Tuesday, April 30
District 1 music festival results
Flathead and Glacier high schools hosted the 2013 District No. 1 Music Festival on April 18-20. Students represented high schools across Northwest Montana.
School news
Grad party
Bipartisan approach to forest management
The state legislature gaveled to a close last week, a couple days shy of the 90 days maximum set by law. Even though there were numerous media articles regarding the hot button topics of taxes and tax reform, pay bands and pensions, Medicaid expansion and so forth, legislation pertaining to forestry and forest management (not being the issue de jour) never made the press.
New ports important for Montana ag
Montana exports had a record year in 2012. Led by grain, Montana exported more than $2.48 billion in high value grain last year. We’re producing products and commodities that the world wants, and all our communities benefit from the resulting jobs, economic growth and tax revenue.
Taking stock: Governor, leaders assess 2013 Legislature
Montana’s 2013 Legislature had barely adjourned last week when state leaders from both major parties began chalking up the session’s successes and failures.
Monday, April 29
Plea to not fire Agency on Aging director
I write this as a plea to Flathead County Commissioners Pam Holmquist and Gary Kruger not to push for termination of Lisa Shepherd, director of the County Agency on Aging. As well, I ask local residents to voice their support for Lisa Tuesday morning when the commissioners will decide whether or not to retain her. It will be a great loss to our valley, especially to local seniors, if Shepherd is prohibited from serving the people of our valley in her selfless manner.
PSC opposes proposed greenhouse gas regulations
The Montana Public Service Commission recently went on record unanimously opposing a federal agency’s proposed rules to restrict greenhouse gas emissions for new power plants, particularly coal-fired generators.
Managing wolves
After 832F, a radio-collared 6-year-old alfa female wolf, was needlessly shot by hunters earlier this winter, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials closed areas around Yellowstone National Park to hunting and trapping wolves. Thank you FWP.
Cool spring is maintaining mountain snowpack
A cool spring in Northwest Montana has kept an above average snowpack clinging to the mountains, yet the potential for local flooding remains unlikely.
Federal budget cuts could impact trail work
Local Forest Service officials aren’t talking
Do the county commissioners have a heart?
The following letter was sent to the Flathead County Commissioners.
Governor signs bill on repeat DUI offenders
Gov. Steve Bullock signed Attorney General Tim Fox’s bill aimed at cracking down on repeat DUI offenders on April 26.
Sunday, April 28
Arbor Day: More than just a day to plant trees
Editor’s note: Arbor Day will be celebrated in Columbia Falls at River’s Edge Park on Friday, May 3, at noon with fifth-graders from Glacier Gateway Elementary School helping to plant trees.
Medicaid, dark money and reappraisal bills fall
The 63rd Montana Legislature came to a close in a flurry of last-minute activity last week as the state budget bill was finalized.
Saturday, April 27
Max to Montanans: Let's get to work
Serving you is the greatest privilege of my life. Over the past 40 years, I’ve had one goal — make life better for the people of this state.
Friday, April 26
No hiker-biker restrictions on Sun Road this weekend
More sections of Glacier National Park roads are now open. The Inside North Fork Road is open to Doverspike Meadow through Big Prairie. The Two Medicine Road is plowed, but it’s only open to Running Eagle Falls.
The moderate majority
Here’s to working together. Here’s to the slow, arduous pursuit of compromise. Here’s to the overlooked, underappreciated, unglamorous middle ground. These days, we hear so much from the fringes that it’s easy to forget that progress is possible.
Thursday, April 25
Mountain snowpack above average
A cool spring in Northwest Montana has kept an above average snowpack clinging to the mountains, yet the potential for local flooding remains unlikely.
River honoring May 6 on lower Flathead River
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai tribes announces the 2013 River Honoring event begins Monday, May 6
FVCC president Jane Karas to speak at Lakeside chamber lunch
The Lakeside-Somers Chamber of Commerce meeting is Tuesday, April 30th at Noon at the Vista Linda in Somers.
Spartan obstacle race to be held in Bigfork
A four-mile obstacle race involving mud, fire, wall-climbing, spear-throwing, sandbag-carrying and a gladiator throwdown is scheduled to take place south of Bigfork on Saturday, May 11.
Backs commissioner for Agency on Aging vote
I apologize to Flathead County Commissioner Cal Scott. Before he was elected I wrote letters in opposition of him to the media. At that time, I did not believe he would make a good commissioner. However, after attending a commissioner meeting April 24, my opinion of Commissioner Scott has changed. My initial judgment of you was wrong, Commissioner Scott.
Oren Ford
Oren O. Ford, 79, of Columbia Falls, passed away on April 23, 2013, from a lengthy illness. He was born Dec. 29, 1933, to Lester Wilson Ford and Mary Ellen Ford.
Rosalie Keys
Rosalie A. Keys, 65, of Columbia Falls, died April 21, 2013, in Kalispell.
Wednesday, April 24
Reconsider name change to Twins tourney
I’m writing this letter in regards to the article (Whitefish Pilot, April 3) stating that the Glacier Twins Legion baseball program is renaming the Sapa/Johnsrud Memorial Tournament to the Glacier Twins Memorial Tournament.
Basketball coaching dilemma
I would like to make three important points regarding the girls basketball coach not being rehired:
Robert Wayne McFadden
Robert “Wayne” McFadden, 84, passed away early April 2 at his home in Kalispell due to complications of Parkinson’s disease.
Softball crushes Browning at plate
Whitefish’s softball team put a notch in the win column last week with a 23-2 beat down at home against Browning. Senior Andrea Lamaroux threw a 1-hitter in a stellar outing from the pitching circle.
What you see is not what you get
When it comes to a school board trustee, what you see is not what you get.
'We the People' deserve more
In a respectful response to Rep. Ed Leiser’s recent article on the workings of the Montana Legislature, I would offer the following commentary for consideration.
Lady Dogs hang with state champs
The Lady Bulldog tennis team held their own Saturday against the defending state champions. The Lady Pirates prevailed 4-3 in the conference dual, but Whitefish left Polson knowing they can hang with one of the best teams they’ll face all season.
Police calls: Man loses lip ring, punches window
2012 a record year for tourism
The numbers are in: Out-of-state tourists came to Montana last year in record numbers — and they spent a record amount of money.
Making a racquet
It’s not a stretch to say that Mingo Guerrero is trying to pass his love of racquetball onto a younger generation.
Change needed in the sign code
The recent letters and phone calls strongly point out the need for a third party review of the U.S. 93 South corridor. If something as small as a movable sign generates this much publicity there is a need for change.
County declines to participate in 93 South study
Flathead County won’t participate in a study for the U.S. 93 South corridor that runs through the two-mile planning “doughnut” outside Whitefish, the county commissioners said Monday.
Hospital begins $1M expansion
North Valley Hospital in Whitefish broke ground last week on a fourth operating suite needed to keep pace with a surgery volume that has increased 22 percent over the past four years.
Dogs dominate at Libby track meet
Whitefish was a dominate force Saturday as both the boys and girls track teams won overall titles at the Libby Invitational.
No clear consensus on parking structure
Plans for a combined downtown parking structure and city hall garnered mixed reviews from both Whitefish City Councilors and the public at a recent work session. There remains no clear consensus of support or disapproval of the proposed $9 million project after final review of the feasibility and design study.
WHS 2013 Talent Show
Minor changes to sign code considered
The Whitefish City-County Planning Board April 18 agreed to examine the city sign code and look for ways to update the regulations while still leaving the document largely intact.
Whitefish 8-year-old learns to live with juvenile arthritis
A smile spreads across Hannah Gesek’s face when she talks about animals and drawing. Seemingly like most 8-year-olds, she bubbles with excitement to tell a visitor about the stuffed animal under her arm. What’s not obvious is that Hannah suffers from a disease most often associated with older adults.
Tester speaks about his gun vote
Earlier this month, I met with the families of the shooting victims at Sandy Hook Elementary School. It was a heart-wrenching meeting. I couldn’t help but think of my kids and my grandkids as I listened to the families’ tragic stories.
Fishing Fraternity: close bonds formed in Mack Days fishing tournament
Fishing has a way of making friends.
Let It Grow: Brosten farm planting project controls erosion
Some things grow on you.
Busy Building: Youth with a Mission construction crews stay busy
It’s been five years and counting for David Garrigan, the facilities manager at Youth With A Mission in Lakeside, and he’s loving it.
Regier explains vote against Medicaid expansion
The 63rd Montana Legislature is in its last week. One issue that has received a large amount of attention this session is Medicaid expansion. There have been some bills that address this topic.
Kats drop Libby, do well at Kalispell tourney
It was a busy week of tennis for Columbia Falls as the teams played a slew of matches in weather that was often less than friendly.
Cats hone track times, Osborne wins at home
Josiah Osborne won three races on a blustery day at home April 16 as Columbia Falls hosted a track meet with Libby, Whitefish and Eureka.
Wildkats split the bill, Libby game rained out
The Columbia Falls softball team split a nonconference bill last week, losing to Flathead High School 6-4 at home, but bouncing back to beat Stevensville away over the weekend, 11-0.
News from 1948: $100,000 improves water system
Unusual vote tally showing 137 favoring and only one opposing meant a new $100,000 improved water system for Columbia Falls in a special election. There were 201 registered voters in 1948.
Study will look at bees in burned areas
Over the past 20 years, from Yellowstone National Park to Glacier, large wildfires have continuously transformed the landscape. Now a Montana State University bee researcher has plans for a three-year study of the burns and the bees and plants that grow back in a post-fire world across western Montana.
Glacier Park news
Prescribed burn
Outdoor news
ALERT banquet
Broadband coming to St. Mary - eventually
St. Mary will finally see broadband Internet access, although it may take awhile to actually be implemented.
2012: A record tourist year
The numbers are in: Out-of-state tourists came to Montana last year in record numbers — and they spent a record amount of money.
C-Falls man sentenced for injuring infant girl
A 21-year-old Columbia Falls man was sentenced to seven years in prison, all suspended, after he pleaded guilty in a child abuse case.
Tester talks sales tax and gun votes
Sen. Jon Tester said last week he’s concerned about a bill being considered by Congress that would require states with no sales tax like Montana to collect it for states that have a sales tax.
Canyon project foreclosed
Judge orders subdivision to be auctioned
Community news
Free meals
One good eye is enough for Olympic sharp shooter
Tyler Volkman practices shooting his air pistol about six to eight hours a week. He shoots in his grandfather’s shop, at the 4-H shooting range at the fairgrounds, or inside his grandparents’ house.
Students organize drug prevention program
Three Columbia Falls High School students interested in careers in the health industry have organized a drug-prevention program targeting junior high students.
93 West corridor study moves forward
Whitefish City Councilors awarded a contract for the U.S. 93 West Corridor Plan to WGM Group, despite recommendations to accept the lowest bidder.
Tuesday, April 23
Northwest Ballet presents Sleeping Beauty in Bigfork
The Northwest Ballet Company presents its 33rd Annual Spring Show Production, "Sleeping Beauty" on Mother's Day Weekend at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.
Jason Mahlen leads Mack Days
Jason Mahlen continues his lead in the 2013 Spring Mack Days fishing tournament with 993 lake trout entries at the half way mark of the event.
PEO offers scholarships for women
Women seeking education beyond high school have an opportunity to apply for one of eight financial awards for continuing her advanced education.
Sports news
B-ball tourney
Tributes pour in for Baucus
Gov. Steve Bullock made the following statement on Sen. Max Baucus’ announcement that he won’t run for re-election in 2014:
Cold temperatures set new records
Brrrrr. It sure got cold last week. The temperature dropped to 16 degrees at Glacier Park International Airport the morning of April 17, tying a record set in 1968, according the National Weather Service. Missoula also dipped to 16 degrees, wrecking the previous record of 19 degrees set in 1896.
Wolf jargon
There are hidden meanings in the article “Wolf numbers: Still higher than recovery goals” in the April 17 issue of the Hungry Horse News.
Wolf politics
In response to the Mr. Peck letter, I say enough is enough. These folks, like Mr. Peck and all the rest of his wolf lovers, have never once bought a hunting license or anything else that has produced the game animal levels through professional management.
Monday, April 22
Ski resort announces season pass prices
Whitefish Mountain Resort’s 2013-14 adult winter season pass will sell at an early-season rate of $595 through Sept. 30. The price is a $15 increase over last season’s rate of $580.
Glacier Lanes bowling results
Glacier Lanes Bowling
Raft company honored with Eco Award
Glacier Guides and Montana Raft Company will be recognized at the state capital with an Eco Star Award on April 24 by Montana State University and the Montana Governor’s office for their 2012 pollution prevention efforts. Eco-Star Awards are given to small businesses in Montana that have shown great effort over the past year in pollution prevention.
FWP sued for allowing trapping in lynx habitat
Environmental groups have sued Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to stop certain trapping methods in lynx habitat. The federal lawsuit claims lynx end up being caught and sometimes killed in the process, in violation of the Endangered Species Act.
Farmers market bills passed in legislature
The 2013 session was the one which took small steps to take our food supply back and loosen the government control at our dinner tables. Backyard gardens and the value of fresh products are touted on bumper stickers across this state: Who’s your farmer?
Protests name change for baseball tourney
The following letter was sent to the Glacier Twins Legion baseball team’s board.
Blasdel does not represent the people
The estimates are that approximately 12,000 Flathead Valley residents and approximately 20 percent of all Montanans currently do not have access to health insurance. It appears these folks may not have an option of affordable health care anytime in the near future, if several Flathead Republicans have their way.
Saturday, April 20
Supreme Court explains water compact decision
Unanimous ruling claims issues incorrectly addressed
Obama: 'This has been a tough week.'
The following statement about the capture of the suspect in the Boston Marathon bombings was made by President Barack Obama in the James S. Brady Press Briefing Room on April 19, 2013.
Friday, April 19
Ski resort to begin work on Flower Point chairlift
Whitefish Mountain Resort will begin clearing timber on the north side of the ski area this summer in preparation for installation of a new chairlift to Flower Point.
Hungry Horse man sentenced for knife incident
A 22-year-old Hungry Horse man was sentenced to 10 years with the Montana Department of Corrections with five suspended after he pleaded guilty Dec. 6, 2012, to felony assault with a weapon.
Flower Point chairlift work to begin this summer
Whitefish Mountain Resort will begin clearing timber on the ski area’s north side this summer in preparation for a new chairlift to Flower Point.
Bullock speaks about losing Medicaid expansion
The following statement on Medicaid expansion was made by Gov. Steve Bullock during a press conference in Helena on April 19, 2013.
Legislature doesn't ratify CSKT water compact
Tribes say they might take matter to court
Thursday, April 18
Valkyries down Flathead in tennis
Following some tough competition at Kalispell last week, the Bigfork High School tennis teams will travel to Whitefish on Thursday before hosting the Bigfork Flight Tournament on Saturday.
Bigfork High School calendar of events
All students will be released at 1:00 p.m.
Ground Zero: New studies show Somers contamination larger than expected
A groundwater remedy at the former Burlington Northern tie plant in Somers is “not even close,” Diana Hammer, the Environmental Protection Agency’s project manager for Somers, said last week.
Birthday Girl: Maggie Pontius turns 99
She was a mover and a shaker in her day.
Hot Tickets: Bigfork Summer Playhouse announces lineup for 2013
With seven returning actors and a strong slate of musicals, the Bigfork Summer Playhouse enters its 54th season in fine fashion.
Turkey hunter shoots at charging grizzly bear
A turkey hunter shot at a charging grizzly bear Sunday near Creston.
Snowpack slightly below normal
Entering the month of March most basins around the state of Montana were near to slightly below normal, with the St. Mary-Milk River Basin having the highest percentage of basin normal at 108 percent, and the Bitterroot River Basin with the lowest percentage at 85 percent, according to snow survey data from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service.
2013 Creston Auction
Highlights from the Creston Auction
North Shore Nordic Club caps successful year
The North Shore Nordic Club recently capped its best season ever, with more skiers and additional funding to help keep the crosscountry center near Echo Lake open during low snow years.
Spartan Race to attract thousands to Bigfork
More than 3,000 people have registered for Bigfork’s May 11-12 running of Montana’s first Spartan Race, an obstacle course event that could feature mud, fire, wall-climbing, spear-throwing, sandbag-carrying, a gladiator throwdown and other challenging surprises.
Obama speaks about Senate vote on gun laws
President Barack Obama made the following statement a the White House on April 17, 2013, following the U.S. Senate’s vote on changing gun laws.
Eleanor Landsberger
Eleanor (Stramer, Shea) Landsberger, 91, passed away peacefully at the home of her son Bernie Shea in Polson on April 12, 2013.
Wednesday, April 17
WHS project moves ahead despite budget overages
Higher than expected contractor bids in the second phase for the remodel of Whitefish High School has the project sitting above cost estimates. However, the school board approved the bid package, along with a plan to deal with the issue if savings aren’t found in the final phase of the project.
Lady Dogs sweep Libby in tennis
The Lady Bulldogs kicked off their tennis season with a clean sweep of conference foe Libby at home, winning all seven matches in two sets. The dual win marked the beginning of an impressive week for a team with high expectations.
Whitefish eyed as possible home for $70M resort
Developers have turned their focus to Whitefish as the possible home for a $70 million resort with a convention center and 150-room upscale hotel.
Parliamentary procedures abused
Representing Whitefish over the past 70 days has been a wonderful experience in many ways. I’ve learned a tremendous amount about how our government functions and met some great people that are intelligent, unselfish and devoted to what they think is best for Montana.
School district will run $36,000 levy
The Whitefish School District is asking voters to approve a $36,000 levy to help with a tight budget that is anticipated if there is no increase in funding from the state.
School board election profile: Nick Polumbus
Nick Polumbus wants to make sure curriculum in the schools is the best it can be and that it will prepare students for the future. It’s one of the main reasons he is running for a spot on the Whitefish School Board.
Dog-Cat swim team approved
A joint swim team for Whitefish and Columbia Falls high schools finally has local approval.
Costain wins freeskiing finals
Whitefish freeskier Parkin Costain, 13, wrapped up his season with a first place finish in Revelstoke, B.C., at the International Freeskiing Association North American Championships.
Harwood qualifies in 400
Senior runner Logan Harwood overcame blustery conditions to post an impressive day on the track at last week’s Flathead Time Trials in Kalispell.
School board election profile: Karla West
Karla West says her career in education and work with nonprofit organizations would be helpful in overseeing the school district if elected as a Whitefish School Board trustee.
Softball solid at plate in loss to Libby
Whitefish’s softball team put the bat to the ball in last week’s game against Libby, but struggled to turn baserunners into points on the scoreboard.
School board election profile: Ruth Harrison
Incumbent Whitefish School District Board member Ruth Harrison says she wants to continue serving because she feels she still has a worthwhile perspective to offer.
Nick Polumbus
Nick Polumbus
Ruth Harrison
Ruth Harrison
Karla West
Karla West
Police calls: String of vehicle break-ins reported
Being Earnest
My wife, myself and friends attended the current Whitefish Theatre Company production of “The Importance of Being Earnest.”
Boys tennis picks up win at Hamilton
The pieces are starting to fall into place for Whitefish’s boys tennis team after playing three duals in as many days last week.
Support our school district
As President of the Whitefish Community Foundation, I am extremely proud of the relationship that the Foundation has with our school district.
WEST shown in Bigfork
The Bigfork Community Players present “West,” April 12-14 and 19-21 at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.
Fishing guide shares 'Flathead Lake monster' story on national tv show
For over 100 years people have claimed to see the Flathead Lake monster, which some say is a monster-sized fish that lurks in the depths of Flathead Lake.
Elusive animals targeted in winter carnivore study
Imagine tracking rare and elusive carnivore in winter. That’s what a group of three wildlife biologists and four interns were doing the first three months of this winter, hoping to find carnivores like lynx, wolverines and fisher in the 1.5-million-acre southwest portion of the Crown of the Continent ecosystem.
Gun control demagogy
Demagogues offend us because they try to bypass our rational faculty with appeals to gut emotion. That pretty well sums up what gun controllers have done since the Newtown tragedy.
More on wolves
In response to the Mr. Peck letter, I say enough is enough. These folks, like Mr. Peck and all the rest of his wolf lovers, have never once bought a hunting license or anything else that has produced the game animal levels through professional management.
Blacktail Ski Area finishes record season
It’s 15 years and counting for Blacktail Mountain Ski Area and general manager Steve Spencer isn’t looking back.
Julie Shumpert
Julie Dawn Shumpert, 57, of Coram, passed away April 13, 2013. “The Great Spirit came to take his child home with him.”
Groups seek cooperative effort for Blacktail Mountain trail systems
Although funding is tied up in federal budget cuts, the U.S. Forest Service is proceeding with plans to add new motorized and non-motorized trails in the Blacktail Island Unit west of Lakeside.
Investing in Bigfork: couple pursues dream of smalltown life
It was Christmas 2011 when Renny Johnson and his family had their “aha” moment. Johnson and his wife, Sarah, had been working the corporate life for years in places like Chicago and San Francisco when they finally decided they’d had enough. They had spent vacation time the last 17 years in Bigfork with Johnson’s parents, Ray and Kathy, who own a horse ranch here.
Seeing the Light: new lights installed in Bigfork
The Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork has seen the light.
Eagle scout creates new sign for Bigfork High School
An eagle that soared over Bigfork High School last week could have signified approval of Keegan Driver’s Eagle Scout project.
Building a Dream: Community Crossroads memorial garden
Kelly Ware looks out over the bare, sandy soil behind Crossroads Christian Church and sees a vision of a lovely garden of fruit and berry trees.
Ground ZERO: contamination larger than expected in Somers
A groundwater remedy at the former Burlington Northern tie plant in Somers is “not even close,” Diana Hammer, the Environmental Protection Agency’s project manager for Somers, said last week.
Flathead Lake Lodge finds a new way to feed its critters
The days of bucking hay bales may be over at Flathead Lake Lodge.
Being prepared is topic of April 18 talk
Wayne Loffler, Bigfork Fire Chief will talk about 72-hour emergency kits April 18 at 7 p.m. at the Bigfork Elementary School Cafeteria.
Lucille Helton
Lucille Helton, 98, died April 13, 2013, in Columbia Falls.
Joint C-Falls, Whitefish swim team approved
A joint swim team for Whitefish and Columbia Falls high schools finally has local approval.
Kats go 1-2 on the week
The Columbia Falls softball team went 1-2 on the week, but the losses were games they could have just as easily won with another hit or two.
Tennis teams battle foul weather at season's start
The weather was decidedly unfriendly last week, with rain, wind and snow, but the Columbia Falls tennis teams still got some action in.
Strong performances at Kalispell, Missoula
The weather was lousy, but the performances improved. The Wildcats had some good showings at the Flathead Time Trials in a non-scoring meet on April 9 and the Missoula Invitation April 13.
Sports news
Swim team
Link's gun was a semi-automatic
I really enjoyed G. George Ostrom’s recent column “Recalling the death of Slim Link.” I wrote two different versions of this same story back in 1988. The scariest version was Matt Brill’s.
The loathsome tabloid caper
Editor: The following column ran in the Jan. 4, 2007, Hungry Horse News.
Child prostitution charges dismissed
Felony charges have been dismissed all around in the case of a mother accused of letting a Columbia Falls man have sex with her 13-year-old daughter in exchange for drugs.
Spring break fishing adventures on home waters
In late February, my brother from Iowa sent me a video of a fishing show featuring spring walleye fishing on the Rainy River. The Rainy River connects Rainy Lake and Lake of the Woods on the Minnesota-Ontario border.
Wolf numbers: Still higher than recovery goals
Wolf pack numbers were up but the number of gray wolves were down across the Rocky Mountain west in 2012, according to an annual report last week released by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
Outdoor news
Park history
Park gearing up for Sun Road corridor study
Glacier National Park soon will begin public scoping on how best to manage the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor in the coming years, interim superintendent Kym Hall said last week.
Animals central to quilter's themes
When Gloria Day was a young girl, she wasn’t allowed to ride the horses on the family spread in Washington. Her parents said they were too dangerous. But Day taught herself to ride when her parents went to town and she had the place to herself.
Lawsuit filed against Vets Home, police
Family claims veteran died as a result of being Tased by police
School news
Election canceled
Community news
Co-op election
The colorful life of a park ranger
One night, former Glacier National Park ranger Charlie Logan got a phone call. There’d been a report of a man run over by a train not far from the Walton Ranger Station where Logan lived at the time.
Tuesday, April 16
Green energy
I am writing this letter in response to an e-mail sent out April 9 by Sen. Max Baucus regarding his agenda for creating jobs in Montana.
Wolf concerns
Congratulations Brian Peck for your astute observations in the April 10 issue of the Hungry Horse News about the lack of forethought of the Montana Legislature.
Our food is safer than ever
Summertime is almost upon us. For most Americans, the warmer weather brings picnics in the park, BBQs and grilling out with family and friends. It also brings the increased chance for foodborne illness to occur if safe food preparation and handling is not given full attention.
Independent high school holds restaurant nights
Reservations required by April 19
Students at Whitefish Independent High School will once again transform the school into a restaurant next week when The Kiwi Kabana opens for two nights.
Obama speaks about the Boston bombings
The following statement about the bombings in Boston were made by President Barack Obama on April 16, 2013.
County landfill by the numbers
There was some good news in the Flathead County Solid Waste District’s report for fiscal year 2012 — the amount of waste hauled to the landfill was down, recycling costs were improving thanks to commodity prices, and more landfill gas was being burned to generate electrical power.
Work targets aquatic invaders
While funding sources for a bill revising aquatic invasive species management are sorted out in the Montana Legislature, other efforts are underway to control the spread of zebra mussels and other nonnative species in Montana waters.
Recognizing America's pioneering athlete
Jackie Robinson’s birthday earlier this week reminds us of a cool fall evening — Aug. 28, 1945, when the 26-year-old former Army lieutenant who had been court marshaled for refusing orders to sit in the back of an Army bus, walked to 215 Sukeforth Street in Brooklyn, the office of the general manager of the Brooklyn Dodgers baseball team, Mr. Branch Rickey.
Sunday, April 14
William Engle
William “Bill” LaPierre Engle, 74 of Kalispell, died Dec. 29, 2012, surrounded by family at the home of his daughter near Gillette, Wyo.
Shannon Hallas
Shannon Paige Hallas, 37, of Columbia Falls, left her loved ones on April 9, 2013 to find a better challenge.
Questions about the future of stream access
Is stream access doomed? That is the question sportsmen are whispering across Big Sky Country as a special interest group pushes a bridge access case it lost through the state appellate court.
Turkey hunter runs into grizzly near hatchery
A turkey hunter ran into a grizzly bear adult and two grizzly yearlings near the Creston National Fish Hatchery on Saturday morning, April 13.
Saturday, April 13
Mother recalls events at Sandy Hook
The following remarks were made by Francine Wheeler at the White House on April 13 as part of President Barack Obama’s weekly address.
Friday, April 12
Harold Strey
Harold F. Strey, 95, died April 10, 2013, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Thursday, April 11
Daines speaks against Senate gun regulations
The following comments were made April 11, 2013, by Rep. Steve Daines on gun ownership regulations proposed in the U.S. Senate
Edna Minehan
Edna F. Minehan, 83, passed away peacefully at home in Columbia Falls on April 9, 2013, under the hospice care of her daughter Kathy Wright. A survivor of both breast cancer and lymphoma, she lost her battle with leukemia.
Wednesday, April 10
Major highway reconstruction project begins
An extensive reconstruction project on U.S. 93 West between Lupfer and Karrow Avenue is currently underway. Minor traffic impacts likely will begin Monday morning, April 15.
Connolly wins national boardercross race
Local snowboarder Baylan Connolly took first place in the 18-22 age group boardercross races at the USASA National Championships last week at Copper Mountain in Colorado.
Resort sets record for skier visits
A blast of sideways snow with a touch of sun. Powder up top and corn snow down low. It’s only fitting that the season’s final weekend of skiing at Whitefish Mountain Resort was defined by a mixed bag of conditions.
FVCC hosts logger sports competition
Flathead Valley Community College’s national champion logger sports team will host its annual Stumpjumper Days home competition at the college’s Logger Sports Arena on Saturday, April 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.
Howard Berry
Howard A. “ Howie” Berry passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, March 24.
Suby drivers unite
As a proud Subaru owner for the past 12 years, I would like to publicly ask other Labrador-retriever-co-piloting, ski-and-bike-rack-toting, “Who’s-your-farmer?”-bumper-stickering drivers of this beloved vehicle to form a united front.
Gerald Wolfe
Gerald Wolfe passed away Saturday, April 6 at the Montana Veteran’s Home in Columbia Falls.
Memorial scholarship honors former teacher
Liz Nelson is remembered as “always upbeat, loving and laughing.”
Rhodes-Maldonado and Miclette engaged
Tia Rhodes-Maldonado, of Whitefish, and Douglas Miclette, of Baltic, Conn., announce their April, 2013 engagement.
A wild day in the Senate
Being part of Montana history in the Senate certainly wasn’t on my radar screen when running for office a year ago.
Police calls: Toddler escapes through window
Welcome to Clutterville
I’m writing to urge the Whitefish City Council members not to revise the Whitefish sign code, and especially NOT to empower a group of self-interested business owners to have any special review powers or in any way pretend to speak for the good folks of Whitefish as a whole.
WHS Booster Auction set for April 19
Whitefish High School Booster Club’s annual spring auction is set for Friday, April 19 at 6 p.m. at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake.
James Henry Fulkerson
James Henry Fulkerson , 84, passed away peacefully at home with his loving family at his side on April 3, after a short, but courageous battle with cancer.
Cheers goes to Kathy Cozad
Kathy Cozad gives of her time and talent by volunteering with many Whitefish organizations.
Mannequin reignites sign code talks
A sign-waving, motorized mannequin at the Don K car dealership appears to have sparked a broader discussion about Whitefish’s sign code and the desire for a planning study of the U.S. 93 South corridor.
Flathead state's 7th most healthy county
Flathead County is the seventh healthiest county in Montana according to a recently released study that looks at health factors, access to clinical care and other social and economic factors.
The case against Medicaid expansion
The proponents of Medicaid expansion are unabashedly brandishing their rhetoric-based talking points claiming the measure would do everything from creating thousands of jobs to bringing revenue to our state.
Obama speaks about his budget proposal
The following remarks about the fiscal year 2014 budget were made in the White House Rose Garden on April 10, 2013.
The absurdity of universal background checks
Those who favor “universal” background checks on gun buyers make some ridiculous arguments. For example, opponents correctly point out that gun buyers with criminal intent will always find channels that require no background check. Gunrunning is among the oldest professions, and the black market will always be with us. Thus the promise of universal background checks — even if that were a legitimate government activity — is a fraud, because universality can’t possibly be achieved.
Lighting the way in Bigfork: Project aims to cut down on light pollution
The Community Foundation for a Better Bigfork has “seen the light” and recenty begun implementing some light pollution controls downtown.
Bigfork tennis beats Ronan
The Bigfork High School girls tennis team is off to a good start.
Leonard Holcomb
Leonard M. “Bud” Holcomb, 89, passed away April 2, 2013, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Neil Dodge
Neil Joseph Dodge, 81, died April 5, 2013, at home with his wife Carol by his side.
Phyllis Darling
Phyllis Taylor Darling, 81, passed away March 18, 2013, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Bruce Stewart
Bruce I. Stewart passed away April 4, 2013, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home of natural causes.
George Marsh
George R. Marsh, 72, of Kalispell, passed away at his home on March 29, 2013.
Budget talk in the North Fork
National news doesn’t normally have more than conversational impact on the North Fork. We follow events and vote even though we know there will be little change here, at least in the short term.
Concrete block town hall project
Completion of the new Columbia Falls concrete block town hall at the top of Nucleus Avenue hill was main topic in January 1948.
Making and breaking laws
Editor: The following column was run in the June 30, 2005, Hungry Horse News.
Senior thanks
The North Valley Senior Center would like to take this opportunity to thank all the businesses in our hometown. They have generously supported the North Valley Senior Center through gift card donations to be used in our basket raffles.
Twins rename annual memorial tournament
The Glacier Twins Legion baseball program has decided to rename its summer tournament the Glacier Twins Memorial Tournament.
Practical tips for backcountry first aid
Say you’ve cut yourself badly in the backcountry. The wound is bleeding profusely and you don’t have any bandages. The best place to start is probably a shirt — and not just by tearing off a sleeve. If one cuts the shirt in a circular motion from the bottom, you get foot after foot of bandage, with little work.
Two down-to-earth fly fishing books reviewed
Two good fly fishing books are reviewed this week. The first covers everything a beginner needs to know to start fly fishing, and the second covers the best fly fishing rivers in Montana.
Outdoor news
Wilderness talks
Park hiker to raise funds, awareness for diabetes
When most folks go for a hike in Glacier National Park, they take along water, a lunch and extra clothes in case the weather takes a turn.
EPA to begin CFAC investigation
The Environmental Protection Agency assured Sen. Jon Tester in a March 26 letter that the federal agency will conduct a Superfund site assessment of the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. smelter site.
CPA pleads guilty in RBM Lumber case
A 66-year-old Kalispell man pleaded guilty in federal court last week to wire fraud in a case involving RBM Lumber Co.
Community news
After hours
Girls basketball coaches asked to resign
Coaches, players and parents came to the defense of Whitefish High School girls basketball coach Sean Duff at Tuesday’s school board meeting as he and his staff battled to keep their jobs.
Tuesday, April 9
Margaret Nash
Margaret Ann “Sereday” Nash, 89, died at her home in Kalispell on April 6, 2013. She was born Aug. 19, 1923, in Wayne, between Great Falls and Belt, at her grandparent’s home to John Sereday and Suzie “Mital” Sereday.
Diane Christman
Diane Elaine Stone Christman died peacefully at home in Delhi, La., surrounded by her family on March 3, 2013, following a lengthy illness. She was 61 years of age. She was born on June16, 1951.
Stormy weather in the Montana Senate
The Montana Legislature has finished 73 days out of the 90-day session. After an Easter break with good weather outside, there was a stormy day in the Senate last Friday. The minority in the Senate did not like two bills that they knew would pass third reading that day. These two bills were legislative referendum bills that needed to be passed that day to meet a transmittal deadline.
Bullock signs marijuana impairment bill
Gov. Steve Bullock signed a bill into law on April 5 that establishes a standard for tetrahydrocannabinol impairment that is universal for all drivers.
Coal mining raises concerns for world-class river
A host of environmental groups in Canada have raised concerns about pollution from coal mines in the Elk River drainage. The Elk River is a coveted westslope cutthroat and bull trout fishery that joins the Kootenay River, forming Lake Koocanusa above the Libby Dam.
Class of 1983 reunion
Organizers for the Columbia Falls Class of 1983’s 30th class reunion are looking for class members whose addresses are unknown. Anyone who knows how to contact anyone on this list is asked to e-mail coko444@yahoo.com. The missing class members are Michele Archie, Jeff Baumgartner, Mike Black, Susan Chilcote, Mike Luepkes, Codi Christopherson, Mike Counsell, Rich Darling, John Dettwiler, Byron Devitt, Dan Gehloff, Ann Greenshield, Sheila Hammons, Leah Jerome, Rollene Johnson, Niles Jones, Keith King, Kevin Knudson, Aaron Kruse, James Lane, Linda Lucky, Pat Martin, Paul Menard, Rich Meyer, Tom Miller, Tricia Monfils, Pat Nichols, Alan Orndorff, Lamar Orndorff, Terri O’Neil, Deanna Paulus, Dan Pettit, Sharon Port, Jeff Salandi, Kelly Stacy, Brian Stanton, Tim Stewart and Dan Westphal.
Monday, April 8
President Obama speaks in Connecticut about guns
The following remarks were made by President Barack Obama at the University of Hartford on April 8, 2013.
Swing For Glacier fundraiser tickets available
The 10th annual Swing For Glacier fundraiser for Glacier National Park’s three nonprofit partners, Glacier Institute, Glacier National Park Associates and Glacier National Park Conservancy, will take place at the Belton Chalet and Lake McDonald Lodge on Friday, May 24, from 4-10 p.m.
Park plowing continues as weather turns cold
Glacier National Park snowplow crews have hit the Going-to-the-Sun Road while other roads have been melting out.
The coal export opportunity for Montana
As the coal debate heats up on the West Coast, our state is left hoping and waiting for the approval of five proposed coal export terminals in the Pacific Northwest. Our state economy is closely connected with the coal industry — keenly feeling the ups and downs of this industry. And right now, the proposed Pacific Northwest terminals will aide in supplying our state a new export market for sustained, long-term economic growth.
Wolves and unintended consequences
Recently, the Montana Legislature, in its seemingly infinite lack of wisdom, passed House Bill 73, a measure to allow more people to kill more wolves more easily, cheaply, and in more places — even right up to the doorsteps of Yellowstone and Glacier national parks.
School news
Grad party
Bullying advice
I am a Columbia Falls Junior High student. I am worried about how much bullying has happened. Have you been bullied in the past? If not, think about kids who have been bullied. Bullies themselves? So un-predictable.
Saturday, April 6
Annual Bob Marshall meeting April 13
The annual Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex public meeting will take place at the Hungry Horse Ranger Station, in Hungry Horse, on Saturday, April 13, starting at 10 a.m.
History in the making in Montana Senate chambers
Being part of Montana history in the Senate certainly wasn’t on my radar screen when running for office a year ago.
Bullock calls Senate actions 'disappointing'
The following statement was made by Gov. Steve Bullock at the Montana State Capitol on April 5:
Friday, April 5
Early spring on the prairie
Quiet early spring days on the prairie are a rare, elusive beauty. Probably everyone has his, or her, favorite visual nature spot. For many, it’s the mountains or the seashore, areas that offer sharp contrasts, like jagged peaks reaching up to the sky or land meeting water.
Sun Road bikers will find ice in places
Plow crews have hit the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park while other roads have been melting out after a week of warm weather.
Man dies trying to put out runaway fire
A 66-year-old Columbia Falls man died of an apparent heart attack while trying to put out a fire that had gotten out of control April 2 and run into a Bonneville Power Administration power line easement across Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. property.
Bill aimed at copper thieves gets support
A bill that would hold copper thieves responsible for damages caused by the removal of wire and other nonferrous metal equipment has passed both chambers in the Montana Legislature with overwhelming support.
Thursday, April 4
Carnivore study 'like finding needles in a haystack'
Imagine tracking rare and elusive carnivore in winter.
FVCC winning team hosts logger sports meet
Flathead Valley Community College’s national champion logger sports team will host its annual Stumpjumper Days home competition at the college’s Logger Sports Arena on Saturday, April 20, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public.
Brewery bill tabled but dispute isn't over
The battle brewing between bars and breweries was temporarily put to rest when House Bill 616 was tabled by the House Business and Labor Committee on April 3.
Wednesday, April 3
Group works on plan to deal with septic pollution in lake
The City of Whitefish’s wastewater committee is reaching out for public input while it continues to draft a management plan for how to deal with septic pollution in Whitefish Lake.
FWP: Bears are awake, looking for food
Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials warn residents that bears are already
Gym remodel work ramps up
Several items have been checked off the to-do list for the Whitefish High School gymnasium remodel project even before work kicked into high gear this week during spring break.
Annie Lea Mack
Annie Lea (Breckenridge) Mack, 93, passed away March 25 at Immanuel Lutheran Care Center in Kalispell after a long and valiant battle with Alzheimer’s. She was born in Seattle on Sept. 21, 1919 to Jeff and Rinda Anna Breckenridge, and was the youngest of nine children — four boys and five girls.
Romantic comedy to be filmed in town
Whitefish will be transformed into a movie set later this month as filming begins for the independent romantic comedy “The Thin Line.”
Resort tax collections up 19 percent in January
Revenue from the city’s 2 percent resort tax in January was up nearly 19 percent compared to last year. Collections for the month were $119,889, which is an $18,863 increase.
Camp and Hurtt married
Belinda Camp and Shannon Hurtt, of Clarksville, Ark., were married March 8 in front of family and friends.
Softball team looks to hang with competition
Whitefish’s softball team went 0-3 in their opening week, but improvement was evident all over the diamond.
Timber sale proposed near Olney
Fuel reduction and timber harvest work is proposed to begin this summer on state trust land in the Stillwater State Forest near Olney.
Three candidates file for school board seats
Three candidates have filed to run for two trustee seats on the Whitefish School District Board.
Boiler purchase OK'd for WMS
The Whitefish School Board March 26 approved a bid of $74,000 to purchase new heating boilers for the middle school.
Police calls: Driver threatens couple with baseball bat
City leases vacant lot for parking
Commuters can expect a bit of relief from Whitefish’s downtown parking congestion as soon as this spring.
EPA agrees to look at CFAC plant
The following is a letter sent by Howard Cantor, the acting regional administrator for the Environmental Protection Agency, in Denver, to Sen. Jon Tester about his request to designate the Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. smelter plant as a Superfund site.
Annual Creston Auction pays for new building
In the last 47 years the Creston Auction has helped the small volunteer fire department do some big things.
Public reminded - bears are out
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials remind the public that bears are emerging from their densand it’s time to put away any attractants that might be outside.
President Obama addresses gun violence
The follow excerpts are from President Barack Obama’s recent remarks on reducing gun violence:
Mothers write police chiefs about gun violence
The following letter was written by the Montana Chapter of Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America. They were sent to police chiefs around the state.
Second life for Medicaid in legislature
A push by Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock to expand Medicaid coverage to about 70,000 Montanans faltered in the Montana House last week, but it was revived this week with a 26-24 favorable vote in the Montana Senate.
Movie night supports Canyon trail project
The Gateway to Glacier Trail organization will present a second showing of the award-winning documentary film “The Lookout” along with another Brian Bolster film, “Mercantile,” at the O’Shaughnessy, in Whitefish, on Friday, April 26, with doors opening at 6 p.m. and films starting at 7 p.m.
Donald Doane
Donald Doane passed away April 1, 2013 at the Montana Veterans Home.
Christian Evenson
Christian Evenson
Missing folks at the chalet
Attended a gathering at the Belton Chalet Friday morning where our new congressman, Steve Daines, announced he will carry legislation in the House of Representatives supporting the bill in the U.S. Senate sponsored by Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester. Purpose of the bill is to protect the North Fork watershed.
Recalling the death of Slim Link
Note: Following is a shortened version of a scary but true story I wrote for “Sports Afield” in March 1965. There are other versions. North Fork legend Ralph Thayer told me his version, and I also interviewed Chance Beebe’s aging widow. No one knows all the details. This came from what I was told by those involved.
Nicosia, Mundel, Osborne tops at C-Falls Invite
March dished up typical early spring weather at the Columbia Falls Invitational on March 28, with frequent showers, some sunshine and occasionally chilly winds.
Kats down Dogs in season opener
The Columbia Falls softball team rolled over Whitefish 12-1 in its season opener away March 28 against the Lady Bulldogs.
Little Guy wrestling champs
Ten Columbia Falls wrestlers were champions at the Western Montana Little Guy state wrestling tournament held at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on March 22-23. They included:
Glacier Twins season kick-off events
On April 14 the community is encouraged to help put up the multi-panel outfield fencing at the Glacier Twins baseball field at Memorial Park in Whitefish on Sunday, April 14, beginning at 9 a.m. Water, coffee and donuts will be available for volunteers.
Daines calls for protecting North Fork
Montana’s Republican Congressman Steve Daines threw his support behind the North Fork Watershed Protection Act last week. The move signaled a political shift in Montana — his support marks the first bipartisan land-use bill in Congress for more than 30 years.
Outdoor news
Wilderness talk
Budget cuts delaying Glacier Park superintendent hire
Federal budget sequestration is having an impact on the hiring process for a new superintendent for Glacier National Park.
Glacier Park campground dates trimmed
Glacier National Park released further details on impacts from the federal budget sequestration last week, as the Park works to absorb a $682,000 cut to its base operating budget.
Conservancy will help with Park plowing
Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road will be plowed on schedule this season, thanks to a pledge of funds from the Glacier National Park Conservancy, the private fundraising partner of the Park.
Flathead seventh in county health ranking
Flathead County came in seventh in a health ranking of counties in Montana that looked at smoking and drinking, access to health professionals, lost work days, education levels, household incomes, crime and many other factors.
Man charged with stealing parts from logging equipment
A 45-year-old Columbia Falls man faces felony counts of theft and criminal mischief after he was charged with stealing batteries and electrical wiring from logging equipment and trucks at the F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Co. timber mill west of Columbia Falls.
Community news
Chamber meeting
Junior high showcase
Think your password is safe? Think again.
Tuesday, April 2
Twins rename tournament
The Glacier Twins Legion baseball program has decided to rename its summer tournament as the Glacier Twins Memorial Tournament.
Ronald Allen
Ronald L. Allen “was called to Heaven” on March 31, 2013, in his Columbia Falls home, surrounded by his loving family.
LeeAnn Cottrell
LeeAnn Marie Cottrell, 42, of Hungry Horse, died March 19, 2013, in Hungry Horse.
GOP gives thumbs down to Medicaid expansion
A push by Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock to expand Medicaid coverage to about 70,000 Montanans faltered in the Montana House last week.
Monday, April 1
Reichner's Medicaid reform bill is dead
A Medicaid reform bill sponsored by Rep. Scott Reichner, R-Bigfork, never got off the ground.
