Good morning, Kalispell.

Weyerhaeuser awarded 31 grants totaling $111,500 this year to nonprofits, community groups, and schools in Kalispell, Columbia Falls, Whitefish, and rural Montana — matching local needs.

The company will start accepting applications for 2026 grants on Feb. 1.

After a fire destroyed three trolleys, a local family bought the six remaining ones so Montana Trolley Company can keep its Christmas light tours this holiday season.

Neighbors take evening rides to enjoy festive lights and family time (reservations available online).

St. Charles Borromeo Catholic Church (on Baker Ave) in Whitefish is undergoing a major renovation that adds a new symmetrical ceiling, insulation, lighting and reconditioned pews for its 268 families, with work expected to finish in time for Christmas mass.

Lakeside resident Micah Riendeau transforms into Silver Belle for the annual Journey to the North Pole cruises on Lake Coeur d'Alene, delighting children with magical stories and festive lights.

She also released an interactive book, Silver Belle and the Christmas Cookie Caper, available at The Bookshelf in Kalispell (and Well-Read Moose).

United Airlines is expanding winter flights at Glacier Park International Airport from Dec.

18 through April 5 to support tourism as hotel bookings in Flathead Valley outpace last year’s levels, while ski areas like Whitefish Mountain Resort prepare for a busy holiday week (Commerce Department cited strong quarterly growth).

On Dec. 20, the Montana Youth Challenge Academy graduated 103 cadets at the University of Montana Western campus; the 22-week program earned graduates diplomas, certificates, and scholarship opportunities while they completed 6,119 hours of community service statewide (including Kalispell's Josephine Olszewski).

After a rock blast caused a landslide that sent boulders onto Whitefish Lake’s shoreline in May 2024, builder Walt Landi worked with state and county agencies to complete remediation.

County planners continue actively monitoring the site—while debates over jurisdiction and environmental safeguards raise concerns for the lake’s long-term health.

Habitat for Humanity of Flathead Valley is accepting applications until Feb.

3 for six affordable, energy-efficient single-story homes on donated city land in Columbia Falls—construction will begin in spring to create permanently affordable housing through the Northwest Montana Community Land Trust.

New Year's Eve Dueling Pianos

6:30 PM - 12:30 AM — Hilton Garden Inn Kalispell — Dinner included — Experience an interactive night of music where two pianists compete and collaborate for your requests while you celebrate the New Year.

Dirty Dancing in Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Trades Institute — Ticket prices vary — Experience the iconic film accompanied by a live band performing all your favorite songs.