Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 7th of May.
Good morning, Kalispell.
Tuesday night, the Flathead County Sheriff's Office and the regional SWAT team raided a home in Hungry Horse to target Michael Downing's burglary ring—over 15 break-ins since October have been linked to the group and have caused nearly $1 million in losses.
StoryCorps Mobile Tour will visit Kalispell from May 30 to June 26 — partnering with Montana Public Radio to record local stories — and will offer free sessions to capture community voices.
A public listening event is set for June 23 at Wachholz College Center, and reservations open at 10 a.m. on May 10.
Bigfork High School band ended the school year with a win in an Idaho jazz competition and with students attending the state music festival—director Brian Phillips said the group celebrated community support at local events and will raise funds for a New York City trip next year.
City officials in Whitefish defended local immigration enforcement policies after the April 24 arrest of Venezuelan man Beker Rengifo-Del Castillo, who was detained following a traffic stop that led to federal intervention—councilors and police are now reviewing how the call to Border Patrol was made and clarifying local law enforcement roles. The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol stressed that their actions were in line with federal law and agency protocols.
The Flathead National Forest is asking for public input on the Blacktail Flathead Electric Cooperative Powerline Corridor Project along Blacktail Road in Lakeside, which will treat hazardous fuels on 364 acres to reduce wildfire risks + strengthen community infrastructure protection. Comments must be submitted by email by May 23 to ensure they are included in the public record.
Kalispell City Council will seek a $25 million grant for a redesigned Main Street—Governor Gianforte signed Bobby’s Law to impose tougher drunk driving penalties, and Deer Park School has proposed a $4 million bond for a new building.
Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte signed several bills last week that change how agencies review environmental projects—these laws come after a state Supreme Court ruling noted the old law did not consider climate impacts.
The new measures also set clear rules for greenhouse gas analyses and air quality standards for future projects.
Montana senators back a bill that will expand federal funds for public land maintenance by increasing annual Legacy Restoration Fund allocations to $2 billion through 2033; the America the Beautiful Act aims to fix a $40 billion repair backlog on public lands — Sen. Steve Daines introduced the measure with bipartisan lawmakers and local groups like the Kalispell Chamber have shown support for more maintenance work.
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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
Stay in the know, Kalispell.
Free, always. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.