Hunter Olson of Plentywood is facing charges after allegedly defrauding the Farm Services Agency and a Wolf Point bank of more than $269,000. Charges against Olson include conversion of secured property, bank fraud, wire fraud and aggravated identify theft. Maximum penalties include 57 years in prison, a $1,750,000 fine and 12 years of supervised release. According to court documents, Olson

Roosevelt County Attorney Frank Piocos is continuing his investigation whether a county commissioner had a potential conflict of interest when he voted in favor of gravel purchases during a span of several years. Piocos has interviewed several persons of interest. After receiving an official complaint regarding the matter on Oct. 21, he says he has 90 days to determine whether it’s warranted

to pull together an additional citizen group to explore more ways to address issues around hunter access to private land and landowner preferences. The goal for the group will be to provide tangible recommendations FWP and the commission can implement. Also, with the availability of more federal Pittman-Robertson funds, FWP is exploring a three-fold increase of funding for its access programs.

The company behind the Keystone XL pipeline, TC Energy, is seeking $15 billion in compensation from the United States via a formal request for arbitration. The case will proceed as a legacy NAFTA case, as the trade agreement was in place at the time of initial agreements. Montana and Texas have also filed suit over the issue, along with 21 other states located along the proposed pipeline route.

A Christmas-themed vendor showcase is planned in Culbertson Saturday, Dec. 4, in conjunction with a breakfast fundraiser hosted by the Lions and Women’s clubs prior to the event. The Winter Showcase will start at 10 a.m. at the Old Armory. Attendees are invited to shop local vendors, crafters and artists. The showcase is presented by Culbertson Parks. An afternoon meal will also be served with