HELENA – Hunters have until June 30 to purchase a chance for a SuperTag for the 2024 hunting season. Eight hunters will win a SuperTag license for one of the following species: moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goat, antelope, elk, deer, bison and mountain lion. One SuperTag will be drawn for each species. The SuperTag can be used in any hunting district in Montana – including Montana's trophy districts.

To see the number of SuperTag chances sold, hunters can check the FWP website each Monday between now and June 30. Revenue from SuperTag sales is used to enhance hunting access and boost Fish, Wildlife & Parks enforcement efforts. A Conservation License is required to purchase a SuperTag; each SuperTag chance is $5. There is no limit on the number of chances a hunter can buy.

In 2023, the Montana Legislature established a new SuperTag for residents. In addition to purchasing regular SuperTag chances, every Montana resident who purchases a general elk or deer license on or before June 30 will automatically receive one entry into the new resident SuperTag drawing. This year, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission determined the resident SuperTag will be for a moose license. Like other SuperTags, the winner will be able to hunt for moose in any moose hunting district in Montana.

To purchase chances online, go to FWP's Online Licensing Service. You’ll receive a receipt verifying purchase that lists your lottery numbers. SuperTag chances are also available for purchase at FWP offices and license providers.

Those who win a SuperTag and also draw a license or permit through FWP’s special permit license drawings will be required to surrender that license or permit before receiving the SuperTag. FWP will refund the license fee associated with the special permit or license and reinstate any bonus points. Montana’s seven-year wait for individuals who draw a moose, sheep or goat license through Montana’s special permit license drawings will not be imposed on SuperTag winners.

The drawing for SuperTags will be held in early July. To check your drawing status, go to MyFWP.

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is looking to fill positions on two separate councils – the Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program (UGBEP) advisory council and the Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program (WHIP) advisory council.

UGBEP council

The UGBEP advisory council provides ongoing monitoring of Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program activities. Council members represent all FWP administrative regions and include upland game bird hunters, chamber of commerce memberships, landowners, upland game bird biologists and others who have conservation interests. For this position, the applicant must be a landowner residing in Region 4 or Region 6.

The UGBEP council meets two times a year and members are asked to participate in additional discussions throughout the four-year term. Council members are appointed by FWP Director Dustin Temple.

WHIP council

WHIP advisory council members are responsible for advising the department on Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program administration and for reviewing, ranking and recommending proposed projects for funding. FWP completes the final review and determines the distribution of funding. To view the interest groups represented in the council, click here. For this position, the applicant must be a farmer or represent a farming organization.

The WHIP council meets up to two times a year and members are asked to participate in additional discussions throughout the year. Council members are appointed by FWP Director Dustin Temple.

How to apply

To apply for the UGBEP council, visit fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/upland-game-bird-enhancement-advisory-council. Paper applications are also available by calling 406-444-5674. Applications must be submitted by June 21. The next council meeting will be held in Charlo on Sept. 9 and 10. For more information, call Debbie Hohler at 406-444-5647, or email dhohler@mt.gov.

To apply for the WHIP council, visit fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/wildlife-habitat-improvement-advisory-council. Paper applications are also available by calling 406- 444-7291. Applications must be submitted by July 19. The next council meeting will be held January of 2025. For more information, call Andrew Amidon at 406-444-7291, or email andrew.amidon@mt.gov.

BOZEMAN — A graduate student at Montana State University has been awarded a distinguished fellowship from NASA. Haley Ketteler, who is expected to graduate with a master’s degree in electrical engineering later this year, will use the Space Technology Graduate Research Fellowship to pursue her doctorate in mechanical engineering at MSU.

“Being selected as a NASA Space Technology Graduate Research Fellow is a real mark of distinction,” the space agency wrote to Ketteler. “Because of your exceptional background and potential for research, you have been chosen to develop groundbreaking, high-risk/high-payoff, early-stage space technology. Your contributions will help make science and space exploration more effective, affordable and sustainable.”

The four-year fellowship, to support Ketteler’s project “Electrochemical Impedance Sensors for Microbial Monitoring in Spacecraft Wastewater Systems,” has a maximum value of $84,000 per year that includes a stipend, health insurance, tuition and fees, and other support.

“It has been my dream to work for NASA since I was a little girl, and this is a wonderful step toward that dream,” Ketteler said. “It is also extremely encouraging to have my research interests and questions supported by established space tech developers who have a clear vision of what is needed in future space technology.”

Ketteler, who is originally from Pierre, South Dakota, is co-advised by Christine Foreman, professor of chemical and biological engineering, and Stephan Warnat, associate professor of mechanical and industrial engineering.

“This fellowship is a culmination of years of hard work on Haley’s part, and I am thrilled for her,” Foreman said. “In addition to her academic and research excellence, she is engaged with the MSU community, serving as part of the WISE leadership team and a longtime  volunteer with FIRST Robotics. I am looking forward to the opportunities this will provide for Haley to more fully engage with NASA and live out her dream.”

WISE, or Women in Science and Engineering, is a student-led group that supports graduate students of all genders in science, social science, math and engineering by providing opportunities for both professional and social development.

Ketteler’s research interests include designing and building sensors to detect biofilms in spacecraft water-reclamation systems, such as on the International Space Station. Water-reclamation systems recycle and sanitize wastewater produced by astronauts and other sources. Their plumbing and machinery are fertile ecosystems for microbial life that can form biofilms — potentially harmful communities of microbes that produce a protective slime that makes them difficult to kill or remove.

“In many future spacecraft, part of the operating procedure will be to place life-support systems into dormancy when astronauts are not on board, so we need a way to autonomously monitor the amount of biofilm in these systems to avoid system failure when emerging from dormancy. That's where the sensors I work on will come in,” Ketteler said.

Warnat praised Ketteler’s  work ethic and curiosity.

“Haley is an exceptional student, the kind you would be fortunate to have in your lab,” Warnat said. “Her diligent work ethic is matched only by her insatiable intellectual curiosity, as evidenced by her thought-provoking questions. And this is just the beginning of her journey in graduate studies.”

As part of her fellowship, Ketteler will travel to NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, Alabama, to test biofilm sensors in the model systems available at the facility .

“Depending on how the testing goes, I may continue to do annual visits to MSFC or visit other centers working on the life-support systems to explore more applications of the sensors and the research being done at the different NASA facilities,” she said.

The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that Broadus and Bozeman have been accepted as members of its Montana Main Street Program. Broadus joined the program at the end of 2023, and Bozeman in April of 2024.

“Downtowns are the heartbeat of Montana’s towns and cities, providing a hub for local businesses and social activities. Downtowns are also places where communities have an opportunity to thrive through sustainable economic growth,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “By becoming members of our Montana Main Street Program, Broadus and Bozeman can strengthen and preserve their historic downtown commercial districts by supporting economic development, urban revitalization and historic preservation through long-range planning and promotion.”

Membership in the Main Street Program provides communities with access to Main Street grant funding, technical assistance, community networking and resources offered through the national Main Street America program to revitalize and promote downtown commercial districts.

“It’s so impressive that our community, through many volunteers, can pull together to accomplish anything they put their minds to. Becoming a member of the Montana Main Street Program is just another example of how great our people are,” said Broadus Mayor Chad Gatlin. “It will serve as the first step in getting us to where so many have wanted to go. We look forward to renewed excitement, community pride and building a brighter Broadus.”

“Bozeman proudly announces its acceptance into the Montana Main Street Program, highlighting our dedication to collaborative efforts statewide. This milestone reflects a significant step forward in fostering partnerships and enhancing community beautification initiatives,” said Bozeman Mayor Terry Cunningham. “Through our participation in the program, Bozeman looks forward to elevating our city's unique appeal while contributing to the collective progress of communities across Montana.”

Established in 2005, the Montana Main Street Program, a National Main Street Center Coordinating Program, is part of a grassroots network of communities across the country committed to creating high-quality places and building stronger communities through historic preservation-based economic development. With the addition of Broadus and Bozeman, there are now 38 Montana Main Street communities.

For more information about the program, visit comdev.mt.gov & https://downtownbozeman.org/news/bozeman-joins-department-of-commerces-montana-main-street-program.

In the era of timepieces, pre-owned luxury watches offer a captivating allure. Beyond the mere measurement of time, these finely crafted accessories embody heritage, sophistication, and individuality. However, finding the perfect pre-owned luxury like those of Rolex watches that aligns with your style can be daunting amidst the plethora of options. Fear not; this guide unveils essential insights to aid your quest for horological perfection.

Defining Your Style Identity

Understanding Your Aesthetic

Before embarking on your search for used rolex watches, it is paramount to discern your style. Are you drawn to timeless classics or contemporary designs? Do you prefer understated elegance or bold statements? Reflecting on these questions will provide a roadmap for selecting a watch that harmonizes with your unique aesthetic sensibilities.

Researching Brands and Models

Delve into luxury watch brands to identify those resonating with your style ethos. Please familiarize yourself with renowned names such as Rolex and many more celebrated for their craftsmanship. Explore their diverse collections and historical significance to pinpoint models that resonate with your preferences.

Navigating the Pre-Owned Market

Trustworthy Sources

When venturing into the pre-owned market, prioritizing reputable sources is paramount. Seek out established dealers and certified retailers renowned for their authenticity and transparency. Platforms offering certification and warranty services provide added assurance of quality and authenticity, easing concerns regarding the legitimacy of your investment.

Condition Assessment

Scrutinize the condition of prospective timepieces with meticulous attention to detail. Examine the case, dial, and movement for signs of wear, ensuring they meet your quality standards. While minor blemishes may be acceptable, significant defects or alterations warrant caution, potentially signalling underlying issues affecting the watch's integrity and value.

Aligning with Your Lifestyle

Practical Considerations

Incorporating your lifestyle into decision-making ensures your chosen timepiece seamlessly integrates into your daily routine. Consider water resistance, durability, and versatility, particularly if you lead an active or dynamic lifestyle. A watch that effortlessly transitions from formal occasions to casual settings enhances its practicality and utility.

Investment Potential

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, a pre-owned luxury watch represents a tangible investment: research market trends and historical performance to gauge the investment potential of prospective models. Limited edition releases, iconic designs, and discontinued models often command higher resale values, making them attractive options for discerning collectors seeking to maximize their return on investment.

Seeking Professional Guidance

Consultation with Experts

Navigating the nuances of the pre-owned luxury watch market can be overwhelming, prompting many enthusiasts to seek guidance from horological experts. Consultation with experienced watchmakers, appraisers, or collectors can provide invaluable insights into the intricacies of specific brands and models, empowering you to make informed decisions aligned with your preferences and budgetary considerations.

Authentication Services

Verifying the authenticity of a pre-owned luxury watch is paramount to safeguarding your investment. Utilize authentication services from reputable dealers or independent experts specializing in luxury timepieces. Comprehensive authentication procedures encompassing detailed inspections and documentation ensure the legitimacy of your purchase, mitigating the risk of counterfeit or misrepresented products.

Embracing Timeless Elegance: The Quest for Your Ideal Pre-Owned Luxury Watch

Exploring Iconic Design Elements

Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of design elements that define pre-owned luxury watches. From intricate complications to distinctive case shapes, each timepiece embodies a unique blend of artistry and functionality. Delve into the nuances of dial configurations, bezel styles, and bracelet options to discern the subtle details that resonate with your aesthetic. Whether enamored by the classic allure of a vintage dress watch or the avant-garde appeal of a contemporary sports model, allow your discerning eye to guide you towards a timepiece that reflects your style and sophistication.

Unveiling Horological Heritage

Behind every pre-owned luxury watch lies a captivating narrative of horological heritage and craftsmanship. Trace the lineage of renowned watchmakers, from their humble origins to their enduring legacy in haute horlogerie. Immerse yourself in the history of iconic models, tracing their evolution through the decades and the innovations that have shaped their design and performance. Whether drawn to the storied traditions of Swiss watchmaking or the pioneering spirit of avant-garde artisans, embrace the opportunity to own a piece of horological history that transcends mere timekeeping, embodying a legacy of excellence and innovation.

Elevating Your Watch Collection

For seasoned collectors and enthusiasts, acquiring a pre-owned luxury watch represents more than a mere acquisition—it is a pivotal moment in the evolution of their watch collection. Whether expanding upon a thematic focus or diversifying their portfolio with new horological territories, each acquisition adds depth and character to their curated ensemble of timepieces. Consider the synergies and contrasts between existing pieces, envisioning how each new addition enhances the cohesive narrative of your collection. Whether pursuing rarities, limited editions, or sought-after classics, let your watch collection reflect your discerning tastes and appreciation for the artistry of haute horlogerie.

The journey to finding the perfect used rolex watches is a deeply personal odyssey. Defined by discerning tastes, meticulous research, and a reverence for craftsmanship, the pursuit of horological perfection transcends mere functionality, emerging as a testament to individuality and refined style. Armed with insights gleaned from this guide, embark on your quest confidently, knowing that the watch adorning your wrist is not merely an accessory but a timeless expression of your unique identity.

Many people consider the environmental benefits of solar panels when they hear the word. The benefits outweigh the costs. Is it true that solar panels actually reduce costs? From time to time, we shall make purchases, enter into solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), and lease solar panels.



Getting solar panels might help you save money on your electricity bills.
 
It looks like this place has no problems. You should figure out how much you spend on electricity from the power company each month or year and then compare that to how much you will spend on energy with the best solar panels, which should be nothing. But! There are several factors that help us figure out if switching to energy is financially possible:
 
Where you live—how many hours of sunshine do you get each day, week, and month?
What does your current power bill look like? Rates vary from city to city and may be very different.

How much energy you use will depend on whether the system is going to be installed in your house, on a farm, or in a business.

Here are some examples from the 2022 figures that were shown. The price is $0.13 per kWh in Arizona. Also, the cost of solar energy and installation cost a total of $10,672. Let's look at California. The cost of energy there is $0.28 per kilowatt-hour, and it costs $12,751 to build a solar plant there. But it will save $73,985 over 25 years. Should you really spend less when you have solar panels? Yes, of course, it is clear. Because of new technologies, the price of batteries will go down over time. This will save you even more money.
 
You now know what solar panels can do for you. What if you might not be able to get panels? You can rent them.
 
Should you rent solar panels to save money on your electric bills?

Solar panel rentals are really the same as hiring something else, like a car. There are solar panels on roof, but they do not belong to you. So the question is, how much do solar cells help? How you do this will depend on how much energy you need. But it is clear that renting has benefits:
 
You do not need to spend money on walls and putting them up.

The company that owns the panels must perform all maintenance work on them.
When your rental time is over, you can buy the panels for a very low price.

How much money can solar panels save me? We can not say for sure right now. You should figure out how much your monthly power bills are and how much rent the owner company costs. You will save the difference between these two numbers. The owner has the right to raise the rent every year, so you should also keep that in mind. Depending on inflation and the price of electronics, the increase could be anywhere from 1% to 5% of the amount.

Do you save money on solar panels if you lease them? If that happens, you should be ready for the property's value to stay the same. If you want to sell your house, for example, you can expect to get a lot more money if you have solar panels installed and do not need to connect to any outside power grids.

People who want to buy your house may ask do solar panels save money if you have a lease signed. Give clear examples. Because homes with their own batteries cost a lot more, you might be interested in the next owner. And if you rent your batteries, the new owners can just renew your deal.
 
By signing a solar energy purchase agreement, is it possible to lower your electricity costs?

A solar energy purchase agreement (PPA) is not the same as renting panels. The only thing they have in common is that you will not own the walls that are put up. If you rent, you only pay a set rent and an extra bill from the utilities in case you use more energy than you planned. With PPA, you pay the same amount for electricity as usual, but at a better rate. And the company that owns the batteries sends the bill, not the power company.

 
How much money does it save with solar, though? We can use some rough numbers to help you figure out if solar panels really do save you money. Your rate from an energy company, for instance, is $0.15 per kWh. You pay $150 a month for your electricity bills because your home uses 1,000 kWh.
 
Like when you have panels on your roof that do not belong to you. Electricity from them costs one cent per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
 
This means that solar panels save $50 a month. Twelve thousand dollars can be saved over twenty years.
 
At the same time, you do not have to pay to set up or maintain the system.
 
At the same time, you do not have to pay to set up or maintain the system. But you cannot get help from the government if the panels do not actually belong to you.
 
Some companies offer how to save money with solar panels all year long at the end of the PPA. That is, to make up for the fact that solar energy is too abundant in the summer and not enough in the winter. This is written into the contract and can only happen if the panels make more power than the house needs during a time of high solar energy.

 
Conclusion
It is tough to say how much cash solar panels for home save you. Each case needs to be calculated on its own. There are different perks for a farm depending on whether it buys or rents panels and PPAs. Are solar panels going to save me money? Without a doubt. But it is hard to say for sure what will be easier and more rewarding for you. Calculating each option should be left to professionals, and you should also think about all of the pros and cons of each choice listed above.

RED LODGE, MONTANA  – In 2021, Montana firefighter Dan Steffensen faced a wall of fire moving at sixty miles per hour. The flames engulfed him, burning over 60% of his body. Many believed his story would end tragically, but against all odds, Dan not only survived but triumphed, showcasing the indomitable resilience of the human spirit.

Burned Over! is the captivating tale of Dan’s harrowing ordeal and his inspiring journey back to the frontlines of firefighting. Penned by acclaimed author A.J. Otjen, this compelling narrative takes readers through the heart-stopping moments of Dan's brush with death and the overwhelming support he received from the people around him.

Back on the firefighting roster and dedicating his time to supporting fellow burn survivors, Dan’s story is one of unwavering perseverance and the pursuit of one’s true calling. His story serves as a reminder that even in the face of unimaginable adversity, there is always strength to be found within ourselves and the communities that surround us.

A.J. Otjen is a seasoned marketing professor at Montana State University in Billings. With over two decades of experience as a marketing executive, she has also authored numerous articles and children's books, recognized by Indian Education for All, and chosen for award recognition in 2023 by the Library of Congress.

Burned Over! The Survival of Montana Firefighter Dan Steffensen (ISBN: 978-1-59152-345-1, Sweetgrass Books, 2024) is available in softcover at various local retailers, as well as online and Farcountry Press at (800) 821-3874, farcountrypress.com.

The Arts Council of Big Sky is pleased to announce another incredible summer of Music in the Mountains at Center Stage in Len Hill Park in Big Sky. Starting on June 20 and ending on September 12, there will be 13 concerts, all of which are free and open to the public. This year marks the 15th anniversary of hosting Music in the Mountains in Len Hill Park.            

“We’re grateful to be able to bring another season of Music in the Mountains to the Big Sky Community,” says Brian Hurlbut, the Arts Council’s Executive Director. “We think our audience is going to be thrilled with this year’s lineup, which features a mix of returning favorites and exciting new artists.”             

The popular series will again present a variety of genres to appeal to all tastes. From blues to bluegrass, Americana to funk and soul, this summer will surely be another memorable one in Big Sky.

The full schedule includes the Jeff Crosby Band on June 20; Cool Cool Cool on June 27; the Tiny Band on July 4; El Laberinto del Coco on July 11; The Wood Brothers on July 18; Mikaela Davis on July 25; Carolyn Wonderland on August 1; Doom Flamingo on August 8; Erica Falls and Vintage Soul on August 15; Fruition on August 22; The Lil Smokies on August 29; Pinky and the Floyd on September 5. Once again the season will conclude with the second annual Metal in the Mountains festival on September 12, featuring Metallica tribute band Blistered Earth and local rockers Scavenger. A free performance of Montana Shakespeare in the Parks will also take place in the Town Center Plaza on July 27.           

The Arts Council is again partnering with the Spanish Peaks Community Foundation to present the Emerging Artist Series, which features local and regional opening artists for each concert. This year’s performers include Mike Murray on June 20; Gilda House on June 27; DJ Chedda on July 4; Cruz Contreras on July 11; Buffalo Burrows on July 18; Jacob Rountree and the Somethings on July 25; Emma and the Ledge on August 1; Moth on August 8; Jazz Cabbage on August 15; Tuesday Night Rodeo Club on August 22; and North Fork Crossing on August 29.            

The family friendly events take place at Center Stage in Len Hill Park, one of the best outdoor venues in the state, right in the heart of Big Sky. The park opens at 6 p.m. each week, and there will be food and beverage vendors and a free arts activity tent for kids. Music typically starts at 6:30 p.m. with the headliner following at 8 p.m. Please remember that no dogs or glass containers are allowed in the park, and although attendees are allowed to bring their own food and alcohol into the park, please remember to be kind and respectful to others around you.             

For more information on the summer lineup and to check out what other events the Arts Council has going on, please visit bigskyarts.org.

BOZEMAN, Montana (May 30, 2024)—The Bozeman Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in locating Nathan Moore, a 33-year-old male reported missing on Wednesday, May 1, 2024. The Bozeman Police Department received the initial report and has been partnering with the Gallatin County Sheriff’s Office and its Search and Rescue team.

On May 26, a U.S. Forest Service Officer recovered property belonging to Moore from a bear-proof storage container at the Blackmore Campground, located next to Hyalite Reservoir. Gallatin County Sherriff’s Search and Rescue team conducted an extensive search of the area, using search dogs, drones, and boats, but ultimately could not locate Moore.

Both agencies request that anyone with information that could lead to his safe return contact the Bozeman Police Department. Moore is 6’1” tall, weighs 185 pounds, and has blonde hair and hazel-colored eyes. He is not believed to be driving a vehicle.

“If anyone sees Moore or finds personal property, like a bicycle or backpack, which may be related to his disappearance, please let us know,” says Detective Spencer Jenkins with the Bozeman Police Department. “Every piece of information, no matter how small, could be a key detail leading to his whereabouts.”

To report information, contact Detective Jenkins at sjenkins@bozeman.net or 406-582-2224.

BOZEMAN – The Western Transportation Institute at Montana State University is once again hosting its GoGallatin Challenge to encourage individuals and teams throughout the Gallatin Valley to change how they view their commutes by carpooling, biking, walking or using public transportation.

This year’s fifth annual contest has been extended from three to four weeks and will take place from June 3–28. Matthew Madsen, technical research associate at the Western Transportation Institute, said the event is designed to discourage people from making single vehicle trips, thereby saving time and money while reducing emissions.

“We have options for biking, walking, carpooling, taking Streamline (bus), we have pogo sticking and scootering. Any way you want to switch up your commute is the goal,” Madsen said. “It’s not just to and from work. We’re trying to get people to rethink how they commute, especially during the summer.”

GoGallatin is a project created by the Western Transportation Institute, which is housed in MSU’s Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering.

Anyone who lives or works in Gallatin County can enter the competition for free. Teams or individuals can win by logging the most trips. Individuals can also log their miles and win prizes from businesses in the county.

The end of the GoGallatin challenge coincides with the Festival of Bikes and Bike to Work Day on June 28. The Festival of Bikes, featuring food trucks, a beer garden, live music, raffles and representation by local bike shops, will be held in Bozeman’s Bogert Park from 5 to 9 p.m. On Bike to Work Day, from 7-10 a.m., participants will receive free coffee and a light snack at stations throughout Bozeman; details will come in the following weeks.

Key partners for this year's GoGallatin Challenge are the city of Bozeman, Streamline, Big Sky SNO, MSU’s Office of Sustainability, the Downtown Bozeman Partnership and many Gallatin Valley businesses.

More information and online registration are available at GoGallatin.org.