Bill to allow cigar bars in Montana spurs debate

If Montana allows cigar bars, residents and tourists will be able to enjoy a “premium, hand rolled cigar” on their visits, one proponent argued.

My first muley: Persevering and pushing onward

For the last three rifle seasons, I’ve set out to harvest my first mule deer buck.

Mineral County law roundup

Wildland Fire, I-90, French Town Units, West End Units and Forest Service responded.

Mineral County Sheriff's Office logs

Mineral County Sheriff's Office logs

Mineral County Sheriff's Office calls

Mineral County Sheriff's Office calls

COVID plans put to test as firefighters crowd camps

HELENA — Jon Paul was leery entering his first wildfire camp of the year late last month to fight three lightning-caused fires scorching parts of a Northern California forest that hadn’t burned in 40 years.

Officials look for answers from U.S. Attorney on Public Law 280

Frustration seemed to be the tenor this week at the Lake County Courthouse as public officials contemplate their withdrawal from Public Law 280, which has given the county felony jurisdiction over tribal members on the Flathead Reservation for nearly 60 years.

Legals for April, 10 2024

Public Law 280: The path forward

“You have my commitment that – no matter what happens going forward – if you call 911, we're coming,” Lake County Sheriff Don Bell said during a crowded meeting at the Lake County Courthouse last Thursday.

Firefighters battle several lightning-caused blazes in Western Montana

U.S. Forest Service firefighters worked with local crews on the Lolo while Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribal personnel continued to actively battle several fires after last Wednesday’s thunderstorms.

U.S. Rep. Gianforte stops at Tricon Timber

Last week marked Greg Gianforte’s third visit to Tricon Timber in St. Regis, but it was his first visit as a member of the United States House of Representatives for Montana. His visit took place on Monday, July 3, just one week after he had been sworn in.

Future uncertain for forest projects

On Monday Sept. 30, Northern Regional Forester Faye Krueger announced that the Cedar Thom Project had been placed at the top of the priority list for working with Fish and Wildlife Service and getting to the boots on the ground phase.

Concerns raised over principal leave

Three weeks ago St. Regis Principal Tammy Demien was asked to leave campus and told she was being placed on administrative leave until an investigation by the Montana School Board Association is concluded.

Legals for May, 22 2024

Superior resident opens Room to Breathe Counseling

Taking what you’re passionate about and turning it into your profession is every adult’s deepest aspiration; this is true whether you’re 18 or 58.

Hecla CEO ready to move on after 'bad actor' ruling

A three-year “bad actor” case against the president and CEO was recently dismissed. As far as Baker is concerned, it was overdue.

Wildfire burn scars affect West's drinking water

In “burn scars,” where fires decimated forest systems that held soil in place, an increase in droughts followed by heavy rainfall poses a different kind of threat to the water supplies that are essential to the health of communities.

Syrian refugees are not welcome in Sanders County

THOMPSON FALLS — The message is clear from the Sanders County Board of Commissioners: We do not want Syrian refugees on our land, “draining” resources, “impacting” the tax base, and possibly putting everyone in harm’s way. In an official letter addressing the issue, the commissioners cite a vetting process that is “foolproof”—meaning, one that cannot fail. Ever. And so, they have heard many voices ranging from Syrians are automatically terrorists to anti-Muslim attitudes—because according to many people, being a Muslim is proof of an egregious slight against the laws of God and nature.

Plains Library earns state recognition

For their hard work and dedication, Plains Public Library, staff, and volunteers received the Excellent Library Service Award (ELSA) by the Montana State Library Commission.

States reconsider religious exemptions for vaccinations in child care

More than half the children who attend Munchkin Land Daycare near Billings, Montana, have special needs or compromised immune systems. The kids, who range in age from 4 months to 9 years, have conditions that include fetal alcohol syndrome, cystic fibrosis, and Down syndrome, according to owner Sheryl Hutzenbiler.