Friday, September 28
No headline
A group that includes Whitefish residents, tribal representatives and public land advocates is denouncing a conference set to be held here in October that plans to host a man who led an armed standoff at an Oregon wildlife refuge in 2016.
Thursday, September 27
New parking rules begin Oct. 1
New parking rules go into effect in Whitefish beginning Oct. 1.
Wednesday, September 26
Residents complaining about noise, ask city to ban private fireworks
Neighbors in Monk’s Bay on Whitefish Lake were awoken on a recent Saturday night by the boom of fireworks.
Legals September 26, 2018
No. 2450 PRESCRIBED BURNING ANNOUNCEMENT Montana's Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Stillwater Unit, is proposing prescribed burning from September 20th through November 30. The types of burns will include broadcast and pile burning. Burning will be conducted throughout the entire unit and will be dependent on weather and air quality conditions. Questions or concerns can be directed to Stillwater State Forest, P.O. Box 164, Olney, MT 59927, (406) 881-2371 or to DCarr@mt.gov. September 26, October 3, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________
Tuesday, September 25
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A weekly look at past Whitefish Pilot articles, compiled by Daniel McKay.
Community briefs for Sept. 26
City Council considers increase to sewer, water rates
Whitefish water and sewer users could see an increase in their bills if a proposed increase is approved.
Powerful blues performer on stage Friday night
Nova Scotia-based singer-songwriter Matt Andersen with his giant soul-filled voice and powerful blues performance will perform one night only on Friday, Sept. 28 at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.
Sleep lost over tampered pillow
Monday, Sept. 10
Last piece of conservation eaasement approved
The state Land Board has approved the final phase of the 13,400-acre Whitefish Lake Watershed Project northwest of Whitefish Lake.
Zone change approved for planned housing project
Whitefish City Council last week approved a zone change related to a proposed affordable housing project on Edgewood Place.
Tobacco tax will decrease youth smoking
Each year in Montana, 400 children become addicted to tobacco. Tobacco companies use new products like e-cigarettes and vaping to target children, and hook the next generation of kids on nicotine. Last year alone, Big Tobacco spent $30 million in Montana to market to our kids.
LWCF programs vital to health, vitality of many towns
Earlier this summer the community of Whitefish — along with our partners the Trust for Public Land, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, U.S. Forest Service, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Whitefish Legacy Partners, and F.H. Stoltze Land and Lumber Company — celebrated the closing of the Haskill Basin Conservation Easement project. We met to celebrate a new trailhead that opens the door to recreational opportunities on over 3,000 acres of working forest lands surrounding Whitefish.
Tobacco tax discourages smoking, also provides necessary funds
Later in the 2017 legislative session a bill came before the House Taxation Committee (to which I served on), to raise or create taxes on nicotine delivery systems, inclusive of cigarettes, chew, and vaping products. The bill was sponsored by Sen. Mary Caferro of Helena. On the morning of the hearing I suggested to Sen. Caferro, that it was unlikely the bill would pass out of the committee and I offered to amend the bill by lowering the increase on the proposed tax structure. The Senator didn’t take me up on the request citing the need to maintain the increase to see a meaningful reduction in smoking. The Senator was not confident in the legislative outcome but assured me it would appear as a ballot initiative if the House tax turned it down. My Republican colleagues were having nothing to do with the bill and it is unlikely a lesser increase would have changed minds.
Headmaster says focus on growing academy from within
As headmaster of the Whitefish Christian Academy, Hal Brunson says his role is primarily that of a problem-solver.
Off-season watercraft rules begin Oct. 1
Officials are reminding folks that off-season rules for watercraft using Whitefish Lake begin Oct. 1.
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Whitefish City Council, on Sept. 17:
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Whitefish community members gathered downtown to celebrate homecoming during Friday’s parade.
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The Whitefish High School homecoming royalty was celebrated during halftime of Friday’s football game against Browning. Lee Walburn and Emily Gunlickson were named the 2018 king and queen.
Lady Dog runners grab first in T-Falls
The Lady Dogs cross country team took another first-place finish at the Thompson Falls Invitational last week.
Ronan no problem for Lady Dogs
The Ronan Maidens were no problem for the Lady Dogs during homecoming week.
Golfers enjoy fall weather at WLGC
Golf course going strong
Bulldogs drop Libby, Polson extending streak to eight
The Bulldogs extended their win streak to eight with homecoming-week wins over Libby and Polson.
Lady Dogs find net in conference matches to earn wins
Scoring has been a focus for the Lady Dogs in recent weeks, which showed during an 8-2 blowout of Polson on Saturday.
Whitefish golfers head to state tourney in Hamilton
The Whitefish girls golfers are divisional champions after a strong showing at the Western A Tournament in Libby last week.
Dogs bash Browning in homecoming win
No late game heroics were needed on Friday, as the Bulldogs celebrated homecoming with a dominant 37-6 win over the Browning Indians.
Monday, September 24
Timothy P. Flynn
Timothy P. Flynn, 68, died at his home in Whitefish on Sept. 17, 2018.
No headline
To no local powder-hound’s surprise, Whitefish Mountain Resort has been named the top resort in the West for “overall satisfaction” by SKI Magazine.
Benny Ray Benson
Benny Ray Benson was born Dec. 3, 1948 to Robert and Donna Benson in Livingston, Montana. On Sept. 20, 2018 Benny Benson lost his courageous battle with cancer.
Friday, September 21
No headline
The Bulldogs celebrated homecoming with a 37-6 win over the Browning Indians.
Thursday, September 20
FWP seeks information in poaching cases near Whitefish
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking information about a deer and elk that were illegally killed west of Whitefish.
Hop Queen says Oktoberfest brings community together
Hop Queen Rikki Wallawine says the Great Northwest Oktoberfest is a chance to come together for some fun.
Fun, food and entertainment at annual celebration
Another Whitefish summer is finally in the books. The weather’s getting cooler, the leaves are turning color and the insanity of summer has quieted down a bit. But not too much because it’s Oktoberfest time in Whitefish!
The Wich Haus
The idea behind the Wich Haus is to keep things simple.
Wednesday, September 19
Memoir more than story of woman and search dog
Susan Purvis’ debut memoir centers around a woman and her search dog as they train and deploy to search and rescue missions in the mountains of Colorado, but it’s also a story about self-discovery.
Long ride of life
For the last 14 years, Bernice Ende has lived the nomad’s life, traveling thousands of miles across the United States on horseback for trips that last years.
Parents irked by traffic route changes at Muldown school
A few Muldown Elementary parents are frustrated with new changes in the drop-off parking rules at the elementary school.
Legals September 19, 2018
No. 2447 WHITEFISH CITY COUNCIL NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING At the regular meeting of the Whitefish City Council on Monday, October 15, 2018 at 7:10 pm, the Council will hold a public hearing on the item listed below. The City Council meets at 418 E Second Street in the Whitefish City Council Chambers on the second floor. A request by Darin Martens to amend condition #5 of the Rivertrail Subdivision as it pertains to the building envelope on the face of the plat for Lot 1, Rivertrail in S31, T31N, R21W. (WPP-93-11A) Minnich Documents pertaining to this agenda item are available for review at the Whitefish Planning & Building Department, 418 E Second Street, during regular business hours. The full application packet along with public comments and staff report will be available on the City's webpage: www.cityofwhitefish.org under Mayor and City Council approximately 5 days prior to the meeting date. 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: bminnich@cityofwhitefish.org. For questions or further information regarding this proposal, phone 406-863-2410. WHITEFISH CITY COUNCIL John Muhlfeld, Mayor September 19, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________
Tuesday, September 18
No headline
Community briefs Sept. 19
Beth Dunagan tells of lifelong relationship with historic Sperry Chalet
Beth Dunagan’s “Welcome to Sperry Chalet” reminds us of the joys and quieting awe that Glacier National Park brings us year round. Sharing her personal experiences with Sperry Chalet from 1954 to 2007, it is a heart-warming story of deep and binding love — long term family and friend relationships, connected to a unique hotel home for visitors and family together, in the calming quiet and natural beauty of Glacier’s remote backcountry.
Donations in Great Fish hit $1.88M
Donors gave generously up until the very last minute of the Great Fish Community Challenge on Friday resulting in more than $200,000 being collected on the final day.
Play a reminder to delight in the every day of life
The Whitefish Theatre Co. presents its first Black Curtain Theatre production of the 2018-2019 season with “Every Brilliant Thing” at the O’Shaughnessy Center in Whitefish.
Bike retreat holds fundraiser to maintain winter trail system
A few years ago Cricket Butler saw a trend — fat bikes were becoming more popular as a way to get out on winter trails, but there wasn’t a groomed trail system for those wanting to ride.
Stillwater proposes timber project
The Montana Department of Natural Resources is proposing a timber harvest on 640 acres of the Stillwater State Forest north of Whitefish.
Whitefish chalets make list of world's greatest places
Snow Bear Chalets, ski-in and ski-out treehouses at Whitefish Mountain Resort, has been selected as one of TIME Magazine’s 2018 World’s Greatest Places.
Concerns raised about teacher, administrator relationships after survey
One Whitefish Schools parents is raising concerns about the relationship between teachers and administrators, but school district officials say they are already working to improve relationships.
Whitefish Schood District food service program wins awards
The Whitefish School District’s food program has earned both state and national recognition.
Forest plans prescribed fire projects
Fire managers on Flathead National Forest are planning to conduct fall prescribed fire projects when weather, fuel conditions and air quality become favorable.
City installs electric vehicle charging in parking garage
Electric cars can now get a recharge in the city’s parking structure.
Teacher chosen for national institute
Gary Carmichael, a Muldown Elementary and Whitefish Middle School teacher, was selected as one of 50 teachers nationwide to participate in the National Summer Teacher Institute on Innovation, STEM, and Intellectual Property in Tampa, Florida. The institute was sponsored by The United States Patent and Trademark Office in collaboration with the University of South Florida.
District OKs bus contract
The Whitefish School Board on Sept. 11 updated its school bus contract with Rocky Mountain Transportation, Inc.
XC girls take first in Polson
The Whitefish girls cross country team took home gold at the Mission Shadow Duels in Polson.
Lady Bulldogs suffer conference loss to Loggers at home
The Lady Dogs put up a fight, but couldn’t bring down the Lady Loggers at home last week.
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In both sunshine and rain, hundreds of runners competed Sunday in the Two Bear Marathon through Whitefish.
SGB students compete in Oregon
Students from Straight Blast Gym recently traveled to the Oregon Open Jiu Jitsu Championship in Hillsboro, Oregon.
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Hole-in-one
Newton places amongst professionals at Pro-Am
WLGA Board Candidates
Lady Dogs nip Kats 3-1
The Lady Bulldogs got a satisfying 3-1 win over the rival Columbia Falls Wildkats last week.
Bulldogs best Corvallis in final minutes for second win
Another week, another dramatic Bulldogs football victory.
Bulldogs blank Wildcats 4-0
A hot second half lifted the Bulldogs over Columbia Falls in a 4-0 win last week.
Too few trees in DNRC proposal
I went to a show me sponsored by the state Department of Natural Resources and Conservation on May 5 at the Legacy Partners Beaver Lake Trailhead. It does not seem that there are that many trees in this area in the first place and you would be right. But the state is going into this piece of ground (915 acres) and proceeding to take what few trees are still standing. The state will leave four to eight mature trees per acre, around the chain of lakes, that are within the boundaries of this sale.
Re-elect Fern to Legislature
I want to encourage voters to return Dave Fern to the Montana House of Representatives. Dave is a local businessman; with his wife, Heather, raised their family, while Dave served on the local school board and the state organizations. Dave supports public education — both at the local school board and as a legislator. Dave willingly works with both sides of the political aisle and looks seriously at opposition concerns and works to bridge differences. Dave supported public lands and tax relief in the previous legislature. He is well-studied on issues and educates himself on the details of the many issues he will face at the legislature.
Tester doesn't represent Montana, votes for liberal agenda
Jon Tester represents wacky liberals instead of Montana. Don’t believe that? Let’s just look at his voting record since he’s been in the U.S. Senate.
Tester champion for Montana's outdoor heritage
If you’ve spent any amount of time enjoying Montana’s incredible natural beauty, chances are you’ve benefited from public access to public lands. This November, protecting public lands will be on the ballot—and Jon Tester is a proven champion for Montana’s outdoor heritage.
Thanks Tester for remaining accessible to constituents
I wanted to take this opportunity to thank Sen. Jon Tester for remaining accessible to his constituents.
Sally Jo Askevold
A memorial for Sally Jo Askevold is 3-5 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 23 at the Bohemian Hall, 125 W. Blanchard Lake Road (behind Montana Coffee Traders on U.S. Highway 93 South) in Whitefish.
Thursday, September 13
Fire department issues caution after burn pile threatens residence
The Whitefish Fire Department is reminding residents that open burning is not allowed until Oct. 1 after responding to an out of control burn pile on Wednesday afternoon.
Wednesday, September 12
City gathers input for housing project for snow lot
Whitefish is considering what an affordable housing development on the city’s snow lot might look like.
City examines architectural standards
The city’s Architectural Review Committee is looking for better ways to keep Whitefish looking sharp.
Whitefish begins long-anticipated plan for 93
After sitting on the docket for more than a decade, the city of Whitefish is taking the public’s pulse on the future of the Highway 93 South corridor.
Legals September 12, 2018
No. 2446 WHITEFISH BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING At a meeting of the Whitefish Board of Adjustment on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 at 6:00 pm, the Board will hold a public hearing on the items listed below. The Board of Adjustments meets in the Whitefish Council Chambers at City Hall, at 418 E. 2nd Street, Whitefish, Montana. A variance request by Randall Crone with assistance from Larry Wyman to reduce the side yard setback to install a fireplace chase on existing house. The property is located at 690 Woodside Lane. (WZV 18-04) Minnich Documents pertaining to this agenda item are available for review at the Whitefish Planning & Building Department, 418 E. 2nd Street, Whitefish, Montana 59937 during regular business hours. Inquiries are welcomed. Interested parties are invited to attend the hearing 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: bminnich@cityofwhitefish.org. For questions or further information regarding this request, phone 406-863-2410. WHITEFISH BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS Herb Peschel, Chair September 12, 2018 MNAXLP __________________________
Tuesday, September 11
Group helps provide support for students
For some young students, life can get in the way of learning — an issue Intermountain Services hopes to remedy.
No headline
A weekly look at past Whitefish Pilot articles, compiled by Daniel McKay.
WHS homecoming events next week
Whitefish High School will be celebrating homecoming activities the week of Sept. 17-22 with sporting events, a parade, and a number of activities to promote Bulldog pride with students and the community.
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Wednesday, Sept. 5
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Whitefish City Council meets on Sept. 17 at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall at 418 E. Second St. The following agenda items will be discussed, subject to change:
Teams from region expected for Pro-Am
Cart Paths to be renovated
Barbara (Bobbie) Stocking
Barbara (Bobbie) Stocking, 98, was born in Steelman, Saskatchewan, Canada on Jan. 11, 1920 and went to meet her Lord and Savior on Aug. 10, 2018.
Sparrow's Nest committed to serving Valley
A recent article in the Daily Inter Lake has raised some concerns as to why Sparrow’s Nest of NW MT is transitioning from a house in Whitefish to a newly renovated home in Kalispell. We, the Board of Directors of Sparrow’s Nest of NW MT, understand the community’s concerns and want to make it clear we are dedicated to our mission of ensuring safe, supportive housing for unaccompanied homeless high schools students in all areas of the Flathead Valley.
Fundraising continues for vehicle for WHS grad
Organizers of a fundraiser to assist in purchasing a vehicle for a Whitefish man are planning a celebration Saturday to continue raising funds and present him with a check.
Writing coaches needed to work with students
Writing Coaches of Montana seeks community members in Whitefish to help local students develop better writing skills for the 2018-19 school year. The program helps students become better critical thinkers, as well as more confident, competent writers.
Council approves small subdivision
Whitefish City Council last week approved a small subdivision on Whitefish Avenue.
The buzz around town
It’s no secret that the Flathead Valley has its share of quality microbreweries.
Planetree Festival returns Sept. 12 to North Valley Hospital
North Valley Hospital will celebrate its Planetree Festival on Wednesday, Sept. 12 from 3-8 p.m.
Lady Dogs spike Polson, Stillwater
The Lady Bulldogs got a clean sweep of Polson in their home opener last week.
Lady Dogs fall short in weekend matches
It was a tough weekend for the Lady Bulldogs, who dropped a pair of close matches against Laurel and Billings Central.
Dogs win thriller at home
With the game on the line, the Bulldogs stepped up.
Harriers compete with top schools
The Whitefish girls showed up to compete at the Flathead Cross Country Invitational on Friday, grabbing third overall in a meet that mixed class A and AA teams.
Lady Dog golfers win in Libby
The Whitefish girls golf team took home another first-place finish at the Cabinet View Invitational in Libby last week.
Dogs take down teams from east, now 5-0
The Bulldogs upped the win streak to 5-0 after wins over Laurel and Billings Central this weekend.
Soccer nets slashed in alleged act of vandalism
Six soccer nets were destroyed over the weekend at Smith Fields in an apparent act of vandalism.
Saturday, September 8
Great Fish Color Run
Hundreds of runners competed in the Great Fish Community Challenge 5K Color Run/Walk Saturday morning through downtown Whitefish.
Friday, September 7
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Whitefish picked up its first win of the season in a dramatic 28-27 comeback over Butte Central.
Star Meadow residents dispute gated road
The recent installation of a gate across a gravel road that has been used by the public for several decades has residents in the Star Meadows area unhappy.
Wednesday, September 5
A new school year
Welcome back, and I hope you have had a good start to the school year!
Miss Whitefish Teen looks to put purpose behind pageantry
Dani Mayeaux says one day she may just run for President of the United States.
Trail work days set for Flathead Forest
Flathead National Forest is inviting local citizens to join its September Trails Initiative and help make a few trails close to home a little better.
WHS homecoming set for Sept. 17-22
Whitefish High School will be celebrating homecoming activities the week of Sept. 17-22 with sporting events, dress up days, lunchtime activities, spirit assembly, parade, Booster Club barbecue, and dance will promote Bulldog pride with students and community.
Tates celebrate 50th anniversary
Bruce and Susan Tate of Whitefish recently celebrated their 50th anniversary at the North 40 Resort in Columbia Falls, with a catered dinner for family and friends. Many members of the original wedding party were in attendance.
City gathers input on plan for Highway 93
Whitefish is beginning to gather public input on the corridor plan focusing on the future of land use for the south entrance to the city.
Nearing end of busy summer, Resort plans to add alpine slide
As it nears the end of another busy summer season, Whitefish Mountain Resort last week announced plans to expand its summer activities.
Whitefish Review now in 200 stores, accepting submissions
The Whitefish Review has expanded its distribution and is now featured in more than 200 bookstores nationwide.
Meetings focus on affordable housing for city's snow lot
Whitefish is hosting a series of meetings designed to gather input on developing the city’s snow lot for affordable housing.
Great Fish hits $900,000 ahead of Color Run
Heading into the remaining days of the campaign, the fourth annual Great Fish Community Challenge has raised more than $900,000 for participating nonprofits.
City still accepts plastic recycling
The centralized recycling site in downtown Whitefish continues to accept plastic for recycling despite the discontinuation earlier this year of such recycling elsewhere in Flathead County.
Curriculum director looks forward to new year
Since joining the Whitefish School District as Director of Curriculum in 2016, Ryder Delaloye has been at the forefront of a number of innovative programs implemented by the district — including the Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship, personalized student projects and entrepreneurial programs like Junior Achievement.
Planetree Festival returns to North Valley Hospital on Sept. 12
This year, the Planetree Festival is back at North Valley Hospital. It comes around every two years, and this year the festival is a little jazzier and a little bit bigger to celebrate the 16th Anniversary of the Planetree model with the community at our beautiful hospital facility.
Sally Jo Askevold
Sally Jo Askevold of Whitefish passed on peacefully at home on May 23, 2018 at the age of 71, following a lengthy illness.
Three to be inducted into WHS Hall of Fame
Whitefish High School will hold the 2018 Hall of Fame induction ceremony during the Friday, Sept. 7 football game against Butte Central at Memorial Field.
Broncs buck Dogs at home
The Bulldogs defense managed to get a safety on the Frenchtown Broncs, but that was the lone score in a 38-2 setback for Whitefish.
Lady Dogs fall to Libby in conference opener
The Lady Dogs couldn’t get ahead of Libby in their conference opener.
Bulldogs place high at Ronan Invite
Whitefish had three golfers in the top 10 during the Ronan Invitational over the weekend.
Lady Dogs split against Livingston, Belgrade
Goals from Anna Cook and Olivia Potthoff led the Lady Dogs past Livingston over the weekend.
Bulldogs' season off to hot 3-0 start
The Bulldogs soccer team got an early rematch of last year’s state title match against Belgrade.