LOCAL ROUNDUP: ACT for America leader will explain progress

Kelly Cook, ACT for America’s field director, will be the guest speaker at the organization’s next meeting from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 7, at Sykes’ in Kalispell.

Cook’s topic is “Our Victories and Upcoming Initiatives ... How ACT for America is Scaling to Become the NRA of the National Security Movement.”

Cook oversees the state legislative agenda that has helped pass more than 43 state laws.

The group will also share the progress it is making with local legislators and how it is gearing up for the 2017 legislative session, its plans to get a foot in the local churches, “Truth in Textbooks” and the plan to become active in local schools.

To confirm your attendance, email 59911actforamerica@gmail.com.

For further information, visit http://actflatheadcounty.wix.com/montana.

Guided hike explores Cabinets

The Montana Wilderness Association is sponsoring a guided hike Saturday, July 9, in the Southern Cabinet Mountain Wilderness with a chance to fish in turquoise alpine lakes.

Depending on group dynamics, this hike leaves options open such as lower lake fishing for rainbow and westslope cutthroat trout.

Other options include a push up to the upper lakes with scenic views and/or a scramble up to Lost Buck Pass with stunning views of both east and west Cabinets. There is a good potential for viewing mountain goats, bears, bighorn sheep and birds of prey. The hike is about 8 miles round trip, with a 2,200-foot elevation gain.

Come prepared for a full-day hike with plenty of water, fishing gear and lunch. This is a free, guided hike. Participants will meet at 8 a.m. at the Kootenai Forest Supervisor’s Office at 31374 U.S 2 W., in Libby. The hike is moderately strenuous, with a comfortable pace and will wrap up around 5 p.m.

To register, go to wildmontana.org and go to Flathead - Kootenai Chapter Wilderness Walks and follow the easy to read instructions or call Brian at 406-291-2154. There are a few slots left for this trip.