Serving Southern Jefferson County in the Great State of Montana

Frontier Days officials discuss 2020 event

Last week, as a part of ongoing community involvement efforts, the Whitehall Chamber of Commerce put out a survey to businesses and community members alike. Many entities have been working hard to ensure that Whitehall Frontier Days 2020 can happen in a safe and healthy manner. The survey requested input from the community about what events they would like to see in 2020.

Through the survey, ongoing discussions amongst the board and with member businesses it was decided that Frontier Days 2020 will happen. It will look different than in years past, however. In collaboration with the Jefferson County Health Board, the Chamber will be releasing more guidelines in the coming weeks. The Chamber will be asking everyone to social distance and when they can and to consider wearing a mask. The Chamber will be enhancing cleaning and sanitation at events and asks that partner entities who sponsor events as well as the general public to do the same. We are Montanans and we can do this successfully, but it will take efforts on behalf of each and every one of us.

As the process moves forward and information is finalized it will be released. You will see social distancing promotion with each release. It is the duty of each individual to consider their part in making this a safe and healthy event for all. Whitehall has the opportunity to be a leader in demonstrating the new normal. As one of the first communities to hold a large-scale event, there is a lot of pressure for positive outcomes. As a community, lets join together and show Montana what we are made of!

Current announcements include some cancellations. Certain events seem difficult to social distance at, have at-risk populations as the main participants or require more than sponsoring groups are able to commit to at this time. We hope to see all of these events come back in 2021 and ask that you continue to support everyone who has to make these difficult decisions. Currently, Rocky Mountain Bank BBQ on Friday is cancelled. The Whitehall Chamber of Commerce/Golden Sunlight Mine BBQ will move to Friday in the early evening and will be followed immediately by BINGO. Friday is a great day to see the Vendors in the Park and visit your local businesses and support them. This will be a quiet and laid back day. Saturday will kick-off with the Fireman's breakfast. The Fireman will now be able to utilize the park area for seating as the Chamber/GSM BBQ moved. Horseshoes and Vendors will both be in the park and then we will see the parade happen and can again visit vendors, but the Jefferson Valley Art Show and the Rod Run are both cancelled. When you are done browsing the Vendors as need to beat the heat before you attend the Rodeo, stop in to one of our local businesses to cool off while you see the great things they have to offer!

As a final note, please consider giving 2-4 hours of your time over this weekend to ensure these events happen! This year will require more volunteers than ever to comply with the plans we have submitted to the Jefferson County Health Board. You can commit a small portion of your day and then enjoy the festivities with your friends and family. Masks and gloves will be available for all volunteers and will be required for certain duties at certain events.

The Whitehall Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors would like to thank our members, our community and our county for their support at this time. We are appreciative to live, work and play in a place so wonderful as Whitehall. We are fortunate to be able to bring portions of this annual event to you and appreciate that no one will take their personal commitment lightly.

 

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