TAYLOR INMAN
REPORTER AND PODCAST HOST
Taylor Inman covers Bigfork and the north shore of Flathead Lake for the Bigfork Eagle and the Daily Inter Lake. Her reporting focuses on local government, community issues and the people who shape life in Northwest Montana. Inman began her journalism career at Murray State University’s public radio newsroom and later reported for WKMS, where her work aired on National Public Radio. In addition to reporting, she hosts and contributes to Daily Inter Lake podcasts including News Now. Her work connects listeners and readers with the stories shaping communities across the Flathead Valley.
IMPACT: Taylor’s work expands local journalism through both traditional reporting and digital storytelling.
Recent Stories
Curiosity for cuisine: Whitefish Chef Earl Reynolds lets twists on classics drive the menu
There are many hallmarks of success in Earl Reynolds' career, but earning a second James Beard Award nomination for the Mountain Region is something he’s wanted for years. As the executive chef of Herb and Omni in downtown Whitefish, he’s been able to get creative with locally grown ingredients and pull inspiration from all corners of life.
Kalispell barbecue truck owner appears in new Food Network competition
“Chopped Castaways” combines reality TV-style games with classic Food Network cooking competitions. Battling the elements across two grueling cooking rounds each week, competitors must build a working kitchen from basic supplies, earn their signature “Chopped” ingredient baskets through intense physical challenges and cook entirely over open fire, according to a release from the Food Network.
Limited yield: High costs force Northwest Montana farmers to restrict wheat planting
But turning the grain into staple foods sold at the bakery and served on the dinner table is facing challenges, as market constraints and the high cost to produce a decent yield have led some Flathead farmers to forgo planting this spring.
Small farm, big dreams at Lily Bend Farm
When the couple purchased 5 acres in Evergreen several years ago, a big, beautiful garden was always the goal. But they knew it was going to take a lot of hard work. On top of finding the property, getting the tools to cultivate that goal came down to good timing and luck.
Prom season keeps Kalispell shop busy
High schoolers don’t have many options to shop for formal wear locally in Northwest Montana.
Effort to raise money for new ALERT helicopter takes flight
A fundraising effort for a new ALERT helicopter is getting off the ground.
Greater Valley CEO wants to reach people who can’t afford healthcare coverage
The organization started as the Flathead Community Health Center in 2007 and operated under the Flathead City-County Health Department until 2021, when the center became an independent nonprofit, eventually rebranding as Greater Valley Health Center.
Mountain Physical Therapy and Fitness Center puts patients first
She said owning a medical clinic is not for the faint of heart—there are hiring challenges, insurance payouts to wait on and costly equipment to repair. But, creating a place where patients feel comfortable has always been her goal.
State of emergency declared after East Glacier Sewer Lagoon System fails
The Blackfeet Tribal Business Council declared a state of emergency Tuesday after the failure of the East Glacier lagoon system.
Talking shop: Retailers say providing customer service, unique experience, sets them apart
A panel of local business leaders, Sportsman and Ski Haus President Joe Power, Princess and Buck Owner Beth Kornick and President and CEO of Montana ACE Hardware Dan Conners, provided insight into the ever-changing retail landscape
Babb chef competes in ‘Indigenous Inspiration’ episode of Chopped
Mariah Gladstone, founder of Indigikitchen, will be competing on Food Network’s “Chopped” Tuesday evening, where contestants will be using Native American inspired ingredients while cooking against the clock.
Casa Luna brings a taste of Spain to the Flathead Valley
Casa Luna is a new restaurant from the Valera family, who own Casa Mexico in Kalispell and Vaqueros in Columbia Falls. Started by Francisco and Graciela Valera, Casa Mexico has been dedicated to providing friendly hospitality and top-notch Mexican food for over 20 years.
Paul Cauthen returns to Flathead Valley to launch Majestic Valley Arena into new era
An elated Paul Cauthen might have been enjoying a motorcycle ride through Big Bend National Park last week, but he was already looking forward to returning to one of his favorite destinations: Northwest Montana.
Skald Coffee’s new location a meeting place for all
The coffee shop first opened inside the Shield Arms building in Bigfork nearly two years ago.
Can man: Ryan Ellis turned a hobby into a venture that gives back to the community
It’s a labor of love for Ryan Ellis, who has always been an avid recycler.
Talking trash: A look at recycling services in the Flathead Valley
Montanans recycle 19% of the waste generated here, according to the state environmental agency. The overall U.S. recycling rate is about 32%, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Eating with the fishes: The Codfather serves up a meal you can’t refuse
Though they’ve only been open for three weeks, Wayne Tinkler’s food truck is pretty recognizable. A blue fish resembling Vito Corleone with the catchy name The Codfather is emblazoned across the black trailer.
Plant Land helps customers spring into the gardening season
Heated greenhouses at the Evergreen garden center are filled with pottery, annuals, houseplants and some early season vegetables like onions, lettuces and herbs.
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 disease early saves lives.
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.
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.
Flathead County commissioners approve septic regulation changes allowing gravity systems
In 2004, health officials worked to change septic regulations after determining that the county’s large amount of surface water required a higher level of treatment.
Greater Valley Health Center names Adam Naumann as new CEO
Adam Naumann stepped into his new role as chief executive officer of Greater Valley Health Center this past week.
Flathead Valley journalist looks back on unique career in memoir
It was breaking news, so she had to spring into action.
Bigfork Brewfest’s 17th year promises fun for all
More than two dozen brewers are flooding into downtown Bigfork on March 7 for the village’s 17th annual Brewfest.
Tech companies boot up in Northwest Montana
Technology related industry is growing in Montana, with companies in advanced manufacturing and computing continuing to add jobs throughout the entire state.
Glacier Cybersecurity founder saw hole in the market for security needs
He provides an all-in-one package for solopreneurs that includes providing a program, security awareness training, a security review with recommendations, endpoint detection and response and identity threat detection and response.
Health board accepts septic regulation changes, sends to commissioners for final approval
After months of discussion, the Flathead City-County Health Board accepted changes to the county’s septic regulation and construction standards — sending them to the Board of Commissioners for final approval.
Flathead City-County Health Board to vote on proposed septic regulation changes
Flathead-City County Health Board members will decide whether or not to pass along a recommendation to the county commissioners, who will give the final approval.
Motorist pleads guilty to vehicular homicide while under the influence
A Kalispell woman accused of killing another motorist in an alcohol-fueled New Year’s Day crash near Bigfork in 2025 pleaded guilty Thursday after striking a deal with prosecutors.
Bigfork Community Players present 'The Foreigner'
The Bigfork Community Players is producing Larry Shue’s dramatic comedy, “The Foreigner.”
Flathead High School debate duo champs look back on successful season
Flathead High School’s Josie Morrison and Padmaja Vatti were paired together on the debate team last year as freshman. One year later, the two became Public Forum Class AA state champions.
Opposition raised to change in Flathead County septic tank regulations
But not everyone agrees with the proposed change — many residents and advocacy organizations argue that allowing gravity systems is a step backward for septic standards in the county, according to letters submitted during the public comment period.
Majestic Valley Arena under new ownership
Majestic Valley Arena is under new ownership for the first time since opening its doors in 2002.
Glacier National Park displays removed, local land battles, debates and Winter Carnival honors
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.
Artificial Intelligence in the real world: How students are being prepped to use AI
Though there is hesitancy around AI, there is enthusiasm about how the technology will be used in the future, particularly when it comes to career development.
Tech company owner wants to help others feel prepared for AI
With his background in manufacturing semiconductor chips, John Ghekiere has seen cutting-edge technology become a part of everyday life. He’s watched the chips be integrated into all sorts of essential uses, from smartphones to cars.
Logan Health president Kevin Abel stepping down March 1
Logan Health President Kevin Abel is stepping down from his position, effective March 1, according to the health care organization.
Firefighter dies in parking lot accident near Bigfork
South Kalispell firefighter Ben Brown, 25, died Jan. 18 in an accident involving his own vehicle at Echo Lake Cafe near Bigfork, according to the Flathead County Sheriff’s Office.
Lakeside resident serves community as first responder
Mike Sterry has flown with American Airlines for 35 years. Though he’s called Somers his home nearly that entire time, all his flights depart from Dallas, Texas.
Wellness and recovery facility opens inside Bigfork's Montana Athletic Club
The Elysian Institute offers 15 new therapies for wellness and recovery — including cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen, IV nutrient therapy and red light therapy.
Wings supports family during son’s battle with liver cancer
During a visit to the Cary’s home in Dayton, 3-year-old Bennett abruptly stops his playtime to make some proper introductions.
Logan Health primary care providers to vote in union election this week
Physicians, nurse practitioners and physician's assistants at Logan Health primary care clinics are voting to unionize this week with the Union of American Physicians and Dentists.
Flathead County flu cases spike around holidays
Influenza season is underway in Northwest Montana, with one flu-related death reported and a spike in hospitalizations compared to this time last year.
Tax preparation: Changes following the One Big Beautiful Bill
The legislation made many of the changes from the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017 permanent — adding both short- and long-term rules. Some of the new tax laws affect 2025 taxes (to be filed in 2026), but most start in 2026 or later.
It Figures Bookkeeping offers accounting services with personal touch
The name of her accounting business, “It Figures Bookkeeping” is illuminated in hot pink neon toward the back of the room — a reminder that Booher is just as much about business as she is about fun.
Entertaining: Shows and concerts make for a busy year ahead in Northwest Montana
Between world-famous comedians and Grammy-winning artists — the options just keep coming in 2026.
Bigfork's Whistling Andy Distillery ferments its way to 15 years
Montana’s oldest distillery looks back on humble beginnings and more than a decade of serving high-quality, handcrafted spirits.
Christmas magic: Lakeside resident spreads cheer with elf character
Silver Belle is always excited to meet new people and help them get up to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus during the Journey to the North Pole cruises, which take place every holiday season on Lake Coeur d'Alene.
Blacktail Mountain Ski Area sets opening for Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve will mark the start of seven-day-a-week operations, which will continue through Jan. 4, according to a release from the ski area.