The Fish and Wildlife Commission will hold a public hearing on the proposed repeal of two ARM rules pertaining to the rest rotation and walk/wade sections of the Madison River. The hearing will be held Dec. 15 at 10 a.m. via Zoom. There will be no in-person hearing. The Madison River Work Group, which is charged with making recommendations on the Madison River recreation management rules to the commission, unanimously decided to recommend the commission repeal ARM 12.11.6702 and 12.11.6706. The group’s rationale for the recommended repeal was based on lack of support for either rule. The commission voted to propose the repeal of the rules during its October meeting. The deadline for public comment on the repeals is Dec. 17. Comments can be sent mailed to: Madison River Comments, FWP, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT, 59620-0701. Comments can also be emailed to madisonrivercom@mt.gov . To join the hearing, call 1-206-337-9723 and enter the meeting ID – 871 6059 9966, and password – 194749. For more information, visit the public notice page on the FWP website.

Governor Greg Gianforte today announced the state of Montana is petitioning the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) to delist grizzly bears in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE) in northwest Montana. The petition to delist clearly outlines that NCDE grizzly bears are within a distinct population, have far surpassed population recovery goals and that Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has the structure in place to successfully take over full management of this iconic native species. “Due to the work and sacrifice of many Montanans over decades, Montana has been successful in recovering grizzly bears in the NCDE,” Gov. Gianforte said. “With the grizzly bear recovered, keeping the species listed under the Endangered Species Act will only continue to impact communities, farmers and ranchers, and recreationists around the state. It also limits Montana’s options when it comes to dealing with conflict bears.” “We’ve achieved the goals set for us. It’s time for the state to take over management,” the governor said. Grizzly bears were listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act in 1975. At the time the population of grizzly bears in the lower 48 was estimated to be in the hundreds. Today the population in the NCDE alone is estimated at approximately 1,100 bears. In accordance with the NCDE Conservation Strategy and administrative rule, FWP is committed to keeping a viable and healthy population. In 2018, the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission approved a population objective for the ecosystem to maintain a population size above 800 bears with at least 90 percent certainty. Effectively, this would mean managing for a population of approximately 1,000 grizzly bears. As grizzly bear numbers have grown, their distribution has expanded, particularly in the prairie areas east of the Rocky Mountain Front, where they haven’t been in more than a century. This expansion has led to increased conflicts with communities, livestock producers and landowners. “We worked on grizzly bear recovery for decades. We were successful and switched to a focus on conflict management years ago,” FWP director Hank Worsech said. “We’ve shown the ability to manage bears, protect their habitat and population numbers. It’s time for us to have full authority for grizzly bears in Montana.” Beyond seeking to delist grizzly bears in the NCDE, the petition also asks the FWS to designate the NCDE bears as a distinct population segment (DPS.) In doing so, the petition also seeks to expand the DPS well into eastern Montana. This would allow for the delisting of grizzly bears across most of the northern half of the state. Under federal rules, the FWS has 90 days for their initial response to Montana’s petition. Upon delisting, state laws and administrative rules, already in place, become the primary regulatory and legal mechanisms guiding management. FWP monitors grizzly bears in the NCDE with the best available science and a team of dedicated specialists. FWP established a monitoring program in 2004 that tracks the survival and reproductive rates of radio-marked grizzly bears throughout the ecosystem. Every known or probable grizzly bear mortality is documented. This long-term program works in cooperation with other state, federal, and tribal agencies. Although grizzly bears in the lower 48 states have remained under the jurisdiction of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, much of the day-to-day management is done by FWP’s specialists who work with landowners and the general public to address conflicts and increase safety and education in bear country.

The Lima Volunteer Fire Department responded to a chimney fire in Monida late Monday night (12/06/2021). With help from neighbors Casey Smith, Cecile Skaggs, along with a Beaverhead County Sheriff's Deputy and Idaho's Clark County deputy, working together they were able to help keep the fire from spreading until the fire department arrived. Once on scene Lima Fire was able to gain access to the attic and distinguish the fire keeping damage to a minimum.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is looking at a handful of new strategies to better manage elk populations and improve quality hunting opportunities on public lands. FWP will propose these strategies to the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission at its Dec. 14 meeting. In recent years, Montana has seen a dramatic increase in elk populations in many hunting districts around the state. Currently, 14 hunting districts are at least 200 percent above population objectives. Data also show an overcrowding of elk populations on private land, limiting opportunities for public land hunters. “What we know is the status quo isn’t working,” said FWP Director Hank Worsech. “So, we’re going to propose a few new strategies we think can finally help us make progress in addressing the problem, both for hunters and for landowners.” Required by law to achieve population objectives set by the Fish and Wildlife Commission, FWP proposes targeted provisions to fulfill the statutory requirement of managing to population objective, address the increasing impacts of high elk populations on Montana farmers and ranchers, and improve quality opportunities for hunters. Those numerical objectives are identified in the current elk management plan. The targeted provisions for 14 hunting districts with limited permits and over population objectives are: In all 14 hunting districts, FWP proposes to remove some or all of the limited either-sex permits. In eight of those hunting districts, where problems with distribution, population and access tend to be most acute, FWP is proposing to retain the limited either-sex permits but make them valid only on public land. In most of these districts, the permit quotas are proposed to be half of the 2021 quotas. The hunting districts proposed for this structure are: 411, 417, 426, 535 (newly proposed for 2022), 590, 702, 704 and 705. The proposal would also make a general elk license valid for either-sex elk only on private land in these eight districts. This would include the general archery and firearm seasons as well as the muzzleloader season. Early and late antlerless seasons would remain the same, and only be for antlerless elk in the districts in which they occur. All of FWP’s proposed hunting regulations are undergoing review as part of the agency’s regular, biennial season-setting process, and are subject to commission approval. If the commission approves the proposals, there will be a 30-day public comment opportunity. “We can’t keep doing the same thing over and over again and expect a different result. We have to try something different. This proposal is a new strategy we can implement for two years and see if it has the desired effect – more elk harvest, better elk availability on public lands, fewer landowner conflicts, and elk at population objective,” Worsech said. “In some hunting districts, we have broad public tolerance or outright support for limited permits, and we want to keep those in place.” By having different season types in multiple areas with similar circumstances – over population elk herds and limited either-sex permits – FWP will be able to analyze which strategy is most effective at decreasing elk numbers and moving more on to public land. In addition to this specific season proposal, a new elk plan is being developed with the help of guiding principles identified by an external working group and endorsed by the commission. The process for this new plan will include extensive public commenting opportunities. The Private Land/Public Wildlife council will also review all FWP access programs and revisit elk hunting access agreements, which provide access to private land in exchange for elk licenses and permits for the landowner. Worsech is also looking to pull together an additional citizen group to explore more ways to address issues around hunter access to private land and landowner preferences. The goal for the group will be to provide tangible recommendations FWP and the commission can implement. Also, with the availability of more federal Pittman-Robertson funds, FWP is exploring a three-fold increase of funding for its access programs. “It’s time for people to bring their best ideas forward, and I want to hear from them,” Worsech said. “Don’t just tell us what you don’t like. I want to hear your ideas to improve the situation. I hope we can all see and realize a better day for landowners, hunters and the elk resource itself.”

The Montana Department of Commerce announced today more than $25 million in federal funding has been allocated to 14 Montana communities to rehabilitate, preserve, or construct more than 945 affordable rental homes. “As Montana’s economy continues to thrive, it is crucial that our workers and their families have a place to call home," Commerce Director Scott Osterman said. “With multiple tools available to the state, we will continue to work alongside our housing partners to provide quality, affordable homes for our friends and neighbors across Montana.” In October, the Montana Board of Housing (MBOH) allocated $22.6 million in federal housing tax credits to four affordable rental properties , leaving additional leftover credits that were not allocated. On November 15, the Board allocated those additional housing tax credits to: Big Sky: RiverView Apartments will receive $6,491,250 of Housing Tax Credits to build 25 new homes for families and individuals. Lewistown: Crowley Flats will receive $220,000 of Housing Tax Credits to build 16 new homes for families and individuals. “Big Sky Community Housing Trust is thrilled to be the recipient of the 2021 Low Income Housing Tax Credit Award for our RiverView Apartments project. We appreciate the confidence expressed by MBOH in making this award, which will help Big Sky solve its urgent and critical shortage of workforce housing,” said Laura Seyfang, Executive Director of the Big Sky Community Housing Trust. In addition, Commerce’s Montana Housing recently allocated Housing Trust Fund (HTF) grant funding, HOME Investment Partnerships Program grant funding, and American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) State Fiscal Recovery gap financing funding to: Anaconda: Hearthstone Apartments will receive $500,000 of HTF funding to rehabilitate and preserve 109 existing homes for seniors. Billings: Jackson Court will receive $889,704 of HOME funding to build 38 new homes for families and individuals. Billings: Montana Rescue Mission will receive $2,000,000 of ARPA gap financing to build 29 new homes for families and individuals. Billings: Tapestry Apartments will receive $650,000 of HOME funding to build 26 new homes for families and individuals. Crow Agency: Apsaalooke Nation Housing Authority will receive $1,580,483 of ARPA gap financing to rehabilitate and preserve 43 existing homes for families and individuals. Great Falls: Baatz Apartments will receive $1,700,000 of HOME and HTF funding to develop 25 new permanent supportive homes in an existing downtown building. Havre: Highland Manor will receive of $541,696 of HTF funding and $859,517 of ARPA gap financing to rehabilitate and preserve 32 existing homes for families and individuals. Havre: Oakwood Village will receive of $250,000 of HTF funding to rehabilitate and preserve 60 existing homes for families and individuals. Helena: Fire Tower Apartments will receive of $400,000 of HTF funding to rehabilitate and preserve 44 existing homes for seniors and those with disabilities. Joliet and Laurel: Spruce Grove will receive $1,550,000 of ARPA gap financing to rehabilitate and preserve 62 existing homes for seniors. Laurel: Laurel Depot will receive $2,000,000 of ARPA gap financing to build 24 new homes for families and individuals. Lewistown: Crowley Flats will receive $380,000 of HOME funding to build 16 homes in an existing downtown building for families and individuals. Livingston: Bluebunch Flats will receive $520,000 of ARPA gap financing to complete 37 new homes for families and individuals. Missoula: Trinity Apartments will receive $2,000,000 of ARPA gap financing to build 202 new homes for families and individuals. Missoula: Villagio Apartments will receive $2,000,000 of ARPA gap financing to build 200 new homes for families and individuals. Ronan: Meadowlark Apartments will receive $210,000 of ARPA gap financing to complete 24 new homes for families and individuals. Whitefish: Alpenglow Apartments will receive $280,000 of ARPA gap financing to complete 38 new homes for families and individuals. “Homeword and NeighborWorks Great Falls are thrilled to have received the Housing Trust Fund and HOME Investment Partnerships Program grant awards. The grant dollars will make this project possible because we’re providing permanent supportive homes for people experiencing homelessness,” said Andrea Davis, Homeword’s Executive Director. Each year, the Montana Department of Commerce receives and administers $6 million of federal funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for HTF and HOME Investment Partnerships Program grants to create affordable homes in Montana. Federal Housing Tax Credits are available under Section 42 of the Internal Revenue Code. Each fall, the Montana Board of Housing votes on the final allocation of Montana’s housing tax credits for the construction or preservation of affordable homes. In addition, Montana Housing recently set aside $15,000,000 of ARPA funding to provide critical gap financing for affordable home projects experiencing significant development cost increases due to COVID-19 related worker shortages, supply chain disruptions, and price escalations in key building materials like lumber. The funds were recommended for this use by the ARPA Economic Transformation and Stabilization, and Workforce Development Advisory Commission established under House Bill 632; the final allocation was approved by Governor Gianforte.

(Press Release Montana Western) A strong first half for the Montana Western Bulldogs (9-5, 0-2) wasn't enough to push them past No. 4 Carroll College Saints (12-0, 2-0), 70-60. Montana Western led the Saints for the entire first half, extending the lead to a game-high 11 points with one minute left in the first. The Bulldogs had an incredible 20 minutes of play; they shot 55 percent from the 3-point line and 52 percent from the field. The Saints started the second half with a 15 to zero run; the Bulldogs first score of the second half was after seven minutes of play. Montana Western was able to cut the Saints' lead to two points with three minutes left, but four consecutive offensive rebounds (a one minute and 28 second possession) under the Saints' basket left the Bulldogs with no time to recover. "[Our] guys played really hard and together for about 35 minutes…the problem is that we have to play a full 40 minutes to play at this level," coach Mike Larsen said. "[I am] very proud of this team and how they are battling day in and day out. We will keep getting better and be ready next time." Inside the Box Score The Saints only made three 3-pointers; the Bulldogs made nine. Carroll had 14 offensive boards, four of which were in one possession. Jamal Stephenson scored 22 points and dished out five assists for the Bulldogs. Colter Miller , Jalen Hodges , Tanner Haverfield , and Jamal Stephenson each grabbed four rebounds for Montana Western. Jovan Sljivancanin led the Saints with 26 points and 16 rebounds.

(Press release Montana Western) The Montana Western Bulldogs (7-2, 1-1) dropped their first meeting with No. 5 Carroll College Saints (11-2, 2-0), 60-49. The Saints outscored the Bulldogs in the first quarter by just two points, 14-12. In the second, the teams matched field goals, with five each, and each scored two buckets apiece from the arc—until the final second of the half when Carroll's Sienna Swannack hit an off-balance 3-pointer. With a three-point lead at the beginning of the third quarter (29-26), Carroll capitalized on their momentum throughout the rest of the game, attacking the Bulldogs with a strong inside-out game. The Saints shot 54 percent from the field in the third (7-13), while the Bulldogs only matched the Saints with five shots (5-13) from the field. The Bulldogs trailed by seven points to start the fourth quarter, 45-38. Montana Western struggled to hold Carroll in the paint—Saints' forward Jamie Pickens scored six of her 18 points in the fourth. "Carroll is really good and has a variety of kids that are excellent individual defenders," coach Woolley said. They took us out of our offense and I didn't have a very good plan to attack them on the offensive end." Inside the Box Score Both teams were seven of 10 from the foul line. The Saints had twice as many rebounds as the Bulldogs, 48 and 24, respectively. Shainy Mack led the Bulldogs with 13 points. Brynley Fitzgerald grabbed six rebounds for Montana Western. Lilly Gopher and Mesa King each had two assists for the Bulldogs. Jamie Pickens led the Saints with a double-double, 18 points and 12 rebounds.

(Frontier Conference Press Release) Mike Richardson, longtime Frontier Conference basketball and football official will be honored Saturday, Dec. 4, 2021 in Dillon, Mont. prior to the Montana Western-Carroll College men’s basketball game. Dillon, Mont. native Richardson will be presented the Frontier Conference Distinguished Service Award by conference commissioner Kent Paulson and Montana Western Chancellor Mike Reid. The Frontier Conference periodically recognizes individuals who have positively impacted the well-being of the conference through their service. Individuals are nominated for this award by members of the Frontier Conference and are voted upon by the Conference Athletic Directors, with approval for the recognition being sent onto the Council of Presidents. Richardson’s career as an official began 38 years ago. He credits Pete Waylett, Joe Morstein and Rick Kuntz as mentors that successfully guided him into his career in basketball officiating. Richardson said he learned from the best. Richardson’s not sure about his very first game officiated but says it was probably a freshmen game at Beaverhead County High School. He remembers his first Frontier Conference basketball game vividly. It was Eastern Montana College vs Western Montana College in Dillon, Mont. Richardson said he was nervous with butterflies the size of elephants. It didn’t help that it was a huge rivalry game and that the Straugh Gymnasium was packed to the rafters. In 1988, the basketball officials worked in two-man crews. His partner for his first Frontier Conference men’s basketball game was Pete Waylett. Richardson said having Pete as his partner was just what he needed. Waylett settled the rookie Richardson down and it wasn’t long before his first Frontier Conference game was over. In his 38-year career, between high school and college, football and basketball games, Richardson estimates he has officiated roughly 150 games a year. His high school resume includes varsity, junior varsity and freshman games. In college, he has officiated Frontier Conference football, and men and women’s basketball games. He was also in the pool of football and basketball officials for the Scenic West Athletic Conference. Then, add in the many invitational basketball tournaments Richardson has worked as well. When you put the pencil to the paper, that’s roughly 150 games a year for 38 years. Of those 150 games a year, roughly 50 of those games were Frontier Conference games. Final tally (roughly), 5,700 career games for Richardson, and of that, 1,900 Frontier Conference games. Richardson has retired as a Frontier Conference basketball official but will continue to officiate Frontier Conference football games and stay in the local official’s pool for high school basketball and football.

Dillon Volunteer Fire Department responded to 19 calls during the month of November. 11-1 Smoke alarm W Center St 11-1 Smoke alarm S Idaho St 11-2 MVA Hwy 41 MM 15 11-4 Smoke alarm E Bannack St 11-5 Gas odor Southside Blvd 11-9 Gas odor Hwy 91 S 11-9 Power pole arcing Hwy 91 S 11-11 MVA I-15 MM 60 11-13 Structure fire Hwy 91 N 11-19 MVA Hwy 41 11-19 Wildland fire Dice Creek area 11-23 MVA I-15 MM62 11-24 MVA Atlantic & Glendale St 11-24 Gas odor Top Rank Ln 11-25 Structure fire (false alarm) Hwy 41 11-26 Grass fire Eliason Ln 11-27 Structure fire Hwy 91 N 11-28 MVA (Mutual Aid) Hwy 43 11-30 Traffic assist to Law Enforcement Hwy 41 MM 10 On November 13th we hosted a propane training with Grasshopper Fire, Lima Fire & Twin Bridges Fire at the Search & Rescue building. Madison River Propane Emergency Responder Training provided the curriculum & lead us in the live fire exercises. Then on the 29th Craig Jeppson with the MSU Fire Services Training School instructed us on First Due arrival reports as well as initial scene size up.

December 8, 2021 County Treasurer Building Tom Welch Room 11:00 am 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Secretary’s Report/ Mary Rouse a. Approve Minutes from May 12, 2021 3. Old Business a. Cornell Bid Review/ Update 4. New Business a. Referendum Review - Board Discussion - Public Comment 5. Other Items for Discussion a. Board Openings/ May 2022 b. ?? 6. Public Comment Next Meeting: January 12, 2022

The Montana Department of Commerce announced that 16 projects in 13 Montana communities have been awarded more than $9.4 million in federal grant funding for activities that will help Montana counties, cities, and towns prevent, prepare for, and respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. “These grants will help Montana communities respond to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and will ensure they are better situated for future adverse events,” Commerce Director Scott Osterman said. “Additionally, this funding will help increase local resiliency through diverse projects, like the expansion of a food bank to address the increased need for services, and the acquisition of a hotel for non-congregate shelter to reduce the spread of the virus," Osterman added. The Montana Department of Commerce was allocated this one-time Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding through the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. In accordance with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines for the CDBG Program, all of the allocated projects will benefit lower to middle wage earning Montanans with incomes that are at or below 80 percent of the Area Median Income (AMI). The following projects will receive CDBG CARES (CDBG-CV) funding: Big Horn County: $1,000,000 to install residential well and septic systems in homes throughout the Crow Reservation. Big Horn County: $625,000 to purchase an electronic health record system for the Big Horn County Hospital Association. Butte-Silver Bow: $700,000 to renovate the Butte Rescue Mission, a homeless shelter. Gallatin County: $430,000 to purchase a hotel for non-congregate shelter in partnership with Human Resource Development Council District IX. Hamilton: $1,065,500 to renovate and expand the Supporters of Abuse Free Environments (SAFE), a domestic violence shelter. Helena: $607,187 for HVAC improvements and renovations at the YWCA. Lewis and Clark County: $1,250,000 to expand Florence Crittenton’s transitional living and childcare services. Lincoln County: $24,972 for HVAC improvements at the Trego Community Hall. McCone County: $550,000 for HVAC improvements at the McCone County Health Center. Missoula County: $256,276 to expand food distribution sites in partnership with the Missoula Food Bank and Community Center. Missoula: $850,000 to create a resident owned community in partnership with NeighborWorks Montana. Red Lodge: $451,240 to construct new affordable rental units in partnership with the Red Lodge Area Community Foundation. Shelby: $350,000 to construct new affordable housing units. Superior: $259,310 to install an HVAC system, elevator, and siding at the District XI Human Resource Council. Wolf Point: $550,000 to construct two single-family affordable homes. Yellowstone County: $500,000 to rehabilitate the Billings Food Bank. “Combined with the challenges presented by the growing housing crisis, COVID-19 has had a particularly devastating impact on those experiencing domestic or sexual violence,” said Stacey Umhey, Executive Director of SAFE. “The Bitterroot Valley is currently experiencing a dire need for available, affordable housing and safe refuge for families in crisis. We're so grateful for this award and the opportunity to expand our emergency shelter capacity. This expansion will ensure that members our community will have access to safe, immediate shelter when fleeing domestic and sexual violence,” Umhey added. “This grant will, literally, put a roof over our heads so the project can then be worked on during the winter months. Thank you, thank you, thank you,” said Sheryle Shandy, Executive Director of the Billings Food Bank. All Montana counties, cities, and towns were eligible for CDBG-CV funding. Nonprofits, tribes, and other entities were not eligible to directly apply for CDBG-CV funding, but could in partnership with an eligible local government. For more information, visit COMDEV.MT.GOV.

The Beaverhead Search and Rescue held its monthly meeting on December 1, 2021. The meeting was called to order by Commander Lawrence Morriroe at 7:02. There were 33 members in attendance. After attendance and treasurer’s report, training officer, Nate Freeman, informed the unit of the various ongoing and new training opportunities available for the membership. The first training is an ongoing training which happens on Wednesday nights and is teaching “Low Angle and High Angle” rope rescue techniques. Up and coming trainings include: a Search Manager Class which trains individuals how to manage and run search/rescue incidents, Wilderness First Aid that teaches members how to take care of injured individuals out on the mountain in a rescue situation, Avalanche Training. The avalanche course teaches individuals how to approach an avalanche area, how to search an avalanche for victims and how to use proper equipment in these situations. The next order of business was the long awaited fish derby. Derby chairperson, Tara Remely, reminded everyone the annual derby will be held on Sunday, January 16, 2022. It will have the same format as past derbies and the same amount of door prizes to give away as well as the same prize money for the largest trout and ling. The kid’s derby will also be going on with prize money for the biggest trout and ling. Tickets are available at various businesses around town and may be purchased from S&R members. S&R members will be canvasing the county for door prizes to be given away on the day of the derby. Your generous support of this endeavor every year is greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance for your generosity; it helps immensely with the success of our annual ice derby. Other things coming up for the unit: A work party to clean and get rid of equipment that is no longer working/used and just taking up valuable space. Nominations for officers for the year 2022 were opened this month and the election of those officers will take place at the January meeting. Sometime in the next couple of months the unit will have its annual appreciation dinner which is to thank spouses for putting up with the early morning call outs and to recognize the Member of the Year and Rookie of the Year. Commander Morrisroe informed the unit that there were 12 Search and Rescue incidents during the year 2021. There will be more interesting statistics coming next month about these searches/rescues. Remember, your Beaverhead Search and Rescue is “In the Business of Saving Lives”.

Dillon's Festival of Trees returns this year with a silent auction starting tonight during the downtown Christmas stroll. This years event will be held at the Frontier Events Center. With the silent auction portion starting tonight December 3rd. from 5 to 9 P.M. The Gala and Live Auction portion will be tomorrow at 5 P.M. Guests will enjoy entertainment and baron beef of baron for dinner. Proceeds raised for this event will go to Beaverhead Little League and the Grasshopper Valley Volunteer Fire Department.

Christmas time is approaching fast, all though the weather would have you thinking it's a different season. This weekend we have the always popular downtown Dillon Christmas Stroll. Many stores will have special deals as well as a featured artist so come on down and shop local. Thursday 12/02/2021 Bingo! Cash Prizes *NO ELKS MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED* The public is invited to play Bingo every Thursday at 7:00 p.m. ~Must be over age 18 to play.~ We play the following games:* • $10 for 10 games (3 cards each game) • $1 Midway Blackout (2 cards per sheet) • $2 Blackout (6 cards per sheet) *Buy more game cards if you like! We will practice social distancing. Please bring your own dauber if you have one. There will be some available to borrow. Come see our new electronic bingo machine! The bar and lounge are also open at 6 p.m. on Thursdays. Community Dinner & Bingo No membership is required to attend! Community dinner is served from 5:30-7:00 p.m. If you're running late, please call 683-5552 and we'll save it for you. Food is also available for pickup. $10 adult / $6 children under 10 Veterans pay half price! ~Burger Bar & Salad~ [photo is a representation] Dinner includes entree, crisp green salad, coffee or tea, and dessert. Stay for bingo at 7 p.m. (must be over 18 to play) Lounge is open on Thursday night from 5 p.m. to close. Strong People Low impact core strengthening workout for young and old. Mondays and Thursdays - 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. (nominal fee) Come in and change your life! For more info, please call 660-2777 Irish Christmas in America @ Mother Lode Theatre, Butte MT The hugely popular holiday show Irish Christmas in America brings a fascinating performance of music, song, dance and stories of seasonal Irish traditions. Take a memorable glimpse into the enchanting spirit of Christmas, as the finest traditional artists from Ireland, bring you on a fun-filled start to the holiday season of 2021. Friday 12/03/2021 Tai Chi Tai Chi (tie chee) meets on Tuesdays and Fridays at 9:30 a.m. It is a gentle form of ancient Chinese exercise that was originally developed for self-defense (with rapid moves), but has evolved into what some call "meditation in motion." If you want to reduce stress and anxiety, while increasing flexibility and balance, come join this class. No charge. Christmas Stroll Annual Christmas Stroll featuring authors Chuck Johnson and Dave Carty . Chuck is the author of Training the Versatile Hunting Dog and is the owner of Wilderness Adventure Press in Belgrade, Montana. Dave is the author of Leaves on Frozen Ground. The will be signing copies of their books from 5:00-7:00 during the Christmas Stroll and Parade of Lights. Christmas Stroll 2021 at Emporium406 Stop in at Emporium406 during the Christmas Stroll and browse our large inventory of holiday gifts! The Winter Art Walk and Festival of Trees events are happening also during the Christmas Stroll Parade of Lights | Christmas Stroll At 6pm, Santa lights the Christmas Tree in front of the Beaverhead County Courthouse and Starts the Parade on Pacific Street onto Bannack Street! Parade Theme: A Very Merry Blue & Gold Christmas (Go Beavers!) After the parade, visit many of our shops downtown for some Christmas Shopping, The Festival of Trees, or the YMCA for their Movie Night in the Pool! For parade entries, email info@beaverheadchamber.org or call 406-683-5511! Sheridan Christmas Stroll Join us on Friday, December 3rd for the Sheridan Christmas Stroll! We will have drinks, appetizers and a giveaway! We look forward to seeing you! Christmas at the Mother Lode Theatre Uptown Butte Christmas Stroll is Friday December 3. The Mother Lode Theatre will host a free concert for the family beginning at 7 pm with the Montana Tech Band and Highland Brass. As you enjoy the Uptown festivities come by the the theatre for holiday music to get you in the spirit of the holidays. For more information contact the box office at 406.723.3602. Christmas Stroll at the Museum Join us at the museum during the Christmas Stroll Friday December 3, 2021 from 3 pm - 8 pm. Our gift store will be offering discounts on Made in Montana products, books, jewelry, cards and much much more. The museum exhibits will be open free to the public. Plans are in the works to make this years Christmas at the Museum special...more information to follow Badger Archery Christmas Stroll Guess what!? Small business Saturday deals just extended through this Saturday December 4th. 25 percent off calls, scents, targets and cases. 10% off broadheads, lighted nocks and bowfishing accessories!!! Also up to $150 off select 2021 bows. Biggest sale of the year!! Saturday 12/04/2021 Breakfast With Santa Come down Saturday December 4th from 8am - 11am and have some breakfast, make a craft and see Santa! Ages 12 and older $5 Ages 3-11 $3 Ages 2 and under are Free Alpaca Christmas Affair Come to the farm and meet the alpacas, horses, miniature horses and donkeys. Get your photo taken with an alpaca. Visit Santa, Go on a wagon ride, Then get a jump on your holiday shopping at our alpaca product store with additional vendors. On your way out pick out a fresh cut Christmas Tree! We cant wait to see you! Winter Craft Bazaar Craft fair at the Dillon Elks Lodge. Rent your 4'x8' space now for $25. Come see the wonderful crafts made by our our local talent! $5 for turkey dumpling soup, roll and water. Winter Holiday Bazaar Holiday Bazaar. Come visit local crafter's and Vendors. at The Butte Vigilante Rodeo & Saddle Club "Butte"iful Christmas Craft Show Join us for the Butteiful Christmas Craft Show, filled with handmade crafts, music, food, face painting and of course Santa!!! LIVE MUSIC w/ Fan Mountain Frog Dogs Join us Friday for music from Fan Mountain Frog Dogs at our tasting room in Ennis, MT. Festival of Trees Join us to support the Grasshopper Valley Volunteer Fire Department and the Beaverhead Little League. On Friday Dec 3 5 to 9 pm, families are welcome to come see the trees- no entry fee. Shine Dancers will perform. Visit with Santa from 7 to 9 pm. Purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win prizes for your kids. Saturday night, join us for baron of beef dinner, silent auction, and live auction. Doors open at 5 pm. Tickets are $35 each or $280 for a table of 8. Tickets on sale at The Bookstore and Taylor Realty. Sunday 12/05/2021 Community Christmas dinner Community Dinner and Ugly Sweater Contest. at the VC Elks Lodge. Dec. 5, @ 1 PM -No charge for meal, turkey and ham donated by the Virginia City Opera House. Please bring a baked goods or desserts. Donation proceeds to be divided between Ennis Schools and Sheridan Schools "Secret Santa for kids" Tap on picture to see all of the poster Questions contact Tanya at 406-660-1559 The Great Clear Twilight and Other Tales: A Winter Concert The Mining City Choral Union and Montana Tech Copper Hill Choir present: The Great Clear Twilight and Other Tales: A Winter Concert Sunday, December 5th, 3:00pm at Aldersgate United Methodist Church. 1621 Thornton Ave, Butte, MT 59701 Masks required to attend in-person. To watch from home, visit the Mining City Choral Union on YouTube ( https://youtu.be/qmrsj52CTNE ). Adults: $10 Students: $5 Children 5 and under: Free Watch from home (via YouTube): Free (donations welcome) Donations can be made to the Mining City Choral Union via our website ( https://MiningCityCU.org/donate ) or by texting MCCU to 44321. DONT FORGET OUR CHRISTMAS LIGHT DECORATING CONTEST IS GOING ON SEND YOUR ADDRESS TO SOUTHWESTERNMTNEWS@GMAIL.COM TO BE ENTERED

STREET & ALLEY COMMITTEE MEETING ~ AGENDA ~ Monday, December 6th, 2021 4:00 P.M. 1. Call to Order 2. Discuss/Recommend Abandonment of Portion of Normal Street Between the 800 and 900 Blocks of South Pacific Street. 3. Discuss/Recommend Title 10 Chapter 76 – Load Limits 4. Public Comment on Items Not Agenda but Within The Jurisdiction of The City 5. Adjournment Committee Members Dan Nye, Chair Don Hand Russ Schwandt 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 (pre- virus). Any who would like to physically attend, are asked to please wear a face covering and practice 6-ft social distancing at the meeting. For those who are cautious about physically attending, 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. Please mute your mic until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245. Thank you, Michael L. Klakken, Mayor

Beaverhead County Tax Appeal Board Meeting December 10, 2021 Commissioners’ Room Beaverhead County Courthouse Agenda 9:30 A.M. Reorganization of the Board Action on December 10, 2020 Meeting Minutes Recess ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ 10:00 A.M. Reconvene Tax Appeal Board Meeting David & Misty Cunningham Tax Appeal Deliberation Action Tax Appeal Board Decision Adjourn

City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers December 7, 2021 12:00 P.M. NOON SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A. MAYOR’S REPORT 1. Approve Resolution of the City Council of the City of Dillon Stating The Intent to Approve Phase 2 of the Beaver Pride Subdivision, Providing for a Public Hearing on the Question of Approving Phase 2 of the Beaver Pride Subdivision, and Providing for Notice of the Public Hearing. B. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY C. 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 (pre-virus). Any who would like to physically attend, are asked to please wear a face covering and practice 6-ft social distancing at the meeting. For those who are cautious about physically attending, 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. Please mute your mic until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245. Thank you, Michael L. Klakken, Mayor

Authors, Chuck Johnson and Dave Carty, will be signing books at the Bookstore on Friday during the annual Christmas Stroll from 5:00-7:00. Chuck is the owner of Wilderness Adventures press in Belgrade and the author of Training the Versatile Hunting Dog . This book shows you how to develop a great hunting dog with his unique approach. The emphasis is on letting your young dog first develop its natural abilities. He then shares how to put the controls on your dog with chapters on trained retrieving and tracking. These versatile breeds also love water and there are detailed chapters on water retrieving. Included in the book is information on choosing a pup, the importance of early socialization and introducing your dog to gunfire and birds. This revolutionary book is written for the popular hunting breeds with detailed explanations and numerous illustrative photos along with lists of suppliers and various hunting dog organizations. Johnson has been training, breeding and hunting with German Wirehaired Pointers for over 30 years as well as writing a column for Pointing Dog journal. Dave Carty of Bozeman is the author of the debut novel Leaves on Frozen Ground . Meet the Vaillancourt family, where 11 year old Edmund loves the wild country beyond his family's orchard. He is stubborn and willful with a heart that is owned by his dog and a land that can be unforgiving. He finds himself alone in the woods while a killer storm is bearing down on him. His border collie, Breeze is by his side is all he has to keep warm. The book explores what happens when economic and personal bonds are torn apart and tragedy strikes. Telling the story of a small family's struggles and loss stretches them to the limits of family union and love. From beginning to end the vivid descriptions and careful character development prove this story to be the work of a keen observer of the human condition. Meet the authors at The Bookstore during the Christmas Stroll and Parade of lights. Please call 683-6807 if you have questions or would like to reserve copies of these books.