The University of Montana Western will celebrate its 129th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Bulldog Stadium on the UMW campus. “We look forward to celebrating this important milestone for our students, and we are proud of all of their accomplishments,” said Montana Western Chancellor Michael Reid. A total of 350 Montana Western graduates will be awarded over 405 degrees by the end of the 2025–26 academic year. Of those graduates, 58 have completed two or more degrees, and 80% are receiving honors by achieving a GPA of 3.33 or higher. Over 200 graduates have chosen to participate in this year’s ceremony. The ceremony’s Chief Marshal will be UMW Equine Studies Instructor, Iola “Olie” Else. Commencement Speaker: Heather Hoyer This year’s commencement will feature Board of Regents Member and Great Falls Public Schools Superintendent Heather Hoyer. A Montana native and Montana Western alumna, Hoyer brings more than 30 years of experience across K–12 and higher education. She is widely recognized for her leadership in hands-on learning and Career and Technical Education, including being named the 2024 Montana ACTE Administrator of the Year, and continues to serve on statewide boards, including the Montana University System Board of Regents. “Montana Western is thrilled to welcome alumna Heather Hoyer back to campus as our 2026 Commencement speaker,” said Chancellor Michael Reid. “Her journey from UMW student to statewide education leader is inspiring, and we are excited for our graduates to learn from her experiences.” UMW Alumni Distinguished Service Award Recipient: Dr. Janelle Handlos Dr. Janelle Handlos, a Montana Western alumna, has dedicated more than 20 years to the university as an educator and athletic professional. Since joining UMW in 2001, she has served in a variety of roles, including Head Athletic Trainer, Interim Athletic Director, faculty member, and department chair, while also helping establish the Department of Health & Human Performance. She remains actively involved in the Dillon community through coaching, volunteer work, and service. “We are honored to recognize Dr. Janelle Handlos with the 2026 Montana Western Alumni Distinguished Service Award,” said UMW Foundation and Alumni Director Roxanne Engellant. “Her impact on students, campus programs, and the Dillon community reflects her strong commitment to service and leadership.” Events Leading Up to Commencement Social Honoring Dr. Janelle Handlos and UMW Classes of 1976 and 2001 The Montana Western Foundation and Alumni Office will host a social honoring Dr. Janelle Handlos and Montana Western classes of 1976 and 2001 on Friday, May 8, in the Lewis & Clark Room. Thanks to the generous sponsorship of the UMW Foundation Board, the luncheon is offered at a special reduced rate of $10 per person for all guests. To RSVP, please call 406-683-7303 or visit the UMW Foundation website. Legacy Plaza Ceremony An additional ceremony honoring the 2026 graduating class will be held on Friday, May 8, at 3:30 p.m. on the campus’s Legacy Plaza. This celebration is part of a special tradition at Montana Western, held at the end of each academic year on the eve of the Commencement Ceremony, and honors graduates for completing their degrees and the legacy they will leave at UMW. During the celebration, graduating students will receive their Montana Western alumni tassel, which will be worn during the Commencement Ceremony. The celebration will also include special performances by the Polynesian Club, complimentary hot dogs provided by the UMW Foundation, and no-host beverages available from Sip406. Commencement Day Logistics Graduate Check-In Graduates and degree candidates must arrive at the West Entrance of Bulldog Stadium by 9:00 a.m., dressed in full regalia. The processional will begin at 9:50 a.m. Seating Commencement will be held in Bulldog Stadium and is open to all; no tickets are required. Gates open at 9:00 a.m., and seating is available on the field, in the bleachers, and on the berms on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that seating and parking cannot be reserved. Guests should enter through the main ticket booth entrance. Bulldog Lounge Livestream Viewing A livestream of the ceremony will also be available in the Bulldog Lounge, located on the upper floor of the Student Union Building. Doors open at 9:00 a.m., and seating is first come, first served. Online Livestream For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the Commencement Ceremony will be available starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 9, at umwestern.edu/commencement-live-stream. Bookstore & The Cup Montana Western’s Bookstore and coffee shop, “The Cup,” will be open the morning of commencement. Guests are invited to stop by for a drink or to shop for Bulldog gear. Both the bookstore and The Cup are located in the Student Union Building. For more information, please contact the Montana Western Registrar’s Office by calling 406-683-7371 or visit https://tinyurl.com/UMWComm26.

The Dillon Public Library will host two community workshops this week aimed at supporting families and raising awareness around child abuse and neglect prevention. Both events are part of a grant-funded series through the Montana Children's Trust Fund, designed to bring expert-led education and resources to the community. The public is invited to attend, with light snacks provided and activities available for children attending with parents or guardians. The first workshop takes place Tuesday, April 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., featuring Melissa Winger. This session is the second part of a two-part course focused on understanding how emotional patterns and coping skills are passed down through families. Winger will guide parents in recognizing their own emotional habits, building awareness of family dynamics, and developing healthier responses to stress. Organizers note that attendees do not need to have attended the first session to benefit. The second event will be held Saturday, May 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and features Heidi Gibson presenting “Strengthening Families with Children with Disabilities” as part of a Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect Conference. Gibson’s workshop will focus on practical tools for those working with families and schools, including a deeper understanding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and the role of Parent Training and Information Centers (PTIs) in supporting families and improving outcomes for children with disabilities. Both workshops are free and open to the public.

A longtime Dillon staple is set to close its doors this week. Big Sky Cinema announced Monday morning that it will permanently close, citing ongoing low attendance and financial challenges that have made it difficult to continue operating. The theater’s final day is scheduled for April 29. In its announcement, ownership pointed to declining attendance in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, along with rising operational and maintenance costs. They emphasized the decision was not a reflection of staff or management, but rather the financial reality that the theater is no longer able to turn a profit or break even. The theater first opened its doors on October 27, 1973, originally showing Jeremiah Johnson and Emperor of the North. It was designed by its original owners, Marvin and Patricia Miller, and later operated by Polson Theatres. For generations, Big Sky Cinema has been a cornerstone of entertainment in Dillon—bringing first-run films to the community and hosting its popular summer matinee series for families. With its closure, Dillon loses not just a business, but a piece of its history—an icon that has provided decades of shared experiences on the big screen.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING WEDNESDAY, April 29th, 2026 9:00 A.M. ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Approval of April 2026 Claims 2. Review/Recommend Implementation of HB-231 And SB-542 to Revise Fixed Mill Levies Maximums 3. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction of The City 4. Adjournment Committee Members: Russ Schwandt, Chairperson Mary Jo O’Rourke Jeremy Crawford

The Beaverhead County Beavers and Big Sky Eagles traded momentum throughout Saturday’s matchup, finishing in a 7-7 tie at Ogren Park at Allegiance Field. Big Sky struck first in the opening inning on an RBI single from Mathew Doty. The Beavers answered in the second, taking a 2-1 lead after an error brought home two runs. The Eagles evened things up in the third, capitalizing on a Beaverhead County error to make it 2-2. The Beavers quickly responded in the bottom half of the inning, regaining control with three runs. An error, an RBI double from Andrew Bartlome, and another miscue pushed Beaverhead County ahead 5-2. Big Sky chipped away and delivered a key blow in the sixth when Colter Nicolarsen launched a two-run home run to left field, tightening the game. The Eagles completed the comeback in the seventh, stringing together hits and tying the game at seven on an RBI single by Uriah Johnson. Kanin Engelhardt got the start for Beaverhead County, allowing three runs (one earned) on four hits over four innings, with two strikeouts and three walks. Madden Hensel started for Big Sky, giving up six runs (two earned) on five hits over four innings. Garrett Tackett led the Beavers at the plate, going 2-for-3 out of the nine spot. Bartlome, Cohen Hartman, and Tackett each drove in a run. Beaverhead County also turned a double play defensively. Big Sky totaled 10 hits, led by Doty, who went 3-for-4. Nicolarsen and Doty each drove in two runs, while Johnson added two hits. The Eagles were aggressive on the base paths, stealing four bases. Beaverhead County will be back on the road Tuesday against the Florence Falcons.

The Corvallis Blue Devils broke the game open with an eight-run third inning Saturday, rolling to a 14-2 win over the Beaverhead County Beavers. Corvallis set the tone early, scoring twice in the first inning. Ella Daly doubled down the right field line and Brenna Bear followed with an RBI single to give the Blue Devils a quick 2-0 lead. The game turned decisively in the third. Corvallis plated eight runs on seven hits, highlighted by a two-run home run from Daly. Kirsten Race and Isabella Cardullo each drove in two runs in the inning, while Brooklyn Cary added an RBI single and Natalie Jolley worked a bases-loaded walk. Cary earned the win for Corvallis, allowing five hits and two runs (one earned) over five innings while striking out seven and walking two. Tymber Barnes took the loss for Beaverhead County, surrendering five runs (four earned) in one and one-third innings. Mya Creighton provided relief, tossing three and two-thirds innings with five strikeouts. Beaverhead County finished with five hits, with Barnes going 1-for-2 and driving in a run. Ashlyn Burk, Bridget Lovaas, Kaitlyn Konen, Barnes, and Creighton each recorded a hit. Barnes also stole two bases as the Beavers totaled five steals on the day. Corvallis racked up 13 hits, led by Daly, who went 3-for-5 with four RBIs, including her home run. Daly and Cary each collected three hits, while Libby Jessop and Bear added multiple hits. The Blue Devils also showed patience at the plate, drawing nine walks. Beaverhead County will look to bounce back Tuesday on the road against Hamilton.

MILES CITY, Mont. — The Montana Western women’s rodeo team claimed the team title, while the men’s team finished second at the first of two rodeos hosted by Miles Community College over the weekend. It was a strong showing across the board for the Bulldogs, highlighted by all-around titles from Jeremy Kay on the men’s side and Tavy Leno for the women. “We’re super excited about the women’s team victory,” head coach JT Robbins said. “They’ve put themselves back in contention for the CFR. Very happy with what we did as a team overall.” The Bulldogs captured two event wins in the short go and three average titles, showcasing depth and consistency throughout the rodeo. Tynell McInenly led the way in breakaway roping, winning both the short go and the average. On the men’s side, Cooper Pavkov and Jake Deveraux secured a short go victory in team roping. Additional average winners included Cardell Laughery in saddle bronc and Gavin Knutson in bull riding. Kay turned in a standout performance in bareback and bull riding, placing first in the long go bull riding with a 76-point ride and finishing second in both rounds of bareback to take second in the average. Western’s dominance in breakaway roping was evident, placing four athletes in the top six of the short go. Alongside McInenly, Taylor Burgee, Kelsi Costello, and Leno all contributed key points. In saddle bronc, Laughery led a strong group effort with a first-place average finish, while teammates Randon Boyce and Chase Martin also placed in the top five. The Bulldogs also saw solid performances in goat tying, barrel racing, and team roping, with Leno adding a second-place finish in the average team roping alongside Clay Pendergrass. Montana Western returns to action this weekend in Miles City for the second rodeo hosted by Miles Community College.

The Beaverhead County Beavers used a five-run fourth inning Friday to pull away from the Polson Pirates for a 10-2 win at Ogren Park at Allegiance Field. Polson struck first in the second inning after an error brought in one run. The Beavers tied the game in the bottom of the third when Andrew Bartlome was hit by a pitch, bringing in a run. Beaverhead County broke the game open in the fourth, scoring five runs on five hits to take a 6-1 lead. Sawyer Tackett delivered the big hit of the inning, driving in two runs with a single on an 0-2 count. Logan Fox earned the win for the Beavers, allowing one hit and one unearned run over five innings. Fox struck out five and walked one. Levi Stonebraker came on in relief. The Beavers finished with 10 hits. Trenton Moreni and Tristan Alvarez each had two hits. Bartlome, Moreni and Jase Alvarez each drove in two runs. Moreni also stole two bases as Beaverhead County collected five stolen bases in the game. The Beavers also turned one double play defensively. Cody Haggard led Polson at the plate, going 1-for-1. Beaverhead County will be back in action Saturday on the road against Big Sky.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Tuesday, April 28th, 2026 at 7:00 P.M. ZONING COMMISSION Regular Meeting Agenda 1. Call To Order 2. Review and Approval of April 14th, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes 3. Director of Operations Report 4. Applications for Zoning Compliance Certificates for Review: CUP2025-003 Scheffel 423 S Pacific Street Garage 5. Discuss/Approve Changes to Title 17.48 - Parking Due to HB 492 6. Discuss/Approve Changes to Title 17.60 – Residential Districts Due to HB 492 7. Review Recommendation from the Board of Adjustments to Amenda Title 17.12.100(D) and Appendix 1 8. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Zoning Commission 9. Adjournment PLEASE NOTE: A 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. zoning Commission Members: Joleen Schultz, Mike Brumbaugh, Mike Watson, Kevin Boileau

First responders from Lima were called out Friday morning to a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 15 near mile marker 9, as whiteout conditions made travel hazardous. According to initial reports, a gray pickup truck glanced off a camper being towed by another vehicle before rear-ending a semi-truck. The semi-truck driver did not remain on scene and continued traveling. The camper sustained moderate damage, while the pickup truck received significant damage. Injuries were reported as minor, and no medical transport was required.

The Dillon Public Library has released its upcoming lineup of programs and community events, highlighting educational opportunities, student achievements, and family-focused activities throughout late April and early May. Library staff will be featured at the University of Montana Western on Friday, April 24, as two librarians present academic work as part of their college studies. Beatrice Penn will debut her thesis presentation “Gush,” with an opening reception scheduled from 5 to 7 p.m. The exhibit will remain open April 24 through May 6, with viewing hours from 9 to 11 a.m. and 1 to 3 p.m. Leah Hartman will also present during the university’s Research Symposium, showcasing her internship research in a poster session from 7 to 8 p.m. at the Swysgood Technology Center Great Room. Hartman is set to graduate in May. The following day, Saturday, April 25, the community is invited to the Spring Fling & Bling Arts and Craft Fair at the Montana National Guard Armory Dillon from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The event will feature vendors, handmade goods, food, and a library-hosted book sale offering books for $1 each or $10 per box. Attendees can also take advantage of knife sharpening services by Hollowtail and enjoy lunch options including Indian tacos. Admission is free, with door prizes available for both adults and children. The library will also host a two-part parenting course led by Melissa Winger on April 21 and April 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The sessions focus on understanding how emotional patterns and coping skills are passed through families, while offering practical tools to help parents better manage stress and support their children’s emotional development. Looking ahead, the annual Japanese Festival has expanded into an International Festival, scheduled for May 1. Organized in partnership with University of Montana Western students, the library, and local businesses, the event will feature cultural displays, crafts, and an international food luncheon. Additional details are expected to be announced soon. On Saturday, May 2, the library will host Heidi Gibson for a presentation titled “Strengthening Families with Children with Disabilities” as part of a Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect Conference. The session will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and will focus on practical strategies for supporting families, understanding the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and highlighting resources available through Parent Training and Information Centers. For more information on any upcoming programs, contact the Dillon Public Library at 683-4544.

The University of Montana Western has established the KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship in memory of Kimberly “KG” Giannone, honoring her commitment to environmental action, hard work, and science communication. Created by family and friends, the scholarship will provide four $1,000 awards annually to students pursuing degrees in Environmental Sustainability, Environmental Sciences, or Natural Resource Science. Beginning in the 2026–2027 academic year, one award will be given each year to an incoming freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior. Recipients may be eligible to renew the scholarship for up to four years. The scholarship recognizes students who are enrolled full-time, in good standing, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0, with preference given to those who embody Giannone’s spirit and perseverance in overcoming challenges. Giannone, a non-traditional student at Montana Western, was known for her determination and deep commitment to learning. She fully embraced the university’s experiential learning model, dedicating long hours to coursework and developing skills in writing, mathematics, and technical programs such as Excel, MATLAB, and ArcGIS Pro. Her hard work earned her a 4.0 GPA along with numerous awards and honors. Beyond the classroom, Giannone was passionate about understanding and sharing the natural world. A gifted storyteller and photographer, she focused on documenting the experiences of people and their connection to the land, including projects highlighting land stewardship in Southwest Montana. Her authenticity and enthusiasm left a lasting impact on those around her. The inaugural recipients of the KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship for the 2026–2027 academic year are: Donatella LaRusso, an incoming freshman from Pennsylvania, plans to study environmental sustainability with a focus on ecotourism. Her goal is to connect people to nature while supporting mental well-being and sustainable land stewardship.  Grady Nardinger and Tristian Von Bargen, both majoring in Environmental Sciences, are recognized for their leadership, academic dedication, and active involvement in campus and community life.  Carter Petre, a junior in Environmental Science, is honored for his strong work ethic, leadership in athletics, and commitment to natural resource management.  Madyson Currie, a senior in Environmental Sustainability, is recognized for her focus on water resources and her commitment to protecting and restoring freshwater ecosystems.  A public art exhibit honoring Giannone’s work will also be on display in Montana Western’s Fine Arts Gallery until May 6. Titled The Works of Kim Giannone, the exhibit features work from several series, including Sweat and Sagebrush, The Early Years, journals, and other draft prints. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00–11:00 a.m. and 12:00–3:00 p.m. Those interested in supporting the scholarship may contribute online at: https://tinyurl.com/DonateUMWestern For more information about the KG Environmental Sustainability Action Scholarship, Contact UMW Foundation Executive Director, Roxanne Engellant at Roxanne.Engellant@umwestern.edu.

MADISON COUNTY — First responders were called to a single-vehicle rollover crash Wednesday morning on Montana Highway 41 near Mile Marker 19. According to initial scanner traffic, the vehicle was reportedly traveling at a high rate of speed and passing other motorists before failing to negotiate a turn. The vehicle came to rest upside down in a nearby field. Early reports indicated the driver was out of the vehicle and walking around following the crash. Southwestern Montana News arrived on scene as a Life Flight helicopter was preparing to land. The highway was shut down for nearly an hour while crews secured the scene and airlifted the patient. The Montana Highway Patrol is reporting the crash involved injuries. No additional details have been released at this time. This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.

The Beaverhead County Beavers used a late surge to edge Columbus 6-5 on Tuesday, highlighted by a standout performance from Sawyer Tackett. Tackett went a perfect 4-for-4 at the plate, including a go-ahead solo home run in the top of the seventh inning. He also doubled twice and singled, accounting for four of the Beavers’ 12 hits. Beaverhead County struck first in the opening inning when Trenton Moreni singled to bring home a run. Columbus answered quickly, tying the game after Kolemen Gairrett was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded. The Cougars took the lead in the second inning on a sacrifice fly by Trystan Knight and added another run on an error to go up 3-1. The Beavers responded in the fifth, taking a 4-3 lead after Cohen Hartman singled, Moreni drove in a run on a groundout, and Jase Alvarez doubled home another. Columbus answered again in the bottom half, tying the game at four after Graycen Waltner was hit by a pitch. In the seventh, Tackett broke the tie with his solo shot to left field. Moreni followed with a sacrifice fly to add an insurance run, which proved to be the difference. Andrew Bartlome earned the win in relief, allowing one run on one hit over two innings while striking out two. Garrett Tackett started for Beaverhead County, striking out five over three innings. Will Hansen also saw time in relief. Moreni led the Beavers with three RBIs, while Hartman and Alvarez each recorded multiple hits. Columbus was led by Brick Johnston with two hits, while Waltner and Knight each drove in a run. The Cougars were aggressive on the bases, swiping five bags in the game. Beaverhead County will be back in action Friday when they travel to take on Polson.

The Beaverhead County Lady Beavers broke open a tight game with a big fifth inning and rode a 19-hit performance to a 17-9 win over Butte Central Catholic on Tuesday. Reese Jensen led the way at the plate, driving in four runs on three hits. She doubled in two runs in the sixth inning, singled home a run in the second, and added a sacrifice fly in the fifth. Butte Central struck first in the top of the opening inning, taking advantage of an error and an RBI single from Kodee Badovinac to go up 3-0. The Lady Beavers answered quickly in the bottom half, as Lilla Guiberson singled down the right field line and a passed ball helped bring in four runs to take a 4-3 lead. After Jensen extended the lead to 5-3 in the second, Butte Central regained control in the third inning, pushing across three runs to take a 6-5 advantage. Beaverhead County responded with its biggest inning of the game in the fifth, scoring six runs on six hits to take a 13-8 lead. Tymber Barnes delivered the key hit with a two-run triple as the Lady Beavers seized momentum for good. Barnes earned the win in the circle, allowing four runs — none earned — over 4⅔ innings while striking out eight. Mya Creighton came on in relief to help secure the victory. The Lady Beavers’ offense stayed hot throughout, piling up 19 hits. Jensen, Guiberson, and Creighton each recorded three hits, while Ashlyn Burk, Kenndyl Meine, Bridget Lovaas, and Kaitlyn Konen all added multiple-hit performances. Butte Central finished with 11 hits, led by Kodee Badovinac with three hits. Kenzie McQueary added two RBIs, and Braelynn Schelin chipped in two hits. Beaverhead County returns to action Saturday when they host Corvallis.

DILLON — Cemetery staff will begin removing certain decorations starting Monday, May 4, as part of routine lawn care and maintenance. Items that interfere with mowing or upkeep — including decorations placed in or directly on the ground — will be removed. Staff will also clear decorations that are considered deteriorated. Any items collected during the cleanup will be held for at least 30 days, giving owners an opportunity to retrieve them. For questions regarding decoration regulations, contact Logun at (406) 660-4246.

DILLON — The Dillon Public Library has released its upcoming schedule of programs and events, offering a mix of educational opportunities, family activities, and community gatherings through early May. Two-part parenting course begins April 21 Melissa Winger will lead a two-part course on April 21 and April 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., focusing on how emotional patterns and coping skills are passed through families. The course is designed to help parents recognize their own emotional habits, better understand family dynamics, and develop healthier ways to respond to stress while supporting their children’s emotional growth. Spring Fling and Bling set for April 25 The library’s annual Spring Fling and Bling will take place April 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the National Guard Armory. The event will feature vendors offering arts, crafts, baked goods, and yard sale items. Adults will have a chance to win door prizes, while children are guaranteed a prize. Lunch will be available for purchase, along with the library’s popular large-scale book sale. Those interested in reserving a vendor table can call 683-4544 for more information. International Festival coming May 1 The former Japanese Festival has expanded into an International Festival, scheduled for May 1. The event is organized by students from the University of Montana Western in partnership with the library and local businesses. Attendees can expect cultural displays, crafts, and a luncheon featuring international foods. Additional details are expected to be released soon. Family support presentation May 2 On May 2 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Heidi Gibson will present “Strengthening Families with Children with Disabilities” at the library as part of a Prevent Child Abuse and Neglect Conference. The session will focus on providing practical tools for those working with families and schools, including a deeper understanding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the role of Parent Training and Information Centers in supporting families and improving outcomes for children. For more information on any of these programs, contact the Dillon Public Library directly.

HELENA — The Montana Western men’s and women’s track and field teams each finished fourth at the Trudnowski Open on Saturday, highlighted by four event wins on the men’s side and a number of personal-best performances. “It was a good day overall for us,” head coach Taylor Grove said. “We had a lot of season and personal bests as well as some event wins which was great to see at this point in the season.” Leading the way on the track, Brody Henry captured the men’s 800 meters with a time of 1:59.98. Tyler Raine delivered a standout performance, winning both the 110-meter hurdles (15.51) and 400-meter hurdles (57.82). In the field events, Stanley Stremick topped the podium in the long jump with a leap of 6.36 meters and added a third-place finish in the high jump with a personal-best 1.78 meters. Luke Crossley added a strong showing in the distance events, placing fourth in the 10,000 meters while setting a personal and school record with a time of 32:28.92. On the women’s side, Justene Santi recorded a podium finish in the 400-meter hurdles, placing third in 1:16.16. Jocelyn Seefried added a fourth-place finish in the 100 meters with a time of 14.15. The Bulldogs also saw contributions across multiple events. The men’s 4x400 relay team of Michael Reistroffer, Henry, Tristan Von Bargen, and Bridger Wheeler placed third with a time of 3:44.77. In the throws, Layne Cooney finished fifth in the discus and set a school record in the javelin with a throw of 37.99 meters. Cassie Green led the women in the shot put with a sixth-place finish and a personal-best throw of 11.00 meters. Looking ahead Montana Western will travel to Missoula next weekend to compete in the Montana Open on April 25, the final meet before the Frontier Conference Outdoor Championships.

HAVRE — The University of Montana Western men’s rodeo team turned in a strong weekend performance, claiming the team title at the MSU-Northern rodeo, while the Bulldog women finished fourth. “We’re really excited about the men’s team performance and how many individuals stepped up to improve their chances in the region race,” head coach JT Robbins said. “Also, it was good to see some of the women’s team show up and compete well.” Montana Western’s men were powered by standout efforts across multiple events, including four wins in the short go and two average titles. Coy Montgomery (bareback) and Gavin Knutson (bull riding) each swept their events, winning both the short go and the overall average. On the women’s side, Josie Robbins claimed the short go title in goat tying with a 6.3-second run, while Cade Costello earned the short go win in saddle bronc with an 83-point ride. Strong showings across the board Montgomery set the tone early, placing second in the long go before winning the short go with a 78 to secure the average title. Teammate Jeremy Kay followed closely, finishing second overall. In bull riding, Knutson posted matching 84-point rides in both rounds to take the win and the average title, earning key points for the Bulldogs. Montana Western also saw solid contributions in several events: Cardell Laughery placed second in the saddle bronc average after finishing runner-up in the short go. Cooper Pavkov took third overall in steer wrestling with a combined time of 10.2 seconds. Teagen Arnold finished third overall in tie-down roping. Pavkov and Jake Deveraux added a fifth-place finish in team roping. For the women, Teely Bott and Kaylee Kesl combined for 40 points in barrel racing, finishing fourth and sixth overall, while Brylan Garrett added a sixth-place finish in breakaway roping. Looking ahead The Bulldogs will look to carry that momentum into next weekend, when they compete in back-to-back rodeos hosted by Miles Community College April 23–24 and April 25–26.