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  • Beaverhead Fire District #2 Meeting

    405 N. IDAHO STREET DILLON, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY March 19, 2024 5:00 PM AGENDA: I. Call to order II. Approval of Minutes from 02-20-2023 meeting Public Comment III. Approval of Warrants Public Comment IV. Old Business Public Comment V. New Business Public Comment VI. Chiefs Report Public Comment VII. Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda. VIII. Adjournment

  • Parks Committee Meeting

    PARKS COMMITTEE MEETING City Council Chambers Wednesday March 20 th , 2024 4:00 P.M. AGENDA 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Discuss/Approve DBSA Contract for Ray Lynch Park and Irrigation Rate 3. Review/Update Park Fees 4. Discussion of Applying a Portion of Park Reservation Fees into Reserve Account 5. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City. 6. Adjourn Parks Committee Members: Raymond Graham (Chair); Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz

  • Public Hearing On Title 17 & Regular City Council Meeting

    6:45 P.M. Public Hearing on Title 17 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A.           MINUTES 1.         Approve March 6th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes B.           PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS C.        MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Discuss/Approve Amended Guza Attorney Contract 2.         Approve the Appointment of Probationary Officers, Jesse Randolph and Louis Ochoa, III. 3.         Discuss/Approve the Resolution Authorizing Application for Land & Water Conservation Fund             Assistance. 4.         Discuss/Approve City-County Health Board Amended MOU D.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Lori Canady, Library Director 2.         Planning Board  - Dan Nye, Bill Shafer 3.         Zoning Commission -  Raymond Graham, Russ Schwandt a.         Accept February 27th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes i.  Discuss/Approve Finding of Fact – UM Western Athletic Field 4.         Board of Adjustments - Diane Armstrong, Joleene Schultz 5.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6.         Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez 7.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose 8.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox 9.         Treasurer – Karen Kipp a.         Approve Cash Summary Report for December, 2023 b.         Approve Cash Bank Reconciliation Report for December, 2023 c.         Approve Stockman Bank Collateral Report for December, 2023 d.         Approve Bank of Commerce Collateral Report for December, 2023 e.         Approve Cash Summary Report for January, 2024 f.          Approve Cash Bank Reconciliation Report for January, 2024 g.         Approve Stockman Bank Collateral Report for January, 2024 10.       Tree Board – Mary Jo O’Rourke a.         Accept February 6th, 2024 Meeting Minutes E.         REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Judiciary Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Raymond Graham, Diane Armstrong a.  Approve March 12th,  2024 Regular Meeting Minutes 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Dan Nye, Anneliese Ripley 3.         Fire and Order Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Bill Shafer, Mary Jo O’Rourke 4.         Health and Welfare – Bill Shafer, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz 5.         Cemetery Committee – Diane Armstrong, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Anneliese Ripley 6.         Parks Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz 7.         City Hall Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Dan Nye, Mary Jo O’Rourke 8.         Street and Alley Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Joleen Schultz 9.         Water and Sewer Committee – Bill Shafer, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley a.         Accept March 7th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes F.         PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE  AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY G.        ADJOURNMENT PLEASE NOTE: The City of Dillon understands that citizens have the right under the Montana Constitution to observe and participate in local governmental affairs by personally attending all public meetings of the Dillon City Council and other City boards and committees. This meeting is open to the public as normal. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528, allowing permission for microphone and camera (if using a computer go to https://zoom.us/j/7703166528) and use Passcode 4245. Please mute your microphone until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245.

  • Application Deadline For 2024 Paddlefish Tags On Upper Missouri River Is March 22

    GLASGOW ̶  Paddlefish anglers planning to harvest a fish in the Upper Missouri River (between Fort Peck Dam and Fort Benton) need to apply for an Upper Missouri River paddlefish tag by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 22. For 2024, a total of 1,000 tags are available for the drawing. A 2024 fishing license is necessary before applying, and applications can be submitted online at fwp.mt.gov or at an FWP office. Anglers have the option to apply individually or as a party (up to five people) and have the option to purchase a bonus point at the time of application. There is not an E-Tag available for this license, so it cannot be used with the MyFWP app. Successful applicants may harvest a fish anytime during the season, which runs from May 1 through June 15. Those anglers not successful in drawing a harvest tag will be issued a snag-and-release license for the Upper Missouri and will not be eligible to purchase any other paddlefish tag. Drawing results will be available in early April. Additionally, anglers who did not participate in the drawing but would like to participate in snag-and-release, can purchase an Upper Missouri River paddlefish snag-and-release license at any FWP office, online or at any license provider throughout the season. Anglers may select only one area to fish for paddlefish: Upper Missouri River (White Harvest Tag  ̶  1,000 tags available through the drawing) from May 1 to June 15, Yellowstone River and Missouri River downstream of Fort Peck Dam (Yellow Harvest Tag  ̶  1,000 fish quota) from May 15 to June 30, and the Fort Peck Dredge Cut archery-only season (Blue Harvest Tag) from July 1 to Aug. 31. All harvested paddlefish must be immediately tagged and reported within 48 hours. Reporting options include: onsite check points where fish was harvested (such as Intake Fishing Access Site), self-reporting stations on the Upper Missouri and Fort Peck Dredge Cuts, calling 1-877-FWP-WILD or 406-444-0356, or online at MyFWP at fwp.mt.gov.

  • Thomas Named Frontier Conference Track Athlete of the Week

    Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. – After a successful weekend competing at the Yellowjacket/Battlin' Bear Icebreaker Open, Isaiah Thomas was named the first ERCK Hotels men's outdoor track athlete of the week of the year. Thomas claimed two event wins at the Yellowjacket/Battlin' Bear Ice Breaker Open. He won the 200 Meters with a time of 22.39 seconds while adding a win in the 100 Meters in 10.82 seconds. This is Thomas' first athlete of the week honor in his career.

  • Dillon Beavers JV & Varsity Baseball Open Season With Wins Over Stevensville Yellowjackets

    The Dillon Beavers traveled to Stevensville on Friday, March 15 to take on the Stevensville Yellowjackets for the opening season of Beaver Baseball. Both the JV team as well as the Varsity team would open the season with a win. The JV team jumped out into an early lead in the first inning. Colby Garland tripled, scoring two runs, Henry Wu singled, scoring one run, and an error scored two runs. In the second inning the Beavers would score ten runs. Colby Garland drew a walk scoring one run, an error scored another run, Jerry Haro Mora drew a walk, scoring a run, a Colby Garland singled, scoring two runs, and an error that scored two runs. Andrew Bartlome earned the win for the JV Beavers surrendering only one hit and run over three innings, no walks and striking out seven. The Beaver Varsity team would win against the Yellowjackets with a 5 to 1 score. The Beavers scored in the first inning after Sawyer Tackett singled, scoring one run, and Jase Alvarez was struck by a pitch, driving in a run. Sawyer Tackett pitching for the Beavers allowed zero hits and zero runs over three innings, striking out five and walking three. Jerry Haro- Mora threw two innings of no run-ball for the Beavers as well. Marcus Lagunas, the number seven hitter for the Beavers, led the way with two runs batted in. Trenton Moreni, Taylor Handlos, Sawyer Tackett, Cohen Hartman, Marcus Lagunas, and Jase Alvarez each collected one hit for the Beavers. Trenton Moreni and Jase Alvarez each had multiple stolen bases. The Beavers ran wild on stolen bases accumulating eight stolen bases for the game. Catch the first home game of the season this Tuesday 3 P.M. at Cubs Field Ray Lynch Park.

  • SWMT News Has A New Location

    For the past four years Southwestern Montana News has been making its mark with fast, up to the minute breaking news for the region. The goal has always been the same: to make free news available at the touch of a computer or phone screen. Sure, there have been hurdles along the way. A global pandemic, construction projects on Idaho street, the never-ending noise in our office building. We are excited to announce that we have moved into a very professional, welcoming new location! If the noise or rowdiness of our prior location scared you off before, there’s no need to fear. Those issues have been remedied and we would love to show you what’s in store for the future of our business. Our endeavors have come to fruition, and we know that is because of our readers and followers. But to put things in perspective, we literally could not have done this without our advertisers and sponsors. The ones who saw our potential when we just had the glimmer of ideas. Brenda from Womack’s Printing, Debbie from the Bookstore, Ron Carroll, Judy Siring, and  many others have not only helped secure a way to keep our doors open, but their belief in what we do, as well as their constant support either through mentoring or being a sponsor and advertiser, has attributed to our positive change in this community. We will provide you with news, event highlights, and community spotlights for years to come. For those businesses we have yet to work with, we hope you enjoy what we do for this community and look forward to connecting with you. The only way this community will thrive is through positivity and working together! Feel free to drop in at our new location at 23 North Idaho Suite 1! We’re never too busy to help make your advertising dreams a reality.

  • Beaverhead County Airport Announces Temporary Closure For Runway Reconstruction

    Beaverhead County Airport Announces Temporary Closure for Runway Reconstruction The Beaverhead County Airport Board has officially announced a temporary closure of the Beaverhead County Airport (IATA: DLN), scheduled from April 2nd, 2024, to June 28th, 2024. This closure is crucial for the comprehensive reconstruction of the Airport's runways, aimed at enhancing safety and operational efficiency for all users. The necessity for this temporary closure stems from evaluations revealing that the current runway, over 20 years old, is exhibiting signs of potential failure. After thorough consultations with aviation experts, local stakeholders, and community leaders, it was determined that a complete overhaul was essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the Airport infrastructure. Important Closure Details: Closure Period: April 2nd, 2024 to June 28th, 2024. Project Details: The reconstruction includes a complete overhaul of the main runway, repairs to the auxiliary runway, taxiways, and apron with significant upgrades to lighting and navigation systems. Operational Impact: During this period, no aircraft operations will be permitted at the Airport, necessitating the suspension of all flight operations. Special Advisory for Aircraft Owners: Aircraft owners with planes housed at Dillon Airport are advised that no operations will be possible during the construction phase. Those requiring access for flight operations to their aircraft during the closure are strongly recommended to relocate their planes to another Airport before the end of March 2024 to avoid any inconvenience and ensure the safety of all aircraft and personnel involved.

  • Weekend Rundown St. Patrick's Day Edition

    Friday March 15th Pint Night! Dillon Junior Golf $1 from every beer sold will donated to the Dillon Junior Golf program's par 3 expansion project! They will be hosting a 50/50 drawing and a putting contest during the event! Live Music At Willie's Distillery Left for dead will be returning to Willies on Friday March 15th from 5:30 to 7:30 for an evening of song, moonshine and cheer. Hope to see you there. Come on out, order up some Honey Moonshine, grab hold of the saddle horn and hang on for some great fun. Of course we don't want you to miss our show but if you get a chance, drop by Willie's anytime. Willie's has great décor and of course it's always fun to sample their moonshine and other spirits! You will Willie like Willie's! Wear some green as we will be celebrating Saint Patrick's Day a couple days early with a number of Irish tunes. Saturday March 16th Blessing & Kick-Off St Patrick's Day Join us on Saturday, March 16th at 3:30pm at Park and Main Streets as we kick off St. Patrick’s Day with a welcome from JP Gallagher and Stephanie Sorini. A blessing from Bishop Vetter and a declaration to officially start the festivities from Father Patrick Beretta. St Patrick's Day Party Don’t miss our annual St. Patrick’s day party! Saturday, March 16th, from 5-8 pm. There will be a best dressed contest, food, Irish Red Ale and Nitro Stout on tap, Irish tunes will be jamming and lots of laughs and cheer as we raise a pint to the day. Let the shenanigans begin Sunday March 17th 2024 Buttes St Patrick's Day Parade The Butte America Foundation is proud to host the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Uptown Butte on Sunday, March 17, 2024 at 12:00 PM. The parade route will begin at the corner of Arizona and Granite, proceeding West on Granite to Montana, South on Montana to Park St., and then finally East on Park St. towards Arizona where the parade will finish. A variety of food vendors will be located on Main Street between Broadway and Park Streets. To register for the parade, nominate Grand Marshal or sign up to be a food vendor, click here: https://butteamericafoundation.org St Patrick's Day Color Run https://runsignup.com/.../Butte/StPatricksDayButteColorRun The St. Patrick’s Day Color Run is a healthy, alternative activity option to youth, families, and the community to participate in on St. Patrick’s Day. The event will be held at Stodden Park, consisting of a short 1-mile course (fun run), and a separate 5K course within the park. You can run, walk or skip along the course laps as you are adorned with brilliantly colored powder from a number of “color stations” along the way. Collaboration with the Spirit of Columbia Carousel will take place, music, and activities hosted by students and other community organizations will also be present. Late registration and packet pick up will begin at 12:00 PM. Races will commence at 3:00 PM. All children 16 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Sign up by February 24 to be guaranteed a shirt. This venue is a substance free facility and event. *****Packet Pickup will be held Thursday March 14 from Noon-6:00 PM @ the Butte Plaza Mall *****If you are unable to make this day, packets can be picked up starting at 12:00 PM at the Event. Please note it is important to get your materials at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the race, and no later. We want to do our best to limit chaos and congestion. St Patrick's Day Kids Zone Join us on Sunday March 17th at The Abode for Free Kid Zone Activities: Jump rope, skip it, sidewalk chalk, hopscotch, bean bag toss & more! A safe place for kids to play before & after the parade while the parents have their fun nearby 1st Annual Walkerville St Patty's Day Market Join us for a family friendly celebration of St Pattys Day at the location of the future Walkerville Grocery Store! Featuring many local Butte craftsmen and artisans, a portion of the proceeds generated from this event will go to kickstart the future grocery store and cement it as a gathering place for the Uptown community!

  • Barrett Hospital & HealthCare Announces Partnership With Bridger Orthopedic

    Dillon, Montana, March 14, 2024 – Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Bridger Orthopedic, Southwest Montana’s most comprehensive and renowned orthopedic practice, based in Bozeman. This collaborative effort brings an additional skilled orthopedic surgeon to live and work in Dillon. The partnership between Barrett Hospital & HealthCare and Bridger Orthopedic signifies a substantial milestone in improving access to specialized orthopedic services for residents of Dillon and the surrounding regions. The addition of a highly skilled and experienced orthopedic surgeon to serve Dillon and the surrounding regions enables Barrett Hospital & HealthCare to continue to demonstrate its commitment to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the community. This strategic alliance ensures that patients will have access to more orthopedic treatments, including joint replacements, sports medicine care, fracture care, and additional highly specialized orthopedic treatments. "Bridger Orthopedic is a leader in orthopedic services in Southwest Montana. We are excited to begin our partnership with them and bring even more specialized care to our community," said Taylor Rose, Chief Executive Officer at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare. "By bringing an additional high quality orthopedic surgeon to Dillon, we can continue to build our team providing first-class care to our community members, right here in their hometown. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to prioritize our patients' needs, reduce travel, and enhance their healthcare experience." After a national search, Barrett Hospital & HealthCare and Bridger Orthopedic have selected Dr. Gregg W. Schellack, DO, a well-respected orthopedic surgeon, and a specialist in the field, to serve in this role. Dr. Schellack will be joining the orthopedic team, stepping in as Dr. Dan Downey, MD, a revered member of Barrett Hospital & HealthCare’s surgical staff, enters a well-deserved retirement. Dr. Schellack, a Dillon native, will be returning to the community and joining Barrett Hospital & HealthCare to provide skilled care beginning on April 1st 2024. Driven by a passion for delivering personalized treatment plans, Dr. Schellack will work closely with patients to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve their quality of life. “I’m excited that I will be returning to my roots in Dillon, a place that instilled in me the values of community and compassion, to continue my journey in medicine,” said Dr. Gregg W. Schellack, DO. “Now, with years of specialized training and experience, I am eager to give back to the town that gave me so much. My goal is to provide comprehensive, patient-centered orthopedic care by utilizing the latest techniques and technologies improving the quality of life for my patients. It is a privilege to serve the community that has shaped me, and to contribute to its well-being as both a healthcare provider and a proud alumnus of Dillon.” The partnership between Barrett Hospital & HealthCare and Bridger Orthopedic ensures that Dillon and the surrounding area residents will have access to more orthopedic procedures and a range of non-surgical and surgical treatment options. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, which marks a pivotal step in our commitment to expand quality orthopedic care in the Dillon and the surrounding communities,” said Michael Johns, Chief Executive Officer at Bridger Orthopedic. “This collaboration is a testament to our shared goal of ensuring that the highest standards of orthopedic treatment are accessible to all, regardless of their geographical location. We believe that everyone deserves the best possible care close to home, and we are proud to be part of a team that is making this a reality for those living in and around the Dillon area.” For more information about orthopedic services at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Schellack please visit www.barretthospital.org or call 406-683-3060.

  • UMW Invites Community To “Geology and History on the Silver Bow Creek Greenway Trail” Presentation By Richard Gibson

    As part of the University of Montana Western’s “On the Rocks” guest lecture series hosted by the Environmental Sciences Department, please join us on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 3:45 pm in Block Hall room 311 on the UMW campus for a special presentation by Richard I. Gibson titled “Geology and History on the Silver Bow Creek Greenway Trail.” A geologist, historian, and tour guide based in Butte, America, Gibson has published extensively on a variety of disciplines, including “Lost Butte, Montana”, “What Things Are Made Of”, and an upcoming publication on the Greenway Trail. He is a founding member of the Tobacco Root Geological Society and is also an expert on the mineralogy of kidney stones. Gibson has served in a variety of organizations, including the Butte Historic Preservation Commission, as Education Director at the World Museum of Mining, and as the secretary of Butte Citizens for Preservation and Revitalization. He also has made lasting contributions to the Mai Wah Chinese Museum and Society and wrote the guide to the Mai Wah Archaeological Dig Exhibit. Gibson has also been an editor and author of several historical and architectural Butte guidebooks and newspaper columns. For more information about the “On the Rocks” lecture series, please contact Montana Western Regents Professor of Geology, Dr. Rob Thomas: rob.thomas@umwestern.edu or 406-683-7615.

  • BCHS Academic Olympic Team Places First At Southwest Montana Championship

    Team A of Sean, Laura, Izzy, Hunter, and Athan went undefeated and won 1st place - beating Missoula Sentinel in the championship!  They have a big traveling trophy and plaque to show for it - along with gifts coming from the MSU Bookstore! Team B of Olivette, Zoe, Danner, Brekken and Lilla took one early loss but then battled back through many matches to take 6th place - losing by just a few points. Team C of Emma, Darrell, Clara, and Amelia (had to run short one player) but they were one of the only 'C' teams to stay in the tournament as long as they did - losing to Manhattan and then to our own B team.  They were a younger team and not as experienced with competition but really did an outstanding job! It was great to see all these students equally contributing to the success of the day! We brought home multiple written test awards also: Olivette - 4th top score senior and 4th top overall (out of about 200 students) Laura - 5th top senior and 5th overall Zoe- 6th senior and 7th overall Brekken - 2nd Sophomore and 9th overall Hunter- 3rd Sophomore and 11th overall Izzy - 5th Sophomore and 13th overall-tie with Amelia Amelia - 2nd  Freshman  and 13th overall- tie with Izzy Athan - 5th Freshman We had 9 people who scored in the top 20: Olivette, Laura, Zoe, Brekken, Hunter, Amelia, Izzy, Sean and Danner And finally - I was so impressed when, after all the awards were handed out, the coordinators of the tournament awarded 'Mr. Congeniality' to our very own Sean Regan!  They said that every judge commented on how polite he was to everyone - quick to give thanks and shake everyone's hands, etc. Our kids truly represented BCHS with good character, great respect and excellence!  Thank you for the role you all play in making this possible! Thank you Janet Gentry for the heads up on this accomplishment and congratulations to the BCHS Academic Olympic Teams.

  • Butte High School Receives Threats Leading To Evacuation Of School And Sending Students Home (Updated)

    From an email sent from BHS to parents today March 14 at 9:40 A.M. Butte High School has been notified of a threat to kill teachers and students at BHS using an automatic rifle.  We are currently investigating the threat and out of an abundance of caution we are evacuating the building and sending all students home for the remainder of the day.  Buses will be available to provide transportation to students who regularly ride the bus. Parent teacher conferences scheduled tonight  will also be canceled.  As soon as we get more information regarding the threat we will update you on the school schedule for tomorrow. Update 03/14/2024 2:28 P.M. The Butte School District received notification from the Butte Police Department that Butte High School was never the target of this morning's threat. In their investigation they learned that the threat was generated from out of state and was meant to target a high school in Washington. The person who was responsible for generating and posting the threat has been apprehended and taken into custody. Butte High and other Butte School District schools were never a target of this threat. Based on this information, Butte High and all other schools will follow the regular school schedule for Friday March 15, 2024. I want to personally thank all of the Butte High students, staff, parents and the Butte Police Department for their exemplary performance in handling the situation. Please know that at all times the safety of the students and staff were at the forefront of each decision that was made.

  • FFA Degree Recipients

    This year's State FFA Degree recipients: Samantha Anderson Andrew Egan William Ellis Clinton Ford Faye Holland Katie Johnson Bridger Kemph Kaydyn Nelson Clancy Setzer Conrad results: Vet Science - 1st place team - Katie Johnson (2nd individual), Savanna Freitas (9th individual), Taylor Yecny (10th individual), Eli Johnson, Molli Miner, Winona Wagoner, Kenndyl Meine, Bridget Lovaas Ag Mechanics - 11th place team - Porter Hopman, Chase Brown, Will Ellis, Clinton Ford, Asher Burch, Athan Graham, Morgan Heiland, Cole Webster Agronomy - didn't have a full team due to kids missing for tournaments, both Brekken Venn and Faye Holland placed in the top 40 individually.

  • Preliminary Proposals For 2025-2026 Fishing Regulations Available For Review

    HELENA – If you’re interested in providing input on how Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is crafting fishing regulations for the next two years, now is your chance. FWP is taking public comment and asking for ideas on initial proposals for the 2025-2026 Fishing Regulations. The initial 64 proposals are online now and available for review and comment. Just go to  fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/public-comment-opportunities/fishing-regulations. FWP is also looking for ideas for regulation changes that aren’t captured in these initial proposals. To answer questions and get feedback on fishing regulations, FWP is hosting public meetings around the state. Staff will use the input to refine the regulation proposals that will go before the Fish and Wildlife Commission in October. The fishing regulations proposals that will be considered by commission will be available for public comment in August. The commission will adopt, amend or reject the proposals at its October meeting. Montana’s fishing regulations are split into three districts – west, central and east. Each district has standard regulations. Many of the proposals remove exceptions to district standards that are no longer biologically relevant. Others are intended to increase fishing opportunity, enhance conservation efforts for some species, reduce confusion or improve enforceability. All regulation changes are based on criteria or objectives outlined in the Statewide Fisheries Management Plan. Specific statewide proposals include improving definitions of different types of hooks and adjusting regulations for cleaning and transporting fish. In the Western Fishing District, proposals include adjusting northern pike possession limits, adjusting bag limits on the Blackfoot River and many tributaries, implementing gear restrictions on the Kootenai River below Libby Dam, and removing a lake trout slot limit on Whitefish Lake. In the Central Fishing District, proposals include allowing spearing for northern pike on Hauser and Holter reservoirs, removing spearing for burbot at Tiber Reservoir and Lake Frances, removing exceptions for walleye in the Missouri River from Toston to Canyon Ferry and reducing walleye bag limits from Holter Dam to Black Eagle Dam. For the Eastern Fishing District, proposals include clarification of paddlefish regulations because of the new fish bypass channel at Intake, the addition of a tag for paddlefish snagging opportunities in the Missouri River below Fort Peck Dam, regulations to conserve shortnose gar, and conservative crappie limits on Tongue River Reservoir. Fishing regulations are now under a process like hunting regulations, going through a comprehensive public review every two years. Fishing regulations are printed during odd numbered years. The meeting schedule is as follows: Region 1: March 19, 6 p.m., Kalispell, 490 North Meridian Road Region 2: April 10, 6:30 p.m., Missoula, 201 Spurgin Road Region 3: March 28, 6 p.m., Bozeman, 1400 South 19th St. Region 4: April 4, 6 p.m., Great Falls, 4600 Giant Springs Road Region 5: March 14, 6:30 p.m., Billings, 2300 Lake Elmo Drive Region 6: March 13, 6 p.m., Glasgow, 1 Airport Road Region 7: March 21, 6:30 p.m., Miles City, 352 I-94 Business Loop FWP will be collecting comments through April 26. The department will also host at least one virtual meeting during this comment period.

  • Mussel-Fouled Boat Intercepted At Anaconda Inspection Station

    HELENA – Montana’s first mussel-fouled watercraft of the year was intercepted at the Anaconda watercraft inspection station on March 10. The pontoon boat was recently purchased used in North Dakota and was travelling along Interstate 90 west toward Ephrata, Wash. Mussels were found along the hull throughout the lifting strakes as well as the transom and gimbal areas. Inspectors performed a full decontamination on site, and the boat was locked to the trailer. Previous launch information was unknown, but the new owner believed it had not been in the water since last summer. All watercraft (motorized and non-motorized) coming into Montana from out of state must be inspected. Watercraft must be drained of all water before transporting. Watercraft inspection stations are Montana’s first line of defense to prevent the movement of aquatic invasive species (AIS) which can have devastating impacts on Montana waterways. Boaters must stop at all watercraft inspections stations they encounter. Learn more at fwp.mt.gov/conservation/aquatic-invasive-species or call the FWP Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.

  • Community Invited To Japanese Festival In Western Montana Events March 22-23

    The University of Montana Western and the Dillon Public Library would like to invite the community to celebrate the Second Annual Japanese Festival in Western Montana with a series of events to be held March 22 and 23, 2024. Events and activities for all ages will take place throughout the city of Dillon including the University of Montana Western, Dillon Public Library, and many local businesses. This year, even more exciting events and workshops have been added. Nao Fukumoto, Japan Outreach Initiative (JOI) Coordinator, who came to Dillon last August, will help bring this event to life! Visit tinyurl.com/JFWM2024 to view the complete schedule of events. Festival event topics will include: Welcome Activities Japanese Doll, Cultural Display, and Crafts Table Furoshiki Workshop (Japanese Cloth Wrapping Techniques) Kamishibai (Traditional Japanese Storytelling) Sushi Sampling Shinobue Workshop (Japanese Flute) Saito Family and Japanese History Exhibit Soran Bushi Dance Performance Taiko Workshop (Japanese Drum) Family Movie Night- Spirited Away Sake Tasting Samurai Undressed Demonstration Sado (Tea Ceremony) Aikido Workshop (Japanese Martial Art) Japanese Jewelry Making Ikebana Workshop (Japanese Flower Arrangement ) Bonsai Demonstration Kumamoto Sister State Presentation Work in Japan with the JET Program Calligraphy, Japanese Toys, and Games Japanese Art Exhibit Miya Hannan Artist Presentation & Closing Reception: “Deep Echoes” Thank you to the generous sponsors and contributors who have helped make this event possible. For more information, please call 406-683-4544. Event passports will be available for pickup starting March 18 at the Dillon Public Library.

  • Ashley Willett And Chris Mehring Named As Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award Recipients

    The University of Montana Western will honor two outstanding community members, Ashley Willett and Chris Mehring, with the 2024 Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award on Wednesday, April 10, 2024, for their extraordinary service to UMW and the Dillon Community. The awards dinner and recognition ceremony will begin at 5:30 p.m. in the Lewis and Clark Room in Mathews Hall on the UMW campus. Dr. Jane Helm Maddock was a Professor of English at the University of Montana Western for 17 years and was recognized as Professor Emeritus of English upon her retirement by the Board of Regents of the Montana University System. During her time at UMW, she established the Helm Honors Scholarship and the Helm Memorial Scholarship in memory of her parents. The service award is named in her honor and memory and presented to those who have performed extraordinary service to the campus and community. Montana Western will also recognize four inspiring UMW students for their high levels of civic and volunteer engagement. Tanner Harrell will be recognized for the Montana Athletes in Service award, Gracie Stanton will be recognized for receiving the Newman Civic Fellowship Award, and Alexis Cannon and Ahna Fox will each receive the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Student Service Award. To purchase tickets to the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Awards Dinner, please contact the Foundation and Alumni Office by calling 406-683-7306 by April 3, 2024. Tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for Montana Western students and include drinks, dinner, and dessert. Ashley K. Willett Ashley Willett grew up on a ranch north of Dillon and graduated from Beaverhead County High School in 2004. She continued her education at the University of Montana Western on a golf scholarship. In addition to being a student-athlete, Ashley also worked for her uncle Casey Keltz at the Lion’s Den and embarked on a career at Edward Jones. In 2007, Ashley earned a BS in Business Administration. Following graduation, Ashley married Phil Willett and they have one daughter, Gabby. Although they briefly resided in Bozeman, Ashley and her family found themselves drawn back to Dillon. In 2014, Ashley transitioned into the field of health insurance and presently serves as the Benefits Producer at Mountainview Insurance. Ashley has become a pillar of the Dillon community, contributing her time, skills, and dedication to various community initiatives and organizations. Over the years, Ashley and her family have also served as a host family for Montana Western student-athletes. Ashley’s commitment to community engagement is evident through her active involvement in various organizations and initiatives. As a member of the Chapter AD PEO, she dedicated four years of service as president. Currently, she serves on the committees for the Festival of Trees and the UMW Booster Bash. Her passion for golf led her to join the Dillon Junior Golf Board and the Beaverhead Golf Course Ladies Association Board. In addition to her roles in golf-related organizations, Ashley also contributes her time as a Dillon Junior Golf instructor, serves on the Beaverhead Chamber board, and continues to lend her support to Shine Studio. She was an active member of the Dillon Jaycee Auxiliary and served on the Southwest Montana Family Y Board. When not working or volunteering, Ashley finds joy in spending quality time with her family and attending Gabby’s dance and sporting events. Ashley’s passion for Montana Western, and the Dillon community is what makes her a deserving candidate of the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award. Christopher J. Mehring Chris Mehring was born and spent much of his childhood in Butte, Montana. He attended Butte Central until his sophomore year of high school before transferring to Twin Bridges where he ultimately graduated. After graduation, Chris attended Western Montana College where he received a degree in Secondary Education Business and Physical Education in 1988. Chris settled in Dillon and embarked on a rewarding career with R.E. Miller & Sons. In 1988, Chris married the love of his life, Wendy. Together, they welcomed two children, Alyssa and Darrin, who became the joy of Chris’s life. However, being a grandpa to Parker, Paislee, and Payton was truly the highlight of his days. Chris took great pride in being a resident of Beaverhead County and demonstrated his love for the community through volunteering. He dedicated his time to various sports activities, including coaching little league baseball and flag football. One of his favorite pastimes on Saturdays was serving as the ball boy for Montana Western Bulldog Football. Chris also played a significant role in nearly every sports field in Dillon. With the support of numerous friends, coworkers, and R.E. Miller & Sons, he spearheaded efforts to donate time, dirt and equipment for the construction and renovation of these fields. When the community raised funds for the updated Jaycee Park, Chris and many R.E. Miller employees pitched in. With the support of his company and friends, Chris was able to give back to Dillon in various ways. He took pride in every project and always ensured perfection. These efforts are just a fraction of the many ways he supported any program or person in need. Chris’s commitment to the community never wavered. He served on the City of Dillon planning board and the Beaverhead Golf Course board. He was also recognized as Dillon Jaycee’s Outstanding Young Man of the Year. With his passion for sports, Chris umpired little league games, played city league softball, and basketball, participated in flag football, and was deeply involved in Dillon Beaver football and Cubs baseball. His impact was profound in so many ways and resonated deeply in the Dillon community. We are grateful for the opportunity to recognize his legacy and honored to present Chris and his family with the Dr. Jane Helm Maddock Service Award.

  • 2023-24 SW A Girls & Boys Basketball All-Conference / All-State

    2023-24 SW A Girls Basketball All-Conference Name Year School Team 1 Mason Quinn 10 Frenchtown 1st Team All-Conference / All-State / MVP 2 Sydney Petersen 12 Dillon 1st Team All-Conference / All-State 3 Madison Kaufman 12 Frenchtown 1st Team All-Conference / All-State 4 Kenleigh Graham 11 Dillon 1st Team All-Conference / All-State 5 Sadie Smith 12 Frenchtown 1st Team All-Conference / All-State 6 Halle Fitzgerald 12 Dillon 2nd Team All-Conference 7 Taylor McCarthy 12 Hamilton 2nd Team All-Conference 8 Heather Haskins 11 Frenchtown 2nd Team All-Conference 9 Ashlynn McKern 10 Hamilton 2nd Team All-Conference 10 Leila Racicot-Stennerson 12 Dillon 2nd Team All-Conference 11 Shilo McLain Lampi 12 Stevensville Honorable Mention 12 Ella Varner 10 Corvallis Honorable Mention 13 Sage Tash 10 Dillon Honorable Mention 14 Lavana Wetzel 12 Hamilton Honorable Mention 15 Mollie Drew 12 Butte Central Honorable Mention 16 Ericka Jessop 12 Corvallis Honorable Mention SOUTHWEST “A” ALL-CONFERENCE NAME YEAR TEAM SCHOOL 1ST TEAM: 1. Canaan Magness 10 Co-MVP- 1st Team All-State Hamilton 2. Eli Quinn- 12 Co-MVP 1st Team All-State Frenchtown 3. Owen McPartland 11 1st Team All-State Butte Central 4. Carter Curnow 11 1st team All-State Dillon 5. Jack Keeley 12 1st Team All-State Butte Central 2nd TEAM: 6. Kyler Engellent 11 2nd Team All-Conference Dillon 7. Tyler Jette 11 2nd Team All-Conference Hamilton 8. Hank Smith 09 2nd Team All-Conference Frenchtown 9. Ryan Hutchison 12 2nd Team All-Conference Corvallis 10. Max Davis 12 2nd Team All-Conference Dillon HM TEAM: 11. Josh Sutton 09 Honorable Mention Butte Central 12. Derek Criddle 12 Honorable Mention Corvallis 13. Cole Dickemore 12 Honorable Mention Hamilton 14. Jackson Jessop 12 Honorable Mention Hamilton 15. Tristan Koerner 12 Honorable Mention Hamilton 16. Ryan Peoples 10 Honorable Mention Butte Central

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