HELENA – Beginning tomorrow and running through June 30, nonresident hunters can register for the Alternate’s List on MyFWP. Every year, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks gets several unused nonresident combination licenses (big game, general elk and general deer combination licenses) returned by customers. FWP resells these returned licenses through the Alternate’s List. 

The Alternate’s List is an option for nonresident hunters to show their interest in purchasing one of these returned licenses. A hunter can register to purchase their choice of only one nonresident combination license per year (big game, general elk or general deer combination licenses). The list is randomized in mid-July. The hunter assigned the lowest number on the list will be contacted by email starting in August to finalize the purchase of the license. If that hunter declines the license, the next hunter on the list is contacted. This process continues until the returned NR combo licenses are eventually exhausted.

Payment for the license fee is not required to sign up for the Alternate’s List. If your randomized position falls at the top of the list, you will be contacted by email with instructions on how to complete the purchase of the license. Being on this list or obtaining a license from this list has no effect on your existing preference points.

MyFWP also allows you to check where your position lands on this Alternate’s List after the randomization process occurs in mid-July. Please be sure to check back then.

The odds of getting a license from these lists vary greatly from year to year. Refunds and issuance may occur at any time after mid-July, but availability of these licenses increase between early fall and the opening of general hunting season in late October. 

For more information, call 406-444-2950 or visit fwp.mt.gov/hunting/licensedraw/alternatesList.html.

HELENA – Recent results from an ongoing water quality study on the Clark Fork River show that pollution is more prevalent than initially thought.

Preliminary results of the new water studies show the presence of toxic compounds, such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dioxins and furans, which are compounds associated with industrial activities, including the paper industry, but are also from some natural sources like forest fires.

In 2023 biologists with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks sampled for toxins on the Clark Fork River from Silver Bow Creek, near Butte, to Cabinet Gorge Reservoir on the Idaho border, including samples from the Clark Fork’s major tributaries – the Flathead, Bitterroot and Blackfoot rivers.

The compounds discovered are more widespread than previously thought. This includes their presence in headwater areas and also downstream of the Flathead River, which was previously the lower boundary of a fish consumption advisory issued in 2020.

FWP staff collected both water and fish samples looking for pollutants.

Depending on the results of the fish samples, FWP will work with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services to evaluate a further need for an advisory on fish consumption. Currently, there is a fish consumption advisory on a 148-mile stretch of the mainstem of the Clark Fork River from the Bitterroot to the Clark Fork’s confluence with the Flathead River.

“Dioxins, furans and PCBs are stored in the fat and muscle of fish” said FWP fisheries biologist David Schmetterling. “Although they do pose risks for developmental problems, reproductive issues, and even endocrine system problems in fish, the main issue is with human consumption of the fish.”

To date, the recent findings have not been correlated with any particular site or source of contamination, and continued monitoring and investigation will help identify potential sources of the pollution. The current studies follow up on earlier studies of toxic compounds in the river system. For more than a century, water quality concerns in the Clark Fork River focused on the effects of heavy metals from hard-rock mining. After Smurfit-Stone closed its paper mill near Frenchtown in 2010, FWP biologists conducted preliminary surveys to determine if any contaminants associated with the pulping and paper industry were found in fish tissue downstream of the mill. This led to fish consumption advisories for northern pike and rainbow trout.

In 2018 and 2019, FWP worked with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to collect fish tissue samples from a larger area, and results led to a wider fish-consumption advisory.

The current studies are funded through a grant from the EPA. FWP worked with several partners to secure the grant of more than $221,000. Partners include the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, Trout Unlimited, Missoula County Health Department, the Clark Fork Coalition, and the Montana Department of Justice Natural Resource Damage Program.

For more information, contact FWP Fisheries Pollution Biologist Trevor Selch at 406-444-5686 or tselch@mt.gov.

On Friday, May 10, the Gallatin County Elections Office mailed approximately 56,500 for the June 4 primary election to active registered absentee voters in Gallatin County. Ballots will begin arriving in mailboxes in the following days. 

Four ballots will be included in each envelope. Voters will have a choice to vote either a Democratic, Republican, Libertarian or Green party ballot this upcoming primary election. Voters must choose ONE party ballot to vote and then return just that ballot. Detailed instructions will be provided with ballots – please read them carefully! 

Absentee ballots must be returned by 8 PM on Election Day, Tuesday June 4. They may be returned in the Gallatin County Elections Office during normal business hours, or on Election Day at the Elections Office or any polling place between 7 AM and 8 PM. If you’re returning your ballot by mail, please return in mail no later than May 24 to ensure it arrives on time. Ballots postmarked on or before Election Day but received after Election Day cannot be accepted.  

We urge all absentee voters to promptly return their ballots. With the sheer volume of ballots we handle, this enables us to get to work processing ballots sooner. That helps streamline Election Day operations, including the swift release of results. 

Polling places for in-person voting will also be open on Election Day. Those locations in Gallatin County are:
 

• Bridger Canyon Fire Station – 8081 Bridger Canyon Rd. 
• Gallatin County Fairgrounds – 901 N. Black Ave. in Bozeman 
• Hope Lutheran Church – 5152 W. Graf St. in Bozeman 
• MSU Shroyer Gym – 1 Bobcat Cir. In Bozeman 
• Zoot Enterprises – 555 Zoot Enterprises Ln in Four Corners 
• Povah Community Center – 10 Geyser St. in West Yellowstone 
• Big Sky Water & Sewer District Office – 561 Little Coyote Rd. in Big Sky 
• Gallatin Gateway Community Center – 145 Mill St. in Gallatin Gateway 
• Belgrade Special Events Center – 220 Spooner Rd. in Belgrade
• River Rock Community Center – 101 River Rock Rd. in Belgrade
• Three Forks High School – 212 E. Neal St. in Three Forks 
• Manhattan Christian School – 8000 Churchill Rd. in Churchill 
• Manhattan High School – 200 W. Fulton Ave. in Manhattan 

Due to recent redistricting, you may now be in a different precinct or have a new polling place since the last election. Please visit www.MyVoterPageMT.com to double check your assigned location. 

Late registration for this election began this week. From now through Election Day, new registrations or updates to voter registration must be made IN PERSON at the Gallatin County Elections Office, located on the second floor of the Gallatin County Courthouse (311 W. Main St., Bozeman). 

Check your voter registration status and information at www.MyVoterPageMT.com.  

For questions or more information, contact the Gallatin County Elections Office at 406-582-3060 or gallatin.elections@gallatin.mt.gov, or visit us online at www.GallatinVotes.com.  

The United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recently updated their recommendations for breast cancer screenings. The updated guidance recommends starting screening mammograms at age 40 and continuing screening every other year through age 74. The Gallatin City-County Health Department helps eligible residents in Gallatin, Park, and Sweet Grass Counties access free, timely breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic treatment through the Montana Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program.

For those interested in more information on the Montana Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening Program in Gallatin, Park, or Sweet Grass County, please call 406-548-7084 to speak with our Health Promotion Specialist, or visit https://www.healthygallatin.org/community-health/cancer-screening/

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A blank wall is a canvas. How does it make you feel?

Art speaks volumes.

Indeed, wall art has the uncanny ability to transform the ambiance of a space. It doesn’t just fill a void; it creates a completely new sensory experience.

The Psychology Behind Wall Art and Color Theory

Wall art acts as a visual stimulant that can evoke different emotions based on its color palette and subject matter. Its power lies in its ability to transform a room's psychological landscape.

Colors wield a silent language of their own—vivid reds can energize, while tranquil blues can soothe. Introducing wall art into a space is akin to introducing a symphony of colors designed to alter your mood and perception.

Harnessing the "warm" and "cool" tones inherent in artworks allows homeowners to curate an atmosphere that's either invigorating or calming.

Colors Influence on Mood and Space Perception

The hues we choose in our wall art don't merely decorate; they elicit emotions, impacting our mood significantly. Warm tones can invigorate, while cool shades often soothe.

To truly transform a room’s ambiance, consider the psychological effects of colors. Red can energize, blue may calm, and green often balances, effecting profound changes in spatial perception.

Beyond setting mood, colors play tricks with our perception of space. Lighter, cooler colors can make a room seem more expansive and airy. Darker shades add coziness but may visually shrink the space.

Choosing the Right Artwork for Specific Emotions

Art is more than a mere aesthetic choice; it's a conduit of emotion and narrative that can transform your living space.

Here's how different styles of wall art can cater to specific emotional needs:

• Serene Landscapes: Choose serene landscapes with soft blues and greens to instill a sense of tranquility.
• Abstract Dynamics: Go for abstract pieces with bold strokes and vibrant hues to usher in energy and inspiration.
• Classic Portraiture: To evoke a sense of elegance and history, select classic portraiture with muted tones.
• Minimalist Black and White: Utilize minimalist black and white artwork to create a modern, sophisticated, and focused ambiance.
• Cultural Tapestries: Incorporate pieces with cultural significance to add a layer of interest and education to your environment.

Transforming Rooms with Strategic Wall Art Placement

Wall art possesses a unique ability to recalibrate the ambiance of a space, serving as visual punctuation. Just as a well-placed comma or period can alter the meaning of a sentence, the thoughtful placement of a painting or photograph can subtly shift the dynamics of a room.

To achieve the transformative effect of art, perceive your walls as a curatorial canvas. Imagine each wall as a chapter in the story of your home. A large, bold piece can act as a focal point, commanding attention, while a series of smaller works might create a rhythm, leading the eye across the space. 

In this context, the interplay between the artwork and its surrounding elements—the color of the walls, the lighting, even the furniture—contributes to the nuanced ambiance that can shift the very mood of a room.

For those looking to enhance a more private area, consider the serene effect of wall decor for bedroom spaces. Here, art can create a peaceful retreat, helping to relax and soothe the mind after a long day.

The Art of Positioning

Strategic placement is pivotal for the maximum impact of wall art in a home.

Here's a guide to effectively positioning your wall art:

• Eye Level Is Key: Hang artwork so that its center is about 57 to 60 inches from the floor, aligning with the average eye level.
• Harmonize with Furniture: Aim for art pieces to be hung over furniture, maintaining a proportionate space of about 6 to 8 inches above the top.
• Consider the Wall Size: Choose art that resonates with the wall area—larger walls can handle larger pieces, while smaller pieces can fill narrow spaces.
• Gallery Walls for Stories: Assemble gallery walls by grouping smaller pieces together to tell a cohesive visual story.
• Lighting Enhances Art: Proper lighting can accentuate artwork position pieces where they can be illuminated, either naturally or with focused lighting.

Scale and Proportion

To nail this balance, first, assess the expanse of your wall. Is it wide, narrow, or an expansive canvas awaiting artistic interjection? Art should fill a wall much like a tailored garment fits the body—not too snug, yet with enough presence to make a statement. The rule of thumb is for art to fill two-thirds to three-fourths of the wall space.

Consider the room's volume, too; high ceilings and open spaces might require more substantial art to create focal points that anchor the room. It's a delicate balance between presence and overwhelm.

In essence, size up your space and let artwork dimensions follow suit. Properly scaled art can transform a wall from a mere structure to an aesthetic anchor.

Interaction of Light and Artwork

The way light interacts with a piece can dramatically alter its appearance and the ambiance of a room. It can amplify a work's visual impact and draw attention to textures, colors, and nuances that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Adjusting the angle and intensity of light sources is key. By varying the direction and softness of the light cast upon art, you can highlight specific features or create a mood. Spotlights can create drama, while ambient lighting might bring out the softness of a watercolor.

Strategic lighting acts as a curatorial tool. Advances in lighting technology, such as LED track lighting and smart bulbs capable of adjusting brightness and color temperature, grant even the casual art enthusiast the ability to showcase their pieces in the best possible light. 

Wall Art as a Reflection of Personal Style

Whether your preference leans toward the avant-garde, classic masterpieces, or eclectic indie pieces, these selections are a window into your soul—offering insights into what moves you, provokes thought, or brings you joy. Like a silent yet eloquent storyteller, every piece you hang is an extension of your personal style narrative unfolding.

Art becomes the subtext in the language of your home's decor; subtle yet profound—it assists in articulating the unspoken ethos of your habitat.

Gallery Walls: Telling a Story Through Multiple Pieces.

This choreographed display is an exposition of your journey, curated over time. Each component, a snapshot of a moment or feeling, contributes to this visual symphony.

When designed thoughtfully, gallery walls are a testament to the complexity and layers of your personal saga. They have the unique ability to depict a tapestry of memories, articulate your aspirations, and reflect the multidimensional aspects of your experiences.

Crafting a coherent and striking gallery wall demands an eye for balance and harmony within the diversity of frames, dimensions, mediums, and subject matter. It can serve as an ever-evolving canvas for your life's narrative, where you become both the curator and the storyteller.

Budget-Friendly Wall Art Ideas

The creative expression need not break the bank; indeed, the allure of wall art is its remarkable ability to transcend budget constraints. Crafting your own masterpieces or unearthing thrift store finds can yield unique and personalized wall accents, bringing rooms to life without a lavish expense.

For those with a penchant for the eclectic, consider a "mixed media approach." Collating a collection of fabric swatches, interesting pages from old books, or even exotic plates can create an unusual and captivating display.

Don't underestimate the transformative power of arranging family photographs with aesthetic frames that showcase your life's narrative. Searching for these can be as much an adventure as the final artistic statement they make on your walls.

DIY Projects for Creating Unique Pieces

Enhancing your home’s decor can be a delightful endeavor with a few creative DIY techniques. Start by transforming old wooden window frames into rustic art displays or elegant picture frames. This method not only adds a vintage charm but also repurposes materials in a stylish way. 

For a dynamic addition, consider stretching vibrant or patterned fabrics over canvas frames, creating striking wall art that becomes the focal point of any room. 

Another option is the art of decoupage, which involves applying intricate paper cut-outs and glue to craft layered compositions, adding depth and personal flair to your walls. 

If you prefer a more structured approach to art, consider a painting by numbers kit, an ideal choice for both beginners and experienced crafters. This provides a step-by-step path to creating beautiful, handcrafted art, perfect for enhancing any space with a touch of handmade elegance.

Tips on Where to Find Affordable Art in Bozeman

Inexpensive artwork often hides in plain sight, and Bozeman's thrift shops are no exception. Strolling through these altruistic emporiums, one may uncover vintage prints, quirky sculptures, and even hand-painted canvases.

If you're pining for original artwork that doesn't strain your wallet, keep an eye on the Bozeman Art Walks. This event offers a splendid opportunity to meet local artists, admire their work up close, and snag pieces at artist-friendly prices before their renown—and value—soar.

Aside from the bounty of fresh produce and artisanal goods, Bozeman's Farmer's Market is also a venue where up-and-coming artists showcase their work. Landscape paintings, handcrafted jewelry, and pottery can often be found among the stalls.

The Montana State University's School of Art frequently orchestrates sales featuring student work. These events present an exceptional chance to purchase contemporary art at a fair price while supporting the artists of tomorrow. 

The Impact of Local Art on Home Decor

Imbuing your space with local art creates a dialogue between your home and its cultural surroundings, crafting a distinctive and resonant atmosphere. By integrating pieces from local creators, you anchor your interior landscape to the community, yielding a sense of belonging and authenticity. 

This connection enhances the aesthetic value and promotes a synergy where the art complements your decor and transforms it—engendering a narrative that is deeply personal and layered with local lore and craft.

Bozeman Artists and Their Influence on Local Decor

Nestled within the Gallatin Valley, Bozeman's artists are weaving a rich tapestry into the fabrics of homely interiors. Through their evocative creations, these artisans breathe life into spaces that might otherwise be deemed commonplace.

Since a vibrant art scene emerged, Bozeman creatives have influenced home decor by instilling a sense of place through their artwork. Stunning portrayals of the Bridger Mountains, whimsical interpretations of local wildlife, and abstract representations of the Big Sky Country have all found their way into the hearts and homes of residents.

Within the cozy confines of a Bozeman abode, artworks may range from hand-thrown pottery that epitomizes the ruggedness of the Rockies to finely crafted woodwork embodying the natural beauty of Montana's forests. 

In essence, the Bozeman art scene serves as a linchpin in the evolving narrative of interior design, fiercely coloring the local home decor styles with strokes of community and individuality.

Conclusion

Wall art acts as an aesthetic anchor in home design by enveloping spaces with textural diversity and commanding color. It influences mood, reflects personal journeys, and underpins a home's ambiance, ensuring no two homes feel exactly alike. Intriguingly, it can be as impactful in dictating the tone of home life as the very architecture itself.

It speaks volumes without uttering a single word - it can uplift, provoke thought, and convey depth in ways that mere words cannot match. With judicious selection, these pieces act as irreplaceable companions to the life unfolding within walls.

HELENA – Want to do something special for you mom this Mother’s Day? Take her fishing. No fishing licenses will be required Mother’s Day weekend, May 11 and 12. Whether she’s an experienced angler or new to the sport, it’s a great opportunity to get your gal outside.

While a fishing license is not needed, a Conservation License is still required to access most state lands including fishing access sites, wildlife management areas and wildlife habitat protection areas (WHPA).   

In 2021, Gov. Greg Gianforte signed into law Senate Bill 61, which makes it free for anyone, resident and nonresident, to fish in Montana on Mother’s Day. Montanans have enjoyed free fishing on Father’s Day weekend for more than 10 years.

HELENA – Curious to know if you were successful in the drawings for moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat and bison licenses? The wait is over. The drawings are complete.

There are a few ways to get your drawing results. Visit fwp.mt.gov, click on MyFWP Login in the upper righthand corner, then click on “Lookup Draw Results, Register for Lists” tab on the left-hand menu, or login to your MyFWP account. You may also sign up for an account at fwp.mt.gov/MyFWP. Applicants may also call any FWP regional office or the licensing office at 406-444-2950.

Deadline reminders: The deadline to apply for elk B, deer B, antelope, crane and swan is Saturday, June 1. All applications must be completed online or at an FWP office. Most FWP offices with license sales are open Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

In the world of home renovations, one of the most impactful yet cost-effective ways to transform your living space is through cabinet refinishing. This process not only rejuvenates your kitchen or bathroom but also significantly enhances the overall ambiance of your home. If you're contemplating a makeover without the hefty price tag of a full remodel, cabinet refinishing is a smart choice. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the various options available, the processes involved, and how to determine the best approach for your home.

Understanding Cabinet Refinishing

Cabinet refinishing involves updating your existing cabinetry by cleaning, repairing, and refreshing the exterior surfaces. Unlike cabinet refacing, which includes replacing doors and drawer fronts and provides more refacing options, refinishing focuses on utilizing your existing materials and applying new paint or stain to change the look. This method is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally friendly, as it reduces waste and the consumption of new resources.

The Benefits of Cabinet Refinishing
The advantages of refinishing your cabinets are many, including:
• Cost Efficiency: Refinishing cabinets costs significantly less than buying new ones or even refacing.
• Time-Saving: The process is faster than a full cabinet replacement, usually taking only a few days to complete.
• Customization: You can choose from a wide range of colors and finishes to match your home’s decor.
• Value Addition: Well-maintained and stylish cabinets can increase the resale value of your home.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Cabinets

The finish you select for your cabinets will largely influence the aesthetic and mood of your space. Here are the most popular options:
Painted Finishes
Painting is a popular choice for transforming cabinets, offering a clean and modern look. High-quality acrylic latex paints are durable and available in an almost limitless array of colors. For kitchens, semi-gloss or high-gloss finishes are typically recommended due to their ease of cleaning.
Stained Finishes
If you prefer to highlight the natural beauty of wood grain, staining is an excellent option. Stains penetrate the wood and can enhance its inherent characteristics. They are available in a range of shades from light to dark, allowing the texture of the wood to show through.
Glazed Finishes
Glazing involves applying a semi-transparent coat over the base paint or stain, adding depth and dimension to the cabinets. This technique is particularly appealing for achieving an antique look.
Distressed Finishes
For those who love a rustic aesthetic, a distressed finish can be the perfect choice. This involves strategic sanding of the edges and corners to create a worn effect, mimicking the look of antique furniture.

Preparing for Cabinet Refinishing

Before diving into refinishing, preparation is crucial to ensuring a smooth and lasting finish. Here’s what the preparation process typically involves:
1. Cleaning: Remove all grease and dirt from the surfaces.
2. Repairing: Fix any damages like scratches, dents, or loose hinges.
3. Sanding: Sand the surfaces to create a smooth base for the new finish.
4. Priming: Apply a primer suitable for the type of finish you are applying.

DIY vs. Professional Refinishing

While DIY cabinet refinishing can be a rewarding project, it requires a certain level of skill and patience.

Here are some factors to consider:
• Skill Level: You should be comfortable with basic home improvement tasks.
• Tools and Equipment: You will need tools like sanders, paint sprayers, and safety gear.
• Time Commitment: DIY projects can take longer, especially if you are learning as you go.

Hiring a professional can alleviate these burdens. Professionals can ensure a high-quality finish, usually with a warranty. They can also offer advice on colors and finishes that best suit your space.

Trends in Cabinet Refinishing

Keeping up with trends can make your home feel modern and stylish. Some current trends in cabinet refinishing include:
• Bold Colors: Deep blues, greens, and even black are becoming popular choices for making a statement in kitchens and bathrooms.
• Matte Finishes: These are gaining traction for their modern look and ability to hide imperfections.
• Eco-Friendly Materials: As environmental awareness increases, so does the use of sustainable materials and eco-friendly paints.

Conclusion

Cabinet refinishing is an excellent way to breathe new life into your home without the expense and disruption of a full renovation. Whether you choose to DIY or hire a professional, the result can be dramatically satisfying and can completely transform the look of your space. Remember, the key to a successful refinishing project lies in careful planning, choosing the right materials, and proper execution. With the right approach, your cabinets will look as good as new, reflecting your unique style and enhancing your home's overall appeal.

Update 5-8: As of 10:30 pm, the Montana Department of Transportation has opened all lanes of traffic on I90 in the Bozeman Pass. Please continue to drive safely and watch for changing road conditions at MDT’s website at https://www.511mt.net.


The Montana Department of Transportation notified Gallatin County 911 that Chains were required on the Bozeman Pass on Tuesday at 10:48 P.M.

Deteriorating road conditions throughout the night led to multiple vehicles becoming stuck, which prevented the DOT plows from being able to clear the roadway. The Montana Highway Patrol had units on the pass throughout the day. The increase in traffic during the morning commute led to more vehicles becoming stuck and multiple vehicles with mechanical issues.  At noon Wednesday, given the continued blockage and the inability of MHP and DOT to clear the road, the Sheriff’s Office mobilized Deputies and Search and Rescue teams to assist stranded motorists.  Deputies and SAR personnel had to use ATVs to get to the vehicles to distribute food, water and fuel.  It is estimated that several hundred vehicles were stranded on the pass.  No injuries have been reported so far.

Currently traffic is moving east and west slowly and is experiencing intermittent stops.  We anticipate somewhat normal travel in the next few hours but recognize the weather could change that.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to remind motorists to carry water, food, and blankets in case they become stranded. Sheriff Springer would also like to thank everyone on the roadways for their patience as workers attempt to clear the roadway.  If stranded motorists are having a medical emergency, they should call 911 and Sheriff’s Office personnel will get them the assistance they require.  As the primary resources for Montana Highways, MDT and MHP worked to clear the blockages, the duration and magnitude evolved into a life safety issue at which time local resources were mobilized to attend to the life safety of those stranded on the interstate.  Assisting the Montana highway resources on this event included Gallatin County Emergency Management, Fort Ellis Fire Dept, Bozeman Police Dept and Belgrade Police Dept.

Attached video and photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office