Good morning, Kalispell.

The Northwest Montana fair will host a mud bogging event that will draw competitors from local areas and beyond—racing a tough mud course to be the first to finish.

A member from Eureka Dune Runners said the event will test drivers' skill and vehicle performance as they compete for the win.

Mission Valley communities are seeking answers after Arlee Rehabilitation Center (ARC) abruptly suspended operations on July 1 when its Board of Directors voted to dissolve the nonprofit with little explanation.

Volunteers and local animal shelters worry that the closure may lead to a rise in stray animals and say they are waiting for the board to announce a plan for dissolution and funding allocation in the coming weeks.

Bill and Barbara Wetzel expanded Bar W Ranch by acquiring Whitefish Outfitters & Tours and Great Northern Powder Guides to add year-round outdoor and winter sports experiences for visitors.

They plan to integrate seasonal events and community projects to fill off-season gaps and bolster local ties.

Carl’s Hand Dipped Corn Dogs won best food at the Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo for their fried Oreos as judges including Chef Josh Rutherford and Culinary Institute students praised the treat’s flavor and batter mix—Sweet Pickin’s kettle corn finished second while D&T BBQ took third.

The 2025 Northwest Montana Fair and Rodeo is underway at the Flathead County Fairgrounds until Aug.

17th, where fairgoers view hundreds of exhibits and see winners receive ribbons in events such as 4-H/FFA dog competitions, fine arts, crafts, showmanship, and agriculture—many of which feature local competitors from Kalispell.

Lincoln County commissioners’ petition to ease selenium standards in Lake Koocanusa met resistance at a Montana Department of Environmental Quality public meeting on August 13—about a dozen local environmental experts and fishing guides opposed raising the limit from 0.8 to 1.5 micrograms per liter while Commissioner Noel Duram supported the change for economic development.

The Flathead County Planning Board recommended a 1,700-acre luxury resort near Lakeside in a 5—1 vote on Wednesday, with Discovery Land Company planning amenities such as two golf courses, a spa, and 359 residential lots.

The proposal will be reviewed by county commissioners on August 21 at 9 a.m., with public comments beginning at 8:45 a.m. in Kalispell.

Montanans with marketplace health plans will pay around 75% more next year as enhanced federal tax credits end and insurers request steep increases—BlueCross BlueShield is asking for a 28% rise and Montana Health Cooperative seeks a 25% boost, which could leave 15,000 people without insurance. Insurers warn that a sicker risk pool may cause further premium hikes.

The Flathead County Planning Board recommended the Flathead Lake Club proposal — a luxury private golf club with a 359-unit single-family home subdivision — to county commissioners at its Aug.

13 meeting. The commissioners will vote on the project’s preliminary plat on Aug. 21 at 9 a.m. for the 1,700-acre site west of U.S. Highway 93 in Lakeside.

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.

America's Diamond - Neil Diamond Tribute

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — $38.50 to $71.50 — Celebrate iconic hits from Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand with stellar performances by Jay White and Sharon Owens.