Good morning, Kalispell.

A 46-year-old Hungry Horse man, Michael Ray Downing, was arrested May 6 on pending felony charges for burglary and tampering with a witness after a months-long investigation by the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office — authorities link him to over 15 burglaries causing nearly $1 million in damages.

Flathead County voters held school elections on Tuesday and approved the Kalispell high school levy with 55.57% yes votes, bringing an extra $2.9 million to save over 100 course offerings+more than 20 teaching jobs, while Whitefish and Columbia Falls also cast ballots on other measures. Results will become official after they are canvassed by the school board.

The Family Forestry Expo offers hands-on forest learning for local fifth graders from May 5 to May 10—featuring tours of mills, portable sawmill demonstrations, and curriculum-based field stations across the valley.

Families will join a special day on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Trumbull Creek Educational Forest—where educational walks, logging demonstrations, and a free camp lunch from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. are planned.

Sapphire Construction Services in Kalispell will start work on a water main tap and service crossing on Rail Park Drive (planned to connect sewer lines) on Monday, May 12 at 8 a.m. which will close the entire road; detour access is provided at nearby CHS and Flathead Drive (the work is expected to finish Tuesday, May 13 at 5 p.m.).

Kalispell Councilor Ryan Hunter announced his run for mayor in the fall municipal election and has served Ward 3 since 2020.

He said he will address housing, development that protects our environment, and efficient use of taxpayer funds—drawing on his background in urban planning.

At Spring Mack Days on Flathead Lake, ten anglers turned in their 100 fish limits on May 1 and contributed to 2,544 trout entries—making it the second highest single-day count as local competitors Kolton Turner, Jason Mahlen, and Bob Turner led the event.

The tournament will end on Saturday, May 10 with entries due by 3 p.m. at Blue Bay while conservation efforts aim to reduce non-native lake trout.

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.