News Now

"Cocaine Fairy" Plea, Montana Exile, Avalanche Alerts & Election Showdowns

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0700

Northwest Montana’s wildest headlines are front and center this week on News Now with your host Taylor Inman. We lead with the conclusion of a massive Flathead Valley crime spree as Michael Ray Downing, the man infamously dubbed the "Cocaine Fairy" by local law enforcement, reaches a plea deal following his arrest for a string of burglaries totaling over $1 million in stolen property. Downing’s legal saga comes to a head alongside the bizarre case of Dustin Lawrence Oswald, who was recently sentenced to a suspended jail term and legally ordered to leave the state of Montana forever after threatening an officer during a public urination arrest in Whitefish.

The episode shifts to urgent safety news as the Flathead Avalanche Center warns of "high" avalanche danger across the Whitefish, Swan, and Flathead ranges following a series of storms that have left the backcountry snowpack in a "touchy" and dangerous state. We also dive into local environmental efforts in Polson, where the Flathead Lakers and Polson Bay Golf Course are launching a $150,000 public-private partnership to combat E. coli and algal blooms impacting Flathead Lake’s water quality.

In political news, we break down the heating intraparty competition in Northwest Montana as the candidate filing period reveals major Republican primary showdowns for the state House, Senate, and Public Service Commission. Finally, we celebrate local storytelling with a look at two documentaries filmed on the Flathead Indian Reservation, "The Water Keepers" and "Paving the Way," which are currently contending for the prestigious Big Sky Award at the 2026 Big Sky Documentary Film Festival.

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

This summer, we followed the Brist family from their fifth-generation Montana farm to the bright lights of the Northwest Montana Fair. From early morning chores to the intensity of the show ring, their journey shows the hard work, tradition, and bittersweet goodbyes that come with raising livestock. Discover Season 4 of our Deep Dive podcast, From Farm to Fair!

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up-to-date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond. Support local journalism and please consider subscribing to us. Watch this podcast and more on our YouTube Channel. And follow us on Facebook, Instagram and X. Got a news tip, want to place an ad, or sponsor this podcast? Contact us!

Subscribe to all our other DIL pods! Keep up with northwest Montana sports on Keeping Score, dig into stories with Deep Dive, and jam out to local musicians with Press Play.

St. Patty’s, Rockhounds, & Blues: Your Ultimate March Guide to the Flathead!

Fri, 27 Feb 2026 08:00:00 -0700

Wondering how to fill your March dance card in Montana? Whether you are wishing for an early spring or praying for one last dump of snow, the Daily Inter Lake’s Local Events Podcast is here to help you navigate a wildcard month of festivals and fun. Join host Melissa Wells as she previews the top-tier events hitting Kalispell, Whitefish, and Columbia Falls.

Don your green for the 5th Annual Cloverfest on Saturday, March 15th, featuring a new location at the Columbia Falls Junior High School. For an admission fee of $10 per person or $30 for a family, you can enjoy a 5K run, a carnival in the school gym, live Irish dancing, and local food trucks. Visit Columbia Falls' Chamber of Commerce's website for the full list of events and register for races!

The 19th Annual Gold, Gem and Mineral Show takes over the Northwest Montana Fairgrounds on March 15th and 16th with vendors, live demos, and a special Kids' Corner. Hosted by the Northwest Montana Rock Chucks, this family-friendly event costs only $5 for the entire weekend, and children 12 and under get in for free.

Get the full scoop on all these events and more! Browse and plan your month at DailyInterLake.com/events.

Glacier National Park Access Updates, 2026 Economic Forecast & BNSF Lawsuit Verdict

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0700

Host Taylor Inman details the major shifts coming to Northwest Montana this year, starting with a significant overhaul of visitor access in Glacier National Park. As the park officially ends its vehicle reservation system, officials are introducing a new ticketed shuttle service and a three-hour parking limit at Logan Pass to manage congestion. We also look at the extensive construction schedule for 2026, including utility and road projects at Two Medicine and St. Mary that will result in seasonal closures.

The episode also breaks down the 2026 Economic Outlook for the region. Despite a national "no hire, no fire" economy, Flathead County continues to lead Montana in employment growth, fueled by persistent in-migration and a rebounding multi-family housing market. Finally, we cover a $2.3 million jury award in a personal injury lawsuit against BNSF Railway involving a longtime Whitefish engineer, marking a major legal conclusion to a three-year battle.

Olympic Results, New River Rules, MT Protests & Arena Sale

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down six of the Flathead Valley’s biggest and most talked-about stories, from the world stage in Italy to the banks of the Flathead River. We celebrate Libby native Konnor Ralph’s incredible 9th-place finish at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics and preview his upcoming Big Air qualifiers.

We also dive into the first major update to the Flathead River Management Plan in 40 years, which includes a new mandatory permit system. Plus, we cover the Ronan High School student walkout, the historic sale of the Majestic Valley Arena (and an upcoming Paul Cauthen concert!), the dismissal of the Cheyenne Autumn Leaf felony case, and a critical update on our local snowpack levels.

Glacier National Park Displays Removed, Local Land Battles, Debates & Winter Carnival Highlights

Sat, 07 Feb 2026 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down six of the Flathead Valley’s biggest and most talked-about stories — from federal policy changes at Glacier National Park to heated local land-use decisions and community highlights.

We begin with Glacier National Park removing interpretive displays following a federal directive, raising questions about how public lands tell history and whose voices are represented. From there, we dive into a controversial decision approving a Lakeside marina dock extension, despite widespread public opposition, and examine why county officials moved forward anyway.

The episode also covers a Montana Supreme Court ruling that clears the way for the Happy’s Inn RV park, along with a proposed lease at Polson Bay Golf Course that could reshape public access and future development. We then shift gears to community news, including the Whitefish Winter Carnival parade, featuring a surprise appearance by a NASA astronaut, before closing with standout performances at the Class AA State Speech and Debate Tournament.

Read these full stories on dailyinterlake.com:

Glacier National Park podcast, displays axed under Trump directive | Hungry Horse News

Word for word: Flathead wins second, Glacier third at state speech championship | Daily Inter Lake

Flathead County OKs resort's 159-foot marina dock in Lakeside | Daily Inter Lake

State Supreme Court rules in favor of county, developer | Western News

McDonald’s Refusal in Ronan, $4M Felony Arrest, Community Resilience, Airport Security Expansion

Sat, 31 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0700

In this episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman breaks down the most significant headlines impacting Northwest Montana. We dive into the viral incident at the Ronan McDonald’s involving the Browning High School wrestling team, exploring the owners' response, and the community’s outpouring of support following the refusal of service.

We also cover a major public safety win as the Whitefish Police Department apprehends a suspect wanted on multi-million-dollar out-of-state felony warrants. Courtesy of the Hungry Horse News, we’ll hear a heartfelt speech from the Columbia Falls Cross Country Coach, during a fundraiser for a member who suffered life-threatening injuries from a recent wreck. Finally, learn why Glacier Park International Airport is increasing security with permanent Flathead County Sheriff deputies on-site.

Alleged Slingshot Attack, 100-Year Landmark Lost, Grizzly Bear Killing, Kratom Regulation

Sat, 24 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, Daily Inter Lake host Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest headlines shaping northwest Montana.

We begin in Flathead County, where a 34-year-old man faces a felony criminal endangerment charge after allegedly shooting out a vehicle window on U.S. Highway 2 near Hungry Horse. Court documents detail the arrest, the unusual weapons investigators say were found, and what comes next as the case heads to arraignment.

Next, we look at the devastating fire that destroyed the Cattle Baron Supper Club in Babb — a family-run landmark with more than a century of history just outside Glacier National Park. Owners Bob and Charlene Burns recount how the blaze spread during extreme winds, the massive regional firefighting response, and their hopes to rebuild after losing a piece of Blackfeet and community history.

We also examine the illegal killing of a federally protected grizzly bear in northern Idaho near the Montana border. With the Cabinet-Yaak grizzly population already among the most imperiled in the Lower 48, wildlife officials explain why the death of a single female could set recovery efforts back years — and why the reward for information now stands at $15,000.

Finally, state lawmakers grapple with how to regulate kratom in Montana. With no current statewide restrictions and growing concern over synthetic products, legislators debate public safety risks, failed legislation, and what — if anything — can be done before the 2027 session.

February in the Flathead: Skijoring, Cabin Fever Days & Whitefish Winter Carnival

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 13:00:00 -0700

February in the Flathead Valley is anything but quiet. From horsepower-meets-ski power at the 20th anniversary of Whitefish Skijoring to the rowdy barstool races of Cabin Fever Days, this month delivers some of Montana’s most iconic winter traditions.

We break down everything happening across the valley in February — including the Whitefish Winter Carnival, live music, theater, speaker series, dance showcases, and community fundraisers. Whether you’re planning your weekends or looking for a reason to get out of the house, this guide has you covered with dates, highlights, and can’t-miss experiences that define winter in Northwest Montana.

The 20th annual Whitefish Skijoring weekend returns February 14–15, 2026, at 1530 W. Springcreek Road in Kalispell. Tickets are on sale now for one of Montana’s most electric winter traditions packed with speed, stunts, and spectacle. View the full schedule and purchase tickets at whitefishskijoring.org.

Find all the events listed in this episode (and more!) at dailyinterlake.com/events/ and flatheadtickets.com

Stolen Car Crash Injures Teen, Ex-Judge Sentenced, and a Fight against Invasive Goldfish

Sat, 17 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0700

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over the week’s biggest headlines for Northwest Montana. A Columbia Falls teenager is fighting to recover after a high-speed crash involving an allegedly stolen vehicle on Highway 2, leaving the community rallying around one of its standout student-athletes.

Also in this episode, a former district court judge faces sentencing in a dramatic fall from grace tied to felony drug charges, and Flathead County officials approve a major upgrade for search-and-rescue operations with a new underwater drone.

We’ll hear what Flathead County officials are saying about the recent approval for the Sheriff’s Office to purchase a new underwater drone. Plus, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks moves forward with an aggressive plan to eradicate invasive goldfish from a Thompson Falls pond, part of a growing effort to protect native waterways across the region.

Why is Flathead Lake So High? Plus Road Rage Shooting, Border Bust & Record Ski Crowds

Sat, 10 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0700

A violent road rage incident in Columbia Falls leads off this episode of News Now, after a man is charged with felony attempted homicide for allegedly firing a gun with a child inside the vehicle. Host Taylor Inman breaks down what investigators say happened and where the case now stands.

We also cover a federal sentencing tied to an illegal border crossing near Eureka, where a Canadian national received prison time after a failed attempt to evade law enforcement in northwest Montana.

Shifting gears, we take a closer look at Flathead Lake, which is sitting at unusually high levels for mid-winter. Experts explain what’s behind the numbers and what it could mean heading into spring runoff. And finally, Whitefish Mountain Resort reports a record-setting start to ski season, with skier visits surpassing previous highs as winter tourism fuels the Flathead Valley economy.

Missing Snowboarder Found Safe, Glacier Park Braces for Big Changes, Flathead Valley Tourism Update

Sat, 03 Jan 2026 05:00:00 -0700

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over some of the week’s biggest headlines for Northwest Montana. A missing snowboarder was found safe on Christmas Day after taking shelter overnight on the backside of Whitefish Mountain Resort, capping a multi-agency search effort in Flathead County.

We get the inside scoop on what Glacier National Park Superintendent Dave Roemer calls a “turbulent year” for the park, as officials prepare for potential record-breaking visitation in 2025 and major changes to vehicle access, parking limits, shuttles, and international visitor fees in 2026.

We close with a look at the Flathead Valley’s tourism outlook heading into the new year, including strong local travel numbers, declining Canadian visitation, and how airport runway closures and global economic uncertainty could reshape the 2026 travel season.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Challenges ahead as Glacier unveils new vehicle management system, foreign-visitor fees and construction projects in 2026
Missing snowboarder found safe in survival cabin near Big Mountain
Strong tourism year in the Flathead Valley but economic uncertainty and airport closure loom

Whitefish Officer Calls Border Patrol During Traffic Stop, Flood Recovery Begins, CSKT Election Results

Sat, 27 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over the week’s biggest headlines for Northwest Montana.

Newly obtained footage shows a Whitefish police officer contacted Border Patrol less than two minutes into an April 24 traffic stop for a broken taillight. The driver, Beker Rengifo del Castillo, is a Venezuelan man who entered the United States legally under a humanitarian parole program. The call, and the weeklong detention that followed, are now the focus of a lawsuit alleging unconstitutional seizure, false arrest, and racial profiling. A preliminary pretrial conference is scheduled for Jan. 30 in Missoula. Watch the full video of the body cam footage here.

Next, we share the latest update on flood recovery efforts in Lincoln County, where at least nine bridges were washed out during mid-December storms. Officials say damage to county-owned roads, bridges, and culverts exceeds $5 million, and reconstruction timelines will depend on vendor availability and federal funding approvals.

We then turn to the Flathead Reservation, where voters filled five open seats on the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Tribal Council. Three incumbents held their positions, while two seats changed hands. The newly elected council will be sworn in Jan. 2 and will soon select leadership roles.

53,000 Acres Protected, Kalispell Names New City Manager & Veterans Honored

Sat, 20 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0700

In this episode of News Now, Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest stories shaping Northwest Montana this week, from a major land conservation agreement to changes in Kalispell city leadership and community efforts to honor local veterans.

We begin with a landmark conservation deal that permanently protects more than 53,000 acres of Montana land, a move with long-term implications for wildlife habitat, public access, and regional land use. The episode also covers Kalispell’s decision to name a new city manager, outlining what the leadership change means for the city moving forward.

Finally, we highlight local events honoring veterans across the Flathead Valley, including community participation in remembrance efforts that underscore the region’s commitment to service members past and present.

Power Outages Hit Northwest Montana as Libby Faces Ongoing Water Emergency

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 16:00:00 -0700

High winds slammed Northwest Montana this week, knocking out power to tens of thousands of residents from Libby to the Flathead Valley and forcing emergency responses across the region. On this episode of News Now, we break down how damaging wind gusts — topping 67 mph in Kalispell and nearly 100 mph in the Swan Range — led to widespread outages, downed trees, road closures, and emergency shelter operations as utility crews worked through the night to restore service.

The episode also takes a closer look at the ongoing boil advisory in Libby, now entering its second week after catastrophic flooding compromised the city’s drinking water system. We explain what caused the advisory, why state officials are testing for heavy metals, what residents should know about water safety, and how emergency crews are prioritizing both infrastructure repairs and public health. This episode provides essential context for residents navigating storm impacts, infrastructure concerns, and recovery efforts across Northwest Montana.

Major Glacier Park Changes, Habitat for Humanity Build Goals, New Fishing Access & CWD Concerns

Sat, 13 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0700

On this episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down four major stories impacting Northwest Montana. Glacier National Park is preparing to end its vehicle reservation system for the 2026 summer season, shifting to new parking limits, shuttle reservations, and targeted closures in overcrowded areas. Habitat for Humanity outlines its push to build 40 homes by 2030, but acquiring buildable land remains the organization’s biggest challenge.

Columbia Falls moves forward with a new accessible fishing pier at River’s Edge Park, supported by an FWP grant. And after a confirmed case of Chronic Wasting Disease south of Ninepipes Lodge, CSKT’s Wildlife Program expands sampling and emphasizes safe handling for hunters.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Glacier National Park hits brakes on vehicle reservation system
Habitat for Humanity needs property to keep building homes
FWP pitches in $70,000 toward fishing pier
Confirmed CWD leads to more sampling on the reservation

Mercury Scare in Libby, E-Bike Crackdown, Crash in Polson, & Kalispell Affordable Housing Project

Sat, 06 Dec 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over the week’s biggest headlines for Northwest Montana. A mercury exposure in Libby sparks an urgent EPA response as officials investigate how toxic metal spread into multiple homes. Columbia Falls pushes new restrictions on electric bikes and motorized devices after a high-speed sidewalk crash, Polson deals with a pickup truck plowing into Bunker’s Bar & Grill, and Kalispell announces a major workforce housing project aimed at easing the region’s affordability crisis.

Read more from this week’s show:
Three Libby families affected by exposure to mercury
Law would restrict e-bikes, e-motorcycles in Columbia Falls
Car crashes into Bunker's restaurant
Developer lands $8.3M for new workforce housing complex along Parkline Trail

Whitefish Mountain Opening Day Drops Fresh Powder + Big Crowds

Fri, 05 Dec 2025 11:00:00 -0700

Whitefish Mountain Resort kicked off the 2025/2026 ski season with a fresh blanket of powder - and reporter Jack Underhill was on the mountain to capture opening day! From early-morning mimosa tailgates to overnight campouts under Chair 1, skiers and snowboarders showed up to catch the year’s first turns. Resort officials also share updates on snowpack, safety reminders, and what skiers can expect in the coming days as more storms are predicted to roll in.

For the latest conditions, trail openings, and mountain updates, visit Whitefish Mountain Resort’s website.

Logan Health CEO Change, Hidden Lake Distillery Plans & Warming Center Dispute

Sat, 29 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, host Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest stories shaping northwest Montana. Logan Health announces a major leadership transition as Dr. Clint Seger becomes the sole CEO of the Billings Clinic–Logan Health system, impacting thousands of employees across Montana and Wyoming. In Whitefish, new owner Justin Meccia shares his plans to rebrand Whitefish Handcrafted Spirits into Hidden Lake Distillery while expanding distribution and revamping its menu.

We also dig into the escalating dispute between Kalispell city officials and the Flathead Warming Center as a proposed ordinance could change how conditional use permits are revoked citywide. With legal tensions rising and community impact on the line, we break down what the amendment would mean for businesses, property owners and the shelter’s future.

Read more of these stories:
Dr. Clint Seger named Billings Clinic – Logan Health CEO
Spirits, smashburgers and a vision: Distillery enters new era
Flathead Warming Center lawyers say proposed permit rule violates settlement agreement, threatens property rights

Holiday Happenings: Music, Theatre & Winter Fun Across the Flathead

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0700

December is packed with concerts, festivals, holiday performances, and community traditions across the Flathead Valley — and this month’s episode of the Daily Inter Lake’s Events Podcast is your complete guide. From high-energy DJ nights at the O’Shaughnessy Cultural Arts Center to the Banff Mountain Film Festival at Wachholz, host Melissa Wells highlights the can’t-miss happenings lighting up Whitefish, Kalispell, and Bigfork.

We preview the Showcase of the Chefs, the Whitefish Christmas Stroll, the Big Band Christmas Ball, radio-style performances of A Christmas Carol at the Conrad Mansion, holiday comedy at the Whitefish Theatre Company, and cozy seasonal concerts at 101 Central. Plus, we spotlight local gift markets, boutique shopping, and community traditions that make December unforgettable in northwest Montana.

Whether you're planning family outings, looking for holiday entertainment or supporting local businesses, this episode is your go-to guide for everything happening in December across the Flathead. Discover more about all events mentioned in the episode at https://www.dailyinterlake.com/events

Mexican Man Pleads Guilty After High-Speed Chase, School Tax Error, Glacier’s Park's $4M Boost

Sat, 22 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, host Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest stories shaping northwest Montana — beginning with a Mexican national and accused drug trafficker who pleaded guilty in federal court after a high-speed chase through Kalispell this summer. We look at his criminal history, the charges still ahead, and what federal prosecutors say about the case.

Then, Somers-Lakeside School District is preparing to issue a special tax assessment after a data error slashed property tax collections by nearly 25%, draining reserve funds and forcing emergency budget amendments. We explain what families can expect in February, how the district is trying to rebuild trust, and what went wrong in the first place.

Finally, Glacier National Park is set to receive more than $4 million in project funding from the Glacier National Park Conservancy — supporting everything from student-built housing and dark-sky programs to wildlife research, trail work and whitebark pine restoration. We break down where the money is going and what it means as the park faces potential federal budget cuts.

Read more from this week’s stories:
Mexican man who launched a high-speed chase in Kalispell pleads guilty to illegal reentry
Conservancy now supports 25% of Glacier National Park's budget
Somers School District to recoup lost tax dollars after data entry error

Drake Milligan Headlines Record-Breaking Feed the Need Fundraiser

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0700

The annual Feed the Need benefit concert brought in more than $183,000 for the Flathead Food Bank, marking a record-setting night of community support in the Flathead Valley. This week on News Now, we hear from Executive Director Chris Sidmore and country artist Drake Milligan who helped make the event possible at the Wachholz College Center.

Sidmore shares how the fundraiser impacts families across northwest Montana, while Milligan reflects on performing at the benefit following the release of his new album Tumbleweed. With performances by Tommy Edwards and Clint Sherman, support from local businesses, and generous donor matches, the night underscored the strength of the Flathead community and its commitment to addressing food insecurity.

To donate or learn more about the Flathead Food Bank, visit its website at flatheadfoodbank.org.

Kalispell Plane Crash Findings, Flathead Lake Water Battle & Flight Impacts Explained

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, host Taylor Inman breaks down the biggest stories shaping northwest Montana — from the federal investigation into a fiery Kalispell plane crash, to the ongoing dispute over Flathead Lake’s low summer water levels, to how Glacier Park International Airport is navigating nationwide shutdown-related flight reductions.

We dive into the NTSB’s final report on the Socata TBM 700 crash, local aviation experts sounding alarms over repeated reckless landing patterns, and a string of deadly small-plane crashes across the region. Plus, Flathead County commissioners, Rep. Ryan Zinke, Sens. Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy weigh in on the future of Flathead Lake management. And we look at how national travel restrictions are affecting flights into and out of the Flathead Valley. Stay informed with the latest reporting impacting Kalispell, the Flathead, and Montana.

Read the full stories:
Federal investigators blame pilot for fiery Kalispell plane crash
Flathead County commissioners join flood of requests for Department of the Interior intervention on Flathead Lake
Glacier Park International Airport seeing minimal effects from government shutdown

Kalispell Elects Ryan Hunter as Mayor, Flathead Jail Bond Passes, Grizzly Encounter Near Seeley Lake

Sat, 08 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Kalispell has a new mayor — Ryan Hunter, a sitting city councilor, won the election over Sid Daoud and Kisa Davison in a close three-way race. Meanwhile, Flathead County voters approved a $105 million jail bond, paving the way for a long-awaited new detention center after decades of overcrowding. In Whitefish, prosecutors have amended charges against three protesters accused of blocking a U.S. Border Patrol vehicle earlier this year, escalating penalties in the case. And near Seeley Lake, two hunters survived a terrifying grizzly bear encounter while retrieving a harvested deer.

Read more about these stories:
Ryan Hunter elected as Kalispell's next mayor, Flathead County jail bond passes
City prosecutors file harsher charges against protesters accused of blocking Whitefish Border Patrol vehicles
Hunters survive run-in with grizzlies near Seeley Lake

2025 Election Coverage:
Interview with Ryan Hunter
Interview with Sid Daoud
Interview with Kisa Davison
Inside Flathead County Jail: The Crisis Behind the $105 Million Bond
The latest election results from Flathead County
Election results from Lincoln, Lake and Sanders counties

Damming evidence: Citizen scientists track beavers through Lolo National Forest

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 09:00:00 -0700

In this special episode, reporter Hannah Shields heads into the Lolo National Forest to follow a group of citizen scientists tracking beaver activity as part of the Clark Fork Coalition’s Beaver Blitz. These volunteers are gathering crucial data to help wildlife researchers understand how beavers move, build, and reshape watersheds — a natural solution to Montana’s growing water challenges.

From identifying freshly chewed branches to logging beaver dam sites, the fieldwork offers a firsthand look at how this keystone species is making a comeback across western Montana. Learn how beaver restoration efforts could strengthen ecosystems, protect against drought, and bring new life to rivers and wetlands statewide.

Montana SNAP Crisis, Meals on Wheels Funding Boost & Martin City Trial Recap

Sat, 01 Nov 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this week’s News Now podcast, host Taylor Inman of the Daily Inter Lake breaks down the week’s biggest headlines across northwest Montana. Local food banks in Bigfork and Lakeside are preparing for a surge in demand as SNAP benefits are temporarily halted due to the federal government shutdown, leaving many families uncertain heading into the holidays. We also look at the Flathead County Agency on Aging’s funding boost that helped save the Meals on Wheels program from major cuts — and the Martin City trial involving a man accused of running over his ex-wife.

Read more from this week’s stories:
Bigfork and West Shore food banks prepare for SNAP expiration
State funding boost keeps Flathead Meals on Wheels program moving
First responders testify in trial of man accused of running over his ex-wife in Martin City

November in Northwest Montana: Ski Films, Storytelling & Holiday Cheer

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0600

Looking for the best things to do in Montana this month? Local Events host Melissa Wells rounds up November’s can’t-miss happenings — from seeing David Sedaris live at the Wachholz College Center, to getting your winter stoke on with Warren Miller’s Sno-Ciety, to shopping local at Christmas at the Fairgrounds. Plus: Ladies Night Out in Whitefish, Season of Soul 4.0, and more ways to enjoy life in the Flathead Valley.

Don’t miss the ultimate guide to Montana’s November fun — straight from the Daily Inter Lake, Montana’s independent newsroom. Discover more about all events mentioned in the episode at dailyinterlake.com/events

A special thank you to the Artists and Craftsmen of the Flathead for sponsoring this episode. Get a head start on your holiday shopping and keep it local at Christmas at the Fairgrounds, November 28–30 at the Flathead County Fairgrounds in Kalispell. Browse gifts from 144 local artists and makers, grab a limited-edition Christmas Treasure Box supporting Logan Health Children’s Hospital, and enjoy festive fun from wreath-making to Santa’s mailbox. Admission is free — find all the details at https://acfmt.org/

Glacier’s Billion-Year Story, Landmark Montana Land Deal, and Record-Breaking Giving in Whitefish

Sat, 25 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman takes a closer look at three major stories shaping northwest Montana. Geologists uncover Glacier National Park’s billion-year-old history and its surprising connection to Australia. State officials approve a landmark conservation easement protecting more than 50,000 acres of forestland in the Cabinet Mountains. And the Whitefish Community Foundation celebrates a record-breaking year, awarding over $8 million to Flathead Valley nonprofits. Stay informed with the stories behind the headlines — from Montana’s mountains to its communities.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Evidence suggests Glacier Park may have been attached to Australia at one point
Montana Land Board adds 53K acres to conservation easement
Great Fish fundraiser nets $8.1 million for local nonprofits

Don’t miss out on our coverage of the upcoming Nov. 6 election:
Inside Flathead County Jail: The crisis behind the $105 million bond
Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series: Sid Daoud
Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series: Kisa Davison
Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series: Ryan Hunter

Part 3 of 3: Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Interview Series: Ryan Hunter

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Kalispell mayoral candidate Ryan Hunter joins Taylor Inman of the Daily Inter Lake to discuss his vision for the city’s future. From tackling affordable housing and public safety to improving infrastructure and downtown development, Hunter shares how his experience on the Kalispell City Council has shaped his approach to leadership. He also opens up about his love for the outdoors, live music, and what motivates him to continue serving his community. As the election nears, hear how Hunter plans to balance growth, livability, and sustainability while keeping Kalispell a place where families thrive.

This interview is part of our Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series — bringing local voices, ideas, and leadership visions straight to voters. Visit Hunter's official website for more on his platforms: hunter4kalispell.com Tune into interviews with the other two candidates: Sid Daoud (10/21) and Kisa Davison (10/22).

Are you a Kalispell voter? Municipal ballots were mailed October 17 to registered voters. Eligible residents can confirm registration, find ballot return details, and learn about in-person voting options by visiting the Flathead County Election Department website. Want the latest updates on local elections? Visit dailyinterlake.com for the latest developments.

Big thanks to our sponsor for these series of interviews, the Kalispell Grand Hotel! Since 1912, the Kalispell Grand has welcomed travelers to downtown Kalispell. A century of history echoes through its halls — from the original architecture to the stories of guests who made it their home away from home. Today, the tradition continues: historic charm meets modern comfort, steps from local shops, restaurants, and the beauty of Montana’s Flathead Valley. Stay at the Kalispell Grand Hotel: https://kalispellgrand.com/

Part 2 of 3: Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Interview Series: Kisa Davison

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Kalispell mayoral candidate Kisa Davison sits down with reporter Taylor Inman of the Daily Inter Lake to share her vision for the city’s future — from housing affordability and public safety to downtown redevelopment and community connection. As a long-time business owner and community leader, Davison talks about her drive to serve, her hopes for Main Street, and the importance of fostering collaboration in local government. This episode also offers a personal side of Davison — her favorite coffee order, music picks, and the values she hopes to bring to City Hall.

This interview is part of our Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series — bringing local voices, ideas, and leadership visions straight to voters. Visit Davison's official website for more on her platforms: kisaforkalispell.com Tune into interviews with the other two candidates: Sid Daoud (10/21) and Ryan Hunter (10/23).

Part 1 of 3: Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Interview Series: Sid Daoud

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Kalispell City Council member Sid Daoud joins Taylor Inman of the Daily Inter Lake for a one-on-one interview ahead of the 2025 mayoral election. In this in-depth conversation, Daoud discusses his vision for Main Street revitalization, improving public safety and infrastructure, addressing affordable housing, and strengthening community-led solutions over government control. He shares personal stories from his time on the council, his military service, and why he believes the role of mayor is about one thing above all: listening to the people of Kalispell.

This interview is part of our Kalispell Mayoral Candidate Series — bringing local voices, ideas, and leadership visions straight to voters. Visit Daoud's official website for more on his platforms: libertysid.com Tune into interviews with the other two candidates: Kisa Davison (10/22) and Ryan Hunter (10/23).

Arrest in Kalispell Vandalism Case, Snowfall Closes Going-to-the-Sun Road in Glacier, and Whitefish Resort Enhances Winter Operations

Sat, 18 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this week’s News Now, host Taylor Inman recaps northwest Montana’s top headlines — from a Kalispell man facing charges after a property damage incident to early snow prompting seasonal closures in Glacier National Park. Plus, Whitefish Mountain Resort gets ready for winter with new technology, improved grooming equipment, and expanded cell service ahead of ski season.

Read more from this week’s stories:

Kalispell vandalism suspect taken into custody with less than lethal projectiles

Snow closes alpine section of Glacier National Park’s Going-to-Sun Road, likely for the season

Cell service, snowmaking get boost at Whitefish Mountain Resort

Resilient Spirits: Accessibility at Flathead Lake, A Loyal Dog’s Journey & Kalispell’s Book Boom

Sat, 11 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this week’s News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman explores stories of determination, compassion, and community spirit across Northwest Montana. From a new accessibility initiative at Wayfarers State Park that’s breaking down barriers for people with disabilities, to the incredible true story of Baldone — a Great Pyrenees who survived 84 days in the wild after losing his owner — this episode captures the heart of the Flathead. We’ll also highlight the Friends of the Flathead County Library’s record-breaking book sale and what it means for literacy programs in our region.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Wayfarers accessibility project aims to create new pathways for outdoor recreation
Book sale generates $17,000 for county library
From lone wolf to beloved pack member, Baldone thrives seven months later

Border Patrol Protesters Plead Not Guilty, Trolley Fire, New Citizens at Glacier National Park

Sat, 04 Oct 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman covers three major stories shaping Northwest Montana. Three protesters pleaded not guilty after demonstrations outside the Whitefish Border Patrol Station following the detention of a Honduran mother and daughter. In Creston, investigators are calling a late-night blaze that destroyed three Montana Trolley Co. vehicles “suspicious,” leaving the future of the beloved business in question. And at Glacier National Park, 15 new Americans from around the world celebrated their citizenship during a moving naturalization ceremony on Lake McDonald’s shores.

October in the Flathead: Festivals, Concerts & Celebrations

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:00:00 -0600

October is here, and the Flathead Valley is alive with community events, live music, theatre, and seasonal celebrations. From the Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish and the Harvest Moon Fest in Kalispell, to the symphonic brilliance of the St. Olaf Orchestra and the energy of Mike Eldred performing John Denver’s classics, there’s something for everyone this month. We also highlight unique shows like Erica Von Kleist’s bold jazz comedy BOOBS! benefitting breast health, spooky Conrad Mansion Ghost Tours, and local theatre productions of A Murder is Announced and Wait Until Dark.

Discover more about all events mentioned in the episode at https://www.dailyinterlake.com/events

A special thank you to Keenan’s Jewelry for sponsoring this episode. Celebrate their 50th Anniversary with a wine tasting kickoff on Friday, October 3rd, from 4–7 p.m. at their Kalispell location. Throughout October, enjoy progressive discounts of up to 50% off fine jewelry, plus a special trunk show October 24–25. Follow Keenan's Jewelry on Facebook and Instagram for updates and exclusive invites.

Learn more about the St. Olaf Orchestra performance on Thursday, October 23rd at https://wachholzcollegecenter.org/ ...hurry up and get your tickets today!

Cemetery Burial Records Vanish, Skate Park Survives, New Eats Arrive

Sat, 27 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman covers three of Northwest Montana’s biggest stories. First, Kalispell’s historic Conrad Memorial Cemetery faces turmoil after its longtime sexton and his son disappeared with crucial burial records, halting plot sales and burials. Next, we look at how community support saved Serious Juju, the nonprofit indoor skate park in Kalispell, raising $55,000 to keep doors open through 2026. Finally, we spotlight Tex and Jerry’s Eatery in Hungry Horse, the valley’s newest restaurant bringing back beloved tacos and hearty comfort food.

Protests at Border Patrol in Whitefish, Yellowstone Bear Attack, and Political Violence Condemned

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, we cover three major stories shaping Montana and beyond. In Whitefish, protesters were arrested after blocking a Border Patrol vehicle while raising concerns about the detention of a mother and daughter. Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson responds to the shocking killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, urging civil discourse in the lead-up to local elections. And in Yellowstone National Park, a hiker survived a grizzly bear attack that closed part of the Turbid Lake Trail. Join us for in-depth reporting, context, and analysis from Montana’s largest independent newsroom.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Protesters arrested for blocking Border Patrol vehicle in Whitefish
Mayor Johnson condemns political violence after killing of Charlie Kirk
Bear attack on hiker closes trail in Yellowstone

Kathleen Littfin: Award-Winning Quilter Turns Fabric into Love, Art, and Legacy

Mon, 15 Sep 2025 10:00:00 -0600

What if a quilt could hold more than stitches—what if it could hold love, memory, and joy? Meet award-winning quilter Kathleen Littfin, whose creations have comforted families, celebrated milestones, and turned grief into something beautiful. From engineering precision to six-year masterpieces, Kathleen’s work tells stories in fabric. Catch her inspiring journey and see why quilts are more than blankets—they’re pieces of life itself.

The Flathead Quilters' Guild show will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 19 and from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 in the Expo Building at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, 265 N. Meridian Road, Kalispell. For more information, visit flatheadquilters.org.

Read Haily Smalley's full article on dailyinterlake.com.

Montana Reacts to Charlie Kirk’s Death, Hockey Coach Trial, and Whitefish DUI Case

Sat, 13 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This episode of News Now covers three of Montana’s biggest developing stories. Politicians across the state respond to the shocking death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk, remembered for his influence on young Republicans and his ties to Montana’s political leaders. We also follow the trial of former youth hockey coach Jami James, facing multiple counts of sexual assault against minors, and provide the latest updates in Whitefish, where 20-year-old Andrew Sullivan has pleaded not guilty to negligent homicide after a fatal crash. Stay informed with in-depth reporting from Montana’s largest independent newsroom.

Read more from this week’s stories:
Montana politicians mourn the killing of conservative activist Charlie Kirk
Child victim testifies in hockey coach sexual assault case in Butte
Marion man pleads not guilty to negligent homicide in alleged DUI crash that killed Flathead teen

Glacier Park Bear Attack, Highline Trail Tragedy, DUI Crash & Flathead County Budget Cuts

Sat, 06 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman covers a series of major stories impacting Northwest Montana. First, a hiker was injured in a bear encounter in Glacier National Park, followed by a tragic fatal fall on the Highline Trail. We also dive into the alleged DUI crash outside Whitefish that killed a Flathead teenager and the legal fallout surrounding the driver. Finally, we break down the Flathead County budget for fiscal year 2026, which brings lower property taxes while funding major projects.

Read more from this week’s stories:
Glacier National Park hiker injured by bear defending cubs
Woman dies after 450-foot fall from Highline Trail
Driver charged in fatal Whitefish crash involving teen
Flathead County budget lowers taxes

Luxury Resort approved in Lakeside, Wildlife Threats & Glacier Park Water Concerns

Sat, 30 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Big developments, big impacts — here’s what you need to know. Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over the week’s biggest stories for northwest Montana. Flathead County commissioners approve a massive 1,700-acre luxury resort in Lakeside, sparking heated debate over jobs, traffic, and community identity. Meanwhile, a colony of bats near Libby Dam tests positive for white-nose syndrome, a deadly wildlife disease with major ecological consequences. Finally, Glacier National Park officials warn of possible water shutoffs at Logan Pass as rising visitation strains resources.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Deadly white-nose disease detected in bats at Libby Dam
Water shortage causes facility closures at Logan Pass
Flathead County commissioners grant unanimous approval of Flathead Lake Club

September in Montana: Festivals, Music, and Local Fun

Thu, 28 Aug 2025 13:00:00 -0600

Get ready for a jam-packed September across Northwest Montana! From Trego Heritage Day’s historic celebrations and Libby’s Clash of the Carvers chainsaw competition to live shows featuring Justin Moore, the Modern Rock Orchestra, and the Neil Diamond Legacy Concert, this episode covers the can’t-miss events of the month. We’ll also preview the Whitefish Songwriter Festival, quilt shows, library sales, and family-friendly movie nights and performances.

Learn more about our featured event, Trego Heritage Festival on October 4th!
See the full schedule of events - Trego, MT Heritage Days | thehalltfs.com

Kalispell’s Keenan’s Jewelry is celebrating 50 years in business with a month of special events, including a kickoff wine tasting on October 3, a trunk sale October 24–25, and up to 50% off fine jewelry all October long. Plus, September shines for Virgos with 20% off sapphires—follow Keenan’s on Facebook and Instagram to join the celebration.

Check out https://www.dailyinterlake.com/events

Tragedy on Birch Grove Road, Car Fire, Flathead Lake Recovery, and Forest Service Timber Plans

Sat, 23 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake's Taylor Inman brings you the top stories shaping Northwest Montana. This week, authorities investigate a tragic homicide after a pedestrian was struck and killed near Kalispell, one person is dead after car fire in Kalispell, a missing boater’s body is recovered from Flathead Lake, and U.S. Forest Service Chief Tom Schultz outlines major changes to timber production, wildfire management, and federal land policy during a Whitefish summit.

Serious Juju at Risk: Can Kalispell Save Its Skate Park?

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 16:00:00 -0600

Serious Juju has been a lifeline for kids in Kalispell — offering free meals, mentorship, and a safe indoor skate park for nearly 20 years. Now, the nonprofit faces closure on September 6 unless it raises $33,500 to cover critical costs. In this episode, we share the stories of families who rely on Serious Juju and outline exactly what’s at stake for youth in the Flathead Valley if this sanctuary disappears.

To learn how community support could make the difference between closing the doors or keeping this vital space alive, visit www.seriousjuju.com/give

Kalispell Plane Crash, West Glacier Tragedy, and Owl Bar Shooting Suspect Captured

Sat, 16 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman covers the results of preliminary investigations into two separate plane crashes in the Flathead — a fiery crash at Kalispell City Airport where all four passengers survived, and a tragic fatal wreck in West Glacier that has federal investigators searching for answers. We also break down the arrest of Michael Paul Brown, the suspect accused of killing four people at the Owl Bar in Anaconda, following an extensive week-long search by local and federal authorities.

Montana’s Must-See August Events: Chainsaw Art, Motown Magic & Midland Live

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 15:00:00 -0600

From world-class chainsaw carving in Libby to the soulful sounds of Motown in Whitefish, August in Northwest Montana is packed with unforgettable experiences. We spotlight the Clash of the Carvers international championship, tribute concerts to Neil Diamond and Barbara Streisand, the Music of Motown series, and Grammy-nominated Midland’s Columbia Falls show. Plus, discover unique community happenings — from vintage engine exhibitions to big band swing nights — and insider tips on scoring tickets to can’t-miss performances. Whether you’re into fine art, live music, or small-town charm, this episode is your ultimate guide to savoring summer in Big Sky Country.

Learn more about our featured event, Clash of the Carvers on their website - https://www.clashofthecarvers.com/

Check out https://www.dailyinterlake.com/events for the full rundown of upcoming events.

Skydiving Tragedy, Flathead Lake Surprise, and Tyler Childers’ $500K Blackfeet Donation

Sat, 09 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman covers three major stories from northwest Montana: a tragic skydiving accident at the Lost Prairie Boogie near Marion, how record-breaking July rainfall may have saved Flathead Lake’s water levels, and country star Tyler Childers’ $500,000 donation to Blackfeet Nation nonprofits—including FAST Blackfeet’s crucial work in food sovereignty. Don’t miss this mix of breaking news, inspiring generosity, and environmental developments impacting the Flathead Valley.

Read more from this week’s show:
FAST Blackfeet among native nonprofits to receive donation from Tyler Childers
Mid-air collision at Lost Prairie Boogie leaves one skydiver dead, Flathead County sheriff says
Flathead Lake to remain near full pool

Digital Divide, Dispatch Dilemma, and a Downtown Decision

Sat, 02 Aug 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over some of the week’s biggest headlines for northwest Montana. A popular Wi-Fi hotspot lending program at the Flathead County Library is at risk after losing federal funding — but the community is stepping up with possible solutions. Meanwhile, Flathead County faces a serious staffing shortage in its 911 dispatch center, raising concerns about emergency response times. In Kalispell, the City Council is considering transferring ownership of the historic Central School building to the Northwest Montana History Museum, a move that could secure its future as a cultural hub.

Read more from this week’s episode:
Flathead County Library to look at alternative funding options for hotspots
Flathead County struggles to fill dispatcher, custodial positions
Kalispell City Council considers transferring Central School building to museum

No Drama, Just Llamas: Hiking the Montana Backcountry with Some Unlikely Guides

Mon, 28 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake reporter Hailey Smalley follows Jamie Rolfing and his family as they reopen their 500-acre Great Northern Ranch to the public, inviting visitors to experience the quiet companionship of llamas along forest trails. Recapture the magic of slowing down, listening to the trees, and letting these quirky animals lead the way.

Read the full article - A family llama-cy: Couple takes the lead on family trekking business

Wolves in the Crosshairs, Veto Overridden, and Bigfork Bridge Rebuild Begins

Sat, 26 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Reporter Taylor Inman breaks down the major headlines shaping Northwest Montana this week. Montana’s wolf population is back in the spotlight as officials propose looser hunting and trapping rules — sparking debate across the state. Lawmakers successfully override Gov. Gianforte’s veto of a bill to reimburse counties for housing inmates awaiting mental health care. Plus, construction is set to begin on a long-awaited replacement for the Sportsman’s Bridge in Bigfork.

Read more from this week’s show:
Proposed regulation changes aim to increase Montana wolf harvest
State will reimburse jails holding inmates awaiting mental health evaluations
Work on Sportsman's Bridge to begin next month

Montana Festival Fever: Huckleberries, Faeries, Reggae & More Summer Highlights!

Thu, 24 Jul 2025 13:00:00 -0600

From Whitefish to Columbia Falls, this episode takes you inside the vibrant heartbeat of Northwest Montana's summer festival scene. We’re talking Huckleberry Days, the Flathead Faerie Festival, Heritage Days in Columbia Falls, reggae at the Montana Tap House, Fire in the Mountains metal fest, Fleetwood Mac tributes, Motown tributes, and Midland’s big show—plus so much more. Get the scoop on food trucks, art vendors, live music, and the community spirit bringing these events to life.

Don't miss our featured event - Whitefish’s Huckleberry Days Arts Festival, August 8th–10th at Depot Park! Enjoy local art, food, and family-friendly fun all weekend long — and admission is free, thanks to the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at whitefishartsfestival.org

Whether you’re chasing huckleberry ice cream or headbanging in the mountains, we’ve got the full rundown of can't-miss moments. Check out dailyinterlake.com/events for the full rundown.

20,000 Strong: Why Fans Flock to Under the Big Sky Festival in Whitefish, Montana

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0600

What draws tens of thousands to a rural Montana ranch each summer? In this special episode from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman hits the fields at Under the Big Sky 2025 to talk with fans from across the country. From college reunions to last-minute ticket surprises, hear why this music festival—with artists like Tyler Childers, Mumford & Sons, and Wynonna—has become a must-do pilgrimage for Americana lovers. We also explore what makes this more than just a music event: the rodeos, tattoos, Glacier hikes, tooth gems, and cornhole rivalries. It’s the story of connection, place, and unforgettable sound under the Montana sky.

Learn more at underthebigskyfest.com

Read more Under the Big Sky coverage from the DIL:
Music, western wear take center stage at Under the Big Sky
Under the Big Sky brings three days of music to Flathead Valley
Drew Landry’s return to music leads him to Under the Big Sky festival stage

Lawsuit Challenges Luxury Resort, Whitefish Fire Destroys Iconic Building, Pre-Release Center Update

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week, we cover a trio of major stories out of northwest Montana. A group of Blankenship residents has filed a lawsuit to block a proposed luxury resort over easement concerns. In Whitefish, a two-alarm fire reduced a beloved historic building to rubble, while Flathead County and the state move forward with plans for a controversial 90-bed pre-release center in Evergreen.

Read more from this week’s show:
Lawsuit challenges proposed Teakettle Mountain resort
Cause of fire that destroyed abandoned building in Whitefish under investigation
Flathead County signs agreement paving way for prerelease center

Still Searching One Year Later: The Disappearance of Emily Rea

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 12:00:00 -0600

It’s been one year since 34-year-old Emily Rea vanished while paddleboarding near the Hungry Horse Reservoir in Montana. Despite extensive search efforts from law enforcement, volunteers, and specialized sonar teams, Emily remains missing—and now, her family is calling for a new direction.

In this special episode of News Now, Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman speaks with Emily’s loved ones, including her mother Nina and close friend Michaela, who are rallying the community to support a renewed investigation. Learn why they believe it’s time to look beyond the water and what you can do to help bring answers to this heartbreaking case.

For more information about Emily, please visit EyesForEmily.com. Report tips to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office at 406-752-TIPS.

Border Patrol Concerns in Whitefish, Glacier Gorge Rescue, and Helicopter Mayhem in Kalispell

Sat, 12 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this News Now episode from the Daily Inter Lake, we cover three big stories from across northwest Montana. Whitefish city leaders raise concerns about federal immigration enforcement after a local traffic stop involving Border Patrol agents sparks community debate. In Glacier National Park, a harrowing accident at Avalanche Gorge ends in a dramatic rescue credited to bystanders with medical training. And in Kalispell, a man faces felony charges after allegedly dismantling a firefighting helicopter he mistook for scrap. Don’t miss the latest updates from around the Flathead Valley.

Read more from this week’s show:
Whitefish rethinking its relationship with Border Patrol, officials say
'Heroic efforts' of bystanders credited with saving hikers that fell in Glacier National Park gorge
Allegedly ransacking a helicopter earns Kalispell man a pair of felony charges

Idaho Firefighter Ambush, Jewel Basin Rescue, and Deer Culling Plan in the Flathead

Sat, 05 Jul 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman covers three major stories from around the region. In northern Idaho, a shocking attack left two firefighters dead and one injured after a transient man set a wildfire and opened fire on first responders. In the Flathead, the Bigfork Fire Department executed a dramatic rope rescue after a vehicle plunged 400 feet down Jewel Basin Road. And Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is increasing whitetail harvest quotas in the Flathead Valley in response to the spread of chronic wasting disease, marking a new chapter in the state’s wildlife management strategy.

This week's stories were written by Associated Press reporters Manuel Valdes and Lindsey Wasson, as well Daily Inter Lake reporters Jack Underhill and Taylor Inman.

Jeep Ends Up in Flathead River After Risky Move at Fishing Access Site

Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0600

A Jeep ended up in the Flathead River after a driver got too close to the edge at a fishing access site. No injuries were reported, but officials warn these “simple mistakes” can carry big risks.

We had boots on the ground as crews fished the Jeep out of the river, check out our footage of the scene on our YouTube channel.

Read full story by Daily Inter Lake reporter Jack Underhill.

Going-to-the-Sun Opens Early: Visitors React to Glacier’s Iconic Road Experience

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 14:00:00 -0600

In this special episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman hits the road — literally — to capture the joy, surprise, and awe of visitors experiencing Glacier National Park's Going-to-the-Sun Road on its opening day on June 18th, 2025. From families who extended their trip to lucky travelers who scored last-minute tickets, hear what it's like to witness Glacier’s alpine grandeur for the first time.

Guests share stories of wildlife sightings, reservation system wins, and first impressions of Logan Pass, Lake McDonald, and Avalanche Lake. Whether you're a Glacier veteran or planning your first trip, this episode captures the magic of one of America’s most iconic roads.

As of July 1st, 2025, Going-to-the-Sun Road is fully open for the summer — that’s all 50 miles from West Glacier to St. Mary, including Logan Pass and Rising Sun. Timed-entry vehicle reservations are still required on the West Entrance side during peak hours – that's 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. - through September 28th. No reservations are needed to enter from the east side at St. Mary. A Summer shuttle service is now running daily between Apgar and St. Mary starting July 1st.

For ongoing updates on road conditions, trail access, wildlife closures, or sudden weather changes, visit the official National Park Service Glacier page at nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit — and remember to always be prepared for chilly, alpine conditions even in July.

Read Taylor's full article here.

Airport Partial Closure Planned, DUI Homicide Charge Filed, Fish Advisory Issued on Tribal Waters

Sat, 28 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman is covering major updates from around Northwest Montana. Glacier Park International Airport announces a partial closure for July 2026, with limited weekend operations due to much-needed runway repairs. In Bigfork, prosecutors file a felony vehicular homicide charge after a deadly New Year’s crash allegedly fueled by alcohol.

Plus, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes issue a fish consumption advisory along parts of the Clark Fork, Bitterroot, and Blackfoot Rivers following confirmation of high contaminant levels. And in some good news, the Daily Inter Lake is named Montana’s best daily newspaper for the second year running!

Read more of this week’s stories:
Glacier Park International Airport to operate on limited hours over July 2026 for runway repairs
Woman charged in deadly New Year’s Day wreck near Bigfork
CSKT issues fish consumption warning for three rivers
Daily Inter Lake stakes claim as Montana’s best newspaper!

July Events Preview - Whitefish Arts Festival, Under the Big Sky, & Flathead's First Stadium Concert

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Northwest Montana is packed with summer celebrations, and this episode of News Now has your ultimate July events roundup! From the 46th annual Whitefish Arts Festival to the first-ever stadium concert at Glacier Bank Park featuring Tyler Rich, and of course, the return of Under the Big Sky Festival with headliners like Wynonna Judd, Tyler Childers, and Mumford & Sons — this is the month to mark your calendars.

We’ve also got your guide to Fourth of July parades, concerts at Home Ranch Bottoms and Sliter’s Park, family fun in Polson and Ronan, the Arlee Celebration, and so much more. Whether you're in the mood for art, music, rodeo, or fireworks — we’ve got your plans covered.

Learn more about our featured events for this week's episode:
Whitefish Arts Festival on July 4-6 - https://www.whitefishartsfestival.org/
Tyler Rich at Glacier Bank Park on July 11th - https://www.glacierbankpark.com/event...
Outriders Present Under the Big Sky on July 18-20 -

Gianforte Signs Hiring Law, Bigfork Murder Sentencing, Kalispell's No Kings Protest Draws Thousands

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now from the Daily Inter Lake, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down three major stories making headlines across Northwest Montana. First, Governor Greg Gianforte signs a controversial new law in Evergreen aimed at cracking down on illegal hiring practices — a move supporters say will protect local workers and opponents worry may fuel immigration enforcement tensions.

We also cover the sentencing of Derrick Jackson, who was handed 100 years in prison for his role in a 2022 double homicide in Bigfork. Finally, a 'No Kings' protest in downtown Kalispell sees over 2,000 participants, five arrests, and one serious injury after a pedestrian was struck during the demonstration.

Read more of this week’s show:
Gianforte signs law cracking down on illegal hiring during stop in Evergreen |
Man convicted of murder in Bigfork double homicide case given 100 years prison time
Five arrested and one injured in largely peaceful “No Kings” protest in Kalispell

Read more local and state coverage:
A taste of home: Los Pingüinos combines traditional Mexican cuisine with fine dining techniques
Glacier National Park visitors delighted by full Sun Road opening
Work on Bigfork's downtown bridge wr

Historic Drop for Flathead Lake, Montana Abortion Laws Overturned, Glacier Bear Euthanized

Sat, 14 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Montana’s water crisis worsens as Flathead Lake is projected to fall three feet below full pool by August, threatening docks and recreation access. Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman also breaks down the Montana Supreme Court’s major decision to overturn 2021 abortion restrictions, reaffirming the state’s constitutional right to privacy. Plus, Glacier National Park officials euthanize a food-conditioned black bear, and close part of Going-to-the-Sun Road after a second bear snags a tourist’s snack. We’ve got the full rundown on what these stories mean to Northwest Montana.

Read more from this week’s show:
New forecast sinks summer lake level to historic low
State Supreme Court strikes down 2021 abortion restrictions
Glacier Park officials kill one of two food-conditioned bears

Going-to-the-Sun Road Reopens: Key Info for Summer 2025

Fri, 13 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0600

Glacier’s iconic Going-to-the-Sun Road opens Monday, June 16th, but you’ll need to plan ahead. We break down timed entry rules, shuttle tips, bike restrictions, and bear safety in under 5 minutes to keep your summer adventure stress-free.

Complete information on timed entry vehicle reservations can be found online at https://www.nps.gov/glac/planyourvisit/vehicle-reservations.htm

From Thailand to Glacier: A Summer of Friendship, Hiking, and Self-Discovery

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 12:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman meets Gam Narakornpaijit, a 23-year-old J-1 exchange visitor from Thailand who spent a life-changing summer working in Glacier National Park. From helping guests at Many Glacier Hotel to crossing freezing rivers on breathtaking hikes, Gam shares the highs, challenges, and cultural experiences of seasonal life in Northwest Montana.

She opens up about forging friendships from around the world, throwing a Thai party in the employee dorms, and how a last-minute rodeo trip gave her the full Montana experience. Hear how this biomedical engineering grad turned Glacier staffer found connection, adventure, and belonging in the heart of the mountains.

Read Taylor's full article!

#GlacierNationalPark #J1Visa #MontanaLife #ExchangeStudent #ThaiCulture #SeasonalWork #NewsNowPodcast #MontanaAdventure #FlatheadValley #DailyInterLake

Whitefish Residents Seek Answers, DUI Arrest Turns Violent, & Kalispell Construction Site Vandalized

Sat, 07 Jun 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman catches you up on some recent headlines for Northwest Montana. Whitefish residents call on city leaders to investigate a police call that led to a Venezuelan man’s detention by Border Patrol, raising concerns over bias and accountability. In Columbia Falls, a suspected drunk driver allegedly assaulted an officer during a DUI arrest.

Meanwhile in Kalispell, authorities are investigating a costly act of vandalism after a group of minors allegedly caused $48,000 in damage at a construction site. Get caught up on the week’s biggest public safety headlines from across Northwest Montana.

Read more from this week’s show:
Whitefish residents push city to investigate police call to Border Patrol
Suspected drunk driver allegedly attacked arresting police officers in Columbia Falls
Vandals accused of causing $48K in damage to Kalispell construction site

Banana Lake Fire Update: Crews Gain Ground as Temps Rise in Sanders County

Fri, 06 Jun 2025 13:00:00 -0600

Banana Lake Fire grows to 883 acres with 25% containment near Plains. Crews prepare for high temps this weekend. Stay tuned to News Now for continuing wildfire coverage and updates from across the region.

Northwest Montana Fire Update: Banana Lake fire near Plains

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 06:00:00 -0600

The Banana Lake Fire has expanded to 1,000 acres north of Plains, but cooler weather and a strong firefighting response are helping crews make steady progress. Stay tuned to News Now for continuing wildfire coverage and updates from across the region.

Holland Lake Lodge Update, Kalispell Mayoral Race, and Alleged DUI Crash

Sat, 31 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, we cover three of the Flathead Valley’s most important stories. The U.S. Forest Service has approved a 20-year permit for new owners of the historic Holland Lake Lodge, putting to rest years of development controversy. In Kalispell, the race for a new mayor is underway with three familiar names vying for leadership in a city seeing rapid growth and change.

Plus, we break down the details behind a rollover crash on the U.S. 93 Bypass, where a man with four children in his vehicle allegedly was found to have a blood alcohol level more than three times the legal limit.

Read more from this week’s show:
Forest Service approves permit to operate Holland Lake Lodge
Three candidates so far are vying to become Kalispell's next mayor
Suspected drunk driver flipped truck with four children inside

Read more local and state coverage:
Steak and spaghetti: Spencer & Co. Steakhouse has been serving the valley for more than three decades
Cost increases driving Whitefish’s proposed budget
High school students host dinner to benefit families battling cancer
Cowboy action shooting comes loaded with fun

Your June Guide: Pride, Performances & Big Summer Kickoffs in Northwest Montana

Wed, 28 May 2025 15:00:00 -0600

From Flathead Pride Festival and Happy’s Inn’s stacked summer concert series to the Stumptown Getdown in Whitefish and Grammy-winner Mike Reid performing at the PAC, it’s a full calendar of music, markets, workshops, and family-friendly fun.

Also on the docket: Downtown Kalispell Walking Tours, fiber art workshops, The Baby Shower at the Whitefish Theatre Company, and an all-ages wildlife talk on 40 years of grizzly bear research. Whether you’re grooving to ABBA, shopping at a makers’ market, or supporting a local cause, this episode has your roadmap to a packed and colorful June in the Flathead.

Learn more about our featured business in this episode - Happy's Inn in Libby! Visit https://happysinn.com/ for their full summer concert line up and make a plan to rock out because if this summer's lineup is anything like last year's, these concerts will sell out!

For more information on all other events mentioned in this episode, please visit https://dailyinterlake.com/events.

Measles Alert, Kalispell’s Population Boom, and Border Patrol Backlash

Sat, 24 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, host Taylor Inman unpacks three major stories from across Northwest Montana. Flathead County confirms its first measles case in decades as health officials race to contain potential exposure amid concerns about local vaccination rates. New U.S. Census data shows Kalispell’s population has surged nearly 25% since 2020, making it the fastest-growing city in Montana — and raising questions about infrastructure, housing, and long-term planning.

Plus, fallout continues in Whitefish after the traffic stop of a Venezuelan immigrant led to his detention by Border Patrol. Law enforcement leaders weigh in on when — and why — local officers involve immigration officials. It’s a packed episode covering the week’s most pressing issues from the Flathead Valley and beyond.

Plowing Glacier: Why This Spring Is Different on Going-to-the-Sun Road

Thu, 22 May 2025 09:00:00 -0600

Spring plowing is underway on Glacier National Park’s world-famous Going-to-the-Sun Road — but this year, something’s different. Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman brings you behind the scenes with the workers responsible for opening one of the most scenic drives in America. Hear what’s making this year easier — and what still lies ahead.

Listen now to look inside the conditions, challenges, and people behind Glacier’s most iconic roadway.

Law Roundup: Coal Rolls, Crazy Sauce & Duckling Drama

Mon, 19 May 2025 11:00:00 -0600

This week on Law Roundup, the absurd meets the everyday in Flathead County’s most entertaining police calls. From a man playing with fire — literally — at a gas station, to a Labrador named Butters terrorizing the neighborhood, to mysterious overnight machinery movement at the fairgrounds, we cover it all.

Read the Daily Inter Lake's latest law roundup reports - https://dailyinterlake.com/news/law-roundup/

Border Deportations, Burglary Ring Busts & Funding Restored

Sat, 17 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman breaks down the most pressing headlines across Northwest Montana. U.S. authorities deport multiple children—some U.S. citizens—following a major border arrest near Sweet Grass, raising questions about immigration enforcement. In Flathead County, the so-called “Cocaine Fairy” returns to the spotlight, now facing charges in a widespread burglary ring targeting seasonal homes. And in Kalispell, a federal grant for a crucial nonprofit childcare and housing initiative is unexpectedly pulled—then reinstated—under controversial circumstances tied to a Trump-era executive order.

Read more from this week’s show:
American children among group deported following Hi-Line immigration arrest
Suspected criminal ringleader was once known as the 'cocaine fairy'
Kalispell-based nonprofit sees federal funds pulled, then restored

Read more local and state coverage:
Feds drop trademark claim against Range Riders
Kalispell Planning Commission to weigh new housing rules
Police deem Mother’s Day killings in Kalispell a murder-suicide

Kalispell Voters Say Yes, Glacier Gets a Boost, and Libby Builds for Baseball

Sat, 10 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down three major stories from Northwest Montana. Voters in Kalispell approve a $2.9 million school levy — the first successful high school levy in 18 years — signaling strong community support for public education.

We also dig into the proposed America the Beautiful Act, which could direct $2 billion annually toward overdue public land maintenance, including millions already allocated to Glacier National Park. And in Libby, the community rallies to renovate local fields ahead of a summer youth baseball tournament, attracting teams from across Montana and Canada.

Traveling back in time – Railroad display models historic Flathead Valley in miniature

Wed, 07 May 2025 15:00:00 -0600

Once, trains chugged right through the heart of Kalispell, making it a bustling railroad hub and commercial center in Northwest Montana. A spur line linked the town to Somers on Flathead Lake, where passengers and freight moved daily between Kalispell’s Great Northern Depot and the steamboat terminal.

Though the trains stopped running decades ago and the tracks removed, their impact still echoes today.

At the Northwest Montana History Museum, visitors can now step back in time through a detailed model railroad display as part of an exhibit highlighting the region’s timber industry roots.

Find out about the volunteers who made the display happen with Daily Inter Lake's story Traveling Back in Time. Read Heidi Desch's full story online.

The Northwest Montana History Museum is located at 124 Second Ave. E. in Kalispell. For more information, visit nwmthistory.org.

Main Street Overhaul, Bobby’s Law Passes, and Deer Park Eyes $4M School Bond

Sat, 03 May 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman for a recap of a few of this week’s biggest headlines. Kalispell City Council takes a major step toward redesigning Main Street by applying for a $25 million federal grant, aiming to make downtown safer and more walkable through a "road diet" project.

We also dive into the passage of Bobby’s Law, new statewide legislation that raises penalties for drunk driving following the death of Columbia Falls resident Bobby Dewbre. And in education news, Deer Park School is seeking voter approval of a $4 million bond to replace aging infrastructure, modernize classrooms, and add administrative space.

Read more of today’s stories:
Council appears likely to seek $25 million grant to redesign Main Street in Kalispell
Governor signs Bobby’s Law, imposing tougher drunk driving penalties
Deer Park School puts $4M bond before voters for new building

Read more local and state coverage:
Fine mountain dining returns to Kandahar Lodge on Big Mountain
Tribute concert honors Whitefish resident's commitment to music
FVCC raises over $60,000 for scholarships
Columbia Falls skate park opens to rave reviews

May Events in Montana: Concerts, Festivals, Mother's Day Fun & More!

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 13:00:00 -0600

Ready to kick off summer in Northwest Montana? This episode covers the best local events happening in May — from live music at Happy’s Inn and concerts with The Lowdown Drifters and Ned LeDoux, to epic film festivals in Whitefish, Mother's Day celebrations in Kalispell, and foodie fun with Whitefish Restaurant Week!

Plus, snag your spot at the Daily Inter Lake's exclusive Press Play concert with the Jamie Wyman Duo at https://flatheadtickets.com/ Watch or listen to our full interview with her on our Press Play podcast - https://www.buzzsprout.com/2366043/episodes/17038165

Learn more about our featured business in this episode - Happy's Inn in Libby! Visit https://happysinn.com/ for their full summer concert line up and make a plan to rock out because if this summer's lineup is anything like last year's, these concerts will sell out!

For more information on all other events mentioned in this episode, please visit https://dailyinterlake.com/events.

#MontanaEvents #FlatheadValley #DailyInterLake #WhitefishMT #KalispellMT #MothersDay #LiveMusic #MontanaLife #ExploreMontana

Gianforte’s Fiscal Vision, Nuisance Ordinances & Youth Justice Reform gets National Spotlight

Sat, 26 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman covers the top stories shaping Northwest Montana. Governor Greg Gianforte makes a stop in Kalispell to promote his 2025 fiscal agenda, including property tax relief and teacher pay raises, despite ongoing legislative gridlock. Kalispell City Council passes new ordinances cracking down on junk vehicles and community decay, sparking debate over government reach. Plus, Flathead County’s School Justice Partnership earns national recognition for its innovative approach to juvenile justice. With a 90% success rate, the program is changing lives and setting a statewide precedent for restorative youth practices.

Read more from this week’s stories:
Gianforte presses Legislature to pass property tax relief bills during Kalispell visit
Kalispell City Council votes to amend nuisance ordinances
Flathead restorative youth justice program gains national spotlight

Read more local and state coverage:
‘Personhood’ for embryos fails, other abortion bills head to governor’s desk
Students strike a chord at the 2025 District Music Festival
Welfare check leads to barricade situation in U.S. 2 hotel
Walk to End Parkinson’s comes to Kalispell

Montana Murder Verdict, Tribal Tariff Lawsuit & Strong Snowpack Outlook

Mon, 14 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0600

This week on the News Now podcast, we break down a Flathead County murder trial verdict, a landmark tribal lawsuit against federal tariffs at the U.S.-Canada border, and promising updates on Montana's spring snowpack. Stay informed with the latest top stories from northwest Montana, reported by the Daily Inter Lake — the state's largest independent newsroom.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Jackson acquitted of killing mom, guilty of murdering her boyfriend
Blackfeet tribal members sue feds over Canada tariffs
Wet March delivers needed boost to Northwest Montana snowpack

Read more local and state coverage:
Cuts to federal humanities funds hit the Flathead Valley
Potential buyers seek permit to operate historic Holland Lake Lodge
Judge Dan Wilson launches new bid for Montana Supreme Court seat
Interior Department staff, including those at national parks, offered buyouts and early retirement

#MontanaNews #FlatheadCounty #BlackfeetNation #MontanaSnowpack #DailyInterLake #CrimeNews #TribalRights #NorthwestMontana #PodcastNews #MontanaWeather

Spring into Action: Earth Day, Theater, and April Adventures in Northwest Montana

Mon, 07 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0600

April in Northwest Montana is anything but predictable—mud, snow, sunshine, and a packed calendar of community events. In this episode, host Melissa Wells guides you through an exciting lineup of Earth Day celebrations, local theater performances, spring fairs, wildlife talks, and even dodgeball tournaments! Get the scoop on can’t-miss events like the Earth Day Expo featuring Indigikitchen’s Mariah Gladstone, Clean the Fish in Whitefish, and musical performances like The Pirates of Penzance. Plus, discover where to shop, shred, and support local artists all month long. Whether you're dancing in the rain or planting your garden, there's something for everyone this April in the Flathead Valley.

Learn more about our featured event in this episode - Montana Citizens Climate Lobby's Earth Day Expo on Saturday, April 19th from 9 am to 3 pm at the Flathead Valley Community College Arts & Technology Building. Discover how simple, sustainable choices can make a big impact on your wallet and your community. For more information, visit www.citizensclimatemt.org/earth-day-flathead-valley-montana

For more information on all other events mentioned in this episode, please visit https://dailyinterlake.com/events.

Kalispell Murder Sentencing, Food Aid Crisis, and Montana’s Immigration Debate

Sat, 05 Apr 2025 05:00:00 -0600

We're back from a short hiatus! Reporter Taylor Inman breaks down the top stories shaping Northwest Montana. We begin with the sentencing of Kaleb Elijah Fleck, who received 50 years for the brutal 2023 homicide of a homeless man in Kalispell. Then, we examine the looming crisis at Flathead Valley food banks as pandemic-era federal funding disappears, threatening access to fresh produce and dairy for thousands of Montanans. Finally, we look at the controversial immigration-related bill moving through the Montana House and the legal and moral questions it raises for hospitals, churches, and nonprofits.

Read more from this week’s stories:

Flathead man sentenced for 2023 killing of homeless man in Kalispell

Federal funding cuts leave Flathead Valley food banks looking to fill shelves

Immigration legislation advances despite strong opposition from nonprofits

Read more local and state coverage:

Jurors view body cam footage in Jackson double homicide trial

Construction to begin on Sportsman’s Bridge Fishing Access Site

Glacier National Park faces summer of uncertainty

The Magic Flight: Witnessing Montana’s Breathtaking Snow Geese Migration

Sun, 30 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600

Each spring, tens of thousands of snow geese take to the skies over Montana in a breathtaking display of nature’s power and precision. In this special episode, reporter Kate Heston journeys to Freezout Lake to witness the spectacle firsthand, capturing the awe-inspiring sights and sounds of the annual migration. With insights from birding experts and wildlife biologists, she explores why this phenomenon draws visitors from across the state, what changing conditions mean for the birds, and how the event symbolizes the arrival of spring in Montana.

Saving History, Affordable Auto Repairs & Habitat for Humanity’s Big Move

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0600

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman spotlights incredible community efforts making a difference in Northwest Montana. Shelbey Blasdel is leading the charge to restore the historic 100-year-old Blasdel Barn, while Assurance Auto in Kalispell is offering reduced-cost car repairs to help residents stay on the road. Plus, Habitat for Humanity’s Flathead chapter has revamped its ReStore space to boost affordable housing efforts. Tune in for these inspiring stories and learn how these projects are shaping the future of the Flathead Valley!

Read more from this week’s stories:

Lower Valley landmark: Effort to restore Blasdel Barn comes forward

Auto shop opens in Kalispell with charitable focus on providing affordable repairs

Habitat for Humanity turns toward building prefabricated homes

Law Roundup: Mini Donkey Chase, Mushroom Bust & Naked Man Under the Bridge

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0600

From a miniature donkey taking a stroll through town to a man burning incense mistaken for destroying evidence, this week’s Law Roundup is full of bizarre and hilarious police reports from Kalispell and beyond. Tune in for the most entertaining law enforcement calls of the week!

Read the Daily Inter Lake's latest law roundup reports - https://dailyinterlake.com/news/law-roundup/

Measles Risk in Montana, Arts Funding Cut, & Kalispell Homeless Shelter Settlement

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, Taylor Inman covers the latest health concerns as Flathead County officials prepare for a potential measles outbreak amid declining vaccination rates. Plus, state legislators strip funding from five local arts nonprofits, sparking controversy over legislative attendance rules. In Kalispell, the City Council is set to vote on a $140,000 settlement with the Flathead Warming Center, which could reinstate its permit and reshape the city’s approach to homelessness. Stay informed with the biggest headlines across Northwest Montana.

March in Montana: St. Paddy’s Parties, Gem Treasures & Adventure Films

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 20:00:00 -0700

March in Northwest Montana is packed with exciting events! From the 4th Annual Cloverfest in Columbia Falls and Brannigan’s Pub’s St. Patrick’s Day celebrations to the Gold, Gem & Mineral Show and the MountainFilm Tour, there’s something for everyone. Plus, catch live jazz from local high school bands, get the latest Glacier National Park updates, and sip craft brews at the S.N.O.W. Bus Brewfest. Tune in for a full rundown of this month’s must-attend events!

The 4th Annual Cloverfest in Columbia Falls kicks off on Saturday, March 15, 2025, featuring live music, bagpipes, a 5K & fun run, food trucks, a beer garden, and family-friendly fun. Register at https://columbiafallschamber.org/cloverfest.

Brannigan’s Pub in Kalispell hosts its Under the Tent St. Patrick’s Day Celebration from March 14-17, 2025, with live music, a pub crawl, Celtic dancers, and festive food & drink specials. Learn more at https://branniganspub.com.

The 18th Annual Gold, Gem & Mineral Show returns to the Flathead County Fairgrounds on March 22-23, 2025, with live demos, silent auctions, door prizes, and a kid-friendly interactive area. Admission is $5 for both days, and kids (middle school age & younger) get in free! More details at https://facebook.com/rockchucksrockclub.

Find all other event details at https://dailyinterlake.com/events/

Montana Voting Rights Debate, Kalispell’s $6.8M Wastewater Plan & School Lunch Funding Cut

Sat, 01 Mar 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman breaks down Montana’s heated voting rights debate as lawmakers push new restrictions on voters deemed to have an “unsound mind.” Kalispell city officials look to fast-track a $6.8 million wastewater treatment upgrade, and a legislative subcommittee votes to cut $20 million in federal funds from a summer lunch program serving over 76,000 children. Get the latest updates on these major issues affecting communities across Montana.

Read more from this week’s stories:

House GOP passes bill restricting Montana voters of “unsound mind”

Kalispell City Council poised to fast track sewage plant upgrades

Summer program to help Montana children with food cut from state budget

Read more local and state coverage:

Next phase of large conservation easement up for review

Gateway Community Center expands children’s library offerings

Somers-Lakeside School District hires new superintendent

Annual Free the Seeds focuses on gardening and food

Mass Layoffs Hit Flathead, Columbia Falls Explosion, and Glacier’s Wildfire Plan Unveiled

Sun, 23 Feb 2025 15:00:00 -0700

In case you missed them last week, we break down the biggest headlines impacting Northwest Montana. Dozens of Flathead National Forest employees were laid off amid sweeping federal workforce cuts, sparking backlash and uncertainty. In Columbia Falls, an explosion and fire rocked the Weyerhaeuser MDF plant, leaving the community shaken. Meanwhile, Glacier National Park unveils a new fire management plan that includes prescribed burns and preventative measures to combat future wildfires. Get the latest details on these major stories and what they mean for our region.

Read more local and state coverage:

Skier taps into survival skills after getting lost on Blacktail Mountain

Trump's firing of 1,000 national park workers raises concerns about maintenance and operating hours

State Supreme Court Chief Justice warns lawmakers against making judiciary partisan

Montana’s Bathroom Bill, Glacier Park Property Ruling, and Job Growth vs. Low Wages

Sat, 15 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, join reporter Taylor Inman as she covers the most pressing issues across Northwest Montana. The state legislature passes a controversial bill enforcing sex-segregated public facilities, sparking debate and potential legal challenges. A federal judge rules in favor of a private home inside Glacier National Park, raising questions about land use and conservation laws. Plus, Montana’s economy sees job growth, but wages remain low, making housing affordability a growing concern. Tune in for expert analysis on these major headlines shaping the state.

Read more from this week’s stories:

Bathroom bill clears GOP-led Legislature, poised to become law

Housing affordability remains a top economic concern for Flathead Valley

Private house in Glacier Park can remain, federal judge rules

Read more local and state coverage:

Man accused of shooting at ex brought up on felony charge

Biologists look to find out what ails South Fork elk herd

Filing deadline approaches to appear on ballots as a school board trustee candidate

Passion for wellness, Logan fitness director retires

Flathead River Rules, Mill Levy Debate, and Legislative Showdowns

Sat, 08 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Join host Taylor Inman as we unpack recent stories from this week and their implications for our community. In this episode, we dive into the proposed regulations for the Flathead River, which aim to balance the interests of paddlers, anglers, and recreationists amidst booming river traffic. We also cover the controversy surrounding two state bills that could sunset all voter-approved mill levies, potentially impacting Kalispell's emergency services. Finally, we discuss the latest legislative actions in the Montana House of Representatives, including bills on work status verification, voting and petitioning, and a resolution celebrating Donald Trump's presidency.

Read more local and state coverage:

Columbia Falls takes input on Gateway to Glacier transportation project

Washington man pulled off Amtrak train in Libby pleads guilty to federal gun charges

Major winter storm slams into Flathead Valley

Flathead’s Can’t-Miss February Events: Skijoring, Winter Carnival & More!

Sun, 02 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0700

February may be the shortest month, but it's packed with excitement in the Flathead Valley. From the high-energy action of Skijoring in Kalispell to the beloved Whitefish Winter Carnival, there's no shortage of ways to embrace winter. Music lovers can look forward to a Fleetwood Mac tribute concert, while theater fans won't want to miss the laugh-out-loud parody Spamilton or the heartfelt drama of Love Letters. Shoppers can browse unique local goods at the Kalispell Weekend Market, and history buffs will enjoy an afternoon of storytelling at the Northwest Montana History Museum. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush, live entertainment, or a cozy community gathering, this episode has everything you need to plan your perfect February.

Find all the details at dailyinterlake.com/events

Tribal Hunting Bill, Republican Medicaid Expansion Bills, & LEGO Robotics

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 05:00:00 -0700

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she reviews the week’s biggest headlines in northwest Montana. A proposed hunting bill is stirring controversy between the state and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, with concerns that it could unravel long-standing agreements and lead to legal battles. Meanwhile, Medicaid expansion is back in the legislative spotlight, with multiple bills shaping the future of healthcare access for nearly 80,000 Montanans. And in a much lighter—but no less impressive—story, young engineers put their skills to the test at the FIRST LEGO League robotics tournament, programming their autonomous machines to tackle underwater-inspired challenges.

Rare Ice Phenomenon on Whitefish Lake and Upcoming Winter Storm

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 15:00:00 -0700

A once-in-a-decade ice-skating experience had Whitefish buzzing as hundreds glided across the crystal-clear surface of Whitefish Lake. But what caused this rare phenomenon? And will it happen again? Whitefish Lake Institute's limnologist Cassie Roberts breaks down the science behind wild ice, why it's so rare, and what this tells us about climate patterns. Plus a major winter storm is set to hit the region by the weekend, bringing snow, freezing rain, and an arctic blast that could shake up conditions fast.

Whooping Cough Outbreak, Outlaw Inn’s Future, and Logging History Revived in Northwest Montana

Sat, 25 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman is covering the stories making waves in Northwest Montana. Flathead County sees a spike in whooping cough cases, sparking public health concerns and calls for increased vaccination awareness. The vacant Outlaw Inn property in Kalispell moves closer to a possible foreclosure sale, with new security measures in place to prevent further vandalism. Plus, the Northwest Montana History Museum unveils an updated exhibit on the region’s rich timber history, featuring interactive displays and fascinating local stories.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Outlaw Inn may see new owner following foreclosure
Northwest Montana History Museum showcases Flathead Valley's timber industry
Whooping cough cases jump in Flathead Valley | Daily Inter Lake

Read more local and state coverage:
Former Proud Boys leader and Oath Keepers founder released after Trump offers Jan. 6 clemency
Kalispell mayor will not seek reelection
Kalispell lawmaker proposes tighter enforcement of worker verification laws
Woman accused of pulling out knife at hospital pleads not guilty to felony charge | Dail

Winter Events in Northwest Montana: Comedy, Culture, and Community Connections

Mon, 20 Jan 2025 08:00:00 -0700

Start 2025 off right with this week’s lineup of must-attend events in Northwest Montana! From PechaKucha’s dynamic Art + Design presentations to Burns Night at the Conrad Mansion, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy comedy with Alex Velluto, global photography by Chuck Haney, and inspiring talks from Glacier Park experts. Plus, hear about Scottish traditions and the Changemaker Speaker Series featuring Grand Canyon adventurer Kevin Fedarko. Whether you’re stepping out of your comfort zone or reconnecting with your community, these events are sure to inspire.

Discover all these events on our online calendar! dailyinterlake.com/events

Montana Firefighters in LA, Kalispell Housing Debate, and Flathead Warming Center Updates

Sat, 18 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman unpacks the most significant stories impacting Northwest Montana. Local firefighters join the fight against devastating wildfires in Los Angeles, while Kalispell Mayor Mark Johnson’s shifting stance on workforce housing funding sparks debate. Plus, the Flathead Warming Center launched new initiatives to foster collaboration and address homelessness concerns.

Read more from this week’s show:
Montana fire crews answer California’s call, fight LA area fires
Kalispell mayor says he opposed housing funding despite letter supporting it
Flathead Warming Center launches new initiatives amid legal fight with Kalispell

Gravity-Defying Freeride Action: Highlights from Whitefish Mountain Resort’s IFSA Junior Competition

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 12:00:00 -0700

Whitefish Mountain Resort hosted an adrenaline-packed IFSA Junior Freeride competition last weekend, showcasing skiers and snowboarders aged 12–18 on the challenging East Rim and Haskill Slide runs. Despite a fog-shortened first day, competitors delivered thrilling performances with daring lines and jaw-dropping feats. This episode highlights the standout athletes, including local stars from the Whitefish Mountain Freestyle Team and riders from across the region. Celebrate the young talent pushing the boundaries of freeride sports and hear about what made this event unforgettable.

Montana Snowpack Surges, Grizzly Protections Debate, and Animal Cruelty Case Update

Sat, 11 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week’s top stories in Northwest Montana, reporter Taylor Inman highlights shifting weather patterns, legal updates, and wildlife protections. The region’s mountain snowpack is well above average, signaling potential drought relief, while Kalispell faces its fourth warmest December on record. Federal wildlife officials announce continued grizzly bear protections amid pushback from some states, stirring debate on balancing species recovery with human conflicts. Plus, a Libby man pleads not guilty to animal cruelty charges in a case involving two emaciated dogs. Join us as we unpack these important stories shaping our community and beyond.

Read more from this week’s show:
Northwest Montana snowpack trending ahead of normal
U.S. will keep protecting more than 2,000 Rocky Mountain grizzly bears
Libby man pleads not guilty to animal cruelty charges

Read more local and state coverage:
Whitefish ski resort sets holiday visitation record
Steamboat Landing subdivision heads back to county planning board
Suspected meth dealer back behind bars
Kalispell to curb parking on section of Fifth Avenue West

Snow Report for Whitefish Mountain Resort ❄️ First Week of 2025

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0700

Whitefish Pilot reporter Julie Engler muses that Whitefish starts off the new year with snowy bliss! Locals and guests celebrated in harmony, wrapping up the holiday rush. Now, the mountain’s quieter, the slopes are open, and the snow is calling.

Yellowstone Bison Lawsuit, Avalanche Close Calls, and a Tragic New Year’s Crash

Sat, 04 Jan 2025 05:00:00 -0700

This week, reporter Taylor Inman covers the stories making waves in northwest Montana. The state of Montana sues Yellowstone National Park over its updated bison management plan, alleging federal overreach and procedural missteps. A tragic New Year’s Day car crash near Creston claims a life, with DUI and speed suspected as factors. Meanwhile, heightened avalanche danger near Whitefish Mountain Resort results in six human-triggered slides, including a harrowing survival story.

Read more from this week’s show:
Montana sues Yellowstone National Park over bison management plan
Kalispell woman killed in New Year's Day collision near Creston
Avalanche partially buries skier in popular backcountry area near Whitefish Mountain Resort

Read more local and state coverage:
Federal judge to hear arguments next week in Glacier National Park house case
Flathead Lake Biological Station saw no invasive species slipped into local waters this past summer
Holmquist to chair county commissioners
Jury convicts Ronan man of exposing his child to fentanyl

EXPLORE Act, Corrections Lawsuit, and Glacier’s Student Builders

Sat, 28 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0700

This week on News Now, reporter Taylor Inman covers Montana’s top stories shaping local and national conversations. The U.S. Senate passes the historic EXPLORE Act, with major wins for Montana public lands and outdoor recreation. The Montana Department of Corrections filed a lawsuit against Flathead County over the denied prerelease center proposal, raising questions about public safety and local governance. Plus, Glacier National Park’s partnership with Columbia Falls High School continues to thrive as students craft employee housing for remote wilderness locations. Tune in for the latest on Montana’s biggest developments!

Read more from this week’s show:
State sues Flathead County over prerelease center decision
US Senate passes sweeping national outdoor recreation package
Students continue program constructing new Glacier National Park housing

Read more local and state coverage:
Many Glacier set to be focus of Glacier Park projects in 2025
Culture and history focus of annual John White Series
Dazzling Christmas light show awes viewers while giving to nonprofit
Expanding rural access: UM debuts online school counseling program

Snow Report for Whitefish Mountain Resort ❄️ Christmas Day Edition

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 13:00:00 -0700

Whitefish Pilot reporter Julie Engler braved the crowds yesterday at Whitefish Mountain Resort yesterday! Hope everyone is having a fun and safe holiday out there.

New Year’s in Montana: Torchlight Parades, Live Music, and Epic Parties You Can’t Miss!

Thu, 26 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0700

Ring in the New Year Montana-style! From Whitefish Mountain Resort’s torchlight parade and fireworks to the Lil Smokies rocking the Great Northern Bar, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate. Dance the night away at Whitefish’s DJ-fueled party at the O’Shaughnessy Center, catch a 1920s-themed bash at the Dew Drop Inn, or solve a neon-drenched murder mystery at Kalispell’s Waters Edge Winery. Whether it’s jazz, bluegrass, or a daring Polar Plunge in Bigfork, we’ve got all the details to make your New Year unforgettable. Let’s toast to 2025!

Events mentioned in this episode:
New Year's Eve Torchlight Parade and Fireworks Tickets
New Year's Eve Celebration at The Boat Club
New Year's Eve Party at The Firebrand
Daily Inter Lake Lil Smokies
NYE with Defunk and Amp Live
New Years Eve 1999 Bash at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro!
New Year's Eve party at the Blue Moon-music by Whiskey Rose

Montana’s Climate Ruling, Oath Keepers Controversy Explained, Landmark Conservation Deal

Sat, 21 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0700

This week, we unpack three of Montana's biggest stories. The Montana Supreme Court upholds a historic climate ruling, solidifying residents’ constitutional right to a clean environment while raising questions about the state’s energy future. We break down the chilling implications of potential pardons for Capitol rioters, including Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes. Plus, a groundbreaking conservation easement secures 33,000 acres of forestland, protecting wildlife and public access for generations to come. Stay informed with the news shaping our state and beyond.

Read more from this week’s show:
Global warming can't be ignored, Montana's top court says
Judge: Pardoning Oath Keepers leader Stewart Rhodes would be 'frightening'
Land Board approves 33,000-acre conservation easement in northwest Montana

Read more local and state coverage:
Landfill deer to be killed to help control CWD
Burglary case dismissed after suspect deemed unfit
UM professor’s new movie to air on Oprah Network
Car dealership donates van to veterans organization

A Christmas Conversation: Exclusive Interview with Santa Claus

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 14:00:00 -0700

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman chats with Jolly Saint Nick himself before he prepares to fly around the world and deliver a joyful holiday for all children. He talks about elves hard at work making presents, but also of his love for the Valley’s Alpine Theater Project. He may make a special appearance during The Yuletide Affair this weekend, running Dec. 20-22.

The Yuletide Affair is an annual holiday production from the Alpine Theater Project, and the show this year marks the 21st year in production. The show starts at 7 p.m. on Dec. 20 and 21, with the Sunday showing on Dec. 22 beginning at 6:30 p.m.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit atpwhitefish.org/shows/2024/ya-21

Special thanks to Joel Welle for helping with this episode!

Columbia Falls Pursuit, Flathead County’s Tuberculosis Case and Kalispell’s Biosolids Debate

Sat, 14 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0700

This week’s headlines in Northwest Montana highlight key local developments: A man faces consequences after a dangerous pursuit involving firearms in Columbia Falls. Health officials have contained an active tuberculosis case in Flathead County, ensuring no ongoing public risk. Meanwhile, Kalispell City Council is reevaluating its biosolids disposal strategy amid concerns over PFAS contamination. Stay informed with the stories shaping our community.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Health officials say active tuberculosis case in Flathead County is under control
Suspect in armed vehicle chase given suspended sentences
Kalispell moving away from composting biosolids

Read more local and state coverage:
A band of frustrated neighbors, homeless people tidy up Kalispell's defunct Outlaw Inn
Ski patrol union frustrated with negotiation timeline
Montana media organizations petition to join right-to-know lawsuit
Kalispell resident learns to put health first following stroke
Blacktail ski area to open for season on Friday

Snow Report for Whitefish Mountain Resort ❄️ Second Week of December

Fri, 13 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0700

Pray for snow this weekend! Here's our report on ski conditions from Whitefish Mountain Resort this week.

December Delights: Holiday Events You Can't Miss in Northwest Montana

Mon, 09 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0700

No bah humbugs here! Northwest Montana is bursting with holiday cheer this December, and we’ve got the ultimate guide to help you sleigh the season. From the Flathead Wildlife Hunter Celebration to Voctave’s holiday concert, and an epic encore screening of Raising Hell Roaring – The Big Mountain Story, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy Christmas teas at the historic Conrad Mansion, magical downtown strolls, benefit concerts, and family-friendly festivities like Santa sightings and gingerbread contests. Whether caroling through Whitefish or sipping cocoa with the kids, these events will fill your heart with holiday joy.

Events mentioned in this episode:
Flathead Wildlife Hunter Celebration
VOCTAVE: It Feels Like Christmas
Raising Hell Roaring
Christmas Stroll ~ Downtown Whitefish 2024
Black Rifle's Cocoa with Claus
A Christmas Tea Party and Tour at the Conrad Mansion
Winter Benefit Concert with John Flordis
Valley Voices Christmas Concert

Libby Fire Displaces Elderly Man, Smith Lake Dam Threatened, and Fatal Crashes Near Bigfork

Sat, 07 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0700

Daily Inter Lake reporter and podcast host Taylor Inman goes over some of the week’s biggest headlines for northwest Montana. A devastating house fire leaves a Libby man homeless, beaver activity threatens the Smith Lake dam in Whitefish, and two separate fatal crashes near Bigfork raise concerns about road safety.

Read more from this week’s show:
Libby man hospitalized following Thanksgiving weekend house fire
Beaver activity threatens Whitefish's Smith Lake dam
Kalispell woman killed in head-on collision near Bigfork
Intoxication, speed suspected in fatal crash near Bigfork

Local Events: Big Mountain Opening and Holiday Festivities to Kick Off Your Winter Season

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 05:00:00 -0700

It’s opening week on Big Mountain, and winter fun is in full swing! This episode highlights the Flathead Valley’s must-attend events, including the Showcase of Chefs, Kalispell Holiday Stroll, and a Nordic Lutefisk dinner. Don’t miss live performances like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical and the Gypsy Theatre Guild’s A Christmas Carol. Plus, check out festive markets, local music, and more to make your week merry and bright. Tune in and start planning your holiday season!

Flathead Valley Ski Education Foundation - FVSEF Showcase of the Chef - PRAY FOR SNOW 2024
RUDOLPH THE RED-NOSED REINDEER: THE MUSICAL
Daily Inter Lake -- Holmes for Holidays
Press Play with Denim Gold
Nordic Lutefisk & Meatball Dinner
Holiday Pop-Up at Depot Park
A Christmas Carol Radio Broadcast
Gypsy Theatre Guild's "A Christmas Carol"
Crafty Women Holiday Market and Soroptimist International Bake Sale
4th Annual Holiday Makers Market at

Bigfork Fire leader dismissed, Coram Standoff, and Evergreen’s New Sidewalks

Sat, 30 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0700

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter and News Now host Taylor Inman as we go over some of the week’s top stories for northwest Montana. From the Bigfork Fire District’s decision to terminate a lieutenant over misconduct allegations to a tense standoff in Coram involving attempted homicide charges, we bring you the stories making waves. Plus, we celebrate the completion of Phase 1 of Evergreen’s long-awaited sidewalk project, improving safety for students and pedestrians. Stay informed with the latest news from the Flathead Valley.

Read more from this week’s show:
Bigfork Fire lieutenant dismissed following misconduct investigation
Suspect in Coram standoff allegedly assaulted teen, shot at relatives
New sidewalks create safer route through Evergreen

Read more local and state coverage:
In Montana, conservative groups see chance to kill Medicaid expansion
Most classes return to Columbia Falls High School, but work remains on classroom wing
A closer look: New Kalispell precinct goes all blue while one Whitefish area leans red in governor's race
News Now: Strengthening community with the Flathead Food Bank

Local Events for Thanksgiving Week: Turkey Trot, Nutcracker, Live Music, and Season of Soul 3.0!

Sun, 24 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0700

The holidays are here, and Flathead Valley is buzzing with festive fun! There's something for everyone from the Whitefish Turkey Trot and community dinners to the 36th annual Nutcracker production in Bigfork. Don’t miss Season of Soul 3.0 in Whitefish, local pie auctions, and live music from amazing talents like John Dunnigan, Wild Wind, and Denim Gold. Whether you’re hosting guests or looking to get out of the house, tune in for a full rundown of events that make this season merry and bright!

Find all events at dailyinterlake.com/events, and here's the list of events mentioned in this episode:
Amazing Place Music Presents Season of Soul 3.0
Flathead Festival of Lights
Pie Auction with Land to Hand MT
Free Community Thanksgiving Dinner
The Northwest Ballet Company's 36th "NUTCRACKER"
Whitefish Turkey Trot
Live Acoustic Jazz with Joe Procita
Joe Zambrano "Cup O' Joe"

Conversation with Flathead Food Bank: Preparing for Holiday Drives

Wed, 20 Nov 2024 13:00:00 -0700

The Flathead Food Bank is preparing to distribute 750 Thanksgiving meals on Nov. 22 and 600 Christmas meals on Dec. 20, but it takes a village to make it happen. In reporter Taylor Inman's interview with Director Chris Sidmore, he shares the immense effort of staff, volunteers, and community partners to support families in need. From a $20,000 donation by Kalispell Auto Group to fund food programs for local kids, to $85,000 and countless volunteer hours from Applied Materials, the generosity of this community is inspiring.

Learn more about how you can help at https://flatheadfoodbank.org/

Gov. Gianforte honors veterans, Warming Center supporters show solidarity with homeless, and another Montana elk tests positive for CWD

Sat, 16 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Read more from this week’s stories:

Four Flathead Valley veterans receive award from Gianforte | Daily Inter Lake

Flathead Warming Center supporters take to the streets to show solidarity with homeless population | Daily Inter Lake

Another Montana elk tests positive for CWD | Daily Inter Lake

Read more local and state coverage:

Shelter WF housing design competition showcases fresh ideas | Daily Inter Lake

Timed ticketed entry for Glacier National Park next summer brings mixed reactions | Daily Inter Lake

Columbia Falls takes top spot at speech and debate tournament | Daily Inter Lake

Students put finishing touches on mural for Libby's Peace Officer Park | Daily Inter Lake

Civil rights investigation into Kalispell Public Schools involves softball schedules, district officials say | Daily Inter Lake

Kalispell's Matt Regier elected Senate president | Daily Inter Lake

Local Events: Fall Festivities & Community Spirit in Montana

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0700

November in Montana means more than chilly mornings and snowy peaks; it’s a season full of community celebrations, cozy gatherings, and festive shopping events. From the upcoming Season of Soul concert in Whitefish to Ladies Nights out in Columbia Falls and Whitefish, we cover the best local happenings. We’ll highlight holiday markets, the Fair Trade Gift Festival, Warren Miller’s latest ski film, and even a book festival featuring Montana authors.

Montana Elections & High-Speed Drama: Key Results and a Police Chase in Flathead Valley

Sat, 09 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0700

In this episode, we dive into the top stories shaping northwest Montana. We cover the latest election results, including significant wins in Flathead Valley and the passage of a historic constitutional amendment on abortion rights. Then, we switch gears to a dramatic police chase through Kalispell that ended in an arrest, giving insight into how law enforcement worked together to bring it to a safe close.

Read more from this week’s show:
GOP dominates Flathead races; two Democrats headed to Legislature
Police chase through Kalispell ends with arrest
Montanans back abortion amendment, nix election reform initiatives

Read more state and local coverage:
Brodehl retains seat as county commissioner
Republican Tim Sheehy defeats Jon Tester for Senate seat
Flathead County voters cited abortion, economy and immigration as top concerns
Gov. Gianforte wins a second term over challenger Ryan Busse
Zinke wins reelection, again defeating Tranel

Bird Flu Outbreak, Holland Lake Lodge Controversy & Kalispell Cruising Debate

Sat, 02 Nov 2024 05:00:00 -0600

On this week’s episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman brings you the latest headlines across Northwest Montana. We’re covering a bird flu case discovered in a backyard poultry flock in Flathead County, an inside look at the contract for Holland Lake Lodge’s sale, and the Kalispell City Council’s decision to abandon controversial legislation to limit downtown cruising. Get in-depth reporting and expert insights on the stories that matter most to our communities.

Don’t forget election day is November 5! Read local candidate profiles and election coverage at dailyinterlake.com/news/local-elections/

Read more from this week’s stories:
Bird flu found in backyard flock in Flathead County
Kalispell City Council abandons legislation limiting downtown cruising
Contract in place for Holland Lake Lodge sale

Read more local and state coverage:
Troy seeks new mayor after abrupt resignation
Plane that crashed into Hungry Horse Reservoir last year ran out of gas
Fish and Wildlife Commission issues proposed wolf trapping season regulations
Driven by learning: Flathead High School autom

Local Events: Halloween Thrills & Cowboy Tunes

Mon, 28 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0600

Get ready for a wild week of spooky fun and legendary music! From Kalispell’s first Pumpkin Stroll to a haunted trivia night at the Gunsight Saloon, we’re diving into all the Halloween thrills the Flathead Valley has to offer. But the real treat is coming November 1st with Wylie Gustafson of Wylie and the Wild West headlining our Press Play concert series. Enjoy an exclusive night of yodeling and cowboy tunes, hosted by the Daily Inter Lake.

Visit www.dailyinterlake.com/events to check out all the events mentioned this week. If you've got a moment, check out our interview with Wylie Gustafson on our Press Play podcast, it was a hoot!

Conversation with Hike 734's Jake Bramante

Sat, 26 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman joins Hike 734's Jake Bramante on a fall hike to Firebrand Pass, where they pause in a golden aspen grove to chat about map-making, hiking in Glacier, and the joys of the outdoors. They discuss Jake's incredible journey of hiking all 734 miles of trails in Glacier National Park in a single summer. From his corporate job in IT to creating topographical maps and trail guides, his story is one of passion, persistence, and exploration. Learn how Jake turned his love for nature into a thriving business, the challenges he faced, and the unforgettable experiences he’s had along the way. Whether you're a hiking enthusiast or curious about embarking on your own adventure, this episode will inspire you to hit the trails!

Information about Jake and Hike734 can be found at www.hike734.com.

Local Events: Spooky Season in Full Swing & Montana’s Got Talent

Sun, 20 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0600

It’s time to dust off the costumes and dive into Halloween festivities! Join us as we recount our thrilling adventure through the Glacier Gallows haunted forest (some of us barely made it out!). We’ll give you the scoop on all the spooktacular events happening around town—haunted houses, trunk-or-treats, and even a Monster Mash for the grown-ups. Plus, don’t miss Montana’s Got Talent this weekend! Get ready for a frightfully fun episode that’ll have you howling with excitement.

Events mentioned in this episode:
Halloween Spooktacular in Columbia Falls
Trunk or Treat at Moose Lodge in Evergreen
Glacier Range Riders' Trunk or Treat
Monster Mash at Kalispell Eagles with Glacier Queer Alliance
Ben Darce at Whitefish Community Center
No Man's Land Film Fest
Montana's Got Talent

Political Clashes, Youth Hunting Traditions, and School Discrimination Investigations

Sat, 19 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, we dive into the heated political battle between Democratic congressional hopeful Monica Tranel and GOP U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke over alleged illegal vacation rentals in Whitefish. We also cover the overlap of Montana’s deer and elk archery season with youth hunting days, highlighting safety concerns and traditions. Additionally, we discuss the U.S. Department of Education’s investigation into discrimination complaints in Kalispell, Whitefish, and Polson school districts.

Read more from this week’s stories:

Rental highlighted in Tranel attack ad is legal, Whitefish officials say
Caution advised as youth rifle hunt overlaps with archery season
U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights opens investigations in Kalispell, Whitefish and Polson

Read more local and state coverage:
Sampling shows treatment of forever chemicals at Grandview Wells site working
Montana Land Board to vote on large conservation easement west of Kalispell
Lack of progress at former Outlaw Inn property leaves eyesore for south Kalispell
Presentation looks at peculiar attractions along Montana's highways

Keep up

Local Events: Fall Fun Awaits with Owls, Cabarets, and Mystery Solving!

Mon, 14 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0600

Get ready for an event-packed week with the Local Events podcast! We're covering everything from cheeky cabarets in Whitefish and beer-fueled fish talks, to owl banding at Yellow Bay and a spooky Halloween murder mystery. Whether you're in the mood for delicious soups, theater productions, or live music tributes to legends like David Bowie and Elvis, this episode has something for everyone. Dive in and discover the best events to fill your October with excitement and fun!

Events mentioned in this episode:
Whitefish Cabaret
Bugs in the Basement, the Hidden Stoneflies of the Flathead River
Saw Whet Owl Banding Station Field Trip with Flathead Audubon Society
Changemaker Speaker Series: Jamie Metzl
17th Annual Soup for Supper
Halloween Murder Mystery Party at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro
Whitefish Theatre Company's Almost Maine
Classic Albums Live: David Bowie- Ziggy Stardust

Kalispell Lawsuit, Tragic Explosion, and Glacier's New Haunted Adventure

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode of News Now, reporter Taylor Inman dives into the biggest stories shaking northwest Montana. The Flathead Warming Center is fighting to stay open after a dramatic lawsuit against the city of Kalispell – will the shelter be forced to shut down just as winter hits? Plus, tragedy strikes in Columbia Falls with a deadly explosion, leaving a community in shock. On a lighter note, we explore Glacier Gallows, the new haunted attraction that’s terrifying visitors all October long. Tune in for all the details and stay informed with your local news!

Read more from this week’s stories:
Flathead Warming Center files federal lawsuit against Kalispell
Man killed in Columbia Falls shop explosion
Outdoor fright trail scares up Halloween entertainment

Read more local and state coverage:
Library Commission discusses definition of ‘young adult’
Montana Supreme Court temporarily blocks abortion restrictions
Photos from Flathead Nation students on display at Bigfork library
Flathead High School auto teacher surprised with $50,000 prize
Former Wh

Local Events: Fall Into Fun with Music, Festivals, and Autumn Adventures

Sun, 06 Oct 2024 05:00:00 -0600

As the crisp fall air arrives in Northwest Montana, so do an array of exciting events! From the Downtown in the Round music festival in Whitefish, featuring top songwriters from across the country, to quilt sales, silent auctions, and harvest festivals, there's something for everyone this weekend. Whether you're tuning in for great music, fundraising for local causes, or simply looking to embrace the season with flu shots and fun activities, this episode will guide you to the best of what October has to offer.

Downtown in the Round is in Whitefish's venues Second Story, Remington Bar, Great Northern, and Slow Burn Records from October 11-13, 2024! This intimate celebration of songwriting brings together hall-of-famers, radio hitmakers, and emerging talent to share their songs and the stories behind them in a relaxed, Nashville-style "in-the-round" format. Learn more here.

Other events mentioned in this episode:
Downtown in the Round presented by Big Sky Troubadours
Silent Auction Fundraiser at Bonsai
2024 Annual Flu Clinic
Bingo at The Sitting Duck on Flathead Lake
Teakettle Quilt Guild 2024 Harvest Quilt & Craft Sale

Local Events: Songwriting Legends, Forest Bathing, and Weekend Thrills

Sun, 29 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

It's another beautiful fall week in Montana, and we've got an exciting lineup of events to keep you entertained! From the Downtown in the Round, featuring Nashville's finest songwriters, to a peaceful forest bathing walk, there's something for everyone. Plus, don't miss Miller Campbell’s live performance at the Daily Inter Lake for Press Play and the electrifying beats of Nick Ferrington. Ready for a run? The Whitefish Trail Blazer races are also on deck. Tune in to plan your perfect week!

Downtown in the Round is in Whitefish's venues Second Story, Remington Bar, Great Northern, and Slow Burn Records from October 11-13, 2024! This intimate celebration of songwriting brings together hall-of-famers, radio hitmakers, and emerging talent to share their songs and the stories behind them in a relaxed, Nashville-style "in-the-round" format. Learn more here.

Other events mentioned this week:
Press Play with Miller Campbell
Fall Forest Bathing Walk
Area 406 Presents Nick Ferrington: Return To The Remington
Black Violin - BV20: Then & Now at Wachholz College Center
Whitefish Trail Blazer

Grizzly Bear Attack, Flathead Lake’s Comeback, and Montana’s Overseas Voting Ballot Mix-Up

Sat, 28 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this week's headlines, we cover three major stories making waves in northwest Montana. A grizzly bear encounter on the Highline Trail left one hiker injured but prepared hikers fought back with bear spray. Next, we dive into the recovery of Flathead Lake’s water levels after last year’s drastic lows. Finally, we discuss the recent error in Montana’s overseas voting system that briefly omitted Kamala Harris’ name from ballots.

Read more from this week’s show:
Glacier hikers use bear spray to fend off grizzly attack
More rain, slower snowmelt kept Flathead Lake at full pool, officials say
Kamala Harris back on Montana’s overseas ballot

Local Events: Stories, Movies, and Musical Adventures in Northwest Montana

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Local Events, we explore a week filled with engaging local festivities, starting with a Spoken Word Story Workshop at the Whitefish Community Center and a screening of "Monty Python and the Holy Grail" at the Northwest Montana History Museum. Discover the breathtaking Grand Canyon with award-winning teacher Linda Smith, and check out the REzMaDe exhibit showcasing Flathead Nation student photographers at the Bigfork Library. We also highlight Oktoberfest in Whitefish, live music from Chilean artist Nano Stern, and the culinary delights at the Festival of Flavors. Join us as we dive into the vibrant community activities that make fall a season to celebrate!

Find all events on our online calendar - dailyinterlake.com/events

Homeless shelter loses permit, grizzly bear euthanized, and conservation lawsuit against National Park Service

Sat, 21 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this week's episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman dives into the heated Kalispell City Council decision to revoke the Flathead Warming Center’s permit, igniting debates on homelessness and community safety. We also explore the euthanization of a grizzly bear in Libby, highlighting the ongoing challenges of human-wildlife conflict. Additionally, we discuss a lawsuit filed by conservation groups against federal agencies over a controversial trout reintroduction project in Glacier National Park. Join us as we unpack these pressing issues affecting our community.

Read more of these stories:
Kalispell City Council revokes overnight homeless shelter's permit
Grizzly bear euthanized south of Libby
Conservation groups file federal lawsuit against National Park Service over Gunsight Lake project

Read more local and state coverage:
Whitefish voters approve bonds for school expansion, new football stadium
Trio of Northwest Montana snowmobile clubs poised to receive state funding
Columbia Falls' budget calls for tax increases
Gianforte honors Vietnam vet in Alberton

Community Conversation: Flathead Quilter’s Guild

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman chats with Audrey Hyvonen of the Flathead Quilter’s Guild about their fall quilt show that will feature the area’s most beautiful quilts, vendors from around the region, a raffle quilt, and more fun activities for the entire family.

Flathead Quilters’ Guild’s “Think Modern, Montana!” quilt show on Friday, Sept. 20, from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Expo Building. Learn more about this year’s show

Read about this year’s featured quilter Merrie Ford

Glacier Dispatch: Wild Encounters and Warnings

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

From wild pine martens hitching rides to hoverboarders on the lake, Glacier National Park’s rangers have been busy! Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she dives into recent park dispatch reports that range from life-saving rescues to quirky wildlife encounters. It’s a glimpse into the unpredictable and often adventurous life inside the park.

Fall Fun and Festivities: Bears, Books, and Oktoberfest!

Sun, 15 Sep 2024 17:00:00 -0600

Get ready for cozy fall vibes and exciting local events in this week's Local Events episode! Celebrate Bear Awareness Month with a guided hike on the Whitefish Trail, discover the beauty of birdwatching with Flathead Audubon, and enjoy musical performances at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center. Don’t forget to check out the Flathead Library’s annual book sale and gear up for the Great Northwest Oktoberfest. With so much to explore, let us help you find your next best time in Northwest Montana!

Find all events on our online calendar! Events mentioned in this week's episode:

Fall Bear Aware Hike
On The Stage with Mike Eldred – INSPIRED! | Amazing Place Music
Badrock Canyon WMA Birding Field Trip
Birds of Prey ID Workshop at Wild Wings Raptor Recovery Center
Jewel Basin Hawk Watch Field Trip
Ethical Material Sourcing Discussion Panel
Friends of Flathead County Library Book Sale
The Great Northwest Oktoberfest

The Daily Inter Lake is celebrating its 135th birthday with a special subscription offer of only $19.50 per month for a home-delivered newspaper plus f

Helicopter Under Fire, Prescribed Burns in Flathead Valley, and Lightning Strike Recovery: This Week’s Top Stories

Sat, 14 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

On this episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman covers the latest major headlines from northwest Montana. We delve into last week’s armed standoff involving Two Bear Air, where the helicopter crew was targeted by gunfire and a laser sight. Plus, we look at the prescribed burns taking place around the Flathead Valley. Finally, we discuss the miraculous recovery of a Glacier High School student after a lightning strike and the ongoing community support. The Daily Inter Lake is celebrating 135 years with a special offer: $19.50/month for home delivery plus full digital access to newspapers. Call 406-755-7018 to subscribe and support local journalism!

Read more of these stories:
Suspect shot at Two Bear Air during standoff, sheriff says
Prescribed fires slated around the Flathead Valley
Glacier High School student injured in lightning strike released from ICU

Read more local and state coverage:
Gianforte honors veterans, remembers 9/11 in Kalispell
Remembering 9/11, foundation hosts 10th Patriot Day ceremony in Bigfork
Tester urges Biden administration to support Noxon Bridge replacement
Presentation uncovers unusual aspects of historic tales

Conversation with 'Out to Pasture' Director Kier Atherton: Mystery Comedy Film Premiering in Whitefish

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 10:00:00 -0600

Reporter Taylor Inman chatted with local filmmaker and internationally renowned cinematographer Kier Atherton, who is presenting his sophomore feature film, Out to Pasture, at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Sept. 15, at 7:30 p.m. This Montana premiere offers audiences a special opportunity to experience the film before its wide release. Tickets are available online and at the door which opens at 7 pm.

The film stars French actor Théo Trifard and features a talented cast, including Flathead locals Rob Quist, Grave River, Annemarie Jones, Mikey Winn, and Mike Eldred. Out to Pasture first premiered in Paris this August at La Maison des Auteurs, and now Whitefish will host its first theatrical screening in the U.S. After the screening, stay for an engaging Q&A session with the cast and crew. Don't miss this chance to dive into the world of independent film and connect with the creative team behind it!

Conversation with Flathead Building Association

Mon, 09 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman chats with Flathead Building Association Executive Director Mark Freidline and Committee Chair Rocheal Gaston of Direct Source Cabinets about 2024's upcoming Flathead Valley Parade of Homes. They said it’s one of their favorite events of the year as they get to show off the craftsmanship of the valley’s many skilled contractors.

The Parade of Homes' VIP Bus Tour & Awards Night and Awards Night is on Friday, September 13th. It will be open to the general public on Saturday, September 14th from 10 am - 6 pm. Buy tickets and find out more info here.

Golden Retrievers, Movie Premiere, Roller Derby & Outdoor Adventures: Can’t-Miss Events in Northwest Montana

Sun, 08 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

This week on the Local Events podcast, we’ve got something for everyone! Hone your photography skills on the Whitefish Trail, craft stacker rings at Waters Edge Winery, or search for fairies at the Conrad Mansion. Don’t miss the intimate concert with Big Sky City Lights at the Press Play lunch series, or grab your pup for the adorable Goldenstock event in Whitefish. From roller derby to museum tours, Northwest Montana is packed with excitement—tune in to find your next adventure!

Don't miss the Montana premiere of the feature film, Out To Pasture, filmed in Montana and starring French actor, Theo Trifard, Montana's renowned entertainer Rob Quist, and Broadway actor, Mike Eldred. Learn more here!

Check out all events on dailyinterlake.com/events

Events mentioned in this episode:
Press Play with Big Sky City Lights
Photography on the Trail
Ring Making Class
Fairy Walks in the Conrad Mansion's Gardens
Glacier-Two Medicine Alliance Fall Gathering
Goldenstock 2024
Festival of Flavors Homecoming

Reward for Missing Paddleboarder, Sheehy’s Controversial Remarks, and Kalispell Prerelease Center Proposal

Sat, 07 Sep 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman covers the week's top headlines in northwest Montana. The family of missing paddleboarder Emily Rea is offering a $25,000 reward for information leading to her whereabouts. Tribal leaders urge U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy to apologize for remarks made about Native Americans. Additionally, the Montana Department of Corrections proposes a 90-bed prerelease facility in Kalispell, prompting public meetings and discussions.

Website for more information about Emily Rea - https://eyesforemily.softr.app/

Read more of these stories:
Family of missing paddleboarder offers $25,000 for tips leading to her return
Sheehy faces scrutiny for derogatory comments about Native Americans
Prerelease facility proposed for former hotel site in Kalispell

Conversation with Job Service Kalispell Workforce about Upcoming Job Fair

Fri, 06 Sep 2024 15:00:00 -0600

The Northwest Montana Job Fair is on Sept. 25, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the Flathead County Fairgrounds Trade Center Building. Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman speaks with Job Service Kalispell Workforce Consultant Neal Drakeage and James Graham about everything they have planned for this fall’s fair, including benefits for veterans and prizes for employers.

Are you a business who would like to participate? Visit https://workforceflathead.com/employers/home/ to learn more. Reach out to Sunny Carlon at the Daily Inter Lake at 406-758-4465 or scarlon@dailyinterlake.com with any questions you may have.

And watch the Sunday, September 22, Daily Inter Lake for more Job Fair information; visit www. workforceflathead.com/ to see which businesses have registered.

Fall into Fun: Exploring Northwest Montana's Early September Events

Sun, 01 Sep 2024 20:00:00 -0600

As the air cools and the crowds thin, it's the perfect time to explore all that Northwest Montana has to offer. This week's lineup includes historic downtown walking tours, lively poolside parties, engaging concerts, and family-friendly events. The Local Events podcast highlights these opportunities to help you make the most of the season. Discover your next adventure with a variety of activities designed to capture the spirit of early fall in the region.

Unexpected Snowfall, Tragic Accidents, and a Mountaineer's Final Climb: This Week in Northwest Montana

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman covers the week's top stories in Northwest Montana. An unexpected August snowfall blankets Whitefish Mountain Resort, Glacier National Park, and surrounding areas, temporarily closing parts of the Going-to-the-Sun Road. In other news, a tragic car accident near Kila claims the life of a 26-year-old Oregon man. Kalispell police arrest a suspect in connection with bullet holes found in downtown businesses, and the body of missing mountaineer Grant Marcuccio is recovered in Glacier National Park after a solo climb. Tune in for more details on these stories and what’s ahead for the region.

Glacier National Park Incident Logs: Rescue Missions, Wildlife Encounters, and Bear Spray Blunders

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:00:00 -0600

Join us for the latest dispatch logs from Glacier National Park. This week’s incidents range from dizzy hikers and sheep jams to one very unfortunate bear spray mishap. From rescue operations and wildlife encounters to managing sudden storms, get an inside look at the efforts that keep visitors safe in one of Montana’s most beloved natural treasures.

Local Events: Big Sky City Lights, Movies, Art, and More!

Mon, 26 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we highlight upcoming community events in Northwest Montana, including a live performance by Big Sky City Lights at the Daily Inter Lake's Press Play lunch concert. We also cover movie night at the Northwest Montana History Museum, a Craft Supplies Swap & Sale in Whitefish, chair yoga in Bigfork, and more local happenings. Tune in for a rundown of these events and find out how you can get involved in your community!

Press Play with Big Sky City Lights
Movie Night at the Museum: "A Fistful of Dollars" (1964)
Craft Supply Swap & Sale
Chair Yoga
Columbia Falls Community Market
Historical Clothing Tour at the Conrad Mansion
Plein Air Glacier Opening Exhibit Reception and Fundraiser Sale
Bring Them Home - Documentary Film Screening at Wachholz College Center

Lightning Strikes, Budget Hikes, and Libby Asbestos Legal Fights

Sat, 24 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we cover a range of local news, starting with the shocking story of two high school students struck by lightning during a soccer practice, thankfully surviving the incident. We also discuss Kalispell City Council's approval of a $180.7 million budget for fiscal year 2025, highlighting the impact of property tax increases due to a public safety levy. Additionally, we delve into the legal battle surrounding a Montana health clinic fined nearly $6 million for submitting false asbestos-related claims.

Read more of these stories:
Lightning strike near Glacier High School leaves three injured, one seriously
Kalispell City Council approved $180.7 million budget for fiscal 2025
Montana asbestos clinic seeks to reverse $6M in fines, penalties over false claims

Read more local and state coverage:
Glacier Park officials identify climber who went missing near Heavens Peak
Results from the Northwest Montana Fair
Lapping it up: Columbia Falls woman logs 50 miles in city pool
Study finds pollution 350 miles downstream of Canadian coal mine

Conversation with 'Bring Them Home' Documentary Filmakers: Blackfoot People Reintroduce Buffalo to Ancestral Lands

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

“Bring Them Home” tells the story of a small group of Blackfoot people and their mission to establish the first wild buffalo herd on their ancestral territory since the species’ near-extinction a century ago, an act that would restore the land, re-enliven traditional culture and bring much needed healing to their community. Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman speaks with filmmakers Ivan McDonald and Daniel Glick about how they documented this historic event.

Learn more about the film here.

Local Events: August Adventures with Markets, Music and Melons

Mon, 19 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

As August winds down, it’s the perfect time to savor those final summer moments while preparing for the busy season ahead. Join us as we navigate the bustling farmer's markets across the Flathead Valley, from Whitefish to Polson, gathering the best local produce—especially those coveted Dixon melons. Whether it’s enjoying live music at The Raven or celebrating community at events like the Whitefish Trail Hootenanny, there’s no shortage of activities to keep your summer spirit alive. Let’s soak up every last bit of summer together!

Check out all our events: dailyinterlake.com/events

Links to events in this episode:
Columbia Falls Community Market (on Thursday)
Columbia Falls Farmers Market (on Sunday)
Bigfork Monday Market
Whitefish Farmers Market
Kalispell Farmers Market
Polson Farmers Market
Full Moon Party at The Raven! August 19th
Live music at The Raven- Paul Cataldo! August 21st
Live music at The Raven- Miller Campbell! Saturday, August 24th
Farm Dinner with Land to Hand MT

Alleged dognapper given suspended sentences, toxic algae found, & Flathead schools get free lunch

Sat, 17 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, host Taylor Inman covers the week’s major headlines for northwest Montana. We discuss the case of a Kalispell woman who received suspended sentences after a violent confrontation, the discovery of a harmful algal bloom in Lake Mary Ronan, and what it means for local residents and pets. Plus, good news for families in Flathead, Lake, and Lincoln counties as several schools will provide free meals to students for the 2024-25 school year under the Community Eligibility Provision.

Local Events - Savor the Season of Learning, Music, and Mindfulness in Northwest Montana

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Embrace the cooler weather with a range of activities across Northwest Montana! Get out there and make the most of the season before summer fades away!

Learn more about events mentioned in this episode:
Preschool Art Class
Seed Cleaning & Packing Parties
Gentle Flow Yoga with Krista Sanderson
Sit and Stay: Workshop on Honoring Pet Loss
The History and Future of Wildlife Shepherding with Karelian Bear Dogs
Fight Fraud Seminar at Whitefish Community Center
Big Sky City Lights Picnic in the Park 2024
Brent Jameson
Ben Darce
Diamond Rio

Black bear study comes to Flathead Valley, accused Ferndale killer pleads guilty, and City of Kalispell begins treatment of forever chemicals

Sat, 10 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In case you missed it this week, Montana biologists are updating our black bear population data with a new study that could impact wildlife management. Meanwhile, Kalispell is addressing "forever chemicals" in its water supply with new filtration systems. In other news, a Bigfork man pled guilty to charges of homicide and attempted homicide, with sentencing set for September.

Read more:
Multiyear black bear study comes to Flathead Valley
Accused Ferndale killer pleads guilty to deliberate homicide charge
Kalispell to begin treating forever chemicals in contaminated wells

Read more local and state coverage:
Kalispell City Council adopts amended Main Street Safety Action Plan
FWP lifts fishing restrictions on North Fork Flathead
Meals on Wheels program seeks support through livestock purchase
Great Fish Community Challenge begins with launch party Aug. 8
Gianforte, FWP say grizzly translocations shows Montana ready for delisting

Local Events - Whitefish Huckleberry Days, Blues, Beer, and more in the Flathead Valley!

Mon, 05 Aug 2024 04:00:00 -0600

As we navigate the heat of Angry August, dive into the cool fun at Whitefish's 35th annual Huckleberry Days Arts Festival with arts, crafts, food, and family-friendly activities. Other highlights include painting classes, cocktail-making sessions, library sing-alongs, a Riverfront Blues Festival in Libby, and the Great Bear Festival in Kalispell. And don't miss the performance by A Girl Named Tom at the Wachholz College Center!

Thanks to our featured event, the Whitefish Chamber of Commerce's Huckleberry Days Arts Festival for supporting the pod. Join in the fun at Whitefish’s Depot Park on Friday, August 9th and Saturday, August 10th from 10 am to 6 pm and on Sunday, August 11th from 10 am to 4 pm. Wander the park for great food and fine arts and crafts vendors! Click here to learn more about the schedule of events.

Other events mentioned in this episode:
Great Bear Festival
Paint What You See!
Glacier Distilling Cocktail Class
Community Sound Meditation
Summer Sing Along
FREE Movie in the Park - Featuring Wonka
Girl Named Tom

Warming Center Legal Showdown, Lake Rescues, Fatal Crash, and E. Coli Outbreak

Sat, 03 Aug 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she covers this week’s biggest headlines for northwest Montana. In this episode, we delve into the legal conflict between the Flathead Warming Center and the Kalispell City Council. Attorney Michelle T. Weinberg warns that revoking the shelter's permit would violate state and federal laws, potentially leading to litigation. We also cover the allegations against the shelter and the council's decision to delay action for 60 days. Additionally, hear updates on recent local incidents including a tragic accident in Glacier National Park, a hypothermia rescue on Flathead Lake, and an E. coli outbreak linked to a Kalispell meat processing company.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Flathead Warming Center attorney warns permit revocation could lead to lawsuit
Kayakers rescued from turbulent Flathead Lake
Man dies after being ejected from vehicle on Going-to-the-Sun Road
Connected to deadly E. coli outbreak, Lower Valley Processing recalls products

Read more local and state coverage:
Tester maintains cash advantage over Sheehy
Trinity Lutheran’s Susan Junk named Best Teacher in the Flathead

New Stage 1 Restrictions & Heat Advisory for Northwest Montana

Thu, 01 Aug 2024 22:00:00 -0600

Starting Saturday, August 3rd, campfires are banned in Northwest Montana as Stage 1 fire restrictions take effect in Flathead and Lincoln counties, Flathead and Kootenai forests, Glacier National Park, and state lands. Even after Tuesday's rainfall, hot weather is on the horizon with highs in the upper 90s and a heat advisory in place.

No new fires have been reported, but current fires are being closely monitored. Expect smoke from Oregon fires to impact Western Montana.

Fire Update for July 30th

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0600

Firefighting efforts continue in Montana: The Muir Creek Fire in Glacier National Park held steady at 30 acres, with Arizona firefighters on the way. Meanwhile, the Miller Peak Fire near Missoula has reached 65% containment, while smoke from regional fires affects air quality across the state.

Local Events - Show N’ Shine Car Show, Bigfork Festival of the Arts, Packed Music Schedule, and more!

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Beat the heat this week with our guide to staying cool and entertained in Northwest Montana! Find refreshing activities at the Flathead County Library, explore local art at the Bigfork Festival of the Arts, and enjoy a packed schedule of live music, from intimate concerts at the Daily Inter Lake’s Press Play to outdoor performances across the region.

Go support family-friendly events like our featured event the Show N’ Shine Car Show! The Evergreen Chamber of Commerce puts on one of the largest car shows in Montana that's open to all classes of cars, motorcycles, and off-road vehicles...and admission is free! Join them at Conlin's Furniture on Hwy 35 in Kalispell on Saturday, August 3rd from 9:00AM - 2:00PM.

Other events mentioned this week:
Library events
Press Play with Brent Jameson Duo ....and subscribe to our Press Play podcast!
Live Music events
Outdoor Kids Yoga!
SUP Yoga
Sound Bath at Yoga Hive
Whitefish Gallery Nights
Bigfork Festival of the Arts

Fishing Restrictions, Bigfork Library Opening, and Ballot Initiatives for 2024 Elections

Sat, 27 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

State officials have implemented unprecedented fishing restrictions on the North Fork Flathead River due to record water temperatures and dropping flows. The new Bigfork library, located at 186 Bridge Street, is set to open on August 6 after years of planning and fundraising, featuring expanded space and new resources. Additionally, three ballot initiatives, including changes to primary elections and enshrining reproductive rights in the Montana Constitution, have collected enough signatures to likely appear on the 2024 general election ballot.

Read more of today’s stories:
Fishing restrictions placed on North Fork due to warm water
New Bigfork library opens with ceremony on Aug. 6
Trio of initiatives poised to make the November ballot

Read more local and state coverage:
Martin City Shooter Found Guilty Of Deliberate Homicide
1 Death Linked To E. Coli Outbreak In Flathead County
Surprise Yellowstone Geyser Eruption Highlights Little Known Hazard

Fire Update - July 24th

Wed, 24 Jul 2024 22:00:00 -0600

Multiple fires are blazing across Western Montana: a 200-acre fire on the Flathead Reservation, a small island fire on Lower Stillwater Lake, and a human-caused fire on Lion Mountain in Whitefish. Near Missoula, the Butler Creek Fire has reached 300 acres, while the Miller Peak Fire is 25% contained at 2,581 acres. Smoke from neighboring states and Canada is impacting air quality, currently rated as moderate in the Flathead Valley.

Local Events - Unleash Your Summer Spirit with Workshops, Music, and More in Northwest Montana

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join us this week as we dive into vibrant summer events in Northwest Montana! Explore FVCC's Maker Space workshops, enjoy live music, classic films, and more. Celebrate local professionals at the 20 Under 40 Winners' Ceremony, and catch performances by Judy Collins and Los Lobos. Get ready for a summer of creativity, community, and fun!

Links to events mentioned in this episode:
FVCC Makerspace
The Kurt Springer Trio @ River View Bar
Picnic in the Park 2024
Movie Night at the Museum: "How to Marry a Millionaire" (1953)
20 Under 40 - Annual Winners Ceremony
An Evening with Judy Collins
Toad the Wet Sprocket
Los Lobos: 50th Anniversary Tour
Historical Clothing Tours at the Conrad Mansion Museum
Historical Fashion Tours Tickets

Trooper Termination Scandal, Trout Conservation, & Ocean Research SUBSEA Project at Flathead Lake

Sat, 20 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0600

Amidst controversy over alleged unfair labor practices at the Montana Department of Justice, where Trooper Alicia Bragg's termination sparked outcry for workplace transparency and accountability. Concurrently, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks spearheads efforts to revive the native redband trout population, crucial for preserving ecological balance in the region's waters. Meanwhile, the Flathead Lake Biological Station embarks on a $9.5 million SUBSEA project, diving deep into oceanic research to unravel the mysteries of carbon cycling and ecosystem dynamics, offering insights crucial for global marine conservation efforts.

Read the full stories here:
Montana Highway Patrol likely committed unfair labor practice in firing trooper
State wildlife agency gives boost to native rainbow trout species
Flathead Lake Biological Station embarking on an ocean study

Fire Update - July 18th

Thu, 18 Jul 2024 14:00:00 -0600

Wondering where this smoke is coming from? Fires have been reported in northwest Kalispell, south of Missoula, and near Helena. We will keep you updated on developments.

Read more about the heat dome in the area - https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/jul/18/heat-dome-intensifies-this-weekend-elevating-fire-danger/

Local Events - Summer Fun in Northwest Montana: Markets, Music, and More

Mon, 15 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Summer vibes are in full swing in Northwest Montana! Join us for a spectacular lineup of events: from Columbia Falls Farmers Market with yoga and local goodies, to Bigfork's concert series featuring Roots Uprising and G.O.A.T. Ice Cream. Don't miss unique experiences like Goat Story Time and A Silent Book Club by Flathead Lake! Check out our online calendar for the full list of events.

Events this week:
Columbia Falls Farmers Market
River Bend Summer Concert Series
Goat Story Time | Goats of Glacier
B.Y.O. Book Club: A Silent Book Club for Introverts
Picnic in the Park 2024
20 Grand: Annual Polebrige Throwdown
Flathead Lake Festival of Art
Glacier Nordic Club's 42nd Annual Big Mountain Run
5k beer run MT brewery running series x Bias Brewing
Live Acoustic Jazz with Joe Procita at Waters Edge Winery & Bistro!
Live Music with Andrew Sweeney
Live Music with JJ Kind

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Wildfire contained in Sanders County, bear euthanized in Hungry Horse Reservoir and survey shows a drop in homeless population

Sat, 13 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

This week's headlines from Northwest Montana included firefighting efforts on several small blazes, notably the Fishtrap Fire, swiftly contained by a team of smokejumpers and local crews. In wildlife news, a black bear was euthanized after multiple incidents at a local campground. Additionally, a recent survey showed a decrease in the region's homeless population, although service demands remain unchanged.

Read more from this week’s show:

Small wildfire contained in Sanders County

Bear euthanized after breaking into vehicle at campground

Survey shows a drop in the area’s homeless population, but shelter leaders aren’t convinced

Read more local and state coverage:

A gunman killed at a Yellowstone dining facility earlier told a woman he planned a mass shooting

Local Events: Under the Big Sky comes to Whitefish, plus a week full music and arts festivals

Sun, 07 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

This week in Northwest Montana is set to be packed with excitement: Whitefish hosts the Under the Big Sky Festival, Kalispell features the Hockaday Arts in the Park event, and Bigfork's Riverbend Concert Series continues. These events offer a mix of music, art, and family-friendly activities for all to enjoy.

Daily Inter Lake's full event calendar
Under the Big Sky Lineup
River Bend Summer Concert Series
Picnic in the Park 2024
Whitefish Gallery Nights - Lori Putnam: Opening Reception at Cawdrey Gallery and Reverence and Transformation w/Mark and Shannon Baumbach at Walking Man Gallery
Lakeside Community Fair
Arts in the Park
Flathead Food Bank Block Party at Bias Brewing

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Fugitive's River Escape, Forest Plan Blocked, and Kayaker Tragedy

Sat, 06 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she reviews some of the week’s biggest news. This week she covers a fugitive wanted in North Carolina, Steven Jeffrey O'Shields, who drowned in the Flathead River while evading capture. A federal judge blocked Flathead National Forest's forest plan over road concerns impacting endangered species. Tragically, Jessica Prado's body was found after a kayaking accident on the Kootenai River near Libby.

Links to these stories:
Fugitive from North Carolina dies while fleeing Sheriff’s deputies
Federal judge stops Forest Services' plan for Flathead Forest over endangered species
Searchers find missing kayaker's body in Kootenai River

Read more local and state news:
Beach Boys surfin’ into headline Northwest Montana Fair concert
Montana U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy resigns from Bridger Aerospace
Fire Grants and Safety Act passes Senate
Montana GOP, Busse file campaign finance complaints

A big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Breaking Fire Update - July 7th, 2024

Fri, 05 Jul 2024 18:00:00 -0600

A small wildfire cropped up in a forested area of rural Sanders County. The four-acre Fish Trap fire in the Lolo National Forest north of Thompson Falls was quickly contained Friday after showing moderate fire behavior.

Local Events - Whitefish Arts Festival, 4th of July fireworks, brews, and tunes

Mon, 01 Jul 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Summer is sizzling in Northwest Montana with 4th of July celebrations galore! There's no shortage of fun, from art festivals and lively markets to tribute concerts and fireworks extravaganzas. Don’t miss out on parades, music, local brews, and picturesque lakeside pyrotechnics—all set against Montana's stunning backdrop. It’s a summer spectacle you won’t want to miss!

Go support our featured event for this episode, the 45th annual Whitefish Arts Festival on July 5, 6, & 7th! A highlight of the Fourth of July weekend, it draws top artists and craftspeople from across the country to showcase their stellar creations. From canvas art and jewelry to unique sculptures and metalworks, it is the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind treasures and unique gifts amidst the scenic beauty and festive atmosphere.

Also catch...
Chris Evans at Bigfork Monday Market on 7/1
The Whitefish Cabaret every Sunday in July and August
Live Music at Thirty Eight with Michelle Rivers on 7/1
Live Music at Thirty Eight with Donnie Rifkin & Maggie Lynch on 7/2
Live Music at Thirty Eight with Halladay on 7/5
The Music Of Fleetwood Mac - A Tribute Concert on 7/3
Pints for Paths on 7/6

And a big thank you to our headline sponsor for the News Now podcast, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber. Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Whitefish Physician Charged in Medicare Fraud Case, Flathead County Nets $3.7M, Glacier Park IDs Drowned Woman

Sat, 29 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman goes over some of the week’s biggest headlines. Whitefish physician charged in multi-million dollar Medicare billing fraud case, Flathead County nets $3.7 million in federal distribution, and Glacier Park officials ID woman who drowned near St. Mary Falls.

Local Events this Week - Herb Farm, Walking Tour, Great Bear Festival, Chili Cookoff, Live Music

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

We've got some ideas for your social calendar this week! From herbs to chili, Eagles soft rock to a literary reading - there's something for everyone.

Events discussed in this episode:
SpiritWorks Herb Farm Herbal Presentations
Downtown Kalispell Walking Tour: The Iron Horse Snorted in the Garden of Eden
Northwest Montana History Museum Events
The Music of Eagles - A Tribute Concert
Live Music At The Tiki Featuring Billy Billie
Billie Billie's Press Play concert
Great Bear Festival
Crossings Seminar: Road Ecology Shapes the Planet
1st Responders Chili Cook Off
1st Responders Chili Cook Off | Bigfork - Montana

Big thank you to our sponsors, Loren's Auto Repair! They combine skill with integrity resulting in auto service & repair of the highest caliber! Discover them in Ashley Square Mall at 1309 Hwy 2 West in Kalispell Montana, or learn more at lorensauto.com.

Chief Mountain closed to non-tribal members; Forest improvements planned; St Mary canal siphons fail

Sat, 22 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over some of this week’s biggest headlines. The Blackfeet Nation are again enforcing a decades-old closure of Chief Mountain after recent tourist activity disturbed cultural and spiritual practices there. Funding from the Great American Outdoors Act will go toward several Flathead National Forest improvements this summer, and two siphons failed this week in the St. Mary Canal, spurring concerns about the effects on local agriculture and ecology.

Read more of these stories:

Blackfeet Nation resumes enforcement of Chief Mountain closure
Great Outdoors Act funding to spur Flathead National Forest improvements
St. Mary Canal failure stirs agriculture, ecological concerns

Conversation with Flathead Food Truck Festival

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Don’t miss the annual Flathead Food Truck Festival this weekend at Flathead County Fairgrounds, the prime opportunity to savor a variety of Northwest Montana’s best food trucks all in one place. Since 2020, this event has grown into a community favorite - featuring everything from Brazilian barbecue to upscale cuisine. KnucklHed BBQ owner Ryan Garnache chats with us about what it takes to put on the event.

There are some new ticket options, making it easier to enjoy the festival’s 35 vendors. Plus, support a good cause—donations go towards scholarships for culinary arts students at Flathead Valley Community College.

Buy your tickets at https://flatheadtickets.com/events/flathead-food-truck-festival-6-21-2024

A Conversation with Stillwater Ranch Llamas

Wed, 19 Jun 2024 13:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman joins Stillwater Ranch owner Nancy Carpenter to meet her llamas and learn more about the upcoming Glacier Classic Llama Show. It’s the first time a llama show has been held in Kalispell, and it coincides with the United Nation’s designation of 2024 being the “Year of the Camelid.”

Read Taylor's full article for the Daily Inter Lake.

Find out more information on camelids by checking out www.fao.org/camelids-2024/about/en/.

Learn more about the Glacier Classic Llama Show on their Facebook page. The Glacier Classic Llama Show takes place June 22 and 23 at the Majestic Valley Arena, starting at 8 a.m.

Local Events this Week - Workshops, Photopoetry, Rodeo, Dance Performance, Food Trucks, and Lemonade Day

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

This week we share about the Flathead Food Truck Festival, Lemonade Day, Flathead Valley Community College workshops, photography and poetry at the Hungry Horse Dam, Brash Rodeo, and a Feat x Feet tap dance performance.

Learn more about what was mentioned this week:
Concrete Planters Workshop
FVCC Summer 2024 Workshops
Photopoetry: Montana and Beyond
Brash Rodeo Summer Series
Tap Live 2024
Flathead Food Truck Festival
Last year's interview with Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Flathead Valley's Average Fire Outlook, Ex-Bookkeeper Embezzles from Firearm Maker, Rep. Sprunger Backs Legislature for Immigration Reform

Sat, 15 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman for some of this week’s biggest headlines for northwest Montana. Including hearing from local fire officials about what is potentially in store for the summer, a recent case from the U.S. Attorney General’s Office detailing a wire fraud scam and what Kalispell Republican Representative Courtnay Sprunger has to say about immigration reform.

Read more of this week’s stories:
Average fire season forecast for the Flathead Valley
Former bookkeeper for Kalispell firearms manufacturer stole $159,000
Sprunger says she supported reconvening Montana Legislature to address immigration

Read more local and state coverage:

State lawmakers pass on special session on immigration
Backers say nonpartisan primary and majority vote initiatives qualify for fall ballot
Teenage motorcyclist killed in US 93 collision
Dog Tag Buddies marks graduation of service dog teams
County commissioners approve lower wage increase for employees
County approves contract for fairgrounds grandstand inspection
Whitefish rally takes aim at Biden’s Title IX revisions

Conversation about Lemonade Day (interview from 2023)

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

With 2024's Lemonade Day coming up on Saturday, June 22nd, we thought we should repost our interview last year to revisit the fun event!

Lemonade Day Flathead started in 2020 and is a free, fun, experiential learning program that teaches youth how to start, own and operate their own business – a lemonade stand. Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Workforce and Special Initiatives Director Jennifer Cronk and 2022’s Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Wyatt Seals share how to step-up our game for the event. There's still time to register, so don't miss out!

Flathead Lemonade Day's website
Photos from 2022's event

Local Events this Week - Fire Preparedness, Ladies Tea, Rummage Sale, Live Music

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

This week we share about the Flathead Food Truck Festival, Lemonade Day, the many live music opportunities, fire preparedness, a tea party, and treasure hunting.

Learn more about what was mentioned this week:
Ladies Tea at Historic Big Arm School
Rummage Sale
Living with Wildfire Seminar
Flathead Food Truck Festival
Jamie Wyman Band
Live Music events
Last year's interview with Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year
Garage Sales listed in our classifieds

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Robber Holds Up Three, United Way Aids Homeless, Primary Election Results

Sat, 08 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman as she goes over some of this week’s top stories for Northwest Montana. In Whitefish, an alleged robber held up three people at gunpoint outside a bar on Monday night. The Northwest Montana United Way is starting a relocation assistance program for homeless people who want to connect with support outside the area, and a recent high school graduate sent incumbent state Rep. Tony Brockman packing during Tuesday’s primary election.

Read more of today’s stories:
Whitefish alleged robbery
United Way's Relocation Assistance Program
Primary Election

Read more local and state coverage:
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/jun/05/primary-election-results/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/jun/01/community-gathers-in-support-of-warming-center/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/jun/03/lake-county-almanac-john-grant-leaves-a-legacy-def/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/jun/03/whitefish-council-looks-at-senior-housing-expansion-subdivion-requests/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/jun/05/fvcc-nursing-grads-join-health-care-workforce/

Local Events this Week - Art in Whitefish, Pride Month, Live Music, Local Vendor Pop up

Wed, 05 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Experience Whitefish Gallery Nights with captivating exhibits by Pamela Caughey and Rachel Rollins, then join Glacier Queer Alliance for lively Pride Month events. Enjoy live jazz at the Daily Inter Lake's Press Play concert and explore a pop-up market at Kalispell Center Mall. Finally, don't miss Crystal Lewis' performance at the Whitefish Performing Arts Center.

Featured events this week:
Thursday, June 6th - Whitefish Gallery Nights
Pride month with Glacier Queer Alliance
Friday, June 7th - Press Play with Barrel Stove Combo
June 8th and 9th Kalispell Weekend Market
Saturday, June 8th - “On the Stage” with Crystal Lewis
June 21st and 22nd - Food Truck Festival

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Montana snowpack rebounds, Flathead Library seeks logo input, Glacier student wins Google Contest

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join Daily Inter Lake reporter Taylor Inman for this week’s biggest headlines, including good news about the area’s mountain snowpack, a look at five proposed logo designs for Flathead County Library and a student from Glacier High School who took first place in Montana for Google’s national Google Doodle contest.

Read more of these stories:
Snowpack
Library Logos
Google Doodle

Local Events - Family Summer Block Party, Death by Design premiere, Jerry Joseph & The Jackmormons

Tue, 28 May 2024 07:00:00 -0600

Here are a few upcoming listings from our events calendar to give you some inspiration after a long weekend! This week Kalispell HEART Locker's hosting their Summer Block Party, Whitefish Theatre Company's "Death by Design" premiers, Jerry Joseph & The Jackmormons will have a two-day stint at the Northern Bar.

Featured events this week:
Death by Design
Kalispell HEART Locker Block Party
Jerry Joseph
Barrel Stove Combo

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Zinke Requests Proof on Immigrant Family Claims, Mystery Snails Found in Flathead Lake, West Valley Tech Levy Passes After Recount

Sat, 25 May 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Despite raising the specter that a nonprofit worked with the Biden administration to relocate immigrants in the country illegally to Kalispell earlier this month, U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke has yet to produce evidence for the claim. Suspected aquarium dumping leads to mystery snails being found in Flathead Lake, a common aquarium pet in the U.S. And after a recount, the West Valley School technology levy passed by one vote.

Read more from this week's show:
Zinke claims about immigrant family
Mystery snails article
West Valley School technology levy

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/22/a-home-at-samaritan-house-serving-families-and-veterans/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/19/kalispell-ffa-shines-at-state-multiple-teams-advance-to-nationals/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/21/16-years-after-buying-a-slice-of-paradise-columbia-heights-family-learns-home-is-on-a-toxic-site/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/24/northwest-montana-2024-primary-voter-guide-for-statehouse/

Local Events this Week - Storytellers, Songwriters, BC/DC, Whitewater Fest, Pride Festival

Tue, 21 May 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Here are a few upcoming listings from our events calendar to give you some inspiration for your Memorial Day weekend planning! This week you've got to catch local storytellers, listen to aspiring songwriters to benefit North Valley Music School, jam out to a raucous cover band, and witness a tradition like no other in Bigfork.

Featured events this week:
Tuesday, May 21st - Flathead Story Concerts at Sacred Waters Brewery
Friday, May 24th - Songwriter Night at Slow Burn Records
Saturday, May 25th - BC/DC at Happy's Inn
May 24th - May 26th - Whitewater Festival in Bigfork

And mark your calendar for Glacier Queer Alliance's Pride Week festivities coming up on June 6-9th! Click here for a list of events.

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Montana Border Tour, Library Controversy, Glacier Park Plans Unveiled

Sat, 18 May 2024 05:00:00 -0600

In this week’s episode, we learn about a tour of the southern border, provided by an anti-immigration group for two northwest Montana state lawmakers. Tensions rose between the State Library Commission and the Montana Library Association after a commission member compared the group to the Ku Klux Klan last week. And Glacier National Park officials outline their spring operations, as the pilot vehicle reservation is about to start and snow plows near Logan Pass.

Read these full stories from the Daily Inter Lake:
Northwest Montana state lawmakers tour of the southern border
Montana Library Association
Glacier Park update

Read more of this week’s local coverage:

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/14/west-valley-will-recount-ballots-in-technology-levy-election/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/15/council-discusses-revoking-warming-shelters-permit/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/15/volunteers-wild-horse-island-trails-for-summ/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/15/juveniles-arrested-for-vandalism-at-columbia-falls-wrestling-academy/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/14/yeats-family-easement-grants-protection-for-acres-of-land/

Local Events this Week - Live Music, Hide Tanning, Plant Swap, Silent Book Club, History Museum's Walking Tour

Tue, 14 May 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Here are a few upcoming listings from our events calendar to hopefully give you some inspiration for your weekly planning! This week offers a medley of live music and some educational opportunities.

Featured events this week:
Tuesdays May 14, 21 & 28 - Silent Book Club
Friday, May 17th - Kelly Diane performing at the Boat Club
Saturday, May 18th - Kelly Diane performing at Water's Edge Winery
Saturday, May 18th - Keeping it Country
Saturday, May 18th - Fortepiano Concert at the Conrad Mansion
Sunday, May 19th - Hide Tanning at Bias Brewery
Monday, May 20th - Plant Swap at Bias Brewery
Monday, May 27th thru September 30th - Northwest Montana History Museum's Walking Tour

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Alleged attempted teen kidnapping, more Montana families choose homeschooling, and voters approve levy requests

Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Another week in beautiful northwest Montana and the Daily Inter Lake is here to bring you news important to your community. This week we’ll hear about an arrest made after an alleged attempted kidnapping of a 16-year-old boy in Kalispell, school enrollment data that shows more Montanans are choosing to homeschool their children, and how voters in Evergreen and on Big Mountain approved levy requests in last Tuesday’s election.

Attempted kidnapping article
School enrollment data article
Evergreen and Big Mountain approved levy request article

Read more local and state coverage from this week:
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/08/may-2024-school-election-results/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/08/gabriel-nunnally-returned-to-kalispell-city-council-in-special-election/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/07/montana-records-largest-drop-in-childhood-medicaid-coverage-from-pre-pandemic-figures-study-shows/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/07/bigfork-hotel-whitefish-school-before-county-board-of-adjustment/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/06/kalispell-police-officer-carlee-brown-recognized-as-officer-of-the-year/
https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/may/05/teens-wish-granted-with-refurbished-pickup-following-cancer-treatment/

Local Events this Week - Ladies Night, Mother's Day, Run Wild, Flathead Food Truck Festival

Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 -0600

Join host Melissa Wells for the latest addition to our News Now podcast - local events in Northwest Montana! Every week, we will highlight a few listings from our events calendar, and hopefully give you some ideas about what happenings you could check out.

Featured events this week:
Kalispell Downtown Association's Ladies' Night
Run Wild 5k and Fun Run
Flathead Food Truck Festival
...and there's a bunch of fun Mother's Day activities to choose from this Sunday!

To see all local event listings, please visit dailyinterlake.com/events. Want to include your event? It's free! You can ticket and promote your events with Daily Inter Lake, click here to learn more.

Smokey the Bear sign is MIA, man who threatened Tester gets jail time, vandals strike Columbia Falls wrestling club, and Habitat for Humanity makes room for Care-A-Vanners

Sat, 04 May 2024 06:00:00 -0600

The Tally Lake Ranger District office has their Smokey the Bear sign stolen, a Billings man who threatened Democratic U.S. Senator Jon Tester gets two and a half years of jail time, vandals struck the Boys and Girls Club and the Ruis Wrestling Academy, and Habitat For Humanity of the Flathead Valley makes moves to accommodate more construction volunteers.

Conversation with Valley Voices Community Choir

Fri, 26 Apr 2024 11:00:00 -0600

Taylor Inman chats with Valley Voices Director Allyson Kuechmann and member-at-large Dave Vale about their upcoming show “Saturday Night (and Sunday afternoon) At The Movies.” The group brings together community members with a passion for music, regardless of their experience level.

The show runs April 27 at 7:30 p.m. and April 28 at 3 p.m. in the Glacier High School auditorium and is free to attend for all ages.

Learn more about Valley Voices from their website http://www.valleyvoicescc.com/

Montana ranks No. 1 for drunk driving fatalities, U.S. House passes legislation for gateway communities and the trial begins for the man who allegedly ran over a highway patrol officer in 2023

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 20:00:00 -0600

Tune in for this week’s top headlines, including why Montana has ranked number one in the nation for drunk driving fatalities, how Rep. Ryan Zinke plans to help national park gateway communities in new legislation and the details of a trial underway in Lincoln County for the man who allegedly ran over a Montana Highway Patrol officer in February of 2023.

Read these full stories here:

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/18/trial-of-man-accused-of-running-down-montana-highway-patrol-trooper-underway-in-libby/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/16/us-house-passes-gateway-community-legislation/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/18/ratings-montana-worst-for-drunk-driving-fatalities/

Read more local and state coverage:

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/17/all-eyes-on-elephant-that-escaped-circus-wandered-through-butte-traffic/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/17/flathead-county-approves-sale-of-property-to-lakeside-sewer-district/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/17/two-levies-will-be-on-the-may-ballot-for-kalispell-public-schools/

https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/apr/18/three-story-hotel-proposed-for-bigfork/

Conversation with Bigfork Community Players

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0600

A comedy-drama about the bond among a group of Southern women, the Bigfork Community Players brings “Steel Magnolias” to the stage. Taylor Inman sits down with director Michele Mank to learn more about her vision of the beloved show. The play, written by Robert Harling and inspired by the untimely death of his sister, explores relationships among a small group of southern women and how they deal with both the insignificant and the life-changing events they encounter.

The play will be presented at the Bigfork Center for the Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m. on April 19, 20, 26, and 27 and at 2 p.m. on April 21 and 28.

Read more about the show!

Buy tickets here - https://bigforkcommunityplayers.com/Magnolias2024Main.html

Bigfork Community Players' Facebook page

Conversation with Citizens Climate Lobby

Tue, 16 Apr 2024 14:00:00 -0600

The Flathead Valley chapter of the Citizens Climate Lobby is hosting an Earth Day Expo at Flathead Valley Community College on April 20th. The nationwide group is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, grassroots advocacy organization focused on national policies to address pollution.

Reporter Taylor Inman chats with Flathead Valley chapter co-leaders Angie Winter and Robin Paone about what panels, workshops, and other fun activities are planned for this year’s event. They say the expo aims to educate about the many ways people can benefit from clean energy and innovative technologies, all while saving money and helping protect the Earth.

The Earth Day Expo takes place at the Arts and Technology building at Flathead Valley Community College, running from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Find out more information at www.citizensclimatemt.org/earth-day-flathead-valley-montana.

Firefighters squelch large structure fire in Kalispell, Whitefish residents lament tourism woes and Kalispell City Councilor looks at Warming Center’s permit

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0600

Host Taylor Inman reads some of the previous week’s top stories, including how firefighters battled a blaze in a three-story hotel on Kalispell’s west side, why local Whitefish residents are increasingly at odds with the tourism industry’s impact on the city, and the details of an upcoming work session requested by Kalispell City Councilor Chad Graham, who wants to take a look at the Flathead Warming Center’s conditional use permit.

Read these full stories:

Kalispell hotel fire damage estimated at $4 million

Local’s sour on tourism’s impact on Whitefish

Work session on shelter should be limited to council, Graham says

Kalispell Election Re-do, Flathead County Library's Logo + Glacier National Park's 2024 Projects

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 12:00:00 -0600

In case you missed them, here are some headlines from the Flathead area this week. The re-do election for two Kalispell city council seats is scheduled for May 7th, Flathead County Library (formally known as ImagineIF) is looking for a new logo design, and we outline construction projects and closures for Glacier National Park’s 2024 season.

Read more from this week’s show:
Kalispell Election
Flathead County Library logo
Glacier National Park's Construction Schedule
Check out our events calendar at dailyinterlake.com/events.

Conversation with Northwest Montana Spring Job Fair

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0600

Taylor Inman sat with the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Workforce and Special Initiatives Director Jennifer Cronk and Neal Drakage with the Montana Department for Labor and Industry. They discussed the Spring Job Fair coming up on April 11th at the Flathead County Fairgrounds. It’s a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to hire full-time, part-time, and seasonal employees. On the flipside, it’s a great place for anyone to explore their opportunities in a career shift.

More information here about the job fair.
For business signups as employers/exhibitors, click this link.

Glacier National Park Road Plowing, Costly Columbia Falls Superfund Cleanup, and Glacier Loss Study

Fri, 29 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0600

In case you missed them, here are some headlines from this week in the Flathead Valley. Glacier National Park has started plowing roads, a costly toxic waste cleanup at Columbia Falls Aluminum Co. plant could cost up to 1.4 billion dollars, and a study found that 11 glaciers in Glacier National Park have broken into pieces.

Read the full stories at dailyinterlake.com:
GNP Plowing
Columbia Falls Superfund site
Glacier Study
Link to our events page - https://dailyinterlake.com/events/

Conversation with Whitefish Community Library and Author Jess Owen

Sat, 23 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

Reporter Taylor Inman sits down with Whitefish Community Library Director, Mary Drew Powers and local author Jess Owen to chat about the library's Writers Series. They discuss the library’s growing adult programming, teaching workshops tailored for teens, Jess’ writing process, furries, the joy of a poetry reading, and the many resources writers have here in the Flathead Valley.

More about the Writer's Series
Whitefish Community Library
Jess Owen
Books under the Jessica Kara pen name
Authors of the Flathead
Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators

Kalispell Levy Approved, Columbia Falls Affordable Housing, Lakeside Septage Facility

Fri, 22 Mar 2024 12:00:00 -0600

In case you missed them, here are some headlines that broke for the Flathead Valley this week! They include Kalispell voters approving an emergency services levy, Columbia Falls moving forward with an affordable housing project, and Lakeside County taking on regional septage treatment facility plans.

Read the full stories:
Kalispell public safety levy - https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/mar/21/kalispell-voters-approve-public-safety-levy/
Columbia Falls Affordable Housing - https://hungryhorsenews.com/news/2024/mar/15/city-will-go-ahead-with-affordable-housing-project/
Septage Treatment Facility in Lakeside - https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2024/mar/21/flathead-county-passes-septage-treatment-facility-to-lakeside-district/
Link to our events page - https://dailyinterlake.com/events/

Election updates, Montana man's illegal sheep operation, Hospital CEO resigning

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0600

In case you missed them, here are some headlines that broke for the Valley this week! They include primary and general election updates, a conviction for a Montana man conspiring to illegally artificially impregnate sheep with an endangered species' semen, and the Logan Health-Billings Clinic CEO resigning.

Dive deeper and read the full stories at https://dailyinterlake.com:
Flathead County Commissioner race article
Illegal Sheep Breeding article
Hospital CEO article
Check out local events - https://dailyinterlake.com/events/

Airport Expansion, Glacier National Park's Inflation Reduction Act Funding, Flathead Lake shoreline closure

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 08:00:00 -0600

In case you missed them, here are some headlines that broke for the Valley this week! They include Glacier Park International Airport (FCA) completing Phase 1A of a $163 million terminal expansion project, Glacier National Park investing $1.5 million of Inflation Reduction Act funding on furthering the Blackfeet-led effort of bison reintroduction on the east side of the park, and the beginning of a seasonal closure along the north shore of Flathead Lake to support migrating and nesting birds.

Dive deeper and read the full stories at https://dailyinterlake.com:

Glacier Park International Airport article
Glacier National Park article
Seasonal closure on Flathead Lake article

Check out local events - https://dailyinterlake.com/events/

Events we mentioned in this episode:
ImagineIF Library
Lake County Job Fair on 3/13
Wachholtz Center

This Week's Headlines - February 29th, 2024

Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:00:00 -0700

Taylor Inman recaps the top headlines from the fourth week of February, which includes Glacier National Park officials looking to public to update the park’s long-term wildfire management plan, Flathead Audubon boosting efforts to protect ospreys, and Kalispell City Council exploring next steps following a judge’s decision to annul the elections of two of its members.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Whitefish Theatre Company

Sat, 24 Feb 2024 13:00:00 -0700

Taylor Inman recaps the top headlines from the third week of February, which includes the closure of Bridge Street Bridge in Bigfork, skiers rescued in an avalanche, and a new direct flight to northern California.

The Whitefish Theatre Company’s production of Misery begins Thursday 2/22 and runs from 2/23- 25, 2/29 and 3/1-2. Taylor Inman spoke with Artistic Director Kim Krueger and actor David Blair, who plays the part of Paul Sheldon in the stage adaptation of this iconic thriller.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Glacier National Park

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 11:00:00 -0700

On a quiet January morning, Glacier National Park Lead Education Technician Lindsay Brandt appears before a green screen showing off the park virtually to a classroom at Hot Spring Elementary, but the program also reaches students as far away as New Jersey. News Now host Taylor Inman speaks with Brandt and Winter Seasonal Education Technician Darcy Lilla who talk about why these distance learning programs are so beneficial.

This Week's Headlines - Jan. 29 - Feb. 2

Fri, 02 Feb 2024 10:00:00 -0700

It's another episode of News Now headlines where Taylor goes over even more of this week's top stories, followed by events coming up for the Flathead Valley.

Read the full versions of these stories on Dailyinterlake.com.

Conversation with National Weather Service

Fri, 26 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0700

Northwest Montana is experiencing an unusual winter, with warmer than average temperatures and low snow pack. NWS Missoula Meteorologist Dave Noble explains how El Nino affects winter weather and what could be in store for us as the season continues.

Conversation with Cabin Fever Days

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 15:00:00 -0700

This week's top stories, plus a conversation and song from Cabin Fever Days organizer 'Philly Steve' Paugh. He tells us all about the rowdy event that takes place every February in Martin City, where participants attach skis to a barstool and take a ride down Sugar Hill. Paugh said they are in need of racers and volunteers for the event, find out more at cabinfeverdays.com

Frigid temps and snowstorm impacts Flathead Valley

Fri, 12 Jan 2024 16:00:00 -0700

Taylor reads some of this week's top stories, including information about a storm that brought -30 degree temperatures and whiteout conditions to the Flathead Valley. She speaks with Flathead Warming Center Co-Founder and Executive Director Tonya Horn about what they do to prepare for the extreme cold.

Conversation with ImagineIF Libraries

Fri, 05 Jan 2024 10:00:00 -0700

Hear some of this week's biggest headlines followed by an interview with ImagineIF Libraries Communications and Outreach Librarian Lune Axelson, who tells us about what programs they loved in 2023 and what is new on the horizon for 2024, including more front porch concerts and expanded adult programming.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Flathead Food Bank

Fri, 15 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0700

Hear this week’s biggest headlines, plus what’s been going on at the Flathead Food Bank. New Executive Director Chris Sidmore has been on the job for a few months now, taking it on just before the organization’s busiest season, supplying holiday meals and preparing people for the cold winter ahead. Sidmore said since starting the position, he is blown away by the generosity of the community.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Flathead Youth Home

Fri, 08 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0700

Hear some of this week’s biggest headlines, followed by a discussion with Flathead Youth Home's Development Coordinator, Hannah Plumb. The Flathead Youth Home provides a safe space for kids and teens who are facing abuse, neglect, emotional trauma and substance abuse problems. She talks about their mission and how the community can help give back to the kids they serve this holiday season.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Northwest Montana History Museum

Fri, 01 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0700

Hear some of this week’s biggest headlines, followed by a discussion about the upcoming John White Speaker Series at the Northwest Montana History Museum. Regularly selling out, this year’s speakers delve into grizzlies, motorcycle adventuring, indigenous foods, and Meriwether Lewis’s mom. Taylor Inman chats with the first speaker Ron Brevik and museum Executive Director Margaret Davis about what audiences can expect. Find out more information and purchase tickets at nwmthistory.org.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Valley Voices

Fri, 24 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0700

Taylor is joined by Valley Voices community choir President Rosella Thompson and member Dave Vale this week. Their upcoming concert titled “In Harmony with Christmas” is taking place Dec. 9 at 7 p.m. at the John Paul Catholic Church in Bigfork, followed by a Dec. 10 performance at the Risen Christ Catholic Church starting at 3 p.m. To learn more about the longstanding choir group, check out their website:
valleyvoicescc.com

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Bigfork Elves

Fri, 17 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0700

This week’s biggest headlines, plus a conversation with Bigfork Elves Head Elf Michele Shapero, who tells Taylor about how the group of some 200 volunteers come together and decorate downtown Bigfork for the holiday season each year.

#flatheadlake #flatheadnationalforest #ufo #dailyinterlake #montana #northwestmontana #holidays #Bigfork #elves #Christmas

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about Hunting In Montana Wilderness

Fri, 10 Nov 2023 14:00:00 -0700

Hear some of this week’s top headlines and join for a chat with host Taylor Inman and Inter Lake reporter Kate Heston, who talks about her experience joining in on a hunting trip for the first time. Her journey is recounted in a recent Montana Life article: https://dailyinterlake.com/news/2023/nov/05/mt-life-a-day-of-hunting-the-beating-heart-of-montana/

#montana #hunting #GlacierNationalPark #2024election #dailyinterlake #montanafwp

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Immanuel at Home

Fri, 03 Nov 2023 12:00:00 -0600

This week’s biggest headlines, featuring a chat with Jenna Justice, Program Manager with Immanuel at Home, who tells us about their upcoming collaboration with ImagineIF Libraries, Flathead Valley Community College and the Kalispell Senior Center. Their ‘Tell me a story– Legacy Conversations’ project connects younger community members with older adults to ask them questions about their lives and experiences, taking place on Nov. 6 and 9, with a celebration to follow in January.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Logan Health’s Mobile Mammography Unit

Fri, 27 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Logan Health’s Winkley Mobile Mammography unit reaches people who are unable to come to the on-site imaging center. Its goal is to eliminate barriers by making it faster and more convenient for women in rural Montana to have a screening mammogram, the key to lifesaving early detection of breast cancer. Mammographer Elise Cormier gives a tour of the mobile unit and tells us about what other breast cancer services are offered by Logan Health. Find out more about Logan Health’s services by going to www.logan.org/health/services/breast-health

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Montana Pediatrics

Fri, 20 Oct 2023 15:00:00 -0600

We go over last week's biggest headlines and host an interview with Kate Lufkin, Chief Communications Officer at Montana Pediatrics. A non-profit that allows families to utilize their services if availability, weather, time of day or other circumstances interfere with their ability to see a pediatrician when they need to.
Create an account with Montana Pediatrics by visiting their website: montanapediatrics.org

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Montana Lakes Conference

Fri, 06 Oct 2023 10:00:00 -0600

Selenium in Lake Koocanusa, non native fish in the lakes and rivers of Glacier National Park and why we are seeing more “slimy shores”.... The Montana Lakes Conference puts a spotlight on the biggest threats against the numerous lakes in the region. Taylor chats with Whitefish Lake Institute Founder and Executive Director Mike Koopal and Institute Grant and Finance Manager Carol Treadwell about what attendees can expect to learn.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Great Northwest Oktoberfest

Mon, 02 Oct 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Hear some of this week's headlines and learn about what to expect at this year's Great Northwest Oktoberfest in Whitefish.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Fri, 22 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0600

Hear some of this week's biggest headlines, followed by a chat with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 1 Communication and Education Program Manager Dillon Tabish. He gives us a bear spray demonstration and talks about how to best avoid a bear encounter in the fall--- the season bears are more likely to be in lower elevations looking for food sources.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Northwest Job and Opportunity Fair

Fri, 15 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Taylor chats with Jennifer Cronk with the Kalispell Chamber of Commerce and Job Service Kalispell and Cathy Allard from the Flathead Valley Community College about the upcoming fall Northwest Montana Job and Opportunity Fair. In collaboration with the Daily Inter Lake and other partners, the fair will take place at the Flathead Valley Fairgrounds Trade Center from 2pm to 7pm on Sept. 26. Find out more details at https://workforceflathead.com/job-seekers/nw-mt-jobs-opportunity-fair/

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about hiking Continental Divide Trail

Fri, 08 Sep 2023 10:00:00 -0600

Brendan Hickman, a thru hiker who just beat the fastest known time record on the Continental Divide Trail, stops by the Inter Lake office for a chat. He tells us about his journey from Mexico to Canada, including his extreme hiking schedule that helped him beat the previous 2016 record by three and a half days.

This Week's Headlines

Tue, 05 Sep 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Billings Clinic and Logan Health are officially a new health care organization, visitors to Glacier Park spent nearly $400 million in nearby communities last year and a Croatian backpacking company is offering group hikes in Kalispell towards the end of this month.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about Coram Experimental Forest

Fri, 01 Sep 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Tune in for this week's top headlines and for a discussion with Inter Lake Reporter Kate Heston, who tells us about why local U.S. Forest Service officials are looking to the Coram Experimental Forest to research the effects of wildfire.

Fire update for Aug. 31

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0600

Two days of healthy rainfall and cool temperatures across Northwest Montana brought an abrupt end to fire restrictions, while some public closures and evacuation notices were lifted.

This Week's Headlines

Mon, 28 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0600

An ongoing effort to construct sidewalks in Evergreen has earned nearly $1 million in federal funds, the Flathead City-County Health Department has seen a slight uptick in Covid-19 cases, and the Northwest Montana Fair’s livestock auction breaks record profits.

Daily Inter Lake’s News Now is moving to a new schedule! We will upload the full show on Fridays instead of Monday mornings. Tune in for the same great interviews and news coverage, just at a slightly different time slot.

Fire update for Aug. 25

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0600

Sanders County Sheriff Shawn Fielders said at a community meeting on Thursday that early estimates include 55 structures lost in the River Road East Fire burning near Paradise, with 15 of those being primary residences.

Fire update for Aug. 23

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 18:00:00 -0600

Crews working wildfires across Flathead County welcomed rain this week, which diminished fire activity across the region.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Northwest Montana Fair

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:00:00 -0600

We go over last week's biggest headlines and take a trip to the Northwest Montana Fair, where I spent some time with young steer handlers during the beef cattle judging.

Fire update for Aug. 21

Mon, 21 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0600

The River Road East Fire outside Paradise grew to roughly 16,790 acres by Monday, Flathead County Sheriff Brian Heino downgraded to a pre-evacuation warning for residences close to the East Fork Fire near Olney, and more regional fire news.

Fire update for Aug. 18

Fri, 18 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0600

A wildfire west of Olney expanded its footprint Friday as authorities warned nearby residents to leave the area as critical weather conditions threatened to further fan the flames.

Fire update for Aug. 17

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0600

Two wildfires along Hungry Horse Reservoir continued to stir up smoky conditions today, contributing to poor air quality for most of the Flathead Valley.

Fire update for Aug. 16

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0600

Air quality in the Flathead Valley deteriorated Wednesday as area wildfires kicked up new smoke plumes amid a record-setting heat wave.

Fire update for Aug. 14

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 14:00:00 -0600

Many fires across the region received a wetting rain last week as precipitation and a cold front moved through.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Headwaters Podcast

Mon, 14 Aug 2023 10:00:00 -0600

This week we’re taking a Deep Dive into Glacier National Park’s Headwaters podcast with producers and hosts Michael Faist and Peri Sasnett. Trending in the top 10 of Apple Podcasts Nature Charts, Michael and Peri tell us about how they approach each new season and find exciting ways to tell the stories of everything from fire lookouts to the fur trade in Glacier.

Fire update for Aug. 9

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0600

Residents on the east side of U.S. 2 between Hungry Horse and West Glacier were placed under a pre-evacuation notice Wednesday morning due to the nearby Ridge Fire.

Fire update for Aug. 8

Tue, 08 Aug 2023 17:00:00 -0600

All roads, trails and recreation sites along Hungry Horse Reservoir were closed to public access Tuesday due to wildfires actively burning in the area.

Fire update for Aug. 7

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0600

Cooler temperatures and some rain did much to slow the spread of the region’s biggest fires over the weekend.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about Glacier National Park's Reservation System

Mon, 07 Aug 2023 15:00:00 -0600

In this week's episode, we have an extra large news roundup in place of our Deep Dive segment. We go over stories about Glacier officials responding to criticisms of their vehicle reservation system, Logan Health's integration with Billings Clinic, U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke's latest trip to Whitefish and more.

Fire update for Aug. 4

Fri, 04 Aug 2023 16:00:00 -0600

The Ridge Fire near Hungry Horse more than doubles in size, evacuations and preevacuations are still in place for communities close to the Nirada Fire near Elmo and more updates from fires around northwest Montana.

Fire update for Aug. 3

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 18:00:00 -0600

It's officially fire season in northwest Montana and the Daily Inter Lake is providing daily updates. The US Air Quality Index listed Kalispell’s air quality as moderate Thursday as numerous fires continue to pour smoke into the region.

Jeremy Weber and Taylor Inman give Thursday’s updates for the wildfires burning in the Flathead and Mission Valleys as well as the surrounding areas.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Crown of the Continent Pickleball Tournament

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 09:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, Taylor chats with folks from the Two Rivers Pickleball Club in Bigfork about their upcoming Crown of the Continent Pickleball Tournament Aug. 11-13. We learn about the sport that's gaining rapid popularity in the Flathead Valley and how the Jewel Basin Center is attracting players from all across the country.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about Crime and Courts Journalism

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 08:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, we go over last week's biggest headlines and hear from Daily Inter Lake News Editor Derrick Perkins, who covered the Fuel Fitness Center shooting trial earlier this month. He goes over aspects of the trial and talks about how he covers crime and courts for the paper.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about a Kalispell Murder

Wed, 19 Jul 2023 11:00:00 -0600

In this episode of News Now, Taylor chats with Inter Lake reporter Adrian Knowler who covers the city of Kalispell. He recaps what we know about the alleged murder of 60-year-old Scott Bryan, a man living in Kalispell who was experiencing homelessness. Tune in for this conversation and a roundup of last week's biggest headlines.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Steep Canyon Rangers

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 06:00:00 -0600

In our news roundup, we report on updates from two recent deadly car crashes, a spirited Bigfork Land Use Advisory Committee meeting and a project slated in 2024 for Glacier National Park, which would close the Swiftcurrent developed area for all of 2025.

We'll hear from members of the bluegrass band the Steep Canyon Rangers, who played at the Wachholz College Center last Friday. They are Grammy award winners and frequent collaborators of comedian Steve Martin, who can also play a mean banjo. They give us a look into their love of bluegrass and their new album Morning Shift, which is out in September.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:00:00 -0600

This week's News Now episode features only the Deep Dive interview, where Taylor catches up with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Region 1 Communication and Education Program Manager Dillon Tabish, who fills us in on what’s going on with Somers Beach State Park, the potential grizzly bear delisting and what is in store for this fall’s hunting season.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about Lemonade Day

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 11:00:00 -0600

Kalispell Chamber of Commerce Workforce and Special Initiatives Director Jennifer Cronk and last year’s Lemonade Day Youth Entrepreneur of the Year Wyatt Seals tell us how to step-up our lemonade game for this year’s event, which encourages kids to learn business skills by starting their own lemonade stand on June 24.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with ImagineIF Libraries

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Every year, kids and teens flock to ImagineIF Libraries to participate in their Summer Experience. Much like a summer reading program, ImagineIF Youth Services Librarian Becca Johnson and Teen Services Librarian Starr White explain how they try to get young people engaged and outside.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about Finding the Stories of Montana Heroes

Tue, 30 May 2023 09:00:00 -0600

A new book about the heroic actions of Montana veterans will soon be released by Kalispell native and Vietnam War veteran Doug Sterner, a military historian who has spent his entire career advocating for his fellow service members. Daily Inter Lake Features Editor Heidi Desch spoke with Sterner about his new book and tells us about his process and the sometimes sensitive task of interviewing our nation's heroes.

“Beyond Belief: True Stories of Montana Heroes That Defy Comprehension” is set to be released on July 1 in hardback, paperback and Kindle on Amazon, or from the author’s website at www.herobooks.org.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Bigfork Whitewater Festival

Mon, 22 May 2023 08:00:00 -0600

Dave Meyers, an organizer with the Bigfork Whitewater Festival, stops by to chat about the long-running whitewater kayaking event that's coming up this weekend. He's been kayaking all over the world, but his hometown festival remains one of his favorites.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about the Daily Inter Lake Newsroom

Mon, 15 May 2023 12:00:00 -0600

Daily Inter Lake Regional Managing Editor Matt Baldwin joins Taylor in the podcast studio to chat about how we cover local news and what we've been discussing in the newsroom lately. During our News Roundup, we'll hear from a hiker who was missing several days in Glacier National Park and we'll see a clip from a trans legislator out of Missoula who visited the Flathead last weekend after her fiery legislative session pulled Montana into the national spotlight.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with National Weather Service

Mon, 08 May 2023 09:00:00 -0600

Taylor chats with a meteorologist from the National Weather Service forecast office in Missoula who gives us a sneak peak at their upcoming Summer Outlook Report and tells us about what trends they've seen for northwest Montana spring and summer over the past few decades.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about mental health resources in the Flathead

Mon, 01 May 2023 15:00:00 -0600

Taylor chats with Flathead County Substance Use and Mental Health Collaboration Specialist Jerramy Dear-Ruel, who explains what he believes is necessary to meet the needs of people in our region. There are multiple events planned in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month in May, including a Mental Health Symposium on May 18 at the Gateway Community Center which will featuring panelists and keynote speakers.

This Week's Headlines + Conversation with Glacier Conservancy

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 14:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Daily Inter Lake News Now, we chat with Glacier National Park Conservancy Director Doug Mitchell about some of the projects they are funding this year, as well as their upcoming online event on April 26 where Glacier's Road Supervisor Brian Paul will discuss the process of plowing the Going-to-the-Sun road.

Subscribe to Inter Lake News Now on your favorite Podcast app.

Watch and subscribe to the Daily Inter Lake's YouTube Channel to see Video and Photos.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up to date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond.

Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Help Sponsor this Podcast! Email akaufer@dailyinterlake.com

Got a news tip or want to place an ad? Contact us!

Subscribe to the Daily Inter Lake. We have an option for every reader!

This Week's Headlines + Conversation about current legislature

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode of Daily Inter Lake News Now, we go over some of last week's headlines and speak with Inter Lake reporter Kate Heston, who catches us up on what local lawmakers have been up to in Helena.

Introducing News Now

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 00:00:00 -0600

Welcome to Daily Inter Lake News Now! Our weekly news podcast where we take a closer look at our latest stories and chat about what is coming up this week in the Flathead Valley.

Hosted/Produced by: Taylor Inman
tinman@dailyinterlake.com

Special thanks to Hagadone Media Group Montana for their support.

https://www.hagadonemediagroup.com/mo...

Subscribe to Inter Lake News Now on your favorite Podcast app.

Watch and subscribe to the Daily Inter Lake's YouTube Channel to see Video and Photos.

Visit DailyInterLake.com to stay up to date with the latest breaking news from the Flathead Valley and beyond.

Find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Help Sponsor this Podcast! Email akaufer@dailyinterlake.com

Got a news tip or want to place an ad? Contact us!

Subscribe to the Daily Inter Lake. We have an option for every reader!