Ellington

Four candidates to run for three council seats

Four candidates have entered the race for three open seats on the Whitefish City Council in this year’s city election. Pamela Barberis formally filed this week, joining candidates Jennifer Frandsen, Life Noell and former Whitefish mayor Andy Feury.

Broadway stars headline ATP summer season

Alpine Theatre Project has announced the Broadway actors who will be performing in its summer season, “Broadway’s Best Week By Week,” and teaching in its Broadway master classes for local students.

Man falls to his death from closed Glacier Park trail

The hiker who fell to his death Wednesday afternoon while crossing a steep snow field on a closed trail in Glacier National Park has been identified as a 64-year-old Washington state man.

Park visitor dies in fall

WEST GLACIER, MONT. – The park visitor that died Wednesday, June 26, in Glacier National Park, has been identified as 64-year old Charles Fred Huseman from Packwood, Washington. Huseman died from bodily trauma sustained from a fall in the Rim Rock area, about a mile west of Logan Pass.   

10 reasons why Congress must pass a food, farm and jobs bill

The following is a weekly message by Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack delivered June 28.

Man dies after falling from closed Highline Trail

A 64-year old man from Washington state died June 26 from a fall along the Going-to-the-Sun Road near the Rimrocks area, about a mile west of Logan Pass.

Habitat work planned for Coal Creek

Sixty years ago, a Going-to-the-Sun Road tragedy

Canyon campground proposes expansion for 56 more RV units

Judge says Big Mountain Jesus can stay

The famed Jesus statue on Big Mountain can remain where it is — at least for now — thanks to a ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Dana Christensen that was announced on Monday.

Wind turbine put on hold

Sandy Clare withdrew her application for a special use permit for a 77-foot, 9-inch wind turbine after hearing opposition and questions from Bigfork residents at the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee on Thursday. Clare said she wants to have a wind study conducted for the site and will decide in a year if she wants to proceed.

Rep. Daines not happy with immigration bill

The following statement on passage of the Senate immigration bill was made by Rep. Steve Daines on June 27.

President speaks on Senate immigration bill

The following statement on the Senate passage of immigration reform was made by President Barack Obama on June 27.

Big Brother, not Snowden and Greenwald, is the story

“Instead of being adversaries to government power … [the media of Washington, D.C., are] … servants to it and mouthpieces for it.”

Bigfork gearing up for the Fourth

Organizers are getting ready for Bigfork’s July 4 celebration.

Glacier All-Stars 15U top Kalispell in Glacier Invite title game

The Glacier All-Stars 15U baseball team used their big bats to win a pair of tournaments this month.

Whitefish River cleanup comes to an end

The Whitefish River should soon be free of the cleanup crews that have intermittently closed down the waterway and pedestrian path along the river for the last five years.

Impact of big business on our food

I am a mom with two young children living in Columbia Falls. I, like most moms, work hard to make good choices about the food I feed my family. But I am growing increasingly angry that corporate food giants are refusing to label just what is in the foods they are marketing to all of us, and rather heavily to children.

Whitefish hosts wooden boat show this weekend

Dozens of antique wooden boats will parade the shore of Whitefish Lake this Friday evening as a kick-off to the Whitefish Woody Weekend II classic boat show. Organizers hope the event is a step in resurrecting Whitefish’s long-forgotten love affair with boating.

Former mayor enters city council election

Two more candidates have thrown their names into the mix for this year’s Whitefish City Council election.

Hotel plans at Block 46 pushed back

An application for a proposed three-story hotel was pulled from last week’s City-County Planning Board agenda at the request of the developer.

WHS project receives major donation for athletic facilities

The Iron Horse Foundation has committed $1 million to the Whitefish High School construction project to create a state-of-the-art athletic training facility.

Police calls: Skateboarder fends off vicious dog

Cheers goes to Barbara Mansfield

Barbara Mansfield, a guidance councilor at Whitefish High School, was born in Glasgow. When she was four her family moved to Havre where she attended grade and high school and graduated from Montana State University-Northern with a degree in education.

Jackson “Jack” Allen Gregg

Jackson “Jack” Allen Gregg passed away peacefully in his home in Billings on Sunday, June 16, 2013 at the age of 89.

Landslide stymies plat extension

Two years ago a massive landslide on Lookout Ridge scratched a 1,000 foot scar into the hillside near Big Mountain. Mature trees were snapped like twigs, and tons of dirt and debris were left piled across an access road to the undeveloped subdivision.

Protecting the North Fork

I would like to thank Rep. Steve Daines for his support of the North Fork Watershed Protection Act. As a Flathead Valley resident, I am encouraged by his bipartisan support of a bill that protects wildlife and our outdoor oriented way of life. This shows me that Daines is committed to acting in the best interest of Montanans.

Jack G. Teeples

Jack G. Teeples is listening to the music in heaven, fully hearing, and dancing with his savior Jesus Christ. Jack died peacefully June 20, 2013, with his family beside him, in God’s grace.

Bigfork actor starting in new film about Civil War

“It was the best acting experience I’ve ever had.”

Tribes release draft on Flathead Lake fisheries plan

It’s been over 12 years in the making, and now a draft environmental impact study is ready for the public.

Meeting Thursday at 4 p.m. on windmill proposal in Bigfork

By CALEB M. SOPTELEAN

Stolen base helps Twins edge Lakers

The Glacier Twins A team has found their groove midway though the American Legion baseball season thanks to sharp fielding, solid hitting and smart base running.

Judge rules Big Mountain Jesus statue can stay

U.S. District Court Judge Dana Christensen, in Missoula, ruled June 24 in favor of allowing a statue of Jesus to remain where it is on government land on the side of Big Mountain.

Obama addresses ruling on gay marriage

The following remarks were made by President Barack Obama after the U.S. Supreme Court issued its ruling June 26, 2013, on the Defense of Marriage Act.

Glacier Twins find a groove

C-Falls swim team takes 2nd at home meet

A wild fish journey: From the Bob to the hatchery and back

Blackfeet history lesson given at centennial

Bear grass bonanza this year in Glacier, forests

Moose Crossing subdivision headed for sheriff's sale

Fourth of July events

Quilts for Texas

Deal aims to protect city water supply

More than 3,000 acres of working forestland in Haskill Basin that is the source for most of Whitefish’s water supply could be permanently protected though a proposed deal between The Trust for Public Land and F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Company.

Supreme Court's bison decision is a win for landowners

A recent decision by the Montana Supreme Court settled an objection brought by landowners and multiple-use groups against Montana Fish, Wildlife and Park’s transfer last year of bison from a government facility to the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.

Obama talks about climate change

The following remarks about climate change were made by President Barack Obama at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., on une 25, 2013.

Pacific Northwest already ahead of climate plan

What President Barack Obama proposes in his new climate action plan is what’s already happening in the Pacific Northwest through the Northwest Power and Conservation Council’s Northwest Power Plan.

Obama addresses ruling on Voting Rights Act

The following statement on the Supreme Court ruling in the case Shelby County v. Holder was made by President Barack Obama on June 25.

Glacier All-Stars playing well

The Glacier All-Stars 15U baseball team used their big bats to win a pair of tournaments in June.

Tree memorial established for crash victim

Mechanical problems strands C-Falls biker on Big Mtn.

A 48-year-old Columbia Falls man spent the night at a survival cabin on the back side of Big Mountain after his motorized bicycle had mechanical problems and a flat tire.

Health insurance goes to the marketplace this fall

This fall, Montanans will be able to shop for health insurance in an open marketplace and, depending on their income, they could get significant government help on their premiums.

Plans call for renovating historic county jail

Flathead County’s future building plans include another historical restoration project similar to work recently completed at the old courthouse building in downtown Kalispell.

C-Falls man sentenced for DUI No. 4

A 53-year-old Columbia Falls man was sentenced May 16 on felony DUI charge after he pleaded guilty in Flathead County District Court.

C-Falls man faces DUI No. 4 charge

A 31-year-old Columbia Falls man has pleaded not guilty to felony DUI in Flathead County District Court. If convicted, Sean Jorgenson faces 13 months with the Montana Department of Corrections followed by a five-year consecutive but suspended prison sentence and a $1,000 to $10,000 fine.

On the lookout for Crane Mtn. trail

With no little effort, I experienced the Crane Mountain Lookout on Sunday.

Rollins boxer picks up a win after 'devastating knockout'

Rollins boxer Jesse Uhde made a triumphant return to the boxing ring recently after getting knocked out in November.

Commissioners OK pay raise for elected officials

A 3 percent cost-of-living pay raise for elected county officials was approved by the Flathead County Commissioners on June 20, but they delayed a decision on cost-of-living raises for other county employees.

Browning men sentenced in wildlife case

Three Browning men were each sentenced to three years probation last week after they pleaded guilty to violating the Lacey Act for illegally selling tribal wildlife and for theft from a tribal government receiving federal funding.

Welcome to Camelot: the laughs at Bigfork Summer Playhouse

In the battle between England and France, comedy may be the best weapon.

Women's outdoor workshops coming up

            Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks' popular Becoming an Outdoors-Woman Program (BOW) is hosting two workshops in western Montana this summer.

Crown Guitar Celebration moved to Lutheran Church

Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation kicks off the Season

Conservation easement lining up for Stoltze land

An agreement between the Trust for Public Land and F.H. Stoltze Land & Lumber Co. was announced last week that could protect 3,000 acres of forest land in the Haskill Basin for the benefit of water, wildlife and recreation while allowing sustainable forest management activities to continue.

Fourth of July travel may be down this year

AAA forecasts 40.8 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more from home for the Fourth of July holiday this year, a slight decrease from the 41.1 million who traveled last year. But this year’s numbers show a slowly recovering economy.

Farm Bureau statement on House defeat of farm bill

The American Farm Bureau Federation is highly disappointed the House did not complete work on the 2013 farm bill, the Federal Agriculture Reform and Risk Management Act of 2013. It was a balanced bill that would have provided much needed risk management tools and a viable economic safety net for America’s farmers and ranchers

Council election picks up another candidate

Another candidate has thrown their name into the mix for this year’s Whitefish City Council election.

Plea agreement in 'magic trick' assault case

A May 28 plea agreement might keep a 30-year-old Coram man facing a felony assault charge out of prison.

Logan Pass opens

Glacier National Park officials announced that all 50 miles of the Going-to-the-Sun Road are open to motor vehicles. The road opened at 8:30 a.m. Friday, June 21. Forecasts call for 40 mph wind gusts and even more snow in the Park at the higher elevations as a spate of rough weather has come to Northwest Montana this week..

Baby equipment rentals fits a need in the Flathead

A Columbia Falls woman has started a niche business that fits in well with the Flathead’s successful tourism economy.

Devil Creek Campground goes to hell

At mile marker 190 on U.S. 2 is the Devil Creek Campground, or at least what is left of it. In the name of beetle kill/fire management, the U.S. Forest Service has seen fit to ruin what was the nicest campground around.

North Fork bill clears Senate hurdle

The North Fork Watershed Protection Act took another step to becoming law last week. Sen. Max Baucus said the bill, which bans future energy leases on federal lands in the North Fork and Middle Fork of the Flathead River drainages, was unanimously endorsed by the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee. Getting a bill out of committee is one of the first steps to getting it passed.

Mechanical problems strands C-Falls biker on Big Mtn.

A 48-year-old Columbia Falls man spent the night at a survival cabin on the back side of Big Mountain after his motorized bicycle had mechanical problems and a flat tire.

GOP group looks to stop 'dark money'

A Martin City woman is one of several Republicans across Montana leading a drive for a ballot initiative to expose “dark money” in elections.

Governor vetoes CSKT water compact bill

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock vetoed a bill aimed at re-negotiating a draft water rights compact between the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, and the state and federal governments.

Police calls: Canadian left naked, shoeless and beat up

Former Bulldog hired as athletic director

Former Bulldog standout athlete Aric Harris has been tapped as the new activity director at Whitefish High School. The school board unanimously approved the hire at their June 11 meeting.

Scout leads way at Smith Fields

I enjoyed reading the article about dedicating the new soccer field to the late Gary Elliot. It is a very appropriate recognition of his efforts and support of the community.  

Dealership bullish on economy

The Don K car dealership broke ground last week on a 14,000 square foot expansion that community leaders are calling a beacon of an improving local economy.

2013 Bulldog football schedule revealed

Kickoff to the Whitefish High School football season is still months away, but a sneak peek at the 2013 schedule reveals an exciting lineup of gridiron action.

Public works budget deals with Central slump, Birch Point crossing

Whitefish City Councilors reviewed budget documents for the municipal court, public works and tax increment finance funds at a June 10 work session. The meeting marked the second review of the city’s $36.56 million preliminary budget for fiscal year 2014.

Revival of the Summer Games

It’s been 32 years since the Whitefish Summer Games made its debut. This year, the fun-filled sporting weekend could make a return.

Committee takes first step in City Hall design process

The first step toward a design for the new City Hall was taken June 12 when the Whitefish future city hall steering committee gave its OK to a request for qualifications document.

NPS veteran to lead Glacier

Jeff Mow, a 25-year veteran of the National Park Service, has been named superintendent of Glacier National Park.

Senate bill means additional funding for school district

The passage of Senate Bill 175 is expected to bring some relief to the Whitefish School District budgets.

Bulldog athletics need your support

We graduated the last of our four recently. In that bittersweet moment, 25 years of watching them deal with competing, winning, losing and growing all the while flashed by.

Flathead Lake Biological Station dedication June 21

The faculty and staff at the University of Montana’s Flathead Lake Biological Station will celebrate the renovation and rededication of the site’s Elrod Building from 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, June 21. The event is free and open to the public.

Behind the Scenes: the artists behind the scenes at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse

BY DAVID REESE

Summer School: Swan River School starts first summer session

By CALEB M. SOPTELEAN

Contract talks stall work on school calendar year

BY CALEB M. SOPTELEAN

Fishing Without Barriers celebrates 20th anniversary

By DAVID REESE

C-Falls swimmers take second

The Columbia Falls Swim Team took second place at the Plains Invitational last week.

Nork Fork wilderness debated

Last fall, I wrote about the formation of a group which named itself the Whitefish Range Partnership. Their goal was, and is, to write a draft Forest Plan for the Whitefish Range to present to the Flathead National Forest as they begin the process of writing a new plan for the entire Flathead National Forest.

Facts and rumors on Baby Boomers

Big national news lately is latest statistic about Baby Boomers. The U.S. Census Bureau reports 10,000 of them are retiring each week in the U.S. This situation has been building for 17 years, since the first Boomers began reaching age 50.

Sequestration didn't close Flathead Forest campgrounds

While the federal government warned that this year’s budget sequestration would result in campground closures in national forests, that didn’t happen in the Flathead.

FWP director addresses statewide issues

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks director Jeff Hagener recently gave updates to members of the Region 1 Citizens Advisory Committee.

Agents uncover two meth labs in C-Falls area

A Columbia Falls couple face up to 40 years in prison and a $25,000 fine after they were charged with operation of a clandestine methamphetamine laboratory.

C-Falls camper trailer destroyed in fire

A camper trailer parked behind a home in Columbia Falls was gutted by an early morning fire June 11.

Planning board OKs new zoning for U.S. 2

The Columbia Falls City-County Planning Board voted 6-1 last week to approve a new CB-3 limited business zoning district for the south side of U.S. 2 from Oh’s Body Shop to the Teakettle Fishing Access Site.

Community news

FVCC meeting

Kayli Wagoner

Kayli Mercedes Wagoner, 17, of Columbia Falls, passed away June 7, 2013, in Kalispell.

At Big Creek, the sun is always welcome

The sun is shining and at Glacier Institute’s Big Creek Educational Center, they’re making power without burning fuel. Through a $20,000 grant from Tom’s of Maine, the center now gets most of its electrical needs from a new solar power system.

Solicitor may be thrown to the curb

A solicitor from Kalispell who employs at-risk youth is in jeopardy of losing his business license in Whitefish after numerous residents complained about aggressive sales tactics.

Tester's Constitutional Amendment says corporations are not 'people'

Sen. Jon Tester introduced a Constitutional Amendment on June 18 clarifying that corporations are not “people” and restoring the right of Congress to limit corporate influence in elections.

Motives aside, the NSA should not spy on us

You need not suspect the motives of those responsible for NSA surveillance to detest what they are doing. In fact, we may have more to fear from spies acting out of patriotic zeal than those acting out of power lust or economic interest: Zealots are more likely to eschew restraints that might compromise their righteous cause.

Martel sets new track record for Hobby Stocks

Dustin Martel set a new Montana Raceway Park record in qualifying for Hobby Stocks on June 15 with a fast time of 14.788 seconds. He was the lone driver to break 15 seconds.

Mark Hindahl

Mark “Doc” Erwin Hindahl, 63, of rural Havana, Ill., passed away June 13, 2013, at his home.

Concerned about GMO foods

I am a mom with two young children living in Columbia Falls. I, like most moms, work hard to make good choices about the food I feed my family. But I am growing increasingly angry that corporate food giants are refusing to label just what is in the foods they are marketing to all of us, and rather heavily to children.

Speed, seat belt factors in fatal wreck

A West Glacier woman killed in a rollover accident June 5 was traveling too fast and wasn’t wearing her seat belt, according to a Montana Highway Patrol investigation.

Sun Road corridor meeting slated

Glacier National Park wants to hear from the public on how best to manage the Going-to-the-Sun Road corridor now that construction is nearing an end.

Sex offender's sentence revoked for second time

A Kalispell man was sentenced to 15 years in prison, all suspended, after his 2003 sentence for sexual assault was revoked for the second time.

Sports news

Summit Classic race

Outdoor news

Climate change talk

School news

MSU grads

Slower growth forecasted in future decades

The Montana Department of Commerce’s Census and Economic Information Center recently released annual population projections for each of Montana’s 56 counties through 2060.

Thanks for the baseball

I would like to thank the coaches and board members from the Columbia Falls Baseball Association for a great baseball season. I don’t know all the names of the coaches and board members, but a special thanks goes to Trevor Kjensrud, Bob Field, Jamie King, Daren Hagen, Tim Gilk and anyone else I missed for the winter practice. Thanks to Rich Birdsell, Bill Coleman and Mike Butzlaff for coaching our team.  

Wants Park facts

The Hungry Horse News stated in its June 12 article on a future mountain goat study, “The shuttle system didn’t do what it was intended to do, get a percentage of vehicles off the road” and “The shuttle system is blamed for overloading the trails.”

Marias River grizzly moved to North Fork

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks reported last week that it had relocated a four-year-old grizzly bear captured near the lower Marias River to the North Fork of the Flathead River valley.

Access to Logan Pass from east side opens Saturday

Beginning this Saturday, motorists will be able to access Logan Pass in Glacier Park from the east side of Going-to-the-Sun Road. Vehicles on the west side can travel as far as Avalanche Creek. All 50 miles of the road is anticipated to be open to vehicle travel by Friday, June 21.

Whitefish man fatally shot by Idaho trooper

The man shot and killed near Lookout Pass in Idaho following a struggle over a gun with an Idaho sheriff’s deputy on June 12 has been identified as a 26-year-old Whitefish man.

Logan Pass opens from east side Saturday

Glacier National Park’s Going-to-the-Sun Road will be open for motor vehicles to Logan Pass on Saturday, June 15, Park officials announced Friday.

Nest building observed

This morning, I noticed a robin building its nest outside my office window, about 10 feet from my desk. I know, I know, big deal. So what? Who cares?

Whitefish man killed by Idaho police officer

The man shot and killed on I-90 at Lookout Pass by an Idaho State Police officer on June 12 was a 26-year-old Whitefish man.

Warm June impacting mountain snowpack

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service in Bozeman reports that above-average temperatures during the first two weeks of June has impacted snowpack except at the highest elevations. This could affect streamflow levels later in summer.

Middle Fork clean-up projects

Two West Glacier rafting companies are organizing clean-up projects on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River for this month.

Mercy Peterson

Mercy Sebastian Lee Peterson (Armstrong), 18, died in a car accident on June 7, 2013, in Kalispell.

AAA warns about electronic distractions

Citing recent research on how new electronic devices in vehicles could distract drivers, the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has asked the automotive and electronics industries to cooperate in an effort to make vehicles safer.

Two Wildkats sign with U of Great Falls

Two Columbia Falls High School graduates have signed letters of intent to compete with the University of Great Falls track and field teams this fall, according to head coach Bill Brist.

Michael Fitzpatrick

Michael Thomas Fitzpatrick, 69, died unexpectedly on June 7, 2013, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Amber McAtee

Amber Morgan McAtee, 38, died June 5, 2013.

Montana's natural resource jobs depend on rail

We’ve seen a lot of hand-wringing over coal trains lately. But frankly, railroads are an essential part of Montana’s growth, more now than probably since the first tracks were laid in the state more than 100 years ago. Whether coal trains, grain trains, lumber trains, or oil trains, it’s all good for Montana. It’s a sign that more people are working, more wealth is being created, our economy is strengthening and our tax base is expanding.

Twins outrun Lakers for 12-5 win

The Glacier Twins A picked up another conference baseball win June 5 with an impressive 12-5 victory over the Kalispell Lakers A team.

Vote delayed on final bids for new high school

Approval of the final bid package for the remodel of Whitefish High School has been delayed after further review of subcontractor bids became necessary.

The heavy hand of Whitefish

I see that the heavy hand of the mayor, the council and the planning board, with the support of Central Avenue businesses, will do anything it pleases to get what they want.

Fred Witbrod Sr.

Fred Witbrod Sr., of Columbia Falls, passed on peacefully June 6, 2013.

Louise Smith Wellington LaBrie

Louise Smith Wellington LaBrie, 95, of Whitefish, passed away on Mother’s Day, May 12, at Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center.

Baseball field becomes school garden

Bases were traded in for watermelons last week as Whitefish Middle School students pitched in to transform the baseball diamond south of the high school into a garden.

Whitefish man admits to raping baby sitter

A 24-year-old Whitefish man has admitted raping a baby sitter in a case in which his wife also is charged.

Students apply science to real world projects

Advanced chemistry students at Whitefish High School recently wrapped up year-long research projects that applied science to the world around them.

Meal program serves breakfast, lunch to kids

This summer, children in Whitefish through age 18 will be able to get free meals at Whitefish Middle School as part of a new meal program.

CASA for Kids ride July 27 in Whitefish

Voices for CASA, the fundraising arm of CASA for Kids, is teaming up with Great Northern Cycles for its second annual Cycling for Children bike ride.

Wave expansion breaks ground next week

The 4,600 members at The Wave will soon have a bit more elbow room at the popular fitness center.

Grove sixth in 200-mile Trans-Sylvania Epic

For seven grueling days, local mountain biker Phil Grove battled through the rolling hills and technical rock gardens of the Trans-Sylvania Epic to finish the stage race in sixth place overall.

Zinke mulls senate campaign

Former state legislator Ryan Zinke of Whitefish said last week he might consider a U.S. Senate run if the Montana Republican Party’s big names don’t get in the race.

Police calls: burglars nab perfume, body spray, sweater

A fiscally responsible budget

In May through August of each year, the city council and city officials meet to review the annual budget for the City of Whitefish. The budget provides the authority for the services and projects the city anticipates during the upcoming fiscal year.

Glacier Park's new superintendent has diverse background

Jeff Mow, a 25-year veteran of the National Park Service, has been named superintendent of Glacier National Park.

June 2013 Flathead Valley real estate update

The June real estate market trends update for Flathead County is now available at the following link:

Veterans get federal assistance for homes

Approximately 70 homeless veterans living on the streets and in shelters in Montana will soon find a permanent place to call home.  U.S. Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Shaun Donovan and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Secretary Eric K. Shinseki announced today that HUD will provide $60 million to local public housing agencies across the country to provide permanent supportive housing to homeless veterans, many of whom are living with chronic disabling conditions. Montana will receive $325,181 to assists its homeless veterans.

Swan Ecosystem hosts native plant specialist

Swan Ecosystem Center will host native plant specialist

Plein Air Paint Out

Bigfork Eagle

Bentley touring club motors through Bigfork

By DAVID REESE

Clean Streets: pet waste stations established downtown

Bigfork Eagle

Walking the Red Road: woman builds safe homes in Cambodia for victims of child trafficking

At age 15, Rachel Riggio lost one of her best friends. She found herself adrift and was sent to a rehabilitation school in Utah.

Kayak adventures: Life's an adventure for Kalispell kayak instructor

Ann Clark waited until later in life to start her adventures.

Have skills, will travel: Training horses and people is what this Guardsman does

Neal Stephens does what it takes to support his family. That includes driving to Helena.

Darla Parker

Darla Goe Parker, 62, passed away June 8, 2013, at her home in Columbia Falls.

Emmett Myhre

Emmett Bernard Myhre, 102, passed away June 4, 2013, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell. 

Cats, Dogs tie at annual smoker

The Glacier Twins Cat-Dog Smoker ended in a tie on June 4, with Columbia Falls boxers taking seven matches and Whitefish taking seven.

Twins A squad goes 1-1 for the week

The Glacier Twins A team picked up another conference win June 5 with an impressive 12-5 victory over the Kalispell Lakers A team.

Swimmers third at Shelby meet

The Columbia Falls swim team took third at the Shelby meet June 8-9 to open its season. The Cats sent just 27 swimmers to the meet.

All state, all conference track

The following Columbia Falls track athletes were recently named to the all-state or all-conference squads.

Drilling for North Fork oil in 1948

Drilling for oil was expected to resume in the North Fork was front-page story in the Hungry Horse News in 1948. Border Oil Co. and Kootenay Oil Co. both had crews in the North Fork.

More North Fork history

If there were white men on the North Fork before 1891, they did not stay long. More important, they did not leave much behind in the form of written records. However, it is likely that a few mountain men did visit the North Fork in the years after the 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark expedition.

What Grinnell wrote

The September 1901 issue of The Century Magazine featured a story titled “The Crown of the Continent.” That story is credited by most historians as being the highly effective kick-start to setting aside a vast area of the Northern Rockies as a national park. Quotes from the article are widely used in the following years of campaigning for that goal. Grinnell’s words are still cited in books, magazines, papers, and broadcasts dealing with the formation of our magnificent Glacier National Park.

Plan to delist wolves across U.S.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service plans to delist wolves across the Lower 48. The announcement last week brought support from some groups, but others claim mortality in the existing population is too high.

Outdoor news

Kids camps

Now is a good time for kokanee salmon

The two best times of the year to catch a batch of kokanee salmon are last ice and the weeks surrounding Memorial Day. Last ice is gone, but from now until mid-June, local lakes will be serving up limits of tasty kokes.

Glacier Park harlequin duck is 17 years old

Glacier National Park has a teenager among its wildlife ranks. But this is no ordinary adolescent. It’s a male harlequin duck.

Study to look at Logan Pass goats and humans

Glacier National Park hopes to radio-collar about 20 mountain goats at Logan Pass this year as part of a research project designed to study the iconic animal’s interaction with people.

Park concession contract draws competing bids

Glacier National Park officials acknowledge there is more than one bidder for the concessions contract to run the Park’s historic lodges and red bus fleet.

Lion's Club concerts start next week

The Columbia Falls Lions Club Summer Concert Series will begin next week. The one-hour concerts will be held at the Don Lawrence Amphitheater in Marantette Park, in Columbia Falls, beginning at 7 p.m. Donations of $3 per person or $5 per family are requested. The audience is encouraged to bring chairs or blankets.

Two locals die in wreck

Two Columbia Falls teens were killed in a two-vehicle wreck on U.S. 2 on June 6 just after 10 a.m.

Community news

City pool

Friends, family gather to makeover Robison home

It started out that Linda Olson wanted to spruce up the landscape at Ron and Nancy Robison’s rural Columbia Falls home.

Student promotes awareness of rare disease - his own

For one Columbia Falls Junior High School student, getting the word out about a rare disease is more than a public service — it could mean life or death.

New zoning near river looks to be business, neighborhood friendly

The Columbia Falls planning board will meet at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday (June 11) to discuss a possible new zoning designation for U.S. Highway 2 east, near the Flathead River.

Whitefish rafter rescued from raging Glacier Park creek

A 23-year-old Whitefish man was rescued from Upper McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park on Thursday after becoming stranded while illegally boating in a closed area.

Sun Road open to hikers and bikers this weekend

Hikers and bikers can once again take to the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park this weekend, though the Logan Pass parking lot will be closed from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday while crews work on cleaning the lot. There are no restrictions on the road itself, however.

On Faith: Donald Lamson talks about personal change

Everyone wants to change something. Some want to change their career. Some want to change their appearance, or the way they feel. But how? That is what we ask.

Mistrial declared in case of Bigfork man charged with rape

A Bonner County, Idaho, jury deadlocked May 22 on a verdict in the case of a Bigfork man charged with rape.

Bigfork Classic: Burger Town

Black and white photos from days gone by hang on a deep red wall. Old country music plays in the background while happy voices and sizzling burgers layer on top of each other. This is Burger Town, an institution in Bigfork for over 40 years.

Rafter rescued, ticketed, after falling into McDonald Creek

A Whitefish rafter was rescued from a closed section of upper McDonald Creek in Glacier National Park. Park officials say at approximately 4:30 p.m. May 6 rangers received a report that a rafter had fallen in the water near Red Rock Point and was stranded on a rock in the middle of the creek. The water was swift and high with runoff.

West Glacier woman killed in rollover, dog survives

A West Glacier woman died in a single vehicle rollover accident June 5 west of Kalispell on U.S. Highway 2. The Montana Highway Patrol identified the woman as 38-year-old Amber Morgan McAtee. McAtee’s dog survived the wreck.

City council election up for grabs

This year’s city council election is shaping up to be a wide open race. None of the three councilors whose terms are ending — Chris Hyatt, Phil Mitchell or Bill Kahle — are planning to run to retain their seat.

Itinerant preacher: Lamson funds ministry through investment brokerage

When Donald Lamson told his wife he wanted to go to seminary, she told him to go to his room.

Columbia Falls names junior high award winners

The Columbia Falls Junior High held its award ceremony Wednesday. 

Daines introduces North Fork Watershed Protection Act

Montana Republican Congressman Steve Daines introduced a bill Wednesday that would ban future energy leases on federal lands the North and Middle Fork of the Flathead watersheds.

No new taxes in FY 2014 budget

Whitefish’s proposed 2014 city budget reflects a growing tax base that will allow certain city departments to receive additional funding while keeping the tax rate even.

Whitefish man denies felony drug charge

A Whitefish man who already has denied allegations that he and another man attempted to mail drugs through FedEx has denied a new drug charge.

Police calls: mountain lion spotted at Iron Horse

Young griz euthanized near Eureka

A 3-year old, 17- pound female grizzly bear was euthanized on Saturday after being captured by Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologists in the Glenn Lake area near Eureka.

Plow crews reach Logan Pass

Glacier National Park plow crews have reached Logan Pass and are now working at the Big Drift, a deep snowbank that accumulates just east of Logan Pass. The drift is 80 to 100 feet tall.

Nine teachers set to retire from Whitefish schools

The number of students each has worked with over the years would be hard to count, but each has had their own influence on education in Whitefish.

We've come a long way, but more work remains

We come a long way - And we got a long way to go…

SWT seeks BFFs

Singletrack Whitefish Trail seeks loyal friends. Fun, beautiful, young trail seeks friends for long-term, mutually beneficial relationship. Loves a good walk, bike ride, horseback ride, picnic, fishing trip, bird watching outing — anything without motors, really. Enjoys children, people of all ages, and dogs.

New law firm has roots in Whitefish Trail

Their professional relationship was hatched on the Whitefish Trail. Now, local attorneys Diane Conradi and John Anderson are ready to act as trail guides for businesses navigating the trials and tribulations of entrepreneurship.

Resort tax collections up 24 percent in March

Resort tax collections in Whitefish were up a whopping 24 percent in March compared to last year, making it the best March on record since 2008.

WAG Race thanks

As everyone who participated can attest, the recent WAG Race was tremendous fun for all 439 runners and walkers, as well as scores of spectators.

Field dedicated in memory of Gary Elliott

Kids in cleats were chasing a soccer ball and laughing, while the smell of fresh cut grass lingered in the damp spring air.

CrossFit coach trains mind and body

Try this for your next workout. Run one mile, do 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, then run another mile. All while wearing a 20-pound vest. As fast as you can.

News from Bigfork School District

Please check your children’s lunch accounts.  If you owe money for lunches, please send a check this week.  Questions?

Governor reaches deal for pay raises for state employees

HELENA – Governor Steve Bullock announced today that his administration has reached an agreement with state employees to institute pay raises over each of the next two years.  The 2013 Legislature appropriated a lump sum of approximately $56 million to the executive branch to negotiate raises with Montana’s public servants.

Juice warning issued

Consumers are warned not to drink Townsend Farms Organic Antioxidant blend frozen berry mix that was sold at Costco in Kalispell, the Flathead County Health Department has warned. The product has been linked to at least 49 hepatitis A illnesses in seven states.

Hepatitis A cases linked to frozen berry mix sold at Kalispell Costco

Townsend Farms is recalling the Organic Antioxidant Blend frozen berry mix that was sold at the Costco in Kalispell and other Costco stores across Montana.  The product has been linked to at least 49 hepatitis A illnesses in seven states. 

Library trustees to consider property purchase in Columbia Falls

The Flathead County Library System Board of Trustees will hold a special meeting to consider the purchase of property in Columbia Falls.  The meeting is being held at 2 PM, Monday, June 10 at the Flathead County Main Library, 247 1

17-Year Old Harlequin Duck Identified in Glacier

WEST GLACIER, MONT. – A male harlequin duck, known to be at least 17 years-old, was recently identified in Glacier National Park by University of Montana researchers and Glacier National Park scientists. The banded duck is believed to be the third oldest on record. The oldest known banded harlequin duck has a recorded age of 18 years and 10 months.

2nd Annual “Sentimental Journey” Big Band Dinner Dance

The Sentimental Journey Dinner Dance will be June 15 at the hangar of Ray and Ladeine Thompson at Glacier National Airport.

Happenings this week in Lakeside and Somers

Stone Walkway Installation Class. 

Children invited to Flathead Lake fishing day

The 20th annual Fishing Without Barriers Day will be held on Flathead Lake on Thursday, June 13.  Anglers with disabilities are hosted for free fishing trips on charter boats and other boats provided by volunteers.  The event is sponsored by the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Crossing the Barriers Committee, and the Montana Charter Boat Association.  Woods Bay Marina and Hidden Harbor provide boat launching and picnic facilities.

Local school levies fail

Voters in School District 6 turned down both school levy elections on Tuesday, June 4. Rural voters were opposed, and city voters were in favor of the mill requests.

A modern tale of two cities

Some cities are wondrous things, organisms at once propagating and receding, a single entity with parts living and others dying. We don’t often experience whole cities where success and despair are partners, growth and decay lie side by side, and history’s tumult remains visible.

Sondreson Hall clean-up a big success

Every spring, the North Fork Landowners Association has a spring clean-up at Sondreson Hall that results in sparkling windows, scrubbed floors and an absolutely clean interior.

A new Glacier memory

Had a rather new adventure 10 days ago on first 2013 visit to Glacier National Park. Left at daylight and drove 300 miles on a solo trip which covered most of the east side, from Marias Pass to Canada border. Having a new adventure is never unexpected in such a vast majestic mountain paradise, and it added something unique to my life among those peaks.

Plum Creek grant will help wilderness

A $2,000 Plum Creek Foundation grant will help Bob Marshall Foundation crews safely store food in the backcountry. The grant was used to purchase bear-resistant coolers that can be easily packed on a horse or a mule.

Grizzly bears won't be delisted overnight

The removal of grizzly bears from protection under the Endangered Species List across a large swath of Northwest Montana will be a long process, even though bear managers agree the species has recovered.

Grizzlies nabbed about 100 chickens so far this spring

Bear managers across the Flathead are continuing to have problems with grizzly bears and chickens. To date, grizzlies have dined on about 100 chickens in the valley, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks bear specialist Tim Manley reported last week.

Outdoor news

Citizen science

Park eyes $15 mil renovations for Many Glacier

Glacier National Park’s Many Glacier Hotel could see final renovations in a couple of years, said Jim Foster, the Park’s chief of facility management.

Park superintendent search close to an end

The search for a new Glacier National Park superintendent has been whittled down to one candidate, but the person’s name has not been released yet.

Historical Society seeks support for museum

The Columbia Falls Historical Society presented their mission to the Columbia Falls City Council at its June 3 meeting — establishing a museum for the city.

Man charged with breaking into 17 vehicles across the valley

A 32-year-old Kalispell man charged with breaking into vehicles in Columbia Falls and Kalispell during a four-month spree also faces a charge of issuing bad checks across the valley.

Community news

Prize winner

School news

Doctorate

100 years ago

From the May 29, 1913 issue of The Columbian

Tester opposes border entry fee

A proposal by the Department of Homeland Security to charge a fee for people entering the U.S. through land ports of entry is a bad idea and could hurt the Montana economy, Sen. Jon Tester said last week.

Twins snuffed in near perfect game by Eaves

Kalispell Lakers AA pitcher Dillon Eaves had all his stuff working during Sunday’s nonconference American Legion showdown with the Glacier Twins A team at Memorial Field in Whitefish.

LaVerne Steffes

LaVerne Steffes, 87, passed away May 27, 2013, at Timber Creek Villages in Columbia Falls.

Rae McMaster

Rae Karolyn McMaster, 65, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at her home on March 12, 2013, after a long battle with cardiovascular disease.

Shannon Hallas

Family and friends are invited to a celebration of life for Shannon Hallas on June 15 starting at 1 p.m. Memories, food and fellowship will follow. Come join her family at 4350 Trumble Creek Road in Columbia Falls, rain or shine. Look for the signs. If it storms, it will be held at the Eagles Club in Columbia Falls in the basement. Donations of food will be welcome. Anyone with questions may call Gene and Juanita at 892-3646 or Debbie Hallas at 260-3672.

Vets Home case moved to federal court

The Missoula attorney representing the Columbia Falls Police Department following a Tasing incident at the Montana Veterans Home last year was unopposed in his request to move the lawsuit filed in the case from state court in Helena to federal court in Missoula.

Obama speaks on mental health issues

The following remarks the National Conference on Mental Health were made by President Barack Obama at the White House on June 3, 2013.

Huge avalanche sweeps across Sun Road

A photograph of a large avalanche sweeping across the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier National Park that has drawn a lot of attention lately was taken 10 years ago.