On Monday, November 28, 2022, at 7:55 p.m., the West Yellowstone Police Department Dispatch Center received a 911 call from two snowmobilers who had abandoned their stuck snowmobile near Corrette Ridge and were in need of assistance. One of the snowmobilers was having difficulty breathing as they attempted to walk back to West Yellowstone. The snowmobilers were reported to have minimal survival gear and only one flashlight.

Volunteers from the Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue West Yellowstone Section and Hebgen Basin Fire Department located the snowmobilers in good health 6.45 miles southwest of West Yellowstone.  The snowmobilers were medically assessed and then transported back to West Yellowstone.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind everyone planning to enjoy the outdoors that survival gear is an integral part of any successful outing. Winter weather and temperatures can be demanding and change suddenly. Flashlight, fire starter, reliable means of communication, food and water are all some of the basic necessities to carry with you on your winter adventure.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

Bozeman, Montana, is growing quicker than most other small cities in the US today. It has a growth rate of around 2.8%, and according to the World Population Review, has 56,495 inhabitants.
 
Perhaps one of the reasons that the city keeps growing so fast is the number of tourists that pass through. In 2021, there were around 2 million arrivals and departures from Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport. No doubt some of those tourists decided to come back permanently, and who could blame them?

Bozeman has much to offer to any tourist, and there are a bunch of outdoor activities to engage in. One popular sport in the area is disc golf. Although not incredibly new, disc golf is still very much up-and-coming but Bozeman boasts not 1 but 6 courses for players to enjoy.
 
However, disc golf isn’t the only reason to visit Bozeman. Below is a brief article on disc golf, and 5 reasons why you should be playing in Bozeman.


 
Where can you play disc golf in Bozeman?

You will discover quickly that disc golf can be played almost anywhere. Any outdoor space such as a playing field or a park can be used for disc golf. Unlike regular golf courses, disc golf doesn’t need permanent holes for playing as it uses baskets and these can be moved.
 
The inventor of the modern frisbee, Ed Headrick, is also largely held up to be the founder of disc golf. The sport started to gain traction in the 1960s and through the 1970s. Today there are hundreds of thousands of individuals playing across the globe.
 
While you don’t need more than just a suitable open area for playing, there are a number of specially designed disc golf courses in Bozeman.
 
Disc golf courses in Bozeman are as follows:

• Rose Park
• Battle Ridge Canyon
• Monforton School
• Elk Grove
• Sandalwood
 
There is also one more disc golf course at Zoot Wild Plains, but this is available to Zoot employees only.
 
What equipment should you take to your Bozeman disc golf course?

The only thing you really need to take to a disc golf course is your favorite disc, and perhaps some spares. It is pretty much inevitable that at some point you will lose a disc golf disc just as golfers lose balls regularly.
 
Some players prefer heavier discs, and with practice, you will soon discover your preference. Understable disc golf drivers allow for a straighter flight before fade happens, and will give a little extra difference. Aside from the discs, you should perhaps give some thought to how you dress.
 
Disc golf is far more relaxed than regular golf and players can dress more casually. However, wearing dirty or ripped clothing isn’t really on. Tennis shoes, a clean t-shirt or polo, plus shorts or cargo shorts, would work fine.
 
Other equipment you could consider is as follows:
 
• Scorecard or disc golf mobile app
• Golf disc retriever
• Disc golf rangefinder
• Carrying bag
 
You should consider headwear and sunscreen for protection. Bug spray can come in handy too, and carrying a bottle of water is recommended. In July, Bozeman will hit average temperatures between 80 and 90 degrees, so water and UV protection are essential.
 
5 reasons why you should play disc golf in Bozeman

Disc golf may be growing in popularity, but why pick Bozeman to play? Well, the city is already a popular tourist destination, so if you are planning a break, it could be the ideal place to combine your favorite sport with the other positives about Bozeman.
 
Here are five possible reasons to visit Bozeman, and play disc golf there.
 
It’s close to Yellowstone National Park
Bozeman is just 1 hour and 15 minutes from Yellowstone National Park. Many visitors to the city combine their stay with a visit to this national park, and plenty of others use their time to go that bit further to Glacier National Park too.
 
There are many outdoor activities to enjoy besides disc golf
Bozeman is surrounded by incredible nature - more on that below - and this has helped create a place that is renowned for its outdoor activities.
 
Locals and visitors alike can join in any of the following pastimes depending on the time of year and their particular interests.
 
• Fishing
• Hiking
• Rafting
• Biking
• Kayaking
• Horse riding
• Skiing
 
The latter activity is popular with the inhabitants of Bozeman and surrounding areas and attracts many visitors too. Mountains north and west of Yellowstone enjoy a large amount of snowfall each year making Bozeman a popular skiing destination.
 
Surrounded by incredible scenery
Bozeman is close to the Rocky Mountains and other areas of stunning natural beauty. The fly-fishing is said to be world-class, and the town itself has been called the most liveable place in the US.
 
The reason so many people partake in the outdoor activities listed above is because of the scenery that they enjoy. The air is cleaner in Montana than in most other states, and this helps to make disc golf even more enjoyable.
 
Disc golf is one of the better ways to relieve stress. When playing you will be walking, joining in with others, and getting outdoors. You will forget any worries you have and feel more relaxed. All of this combines to lower stress and help with physical health as well as give you a mental boost.
 
It’s nearly always sunny in Bozeman
The city gets to boast around 300 or so days of sunshine every year. Perfect for enjoying disc golf, and after your game you can go on an ice cream tour in Bozeman and watch the sun go down from Story Hills viewpoint.
 
Bozeman is a great camping destination
Within a 1 hour radius of Bozeman are plenty of camping grounds to choose from. This includes Bozeman Hot Springs Campground with its own natural attraction. If you enjoy camping then Bozeman makes the perfect spot to stay at night while hitting the disc golf courses during the day.
 
Do disc golf players expect the same etiquette as seen on regular golf courses?
There is a definite etiquette surrounding disc golf, just not quite as stuffy as you’d find on private golf courses.
 
One rule is to make sure you leave no trace behind. Pick up your litter and don’t break branches or damage fauna on the course. Other parts of disc golf etiquette include respecting other players, no anti-social behavior, and playing within the lines.
 
But you won’t find strict dress codes or officials on disc golf courses. It is expected that players understand how to behave and show respect so that everyone can enjoy the game. This means beginners as well as professionals.
 
Summary
Bozeman has several disc golf courses to choose from, but so do many other places in the states. There are over thousands of disc golf courses in the US now, so why pick Bozeman?
 
Well, as shown above, the outdoor possibilities in and around the city are to be envied. Anyone who enjoys getting outside to play disc golf is likely to appreciate at least one of the other pastimes that can be enjoyed in Bozeman. If not, well there is always that ice cream tour.

BIG SKY, MT  — Today's opening day was a historic one for many reasons: the largest terrain opening in Big Sky Resort history, deep powder turns through six inches of fresh snow, and resort teams working hard to deliver the goods a day earlier than scheduled. 

Big Sky Resort made the decision to open early after more than five feet of natural snow blanketed the mountain this fall, combined with reliably cold temperatures and record-breaking snowmaking efforts. 

Mid-day, skiers and riders got another special surprise when the Ramcharger 8 chairlift opened to the public, previously scheduled for opening on Thursday, November 24. 

With 2,000+ acres of skiable terrain and 6 lifts open, plus 6" of fresh snow blanketing the pristine mountain, the Big Sky Resort 2022-23 opening day has been one to remember. 

HELENA – Anyone wanting to salvage a road-killed deer, elk, moose are antelope must obtain a Vehicle-Killed Wildlife Salvage Permit. These are available at no cost and must be obtained within 24 hours of the time a person takes an animal into their possession. Permits are available either through law enforcement officers on the scene of collisions or online on the FWP website.

As a reminder, any salvaged animal must be removed in its entirety from the roadway by the permittee. The animal may be field dressed before it leaves the area but entrails or any other parts of the animal carcass must be removed from site to prevent attracting scavengers and predators.

Other things to keep in mind if salvaging a vehicle-killer animal:

• Road-killed animals may not be tagged and possessed with carcass tags issued for the purpose of hunting.
• Any person who is picking up an animal to be salvaged must comply with all highway rules and regulations while removing the animal. Vehicles shall be parked off the roadway and out of the line of traffic. The permittee acknowledges that collecting vehicle-killed animals on state highways is inherently dangerous and is undertaken at the permitee’s own risk.
• A person may not kill an injured or wounded animal that they encounter for the purpose of salvage. A law enforcement officer may, however, when on the scene of a collision, kill an animal injured in the collision and that animal may be taken for salvage.
• Meat rendered from salvaged animals must be used for human consumption. It may not be used for bait or other purposes.
• Meat rendered from salvaged animals may not be sold.
• Any meat that is unfit for human consumption or unusable animal parts must be disposed of at a legal disposal site. It is unlawful to dispose of animal carcasses or parts in or upon any highway, road, street, or alley or upon public property. It is also illegal to dispose carcasses or parts within 200 yards of a public highway, road street or alley or public property

For more information, visit FWP's website fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/vehiclekilledsalvagepermit.

A knee replacement can be a life-changing surgery. It can improve your quality of life and allow you to do the things you love without pain. However, it’s also a major surgery with a long recovery process. About six weeks after surgery, most people can return to normal activities.

The main reason why people get a knee replacement is to relieve pain. The surgery involves replacing the damaged joint with an artificial one. This can provide significant pain relief and allow you to move more easily.

How To Speed Up Recovery After Knee Replacement

Like any surgery, the recovery period varies from individual to individual. For instance, younger adults have a shorter recovery time, while recovery time may be longer for the elderly with additional health issues. There are, however, a few things that you can do to help ensure a speedy and successful recovery: 

1 Start Physical Therapy Early

Physical therapy is an integral part of the recovery process. It helps improve the range of motion and strengthens the muscles around the joint. Starting physical therapy early can help speed up your overall recovery.

Most knee replacement patients start physical therapy within the first week after surgery. Depending on your situation, you may do this as an inpatient or outpatient.

• Follow all physical therapy instructions. This may include exercises, using heat or ice, and electrical stimulation.

• Use Pain Medication as Directed. You will likely be prescribed pain medication after your surgery. It’s essential to take this medication to help manage pain and discomfort. Don’t wait until the pain is severe before taking medication. This can make it harder to control. Also, follow the instructions on how often to take the medication.

• Keep Your Incision Clean and Dry. It’s essential to keep your incision clean and dry to prevent infection. You may need to use a special soap provided by your surgeon.

2 Follow Your Surgeon’s Orders

After surgery, your surgeon will give you specific instructions on what you can and cannot do. It’s essential to follow these orders closely to avoid complications and delay healing. They may seem like an extra hassle, but they’re there for a reason.
People who have knee replacement surgery are prohibited from certain activities, such as:

• Bending the knee past a 90-degree angle
• Crossing your legs at the knees
• Sitting in a low chair or on the floor

Your surgeon will likely give you a list of other activities to avoid. It’s essential to follow these instructions for at least six weeks after surgery.

3 Get Plenty of Rest

Your body needs time to heal after surgery. This means getting plenty of rest. You may need to take it easy for the first few weeks or months. Avoid activities that put too much stress on your joints.

As much as you want to return to your regular routine, giving your body the time it needs to heal properly is essential. This will help avoid complications and ensure a speedy recovery.

4 Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is vital for overall health, but it can also help recover knee replacement. A healthy diet helps the body heal and gives you the energy you need through physical therapy and other activities.

Foods rich in vitamins and minerals, such as fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, are essential for healing. During recovery, you should also avoid processed foods, sugary drinks, and alcohol.

Try incorporating these foods into your diet:

• Fruits and vegetables: Citrus fruits, leafy greens, berries, tomatoes, sweet potatoes
• Lean protein: Chicken, fish, tofu, beans, lentils
• Healthy fats: Avocados, nuts, seeds, olive oil
• Whole grains: Quinoa, oats, brown rice

5 Use Medical Devices As Directed
You may be given a medical device, such as a cane, walker, or crutches, to use during your recovery. These devices help take pressure off the joint and prevent falls. It’s essential to use them as directed.

Most people will need to use a walker or crutches for at least six weeks after surgery. You may need to use them for longer if you have other health problems.

Recovery from knee replacement surgery takes time, but there are things you can do to speed up the process. Follow your surgeon’s orders, start physical therapy early, and eat a healthy diet. With these tips, you can ensure a successful recovery.

Although some things may feel like restrictions, they are intended to help your knee heal properly. Remember to focus on the big picture: a complete and successful recovery.

What Should You Do After A Knee Replacement?
Taking plenty of rest and self-care are the two primary things you should do post-knee replacement surgery. Although your movements are limited, and you might have to give up on some activities for a while, you must take care of your new knee.

To facilitate a speedy recovery, follow all instructions given to you. About two weeks after the surgery, you will have a follow-up appointment with your doctor to check your progress. You must attend all follow-up appointments.

During these appointments, your doctor will:

• Check the incision site for signs of infection
• Evaluate how well the new joint is working
• Adjust pain medication as needed
• Discuss any physical therapy progress
• Assess your range of motion

If everything goes according to plan, you should be able to return to most of your regular activities within three to six months. Some patients may take up to a year before they feel “back to normal.”

Final Words
You want to recover quickly and safely after your knee replacement surgery. Taking the time to rest, heal, and follow your doctor’s orders is the best way.

With a bit of patience and effort, you will be back on your feet in no time. In the meantime, focus on taking care of yourself and enjoying the simple things in life.

Are you in the market for a new car? If so, you're probably trying to save up as much money as possible to make the purchase. It's important to be smart about your spending and put aside money each month so that you can afford the car of your dreams. In this blog post, we will discuss some tips for saving money so that you can buy your next car without breaking the bank.

Calculate how much money you'll need to save for your next car purchase

If you're in the market for a new car, it's important to start by calculating how much money you'll need to save. You have to consider more than just the price of the car. You will need funds for taxes, title, registration, inspection, insurance, extended car warranty, and gas. The first step is to figure out what type of car you want. Whether you're looking for a luxurious SUV or a simple sedan, there's a car out there that's perfect for you.  

Once you've decided on the type of car you want, it's time to start looking at prices. Check out websites like Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds to get an idea of what different cars are selling for.  

Then, use a calculator to figure out how much money you'll need to save each month in order to reach your goal. Finally, set up a savings account and start putting away money! With a little planning and perseverance, you'll be behind the wheel of your dream car in no time.

Decide on a budget and stick to it - even if that means cutting back
on other expenses

Anyone who has ever gone on a shopping spree knows the allure of spending money. However, it's important to remember that money doesn't grow on trees. In order to stay financially healthy, it's important to set a budget and stick to it - even if that means making some sacrifices.  

For example, instead of going out to eat every night, you might cook at home more often. Or, instead of buying the latest designer clothes, you might shop at second-hand stores or wait for sales. By being mindful of your spending, you can make sure that your hard-earned money goes where you really need it. And that can make all the difference in the world.

Make a plan for how you'll save money each month, including setting aside money specifically for your car fund

It's always a good idea to have a plan for your finances. After all, when it comes to money, you can never be too prepared. One way to get your finances in order is to set aside money each month specifically for your car fund. This way, you'll be sure to have the money you need when it comes time to buy a new car.  

To do this, you can set up a simple budget and allocate a certain amount of money towards your car fund each month. Then, all you have to do is stick to your budget and watch your savings grow! Not only will this help you get a new car sooner, but it will also help you stay on top of your finances. 

Research different types of cars and what the average cost is in your area

Cars are a big purchase, and it's important to do your research before you buy. There are a lot of different factors to consider, from the type of car to the average cost in your area. When you're looking at different types of cars, it's important to consider your needs and budget.  

If you have a large family, you'll want to look for a car with plenty of space. If you're on a tight budget, you'll want to look for a more economical option. Once you've narrowed down your options, it's time to start looking at prices.  

The average cost of a car will vary depending on your location and the type of car you're looking for. In general, compact cars are cheaper than SUVs, and luxury cars are more expensive than economy cars.  

However, there are always exceptions to these rules. Once you've done your research and found the perfect car for you, it's time to start shopping around for the best deal. Comparing prices from different dealerships is the best way to make sure you're getting the best possible price on your new car.

Compare interest rates at local banks and credit unions to find the best deal
on a car loan

When it comes to getting a car loan, it pays to shop around. Interest rates can vary significantly from one lender to the next, so it's important to compare offers from multiple banks and credit unions before making a decision.  

By taking the time to find the best deal, you could save yourself hundreds or even thousands of dollars in interest charges over the life of the loan. And that's money that could be better spent on gasoline, car insurance, or upgrades for your new ride.  

So don't settle for the first offer you get. Shop around and make sure you're getting the best deal possible on your car loan.

Keep an eye out for used cars that are in great condition and have
been well-maintained

Used cars are a great way to save money on your next vehicle purchase. However, it is important to carefully select a used car in order to get the best value for your money. Look for cars that are in great condition and have been well-maintained.  

Avoid cars with excessive wear and tear, or those that have been in accidents. Also, be sure to check the vehicle history report to ensure that the car has not been recalled or had any major mechanical issues. With a little bit of research, you can find a used car that will provide years of trouble-free driving.

No one likes it when drains don’t drain, toilets don’t flush, sinks overflow, and general plumbing problems rear their ugly heads in the house. However, instead of rushing to call the nearest plumber, why not try to fix the problem yourself? Here are some of the common plumbing fixes that you can carry out yourself, as well as when to know when to call for that plumber!

A Clogged Drain

This one might be a no-brainer because with the number of times something clogs in your house you don’t want to spend money on a plumber every single time. You can easily unclog the drain using simple household materials like hot water, baking soda and vinegar, and drain cleaners.

There are other tools and materials you can use from your local hardware store and they will get you a faster result than waiting on an expert.

Repairing Leaks

Not only do leaky pipes and faucets waste water, but they can also be an annoyance and the catalyst for a huge mess! Thankfully, repairing most faucets only requires a wrench and a light source, and making your pipes leakproof is pretty simple too.

Often the hardest part is finding sneakier leaks that don’t leave pools of water or constant dripping sounds as clues to their location. But once you find them, most of the time you either need to tighten the pipe or replace the seal around the joint.

Stopping A Running Toilet

If you’ve flushed your toilet but the toilet simply won’t quit, then you need to work on how to fix that before your water bill goes through the roof! You will need to take your toilet apart and use some tools, but it shouldn’t be too massive of a procedure. 

Often, it comes down to problems with the flapper and the chain connected to it, so you need to either adjust the chain or completely replace the flapper. With a trip to the hardware store and maybe a guide, you will be able to make the plumbing fixes you need to get your toilet to flush fully.

Plumbing Emergencies

However, there are some plumbing emergencies that will depend upon you knowing when to call an expert. Often, if you don’t think you can do the fix without harming your home or causing more problems than the fix will solve, you need to call in a plumber.

Because they will have the know-how to start tackling plumbing issues promptly before they can damage your home and your piping.

Additionally, if something happens and you don’t have the know-how to fix it, such as an overflowing sink or a complete lack of hot water in your home then you need to call a plumber. Many services offer same-day service so they can solve your small problem and get your plumbing working again.

Whenever it comes to calling an expert vs doing it yourself, you need to trust your gut. If you think you can handle the small problem yourself, why not give it a try?

However, if the problem is too big for you and you don’t feel confident in your ability to handle it, then you need to call for an expert.

After all, you don’t want to have a problem that can be very easy to solve, to be made much worse by your messing up. That will cost you and your plumber a lot more in both time and money, and no one wants that!

BOZEMAN — The carbon fiber material used to make aircraft lightweight and strong could soon get a major makeover as a result of a Montana State University project that’s rapidly catching the attention of industry.

For the past four years, a team of MSU scientists, students and collaborators has pioneered an innovative way of making “stretch-broken” carbon fibers that are more easily formable to the complex shapes of aircraft and could significantly cut manufacturing costs. The project is funded by a total of $25.8 million in contracts from the U.S. Army.

“We’ve invested a lot into this and now we’re approaching a major milestone where we’ll demonstrate actual manufacturing at a small scale before transferring the technology to industry,” said Douglas Cairns, the lead MSU researcher on the project. “We’re very excited about the potential impact.”

Traditional carbon fiber composite — made by embedding the long fibers, which are stronger than steel, in a hardening resin — is the gold standard in the aerospace industry because it’s exceptionally strong and durable for its weight, explained Cairns. But the fibers are so stiff that forming them into the tight curves of an airplane wing, for instance, requires complex and expensive machinery. It also often requires a scaffold-like metal substructure that’s prone to corrosion, costing the U.S. military billions of dollars each year in maintenance and repairs.

By contrast, MSU’s new carbon fiber material — created by precisely stretching the material so that some of the fibers break at natural weak points — is about eight times more formable while being roughly the same strength, according to Cairns. That means the material can be shaped with simpler equipment and without metal substructure.

"Because it’s so much easier to form, we're conservatively estimating that we can lower the manufacturing costs by a factor of four,” said Cairns, the Lysle A. Wood Distinguished Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering in MSU’s Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. “That’s a huge deal.”

Although the concept of breaking carbon fibers to improve their formability has been around for decades, previous methods such as randomly cutting the material proved to significantly compromise strength, said Cairns, who has worked in aerospace materials for nearly 30 years. The idea of stretch-breaking also isn’t new, but until now nobody had figured out a way to consistently and efficiently do it in a way that could be scaled for industry. “The concept is easy, but the control of it is very difficult," Cairns said.

Working with nearly two dozen Montana companies to help with design and machining, the MSU team developed a new kind of stretch-breaking tool called the Bobcat Head. As a flat strand containing thousands of individual carbon fibers is rapidly passed through a series of rollers, precise force is applied to break the fibers where there are nicks and other imperfections. Only about 2% of the fibers are broken across a given area, Cairns noted.

The researchers then studied the properties of the resulting material. Roberta Amendola, associate professor in the mechanical and industrial engineering department, led a team of fellow faculty and students to test how easily the stretch-broken fibers could be bent into complex shapes and set with resin.

“The material keeps surprising us,” Amendola said. “What we’ve confirmed is that it’s as strong as material made with continuous fibers but is very easy to form. It’s a remarkable result.”

The next step, according to Cairns, is to scale up the stretch-breaking machine for a pilot demonstration of how it could be used in actual manufacturing, which would pave the way for licensing the technology to aerospace companies that produce both military and civilian aircraft. There’s the potential for the material to start being used industrially in the next few years, he said.

In the meantime, the work is having an educational impact at MSU, with more than eight undergraduates and a dozen graduate students having contributed to the project, Cairns noted. Other MSU faculty on the project are professor Dilpreet Bajwa and associate professor Cecily Ryan, both in the mechanical and industrial engineering department.

Federal appropriations for the $25.8 million in Army contracts for the project were supported by Montana Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines.

“The scientists and engineers at Montana State are consistently at the cutting edge of innovation, and I’m proud to see some of Montana’s brightest minds helping to keep our nation safe through this partnership with the United States Army,” Sen. Tester said. “As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I was happy to help secure funding for this partnership and am confident that MSU’s breakthrough carbon fibers will deliver for our armed services.”

Cairns said the project is already attracting attention from advanced material supply and aerospace companies that have come to the Bozeman campus to see the material for themselves and are eager for material samples, which the MSU team is working toward providing. "When we talk with aerospace companies, their eyes light up,” he said. “They recognize how much this could impact their design and manufacturing."