Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 20th of August.
Good morning, Bozeman.
Twenty-year-old Anna Steigerwald from Littleton died after being struck by a train near Milwaukee Fishing Access in Three Forks last Wednesday shortly after 4:00 p.m., and Gallatin County Sheriff Dan Springer said the accident shows unmarked railroad tracks pose a serious risk—residents must exercise extra caution.
Gallatin County Sheriff's Search and Rescue rescued a stranded hiker from the Gallatin Range near Windy Pass cabin after a 911 call at 10:28 p.m. Saturday—locating the hiker at 3:40 a.m. Sunday, providing food, water and a medical check before escorting him to safety.
Spark R&D and ATK Bindings released a new tech toe for hardboot splitboarders yesterday in Bozeman, combining decades of design expertise to offer lightweight performance, durability and easy installation.
Built with Ergal 7075 aluminum and featuring integrated crampon mounts, the product is available as a stand-alone item and will be part of Spark’s 2025/26 binding line—introducing fresh options for backcountry adventures.
Gallatin County Deputies are asking for help finding Aurora Vinson, a 12-year-old girl last seen on the 3300 block of Sundance Drive in Bozeman at 8:30 a.m. on August 19 wearing a panda sweater, grey leggings, and pink tennis shoes—she is described as four-foot-nine with curly brown hair and brown eyes—and anyone with tips is urged to call 406-582-2100 extension 1.
Montana Fish, Wildlife — Parks is starting a project in Elk Creek to protect native westslope cutthroat trout by removing nonnative brook trout that outcompete them.
Crews will use rotenone beginning the week of Aug. 25 to expand the trout habitat by about 8 miles.
A wildfire called West Fork Fire was reported Tuesday evening, burning about 50 acres near the Beaver Creek Forest Service cabin in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.
Multiple agencies are responding—while a Red Flag warning remains in effect through 10 PM today, locals are advised to avoid the Taylor Fork and Beaver Creek areas.
Montana now offers a digital driver's license that lets citizens download a secure version onto their smartphone using Apple or Google Wallet.
The Montana Motor Vehicle Division says the free mobile ID is safe, easy to use, and comes with a tool for businesses to verify age+ drivers should still carry a physical license since not all places accept the digital version.
Motorcycle shop owner Seth Hazuga of Bike Shack advises riders in Bozeman to wear DOT—certified helmets, padded jackets, and leather boots for protection.
He recommends checking tire pressure weekly during summer and taking a rider safety course to reduce texting-related accidents.
Morgan Thomas Concert
7-10 p.m. — Bozeman Hot Springs — All ages welcome — Enjoy an evening of folk and jazz with songwriter Morgan Thomas in an acoustic performance.
8th Annual Montana Pitmaster Classic
5-8 p.m. — Kenyon Noble Lumber & Hardware — Proceeds support the Gallatin Valley YMCA — Celebrate BBQ with competitors from across North America in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Matcha & Blooms Class
10-11:30 a.m. — La Camionnette Coffee — $100 — Experience a serene, creative afternoon blending matcha preparation and Japanese floral design.
Valley View Rodeo
7:00 – 8:30 PM — Gallatin County Fairgrounds — Family-friendly entry — Experience thrilling rodeo events including barrel racing and live music.
Jack n Jill Marathon & Half Marathon
6:30 AM - 12:30 PM — Sacajawea Park and Tennis Courts — Registration required — A scenic marathon in Yellowstone Country that qualifies for the Boston Marathon.
Dead & Down Concert
7-10 p.m. — Bozeman Hot Springs — Check local listings — Experience an evening with the roots-rock band Dead & Down, bridging genres with their explorative sound.
IndepenDANCE Showcase
2-4 p.m. — Willson Auditorium — Free venue parking — Enjoy a lively showcase featuring over 20 unique dance performances across various styles.
5K Brew Run
6-8 p.m. — MAP Brewing Company — $10 entry — Enjoy a scenic 5K run with a finishing beer, prizes, and support for your local brewery.
Rocky Mountain Natural Building Conference Open House
4:30-6:00 p.m. — Emerson Center for the Arts & Culture — Free entry — Kick off the conference with refreshments and engaging discussions on natural building.
Livingston Bluegrass Festival 2025
5-11 p.m. — Shane Lalani Center for the Arts — Free for youth 13 and under — Experience the best of bluegrass with top acts and food from ‘Yer Nose food truck.
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