Good morning, Kalispell.

Crews on Wednesday fought a grass fire that started near Cobbler Village Terrace west of Kalispell and spread to hay bales, injuring one person who turned down medical transport and causing losses to farming equipment, two vehicles, and two stacks of hay over 1.9 acres with more than 40 firefighters and helicopters combating the blaze—no structures were damaged.

Kalispell man Daniel Alexander Ronshaugen (19) was accused of burglarizing a downtown building on Aug.

23 and agreed to pay restitution as part of a plea deal that led to the dismissal of his burglary charge after he faced a separate felony case.

Fire officials report that lightning fires have already begun and they urge people to be careful with campfires—especially with archery hunting starting on September 6 when fires must be completely put out.

They warn that the fire season will continue until a steady rain cools the area.

Kalispell residents who grow fruit risk attracting bears that can lead to dangerous encounters.

Montana Fish—Wildlife and Parks will accept fruit donations at its North Meridian Road office from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting the week of September 8 to help keep bears away and support the Grizzly and Wolf Discovery Center.

A wildfire known as the Hallowat Fire burned an estimated three acres between Whitefish and Polebridge near the Big Creek Drainage.

Discovered at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday — fire crews are monitoring its behavior as no structures or communities are threatened.

On Tuesday, Kalispell City Council rejected a proposed 99-unit apartment complex in South Kalispell but annexed the property and rezoned it for single-family and duplex use—citing traffic safety and wildlife habitat concerns.

The developer may now submit a subdivision proposal that fits the new zoning or withdraw from the project.

The Flathead County Board of Commissioners approved a $142 million budget for FY26 on Tuesday that cuts property taxes by lowering the levy from 107.63 mills to 102.62 mills and allocates funds for capital projects such as a new public safety facility, landfill expansion and fairgrounds improvements — the plan will cover a $12 million shortfall with reserve savings and include a 2.5% wage adjustment for 567 employees.

The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce endorsed Kisa Davison for mayor and Kyle Waterman for Ward 3 council in the November municipal election—marking the first time its members have voted to endorse local candidates and support pro-business leadership for a fresh approach to city management.

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.

Whose Live Anyway?

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — All ages welcome — Experience a night of hilarious improvised comedy and song driven by audience suggestions.

Pinky and the Floyd: 50th Anniversary of 'Wish You Were Here'

7:30-9 p.m. — Wachholz College Center — Tickets required — Celebrate the poignant 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd's timeless album with heartfelt performances honoring their legacy.

Iron Legion Fitness Expo

9 AM – 3 PM — Flathead County Fairgrounds — Entry fee varies — Energize yourself at Montana's fastest growing fitness expo with competitions, vendor showcases, and health challenges.