Bigfork's annual whitewater fest is this weekend

It's wet. It's wild.

The 31st annual Bigfork Whitewater Festival brings fast-paced fun to the Village by the Bay this weekend as kayakers make their way down the "Wild Mile" of the Swan River.

Slalom competition begins at 11 a.m. today, with an expert slalom run at 3 p.m.

Sunday events include a downriver race at 10 a.m. and a new "boater-cross" competition that pits three or four boats against one another in an obstacle course. "Boater-cross" replaces the whitewater rodeo.

Many Bigfork restaurants and bars stage entertainment throughout the weekend.

Call the Kalispell Athletic Club at 752-2880.

Alpine Artisans host art festival this weekend

The Alpine Artisans of Seeley Lake host their annual Loon and Fish Festival from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. today and Sunday at the Seeley Lake Community Hall.

Local artists will have their original works on display and for sale. Craft demonstrations, nature walks and lectures on outdoor topics also are planned. Today you can buy a bowl of soup and keep the handcrafted bowl.

The Alpine Artisans also will be selling their first cookbook, "Artisans in the Kitchen," during the festival. Copies will be available throughout the weekend at the community hall. Proceeds will benefit the group's efforts in preserving and promoting the arts in western Montana.

Medieval group hosts competition, campout today

The Society for Creative Anachronism's local group, Shire of Crystal Crags, is hosting its annual arts and science competition and campout today and Sunday at 1503 Holt Stage Road in Kalispell.

Enjoy the medieval atmosphere, mock combat fighting and equestrian battles. Events begin at 10 a.m. Children's activities also will be offered. Everyone is welcome to come in period costumes. The entrance fee is $5.

Recycle your old electronics today in Whitefish

Recycle your old miscellaneous electronics today at the CollEctronics event from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at The Wave's rear parking lot, 1250 Baker Ave., in Whitefish. Old computers, printers, scanners, typewriters, radios, cell phones, TVs, speakers and circuit boards will be accepted.

Trained technicians will be on hand to remove hazardous materials.

Owners are reminded that for privacy purposes they should clear out their hard drives before bringing them in.

Fees will be charged depending on the item. Call Susan Seaman at 250-6495.