We extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and friends of Walker Kuhl and Gregory Seftick, two young men who fell victim to a tragic accident while on a camping trip in the Grand Tetons of Wyoming. Once again, we are reminded of how fragile and precious all life is, and yet once again we are also reminded how important it is to live your life fully and well — and to enjoy each moment. Kuhl and Seftick were doing what they loved — enjoying the great outdoors — when they perished last week in an avalanche. It is a devastating loss for their families, but we hope all who knew them will be able to think of these two brave adventurers with fond memories in years to come.They lived life well.

IF YOU WANT to have your say on governance of Flathead Valley cities, this is your chance.

City council positions — four in Kalispell, three in Whitefish (plus the mayor’s post) and three in Columbia Falls — are up for election this year.

Filing opens on May 2 and candidates have until June 30 to file at the Flathead County Election Department for the municipal offices. The general election is Nov. 8.

For those with an interest in helping decide how their cities are run, this election is the opportunity to make a difference.

A WELCOME ADDITION to our community is the new Goodwill store that will open in Evergreen on May 5.

The thrift store promises to be a place where families will be able to shop for quality used merchandise at a reasonable price, and it will also add jobs to our troubled economy.

Evergreen can certainly use some good news, and this will help to get more shoppers to drive in that direction. We think it will ultimately benefit stores like Kmart, Shopko and Snappy Sport Senter as well.

In addition, Goodwill provides a helping hand to many in the community. The organization is committed to vocational training for individuals with developmental, physical or emotional disabilities.

Store hours are 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday. The store is located at 2137 U.S. 2 East in front of the former Ashley Furniture store.