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Entertainer Theater Architectural & Environmental Review

March 17, 2025 by admin

The Pearl Theater: Reviving a Ronan Landmark

Once the Entertainer Theater, this historic Main Street building now has new life as the Pearl Theater, home to the Western Montana Musician’s Cooperative.

Visit the WMMC Website

WHAT it is

The Pearl Theater is the new chapter for Ronan’s historic Entertainer Theater. After decades as a gathering spot for movies and community events, the building sat vacant for years. With support from the Montana Community Tourism Grant Pilot Program, the first step in its revival was a Preservation Architecture Report (PAR) — a detailed look at the building’s condition, historic value, and renovation potential.

HOW it works

The PAR examined the theater’s structure, identified needed repairs, and reviewed opportunities for modern accessibility while preserving its historic character. This work provided a roadmap for the building’s reuse.

Today, the Pearl Theater is operated by the Western Montana Musician’s Cooperative (WMMC), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting musicians of all ages and skill levels. The venue now hosts live performances, jam sessions, workshops, and cultural events, turning the space back into a hub for local creativity.

Frequently Asked questions

WHY it matters

Reviving the Pearl Theater protects a beloved piece of Ronan’s history while transforming it into a vibrant arts and events space. By preserving its character and giving it new purpose, the theater can once again be a place where the community gathers, celebrates, and creates together.

Preserves Local Heritage

The Pearl Theater keeps a piece of Ronan’s history alive while giving it a new purpose.

Supports the Arts

As WMMC’s home base, the theater provides a stage and resources for local and regional musicians.

Brings People Downtown

Events and performances draw audiences that help support nearby restaurants, shops, and services.

Creates a Cultural Hub

The theater offers a flexible space for concerts, theater, community gatherings, and workshops.

See Upcoming Shows

Get Involved

You have three simple ways to help shape this project, and every one of them counts. Add your ideas online, pinpoint spots on the map, or join us in person. However you choose to get involved, you will be helping make Ronan safer, easier to explore, and more connected.

  • Take the Walkability Survey to share your experiences and priorities
  • Use the Comment Map to pinpoint areas for improvement
  • Attend public meetings to help shape the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Join The Conversation

Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

Subscribe to get fresh updates on local projects, events, and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ll also send you subscriber-only content and opportunities to get involved.

Select list(s) to subscribe to


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Ronan Tourism. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Filed Under: Projects Tagged With: grant, projects

Walkability Study & Pathway Development (Phase 1)

March 17, 2025 by admin

Walkability Study & Pathway Development (Phase 1)

From new pathways to better lighting and a citywide transportation plan, this project is making it easier and safer to walk, bike, and roll through our community.

Take The Survey

WHAT it is

Mission West Community Development Partners and the City of Ronan are working together to improve active transportation in town. The work includes a new 3rd Avenue NW pathway, a lighting plan to make it safer after dark, and a Non-Motorized Transportation Plan to guide future investments in walking and biking infrastructure.

HOW it works

3rd Avenue Pathway Design: Plans for an 8-foot-wide, ADA-compliant asphalt path connecting schools, the Community Center, athletic fields, the Boys & Girls Club, and US Highway 93

Pathway Lighting Design: A full lighting system plan to improve visibility and safety in evening and early morning hours

Non-Motorized Transportation Plan: A community-driven plan that identifies gaps, priorities, and opportunities for sidewalks, trails, and bike routes across Ronan

Download The Plan

WHY it matters

This project is more than a quick fix. The designs and plans created now will guide future improvements for years to come, helping Ronan grow in a way that is safe, connected, and welcoming for everyone.

Safer travel for students, families, and visitors

Well-designed pathways and lighting reduce conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles. This means kids can get to school more safely, families can enjoy walking to local events, and visitors can explore with more confidence.

Easier connections between neighborhoods, schools, parks, and downtown

Linking key destinations with safe, continuous routes makes it simpler for everyone to get around without a car. Whether it’s walking to the fairgrounds, biking to the park, or heading downtown for a meal, travel becomes direct and pleasant.

More active lifestyles and healthy transportation options

When walking and biking are safe, people use them more often. This helps improve public health, encourages time outdoors, and creates more opportunities for neighbors to meet and connect.

A stronger, more connected community identity

Attractive, functional public spaces signal that Ronan invests in its people. These improvements make the town feel welcoming to both residents and visitors, reinforcing pride and a sense of belonging.

Share Your voice

Get Involved

You have three simple ways to help shape this project, and every one of them counts. Add your ideas online, pinpoint spots on the map, or join us in person. However you choose to get involved, you will be helping make Ronan safer, easier to explore, and more connected.

  • Take the Walkability Survey to share your experiences and priorities
  • Use the Comment Map to pinpoint areas for improvement
  • Attend public meetings to help shape the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Join The Conversation

Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

Subscribe to get fresh updates on local projects, events, and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ll also send you subscriber-only content and opportunities to get involved.

Select list(s) to subscribe to


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Ronan Tourism. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Filed Under: Projects Tagged With: grant, projects

Fairgrounds Infrastructure & Restroom Expansion

March 17, 2025 by admin

Fairgrounds Infrastructure & Restroom Expansion

Modern restrooms, improved utilities, and ADA accessibility will keep the Lake County Fairgrounds ready for bigger events and a stronger role in the community.

Share Your Feedback

WHAT it is

This project will modernize and expand the Lake County Fairgrounds, home to more than 70 annual events that bring thousands of visitors to Ronan. Improvements include larger, ADA-compliant restrooms, upgraded water, sewer, and electrical systems, and better accessibility so the fairgrounds can host bigger gatherings year-round.

HOW it works

The project expands restrooms in the Community Center and Horticulture Barn, upgrades sewer, water, and electrical systems, and adds ADA-compliant features. These changes will make the fairgrounds more comfortable, accessible, and ready for larger events.

Key elements include:

  • Modernized, expanded restrooms
  • Reliable utilities for vendors and events
  • Accessibility improvements for all visitors
Frequently Asked questions

WHY it matters

This project is more than a quick fix. The designs and plans created now will guide future improvements for years to come, helping Ronan grow in a way that is safe, connected, and welcoming for everyone.

Supports 70+ Annual Events

Upgrades will make it easier for the fairgrounds to handle larger crowds at signature events like Lights Under the Big Sky and the Chainsaw Rendezvous.

Improves Visitor Experience

Modern restrooms and reliable utilities make festivals, markets, and gatherings more comfortable and enjoyable for attendees.

Boosts Tourism and Local Economy

By attracting larger events, Ronan will see increased visitor spending, more overnight stays, and stronger business activity.

Strengthens Emergency Preparedness

As an official disaster reunification site, the fairgrounds will have the facilities to support community safety during emergencies.

Share Your voice

Get Involved

You have three simple ways to help shape this project, and every one of them counts. Add your ideas online, pinpoint spots on the map, or join us in person. However you choose to get involved, you will be helping make Ronan safer, easier to explore, and more connected.

  • Take the Walkability Survey to share your experiences and priorities
  • Use the Comment Map to pinpoint areas for improvement
  • Attend public meetings to help shape the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
Join The Conversation

Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

Subscribe to get fresh updates on local projects, events, and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ll also send you subscriber-only content and opportunities to get involved.

Select list(s) to subscribe to


By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Ronan Tourism. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

Filed Under: Projects Tagged With: grant, projects

Spring Creek Mural Project

March 17, 2025 by admin

Bringing Art, Culture, and History to Main Street

Large-scale murals will honor Salish and Kootenai heritage, energize downtown, and create a destination for locals and visitors.

Learn More About the Artists

WHAT it is

The Murals on Main Street project is a community-driven effort to add vibrant, culturally rich murals to Ronan’s downtown. Designed in collaboration with the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, these artworks tell stories through imagery, language, and design, creating an inviting streetscape that reflects the heart of our community.

HOW it works

Murals are placed in high-visibility spots along Main Street and in public gathering areas. The design process involves local artists, tribal representatives, and public feedback to ensure cultural accuracy and visual impact. The project also lays the foundation for a future walking tour that links the murals to local shops, restaurants, and landmarks.

Key elements include:

  • Artist and community collaboration on mural concepts
  • Public input on designs before installation
  • Strategic placement for maximum visibility and foot traffic
  • Opportunities for local and Native artists to lead the work
Frequently Asked questions

WHY it matters

This project is more than a quick fix. The designs and plans created now will guide future improvements for years to come, helping Ronan grow in a way that is safe, connected, and welcoming for everyone.

Engages the Community

From design to painting, the process involves artists, students, and residents, building pride and ownership in the final work.

Supports Future Projects

This is the first step toward a self-guided walking tour that will connect art, history, and local commerce.

Celebrates Indigenous Heritage

Murals honor Salish and Kootenai traditions, language, and history, making culture visible and accessible to all.

Revitalizes Downtown

Public art transforms Main Street into a destination, attracting both residents and visitors to spend more time in the area.

Share Your voice

Featured Completed Mural

Spring Creek Mural

In 2025, Ronan unveiled the Spring Creek Mural — a vibrant, large-scale work celebrating Native identity and heritage. This mural reflects the deep cultural roots of the community and serves as an anchor piece for future public art downtown.

Read More about it

About the Artists

Cheyenne Marcus

https://www.cheyennerenee.com/

The 50in50 Project is Cheyenne’s most recent adventure. A goal to paint a mural in 50 small towns across all 50 states by the end of 2025. Highlighting areas that value scenic beauty and small businesses. Creating a Documentary that highlights each community & the people that are doing amazing things for those around them. The main goal of the project is to take travelers off the beaten path, to create awareness for small town tourism, and to connect fifty communities to each other. Cheyenne believes art can be used as a tool to generate new perspectives. That a project like this can bring not only vibrancy to areas that are lacking in color, but it can also bring recognition to people that deserve it the most. Public Art can be used as a spotlight, shining on those who might otherwise be unseen just as it can be used as a megaphone, amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. Starting in her hometown of Covington, Virginia Cheyenne has traveled from coast-to-coast painting since April of 2022. Locations that have populations ranging from 200 to 60,000. Working with Nonprofit organizations & small businesses across the country to create artwork that represents those who view it the most. Each state being vastly different from the next.

    Aspen Decker

    https://xwlxwilt.com/

    Aspen Decker is an enrolled member of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (t̓at̓ʔayáqn, Ql̓ispè, & Ksanka) and a speaker of her tribal language, Nsélišcn ‘Salish language’. She graduated with a master’s degree in linguistics from the University of Montana in 2021. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Tribal Historic Preservation from Salish Kootenai College in 2018. She has a Montana Class 7 Native American Language and Culture Educator License and has taught Salish for 10 years. Her passion for Salish language began as a child, learning from her elders, primarily, Patlik Pierre. Who taught her about the importance of perpetuating Salish language and culture. Raising her children in the language as first language Salish speakers has been one of the ways that she honors their teachings.
    Aspen owns Xʷlxʷilt ‘Alive and Well’ a company dedicated to supporting Aspen’s language revitalization and cultural preservation through education, art, and consulting. The company is committed to developing and providing genuine Indigenous education, contributing to the promotion of diversity and Native voice within Western systems.


    Artist Statement:
    Ancestral Indigenous knowledge and language are at the heart of my work. As a Salish speaker and storyteller, I create ledger art on antique maps that reflect Sqelixʷ ‘Indigenous’ ways of knowing and emphasize cultural preservation, language revitalization, storytelling, and Plains Indian Sign Language.

      Cameron Decker

      https://xwlxwilt.com/

      Cameron Decker is Diné (Navajo) and a descendant of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. He is an artist and educator working in printmaking, painting, drawing, digital art, and public arts. Cameron holds a B.A. in Art History from the University of New Mexico and an M.A. in Fine Arts through the Creative Pulse program at the University of Montana. He served as faculty and Chair of the Fine Arts Department at Salish Kootenai College and was formerly the Educator and Outreach Coordinator at the Missoula Art Museum. Cameron creates his own natural pigments and charcoals for painting and drawing. His public artworks are installed throughout schools and parks on the Flathead Reservation.


      Artist Statement:
      My art practice is guided by intuition, memory, and connection to place. I work with natural materials like pigments made from rocks I gather and handmade willow charcoal elements. Each carries meaning, memory, and deep time of geological histories compressed into color. Drawing with these materials grounds me in a long continuum, where I feel both connected and fleeting. Creation comes in flurries, often sparked by reflection, and driven by a desire to learn and surprise myself. Whether working in painting, drawing, printmaking, or public art, I hope to honor those who shaped me and offer something lasting.

        Get Involved

        You have three simple ways to help shape this project, and every one of them counts. Add your ideas online, pinpoint spots on the map, or join us in person. However you choose to get involved, you will be helping make Ronan safer, easier to explore, and more connected.

        • Take the Walkability Survey to share your experiences and priorities
        • Use the Comment Map to pinpoint areas for improvement
        • Attend public meetings to help shape the Non-Motorized Transportation Plan
        Join The Conversation

        Stay connected with what’s happening in Ronan.

        Subscribe to get fresh updates on local projects, events, and behind-the-scenes stories. We’ll also send you subscriber-only content and opportunities to get involved.

        Select list(s) to subscribe to


        By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: Ronan Tourism. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact

        Filed Under: Projects Tagged With: grant, projects

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