Stories for February 2010

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Thursday, February 25

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier Babe Ruth clinics start

Glacier Babe Ruth Baseball League is offering a six-month free membership at The Wave to those who take head coaching positions in Whitefish or Columbia Falls. Assistant coaches will be offered corporate rates for the year.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Friday

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals so close, but not quite

The Valkyries were nearly able to do what hasn't been done in five years — keep Loyola from winning the Western B Championship game; but, Loyola took the lead for the first time with just 8.9 seconds left and never gave it back and when the buzzer sounded it was the Breakers who were celebrating the 42-41 victory.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Western B Divisionals

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Kats v. WF Divisionals

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Audition Sunday for 'Break a Leg'

Bigfork Eagle

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes, Vals are semifinal bound

The Bigfork Vikings clinched a spot in the semifinals at the Western B Divisional Tournament with a 74-61 victory over No. 3 seeded Valley Christian on Wednesday night in Pablo.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Local's spelling skills run in the family

When sixth grader Marley Sande won the Bigfork Elementary and Middle School spelling bee, it wasn't a big surprise – it was in her blood.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

BLUAC recommends zone change

The Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee unanimously voted to recommend a zone change for a grouping of properties near Parker Lakes Drive and Montana Highway 35.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Big Mountain uphill travel

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Valkyries advance to battle for championship

The Valkyries didn't have their best game of the season, but they did enough to get the job done Friday night when they took out Florence 56-40 in the semifinal round of the Western B Divisional Tournament in Pablo.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Girls take divisional crown

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes end season

The Vikings they ended their hopes for a spot in the state tournament Friday with a 61-60 loss to Plains.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Youth Nordic racing comes to West Glacier

For the first time ever, the Glacier Outdoor Center in West Glacier and the Glacier Nordic Ski Club are teaming up to host "The Race at Glacier" for the 2010 Western States Youth Ski Festival.

February 25, 2010 11 p.m.

Cats win NW A crown

Wednesday, February 24

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

North Shore Ranch case settles

Nearly two years after North Shore Developers sued Flathead County Commissioners when they voted 2-1 to deny their 286-lot subdivision near Somers, the two parties have reached a settlement agreement in the case.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Robert L. Thompson

Robert L. "Bobby" Thompson, 68, died of cancer on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2010, at his home in Columbia Falls. Bobby was born in Conrad, to Charles and Deloris Thompson on Aug. 29, 1941 and grew up in Cut Bank. Bobby was the second of four boys: Teddy, Richard and Ronald. He lived in Spokane briefly, then moved to Columbia Falls in 1989 with his parents and worked for a period of time at Flathead Industries.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Museum needs help with photos of old Glacier Park rigs

When Gil Mangels was 3-years-old he was playing on the beach at Skidoo Bay and he found an interesting looking rock. He showed it to his mom and she said he should keep it. It was a Native American arrowhead.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Cats finish 8-0 in conference

Goodbye conference. Hello playoffs. The Columbia Falls boys basketball team ended their conference record at 8-0 last week, downing Polson away Thursday 67-55.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Students learn from guest artists

Art students at Whitefish High School are going past the traditional mediums of charcoal, watercolor and oil paint this coming month. Aspiring artists will have a chance to try their hands at encaustic painting — painting with pigmented beeswax.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Boardercross at Big Mountain

Fred Thompson edged Dash Kemp at the finish line in the open class at the U.S. Snowboard Association's Inland Northwest boardercross race on Feb. 21 at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Local group seeks donations to help Haitian island

A group in Lakeside is trying to bring aid to what they see as an overlooked area in Haiti struggling with the repercussions of the major earthquake that struck the country in January.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Flathead agreement formalized

Montana and British Columbia signed a memorandum of understanding last week that formalizes the end to mining in the Flathead.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

The Whitefish High School Drama Club will present “Just Another High School Play” in the Whitefish Middle School auditorium on Feb. 25-27 at 7 p.m. After the director abandons a play, The student assistant director and stage manager try to continue, but mayhem ensues because they and the other actors have missed every rehearsal and no one knows exactly what play to perform or who’s in charge. A variety of plays are spoofed, from “Hamlet” to “Little Women,” and the audience will also be asked to participate. Tickets are $8 adults and $4 senior/students available at the door.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Slaybaugh leads spirited effort for Lady 'Dogs

A 25-point rout never felt so good.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals sweep tournament

To very little surprise, the Bigfork Valkyries (17-3) came out of the District 7B Tournament in Libby last weekend the same way they went in to it — on top.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Will work with resort

I was recently quoted in the Whitefish Pilot as saying "it stinks' when asked what I think of any restrictions on winter uphill hikers on the mountain.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Guns OK, but shooting still banned in Glacier

A new law that allows firearms in national parks and wildlife refuges went into effect Monday, but pulling the trigger is illegal in most cases.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Fight to protect Flathead not over

The recent headlines just about said it all: "B.C. Bans Mining and Energy Extraction in the Flathead."

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

My Woodpecker Skis

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Brooklynn Rose Munson

Brooklynn Rose Munson, daughter Rose and Nick Munson, of Whitefish, was born Feb. 6, 2010, at North Valley Hospital.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Letters to the editor

Developing a network for those upset about property taxes

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Sign regs

I wish to express my feelings on what the owner of Mrs. Spoonovers is attempting to do. She contacted the city about the sign and was told no, it did not fit into the current range of sign ordinance laws, as she already had too much signage to do that.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Resort, Forest Service set Big Mt hiking policy

Whitefish Mountain Resort and the U.S. Forest Service announced a new policy on Monday establishing rules for uphill traffic at the ski resort.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Jacqueline Swenson

Jacqueline Joy Hythecker Swenson, 71, beloved mother and grandmother, passed away quietly Feb. 9, 2010.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Girls tops in conference

The Columbia Falls girls go into the divisional tournament with momentum after they beat Polson last Thursday 52-44. With the win, the Kats took the regular season conference crown at 7-1 and finished 12-6 overall.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

'Doughnut' area zoning tabled while talks continue

Council continues wrestling with vending regs

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Commissioners create new finance department

Safe gun storage prevents misuse

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Brewfest targets winter tourists

Look out, Whitefish. Bigfork has a new event organizers hope will steal crowds from its sister tourist destination.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Three to run for council

West Shore News

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Youth Nordic racing comes to West Glacier

For the first time ever, the Glacier Outdoor Center in West Glacier and the Glacier Nordic Ski Club are teaming up to host "The Race at Glacier" for the 2010 Western States Youth Ski Festival.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier Babe Ruth clinics start

Glacier Babe Ruth Baseball League is offering a six-month free membership at The Wave to those who take head coaching positions in Whitefish or Columbia Falls. Assistant coaches will be offered corporate rates for the year.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Marijuana zoning hashed out

The Whitefish City-County Planning Board continued to work on zoning for medical marijuana businesses in Whitefish at their Feb. 18 meeting.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Bulldogs grab conference win over Loggers

This was a season finale worth tuning into.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

$3.5M Tiger grant to fund 2nd St. project

Traffic in downtown Whitefish could be flowing more smoothly one day, thanks to federal stimulus money the city will use for improvements to Second Street between Spokane and Baker avenues.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Sports commentary: One for all, and all for the win

Saturday night was a pretty emotional day for the Bigfork High School basketball programs and their fans.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Benedict signs with Western

Whitefish senior Tanner Benedict signed a Frontier Conference NAIA letter of intent to play football at the University of Montana-Western, in Dillon, the university's coach, Rich Ferris, announced last week. Benedict was one of three recruits from Montana to sign with Western.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Many easy ways to support local schools

Over the last nine years, I have learned many easy ways to help benefit the Lakeside/Somers schools without spending more money then I normally would. Even now that my daughter has moved on to high school, I find that supporting these schools is an easy thing to do.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Grille blends Montana, Old World

Snowmobile suit win means extended season

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Montana, B.C. formally end mining in Flathead

Women's Gathering return canceled

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Reckless behavior cited for ski area rule change

Over the past couple of years, we've noticed an increase in uphill traffic within the Whitefish Mountain Resort ski area boundary, which has now reached a level of concern for safety. Many people have skinned up Big Mountain for years, utilizing the side of the wide-open trails to avoid downhill traffic, staying away from heavy equipment and generally using common sense.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for Volunteers

Bob Lockman was born in South Dakota. After college at Norfolk, Neb., he moved to California to work for Rockwell International where he met his wife Connie.

February 24, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes come out on top

The Vikings (17-3) continue to forge into unfamiliar territory as they head into the Western B Divisional Tournament with something in hand that they have not had in more than a decade — a first place trophy from a post-season tournament.

Thursday, February 18

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes and Vals take down St. Ignatius, head to championships

Both of Bigfork High School's basketball teams faced St. Ignatius in the their first games of the District 7B Tournament in Libby on Friday afternoon, and the Vikings and Valkyries prevailed in each matchup.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Baucus, Tester want North Fork mining promise solidified

Editor's note: This letter was sent to Premier Campbell on Feb. 9.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Revised plan to be reviewed by council

West Shore News

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Reviving VFW post

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier in black and white

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Cats win big against Chiefs, Dogs

The Columbia Falls boys basketball team knocked off two conference rivals last week, dropping Ronan 61-49 Thursday and Whitefish 58-31 Saturday night.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Arch may return to Nucleus

An iconic landmark could be returning to Columbia Falls this year.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Columbia Falls man charged in teen's death

A Columbia Falls man has been charged with vehicular homicide while under the influence of alcohol and criminal endangerment after he allegedly caused an accident that killed a Eureka teen.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Verna McNamara

Verna McNamara, 68, a Fremont, Calif., resident for the past 20 years, died on Jan. 28, 2010 in a Fremont hospital. Born and raised in Cut Bank, she lived for extended periods in both Helena and Columbia Falls before moving to California in 1989.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Backyard diplomacy in North Fork deal

Sometimes, the best way to end a dispute isn't to call in the big shots. The trumpet blowers. The headline grabbers.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Alvin Leon "Lee" Bridges

Alvin Leon "Lee" Bridges, 72, died in Eureka on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010. He was born Aug. 12, 1937 at Roswell, N. M., to Charles and Beadie (Cross) Bridges. He married his high school sweetheart Sharon Tollefson on Dec. 22, 1956.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

County to take over local police dispatch March 1

Federal judge approves longer snowmobile season

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Locals question netting trout

Mining to be banned in Canadian Flathead

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Commissioners accept park

Flathead County Commissioners agreed to accept and maintain the new lakefront park in Lakeside, donated and developed by a local couple.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Couple gifts lake front park

Flathead County Commissioners agreed to accept and maintain the new lakefront park donated and developed by a local couple.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Independent high school offers a different path

It is Whitefish High School's goal to have all students graduate with functional academic skills, social and emotional maturity, and positive self-views.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Boardercross at Big Mountain

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Frosh Valkyries split final games

The froshmore girls basketball team split their final two games of the season, beating Whitefish 24-13 but falling to Ronan 37-15.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Edna Groshong

Edna Lee Groshong, 94, passed away Feb. 3, 2010, at Heritage Place, in Kalispell.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Students plan future careers

MDOT reveals Highway Watch

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Error created page omission

Letter from the editor

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Marsha A. Haugen Wagenhauser

Marsha A. Haugen Wagenhauser rose to heaven to lay her crown at the throne of Jesus to live forever on Feb. 13, 2010. Born Aug. 5, 1955 in Hot Springs to Millard and Sylvia (Sue) Haugen, they moved to Columbia Falls until she graduated from Columbia Falls High School. She met Ralph Wagenhauser, they were married March 22, 1975 and together they had Ryan and Heidi whom she loved, taught and served with the wisdom and excellence that only a woman of God could accomplish.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Atlas outlines avalanche paths

Flathead anglers worried about netting plan

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Curriculum work on schedule

The curriculum realignment process is on track for May completion, teachers told the Bigfork School Board on Wednesday.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Bulldogs crush Vikings, fall to Wildcats

The Bulldogs boys basketball team held Class B Bigfork to single-digit points totals in every quarter Feb. 12, as Whitefish rolled to a 49-27 win over the Vikings.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Christopher Lee Sword

Christopher Lee Sword, 49, of Columbia Falls passed away on Feb. 6, 2010. Chris was born March 13, 1960 in Ashland, Ore., to Phil and Kathleen Sword. Chris was a 1978 graduate of Whitefish High School and a graduate of the University of Montana Technical Center. He operated a full service station and auto repair shop with his father in Columbia Falls in the 1980s.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Highway 82 to get new bridge

Bigfork Eagle

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

The Columbia Falls Community Kitchen will be serving free meals Thursday, Feb. 25 through Sunday, Feb. 28 in the basement of St. Richard’s Catholic Church at 6 p.m.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Tough week for Lady 'Dogs

The Lady Bulldogs basketball team suffered a pair of losses last week, falling 68-43 to Bigfork and 64-25 to conference-rival Columbia Falls.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Ski resort looking at restricting hikers

Plans to change the uphill travel policy at Whitefish Mountain Resort are in the works, according to resort spokesperson Donnie Clapp — meaning those who hike, snowshoe or skin up Big Mountain could face new regulations this season.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

One spot still open on BLUAC

Bigfork Eagle

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Corporate financing would puzzle founders

"These people are my enemies – fierce, bitter, implacable. But they are your enemies too. As they crush me today, they will crush you tomorrow. They will force you to dwell in Standard Oil houses while you live, and they will bury you in Standard Oil coffins when you die."

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Memories of the fly-tying teacher

It all happened years ago. I was attending Central Junior High School in St. Cloud, Minn. We were required to take a series of shop classes and I chose electricity, printing and mechanical drawing. There were seven students in the latter course and we devoted our time to drawing tables and creating 3-dimensional versions of various wood blocks that the instructor, a man named "Mac" Dohme, gave to us.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Sports commentary: Making sense of Class B confusion

I've been hearing some chatter about how post-season play works, so I did some investigating to try to make sense of this game of musical chairs that it seems like the teams are playing to continue to advance.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

The rule of law during war

In response to a recent editorial suggesting that Sen. Max Baucus should share some blame in the case of three Navy SEALs being prosecuted for roughing up a known terrorist in Iraq, I would suggest it is more appropriate to blame the application of a legal paradigm rather than our senior senator of 30 years of service. Allow me to explain.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Hansen hits 100th win as head coach

Bigfork High School head girls basketball coach Mark Hansen hit a big milestone in his coaching career Saturday when his varsity team beat Ronan, giving him his 100th win as a head coach.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Whitefish, Ronan end Vikes' winning-streak

The Vikings varsity basketball team hadn't had to deal with the taste of defeat since Dec. 19, but the boys got a double-dose of it last week when Whitefish knocked them off of their 12-game winning-streak with a 49-27 loss Friday night and Ronan beat them 62-56 in overtime the following night.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Wounded Warrriors

During the week of Feb. 3-8, five Wounded Warriors and their guests who were invited to come to Whitefish to learn to ski also enjoyed the warm hospitality of the community.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals take down Class A rivals

The Valkyries played against some old Northwest A foes last week — Whitefish and Ronan — neither of which probably misses having Bigfork in their conference too much, considering the Vals handed the Lady Bulldogs a 68-43 loss and the Maidens received a 52-16 domination by the District 7B Champions.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Houle takes state crown, fall record

Wildcat senior wrestler Kelly Houle set the school record for falls in a season, pinning all four opponents at the state A wrestling tournament last week.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for Volunteers

Kerrie Byrne found Whitefish by "pure good luck." Born and raised in California but working on a dude ranch in Idaho, she joined a girl friend who was coming to Whitefish. Kerrie fell in love with the place. She vowed if she could find a job, she'd move here.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Girls go 2-1 in conference road trip

The Columbia Falls girls went 2-1 in conference play last week, dropping Ronan Thursday 52-25 and Whitefish Saturday 61-49, but lost to Libby 51-44.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Draft marijuana zoning goes to planning board

A draft zoning ordinance for medical marijuana businesses will be presented to the Whitefish City-County Planning Board during a work session following their regular meeting Thursday, Feb. 18 (tonight), at 6 p.m.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

About Fightin' and Drinkin'

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

MDOT launches Highway Watch Program

The Montana Department of Transportation unveiled a Highway Watch Program last week for areas of concern on both Montana Highway 35 and U.S. Highway 93 near Flathead Lake.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Special Olympics ignites community spirit

Cowbells are to ski races what tailgating is to football — where there's one, you'll likely find the other.

Obituaries
February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices for people who have lived in the Bigfork area. To submit, e-mai

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Council looks at how to define 'artwork'

The Whitefish City Council strayed onto the slippery slope of judging art while considering what one councilor hoped would be a solution to the Mrs. Spoonovers lawsuit at their Feb. 16 meeting.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Benedict battles back for fourth

Bulldog senior wrestler Tanner Benedict nearly found the podium at the Class A state tournament Feb. 12-13 in Billings by winning four matches in a row after a first-round loss pushed him into the consolation bracket.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Recalling memories of the King

Letter from the editor

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier Nordic to send three to nationals

Anne Miller and Stella Holt each found the podium in the 10-kilometer free event on Feb. 13 at Bogus Basin, Idaho — the third of three Junior Olympic qualifying races for the Glacier Nordic ski team. Their top-tier finishes, coupled with strong performances in the previous two qualifiers, means the duo has clinched a spot on the Intermountain national team.

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

District 7B Champions

February 18, 2010 11 p.m.

Floats like a butterfly

Even at 11 years old, Jake Cirincione has the look of a swimmer.

Thursday, February 11

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

File to run for BLUAC seats by Feb. 18

Bigfork Eagle

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Girls thump Pirates for conference lead

The Columbia Falls girls basketball team took sole possession of first place last in the conference week by dropping Polson 61-40.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Horsemen log long hours in 2009

Back Country Horsemen of the Flathead saw a big increase in volunteer service last year, continuing a tradition of working in the backcountry since 1973.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Snowskate jam a big success

This year's Yeti Snowskate Jam held during Winter Carnival was the sixth year of the event and the most successful yet. The Snowkate Jam is planned for kids by kids and had 30 contestants this year.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Bigfork kicks off Pelton's Montana stops

About a dozen years ago, Ryan Pelton owned his own Web development company, had never sung in public and evaded suggestions that he looked like a famous king.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Students divided on cell-phone risks

A few months ago, 160 Whitefish High School students completed a survey on the current cell phone policy. An overwhelming majority said they'd like to see the high school allow the use of cell phones during school hours.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Students gain focus with yoga

When Bigfork Elementary School students come home excitedly talking about lions, heroes and downward-facing dogs, parents may think they are talking about characters from books.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Kathryn Joan Ellman Lundstrom

Kathryn Joan Ellman Lundstrom was welcomed with open arms by the Lord and the love of her life, Darvin Lundstrom on Feb. 3, 2010. She was born in Hinsdale on Oct. 22, 1928, at the age of 3, the family moved to Columbia Falls. Being the second to the youngest of 12 children, there was always love, laughter and family around.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Haymoon Resort and Retreat Center will host the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce’s Gone Fishin’ social on Thursday, Feb. 18, from 5-7 p.m. at their location on Hodgson Road between U.S. 93 and Whitefish Stage Road. The event will be catered by Wasabi Sushi Bar and Ginger Grill. For more information, call 862-1471 or 270-8771 or visit online at www.haymoonresort.com.

Obituaries
February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices for people who have lived in the Bigfork area. To submit, e-mai

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals finish conference schedule undefeated

With just two games left before the District 7B Tournament, the Valkyries basketball team is at the top of its game having scored big wins over Plains, 67-22, and Troy, 66-18, last week to end their regular season undefeated in conference play; and the girls faced a tougher opponent in Class A Libby where they fell 44-41.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Alvin Leon "Lee" Bridges

Alvin Leon "Lee" Bridges, 72, died in Eureka on Sunday, Feb. 7, 2010. He was born Aug. 12, 1937 at Roswell, N. M., to Charles and Beadie (Cross) Bridges. He married his high school sweetheart Sharon Tollefson on Dec. 22, 1956.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Michael G. Haugen

Michael G. Haugen, 41, loving husband, son, brother, uncle, nephew, and friend lost a brave battle with cancer Feb. 1, 2010.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Council supports new park

At it's January meeting, the Lakeside Community Council agreed to offer support of the new lakefront park in Lakeside.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

The center of Whitefish

Real estate swaps, railroad contamination and traffic congestion were some of the issues raised during a Feb. 1 Whitefish City Council work session on where to locate a new City Hall.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Week in photos - Feb. 18

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for volunteers

Kurt Blades was born and raised in Columbia Falls. After college at Montana State University-Bozeman and Pacific University, Ore., he opened his optometry practice in Whitefish. Always athletic, Kurt grew up taking part in most of the established school sports and took advantage of the local amenities of golfing, skiing, hiking and camping.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

MDOT reveals Highway Watch Program for highways near Flathead Lake

The Montana Department of Transportation unveiled a Highway Watch Program on Wednesday for areas of concern on both Montana Highway 35 and U.S. Highway 93 near Flathead Lake.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Library displays local artists' work

Residents who have paid a visit to the West Shore Community Library may notice something has changed on its walls over the past few months.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Five firsts for MatCats at tourney

A couple of weeks ago, Columbia Falls wrestling coach Jessie Schaeffer approached senior Shawn Whitman about his decision to not wrestle this year.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Bulldogs split nonconference games

The Whitefish boys basketball team's roller-coaster season took an upward turn last week when the 'Dogs broke a six-game losing streak Feb. 6 by knocking off Eureka 69-45 in a nonconference match at home.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes secure top spot in District 7B

Victories in two tight games earned the Vikings regular season District 7B Champion bragging rights last week.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Skaters jam on the snow

The sixth annual Whitefish Winter Carnival Yeti Snowskate Jam was held at Kiddie Park, on Baker Avenue, on Saturday, Feb. 6.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Village readies for Valentine's Day

Letter from the editor

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Cold shooting hurts Lady 'Dogs' chances

The Lady Bulldogs dropped two nonconference games last week, losing to both Eureka and Frenchtown by 27 points.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals knock down Lady Bulldogs

By the end of the first quarter there was little question that the Bigfork Valkyries were about to tack another win onto their now 14-3 record, and three quarters later the proof was in the 68-43 score.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Women's Gathering returns

After a four-year hiatus, Bigfork's Women's Gathering is back by popular demand.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Pre-release center draws harsh criticism

Cable TV agreement opens possibilities

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Seeking solutions to the property tax dilemma

For the past few months, I have been working diligently on the property reappraisal problem. In conjunction with the other legislators in the area, we have hosted several town hall meetings where we were able to listen to people from all over Flathead and Lake counties about their concerns with the inequity in property taxation. I have also had dozens of discussions with property owners along with many discussions with the local property tax assessor's office. We have paid close attention to your suggestions for solutions.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

About Sqelios and Activists

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

History of 'Taps'

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Subzero summit

Climber bags Kintla in winter for second time

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Sports commentary: Vikes, Vals face tougher road in Class B tournaments

The Valkyries and Vikings basketball teams have finished their regular season conference games, and both were able to do so without losing a single one, which in-turn earned them each the District 7B Championship.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Canadians say they won't mine Flathead

The province of British Columbia will apparently enact a moratorium on mineral and coal extraction in the Canadian Flathead.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Another High School Play

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Reginald MacDonald

Reginald MacDonald, 85, passed away peacefully and surrounded by family Feb. 7, 2010.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Kate Anika Cooke

Kate Anika Cooke, daughter of Barb and Chance Cooke, of Whitefish, was born Jan. 23, 2010, at North Valley Hospital.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Verna McNamara

Verna McNamara, 68, a Fremont, Calif., resident for the past 20 years, died on Jan. 28, 2010 in a Fremont hospital. Born and raised in Cut Bank, she lived for extended periods in both Helena and Columbia Falls before moving to California in 1989.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Five grapplers punch ticket to Billings

Whitefish's wrestling squad will send five grapplers to the Class A state meet in Billings this weekend.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

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Letter from the editor

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Cabin Fever Days

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Whitefish takes top honors for health care costs

A recent nationwide survey ranks Whitefish as one of the least expensive rural hospital service areas for Medicare costs, second only to Bonners Ferry, Idaho. North Valley Hospital's costs are 51 percent lower than the national average for Medicare costs, the survey states.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Coal, oil & gas development banned in Canadian Flathead

Local environmentalists applauded the British Columbian government on Tuesday as it took a 'significant" step in protecting wilderness lands along Glacier National Park's northern boundary.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Hall of Fame class of 2010 to be honored

The 2010 Whitefish High School Hall of Fame induction is slated for Saturday, Feb. 13, when

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Boys edge Pirates for conference lead

Kyle Howell had a stellar weekend, leading the Columbia Falls boys basketball team to two wins as they captured sole possession of first place in the Northwest A conference.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals cruise past Ronan

The Valkyries finished their regular season with a smooth 52-16 victory over Ronan on Saturday night.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes lose back-to-back games

They say nothing lasts forever, and the Bigfork Vikings basketball team's winning-steak is no exception.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Locals sculpt Spam into art

Rehberg staffer to hold office hours in Bigfork

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Staff, other cuts could save Canyon school, for now

Canyon Elementary appears to have earned a reprieve, at least for one year.

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

Children need two doses to protect against H1N1 virus

Newspaper publisher announces retirement

February 11, 2010 11 p.m.

U.S. Telemark Team says thanks

The local members of the U.S. National Telemark Team would like to thank our community for their continued support. We're working to raise money so we can host the 2010 U.S. Telemark National Championships, which will be held at Whitefish Mountain Resort on March 18-21. Recently, a fundraiser was held at the Great Northern Bar and Grill.

Thursday, February 4

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes battle to stay undefeated

As the Vikings varsity basketball team enters into their final week of conference play, they remain undefeated in District 7B after beating Thompson Falls, 72-64, and St. Ignatius, 66-23, each for the second time this season.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Betty Boyd memories

GLADYS SHAY / For the Hungry Horse News

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Cats thump Dogs to close out regular season

The Columbia Falls wrestling team finished its regular season with a 54-19 win over a Whitefish squad that didn't put very many wrestlers on the mat.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

State acknowledges Railway District test results

In more good news for the Railway District in downtown Whitefish, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality has reviewed the results of the city's subsurface investigation and given a thumbs up for the neighborhood.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

'Dogs struggle in conference games

The Bulldogs boys basketball team took a few steps back last week after consecutive losses against conference foes Ronan and Libby.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Week in photos - Feb. 11

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Community tells district to keep school open

Parents, staff and friends of Canyon Elementary don't want to see their school close.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

'Mean-spirited' elections expected

Commissioner of Political Practices Dennis Unsworth and two of his staff members came to Whitefish last week for a forum on election regulations.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Grapplers heat up for divisional meet

Whitefish's individual success on the mat took another boost Jan. 30 against rival Columbia Falls, as the 'Dogs tallied three wins, including a pin. The strong performance comes at the right time, as the team heads to the divisional tourney this weekend in Polson.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Digging in: Four city workers laid off

Four Whitefish city workers, including three from the city planning and building department, were indefinitely laid off last week. The action follows the layoff of a building inspector last year.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Drug waste poses threat to drinking water

Whitefish Pilot

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

King's tribute

Dear Royal Editor of the Realm,

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

2010 census forms soon to be available

Grizzly bears may come off Endangered Species List

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Friday

Obituaries
February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices for

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

City jail to remain open during day as holding facility

The Columbia Falls jail won't close after all — at least not entirely. Police Chief Dave Perry said the jail will remain in use as a holding facility for the city court during weekday hours.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Holt takes third at Soldier Hollow qualifier sprint

The Glacier Nordic Ski Team came away from the second Junior Olympic Qualifier on Jan. 29-30 at Soldier Hollow, Utah, in good position to send three racers to nationals later this winter.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Students tackle stereotypes on trip to Browning

Students from Bigfork and Browning met in January to break down stereotypes through conversation and shared experiences.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Coal, oil & gas development banned in Canadian Flathead

Local environmentalists applauded the British Columbian government on Tuesday as it took a ÒsignificantÓ step in protecting wilderness lands along Glacier National ParkÕs northern boundary.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

State thespian festival

Theater at Whitefish High School is not only entertaining and memorable — it can be just as competitive as any other sport.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Council holds on to plan

The Lakeside Community Council opted to hang on to the Lakeside Neighborhood Plan for another month before sending it on to the Flathead County Planning Board.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Private investigation clears planning office, LNPC

The results of a third-party investigation into Flathead County Planning and Zoning staff released last week clear planners of allegations of improprieties.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Local running club formed

It's before dawn, there are just a handful of cars parked along Central Avenue and already a line seven-deep is forming outside of Montana Coffee Traders.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Wildcats talk way to fifth title

If there was ever any doubt that the Columbia Falls speech and debate team wasn't the best in the state, that doubt was squashed Saturday when the Wildcats won their fifth straight Class A state championship.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

New valleywide stormwater group forms

Northwest Montana News Network

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

51st Whitefish Winter Carnival

Going To The Sun Celebrating Glacier National ParkÕs Centennial

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

A Calm evening in Glacier

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Agnes Lamb

With her family surrounding her, Agnes Lamb, a longtime Whitefish resident, went to be with the Lord on Jan. 29, 2010.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Lady 'Dogs break winless streak

Jessica Slaybaugh had tears in her eyes as she walked off the basketball court Jan. 28 — but this time they were for all the right reasons.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

A second look at beach expansion

The Whitefish City Council took up the idea of expanding City Beach at its Feb. 1 meeting and unanimously agreed to begin negotiations with the owner of an adjacent property. A Park Board subcommittee will assist city manager Chuck Stearns in the talks.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Mazur, Danczyk, Schiff take first at state

Seniors Joe Mazur, Matt Danczyk and Tyler Schiff walked away from the State Class A Speech, Debate and Drama Tournament as state champions. The Bulldog team finished third behind Columbia Falls and Billings Central at the meet held in Corvallis, which included 21 schools.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Publisher announces retirement

Scout makes new sign possible for schools

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

City ice rink seeing more use

Sundrop Health adds produce, new inventory

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Vikes, Vals get past Plains

The Bigfork Vikings (9-0, 14-1) basketball team clinched the District 7B regular season title Thursday night with a 72-57 win over Plains (5-1, 13-1), which didn't come as easy as the score implies.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Obama seen taking a stronger leadership role

It isn't the American people who aren't eager for change. It's Barack Obama. The President spent his first year in office either unwilling or unable to change his approach to the Congress. His virtually hands-off, milk-toast attitude toward providing legislative leadership has stymied the public's demand for change.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Pondering Things Poetic

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for Volunteers

Shirlee Yeats, daughter of Rueben and Fern Larson, was born and raised in Whitefish. Her life revolves around the survivors of her extended family, which consists of a son, a stepson and daughter, six grandchildren and eight great grandchildren.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

District kicks off search

The search will officially begin this week for a new superintendent for the Bigfork School District.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Betty June (Peterson) Boyd

Betty June (Peterson) Boyd passed away Thursday, Jan. 28, 2010 at the age of 81. She was born on Feb. 23, 1928 in Woodbine, Iowa, to Willie and Edna Peterson.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Lala I. Schultz

Lala I. Schultz, 70, of Coram, born May 8, 1939 in Casper, Wyo., died late on the evening of Jan. 25, 2010 of lung disease.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Probe clears county planning director

Northwest Montana News Network

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Pelton adds second Elvis performance

Bigfork Eagle

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Jacqueline "Jackie" Evelyn Smithey Cornelius

Jacqueline Cornelius, much-loved mother, Nana, and friend, went to be with her Savior, Jesus Christ, Tuesday, Jan. 5, 2010. She died peacefully in her sleep at home from cancer. Known as Jackie, she spent her lifetime thinking of others. Not only will she be missed by her loving family, but by all those around her.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Vals stay solid in conference play

The Valkyries won their eighth and ninth straight games last week as they beat Thompson Falls 65-42 on the road Saturday and St. Ignatius 45-26 at home Friday.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Freestyle team places at Night Rider event

The first event of the Night Riders Park Series at Whitefish Mountain Resort ended well for several members of the resort's freestyle team.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Winter Carnival

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Bigfork kicks off Pelton's Montana stops

About a dozen years ago, Ryan Pelton owned his own Web development company, had never sung in public and evaded suggestions that he looked like a famous king.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Functioning smoke alarms save lives

In the valley last month, there were five structure fires.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

City, EPA continue talks on river clean-up

'Doughnut' zoning moving forward

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Cats bust out against T. Falls

The Columbia Falls boys basketball team stopped its skid, downing class B Thompson Falls 74-48 at home last Thursday.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Girls ground Bluehawks as well

The Columbia Falls girls basketball team scored 18 points last Thursday before opponent Thompson Falls even dropped a bucket. From there, the Wildkats cruised to a 71-39 victory.

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

File to run for BLUAC seats by Feb. 18

Bigfork Eagle

February 4, 2010 11 p.m.

Reappraisal mitigation

I would like to thank everyone who attended the Property Tax Mitigation Forum at Flathead Valley Community College and the Revenue and Transportation Committee Hearing in Helena on property tax reappraisal. These forums were truly constructive; the attending legislators all came away with valuable information.