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DILLON, Mont. — The University of Montana Western men's rodeo team is set to compete on college rodeo's biggest stage as eight Bulldogs head to Casper, Wyoming, for the 2026 College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) beginning Sunday, June 14. The week-long championship brings together the nation's top collegiate rodeo athletes, with competitors vying for individual national titles and a coveted spot in Saturday night's Championship Round. Montana Western enters the CNFR after a strong regular season, finishing second in the Big Sky Region with 6,256.5 points, good for 10th in the national standings heading into the finals. Eight Bulldogs Ready to Compete Representing Montana Western at the CNFR are: Cardell Laughery – Saddle Bronc Riding Cade Costello – Saddle Bronc Riding Jake Deveraux – Tie-Down Roping Jeremy Kay – Bareback Riding Gavin Knutson – Bull Riding and Team Roping Luke Garrison – Team Roping Cooper Pavkov – Team Roping Bry Severe – Team Roping Competition begins Sunday with the Bulls, Broncs & Breakaway sessions before moving into slack rounds on Monday and Tuesday. Evening performances will take place Tuesday through Friday, culminating with the Championship Round on Saturday, June 20. Four Bulldogs Making Their CNFR Debut This year's finals will mark the first appearance on the national stage for four Montana Western athletes: Luke Garrison Jeremy Kay Cardell Laughery Bry Severe Veteran Experience Returns The Bulldogs also bring significant championship experience to Casper. Gavin Knutson is making his fourth consecutive CNFR appearance, while Jake Deveraux is competing for the third time. Cooper Pavkov and Cade Costello are each returning for their second national finals. Championship Round the Goal Throughout the week, competitors will be working to earn one of the top 12 positions in their respective events, which would qualify them for Saturday night's Championship Round. Fans can follow the action throughout the week with live results, while evening performances from Tuesday through Saturday will be streamed live on ESPN+. With a mix of seasoned veterans and talented first-time qualifiers, Montana Western will look to build on an impressive season as the Bulldogs compete against the nation's best at the 2026 College National Finals Rodeo.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana 59725 PUBLIC SERVICES COMMITTEE MEETING (Health & Welfare/Fire & Order) City Hall Council Chambers Monday, June 15 th , 2026 3:00 PM AGENDA 1. Call to Order 2. Update from Fire Chief Epperson 3. Review/Recommend Nurse’s Quarterly Report 4. Review/Recommend MOU with Police Department and UMW 5. Discuss/Recommend Changes to Title 6.04 Vicious Animals 6. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City. 7. Adjournment Committee Members: Mike Brumbaugh, Chair Don Deem Tara Stevens

DILLON, Mont. — The Beaverhead Trails Coalition welcomed runners, walkers, and families to its annual Pronghorn Pursuit on Saturday, combining a community fundraiser with a celebration of National Trails Day. The event offered something for participants of all ages and abilities, with options including a challenging 15K race, a 5K run/walk, and a 5K Kids division, giving runners and families an opportunity to enjoy Beaverhead County’s trail system while supporting the coalition’s work. Beyond the races, the event featured a variety of family activities. Concierge OT hosted a rock-painting station where children could create colorful keepsakes while enjoying the festivities. Participants also had the opportunity to search for several Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce Treasures hidden along the trail system. Among the unique finds were handcrafted blown-glass cowboy hats created by students at the University of Montana Western, adding an extra element of adventure to the day. After crossing the finish line, participants gathered to enjoy complimentary donuts and celebrate a successful morning outdoors. Top Finishers 15K Overall Tamer Mische-Richter – 1:20:20.8 Elena Oard – 1:23:30.7 Paul Monk – 1:26:30.5 5K Overall Gavin Garrison – 22:18.6 Joel Smith – 23:58.5 Benjamin Smith – 24:10.0 5K Kids Division M. Spotts – 35:27.9 Branch Clancy – 37:39.6 R. Nichols – 1:20:52.2 The annual Pronghorn Pursuit serves as both a fundraiser for the Beaverhead Trails Coalition and a community celebration of National Trails Day, encouraging residents and visitors alike to get outside, stay active, and experience the scenic trails of Beaverhead County. A full list of runners and times can be found here

DILLON, Mont. — The Montana Youth Challenge Academy (MYCA) and the Montana National Guard say they remain focused on supporting cadets, staff, and families as they continue to mourn the recent loss of a cadet. In a statement released this week, academy officials said the tragedy has had a profound impact on the close-knit MYCA community, including cadets, faculty, staff, alumni, and families. Leadership emphasized that the thoughts and prayers of the academy and the Montana National Guard remain with the cadet's loved ones and fellow students. Since the incident occurred, MYCA has implemented a coordinated support effort aimed at ensuring the well-being of those affected. Academy leadership has maintained daily contact with cadets and employees through individual check-ins, small group discussions, and ongoing communication designed to provide encouragement and support. Professional counselors, mental health providers, clergy members, and crisis response professionals have been made available to cadets and staff. The academy continues to offer opportunities for individual counseling, group discussions, grief support, and confidential conversations, encouraging anyone in need to utilize those resources. "Our team is committed to ensuring every member of this community knows they are supported," said Melissa Robbins, Director of the Montana Youth Challenge Academy. "We will continue to provide opportunities for connection, counseling, and engagement for as long as they are needed. We are a family at MYCA, and we will walk through this difficult time together." The academy has also worked closely with the Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office, Dillon Police Department, the University of Montana Western, local first responders, the Montana National Guard, the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, community mental health providers, clergy, and other partners to provide comprehensive support services. Officials said MYCA continues to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation and will not speculate on the circumstances surrounding the incident until it is complete. As a state-accredited high school serving Montana youth, the academy also reiterated its commitment to protecting the privacy of its cadets and their families. In accordance with state privacy laws and out of respect for the family, MYCA will not release identifying information or personal details regarding the cadet and has asked the public and media to respect the family's privacy during this time. Brig. Gen. Trent Gibson, Adjutant General of Montana and a former MYCA director, said the loss has deeply affected the entire academy and Montana National Guard family. "Every cadet who comes through these doors becomes part of the MYCA family," Gibson said. "Right now, our focus remains on caring for our cadets, supporting our staff, and ensuring every person impacted by this loss knows they are not facing it alone." The Montana Youth Challenge Academy and the Montana National Guard say they remain committed to providing continued care, resources, and support to cadets, faculty, staff, and families in the days and weeks ahead.

DILLON, Mont. — The Beaverhead County Transportation Committee will hold its annual meeting on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in the Commissioners' Room of the Beaverhead County Courthouse. The meeting is being conducted in accordance with Montana Code Annotated §§ 20-10-131 and 20-10-132 and will focus on matters related to student transportation throughout the county. During the meeting, committee members will review school bus routes submitted by local school trustees and may approve, disapprove, or make adjustments to those routes as needed. The committee will also consider applications approved by school trustees for increased reimbursement for individual student transportation. These requests are intended to assist eligible families whose residences are located in isolated areas and qualify for additional transportation reimbursement. The annual meeting plays an important role in ensuring that transportation services and reimbursement requests are evaluated and administered in accordance with state law and the needs of Beaverhead County students and families.

DILLON, Mont. — The Dillon Public Library has a busy week of activities planned for families, children, and teens, with events ranging from dinosaur-themed programs and live raptors to a community fundraiser and an evening adventure in Bannack. The week kicks off on Thursday, June 11, with "Digging Up Bones," part of the library's Thursday Theme series. The program will be held from 10 a.m. to noon at the Dillon Public Library and promises hands-on fun for young dinosaur enthusiasts. On Sunday, June 14, the library will participate in the Sunday Stick Horse Stampede fundraiser at Jaycee Park, benefiting The Village and ECCBC. Registration opens at 3 p.m., with races beginning at 5 p.m. The Dillon Public Library will host a table featuring a children's craft for attendees to enjoy throughout the event. Teens can head to Bannack on Tuesday, June 16, for a special Teen Tuesday Hide-N-Seek event beginning at 6 p.m. Participants must complete a liability waiver before taking part, and parents or guardians are responsible for transportation to and from the event. The excitement continues on Wednesday, June 17, when the Montana Raptor Conservation Center brings its popular Live Raptors program to the Depot Theatre. The free public presentation will feature live birds of prey and educational demonstrations during two showtimes at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. The week wraps up on Thursday, June 18, with another Thursday Theme event, "It's All Fun and Games… 'Til a T-Rex," from 10 a.m. to noon at the Dillon Public Library. The dinosaur-themed program is designed to provide children with an entertaining and educational experience through games and activities. All events are open to the community, with many offered free of charge, providing opportunities for learning, creativity, and family fun throughout the week.

DILLON, Mont. — Wednesday morning, law enforcement officers responded to the Town Pump on North Montana Street in Dillon following reports of an unwanted and disruptive individual. According to scanner traffic from the scene, the individual had reportedly been inside the store earlier, where he was allegedly throwing items at a cashier. Store staff asked the person to leave the property, but he remained in the parking lot and continued behaving in a disruptive manner. When officers with the Dillon Police Department arrived to speak with the individual, he allegedly became combative and began fighting with law enforcement. A Dillon police officer, assisted by two Beaverhead County Sheriff's deputies, struggled with the suspect as they attempted to take him into custody. During the altercation, a Taser was deployed. After several moments, officers were able to restrain the individual and place him into custody. Emergency Medical Services evaluated the suspect at the scene before he was transported to the Beaverhead County Jail. No information regarding potential charges or the identity of the suspect has been released at this time. The incident remains under investigation.

Over 100 Pounds of Schedule II Controlled Substances Seized in Beaverhead County Drug Investigation Beaverhead County law enforcement officers seized more than 104 pounds of Schedule II controlled substances and arrested three individuals during the execution of a search warrant Monday morning. According to the Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office, at approximately 9:00 a.m. on Monday, June 8, 2026, deputies, assisted by multiple partner agencies, executed a search warrant at a local truck stop in a rural area outside of Dillon. During the operation, authorities seized just over 104 pounds of Schedule II controlled substances. Three people were taken into custody in connection with the investigation. Officials stated that there is no danger to the public related to the incident at this time. The Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office also expressed its appreciation to the agencies that assisted with the operation, including the Montana Highway Patrol, Dillon Police Department, Beaverhead Ambulance, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI), and the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department. No additional information regarding the identities of those arrested or potential charges has been released. The investigation remains ongoing, and more details may become available as the case progresses.

DILLON — The public is invited to learn about one of Montana's most remarkable historical figures when Agatha Award-winning author Leslie Budewitz presents a program on Mary Fields, better known as "Stagecoach Mary," on Tuesday, June 9, at the Depot Theater. Fields, born into slavery in Tennessee in 1832, lived an extraordinary life that took her from the Mississippi River to the Montana Territory, where she became a legendary figure known for her independence, determination, and pioneering spirit. After gaining her freedom following the Civil War, Fields worked as a chambermaid aboard the steamboat Robert E. Lee. Her life eventually became intertwined with Mother Mary Amadeus, an Ursuline nun who established a school for Native American girls at St. Peter's Mission near Cascade. When Mother Amadeus fell ill, Fields traveled to Montana to care for her and remained at the mission for several years. Known for her strong personality and colorful language, Fields eventually left the convent and settled in Cascade, where she became a beloved member of the community. She later earned distinction as what is believed to be the first Black woman in the United States to carry U.S. mail on a Star Route, transporting mail between Cascade and St. Peter's Mission. Budewitz explores the life and legacy of Stagecoach Mary through three interconnected short stories featured in her book All God's Sparrows. In addition to her historical fiction work, Budewitz is the author of the popular Spice Shop Mystery series and the Food Lovers' Village Mysteries. She has also written two mystery novels under the pen name Alicia Beckman. The evening will include a presentation by Budewitz, followed by a book signing and reception with light refreshments. Doors open at 6:00 p.m., with the program beginning at 6:30 p.m. Admission is free, although donations will be accepted at the door. The event is sponsored by The Bookstore, the Dillon Public Library, the Beaverhead County Museum, and the Dillon Friends of the Library. For additional information, call 406-683-6807.

SALMON, Idaho — Sawyer Tackett drove in five runs on three hits as the Dillon Cubs powered past the Salmon Savages 20-12 in a high-scoring summer league matchup Saturday. The Cubs' offense was on full display, collecting 19 hits and building an early lead before holding off a late Salmon rally. Dillon wasted little time getting on the scoreboard. In the first inning, Parker Mills doubled to drive in two runs and give the Cubs an early advantage. The Cubs added five more runs in the second inning. Sawyer Tackett drew a bases-loaded walk, Andrew Bartlome also walked to force in a run, Kanin Engelhardt reached on a fielder's choice that scored a run, Trenton Moreni grounded out to bring home another, and Mills capped the inning with a run-scoring double to left field. Dillon continued to add on in the third when Tackett singled down the left-field line, driving in two more runs and extending the lead to 9-0. Salmon mounted a comeback effort in the sixth inning, scoring six runs on four hits. Clayton Allen and Noah Cranney each delivered RBI singles, while Eli Pakuer added a two-run double. The Savages added five more runs in the seventh inning, highlighted by a two-run double from Allen, trimming the Cubs' lead and making the game competitive. However, Dillon responded with a six-run outburst in the eighth inning. Tackett delivered a two-run double, Bartlome added a two-run single, and Mills tripled home two more runs to put the game out of reach. Tackett finished with five RBIs, going 3-for-5 with a single, double, and a bases-loaded walk. Mills led the Cubs with four hits, going 4-for-6 while driving in five runs. Kanin Engelhardt, Andrew Bartlome, and Ben Peacock each added multiple hits for Dillon. Aiden Ferguson earned the win on the mound for the Cubs, allowing seven runs, just two earned, on four hits over 5 2/3 innings while striking out five and walking four. Wyatt Pilkerton took the loss for Salmon after surrendering 12 runs, nine earned, over 5 1/3 innings. The Cubs' bullpen helped secure the victory as Engelhardt, Bartlome, and Cooper Clarke each tossed scoreless innings in relief. Clayton Allen and Eli Pakuer each collected two hits for Salmon, with Allen driving in three runs. The Savages showed patience at the plate, drawing 10 walks in the contest. Dillon's offense finished with 19 hits and six walks in one of its most productive performances of the season.

DILLON — The Dillon Cubs opened their home schedule Friday night at Ray Lynch Park, hosting the Belgrade Bandits in an American Legion doubleheader. Despite a strong offensive effort in the opener, the Cubs dropped both games to the visiting Bandits. Bandits Edge Cubs 5-3 in Game One The Cubs outhit the Bandits 9-4 in the first game but were unable to overcome defensive miscues as Belgrade claimed a 5-3 victory. Dillon struck first in the bottom of the first inning when Trenton Moreni doubled to drive in a run and give the Cubs an early 1-0 lead. Belgrade answered in the second on a sacrifice fly by Andrew Hazen before taking a 2-1 lead in the third when Chance Stephens delivered an RBI single. The Cubs tied the game in the fourth on an RBI single by Ben Peacock, but Belgrade regained the lead in the fifth with the help of a Dillon error and another RBI from Stephens. Moreni paced the Cubs offensively, going a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate with a double and three singles. Andrew Bartlome added two hits for Dillon. Sawyer Tackett took the loss despite a solid outing on the mound. Tackett pitched six innings, allowing five runs, none of them earned, on four hits while striking out five and walking two. Memphis Wagner earned the win for Belgrade, pitching 6 2/3 innings while striking out nine Cubs hitters. Stephens recorded the save. Bandits Explode Early in 15-0 Nightcap Victory Belgrade carried its momentum into the second game, using a 10-run third inning to secure a 15-0 victory and complete the doubleheader sweep. The Bandits jumped out quickly in the first inning, scoring three runs highlighted by a two-run double from Max Zimmer. Belgrade added two more runs in the second before breaking the game open in the third. The Bandits' big third inning featured RBI hits from Bradley Welch III, Cade Thomas, Andrew Hazen, Hudson Trullinger, and Memphis Wagner. Trullinger's three-run double highlighted the inning as Belgrade sent 15 batters to the plate. Dillon collected six hits in the contest, with Trenton Moreni, Kanin Engelhardt, Andrew Bartlome, Landon Lovaas, Parker Mills, and Sawyer Tackett each recording a hit. Moreni started on the mound for the Cubs and was charged with the loss after pitching two innings. Brayton VanDyken earned the win for Belgrade, throwing five scoreless innings while striking out seven and allowing six hits. Chance Stephens led Belgrade with two hits, while Trullinger and Zimmer each drove in three runs. The Bandits also showed patience at the plate, drawing 12 walks during the game. The doubleheader marked the home season opener for the Cubs, who will look to bounce back when they travel to face the Butte Miners on Monday.

DILLON — The Dillon Public Library is serving up some fun for local teens as it launches the first Teen Tuesday event of its 2026 Summer Reading Program. Teens ages 13 to 18 are invited to join library staff on Tuesday at 6 p.m. at the pickleball courts located at 1573 Overland Road for an evening of learning and playing one of the nation's fastest-growing sports. Participants will have the opportunity to learn the basics of pickleball, play games, and enjoy snacks, including pickle-flavored chips, pickle Popsicles, and bottled water. A parent or guardian waiver will be required for participation. In addition to the activities, one lucky teen will win a pickleball set. The library is also reminding teens to mark their calendars for one of the program's most anticipated annual events. The Annual Bannack Hide-and-Seek for teens is scheduled for June 16. Library officials encourage families to stop by the Dillon Public Library to pick up a 2026 Summer Reading Program brochure, which includes a complete schedule of events and activities planned throughout the summer. For additional information about the Summer Reading Program or Teen Tuesday events, contact the Dillon Public Library at 406-683-4544.

DILLON — The City of Dillon is currently accepting applications for two important leadership positions: Mayor and Director of Operations. The openings come as the city works to fill the vacancy in the Mayor's Office following the resignation of Mayor Mike Klakken and continues its search for a Director of Operations to oversee several key city departments. Applications Being Accepted for Mayor Appointment The Dillon City Council is seeking qualified residents interested in being appointed to serve as Mayor until a successor is elected and qualified during the 2027 general election. According to the city, the council plans to appoint a mayor during its July 1, 2026, City Council meeting. Applications must be submitted by June 26, 2026, at noon. Under Montana law, applicants must: Be at least 21 years old. Be a registered voter in Montana. Have been a Montana resident for at least three years. Have been a resident of the City of Dillon for at least two years preceding the appointment. Meet all other legal qualifications for office. Interested candidates are asked to submit: A letter of interest explaining why they want to serve as mayor and their qualifications. A resume or professional summary outlining education, experience, and community involvement. Any additional supporting materials they wish the City Council to consider. Applications may be submitted in person, by mail, or by email to the Dillon City Clerk's Office at 125 N. Idaho Street. Director of Operations Position Open The City of Dillon is also accepting applications for the position of Director of Operations. The Director of Operations supervises, directs, and plans the daily activities of the city's water and sewer, street and alley, cemetery, bus service, animal control, and parks departments. The position also includes enforcement of city codes and ordinances. Minimum qualifications include: A valid Montana driver's license. A bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, political science, business management, or a related field from an accredited college or university; or Five years of experience as a municipal administrator; or A combination of education and experience that meets the requirements. Applicants for the Director of Operations position are asked to submit a city application, resume, and cover letter to the City Clerk's Office at 125 N. Idaho Street. The mayoral application deadline is June 26, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. The City Council is expected to make the appointment during its July 1 meeting. For additional information regarding the mayoral appointment process, contact City Clerk Kami Hoerning at 406-683-4245.

DILLON — Firefighters are responding to the Dubois Fire, a small wildfire burning in the East Pioneer Mountains northwest of Dillon. According to Thursday morning's wildfire update, the fire is located between Bond Lake and Deerhead Lake below Torrey Mountain and is currently estimated at less than one acre in size. Fire crews planned to conduct a helicopter reconnaissance flight Thursday morning while working to establish access to the fire area, which is inaccessible by vehicle. The fire is burning in steep, rocky terrain containing heavy concentrations of standing dead trees, commonly known as snags, along with downed lodgepole pine. Officials report that fire behavior has remained limited, with creeping and smoldering activity observed. Residents and travelers may notice smoke from several locations throughout the region. Smoke is expected to be visible from Interstate 15 between Divide and Dillon, as well as from eastern valleys stretching from Twin Bridges to Sheridan. Fire managers continue to monitor the situation and will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.

DILLON — Artists from across Southwest Montana are being invited to share their creativity and support a meaningful cause through the 2026 Gallery of Hope fundraiser benefiting the Women's Resource Center (WRC). Presented in partnership with Resolute Roots Realty and Vessey Properties, the Gallery of Hope celebrates the healing power of art while raising awareness and support for survivors of domestic and sexual violence. This year's theme, "Inspiring Healing," encourages artists to create works that reflect hope, resilience, recovery, and personal growth. Original artwork submissions will be accepted through July 13, 2026. Artists of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to participate, with entries welcomed in a variety of mediums including painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, fiber arts, and other forms of creative expression. Each artist may submit up to three original works. Selected artwork will be displayed throughout the Ruby Valley and Madison Valley from July 20 through August 19, leading up to the Gallery of Hope event on August 22 in Ennis. Artists who choose to donate their work will have their pieces featured in the event's silent auction, with proceeds directly benefiting the Women's Resource Center and the individuals and families it serves throughout Southwest Montana. Since 1977, the Women's Resource Center has provided free and confidential services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence. Services include crisis intervention, advocacy, outreach and education, and emergency shelter for survivors and their families. Submission guidelines and entry forms are available at tinyurl.com/WRCGalleryofHope. For additional information about artwork submissions or event details, contact Resolute Roots Realty at 406-842-5973 or visit the Resolute Roots Realty or Women's Resource Center Facebook pages. Organizers encourage community members and artists alike to participate in creating an evening centered on hope, healing, and connection through the power of art.

DILLON — The Dillon Public Library is preparing to launch its 2026 Summer Reading Program with a kickoff event on Thursday, June 4, from 10 a.m. to noon at the library. This year's theme, "Unearth A Story," encourages readers of all ages to explore books, discover new interests, and participate in a variety of educational and entertaining programs throughout June and July. To accommodate the kickoff event, the library will be closed until 1 p.m. on June 4. In addition, the library's parking lot will be closed every Thursday morning through June and July until 1 p.m. to help ensure the safety of participants attending outdoor programs. Library officials also announced that all Thursday programs will be held at the Dillon Public Library this year rather than at the Beaverhead County Museum's Depot Theatre. The Summer Reading Program schedule includes: Teen Tuesdays (Ages 13-18) June and July 6 p.m. Locations vary Wednesday Matinees and Presentations 3 p.m. Beaverhead County Museum Depot Theatre Special Note: On June 17, Raptors will present two shows at 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Thursday Programs 10 a.m. to noon Dillon Public Library The Summer Reading Program is open to participants of all ages and offers opportunities for children, teens, and adults to stay engaged in reading and learning throughout the summer. For more information about the program or upcoming events, contact the Dillon Public Library at 683-4544.