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Submitted by: Mel Rice-Public Relations The Beaverhead Search and Rescue held its April meeting on the evening of the 3rd.  The meeting was called to order by Vice Commander Shane Puyear at 7:05 PM.  It was a very short meeting with very few things to discuss.  Once again another month passes by without any incidents.  We must be saving up for that rainy day…    It was agreed to hold our annual camp out training June 7,8, and 9.  More info to come next month.  The membership discussed whether or not to have an auction this year.  After many viewpoints were expressed, a vote was taken and it was voted not to have an auction this year. The meeting adjourned around 7:40.  Equipment manager, Evan Helle, had a list of things he needed help with on equipment.  The rest of the evening was spent working on various projects. It looks like spring may be close.   We can only hope.  The weather this time of year can change in a hurry and may even be quite different from draw to draw out in the hills or from one side of the valley to the other.  Make sure you are properly prepared for different circumstances.   Take care out there!!  “In the Business of Saving Lives”, your Beaverhead Search and Rescue.

HELENA – A Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks warden stopped a driver pulling a ski boat after he drove past an aquatic invasive species (AIS) inspection station near Anaconda last week. The warden noticed some mussels on the boat and had the driver return to the inspection station where many more mussels were detected. A full decontamination was performed at the station and the boat was locked to the trailer. This is a good reminder that it’s the law that anyone transporting watercraft (motorized and non-motorized) must stop at all open inspection stations they encounter. Watercraft includes paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, rafts and pack rafts. Nonresidents and residents returning home must have their watercraft inspected before launching in Montana. Watercraft must also be drained of all water before transporting. “Although it might be tempting to drive past an inspection station, boaters need to be aware that it’s up to them to prevent AIS from coming into our state,” said Tom Woolf, FWP’s AIS bureau chief. “An inspection typically takes less than 10 minutes.” The driver was transporting the boat from Michigan to British Columbia. It was the fourth mussel-fouled watercraft intercepted in Montana this season. Boats with mussels have also been detected at the inspection station near Dillon, where a fifth boat was found to have mussels on Monday. Watercraft inspection stations are Montana’s first line of defense to prevent the movement of AIS, which can have devastating impacts on Montana waterways. AIS are plants, animals, or pathogens that are not native to Montana and can cause harm to our environment and economy. “It’s everyone’s responsibility to help stop the spread of AIS to Montana waters,” Woolf said. Learn more at fwp.mt.gov/conservation/aquatic-invasive-species or call the FWP Aquatic Invasive Species Bureau at 406-444-2440.

Dillon, MT - The Women's Resource Center (WRC) and Vibrant Lives of Montana are pleased to announce a collaborative effort to offer "InPower: Mindfulness for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault," a free, transformative eight-week program designed to empower survivors in our community. Starting April 30 and concluding June 25, 2024, the program will be led by Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, Yoga Educator, and Meditation Instructor Melainya Ryan at the WRC, 236 E. Reeder Street, Dillon, MT. Sessions are every Tuesday from 6:00-7:30 p.m. Dinner is provided. "We believe that every survivor deserves the opportunity to reclaim their power and learn how to prioritize their own well-being," said Melainya Ryan, Founder of Vibrant Lives of Montana. "Through 'InPower,' we hope to create a confidential, safe space for survivors to explore and connect with their inner strength and resilience." The eight-week program aims to equip survivors with essential tools and insights to foster self-love, resilience and holistic wellbeing. Through mindfulness practices and guided discussions, participants will delve into topics such as attachment, the human nervous system, emotional regulation, and the mind-body connection. Week 1: Intro of Mindfulness and Self Care as a Deep, Disciplined Care of the Mind, Body and Spirit Week 2: Attachment: The Lens through Which We Learn to Trust Ourselves, Others and this Life Week 3: The Function of the Human Nervous System Week 4: The Wonder of Emotion Week 5: Welcome to the Storm Week 6: Finding the Eye of the Tornado Week 7: The Power of Now Week 8: InPower: Mindfulness - Tying it All Together "We are thrilled to partner with Vibrant Lives of Montana to offer a program that teaches self-awareness and self-care," said Rebecca Knotts, Executive Director of the Women's Resource Center. "Together, we are committed to providing survivors with the support and resources they need to heal and thrive. Registration for "InPower: Mindfulness for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault" is now open. For more information, please contact Izzi Simonsen at (406) 683-6106 or register online registration at www.wrcmt.org/inpower.html

Dillon, Montana, April 04, 2024 –Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, a leading provider of comprehensive health services, is proud to announce that it has been recognized as a Top 20 Critical Access Hospital for the sixth time. This prestigious acknowledgment highlights Barrett Hospital & HealthCare's continuous commitment to providing high- quality, patient-centered care in the rural health landscape. The Top 20 Critical Access Hospital accolade is awarded by the National Rural Health Association (NRHA), in partnership with The Chartis Center for Rural Health, based on an analysis of The Hospital Strength INDEX®. This benchmarking tool evaluates hospitals on various performance metrics, including quality, outcomes, patient perspective, and financial efficiency. "We are incredibly honored to receive this distinction for the sixth time," said Taylor Rose, Chief Executive Officer of Barrett Hospital & HealthCare. "This award is a testament to our dedicated team of healthcare professionals who strive every day to deliver exceptional care to our community. Their commitment to excellence is what sets us apart and ensures that we meet the evolving health needs of our patients and families." Barrett Hospital & HealthCare stands out as a beacon of medical excellence in a rural setting, providing a range of services from primary care to specialized treatments. The critical access hospital designation highlights the essential role Barrett plays in ensuring local communities have access to high quality healthcare. This year's recognition further cements Barrett Hospital & HealthCare's position as a leader in rural healthcare and underscores its successful commitment to innovation, quality care practices, and patient satisfaction. "We remain dedicated to not only maintaining but exceeding these standards of care," continued Taylor Rose. "Our goal is to make a significant, positive impact on the health and well-being of every patient we serve." Barrett Hospital & HealthCare invites the community to join in celebrating this significant achievement. With plans to continue its focus on excellence in patient-centered care, Barrett looks forward to serving its community's health needs for many years to come.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. – The Frontier Conference announces that 175 student-athletes from the four conference winter sports have been named Academic All-Conference presented by Logan Health and Billings Clinic. Montana Western had 13 athletes selected to the list, with Women's Basketball leading the way with seven athletes honored. "Billings Clinic-Logan Health is pleased to extend support to student-athletes from the Frontier Conference, and we congratulate those who have achieved Academic All-Conference status," said Joe McClafferty, president of the Logan Health Foundation. "We understand the demanding balance between sports and academics for these students and we're excited to see how these exceptional leaders make the world a better place." To be eligible for the award, student-athletes must be at least a sophomore in standing and carry a minimum 3.25 cumulative GPA. Indoor Track & Field Brant Heiner, Distance (Ronan, Mont. / SO) Landon Hayes, Distance (Wasilla, Alaska / SO) Women's Basketball Keke Davis, Forward (Missoula, Mont. / SO) Payton Hagy, Guard (Ephrata, Wash. / JR) Isabella Lund, Guard (Tumwater, Wash. / SO) Shainy Mack, Guard (Three Forks, Mont. / SR) Joelnell Momberg, Guard (Box Elder, Mont. / R-JR) Hailey Pike, Forward (Blaine, Wash. / R-FR) Jordan Sweeney, Guard (Oakley, Calif. / SR) Men's Basketball Jacob Ankeny, Forward (Marsing, Idaho / R-SO) Kevin Bethel, Guard (Los Angeles, Calif. / JR) Michael Haverfield, Guard (Dillon, Mont. / R-JR) Quincy Taylor, Guard (Sacramento, Calif. / JR)

Thursday April 4th, 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 March 21 st , 2024 Meeting C. Review/Recommendation of the Clover View Subdivision/Love’s Project (Application Binder is available to review at City Hall) D. Review/Discussion of the Tully Springs Amendment to Amended Final Plat (Finding of Fact and Staff Report 3-20-2024 is not a City of Dillon Document) E. Update of Beaverhead County Planning Board Activities F. Public Comment on items of significant public interest not on the agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Planning Board. G. 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, Larry Volkening, Dan Nye, Ed Mooney

Ray Lynch Park was the place to be Tuesday afternoon as both the BCHS Boys Baseball Team and the Lady Softball teams had home games. Ray Lynch Park is showing its potential to host major baseball tournaments as both teams took home blowout wins. The Beaver Boys ran over Butte Central with an 11 to 0 win. Kale Konen collected three hits in four at bats. Kale singled in the first inning, and singled in the fifth inning. Sawyer Tackett struck out ten batters for the day. He also surrendered zero hits and zero runs over five and one-third innings while walking three. The Beavers got on the board in the first inning after a passed ball scored one run. In the bottom of the sixth inning the Beavers scored six runs on two hits. Kale Konen singled, scoring one run, Jake Tauscher induced Trenton Moreni to hit into fielders’ choice, but two runs scored. Andrew Bartlome drew a walk, scoring one run, and Marcus Lagunas doubled, scoring two runs. Sawyer Tackett, Marcus Lagunas, and Andrew Bartlome each drove in two runs for the Beavers. Kale Konen and Andrew Bartlome each had stolen multiple bases. The Beavers ran wild with stolen bases and had turned one double play in the game. The Beavers take on the Florence Falcons Friday 3 P.M. at Ray Lynch Park.

The Lady Beavers Softball Team had their first home game of the season Tuesday afternoon. The Lady Beavers came out in the first inning, dominating it over the Blue Devils scoring nine runs. The points raked up with an error scoring one run, Kylie Kones was struck by a pitch, driving in a run, another error scored one run, Adyson Creighton grounded out, scoring one run, and Kinzy Creighton doubled, scoring two runs. In the second inning the Lady Beavers would score a single run after Bailey Blake hit a sacrifice fly. Adyson Creighton dominated the mound for the Lady Beavers. The starting pitcher would only surrender one hit and zero runs over four innings, striking out seven and walking one. Kinzy Creighton went 2 for 3 at the plate to lead the Lady Beavers in hits. Katey Vezina, Tyler Gibson, and Kinzy Creighton each drove in two runs. Kylie Konen had two stolen bases. The Lady Beavers had four stolen bases total. The Lady Beavers will take on Butte Central on April 4, in Butte.

7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A.           MINUTES 1.         Approve March 20th,  2024 Regular Meeting Minutes 2.         Approve March 20th, 2024 Special Public Hearing on Title 17 B.           PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS 1.         Letter to City Council from Judy Siring C.        MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Accept Dan Nye’s Resignation 2.         Elect New Council President 3.         Approve Dan Nye as a Citizen Member on the Planning Board 4.         Discuss/Approve Moving Forward on Skihi Street 5.         First Reading of Ordinance #476 Amending the Dillon Municipal Code, Title 6 - Animals D.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Lori Canady, Library Director 2.         Planning Board  - Bill Shafer a.         Accept December 7th, 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes 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, Joleen Schultz 5.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6.         Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez a.         Accept the March 2024, Incident Report 7.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose a.         Accept March, 2024  Activity Report b.         Accept the City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for March, 2024 c.         Accept the Budget vs. Expenditures for Fire Hall for March, 2024 8.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox a.         Accept the March 2024, Court Report 9.         Treasurer – Karen Kipp 10.       Tree Board – Mary Jo O’Rourke E.         REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Judiciary Committee – Raymond Graham, Diane Armstrong 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Dan Nye, Anneliese Ripley a.         Approve  March 29th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes i.          Approve Line Item Budget Report ii.          Approve Fund Summary for Claims for March 2024 iii.         Approve Claims by Vendor Report for March 2024 iv.        Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for March 2024 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 a.         Approve  March 21st, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes 5.         Cemetery Committee – Diane Armstrong, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Anneliese Ripley a.         Approve March 20th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes b.         Approve April 1st, 2024 Special Meeting Minutes i.          Discuss/Approve Request to Purchase New Cemetery Software 6.         Parks Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz a.         Approve March 20th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes i.          Discuss/Approve DBSA Lease Agreement for Ray Lynch Park 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 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.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information KANSAS CITY, Mo. -  The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) announced the 2023-24 NAIA Women's Basketball All-America Teams. Jordan Sweeney was selected for second team honors. Sweeney, a 5-7 guard from Oakley, Calif., was previously selected as a Frontier Conference first team all-conference selection and as an AP All American Honorable Mention after she led the Frontier with 20.6 points per game and 5.4 assists per game. She also joined Montana Western's 1,000 point club after two seasons with the Bulldogs after she dropped 43 points against Rocky Mountain College back on February 24 for a new UMW single game scoring record. This is the second time Sweeney has earned All-America honors, earning a third team selection last season. All of the selections are made by the NAIA Women's Basketball All-America Committee and are comprised of first, second and third teams.

DVFD responded to 12 calls for service during the month of March 2024. 3-04                 Helena St                                MVA 3-09                 Sweetwater Estates                 Grass fire 3-09                 Kentucky & Vine                    Dumpster fire 3-12                 Hwy 41                                   Unpermitted burn 3-14                 Sandy Ln                                 Structure fire 3-16                 Hwy 278                                 Controlled burn 3-16                 E Sebree                                  Gas leak 3-19                 N Pacific                                 Chimney Fire 3-24                 I-15 MM 69                            MVA 3-24                 Hwy 41 MM 10                      MVA 3-25                 E Morse                                   CO Alarm 3-30                 Hwy 278 MM 19                    MVA Our March training was geared toward the upcoming wildland fire season.  We trained in the operation of our type 6 engines as well as our water tenders.  For our drill night the Montana DNRC instructed our members on the RT-130 Annual Wildland Refresher. 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.

Saturday, March 30 the Dillon Jaycees kicked off Easter with their annual Easter Egg Hunt. This event is held every year at Vigilante Park. With sections divided off for age groups everyone participating is sure to walk away with a few goodies. Not only do they have treats for the kids, but they also serve light refreshments for the adults. 10 A.M. Sharp the siren from the Jaycees trusty old fire truck rings through the air and kids make a mad dash at the prizes scattered about the park. Within a few minutes all that’s left are a few open eggs that missed being picked up and the park has been cleared of any evidence that this yearly event was held.

The University of Montana Western would like to invite the campus and community to the spring Student Art Show with an opening reception to be held on Thursday, April 11 from 5:00 - 7:00 p.m. in the Fine Arts Gallery located in Main Hall. Join us as we celebrate the end of the semester and showcase the incredible talent of Montana Western students during the Annual Student Art Show. This year’s show will be juried by Montana artist, Tandy Miles Riddle. Riddle recently held an exhibition at Montana Western titled “River Trip” where she displayed her award-winning plein air art inspired by the beauty she finds and explores in Southwest Montana. Montana Western students interested in participating in the show can submit their work to the Fine Arts Gallery on April 8 or 9 from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Participants can submit up to three unique pieces of work. All submissions must be prepared to be displayed by either being framed or mounted. All forms of media will be accepted and any major is invited to participate. A free public reception will be held on Thursday, April 11 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. in UMW’s Fine Arts Gallery. Light refreshments will be served and awards will be presented to the top placing students during this time. The show will be open for viewing from April 11 – 26, 2024. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. For more information, please contact Montana Western Fine Arts Gallery Coordinator, Jennifer Boysen: jennifer.boysen@umwestern.edu.

Wednesday, March 28 an accident involving three vehicles closed down Montana 41 at MM 25 for a couple hours. Montana Highway Patrol reported two individuals were airlifted from the scene of the crash. According to reports a semi tractor trailer was traveling northbound, and a SUV was headed southbound. The SUV had its left turn signal on to pull into a residential driveway off highway 41. A pickup truck struck the back of the SUV and pushed it into the path of the semi. The three adults involved in the crash are listed in serious condition. We will update this story if more information becomes available.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE SPECIAL MEETING April 1st , 2024 9:00 A.M. AGENDA 1. Call To Order 2. Discuss/Recommend Cemetery Software 3. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not On the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City 4. Adjournment Committee Members: Diane Armstrong, Chairperson Mary Jo O’Rourke Anneliese Ripley

STREET & ALLEY COMMITTEE MEETING ~ AGENDA ~ Monday, April 1st , 2024 3:00 PM 1. Call to Order 2. Discuss/Recommend Chip Sealing Project for HB 355 3. Discuss/Recommend Vine Street Options 4. Public Comment on Items Not Agenda but Within The Jurisdiction of The City 5. Adjournment Committee Members Dan Nye, Chair Russ Schwandt Joleen Schultz

BOZEMAN – Hunter and Bowhunter Education instructors in southwestern Montana were recognized recently for their dedicated service in mentoring the next generation of hunters. Classes in Montana’s Hunter, Bowhunter and Trapper Education programs are taught by volunteer instructors willing to share their knowledge, skills and enthusiasm. Each in-person class is free for students, who gain valuable hands-on experience that help them be safe and successful while in the field. Southwestern Montana’s 129 active volunteer instructors have more than 1,300 years of combined experience teaching Hunter, Bowhunter and Trapper Education, with an average service term of more than 10 years. Vincent Salvia of Bozeman was recognized as the region’s Instructor of the Year. Salvia was nominated by his fellow instructors because of his frequent and positive presence in the program and the way he makes classes enjoyable for both students and other instructors. During Salvia’s 20 years in the program, he has taught in 39 classes, donated more than 870 hours of service, and helped certify 3,987 students. The following instructors were also recognized at the Region 3 workshop for achieving service milestones in Hunter Education: 5 years David Genter, Bozeman Mandy Kemp, Bozeman Amanda McKeever, Belgrade 10 years Mike Mason, Belgrade Hailey Vidmar, Bozeman Eric Williamson, Bozeman Bill Rambow, McLeod Sven Wigert, Missoula 15 years Larry Ball, Ennis Mark Kramer, Bozeman 20 years Vincent Salvia, Bozeman Samuel Stockett, Sheridan 25 years George Clement, Belgrade Jim Johnson, Bozeman 30 years James Aughney, Three Forks Robert Logar, Manhattan The following instructors from the region were recognized for achieving service milestones in Bowhunter Education: 5 years Jager Rogers, Harrison 15 years Larry Ball, Ennis Carla Williams, Clyde Park 20 years Samuel Stockett, Sheridan 30 years Jason LaCross, Bozeman Hunter, Bowhunter and Trapper Education instructors find volunteering to be personally rewarding. They often feel they are making a positive difference in the lives of new hunters in ways that can last for generations. Many instructors also discover common interests and camaraderie with other program volunteers Montana needs more volunteer instructors in its Hunter, Bowhunter and Trapper Education programs. Anyone with experience in these areas is encouraged to apply. To learn more, click here. To find a class near you, click here.

Dillon, Montana, March 27, 2024 – Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is excited to announce the launch of its Community Lab Fair every Thursday and Friday throughout the month of April. This initiative is part of Barrett's ongoing commitment to support the health and wellbeing of our community by offering an array of laboratory services at significantly reduced prices. Understanding the financial challenges that routine and preventative health screenings can present to individuals and families, Barrett Hospital & HealthCare has taken a proactive step to ensure these essential services are accessible to all, including uninsured individuals. EVENT DETAILS: What: Community Lab Fair When: Every Thursday and Friday, April 2024 Time: 8:00am – 11:00am Where: Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, Hospital location only at: 600 MT HWY 91 S. During the Lab Fair, community members will have the opportunity to benefit from a range of laboratory tests at reduced fees. These tests are crucial for early detection and management of various health conditions. The selection includes, but is not limited to: - Complete Blood Count (CBC) - Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) - C-Reactive Protein (CRP) - Lipid Panel - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Test - Hemoglobin A1C levels - Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test - Vitamin D levels - Insulin Barrett Hospital & HealthCare's skilled laboratory technicians will be on hand to provide professional, confidential, and compassionate service. Please note that a doctor's orders are not required for the tests offered during the fair, and all results will be sent directly to participants. Reid Watkins, Manager of Laboratory Services at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, stated, “Our lab fair is designed to encourage our community members to take charge of their health. By offering these tests at a reduced cost, we hope to reduce any financial barriers that may prevent individuals from getting the care they need.” No appointment is necessary, and services will be provided on a first-come-first-serve basis. It is advised to fast for 12 hours before participating in the blood draw, although water and medications can be taken as usual. Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is proud to be a beacon of health and wellness in the community. We invite all community members to take advantage of this opportunity to better their health at reduced costs. For more information about the Community Lab Fair and the services offered, please visit www.barretthospital.org.

A few programs available for homeowners: Homeowners may qualify for the Property Tax Assistance Program (PTAP). Eligibility for this program is based on home ownership, occupancy requirements, and income qualifications. Legislative changes to the program for Tax Year 2024 include higher qualifying income levels and an increase in the amount of property market value eligible for the tax assistance from $200,000 to $350,000. Montana veterans who are 100% disabled or the surviving unmarried spouse of a deceased veteran who was 100% disabled may qualify for the Montana Disabled Veterans (MDV) Property Tax Assistance Program. Eligibility for reduced property taxes is based on home ownership, occupancy, military disability requirements, and income qualifications. Similar to PTAP for Tax Year 2024, the MDV program will have higher qualifying income levels.