To begin, Cindy was born May 30, 1957 in Riverhead, New York to Helen and Frank Ruskowski.

Martha Buzzell

Martha May Buzzell, 97, entered into rest on Aug. 15, 2009, and this earth lost a very special soul. Martha was born April 20, 1912, in Cottonwood, north of Havre, to William and Cora Staples. She married Curtis Jay Buzzell, March 28, 1931.

Week in pictures, August 27

Work funded for plume investigation

Montana could see a boost in tourism

Fire season getting rained out

Unusual August rains and cool temperatures have all but snuffed out the possibility of a big fire season in Northwest Montana.

Highway 82 zone change to commission

Bigfork Eagle

Council approves streetscaping bid

Reconstruction of Third Street from Spokane to Baker avenues will proceed this fall, now that the Whitefish City Council has approved the low bid by Sandry Construction, which also includes the 200 block of Central Avenue next spring.

Property taxes will go up for most Montanans

More than half the state's homeowners will see higher property taxes, according to figures posted by the Montana Department of Revenue. Here in the Flathead, more than three-quarters of homeowners will see a property tax hike.

Co-op looking at rate hike, geothermal power

With the Bonneville Power Adminstration raising rates by 7 percent on Oct. 1, Flathead Electric Cooperative could be looking at raising its rates by 3.5 to 4 percent.

Cheers for Volunteers

Paul Jeremiassen, his wife Ann and two children came to Montana from California. Their dream was to retire to a quiet, community-based location in the mountains. Previous visits, a sister in Eureka and a mother in Whitefish made this area a natural.

Local TV districts make switch

West Shore News

Thursday

The Columbia Falls Lions Club meets at 6:30 a.m. on the first and third Thursdays each month at the Back Room, in the same building as the Nite Owl Restaurant. Contact a Lions Club member for information about joining the organization.

County planning director, under investigation, responds to allegations

Whitefish Pilot

Whitefish Lake Triathlon 2009

Royal Marcus Blackwell

Royal Marcus Blackwell, son of Cole and Chelsi Blackwell, of Whitefish, was born Aug. 3, 2009, at North Valley Hospital.

Week in pictures, Aug. 20

Thursday

The Alpine Theatre Project will present “The World Goes ‘Round” at the Whitefish Middle School auditorium on Aug 20-23 with an evening of Broadway hits by composer John Kander and lyricist Fred Ebb. No one has written more showstoppers than Kander and Ebb, whose memorable songs include “All That Jazz,” “Maybe This Time,” “Cabaret,” “How Lucky Can You Get” and “New York, New York.” The World Goes ‘Round is a song and dance revue celebrating the most exciting duo in show biz history. The song and dance revue was directed by Betsi Morrison and choreographed by DJ Salisbury and stars Betsi Morrison, Aaron Ramey, Alexis Sims, Elisa Van Duyne and Luke Walrath. Shows are at 8 p.m. on Tuesdays through Saturdays and 6 p.m. on Sundays. Tickets are $12 through $37. For more information, call 862-7469 or visit online at www.alpinetheatreproject.org.

Scenes from the Fair

Baucus raises red flag on gold exploration near Glacier

Montana Sen. Max Baucus has fired off a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton concerning more mining threats to the North Fork of the Flathead.

Dark skies regs kick in next week

The deadline for Whitefish property owners to make their outdoor lighting "dark sky" compliant is only four days away — Aug. 17.

Jason Rauthe

Jason Wade Rauthe, 35, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday Aug. 9, 2009, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center surrounded by his family and friends. He was born Jan. 24, 1974 to Brad and Susan (Riddle) Rauthe in Kalispell.

Heat, high volume lead to sewer smell

It's not an uncommon occurrence when the days get hot and Bigfork is packed with people, but the sour scent drifting over town from the Bigfork water treatment facility is still an unwelcome summertime guest.

Glacier all-stars go 0-4 at regional tournament

It was like the movie Ground Hog Day for the Glacier 14-year-old Babe Ruth all-star team at the regional tournament last week in Moscow, Idaho. The next day was a carbon copy of the day before.

Thanks for support of WAEA

To the editor,

Remembrances of days past in the Flathead

W Richard Dukelow

Local Venture Crew summits Mt. Rainier

On the afternoon of Aug. 4, Venture Crew 2917 of Whitefish scrambled up the last rocky slopes separating them from their goal. Moments later, they stood at the top of the windswept summit of Mount Rainier, exhausted but victorious.

Skate camp encourages confidence in the park

The calls of, "dropping!" echoed off the concrete at Dave Olseth Memorial Skatepark on Wednesday.

Thursday

The Columbia Falls Lions Club meets at 6:30 a.m. on the first and third Thursdays each month at the Back Room, in the same building as the Nite Owl Restaurant. Contact a Lions Club member for information about joining the organization.

Darrell Slaybaugh

Darrell A. Slaybaugh, of La Pine, Ore., passed away July 27, 2009.

Zip line, alpine slide offer big fun in Whitefish

As I sat in my harness attached to a cable stretching through the trees of Big Mountain, it became apparent that I was about to embark on either the most fun or the scariest thing I had done in a long time.

Future questions

After many years of public process and multiple public meetings, where residents took the time to turn out and provide feedback on the future of downtown Whitefish, last-minute protests — based largely on misinformation and small-town chatter — are throwing confusion and question into what is a positive step for the future of Whitefish.

Salazar supports North Fork protection

Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar on Monday pledged his support for a long-term solution that would protect the Flathead River from mining threats.

Royal Marcus Blackwell

Royal Marcus Blackwell, son of Cole and Chelsi Blackwell, of Whitefish, was born Aug. 3, 2009, at North Valley Hospital.

Letters to the Editor

Patients first

Whitefish's daredevils on motorcycles

Former Whitefish resident missing in Bering Sea

Glacier All-Stars knocked out at regional tourney

It was like Groundhog Day for the Glacier 14-year-old Babe Ruth all-star team at the regional tournament last week in Moscow, Idaho.

Sun Road sees night closure

The night-time road closure on Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road (Sun Road) will be expanded to the Loop to allow crews to prepare the stretch of road from Crystal Point to Haystack for paving in September. Starting Monday, Aug. 17, the Sun Road will be closed from the Loop to the west side of Logan Pass Monday through Thursday, from 10 p.m. to 2 a.m., and from 2:15 a.m. to 6 a.m.

Cosley collection bound for Columbia Falls

The Joe Cosley Collection has found a perfect home at Glacier Discovery Square in Columbia Falls. As part of a partnership between the First Best Place Task Force, a non-profit community organization here, the Northwest Montana Historical Society and Glacier Park Books and Videos, it was announced Friday that the story of the legend of Joe Cosley — mountain man, trapper, one of the first Glacier Park rangers, and larger-than-life hero of Columbia Falls — will finally be on display at a new space in Discovery Square, the local community center.

Riders cut through the fog at Grizzly Downhill race

The calendar said it was August, but the thermometer read more like November — and that pesky Big Mountain fog machine was making a rare summer appearance, soaking the ground with dew.

Bids submitted for downtown street project

The low bid for reconstruction of Third Street and the 200 block of Central Avenue recently came in close to the engineer's estimate. The two segments of the overall downtown infrastructure improvement project were bid together.

Recalling Columbia Falls history

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

Kansas State cheerleaders come to BHS camp

The Bigfork High School cheerleading squad received a big boost for their upcoming season, with a clinic taught by Kansas State University cheerleaders and advisors.

Rollins rancher breeding super-lean 'buff beef'

Most everyone in America has a dream.

Letters to the editorLakeside Shoreline Park Plans Available for Comment

The proposed Lakeside park plan is available through September 30 for public viewing and comment at the West Shore Community Library, 100 Bierney Creek Road, Lakeside. The library is open Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. For library information call 844-3917.

Docks restaurant trying to attract boaters

Fans of The Docks Restaurant in Lakeside should already know that the restaurant has reopened under new management, since the community has been abuzz with talk about some of the changes that have taken effect.

Common sense in government

My name is Rick Blake and I love this town. My two children go to school here. My wife performs regularly with our local theater companies. We ski, we boat and we give thanks every day for the stunning natural beauty that surrounds us.

Tester's bill fails reality check

Senator Jon Tester's "new style jobs and wilderness Bill," introduced July 17, models the current mode of Congress' handling of legislation:

Wildcat grid practice begins Friday

Columbia Falls High School practice for fall sports is on the horizon, with the first football workout set for Friday under new head coach Bill Coleman.

State of the Lake: Clean and clear

Flathead Lake is still among the cleanest large lakes in the world, but increased pollution and rising temperatures paint an uncertain future, according to Dr. Jack Stanford of the Yellow Bay Biological Station.

Hiking to Turquoise Lake

BHS artist making a splash

School board OKs budgets that increase slightly

A Ride to Remember

Council candidates want full 6-week streetscape trial

We are writing regarding rumors we have heard regarding the downtown streetscape project. Specifically, we are concerned that the Whitefish City Council may act to engage the contractors prior to the conclusion of the six-week trial period for the extended sidewalk mock-up.

Cheers for Volunteers

Myni Ferguson spends most of her waking hours on community projects. Of Scottish origin, she was born in Bombay, India, moved to Singapore, and attended boarding school in Scotland and business school in London.

The Last Time I Saw Johnny

The last time I saw Johnny Robischon was 56 years ago … under unusual circumstances. Memories of that complicated event began creeping back last Sunday when his obituary appeared in the paper. John was a good friend and classmate of my younger brother Ritchey, two years younger than I.

Letter from the editor

Lake report some encouraging news

Lakeside rider 5th at Event

For many riders throughout the U.S. and Canada, the Event at Rebecca Farm represents a major opportunity to compete on a world-class course without having traveling to Europe. Jeannine Pukas, of Lakeside, is certainly no exception.

Pedacter Project still popular after almost 10 years

Pedacter Project is by no means a new band in the Bigfork area, but after nearly a decade together they still manage to pack the dance floor at venues all over the village and throughout the Valley.

Jack Hanna films 'Wild' show in Bigfork

Jack Hanna, the wildlife enthusiast who made a name for himself by introducing the world to exotic animals on television, is turning his career in a more family-oriented direction, and hoping that viewers of his show "Jack Hanna's Into the Wild" will follow his example.

Jean Reithmeier Paul, 78

Jean Reithmeier Paul, age 78, of Bigfork, passed away on Friday, July 31, 2009 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell, Montana. She was born on January 9, 1931 in Kansas City, Kan. to Darrell and Violet (Smith) Garrett.

Leave Central Avenue alone

Could we please leave poor old Central Avenue alone? It's just fine the way it is. Whitefish has been "diddled" and "improved" until it has lost its unique character.

BLUAC OKs Hwy 83 zone change

A controversial zone change application for two Highway 83 properties that was denied in 2007 was back before the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee last Thursday evening, where it was recommended for approval by a 5-2 vote.

Missing kayaker found safe Tuesday night

A search for a missing kayaker in Glacier National Park ended happily after the boy was rescued Tuesday evening.

Wave Ryders swim well at state meet

The Wave Ryders swim coach has a new look — a very aerodynamic one.

NRA grant helps gun club update range

A large-scale renovation of the pistol range at the Bigfork Gun Club south of Ferndale is complete thanks to a $4,600 grant from the National Rifle Association.

Glacier 14-year-olds drop first two at regional

Games played by the Glacier 14-year-old all-stars in pool play in the regional Babe Ruth tournament in Moscow, Idaho, are ones the players and coaches would like to erase from memory.

NV Hospital appoints new chief of staff

Dr. Mirna Bowden is North Valley Hospital's new chief of staff. As a physician dedicated to advocacy and outreach, Bowden, a board-certified in OB/GYN, is a perfect fit for the position.

Glacier in the Clouds

Irene Shafer

Irene Shafer, 83, passed away peacefully Sunday, Aug. 2, 2009, at home — surrounded by family — after a short battle with cancer.

Raymond Murphy

Raymond Dennis Murphy, 72, of Plains passed away Thursday, July 23, 2009, following a motor vehicle accident. He was born Oct. 15, 1937, in Great Falls to Evelyn and Lee Murphy.

Property taxes mitigated by House bill

Within the next couple weeks, all property tax owners in the state of Montana will receive their new property value assessment notice from the Montana Department of Revenue. There will be bad news and good news.

Autos, Dingbats and AP

Few years back my car was acting up so drove it to the garage. Relying on my vast mechanical wisdom going back to Model-T Fords, I helpfully told the service manager, "You should probably check the distributor."

North Flathead Yacht Club retains Montana Cup

Hiking to one of Glacier's best views

Good turnout for arts festival

Sweltering temperatures on Saturday may have sent crowds packing a little earlier than usual from the annual Bigfork Festival of the Arts' first day, but sunshine kept things brisk for the more than 150 vendors who lined the streets of downtown Bigfork.

Council fails to pass vendor amendment

Salazar may visit Whitefish

Donald Zanto

Donald K. Zanto, 62, passed away from natural causes at the Montana Veterans' Home in Columbia Falls on July 29, 2009.

William Long

William "Bill" Chester Long, 58, passed away Tuesday, July 28, 2009, at his home in Columbia Falls.

Dale Reynolds

Dale Earl Reynolds, 74, passed away in his sleep Saturday, Aug. 1, 2009, due to complications of throat cancer. He was born Sept. 15, 1934, to Merlin and Alice (Nunn) Reynolds along with his twin sister Gale for the whopping price of $12. He often spoke of how the doctor charged Merlin double the going price since there were two babies. They were the fifth and sixth of 10 children. His birth took place in Bemidji, Minn., but his family moved to Montana in 1936, where Merlin found work at the Kalispell Mercantile and Alice was a full-time mother and homemaker.

NFYC retains title in Montana Cup Regatta

Last weekend, yachts from Canada to Idaho competed in the annual Montana Cup races on Flathead Lake, between Somers and Mission View Terrace, taking advantage of some of blue skies on Saturday and near perfect winds on Sunday.

Council sends neighborhood plan to planning board

The Lakeside County Water & Sewer District meeting room resounded with applause, last Tuesday, when the Lakeside Community Council announced a unanimous vote to send the recent Lakeside Neighborhood Plan update on to the Flathead County Planning Board to begin the next phase in the revision process.

Triplett makes Draft Teamster Hall of Fame

Whitefish resident, Tom Triplett, 81, has been selected as an inductee for the Montana Draft Teamster Hall of Fame.

Letter from the editor

Map change consequences remain to be seen

Jenkins tops at Colgate state competition

Before Jonathan Jenkins steps onto stage he knows that folks often wonder how he's going to play a guitar.

Fire department working for citizens

As the new Fire Chief, I am excited to be in this new position. I have a great paid staff and volunteers. They are truly dedicated individuals. I will be writing a monthly column to let the community know what we are doing at the Bigfork Fire Department.

Harris responds to allegations

Late last month, Flathead County planning director Jeff Harris submitted a formal response to the Flathead County Board of County Commissioners, regarding allegations of abuses brought before the commissioners in early July by supporters of the property-rights group American Dream Montana.

West Shore Food Bank readies for BBQ benefit

The West Shore Food Bank will hold it's first ever barbecue benefit at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 8 at the Edgewater RV & Motel in Lakeside.

Sharron (Geis) Robertson

Sharron "Duff" Robertson, 61, formerly of Columbia Falls, passed away at her home in Trout Creek July 28, 2009, from causes associated with cancer.

Week in pictures, Aug. 13

Autos, dingbats, and the AP

The Trailwatcher / G. George Ostrom

Cheers for Volunteers

Ronnie Budge spent her early days in the area of Salt Lake City and Jackson Hole Wyo. She married her childhood friend, Charles Budge, whose career with the National Park Service led to an interesting and nomadic lifestyle. His various duties from ranger to park superintendent led to 11 different national parks, one of which was Glacier.

Somers Reunion recaptures forgotten historyBy Jacob Doran / West Shore News

The highly anticipated Somers Reunion, which took place last Saturday in the Somers fire hall, drew a sizable crowd of current and former Somers residents from all over the United States, as well as those from more distant shores.

Thursday

The Columbia Falls Lions Club meets at 6:30 a.m. on the first and third Thursdays each month at the Back Room, in the same building as the Nite Owl Restaurant. Contact a Lions Club member for information about joining the organization.

In Glacier, ongoing effort to save an iconic tree

If you had been out hiking the Scenic Point trail in Glacier National Park last week you may have noticed something odd: The trees were shaking.

Man makes unusual defense arguments against traffic tickets

A Whitefish-area man was found guilty of three misdemeanor traffic violations at city court on July 30 after making a series of unique defense arguments.

Golf camp gets kids ready for the links

Golf is one of the most beloved summertime activities in Bigfork, and thanks to the Eagle Bend Junior Golf Academy the interest is also spread to the children of the community.

William Plummer

William "Bill" Russell Plummer, 58, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 1, 2009, following a short battle with cancer. He was born on July 18, 1951, in Missoula, to Charles and Sylvia Plummer.

Wave Ryders pull in 17 golds at state meet

The Wave Ryder Swim Club finished their long course season last month by earning 46 medals at the state meet in Bozeman, 17 of which were gold.

Former Bulldogs coach set to join Providence staff

Former Whitefish High School boys basketball coach Eric Stang has accepted a position as graduate coaching assistant at Providence College in Rhode Island.

Protecting public land through legislation

Sen. Jon Tester, with the announcement of his public land legislation, is reclaiming Montana's pride in our long history of protecting the land through legislation.

Remembering friend Irene Shafer

I lost my Hungry Horse source and a good friend. The community will miss a cheerful, helpful, knowledgeable, longtime volunteer.

Pikas doing well in Glacier

It looks like a cute little rat, but is related to the rabbit, and while it lives in some of Glacier National Park's harshest terrain, it doesn't hibernate.

Bigfork golf prodigy leading local youth tour

At just 11 years old, Ryan Keenan of Bigfork is already making a name for himself in Montana's golf community.

Nelson swims to high-point state honors

Karyssa Nelson of the Columbia Falls Swim Team captured high-point honors in the girls 9-10 age group at the 2009 Montana State Swim Meet last weekend in Roundup to cap the summer league. Nelson took gold in the 100-meter freestyle and the 100 individual medley.

Robert Dale McMurren, 87

Robert Dale McMurren, loving husband of Irene McMurren passed away on July 25, 2009, at 9:20 p.m. at his Bigfork Ranch after a short battle with cancer. Dale is survived by his wife Irene McMurren, sister Kathryn Hopp, son Alec McMurren, daughter Kay McMurren and grandchildren, George, Kelly, and Matthew O'Connor, Anna and Issac McMurren.

Huge spruce falls, misses house and garage

Council OKs street funds, equipment

Austyn Darrel Schwegel

Austyn Darrel Schwegel, son of Kyle and Mindy Schwegel, of Columbia Falls, was born June 23, 2009, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Lifted to safety

When the phone rang at Chris Holt's house on July 25, she expected it was her daughter, Stella Holt, calling from Glacier Park.

Foundation for a renaissance

Barry Conger / For the Hungry Horse News

Tax hikes on alcohol good for MT

Many Montanans tend to oppose tax increases, across the board. So it's surprising that we're so complacent when it comes to the enormous burden imposed on us by the abuse of alcoholic beverages.

Effort intensifies to garner support for Lakeside plan

In order to continue to garner support from Lakeside and Somers communities, concerned members of those communities plan to produce an e-newsletter called The Lakeside-Somers Voice.

Gerald Foster

Gerald Riker "Skin" Foster, 88, died July 28, 2009, at his home in Whitefish, after spending what he knew would be his final days joking with family, greeting friends and eating his favorite foods.

Seahawks stay alive in senior SB tourney

For the first time ever, Columbia Falls has a men's senior softball team this year, the Seahawks. The team is sponsored by Dick and Charlotte Sapa at the Blue Moon.