Ellington

Flathead's fire danger raised to extreme

Interagency fire managers on Sunday raised the fire danger to extreme for the Flathead Valley area, citing extremely dry forest fuels along with continued temperatures above normal and low humidity.

Public hearing set for radio tower proposal

Daily Inter Lake

County starts roadside litter pickup program

The Flathead County Solid Waste District is starting a roadside litter pickup program aimed at supplementing the volunteer work done through the state’s

Whitefish city manager to hold coffee event

Whitefish City Manager Adam Hammatt will be holding monthly “Coffee with the City Manager” sessions starting in August.

Police called on to 'stop these idiots'

Reckless drivers were reportedly sighted on Baker Avenue by someone who said there were a lot of vehicles speeding up and down the road and requested that Whitefish Police Department “stop these idiots from killing critters.”

Kalispell man changes plea in sexual assault case

A Kalispell man pleaded guilty by way of Alford to one count of felony sexual intercourse without consent July 27 in Flathead District Court.

County health department issues rabies reminders

The Flathead City-County Health Department has noted a significant increase in the number of reported human and domestic animals contact/interactions with bats and skunks, and reminds everyone that rabies continues to pose a risk to pets and people.

Robert 'Bob' Bonham, 91

Robert “Bob” Bonham “passed into his Savior’s more immediate presence” on Friday evening, July 28, 2017, in Kalispell, at age 91.

Victim of golf mishap requires tourniquet

Whitefish Police were called to Iron Horse Drive where a golf cart reportedly rolled onto a man’s foot. According to police logs, the man was bleeding, had a large laceration on the back of his heel and scrapes on his elbow. The reporting caller had another person nearby put a makeshift tourniquet on the injuries until help arrived.

Kalispell parking permits available

Parking permits for the Flathead High School/West Side Parking District are available starting today, July 31.

Lutheran pastor chooses ministry over military service

Steve Snipstead didn’t want to be a pastor. A career in the U.S. Navy sounded like a better idea.

Quick response saves tourist having heart attack while hiking in Glacier

On July 28, Barbara Sue Brodie sat in a sunlit hospital room of the intensive care unit Kalispell Regional Medical Center in the company of her husband and two daughters. She had survived a major heart attack and cardiogenic shock — a rare, but usually fatal condition if not treated immediately — while hiking in Glacier National Park.

Generals, admirals thank Trump for policy change

Chinese political prisoner is reminder of price of freedom

On July 13, Nobel Peace Prize laureate Liu Xiaobo, a political prisoner in China and a champion of democracy, died of liver cancer in a Chinese hospital. The world mourned, but in China his death was barely noted. The Chinese government is responsible for Liu Xiaobo’s death. It imprisoned him unjustly, then withheld proper medical treatment until his cancer was too advanced to treat. At the end it spurned international appeals to allow him to emigrate abroad with his wife so he could die a free man in a free country.

Daines' proposal to end filibuster is a bad idea

Congress is in crisis, and some members of the U.S. Senate suggest fundamental changes that would forever alter the future of that esteemed body. In one dramatic proposal, Montana’s own Sen. Steve Daines has proposed getting rid of the historic Senate filibuster rule:

Reinventing downtown Kalispell

It’s exciting to imagine downtown Kalispell as a place where people want to spend time, a place where shoppers can walk comfortably from store to store, or sit outside a local eatery without hearing the constant rumble of traffic blasting by on the four-lane highway that cuts through the city’s core.

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I applaud Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson and the City Council for awarding the bid to begin the Glacier Rail Park Development. Kudos also to City Manager Doug Russell and his staff for all their hard work. Infrastructure development creates jobs — now as construction begins and in the future as strong infrastructure supports profitable enterprise. It’s tax dollars returning to the pockets of taxpayers, and I’m all for it. —Mike Merchant, Kalispell

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I applaud Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson and the City Council for awarding the bid to begin the Glacier Rail Park Development. Kudos also to City Manager Doug Russell and his staff for all their hard work. Infrastructure development creates jobs — now as construction begins and in the future as strong infrastructure supports profitable enterprise. It’s tax dollars returning to the pockets of taxpayers, and I’m all for it. —Mike Merchant, Kalispell

Wars and rumors of wars

President inherited a global ‘mess,’ so now what?

Is Trump going to be responsible for leading us into another war as some have suggested? There are indeed a number of hot spots around the Globe including China, North Korea, and the Middle East.

Time for a refresher of 'Rules of Civility'

Rarely a day goes by that I don’t shake my head at the headlines — both local and national — of people behaving badly.

Triplett wins PBR event in Big Sky

BIG SKY — Columbia Falls bull rider Matt Triplett made the most of his trip to his home state, winning Big Sky PBR, a Professional Bull Riders Velocity Tour event on Saturday night at Sage Brush Field.

Lakers A ousted at Class A state tournament

THREE FORKS — An early lead slowly evaporated and eventually disappeared completely for the Kalispell Lakers A in a season-ending, 6-5 loss to the Billings Cardinals on Saturday in the Montana/Alberta Class A American Legion state baseball tournament.

O'Connell's bring fuel to Swan Lake

“It’s better to work twice as hard for yourself than make more money for someone else,” Hannah O’Connell said from behind the counter at the recently-opened O’Connell’s Qwick Stop. She and her husband, Preston, opened the doors to the Swan Lake convenience store July 1 and also brought much-needed fuel to the area.

Van man makes relationship problems public

An individual contacted the Whitefish Police Department to report a suspicious male who allegedly stepped out of his van yelling profanities and then urinated. An officer spoke with the male in question who allegedly appeared intoxicated and told the officer he was pouring out a water bottle, not urinating, and was yelling because of reported relationship problems. The officer took the man’s keys.

Ben William Ryan, 94

Ben William Ryan passed away peacefully July 26, 2017, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls with his loving wife Agnes, “Butchie,” and friends at his side.

Rose (Gonsalves) Penrod, 56

“His Lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord.’” Matthew 25:23

Kasey White Faulk, 68

Kasey White Faulk, 68, of Hungry Horse, passed away on June 20, 2017.

Rachel 'Betty' Ethelyn Lovell Fountain, 94

Rachel “Betty” Lovell Fountain, past away peacefully at the Heritage Place in Kalispell on the 22nd of July 2017.

Connie Gayle MacLean, 69

Connie Gayle MacLean, 69, lost her battle with interstitial lung disease on Sunday, July 9, 2017, at the HealthCenter at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Dorothy Jean Roberson, 92

Dorothy Jean Roberson was born in Eureka, Kansas, on Feb. 6, 1925, to Creet and Adelia Meredith. Dorothy was a very bright student in high school and earned a place in the National Honor Society.

Lorraine Dempsey, 81

On July 23, 2017, Lorraine Dempsey of Kalispell “decided to take a nap. When she woke up, she woke up in a new, bright beautiful place.

Esther M. (Frolander) Janke Portrey, 87

Esther was born on July 15, 1929, to Carl and Ruth Frolander in Somers.

NIGHT OF THE GRIZZLIES

It was midnight when Bert Gildart heard the voice come over his radio.

Monster swamp vs. swamp monster: A D.C. allegory

Politically speaking, I’m caught between a rock and a hard place, or more appropriately between a monster swamp and a swamp monster.

No serious injuries in four-vehicle crash on U.S. 2

A four-vehicle crash Saturday at a notoriously dangerous area on U.S. 2 near Columbia Falls ended with four people in the hospital.

Lakers A survive and advance at Legion baseball state tournament

THREE FORKS — The scenario entering Friday’s play at the Montana/Alberta Class A American Legion baseball state tournament wasn’t ideal for the Kalispell Lakers.

Reilly, Eskimos keep rolling, rout BC Lions

EDMONTON, Alberta — No comeback needed this time.

Suspicious men offer no reason to smile

An employee at a local jewelry store contacted the Whitefish Police Department to report there were two males in the store allegedly asking customers for smiles. A second caller reported the same two individuals, who appeared intoxicated, were asking people for money and cigarettes near a local church. The caller reported later on the two men were attending an AA meeting downstairs in the church.

Jean Elaine Kinsman, 97

Jean Kinsman of Kalispell passed away on July 23, 2017, in Brendan House.

Judith E. Morran-Hatten, 78

Judith E. Morran-Hatten died on July 21, 2017, due to complications of dementia.

Cities react to rising fire danger

The city of Columbia Falls enacted Stage 2 fire restrictions on Friday, and the city of Whitefish issued a fire advisory with the caveat that Whitefish likely will be issuing Stage 2 restrictions that already are in effect on state and federal lands, Glacier National Park and on private land in Flathead County and other neighboring counties.

Flathead debater finishes 7th at nationals

Flathead High School brought home top recognition from the 2017 National Speech and Debate Tournament in Birmingham, Alabama, in June.

Western Montana leads economic growth

While the labor market continues to improve in Montana, business proprietor income has suffered steep declines and will continue to see slower earnings growth through the rest of 2017.

Yellowstone cracks down on sex harassment

BILLINGS (AP) — As many as 10 workers in Yellowstone National Park’s maintenance division will be disciplined after an investigation found female employees were subjected to sexual harassment and other problems.

Trump pushes out Priebus, names DHS' Kelly WH chief of staff

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced Friday he was appointing Homeland Security head John Kelly to be White House chief of staff, ending the tumultuous six-month tenure of Reince Priebus.

McGarvey: A gracious problem-solver

One of the pleasures of working in the newspaper business is that we get to meet and enjoy the company of many members of the community.

Flathead grad Mike Reilly named CFL Player of the Week

EDMONTON, Alberta — Edmonton Eskimos quarterback Mike Reilly is a CFL Player of the Week for Week 5 for his performance in Friday’s 31-28 victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

Lakers AA eliminated at Legion baseball state tourney

BOZEMAN — The Kalispell Lakers AA saw their season come to an end Thursday afternoon.

Stage 2 restrictions for most of Northwest Montana

Stage II fire restrictions will go into effect Friday across most of Northwest Montana, the Flathead Office of Emergency Services reported Thursday.

Woman linked to homicide case faces bail-jumping charges

The Kalispell woman charged in connection with the April murder of Anthony Andrew Walthers has absconded from supervision and now faces additional felony bail-jumping charges after she failed to appear for a court hearing on July 19.

Flathead Lake remains pristine; future cloudy

Flathead Lake remains one of the most pristine lakes in the country, but according to the 2017 State of the Lake report presented Wednesday night, its future is cloudy.

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Couch surfer booted from front porch

A woman reportedly awoke to find a strange man sleeping on her couch. The man allegedly sat on her front porch while she called Whitefish Police. The man allegedly removed a screen from a window in order to gain entry into the house. The woman decline to press charges against her uninvited guest but asked officers to remove him from her property.

Erwin R. Jensen, 74

Erwin R. Jensen passed away unexpectedly at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on July 16, 2017, of natural causes after a short illness.

Willa Marie Wilson Johns, 82

Willa Marie Wilson Johns passed away peacefully on July 22, 2017, with her family at her side, at her home in Spokane Valley, Washington.

FEMA reverses decision on fire aid

HELENA (AP) — The U.S. government abruptly reversed itself Thursday and said it will offer aid to Montana for the cost of fighting the nation’s largest wildfire, which has destroyed 16 homes and prompted 34 states to send crews and equipment.

Interior chief warns Alaska senators on health care

WASHINGTON — Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke called Alaska’s two Republican senators to warn them of repercussions for the nation’s largest state if they failed to toe the Trump administration line on health care, according to a published report.

Boy Scout leader apologizes for Trump's political rhetoric

NEW YORK (AP) — The Boy Scouts' chief executive apologized Thursday to members of the scouting community who were offended by the aggressive political rhetoric in President Donald Trump's recent speech to the Scouts' national jamboree.

Montana health providers warn cuts would be disastrous

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana health officials are proposing Medicaid cuts that health care providers said Thursday would force nursing homes to turn away patients, put more people with mental illnesses in jail and prompt layoffs of workers who care for the disabled.

Athlete of the year finalists set new benchmarks

The 12 finalists for the Daily Inter Lake’s Athlete of the Year all had incredible seasons. Read more about each athlete below.

Northwest has too much talent to list it all

It’s time, once again, to nominate the best prep athletes in the region for the Daily Inter Lake’s Athlete of the Year. The 12 finalists are the collection of athletes in the running for the top spot for boys and girls.

Lakers struggle in State AA opening loss

BOZEMAN — The Kalispell Lakers got off to a rough start at the Montana-Alberta American Baseball Legion Class AA state tournament on Wednesday, losing to the Helena Senators 7-3 in the opening round of play.

Panhandler hopes for Oscar nomination

A caller reported to Kalispell Police that a panhandler was doing different theatrical actions to each driver he encountered in front of a local restaurant. The reporting party said they felt “emotionally disturbed.” The caller stated the man was being “negatively theatrical” but could not describe the alleged gestures.

Sharon Ann Martin, 69

Sharon Ann Martin, 69, of Polson, passed away on July 23, 2017, in Kalispell.

Richard Allen Baars, 64

Richard Allen Baars, 64, passed away July 23, 2017, in Kalispell.

FVCC board approves $20 million budget

Following a $1.3 million cut in state funding in April, Flathead Valley Community College will work to stretch a nearly $20 million budget for the 2018 fiscal year.

Local schools prepare for cuts

Montana school districts will have to account for an estimated $6.6 million in budget cuts to for the upcoming school year as a result of overestimated state revenue projections.

Nonprofit brings Lawrence disc-golf course up to par

After sitting unfinished for almost a decade, the Lawrence Park disc-golf course is complete as of Tuesday thanks to a group of devoted disc golfers.

Evacuations ordered for Mineral County fire

HELENA (AP) — Authorities are telling residents in part of western Montana’s Mineral County to leave their homes immediately as a wildfire approaches.

Health law uncertainty balloons insurance rates

HELENA — Not knowing what Congress and President Donald Trump will do with health care has led Montana’s largest insurer to propose a rate hike for next year that’s 10 times higher than it would have otherwise, company officials said Wednesday.

County imposes Stage 2 fire restrictions

Stage 2 fire restrictions have been imposed on all private lands in Flathead County, effective immediately.

Kelly John Peterson, 55

Kelly John Peterson, 55, of Provo, Utah, passed away Saturday, July 18, 2017, at his home.

Pigs leave their blanket to make the rounds

Someone on East Evergreen Drive was reportedly greeted one morning by five pigs in his or her yard according to a report from Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Dale McGarvey, 90

Dale McGarvey passed away July 22, 2017, at the age of 90.

Brendan Colin Johnson, 45

Gunnery Sgt. Brendan Colin Johnson, 45, died tragically on Monday, July 10, 2017, when he and 15 of his fellow servicemen were killed in an aircraft accident in Mississippi.

Warren Richard Williams, 90

Warren Richard Williams, 90, of Kalispell, passed away on July 20, 2017.

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Attorney for the 'common man' dies at age 90

Longtime Kalispell attorney Dale McGarvey, who spent much of his legal career advocating for the “common man” in legal battles against big corporations, insurance companies and the government, died Saturday. He was 90.

Wetland conservation project nears funding mark

The Flathead Land Trust has nearly reached its fundraising goal for a wetland conservation project northwest of Kalispell.

At 100, man continues to record his life

Most people wonder what their legacy will be. One Whitefish man has been able to watch his mark on the world grow through five generations.

Wire mishap sparks U.S. 2 grass fire

A human-caused grass fire burned about 1 acre of undeveloped land off U.S. 2 West in Columbia Falls Monday evening.

Montana revenue shortfall triggers worst-case budget cuts

HELENA — Montana revenues have fallen far enough below projections to trigger a worst-case scenario — $97 million in spending cuts across state government starting as soon as next month — Gov. Steve Bullock’s budget director said Tuesday.

Judy (Filiatreau) Schooley, 75, and Burton Carroll Schooley, 79

This year saw the passing of both Judy (Filiatreau) Schooley and Burton Carroll Schooley. They were married in 1964 and had two children, Tim Schooley and Robyn (Schooley) Calabretta. They both truly enjoyed being grandparents to Austin Calabretta and Saige Schooley. They are survived by their children, grandchildren, Judy’s mother Mary Filiatreau and Judy’s brother Bob Filiatreau.

Glenn David Haas, 30

Glenn David Haas, “a child of God, was received in the arms of our heavenly Father” on July 19, 2017. He will be greatly missed here.

Here from the start

By EVAN MCCULLERS

American Legion Baseball Lakers AA face Helena, again, in state tourney opener

The fifth-seeded Kalispell Lakers will face the No. 4 seed Helena Senators on Wednesday at noon in first-round action at the Class AA Montana/Alberta American Legion state baseball tournament in Bozeman.

Reunion to reconnect employees from '60s and '70s

It’s been a half century since they carried luggage, cooked, scrubbed pots and pans, changed sheets and waited tables surrounded by the beauty of Glacier National Park’s Lake McDonald Lodge.

Flathead fire danger 'very high'

In the hours following Montana Gov. Steve Bullock’s announcement that the state had entered a fire emergency, Flathead crews worked to douse flames of small fires throughout the valley as the fire danger jumped to “very high” in Northwest Montana.

City planners release strategy for future

City planners have created an image of downtown Kalispell as a destination rather than something to “pass through” in a 61-page document that gives a glimpse of what the city’s heart could look like by 2035.

Trailer not for sale or rent, apparently

A woman wanted Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to check out a trailer on Jellison Road in Columbia Falls after she said she knocked on the man’s door to check if the property was for sale — despite that it wasn’t listed as such — and he reportedly refused to come to the door, yelling at her to leave. While she didn’t know who owned the property she “was adamant that he was not supposed to be there since he was so irate,” and “felt him becoming upset at being disturbed was odd.”

Flathead Lakers hold annual meeting

The Flathead Lakers will host their annual State of the Lake meeting on Wednesday evening.

Ronan man, 19, killed in motorcycle accident

Authorities have identified a 19-year-old Ronan man killed in a motorcycle crash that occurred the night of July 20.

Corvallis man dies from fall in Glacier Park

The Flathead County Sheriff/Coroner’s Office has released the name of a man who died Saturday afternoon after falling at Haystack Creek in Glacier National Park.

Education pro takes on new role

Eliza Sorte-Thomas cherishes the relationships and friendships she has made as her career in education continues unfolding in new ways, from Bigfork to Bangladesh.

Legion Baseball Lakers AA sweep Butte; state play next in Bozeman

BUTTE — The Kalispell Lakers AA wrapped up another successful campaign on the diamond late Saturday night by sweeping the Butte Miners 12-3 and 10-9 in the regular-season American Legion baseball finale for both squads.

American Legion Baseball Red Sox blank Lakers in West District A title game

The Daily Inter Lake

Col. Falls woman pleads not guilty to assault on officer

A Columbia Falls woman who reportedly raised a gun at a deputy in June pleaded not guilty to a charge of felony assault on a peace officer at Flathead District Court Thursday, July 20.

Col. Falls meeting to explain highway project

An informational meeting to update the public about planned improvements to U.S. 2 through Columbia Falls will be held at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 26, at Columbia Falls City Hall.

Flathead County jobless rate slightly improved in June

Flathead County’s unemployment rate improved in June, posting at 4.5 percent, compared to 4.8 percent in May.

Be prudent with endangered species reform

Congressional Republicans last week rolled out a handful of bills aimed at reforming the Endangered Species Act, the landmark law passed more than 40 years ago that aims to protect and recover species on the brink of extinction.

Surprising Lakers advance to West Dist. A title game

WHITEFISH — Kalispell battled back from a 10-0 deficit to slip by the Bitterroot Bucs 13-12 in semifinal play Saturday afternoon at the West District A American Legion baseball tournament at Memorial Field.

Vasquez finishes second at USA Wrestling nationals

FARGO, N.D. — Flathead sophomore Tilynne Vasquez captured second place at the USA Wrestling Cadet women’s national championships on Tuesday, finishing a tiebreaker away from a national title.

Like father, like daughter: Knight follows dad's footsteps to the top

Travis Knight became accustomed to pressure-packed situations during his days playing basketball at the highest levels.

Kalispell's Avery wins State Women's Am

The Daily Inter Lake

Doug and Linda Johnson

Doug and Linda Johnson of Whitefish celebrated their 50th anniversary on July 21.

Civility matters, no matter what

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Glacier Bancorp reports net income increase

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Glacier Bancorp reports net income increase

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Glacier Bancorp reports net income increase

A seller's market

Home prices are on the rise in the Flathead Valley, according to Kelley Appraisal’s midyear real estate report. The Kalispell-based appraisal firm has monitored real estate trends in the Flathead for over 30 years.

Erin Catherine Brenneman, 26

Erin Catherine Brenneman passed away on Saturday, July 15, 2017, in Portland, due to injuries suffered in a hit-and-run incident. She was surrounded by friends and family. She was 26 years old.

Disturbing the peace with a bullhorn in hand

A group of 15 people were screaming insults at each other through a megaphone. Both parties were advised by Kalispell Police officers about disturbing the peace.

Ann “Randy” Raine Beim, 79

Ann “Randy” Raine Beim, 79, of Kalispell, passed away Thursday, July 13, 2017, at her home.

Robert Raymond Gruber, 91

On Wednesday, July 19, 2017, following a brief illness, Robert Raymond Gruber, 91, “was called home to his family.”

William A. Jensen, 75

Our world lost one of the good guys … William A. Jensen, 75, mercifully passed away at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula from a horrible lung disease on July 4, 2017, after keeping it at bay for many years. He didn’t let it slow him down until the last few months. A friend said recently that he lived large and globally while still appreciating the simple pleasures of family, friends, mud, and nature. In the early hours of July 6, much of Montana felt a 5.8 earthquake. We’re sure it was Bill saying farewell, and wishing Carole a happy birthday.

Fair steps up technology with iPads for entries

The Northwest Montana Fair is stepping up its computer technology this year by adding iPads to the entry and judging process.

Farm Hands happy to have 'ants in their pants'

The Whitefish-based Farm Hands – Nourish the Flathead organization recently received a $2,000 infusion from the Red Ants Pants Foundation.

Boys shares story of lengthy recovery after boat explosion

One year after surviving a devastating boat explosion that left Jeremiah Hilliard and several members of his family severely burned, the 7-year-old has taken a superhero approach to turning tragedy into triumph.

Grant third at cross country cycling event

The Daily Inter Lake

House of Mystery still thrilling visitors after 47 years

About 13 miles west of Glacier National Park sits a small wooden building nestled in a wooded area just off U.S. 2 and decorated with elaborate signs typical of any roadside attraction.

Avery leads Women's State Am entering final round

LAUREL — Kalispell’s Teigan Avery attacked the course at Laurel Golf Club on Friday, shooting a round three strokes better than any other competitor to pull out to a five-stroke lead after two rounds at the Montana State Women’s Amateur golf tournament.

Bucks stymie Lakers AA

The Kalispell Lakers AA found trouble reaching base against Bozeman’s Morgan Hostetter in a 6-1 loss to the Bucks on Friday in the final home game of the American Legion baseball season at Griffin Field.

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Lakers A knock off Twins on day of upsets at West District tourney

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Lakers A knock off Twins on day of upsets at West District tourney

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Lakers A knock off Twins on day of upsets at West District tourney

The Event at Rebecca Farm Simmonds, Impressively Done a model of consistency

The Event at Rebecca Farm is frequently described as a “destination event” by those in eventing circles, a contest marked on the calendar of every serious competitor in the sport.

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Rabies cases are rare, difficult to track

Noise rose from the chicken coop again, and George Baumbach watched his son run toward their animals. Inside, they found a skunk drooling so much it looked like foam and shaking its head as it attacked their chickens.

Great Northern Trail to close for improvements

The Kila portion of the Great Northern Trail will be closed for improvements beginning Tuesday, July 25, or Wednesday, July 26.

School calendar

School calendar

Woman charged with DUI with child in car

A 41-year-old woman is in jail after allegedly driving under the influence with a 5-year-old child in the front passenger seat of the vehicle.

Slow ride: Old cars back up traffic

A driver called Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to complain about a string of Model T cars that were allegedly backing up traffic between Bigfork and Kalispell.

Clarence Frank Rydeen, 80

Clarence Frank Rydeen “went to be with Jesus” on his 80th birthday, June 22, 2017, at home surrounded by family.

Phyllis Alice Hartsoch, 98

Phyllis Alice Hartsoch, 98, (also known as Grandma), died July 13, 2017, at the home she shared with her daughter Donna Rae and Jim Bruner after selling her home in Bay City, Washington. Her family was with her during her painless “trip to meet the Lord.”

Jay B. Hill, 61

Jay B. Hill “joined his parents, Julius “Jiggs” and Ferne Hill, in heaven” on June 27, 2017. Jay was 61 years old.

Barbara Shirley Postlewait, 89

Barbara Shirley Postlewait passed away on Thursday July 6, 2017, at the age of 89 in Bozeman, Montana after a 5+-year battle with Alzheimer’s.

Paul Edwin 'Smokey' Gould, 85

Paul Edwin Gould, 85, passed away July 1, 2017.

Beverly Jean Price, 70

Our beloved mother, Beverly Jean Price, 70, of Columbia Falls, passed “into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” on July 2, 2017, at home surrounded by her loving family and companion Johnny Leubner. Bev fought a long and courageous battle of cancer and many other illnesses.

Business development helps economy thrive

One of the reasons our Flathead economy is thriving has a lot to do with the day-in and day-out work of the Montana West Economic Development staff. The organization is on the front line of promoting economic development in our corner of the world. That work is conducted on many levels and often behind the scene.

Glacier chief pulled from Facebook founder's tour of park

HELENA — President Donald Trump’s Interior Department prevented Glacier National Park’s superintendent from accompanying Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg on a recent park tour to save money, not to mute criticism over climate change, a spokeswoman for the agency said Thursday.

Reilly drives Eskimos to another win

HAMILTON, Ontario — Edmonton Eskimos quarterback Mike Reilly, a 2003 Flathead High grad, engineered a 75-yard touchdown-scoring drive in the final 1:10 of play to lead his team to a 31-28 victory over the Hamilton Tiger Cats (0-4) on Thursday in the Canadian Football League.

Elliott, Lakers AA shut down Bozeman, 4-2

Sam Elliott was brilliant on the mound, the offense did enough damage to drive in enough runs and the defense was near perfect in a 4-2 Class AA American Legion baseball victory for the Kalispell Lakers over the Bozeman Bucks on Thursday evening at Griffin Field.

Avery, Mee in hunt at State Women's Am

The Daily Inter Lake

Dist. A: Lakers overcome errors, rally by Mavs 9-6

WHITEFISH — Seems hard to imagine winning a baseball game while committing 10 errors, but the Kalispell Lakers did just that Thursday afternoon during first-round action at the West District A American Legion tournament at Memorial Field.

The Event steps in, helps young riders

In a typical year, the three disciplines that make up the North American Junior and Young Rider Championships — pure dressage, pure show jumping and eventing — are held in the same location, resulting in a gathering of the best young talent equestrian has to offer.

High-speed chase ends with crash in Lakeside

Two women have been arrested as a result of a high-speed police chase late Wednesday night that began near St. Ignatius and ended in the Lakeside area.

2 sentenced in Echo Lake murder case

After tears were shed, words of forgiveness spoken, immeasurable loss expressed and the role drugs played emphasized in testimony from family and friends — the final two of four co-defendants involved in the May 2016 fatal stabbing of Wade Rautio were sentenced to prison Thursday in Flathead District Court.

Matthew Lee Olson, 51

Matthew Lee Olson passed away at his home on July 17, 2017.

Marcia 'Marcy' Stevens Sandru, 61

Marcia “Marcy” Stevens Sandru passed away peacefully on Monday, July 17, 2017, in her home in Kalispell.

Horse rescued from kill pen competes at The Event

Twisted Oliver, a 2-year-old Appaloosa, strutted around a grassy field at Rebecca Farm under the guise of his handler and owner, Michelle Donaldson. His multi-colored coat had been neatly trimmed and his black mane subdued into taut braids, ever bit as show-ready as his sole competitor, Dawn Gronlund’s Ferragamo CCSH.

Fires west of Kalispell 100 percent contained

Crews have fully contained five wildfires burning west of Kalispell, 11 days after lightning sparked the blazes that charred about 1,200 total acres.

Missoula student detained in China after dispute with cabbie

BEIJING (AP) — Police in central China have arrested an American college student on charges of intentional injury following an altercation with a taxi driver, according to the student’s mother and a family friend.

State elections chief alleges voter fraud

HELENA — Montana’s chief elections officer alleged Thursday that voter fraud may be more common than local officials acknowledge and asserted that more than 360 illegal ballots were cast, but not counted, during the special congressional election in May.

Firefighter killed by falling tree

MISSOULA (AP) — A 19-year-old firefighter died after being struck by a falling tree while responding to a small blaze in western Montana, officials said Thursday.

Back in the neigh-borhood

Ian Stark has a tried-and-true way of gathering reviews of his cross-country course design each year at The Event at Rebecca Farms.

Learning a new language

Penalty corners. 3-meter lines. Goes. Offloads.

Whitefish edges Kennewick in Cal Ripken regional opener

WHITEFISH — Whitefish beat the Kennewick Nationals 7-6 on Wednesday night to wrap up Day 1 of pool play at the 12U Major70 Pacific Northwest Regional Tournament at Smith Fields.

Bennett reflects on Epperly's influence

Montana coaches have a long, rich history, whether it’s leading players in high school, college, or even some in the professional ranks. Some of those legends have been right here in the Flathead Valley. One of those legends in the coaching profession, Bill Epperly, was lost a few weeks ago. On my show, I spoke to many people who were coached by the man in his many years at Flathead High. I asked Grady Bennett, who is now a head coach himself, about the impact Coach Epperly had on him.

GOP targets Endangered Species Act as protections lifted

WASHINGTON (AP) — Congressional Republicans are moving forward with legislation to roll back the Endangered Species Act, amid complaints that the landmark 44-year-old law hinders drilling, logging and other activities.

County asked to set election or approve expansion

The leaders of an effort to expand a zoning district east of Kalispell to include land where a water-bottling plant is planned have asked the Flathead County commissioners to set a Nov. 7 election for a ballot issue on the district expansion. A second option, their attorney suggested, is for the commissioners to reconsider their earlier vote and approve the Egan Slough Zoning District expansion.

Bald eagle rescued in Kalispell on the mend at Wild Wings

When one Kalispell woman spotted an eagle resting on top of a hay bale, what she thought was a photo opportunity soon turned into a rescue operation.

Preventing 'reefer madness' one cookie at a time

A business owner told the Kalispell Police Department that a “booth renter” allegedly brought in a cookie containing marijuana and owed the business money. The person making the complaint reportedly brought in the “chronic” cookie for police to destroy.

Kalispell moves to increase forestry fees

To address years of backlog of urban forestry projects, the Kalispell City Council will ask residents for their take on increasing the city’s forestry assessments.

Kalispell woman injured in hit-and-run dies

A 26-year-old Kalispell woman died on July 14 of injuries she sustained after she was struck in a hit-and-run incident in Portland, Oregon that left her in critical condition for several weeks.

Kalispell wraps up requirements for $10M redevelopment grant

After years of working toward a $10 million federal grant slotted to revamp Kalispell, city officials said they’ve jumped through the last hoop needed to ensure the money arrives.

Betty (Westley) Bradford, 69

Betty Bradford was born on July 21, 1947, in Bowman, North Dakota, to Harry and Ione Westley.

John Ellsworth Van, 85

John Ellsworth Van, 85, passed away Sunday afternoon, July 9, 2017, at the family home, surrounded by his family.

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From the June 19 front page of the Daily Inter Lake: “Zinke leaning toward privatizing park camps.”

Cost of choosing false leaders

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From the June 19 front page of the Daily Inter Lake: “Zinke leaning toward privatizing park camps.”

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From the June 19 front page of the Daily Inter Lake: “Zinke leaning toward privatizing park camps.”

Locals go at HS finals rodeo

GILLETTE, Wyo. — Rodeo has been a lifelong love for the four competitors from the Flathead Valley representing Montana in this week’s National High School Finals Rodeo.

Time to post warnings about tricky rapid

About a week ago the Daily Inter Lake reported on the dangers of a hazardous rapid on the North Fork of the Flathead River known as Shelf Rapid.

Fore! Dog walks off with errant golf shot

An angry golfer reported a woman for stealing his golf ball and running into her house with it. The man told Kalispell Police, when he asked for the ball back, the woman’s husband threatened to shoot him. The woman involved stated that her dog had found the ball and picked it up. The woman had taken the ball from her dog and then run back across the street into her home to avoid being hit by flying balls. She told officers the ball’s owner had allegedly come onto her property carrying a golf club and demanding she return it, at which time her husband told the man to leave and said he would get the gun when he refused.

Herbert A. Grant, 80

Herb Grant, of Bigfork, passed away on July 5, 2017.

Dennis 'DJ' Ronald Jarvis, 77

Dennis “DJ” Ronald Jarvis, of Bigfork, passed away at his home on July 14, 2017.

Robert Arnold “Bob” Woodhouse, 72

Robert Arnold “Bob” Woodhouse, 72, died or, as he liked to say, he was called home to the “Big Aquarium in the Sky” after a two year siege with cancer. He died peacefully at home July 16, 2017.

Mary Ruth (Fredenberg) Olson, 75

Mary left this earthly life on July 14, 2017, just as she lived it, surrounded by family and friends who loved her dearly.

Whitefish considers changes for zoning overlays

Whitefish is ready to unveil the rewrite of the city’s zoning code for planned-unit development overlays, and will do so during a public hearing Thursday before the Whitefish Planning Board.

USS Montana: Taking the Big Sky under the sea

The commissioning committee for the nuclear attack submarine, the USS Montana is looking for ways to bring a Big Sky feel to the underwater vessel. Once complete, the USS Montana will be the first submarine to bear the state’s name and will join more than 10 other vessels in the Navy’s Virginia class.

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Kalispell moves to raise stormwater fees

Faced with more funding needs for Kalispell’s stormwater infrastructure, City Council members were left with two options. Both plans increase the stormwater assessment for residents, but debate centered on how much that price should go up.

Weekend thunderstorms spark new wildfires

At least four new wildfires popped up in Northwest Montana last weekend. The new starts, all caused by lightning, are currently burning less than one acre each.

Bullock downplays presidential aspirations

HELENA — Montana Gov. Steve Bullock downplayed his national political ambitions Tuesday even as he set up a committee that would fund travel for political appearances across the country.

Local woman educates on birds of prey

Struck from the sky by a passing car while hunting near the Silver Bullet Bar in Columbia Falls, a young rough-legged hawk was in critical condition when a savior stepped in to help.

Old pipes cause water damage at Somers school

About 28 feet of cast-iron pipe will be replaced at Somers Middle School after discovering water damage in a crawl space beneath the kitchen, cafeteria and maintenance room.

Region's best youth teams hit Whitefish diamond

WHITEFISH — Seven teams from five states will vie for a spot in the Cal Ripken World Series when the 12U Major70 Pacific Northwest Regional Tournament kicks off today at Memorial Field.

American Legion Baseball Red Sox, Twins top seeds in West district tourney

The Daily Inter Lake

State gives hunters more time to snag bonus points

Montana hunters in the race for the tags they want now have more time to

Facebook founder visits Glacier, Blackfeet reservation

Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg toured Glacier National Park and the Blackfeet Indian Reservation in Montana over the weekend as part of his personal challenge to visit every state this year.

Kalispell Regional Healthcare offers medical assistant scholarships

As an effort to bring more skilled workers to the Flathead Valley during a health-worker shortage, Kalispell Regional Healthcare is offering several scholarships to students who enroll in Flathead Valley Community College’s Medical Assistant program.

South Fork bridge to close briefly for maintenance

Sletten Construction will briefly close the South Fork bridge located just east of Hungry Horse from 3 a.m. to 4:30 a.m. Saturday, July 22. During this time, the bridge will be closed to the traveling public.

Whitefish to tweak invasive species regulations

The Whitefish City Council turns its attention to aquatic invasive species tonight with two agenda items.

Siblings team up to create unique art

The walls of Jersey Boy’s Pizza in Whitefish hold bright paintings and sketches of bald figures with gritted teeth, floating heads and skeleton-like men. The lines are bold and show no hesitation. The characters are tough and ready to fight.

Loan program busy as local economy ramps up

Buoyed by a local economy that is thriving, Montana West Economic Development originated seven loans to local businesses totaling $1.2 million last year.

Lakers AA sweep Elks

The Kalispell Lakers AA took an American Legion baseball doubleheader from the Lethbridge Elks AA on Sunday afternoon at Griffin Field, winning 8-1 and 7-3.

Riddle returns to Victory Lane at Montana 200

There was no stopping Owen Riddle.

Kalispell City Council Public hearing scheduled for assessment

The public will have the opportunity to weigh in on the future changes and potential increases in storm-water and forestry assessments on Kalispell residents in Monday’s Kalispell City Council meeting.

Stop-gap in place for jail overcrowding

The Flathead County jail has room for a few dozen more “guests” since a temporary addition opened July 2 on the second floor of the Justice Center.

Great Fish Challenge launches July 20

Whitefish Community Foundation will kick off this year’s Great Fish Community Challenge on Thursday, July 20, with a Gone Fishin’ social gathering and Great Fish Community Challenge launch party at First Interstate Bank of Whitefish from 5 to 7 p.m. The foundation will offer $500 worth of grant opportunities to nonprofits for donations made at the event.

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I am a mayoral candidate for the city of Columbia Falls. I served in the United States Army, received an honorable discharge and commendations including the Freedom Team Salute commendation for outstanding military service and many years of service in the American Legion.

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I am a mayoral candidate for the city of Columbia Falls. I served in the United States Army, received an honorable discharge and commendations including the Freedom Team Salute commendation for outstanding military service and many years of service in the American Legion.

Don't be a dinosaur; get yourself digitized

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I am a mayoral candidate for the city of Columbia Falls. I served in the United States Army, received an honorable discharge and commendations including the Freedom Team Salute commendation for outstanding military service and many years of service in the American Legion.

Small business suffers under Obamacare

Leading up to the passage of Obamacare, President Obama said, “If you like the plan you have, you can keep it. If you like the doctor you have, you can keep your doctor, too. The only changes you’ll see are falling costs as our reforms take hold.” Politifact determined this statement, said in 37 different variations by Obama, a “Pants on Fire” lie. The former President and his supporters promised that premiums would go down $2,500 for the average family, yet premiums have gone up several thousand dollars a year for millions of American families. Deductibles have also increased substantially in most cases. The failed logic of Obamacare was that if everyone had insurance, the uninsured would no longer use the emergency room for general care, charity care would be reduced dramatically and costs would decrease. Yet prices continue to grow faster than inflation. We seem to have just fueled the fire of health care costs.

Finding your inner 'baaaa'

Robin Goldberg, a placid, soft-spoken yoga instructor from Whitefish, sets down a towel and places a small piece of paper at the head of it.

Kalispell mom sets marathon world record with triple stroller

A Kalispell mother’s record-setting — and first — marathon run while pushing three children in a stroller is set to officially join the roster of Guinness World Records.

100-room hotel going up near Glacier Park International Airport

Construction on a 100-room, four-story hotel adjacent to Glacier Park International Airport is underway, and developers hope to complete the project by June of 2018.

Dogs in hot cars concern community

An individual reported to Kalispell Police three small dogs were allegedly locked in a gray Toyota van. The dogs were actively barking and had no water. The temperature was 88 degrees. The reporting party allegedly became very upset with the owner and an officer asked her to separate herself from the situation. The officer advised the owners of the heat and asked them to keep an eye on their dogs.

Ron W. Lyford, 86

Ron W. Lyford, 86, passed away in his home with his family surround him on March 8, 2017.

Daniel Roman Schellinger, 83

On July 5, 2017, with his children by his side, Daniel Roman Schellinger, 83, joined his beloved wife and other family members in heaven after complications from surgery. His smile, wit, and warm heart will be missed by so many people.

Evelyn A. Mooney, 78

Evelyn A. Mooney “went home to be with her Lord and Savior” on July 9, 2017.

Clayton Eldridge Fanslow, 91

Clayton Eldridge Fanslow, of Missoula, born Dec. 27, 1925, died July 7, 2017.

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'Ain't no sunshine' for this fair lass

I don’t do well in the sun. This is because my Nordic heritage makes me one step removed from being declared an albino. I don’t tan, never have. Instead I turn different shades of a hue I like to call fish-belly white.

Melvin 'Mel' Bunyea, 82

Melvin “Mel” Bunyea passed away at his home in Santa Maria, California, on July 9, 2017.

Clark-Dickenson fires shutout as Twins A trounce Lakers

Coby Clark-Dickenson had an unusually quiet day at the plate. He more than made up for it on the mound.

Reilly leads Eskimos over defending Grey Cup champs

EDMONTON, Alberta — Almost eight months after the Ottawa Redblacks ended the Edmonton Eskimos’ 2016 season, the Eskimos finally got — and took advantage of — an opportunity for revenge.

14 NW players set to compete in 71st East-West Shrine Game

The Daily Inter Lake

Fastest of the fast: Peltier races to Montana 200 pole

Owen Riddle was fast again, but not fast enough.

Twins take two from Loggers

LIBBY — In Wednesday’s American Legion baseball doubleheader against the Missoula Mavericks A, the Glacier Twins A cruised to an easy win in Game 1 before squeaking by in the nightcap.

Bigger Flathead cherry crop predicted this summer

Flathead cherry stands soon will be dotting the roadways along Flathead Lake. Early varieties such as the Vann are already being picked, while the main crop of cherries is still a couple of weeks away from harvest.

Hotshots work fires west of Kalispell

Hotshot crews on Friday worked to improve a fire line along the northern border of the 1,145-acre Lazier Creek 3 Fire burning west of Kalispell.

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Lakeside man makes Alford plea in rape case

A Lakeside man admitted July 13 by way of Alford plea to the statutory rape of a 15-year-old girl whom he allegedly met online and took to his trailer after meeting her in person.

Flathead air quality bounces from moderate to good

As wildfires continue to burn throughout Northwest Montana Friday afternoon, Flathead County’s air quality bounced from good and moderate and back throughout the day.

Friends, family say Kalispell first responder lived life with joy

The loss of a Kalispell woman who died Sunday in a motorcycle crash has devastated, not only the family she left behind, but also the community she served.

Super late model champs back for another Montana 200

Five former champions are back, some of the top drivers from the Flathead Valley are entered and a host of hopeful winners grace the super late model lineup for the 27th annual Coors Light Montana 200 auto race this weekend at Montana Raceway Park.

Former All-American joins Flathead football staff

Sean Blomquist’s relationships with Flathead head football coach Kyle Samson and defensive coordinator Matt Upham date back to Blomquist’s days as a prep tandout at Helena High. This fall, Blomquist will reunite with Samson and Upham and roam the sidelines alongside them.

Type 1 diabetic shows no signs of slowing down

Dustin Mitchell has always loved racing.

Parks to increase price for senior lifetime pass

For more than two decades, older Americans have been able spend $10 to access to the country’s national parks until the day they die. In August, the price for lifetime access will rise to $80.

Alleged dealer turns to door-to-door salesmanship

A woman allegedly knocked on a man’s door on U.S. 35 asking if he wanted to buy drugs.

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River Angelo Radatti, son of Dave and Kelly Radatti of Whitefish, was born Feb. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

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River Angelo Radatti, son of Dave and Kelly Radatti of Whitefish, was born Feb. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

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River Angelo Radatti, son of Dave and Kelly Radatti of Whitefish, was born Feb. 1 at North Valley Hospital.

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Thanks to the gentleman from Whitefish who so kindly explained the difference between a Democrat and a Republican (letter of June 18).

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Thanks to the gentleman from Whitefish who so kindly explained the difference between a Democrat and a Republican (letter of June 18).

Teens show bravery in scary incidents

Two separate incidents this week that could have ended badly were handled with amazing poise by two local teenagers who are worthy of recognition.

Grass fire in Col. Falls spreads into woods

A host of fire departments and a state Department of Natural Resources and Conservation helicopter were able to put out a fire near Columbia Falls before it burned any nearby homes Thursday afternoon.

C-Falls man faces fifth DUI charge after Zip-Trip crash

A Columbia Falls man appeared in court July 13 on his fourth and fifth DUI charges after he allegedly crossed U.S. 93 in June and drove his vehicle through the wall of a Zip Trip store in Kalispell while intoxicated.

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Montana senators respond to latest health-care bill

In the hours after the U.S. Senate released its latest attempt to wipe away the nation’s current health law, Montana’s senators stood where they had before: One undecided and the other adamantly opposed.

McConnell reveals new health bill; will his GOP support it?

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell released his new but still-reeling health care bill Thursday, bidding for conservative support by letting insurers sell low-cost, skimpy policies and reaching for moderates with added billions to combat opioid abuse and help states rein in consumers’ skyrocketing insurance costs.

Case of the suspicious treehouse sleepover

A Seventh Street West busybody who earlier called in a complaint about a barking dog, wanted Kalispell Police Department to know that after an officer left the residence, she allegedly heard a woman say “they are gone, you can come down now,” and a woman came out of a treehouse. The woman making the report found it suspicious “that someone would hide in a treehouse” when law enforcement was there. Turns out, it was just teenage girls having a sleepover in a treehouse. Mystery solved.

Myrtus Boon, 90

Myrtus Boon, born May 9, 1927, to John and Ella Hewitt in Polson, died at Immanuel Lutheran Home on the evening of July 5, 2017. Her children and one of her sisters had been with her all through the last week sharing memories and the sure hope of her real home in heaven.

Sandra J. Nordahl, 71

Sandra J. Nordahl, 71, passed away at home in Eureka on July 3, 2017.

Crews gain ground on Highway 2 wildfires

Crews are making progress on five separate wildfires burning along the Highway 2 corridor west of Kalispell.

Rock star's Whitefish home up for auction

The Whitefish vacation home of rock n’ roll hall of famer and E Street Band bassist Garry Tallent will be sold at a live auction July 18 with no reserve and no minimum bid.

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Paine named interim principal

Michele Paine was named interim principal for Flathead High School for the 2017-18 school year following a Kalispell Public Schools Board of Trustees meeting Tuesday.

C-Falls, Libby, Polson players to compete in softball classic

Columbia Falls, Libby and Polson will have players competing in the fourth annual Veterans Memorial Softball Classic on Aug. 4-5 at the Belgrade Softball Complex.

State Babe Ruth baseball tourneys in Whitefish, C-Falls

The Daily Inter Lake

Hospital selects clinical staff leader

A new leader will be the link between North Valley Hospital’s clinical staff and the people steering the Whitefish hospital’s future.

'Bird-lar' attempts rooftop break in

A resident of Hazel Place reported hearing noises on her roof. The woman told Whitefish Police officers she had a skylight on her roof and thought someone might be trying to break in after hearing about other alleged burglaries in the area. While on the phone, the woman took a second look and saw a bird on the roof making noise. Turns out she got her feathers ruffled for nothing.

Orville Lee 'Glen' Glendening, 88

Orville Lee “Glen” Glendening, 88, passed away July 10, 2017.

Abbie Delaney Jones, 35

“A new light glistens in the halls of Valhalla.” Abbie Delaney Jones (Lady Cocaine) “has joined the ranks of the Valkarie” at the young age of 35. She passed from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident on July 9, 2017.

Summer sizzle brings on fire season

And so it begins.

Glacier pulls back on plan to allow motor boats on Lake McDonald

Glacier National Park has retracted its announcement made yesterday that the park will fully? implement a third phase in its aquatic invasive species emergency response.?

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- Evergreen School board special meeting 7 a.m., administration boardroom.

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- Evergreen School board special meeting 7 a.m., administration boardroom.

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- Evergreen School board special meeting 7 a.m., administration boardroom.

Jail addition opens as temporary fix

A $1.64 million expansion of the Flathead County jail opened July 2, adding 40 beds to the chronically overcrowded adult detention center.

Blaze destroys home; dogs rescued

A Pioneer Road mobile home with some additions was considered a total loss after a fire broke out Tuesday afternoon, causing severe smoke and heat damage.

The Event to host Young Rider Championships

The Event at Rebecca Farms will have a new twist added to its slate of events this year.

State health insurers seek rate increases

Montana’s three major health insurance companies have asked to up their rates, according to the State Auditor’s office. The most recent requests come after Montana was hit with double-digit premium rate increases two years in a row, but fall below last year’s jump in price.

North Valley receives $150K for breast exam technology

A local family has donated $150,0000 to North Valley Hospital as part of an effort to help bring up-to-date breast screening technology to Whitefish.

Parents concerned about Hedges' preschool expansion

A group of about 10 concerned Hedges Elementary School parents and grandparents met with Kalispell Public Schools to voice concerns about the timing of plans to expand a federal grant-funded preschool program from one classroom to three this fall in a crowded school, when a new elementary school is being built and will open next year.

Glacier launches third phase of invasive species response

WEST GLACIER — Glacier National Park is implementing a third phase in its aquatic invasive species emergency response that will allow privately owned motorboats to launch on Lake McDonald following inspection and a 30-day quarantine.

Montana to begin processing untested rape kits

More than 1,000 kits holding possible evidence of sexual assault in Montana were never tested. State officials are working to see whether those untested kits hold answers as to how Montana should respond to future assault cases.

Wildfires continue to grow

Evacuations ordered near Bend Guard station

Caller udderly concerned about cow

Someone on Willow Glen Drive in Kalispell asked the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office to check on a cow with “super engorged udders,” thinking it hadn’t been milked in awhile.

Glacier sets new visitation record in June

June continues to be a record-breaking month in Glacier National Park, with visitation up 28 percent compared to this time last year.

Grant awarded to help Col. Falls' livability

The city of Columbia Falls and the Flathead Land Trust have received a $100,000 grant from the LOR Foundation to work collaboratively to enhance livability and build upon the strengths that makes the Columbia Falls community unique.

Kalispell woman killed in motorcycle accident

A South Kalispell firefighter is dead as a result of a motorcycle crash that occurred Sunday afternoon.

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Local students take trip to D.C.

Three students from the Flathead Valley were among a record-setting crowd of 1,800 students from 46 states who attended the annual Washington, D.C. Youth Tour hosted by the National Rural Electric Co-op Association.

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Andy Dunnigan makes his own name in music

Last name be damned, Andy Dunnigan was going to be a baseball player, and as a kid growing up in Whitefish it was going pretty well.

Women's Wrestling Vasquez captures Pan Am gold

The Daily Inter Lake

Residents near Rogers Mountain wildfire put on notice

Smoke from a wildfire east of Rogers Mountain, as well as several other wildfires in the area, could be seen in the sky across Northwest Montana by Sunday evening.

A SAILOR'S LIFE

Armed with a crew of eight, the Limerick, a Schock35 sailboat, left the dock of the Somers Yacht club and prepared to set sail in one of the season’s first races.

'Sushi gypsies' find a home

Indah Sushi, a popular Asian food truck, has staked out a permanent home on the outskirts of downtown Whitefish.

Center's renovation benefits many

Shining Mountains Center for Spiritual Living received an uplifting gift recently through Flathead Electric Cooperative’s Roundup for Safety Program.

Kalispell man convicted on burglary charge

A Kalispell man received a net sentence of 20 years in the Montana State Prison with five suspended July 6 following his conviction on a burglary charge.

Kalispell men arrested after alleged robbery, pursuit

A pair of Kalispell men allegedly robbed a North Kalispell business and later fled from an attempted traffic stop before being apprehended south of town Friday night.

Ruis continues development path in Columbia Falls

Developer Mick Ruis has proposed another redevelopment project in downtown Columbia Falls, this time a three-story, 18-unit apartment building on the site of the former Davall Building at the corner of Fifth Street and First Avenue West.

Beneath the surface

During a slow morning stroll through the spring-fed woodlands that border his farm near Creston, Steve Harvey recalls his first meeting years ago with Lew Weaver, who was then a new neighbor in the small agrarian community stretching along the eastern banks of the Flathead River.

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This is support for Whitefish city officials’ request to dismiss two county planning board members who used bigoted language in a May 10 meeting, making reference to “Whitefish Nazis.”

Whitefish Credit Union to build Col. Falls facility

Whitefish Credit Union will break ground Monday on a new facility at 405 Ninth St. W. in Columbia Falls.

Oil and national security

Keeping prices low puts pressure on our adversaries

The United States has imposed economic sanctions on Russia, Iran and North Korea. Unfortunately sanctions alone never get the job done (for example Saddam Hussein and the U.N. Oil for Food program). While current sanctions have caused some hardships, it has been the collapse in the price of oil since 2014 that has been a true limiting factor.

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The Inter Lake ran a feature titled “Estate and Pre-Planning Guide” on April 28. The feature laudably encouraged people of all ages to create a will, living will, and/or durable power of attorney. The feature was divided into two parts, e.g., Inventory Your Belongings and Health-Care Directives.

North Town opens whole new world

Growth has taken off in North Kalispell in a big way.

Did you know U.S. has long history of election tampering?

All the Democrats including Hillary and Obama, are outraged that Trump won the election and blame it all on the Russians for interfering. But did you know that Dov Levin, of Carnegie Mellon University, has recorded 81 times that the U.S. has influenced elections in other countries. He emphasizes that this count does not even include U.S.-backed coups. He further remarked that, during his research, he discovered the U.S. had been involved in meddling in other countries’ elections twice as often as Russia.

Nuclear madman: Is it Kim Jong-un or Trump?

I think everyone knows what Trump is going to do next. When intimidation fails, he intends to attack North Korea, possibly with “tactical” nuclear bombs.

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The Inter Lake ran a feature titled “Estate and Pre-Planning Guide” on April 28. The feature laudably encouraged people of all ages to create a will, living will, and/or durable power of attorney. The feature was divided into two parts, e.g., Inventory Your Belongings and Health-Care Directives.

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The Inter Lake ran a feature titled “Estate and Pre-Planning Guide” on April 28. The feature laudably encouraged people of all ages to create a will, living will, and/or durable power of attorney. The feature was divided into two parts, e.g., Inventory Your Belongings and Health-Care Directives.

Abortion-on-demand is destructive to women and society

I would like to thank Ms. Maria Hars for her penetrating, compassionate and incisive response to my opening of a “Dialogue on Abortion.”

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This is support for Whitefish city officials’ request to dismiss two county planning board members who used bigoted language in a May 10 meeting, making reference to “Whitefish Nazis.”

Lakers split Harp Tournament play on Day 2

Adam Joy provided the most productive at-bat of the night for the Kalispell Lakers A in Saturday’s American Legion baseball matchup with the Medicine Hat Knights.

Libby Loggers take 2 from Cranbrook; split with Bucs

Libby had its four-game winning streak halted on Saturday afternoon, dropping the first game of a Class A American Legion baseball doubleheader 4-2 at the Bitterroot Bucs.

Twins bounce back after 1st tourney loss

The Daily Inter Lake

On the fault line of news: Shaking it up with the internet

“Honey, are we having an earthquake?”

County to demolish moldy building at landfill

A decaying building in front of the Flathead County Landfill that once housed Fenders restaurant will be demolished, the county commissioners decided Wednesday.

Longtime educator writes children's guide to park

If Ellen Horowitz had to sum up her job titles they would include naturalist, writer and educator.

Fire danger jumps to high

A wave of hot, dry weather across the northwest region of Montana has pushed the fire danger rating to high.

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Driver distracted by topless pedestrian

A topless woman reportedly was seen walking down Montana 35. The reporting person told Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies he was unable to remember what color the woman’s shorts were but emphasized that she was “completely topless.” Deputies located the woman and gave her a ride to her address.

Officials warn boaters of tricky spot on North Fork

Rafters on the North Fork of the Flathead River have been getting wetter than expected while attempting to cross a hazardous rapid responsible for flipping multiple rafts so far this season.

Glacier lifts motor-boat ban for inholders

Glacier National Park has allowed some inholders to use motorized boats on Lake McDonald, park spokeswoman Lauren Alley confirmed Friday.

Lethbridge tops Twins 6-2 at Sapa-Johnsrud

WHITEFISH — The Glacier Twins A pitching staff didn’t issue an inordinate amount of walks in Friday night’s American Legion baseball game against the Lethbridge Spitz Elks AA.

Jacques' bat lifts Lakers in win

Clayton Jaques went 3 for 4 and drove in five runs to help the Kalispell Lakers rally past the North Central (Spokane) Indians 13-12 in opening-round play Friday of the Class A American Legion baseball John R. Harp Tournament at Griffin Field.

Twins zap Gonzaga

WHITEFISH — The Glacier Twins thought it would be tougher this weekend.

Samson looks back on Braves' Vandal visit

The old mantra goes, “Champions are made in the offseason.” Every coach preaches about hard work during the summer paying off in the fall. Over the years, with the science showing us new things in exercise regiments, those results have created bigger and faster athletes. Conditioning and getting the body ready in the summer, readies it for the long grind when the season comes around. I spoke to Flathead football coach Kyle Samson about how the offseason program is going.

Glacier Conservancy taps new director

After four years serving as the deputy director of the Montana Department of Commerce, Doug Mitchell is returning to the nonprofit sector as the new executive director of Glacier National Park Conservancy.

Superman arrested in case of mistaken identity

A man wearing a Superman shirt was reportedly found passed out on the ground of an empty lot by a passerby. A Flathead Sheriff’s deputy arrived to check on the man and discovered arrest warrants for a man with a different name whom he believed to be the same person. The possibly intoxicated Superman was arrested but quickly released once the deputy discovered he was neither the man he was searching for nor the hero he needed.

Burnell C. Larson, 72

Burnell C. Larson was born March 10, 1945, and passed away in Mesa, Arizona, on June 28, 2017.

Betty Rae (Nelson) Baldwin, 85

Please note: Funeral services for Betty Rae Baldwin have been moved to United Methodist Church, 1150 Wisconsin Ave., Whitefish, at 2 p.m. on Monday, July 10. Arrangements are by Order of Eastern Star and family.

Robert B. Walton, 88

Robert B. Walton, 88, “went to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” on July 4, 2017.

Venetta Ruth Kimbrell, 87

Venetta Ruth Kimbrell, 87, passed away July 2, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Woman charged in connection with murder files to dismiss case

The Kalispell woman charged in connection with the April murder of Anthony Andrew Walthers filed motions June 29 in Flathead District Court to dismiss her case and to suppress a statement.

Economic update takes a look at infrastructure

Infrastructure is the focus of the 12th annual economic update series that includes a presentation in Kalispell.

Riverside subdivision proposed near Bigfork

A 21-acre residential subdivision with Flathead River frontage near Bigfork is the focus of a public hearing July 12 before the Flathead County Planning Board.

Swan River Bridge agreement finalized

The Flathead County commissioners on Wednesday officially sealed the deal with the state Department of Transportation for a new one-lane bridge across the Swan River in Bigfork.

Kalispell approves new growth policy

After more than 60 meetings, work sessions and public hearings, the Kalispell Growth Policy will now reflect the most recent update, Plan It 2035, following its approval from Kalispell City Council on Monday evening.

Quake rouses slumbering residents

LINCOLN — An earthquake strong enough to rouse sleeping residents more than 100 miles from its epicenter struck Western Montana early Thursday.

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Viscosity's new 'Train Kid Cabaret' opens Sunday

The latest production from Viscosity Cabaret opens Sunday, July 9 and runs through the end of next month at the Great Northern Bar and Grill in Whitefish.

Native American kites will fly for Indian Days

Fourteen large kites made with original Native American art will be in Browning on Friday and Saturday for Indian Days. The spectacular kite collection, painted by artists representing 10 native nations, will be on display Friday and will be flown for the Browning community on Saturday. These flying pieces of art just returned from Dieppe, France, where they were viewed by half a million people at the prestigious Dieppe Kite Festival.

Montana Tap House kicks off new festival series

Whitefish’s Montana Tap House will host a weekly outdoor market with live music, food vendors, a beer garden and more, every Wednesday through Aug. 23.

Pops for the People

A night at the orchestra, dignified, respectful and proper, is a symbol of prosperity in certain circles — a sign that you’re enjoying the finer things in life. And that, says longtime Glacier Symphony director John Zoltek, is just fine most of the time, but even he and his fellow classical devotees love to let their hair down every now and again.

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Monthly Whitefish Gallery Night returns tonight

The monthly Whitefish Gallery Night returns tonight from 6 to 9 p.m., with featured art exhibitions, entertainment and refreshments at 11 downtown galleries. All events are free and open to the public and continue on the first Thursday of each month through Oct. 5. More information and a complete listing of supporting galleries is available at

Crown Foundation scholarship winners announced

The Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation has awarded 12 full-ride scholarships to Northwest Montana guitarists to attend the eighth annual Crown Guitar Workshop and Festival in Bigfork.

Behind the curtain: ATP's co-founder talks 'Life: The Broadway Experience'

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Earthquake and aftershocks rattle Western Montana

LINCOLN — An earthquake strong enough to rouse sleeping residents more than 100 miles from its epicenter struck Western Montana early Thursday.

Large earthquake strikes near Lincoln, Montana

A magnitude 5.8 earthquake rocked Western Montana Thursday morning shortly after midnight and was felt as far north as Calgary, Alberta, as far south as Boise, Idaho, and as far east as Billings.

Officer faces fireworks head-on

A resident of Fifth Avenue West reportedly threw fireworks into the road as a Kalispell Police officer was passing. The officer said he did not believe the fireworks were aimed at him and let the shooters off with a warning.

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Meeting postponed for KGEZ tower request

A Flathead County Board of Adjustment meeting scheduled July 11 to consider a proposal to relocate KGEZ’s radio towers to the West Valley and a formal appeal of the proposal, has been rescheduled for Aug. 1.

Coalition looks for common ground in Kootenai Forest

The shadow of a six-seater jet traced the Kootenai National Forest as Kristin Smith pointed to where wildfires once bordered her town, to places she hoped would remain wild, and to acres her community hoped to use as a resource.

Lightning-caused fire in Kootenai at 35 acres

Wildfire crews are tending to a lightning-sparked wildfire on the Kootenai National Forest that has grown to about 35 acres.

Authorities ID man who fell in Flathead River

Authorities have identified the body recovered June 27 from the Flathead River near Polson about 10 miles down river from Buffalo Bridge.

Big crowd creates parade parking problem

Tuesday’s Independence Day parade in downtown Bigfork drew a record-breaking crowd, and with it a parking problem.

Florida man dies in jet ski accident on Flathead Lake

A Florida man is dead after falling off a jet ski in the Finley Point area of Flathead Lake on Monday evening, authorities report.

Loggers take two from Lakers A

LIBBY — The Libby Loggers exploded for 18 runs in Game 2 of a doubleheader to finish off a sweep of the Kalispell Lakers A on Monday night.

Rogue fireworks ignite tempers

Whitefish Police received a call about two men fighting in an alley on Kalispell Avenue after sparks from rogue fireworks allegedly started a garbage bin on fire. The fire was put out and so were the flaring tempers.

William Ross Epperly, 79

On June 29, 2017 William Ross Epperly passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his loving family. “Papa” Bill died as he lived with great character and compassion. Pancreatic Cancer was his battle these past several months eventually succumbing to the disease after being diagnosed in late February.

Kenneth Ernest Knutson, 91

Kenneth Ernest Knutson, 91, of Columbia Falls passed peacefully on June 30, 2017 at Kalispell Regional Hospital surrounded by his family after an injury and a long battle with Alzheimer’s and cancer.

Dustin James Hassler, 39

Dustin James Hassler, 39, passed away peacefully Thursday, June 29, 2017 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center surrounded by family and friends.

Bigfork man pleads not guilty to stalking

A Bigfork man returned to Flathead District Court last week to deny a new charge of stalking after he allegedly left a woman numerous threatening voice-mail messages.

Echo Lake water level continues to rise

A rising water level at Echo Lake has Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials watching the shoreline with the expectation that water will spill onto the causeway road, potentially harming the shore and structures bordering the lake.

Flathead beer to be showcased at Canadian event

Flathead Valley craft brews will be among the Montana-made beer that will be highlighted at a post-Independence Day celebration hosted by the U.S. Consul General in Calgary on Thursday.

Flathead native on front line of saving porpoise

There are fewer than 30 of the world’s smallest porpoise left in the Gulf of California. As the vaquita, a small, shy marine mammal with cartoon-like facial features, slips ever closer to extinction, Flathead Valley native Barbara Taylor is hoping for a miracle.

May leaves track, Minnesota to play football for Bobcats

The urge to play football won out in the end.

UK native Lee enjoys 'excellent time' in Whitefish, on the links

WHITEFISH ­— The annual Whitefish Lake Golf Club’s 4th of July Tournament is known partly for its return players, many of whom hail from the Flathead Valley or other parts of Montana and enjoy spending a week golfing in Whitefish.

PHOTO GALLERY: Fourth of July parade in Bigfork

Thousands of spectators lined downtown Bigfork on Tuesday afternoon for the annual Fourth of July parade.

Fire danger ramps up as heat bears down

Hot, dry weather in the Flathead has triggered more human-caused ignitions than typical this time of year, according to state officials. And the weather conditions causing the danger are expected to continue throughout the week.

Man denies knife assault on family member

A Columbia Falls man has denied allegations that he assaulted and injured a family member with a knife before allegedly leading officers on a manhunt in May.

New facility specializes in memory care

The number of Montana’s aging residents exceeds national projections — and Flathead County surpasses the state. Last week, Immanuel Lutheran Communities opened its door to an assisted-living memory-support facility called The Lodge — its latest effort to help fill a hole in services for seniors.

Kalispell man's converted bus gloriously touts Old Glory's colors

If you see a red, white and blue school bus driving around town, chances are Jeff Messick is at the wheel.

Man who died in Polson crash identified

Authorities have identified the man killed in a car crash Saturday on Kerr Dam Road near Polson.

A drive to succeed: 21-year-old is biz whiz

By MARY CLOUD TAYLOR

Kalispell City Council to vote on growth policy update

The final draft of the Kalispell Growth Policy Update, Plan It 2035, will go before Kalispell City Council tonight for a vote.

Fair-Mont-Egan principal opts out of contract

Search underway for new official, as interim principal’s contract has expired

Fair-Mont-Egan School is looking for a new principal.

Polson man dies in high-speed crash

A 39-year-old man is dead after a vehicle accident near Polson Saturday night, Montana Highway Patrol officials say.

Many Glacier mama moose

Visitors to Glacier National Park on Saturday had to share the scenery with a mother moose and baby that decided to go for a stroll along Swiftcurrent Lake. The two were out on the lake grazing and then headed for the north shore of the lake, passing in front of Many Glacier Hotel. (Photo by Patrick Booth/Mystic Creek Studios)

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Yes, being the president is hard work, but for plutocrats there are profitably fun times, too. For instance, you are able to submit to your friends in the Congress a tax plan that would be nicely helpful to yourself.

For the Fourth of July, let's have some common sense

In the course of human events it is necessary, now and again, to renew our commitment to the principles and practices that made our country great in the first place.

Trump, Gianforte lowered the bar, but we don't have to follow them

To borrow the words of Maya Angelou: “When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.”

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Yes, being the president is hard work, but for plutocrats there are profitably fun times, too. For instance, you are able to submit to your friends in the Congress a tax plan that would be nicely helpful to yourself.

Do we still believe in free speech?

Just until we disagree, some experts say

After a century of building free-speech rights into our laws and culture, Americans are backing away from one of the country’s defining principles.

Baseball Lakers AA in title round; Twins take 2 from Loggers

PULLMAN, Wash. — Torin Bowden tripled and drove in three runs and Sam Elliott pitched five strong innings as the Kalispell Lakers topped the Twin City Titans 10-4 on Saturday morning at the Palouse Summer Series American Legion baseball tournament.

Flathead loses a coaching legend - Bill Epperly

The Daily Inter Lake

4th of July Tournament Moore edges Johnston in playoff

By EVAN MCCULLERS

'Witch hunt' tried to take down another president in the 1950s

What a difference 65 years makes — NOT!

HomeGoods, Harbor Freight Tools coming to Kalispell

Commercial and residential growth continues at a frenetic pace in North Kalispell, where HomeGoods and Harbor Freight Tools are among the newest businesses popping up.

How to be cool - or not

Let’s face it. After a certain point in every person’s life, it’s difficult to be “cool.” In a newsroom full of 20-somethings these days, I am reminded daily that I am one of the oldest people on the staff still pounding out stories.

Property reappraisal appeals have 30-day deadline

The clock is ticking for property owners who want to protest the property appraisals sent out recently by the Montana Department of Revenue.

Town Center next bastion of growth for Kalispell

Local business leaders stood atop a rise overlooking the construction of a new $8.4 million Ford dealership this week and saw the future of Kalispell.

Mass timber company plans for future growth in Montana

Cross-laminated timber manufacturers, mass timber experts and lumber enthusiasts gathered in Columbia Falls last week for the 2017 Mass Timber Rising Tour and Workshop.

Early Independence Day celebrations halted

A caller reported that two people were shooting a gun and that it appeared they had shot a pistol up in the air. Kalispell Police officers determined that the men were lighting off minor fireworks and advised them of the fireworks ordinance.

LaDona Monk

A memorial service for LaDona Monk, 93, who died Jan. 22, will be held at 1 p.m. Wednesday, July 12, at Johnson-Gloschat Funeral Home in Kalispell.

Michelle Lee Fey

A celebration of life for Michelle Lee Fey, 45, who died Oct. 19, 2016, will be held at noon, Saturday, July 8, at the Village Greens Clubhouse in Kalispell.

Robert T. Orsua

A celebration of life barbecue for “Captain Bob” Robert T. Orsua, 65, who died Feb. 20, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 8, at the house of Sherman and Patti Quiram, 183 Creston Road in Creston.

Harlan 'Hoss' Horstman, 69

Harlan “Hoss” Horstman, 69, of Bigfork, died June 23, 2017, at HealthCenter Northwest in Kalispell.

Henry 'Hank' John Voorhees, 88

Henry “Hank” John Voorhees, 88, died on June 24, 2017, in Kalispell.

Stephen M. Waite, 70

Steve Waite passed away on June 28, 2017, at home in Lakeside, after a long battle with cancer.

Robert Edward Milam, 76

Robert Edward Milam, 76, passed quietly in his sleep on Oct. 14, 2016, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, after a four-year battle with lung cancer.

Wayne Francis Couture, 82

Wayne Francis Couture, 82, died Wednesday, June 21, 2017, at his home at Dog (Rainbow) Lake, Montana.