Independents & Political Culture: A new take argues U.S. politics may be driven less by party infighting and more by record numbers of Americans identifying as independents, reshaping what happens in midterms and beyond. Montana Powwow Homecoming: The Métis Celebration and Powwow will move to Winnett for Labor Day weekend after the Fergus County Fairgrounds double-booked, keeping the long-running tradition alive. Wildlife & Public Lands Fight: After the Roadless Area Conservation Rule backlash, the Trump administration is now pushing changes to the Travel Management Rule, drawing sharp criticism from conservation groups. Native History in a New Exhibit: A Great Falls museum is opening a major exhibition on Indian boarding school records tied to Catholic-run schools near Cascade. Immigration Court Win: A federal judge ordered release of a Billings father and 9-year-old daughter from Havre, citing rights violations. UM Student Push: UM President Jeremiah Shinn’s first state-of-the-university address highlighted a fundraising push to help Montana students earn degrees. Bear Reports in Bozeman: FWP is tracking black bear sightings in town and says action depends on whether bears become food-conditioned. Ranching Community Spotlight: The Montana Stockgrowers Foundation’s TBone Classic raised $41,000+ to support ranching education, leadership, and conservation. Food Assistance Pressure: SNAP enrollment dropped sharply nationwide, with advocates warning stricter rules could cut off eligible families.