Local News
Your source for reliable, in-depth reporting on Northwest Montana’s communities, government, and daily life—delivering the stories that matter most to you.
New owner begins renovating former Outlaw Inn, details plan for extended-stay rentals
Columbia Falls developer Mick Ruis has begun renovating the former Outlaw Inn after its previous owner left the bu…
Logan Health physicians raise awareness about colorectal cancer
It’s more important than ever to get screened for colorectal cancer, according to Logan Health gastroenterologist Dr. Kate Wisser, who said catching the diseas…
Business groups sue to stop proposed ban on political spending in Montana
The Kalispell Chamber of Commerce is one of several organizations to file suit over a proposed ballot initiative to ban corporate spending in politics, arguing…
Roundup for Safety awards grant to Habitat for Humanity
Habitat for Humanity relies on a large and diverse volunteer base to build safe and affordable homes for qualified families in Flathead County.
Troy woman accused of embezzling from ambulance service
O’Brien was placed on administrative leave Dec. 26, 2025, and terminated from her position on Jan. 4, 2026.
Governor honors state employees for assisting with I-90 crash
Gov. Greg Gianforte last week honored Corporal Emily Verbanac and Corporal Megan Vinyard of the Montana Department of Transportation’s Motor Carrier Services D…
Updated stormwater plan identifies system shortfalls in Kalispell
Public Works staff on Monday presented Kalispell City Council with new data they say will help upgrade the stormwater system to prevent flooding.
Zinke looks to zip up western congressional race in favor of Flint
It was the talk of every town in western Montana in early March: Ryan Zinke had dropped out of the race for Congress, just two days before campaign filings off…
New coalition details effort to support Kalispell’s downtown
Kalispell’s Downtown Foward Coalition has identified parking and walkability as some of its long-term goals to strengthen the business district.
Mexican man who led deputies on high-speed chase in Kalispell receives federal prison sentence
A Mexican national arrested after a high-speed chase through Kalispell in June 2025 received an 18-month sentence for illegal reentry in federal court last wee…
Dedicated Polson senior earns leadership award
Polson High School senior Raya Lucas was recently presented the Winslow Nichols Leadership Award for being “committed and community-minded.”
'We know we can do the job:' Smith Valley Fire Department deploys all-woman volunteer shift
Smith Valley Fire Chief Amy Beick walked into the station one December day and saw something she’d never encountered in her two decades at the department.
Kalispell City Council reviews updated stormwater plan
Kalispell City Council on Monday will review the city’s updated stormwater facility plan.
Spoonful of magic: ‘Mary Poppins’ floats onto stage in Homeschool Theatre Club production
The stage adaptation combines the elements from P.L. Travers’ books and the Disney film, featuring unforgettable songs and dazzling choreography.
Surface and Stone Tile Co. brings selection from around the globe to Northwest Montana
Owner Kristin Kivela saw an opportunity to cater to the many people building in the Flathead Valley.
Months after the floods, a Libby family struggles to resume everyday life
A muddy 4x4 trail behind the Cernicks’ home outside Libby is the only way the family can leave their property after December’s flooding wiped out a chunk of a …