Wednesday, October 25
Mosquito levy not right, not needed
In June 2006, voters defeated a tax levy for a Mosquito Control District for a variety of reasons. Now the commissioners have put the tax increase back on the ballot for November.
Lavina Rose Eslick, 78
Lavina Rose Eslick, 78, passed away on Thursday, October 5, 2006 at her home in Bigfork, Montana following a short battle with cancer. She was born on August 16, 1928 on Swan River to Ludwig "Happy" and Clarice (Chapman) Rost, one of seven children.
O'Neil will deliver justice
The news media has recently reported problems with collections of fines in the Flathead County Justice Court. There is more. There are sometimes long delays in decisions being handed down. I have knowledge of several such cases awaiting decisions, one dating from 2001. I do not know the reasons such long delays nor will I speculate, but the public is not being well served. Changes are needed. A part of the solution might lie in one of the candidates running for that office, Jerry O'Neil.
Bigfork Neighborhood Plan
Land-use planning is a serious, and contentious, issue in Bigfork and Flathead County. This topic deserves thoughtful discourse and factual information regarding the costs, challenges, opportunities, and consequences we face as more people choose to live here. Land use affects everything from traffic, economy, taxes, water, to community character, etc.
Alexander Lodinoff
Alexander Lodinoff, 80, passed away Oct. 18, 2006, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
Fifty deer in a tree
Are there more deer here in the Flathead Valley than there were when the first homesteading began in the late twentieth century? I don't know, but there are certainly a lot more whitetails than there were seventy years ago when I was in second grade. I know there are also more deer here in the valley than there were even during World War II when there weren't many hunters thinning them out.
Break for renters
I am a homeowner in Whitefish. However, I agree that there needs to be a tax break for renters.
Flag thieves
On Saturday, Oct. 14, the VFW Post 276 of Whitefish lost Old Glory, which had so proudly flown there before.
A salute to Jackson
Join me in supporting Verdell Jackson for the Montana State Senate. Verdell is a long time resident of District #5 and understands clearly the concerns of the people of the greater Flathead. His tireless work and commitment as a four term member of the House of Representatives has provided him unmatched insights and vision into the specific issues which affect all of the communities and citizens of this Senate District.
Just do it
Is it Nov. 7 yet?
Smith will keep Montana on course
Twelve years ago, then U.S. Representative Newt Gingrich, was able to return the Republicans to power under his "Contract With America," promising to restore high ethics standards. It was high time. In a single decade though, the Congress has created a "Congressional/Lobbying Complex."
Smith has solutions
There are many problems in America today and no simple solutions. It seems obvious to me that if we were to invest wisely in public education, many of society's problems would melt away.
Harriers place third at State
The Whitefish girls and boys cross-country teams both ran to third place finishes at the state cross-country meet in Helena last weekend.
Generous folks
On Oct. 19, I had the privilege of helping run a fund-raiser for a friend recently diagnosed with a cancer. When I first conceived of the fund-raiser, I thought how important it would be to invite the incredibly generous "Who's Who" of Whitefish, so I began making calls.
Four reasons for Burns
I will vote for Conrad Burns for these reasons:
A Republican for a Democrat
This Republican is supporting Mark Crowley for Commissioner!
Flathead needs Crowley
As I review the information about the candidates running for the Flathead County Commissioners race, I am going to look for the candidate who is best qualified for the job. This isn't just any job. Because of where Flathead County is now in 2006, this position needs a professional who knows the ins and outs of county government and is also knowledgeable about developers improving a community. I am looking for the candidate who is willing to step up to the plate to help Flathead County move forward. That candidate is Mark Crowley.
Jerry Langton
Jerry Dennis Langton packed a lot of living into his 57 years of life. Always ready for a good time and surrounded by friends, Jerry spent endless hours riding his Harley, golfing, fishing and camping. He was also an avid snowmobiler prior to losing a courageous fight with cancer.
Edna Tietz
Edna Pauline Tietz, 91, "claimed the victory with the Lord" on Oct. 15, 2006.
Thomas Murphy Foley
Our beloved "Smilin' Murphy" "passed over the Great Divide" on Oct. 18, 2006.
Wednesday, October 18
Jackson is a statesman
Like all elections in these chaotic times, the upcoming election will have critical outcomes for Montana. It is imperative that the voters make their choice based on an accurate perception of the capabilities and intentions of the candidates. Too many over eager candidates take a short cut to public office by attacking the character and distorting the views of their opponent. While attacking their opponents, these deceitful candidates almost always attempt to avoid public scrutiny by saying as little as possible about their own views and intentions and that only in very general, politically correct language.
Past life confusion
Oh, my goodness. Now I'm really confused.
Michael C. Click
Michael C. Click, 58, passed away of natural causes on Oct. 11, 2006, at the North Valley Hospital.
Enough with the honors
It is my wish that friends clearly understand, "George O did not seek nor did he ask for the wonderful things that happened to him last week in Missoula." That said! Please let me share one of the proudest times of my 78 years of life.
Real past lives
I am not making fun of anyone's religion or beliefs. However, I would like to know how come no one is ever Joe Blow or Jane Doe in a past life?
Carol Martha (Kahn) Schlegel
Carol Martha (Kahn) Schlegel, age 72, passed from this life to the next on Wednesday, October 11, 2006 at her home in Kalispell, Montana, on a cloud of love, good wished and prayers. She was born August 22, 1934 in Malta, Montana to George and Lillian (Evenson) Kahn.
Harriers sweep at divisionals
The Whitefish boys and girls cross-country teams took first place in the Northwestern A Divisional Championship at the Silver Fox Country Club in Pablo on Saturday, with nine Bulldogs runners receiving all-conference status.
Smith supports public access
Every once in a while you come across a point of view that really resonates. So much so, you'd swear the person who expressed the view took every word right out of your own mind. You read it, and you say, "Hey, that's exactly what I think."
Cecil Zachary, 74
Cecil Zachary, 74, died Wednesday, Oct. 11, 2006, at his Bigfork home.
Questions about Bill Jones
Recently I received some campaign literature from Dr. Bill Jones, a dentist practicing in Kalispell. Dr. Jones is running for HD #9. It has been interesting to observe the political maneuvering in which Dr. Jones was involved, first filing for HD#8, but later filing for HD#9. Who is Dr. Bill Jones? Is he a member of the Westside-Kalispell Community or is he a member of the Creston-Bigfork Community.
Jackson up to date on issues
Verdell Jackson is the most qualified candidate for Senate District 5. His experience on the Health and Human Services, Agriculture, Education, Taxation, and Appropriation committees in the legislature is invaluable. He also served on the Education Select committee and currently serves on the State Administration and Veterans Affairs committee. Because of his expertise, he was selected by this committee to carry their bill during the special session. During the 2005 session, the Republican leadership placed him on the Appropriations Committee because of his financial ability. His integrity and service to the Flathead Valley is evident in his voting record which reflect his principles as stated in his platform: "Strive for a small, efficient government that takes care of the truly needy, keeps us safe, builds and maintains infrastructure and provides the best education we can afford; protect individual freedom and rights, especially property rights and the right to have access to our water and public lands; develop good paying job opportunities, especially for our young people; manage our forests, rather than watch them burn each summer and leave more money in your pocket by increasing revenue by increasing productivity, not by raising taxes."
Steering Committee column
I must take umbrage with your editorial letter of 10/12/06 regarding the Bigfork Steering Committee (BSC.)
Cheers to the Jug Tree
We had a 5 day visit to your fine town this week, and found it to be very hospitable and, of course, beautiful! One event that was of notice to us was the wonderful customer service of the folks at the liquor store. We actually were not even looking for any alcoholic beverages, but rather a gift for friends, and happened to spot ceramic plates on sale in the window. The staff were not really sure where the plates were located in the back of the store, but spent time looking.
Jackson, Beck will listen to constituents
Verdell Jackson is running for Senate District #5 in the November election. Mr. Jackson, while serving as a four term State Representative has been a genuine asset to his constituents. He is responsive to citizen requests for help and he goes about his work with enthusiasm and legislative skills to bring about positive results. While serving on the Board of Directors of the Ashley Lake Property Owners Association, I had the personal opportunity to observe Mr. Jackson demonstrate diligence and political courage. A dangerous situation of unmarked water hazards in Ashley and other Montana lakes resulted in many boating accidents over the years. We learned, to our dismay, that no citizen, association, group or even the County or State could place a hazard marker without becoming subject to civil liability. An appeal to Representative Jackson brought prompt results. Although he had to fight through legal obstacles as well as persons who thought that hazard markers are visually offensive, Mr. Jackson was able to shepherd the passage of House Bill 79 to the Governor's desk for signature. This law relieves private citizens and non-profit organizations of any liability for hazard marker placement except in cases of gross negligence. Now many of the most dangerous water hazards are marked for the safety of boaters, fishermen and swimmers and "Good Samaritans" that mark water hazards, in accordance with the guidance provided by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, no longer have to fear civil retribution for their efforts in promoting public safety. We need a man of high ethical standards who quickly responds to the people who elected him.
Smith looks out for family
Forty years ago, a wise US Senator said, The moral test of government is how that government treats those in the dawn of life, the children; those in the twilight of life, the elderly; and those in the shadows of life - the sick, the needy and the handicapped.
Dirty campaign
The one-page flyer in my mail Sept. 25 stated, "Violent sexual predators are out there." The flip side stated that "Jon Tester failed."
Runaway juvenile found in motel room
A request for a welfare check last week led to the arrest of a Bigfork man who was sharing his room with a 15-year-old runaway girl from Washington.
Call for support
Dear voters of House District 9,
Blackler will make a difference
Every once in a while someone comes along to throw his or her hat into the political arena who has the heart which drives committed service and remarkable dedication to the community he would represent. Mr. Edd Blackler, candidate for House District 9, is that unique person.
Protect the Peregrines
Miles City, Montana, 10/19/2006: The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (MFWP), is holding a commission meeting in Miles City. One of the scheduled topics of discussion is the Peregrine Falcon Harvest Rule (scheduled to be discussed @ 9:15am). This topic will cover the allowed "take" of wild peregrine falcons from an eyrie (nesting ledge) by licensed falconers for the purpose of hunting.
Support for Jackson
I support Verdell Jackson for Senate District #5. During his tenure as State Representative, Verdell has proven himself to be a strong advocate for the law enforcement community and our criminal justice system. In an era when criminals are able to operate behind an electronic mask, the criminal statutes of our state must rapidly catch up with the global economy and crime.
Us and them
It's election time, and once again I find myself interviewing one candidate after another. One thing that stands out, after dredging through my notes for past and present candidates, is how issues can be portrayed in terms of "us versus them" — and I don't mean Republicans versus the Democrats.
School cheers
I would like to comment on the cheering in the Whitefish Middle School section at the homecoming football game.
Shutter speed
Eight hundred.
Margaret Berg
Margaret Catherine Berg, 60, died Oct. 11, 2006 at her home due to a heart condition.
Enjoyed event
I would like to express my thanks to the Whitefish Community Foundation for the wonderful event that was organized and implemented on Oct. 5. It was the perfect way to give out grants, involve donors in the process and have a general "get together" once a year.
Wednesday, October 11
John Graziano
John P. Graziano, 91, of Basking Ridge, N.J., passed away Oct. 1, 2006.
Tester's abortion stance
Jon Tester says he'd like abortions to be "Fewer" and "Rare." But he's aligned with Planned Parenthood whose abortion to adoption ratio is 180 to 1 (99.5% Abortions); and whose abortion to birth ratio is 14 to 1 (93% Abortions).
Whitefish golf teams great at state
Both the boys and girls golf teams captured first-place honors last week in Class A State played at the Butte Country Club. The boys won by a lopsided 41 strokes over second-place Havre, while the girls rolled to an easy 19-shot victory over the Blue Ponies.
The Penn Stohr Airport
"There are old pilots and there are bold pilots, but there are no old bold pilots."
Task force member responds on wilderness
I usually skip anything written by Dave Skinner. When I saw my name mentioned in Dave's opinion letter in the Whitefish Pilot's Sept. 28th issue, I figured I better read what he had to say about me.
Irene Knapton
Irene Knapton passed away Sept. 29, 2006, at the age of 85.
Grateful for firemen, friends
We'd like to thank the Whitefish and Columbia Falls fire departments for their speedy response when we awoke to our house burning in the middle of Sunday night.
Alberta Cuffe
Alberta "Bert" Cuffe, 101, a longtime Whitefish resident, passed away at the Colonial Manor Nursing Home in Whitefish of natural causes.
Verna Somerville
Verna R. Somerville, 96, died Oct. 4, 2006, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center, after a short illness.
Speech and debate needs support
As the community of Whitefish struggles with city planning, let us not lose sight of the primary objective — community.
Linc's to hit auction block
Hungry Horse News
Dogs dash Cats playoff hopes
Hungry Horse News
Should BLUAC hold special evening sessions for public comment concerning the new Bigfork Neighborhood Plan?
Yes
Praise for Red Caboose
I am writing to thank Richard and Beth Kramer for their considerable efforts to create a wonderful down-home restaurant for Whitefish and jump start the Historical Society's Walking Museum.
People before politics
I am voting for Ric Smith for Senate District 5. We need a senator who can be balanced in his approach to solving state-wide problems and providing good representation for our district.
Kidnapping suspect found in crawlspace
An 18-year-old Whitefish man has been charged with felony charges of criminal endangerment, stalking and intimidation and a misdemeanor charge of unlawful restraint following the alleged abduction of his estranged girlfriend on Oct. 1.
Silas Sparks
Silas Francis Sparks (Jr.), 85, of Bartlesville, Okla., passed away peacefully at his home Sept. 14, 2006.
Committed to community
During an election season, candidates try to convince us that they have our best interests at heart. Suddenly, they claim to be "involved" in the district they wish to represent.
Metals class
Rod Cogliati will be instructing a Metals course for six-weeks starting Tuesday, Oct. 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Columbia Falls High School metals lab. The course covers basic metal work including foundry (if there is interest), proper care and use of metal working equipment, cutting torches and general basic welding skills. The course is designed for individual projects. The registration fee of $60 covers instruction, use of equipment and scrap metal.
Citizens should hear debate
I read Verdell Jackson's (my opponent for the State Senate) letter (9-28-06, The Leader) in which he declined my request for a series of debates. One would like to think that someone who has been a politician for eight years, as he has, would be willing and able to debate his opponent.
Jackson will work for the people
Representative Verdell Jackson is a strong supporter of access to public lands and has proved that many times. I am writing to thank him for his assistance is restoring the easement to my parcel of land near Macgregor Lake. The access road which I had used for fifty years was suddenly closed by the Montana Fish and Game when they acquired an adjacent parcel and denied my easement. My only alternative for access to the property was a steep gully, which was literally inaccessible.
We need to take action on climate
Everybody talks about the weather, but nobody does anything about it. That needs to change.
Jackson supports public access
My opponent's campaign continues to distort the purpose of my bills and my voting record on education and access to water and public lands. This letter is in response to my vote on HB 269 which I opposed because of its impact on counties and the State in road construction and improvements. The bill was flawed, but did pass by one vote (51-49) in the House on 2nd reading. It did not add anything to our constitutionally protected stream access provisions which I strongly support.
Pledge returned
Editor's note: The following letter was addressed to the board of directors of The Wave.
Your voice, your rights
Everyone who is interested in deciding their land-use rights - raise your hand. Hmmm… I may be sitting in my office, but my guess is that most landowners (or landowners to be) would like to be a part of important and sweeping decisions that will greatly impact them.
Wednesday, October 4
Jack Joy Whitney
Jack Joy Whitney died on Sept. 25, 2006, at the Kalispell Regional Medical Center.
The rest of the story
"Hear me, my chiefs: My heart is sick and sad. From where the sun now stands, I will fight no more forever."
Developer gets the nod for city sewer, water
Hungry Horse News
Bulldogs win five-game barn burner
Whitefish High School volleyball coach Jackie Fuller was correct when she predicted that the Bulldogs' match against the Eureka Lions wasn't going to be easy.
Ruth Hitland
Ruth Hitland, wife, mother and friend died Oct. 2, 2006, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center after a short illness.
Cheers
So when I get up in the morning I've been noticing that the sun has been coming up redder than normal.
Casting the first stone
Last week, the front page of this paper pictured a group of anti-Christian demonstrators picketing the lifting of The Wave's ban on Christian music.
Salute for a job well done
Earlier this month, Joe Coco stepped down as scoutmaster of Whitefish Boy Scout Troop 17, after nearly five years of service. It is difficult to express the love and respect that is felt for him by our troop's boys.
Let's build neighborhoods
This evening, I was lucky enough to hear Mark Crowley, Democratic candidate for Flathead County commissioner, speak. His grasp of the growth issues facing our valley is unmatched.
Can't we all just get along?
What is happening to the town I was born in, in a little house by the City Beach more than 70 years ago?
Rummage sale
The Columbia Falls Area Chamber of Commerce is having their annual rummage sale this Friday Oct. 6 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday Oct. 7, 9 a.m.-noon, If you have donations please bring them to the Circle Plaza building 110 Nucleus Ave. Bev at Curves next door will be happy to assist you. Proceeds support the Christmas Village.
Rudolph 'Jack' Holterman
Rudolph John Holterman Jr., "Jack" to his friends and family, passed away Sept. 26, 2006, of natural causes at age 91.
Peggy Jo (Chase) Cherry
Peggy Jo (Chase) Cherry, 57, of Yakima, Wash., passed away Sept. 26, 2006, from an extended illness. She was at home surrounded by her family.
Monument taking shape
This is an update to the Community Spirit Monument project in Kalispell for those of you that have contributed artwork or messages and an introduction to those of you that have yet to hear of the project. The purpose of the project is to recognize the value of all types of people in our community and to promote cooperation in resolving issues.
Boys win golf tourney, girls finish strong
The Whitefish boys and girls used the past week's Flatfish Tournament to tune up their games for the state tournament in Butte this week.
Why bash America?
For reasons I do not understand, too many of the letter writers these days are not only extremely informed in their opinionated bashing of neighbors, elected officials, and anyone else who doesn't think like they do… but even worse, many are taking pot shots at their homeland, the U.S.A. Part of this negative approach has to come from ignorance, i.e., lack of worldly knowledge. In approaching and solving any complex problem, education can be just as vital as the application of common sense.
Laura Kirk
Laura V. Kirk, 98, passed away Sept. 27, 2006, at Brendan House in Kalispell.
James E. "Jim" Thomas
James E. "Jim" Thomas, 84, of Bigfork, died Sept. 29, 2006 at the Brendan House in Kalispell after a long illness. He was born March 19, 1922 in Breckenridge, MN, where he lived until he entered the service in 1943. He returned home in 1945 and in 1946, married Bobbie Stephens of Williston, N.D. He worked at the Breckenridge Post Office until 1958 at which time they moved to Billings. There, they operated a Big Boy Drive-In for 20 years. After retiring, they moved to Bigfork and have made their home there since. He especially enjoyed his cherry orchard every summer.
