Good morning, Kalispell.

Local fire agencies reported the Blue Spruce Fire ignited just north of Polson is believed to be human-caused — they ordered evacuations near Rocky Point and Masumola Roads while firefighters worked to contain the 6-acre blaze and set up a shelter at Linderman School gym.

One year ago, 33-year-old Emily Rea from West Glacier vanished from Hungry Horse Reservoir after a solo paddleboarding trip when her car was spotted at the Riverside Boat Launch yet her life jacket and cell phone were missing.

Her family and local authorities have searched with sonar and drones—efforts that have so far produced no answers as her mother gathers over 5,000 petition signatures seeking a deeper investigation.

Glacier Art Museum will present its 55th annual Arts in the Park festival at Depot Park in Kalispell from July 18th to July 20th.

The festival will feature 80 juried artist booths, plein air painters, live music starting at 11 a.m., food trucks and a beer & wine garden with $5 admission while community groups offer art and nature activities for families.

Firefighters battled a wildfire on Foys Bend Road south of Kalispell that broke out on July 9—multiple fire and police units were on the scene to secure the area.

Kalispell's longtime city manager Doug Russell will step down on August 20th to take a new job in Lakewood — his departure comes as the city faces an upcoming election that may bring a new mayor and shifts on City Council.

A T-bone crash in Colorado left a 4-year-old with surprise ambulance bills that burdened her family, and lawmakers are now examining new rules to lower out-of-network costs for ambulance rides.

In Montana, legislators considered setting ground ambulance reimbursements at 400% of Medicare rates—insurers warn this change may drive up premiums for everyone.

Today the Kalispell Planning Commission tabled a proposal for a seven-building apartment complex in South Kalispell after nearly 50 local residents raised concerns about traffic, neighborhood character, and wildlife habitat at a Tuesday public hearing.

Developer Roger Foley must address these issues before the proposal returns at Aug. 12 meeting—critics worry the plan may strain local roads and affect pedestrian safety.

Herron Half Marathon, 10K and 5K Trail Run

7-11 a.m. — Herron Park — Registration required — Experience scenic trails while supporting local trail building efforts in this annual community event.

Breakthrough Basketball Skills Camp

9 a.m. to 3 p.m. — Stillwater Christian School — Price info not provided — Enhance your basketball skills through high-intensity drills and fun competition.

Live Music with Zachary Christ

7-9 p.m. — Bias Brewing — No cover charge — Experience expressive vocals revitalizing 90's Alt Rock and modern Americana tunes.

Northern Rockies Chapter Banquet

5-10 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell — Community event — Celebrate conservation efforts and enjoy networking with local enthusiasts.