After review by the Community Development Board, Commission to discuss issue Oct. 17
 
BOZEMAN— On Oct. 17, Bozeman City Commission will consider an ordinance changing short-term rental regulations. The most notable potential revision includes banning “Type 3” rentals – homes that are not owner-occupied for the majority of the year. If the Commission votes to approve this change, there may be limitations on renewals for existing owners and bans on any new Type 3 short-term rentals.

The ordinance also proposes splitting “Type 2” rentals into two categories: Type 2A, a single-household dwelling unit (house) that is the host’s primary residence, and Type 2B, an ADU on the same lot or one unit in the same building as the primary residence (such as a duplex or condo unit). Additional changes in the ordinance include adjusting terminology referring to hosts and increasing the residency requirement from 50 percent to 70 percent of the year.

 
The City’s Community Development Board considered the ordinance at a public hearing on Oct. 2. Public comments were made both in opposition to the proposed ban and in support of it. The Board ultimately recommended the City Commission adopt the ordinance with several amendments. Most notably, this includes only banning new Type 3 short-term rentals and allowing existing lawful Type 3’s to continue operating. The Commission will discuss the ordinance and whether to make the Board’s suggested changes or other changes on Oct. 17.

 
Most of Bozeman’s STR regulations originated in 2017. Ordinance 1974 established a number of regulations classifying types and where they are allowed, as well as the need to register, have a fire inspection, and comply with permit requirements.  More recently in July 2023, Commission passed Ordinance 2131 which requires hosting platforms such as Airbnb and VRBO to remove listings that fail to provide a valid city permit number.

 
“The City is already seeing improved compliance as a result of the July ordinance, and we expect this trend to continue as more hosts become aware,” Erin George, Deputy Director of Community Development explained. “Should the next ordinance be adopted in one form or another, our staff will be ready to help everyone navigate the changes.”

 
More information on short-term rentals and the regulations around them can be found at https://www.bozeman.net/departments/community-development/planning/short-term-rentals.
 

A significant uptick in COVID-19 cases as well as reported flu cases have already been detected in Gallatin County.
It is important to take proper steps to reduce the spread of respiratory illnesses, including flu and COVID-19, in
order to minimize the strain on the healthcare system this fall and winter.

On September 11, 2023, the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) took action to approve and authorize an updated
COVID-19 vaccine, formulated to more closely target currently circulating variants and to provide protection
against serious consequences of COVID-19, including hospitalization and death. With this new approval, the
bivalent COVID-19 vaccine will no longer be available. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the Advisory
Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) have also recommended the 2023-2024 (monovalent, XBB
containing) COVID-19 vaccines are approved for those 12 years or older, and Emergency Use Authorization is for
those six months to 11 years.

Some locations in Gallatin County have received the updated COVID-19 vaccine and are starting to administer
doses. The Gallatin City-County Health Department currently has appointments available on our website or call
for scheduling assistance.

“Flu, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses are showing up early and fast this fall,” states Lori Christenson,
Gallatin City-County Health Officer. “It’s very important for our communities to do what we can to protect
ourselves and others. Our goal remains to work alongside our community partners to ensure vaccine access
across our communities. Be sure to stay up to date on your COVID-19 and flu vaccines, stay home when you are
sick, wash your hands regularly and effectively, and follow masking recommendations, especially if you are sick.”

Since the Public Health Emergency ended, the sponsorship of free COVID-19 vaccines is no longer available.
However, most insurance companies, including Medicare and Medicaid, will cover the cost of the COVID-19
vaccines under preventative care. Adults who are uninsured or underinsured can receive their updated COVID-19
vaccines at no cost to them when they get their vaccine from the health department. The Gallatin City-County
Health Department is eligible for the CDC’s Bridge Access Program to provide vaccines at no cost. For kids who
are uninsured or underinsured, the Vaccines for Children program helps the health department provide vaccines
at no cost as well. If you have a valid insurance card, please bring it with you to your appointment.

The Gallatin City-County Health Department will be hosting a flu and COVID-19 vaccine clinic on Thursday,
October 19 at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, building 4 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. This clinic will have walk-in
availability for flu, and if vaccine supply remains at current levels, also for COVID-19. The number of COVID-19
doses on hand may be limited for those without a scheduled appointment. There is no waiting period between
getting your COVID-19 and flu vaccine.

The Gallatin City-County Health Department will also continue doing our weekly clinics at the health department
where you can sign up for both flu and COVID-19 vaccines. These clinics are by appointment only, you can find
more details on our website. You can also find flu vaccines at Bozeman Health’s website, or find flu or COVID-19
vaccines at vaccines.gov.

The best place to find the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, flu, and other communicable diseases is on our website, www.healthygallatin.org.

BOZEMAN – Bozeman City Commissioner I-Ho Pomeroy has resigned from her seat at the Commission. Her resignation letter mentioned her medical diagnosis and a desire ‘to let someone else serve this great city.’  

“Our thoughts are with Commissioner Pomeroy and her family as she continues her fight against cancer,” says Mayor Cyndy Andrus. “She remains a treasured member of our community, and we have been so fortunate to have had her serve on the Commission. We wish her the very best and thank her for her many years of hard work and service.”  

Pomeroy was first sworn in as a commissioner in 2014 and has served on the Commission for nearly ten years. She ran for election three times and won each election. Born in South Korea, Pomeroy was the first immigrant and person of color elected to the Commission.


Pomeroy is known by many in the community as a businesswoman and owner of I-Ho’s Korean Grill, which she started locally as a food cart in the ‘90s. I-Ho’s Grill continues to this day under the operation of her daughter and son-in-law, Jin-Ju and John Jahns. She is also well-known for philanthropic efforts and has fundraised for causes such as COVID-19, the Bridger Foothill Fire, and the war in Ukraine. 

Some of the major issues she has been passionate about and supported during her term on the commission include affordable housing, responsibly managing taxes, supporting local businesses, preparing for climate change, and improving mental health services. 

“I-Ho’s is a remarkable person. It takes dedication to move to a foreign country, learn the language, start a business, and run for office. She did all of that and so much more. She cares deeply about her community, and her voice will be missed” said Andrus.  

The process to fill a vacancy on the Commission caused by resignation is separate from local elections. In this case, the resignation will go into effect on Nov. 1. The Commission then has 30 days to appoint a person to fill the seat. The designated person will serve until the next municipal election, which will be held in November 2025. 

Interested residents can apply to fill the vacancy by writing an up to 1,000-word statement of interest and submitting it to agenda@bozeman.net by Nov. 16. Applicants must be registered voters whose principal residence is within the City of Bozeman to be eligible to serve. For more information, call the City Manager’s office at 406-582-2306.

As we get older, our needs evolve. Recognizing the changes in our elderly loved ones can sometimes be difficult. It’s essential to stay observant to ensure their well-being, safety, and happiness. The journey of aging, while natural, can sometimes bring challenges. Being proactive in spotting these challenges can make a world of difference. So, how do you determine when it might be time for extra assistance or care? Here are some of the top indicators.

Changes in Physical Appearance

A sudden or gradual change in appearance can be one of the first signs your senior relative needs either long or short-term senior care. Look for unkempt hair, untrimmed nails, or weight loss. These changes can hint at struggles with daily routines or underlying health issues.

Forgetfulness Beyond the Ordinary

While everyone can forget things now and then, significant memory lapses can be concerning. Forgetting to turn off appliances or missing multiple appointments might indicate a deeper cognitive issue.

Home and Environment Neglect

A previously tidy home becoming cluttered, or perishable foods left out can indicate a decrease in the ability to manage household tasks. Neglected plants or unpaid bills are other signs to look out for.

Social Withdrawal

If your loved one begins to avoid social interactions they once enjoyed or declines invitations frequently, it might hint at the emotional or physical challenges they’re facing.

Frequent Falls or Unsteady Movement

An increase in bruises or injuries, or a general unsteadiness, can point to mobility issues. If this is the case, it might be time to consider mobility aids or additional physical support.

A Decline in Personal Hygiene

Any noticeable decline in personal grooming habits, like irregular bathing or wearing the same clothes for several days, can be a sign. It might indicate difficulty in performing these tasks or a potential cognitive challenge.

Mood Fluctuations or Emotional Outbursts

Rapid mood changes, unexplained irritability, or increased signs of anxiety and depression shouldn’t be overlooked. Emotional well-being is as crucial as physical health.

Trouble Managing Medications

If you spot expired medications, unfilled prescriptions, or a mix-up in daily doses, it’s a clear sign that additional support is needed. Proper medication management is crucial for overall health.

Reduced Interest in Hobbies

A sudden lack of interest in previously loved activities, whether it’s reading, knitting, or gardening, can be a sign of physical or emotional struggles that may be worth investigating further.

Increased Unexplained Injuries

Finding burns or cuts that your loved one can’t explain can be concerning. It’s crucial to ascertain the cause and determine if there’s a pattern.

Difficulty Expressing Needs or Understanding Conversations

If your loved one consistently struggles to find the right words, frequently repeats themselves, or seems unable to follow or participate in conversations, it might hint at cognitive challenges. Misunderstandings, frustrations, or relying heavily on others to interpret their needs can indicate that it’s time for closer attention or support in their communication efforts.

Aging is a complex process, and every individual experiences it uniquely. By staying observant and understanding these indicators, you can ensure that your elderly loved one gets the care and support they deserve.

HELENA – Montana’s two-day, youth-only deer hunt is coming up Oct. 19 and 20, and general deer season opens Oct. 21. Now is a good time to consider signing up for the Apprentice Hunter Program. 

The apprentice hunter program allows people ages 10 and older to hunt as apprentices with a mentor for two seasons without completing a Hunter Education course. 

Fish, Wildlife & Parks highly recommends that interested people visit the website at fwp.mt.gov and read the packet on the Apprentice Hunter Program before seeking certification. The packet outlines guidelines for both the apprentice and the required mentor, including what apprentices can and cannot do, who can act as a mentor and how the certification process works. Reading up on it beforehand may prevent possible confusion and save people from making an extra trip. 

Some key details to note: 
• Certification can be done at an FWP office; forms can be downloaded ahead of time from the website. Certification can also be done by mailing the form to licensing, but the process takes longer. 
• A person must be certified before purchasing appropriate licenses, which will then show apprentice status.  
• There are limited license opportunities available for nonresidents. Nonresident youth (under age 18) may qualify for an over-the-counter general combination license that requires a separate form and payment to be completed at an FWP office or by mail. Nonresidents ages 18 or older do not qualify for an over-the-counter general combination license, but there are opportunities to purchase unlimited over-the-counter deer b and elk b licenses in certain areas of the state. 
• Licenses for an apprentice under 18 can be purchased by a parent or relative as long as they present a copy of the parent’s drivers license, along with a completed Apprentice Certification Form. 
• A youth need not accompany the adult to certify as an apprentice, but he or she does need to fill out paperwork and understand the guidelines.  
• The last four digits of the youth hunter’s social security number is required; be sure to have this information. 

An apprentice MUST: 
• Be at least 10 years old at the time of license purchase. 
• Fill out a certification form at an FWP office and pay a $5 certificate fee (forms available online at fwp.mt.gov). 
• Hunt with a certified mentor who is at least 21 and who has completed Hunter Education if born after Jan. 1, 1985. 
• Have the appropriate current Montana hunting licenses for the species being hunted; the licenses must show that he/she is Apprentice Hunter certified. 
• Stay within sight of the non-hunting mentor at all times. 
An apprentice MAY: 
• Be a resident or nonresident. 
• Obtain apprentice certification for no more than two license years before he or she must complete a hunter safety and education course. 
• Purchase general elk, general deer, deer b, elk b, turkey and upland bird licenses, depending on the age and residency status of the apprentice hunter as well as the availability of the specific license. 

An apprentice is NOT ELIGIBLE to: 
• Obtain a special bow and arrow license without first completing a Bowhunter Education course (must be 11 years old to take bow ed) and be 12 years old or turning 12 by January 16 of the upcoming year. 
• Obtain a resident hound training license for chasing mountain lion. 
• Participate in a hunting license or permit drawing with a limited quota. 
• Obtain any bighorn sheep, black bear, mountain lion or wolf license. 
• Obtain an elk license if under 15 years of age. 

A mentor MUST: 
• Be 21 or older. 
• If the apprentice is under 18, the mentor must be related to the apprentice by blood, adoption or marriage; or be the apprentice’s legal guardian or be designated by the apprentice’s legal guardian.  
• Have completed Hunter Education if born after Jan. 1, 1985. 
• Have a current Montana hunting license. 
• Complete the Apprentice Hunter Mentor form and carry the form in the field.  
• Agree to accompany and supervise the apprentice hunter and remain within sight of and direct voice contact with the apprentice at all times while in the field. 
• Confirm that the apprentice possesses the physical and psychological capacity to safely and ethically engage in hunting activities. 

Hey there, music lovers! Have you ever thought about becoming a tribute act to your favorite artist? Well, if you're a big fan of Ed Sheeran, you're in for a treat. In this article, we're going to show you how to step into the shoes of the famous singer himself and become a tribute act. It's going to be fun, exciting, and maybe even a little bit challenging, but we promise to keep it simple and easy to understand. So, let's dive right into the world of tribute acts and learn how to pay homage to Ed Sheeran!

Who is Ed Sheeran?

Before we dive into becoming like Ed Sheeran, let's learn about him. Ed Sheeran is a very popular singer and songwriter from the UK. He makes songs that stick in your head, writes lyrics that touch your heart, and plays the guitar like a wizard. People from all over the globe adore his music, and he has lots of fans. Ed Sheeran wasn't always a superstar. He began playing guitar and singing when he was just a kid. He practiced a lot and got really good at it. He even learned to write his own songs.

Ed Sheeran has made so many amazing songs that you've probably heard on the radio or at parties. Some of his super famous songs include "Shape of You," "Thinking Out Loud," and "Perfect." These songs are like magic spells because they make you feel happy and sometimes a little bit sad. Ed's music is so awesome that he travels around the world to sing it for people. He goes on big adventures and "tours." Imagine getting to sing your favorite songs in front of lots of people in different countries. That's what Ed does!

People love Ed Sheeran so much that they call themselves "Sheerios" – like superheroes, but for Ed. They sing along at his concerts, make fan art, and even dress like him sometimes. It's like a big fan club! Ed has won lots of awards for his music, like Grammys. That's like getting a gold star in music! It means he's really, really good at making songs that make people happy.

So, Ed Sheeran is like a musical superhero who makes amazing songs, travels the world, and has fans everywhere. Now, let's get inspired by him and make our own music!

Why Become a Tribute Act?

You might be thinking, "Why would anyone want to be like Ed Sheeran?" Well, there are some cool reasons. First, it's a way to say, "Hey, Ed Sheeran, I love your music!" Second, it's super fun to sing and play his songs for others. And third, it makes people happy and lets them enjoy their favorite tunes even more.

Following in the footsteps of Ed Sheeran, many artists have embarked on the journey of becoming a tribute act, capturing the essence of the original performer. But have you ever wondered what drives the immense popularity of these acts? Dive deep into the world of music and discover why tribute bands are popular, resonating with fans across generations.

Becoming a tribute act means you really, really like Ed Sheeran's songs. It's like having a big sign that says, "I'm a fan!" You get to dress up like him, sing like him, and play guitar like him. It's a way to say thanks for all the awesome music he makes.

Imagine being on a stage with lights all around and people cheering for you. That's what tribute acts do. They perform Ed's songs and make the crowd smile. It's like having a super fun party every time you perform.

When you sing Ed Sheeran's songs, you make people happy. They sing along and dance. It's like sharing a big bowl of ice cream with friends. Everyone's happy, and the world feels like a better place. Tribute acts help people get closer to the music they love. Not everyone can go to Ed Sheeran's concert, but they can see a tribute act performed. It's like having a piece of the concert magic right in your town.

Finding Your Inner Ed

To be a popular musician or tribute singer, you have to find your inner Ed Sheeran. That means getting to know his music, how he dresses, and how he acts on stage. Here's what you can do:

Listen and Watch: Start by listening to Ed Sheeran's songs and watching his shows. This helps you understand how he sings and plays guitar. You'll notice how he makes people happy with his music.

Copy His Voice: Try to sing like Ed Sheeran. Practice matching his voice and the way he sings his songs. It's like learning a fun new song.

Move Like Ed: Watch how Ed moves when he's on stage. Does he dance? Does he interact with the crowd? Try to do those things, too. It's like dancing at a party!

Dress the Part: Ed has a unique style. He often wears cool T-shirts, jeans, and sometimes a hoodie. Dressing like him helps you look the part of a tribute act.

Be Confident: Ed Sheeran is confident when he performs. Believe in yourself and your ability to make people happy with your music.

Practice, Practice, Practice

To be an awesome tribute act, you've got to practice a lot. Here's what you need to do:

Sing and Play: Keep practicing Ed Sheeran's songs until you can sing and play them perfectly. It's like solving a musical puzzle.

Mirror Time: Stand in front of a mirror while you practice. This helps you work on your cool moves and facial expressions. It's like your own private concert!

Audience Fun: Don't be shy! Practice in front of your friends and family. They're like your very first fans. It's great to see how they react to your performance.

Repeat, Repeat: Keep practicing, even if you make mistakes. Ed Sheeran had to practice a lot, too. The more you practice, the better you'll get.

Have Fun: Remember, it's not just about being perfect. It's also about having fun. Sing and play with all your heart, and the audience will love it!

Building Your Repertoire

To be a fantastic tribute act, you need a list of Ed Sheeran's songs to perform. Here's how to build it:

Hit Songs: Begin with Ed's biggest hits like "Shape of You," "Thinking Out Loud," and "Photograph." These songs are like musical treasures!

Practice Makes Perfect: Keep practising these songs until you can sing and play them really well. It's like learning to ride a bike – it gets easier with practice.

Add More: Once you feel comfy with those hits, you can add more Ed Sheeran songs to your list. Maybe try "Castle on the Hill" or "Galway Girl." The more songs you know, the more fun your show can be!

Ask Fans: You can even ask your friends or family which Ed Sheeran songs they love. It's like getting secret song tips from your biggest fans!

Stay Updated: Don't forget to keep up with Ed's new songs. He's always making fresh music, and fans love to hear the latest hits.

Conclusion

So there you have it, a simple guide to becoming a tribute act in the footsteps of Ed Sheeran. It's all about embracing your love for his music, practicing your skills, and connecting with your audience. Whether you're performing at local venues or dreaming of bigger stages, remember that being a tribute act is a fantastic way to pay homage to a great artist while sharing the joy of music with others. So pick up that guitar, start practicing, and let your inner Ed Sheeran shine!

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on two environmental assessments (EAs). For more information, including how to submit comments, click on the link provided or visit fwp.mt.gov/public-notices.

Clearwater Fishing Access Site EA

The Clearwater Crossing Fishing Access Site is in the Blackfoot drainage along the Clearwater River, 30 miles east of Bonner on Highway 200. It is managed by FWP and is a highly popular site. Clearwater Crossing is used heavily by the public for river access and camping. The site is 16 acres in size and includes a day use area, one latrine, a pioneered hand launch, six campsites, and a gravel boat ramp with an undefined parking area.

The original design of the site located the camps directly in the riparian area of the Clearwater River. This has caused erosion and a corresponding decrease in streamside vegetation. There is a more suitable location for these campsites within the FAS boundaries. The project proposal would move the six campsites to the east into the treed area. The previous location of the campsites should be revegetated to improve aesthetics and stream health. A defined parking area for users of the boat ramp would also improve site vegetation and reduce erosion.

Comments due Oct. 10.

Arrington Ranch LLC Private Pond License Review Draft EA

A private landowner is applying for a private fish pond license and proposes to stock rainbow trout in an unnamed private pond.

Comments due Oct. 13.

Laughlin Holdings Ranch LLC Pond License Review Draft EA

A private landowner is applying for a Private Fish Pond License and proposes to stock rainbow trout in an unnamed private pond.

Comments due Oct. 13.

Double C Ranch Holding LLC Private Pond License Review Draft EA

A private landowner is applying for a private fish pond license and proposes to stock westslope cutthroat trout in an unnamed private pond.

Comments due Oct. 13.

Translocation of Marten to the Bridger, Snowy, and Crazy mountains Draft EA

FWP proposes to re-establish or augment self-sustaining marten populations in portions of their historic range in central Montana. This project’s objective is to increase species diversity and facilitate marten range expansion back into the mountains of central Montana.

Comments due Oct. 14.

Lander Dam Fish Stocking Draft Checklist EA

FWP is proposing stocking fish in Lander Dam, a private pond near Baker in Fallon County. Public access to fishing in eastern Montana is limited, and private ponds stocked by FWP through our regional ponds program increases public fishing opportunity. Due to the abundance of interest in fishing, and the current lack of public access, recreational opportunities are cherished.

A draft EA checklist has been prepared and is available for comment. 

Comments due Oct. 15.

On Bozeman’s south side, homes in Montana’s first co-housing community are ready and residents are moving in. “It’s been a long process, but we’re excited that our vision is becoming reality,” said co-founder, Kathleen Owkes.

The development began in 2019 when Kathleen and Mark Owkes joined forces with Erik Bonnett to create a community of privately owned homes centered around shared common areas.  They envisioned spontaneous interactions and mutual support among neighbors who share a dedication to small-footprint, environmentally focused living.

Erik Bonnet was the lead architect. “The project is socially and environmentally groundbreaking. A net-zero community of this size is truly innovative, and it’s the first cohousing community in the northern Mountain West. The first of both in the region, in fact. That’s worth celebrating.”

Megan and Chad Welborn became members knowing that their daughter will have safe unstructured playtime with other kids in the community. “We’ve already developed personal relationships with our neighbors.  We know we’ll be there for each other and look out for all of our kids.”

Bozeman Cohousing provides a home base for Peter and Nancy Bryant’s retirement in Bozeman where their daughter and family live.  A future community- shared woodworking shop is of special interest to Peter. Nancy is excited about her involvement in designing and installing a landscape of native plants.

Community members will have the option to prepare and share community meals in the Common House, participate in spontaneous and planned activities with their neighbors, or just relax and enjoy the views of Frog Rock, Bridger Ridge, and Mt Ellis. 

While opportunities for social engagement abound, members’ privately-owned homes provide a space for pursuing one’s own interests and way of life.  Bozeman Co-housing homes are like any others in that way.  “I really like the community interactions and spontaneous activities. And I like having my own private home to come back to,” said Erika Share.  “It’s not just a neighborhood for extroverts. It’s a neighborhood for everyone.”

To learn more about Bozeman Cohousing and stay informed about a future open house, visit bozemancohousing.com 

My resumé of Montana travels is strongest around Bozeman, and in southwest Montana in general. Been there, done that, in the mountains, valleys, canyons, and rivers. It is also extensive to the west and north, camping and exploring from here to the Idaho and Canadian borders. It is respectable along the I-90 corridor east and south to Wyoming. In addition, I have made a few trips to Glendive, Glasgow, Fort Peck, and Fort Union. Even driven parts of the Highline. But in the vast middle of the state, east of Lewistown, west of Miles City, north of Billings, and south of Malta, not so much. There are entire counties, whole grids on the atlas that I’ve not yet explored. Earlier this year, discovering some more of that area became a project to be undertaken.

By May, certainly June, I am ready to get outside. But from hard experience, I know that the mountains are still in winter mode. Postholing trails deep in snow wearing shorts is interesting but not necessarily fun. Better to head to the sunny plains. Our plan was to drive to Lewistown, gather some information, then head north into the Missouri Breaks. We thought that the American Prairie Visitor Center would be a good place to get some ideas. I got online to check their hours and found that Ken Burns was going to be there the next day. He would be giving a talk about his latest project, The American Buffalo.

Wow! The most renowned documentary filmmaker in the country, coming to Montana for a free presentation. Our plan had been to spend the day ‘summerizing’ the camper, packing and provisioning, then leave in the morning. Instead, my wife Ruth made hotel reservations in Lewistown, we jumped in the car, and left within an hour.

Ken Burns has been producing documentary films since the 1980s. His American history topics are as varied as the Civil War, Baseball, Jazz, and the National Parks. His technique of still photographs and vintage film interspersed with experts commentating on the subjects has become familiar and iconic in our culture. Burns’ list of accolades and awards covers an entire page on Wikipedia. He would be appearing at the American Prairie Center. We were on our way.

We had spent time in Lewistown when our nephew played in a state baseball tournament there a few years ago. I had heard the town praised as; “What Bozeman used to be.” I could see no connection at all. Bozeman is first and last a college town, and an outpost on the Interstate 90 cultural corridor that runs west to Missoula and then to the coast. Also, Bozeman serves as a gateway to Yellowstone and Big Sky, and many other recreational activities. Lewistown, on the other hand, is very isolated, the largest town in that vast area mentioned earlier, central Montana. It serves as a hub for myriad agricultural pursuits in several counties. It has a small town feel with a busy vibe.

As we approached Lewistown from the west, we noticed that the US 87/ MT 200 highways were lined with farm implements, and we passed farm-related businesses that make the community an agricultural hub. On the right, the Kiwanis Park is great for camping, and for views of the Big Snowy Range to the south. A jog in the road brings one down the hill onto Main Street (kinda like Bozeman). We were booked into the Calvert Hotel, a historic building just off downtown. Originally built as a dorm for high school students from the farms and ranches in the countryside, the Calvert has been a hotel for close to one hundred years. We enjoyed the old feel combined with modern amenities. Lewistown has a great trail system and a number of parks with towering cottonwoods. We explored them during our quick stay but first walked along Main Street, browsing the shops.

The American Prairie Visitor Center is located in a renovated stone building on Main Street. This seems to fit in with the community more than would a new facility somewhere on the outskirts. We toured the center and confirmed the times for the Burns presentation the following day. American Prairie’s mission is to restore an area of land to a previous ecosystem that existed for thousands of years. The plan involves purchasing and leasing land to link up the already extensive preserves of the Missouri Breaks National Monument and the CMR Wildlife Refuge with other public land. A large part of the proposal is the reintroduction of wild buffalo to the land. This specific portion of their goal, along with the overall project, has caused controversy with local ranchers and others. An initial issue of the possibility of disease spreading from the bison to cattle seems to have been solved by monitoring and vaccination of the herd, plus the absence of any of these problems in other areas where buffalo and cattle have cohabited in commercial operations. Those we spoke to at the center were very aware of the impact of their vision. They possessed an attitude of cooperation rather than coercion. They have introduced programs to help ranchers, rather than hinder their already difficult profession. Most importantly, they spoke of their jobs on the land; though they were in the building to prepare for the presentation, they longed to be at work outside.

That evening we walked the streets and trails of Lewistown. It began to rain, a series of spring showers that continued into the night, and intermittently throughout the following day. I realized that my original plan to camp would have been impossible. The roads up in the Breaks are gumbo. At times, people have been stuck for days. In town was the place to be. In the morning, the Calvert provided a delicious breakfast buffet in their basement dining room, always a plus for me.

Ken Burns was accompanied by his longtime collaborator, Julie Dunfey, and by Dayton Duncan. In the early 1980s, Duncan had traveled the Lewis and Clark Trail in a van, and had written the book Out West. I had been interested in the Expedition in college and had written a couple of term papers on that subject. Reading Duncan’s book had brought that interest back for me years later, and it has never waned. I felt that he was a kindred spirit. He had begun working with Ken Burns on the Lewis and Clark film; the two of them had written and collaborated on many other projects.

When we arrived at the visitor center, there were less than two hundred people gathered. There were several showings of a trailer for the film that lasted about ten minutes. It featured familiar Burns themes. There were majestic scenery shots of the prairie and the Missouri country, and film of the buffalo herds on the land. Intimate talks from experts in the field including Native Americans and wildlife scientists followed. Afterward, we all filed into the Clyde Aspevig Event Center, which displays a huge painting of the prairie by this world famous artist, a Montana native. Aspevig had also come for the presentation.

On the dais, Ken, Julie, and Dayton were seated, and spoke informally. Ken stated that the story of the American Buffalo comprised three eras; first, the historic development of the species and the interaction of the buffalo and the Indian until the demise of both in the 1880s; second, the task undertaken by varied persons to save the buffalo from extinction, and, lastly, the future. His film covers the first two periods. The future, he said, is up to the public and organizations like American Prairie. There was a humorous dialogue between Dayton Duncan and Burns as Duncan explained why the film used the word buffalo rather than the official scientific name, bison. He spoke at length, and Burns wryly admonished his too long, too technical monologue. It was fun to listen to their interaction.

The Ken Burns documentary film, The American Buffalo airs on PBS on October 16th, 2023. Viewers will benefit from his unique combination of entertainment and education. The film can also provide a forum for evaluating the mission of American Prairie. One of their objectives is complete public access to all of these lands.

After the presentation, I did something I rarely do. I approached Dayton Duncan, introduced myself and praised his book for the positive effect it had for me. We shook hands and I turned to go. Ken Burns was a foot away, I smiled and walked away; bothering one person a day is my limit. We left Lewistown that afternoon, enjoying the rolling green look of the spring prairie as we drove home to Bozeman. I was already planning a trip up into the Missouri Breaks when the rains passed.