Ellington

Sun Road open date pushed back to July 13 at the earliest

Visitors hoping to drive the full length of Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road will have to wait a few more weeks — at least.

Rockslides, slump close section along Hungry Horse Reservoir

Approximately 10 miles of road is closed along the west shore of Hungry Horse Reservoir due to unstable terrain causing rockslides and a slump.

Boat sinks on Whitefish Lake; no injuries reported

The Whitefish Police Department and Fire Department responded to a report of a capsized boat on Whitefish Lake Monday evening around 7:30 p.m.

Developer who proposed Mountain Gateway now looking to create large subdivision in CFalls

A developer is proposing a major subdivision on farmland east of the river just outside Columbia Falls.

Summer adventures at the Library

Whitefish Community Library’s first week of Summer Adventures is in the books.

‘An Inconvenient Grizzly’ presentation

The North Fork Preservation Association hosts a Montana Conversation “An Inconvenient Grizzly” with Greg Smith on July 4 at 3 p.m.

Hit the Trail Challenge another success

The Whitefish Legacy Partners’ fourth annual Hit the Trail Challenge returned this May.

WTC offers summer theatre camps

Enrollment is now open for Whitefish Theatre Company’s Summer Performance Camps. WTC is offering programs for all age groups, from first through 12th grades.

Fourth of July events in Whitefish

Over the Independence Day holiday, Whitefish will again be host to a fun-filled weekend. Throughout July 1-3, the 43rd annual Whitefish Arts Festival will take over downtown in Depot Park. The event sponsored by the Whitefish Christian Academy is an annual favorite throughout the Northwest.

Bud and Marilyn Wilhelm

Bud and Marilyn Wilhelm open house

Dennis Michael Northburg

Dennis “Denny” Michael Northburg, age 77, of Brainerd, Minnesota passed away on June 10, 2022.

Overturn of Roe shifts Montana abortion debates to state courts

Montana’s elected officials reacted to the U.S. Supreme Court ruling Friday overturning the landmark Roe v. Wade decision, which had made abortion legal nationwide for nearly 50 years.

Council adopts increased fees for trash collection; continuing alley pickup possible

Whitefish residents will see their monthly fee for garbage service rise from its current rate of $10.78 to $17.25 along with the arrival of new bear-resistant containers.

Council Briefs: Bears already a problem; city budget, zoning change approved

Since the start of May, there have already been nearly 100 bear and wild animal conflict calls from the Whitefish area reported to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks.

Whitefish’s Barnes to compete in Miss Montana Competition

The Miss Montana competition will be held in Billings at Movement Montana, 925 Broadwater Avenue on Saturday, July 2, 2022, at 7 p.m. Five women will compete for the title.

Pickleball Demo — learn the art of the crazy game

You may not realize this, but pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association.

Tee to Green: Prep for Fourth of July tourney

This year’s Fourth of July Tournament begins this Thursday through Saturday with players arriving from all around the region to compete in this prestigious event.

Thank you for making Woody Weekend a success

Thank You, Whitefish, for helping to make Whitefish Woody Weekend X a huge success. It was a great show with 39 beautiful classic boats from all over the Pacific Northwest, California, and Utah, 12 of which were new to Whitefish Woody Weekend.

Whitefish’s Smith wins junior golf championship

Whitefish High School senior Billy Smith will be representing Montana at the Boys Junior Americas Cup in Northern California at the end of July.

Twins finish Ed Gallo tourney 2-2

The Glacier Twins went 2-2 in the Ed Gallo Wood Bat Tournament last Thursday through Sunday at Memorial Field.

Wellness retreat farm blends healing arts, medicinal herbs

A secret oasis near Whitefish is creating a space for visitors to slow down and reconnect with nature.

City Council preview for July 5

Whitefish City Council meets on Tuesday, July 5 beginning at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall.

Homeward for Heroes: Healing together in peace of the great outdoors

Relaxing around the campfire in the company of good friends — it’s a quintessential summer pastime for many. It’s also one of the most effective ways the nonprofit Homeward for Heroes has found to help veterans...

Looking Back for June 29

Activities in Whitefish over the Fourth of July weekend were expected to contain something for everyone as the Annual Charles Nelson Memorial Babe Ruth tournament kicked off on Friday and the 37th Annual Whitefish Lake Golf Club Fourth of July Tournament began Saturday morning.

Police Calls: Bear rifling through garbage asleep on lawn

Police calls for June 10-12

Weed Rodeo helps restore native landscapes along Flathead River

When one knapweed plant has 30,000 seeds that will remain viable for up to 25 years, ridding the shoreline of them and other noxious weeds is a daunting task.

New on the block: Slow Burn Records opens on Spokane Ave

For several years, Mike and Dyan Colby often traveled from Texas to spend time in Whitefish and enjoy the rhythm of mountain living. Now they own the only record store in town, Slow Burn Records.

Legals for June, 29 2022

Glacier's Sun Road won't open before July 4 holiday weekend

Glacier National Park has announced that the Going-to-the-Sun Road will not be fully open by the July 4 holiday, though plows have made it to Logan Pass.

Supreme Court overturns Roe v. Wade; states can ban abortion

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Supreme Court has ended constitutional protections for abortion that had been in place nearly 50 years in a decision by its conservative majority to overturn Roe v. Wade. Friday's outcome is expected to lead to abortion bans in roughly half the states.

Sheriff's Office encourages people to stay off rivers after man dies in rafting accident

A 43-year-old man died Tuesday after his raft capsized on the Middle Fork of the Flathead River in rapids below Moccasin Creek, the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office said in a release.

Whitefish Review wins Best Cover Award

The American Society of Magazine Editors announced the finalists and winners of the 16th ASME Best Cover Contest, and Whitefish Review has won its second “Readers’ Choice” award. The 2022 Best Cover Contest honors magazine covers published between Jan. 1, 2021, and Dec. 31, 2021. The cover of “Taking Flight” features “Transient Desert Sands” by international photographer Rob Woodcox. Ian Griffiths is the cover designer and Adam Blue and Monica Pastor are the art and photo editors.

Scott A. Storkson

Scott A. Storkson passed away on June 12, 2022, in Missoula, Montana.

Tranel says 'I will work for Montanans'

Montanans – Democrats and Republicans – made it clear in the June 7 primary that they want a representative in Congress to represent them, rather than the corporations that exploit them.

Lost cyclist rescued in Glacier Park

Glacier National Park rangers rescued a bicyclist Wednesday who was competing in a multinational race, but ended up in the Kishenehn drainage of the park and wrecked his bicycle.

Getts looks to guide Whitefish’s efforts on affordable housing

Marissa Getts believes that land use planning is a deeply human endeavor.

Whitefish Lake nears record-high water level

Whitefish Lake is at record-high water levels due to spring precipitation. High water levels create safety hazards such as submerged obstacles, rocks, and floating debris and can lead to increase rates of shoreline erosion, according to the Whitefish Lake Institute.

Outside Kind campaign encourages trail courtesy, respect and kindness

A little kindness can go a long way. Acting with grace and respect is becoming ever important in our local communities, on the trails and in daily interactions as the Flathead Valley grows.

Whitefish senior Toelcke excels in final gymnastics meet

As soon as she stepped into the arena at the 2022 Level 9 Western Championships last month, Lucy Toelcke knew her sensors were on.

Forest seeks public comment on logging project northwest of Whitefish

The Flathead National Forest has released the environmental assessment for the Round Star Project which also starts a 30-day comment period for the public to review the project and provide feedback.

Pilot tops division in annual newspaper competition

The Whitefish Pilot earned 21 awards during the 137th annual convention of the Montana Newspaper Association held last week.

Twins edge out Mariners in doubleheader sweep

The Glacier Twins took down a conference foe twice on Sunday at Memorial Field.

ATP presents concert ‘The Queens of Country’

olly Parton. Patsy Cline. Tammy Wynette. Loretta Lynn. Reba McIntyre. The music of these “Queens of Country” along with some of their contemporary counterparts will be performed by four powerhouse women and an all-star band.

Glacier Symphony’s Night at Rebecca Farm returns in July

Beautiful scenery and warm summer weather in northwest Montana invites all to get outside and enjoy good food and good company.

Summer ArtFest showcases variety of artists this weekend

Summer ArtFest at Whitefish returns for its fourth annual art show and sale at the downtown O’Shaughnessy Cultural Arts Center.

FWP selects new northwest Montana supervisor

Lee Anderson was named the Region 1 — northwest Montana — supervisor for Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.

Police Calls: Callers flip over skateboarders

A caller who was driving southbound on Wisconsin Avenue reported that a black Suburban passed him doing 100 mph.

Looking Back for June 22

A potential community center in Whitefish was dealt a deadly blow when the school board voted to begin proceedings to construct a gymnasium with insurance funds obtained when the old Central School Gym burned down last summer.

Area 406 Music & Arts Festival returns

Area 406 Music & Arts Festival returns to the Flathead County Fairgrounds 6 p.m. to midnight Friday, July 1, and Saturday, July 2, for two days of dance music for those 18 and older.

Summer begins at Whitefish Community Library

Summer activities began Monday at the Whitefish Community Library with the annual Summer Reading Challenge and a mix of recurring programs and single events throughout June, July and August.

Planning Board recommends approval of mini-storage facility

The Whitefish Planning Board is recommending approval of a conditional use permit that would allow over 100 mini storage units in four buildings to be constructed within Whitefish city limits along Highway 93.

Council, city discuss preliminary budget numbers

Whitefish City Council met twice to hear from each city department head and review the proposed FY23 budget.

Dedicated yoga practice offers healing potential for all ages

Retirement from a long career can lead some people to feel depressed or as if they’ve lost a sense of purpose.

Duane Milo Reisch

Duane Milo Reisch, 91 of Whitefish, passed away June 15, 2022 at North Valley Hospital.

Christie Anne Graham

Christie Anne Graham, beloved mother, daughter, and sister, passed away on May 22, 2022, at her home in Seattle, Washington, after a courageous battle with cancer.

Duane Milo Reisch, 91

Duane Milo Reisch, 91 of Whitefish, passed away June 15, 2022, at Logan Health in Whitefish.

Richard Max Bullock

When asked how he would want to be celebrated, Lt. TJ Hall, Max’s Wingman, said, “Fast, Loud and Awesome!”

Donald E. DuBeau

Donald E. DuBeau died two weeks short of his 87th birthday on May 31, 2022, of natural causes.

Legals for June, 22 2022

Gianforte tours Flathead flooding

Gov. Greg Gianforte pledged Monday to back local officials and emergency responders with whatever resources they need as another bout of heavy rain swelled area waterways and prompted more evacuations.

Flooding brings road closures, evacuations

Area road closures and evacuations were ordered Tuesday evening and into Wednesday as minor flooding impacted parts of the Flathead Valley.

Shelter WF builds support to fight for housing

A grassroots organization dedicated to building public awareness around housing issues has formed in Whitefish.

Berniece May Goodwin

Berniece May Goodwin, age 95, passed away Friday, June 3, 2022 in Whitefish, Montana.

Kathleen Gregg

Kathleen Mae Ellis Gregg passed away of natural causes on Nov. 15, 2021, in Billings, Montana.

Woody Weekend activities set June 24-26

Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Whitefish Woody Weekend and the 100th Anniversary of Chris Craft Boats, the Big Sky Chapter of the Antique and Classic Boat Society presents Whitefish Woody Weekend X.

History - Looking Back for June 15

Whitefish Mayor Harold Murphy signed a document requesting funds from the federal government for construction of a sewer line to connect developments on Big Mountain with the city’s sewage disposal facilities.

Police Calls: Persistent child will dial any phone

An employee of a business on O’Brien Avenue is concerned about the number of flat tires people have been getting and the fact he’s been finding nails on the street near where they park.

Don K manager receives Patriot Award

Kevin Kaltschmidt, General Manager of Don “K” Whitefish dealership received the 2022 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award.

Glass recycling event

Citizens for a Better Flathead has partnered with Flathead Recon, a Columbia Falls-based glass recycling operation, to put on a glass recycling event on Saturday, June 25.

In a Nutshell: Building on June’s legacy and the evolution of food banking

Last Friday, we celebrated our second annual Forever June Celebration and I have been reflecting on the history of North Valley Food Bank (NVFB) and the evolution of U.S. food banks.

A plea for trees

Our industry leaders are proving their worth again by moving forward with all haste to remove all protection for our shade trees. Our USFS and state foresters have very little respect for the honest truth when they plow through the laws that shelter the wildlife we depend on.

Three concerts ring out the school year

Young musicians from the middle school and the high school treated Whitefish to several concerts recently.

City considers keeping commercial uses off Haskill Basin trail

Whitefish City Council does not want to allow commercial uses on the Haskill Basin section of the Whitefish Trail.

Council approves plat for new commercial subdivision

Last week, the developer of a proposed commercial subdivision on Baker Avenue clarified an issue regarding access to the property, which led to City Council approving the plan.

City approves planned renovations for golf club

Whitefish City Council last week approved a plan that allows the Whitefish Lake Golf Club to renovate the clubhouse at the golf course.

Hospital foundation director found passion in nonprofit work

Nonprofit work was a second career for Whitefish native Alan Satterlee, and the choice to pursue it made him take a long look at his passions in life.

Planning board considers request for storage units

The Whitefish Planning Board will meet on June 16 at 5 p.m. in City Hall.

Twins fall to Mavericks in rainout

Twins fall to Mavericks in rainout

Muldown thanks community for support throughout year

Muldown thanks community for support throughout year

Dirk Allan Erekson

Dirk Allan Erekson of Columbia Falls lost his battle with cancer and died peacefully at his home Wednesday, June 6, 2022.

Sally Ann Bethel

Sally Ann Bethel

Input sought on hunting opportunities near Columbia Falls

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking input on the scope of hunting opportunities allowed at the new Bad Rock Canyon Wildlife Management Area near Columbia Falls.

Whitefish Community Foundation awards $187,000 to nonprofits

Whitefish Community Foundation held its annual Community Grant Awards Presentation June 7 and gave more than $187,000 in grants and special awards to 44 nonprofit organizations representing projects and programs in Creston, Evergreen, Eureka, Somers, Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Kalispell, the North Fork and Whitefish.

The Antiquities Act is a bipartisan tool for the ages

This month marks the 116th anniversary of the Antiquities Act, which authorized presidents to protect public lands as national monuments. Conservation champion President Teddy Roosevelt signed the historic act into law and designated 18 national monuments across the country. Since then, presidents from both parties have successfully deployed it throughout our nation’s history.

Whitefish Review launches ‘The Vortex’ issue

Whitefish Review will launch its 27th issue “The Vortex” on Thursday, June 23 at The Lodge at Whitefish Lake tent pavilion on the shores of Whitefish Lake.

Legals for June, 15 2022

Tee to Green: Golf course moving closer to remodel

Golf course moving closer to remodel

Holmquist takes commission seat

In a stunning reversal, incumbent Flathead County Commissioner Pam Holmquist surpassed challenger Jack Fallon with the addition of provisional ballots to the final tally of last week’s primary election results.

Winslow Curt Nichols

Winslow Curt Nichols

Columbia Falls teen dies in fall from Glacier peak

A Columbia Falls teen died Tuesday, June 7 in an apparent fall while mountain climbing in Glacier National Park.

Fallon holds razor-thin lead over Holmquist

Jack Fallon holds a razor-thin lead over incumbent Pam Holmquist in the GOP nomination for the sole Flathead County Commission seat up for grabs this year.

Whitefish Transportation Plan nearly done, city seeks final public input

The City of Whitefish is nearing the completion of a needed update to the long-term Whitefish Transportation Plan that would guide decision-making through the next two decades.

Looking Back for June 8

Looking Back for June 8

More compromise, solutions needed to prevent gun violence

This evening I was witness to a conversation that should never have a reason to take place. I was sitting with my daughter-in-law and her 11-year-old daughter as they discussed some of the day’s events, the kind of sharing that every Mom and Daughter should be able to have… warm, loving, sometimes with a giggle or two.

"Goodbye Whitefish"

I am leaving you now, after many years, my once quiet little town. My heart is heavy to see what you have become. Once a humble and simple little railroad town. A place where everyone knew their neighbors.

Grieving what was

There was a post on a Flathead Valley social media page where a new resident was asking about the local’s favorite things. Well, the responses were often emotional and strongly encouraged new people NOT to come to the valley.

City proclamation honors all Whitefish School staff

At the June 6 Whitefish City Council meeting, Mayor John Muhlfeld made an official proclamation honoring the teachers, administration and staff of the Whitefish School District for their service throughout the pandemic. He proclaimed this week, June 6-12, as “Whitefish School District Rocks Week” leading up to a thank you celebration for all members of the community hosted by the Whitefish Education Foundation on June 11.

Whitefish man brought up on child endangerment charge following auto wreck

Authorities say the Whitefish man who got into a May 29 automobile wreck near McGregor Lake with four children in his vehicle was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.

NVFB hosts Forever June Celebration

North Valley Food Bank invites the public to the Forever June Celebration and Grand Reopening on Friday, June 10, from 5-8 p.m.

Hospital Corner: Cultivating healthier communities

Did you know Logan Health – Whitefish has a garden? Established in 2018, the garden was envisioned with multiple community benefits in mind.

Police Calls: A suspicious box of bullets on neighbor's doorstep

Police calls for May 20-23

Photos: WHS Class of 2022 Graduation

Whitefish High School graduated 131 seniors with the Class of 2022 Saturday during a commencement ceremony at the high school gym.

Donald Eugene Hedman

Donald Eugene Hedman

Donald DuBeau

Donald DuBeau

Longtime Muldown teachers Snipes, Dowaliby retire

After spending 30 years at her dream job teaching at Muldown Elementary School, Shelly Snipes is retiring this summer. Her passion for teaching is as deep as her family roots in Whitefish.

Proposed city budget shows additional property tax relief

The City of Whitefish's proposed budget for fiscal year 2023 reflects the region’s record growth by showing an increase in resort tax collection which results in additional property tax relief, while simultaneously making the hiring of staff in several departments a major issue for the city.

Wilde signs with University of Montana for track and field

Whitefish graduating senior Erin Wilde has always wanted to participate in college athletics and now she will get to see that through.

Kids summer sports camps at Whitefish High School

Whitefish High School is promoting four youth athletic camps this summer, several are hosted by Whitefish coaches.

Whitefish’s McCarthy competes in U18 hockey world championships

The 2022 IIHF Under-18 Women's World Championship is taking place from June 6 through June 13, in Madison, Wisconsin.

Tee to Green: Bulldog Open in July, new simulators in remodel plan

The traditional Father’s Day tournament to support Junior Golf and WHS Golf has found a new home in July again this year.

Glacier Twins split with Lakers A

The Glacier Twins split with the Kalispell Lakers A squad in Legion baseball last week, with a 9-0 shutout in the opener, but dropped the second game 7-6.

Glacier Park's road work begins, plows at Triple Arches

This summer promises to have plenty of road construction in and around Glacier National Park.

North Fork grizzly euthanized after frequenting residences

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks bear management specialists recently euthanized a grizzly bear that was frequenting residential properties in the North Fork area of the Flathead River. FWP reported that the grizzly was habituated to people.

Glass recycling event in Columbia Falls

Citizens for a Better Flathead has partnered with Flathead Recon, a Columbia Falls-based glass recycling operation, to put on a glass recycling event on Saturday, June 25.

Legals for June, 8 2022

U.S. House Montana District 1 - Primary Election roundup

Here is election coverage from the Daily Inter Lake, the sister paper of the Whitefish Pilot.

Boutique hotel plans emerge for downtown Whitefish

Another boutique hotel in downtown Whitefish is in the works.

Flathead County Commission candidates roundup

Candidates for the Flathead County Commission. This is a roundup of articles published by the Daily Inter Lake.

A place for all parties to talk climate change

After TV cameras were turned off at the District 1 Congressional Republican debate in Whitefish I had the opportunity to ask the candidates a question about climate change.

Residents push back against City’s plan for bear-proof trash cans

In response to the City of Whitefish’s newly signed contract with Republic Services to provide individual, bear-resistant trash containers and service them on the streets, residents penned 52 letters of opposition and several spoke out against the change at a recent meeting of the Whitefish City Council.

New colorful murals on City sidewalks carry vital message

Several city sidewalks in Whitefish were recently graced with artworks that are designed to make people take a second look and think about what is entering the storm drains.

Vote Repke for PSC 5

John Repke is the right choice for Public Service Commission (PSC) District 5.

Bulldog boys tennis State A tennis co-champions with Billings Central

The Whitefish boys tennis team earned a State A title last week — and they didn’t take the simplest path to get there either.

‘Whitefish School District Rocks!’ — a thank you to educators

Over the last few school years, public education was affected greatly by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Celebrate our youth

This past Friday and Saturday our family found ourselves cheering local Flathead athletes at the State A Track and Field Championships in Butte.

Repke is clearly strongest PSC candidate

When John Repke told me he was running for Public Service Commissioner, I immediately gave him my endorsement.

Sustainable growth requires reliable hydropower

When we’re floating and fishing on the stunning Three Forks of the Flathead River, we don’t always think about how our rivers are part of the Columbia River Basin’s headwaters. However, our waters flow from Northwest Montana all the way to the Pacific Ocean – about 700 miles from our backyards – and electricity flows back up to us from hydroelectric dams on those rivers.

Sun Road reservations required now through early September

Sun Road reservations required now through early September

Truck gets stuck in river at controversial Blankenship camp

Just days after a lawsuit was filed against the Forest Service over the allegedly out-of-control camp at the Blankenship Bridge, yet another vehicle, this time a pickup, got stuck in the adjacent stretch of the Flathead River.

Senior Emma Barron takes vast experience into future medical career

Throughout the last four years, Emma Barron could often be spotted at a sporting event cheering on the Bulldogs, on a soccer field or leading several student activities.

Whitefish senior Aaron Dicks revels in service and leadership

Senior Aaron Dicks enjoyed giving back to the community and serving in leadership positions during his years at Whitefish High School.

Glacier Twins sweep Lakers 4 in a row

The Glacier Twins went 4-0 on in a sweep of the Kalispell Lakers A and AA squads.

Photos: Whitefish Memorial Day celebrations

Whitefish Memorial Day celebrations

Planning Board recommends mixed-use development on Spokane Ave

An unusually shaped piece of property described as difficult is one step closer to being developed as a mixed-use building and park with a recommendation from the Whitefish Planning Board.

Walburn takes NAIA outdoor decathlon title

GULF SHORES, Ala. — Lee Walburn of Whitefish has doubled up as NAIA outdoor decathlon national champion, bringing home gold for Carroll College for a second time Thursday.

Tee to Green

While for the most part, the Golf Course has had a small turnover in staffing this season, there are some new faces, especially in the starter shack.

City Council preview for June 6

Whitefish City Council meets on Monday, June 6 beginning at 7:10 p.m. at City Hall.

Whitefish track and field teams top podium

After one day of competition, both the Whitefish boys and girls track teams were sitting in third place in the State A Track meet in Butte that ran from Friday to Saturday.

Steven V. Voigt

Steven V. Voigt

Looking Back for June 1

The Whitefish High School Girls’ track team emerged victorious from the State Track Meet in Billings and were the new State Class A Champions.

Larrye Bellah

Remembering Larrye Bellah

Police Calls: Up, up and away with some house wrap

She found a small black dog with a black and white face and is walking it on a leash, door to door, looking for the dog’s owner.

Whitefish girls tennis rallies through state tournament

Led by their top two singles players, the Lady Bulldogs fought through the State A Tennis Tournament in Bozeman on Thursday and Friday — playing a total of 19 matches.

Legals for June, 1 2022