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.

Read more from this week’s show:
Measles case confirmed in Flathead County
US Census: Kalispell has grown nearly 25% since 2020
Law enforcement agencies respond to questions spawned by recent detention of Venezuelan immigrant

Read more local and state coverage:
Crews clearing the Going-to-the-Sun Road battle fewer avalanches this year
Hotel guest accused of ransacking room ordered to pay restitution
Review: A fishing story woven into the reality of internment cam

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!

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