Good morning, Kalispell.

Kalispell’s 130-year-old building on Fifth Avenue and Second Street West, once a Scandinavian Methodist Church and now a cherished thrift store, needs renovation to preserve its historic legacy—owner Sarah Harding has applied for a $50,000 state grant and will host fundraisers on May 18 to meet the required matching funds.

On Saturday, Whitefish Mountain hosted DREAM Adaptive's 6th annual Shred Fest fundraiser where skiers and snowboarders enjoyed a surprise spring snow day while raising over $85,000 to expand programs that remove barriers for people with disabilities.

The nonprofit plans to use the funds to grow adaptive sports services in the community—ensuring more local participants can benefit.

A 61-year-old man arrested during a 2023 standoff in an Aspen Court home received concurrent suspended five-year sentences for aggravated burglary and criminal possession of dangerous drugs on Jan 9—he pleaded guilty in November and was credited with seven days served.

Flathead County Animal Shelter became overwhelmed on March 13 when authorities seized 27 dogs from unsanitary conditions at a Coram property—55-year-old Candy Jean Evans was arrested for felony aggravated animal cruelty and staff reached out to other shelters for help.

On March 7, the House passed bills 756 and 757 to change criteria for state arts and cultural grants, favoring smaller groups over repeat applicants.

The House approved an amended list of Historic Preservation Grant winners on March 19—changes that have caused confusion among local arts nonprofits—and more reviews are ongoing.

The West Valley School Gummy Sharks robotics team is preparing for the FIRST World Championship in Houston on April 16 to 19 by practicing three times a week and raising about $5,000 for travel and lodging costs—science teacher Matt Honcoop said they are focused on the challenges ahead. They will compete in robot challenges and work on an Innovation Project while they also plan to tour the NASA Johnson Space Center—an opportunity that excites many team members.

The Flathead Conservation District and Friends of Montana Rivers and Streams filed an appeal with the Ninth Circuit Court, challenging the ruling that favored homeowners John and Stacy Ambler for a home built along McDonald Creek at Glacier National Park.

Opening briefs are due by May 28 and responses will be due by June 27, which may lead to a further review if federal law is found to apply.

Kalispell is working on its 2035 Land Use Plan to manage growth and improve traffic and infrastructure — city officials have gathered public feedback and will present a finalized draft to the city council by this summer.

Zen Den Wellness Spa in Lakeside began offering a head spa treatment on March 1 that uses scalp massage, exfoliating shampoo and a hair mask to boost hair health and is almost fully booked for the month.

Owner Annie Dillard—who left a 16-year ICU nursing career to focus on holistic care—designed the serene spa with herbal scents and handmade art to help clients relax.

Step Afrika!

7:00-9:30 p.m. | Wachholz College Center | $27-$40 | Experience the dynamic art of stepping blended with storytelling, humor, and audience participation.

Barrel Racing Jackpot

10 AM – 5 PM | Majestic Valley Arena | Ages 13+: $16, Children 6-12: $8 | Experience thrilling barrel racing as part of the Brash Winter Series Rodeo.

Grits and Glamour

7:30-11:30 p.m. | Wachholz College Center | Ticket info available | Enjoy an evening of entertainment at this local favorite venue in Kalispell.

Our Planet Live Speaker Series

7-8:30 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — $15-$40 — Experience immersive stories from the Emmy® Award-winning nature documentary team highlighting climate change and its impact on our planet.

Eagles Tribute Concert in Kalispell

7:30-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Ticket pricing varies — Experience the original Eagles tribute band Hotel California with their iconic sound and impressive performances.

Weekly Spring Sunday Services

11 a.m. — Old Apostolic Lutheran Church of Lakeside — Everyone is Welcome — Join for uplifting Sunday worship and Thursday evening Sunday School.

Breakthrough Basketball Shooting & Offensive Skills Camp

April 12-13 — Flathead High School — Registration required — Improve your shooting skills and build confidence with expert coaching and intensive drills.

Beethoven's Missa Solemnis Concert

3-5 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Tickets available — Experience the transcendent beauty of Beethoven’s choral-symphonic masterpiece performed by local chorale and orchestra.

Candlelight: Tribute to Queen

8:30-9:30 p.m. — Snowline Acres — Ticketed event — Experience the timeless music of Queen performed by a string quartet under candlelight.

Taste of Italy: Wine Dinner Experience

6:30-9 p.m. — Mercantile Steak — Check event page for pricing — Savor a luxurious six-course dinner paired with exquisite Italian wines in an unforgettable culinary experience.