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Montana’s TikTok ban leaves users, business owners reeling | CNN Business

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Montana’s TikTok ban leaves users, business owners reeling | CNN Business




CNN
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Keri Williams wouldn’t have her business without TikTok. She launched The Branded Pinto, her custom hat shop, about two years ago after a video she shared of one of her creations “blew up” on TikTok. Nearly all of her business still comes from the platform.

But earlier this week, Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte signed a bill banning TikTok in the state. Now, Williams, who lives near Montana’s largest city — Billings — is scrambling to figure out the future of her business.

“I’ve been trying to get some of the people over to Instagram in case something horrible does happen, where people suddenly can’t get to my TikTok,” she told CNN, “but I’m not really sure how it’s all going to work.”

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Over the past year, lawmakers in Washington have ratcheted up their scrutiny of TikTok, with a growing number of Congress members calling for a national ban of the short-form video app due to concerns about its ties to China through its parent company, ByteDance.

But with the bill signing this week, Montana became the first US state to impose a complete ban of the app — and almost immediately threw residents like Williams into a new era of uncertainty that could spread to other parts of the country if more states or the federal government take similar action.

The law, set to take effect in January, has already been the subject of a lawsuit by a group of TikTok users who allege it infringes on their First Amendment rights. Legal and technology experts have also raised questions about how the law can even be enforced. But some residents are still bracing for the fallout.

“It would definitely be a real kick in the face for me to, like, suddenly lose overnight,” Christian W. Poole, who calls himself the “Unofficial Ambassador for the State of Montana” on TikTok, told CNN about a ban going into effect.

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Poole has amassed a following of more than 400,000 people who tune in for his mostly Montana-themed comedy videos. Poole said he makes “grocery” money off of TikTok, but he does it as “a fun hobby” and to make friends.

If he lost all of the friends that he made over the past four years, and all of the content that he spent much of his free time creating for fellow Montanans, “That would suck,” he said.

The push to take action against TikTok has been months, if not years, in the making. Criticism of TikTok ramped up last year after a BuzzFeed News report said some US user data had been repeatedly accessed from China, and cited one employee who alleged: “Everything is seen in China.”

TikTok later confirmed that some US user data can be accessed by some employees in China, but it has repeatedly denied that the Chinese government has asked for its user data.

TikTok, like other social media platforms, has also come under scrutiny in Washington for its potential negative impacts on young users as well as fears that its algorithms may lead users to potentially harmful subject matter, including posts related to suicide and eating disorders.

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But the app’s audience appears to keep growing. TikTok said in March that it has 150 million monthly active users in the United States, up from 100 million users in 2020, when the Trump administration first threatened to ban the service.

TikTok has served as a lifeline for many to connect with others, and for businesses to reach customers. Some of these users in Montana are now frustrated with their local lawmakers.

“They just think China’s going to come and steal all of our information is what I got from everything,” Williams said after reading news of the ban. “But it’s some peoples’ actual livelihoods, and they’re just like willy-nillying it out there, with no plans and no way to enforce anything.”

“To me, I just kind of see a bunch of old men that have no idea what TikTok even is,” Williams said. “My main concern is that I just spent a bunch of money on all of my hat-making stuff, and now I’m gonna have, like, no customers.”

Taylor Reed, of Kalispell, Montana, similarly told CNN that he launched his home painting business, Reed Painting, during the pandemic with the help of TikTok. He said he taught himself how to use TikTok after reading about 60 books on marketing a small business.

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“What we found is that TikTok gave us a way to be more competitive with less advertising dollars,” he said. “It really opened up a lot of doors for us in our company,” he added, including sponsorship deals with major companies such as Benjamin Moore.

While he is still skeptical that the law will actually end up going into effect, and thinks the concerns around data privacy that lawmakers cite are “not unique to TikTok,” Reed said the signing of it this week “was a good wake-up call to diversify onto other platforms.”

He said he hasn’t been able to find the same reach on other channels like Facebook’s Reels, and also struggles to edit videos without the features in TikTok’s app, so he will likely end up hiring an outside videographer.

For now, Reed said he will continue to use TikTok “for as long as we’re able.” But, he said, “we will definitely be pushing out onto other platforms. We’re not going to pigeonhole ourselves into just this one.”

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Land Board approves 33,000-acre conservation easement in northwest Montana

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Land Board approves 33,000-acre conservation easement in northwest Montana


A proposal to put nearly 33,000 acres of working forestland in northwest Montana into a conservation easement has cleared its last major hurdle.

In a 3-1 vote on Monday, the Montana Land Board adopted language amending an agreement between timber company Green Diamond and Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks that closes the book on a conservation project that took four years and nearly $40 million to finalize.

The Montana Great Outdoors Conservation Easement is located between Kalispell and Libby and encompasses parts of the Salish and Cabinet mountains. The roughly 33,000 acres of land will be protected from development to support wildlife habitat and “key landscape connectivity,” according to FWP.

An FWP memo on the project says the easement also provides “permanent free public recreation access” to the enrolled lands while sustaining their use as a working forest.

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The U.S. Forest Service’s Montana Forest Legacy Program is putting $20 million toward the easement. Habitat Montana, a fund administered by FWP, is contributing $1.5 million, and the Trust for Public Lands coordinated another $4.2 million of financial support for the project. Finally, Green Diamond is donating about $14 million of the land’s value.

The easement is perpetual, meaning the terms of the agreement will remain in effect indefinitely, even if Green Diamond later sells the land.

In addition to supporting long-term timber harvest, the easement will confer tax benefits to Green Diamond, which owns and manages working forests in nine states throughout the southern and western U.S. According to a FAQ on the easement, Green Diamond will continue to pay local property taxes in Lincoln, Sanders and Flathead counties once the easement is recorded.

The easement faced a tumultuous path to adoption. When the Land Board first voted on it in October, WRH Nevada Properties, which owns the mineral estate beneath approximately half of the 33,000 acres, argued that the easement jeopardized its ability to develop the subsurface mineral estate.

The Montana Great Outdoors Conservation Easement is being developed as a two-phase project that will conserve nearly 83,000 acres of northwest Montana that span three counties. Credit: Courtesy Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks

Peter Scott, an attorney representing WRH and Citizens for Balanced Use, argued before the Land Board on Oct. 21 that the board would be ill-advised to authorize the easement while a lawsuit over it is pending, and given that ground-disturbing activities are “not compatible” with the Montana Forest Legacy Program’s purpose.

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“The folks that fund mineral exploration are not looking for conservation easements as part of their program,” Scott said. “In fact, they’re leaving and taking their mineral exploration money elsewhere. From their standpoint, Montana is not open for business in the context of mineral exploration.”

To help alleviate that concern, the board voted in October to draft language recognizing its intention to protect the mineral rights holders’ ability to access and develop their mineral rights within the easement’s bounds.

The board’s 3-1 vote effectively alters the easement to read that the mineral rights holders “shall not be infringed upon.” The mineral rights holder will retain the ability to “enter and use the [conserved land] for exploration, recovery and development of the minerals consistent with state law,” per the language adopted by the board.

State Superintendent and Land Board member Elsie Arntzen opposed a final vote on the easement, arguing that more discussion is needed and indicating that the state Legislature, which is set to gavel in for its biennial session next month, may be inclined to weigh in. She sought to postpone final action until at least the spring, a delay Gov. Greg Gianforte did not support for fear it would compromise the Forest Service’s $20 million contribution to the easement.

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Habitat conservation in Montana undergoing a ‘sea change’ 

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Habitat conservation in Montana undergoing a ‘sea change’ 

When Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks quietly unveiled a proposal to put Habitat Montana funds toward 30- and 40-year conservation leases, proponents described it as a “new conservation planning tool” while opponents warned of a “sea change” that could weaken one of the state’s most popular habitat protection programs.


“The staff worked with all of the concerned parties to get language that was agreeable. For us to make additional changes here, without consultation with all of the parties, would put us in a difficult position,” Gianforte said, adding that Arntzen had effectively missed her window to oppose the easement writ large.

“At this point, the easement has been approved, subject to this language,” Gianforte continued. “I feel a strong compunction to honor the local consensus which has been built around this, which I think is reflected in this modified language.”

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Arntzen also attempted to issue a “no” vote by proxy for Montana Attorney General and Land Board member Austin Knudsen. Gianforte, who chairs the Land Board, said only members who are actively present can vote.

Gianforte also struck down an amendment offered by Secretary of State and Land Board member Christi Jacobsen to make the easement subject to a 99-year term rather than perpetual.

The easement “has been granted, has been finalized,” Gianforte said. “So I would rule your amendment out of order.”

A variety of conservation and forestry-oriented organizations support the easement, arguing that it contributes to conservation and recreational objectives, and supports local economies reliant on forestry by facilitating access to a long-term timber supply. Those groups include Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, Montana Wildlife Federation, Trust for Public Land, Montana Wood Products Association, Montana Logging Association,Stimson Lumber and FH Stoltze Land & Lumber. 

A trio of current and former elected officials opposed the easement in a letter to the Land Board, arguing that more due diligence should have been done to assess the prevalence of subsurface minerals and communicate with WRH about the project. A letter signed by Rep. Steve Gunderson, R-Libby; Sen. Dan Bartel, R-Lewistown; and Kerry White, a former state representative from Bozeman who now leads Citizens for Balanced Use, a nearly 20-year-old nonprofit that calls for more motorized recreation and resource development on public land.

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The second stage of the Montana Great Outdoors Conservation Easement is still in development. It’s estimated to top 52,000 acres to the west and south of the Lost Trail National Wildlife Refuge.

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Search for missing Montana woman suspended at landfill north of Great Falls

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Search for missing Montana woman suspended at landfill north of Great Falls


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The search for a missing Conrad woman at the High Plains Landfill north of Great Falls has been suspended, the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office announced on Monday afternoon.

Alicia Wood, 46, was last seen on Nov. 22 and was reported missing on Nov. 30 to the Conrad Police Department. Wood’s car was found abandoned on the side of Highway 91 between Conrad and Brady and blood was later found inside the vehicle.

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The Montana Department of Criminal Investigation took over the case and a lead prompted a search for Wood at the landfill. The search began on Dec. 5 and lasted nine days.

“The is not a decision we took lightly, however, we feel we have conducted a thorough search of our landfill based on the information and leads provided,” Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter said in a statement.

DCI and the Pondera County Sheriff’s Office will continue to lead the investigation.

“As I said at the beginning of our search this is just one lead in this investigation. I’m confident that the Division of Criminal Investigation will continue to follow all current and future leads,” Slaughter said.

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Anyone with information about the disappearance of Alicia Woods is asked to contact the Division of Criminal Investigation by calling or 406-444-3874 or emailing contactdci@mt.gov.

The Cascade County Sheriff’s Office also thanked the numerous law enforcement and civilian agencies who assisted in the landfill search, as well as community supporters who provided meals for the search party.



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7 Most Unconventional Towns In Montana

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7 Most Unconventional Towns In Montana


Millions of Americans and visitors from all over the world come every year to Montana, and perhaps most know the Big Sky Country state for its access to renowned national parks, like Glacier and Yellowstone. But it offers so much more. A confluence of cultural forces has shaped this region — from the Native American traditions to the gold rushes — and it is that Old West spirit that Montana’s residents have proudly kept alive. In Montana, we’ve discovered seven of the most unconventional towns. They dot the Montana map, inviting visitors to experience and be fully immersed in the state’s heritage and traditions.

Philipsburg brings a bygone mining era back to life. Red Lodge is the ultimate rugged alpine experience. Bigfork is valued for its art scene and summer theater. Livingstone is the “Gateway to Yellowstone.” Virginia City is a well-preserved gold rush historical experience. Whitefish is a haven for outdoorsy types, but it also has a touch of sophistication. Fort Benton, is remembered as the “Birthplace of Montana.” Join the tour and discover how each of these towns is as unique as the landscapes they inhabit.

Philipsburg

Philipsburg, Montana. By Mark de Vries – CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Nested in a verdant valley between the Sapphire Mountains and Flint Creek is the town of Philipsburg, with its dense pine forests and alpine lakes. The downtown is marked by restored 19th-century buildings with colorful frontages. The friendly town has a nostalgic vibe with its antique shops and boutique shopping, such as the Sweet Palace, a candy store. Historical landmarks include the Opera House Theatre, built in 1891, and The Granite Country Museum, showcasing the town’s mining heritage. Sapphire mining at Gem Mountain is a unique experience. The Granite Ghost Town State Park and the annual Flint Creek Valley Days festival with its parade and live music make Philipsburg extra special.

Red Lodge

Red Lodge, Montana
Red Lodge, Montana. Editorial credit: Edward Fielding / Shutterstock.com

With access to Beartooth Highway, what has been dubbed “the most beautiful drive in America,” Red Lodge is an exceptional town. The downtown boasts of Wild West-style architecture, with saloons, eateries and art galleries. Historical landmarks are The Carbon County Historical Society and Museum, displaying the town’s ranching and mining history. Commercial attractions include the Yellowstone Wildlife Sanctuary. The town is settled at the base of the Beartooth Mountains and surrounded by rolling meadows.

Bigfork

Big Fork, Montana
Bigfork, Montana. By Jonah Libsack – CC BY-SA 4.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Enveloped by forests, rolling hills and settled along the northeastern shore of Flathead Lake is the town of Bigfork. Bigfork’s downtown blends rustic log cabins with modern designs. The charming town is lined with bistros, galleries and shops. The town has a thriving art scene, annual events like the Bigfork Festival of the Arts, brings the whole community together. Wayfarers State Park provides breathtaking views of Flathead Lake and is rich in Native American history. One thing that is special about this town is The Bigfork Summer Playhouse, a seasonal theater that has given the town the nickname “Montana’s Broadway.”

Livingston

Livingston, Montana
Livingston, Montana. By Jon Roanhaus – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons.

Downtown Livingston with its turn-of-the-century brick buildings hosting quirky cafes, bars and bookshops, presents residents and visitors with a relaxed, artsy vibe. The town is prized as a “foodie paradise” with local favorites like Fainting Goat Pub and Engine Room Deep Dish Pizza. Lying along the Yellowstone River, the small town is surrounded by the Crazy and Absaroka mountains. One thing that stands out is Livingston hosts an annual famous rodeo and has become known as the “Gateway to Yellowstone.” The Livingston Depot Center is a restored train station, which showcases the town’s railroad history. Livingston is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts with activities like fly-fishing, hiking and, of course, access to Yellowstone National Park.

Virginia City

Virginia City ghost town
Virginia City ghost town. Editorial credit: Eniko Balogh / Shutterstock.com

Once known as “Fourteen Mile City,” the gold rush era town of Virginia City is based in a valley and surrounded by sagebrush hills and the Tobacco Root Mountains. During its heyday period the town was regarded as a social center and transportation hub in the region. Today the entire town is a historic site. Something that makes Virginia City unusual is the town actors that bring the mid-1800s to life again. The small settlement feels like a well-preserved ghost town with its wooden sidewalks, saloons, and mercantile shops. Be sure not to miss the Virginia City Opera House and Alder Gulch. Visitors can pan for gold and take a historic stagecoach ride.

Whitefish

Whitefish, Montana
Whitefish, Montana. By Royalbroil – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons.

The town of Whitefish has a unique tradition, known as their annual Huckleberry Days, which celebrates the local berry. A gateway to Glacier National Park, surrounded by forests and lakes with views of Big Mountain, Whitefish is plentiful in natural beauties, with much to explore and see. The downtown combines rustic architecture with a sophisticated modern touch. Be sure to check out the Whitefish Farmers’ Market, along with the many fine dining options and boutiques. Big Mountain has the best skiing in the winter and the tail rides through Bar W Guest Ranch are second to none. No visit to Whitefish is complete without some time by or on the water. Whitefish City Beach is a great place for the whole family to play. The Great Northern Railway Depot and Whitefish Lake State Parks are historical landmarks.

Fort Benton

Fort Benton, Montana
Fort Benton, Montana. Editorial credit: Joseph Sohm / Shutterstock.com

When visitors drive past herds of antelope and deer while enjoying majestic views in all directions, they quickly come to understand why Fort Benton has been praised for its beauty by both Forbes and National Geographic Traveler. Located along the Missouri River and surrounded by rolling planes and the region’s rich agricultural land, Fort Benton is a gem of a town. Fort Benton’s downtown blends well-maintained frontier-era buildings and modern designs. Landmarks include The Lewis and Clark Memorial and the Museum of the Upper Missouri, which display the town’s role in westward expansion. Be sure to book boat tours with groups like Upper Missouri River Guides for excursions along the Missouri River that showcase views of bluffs and local wildlife.

Parting Thoughts

Montana is the fourth-largest state in the U.S., covering over 147,000 square miles. Its name comes from the Spanish word montaña, meaning “mountain,” reflecting its dramatic landscapes. The Missouri River, one of North America’s longest rivers, begins in Montana. The state experiences a range of weather, from snowy winters to warm summers. Rich in history, Montana was once home to Native American tribes like the Crow and Blackfeet. Today, it’s celebrated for its outdoor recreation, including hiking, fishing, and skiing. These seven most unconventional towns in Montana are each marked out for something special in their natures, which have become woven together into the cultural tapestry of this Old West state. From world class national parks to outstanding natural wonders to rich Native American and gold rush histories, these towns are quintessentially Montana.

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