Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff is on pace to collect a record number of chronic wasting disease samples from deer, elk and moose this year . Between July 1 and Nov. 12, FWP staff collected 3,147 CWD samples, of which 1,613 were from the 2021 priority sampling areas located in northwestern, northcentral, southwestern and southcentral Montana. This is above last year’s 2,966 collected samples within that same time period. In addition, hunters have submitted 239 samples this year, down from 430 hunter-submitted samples at this time last year. The samples were tested at the Montana Department of Livestock’s Veterinary Diagnostic Lab in Bozeman. Average testing turn-around time is currently seven days, which is quicker than previous years. “Hunters expect quick results when they get their animals tested for CWD and the Department of Livestock has provided that,” said FWP director Hank Worsech. “We’re grateful to have this in-state capacity for testing.” So far 64 animals tested positive or suspect for CWD. Here is a breakdown of positive and suspect results by species: White-tailed deer: 47 Mule deer: 16 Elk: 0 Moose: 1 CWD is a contagious neurological disease that infects deer, elk and moose. It is always fatal and there is no known cure. It was first found in Montana in 2017. It is not known to infect humans, but it is strongly recommended that people not eat meat from infected animals and to have their harvested animals tested before eating them if they were taken from an area where CWD is known to exist. FWP covers the cost of testing hunter-harvested animals for CWD. Hunters should look online for information on how to take a sample themselves and submit it for testing or bring animals to a CWD check station of FWP regional office for sampling. Sample submission is voluntary throughout Montana. For more information on these surveillance areas and how to submit samples for testing, visit fwp.mt.gov/cwd.

Its that time of the year to sharpen up the old axe, fire up the station wagon and head to the mountains to pick the perfect tree. If you plan on getting your tree from the Beaverhead Deerlodge Forest you will first need a Christmas Tree Permit. You can follow this link here to get your permit. Before you go we have some helpful tips when you select your tree. Where to Cut Your Tree Your permit allows you to cut Christmas trees in any national forest in Montana. Make sure you cut your tree on public lands by checking either the Southwest Montana Interagency Visitor Map or the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Visitors Map and follow road signs. Do not cut on private land, in wilderness areas, designated campgrounds, or existing tree plantations. Do not cut in active timber sales or areas that have been planted with new trees. Do not cut trees visible from major roads, in campgrounds, or in other well-used areas. Selecting Your Tree Each forest has limitations on the size of the tree you can cut and the species of trees that are permitted. See below to help you measure and choose a tree that meets your permit's guidelines. Tree Height: 12 feet maximum Stump height: 6 inches maximum Take the whole tree. Do not remove the top of the tree; cut down the entire tree If snow is on the ground, remove it from around the stump so you can accurately measure the stump and tree height. Planning Your Trip How to Plan Your Trip Before you leave home, be sure to measure the space where you plan to place the tree in your home (height and width), and measure the space in your vehicle where you will be transporting the tree. You must print and bring your Christmas Tree Permit with you. Cell service may be spotty or unavailable. Be sure someone knows where you are and when to expect you back. Check the latest weather conditions, forest warnings and road closures before you leave on your trip. Bring a map with you. Don’t rely on GPS because it may not be up-to-date with forest service roads. Dress warmly and take extra dry clothes. Expect winter weather, including cold temperatures, snow and winds. Roads may not be plowed. Carry tire chains, shovel(s) and a tow chain. Be sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Bring a spare key and give it to someone else in your party. Don’t get locked out of your car! Park in areas so that traffic can get by safely, and do not block gates. Bring plenty of food and water with you as well as an overnight survival kit in case you become stranded. Start your day early. Be sure to find your tree and leave the woods before dark. We don't recommend bringing your pets but, if you do, they must be on a leash. Helpful Cutting Tips Carry your tree carefully out of the woods. Dragging the tree will rub off needles and bark. If the tree is too big to transport inside of your vehicle, wrap it in canvas to prevent wind damage. Once home, cut the bottom of the trunk off and place the freshly cut trunk in a bucket of water. Replenish water. If storing your tree outside for a few days before putting it in the house, keep it in an area protected from the wind, such as the north or east side of your house or under a shaded tree. Tools you might want to consider bringing with you include a measuring tape to ensure you select a tree that fits in your home; handsaw to cut your tree; gloves to protect your hands; boots to protect your feet; a tarp to sit on and/or to move your tree once it's cut; and rope or straps to secure your tree to your vehicle. Choose a tree from a dense forested area, which will give the remaining trees more space to grow. Cut the leftover branches from the stump and scatter them.

PUBLIC NOTICE The Directors of West Side Canal Company will hold a meeting on Tuesday, November 30, 2021, at 10:00 a.m. in the Law Office of Fanning Law, PLLC, 15 S. Idaho St., Ste. 4, Dillon, Montana. The agenda includes adjudication issues, water issues, transfer of shares and other matters which may properly come before the Board.

Together with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), Governor Greg Gianforte announced today that $27 million in federal funding is available to help Montanans with heating bills this winter and to weatherize more homes. “With inflation at a high not seen in a generation and home heating prices continuing to increase, Montanans shouldn’t have to choose between heating their home and putting food on the table,” Governor Gianforte said. “Winter months can be challenging, and these programs are meant to help eligible Montanans keep their homes warm.” In October, the federal government projected home heating bills will skyrocket by as much as 54 percent compared to last winter. In the last year, inflation has driven up the price of fuel oil by 59 percent, propane and firewood by 35 percent, and utility gas by 28 percent. Additional funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and Weatherization programs are available through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Based on the recommendations from Montana’s ARPA Health Advisory Commission, Governor Gianforte devoted $27 million for the new program on June 28, 2021. Eligible Montanans can find LIHEAP application information at liheap.mt.gov . About $14 million in funding will be used to increase heat assistance payments for the lowest income households with the highest energy burden, as well as special populations such as the elderly, disabled, or households with young children. LIHEAP is a federally-funded program that already provides $21 million annually to Montana to reduce the home energy burden for low-income households. DPHHS works to ensure that households with the lowest income and highest energy burden receive the greatest level of assistance. Payments are made directly to energy providers. The ARPA funds temporarily supplement the existing LIHEAP program and provide an increase in benefits to households that could benefit from these funds the most. A portion of the funds will pay for a new, temporary benefit to pay for utility arrearages and emergency payments for reconnection fees or to stop service disconnects. The increase in payments will only apply for the 2021-22 LIHEAP season. On average, about 18,500 Montanan households are enrolled in LIHEAP statewide, and 460 homes are weatherized each year. The $6 million allocation to the Weatherization Program will reduce energy costs for additional households by increasing energy efficiency in homes. DPHHS officials say these investments have long-term impacts, and the estimated annual savings to each home receiving weatherization services is about $409. For more information about this funding opportunity and all ARPA funding allocated to DPHHS go to arpa.mt.gov .

November 17, 2021 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA CANCELED DUE TO LACK OF QUOREM PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A. MINUTES 1. Approve November 3, 2021 Regular Meeting Minutes B. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS C. MAYOR’S REPORT 1. Approve A Resolution Of Intent Setting A Date For Hearing And Providing Notice For A Hearing To Adopt A Change In The Official Zoning Map On The Property Located At 10 East Reeder Street From An R-2 Medium Density Residential Zone To A C-3 Central Business District Zone 2. Approve A Resolution Of Intent Setting A Date For Hearing And Providing Notice For A Hearing To Adopt A Change In The Official Zoning Map On The Potato Cellar Area From An Un-Zoned Area To A C-2 Zone 3. Approve A Resolution Stating The Intent To Consider Annexation Of A Wholly Surrounded Tract Of Land Owned By John Grant, Providing For A Combined Hearing On The Question Of Annexing The Wholly Surrounded Property, Zoning The Same, And Providing For Notice Of The Combined Hearing 4. Approve A Resolution Of Intent Stating The Intent To Consider Annexation Of A Wholly Surrounded Tract Of Land Owned By Shannon And Krista Manness, Providing For A Combined Hearing On The Question Of Annexing The Wholly Surrounded Property , Zoning The Same, And Providing For Notice Of The Combined Hearing. D. REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1. Library Board – John McGinley, Council Member; Lori Canady, Library Director 2. Attorney – James Dolan 3. Planning Board- Don Hand; Bill Shafer a. Accept August 26, 2021 Meeting Minutes b. Accept September 9, 2021 Meeting Minutes c. Accept October 7, 2021 Meeting Minutes d. Accept November 4, 2021 Meeting Minutes 4. Zoning Commission – Raymond Graham; Russ Schwandt a. Accept October 26, 2021 Meeting Minutes 5. Director of Operations - Todd Hazelbaker 6. Police Department – Chief Don Guiberson 7. Fire Department - Fire Chief, BJ Klose a. Approve City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for October 2021 b. Approve Budget vs Expenditures for Fire Hall for October 2021 8. City Court – Judge Kaylan Minor 9. Treasurer – Karen Kipp 10. Tree Board – Mary Jo O’Rourke 11. Board of Adjustments a. Accept April 22, 2021 Meeting Minutes E. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Judiciary Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Raymond Graham 2. Finance Committee – Don Hand, Chair; Russ Schwandt; Dan Nye 3. Fire and Order Committee – Bill Shafer, Chair; Russ Schwandt; Raymond Graham 4. Health and Welfare – John McGinley, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke; Diane Armstrong 5. Cemetery Committee - Diane Armstrong, Chair; Bill Shafer; Don Hand 6. Parks Committee – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Chair; Bill Shafer; John McGinley 7. City Hall Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Dan Nye, John McGinley 8. Street and Alley Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Don Hand, Russ Schwandt 9. Water and Sewer Committee – Don Hand, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Raymond Graham 10. ARPA Committee – John McGinley, Russ Schwandt a. Approve November 1, 2021 Meeting Minutes F. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY G. ADJOURNMENT PLEASE NOTE: The City of Dillon understands that citizens have the right under the Montana Constitution to observe and participate in local governmental affairs by personally attending all public meetings of the Dillon City Council and other City boards and committees. This meeting is open to the public as normal (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

It’s that time of the year! Time to make someones’ day! The American Legion Post 20 , Staff Sergeant Cochran of the local Armory and the Auxiliary to Bill Carroll VFW Post 9040 have joined together to provide Christmas stockings for our soldiers. SSG Cochran has 127 addresses for those deployed soldiers from our area, to receive the first stockings. Local Veterans in our care facilities have also received stockings. If you would like to donate a stocking, or items to put inside them or money towards the mailings you can drop them off at 3-D at 130 South Montana Street or with SSG Cochran at the Armory or mail checks to the American Legion designated for the Christmas Stockings mailing fund (PO Box 146, Dillon, MT 59725). Suggested items are signed Christmas cards, playing cards, candy - tootsie rolls, nail clippers, pocket size cribbage boards, tuna or chicken in foil packages (easy to eat), rice krispie treats, sewing kits, toothbrushes, tissues, pencils, lip balm or chapstick, small hand lotions, crackers or anything edible small enough to put in a stocking. If you select jerky please read the label as pork products are not allowed. Puzzle books, socks, sun burn lotions even small packets of band aids. Most of these will be shipping to Kuwait and it is HOT there, chocolate might not be the best idea. Homemade items might be best for local use due the shipping delay. We are not allowed to send items with American flags on them overseas; guardian angel pins in red, white and blue will always be allowed. Small items that would let someone think of home or that the sender cares about them are PERFECT! Fort Harrison Veterans always appreciate warm socks, hats and gloves. Any questions please call Joan at 406-683-4261 or SSG Cochran at the armory 406-324-5226 or cell 406-304-1197. THANK YOU for your continued support!

CARROLL COLLEGE, MONTANA TECH AND MONTANA WESTERN STUDENT-ATHLETES EARN WEEKLY FOOTBALL HONOR WHITEFISH, Mont., Nov. 15, 2021 — Student-athletes from Carroll College, Montana Tech and Montana Western were selected the Erck Hotels/Frontier Conference Football Players of the Week. Defensive Player of the Week: T.J. Abraham, Carroll College is a 5-foot-8, 170 lbs, redshirt junior defensive back from Powell, Wyo. In Carroll College’s 21-6 upset home win over No. 19 College of Idaho, Abraham recorded 12 solo tackles, six assisted tackles and two forced fumbles. Also nominated and listed in alphabetical order; Adam Ames of Rocky Mountain College, Hayden Brandon of Eastern Oregon, Joe Caicedo of Montana Western and Bridger Johnson of Montana Tech. Offensive Player of the Week: Reese Neville, Montana Western, is a 6-foot, 205 lbs, redshirt senior running back from Yerington, Nev. In No. 25 Montana Western’s 50-42 double-overtime upset home win over No. 16 Rocky Mountain College, Neville rushed for 226 yards and the game-winning touchdown on 23 carries (9.8 yards average). He also had four catches for 22 yards. Neville was two yards short of a Bulldog single game rushing record. Also nominated and listed in alphabetical order; Nathan Dick of Rocky Mountain College, Blake Counts of Montana Tech, Kai Quinn of Eastern Oregon and Baxter Tuggle of Carroll College. Special Teams Player of the Week: Ryan Lowry, Montana Tech is a 6-foot, 195 lbs redshirt freshman kicker, from Pasco, Wash. In Montana Tech’s season ending 41-0 home win over MSU-Northern, Lowry was 4 of 4 extra points and 2 of 2 field goals (47, 34). Also nominated; Riley Garrett of Rocky Mountain College.

Judy Siring , owner and agent of Farmers Union Insurance-Judy Siring Agency LLC, will speak to Rotarians and guests at noon Wednesday, November 17, 2021. Visitors are welcome. Anyone interested in learning more about Rotary should come at noon to be a guest for lunch. The Club meets in the Guild Hall of St. James Episcopal Church, 203 East Glendale St. For more information, email John O’Brien at john@highpeaksfcu.com or Tina Giem at tgiem@barretthospital.org .

BEAVERHEAD FIRE DIST. #2 405 N. IDAHO STREET DILLON, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY November 16, 2021 5:00 PM AGENDA: I. Call to order II. Approval of Minutes from 10-19-21 meeting Public Comment III. Approval of Warrants Public Comment IV. Old Business Public Comment V. New Business Public Comment VI. Chiefs Report VII. Public Comment VIII. Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda IX. Adjournment

Frontier Conference Commissioner Kent Paulson announced the 2021 Frontier Conference All-Conference volleyball team, the All-Freshman team, individual award winners as well as each team’s NAIA Champions of Character recipient. Regular season champion and tournament champion University of Providence landed four players on the first team. Providence head coach Arunas Duda was named Coach of the Year. Providence junior setter Cydney Finberg-Roberts was named Player of the Year and Setter of the Year. Rocky Mountain College junior libero Ayla Embry was named Defensive Player of the Year. University of Providence outside hitter Jenna Thorne was named Newcomer of the Year and Carroll College outside hitter Elizabeth Heuiser was named Freshman of the Year. University of Providence assistant coach Dave Gantt was selected Assistant Coach of the Year. 2021 Frontier Conference All-Conference Volleyball First Team Julia Carr, Carroll College, 5-7, So., DS; Portland, Ore. Taelyr Krantz, Carroll College, 6-0, Sr., OH; Helena, Mont. Rylee Burmester, MSU-Northern, 5-10, Sr., OH; Star Valley, Wyo. Alana Graves, MSU-Northern, 5-11, So., MH; Ballantine, Mont. Maureen Jessop, Montana Tech, 6-1, Jr., OH; Corvallis, Mont. McKenna Kaelber, Montana Tech, 5-11, Jr., S; Pasco, Wash. Karina Mickelson, Montana Tech, 6-0, Sr., OH; Laguna Niguel, Calif.. Ayla Embry, Rocky Mountain College, 5-4, Jr., L; Bozeman, Mont. Sacha Legros, University of Providence, 5-9, Sr., L; Verviers, Belgium Sadie Lott, University of Providence, 5-9, So., OH/MB; Idaho Falls, Idaho Cydney Finberg-Roberts, University of Providence, 5-11, Sr.,S; Columbia Falls, Mont. Jenna Thorne, University of Providence, 5-11, So., OH; Karitane, New Zealand 2021 Frontier Conference All-Conference Volleyball Second Team Elizabeth Heuiser, Carroll College, 6-0, Fr., OH; Helena, Mont. Emily Feller, MSU-Northern, 5-10, So., S; Helena, Mont. Taylor Henley, Montana Tech, 6-1, Jr., MB; Kalispell, Mont. Olivia Muir, Montana Tech, 5-11, Jr., OH; Smoot, Wyo. Weiying Wu, Rocky Mountain College, 6-2, Sr., MB; Beijing, China Zoe Naugle, University of Providence, 6-1, So., MB; Castle Rock, Wash. 2021 Frontier Conference All-Conference Volleyball All-Freshmen Team Elizabeth Heuiser, Carroll College, 6-0, OH; Helena, Mont. Alyssa Pretty Weasel, MSU-Northern, 6-0, OH/RS; St. Xavier, Mont. Kelsey Goddard, Montana Western, 5-7, L/DS; Las Vegas, Nev. Danyel Martin, Montana Western, 6-2, MB; McAllister, Mont. Blythe Sealey, Rocky Mountain College, 5-8, S; Roundup, Mont. Madysen Hoerner, University of Providence, 6-0, OH; Columbia Falls, Mont. Mariah Jardine, University of Providence, 5-9, RS; Idaho Falls, Idah 2020-21 Volleyball Champions of Character Carroll College, Julia Carr, 5-7, So., DS; Portland, Ore. Montana Tech, Logan Reed, 5-9, Rs/So., MB; Oakesdale, Wash. Montana Western, Rylee Nickodemus, 5-6, Rs/Fr. S; Windsor, Colo. MSU-Northern, Kaitlyn Murdock, 5-4, So. DS/L; Lodge Grass, Mont. Rocky Mountain College, Emma Fox, 5-9, So., S; Bozeman, Mont. University of Providence, Sadie Lott, 5-9, So., MB; Idaho Falls, Idaho

(Game Recap: Football | November 13, 2021 | Casey Parrott, UMW Sports Information) The 23rd ranked Montana Western Bulldogs (8-3, 7-3) clinched a share of the Frontier Conference Championship with a 50-42 double overtime win over No. 16 Rocky Mountain College (7-3, 7-3). The Bulldog defense held strong when the needed to. forced Rocky to a four and out in double overtime to seal the win. Reese Neville scored the go-ahead touchdown from a yard out to give the Bulldogs a 50-42 lead. Neville finished with 23 carries for 226 yards (two yards shy of a school record) and a score. He averaged 9.8 yards a carry as the Bulldogs pound the ball on the ground all game totaling 320 rushing yards. With the ground game turning up chunks of yardage the Bulldogs also found success in the air despite the blustery conditions at Vigilante Field. Jon Jund threw for 328 yards on 23-45 passing and four touchdowns. He also ran the ball for 70 yards and two scores. The Bulldogs took a 21-0 lead into halftime and looked to be in control of the game. But Rocky wouldn't back down without a fight. Aided by penalties the Battlin' Bears Quickly marched down the field and scored their first points of the game. After the teams traded punts Jund found Jamison Hermanson for a 48 yard score to put the Bulldogs back up by three scores. Rocky answered on their next position to trim the lead to 28-14. Jund's next pass was intercepted and returned 40 yards for a touchdown and Rocky was within seven at 28-21. Jund then found Nate Simkins for the third time late in the third to put Western back up by 14. Simkins finished with nine catches for 159 yards. The Bulldogs forced another rocky punt, but Jund's pass was intercepted and the Bears reasoned one play later to once again trim the Bulldog lead to just seven at 35-28. Rocky forced a Western three-and-out and tied the game seven plays later. Rocky forced yet another Bulldog punt, but Bulldogs kept the drive alive when Rocky was flagged for roughing the punter. Jund found Simkins for a 27 yard cold blooded connection on fourth-and-eight to put the Bulldogs inside the redzone at the five yard line. Jund then scored on the next play to give Western the 42-35 lead with 2:28 remaining in regulation. Nathan Dick with orchestrated an 11 play drive that tied the game at 42 with just 32 seconds left. Dick finished 16 of 38 for 194 yards and four touchdowns, he also rushed the ball for 107 yards. Western won the overtime coin toss and elected to go on defense and were rewarded as they forced another Rocky fumble setting up the offense for the walk off win. Western drove the ball down to the six yard line and on fourth down sent the kicker out to attempt a game winning field goal. But needing to win by four or more points to win the conference tie-breaker of defensive points allowed. Western called timeout and drew upa fourth down play. Former quarterback and current wide receiver Blake Sentman passed the ball to Jund in the "Philly Special" But Jund was tackled just inches short of he first down marker at the one yard line. and the Bulldogs turned the ball over on downs and the game went into the second overtime period. Wester got the ball to start and four straight runs by Neville gave the Bulldogs the 48-42 lead. Hermanson caught the two-point conversion to give UMW an eight point lead. Then the defense stepped up and forced an errent pass from Dick on fourth down and the Bulldogs celebrated their first Conference title since 2004. Joe Caicedo led the Bulldogs with 12 tackles, Gus Hanson and Kameron Rauser each had six tackles and Tanner Harrell had four tackles, 2 tackles for loss and a sack. The Bulldogs share the Frontier crown with the College of Idaho and Rocky Mountain College who all finished the season at 7-3. The Bulldogs will find out if they made the playoffs tomorrow Nov. 14 at 5 p.m. on the NAIA Football selection show. NOTES: The Bulldogs eight wins are the most since the 2002 season. The Bulldogs ran 102 plays Nate Simkins tied a school record for the sixth time with three touchdown receptions. He also broke the school record for career catches with 218. He broke a single season record with 80 passes caught. the Bulldogs had 13 pass beak ups. the Bulldogs forced four fumbles, recovering three of them.

In honor of Veterans Day yesterday, Governor Greg Gianforte today issued a proclamation declaring Montana a Hidden Heroes State to recognize military caregivers. “Montana is proudly home to one of the highest numbers of veterans per capita in the nation. We’re also home to countless military and veteran caregivers, whether they’re parents, spouses, siblings, or friends,” Gov. Gianforte said. “By proclaiming Montana a Hidden Heroes State, we’re recognizing those who are serving these vital roles in our communities.” As a Hidden Heroes state, Montana joins the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s network of more than 170 communities nationwide committed to identifying military caregivers and increasing awareness and support. Launched in 2016, Hidden Heroes raises awareness of the issues military caregivers face; brings critical resources to our nation’s “hidden heroes” caring for wounded, ill and injured service members and veterans; and connects military caregivers to a community of their peers. The campaign was founded by Senator Elizabeth Dole, is chaired by actor Tom Hanks, and works with thousands of military caregivers representing every state in the union. “I’ve seen first-hand the tremendous impact 5.5 million young spouses, mothers, dads, siblings and other loved ones make in the lives of wounded warriors every day, in neighborhoods large and small, in states like Montana and across the country,” said Senator Elizabeth Dole, Founder of the Elizabeth Dole Foundation. “Today we are one step closer to ensuring that these caregivers are woven into the fabric of our nation’s appreciation of the military. My heartfelt thanks to Governor Greg Gianforte and his team for their strong support of military caregivers, America's hidden heroes.” “It’s exciting to see Montana become a Hidden Heroes State. I’m looking forward to bringing increased resources to my fellow caregivers, as well as increased awareness of Military and Veterans families’ needs as we step forward in the journey together,” said Krista Petterson, Montana Dole Caregiver Fellow. Individuals caring for someone who served, or those who wish to support the campaign, can visit HiddenHeroes.org for more information. The Elizabeth Dole Foundation will work with partners across the state to help with the amplification and dissemination of vital caregiver resources, such as no-cost respite relief. “No matter where you are on your family’s caregiving journey, having a good road map will make the process a little bit easier, that is why AARP Montana is partnering with the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and their Hidden Heroes initiative. We appreciate Governor Gianforte for signing a proclamation recognizing Montana’s Hidden Heroes, those who are caregivers to Montana’s veterans,” said Tim Summers, State Director of AARP Montana. Senator Dole added, “The Elizabeth Dole Foundation envisions an America where military caregivers are empowered, appreciated and recognized for their service to the nation. Together, we are working towards a future where supporting military caregivers is no longer a cause, but it is part of the culture of our nation."

The weekend is upon and we have found a few events going on. As always if you have an event and you would like to get it on our calendar email us at southwesternmtnews@gmail.com Friday, November 12th Tai Chi Elks Lodge 1554 - Dillon MT 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. Desperate Electric with The Restless Pines Desperate Electric and Gilda House, LIVE at the Uptown Lounge at the Covellite Theater! Doors at 8PM Music at 9PM $10 In Advance $15 At The Door Join new Butte locals Desperate Electric for their Butte debut, supported by Butte favorites, Restless Pines! Doors at 8PM, music at 9PM. Dubbed ‘electro soul brilliance’, the Montana based duo, Desperate Electric, ‘enlists a perfect combination of live instrumentation with killer beats and all the bells and whistles under the kitchen sink’ (Indie Pulse Music, 2020). Consisting of Ben Morris (guitar, keys, vocals, production) and Kayti Korte (bass, vocals), the pair fuse their many influences to create a sound that’s both contemporary and nostalgic of past decades of funk, rock ‘n roll, and www.desperateelectric.com Toys for Tots Fundraiser The Butte Elks Lodge Invites you to join us Friday, November 12 to support the Toys for Tots Fundraiser!! Dinner will be served followed by Live Music and dancing with the Amazing Ken Rich!! A donation box will be available to provide a new unwrapped gift for a child in the community!! See the flyer for additional information. Saturday, November 13th Das Froot Live Comedy Kids show @ 2pm - $20 for family. Adults show @ 7pm $25 per person (includes one free drink). Doors open at 6 p.m. Proceeds will be used to support the Hoop Shoot and for Student Scholarships. Annual Lefse & Scandinavian Bazaar Daughter's of Norway Solheim Lodge #20 annual Lefse & Scandinavian Bazaar! Lefse, Vikings, Rosettes, Pies, and other baked goods! Vendors to include Rader406, scrapbookers, quilters and many others for all your Holiday needs! Smorgasbord 2021 Our Savior’s Lutheran Church is hosting its annual Smorgasbord event Saturday, November 13th, 2021 from 4:30p.m. – 7:00p.m. The cost for the dinner is $30 per family; $12 per adult and $6 for 12 and under. Turkey, ham, and roast beef are served along with various salads, side dishes and Scandinavian favorites. Our Savior’s is located at 715 E. Bannack St. in Dillon, MT. New Boutique open house Earrings, bracelets, necklaces and signs!!! Come check out my new adventure. There will be snacks, drinks and giveaways!! This is a great opportunity for Christmas shopping and supporting local business. That is all we are able to find for this weekend. Hunting season is still in full swing so if you haven't gotten meat for the freezer this weekend might be a good time to go out and test your luck. As things will begin to pick up with the Holiday season that is approaching fast. Have a safe and fun weekend Southwestern Montana.

Governor Greg Gianforte today launched the 2021 Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation and seeks nominations for the award. “Our veterans and their families have sacrificed so much in defense of our freedoms and our way of life. Even after their time in military service, many Montana veterans have kept the flame of service burning by helping others in their community,” Gov. Gianforte said. “I’m asking Montanans to help me identify and recognize these outstanding Montana veterans, and I look forward to honoring these heroes for their service to our nation and our communities.” The Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation recognizes outstanding Montana veterans who have selflessly served our country in uniform and made a positive impact in their community. More information about the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, including how to nominate a Montana veteran, may be found at recognizeveterans.mt.gov . The deadline for nominating an outstanding Montana veteran is December 31, 2021. Recipients of the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation will be announced and honored in the new year. For more information regarding the Montana Governor’s Veteran Commendation, contact Jack O’Brien at (406) 444-3111 or Jack.OBrien@mt.gov .

The University of Montana Western’s Theatre students are pleased to announce “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” to be held November 18-21 as part of the Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series. The performances will begin at 7:30 p.m. each night in the Small Auditorium (room 314) in Main Hall on the University of Montana Western campus. “It’s A Wonderful Life,” the American holiday film classic, has been creatively transposed into a stage adaptation, as if the story is being told as a 1948 live radio broadcast direct from the imaginary studio of WBFR Radio New York City. A team of student actors from Montana Western stand before retro microphones, creating the voices of dozens of characters. A sound effect “foley” artist shakes a hand-crafted thunder tube and cranks a wind machine to mimic a winter storm. Advertising gals and guys strut in glitzy outfits touting “marvelous soap” and “miraculous hair tonic.” And all of this occurs in front of a live audience! The show provides just the kind of fun and warmth welcomed at this time of year. A tear-jerker of a story, idealistic everyman George Bailey considers ending his life one snowy Christmas Eve, but, with the intervention of his guardian angel, he sees the sad lives of his family, friends, and beloved little town if he would have never been born. Recognizing that “no man is a failure who has friends,” he finds strength with his wife and children secure in his arms, good friends by his side, and learns how wonderful life truly is. According to Director Bethany Mason, “This is a play showing how much of an impact we can have on those around us and how important each one of us really are. I hope everyone leaves the theatre feeling uplifted and grateful to all those who have affected our lives in even the smallest way. After the difficult times we have all been through, it is important to take a moment and remember it really is a wonderful life.” Tickets for “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” are $10 general, $5 youth, and free for UMW students. The play is the third in the 2021-22 Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series. For more information, please contact Professor of Fine Arts and Education, Dr. Judy Ulrich: judy.ulrich@umwestern.edu or 406-683-7422.

Today with Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Director Adam Meier, Cascade County Sheriff Jesse Slaughter, and Rimrock CEO Lenette Kosovich, Governor Greg Gianforte announced a new initiative by the state to address Montana’s substance abuse crisis. Launched today at the Cascade County Sheriff’s Office, the Angel Initiative improves access to substance abuse treatment for Montanans through increased entry points to treatment and coordination with participating law enforcement partners. “Montana faces a substance abuse crisis, and we must do all we can to connect Montanans who need help to treatment,” Governor Gianforte said. “Under the leadership of Director Meier, DPHHS is thinking outside of the box to reduce the stigma associated with treatment and guide individuals on the path to recovery.” A collaborative effort among Governor Gianforte, DPHHS, participating law enforcement entities, and treatment providers, the Angel Initiative allows someone who is struggling with addiction and substance use to go into any participating law enforcement office and receive assistance to connected with treatment. To date, nearly 20 Montana sheriff’s offices have committed to join the effort. “We’re pleased that the Cascade County sheriff and other sheriffs across the state are participating in the Angel Initiative,” DPHHS Director Meier said. “We’re thrilled to be partnering with law enforcement and treatment providers to guide folks on the path to recovery and save lives.” Cascade County is considered the first site to launch the new effort. Other participating sites will become active after state-coordinated trainings scheduled for November and December, with the goal of having all sites trained by the new year. “I believe this program has great potential, and we’re excited to join the effort,” Sheriff Slaughter said. “In the end, we all have the same goal: keep our communities safe and help connect Montanans with the treatment they need. When that happens, we all win. Families stay together, children are safer, and people stay out of the judicial system.” A toll-free number connects law enforcement to the Angel Line where a mental health professional will assess the level of care an individual may need. If there is no availability in the local community, the Angel Line will provide alternate options for treatment in nearby communities. A placement for treatment is not guaranteed, and the participant may be placed on a wait list. Kosovich said Rimrock is committed to working directly with law enforcement and other providers to help connect Montanans with treatment. “We fully understand the toll that substance use disorders continue to take on Montanans, and this is yet another tool that can help connect people with the treatment they need,” Kosovich said. “We are eager to work with law enforcement and with all treatment providers as we work together to move this initiative forward.” The state is also working with the Behavioral Health Alliance of Montana to enroll substance abuse providers. To date, a total of nine providers representing over 20 counties have joined the Angel Initiative. Meier said similar programs have been successful in other states, citing the Kentucky State Police starting a similar initiative in 2016 with all 16 Kentucky State Police Posts participating. The program has helped placed several hundred individuals seeking assistance in treatment programs. Information about the new program is available at angelinitiative.mt.gov . The website features a map of participating locations, including specific contact information for each location. The governor cited several key statistics describing the impact in Montana: DPHHS estimates that approximately 90,000 Montanans have a substance use disorder, but realistically only a fraction of these people seek treatment in any given year. While opioids still account for the largest percentage of drug overdoses in the state, methamphetamine-related deaths, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits in Montana have increased over the last few years. Approximately 12,900 adolescent and adult Montanans used methamphetamine between 2009 and 2019. In 2019, the annual methamphetamine-related death rate in Montana was 7.2 per 100,000 people, exceeding the national average of 5.7 per 100,000 people. Furthermore, over 65 percent of Child and Family Services Division substance-use related placements list methamphetamine as the primary drug. From January through September 2021, the state averaged 69 opioid overdose calls per month. And, from late spring through summer 2021, Montana saw some of the highest opioid overdose monthly call volumes in the last three years, with 82 calls in July as the highest during that time frame.

WHITEFISH, Mont., Nov. 8, 2021 – Max Clark of Montana Western was selected the Erck Hotels/Frontier Conference’s Men’s Basketball Player of the Week. Clark is a 6-foot-3 senior from Lawrenceville, Ga. Montana Western won two games at the Montana Tech Tip-Off Classic. The Bulldogs beat Walla Walla University 88-65 and Dickinson State (N.D.) 82-59. For the weekend, Clark averaged 20 points, seven rebounds and five assists per game. He was 13 of 23 from the field (56.5 percent), 6 of 9, 3-point (66.7 percent), and 8 of 9 (89 percent) from free throw line. Also nominated and listed in alphabetical order; Sindou Diallo of Montana Tech, Mascio McCadney of MSU-Northern, Jovan Sljivancanin of Carroll College, Marcus Stephens of the University of Providence and Maxim Stephens of Rocky Mountain College.

The Water and Sewer meeting scheduled for today, November 9 at 4:00 is canceled due to Covid exposure . WATER - SEWER COMMITTEE MEETING City Council Chambers Tuesday, November 9, 2021 4:00 P.M. ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Discuss/Recommend Patty Kehrer Water Bill Reimbursement 2. Discuss/Recommend Adjustments to Water Mainline Project Water Users 3. Discuss/Recommend Adjusting Water Sewer Bill Database 4. Public Comment On Items Of Significant Public Interest Not On The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction Of The City 5. Adjournment COMMITTEE MEMBERS Don Hand, Chairperson Russ Schwandt Raymond Graham 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