Northern News Network Headlines

Forbes Recognizes Stockman Bank, CEO Bill Coffee Reflects on Banking, Economy, Agriculture

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Stockman Bank was recently named to the Forbes list of the world’s best banks for 2026, marking the fifth consecutive year the 73-year-old Montana institution has appeared in the rankings. Among U.S. institutions, just 72 banks were included in the rankings this year. Stockman Bank is the only bank headquartered in Montana to make the list. CE...

Should Montana’s PSC be Elected or Appointed?

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By Tom Schultz A growing policy debate in Montana centers on a fundamental question of governance: should the state’s Public Service Commission remain elected by voters, or transition to an appointed regulatory body? The discussion is expected to surface during the 2027 legislative session, where lawmakers are considering a proposal that would...

Montana’s Industrial Heritage: The Tallest Brick Structure in the World!

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Written by Cody Ross Discover Montana’s Historic Icon: The Anaconda Smoke Stack Perched above the landscape of Anaconda, Montana, the towering silhouette of the Anaconda Smoke Stack commands attention. Standing at an impressive 585 feet, it is the tallest free-standing brick structure in the world—a relic from Montana’s industrious past. Built...

Iran Conflict Raises Energy Concerns as Montana Pipeline Faces Review

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Global Conflict Highlights Strain on Energy Supply Chains Instability in the Middle East is once again putting pressure on global energy markets, underscoring the importance of reliable transportation infrastructure for oil and gas. During a recent interview on Voices of Montana, Montana Petroleum Association Executive Director Sonny Capece sa...

Inherited Shame and Pain: The Tragedy of Child Abuse

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By Ken Adelblue Northern News Network BILLINGS, Mont. (April 2, 2026) — April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness and strengthening families to ensure children grow up in safe, supportive environments. Ken Adelblue of the Northern News Network spoke with Bill Kennedy of the Family Tree Nurturing Cent...

NorthWestern Energy Proposes New Tariff to Protect Montana Customers

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Montana Data Centers | NorthWestern Energy A New Framework for Large Energy Consumers NorthWestern Energy has formalized a request to the Montana Public Service Commission for a new Large New Load Tariff, designed to support Montana’s economic growth and ensure a reliable energy future. This proposed framework aims to balance the service needs...