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Beaverhead County Mental Health Local Advisory Counsel Montana Room-Lucy Carson Library UM Western Campus, Dillon, MT AGENDA Thursday, July 9, 2026, Noon to 2:00 p.m. Introductions - Establish Quorum Approval of Minutes – May 14, June 11 meeting DISCUSSION/ACTION ITEMS: 1. JG Research Presentation on Crisis Dashboard 2. Action- Community and Capacity Luncheon Funds 3. Prevention Bureau Program Officer, DPHHS UPDATES 1. Local updates NEW BUSINESS NOT ON AGENDA ADJOURN

Montana Shakespeare in the Parks will hold a free performance of Shakespeare’s "The Merchant of Venice" on Friday, July 31, at 6:00 p.m. at the University of Montana Western’s Legacy Plaza. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, and a picnic dinner, and enjoy an evening of live Shakespeare! The Merchant of Venice explores justice, mercy, prejudice, and the longing to belong in a divided world. As Bassanio seeks Portia’s hand and Antonio enters a dangerous bond with Shylock, the young Jessica risks everything to leave her father’s house in search of love and freedom. Through romance and courtroom drama, Shakespeare examines the cost of exclusion and the transformative power of mercy. “The Merchant of Venice is one of the most complete plays in Shakespeare’s canon,” says director Kevin Asselin. “It offers so much for audiences: the young people in the play have a fascinating journey, but it’s the deeper questions that Shylock, Antonio, and Portia navigate on a truly human level that I find most compelling as a director.” Montana Shakespeare in the Parks has been bringing the timeless works of William Shakespeare to communities across Montana and neighboring states for over 50 years. Renowned for its high-quality, free outdoor performances, the program aims to make the arts accessible to all, fostering a love for theater and literature in audiences of all ages. Each summer, the cast and crew travel thousands of miles to bring Shakespeare’s plays to parks, town squares, and public spaces throughout the region. This summer, the company performs in 64 communities across five states, including Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, North Dakota, and Washington, serving over 20,000 audience members annually with free performances. To see the full Montana Shakespeare in the Parks tour schedule, visit https://shakespeareintheparks.org. Montana Western’s School of Outreach has brought Montana Shakespeare in the Parks to the Dillon community since 1986 and is a local sponsor of the event. We would like to thank our premier local sponsor, Pioneer State Bank, and our additional local sponsors: McIsaac Appraisal and the UMW Foundation. For more information, please contact the School of Outreach at 406-683-7537 or outreach@umwestern.edu.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE MEETING (Water/Sewer/Street/Alley) ~ AGENDA ~ Wednesday, July 8th, 2026 4:00 PM 1. Call to Order 2. Update on Pavement Preservation and Signage 3. Update on Painting of Crosswalks 4. Update on Street Signs 5. Public Comment on Items Not on Agenda but Within the Jurisdiction of The City 6. Adjournment Committee Members Russ Schwandt, Chair Raymond Graham Mike Brumbaugh

DILLON, Mont. — Dillon Days has announced the winners of its annual Car Show, which was held on July 3 as part of this year's Dillon Days celebration. The event brought together classic car enthusiasts and spectators from around the region to admire a wide variety of vintage and restored vehicles. This year's award winners are: All American Classic: Gary Weber — 1966 Pontiac GTO Best of Show: John Mitchell — 1968 Chevrolet Camaro People's Choice: Don Tamietti — 1955 Chevrolet The Dillon Days Car Show remains a popular tradition of the annual celebration, showcasing beautifully restored vehicles while bringing together car enthusiasts and the community. Congratulations to all of this year's winners and participants for helping make another successful Dillon Days Car Show.

DILLON, Mont. — The Dillon Public Library has another week of activities planned as part of its popular Summer Reading Program, which continues to see record participation from the community. Teen Tuesday – Let Them Eat Cake! On Tuesday, July 7, at 6 p.m., teens ages 13-18 are invited to the Dillon Public Library for Teen Tuesday: Let Them Eat Cake! Lacey Pape will lead participants through the art of cake decorating, helping each teen create their own edible masterpiece to take home. The evening will also feature a contest to crown the Best Decorated Cake. Free Movie at the Depot Theatre On Wednesday, July 8, at 3 p.m., the Museum's Depot Theatre will host a free showing of The Croods. Library officials remind attendees that no food, candy, or drinks are allowed inside the theater. Thursday Theme: Unearth the Wonderful World of Worms! The Summer Reading Program continues on Thursday, July 9, from 10 a.m. to noon at the Dillon Public Library with the theme "Unearth the Wonderful World of Worms!" Families are invited to participate in educational activities and hands-on fun centered around the fascinating world beneath our feet. Record Participation Continues The library reports that 540 people have registered for this year's Summer Reading Program, surpassing last summer's participation by 120 readers. Library staff thanked the community for its enthusiastic support and noted that registration is still open for anyone wishing to participate. The Summer Reading Program is made possible through grant funding from Pioneer Federal Savings & Loan and Town Pump. For more information about any of the library's summer programs, call the Dillon Public Library at (406) 683-4544.

DILLON, Mont. — A 17-year-old female was arrested Friday evening after allegedly leading law enforcement on a pursuit that began in Sheridan and ended in Dillon. According to information provided, the pursuit began on the evening of July 3 when officers in Sheridan attempted to stop a Dodge Charger for speeding. Instead of stopping, the driver allegedly fled, leading officers on a pursuit through Twin Bridges before continuing east on Montana Highway 41 toward Dillon. The pursuit came to an end when the driver pulled into the Murdoch's Ranch & Home Supply parking lot, where she surrendered without further incident. The 17-year-old was taken into custody and arrested on charges of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, driving without a valid driver's license, and operating a vehicle without registration or insurance. Authorities also said multiple additional charges are expected to be filed in Madison County in connection with the pursuit. No injuries were reported during the incident. The case remains under investigation, and additional information may be released as it becomes available.

DILLON, Mont. — The Beaverhead Trails Coalition (BTC) is working with Northwest Energy to restore areas impacted by a power pole replacement project completed earlier this year on BTC property. According to a press release from the Beaverhead Trails Coalition, Northwest Energy began replacing several power poles in April 2026 as part of the utility company's avian protection program. The project required the use of existing two-track roads and created areas of surface disturbance while crews completed the work. BTC said it is working closely with Northwest Energy to ensure all affected trails and surrounding areas are restored to their original condition. Preliminary regrading has already been completed at the most heavily disturbed locations. The coalition noted that reclamation plans for the Tim's Ridge Trail are still being discussed and is asking trail users to use caution while traveling through the area. Revegetation and weed mitigation efforts are expected to continue for up to five years across all areas impacted by the project to help restore vegetation and reduce the spread of invasive weeds. Anyone with questions or concerns about the reclamation project is encouraged to contact Jamie Cottom with the Beaverhead Trails Coalition at beaverheadtrails@gmail.com.

DILLON, Mont. — One of the favorite traditions of the Dillon Days Fourth of July celebration returned once again as the annual Duck Race was held on July 4, drawing participants and spectators to the community event. Following the race, organizers announced the winning ducks for the 2026 event: 1st Place: Jan Mailey 2nd Place: Darlene Clark 3rd Place: Susan Jones Congratulations to this year's winners, and thank you to everyone who participated in helping make the annual Dillon Days Duck Race another successful community tradition.

A pickup truck towing a camper trailer overturned Saturday afternoon after strong winds reportedly caught the trailer, causing it to pull the truck onto its side. According to the Madison Valley Rural Fire Department, the crash occurred on July 5 at approximately 3:00 p.m. near the intersection of Prairie Way and U.S. Highway 287. Emergency crews from the Madison Valley Rural Fire Department, Madison Valley Ambulance, and the Madison County Sheriff's Office responded to the single-vehicle accident. When first responders arrived, both occupants of the pickup truck were trapped inside the vehicle. Firefighters quickly and safely extricated the passenger, while the driver was able to self-extricate. Emergency medical personnel evaluated both occupants at the scene, and neither sustained injuries in the crash. According to the driver, a strong gust of wind caught the camper trailer, causing it to overturn and pull the pickup truck onto its side. The Madison Valley Rural Fire Department is reminding motorists towing campers, trailers, and other large loads to use extra caution during periods of strong winds. Sudden gusts can quickly create hazardous driving conditions, particularly for vehicles towing travel trailers and campers. Despite the dramatic nature of the rollover, the incident ended without injuries, and officials are encouraging everyone traveling this summer to remain alert and drive safely. Photo Credit Madison Valley Rural Fire Department Facebook Page

Updated 5:27 PM Montana Highway Patrol is now reporting the crash as a fatality. We will have more information when the Montana Highway Patrol releases the report. BEAVERHEAD COUNTY, Mont. — Sunday afternoon, first responders were dispatched to a single-vehicle rollover crash on Interstate 15 southbound near mile marker 85. According to witnesses at the scene, a gray pickup truck was traveling southbound when it began to drift off the roadway. The truck struck a guardrail, broke through it, and rolled over, coming to rest on its roof. Emergency crews responded quickly to assist the occupants and secure the scene. At this time, the exact number of people inside the vehicle has not been confirmed. Injuries were reported, and Beaverhead Ambulance transported at least one occupant to the hospital for treatment. Traffic in the area was impacted while first responders worked the scene and the vehicle was recovered. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Southwestern Montana News will provide additional updates as more information becomes available.

LIMA, Mont. — First responders from Lima were called to a single-vehicle rollover Sunday afternoon on Interstate 15 near mile marker 20 after strong winds overturned an empty semi-truck. According to information from the scene, the tractor-trailer was traveling southbound on I-15 when a powerful gust of wind caught the side of the vehicle, pushing it over onto its side. The semi was not carrying a load at the time of the crash, which likely helped prevent a more serious incident. A driver traveling behind the semi said they could feel the intensity of the wind moments before watching the truck and trailer tip onto their side. Fortunately, the driver of the semi was not injured in the rollover. Crews responded to the scene to assist with traffic control and recovery of the overturned vehicle.

LIMA — While Lima may be one of Southwest Montana's smaller communities, it once again proved it knows how to throw a big Fourth of July celebration. Residents and visitors packed the town throughout the day to celebrate both Independence Day and America's 250th birthday with a full schedule of family-friendly activities. The festivities kicked off with the first-ever Freedom Car Show, drawing nearly 40 vehicles from around the region. From classic cruisers and restored pickups to modern muscle cars and custom builds, there was something to catch the eye of every automotive enthusiast—and even those who simply enjoyed strolling through the impressive display. The celebration continued with Lima's annual Fourth of July Parade down Main Street. Darrell Thornton was honored as the Grand Marshal. Spectators lined the streets waving flags and cheering as colorful floats, classic vehicles, emergency responders, local organizations, and community members made their way through town. Following the parade, everyone gathered at the town park for a traditional community potluck. Volunteers served hamburgers and hot dogs while families shared homemade side dishes and desserts, creating a true small-town celebration where neighbors and visitors alike came together around the picnic tables. The afternoon featured plenty of friendly competition and entertainment. Participants tested their skills in the annual horseshoe tournament, while children and families laughed their way through a three-legged race, sack races, and an egg toss. One of the day's biggest highlights came at 3 p.m., when a plane swooped low over town and released hundreds of brightly colored ping pong balls from the sky. Children scrambled across the park collecting the colorful balls, each representing a chance to win prizes in one of Lima's most anticipated Fourth of July traditions. Families also enjoyed a free swim day at the Lima Community Swimming Pool, offering a welcome way to cool off during the warm summer afternoon. As darkness settled over the valley, residents gathered one final time for a spectacular fireworks display, providing a patriotic ending to a day filled with community pride, family fun, and celebration. From the inaugural Freedom Car Show to the parade, potluck, games, ping pong ball drop, swimming, and fireworks, Lima's Fourth of July celebration once again demonstrated that while the town may be small in size, it is rich in tradition, community spirit, and hometown pride.

DILLON — Dillon Days, sponsored by the Dillon Montana Community Foundation, returned July 3-5 with one of its biggest celebrations yet, bringing hundreds of residents and visitors together for three days of patriotic festivities, live entertainment, competitions and community pride as America celebrated its 250th birthday. The annual event continues to grow each year, and 2026 was no exception. One of the weekend's biggest attractions was the classic car show, where more than 30 beautifully restored and customized vehicles lined the streets of downtown Dillon, giving spectators an opportunity to admire everything from vintage classics to modern muscle cars. Creativity also took center stage during the unique songwriting competition. Contestants drew a random word and were given just 24 hours to write and perform an original song inspired by their selection, showcasing local musical talent and plenty of originality. Festivities kicked off on July 3 with a community hike to the iconic "M", followed by a presentation about the historic Spirit of America Goodyear Blimp. The patriotic theme continued throughout the weekend with a public reading of the Declaration of Independence, reminding attendees of the nation's founding 250 years ago. Local musicians Tanner Laws and Joel Longie kept crowds entertained with live performances that added to the festive atmosphere throughout the celebration. Perhaps the most anticipated event of Dillon Days was the Kansas City Barbeque Society-sanctioned BBQ Cook-Off, which drew more than 25 competition teams from around the region. Pitmasters spent hours perfecting their recipes while judges evaluated entries in multiple categories including chicken, ribs, pork and brisket before determining the overall champions. 2026 Dillon Days BBQ Cook-Off Overall Champions Brinkerhoff BBQ – 704.5600 Texas Smoke Whisperer – 704.5484 Colorado Bulldawg BBQ – 701.1316 Several teams also earned category honors throughout the competition, including perfect scores in individual meat categories by Brinkerhoff BBQ and Colorado Bulldawg BBQ. The weekend concluded Sunday morning with a community worship service at Jaycee Park, bringing the celebration to a close on a reflective and thankful note. With patriotic celebrations, family activities, outstanding barbecue, classic cars, live music and community fellowship, Dillon Days once again proved why it has become one of Southwest Montana's signature summer traditions. As the event continues to grow each year, organizers are already looking ahead to making next year's celebration even bigger.

HELENA, Mont. — The Dillon Cubs opened their Fourth of July weekend with an impressive doubleheader sweep over the Helena Reps on Thursday, July 2, earning a pair of exciting victories, 5-4 and 11-10, in Helena. The Cubs showed resilience in both contests, rallying late in the opener before holding off a furious comeback in a high-scoring nightcap. Tackett Delivers Late Heroics in Opener Game one was a back-and-forth battle that wasn't decided until the final inning. Dillon struck first in the top of the third when Ben Peacock laid down a perfectly executed sacrifice bunt to score the game's first run. Helena answered in the bottom half of the inning, taking a 2-1 lead on an RBI triple by Rex Snezek. The Cubs reclaimed the advantage in the sixth inning. RBI singles from Andrew Bartlome and Parker Mills helped Dillon score three runs and move in front 4-2. Helena refused to go away, tying the game 4-4 in the bottom of the sixth after Sam Spurzem delivered an RBI single. With the game on the line in the top of the seventh, Sawyer Tackett came through in the clutch, lining a single that drove home the go-ahead run to give Dillon a 5-4 lead. Tackett then closed the door on the mound, earning the victory after pitching 1⅓ scoreless innings in relief. Starter Trenton Moreni kept the Cubs in the game, striking out six while allowing four runs (three earned) over 5⅔ innings. Bartlome led the offense by going 2-for-2 with two RBIs and three walks. Tackett and Sawyer Crowe also collected two hits apiece as Dillon finished with six walks and turned a double play defensively. Cubs Outslug Helena in 11-10 Thriller If the opener wasn't exciting enough, game two featured an offensive explosion from both teams. The Cubs wasted little time taking control, erupting for eight runs in the first inning. A wild pitch scored the opening run before Peacock singled home two more. Gordon Broeder followed with an RBI single, another run scored on an error, and Bartlome capped the inning with a three-run double to put Dillon firmly in front. Helena battled back throughout the game, eventually tying the contest in the third inning. Dillon answered in the fourth when Trenton Moreni drove in the eventual game-winning run with a groundout, putting the Cubs back on top 9-8. The Reps continued to pressure the Cubs, collecting 14 hits, but Dillon's bullpen held strong. Kanin Engelhardt earned the win with four innings of relief, allowing just two unearned runs while scattering six hits. Sawyer Tackett recorded the save to secure the sweep. Bartlome once again led the Cubs offensively, finishing 2-for-4 with four RBIs, including the bases-clearing double in the first inning. Peacock added two hits and two RBIs, while Tackett drew two walks as Dillon again showed patience at the plate with six free passes. Despite Helena outhitting Dillon 14-8, timely hitting and strong relief pitching proved to be the difference. Sam Spurzem led the Reps with four hits, while Judah Evans, Grady Hatten, and Joey Cetraro each added multiple-hit performances. The doubleheader sweep gives the Cubs momentum heading into their next contest as Dillon travels to face the Gallatin Valley Outlaws on Tuesday.

BEAVERHEAD COUNTY, Mont. — Thursday proved to be a busy day for first responders across Beaverhead County as emergency crews responded to multiple incidents, including two vehicle fires and a river rescue. The day began Thursday morning when firefighters were dispatched to Ten Mile Road for an engine fire according to scanner traffic. Crews quickly responded and worked to bring the fire under control. Later in the day, emergency personnel were called to Browns Bridge on the Big Hole River after receiving reports of a capsized boat. Details on the number of occupants and whether there were any injuries have not yet been released. First responders were then dispatched to a vehicle fire on Interstate 15 southbound near mile marker 36. According to information from the scene, a pickup truck towing a camp trailer suffered an engine compartment fire. The driver was able to safely pull the vehicle onto the shoulder before the flames intensified. Firefighters worked to extinguish the burning truck, but the fire spread into the dry grass along the interstate. Due to the growing grass fire, additional resources were requested from the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department and the U.S. Forest Service to help contain the blaze and prevent it from spreading further. The extent of the damage and the causes of the incidents remain under investigation. Southwestern Montana News will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Celebrating America's 250th Birthday This Saturday, July 4, America celebrates its 250th Birthday, and communities across Southwest Montana are marking the occasion with parades, rodeos, fireworks, live music, family activities, BBQs, and much more. Southwestern Montana News has done the work for you! We've gathered events from around the region and organized them by date and time so you can easily plan your holiday weekend. 📅 Friday, July 3 Dillon – Dillon Days Throughout the day: Blowin' Smoke BBQ Cook-Off Vendors & Sidewalk Sales Live Entertainment Family Activities Ennis 7:00 p.m.🤠 90th Annual Ennis Rodeo Ennis Rodeo Grounds Gates open before the performance One of Montana's premier Independence Day rodeos. Butte Evening Fireworks launched from the base of the famous "Big M." 📅 Saturday, July 4 Dillon – Dillon Days Throughout the Day Fourth of July Parade 🚗 Classic Car Show 🍖 Blowin' Smoke BBQ Cook-Off 🦆 Duck Race 🛍️ Sidewalk Sales 🎵 Live Music 📜 Reading of the Declaration of Independence Family Activities Approximately 10:00 p.m.🎆 Fireworks at Ray Lynch Park Polaris / Grasshopper Valley 📍 Grasshopper Valley Volunteer Fire Department 8:00–11:00 a.m. 🥞 Pancake Breakfast Fundraiser 🎟️ Silent Auction 🥧 Ladies Club Bake Sale Support your local volunteer firefighters while enjoying breakfast with family and friends. 12:00–1:00 p.m.🏃 Peggy Birkenbuel Memorial Firecracker 5K Run • Walk • Bike Starts & finishes at Ma Barnes 📍 Elkhorn Hot Springs 339 Hot Springs Road 12:00–4:00 p.m.🏊 Red, White & Blue Pool Party 🍔 Special July 4 Lunch Burgers & Hot Dogs 1:00–4:00 p.m.Explore the Grasshopper Valley Crystal Park Bannack State Park Pioneer Mountains Elkhorn Hot Springs 8:00–10:00 p.m.🎸 Live Music featuring Road Agents 10:00 p.m.🎆 Community Fireworks Lima 250 Years of Stars and Stripes Lima's 2026 Fourth of July Celebration 7:00 – 11:00 a.m.🥞 Pancake & Sausage BreakfastSponsored by the Lima Rural Volunteer Fire Department. 10:00 a.m.🙏 Community Prayer ServiceHeld at the Lima Town Park Pavilion. 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.🚗 1st Annual Freedom Car Show📍 Peat Bar & Steakhouse1 N. Broadway St. No entry fee with awards including: Best in Show People's Choice Best Car Best Truck Most Unique 12:00 p.m.🎆 Fourth of July Parade Line-Up📍 Town Hall (New Location) Approximately 12:30 p.m.🇺🇸 Lima Fourth of July ParadeFeaturing community floats, organizations, decorated cars, trucks, ATVs and UTVs. This year's parade will follow the traditional route in reverse. Immediately Following the Parade🍔 Community Potluck in the Park Hamburgers, hot dogs and salads will be provided.Guests are encouraged to bring a dessert to share. Afternoon🥇 Annual Horseshoe Tournament $40 per team Cash jackpot prizes Trophies awarded for 1st–3rd place 🎈 Kids Games Including: Money Pit Three-Legged Race Sack Race Egg Toss 🏓 Ping Pong Ball Drop Returning for this year's celebration. 3:30 – 6:00 p.m.🏊 Free Community SwimLima Community Swimming Pool. Dusk🎇 Community Fireworks Display Ennis 10:00 a.m.🇺🇸 90th Annual Fourth of July ParadeMain Street Immediately Following the Parade🍔 Ennis Lions Club PicnicPeter T's Park 12:00 p.m. US Veterans Memorial Ceremony Veterans Memorial Park 7:00 p.m.🤠 Ennis Rodeo Ennis Rodeo Grounds Virginia City Historic businesses, museums, restaurants, and attractions remain open throughout the day. Dusk🎆 Community Fireworks Display Anaconda Celebrate Independence Day in Anaconda with a full day of community events. Morning Fourth of July Parade through downtown Anaconda Throughout the Day🎶 Live Music 🍔 Food Vendors 🎈 Family Activities 🛍️ Local shopping and downtown festivities Evening🎆 Community Fireworks Display Butte 10:00 a.m. Freedom Festival Parade Throughout the Day Live Music Food Vendors Family Activities Downtown Entertainment 📅 Sunday, July 5 Dillon Dillon Days wraps up with additional community activities and events. No matter where you celebrate—from Dillon to Grasshopper Valley, Ennis, Virginia City, Anaconda, or Butte—there are plenty of ways to celebrate America's 250th Birthday with family and friends. From all of us at Southwestern Montana News, have a safe, memorable, and Happy Fourth of July!

DILLON, Mont. — Tuesday evening, first responders were dispatched to a single-vehicle rollover crash on Interstate 15 near mile marker 79. According to information from the scene, a FedEx semi-truck traveling northbound left the roadway, narrowly missing a guardrail before traveling approximately 75 yards across the roadside. The truck eventually rolled onto its passenger side. The driver was evaluated by emergency personnel at the scene but was not transported by ambulance. Emergency crews responded to secure the scene and investigate the crash. The cause of the accident has not yet been released. This is a developing story, and Southwestern Montana News will provide updates if more information becomes available.

DILLON, Mont. — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), in partnership with Jeffery Contracting, LLC, has completed construction on a section of Montana Highway 91 (MT 91) south of Dillon near Carrigan Lane. The roadway is now fully open to traffic. The project was completed in a single construction season and focused on improving safety for motorists traveling through the area. Among the upgrades, crews eased a sharp curve in the highway to improve visibility and driving conditions. The project also included widening the paved shoulders, flattening roadside slopes to provide a safer recovery area for vehicles, and enhancing roadway signage, pavement markings, and striping. In addition, rumble strips were installed to help alert drivers who may drift from their lane, further improving safety along the corridor. MDT thanks motorists and nearby residents for their patience throughout construction and encourages drivers to continue using caution while traveling through the improved section of MT 91.