Happy Friday, Beacon readers! Another work week is coming to a close with a beautiful, sun-filled day. Lauren Frick here, and I could definitely get used to this. The sun is a welcome sight after a week spent sitting in council chambers for important city government meetings up here in the north part of the valley. For today’s Roundup, however, I’m going to take a little breather from the zoning, subdivisions and growth policies of it all and give you some ideas for your weekend plans (aside from being outside and enjoying the amazing weather).
For those of you still in search of Saturday night plans, Good Luck Gallery will be opening a solo exhibition of new drawings and paintings by Bruna Massadas, a Brazilian born artist now living and working in Bozeman.
Opening in Kalispell, Little Sky features intimate works that explore light, reflection and memory through recurring depictions of the sun mirrored in water. The exhibition is on view through June 5, with an artist reception tomorrow, May 9, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Originating from a vivid childhood dream of two suns setting over a lake, Massadas’ work distills landscape into elemental forms — sun, water and light— creating a quiet yet expansive meditation on place. This new body of work subtly echoes Montana’s vast terrain while remaining rooted in personal memory and perception.
Massadas’ work has been widely exhibited across the United States. Recent presentations include exhibitions with The Pit, Bozomag, My Pet Ram, and Gallery 16. In 2025, she was awarded a Creative West Grant and presented solo exhibitions at de boer Gallery in Los Angeles and McClain Gallery in Houston.
If you’re still in search of plans for tonight (and if puppets are your thing), the Whitefish Theatre Company will be presenting their final installment of their 2025-2026 Music Series with a one-night-only performance of “Michael Harrison Presents: Ventastic.”
The 90-minute, family friendly variety show will take place tonight, May 8, at 7:30 p.m. at the O’Shaughnessy Center, 1 Central Ave., in Whitefish.
Michael Harrison is a ventriloquist, comedian, and master showman who has been entertaining audiences around the world for more than 30 years. With original puppets and one-of-a-kind routines, Harrison blends ventriloquism, stand-up comedy, magic, and variety theater into an unforgettable live experience. A finalist on “America’s Got Talent” and a headliner for Disney Cruise Lines, Harrison turns ventriloquism upside down, reimagining this classic art form for a new generation.
Tickets are $30 for adults and $20 for students with reserved seating. Tickets can be purchased at the box office at the theater, or by calling 406-862-5371. The box office will be opened one hour before the performance. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.whitefishtheatreco.org.
Now if you’d just let me pull your strings a little bit more and get you to read the rest of today’s Daily Roundup, I’ll let you get to your weekend.
Columbia Falls Planning Commission Approves 421-Unit Residential Development on Former Aluminum Company Land
The unanimous decision was made following outcry from roughly 20 residents who spoke against the project, which still must go to city council for a final decision.
Missing Glacier National Park Hiker Killed in Apparent Bear Attack
An investigation is underway into the death of Anthony Pollio, a 33-year-old Florida man reported missing earlier this week in the Mount Brown Lookout area. The last fatal bear attack in Glacier Park occurred in 1998.
From Runway Rehab to a New Jail, Local Infrastructure Projects Take Off Across the Flathead Valley
In a roundup of structural improvements including new wastewater systems and a public safety facility, local municipal leaders said new and upgraded infrastructure is necessary to keep pace with future growth
Law Enforcement Describes Response to Scene of Alleged Homicide
During the fourth day of the trial against Jeffrey Scott Serio, Flathead County Sheriff’s Office deputies described their initial encounter with the defendant before the victim was pronounced dead at the scene
WCC Film Series is proud to present a special two-night Filmmaker Spotlight celebrating the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock. Each night will feature a curated episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents, followed by a full-length feature film. In true Hitchcock fashion, the featured films will remain a secret until the moment they begin, adding an extra layer of anticipation and surprise for attendees. The selected episode of Alfred Hitchcock Presents will serve as the final clue to the evening’s feature presentation, giving audiences a chance to speculate and engage before the big reveal on screen.
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