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.

Read more from this week’s show:
School and special district election results
Daines proposes expanding federal funds for some public land projects
Community pitches in to prepare Libby for baseball tournament

Read more local and state coverage:
Flathead Valley burglary ringleader busted, Sheriff’s Office says
Venezuela man detained by Whitefish Border Patrol is released after week of protests
New director looks to lead Evergreen Chamber of Commerce

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 — coming Sunday, September 21st! 

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.