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

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.

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 https://lorensauto.com/

March 10, 2025

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

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/

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.

March 4, 2025

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

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

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.

March 1, 2025