BOZEMAN — A program based at Montana State University is providing resources for relatives raising children across the state of Montana.

The Montana Kinship Navigator Program at MSU offers kinship caregivers support, education and access to resources to assist them in raising the child or children in their care. The goal is to help caregivers live happier, healthier lives so that they can, in turn, raise children who know emotional and physical safety, excel in school and social situations and are prepared to take on life challenges successfully.

The program was founded in 2002 under the name Grandparents Raising Grandchildren. It became the Montana Kinship Navigator Program in 2018 after receiving federal funds for its work. The program is housed in MSU Extension and the MSU College of Education, Health and Human Development.

A kinship family is a family that has taken in a child that is not biologically their own, which could happen for a number of reasons, according to Brianna Routh, MSU Extension food and nutrition specialist and assistant professor in MSU’s Department of Food Systems, Nutrition and Kinesiology. Grandparents raising their grandchildren is one example of a common kinship family. Other kinship caregivers could be aunts, uncles or siblings of the child. In addition, someone who is not biologically related, but who has strong social and emotional connections to a child, may provide kinship care in Montana. 

“Anybody beyond a parent who’s caring for a minor is eligible to use the resources this program provides,” she said. “In Montana, even a close family friend can be the caregiver of a child.”

Routh said there are an estimated 9,000 children in kinship care across the state, according to data provided by The Annie E. Casey Foundation. She noted that at any given time, the program is in contact with between 200 and 300 kinship caregivers. She said those figures mean that there are many more caregivers who could use the program’s resources.

“This is a small but mighty program,” Routh said. “It has a lot of potential for making huge impacts.”

Kinship families may face many challenges, said Dan Koltz, assistant professor in the Department of Human Development and Community Health. Navigating the legal aspects of custody issues is one of the most common issues he sees kinship families go through in Montana.

“Until you go through a formal adoption process, you don’t have a lot of legal rights as a caregiver,” Koltz said.

Economic challenges are also common for kinship families, he said.

“Kinship caregivers may have to consider whether to put money toward rent and utilities, groceries or new school supplies,” Koltz said. “We’re really seeing high levels of economic challenges, including a growing need for food security.”

Even knowing what resources are out there or what kinship caregivers may themselves need can be difficult, Routh said.

“Often, kinship caregiving is an unexpected, surprising situation,” Routh said. “Kinship caregivers might not have had to use some of these services before, so they may not be familiar with how a certain resource works. It’s hard to know what you don’t know in this situation.”

The Montana Kinship Navigator Program supports kinship families in a variety of ways, including peer support groups in seven Montana communities; case management services; and general information and resources for caregivers about topics such as navigating legal issues, enrolling children in school and options around discipline. The program also provides financial help in some circumstances for needs such as groceries, car repairs and heating bills. It also helps connect children and kinship caregivers with other resources, such as mental health services and legal services. According to their needs, kinship families may access some or all of the services.

Routh said that case management is a more recent addition to the program. Being able to have a case manager connect families with resources related to food, clothing and legal services has the potential to make a significant difference, Routh said.

“When we can take some of that burden off caregivers, we think we’re going to get better outcomes,” she said.

Another recent addition to the Montana Kinship Navigator Program is a comfort case program, where every child is given a comfort case backpack. The pack comes with a stuffed animal, school supplies, a T-shirt, pajamas and more.

“We know that when children are moving from a household to kinship caregiving, they often don’t have a suitcase or backpack of their own,” Koltz said. “We want to provide them a backpack so that they have something that is their own to put their personal belongings in.”

Funding for the Montana Kinship Navigator Program comes from the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, which applies for federal funding in cooperation with the program under the Families First Prevention Services Act. The program is also partnering with a similar program in Wyoming to conduct a study of services provided in order to meet the evidence-based standards the allocation requires. Additional funding comes from the Brookdale Foundation, which works to enhance the quality of life of America’s elderly. Additional support is provided by MSU Extension.

The work of the Montana Kinship Navigator Program is important because the children and their kinship families the program serves are the current and next generation of Montanans, Routh said.

“If we don’t support them and care for and care about their well-being, then we’re only hurting ourselves,” Routh said.

“I see the benefits that when a caregiver is healthy, the child they’re caring for is better off because of that,” Koltz said.

Questions about the Montana Kinship Navigator Program may be asked by calling 833-445-3395 or emailing mtknp@montana.edu.

WEST YELLOWSTONE – A grizzly bear with a history of conflict with people was euthanized Saturday after breaking into a house near West Yellowstone.

Early Saturday morning, a homeowner reported a bear with a cub broke through a kitchen window of an occupied home and removed a container of dog food from inside the house.

Later that evening, staff from Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks and local law enforcement captured the cub, and, with authorization from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, shot the adult grizzly due to an immediate public safety threat from the bear’s food-conditioned behavior.

The adult grizzly was a 10-year-old female that had been captured in 2017 for research purposes. Through genetic analysis and other identifying factors, the bear was confirmed to be involved in a fatal attack on a woman near West Yellowstone in July. The bear was also involved in an encounter in Idaho that injured a person near Henrys Lake State Park in 2020. While both incidents were assessed to be defensive responses by the bear, multiple efforts to trap and remove the bear were made after the fatal attack in July due to the incident’s proximity to residences, campgrounds and a high-use OHV trail system. These efforts were unsuccessful.

The cub, a 46-pound male, is being held at FWP’s wildlife rehabilitation center in Helena while arrangements are made to transfer the cub to a zoo in the coming weeks.

Be bear aware

Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year.

This time of year is when bears are active for longer periods as they consume more food in preparation for hibernation. This period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities.

Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with such conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters:

• Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.
• Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel in groups.
• Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears.
• Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency.
• Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas.
• Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana.

People who hunt in places that have or may have grizzly bears—which includes areas of Montana west of Billings—should take special precautions:

• Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.
• Look for bear sign and be cautious around creeks and areas with limited visibility.
• Hunt with a group of people. Making localized noise can help alert bears to your presence.
• Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears.
• Bring the equipment and people needed to help field dress game and remove the meat from the kill site as soon as possible.
• If you need to leave part of the meat in the field during retrieval, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards.
• Upon your return, observe the meat with binoculars. Make noise while approaching the meat. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call FWP.

Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Management authority for grizzlies rests with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, working closely in Montana with FWP, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, Wildlife Services, and Native American tribes. This collaboration happens through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

For more information, resources and education events on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware.

Stepping into the world of law is an exhilarating journey, often marked by rigorous academic pursuits and the determination to make a mark. However, theoretical knowledge, while essential, only paints half the picture.

To truly understand and excel in this arena, hands-on experience is paramount. This is where the significance of internships comes into play.

Applying for a legal intern position can seem daunting, given the competition and the weight of expectations. But with the right guidance, it becomes an opportunity – a chance to immerse oneself in the real-world applications of law, network with professionals, and lay a strong foundation for a prosperous legal career.

Understanding Different Types of Legal Internships

Legal internships are as diverse as the field of law itself. They offer a window into various environments where law is practiced, each providing unique experiences.

1. Law Firms: These are often the first type that comes to mind. There's a distinction between BigLaw firms, which are large, multinational entities dealing with high-profile cases and transactions, and boutique firms, which are smaller and often specialize in specific areas of law. Interning at a law firm gives you insight into private practice and the dynamics of client relationships.

2. In-house Counsel at Corporations: These lawyers work within companies, guiding them through legal challenges. Interning here lets you see the intersection of business and law, where you'll deal more with contracts, employment issues, and regulatory compliance.

3. Non-profits and Public Interest Organizations: Ideal for those driven by social causes, these internships allow you to work on issues like human rights, environmental law, or public health. The work can be advocacy-based, offering a mix of litigation and policy.

4. Government: This encompasses local, state, and federal positions. Whether it's in a district attorney's office or a regulatory agency, these internships provide insights into the workings of public law.

5. Judiciary: Interning with judges, often termed as 'clerkships', gives you a firsthand look at the judicial process, from research to drafting opinions.

Preparing Your Application Material

Entering the legal world requires showcasing not only your academic prowess but also your passion and potential contribution to the field. Here's how to effectively prepare your application material:

Crafting an Effective Legal Resume:
     • Relevant Coursework and Grades: Law firms and institutions often look for specific courses or specializations. Highlight top grades and any honors received.
     • Extracurricular Activities: Participation in Moot court, legal journals, or debate societies demonstrate your active involvement and commitment to the field.

Writing a Compelling Cover Letter:
      • Tailoring to the Position: Avoid generic letters. Research the organization and explain why you're a good fit for that specific role.
     • Personal Connection: If the law has touched your life or you're particularly passionate about a subject, briefly share this story. It can make your application memorable.

Asking for Recommendation Letters:
     • Choosing the Right References: Opt for professors or professionals who know you well, preferably those in the legal field.
     • Requesting Effectively: When asking for a recommendation, provide the referee with ample time, your resume, and any specifics you'd like them to include.

Researching Potential Employers

In the vast legal landscape, understanding your potential employer is paramount. A well-researched approach demonstrates not only genuine interest but also your commitment to becoming a valuable team member.

Start by delving into the firm or organization's history, notable cases, and their area of specialization. Attend networking events or webinars they host to gain insights into their work culture and priorities.

Engage with alumni or current employees on platforms like LinkedIn to gather firsthand experiences. Such groundwork ensures you're not walking into interviews blind and allows you to tailor your responses, showcasing your alignment with their mission and values.

Mastering the Interview Process

Navigating a legal interview demands a blend of showcasing your academic achievements and presenting your interpersonal skills. Preparation is key.

Familiarize yourself with common legal interview questions, focusing on scenarios that test your analytical and ethical reasoning. However, it's not just about rehearsed answers.

In an era of virtual interactions, ensure your tech setup is reliable, and practice maintaining engaging eye contact and clear speech. Soft skills, often overlooked, play a pivotal role.

Your ability to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and demonstrate a genuine passion for the field can leave a lasting impression, setting the foundation for a successful entry into the legal arena.

Ethics and Professionalism

In the legal profession, integrity is paramount. Navigating the complex waters of law requires an unwavering commitment to ethical considerations.

Beyond understanding confidentiality agreements, it's crucial to internalize the broader implications of every action, whether it's social media interactions or email communication. During internships, maintain a professional demeanor at all times, dressing appropriately and respecting hierarchy.

Ensure that you remain unbiased and refrain from conflicts of interest. Embracing ethical standards isn't just about following rules; it's about fostering trust and establishing yourself as a reliable and honorable member of the legal community.

Making the Most of Your Internship

An internship is more than just a stepping stone; it's a golden opportunity to immerse yourself in the legal world. To truly benefit, actively seek feedback, using it as a tool for growth.

Embrace a proactive mindset, volunteering for diverse assignments to stretch your capabilities. Establish mentor-mentee relationships; senior professionals can offer guidance, shaping your career trajectory.

Network extensively within the organization, as connections made now can open doors later. Remember, it's not the duration but the quality of your engagement that counts.

Dive in with enthusiasm, absorb as much as you can, and let this experience be a solid foundation for your future legal endeavors.

Transitioning from Internship to Career

Internships often serve as the bridge between academic learning and a full-fledged legal career. Leveraging your internship experience is key when making this transition.

Reflect on the skills and knowledge you've acquired, emphasizing them during job interviews. Maintain relationships with mentors and colleagues from your internship, as they can provide references or even job leads.

When discussing your internship, focus on specific accomplishments and scenarios where you added value. Use the experience to assess your career aspirations, determining which areas of law resonate most with you.

This introspection, combined with the practical experience of an internship, paves the way for a more informed and strategic entry into the legal workforce.

Conclusion

Embarking on a journey into the legal world can be as challenging as it is rewarding. Internships act as invaluable milestones, offering glimpses into various facets of the profession.

From understanding the intricacies of different legal environments to cultivating essential soft skills and building a robust network, these experiences lay the groundwork for future success. 

As you navigate this path, remember to remain adaptable, ethical, and continuously eager to learn. The legal arena is vast and ever-evolving, and armed with the right experiences and mindset, you'll be well-equipped to make a meaningful impact and craft a fulfilling career.

HELENA – Effective today, hoot owl restrictions are lifted on all sections of the Madison River and Sun River. These were the last fishing restrictions that were still in effect in Montana.

Hoot owl fishing restrictions prohibit fishing each day between 2 p.m. and midnight.

Angling restrictions are implemented based on several considerations: stream flow, water temperatures, angling pressure and other angling restrictions in the area that may divert use to waterways where circumstances are increasing stress on the fishery.

For current information on restrictions and closures, go to fwp.mt.gov/news/current-closures-restrictions/waterbody-closures.

BOZEMAN – An angler killed a grizzly bear in self-defense this week in the Tom Miner Basin.

The encounter happened on Aug. 30 on private land along Tom Miner Creek. Two anglers were walking through dense vegetation when they were charged by a grizzly bear. One of the anglers shot and killed the bear. No people were injured.

The bear’s behavior was likely defensive in the surprise, close encounter. The bear was an adult male grizzly. This incident is still under investigation.

Be bear aware

Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year.

This time of year is when bears are active for longer periods as they consume more food in preparation for hibernation. This period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities.

Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters:

• Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.
• Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel in groups.
• Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears.
• Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency.
• If you encounter a bear, never approach it. Leave the area when it is safe to do so.
• Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas.
• Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana.

People who hunt in places that have or may have grizzly bears—which includes areas of Montana west of Billings—should take special precautions:

• Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately.
• Look for bear sign and be cautious around creeks and areas with limited visibility.
• Hunt with a group of people. Making localized noise can alert bears to your presence.
• Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears.
• Bring the equipment and people needed to help field dress game and remove the meat from the kill site as soon as possible.
• If you need to leave part of the meat in the field during processing, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards.
• Upon your return, observe the meat with binoculars. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call FWP.

Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Management authority for grizzlies rests with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, working closely in Montana with FWP, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, Wildlife Services, and Native American tribes. This collaboration happens through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee.

For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware.

On August 31^st, 2023, at 9:36 pm, Gallatin County Dispatch received a 911 call from two hikers near Baldy Mountain in the Bridger Range. According to the caller, they had started at Fairy Lake early in the day, and one of the hikers had become extremely exhausted and both hikers were out of food and water. The party was unable to hike down, and with darkness setting in they requested search and rescue.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue (GCSSAR) volunteers from the Valley Section, as well as a helicopter from Billings Clinic MedFlight responded to the request. A hasty team hiked in from the M Trailhead and was able to access the party on foot where they assessed the patient and treated them for exhaustion and cold exposure. A second ground team used side by sides from Bridger Bowl, then hiked South to bring additional gear to the patient. The ground team was ultimately able to locate a landing zone for Billings MedFlight near the hikers. The patient was then assessed by a flight nurse, however due to weather, Billings MedFlight was unable to transport the patient. The party was assisted down the mountain by GCSSAR personnel throughout the night, but ultimately at daylight, they were flown off the mountain with the GCSSAR Heli Team.

Sheriff Springer would like to remind back country enthusiasts that even a day hike can go wrong quickly. Having enough gear to spend the night if necessary, as well as appropriate gear for the conditions and a way to communicate can greatly increase your chances when things go bad. Sheriff Springer would also like to thank the Valley Section, Heli Team, Comms Team, and Billings MedFlight for their exceptional work on a long and difficult rescue.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

All are encouraged to give input by joining or hosting a Community Chat from Sept. 11-17
 
BOZEMAN —The City of Bozeman is gathering input to develop draft goals and recommendations for the Belonging in Bozeman Equity & Inclusion Plan. All are invited to host a Community Chat with friends, colleagues, neighbors, and housemates on a topic reflected in the plan’s eight vision statements. These topics include Housing, Transportation, Health & Wellbeing, Education, Childcare & Youth Programming, Economic Security, Community Safety & Civic Health, and Community Resiliency.

 
These conversations unite residents from across our region to share their thoughts, insights, and experiences about what we can do together to make our community a place where everyone can thrive.
 
Community Engagement Coordinator Dani Hess says, “The purpose of these Community Chats is really to build community, spark conversation, and allow residents to engage in this plan in a way that is convenient for them.”
 
Input from hosts and participants will ensure that the goals and recommendations of the plan are aligned with the lived experiences and expertise of community members themselves.
 
Those who would like to host a conversation should register by Sept. 8 to host a Community Chat during the week of Sept. 11-17. Registered hosts will receive a Community Chat Toolkit with tips and guidance on hosting an informed and productive conversation. Community Chats can take place across the Gallatin Valley in spaces that are accessible and comfortable for hosts and participants – this can include dinner tables, park pavilions, workplaces, and other public or private gathering places.

 
Register to host a Community Chat by Sept. 8 at bit.ly/CC23-reg and learn more about the Belonging in Bozeman Plan at engage.bozeman.net/belonging.

BOZEMAN —The Bozeman Police Department is proud to sponsor the fifteenth session of the popular Citizens’ Police Academy. This free class will meet every Thursday evening from 6 to 9 p.m. over the course of eight weeks. The academy starts Sept. 14, 2023, and will run through Nov. 2, 2023.

“Have you ever wondered what it would be like to be a police officer with the Bozeman Police Department? Do you often question why the Bozeman Police Officers do what they do or wonder what challenges the community faces? We aim to answer these questions and more at our Citizens’ Police Academy and encourage all to apply quickly as this event fills up fast,” Officer Scott Vongehr stated.

One of the main objectives of the Citizens’ Police Academy is to have fun while fostering stronger communication between the citizens of Bozeman and the police department. It is also to enhance citizen understanding and awareness of the role of the Bozeman Police Department.  

This will be a hands-on training with an emphasis on student involvement. Classes about the department and criminal justice system will be offered to the students so there can be a better understanding of the services the Bozeman Police Department provides to the community.  Students will learn about the different divisions, such as patrol, detective, and support services. 

Those interested in attending or those with questions can contact Community Resource Officer Scott Vongehr at svongehr@bozeman.net or at 582-2969. Applications can be found online at https://www.bozeman.net/departments/police/community-involvement/citizens-police-academy.

BIG SKY, MT  — The eagle(s) have landed.  

Following a 37-day journey from Olten, Switzerland, both of the Lone Peak Tram cabins have arrived safely in Big Sky. The cabins were greeted in traditional Big Sky fashion with a local bull moose temporarily stopping traffic as they made their way to their final destination.  

The 6,615-pound cabins arrived by boat in Port Hueneme, California, before being loaded on a truck for delivery to Big Sky.  

The cabins will travel up to 300 feet off the ground when installed on the haul ropes, and each include 12 seats and a glass floor panel for viewing during the summer.  

Montana Law Enforcement planning increased patrols in the Bozeman area over the holiday weekend.  Residents encouraged to plan for a sober ride home.

·         Local law enforcement and the Montana Highway Patrol are increasing their presence and patrols during the Labor Day weekend
·         Montana has the highest share of alcohol-related traffic deaths in the U.S. at 45%. In 2021, 63% of all fatalities were the result of impaired driving
·         To ensure the safety of communities across Montana, law enforcement encourages residents to make a plan to get a sober ride home before they start drinking and celebrating during the Labor Day weekend
·         Labor Day marks the end of the “100 Deadliest Days,” the period where most traffic fatalities occur in Montana and nationwide
 
BOZEMAN – As Labor Day weekend approaches, Bozeman area law enforcement agencies and the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) are encouraging Montanans to plan a sober ride home before they celebrate. Labor Day weekend is the final three days of the “100 Deadliest Days,” the period where most traffic fatalities occur. MHP will be increasing patrols across the state and making DUI arrests to ensure every Montanan gets home safely this holiday weekend. MHP and the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) are committed to reducing fatalities and severe injuries on Montana’s roadways.

According to MDT, if drivers have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher, they could receive a DUI charge and other serious consequences, including having their driver’s license revoked, being required to take mandatory classes, and receiving possible jail time, as well as up to $10,000 in fines and legal fees.

 
We want everyone to enjoy the holiday weekend, so make sure you plan for a sober ride home.  Labor Day weekend is full of travel and end-of-summer get-togethers. To make sure we’re all able to have fun safely, start your weekend by making a plan. Whether you’re hanging by the river or going to a BBQ, always use a sober ride.

 
MHP is on high alert during the holiday weekend because of Montana’s sobering statistics:
·         Montana has the highest fatality rates in the nation for the number of deaths caused by impaired drivers per vehicle mile traveled
·         The state has the highest share of alcohol-related traffic deaths at 45% (2021)
·         63% of all traffic fatalities in Montana are the result of impaired driving (2021)
·         1,268 people were killed in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver from 2012-2021
 
By designating a sober driver or using a rideshare or taxi service, you’re making our community safer. Make sure you celebrate responsibly as you gather with friends and family for the end of summer. Together we can keep our community safe.
 
Montana Department of Transportation — Vision Zero
This is a Vision Zero message from the Montana Department of Transportation. This and other enforcement and educational campaigns are strategies to reach Vision Zero — zero deaths and zero serious injuries on Montana roadways. For more information about Vision Zero, contact Janet Kenny, Montana Department of Transportation, at 406-444-7417 or jakenny@mt.gov.