Ellington

Plan to demolish Depot Park building designed to provide benefit to larger community

Dear Mr. Graves:

A look inside Whitefish Schools

As we enter the second half of the school year, I’d like to discuss how Whitefish Schools continues to demonstrate a student-centered and project-based education for our students. This approach is different from many of the schools we grew up in. It is an exciting time in education as we forge ahead in a new direction from traditional school systems.

Rotary continues tradition of Sunday pancakes for Carnival

Members of the Rotary Club of Whitefish spend the Sunday morning each year of Whitefish Winter Carnival flipping pancakes.

City eyes extension of services south of 40

Shifting from historical policy, Whitefish is considering the possibility of extending city services south of Montana 40.

Jane Solberg was among the first women to compete on the slopes of Big Mountain

When Jane Solberg talks about the early days of ski racing, she still sounds competitive enough to test herself against anyone on the slopes.

Sculptors set to mold snow for Winter Carnival

Giant cylinders of snow will become the medium for artistic expression during this weekend’s Snow Sculpture Symposium at Depot Park.

Legals January 31, 2018

No. 2410 CITY OF WHITEFISH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at its regular meeting on Monday, February 5, 2018, at 7:10 PM, in the City Council Chambers, located at 418 E. 2nd Street, Whitefish, MT, the City Council will conduct a hearing for the purpose of receiving public comment regarding proposed changes to the business license fee structure, an increase in business license fees, and an increase in the short-term rental application fee. Individuals may appear or submit written testimony at the hearing to comment on the proposed fee increases. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to the Whitefish City Clerk, PO Box 158, 418 E. 2nd Street, Whitefish, Montana 59937, or emailed to mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org. Additional information may be obtained by visiting the City Clerk's Office or by calling 8632400. January 24, 31, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Whitefish part of study on electric school buses

Whitefish School District will join other schools in the Valley in a study on the potential benefits of using electric school buses.

Protest planned for clinic

Susan Cahill and her All Families Healthcare has made their way into our little town of Whitefish. From what I read, the facility will be offering abortions along with other medical services for women, as if abortions were a service, not a disservice and a tragedy to both mother and child.

What is Whitefish brand?

During the Whitefish Planning Board hearing of Jan. 18 regarding the proposal for Fresh Life Church to construct a church on Central Avenue, a Whitefish residence commented that the church was inconsistent with the tourism brand and small town feel that is Whitefish.

Chamber makes last-minute plea to retain Depot Park building

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce, we are making one last request to the Whitefish City Council to lease the existing Depot Park building to the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce (and other local non-profits) for use as the city’s official visitor center, rather than demolishing it.

Use antibiotics appropriately

“Antibiotics are the only class of drug for which the more we use them, the less effective they are going to be. There’s no way around it; we have to minimize use to avoid resistance,” explains North Valley Hospital Pharmacist Kyle Bitney.

Senior's world of change

Senior year brings a world of changes for high school students. All of a sudden there are a whirlwind of questions and a shortage of answers. What are you doing next year? Any plans for the future? Save a special few, the answer is usually something about which college you applied to or a quick story about not knowing exactly what your plans are. The asker’s response being some half-reassuring words about how you are so young and you don’t need to know what you want yet. Even though these words can be comforting, the stress of not knowing what you want still remains.

Seminar focuses on pushing back against discrimination over aging

Ina Albert considers herself a “perennial” and she wishes more folks would too.

Council holds hearing on short-term rental regs

Whitefish City Council meets on Feb. 5 at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall at 418 E. Second St. The following agenda items will be discussed, subject to change:

Skijoring fun

Skiers, riders and horses alike all came out to Big Mountain Ranch last weekend for this year’s Whitefish Winter Carnival Ski Joring.

Speech grabs second at state meet

Whitefish speech and debate capped off their stellar season led by a couple golds at the state championship.

Wrestlers prepare for divisionals

It’s now or never time for Whitefish wrestlers as they prepare for the Western A Divisional Tournament this week.

Hot second half spurs Dogs past Broncs

An offensive surge in the third quarter gave the Bulldogs the push they needed for their second win against Stevensville Thursday.

Chamber honors community supporters

U.S. Olympic downhiller Hilary Lindh will talk about her medal-winning experience — and a handful of Whitefish business and community leaders will get awards of their own — at the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce’s annual Community Awards Gala, set for the evening of Wednesday, Feb. 7 at the O’Shaughnessy Center.

Twins looking for B team coach

The Glacier Twins American Legion Baseball Association is searching for a new head coach for its Class B team.

Lady Dogs dominate Broncs

The Whitefish girls basketball team held on against Stevensville heading into the final frame but couldn’t finish Thursday.

No headline

Monday, Jan. 22

Whitefish approves snow lot for future housing option

The downtown property where the city of Whitefish stores its snow could one day become housing.

School policy change creates financial flexibility

The Whitefish School Board earlier this month approved changes that gives the district more flexibility in how it spends money.

Audrey Delight Richards

Audrey Richards, 83, of Columbia Falls, Montana passed away surrounded by her loving family on Jan. 20, 2018.

Ingelfinger enjoys sharing passion for environment through education

Cynthia Ingelfinger fondly recalls a family vacation when she was a teen visiting Yellowstone and Teton national parks.

City creates tourism master plan committee

Whitefish has created a city steering committee that will develop a joint tourism master plan between the city and the Whitefish Convention and Visitors Bureau.

City Council roundup

Whitefish City Council, on Jan. 16:

Voisin makes history ahead of Olympics

Whitefish’s Maggie Voisin became the first American woman ever to win the slopestyle skiing competition at the winter X Games Saturday in Aspen, Colorado.

Health officials ask for precaution against spreading influenza as county records more than 300 cases

Influenza is now considered widespread in Montana and Flathead County has recorded more than 300 cases of the virus.

Eddie the Eagle makes appearances for Winter Carnival

Olympian ski jumper Michael Edwards, known as Eddie the Eagle, will make several appearances in Whitefish for Winter Carnival.

Three honored for contributions with induction to Hall of Fame

Family, friends and ski lovers crowded into the Ski Heritage Center Museum of Skiing Friday evening to honor three women who left their mark on Big Mountain.

Publisher's message Whitefish Pilot introduces new digital access model

As the publisher of your community newspaper, I am partly in the business of reporting on change, and nothing has changed more than the news business in the past two decades.

Legals January 24, 2018

No. 2410 CITY OF WHITEFISH NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that at its regular meeting on Monday, February 5, 2018, at 7:10 PM, in the City Council Chambers, located at 418 E. 2nd Street, Whitefish, MT, the City Council will conduct a hearing for the purpose of receiving public comment regarding proposed changes to the business license fee structure, an increase in business license fees, and an increase in the short-term rental application fee. Individuals may appear or submit written testimony at the hearing to comment on the proposed fee increases. Written comments may be delivered or mailed to the Whitefish City Clerk, PO Box 158, 418 E. 2nd Street, Whitefish, Montana 59937, or emailed to mhowke@cityofwhitefish.org. Additional information may be obtained by visiting the City Clerk's Office or by calling 8632400. January 24, 31, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Skijoring event relocates with new track

Whitefish Winter Carnival Ski Joring returns this weekend with a new location and a new track design, that organizers say is sure to improve on an already fun event.

Community stronger because of threats

One year ago our community was threatened with an armed neo-Nazi march by Andrew Anglin and readers of the Daily Stormer. Members of the Jewish community were cyber-attacked and harassed with threatening, anti-Semitic messages that continued over months. Whitefish businesses were attacked with false, libelous reviews online and harassing phone-calls. There was a general sense or fear and anxiety in our community as Martin Luther King Jr. Day approached and we wondered if the neo-Nazis and white supremacists would actually show up to march.

Respect requested after vandalism of Nativity scene

I was deeply troubled to hear from our pastor that the outdoor Nativity scene at St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church in Whitefish was vandalized for the second year in a row and that a decision was made to discontinue the display during the Christmas season. I truly have never understood vandalism, which is nothing other than the pure disregard and disrespect of someone else’s property. I feel sorry for the lives and souls of the individuals that have been so emptied of good that they find amusement in breaking the arms off of religious statues. Is this really entertainment that brings you joy?

Board OKs changes for short-term rentals, seeks additional regulations

New procedures for managing short-term rentals are headed to City Council after the Planning Board recommended approval last week.

Revised project looks to create affordable workforce housing

Hoping the project will create some of the needed affordable housing for the city, the Whitefish Planning Board on Thursday recommended approval for an expansion to the former Deer Creek condominiums off JP Road.

No headline

Monday, Jan. 15

Board OKs small subdivision

A new 10-house subdivision on Colorado Avenue got a thumbs up from the Whitefish Planning Board last week.

Lynn Van Hoven

With his adoring wife Debbie and close “outlaw” buddy of the family Kathy Puryear by his side Lynn Van Hoven passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 13, 2018 after a long battle with pneumonia.

Bob Niles

Bob Niles, 77, passed away on Jan. 10, 2018 in Whitefish.

Dr. Sydney “Syd” Slen

1920 – 2017

Avis Feury

Avis Feury, 91, passed away at home in Whitefish on Jan. 21, 2018.

Olympian holds skating class

Glacier Skate Academy is welcoming Paul Wylie, 1992 Olympic silver medalist, to help with its sixth winter seminar Jan. 26 and 27.

Ring leads swimmers at Missoula Invite

Whitefish swimmers had some standout performances against high level schools Saturday at the Missoula Invite.

Wrestlers prep for Whitefish Duals

Whitefish grapplers held their own against competition from all across the state at the Class A Duals over the weekend.

Dogs can't hold on against Loggers, Pirates

Despite going into halftime with the lead, the Bulldogs couldn’t hold off Polson Saturday night, falling 58-51 in a battle with the Northwest A foe.

Speech gets second ahead of state tourney

Whitefish Speech and Debate is hitting its stride heading into the Class A State Tournament.

Lady Pirates steal tight one over Whitefish

The Lady Dogs were right in it against Polson Saturday evening, but just couldn’t find the three points they needed late in the game.

Mix of new, old favorites at Swift Creek Cafe

The refreshed Swift Creek Cafe is a bit new, but still a bit of what regulars will remember.

WTC presents Black Curtain 'The Shape of Things' this weekend

The Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its second Black Curtain Theatre production of the 2017-2018 season with “The Shape of Things” at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. This thought-provoking and engaging play has performances on Jan. 27 and 28 at 7:30 p.m.

Mental health expert says discussions on suicide important

Suicide is a tough subject, Stacy York notes, but it’s one that needs discussing.

Sheriff Curry not seeking another term

Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry will not seek a third term.

Planning Board turns down Fresh Life Church project

Following three-and-a-half hours of public comment and discussion, the Whitefish Planning Board on Thursday voted unanimously to recommend denial for a proposal by Fresh Life Church to build a mixed-use building on Central Avenue.

Wisconsin resort housing project approved

A substantial resort housing development on Wisconsin Avenue has gained the approval of the Whitefish City Council after traffic routes in the project were revamped.

This 'Gimmic' is the real deal

When Columbia Falls drummer Willie Baltz was at the Kiwanis Jazz Festival last year, he heard Port Nugent of Whitefish play guitar.

Free figure skating

The Glacier Skate Academy will host “Try Figure Skating For Free” at the Stumptown Ice Den in Whitefish on Saturday, Jan. 20 and Saturday, Feb. 24 from 5:15-6:15 p.m. for ages 4- 12. Event includes ice time, skate rental, 15-minute group lesson, and hot chocolate. Group lessons will be provided by Glacier Skate Academy at 5:15 p.m., so please arrive at least 15 minutes early to rent skates. Skate rentals donated by Stumptown Ice Den. Information will be available at the rink regarding ongoing Learn to Skate and figure skating programs, or visit www.glacierskateacademy.org.

Bill naming peak for late conservationist awaits President's signature

A move to name a 9,765-foot peak in honor of the late Montana conservationist Alex Diekmann is one step closer to becoming reality.

Fire season last year cost state up to $240 million in visitor spending

Fires and smoke from wildfires this past summer cost the state up to 800,000 visitors and resulted in a decrease in visitor spending, according to the Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research at the University of Montana.

Pick up after dogs

The upcoming Winter Trails Day is a good time to remind area dog owners to be responsible members of society. That is, our treasured recreational trails are not your dog’s toilet. The poop problem becomes particularly acute in winter, when dogs and trail users become increasingly confined to narrow (and white hued!) trail corridors. So please remove what cross-country skiers jokingly refer to as the “brown wax,” especially around trailheads. And here’s a shout-out to those responsible folks who not only pick up after their own pooches but, like me, also remove other poops from high value recreation areas.

Forest takes comments on Taylor Hellroaring Project

The Flathead National Forest’s Tally Lake Ranger District seeks public comment on the environmental assessment for the Taylor Hellroaring Project north of Whitefish.

Community events

Free Nordic skiing

Legals January 17, 2018

No. 2408 The City of Whitefish Fire Department (the "City") is accepting proposals from qualified Vendors ("Vendor") to provide ambulance billing, collection, financial reporting, and analytical services. This includes complete management of the billing process from receiving patient care reports to account closure. Minimum proposal specifications are enclosed. It is not the intent of the City to favor one vendor; however, we do, from time to time, rely on vendors' help in writing specifications. We will accept all proposals with exceptions to our specifications clearly noted, and all proposals will be given consideration. Proposals will be opened on Friday, January 26, 2018. Proposals should be submitted in a sealed envelope to the Whitefish City Clerk Michelle Howke, 418 E 2nd Street, PO Box 158, Whitefish, Montana 59937. Each envelope shall be plainly marked: "Proposal - WFD Ambulance Billing - 2018". No proposal shall be valid unless signed. No proposal shall be accepted by FAX or e-mail. The City of Whitefish reserves the right to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive technicalities or informalities, and to accept any proposal deemed to be in the best interest of the City of Whitefish Fire Department. If you have any questions, please e-mail Fire Chief Joe Page at jpage@cityofwhitefish.org. All questions must be submitted in writing prior to 4:30 p.m. MST on January 22, 2018. No addenda will be issued within 48 hours of the proposal opening date and time. Sincerely, Fire Chief Joe Page jpage@cityofwhitefish.org 406-253-3473 January 10, 17, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Winter adventures offer chance to explore wilderness

Join Montana Wilderness Association on an educational outing in northwest Montana this winter.

Known for bold Latin American sound, Las Cafeteras performs in Whitefish

The Whitefish Theatre Company is delighted to present Las Cafeteras, a dynamic ensemble of musicians known for their bold fusion of traditional Latin American folk rhythms with the attitude of urban worldbeat. A family-friendly concert not to miss, Las Cafeteras will perform their captivating show, full of music, dance, and fun, one night only on Friday, Jan. 19 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.

Houston area properties rezoned following annexation

Whitefish City Council last week approved two separate agenda ordinances rezoning properties recently annexed into the city in the Whitefish Lake east lakeshore area.

Six public hearings set for Thursday Planning Board meeting

The Whitefish Planning Board has a full plate set for their Jan. 18 meeting, which will take place at 6 p.m. in the City Council Chambers at City Hall.

No headline

Monday, Jan. 8

Foundation gives final donation for first phase of watershed project

The Whitefish Community Foundation recently awarded a Major Grant of $20,000 for the Trust for Public Lands to be used for the Whitefish Watershed Project.

Young soloists featured in concert

The Glacier Symphony will bring two outstanding young soloists to the stage for a concert for the entire family on Jan. 20-21. The concert will include both classical pieces and popular movie music from Lord of the Rings, Titanic and Star Wars.

James D. Mills

James D. Mills, “Jim,” 90, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 9, at his home in Whitefish.

Norma Kay (Thompson) DeLange

Norma died on Dec. 29, 2017, having been diagnosed with a brain tumor in August.

Wayne Edwin Wade

Wayne Edwin Wade, a 16-year resident of Whitefish, passed away at the Montana State Veterans Home on Jan. 12, 2018 after a long struggle with Parkinson’s disease. His wife, Judy and several dear friends were at his side as he passed peacefully

Scott Raymond Wolfe

Scott Raymond Wolfe, 60, passed away in his sleep at home on Jan. 8, 2018.

Buyers should have acted more quickly

Forget the appraisals. Ignore the Chicago cheerleaders. A building is worth what someone will pay.

Building OK, original owner exceptional

The late Frank Lloyd Wright building meant something to me only because having the FLW architects design it delighted Bud Lockridge. It seemed to me at the time that it was “nothing to write home about” except for the mystique connected to the FLW name. Most vivid in my memory at its opening is that the fireplace did not draw. I moved away from Whitefish so don’t know if that problem was solved.

Fresh Life open to all

I have read with interest in all of our community newspapers and on social media the backlash regarding Fresh Life Church having a building in Whitefish. My husband and I have attended this church regularly for the last nine years. I am not sure what services you attended but have never heard our Pastor Levi Lusko ever speak on the topics of politics or against the LGBTQ community as were mentioned.

Historic building demolished

After standing for nearly 60 years on Central Avenue, the Frank Lloyd Wright Building Wednesday came down.

Changes set to beef up short term rental regs

Whitefish is looking to strengthen its short term rental regulations and at the same time make sure that those operating Airbnb-type rentals are complying with standards.

Three women set for induction into ski Hall of Fame

The Flathead Ski Heritage Center and The Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation this week will honor three women for their combined 120 years in shaping the history of Big Mountain/Whitefish Mountain Resort and Flathead Valley Youth Skiing.

District selects architect for Muldown project

The Whitefish School Board has decided to stick with L’Heureux, Page and Werner to design the new $26.5 million Muldown Elementary.

Children's book focuses on legend of Winter Carnival

Paul Coats has been enchanted by the legend of King Ullr and the Whitefish Winter Carnival since he moved here more than 30 years ago.

School District rakes in more than $100,000 in donations

Generosity appears to be running rampant in Whitefish.

Dogs fight hard for wins in Post Falls

The Whitefish wrestlers held their own at the River City Duals in Post Falls, Idaho, going 3-2 over the weekend.

Nordic skiers place at W. Yellowstone

Nine youths from the Glacier Nordic Ski Team traveled to West Yellowstone on Jan. 13-14 for the Intermountain Junior National Qualifier races, the first race weekend in a series of three weekend events.

Boys swim to first at home

The Whitefish boys swim team defended their home pool with a first place finish in the Dog-Cat Invite on Saturday at The Wave.

Lady Bulldogs fall to Columbia Falls

Despite poor scoring in the first half, it looked like the Lady Dogs might get the best of the rival Wildkats Thursday night.

Speech takes first in Polson

The Whitefish Speech and Debate team grabbed another first place finish at the Polson Invitational on Saturday.

Second half nips Dogs in C. Falls

Offensive woes in the second half made things tough for the Bulldogs Thursday night, as they fell to rival Columbia Falls 57-37.

Little Guy Wrestling signups this month

Whitefish Wrestling Club will be having signups for the 2018 Montana Little Guy season on Friday, Jan. 26, in the Whitefish High School Gym/Event Center from 3:30-5:30 p.m.

Voisin headed to South Korea

Four years after an injury cut Maggie Voisin’s Olympic plans short, she’s back.

Whitefish woman dies in crash on Montana 40

A Whitefish woman was killed in a crash on Montana 40 at Dillon Road Thursday afternoon when her vehicle spun out of control and collided with a dump truck on icy roads.

PHOTOS: Winter Carnival King and Queen coronation

Yetis, penguins and Viking divas all made appearances Sunday for the Whitefish Winter Carnival coronation ceremony Saturday at the O’Shaughnessy Center.

Carnival 2018: Johannsen named King, Johnson named Queen

Two longtime Whitefish community supporters and volunteers have been named the King and Queen for the 59th annual Whitefish Winter Carnival.

Whitefish 12-year-old dances way to Hollywood

At 12 years old, Cody Bingham’s résumé is already impressive.

Historic building headed for demolition

Demolition is expected to proceed on the Frank Lloyd Wright Building downtown after efforts to preserve the building failed.

Legals January 10, 2018

No. 2408 The City of Whitefish Fire Department (the "City") is accepting proposals from qualified Vendors ("Vendor") to provide ambulance billing, collection, financial reporting, and analytical services. This includes complete management of the billing process from receiving patient care reports to account closure. Minimum proposal specifications are enclosed. It is not the intent of the City to favor one vendor; however, we do, from time to time, rely on vendors' help in writing specifications. We will accept all proposals with exceptions to our specifications clearly noted, and all proposals will be given consideration. Proposals will be opened on Friday, January 26, 2018. Proposals should be submitted in a sealed envelope to the Whitefish City Clerk Michelle Howke, 418 E 2nd Street, PO Box 158, Whitefish, Montana 59937. Each envelope shall be plainly marked: "Proposal - WFD Ambulance Billing - 2018". No proposal shall be valid unless signed. No proposal shall be accepted by FAX or e-mail. The City of Whitefish reserves the right to reject any and/or all proposals, to waive technicalities or informalities, and to accept any proposal deemed to be in the best interest of the City of Whitefish Fire Department. If you have any questions, please e-mail Fire Chief Joe Page at jpage@cityofwhitefish.org. All questions must be submitted in writing prior to 4:30 p.m. MST on January 22, 2018. No addenda will be issued within 48 hours of the proposal opening date and time. Sincerely, Fire Chief Joe Page jpage@cityofwhitefish.org 406-253-3473 January 10, 17, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Plan looks to change future use for 70-acre chunk on 93

A proposal submitted to the city could impact the future development of one of the larger swaths of mostly undeveloped land on the south side of Whitefish.

Whitefish sees dip in impact fee collections

Following a peak for 2016, the city of Whitefish’s total impact fee collections dropped last year.

Unneighborly note left on Iowa Ave. residence

Monday, Jan. 1

Deer Creek expansion

A new proposal to expand the Deer Creek neighborhood off JP Road will go before the Whitefish Planning Board this month.

William 'Ted' McMurdo

William ‘Ted’ McMurdo, 78, passed away on Jan. 7, 2018 at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.

Celebration set for new Nordic trailhead

Whitefish Legacy Partners and Glacier Nordic Club are celebrating the grand opening of the new Big Mountain Trailhead on Saturday, Jan. 13.

Council re-organizes during first meeting

Whitefish City Council handled a few housekeeping items last week during its first meeting of 2018.

Bonsai receives approval for expansion

Whitefish City Council Jan. 2 approved expansion plans for the Bonsai Brewing Project on Wisconsin Avenue.

Ski Heritage Days events, Hall of Fame induction next week

The Flathead Ski Heritage Center and the Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation will honor three women as the 2018 inductees into the Ski Heritage Center Hall of Fame next week as part of the 2018 Hell Roaring Ski Heritage Days and Whitefish Mountain Resort’s 70th anniversary celebration.

City OK's yoga studio for commercial space

Pending negotiations of a lease contract, the eastside commercial space inside the city’s parking structure should be buzzing with a new tenant soon.

Deadline looms in fate of historic Frank Lloyd Wright Building

Time is running out for those who want to preserve the Frank Lloyd Wright Building to find a buyer.

Commission assesses AIS efforts in Upper Columbia Basin

The newly created Upper Columbia Conservation Commission co-hosted a workshop last month in Polson to assess current efforts on the ground and to enhance coordination moving forward on aquatic invasive species prevention in the Upper Columbia Basin.

Lecture next week focuses on learning warning signs for suicide

The Nate Chute Foundation is offering a lecture aimed at getting educators, counselors and others working with children to recognize early warning signs for suicidal tendencies.

Middle school students work with professionals to learn business ropes

Some budding business students at Whitefish Middle School are already seeing their creative endeavors pay off.

FVSEF skiers dominate in Big Mountain races

Over 100 young skiers from throughout Montana, north Idaho and eastern Washington competed at Whitefish Mountain Resort last weekend in the Base Lodge Clinic — Sportsman Ski Haus Northern Division Qualifier. Racers ranging in age from 12 to 15 were entered representing clubs from Anaconda, Bozeman, Butte, Great Falls, Helena, Missoula, Red Lodge, Rapid City, SD, Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho, Spokane and Newport, Washington, and the Flathead Valley. The three-day race series, held on Hellroaring and Ed’s Run on Chair 2, included a night slalom race under the lights on Friday night and Giant Slalom races on Ed’s Run on Saturday and Sunday. Mother Nature provided a difficult test including soft snow conditions, falling snow and extremely poor visibility — in fact Sunday’s competition was reduced to a single run due to deteriorating visibility. Despite the conditions, skiers from the Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation/Whitefish Mountain Resort fared very well on their home hill. The participants competed in both U14 (age 12 and 13) and U16 (age 14 and 15) age divisions. By the conclusion the final awards ceremony Sunday afternoon, FVSEF skiers had claimed an amazing five of six Top Podium spots and 10 of 18 overall podium spots for the four-day event.

Glacier Glide results

Skiers gathered at Whitefish Lake Golf Club Sunday morning for Glacier Nordic Club’s annual Glacier Glide race.

Lady Fusion wins Winter Classic

The Flathead Lady Fusion 14U hockey team went 4-1-0 this weekend and claimed their first Winter Classic championship at the Woodland Park ice rink in Kalispell.

Bulldog wrestlers bring it at Cut Bank Invite

After a long winter break, the Whitefish wrestlers got back on the mat in Cut Bank over the weekend.

Dogs look ahead after tough week

Simply put, it was a rough week for the Dogs.

Lady Dogs force OT against Bravettes

With just seconds to go and down two in Thursday’s matchup with Flathead, Ashton Ramsey stepped to the line with a chance to force overtime.

Boys get fourth, girls sixth in pool at Missoula

Whitefish swimmers got back in the pool last week at the Missoula Invitational.

Fresh Life Church plans to construct mixed-use building on Central

Fresh Life Church plans to build a 10,810-square-foot mixed-use building on Central Avenue in downtown Whitefish that would include a new church and several retail spaces.

Carnival 2018: Raper named Prime, Skinner crowned Duchess

The first royalty of the 59th annual Whitefish Winter Carnival has been announced.

Building could be saved for $1.7M

A reprieve still may be possible for the Frank Lloyd Wright Building downtown after the historic building recently came under threat of demolition.

Historic downtown building could be demolished

The historic Frank Lloyd Wright building in downtown Whitefish once again appears to be headed for demolition.

PHOTOS: New Year's On Ice

The Glacier Skate Academy’s New Year’s On Ice show at the Stumptown Ice Den last weekend included a cast of 30 local skaters including competitive and recreational skaters as well as beginning skaters ranging in age from 4 to 17.

Legals January 3, 2018

No. 2407 WHITEFISH PLANNING BOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The regular meeting of the Whitefish Planning Board will be held on Thursday, January 18, 2018 at 6:00 pm in the Whitefish City Council Chambers at 418 E Second Street. During the meeting, the Board will hold a public hearing on the items listed below. Upon receipt of the recommendation from the Planning Board, the Whitefish City Council will hold a subsequent public hearing for items 1-4 on February 5, 2018, and items 5-8 on Tuesday February 20, 2018. City Council meetings start at 7:10 pm at 418 E Second Street in the Whitefish City Council Chambers on the second floor. 1. A request by the City of Whitefish to amend §11-3-35, Short Term Rental Standards and §11-9-2 Definitions as they relate to updated procedures for short-term rentals. (WZTA 18-01) Compton-Ring 2. A request by Tom DeAngleo with technical assistance by Christine Bleyhl, for a 14-lot residential subdivision. The property is located at 633 Colorado Avenue and can be legally described as Lot 5 in Blk 2 of Whitefish Townsite Company's Five Acre Tracts Subdivision in S25 T31N R22W, P.M.M., Flathead County. (WPP 17-07) Minnich 3. A request by Gordon Tait, with technical assistance by Territorial Landworks, Inc., for a major lakeshore variance to dredge approximately 1.31 acres of the Lazy Bay Channel, located at the north end of Whitefish Lake. The proposed area is located within Whitefish Lake, adjacent to the properties between 647 Delrey Road and 695 Delrey Road. (WLV-17-W37) Minnich 4. A request by the City of Whitefish to adopt the Wisconsin Avenue Corridor Plan (Edgewood to Big Mountain Road) as an addendum to the 2007 Whitefish City-County Growth Policy (WGPA-18-02) Taylor 5. A request by the City of Whitefish to change the zoning on the eastern half of an abandoned road right-of-way adjacent to Maple Ridge Subdivision from County R-4 to WR-2 (Two-family Residential). The properties are located north of Haugen Heights Road and west of Lots 1-8 on Icehouse Road and can be legally described as Tract ID 3122X26-MDG-1 through MDG-8 (West Parts) in S27 T31N R22W, P.M.M., Flathead County. (WZC 17-24) Lindh 6. A request by Fresh Life Church for a Conditional Use Permit to construct a new building with a church and retail spaces. The property is developed with a building that previously housed the Lakestream Fly Shop and is zoned WB-3 (General Business District). The property is located at 334 Central Avenue and can be legally described as Lots 8, 9, and 10, Block 53 Whitefish Original Townsite in S36 T 31N R 22W, P.M.M., Flathead County. (WCUP 17-15) Lindh 7. A request by Whitefish 57 llc for a 70-acre neighborhood plan, an amendment to the 2007 Whitefish Growth Policy, to change the Suburban and Rural land use designations to Urban and High Density land use designations. The properties are located at 6204 & 6208 Highway 93 S and can be legally described at Tracts 3B, 3BB, 3BD, 3BCBA & 7A in S1, T30N, R22W P.M.M., Flathead County. (WGPA 18-01) Compton-Ring 8. A request by Mark Panasiddi for a 53-lot subdivision (166 sublots). The property is located southwest of the JP Road/Riverlakes Parkway intersection and can be legally described as Tract 1 of COS 17810 in S12, T30N, R22W P.M.M., Flathead County. (WPP 17-06) Compton-Ring Documents pertaining to these agenda items are available for review at the Whitefish Planning & Building Department, 418 E Second Street, during regular business hours and on the City's webpage: www.cityofwhitefish.org under Planning Board. Inquiries are welcomed. Interested parties are invited to attend the meeting and make known their views and concerns. Comments in writing may be forwarded to the Whitefish Planning & Building Department at the above address prior to the hearing or via email: dtaylor@cityofwhitefish.org. For questions or further information regarding these proposals, phone 406-863-2410. WHITEFISH PLANNING BOARD Steve Qunell, Chair Jan. 3, 2018 MNAXLP --------------------------------------------

2017 - Year in Review

A look at the top headlines that shaped 2017.

Wisconsin Ave. corridor plan ready for review

The Wisconsin Avenue corridor plan is finally making its way in front of the Whitefish Planning Board.

State Forester of Year Dave Ring balances interests on Stillwater

Dave Ring leads the management of the Stillwater State Forest, the oldest state forest in Montana, but much of his focus is actually on the future of the ecosystem.

Good News of 2017

It’s not unusual for residents here to call Whitefish home for one reason — the people.

WTC holds auditions for 'The Shape of Things'

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions for a Black Curtain theatre production of “The Shape of Things” on Tuesday, Jan. 9 at 6 p.m. the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish. The north door at the back of the O’Shaughnessy Center will open at 5:30 p.m. for those wanting to fill out an audition application early and review the audition selections.

Festivities begin this weekend for 59th annual Winter Carnival

This year’s Whitefish Winter Carnival looks to celebrate a piece of the town’s heritage in skiing the slopes of Big Mountain.

Love Lives Here sets annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration

Love Lives Here in the Flathead is holding its 11th annual Martin Luther King, Jr. celebration at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 13, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

ATP launches theater academy for all ages

In the largest expansion of its programming in 10 years, Alpine Theatre Project is launching the ATP Academy, a theatre school for local students of all ages.

Snowmobilers driving recklessly through downtown neighborhoods

Monday, Dec. 25

Fiscal responsibility means not buying things with other's money

Robert Harris says “tax and spend” equals “fiscal responsibility.” Right. In the same way the responsible thief makes sure to get rid of all the loot.

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Michael ‘Dane’ Shackleford

Michael “Dane” Shackleford, 48, passed away from an accident in Coos Bay, Oregon, on Oct. 21, 2017.

Host of Bulldog athletes earn academic honors

They’re not just great athletes, but they’re solid students in the classroom too — dozens of Whitefish athletes earned Academic All-State honors from the Montana Coaches Association for the fall 2017 quarter.

Local pros honored by Pacific Northwest PGA

A trio of local golf pros were honored by the Pacific Northwest PGA for their contributions in 2017.

FVSEF hosts three days of junior ski racing this weekend

The Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation will be host three days of junior ski racing at Whitefish Mountain Resort this weekend. The event this year includes a night slalom race.

2017 full of highlights for Whitefish athletes

State championships, heartbreaks, coaches coming and going — 2017 had it all for local sports.

Feat x Feet tap ensemble performs winter show

This January the local Feat x Feet tap group will be celebrating 20 years of dancing and music when the Whitefish youth tap ensemble performs its annual winter show titled Rhythm to the Soul.

Snowboarder dies in tree-well accident

A 28-year-old man died in a snowboarding accident Saturday at Whitefish Mountain Resort.