Ellington

Legals August 31, 2016

No. 2339 PUBLIC NOTICE OF FOOD VENDOR PERMIT APPLICATION The City of Whitefish Planning Department has received the following Food Vendor Permit application: 1. A request by Tyler Wells, owners, The Pie Cart, for a Food Vendor permit for a meat pie cart in the parking lot at 20 Baker Avenue, Whitefish, Montana, the VFW Lion Mountain Post, for one-year permit beginning June 18, 2015. The subject area is located in WB-3 Zoning District, and can be legally described as Whitefish, Block 26, Lots 5-10, Section 36, Township 31 North, Range 22 West, P.M.M., Flathead County, Montana. The complete application may be reviewed at the Whitefish Planning & Building Department. Written comments concerning the request should be directed to the David Taylor at Whitefish Planning, 510 Railway Street, Whitefish, Montana 59937, (406) 863-2410. Send comments via email to: dtaylor@cityofwhitefish.org. Comments should be received by September 14, 2016, by 5:00 pm, at close of business. August 31, 2016 MNAXLP

Police kill mountain lion in town

Whitefish Police shot and killed a mountain lion outside a home on West 6th Street Sunday night.

Kindergarten enrollment nears limit

The kindergarten pod at Muldown Elementary will be bustling with more students than classrooms available this school year. As of last week, 134 students are registered for kindergarten — up from the 119 at the end of last school year.

The endless prost

Kevin Collom found what might be considered an unusual talent six years ago while holding a full stein of beer straight in front of him at the Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish.

Transient troubles 'frustrating' for some downtown businesses

July 20 at 2 p.m., a call comes into the Whitefish Police dispatch. A group of transients with dogs have been hanging out at a city park near the Whitefish River for the past few days. The caller tells police he’s concerned. He’s with his grandmother and the transients are being “very loud and confrontational.”

Dorthea “Peggy” Rowlatt

Dorthea “Peggy” Rowlatt, 95, died Aug. 11, 2016 in St. Petersburg, Florida, of natural causes.

Gerald Lee “Gerry” Parsons

Gerald Lee “Gerry” Parsons, 94, died Aug. 17, 2016, peacefully, surrounded by his beloved family. His final words were “I love you, hon.”

Glacier Skate Academy summer ice show

Corson new director at music school

North Valley Music School has hired Deidre Corson as the new executive director of the nonprofit school in Whitefish.

Sharing success stories from Graduation Matters Montana

As a kid, the end of summer usually meant the last of playing outside all day, fishing trips and endless bike rides around Browning with friends. The upside would be that I’d get new shoes and clothes and the anticipation of meeting my new teacher and classmates. Now as the leader of Montana’s public schools, I’m just as excited for students to walk into their classrooms and take on the school year because innovative programs are at the ready.

Candidates look at property tax issues

We had a round table meeting back in mid-July with legislators, candidates and lakeshore property owners about property taxes. The problems that were brought up, however, impact all property tax payers and not just lakeshore owners.

We do not have a fire problem; we have a land management problem

While reasonable people might disagree on any number of issues, we agree that Theodore Roosevelt was right. Our public lands belong to all Americans and are best managed under federal protection. Roosevelt defied convention and courageously acted to save America’s diminishing natural resources, bringing 230 million acres of public land under increased protection as national forests, refuges, parks and monuments.

Benefits of WHS writing mentors

As a high school English teacher, I would like to take a moment to express my belief in the power of written communication and to highlight some of benefits of the Writing Mentors program at Whitefish High School, supported by the Whitefish Education Foundation.

When are enough casinos enough?

Just recently on a lazy summer day my family and I received a distressing letter in our mailbox here on Hodgson Road. A letter from the Planning and Zoning Office with a potential diagnosis of the big “C”: Casino. Right next to and adjoining our property.

Meeting objectives of sustainability

It is important the public understands the mechanics of the vote by the Whitefish School Board Trustees Aug. 17 regarding the Center For Applied Sustainability.

Learning to think beyond oneself

I’d like to voice my support for the new, exciting project happening in the Whitefish Schools — the Center for Applied Sustainability. The idea for this learning center is a long-term concept that is extremely positive for our students and will be used for all grade levels K-12.

Support the practical candidate

I went to school with Chet Billi, and he was always outspoken. If something was being taught in the class that Chet believed was false or misrepresented, he spoke up. He’s not afraid to stand on principle, and the people of Whitefish need someone who won’t be afraid to fight for them.

From the outside looking In

It has been a extreme pleasure to visit your city once again this summer. My wife and I fell in love with the people of Whitefish on random ski adventure years ago and we have returned to enjoy being Whitefished. We love it so much we are planning to retire in the area soon. Oh yes, another Californian escaping what California has become. Please indulge an outsider’s view of your gifts.

Police plan extra patrols for Labor Day weekend

Law enforcement agencies across the state will deploy extra patrols during the final weeks of the summer season.

Masked man spotted on trestle

Sunday, Aug. 21

Whitefish property owners appeal annexation ruling

A group of property owners along the east shore of Whitefish Lake has appealed a Flathead District Court ruling over annexation to the Montana Supreme Court.

Casazza, Hanson withdrawn from state election

Two Flathead County candidates for the state Legislature will not appear on the November ballot after failing to file required documents, according to state officials.

City Hall construction nears another milestone

Another milestone is approaching for the new City Hall and parking structure under construction in downtown Whitefish. The first of the elevated parking decks is scheduled to be placed the week after Labor Day.

Ski pass sales planned in Whitefish

Skiers and snowboarders have one month to secure a winter season pass to Whitefish Mountain Resort at the early season rates.

Bear injures employee picking berries in Glacier

An off-duty employee of Glacier National Park was injured by a bear Saturday evening on the east side of Glacier, according to a park spokesman.

Mark Mance wins Mid-Am Championship

Mark Mance became the first male Montana State Amateur Champion from Whitefish when he won the 2016 State Am Tournament in Polson a couple of weeks ago. Mark was really impressive, having finished the last 40 holes of the three-day event without a bogey.

Lady Dogs finish second at Libby XC Invite

The Whitefish cross-country season is off and running following Saturday’s invitational in Libby.

Whitefish goes 8-2 at Tip-Off Tourney

The Whitefish volleyball team kicked off its season last weekend, taking fourth overall in the Northwest vs. Southwest Tip-Off tournament held at Whitefish High School.

Dogs prepare for title rematch

Although the Bulldogs travel to Dillon Friday in a rematch of last year’s dramatic state title game, Whitefish head coach Chad Ross stressed it won’t be last year’s teams taking the field.

Ponies steamroll Dogs in season opener

It was a slow start for the defending state champions of Whitefish, falling 18-6 to Havre Saturday afternoon at Memorial Field in the traditional football season-opener for both teams. The Blue Ponies return home with the BNSF Trophy for the first time since 2011.

High-tech taxi

As the popular ride-sharing app Uber moves into Montana, Whitefish already has its own local driver.

Guitar dreams

Emily Freudenberger grew up watching her uncle play guitar, but every time she tried to emulate him she couldn’t.

Bear activity prompts reminder to secure trash cans

The Whitefish Police Department is reminding folks to keep their trash cans put away until the day of collection to keep bears from getting into them.

Council OKs retail shift for Hwy 93 corridor

Whitefish City Council has decided it’s willing to allow some retail business traditionally associated with downtown to seep into the U.S. Highway 93 corridor as long as it’s controlled.

City considers water, sewer rate increase

In a move designed to better align rates with the cost of service and plan for the future, the city of Whitefish is considering an increase to its water and wastewater rates.

Skate shows feature TV classics

Glacier Skate Academy will present Prime Time as part of its summer show series this Saturday at Stumptown Ice Den.

City needs to consider seniors

Realizing the agenda for City Council on Aug. 15 at the Whitefish City Hall included the budget, I attended to comment. Having been told funds for the maintenance of sidewalks and bike paths had been expended, I asked for consideration for an increase.

Middle School reminds drivers not to idle cars

The new school year begins next Wednesday at Whitefish Schools and once again drivers will be dropping off students to attend classes. With that in mind, Whitefish Middle School is reminding drivers to turn off their vehicles while waiting for students.

Offering public apology

I would like to issue a public apology to the poor young lady with whom my sister and I had an unexpected encounter on Friday evening. Your grace under the pressure of the situation and my unfortunate remarks about it was truly remarkable. I hope both you and your pup were not hurt. Unfortunately, we have these encounters with dogs that are not leashed and we’re the ones who get yelled at and taken to task, so I thank you for your understanding and hope you will accept our sincere apology.

Jim King

Jim King was born in Kalispell Oct. 11, 1934 and died at home in Whitefish after a brief bout with cancer on Aug. 20, 2016.

Theater announces shows for upcoming season

Including community theatre productions, world music and more, Whitefish Theatre Company has announced the shows that make up its 2016-2017 season.

A fresh start for the new school year

August is an exciting time where we soak up the best days of summer and begin to shift our focus to the beginning of the new school year on Aug. 31. Each year, the start of school is rejuvenating as we settle into a new rhythm. The cyclical nature of the school year provides students, families and teachers with a fresh start— opportunities to build new relationships and the chance to meet new people as we provide the foundation for developing responsible citizens.

City extends moratorium on PUD developments

The city of Whitefish has extended its moratorium on planned unit development overlays that include blending density zoning.

Middle school reminds drivers to turn off their cars

As the Whitefish Middle School Student Council, we are very happy to announce that we’re joining the Clean Air Zone Montana project in keeping kids safe from exhaust emissions. The Clean Air Zone Montana project is a statewide program aimed at reducing children’s exposure to the school bus diesel and exhaust coming from idling cars. We are asking that other drivers, as well as school bus drivers, turn off their vehicles while waiting for their kids outside of the school and other gathering places.

Hearing on casino postponed

A public hearing for a tavern and casino planned off U.S. 93 near Happy Valley has been rescheduled for the Flathead County Board of Adjustment’s Sept. 6 meeting.

Bulldog girls claim first in opening tourney

The Whitefish High School golf team teed off their season at the Northwest A Kickoff tournament at Whitefish Lake Golf Club last week.

Birthday bash raises money for WAG Park

The dogs wore leis and beach music filled the gazebo Friday evening at Hugh Rogers WAG Park.

Lady Bulldogs look to build on experience

After making it to the state semi-final game last season, Lady Bulldogs soccer coach Roland Benedict said he’s excited to see what the team can do this year.

Boys soccer takes the field

With the first week of practice in the books, Bulldogs boys soccer head coach John Lacey said he’s happy with what he’s seen so far.

Major party candidate choices mean looking to third party for president

Like many of my friends and neighbors, I am frustrated with the candidates the two major parties have offered up for president. I do not want to hold my nose and vote for someone I can’t respect, and I don’t want to throw away my right to vote by boycotting the election like some friends say they might.

Casazza, Harwood wed

Cami Casazza, daughter of Mark and Jodi Casazza of Columbia Falls, and Logan Harwood, son of Bryan and Karen Harwood of Whitefish, were married on July 9, 2016.

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Monday, Aug. 15

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Visitors to Glacier National Park can get into the Park for free from Aug. 25-28 in celebration of the Park Service centennial. The actual birthday is Aug. 25.

Swim, pedal, run

The field of competitors at the Whitefish Lake Triathlon this year was smaller than in years past, but the competition was just as strong.

Sunti World Art Gallery welcomes artists in residence

By STEFANIE THOMPSON

First incentive grants announced in Great Fish Challenge

The Whitefish Community Foundation has announced its first grant winners as part of its Great Fish Community Challenge.

Carnival plans for new parade float

Lighter, faster and flashier. Whitefish Winter Carnival has unveiled plans to build a new and improved parade float to haul the Royal Court, and the nonprofit is seeking a little help in reaching its fundraising goal.

City manager search down to four candidates

The city of Whitefish has narrowed its search for a new city manager to four finalists.

City OKs $51 million budget

Whitefish City Council Monday passed the final budget of $51.3 million for fiscal year 2017 that includes a reduction in property taxes.

Hootenanny supports Whitefish Trail

With over 40 miles of trail on the ground and plans for a new trail in Haskill Basin underway, the Whitefish Trail has hit its stride and is celebrating with their annual Whitefish Trail Hootenanny event on Friday, Aug. 26 in Depot Park in downtown Whitefish from 5 to 9 p.m. All ages are welcome and festival-goers are encouraged to walk or ride their bikes to the event.

School budget approved

Enrollment increases and a few extra dollars from the state have led to a small increase in Whitefish School District’s budget for Fiscal Year 2017.

Lake dreams

Trevor, 5, used to be scared of the water. Now, as he sits on a paddleboard as a volunteer takes him out on Whitefish Lake, Trevor dips his feet in with a smile.

Judith (Judy) Ann Earnest

Born in Anaconda on May 14, 1942 to Dominic and Virginia Feeney, Judith Earnest joined her brother James. The family settled in Whitefish, where from an early age Judy exhibited a love for family, friends and others that was a reflection of her faith. She had a joyful time growing up in Whitefish — she cooked with her mother, picked huckleberries with her family, rode her bicycle to the lake in the summer with friends and grew in the graces of God, attending Mass weekly.

Top 5 reasons to vote for Fern

Our local elections stand as our best chance to shape our government. Dave Fern’s bid for House District 5 promises to give us a voice at the State level. After my 10 years of collaboration with Dave on our local school board, I can confidently list my top five good reasons to vote Fern for HD5:

An alpine experience

It’d be disingenuous to describe Alpine Trail No. 7 as a great mountain bike ride. Because let’s be honest, for most weekend warriors like myself, biking across the rugged Swan Mountain crest involves equally as much pushing of the bike as it involves actual pedaling.

Striving to keep Whitefish a great place to live

City Council on Monday voted to approve the fiscal year 2017 budget for Whitefish. The budget provides the authority for the services and projects the city anticipates during the upcoming fiscal year, which runs from July 1, 2016 through June 30, 2017. We are writing as the city wraps up another budget cycle to give our residents a summary of the city’s financial condition and an update on city projects. You can view the entire, proposed budget at www.cityofwhitefish.org.

Looking at China's rise in the world economy

Retired University of Montana Professor Harry Fritz and I recently returned after delivering a series of lectures on the U.S. political system at Nankai University in Tianjin, a city of 12 million people near the Chinese capitol of Beijing. This was my fourth trip to China.

Summer heat brings road rage incidents

Monday, Aug. 8

Huckleberry sushi platter wins Huckleberry Bake-Off

The seventh annual Huckleberry Days Bake-Off Contest was held Saturday during the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce’s annual Huckleberry Days Arts Festival.

Attorney asks to dismiss lawsuit over parking assessment

A request has been made to dismiss a lawsuit against the city of Whitefish over the downtown parking structure currently under construction.

Racers gear up for lake triathlon

Competitors have less than a week to register for this year’s Whitefish Lake Triathlon.

Planning board considers O'Brien Avenue vacation rental

The Whitefish Planning Board on Thursday will review a proposal for a second story vacation rental on O’Brien Avenue.

Fair features rodeo, carnival, exhibits this weekend

It’s all about “Montana’s Best” at the 2016 Northwest Montana Fair & Rodeo Aug. 17-21 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell.

School board approves outdoor learning center

The Whitefish School Board gave a final nod of approval Aug. 9 to move forward with a state-of-the-art outdoor learning center on the high school campus.

Site cleared for groundwater monitoring

The city of Whitefish will no longer be required to monitor groundwater at its parking lot at the corner of Second Street and Spokane Avenue.

Working for fair property tax reform

As we campaign across our local districts we are fortunate to have had the opportunity to speak with hundreds of citizens about their concerns regarding our community. One of the most frequently raised complaints that we hear about is property taxes. Another common theme is the desire to preserve the character and culture of this valley that we call home. There is an important connection between these two issues.

Sustaining a legacy

Under the hot sun of an August morning, players and coaches took to the dew-covered practice field Friday at Whitefish High School, commencing a new season of Bulldog football.

Two grizzly bears frequenting Whitefish neighborhoods relocated

Two grizzly bears that had been wandering in town and south of Whitefish earlier this week were relocated near the Canadian border on Thursday.

House Benghazi Committee chairman stumps for Zinke

The House Benghazi Committee chairman told a roomful of Republican supporters at a Tuesday campaign rally for Montana Republican Rep. Ryan Zinke that it’s time to get the message out to voters about why they should support their candidate in the election.

Legals August 10, 2016

No. 2336 CITY OF WHITEFISH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON kBUDGET AND PROPERTY TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS The Whitefish City Council has completed the City's preliminary budget for fiscal year 2017, its final, proposed budget for fiscal year 2017, the appropriations, tax levy and assessments, and possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2016, which have been placed on file and are open to inspection in the City Clerk's office located at 1005 Baker Avenue. At the regular meeting of the Whitefish City Council to be held on Monday, August 15, 2016, at 7:10 p.m. in the Whitefish City Council Chambers, 1005 Baker Avenue, the City Council will hold a public hearing for the purposes of receiving public input and approving a final budget, making appropriations, fixing the tax levy and assessments, and approving possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2016 for the following: 1) possible amendments to the annual budget for fiscal year 2016; 2) approve a final budget for fiscal year 2017; 3) levy and assess property taxes, including the Permissive Medical Levy 4) levy and assess Street Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; 5) levy and assess Special Improvement Lighting Districts No. 1 and No. 4 within the City; 6) levy and assess Parkland and Greenway Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; 7) levy and assess Stormwater Improvement and Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; 8) levy and assess Special Improvement District No. 166 (JP Road); and 9) levy and assess for weed control, collection of utility service charges, and/or removal of snow, ice and other impediments. The City of Whitefish intends to budget a decrease in revenue from property taxation by 8.43% or $241,586, because of the additional property tax relief resulting from the Resort Tax rate increase of an additional 1% that became effective July 1, 2015. All concerned persons are invited to attend the public hearing on all of the above matters as described above. A decision on approving the budget, taxes, assessments, and possible fiscal year 2016 budget amendments will be made after considering comments at this public hearing. Individuals, any taxpayer or resident may appear or submit written testimony at the hearings and be heard for or against any part of the proposed fiscal year 2016 budget amendments, final budget for fiscal year 2017, appropriations, tax levy and assessments. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to Michelle Howke, City Clerk, 1005 Baker Avenue, PO Box 158, Whitefish, MT 59937, or emailed to mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org. Additional information regarding the proposed amendments, the final budget, property tax revenue, and assessments may be obtained by contacting Dana Smith, Finance Director, 406-863-2405, or visiting the City's website, www.cityofwhitefish.org. August 3, 10, 2016 MNAXLP

Elderly shoplifter banned from grocery

Monday, Aug. 1

Bulldog fall sports practice begins

Whitefish High School fall sports and activities begin this month. Here’s a rundown of startup dates and coach contact information.

Mossfeldt takes first in Club Championship

The 2016 Club Championship at Whitefish Lake Golf Club was another huge success with more than 140 players participating in the two-day event.

Handelman is King of Big Mountain Run

Mark Handelman outpaced the field in a sprint to the top of Big Mountain at Saturday’s annual Big Mountain Run. Handelman clocked a 37:53 on the route up the Danny On trail to earn King of the Mountain status.

Testing for black belt

Twenty-six years of training in Soo Bahk Do will be on display when four students from Sawbuck DoJang in Whitefish test for their black belts later this fall.

Billi understands the Constitution

Chet Billi is the man we need representing Whitefish. He understands the one thing that should unite all Montanans and Americans, that one thing is the Constitution.

What's the plan for Social Security?

Debate after debate, all I hear from some of the candidates are vague proposals on how to make Social Security financially sound.

Wildfires highlight need for forest management reform

The Roaring Lion Fire, burning over 7,000 acres southwest of Hamilton, has already claimed one life and over 60 homes and structures. As fighters continue to battle the blaze, the destruction only underscores the importance of urgently passing forest reform legislation.

Study shows young families settling in Whitefish

Whitefish School District recently commissioned a demographic study that offers some interesting — some might say surprising — insight into the makeup of our community.

Politics has no role in military

When I was commanding men and women on the battlefield, I never asked what their religious affiliation was. It didn’t matter in war. What matters is the individual next to you is patriotic, capable and willing to put their life on the line for their country and their unit. Every soldier, sailor, airman, Marine, or coastguardsman who serves honorably and pays the ultimate sacrifice should be honored and their family thanked.

Strings that bind

Music and family have always gone together for Naomi Barnes. Her mother, a church organist, and father, founding member of the Butte Symphony and French horn player, started her on piano in first grade and violin shortly after. Of her three sisters, two played violin and one played cello. The idea of a family quartet prompted her to try a new instrument.

Huckleberry Bake-Off

The huckleberry — it’s a smallish berry that ranges in color from red to deep purple and only grows in the wild. The flavor is uniquely intense, both sweet and tart.

Klassen remembered for elevating music program

Longtime Whitefish High School band director John Klassen will be remembered for his sense of humor as much as his role in lifting the music department to award-winning status.

Retired educator supports writing coaches

With great admiration I commend the Whitefish High School English students who interacted with the writing coaches this 2015-16 school year.

Billi a political philosopher

I am endorsing Chet Billi for Montana House District 5. When I heard Chet was running, I invited him to my office so I could meet him face to face.

Utah senators back bill to allow mountain bikes in wilderness

While hikers and horses for decades have been the lone travelers in the backcountry, a new bill could put the brakes on a longtime ban on mountain bikes in wilderness areas.

Al Ronseth

Al Ronseth passed away peacefully at home on April 20, 2016, with his wife by his side. Al was born in Minnesota in 1927 to Norwegian immigrants Rognald and Anna Ronseth. In 1928 the family moved to Medstead, Saskatchewan. The family lived there from 1928 to 1934.

36 new wildfires flare up across state

Wildfire activity in the Flathead Valley remains quiet while the fire season has picked up in the rest of Montana.

Council OK's increase to City Hall construction budget

Whitefish City Council has added almost $220,000 to the construction budget for the City Hall and parking structure after contaminated soils at the site depleted the contingency fund for the project.

School greenhouse plan approved

Whitefish High School has received the go-ahead to construct a new greenhouse and outdoor learning center on its campus.

Grizzly put down after trailer break-ins

A grizzly bear that had become food-conditioned has been euthanized after it recently broke into three camp trailers in the North Fork of the Flathead River.

Council considers FY17 budget

Whitefish City Council meets Aug. 15 at 7:10 p.m. at the interim City Hall at 1005 Baker Ave. The following agenda items will be discussed, subject to change:

Boutique-style hotel opens downtown

After months of construction, only small details remained Friday morning as workers rushed around the new Firebrand Hotel. The first guests were expected to arrive later that afternoon and soap dispensers needed to be filled, the sidewalk washed and a few last dabs of paint needed to go up.

Parks and recreation rental, program fees increase

The city of Whitefish is increasing fees for park facility rentals, youth programs and the City Beach boat launch fees.

Zoning debate centers on future of downtown

A request to allow recreation guides and outfitting businesses to operate in the city’s secondary business zoning district quickly turned into a discussion last week about the future of retail business in downtown Whitefish.

Shakespeare in Park at college

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks will perform William Shakespeare’s “Richard III” at Flathead Valley Community College as part of the company’s summer tour of 61 communities throughout Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, North Dakota and Washington. The performance at FVCC is scheduled for Aug. 24 at 6 p.m. and will take place outside. The event is free and open to the public. Spectators are encouraged to arrive early and bring lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

Broadway favorite joins ATP for two Gala Concerts

Broadway actor and longtime audience favorite, Nicholas Ward, will join Alpine Theatre Project for two nights Aug. 19 and 20 at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center for two special concerts. The 2016 Summer Gala Concerts will conclude Alpine Theatre Project’s Summer Repertory Season, which included “The Full Monty,” “Rock of Ages,” and “Man of La Mancha.”

Whitefish man among 214 federal inmates to have sentence commuted

A Whitefish man serving a life sentence for a non-violent drug crime is one of 214 federal prisoners who will have their sentences commuted by President Barack Obama.

Test

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Alpine Theatre Project’s “Man of La Mancha,” starring Susan O’Dea and Metropolitan Opera Principal Baritone Jeff Mattsey, is easily the best theatrical production we have seen since moving to the Flathead in 1979. The songs, the acting, the incredible singing, the captivating dancing — and the brilliantly creative staging — will leave you stunned and grinning and convinced that you were lucky enough to snag tickets for a sellout show on Broadway.

Filmmakers release docu-style thriller 'The Triangle'

Adam Pitman isn’t quite sure how to describe BadFritter Films’ latest cinematic venture “The Triangle.” In fact, the group of Whitefish filmmakers might have created an entirely new genre.

School enrollment forecast to remain steady

Young families moving into Whitefish should help keep local school enrollment steady over the next decade.

Septic pollution a complex issue worth solving

The community of Whitefish faces the challenging issue of septic leachate entering our shared resource, Whitefish Lake. In fact, it is an issue for communities on many lakes in Montana and throughout the United States.

Festival Amadeus brings week of classical music to town

The Glacier Symphony and Chorale is gearing up for Festival Amadeus, a classical concert series in its seventh season.

Caring for her community

Registered Nurse Mona Benson has formed a connection with the patients she sees year after year.

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Monday, July 25

Vivian Hull

Vivian Hull passed away July 28, 2016 after a brief struggle with heart disease. Independent to the end, she remained at her home in Whitefish under the care of family and friends.

Nutrient lawsuit could have impacts in Whitefish

A lawsuit against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency over nutrient discharge limits for state waterways could have implications reaching to Whitefish.

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As a teacher at Whitefish High School, I had the honor of working with a pilot program called the Writing Coaches of Whitefish during the 2015/2016 school year.

County adopts lakeshore protection regulations

The Flathead County commissioners on Monday unanimously adopted an overhaul of the county’s lakeshore protection regulations.

City looks to fill volunteer boards

The city of Whitefish is looking to fill vacancies on several volunteer committees.

Hospital announces new medical leaders

Dr. Jason Cohen will serve as Chief Medical Officer at North Valley Hospital following the retirement of Dr. Ron Miller, and Dr. Ryan Gunlikson will take on the title of Chief of Staff, the hospital announced last week.

Whitefish police to assist Columbia Falls department

The city of Columbia Falls is advertising for a new police chief, but until it hires a new one, Whitefish Assistant Police Chief Mike Ferda will help run the department.

Club Tournament this weekend

The Annual Club Tournament is set for this coming Saturday and Sunday. Everyone is welcome to participate, with prizes in all flights and division.

Employers input needed for housing survey

Employer input needed for housing survey

Glacier Twins take second at state tourney

The Glacier Twins had the defending champion Bitterroot Red Sox on the ropes, bases loaded in the bottom of the ninth Monday in the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A state baseball championship at Great Falls. All the Twins needed was a base hit to keep hope alive for a second state title in three years.

Watermain repairs temporarily close Columbia Ave. bridge

There will be limited access and occasional closures of the Columbia Avenue bridge over the Whitefish River while crews replace a watermain under the bridge.

Lookout preservation

Hidden under Napa Point and overlooking Swan Lake to the northwest, Chuck Manning and Doug Berglund are hard at work repairing the Little Napa fire lookout. The building is a small square room with windows on all sides, raised about 20 feet by wooden crossbeams and accessible via the stairs Manning and Berglund have just finished constructing.

Riding for a cause during Pink Week

Visitors at Artemis Acres guest ranch south of Kalispell will saddle up for a good cause this week during their second annual Pink Week.

Flathead wage growth second highest in state

Wages in Flathead County grew faster than the state average in a strong year for the Montana economy in 2015, but one expert warns an economic slowdown could be on the horizon.

Zinke presents posthumous Bronze Star to Veile family

U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke presented a posthumous Bronze Star medal to the family of World War II veteran and Whitefish native Don Veile during a gathering Friday at the Whitefish VFW.

Legals August 3, 2016

No. 2336 CITY OF WHITEFISH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING ON kBUDGET AND PROPERTY TAXES AND ASSESSMENTS The Whitefish City Council has completed the City's preliminary budget for fiscal year 2017, its final, proposed budget for fiscal year 2017, the appropriations, tax levy and assessments, and possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2016, which have been placed on file and are open to inspection in the City Clerk's office located at 1005 Baker Avenue. At the regular meeting of the Whitefish City Council to be held on Monday, August 15, 2016, at 7:10 p.m. in the Whitefish City Council Chambers, 1005 Baker Avenue, the City Council will hold a public hearing for the purposes of receiving public input and approving a final budget, making appropriations, fixing the tax levy and assessments, and approving possible budget amendments for fiscal year 2016 for the following: 1) possible amendments to the annual budget for fiscal year 2016; 2) approve a final budget for fiscal year 2017; 3) levy and assess property taxes, including the Permissive Medical Levy 4) levy and assess Street Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; 5) levy and assess Special Improvement Lighting Districts No. 1 and No. 4 within the City; 6) levy and assess Parkland and Greenway Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; 7) levy and assess Stormwater Improvement and Maintenance District No. 1 within the City; 8) levy and assess Special Improvement District No. 166 (JP Road); and 9) levy and assess for weed control, collection of utility service charges, and/or removal of snow, ice and other impediments. The City of Whitefish intends to budget a decrease in revenue from property taxation by 8.43% or $241,586, because of the additional property tax relief resulting from the Resort Tax rate increase of an additional 1% that became effective July 1, 2015. All concerned persons are invited to attend the public hearing on all of the above matters as described above. A decision on approving the budget, taxes, assessments, and possible fiscal year 2016 budget amendments will be made after considering comments at this public hearing. Individuals, any taxpayer or resident may appear or submit written testimony at the hearings and be heard for or against any part of the proposed fiscal year 2016 budget amendments, final budget for fiscal year 2017, appropriations, tax levy and assessments. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to Michelle Howke, City Clerk, 1005 Baker Avenue, PO Box 158, Whitefish, MT 59937, or emailed to mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org. Additional information regarding the proposed amendments, the final budget, property tax revenue, and assessments may be obtained by contacting Dana Smith, Finance Director, 406-863-2405, or visiting the City's website, www.cityofwhitefish.org. August 3, 10, 2016 MNAXLP

Goguen files suit against Missouri candidate

Whitefish businessman Michael Goguen has taken to the offensive in an effort to mend his public image.