Monday, Jan. 23rd, 2023

7 Great Free Apps Every Music Lover Needs to Know


Do you like music and want to find more good tracks? Do this conveniently by using your smartphone and TOP helpful apps.

Best Apps for Music Lovers
Music has changed dramatically during the last decades. And that has become a tendency because of rapid technological progress. It makes new music genres emerge. And it also makes music available at hand. Many users start to use their smartphones to listen to the music they like. 

That is extremely convenient. But, unfortunately using the Internet for this purpose is not always a safe thing. There are different types of threats, like malware, spyware, and hackers, on the other side of the coin. Still, that is not the reason to refuse amazing music tracks. They can start to be available in a few clicks thanks to the seven best apps that many music lovers may appreciate. There will also be one extra suggestion to make your listening experience safer. Let's cover all the helpful points.

If you want to enjoy good music and find some tracks you have heard before, these apps can help you a lot with that:

1. Shazam
Have you ever appeared in a situation when you are going somewhere and hear a song that you like immensely but don't know the artist and what the song is called? Shazam will help you to solve the issue. This tool is definitely among the TOP apps to find new music. It helps to find an artist and see music specifications. It also enables quick music sharing. The second thing you need to find out what kind of track you are listening to is to turn on the app and allow it to do a search.

2. Google Play Music
This is one of the easiest options to have at hand.  A user can go to any station that meets one's musical interests. All the music stations are classified according to their music types and temperaments. The app offers more than 50,000 different music combinations. Google Play Music is among the most convenient apps.

3. Apple Music
You could skip this option if you have an iPhone. But, Apple music is good in fact. The biggest advantage of this app is that it gives to a user the exact music one likes.  All recommendations will be formed based on the information about how you had rated other artists before.

4. Spotify
This is another extremely convenient app that opens access to an enormous number of good tracks. Spotify also offers premium quality services and has huge libraries. Using this app will take some money, but the price is pretty affordable. Why? Spotify doesn't only have huge libraries but it also promotes new good musicians. 

5. SoundCloud
This is probably one of the largest music libraries that contain tracks from different artists. Some of them are very good but they are not widely known. Even good handmade pieces may appear on this platform. This app allows users to stream tracks directly or make downloads. The app covers all types of music.

6. Bandsintown
This is a bit non-traditional app. It gives information about different music festivals, concerts, and simply engaging music gatherings. The single thing that a user needs to do is to input the title of an artist or performance. The tool will provide a link to buy tickets for yourself and for your friends conveniently online. Get first-hand information about the most interesting music events from this tool. And by the way, it will also recommend other good artists based on your previous search results.

7. Bandcamp
This is probably the best application for upcoming artists and for those who want to find out about them. The app offers the option to see TOP trends and find out more about fresh releases. This app will allow you to find out about all tracks that will become future hits first. 

One More App for Boosted Security
While using different apps, not only for the purpose of listening to good music, security is always an issue during Internet surfing. Different malware, spyware, and similar threats, unfortunately, appear online, maybe even nearby some good tracks to listen to. 

Luckily, there is a good solution to make a smartphone or any other device safer. A VPN tool will shortly make your device untraceable and hidden from hackers. How does it work?

Any device, whether this is a smartphone or computer, has its unique identifier – an IP address. If a hacker finds out about it, a device instantly becomes vulnerable to different attacks. While you are engaged in listening to your favorite or simply extremely good new music, hackers may cause different damages and steal your data. 

A VPN tool can replace your real IP address with another one. It offers a wide range of VPN servers among which a user can choose anyone that suits one best. And VPN is not only a good tool for security. It can also unblock any content access which has been restricted for some reason. For instance, there is much good music in Sweden. But, if some good music content is blocked, Sweden VPN can easily get access to the desired music easily. VeePN can make this search both easily and safely. Yes, many geographical and governmental restrictions may be overcome easily in a few clicks. Simply choose any Sweden VPN server and you will be likely from this country without any censorship applied.  

There is also a pleasant bonus – a free VPN is available also. Many happy customers worldwide have already tried this tool – user review VeePN confirms the point.  Install a tool for security and boosted user experience. Enjoy your favorite and new music without worries. A free VPN is also available.

Final Words
Find your best musician apps among all suggestions listed here. And don’t forget about cyber security while having engaging listening experiences. Use a VPN tool for that purpose. 

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Sunday, Jan. 22nd, 2023

5 Tips On Garage Conversion Into an Amazing Living Space


You can quickly turn a chilly garage that you don't use into an amazing living space with a little creativity and effort. You may not realize it, but even a small garage has a lot of potential. Also, converting your garage can increase the value of your house. But it is also quick, easy, and reasonably priced to complete.

Don't worry when an improvement is required, the majority of the garage does not always need to be gutted and rebuilt. For numerous reasons, a garage conversion is one of the best options to expand your living space. Although there are countless options, there are still a number of things to take into account. For some of the best garage conversion tips, keep reading.

Boost the Insulation

The first thing to do if you want to convert your garage into a living space is to check the insulation. Most garages don't have proper insulation especially when we talk about garage floor insulation. But if you going to spend some time enjoying your new amazing living space then proper insulation is a must.  

Whether it's winter or summer, a garage with insufficient insulation isn't a good place to hang out. Garage doors and ceilings that are properly insulated will also save energy and money on utility bills.

Plumbing

Depending on how you intend to use the garage space, plumbing may be required. You will require plumbing into your garage if you intend to use it as a separate guest house or even a bedroom. Because you need separate plumbing for the garage space, this is the part of garage conversion that is the most difficult.

However, all plumbing work can be completed flawlessly with the help of a professional plumber. It is best to take care of your plumbing requirements before beginning the garage conversion. The plumber will offer you plumbing suggestions so you can choose wisely.

Improve Your Garage Door

Typically, you'll need to remove your garage door and replace it with a new wall. You could use the opening to install a new exterior door, screen door, or large window to let in more light and air. If your garage slopes, you may need to add a concrete curb where the garage door was to support a new wall.Or you can leave the garage door in place. In most cases, with some basic tools, you can DIY camouflage the garage door. One benefit is that you can sometimes raise the garage door to open up the living space to the outside world. If you chose to go this route, replace your current garage door with an insulated garage door.

Make the Lighting Better

Proper lighting in your garage illuminates your space and helps you make the space more comfortable. Install motion sensor lights, timer lights, and any other type of lighting you can think of to enhance the lighting in your garage. You need stylish, bright lights in your garage if you want to use and enjoy the space. Believe it or not, the right kind of LED light can create real comfort in your new living space.

If possible install some windows. Two to five windows in your garage are recommended. The garage's windows are a good source of natural light for your room. You also need good ventilation when residing in the garage. If this is not possible in your case chose LED lighting to do the work. 

Garage Conversion Permits

Before you begin don't forget to take care of the legal aspects of converting a garage once you've decided it's a good idea for you. It is advisable to follow your local building codes when converting a garage. You will have to apply for a permit. Consult your city's zoning office if you are unsure of where to obtain a permit.

The best method for getting a garage conversion approved will be explained to you by the city zoning office. It is against the law to begin construction without a permit, so refrain from doing so. The majority of garages are not designed for living, so it is advisable to make improvements before moving in.

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Saturday, Jan. 21st, 2023

Riverside Trail – Rescue

 

On January 20, 2023, the West Yellowstone Police Department dispatch center received a call for an individual experiencing chest pain and shortness of breath while out snowshoeing on the Riverside Trail inside Yellowstone National Park, one mile east of the Town of West Yellowstone.

Gallatin County Sheriff Search and Rescue from the West Yellowstone Section, Yellowstone National Park personnel, and Hebgen Basin Fire Department responded to the scene by snowmobile and specialized rescue sled.  The patient was assessed on scene before being transported back to town to an awaiting ambulance.  The patient was then transported by ambulance to the Bozeman Health Big Sky Medical Center for continued care and evaluation.

Sheriff Dan Springer would like to commend the snowshoeing individuals for immediately recognizing the need for medical care.  Traveling with others and a reliable means of communication allowed for an immediate response for assistance.

Photo courtesy of Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office.

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Thursday, Jan. 19th, 2023

HRDC’s Annual Fundraiser Extended to January 31 to Boost Proceeds Available to Help Those Struggling to Make Ends Meet


Bozeman – The UnGala, HRDC’s yearly December fundraiser, has been extended to the end of January. One hundred percent of the money raised is used to support the area’s greatest needs including emergency shelter, affordable housing support, food insecurity, programming for seniors, energy assistance, and more.

Kristin Hamburg, HRDC’s Development Director, conceived of this virtual event several years ago to allow community members to participate at their convenience. “Rather than HRDC spending money each year to host a costly fundraising gala, we invite the community to learn more about our programs from the leisure of their own homes. No fancy dinners to attend, no

need to get dressed up. HRDC’s website serves as the backdrop for this event where folks can visit to learn more about all the ways we are working to build a better community and to ensure no one gets left behind,” Hamburg said.

The continued housing crisis in Bozeman and the surrounding towns in Southwest Montana
coupled with the added financial pressure households are facing due to inflation translates into an increase in the number of people seeking support from HRDC. On a typical day, HRDC assists 10-15 households with housing, hosts 90 people per night at its shelter, provides energy assistance support to10 households, and provides food to 50+ people at its food bank.

Hamburg explained, “Our ability to help people in need is made possible through the generosity
of our community. Neighbors helping neighbors. Those who need help can get it, and those who are able to give help are encouraged to donate during these final days of our UnGala fundraiser if they haven’t already done so.”

As a private, not-for-profit Community Action Organization focused on building a better community through its nearly 50 initiatives, HRDC combats poverty in southwestern Montana
and believes everyone deserves the opportunity to be financially stable. Donors, volunteers, and community members can find out what we have in common at https://thehrdc.org/

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Montana State researchers, collaborators launch projects to help combat stress for farmers and ranchers


BOZEMAN
— Survey results have shown Montana State University researchers that farmers and ranchers throughout Montana and the West experience, on average, a medium level of stress, which could impact their sleep, physical health, mental health and/or relationships, according to Michelle Grocke, health and wellness specialist with MSU Extension and assistant professor in the MSU Department of Health and Human Development

Agricultural stress can be caused by a range of issues, she said, including commodity prices, weather, crop yield, debt, passing a farm or ranch to the next generation, family issues, injuries and illness. She added that it can lead to mental illness, increased risk of suicide and other health issues.

Grocke and her collaborators have launched several projects to help combat this stress. These efforts include a website that provides resources, a program that provides mini-grants for people across the Western U.S. who want to improve the mental wellness of those in their agricultural communities and a project that provides free telehealth counseling services to any Montanan working in agriculture.

“MSU Extension is trying to reach people where they’re at and make information accessible to them,” Grocke said. “If we want to help Montanans – especially if they’re not going to be the ones knocking on our door asking (for help) – it seems like a really good place to focus our energy and time.”

In 2019, a group of individuals and organizations from across Montana, led by MSU Extension and first funded by the Montana Healthcare Foundation, collaborated to provide resources and solutions for farmers and ranchers under stress. The team, known as the Montana Farm/Ranch Stress Prevention Advisory Council, created a website that hosts resources for farmers, ranchers and community members to better understand the causes of stress and how to manage it. The website is called the Montana Farm and Ranch Stress Resource Clearinghouse, and it includes stress management information and links to telehealth counseling services across Montana. Since its launch in the summer of 2020, more than 14,000 people have visited it, Grocke said. The website can be found at montana.edu/extension/wellness/stress-management/mt_farm_stress_clearing_house/.

“We’re trying to add a lot of videos and podcasts and be more creative in how we’re getting content out to Montanans,” Grocke said.

In addition, a USDA-backed Western Regional Agricultural Stress Assistance Project, or WRASAP, has funded research and provided mini-grants for people across the West who want to improve mental wellness in agricultural communities.

The $7.1 million WRASAP grant, of which Grocke is one of the leaders, is a collaboration among individuals and organizations from 13 Western states and four territories. The goals of the grant include conducting research to learn more about causes of stress and desired assistance, creating and providing stress management outreach and education to farmers and ranchers based on those research findings, creating a collaborative network of individuals working toward a shared goal, and providing direct services to farmers and ranchers, including a hotline where individuals can call and talk about their issues and get connected to counseling as appropriate.

A portion of the grant-funded research reports on each state and territory, as well as one region-wide written report, Grocke noted. Those reports can be found at farmstress.us/wrasap-baseline-data-collection/.

“There is a still a lot of work to be done, but this work is helping highlight the issue of stress,” Grocke said.

Now, the WRASAP group is using the research to create outreach and educational programs, including online, self-paced classes, webinars and podcasts, as well as opportunities for training, mental health first aid and suicide prevention training known as QPR.

“There are also hundreds of thousands of dollars available in mini-grants for individuals wanting to improve the mental wellness of their community, either though professional development for themselves or if they would like to start their own outreach project,” Grocke said. For more information on how to apply, visit farmstress.us.

Finally, a new program is providing free telehealth counseling services to any Montanan working in agriculture. The program is part of a collaboration between the Montana State Department of Agriculture, MSU Extension and Northern Ag Broadcasting, along with Frontier Psychiatry. The program is called Beyond the Weather, and it is funded by a portion of a roughly $500,000 grant from the USDA’s Farm Stress Assistance Network that was awarded to the State Department of Agriculture. The grant provides six sessions of free counseling to each person.

Grocke said the program received about 200 calls in its first three months, and she noted that the counselors providing the telehealth counseling services are well-versed in what it’s like to work in agriculture.

“The nice thing is that they’re tailoring the therapy,” Grocke said. “They wouldn’t suggest things like people taking a vacation during calving season. They’re not talking about work-life balance. That’s why a lot of folks who work in agriculture are reluctant to go to counseling – the counselor needs to have that sort of innate understanding.”

Montanans who are working in agriculture who would like to participate in telehealth counseling may call 406-200-8471, extension 7, Grocke said. More information is available at frontier.care/beyondtheweather.html.

Grocke said that regardless of where a person lives in Montana, agriculture is the state’s backbone.

“It’s part of our economy, livelihood, families and culture,” she said. “And it can be really stressful; There are so many stressors beyond people’s control.”

Tricia Seifert, dean of the College of Education, Health and Human Development, praised Grocke’s approach to the work.

“Dr. Grocke and the team approach this work in the collaborative spirit that is what maintains community across rural Montana,” Seifert said. “It is neighbor helping neighbor.”

Cody Stone, executive director of MSU Extension, said MSU Extension aims to improve lives and communities across Montana by focusing on locally identified, statewide needs, and farmers’ and ranchers’ mental health is an important area of this focus.

“Dr. Grocke’s programs and scholarship are exceptional and critically important to MSU Extension’s efforts to address this issue,” Stone said.

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Sensitive Lands Plan Team Launches ‘Love Your Land’ Open House

Agencies from across Gallatin Valley ask the public for input on vision and values
 
BOZEMAN—The Gallatin Valley Sensitive Lands Protection Plan team invites all to attend a kickoff event. The Love Your Land Open House will take place Jan. 31, 2023 at the River Rock Event Center (101 River Rock Road, Belgrade) between 5:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. All are welcome to stop by any time during the event.

The Love Your Land Open House will be an opportunity to learn more about the planning process and how to be involved throughout 2023; communicate the need for change; and confirm the Valley’s vision and values based on results of a statistically valid survey collected from the community in fall 2022. For those who cannot attend in person, a virtual open house and comment tool is available at gallatinvalleyplan.bozeman.net.

 
“If you love our open lands and care about how rapidly the valley is growing, you’ll want to participate in this open house,” Jon Henderson, Strategic Services Director for the City of Bozeman, stated. “This plan is all about knowing what resources are at risk as we develop so that communities can make smart decisions about how and where to grow. Community input will help us prioritize what resources are most valuable and in need of protection.”

 
The Sensitive Lands Protection Plan seeks to find greater balance in the Gallatin Valley and connect the landscape, heritage, and future on common ground. For this project, the Gallatin Valley is considered all public and private land that has yet to be conserved or protected within the Valley, west of the Bridger Mountains and north of Madison County. 

 
A strong connection between clean water, abundant wildlife, productive agriculture, and cultural heritage has provided a high quality of life to residents of the Gallatin Valley for generations. While the area continues to experience unprecedented growth, a regional approach to protecting sensitive lands can help provide adequate habitat into the future.

 
The project team is comprised of working group members from Animal Welfare Institute, City of Bozeman, Craighead Institute, Gallatin County, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, Gallatin Valley Watershed Council, Gallatin Wildlife Association, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Montana Freshwater Partners, Sacajawea Audubon Society, Sierra Club, U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative.

  
More information on the Plan can be found at gallatinvalleyplan.bozeman.net.
 

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Gallatin County 911 Records Resuming Regular Public Office Hours

The Gallatin County 911 Records Division is resuming regular public office hours this week.

Since October, due to short staffing, the records department has been closing to the public at 3 PM each business day to enable staff to catch up on records requests.

The department is now fully staffed, so beginning Jan. 20, public office hours will again be 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday through Friday.

Records is located behind the window at the main entrance of the Law and Justice Center (615 S. 16th Ave. in Bozeman). The department maintains records from the Bozeman Police Department, Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office, and the Gallatin County Detention Center.

In addition to in person, records can be made online here.

For any records request questions, please call 406-582-2005.

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Wednesday, Jan. 18th, 2023

Indoor Workouts When it's Too Cold Outside, Bozeman Montana


When it's too cold outside to enjoy a picnic in the park or take a jog around the neighborhood, there are still plenty of ways to get in a good workout indoors. From at-home fitness apps to creative group classes, working up a sweat doesn't have to mean braving the elements. So whether you're looking for some solo cardio or want to try something new with friends, here are a few indoor workout ideas to keep you moving all winter long.

 
Fuel Fitness in Bozeman Montana is a great place to get started on your fitness journey!

The Fuel Fitness gym in Bozeman Montana is an excellent option for anyone looking to jumpstart their fitness journey. Guaranteed to give you a great workout experience in Bozeman, the welcoming staff and cutting-edge equipment create an environment that makes working out more enjoyable. With multiple benefits and activities offered each day, it's easy to find something that fits your unique goals and interests. From childcare to personal trainers and cardio machines, you're sure to find something new to challenge yourself with at Fuel Fitness Bozeman Montana. If you're unsure where to start on your fitness adventure, be sure to check out this one-of-a-kind gym in Bozeman and experience all it has to offer!

If you're looking for something more intense, try Orange Theory Fitness in Bozeman Montana!

Orange Theory Fitness (OTF) in Bozeman, Montana, can be a perfect choice if you're ready to take your workout routine up a notch. Using the latest HIIT techniques and heart-rate monitoring systems, OTF offers fitness classes guaranteed to blow away any other gym experience. With certified instructors who are passionate about their craft and an array of exceptional amenities such as lockers, showers, and private restrooms, this is an ideal place in Bozeman to sweat it out. So come on down and let yourself go – you won't regret it! They offer high-intensity interval training that is sure to make you sweat.

This type of training ensures you get the most out of a short time. Through these structured bursts of exercise alternated with rest periods, your body can be efficiently pushed to its limits. Imagine working so hard during each interval that you don't just burn off fat but also break a sweat and build endurance. High-intensity interval training utilizes anaerobic exercises combined with aerobic exercises for even better results. Give it a try, and let the endorphins take over!

If you're looking for a great place to work out indoors in Bozeman, look no further! The Fuel Fitness gym and Orange Theory Fitness offer a variety of workouts that are sure to get your heart pumping. So what are you waiting for? Grab your gym shoes and head on over to one of these great locations today!

Tourist attractions combined with exercise

If you count walking as exercise, your brain won’t even notice the effort you put in when visiting local indoor attractions in Bozeman, Montana. The American Computer and Robotics Museum, The Museum of the Rockies, the Montana Science Center, and The Bozeman Art Museum are just a few tourist attractions bound to keep you busy for hours on end.

For those looking to learn more about their favorite beverage, Bozeman, Montana, has several brewing companies looking to be explored. Stroll in any of Bozeman’s breweries to understand how a delicious ale is made. Many of these breweries offer a bite to eat, so you don’t go home too hungry after all that walking.


The Bozeman Hot Springs has outdoor pools, but it also has several indoor swimming pools and a fitness center so you can get your exercise in no matter the weather. The Bozeman Hot Springs also has saunas and hot tubs to relax after your exercise routine.

And if Axe throwing is your thing or your newest interest, Bozeman, Montana, has you covered! Visit the Lookout Throwing Company to get your axe-throwing technique just right.

 
For families looking to entertain mom, dad, and the kids, why not try JumpTime in Bozeman? This exciting indoor trampoline park provides you and your children with a selection of a ninja warrior course, slam dunk basketball, and extreme dodgeball. It’s guaranteed to be a ton of fun and counts as exercise.

Indoor cycling at a local studio in Montana

Going to Montana's local indoor cycling studio can provide many health benefits. One great thing about this type of workout is its low impact, meaning it won't add extra strain and stress to your body like a higher-impact workout. Plus, because you will be pedaling against adjustable resistance, you can vary your intensity level to always push your body while staying safe. Not only will this give you a great cardio routine, but it will help you to strengthen your muscles as well.

 
The social aspect and individualized attention of an instructor at a cycling studio can also benefit many people. Working out with like-minded individuals can provide additional motivation and incentives to keep up your routine. Plus, most studios have music playing during the classes, which can help distract you from the effort of pedaling, making the ride more enjoyable overall. So, keep the beat while you move your feet (and give those glutes a well-deserved workout).

Workout equipment you can buy for your home gym

If you’re looking to assemble your home gym and you want the best results, there are several pieces of essential equipment you should consider getting. Free weights such as dumbbells and kettlebells are both highly effective, along with a multi-purpose weight machine that allows you to use it for many exercise types. An adjustable bench can also be extremely useful for bench presses or ab workouts.

 
Some additional items you may want to look into are a creatine supplement and an adjustable heart rate monitor to easily track your progress. You can also get an exercise mat, some resistance bands, a foam roller to ensure a deep tissue massage, and a skipping rope. Your at-home gym will feel like a place for professionals in no time!

Free weights and other things to use while working out at home

Working out at home can be an exciting and convenient way to stay healthy, and there are plenty of things you can use to help you meet your fitness goals. Free weights such as dumbbells and kettlebells are ideal for strength or cardio training, making them one of the most versatile pieces of workout equipment.

 
With free weights, you have the power to sculpt the body you desire while building lean muscle mass and toning existing muscles. They also require minimal space, making them ideal for anyone with a small living area that cannot fit a large piece of equipment. Additionally, ankle weights can offer bonus resistance for any activity – from running and jumping jacks to push-ups and burpees – giving you an extra edge on the caloric burn.

 
If you have the weights, you may consider following a workout plan created by Kayla Itsines, Rachael Attard, or any other verified fitness coach. These fitness gurus usually publish their workouts online, which makes them easily downloadable and accessible so you can work out anytime you want.

How to stay motivated when working out indoors

Staying motivated while working out indoors is key to ensuring you reach your fitness goals. One way to stay motivated is by creating a routine and exercising at the same time every day. This creates a sense of consistency, which can help you stick with your routine,  making it easier to motivate yourself even when you don't particularly feel like it.

 
Additionally, setting measurable goals for yourself can be incredibly helpful in maintaining your motivation throughout your workout session. Setting short-term achievable goals can create a sense of accomplishment that can significantly boost motivation while seeing progress toward longer-term goals is also a great motivating force. Finally, incorporating new activities into your routine or changing up your exercises occasionally can do wonders for keeping things exciting and helping you stay motivated.
 
If you’re looking for ideas on mixing up your workout routine this winter, try indoor cycling, online workouts, yoga, and home gym equipment. There are many options available that can help you stay active and motivated in Bozeman, Montana, all winter long. Do you have any favorite indoor workouts? Share them in the comments below!

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Tuesday, Jan. 17th, 2023

Three grizzly bears test positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza

HELENA – Three juvenile grizzly bears tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus this fall. The three bears, one near Augusta, one near Dupuyer, and another near Kalispell, were observed to be in poor condition and exhibited disorientation and partial blindness, among other neurological issues. They were euthanized due to their sickness and poor condition. These were the first documented cases of HPAI in grizzly bears. A fox and a skunk in Montana also tested positive for HPAI last year, and the virus has been found in raccoons, black bears and even a coyote in other states and countries.   

“We suspect these mammals probably get the virus from consuming infected birds,” said FWP Wildlife Veterinarian Jennifer Ramsey.

Avian influenza (AI) virus is a naturally occurring virus in birds. AI viruses are classified into two groups, based on the severity of disease they cause in infected poultry. Low pathogenic AI viruses generally cause no clinical illness, or only minor symptoms in birds. HPAI viruses are extremely infectious and fatal to poultry and some species of wild birds.

Although the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers risk of HPAI spread to humans to be very low, Montanans should take precautions when handling game birds, sick or dead birds and mammals they find. Whenever possible, avoid contact with sick or dead wildlife. Even if an animal is not suspected to have died from a contagious disease, gloves should always be worn if a dead animal must be handled for disposal.

FWP staff would like to know about unusual or unexplained cases of sickness and/or death of wild birds and animals by calling their local wildlife biologist or the wildlife lab in Bozeman at 406-577-7880 or 406-577-7882.

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Great Places in Bozeman to Meet Up and Practice Spanish


Bozeman, Montana is one of the most beautiful places in the United States. And if you guessed right, Spanish is one of the most spoken languages in “The Bozone”, second to English, of course. There are also plenty of places to meet up for Spanish practice in Bozeman, whether you're a beginner or an advanced speaker.

Here’s a brief list of some of the best places you can meet up with friends or fellow learners to practice Spanish in Bozeman.

Learn Spanish Online With Lingoda 

Of course, the internet is by far the easier way to learn and practice a new language these days, regardless of your location. By taking Spanish lessons with a language learning platform like Lingoda, you can advance your skills from beginner to advanced level as quickly or as gradually as you’d prefer.

Besides being taught by certified, native-level teachers, the platform offers a variety of tools and resources to help students practice and develop their language skills, including flashcards, quizzes, and practice tests

Bozeman Public Library 

Famous for its diverse collection of materials, this library is home to a variety of Spanish-language books and magazines, as well as language-specific DVDs and CDs. There are also multiple events and classes each month that members can use for help in learning Spanish. 

It's a great place to meet up with fellow Spanish learners and native speakers alike so you can polish your language skills.

Gallatin Valley Mall 

Are you looking for a place to practice Spanish in an informal setting? The Gallatin Valley Mall could be just the perfect spot for you. Besides always having people coming and going, the mall has plenty of shops and restaurants where you can meet with friends.

This presents you with numerous opportunities to strike up a conversation in Spanish with someone, whether or not you come together. You can also take a break from shopping or eating and practice your Spanish skills with a native speaker.

Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture

Located at 111 South Grand Avenue, Bozeman, Montana, the Emerson Center for the Arts and Culture is another incredible meeting spot to practice Spanish. The 14,000-square feet establishment hosts a variety of cultural events and workshops throughout the year, as well as Spanish-language films. 

It's a great way to get out of the house and practice your Spanish with friends – and even strangers in a uniquely different environment.

Bozeman Pond Park

For more outdoor fun, Bozeman Pond Park would be the perfect spot. There are plenty of people walking around, and it's a great opportunity to get some fresh air and take some Bozeman selfies while practicing Spanish. You can also take a break and sit on the grass to chat with someone in Spanish.

And whenever you need to change things a little bit, you and your pals can always choose a different public park, like Bogert Park or Lindley Park, which are also quite picnic-friendly.

Try a Local Spanish-Friendly Restaurant

Would you rather have Spanish practice conversations while enjoying a sumptuous, delicious meal? If so, Bozeman has a great selection of restaurants (especially Mexican) that offer just the right atmosphere.

A good example is El Rodeo, which is actually located at the Gallatin Valley Mall. The Mexican restaurant not only serves delicious food but also has friendly staff members that often speak Spanish. It also stands next to a Mexican ice cream shop. 

There are many more great Mexican restaurants you can try, including Albertano's Authentic Méxican Food on 7th Avenue, El Rodeo Taco Truck, Fiesta Mexicana on Wheat Dr, and La Tinga on Baxter Lane. 

If you’re feeling adventurous, try a Latin American restaurant where you can also enjoy a variety of Latin American dishes while striking conversations.

Local Coffee Shops and Restaurants 

Finally, if you're looking for a more intimate setting, consider visiting local coffee shops. A good place to start would be Cafe Internationale just off College St & 10th Ave, which is often frequented by Spanish speakers. 

It's the perfect place to meet up and chat with someone over a cup of coffee while practicing Spanish. Similar alternatives in town include the cozy Wild Joe's, Cafe M, and Cateye Café on Tracy Ave, among others.

No matter where you choose to meet up, Bozeman is full of great places to practice Spanish. With a little bit of effort, you can find the perfect spot to hone your language skills. 

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This is so typical of a sign in, which we should not have to do to check if we or some one in our party got a permit. I have been working or "creating an account" for 30 minutes and just get the same ...

Smith River permit drawing results available

Sunday, Mar. 10, 2024