An inflammatory statement by an Oregon state senator has encouraged a militia organization's members to insert themselves in a situation where they are neither needed nor wanted. This is of importance to Montanans because a similar militia activity in Oregon in 2016 elicited the sympathies of at least one prominent Montana elected official. Here’s the background. A bill … [Read more...] about Montana Viewpoint: Oregon legislators’ flight incites vigilantes across the West

While California may have a population nearly 40 times greater than Montana, utility consumers are still subject to the same vulnerabilities. With current technology, the best way to protect utility customers from an energy shortage is through an increase in available, reliable baseload power. Out-of-state and foreign interests are applying increased pressure on lawmakers … [Read more...] about PSC Chairman: Montana must increase reliable baseload power, or risk brown-outs

It was a massive undertaking for its day. When construction began in late 1890, it was estimated Missoula’s “Union block” would cost $100,000 by the time it was completed. This past week, current owner Nick Caras, with help from David Gray of DVG Architecture and Planning, peeled back some of the cheap tin facade applied in the 1960s to reveal what Gray described to … [Read more...] about Harmon’s Histories: Downtown Missoula’s Union block an architectural treasure, then and now

The rented campus bikes and university-issued helmets have become a common sight in Missoula, as much a part of the summer hustle as First Friday strollers and station wagons of inner tubes caravanning upriver. The University of Montana’s many summer institutes, exchanges and fellowship programs attract students from far and wide to learn about the state's unique climate … [Read more...] about Sustainable Missoula: Sustainability is a culture that includes and responds, UM institute teaches

It was a scandalous Montana murder case. With a cast of high-profile characters caught in a web of infidelity and jealousy, it was worthy of a titillating novel. Ed Hart and his wife Eva arrived in Red Lodge about 1900. Hart, described as a “dashing barber,” quickly found employment at a local tonsorial parlor operated by Jack Wilkes. Mrs. Hart, meantime, opened a … [Read more...] about Harmon’s Histories: A slew of Montana scandals from the early 1900s