Good morning, Kalispell.

School election ballots must be turned in by 8 p.m. May 6 to the Flathead County Election Department at 290 B N.

Main St. in Kalispell—voters will decide on a Deer Park School District bond for a new school building and trustee races, as well as on a Kalispell Public Schools levy that may increase taxes and lead to program cuts if it fails.

Kalispell residents will vote on a high school levy on May 6 to fund work-based learning programs—internships that allow students to gain hands-on experience with local businesses.

The levy is crucial as Kalispell Public Schools faces a nearly $3 million deficit that may force 36 layoffs and reduce opportunities for students like Flathead High School’s Jackson Heino.

Starting May 7, travelers at Glacier Park International Airport must show a government-issued REAL ID or passport to pass security checks; those without proper identification must arrive three hours early to complete additional verification.

Meanwhile, the airport continues its $150 million expansion—expected to be finished next year—to handle the rising number of passengers.

On April 24th, Border Patrol detained Kalispell resident Beker Enrique Rengifo del Castillo, 33, during a routine traffic stop in Whitefish and later sent him to an ICE facility in Tacoma, where he was released on April 30th.

Officials said the detention was legally justified while his attorney said she still did not know why he was taken into custody.

Rep. Courtenay Sprunger of Kalispell introduced a property tax relief bill called the Right Back Act that is projected to return an estimated 50 to 60 million dollars to taxpayers starting this fall and stabilize school funding by refunding excess dollars from the 95 school equalization mills. The bill builds on earlier measures to adjust funding for school transportation, county retirement, and tax base obligations (it passed the Senate by a vote of 46 to 4).

Montana lawmakers approved $124 million in state spending and up to $40 million in federal funds to upgrade the behavioral health system, adding new beds, a facility in eastern Montana, and revised commitment procedures to improve community services.

These changes aim to ease the long waitlists and gaps in care that have challenged families and patients.

An Evening with Dr. Abraham Verghese

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — First 500 tickets include a free paperback edition of 'The Covenant of Water' — Engage with a leading voice in healthcare and storytelling.

Mother's Day Flower Frame Craft Event

8 p.m. — Meadows Edge — Cost to be determined — Create a heartfelt flower frame as a special gift for Mom.

Champions of Magic Show

7:30-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Ticketed event — Experience an all-new thrilling magic show from the world-renowned Champions of Magic team.

Shrine Circus

2-4 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Affordable entry — Experience a delightful family-friendly circus with exciting performances under the big top.

The Rancher's Daughter Farmer's Market

5-8 p.m. — The Rancher's Daughter Kalispell — Free entry — Explore a vibrant summer market showcasing local vendors and fresh produce.

Kalispell Professional Bull Riding

7:30-10 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrilling action of professional bull riding in Kalispell.

Kalispell PBR Championship

7:30-10 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of bull riding with the world's toughest riders and elite bucking bulls.