Ellington

Governor says mid-June opening in works for Glacier Park

Glacier National Park is expected to begin a phased reopening the second week of June, Montana Gov. Steve Bullock said Thursday afternoon.

Whitefish Mountain Resort pass prices remain same as last season

Season pass prices at Whitefish Mountain Resort for the 2020-2021 season will not increase.

Forest Service investigating helicopter incident in Bob Marshall Wilderness

Two horsemen on a recent trip into the Bob Marshall Wilderness said they found something they never expected: A couple fishing on a sandbar of the South Fork of the Flathead after allegedly landing a helicopter there.

Woody Weekend boat show canceled

Whitefish Woody Weekend 2020, presented by the Big Sky Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society and hosted by The Lodge at Whitefish Lake, has been canceled due to COVID-19 concerns.

Supports Brockman

I have known Tony Brockman for nearly 20 years, first in my role as a teacher at Flathead High School, then as a colleague and friend as we worked on projects together. Tony is a “can do” person who works hard to accomplish things for the greater good of all. I am convinced that Tony is the right choice for our next Flathead County Commissioner.

Businesses support June 1 opening for Glacier

Supports Graybill

“This campaign is about more than an election. It’s about staking out a place for individual choice and personal freedoms in the face of new attacks on our rights. It’s the job of Montana Attorney General to advocate for and defend your rights — I will never settle for less,” Raph Graybill, Candidate for Montana Attorney General.

City updates parking regulations including adding prohibition for camping on streets

Whitefish City Council last week approve a suite of changes to its parking regulations.

Songwriter festival preparing for September start

Despite this spring’s coronavirus closures, the inaugural Whitefish Songwriter Festival is still set to take the stage in September.

Council voices support for county 911 funding levy

Whitefish is showing its support for a potential levy that would support the Flathead County 911 Emergency Communications Center.

Council approves first residential project under affordable housing program

Whitefish City Council last week approved a 52-unit condominium project along U.S. Highway 93 West.

Rural board acting recklessly if it leaves city fire service

I am a homeowner of 29 years in Hidden Valley, just down the road from the Whitefish Rural Fire Hall. I am VERY concerned about the urban/wildland interface and the threat of a wildfire in our wooded rural area north of Hodgson Road in between Whitefish Stage Road and Highway 93 to the east and west and north to Montana 40.

Twins win one, drop two in opening series

The Glacier Twins got a tough start to their shortened season over the weekend.

Means to join Fort Lewis College cycling squad

Caden Means will take his talents to the collegiate level, having recently signed on to join the cycling team at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado.

WLGC still hopeful for summer tournaments despite pandemic

Tournament schedules

UM student awarded fellowships to study Middle Fork

While the climate as a whole is changing, Claire Rawlings Gilder wants to examine the ways just one part of our world is changing with it — our rivers.

Additional donation adds to possible total for Trail Challenge

The community is having fun on the Whitefish Trail this May with 15,490 miles logged so far in the second annual Hit the Trail Challenge.

Police Calls: Bear at home on Nature Trail

Friday, May 15

Looking Back for May 27

A weekly look at past Whitefish Pilot articles, compiled by Daniel McKay.

Council meets June 1

Whitefish City Council meets on Monday, June 1 at 6 p.m. electronically through WebEx.

WCA hires Paulson as new academic dean

The Whitefish Christian Academy has named Matthew Paulson as its new Academic Dean.

Marlene Havens

Marlene Havens

Marlene Havens, 84, of Whitefish, passed away May 21, 2020, at her home.

Arlean Geneva Keister

Arlean Geneva Keister

Arlean Geneva Keister, 97, passed away on May 15, 2020, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.

Kathleen “Kay” Kraber Lund, 89

Kathleen “Kay” Kraber Lund, 89

Kay left this earth peacefully on May 13, 2020. She began her journey on Oct. 10, 1930.

Davis sworn in to Council

Ben Davis was sworn in to Whitefish City Council Monday night.

Homeowners tell rural fire board to continue contract with city

Homeowners in the Whitefish Fire Service Area on Tuesday emphatically told the rural fire board they want their fire service to remain with the Whitefish Fire Department, even if it means an increase to their tax bills.

Whitefish lifts ban on lodging stays beginning June 1

Whitefish’s emergency ordinance restricting stays at lodging facilities is being lifted on June 1.

Rural fire board proposal means decrease in service

As a retired fire chief and past 16-year volunteer firefighter, I implore you to take action if you are a resident of the Whitefish Fire Service Area and recently received a letter about their upcoming contract negotiations with the City of Whitefish.

Science teacher earns scholarship for graduate work

Whitefish High School science teacher Damian Estrada has been named one of three Reach Higher Montana Dual Enrollment Educator Scholarship winners.

Thanks given to thoughtful city employee

We live in Red Lodge the majority of the year but also are lucky enough to have a home in Whitefish. We have been unable to visit Whitefish for the past two months because of COVID-19.

Commissioners table scenic sign reg changes

Flathead County Commissioners last week unanimously voted to table a change to sign regulations in the scenic corridor, citing concerns about the public’s ability to comment on the changes.

Honoring sacrifice

Every crisis has new heroes. During the 9/11 attacks, they were the first responders running into burning and crumbling buildings as others ran out. Now, during the coronavirus pandemic, the most visible heroes are the health care professionals, who are saving others and risking their own lives while doing so.

Stumptown Historical Society license plate in jeopardy

The Stumptown Historical Society is just 30 purchases away from saving the Whitefish license plate.

Hole-in-one

Ted Johann shot a hole-in-one on May 14 on hole 16 of the South Course at Whitefish Lake Golf Course. He made the shot at 135 yards with a 9 Iron. Witnesses were Tom LaChance, Dave Thomas and Scott Janni.

Barbara “Barbi” Harp

Barbara “Barbi” Harp

Barbara “Barbi” Harp, 84, of Whitefish, passed away at North Valley Hospital on May 12, 2020.

J. Anthony Dede

J. Anthony Dede

J. Anthony Dede M.D., 86, of Whitefish, died May 17, 2020, with his wife Jeanie by his side and Mr. Boodles and Bimmer.

Arlean G. Keister

Arlean G. Keister

Arlean G. Keister, 97, formerly of Whitefish, passed away May 15, 2020, at North Valley Hospital.

District says students stay engaged in remote learning

Remote learning for Whitefish Schools has been a process for staff and students, but data shows students are staying connected even at home.

Flathead Forest releases draft decision for Salish Good management plan

The Flathead National Forest has released a draft decision notice and finding of no significant impact for the Salish Good resource management project planned for the Tally Lake Ranger District.

Tailwaggers settles in at new Central Avenue shop

When Chase Pierce decided to move Tailwaggers Pet Store from its original location on Third Street to its new Central Avenue home, he hadn’t quite anticipated what this spring would hold.

Course adds online tee time booking

Cart rules with COVID-19

District plans out professional development opportunities amid remote learning

After its first year of professional learning communities, the Whitefish School District is looking to further expand its professional development opportunities for staff.

Mountain Cinema movie theater closes permanently

While Montana’s movie theaters got the go-ahead to start reopening Friday, Mountain Cinema 4 in Whitefish will be shutting its doors forever.

Grave mistake for rural fire board to create volunteer department

If you live outside the city and generally inside the Whitefish School District, your fire protection is currently provided by the city of Whitefish, through a contract between Whitefish Fire Service Area and the City of Whitefish.

Farmers Market set to open in June with restrictions

The Whitefish Farmers Market is delaying its opening this summer to Tuesday, June 9.

White ash covered Whitefish 40 years ago

A weekly look at past Whitefish Pilot articles, compiled by Daniel McKay.

Montana set to enter second phase of reopening June 1

Montana is set on June 1 to move into phase two of reopening the state, Gov. Steve Bullock announced Tuesday afternoon.

Police calls: Lion cubs on the loose

Friday, May 8

Bar approved for Highway 93 South

Whitefish City Council on May 4 approved the operation of a bar in an existing commercial building on Highway 93 South.

Lake volunteer honored for work collecting samples

The Whitefish Lake Institute honors long-time Northwest Montana Lakes Volunteer Monitoring Network volunteer, Barb Hvizdak, with its Volunteer Service Award.

Heavy rain expected Tuesday into Wednesday

The National Weather Service is predicting the Flathead Valley should receive about 1 to 1.5 inches of rain Tuesday into Wednesday, but some higher elevation areas could see 3 inches of rain, as a large low pressure system comes in off the coast.

Opposition to MudMan as it reopens in Columbia Falls

A group of protesters gathered in front of MudMan Burgers in Columbia Falls on Sunday to rally against the restaurant’s relaunch. The group held up signs with various messages including “Workers Drug Thru Mud,” “Never Fund a Cult” and “Forced Labor = Slavery.”

Memorial Day parade canceled

This year’s Memorial Day parade through Whitefish has been canceled.

Rural fire district eyes split from city

The Whitefish Fire Service Area board is considering splitting from the Whitefish Fire Department to operate its own volunteer department rather than pay a proposed increase for services.

Whitefish Olympian Maggie Voisin named Freeskiing Athlete of the Year

Olympian Maggie Voisin has been named Freeskiing Athlete of the Year by the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team.

WHS plans for outdoor graduation ceremony

Whitefish High School is moving forward with its plans for an outdoor graduation ceremony next month.

Owens wants to bolster state’s economy

Catherine Owens says she wants to create a strong economy for Montana, while protecting individual rights.

Expansion of brewery building earns approval

City Council last week approved a request to expand the former Great Northern Brewing Company building on Central Avenue for the planned operation of a microbrewery and restaurant.

Guymon plans to hold officials accountable

Shawn Guymon says if he’s elected to the Montana Legislature he intends to get things accomplished.

Council pushes vote on condos

Whitefish City Council last week delayed a decision on a request to develop a large condominium project planned along U.S. Highway 93 West.

Golden retriever group holds parade honoring frontline workers

Goldenstock Whitefish recently gathered together for a parade to thank workers on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Legals for May, 13 2020

Music festival canceled

Local music lovers will have to wait another year for the second Under the Big Sky festival.

Looking back for May 13

City Council meets May 18

Whitefish City Council meets on Monday, May 18 at 7:10 p.m. electronically through WebEx.

Giving Tuesday yields $500,000 for nonprofits

Donations poured in on Giving Tuesday, the Day of Giving and Unity, a fundraising campaign hosted by Whitefish Community Foundation and Flathead Community Foundation with more than $500,000 being awarded through the campaign.

Thank you teachers and staff

May 11 through May 15 is Whitefish Schools Teacher and Staff Appreciation Week, a special time to celebrate the people that teach and support the students of Whitefish Schools no matter where “school” is happening!

Memorial ski run for ‘Chappy’

Memorial ski run for ‘Chappy’

I am writing in regards to the recent passing of Christopher “Chappy” Chapman. Chappy needs no introduction, anyone who knew him knows what an ambassador he was for the Big Mountain and the Flathead Valley. As a skier and a friend of Chappy, I am proposing that a run on the Big Mountain be named in his honor and memory. It’s my understanding there are some new runs going to be cut in, in the Grand Junction area. This would be a perfect time to name one of the new runs, “Chappys Run.” Whoever makes those decisions please consider it. Chappy and all his friends, particularly his ski buddies would be honored.

Thank you from everyone at North Valley Hospital

As we navigate how we will continue to manage the coronavirus pandemic, at North Valley Hospital we would like to recognize the incredible support from our community and patients over the last few months.

Thanks for strong opening at course

Appreciate our members

Twins still set to compete among Legion cancellations

While the American Legion announced Sunday it was withdrawing all sponsorship for Legion baseball in 2020, the Glacier Twins are set to play on anyway.

Subdivision plan goes to county planning board

A request for a preliminary plat approval for a six-lot subdivision at the intersection of Lamb Lane and Karrow Avenue has been submitted to the Flathead County Planning Department.

City reopens sports courts, City Beach boat launch

Whitefish has reopened its tennis courts at Riverside Park and Grouse Mountain Park, as well as the pickleball courts at Memorial Park.

County returns to sign regulations

Flathead County is taking another stab at signage regulations in the scenic corridor of area highways.

Police calls: Man in orange jumpsuit spotted

Friday, May 1

Hoagy C. Carmichael

Hoagy C. Carmichael

Hoagy C. Carmichael, 84 of Whitefish, passed away May 8, 2020, at Hidden Meadows. God put a yodel in his heart.

Brockman sees need to diversify Flathead economy

Tony Brockman said he hopes to offer a “newer, fresher prospective” to the Flathead County Commission if he becomes the next county commissioner. Brockman, a Republican, seeks to replace Phil Mitchell, outgoing commissioner of District 1.

Adams says he’ll take strong stand on property rights

Elliot Adams said he “wants to be able to take a stand for people’s individual rights” if he is elected the next Flathead County commissioner.

Larson would bring community-centered approach to office

Kristen Larson said she will serve with “honesty, integrity and love for community” if she is elected Flathead County commissioner.

Abell touts his blue-collar, pro-business vision for county

Brad Abell says he will bring a “blue-collar, working-guy” perspective to the Flathead County commissioners’ office if he is elected.

California man admits blackmailing Whitefish businessman

A California man accused of threatening to blackmail a Whitefish businessman admitted his guilt Thursday in U.S. District Court in Missoula.

Pilot warns of scam email not associated with newspaper

Some Whitefish businesses have received an email appearing to be connected with the Pilot’s Best of Whitefish contest, but the notice is not associated with the newspaper.

Gyms, pools, movie theaters and museums can begin reopening May 15

Gyms and fitness studios, movie theaters and museums have the option to reopen beginning Friday, May 15, Gov. Steve Bullock announced Thursday.

Whitefish man charged with partner assault, striking police officer

A Whitefish man is being held at the Flathead County Jail following an incident on Sunday that began with alleged family member assault, a Whitefish Police officer being struck by the perpetrator’s vehicle and a high-speed chase.

County Health Officer urges caution noting most aren’t yet immune to COVID-19

Flathead County currently has no active confirmed cases of COVID-19 and the total number of cases has been holding steady for about three weeks, but the Flathead City-County Health Officer is still urging caution.

State rolls out coronavirus grant program

Montana Gov. Steve Bullock Tuesday announced the state was setting up a massive program to help businesses, individuals and the farm industry to deal with the coronavirus crisis in the state.

WHS grad works in lab studying coronavirus

Myndi Holbrook is among the scientists working on the front lines for research regarding COVID-19 and those seeking a vaccine for the virus.

Sewing support

Mariel Cole has been sewing most of her life, and when it became necessary for people to wear masks in everyday life due to the COVID-19 pandemic she got out her sewing machine and got to work.

Economy may take two years to recover from virus impact

The state’s economy has been rattled by the coronavirus outbreak, and it’s going to take some time to recover.

Whitefish extends ban on lodging stays indefinitely

Whitefish’s ban on stays at lodging facilities will remain in place as long as Montana is proceeds through the gradual phases of reopening the state.

Council calls for removal of doctor from health board

Whitefish Mayor John Muhlfeld and City Council are calling for the removal of a doctor from the Flathead City-County Board of Health following her comments regarding COVID-19.

City parks plan phased reopening through spring, summer

Whitefish is planning a phased reopening for its park and recreation facilities as possible this spring and likely into summer.

Legals for May, 6 2020

Recovery group meets online

I have started a new recovery group in Whitefish. The program is called Smart Recovery. It is a science-based program to help people manage their recovery from any type of addictive behavior. We focus on self-empowerment through learning skills like how to build and maintain motivation, cope with urges, managing thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and living a balanced life. Before the pandemic in person meetings were just about to begin. Post-pandemic we are online with Zoom every Thursday at 7 p.m. I hope to get the word out that there is a new option for help despite social distancing. Our community and myself personally have lost to many loved ones to addiction. I hope that by having more options available and an atmosphere of empowerment and inclusion we can make a difference.

Thanks for welcoming ‘Chappy’

Thanks for welcoming ‘Chappy’

I am the mother of Christopher “Chappy“ Chapman who passed away on April 25, 2020. I want to thank you all for making him welcome 36 years ago. He had an incredible life for those 36 years. Being a bartender in all the places in town was a profession he thoroughly enjoyed. He also liked to ski Big Mountain, water ski in the lake, hike the mountains in Glacier Park and float all the rivers in northwest Montana.

Supports conservative candidates

Vote to maintain our freedom and make sure our government is fiscally responsible. Excellenceinvoting.org provides honest information on candidates. The most effective and responsive government is the one closest to the people. It is time to turn the COVID-19 decisions over to the Montana Counties. Also, we are going to need legislators with skill and expertise in Helena. They will be required to repair the damage done by closing Montana’s economy. The liberal solution is to raise taxes and grow government which will not build a strong economy. Conservative Carl Glimm who is running for Senate, District 2 has the financial acumen. He has served on House appropriations and is an excellent choice along with Keith Regier in SD 3 (Chaired Judiciary) and Bob Brown in SD 7 (Chaired Fish, Wildlife and Parks). These three legislators along with Senators Bob Keenan and Mark Blasdel are all experienced and have the skill to deal with the funding deficit we will have as the result of COVID-19.

Supports Brockman for Commissioner

Flathead County residents have an important decision to make this year regarding who represents us on the Flathead County Commissioner’s Board. I strongly urge you to vote for Tony Brockman for County Commissioner.

Financial strategies for self-employed and small businesses

Here are four ways that self-employed people and small businesses can take advantage of the current economic situation caused by COVID-19.

Being aware of potential COVID-19 scams

At a time when everyone is impacted by this pandemic crisis, it’s hard to imagine that anyone would want to cause additional harm. Yet, right now there are thieves who want to bilk you out of your COVID-19 recovery checks.

Share road with bicyclists

With the beginning of nice weather, many of us are heading outside to recreate on bicycles. Now seems like a good time to remind all of us how to safely and courteously Share the Road. The Montana Driver Manual and state law provide excellent guidance.

Melissa Hartman resigns from City Council, Ben Davis tapped to fill position

Whitefish City Councilor Melissa Hartman has resigned from her position.

‘Chappy’ remembered as a friend for everybody

In Chris “Chappy” Chapman, everyone in Whitefish had a friend.

WHS ranked seventh in state

Whitefish High School is seventh best in the state, according to a recent U.S. News & World report.

Whitefish Lake courses already busy in first week

It took exactly 40 minutes for every tee time to fill last Wednesday, April 29, when the course opened for the 2020 season. The phones rang off the hook as the staff worked diligently to accommodate the requests to play. The phone system’s stacking system was on overload with lots of callers simply having to redial several times. We apologize that not everyone eventually was able to secure a tee time and hopefully that high demand will lessen so everyone wanting to play can do so. We have gone back to 8 minute intervals to better accommodate the demand.

Police Calls: Bear hanging out in tree

George Boehm Miller

George Boehm Miller

There is no tragedy in the death of George Boehm Miller, 90, who passed away suddenly on April 25, 2020. Great sadness, unfathomable grief, yes, but there is no tragedy. He lived his life without reservation, giving to his community, friends, and family with a whole heart. Nothing was left unsaid.

Christopher “Chappy” Chapman

Christopher “Chappy” Chapman

Christopher “Chappy” Chapman

Lillian Judge

Lillian Judge

Lillian Judge, 91, longtime Whitefish resident passed away on Wednesday, April 29, at the Montana Veteran’s Home.

Montana Air National Guard flyover Wednesday honors first responders

Montana Air National Guard holds flyover Wednesday to honor first responders

City Hall reopens to public access with precautions

Whitefish City Hall on Monday, May 4 reopened to public access with precautions in place regarding COVID-19.