News staff looks back on a busy year

Montana Public Radio | By Sally Mauk

Published December 31, 2013 at 11:22 AM MST

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Sen. Mike Phillips (D-Bozeman) quoting from the Montana Constitution in opposition to Republicans taking votes before recognizing a “call of the Senate” during the 2013 legislature";s:

Dan Boyce

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Barricade at west entrance of Glacier National Park during federal government shutdown

Katrin Frye

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Lolo Creek Complex fire

Sally Mauk

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Jordan Johnson (center) flanked by his attorneys David Paoli and Kirstin Pabst at his sexual assault trial

Edward O'Brien

2013 began with a new governor and a new legislature - and wound down with a government shutdown. In-between there were headline-grabbing trials and home-destroying fires.

The MTPR news staff - Sally Mauk, Edward O'Brien, Dan Boyce and Katrin Frye - covered the issues and breaking news. In this feature, they take a look back at a year of drama and heartache, and political surprises.