Read the latest news from regional and global sources, presenting different voices and perspectives.

Residents challenge Montana septic system law in new lawsuit
BIG SKY, Mont. – A new lawsuit has been filed against the Montana Department of Environmental Quality challenging a state law on pollution control. The Upper Missouri Waterkeeper filed the lawsuit questioning the constitutionality of a law that...

EPA ruling: Gov. Gordon applauds reversing Biden-era rule changes
By Marie Hamilton, marie.hamilton@pcrecordtimes.com CHEYENNE – Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon announced his support for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to repeal the Biden-Harris EPA Regulations for power plants. In a press...
What parents should know about summer camp safety after Texas tragedy
Off to camp. It’s an American summer classic. Children get to sleep in cabins and learn to canoe. And parents get a chance for a break of their own, expecting their loved ones are safe in rustic surroundings. But tragedy is unpredictable and can...

Five more rivers in central, SW Montana get hoot-owl restrictions
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is instituting new hoot-owl restrictions on rivers in the southwest and central Montana beginning Thursday, in response to warm temperatures and low streamflows across the state. The fishing restrictions prohibit...

eric burlison criticizes federal policies and calls for transparency
Rep. Eric Burlison, U.S. Representative for Missouri's 7th District | Twitter WebsiteRep. Eric Burlison, U.S. Representative for Missouri's 7th District | Twitter Website Eric Burlison, a U.S. Congressman representing Missouri's 7th district since...

Rep. Mark Alford discusses task force deployment and legislative priorities
Rep. Mark Alford, currently serving Missouri’s 4th district in the U.S. Congress since 2023, has recently shared several statements via social media addressing current events and legislative efforts.On July 7, 2025, Alford announced that "Missouri...

Liberty boy battling cancer competes for national junior ranger title
Atticus, a nine-year-old boy from Liberty, Missouri, is competing to become a junior ranger with the National Wildlife Federation. But what's more inspiring is that he's competing while undergoing treatment for B-cell lymphoma. Despite the...

Conservation group challenges DEQ approval of septic systems near Big Sky
The Montana Department of Environmental Quality approved four new septic systems for a residential and commercial development along Highway 191 near the town of Big Sky. Septic systems can increase nutrient pollution that can deteriorate water...
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Mattress chain store operating in five states files for bankruptcy
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our...

Teacher recruitment program on the chopping block after Mo. governor cuts $300M from state budget
MISSOURI (KFVS) - Recruiting new teachers may become more difficult for Missouri schools after the governor cut some programs from the state budget. Missouri’s fiscal year starts Tuesday, just one day after the governor signed a $50.8 billion...
2025 Top Retirement Plan Adviser: Brian Allen
This year, PLANADVISER followed up with advisers on the 2025 Top Retirement Plan Advisers listing to get to know them better. These are the responses from Brian Allen of Pension Consultants, Inc. in Springfield, Missouri. PLANADVISER: What does it...
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Netflix announces longest-running unscripted show is ending after 10th season
Your support helps us to tell the story From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our...
What sets Texas floods apart: Kids died in heart-wrenching numbers
“Disasters last a very long time in the lives of children,” Fothergill said. “They are incredibly vulnerable in so many ways.” Military personnel carry a child’s camp trunk salvaged downriver from Camp Mystic along the Guadalupe River.Credit:...

Luxury retailer Nordstrom closing stores in two states by end of August
Nordstrom is shutting down two of its stores by the end of August as the company tries to keep afloat. The retail industry faces several headwinds, from a challenging economic climate to shifting consumer behavior. Saint Louis Galleria Nordstrom...

Top Performers in Summer Baseball Leagues as of July 8
The Missouri State Bears baseball players are making a mark in various summer leagues, showcasing their skills through early July. Not all players opted for summer leagues, but those participating have delivered impressive performances, with...

These 3 things pushed American Mattress to file Chapter 11 bankruptcy
ELK GROVE VILLAGE, Ill. – A challenging business environment, election year uncertainty and large line changeovers from two key mattress vendors and the cost incurred to reset its showroom floors contributed to American Mattress’ Chapter 11...

Special Interim Committee on Property Tax Reform begins work
Dale Wright, Missouri State Representative Submitted photo MO HOUSE REPRESENTATIVE, DALE WRIGHT CAPITOL REPORT The Missouri House of Representatives formed a Special Committee during interim on Property Tax Reform in order to evaluate our state’s...

10 of the smartest cat breeds to keep you on your toes
Keen to add one of the smartest cat breeds to your family? You've come to the right place! While all cats are unique and have their own individual personality, some breeds are known for being particularly intelligent and easy to train. Expert vet...

Canadian Homebuyers Less Interested in U.S. Properties, Redfin Finds
The U.S. provides a convenient market for Canadian buyers seeking a warmer climate, whether as vacation homes or for a permanent residence. But Canadian Redfin users searching for a home are showing signs of lessened interest in buying American,...

Here are 11 most scenic towns in Kansas
WorldAtlas recently published a list of the 11 most scenic towns in Kansas. These towns offer a variety of outdoor activities and natural beauty, from hiking trails to tranquil lakes. Several towns are located near state parks, providing...