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Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information LEXINGTON, Ky. –  The American Volleyball Coaches' Association (AVCA) announced the All-Region teams for each level of the NCAA, NAIA, and junior college members, where the Montana Western volleyball program saw two players named to the awards list. Jazi Smith  was named an AVCA All-Region First Team for her contributions this season. Smith, a 5-11 junior outside hitter from Mossyrock, Wash., was also selected first team all-conference after she led the Bulldogs with 469 kills on the season and 3.35 kills per set. Smith caps off a historic career becoming UMW's career kills leader with a record 1164 total. She also holds the single season kills record with 469 in a single season after this year. Smith also was a force on defense, totaling 574 digs in the back row and totaling 63 blocks this season. Jordan Olson  was named an AVCA All-Region Honorable Mention for her contributions this season. Olson, a 6-1 junior opposite hitter from Billings, Mont., was also selected first team all-conference after she totaled 358 kills on the season and 2.20 kills per set. She also was impressive on the block this season, totaling 101 blocks for UMW. To view every NAIA All-Region Team and individual award winners, click  HERE .

By Mel Rice, Public Relations The Beaverhead County Search and Rescue held its monthly meeting on Wednesday, December 4th.  Commander Kolby Malesich called the meeting to order at 7:10 PM.  Roll was called with 27 members in attendance, treasurer’s report was giving, and minutes of the last meeting were approved.  First order of business was the discussion of training opportunities coming up for the unit.  On Saturday, December 7, there was another rope training that took on a new twist.  Most training that we do is completed during daylight hours.  However, most of our recoveries, rescues, etc., happen in the dark.  So, Steve Mock put together a training exercise that took place in the dark of night.   Other training opportunities that are being set up by training officer Adam Norlander will include basic snowmobile riding and safety, First Aid, CPR which is a requirement for membership, and avalanche training, provided we get some snow.  The SAR unit has had 4 call outs that were critiqued by individuals who participated in each incident.  The call outs required responses on Gibbons Pass road, Medicine Lodge, Everson Creek, and Gallagher Mountain.  The next order of business was the “39th Annual Stan Shafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby to be held on January 19th, 2025.  We received a report that Clark Canyon was completely iced over as of Wednesday, December 4.   The derby will have all the same payouts as in the past along with 50/50 tickets being sold on the ice the day of the derby.  Your can purchase your tickets from SAR members, various merchants around town, or at the dam on derby day.  Tickets make great stocking stuffers during this Christmas season.  So, get those poles out, augers sharpened, and let’s get ready for some fun… During the December meeting, nominations opened for next year’s officers. At the January meeting more nominations can be accepted and the election of officers will take place.  Offices include commander, vice commander, secretary, treasurer, communications, equipment, public relations, training, and 3 board members at large.    In the past month there have been 3 probationary members accepted to full membership status.  These three individuals are: Keri Carson, Aaron Beard, Lance Hopman.   We also had two individuals retire from the organization after many years of service and they are: Parke Scott and Clint Rouse.   Please take the time to thank these individuals for their dedicated service.  “In the Business of Saving Lives”, your Beaverhead Search and Rescue.

DILLON — On Friday night, while many were gearing up for the annual Christmas Stroll, disaster struck as alarm bells rang out, signaling a fire emergency. The Dillon Volunteer Fire Department quickly responded to reports of a trailer fire off North Railroad Street. Despite their best efforts, the trailer was deemed a total loss. The fire has left Sabrina and Timothy Nichols without their possessions, clothing, medical supplies, and a home. The community's immediate response has been heartwarming, as family and friends turned to social media, reaching out for assistance just a day after the fire. In response, residents have mobilized to collect donations, asking for items to help the Nichols family get back on their feet. Community members are encouraged to donate clothing, particularly men’s 2XL shirts, colostomy supplies, fragrance-free laundry supplies, women’s clothing sizes up to 5XL, and women’s size 10 wide shoes. They are also in need of a bi-pap machine. Big Sky Cinema has taken the initiative to serve as a drop-off location for donations after 3:30 PM. In addition to their immediate needs, the Nichols family is faced with the challenge of removing the wreckage of their old trailer from the rented lot. For those who wish to contribute financially, the family can be supported through Venmo at Sabrina-Nichols-1 (last four digits of phone number: 0127) and Cash App at $sabrinanich24.

December 7, 2024 | Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information Cover Photo Tim Tushla SIOUX CITY, Iowa –  The no. 16 seeded Montana Western women's volleyball team (25-10) closed a historic 2024 season this afternoon with a 3-1 loss to the no. 8 seeded Corban University (Ore.) in the NAIA Women's Volleyball National Championship quarterfinal matchup. After winning the opening set 26-24, the Bulldogs fell in three straight sets by scores of 25-20, 25-16, and 25-22. How It Happened The opening set was a contested match from the start, with both teams trading points in a neck-and-neck battle that resulted in 13 ties. The deadlock persisted until 14-all, when a kill by Emma Bischoff for Corban ignited a 7-3 scoring run. However, Montana Western stayed within striking distance, eventually tying the score at 22 thanks to a service ace by Kelsey Goddard . The back-and-forth power struggle continued, with ties at 23 and 24, before UMW clinched the set 26-24 with a kill from Peyton Vogl and a Warriors attack error. Corban opened the following set with the initial lead. The Bulldogs then tied things up at nine apiece following a kill from Jazi Smith , but a four-point run for the Warriors gave them enough space to keep the Bulldogs out at an arm's reach. Despite going down 24-16, the Bulldogs made a last-ditch effort and benefitted from a pair of kills from Jordan Olson to go on a 4-0 run before eventually falling to the Warriors 25-20. Despite the late set magic in the second frame, the Bulldogs struggled get it into drive in the third set. They hit a mere -0.53 in the set while totaling an unfortunate 11 hitting error, with nine coming in the first 14 points of the set. Set four was just as intense as the opener, featuring 10 ties and seven lead changes. Neither team managed to pull ahead by more than four points throughout the set. The Warriors broke the deadlock at 14-all with a decisive 6-2 scoring run, ultimately sealing the match with a 25-22 victory in set four. Notables UMW combined to hit .162 in the game, compared to CU's .238 across the match. Corban's strong offensive play and solid defense at the net (16 total blocks, 14 assisted) proved to be the difference in the match. Olson led the Bulldogs in today's matchup with 13 kills on a .267 hitting percentage. Smith also had a strong performance with 11 kills of her own, as well as 15 digs in the back row. Taylor Petersen directed the offense with 17 assists and Goddard added 22 digs.  Final Notes The Bulldogs cap their season with an overall record of 25-10, playing in 21 games against teams that were either ranked or receiving votes. Six Bulldogs earned their way into the record books following this season. Smith caps off a historic career becoming UMW's career kills leader with a record 1164 total. She also holds the single season kills record with 469 in a single season. Kaylee Fritz broke the career service aces record as she caps her impressive career. She now leads in the record books with 104 service aces. Danyel Martin broke the career blocks record last season for UMW and added 140 blocks this season to her total. She leads the record book now with 419 total. Goddard broke both the career digs record and the single season digs record this season as she ends her career at Montana Western. She now leads both with a career total of 2321 and a single season record total of 699 this season. Petersen broke the single season service aces record during the upset win over No. 1 Northwestern. She holds the top spot with a total of 42 service aces. Vogl is now the single season block leader after she totaled 152 blocks this season.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. –  The no. 4 ranked Montana Western football team (10-2) capped the season this afternoon with a 31-24 loss to the no. 6 ranked Morningside University (12-1) after a season that saw the Bulldogs win the outright Frontier Conference championship and make the NAIA FCS Quarterfinals. After leading 24-10 at the half, the Bulldogs were held scoreless in the second half as the Mustangs racked up 21 unanswered points in to close out the game on top. How It Happened After forcing the Mustangs to punt on their opening drive, the Bulldogs were quick to get on the board. Michael Palandri hit Dylan Shipley in stride for a 58-yard reception that put the Bulldogs on the Morningside 1-yard line. Jake Humphrey would finish the job on the following play to put Western up 7-0 early in the game. As Morningside began to pick up steam on the following drive, UMW's James Ochs picked off Morningside's quarterback Zack Chevalier to fuel a quick scoring drive. Palandri went on to hit Eli Nourse from 32-yards out to send Western into the second quarter up 14-0. Shortly after the start of the second quarter, Morningside's kicker Trevor Paulsen put it through the uprights to put the Mustangs on the board at 14-3. The Bulldogs then used 15 plays to go 64 yards down the field and eat up eight minutes off the clock to score on a 24-yard field goal from John Mears . They would then go up 17-3 with four minutes to play in the first half. Morningside answered on the following drive with their first touchdown of the game, but the Mustangs left just shy of two minutes on the clock for the Bulldogs. UMW would utilize the time left with a quick one-minute drive to score on a rush from Nourse and take a 24-10 lead into the half.   Following a fumble that gave the Mustangs excellent field position after Western's opening drive of the second half, Morningside needed just three plays to score, narrowing the gap to 24-17 against the Bulldogs. Despite their best efforts, the Bulldog offense was unable to piece together a scoring drive for the remainder of the game. Morningside would go on to score twice more to take the lead and finish on top 31-24. Notables Today's loss marks the first loss for the Bulldogs at home this season. Both teams struggled on the ground, with the two teams combining for just 151 rushing yards in the game. Western led with 85 yards on the ground. Palandri threw for 368 passing yards and a touchdown. He went 27-41 in the game and was sacked four times. Nourse led the Bulldogs in the air, totaling 96 yards through the air and recording a touchdown. He also added a touchdown on the ground in the game. Aiden Prado and Keegen Muffich led the Bulldog defense with seven tackles apiece. Prado totaled seven solo tackles and a pair of pass breakups. Muffich had three solo tackles and a sack for a loss of eight yards. Season Recap The Bulldogs cap their season with an overall record of 10-2 and their first season in their new home at Bulldog Stadium. Palandri completed 68.26% of his passes this season, surpassing the previous record of 64.9% set by Jason Truman in 1995. He also broke Truman's single-season passing yards record from 1994, eclipsing the former mark of 3,503 yards with an impressive 3,670-yard total. Additionally, Palandri amassed 3,972 total offensive yards and threw 34 touchdown passes, shattering Truman's 1994 records of 3,758 total yards and 33 passing touchdowns. Nourse broke his own single season record for receiving yards of 1,186 in today's game, totaling 1,205 yards this season. As a team, the Bulldogs broke the total offense in a season record set in 2021 at 5,399 yards. They totaled 5,773 yards of offense this season after today's game. They also broke the record for passing yards in a season with a previous record set in 1994 at 3,535 and total points scored that was set in 2021. They totaled 3,735 passing yards this season and totaled 498 points this season.

Update: Fire was reported out at 7:27 P.M. and all units are heading back to the Fire Hall. Dillon, MT On Friday late afternoon, first responders rushed to the scene of a fire at a trailer on Railroad Street. When they arrived, the occupants had successfully escaped the flames but reported that two dogs remained inside the burning structure. Witnesses noted that the trailer was fully engulfed in flames, prompting nearby residents to take action by using hoses to douse the fire from their properties. Firefighters arrived shortly after and immediately began battling the blaze, working diligently to contain it to the single trailer. Despite their efforts, the trailer has been declared a complete loss. The emotional toll on the occupants is significant, especially regarding the pets left inside. This is a developing story, and we will provide further updates as more information becomes available.

BOZEMAN – Hunter harvest rates in southwestern Montana were mixed during the general deer and elk hunting season, according to data gathered by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologists. Mild weather during much of the general season made it challenging for hunters to find game at some lower elevations. The general season was held over five weeks and six weekends from Oct. 26 through Dec. 1. During that time, FWP staff operated game check stations at various times and locations in southwest Montana, including stations in Alder, Cameron, Canyon Ferry, Divide, Gallatin Canyon, Silver City and Toston. Collectively, they met with 6,966 hunters who harvested 48 white-tailed deer, 168 mule deer and 406 elk. Biologists use check stations to collect data on hunter participation and success, as well as the species, sex and age class of the animals harvested. Check station data captures a portion of hunting activity on weekends in specific areas. Hunter numbers and harvest rates can be influenced by weather, changes in hunting regulations from one season to another, and other factors. Biologists also rely on information collected through hunter harvest phone surveys each year. The Alder check station was open on the first, third and sixth weekends of the general season. Over those three weekends, wildlife staff met with 812 hunters who collectively harvested 16 white-tailed deer, 35 mule deer and 88 elk. The hunter harvest rate for the final weekend was average at 21 percent, an increase from the 9.7-percent harvest rate over opening weekend. Biologists operated a check station at Canyon Ferry on the first and final weekends of the general season. They met with 338 hunters who harvested 6 white-tailed deer, 11 mule deer and 16 elk. Hunter harvest was 3.9 percent on opening weekend and 8.3 percent on the final weekend. The Cameron check station was open each weekend during the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 2,935 hunters who harvested 14 white-tailed deer, 60 mule deer and 192 elk over the six weekends. Hunter harvest rates ranged from 6.5 percent on Nov. 2-3 to 10.6 percent on Nov. 23-24. Overall harvest numbers were average for elk, above average for mule deer and below average for white-tailed deer. Snow levels were high enough to make high-country travel difficult for hunters, but not enough to concentrate elk on winter ranges. This, combined with above-average numbers of hunters, meant that individual hunter harvest rates in this area were below the average range.   The Divide check station was also open each weekend during the general season. Biologists there met with 1,406 hunters who harvested six white-tailed deer, 43 mule deer and 63 elk over the six weekends. Hunter harvest rates ranged from 6.4 percent on Nov. 16-17 to 13.4 percent over the previous weekend. This area also saw relatively mild temperatures and snowfall, with minimal elk movement during the general season. The overall hunter harvest rate at this station was 8.7 percent this year, up from 7.8 percent in 2023 but still below the 10-year average of 9.3 percent. The Gallatin check station operated during the first, second and sixth weekends of the general season. Wildlife staff there met with 500 hunters who harvested one white-tailed deer, five mule deer and 20 elk. Hunter harvest rates ranged from 4.4 percent over opening weekend to 6.5 percent the following weekend. Overall, this season had average numbers of hunters and mule deer harvested and below-average numbers of elk harvested. The Silver City check station operated on opening and closing weekends of the general season, with hunter harvest rates of 4.4 and 3 percent, respectively. Staff met with 902 hunters who harvested one white-tailed deer, eight mule deer and 27 elk over the two weekends. The Toston check station was open on Nov. 9, which brought 73 hunters and a harvest rate of 8.3 percent. Those hunters harvested six mule deer.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information SIOUX CITY, Iowa. –  The No. 16 seeded Montana Western women's volleyball team (25-9) earned an upset win over Northwestern (Iowa) in this NAIA Women's Volleyball National Championship pool play match to advance out of pool play for the first time in school history. "We knew today was going to be a really tough match with Northwestern playing really well right now, but we felt really confident in our matchup with them," Head Coach  Katie Lovett  said. The No. 1 seeded Raiders entered the matchup with an overall record of 32-0, falling to the Bulldogs for their first loss of the season in three sets to one by scores of 25-19, 17-25, 25-19, and 25-20. "We minimized our unforced errors and capitalized on offensive opportunities. I was really impressed with out defense in blocking and backcourt dialing in to shut down our offense. I am incredibly proud of this team and what they have been able to accomplish so far," Lovett continued. How It Happened A pair of kills from Jazi Smith and Olivia Rosborough got Western rolling to an 11-6 lead in the opening set of the game. Despite the Raiders comeback led by Savonne Sterk, the Bulldogs pressed on and utilized a 4-0 scoring run that saw Peyton Vogl tally a pair of kills to take a 19-12 lead. The Bulldogs took the opening set 25-19 after posting an impressive .438 hitting percentage. In the second set, Montana Western opened the scoring but Northwestern quickly responded with a kill from Zavyr Metzger to level the game. Western made a late push, narrowing the score to 19-14 through a series of well-executed blocks, but the Raiders held firm and secured the set with a decisive kill by outside hitter Jazlin Douma to take a 25-17 victory over the Bulldogs. Smith fueled a set three opening 6-0 run after she recorded a pair of kills to swing momentum back in favor of the red and black. Jordan Olson broke a short NWU run with a kill from the right side to once again send the Bulldogs into a 4-0 scoring run that pushed them out 15-9. They remained in the driver's seat for the remainder of the set and won 25-19 to take a 2-1 lead. Montana Western once again took control of the game early on, taking a 5-2 lead behind another kills from Smith. Northwestern managed to close the gap to 10-7 on a service error, but Montana Western maintained their lead, extending it to 18-11 following a kill by Dani Brown . Up 20-12, the Raiders made a late push and forced Western to use both timeouts through a 6-0 scoring run that brought the game back within two. A block from Vogl and Rosborough broke the run and Western outscored the Raiders 5-2 to cap the set 25-20. Notables The Bulldogs had a strong offensive performance, with Smith leading the team with 19 kills and Martin adding 10 kills. Smith also added a team high of 21 digs. Taylor Petersen had 22 assists and Madisyn Frazier contributed 16 digs in her solid defensive showing in the back row. UMW outblocked NWC by 18 total blocks (UWM 32 assisted; 12 assisted, 2 solo NWC). Olson and Martin led the Bulldog's defensive effort at the net with nine assisted blocks apiece.  The Bulldogs combined to hit .219 in the game and recorded an impressive 75 total digs in the defensive effort. Up Next The Bulldogs will face off against the no. 8 seeded Corban University (Ore.) at 10am in the Tyson Events Center. Corban enters the matchup after winning pool H to advance to the Quarterfinal matchup. The Warriors are 26-5 on their season and advanced to the game after defeated the College of Idaho 3-0 and Aquinas College 3-2 in their pool. The winner of the game will advance to the semifinals on Dec. 9 at 4 p.m. MT.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information PC Terri Haverfield DILLON, Mont. –  The Montana Western women's basketball team (2-4) took on the RV Jamestown University Jimmies this evening and lost in a tough matchup by a final score of 68-54. The Bulldogs struggled to keep up in the second half, being outscored by the Jimmies 45-25 across the final two quarters. How It Happened Payton Hagy got the Bulldogs out to a solid start as she hit a pair of triples from deep behind the arc to take a 10-9 lead with 5:02 left in the first quarter. Joelnell Momberg added to the lead, popping off for a pair of jumpers in a row to give Western four-point lead at 16-12 heading into the second quarter. UJ pieced together a 4-0 run behind a pair from the charity stripe from Megan Oswald and a layup from Jessika Lofstrom to close the gap to two points. Ava Bellach broke a three-minutes scoring drought for the Bulldogs, hitting a pair of threes to give UMW the lead and help the Bulldogs to a 29-23 lead at the half break. After receiving four points from Maddy Moy at the start of the third, the Bulldogs hit a stall as the Jimmies ran behind a 9-0 scoring run to take their first lead of the game at 34-33. The two teams continued to battle for position throughout the remainer of the quarter, with Jamestown settling into a four-point advantage at 46-42 heading into the fourth. The Jimmies outpaced the Bulldogs down the stretch, outscoring Western 22-12 in the final frame to take the 68-54 victory. Notables The Bulldogs struggled from the field, shooting a combined 29.9 percent and just 23.3 percent from the arc. Hagy led the Bulldogs on the day with 14 points after hitting four threes. Joelnell Momberg added 10 points, four rebounds and three assists in the game. Kenzi Pedersen led the Bulldogs in rebounds, totaling six for the night. Up Next The Bulldogs will return to the court on Friday December 13 for an exhibition against MSU Billings. The game will be in Billings at 6 p.m. in the Alterowitz Gymnasium.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information SIOUX CITY, Iowa. –  The no. 16 seeded Montana Western women's volleyball team (24-9) made history this afternoon after they defeated the no. 24 seeded William Carey (Miss.) in a statement sweep to win their first ever NAIA National Championship final site game. "I was really impressed at how poised and confident they were today. We had a good balanced offense and served tough against a really solid William Carey team," Head Coach Katie Lovett said. How It Happened The Bulldogs built a three-point lead early in the first set, buying back-to-back points behind kills from Olivia Rosborough and Jordan Olson . Up 12-9, the Bulldogs were able to hold off the counter-attack from the Lady Crusaders that saw them tie it at 15 all. Western kept their lead intact down the stretch though and held a 24-20 lead. Despite three-straight points from William Carey, a timeout for Western broke the run and Olson would knock down a kill to cap the set up 25-23. The Bulldog women found their footing early in the second set, riding a 5-0 scoring run to a 13-9 lead. They continued to impress as Smith combined for a pair of kills late in the set to lead the Bulldogs to a 25-16 set two win. In the final set, UMW showed their dominance early as Peyton Vogl and Dani Brown combined for a block to take a three-point lead early. Up 15-9 mid-set, the Lady Crusaders put together an impressive response by putting up five straight points to close within just one point of the Bulldogs. Olson recorded a kill from the right side and Brown added her own to reclaim momentum. Smith put down two big kills in a row as Western pressed on to a 22-16 lead. They went on to win the final frame 25-21 behind six kills in the set from Smith. Notables Today's win marks the first time in school history the Bulldogs have won a game at the NAIA National Championship final site. This win comes just one year after the Bulldogs recorded their first ever postseason victory. The Bulldogs served up eight aces in the victory, a mark reached just three times this season. Smith led the Bulldogs with 10 kills and 12 digs. She also added a pair of service aces. Taylor Petersen served up three aces in the win. The Bulldogs also totaled seven blocks in the game, led by Danyel Martin who had four blocks in the game. Up Next The Bulldogs return to action tomorrow morning against the no. 1 seeded Northwestern at 9am in the Tyson Events Center. The Red Raiders enter the matchup 1-0 in pool play after they defeated William Carey in the opening game of pool play in three sets to one. The top team from Pool A will advance to face the Pool H winner in the next round. Tomorrow's game will determine who will advance to quarterfinals action.

Dillon MT, 12/05/2024 – A 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee was severely damaged early Thursday morning when it was struck by another vehicle at the intersection of Center and North Nevada streets. The collision occurred around 6 A.M. and left the rear of the Jeep in considerable disrepair.   Witnesses reported that the vehicle involved in the incident was an older model, white Ford pickup. Following the crash, the driver of the Ford fled the scene, prompting local police to launch an investigation and seek information regarding the individual responsible.   The owner of the Jeep is eager to obtain the driver's insurance details, as the damage inflicted upon the vehicle is extensive.   Authorities are urging anyone with information related to the incident to reach out to the police. Additionally, if the driver of the white Ford sees this report, they are encouraged to come forward to provide their account of the events.

Get ready to celebrate the holiday season with our local shops offering great deals and festive goodies! But that’s not all—there will be plenty of fun events and activities happening throughout the day. Don’t miss out on the holiday cheer! Bring your family and friends and enjoy a magical evening in downtown Dillon. Shop local, enjoy the festivities, and make unforgettable memories! Friday 12/06 Community Nativity Scene Displays Join us during the Christmas Stroll for our annual Community Nativity Scene exhibit at the museum. The exhibit is in the main museum and open to the public free of charge. The exhibit will be on display from December 6th through December 17th from 10 am to 3 pm. Candi and the board of Trustees thank you for supporting the Beaverhead County Museum these past years! Festival of Trees Free Family Night Festival of Trees Family Night will coincide with the Christmas Stroll. The Shine Studio Dancers will perform and there will be children's games for all ages! Santa will arrive after the parade. Funds raised will go to the Dillon Elks Lodge 1554 and Beaverhead Meals on Wheels. Saturday 12/07 Breakfast With Santa Come join us for our annual Breakfast With Santa event! See Santa, have some breakfast and make a craft! Adults - $5 3+ - $3 2 and Under - Free 2024 Children's Christmas Store Join us for the Christmas Store at UMWestern Festival of Trees Gala The gala will be held in the Lewus & Clark room on the U of M Western campus. The social hour will star at 5 pm followed by a Tuscan chicken dinner. This event will have a live and silent auction. Tickets for the Gala can be purchased at The Bookstore. Ticket prices are $40 for individual tickets and $320 for a table of eight. The 2024 recipients of funds raised are the Dillon Elks Lodge 1554 and the Beaverhead Meals on Wheels. Sunday 12/08 Annual Christmas Wreath Walk Please join us in bringing some old-fashioned Christmas fun to Bannack. Local organizations are asked to decorate a wreath depicting the theme of your group to be hung on a door at the park. Visitors to the park that week will be encouraged to vote for their favorite to win the People’s Choice Award. A Reception will be held on Saturday, December 14th, from 1 to 3 pm in the Visitor Center at Bannack. Desserts and hot drinks will be provided. The People’s Choice Winner will be announced. All wreaths will be available to purchase through a silent auction. Deliver and hang your wreath on Sunday, December 8th from 1 to 3 pm. For more information or to enter a wreath, please contact us by Dec.5th at: Bannack State Park: 406-834-3413 OR Call Arlis Vannett: 406-925-2209

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Thursday December 5th, 2024 at 7:00 P.M. City Council Chambers  Planning Board Meeting AGENDA   A.   Call Meeting to Order B.   Review and Approval of Minutes from the November 19th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes C.    Review/Approve Growth Policy Survey D.   Update of Beaverhead County Planning Board Activities E.    Public Comment on items of significant public interest not on the agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Planning Board. F.    Adjournment                 Zoom link is available. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528,          allowing permission for mic and camera (if using a computer go to       https://zoom.us/j/7703166528 ) and use Passcode 4245 .     Planning Board Members:       Don Hand, Bill Shafer, Dan Nye, Ed Mooney, Michael Saunders, Maria Emmer-Aanes

Twin Bridges, Montana — Representative Ken Walsh is ready to take on new responsibilities as the Montana Legislature prepares to convene for its 69th session on January 6th. Following recent preparatory meetings in Helena, Walsh has been assigned to the influential Appropriations Committee, where he will play a critical role in shaping the state’s budget. Walsh, who represents House District 69, expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming session and the opportunities it presents. "The Appropriations Committee is tasked with the vital job of vetting and presenting a balanced budget. This session will undoubtedly bring significant challenges, but I am committed to prudent deliberation to ensure we meet the state's financial demands while addressing key priorities," said Walsh. Among the top priorities for the session are property taxes, the renewal of current Medicaid policies, education funding, and critical infrastructure needs, including state-owned water projects, prisons, unfunded pension plans, and road and bridge maintenance. Walsh emphasized the importance of addressing these issues head-on rather than deferring them to future generations. In addition to his new committee role, Walsh has been actively involved in water policy, working to balance the demands of growth with the protection of senior water right holders. "Water policy is a complex issue, but I am dedicated to finding solutions that work for all Montanans," he stated. Representative Walsh invites his constituents to stay informed and engaged throughout the legislative session. "Your input is invaluable to me as your representative. I encourage everyone to follow along via the legislative website and reach out with your thoughts and priorities," Walsh added. For more information or to share your views, please visit www.leg.mt.gov or contact Representative Ken Walsh directly at 406-596-0418 or kenneth.walsh@legmt.gov .

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. — Montana Western is proud to announce that Assistant Athletic Director Lindsey Branch has been named to the prestigious College Sports Communicators (CSC) 30 Under 30 Class for 2024. In just its third year, this national recognition has quickly become one of the most meaningful honors for young communications and creative professionals in college sports. The 2024 class was selected from a record 176 nominees. To be eligible, candidates must be CSC members, 29 years old or younger on December 31, 2024, and must not have previously received the honor. Selections are based on professional success, contributions to their athletic department or conference office, and service to CSC. "Lindsey's hard work and passion have elevated Montana Western Athletics," said Michael Feuling, Montana Western's Athletic Director. "Her selection in the CSC 30 Under 30 Class highlights not only her exceptional talent but also her dedication to our student-athletes, programs, and the entire Bulldog community. We are so fortunate to have her on our team." Branch's recognition highlights the excellence she brings to Montana Western Athletics and reflects the institution's commitment to supporting and celebrating its talented professionals. Her achievements have made a lasting impact on Bulldog Athletics, further establishing Montana Western as a leader in collegiate sports. About CSC 30 Under 30 The CSC 30 Under 30 honors rising stars in the world of college sports communication and creativity. It celebrates individuals who are shaping the future of the industry through their achievements and dedication.

The Montana Campus Network for Civic Engagement (MCNCE) has recognized twelve student-athletes with the Montana Athletes in Service Award (MAIS), including Montana Western’s Kaylee Fritz. Each year, the MCNCE honors one student-athlete from each affiliate campus across the state who demonstrates exceptional dedication to serving their community while pursuing their college degrees or certificates and competing in collegiate sports. The 2024 MAIS award recipients are: Kaylee Fritz  | University of Montana Western | Volleyball Abraham Chentnik  | Flathead Valley Community College | Logger Sports Abby Clark  | Montana Technological University | Volleyball and Track and Field Hunter Peck  | Carroll College | Football Tamika Guardipee  | Salish Kootenai College | Basketball Walker Bennett  | Miles Community College | Baseball Jaiden Dulin  | Dawson Community College | Volleyball Jay Beagle  | University of Montana | Track and Field Emily Feller  | Montana State University-Northern | Volleyball Zack Blaszak  | Montana State University Billings | Baseball Gracey Carter  | Montana State University | Track and Field Geordy Medicine Cloud  | Fort Peck Community College | Baseball, Track and Field The recipients were celebrated during halftime at the 2024 Brawl of the Wild game at Bobcat Stadium on November 23. Kaylee Fritz, the President of Montana Western’s Association of Student-Athletes (ASA), has been a tireless advocate for the needs of student-athletes, fostering unity and support within the athletic community. Beyond her leadership on campus, she volunteers her time coaching youth volleyball, making a positive impact on younger players. As a student-athlete, ASA President, and team captain, Kaylee exemplifies a commitment to service, both on and off the court. Her dedication to helping others, whether through supporting her teammates or mentoring young athletes, makes her an inspiring role model for her peers and the broader community.

Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is pleased to announce that Mary Ann Nicholas will serve as the next Executive Director of Barrett Hospital Foundation beginning December 2nd, 2024. Mary Ann will work with the Foundation’s Board of Directors and Barrett Hospital & HealthCare’s hospital leadership to direct the fundraising efforts of Barrett Hospital Foundation. Our sincere thanks go out to Brooke Erb, who became the Foundation's Executive Director in September 2016. Under Brooke’s leadership, the Foundation has grown and entered a new era of giving. During the past eight years, funds have been raised to support the hospital's greatest needs, including the establishment of a multimillion-dollar Equipment & Technology Endowment that will continue to support the hospital's future needs. Through the generous support of Foundation donors, our community hospital has been enriched in so many meaningful ways. To ensure that our community is cared for, Brooke will continue working with the Foundation through December 2024. We are grateful to Brooke for her years of service and are excited to welcome Mary Ann Nicholas during a time of growth and expansion for the hospital.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. —  The no. 4 ranked Montana Western football team is set to host the no. 6 seeded Morningside (Iowa) in the quarterfinal of the NAIA Football Championship Series (FCS) on Saturday Dec. 7 at 12pm. The game is part of a four-game slate across the NAIA with a trip to the semifinals up for grabs. Montana Western enters the game following a win over the no. 14 Dickinson State Blue Hawks, their first playoff win since 1994. The Bulldogs were led by  Michael Palandri  who threw for 388 passing yards and five touchdowns. Morningside earned their way into the quarterfinal game after they demolished MidAmerica Nazarene 35-0. The game was highlighted by MU's Dijian Walls who broke a school record with a 100-yard interception return for a touchdown early in the third quarter. Game Information There will be no passes or pass lists for this game. Tickets must be purchased to enter. Sideline Passes -  All regular season credentials (sideline passes) are invalid. Parking – Parking will be $5 per car at the stadium. Cash only. *Tailgating is only allowed in the designated tailgate location. Tailgating -  Those who have purchased season tailgate spots will have them for the playoffs with no additional charge. Tailgate Information - Montana Western, University of ( umwbulldogs.com ) Tickets –  Tickets are required for all attendees and can be purchased online in advance. UMW students, staff and faculty ID cards, as well as all other passes, are not valid for entry to NAIA playoff games. You can purchase your tickets  here. Season ticket holders will receive an email with instructions on how to purchase their reserved tickets for this game. Tickets will go on sale on Tuesday, December 3, 2024 online. We encourage you to secure your tickets early to avoid any delays at the ticket booth on game day. Prices for the game are listed below: Reserved Seating Admission: $25 General Admission Adult (18-59): $20 General Admission Senior (60+)/Student (K-College): $15 Livestream –  The game will be available on the  Bulldog Sports Network - YouTube Live Stats –   Live Stats Link for UMW Bulldogs vs Morningside

DVFD responded to  calls for service during the month of November 2024.    11-02               E Glendale                              False Alarm 11-02               Hwy 41 N                               MVA 11-04               S Idaho                                   Gas Leak 11-04               S Montana                             Gas Leak 11-04               Sebree St                                 Gas Leak 11-06               W Reeder                                Gas Leak 11-10               N Montana                              Public Service 11-11               Pioneer Dr                               Smoke Odor 11-15               Sweetwater Rd                       MVA 11-16               I 15 MM 85                             Vehicle Fire 11-16               Hwy 41                                   MVA 11-17               Blktail & Smith Rd                 MVA 11-17               I 15 MM 55                             MVA 11-18               S WY & E Reeder                  Gas Odor 11-18               I 15 MM 42                             MVA 11-18               Hwy 41 MM 11                      MVA 11-23               Hwy 278 MM 14                    MVA 11-23               Pioneer Dr                               Smoke Investigation 11-23               ID & Reeder                           Hit & Run 11-23               N Railroad                              Gas Odor 11-24               Expedition Dr                         Structure Fire 11-25               Southside Blvd                       Fire Alarm 11-25               I 15 MM 53                             Vehicle Fire 11-26               Sweetwater Rd                       MVA   11-27               Thomsen Ave                         EMS Call/Gas Odor 11-28               W Orr St                                 Alarm 11-28               E Poindexter St                       Gas Odor 11-29               Birch Creek                             Uncontrolled Burn Hwy 91 S                                Ambulance Assist     November  monthly training included Hose Lay training   Thanks to all of our firefighters & officers for their continued dedication to the City of Dillon & Beaverhead Fire District #2  Thank you for your continued support of the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department.   Please be safe & take extra time while traveling this time of year as the road conditions can become dangerous without warning.