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?
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...
From Free Speech to Citizenship, the 411 on Key Cases Before the High Court
Supreme Court Decisions Spotlight Free Speech and Birthright Citizenship Two high‑profile U.S. Supreme Court cases were on the Voices of Montana docket as host Tom Schultz was joined by Derek Oestreicher, Chief Legal Counsel and Director of Government Affairs for the Montana Family Foundation. Together, they unpacked the implications of a majo...
Montana’s Industrial Heritage: The Tallest Brick Structure in the World!
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...
Operation Lifesaver in Montana: Promoting Rail Safety for All
Written by Cody Ross Northern News Network A Mission to Prevent Collisions and Fatalities Railroad safety is a vital concern across Montana’s expansive landscapes, where open spaces can sometimes lull drivers and pedestrians into a false sense of security. To address this, Operation Lifesaver, a non-profit organization, works tirelessly to edu...
Iran Conflict Raises Energy Concerns as Montana Pipeline Faces Review
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
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
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...
Giving That Lasts: How Local Philanthropy Is Shaping Montana’s Future
The Power of a Small Act of Generosity Sometimes it’s a small moment that changes a life — a word of encouragement, a helping hand, or a neighbor who believes in someone’s potential. That idea was at the heart of a recent Voices of Montana conversation about the Montana Community Foundation and the power of local giving. The statewide nonprofi...
2026 Season in Virginia City and Nevada City
Montana Announces Exciting 2026 Season in Virginia City and Nevada City Courtesy of Montana Heritage Commission “Historic view of Virginia City, a reminder of the town’s rich past.” The Montana Department of Commerce and Montana Heritage Commission have officially announced the concessionaires for the 2026 summer season in Vi...