Ellington

Oldest wild bear in the world dies

Group to appeal ruling on Big Mtn. Jesus statue

Feds will pay Montana mineral leasing money

Dog rescued after man sets his home on fire

A 40-year-old Kalispell man was arrested on two outstanding warrants and on charges relating to his alleged attempt to burn his home down on Aug. 27.

Obama issues Labor Day proclamation

President Barack Obama issued the following proclamation about Labor Day at the White House on Aug. 30.

Developers withdraw Second Street proposal

The developers of a controversial large-scale apartment and condo project proposed for East Second Street have pulled their application with the city.  

Storm-driven algae blamed for Lake Koocanusa fish kill

At least 10,000 juvenile kokanee were killed in Lake Koocanusa after a strong and fast-moving storm hit the reservoir on Aug. 25.

Speaking out for American labor

In July, almost 250 workers from eight states gathered in Butte to attend a labor school. They came to learn, and to teach, how to lift the voices of working people and rebuild the middle class.

Horse Sense: Horse trainer Tom Curtin teaches clinic in Bigfork

Tom Curtin has heard plenty of stories that started with “All of a sudden.”

Editor's Note: looking for a few great dads

A family sprawled out on the dock one recent Sunday at McGregor Lake, eyeing the water below.

Crown Guitar Festival brings great music to Bigfork

 The Crown of the Continent Guitar Workshop and Festival is bringing great music to Bigfork this week.

Work on Sportsman's Bridge underway soon

A narrow two-lane bridge built over the Flathead River in 1955 is up for replacement.

Stormwater Advisory Committee disbands, asks county to create new district

Maybe the second time will be the charm for a Rural Special Improvement District in Bigfork. Sue Hanson hopes so.

Three new fires in the Bob Marshall Wilderness

Three small fires were recently detected in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. Meanwhile, more than half a dozen lightning-caused fires continue to burn in the Bob, with some growing slowly and others not showing much change.

Clayton Long

Clayton Leonard Long, 59, of Kalispell died Aug. 25, 2013, following a long battle with liver disease.

Hot summer weather brings out lake leeches

Recent sightings of leeches in Whitefish Lake have some residents concerned, but Whitefish Lake Institute director Mike Koopal says leeches are common in our local waters.

BNSF pumps millions into Montana rails

BNSF Railway plans to invest about $115 million this year on maintenance and rail capacity expansion projects in Montana. Work is already underway in the Whitefish and Glacier National Park corridor.

Police calls: Resident told 'Your bomb is ready'

Big Mountain Jesus statue decision appealed

A Wisconsin-based atheist group is appealing a federal judge’s ruling that allowed a statue of Jesus to remain on Big Mountain.

Little Free Library boxes placed around town

The Whitefish Community Library is taking its books to the people. The library has set up mini library boxes around town that are meant to encourage reading.

Bulldog soccer ready for new challenges

New challenges face the Whitefish boys soccer team this fall.

Ramsey subdivision plat extended for third time

A two-year plat extension for a proposed subdivision on Ramsey Avenue was approved last week by Whitefish City Council, marking the third extension granted for the project.

Praise for highway construction workers

I am one of the Site Managers at the Whitefish Community Center and would like to PRAISE the employees that have been working so hard Constructing the new road, bridge and sidewalks. They all have been so kind and tolerant of the traffic and still get their work done. What they have completed so far looks so nice. When it is all finished it will be such a wonderful improvement. A great big THANK YOU to all of them for their patience and hard work.

Canadian Nordic team dominates fun run

Members of the Canadian national Nordic ski team dominated the annual Whitefish Friends and Family Fun Run last weekend in Whitefish.

Annexation will hurt Whitefish Lake

While the Pilot headline story about the city’s plans to annex 70 properties along Whitefish Lake stated that it was for lakeshore preservation, this move, if carried out, will ensure the opposite effect.  

Definition of an architect

I would like to comment on a recent article in which the title architect was used to describe a person who is not a licensed architect.

Dog park seeks funding for new pond

The Whitefish Animal Group (WAG), in conjunction with the City of Whitefish, is currently in the process developing a wonderful new water feature for dogs at The Hugh Rogers WAG Park.

Study says symphony has major economic impact

An independent report reveals that Glacier Symphony and Chorale provides more than $1.27 million dollars per year and 51 jobs to local economy.

Fires burning across the Bob wilderness

More than half a dozen lightning-caused fires continue to burn in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. The largest, the Red Shale Fire on the Rocky Front, was first reported by the Beartop Lookout on July 18.

Anglers asked to give trout a break during hot weather

With hot summer weather heating up Montana’s rivers and streams, Montana Trout Unlimited is urging fishermen to give trout a break.

School budget OK'd with slight decrease in tax bill

The Whitefish School Board approved Aug. 13 the district’s 2013-14 budget that shows a slight increase from the previous year.

$36.3 million city budget approved

Whitefish’s fiscal year 2014 budget includes a slight reduction in the tax rate, pay raises for city workers and funding to hire a few new employees, all while increasing the projected year-end cash balance.

U.S. has no moral standing to condemn Assad

Whether or not Syrian dictator Bashar al-Assad used chemical weapons, President Obama has no legitimate grounds to intervene.

Obama speaks at Lincoln Memorial

The following remarks were made by President Barack Obama at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., on Aug. 28 at the “Let Freedom Ring” ceremony commemorating the 50th anniversary of the March On Washington.

Copperhead: A worthy effort featuring local talent

I was privileged to watch Monday’s showing of Copperhead at the Bigfork Children’s Theatre.

Glacier Park fall season schedule

Operating hours for many visitor services including campgrounds, concessions, boat inspections, and backcountry permits in Glacier National Park will begin to change after Labor Day weekend.

Judith Louise Bury Grady

Judith Louise Bury Grady, 77, passed away peacefully from complications due to Alzheimer’s disease on Aug. 20, 2013, at Expressions Memory Care Home.

Lady Dogs bring versatility to soccer pitch

The Lady Bulldog soccer team brings confidence, versatility and depth to the pitch this season.

Woods Bay icon: Whitefish native buys tipi building, upgrade plans are in the works

Everyone who has driven through Woods Bay has seen it. The iconic tipi has likely attracted passersby for as long as it’s been in existence.

Bandit Bar closed by temporary restraining order

The Bandit Bar closed last week after the owner’s wife obtained a temporary restraining order against her husband. The bar, on Nucleus Avenue, is billed as the oldest bar in Columbia Falls.

C-Falls harriers have plenty of youth this year

Cats settling into Schweikert system

Kats boast solid squad of returning players

Boys soccer team looks sharper, focused

Long-term fix eyed for Park's oldest road

Logan Pass researchers tracking goats - and humans

Recycling options hashed out at county workshop

City council rejects zone change

Rep. Steve Daines visits growing Habitat neighborhood

BNSF Railway to invest in more track work

Montana loses $1.2 million in Forest Service money

Scout working on River's Edge Park boardwalk

Peacocks shine at Whitefish race

Golfers give it a go at Whitefish tourney

Le Grizz race registration

Elite response

Big thanks

Job well done

Russell Erickson

Car and air show in Bigfork on Sunday

Dragon Boats returning to the Flathead

Wilderness fires update

Two wilderness fires continue growing

Appeals court rules on Montana firearms act

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals has issued a ruling in a case that challenged federal authority over firearms manufactured in Montana for use in Montana.

Setting a new standard: Bigfork Middle School could do away with letter grades

It might not be easy, but Matt Jensen believes it’s worth it.

Improvements planned at Blanchard Lake

A significant upgrade is proposed for the parking lot and boat launch at Blanchard Lake due to increased use.

City tackles stormwater projects

Whitefish City Council unanimously approved Aug. 5 two contracts with separate firms for engineering work on stormwater projects in the city.

Noisy intrusion

On behalf of my parents, I recently attended Glacier National Park’s alumni picnic. It was a great opportunity for past GNP employees to reminisce and get an update on current Park issues.

Vietnam traveling memorial stops in Whitefish

The Wall That Heals traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial will make a stop in Whitefish Aug. 22-25 at the Grouse Mountain fields.

No decision on 2nd Street apartment project

The developers presented their plan in detail, dozens of neighbors had their say, and still no decision was made on the controversial proposal for a large-scale apartment and condo project on East Second Street.

Bulldogs enter football season with high expectations

Bigger, faster, stronger. The Bulldog football team is looking like it could make some noise this season in the wide open Northwestern A conference.

Knaff and Kingery to marry

Chresten Michael Knaff and Tiffany Nichole Kingery along with their parents, Michael and Nancy Knaff, of Lakeside, and Chuck and Tami Kingery, of Columbia Falls, announce their engagement.

Police chase ends with wreck on temporary bridge

A Whitefish man was apprehended and arrested Monday afternoon after wrecking a stolen 1994 Jeep Cherokee on the temporary Second Street bridge and fleeing from Whitefish Police officers in pursuit.

Whitefish teen releases debut album 'Different'

Music was Meta LeCompte’s only friend when she first moved from Iowa to Montana midway through her seventh grade school year. Naturally shy, she turned to her guitar for companionship.

District short on TIF funds to cover overages

The Whitefish School Board Aug. 13 approved suspending its tax increment financing fund policy for one year to allocate money to the Whitefish High School building project. However, the TIF fund is not anticipated to have enough money in 2013-14 to cover the expected $267,000 overage in the construction budget.

Peipers celebrate 50 years

Barb and Hank Peiper celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary.

Back to school: New teachers, construction update, WMS nut policy

Summer is nearly over and students will soon be heading back into the classroom with Whitefish School District’s first day of school set for Wednesday, Aug. 28.

Jeanette Mary (Christensen) Mortensen

Jeanette Mary (Christensen) Mortensen, 93, passed away peacefully at her home in Whitefish on Aug. 11, 2013. She was born on May 18,1920 in Hancock, Wisc., to Ira and Esther (Briggs) Christensen.

24-hour bike race to benefit disabled

A mountain bike race set for later this month will challenge solo riders or teams of two to push their physical limits and make as many laps as possible in 24 hours on a tough course at Herron Park in Kalispell.

Arthur T. Houlihan, Jr.

Arthur T. Houlihan, Jr., a one-time resident of Whitefish, died on June 18, 2013 in Bonita Springs, Fla.

Police calls: Cyclist chased by three naked men

No clear favorites in Northwest conference

The Northwestern A conference is shaping up to be competitive again this fall, but there are no clear favorites.

New look uniforms for Bulldogs

The Bulldog football team will take to the turf this season with a fresh look.

Work ethic helps Casey Brown establish Hollywood career; film premieres in NW Montana

In his job as a Hollywood actor Casey Brown does a lot of sitting around, compared to the work ethic instilled in him at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse Children’s Theatre and Alpine Theatre Project in Whitefish.

Setting new standards: Bigfork Middle School proposes standards-based grades

It might not be easy, but Matt Jensen believes it’s worth it.

Men escape, but house destroyed in fire

Two men in their 20s escaped a house fire in the early morning hours of Wednesday, Aug. 21, but the home at 286 Third Avenue West North in Columbia Falls was a complete loss.

Preserving access: Public lake access on Holt Drive secured with new land survey

Protecting public access to Flathead Lake by Holt Drive in Bigfork is officially underway.

25,000 years of glacier history

Good weather boosts Park visitor numbers

GPI to ask for second look at bid

New 911 center director hired

Estonian book sellers defamed by fearful locals

Coram rooster a crowing champ

Tilda Green

Tilda “Tillie” Lydia (Ost) Green, 83, passed away June 30, 2013, at home.

Raymond Sanford Jr.

Raymond Lee Sanford Jr., 74, passed away on Friday, Aug. 16, 2013, at his home in Sulphur Springs, Texas.

Delete the Fed

Who should run the Federal Reserve System when chairman Ben Bernanke’s term expires next year: Vice chairwoman Janet Yellen or former Obama adviser Lawrence Summers? Neither. Who then? No one.

Fish for supper

A few weeks ago, I committed a sacrilege, at least to some people. No, I didn’t go the Vatican and read aloud from the collected works of Martin Luther. And I certainly didn’t sit in the wrong section of the annual Cat-Griz football game.

The land we manage for you

Montana has much to offer. We have abundant wildlife, clean water with lots of fish, and a slower pace of life that has disappeared elsewhere.

Tilda Lydia (Ost) Green

Tille passed away on June 30, 2013 at home at the age of 83. Tillie was born in 1930 in Zap, N.D., to Christ and Emma Ost.

Being there matters: The case for a strong Navy

When I graduated from Columbia Falls High School and joined the Navy, I anticipated a four-year commitment. Twenty-one years later, I still serve, as do 1,424 other Montanans who are in the Navy or Navy Reserves.   

Fire crews jump on fire above Lakeside

Fire crews responded hard and fast to a forest fire spotted above Lakeside, south of Kalispell, on Sunday, Aug. 19. The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Paul Reynolds

Doreen Smith-Szpak

Proposed fishing regs are aimed at hybrids in North Fork

FVCC students to build a Habitat townhome

Outdoor news

Forest road closure

Damnation Fire grows quickly in the Bob

The Flathead National Forest reported last week that fire managers were managing four new fires along the South Fork of the Flathead River in the Bob Marshall Wilderness area. All are believed to have been started by lightning strikes on Aug. 11.

BNSF plans $115M capital program in Montana

BNSF Railway plans to invest about $115 million this year on maintenance and rail capacity expansion projects in Montana.

Council to consider controversial apartment project

A controversial proposal for a large-scale apartment and condo project on East Second Street will go before Whitefish City Council on Monday, Aug. 19.

Four new fires burning in the wilderness

The Flathead National Forest reported Aug. 16 that fire managers were managing four new fires on the Spotted Bear Ranger District in the Bob Marshall Wilderness area. All are believed to have been started by lightning strikes on Aug. 11 and will be allowed to play their natural role in the wilderness.

Montana Supreme Court upholds reappraisal system

In an Aug. 6 ruling, the Montana Supreme Court upheld the state’s six-year property reappraisal system.

Glacier Park employees reunion

Two years ago, Glacier National Park celebrated its 100th anniversary, and what an awesome Park it is. Glacier is “the Switzerland of America.” It is “the Crown of the Continent.”

Stage 1 fire restrictions in place at NW state parks

Montana State Parks announced Aug. 15 that state parks in the Northwestern Montana Fire Zone Area will be under Stage 1 fire restrictions, effective Friday, Aug. 16, at 12:01 a.m.

Big Sky and Moonlight Basin ski resorts to merge

The owners of Big Sky Resort and the Yellowstone Club are planning to buy Moonlight Basin with the aim of combining operations to create a giant resort of more than 5,700 skiable acres.

Tribe says Chief Mountain leases were canceled weeks ago

The Blackfeet Tribal Council announced in a press release last week that it had canceled oil and gas leases near Chief Mountain weeks ago. The council said the leases were canceled July 24 “due to non-payment by the company.”

Park Conservancy hires new CEO

Deaf crew member enriches MCC experience

Lion Lake drowning incident was unfortunate

After reading D. Birks’ comments in the July 31 Hungry Horse News about the drowning at Lion Lake on July 28, I feel the need to clear up some of the questions he asked. D. Birks was absolutely right on with what was observed and heard on scene.

Wildlife comes first, photographers second

Reading the article about Glacier National Park’s wildlife viewing regulations in the last issue of the Hungry Horse News left me a bit agitated. The first reaction from many people seems to be “what about me.”

Homer Bruce

Homer Alexander “Al” Bruce, 64, passed away Aug. 13, 2013, in Hungry Horse.

Timber sale planned near Upper Whitefish Lake

A timber sale on the Stillwater State Forest 25 miles north of Whitefish is proposed to harvest up to 6 million board feet of lumber from 3,600 acres of state trust lands.

City plans to annex nearly 70 properties

Efforts are underway to annex a number of properties into the city. Properties being considered are wholly surrounded by Whitefish city limits or have city utility connections.

Young grizzly relocated from Whitefish Range to Cabinets

A young grizzly bear captured in the Coal Creek area of the Whitefish Range was relocated last week to the Cabinet Mountains as part of an ongoing effort to boost the grizzly bear population in that area.

Police calls: Shotgun-wielding camper walking to town

Breaking the gridlock

Last month, Chuck Roady, vice president and general manager of F.H. Stoltz Land and Lumber Co., a family-owned sawmill that has been operating in northwest Montana for more than 100 years, traveled to Washington, D.C., to share with the powers that be what its like to run a mill in Montana.

Glacier Park Inc. out as park concessioner

Glacier National Park’s longtime concessioner will be replaced starting next year.

Former Whitefish man to lead Missoula County Fairgrounds

Whitefish’s former director of parks and recreation has been hired as the new director of the Missoula County Fairgrounds.

Kaare Martin Hitland

A well lived life has come to an end.

Sun Road paving begins at Avalanche Creek

Paving began this week on the Going-to-the-Sun Road between Avalanche Creek and Logan Creek, on the west side of the park. Visitors can expect delays of 20 minutes.

City waives impact fees for the Wave

The Wave fitness center will be reimbursed some of the impact fees it was required to pay the city as a result of its current expansion.

No parking zones added at City Beach, Riverside Park

The City of Whitefish plans to close two separate areas previously used for parking due to safety concerns. One is located near City Beach and the other is along Baker Avenue next to Riverside Park.

Big dreams for small brewery

Graham Hart has held a dream for the last several years to open his own nanobrewery. It’s a dream he’s on track to complete by the end of the year, but he’s looking for a little support from the community to make the last push to open Bonsai Brewing Project.

Whitefish Lake Golf Club Championship results

Men’s Results

Jean M. Michaud

Jean M. Michaud, 71, a resident of Battle Lake, Minn., went to be with the Lord on Aug. 9, 2013, surrounded by her family.

Whitefish Lake Swim results

Swimmers from across the valley took on rough conditions at the annual Whitefish Lake Swim on Aug. 11. The one-mile route took racers in a loop beginning and ending at City Beach. Water temperature was about 68 degrees.

Cheers goes to the Morminos

Paulette and Michael Mormino primarily volunteer at North Valley Hospital. About three years ago they retired from their jobs in California and moved to Whitefish.

Glacier Park Inc. loses contract at Glacier National Park

The National Park Service has selected Xanterra Parks & Resorts, Inc. (Xanterra) to provide a variety of visitor services in Glacier National Park for the next 16 years.

Bigfork High school sports dates

Bigfork Eagle

Woman pleads not guilty to embezzling from Glacier Bank

A former Glacier Bank employee has pleaded not guilty to theft by embezzlement after allegedly taking $3,100 from the business.

Ferndale man arrested after neighborhood disturbance

A Ferndale man has been arrested after breaking into his neighbor’s home last Friday night.

North Lake county planning efforts continue

The North Lake County Planning and Zoning Committee is a volunteer organization developed with the purpose of generating a community oriented set of regulations to help guide development in North Lake County.  The committee is composed of volunteers from Montana Department of Natural Resources, Plum Creek Timber Company, and Stoltze Land and Lumber Company. Organized in 2006 under the Bigfork Steering Committee, the committee began coordination directly with Lake County Planning Department in 2009, and since has been an independent committee. The committee has developed a draft set of regulations and advisory board bylaws. Both have been delivered for review to Lake County planning.  Since 2012 the committee has worked with the planning department on the development of a map to accompany the regulations. The committee has conducted more than 10 community meetings since 2006 in Ferndale, Swan Lake, Bigfork and Woods Bay. There have been more than 60 newspaper articles and notices of monthly meetings.  In April 2009 the committee reached out to the community with a written survey contacting more than 1,500 respondents within the planning area.  The committee intends to fulfill a promise for a final community meeting on the draft regulations, and will do so as soon as the Lake County Planning Department is able to provide a detailed map of the area. For information go to bigforksteering.org or call 837-1102.

Elmer Sprunger art featured in Glacier Park benefit

Three Rivers Bank is spearheading a fundraiser for the Glacier National Park Conservancy with a memorial tribute to Bigfork artist Elmer Sprunger.

Bigfork actor Casey Brown showcases Copperhead movie Aug. 26

Bigfork actor Casey Brown will be in Bigfork Aug. 26 for the premiere of Copperhead, a Civil War film that he appeared in along with Peter Fonda and Billy Campbell.

Bigfork Museum art talks start this week

Alpine Artisans will exhibit at the Bigfork Museum of Art opening Aug. 16 with an artists’ reception from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.  

Divine Bovines at Bigfork Museum fundraiser

The Bigfork Museum of Art and History will host a pitchfork fondue fundraiser at Brookies Cookies Aug. 16.

Rotary Hoedown Sunday

The Bigfork Rotary Club’s annual Hoedown is this Sunday at BruMar Estates in Ferndale.

Bigfork PTA in final push to complete playground purchase

The Bigfork Parent Teachers Association is on a final push to raise money for playground equipment at Bigfork elementary and middle schools.

Stop-and-frisk: How government creates problems, then makes them worse

Two recent law-enforcement decisions illustrate yet again that when government sets out to solve a problem it created, things get much worse.

Wave Ryders place in state long course meet

Baucus champions the North Fork

Park's wildlife viewing regs causing concerns

City could take over Vets Wall at Marantette

City budget does not call for tax increase

Community news

Commissioned painting to help Canyon bike path

Fair energy policy essential to Montana's future

Businessmen and women around the world depend on stable and affordable energy to conduct their daily lives. Although this is no new concept, it is one that is too often painfully taken for granted.

2nd Street Apartments - You could be next

On Monday, Aug. 19, the Whitefish City Council will vote whether or not to approve a massive rental complex at Second Street and Armory Road. With 153 units, this project will dump, at a minimum, over 1,100 extra car trips per day on Second Street, right where our kids play ball and walk to school.

Xanterra wins Glacier Park concession contract

Glacier Park Inc. has been outbid for the primary concessions contract in Glacier National Park. The National Park Service announced Aug. 13 that it has chosen Xanterra Parks & Resorts, Inc. to run the major lodges and operate the red bus fleet in the Park for the next 16 years.

Comprehensive immigration reform is pro-growth and pro-agriculture

Earlier this year, the U.S. Senate passed a commonsense immigration reform measure in a strongly bipartisan fashion. This was an important step in the right direction — especially for producers, farm workers and rural communities.

Overwhelming support

This month, the Glacier All-Stars 15Us wrapped up their time representing Montana Babe Ruth at the Pacific Northwest Regionals. For three years, the Flathead Valley has wrapped their hearts around this team and shown overwhelming support as we traveled to regionals across Washington and Oregon. A simple thank you is not enough — please know your assistance will never be forgotten.

Flathead homes 'very affordable' now

Young girl killed in wreck near Olney

A 6-year-old Canadian girl died Sunday in a head-on collision near Olney that injured four other people, including the girl’s mother and two brothers, and left U.S. 93 closed for more than three hours.

Bulldog fall sports begin this week

Fall sports practices at Whitefish High School start up this week.

Woman sentenced for Social Security theft

Council says Kalispell doesn't understand 911 issues

Co-op and Northwest utilities concerned about river treaty

Commends national parks for safety

Once again, I had the great privilege to visit many of our magnificent Western parks. I have visited them all my life and even worked many summers in the best of them, but this summer I was more impressed than ever with the responsibility that each superintendent has for the safety of their great numbers of visitors.

North Fork Landowners Association is elitist

Hungry Horse News columnist Larry Wilson often ends his column by asking, “What do you think?”

Whitefish businesses make 'best places to work' list

Two Whitefish businesses have been named to “Outside” magazine’s annual list of

Chief Mountain drilling leases come as big surprise

Rising Sun reopens to hard-side campers

Glacier National Park’s Rising Sun Campground reopened to hard-side camping only on Saturday, Aug. 10.

Obama talks about domestic spying programs

The following remarks about classified surveillance programs were made by President Barack Obama during a press conference in the White House on Friday, Aug. 9.

Free entertainment at the fair

Several free concerts and dance demonstrations will take place throughout the fair in addition to the main concerts in the grandstands. Here is a tentative schedule:

Timber collaborators

It didn’t take Rep. Steve Danes long to adopt the ways of the typical Washington politician. He wears many hats, trying to be everything to everyone.

Joyce Turvey

Joyce Marie Clarke Turvey, 84, passed away Aug. 6, 2013.

Ag secretary promotes America's farmers markets

Over the first week of August, local markets across the country celebrated National Farmers Market Week. Farmers markets are an important part of America’s diverse agriculture sector, providing unique benefits to communities across our nation.

Subdivision next to Meadow Lake resurrected

New speed limit proposed for Swan highway

The nighttime speed limit of 55 could be going away for Montana Highway 83.

Flathead water compact is being misrepresented

A July 31, 2013, column in the Flathead Beacon by Dave Skinner makes important historical observations and states key facts about the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT). He did a good job — except he evidently failed to read the proposed compact. He merely restated inaccurate information he heard others bantering about as fact. Below is a brief breakdown explaining how some of these restated facts are simply wrong.

Are Montana fish in hot water?

Drought and heat are stressing trout

Feds indict six administers of mental health project

Po’ka Project was intended to help troubled Blackfeet children

Lower Sun Road paving to start week of Aug. 12

Contractors will begin paving the Going-to-the-Sun Road between Avalanche and Logan creeks in Glacier National Park beginning the week of Aug. 12, Park officials announced Aug. 8.

Man arrested after pointing a gun at his daughter

Young grizzly relocated to the Cabinets

A 3-year-old sub-adult male grizzly bear captured in Coal Creek in the Whitefish Range has been relocated by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks to the Cabinet Range to augment grizzly bear populations there.

Canyon bike path history

During the mid-1970s, a citizens group in and around West Glacier nearly succeeded in causing a bike and horse path to be constructed between Hungry Horse and Glacier National Park.

Look out Wyoming - you're next

First, the Doughnut. Next, Wyoming!

Lending a hand to a tourist in need

My father is 91, needs a cane, but gets around OK and is usually still mentally pretty sharp. He recently went on a Road Scholar (formerly Elderhostel) week-long tour of Glacier Park.

Keep river open to motorized boats

Keep river open to motorized boats

Plaintiffs argue 'secret' doughnut meetings violated state law

Plaintiffs in the lawsuit against Whitefish over control of the planning “doughnut” around the city continue to argue that the city held illegal “secret” meetings regarding doughnut litigation.

Local artist, outdoorsman Dick Idol enters outdoors hall of fame

Dick Idol was at a crossroads in life when he chose the path toward Alaska.

Summer trolley funding cut, Ice Den over budget

A few items that were part of Whitefish’s original 2014 preliminary budget document have been removed.

Summer update from Sen. Brown

While most of the state’s population is enjoying the sunny weather and finding a cool place to put their feet up, many legislators are still attending meetings. The interim committees have been formed to do the people’s work while out of the regular session.

Police calls: Taxi driver puts on light show dance party

Open house to disucss 93 West corridor plan

The city of Whitefish will host an open house to discuss the U.S. 93 West corridor plan on Tuesday, Aug. 20.

Support the dog park

The past month or so I have become a semi-regular, or I should say, my three dogs and I have become semi-regulars at the WAG dog park. I’ve always appreciated that it was a great place as I drive by daily on my way to or from my home, and just like seeing all the different dogs and people enjoying themselves.

Weed of the week: Leafy Spurge

Leafy spurge is a Category 1 noxious weed. This native of Eurasia was brought to the U.S. in the early 1800s. Infestations are common along waterways. This plant emerges early in the spring and quickly out competes its neighbors. Its deep taproots can exceed 20 feet, while its lateral roots spread out and displace desirable plants. Leafy spurge also produces a prolific amount of seeds. Stems of leafy spurge are 1-3 feet tall and have alternate, narrow, 1-4 inch long simple leaves. The flowers grow in small, yellowish green clusters surrounded by heart-shaped yellow bracts. Both the stems and the leaves contain a white, milky sap. The flowers are yellowish-green, small and arranged in many small clusters containing 7-10 flowers. Leafy spurge is difficult to control. Do not hand pull. Pop off buds, flowers and seed head. Bag these and remove. Be sure to wear gloves. Cutting and mowing are ineffective. Herbicides, biological control and grazing by sheep and goats will help control this hardy weed.

City considers lowering taxes or increasing reserves

The city of Whitefish’s preliminary budget is looking better than expected as more numbers are finalized.

Marilyn Simis McQuiston

Marilyn Simis McQuiston

In Memoriam: Barbara Elvy Strate

“Don’t cry for me for I will be,

On Patrol: Sheriff's office patrols lake

Sunday morning dawned a beautiful summer day. The temperature was only supposed to rise to the low 70s. It was sunny and a time to hit the lake ... with the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office lake patrol.

Letter to the Editor: Against increased speeds on Swan highway

The Montana Department of Transportation has proposed to increase the nighttime speed limit on Highway 83 through the Clearwater and Swan valleys.

One Step Closer: FWP land purchase could preserve part of north shore puzzle

In the movie “Charlie Wilson’s War,” small children are shown suffering in Afghanistan refugee camps, their arms and limbs amputated by roadside bombs left by Soviet soldiers.

The U.S. empire provokes terrorism

Perhaps we’ll never know if intercepted chatter between al-Qaeda leaders — which prompted the U.S. government to close dozens of diplomatic missions in the Muslim world and to issue a worldwide travel alert — was serious or not. But mischief shouldn’t be ruled out.

Robert Lundgren

A celebration of life for Robert Lundgren is planned for Sunday, Aug. 11 from 2-5 p.m. at the Ridgetop Pavilion at the Glacier Outdoor Center in West Glacier.

Samuel Harvey Fine

It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Samuel Harvey Fine, 64, on July 26, 2013 at his home in Calgary. Harvey was born Jan. 20, 1949 in Turner Valley, Alberta.

C-Falls swimmers sixth at state

Fatigue is No. 1 cause for lost hikers in backcountry

A true peace park during World War II

Council candidate wants to 'get Moore for your money'

School teacher throws hat in ring for C-Falls city council

The golden years at Kintla Lake

Ev Lundgren remembered by family, friends, community

Friends, family and the better part of the West Glacier community came together last week to remember Everett Lundgren.

Recycled ski lift for Flower Point arrives from Canada

Construction of the new Flower Point chair lift at Whitefish Mountain Resort is underway and on schedule to be completed by the 2014-15 winter.

School news

Doctoral graduate

Work on schedule for new Big Mtn. chairlift

Construction work for the new Flower Point chairlift at Whitefish Mountain Resort has started and is on schedule to be completed in time for the 2014-2015 winter ski season.

Dora Stewart

Baucus heads up the North Fork

Greg Weimer

Greg Weimer, 51, passed away Aug. 2, 2013, in a motor vehicle accident.

Thanks to Don

Political change

Thanks for support

Local Babe Ruth teams break even at regional tourney

Local secular humanist group gets new leader

Meth user's deferred sentence revoked

Tester, Baucus, promote forest bills in Senate

Rising Sun closes to trap bears

Mudslides, flooding hit Whitefish during rainstorm

A potent rain storm Friday led to numerous mudslides around Whitefish Lake and caused a massive breach in a private pond off Big Mountain Road that sent a wall of water toward Les Mason State Park.

Hill to compete at Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo

West Glacier pro bull rider Beau Hill will be back at the Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo on Aug. 14-18 hoping to pull off another big win for the hometown crowd. Last summer, Beau scored 91 on a bull named Whiskey Jack.

Three local men plead not guilty to child porn charges

Why not just abolish the NSA?

Notice that all the public discussion about the National Security Administration’s supersecret, massive surveillance scheme assumes that the NSA has become a permanent part of American life. The debate revolves around what restrictions, if any, should be placed on the NSA’s authority to spy on people.

BPA announces higher power rates

Man identified in Hwy 40 fatal crash

A 51-year-old Columbia Falls man died in a one-vehicle crash around 2:40 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 2.

Oil explosion, coal train study, turn focus on railroads

Two recent events have renewed public interest in oil and coal shipments by BNSF Railway and other companies across Montana.

Lowell Eckelberry

Lowell “Eck” Carter Eckelberry, 67, of Columbia Falls passed away at the Montana Veterans Home on July 16, 2013, after a courageous battle with cancer.  

2,600-acre timber sale proposed up the North Fork

A proposed state timber sale on the Stillwater State Forest about 25 miles north of Columbia Falls calls for harvesting up to 6 million board feet of lumber from 2,600 acres of state trust land.

Boat launch and campground on reservoir reopen

The Riverside Boat Launch and the Murray Bay Campground, on the east side of the Hungry Horse Reservoir, reopened to the public on Aug. 2.

Timber sale proposed near Stryker

A proposed timber sale on the Stillwater State Forest about 4 miles northeast of Stryker would harvest up to 6 million board feet of lumber from state trust land.

$3.3 million in funding for U.S. 2 bridge

Flood advisory issued for Sun Road

The National Weather Service has issued a flood advisory for The Loop area of the Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier Park. The advisory is in effect until late Friday morning.

Best of Bigfork results

Aa voted in the Bigfork Eagle online poll,  here are the results of the 2013 Best of Bigfork reader poll:

Reforms needed to protect forests, strengthen Montana's timber industry

Montana once boasted a strong timber industry that helped maintain healthy forests, supported local jobs and provided a steady revenue stream for our counties and schools.

How to help fast-food workers

Doubling the minimum wage may seem like a good way to help fast-food workers, but it would hurt them instead. So what should we do? We must sweep away the government-created barriers to income earning, barriers that protect established businesses from competition and rob the most vulnerable people of options.

Festival Amadeus returns to Whitefish for sixth year

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale will host its sixth annual Festival Amadeus in Whitefish on Aug. 4-10. The weeklong celebration will showcase eight distinguished guest soloists and the Festival Amadeus Orchestra in seven nights of chamber and orchestra concerts.