Good morning, Kalispell.

Kalispell residents are gearing up for the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo—an event that promises to bring excitement to the community.

Volunteers from the Northwest Montana Lookout Association restored a run-down fire lookout built in 1929 on Northwest Peak, bringing supplies by helicopter and fixing windows, shutters, and warped walls—using creative fixes—to keep the building safe for winter.

The effort, which lasted for a week in July, may help the historic cabin serve as an emergency shelter for hikers.

The Northwest Montana Fair Parade took place on Aug.

8 on Main Street in Kalispell where local groups entertained families with floats, music, and candy toss. Photos (Casey Kreider/Daily Inter Lake) capture the festive moments (including a ride by children from the Discovery Developmental Center) during the event.

Sandy Evenson has led B&F Livestock for 45 years after starting in 4-H as a child on her family farm near Stillwater & now mentors youth at local fairs.

She believes stepping out of one's comfort zone helps build practical skills and compassion.

Local watchdog groups held a meeting last night at the Quick Response Unit building where environmental consultant Richard Hauer warned that a new sewage plan might raise chemical levels in Flathead Lake and noted that lawsuits were filed over a recent permit approval—raising concerns about public notices and traffic from a nearby luxury development. The Lakeside board will meet on Aug.21 at 2 p.m., and state road officials are reviewing a traffic study and asking for extra time to fix safety issues.

Flathead County will hold a public hearing on Aug.

13 at 6 p.m. to consider a proposal to split the 352-acre Lakeside Zoning District into separate residential and commercial zones—this change aims to clarify zoning rules that have confused homeowners, real estate agents, and planners for over a decade.

Kalispell ATA Martial Arts opened in March 2024 to teach physical and mental strength to all ages—owner Robert Armstrong, a fifth degree blackbelt with a long career in taekwondo and Marine Corps training, now offers a variety of classes and a starting special that includes four sessions and a free uniform for $30.

WCC Film Series: Heaven’s Gate

7-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Discounts available on tickets — Experience Montana's cinematic gems with a focus on films made in the Big Sky State.

Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo

7:30 p.m. — Flathead County Fairgrounds — VIP tickets available — Experience thrilling rodeo action and community spirit with premium seating options.

Great Bear Festival

3-8 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — $25 for adults, free for kids — Enjoy craft beverages, live music, and family-friendly activities at this local festival.

Keb' Mo' and Shawn Colvin Concert

7-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Tickets available — Experience an unforgettable evening with acclaimed singer-songwriters Keb' Mo' and Shawn Colvin performing together.

MBHA Barrel Racing

6-9 p.m. — Majestic Valley Arena — Competitive entry fees — Witness thrilling barrel racing action from top competitors in Northwest Montana.

September 6 Rodeo

6-9 p.m. — Brash Rodeo — Ticket prices vary — Experience the thrill of bull riding, bronc riding, and more at this legendary Montana rodeo event.