Good morning, Kalispell.

Swan Lake, a town with under 250 residents, is set to host its annual 44th Huckleberry Festival today featuring a pancake breakfast, live entertainment, raffles, a baking competition and creative vendor offerings—this event raises funds for the Chamber of Commerce clubhouse.

A small plane crashed on the runway and collided with a stationary aircraft at Kalispell City Airport Monday, August 11th, causing a fire that spread to a grassy area and led to two victims receiving minor treatment while four passengers evacuated safely — local fire, police and other crews responded and the FAA is now overseeing the investigation.

Kalispell police and fire department confirmed that a plane crashed at Kalispell City Airport (1880 Highway 93 South) Monday afternoon with no fatalities while emergency personnel contained the fire and officials warned not to confuse the site with Glacier Park International Airport.

At the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo, young competitors showcased their pigs at the Trade Center at the Flathead County Fairgrounds on Monday.

The event drew a large crowd and taught local youths important skills in animal care and training * a display of hard work and community spirit.

Today, the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo opens at the Flathead County Fairgrounds with Joan Jett — the Blackhearts set to perform at 8:15 p.m., and the fair will feature events such as a reptile show, PRCA rodeo and a mud bog race running through Sunday.

Flathead County commissioners confirmed that Austin Hicks, the current animal shelter head, will be the new Emergency Communications Center director starting Aug.

18. He said his first step is to review dispatcher hiring processes to improve recruitment—while he works with fire, police and EMS teams.

Jordan Williams, a Jefferson County resident, filed a lawsuit in Lewis and Clark County District Court against Gov. Gianforte for appointing former legislator Marta Bertoglio as Commerce Director after she resigned her House seat.

The suit claims the appointment violates the state constitution’s disqualification provision—Gov. Gianforte’s counsel said state civil office positions are independent—and the legal challenge remains unresolved.

Samson Naldrett, now manager at the Alano Club, turned his life around after years of struggling with addiction and now leads programs that help over 1,400 people every week.

The club is joining the Great Fish Community Challenge today to raise funds for an expansion that will allow it to serve more people—local support is key to its growth.

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.