Stories for July 2010

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Thursday, July 29

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Swan Lake access gets surveyed

Lake County Commissioners are hoping a meeting Friday with the Swan Lake community will help quell an at times heated controversy over a public access to the lake.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Model T Ford tour to stop in Bigfork

Next week Bigfork, as well as the rest of Northwestern Montana, will feel like a step back in time to the early 20th century.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Local skateboarder in X Games 16

Professional skateboarder and former Whitefish resident Sierra Fellers, 23, is in the running for a gold medal in the inaugural Real Street event at ESPN X Games 16.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Commercial interests continue to creep beyond city limits

I want to express my appreciation to the Whitefish Pilot for their excellent reporting on the July 15, 2010, Whitefish City-County Planning Board meeting. Without this reporting, the families that live along Big Mountain Road would not have been made aware of the board's unanimous approval to allow Denis Migneault a conditional-use permit for a bed and breakfast on Big Mountain Road.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

John C. Popa Sr.

John Popa Sr., husband, father, and friend, was collected by angels July 21, 2010 to rest peacefully in his new heavenly home. John was born Dec. 6, 1924 to Romanian immigrants Anna and Vasilie Popa, in Campbell, Ohio.

Week in photos: 8-5-10
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Week in photos: 8-5-10

100 miles in Glacier
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

100 miles in Glacier

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Benefit Revue raises funds for arts scholarships

Attendees at the Bigfork Summer Playhouse's Benefit Revue on Sunday experienced a bit of "Christmas in July" and supported the students who have spent the summer working the Village's stage.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Tom Personett

Tom Personett, 44, left this world July 21, 2010 while enjoying a vacation in New York City with his family.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Comments sought for North Fork Road study

The public was invited to give comment at the North Fork Flathead Road meeting Tuesday, July 27, which will be entered as part of the final Corridor Study Document.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

$8.1 million sewer bond passes

Bigfork Eagle

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Boy Scouts experience outdoors

Boy Scout Troop 1923 from Bigfork spent last week living on Melita Island earning merit badges and enjoying time in the outdoors.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Officers debate Afghan war

The U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pa., is where selected lieutenant colonels and colonels go to prepare to become generals. Eisenhower, Schwartzkopf and Petraeus all attended the War College.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for volunteers

Tracy Armstrong, through no fault of her own, was not born in Whitefish. Her family, the Conns, have been prominent in local history dating back to her great grandfather Ancil. Her parents, Michael and Marviloa Conn, were attending college in Havre when she was born.

3 on 3 tourney always a hit
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

3 on 3 tourney always a hit

The following are the results of the Columbia Falls Chamber of Commerce 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament that was held as part of Heritage Days on July 24.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

David Jonathan Butcher Ampudia

David Jonathan Butcher Ampudia, 24, passed away Sunday morning, July 25, 2010 near Kalispell, as the result of a vehicle accident. He was born on June 1, 1986 to Peter and Claudia (Butcher) Ampudia in Loma Linda, Calif., while his father was finishing his last year of duty at March Air Force Base.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Letters to the editor

A thank you

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Conversations about Afghanistan

The taste of skunk spray

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices free of charge for people who have lived in the Bigfork area.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Gamblers anonymous meetings are being held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall across from the Columbia Falls Library. For more information, call Don at 387-9030.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

League going to bat for entitlement money

HEIDI DESCH / Hungry Horse News

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

QRU facility progressing, but funds needed

The Lakeside Quick Response Unit is making progress on its new ambulance hall and community meeting place.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Lakeside gains 'Volunteer Park' 

West Shore News

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Freezes, donation save jobs

Rural fire makes new offer

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Spoonovers victory

Hooray for Judy Scallen and Mrs. Spoonovers. What a three-year waste of time and money, not to mention the stress and anxiety.

BNSF consultants explain clean-up plans
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

BNSF consultants explain clean-up plans

Clean-up work on the upper reach of the Whitefish River will have a completely different look this year, as BNSF Railway continues to remove sediments contaminated by diesel spilled at the railroad's locomotive refueling station.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Amy Searles

Amy Grace Kalani Searles died July 19, 2010, as the result of an auto accident near East Glacier.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Adopting a furry friend

Letter from the editor

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Dopps plays up with Legion AA

Cody Dopps is no stranger to getting to play up with the older kids, and this spring that experience paid off as he went from playing Babe Ruth Baseball to playing Legion AA with the Kalispell Lakers.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

13U All Stars fifth at state

The 13U Babe Ruth All Star baseball team took fifth place in the state tournament last week in Havre, going 2-2 overall. The tourney featured 11 teams from across Montana.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

The mountaineer's lunch

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Bigfork women compete in The Event

Amid the more than 475 competitors at The Event at Rebecca Farm last weekend was Melissa Van DerVeer, a rising junior at Bigfork High School.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Supports free taxi

I greatly appreciate the taxi article in last week's Whitefish Pilot and would like to draw the community's attention to what could be the loss of an important service to the community of Whitefish.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Conversations about Afghanistan and war

The U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Penn., is where selected lieutenant colonels and colonels go to prepare to become generals. Dwight Eisenhower, Norman Schwartzkopf and David Petraeus all attended the War College.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Farmers' market grows, reaches out

Fire burns near Condon

Mary DeVries, 102, recalls a full life and the value of education
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Mary DeVries, 102, recalls a full life and the value of education

Mary Alice DeVries, who celebrated her 102nd birthday at The Springs At Whitefish on July 17, remembers growing up on a homestead nine miles northwest of Winnett and following her husband from state to state as he found work during the Depression. And she understands the value of a good education.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Bulldog startup dates

Fall sports and activities are starting up soon. All participants need to bring a completed physical and activities consent form to tryouts and first practices. For more information, call Jackie Fuller at 862-8600 ext. 446 or 249-0052.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Shayla Marie Dunlap

Shayla Marie Dunlap, 22, passed away Sunday morning, July 25, 2010 near Kalispell, as the result of a vehicle accident. She was born on July 16, 1988 in Kalispell to John Jay and Vicki Lynn (Leivo) Dunlap.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Home in the world

K.J. HASCALL / For the Hungry Horse News

Cherry harvest
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Cherry harvest

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Local cherry harvest comes late

Flathead cherries are just starting to come off the trees, and even though they are late, for growers, it's a sign of a solid year.

Glacier All Stars fall in title game
July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier All Stars fall in title game

The Glacier All Stars' coaching staff was left standing around the mound at Memorial Park on Sunday evening, scratching their heads and wondering what went wrong. Their stranglehold on a third consecutive 15U Babe Ruth baseball title had disintegrated to dirt in a matter of two short innings.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Hoarding nearly $2 trillion

During the early 1950s, the nation, our state and my hometown of Butte were suffering through a year-long economic recession. My parents owned restaurants in Butte, and business was hurting, as it was for almost everyone.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Candidates interviewed for new ethics committee

Eight candidates for five spots on a new ad hoc committee that will review the city's ethics policy were interviewed by the Whitefish City Council on July 19.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Residents help develop policies for Swan Lake access

Swan Lake residents may have reached a compromise Friday on a 25-foot lake access that's recently been controversial.

July 29, 2010 11 p.m.

Expectations high for cherry crop

Flathead cherries are just starting to come off the trees, and even though they are late, for growers, it's a sign of a solid year.

Thursday, July 22

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Gamblers anonymous meetings are being held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall across from the Columbia Falls Library. For more information, call Don at 387-9030.

Twins wrap up conference play
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Twins wrap up conference play

The Glacier Twins wrapped up their Legion baseball season last weekend with a pair of conference losses to the Medicine Hat Moose Monarchs. The Twins were topped 12-6 in the opener and 11-7 in the nightcap. They finished league play with one win in 19 tries.

Kickin' off the party
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Kickin' off the party

For the first time in Heritage Days history, Columbia Falls' town celebration began with an opening ceremony.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

North Fork ain't protected yet

The North Fork of the Flathead River — the Transboundary Flathead — continues to play in the news of late. The news media report that Gov. Brian Schweitzer and Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester are at odds over how to best protect our river, Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake from upstream industrial activity. While a bit confusing to the reader, we think it's important to keep the North Fork in the news for one simple reason: Our fabulous North Fork ain't protected yet.

Council supports Red Bridge repair
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Council supports Red Bridge repair

In an effort to take advantage of possible funding opportunities, the City of Columbia Falls is once again throwing its support behind plans to revamp the Red Bridge.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Carol D. Nelson

Carol D. Nelson, 71, of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully on July 17, 2010, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Carol was surrounded by friends and family at the time of her passing.

Walking for hope: Relay for Life
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Walking for hope: Relay for Life

It was a down year for Bigfork's Relay for Life, but the more than $24,000 that was raised is nothing to balk at.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

New trend in newspapers: Local, local, local

There's a new trend in the news business that calls for newspapers to go "hyperlocal." An out-of-state visitor who recently spoke in Whitefish summed it up by saying, "Local, local, local."

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Local works to make a difference for world's kids

When Bigfork area resident Natalie Burggraf travels abroad, she doesn't look for a nice beach resort where she can go relax. Instead, her criteria is poverty.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

World Cup equestrians at The Event

The Event At Rebecca Farm will take place on Thursday through Monday, July 22-25 — and the public can watch the action for free.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

LEAP faces funding challenges

The start of LEAP's after-school program is still more than a month away, but the program's board is getting anxious about whether it will have the funding to sustain this community staple.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Evans to run at college in Oregon

There's no doubt that recent Bigfork High School graduate Keenan Evans hit the high point of his prep sports career during his senior year, but all of his hard work will not be wasted as he has decided to continue on in track at Southwestern Oregon Community College in Coos Bay.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

North Fork not fully protected yet

The North Fork of the Flathead River (a.k.a. the Transboundary Flathead) continues to play in the news of late. The news media report that Gov. Brian Schweitzer and Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester are at odds over how to best protect our river, Glacier National Park and Flathead Lake from upstream industrial activity.

Underwood sweeps annual Laser races
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Underwood sweeps annual Laser races

A steady and consistent wind greeted sailors July 10 for the second annual, and still very much informal, Whitefish Lake Laser Regatta.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Barbecue heats up Sunday

Residents of Rollins are busy this week preparing for one of the premier social events of the summer for the West Shore.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Learn before you vote

How much do you really know about the person you plan to choose to represent you in Helena or Washington, D.C.? Have you taken the time to research this person's background? If you are considering a vote for an incumbent, have you reviewed their voting record?

Muhlfeld goes wire-to-wire in 30-mile race
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Muhlfeld goes wire-to-wire in 30-mile race

Clint Muhlfeld led wire-to-wire and edged Geoff Clark by two minutes in the third annual Granja del Cerdo mountain bike race July 17 at the Pig Farms trail system. Muhlfeld rides for the Sportsman Ski Haus cycling team.

Windy weather
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Windy weather

Week in photos: 7-29-10
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Week in photos: 7-29-10

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Ambulance and fire join

It's official — Bigfork Volunteer Fire Department is now providing the Village's emergency medical service.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

The original hungry horse

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Taxi service could return by mid-August

Another person has come forward with a proposal for taxi service in Whitefish — this time with a new angle that could support the business.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Man has life of whitewater adventures

A fantasy come true

Twins finish season with eye on future
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Twins finish season with eye on future

The Glacier Twins wrapped up their Legion baseball season last weekend with a pair of conference losses to the Medicine Hat Moose Monarchs. The Twins were topped 12-6 in the opener and 11-7 in the nightcap. They finished league play with one win in 19 tries.

Judge rules against city in mural case
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Judge rules against city in mural case

Flathead County District Court Judge Katherine Curtis has ruled against the city of Whitefish in the Mrs. Spoonovers sign ordinance case.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Letters to the editor

Learn about candidates

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Healers come to Bigfork

In another week, Bigfork will play host to a one-of-a-kind event aimed to share and preserve ancient rituals and healing ceremonies of the world's indigenous cultures.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

In good taste: The art of tasting foods, drink

The Flathead Valley is blessed with outstanding cooks and chefs. They range from professionals to household geniuses and make life worth living. My son is executive chef at The Springs in Whitefish and his abilities put the rest of us to shame.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices free of charge for people who have lived in the Bigfork area.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Lakers honor North Fork deal with award

Branding efforts continue

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Nystuen wins 5K

West Shore News

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

$8.1 million sewer bond passes

Bigfork Eagle

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for volunteers

Kathy Klocow moved here from Minnesota. A graduate of business college, she spent her early working years as a secretary. Her husband Edward was a trucker, and in 1979, having seen most of the U.S., he announced "We're moving to Montana."

Benefit Revue
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Benefit Revue

12U All Stars earn back-to-back state titles
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

12U All Stars earn back-to-back state titles

Whitefish's 12U All Stars won the Cal Ripken state championship 11-7 over Belgrade last weekend in Livingston, marking back-to-back titles for the young baseball team. Nearly the same group of players emerged last year as Montana's top team in the 11U league.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Lucky turns 2

Driving tour features Somers, lower Valley

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Devin Thomas Meuter

Devin Thomas Meuter, son of Jason and Melissa Meuter, of Whitefish, was born June 20, 2010, at North Valley Hospital.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Stryker Ridge may see mountain goats

LARRY WILSON / For the Hungry Horse News

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Montana FWP more than doubles wolf harvest quota

Flathead Lakers honor North Fork deal

High school design taking shape
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

High school design taking shape

The Whitefish High School Futures Committee recently completed another phase in a public process to determine how to renovate or replace the current high school facility.

Barbecue raises funds for Ferndale Fire
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Barbecue raises funds for Ferndale Fire

The Ferndale Volunteer Fire Department raised approximately $6,000 at its annual barbecue fundraiser Saturday.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Supports Hammerquist

I am writing to express my support for Will Ham-merquist to represent Whitefish in our state legislature.

Abbott Valley gracefully aging
July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Abbott Valley gracefully aging

The fence around the Abbott Valley Homestead on the edge of Martin City is nothing out of the ordinary. There's posts and enough strands of barbed wire to keep the cattle and horses in.

July 22, 2010 11 p.m.

Terry Westphal

Terry Robert Westphal, 64, died at home on July 7, 2010.

Thursday, July 15

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Phyllis and Carleen Baker

Phyllis Ann Baker passed away Oct. 18, 2008, and Carleen Ann Baker passed away April 13, 2010. Both lived in Salt Lake City, Utah, but considered Columbia Falls, home. They are preceded in death by Eugene Paul Baker, husband and father, Rodney J. Baker and Eugene Richard Baker, sons and brothers.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Lauzon overall winner in ladies golf tourney

The Whitefish Pilot

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Terry Robert Westphal

Terry Robert Westphal died at home on July 7, 2010 at the age of 64. Born April 18, 1946 in Detroit Lakes, Minn., Terry earned many certificates and diplomas in the fields of aviation, supervision and truck driving. Terry joined the United States Air force in 1963. Terry worked at Columbia Falls Aluminum Company as a maintenance electrician. Later, Terry worked for Gulfstream Aerospace as a service mechanic. He enjoyed flying his airplane for many years. Terry also enjoyed activities such as auto restoration, being a member of the Glacier Street Rod, bartering, antique collecting (marbles), recreation, and talking in general.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Council tables marijuana regs

The Whitefish City Council voted unanimously on July 6 to table a vote on zoning regulations for the medical marijuana industry. A vote on the draft regulations was also tabled on May 17. Councilors Ryan Friel and Chris Hyatt, along with mayor Mike Jenson, were absent.

Twins focus on fun at Sapa-Johnsrud
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Twins focus on fun at Sapa-Johnsrud

With the Glacier Twins' chances of making the conference baseball playoffs out of reach after a July 6 thumping from league foe Kalispell, the Legion team entered the annual Sapa-Johnsrud tournament as loose as they've been all season.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Letters to the editor

Make a difference by supporting library

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Lesson in preconceptions

Letter from the editor

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Litter bugs

I hate it when people litter. If the world was a fair place, I could deposit the bags of beer cans and broken beer bottles tossed in my neigborhood back to the people who threw the litter.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Library stories

I was stunned to read comments attributed to Flathead County Library Board and director Kim Crowley published in the July 1 Whitefish Pilot. Stunned, but not surprised. During my tenure as a Whitefish librarian, we were often subjected to unprofessional tirades from Kalispell branch administration.

Actor revels in time on Village stage
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Actor revels in time on Village stage

Quinn Butterfield still remembers the first line he ever spoke in the first play he was ever in- — "Who claims the ribbon for the red, red rose?"

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Bestwick strong in Missoula Marathon

Michael Bestwick, of Whitefish, finished in 21st place overall at the Missoula Marathon on Sunday, posting a 3:00:36. He carried a 6:54 pace on the 26.1-mile course that took runners from Frenchtown to downtown Missoula. More than 1,200 runners took part in the full marathon.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Timothy "Scott" Zimmerman

Timothy "Scott" Zimmerman, 59, passed away on Saturday, July 10, 2010 at his home in Columbia Falls. Scott was born on May 15, 1951 in Cut Bank, to Earl and Joan (Morgan) Zimmerman.

Lakeside Community Fair
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Lakeside Community Fair

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Log salvaging could begin this fall

Some of the North Shore's long-time residents may recall the days when logs were floated down the Flathead River into Somers Bay.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Cosley's back

DAVE RENFROW / For the Hungry Horse News

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Ambulance and fire join

It's official — Bigfork Volunteer Fire Department is now providing the Village's emergency medical service.

First Best Place receives $30,000
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

First Best Place receives $30,000

North Valley Hospital and First Best Place Task Force have finalized an agreement together that means an infusion of cash to the community group.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Father Charles Strom

Father Charles "Bud" Strom, 95, died Monday, July 12, 2010, at Whitefish Care and Rehabilitation Center in Whitefish. He was an ordained priest for 38 years. Father Patton saw and anointed him Sunday afternoon.

Kayakers find therapy on the open river
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Kayakers find therapy on the open river

Now in its 10th year, First Descents' kayaking camps have become a staple of summer in the north Flathead Valley, and for many locals, so has lending a hand to the non-profit organization.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Edna Aldrich

Edna Aldrich passed away on Saturday, July 10, 2010 in Billings. She was 89.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Residents prepare for annual Lakeside Community Fair

West Shore News

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Colleen Mary Cluka-Gordon

Colleen Gordon, 57, left to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Feb. 17, 2010 in Las Vegas, with her loving family in attendance at her side. Colleen was born in 1953 in Bertha, Minn., to William and Mary Cluka. Her family, including her two brothers and three sisters, spent time living in both Chester and Conrad Montana, before settling in Columbia Falls, around 1965. Colleen graduated from Columbia Falls High School in 1971. She then moved to Whitefish where she lived for many years. In 1976 she married Richard Gordon, of Whitefish. In 1977, Colleen gave birth to her son and only child, Jesse.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Friday

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Lucky turns 2

Driving tour features Somers, lower Valley

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Relay for Life

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Telling tales, a way of life

Finding Glacier’s melody

Granja del Cerdo
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Granja del Cerdo

River to be drained this summer for cleanup
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

River to be drained this summer for cleanup

The Whitefish Pilot

Whitefish U-10 All Stars win state title
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Whitefish U-10 All Stars win state title

The Whitefish Pilot

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Committee holds off meetings until fall

The Bigfork Steering Committee has opted to postpone meetings until October, when it will discuss its future in more detail.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Looking back to the 'good old days

Often when our nation seems to be on the wrong track we have a nostalgic reaction to think back to the "good old days' when we remember things were better.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

World military officials visit Bigfork

It's not every day residents can meet someone from Kazakhstan or Nigeria in Bigfork, but it does happen at least once every summer.

Digging out the Highline
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Digging out the Highline

One of Glacier National Park's most popular trails opened last week, but it took several dozen shovelers and some explosives to make it passable.

Twins win thriller over Chino
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Twins win thriller over Chino

With the Glacier Twins' chances of making the conference baseball playoffs out of reach after a July 6 thumping from league foe Kalispell, the Legion team entered the annual Sapa-Johnsrud tournament as loose as they've been all season.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Homer Lyle Steele

Homer Lyle Steele, 82, beloved husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, passed away at his home on July 11, 2010 surrounded with the love of his family.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

James "Mark" Wood Wolfe

James "Mark" Wood Wolfe, 57, of Columbia Falls, passed away peacefully on Friday, July 9, 2010 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center in Kalispell, surrounded by family and close friends.

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Kids learn life sport of tennis

For the past three weeks, a dozen kids took to the tennis courts at the Montana Athletic Club to begin learning a sport they can take part in their whole lives.

Tuesday a tough one for area drivers
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Tuesday a tough one for area drivers

A motorcyclist was killed in a head-on collision with a car Tuesday (July 13) afternoon on U.S. Highway 2 close to the Stanton Creek Lodge.

Week in photos: 7-22-10
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Week in photos: 7-22-10

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Part-time local girl's 'got talent'

Project moves to final design

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

'Stuff' happens

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for volunteers

Jake Heckathorn

Groups unite to help develop new Whitefish Trail
July 15, 2010 11 p.m.

Groups unite to help develop new Whitefish Trail

One year per mile. Never has so much effort been put into scratching a hiking trail through the woods.

Thursday, July 8

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Biomass a viable energy source

One of the more annoying things we experience in life is being subjected to opinions of individuals who stray from their areas of expertise and wander into places to prattle on with a complete lack of knowledge. This nasty scenario keeps cropping up when the topic is the use of woody biomass and whether it is pure enough to be considered a renewable resource.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Health care for business

Montana is a small business state, and small business owners know firsthand that they are truly the drivers behind our economy.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

About canine conversations

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices for people who have lived in the Bigfork area.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

UPDATED: Pilot in plane crash attended BHS

Bigfork Eagle and Northwest Montana News Network

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Genevieve M. Thompson

Genevieve M. Thompson, a longtime resident of West Glacier, passed away Monday, July 5, 2010, at her recent residence The Springs at Whitefish.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

District accepts band teacher's resignation

After 21 years with the Bigfork School District, band teacher Doug Peters has resigned.

Chargers zap Twins' rally
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Chargers zap Twins' rally

The Glacier Twins blew a late-game, one-run lead in a twin bill with the Great Falls Chargers at home June 30, letting a chance to chalk up a much-needed conference win slip away.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Letters to the editor

Knowing America will be OK

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Co-op recognized for energy efficiency

Hori farm revisited

New theater company in town
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

New theater company in town

A new theater company has formed in Whitefish, adding to the town's vibrant mix of music, art and culture.

Week in photos: 7-15-10
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Week in photos: 7-15-10

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Lion meat

I was shocked to hear that lion burgers are being served at a restaurant in Arizona. I was even more upset to hear that this isn't something new or out of the ordinary. That this meat is considered game meat and so easily obtainable is hard to believe since lions in Africa are a threatened species with only about 20,000 left. If we do nothing, they may be extinct by 2020.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Plan heads back to board

The Lakeside Neighborhood Plan is on its way back to the Flathead County Planning Board to face its scrutiny and that of the community in a public hearing later this summer.

High school coaches teach basics to area youth
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

High school coaches teach basics to area youth

Nearly 90 kids in grades kindergarten through eighth turned out for the four-day basketball camp at the Bigfork schools.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Gamblers anonymous meetings are being held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall across from the Columbia Falls Library. For more information, call Don at 387-9030.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Bring civility back into the U.S. political environment

The political environment, that has been created the last few decades has left us questioning the motives of our elected officials, candidates and campaigns.

Wind storm
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Wind storm

Cats take second at home meet
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Cats take second at home meet

Hungry Horse News

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Fourth of July events abound in Bigfork, Valley

Bigfork Eagle

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Bar manager violates recent court sentence

Drop-off site trashed

Senators question MOU
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Senators question MOU

Three Montana leaders agree the North Fork of the Flathead River deserves protection. But how that will come about remains to be seen and the more they talk, the messier it seems to get.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

The loss of two of our own

Letter from the editor

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Scouts celebrate 100 years

Bigfork's Troop 1923 took part in a special two-for-one celebration in June as they commemorated the 100th anniversary of the Boy Scouts and Glacier National Park with three days of volunteering.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Joseph Carl Klempel

Joseph Carl Klempel, Jr., 90, of Bigfork, heard the trumpet call to his eternal home up yonder, where there is no pain, only peace, on June 23, 2010. Joey was born in a log-sod house on his parents' homestead out in the hills southwest of Lambert. He began his education at the Round Butte School, to which he walked or rode a horse six miles one way. He later attended Sidney Elementary School.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Comments sought on Lake logging

Late rains help Flathead Lake reach full pool

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Committee holds off meetings until fall

The Bigfork Steering Committee has opted to postpone meetings until October, when it will discuss its future in more detail.

Driving tour features Bigfork, lower Valley
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Driving tour features Bigfork, lower Valley

Astute residents may have noticed a recent addition near Sliter Park in Bigfork — a metal American bison on top of a post with the words "A HIP project."

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Preliminary budget approved as proposed

The Whitefish City Council reluctantly passed a preliminary budget — less than four hours before the fiscal year ended.

Glacier Challenge: No typical vacation
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier Challenge: No typical vacation

The Leander family doesn't do Wally World. In fact, their vacation is most people's worst nightmare.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

District given grant for substance abuse program

Next month Bigfork schools will get a little closer to having all of their staff certified in Student Assistance Training International's substance abuse program, thanks to a grant from Kalispell Toyota.

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Big shows

K. J. HASCALL / Hungry Horse News

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Informed conversations needed on energy sources

One of the more annoying things we experience in life is being subjected to opinions of individuals who stray from their areas of expertise and wander into places to prattle on with a complete lack of knowledge. This nasty scenario keeps cropping up when the topic is the use of woody biomass and whether it is pure enough to be considered a renewable resource.

Former Martin City fire chief retires
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Former Martin City fire chief retires

Rabidue helped secure proper firefighting gear

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Sluggish pitching drowns Twins

The Glacier Twin's pitching staff struggled to keep Lethbridge's bats contained Monday night as the Elks posted 30 runs on the Twins in a Legion baseball conference doubleheader at Memorial Park.

Big Blowup of 1910 burned 3 million acres
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Big Blowup of 1910 burned 3 million acres

The Whitefish Pilot

July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Order to allow preseason resort access

The Forest Service signed a special order last week regarding uphill travel at Whitefish Mountain Resort that likely makes preseason access for skiers and hikers realistic.

Glacier Park robin family an Internet hit
July 8, 2010 11 p.m.

Glacier Park robin family an Internet hit

The trials and tribulations of a nesting pair of American robin are proving to be a hit on Glacier National Park's website, even though there's been a tragedy in the family.

Thursday, July 1

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Cooperation needed to solve fire agreement

I have lived in Whitefish for 51-plus years, and I do pay property taxes in the city and in the county. It has been my good fortune to be able to serve this community on many different boards and volunteer organizations.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Doughnut ideas handed off to lawyers

By unanimous vote, the Whitefish City Council agreed on June 21 to move on to the next step in resolving the city's lawsuit against the county for unilaterally rescinding the interlocal agreement that created the city's two-mile planning and zoning "doughnut" area.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

UPDATED: Pilot in plane crash attended BHS

Bigfork Eagle and Northwest Montana News Network

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Cross-country program in need of funding

Usually July is a time for relaxing for Sue Loeffler, who is the physical education teacher at Bigfork Middle and Elementary Schools as well as the high school head cross-country and track coach.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Safely celebrate the Fourth of July

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was a great success. Bigfork Fire Department would like to thank Friends of Bigfork Fire for their time effort in raising the money for our training facilities.

Governors swarm town; talk energy, water
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Governors swarm town; talk energy, water

Whitefish took on the characteristics of a mini metropolis earlier this week while the Western Governors Association's annual meeting was being held here.

Hungry Horse's facelift
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Hungry Horse's facelift

A mere few months ago, Jennilee Burke and Jamie Foster were volunteers at the Canyon Cleanup in Hungry Horse.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Departments reduce fire risk for 300 acres

BLUAC appoints member

In cycling, Kavanagh golden
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

In cycling, Kavanagh golden

Paracyclist Sam Kavanagh is finding his form.

North Fork protection may come as treaty
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

North Fork protection may come as treaty

Obama, Canadian PM look to solidify MOU, which lacks funding

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Appellate court rules in Timberland bankruptcy

The Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals recently affirmed the Ninth Circuit Bankruptcy Appellate Panel's denial of a bankruptcy discharge for former Whitefish contractor Brendon Retz.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Donna Mae Smith

Donna Mae Smith, 77, passed away on June 23, 2010 in Whitefish, with those she loved and those who loved her at her side after a long struggle with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Firework sales stay up despite economy
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Firework sales stay up despite economy

Four firework stands have been lining the edge of Montana Highway 35 at the north end of town for the past couple of weeks, and with their busiest days ahead of them, business is going better than expected.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Painting the Park

Swan Crest run changes plan to avoid review

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Great train ride

Last Saturday, I took a journey back in time on a train ride which brought me back to the days of the Great Northern Railway, 45 years ago when, as a youngster, I rode over the same route with my father, a Great Northern Railway conductor.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Injury bug bites Twins

After a three-week road trip across Washington and Canada, the Glacier Twins are finally coming home, but not before injuries took two key players out of the lineup.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Four added to Wild Horse herd

Residents throw birthday bash for decoy patrol car

Locals rule Lake Run
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Locals rule Lake Run

Elliot Welder, of Kalis-pell, was the first of more than 500 runners and walkers to cross the finish line at City Beach on Saturday at the 33rd annual Whitefish Lake Run.

City Beach fireworks
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

City Beach fireworks

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Claudia Kinner

Claudia Kinner, 101, passed away peacefully with loved ones by her side May 24, 2010 after suffering a stroke at the Montana Veterans’ Home in Columbia Falls. Claudia was born Aug. 30, 1908 in Lanesboro, Minn., to Soren and Mary Bachman. Her sense of adventure took her to Glacier National Park in 1931. She worked at Granite Park Chalet and often spoke of that experience.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Museum features women's views of Glacier

Numerous events throughout the area are paying homage to Glacier National Park's centennial, but one that will begin in Bigfork on Friday will provide something different than others — the views and recordings of three local female artists.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Shryock 16th in Ironman

Whitefish High School 2005 graduate Matt Shryock was 16th overall out of 2,262 competitors in the elite Ironman Coeur d'Alene triathlon June 27, finishing with a 9:23:32.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

In memory of Doris Schumm

In November 2009, Whitefish lost one of its most generous residents, Doris Schumm. She was a great friend to nonprofit organizations and donated countless hours of time and support to many, including the Whitefish Library, North Valley Food Bank and the Whitefish Community Foundation.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Wayne S. Cole

Wayne S. Cole, 61, of Martin City passed away June 24, 2010 at home in the loving care of his wife Jenny.

Relay raises more than $28,000
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Relay raises more than $28,000

The local Relay for Life chapter raised $28,631 at the June 18-19 walkathon at the Whitefish High School practice field. An individual from the North Valley Hospital team walked from 6 p.m. to 8 a.m., while three of the 18 teams had a member on the track at all times, including the Whitefish Fire Department, Whitefish Lake Golf Club and North Valley Hospital.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Donations needed for Lakeside Community Fair

The Lakeside Community Club is asking for community help in its continuing efforts to aid the many "essential care" non-profit organizations in the Valley that it contributes to every year.

95-year-old woman oldest to ride zip lines
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

95-year-old woman oldest to ride zip lines

Whitefish Pilot

Bigfork Youth Baseball teams conclude season
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Bigfork Youth Baseball teams conclude season

Boys and girls of all ages recently wrapped up their six-week long season in the Bigfork Youth Baseball program and their coaches said the players made big improvements across the board.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Cheers for volunteers

Wayne and Lois Marshall hail from New Jersey. On a trip through the West, their son called from Whitefish saying "you've got to come see this place." They did. They fell in love with the area and built what they thought would be a vacation home on Big Mountain.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Byron Whitcomb

Byron Taylor Whitcomb died June 19, 2010, at Fort Polk Army Base, La.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

District accepts band teacher's resignation

After 21 years with the Bigfork School District, band teacher Doug Peters has resigned.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Fourth of July events abound in Bigfork, Valley

Bigfork Eagle

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Missing plane found, no survivors

A determined search ended grimly Wednesday when the wreckage of a small plane was found on a rugged, remote hillside southwest of Dixon.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

No survivors found aboard sightseeing plane

A sightseeing flight ended in tragedy, searchers learned this week, as they discovered all four people aboard killed.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Ballots go out for sewer bond vote

The Flathead County Election Office will drop ballots in the mail Tuesday for Bigfork voters to decide on whether or not to approve an $8.1 million bond to replace the Village's wastewater treatment plant.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Obituaries

The Bigfork Eagle runs obituaries and death notices for people who have lived in the Bigfork area. To submit, e-mail

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

'Big Murph' and the Madam

G. GEORGE OSTROM / For the Hungry Horse News

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Thursday

Gamblers anonymous meetings are being held Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. at the union hall across from the Columbia Falls Library. For more information, call Don at 387-9030.

Work begins on new tennis courts
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Work begins on new tennis courts

With any luck, the sound of the swing of rackets will be echoing through Ben Williams Park in Lakeside by mid-August.

Jackson hints at future while in Whitefish
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Jackson hints at future while in Whitefish

A dozen media members stood poised in the Whitefish Middle School courtyard Sunday afternoon, ready to type up and broadcast the nation's biggest sports story of the day.

Fourth of July parade
July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Fourth of July parade

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Bigfork man keeps active by swimming

Bob Chrysler was a certified public accountant and partner at Chrysler & Gordon in Bigfork for 32-and-a-half years before retiring at the end of May, and his secret for getting through it may have been the vigilance he had when it came to staying active.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Letters to the editor

Vote for library levy

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

One zip line closed after man injured

A man was sent to the hospital last week after breaking his tailbone while riding a zip line at Whitefish Mountain Resort.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Paving may violate law

Two environmental groups have laid out a legal case against paving a section of the North Fork Road.

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Three house candidates debate in Whitefish

Library agreement extended to Oct. 28

July 1, 2010 11 p.m.

Preparing for the Polebridge parade

LARRY WILSON / For the Hungry Horse News