The owners of Sweet Peaks Ice Cream have dropped plans to construct a manufacturing facility and retail store on U.S. 93 in Whitefish.

The Whitefish-based company had planned the facility for the former Dos Amigos restaurant and Best Bet Casino, but recently pulled its application with the city of Whitefish.

Marissa Keenan, owner of Sweet Peaks, said the scope of the project was very expansive and financial deadlines just did not line up to make the project viable at this point.

“The uncertainty facing so many of us in hospitality due to COVID-19 caused us to pause and reorganize our long-term and short-term expansion goals,” she told the Pilot.

Sweet Peaks had extensive plans to remodel the building and facade, providing indoor and outdoor seating for ice cream patrons, along with room for manufacturing. The plan received a positive recommendation from the Planning Board in June.

“We are sad to have to pass on the opportunity on this amazing property,” Keenan said. “However, there will be other options for Sweet Peaks that fit our needs and will keep us in the community.”

The popular ice cream business was founded in 2010 by Keenan and Sam Dauenhauer beginning with a shop in downtown Whitefish.

Sweet Peaks shops are now also located in Kalispell, Missoula, Bozeman, and Spokane, Washington, along with seasonal locations.

— Whitefish Pilot

Out-of-state speeders on Interstate 90 keep things hopping at the Mineral County Justice Court.

Along with the usual misdemeanors are a whole bunch of speeding tickets issued to motorists from Washington, Idaho and Oregon along 77-mile stretch of the I-90 corridor that passes through Mineral County.

“That’s where a large percentage of the people come from, with many still thinking Montana doesn’t have a speed limit. Or it’s $5 you can pay on the spot and keep moving,” said Kim Taron, Mineral County Justice Court Clerk.

Those days are long gone, so it’s wishful thinking on anyone entering Big Sky Country. The fines are considerably less compared to other states and Montana fines are state-regulated, so each county has the same financial sting.

Justice Court Clerk Wendie Richards said “You can post bond with the law enforcement officer that tickets you on the scene and if you elect not to contest it, the check is cashed two weeks later and everyone is square. If you feel you need to visit with Justice of the Peace Dale Magone, then an appointment is needed for a hearing.”

The cost of speeding on the interstate? If you are going 1-10 mph over the posted speed limit, $40; 11-20 mph is $70; 21-30 mph stings a bit more at $120.

For 31 mph and over it’s a $200 fine. Remember that in work zones, the fines double.

Out of those penalties, 50% goes to the general fund in Helena and 50% to the general fund for Mineral County.

Compare this with the state of Washington: 11 to 15 mph over the speed limit — $169; 16 to 20 mph over the speed limit — $210. 21 to 25 mph over the speed limit — $262. 26 to 30 mph over the speed limit - $313.

— Mineral Independent

The Columbia Falls Lions Club is having a back-to-school bash, on Aug 12, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., at Marantette Park. This event has been approved by the city and Flathead County Public Health Department. Social distancing and wearing masks are required at this event.

Lions members will be handing out free school supplies to families that need them. Hot dogs, chips, cookies, and water bottles will be provided at no charge, but there will be a donation jar at the food site.

Local businesses and kid-oriented organizations will be present. The fire department and police department will attend and provide kid-friendly information. Masks will be provided at the gate if somebody forgets theirs. And hand sanitizer will be available throughout the event. If a business or organization would like to attend, please contact Kelly Hamilton at 406-471-9299 or at kmdhamilton@yahoo.com.

— Hungry Horse News

Polson schools’ popular summer meal distribution program was temporarily suspended at the end of July when one food service worker tested positive for COVID-19.

The district released a statement saying they had notified Lake County Health Department and were following their guidance in responding to this incident. The food worker has been isolated, and contact tracing is ongoing.

“All food preparation staff wear masks and gloves, and we do not believe that anyone who received and/or consumed food products prepared by this worker is at an increased risk of exposure to COVID-19,” the statement said. “There is no evidence that food or food packaging is associated with the transmission of COVID-19 regardless of the status of the worker.”

The program was initially expected to start back up on Aug. 11, but Food Service Director Lori Miller said they now intend to start back on Aug. 10.

Miller said that the program served 700 to 800 meals per day when the program began March 16. Though the need has reduced as the summer progressed, they still serve around 325 meals per day. This includes sack lunches and breakfasts for the next day, The meals are picked up at Cherry Valley and Linderman Elementary schools as well as delivered to Elmo, Trout Lake, Big Arm, Dayton and Valley View.

— Lake County Leader