WESTERN MONTANA

Mar 21 2026POLITICS

The Hidden Costs of Montana’s State Budget

Montana’s budget reveals more than the numbers on paper. The state spends a lot of money, but much of it goes into long‑term debts that will hurt future generations. Many people think the budget is balanced, yet hidden lines show otherwise. The state’s debt has grown steadily. When lawmake

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Mar 16 2026SPORTS

High‑School Stars Shine in Western North Carolina

Western North Carolina high schools are buzzing after a week of exciting sports. Students and fans alike can now vote for the top female athlete who delivered an outstanding performance last week. The voting deadline is Thursday noon. The winner of last week’s spot was Lilly Lossiah from Cherokee,

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Feb 13 2026WEATHER

Eugene-Springfield: Bracing for a Chilly Surprise

Western Oregon, including Eugene and Springfield, might see a rare snow event next week. The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a forecast that includes the possibility of freezing temperatures and light snowfall from February 16 to February 18. This weather pattern is expected to bring a mix

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Jan 27 2026WEATHER

Chilly Days Ahead: What's in Store for Western North Carolina?

Western North Carolina is still feeling the chill after a big winter storm. The National Weather Service says it's not over yet. They warn of very cold wind chills. These can drop as low as -19 degrees. That's dangerous. Frostbite can happen quickly. So can frozen pipes. People need to be careful.

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Jan 20 2026TECHNOLOGY

Montana's Wildlife Licensing System: Time for a Tech Boost

Montana's wildlife licensing system is stuck in the past. It's like trying to use a flip phone in a world of smartphones. The current system is slow, outdated, and in desperate need of an upgrade. This isn't just about convenience; it's about efficiency and accuracy. The current system relies heavi

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Jan 14 2026POLITICS

Montana's Health Care Marketplace: What's Next?

Montana's health care marketplace is shutting down this week. This move comes as premiums remain high, leaving many people wondering what happens next. The state's senators, Steve Daines and Tim Sheehy, back a Republican plan. They want federal money to go towards health savings accounts instead of

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Jan 13 2026RELIGION

How Faith and Community Helped Asheville Bounce Back

Western North Carolina faced a huge challenge when Hurricane Helene hit on September 27, 2024. The storm caused serious damage, leaving many people without homes. Over 160 Veterans at the Veterans Restoration Quarters, run by Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), were among those

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Jan 04 2026OPINION

Montana's Green Promise: A Messy Path

Montana's constitution has some big promises about the environment. But those promises are so vague that they're causing more problems than they solve. People are suing the state, saying new laws break the constitution's guarantee of a "clean and healthful environment. " But what does that even mean

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Dec 30 2025HEALTH

Montana's Rural Hospitals Get a Financial Boost

Montana's rural hospitals are in a tough spot. Almost 90% of them are running at a loss. This is a big deal because these hospitals are often the only medical help for miles around. But there's some good news coming from the federal government. They're sending over $233 million to help these hospita

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Dec 29 2025WEATHER

Western New York Faces Wind and Snow Challenges

Western New York is bracing for a rough few days. High winds are already causing problems, and more trouble is on the way. The wind is the main issue right now. It's strongest near Rochester and areas to the west. Gusts could hit 60-70 mph during late morning and early afternoon. Even after that pe

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