Council is right
In my opinion the Whitefish mayor and city councilors made the proper decision when they voted to use tax-increment financing (TIF) money to fund the construction of the Emergency Service Center, instead of using this money to fund the building of a three-story parking structure. The emergency center will house the fire and police departments and a new jail.
The council is looking to provide additional parking lots within walking distance of downtown at a lot less cost than the parking structure.
Jack Fletcher
Whitefish
Food Bank helps
I've been living in White-fish for about two years now. I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude to North Valley Food Bank as well as the other food banks in the valley. It's such a relief to know that there are people out there willing to help in any way they can.
We have two adults and one child in our household, and we both work. However, with bills and utilities, it's very hard to keep up with the daily needs. Thanks to the food bank, we are able to keep food in our tummies and in our cupboards.
They are also amazing during the holidays. They really make you feel special and help many families enjoy a warm plentiful holiday meal. They are always welcoming with smiles and great attitudes. They are more than willing to help you, and often offer to walk your groceries to your car. They are great with children, and I've noticed that they also offer school supplies when they have them.
It's people like these, who work for organizations helping the public, that are blessed and blessing us every day. Your generosity has not gone unnoticed. You're God's angels.
Thank you for watching over us.
Bryanne Hinsz
Whitefish
Bike trail kudos
Kudos to Whitefish for the new bike trail. The beautiful trail is already active each day with walkers and bicyclists and affords a great opportunity for safe, outdoor recreation along busy Wisconsin Avenue.
In the interest of safety, drivers will need to use extra caution and observe the crosswalk zones. My friend Robert, who uses a wheelchair, told me that he frequently sits on the side of the road at crosswalks around town, patiently waiting for cars to allow him to cross, while drivers ignore him.
The crossing in front of The Lodge at Whitefish Lake is a particularly hazardous spot, and with the completion of the bike path, several new crosswalks have been added along Wisconsin Avenue.
Drivers, please, please slow down and watch out for people at the crosswalks around town. Show that Whitefish is the kind of town that cherishes the outdoor opportunities our area affords in a safe environment with a courteous attitude.
Lee Minton
Whitefish
Defensive driving
This is to the man who, because I have out-of-state plates, deliberately pulled out to cut me off, then thumbed his nose as I drove past. Shame on you, sir.
I grew up in Whitefish and am somewhat appalled at all the changes taking place myself, but never would I take it upon myself to show disrespect for another human being like you did.
We are both lucky that traffic was not heavy enough for my defensive-driving moves to cause any harm.
I'm sure that this will not mean much to you, but it has certainly made me feel better.
I hope in the future, you will put aside your prejudices and treat your fellow motorists more respectfully.
Susi Kohler Eckhardt
Port Orford, Ore.
Karate family
We are the Rices and we have been foster parents here in the Flathead for more than 10 years. My husband and I have adopted four of our foster children. Our children are 12, 9, 6 and 4 years old. We have had a lot of children in and out of our home. We loved being foster parents, but we thought that four were enough for us.
Adopting children that have been in foster care comes with its own problems. Most children that have been in foster care have had some type of loss and/or trauma in their life. Mine are no different — they all have been though some abuse.
In the past two years, our whole family has been taking karate lessons at American Karate Academy with Jeff and Janie Green. A few weeks ago, our school cleaned up the downtown area in an effort to help keep Whitefish clean and to heighten awareness to the scholarship program at American Karate Academy.
We are one of those families that benefit from that program. I just can't say enough about the Greens. Their willingness to work with kids with special needs like mine is commendable. Their philosophy not only teaches great karate but also empowers them and teaches self-worth, discipline and control.
The Greens have made a huge impact in our everyday life and in our children. We would like to thank them for all that they have done for our family and the scholarship program, because without it, we would truly be missing out on their wonderful teachings.
For those of you who would like to help enrich a child or family life, you can call Jeff and Janie Green at American Karate Academy 862-7722.
Brandon and Robin Rice
Whitefish
Fresh air
Regarding the Aug. 28th article, "The common sense candidate," what a breath of fresh air — a candidate who truly is experienced on the issues, especially education, and who believes that the doughnut rule is unrepresentative and un-American for the people of Whitefish.
John Fuller will serve all citizens of House District 4, not just the special interests or Whitefish City Council.
I strongly encourage voters to send him to the Legislature in Helena, where I'm sure he will ably and responsibly represent the people of Whitefish.
Daniel Fey
Whitefish