Community loses two icons

The Flathead Valley lost two treasured community leaders last week with the deaths of Whitefish's Ted Lund and Kalispell civic leader Dan Korn.

Lund was the epitome of community spirit and an ardent promoter for Whitefish. As one of the original colorful penguin characters, he was there for the first Whitefish Winter Carnival and had a hand in celebrating the carnival's 50th anniversary earlier this year. Whether it was cheering on the Bulldog sports teams or helping with the town's Christmas decorations, Lund gave it his all, and Whitefish is better because of the legacy he left.

Korn's leadership abilities ran the gamut, from his work as a Rotarian to serving as director of the Salvation Army. The longtime Kalispell car dealer also was recognized for his contributions to the Boy Scouts and Kalispell school district. His community service was recognized in 2001 when Korn was presented with the 30th Great Chief Award by the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce.

Both Lund and Korn were World War II veterans. Their service to country and community certainly shows why they were part of "The Greatest Generation."

WHEN IT COMES to school leadership, the Flathead Valley seems to be at the top of the state.

The recent naming of Kalispell Public Schools Superintendent Darlene Schottle as Montana's 2010 Superintendent of the Year continues a sterling trend of recognition of Flathead school administrators.

Schottle is the fourth-straight local school leader to win the award, following Columbia Falls Superintendent Michael Nicosia (2007), Whitefish Superintendent Jerry House (2008) and Evergreen Superintendent Joel Voytoski (2009).

Schottle's honor was based partly on the steady guidance she has provided during years of major change in Kalispell schools, ranging from the building of a new high school to curriculum overhaul.

We're glad to see that other superintendents recognize the fine work Schottle has done here.

FINALLY, a grateful acknowledgment to the three Montana Highway Patrol troopers who gave their lives in the line of duty recently.

The state of Montana has dedicated portions of three highways to the memory of Troopers David Graham, Evan Schneider, and Mike Haynes. It is the hope of their families and fellow officers that the dedication signs will serve as a reminder to other drivers to drive cautiously and legally.

In a sense now, the troopers remain on duty protecting us and our highways.