On the steps of the Montana State Capitol, Governor Greg Gianforte was officially sworn in Monday for his second term as the 25th Governor of Montana. Accompanied by his wife, First Lady Susan Gianforte, the ceremony marked a historic milestone, as Gianforte became the first Republican governor to secure a second term since 1996. Chief Read More…
(The Center Square) − Pornhub will soon be inaccessible in 13 states after lawmakers passed a slurry of restrictions for social media and other internet sites. The bills require certain age verification measures for websites hosting adult content. A total of 16 states – Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, North Read More…
Wyoming families will soon have greater access to educational choices as the first phase of the Wyoming Education Savings Account (ESA) application process goes live on January 1, 2025. The ESA program, established under the Wyoming Education Savings Account Act signed into law in March 2024, aims to empower families by providing financial support for Read More…
In a historic milestone, the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) has announced the investment of more than $92 million in public schools, marking a record-breaking revenue contribution from the state’s trust lands. “Thanks to DNRC’s responsible management of state trust lands, this historic $92 million investment will provide our students with the Read More…
(The Center Square) – The Washington Employment Security Department (ESD) is out with June’s unemployment numbers for the state. The June rate is 4.9%, which doesn’t sound too bad until you compare Washington’s performance to the rest of the nation. “When you compare us to somewhere like North and South Dakota, they’re at the 2.0% and Read More…
MISSOULA – Despite the balmy June heat, Tamila Morgan was clad head to toe in a tan beekeeping suit as hives teeming with the fuzzy black and yellow pollinators buzzed behind her at the Fort Missoula apiary. “I’m like, really allergic to bees,” Morgan said with a laugh. “So I’m just careful.” Despite her allergy, Read More…
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority (BSPRA) announced today that the City of Helena has officially joined as a government partner, marking a crucial development in efforts to revitalize passenger rail service to southern Montana and the Greater Northwest. This rail corridor, known as the Big Sky North Coast Corridor, once operated as the North Read More…
Montana State University President Waded Cruzado has announced she will retire in June 2025, concluding a groundbreaking 15-year tenure at the helm of the state’s land-grant institution. Cruzado, who became MSU’s 12th president in 2010, has overseen a period of significant growth and innovation at the university. In a heartfelt letter to the university community, Read More…
The Wyoming National Guard proudly celebrated the fourth successful year of its Educator Leadership Rendezvous (ELR) from July 30 to August 1, 2024, at the Camp Guernsey Joint Training Center. This annual event continues to play a pivotal role in fostering strong relationships between educators and Guard members, showcasing the National Guard as a promising Read More…
The United States Supreme Court ruled today to block the Biden-Harris administration’s Title IX rule, a decision that halts the enforcement of regulations perceived as threatening the rights and safety of girls and young women. In response to the ruling, Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen issued a statement reaffirming his commitment to protecting women’s rights Read More…
The Montana Supreme Court ruled that minors do not need parental permission to obtain an abortion in the state. The decision aligns with a previous lower court ruling that found the state’s parental consent law unconstitutional under the privacy clause of the Montana Constitution. Abortion will now be the only medical procedure minors may obtain Read More…
Governor Greg Gianforte announced today that starting tomorrow, August 15, eligible Montana homeowners can claim a property tax rebate of up to $675 through the website getmyrebate.mt.gov. Homeowners have until October 1, 2024, to file their claims. “Property taxes are too high, which is why we prioritized property tax relief for Montanans in the 2023 Read More…
(The Center Square) – Proposed ballot initiatives to ban single-use plastic bags in Bozeman and Missoula have failed to qualify due to lack of signatures. Montana Plastic Free, the organization behind the ballot initiatives, says on its website that plastic is harming the environment and human health. “On average, bans on single-use plastic bags can Read More…
(The Center Square) – A now-deceased former state employee allegedly forged 13 vehicle titles to obtain almost $400,000 in fraudulent loans, South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley said Thursday. The State Department of Revenue contacted Jackley’s office in February. The Division of Criminal Investigation conducted the probe with the cooperation of the Department of Revenue Read More…
Step back in time with David Fuqua, known as ‘DinoDave,’ and embark on an unforgettable journey through his latest book, *Made In Montana*. This heartwarming collection of life stories offers readers a nostalgic glimpse into a time before cell phones, when each day was an adventure brimming with wonder and simplicity. *Made In Montana* is Read More…
BOZEMAN – Montana State University Athletics is continuing its summer tradition of movie night at Bobcat stadium with a screening of Kung Fu Panda 4 on August 22nd. The film will be shown on the stadium’s scoreboard starting at 7 p.m. Gates will open at 6 p.m. Admission is free. Popcorn and water will be Read More…
Governor Greg Gianforte presented the 2023 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation to three distinguished veterans this week, continuing his fourth annual 56 County Tour with ceremonies in Stillwater and Carbon counties. “The dedication of these Montana veterans, both in military service and their contributions to our communities, exemplifies the spirit of service,” Gov. Gianforte said. “As Read More…
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen has joined a coalition of attorneys general in urging the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to implement a new rule aimed at establishing consistent pesticide labeling requirements nationwide. The proposed rule seeks to address current discrepancies and burdens faced by farmers due to varying state regulations. Under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, Read More…
The Montana Department of Revenue (DOR) is preparing to distribute its second round of property tax rebates to eligible taxpayers. This initiative is part of a broader property tax relief package signed into law by Governor Greg Gianforte in 2023. Eligible taxpayers can receive a rebate of up to $675 on property taxes paid for Read More…
Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen is spearheading a coalition of 24 attorneys general in a high-profile inquiry into whether major asset managers are neglecting their fiduciary responsibilities to their clients. The coalition sent a letter on Thursday to 25 top asset managers, raising concerns about their support for environmental shareholder proposals recommended by Institutional Shareholder Read More…
Governor Greg Gianforte recently honored Cheryl Russell, a dedicated teacher from Havre Public Schools, with the Spirit of Montana award, recognizing her exceptional commitment to education and service. During a surprise ceremony held at Havre Public Schools, Governor Gianforte celebrated Russell’s nearly 30-year career in education. “One of the greatest pleasures I have as governor Read More…
A recent agreement facilitated by Beijing to unify Palestinian factions has sparked controversy, with experts accusing China of aligning with terrorist organizations in the Middle East. The deal, announced on July 23, involves 14 Palestinian factions, including Hamas, which the U.S. designates as a terrorist organization. The accord aims to end internal divisions and form Read More…
This month, stargazers are in for a celestial treat as the Perseid meteor shower makes its annual appearance. Known for its spectacular displays, the Perseids are set to light up the night sky during the warmest nights and early mornings of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The 2024 Perseid meteor shower promises to deliver Read More…
Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg’s office has filed a brief asserting that a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling on presidential immunity does not impact the criminal case against former President Donald Trump. The July 24 filing states that the Supreme Court’s decision “has no bearing on this prosecution” and does not warrant overturning the jury’s Read More…
A former senior director of fiscal services for the Magnolia School District has been sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for embezzling nearly $16.7 million from the district, federal officials announced Thursday. Jorge Armando Contreras, 53, was also ordered to pay restitution totaling $16,694,942. Contreras, who held his position with the district—serving Anaheim and Read More…
Casey Childers of Sheridan has been sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murder of Rachel Holeman, a Montana woman, in Colorado. Childers was convicted of first-degree murder, second-degree kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit second-degree kidnapping, according to Sheridan Media. The case unfolded in November 2021 when Childers, Shantel Edlund Read More…
Israel’s air force has launched airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon following a deadly rocket attack that killed 12 children and young adults in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights on Saturday. The attack, which struck a football pitch in the Druze town of Majdal Shams, has intensified tensions between Israel and the Lebanese militant group. The Read More…
Following an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump earlier this month, the FBI has confirmed that Trump was indeed hit by a bullet. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump described being “shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.” The FBI’s confirmation came Friday evening, verifying Read More…
HELENA, Mont. – Governor Greg Gianforte today issued an executive order declaring a disaster in Missoula and Mineral counties. “A recent severe thunderstorm toppled trees and downed power poles in the Missoula area, leaving too many residents without power. I appreciate the rapid response of our electric cooperatives to restore power to affected communities,” Gov. Read More…
(The Center Square) – A coalition of Republican attorneys general have called on the U.S. Senate to pass the SAVE Act, a bill that would ensure additional safeguards are in place to prevent noncitizens from voting in federal elections. The coalition, led by Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, sent a letter to the leaders of Read More…
BOZEMAN — The Montana 4-H Foundation has recently disbursed close to $40,000 in scholarships to 45 graduating 4-H members and alumni across the state, aiming to support their educational pursuits for the upcoming academic year of 2024-2025. The recipients, representing 28 counties and tribal areas in Montana, were honored during the 2024 Montana 4-H Congress Read More…
Southeastern Idaho boasts abundant wildlife and expansive outdoor adventures, but perhaps none captivates local interest and conversation quite like the mule deer. Thriving in the sagebrush steppe and mountain shrub/aspen habitats that define the region, mule deer hold a special place in the hearts of Idahoans. However, the iconic mule deer herds face numerous challenges. Read More…
In a distinguished accolade, Quincy Walter of Wolf Point has been named the 2024 Montana “State Star” by the Montana Department of Commerce and the Montana Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network. This national honor recognizes outstanding contributions and performance among SBDC directors across the country. Walter, serving as SBDC Regional Director hosted by the Read More…
Governor Greg Gianforte recently engaged with the Rocky Boy Agency Tribal council in Box Elder, Montana, to discuss significant investments in behavioral health care across north central Montana. During his visit to the Rocky Boy Health Center, Governor Gianforte underscored the state’s commitment to supporting mental health and substance abuse initiatives rather than neglecting those Read More…
Senator Steve Daines made a compelling case today at a Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing for the delisting of grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone and Northern Continental Divide Ecosystems. He highlighted the discrepancy between the robust grizzly populations and the prolonged delay in their delisting review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Read More…
South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley has announced a significant development in a case involving alleged embezzlement from the state’s Department of Social Services. Lonna Carroll, 68, of Algona, IA, has been indicted for reportedly stealing an estimated $1.8 million in state and federal funds from the department’s Child Protection Services program. Carroll faces two Read More…
J. Michael Cline, the founder of Fandango, tragically passed away after a fatal fall from a luxury hotel in New York City on Tuesday morning, authorities have confirmed. Cline, aged 64 and a resident of Palm Beach, Florida, was discovered “unconscious and unresponsive” at the Kimberly Hotel located at 145 East 50th St. in Manhattan. Read More…
In a significant development aimed at combating human trafficking, DeliverFund, a nonprofit specializing in intelligence operations, has partnered with Whooster, a leading provider of investigative data solutions. This collaboration marks a pivotal advancement in leveraging technology to fight against one of the world’s most pressing issues. Whooster, renowned for its cutting-edge data analysis intelligence SaaS Read More…
A newly established nonprofit organization, the Unbreakables Foundation, has announced its inaugural initiatives aimed at enhancing self-reliance and welfare among disadvantaged families in the United States and former conflict zones. Founded under the leadership of Braxton Norwood PhD, Unbreakables Foundation is dedicated to fostering independence and prosperity for vulnerable groups, with a particular emphasis on Read More…
Governor Doug Burgum has appointed Greg Hoffman to serve as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) of the North Dakota Information Technology (NDIT) department, effective immediately. Hoffman, recognized for his extensive leadership within the agency, steps into the role following his tenure as interim CIO since June 1, succeeding Kuldip Mohanty. With a career spanning nearly Read More…
CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Wyoming Transportation Commission is scheduled to convene for its regular business meeting on Thursday, July 18, starting at 8:30 a.m. The meeting will be conducted exclusively via Zoom to address agenda items and conduct necessary votes. The primary agenda items include critical discussions related to transportation infrastructure and pertinent statewide initiatives. Read More…
The FBI has identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the suspect in the attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The incident, which unfolded on Saturday, ended with the suspect being fatally shot by Secret Service agents just seconds after shots were fired towards the stage where Trump was addressing the crowd. According to Read More…
BOZEMAN – Montana State University scientist Blake Wiedenheft was recognized last month with a prestigious award from agricultural deans and directors around the Western U.S. Wiedenheft received the Agricultural Research and Innovation Award from agInnovation West, an organization made up of the experiment station directors and agriculture deans at land-grant universities in the western half Read More…
A terrifying scene unfolded at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday as former President Donald Trump narrowly escaped an apparent assassination attempt. Law enforcement officials confirmed that Trump was the target of gunfire during his speech, resulting in injuries to the former president. Trump, with blood visible on his ear, was swiftly whisked away Read More…