Deb Hill

Deb Hill Reporter Month to Date: Trace Normal: .25 inches Last year for Aug. 1-6: .03 inches Since Oct. 1: 16.10 inches

This was the first Cowboy Poetry Gathering experience for Skylar Bothun (left) from Idaho, who accompanied his friend from northern California, Amir Beardsley (right). Beardsley was performing for the first time at the Lewistown event.

They came from across the United States and Canada, from places like Amarillo, Texas, Rockport, Massachusetts and Elkwater, Alberta, headed to Lewistown, nearly 600 strong.

Don't breathe. On Sunday afternoon air quality in the Lewistown area reached into the “unhealthy” category, where it stayed until early Monday morning.

Fergus County Commissioner Ross Butcher was recognized at Monday’s Commission meeting for his leadership related to economic development efforts.

So far about half a dozen businesses are interested in a new program to adopt a Lewistown trail kiosk. The concept is under consideration by the Friends of the Trails

Artist Sonja Andersen (left) hands a drawing she was commissioned to do to customer Hunter Cook during the Cowboy Poetry Festival, where Andersen had a booth selling her art.

Mental health, a special harvest train and data centers were among the topics discussed at Monday's Community Council meeting.

Due to a mixup with the calendar, the annual Lewistown Metis Powwow is moving to Winnett this year. Organizers suggest the move could be permanent.

Larry Carroll (center) cuts the ribbon Friday afternoon, officially opening Winnett’s newest business. Joining Carroll are (left) County Commissioner Paul McKenna and (right) former Commissioner Chris King.