Ellington

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Whitefish residents young and old took to Central Avenue for trick-or-treating on Halloween.

Smith Fields playground installation set after fundraising complete

Come next month youngsters visiting Smith Fields will have new slides, swings and more to enjoy in the new playground area at the sports complex.

Outlook predicts warm winter with less snowfall

The winter of 2018-19 could be warmer with less snowfall than normal, if weather predictions hold true.

City begins search for additional water source

Whitefish is beginning a search for a new source to supply the city with drinking water.

Legals October 31, 2018

No. 2455 NOTICE Whereas, the Board of Pardons and Parole has officially received an application for Executive Clemency concerning GLEN, Robert, convicted of the crime of Domestic abuse, committed in Whitefish, Montana, in the county of Flathead, State of Montana, on the 30th of July 1988 and was ordered to pay $100.00 bond. Therefore, be it ordered that Tuesday, November 27, 2018 at 11:00 am be set apart for the consideration of said Executive Clemency matter; and all persons having an interest therein desiring to be heard either for or against the granting of the Executive Clemency, are hereby notified to contact the Board of Pardons and parole, 1002 Hollenbeck Road, Deer Lodge, Montana 59722, phone (406) 846-1404, to be present at the Board of Pardons & Parole office at 1002 Hollenbeck Road, Deer Lodge. Further, ordered that a copy of this order be printed and Published in the Whitefish Pilot News, in Whitefish, Montana, once each week for a two-week period. Sincerely, BOARD OF PARDONS & PAROLE CATHY LEAVER, ADM. SPECIALIST October 31, November 7, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

Voices of Wilderness celebration Nov. 2

The Bob Marshall Wilderness Foundation is hosting its 12th annual Voices of the Wilderness celebration and fundraiser on Friday, Nov. 2 at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake at 6 p.m.

Community briefs for Oct. 31

Council looks at two rezone requests

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

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Monday, Oct. 15

Bulldogs trounce Polson to earn Class A title

The Bulldog boys soccer team showed off its offensive firepower Saturday to earn the title of state champions.

City reminds drivers of change to parking rules

Whitefish drivers are being reminded that new parking rules have gone into effect in the city.

Board passes requests to City Council

The Whitefish Planning Board held four public hearings on Oct 18.

Stand up to hate by voting

If there were ever a time to make your vote count, it is now. Why? Jon Tester and Kathleen Williams. They can help bridge the gap that divides our country. Our senior Senator, Jon Tester has passed 20 bills this year, he works for all Montanans and knows how to bring together all sides of an issue to get results. In the Congressional race, Kathleen Williams is running against journalist body slammer Greg Gianforte. Gianforte has not held any public forums and keeps himself away from the public while continuing to be easily annoyed by the press. Williams has proven herself as a hard-working campaigner, listening to Montanans and has worked diligently in the Montana Legislature. Sure, we may disagree on some things, but when it comes to public lands, Montanan’s feel that they are our right. Your vote for Democrats will assure that these precious lands remain in public hands.

Doctors say tax protects healthcare

The doctors of Glacier Medical Associates strongly support the passage of ballot Initiative-185 for a healthy Montana. Please vote yes on I-185 to protect the health and healthcare of our kids and our state. GMA loves being an important fixture in improving the health of the community and patients that we serve. Daily we are faced with caring for patients and their families suffering from tobacco related disease such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Tobacco-related diseases are the No. 1 preventable causes of premature death in our state.

Protect water vote for I-186

I am writing to advocate for the passage of I-186, the initiative that would permit hard rock mining only if perpetual treatment of mining acid and contaminated water is not required. The initiative applies to future permit requests only. It would make mining companies accountable and disrupt the cycles of boom, bust, and run that constitute the history of mining in Montana. The current problems in the Little Rockies and Butte demonstrate this history.

Vote for those who show unity

The vast majority of Americans lament the polarization and highly divisive rhetoric that has dominated our political life in the last decade. This has resulted in the failure to enact legislation to direct the multiple problems facing the country. Thus, it is imperative that on Nov. 6, voters choose candidates who do not employ mud-slinging and name-calling to advance their election.

Tobacco tax best way to quit

Montana voters have an opportunity to help improve the health and quality of life of hundreds of thousands of Montanans with a YES vote on ballot Initiative 185. I-185 puts a $2 tax on tobacco and taxes other tobacco products. Phillip Morris, the largest tobacco company in America has spent $12 million to fight this initiative because they don’t want to see their profits fall.

Former Senator endorses candidates

Voting is our right and our obligation if we are to maintain our freedom. TV ads have very little accurate information and are dominated by character assassination and lies. The website:

Legislator says use caution with tax

I-185 is being touted as a health measure. Raising the price of a pack of cigarettes by $2 will encourage more people to quit smoking and pay for Medicaid expansion they say.

Teen prodigy brings blend of roots music to stage

The Whitefish Theatre Company is thrilled to present Emi Sunshine, a critically-acclaimed teen prodigy from East Tennessee who is capturing the nation’s attention and enchanting hearts-a-many with her musical wizardry.

Steven Thomas Fawcett

Steven Thomas Fawcett passed away Oct. 5, peacefully, at age 74 with his loving family beside him. He joins the rest of his kin, brothers David and Matthew, his mom Gloria, and father Ray. He was born on March 27, 1944 in Covina, California.

Glacier Twins hold meeting, plan annual garland

The Glacier Twins are holding its annual general meeting and next month will begin hanging garland in town.

FVSEF shows Warren Miller film

Powder hounds eagerly anticipating the winter season can get ready by watching Warren Miller Entertainment’s 69th full-length feature film “Face of Winter” during two showings this weekend in Whitefish.

Paraeducator honored for work with students

When Velma Luke met Abi Kurtz five years ago, she didn’t know what she was in for.

Experts to speak at annual avalanche workshop here Saturday

A panel is experts will provide education on safe winter backcountry travel during this year’s Northern Rockies Snow and Avalanche Workshop in Whitefish on Saturday, Nov. 3.

Lady Dogs earn second at tourney ahead of divisional

The Lady Dogs came up short against Libby in the Northwest A district tournament on Saturday, but it was still enough to keep their season alive for the divisional tournament this week.

Soccer players earn end of season awards

A slew of Bulldog soccer players received All Conference awards for their play this season.

Season ending at golf course

Season Ends at WLGC

WMS cross country runners wrap up season

The Whitefish Middle School cross country team finished their season recently with a final race at Rebecca Farms.

Bulldogs fall short in playoff game

The Bulldogs fought hard but fell to Dillon 27-7 in the first round of Class A football playoffs on Friday night.

PHOTOS: Bulldogs state champs

Whitefish defeated Polson in the Class A state title match at Smith Fields Saturday in a 6-2 win.

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The Bulldogs are state champions.

Couple files lawsuit against man accused of vehicular assault

A Georgia couple who were severely injured after being struck by a vehicle in Whitefish in July have filed suit against the man who is accused of negligent vehicle assault in the incident.

Election office pays postage on absentee ballots when necessary

As envelopes bearing absentee ballots for the Nov. 6 election pour in to the election office, some don’t bear adequate postage. Some bear no postage at all.

Community Calendar Oct. 24

Symphony presents silent movie ahead of Halloween

What would Halloween be without eerie music?

Couple handcrafts wooden spoons that are both beautiful and useful

Great Bear Woodworks focuses on functional art.

Legals October 24, 2018

No. 2454 Whitefish Trail Annual Review Tuesday, October 30, 2018 6:00 pm -7:00 pm City Hall Council Chambers 418 E. 2nd Street Whitefish, MT The City of Whitefish, Whitefish Legacy Partners, and the Whitefish Trail Operations Committee invite you to join us for the Whitefish Trail Annual Review Public Meeting. Public comment is requested for the Whitefish Trail in 2018 including Lion Mountain, Skyles, Beaver Lakes, Woods Lake, Dollar Lake, Swift Creek, Lupfer, Haskill and Spencer Mountain. If you are not able to attend, please send written comments to: City of Whitefish Parks and Recreation Department Attn: Community Services Coordinator PO Box 158 Whitefish, MT 59937 Email: cbelski@cityofwhitefish.org October 24, 2018 MNAXLP _________________________.

Annual campaign awards more than $2.4 million to nonprofit organizations

There were many beaming smiles and shouts of cheer as representatives from 50 nonprofits were called to the stage Thursday evening to collect donations made to their groups as part the annual Great Fish Community Challenge.

Conservation efforts focus of field trip during conference

Whitefish’s watershed conservation strategies were on full display during a recent gathering of water experts from around the state.

Early design options outlined for housing on snow lot

Housing styles that as closely as possible mimic the surrounding neighborhood seems to be the preference for a proposed housing project for the city’s snow lot.

City updates sidewalk snow removal policy

The city of Whitefish has updated its ordinance that deals with private removal of snow and ice on sidewalks and shared use paths.

Schools partner with state on bus safety campaign

Whitefish Schools is taking the lead on a statewide initiative to alert drivers about the importance of school bus safety.

Dyson wants to legalize marijuana

Marijuana is a gateway drug. A gateway to spending tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to find, prosecute, and imprison Montanans. A gateway to losing tens of millions in revenue to neighboring states (and all of Canada). Moreover, we’re probably not preventing anyone from consuming the drug. A thriving black market ensures easy assess and that billions in revenue goes into the wrong pockets.

Twins say thanks

The Glacier Twins Baseball organization would again like to thank the hundreds of volunteers who helped make the first of the Twins Concert Series on Aug. 3 a huge success. Also a sincere thank you to the more than 2,500 fans in attendance that enjoyed the evening entertainment by our local John Dunnigan and our headliner, the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. We hope to book another top entertainment act for next summer in the coming months.

Fern best candidate

Whitefish could not ask for a better person to represent our community than Dave Fern. He is one of the hardest working individuals you will ever meet. You can speak to Dave on any number of topics and it’s clear he has done his homework. He responds with thoughtful and nuanced insights that explain the critical issues facing our state, not empty and divisive rhetoric. He understands the imperfections and limitations of government as well as the value of its mechanisms to improve our quality of life. These traits enable Dave to deliver good ideas, great policy and outstanding solutions.

'Kettlehouse' a fine production

My wife and I attended the Whitefish Theatre Company performance of the developmental stage production written by Robert Caisley called “Kettlehouse.” It was a most entertaining comedy, offering fine writing, excellent performances and, as alway, well thought out sets, costumes, lighting and sound. Whitefish is very fortunate to have the opportunity to enjoy such fine stage work and a play that is new and being produced for the first time ever. If you have not attended, we encourage folks to see the second weekend of production Oct. 25. 26 and 27. Congratulations to the many folks who created such a fine production.

One bear goes for stroll, while another breaks into garage

Monday, Oct. 8

Marylyn Dolan Joseph

Marylyn Dolan Joseph, 87, of Whitefish, Montana, formerly of Wayzata, Minnesota, and Denver, Colorado, died Oct. 16, 2018. Marylyn was born in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she graduated from the Convent of the Visitation and St. Catherine University. As a young woman, Marylyn lived and worked in Sun Valley, Aspen, and Glacier Park. Later she worked in social service in New York, Washington, D.C., and Denver.

Jack Marcial

Jack Marcial, 74, of Whitefish, passed away Oct. 18, 2018 at KRMC.

Sheri P. Smith Brown Pierce

Sheri P. Smith Brown Pierce, age 66, passed away Thursday, Oct. 18, 2018 at Genises Care Center in Whitefish. Sheri was born Aug. 2, 1952 in Whitefish to Harry and Ethel Smith. Sheri was the seventh of ten children. She graduated high school in Columbia Falls. In 1970 she married Dennis Brown they lived in Whitefish where they raised three children Randy, Rhonda, and Ivy. Sheri and Dennis later divorced.

Kelsey Whitby

Kelsey Whitby, Local Smile, Soccer Coach, and Nanny, dies at 31.

Council approves three-lot subdivision off Colorado Ave.

A half dozen neighbors of a small subdivision planned on 1.7 acres off Colorado Avenue expressed concerns last week to City Council about the impact it could have on them.

New coworking business offers a desk for anyone

As a remote business owner, Drew Fortner realized he could do his job from anywhere with a solid internet connection.

Annual ski swap goes digital ahead of sale

The Big Mountain Ski Club will hold its annual ski sale and swap in Whitefish at The Wave on Saturday, Nov. 3.

Ladies best Browning on volleyball court

The Lady Dogs put the finishing touches on their regular season with a quick sweep of Browning last week.

Lady Dogs come up short in semifinal game

The Lady Dogs gave it their all, but couldn’t contain Billings Central’s scoring in the Class A semifinal match.

After falling to Libby, Dogs head to Dillon for playoff game

Despite holding a three-point lead through three quarters, the Bulldogs fell in their final game of the regular season to the Loggers, 28-24, Friday.

Bulldogs return to state title match

For the second year in a row, the Bulldogs will play for the Class A state title.

Lady Bulldog harriers finish second overall at state meet

The Lady Dogs concluded their season with a silver medal at the Class A State Cross Country Meet on Saturday at the University of Montana Golf Course.

Bulldog soccer

The Whitefish Bulldogs beat the Frenchtown Bronc Saturday 1-0 at Smith Fields in the playoff semifinal at Smith Fields.

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A six-month race against the elements and the clock combined local Montana talent, style and materials to create the 2019 HGTV Dream Home atop Big Mountain in Whitefish.

Several events planned for Montana cooperative week

Cooperative leaders from across Flathead and Lincoln counties have teamed up with several partners to host the Montana Cooperative Impact Week set for Oct. 23-25.

Boosters float idea of school sports complex

Supporters of Bulldog athletics are exploring the possibility of constructing a new, privately-funded sports complex.

Officials participate in crisis training led by international experts

On a hot July day a spark ignites spreading into a wildfire threatening the city. Hundreds of protesters gather downtown, but the event morphs into a violent riot. How will officials respond to these potential incidents and others that could occur, and how will they ensure the safety and wellbeing of residents during and following such a crisis?

Deadline this month for VFW scholarship competitions

The Veterans of Foreign Wars offers a scholarship program through two competitions, and an award for teachers.

Great Fish awards presented Thursday

The Whitefish Community Foundation is holding its annual awards presentation for the Great Fish Community Challenge on Thursday, Oct. 18.

Community briefs for Oct. 17

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Scratching noises turn out to be furnace

Monday, Oct. 1

Scott, Feinberg marry

Ryan Scott and Lilly Feinberg were wed on Aug. 4, 2018 in Newport, Rhone Island.

Doris Alene Cavanaugh

Doris Alene Cavanaugh, 86, of Whitefish, passed away Oct. 15, 2018 at the Springs at Whitefish.

Barbara J Golie

Barbara J Golie, 76, passed away peacefully on Oct. 14, 2018, surrounded by her children and grandchildren in Spokane.

Business rezone, increased units, residential change top planning board

The Whitefish Planning Board has four public hearings scheduled for its Thursday, Oct. 18 meeting.

Powering innovation

As CEO of Elebase, Inc., Jen Frandsen is looking ahead to the new ways her product can power innovation.

Whitefish School District releases fall adult education offerings

Whitefish Schools will offer 10 different courses in the new Adult Education Program beginning this fall.

Fern supports healthy community

Dave Fern has represented House District 5 in the Montana State Legislature and has worked on property tax reform. Many long time residents of our valley face the prospect of being forced to leave their property because of the combination of high taxes and fixed incomes. He is committed to finding solutions for his constituents.

Business case for investing in outdoor recreation

I love the “aaaaahh” moment — when you open the car door at the trailhead, breathe the air, hear the rustle of leaves, and step into the dappled sunlight. I’m kind of addicted. Author Florence Williams calls it a getting a “Nature Fix.”

Establish regulations to allow for enjoyment of fireworks

The recent uproar over fireworks set off in celebration of a wedding has become an issue that should be addressed and resolved. To ban fireworks completely is to be swayed by the vocal minority that are upset by any display or offence to their personal space and would have it outlawed. There are over 7,000 people in Whitefish and the complaints come from less than a dozen.

End shackling of pregnant women

Jane Doe gave birth to her baby in a Montana hospital with her left leg shackled to her hospital bed. Even after a nurse questioned Jane’s guard about the necessity of shackling — given that Jane was immobilized with an epidural — she remained shackled through labor and recovery.

Are development standards no longer needed?

After reading the Oct. article concerning possible mandatory inclusionary zoning, I’m left questioning the legitimacy of our development standards.

Healthcare on the ballot – hospital shows support for I-185

This fall, ballot initiative I-185 proposes a tobacco tax that will fully fund Montana’s Medicaid expansion program. To physicians, nurses, care coordinators, nursing home aids, and your local hospital, this means that the healthcare of 100,000 people in Montana and 18,000 patients in the Flathead Valley area is on the ballot. Initiative 185 is a public health initiative, and as healthcare workers, we are asking for your support.

Young actors bring familiar story 'Lion King' to stage

More than 170 local students from across the Flathead Valley will be on stage this weekend for the “The Lion King Jr” presented by ATP Kids, Alpine Theatre Project’s theatre education program.

Family dynamics central theme of new play

The Whitefish Theatre Company is thrilled to present the premiere of “Kettlehouse” as the first mainstage theatre production of its 40th anniversary season.

Bullock speaks at rally supporting tobacco tax

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock paid a visit Monday afternoon to Whitefish to join local health care providers and one educator in showing support for I-185, which looks to raise the state’s tobacco tax while expanding Medicaid.

Bulldogs blank Livingston in quarterfinals match

After a defensive battle to start, the Bulldogs cruised to a 4-0 quarterfinal victory over Livingston-Park on Saturday.

South course open through October

New board members

Wildcats claw Bulldogs at home

One minute into Friday’s rivalry battle with Columbia Falls, and it looked like it could be the Bulldogs’ night.

Lady Dogs fall short against C-Falls

The Lady Dogs fought hard against the Wildkats but fell in five sets last Thursday.

Lady Dogs best Hamilton in OT thriller

It took an extra 20 minutes, but the Lady Dogs got the win over Hamilton in the Class A quarterfinal match on Saturday.

XC girls win Northwest A conference

The Lady Dogs cross country team ran their way to a third straight Northwest A conference championship Saturday in Columbia Falls.

Ammon Bundy speaks in Whitefish, groups hold rally in response

Public land advocates and a group supporting its transfer to private ownership spoke their minds at two separate events Saturday in Whitefish.

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The Bulldogs couldn’t handle Columbia Falls’ rushing attack Friday night, falling 40-7 in the rivalry matchup.

Resort sets record for season pass sales

Skiers in Whitefish are gearing up for winter in record numbers.

Legals October 10, 2018

No. 2453 Announcement The City of Whitefish, Montana (city) is seeking Proposals from qualified contractors for a variety of snow and ice removal activities for the 2018-2019 snow season. Contractors may elect to submit pricing on any or all of the five scopes described in this RFP. Proposals are due by Friday, October 19, 2018. October 10, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________

WTC holds auditions for two plays

The Whitefish Theatre Co. is holding auditions in October for two theatre productions.

Dyson wants to focus on criminal justice reform

Cindy Dyson is making her first foray into seeking political office.

Fern plans to take on affordable housing issues

Incumbent Dave Fern is hoping to return to the Montana Legislature for a second term.

Whitefish students use Muldown project as outdoor classroom

The construction of a new Muldown Elementary School building is serving as a teaching moment for students both young and old.

Conservation project complete adding acreage to Stillwater

The Whitefish Lake Watershed Project that adds a total of 13,400 acres to the Stillwater State Forest and protects that land through multi-phase conservation easements has been completed.

Caller concerned about helicopter fly-over

Monday, Sept. 24

Reject agendas spreading message of fear, hostility

Whitefish, Montana is our home. We raise our kids here, we’re regulars at our favorite local cafes and watering holes downtown, and we know the surrounding public lands like the back of our hand. We swap stories from our latest outings: “The bears are already out in Haskill Basin!” we’ll say each spring, and around this time of year it changes to, “when do you think it will snow on Logan Pass?”

I-186 means a vote for clean water in Montana

Currently, Montana tax payers are picking up the bill to cleanup abandoned mine sites leaking lead, arsenic, and mercury into our rivers and drinking water. We pay tens-of-millions every year to deal with the damage left by foreign and out-of-state companies and we currently have no law that allows the state to say “no” to new mines that would continue polluting and wasting taxpayer dollars.

Silencing of viewpoints not proper response

Bob Brown has honorably served the state of Montana for more than three decades as an elected public official and as a private citizen, and has earned the respect of every fair-minded Montanan. It is altogether fitting and proper for Mr. Brown and all the others involved to rally in Depot Park for human rights and public lands, and I believe his statement that the lawless behavior and radical, fringe outlook of Ammon Bundy and his supporters is one not shared by most Montanans, regardless of political persuasions, cannot be contradicted by any reasonable person.

Ideology of divesting public lands not right fit for Whitefish

What kind of Flathead Valley do we want to call home? In the not so distant past, we became an unwilling host to ideologies steeped in violent threats and the dogma of “The National Policy Institute.” Our community observed, scrutinized and emphatically rejected the abject convictions of Andrew Anglin and Richard Spencer. Action overcame indifference, and resolve surmounted the threats. “We the people” resoundingly let them know that neither their teachings nor their postures were welcome in Montana or the Flathead Valley.

Delbert James Gilchrist

On Saturday, Oct. 6, 2018, Delbert James Gilchrist, loving husband and father of four children, passed away at the age of 87.

Ordean James Helland

Ordean James Helland, 90, formerly of Whitefish, died Sept. 12, 2018, in Olalla, Washington.

Neal Robert Wilke

Neal Wilke, 85, left this earth and into the arms of Jesus his Savior on Sept. 30, 2018. He passed away at Lakeview Care Center in Bigfork.

New art studio creates stories from paint and pages

Turning a blank canvas into art is never an easy process.

Skate director continues family tradition

When Sean Wirtz is out on the ice rink working with young ice skaters, he seems to be just following his family tradition.

Events focus on dealing with climate challenges

The nonprofit Climate Smart Glacier Country is holding a series of events to explore local solutions to climate challenges.

No headline

Whitefish City Council meets Oct. 15 at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall at 418 E. Second St. The following agenda items will be discussed, subject to change:

World's Hardest tourney this weekend

Annual Meeting Saturday, Oct. 13

Cycling studio hosts fundraiser

SOBBACYCLE, is holding a #pedalforapurpose event on Oct. 17 at 5:30 p.m. The studio will be hosting our latest installment of our Charity Rides.

Lady Dogs prepare for C-Falls rematch

The Lady Dogs notched a pair of wins last week, but as head coach Addy Connelly noted, it wasn’t pretty.

Harriers win mixed relays

The Bulldogs cross country team had success mixing things up at the Eureka Mixed-Up Relays on Thursday.

Lady Dogs face off with Polson in playoffs

It’s do or die for the Lady Bulldogs.

Dogs spoil Polson homecoming with shutout

Whitefish notched its fifth straight win in a 38-0 beatdown of the Polson Pirates on Friday.

Bulldogs claim Northwest A title

With a 3-1 lead in the 76th minute, it looked as if the Bulldogs would cap off their perfect regular season with another win over Polson.

Whitefish Trail Legacy Race

Nearly 250 runners took to the Whitefish Trail Sunday morning for the eighth annual Legacy Race.

Path of the Puma

Even in his earliest days, the big cats of the Americas have captivated Jim Williams.

Friends raise money for beloved soccer coach

Youth soccer coach Kelsey Whitby has been battling brain cancer for the past six years.

Legals October 3, 2018

No. 2451 WHITEFISH PLANNING BOARD NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING The regular meeting of the Whitefish Planning Board will be held on Thursday, October 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 1-3 on November 5, 2018 and item 4 on November 19, 2018. City Council meetings start at 7:10 pm at 418 E Second Street in the Whitefish City Council Chambers on the second floor. A request by James Atkinson on behalf of Tom Carson to rezone property from WB-1 (Limited Commercial District) to WR-4 (High Density Multi-Family Residential District). The property is currently developed as commercial and residential, including a storage and auto repair facility. The property is located at 519/523/525 Skyles Place and can be legally described as Parts of Lot 9, Block 9, Whitefish Townsite Company 5 Acre Tracts First Addition in Section 25, Townsite 31 North Range 22 West P.M.M., Flathead County. (WZC 18-08) Taylor A request by Amy Ericksen for a conditional rezone from WI (Industrial and Warehousing) to WI/WB-2/SC (Industrial and Warehousing/Secondary Business with a Statement of Conditions) in order to allow a furniture repair and sales and other uses similar to the conditionally zoned property directly to the south. The property currently has a six-unit commercial condo building and is located at 1820 Baker Avenue. It can be legally described as Units 1-6, Commerce Street Condominiums, on Tracts 6BDC and 6BE, Section 01, Township 31N, Range 22W, P.M.M., Flathead County. (WZC 18-09) Taylor A request by Ross Thiessen for a Conditional Use Permit to construct an accessory apartment in a residential zone. The property is located at 718 W. 3rd Street and can be legally described at Tract 5-3 in Section 35, Township 31 North, Range 22 West P.M.M., Flathead County. (WCUP 18-09) Minnich A request by Michael Morton of Mkay to amend the 2016 approval PUD for Lot 16 of Riverview Meadows in order to construct one 24-plex apartment - an increase of 6 units. The property is currently undeveloped and is zoned WR-1 & WB-2 with a Planned Unit Development overlay. The property is located at 306 Akers Lane and can be legally described as Lot 16, Riverview Meadows in S1, T30N, R22W P.M.M., Flathead County. (WPUD 18-05) 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. The full application packets along with public comments and staff report will be available on the City's webpage: www.cityofwhitefish.org under Planning Board six days prior to the Planning Board public hearing date noted above. 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 October 3, 2018 MNAXLP _________________________

Community briefs for Oct. 3

Bird viewing area opens in West Valley

A bird and wildlife viewing area is opening to the public on nearly conserved property in the West Valley.

Dirt art unwelcome on car; bears spotted around town

Monday, Sept. 17

FVCC Festival of Flavors opens

The 11th Annual Fall Festival of Flavors opens Oct. 5 at Flathead Valley Community College to support scholarships and student success.

Gallery Nights Oct. 4

The Whitefish art community is hosting the remaining evening of featured artist exhibitions for the season on the first Thursday of the month.

City looks at program to require affordable units in new development

A draft program aimed at providing more affordable workforce housing in Whitefish could implement mandatory inclusionary zoning for the city.

City OKs increase to sewer, water rates

Whitefish’s sewer and water rates are set to increase this fall.

Blackfeet dancers bring lessons, friendship to Olney-Bissell School

A group joined hands forming a large circle filling the Olney-Bissell School gymnasium Thursday morning. When the drums began playing, they dipped their bodies up and down together while staying linked together in a friendship dance.

Officials ride school bus to look at safety issues

The Whitefish School Board trustees got to see things from the student’s point of view last week — from the seat of a school bus.

Five skaters head to regional championships

Glacier Skate Academy of Whitefish is sending five skaters to the Pacific Northwest Regional Figure Skating Championships. They are Shatara Boye, Sophia Burrough, Willem Gray, Maggie Mercer and Muriel Mercer.

Golf season continues

WLGC Annual Meeting

Neal R Wilke

Neal R Wilke, 85, passed away on Sept. 30, 2018 at the Lake View Care Center.

Class of 1963 shows gratitude

The Whitefish High School class of 1963 recently held a reunion to celebrate 55 years since graduation. Forty classmates and guests registered for the events held in Whitefish.

FREEFLOW group says thanks

The Whitefish High School FREEFLOW Club recently began a long-term project to study water quality and dispersed campsite changes along the North Fork of the Flathead River. Prior to time spent on the river, students reviewed past United States Geological Survey water quality studies and researched land use changes in the North Fork Valley. Based on initial research, students developed a study plan with the following goals: monitor and assess dispersed river-use campsites; examine chemical, physical and biological water quality parameters; increase student opportunities to work with scientists and natural resource managements professionals; integrate with Forest Service and Park Service Wild and Scenic River managers and their long-term monitoring goals; and make data publicly accessible through a student created online ESRI Story Map.

What about Whitefish?

Modern pirates do what Blackbeard and the boys did 200 years ago; they take what they want without consideration for victims or the environment.

Vote to renew 6-mill levy to support higher education

Montanans will have a direct say in what we pay when the 6-mill university levy comes before us again this election year as LR -128 on the November election ballot.

Bruce Walter Frederick

Bruce Walter Frederick, 70, formerly of Worland, passed away Monday, Sept. 17, 2018 at Fort Meade VA Hospice.

Conference focuses on water issues

Reducing the effects of drought on rural livelihoods, protecting Montana’s waterways from invasive mussels and helping neighbors recover from wildfires — these are just a few of the many ways that locally driven watershed groups sustain communities across Montana every day.

Stack Financial named one of top advisors

Stack Financial Management of Whitefish has just been named to Barron’s 2018 list of the “Top 100 Independent Financial Advisors” in the United States. Stack Financial Management is the only firm to be recognized from the region including Montana, Oregon, Idaho, Nevada, Utah, Wyoming, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Lady Dogs beat Hamilton after setbacks

Whitefish had a couple of setbacks against Columbia Falls and Corvallis last week, but finished on a high note with a win over Hamilton.

Lady Dogs fall to Wildkats, bounce back in Libby

The Lady Dogs couldn’t find the net against the rival Wildkats during a 3-0 loss at home last week.

Bulldogs win streak continues

The Bulldogs are still perfect on the pitch, even after a 1-0 nail-biter against Columbia Falls last Thursday.

Dogs dominate on the ground against Ronan

Another week, another Bulldogs win, this time in a 43-7 beatdown on Ronan last Friday.

Ladies get silver at state

The Whitefish golf team capped off an impressive year with strong finishes at the Class A State Tournament in Hamilton.

Whitefish harriers fare well at home invite

The Bulldogs defended its home turf with solid performances at the Whitefish Invite.

Education Foundation holds parent education event

The Whitefish Education Foundation’s Family Involvement Team will host its first Parent Education Series of the year on Wednesday, Oct. 3 at 6:30 p.m. at the Performing Arts Center.

Ammon Bundy set to speak here; groups plan counter rally

A group that says it’s opposed to government regulation will host Ammon Bundy, leader of an armed occupation of an Oregon wildlife refuge, as part a gathering in Whitefish later this month. In response, a number of organizations opposed to the conference are planning to hold their own event.

Events focus on solutions dealing with climate challenges

The nonprofit Climate Smart Glacier Country is holding a series of events to explore local solutions to climate challenges.

Kalispell Regional Healthcare settles whistleblower suit for $24 million

Kalispell Regional Healthcare has reached a settlement with the federal government for $24 million, according to a Department of Justice announcement Friday and an email sent to Kalispell Regional staff from President and CEO Pam Robertson. Kalispell Regional will pay $21.1 million and the Flathead Physician Group, physician investors in The HealthCenter, will pay $2.8 million. The hospital had set aside $21.5 million in advance of a settlement, which, according to the Department of Justice, is the largest False Claims Act recovery in Montana.