The State of Montana has released addition information -- and clarification -- on which businesses can resume operation under Phase 1 of the governor's reopening plan, with specific focus on tourism and hospitality-oriented businesses.

     In addition to clarifying guidelines for the general public and all business operations, the Phase 1 Reopening FAQ has specific sections for those in the food & bev industry, personal care businesses, farmer's markets, wedding and reception venues, golf courses, fishing guides, outfitters and shops, outdoor recreation facilities and public/private campgrounds.

Out-of-state visitors still subject to quarantine

     Despite the fact that many tourism-oriented businesses and activities are allowed to resume operations, all visitors arriving from out-of-state are required to "self-quarantine" for 14-days.  That means they must stay within the property in which they are residing for a full two weeks, and may not leave that property for groceries, outdoor recreation, to go to work or any other activity.

     The quarantine order applies to all overnight lodging and campground facilities, both public and private.  Lodgers are required to notify travelers from another state (or country) of the mandatory quarantine order at the time a reservation is made, and again at the time of check-in.

      Please note:  The City of Whitefish's ban on non-essential overnight accommodation rentals remains in effect through May 10.  To view the full Coronavirus Phase 1 Reopening FAQ from the state's Emergency Operations Center,  CLICK HERE

     The Flathead City-County Health Department has created a number of tools to help local businesses get "back to business" safely, and comply with state and federal health guidelines.

     The County's  Business Planning Guide offers detailed recommendations that should be implemented by all businesses with regard to appropriate distancing, use of face masks, hand washing and sanitization stations, workspace cleaning/disinfection and pre-shift staff screening for COVID-19 symptoms.

Free COVID-19 screening tool ... and posters!

     To assist with the mandatory pre-shift screening of your employees, the county has created a free online "screening page" to quickly determine if your workers are (or have been) experiencing COVID symptoms.  The online process takes about two minutes, and concludes with the awarding of a date- and time-stamped "green check" to those who pass the screening and are cleared to work that day.   CLICK HERE to go to the COVID-19 Screening Page, and learn how you and your workers can use this free tool.

     Lastly (for now at least ... 'cuz you know this never ends!) the Health Department and City of Whitefish has a created a pair of posters suitable for display on your front door, window or countertop, reminding your customers to sanitize, socially distance and wear a mask in public. 

CLICK HERE to download the color poster shown above, or  HERE for the black-and-white version.

     We've weathered the storm (at least for now), and Whitefish is wasting no time getting back to business!

     Scores of local business owners -- and their crews -- were only too happy to leave the Stay At Home order behind this week, and start the process of reopening the Whitefish economy.   If you've got things revved-up and want to spread the word, email  [email protected]  and we'll git 'er done!  

Here are a few recent update from your fellow Chamber members ... so what're you waiting for?  Get out there and Shop the Fish!

     If you're anything like me, you've been amazed at the way our community has come together -- and supported one another -- during the COVID-19 crisis and the ensuing economic shutdown.  

     Hundreds of thousands of dollars have already been raised -- and spent -- to support locals in need of food, shelter and other types of assistance.  But the need is still there ... and the coffers of our many local non-profit organizations are starting to run empty.

     As always, the Whitefish Community Foundation is leading the charge to support local non-profits, and has organized a "Day of Giving & Unity" for next Tuesday -- May 5 -- to support the many non-profits that feed, house, educate, enrich and nurture our neighbors and friends in this time of need.

     "The need is great" said WCF President Linda Engh-Grady, "but we are seeing people perform countless acts of kindness to help others.  There has never been a better time to rally around our nonprofits and raise crucial program funding."

     To make a donation or for more information -- including a list of the 60+ local non-profits that will benefit from your generosity -- visit  www.whitefishcommunityfoundation.org.