Thursday, October 31
Halloween events in Whitefish for kids and adults
Central Avenue will be bustling with spooky ghosts and goblins today as Whitefish hosts a fleet of Halloween activities and costume contests for both kids and adults.
Four banks and drugstore teaming up to help children
Jennifer Bach wants to help children around the world have a brighter holiday.
Bigfork volleyballers win two, place second
The Bigfork High School volleyball team picked up wins over Plains and Troy last week, which left them in second place in the district.
Makena Morley sets new state record
It was a perfect day for Bigfork’s Makena Morley.
Vikings roll, will host Townsend Saturday
For at least the second time ever, the Bigfork Vikings finished the regular season undefeated.
Retired Bigfork general talks about Egypt, Syria
Paul Vallely helped start the Glacial Forum because people have a thirst for knowledge.
Stormwater project would pave Bridge Street
Paving Bridge Street from Highway 35 to the old bridge in downtown Bigfork would be included in a completion of the Bigfork Stormwater Project.
Standards-based grading pilot project approved
The teachers won.
Bigfork teen dies in one-vehicle accident
A 19-year-old Bigfork man died Monday after a one-vehicle accident on Montana Highway 83.
Traveling preacher's sound equipment torn up
The police log
Wednesday, October 30
City to conduct smoke test in sewer system
Non-toxic smoke will be blown into sewer lines near downtown Whitefish on Thursday morning as the city tests for leaks in its sewer system.
Governor visits Stoltze's co-generation plant
Chuck Roady beamed as he stood at the microphone last week in front of the F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber’s new $22 million co-generation plant.
Orozco honored for work as superintendent
A couple times a month, Whitefish School District Superintendent Kate Orozco asks a teacher to relinquish their classroom so she can work with the students.
Whitefish looks to upset Rams in soccer championship
The Whitefish girls soccer team is headed back to the Class A state championship match with its sight set on a major upset.
Election 2013: Judge Johnson runs unopposed
Even after nearly 28 years at the helm of Whitefish’s municipal court, Judge Bradley Johnson says he still has a passion for the job.
Football playoffs: Whitefish hosts Butte Central
Whitefish is prepped to host its first playoff football game in a decade this Saturday when they take on the No. 3 seed Butte Central Maroons at Memorial Field at 1 p.m.
New book tells tales of a simpler time in Whitefish
Whether swimming at City Beach, roaming through the first school classrooms only to find a dead body, or repairing old boats for their armada on the Whitefish River, the ingenuity and dare-devil antics of a group of young boys comes to life in Rod Fisher’s new book.
Dogs rout Libby to earn No. 2 seed in football playoffs
Make the playoffs and host a playoff game.
Entrepreneur advocates for school choice
Greg Gianforte of Bozeman is a software entrepreneur, philanthropist and an advocate for school choice.
Whitefish hunter takes record bighorn near Plains
Whitefish resident Glen Prestegaard recently took a bighorn ram ranked by the Safari Club International record book as No. 3 in the world for muzzleloader. The ram was taken on public land near Plains during a self-guided trip.
Woman pleads not guilty to meth bender
A Whitefish woman has pleaded not guilty to a pair of felonies after allegedly driving while on a multi-day methamphetamine bender and with her 4-year-old daughter in the car.
Chamber updating Whitefish economic blueprint
The Whitefish Chamber of Commerce has checked off a number of items on its economic development to-do list and is now looking to update their priorities for the next five to seven years.
Police calls: Knife-wielding man threatens employees
Olney shows best results in slow start to hunting season
It was a slow opener to deer and elk hunting season last weekend.
Lady Bulldog runners second at state meet
The Whitefish girls cross-country team surprised the field at the Class A state meet in Missoula on Saturday and brought home a well-earned second-place trophy.
No one home for shootout with police
Whitefish Police evacuated the Chair 3 Apartments and nearby businesses Monday at around noon after getting a report from Veterans Administration officials about a resident who allegedly said he was going to have a shootout with police and kill himself.
Wilbur Owen Gulbranson
Wilbur Owen Gulbranson, 85, died Oct. 21, 2013 at his home in Columbia Falls following a brief illness.
Zinke announces run for U.S. House
Bullock visits with C-Falls teachers
Moore hopes to nab city council seat on Nov. 5
Gladys Hedlund
Gladys M. Hedlund, 98, passed away Oct. 23 at The Springs in Whitefish. Gladys moved from Missoula to The Springs in 2011 to be near family. The care and love she received from everyone at The Springs was truly wonderful and much appreciated.
Lawrence Moser
Lawrence P. “Larry” Moser, 63, of Martin City, died Oct. 24, 2013.
President Obama speaks on immigration reform
The following remarks about immigration reform were made at the White House on Oct. 24, 2013.
Does Obama have the courage to pursue peace with Iran?
Settling the nuclear controversy with Iran peacefully will require courage on President Obama’s part. Does he have what it will take to resist those who prefer war?
Cats go 8-0, best since '75 and '76
C-Falls spikers down Lady Pirates
Speakers win in Frenchtown
Mundel takes 9th at state meet
Triplett takes 9th in world bull riding finals
Agnes Cada
Gill netting bad for business
New Cabela's store readies for grand opening
FWP: Hunting opener was slow
Outdoor news
Xanterra has plenty of jobs
Rawhide sold to Swan Mountain Outfitters
MDT will replace South Fork bridge
Stoltze celebrates co-gen plant
Community news
Tuesday, October 29
Some Glacier Park Roads closed for winter
Several of Glacier National Park’s roads have closed down for the winter. Closed roads are treated as trails in winter — people can still hike, bike and ski on them as conditions warrant, but pets are not allowed.
Monday, October 28
McDonald Creek bridge closed Wednesday
The Lower McDonald Creek Bridge, near Apgar Village on the west side of Glacier National Park, will be closed for approximately 12 hours beginning 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 30. It is anticipated that the bridge will open to traffic by 6 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 31, the Park has announced.
Sunday, October 27
Single-digit wind chills predicted with winter blast
A blast of winter is expected in Northwest Montana starting Sunday afternoon.
Saturday, October 26
Update: Family says victim of police shooting suffered mental illness
The brother of a Whitefish man who was shot and killed by California law enforcement last week says the use of deadly force was unwarranted and that mental illness played a role in the incident.
Friday, October 25
Gladys Hedlund
Gladys M. Hedlund, 98, passed away Oct. 23 at The Springs in Whitefish. Gladys moved from Missoula to The Springs in 2011 to be near family. The care and love she received from everyone at The Springs was truly wonderful and much appreciated.
Wintry blast expected Sunday
A blast of winter is expected in Northwest Montana starting Sunday afternoon, the National Weather Service warned Friday.
Thursday, October 24
Making the Whitefish Trail a safer place
A colleague recently stopped by the Whitefish Legacy Partners office with her Whitefish Legacy Run registration and a story about a recent experience on the Whitefish Trail. To train for the 4.5 mile race, she headed out to Beaver Lake Trailhead to run a loop with a few friends. After passing a few junctions and road crossings, she came upon another junction and took the trail she thought went back to the trailhead.
Options on table for Bigfork green box site
Despite comments its members made about still wanting to close the Bigfork Green Box site, that decision has been placed on hold for now.
Wednesday, October 23
Nurse navigators guide cancer patients from diagnosis to recovery
A diagnosis of breast cancer is the beginning of a journey that isn’t just about the disease. When a patient is told they have cancer that’s when the questions begin — about treatment and doctors, payments and health care, and sometimes travel and living expenses.
Breast cancer survivor urges women to be proactive
Last spring, Dawn Platke noticed a lump in her chest. She thought she’d pulled a muscle, but just to be sure she went to the doctor and had a mammogram.
Police calls: Kung-fu dancer seems suspicious
Whitefish home construction stays on upward trend
Subdivisions that sat dormant for years are filling in with new homes at a steady pace this year as construction activity in Whitefish continues on an upward trend.
Food bank facility nearly finished
The North Valley Food Band is getting completed thanks to so many volunteers and donations large and small.
Mark Raymond McCoy
Mark Raymond McCoy, 56, passed away Oct. 12.
Fire open house thanks
As chair of Fire Prevention Week and Public Relations Committe, I wanted to say a huge THANK YOU to those that helped make this year’s Whitefish Fire Department Open House the most successful gathering yet.
XC runners claim divisional titles
Whitefish cross-country appears to be peaking at just the right time.
Unlikely donation nets $1 million for Whitefish church
Roger A. Wold, a longtime Whitefish resident who lived a simple, reclusive life prior to his death last year, has given $1 million to Christ Lutheran Church in Whitefish.
Shutout puts girls soccer in semis
A nearly impermeable defense led the way as the Whitefish girls soccer team posted a shutout Saturday at home to advance to the semi-finals of the Class A state soccer tournament.
Board OKs proposed cell tower at Memorial Park
Plans for a cellular tower along with an 80-foot light pole at Memorial Park will go before city council next month.
North Valley Hospital opens new operating room
North Valley Hospital opened its doors to the public Tuesday evening to showcase a fourth operating room and talk about future plans for the Whitefish hospital.
Whitefish P.E.O. touts mission to assist women
Members of P.E.O. work to raise dollar after dollar to assist women in higher education, and they often do it quietly and without much notice.
Rangers end boys soccer season
The Whitefish boys soccer season came to an abrupt end Saturday as the two-time defending Class A state champions were ousted from the playoffs in the first round.
Sale of independent school hits zoning snag
A request that would allow a local lip balm company to move into the Whitefish Independent High School building appears to have hit a snag.
East 2nd Street reconstruction to begin in March
Road closures and one-way traffic will be the norm next summer for residents along East Second Street as the roadway is rebuilt from Larch Avenue east to the railroad tracks.
New road worth the wait
I know there’s been a lot of grumbling about the street construction of Baker and Wisconsin between Second Street and Edgewood. But I would just like to say thanks to the city, state, and private contractors for completing such a smooth and beautiful street for our use. The wait was worth it. Thanks much.
Dogs buck Broncs for playoff berth
Another impressive defensive performance at home Friday helped Whitefish secure a spot in the upcoming Class A state football playoffs.
George Marion Colvill
George Marion Colvill passed away peacefully with his family by his side on Oct. 19 due to natural causes after a rewarding life of 85 years.
Alcohol a factor in fatal wreck near downtown
Results from a toxicology test show alcohol was a factor in a fatal wreck last month near downtown Whitefish.
New subdivision on Lion Mountain approved
A new subdivision planned on Lion Mountain received unanimous support from Whitefish City Council on Monday following nearly two-and-a-half hours of public comment aired by concerned neighbors.
Flathead Forest reschedules meeting, field trip
The Flathead National Forest has rescheduled two public meeting that were cancelled to due to the partial government shutdown. One is an open house that is part of the Forest Plan Revision effort and the other is a field trip for a planned Condon Mountain Fire salvage project.
Zinke announces campaign for U.S. House
Whitefish resident and former state Sen. Ryan Zinke officially announced Monday his campaign for Montana’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Spikers do well at Missoula tourney
Kats blanked by Hamilton in soccer playoffs
Mundel takes Northwest A cross country title
Cats extend winning streak to seven
Red buses moving to Columbia Falls? Maybe
The 46 million year old skeeter
BPA won't pay for netting
Candidate wants to practice what she teaches
Council candidate wants to grow the economy
Beer garden, other amenities lined up at waterpark
Cancer survivor says quick detection is key
Wilbur Gulbranson
Wilbur Owen Gulbranson, 85, died Oct. 21, 2013, at his home in Columbia Falls following a brief illness.
Raymond Moorehead
Raymond Moorehead, 95, died Oct. 21, 2013, at his home in Columbia Falls.
Ernest Dickson
Ernest W. “Buz” Dickson, 62, passed away Oct. 19, 2013, at Community Health Center in Missoula following complications of a stroke.
Tuesday, October 22
Grant helps Glacier Gateway music program
Recalling a great mentor
Kudos to Larry Wilson
Standing alone with Ostrom
C-Falls man found slumped over wheel, faces DUI No. 4
Man sentenced for abducting baby
Columbia Falls woman wins $25,000
John Hoag
John Tigchon “Jack” Hoag, 98, passed away Aug. 31, 2013, at the Montana Veterans Home in Columbia Falls.
Some clarifications on the proposed CSKT water compact
Verdell Jackson’s analysis of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes proposed water compact is flawed. Verdell does not get to decide what the tribe does and does not get. That will either be decided by accepting the negotiated compact or going through decades of litigation that will impact half of the state of Montana.
Monday, October 21
Terrance Ren
Black belts awarded
The American Karate Academy recently announced the advancement of five new First Dan Black Belts to the school.
Injustice
Hungry Horse man pleads guilty to drug possession
Wolf plan doesn't have to be a challenge
We continue to hear how difficult it is to manage wolves in the wild, due to depredation on livestock and the decline of elk populations in the state of Montana. We also hear that wolves are waiting at bus stops to drag our children off into the forests, all of which is nothing more than propaganda to serve a very clear purpose.
Sunday, October 20
Countywide funding for 911 dispatch proposed
The Flathead County 911 Administrative Board discussed at their Oct. 9 meeting the idea of creating a countywide special district to pay for the new 911 dispatch center and emergency communications equipment around the valley.
North Valley Hospital offering more financial aid
North Valley Hospital recently announced it has liberalized its financial aid policy in an effort to help uninsured and underinsured patients.
Legislature made right choice on Medicaid
With the growing federal deficit and the need to raise the debt ceiling once again looming large, it has become clear to many of us that the Montana Legislature was right to reject the Obamacare Medicaid expansion.
Friday, October 18
Costly shutdown
Regulatory reform: A necessity for small business growth
As our nation struggles to fully recover from the Great Recession, the questions on every American’s mind are, “How did we end up in this situation?” and “Where do we go from here?”
Services return at the Flathead National Forest
The Flathead National Forest is open again for business, and employees are working to restore public services following the 16-day partial federal government shutdown.
Thursday, October 17
Glacier reopens, but snow closes Logan Pass
The gates to Glacier National Park reopened Thursday morning following a 16-day federal government shutdown that closed all national parks across the country.
Leaf pickup in Whitefish on Fridays
Bagged leaf pickup in Whitefish will occur on Fridays beginning Oct. 19 through Dec. 6.
Loss of wildlife management and our rural Montana heritage
The human control crew is at it again. However, this time they are utilizing a wildlife ballot initiative known as I-167 as a vector to achieve their non-consumptive use/rural cleansing agenda.
Obama speaks about ending the shutdown
The following remarks were made by President Barack Obama at the Whitehouse on Oct. 17, 2013.
Retired officer thankful for Ty Woods story
Thank you for having the guts to print the story about Ty Woods (Oct. 9, 2013 Eagle).
Morley wins for fifth straight time
She did it again.
Vikings clip Horsemen, 54-14
The Bigfork Vikings accumulated 482 yards of total offense and never punted in rolling to a 54-14 victory over Plains on Friday.
Viking kickers headed to state
The Bigfork Vikings are headed to the state playoffs.
Mark McCoy
Mark Raymond McCoy, 56, passed away Oct. 12, 2013.
Don't look for grown-ups in government
With the government partially closed for over two weeks now and the debt-ceiling deadline upon us, the pundits are demanding that the “grown-ups in the room” finally put a stop to the childish goings-on in Washington.
Wednesday, October 16
XC runners control pace at home meet
Bright green jerseys dominated the finishing chute at the Whitefish Invitational cross-country meet Saturday as the Bulldogs cruised to a pair of team victories on their home turf.
Boys soccer readies for playoff battle with Park High
The Whitefish boys soccer team capped their regular season with a pair of conference wins last week, shutting out Columbia Falls 3-0, and outlasted Bigfork 3-1. The two victories were more than enough to lock up a No. 1 seed in the upcoming Class A state playoffs.
Election 2013: Meet council candidate Life Noell
Life Noell has seen a lot of changes in Whitefish since his family first moved here in 1996 from Florida. Businesses and buildings downtown have come and gone and the town as a whole has progressed and expanded.
Girls soccer earns No. 1 seed for state playoffs
The Whitefish girls soccer team wrapped up their first conference title since 2010 last weekend with a dominate 10-1 victory at home over Bigfork.
Love of tennis shared by Whitefish siblings
On any given day, as long as there isn’t snow on the ground, you’ll likely find the Frampton siblings out whacking yellow tennis balls around on their backyard court outside of Whitefish.
Election 2013: Meet council candidate Andy Feury
After a five-year hiatus, former Whitefish mayor Andy Feury is excited about the opportunity to get back into Whitefish politics.
Defense leads Dogs past Park High
The Whitefish defense was tested, but didn’t break as the Bulldogs escaped Livingston on Friday with a 6-0 non-conference football victory over Park High.
Outdoor industry focus of economic summit
Some big names in the outdoor industry will speak at a conference hosted by the National Parks Conservation Association next week.
Zinke considers campaign for House seat
Whitefish resident and former state Sen. Ryan Zinke announced Monday that he has formed an exploratory committee as he considers a 2014 campaign for Montana’s lone seat in the U.S. House of Representatives.
Proposed cell tower may help baseball team
The Glacier Twins could receive a small infusion of cash from a proposed cell phone tower at Memorial Park.
John Cameron Dustin
John Cameron Dustin, 61, passed away on Friday, Sept. 6, 2013 at his home in Seeley Lake after an eight month battle with cancer.
Council sorts out funding plan for parking garage
Whitefish will move forward with a Special Improvement District as the funding mechanism for a planned downtown parking garage.
Whitefish hospital expands financial assistance
In an effort to ease the financial burden for uninsured and underinsured patients, North Valley Hospital in Whitefish and its outreach clinics are offering a more liberal financial aid policy.
WMS athletes are running with a smile
Ask members of the Whitefish Middle School cross-country team to describe their experience running for the Bulldogs and the response ranges from “fun” to “exhilarating” to “scrumdiddlyumptious.”
Police calls: Dogs go after laying hens
Glacier Park reopens after 16-day shutdown
Glacier National Park reopened Thursday morning, Oct. 17, after a partial government shutdown ended late the night before.
Trial date set in Glacier Park murder case
A trial date has been set for the Kalispell newlywed accused of killing her husband by pushing him off a cliff in Glacier National Park.
Bigfork VFW commander builds outreach to veterans
The Bigfork Veterans of Foreign Wars sits in a modest building along Montana 35.
Meeting next week on Bigfork grading changes
An informational meeting about standards-based grading will be Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. in the Bigfork schools cafeteria.
Bigfork's annual Tamarack Time a success
The 25th annual Tamarack Time was a success.
Wildcats playoff hopes dashed
The Columbia Falls boys soccer team had one last shot at making the Class A playoffs Tuesday, Oct. 15, but they fell way short.
Zinke considers run for U.S. House
Former state senator Ryan Zinke, of Whitefish, announced Oct. 14 that he has formed an exploratory committee as he considers a 2014 run for the U.S. House of Representatives.
Mundel second at Whitefish
Kats look good, then falter against Frenchtown
Wildkats get back at Whitefish, win 2-1
Cats drub Broncs 54-13, now 6-0
Long-time councilor recognizes changes here over the decades
Long-time resident Mike Shepard is looking forward to serving the community one more time on the Columbia Falls City Council.
City council candidate wants improvements on Nucleus Ave.
Running on empty
George Riley
George Harvey Riley, 53, of Columbia Falls, died Oct. 9, 2013.
Tuesday, October 15
Flathead County board openings
The following Flathead County boards have openings with terms beginning Jan. 1. Anyone interested in serving on a board can submit a letter of interest with relevant information to the Flathead County Board of Commissioners, 800 South Main Street, Room 302, Kalispell MT 59901 by Nov. 15. For more information, call 406-758-5537.
Community news
Chief speaks on bike licensing and prescription drug disposal
Wildcats' playoff hopes alive
Wildcats tuning up for speech season
Triplett qualifies for World Finals rodeo
Furloughed rangers volunteering
Leo Schaefer
Montana's Forest Products Week
This week marks the third annual Montana “Forest Products Week.” In 2011, the state legislature set aside a week every October in order to recognize the value of Montana’s forest products industry, their contribution to the management of our forest lands, and to the stability of Montana’s economy.
National park rangers ask public not to shoot messenger
In recent days, media coverage regarding the actions of National Park Service rangers has been less than flattering. The image of a United States Congressman yelling at a Park Ranger — doing her job as she was directed — was shameful.
Monday, October 14
Magazine reports bizarre twist to Glacier Park case
Inside information reported in the Oct. 14 National Enquirer magazine, if true, might explain what happened when Jordan Graham, 22, allegedly pushed her husband, Cody Johnson, 25, off a cliff in Glacier National Park on July 7.
Gaiser wins seniors division in Le Grizz run
A record 99 runners out of 103 starters completed the 32nd Le Grizz 50-Mile Ultramarathon foot race on Saturday, Oct. 12.
Avis Corcoran
Avis B. Corcoran, 90, of Columbia Falls, passed away in Whitefish on Oct. 10, 2013.
Friday, October 11
Plans scrapped for Whitefish resort hotel
Plans to construct a $70 million resort hotel and convention center in Whitefish have been scrapped.
Melanson, Ware win speeches for Bigfork Toastmasters
Ron Melanson of the Bigfork chapter of Toaastmasters International won second place in Table Topics competition at the area speech contest in Kalispell.
Russell Leroy Miller sentenced in pornoggraphy case
Bigfork resident Russell Leroy Miller was sentenced to pay a $10,000 fine for possession of child pornography.
Taking personal accountability of your life
By Rev. Donald Lamson
Bigfork High School music instructor seeks instruments for band
Randi Tunnell wants to be instrumental in building Bigfork High’s band.
Montana's wolf management challenge
Fewer than 10 years after wolves from Canada were placed in Yellowstone National Park, 153 wolves were making a living in Montana where the overall population had already grown beyond federal recovery goals.
Woman critically injured in standoff
A 54-year-old Columbia Falls woman was critically injured Thursday night, Oct. 10, when SWAT Team members shot her as she approached them with a loaded handgun.
'Drill, baby, drill' - Montana's oil and gas reality
In light of a recent commentary by Tom Power, former economics professor at the University of Montana, it’s apparent that much education is needed on the issue of America’s energy revolution.
Feds say states can pay for reopening national parks
Interior Secretary Sally Jewel announced Oct. 10 that the federal government will allow states to pay the costs of reopening some national parks during the partial government shutdown that had reached its 10th day.
Thursday, October 10
Compromise needed to address national debt
Rather than viewing the recent slight uptick in the economy and leveling off in the national debt as a harbinger of a positive future, John Snow believes it is diverting national attention from the debt crises that continues to pose a mortal threat to out country.
CSKT water compact is flawed
The Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes proposed water compact should protect existing uses of water both on and off the reservation. The existing human impact on the 8.4 million acre feet of water flowing down the Flathead River each year is so small that it can not be measured. There is not a water shortage.
Orvis, Xanterra, GPI in joint conference next week
Some big names in the outdoor industry will speak at a conference hosted by the National Parks Conservation Association next week.
Vikings roll to big Homecoming win over Troy
Troy didn’t bring enough horses to Friday’s football game in Bigfork.
Cold, snowy winter forecasted for the Northwest
Skiers, snowboarders, snowmobilers, snowshoers and anyone else who loves snow will appreciate AccuWeather’s long-term forecast for this winter — the Rocky Mountains and the Pacific Northwest will be buried in snow.
Park Service retirees claim huge impacts by shutdown
The Coalition of National Park Service Retirees announced Oct. 10 that the 10-day long partial shutdown of the federal government had shut out 7 million visitors nationwide and cost gateway communities $750 million in lost spending by visitors.
The U.S. needs to stop demonizing Iran
Not everyone wants the United States to improve relations with Iran. Some prefer war instead. Not because Iran is a threat to the American people, or the Israelis, but because a friendly Iran would no longer furnish the convenient enemy the hawks in the United States and Israel need.
Wednesday, October 9
Tabish rallies to win state golf tourney
Cool, clam and collected. Whitefish golfer Erin Tabish grabbed control of the Class A state tournament on Saturday and sailed to her first individual state championship.
Savings found as WHS work continues
Budget savings are still being found as construction of the new Whitefish High School continues.
Election 2013: Meet council candidate Jen Frandsen
Jen Frandsen’s passion for hard work and community involvement is deeply rooted in her family’s working-class heritage.
Road work 'way ahead of schedule'
The massive reconstruction project on West Second Street is ticking along at a good pace. If the weather cooperates and all goes as planned, phase I could be completed as soon as the end of November.
Election 2013: Meet council candidate Pam Barberis
A clean mountain lake. Snow on the ski hill. Miles of trails out the back door.
City hosts open house on 93 West corridor plan
A public meeting to discuss the Whitefish Highway 93 West corridor plan is scheduled for Tuesday, Oct. 15 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. at City Hall.
Grant brings back school resource officer
The Whitefish Police Department has received a grant that will return a police officer to the Whitefish School District.
Jeanette JP Helmot Krona
Jeanette “JP” Helmot Krona, 71, passed away Sept. 24, 2013, with her family by her side at Immanuel Lutheran Home due to complications from Alzheimer’s disease.
Pitman reflects on time at Whitefish Theatre Company
A group of theater enthusiasts gathered together in the fall of 1978 to talk about starting a community theater. What would come of those meetings is the Whitefish Theatre Co. known today for its season of theater, music and dance.
Corne' and Carrara married
Erika Ann Corne’ and Andrew Michael Carrara were married on Aug. 10, 2013 at the home of the bride’s parents in Whitefish.
Boys XC wins at Thompson Falls
The Whitefish boys cross country team posted their first win of the season last weekend at the Thompson Falls Invitational.
Is the sun setting on America?
America is in crisis. Admiral Mike Mullen, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, recently stated that the greatest threat facing our nation is our enormous debt. While the magnitude of our $16.5 trillion debt is nearly incomprehensible in size, irresponsible in creation and reckless for our children’s future, the monetary threat perishes compared to the danger of losing trust in America itself.
Kristy Olson
Kristy Renee “Sparky” Olson passed away, still fighting, on Sept. 28, 2013. She was 38 year old.
Thanks from Michigan
My husband and I are from Michigan and were visiting Glacier National Park at the end of September. While there I had a medical emergency and I would like to thank the people who helped get me medical attention and to the hospital in a very timely manner.
The Met: Live in HD opera a success
Hats off to all the donors to, and members of, the Whitefish Arts Council, especially Carol Atkinson, who worked hard to bring the Live at the Met performance to the Whitefish Performing Arts Center on Saturday.
Thomas Michael Unger
Thomas Michael Unger passed away peacefully at his home on Sept. 21, 2013.
Police calls: Numerous reports of bears getting into garbage
Water, garbage rates to increase this month
Residents in Whitefish will see an increase on their water and garbage bill beginning this month.
Canyon School questions
My sister and I visited Hungry Horse in August. We lived in Hungry Horse in 1968-1969 and went to a school house for our elementary years. We walked, yes walked, from the church on the corner there through the open public park across the street then down over to the school. And we walked home.
New beginning: Father of Benghazi hero moves to Bigfork
A man who lost his son in the 9-11 attack in Benghazi, Libya has moved to Bigfork.
Kats win at home, split on the road
C-Falls drubs Bigfork and Libby on the road
Cats split bill, tough road ahead for playoff berth
Chisholm shoots 201 at state golf
Flathead River land put into conservation trust
Environmental groups petition to intervene in Badger-Two Medicine lawsuit
Government shutdown had minimal impact so far
Climate change could wipe out Glacier Park bugs
Man in meth-fueled high speed chase sentenced
Plea deal in Stoltze copper theft case
Plum Creek donates $3,000 to academy
Nomad lands big purchase agreement
Tuesday, October 8
Girls soccer suddenly dominate
Two more games and two more big wins for the suddenly dominate Whitefish girls soccer team.
Killer of Whitefish soldier gets 30 years
AKE CHARLES, La. (AP) — A 28-year-old Army veteran, who pleaded guilty in June to second-degree murder in the 2010 slaying of a Whitefish soldier at Fort Polk, has been sentenced in federal court in Lake Charles.
Boys soccer regains mojo with victory
The Whitefish boys soccer team stormed back into the win column on Tuesday with an impressive 6-1 conference victory over a physical Polson team.
Bulldogs oust Pirates on homecoming
Resiliency, heart and a good dose of old-fashioned toughness.
Whitefish volleyball nearly pulls off epic comeback
The Whitefish volleyball team mounted a spirited comeback attempt Thursday against Libby that nearly blew the roof off the newly remodeled gym.
Good people in the world
My husband and I are from Michigan and were visiting Glacier National Park at the end of September. While there I had a medical emergency, and I would like to thank the people who helped get me medical attention and to the hospital in a very timely manner. I know some of the names of the people but many I do not.
New license plate supports Wildcat sports
Williams transfers to CSU-Pueblo program
Stolte, Brunz run well at Thompson Falls
Federal shutdown forces Le Grizz race move to N. Fork
Community news
Lindeen answers questions about Obamacare
Man sentenced for clandestine meth lab
Monday, October 7
Plans unveiled for East 2nd road work
The city of Whitefish will unveil plans for the reconstruction of East Second Street during an open house in the City Council chambers from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Monday.
Phone, email
Call 837-3151 or email editor@bigforkeagle.com
Big thanks
We would like to thank the Columbia Falls area Realtors for their recent food drive to help us help our neighbors who are having a rough time.
America in crisis
America is in crisis. Admiral Mike Mullen, the former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, recently stated that the greatest threat facing our nation is our enormous debt. While the magnitude of our $16.5 trillion debt is nearly incomprehensible in size, irresponsible in creation and reckless for our children’s future, the monetary threat perishes compared to the danger of losing trust in America itself.
Friday, October 4
Montana is No. 2 in deer-vehicle collisions
Newlywed faces premeditated murder charge
The 22-year-old Kalispell newlywed accused of pushing her husband off a cliff in Glacier National Park this summer has been charged with first degree murder.
Montana Teachers of the Year support Common Core
As Montana Teachers of the Year, our lifework has been dedicated to engaging Montana students in learning experiences that prepare them for the challenges and opportunities of the future — as individuals at home, work, service and play and as members of local, state, national and international communities pursuing the common good.
Gov. Bullock, it's time to act on climate change
In 2005, then-Gov. Brian Schweitzer directed Montana’s Department of Environmental Quality to create a Climate Change Advisory Council to find cost-effective solutions to global warming. Schweitzer had been in office less than a year, and this seemed like a promising first step on climate change for his administration. But almost eight years later, the state’s resolve to act on climate seems to have dissolved.
Thursday, October 3
Montana ranks second in deer-vehicle collisions
A new report shows Montana drivers have a 1 in 65 chance of colliding with a deer at some point in the next year — the second highest rate in the nation.
Vikes shoot down Coyotes, 46-14
The Bigfork Vikings pretty much had their way with the Shelby Coyotes last week, and are preparing for a Homecoming game Friday against Troy.
Nighttime 55 mph speed limit permanent for Swan Hwy
The Montana Transportation Commission unanimously approved a permanent 55 mph nighttime speed limit on Montana Highway 83 last week.
O Canada! Waterton Lakes hike reveals beautiful scenery
It was a hike and a half.
Gill netting: Flathead Lake could be next test case for controversial program
Although Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks has been using gill netting on Swan Lake for five years, that doesn’t necessarily mean that it should be used on Flathead Lake.
No sign of end to Congressional impasse
Impacts from federal shutdown vary across government
This stand off was inevitable
There has been a lot of back and forth between Republicans recently wondering whether House conservatives and Ted Cruz “should’ve/could’ve.” But whether House and Senate conservatives had started earlier with demands about Obamacare on the continuing resolution or asked for different things like a delay in the employee mandate first instead of outright defunding, this or another impasse was inevitable because of the deep-seated and yet-to-be-resolved difference of opinion on the role, scope, reach and cost of government itself that so deeply divides the nation.
Wednesday, October 2
Whitefish man sentenced for heroin possession
A Whitefish man has been sentenced to five years in jail and five years of probation after being convicted of felony drug possession.
Collins new housing authority director
Lori Collins enjoys helping families find a clean, safe and affordable place to live in Whitefish.
Girls soccer stays undefeated in conference
The Lady Bulldog soccer team kept its winning streak going last week with a pair of impressive victories over Polson and Stevensville.
Whitefish woman pleads guilty to fifth DUI
A Whitefish woman pleaded guilty to her fifth offense of drunk driving three weeks after being arraigned.
Cuts cripple affordable housing efforts
Faced with an ever shrinking budget due in large part to cuts in federal housing assistance, the Whitefish Housing Authority continues to search for ways to help low- and moderate-income families find affordable housing.
New subdivision on Lion Mountain planned
Plans for a new subdivision on Lion Mountain are in the works.
Boys soccer looks for fighting spirit
The Whitefish boys soccer team never even put on their cleats at practice Monday.
Albertina Duenweg Valencia
Albertina Duenweg Valencia, 99, passed away peacefully in her sleep in Whitefish on Sept. 23 from natural causes.
Worthy Page Tuttle
Worthy Page Tuttle died peacefully at her home in Whitefish on Sept. 19.
Church to host 'pet blessing' on Saturday
All Saints’ Episcopal Church will conduct the annual Blessing of the Pets in honor of St. Francis Day at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 5.
After hours pet care in Whitefish
It was great to read the article on Daisy the dog (Whitefish Pilot, Sept. 18) who was attacked by the bear, and to hear of her positive outcome after treatment at Flathead Pet Emergency.
Whitefish literary journal seeking submissions
What do you hunger for? What feeds your hunger? What satiates your hunger?
Dogs shut out in battle with Wildcats
Whitefish football coach Chad Ross knew Friday’s rival contest at Columbia Falls would come down to a battle in the trenches. He just didn’t expect a result that was so one-sided.
Police calls: Another rash of vehicle break-ins
Fire safety: Keep an eye on what you fry
How often has the doorbell rung or a child interrupted you while you were cooking, causing you to forget about the chicken you left sizzling on the stove - until smoke filled the house?
Board rejects phase 3 of Great Northern Heights
A revised plan for phase 3 of the Great Northern Heights neighborhood failed to receive approval from the Whitefish City-County Planning Board at their September meeting.
Map and compass course offered
The Montana Wilderness Association, Silver Cloud Associates, and Snappy Sport Senter are happy to announce the timely offering, on October 12th, of an outdoor educational program entitled Reading Map, Compass, Tracks and Sign. Participants will receive classroom instruction on reading and understanding topographical maps with an emphasis on practical trip planning. Please bring a calculator, scale or ruler (1/10th of an inch scale preferred), pencils, reading glasses, and a Silva Ranger adjustable declination compass. Snappy's will have this compass available at a sale price for purchase, and a few will be available for use. Students will also be given instruction in the use of this compass. Additional classroom time will be spent familiarizing the student with the basics of tracking, characteristics of animal families, patterns and gaits. A field session will follow, with folks utilizing compass and pacing skills, and practicing tracking and sign recognition techniques learned in the classroom.
Can Iran trust the United States?
People ask whether the United States can trust Iran. The better question is whether Iran can trust the United States.
Forest Service lands still open during shutdown
While the federal government shutdown Sept. 30 forced Glacier National Park to close its borders to vacationers, most lands on the Flathead National Forest will remain open.
House Speaker John Boehner - then and now
The Republican Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, John Boehner, and I are friends. We have seldom visited since I left the Congress in 1997, but during John’s first years in the House, I was the chairman of an education committee of which he was a member.
Kats beat Lady Bulldogs in three
Kats settle for tie vs. Polson
Wildcats drop Pirates, 2-0
Wildcats crush Bulldogs, 21-0
Flathead Forest forges ahead with Forest Plan
Kootenai Forest Plan recommends wilderness on Whitefish Range
Glacier Institute celebrates 30th anniversary
Just 10 years ago, the Glacier Institute had to borrow money just to make its payroll. Today, the nonprofit organization that makes the woods a classroom for about 1,200 students and 600 adults each year has a nest egg of $250,000.
Concession contract will 'pull apart the lodges'
Common Core teaching coming to C-Falls
Seat belt award goes to C-Falls woman
C-Falls man pleads not guilty to pot grow
C-Falls native heads national nonprofit
Bozeman woman killed in weekend crash ID'd
A Bozeman woman is dead after crashing a stolen BNSF Railway vehicle into a tree Saturday morning in Whitefish.
Tuesday, October 1
Government shutdown closes gates to Glacier Park
The birds are still singing, the elk still bugling, but a federal government shutdown at midnight Monday effectively closed Glacier National Park to all but a select few people.
Farm Bill also expired with shutdown
Farmers and ranchers, along with 90 percent of the country, are frustrated with Congress. Aside from shutting down the government, the one-year farm bill extension Congress granted last session also expired at midnight, while the new Farm Bill has yet to formally reach the conference process.
Mundel breaks school cross-country record
Glacier Lanes bowling results
Chisholm qualifies for state golf
