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125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana 59725 OPEN SPACES COMMITTEE MEETING Wednesday, February 18, 2026 8:00 A.M. AGENDA 1. Call To Order 2. Discuss Ray Lynch Field Insurance Claim 3. Discuss/Recommend Horseshoe Pits at Dept Park 4. Discuss/Recommend Purchase of Playground Barrier 5. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City 6. Adjournment Committee Members: Raymond Graham, Chairperson Joleen Schultz Jeremy Crawford

BEAVERHEAD COUNTY DUI TASK FORCE AGENDA Wednesday, February 18, 2026 @ 11:00AM Beaverhead County Courthouse Agenda Topics Welcome/Introductions/scribe – Pledge of Allegiance Secretary Report Approval of May 21, 2025 meeting minutes July, 2025 –no quorum, minutes were written August, 2025 – no quorum, no minutes written October, 2025 – no quorum, no minutes written Treasurer Report Re-Organization of the Board 2025 Sober Rides Reconciliation 2026 Beaverhead County DUI Task Report, 2027 plan, and budget - Responsible Sales and Service Trainings Update - County and City Compliance Checks? 2026 Scholarship 2026 Senior Party Support Other Adjourn Mark your calendars - next meeting Wednesday, April 8, 2026

BEAVERHEAD FIRE DIST. #2 405 N. IDAHO STREET DILLON, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY February 17, 2026 5:00 PM AGENDA: I. Call to order II. Approval of Minutes from 01-20-2026 meeting Public Comment III. Approval of Warrants Public Comment IV. Old Business Public Comment V. New Business Public Comment VI. Chiefs Report Public Comment VII. Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda. VIII. Adjournment

The University of Montana Western Fine Arts Gallery is honored to present “Forget Me Not,” a film installation by Montana-based artist and educator Cindy Stillwell. A professor of film at Montana State University whose work has screened internationally, including at Sundance and the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Stillwell is known for her richly textured films created using 16mm and Super 8 formats. The exhibition will open on Friday, February 27 and will feature an opening reception from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. in the Fine Arts Gallery located in Main Hall. “Forget Me Not” is a three-channel immersive video installation. This body of work centers on three flowers—sunflowers, zinnias, and black hollyhocks—each grown by the artist from seed over multiple seasons and filmed throughout their life cycles. The films unfold as a process and a cycle: early growth giving way to high summer, and finally to seed—the promise of what comes next. During the pandemic, Stillwell began cultivating a developer’s garden in her backyard. The flowers and herbs she grew were harvested and used to create plant-based eco-developers for her 16mm black-and-white film stock. Initially filming her garden intuitively, Stillwell gradually began to study these backyard plants more deliberately, using extension tubes on her lenses to examine their intricate structures at close range. This process revealed fragile, sublime details far beyond what the unaided eye could perceive. Through extensive experimentation, Stillwell discovered that calendula flowers and leaves produced the most consistent results as a developer. Tending the garden became a daily ritual—one that mirrors the care required to create her films: cultivating plants, harvesting herbs, foraging weeds, mixing developers, and hand-processing film in the darkened space of her bathroom. These slow, process-driven practices resist haste. For Stillwell, the joy lies as much in the act of tending—to plants and to images—as in the finished work itself. These experiments ultimately led to her current cycle of short films presented in “ Forget Me Not” . In addition, the gallery will present “ Mating for Life” , a mid-length (48-minute) essay film by Stillwell, made in 2012, that follows sandhill cranes during their annual migration to the Platte River in Nebraska. While grounded in the natural history of the North American sandhill crane, the film is filtered through Stillwell’s personal reflections and sense of wonder—posing questions about what these birds might teach us about the idea of “mating for life,” and what happens if we do not. Cindy Stillwell is a film artist and educator living and working in Montana. Her work is distinguished by richly textured imagery shot on 16mm and Super 8 film, often hand-developed using plant-based eco-processes or otherwise physically altered to create ethereal, trance-like visual experiences. Through these experimental approaches, she explores human relationships with landscapes and the plants and animals that inhabit them. In Stillwell’s own words: “My approach to making films is like a collector. I gather images and sounds, arrange and rearrange them as I try to come to an understanding of my place within a landscape and within time. This practice teaches me how to look and listen, to slow down and observe intentionally. I am drawn to boundaries and liminal spaces—where one thing becomes another—and to the edges of photographic reality, where documentation gives way to expression and reveals the hand of the maker. Using tools such as 16mm and Super 8 film, and eco-processing with plant-based developers, allows the film itself to be treated as a material object. This handmade quality asks viewers to slow down—to engage less in consumption of the image and more in meditation.” Stillwell is a professor of film at Montana State University, where she mentors graduate students in the Science and Natural History Filmmaking program. Her work has screened internationally at museums and festivals including Sundance, the International Film Festival Rotterdam, Edinburgh International Film Festival, Melbourne International Film Festival, Tampere Film Festival, and the Museum of Modern Art’s Documentary Fortnight. She has been a fellow at MacDowell and Ucross Foundation twice, as well as at the Wurlitzer Foundation and Jentel Foundation. “Forget Me Not” will be on display in Montana Western’s Fine Arts Gallery from February 27 to April 7. Gallery hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 to 11:00 a.m. and 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. The February 27 reception is open to all and will feature light refreshments. We look forward to seeing you there! For more information, please contact Montana Western Fine Arts Gallery Coordinator Jennifer Boysen at jennifer.boysen@umwestern.edu .

DILLON, Mont. –  UMW Football has bolstered its coaching staff with the addition of Jahidi West and Avery Wold as assistant coaches, head coach Ryan Nourse announced Wednesday.   West previously served at Valley City State University as the Linebackers Coach in 2024 before taking on the role of Special Teams Coordinator and Safeties Coach in 2025. During his time at VCSU, he coached Gavin Gerhardt to Frontier Conference Second Team All-Conference honors in 2025 and Levi Olson to NSAA Second Team All-Conference honors in 2024. A former linebacker at Valley City State, West set multiple school records and earned multiple NSAA All-Conference honors during his playing career. A native of Stockton, Calif., he earned his Bachelor of Science in Sports Management in 2023 and will receive his Master of Education in Communication in August 2026. Avery Wold began his first season as a member of the Bulldog coaching staff in the Spring of 2026. Wold most recently coached wide receivers at University High School in Spokane, Washington. During his tenure, he coached standout athlete Grant Petersen, who earned Second-Team All-League (GSL) honors as a sophomore. Prior to his time at University High School, Wold served as a student assistant coach at Methodist University in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where he worked with the linebackers and assisted with the special teams unit. As a player, Wold competed at both the collegiate and junior college levels. He played safety and linebacker at Citrus College in Glendora, California, before continuing his playing career as a linebacker at Methodist University. During his time at Methodist, he earned academic honors. Wold graduated from Methodist University with a degree in Business Administration and a minor in Sport Management.

DILLON, Mont. — Twenty-seven students from across Beaverhead County competed in this year’s Beaverhead County Spelling Bee, held at the 4-H Building at the Beaverhead County Fairgrounds. The competition began with the traditional opening rounds featuring simpler words before gradually increasing in difficulty. Several spellers were eliminated in the first round, and by the second round the field had been narrowed to 10 competitors. As the spelling intensified, the competition was reduced to four spellers. The word silhouette marked the first elimination at that stage. Paparazzi, pumpernickel, and isolation were all spelled correctly, leaving three spellers remaining. The next round featured charitable, obliterate, and influential, all of which were spelled correctly. Exaggerate eliminated one competitor, followed by a misspelling of tendencies. The word riddance then tripped up another speller. Refinery was spelled correctly, but haphazard was missed, bringing the field back to three. Varnish was spelled correctly by two spellers, while oregano eliminated the third, leaving two finalists. In the final rounds, baptismal and solstice were both misspelled. Ferret and folklore were spelled correctly, leading to a back-and-forth spell-off. The word forfeit caused another stumble, but pyramid was spelled correctly. The final word, felonious, was spelled correctly, crowning Colt Swasey as the 2026 Beaverhead County Spelling Bee Champion. Rhett Baldwin finished as the runner-up.

The University of Montana Western, in partnership with the International Block and Intensive Learning and Teaching Association (IBILTA), is pleased to invite attendees and presenters from around the world to the IBILTA 2026 International Conference, a fully virtual event bringing together educators, researchers, and practitioners to explore innovative approaches to learning and teaching. The conference will take place September 29–30, 2026. The conference theme, “Sharing Practice, Sharing Stories, and Looking Forward,” emphasizes collaboration, reflection, and innovation during a period of significant transformation in higher education. Through case studies, research presentations, and practitioner-led discussions, participants will examine how block, intensive, and experiential learning models are shaping the future of teaching and student engagement. About the Host Institution The University of Montana Western is a dynamic, innovative undergraduate university located in Dillon, Montana, in the scenic Rocky Mountains. With more than 65 full-time faculty and approximately 1,200 students, Montana Western has earned numerous national rankings for delivering high-quality, affordable education. Montana Western is the only public four-year institution in the United States offering Experience One (X1)—experiential learning delivered entirely through a block schedule. Students take one course at a time for three hours a day over 18 days before moving on to the next course. This structure supports immersive learning experiences such as fieldwork, labs, undergraduate research, study abroad, and interdisciplinary teaching. Faculty at Montana Western are deeply committed to mentoring students and supporting their transition from university life to professional careers. About IBILTA The International Block and Intensive Learning and Teaching Association (IBILTA) is a membership-based organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and practice of block-based, intensive, and immersive approaches to learning and teaching. IBILTA supports a global community of educators through initiatives such as the Journal of Block and Intensive Learning and Teaching (JBILT), international conferences, thought leader series, and regional chapters. More information is available at  https://ibilta.org/ .  Conference Purpose and Themes The IBILTA 2026 Conference aims to: Share case studies and lived experiences from diverse educational contexts Build global community through storytelling and reflective dialogue Innovate teaching and learning practice during times of change Conference sub-themes include: Innovation and Research Fostering innovation in an increasingly competitive educational landscape Preparing learners for diverse career pathways through research training Engaging students as active collaborators in research Advancing the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Applying educational theory during disruption and transformation Professional Development and Professional Practice Continuous learning and skill enhancement Collaboration and professional learning communities Reflective practice and self-evaluation Curriculum, Assessment, and Feedback Curriculum adaptation for emerging trends Stakeholder engagement, including students and industry partners Regulation, metrics, and measurement Enhancing Learning, Teaching, and Student Experience Teaching approaches, learning environments, and technology Engagement, collaboration, and real-world learning Comprehensive, student-centered learning experiences Conference Leadership Conference Co-Chairs Matt Raffety, University of Montana Western —  matt.raffety@umwestern.edu Pushpa Sinnayah, Victoria University (Australia) —  puspha.sinnayah@vu.edu.au Christian Gilde, University of Montana Western —  christian.gilde@umwestern.edu Conference Committee Members Leslie Johnson, University of Montana Western Goodson Dzenga, University of Montana Western Tyler Seacrest, University of Montana Western Thomas Yeager, Victoria University (Australia) Askil Mostafa Alvi, Victoria University Participation and Engagement Details regarding the Call for Proposals, Registration, Program Schedule, and Sponsorship Opportunities are available  on the IBILTA website . The conference will actively engage IBILTA Regional Committees across Australia and Asia, Europe and Africa, and the Americas, encouraging broad international participation. For updates and additional information about the IBILTA 2026 Conference, visit  https://ibilta.org/ .

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, February 11th, 2026 8:00 A.M. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA     PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     A.        DISCUSS AND APPROVE A PLAN FOR APPOINTING A NEW MAYOR                         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. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528, allowing permission for microphone and camera (if using a computer go to https://zoom.us/j/7703166528 ) and use Passcode 4245. Please mute your microphone until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245.

DILLON, Mont.  — The Dillon Volunteer Fire Department was called out Saturday afternoon for what was initially reported as a trailer house fire. Upon arrival, crews discovered the incident was actually a field fire, with portions of the field and a nearby woodpile burning. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire, keeping damage to a minimum.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana SPECIAL FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING THURSDAY, February 12, 2026 9:00 A.M.                                                                                                              ~ AGENDA ~     1.           Update on Findings & Facts 2.           Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction of The City 3.           Adjournment   Committee Members: Russ Schwandt, Chairperson Mary Jo O’Rourke Jeremy Crawford

Beaverhead County — BiCentennial Inc. is proud to announce its sponsorship of the senior meal held on the last Wednesday of every month at the local Senior Center, reinforcing the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting older adults in Beaverhead County and the Ruby Valley in Madison County. The monthly meal provides seniors with an opportunity to enjoy a nutritious meal while connecting with friends and neighbors in a welcoming, supportive environment. Through this sponsorship, BiCentennial Inc. aims to help reduce food insecurity, encourage social connection, and promote overall well-being among area seniors. This initiative directly reflects the organization’s mission: “The mission statement of the Bicentennial Corporation is to provide support for services that will enhance and improve the lives of senior citizens in Beaverhead County and Ruby Valley in Madison County.” “We are honored to support a program that brings people together and makes a meaningful difference in the daily lives of our senior community members,” said Fred Morganthaler, Vice President of BiCentennial Inc. “These meals are about more than food—they’re about dignity, connection, and care.” Seniors are encouraged to attend the monthly meal and take part in this ongoing tradition of fellowship and support.

The University of Montana Western is proud to announce Heather Hoyer, Board of Regents Member and Superintendent of Great Falls Public Schools, as the Commencement speaker for its 129th Annual Commencement Ceremony to be held Saturday, May 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. in Bulldog Stadium. Now in her 31 st  year as a professional educator, Hoyer has dedicated her career to strengthening education at every level, from preschool through higher education and workforce development. A native of Trego, Montana, and a graduate of Lincoln County High School in Eureka, Hoyer is the daughter of a rural schoolteacher and has spent her life advancing educational opportunity for students across the state. Hoyer’s professional experience spans adult education, dual credit instruction, coaching, middle and high school science teaching, school administration, and executive leadership, culminating in her role as Superintendent. She is widely recognized as a champion for hands-on learning, innovation, and collaboration, and was named the 2024 Montana ACTE Administrator of the Year for her leadership in Career and Technical Education. Her connection to Montana Western runs deep. Hoyer earned her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Science Education from Western Montana College (now UMW) in 1994. It was during her time in Dillon that she met her husband, Keith Hoyer, also a dedicated educator. Together, they have raised two daughters who continue the family’s proud Bulldog legacy and commitment to public education. Taylor (Hoyer) Mavrinac, a UMW alumna, teaches art in Belt, while Kassie (Hoyer) Dixon teaches math and science at Great Falls High School. Hoyer continued her education at the University of Montana, earning a Master of Education in Educational Leadership and Development and a Superintendent Endorsement. She has served on numerous education-focused boards, including the University of Providence Board of Directors, the University of Montana Pre-Medical Sciences Advocacy Committee, and the Montana State University–Northern Education Advisory Council. She was appointed by the Governor to serve as a Regent for the Montana University System Board of Regents, where she brings the perspective of K–12 public education to statewide decision-making. Within the Great Falls community, Hoyer serves on the Board of Public Health, Great Falls Development Alliance Board, Great Falls Area Chamber of Commerce Board, and Benefis Hospital Board. Outside of her professional work, she and her family enjoy cheering on their favorite teams and exploring Montana’s outdoors. “Montana Western is thrilled to welcome alumna Heather Hoyer back to campus as our 2026 Commencement speaker,” said Michael Reid, Chancellor of the University of Montana Western. “Heather embodies the values we strive to instill in our graduates, including a deep commitment to learning, service, and leadership. Her journey from UMW student to statewide education leader is inspiring, and we are excited for our graduates to have this opportunity to learn from her experiences as they begin their own next chapters.” For more information about Commencement, please contact the Montana Western Registrar’s Office by calling 406-683-7371 or visit  https://tinyurl.com/UMWComm26 .

DILLON, Mont.  — The Dillon Public Library  invites the public to attend a series of Child Abuse and Neglect Awareness programs  sponsored through a Montana Children’s Trust Fund  grant. The programs are part of the initiative “Strengthening Families, Safeguarding Futures: A Community-Based Approach to Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect.” Programs will be held January through May, with additional presenters, workshop titles, and bios continuing through July. Program Schedule January Heather Denny  (Whitehall/Bozeman)📍 January 24, 2026 | 11:30 a.m. February Margaret Kachadurian 📍 February 7, 2026 | 11:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. “Healthy Parents, Healthy Children – Mindfulness for Families”Natalie Paulbeck  and Joel Stewart , Dillon Chief of Police📍 February 24, 2026 | 5:30 p.m. March Brenda Kirkley and colleague 📍 March 10, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Brenda Kirkley and colleague 📍 March 24, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Izzy Simonsen  and Women’s Resource Center 📍 March 28, 2026 April Maria Emmer-Aanes 📍 April 14, 2026 | 6:00 p.m. Melissa Winger 📍 April 21 & 28, 2026 | 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. May Heidi Gibson 📍 May 2, 2026 Additional presenters, workshop titles, and biographies will be announced on an ongoing basis from January through July.

DILLON, Mont. - The Montana Western football program has signed 45 student-athletes to its 2026 class, head coach Ryan Nourse announced Wednesday. The class consists of 38 freshmen and seven transfers. The Bulldogs are bringing in 22 native Montanans and 16 out of state athletes. A brief profile on each athlete and a quote from Nourse follow below. "Really proud of the work our staff did building relationships with these young men and bringing them into the Bulldog family," head coach Ryan Nourse said. "This is a very athletic and well-rounded group positionality. We addressed the line of scrimmage well on both sides of the ball, especially on the offensive line. I believe we will see in the next several years this group will have a huge impact on the success of Bulldog Football." Aaron Anderson, Linebacker 6-2, 210, Whitefish, Mont., Whitefish HS Anderson is a linebacker out of Whitefish, Mont. He led the team to three playoff appearances and a semi-final berth in 2025. He earned first team all-conference honors as both a tight end and a linebacker, second team all-conference as an offensive lineman, and was selected for the 2025 Shrine game. He is the son of John and Shandi Anderson and plans to major in early childhood education. Stetson Armes, Offensive Line 6-3, 250, Sidney, Mont., Sidney HS Armes joins the Bulldogs from Sidney HS. He earned first team all-conference honors in the 2025-26 season. He is the son of Trevor Armes and Stacia Roy and plans to major in farm business management. Thomas Avery, Safety 6-2, 220, Yacolt, Wash., Battleground HS Avery is a safety out of Battleground High School in Yacolt, Wash. He was a two-time all-league player. He is the son of Jesse and Carey Avery. Cormack Batt, Safety 6-3, 165, Missoula, Mont., Big Sky HS Batt comes to Dillon from Big Sky High School in Missoula. He has received two first-team all-state, two first team all-conference, and one second team all-state honors at safety. He is the son of John and Anecia Batt and will major in K-12 Physical Education and Health. Barrett Bessette, Linebacker 6-0, 190, St. Regis, Mint., St. Regis HS Bessette joins the Bulldogs from St. Regis High School. He is a two-time all-state honoree on both the offensive and defensive side of the ball. He is the son of Jeannine Carr and will major in business. Rogan Boomer, Defensive End 6-3, 215, Pocatello, Idaho, Century HS Boomer comes to Western from Century High School in Pocatello, Idaho. He is a two-time all-conference football honoree. He is the son of Abe and Stacy Boomer and plans to major in kinesiology. Rashard Boone, Quarterback 6-0,195, Puyallup, Wash., Rogers HS Boone joins Western football from Rogers High School in Washington. He has received all-league second team and all-league honorable mention honors as a quarterback. He is the son of Jessica and Alexander Boone and will major in kinesiology. Easton Brooks, Wide Receiver 6-2, 175, Columbia Falls, Mont., Columbia Falls HS Brooks joins the Bulldogs from Columbia Falls High School. He is a two-time all-state wide receiver. In his senior season he led the team to a conference championship and competed in the Shrine Game. He is the son of Alan and Iolandie Brooks. Aiden Burke, Center 6-0, 250, Billings, Mont., Billings West HS Burke is a center out of Billings, Mont. In his senior season, he was named offensive line MVP. He also picked up all-state and all-conference honors, and was a team captain. He is the son of Craig and Jenn Burke and plans to major in business administration. Caden Figgins, Defensive End 6-4, 240, Belgrade, Mont., Belgrade HS Figgins is a defensive end from Belgrade, Mont. At the club level, he helped his team place second at state twice (2024, 2025), and third once (2023). He is the son of Mark and Jill Figgins. Camden Fitzpatrick, Cornerback 5-11, 150, Post Falls, Idaho, Post Falls HS Fitzpatrick joins Western from Post Falls high school. He received multiple defensive back of the year honors in his high school career. He is the son of Roger and Crystal Fitzpatrick and will major in Kinesiology. Trace Giomi, Defensive Line 6-3, 205, Townsend, Mont., Townsend HS Giomi is a lineman from Townsend, Mont. In football, he was the 2025 defensive player of the year, earned the 2025 DK 26 award, was named to the all-conference team and second team all-state. He also won the 2024 Abe Fandich award. He is the son of Tom Giomi and Carrie Harper and will major in business. Damian Herrera, Offensive Line 6-3, 300, Truckee, Calif., Truckee HS Herrera is a California native joining the Bulldogs from Truckee High School. He helped his team to two state championships. He is a two-time first team all-state selection, one time second team all-state, and two-time all-league honoree. He is the son of Felipe and Cristian Herrera and plans to major in kinesiology Rudy Hess, Safety 6-0, 175, Missoula, Mont., Sentinel HS Hess is a safety out of Missoula, who also competed in track and field for Sentinel High. He has received, first team all-conference and all-state honorable mention at safety, first team all-conference and second team all-state as an all-purpose player, and was named 2026 offensive MVP. He is the son of Erik and Kelli Hess and plans to major in environmental science. Trenton Hoveland, Linebacker 6-0, 200, Townsend, Mont., Broadwater HS Hoveland is a linebacker out of Townsend, Mont., and follows in brother Trey Hoveland's (2026 Bulldog football grad) footsteps here at Western. He was an all-conference punter for Broadwater High. He is the son of Justin and Raeann Hoveland and is majoring in business. Krew Hunter, Quarterback 5-11, 185, Laurel, Mont., Laurel HS Hunter joins Western from Laurel High School. He is a two-time first team all-state and two-time first team all-conference honoree at quarterback. He is the son of Gome and Comeec Hunter. Carter Jensen, Free Safety 5-11, 180, Missoula, Mont., Sentinel HS Jensen is a free safety from Missoula. He earned second team all-conference and all-state honorable mention honors. He is the son of Kurt and Marissa Jensen and will major in business. Trapper Kinamon, Defensive Line 6-2, 250, Conrad, Mon., Conrad HS Kinamon is a defensive lineman out of Conrad, Mont. He is a three-time first team all-conference honoree as an offensive lineman and one-time first team all-conference selection on the d-line. He is the son of Terry and Rachel Kinamon and is planning to major in kinesiology. Austin Knoeller, Inside Linebacker 6-0, 200, Drummond, Mont., Drummond HS Knoeller joins the Bulldogs from Drummond High School. He is a two-time divisional champ, and two-time runner up. He received two all-state honors, three first team all-conference selection and inside linebacker, and two-time first team all-conference selection at fullback. He is the son of Juergen Knoeller and Melissa Peters and will major in business. Tucker LaPlaunt, Wide Receiver 6-0, 165, Belt, Mont., Belt HS LaPlaunt is a wide receiver out of Belt, Montana. He is a one-time state champion and two-time state runner-up. He is also a two-time all-state and all-conference honoree. He is the son of Daphne and Jeremy LaPlaunt and brother of current Bulldog Kaden LaPlaunt , and plans to major in business. Slater Lords, Wide Receiver 6-0, 180, Belt, Mont., Belt Valley HS Lords comes to Western from Belt Valley HS. He is a wide receiver who led his team to three conference championships, one conference runners-up finish, one state championship, and two state runners-up. He received multiple all-state and all-conference accolades in his high school career. He is the son of Turk Lords and Quincie Jones and will major in business. Keeshawn Love, Running Back 5-10, 190, Fernley, Nev., Fernley HS Love is a running back out of Fernley, Nev. He is a three-time first team all-conference selection, three-time all-state honoree (two second team, one first team), and was named the offensive league MVP his senior season. He set the 3A state record for rushing yards in a game (526). He is the son of Gina and Bryan Love and plans to major in psychology Dainian Martinez, Defensive Back 6-0, 180, Blackfoot, Idaho, Blackfoot HS Martinez joins the Bulldogs from Blackfoot High School. He earned first team all-conference recognition as both a defensive back and kick return specialist. He is the son of Jerry and Suzette Martinez and plans to major in psychology. Jrney Mataafa, Linebacker 5-10, 205, Dillon, Mont., Beaverhead County HS Mataafa is a home-grown player from Dillon. He picked up all-state honors as a linebacker in 2025. He is the son of Junior and Sheynoa Mataafa and plans to major in business. Riley McCullar, Free Safety 5-11, 185, Fernley, Nev., Fernley HS McCullar joins the Bulldogs after a standout high school career in Nevada. He is a two-time all-state honoree at defensive back and one-time all-state at wide receiver. He is the son of Jacob and Aja McCullar and plans to major in business administration. Brody Munson, Wide Receiver 6-0, 180, Boise, Idaho, Mountain View HS Munson is a wide receiver who helped lead Mountain View High School to three state quarter final appearances. He received three first team all-conference honors and one second team all-state nod. He is the son of Josh and Nicole Munson and will major in business administration. Cavan Rowe, Defensive End 6-0, 205, Spring Creek, Nev., Spring Creek HS Rowe joins the Bulldogs out of Spring Creek Nev. He led Spring Creek High School to a state championship. He received second team all-league honors. He is the son of Brigham and Tabitha Rowe and brother of current Bulldog Liam Rowe . Connor Schmitendorf, Offensive Line 6-3, 300, Battle Ground, Wash., Battle Ground HS Schmitendorf comes to Western from Battle Ground High School. He received $A GSHL second team honors as an offensive lineman. He also received the 2026 Leadership Team Award. He is the son of Jeffrey and Jamie Schmitendorf. Hunter Schmoll, Tight End 6-2, 215, Bothell, Wash., Bothell HS Schmoll is a tight end out of Bothell High School in Washington. He received all kingco crown first team honors as a tight end. He is the son of Karen Schmoll and Marc and Shelly Schmoll and plans to major in business. Israel Shrode, Running Back 5-9, 178, Orting, Wash., Orting HS Shrode joins the Bulldogs from Orting High School. He earned first team all-league honors as a running back. He is the son of Duane and Elizabeth Shrode and will major in business. Darwin Spotted Jr., Defensive End 6-4, 240, Bozeman, Mont., Gallatin HS Spotted Jr. is a defensive end who helped his team to a state semifinals appearance. He earned all-state honors on the D-line and was a two-time all-conference honoree. He is the son of Darwin Spotted Sr. and Crystal Spotted and plans to major in kinesiology. Trooper Stiles, Wide Receiver 5-7, 160, Malta, Mont., Malta HS Stiles is a receiver from Malta, Montana who led Malta High to the 2025 Class B State Championship title. He is a two-time conference champion and earned all-conference honors. He is the son of Trevor Stiles and Katie Gates and will major in kinesiology. Preston Stingley, Defensive Line 5-11, 235, Kittitas, Wash., Kittitas HS Stingley is a defensive lineman out of Kittitas High School. He earned one first team all-conference, one second team all-conference, and one all-conference honorable mention honor. He led his team to a league championship and state tournament appearance. He is the son of Ruley and Annie Stingley and plans to major in business. Tomasi Tonga, Offensive Line 6-2, 315, Pearl City, Hawaii, Pearl City HS Tonga joins the Bulldogs from Pearl City High School. He is an offensive lineman who helped his team to a 6-3 league record his senior year. He is the son of Atieli and Sulieti Tonga. Dane Ueland, Defensive Tackle 5-11, 255, Belgrade, Mont., Belgrade HS Ueland is a defensive tackle from Belgrade, Mont. He is a two-time academic all-state honoree. He is the son of Jeremy and April Ueland and wants to major in kinesiology. Erick Valencia, Running Back 5-10, 180, Winnemucca, Nev., Albert M. Lowry HS Valencia comes to Western from Winnemucca, Nev. He was named to the all-state second team as a running back in 2025 and all-state first team honoree in 2024. He is the son of Jaime and Edith Valencia. Levi Winters, Defensive Back 5-11, 170, Florence, Mont., Florence HS Winters is a defensive back who led his team to two state championships and four conference championships. He earned first team all-state accolades his senior year as well as three first team all-conference nods. He is the son of Jeremy and Kelley Winters and will major in business. William Wittgow-Busch, Offensive Line 6-2, 270, Olympia, Wash., Olympia HS Wittgow-Busch is an offensive lineman from Olympia, Wash. He was named an SPSL 4A honorable mention. He is the son of Cavan Busch and Elizabeth Wittgow-Styles and plans to major in business. In addition to 38 freshmen, the Bulldogs have brought on seven transfer student-athletes to bolster the roster and add experience. Elijah Anderson, Wide Receiver 6-2, 210, Woodland, Wash., Idaho State Anderson joins the Bulldogs as a redshirt-freshman from Idaho State. He was a two-time league MVP at Woodland HS. He also earned all-state recognition as an all-purpose player in 2025 and as a running back in 2024. He is the son of Matt and Tracee Anderson. Brady Casagranda, Linebacker 6-0, 220, Bozeman, Mont., Montana Tech Casagranda is a transfer from Montana Tech, where he spent the 2025 season, and a graduate of Bozeman High School. During his high school career, he helped his team to the 2023 AA state championship. He was a three-time first team-all state selection as a linebacker while also picking up all-state honors as a running back. He is the son of Scott and Debi Casagranda and plans to major in business. Jack Daskam, Tight End, 6-1, 220, Lakeport, Calif., College of the Redwoods Daskam is a transfer from College of the Redwoods, where he played two seasons. In his sophomore season he caught 13 receptions for 193 yards. He is the son of Casey and Tina Dye and is majoring in business. Paxton Fitch, Quarterback 6-1, 215, Billings, Mont., Miles CC Fitch is a transfer from Miles CC, where he had signed to play baseball. He is also a graduate of Skyview High school in Billings. At Skyview he earned two all-conference accolades in football. He is the son of Matt and Kristina Merrill and is majoring in business. Jaxon Jensen, Quarterback 5-11, 197, Cedar City, Utah, McPherson College Jensen is a transfer from McPherson College. He is also a graduate of Canyon View HS, where he led the team to two semifinal appearances. He earned 2022 all-region MVP, two all-state second team nods and two all-region first team honors. He is the son of Tyler and Danielle Jensen and is majoring in business. Chancellor McDaid, Defensive Back 5-8, 195, Noxon, Mont., Minnesota Morris McDaid is a transfer from Minnesota Morris, where he spent the 2025 season. He graduated from Noxon High School in 2025 and led his team to two 6-2 seasons. He also received an all-state academic nod. He is the son of Curtis McDaid and Felicia Kroll and is majoring in business and computer applications education. Sam Wulff, Quarterback 6-0, 205, Pismo Beach, Calif., Cal Poly Wulff is a transfer from Cal Poly, where he spent the 2025 season. He graduated from Arroyo Grande HS in California and led the team to a league championship. He was a first team all-CIF (California Interscholastic Federation) player. He is the son of Paul and Sherry Wulff and is majoring in business.

DILLON, Mont.  — The University of Montana Western  has announced that Michael Feuling , Director of Athletics, has accepted another career opportunity and will conclude his service at Montana Western in mid-May. Feuling has served as Athletic Director for more than four years, providing leadership and direction for Bulldog Athletics while supporting student-athletes, coaches, and staff across all programs. “I am deeply grateful for my time here and for what we were able to accomplish over the past four-plus years,” Feuling said. “I want to thank Chancellor Michael Reid  for giving me a chance and believing in me. His support was critical to our success. The coaches and staff truly epitomize the Bulldog Way, and it has been an honor and privilege to work alongside each of them.” Feuling also reflected on the lasting impact of Montana Western’s student-athletes and campus culture. “To our student-athletes: there is no greater reward than building relationships with you and watching you grow and achieve your goals,” Feuling said. “One of the first signs I saw on campus was from MJ Simkins: ‘Leave it better than you found it.’ It is my sincere hope that I have done just that. The future of Bulldog Athletics is bright, and my family and I will always be proud Bulldogs.” Chancellor Reid expressed appreciation for Feuling’s contributions to the university. “We are grateful to Michael for everything he has done for Bulldog Athletics and for the University of Montana Western,” Reid said. “His dedication has made a lasting impact on our campus and athletic programs. We thank him for his service and wish Michael and his family the very best in this next chapter.” The University of Montana Western said it will share additional information regarding the leadership transition in Athletics in the coming weeks.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, February 4th, 2026 6:45 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE TRANSPORTATION COORDINATION PLAN 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA   PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE   A.        PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA   B.        MINUTES 1.         Approve the Minutes of January 21, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting 2.         Approve the Minutes of January 27, 2026 Special City Council Meeting   C.        PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS   1.         Appoint Brendan Boily to Probationary Patrolman 2.         Discuss/Accept Citizen Complaint Forms   D.        MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Appoint the Following to the Planning Board a.            Tara Stevens, Council Member b.            Todd Reiser, City-County Liaison  2.         Appoint the Following to the Board of Adjustments                         a.         Mary Jo O’Rourke, Council Member                         b.         Don Deem, Council Member 3.         Appoint Russ Schwandt, Council Member to the Library Board 4.         Appoint Jeremy Crawford, Council Member to the Following Boards                         a.         Tree Board                         b.         City/County Health Board 5.         Appoint Sherri Ann Deitz to the City/County Health Board 6.         Discuss Sub Committee Assignments   E.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         City Attorney – Ed Guza 2.         Planning Board - Raymond Graham, Tara Stevens 3.         Zoning Commission – Joleen Schultz, Mike Brumbaugh                         a.         Accept the Minutes of November 18, 2025 Regular Meeting 4.         Board of Adjustments – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem            5.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey                         a.         Accept Director of Operations Report 6.         Police Department –Police Chief Joel Stewart                         a.         Accept Incident Report for January 2026 7.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose 8.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox 9.         Library Board –Russ Schwandt, Council Member; Kim Denny, Library Director 10.       Tree Board -  Jeremy Crawford, Council Member;             F.        REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Ordinances & Facilities – Joleen Schultz, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Jeremy Crawford a.         Approve the Minutes of January 28, 2026 Regular Meeting                                     i.          Approve Fund Summary for Claims for January 2026                                     ii.         Approve Claims by Vendor Report for January 2026                                     iii.        Approve Mayor’s Report to the Finance Committee for January                                                                    2026                                     iv.        Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for January 2026 3.         Public Services – Mike Brumbaugh, Chair; Don Deem, Tara Stevens 4.         Open Spaces – Raymond Graham, Chair; Joleen Schultz, Jeremy Crawford 5.         Public Works – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Raymond Graham, Mike Brumbaugh     G.        PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE  AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY   H.        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. Join the meeting with Zoom ID: 770-316-6528, allowing permission for microphone and camera (if using a computer go to https://zoom.us/j/7703166528 ) and use Passcode 4245. Please mute your microphone until you desire to comment. Any problems or questions, call City Hall at 683-4245.

DILLON, Mont. –  UMW Volleyball has strengthened its coaching staff with the addition of Payton Spoja as an assistant coach, head coach Katie Lovett announced Monday. "We are really excited about Payton joining our staff," Lovett said. "She had a great playing career at multiple levels, has connections within Montana and the surrounding region, and has a solid coaching foundation under the guidance of great coaches at her previous university." Spoja joins the Bulldogs after two seasons at NCAA DII member Concordia Irvine. In her time with the Golden Eagles, she coached one first team all-conference player and four second team all-conference athletes. Spoja was a collegiate volleyball player who finished her career at the University of Saint Katherine (2021-22). Prior to Saint Katherine, she had a lot of success and the College of Southern Idaho (2018-19). She led the team to the NJCAA DI National Title in 2018 and was named to the NJCAA DI National and Regional All-Tournament Teams. She began her collegiate athletic career at the University of Montana, where she played for one season (2017). Born in Bozeman, Spoja has deep Montana roots. She is a fifth-generation Montanan on her mother's side and sixth-generation on her father's. She grew up in Boise, Idaho and returned to Montana during high school. Her dad and brother both played basketball for the University of Montana.