BOZEMAN – The U.S. Department of Commerce announced Monday that Montana State University will be home to a newly established Community Engagement Office for the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. The MSU-based office will join Dallas and San Francisco as the largest hubs west of the Mississippi providing trademark and patent services to U.S. innovators.

• A digital learning platform to help middle and high school students explore the college experience to prepare for their futures 
• An innovative wearable medical device to help patients from rural and tribal communities take part in clinical trials 
• Technology related to CRISPR gene-editing, which has applications ranging from vaccine development to the treatment of genetic diseases 
• Tools to detect algal blooms in rivers and other waterways 
• Genetic research to increase yield in durum wheat, which is used for making pasta and other grains 
• Computers designed to function in space and resist cyberattacks, one of which was recently sent to the moon on a NASA mission 

• The Institute for National Security Research and Education, which strengthens national security by delivering technologies, supporting researchers and preparing leaders to safeguard the future of Montana and the United States. 
• MSU's TechLink Center, which is the Department of Defense’s only national partnership intermediary for technology transfer. Since 1999, TechLink has helped companies around the country license DOD inventions to create new products and services, transferring over 1,000 DOD inventions to industry. The center facilitates approximately 60% of all DOD license agreements nationwide.
• MilTech is an authorized National Government Partnership Intermediary that helps bring innovative technology to the U.S. government quickly, reliably and cost-effectively. Established in 2004, MilTech has over 300 active and completed projects with DOD and Department of Homeland Security. 
• In 2025, the DOD named MSU a Defense Innovation Unit OnRamp Hub, which will bring the university's cutting-edge facilities and trained researchers together with companies to scale up and rapidly field technologies for use in defense projects. The hub will lead to more connections between MSU and Montana's business and technology communities and DIU funding opportunities. 

Raising sheep and goats on a small scale has become increasingly common in places like the Gallatin Valley and across Montana. Whether for wool, milk, meat, or land management, these animals fit well into the landscape and the lifestyle. But even on smaller operations, livestock management comes with a set of physical and logistical challenges that are easy to underestimate until you're in the middle of them.

Routine tasks like tagging, vaccinating, hoof trimming, and sorting can quickly become time-consuming and physically demanding. Without the right setup, moving or restraining animals safely can lead to frustration, injury, and stress for both animals and handlers. These issues often affect operations that rely on family labor or solo management.

To address these challenges, many small-scale ranchers are using purpose-built handling equipment. The goal is to improve safety, reduce animal stress, and maintain efficient, consistent daily operations.

Understanding the Basics: What Handling Systems Actually Do

At the heart of any livestock operation is the ability to move, examine, and treat animals safely. Handling systems support these tasks by providing a controlled environment that makes it easier to guide animals through necessary procedures. For sheep and goats, this includes everything from health checks and shearing to vaccinations and sorting by weight or age.

A typical setup might include alleyways, gates, pens, and headgates. These components help direct animal flow with minimal resistance. Many systems are modular, allowing ranchers to expand or adjust them based on space, herd size, or season.

Well-designed sheep and goat handling systems reduce stress for both animals and handlers. When movement is smooth and predictable, animals remain calmer, and handlers face less physical strain. Systems made specifically for small livestock also improve precision. Tasks such as weighing or inspecting animals become faster and safer with proper positioning and control.

Designed for the Rancher: Why Equipment Matters for
Small Operations

Large-scale operations often have dedicated labor and infrastructure, but small farms need equipment that works with limited resources. Handling systems designed for sheep and goats are now being made with these needs in mind, offering scaled-down but effective options.

For many smaller ranchers, livestock care is a one- or two-person job. Equipment must be simple to use and manageable without extra help. Features such as lightweight panels, adjustable widths, and quick setup are not just helpful—they are necessary.

Portability also matters. Many small farms rotate animals across pastures or work on leased land. Equipment that can be easily moved and reassembled enables animal care on-site, without permanent structures.

Systems built for smaller herds also reduce animal stress. Designs that follow natural movement patterns lead to quieter handling and better animal cooperation. Over time, this contributes to healthier, easier-to-manage livestock.

Key Features That Improve Daily Workflow

Handling systems aren't just for big seasonal jobs. They make day-to-day care more manageable. From routine checkups to sorting animals by size or age, having the right tools in place saves time and prevents errors.

Adjustability is essential. Systems that can be resized or reconfigured are useful for mixed herds and for growing farms. Modular components let ranchers adapt their setup as needed.

Portability is another key benefit. Lightweight materials and simple transport options make it easier to move equipment between fields or properties. This is especially helpful for ranchers using rotational grazing or working on shared land.

Some systems include scales or sorting gates that streamline handling and improve accuracy. With fewer obstacles and better flow, handlers can complete tasks with less effort.

Experts in low-stress livestock handling highlight that equipment designed around animal behavior improves safety, reduces injuries, and supports overall herd health. Proper design doesn't just improve efficiency — it strengthens the foundation of everyday care.

Built for the West: What Montana Ranchers Should Look For

Montana ranchers face unique environmental pressures. From rugged terrain to long winters, equipment must be suited to a wide range of conditions.

Durability is critical. Materials should resist rust, bending, and weather damage. Galvanized steel and powder-coated finishes are important for outdoor use, especially in areas where snow and spring moisture are part of the annual cycle.

Storage is also a factor. Many small ranches have limited space for off-season equipment. Systems that fold or stack easily are more practical and easier to store.

Terrain presents its own challenges. Handling systems must remain stable on uneven or soft ground. Equipment with adjustable feet or wide bases helps keep animals and handlers safe in less-than-perfect conditions.

Selecting the right tools means fewer breakdowns, smoother workflows, and longer service life. Integrating sustainable livestock practices also includes choosing equipment that works with the land, supports herd health, and matches the demands of small, resilient ranches.

Practical Benefits: What the Right System Offers Long Term

Handling systems provide lasting value when they support consistent, low-risk livestock care. For small ranchers, the benefits often include fewer injuries, less stress, and more productive routines.

Time is a major factor. When systems are well-designed, everyday tasks such as hoof trimming, sorting, and weight checks take less time and cause less disruption. This leads to more efficient use of limited labor.

Safety is another important outcome. Mishandling livestock can result in injuries, even with smaller animals. Good equipment helps prevent these incidents by offering safe, predictable movement and proper restraint.

Calmer animals lead to better results. Stress affects growth, reproduction, and feed efficiency. Systems that promote smooth handling contribute to more consistent performance and lower long-term health costs.

For new producers or those planning to expand, scalable systems offer flexibility. They can start small and grow with the operation, reducing the need for replacements and major overhauls.

When equipment improves safety, efficiency, and animal well-being, it becomes a foundation for better management. Over time, this type of investment supports both people and animals on the farm.

Conclusion

Managing sheep and goats on a small scale requires a careful approach to daily routines, animal health, and safety. While the herds may be small, demand is constant. For many producers, especially those working with limited labor or facilities, the right handling equipment offers essential support.

Modern systems are helping small operations stay organized, protect their animals, and reduce physical strain. They offer lasting benefits through improved workflows, better outcomes, and fewer disruptions.

By choosing tools that reflect the scale and realities of the farm, ranchers create a more manageable and sustainable future — one that respects both the land and the animals in their care.

Most divorces settle, and for good reason. But when negotiations fail, the courtroom becomes the final decision-maker. Taking a divorce to trial protects your rights when an agreement isn’t feasible, yet it introduces risk, cost, and pressure. Knowing the trade-offs helps couples choose the right path. This decision fundamentally shapes what divorce looks like.

Settlement means both parties agree on major issues. You divide property, decide custody, and determine support through negotiation rather than judicial decision. Trial means a judge decides these issues for you. Neither path is inherently better. Settlement works when compromise is possible. Trial becomes necessary when compromise fails. Understanding when each makes sense is crucial

.The emotional and financial stakes of this choice are enormous. Settlement puts control in your hands. Trial puts control in a judge's hands. That difference affects not just outcomes but how you feel about them. A settlement you negotiated, even if imperfect, often feels acceptable. A trial verdict you didn't choose might feel imposed. That psychological difference matters as much as financial impact.

What You Gain: A Judge's Authority

Some issues need a legal ruling when parties fundamentally disagree. Custody disputes where both parents want primary care require a judicial decision. Property divisions that can't be agreed require judicial guidance. Support disputes involving complex income situations might need expert analysis and judicial ruling. In those situations, a trial provides the authoritative decision that a settlement can't provide when parties are deadlocked.

A judge brings legal expertise and neutrality to decisions. They've seen custody cases before and understand what courts generally consider best for children. They understand property division law and can apply it consistently. They apply judicial authority that pressures both parties to accept outcomes they might otherwise contest. That authority can actually resolve disputes that negotiation extends indefinitely.

Trial also creates a record. Judicial decisions are documented, appealable, and enforceable through the court system. If your ex violates a court order, you have legal recourse. Enforceability matters significantly for complex arrangements or situations where one party has a history of not following agreements. Sometimes, judicial authority is the only way to guarantee compliance.

What You Risk: Cost, Time, and Unpredictability

Trials require extensive preparation and emotional endurance. Attorneys need to gather evidence, prepare witnesses, and build arguments. You might need expert witnesses for complex issues. Discovery can take months. Pre-trial motions and scheduling consume time. By the time trial actually happens, months or years have passed. Those delays extend uncertainty about your future.

Cost escalates dramatically in trial preparation. Expert witnesses charge substantial fees. Attorneys bill for extensive research and argument preparation. Court fees and filing costs add up. A trial that lasts days costs exponentially more than settlement negotiation taking weeks. For many people, the cost alone makes trial untenable financially.

Unpredictability is the biggest risk. You think you have a strong case, but a judge might view evidence differently. Witnesses perform differently than expected. Judges have biases and perspectives you can't predict perfectly. Settlement lets you control outcomes. Trial means accepting whatever a judge decides, even if you disagree with the decision. That unpredictability creates anxiety that extends throughout the trial process.

How Attorneys Help Weigh the Decision

Your attorney can assess case strength honestly. They've seen similar cases and understand how courts typically rule on comparable issues. They can predict what a judge might decide based on judicial patterns in your jurisdiction. That professional assessment helps you understand whether trial is actually likely to improve your situation or whether settlement, though imperfect, is actually your better option.

Legal strategy becomes personal strategy in trial decisions. Your attorney can outline trial costs, predict timeline, and estimate outcomes. They help you understand what you're likely to gain versus what you're risking. They explain how judges view custody, property, and support issues. That education helps you make informed decisions rather than emotional ones.

Attorneys also help identify settlement opportunities. Sometimes parties think they're deadlocked when creative solutions actually exist. An attorney experienced in divorce negotiation can often find middle ground that parties arguing directly can't find. That negotiation skill sometimes prevents trials that could have been avoided.

Conclusion

Courtroom decisions shape futures. Choose the path with eyes wide open about costs, timeline, and what you might actually gain or lose. Settlement offers control and certainty. Trial offers judicial authority but introduces unpredictability and expense. Neither is universally better. Your specific situation determines which makes sense.

Most people who go to trial feel they had no choice. They tried settling, disagreement persisted, and trial became necessary. Those people usually accept trial outcomes better because they understand why trial happened. People who choose trial as strategy when settlement was actually possible often regret the choice later. Understanding the difference between a necessary trial and a chosen trial matters enormously.

BOZEMAN –Bozeman Public Library is encouraging readers 12 years old and up to join in a reading challenge as the new year kicks off. The Ultimate Book Nerd (UBN) Challenge will start Jan. 2 and asks participants to read one book in each of the 50 categories – that’s 50 books in 52 weeks. Winners will receive a prize: a high-quality book bag with the words, “Ultimate Book Nerd.” 

“If you’ve been told your nose is always buried in a book, or your headphones are always tuned into an audiobook, you might be the perfect fit to take on this challenge,” says Becky Kasten, Assistant Library Director at Bozeman Public Library.

“We launched this program to encourage people to challenge themselves to a year of reading and learning, and we’re excited to see who takes us up on it.”

The categories will be listed in a log sheet and vary widely. Readers can interpret categories differently, and the main requirement is that they be 50 different books.

While participants are going through the challenge, the Library will also host quarterly “Meetings of the Nerds” on the second Thursday of March, June, September, and December 2026. These meetings will be a chance to talk with fellow participants about books they have been reading and categories they have yet to finish.

This tough and stimulating program originated in Boise Public Library and is the first time Bozeman is attempting the challenge.

Those seeking more information on this program can stop by the Library or call 406-582-2400.

The Ellen Theatre is thrilled to welcome back legendary comedian Paula Poundstone for one night only on Friday, January 9 at 8:00 PM. Known for her brilliant observational humor and uncanny ability to turn any moment into a laugh-out-loud exchange, Poundstone brings her unmistakable wit to the stage for a performance that promises to be as spontaneous as it is side-splitting. All seats are $57.75.

Poundstone—star of multiple HBO specials including Cats, Cops and Stuff, and Paula Poundstone Goes to Harvard—has long been considered one of the most influential comedic voices of her generation. She is a beloved regular on NPR’s hit comedy news quiz, Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me! and reaches audiences worldwide as host of the weekly comedy podcast Nobody Listens to Paula Poundstone.

In addition to her onstage career, Poundstone is an acclaimed author. Her book, The Totally Unscientific Study Of The Search For Human Happiness, was a semifinalist for the prestigious Thurber Prize for American Humor. The audiobook version earned a nomination for the AUDIE Award’s Audiobook of the Year, cementing her reputation as a powerhouse across multiple mediums.

Poundstone has broken barriers throughout her career: she was the first female comic to perform standup at the White House Correspondents Dinner, and her HBO special Cats, Cops and Stuff became the first comedy special by a woman to win the Cable ACE Award for Best Comedy Special. Her work is frequently cited in documentaries, books, and compendiums chronicling the most impactful comedians of our time.

“No two shows I do are the same,” Poundstone has said of her famously improvised sets. “My shows, when they’re good—and I like to think they often are—are like a cocktail party… You tell a story, meet some new people, spill a drink, mock the person who spilled it. No one applauds when I leave a party, though. I think they high five.”

Audiences at The Ellen know to expect the unexpected. In previous sold-out appearances, Poundstone effortlessly spun entire segments from who happened to be sitting in the front row of the Ellen Theatre—a couple of bear trackers once fueled 30 minutes of hilarity, and another Ellen show, a Life Coach got an extremely funny roast. As always, those who prefer not to become part of the act are gently advised to choose their seats accordingly.

Beer and wine will be available in the lobby beginning at 7 PM, with the evening’s improvisational fireworks launching at 8 PM.

Given Poundstone’s history of sell-out shows, early ticket purchase is strongly encouraged.
Tickets are available now at www.theellentheatre.org or by calling The Ellen Theatre box office at 406-585-5885.

Paula Poundstone Friday, January 9 at 8 PM
All Seats: $57.75
The Ellen Theatre – Bozeman, MT

Join us for an unforgettable night of sharp wit, spontaneous comedy, and the inimitable Paula Poundstone.

Corporate travel is essential for businesses that have the financial capacity to explore a new development strategy. We know how important networking is in the corporate world, and the pandemic has been a significant disadvantage in this regard, despite technology allowing people to connect.

Business travel offers plenty of advantages beyond entering new markets. It supports engagement with diverse cultures by enabling employees to attend international conferences, while also fostering creativity through interactions with professionals across different industries. But most importantly, business travel strengthens client and partner relations by proving commitment and professionalism.

Thus, companies should approach corporate travel more often, but in a balanced, efficient way that caters to their needs. Here are some essential services to help reach this goal.

Business booking functions

Relying on booking services is ideal because it helps cut costs in different ways. For example, enrolling the team in a platform membership can offer some of the most affordable trip prices. Since they’re part of an exclusive group now, employees can find some of the best business flights to any location through services like SkyClub, as well as accommodation and care rentals. Offers with extensive inventory are cost-efficient, but finding the best ones may require some research and rate comparisons.

Policy compliance

Usually, the corporate trip must adhere to a set of guidelines for employees to follow throughout. These include aspects of transportation, accommodation, medical expenses, and daily allowances. In other words, it covers employees’ reimbursable activities, those covered by the financing program, and those outside the financing program, along with their responsibilities. A policy compliance solution offers easy ways for both employees and employers to manage trips efficiently and address unexpected situations.

Expense tracking

Following up on expenses is a continuous process that can help minimise costs for the next trip, as well as reallocate expenses to where they are most needed. Such a solution is destined for reporting, monitoring, and analysing costs, which can then be documented and improved. For example, the method of setting travel caps is popular because it prevents overspending and helps employees better adhere to the company policy. These don’t have to be restrictive but rather focused on sustainable choices, corporate cards, and leisure traveling.

Constant employee support

24/7 travel support is one of the most efficient ways to ensure unexpected events can be managed in time. Finding business travel management services with 24/7 customer support is the best fit for navigating challenges like flight delays and lost luggage, especially in international travel, where different country policies hinder communication and problem-solving. Another benefit of this service is that the traveling team has one less thing to worry about, since they can reach out to a team of professionals day and night.

Documentation support

Allowing your team to travel for business requires a set of documents that must be completed throughout the trip, digitised, and kept safely as an addition to the physical ones. The passport, Visa, and boarding pass are always necessary to keep on hand, but having travel insurance and a corporate itinerary completes the list of documents that make the trip efficient. Luckily, you can use software to keep documents in a centralised hub and reduce the risk of misplacing or losing them. It’s also worth noting that not all travel checkpoints follow the same structure, so being prepared is always a good idea.

Risk assistance

Traveling can sometimes expose employees to risks, including occupational dangers or security threats. However, sometimes, the case involves a natural disaster or conflict that hinders the purpose of the trip and puts people’s lives in danger. Preventing such issues is possible with a risk management solution that identifies, evaluates, and mitigates risks through a series of guidelines and policies. In this way, the business fulfils its duty of care, while employees have peace of mind that every possible event can be managed. Handling major incidents is always more efficient than facing them for the first time.

Wellbeing programs

Depending on the aim of the trip, employees might be more likely to experience stress and sleep deprivation, which not only affects the quality of corporate activity but also leads to burnout. Luckily, wellbeing programs are available for corporate trips and include gyms and spas where people can unwind. In some cases, stress management resources, such as guided meditation or mindfulness, can help manage strong emotions and redirect the focus towards an open approach to business.

Group management

More often than not, companies send a group of employees with the best skills in communication, time management, and organisation to represent the company. While this strategy offers additional benefits by attracting diverse collaborations, it can create further challenges in following itineraries or managing logistics. That’s why using a group travel management solution will ensure all team members communicate efficiently and have access to a central point of contact for important travel information, for instance.

Carbon offsetting checks

The carbon footprint of a business trip is often overlooked, and less than 40% of the top companies report them. Unfortunately, this hinders total business transparency for customers and associates, since disclosing the information could reveal the lack of interest in minimising emissions for corporate trips. A software solution for managing emissions could be a great start for businesses that want to monitor their environmental impact while demonstrating social responsibility. But the most important advantage of carbon offsetting checks is that they contribute to sustainability goals realistically, without greenwashing audiences.

Conclusion

Traveling for business seems like a lot of fun, but it is often an activity filled with documents and checks throughout the trip that ensure its efficiency. Making it more productive means using all the tools available to manage expenses and improve them, securing the well-being of employees in the case of overworking, and even prioritizing carbon offsetting for future trips. The main goal of diversity in software solutions or management apps is to continuously improve the experience and still allow employees to have fun and boost their skills.    

BOZEMAN – Hunter harvest rates in southwestern Montana were mixed during the general deer and elk hunting season, according to data gathered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists. Mild weather during much of the general season made it challenging for hunters to find game at some lower elevations.

The general season was held over five weeks and six weekends from Oct. 25 through Nov. 30. During that time, FWP staff operated game check stations at various times and locations in Region 3, including stations in Alder, Cameron, Canyon Ferry, Divide, Gallatin Canyon, Lakeside and Silver City. Collectively, they met with 7,069 hunters who harvested 49 white-tailed deer, 174 mule deer and 355 elk.

Biologists use check stations to collect data on hunter participation and success, as well as the species, sex and age class of the animals harvested. Check station data captures a portion of hunting activity on weekends in specific areas. Hunter numbers and harvest rates can be influenced by weather, changes in hunting regulations from one season to another, and other factors. Biologists also rely on information collected through hunter harvest phone surveys each year.

The Alder check station was open on the first, third and sixth weekends of the general season. Over those three weekends, wildlife staff met with 719 hunters who collectively harvested six white-tailed deer, 28 mule deer and 47 elk. The hunter harvest rate for the final weekend was 14 percent, below the long-term average of 20 percent but an increase from the 11-percent harvest rate over opening weekend.

The Cameron check station was open each weekend during the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 2,635 hunters who harvested 25 white-tailed deer, 45 mule deer and 159 elk over the six weekends. Hunter harvest rates ranged from 5.7 percent on Nov. 8-9 to 10.8 percent on Nov. 22-23. The number of hunters checked was above average, but the number of elk checked and hunter success rates were below average. Warm and dry conditions for most of the season kept elk dispersed throughout their range and difficult to track. This year, 73 percent of elk checked were harvested on public land. Whitetail and mule deer harvest were average for this area.

Biologists operated a check station at Canyon Ferry on the first and final weekends of the general season. They met with 602 hunters who harvested one white-tailed deer, 14 mule deer and 15 elk. Hunter harvest was about 7 percent on both weekends.

The Divide check station was also open each weekend during the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 1,464 hunters who harvested four white-tailed deer, 57 mule deer and 64 elk over the six weekends. Hunter harvest rates ranged from 6.3 percent on Nov. 8-9 to 13.4 percent during opening weekend. Hunter numbers were 11 percent greater than in 2024 and 8 percent greater than average. Hunter success was equal to last year and 7 percent below average.

The Gallatin check station operated during the first, third and sixth weekends of the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 457 hunters who harvested four white-tailed deer, three mule deer and 21 elk. Hunter success was highest over opening weekend at 7.5 percent and lowest during the final weekend at 3.2 percent. Overall, this season showed average numbers of elk, mule deer and white-tailed deer harvested, with the number of hunters being below average.

The Lakeside check station was open during the third weekend of the general season, where wildlife staff met with 191 hunters, about 8 percent of whom harvested game.

The Silver City check station operated on opening and closing weekends of the general season, with hunter harvest rates of 6 and 7 percent, respectively. Staff met with 1,001 hunters who harvested four white-tailed deer, five mule deer and 16 elk over the two weekends.

The Toston check station was open on Nov. 9, which brought 73 hunters and a harvest rate of 8.3 percent. Those hunters harvested six mule deer.