Wednesday, August 30
Bulldog cross-country team has high hopes
Last year, the cross-country team's mantra was, "Next year we'll be able to compete," said Whitefish High School cross-country coach Bill Brist.
Thanks from Chris' Tea Cottage
To all of our Patrons, Guests and valued Supporters,
Letters to the Editor
Public Service Commission race
Magdalyn Brosten
Belva Magdalyn Strand Brosten was born July 9, 1921 at Grenora, North Dakota to Meinert and Beulah Caldwell Strand. She passed away on Aug. 7, 2006, in Lewistown, Mont. Magdalyn lived on her father's homestead at Fortuna, North Dakota until the age of five when the family moved to the Flathead Valley. She attended Mountain Brook School for six years where her mother was the teacher. She attended Central Junior High School in Kalispell and graduated from Flathead County High School, Class of 1938.
Apology to Christina
Updated report about the opera singer, Julie Kierstine, who sang for us on Mt. Oberlin, August 3. She did send me a CD and her voice is world class operatic soprano. Yes, I do plan to take it up on Mt. Oberlin for a concert this fall. Bob Z took a picture of Julie so an enlargement will be sitting on a rock while we have the concert.
Letter from the editor
Chocolate faith
Lake View Care Center responds
After reading the article written by Tyler Christiansen posted on 8/21/06 in the Missoulian regarding area nursing homes, I felt the need to respond. My name is Brent Smith and I am the Administrator of Lake View Care Center in Bigfork, Montana.
Wrong Values for Moms, Dads and Children
For State Senate District 5, candidates Ric Smith and Verdell Jackson have very differing views. I have researched both candidates and am convinced that Ric Smith shares my views, and the values of our community.
Labor Day safety
The Labor Day holiday weekend presents risk of at-home accidents and injuries as families and friends gather for the last BBQs, neighborhood block and pool parties of summer. A recent survey reveals that Americans are concerned about emergencies that would prompt 9-1-1 calls including a fear of robberies, burglaries and break-ins both at their home (nearly 90 percent) and at a neighbor's home (88 percent); drowning (87 percent); serious falls during home repairs (87 percent).
Donald Porter
Donald William Porter, 89, a longtime resident of Whitefish, died Aug. 18, 2006, of natural causes.
Le Grizz
The 25th annual Le Grizz 50 Mile Ultramarathon is Saturday, Oct. 14 along the west side of Hungry Horse Reservoir. The foot race, sponsored by the Cheetah Herders Athletic Club, is managed primarily to get first-time ultra-distance runners to the finish line. The completion rate over the past 24 years of the event is 95 percent.
Bones to pick
So Boy Wonder and I were poking around in this favorite old woods the other day. He climbed a tree and I poked around, just sort of looking for stuff.
Thursday, August 24
Seeing double: Whitefish has two goalies
The Whitefish soccer team has a problem, but according to head coach O'Brien Byrd, it's a good problem to have.
Huckleberry Festival
To the Bigfork Eagle and Mike Richeson and his staff: Thanks for the 25 years you have supported the Swan Lake Huckleberry Festival.
Franklin John Palicz
Franklin John Palicz, age 81, passed away at his home in Kalispell, Mont., on Aug. 15, 2006. He was born Nov. 22, 1924 in Omaha, Neb., to Andrew and Margaret (Marten) Palicz.
Memories of Spotted Bear
The weekend of July the 20th, (1985) was a biggy at Spotted Bear Ranger Station for dozens of us who had been associated with that wilderness outpost of the U.S. Forest Service. When I first got the written invite to the dedication of the new log Ranger Station, I felt insulted because it said they were inviting all the "old timers". I called Forest headquarters and raised hell about being called "old". The young man on the line explained that was just a term they used for anyone who worked there forty or more years ago.
A dangerous and deceptive initiative
Since I grew up in a rural community, and Froid was my hometown, I appreciate the importance of your local newspaper.
Go vegan
If you think the production of foie gras is a cruel process, you might be interested in what goes on in the production of other animal-for-food products. I won't get into it here, but I recommend a book by John Robbins titled The Food Revolution to anyone interested in finding out the truth about the barbaric practices used in the animals for food industry. The book is not about opinions on the subject; it contains well researched facts.
Letter from the editor
Art on display
William Van Ham
William Frederick Van Ham, 64, of Miles City, passed away Aug. 17, 2006, at the Holy Rosary Heath Care Center, in Miles City.
A long line of corrupt leaders
I have been interested in politics ever since Hoover blew the whistle, Mellon rang the bell, Wall Street gave the signal and the country went to hell.
William Baldridge
William Gregory Baldridge passed away Aug. 13, 2006, at the Montana State Veterans Home.
Funds needed for school program
The Whitefish Community Center has decided to suspend the start of after-school programs for grades K-4 until additional funds are raised.
Turn off the music and exercise
Editor's Note: The following letter was also sent to the board of directors of The Wave.
Letters to the Editor
Sign destruction
Garold McConnell
Garold Melvin McConnell, 88, passed away peacefully in his sleep at North Valley Community Hospital Aug. 18, 2006, after a short illness.
Wednesday, August 23
Flint party
There is a Boy Scout retirement party for Fred Flint, Friday, Aug. 25 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. at Marantette Park. Troop 1941 will honor Scoutmaster Fred Flint for his 18 years of outstanding service and commitment to our boys and the community. We would like to invite every one in the community to join us in this celebration. Please RSVP with the number of people in your party to 892-3026 or 892-2930 or 892-7490.
Sun Dog fire under attack
Blaze about 20 miles north of Columbia Falls, forces road closures
Thursday, August 17
Signs of the times
On Saturday night, August 12th, dozens of signs opposing the Milhous Kootenai Condo development were systematically destroyed. These signs were posted on private properties along Sunburst Drive in Ferndale. Many signs were addressed to the Lake County Commissioners. Their destruction represents a direct attempt to deny citizens the constitutional guarantees of "freedom of speech" and the right to address the Government for a redress of grievances.
Dismayed by Wave dispute
Editor's note: The following letter was sent to The Wave's board of directors:
Beautiful music in the wild
Strange and exotic things can happen in the high places. On the morning of Aug. 3, two members of The Thursday Over the Hill Gang were working their way with me up the second tier of waterfalls near the base of Mount Oberlin midst one of Glacier Park's most beautiful collections of vast scenery, wild flowers, crystal ponds, wildlife and red rock formations. It is a giant amphitheater overflowing with all mother nature's miracles on the Crown of the Continent.
Letters to the Editor
Firefighter Recruiting
Protests planned for Cheney's visit
Vice President Dick Cheney was scheduled to visit Whitefish on Wednesday in a fund-raising effort for embattled Montana Sen. Conrad Burns, who is running neck-and-neck with Democratic challenger Jon Tester in recent election polls and fund-raising efforts.
Property rights have a history
"….promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity."
John Pohl
John R. Pohl, a resident of Whitefish, formerly of Dayton, Ohio, passed away after injuries sustained in a traffic accident on Aug. 9, 2006, near Dixon.
Letter from the editor
Scientific bullies
Olson named new Whitefish hoops coach
Twenty-five years after playing basketball under coach Julio Delgado, Tim Olson is joining ranks with his former coach to help lead the Whitefish High School basketball program.
The Wave protects diversity
I would like to respond to Ms. Coco's letter about diversity at The Wave. As a long-time member (since the grand opening) I have seen a lot of changes at The Wave driven by members' requests, demands and complaints, as well as the management just trying to streamline operations.
James Boerner
James (Jim) Vincent Boerner, 80, of Whitefish, entered into his eternal rest Aug.10, 2006, at his home in Mountain View Manor.
Montana boys win regional golf tourney
The Montana boys defeated the Alberta boys for only the second time in the 14-year history of the Montana/Alberta Cup last week at Whitefish Lake Golf Course.
Sports
Chandler Melton / Whitefish Pilot
Thanks to the Sheriff's Department
During one of the recent violent wind and thunder storms, my family, consisting of myself, my husband and our two dogs, found ourselves, if not literally, definitely figuratively in deep water.
Letter
We have been visiting the Bigfork area for many years as children and adults. We own a home in the area and entertain family and friends from all over the region throughout the year. Often times we treat ourselves to an evening out, which might include attending the wonderful shows at the Bigfork Playhouse Theater and/or eating a meal on the town. We had the pleasure of eating at Moroldo's Fine Italian Ristorante this evening. WOW… what an outstanding meal. The service was wonderful, the food a 5 star rating, and the lovely atmosphere and staff made it a memorable experience. The Moroldo family landed in Bigfork by accident, and we would love to keep them here for years to come. If you want a great meal with a child- friendly atmosphere, then Moroldo's is for you. Order the Tiramisu regardless of how full you may think you are…you won't regret it.
Roger Smith
Roger Edward Smith, 65, passed away Aug. 13, 2006, at his home in Libby with his wife Merry at his side.
Growth policy comments
I was pleased to see that a good number of valley residents took time to comment on the Flathead County Growth Policy draft last week. I must commend the members of the planning board and planning staff for their diligence, and for being
Kathy Cantu
Kathy Ann (Sandefur) Cantu, 50, "passed into the arms of our Savior, the Lord Jesus," on Aug. 7, 2006, at Healthcenter Northwest, in Kalispell.
Mr. Richeson,
Have just read your editorial in the August 10 issue of the Bigfork Eagle and very much appreciate the honor you gave to World War II veterans. I am one of those, serving in the US Navy in the midst of the battles in the South Pacific in a Fleet Tanker under Admiral (Bull) Halsey's Third Fleet, and one of the fortunate to come back alive. Having joined the Navy at the age of 17 in 1943, I also lied about my age, and served until the war's end. I will be attending my 20th annual Navy Reunion in Farragut, Idaho, September 8th through 10th. This will be our final reunion because of the few of us that are left. Thank you for your interesting article.
Wednesday, August 16
Bears have some Park trails closed
Hungry Horse News
FBI part of Red Eagle fire investigation
Investigators from the state, the Park Service and the FBI are expected to take a second look at the Red Eagle Fire this week.
Thursday, August 10
Letter from the editor
The giants among us
Honor Montanans with tax rebate
My Republican father would say it's a sad day for his party when Democrats come up with a better property tax rebate plan. My Democratic mom would laugh and say she knew she was right all along in raising an independent minded child.
Cal Ripken team gives it their all
It was a great pleasure to be in Eugene, Ore., this past week to watch the 11-year-old state champion Cal Ripken baseball team in action.
More important issues than music
Talk about the ultimate "tempest in a teapot." I just returned from Europe, where the conversation is Israel, Iraq, Darfur and the probable next terrorist attack on Great Britain. Also, lest I forget, Italy's victory in the World Cup.
Letters to the Editor
Bigfork Farmer's Market
John Sitton
John Allan "Jack" Sitton, 70, peacefully "slipped into the arms of his Savior" surrounded by family on July 30, 2006. Between his fighting spirit and the support of his wife, he lived a full life for 2 1/2 years after hearing he only had weeks to live. He was sustained by the prayers and support of those who knew and loved him.
Invitations sent out for Cheney, Burns visit
The office of Vice President Dick Cheney has confirmed an Aug. 16 appearance in Whitefish to raise funds for Sen. Conrad Burns' re-election campaign.
True stories
My Daughter Jan told me this true story.
Has Image
Jean Yarnell (Foster, Winter)
Christopher John Shupert
Christopher John Shupert, 25, died at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on August 2, 2006, from natural causes. He was born in Kalispell, MT on July 5, 1981. He was the second of three sons born to Dan and Jeri Shupert. Christopher spent his childhood life in Trego and the remainder of his life in Kalispell.
Diverse town, diverse values
I am getting tired of reading about all of those "deeply offended" by the disallowing of Christian music in their cycling class.
Sports Briefs
The Wave Golf Scramble will take place at the Whitefish Lake Golf Course on Aug. 19 beginning at 2 p.m. The event is a fund-raiser for The Wave's scholarship program and the Youth Swim Club. Prizes include $15,000 in cash for a hole-in-one, longest drive and closest to the pin. Team entry fee is $300. For more information, call The Wave at 862-2444.
Caboose update
In response to those who are concerned about the Red Caboose diner, the city's architectural review committee has told me the caboose is in substantial compliance with the design plans the city approved.
Dorothy Brumbeloe Johnson
Dorothy Brumbeloe Johnson, 86, passed away on Saturday, August 5, 2006 at the Immanuel Lutheran Home in Kalispell, Montana. She was born on June 22, 1920 in Roanoke, Alabama to James Bracy and Anne Haden (Reid) Brumbeloe.
Alberta/Montana Cup kicks off
Chandler Melton / Whitefish Pilot
Lily Ediger
Ediger, 93, of Whitefish and formerly of Wolf Point, died Aug. 4, 2006, at Colonial Manor.
What do you think should happen with the six acres of
Flathead County-owned green space in the Lake Hills
Wednesday, August 9
Swim team takes 7th at state meet
The Columbia Falls swim team took seventh overall at the state tournament held last weekend in Conrad.
Heritage Days wrap-up
An interesting and good Heritage Day Committee meeting was conducted by Matt McConville, president. One of the purposes was to discuss the events' successes, disappointments and general opinions.
Thursday, August 3
Michael Steckler
Michael William Steckler, 60, passed away July 26, 2006, at Health Center Northwest, in Kalispell, after a courageous battle with mesothelioma (asbestos caused) lung cancer for almost two years.
'Making waves'
I am a member of The Wave in Whitefish and had been a faithful attendee of Bob Bouillon's 5:30 a.m. cycling class. By nature, I prefer to avoid conflict, but The Wave board's recent decision to ban Christian music has prompted me to make a public point and to "make waves," so to speak.
The real property tax reduction
We have come to expect half-truths and spins early in a national campaign, but Mike Jopek is starting pretty early for a Montana legislator. The Republican Handshake with Montana promised a property tax decrease months before the Democrat's Square Deal.
Letters to the Editor
Rockin' for Ravenwood
Headphones the answer to music dilemma?
Recent issues at The Wave remind us that tastes have varied since before the Romans (de gustibus non disputandem).
Shirley M. Frayer
Shirley Marguerite Frayer (nee Erickson) born 03/21/1939 was peacefully united with heaven on Thursday 07/27/2006 at 7:50 p.m. at St. Joseph's hospital in Atlanta, GA.
Belize volunteer in need of support
My name is Monica Senin, and apart from the past four years I spent at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C., I have lived all of my life in Whitefish.
William Kennedy
William J. "Pete" Kennedy, 92, passed away July 24, 2006, at Colonial Manor in Whitefish. He was born July 26, 1913, in Kansas City, Mo., to William A. and Marie (Feeney) Kennedy.
Habitat works for Flathead families
While the beautiful Big Sky country draws more and more middle and upper class individuals into Montana every year, the low-income population and the need for affordable housing is also rising. In October 1989, Montana graciously welcomed Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley, the first Habitat affiliate of the state.
Barbara Anne Ristine
Barbara Anne Ristine, age 57, passed away on Tuesday, July 25, 2006 at her residence in Kalispell, Montana. She was born on May 4, 1949 at Huntington, Indiana the daughter of Norbert and Margaret (Young) Karst.
Bigfork Eagle editorial
Power of the pedal
Our Busybody World
I was just kidding when I told management at the Summit Health Club I was going to resign if they didn't get a "Smoking Room."
From Tee to Green
Golf course wear patterns
William J. "Pete" Kennedy
William J. "Pete" Kennedy, age 92, passed away July 24, 2006 at Colonial Manor in Whitefish, Montana. He was born July 26, 1913 in Kansas City, Missouri to William A. and Marie (Feeney) Kennedy.
Wednesday, August 2
46 teams competed in annual 3-on-3 tourney
Hungry Horse News
Boogie to the Bank draws a big crowd
Hungry Horse News
Horsemen meet
The Back Country Horsemen of the Flathead will hold their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 8 at 7:30 p.m., at the Fish, Wildlife and Parks Building, located at 490 North Meridian Road. The meeting is open to the public and all are welcome.
Football practice starts next week
Hungry Horse News
