Search Results

Beaverhead Search and Rescue News Submitted by: Mel Rice, Public Relations Officer The Beaverhead Search and Rescue held its January meeting on Wednesday the 6th. Commander Clint Rouse called the meeting to order at 7:00 pm. Several members participated in the meeting via zoom and 28 members attended in person while following Covid19 mandates of social distancing and wearing of masks. There were several items of business addressed: 2 donations from local businesses, the 2021 fish derby, member and rookie of the year, a presentation to a retiring member, and election of 2021 officers. The first order of business was a presentation to Larry Skiles, a dedicated member for the past 12 year. He served in many capacities within the organization. Larry was one that could be called upon to do whatever had to be done and participated in a majority of the searches and rescues performed during his tenure. If you see Larry out and about, thank him for his service to your Beaverhead S&R. Next were presentations to the organization’s “Outstanding Member and Outstanding Rookie Of The Year”. The 2020 Member of the Year went to Dusty Crowe. Dusty has served as Vice Commander for the past year and was just re-elected to that capacity. He has been very active and instrumental in numerous activities of the group. He is very unselfish with his time during fundraisers and searches/rescues. The 2020 Rookie of the Year was presented to Nathan Freeman. Nathan joined the S&R this past year and wasted no time getting involved. He has been very helpful in all aspects of the organization’s work and activities. He has been very willing to learn through trainings and from the seasoned members of the group. If you run into either of these fine gentlemen please thank them for their dedication and service to your Beaverhead Search and Rescue. Commander Clint Rouse presented donations to the S&R membership that he received from Vigilante Electric and Pioneer Federal Saving and Loan. Vigilante Electric’s General Manager, Rollie Miller, presented Clint with a check for $500.00 to be used for First Responder Wilderness Kits which the unit has put together for back country searches/rescues. Thank you Mr. Miller and Vigilante Electric for your support of BVHD S&R. The second donation was from President Phil Willett of Pioneer Savings and Loan. Mr. Willett presented a check for $2000.00 to Clint from their Foundation to be used to purchase necessary equipment for the unit. Thank you Phil Willet for your organization’s continued support of your Search and Rescue. The Beaverhead Search and Rescue would also like to let the public know we had a very busy 2020. Since September 1 there were 7 searches/rescues during the archery and general hunting season. In all of these incidents, all the victims were fine and required no medical attention. Prior to September there were 5 search/rescue incidents. Three of these involved deceased individuals and were considered recovery operations. The final order of business was the election of officers for the 2021 year. Results are as follow: Commander-Lawrence Morrisroe Vice Commander-Dusty Crowe Secretary-Kolby Malesich Treasurer-Brian Vinson Communications Officer-Brad Wagner Equipment Manager-Tommy Goins Training Officer-Nathan Freeman Public Relations-Mel Rice Board of Directors-Chuck Maddox, Cody Schnee, and Trent Cottom Congratulations to all of the newly elected officers. The meeting concluded with the passing of the gavel from Clint to Lawrence and a hardy thank you to Clint for his organizational skills, perseverance, dedication, and leadership during this trying Covid19 year.

Statement from the Beaverhead County Search and Rescue on the ice fishing derby. “Stan Shafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby” Not Authorized The Beaverhead Search and Rescue and Tara Remely, the “Stan Shafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby” chairperson, would like the public to know what has happened with the 2021 derby. Application was made before the 1st of July, 2020 for a January 17th, 2021 derby as required by the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks. For the next three months the FWP gave her the run around and would not confirm the date for the derby or even commit to the derby. When Tara called again in December she was told the derby had not been authorized because of Covid19. At that point it became a mute issue for the S&R membership. Within the past week a Dillon community member called the FWP and wanted to know why the derby had been canceled. He was informed by Fish Wildlife and Parks that the derby was a go and yet as of January 7, 2021, there has been no confirmation to that fact sent to or presented to the Search and Rescue. Even if the unit was to receive confirmation today, it is too late to get tickets printed and sold, permission from the Bureau of Reclamation and get everything else organized to put on this event. We apologize for not being able to have this great event as we have in the past. However, it was out of our hands from the very beginning. With any luck and cooperation we will be able to resume the Stan Shafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby in 2022. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Dillon, you may have noticed a new business. Susie's , which is located at 120 N Montana St, serves up delicious meal replacement smoothies, as well as coffees and teas. I was able to stop by and talk with owner Emily Wilson on what makes her business unique and different from other ones in the area. First off was the naming of her business. Susie's is named after her mom, and they wanted to create a sort of smoothie bar\family and friends gathering spot that is different from anything Dillon has to offer. Susie's is a place designed for families to get together, sit down, and enjoy a healthy drink. Based off a membership you purchase each time you come in, this allows you to enjoy certain perks. · A bronze membership includes any tea or coffee with any aloe flavor. · A silver includes any smoothie or shake flavor. · A gold is a smoothie and tea. · A Platinum is a smoothie plus you can attend an event that is going on at the time. Events will include live music, fitness class with an instructor or one of the other classes they may be offering. The first live music event will be Friday January 22nd. To help make it easier for those with kids, they do have a section to keep the kids entertained with toys and games. Please note, they are not a daycare or child drop off service, but if you are a busy mom wanting to catch a fitness class, you can bring the kids along, knowing they will have a source of entertainment for your little ones. Susie's hours of operation are as follows: Mon - Fri 7:30 A.M. to 9 P.M. Saturday 7:30 A.M. to 9 P.M.

The first Dillon City Council meeting of the year was held last night, and in true fashion it was a long one. As Council Members debated the purchase of a copier and who should pay for a City Road. The council started out with the mayor’s report and recommendation on continuing to be with the County Health Board. This was approved unanimously. Council person Don Hand stated this was a way to show how government could work, Council person Wassall disagreed with this and stated it was a complete waste of time. Especially during a pandemic that is on the rise. Council person O'Rourke also stated she was not clear on what his intentions where in doing these actions. The exchange starts at the 8 min mark of the video. At the 37 min 30 second mark the discussion to purchase a fax and copier machine for the City Attorney’s Office. The current equipment being used is old and outdated, they are unable to get parts to fix the machine there for it needs to be replaced. Council person Wassall had questions on if the machine they are purchasing was "used" or "used refurbished". The machine is one that was used at the state government and had roughly about 6,000 copies a year. To see the whole question and answer session you can go to the 37 min mark and runs for about 30 minutes. 1 Hr 5 min mark the motion to approve the infrastructure agreement between Eric Wendland and the city of Dillon. Council Person Wassall wanted to table the notion stating they needed more information and wanted more supporting documents, this was seconded by Council woman O'Rourke. The main problem is with the cost of the city's portion of the agreement. The section in question is 1200 ft of old road that is on the city's map as a road the city owns. This road has never been improved and was basically a dirt road running through cow pasture. The agreement as it stands in the documents is the city will pay for the engineering design and construction of Rife street, Kent Street, and Franklin Street up to a gravel overlay which includes all necessary storm water systems as per design. Owner agrees to grant easement on their land for a possible storm drain retention pond, as each site is built the sidewalks will be constructed in accordance to the Rife street plan provided by the city within one year before occupancy of each site. Once 70% of the platted properties utilizing Rife Street are complete the owner agrees to the creation of and execution of a SID created for the sole financing and construction of curb, gutter, and preparing of the streets of Kent, Rife, and Franklin for asphalting and completion of asphalting. The major problem with this agreement is that they do not have a cost or budget lined out on this project. Certain council members objected to the cost this would incur on the city, they believe that it is the developer’s responsibility to bring the road back to usable standards. The whole discussion can be seen on the last portion of the video provided below. Main road in question from last nights City Council Meeting along with the draft of agreement between the Wendlend's and the City of Dillon

On 01/06/21 at approximately 6:35 PM, the Dillon Police, and Beaverhead County Sheriffs Department responded to a complaint of a disorderly male. A male matching the suspect’s description was approached by police who observed a firearm in his waistband. The individual was directed to put his hands in the air and specifically not reach for the gun. The individual did not comply and grabbed the firearm. A shooting in sued. Officers were not physically injured. The male suspect was injured and transported by Beaverhead Emergency Medical Services. A Dillon Police Officer has been placed on administrative leave per policy in any shooting incident where injuries occur. The State of Montana Department of Criminal Investigation was contacted to investigate. Additional information will be disseminated when appropriate. Don Guiberson Chief of Police

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is asking trappers, researchers, and others in close contact with live felids (cats) and mustelids (weasels) to be conscious of the potential to transmit COVID into wild populations with unknown consequences.    COVID has been documented being transmitted from humans to cats and weasels in captivity and the consequences for wild populations is unknown.  Potential transmission would be most likely where researchers are live-capturing and releasing animals or in situations where a trapper might release an animal. Of particular note are lynx as they are designated as a federally threatened species.   The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and FWP are asking trappers to carry with them and use gloves, a mask, and a catch-pole when releasing animals. Normal trapping regulations and procedures remain in place, but please take precautions to eliminate potential transmission. As always, FWP is available to assist in release when needed or in situations where the trapping regulations require notification of the department.  Regional FWP office phone numbers are available online at fwp.mt.gov .

Governor Gianforte held a press conference today 01/05/2021 laying out the new steps he will put in place to deal with the COVID pandemic. Rescinding the mask mandate in the following weeks was on top of his list. But he did stress that it is dependent on getting the vaccine to the most vulnerable and getting protections in place for businesses, nonprofits, and schools. Gianforte stated they want to publish clear guidelines on how to keep employees safe as well as the customers. This will also protect them from lawsuits related to Corona Virus restrictions and complications. Gianforte also discussed the changes to the way they will continue with the distribution of the vaccine. All Montanans over 70 and any Montana aged 16-69 with specific underlying health conditions will be eligible for the vaccine immediately. With Montana being 8th in the nation for distribution of the vaccine, he emphasized that we cannot have the vaccine sitting on shelves being unavailable to those who want it.

Dillon Volunteer Fire Dept responded to 11 calls during the month of December. Members trained on chimney fires on their training night via zoom & on their drill night also went over chimney fires & basic chimney construction. 27 of 32 members were present for the monthly business meeting. 12/1 Smoke alarm 12/4 Smoke alarm 12/5 Gas odor 12/8 Aircraft accident 12/11 Fire alarm 12/14 Gas leak 12/19 MVA 12/18 Smoke alarm 12/22 Vehicle fire 12/28 MVA 12/29 Garage fire

Beaverhead County Public Health, Barrett Hospital and HealthCare, and the Community Health Center (CHC) received the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine last week and have begun vaccinating people in Phase 1A. On December 18, 2020, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for the Moderna mRNA COVID-19 vaccine. Another vaccine, Pfizer/Biotech, was issued an EUA and other Montana locations received that vaccine earlier in this December. Information about mRNA COVID19 vaccines can be found at CDC.gov. They state that mRNA vaccines are a new type of vaccine to protect against infectious diseases. To trigger an immune response, many vaccines put a weakened or inactivated germ into our bodies. Not mRNA vaccines. Instead, they teach our cells how to make a protein-or even just a piece of protein-that triggers an immune response inside our bodies. That immune response, which produces antibodies, is what protects us from getting infected if the real virus enters our bodies. The efficacy (protective ability) of the vaccine is very high after receiving the two doses. The Moderna vaccine is 94.1% and the Pfizer-BioNTech is 95%. There is limited data available regarding the efficacy of a single dose so completing both doses is very important for optimize protection. mRNA vaccines do not use the live virus that causes COVID-19 and so cannot give someone COVID-19. They also do not affect or interact with our DNA in any way. COVID-19 mRNA vaccines are rigorously evaluated for safety just like other vaccines. Researchers have been studying and working with mRNA vaccines for decades and it is not a new technology. These types of vaccines can be developed in a laboratory using readily available materials which means the process can be standardized and scaled up, making vaccine development faster than traditional methods of making vaccines. The process to administer the COVID19 vaccine is more complicated then with other vaccines and requires preplanning and contacting agencies and personnel that fall into Phase 1A. The vaccine is frozen and requires thawing. Once the vaccine is thawed and the 10-dose vial is punctured, the vaccine must be administered within 6 hours. The vaccine will not be wasted so the vaccine staff must work to find 10 people to receive the vaccine within that 6-hour time frame. Because of this issue, public health is contacting agencies to get numbers of people who are committed to receiving the vaccine. This helps us to determine the amount of vaccine we need to order. At this time, the state health department is indicating we can order vaccine weekly based on our needs. If you or your agency fits into Phase 1A and you haven’t been called by January 11th, please call public health at 683-4771. We anticipate doing small clinics with scheduled appointments for Phase 1A. The COVID-19 vaccines require a second dose and this is accounted for so all persons receiving the first shot will receive the second shot. Because the supply of COVID-19 is expected to be limited at first, the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) has released recommendations for the allocation of COVID-19 vaccines for different populations. These recommendations were made with the goals of decreasing death and serious disease as much as possible; preserve the functioning of society; and reduce the extra burden the pandemic is having on people already facing disparities. Although we don’t know exactly when we will move from one phase to another, Beaverhead County Public Health hopes to begin Phase 1B sometime in January. The vaccination's are free of charge. Phase 1A: Healthcare Personnel such as (not inclusive): Hospital and Clinics Pharmacies EMS Personal Care Assistants Optometrists and Dentists Mental Health Providers Substance Abuse and Domestic Violence Counselors Physical Therapists Long-term Care and Assisted Living Facilities Pioneer Care has received their vaccine from another contracted entity and The Legacy, and the Renaissance facilities will be provided vaccine by contracted pharmacies (Walgreen). Phase 1B: First Responders Education and Childcare Persons aged 75 years and older Individuals in Congregate care and correctional facilities Critical Infrastructure Phase 1C: Persons aged 65 years and older Persons 16-64 with high-risk medical conditions (Moderna vaccine is only for people 18 years and older) Essential Workers Phase 2: Everyone else, aged 16 and older

The Montana Department of Commerce announced Thursday that 15 Montana communities will share $511,000 in federal grant funding through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. These grants will support planning activities for critical infrastructure and community development projects across Montana. “Planning lays the foundation to build vibrant, healthy and prosperous communities,” said Jennifer Olson, Community Development Administrator at Commerce. “These grants will support Montana counties, cities and towns as they plan for community infrastructure projects, develop and preserve affordable homes and create and retain jobs.” CDBG Planning Grants will be awarded to: Beaverhead County: $30,000 for a Growth Policy Update City of Boulder: $37,500 for a Preliminary Engineering Report for the City’s water system City-County of Butte-Silver Bow: $50,000 for an Uptown Central Business District Master Plan Update. City of Choteau: $22,500 for a Growth Policy and Zoning Code Update Town of Circle: $22,500 for the preparation of a Growth Policy City of Columbus: $30,000 for a Parks and Sidewalk Master Plan Fergus County: $30,000 for the preparation of a Growth Policy City of Hamilton: $35,000 for a Growth Policy Update City of Helena: $40,000 for an Affordable Housing Site Development Plan Lewis & Clark County: $50,000 for a Preliminary Architectural Report for Aspen Village Apartments and Queen City Estates City of Libby: $37,500 for a Growth Policy Update Madison County: $25,000 for a Preliminary Architectural Report for the Tobacco Root Mountains Care Center Missoula County: $30,000 for a Missoula County Trails Plan Petroleum County: $35,000 for a Preliminary Architectural Report for the County Courthouse Town of Philipsburg: $36,000 for the preparation of a Growth Policy CDBG planning grants are available to eligible counties, cities, towns and local governments. Local governments may apply on behalf of special districts, unincorporated areas and non-profit organizations. Counties may also apply for planning grants on behalf of tribal utility authorities. For more information about CDBG Planning Grants, visit COMDEV.MT.GOV .

Its Not Too Late to Get Your Flu Shot! CDC and local health officials are strongly recommending the flu vaccine this year. If you have not received one, please call Beaverhead County Public Health at 683-4771. Most insurances pay for flu vaccine, please bring your card. For those adults (19 and older) that do not have insurance, we have FREE vaccine. We also carry the hi-dose vaccine for those 65years and older. This vaccine is not free. Masks are required

A list of what we could find happening around Southwestern Montana this New Years Eve and Day. New Year's Eve Bingo Come join us at the Dillon Elks Lodge for NYE bingo!! Must be over age 18 to play. Social hour 5:30-6:30 p.m. Bingo 6:30-9:30 p.m. $25 buy-in for 2 cards, 12 games. 80% cash payout. First Day Tour Its January 1st, the party is over, and you want to get out of the house, but what is there to do. Go to Bannack and take a tour of the town and mill. Our interpreter is full of stories with some you may have never heard before. Fun for all ages. Remember Bannack can be cold so dress appropriately. Please call the park to make sure plans have not changed at 406-834-3413. New Year's Eve at Candlelight Cafe and Gifts New Year's Eve Chinese dinner, Reservations required, please New Years Day outdoor fun Hosted by Judith Mountain Lodge , Mimosa, Bloody Mary’s wings, Burger sliders, flatbread pizzas, chicken strips and fries. Susie's NEW Year's Eve Soft Opening Join us as we celebrate our launch into 2021! The smoothie bar will be running - we appreciate your support as our team takes this first night to work out the kinks a little bit We'll have children's crafts, our play area will be open, lots of board games available, and great conversation! Come see what Susie's is all about. We'll do a New Year's countdown at 8pm so that families can get to bed at a reasonable time NYE party 🥂NEW YEARS EVE CELEBRATION 🥂 Come help us say goodbye👋 to this CRAZY 🤪 year we call 2020! Party starts at 5 PM! Black tie is optional!

The Bulldogs will open the Frontier Conference portion of the 2020-21 season when they host Montana Technological University Dec. 30. The game is a make-up from the Dec 12 game that was postponed due to Covid precautions. Opening tip from the Straugh Gymnasium is set for 6 p.m. NO FANS TO START THE SEASON : Due to Frontier Conference COVID-19 protocols, spectators will not be permitted in the Straugh Gymnasium until further notice. WATCH LIVE: The games can be viewed online via the Bulldog Sports Network . LIVE STATS: Live stats will be available on Dakstats live stats portal . LISTEN: The games can be heard on the air on KDBM AM 1490 in Dillon or worldwide online . Justin Fox will be on the call providing the play-by-play for all home games this season.

Start 2021 off on the right foot with a First Day Hike at a state park near you. On Jan. 1, Montana State Parks will host First Day Hikes at Lone Pine State Park, Flathead Lake State Park (Wayfarers, West Shore or Big Arm units) Makoshika State Park, First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park, Cooney Reservoir State Park, Travelers’ Rest State Park and Bannack State Park. Being immersed in nature has never been more important for mental health and physical wellbeing. These fun and informative hikes are open to all ages and are family friendly.  Montana State Parks First Day Hikes are available at: Cooney Reservoir State Park – 1 p.m. (Roberts) Join Park Ranger Emily Tyler on a free guided hike on the newly rebuilt North Shore Trail at Cooney State Park. This approximately 1-mile, out-and-back hike is in the foothills of the Beartooth Mountains. It crosses several different biomes and goes through ravines with chokecherries and uphill to a stunning sagebrush steppe. Views from the top include the Beartooth Mountains, Cooney Reservoir and Red Lodge Creek. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, this hike is limited to 10 participants, so please register to reserve a place. For more information and to register for this event, please call 406-252 1289 or email Ranger Emily Tyler at emily.tyler@mt.gov Bannack State Park – 1 p.m. (Dillon) Join Bannack State Park interpretive staff on a unique tour of the streets of Bannack State Park, Montana’s first territorial capitol. Additionally, participants will tour the historic Hendrix Mill. As part of the hike, state park staff will be sharing stories about the significant history of the town and its impact on Montana and the region. For more information, please call the park visitor center at 406-834-3413. ​ Lone Pine State Park & Flathead Lake State Park (Wayfarers, West Shore or Big Arm units) – Jan. 1 -Jan. 31 Lead your park to victory while you work on your New Year’s resolutions during the Battle of the Boots: Lone Pine State Park vs. Flathead Lake State Park! In lieu of First Day hikes this year, state park staff invite you to hike the trails at Lone Pine State Park and Flathead Lake State Park’s Wayfarers, West Shore and Big Arm units. Every time you hike, log your miles at the trail head and help lead your park to victory. At the end of the month, the participant with the most miles from each park will receive a prize. The competition will kick-off on Jan. 1 and conclude on Jan. 31. For more information, please call 406- 755-2706 ext. 3 Makoshika State Park – 11 a.m. (Glendive) Makoshika State Park will be offering a guided hike on the Bluebird trail allows participants to see Makoshika State Park's unique badland topography. The hike is limited to fifteen participants. Participants can register by calling the park visitor center at (406) 377-6256. First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park – 1 to 4 p.m. (Ulm) The gates at First Peoples Buffalo Jump State Park will be open from 1 to 4 p.m. on New Year’s Day for people to come out and enjoy the park's 3-mile, self-guided trail. A ranger will be patrolling the trail between 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. and can answer questions on the trail. For more information, please call 406-866-2217 Travelers’ Rest State Park – 10 a.m. to noon (Lolo/Missoula) The annual First Day Hike at Travelers' Rest State Park will be self-guided in 2021. On Jan. 1, stop by Travelers' Rest State Park between 10 a.m. and noon to take part in a self-guided walk along the main Lewis and Clark loop trail to discover winter animal adaptations. Along the way, interpretive signs will guide you and your family to look for special clues along the park trail. Take photographs of your family participating in the event and share one interesting thing you found along the park trails and email them to maci.macpherson@mt.gov . For more information, please call 406-273-4253. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park - 12:30 p.m. (Whitehall/Three Forks) Join Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park staff to experience "The Off-Switch": A moderate guided hike to observe our most quiet season. When it seems, all life has been turned off in the park, a few animals not only persevere but thrive during the harsh winter months. This hike is available to a maximum of 10 participants. Attendees must call ahead to register. The details of the hike may change due to inclement weather. Please call 406-287-3541 to register or for more information. Hikers should wear weather-appropriate clothing, bring a water bottle and ice cleats or snowshoes if the trail conditions are snowy or icy. First Day Hike participants are encouraged to share their adventures on social media with #FirstDayHikes. For more information on these or other Montana State Parks, visit: stateparks.mt.gov . Visitors to these events must keep in mind social distancing directives – stay 6 feet apart from all non-family members, and if that isn’t feasible or possible, please wear a mask or face covering. Additionally, if you’re feeling ill, please do not attend this event. For more information on COVID-19 in Montana, please visit: covid19.mt.gov. "First Day Hikes" is an annual, nationwide special event co-sponsored by America's State Parks , which originated more than 25 years ago at the Blue Hills Reservation – a state park in Milton, Mass. Last year, more than 33,000 people participated on guided hikes that covered more than 70,500 miles on 1,100 hikes across the country. All 50 states will be participating in the ninth annual national event that encourages everyone to celebrate the New Year with guided outdoor exploration.

The Montana Department of Commerce announced Tuesday that another 10 Montana businesses have been awarded Workforce Recovery grants to rehire workers laid off due to the impacts of COVID-19. The businesses will share a total of $310,000 to support rehiring 53 employees. “Through the temporary Workforce Recovery program at Commerce, Montana businesses that are ready to bring workers back can receive some additional support to sustain those jobs into the future,” said Wayne Johnston, Business Assistance Bureau Chief at Commerce. “Businesses can apply directly for these workforce recovery grant dollars to help refill jobs that were lost due to the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.” The Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund (BSTF) Workforce Recovery program provides reimbursements to businesses for the wages of full-time, permanent jobs created and retained for at least six months, up to 25 jobs per business. Businesses are eligible for a reimbursement of up to $7,500 per job in high-poverty counties , with a $3,750 match per job from the business. A reimbursement of up to $5,000 per job, with a $5,000 match, is available for businesses in all other counties. The program has also assisted 31 other businesses in rehiring 183 workers. The following 10 businesses will receive funding from the temporary Workforce Recovery program to rehire 53 workers: Business Location Award The Sassy Biscuit Billings $15,000 TLC Lingerie of MT LLC Billings $15,000 Big T Three, Inc. Black Eagle $15,000 Equinox Theatre Company Bozeman $5,000 ELE, LLC Great Falls $97,500 Minneapolis House Inc. Great Falls $15,000 Oakwells Commuter Rail, LLC Great Falls $7,500 Slainte Mhath Livingston $110,000 B&K Balcer, Inc. Sidney $15,000 Glacier Raft Company West Glacier $15,000 The Workforce Recovery program was created to support businesses impacted by the pandemic. The ability to establish the temporary program was made possible by a governor’s directive that provides flexibility in the existing Big Sky Economic Development Trust Fund program at Commerce. Funding for the temporary program comes from reverted BSTF Job Creation awards – it does not replace or pause the well-established business development program. Applications are being accepted on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are expended or until December 31, 2020. Businesses can apply directly to the program at MARKETMT.COM/BSTF/WorkforceRecovery .

The Fish and Wildlife Commission meeting originally scheduled for Dec 22 has been moved to Dec. 30 from 9 to 10 a.m. via Zoom. The only item on the agenda is to approve meeting minutes from the previous meetings. There will be no other subject matter. Details on how to access the meeting will be posted on fwp.mt.gov closer to the meeting date. The meeting will also be audio streamed online at fwp.mt.gov. Commission meetings are fully accessible to those with special needs. To request arrangements, call FWP at 406-444-3186. For the full agenda and background on the scheduled topics, visit FWP website Commission. FWP's website offers live streamed audio of each Fish & Wildlife Commission meeting.

Governor Steve Bullock today announced that the second week round of allocations of COVID-19 vaccines will target health care workers at rural hospitals and staff and residents of long-term care facilities. Additionally, Governor Bullock announced that the state’s anticipated allocation of vaccine doses through the end of the year has been reduced by the federal government by 20% from 60,000 down to 48,000 along with other states across the nation. “It’s disappointing news that our anticipated allocations of the vaccine have been reduced, but our priorities remain the same to protect those most vulnerable to severe disease or death from the virus and those who have been serving on the frontlines,” said Governor Bullock. “We are best utilizing the resources available to further reduce the strain on our hospitals and to save lives.” The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) allocated next week’s shipment of 6,825 Pfizer doses to what will be the first of ongoing allocations to long-term care facilities, which includes nearly 300 nursing homes and assisted living facilities. This is a reduction from 10,725 previously anticipated doses. The federal government is contracting with CVS, Walgreens, and Big Sky Managed Care Pharmacy to offer on-site COVID-19 vaccination services for nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The doses will be provided directly to the participating pharmacies to administer. Additionally, the state is expected to receive 18,300 doses of the Moderna vaccine next week. This is the same as previously anticipated, but the number will likely be reduced in coming weeks. The Moderna vaccine includes 100 doses per box and does not require ultra cold storage, making it more easily delivered to rural settings or small facilities. The Moderna vaccines will be shipped to Critical Access Hospitals and Community Health Centers for health care workers on the frontlines of the pandemic. The list of facilities where the vaccine will be sent will be finalized next week. As of today, the vaccine has been administered to more than 3,000 Montana health care workers since the vaccine first became available earlier this week to 10 Montana hospitals. The remaining doses will be administered in the coming days.

Groups or individuals interested in constructing or improving a community fishing pond have until Feb. 1 to apply for a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Community Pond Program grant. The objective of the Community Pond Program is to enhance public fishing opportunities in or near Montana communities by providing funding that may be used to construct or improve a public fishing pond. Applicants must provide at least 30 percent of the total project cost, which can include contributions such as heavy equipment time, construction materials, labor, engineering services and more. Anyone wishing to sponsor a project may apply. A total of $73,000 in grant funds is available for ponds with public fishing opportunities. Since 2003, the Community Pond Program has funded projects that benefit young anglers and their families by providing locations where individuals of all ages can learn angling skills. Additional information on the Community Pond Program, including a grant application form, is available on the FWP website at fwp.mt.gov , then clicking on " Community Pond Program . " Applications, which are accepted each year, must be received on or before Feb. 1. Applicants are required to contact their local FWP fisheries biologist to obtain project support. For more information, contact Michelle McGree, FWP Program Officer, at 406-444-2432 or mmcgree@mt.gov .

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is launching a new website that will improve customer service, make it easier to use, and to provide a more mobile-friendly experience. The completely re-designed website will have more intuitive navigation that will make finding information easier for customers, whether they click to buy a fishing license, reserve a campsite, or find information about hunting regulations. “We’re excited to share this new website with the public,” said FWP director Martha Williams. “At FWP we know people look to us for many of their outdoor recreation opportunities. Getting out timely, accurate and useful information is important to them and to us. The new website will be critical in providing better customer service.” The new site will be optimized for mobile devices, integrate FWP’s social media platforms, and be more friendly for traditional users like hunters, anglers and park visitors, as well as new customers who might be visiting the website for the first time. After the initial launch, FWP will continue to update and enhance the site to accommodate user concerns and preferences, and to expand available content. The new site will be found at the same web address: fwp.mt.gov . The new site will be available mid-day on Dec. 21.

University of Montana Western Head Football Coach Ryan Nourse announced the signing of 22 student-athletes on early signing day for the 2021 season. "We were able to reach our initial goals with this class, really strengthening our offensive line depth and our overall athleticism at defensive back. We secured talented run and hit guys who fit into multiple positions, whether it's linebacker, rush end or tight end. Overall, this is a high achieving group in the classroom as well as on the field. We are excited to see what the future holds for this crew." The Bulldogs recruited Montana very well in the early signing period, with 20 players hailing from the Treasure State. "This was a great year in Montana despite all the challenging circumstances faced. I'm happy for all of the kids in Montana who go to play high school football and for all the guys who found opportunities to play and further their education at Frontier Conference schools. Montana is the home base of our program and our staff did an outstanding job of creating great relationships and building the Bulldogs an excellent class." Thomas Beccari OL/DL 6-3 255 Kalispell, Mont. / Glacier HS Thomas is lineman from Kalispell, Mont. He is a two-time all-conference selection on the offensive and defensive line. In 2020 he was first-team all-state offensive lineman and second-team all-state defensive lineman. He also plays basketball, wrestling, track and lacrosse. The academic all-state student is the son of Chris and Shana Beccari and plans on majoring in environmental science. ChuckyBraverock OL 6-3 270 Browning, Mont. / Browning HS Chucky is an all-state offensive lineman from Browning, Mont. He was an all-conference selection on both sides of the ball. Chucky was the 2020 Western A Heavyweight Divisional Champion in wrestling. The 4.0 student is the son of Rick and Vivian Braverock and plans on majoring in mathematics and secondary education. John Brown OL/DL 6-2 250 Bozeman, Mont. / Bozeman HS John Brown is an offensive and defensive lineman from Bozeman, Mont. He is a two-time all-state and all-conference selection. He is the son of Kate Locke and plans of majoring in health and human performance. Gabriel Delgatty TE/DL 6-3 200 Manhattan, Mont. / Manhattan HS Gabriel is a force on both sides of the ball, leading the team in sacks and receptions. He helped lead the Tigers to two straight state championship games claiming the title in 2020. He is and all-sport athlete that also plays baseball. The academic all-state selection is the son of Jason and Amy Delgatty and plans on majoring in business. Tucker Foster DL 6-0 230 Camas Prairie, Mont. / Plains HS Tucker led the Horseman in tackles, sacks, and forced fumbles for two straight seasons. In 2019 he was named all-conference on the line and as a defensive end. In 2020 he was all-conference defensive end and tight end and received all-state honors. He has played basketball and track where he qualified for state in both sports. He is the son of Buzz and MaryAnn Foster and plans on majoring in elementary education. HIGHLIGHTS Tanner Huff DB 6-0 185 Butte, Mont. / Butte HS Tanner is a defensive back from Butte, Mont. HE is sixth all-time in total tackles in Butte High history. For his career, he as amassed 90 solo tackles, 141 total tackles for 6.7 tackles per game. He also has four interceptions, three pass breakups, and a fumble recovery. He was a member of the 2019 state runner-up team and in 2020 was named all-state and all-conference as a safety. He also played basketball, wrestling and track. In track, he placed second in the division and 12 th in state in the javelin. The academic all-state selection is the son of Pat Huff and Traci McArthur and plans on majoring in business. HIGHLIGHTS DJ Jackson OL 6-4 290 Butte, Mont. / Butte HS DJ is an offensive lineman from Butte, Mont. He is a two-time all-conference selection and was a member of the 2019 state runner-up team. He also qualified for divisional's in track and state in wrestling. DJ is the son of Douglas and Jenifer Jackson and plans on majoring in mathematics and secondary education. HIGHLIGHTS Aiden Jenkins DB 6-1 165 Clyde Park, Mont. / Shields Valley HS Aiden is a wide receiver and defensive back from Clyde Park, Mont. In his career, he totaled 1489 yards rushing, 2114 yards receiving, 70 touchdowns, 254 tackles and 13 interceptions. He is a three-time all-conference and two-time all-state selection. He helped led the Rebels to three-straight playoff appearances including a trip the semifinals in 2020. The three-time academic all-state selection is the son of Aaron and Tara Jenkins and plans on majoring in business. Trevor Lake OL 6-5 220 Polson, Mont. / Polson HS Trevor is a multi-sport athlete from Polson, Mont. He anchored the offensive line for the Pirates and also plays basketball and baseball. He is the son to Tim and Chanel Lake and plans on majoring in mathematics and secondary education. RykerMcElmurry LB 6-0 185 Libby, Mont. / Libby HS Ryker is linebacker from Libby, Mont. In 2020 he led the state in total tackles in all classes and received all-state honors. He is a three-time all-conference selection and was named team MVP. The multi-sport athlete also lettered in basketball and tennis. The Honor Roll student is the son of Joe and Jen McElmurry and plans on majoring in elementary education. Brady Mounts WR/KR 5-9 165 Bozeman, Mont. / Bozeman HS Brady is a wide receiver and return specialist from Bozeman, Mont. In 18 career games he has 620 yards on 31 returns, 113 receiving yards and averaged 3.4 yards per carry. He is a two-time all-conference kick returner and also runs track. He is the son of Carey Mounts and Karena Askeland and plans on majoring in health and human performance. Seth Norslien DB 6-0 210 Lewiston, Mont. / Lewiston HS Seth is a is defensive back and wide receiver from Lewiston, Mont. He is a two-time team captain and two-time all-conference selection as a safety. He helped led the Golden Eagles to three-straight playoff appearances. Seth is the son of Erik and Andrea Norslien and plans on majoring in physical education & health K-12. James Ochs LB 6-0 210 Laurel, Mont. / Laurel HS James is an all-state linebacker and helped lead the Locomotives to two straight state championship games winning the title in 2020. He is also named second-team all-conference as a running back. The academic all-state athlete is the son of Christopher and Wendy Ochs and plans on majoring in business at Montana Western. HIGHLIGHTS David Patterson LB 6-2 205 Libby, Mont. / Libby HS David is a four-year starter at linebacker and three-year starter at tight end for the Libby Loggers. He is a three-time all-state selection at linebacker. He also played tennis, track and basketball. He is the son of Josh and Bobbie Patterson and plans on majoring in business. Ryan Rieckmann WR/K 6-4 200 Cheney, Wash. / Cheney HS Ryan is dual position athlete from Cheney, Wash. He is an all-league honorable mention his junior year. His senior season was canceled due to Covid. He is a two-time all-league MVP in track. He is a member of the Spokane speed academy and placed 6 th at nationals in the javelin at age 16. He is the son of Randy and Denise Rieckmann and plans on majoring in business. HIGHLIGHTS Flint Smith DB 6-2 190 Whitehall, Mont. / Whitehall HS Flint Smith is defensive back and wide receiver from Whitehall, Mont. He is an All-state selection at receiver and second-team all-conference selection at safety. The three-sport athlete is the son of Trent and Joy Smith and plans on majoring in biology at Montana Western. Camren Spencer DL 6-0 245 Bozeman, Mont. / Bozeman HS Camren anchored the D-line on the Hawks 2019 state championship team. He was a part of three-straight state semi-final appearances. He is an all-state and all-conference selection lineman on both sides of the ball. He also placed at state in wrestling. He is the son of Cody and Danica Spencer and plans on majoring in ecology. Reese Stanish DB 5-11 200 Bozeman, Mont. / Bozeman HS Resse is a defensive back from Bozeman High School. In 20 games played he recorded 90 tackles and five interceptions. He is a two-time all-conference selection and was named to the all-state team in 2020. He also plays basketball, baseball and wrestling. He is the son of Josh and Moira Stanish and plans on majoring in physical education & Health K-12. Toby Veltkamp LB 5-11 170 Manhattan, Mont. / Manhattan Toby is a linebacker from Manhattan, Mont. He is a three-time all-conference selection and all-state in selection in 2020. He helped lead the Tigers to two straight state championship games claiming the title in 2020 The academic all-state student is the son of Amy and Phil Veltkamp and plans on majoring in business. Cole Warnaca QB 6-3 210 Leavenworth, Wash. / Cascade HS Cole is a quarterback from Leavenworth, Wash. He is third all-time for passing yards in school history without playing a senior season. He also holds the record for longest complete pass. He is a two-time team MVP in basketball and also played baseball. The Honor Roll student is the son of Rob and Kelly Coulter and plans on majoring in business. HIGHLIGHTS Nicholas Widhalm WR 6-0 150 Power, Mont. / Power HS Nicholas threw for over 1500 yards and 40 touchdowns while running for seven more. The team captain is a two time all-state and all-conference selection. He was also named all-state and all conference in track and basketball. The academic all-state selection and Honor Roll student is the son of Willie and Cristin Widhalm and plans on majoring in business administration. HIGHLIGHTS Austin Wilson ATH 5-10 175 Wolf Point, Mont. / Wolf Point HS Austin was selected as Wolf Point's MVP in 2020, rushing for 532 yards and scored five rushing touchdowns. Wilson caught seven passes for 52 yards and a touchdown. Defensively, Wilson led the Wolves with 86 tackles. He accounted for three forced fumble, one fumble recovery and four tackles for loss, He earned all-conference honors on both sides of the ball as well as being named to the all-state team. He was named academic all-state in three sports. Austin is the son of Ryan and Jenny Wilson and plans on majoring in elementary education. HIGHLIGHTS