Bitterroot Star News Today

Michael Howell, a longtime valley resident and co-founder of the Bitterroot Star newspaper, made his initial court appearance Wednesday. He pleaded not guilty.

The Republican incumbent officially enters the 2024 race opposite Democratic challenger Jesse Mullen.

Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen announced her 2024 bid for re-election last week, setting the stage for a campaign battle between the incumbent Repu

"I am truly passionate about having safe and secure elections and I understand the reality of how that work gets done on a county level," Mullen said.

"I am truly passionate about having safe and secure elections and I understand the reality of how that work gets done on a county level," Mullen said.

PLUS: Grizzlies stretching their legs

Fundraiser for Michael Howell set for Saturday.

In Montana we have a unique law that says anybody can fish or recreate on the state's streams and rivers below the high-water mark — regardless of who owns the land beneath them. How did Montana end up with this exceptional level of stream access, and what does the law's future look like? Find out now on The Big Why.

Earlier this month, a chapter of Montana journalism history came to a close when Brian and LeAnne Kavanagh sold the Cut Bank Pioneer Press, Shelby Promoter, Browning Glacier Reporter and the Valierian, ending a century of Kavanagh newspaper ownership.

Quiet colorful nights in the Bitterroot Valley for Christmas.