The Beaverhead County Beavers put together a complete performance Saturday, rolling past Stevensville 11-0 behind a strong offensive showing and dominant pitching. Beaverhead County jumped out early in the bottom of the first inning. Mya Creighton drove in the opening run with a single, Bridget Lovaas followed with a two-run double, and Ashlyn Burk added a two-run single to make it 5-0. The Beavers continued to build their lead in the second inning after Kaitlyn Konen tripled to center field and Lovaas added an RBI single, pushing the advantage to 7-0. A run-scoring single by Tymber Barnes in the third extended the lead to 8-0, as Beaverhead County stayed in control throughout. Barnes earned the win in the circle, allowing just one hit and no runs over 2⅓ innings while striking out three. Creighton was solid in relief, tossing 2⅔ scoreless innings without allowing a hit, striking out two and walking one. At the plate, the Beavers racked up 12 hits. Lovaas led the way with two RBIs while going 2-for-3. Reese Jensen, Kenndyl Meine, Lovaas, and Creighton each collected two hits in the win. For Stevensville, Addi Drye recorded the team’s lone hit, finishing 1-for-2. Beaverhead County will look to carry the momentum into Tuesday’s matchup against Butte Central Catholic.

The Beaverhead County Beavers couldn’t keep pace with Frenchtown on Friday, falling 9-3 after the Broncs used a strong middle innings push to take control. Beaverhead County struck first in the top of the third inning when Tymber Barnes launched a two-run home run to center field, giving the Beavers an early 2-0 lead. Frenchtown answered in the bottom half of the inning, tying the game on a groundout by Jezzy Palmer and an RBI single from Makenzie Brush. The Broncs then took the lead for good in the fourth, when Abbi Edwards delivered a sacrifice fly to make it 3-2. The Beavers added another run in the sixth inning on a solo home run by Bridget Lovaas, but Frenchtown continued to build its lead behind disciplined at-bats and aggressive baserunning. Dizzle Smith earned the win for the Broncs, allowing five hits and three runs over seven innings while striking out nine and walking three. Mya Creighton took the loss in relief for Beaverhead County. Barnes started in the circle, giving up five runs — just one earned — over five innings while striking out three. At the plate, Barnes and Lovaas each collected two hits for the Beavers, with Barnes driving in two runs. Frenchtown was led by Makenzie Brush with two RBIs, while Aspen Courtney added two hits and swiped two bases. As a team, the Broncs drew eight walks and stole four bases, helping fuel the offensive effort. Beaverhead County will look to bounce back Saturday 04/18 at 1 PM when they host Stevensville.

The U.S. Forest Service has announced more than $248 million in Secure Rural Schools (SRS) payments for Fiscal Year 2025, with over $10 million allocated to counties in Montana’s First Congressional District — including $923,911.02 for Beaverhead County. The funding supports rural schools, road maintenance, and other essential local services in communities with significant federal land ownership. “This program is a commitment to communities like ours that live with the reality of federal land ownership every day,” said Ryan Zinke. “When Washington controls the land, it has a responsibility to help keep our roads maintained, our schools open, and our first responders supported.” Zinke also pointed to ongoing challenges facing timber-dependent communities, citing stalled timber sales and lost revenue streams. After the program lapsed in 2023, many counties were left uncertain about future funding. The payments follow passage of the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, sponsored by Zinke, which extends the program through Fiscal Year 2026 and restores previously lapsed funding. Montana County Funding (MT-01) Beaverhead County — $923,911.02 Deer Lodge County — $178,409.30 Flathead County — $973,971.32 Gallatin County — $188,457.00 Glacier County — $34,690.56 Granite County — $594,901.75 Lake County — $57,833.79 Lincoln County — $3,609,891.82 Madison County — $314,327.84 Mineral County — $857,047.13 Missoula County — $523,289.83 Pondera County — $72,007.32 Powell County — $630,469.84 Ravalli County — $611,524.64 Sanders County — $1,436,653.22 Silver Bow County — $124,603.93 Total (MT-01): $10,131,989.25 Background The Secure Rural Schools program was first enacted in 2000 to help offset declining revenues from timber harvests on federal lands. Funds are directed toward schools, infrastructure, and public safety in counties with large federal land holdings. After lapsing in 2023, the program was reauthorized through bipartisan legislation signed into law in December 2025, ensuring retroactive payments and restoring a level of financial certainty for rural communities.

Dillon, MT - In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the University of Montana Western’s P.A.T.H. (Peers Advocating Towards Health) and the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) invite the community to participate in Walk a Mile in Her Shoes, an annual event that raises awareness about sexual violence, gender-based violence, and the importance of supporting survivors. The event will take place on Thursday, April 30 at 3:30 p.m. at the Roe House on the UMW campus. Walk a Mile in Her Shoes is an international awareness event where participants walk in high heels to spark conversation and encourage action toward ending sexual violence. While the act is symbolic, the message is serious: preventing sexual violence requires community engagement, education, and ongoing advocacy. “This event brings our community together in a visible and meaningful way to support survivors and raise awareness about sexual violence,” said Bronwyn Comer, P.A.T.H. Sexual Assault and Rape Prevention Representative. “It’s about showing up, listening, and committing to creating change together.” Community members are encouraged to participate. High heels will be provided for those who wish to take on the challenge, and participants are also welcome to wear their own shoes and walk in solidarity. The event will feature opening remarks, speeches from advocates and survivors, and resource tables from local organizations supporting survivors and prevention efforts. Featured speaker Barbie Jenkins is a sexual assault survivor turned advocate dedicated to empowering victims and educating communities. Barbie serves as the Northwest Regional Director for Jane Doe No More Montana, is a member of the RAINN Speakers Bureau and the Montana Victim Impact Panel, where she speaks to incarcerated individuals, and has previously volunteered with the Lifeguard Group and her local YWCA. She is the author of Burying Jane Doe and is currently writing her second book, Beyond the Shadow, Reburying Jane Doe. The WRC provides essential support to survivors of sexual violence in Beaverhead and Madison counties. All services are free and confidential, designed to meet the unique needs of survivors and support them in healing on their own terms. For more information, please contact Bronwyn Comer at bronwyn@wrcmt.org or the WRC at (406) 683-6106.

Beaverhead Fire Dist #2 405 N. Idaho St. Dillon, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY April 21, 2026 5:00 PM   AGENDA:   I.                   Call to order II.                Approval of Minutes from 03-17-2026 meeting         Public Comment III.              Approval of Warrants         Public Comment IV.             Old Business                      Public Comment V.                New Business         Policies & Procedures  Public Comment VI.             Chiefs Report                      Public Comment VII.          Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda. VIII.       Adjournment

The Beaverhead County Beavers put together another big offensive performance Thursday, cruising past East Helena 17-2. Beaverhead County wasted little time getting started, scoring in the top of the first inning after Cohen Hartman singled to bring home a run. The Beavers added four more in the second, with Hartman drawing a hit-by-pitch with the bases loaded, Andrew Bartlome lifting a sacrifice fly, and Trenton Moreni ripping a two-run double. The Beavers kept the pressure on in the third inning, adding two more runs after Logan Fox singled to center field and East Helena committed an error. Beaverhead County broke the game open in the fifth inning, plating six runs on four hits. Bartlome delivered a two-run single, Jase Alvarez reached on a fielder’s choice that brought in a run, an East Helena error allowed two more runs to score, and Ben Peacock added an RBI single. Hartman earned the win on the mound for the Beavers, allowing five hits and two runs over five innings while striking out three and walking two. At the plate, Beaverhead County finished with 11 hits. Bartlome, Moreni and Hartman each collected two hits. Bartlome and Moreni also drove in three runs apiece. The Beavers added to their strong all-around performance by turning a double play. For East Helena, Hunter Sutton drove in a run while going 1-for-3, and Kash Walker led the Vigilantes with two hits in three at-bats. Beaverhead County will return to action Tuesday when the Beavers travel to take on the Columbus Cougars. If you want this turned into a shorter Facebook sports post too, I can do that.

The Dillon Volunteer Fire Department responded to a single-residence fire on Thatcher Lane around 7 p.m. Wednesday evening. According to the fire department successfully extinguished the blaze, and no injuries were reported. The cause of the fire remains unknown and is currently under investigation.

DILLON, Mont. - A familiar face is returning to the Bulldog sidelines as the University of Montana Western has named alumnus J.C. Isakson the next head coach of its men's basketball program. "I'm excited to welcome J.C. back to Montana Western to lead the men's basketball program," said Athletic Director Michael Feuling . "His head coaching experience, familiarity with the Frontier Conference and clear vision for the program - now and in the future - make him an outstanding fit to guide Bulldog basketball forward." Isakson spent the past eight years at the University of Providence, including five as an assistant with the men's and women's programs and the last three as head men's basketball coach. He also served two years as a graduate assistant at Montana State Billings and began his coaching career as an assistant at Montana Western from 2014 to 2016. "We are incredibly honored for the opportunity to return to Dillon and Montana Western and be part of the rich tradition of Bulldog basketball," Isakson said. "Words can't fully express the impact this community, university and athletic department have had on our lives, as both my wife and I are proud alumni. The privilege of serving as head men's basketball coach at Western is one we take very seriously, and we are committed to giving our all." "I would like to thank Michael Feuling and the search committee for entrusting us with this responsibility. I also owe tremendous gratitude to Coach Keller for giving me my first opportunity to be a Bulldog, to the men's basketball alumni who have helped build this program - especially my former teammates - and to Coach Pat Jensen for his leadership over the past three years. We are coming home." A 2013 graduate of the University of Montana Western with a bachelor's degree in business administration, Isakson was a student-athlete for the Bulldogs men's basketball program. During his playing career, he helped lead Montana Western to three NAIA National Tournament appearances and was part of the 2012 Frontier Conference regular-season co-championship team. He was also a two-time Frontier Conference All-Academic Team selection.

Commissioner of Higher Education Clayton Christian announced today that Dr. Estee Aiken has been selected as the next Chancellor of the University of Montana Western and, upon approval of the Board of Regents, will begin her duties on May 21. Dr. Aiken is no stranger to UMW, having advanced through various roles at the institution over the past 15 years. She joined the faculty at the university in 2011, earning the rank of tenured professor of Education. She then moved into the position of Dean of Strategic Initiatives, overseeing university accreditation, strategic planning, workforce efforts, and dual enrollment. Dr. Aiken is currently UMW’s Interim Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs, where she works to advance UMW’s academic mission. Dr. Aiken’s accomplished career includes K-12 teaching and training positions, K-12 and postsecondary administrative positions, and leadership roles on dozens of local, state, and national boards and task forces, including the Dillon School District Board of Trustees. Dr. Aiken’s scholarship has focused on gifted and talented education, early childhood education, and high-leverage practices in teacher preparation. Her distinguished career highlights include recognition as a Montana University System Teacher Scholar, directing and contributing to impactful grant-funded projects, and editing and co-authoring a comprehensive array of professional publications. “Dr. Aiken’s broad and extensive experience as a teacher, administrator, and researcher as well as her demonstrated dedication to education at all levels, including teacher preparation, makes her an ideal fit to lead UM Western,” said Commissioner Christian. “Her stewardship will ensure that UMW sustains and grows its reputation as a high-quality university offering innovative programming and a unique student experience within the Montana University System.” Founded in 1893 as the Montana State Normal School with a singular purpose of training educators, UMW has evolved into a dynamic institution that honors its original mission while expanding its academic landscape to include degree programs in STEM fields, equine studies, health and human performance, fine arts, psychology and more. Its immersive Experience One block scheduling model is the only one of its kind at a public institution in the country and is a proven asset to student recruitment, retention, and success. “It is my honor and privilege be the next Chancellor for UMW. I value the experiences and relationships that have led me to this opportunity, and I look forward to what lies ahead,” said Dr. Aiken. “I’m fortunate to have called UM Western and Dillon my home for 15 years now, and I am thrilled at the possibilities as Chancellor to invest further in this community, in this university, and especially in the students who are at its heart.” Dr. Aiken holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Macalester College, a Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary School from Colorado College, and a Doctorate of Education in Educational Studies from the University of Colorado.

University of Montana Western senior Cael Murgel has passed the LEAN Bronze Certification Exam, an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates proficiency in manufacturing efficiency and quality improvement practices. Murgel, a Business Administration major, achieved the certification through the Society of Manufacturing Engineers (SME). The LEAN Bronze Certification focuses on the practical application of lean principles, including improving workflows, reducing waste, and increasing productivity within operational settings. The certification is typically pursued by professionals with several years of experience in manufacturing or operations environments, making it a notable accomplishment for an undergraduate student. At its core, LEAN is a methodology centered on improving processes to achieve measurable results. The certification process includes a comprehensive exam on lean fundamentals and requires demonstrated understanding of tools such as 5S, value stream mapping, total productive maintenance, and standardized work. Murgel prepared for the certification exam by attending a six-week professional development course offered by the Montana Manufacturing Extension Center (MMEC), which is housed in the Montana State University Norm Asbjornson College of Engineering. MMEC Senior Business Advisor (and UM alumnus) Steve Dybdal led Murgel and local manufacturing professionals through the fundamentals of LEAN and how to apply them to enhance production operations. The course concludes with test preparation sessions, followed by the certification exam. Murgel credits his experience in the classroom as a key factor in pursuing the certification. “Brian England’s Operations Management class motivated me to pursue the LEAN Bronze Certification,” said Murgel. “I owe a lot to him for helping me build confidence and develop a real passion for operations management. His class showed me how valuable LEAN principles are and encouraged me to challenge myself by working toward the certification.” Preparing for the exam required significant focus and discipline, particularly within a condensed timeframe. Murgel participated in the MMEC course in addition to his classes at UMW. “The most challenging part of preparing for the certification was finding the time and discipline to sit down and fully absorb a large amount of material in a short period of time,” Murgel said. “Thankfully, the block schedule at Western helped me adapt to this style of learning and prepared me for a more rigorous course load.” Earning the certification marks an important milestone as Murgel prepares to enter the workforce. “Earning this certification is a big accomplishment for me,” he said. “It represents the effort I put into developing my knowledge of operations management and gives me confidence as I continue working toward a career in the field. I believe this opportunity has given me a valuable head start, and I look forward to applying what I’ve learned as I continue to grow professionally.” MMEC offers limited scholarships to Montana university students to attend this Operational Excellence training and prepare for the exam. For more information on this program, contact MMEC at 406-994-3812. To learn more about the Business Administration program and how Montana Western prepares students for careers in operations and management, visit umwestern.edu.

SOLID WASTE BOARD MEETING Monday, April 20, 2026 3:00 PM COURTHOUSE, COMMISSIONERS’ MEETING ROOM AGENDA Ø Establish a quorum Ø Review and Action on January 26 meeting minutes Ø Landfill Manager’s Report Ø Discussion & Action- Approve Engineer Contract Ø Discussion- Transfer Site Fine/Fees Ø Discussion- Clenera Land Lease Ø Discussion- Update from Dillon Disposal Re Madison County Ø Discussion & Action- Sharps Container (Public Health) Ø Discussion & Action- Bear Mitigation at Canister Sites Ø Discussion & Action- Junk Vehicle Gate   Ø Public Comment or other business Ø Next Meeting date – April 20, 2026 Ø Adjourn

DILLON —  Governor Greg Gianforte returned to Dillon this week to recognize two longtime leaders at the Montana Youth Challenge Academy, presenting them with the state’s Outstanding Service Award for their lasting impact on cadets across Montana. Speaking to a room filled with cadets, staff, and community members, Gianforte praised Michelle Nelon and Ben Stuart for their dedication to guiding young people through the academy and beyond. “When I came into office, I created the Outstanding Service Award to recognize state employees who go above and beyond,” Gianforte said. “Today, we’re here to recognize Michelle Nelon and Ben Stuart for their lasting impact on all of you and the many classes that have come through the Youth Challenge Academy.” Nelon, who has served for 20 years as a post-residential coordinator, was recognized for her leadership of the academy’s mentor program. The program supports cadets during the critical 12 months following graduation, helping them stay on track and transition into productive, healthy lives. Under Nelon’s leadership, the academy has consistently exceeded national averages for long-term placement. She has also helped build a strong statewide network of mentors and serves on a national training committee, representing Montana and contributing to program development across the country. “Michelle’s leadership, professionalism, and commitment to cadet success reflect the very best of public service,” Gianforte said. Stuart, a nearly three-decade fixture at the academy, was honored for his 27 years of service in multiple roles, including cadet instructor, team leader, academic counselor, and lead counselor. Known for his steady demeanor and dedication, Stuart has built lasting relationships with cadets, their families, and communities statewide. “As he approaches retirement next year, we recognize not only his years of service, but the legacy he leaves behind and the lives he has helped shape,” Gianforte said. The governor also addressed cadets directly, emphasizing that leadership is defined not by titles, but by character, discipline, and accountability. “Leadership is about how you carry yourself, how you treat others, and the choices you make when no one is watching,” he said. “Each of you has the potential to lead, to make a difference, and to build a strong future for yourself and our state.” Gianforte closed by thanking both honorees for their commitment to Montana’s next generation. “Montana is grateful for your service,” he said. “We are thankful for the lasting impact your work continues to have on these cadets and across our great state.”

Update scene has been cleared DILLON —  First responders are actively working a crash scene on Highway 91 North just before the Frying Pan Road turnoff. The accident involves a Ford F-150 pickup and a gray Nissan truck. Initial observations indicate the two vehicles may have collided. The Nissan rolled during the crash and is currently resting on its roof. Injuries have been reported, though the extent is not yet known. Motorists are advised to use caution when approaching the area and expect possible delays. Southwestern Montana News will provide updates as more information becomes available.

BUTTE — Sawyer Tackett delivered a standout performance at the plate and on the mound Wednesday, leading the Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers to a 14-7 win over Butte Central Catholic Varsity Maroons in Butte. Tackett went 4-for-5 on the day, including a solo home run to left field in the fifth inning. He added singles in the second, fourth, and sixth innings to pace a Beaverhead offense that finished with 13 hits. The Beavers wasted no time getting on the board in the top of the first inning. Trenton Moreni tripled to drive in two runs, and Kanin Engelhardt brought another home on a fielder’s choice to give Beaverhead an early lead. They continued to build momentum in the second inning. Tackett singled down the left field line, Cohen Hartman followed with a triple to center, and Andrew Bartlome added an RBI single—each plate appearance bringing in a run to extend the lead. Beaverhead added to its advantage in the fifth inning, scoring three runs on two hits. Tackett’s solo home run highlighted the frame, while Jase Alvarez contributed a two-run single. Tackett also earned the win on the mound, pitching three and two-thirds innings while allowing seven hits and seven runs (six earned). He struck out six and walked four. Logan Fox provided strong relief, tossing three and one-third innings of shutout baseball, allowing just one hit while striking out six. Moreni led the Beavers in RBIs with four, going 2-for-2 at the plate. Hartman and Levi Stonebraker each recorded multiple hits, and Beaverhead added pressure on the base paths with four stolen bases. For Butte Central, Colt Hassler, Kelton Berger, and Trapper Stajcar each collected two hits. Hassler and Gunnar O’Brien drove in two runs apiece. O’Brien also took the loss on the mound, allowing 10 runs (nine earned) over three and two-thirds innings. Beaverhead County will travel to face East Helena on Thursday.

BEAVERHEAD AMBULANCE SERVICES SPECIAL DISTRICT AGENDA Friday, APRIL 17, 2026 11:15 AM Beaverhead County Courthouse - Commissioners’ Room A. Call to Order B. a. Review and approve minutes of January 23, 2026, meeting b. Review and approve Treasurer’s Report C. Announcements D. Old Business a. Proposed amendments to the Amended Bylaws E. New Business a. Information on upcoming EMT Course proposed to start August 24 and continue into December b. Next meeting will be July 17, 2026, in the Beaverhead County courthouse. F. Public comment - Public comment on items of significant public interest not on the Agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Beaverhead Ambulance Services Special District Board.

9-1-1/Communications Board Meeting         Monday, April 20, 2026 11:00 a.m. Courthouse, Commissioners’ Room Dillon, MT 59725 AGENDA     Ø Call to Order   Ø Roll Call   Ø Action on Previous Meeting Minutes   Ø Old Business o   Budget Update o   Update on Recent Projects o   Technical Advisory Committee Report   Ø New Business   Ø Public Comment   Ø Next meeting date & time ~ July 20, 2026 at 11:00 a.m.   Ø Adjourn

AGENDA BEAVERHEAD COUNTY/CITY BOARD OF HEALTH City Hall Dillon, MT (Breakfast AT 8:30 A.M.) 9:00 a.m., Friday April 17, 2026   Call meeting to order ~ Establish Quorum 1)    Reorganization of Board 2)    Beaverhead County Tobacco Prevention & Be The Change 406 Coalition Update 3)    Public Health Update 4)    Barrett Hospital Update 5)    DES Update 6)    Sanitarian Report   DISCUSSION and/or ACTION ITEMS   A.   Old Business~ Approval of January Minutes B.   Discussion- Foundational Public Health Informational Sessions C.   Discussion & Action- Review and Approve Specimen Transport Plan D.   Public Discussion/Comments on Subjects Under BOH Jurisdiction Not on Agenda E.   New Business F.    Meeting Schedule~ Next meeting tentatively July 17, 2026 in Lima G.   Adjourn the Meeting

The University of Montana Western will host an open house on Saturday, May 2, from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Bender Center at Birch Creek. The open house offers the campus and surrounding community an opportunity to gather and celebrate the start of a new season at Birch Creek. Attendees will also get a first look at newly completed murals designed and painted by students in classes led by Professor Michael Barrett. The murals are the result of a collaborative effort between students in Global Visual Culture and 2D Fundamentals courses. Students in the Global Visual Culture course developed concepts inspired by the landscape, its inhabitants, and the history of the area. Those ideas were then brought to life by 2D Fundamentals students as large-scale, colorful murals that reflect both detailed observation and creative interpretation. Student artists will be available from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. to discuss their work, share insight into the creative process, and answer questions about the mural project. In addition to the murals, visitors will notice newly installed window coverings throughout the Bender Center. These were hand-sewn by students in the 2D Fundamentals course and reflect the theme of nostalgia, drawing on experiences connected to camps, cabins, and the outdoors. The red-and-white checkered pattern is intended to evoke familiar images of picnic blankets and summer gatherings. Originally constructed in 1935 as a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp, the Birch Creek Center has a long history tied to outdoor education and community engagement. Since 1985, the University of Montana Western has operated the Bender Center, which now serves as a rustic setting for educational programs, retreats, and experiential learning opportunities. The Birch Creek Center is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Dillon. Visitors can take Apex Exit 74 and follow the Birch Creek gravel road for 7.5 miles to the Education Center turnoff. Parking may be required at the turnoff depending on road conditions, with a short walk into the Center. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, please contact Estee Aiken at estee.aiken@umwestern.edu . To learn more about the Birch Creek Center, visit umwestern.edu/info/birch-creek-center .