Montana
Alpine Air CEO questions Postal Service data for air service in Montana • Daily Montanan
The U.S. Postal Service said it shifted the majority of mail in Montana that was going through air to ground transport several months ago, but the chief executive of the air transport company said the federal agency relied on bad data to do so.
Alpine Air CEO Michael Dancy said this week he doesn’t believe the Postal Service will be able to meet its own standards for one- or two-day mail either despite its pledges to do so.
“I think they’ve just decided that it’s OK to fail delivery standards in the state of Montana,” Dancy said.
Alpine Air has worked with the Postal Service in Montana for some 35 years.
A spokesperson for the Postal Service said again that it isn’t changing Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express in Montana.
“The contract move was simply to transition to more reliable surface transportation,” said spokesperson Kim Frum in an email.
Last month, the Postal Service abruptly stopped air service in Montana and then went silent in the midst of air cargo negotiations with Alpine Air despite the company’s offer to reduce its contract by $3 million.
The Postal Service has been in financial trouble, and in 2021, it released a plan to get its budget on track and, it said, “forge a bold vision for transformation” and provide “service excellence.”
It had projected a loss of $160 billion during the course of 10 years. Its plan, which included reductions in air service and investments in ground transportation, estimated a net income of $0.2 billion instead.
But implementation in Montana has been fraught with controversy.
Both U.S. Sens. Jon Tester, a Democrat, and Steve Daines, a Republican, have urged the Postal Service to reverse course in the decision about air service and have been critical of other effects on Montana.
“Once again, it appears that the USPS is turning its back on rural America and attempting to solve its budget woes on the backs of our nation’s rural citizens,” said Tester in a July 18 letter to the Postmaster Louis DeJoy.
But the Postal Service stepped away from negotiations anyway, and Dancy said since then, he took a closer look at the federal agency’s plan, “Delivering for America.” And he said he found it lacking when it comes to information about air transport.
For one thing, he said, the data about air transport reflects information for all air carriers, not just postal carriers, and it doesn’t reflect Alpine Air’s record in Montana.
The report described air transport as “very unreliable,” and it said the following: “Air transport has major uncertainties and risks (weather, flight delays, etc.) that can drastically impede service performance.”
Before the pandemic, it said ground transportation met a 92% on-time performance rate, but air transportation had 89.4% on-time performance.
Dancy, however, said Alpine Air counts a 99% on-time rate, and it produced the same even during the pandemic, when it was deemed an essential service.
The Postal Service’s plan, however, doesn’t make note of the 99% rate. The agency spokesperson said its plan “looks at the network as a whole and does not single out specific providers/states.”
Dancy also questioned the ability of ground transportation to deliver top service in the winter given Montana’s weather and roads, a factor Tester noted in his letter as well.
In its plan, the Postal Service said it will invest another $11 million in vehicles, but this week, the agency did not provide the Daily Montanan performance data for ground transportation related to Montana.
“Unfortunately, your request for ground data is not publicly available information,” Frum said. “However, what I can tell you is in keeping with the DFA plan, the majority of the mail for this contractor, much like others nationwide, was transitioned to existing ground transport several months ago.
“The remaining minimal volume wasn’t enough to justify continuing the service.”
The Postal Service did not directly address whether it can continue to meet delivery standards during the winter months or when mailing distances are on the longer side, such as across the country.
Last week, as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, Tester secured provisions for rural postal service in the appropriations package. Those include language directing the Postal Service to provide a briefing regarding the end of air service contracts that affect priority and express mail in Montana and other rural states.
Dancy, for one, is skeptical one- or two-day service is still possible in a state the size of Montana.
“There’s just no way they can do that,” he said. “And they know there’s no way they can do that. But that’s what they’re representing.”
Here’s a quick look at our top stories for Monday, 3, 2025:
Watch the latest weather forecast
Forecast for Monday, Nov. 3, 2025
TOP HEADLINES:
Cats and plants team up to help Montana’s mental health crisis
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Steve Daines visits Montana This Morning on Halloween 2025
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THAT’S INTERESTING:
Historical Facts, Events, Notable Births and Deaths for November 3
Major Historical Events
1903 – Panama Declares Independence from Colombia The most significant event of November 3rd occurred in 1903 when Panama declared independence from Colombia with U.S. backing. This revolution was engineered by Panamanian nationalists supported by the Panama Canal Company and given tacit approval by President Theodore Roosevelt. The U.S. warship USS Nashville had arrived in Colón on November 2nd, and Colombian forces were prevented from crushing the rebellion. Only one person died in the revolution – Wong Kong Yee of China, who was mortally wounded when the Colombian gunboat Bogotá fired shells on Panama City.
1918 – Armistice Ending World War I The armistice ending World War I was signed in Compiègne, France, marking the end of one of history’s deadliest conflicts.
1957 – Sputnik 2 Launched The Soviet Union launched Sputnik 2, carrying Laika, a female Siberian Husky, becoming the second spacecraft to carry a living animal and heightening Cold War tensions.
1900 – First U.S. Auto Show The first-ever U.S. Auto Show opened at New York’s Madison Square Garden, showcasing 160 vehicles. Interestingly, consumers of the time favored steam- and battery-powered vehicles over noisy internal combustion engines.
1992 – Bill Clinton Elected President Democrat Bill Clinton was elected as the 42nd President of the United States, defeating incumbent President George H.W. Bush.
Scientific and Technological Breakthroughs
- 1817 – The first steam-powered ferry service began operation between New York and Hoboken, New Jersey
- 1935 – Chemistry Nobel Prize awarded to Frédéric Joliot and Irène Joliot-Curie for synthesizing new isotopes
- 1977 – Tandy Corporation released the TRS-80 Model I, one of the first mass-produced personal computers
- 1992 – IBM Simon, the first smartphone, was unveiled at COMDEX
- 2004 – European Space Agency successfully landed the Rosetta spacecraft’s Philae probe on comet 67P/Churyumov–Gerasimenko
Cultural and Entertainment Events
- 1928 – Disney’s “Steamboat Willie,” featuring Mickey Mouse, premiered in New York City
- 1954 – The original “Godzilla” film, directed by Ishirō Honda, was released in Japan
- 1956 – “The Nat King Cole Show” premiered on NBC, making television history as the first national TV show hosted by an African American
- 1986 – Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical “The Phantom of the Opera” had its world premiere in London’s West End
- 2017 – Taylor Swift released her sixth studio album “Reputation,” which became the year’s best-selling album in the United States
Political Milestones
- 1868 – Ulysses S. Grant elected as 18th President of the United States
- 1970 – Salvador Allende became President of Chile, the first democratically elected Marxist leader in Latin America
- 1979 – The Greensboro Massacre occurred when Ku Klux Klansmen and neo-Nazis killed five members of the Communist Workers Party during a “Death to the Klan” rally in North Carolina
Notable Births (November 3)
Historical Figures:
- 1794 – William Cullen Bryant, American poet and journalist
- 1801 – Karl Baedeker, German publisher known for travel guidebooks
- 1900 – André Malraux, French novelist and art historian
Entertainment:
- 1918 – Bob Feller, legendary American baseball pitcher
- 1921 – Charles Bronson, American actor known for “The Magnificent Seven” and “Death Wish”
- 1949 – Anna Wintour, British-American journalist and Vogue editor-in-chief
- 1954 – Adam Ant, English singer and musician
- 1957 – Dolph Lundgren, Swedish actor and martial artist (“Rocky IV”)
- 1987 – Colin Kaepernick, NFL quarterback known for his social justice activism
- 1995 – Kendall Jenner, American model and television personality
Notable Deaths (November 3)
Scientists and Intellectuals:
- 1879 – James Clerk Maxwell, Scottish physicist and mathematician who formulated the theory of electromagnetic radiation
- 1950 – George Bernard Shaw, Irish playwright, critic, and Nobel Prize winner
- 1979 – Dennis Gabor, Hungarian-British physicist and Nobel laureate, inventor of holography
Artists and Cultural Figures:
- 1466 – Donatello, Italian Renaissance sculptor and artist
- 1755 – Montesquieu, French political philosopher
- 2014 – Acker Bilk, English clarinetist and composer
Fun Facts for November 3
- November 3rd is celebrated as Sandwich Day in honor of John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, who is credited with inventing the sandwich
- This date has been particularly significant for independence movements – besides Panama in 1903, Dominica gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1978
- The Washington Monument was completed in 1884
- NASA successfully launched TIROS-1, the first weather satellite, in 1960
Parts of this story were converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.
Montana
Big Sky Joins New York City, Palm Beach, Taos, Houston and Many US Cities in Tiding a New Wave of Luxury Hotels Turbocharging American Travel and Hospitality Industry – Travel And Tour World
Published on
November 3, 2025
By: Tuhin Sarkar
Big Sky, Montana, is joining a prestigious list of cities such as New York City, Palm Beach, Taos, and Houston, all of which are paving the way for a brand-new wave of luxury hotels in US Hospitality industry. This surge of new hotels is set to turbocharge the American travel industry, transforming how tourists experience the U.S. From the bustling streets of New York to the serene landscapes of Big Sky, these cities are embracing this exciting shift.
The opening of these luxury hotels in key locations is not just changing the US tourism landscape but also revitalizing the hospitality industry. As each city introduces its own blend of opulence, the hotel industry is being pushed to new heights. These developments promise to attract travelers from around the world, eager to experience the next chapter in luxury travel. Keep reading to explore how these new hotels are set to redefine American travel!
The US hotel industry is about to experience a thrilling transformation. The new wave of luxury hotels opening across America in 2025 and 2026 is going to change the entire landscape of the US tourism market. With incredible new developments, cutting-edge design, and world-class facilities, these hotels are setting the stage for a tourism boom. If you’re a fan of new hotels, the hospitality industry will soon have some jaw-dropping choices to offer, all catering to the evolving tastes and demands of modern travelers.
In this report, we’ll take you through the exciting new luxury hotels opening in the US in 2025 and 2026. We’ll also explore how these upcoming establishments will reshape the US tourism sector, impacting everything from travel industry trends to hospitality standards. So buckle up—this is going to be a thrilling ride through the future of US hotels!
City
Hotel / Brand
Year
Key notes
New York City, NY
Waldorf Astoria New York (renovation)
2025
Iconic Midtown property after major restoration.
Big Sky, Montana
One&Only Moonlight Basin
2025
U.S. debut of the One&Only brand in a resort setting.
Palm Beach, Florida
The Vineta Hotel (Oetker Collection)
2025
Luxury conversion/re‑opening of historic property.
Houston, Texas
Hotel Saint Augustine
2025
Boutique luxury opening in Montrose neighbourhood.
Taos, New Mexico
Hotel Willa
2025
Mountain‑destination luxury hotel.
Boulder, Colorado
Limelight Boulder
2025
250‑room luxury lifestyle hotel opening fall 2025.
Jacksonville, Florida
Four Seasons Hotel & Private Residences Jacksonville
2026
New flagship luxury hotel plus residences. (Four Seasons)
Washington, D.C.
Four Seasons Private Residences Washington, D.C.
2026
Luxury urban living concept in Georgetown area. (Four Seasons)
Las Vegas, Nevada
The Vanderpump Hotel
2026
Boutique luxury hotel renovation of existing property on the Strip.
Seattle, Washington
The Langham, Seattle
2026 (projected)
High‑rise luxury hotel project, though subject to delay.
The US Hotel Industry: A Glimpse into the Future of Hospitality and Tourism
In the coming years, the US tourism industry is going to soar to new heights, thanks in large part to an explosion of luxury hotels opening across the country. These new hotels are not just places to stay; they are full-fledged experiences designed to captivate travelers from around the globe. From state-of-the-art amenities to stunning architectural designs, these hotels are setting new standards for the hospitality industry.
Across major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Houston, the future of luxury travel looks brighter than ever. These new hotels are creating jobs, boosting tourism, and reshaping the entire travel industry. The hotel industry is about to get a makeover like never before, with a focus on ultra-luxury, sustainability, and unrivaled guest experiences.
New York City’s Iconic Waldorf Astoria: A Historic Hotel Reborn in 2025
New York City’s Waldorf Astoria is one of the most iconic hotels in the world, and it’s about to undergo a jaw-dropping transformation. Slated for a grand reopening in 2025, this legendary hotel is getting a complete renovation, breathing new life into its historic walls. The newly reimagined Waldorf will offer 375 luxurious guestrooms, expansive spa services, and unrivaled views of the Manhattan skyline.
As one of the most awaited new hotels opening in the US, the revamped Waldorf Astoria will be the crown jewel of US hotels. This will be a game-changer for the hotel industry as it combines its historic elegance with modern opulence. It’s not just a hotel; it’s a symbol of New York’s timeless glamour, ready to take the US tourism market by storm.
One&Only Moonlight Basin in Montana: A Mountain Retreat Like No Other
Luxury meets adventure in Big Sky, Montana, with the highly anticipated opening of One&Only Moonlight Basin in 2025. This resort will be the US tourism industry’s latest gem, combining rugged mountain landscapes with world-class luxury. The One&Only brand, known for its exclusive and top-tier offerings, is making its U.S. debut at this breathtaking location.
This ultra-luxurious resort will feature top-notch amenities, including an 18-hole golf course, an indulgent spa, and gourmet dining experiences. Guests will be able to unwind in the lap of luxury while immersing themselves in the beauty of Montana’s wilderness. One&Only Moonlight Basin is a dream come true for those looking to combine relaxation with an adrenaline-filled vacation, marking a massive shift in the hospitality industry.
The Vineta Hotel in Palm Beach: Oetker Collection’s Magnificent New Addition
Palm Beach, Florida, is about to get a new superstar in its luxury hotel scene with the opening of The Vineta Hotel in early 2025. This exclusive addition to the Oetker Collection promises to elevate the US tourism landscape to new heights. The Vineta Hotel is set to offer sophisticated elegance with a modern twist, blending classic luxury with contemporary design.
Expect oceanfront views, impeccable service, and unparalleled facilities, making this one of the most sought-after luxury hotels in the country. The Vineta will attract the elite from around the world, positioning Palm Beach as a top destination in the US hotel scene. Its arrival is sure to cause waves in the hotel industry, redefining what a luxury vacation looks like in Florida.
Four Seasons Hotel Jacksonville: A New Era of Luxury Living in Florida
In 2026, Four Seasons is set to open its highly anticipated hotel and private residences in Jacksonville, Florida. This exciting development will bring a new era of luxury to the city, with 5-star amenities, stunning architecture, and a range of exclusive private residences. Jacksonville, long considered a hidden gem in the US tourism sector, is now poised to become a major player in the luxury travel market.
Four Seasons’ entry into the Jacksonville market is a clear indication that the hospitality industry is turning its attention to cities that were once overshadowed by bigger, more established destinations. This new hotel will bring world-class luxury to Jacksonville, providing a fresh option for those seeking an elevated travel experience.
Las Vegas: The Vanderpump Hotel Set to Take Over the Strip in 2026
Las Vegas is no stranger to big names and extravagant hotels, but in 2026, it will welcome a brand-new addition—the Vanderpump Hotel. This boutique hotel is set to be a luxury playground for those looking for a one-of-a-kind experience on the Las Vegas Strip. Designed by the famous Lisa Vanderpump, this hotel will be an oasis of elegance, with top-tier dining, opulent suites, and a nightlife experience that rivals anything currently available.
The Vanderpump Hotel will undoubtedly shake up the US hotel market, attracting visitors from across the globe who want to be part of a new luxury experience in Las Vegas. Its opening will mark a significant shift in the hotel industry as it caters to a growing demand for high-end, boutique hotel experiences.
Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore in Santa Barbara: A Grand Reopening in 2026
The historic Biltmore Santa Barbara, part of the Four Seasons portfolio, is undergoing a grand renovation and is set to reopen in 2026. This iconic resort, nestled along California’s stunning coast, will re-emerge as one of the most luxurious destinations in the world. The Biltmore has long been a favorite among celebrities and high-profile guests, and its revival promises to make it an even more attractive destination for discerning travelers.
The reopening of Four Seasons Resort The Biltmore will have a massive impact on the US tourism market, as it reintroduces a landmark property with all the modern luxuries travelers expect. The hospitality industry will undoubtedly feel the ripple effect of this rejuvenated gem.
The Future of US Hotels: Game-Changing Developments on the Horizon
As we move into 2025 and 2026, the US hotel industry will continue to evolve with these spectacular new additions. These hotels are not just about offering a place to sleep—they’re creating experiences that will shape the future of US tourism. With a focus on luxury, design, and unforgettable experiences, these hotels are setting new benchmarks for what it means to travel in style.
The hospitality industry in the US is undergoing a renaissance, and these new hotels are leading the charge. Whether you’re looking for a mountain retreat, a beachside paradise, or an urban luxury experience, the US hotel industry will have something to offer in the coming years.
The travel industry has never been more exciting, and the luxury hotels opening in 2025 and 2026 are going to change the way we think about travel. From the Waldorf Astoria to One&Only Moonlight Basin, these new hotels are the future of US tourism—and they’re waiting for you.
The Montana Lottery offers multiple draw games for those aiming to win big. Here’s a look at Nov. 1, 2025, results for each game:
Winning Powerball numbers from Nov. 1 drawing
02-26-43-44-62, Powerball: 22, Power Play: 2
Check Powerball payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Lucky For Life numbers from Nov. 1 drawing
06-19-28-38-46, Lucky Ball: 08
Check Lucky For Life payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Lotto America numbers from Nov. 1 drawing
08-11-23-31-47, Star Ball: 06, ASB: 02
Check Lotto America payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Big Sky Bonus numbers from Nov. 1 drawing
11-21-26-29, Bonus: 05
Check Big Sky Bonus payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Powerball Double Play numbers from Nov. 1 drawing
07-10-19-42-59, Powerball: 26
Check Powerball Double Play payouts and previous drawings here.
Winning Montana Cash numbers from Nov. 1 drawing
01-33-38-43-45
Check Montana Cash payouts and previous drawings here.
Feeling lucky? Explore the latest lottery news & results
When are the Montana Lottery drawings held?
- Powerball: 8:59 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
- Mega Millions: 9 p.m. MT on Tuesday and Friday.
- Lucky For Life: 8:38 p.m. MT daily.
- Lotto America: 9 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday and Saturday.
- Big Sky Bonus: 7:30 p.m. MT daily.
- Powerball Double Play: 8:59 p.m. MT on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
- Montana Cash: 8 p.m. MT on Wednesday and Saturday.
Missed a draw? Peek at the past week’s winning numbers.
Winning lottery numbers are sponsored by Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network.
Where can you buy lottery tickets?
Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.
You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Maine, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Washington D.C., and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.
Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 18+ (19+ in NE, 21+ in AZ). Physically present where Jackpocket operates. Jackpocket is not affiliated with any State Lottery. Eligibility Restrictions apply. Void where prohibited. Terms: jackpocket.com/tos.
This results page was generated automatically using information from TinBu and a template written and reviewed by a Great Falls Tribune editor. You can send feedback using this form.
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