Looking Back for May 27

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

10 years ago

May 27, 2010

Tourism in the Valley was increasing to grow, following a new record 2 million visitors at Glacier the previous summer. Whitefish and other local lodges were looking ahead to even more visitors, which were expected due to Glacier’s centennial celebration.

20 years ago

May 25, 2000

Concern rose from community members after a local business posted a sign seeking “exotic dancers and bikini-clad servers.” The Downtowner in Whitefish had posted a sign offering the services, though the city Building Inspector said “sexually oriented” businesses weren’t allowed in town, sparking a debate on the differences between the words “exotic” and “erotic.”

30 years ago

May 24, 1990

Whitefish residents were on the lookout for a new menace in town — the “flower bandit.” In the few days since the start of that week, police had investigated 11 reports of stolen flowers and planters from across town.

40 years ago

May 29, 1980

Whitefish was looking at ways to improve its sports offerings in town. The city’s Parks Committee was looking into rebuilding the Memorial Field tennis courts near the high school, as well as adding a basketball court. The city was also looking at obtaining funding for a covered pool, which was to likely be added to the saddle club grounds on Wisconsin Avenue.

50 years ago

May 28, 1970

A group of about 40 Whitefish High School seniors would not be attending graduation, though they would be receiving diplomas eventually. The seniors were barred from graduation activities after consuming beer at a party following the traditional senior breakfast before returning to school. A parent of a student even petitioned to force the district to allow them to attend activities, though that was dismissed by the District Judge, Robert S. Keller.