The Montana Department of Revenue is reporting that marijuana sales in Valley County totaled $160,555 in the month of September. This is down an estimated $6000 compared to August of 2025.

Montana had $27.8 million in sales for September of 2025.

National Weather Service:

Rain will continue through Friday morning before moving east out of Montana. Additional rainfall up to 1.5" is expected in some areas, which may impact road conditions on unpaved or gravel roads. Localized ponding on roads could lead to hydroplaning!

The Montana Department of Livestock (MDOL) is investigating a report of potential feral swine in Phillips County.

The initial report, received by USDA Wildlife Services, described a bear getting into a barn and livestock feed.

However, upon investigation, evidence such as pig scat and tracks indicated the presence of swine, with no signs of a bear.

The swine were later identified as owned domestic swine that are running uncontained and beginning to show behaviors and characteristics consistent with feral swine populations.

Montana state law prohibits swine from living in a feral state and domestic swine from running at large.

Will it, or won’t it? The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline could reach the 3-dollar mark for the first time in 4 years. Since last week, the national average has dropped more than 5 cents to $3.05. Several factors are behind the drop, including falling crude oil prices, lower gasoline demand, and cheaper winter-blend gasoline at the pump. The tropics have been relatively quiet, and storm activity hasn’t had an impact on gas prices.

Today’s National Average: $3.057

One Week Ago: $3.110

One Month Ago: $3.186

One Year Ago: $3.203

The average price in Montana is $3.09 per gallon which is down from $3.24 per gallon one month ago. The average price in Valley County is $3.01 per gallon.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand decreased from 8.91 million b/d last week to 8.45 million. Total domestic gasoline supply decreased from 219.1 million barrels to 218.8 million. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.4 million barrels per day.

Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI fell 43 cents to settle at $58.27 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories increased by 3.5 million barrels from the previous week. At 423.8 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 4% below the five-year average for this time of year.

State Stats

Gas

The nation’s top 10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.64), Hawaii ($4.48), Washington ($4.44), Oregon ($4.05), Nevada ($3.87), Alaska ($3.86), Idaho ($3.45), Arizona ($3.43), Utah ($3.37), and Pennsylvania ($3.23).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Oklahoma ($2.56), Arkansas ($2.63), Texas ($2.64), Mississippi ($2.64), Wisconsin ($2.65), Louisiana ($2.67), Ohio ($2.67), Kentucky ($2.68), Missouri ($2.70), and Tennessee ($2.72).

Pictured: Left to right: Mariah Branson, Taylor Hohlen, Sarah Meiers, Brandt Burns

(Press Release) The Frances Mahon Deaconess Hospital (FMDH) Foundation’s annual dinner, the Secret Garden Soirée, was an evening to remember, and one that made a lasting impact. Held at the Cottonwood Inn & Suites, the event brought together around 150 guests and raised more than $21,000 in support of the Foundation’s mission - providing financial support to FMDH and other medically needed projects throughout Valley County.

The Cottonwood was truly transformed into a hidden garden wonderland. Guests dined under faux floral chandeliers, enjoyed fresh bud vases at every table, and lined up to snap photos in front of a gorgeous faux flower wall that doubled as the perfect photo booth backdrop. From the garden-inspired food and cocktail menu to the soulful performance by Tomara Conrad, who traveled from Polson, Montana, the evening was filled with warmth, laughter, and a true sense of community.

The night’s showstopper was the raffle for a custom, 14kt yellow gold ring designed and donated by Baker’s Jewelry. Valued at $7,995, the one-of-a-kind piece featured a dazzling 1.01ct oval diamond, 0.44ctw of accent diamonds with elegant half-moons on each side, and hidden diamonds tucked beneath the center. A delicate beaded detail and claw prongs completed the timeless design.

And the lucky winner? Sarah Meiers!

“We’re incredibly grateful for everyone who attended, donated, and supported this year’s soirée,” said Taylor Hohlen, FMDH Foundation Coordinator. “Your generosity helps us continue providing scholarships and equipment that directly benefit our patients and community.”

The FMDH Foundation Board of Directors extends a heartfelt thank-you to everyone who made the Secret Garden Soirée such a success — from our sponsors and volunteers to the guests who filled the room with joy and generosity. It truly takes many helping hands to bring an event like this to life.

We’re already looking forward to celebrating with you all again next year!

The Montana Lottery will add 120,000 more tickets and a fifth million-dollar prize for the 2025 Montana Millionaire.

This year, the lottery will sell 620,000 tickets, offer five $1 million grand prizes (up from four last year), feature more instant-win prizes, and include a “Quarter Million Monday” drawing for $250,000 on December 1.

There will be 2,500 Instant Win tickets of $500 each; there will be 6,100 Instant Win tickets valued at $100 each.

Tickets cost $20 each, and they will go on sale on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at 5:30 a.m.

Last year’s Montana Millionaire tickets — 500,000 in total — sold out in less than three hours.

Lottery officials said they were surprised by the quick sale of all tickets, since they had increased the number by 120,000 that year.

"We've listened to our players and sales agents and combined their feedback with our team's knowledge to responsibly enhance the 2025 Montana Millionaire after last year's surprising sell-out," commented Montana Lottery director Bob Brown.

Montana Millionaire FAQ

The Montana Lottery has provided responses to several frequently-asked questions:

Why don’t you limit Montana Millionaire to Montana residents only? The Montana Lottery is available to everyone of legal age, whether resident or visitor. Limiting the sale of a product to some people while excluding others is discrimination. It would also be contrary to our mission and place an undue burden on our retailers.

Why don’t you limit the number of Montana Millionaire tickets someone can buy? The mission of the Montana Lottery is to maximize revenue for the State of Montana. Our proceeds fund Montana’s STEM/Healthcare Scholarship Program and contribute to the General Fund. To limit sales of our products would be contrary to our mission and result in less positive impact for the residents of Montana.

Why don’t you offer Montana Millionaire or another raffle game more than once per year? The Montana Lottery has a large selection of games available every day of the year. We believe Montana Millionaire is special and successful because it’s exclusive. While it is not impossible that we may introduce other raffle games in the future, currently we have made this strategic business decision based on detailed market research and analysis.

Where Does the Money Go?
Money generated from the lottery is used in several ways.

“The lottery exists to generate revenue for the State of Montana. Most sales go towards paying prizes, operations, and essentially whatever is left at the end of that is what goes back to the state. That’s determined by state legislative action and the beneficiary, as we call it, has changed a number of times,” Montana Lottery content manager Dan Iverson told MTN News several months ago.

Currently, the first $2.25 million goes to the Montana Stem/Healthcare Scholarship Program, operated by the Office Of The Commissioner Of Higher Education and the Montana University System. Whatever is left goes to the state's general fund, which is dictated by the legislature.

2024 Winning Tickets
In 20224, Montana Millionaire featured 500,000 tickets; all of the tickets sold out within three hours.

The four grand prize-winning tickets were drawn on Thursday, December 26, 2024. The winning tickets and where they were sold:

021333 – Cranny’s Club Tavern & Casino in Dillon
077800 – Super 1 Foods in Great Falls
143115 – Grand Slam Casino in Great Falls
416013 – Beartooth Harley Davidson in Billings

Valley County will hold four municipal general elections:

City of Glasgow

City of Glasgow, Alderman, Ward 2

Randy Lasar

Darcia Schindler

City of Glasgow, Alderman, Ward 3

Kristie Brabeck

Danny Carr

Town of Fort Peck, Alderman (2 seats)

Glenn R Guenther

Joseph J French

Kevin Vogel

Town of Opheim, Alderman, Ward 2, 2-year term to fulfill

Les Redfield
Anita Leinen

All four elections are mail-ballot elections. Ballots will be mailed out this Friday, October 17, 2025. Election Day is Tuesday, November 4, 2025. The election office will be open on Election Day from 7 am to 8 pm. Ballots must be received in the election office by 8 pm November 4, 2025, to be counted. Please remember that, in addition to signing the signature envelope, voters must enter the year of their birth in the space provided on the signature envelope prior to returning their ballot. Ballots returned without both the voter’s signature AND their year of birth on the signature envelope cannot be counted.

The Montana Department of Commerce is set to divvy out $300,000 in agritourism grant funding following the passage of legislation this session.

The agency is taking applications for the program until Oct. 23 and it’s the second cycle of funding for agritourism in the state, commerce spokesperson Mitch Staley wrote in an email. The funding started in 2023 and was reupped as part of Senate Bill 405, brought by Montana Sen. Daniel Zolnikov, R-Billings, this past session.

“Especially in some of the more dry land areas, diversifying how they get their income helps alleviate a lot of the risk that some of these farmers, ranchers face with bad weather years,” Zolnikov said during a Senate Finance and Claims meeting earlier this year.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture defines agritourism as “farm services for recreation (such as hunting or fishing), hospitality (such as overnight accommodations), or entertainment (such as festivals or petting zoos)” which it says generated $1.26 billion in revenue for farms and ranches around the country in 2022.

This is extra revenue beyond whatever they are generating from farming or cattle ranching operations. America’s farms contributed about $222 billion total to the U.S. economy in 2023.

A new nonprofit, the Montana Agritourism Association, works closely with producers around the state.

“Our work is a producer-led knowledge hub, helping farmers, ranchers and producers open their gates to visitors safely and successfully, connecting them with training, resources and partners across Montana,” said Debbie Queen, an agritourism specialist with the organization. “We focus on three things producers tell us matter most: business fundamentals, safety and risk awareness, and a great guest experience. When those are in place, everybody wins—hosts, visitors, and the local economy.”

A 2024 survey of Montana producers found that 71% said agritourism strengthens their ability to keep working their land, the organization states.

Individual grants are worth up to $50,000, presenters said.

“We’re encouraging projects and activities of all sizes. The intent is to help farmers and ranchers diversify revenue options through a new or enhanced agritourism activity,” Susan Joy, a program specialist with the Department of Commerce said during the presentation. “The grants are also meant to support activities in rural, under visited and tribal locations throughout Montana that will generate tourism revenue for the benefit of your local economy.”

The Montana Public Service Commission last week approved a rate increase for Montana-Dakota Utilities Co. natural gas customers, bringing the average monthly bill to $60.54.

That dollar amount is up from $44.61 in July of last year when Montana Dakota Utilities (MDU) first asked the Public Service Commission to approve their rate increase request, culminating in a 36% hike.

The all-Republican Public Service Commission (PSC) is only responsible for approving a portion of that total increase, as other parts of it are made up by other charges that the commission can't regulate.

The increase, approved 4-0 with one commissioner absent, will result in a $7.3 million surge in annual revenue for MDU, about $2 million less than they initially requested.

The Montana Consumer Counsel, a state agency that represents the interests of ratepayers in the state, intervened in the case and proposed a lower $5.4 million increase, and the two settled at the $7.3 million figure.

The PSC is tasked with regulating monopoly utility companies in the state, and is responsible for balancing the interests of ratepayers and the utility companies.

he Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission voted Thursday to limit the number of white-tailed doe tags available for hunters in Region 6 in northeast Montana because of outbreaks of a hemorrhagic virus that is killing deer in pockets across the state but particularly so along the Milk River.

Commission Chair Lesley Robinson, representing Region 6, said landowners in the area had already seen suspected cases of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) ravage white-tailed deer populations in recent weeks. One man near Malta told her he’d found 60 dead deer in the past month and another had told her he could hardly go outside because of the stench of dead deer.

She said areas along both sides of the Milk River are seeing “extreme” effects this year from the virus, which is not uncommon in parts of Montana but varies by year as to how hard it might hit deer, pronghorn and other ruminants.

“I know we’ve had this before but it’s really bad in Region 6,” she said. "Very few live deer are being spotted in the areas this is happening.”

EHD is transmitted by biting midge gnats and can affect a wide range of ruminants, but most often white-tailed deer. The particular type of midge that carries the virus is most often found in muddy and moist areas, and the virus historically has been most common in eastern Montana, though it was first detected on the western side of the Continental Divide in 2013, when a bad outbreak hit the Missoula area.

That year, the commission also stopped selling over-the-counter white-tailed B licenses in both Region 6 and parts of Region 4 because of EHD.

Animals typically display few symptoms of the virus before a quick death, FWP Game Management Bureau Chief Brian Wakeling said Thursday. They often quickly grow weak, start salivating excessively and can develop fevers. That often leads them to water, where they die of internal bleeding. The virus is not transmittable to humans, but officials say meat from sick animals may not be safe for consumption by humans and other animals.

The midges are active during the summer and when temperatures remain warm in early fall, but they are often killed off by freezes. Virus outbreaks are typically highly localized, Wakeling said.

“At times you can have a lot of animals dying. You described a landowner mentioning 60 animals die. Two miles away, there may not have been any animals die, and so it tends to be real sporadic,” he said.

Though the virus seems to have hit northeast Montana worse than other parts of the state this year, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has been warning of suspected cases being identified across the state for the past month.

In mid-September, FWP warned they had found suspected EHD in white-tailed deer near Eureka and Plains in northwestern Montana. The commission added the proposed EHD adjustments to Region 6 to Thursday’s meeting agenda on Monday, and FWP on Wednesday announced it had also identified suspected EHD in white-tailed deer along the Clark Fork River near Missoula and Frenchtown, as well as along the Blackfoot River near Lincoln and Potomac.

The concern from the department and commissioners is since the highest concentrations of the virus appear to be in Region 6, continuing to allow hunters to buy up to three white-tailed doe tags — known as 006-00 B tags — could lead to an overharvest of the species when the number of deer killed by hunters is combined with the EHD losses.

FWP Licensing Bureau Chief Emily Cooper said as of Thursday’s meeting, 1,437 of those tags had already been sold this year in the region. Of those who purchased the tags, 169 hunters bought three tags and 175 bought two. Last year, there were 4,788 total sold.

FWP’s initial proposal sought to limit future sales of the license this season to one per person. But after about an hour of discussion — including about whether there should be a limit or full-stop on license sales, or a possible special hunting closure — the commission decided it would cap total sales at 2,000, meaning there would be only 563 of the tags remaining for sale.

The changes also kept in place the prohibition on selling second or third tags to a single hunter, though some commissioners and members of the public wondered if that might create a situation where more hunters are coming to try to fill a single tag.

There was also some concern about overharvest in Region 7, both due to the presence of EHD there and the idea that more Region 6 hunters might head southeast under the new restrictions. But Region 7 Commissioner Bill Lane said regional biologists had advised against any changes to the season there.

“If they do not see the need to put any limitations on it, I at this point don’t feel the need to bring it forward,” he said.

Region 2 Commissioner Jeff Burrows said he would like the commission at some point to consider putting something akin to hoot-owl fishing closures in place for hunting when viruses, prion diseases or other illnesses could greatly affect a targeted species’ population.

Robinson told Region 6 officials she would like to see them come up with a plan in the next year on how the commission could close particular areas along the Milk River in the event a similar outbreak occurs in the future, which most everyone at FWP said Thursday was not currently an easy solution because of the river, Highway 2, and hunting district boundaries.

Before the change to cap the tags in the region at 2,000, Robinson said she was struggling to come up with a good overall solution because she would have liked to have been able to issue a specific closure.

“I don’t really feel this is enough, but I don’t know what we can do that’s a manageable fix for this year,” she said. “But this does hopefully take a big dent out of it.”

And Wakeling said that the recent cooler weather across most of the state, and some hard freezes and snow expected over the weekend and early next week, might spell the end of this year’s EHD threat.

“We’re moving towards winter, and so we would expect a more routine winter pattern,” he said. “When that happens, those vectors that caused and carry that disease, they die, and the problem goes away. The disease is no longer spreading.”

Release from Valley Community Emergency Food Bank:

Today we want to give a big THANK YOU to the Caring Hands organization for the generous donation of $11,000 toward our new building. We can’t do it without generous support like this! Thank you!

The Valley CARE Coalition will be holding a Trunk Or Treat event in the Reynolds Market parking lot on Thursday, October 30th, from 4:30 - 7:00 p.m.

Free popcorn and cocoa will be given out while supplies last. Bring your children for a safe and festive evening, filled with decorated trunks and sweet treats.

If you're interested in decorating your trunk and joining the fun, contact Teresa Garner at tersa.garner@mt.gov

The maximum temperature for last month was 93 on September 1st; the lowest temperature of the month was just 4 days later, on September 5th, when the low hit 39 degrees.

The average high for the month was 81 (normal 72.9) The average low was 49.8 (normal 46.9) The average temp for the month was 65.4, 5.5 degrees above normal.

We only had one day with over one hundredth of an inch of moisture: Glasgow received .21 on September 13th. And only two other days saw anything above a trace: September 11th and 16th Glasgow received one hundredth.

The average precipitation in September is 1.06 inches; this year Glasgow saw just .23 of an inch.

More than 50 volunteers shared their love of ranching and farming, with plans to bring the experience to Glasgow’s Irle Elementary School in 2026.

MALTA, MT – The ranch yard at Hinman Angus was alive with laughter this September as more than 200 Malta Elementary students spent a day learning, tasting, and exploring during Ag Education Day. Students milked a cow, churned cream into butter, felt freshly sheared wool, and discovered how water moves across farmland in a sand irrigation trailer.

By the end of the day, there were dirty clothes, sticky fingers from hand-shaken ice cream, and smiles all around. The goal was simple: help students see, touch, and taste where their food comes from.
“We have a lot of enthusiasm for hosting Ag Day here at Hinman Angus,” said Heidi Lulloff. “All four generations on the ranch participate in the planning and preparing. The day gets students out into the fresh air of a ranch environment and gives them a hands-on opportunity to make connections of food production from pasture to plate. We support every effort to preserve and promote local family farms and ranches to ensure the next generation can continue with the agriculture tradition.”

Organized by Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) and the Phillips County Cattlewomen (PCC) in collaboration with Hinman Angus, more than 50 volunteers from across Phillips County joined in, including neighbors, ranching families, and community groups who ran stations, baked cookies, and shared what they love about agriculture. It was a snapshot of what makes Montana’s Hi-Line special: people who show up, pitch in, and take pride in passing their way of life on to the next generation.

Phillips County stretches wide, with nearly 1.9 million acres of farmland and pasture and more than 70,000 head of cattle. By comparison, the number of Malta students in grades one through five could fill only a few buses. The scale might seem lopsided, but that is what makes this place unique. It is not about the
numbers. It is about the people who keep the connection between land and community alive.

As Mary Oxarart, President of PCC and Education Program Manager for RSA, said, “When you see so many people give their time to teach kids about agriculture, it shows how much we care about the future of both our children and our industry.”

With the success of this year’s event, plans are already underway to bring Ag Education Day back to Malta in 2026. The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance is also in conversation with the Glasgow School District to bring this opportunity to Irle Elementary School in partnership with Valley County ranchers.
For one bright fall day, the classroom had no walls, and the lessons were written in hoofprints, laughter, and community spirit. Ag Education Day was not just about learning where food comes from. It was about celebrating the people who make it all possible and the community we call home.

###

About the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA): The Ranchers Stewardship Alliance believes in a future where ranching and rural communities in the Northern Great Plains are so successful that ranch families never have to consider selling or transitioning their land out of production agriculture. Guided by the stewardship of ranchers, conservation, and community, RSA helps producers strengthen both their operations and the landscapes they depend on. Through educational programs, cost-share opportunities, and community partnerships, RSA works to support ranchers while sustaining wildlife habitat and the rural towns that make this region home.

From the Glasgow Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture: it has come to our attention that a $20.00 counterfeit bill was passed here in Glasgow. Please check your bills very carefully.

The National Weather Service is predicting rain, and possibly some light snow, for areas near the Canadian border and the Little Rockies this weekend.

Winds are expected to increase today (Friday) with a Lake Wind Advisory in effect for Fort Peck Lake from 11 a.m. until 9 p.m. Saturday highs will reach the upper 70's, but then temperatures will drop to the mid 30's on Saturday night. Winds will increase again, with gusts as high as 35 mph Saturday night, and up to 45 mph on Sunday.

At this point, it looks like the best chance of precipitation will be Saturday night into Sunday morning, with a 70-80% chance. In Glasgow, that should be all rain.

City crews repaired the leaking water main valve before 1 p.m. on Friday, so service has now been restored in the 1st Avenue North and Railroad Alley North areas.

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Region 6 Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) will meet from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 15, at the Best Western Great Northern Inn in Havre at 1345 1st Street. The public is welcome to attend.

The meeting will include regional updates from all Region 6 FWP divisions and a CAC roundtable.

Each of FWP’s seven administrative regions has a volunteer CAC to help guide policies and programs. The Region 6 group meets three to four times a year.

FWP ensures that its meetings are fully accessible to persons with disabilities. To request special accommodations for this meeting, please contact 406-228-3700.

U.S. SENATE – U.S. Senators Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, as well as Representatives Troy Downing (MT-02) and Ryan Zinke (MT-01) today applauded the Senate passage of their bill that removes the harmful Biden-era Miles City Resource Management Plan Amendment (RMPA), which will further help unleash Made-In-Montana energy.

“Montana energy is back. Biden’s Miles City RMPA was an anti-coal rule that stifled mining in eastern Montana and would have cost many hard-working Montanans their jobs. Mining is a vital part of Montana, providing nearly a thousand well-paying jobs and contributing nearly $3 billion to our state’s economy. That’s why I introduced a bill along with the rest of our Montana delegation to remove this anti-energy rule and support Montana’s coal miners. I’m thrilled to see our resolution pass the U.S. Senate today and look forward to President Trump signing it into law,” said Daines.

“Montanans voted to make America energy dominant, and we are delivering by putting an end to disastrous Biden-era regulations that put our resource economy on life support. As your Senator, one of my top priorities is supporting Montana’s resource economy so we can create jobs, power America, and make Montana energy affordable, accessible, and reliable again. I’ll continue to work alongside President Trump and the Montana delegation to make America energy dominant, protect Montana jobs, and unleash prosperity in Montana’s rural communities,” said Sheehy.

“I’m proud to see my bill to overturn the Biden Administration's outright ban on coal leasing in the Powder River Basin pass the Senate today. H.J. Res. 104 will unleash Montana-made energy, bolstering our national security and ensuring Montanans have access to the affordable, reliable energy they need to thrive for generations to come. I am grateful to Senator Daines for his leadership and to my fellow delegation members for standing side by side with me in championing this legislation. I look forward to watching President Trump sign this bill into law and usher in a new age of American energy dominance,” said Downing.

“The Biden administration’s Miles City Resource Management Plan hurt Montana workers and put America’s energy security at risk. True energy dominance requires an all-of-the-above approach that includes Montana’s clean coal. Our economy runs on reliable, abundant, and affordable power, and that need will only grow with increased demand from AI and data centers. This bill puts Montana back in the driver’s seat to protect jobs and secure our energy future. I look forward to seeing the President sign it into law,” said Zinke.

BOZEMAN — Montana high school students eager to excel at advanced mathematics are invited to register for free mathematics contests set for Wednesday, Nov. 5, and Thursday, Nov. 13, at Montana State University. Exams are administered in person on campus in Bozeman, and results are submitted online and measured against a national competition pool.

The American Mathematics Competition 10/12 contests, hosted by MSU’s Science Math Resource Center in the College of Education, Health and Human Development, were developed by the Mathematical Association of America. The competition series provides an opportunity for high school students to develop improved analytical thinking, problem-solving and advanced mathematics skills.

The AMC 10 exam covers the high school mathematics curriculum through grade 10. AMC 12 covers high school math including trigonometry, advanced algebra and advanced geometry, but excluding calculus. Both exams are 25 questions, multiple choice, and administered in 75 minutes.

The AMC 10 and 12 tests to be given on Nov. 5 (called Test A) and Nov. 13 (Test B) have the same scoring and rules of administration. Test A and Test B examinations are designed to be equal in difficulty and distribution of topics, but the questions are unique to each exam. Students may register for either contest, or both.

Students through 10th grade and under 17 1/2 years old are eligible to participate in AMC 10; students through 12th grade and under 19 1/2 years old may participate in AMC 12. Students who score among the top national participants will be invited to take the American Invitational Mathematics Examination. Top scorers will also receive gift cards.

Competitions are challenging yet presented in a friendly and supportive environment. Organizers hope the contests will help students gain self-confidence, recognize their talents and foster a love for mathematics.

Registration is free for Montana students and is open until Oct. 29 for the Nov. 5 tests and until Nov. 5 for the Nov. 13 tests. For more information, visit www.montana.edu/smrc/stem-outreach/math-circle/american-mathematics-competitions.html or contact the MSU Science Math Resource Center at smrc@montana.edu or 406-994-7476.

The Glasgow School Board will meet on Wednesday at 6pm in the Gary F. Martin Board Room.

Get your trivialocation skills ready for "Bats and Brews Trivia" on Thursday, Oct. 9, starting at 6 p.m. at the Busted Knuckle Taproom in Glasgow.

Join Montana FWP and gather a team of your bat-expert friends for a night of learning about bats and bat conservation, and to have a chance to win some cool prizes!

Thanks to the Busted Knuckle for hosting and for having "Bat Pint Night," as they'll be donating $1 for every pint sold back into bat conservation.

Although overall runoff for September 2025 in the upper Missouri River Basin was above average, runoff in the Fort Peck and Garrison reaches continues to be well-below average.

“Beneficial rainfall occurred over central South Dakota and North Dakota in September resulting in well-above average runoff into Oahe, Big Bend, Fort Randall, and Gavins Point,” said John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division.

“The above-average runoff combined with the lower releases from Gavins Point slightly improves the System storage outlook for the beginning of the 2026 runoff season,” Remus added.

September runoff was 1.3 million acre-feet, 109% of average above Sioux City. Upper Basin contributions from Garrison Dam to Sioux City, IA made up 72% of the September runoff, while the reaches above Garrison Dam contributed 28% of the runoff. By comparison, the Fort Peck and Garrison reaches normally contribute about 65% of September’s upper Basin runoff. Upper Basin runoff for October is forecast to be about 75% of average, due to ongoing below-average forecasts in the Fort Peck and Garrison reaches. The updated 2025 calendar year forecast for the upper Basin is 19.6 MAF, 76% of average. Average annual runoff for the upper Basin is 25.7 MAF.

As of Oct. 1, the total volume of water stored in the System was 50.4 MAF, which is 5.7 MAF below the base of the System’s flood control zone. System storage will continue to decline through the fall. The updated reservoir studies indicate that the System storage is expected to be 48.5 MAF at the start of the 2026 runoff season, approximately 7.6 MAF below the base of flood control.

Winter Release Rate

As per the criteria in the Master Manual, the winter release rate is determined based on the Sept. 1 System storage. Per the Sept. 1 System storage, winter releases from Gavins Point Dam will be at least 12,000 cfs. In anticipation of the low winter releases, a letter was sent to water users downstream of Gavins Point Dam making them aware of the planned releases and encouraging them to assess the risk to their facilities.

Draft Annual Operating Plan

On Sept. 30, the draft 2025-2026 Annual Operating Plan was posted online at: https://go.mil/mr-meetings. The comment period on the draft AOP will close on Nov. 26.

Fort Peck Dam

Average releases past month – 9,100 cfs
Current release rate – 4,000 cfs
Forecast average release rate –4,000 cfs
End-of-September reservoir level – 2222.5 feet (down 1.9 feet since August 31)
Forecast end-of-October reservoir level – 2222.1 feet
The forecast reservoir releases and elevations discussed above are not definitive. Additional precipitation, lack of precipitation or other circumstances could cause adjustments to the reservoir release rates.

Hydropower:

The six mainstem power plants generated 637 million kWh of electricity in September. Typical energy generation for September is 900 million kWh. The power plants are projected to generate 7.7 billion kWh of electricity this year, compared to the long-term average of 9.4 billion kWh.

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) is announcing and inviting the public to comment on a proposal that will resurface about 6 miles of US Highway 2 (US 2) northwest of Glasgow. The project begins about 9 miles west of Glasgow, near mile marker 531.8, and extends southeast, ending near Richardson Coulee.

Proposed work includes milling the existing surface, applying a new overlay, and finishing with a seal and cover (chip seal), upgraded pavement markings, signage, and rumble strips. The purpose of the project is to eliminate wheel line rutting and extend the life of the existing pavement to enhance safety and reduce maintenance costs.

Construction is tentatively planned for 2027 depending on completion of design and availability of funds. No new right-of-way or utility relocations will be needed.

Partnering with the community is an important part of properly planning for future projects. MDT welcomes the public to provide ideas and comments on the proposed project. Comments may be submitted online at mdt.mt.gov/contact/comment-form.aspx or in writing to Montana Department of Transportation, Glendive office, PO Box 890, Glendive, MT 59330-0890. Please note that comments are for project UPN 10672000.

The public is encouraged to contact Glendive District Preconstruction Engineer Jim Frank at 406-345-8214 or Project Design Engineer Steve Heidner at 406-345-8247 with questions or comments about the project.

For more information about active MDT projects around the state, please visit our website and MDT’s five-year Tentative Construction Plan.

MDT is a workforce of over 2,000 people across Montana determined to do all we can so that you arrive at your destination safely. Our mission is to build, operate, and maintain a safe and resilient transportation system. For more information, visit mdt.mt.gov.

Press Release from Valley County Sheriff Tom Boyer:

It has come to our attention that SCAM artists are calling local citizens of Valley County, telling them they have a warrant of arrest (for missing jury duty) and if you do not pay $$$ you will be taken to jail.
Do Not Fall For This SCAM - or any Scam such as this.

The Valley County Sheriff's Office will never call to tell you to pay money to clear a Warrant. We will never ask you to send money by way of WESTERN UNION. We will never ask you to send $$ via PAYPAL. PERIOD.

If you have a Warrant, Summons, Civil Papers that needs to be served to you, Valley County Sheriff Deputies will come to your house to serve you in person. If we cannot reach you at your home, after multiple attempts, we may try your place of work. Sometimes we will call you and ask for a convenient time to meet you or have you come to the office in person to receive your paperwork.
If you have a Warrant of Arrest we will simply come arrest you.

If you receive a scam phone call please notify dispatch on the non emergency number 406-228-4333 opt#2 and provide as much detail as possible about the interaction with the scammers. Providing phone numbers they called from (typically it will say No Caller ID), any identifiers like names, PayPal addresses, or Western Union account numbers can help us track down the perpetrators of this crime.
Lastly, if you believe a scammer is on the phone with you, it is okay to just hang up. Do not provide any personal information, account numbers, social security numbers, etc. You can call the Sheriff's Office to verify what you were told on the phone.

Please protect yourself and pass this on to your friends and family.

Sheriff Boyer

The Glasgow City Council will meet tonight at 5pm in the Council Chambers at the Glasgow Civic Center.

The Montana Weed Control Association will have the 2025 Fall Training at the Fort Peck Interpretive Center on Wednesday and Thursday, October 15th & 16th. Both sessions begin at 8 a.m. - Wednesday ends with a catered dinner at the Cottonwood Inn.

Applicator credits are available for those who attend. Contact Levi Capdeville, 406-263-9333, to register or for more information.

The Glasgow School enrollment is holding steady according to the latest enrollment report presented to the Glasgow School Board.

Kindergarten through 12th grade enrollment stands at 760 students. This is an increase from 759 students during the last enrollment count.

Current enrollment:

Kindergarten-43
1st grade- 57
2nd grade- 69
3rd grade- 53
4th grade- 69
5th grade- 71
6th grade- 54
7th grade- 54
8th grade- 66
9th grade- 62
10th grade- 50
11th grade- 53
12th grade- 59

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Thursday the federal government would make some announcement early next week to provide "substantial support" for farmers.

In an interview on CNBC, Bessent said it is unfortunate that Chinese leadership has decided to use soybean farmers "as a hostage or pawn" in the trade dispute.

Bessent said he spoke with Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins on Wednesday about some type of support for farmers.

"You should expect some news on Tuesday (Oct. 7) on substantial support for our farmers, especially soybean farmers. They have had President Trump's back and we have their back," Bessent said.

It's unclear what authority the Treasury Department would have to provide aid to farmers, or if Bessent was speaking about USDA using its funds from the Commodity Credit Corp. (CCC).

Donald Trump on Wednesday had posted on social media that "soybeans will be a major topic of discussion" next month when he meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump also has suggested taking tariff dollars to provide support to farmers.

Trump's post had an immediate positive effect on soybean prices, pushing up futures prices 20 cents on Wednesday and more than 5 cents a bushel on Thursday.

Rollins was on Fox Business News early Thursday pressing the White House narrative and Republican narrative that Democrats are to blame for the shutdown. Rollins said this will affect farmers and people who rely on nutrition programs.

"It's abandoning our farmers. It's sort of one thing after another with these Democrats and here we are again," Rollins said. She added, "Negotiations are fine. Our vice president said that yesterday, willing to always negotiate. But to hold our farmers hostage, our mothers and children hostage under WIC, all of these government programs are coming to a screeching halt."

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., raised concerns about Farm Service Agency (FSA) offices being closed during the shutdown.

"FSA employees are important to the farmers that we all represent. Again, that's an unnecessary consequence of the Schumer shutdown," Thune told Politico.

Republicans have laid a lot of the blame for the shutdown on Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., who drew criticism from Democrats last spring because he supported a funding bill that kept the government open.

Thune added, "I hope they can find ways to keep the FSA offices open and (I) certainly encourage that," he said. "But you know, the quickest way to end the conversation about that is to reopen the government."

Source: DTN

Rain will move into NE Montana Saturday morning and continue Saturday afternoon and evening before diminishing late Saturday night and Sunday morning. Here are the probabilities of a quarter of an inch or more.

Recently, Stan Ozark has been highlighting energy production in Montana. The information comes from the Energy Information Agency which is affiliated with the U.S. Department of Energy.

You can access the full report here: https://www.eia.gov/state/analysis.php?sid=MT

Montana, known as Big Sky State, is the fourth-largest state by total area. It is landlocked and bordered by Idaho to the west, Wyoming to the south, and North Dakota and South Dakota to the east. To the north, Montana has a 545-mile border with three Canadian provinces.

The state is rich in both fossil fuels and renewable resources and is a net supplier of energy to the rest of the nation. Three-tenths of the nation's estimated recoverable coal reserves are in Montana, and the northern and eastern areas of the state contain deposits of crude oil and natural gas.

The Continental Divide runs along the state's western mountains, making Montana the only state in the nation with rivers that drain into the Pacific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and Canada's Hudson Bay. The Missouri River, the longest river in the United States, starts in the Rocky Mountains in western Montana and flows eastward across the state. The river and its tributaries offer substantial hydroelectric energy resources.

Montana's western mountains, which range in elevation from 1,800 to 12,800 feet, create a climate with snowy winters and cool summers, with large variations in temperature, in the western one-third of the state. The central and eastern two-thirds of the state, which are part of the Northern Great Plains, experience warm summers and cold winters. The state's vast plains provide Montana with some of the best wind resources in the nation. Montana has the third-lowest population density among U.S. states, averaging about 7 people per square mile. Montana's population crossed the 1 million threshold in 2012 and continues to grow, but still ranks among the 10 states with the fewest residents. Montana's residents are clustered in and around a few cities, mainly in the valleys of the Missouri River and its tributaries. Much of the eastern third of the state has, on average, less than one resident per square mile. Montana ranks second only to Texas with almost 58 million acres of land in farms and ranches.

Montana's early economy was built around mining, ranching, wheat farming, and timber. After World War II, spurred by popular destinations such as Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks, tourism increased. In 1970, tourism surpassed mining to become the second-largest industry in the state after agriculture. Today, finance, insurance, real estate, rentals, and leasing are the largest contributors to the state's GDP, but energy resource extraction and mining continue to be significant parts of the state's economy. Mining, crude oil and natural gas production, petroleum refining, and agricultural industries are all energy-intensive. Those industries, as well as the amount of transportation fuels used to travel long distances within the state and the state's small population, help place Montana's per capita energy consumption near the top one-third of the states, even though its total energy consumption is among the 10 lowest states.

Montana’s residential sector per capita energy consumption ranks among the top five states.

The industrial sector leads Montana's end-use energy consumption, accounting for 30% of the state total, followed by the transportation sector at 29%. The residential sector makes up 23% of the state's energy use, and the commercial sector accounts for 18%. Montana's summer heat can exceed 100°F on the plains and winter can bring bitterly cold subzero temperatures.33 The state's temperature extremes and its small population contribute to Montana's residential sector being among the top five states with the highest per capita energy consumption.

Stability is the name of the game to start October with the national average for a gallon of regular the same as it was one week ago at $3.15. Tis the season for lower gas prices as demand drops and gas stations make the switch to winter-blend gasoline which is cheaper to produce. Crude oil supply remains robust as OPEC+ – a group of oil-producing countries – is likely to announce in the coming days another production increase in November. That surplus coupled with weaker demand is keeping pump prices down, even as some U.S. refineries are expected to go offline this month for seasonal maintenance.

Today’s National Average: $3.159

One Week Ago: $3.157

One Month Ago: $3.186

One Year Ago: $3.196

In Montana, the average price is $3.12 per gallon which is .14 cents cheaper than one year ago. In Valley County, the average price is $3.12 per gallon and the cheapest gasoline in Montana can be found in Dawson County where its $2.91 per gallon.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand decreased from 8.95 million b/d last week to 8.51 million. Total domestic gasoline supply increased from 216.6 million barrels to 220.7 million. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.3 million barrels per day.

Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI fell 59 cents to settle at $61.78 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories increased by 1.8 million barrels from the previous week. At 416.5 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 4% below the five-year average for this time of year.

State Stats

Gas

The nation’s top 10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.64), Washington ($4.53), Hawaii ($4.49), Oregon ($4.17), Nevada ($3.90), Alaska ($3.87), Arizona ($3.54), Idaho ($3.49), Utah ($3.39), and Illinois ($3.34).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Oklahoma ($2.65), Mississippi ($2.70), Louisiana ($2.74), Texas ($2.75), Arkansas ($2.75), Tennessee ($2.78), Alabama ($2.79), Missouri ($2.81), Wisconsin ($2.81), and South Carolina ($2.81).

A Wolf Point man accused of stabbing an individual on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation admitted to charges last week, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

The defendant, Lawrence George Fast Horse, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of domestic assault by habitual offender. Fast Horse faces 5 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing has been set for January 29, 2025. Fast Horse was detained pending further proceedings.

The government alleged in court documents that on August 2, 2024, Lawrence George Fast Horse stabbed Jane Doe in Poplar. Law enforcement officers responded to the scene and observed a stab wound on Jane Doe’s upper back. An officer searched Fast Horse at the scene and located a knife with brass knuckles attached to it in his right-side shorts pocket.

A witness provided a verbal and written statement to law enforcement. The witness advised that Fast Horse and Jane Doe were arguing, and Fast Horse pushed Jane Doe from behind. The witness saw Fast Horse attempt to conceal a blade behind his back. Fast Horse was arrested and subsequently transported to the Fort Peck Adult Correctional Facility. Jane Doe was taken to Poplar Community Hospital where she was treated for three stab wounds.

Fast Horse has been convicted of at least 5 prior domestic assaults between 2008 and 2020.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.

From Glasgow National Weather Service Office:

With September now a memory, let’s look back at how the precipitation totals have been compared to normal so far this year. A few locations (Circle, Jordan and Plentywood areas) have received close to normal, but most of the area received less than normal. Also, much of this precipitation came later than expected (mainly in July). This may have put additional stress on some of the crops grown in the area.

UPDATE

09/30/2025

The Fort Peck Tribes Law Enforcement would like to inform the community that Tribal Officers detained Ethan Louis Murphy without incident. The situation was handled swiftly and safely, and there were no injuries or issues during the process.

We thank the community for their cooperation and support, and we commend all officers involved for their professionalism and dedication to maintaining peace and safety throughout Fort Peck.

Thanks to all Agencies involved: Wolf Point Police Department, Roosevelt County Sheriffs Office, Wolf Point Fire Department, NEMH services, Border Patrol, and Montana Highway Patrol.

Montana homeowners have until Wednesday, Oct. 1, to apply for rebates of up to $400 on their 2024 property tax bills, claiming relief that is one component of a bipartisan push by lawmakers and Gov. Greg Gianforte to address rising residential tax bills.

According to the Montana Department of Revenue, the rebates are available for single-family homes, apartments, condos and mobile homes owned and occupied by Montana taxpayers for at least seven months in 2024.

Properties owned by limited liability corporations and some types of trusts are ineligible. The Legislature also did not provide for rebates for renters, who typically pay their landlords’ property taxes via their rent.

Taxpayers can apply for the rebate via the revenue department website at getmyrebate.mt.gov. The application requires the property owner’s name and Social Security number as well as the property’s Montana Cadastral system geocode. Taxpayers who paid less than $400 in 2024 property taxes will also need to provide the amount of taxes billed on tax notice sent to them by their county treasurer last fall.

The rebates were part of the second-home tax and homestead tax relief package passed by the Legislature and signed by Gianforte, a Republican, earlier this year. Other provisions of the package rework tax calculations to reduce bills for owner-occupied and long-term rental residences. Those provisions will take effect starting with the 2025 tax bills that will be mailed this fall.

The state previously provided larger rebates of up to $675 on homeowner taxes billed in 2023 and 2022.

More information about the rebates and application process is available on the revenue department website.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture is issuing a second Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) payment to eligible producers for the 2024 crop year. Of the authorized $10 billion in ECAP assistance, USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA) has already provided over $8 billion in payments to eligible producers to mitigate the impacts of increased input costs and falling commodity prices. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins made the announcement at the Ag Outlook Forum in Kansas City.

“Initial ECAP payments were factored by 85% to ensure that total program payments did not exceed $10 billion in available funding. Since additional funds remain, FSA is issuing a second payment,” said Deputy Under Secretary for Farm Production and Conservation Brooke Appleton. “As producers continue to face market volatility, these payments along with the entire suite of supplemental disaster assistance programs, will help producers navigate market uncertainty, pay down debt for the 2024 crop year, and secure financing for the next crop year.”

Payments will automatically be made to eligible producers with approved ECAP applications who received an initial payment. Any application approved after Sept. 25, 2025, will receive one lump sum payment. Authorized by the American Relief Act, 2025, these economic relief payments are based on planted and prevented planted crop acres for eligible commodities for the 2024 crop year.

ECAP Payments

FSA is issuing a second payment ECAP equal to 14% of the gross ECAP payment to eligible producers, making the final payment factor 99%.

ECAP assistance is calculated using a flat payment rate for the eligible commodity multiplied by the eligible reported acres. Payments are based on acreage and not production. For acres reported as prevented planted, ECAP assistance is calculated at 50%.

Additional USDA Supplemental Disaster Assistance

In addition to the over $8 billion in ECAP payments, USDA has issued more than $1 billion in Emergency Livestock Relief Program (ELRP) assistance to livestock producers impacted by drought and federally managed lands wildfires in 2023 and 2024 with an additional $1 billion in expected payments for livestock producers impacted by floods and non-federally managed land wildfires in 2023 and 2024 (ELRP 2023/2023 FW). Livestock producers have until Oct. 31, 2025, to apply for (ELRP 2023/2023 FW) assistance. Producers have also received over $5.4 billion through Stage 1 of the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program for indemnified crop losses in 2023 and 2024. SDRP Stage 2 assistance for uncovered, quality, and shallow losses will be announced soon.

Two Rivers is pleased to announce its participation in the 2025 Reimagining Rural Roadshow, hosted by Montana State University Extension’s Community Vitality Team. The event will be held October 1–2, 2025 in Glasgow, bringing together community leaders, volunteers, regional and state organizations, and professionals for two days of collaboration, learning, and action.

What Is the Reimagining Rural Roadshow?

The Roadshow is designed to fuel rural vitality by connecting people doing the work on the ground with the resources, ideas, and networks that can help them succeed. It features workshops, panels, local tours, lightning talks, round-table sessions, and networking opportunities. Topics include rural housing, historic preservation, tourism, workforce development, and partnerships that make projects more sustainable.

Event Details

Date & Time:
Wednesday, October 1, 2025 — Check-in at 11:30 AM; local tour from 1:00-5:00 PM; Welcome Reception at 5:00-6:00 PM.
Thursday, October 2, 2025 — Registration and light breakfast at 8:30 AM; programming until about 3:00 PM.

Location:
Cottonwood Inn (check-in and tour), Busted Knuckle Tap Room (welcome reception), Glasgow, Montana.

Registration:
$30 per person (payment by card or check). Includes breakfast and lunch on Thursday.

Two Rivers’ Role & Why It Matters

Two Rivers sees this Roadshow as a vital opportunity to support and amplify rural communities’ efforts to build capacity, leverage local assets, and address common challenges. By participating, Two Rivers aims to:

• Share expertise and help catalyze actionable partnerships.

• Learn from other communities’ best practices in areas like housing, tourism, historic preservation, and community development.

• Connect Glasgow rural communities to regional and statewide resources.

“Rural communities are uniquely positioned to lead innovation in place-making, collaboration, and resiliency,” said Shyanne Wallace, Executive Director of Two Rivers Economic Growth. “We’re excited for the chance to come together, exchange ideas, and leave with momentum and concrete tools.”

Agenda Highlights

• Potholes Happen, Good Partners Make the Ride Smoother – a panel on how collaborations can smooth the path for rural projects, featuring Glasgow’s successful wayfinding project.

• Lightning Talks covering hot topics: Rural Capacity; Recreation & Amenities (“There’s Nothing to Do in this Darn Town!”); Rural Housing; Small Towns with Old Buildings.

• Speed-Dating Resources – meet regional/state agencies and people who can assist with grants, planning, historic preservation, infrastructure, etc.

• Round-Table Topics include Tourism, Workforce, Brownfields, Montana Historic Preservation Grants, among others.

Sponsors & Support

This event is made possible through the generous sponsorship of: NeighborWorks Montana; High Plains Architects; KLJ Engineering; Montana Department of Commerce, and the Glasgow TBID.

From Fort Peck Tribal Law Enforcement:
Wanted:
Ethan Louis Murphy
10/28/1998
5’11
165
Green eyes
Brown hair
Multiple face and neck tattoos
Small build and light complexion
Consider armed and dangerous
Please contact 406 653-6240, 911 or local Law Enforcement.
Anyone hiding or harboring Murphy will be charged.
$1,000 dollar reward for information resulting in his apprehension.

Press Release from Wolf Point Police Department:

Law enforcement continues to actively search for Ethan Murphy, who remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous. The investigation has determined this is likely an isolated incident, with several leads currently being pursued. Residents are advised to exercise caution. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Wolf Point Police Department or 911 immediately.

Press Release
Date/Time: On 09/28/25 at approximately 2040 hours.
Incident Location: 415 Blaine Street, Albertsons Parking Lot
Incident Type: Shooting
Suspect: Ethan Murphy
Age: 26

Incident Summary: On September 28, 2025, at approximately 8:40 PM, an officer from the Wolf Point Police Department responded to a reported shooting. Upon arrival, Officer Bushman discovered one deceased individual and another person with a gunshot wound. Officer Bushman provided immediate medical assistance to the injured individual until emergency medical services arrived, and the victim was transported to Trinity Hospital in Wolf Point. The names of the victims are being withheld pending notification of their families.

The suspect, Ethan Murphy, remains at large. Wolf Point residents are urged to shelter in place for their safety and to call 911 immediately if they see Ethan Murphy. Additional responding agencies included the Fort Peck Tribes Patrol and Criminal Investigation Unit, Wolf Point Fire Department, and Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office.

Scottie Homecoming Coronation was held Thursday afternoon!

2025 Scottie Homecoming King and Queen

Wyatt Sugg and Tessa Miller!!

Congratulations!

Story from Northern Ag Network:

While recognizing that U.S. agriculture is “under threat,” Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins told agricultural leaders that farming’s future “could not be brighter.” In a wide-ranging speech, Rollins laid out an agenda for supporting crop producers while teasing plans to rebuild the U.S. cattle herd.

In an immediate announcement, Rollins said the final $2 billion under the Emergency Commodity Assistance Program (ECAP) “will be delivered within a week” to producers.

Rollins spoke Thursday at the Ag Outlook Forum in downtown Kansas City, Mo. In her remarks, Rollins placed a large share of blame for the current economic challenges on the Biden administration, noting the Biden administration didn’t negotiate any trade deals, which led the agricultural deficit to balloon. At the same time, expenses have increased dramatically since the last Trump administration.

“We know that agriculture in our country is under threat,” Rollins said.

She added later that trade disruptions have led to immediate consequences affecting a range of commodities. “But we also know that as the President is looking at the long-term fix, the complete realignment of the world economy around American agriculture and American goods, that there are bills that are due this month as we move into harvest. There are loans that have to be secured in the next eight to 12 weeks to plant for next year, that there are mouths to feed, and we have to make some difficult decisions right now. I do not have a silver bullet.”

The Wall Street Journal reported Thursday President Trump also suggested in an Oval Office event that an aid program for farmers could be coming soon.

“We’re going to take some of that tariff money that we made, we’re going to give it to our farmers who are — for a little while — going to be hurt,” Trump said while taking questions. “So we’re going to make sure that our farmers are in great shape, because we’re taking in a lot of money.”

In a press conference, Rollins touched on the impact of President Trump’s tariffs and efforts to realign global trade. Rollins acknowledged this has led to market disruption for some key commodities. “We knew there would be a time of uncertainty, and that’s the moment that we’re in right now,” she said.

Rollins told reporters an aid package would likely happen. However, such an announcement would likely not happen until after Congress and the Trump administration resolve whether there will be a government shutdown next week.

“We are not ready to announce a payment plan yet … but we are very close to understanding and knowing and announcing what we will do,” she said.

The secretary pointed out $8 billion has been paid to more than 500,000 producers under ECAP. Another $5 million has gone out to producers this year under the Supplemental Disaster Relief Program (SDRP) for natural-disaster losses in 2023 and 2024.

CHINA MARKET STILL AN OPEN QUESTION

Asked about what it will take to reach a trade deal with China, Rollins said she is in frequent talks with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick. Rollins noted there are “significant dynamics and nuances at play” in those talks, and she is committed to not second-guessing the president and his strategy.

“I’ve been next to him almost 10 years now, but what I will do is ensure that those that are negotiating and they do fully understand some of the consequences of especially to our soybean growers with zero purchase orders right now and a very robust historical crop,” she said. “But it goes to the most you know, the bigger question, the longer-term vision, and that is, we have to get these markets open. We have to stop relying on one country, perhaps as our largest buyer, and that’s a country that isn’t aligned with our values.”

Rollins acknowledged other commodities, such as sorghum, also rely heavily on China.

Rollins had highlighted to the Outlook crowd some of the other trade deals that the Trump administration had reached with Japan, the Philippines, South Korea, the United Kingdom and the European Union to boost agricultural sales outside of China. Combined with more funding for cooperative groups to promote agricultural trade, Rollins said she expects farmers will see better trade prospects a year from now.

“I know that right now, today, we have yet to see a marked difference; but by next year, we believe so sincerely in my meetings with these cooperators and the buyers overseas, the future could not be brighter,” she said.

PRESSURE ON INPUT PRICES

Rollins also said she is going to become more vocal with the Federal Reserve to press for more interest-rate reductions going forward.

“You may or may not have heard President Trump talk about this, forcing all to borrow money at elevated interest rates. I’m not sure anyone feels this pain more than our farmers and ranchers. The Fed needs to keep lowering rates so farmers and rural communities can finally see relief, and I’ll be talking about that as we move toward the next meeting of the Fed,” she said.

When it comes to fertilizer, fuel and other inputs, Rollins noted fertilizer prices have increased 37% over the last five years. The high input prices have led USDA and the Department of Justice to sign a memorandum of understanding earlier this year to protect farmers and ranchers from higher input prices and ensure competitive supply chains. Rollins said the Antitrust Division “will work hand-in-hand with USDA effective immediately to take a hard look and scrutinize competitive conditions in the agricultural marketplace,” Rollins said.

“Farmers have enough challenges to deal with; sky-high input prices should not be one of them,” Rollins said.

The secretary also pointed to efforts within the Trump administration to reduce costs for the H-2A migrant labor program. The Labor Department has streamlined the interview process for returning H-2A workers and USDA has eliminated the Farm Labor Survey, which was being used to set “artificially inflated” wages for H-2A workers, she said.

CATTLE INDUSTRY PLANS

Rollins also clarified plans announced last weekend to “rebuild the American cattle supply.” The statement was made in a news release about New World screwworm. It stated the Trump administration planned to “incentivize” ranchers to expand the national cattle herd, which is now the smallest in 75 years.

The secretary said incentives would not include payments to cattle producers. There were a lot of immediate questions within the cattle industry over whether USDA would look to pay producers to hold back heifers to breed. Rollins made it clear that it does not mean a payment program.

“There’s been a lot of speculation about this in the news in the last couple of days, we have no current plans to offer any payment to beef producers,” Rollins said. “We see how the government getting involved can completely distort the markets. And so currently, there will be no plan — no plan is even under consideration — to insert ourselves through payments into the beef cattle industry.”

Still, Rollins said Americans continue to eat more meat. The Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) plans in the Trump administration and new dietary guidelines are likely to champion protein products such as beef, pork and dairy, Rollins said.

“As we move forward, low inventory and high demand is not sustainable if we wish to be a country that can feed ourselves,” Rollins said. “Like so many of the problems that you face, our cattle inventory, unfortunately, cannot be built, rebuilt overnight.

USDA plans to announce “a new cattle business strategy” in mid-October — assuming a government shutdown doesn’t delay those plans. Rollins said the plans would include “opening up more working lands” to livestock and expanding risk management tools for livestock producers. The plan will also include Interior Secretary Doug Burgum, which implies some type of incentive to graze more cattle on federal land.

Rollins concluded, “Despite the ongoing storms, I am confident that our best days in American agriculture are truly ahead.”

A Wolf Point man who assaulted two individuals on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced this week to 48 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

Philip Ray Azure, 22, pleaded guilty in May 2025 to assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

The first incident occurred on March 16, 2023, when Azure went to John Doe’s residence in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation. Azure and John Doe were friends and were drinking alcohol together. Azure became intoxicated and was asked to leave for being too loud. A family member of Doe’s, who also lives in the home, started to walk Azure out. As he was leaving, Azure struck the family member. John Doe confronted Azure about hitting his family member. Azure pulled out a knife and stabbed Doe in the chest and then turned and walked away without saying anything.

Doe was rushed to the hospital for treatment of his serious injuries and later airlifted to Billings for surgery. After surgery to repair his lung, Doe spent a week in the hospital.

The second incident happened on January 27, 2024. Azure and several friends, including two co-defendants, and the victim, John Doe 2, were in a yard in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, playing a game of “slap-boxing.” The fighting escalated and eventually the group separated. Azure and his co-defendants returned home, and John Doe 2 arrived a short time later asking for his phone. Azure and his co-defendants exited the home and confronted Doe 2 in the driveway.

Several people witnessed the assault. One witness described seeing Azure and his co-defendants hitting John Doe 2 and saw someone using a bat and someone else using a hammer. A second witness saw Azure and his two co-defendants approach Doe 2 while he backed away and said all three “jumped” Doe 2. That witness saw Azure use a bat during the assault.

Doe 2 died at the scene before law enforcement arrived. According to an autopsy, he died from blunt and sharp force injuries to the head and chest, including a stab wound to the chest that perforated Doe 2’s sternum, heart, and esophagus.

Azure was arrested the day after the second assault. He initially claimed he wasn’t there when Doe 2 was assaulted. He later admitted he was involved but didn’t remember the details because he was intoxicated. He claimed Doe 2 had a big knife and he ultimately hit Doe 2 with a bat to stop him from using the knife. None of the other witnesses reported seeing Doe 2 with a knife.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI, Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice, and Wolf Point Police Department conducted the investigation.

A Poplar man who sexually abused a minor was sentenced this week to 54 months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

Jonathan Robert Walking Eagle, 23, pleaded guilty in May 2025 to two counts of sexual abuse of a minor.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.

The government alleged in court documents that on January 24 and 25, 2023, Walking Eagle, then 20 years old, sexually abused a 14-year-old girl on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, in both Poplar and Wolf Point.

The first incident occurred on January 24, 2023, in Poplar. The victim went with Walking Eagle to his mother’s house, and they unprotected sex. The second incident occurred the next day, in Wolf Point. A friend of Walking Eagle’s picked up Walking Eagle and the victim and drove them to Wolf Point, where the victim used marijuana and vaped. She became lightheaded and Walking Eagle removed her clothes and sexually assaulted her.

A SANE exam was completed on the victim and saliva samples were obtained from Walking Eagle. There was very strong support that his DNA was present in the samples obtained from the victim during her exam.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, Fort Peck Tribal Police, and Wolf Point Police Department, with assistance from the Williston Police Department.

Some good news for the oil and gas industry: North Dakota saw a slight increase in production in July.

The state saw roughly 2,150 more barrels a day compared to June, sitting at just under 36 million barrels for July.

Gas production was nearly 2% more than in June, extracting more than 3.5 billion cubic feet of gas per day.

At Tuesday’s director’s cut, a state official said the Bison Xpress Project is still set to be completed by next March.

Pipeline Authority Director Justin Kringstad responded to the question of what gas flow market shares look like between the Rockies and the Midwest.

“We’ve got about 5-10% of North Dakota’s natural gas production that stays locally within the North Dakota-Eastern Montana region. The rest of that moves out of state,” said Kringstad.

Kringstad said when the Bison Xpress project kicks off, there will be higher numbers of Bakken gas moving into the Rockies.

The Glasgow Scottie Homecoming Parade is set for Friday afternoon. Here is the parade lineup. The Scottie canon will be part of the parade and it sounds like the canon will be set off to start the parade!

Everyone is invited to Unleashing the Scotties at 6:40 p.m. on Friday before the football game. Please show up a few minutes beforehand to line up and cheer on the Scotties as they walk from the gym entrance down to the field. Lineups will start at 6:30 p.m.

Story credit to Montana Free Press:

Barry Beach, the man who spent 30 years in prison for a murder he says he didn’t commit, will soon finish the commuted probationary sentence issued by a former Montana governor who once argued for his lifetime imprisonment.

Speaking on Sept. 18 at a three-day conference presented by Montana Free Press, Beach said his 10-year probationary sentence, issued by former Democratic Gov. Steve Bullock in 2015, was ending soon.

“The notification came out this morning on the Victim Information Network that Barry Beach is about to be released from probation,” he told an audience at Montana State University. The announcement drew applause. VINE, as the network is known, indicates that Beach’s probation ends Nov. 17.

Beach, who turns 63 this year, was sentenced in 1984 to 100 years in prison for the 1979 murder of Kimberly Nees. It was a crime that Beach confessed to years later during a seven-hour interrogation in Louisiana. His stepmother, fearing that her daughter was going to run away with Beach in 1983, told the Ouachita sheriff’s department that Beach was a Montana murder suspect. After four days in jail and a seven-hour interrogation, Beach made his confession but later recanted.

After police brought him back to Montana, Beach was tried in Roosevelt County. The special prosecutor in the 1984 trial was Marc Racicot, who was later twice elected as Montana’s Republican governor in the 1990s. Racicot still maintains that Beach is guilty, and argued in 2014 against granting Beach clemency.

Several details about the murder didn’t point to Beach. A bloody handprint on the side of the victim’s vehicle wasn’t a match for Nees or Beach. The victim had been dragged 100 yards to the Poplar River, but footprints along the path weren’t a match for Beach.

“There are no forensic matches in any way, any shape, any form,” Beach said. “But my beloved Marc Racicot has stated several times that I am not credible because my story has changed. Let’s bring that focus into the state of Montana and their focus of the bloody palm print that was found on the side of the vehicle where the assailant drug the victim out of the pickup. What the forensic science proves is when they drug the victim out of the pickup, they put their palm on the side of the cab to pull.

“And there’s a bloody palm print the state of Montana and Marc Racicot has changed their theory on that palm print four different times. Now, 20, 40, some years later, the belief is that palm print is absolutely of no value, when the FBI, the Roosevelt County sheriff and every other law enforcement in the state for 15 years used that palm print to eliminate suspects, except for me, by the way. That’s my point about forensic science. We need to work on our court system and get back to the fundamentals of what we believe our court system is supposed to do.”

Centurion Ministries, a nonprofit organization that takes up cases for what it says are the wrongly convicted, attracted media attention to Beach’s case in 2008. That year, the investigative NBC news program “Dateline” featured the Barry Beach story and raised questions about whether Beach was the killer, based primarily on evidence presented by Centurion, which at the time had succeeded in freeing 52 people.

He was never exonerated, but eventually Beach inspired a change to Montana law granting the governor sole authority on commutations. The change limited the power of the state parole board, which had blocked a previous attempt by Beach seeking parole.

Bullock, who as attorney general argued against Beach’s release from prison, commuted Beach’s sentence in 2015 to credit for time served, plus 10 years probation.Speaking on Sept. 18, Beach credited several Democrats for persuading Bullock to make the commutation.

“I’m extremely grateful to them because they’re the ones who rallied the press and convinced Gov. Bullock to utilize his power,” Beach said.

Beach appeared at Montana Free Press Fest as a session-ending keynote speaker with long-time friend Marcia Price. Price was part of a group of volunteers who worked for Beach’s release a decade ago, then helped him transition to life on the outside.

Centurion in 2008 attempted to get Beach another trial based on new evidence. The request was denied in a lower court, but the Montana Supreme Court in 2009 ordered that the request for a new trial be reconsidered. In 2011, a different district court judge reviewed the new evidence and threw out Beach’s original conviction. That December, Beach was released from custody, but the state Supreme Court in 2013 overturned his release, ordering him back to prison, after 18 months on the outside, to serve out his life sentence.

One supporter offered Beach $10,000 and a car to drive into Canada rather than return to prison. But Beach said he had to surrender to the state.

“I had made a promise to Jim McCloskey of Centurion Ministries that no matter what the outcome was, he had my word I would turn myself in if I had to,” Beach said. “It’s never been so hard in my life to keep a promise.”

Price was with Beach at a Billings bank when they learned that he had to turn himself in immediately. He had been living as a free man, with a car, bank account and steady employment as a handyman. They went to the sheriff’s office so Beach could surrender.

“They were standing there waiting for us, and he started taking off his belt and his eyeglasses, and gave me the car keys,” Price told the audience. “And then he came back and he said, ‘No, I’m not gonna let him do that to me.’ And he put his belt back on and his glasses, and he said, they’ll take him away from me, but I don’t want to look like that when I walk in.’”

It was May 2013 when Beach turned himself in. He remained in prison serving the same 100-year sentence he received in 1984, until November 2015 when Bullock granted Beach clemency.

Beach finished his talk by recommending changes to the corrections system. He said that no prison stay should be shorter than five years.

“If you’re going to spend the taxpayers’ dollars to send somebody to prison, make sure they’re going to stay there for at least five years. If they are not there between five to 10 years, day for day, prison doesn’t hit them,” Beach said. “These people that you’re sending into prison, and they’re doing a year and a half, two years, three years, and getting out on parole and coming back and doing six months and getting out on parole, you’re wasting taxpayers’ money.”

Prisoners need to be incarcerated long enough to reflect on what they’ve lost, Beach said. At five years, a prisoner’s contact with the outside world fade away, he told the audience.

“I do not believe we should ever, ever, ever keep anybody in prison for more than 25 years,” Beach added. “You are wasting taxpayers’ dollars if you’re fighting to keep somebody beyond 25 years. That means that the prison system has not reformed them. And if you can’t reform them within 25 years, you have failed, and you don’t need my money to try again for the next 20 years.”

Montana Department of Transportation is in the planning stage of a major highway rehabilitation in Valley County. Highway #24 from Fort Peck to Glasgow is set to be totally redone at a cost of $26 million. The project is estimated to start construction in 2026.

FORT PECK - NORTHWEST

This Rehabilitation project (8716000) is in design and construction is anticipated in Calendar Year 2026. The estimated cost for construction is $26,000,000.

PROJECT LOCATION:

Glendive District
Valley County
MDT Corridor Route C000042N between Reference Markers 59.550 and 73.300.

SIGNED ROUTE/STREET NAME: MONTANA 24, MONTANA 42

PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Located along MT Highway 24 northwest of Fort Peck enroute to Glasgow and is 13.8 miles in length. The project includes pulverization of the existing surface followed by a new overlay, widening of the roadway to include 2-foot shoulders, chip seal, rumble strips, upgraded signing and pavement markings. Additionally, guardrail end sections will be updated, and any incorrectly installed rail will be repaired or reset.

The Internal Revenue Service issued guidance on Monday that provides tax relief for farmers and ranchers in applicable states and regions who sold or exchanged livestock because of drought conditions.

Under the guidance, farmers and ranchers may take more time to replace their livestock and defer tax on any gains from the forced sales or exchanges.

Counties in our area that qualify include: Blaine, Cascade, Chouteau, Hill, Liberty, Phillps and Valley.

The tax relief generally applies to capital gains realized by eligible farmers and ranchers from sales or exchanges of livestock held for draft, dairy or breeding purposes. Sales of other livestock – such as those raised for slaughter or held for sporting purposes – and sales of poultry do not qualify.

Eligible farmers and ranchers must show that drought prompted the sales or exchanges, and that the area received a federal drought designation. Generally, livestock must be replaced within a four-year period, instead of the usual two-year period.

ATTENTION:
GLASGOW HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES
ATTENDING TRADE SCHOOL OR COLLEGE EITHER ON CAMPUS OR ONLINE.
YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR FINANCIAL AID FROM
THE GLASGOW HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATIONAL TRUST.

Log on to www.ghsedutrust.org NOW for the application and ALL the requirements, so that you can complete your application by the October 15, 2025, deadline.

REMINDER:
If you completed the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), your GHS Educational Trust application must include a signed and dated copy of your acceptance letter indicating what aid you have accepted.

If you have any questions, contact daniander@nemont.net. (406) 230-0153.

Here is a look at ALL events for Homecoming Week!

Homecoming Week Theme -- “Eliminate the Eagles”

Monday Sept. 22nd -- (EMO / GOTH at GHS & GMS, Mismatch Monday at Irle)
Tuesday Sept. 23rd -- (Anywhere But School at GHS & GMS, Tacky Tourist Tuesday at Irle)
Tuesday Sept. 23rd -- Kindergarten thru 5th Grade assembly at Bundy Park w/ Scottie Pep Band 1:15-1:30 PM

Wednesday Sept. 24th -- (Historical Figures at GHS & GMS, Workout Wednesday at Irle)
Wednesday Sept. 24th -- Scottie Pep Band Marches around GMS 1:15-1:30 PM
Wednesday Sept. 24th -- Car Parade Line-up 6:45 PM (El Cor Del)
Wednesday Sept. 24th -- Bonfire 7:00 PM (GHS)
Wednesday Sept. 24th -- “Mad about Plaid” Homecoming Dance after Bonfire (ALL GHS Students and Co-Op Athletes) 8:00- 10:00 PM

Thursday Sept. 25th -- (Red and White Day at GHS, GMS, and Irle)
Thursday Sept. 25th -- Grades 3rd, 4th and 5th assembly at 9:00 AM in the Irle cafeteria w/ GHS Cheer
Thursday Sept. 25th -- Grades K, 1st, and 2nd assembly at 9:30 AM in the Irle cafeteria w/GHS Cheer
Thursday Sept. 25th -- After the little guys assembly Cheerleaders and Mascot go to recess with K&1 at 9:55-10:10 AM and recess with 2nd & 3rd at 10:15-10:30 AM.
Thursday Sept. 25th -- GHS Cheer, Mascot, and ALL Fall Senior Athletes @ GMS Pep Assembly-- EVERYONE WEARS RED!! 10:45 AM
Thursday Sept. 25th -- GHS Cheer at Head Start Preschool 11:30 AM - 12:09 PM
Thursday Sept. 25th -- GHS Coronation @ GHS Auditorium 3:20 PM (GHS Choir's perform Scotland the Brave)
Thursday Sept. 25th -- HS/MS Cross Country at Frazer Invitational (HS bus leaves at 4:00 PM)

Friday Sept. 26th -- (Community Red and White / Scottie Spirit Day)-
Friday Sept. 26th -- Homecoming Parade 2:30 PM (Line-up at 2 PM in front of Civic Center)
Friday Sept. 26th -- Scottie Booster Club Community Tailgate Party 6:00 PM (Food provided by Independence Bank)
Friday Sept. 26th -- “Unleash the Scotties” 6:30 PM all fans line-up from GHS Room 1 Doors to Scottie Field. Scottie Teams will walk the tunnel at 6:40 PM.
Friday Sept. 26th -- HS FB vs. Fairfield 7:00 PM (GHS Swing Choir performs National Anthem). (Halftime featuring Saskatoon Police Pipe Band, Scottie Pep Band, and Hi-Line Cloggers.)

Saturday Sept. 27th -- JV FB vs. Fairfield 9:00 AM
Saturday Sept. 27th -- MS VB @ Scobey
Saturday Sept. 27th -- MS FB @ Malta
Saturday Sept. 27th -- HS VB vs. Poplar 1:00 PM (JV/V) (Saskatoon Police Pipe Band will play at 5:00 PM) -- Farmers and Animals Theme

The federal government charged a Poplar man on three counts of second-degree murder, the U.S. Attorney’s Office announced Thursday.

Michael Joseph Ackerman, 73, also known as Michael Joseph Littlebull, told deputies that preceding the murders he and three victims were in his Poplar home all using methamphetamine on Sept. 11, according to charging documents.

Michael Joseph Ackerman was booked in Yellowstone County Detention Facility Sept. 14. He is still detained there currently.

Ackerman believed that they were “setting him up,” court documents said. Ackerman stated he was in the bedroom with one of the victims who had a pistol in her hand. Michael then picked up a 9 mm Smith & Wesson and shot her twice in the head.

Ackerman then went to another room in the household after hearing two other people who were sleeping. He allegedly shot them both. Victims included Ackerman’s wife Earlene Lucy Jones Ackerman, 65, Matthew Earl Black Thunder, 41 and Winona “Nona Sioux” Longee, 35.

In the morning of Sept. 14, Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call for service in Billings. The caller told police that his adoptive father killed the victims in the murders.

Deputies then talked to Ackerman inside the Billings residence, and he allegedly waived his rights and agreed to speak with them, according to court documents.

After detailing the murders, he told police they would find the victims inside his residence in Poplar. The Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office then connected with Fort Peck Tribal Police, who after no response at the home, obtained a search warrant for the house.

Officers then located the three dead bodies mentioned by Ackerman, all with apparent gunshot wounds. Four bullet casings were found near the bodies, according to court documents.

Second-degree murder describes an unlawful killing that is typically done with malicious intent, but is not premeditated. A charge carries maximum penalties of life in prison and a $250,000 fine.

Following the murders, Fort Peck Tribal Chairman Justin Gray Hawk, Sr. wrote a letter to Fort Peck residents Monday, promising efforts to make the community feel safe again as the reservation grieves.

A Harlem man who sexually abused a minor on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation admitted to charges this week, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

The defendant, Ivan Daniel Raining Bird, 35, pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse of a minor. Raining Bird faces a term of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for January 29, 2025. Raining Bird was detained pending further proceedings.

The government alleged in court documents that John Doe was about 13 years old when he received a Facebook Message from a user who went by “Ivey” and appeared to be a woman. “Ivey” turned out to be the defendant, Ivan Raining Bird, who was in his late twenties at the time. Doe and Raining Bird continued to message, and Raining Bird eventually invited Doe over to his house.

When Doe arrived at Raining Bird’s house, he realized Raining Bird was a man dressed as a woman. Doe and Raining Bird shared substances and Raining Bird performed oral sex on Doe. For several months, Raining Bird committed similar assaults on Doe.

The FBI investigated Doe’s disclosure of the abuse and interviewed Raining Bird. Raining Bird admitted sharing drugs with teenagers in the past and specifically admitted he knew John Doe was a minor and sexually assaulted him on multiple occasions.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement Services conducted the investigation.

Governor Greg Gianforte today announced Montana’s unemployment rate was at 2.9% in August, marking the eleventh straight month under 3% and over four consecutive years of unemployment at or below 3.4%, a new record.

“In Montana, we’re committed to working across the public and private sector to promote career pathways for all Montanans to reach their full, outstanding potential,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Over the next few weeks, the Department of Labor and Industry is hitting the road to highlight this new initiative, 406 JOBS, to inform Montanans of the resources available to enter or re-enter the workforce.”

Montana’s unemployment rate was 1.4% lower than the national unemployment rate, which was 4.3% in August. Montana remained in the top five states in the nation with the lowest unemployment rates.

The unemployment rate for Valley County was 2.5% compared to the previous year of 2.4%.

Total employment (which includes payroll, agricultural, and self-employed workers) increased slightly in August. Payroll jobs remained unchanged over the month, following the addition of 1,200 jobs in July. The transportation, accommodation, and food service industries have added the most jobs over the last three months, offsetting declines in education, manufacturing, and federal government employment.

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) increased 0.4% on a seasonally adjusted basis in August. The index for shelter rose 0.4% in August, the primary factor for the monthly all items increase. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index rose 2.9% with core inflation rising 3.1%. The index for all items minus food and energy, or core inflation, rose 0.3% in August.

###Update as of September 18th, 2025, 1406 hours, Marcy Iron Bear has been located and is safe.##

Authorities on the Fort Peck Reservation in Montana are asking for the public’s help in locating a missing person.

According to a release on the tribe’s law enforcement Facebook page, 36-year-old Marcy Ironbear has been missing since Sept. 8 from Fort Peck.

Ironbear is 5’4”, 200 lbs., with brown hair and brown eyes.

She may also go by the names Green or Raven.

Anyone with information on Ironbear’s whereabouts should contact Fort Peck Police at (406) 768-5565 or the Montana Missing Persons Clearinghouse at (406) 444-2800.

Congratulations to the 2025 Glasgow High School Homecoming Court--

King Candidates: Grady Nielsen, Wyatt Sugg, and Andrew Linder

Queen Candidates: Kimber Dulaney (Not Pictured), Tessa Miller, and Joely Chappell

The 2025 Scottie Homecoming King and Queen will be crowned next Thursday at Scottie Coronation in the GHS Auditorium.

Glasgow Kiwanis Club presents $10,000 check for Cal Ripken Baseball LED Light upgrade to Eric Feit and SaraAnn Rasmussen from a Kiwanis Foundation of Montana grant.

Glasgow Kiwanis President Brenner Flaten and Secretary Charles Wilson present the check at a recent meeting.

The Schedule has been released for the annual Glasgow Pub Crawl featuring the Saskatoon Police Pipe and Drums. The event is set for Saturday, September 27th in Glasgow.

Release from the Glasgow School District:

Tuesday was a BIG day for Glasgow Schools! This summer AgWest Farm Credit Glasgow branch purchased Myli Swindler’s 4H steer during the Northeast Montana Fair.

They donated the FULL beef back through the Producer Partnership program!! This program pays for processing and delivery to any school or local non-profit.

We are overwhelmed by the generosity and are so excited that our local students get to enjoy locally raised beef for school lunch.

We are thrilled for the future of this program and the opportunity for interested parties to make an impact in our schools and the nutritional program.

News Story:

A Montana non-profit organization is helping rural communities access fresh meat by delivering processed products directly to schools and organizations free of charge.

The Producer Partnership recently made stops in Malta, Saco, Glasgow, and other rural areas, delivering 2,895 pounds of meat at no cost to the communities.

The organization says it is the first and only federally-inspected nonprofit-operated meat processing facility in the United States.

Producer Partnership works with ranchers who provide animals, including goats, sheep, cattle and bison, while the non-profit handles the processing.

"I think it's huge to be able to help these smaller communities, especially in these rural communities where we have, you know, so many producers that are there," said Producer Partnership president and founder Matt Pierson.

"But, man, it's hard to find processing. It's hard to find the time to take them there, to pick them up, to pay for it. And for us, it's really nice to be able to sort of take care of all of those aspects from start to finish."

Since starting in 2020, The Producer Partnership has donated more than 200,000 pounds of Montana-raised protein to charities and nonprofits across the state.

Montana livestock producers can donate their animals to The Producer Partnership to be processed free of charge and then donated to schools, food banks, or other nonprofit organizations, keeping the meat in Montana.

The Montana Department of Revenue is reporting that marijuana sales totaled $166,224 for the month of August. This is an increase from $159,251 in July for Valley County.

Valley County local governments receive 3% of gross proceeds from marijuana sales.

In August, Roosevelt County had $625,068 in sales while Sheridan County had $90,865.

Montana had sales of over $30 million for the month of August and since January of 2022 sales have totaled $1.163 billion in the state.

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services has updated West Nile Virus information for the State of Montana.

The map shows West Nile Virus information as of September 12th.

Thousands of Montana taxpayers have already claimed and received a property tax rebate, but the Montana Department of Revenue reminded people Monday to file their applications if they haven’t done so.

The deadline to file for the rebate is Oct. 1.

The Montana Department of Revenue has received more than 197,000 rebate applications, and last week, the department said it had approved 97% of the applications filed.

The Montana property tax rebate provides qualifying Montanans a rebate of up to $400 on a primary residence for tax year 2024. The qualifications to claim the rebate are available at getmyrebate.mt.gov.

A news release from the Department of Revenue said the fastest way for taxpayers to claim the rebate is online at getmyrebate.mt.gov. Mailing a paper application form will add processing time.

Rebates are being issued via paper check. Most electronically filed rebates are issued within 30 days of filing, while paper-filed rebates may take up to 60 days to process, according to the Department of Revenue.

“Getting the rebates to Montana taxpayers has been one of our highest priorities, so we’re grateful a majority of taxpayers have already claimed their rebates,” Montana Department of Revenue Director Brendan Beatty said in a statement. “However, the October 1 deadline is fast approaching, and we don’t want taxpayers to miss this opportunity.”

The Producer Partnership has completed processing, free of charge, livestock purchased and donated by local businesses during the Valley County 4h/FFA Livestock Sale and private donations livestock sale, providing Valley County schools and nonprofit organizations with high-quality, locally raised protein at no cost.

The processed protein will be delivered to Malta School District at 11:00 am – 1 High School Lane, S. 9th Street W. 406-654-2002

Valley Event Center at 1:00 pm: 54141 US Highway 2, Glasgow, MT

Recipient organizations include:
• Glasgow School District
• Opheim School District
• Nashua School District
• Malta School District
• Hinsdale School District
• Saco School District
• Valley Community Food Bank

“We are proud to partner with the Valley County 4-H/FFA Livestock Sale and local donors to provide thousands of meals for area schools and the Valley Community Food Bank,” said Matt Pierson, Founder and President of The Producer Partnership. “Thanks to the generosity of the community and our ability to process animals free of charge at our USDA-inspected facility in Livingston, we will deliver 2,895 pounds of high-quality, locally raised protein. This effort shows the power of donors coming together to directly support children and families — and we’re eager to expand this impact in the years ahead.”

Brenner Flaten, Superintendent of Schools – Glasgow School District “This donation is truly significant for our school district,” said Brenner Flaten, Superintendent of Schools for the Glasgow School District. “Any time a school district can partner with community donors to benefit students, it’s a win. This contribution not only provides important financial relief to our school food service department but also ensures that Montana kids are receiving nutritious, locally grown and raised protein. It’s an investment in both our students’ well-being and our community.”

Founded in 2020 as a way for neighbors to help one another during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Producer Partnership is the first and only USDA federally inspected nonprofit-owned and operated meat processing facility in the United States.

Through efforts like these, Producer Partnership connects Montana ranchers, businesses, and nonprofits to reduce hunger while strengthening community ties.

Story credit to Northern Plains Independent:

On Sunday, Sept. 14, at approximately 4 a.m., the Fort Peck Tribal police officers received information from the Yellowstone County Sheriff’s Office that a male had confessed to shooting and killing his wife, his stepson and the stepson’s girlfriend at a residence in Poplar.

The male said that all three victims were still inside the house. The male was identified as 73-year-old Michael Littlebull, an enrolled member of the Fort Peck Tribes.
Fort Peck Tribal police officers responded to a residence in Poplar to investigate the information. After receiving no response at the residence, tribal police officers received and executed a search warrant to enter the residence. Once inside the residence, tribal police officers located 65-year-old Earlene Jones, 41-year-old Matthew Black Thunder and 35-year-old Winona Longee deceased inside the residence. All three victims appeared to have been shot at least one time at close range with a small caliber bullet. All three victims will undergo an autopsy.
Littlebull remains in custody.

The case is still under investigation by the Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. No further information can be released at this time.

Governor Greg Gianforte, along with members of Montana’s federal delegation, recently sent a letter to Department of Interior Secretary Doug Burgum detailing the state’s longstanding efforts to petition the federal government to follow the laws governing grazing permits.

Nationally, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) manages livestock grazing on 155 million acres of public lands. The terms and conditions for grazing on BLM-managed lands are set forth in the permits and leases that are issued to ranchers.

Since 2017, American Prairie Reserve (APR) has sought BLM’s approval to change livestock grazing permits in Montana into permits to graze their non-production, conservation bison herd. Under the Biden Administration, BLM issued a decision to grant the requested permits on a number of BLM grazing allotments in eastern Montana.

In 2022, the State of Montana, grazing districts, and livestock industry groups all appealed BLM’s decision, noting that the land would no longer be able to be used for production agriculture if the permits are approved. In the letter, the governor and Montana’s federal delegation highlighted they are awaiting the Department of Interior’s decision on those appeals and underscore their support for Montana’s farmers and ranchers who make up the state’s number one industry.

“APR is dedicated to ‘re-wilded,’ free-roaming bison and converting Montana’s historic farms and ranches into the largest wildlife refuge in the continental United States. For us, a decision in favor of APR will re-shape the entire landscape of our state,” the officials wrote. “The effect of this change would remove immense swaths of land from production agriculture with far reaching implications and undermine the proud heritage of these small, agriculture-focused communities.”

They continue, “It also threatens the economic vitality of our most important industry, decreasing agricultural production revenue and directly impacting industries downstream that shape our overall economy. Once the damage is done, and these generational farms and ranches are gone, they cannot be brought back.”

The governor was joined by Senator Steve Daines, R-Montana, Senator Tim Sheehy, R-Montana, Congressman Ryan Zinke, and Congressman Troy Downing in signing the letter.

On September 24th, the Montana Department of Agriculture is hosting a pesticide disposal event in Glasgow. Carli Davis the program coordinator for the waste pesticide disposal program told New Media Broadcasters why the Montana Department of Agriculture hosts these events.

“So, the Department of Agriculture hosts these events to try to keep pesticides out of our Montana Landfills and give the industry and option, an easier way to get rid of them in a more environmentally friendly way.”

You must pre-register for this pesticide disposal event on September 24, you can register online at the Montana Department of Agriculture Website or by calling Carli Davis at 1-406-444-3144

The Glasgow City Council will meet in regular session tonight at 5pm in the Council Chambers of the Glasgow Civic Center.

The council will hold a public hearing on assessments for city lights, streets and garbage and an additional public hearing on the city's mill levy, permissive medical levy and fiscal year 202-2025 budget.

The Glasgow Chamber of Commerce has confirmed the Saskatoon Police Pipe for Scottie Homecoming weekend!

There were questions whether the pipe band would be able to make the weekend work but at least 10 and possibly more will make it to Montana.

The schedule will look differently but the pipe band will be in Glasgow the weekend of September 26-27.

KLTZ/Mix-93 has had multiple inquiries from community members regarding a personnel change at Valley View Home in Glasgow. It has been reported that Emilee Poole, RN, was terminated from her position effective Monday, September 8th. We were able to confirm with Poole that she has been terminated from the facility. Poole had been employed as the Director of Nursing for Valley View Home, a top administrative position in the organization.

Additionally, members of the community have indicated a plan to attend the next meeting held by Valley View Home’s Board of Directors. KLTZ/Mix-93 reached out to Wes Thompson, Administrator, and asked if there was an upcoming board meeting scheduled and if the public would be invited to attend. Thompson indicated, “We have monthly board meetings of course but we do not ever hold them in public due to possible HIPAA violations when discussing our residents and so forth.”
Thompson also provided KLTZ/Mix-93 with the following statement:

Valley View Home Addresses Community Concerns Regarding Staffing Change
Glasgow, Montana — Valley View Home is aware of the concerns being expressed within the community following a recent leadership staffing change.
While specific personnel matters are confidential and cannot be discussed publicly, we want to reassure our residents, families, staff, and the greater community that this decision was made following a thorough internal review and in accordance with established policies and procedures.

We fully understand that in a close-knit community such as ours, leadership transitions can prompt concern and discussion. We are deeply grateful for the contributions of former staff and recognize the strong relationships that exist between our team and the community we serve.

Valley View Home remains firmly committed to the safety, dignity, and well-being of every resident in our care. We also deeply value the dedication of our staff and the continued trust placed in us by families and neighbors throughout the region.
As we move forward, we remain focused on stability, transparency, and delivering the highest quality of care to those who call Valley View Home their home.

For several weeks this summer, University of Montana student Iris McKean found herself sitting in the dark all night in an urban park an hour’s train ride south of Tokyo. Sporting a headlamp, she covered herself head to toe in protective clothing – including a mesh head net – to ward off bugs and huntsman spiders the size of a human palm.

She was part of a UM team studying rhinoceros beetles, a beloved insect icon in Japan. The researchers kept their lamps and video cameras trained on sappy parts of oak trees frequented by the thumb-sized beetles. They beheld the drama of big-horned males battling for the right to court females, who may or may not decide to mate with them.

McKean handled nearly every rhino beetle they studied, weighing and marking them so they could identify the specific dramatic characters featured in their research.

“They don’t bite, and they are such cool, cute creatures,” she said. “But their gripping feet are like little razor blades, and they can make tiny incisions and stick there. So I was careful to wear gloves.”

Science in a city offered peculiar challenges. Sometimes park security arrived to investigate what the strange Montanans were doing under a tree at 3 a.m. Other times little kids visiting the park with their families would snag one of their research subjects and scamper off. In Japan, rhinoceros beetles are prized as pets and often end up in terrariums.

“What could we say?” she said. “We were the strangers, and it was a public park.”

All of this reinforced to McKean that she was a long way from Glasgow, her northeastern Montana hometown. And also that UM had provided her an incredible, life-changing learning experience.

McKean is fascinated by the idea of the butterfly effect – that something as small as the flap of butterfly wings can echo through systems and eventually influence the path of a tornado. She said lots of lesser decisions on her part led to her educational adventure in Japan.

The first was her decision to attend UM. She grew up hunting and fishing – her father, Andrew, is editor of Outdoor Life Magazine – and she describes herself as “outdoorsy” and “the most curious person ever.” She found herself wanting to know more about the Montana animals and ecosystem she grew up with, so she was attracted to UM’s top-ranked Wildlife Biology program. After positive interactions with faculty members like Chad Bishop and Angela Luis, she decided to attend UM in 2022 to study wildlife biology and pre-veterinary studies.

McKean also followed in the footsteps of her older brother, Ellis McKean, who ran cross-country at UM. She too joined UM as a student-athlete, becoming a top contributor for the Grizzly women’s cross-country team.

As a sophomore, McKean took a genetics and evolution class from Doug Emlen, a UM scientist who studies animal weaponry and one of the few Montanans ever elected to the National Academy of Sciences. McKean said she “really connected with the material” and that it left her “thirsty for more.”

“After that I started going to Doug’s office hours like once a week just so I could pick his brain about all the different questions I had,” she said. “He’s a wealth of knowledge in every realm.”

By her junior year, McKean became curious about the research process such as grant writing, data collection and publishing results. So sitting at her kitchen table in Glasgow, she decided to email Emlen and ask whether he knew of any openings for an undergraduate research assistant.

“Students like Iris are a joy to work with,” Emlen said, “so I jumped at the chance to get her involved with our research.”

That little flap of a butterfly’s wing earned McKean a gig with one of Emlen’s Ph.D. students, Sophie Fitzgerald, who studies rhinoceros beetles. During fall semester 2024, McKean found herself working several hours a week in Fitzgerald’s lab, dissecting frozen female beetles, counting their eggs and studying their ability to produce offspring.

It was Fitzgerald who invited McKean along to assist with two other UM students and led the team on their journey to Japan to study rhino beetles in their natural habitat.

“Sophia has just been an incredible asset for me,” McKean said. “She’s been the most friendly and supportive person I’ve ever met, and she was so accepting of plugging me into the lab so I could help out in any capacity.”

Fitzgerald’s Japan research delved into sexual selection among rhinoceros beetles, especially why females choose to mate with certain males. McKean said past research generally focused on the males, who battle for the females by dueling with their big horns and flipping rivals off the trees. Usually the beetle with the bigger weapon wins, but this isn’t always the case.

“It seems horn size matters, but maybe not as much as we previously thought,” McKean said. “The big horn indicates fitness and health to the female, but I keep thinking about these smaller males with shorter horns, and they get flipped off and keep coming back again and again, and sometimes the female just gives in. So resilience is a big factor, too. We didn’t find that females were always choosing the male with the biggest horn.”

McKean said the male beetles make for big ungainly fliers, carrying around those massive horns.

She said the research team had cameras set up to record the beetle-battle mating drama at several sites around the park. All that data now needs to be analyzed, and the research project is ongoing.

McKean said the regular Japanese people in their study area seemed lukewarm to the research team until they learned what they were up to. Their reception improved when the team revealed they studied the well-being of their beloved rhino beetle population. The researchers heard anecdotally that fewer beetles were emerging each spring later in the season, which was creating concern.

“You could tell people definitely care,” she said. “And we are not sure what’s going on. Is it a long-term impact like climate change?”

While research was the focus of the Japan trip, McKean spent a lot of time running in the Japanese humidity to maintain her cross-country training regimen. Additionally, her mother, Lih-An Yang McKean, who was born in Taiwan, rendezvoused with her on that island to reconnect with Asian family members she hadn’t seen in more than a decade.

At one point, she and two other research team members also climbed Japan’s highest peak, Mount Fuji, which tops out at 12,388 feet.

“We didn’t do any planning and roughed it really hard,” McKean said. “I think we were awake for 30 to 34 hours. We started hiking at 3 a.m. and got to see the sunrise from the top. We saw some sika deer up there, and we sent postcards to our family from a post office near the top. The entire experience was unbelievable.”

Now launching her senior year, McKean is leaning into more of a pre-med track at UM and exploring a career as a doctor.

“UM has given me so many unique experiences and learning opportunities,” she said. “The faculty have been so supportive, my classmates have pushed me, and my team has been the light of my life. And there’s such an emphasis on experiential learning, so you can end up having the craziest, best summer ever.

“I feel so lucky to be here, definitely, and I’m excited to see what’s next.”

Iris was a guest on Live Under the Big Sky this week. Listen to the entire interview:
https://soundcloud.com/kltz-glasgow/

The final slate of candidates for the October 25th Fort Peck Tribal Elections has been set.

Chairman
Justin Gray Hawk Sr.
John Morales
Bryce Kirk
Samson E. Boyd
Floyd Azure

Vice-Chair
Charles "Charlie" Headdress

Sergeant at Arms
Bruce Cubby Damon
Derrick Long Hair

Tribal Council (elect 12)
Roxanne Gourneau
Jestin Dupree
Carolyn Brugh
Wayne Martell
Stacey Summers
Dana "Sam" Buckles
Benjamin "BJ' Johnson Jr.
Melvin Terry Rattling Thunder Sr.
Rita Weeks
Elizabeth Melbourne
Adrian Spotted Bird Jr
Thomas "Big Boy" Bauer Jr
Kristian Youngman
Patt Iron Cloud
Darryl Ricker Sr.
Vernice Chopper
Loren Bighorn
Misty Daniels
Kevin Brock
Tatum Evenson
Charles "Chug" Knowlton
Michelle Charboneau Trottier
Darren Long Hair
Dr. Robin Bighorn
Frank J. Smith
Helen Daniels Bighorn
Michael J. LIttle Bull
Melissa G. Buckles
K. Shane Moran
Cynthia Michaelsen
Leonard Bighorn Crowbelt
Mary Follette
Jason Gray Hawk
George W. Blount
Lonnie Cooper
Louella Douglas Contrares
Barry Bighorn
Ray Iron Cloud
R.J. Young
Feryl Archdale Greufe
Nicholas Bighorn
Richard "Rick" Kirn
Freedom Lyman Crawford
Michael Headdress
Georgia Gibbs Atkinson
Verds Grey Bull
Peter "Tonto" Dupree
Lafon Copenhaver
Maurice C. Bighorn Jr.
Vernette "Susie" Perry
Melvin Scott

Associate Judge
Lonnie D. Headdress Sr
Imogene Lilley
Kristofer Fourstar
Kimberly Clark Johnson

From the Glasgow School District:

The Glasgow School District would like to give a special shoutout and public recognition to Kelly Doornek! Kelly is retiring at the end of this month after 32 years with Glasgow Schools and 27+ years as our Business Manager/Clerk at Central Office. Kelly leaves big shoes to fill and she will undoubtedly be missed.

Wednesday, we honored her with a “Surprise” Retirement Party following her very last board meeting. Many friends, family, and Coworkers were on hand for a party that featured fruit pizza’s from the Apple Trolley and a special clock from Baker’s Jewelry.

Kelly thank you for your dedication, commitment, and professionalism. Enjoy your well-deserved retirement.

A Poplar man who sexual abused two victims on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation admitted to charges this week, U.S. Attorney Kurt Alme said.

The defendant, Emmett Alfred Buckles, 41, pleaded guilty to 2 counts of sexual abuse of a minor. Buckles faces a term of 15 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 5 years to a lifetime of supervised release.

Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided and will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing was set for January 14, 2026. Buckles was detained pending further proceedings.

The government alleged in court documents that in March of 2024, Jane Doe 1 was forensically interviewed and disclosed she was sexually abused by Buckles. Doe 1 described that on January 22, 2024, she was drinking and doing drugs when Buckles contacted her via Facebook. Doe 1 was over the age of 12, but under the age of 16. Buckles was 39. Buckles then joined Doe 1 and they hung out together.

Later in the night and into early next morning Doe 1 and Buckles ended up at his house in Poplar. While there, Buckles sexually abused Doe in an assault that Doe described lasting hours. Doe described the layout of Buckles’ bedroom and various items in his room.

Law enforcement obtained Facebook messages between Jane Doe 2 and Buckles. Doe 2 was over the age of 12, but under the age of 16. Doe 2 was subsequently interviewed and described that in January 2024 she was using meth with Buckles, and he shot her up with meth. Buckles then sexually assaulted her. Doe 2 drew a sketch of Buckles’ room that described a similar layout to what Doe 1 observed.

Federal agents executed a search warrant at Buckles’ house in Poplar. During the search, law enforcement officers observed that many details regarding the layout of Buckles’ bedroom were consistent with both Jane Does’ statements. This included the layout and various items of personal property.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Peck Tribes Department of Law and Justice conducted the investigation.

Glasgow, MT – It’s time once again to show your Scottie spirit! The Glasgow Area Chamber of Commerce & Agriculture is excited to announce the return of the annual Scottie Pride Homecoming Buttons for 2025. This year brings something extra special — a brand-new button design for fans to choose from.

Whether you’re renewing or purchasing a new button, you’ll be entered into the Spirit Week Daily Cash Drawings for your chance to win big!

$10 – New Button
$5 – Renewal

Important Note: Old button designs will not be exchanged for new ones. If you’d like one of the new 2025 designs, they must be purchased at the new button price. However, if you’d like to keep your original button number, that option is available.

Spirit Week Cash Drawings

Monday–Thursday: Two drawings per day for $200 each
Friday: Two drawings for $500 each

Winners do not need to be present to win.
Buttons are available now at the Glasgow Area Chamber of Commerce & Ag Office. Stop by in person or call (406) 228-2222 to purchase or renew.

Proceeds from button sales support bringing tournaments to Glasgow and help fund the beloved bagpipers who bring spirit and tradition to town each year.

Don’t hide your Scottie Pride — pick up your button today and be part of the tradition!

WASHINGTON, DC (September 11, 2025) – As drivers settle into their fall routines, gas demand is going down, and eventually, pump prices should follow suit. The national average for a gallon of regular is down about a penny to $3.19. There remains an abundance of crude oil supply which is outweighing demand. The seasonal transition to winter-blend gasoline – which is cheaper to produce – is also beginning. While the national average has been relatively stable, drivers in the Pacific Northwest are feeling pain at the pump. Gas prices in the area have jumped more than 20 cents in the past week due to the shutdown of a major pipeline that transports fuel from Washington to Oregon. The pipeline is reportedly expected to resume operations in a few days.

Today’s National Average: $3.194

One Week Ago: $3.201

One Month Ago: $3.138

One Year Ago: $3.253

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand decreased from 9.11 million b/d last week to 8.50 million. Total domestic gasoline supply increased from 218.5 million barrels to 220 million. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.6 million barrels per day.

Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of Wednesday’s formal trading session, WTI rose $1.04 to settle at $63.67 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories increased by 3.9 million barrels from the previous week. At 424.6 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 3% below the five-year average for this time of year.

State Stats

The nation’s top 10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.63), Washington ($4.61), Hawaii ($4.47), Oregon ($4.27), Nevada ($3.90), Alaska ($3.84), Arizona ($3.56), Idaho ($3.51), Illinois ($3.47), and Pennsylvania ($3.35).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Mississippi ($2.71), Louisiana ($2.79), Arkansas ($2.79), Texas ($2.79), Tennessee ($2.80), Oklahoma ($2.81), Alabama ($2.82), South Carolina ($2.85), Kentucky ($2.86), and Missouri ($2.87).

Release from Valley Community Emergency Food Bank:

We have big news! An anonymous local donor donated $40,000 toward our new building fund! We are speechless. Whoever you are, thank you!

The Food Bank in Valley County is raising money for a new building to replace the current building which is small and in very bad condition.

The Glasgow School Board will meet tonight at 6pm in the Gary F. Martin Board Room at the Glasgow School District Central Office.

August runoff was above average in the lower reaches of the upper Missouri River Basin above Sioux City due to timely rainfall. This allowed the System reservoirs to maintain lower release rates while meeting the reduced navigation flow targets at all downstream locations,” said John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Missouri River Basin Water Management Division. “Runoff in the Fort Peck and Fort Peck to Garrison reaches continue to be well-below average due to long-term precipitation deficits and the below-normal mountain snowpack in the Missouri Basin. Reservoir levels at Fort Peck and Garrison dropped about 1.6 feet in August, and System storage will continue to decline this fall,” Remus added.

While more than 59% of the Missouri Basin is not experiencing drought conditions; in the western Basin, drought is expected to persist and expand to new regions of the Basin through November.

August runoff was 1.5 million acre-feet, 109% of average above Sioux City with most of the runoff entering the System below Garrison Dam. September runoff in the upper Basin is forecast to be well below average, especially in the Fort Peck and Garrison reaches. The updated 2025 calendar year forecast for the upper Basin is 19.1 MAF, 74% of average. Average annual runoff for the upper Basin is 25.7 MAF.

As of Sept. 1, the total volume of water stored in the System was 51.0 MAF, down 0.7 MAF during August. Updated reservoir studies indicate System storage is expected to be 48.0 MAF the start of the 2026 runoff season, approximately 8.1 MAF below the base of flood control zone.

Fort Peck releases will be reduced from 9,000 cfs to the fall rate of 4,000 cfs at the end of September. Garrison releases were reduced to 19,000 cfs in mid-August and will be reduced to 14,000 cfs on Sept. 16.

Reservoir Forecasts:

Fort Peck Dam
Average releases past month – 8,800 cfs
Current release rate – 9,000 cfs
Forecast average release rate –9,000 cfs through the end of September
End-of-August reservoir level – 2224.4 feet (down 1.6 feet since July 31)
Forecast end-of-September reservoir level – 2222.6 feet

Hydropower:
The six mainstem power plants generated 713 million kWh of electricity in August. Typical energy generation for August is 1,005 million kWh. The power plants are projected to generate 7.7 billion kWh of electricity this year, compared to the long-term average of 9.4 billion kWh.

The Montana Lottery has awarded $2,228,182 in high-tier prizes since September 2.

A high-tier prize is any prize of $600 or more. Winners of $5,000 or more are listed below.

A Missoula winner, playing Powerball, claimed their prize of $2,000,000 on September 4. The winning ticket was purchased at Rosauers on South Reserve Street in Missoula.

A Sidney winner, playing Powerball, claimed their prize of $200,007 on September 5. The winning ticket was purchased at Winners Corner in Missoula.

A Laurel winner, playing Big Sky Bonus, claimed their prize of $7,927 on September 3. The winning ticket was purchased at Town Pump of Laurel #3 on 1st Avenue in Laurel.

A Joliet winner, playing Shake A Day, claimed their prize of $7,015 on September 3. The winning ticket was purchased at Montana Brewing Co/Hooligan's Sports Bar in Billlings.

https://dailymontanan.com/2025/09/06/american-prairie-announces-new-acquisitions-access-in-breaks/

American Prairie announced this week it has acquired the Anchor Ranch, its second-largest land purchase to date, and it has reopened access to nearly 50,000 acres of public land in “a special area of the Breaks.”

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to secure an important piece of ecologically and culturally significant land,” said American Prairie CEO Alison Fox in a statement. “But this acquisition is equally important as a way to return public access to the people so they can explore, hunt and recreate on land that’s been off limits for many years.”

American Prairie launched in 2001 with a mission to ensure 3.2 million acres of prairie are protected, including roughly half that are already part of the Charlie M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge and the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

“But it’s important to point out that the majority of that would be — is — public land,” said American Prairie public relations manager Beth Saboe.

The new land comprises the Anchor Ranch and two additional properties in Blaine County, and it puts the total acreage American Prairie manages at 600,000, according to a news release announcing the acquisitions.

Anchor Ranch is 69 miles southwest of Havre and totals 67,960 acres, including 22,837 acres of deeded land and 45,123 of leased acres, “significantly advancing the organization’s mission of prairie ecosystem conservation,” American Prairie said.

It also opens up access to land previously tied up in a legal dispute along with Bullwhacker Road, which the Public Land Water Access Association described as “the only reasonable access” to acreage in the Breaks.

But a judge found the road was private in 2011.

In 2012, the billionaire Wilks brothers, among the largest land owners in Montana, bought the ranch. It was caught up in a controversial negotiation with the Bureau of Land Management, then put on the market again in 2022, according to a timeline from Lee Enterprises.

In its announcement about the new properties, American Prairie said a 3.8 mile section of Bullwhacker Road will be open to the public, providing access to nearly 50,000 acres of public land that have been a point of dispute and embroiled in lawsuits for years.

In a statement, Fox said the organization is proud to provide more permanent access to “this special area of the Breaks.”

“While we will take some time to develop a comprehensive public access plan for this new property, the previously private stretch of Bullwhacker Road is now officially open to the public,” Fox said.

Randy Newberg, founder of Fresh Tracks and Hunt Talk media, also praised the acquisition, especially for hunters.

“This is a win for anyone who cares about public access to our shared lands,” said Newberg in a statement provided by American Prairie. “Our audience cares deeply about the Bullwhacker Allotment as it touts exceptional habitat and opportunities to hunt. It’s an area that’s both important to protect and for the public to access.”

American Prairie has been controversial in Montana.

Some farmers and ranchers have opposed its purchases of land as detrimental to agriculture and beef production. Political leaders, including Gov. Greg Gianforte and Attorney General Austin Knudsen, have opposed grazing by bison, reintroduced there in 2020 after being gone for 120 years, according to American Prairie.

But some former critics have started coming around, Saboe said. She pointed to an online forum where hunters are active, and one poster recently said they used to be on the “Save the Cowboy” side but appreciate the public access from American Prairie — and time will tell.

American Prairie broke a visitation record in 2024 for the seventh year in a row, the news release said. It saw 6,600 overnight visitors and more than 5,000 at its National Discovery Center in Lewistown.

In 2024, 56.6% of the bookings were from Montanans, but people from every state besides five — Hawaii, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Louisiana and West Virginia — were in the books, Saboe said.

One group came from Germany, many come from Washington and California, and many also visit from the Midwest, Saboe said.

Prairie land takes a long time to restore, but American Prairie sees signs of ecological hardiness, Saboe said.

The bison herd is healthy; cameras have caught images of rarely seen animals, such as badgers; and swift foxes, reintroduced on the bordering Fort Belknap Indian Community, are migrating onto American Prairie public lands, Saboe said.

Next month, American Prairie marks its 20th year of having bison, and Saboe said it’s a big milestone. She also said the animals are doing their jobs, living their lives in a way that supports other creatures.

They graze at varying levels, giving the prairie “a bad haircut,” but one that allows a large variety of birds to nest and find protection, Saboe said. She said migrating birds can spend as much as a month on a prairie stopover in the midst of their long trips.

The bison also wallow, or roll around in the dirt, and the depressions they create often fill with water and help insects, frogs and other amphibians thrive and reproduce, Saboe said. They also offer drinking water for birds.

The news release said American Prairie acquired 1,888 deeded acres adjacent to the south side of Anchor ranch. And in a third and separate transaction in the Cow Creek basin of Blaine County, the organization acquired an additional 5,401 acres.

“This property is located in the northern portion of the Breaks and extends American Prairie’s shared fenceline with the Fort Belknap Indian Community,” the news release said.

These three acquisitions bring American Prairie’s total habitat base to 603,657 acres, which comprises 167,070 deeded acres and 436,587 leased public acres.

In the news release, American Prairie said the new properties offer important wildlife habitat for elk, deer, pronghorn and upland birds, and they provide connectivity through the Monument to the CMR and north to the Bears Paw and Little Rockies ranges.

American Prairie said it intends to share a more detailed public access plan in the future to detail recreational uses on the new deeded acres, although it will first take time to familiarize itself with the land.

On both the Anchor Ranch and the 5,401-acre property with public grazing leases, the ranching families who lease the properties will remain in place, and the land will continue to be used for agricultural production, the news release said.

“We are really pleased to have the existing lessees stay on the ground where their cattle have been grazing, and we look forward to working with these ranching families,” Fox said in a statement.

The state of Montana has taken the next step in allowing technologically savvy residents to simplify their wallets — not only can you pay with a single tap, you can also verify your identity.

Montana’s Motor Vehicle Division announced on Aug. 19 it was beginning to roll out Montana Mobile IDs, allowing Montanans with iPhones, Android devices and Apple watches to securely carry a state-issued ID or driver’s license on the device. Just over a dozen other states have adopted mobile ID technology.

Columbia Falls Rep. Braxton Mitchell, one of the legislature’s youngest representatives, sponsored House Bill 519 in 2023 to authorize the use of digital driver’s licenses for drivers, to begin Sept. 1, 2025.

“As a Gen Z lawmaker, I sponsored this bill to give Montanans the option to add their driver’s license to their digital wallet. Digital IDs are extremely secure, encrypted, and harder to fake than a traditional plastic ID,” Mitchell said in a statement. “This is a commonsense step to modernize services by adding IDs to the same place where you can already store your credit cards, insurance cards, flight tickets, and concert tickets, making life more convenient for those who choose to use it.”

Mitchell further bolstered the program during the most recent session with legislation that allows businesses to use digital IDs to verify an individual’s age for restricted sales such as alcohol and tobacco, or in gambling establishments. The new law also clarified that businesses cannot store data from an ID, or sell or transfer it to a third party.

Mitchell told the Daily Montanan in a phone interview that while it’s taken two years for the MVD to get the program up and running, the uptake has been quick, and he’s heard positive feedback from constituents.

“The first couple of days, they told me they had about 500 people enrolled, and I know they’re into the thousands now, if not the tens of thousands,” Mitchell said on Thursday. “It seems like it’s been a pretty good response without much media outreach about it.”

Representatives from MVD did not respond to requests for comment on the rollout or how many Montanans had verified their digital ID.

“We have spent the last three years modernizing MVD and improving operating efficiencies and customer service,” MVD Administrator Laurie Bakri said in a press release. “Now that we have overhauled the basics, we are excited to embark on an era of innovation, starting with Montana Mobile IDs and the Montana Mobile ID Verifier for Android and iOS mobile devices.”

Using the digital ID allows Montanans to provide age verification to participating businesses without sharing additional information such as names or addresses. They can also be used for online verification.

While the process is in place for any individual to add a mobile ID to their mobile wallets, the uptake on the business side might take more time before becoming widespread.

The state also launched its own verification app as a tool for businesses to accept mobile IDs and verify an individual’s age as 18+ or 21+, but there isn’t a requirement for businesses to utilize it.

“The division has guided the alcohol and cannabis industries through our website, in-person meetings over the past few months, and direct push notifications to those who have signed up to receive updates from the department,” Cannabis & Alcohol Regulation Division Administrator Kristan Barbour told the Daily Montanan.

Barbour said in the first few days of the roll out, the division had not received any feedback from businesses about the program.

Establishments that sell age-restricted items, such as alcohol, can use the Montana Mobile ID Verifier app, or other approved electronic readers, but the decision to accept mobile IDs is on a business-by-business basis, so Montanans might not be able to use them at their local brewery or grocery store yet.

The Montana Gambling Control Division also endorsed the state’s companion verification app for any gambling establishments.

“It’s secure and easy to use, which will make it a great addition to the services establishments already offer their customers,” Gambling Control Division Administrator Alex Sterhan said in a press release.

The Motor Vehicle Division said that Montanans should still carry a hard-copy of their ID or driver’s license with them for verification purposes, as adoption of the technology continues growing.

The Montana Highway Patrol anticipates having the ability to verify mobile IDs before the end of the year, according to a press release, but representatives with MHP did not respond to questions from the Daily Montanan about a timeline for adoption.

Mitchell said he and other colleagues in the Legislature who focus on digital privacy have continued to look at how to ensure Montanan’s are secure when using this new technology.

One additional bill passed in 2025, Senate Bill 124, sponsored by Sen. Ken Bogner, R-Miles City, clarifies that if an individual hands a law enforcement officer their phone as their identification, that does not mean they consent to having their device searched.

Bogner said in a press statement that digital IDs are a great tool for individuals worried about losing their physical ID.

“If you are worried about losing your license or having it stolen and winding up in the wrong hands, this is for you,” Bogner said. “This gives Montanans the option to securely carry their encrypted ID on their devices, protecting personal information and limiting data exposure through lost or stolen physical credentials.”

As mobile IDs become more widespread nationwide, the federal government is also transitioning various agencies to be able to utilize the technology.

The TSA has announced it accepts digital IDs issued from 16 states and Puerto Rico, including Montana Mobile IDs in a Google or Apple wallet.

In Montana, mobile IDs can be used at the state’s largest airports — Billings, Bozeman, Glacier Park, Great Falls, Helena, and Missoula — but TSA states all passengers should also carry an acceptable physical ID.

Mitchell told the Daily Montanan that over the last week, he’s heard from businesses and individuals across the state curious how the program will work, but that “the vast majority is very excited about it.”

“You can’t fake this ID. You can’t use a screen shot. It’s a live, encoded verification process,” Mitchell said, pointing out that it could be particularly beneficial in college towns to verify the ages of younger adults.

He added that he expects Montana to continue to be a leader on modernizing its code and integrating new technology.

“We’re one of the first states to do the whole process of rolling this out,” Mitchell said. “I think we’re definitely going to set the tone for other states to follow.”

Powerball players in Missouri and Texas won the estimated $1.8 billion jackpot on Saturday, overcoming astronomical odds to end the lottery game’s three-month drought without a big winner.

The winning numbers were 11, 23, 44, 61, and 62, with the Powerball number being 17.

The winning ticket in Texas was sold at a gas station-convenience store in Fredericksburg, according to the Texas Lottery.

The prize, which was the second-largest U.S. lottery jackpot in history, followed 41 consecutive drawings in which no one matched all six numbers. The last drawing with a jackpot winner happened May 31.

Powerball’s terrible odds of 1 in 292.2 million are designed to generate big jackpots, with prizes growing as they roll over when no one wins. Lottery officials note that the odds are far better for the game’s many smaller prizes. There are three drawings each week.

The estimated $1.8 billion jackpot would go to a winner who opts to receive 30 payments over 29 years through an annuity. Winners almost always choose the game’s cash option, which for Saturday night’s drawing would be an estimated $826.4 million.

Two Rivers Economic Growth is excited to announce a new partnership with the Montana Department of Commerce through the Opportunities in Rural Economies Loan Participation Program (ORE LPP). This state-funded revolving loan program helps sustain and grow rural businesses by working alongside local lenders and economic development organizations.

Through ORE LPP, Two Rivers will help rural entrepreneurs and community projects close financing gaps for initiatives like facility expansions, equipment purchases, childcare creation, and rural infrastructure improvements. The program shares the risk with lenders, making it easier for impactful projects to move forward in Valley County and beyond.

This is not a grant program—loans are made through participating banks or credit unions, with repayment required under standard terms—but it provides a unique opportunity to strengthen our local economy, create jobs, and build stronger rural communities.

For more information contact Two Rivers Economic Growth In Glasgow.

Story credit to Billings Gazette:

A Saint Marie man died Wednesday when a semi-truck collided with the sedan in which he was riding.

The crash occurred at an intersection east of Glasgow, according to a statement from Montana Highway Patrol, and resulted in one other man being hospitalized. Although overall fatalities are down this year when compared to 2024, last month was exceptionally deadly for Montana drivers.

On Wednesday afternoon, the 20-year-old Saint Marie man was a passenger in a Pontiac sedan. At the wheel was an 18-year-old man from Glasgow. The two were traveling south on Montana Highway 24. When they reached the intersection at U.S. Route 2, according to MHP, the driver failed to yield to traffic.

The Pontiac rolled into the path of an eastbound semi-truck, which struck the sedan on its passenger side. Emergency crews brought the passenger and driver of the Pontiac to a Glasgow hospital, where the Saint Marie man died of his injures. The Glasgow man is expected to recover, according to MHP. The driver of the semi-truck, a Wolf Point man in his 60s, was not injured in the crash.

Although the crash remains under investigation, speeding and intoxication were not suspected to have been factors. It is currently unknown whether the Saint Marie man was wearing a seat belt at the time of the wreck.

Wednesday’s fatal crash was at least the second in Montana this month. August ended with at least 18 fatal crashes across the state, with 20 people killed. In a two-week period last month, 11 people died, according to reporting from Lee Montana Newspapers, including four people who were in a sedan south of Ronan that collided with an RV.

As of the end of August, there were 120 fatalities on Montana’s roads this year, according to a preliminary count from MHP. Over half of those deaths have been attributed to drunk driving.

Valley County has confirmed its first human case of West Nile Virus (WNV) this season. This case is non-neuroinvasive, meaning it is a milder form of the illness.

Message from Valley Community Emergency Food Bank:

We are so grateful for the support of our community! We received a $5000 donation from the Cottonwood Inn & Suites for our new building. How generous is that? Thank you so much, we are blown away!

It’s that time of the year. The Town Pump Charitable Foundation is again matching funds raised in September and October up to $5000. Donations can be sent to PO Box 63 Glasgow MT 59230. Thank you for your support!

It has been since May 31 that anyone has hit all six numbers in the multistate Powerball lottery, causing the jackpot to grow with each drawing.

On Wednesday, the streak of drawings without a winner grew to 41, as no one matched the five white balls and one Powerball. The jackpot was worth almost $1.4 billion. Without a winner, Saturday's jackpot will be even larger, making it the biggest jackpot for a Powerball drawing in 2025 and the third-largest in the lottery's history.

Saturday's $1.7 billion jackpot marks the highest for any multistate lottery this year. If someone wins the jackpot, they have the option of choosing the $1.7 billion payment spread over 29 years, or a lump sum worth about $770.3 million before tax.

The last time the Powerball jackpot exceeded $1.7 billion was on Oct. 11, 2023.

Although Wednesday's drawing did not result in a jackpot winner, 15 players won at least $1 million by matching all five white ball numbers.

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services and Gov. Greg Gianforte announced Montana submitted a proposal wavier to strengthen the Medicaid expansion program across the state.

Officials say the waiver seeks to require community engagement and enhanced cost-sharing for working-age, able-bodied adults enrolled in the program.

The Health and Economic Livelihood Partnership Demonstration waiver will require active participation like paying premiums, contribution to communities with work, job training, education, or community service that enhance employability.

In May of 2025 there were 76,547 Montana adults enrolled in the Medicaid Expansion program. In Valley County, there were 428 adults enrolled in the program.

The HELP waiver was first proposed in July and held two public meetings to collect public comments.

Officials say the state is wanting a five-year approval of this waiver and plans to implement it upon securing deferral approval.

A District Court Jury in Glasgow found Autumn Underwood guilty of the charge of felony theft at the conclusion of a trial August 29th.

Valley County Attorney Dylan Jensen had charged Underwood with felony theft as the result of an investigation that found Underwood, while employed at Albertsons in Glasgow, had converted cash money to her own benefit in an aggregate amount of $26,762.

After the jury found Underwood guilty, Judge Yvonne Laird ordered a pre-sentence investigation by the Montana Department of Corrections.

Sentencing has been set for October 20th in Glasgow. The maximum sentence for theft of property is 10 years in prison and a fine not to exceed $10,000.

Great Falls, MT – The Montana Grain Growers Association (MGGA) is deeply concerned about the new Canadian import regulations that took effect mid-August. These regulations impose significant restrictions on importing agricultural equipment from Canada, creating challenges for many Montana farmers.

A key issue is the requirement for a detailed breakdown of the steel content in both new and used equipment, including precise percentages and specifics about smelting processes. This information is often impossible to obtain, especially for used equipment. The added burden of a 50% tariff complicates matters further, making it financially unfeasible for farmers already operating at a loss to acquire essential parts for timely harvesting and seeding.

As harvest season progresses, many farmers find themselves unable to access costly equipment they purchased from Canada. Some, having acquired equipment before the regulations were enacted, cannot provide the required smelting details at the border, effectively halting their operations. This ruling disrupts the flow of vital agricultural equipment from Canada, significantly impacting farmers in the Northern Plains who depend on Canadian resources due to similar growing conditions.

The implications are national, as domestic dealers may soon exhaust their supply of parts, facing the same challenges as Northwest farmers. Timely delivery of replacement parts and new equipment is critical for successful harvest and planting, and this ruling threatens to undermine the viability of family farms.

Klayton Lohr, President of MGGA, commented, "The Montana Grain Growers Association urges a reevaluation of the new Canadian import regulations that jeopardize the livelihoods of our farmers. Our members inability to access essential agricultural equipment not only threatens our operations but also undermines the very essence of family farms that feed our nation. We support the intent to promote American-made products, but it's critical that farmers are not penalized for seeking the tools necessary for their success. Together, we can find solutions that uphold both our agricultural heritage and the administration’s goals."

While we understand and support our presidential administration's intent to promote American-made products, these new regulations should not be implemented without providing farmers with viable alternatives for purchasing equipment domestically, especially during critical harvest and planting seasons. American farmers should not be penalized for lacking the choice of where to acquire the necessary equipment to produce food for our citizens.

President Trump campaigned heavily on supporting American farmers, particularly small family farms. Therefore, the Montana Grain Growers Association urges a swift reevaluation of these regulations and a declaration of exemption for all agricultural purposes moving forward. We are confident that we can achieve the administration's goals while ensuring that family farms remain viable. We look forward to collaborating on this important issue.

Palmer amaranth, a weed agricultural interests are desperately trying to prevent becoming established in Montana, was found last month near a grain silo in Hill County.

Agricultural groups, including those working at Montana State University Extension, have been closely tracking the weed, which is notably resistant to herbicides. There have been four reported confirmed instances of Palmer amaranth in Montana, though researchers say there isn’t a known established distribution in the state. The site is being monitored by the MSU Extension office.

The weed, while native to North America, doesn’t have a foothold in Montana. It spreads quickly and can choke out crops — it can decrease crop yields by 80 to 90% if left unchecked, according to a report in the New York Times. If it becomes established, the potential economic impact could be severe, according to MSU Extension’s agricultural department.

Herbicide resistant weeds are a “huge” issue in Montana, said Tim Seipel, a Cropland Weed Specialist with MSU Extension. Palmer amaranth is a pigweed with long, thin flower heads when compared to its more common relatives, such as redroot pigweed.

“If it really spreads out in crop fields in Montana, especially in our pulse crop industry and pulse fields — so lentils, chickpeas, beets — it would cost us millions of dollars, probably in additional herbicide input costs,” Seipel said. “So that’s why we’re trying to really be on top of it and keep it contained.”

One peer-reviewed study published in Frontiers in Plant Science found Palmer amaranth resistant to six different herbicide brands. The plant has found ways to adapt to human-created herbicides and is essentially outpacing science. It’s hard to kill — plants pulled out of the ground have been known to reestablish themselves and the plant itself can grow three inches in a day.

“When you have a species like Palmer Amaranth that has evolved resistance to many of our known herbicide modes of action, the way the herbicide kills the plant, what it does to the plant, you begin to have to stack modes of action on top of each other,” Seipel said. “You have to choose modes of action that may be still under patent. There’s no generic, you’re buying more complex tank mixes.”

What this means for farmers, Seipel said, is higher costs for weed control and lower prices for their products. Crops harvested in fields containing many green weeds also are stained by them, which means lower prices when farmers sell.

“You take it to the elevator and you sell it, you get docked economically for stained lentils,” Seipel said. “So you don’t get paid.”

Precipitation this summer, described as “abundant” in a press release discussing the weed, could be to blame for the plant taking root. Sepiel said the Palmer amaranth was found in a field following harvesting from what’s called a “custom cutter” or a company that follows ripening wheat through multiple states, harvesting it for producers.

Palmer amaranth is native to the American southwest and began seriously competing with cotton in the 1990s. It’s since moved to the Midwest and Mid-south.

The weed is not the only troublesome one in Montana. The MSU Extension Office also lists Kochia scoparia, a broadleaf weed, as a major threat to Montana as well because of how difficult to control it is.

These weeds can move via harvesters, trains – even birdseed, Seipel said. Recently, Palmer amaranth was found in Spokane County (Washington). It was tracked back to contaminated birdseed bought at a Safeway.

The first recorded palmer amaranth sighting in Montana? Also traced back to bird feed.

“Bird feed, kind of dirty stuff,” Spiel noted. “Has lots of weeds in it.”

The Extension office asked anyone who sees Palmer amaranth to contact them immediately. Much like invasive species work, quick responses can tamp down an issue before it spreads.

“Everyone’s heads are up and they’re looking for it. We found three plants so far, and none of them have made seed in the field so far,” Seipel said. “We’ve gotten them out early enough because they’re not quite adapted to Montana’s conditions yet. So the more we do that, the more we can keep it under wraps.”

A closed low pressure system will drop a cold front into Montana today and the northerly flow will keep Canadian smoke over the area through at least Wednesday.

The Montana DEQ air quality monitoring station in Glasgow is reporting unhealthy air in Glasgow as of 5am this morning. This means if outdoors, keep activities light and short in duration. Health effects on sensitive populations can be serious.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists are looking to hunters and other recreationists to report bighorn sheep seen in sheep hunting district (HD) 622.

Sheep HD 622 is located on the north side of the Missouri River Breaks in northeast Montana in southern Valley and Phillips counties and includes portions of deer and elk HD 622 and portions of 630.

Although Department staff are trying to learn more, test results from two rams in hunting district 622 tested positive for a microorganism that can cause pneumonia.

FWP biologists are seeking the public’s help to get a better sense of what sheep are left in the 622 area. If you see a sheep, make a note of the geographic area and ideally get a GPS point of the exact location. Folks can report sheep sightings to Glasgow-area biologist Aaron O’Harra at 406-808-7080 or Malta-area biologist Jake Barnes at 406-417-1270

The Glasgow City Council will meet tonight at 5pm in the Council Chambers in the Glasgow Civic Center.

The council will vote on approving tax assessments for the 2025-2026 tax year.

After there was no billion-dollar Labor Day Powerball winner on Monday, jackpot dreams are still alive as the prize money swells to a staggering $1.30 billion.

The next drawing will be on Wednesday night, with the jackpot having an estimated cash value of $589.0 million before taxes.

The winning numbers in Monday's drawing were 8, 23, 25, 40 and 53 with a red Powerball of 5. Nationwide, ten tickets matched all five white balls to win $1 million prizes. The $1 million-winning tickets were sold in California, Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey (2), New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia, according to Powerball.

Wednesday’s jackpot ranks as the fifth largest in the Powerball game and the ninth largest among U.S. lottery jackpot games.

Monday's drawing marked the 40th attempt to find a jackpot winner since May 31, 2025. The current streak approaches the record of 42 consecutive drawings, which ended with a $1.326 billion winner in Oregon on April 6, 2024.

Winners can choose between annual payments over 30 years, with a 5% increase each year, or the immediate cash option.

Powerball's history includes record-breaking prizes, with the largest being a $2.04 billion jackpot won in California in November 2022, followed by a $1.765 billion prize claimed in California in October 2023, and a $1.586 billion jackpot split among winners in California, Florida and Tennessee in January 2016.

Other notable wins include the $1.326 billion Oregon prize, the $1.08 billion California win in July 2023, and prizes ranging from $842.4 million to $754.6 million won across Michigan, Wisconsin, Massachusetts and Washington.

The Institute for Tourism and Recreation and Research is reporting over $5 billion was spent by nonresidents in Montana in 2024.

The largest expenditure by nonresidents traveling in and through Montana was gasoline and diesel. $1.2 billion was spent statewide on fuel by nonresidents while $909 million was spent at bars and restaurants and $837 million at hotels.

In Valley County, $86.5 million was spent in Valley County by nonresidents. This includes $25 million in gasoline and diesel, $15.8 million in restaurant and bars and $13.4 million in hotels.

Nonresident visitors spent the most money in Gallatin County with $887 million spent in the gateway to Yellowstone National Park. Flathead County had $850 million spent on the doorstep of Glacier National Park.

ITRR prepares these estimates through data collected via in-person interviews with travelers, as well as data from secondary sources.

The US Army Corps of Engineers Fort Peck Interpretive Center will be open Labor Day weekend, Saturday and Sunday, Aug 30 and 31, from 9:00a-4:00p.

Powerhouse tours:
Aug 30, Saturday every hour starting at 9:30, 10:30, 11:30, 12:30, 1:30, 2:30, 3:30
Aug 31, Sunday tours will run 9:30, 11:30, 1:30 and 3:30.

Register for tours at the Interpretive Center the day of the tour.
Participants 18 and older must have a REAL ID or passport or similar compliant ID.
Pacemakers are not allowed on the tour.
You must have a vehicle to follow the tour guide over to the powerhouse compound.
There are about 65 stairs.

In addition, the Interpretive Center will be open Saturdays through September 9:00a to 4:00p, with powerhouse tours offered at 9:30, 11:30, 1:30 and 3:30.

Fort Peck Fine Arts Council News Release:

We are thrilled to announce our new Artistic Director: Shelby Art-Koljonen!

Shelby brings her talent, vision, and creative energy to the role starting September 2nd, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome her to the team. Stay tuned for the amazing things ahead!

Shelby Art-Koljonen is thrilled to be returning to Fort Peck Summer Theatre in 2026 as the Artistic Director! Shelby has enjoyed a diversified theater career taking on roles as a director, performer, stage manager, marketing assistant, and production manager and looks forward to bringing all of those skills to the table in her new role with FPST. Shelby began her theater career at a young age - performing in community theater from the age of 9 and diving into directing full community musicals at age 15. Shelby graduated summa cum laude from California State University, Fresno as a Dean's Medalist with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Acting and she has been lucky enough to work in the theater industry nearly every day since. After graduating college, Shelby worked with Missoula Children's Theater where she adored touring and then working in the home office in Missoula, Montana. Shelby then ventured to Boston where she got married (to a FPST alum) and worked as a stage manager, director and production manager at Brandeis University. She now resides in Washington, DC and is looking forward to being in Montana for Summer 2026!

Shelby is grateful to the wonderful Andy Meyers who introduced her to the Jewel of the Prairie, Fort Peck Summer Theatre back in 2018. Since that first introduction, Shelby has been involved with FPST whenever possible - wearing hats as a director, stage manager, performer, props designer, camp teacher - some of her favorite productions include Dames At Sea, Forever Plaid, Bridges of Madison County, Wait Until Dark, Bonnie & Clyde and Cinderella. Shelby is so honored to be a part of the Fort Peck legacy and looks forward to helping it thrive as a cultural cornerstone of Montana. She can't wait to bring the community a 2026 season filled with heart, humor and humanity.

On the early morning hours of Monday, August 25th, 2025, a report of an individual on a 4-wheeler that drove by others in front of a residence on the south side housing area of Wolf Point was received. The driver of the 4-wheeler shot at the others, injuring one of the individuals. The victim was taken to the Wolf Point Hospital and was subsequently flown to another care facility in the state. Law enforcement officials were notified and an investigation began and is currently in progress.

The individual on the 4-wheeler left the incident immediately after the shooting. Law enforcement arrived and recovered and collected evidence at the scene.

DANTE ROYAL MARTELL is being sought and is considered a person of interest. Any information on his whereabouts is requested and appreciated. Any caller(s) can remain anonymous.
Please contact the Roosevelt County Dispatch Center at 911 or on their non-emergent number (406) 653-6240, thank you.

Students at Glasgow High School now have a more comfortable and inviting place to gather, thanks to the addition of four new outdoor, weather-resistant benches provided by the Glasgow High School Trust Fund.

The new benches replace older wooden seating that had deteriorated over time. The wooden benches could no longer hold paint, with flaking surfaces that discouraged use. The updated benches not only offer a more comfortable option but also enhance the school's appearance.

"These benches provide a great spot for students to enjoy their free time outside or wait comfortably for their ride or bus after school," said Principal Brett Huntsman. "We're grateful to the GHS Trust Fund for supporting improvements that directly benefit our students."

The Glasgow High School community expresses sincere appreciation for the Trust Fund's continued commitment to enhancing student life and the school environment.

About the Glasgow High School Trust Fund

The Glasgow High School Trust Fund supports projects and initiatives that enrich the educational experience for students, funding everything from facility improvements to academic and extracurricular opportunities.

Domestic availability of red meat, poultry and eggs is projected to increase in 2025, driven by gains in chicken and pork availability, and is expected to rise further in 2026, reports the USDA Economic Research Service (ERS). This increase stems from USDA’s forecast of per capita supply available for use on the domestic market.

How are these numbers determined? ERS says availability, also known as disappearance, serves as a proxy for consumption and includes fresh and processed meat and eggs sold through grocery stores and used in restaurants.

“The latest USDA data indicate 226 lb. of red meat and poultry and about 22 dozen eggs are available per U.S. consumer in 2025. By 2026, per capita availability is forecast to increase to 227 lb. for red meat and poultry and to 23 dozen eggs,” ERS reports.

Chicken Projected to Be Most Consumed Animal Product
For chicken, per capita availability of broiler meat has been growing for many years and is projected to reach 102.7 lb. in 2025 and 102.8 lb. in 2026, ERS says. This will make it the most consumed animal product in the U.S.

However, availability of turkey has been falling in recent years and is projected to reach a low of 13.0 lb.per person in 2025 but increase to 13.6 lb. in 2026.

Per capita table egg availability for 2025 is projected at 21.5 dozen and is projected to increase to 22.9 dozen per person in 2026.

Pork and Beef Projections
ERS reports that pork availability per capita is projected at 49.7 lb. in 2025 and 50.9 lb. in 2026, up from 49.9 lb. in 2024.

Meanwhile, per capita beef availability for 2025 is projected to be slightly lower than 2024 at 58.5 lb., but is projected to decrease further to 56.9 lb. per person in 2026.

Over the past year, the price of beef has been steadily increasing, leaving consumers in sticker shock at checkout.

Ahead of Labor Day weekend, when many Americans may plan to fire up the grill for a final summer gathering with burgers or steaks, the cost of the red meat proteins may mean a menu reset for the holiday weekend.

According to the latest Consumer Price Index data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ground beef prices rose 11.5% and beef steak prices rose 12% compared to this time last year.

The meats, poultry, fish, and eggs category was up 0.2% last month, according to CPI data, with a 1.5% increase in the beef and veal index specifically.

Prices climbed less than expected in July, despite Trump's tariffs

In June, beef prices hit a record $9.26 per pound, according to the USDA.

Agricultural economists have pointed to several reasons for the rising costs.

Dr. Michael Swanson, chief agriculture economist for the Wells Fargo Agri-Food Institute, explained that beef -- from how it's produced, distributed, sold and consumed -- is "fragmented and complex," which makes pricing recovery slower and more unpredictable.

Some of the factors he cited as potentially fueling the surge in prices included lingering droughts that shrank cattle herds and will take years to rebuild.

Additionally, an influx of screwworm outbreaks in beef cattle prompted the government to halt imports from Mexico, according to the USDA.

Swanson also said that misconceptions around tariffs that can get baked into overall food costs could also be at play.

Despite the challenges facing people who buy and consume beef, the U.S. continues to attract enough imports to stabilize its beef supply.

Luke Strommen was re-sentenced in District Court Monday, August 25th. Presiding over the sentencing hearing was Ravalli County District Judge Jennifer Lint. Representing the State Attorney’s Office was Meghann Paddock, and for the defense was Casey Moore and Annie DeWolf of the Public Defender’s Office.

At the close of a five-day trial in Glasgow in 2020, the jury returned a guilty verdict on the charge of sexual intercourse without consent and Strommen was sentenced to 40 years in prison. Strommen later appealed the conviction to the Montana Supreme Court.

In a split 4-to-2 decision, the Montana Supreme Court, in a April 2024 decision, said that because Luke Strommen was denied the right to cross-examine a witness face-to-face, a move that violated his state and federal constitutional rights, the case should head back to District Court Judge John W. Larson on the charge of sexual intercourse with a minor without consent.

The State of Montana chose to not take the case back to trial and entered into a plea agreement with Strommen.

During the hearing in Glasgow, Judge Lint heard arguments from the state and the defense, with the state requesting a 15-year prison term – suspended - without the possibility of early release. Strommen would receive credit for time already served. The defense argued for a lesser sentence of 10 years – suspended - also with credit for time already served. The defense did also request a revision of conditions that would allow Strommen to continue bow-hunting.

The victim appeared via Zoom and shared a powerful impact statement. She directed most of her remarks to Strommen, at one point stating, “Still today, I’m not as grown as you were when you abused me,” and “I’m deeply sorry I ever met you.”

When given the opportunity to address the court, Strommen expressed regret for his actions and assured the judge that he takes full responsibility for what he did, stating, “I am dedicated to living the rest of my life with accountability, growth and responsibility.”

Prior to announcing her sentence, Judge Lint addressed the victim, stating, “You are an incredible, brave, strong human being,” and she thanked members of the community that were in attendance.
Her remarks to Strommen included an admonishment: “Without this plea agreement, you would absolutely be going to prison. You richly deserve some punishment.”

At the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Lint announced a 15-year prison term, all suspended, with credit for three years and 315 days already spent in custody, and no opportunity for early release. He will also be designated a Level 1 Sexual Offender. She also denied Strommen his request to continue bow-hunting.

North Dakota's oil and gas production rebounded for the month of June.

Oil production went up three and a half percent compared to May, staying in the 1.1 million barrel per day range.

Gas production saw nearly a one-and-a-half percent increase, extracting more than 3.4 billion cubic feet of gas per day.

Officials said they project slight increases heading into the summer months.

“We do know in May and June, certain operators had because of the low environment curtailed some production in the state. DMR believes that curtailed production is coming back online,” said Nathan Anderson, Department of Mineral Resources Director.

Pipeline Authority Director Justin Kringstad said the long-term oil market looks bearish.

The Energy Information Administration said the price for WTI crude may drop below the 60s as supply outweighs demand.

The Fort Peck Tribal election will be held October 25th. The last day to file for office with the Fort Peck Tribes is September 10th.

As gas prices keep falling this summer, the big question is how low will they go? This past week, the national average for a gallon of regular fell three cents to $3.13. You’d have to go back to 2020 for a lower national average on August 21 – that day the price was $2.18. With gas prices for this day the lowest they’ve been in 5 years, some are wondering if the national average will go below $3 a gallon in the coming weeks. There are too many variables to make a prediction; the oil market is too volatile. But if crude oil prices remain low and barring any major geopolitical events or tropical storms hitting the Gulf Coast, it’s safe to say drivers could continue to see cheaper prices at the pump as summer winds down.

Today, the national average price is $3.16 per gallon. In Montana, the average price is $3.23 per gallon and in Valley County the average price is $3.10 per gallon according to AAA. In eastern Montana you can find gasoline below $3.00 per gallon in several counties.

According to new data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), gasoline demand decreased from 9 million b/d last week to 8.84 million. Total domestic gasoline supply decreased from 226.3 million barrels to 223.6. Gasoline production decreased last week, averaging 9.6 million barrels per day.

Oil Market Dynamics

At the close of last week's formal trading session, WTI rose 86 cents to settle at $63.21 a barrel. The EIA reports crude oil inventories decreased by 6 million barrels from the previous week. At 420.7 million barrels, U.S. crude oil inventories are about 6% below the five-year average for this time of year.

The nation’s top 10 most expensive gasoline markets are California ($4.49), Hawaii ($4.46), Washington ($4.39), Oregon ($3.97), Alaska ($3.76), Nevada ($3.73), Idaho ($3.50), Illinois ($3.39), Utah ($3.32), and Arizona ($3.30).

The nation’s top 10 least expensive gasoline markets are Mississippi ($2.68), Oklahoma ($2.70), Louisiana ($2.72), Texas ($2.74), Alabama ($2.75), Tennessee ($2.77), Arkansas ($2.80), South Carolina ($2.81), Kansas ($2.83), and Missouri ($2.83).

This summer, the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) partnered with Montana State University’s Science Math Resource Center to host its first-ever Geospatial & Mapping Camp in Malta. The free, five-day program, held June 9–13, introduced high school students to tools and technologies like mapping software, drones, GPS, and satellite imagery that are increasingly important in agriculture, conservation, and land management.

Funded through the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the camp combined classroom learning with daily field trips across Phillips County. Students toured rotational grazing systems, mapped drought conditions on rangelands, explored historical landscapes, and connected their findings to the real-world work of ranchers, conservationists, and wildlife specialists.

Each day, students met with professionals in the geospatial field, including MSU geography professor Dr. Beth Nelson, GIS consultant and Blackfeet Tribal member Kendal Edmo, and USGS remote sensing scientist Matthew Rigge. They learned how data collection and mapping can be used to monitor land health, predict challenges like grasshopper outbreaks, and plan for sustainable use of working lands. These are skills that can support the future of both agriculture and rural communities.
The week ended with student-led mapping projects, from exploring habitat in relation to prairie dog towns to comparing bird nesting sites in landscapes with varying human impact. Both projects were presented to local community members, with one later shared at Montana State University’s GIS Day in Bozeman.

While recruitment proved challenging in this first year, RSA sees the experience as a launching pad. “This camp showed us the power of combining STEM with place-based education,” said RSA Mapping Specialist Maida Knapton. “Even with a small group, the growth we saw was incredible. We’re already exploring ways to bring this curriculum to local students so more can engage with these tools and ideas.”

For RSA, the camp is part of a broader commitment to stewarding ranchers, communities, and the land. By equipping the next generation with technical skills and a deeper understanding of how agriculture and conservation intersect, RSA is investing in the people who will one day work alongside ranchers, and in some cases become ranchers themselves, to keep Montana’s working landscapes healthy, productive, and resilient.

About the Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA): Ranchers Stewardship Alliance (RSA) is a rancher-led nonprofit dedicated to keeping ranchers ranching. For more than 20 years, we’ve provided virtual and in-person education, invested in on-the-ground infrastructure with the help of strong partners, and advanced community-led conservation. From succession planning to creative land access, RSA is creating real pathways for the next generation to carry ranching forward.

Boaters should use caution at Bone Trail Recreation Area on Fort Peck Lake. Launching/loading is not possible at regular ramp due to low water levels. Gravel approach to low water ramp may be soft.

Launch at your own risk. Current lake elevation is 2224’. Fourchette and Devils Creek are accessible.

Daniels Memorial Healthcare Center (DMHC) announced the formal launch of a capital campaign to help fund a $35 million replacement hospital and healthcare center for Scobey and the surrounding region. The announcement was made during the Daniels Memorial Healthcare Foundation’s annual golf tournament on August 8th, officially kicking off a $4.5 million private fundraising effort to be completed within the next year.

With more than $2.6 million already pledged, the campaign is off to a strong start. The project received a significant boost with the USDA’s issuance of a Letter of Conditions, giving DMHC the green light to move forward on plans for a modern, purpose-built healthcare facility designed to serve Daniels County and Northeast Montana for decades to come.

A Modern Hospital for a Rural Community

The current hospital, built in 1952, is among the oldest in Montana and no longer meets the standards needed for today’s healthcare delivery. Serving over 1,800 patients annually, DMHC provides critical access to emergency, long-term, and routine medical care for the region. The new 43,700-square-foot, single-level facility will bring expanded services, improved accessibility, and state-of-the-art medical infrastructure, including:

• Updated long-term care wing and centralized nursing station

• Larger, modern clinic space and expanded rehabilitation facilities

• On-site lab testing and dedicated space for visiting specialists

• Patient rooms with in-room oxygen access

• Heated, covered ambulance bay and enhanced emergency department capacity

Community Support Essential to Success

While the USDA loan will fund the majority of the project cost, the $4.5 million private campaign is critical to ensuring the new hospital is fully equipped to meet the community’s needs. Donations of all sizes are encouraged, with popular pledge options ranging from $500/year to $5,000/year over five years.

The Glasgow Police Department is seeking information about vandalism that occurred on Wednesday, August 20, 2025. At approximately 7:30 p.m., a white pickup with a male driver hooked a chain to a motorcycle on 4th Street South.

The driver then pulled the tipped-over motorcycle down Mahon Street for approximately two blocks. The chain eventually broke as the motorcycle struck a garbage can on Ohlson Street. The driver then fled the scene, leaving the motorcycle and garbage can in the middle of the roadway.

The incident appears to be targeted at a specific person, and there does not appear to be a danger or threat to other community members or their property. If you have any information regarding this incident, please call Dispatch at 406-228-4333 or the Glasgow Police Department at 406-228-8050.

Governor Greg Gianforte today announced Montana’s unemployment rate remained at 2.8% in July, marking the tenth straight month under 3% and over four consecutive years of unemployment at or below 3.4%, a new record.

“For another consecutive month, Montana ranks in the top five states in the nation with the lowest unemployment rates – a testament to our historic job growth over the last four years,” Gov. Gianforte said. “We’ll continue to welcome historic business investment to the Treasure State and innovate through workforce development initiatives like 406 JOBS for Montanans to seek meaningful employment.”

Montana’s unemployment rate was 1.4% lower than the national unemployment rate, which was 4.2% in July. Montana ranked in the top five states in the nation with the lowest unemployment rates.

The unemployment rate in Valley County for July was 2.4% with total employment at 3,741. Roosevelt County was at 4.4% and in Phillips County 3%.

Total employment (which includes payroll, agricultural, and self-employed workers) increased slightly in July. The construction and retail trade industries added the most jobs over the month, each adding 500 or more jobs. Payroll jobs increased by 500 jobs over the month with losses in government employment.

The month of July marked the fifth consecutive month where the number of unemployed Montanans remained below 16,000 – near the record low of just under 14,000 which was reached in 2023.

The Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U) increased 0.2% on a seasonally adjusted basis in July. The index for shelter rose 0.2% in June, the primary factor for the monthly all items increase. Over the last 12 months, the all-items index rose 2.7% with core inflation rising 3.1%. The index for all items minus food and energy, or core inflation, rose 0.3% in July.

With the start of a new school year, the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) is reminding Montanans to be mindful of school bus laws to help ensure Montana students get to and from school safely.

From 2023-2024, there were a total of 144 school bus violations, 80 citations, and 29 warnings issued to those who failed to obey school bus traffic laws in Montana

Keep these traffic laws in mind when approaching a school bus:

Prepare to slow down when you see the amber/yellow flashing lights. Stop 30 feet from a stopped school bus when it is flashing red lights.

When a school bus is stopped at a four-way intersection, vehicles can’t turn left, turn right, or pass the school bus.

When the stop arm is out on a school bus on a non-divided highway or two-lane road, traffic traveling all directions must stop within 30 feet of the bus.

Reckless driving penalties for drivers who pass, in either direction, a stopped school bus that is displaying the visual flashing red signal is a $285 fine for a first offense and a $785 for a second offense.

Story from Northern Plains Independent:

The Roosevelt County Sheriff/Coroner reports that there a 14-year-old juvenile male was the victim of a fatal shooting on Friday, Aug. 15.

Deputies responded to a report of an accidental shooting on Eighth Avenue North close to 7:30 a.m. on Friday.

The suspect in the shooting is a 13-year-old male.

The victim has been transported for an autopsy. The Federal Bureau of Investigation is conducting an investigation.

The names of the two juveniles have not been released.

It has come to our attention that SCAM artists are calling local citizens of Valley County, telling them they have a warrant of arrest (for missing jury duty) and if you do not pay $$$ you will be taken to jail.

Do Not Fall For This SCAM - or any Scam such as this.
The Valley County Sheriff's Office will never call to tell you to pay money to clear a Warrant. We will never ask you to send money by way of WESTERN UNION. We will never ask you to send $$ via PAYPAL. PERIOD.

If you have a Warrant, Summons, Civil Papers that needs to be served to you, Valley County Sheriff Deputies will come to your house to serve you in person. If we cannot reach you at your home, after multiple attempts, we may try your place of work. Sometimes we will call you and ask for a convenient time to meet you or have you come to the office in person to receive your paperwork.

If you have a Warrant of Arrest we will simply come arrest you.
If you receive a scam phone call please notify dispatch on the non emergency number 406-228-4333 opt#2 and provide as much detail as possible about the interaction with the scammers. Providing phone numbers they called from (typically it will say No Caller ID), any identifiers like names, PayPal addresses, or Western Union account numbers can help us track down the perpetrators of this crime.

Lastly, if you believe a scammer is on the phone with you, it is okay to just hang up. Do not provide any personal information, account numbers, social security numbers, etc. You can call the Sheriff's Office to verify what you were told on the phone.
Please protect yourself and pass this on to your friends and family.
Sheriff Boyer

Servers and bartenders in Montana are eligible for a new federal income tax break on their tips this year but industry representatives said a lack of clear information could keep many from benefiting.

The deduction, a centerpiece of the GOP's One Big Beautiful Bill Act, allows workers to exclude the first $25,000 of their tip income from their federal taxable income.

Brad Griffin, executive director of the Montana Restaurant Association, called it a positive development and urged affected individuals to pay close attention to IRS guidelines.

"It's a deduction off the top line of your income tax," Griffin explained. "You still have to report all of your tips under federal law but you will be able to deduct the first $25,000 off the top line as you file your income taxes."

The Internal Revenue Service released formal guidance detailing how tipped workers can claim the new tax deduction retroactive to January 2025. Griffin noted the change only applies to federal income tax, not Social Security or Medicare withholding and is temporary, set to expire after three years.

The main obstacle now is awareness. Griffin pointed out the responsibility will fall on individual employees to know about the deduction and claim it correctly when they file their taxes, as many may overlook the complex change without help from a tax professional.

"It hasn't gotten a lot of publicity on it," Griffin acknowledged. "Gonna be some administrative challenges from the restaurant operator's perspective but really it's going to be more on the server to be aware of it and to file for the deduction."

Griffin added Montana's 2024 state-level tip taxation proceeded without industry pushback or operational problems. The IRS clarified the federal deduction is available regardless of whether taxpayers itemize. Employers must also file information returns and provide statements to employees detailing cash tips received and their occupation.

The Glasgow City Council on Tuesday set taxes for city residents on Tuesday at a regular budget meeting.

The council reached a consensus to increase the number of mills levied to support the city's general fund. 448.65 mills will be levied on city taxpayers generating $1,664,110.15. This is an increase from $1556,118.36 from last year's budget.

The general fund is used to fund most city services such as the Glasgow Police Department, Glasgow Fire Department and the Glasgow Recreation Department.

The council also agree to increase the street maintenance assessment by 10%. This will increase the assessment by $61,416.16 for a total of $675,577.76.

The council agreed to not assess and increase for solid waste and lighting in the city.

A public hearing will be held September 2nd on the levy increases.

The Glasgow High School Educational Trust (GHSET) is pleased to announce that at their July 23, 2025 semi-annual meeting, 19 students attending a variety of higher learning institutions and the Glasgow High School were awarded gifts. These gifts total $97,000 for students and over $15,400 for the high school. The gifts awarded at that meeting have put the total amount the GHSET has awarded, since its inception, at over $3.5 million.

The GHSET was established in 1964, by members of the GHS Class of 1938, to help GHS alumni pursue higher education, when financial assistance was needed to meet their educational goals. The motivation behind the formation of the Trust was the G.I. Bill. Using the educational assistance that was part of the G.I. Bill, one of the GHSET founders, Cecil Toftness, attained his law degree. Cecil, and his classmates, wanted to support GHS alumni in the same manner, and the GHSET was formed. Later, GHSET gift giving was expanded to include gifts to the Glasgow High School (GHS).

The GHSET awards financial aid to GHS alumni pursuing higher education at colleges/universities and trade schools. All GHS graduates attending an accredited college or trade school and that are in good academic standing, are encouraged to apply. The application, which lists all requirements that must be met, and other information, is available at www.ghsedutrust.org. Financial need has always been a primary consideration; therefore, the trust has established levels of support to meet student’s different needs, and it distributes the funds available accordingly, at its semi-annual meetings. Application deadlines are July 1st and October 15th of each year.

The GHSET also considers purchases of equipment, uniforms, and other support materials for the GHS that cannot be financed by traditional taxpayer-funded sources. Over the years, every department of the high school has benefited from purchases by the GHSET. Every student across the curriculum has benefited throughout his or her years of study. These gifts also benefit the larger community when they attend activities at the school or use the school’s facilities for special events.
The first student gifts awarded by the GHSET were in 1966, since then, there have been over 2,700 gifts awarded to over 800 students and over 130 gifts awarded to GHS. Total student gifts exceed $3,000,000 and total school gifts exceeds $345,000.

The GHSET is now helping the third generation of GHSET alumni and students with its gifting. The GHSET awarded the following gifts at its July 23rd meeting for the Fall (F) 2025 and Spring (S) 2026 semesters, in honor (IHO), memory (IMO), or recognition (IRO) of the name(s) following theirs:

First-time recipients:
Tatum Nyquist – MSU – (F) IMO Maxine Fiedler/(S) IMO Ardis Parke Fuhrman
Teagan Peterson – NDSCS – (F) IMO Paul & Joyce Ruffcorn Jacobson/(S) IMO Dillon Cassel Eve Stone – Southern Oregon U – (F) IMO Gary & Idella Mott/(S) IMO Dean L Rusher

Second-time recipients:
Mason Donaldson – U of M – (F) IRO 1966 Scholarship Gift to Karen Anne Swenson/(S) IHO Stan Andersen Family
Morgan Fast – MSU – (F) IMO Horace O & Emma C Gamas/(S) IMO James K “Jamie” Fewer
Ava Lloyd – MSU – (F) IMO Marsha Cotton Hall/(S) IMO James A “Jim” Parke
Alli Palm – MT Tech U – (F) Hovland Family/(S) IHO Dorothy Kolstad
Riley Smith – MT Tech U – (F) IRO Willard & Charlotte Bruce Family/IMO Aaron “Chappy” Chatten
Mason Swenson – U of M – (F) IMO Leonard H & Kathryn L Langen/(S) IMO Michael C “Mike” Kaiser
Lane Thompson – MSU – (F) IMO Stan & Eva Kalinski/(S) IMO LJ & Jean Baker
Emma Whitmer – U of M – (F) IHO Charlotte Bruce/(S) IHO Carl L Dix

Third-time recipients:
Abigail Engstrom – U of M – (F) IMO James F & Anne Hoffmann/(S) IMO Dr FM & Bernice Knierim
Tyann Graham – Opal Beauty Academy – (F) IMO Vern & Edna Richardson
Klaire Krumweide – UND – (F) Judith “Judy” Rorvik Saindon/(S) IHO Sever & Esther Enkerud
Kylie Lagerquist – U of Jamestown – (F) IMO Robert E “Bob” Rennick, Jr/(S) IHO James & Ailene Dokken Olk Family
Iris McKean – U of M – (F) IRO Glenn & Carolee Grina Wallem/(S) IMO Donald J “Don” Baker
Abrianna Nielsen – Dickinson State U – (F) IMO Leslie L, Lillian, and Mary Margarette Hanson
Mitchel Winchester – MSU – (F) IMO Cecil & Chloe Vincent Toftness/(S) IHO Everett & Elizabeth Breigenzer

Fourth-time recipients:
Victoria Pehlke – U of M Western – (F) IRO Beatrice Trites & Family/(S) IMO Karen D Newton

Glasgow High School:
Multi-Purpose: 96 plastic chairs, 42 plastic tables, 5 transfer/storage racks – IHO Linda Shepherd Allie

Multi-Purpose: 4 Benches – IMO Ivy & Millie Knight

The GHSET is a non-profit 501(c)(3) tax exempt organization, classified as a 509(a)(1) public charity. All donations are tax deductible. Only the interest on the principal of the GHSET is gifted. Information on how to donate is available on the trust’s webpage at www.ghsedutrust.org.

The GHSET has received donations of all sizes from people across the country and from all walks of life. Many contributions are made in honor, memory, or recognition of a specific individual, organization, or event; donations of all sizes are appreciated. Donations to the trust that total $500 or more in the name of a specific individual, organization, or event allow for a one-time gift to be awarded in that name. Donations of $10,000 or more allow for an ongoing naming opportunity on a regular basis.

As the trust begins it’s 60th year of giving, former recipients and their families, and all who benefit from gifts given to GHS, are asked to remember the GHSET with their donations. A full list of all student and high school gifts since the GHSET’s inception are located at GHS and the Valley County Pioneer Museum; they are updated at the end of each calendar year.

The GHSET thanks its many supporters for their generosity and loyalty over the past 60 years. The GHSET’s success is based on the donations of many GHS alumni that retain a deep appreciation for the educations they received at GHS, and the town of Glasgow itself. The practice of “paying it forward” will help ensure the GHSET is able to continue investing in GHS alumni and the Glasgow High School for future generations.

A man died in a vehicle rollover crash in Phillips County on Thursday, August 14, 2025.

It happened at about 7:20 a.m. near the intersection of Sun Prairie Road and Content Road, about 26 miles south of Malta.

According to the Montana Highway Patrol, a 40-year old man from Malta was driving a Chevy Silverado south on Sun Prairie Road.

For some reason, the vehicle went off the left side of the road and overturned.

The man died at the scene; his name has not been released.

He was the only occupant of the vehicle.

According to the MHP, alcohol and speed are suspected as factors in the crash; the MHP report says that it is "unknown" if he was wearing a seatbelt at the time.

The Fort Peck Tribal election will be held October 25th. The last day to file for office with the Fort Peck Tribes is September 10th.

President Donald Trump on Monday railed against mail-in voting and vowed to “lead a movement” to eliminate the practice ahead of the 2026 midterms.

“ELECTIONS CAN NEVER BE HONEST WITH MAIL IN BALLOTS/VOTING, and everybody, IN PARTICULAR THE DEMOCRATS, KNOWS THIS,” he wrote on Truth Social. “I, AND THE REPUBLICAN PARTY, WILL FIGHT LIKE HELL TO BRING HONESTY AND INTEGRITY BACK TO OUR ELECTIONS.”

Trump has for years opposed mail-in ballots, insisting that they played a role in voter fraud he baselessly claims cost him the 2020 presidential election.

The president on Monday indicated he would sign an executive order to assist with the effort to roll back mail-in voting. He also said he would target voting machines, instead favoring watermark paper for ballots. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment on what the order would entail.

Valley County voters have embraced mail-in-voting in recent years. In 2024, 92% of all votes cast in Valley County were done by mail-in-voting. In fact, out of 4148 votes cast by Valley County voters, only 352 voters cast their ballot in person.

In the 2024 election in Montana, 81% of all votes cast were done by mail-in ballot. 495,286 votes were cast by mail and 117,137 were cast in person.

“Now they need that money in order to have the Post Office work so it can take all of these millions and millions of ballots,” the president said on Fox Business Network in a 2020 interview. “By the way, those are just two items, but if they don’t get those two items that means you can’t have universal mail-in voting.”

Historically, Democrats have returned more mail-in votes than Republicans, who more often vote in person. But the use of mail-in voting spiked dramatically during the 2020 election amid the Covid-19 pandemic and has remained higher in the subsequent elections.

In 2024, Trump’s campaign and the RNC disseminated information to help their base vote by mail despite Trump’s continued efforts to sow disdain for the practice.