Ellington

Revamped Bigfork retreat center proposed

Board of Adjustment hearing is Tuesday

Whitefish hearing outlines parking structure rules

As the city of Whitefish makes the final preparations to open its new City Hall and parking garage this month, the City Council tonight will hold a public hearing to establish parking restrictions for the new facility.

Community shares input for 5-year plan

At the last of five input sessions for Montana West Economic Development’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, dozens showed up to share their ideas for the new five-year plan.

Taxpayers to get a break after sale of school bonds

Following the recent sale of school building bonds that will fund $54 million in construction within Kalispell Public Schools, taxpayers can expect to pay less than initially estimated during the October 2016 election.

Business Improvement District to get new board

The new Downtown Business Improvement District (BID) will have a new board following Monday’s Kalispell City Council meeting.

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It’s called “follow the money.”

U.S. Constitution is America's greatest creation

It was May 1, 1957, the heart of the Cold War. Troops, tanks and missiles paraded down Red Square in Moscow, a show of military might that continues annually.

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I am writing today to express my concern with the Flathead County commissioners’ possible approval of Glacier Park Inc.’s proposed RV park in West Glacier, as is, which has been sent to them by the county planning board for approval.

Don't go south on North Shore deal

The North Shore Ranch, a beautiful, 367-acre tract of open space along Flathead Lake that once was eyed for residential development, has been a thorn in the county’s side for many years.

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I am writing today to express my concern with the Flathead County commissioners’ possible approval of Glacier Park Inc.’s proposed RV park in West Glacier, as is, which has been sent to them by the county planning board for approval.

No headline

It’s called “follow the money.”

Special election letters

First I wish to say I do not vote. My vote has never counted because I’m poor, white, and unfortunately, an American — that’s right, I hate America because of rich politicians who have controlled this world for far too long.

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I am writing today to express my concern with the Flathead County commissioners’ possible approval of Glacier Park Inc.’s proposed RV park in West Glacier, as is, which has been sent to them by the county planning board for approval.

No headline

It’s called “follow the money.”

Trump hands monumental task to Zinke

On Wednesday, President Trump signed yet another executive order, and like most of them it was based on the concept of reining in government overreach — and as usual, his critics were howling mad.

Glacier Twins lose 5-2, 6-1 to Senators

HELENA — Glacier struggled offensively against Helena pitching as the AA Senators took an American Legion baseball doubleheader from the A Twins on Saturday, 5-2 and 6-1.

Bigfork girls sweep singles play in tennis duals

RONAN — The Bigfork girls were 6-0 in singles play to best Ronan and Valley Christian by 3-0 scores in Class B tennis dual action on Saturday.

Flathead, Glacier swept in Capital City softball

HELENA — Flathead had trouble in the early innings against Helena Capital and Helena High, falling in both ends of a Western AA softball doubleheader on Saturday.

Black and Blue muscle past Mud Dogs, 40-10

The Kalispell Black and Blue rugby team (4-0) continued its dominant season, remaining undefeated after a 40-10 home victory over the Missoula Mud Dogs on Saturday morning at Evergreen Junior High.

Glacier sweeps A.R.M. Invite

The Daily Inter Lake

Lakes and Valdes

Lucie Davis of Kalispell and Mike Lakes of Coram announce the engagement of their daughter, Molly Kay Lakes, to Stephen Ian Valdez, the son of Raymond and Evelyn Valdez of Ogden, Utah.

Schmautz and Paya

Alan and Joyce Schmautz of Kalispell announce the engagement of their daughter, Kadyn Schmautz, to Julien Paya, son of Jean-Pierre and Eliane Paya of Valence, France.

Driver 'an accident waiting to happen'

A driver going down Ninth Street West reportedly cut off another vehicle, nearly clipping it, before running a red light. The caller told Columbia Falls Police that the vehicle was also traveling over the speed limit. The caller was reportedly unsure whether the driver was “on her cellphone or on drugs,” but stated “she’s an accident waiting to happen.”

New bake shop a sweet addition to Whitefish

Whitney Brien remembers baking cookies with her family every year around Christmastime. They would have a ‘cookie day’ — an entire day to bake for their friends and family.

William 'Bill' Nickel, 60

William “Bill” Nickel, 60, passed away from a heart condition Thursday, April 20, 2017.

Nancy P. Burns, 61

Nancy P. Burns, 61, of Columbia Falls, passed away on Friday, April 14, in her home.

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Applications for the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce’s leadership development program, Leadership Flathead, are due to leadershipflathead@kalispellchamber.com by 5 p.m. on May 1.

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Applications for the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce’s leadership development program, Leadership Flathead, are due to leadershipflathead@kalispellchamber.com by 5 p.m. on May 1.

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Applications for the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce’s leadership development program, Leadership Flathead, are due to leadershipflathead@kalispellchamber.com by 5 p.m. on May 1.

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TODay

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TODay

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TODay

Karas: FVCC success shaped by community input

The leader of Flathead Valley Community College stood before the Montana Legislature on a recent spring day and asked for approval of the school’s most recent project: operating a brew house and — possibly — a tap room on campus.

Walks on the wild side

From scintillating citizen science to leisurely wildflower walks, nonprofit organizations are providing a plethora of guided spring and summer outdoor opportunities for the public — no need to wait for an excuse to leave your chores for another day.

Whitefish embarks on Depot Park improvements

Changes are afoot in Whitefish’s Depot Park as the city begins the first round of improvements outlined in the Depot Park Master Plan.

Evergreen homicide victim identified

Authorities have identified the victim of an alleged homicide at the Old Steel Bridge in Evergreen as 34-year-old Anthony Andrew Walthers, a transient from the Kalispell area.

Catherine 'Cathy' Ann Bonham Brenneman, 59

Catherine “Cathy” Ann Bonham Brenneman died peacefully of natural causes at 11:40 p.m. on April 13, 2017, after a long and joyous life, surrounded by loved ones and music. She was 59 years old.

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ARM track attracts 14 teams from four classes

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ARM track attracts 14 teams from four classes

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ARM track attracts 14 teams from four classes

Fryberger's solo homer in 7th lifts Polson over Hamilton, 4-3

FRENCHTOWN —Polson senior Hannah Fryberger ripped a line-drive home run in the top of the seventh inning to lift the Pirates to a 4-3 win over Hamilton at the Frenchtown Invitational softball tournament on Friday, handing the Broncs their first loss of the season.

Johnston cards 69 for medalist honors at Libby

LIBBY — Ryggs Johnston of Libby shot a 69 for a seven-shot victory over Dylan Beckman of Thompson Falls at the Cabinet View Invitational golf tournament on Friday.

Netters tune-up for Bitteroot Invite

The Daily Inter Lake

Knife-wielding, shirtless man seen around town

A man reported leaving his house to find a shirtless man sitting in his car parked in his driveway, according to a Flathead County Sheriff’s report. When the owner confronted him, the shirtless man allegedly got out of the car holding a knife and got into his own truck, which was also parked in the man’s driveway, and drove away.

A sensory experience

For the past eight weeks, children at the Discovery Developmental Center in Kalispell have painted music, danced like color dropped in water and manipulated materials with artist-in-residence Lindsay Martin.

District begins discussion on redrawing school boundaries

Kalispell Public Schools is moving forward in discussions on redistricting, in preparation of building a new elementary school south of town on Airport Road located southeast of the Ashley Park Subdivision.

Scores of legislative bills die as session ends

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Abortion, the death penalty, guns and the very essence of personhood. Some of the legislative session's most contentious bills seemed doomed from the start, some killed with a stroke of the governor's veto pen while others perished by legislative action or inaction.

Budget, fuel tax, other policy changes highlight session

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The 2017 Montana legislative session that ended Friday was dominated by debates over infrastructure and how to tighten the budget, but it also included bills to make significant changes in tax policy, health care, energy, campaign finance and other areas.

No deal: Infrastructure negotiations collapse

HELENA — Dozens of Montana schools that were counting on state funding to replace crumbling roofs and old boilers are out of luck. The same goes for rural areas looking to upgrade their aging water systems and colleges and universities that planned to expand or renovate buildings on their campuses.

Feet of new snow ups avalanche danger

The Flathead Avalanche Center issued a special avalanche warning Friday after nearly 2 feet of new snow accumulated in the mountains of Northwest Montana.

2 transients arrested in Evergreen homicide

Two suspects have been identified, arrested and charged in the homicide of a man who went over the Old Steel Bridge in Evergreen into the Flathead River and drowned Wednesday night.

Bigfork girls beat Ronan, Superior 2-1 in duals

RONAN — Ronan and Bigfork tied 2-2 in boys Class B dual tennis action on Thursday while the Bigfork girls claimed 2-1 victories over Superior and Ronan.

Mary Elizabeth Wilhelm, 91

Mary Elizabeth Wilhelm passed away at home with her family by her side April 20, 2017.

Donald L. Fry, 89

Donald L. Fry, 89, was born June 4, 1927, in Kalispell and passed away April 20, 2017, in Whitefish.

Leo Edward Mullen, 96

Mr. Leo Edward Mullen passed away Tuesday evening, April 25, 2017, in The Springs at Butte.

Joyce Willard Keniston, 82

Joyce Willard Keniston, 82, passed away peacefully on April 23, 2017, “to be with her husband Richard.” Joyce was surrounded by her family and her loyal companion “Sheeba” at Hillside Manor in Missoula, after a long battle with cancer.

Daniel Edward Youreman, 80

Daniel Edward Youreman, 80, passed away Wednesday, April 12, 2017, at Genesis in Whitefish, due to cancer.

Kevin Victor Allison, 56

Kevin Victor Allison, 56, died April 20, 2017 in Kalispell, of a heart attack.

Kalispell enlists citizens to help save city trees

The 30-year anniversary of Kalispell’s title of Tree City USA came with some bad news for the future of the city’s urban forest.

Drug take-back day is April 29

Nearly 700 Montanans died of prescription opioid poisoning between 2000 and 2015, according to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

Final suspect convicted in Echo Lake murder case

The final of four people charged in the drug-charged murder of 35-year-old Wade Rautio admitted on April 27 by way of no contest to the part he played in the killing.

Legislature OKs new rules for medical marijuana providers

HELENA — The Montana Legislature has approved sweeping changes to the state’s medical marijuana industry, passing a heavily amended bill on Tuesday in response to the ballot initiative passed by voters last November.

School election mail-in ballots due May 2

Voters living in school districts holding mail-ballot elections are reminded that ballots are due by 8 p.m. May 2.

North Valley Hospital selects new CEO

For the first time in about a year, North Valley Hospital has secured a new full-time leader.

Local-option sales tax fails in Senate

HELENA — Montana’s resort towns could have bumped their local sales taxes up to 4 percent under a proposal that lasted about 24 hours in the Legislature before its apparent demise on Thursday.

Man who disappeared in river considered to be homicide victim

The disappearance of a man in the Flathead River near the Old Steel Bridge Wednesday night is being considered a homicide by the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Crown of the Continent Choir taking stage in Whitefish

The Crown of the Continent Choir and Headwaters Ensemble, under the direction of Craig Hodges, will perform “Music of the Spheres, Song and Image in Harmony” in a fundraising event Saturday, May 13 at Whitefish’s O’Shaughnessy Center.

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The 37th annual spring production for the Northwest Ballet School and Co. is “Beautiful at the Ballet,” coming Mother’s Day weekend to the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Group to screen human trafficking doc at Red Lion

Kalispell’s Red Lion Hotel will show a documentary about human trafficking, “I Am Jane Doe,” Thursday at 7 p.m.

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Conrad Mansion opens for summer season on May 17

Kalispell’s historic Conrad Mansion begins its regular tour schedule next month, with tours running every hour from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Retiring Ron Bond to lead Columbia Falls Community Choir one last time next week

The Columbia Falls Community Choir will perform for one final time under the direction of Ron Bond as part of a “May Music Spectacular” Wednesday, May 3 at Flathead High School, taking the stage alongside the Flathead Valley Community Band.

'Alice in Wonderland'

Glacier High School’s Wolfpack Theatre Co. will take a tumble down the rabbit hole May 4 and 5 with the children’s classic “Alice in Wonderland.”

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Gov. Bullock, please do not sign a bill to tax the owners of hybrid and electric cars. I purchased my first Prius 17 years ago for the following reasons: 1) to keep from polluting the atmosphere. 2) To quit guzzling a natural resource. 3) To reduce traffic noise. 4) To cut down my expenses.

Work continues to bolster Evergreen bluff

Stabilization work on a slump-prone bluff near Village Greens golf community in Evergreen will resume this spring, but further slumping just north of the project area has forced one homeowner to move his house off the property.

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FVCC sets Mother's Day sale; opens student-created art show

Flathead Valley Community College’s Art Department will host an art show opening and awards ceremony Tuesday, May 2 at 4 p.m. in the gallery on the lower level of the Arts and Technology building.

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The 37th annual spring production for the Northwest Ballet School and Co. is “Beautiful at the Ballet,” coming Mother’s Day weekend to the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

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Gov. Bullock, please do not sign a bill to tax the owners of hybrid and electric cars. I purchased my first Prius 17 years ago for the following reasons: 1) to keep from polluting the atmosphere. 2) To quit guzzling a natural resource. 3) To reduce traffic noise. 4) To cut down my expenses.

Stillwater Christian play puts 'Murder' in black and white

Stillwater Christian School’s theater department will be performing in nothing but shades of gray during “The Musical Comedy Murders of 1940” this weekend at the Bigfork Center for Performing Arts.

Wet weather washes out softball, track

Rain has washed out a host of events this spring in the Flathead Valley and will wipe out a few more today.

River searched after man goes over bridge

Authorities conducted a search of the Flathead River Wednesday evening after a man reportedly went over the Old Steel Bridge in Evergreen and fell into the river.

Libby woman convicted in puppy mill case

A Libby woman has been convicted of multiple counts of animal cruelty after authorities shut down a puppy mill on her property in Libby and seized more than 120 animals.

Doctor rescued by ALERT to share story at banquet

Ground ambulance responders held the electrocardiogram results into the light as they stood over their patient on a ridge near Lakeside. From his fetal position on the ground, Tony Young could see the image of his heart’s electrical activity making waves across the sheet.

Kalispell to attempt burpee world record

The first weekend of May each year for the past four years has brought an influx of people to the Flathead Valley as they prepare to complete the Spartan Race, but this year, now the fifth year of the Spartan Race in Bigfork, also brings with it the chance to break a Guinness World Record.

Puppy dead of gunshot wound

Someone allegedly shot a puppy, according to a report by the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. According to the reporting person, the pup showed up at his residence and died shortly after from its injuries.

Ruth Vera Wentworth, 93

Ruth Vera Wentworth, 93, passed away April 24, 2017, with family, at her home.

Daniel Edward Youreman, 80

Daniel Edward Youreman, 80, passed away Wednesday, April12, 2017, at Genesis in Whitefish, due to cancer.

Terry Kevin Davis, 59

Terry Kevin Davis, born Jan. 22, 1958, in Ottumwa, Iowa, passed peacefully at home on April 25, 2017, surrounded by his loving family. Since the age of 2 he battled diabetes and many complications that followed. Those who knew him, who were many, loved his good nature and caring ways.

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When did it become OK to “dis” a person who, as a young man, started with nothing and went on to create multi-million dollar technology businesses that eventually have employed hundreds in our state?

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When did it become OK to “dis” a person who, as a young man, started with nothing and went on to create multi-million dollar technology businesses that eventually have employed hundreds in our state?

Anita Ellis, 87

Anita Ellis, a longtime resident of Bigfork, passed away on April 9, 2017. She was 87 years old.

Trump wants a review of national monuments

WASHINGTON (AP) — Slamming what he called “a massive federal land grab,” President Donald Trump signed an executive order Wednesday directing his interior secretary to review the designation of dozens of national monuments on federal lands.

It's about time, NFL

It’s been more than 80 days since the NFL held a game.

School projects await infrastructure vote

HELENA ­— Nearly $2 million in state-funded upgrades to Kalispell’s public schools still hangs in the balance as negotiations over a major infrastructure initiative have yet to yield a compromise during the waning days of the 2017 Legislature.

More than 50 inches of water in mountain snowpack

The higher elevations of Northwest Montana can expect another round of winter-like weather this week, adding to a mountain snowpack that remains well above average for this time of year.

Man denies assault with lawn ornament

A Kalispell man is dening accusations that he beat his partner with a lawn ornament.

Agriculture teacher wins award

Brian Bay approaches teaching with laughter, joy and grace.

Jane Lopp, 73

Jane Lopp passed away Friday, April 21, 2017, at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle as a result of traumatic injuries sustained in a car accident on the 18th. She was 73.

Janice 'Jane' Smith Barnes, 92

Jane Smith Barnes died peacefully on Sunday, April 23, 2017, at North Valley Hospital. She was 92 years old. 

C.B. McNeil, 80

C.B. McNeil, 80, of Polson, passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017, in Polson after a brief illness.

Columbia Falls mulls snow removal options

Spring is in the air, but the city of Columbia Falls will turn its attention to snow removal at a public hearing on May 1.

Glacier ranked among top schools in nation

Glacier High School is ranked fourth among the top high schools in the state and in the top 10 percent nationally according to the U.S. News and World Report 2017 Best High Schools.

Libby bats trounce Troy

TROY — Libby scored nine runs in the first inning and continued to pile on, topping Troy 27-3 in a Western B-C conference game on Tuesday.

Class C stars duel at Top 8 Meet

EUREKA — There was a showdown between two of the best athletes in Class C on Tuesday at the Top Eight meet.

Glacier sets top marks at Top 10

The Daily Inter Lake

Bigfork's Stodghill wins in Seeley Lake

SEELEY LAKE — Bigfork’s Colton Stodghill shot a 5-over-par 77 to pick up medalist honors at the Seeley-Swan Invitational on Tuesday at Double Arrow Lodge.

Tenacious civic leader Jane Lopp dies

Longtime Kalispell businesswoman and consummate community leader Jane Lopp died Friday at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle from injuries sustained in an April 18 vehicle accident in Kalispell. She was 73.

Eureka lawmaker reflects on final term in Legislature

HELENA — Chatting in the first-floor lobby of the Montana State Capitol earlier this week, Mike Cuffe was interrupted every 30 seconds or so by a bipartisan procession of lawmakers, slapping him on the back or shaking his hand and offering congratulations.

Kalispell man pleads not guilty to assault with a weapon charges in road-rage incident

A Kalispell man on April 20 denied accusations that he chased two people who were on an all-terrain vehicle in his pickup, threatening them with a handgun.

Convicted rapist back in court after parole violations

The 32-year suspended sentence of a rapist convicted in 2007 was revoked on April 20 following multiple reports of parole violations.

Students inducted into Spanish, French honor societies

Twenty-nine Glacier High School students were inducted into the national Spanish and French honor societies Monday.

Montana Air Medical Alliance takes to the skies

An alliance that began in the summer of 2016 has recently formalized and named its commitment to combining the efforts of Northwest Montana’s air ambulances, just as new federal laws have begun imposing strict new regulations on helicopter equipment.

Trial begins in intimidation case

The trial of a man charged with sending a threatening letter to various law enforcement agencies began Monday, April 24.

Forum to help people understand trends in teen behavior

From drug and alcohol use to the latest trends in social media, STOP Underage Drinking in the Flathead Coalition wants to share the power of positive influence parents, guardians and grandparents have on teenagers in a public forum Wednesday.

Donald Vance Peterson, 66

Donald Vance Peterson passed from this earth on the 22nd day of April, 2017. He died from heart and arterial disease. His passing was peaceful.

Aaron Paul Quade, 76

Aaron Paul Quade, 76, of Kalispell, passed away surrounded by his family on April 21, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

C.B. McNeil, 80

C.B. McNeil, 80, of Polson, passed away on Thursday, April 20, 2017, in Polson after a brief illness.

Libby High School students earn top honors

Libby High School sophomore Justin Brewer and junior Sabra Hancock are taking care of business.

The 'Godfather of girls track' led FVCC's trailblazing Mountainettes to championship

Neil Eliason may be the “Godfather of girls track” but the soft-spoken coaching legend didn’t earn the nickname the way the other dons did. This godfather ruled without an iron fist.

Full moon spotted in Whitefish

Three possible transients were reportedly seen showing off their rear ends to passing motorists on Central Avenue. The three men were asked by Whitefish Police to move along before their cabooses caused a collision.

Deadline to apply for energy bill assistance is approaching

NorthWestern Energy is reminding its customers that the deadline to apply for financial help with energy bills through the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is April 30.

Kalispell City Council to discuss impact fees

A work session has been scheduled for Monday, April 24 during which the Kalispell City Council plans to have a general discussion of the city’s impact fees.

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So even though our Helena legislators ignored the wisdom and experience of our county election administrators, you can still vote without going to the polls May 25.

Homegrown museum is window to Whitefish's past

Every now and then Jill Evans gets a phone call that goes something like this:

Election selection

n Letters pouring in with advice on how to vote

Rob Quist supports American workers, for more jobs and higher pay. In the last election, the Democrats proposed to create 10 million jobs through an infrastructure program (fixing highways, airports, sewage plants, etc.). This would be paid for by taxes on the billionaires and the top 1 percent, with lower taxes for the middle class. This is how to do it.

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So even though our Helena legislators ignored the wisdom and experience of our county election administrators, you can still vote without going to the polls May 25.

Working together for solutions on public lands

Working together locally counteracts the divisiveness that is splintering our nation and communities. Too many Americans are allowing pride, principles and politics to distract from the reality that we actually have a lot of common ground together. Reaching out to someone who does not agree with us takes courage and curiosity. Like many Montanans before us, we choose to respectfully sit down together and do the tough work to discover a path forward.

Breaking down barriers to fair housing

There’s no better place to live, work, and play than Montana. Building a successful life here starts with having an affordable and accessible place to call home. Still, for many Montanans finding a stable home can come with barriers. We know families are encountering rising housing costs, a low supply of affordable apartments, and housing choice barriers. Every day our teams here at the Montana Department of Commerce are working to break down these barriers and make access to safe housing affordable and accessible.

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So even though our Helena legislators ignored the wisdom and experience of our county election administrators, you can still vote without going to the polls May 25.

Support ALERT and save lives

Every year around this time the Flathead Valley turns its attention to the ALERT air ambulance service, which stages its annual fundraising banquet in April. The event — planned April 29 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds — is vital to keeping the service up and running. It’s also a good reminder of how important ALERT has been since it was launched in 1975.

Stand up to bullies who try to halt free speech

All who cherish free expression, especially on campuses, must combat the growing zeal for censorship.

FVCC's Mountainettes dominated on hardwood, too

Their male counterparts may have come and gone in a flash, but for Mike Persha and the Flathead Valley Community College women’s basketball team, what was supposed to be a one-year favor for a friend turned into a seven-year run of sustained success that helped spark the sport’s growth in the Treasure State.

Mother-daughter team takes over Montana-made store

The Think Local shop on Main Street in Kalispell is now under new ownership with a new name. The mother-daughter team of Misty Minnehan and Corri Kuhlin recently purchased the store they renamed Montana Marie.

Glacier visitor spending tops $250M

Hundreds of millions of dollars was funneled into the local economy last year as Glacier National Park set yet another high mark for visitation, according to new numbers from the National Park Service. Visitors to Glacier Park spent a record-breaking $250.8 million locally, a more than 25 percent increase over the previous year.

Men's basketball: One year and out, but what a year!

Years before he would hone his craft under a future hall of fame coach, convince a Texan with a funky name to study in Laramie, Wyoming, and turn the men’s basketball team at that state’s flagship university from perennial punching bag to NCAA Tournament darlings, Jim Brandenburg was finished with coaching.

William L. Smithson, 87

“When I was a little girl and didn’t want to go to sleep, my Daddy and I would play a game called Who Loved Who More. I love you bigger, I would say and he would respond, I love you wider. I love you taller, I love you deeper. Well, Dad, I guess I win this round because I will love you longer,” his daughter Misty Lane said.

Jack Earnest Brown, 95

Jack Brown passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home in Kalispell on Thursday, April 20, 2017. He was 95.

Vera Stewart, 94

Vera Stewart passed away on April 17, 2017, of natural causes.

'Shorty' George Goggins, 79

“Shorty” George Goggins passed away on Monday, April 17, 2017, at the age of 79, with his family present.

Paxton R. Fisher, 18

Paxton R. Fisher, 18, of Columbia Falls, “went to be with Jesus” Tuesday, April 18, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center due to complications from cancer.

Patrick Daniel Casey, 80

Patrick Daniel Casey, 80, of Kalispell, passed away at Kalispell Regional Hospital on April 17, 2017, at 11 a.m., after a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loved ones.

Jean Posey Moore, 80

Jean Posey Moore entered this world on July 21, 1936, at the family home in Chicago. She was the daughter of Ernest and Kathryn Posey. She had one sister, Patricia Wood (Bob), and a brother, Thomas Posey (Betty).

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A caller on 12th Street West believed several kids riding motorized scooters were too young to have a driver’s license. The kids were told to walk the scooters home, according to Columbia Falls Police Department.

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A caller on 12th Street West believed several kids riding motorized scooters were too young to have a driver’s license. The kids were told to walk the scooters home, according to Columbia Falls Police Department.

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A caller on 12th Street West believed several kids riding motorized scooters were too young to have a driver’s license. The kids were told to walk the scooters home, according to Columbia Falls Police Department.

About those extra mail-in ballots? Don't try to vote with them

Carl Rieckmann, a former Daily Inter Lake reporter and editor from the 1980s, who is now retired and recently returned to the Flathead, contacted me to let me know he was puzzled by a discovery he made in his mailbox last week.

Yard wars: Let the battle begin

I stood on my front deck a few days ago (in between rain showers) and surveyed the aftermath of a long, snowy winter. And I thought to myself, “Oh, woe is me.”

First responders take part in plane crash simulation at airport

Imagine a plane crash happening right here in Kalispell. A plane with nearly 50 people crashing near an airstrip, rather than landing on it. People with varying degrees of injuries, confused, hurt and in need of help. The plane catches fire and some are still unable to move from their injuries — unable to get to safety. Who would respond? And how?

Lawmakers reject idea of campus taprooms

HELENA — A tasting room is no longer on tap for Flathead Valley Community College’s growing brewery program.

Polson netters sweep Stevi

STEVENSVILLE — The Polson tennis teams swept Stevensville on the road on Saturday.

Sykes, Berreth win Libby Invite

LIBBY — Libby’s Jhamaal Sykes and Bigfork’s Ellie Berreth won the singles titles at the Libby Invitational.

Blalack, Flaxman fourth at Kalispell Invite

Glacier’s Holland Blalack finished fourth in boys No. 1 singles and Flathead’s Kaylin Flaxman was fourth in girls No. 1 singles on a busy day at the Kalispell Tennis Invite on Saturday at Flathead Valley Community College.

'Cats take Iceberg Invite

Columbia Falls — The Columbia Falls boys won seven events to run away with the host Iceberg Invitational on Saturday afternoon at Columbia Falls Junior High.

Hill wins twice at Optimist Invite

GREAT FALLS — Glacier junior Annie Hill set state-best times in the 800 and 1,600 and senior Nikki Krueger topped her own state-best mark in the shot put to lead Glacier to a fourth place team finish at the Great Falls Optimist Invite on Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

Johnston wins in T-Falls by 13

THOMPSON FALLS — Libby sophomore Ryggs Johnston shot a 3-under-par 69 to win the Thompson Falls Invitational golf tournament by 13 strokes and remain unbeaten in this season.

Bravettes hold off Hellgate for first win

Flathead picked up its first win of the season on Saturday, topping Missoula Hellgate in the second game of a doubleheader at Conrad Complex.

Wolfpack wins Swede Dahlberg

BUTTE — The Glacier boys rode some impressive sprint performances to a win at the Swede Dahlberg Invitational.

Glacier stays hot against Hellgate

MISSOULA — The Glacier girls kept their bats rolling, putting together their first win streak of the season after beating Missoula Hellgate 13-7.

Grudge match: dogs vs. mailman

An age-old rivalry reared its head in a face off between a mail carrier and two dogs. The man was allegedly knocked down by a playful German shepherd and pursued by its more aggressive sibling, a red heeler. The man told Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies he was bruised and sore as a result of the showdown but was otherwise unharmed.

June Arvilla (Porter) French, 87

June Arvilla (Porter) French, 87, passed away peacefully at home on April 17, 2017, near Bigfork.

Lawrence E. Sutherland Jr., 90

Larry was born Dec. 14, 1926, to Lawrence and Dorothy Schurr Sutherland in Anaheim, California.

Jack Earnest Brown, 95

Jack Brown passed away peacefully of natural causes at his home in Kalispell on Thursday, April 20, 2017. He was 95.

Jeanette Mae Dullum, 70

Jeanette Mae Dullum died April 20, 2017, surrounded by her loving family, after a lengthy illness of multiple system atrophy.

Kalispell business pioneer Jack Brown dies at 95

Jack Brown, one of the founding fathers of modern Kalispell, has died at the age of 95.

Code Girls take on tech challenge

The future tech girls of the Flathead Valley have arrived and they’re prepared to bring their coding game to their first competition.

Trump Jr. stumps for Gianforte at Kalispell rally

Trump Jr. makes pitch for Gianforte

An estimated 500 people gathered at a private hangar at Glacier Park International Airport on Friday to hear President Donald Trump’s son, Donald Trump Jr., rally support for Republican congressional candidate Greg Gianforte.

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Seven charged in Flathead prostitution sting

A prostitution sting on April 17 and 18 coordinated by several local law enforcement agencies resulted in criminal charges against seven individuals.

Gas-tax hike gets House endorsement

HELENA — A proposed 6-cents-per-gallon increase in Montana’s gasoline taxes is one vote away from reaching the governor’s desk. The state House on Friday gave preliminary approval to the measure on a 61-39 vote.

Convicted drug dealer sent to state prison

A convicted heroin dealer from Kalispell has been sentenced to 10 years in state prison, despite alternative recommendations from both the state and his attorney.

Flathead jobless rate inches upward

The number of unemployed people in Northwest Montana increased slightly in March, the state Department of Labor and Industry said Friday.

Trump Jr.'s prairie dog hunt in Montana prompts backlash

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Donald Trump Jr. will be targeting more than just Montana's Republican voters on Friday and Saturday when he helps Greg Gianforte campaign for an open U.S. House seat.

Blackfeet approve water rights agreement

The Blackfeet Tribe on Thursday approved a water rights agreement with Montana and the federal government.

Election 'fun' just getting started

It was just over a week ago that Rob Quist reported he had raised $900,000 in his race against Greg Gianforte for Montana’s lone seat in the U.S. House. A few days later Gianforte reported he had raised $1.6 million.

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Greg Gianforte has complained that when we campaigned for governor, he was subjected to a lot of false claims and innuendos. Now in his present campaign for Congress, he has done nothing but spew distorted false claims and innuendos at Rob Quist.

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Greg Gianforte has complained that when we campaigned for governor, he was subjected to a lot of false claims and innuendos. Now in his present campaign for Congress, he has done nothing but spew distorted false claims and innuendos at Rob Quist.

Glacier grand slam ends big-hitting crosstown contest

With Glacier playing well in a steady rain at home against crosstown rival Flathead, Wolfpack junior Alivia Atlee brought the thunder in the fifth inning, closing the game with a walkoff grand slam to give her team an 18-8 Western AA conference softball victory on Thursday afternoon.

Bonners Ferry sinks Libby

LIBBY — Bonners Ferry buried Libby with two big innings, holding off a late rally to win a 6-5 nonconference softball game on Thursday afternoon.

Montana Senate agrees to floor hearing of charter schools

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana Senate revived a charter schools bill Thursday that would sidestep the authority of school boards by establishing a new statewide commission to oversee a system of nontraditional schools.

Political practices chief confirmed in whirlwind 24 hours

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Montana lawmakers on Thursday confirmed "one of our own," as one senator put it, as the next commissioner in charge of making sure they follow campaign laws and of enforcing any violations they commit.

Montana House gives initial OK to contribution limit boost

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — The Montana House endorsed a measure Thursday that would raise campaign contribution limits for state candidates and change how the commissioner of political practices enforces campaign violations.

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Bigfork land-use committee has contested race

A contested race has developed for two vacancies on the Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee, with three candidates vying for the positions.

Kalispell attorney censured by high court

An attorney from Kalispell was publicly censured by the Montana Supreme Court on Tuesday in response to reported violations in his debt collection practices.

Glacier to host Park 'Rx' Day

Glacier National Park will join 50 parks across the country to celebrate the healing power of being outdoors for people’s minds and bodies.

Dog pile brawl results in bloody bat, no arrests

Kalispell police responded to a report of multiple assault victims Thursday afternoon after a fight involving a bloody baseball bat allegedly broke out between four people at the intersection of Seventh Avenue East and 10th Street East.

Pup punished for eating poultry

A man was reported for hitting his dog. The man told Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies he was disciplining his dog for eating chicken bones. The dog appeared to be uninjured.

Sophie Marie (Thompson) Johnson, 99

  Sophie Marie (Thompson) Johnson was born May 29, 1917, on the family farm near Litchville, North Dakota, to Thorvald and Olive (Sortland) Thompson. She was the second of six children. She attended a one room school in Svea, North Dakota with her (future) husband, Roy V. Johnson. After graduating from high school she earned her teaching degree from Valley City Teacher’s College and worked as a teacher for several years in eastern North Dakota and Minnesota.

Owners want to renege on easement

The owners of the North Shore Ranch on Flathead Lake near Somers have asked Flathead County commissioners to remove a requirement from a 2010 lawsuit settlement that requires the owners to put a conservation easement on a portion of the 367-acre property.

Work to begin on improvements at Kidsports

New sports fields and various other facility updates are planned this summer at the Kidsports Complex in Kalispell.

Bipartisan support to protect state's 'rainy day' account

HELENA ­— As the 2017 legislative session enters its final days, the still-unresolved biennial budget and a proposed infrastructure package are creating growing friction between the Republican-controlled Legislature and Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock’s office.

Bullock vetoes proposal to shift authority over state parks

HELENA — A Democratic lawmaker’s proposal to remove most authority over Montana State Parks from the state wildlife department was rejected Thursday by Gov. Steve Bullock, but the bill may have enough support from the Legislature to override the veto.

Western governors coming to Whitefish

Governors from western states will converge in Whitefish in June for the Western Governors’ Association annual meeting.

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Western singer Mary Kaye to play Whitefish

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is hosting Mary Kaye, a solo singer-songwriter known for her genuine and vibrant Western folk songs, Friday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

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Western singer Mary Kaye to play Whitefish

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is hosting Mary Kaye, a solo singer-songwriter known for her genuine and vibrant Western folk songs, Friday, April 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

'Sister Act'

Disco music and cloistered convents collide in the musical “Sister Act,” coming to the Whitefish Performing Arts Center April 28-30 and presented by Alpine Theatre Project Kids.

'Wild Impressions,' featuring Wanda Mumm, opens April 27

The Hockaday Museum of Art will host “Wild Impressions,” a new exhibition featuring painter Wanda Mumm’s pieces created during her participation in the 2016 Artist Wilderness Connection Program.

Former skinhead to share story at Whitefish event

A former white supremacist who left the movement he helped build will be in Whitefish on Monday, April 24, to share his story and offer ways to counter the movement he once was part of promoting.

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Despite the bouncy chords, the island strums, the line of instruments, the sheets of notes and the flowing stream of voices echoing in this room, no one here is a musician.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 20

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Despite the bouncy chords, the island strums, the line of instruments, the sheets of notes and the flowing stream of voices echoing in this room, no one here is a musician.

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Anderson Broadcasting has spent the last four weeks mining for the best 12 karaoke singers in the Flathead Valley.

There's been a 'Murder at the OK Corral' in Eureka

The Eureka Community Players open their annual Rendezvous Weekend Thursday, April 27, with the first of four performances of “Murder at the OK Corral.”

Gunplay at the Club

Everybody loves a gunfight. Well, maybe not a real gunfight. But a western gunfight. And a western gunfighter.

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THURSDAY, APRIL 20

28th annual Whitefish Wine and Food Fest May 3

An annual Whitefish tradition, the Project Whitefish Wine and Food Fest, is set for Wednesday, May 3 from 6-9 p.m. at the Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish.

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Anderson Broadcasting has spent the last four weeks mining for the best 12 karaoke singers in the Flathead Valley.

Tchaikovsky's 'Eugene Onegin' up next for The Met: Live in HD

Tchaikovsky’s luscious opera Eugene Onegin (“oh-NYAY-gen”) will be broadcast live in HD at Kalispell’s Signature Cinema 14 Saturday, April 22 at 10:55 a.m., and the recorded performance will be shown at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center the following Saturday, April 29 also at 10:55 a.m., as part of The Met: Live in HD series.

'Julius Caesar'

Power, politics, jealousy and patriotism collide in William Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar,” presented by the Flathead High School Theatre department April 26-29 at 6:27 p.m. in the David M. Hashley Theatre at the school.

Symphony announces summer schedule

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale’s summer concert series includes two days of “Pops Goes to the Movies” and the 10th annual Festival Amadeus.

Brock out of the hard place

There was a hint sent out Wednesday that Brock Osweiler may be out of football purgatory.

Flathead, Glacier look for first win

It hasn’t been the best of starts for the Flathead and Glacier softball teams this spring.

Boxing smoker back for 8th year

The Daily Inter Lake

Hospital to replace aging helicopter

The nonprofit air ambulance serving Northwest Montana is about to be limited to a helicopter that’s grounded months out of each year.

Kalispell to host student musicians

Flathead and Glacier high schools will host student musicians from nine schools around the region at the 2017 District 1 Music Festival this week.

City council makes annual appointments

Monday’s Kalispell City Council meeting yielded 18 newly filled board and committee positions, which were set to expire at the end of this month.

Kila cabin consumed by blaze

An unoccupied cabin was destroyed in a blaze on a property on Wild Bill Road near Kila Sunday evening.

Sue Nicholson, 69

On April 14, 2017, Good Friday, at 6:43 p.m. Mountain Standard Time, Sue Nicholson died at the age of 69. She passed gently in the company of her friends and family in her home, the way she wanted to.

Kathleen Louise Lee, 51

Kathleen Louise Lee, 51, of Troy, passed away suddenly on Monday, April 17, 2017, due to an accident on the road construction site she was working in Livingston.

Jack F. Klein, 88

Jack Frederick Klein, 88, died of natural causes on Easter Sunday, April 16, 2017. He received his wish and died peacefully in his sleep, at home, surrounded by his loved ones.

Woman reports potential assault

A woman reported being assaulted by a man smelling of alcohol stumbling around in an alley on Sixth Avenue West. The woman told Kalispell Police that the man was all over her, grabbing at her chest and trying to get her to go with him. The man reportedly had a pink cast on his arm, no teeth and a Chihuahua wearing a pink sweater.

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Kyren Bartmess, son of Bryce and Rhiana Bartmess, was born Nov. 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Kyren Bartmess, son of Bryce and Rhiana Bartmess, was born Nov. 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Kyren Bartmess, son of Bryce and Rhiana Bartmess, was born Nov. 11 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Fires hurt Montana's air quality report card

HELENA — Montana is called Big Sky Country due to its wide open spaces and clear sky, but there are times when wildfires, geography and weather patterns combine to make the air in the western part of the state unsafe for people with asthma or chronic lung disease.

Don't forget your local elections

We know there’s an immense amount on interest in the special election being held May 25 to pick Montana’s lone member of the U.S. House of Representatives. That was inevitable when popular congressman Ryan Zinke resigned to become Donald Trump’s secretary of the interior.

Frenchtown pounds Polson pitchers

The Daily Inter Lake

Flathead, Columbia Falls split tennis dual

Flathead and Columbia Falls split their tennis duals on Tuesday at Flathead Valley Community College, finishing their rounds just before a spate of rain came through the area.

Records fall at Crosstown track

The Wolfpack swept the crosstown track dual on Tuesday in record fashion on an overcast afternoon at Glacier High School.

Governor, GOP negotiating deal on tax policy in final days

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — Gov. Steve Bullock is negotiating with Republican Senate leaders in the final days of the legislative session to pass three tax credit and tax cut bills that he favors in exchange for tax policy measures that they want.

Meeting and input session planned April 26

Montana West Economic Development will be hosting its quarterly meeting and luncheon for investors and members on April 26. The meeting will report on MWED’s 2017 strategic plan and progress on Kalispell’s Core and Rail Development project.

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Community mourns death of beloved teen

The Columbia Falls community was mourning a young life lost Tuesday after word spread that Paxton Fisher had died from complications due to cancer.

Lawmakers reject changes to property tax-relief bill

HELENA ­­— The Montana Senate rejected changes to a proposal designed to ease property taxes for homeowners along Flathead and Whitefish lakes, voting Tuesday against a means-testing provision added by the House last week.

Bert Lenon, 65

Bert Lenon, 65, passed away April 11, 2017, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell.

Victoria Marie Tronstad

A celebration of life for Victoria Marie Tronstad, 63, who died April 3 will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 25, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Kalispell.

Moving car gets surprise paint job

A group of kids with a paintball gun allegedly shot at an oncoming car, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office. The alleged victim claimed the paintball hit the windshield and splattered across the car. The incident was reportedly recorded by the victim’s dashboard camera. The suspects were caught and apologized. The alleged victim decided not to press charges.

Beryl Dorean Krejci, 90

Mrs. Beryl Dorean Krejci (nee Barney) died peacefully in her home on April 16, 2017, at 3:22 a.m. in Marion, at the age of 90 years.

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Owen Fulford, son of Benjamin and Jessica Fulford, was born Nov. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Owen Fulford, son of Benjamin and Jessica Fulford, was born Nov. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

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Owen Fulford, son of Benjamin and Jessica Fulford, was born Nov. 4 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Worker hit, killed in construction zone on Interstate 90

BOZEMAN, Mont. (AP) — Authorities say a worker was hit and killed by a vehicle driven by a co-worker in a construction zone on Interstate 90 in southern Montana.

Whitefish woman sues neo-Nazi for online assault

The founder of a neo-Nazi website who orchestrated a vicious online anti-Semitic harassment campaign against Whitefish resident Tanya Gersh and her family is being sued by Gersh.

Appeals court won't add candidates to Montana ballot

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — An appeals court has denied a request by three minor party and independent candidates to put them on the ballot for Montana's May 25 special congressional election.

Suspect in Facebook video killing shoots himself to death

CLEVELAND (AP) — The man who randomly killed a Cleveland retiree and posted video of the crime on Facebook shot himself to death in his car Tuesday during a police chase in Pennsylvania, ending a multistate manhunt less than 48 hours after it began.

Blackfeet tribal members to hold vote on water compact

The Blackfeet Tribe will hold a historic referendum Thursday seeking ratification of its water-rights compact with the state of Montana and the federal government.

Kalispell man endures genetic pancreatitis

For years, doctors attributed Jackson Hokanson’s disease to excessive drinking. But he wasn’t an alcoholic.

Contractor chosen for new elementary school

Langlas and Associates will serve as the general contractor and construction manager for the $15.2 million new south elementary school to be constructed on Airport Road in Kalispell.

Renters on rooftop get rowdy

Several individuals renting the basement of a house on East Evergreen Drive were reportedly seen causing a disturbance by sitting on the roof of the residence with a cooler, yelling at people passing by, according to a Kalispell Police report.

Man denies hit-and-run charges

A Kalispell man denied involvement in a hit-and-run incident in which he allegedly threatened another man with two weapons in March.

Community invited to experience life as a college student

Flathead Valley Community College is inviting high school students and anyone considering a career change the opportunity to experience life as a college student on April 21.

Two board positions at stake in Kalispell schools election

By HILARY MATHESON

Kalispell lawyer recounts life's adventures

The adage that a smile can be infectious is true for Don Murray.

Crosstown track meet at Glacier

The annual crosstown track and field meet celebrates its 10th edition today when Flathead and Glacier square off at 3 p.m. at Glacier.

Durado to join Alaska Hall of Fame

The Daily Inter Lake

Water-line repairs will impact Kalispell traffic

Beginning Tuesday, April 18, the city of Kalispell will begin water-line repairs to the 1000 block of South Main Street. Southbound traffic will be detoured into the parking lane area with northbound traffic being detoured into the center lane. Traffic control measures will be in place from Ninth Street to 12th Street. The repair is anticipated to be completed within the first workday, however, the detour (traffic control) will remain in place for up to four days. Motorists are encouraged to obey all warning signs and to proceed with caution.

Kalispell City Council to award bid for Kidsports project

Kalispell City Council will award the bid for Kidsports Addition Infrastructure Improvements Project during its regular meeting on Monday.

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Being one of the ignorant voters who voted for President Trump, maybe I can help Jim Lockwood out. He wondered why anyone could you vote for a man like President Trump.

Montana history deserves a home

What price does one put on history?

Judicial activism and politics have made a mess of the courts

There should come a point in time when America should stand up and say, “Enough is enough” and remove immediately these judges who sit on various courts and have a political agenda. It is also time to place term limits and age limits on those who serve on the bench.

Special election mailbag

One of the many things that made going to Bigfork High School in the early 1960s so enjoyable was the presence of a living Montana legend just across the fence from the school. J. Hugo Aronson, Montana’s twice-elected governor who won his first term in 1952, was an approachable and genial presence in the village. When the Republican retired from public life, he and his family moved to Bigfork and lived in an unpretentious home overlooking the bay. His daughter was in my class.

Innovation should plant seeds across all industries

We rely on innovation to change our lives, but we tend to think about what it means for phones or the internet, not farmland.

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Being one of the ignorant voters who voted for President Trump, maybe I can help Jim Lockwood out. He wondered why anyone could you vote for a man like President Trump.

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Being one of the ignorant voters who voted for President Trump, maybe I can help Jim Lockwood out. He wondered why anyone could you vote for a man like President Trump.

Corvallis tops C-Falls, Whitefish

COLUMBIA FALLS — Corvallis tallied two runs in the top of the sixth to tie it at 2-all, then scored four times in the seventh to claim a 6-3 Class A nonconfernce softball victoryh Saturday over Columbia Falls.

Long day on courts for Glacier, Flathead, Polson

It was a long day for Glacier and Flathead on the courts at Flathead Valley Community College Saturday.

Flathead, Glacier 0-4 vs. Helena

Flathead had to contend with a top pitcher in the first game, then had one bad inning in the second outing to drop two Western AA softball contests on Saturday afternoon at Kidsports Complex.

Lions, Vals prevail at Bigfork Invitational

BIGFORK — The Eureka boys and Bigfork girls each won handily on Saturday at the Bigfork Invitational track meet.

Flathead boys win Missoula Invitational track

MISSOULA — The Flathead and Glacier boys took the top two spots at the Missoula County Public Schools Invitational on Saturday at Dornblaser Field on the campus of the University of Montana.

Black and Blue knock around North Idaho, 33-14

Rugby

Trump: Is he the best of a bad lot - or just more of the same?

Last year, I told conservatives who would come to visit me in my office that there were three main things to remember about the presidential election:

Pete Lemer, 75

Pete Lemer, 75, of Rexford, Montana, passed away of natural causes on April 5, 2017.

Barbara Jean Chilton, 85

Barbara Jean Chilton, 85, passed away Monday, April 10, 2017, at The Retreat due to complications associated with her stroke in January 2017.

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A vehicle reportedly drove up to a soccer complex on the north side of town, dropped off a border collie, and left. The caller told Kalispell Police that no one stayed behind with the dog.

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A vehicle reportedly drove up to a soccer complex on the north side of town, dropped off a border collie, and left. The caller told Kalispell Police that no one stayed behind with the dog.

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A vehicle reportedly drove up to a soccer complex on the north side of town, dropped off a border collie, and left. The caller told Kalispell Police that no one stayed behind with the dog.

Robert 'Bob' E. Rickard, 78

Robert “Bob” E. Rickard passed away April 12, 2017 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center. He was 78 years old.

Catherine 'Katie' McKinley, 96

Catherine “Katie” McKinley, 96, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully on April 12, 2017, at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell.

Ruth Foreman Baker, 85

Ruth Foreman Baker was born July 22, 1931, to Glyenn and Nellie Messerly. She was raised on the family homestead near Lodge Pole, Montana, where she grew up with her eight brothers and sisters.

Duane Verl Onstad, 87

Duane Verl Onstad, 87, beloved husband and father, “returned to the loving arms of the Lord” on April 10, 2017, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

James Haldeman Armstrong Sr., 87

A remembrance of life for James Haldeman Armstrong Sr., 87, who died Dec. 20, 2016, will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, April 22, at the Shining Center for Spiritual Living, 475 Eighth Ave. EN., in Kalispell.

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Board backs Stillwater Bend development

Plans for a new development on the north side of Kalispell will move forward with unanimous support from the Kalispell City Planning Board.

Help make a mountain of food

There’s more than one way to build a mountain of food and those who want to help the Flathead Food Bank have plenty of opportunities.

Today's FVCC Theatre is cutting-edge facility

Flathead Valley Community College’s theater-arts program has come a long way since the first plays were staged in the second-floor ballroom of the Elks Building in downtown Kalispell.

Nominations open for inaugural '20 Under 40' in Flathead County

For the first time, Flathead County’s’s best and brightest young professionals will be honored in June at the inaugural “20 Under 40” celebration and event. A month-long nomination period has opened up and will be followed by a review by a selection committee comprised of local business leaders. Young Professionals can be nominated through an online form hosted on dailyinterlake.com, hungryhorsenews.com, whitefishpilot.com, and bigforkeagle.com. Nominations period will end at midnight, May 14.

Local Sears Hometown stores thriving

Despite Sears closings stores and a looming possibility of bankruptcy that was announced by the company last month, the local Sears Hometown Store is thriving and “will be around” for years to come.

Celebrating the spring festival of Passover

On Monday evening at just before 6:30 p.m., guests begin making their way to the Whitefish home of Marc and Rabbi Francine Roston for a celebration of the start of Passover, the feast of unleavened bread, which celebrates the liberation of the Israelites from Egypt.

Orphaned griz cubs adapting to new home

Having survived a tragedy of storybook proportions, two orphaned grizzly bear cubs from the Flathead Indian Reservation are settling into their new home at the Maryland Zoo in Baltimore, and gaining quite a following in the process.

Airport preps for busy summer

Glacier Park International Airport earlier this month put a request into the Transportation Security Administration for a third X-ray bag scanner in anticipation of increased traffic this coming summer.

Committee sinks houseboat rules

HELENA — The Montana Legislature won’t be passing limitations on houseboats this session.

Three-way wrestling bout won by dog

An alleged wrestling bout between a husband and wife ended with the woman being bitten by their dog, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.

Museum at Central School names new director

Jacob Thomas, a 28-year-old Michigan native, is the new executive director of the Museum at Central School, replacing the retiring Gil Jordan.

Glacier student, veteran to embark on Honor Flight

Wayne Bolton, 84, and Tristen Lang, 18, are at different chapters in their lives. The thread binding the generations is the military.

Commission approves Bigfork bridge plan

Flathead County Commissioners unanimously voted to accept a plan to replace Bigfork’s historic one-lane bridge Thursday.

Convicted murderer will appeal sentence

Three months after being convicted of murder, 30-year-old Robert Wittal plans to appeal his conviction and 110-year prison sentence.

Tester reports $3M in the bank for 2018 re-election campaign

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — U.S. Sen Jon Tester has already amassed more than $3 million to spend on his 2018 re-election campaign.

Libby's Johnston blitzes soaked Hullett Invite

BIGFORK — Libby sophomore Ryggs Johnston continued his torrid start to the golf season, carding a 5-under-par 67 to win the Steve Hullett Memorial by 14 strokes on Thursday at Eagle Bend Golf Club.

Libby bats saw down Troy in 26-1 win

LIBBY — Libby scored 26 runs in the first three innings of play before calling off the dogs in a dominant performance against Troy on Thursday afternoon.

Gianforte meets with Kalispell Chamber

Montana’s Republican candidate for the state’s sole U.S. House seat repeated his campaign themes in Kalispell on Thursday afternoon, promising to keep Montana first and to “drain the swamp” in Washington.

Two men and a baby carriage stir suspicion

Two men were reportedly walking down the middle of Shadow Lane pushing a baby carriage. The reporting person feared the men were “casing the neighborhood,” but Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies confirmed the two were just out for a walk.

June Lorell Hair, 77

On Sunday, April 9, 2017, at 1 p.m., our mom, wife, grandma and friend “went to be with Jesus.”

Gene Harrison, 82

Gene Harrison, 82, passed away on April 11, 2017, in Kalispell.

Maintenance on Stillwater Road starts Monday

The city of Kalispell will be performing street maintenance on Stillwater Road between the Reserve Roundabout to Four Mile Drive. The repair operations are scheduled to start Monday, April 17, and are expected to be completed by Thursday, April 20, weather permitting. Work will begin at approximately 7 a.m. and continue to 5 p.m. Expect street closure with traffic devices to direct traffic. Residents are asked to use alternate routes during this time.

Man charged in Rollins house fire

A 23-year-old man accused of lighting a Rollins home on fire with its owner sleeping inside has been arrested on charges of arson, aggravated burglary and attempted homicide.

Barbara Jean Chilton, 85

Barbara Jean Chilton, 85, passed away Monday, April 10, 2017, at The Retreat due to complications associated with her stroke in January 2017.

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Easter events planned across the valley

Gather your kiddos, grab their Easter baskets and head for one of these fun Easter egg hunts. Here’s a rundown of where the action is:

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Board approves West Glacier RV park

After a marathon meeting Wednesday night, the Flathead County Planning Board voted 5-3 to approve a plan for an RV park in West Glacier.

Bigfork man admits to workers' comp fraud

A Bigfork man has admitted to fraudulently collecting more than $27,000 in workers’ compensation benefits from the state while bragging about playing golf daily and working “under the counter.”

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By ANDY VIANO

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By ANDY VIANO

US hit IS with largest non-nuclear bomb ever used

WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. forces in Afghanistan on Thursday struck an Islamic State tunnel complex in eastern Afghanistan with "the mother of all bombs," the largest non-nuclear weapon every used in combat by the U.S. military, Pentagon officials said.

Bigfork Community Players holding roundtable for directors

The Bigfork Community Players will hold a roundtable discussion for aspiring directors, Sunday, April 30 from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Swan River Inn in Bigfork.

Zinke: U.S. won't transfer Bison Range to tribes

Discussions will continue about larger management role for Salish and Kootenai

In a significant policy reversal, the U.S. Department of the Interior announced Wednesday it will no longer pursue the possible returning of the National Bison Range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.

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Children's theater says 'Cowabunga'

The 15th annual “Cowabunga” variety show fundraiser for the Bigfork Playhouse Children’s Theatre and Bigfork ACES after-school program is Friday and Saturday, April 21 and 22 at 7:30 p.m. at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts.

Whitefish further down the Trail

You have to hand it to Whitefish. The community knows how to raise money and build trails — or anything else its citizens see as a need.

Bad Larrys playing benefit concert

The Kalispell Montessori Elementary and Middle School’s annual spring concert is Saturday, April 29, at 7 p.m. at The O’ Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

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It is opening weekend for “On Golden Pond,” the spring production of the Whitefish Theatre Co. Ernest Thompson’s classic drama runs at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish, April 14-15 and 20-22 at 7:30 p.m. and on April 16 at 4 p.m. A sneak preview performance will be held April 13 at 7:30 p.m.

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Socialism is sharing the wealth. The government takes our taxes and returns them in goods — water, roads — and/or services — schools, garbage collection, Medicare, etc. These programs, administered by the government with our money — federal, state, county, city — are socialist programs. Simple.

Bill would allow tribes to withdraw from prosecution agreement

HELENA — As likely its last action of the session, the House Judiciary Committee on Tuesday reversed course on a bill it had tabled one day earlier, endorsing a measure to give the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes the option of withdrawing from a long-standing law-enforcement agreement with Lake County.

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Flathead Valley Live on Stage will welcome Cherish the Ladies, a Grammy-nominated, Irish-American supergroup, to Kalispell on Wednesday.

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It is opening weekend for “On Golden Pond,” the spring production of the Whitefish Theatre Co. Ernest Thompson’s classic drama runs at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish, April 14-15 and 20-22 at 7:30 p.m. and on April 16 at 4 p.m. A sneak preview performance will be held April 13 at 7:30 p.m.

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Flathead Valley Live on Stage will welcome Cherish the Ladies, a Grammy-nominated, Irish-American supergroup, to Kalispell on Wednesday.

FVCC theater presents 'Bye Bye Birdie'

The theater department at Flathead Valley Community College will perform the 1960 musical “Bye Bye Birdie” over two weekends, April 20-22 and 28-29.

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Socialism is sharing the wealth. The government takes our taxes and returns them in goods — water, roads — and/or services — schools, garbage collection, Medicare, etc. These programs, administered by the government with our money — federal, state, county, city — are socialist programs. Simple.

Legislator responds to letter writer's claims about energy

In his opinion letter to the Inter Lake on March 31, Mr. Roger Sherman made some misguided statements about some legislation that I am sponsoring. I am grateful to him for giving me this teachable moment. He made some vague statement that my bills “oppose solar and other alternative energy” without giving any evidence. I wonder if he has read the bills. I think the bills he is referring to are SB 32 and SB 78.

Museum screening 'The Candidate'

Kalispell’s Museum at Central School will be showing the 1972 Robert Redford film “The Candidate,” Tuesday, April 25 at 7 p.m.

Auditions next week for Black Curtain Theatre's 'Luna Gale'

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for its final Black Curtain Theatre production of the 2016-17 season, “Luna Gale,” April 16 and 17 at 7 p.m.

Weather permitting, Flathead, Glacier on courts for crosstown tennis

When asked about today’s crosstown tennis dual on the courts at Flathead Valley Community College, Glacier coach Josh Munro offered one word — “hopefully.”

Levies, trustees on the ballots

School elections are coming up May 2 and Whitefish School District is seeking general fund levies for day-to-day operations in addition to electing trustees.

Program connects first responders and veterans with horse therapy

A Flathead nonprofit is connecting veterans and first responders with an equine therapy program that hopes to help participants manage anxiety that can follow high-stress situations.

Maripat Hagen, 80

Maripat Nerlin Hagen, of Billings, passed away peacefully after a short illness April 10, 2017, surrounded by her family.

Man heard bullet whiz by his head

A man described as a “grumpy old drunk” allegedly opened the door to his trailer and shot at a man about 60 feet away, missing him by about a foot. The alleged victim told Flathead County Sheriff’s deputies he heard the bullet “whiz by his head.”

Duane Verl Onstad, 87

Duane Verl Onstad, 87, of Kalispell, passed away April 10, 2017, at Heritage Place in Kalispell.

Donald Lynn Seward, 62

Donald Lynn Seward, 62, passed away peacefully at his home in Kalispell on April 4, 2016.

Deferred sentence for accused rapist

Initially charged with rape and sexual assault, a Kalispell man has received a six-year deferred sentence after he pleaded down to an amended charge of criminal endangerment.

Tina (Uhtoff) Sims, 51

Tina (Uhtoff) Sims passed away in Lakeside on April 9, 2017.

Robert H. Pettee, 82

Robert H. Pettee, 82, passed away Feb. 19, 2017.

Team to oversee asbestos cleanup fund

HELENA — With the Libby Superfund Site slated to see federal environmental crews wrapping up work by the end of the year, the Montana Legislature is moving to establish an advisory team to oversee millions of state dollars to fund continued cleanup and maintenance.

Canyon project underway

A logging crew has finished clearing 14 acres of trees along U.S. 2 through Hungry Horse to make way for construction of a new bridge and highway expansion.

Senate OKs proposal to allow guns in Capitol

HELENA — The Senate on Wednesday endorsed a Kalispell legislator’s proposal to allow lawmakers to carry concealed handguns in the Capitol. If it passes on a final vote Thursday, it then heads to the governor’s desk.

Trump Jr. will stump for Gianforte in Kalispell

Donald Trump Jr. will campaign in the Flathead Valley on behalf of GOP congressional candidate Greg Gianforte on Friday, April 21, as part of a statewide tour announced by the Gianforte campaign to supporters in a Tuesday email.

Softball Sentinel, Big Sky top Glacier, Flathead

MISSOULA — Glacier showed some “grit” according to coach Andy Fors by bouncing back from a rough 13-1 loss to Missoula Sentinel to battle with Big Sky before the Eagles pulled out a 9-7 victory in Western AA softball play on Tuesday.

MHSA moves state A-C track meet from Missoula to Laurel

The Daily Inter Lake

Top marks set at Kalispell Invite

The sun came out and so did the best in the Northwest as some of the top track marks in the state were set at the Kalispell Invitational on Tuesday at Legends Stadium.

Local skier wins national contest

Whitefish skier Parkin Costain made a big impression in the online skiing community, winning the Youn Guns Ski contest presented by Quiksilver and Newschoolers.com.

Bygren, Crooks elected to Flathead Electric board

Two new members will join the board of Flathead Electric Co-op following a mail-ballot election that ended on Friday.

Bigfork man enters Alford plea in sexual assault case

A Bigfork man accused of sexually assaulting a 6-year-old girl has signed a plea agreement with the state, entering an Alford plea on April 11.

City residents reminded about poultry laws

It’s baby chick season, but roosters need not apply for residency in any of Flathead County’s three incorporated cities. Only hens can be city dwellers.

Officials: Rats carrying hantavirus can be deadly

Montana health officials have warned people to keep an eye out for rats this spring to avoid an infection that — while uncommon — can be fatal.

Commission backs option for one-lane Bigfork bridge

Flathead County Commissioners gave their verbal support for a plan to replace the Bigfork historic one-lane Swan River Bridge, which has decayed to the point that officials fear it’s near closure.

Bills to fight invasive mussels get preliminary OK

HELENA­ — Both chambers of the Montana Legislature on Tuesday gave preliminary approval to a pair of bills that would create a more than $6 million-per-year program to expand the state’s fight against invasive mussels.

Janet Arleen McConville, 75

Janet Arleen McConville, 75, of Columbia Falls, passed away Saturday, April 8, 2017, following a courageous fight with cancer and COPD. “With family by her side, and God in her heart, Janet made the final journey to be with her parents, two brothers, her sister, her son and daughter and two grandsons.”

June Lorell Hair, 77

On Sunday, April 9, 2017, at 1 p.m., our mom, wife, grandma and friend “went to be with Jesus.”

Bobbie Reber Corette, 75

Roberta Marie Reber Corette died April 3, 2017, of natural causes with her beloved dog Ella by her side in Bigfork.

Resort sets skier-visit mark

The winter of 2016-17 delivered for Whitefish Mountain Resort.

Kalispell physician-legislator to challenge Tester

HELENA — A Republican lawmaker from Kalispell announced Tuesday that he will challenge Montana’s Democratic U.S. senator in 2018.

Tester picks up Republican challenger for 2018 election

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — U.S. Sen. Jon Tester has his first challenger in the 2018 Montana elections.

Glacier High robotics team earns awards

A Glacier High School robotics team earned accolades and the top three spots in different competitive events at a recent Montana Technology Student Association State Leadership Conference in Billings.

Chief petty officer returns after 20 years

Twenty years ago, Anthony Fluke promised his parents and grandparents he would return from the Navy safe and sound. He would march up the driveway in his chief’s uniform, he told them.

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Some years ago, a “Celebration of the Life of Tom Yenne” took place at Fair-Mont-Egan School and a huge crowd attended. What made it so unusual was that Tom Yenne was alive at the time. Don Siblerud, now deceased, was one that spearheaded the idea as he felt it would be nice for Tom to actually know how much he was appreciated and loved for his years of service as a high-school bus driver as well as really fine man.

Liberal protesters like spoiled children

So what did you expect from the liberals after Trump was elected? Did you think they would act like good sports and, while not affirming the president’s agenda, they would be defferential to the will of the citizens of the U.S. allowing the president to go forward on his agenda with some sort of courtesy and respect?

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Some years ago, a “Celebration of the Life of Tom Yenne” took place at Fair-Mont-Egan School and a huge crowd attended. What made it so unusual was that Tom Yenne was alive at the time. Don Siblerud, now deceased, was one that spearheaded the idea as he felt it would be nice for Tom to actually know how much he was appreciated and loved for his years of service as a high-school bus driver as well as really fine man.

Hearing set for West Glacier RV, cabin project

A proposal to create a recreational vehicle park and rental cabins east near West Glacier takes center stage at the Flathead County Planning Board meeting on Wednesday.

Jerome Francis 'Jerry' Stoick, 85

Jerome Francis “Jerry” Stoick passed away Sunday, April 9, 2017, due to natural causes.   

Continuing education: Variety is the spice of life

Whether it’s a farm-to-table pizza party or instruction about how to play the ukulele, the classes offered through Flathead Valley Community College’s Continuing Education Center are ever evolving with a mission of offering a variety of topics that interest area residents.

Classes for the masses

FVCC’s first continuing ed director created niche for lifelong learners

As Flathead Valley Community College was poised to start a community education program in 1979, Donna Hopkins happened to be in the right place at the right time.

Whitefish writer finds home in Montana movies

For a month, the production crew was scrambling.

Life on campus in FVCC's early years

By KATHERYN HOUGHTON

Montana VA seeking to manage care for vets

This week Congress voted to extend a troubled program to create time to fix the system connecting veterans to health care. Montana Veterans Affairs officials said they hope that fix means more control returned to local hands.

Whitefish seniors celebrate with egg hunt

With Easter weekend approaching, kids are scouring the valley for Easter eggs filled with candy and toys, but kids aren’t the only ones taking part in the Easter fun.

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Flathead Electric Co-op, the board of directors, co-op members and the entire co-op service area will benefit very positively with the addition of Jerry Bygren to the board. I say this in all due respect of a man who has been so successful in the past 40 plus years I have known him.

One last round of much deserved applause

There have been many editorials written in the Daily Inter Lake about the Community Concert Association over the past 78 years, usually to applaud the organization for its tireless service in bringing quality music to the Flathead.

Meals on Wheels program in danger

I enjoyed your article on my uncle (my Mom’s brother) Don Stolte — regarding the local Meals on Wheels program.

Questions for Rob Quist about morality and politics

Given today’s increasing, driving forces for our nation and culture in decay by design, I firmly believe the evidence is all too common that the average voter fails to consider some essential observations prior to casting a vote.

Your voice, your vote

It’s been one laugh after the other in the race between Democrat Rob Quist and Republican millionaire Greg Gianforte.

The Russians are coming, but don't be afraid

You can chalk up one more conservative Trump supporter who got caught talking to Russians and then insisting it was just an innocent conversation!

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Flathead Electric Co-op, the board of directors, co-op members and the entire co-op service area will benefit very positively with the addition of Jerry Bygren to the board. I say this in all due respect of a man who has been so successful in the past 40 plus years I have known him.

Was Obama team working to undermine Trump transition?

WOW! Can this piece-of-work we call the Congress and the drive-by media be any more pathetically one sided? Can their emphasis on character assassination and process overshadow the truth any more than they have obfuscated the truth thus far?

Legislature using hunting amendment as political cover

Montana enjoys the longest hunting and trapping seasons in the West, providing incredible experiences for residents and visitors from around the world. Our coldwater and warmwater fisheries also provide world-class angling opportunities.

Protect Montana heroes from VA bureaucracy

This week marks the three-year anniversary of the earth-shattering scandal involving veteran health care at the Phoenix VA. The deaths of dozens of veterans and needless suffering of thousands more proved the life-threatening dangers of government bureaucracy run amok.

Softball Glacier, Flathead fall to Bison, Rustlers

GREAT FALLS — Glacier and Flathead both dropped Class AA nonconference softball contests in the Electric City on Saturday to the Great Falls High Bison and C.M. Russell Rustlers.

Olsen, Johnson, Hill lead Glacier netters at Missoula

MISSOULA — Glacier’s Brittyn Olsen, McKenna Johnson and Libby Hill were all 2-0 on the day in Western AA tennis dual action with Helena Capital and Helena High.

Bigfork girls, Eureka boys track champs

EUREKA — The Bigfork girls and Eureka boys made strong statements, winning the team track titles at the Eureka Invitational on Saturday afternoon.

Black and Blue batter Bitterroot

The Kalispell Black and Blue rugby team continued its dominant start to the season, routing longtime rival Bitteroot 59-17 on Saturday at Evergreen Junior High.

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Triplett wins round in Billings

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Triplett wins round in Billings

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Triplett wins round in Billings

Victoria M. Tronstad, 63

Vicky passed away peacefully at her home on April 3, 2017, from complications of multiple sclerosis which she dealt with for more than 20 years.

Genevieve Margie Baumann, 77

Genevieve Margie Baumann, 77, longtime Kalispell resident, “left her earthly home” on April 5, 2017.

Louis Mastin Voss, 94

Louis Mastin Voss, 94, passed away peacefully in his sleep on April 1, 2017, while residing at BeeHive Assisted Living in Columbia Falls.

Flathead student brings home silver

Flathead High School student Soren Haagerup brought home a second-place award from the SkillsUSA state competition and leadership conference.

Kalispell FFA students compete at state convention

Kalispell FFA students recently competed at the 87th Annual Montana FFA State Convention in Great Falls.

County clarifies status of Bigfork dock area

A county road easement that historically has been used as a county park near a public dock in Bigfork is a technical conundrum for Flathead County.

BRAIN CANDY

Interactive exhibit shows students ‘A World Inside Your Head’

Educators Michael Jahnke and Eliel Anttila got inside the heads of Olney-Bissell School students Thursday.

FVCC's founders get their day

Crowds of people connected to Flathead Valley Community College throughout its 50 years met at the college Friday night to listen to stories about its earliest moments and leaders.

Bigfork distillery part of trade mission to Japan

Daily Inter Lake

Grant helps Whitefish develop invasive species program

Whitefish Lake Institute has received a $38,500 grant from the

FVCC student honored as a Newman Civic Fellow

A Flathead Valley Community College student received the title of a Newman Civic Fellow for her work to support grandparents acting as caretakers for their grandkids.

When the student becomes the mentor

On a blustery April day in 1979, I walked into the newspaper office in the resort town of Detroit Lakes, Minnesota, and sat down at my desk to begin what is now a 38-year career in journalism. I had worked for a couple of summers at my hometown paper down the road, but this was my first “official” job after college.

Storm blows multiple trees over

A tree reportedly fell into a power line before falling across the road on South Meridian Road near Peterson Elementary. The street was closed down and the tree was removed according to the Kalispell Police Department.

Sex offender wanted in Lake County

A sex offender is wanted by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office after failing to register.

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Polson nets two wins

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Polson nets two wins

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Polson nets two wins

Triplett bucked in Billings

BILLINGS — Columbia Falls bull rider Matt Triplett nearly held on for a heady ride in the first round at the Professional Bull Riders Stanley Performance In Action Invitational, settling for a re-ride and a quick exit on Friday night at the Rimrock Auto Arena at MetraPark.

Flathead, Glacier sweep G-Falls duals

It ended in a flurry of hail and graupel, but before the storm came, Flathead thoroughly dominated Great Falls in a track dual on Friday at Legends Stadium, with both the boys and girls winning handily.

Senate confirms Trump pick Neil Gorsuch to Supreme Court

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Senate confirmed Neil Gorsuch to become the newest associate justice on the Supreme Court Friday, elevating Donald Trump's nominee following a corrosive partisan confrontation that could have lasting impacts for the Senate and the court.

Governor uses veto pen to push mail-only voting

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A mail-only ballot for the May 25 congressional election remains a possibility.

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I am a resident in a nursing home in Eureka. I am very worried about my quality of care as there is an effort to reduce our Medicaid for long-term care. I have MS, diabetic, arthritis and can’t walk. I worked as a Superior Court clerk in San Diego with a leg brace, using a cane until I lost my eyesight in my left eye and had bathroom problems. I took a disability retirement after working 19 years. I only went on Medicaid after entering a nursing home.

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I am a resident in a nursing home in Eureka. I am very worried about my quality of care as there is an effort to reduce our Medicaid for long-term care. I have MS, diabetic, arthritis and can’t walk. I worked as a Superior Court clerk in San Diego with a leg brace, using a cane until I lost my eyesight in my left eye and had bathroom problems. I took a disability retirement after working 19 years. I only went on Medicaid after entering a nursing home.

By mail or not, make sure you vote

There was considerable debate in the Legislature and statewide over whether to hold a mail-only ballot for the special congressional election scheduled for May 25.

Edwards reflects on Gonzaga's Final Four odyssey

“Unbelievable.”

Triplett has winning feeling back

BILLINGS — Matt Triplett is feeling good.

Whitefish sweeps Columbia Falls at FVCC

Whitefish tennis swept a dual with Columbia Falls on Thursday at the Flathead Valley Community College tennis courts.

Big 6th inning leads Big Sky past Polson

POLSON — Polson dropped a tight game with Class AA Missoula Big Sky on Thursday, hanging close until the Eagles burst through in the sixth inning.

Flathead Valley Live on Stage takes a final bow

Flathead Valley Live on Stage, which had operated for more than 70 years as Community Concerts, will promote its final show later this month, the group’s board of directors has decided.

Alleged salesman makes a house call

An elderly woman told Kalispell Police that a man she did not know entered her house while she was napping, woke her up and began trying to sell her a TV. The woman said the man claimed to be from a television company and kept talking to her about her television. The man then used her bathroom and walked out. The woman found nothing missing.

Senate GOP 'goes nuclear,' clearing way for Trump court pick

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republicans invoked the "nuclear option" in the Senate Thursday, unilaterally rewriting the chamber's rules to allow President Donald Trump's nominee to ascend to the Supreme Court.

Democrats block Gorsuch vote; rules change is next step

WASHINGTON (AP) — Senate Democrats have blocked President Donald Trump’s nominee to the Supreme Court.

Spring runoff a challenge for county road crews

A snowy winter that required considerably more manpower to keep county roads plowed and sanded has now created spring water problems throughout Flathead County, Public Works Director Dave Prunty said.

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“Who are all these people trying to kill you?” Freddie asked.

'On Golden Pond'

The Whitefish Theatre Co. will perform the classic drama “On Golden Pond” over two weekends, beginning Friday, April 14.

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“Who are all these people trying to kill you?” Freddie asked.

Poet publishing book on '100 Days of Solitude'

Kalispell poet Amy Pearson, who spent more than three months at a remote fire lookout in the Bob Marshall Wilderness last summer, has created a Kickstarter to publish a book of poetry she wrote during her time there.

Hockaday announces third annual 'A Timeless Legacy' exhibition

The Hockaday Museum of Art will feature 28 women artists beginning in August at “A Timeless Legacy — Women Artists of Glacier National Park.”

Kalispell Air Force veteran self-publishes new book

Kalispell resident James Turner recalls a 1972 family road trip in his debut novel, “Jimmy and Moe.”

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There are laughs, as always, in the Bigfork Community Players’ latest production, but, for a change, that’s probably not all.

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Indie film festival coming to Bigfork

The creators of the Bigfork Film Festival have announced a new spring event, hosting the first Bigfork Indie Film Festival, Saturday, May 6, to screen six independent films created by local filmmakers.

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There are laughs, as always, in the Bigfork Community Players’ latest production, but, for a change, that’s probably not all.

Frenchtown flummoxes Flathead, 10-0

FRENCHTOWN — Flathead floundered against Class A powerhouse Frenchtown on Thursday, falling to the Broncs 10-0 on the road.

You're thinking too much

We already overthink things in sports.

Betty J. Hills, 82

Betty “Jeanie” Hills, of Kalispell, passed away on Tuesday, April 4, 2017. She was 82.

Raymond L. Swanson Jr., 83

Raymond L. Swanson Jr., 83, of Eureka, passed away Monday, April 3, 2017, at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell of natural causes.

Warner Augustus 'Bud' Hatten, 85

Warner Augustus “Bud” Hatten passed away peacefully at home April 2, 2017, at the age of 85.

County pawn law heads toward final approval

The second reading of a county-wide pawnbroker ordinance to help law enforcement officers recover stolen property was approved Monday by the Flathead County commissioners.

Stuffed animals found in wooded grave

While walking in the woods off Tally Lake Road, a woman reported finding a rectangle of earth that had been recently dug up. According to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office, when she and her boyfriend dug in the spot with a stick, they allegedly discovered several stuffed animals buried and stopped digging for fear of what else they would find.

Former Libby mayor sues Western News

Former Libby Mayor Doug Roll is suing The Western News for alleged defamation, civil conspiracy and actual malice related to newspaper articles written last year by then-editor Robert “Bob” Henline.

Health portal offers new resource for Montana workers

The Montana Department of Labor and Industry recently launched a new portal to provide information on workplace health and safety in an effort to make Montana’s workplaces more safe.

Flashy start for Flathead, Glacier

Flathead kicked off the track and field season with a bang, winning every boys event and 14 of 17 girls events at the season-opening triangular against Libby and Whitefish on Tuesday at Legends Stadium.

Core Area zoning plan approved by council

The Kalispell City Council unanimously approved the first reading of the Core Area B-3 zoning plan in a meeting Monday night at City Hall.

Man admits to 2016 fishing spear attack

A Columbia Falls man admitted on March 30 to attacking his parents with a fishing spear in April 2016.

Dorothy Ann 'Dottie' Riley, 85

Dorothy Ann Riley, 85, better known as Dottie to friends and family, passed away peacefully at her home in Columbia Falls, March 29, 2017, with family members at her bedside.

Judy Roehl, 76

Julia Ellan Mostad Roehl, 76, of Loveland, Colorado, suddenly “went on to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ” on March 9, 2017, due to a pulmonary embolism.

Fundraising supports local student

Evergreen Junior High Assistant Principal and Athletic Director Shaun Forrest can feel the breeze a little better on his newly shaven head, done at the hands of students and teachers.

Women's Foundation of Montana announces grants

Projects will support female entrepreneurship, financial education

Volunteer talks about village life

In the front of the room of most Bigfork meetings is a man with greying hair who often slips jokes into speeches he delivers from a bullet-point list in his head. Though Paul Mutascio has acted as one of the unofficial leaders of the village for more than a decade, he never expected a community in Montana would become his home — let alone his biggest project.

Donald Richard Franchi, 77

Donald Richard Franchi, 77, passed away on March 29, 2017, surrounded by love at his home in Marion.

Injured hiker rescued on Columbia Mountain

An injured hiker from Pennsylvania was recovered by Two Bear Air Sunday afternoon after wandering off the trails of Columbia Mountain and reportedly falling off a cliff.

Alleged bird-napper flies the coop

An alleged bird-napping was reported to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office when a woman reportedly went to a man’s house and told him his pet birds were sick. The man told authorities that he did not know the woman, but when she offered to take his birds to a vet, he helped her load them into her car and paid her. The man said he then followed the woman to what he thought was a vet but turned out to be her house. The man said he has not gotten a further response from the woman about getting his birds back.

An idea, an election and a beginning

The newspaper headlines in 1966 told Flathead County residents about deeper trenches in Vietnam, an increase in local mumps cases and the possibility of a college in Kalispell.

All rescued dogs find homes, shelter sees rise in animal cases

By KATHERYN HOUGHTON

FVCC to hold 50th anniversary celebration on Friday

Flathead Valley Community College invites the community to celebrate its 50th anniversary on April 7 at a free event on campus. Founders’ Day will take place in the Arts and Technology Building from 5 to 8 p.m. and will feature a special 50th anniversary tribute, historic displays, live music and complimentary food samplings.

Man denies meth distribution charges

A man from Flathead County denied allegations that he sold meth to an undercover informant.

Woman admits to burglary caught on camera

A 24-year-old woman admitted to taking part in the burglary of a sawmill back in May 2016.

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Right now the U.S. Congress is in the midst of a fierce debate over the future of our nation’s health-care system. In the midst of this very important discussion about a subject that impacts every American, it would have been easy to overlook a program aimed at helping one little town in far Northwest Montana.

Seeing health care from a business perspective

It was bound to happen — sooner or later. Finally one genuine writer to the editor has the emotional character to discuss a national political issue without boring us with their obnoxious partisan slant. Thank you, Mr. Joseph D. Coco, for your refreshing thoughts, neither Democrat nor Republican, but American. This should be reprinted often for benefit of those who raise or teach children to show the kids that to have an open mind and their own ideas, their thoughts cannot be clouded by political party lines. You are what America used to be, Mr. Coco.

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Right now the U.S. Congress is in the midst of a fierce debate over the future of our nation’s health-care system. In the midst of this very important discussion about a subject that impacts every American, it would have been easy to overlook a program aimed at helping one little town in far Northwest Montana.

FVCC: 50 years and growing

An important milestone is being celebrated this week as the community marks the 50th anniversary of the vote to approve the start of a community college in Kalispell.

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Why would Mr. Gianforte think we forgot the reasons that brought about his defeat in the last election? The lawsuit against the state of Montana regarding access for sportsmen. His referring to a discussion about Facebook building a data center in Montana. Facebook stated that no such discussion ever took place. Damaged credibility is very difficult to restore. I don’t believe Mr. Gianforte can restore his by election day. —Peter Daniels, Polson

Are voting rules keeping women out of Congress?

April marks a memorable centennial. On April 2, 1917, Jeannette Rankin, R-Montana, was sworn in as the first woman ever elected to Congress. Her election not only marked a milestone in the struggle for women’s political equality but provides a lesson about the importance of fair voting rules.

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Why would Mr. Gianforte think we forgot the reasons that brought about his defeat in the last election? The lawsuit against the state of Montana regarding access for sportsmen. His referring to a discussion about Facebook building a data center in Montana. Facebook stated that no such discussion ever took place. Damaged credibility is very difficult to restore. I don’t believe Mr. Gianforte can restore his by election day. —Peter Daniels, Polson

Creston auction action

Send your legislators a message: Get it done

Last week we learned Montana leads the nation in job growth. Our unemployment rate is nearing historic lows while more Montanans are at work than ever. And we have a stable business climate that allows both our small and large businesses in communities across the state to grow, expand, and create more good-paying jobs.

Montana House resurrects infrastructure bill to keep 'options open'

HELENA — The Montana House unexpectedly agreed Saturday to reconsider an infrastructure bill that had been killed the day before because of objections by fiscal conservatives over issuing $78 million in bonds.

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Why would Mr. Gianforte think we forgot the reasons that brought about his defeat in the last election? The lawsuit against the state of Montana regarding access for sportsmen. His referring to a discussion about Facebook building a data center in Montana. Facebook stated that no such discussion ever took place. Damaged credibility is very difficult to restore. I don’t believe Mr. Gianforte can restore his by election day. —Peter Daniels, Polson

Polson softball splits doubleheader

POLSON — Polson softball split a doubleheader on Saturday afternoon, topping Butte Central 9-2 and falling to Belgrade by the same score.

Black & Blue pummel Spokane

Black & Blue pummel Spokane

Strong start for Glacier boys

The Daily Inter Lake

Eureka boys, win Ronan track invite; Libby girls 2nd

RONAN — Cannan Smith won two events — the javelin (170-2) and 110 hurdles (16.01) — and Owen Daniels took first place in the shot put (48-3 1/2) to help Eureka claim the team title at the Ronan Invitational track and field meet on Saturday.

'America First' is an old and honorable tradition

It never ceases to amaze me how little educated people seem to understand history — let alone learn from it.

Caregivers leave lasting gifts

There are caregivers of all kinds among us — here are a few recent stories of their good work.

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TODay

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TODay

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TODay

'Visionary' civic leaders set the stage for FVCC

In 1967, three people sat around a table in the top floor of the Kalispell Public Library with a typewriter between them and a bullet-point plan to create a community college.

James H. DeShais, 90

James H. DeShais, 90, passed away peacefully March 31, 2017, at North Valley Hospital with family by his side.

Vehicle gets unwelcome serving of 'yogurt'

A man allegedly poured what appeared to be yogurt on a caller’s vehicle. The caller told Columbia Falls Police that he believed it was the same man who he had reported regarding a road rage incident the week before. He believed that the man was “possibly on drugs or something.”

Stephen Alston Wilson, 79

Stephen Alston Wilson, beloved husband, father and “Gramps,” passed away peacefully at his home in Kalispell on Wednesday, March 29, 2017, with his loving wife and children at his side.

Betty Lorraine (Kezar) Hutchison, 94

Betty Lorraine (Kezar) Hutchison, 94, passed away on March 16, 2017, at Heritage Place, in Kalispell of natural causes.

Naedene Belle Seymour, 90

Naedene Belle Seymour was born in a birthing home on May 29, 1926, in Montesano, Washington, to loving parents, Arthur and Belle Foss. Naedene grew up as an only child in Portland where her dad was a superintendent of a plywood plant and her mom was a homemaker.

Karen Gayle (Weed) Tipp, 78

Karen Gayle (Weed) Tipp, 78, passed away Thursday, March 30, 2017, surrounded by her entire family.

Gottlieb Peter 'Lee' Brockel, 88

Gottlieb Peter “Lee” Brockel, 88, died March 29, 2017, in Las Vegas.

Janet Lee Summers, 59

Janet Lee Summers, 59, passed away on Monday, March 27, 2017, in Kalispell following a battle this past year with cancer.