2005 News Archive

Governor increases energy assistance
The Missoulian, MT - Dec 27, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Tuesday ordered $2.5 million in one-time state funds to be spent to supplement home heating assistance for Montanans this winter.

Businesses line up for ‘Insure Montana'
The Missoulian, MT - Dec 21, 2005
Nearly 1,000 Montana small businesses and their employees will be getting a late Christmas present early next year: affordable health insurance.

Governor signs school, pension bills
Billings Gazette, USA - Dec 20, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer signed legislation Monday finalizing plans to boost education spending and put more money into the state's pension systems.

Gazette Opinion: Two days' work will help Montana schools for a ...
Billings Gazette, USA - Dec 19, 2005
At the end of two days' work, the Montana Legislature provided a much-needed boost to the state's K-12 public schools. Lawmakers' speedy action on what was essentially Gov.

Governor shares spotlight at special session
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 17, 2005
Associated Press Writer - 12/17/05. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer shared the spotlight Friday with top lieutenants and legislative party leaders, a day after pushing school funding and pension fixes through the special session.

Schweitzer's plan approved
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Dec 15, 2005
Democrats on Thursday pushed the governor’s school funding proposal through the Legislature, using their majority to end a special session on the issue in just two days.

Governor's proposal on track for approval
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 15, 2005
The governor's school funding proposal chugged through the Legislature on the first day of the special session Wednesday, passing a major hurdle in the House and garnering ...

Governor OKs extra money; bill advances
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 14, 2005
IR State Bureau - 12/15/05. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer Wednesday agreed to add more money to his school-funding plan, which cleared key hurdles on the first day of a special legislative session.

Schweitzer meets with school funding plaintiffs
Billings Gazette, USA - Dec 13, 2005
One day before the Legislature's special session, Gov. Brian Schweitzer sat down face to face for the first time with the education interests that sued Montana over school funding.

For the Bohlingers, music runs in the family
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Dec 12, 2005
Bret Michaels, of the 1980s glam-rock band Poison, is on the television screen, singing in front of a packed house in Nashville, Tenn.

State hits cleanup pay dirt
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Dec 11, 2005
The state lays claim to the nation's single largest environmental cleanup site, where pollution taints multiple communities and overlays a 140-mile stretch of river.

Gazette opinion: A simple, affordable plan to aid schools next ...
Billings Gazette, USA - Dec 11, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer's call for a special session this week and his proposal for state K-12 funding increases will give struggling Montana schools some financial relief next year - if a majority of the Legislature buys the governor's ideas.

Governor's plan boosts Great Falls schools
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Dec 10, 2005
Great Falls residents would not have to pay higher property taxes next year if the Legislature approves Gov. Brian Schweitzer's plan to fund public schools.

‘Skunk in the shower’
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 9, 2005
IR Staff Writer - 12/09/05. A bill that would allow the federal government to sell off some public lands in the West is nothing more than a ‘‘skunk in the shower’’ and should be pulled from consideration by Congress, Montana Gov.

Governor says proposal won't increase taxes
Great Falls Tribune, MT - 12/7/2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer, self-professed fan of bipartisanship, might well have borrowed a phrase from the former President Bush, a Republican, when he introduced his plan to pay for public schools.

Governor says proposal won't increase taxes
Great Falls Tribune, MT - 12/7/2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer, self-professed fan of bipartisanship, might well have borrowed a phrase from the former President Bush, a Republican, when he introduced his plan to pay for public schools.

Governor: Education spending can't include tax increase
The Missoulian, MT - 12/7/2005
Montana public education spending can be boosted and improved without a tax increase in next week's special legislative session, Gov.

Schweitzer: School boards have spending discretion under funding ...
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Dec 6, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Tuesday that local school boards will be the ones to divvy up millions of dollars of new money under a plan he touts as the solution to the state's school-funding problems.

Schweitzer calls Dec. 14 special session
The Missoulian, MT - Dec 5, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Monday called the Montana Legislature into special session next week to tackle school funding and public-employee pension issues and laid out his own plan for both.

6 guvs protest bill's public land sale
Rocky Mountain News, CO - Dec 2, 2005
Six western governors put Congress on notice this week they oppose a measure pending in the US Senate that would open millions of acres of public lands for sale to mining companies.

State coffers not as flush as some think
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Dec 2, 2005
For all the talk of a $300 million surplus, Montana's financial health is not as robust as it appears, a trio of speakers told the Montana Taxpayers Association meeting Thursday.

Counties show common sense
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 1, 2005
12/01/2005. Last spring the Bush administration decided to revise former President Bill Clinton's Roadless Area Conservation Rule, in part by seeking advice from governors as to which roadless ...

Schweitzer: Help poor, don't overspend
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 28, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer told budget staffers Monday to work toward a frugal state spending plan for the 2008-09 biennium that "lives within our means," but said he won't abide cuts in programs serving the poor.

Seeking clean fuel for a nation
Helena Independent Record, MT - Nov 26, 2005
The New York Times - 11/26/05. HELENA, Mont. - Gov. Brian Schweitzer has a two-fisted idea for energy independence that he carries around with him.

Flathead science talk on tap with governor
The Missoulian, MT - Nov 25, 2005
Top technical experts from two countries will join Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Dec. 7 for a high-level discussion of transboundary science and Canadian mining ventures proposed north of Glacier National Park.

Culbertson facility receives funding
Sidney Herald Leader, MT - Nov 24, 2005
Calling it “a step on a journey” to improve eastern Montana’s economy for the future, Gov. Brian Schweitzer presented two checks totaling $800,000 to be used as a loan for Sustainable Systems in Culbertson

Timely return
Helena Independent Record, MT - Nov 23, 2005
IR Staff Writer - 11/24/05. George Lane IR Staff Photographer - Ken Getz, of Helena, gives his family, Julie, Hank and Taylor, a huge hug.

Schweitzer to lawmakers: ‘Pack two shirts’ for Dec.
Helena Independent Record, MT - Nov 23, 2005
IR State Bureau - 11/23/05 - 11/23/2005. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Tuesday he expects to call a special session next month to fix school funding, and that he’s confident a legislative ...

Principle of openness more than just platitude
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Nov 23, 2005
Terry Tiechrow may well be the best person to head the Public Employees Retirement System. He has experience as a member and past president of the board, and he is a public employee (at the Office of Public Instruction).

Schweitzer: State finances are less than meets the eye
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 23, 2005
While the state is forecast to have an extra $300 million this year and next, don't call it a surplus, Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Tuesday.

Open doors? It’s not just a gimmick
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Nov 23, 2005
Sometimes it’s hard to tell the difference between showmanship and substance when Gov. Brian Schweitzer is talking. He is remarkably glib, and could have made a very handsome living as a salesman were he inclined that way.

State jobless rate at 30-year low
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 23, 2005
HELENA - The state's unemployment rate is at its lowest level in at least three decades, a monthly report from the state Department of Labor and Industry shows.

DirecTV to bring Hundreds of New Jobs to Missoula
New West, MT - Nov 22, 2005
State and local officials today formally unveiled plans to build a customer call center in Missoula for a digital television company that is promising to bring some 900 new jobs to the Garden City.

Governor sees promise in Troy mine
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 22, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Monday that a proposed underground silver and copper mine near Troy is "promising" because it lacks many of the environmental problems of other hard-rock mines.

Seeking Clean Fuel for a Nation, and a Rebirth for Small-Town ...
New York Times, United States - Nov 21, 2005
If the vast, empty plain of eastern Montana is the Saudi Arabia of coal, then Gov. Brian Schweitzer, a prairie populist with a bolo tie and an advanced degree in soil science, may be its Lawrence.

Hunt will be good for state’s bison
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Nov 20, 2005
Montana’s first bison hunt in 15 years appears to be going off well, without incidents or confrontations, and a good hunt could help bison in the long run.

Grizzly coin didn't fly with the 'Cat man
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Nov 18, 2005
I suspected Gov. Brian Schweitzer had nixed the idea of engraving a grizzly bear on the state's commemorative quarter because he hates the University of Montana.

Governor calls for disaster readiness
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 18, 2005
Roads, mine taxes and disaster response topped the list of topics raised during Gov. Brian Schweitzer's one-hour visit to the Stillwater County Courthouse Thursday.

Big Sky governor has big dreams
Seattle Post Intelligencer - Nov 17, 2005
CHENEY -- A sky-high dreamer from the Big Sky State, Gov. Brian Schweitzer aims to make Montana government a lobbyist-free zone and to "create the new energy center of the world.

Gazette opinion: Schweitzer defends public's right to know
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 16, 2005
Despite the weather, there was sunshine in Helena this week. Gov. Brian Schweitzer sought to protect the people's right to know in a complaint he filed against the board responsible for eight public pension funds.

Schweitzer sues pension board
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Nov 16, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer is suing a state pension board, alleging that it held illegal closed-door meetings to hire a new executive director.

Schweitzer sets Christmas tree goal
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 13, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer plans to put up 56 Christmas trees - one for every county - at the Capitol this year. "We hope every elementary school child in Montana and their teachers will help us with this ...

Gov investigating hiring decision
Helena Independent Record, MT - Nov 12, 2005
IR State Bureau - 11/12/05. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer has ordered an investigation of the board overseeing Montana’s largest public employee pension fund, saying it may have violated ...

Local disaster response best, say governors
Billings Gazette, USA - Nov 9, 2005
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. - States should continue to rely on their local authorities and National Guard troops to respond to disasters, rather than have the active military take a greater role in the aftermath of ...

Schweitzer criticizes USDA
Madison Daily Leader, SD - Nov 9, 2005
The US Department of Agriculture has turned its back on farmers and shown favor to multinational companies, Gov. Brian Schweitzer told a USDA deputy secretary who is a former adviser to President Bush.

Montana governor makes a difference with Natives
Lincoln Journal Star, NE - Nov 7, 2005
I’ve lived in several states -- Idaho, Colorado, Utah and Nebraska -- by boring governors. Sure, these are fairly practical states.

Soldier gets lucky in bison drawing after governor enters name
Billings Gazette, USA - Oct 13, 2005
Besting enormous odds, a Montana soldier on duty in New Orleans has been chosen to participate in Montana's bison hunt, the first in 15 years, and his field companion will be the man who put his name in the lottery: Gov.

Montana Lottery says new contract will save $13.9M over 7 years
Helena Independent Record, MT - Oct 11, 2005
IR State Bureau - 10/12/05. HELENA - The Montana Lottery signed a contract Tuesday with a Georgia computer systems and lottery equipment vendor that it says will save the state $13.9 million over the next seven years.

Gazette opinion: Beartooth work exceeds expectations
Billings Gazette, USA - Oct 10, 2005
Montana ingenuity and determination have once again triumphed to make a passage for people to reach nature's beautifully rugged domain near "the Top of the World.

Plans to close FSA offices met with skepticism
Billings Gazette, USA - Oct 10, 2005
RINGLING - Farmer Chris Schlepp rarely gets to Townsend. For starters, the small town is 44 miles - and a county - away from his cattle and grain operation, and it's far handier to buy milk and other groceries ..

State dealing with energy costs
Helena Independent Record, MT - Oct 7, 2005
HELENA - Like its citizens and businesses, the state of Montana is feeling the pinch of rising natural gas and gasoline prices, fiscal analysts told the Legislative Finance Committee on Friday.

State helps winterize low-income homes
Helena Independent Record, MT - Oct 6, 2005
IR State Bureau - 10/06/05. George Lane IR Staff Photographer - Nick Manuele, left, and AJ Auer of the Montana Conservation Corps attach a window wrap to the front window of Julie Morley’s Helena home.

Schweitzer pushes synfuels for Montana
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Oct 6, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer visited Great Falls Wednesday promoting his efforts to make Montana home to a high-tech plant that converts the state's coal into liquid fuel and diesel.

AMERICA has a substance abuse problem, and Montana may have a cure.
New York Times - Oct 3, 2005
It is easy to forget, but before the hurricanes bumped up already outrageous fuel prices, President Bush was forced to ask the royals of Saudi Arabia - the country that gave us 15 of the 19 Sept. 11 hijackers - to lower the price of oil so Americans could afford to drive. He was refused.

Schweitzer promotes energy plan
Sidney Herald Leader, MT - Oct 2, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer said Montana should be the leader in energy during a speech at the Montana Senior Citizens Association state convention in Sidney Thursday. ...

Schweitzer buys tags for soldiers
Billings Gazette, USA - Oct 1, 2005
Brian Schweitzer bought bison tags Friday for the upcoming state bison hunt for five soldiers headed south to help with Hurricane Katrina recovery efforts. ...

Schweitzer supports $100 million for teacher retirement
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 29, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer supports asking lawmakers to put $100 million into the Montana Teachers Retirement System if lawmakers meet in a special session late this year ...

Schweitzer energy plan not hot air
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Sep 28, 2005
Brian Schweitzer has a huge amount of energy, and lately he's been applying a great deal of it to one pursuit: Putting Montana's untapped underground energy to ...

Governor blasts Montana's refineries
Laurel Outlook, MT - Sep 28, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer "threw down the gauntlet" Monday afternoon and charged that Montana's refineries are not the good neighbors they try to portray themselves to ...

Gov launches gun safety campaign
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 24, 2005
MISSOULA (LEE)—Fast to admit that Montanans are a gun-loving bunch, Gov. Brian Schweitzer is an even quicker draw when promoting gun safety. ...

Gov wants Corrections to consider new system for Indian justice
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 23, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer has asked corrections officials to explore the idea of having the state's tribes oversee their own justice system for some crimes. ...

BNSF rolls back rate hike for 52-car elevators
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Sep 23, 2005
By JO DEE BLACK. Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway will reduce freight rates for wheat shipped from 52-car elevators, a move applauded ...

State's compassion has been unmatched
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 22, 2005
... you for all you've done to help the victims of Hurricane Katrina. ... Governor Schweitzer requested and received a Presidential Declaration which will assist us ...

Governors seek gas rebates
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Sep 21, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer and seven other Democratic governors are asking Congress to investigate possible gasoline-price gouging in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, and refund any ill-gotten profits to consumers.

Bohlinger touts Rotarians' role in Peace Park
The Missoulian, MT - Sep 18, 2005
Montana's second in command stepped across the political line Saturday, the latest stride in a 70-year effort to erase that border, or, at the very least, to blur its edges a bit.

Lone Rock teacher appointed to governor's council
Hamilton Ravalli Republic, MT - Sep 18, 2005
Ravalli Republic. Gov. Brian Schweitzer has appointed new members to the state's Youth Justice Council, including a sixth-grade teacher at Lone Rock Elementary School.

S. African firm to visit Montana to consider coal-to-fuel project
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 15, 2005
IR State Bureau - 09/15/05. HELENA - Some executives from Sasol Ltd., a South African oil and gas company, will visit Montana this weekend as they consider whether to build a $5 billion ...

State ranks 3rd in percentage of Guard soldiers deployed overseas
Billings Gazette, USA - Sep 10, 2005
More than 7,300 Montana sailors and soldiers have shipped out for war zones abroad since Sept. 11, 2001, Defense Department records show.

Montana plans energy forum
Jackson Hole Star-Tribune, WY - Sep 9, 2005
Governors from at least a half-dozen states, including Wyoming, are expected in Montana next month for an energy forum Gov. Brian Schweitzer is holding.

Gov. Schweitzer calls meeting with BC Premier Campbell productive
CBC News, Canada - Sep 7, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer says initial talks with BC Premier Gordon Campbell on border environmental issues went very well, and he's confident the province's leader is not "hell-bent on development at any cost.

Schweitzer prepares for winter heating crisis
Billings Gazette, USA - Sep 12, 2005
... Schweitzer is supporting the change that directs more of the fund toward home-heating ... to $12 per mcf in the past week, after Hurricane Katrina, said Claudia ...

Schweitzer: Stop price gouging at gas pump
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 1, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer Thursday called on Montana oil refineries to stop "gouging'' gasoline consumers in the state, saying Hurricane Katrina should have no effect ...

Unions bullish on Schweitzer
Billings Gazette, USA - Sep 5, 2005
MISSOULA - Low wages, high gas prices, Katrina's aftermath, the troops in Iraq and Montana's governor were just ... Brian Schweitzer will help turn things around. ...

Helena residents pitch in
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 3, 2005
The pleas for help from victims of Hurricane Katrina prompted Gov. Brian Schweitzer and the Montana state government to take its own action Friday by putting ...

More than a drop
Helena Independent Record, MT - Sep 3, 2005
... area who responded Friday when Gov. Schweitzer put out a call for bottled water to be sent to the victims of Hurricane Katrina. ...

Schweitzer signs order making Guard troops available for hurricane relief
Billings Gazette, USA - Sep 2, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer signed an emergency order Friday making the state's National Guard troops available for Hurricane Katrina relief efforts if needed, calling ...

Now is the time to look at coal to ease gas crisis
The Desert Sun, CA - Sep 1, 2005
In the aftermath of the Hurricane Katrina, it's become painfully obvious ... Canada, Montana's recently elected Democratic governor, Brian Schweitzer, rang the ...

Montana's governor eyes coal to solve US fuel costs
Washington Post, United States - Aug 25, 2005
Montana's governor wants to solve America's rising energy costs using a technology discovered in Germany 80 years ago that converts coal into gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel.

Gov. confronts businessman over attempt to trademark 'last best ...
Billings Gazette, USA - Jul 26, 2005
A Las Vegas businessman told Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Tuesday he does not want to trademark the phrase "Last Best Place" for the exclusive use of his commercial operations.

News of MANG's jets just keeps getting better
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jul 24, 2005
It's too early for Montana Air National Guard supporters to celebrate, but prospects of keeping a flying mission in the state improved this past week.

Governor pushes roadless process
The Casper Star Tribune, WY - Jul 22, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer is tired of the rhetoric over the future of Montana's nearly 6.4 million acres of roadless national forest land.

Gov orders Canadian beef tests
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jul 21, 2005
Associated Press Writer - 07/22/05. HELENA - With Canadian cattle beginning to be trucked across the US border again, Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Thursday ordered that all animals destined for ...

Will work for film
Missoula Independent, MT - Jul 21, 2005
On July 28, a group of 27 motion picture industry insiders will gather in Bozeman for the first-ever meeting of the newly formed Montana Film and Television Advisory Council.

State to fight for 'Last Best Place'
Billings Gazette, MT - Jul 21, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer says he'll mount a campaign to ensure the phrase "The Last Best Place" remains the property of the people of Montana.

Schweitzer says it's time for Montanans to roll up their sleeves ...
The Missoulian, MT - Jul 20, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer is tired of the rhetoric over the future of Montana's nearly 6.4 million acres of roadless national forest land.

CHS plans coker installation at Laurel refinery
Laurel Outlook, MT - Jul 20, 2005
Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer called the announcement of plans for construction of a $325 million coker plant at the Laurel CHS Refinery a great show of confidence in Laurel and the State of Montana.

Pentagon policy irks governor
Billings Gazette, USA - Jul 19, 2005
HELENA - The Pentagon has turned a deaf ear to Gov. Brian Schweitzer's request to return more of the state's National Guard members to Montana for the heart of the wildfire season, the governor said Tuesday.

Governor views storm-hit areas in Culbertson
Sidney Herald Leader, MT - Jul 19, 2005
In light of the widespread storm damage across the Hi-line, which resulted from last Wednesday's fierce wind storm, Gov. Brian Schweitzer visited Culbertson to tour the damaged sites late ...

Float trip calls attention to stream access issue
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jul 19, 2005
About 200 people turned out Sunday to float a disputed stretch of the Ruby River to assert the public's right to have access to Montana's rivers and streams.

Wind damage set at $5 million
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jul 19, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer, on his way back to Helena from the National Governors Association meeting in Des Moines, Iowa, flew into Culbertson Monday evening to view the damage.

Guard Deployments Weigh on Governors
Washington Post, United States - Jul 18, 2005
Whenever a member of the Idaho National Guard is killed or badly wounded in Iraq, one of the first to know is Gov. Dirk Kempthorne (R), informed by the Pentagon hours before the soldier's family.

Florence woman picked as state's poet laureate
Billings Gazette, MT - Jul 13, 2005
HELENA - Sandra Alcosser, of Florence, who has had seven books of her poetry published, is Montana's first poet laureate. Gov.

Gazette opinion: Keep up good work on Beartooth repairs, tourist ...
Billings Gazette, MT - Jul 13, 2005
When May mudslides damaged or blocked 13 sections of the Beartooth Highway, the 2005 tourist season might have been buried, too. But Montanans are experienced at making the best of challenging situations.

Schweitzer appoints 1st education adviser
Billings Gazette, MT - Jul 13, 2005
HELENA - Jan Lombardi, who has worked for three years in the state superintendent of public instruction's office, has become education policy adviser to Gov.

Montana revives plans for bison hunting season
The Missoulian, MT - Jul 11, 2005
Six months after canceling a planned bison hunt because of concerns about bad publicity, Montana's wildlife commission has approved a revised hunt of bison that ...

Attorney general negates budget cap
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jul 6, 2005
HELENA - A 24-year-old limit on state government spending growth cannot restrict the Legislature's spending authority, Attorney General Mike McGrath said Tuesday in a decision that could have far-reaching effects on lawmakers' budgeting policies.

Montana rings up wealth of ideas for coin
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jul 6, 2005
Maybe it's cowboys and dinosaurs, elk and explorers, or mining and mountains. Montanans have no shortage of what they consider to be symbols of the state and want to see engraved on the state's commemorative quarter.

Amtrak tour pulls into Whitefish
The Missoulian, MT - Jun 2, 2005
... "Mineta says he wants states to have the opportunity to expand train travel," said Gov. Brian Schweitzer. "With zero dollars, mind you, zero dollars.". ...

Hi-Line rally this week to show support for Amtrak
Great Falls Tribune, MT - May 30, 2005
Brian Schweitzer will lead a "Whistle Stop Tour" along the Hi-Line Wednesday and Thursday in a show of support for Amtrak's Empire Builder passenger train. ...

Schweitzer gets good job rating
Helena Independent Record, MT - May 28, 2005
... found. They handed a higher job approval grade to Gov. Brian Schweitzer than they did to his two predecessors, Govs. Judy Martz ...

Schweitzer declares state of emergency in Carbon County
Billings Gazette, MT - May 27, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer on Friday declared an emergency in Carbon County because of five massive mudslides that dropped onto US 212 a week ago and forced closure of ...

Schweitzer goes to feds over impact of BC mine
Billings Gazette, MT - May 27, 2005
Brian Schweitzer wants the US State Department to initiate a US-Canada study of the Flathead Valley, which spans the international border, before new mining ...

Schweitzer may ban hiring of lobbyists with state funds
The Havre Daily News, MT - May 26, 2005
... reconsider because Gov. Brian Schweitzer has some concerns about the use of taxpayer dollars to pay for lobbyists. "The governor ...

Safe driving, seat belt campaign launched
Billings Gazette, MT - May 26, 2005
... "We've seen these campaigns work to save lives in the past," Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Thursday in announcing the campaign. "This ...

Stillwater Mining presents palladium medals to governor for awards
Billings Gazette, MT - May 26, 2005
HELENA -- Gov. Brian Schweitzer plans to reward the state employee who each month comes up with the best idea to save money or make government more efficient. ...

Governor Schweitzer feted, praised at Blackfeet Tribal ...
Glacier Reporter - May 25, 2005
... St. Goddard, Hugh Monroe and Chief Earl Old Person, welcomed Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer to Blackfeet country. Schweitzer ...

Amtrak Whistlestop to stop in Shelby.
Shelby Promoter, MT - May 25, 2005
... The Whistlestop Tour is the chance for people to speak with Gov. Brian Schweitzer, Lt. Gov. John Bollinger, as well as Amtrak and Shelby officials. ...

Schwetzer threatens legal fight to protect Air Guard
Billings Gazette, MT - May 25, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer on Wednesday threatened to take legal action against the federal government to block any move to reduce the Montana Air National Guard unit at ...

Schweitzer in Rudyard and Chester
Liberty County Times, MT - May 25, 2005
... Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer was in Rudyard doing double duty as a commencement speaker and presenting a half million dollars to the local water district. ...

Beartooth Highway closed by mud slides
Helena Independent Record, MT - May 23, 2005
... ''This will be a priority project.''. Gov. Brian Schweitzer flew over the site Sunday and vowed Monday to move quickly on repairs. ...

Salish and Kootenai Tribes to receive money for fish protection
Billings Gazette, MT - May 23, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer went to the Salish and Kootenai headquarters in Pablo on Monday, for a ceremony to mark the signing of the agreement between the tribes and BPA ...

The casual-dress governor: Schweitzer talks about life, influences
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - May 21, 2005
... the same things.". Brian Schweitzer was born in 1955 to Adam and Kay Schweitzer and grew up on a ranch in Judith Basin. He is the ...

Schweitzer pursues coal-to-oil conversion
Billings Gazette, MT - May 20, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer believes Montana could produce oil and other petroleum products from the millions of tons of coal reserves it owns in southeastern Montana. ...

 

State must gear up to handle major new job
Great Falls Tribune, MT - May 9, 2005
Brian Schweitzer last week was dealt one of the most important tasks of his young term: Petitioning the federal government about how to manage the 6.3 million ...

Gazette opinion: Indian ed will enrich all students
Billings Gazette, MT - May 8, 2005
Brian Schweitzer made the first substantial state appropriations toward fulfilling the Indian education goal stated in the Montana Constitution 30 years ago. ...

2005 graduates take their place
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - May 7, 2005
... said. That philosophy was encouraged by Governor Brian Schweitzer, who told the graduating class in a speech to take a deep breath. ...

Schweitzer sharply criticizes 2 tax bills
Billings Gazette, MT - May 6, 2005
Brian Schweitzer on Friday called the Legislature irresponsible for passing a pair of bills to increase taxes on hospitals and nursing homes, but said he will ...

Schweitzer signs bill requiring 10% ethanol
Billings Gazette, MT - May 6, 2005
Brian Schweitzer signed a law Friday that mandates much of the gasoline sold in the state include 10 percent ethanol, as soon as state producers generate at ...

Corps of Discovery II makes first Montana stop
Great Falls Tribune, MT - May 6, 2005
... With the promise of a market in Montana, plants that produce ethanol could begin springing up in Montana, Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Friday. ...

Gov to lobby Pentagon for fighter training wing
Helena Independent Record, MT - May 3, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer plans to exploit that next week when he meets with Pentagon officials who are preparing their list of proposed base closings. ...

Pro-Amtrak whistle-stop tour planned for Hi-Line
The Havre Daily News, MT - May 3, 2005
A whistle-stop tour led by Gov. Brian Schweitzer in support of Amtrak will roll through Havre on June 1, Bear Paw Development Corp. ...

Giving Democrats' agenda a chance
Daily Inter Lake, MT - May 1, 2005
... produce dividends. Some elements of Gov. Brian Schweitzer's agenda are bound to succeed, while others will probably fail. It won ...

Northwest governors agree to share firefighting resources
Helena Independent Record, MT - Apr 28, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer, who was flanked at a Wednesday night news conference by Washington Gov. Christine Gregoire, Oregon Gov. Ted Kulongoski and Idaho Gov. ...

Schweitzer isn't easing up on lobbyists - Friday, April 29, 2005
The Missoulian, MT - Apr 28, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer got nowhere in the Legislature with his proposal to tighten ethics rules for lawmakers and other state officials. ...

Montana's roads get safer
Helena Independent Record, MT - Apr 27, 2005
... But equally important was a law signed by Gov. Brian Schweitzer this week to give a long-overdue boost to the Highway Patrol. The ...

Green groups find doors opening at governor's office
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Apr 27, 2005
It was a meeting that may not have happened in the four years before Gov. Brian Schweitzer took office. A few weeks ago representatives ...

Governor goes into post-session mode
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Apr 26, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer is turning his attention toward the unfinished business of an ethics law for state officials, and a high priority for economic development. ...

Water flowed through several important bills
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 25, 2005
... Gov. Brian Schweitzer, who supported the legislation, said it would have taken 50 years to complete the process at its present rate. ...

No new taxes come out of recent Legislature
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Apr 24, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer to veto most new taxes and a nearly $300 million state budget surplus that satisfied the need for new revenue. ...

Gov. Schweitzer delighted with changes made in 2005 session
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 23, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer, already touring the state to talk about his track record during his first Legislature, says he's more than happy with the results. ...

Schweitzer touts tougher laws against meth
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Apr 22, 2005
Don't drink. Save sex for marriage. And the message Gov. Brian Schweitzer delivers to teens is, "They're right about all of those things.". ...

Schweitzer cites administration's successes after 4 months
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 21, 2005
... Thursday, Gov. Brian Schweitzer was in Billings running down a list of administration accomplishments in the past four months. While ...

Schweitzer commends Legislature
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 20, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer on Wednesday passed out the accolades to members of the Montana Legislature for their work and for approving nearly all of the items on his ...

Schweitzer signs college construction bill
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 20, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer on Tuesday, said John Cech, College of Technology dean. $11 million for the Montana State University College of Technology-Great Falls. ...

Saving Amtrak one Whistle Stop at a time
Shelby Promoter, MT - Apr 20, 2005
... Not to be daunted by the news of the proposal to eliminate Amtrak's funding, area residents have met with Governor Brian Schweitzer to discuss ways to raise ...

Governor signs resolution urging use of wood bats
Helena Independent Record, MT - Apr 19, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer signed a resolution on Wednesday urging the American Legion to adopt a wood bat-only rule in its youth baseball leagues, in Montana and across ...

Governor signs $70 million school funding bill
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 19, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer signed into law a bill that will give public schools a $70 million boost in state aid over the next two years, a key piece of the school ...

Schweitzer signs measure for Fort Belknap water treatment
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 19, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer on Tuesday as he signed a bill addressing their top environmental concern: the treatment of water contaminated by the defunct Zortman and ...

Schweitzer signs anti-smoking bill
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 19, 2005
HELENA — Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Monday signed into law a statewide smoking ban, calling it "one of the most important pieces of legislation in a decade.". ...

Governor proposes smaller increase in fish license fee
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 19, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer is asking lawmakers to reduce their proposed increase in the cost of a resident fishing license, saying the measure approved by the ...

Life of the Party
Salon - Apr 18, 2005
Brian Schweitzer, the blue governor of the red state of Montana, may just have the answer to the Democrats' woes. Editor's note: Salon ...

Democrats Push for New Frontier
Los Angeles Times (subscription), CA - Apr 17, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer, a Democrat whose campaign spots, promoting his "A" rating from the National Rifle Assn., showed him in hunting gear and toting a rifle ...

Schweitzer satisfied
Helena Independent Record, MT - Apr 17, 2005
HELENA — With a red carnation perched on his lapel and sprouting a small banner proclaiming ‘‘100 Days,'' Brian Schweitzer sat casually in his Capitol ...

Governor marks first hundred days in first term
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 17, 2005
HELENA - With a red carnation perched on his lapel and sprouting a small banner proclaiming "100 Days," Brian Schweitzer sat casually in his Capitol office and ...

On fossils, GOP votes and rural interests
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 17, 2005
... Then came Friday — a day when the House voted on three key measures supported by Gov. Brian Schweitzer and fellow Democrats. Two ...

GOP House votes help pass major Schweitzer proposals
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 16, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer to start crafting his own "legacy" for the state. "I want to kick it right in the governor's teeth with this bill," Lange said. "So vote no.". ...

BNSF, governor, say railroad will lower shipping rates
Billings Gazette, MT - April 14, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer, who just a week ago confronted a company official about its rate structure, said the change should save Montana farmers 3 cents to 4 cents ...

Jergens, Black on hand for meth bill signature
Shelby Promoter, MT - Apr 13, 2005
When Toole County Deputy Jeff Jergens watched Governor Brian Schweitzer sign SB 166 into law in Helena on Thursday, March 31, he knew the bill would give law ...

Gazette opinion: Montana honors Guardsman's heroism
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 11, 2005
The first Montana National Guardsman to die in a war zone since World War II was memorialized Monday in Lewistown with full military honors provided by the Guard.

Schweitzer emphasizes support of Indians
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 12, 2005
... Tuesday, Gov. Brian Schweitzer talked candidly about race issues and promised to remain a friend to Montana's Indian tribes.

Governor pushes for tax-cheat bill
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 10, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer entered the growing fray Saturday over the fate of a trio of tax bills that includes his administration's effort to crack down on tax cheaters.

Rights of crime victims focus of Helena event
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Apr 10, 2005
... Gov. John Bohlinger, Attorney General Mike McGrath and Mikie Baker-Hajek, executive director of Cascade County Victim-Witness Assistance Services. ...

Legislative progress pleases Schweitzer
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 7, 2005
BOZEMAN - Gov. Brian Schweitzer said he is mostly pleased with the progress of the Legislature and expects 15 of the 17 bills he actively supports to pass. ...

Quality education defined
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 7, 2005
... Thursday when Gov. Brian Schweitzer signed into law the Legislature's definition of quality public education. Surrounded by lawmakers ...

'Squeeze PPL,' governor advises
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 7, 2005
By CHARLES S. JOHNSON. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer urged top NorthWestern Corp. officials Thursday to negotiate the lowest power ...

Property tax raising school bill rejected
Billings Gazette, MT - Apr 6, 2005
... and Senate before heading to Gov. Brian Schweitzer's office for his signature or veto. If the regular conference committee fails ...

Tony Montana
Democrats show surprising strength in a red state.

Opinion Journal, NJ - Apr 6, 2005
HELENA, Mont.--Tribal flags billowed next to the Stars and Stripes, the smell of burning sweetgrass hung in the air, and the drumbeat from a half-dozen tom-toms was a tad insistent.

Schweitzer creates film advisory council
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 30, 2005
... of movies and TV shows, Gov. Brian Schweitzer has created the Montana Film and Television Advisory Council. Its task is to give ...

Bill would help soldiers pay for life insurance
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 30, 2005
... New Mexico is also discussing a similar measure. Gov. Brian Schweitzer gave support for HB761 in his State of the State address in January. ...

New law creates state poet laureate
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Mar 24, 2005
A bill signed into law by Gov. Brian Schweitzer Thursday creates the position of state poet laureate, an honorary title that will be bestowed by the governor. ...

A Capitol experience for Schweitzer staffers
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Mar 21, 2005
... Both are nearly fresh out of college, and both say they feel fortunate to have been hired by Gov. Brian Schweitzer for positions that have been challenging. ...

Governor pleased agenda is advancing in Legislature
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Mar 19, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer says his agenda is advancing in the state Legislature, and that he will comply with a 1981 law that limits spending growth, even thought the ...

Schweitzer asks GOP to revive waste study
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 18, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer urged Republican leaders Friday to revive his $400,000 request for a study to root out government waste and told them he wants to keep budget ...

Western revolution
Missoula Independent, MT - Mar 17, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer’s request to bring Montana’s National Guard troops and helicopters home from Iraq to fight what is widely considered to be a potentially ...

Schweitzer tours women’s prison, laments gridlock in Legislature
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 16, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer toured the Montana Women's Prison in Billings Wednesday morning - methamphetamine and his prickly relationship with Republican legislative ...

Schweitzer reminds cabinet to embrace open government
Helena Independent Record, MT - Mar 16, 2005
HELENA (AP) — Gov. Brian Schweitzer told his department directors Wednesday to do more than give lip service to his administration's open-government policy. ...

Charette advocate for many
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 14, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer's newly appointed Coordinator of American Indian Affairs holds a master's degree in history, she wants to tell history the way she sees it ...

Montana Governor Asks for Return of Guard Troops (audio)
NPR - Mar 7, 2005
Melissa Block talks to Gov. Brian Schweitzer about his request to the Pentagon that National Guard troops and helicopters be returned from overseas to help fight wildfires in Montana this summer.

Lured-away Montanans finding their way back to jobs at home
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 6, 2005
... Gov. Brian Schweitzer said creating economic opportunities for college graduates is the best way to keep Montana's bright, young minds. ...

Prisons overhaul will be scrutinized
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 6, 2005
... and Gov. Brian Schweitzer want to take corrections, given that so many inmates are incarcerated for nonviolent crimes. ''He's going ...

Schweitzer forecasts 'powder-keg' fire season
The Missoulian, MT - Mar 5, 2005
... keg as the summer wildfire season approaches, Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Friday. Schweitzer has asked the Pentagon to return some ...

Bozeman attorney appointed as regent
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 5, 2005
By ALLISON FARRELL. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer appointed Bozeman attorney Stephen Barrett to a seven-year term on the State Board of Regents Friday. ...

Budget chief: Time to dump outmoded spending cap
Billings Gazette, MT - Mar 4, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer's budget director urged legislators Thursday to repeal a controversial, and in his view outdated, 1981 law that ties certain state spending ...

Ethics bill an opportunity missed
The Missoulian, MT - Mar 1, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer, that bill sought to bar legislators and elected state officials from going to work as lobbyists immediately after leaving office. ...

Montana Governor Isn't Cowed by Bush
Los Angeles Times, CA - Mar 1, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer likened the president's pitch to a magic show trick featuring a rabbit in a hat. He also compared it to a bull auction hawking lousy studs. ...

Schweitzer: Bush administration resisting ways to reduce drug ...
Helena Independent Record, MT - Feb 26, 2005
... ‘‘President Bush was recently here in Montana and we had just one question for him,'' Gov. Brian Schweitzer said in his party's weekly radio address. ...

Top Democrats say not all public needs will get addressed this ...
The Bozeman Daily Chronicle, MT - Feb 25, 2005
... a limited state budget and Gov. Brian Schweitzer's pledge not to raise taxes to increase that budget. That was the message from ...

Schweitzer, GOP and Demo leader praise their first-half work
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 24, 2005
... in each chamber and Gov. Brian Schweitzer all said they were generally pleased with the progress so far. At three separate press ...

Governor Hails New Montana Bioscience Trade Association
Y
ahoo News - Feb 22, 2005
... bioscience industry. "Montana's BioScience industry is steadily developing," said Montana's Governor Brian Schweitzer. "Our state ...

Power politics: Schweitzer wary of transmission bill
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 22, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer on Monday expressed "grave concerns" about the state building, owning and operating electrical power lines, fearing Montanans would lose their ...

Governor appoints board members
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 14, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer last week appointed four members to the state Board of Investments and three new members to the Montana Human Rights Commission. ...

Inaugural ball shows support for area tribes
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 13, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer, who danced into the ballroom behind him Saturday night. This was the kickoff for the largest and most formal of three inaugural ball parties. ...

Having a Ball
Helena Independent Record, MT - Feb 12, 2005
Gov. Brian Schweitzer led a dazzling procession through the Civic Center Saturday night, receiving the hardy applause of 3,000 handsome guests. ...

Starting a new day: Bohlinger embraces duty as lieutenant governor
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 6, 2005
... 2, when the former Republican state senator from Billings and Democrat Gov.Brian Schweitzer became the first bipartisan team elected to lead Montana.

We're having a ball
Helena Independent Record, MT - Feb 4, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer's promise of a "new day" in Montana stands out as the theme of the event, and in searching for a logo, Schweitzer's brother, Walt, happened to ...

Schweitzer bumps ed spending by $14 million
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 4, 2005
By ALLISON FARRELL. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer added $14 million on Friday to his two-year spending plan for public schools in Montana. ...

Governor backs ethics bill
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 4, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer testified Friday in support of a bill that would prevent elected officials at the state and local level from re-entering the political fray as ...

Gov adds four-legged aide to office
Helena Independent Record, MT - Feb 2, 2005
By BOB ANEZ - Associated Press Writer. HELENA — While most governors are accompanied by an aide or trailed by a bodyguard, Brian Schweitzer has Jag. ...

Governor cool to prison expansion
Billings Gazette, MT - Feb 2, 2005
By JENNIFER McKEE. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer strongly hinted Tuesday he doesn't want to vastly expand the state's private prison in Shelby. ...

Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 31, 2005
... Gov. Brian Schweitzer said Monday in promoting his new scholarship program. Schweitzer's program, included in a bill by Rep. Gary ...

Eye on Bucks: Revenue chief targets cheaters
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 30, 2005
HELENA — Even though Gov. Brian Schweitzer has pledged to not raise taxes, that doesn't mean he isn't foraging for new revenue. ...

Schweitzer galvanized to action over pay-raise fight
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jan 26, 2005
... Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer grilled Republicans over their refusal to support a pay plan ratified this month by employees. "The ...

Horse sense: Schweitzer's pledge on taxes sounds sweet to GOP ears
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 23, 2005
... of the lines in Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer's State of the State address last week. Competing applause meters would have shown ...

Horse sense: Schweitzer's pledge on taxes sounds sweet to GOP ears
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 22, 2005
... of the lines in Democratic Gov. Brian Schweitzer's State of the State address last week. Competing applause meters would have shown ...

Schweitzer pushes for ethics bill
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 22, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer says he wants to stop a revolving door here by putting a new ethics law on the books. People inappropriately ...

Billings woman appointed to state Indian affairs coordinator
The Missoulian, MT - Jan 21, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer gave new breath to a state office by announcing on Thursday his choice for Indian affairs coordinator. ...

Schweitzer speech provides ambitious agenda
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Jan 21, 2005
That was a fundamental theme of Gov. Brian Schweitzer's first State of the State speech Wednesday. It also is the topic most likely ...

New FWP commissioners hit ground running
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 19, 2005
By THOMAS MENDYKE - IR Assistant Outdoors Editor - 01/20/05. One of Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer's first acts following his inauguration Jan. ...

Gov: No new taxes
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 19, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer pledged in his State of the State address Wednesday night that he would not raise taxes and will eliminate property taxes on equipment for ...

Schweitzer proposes selling bonds to help repair St. Mary Canal
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 19, 2005
HELENA -- Gov. Brian Schweitzer is proposing the state issue $10 million in bonds to help pay for repairs to the St. Mary Canal, the ...

Schweitzer names women to 4 state positions
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 18, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer on Tuesday appointed two Montana women, former state Sen. Sue Bartlett of Helena and Margaret MacDonald ...

Governor to deliver 1st State address
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 18, 2005
By CHARLES S. JOHNSON. HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer will deliver his first State of the State address tonight, with no major surprise announcements expected. ...

Gov details sweeping bison plan
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 18, 2005
... Brian Schweitzer outlined a plan Monday to permanently eradicate a troubling disease from Yellowstone National Park's bison herd that involves slowly ...

Governor showed he can act quickly
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 16, 2005
HELENA - When Brian Schweitzer awoke for his second full day as Montana's new governor, he knew very little about the state's planned bison hunt, just 11 days ...

Horse sense: Surprise - Schweitzer budget meets spending limit
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 16, 2005
... for Republicans to brand Gov. Brian Schweitzer and Democrats as profligate big tax-and-spenders. Democrats, in turn, will depict ...

Family triumvirate
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 12, 2005
... Gov. Brian Schweitzer appointed Whiting and Whiting-Sorrell, who are sisters and citizens of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes, to positions in his ...

Montanans invited to inaugural balls Feb. 12
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 12, 2005
The Civic Center is formal attire, while the Great Northern and Carroll will be semiformal. Gov. Brian Schweitzer, Lt. Gov. John ...

Schweitzer learning his way around
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 8, 2005
HELENA - Gov. Brian Schweitzer could be excused for forgetting which stairway leads to the back door of his house. After all, he ...

State, unions praise deal on pay raises
Billings Gazette, MT - Jan 7, 2005
... David Ewer, budget director for Gov. Brian Schweitzer, said the administration shared the unions' concern about the poorest-paid employees. ...

Governor names new members to FWP Commission
Hamilton Ravalli Republic, MT - Jan 6, 2005
By GREG LEMON Staff Reporter. Gov. Brian Schweitzer appointed three new members to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission on Thursday. ...

Crowd fills Capitol for inauguration
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 3, 2005
HELENA - Amid the bleating of Irish bagpipers and the beat of an American Indian drum, Gov. Brian Schweitzer was sworn in Monday as Montana's 23rd governor. ...

Dreaming of a better Montana
Helena Independent Record, MT - Jan 2, 2005
HELENA — Incoming Gov. Brian Schweitzer comes from a family of dreamers. ...

Schweitzer names staff
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 30, 2004
... Brian Schweitzer on Thursday appointed a number of people who worked on his transition staff and his campaign to his staff in the governor's office. ...

Democrats have a lot of responsibility in Helena
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Dec 30, 2004
... Gov.-elect Brian Schweitzer has proposed a budget with $2.95 billion in spending over the next biennium with roughly $57 million in additional state funding ...

Campaign trail leads to Helena
Daily Inter Lake, MT - Dec 30, 2004
By JIM MANN. For Gov.-elect Brian Schweitzer, 2004 was a whirl of a ride that reached a peak with victory on Nov. 2.

Events mark new governmental year
Billings Gazette, MT - Dec 29, 2004
Brian Schweitzer and other top state officials will be sworn in and the 2005 Montana Legislature convenes Monday with a handful of events throughout the day. ...

Gov.-elect plans to spend millions more on schools
The Missoulian, MT - Dec 29, 2004
HELENA - Gov.-elect Brian Schweitzer's new budget bumps state spending on public primary and secondary education by $58 million over fiscal 2006 and 2007 and ...

No tax increases in Schweitzer budget
Helena Independent Record, MT - Dec 28, 2004
HELENA — Gov.-elect Brian Schweitzer proposed a state general fund budget Tuesday that calls for spending more on economic development, public schools and ...

Political shift top news story of year
The Missoulian, MT - Dec 26, 2004
... Brian Schweitzer, a farmer from Whitefish who ran unsuccessfully for US Senate against Republican Conrad Burns in 2000, beat political veteran Bob Brown to win ...

Schweitzer aims to build optimism
Great Falls Tribune, MT - Dec 25, 2004
HELENA — As Brian Schweitzer talks about his agenda as Montana's 23rd governor, he can sound more like a religious revivalist than a politician. ...