The Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance in locating a missing/endangered elderly resident.

Alvin G. Flowers, an 82-year-old resident of Bozeman, was last seen at approximately 2:00 pm on May 27, 2025 at the 2700 block of E. Mendenhall, Bozeman, MT. From our investigation, it appears Mr. Flowers drove away from the family residence in a red 2000 GMC Jimmy. The GMC Jimmy bears Montana license plate 665322B.

Mr. Flowers is 5’11” with a thin build. It is unknown what clothing he is wearing. Mr. Flowers suffers from dementia and type 2 diabetes. Mr. Flowers does not have a cellphone with him. It is unknown where Mr. Flowers intended to travel to.

If anyone sees Alvin Flowers or the red 2000 GMC Jimmy (MT 665322B), please contact the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office immediately by calling 911 or by calling (406) 582-2100 x1.

Photo by Craig on Pexels

For decades, the United States Navy employed asbestos as a “miracle material” to fireproof ships, insulate engines, and protect sailors from the extreme heat of naval operations. But this came at a horrific cost: generations of veterans are now at increased risk of mesothelioma, a rare and lethal cancer that is caused by asbestos exposure. The following are three reasons why Navy veterans are still particularly vulnerable to mesothelioma and why awareness can be a lifesaver.

1. Asbestos Was Embedded in the Naval Infrastructure

Thanks to its heat-resistance properties, asbestos was used in shipbuilding from the 1930s to the early 1980s. It was generally installed to protect boilers, pipes, and electrical equipment on submarines, aircraft carriers, and other Navy vessels. Working in narrow and poorly ventilated areas in ships, such as engine rooms and hull compartments, put Navy personnel at risk from asbestos dust from insulation, gaskets, and adhesives. Even workers who did not work with asbestos directly, such as electricians, welders, or mechanics, were secondarily exposed as fibers hitched rides on clothing, tools, and living areas.

For example, a sailor working on repairing a steam valve might have inhaled asbestos fibers released from nearby pipe insulation. These fibers gradually accumulated in the lungs and, over the years, could result in breathing problems and, decades later, mesothelioma. Since asbestos was in so many parts of naval facilities at the time, the risks affected almost every sailor from that era.

2. Latency Periods Delay Diagnosis and Awareness

Mesothelioma has such a long incubation period and may take up to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure. Many mesothelioma Navy veterans were exposed in their youth. Yet it may not be until their 60s or 70s that they notice symptoms of shortness of breath, chest pain, or fatigue.

By then, they may no longer associate their illness with their military duty. Because of this delay, catching cancer early is not always possible, although it is the best time for successful treatment. The problem is also exacerbated by the fact that mesothelioma symptoms closely resemble those of common age-related diseases. These include COPD or heart disease.

Due to this, misdiagnosis is common. A veteran can dismiss a chronic cough as a part of normal aging or the result of smoking and have no idea it could be a sign of much more. When mesothelioma is diagnosed, the disease is in its later stages. Veterans need to be aware of this delayed correlation so that they can go for screenings more and let doctors know about their military service during medical exams.

3. Continued Exposure Risks in Deactivated Ships

Even after the Navy reduced its use of asbestos, many veterans continued to be exposed to it during vessel repair and decommissioning. Older ships, some of which remain in operation today, contain aging asbestos materials that become increasingly dangerous with age. As these materials degrade, they release toxic fibres during maintenance or demolition. Shipyard workers or salvage experts handling such ships never wore proper gear or received guidance on handling asbestos safely without endangering themselves.

For example, a veteran deployed to upgrade a Cold War-era destroyer might have inhaled asbestos dust while removing old insulation, thus inadvertently restarting the risk of mesothelioma cancer. Interest groups now advocate for increased safety protocols and comprehensive asbestos removal in aging Naval facilities, yet thousands of veterans still carry the burden of their earlier exposures.

Endnote

The Navy’s asbestos legacy is a stark reminder of veterans’ sacrifices and the necessity for continued support. Veterans with a history of past naval service should inform their healthcare providers about potential asbestos exposure, even if it has been several years since exposure. Early testing, including imaging scans and pulmonary function tests, can detect mesothelioma at more treatable stages. Also, facilities like the VA offer asbestos-related disease specialty care and benefits

We’re pleased to share the winners of the Sweet Pea 2025 Poster and T Shirt Design Contests. The winning designs will be featured on merchandise at this year’s festival.

Poster Design Winner – Teal Young
Teal Young is a mixed-media visual artist from Bozeman, Montana. A student of Tina DeWeese, she began sculpting wire at age 10. For the next 18 years, Young found professional success as a sculptor in Bozeman and in a number of cities across the nation. In 2016, an unexpected hiatus from sculpting prompted Young to begin exploring digital art. She has since worked with local and national businesses, state politicians, and had political pieces featured in international news publications. Young has since resumed her wire sculpting with new intensity, and now incorporates carpentry and recycled materials into many of her pieces. In spite of her broadening media and subject matter, however, she continues to sculpt her much-loved wire horses.

Childrens T Shirt Design Winner – Bently Michael
Bentley is a student at Sacajawea Middle School and plays the Trombone in his school’s band. In addition to his love for music, Bentley is learning German and enjoys skiing and biking with his family. His favorite part of Sweet Pea is the incredible music that brings the festival to life. Bentley’s creativity shines through in his winning design, and we’re so excited to share it with all of you!

Adult T Shirt Design Winner - Ghassane Moutaoukil
Ghassane Moutaoukil is a graphic designer, illustrator, printmaker, and typographer based in Bozeman, Montana, and Washington, DC. An alumnus of Montana State University, he has long admired the Sweet Pea Festival and submitted his designs in several contests over the years. This year, his T-shirt design — featuring his own custom font — was selected as the winning entry, drawing inspiration from the natural beauty and artistic spirit of Bozeman, blending bold typography, vibrant colors, and a mix of contemporary and traditional design influences. Passionate about celebrating community and creativity, Ghassane uses his art to connect with others and to honor the enduring spirit of the Sweet Pea Festival.

When you’re building something to withstand the outdoors, like a garden shelter, walkway canopy, or carport, you need materials that won’t let you down when the weather turns. Twinwall polycarbonate sheets offer just that. With their clever design and built-in insulation, they’re ideal for a wide range of outdoor projects. Keep reading to discover how they can make your next structure stronger, smarter, and built to last.

Strong Yet Lightweight Protection That Lasts

Don’t be fooled by the slim profile. These sheets are built with two layers of polycarbonate and an air gap between, which gives them impressive strength without the bulk.

That structure helps them take on tough conditions like wind, rain, and the occasional flying debris without cracking or warping. At the same time, they’re light enough to handle easily during installation. For anyone working on a DIY or commercial project, a polycarbonate twinwall sheet offers a welcome combination of strength and simplicity.

Built-In Insulation for Comfortable Outdoor Use

The twinwall design doesn’t just offer strength, it also helps keep warmth in. That air pocket between the panels acts like a natural barrier, slowing down how quickly heat escapes.This means that greenhouses, garden rooms, and even lean-to extensions may feel more stable in temperature throughout the year. In the colder months, that little bit of insulation may help cut down on heat loss, especially in semi-enclosed spaces.

Let's in Light Without the Glare

One of the standout features of twinwall polycarbonate is how it manages light. Rather than letting harsh sunlight beam straight through, the sheets diffuse the light, creating a gentle, even glow underneath.

This makes them ideal for greenhouses, outdoor seating areas, or sheltered walkways where comfort and visibility matter. You get natural brightness without the squinting or fading that comes with clear panels or glass.

Versatility for All Kinds of Projects

Whatever you’re working on, these sheets can likely be cut, shaped, and tinted to suit. Twinwall polycarbonate comes in a variety of sizes and thicknesses and can be made to fit your exact measurements.

With options available for custom finishes and eco-friendly materials, they suit both small home builds and larger, commercial jobs. Many UK suppliers also offer cut-to-size services, edge finishing, and fabrication support to make installation faster and more accurate.

Low Maintenance, High Satisfaction

Once installed, twinwall polycarbonate is easy to maintain. Most dirt gets rinsed off by the rain, and the rest wipes off with mild soapy water. It’s resistant to mould, yellowing, and UV wear, so even with frequent exposure to the elements, it holds up well. 

It also won’t crack easily or become brittle over time, even in changing temperatures or prolonged outdoor use. For anyone who wants a solution that won’t need regular fixing or replacing, this is a material that delivers peace of mind.

The Right Sheets Make a Big Difference

If you’re putting time, money, and effort into an outdoor build, it’s worth choosing materials that last. Twinwall polycarbonate sheets offer strength, insulation, and low-maintenance performance, all while making the space more pleasant to be in.

Whether you're a homeowner or a builder, this material helps create structures that look good and work even better without adding complications to your project.

Hours after their harrowing experience, John and Justin share their story with Director Christy Clark via phone.

GREAT FALLS – Two landowners were picking mushrooms about a mile north of Choteau on Wednesday night when they were charged by an adult female grizzly bear. The men shot and killed the bear at close range, and fortunately, they were uninjured during the encounter.

"I spoke to John and Justin shortly after the incident and they were both still shook up," Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Director Christy Clark said. “They told me their story and it was clear it was very traumatic. What’s important here is they’re ok.”

Bears are active along the Rocky Mountain Front and in areas around towns like Choteau, Ulm and Cascade. If you are experiencing conflicts with bears, please call your local FWP bear specialist. You can locate their contact information here.

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.

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.
• Travel in groups whenever possible and make casual noise, which can help alert bears to your presence.
• 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.

Though they have reached recovery levels in the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone Ecosystems, 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/conservation/wildlife-management/bear.

Incident Note: The female grizzly in this incident had a cub of the year with her at the time of the encounter. FWP is attempting to capture the cub.

As a result of a new state law enacted earlier this month, the timeframe for filing as a candidate in the November 4 municipal election has been reduced.

This fall, voters in Bozeman, Belgrade, Manhattan, Three Forks, and West Yellowstone will elect members to their city commissions and councils. A full list of available seats can be found here.

Candidates interested in running for these municipal offices must file their paperwork during the new filing window, which opens on Tuesday, May 27, and closes at 5 PM on Wednesday, June 11.

Filing forms are available here. Completed forms must be submitted to the Gallatin County Elections Office either in person or by mail. Please note that forms must be received by the office no later than 5 PM on June 11; postmarks will not be accepted.

The Gallatin County Elections Office is located at:
311 W. Main St., Room 201
Bozeman, MT 59715

Several candidates have already submitted their paperwork under the original filing window of April 17 through June 16. Those filings will still be accepted and remain valid under the new law. These individuals do not need to refile.

Additional information for potential candidates can be found here.

For questions, please contact the Gallatin County Elections Office at 406-582-3060 or gallatin.elections@gallatin.mt.gov.

In recent years, the popularity of mushroom supplements has surged, particularly for those seeking to improve their cognitive function. These natural remedies are derived from various types of mushrooms that have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. Mushroom supplements are not only praised for their potential health benefits, but they have also garnered attention for their ability to enhance brain health and mental clarity. This article will explore the role of mushroom supplements in cognitive enhancement.

 A Powerful Natural Option for Brain Health

Mushroom supplements by premium brands like Ultra Shroom have become a popular choice for those looking to enhance cognitive abilities. These supplements often contain specific mushrooms, such as Lion's Mane, which is known for its ability to support cognitive function. Lion's Mane has been shown to encourage nerve growth factor (NGF) production, a protein essential for the growth and maintenance of neurons. By including these natural supplements in a daily routine, individuals can improve memory, focus, and overall brain health in a safe, plant-based manner.

Enhancing Neuroplasticity and Brain Repair

One of the significant benefits of mushroom supplements is their ability to support neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections. Certain mushrooms, like Lion's Mane, have been shown to promote the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein essential for neurogenesis (the creation of new neurons). This can lead to improved brain function, particularly in the areas of memory, learning, and cognitive flexibility. By stimulating neuroplasticity, mushroom supplements help the brain repair itself and adapt to new challenges, enhancing overall cognitive performance.

Supporting Mental Clarity and Mood Stability

Mushroom supplements are also known to play a role in supporting emotional well-being, which directly affects cognitive function. Mushrooms like Reishi and Cordyceps are known for their calming properties and can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. By promoting mental clarity and stabilizing moods, these supplements can improve focus, reduce mental fatigue, and help individuals feel more balanced and sharp. A clearer mind leads to better decision-making and improved mental performance, making these supplements an excellent addition to a daily routine.

Promoting Long-Term Cognitive Health

Long-term cognitive health is just as important as short-term cognitive performance. Some mushroom supplements, such as those containing Lion's Mane and other neuroprotective mushrooms, are thought to support long-term brain health by stimulating the regeneration of brain cells. This could reduce the risk of cognitive decline as individuals age. Regular use of these supplements may help support the maintenance of brain function, enhance memory, and keep the mind sharp over time.

How a Premium Brand Supplement Can Enhance Cognitive Performance

Choosing a premium brand when selecting mushroom supplements is crucial for ensuring the highest quality and effectiveness. Premium brands typically focus on sourcing the finest ingredients and use advanced production processes to maintain the potency of the active compounds found in mushrooms. Supplements from trusted brands are often third-party tested, ensuring they meet high standards for purity, safety, and potency. A premium mushroom supplement, such as one containing Lion's Mane or other cognitive-enhancing mushrooms, can provide consistent and reliable support for improving memory, focus, and long-term cognitive health.

Mushroom supplements by top brands like Ultra Shroom play a significant role in enhancing cognitive function and supporting overall brain health. These natural supplements can help improve mental clarity, reduce stress, and promote long-term cognitive well-being. While they are not a quick fix, consistent use of mushroom supplements can offer sustained improvements in focus, memory, and mental performance. Incorporating these natural remedies into a daily routine could be an excellent way to keep the mind sharp and support brain health for years to come.

Reclaimed doors, rescued floorboards, and salvaged sinks tend to steal the spotlight in green renovations. These elements come with character—scratches, layers of paint, stories from decades past. They're the things we show off in photos and proudly mention when friends ask about our latest DIY. However, the work that happens out of sight, tucked behind the drywall or beneath the subfloor, often has a bigger impact on how a space feels day to day.

Thermal comfort, energy bills, and whether the space feels like a cozy retreat or a drafty afterthought are less related to the charm of old timber and more to the decisions made before the walls are closed up. And yet, they rarely get the same attention as a beautiful vintage tile or a clever repurposed light fixture.

It’s time they did.

What’s Behind the Walls Matters More Than You Think

For those who build with conscience, who scout architectural salvage yards or pull materials from roadside piles, reducing waste is second nature. But reuse isn’t the only piece of the sustainability puzzle. What goes into the structure, especially what no one sees, often carries the most long-term impact.

Insulation is a perfect example. It doesn’t show up in photos, and you won’t catch anyone admiring it over drinks, but it plays a critical role in how a space functions. It affects how much energy a building uses, how comfortable it feels at different times of year, and how quietly it sits within its environment.

Not all insulation is created equal. One popular option among energy-conscious DIYers is foam board insulation, valued for its high thermal and moisture resistance and ease of use in small-scale builds. It works well in renovated garages, tiny homes, and any place where space is limited, but performance can't be compromised.

When added thoughtfully—beneath reclaimed paneling or inside a reused cabinet-lined wall—this kind of insulation becomes part of the project’s integrity. It is not flashy but essential.

Blending Character with Performance

There’s something satisfying about lining a wall with salvaged tongue-and-groove boards or fitting a patchwork of mismatched windows into a garden studio. These details give a space personality and texture, the kind that can’t be faked with off-the-shelf finishes.

But when old materials are used without attention to what’s behind them, charm can come at the cost of comfort. Drafts creep in through cracks, temperature swings make rooms unpredictable, and heating systems work overtime. That’s where thoughtful layering makes a difference.

Combining reused elements with materials designed for thermal efficiency doesn’t diminish a project’s character. It supports it. When walls are insulated with care, reclaimed finishes don’t have to fight against the seasons. Foam board panels, for example, create a continuous thermal barrier behind even the most eclectic interiors. The materials on display still tell their story, but the hidden layers ensure the space feels as good as it looks.

This hybrid approach, where reclaimed and high-performance materials work together, can make DIY renovations more sustainable and livable.

Small Spaces, Bigger Stakes

In compact builds, every decision has weight. A few inches lost to bulky materials can change how a room functions. A bit of heat escaping through an uninsulated wall might make the whole space harder to enjoy. Whether it’s a backyard office, a van conversion, or a spare room reimagined with salvaged finds, insulation becomes more than just a technical detail—it’s part of making the space usable.

Rigid foam panels offer an easy solution to retrofit odd-shaped rooms or unconventional structures. They fit into walls, under floors, or between reclaimed ceiling joists without demanding much thickness, which leaves more room for living. In cold climates, they help hold in warmth. In warm ones, they keep the heat out. In all cases, they reduce the need for constant mechanical heating or cooling.

When the footprint is small, comfort needs to be built into every layer. A single sheet of insulation can do more for the feel of a space than a dozen decorative touches.

Rethinking What Counts as Sustainable

Sustainability often brings to mind the obvious: secondhand materials, nontoxic finishes, and smart reuse. But real efficiency lies in what a space consumes over time. An old home wrapped in salvaged charm can still waste energy if heat slips through its walls, ceilings, or floors.

That’s where insulation shifts from afterthought to priority. It’s one of the most cost-effective upgrades available, especially for older buildings that were never designed with energy conservation in mind. And contrary to what some might think, you don’t need to gut a room to make meaningful improvements.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, adding insulation to an existing home is one of the best ways to increase comfort and lower utility bills. Their guide outlines how even simple additions—like filling wall cavities or insulating rim joists—can significantly reduce heat loss. It’s a clear, practical resource for DIYers looking to enhance a project’s performance without starting from scratch.

In spaces built with care and creativity, insulation becomes part of the story. It is quiet, yes, but essential.

The Beauty of a Thoughtful Build

It’s easy to fall in love with the materials that tell a story—weathered beams, chippy paint, hand-cut tiles from someone else’s renovation. These elements bring warmth and soul to a space. But they’re at their best when paired with choices that make a home not just beautiful, but practical and resilient.

Good insulation does quiet work. It keeps reclaimed studios usable through winter, helps small homes stay cool through summer, and lets the rest of the design shine without interference from drafts or moisture. It’s a layer that supports the integrity of the entire build.

In projects where creativity drives every decision, that kind of support matters. Whether you’re transforming a salvaged garden shed or rebuilding a home from the inside out, it’s worth thinking about what’s behind the walls. Comfort, after all, is part of sustainability.

For a project that captures that balance—where reused materials meet thoughtful performance—this collection of upcycled DIY ideas offers just the kind of inspiration that keeps creativity grounded in purpose.

BOZEMAN — Memorial Day weekend marks the start of summer travel for many Montanans, but it’s also the beginning of what safety officials call the “100 Deadliest Days” — the time between Memorial Day and Labor Day when traffic fatalities typically spike.

To help prevent impaired driving crashes, the Bozeman Police Department is increasing patrols over the long weekend, in coordination with the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) and the Montana Department of Transportation’s Vision Zero initiative. Officers will be focused on stopping impaired drivers and keeping roads safe for everyone.

“This weekend is about remembrance, but it’s also one of the busiest weekends on our roads,” said Bozeman Police Patrol Captain Hal Richardson. “If you’re heading out to enjoy time off, please be responsible. Arrange a sober ride and help us make sure everyone makes it home safely.”

Montana consistently ranks among the states with the highest percentage of traffic deaths caused by impaired driving. Law enforcement is urging everyone to help change that trend by planning ahead.

“Driving under the influence is one of the most preventable dangers we face,” Richardson said. “Having a plan in place before you drink — whether that’s a designated driver, a rideshare, or public transportation — can mean the difference between a safe night and a tragedy.”

Tips for Staying Safe This Weekend
Designate a Sober Driver: Choose someone in your group who will not be drinking.
Find a Ride: If you’ve been drinking, call a taxi, use a rideshare app, or ask a sober friend for a ride.
Be a Responsible Host: If you’re hosting, make sure your guests have safe ways to get home.
Speak Up: Don’t let friends or loved ones drive impaired — take their keys and help them get home safely.
Buckle Up: Seatbelts are your best defense against impaired drivers.
Report Dangerous Driving: If you see a suspected impaired driver, keep a safe distance and call 911.

For more information about Vision Zero, contact Tammy Ross, Montana Department of Transportation, 406-444-9192, or tross@mt.gov.