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- Annual Witches Ride Brings Halloween Magic to Downtown Dillon
Downtown Dillon was filled with laughter and a bit of spooky fun Thursday night as the annual Witches Ride took to the streets. The event, held each year on Halloween Eve, has become a beloved community tradition. Witches, warlocks, ghouls, and goblins gathered at Depot Park to begin the evening’s festivities, forming a circle around the bubbling cauldron as the witches read from their “ancient scrolls.” After a round of spirited cackles, the group mounted their bikes and rode through downtown Dillon, spreading Halloween cheer with every turn of the pedals. Adding a touch of elegance this year, a few witches opted to trade in their broomsticks for a horse-drawn carriage, delighting spectators along the route. The Witches Ride once again proved to be a charming and whimsical way for the community to celebrate the Halloween season.
- Traffic Alert: Three-Vehicle Crash at Atlantic and Dillon Streets
Wreck has been cleared. Commuters are being urged to use caution this morning as police respond to a three-vehicle crash at the corner of Atlantic and Dillon Streets, near the old Pita Pit. The accident occurred around 8 a.m. while a police officer was conducting a traffic stop. Multiple officers remain on scene managing the situation and directing traffic. Early reports indicate that no injuries have been reported. Drivers are advised to slow down and use alternate routes if possible while emergency personnel work to clear the area.
- Montana Western and Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series Present “The Laramie Project”
The University of Montana Western’s Theatre Program and the Bank of Commerce Performing Arts Series are excited to present “The Laramie Project” on Monday, November 3, and Tuesday, November 4, in UMW’s Beier Auditorium. In October 1998, a twenty-one-year-old student at the University of Wyoming was kidnapped, severely beaten, and left tied to a fence in the middle of the prairie outside Laramie, Wyoming. His bloody, battered body was not discovered until the next day, and he died several days later in a nearby hospital. His name was Matthew Shepard, and he was attacked because he was gay. Playwright Moisés Kaufman and members of the Tectonic Theater Project made six trips to Laramie over the course of a year and a half in the aftermath of the attack and during the trials of the two young men accused of killing Shepard. They conducted more than 200 interviews with people from the community—some directly connected to the case and others ordinary residents of Laramie. The breadth of these perspectives offers a fascinating and deeply human portrait of a town grappling with tragedy. From these interviews and their own experiences, Kaufman and the Tectonic Theater Project created The Laramie Project , a moving theatrical collage that explores both the depths of cruelty and the heights of compassion within humanity. Directed by Stephen Alan Seder, Beatrice Penn, Adeline Michels, and Kendel Puccinelli, the production is brought to life by students from THTR 276: Play Production, featuring members of the UMW Drama Club alongside students from THTR 120: Introduction to Acting. The show also includes Christina Scruggs, a former cast member of the Virginia City Players and the Brewery Follies, who plays Romaine Patterson and the Narrator. The Laramie Project features more than 40 cast members, including UMW students, faculty, staff, and Dillon community members. Performances will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, November 3, and Tuesday, November 4, in the Beier Auditorium located in Main Hall. PG-13 Advisory: This production is recommended for audiences aged 13 and older. It contains mature themes, language, and situations that may be unsuitable for younger viewers. Parental guidance is advised. To purchase tickets, please visit the BOC Performing Arts Series Box Office webpage: www.umwestern.edu/bank-of-commerce-performing-arts-series/box-office . Admission is $16 for general seating, $12 for seniors (65+), youth (18 & under), and military, $10 for UMW faculty/staff, and free for UMW students with a valid student ID. For more information, please contact Assistant Professor of Theatre Stephen Seder at stephen.seder@umwestern.edu or 406-683-7038. To learn more about UMW Theatre and upcoming performances, visit www.umwestern.edu/bank-of-commerce-performing-arts-series/ .
- The Halloween Rundown
It’s the spooky time of year, and with Halloween falling on Friday, the community is buzzing with excitement. While a few festivities have already taken place, there are still plenty of events happening this week leading up to Halloween—and we’ve gathered them all in one convenient place for you. Monday 10/27 Tuesday 10/28 Pumpkin Carving Bash Beaverhead Brewing This Tuesday at 6:00pm! Bring your own carving tools!! Free 4oz Rootbeer Floats to all. Wednesday 10/29 Community Trunk-or-Treat: 6:00 p.m., BARC Parking Lot Thursday 10/30 There have been whisperings amongst the Beaverhead County witches and their familiars that the 8th Annual Dillon Witches Brigade is scheduled again, as always, the night before Halloween, 10/30 at 6p. If the legends and traditions hold true, all witches are called to meet at Depot Park across from the brewery and ride their witchy bicycles around town. Who's to say exactly what will happen since we are dealing with real witches, but a few things are certain- witches welcome everyone (warlocks, young witches, old witches, wizards, tiny witches, large witches, etc etc etc), they do not charge anything to participate, and mischief will be afoot. Friday 10/31 Haunted Library Halloween 10/31/2025 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Dillon Public Library will be opening the books to let out the Haunts Stop by as you head out for Trick-Or- Treating; we are waiting for you… to be Tricked, Treated and Scared on Halloween Night! There will be a few treats, a few games, a few prizes and plenty of scares. Trick or Treating at Barrett Hospital & Clinic Join us for a Spooktacular afternoon of FREE trick-or-treating at Barrett Hospital & Clinic! Visit the departments for treats and smiles on Halloween! Karaoke & Costumes at Macs Last Cast Did you see Zombies, Witches, Cowboys, Cowgirls, or Wizards on Atlantic Street? The Angler Village Inn is super excited for Halloween this year, especially since it's on a Friday! We’ll be celebrating with a delightful array of candy for the next 15 days, but on Halloween Night, we’ll have special gifts and plenty more sugary surprises for the kiddos! Get ready for some spooktacular fun—we'll be all set for Trick or Treating after 4 PM, and if your little ones want to get a head start on the festivities, we’ll be here earlier too! Look out for our sweet and tangy Caramel Apples all Halloween week, and don't miss our frightfully delicious drink concoctions to give you that cozy caffeine boost: The Toasted Ghost: A divine toasted marshmallow latte that magically reveals a ghostly figure in every cup—it's truly pure magic and wizardry! The Pink Goblin “Wicked Lotus”: This enchanting drink features desert pear, shimmering glitter, zesty green apple cold foam, and a playful sprinkle of green apple pop rocks! Wicked fo sho! What do you call a witch who lives at the beach? A sand-witch! And you probably know we have a wicked selection of wraps, brioche, sliders, hoagies and other amazing “Sand-Witch” options!!! We are open for dinner Thursday through Saturday until 8pm, offering plenty of comfort foods crafted from chef-inspired recipes and prepared with the freshest in-house ingredients. On Halloween Night, our “Walking Tacos” will be just $8—perfect for your trick-or-treating adventure! These hearty tacos feature our savory Reminisce ground taco beef, creamy sour cream, smooth guacamole, crunchy shredded lettuce & cheese—all nestled cozily in a large Doritos bag for easy snacking on the run, or should I say, the Zombie Walk!!! Plus, enjoy all craft beers and house white and red wines for just $4 from 4 PM to 8 PM! You will be walking like a Zombie after one of our hearty Linguine dishes like the beef bacon & cheese, or the basil pesto & shrimp linguine! Hey, why did the Vampire go to the Angler on Halloween? Because he heard The Angler was going to be a fang-tastic time! Join us for a spooktacular evening at the Angler Village Inn and let’s make this Halloween a hauntingly good time!
- Bulldogs, Barrett Hospital Team Up to Stand Up to Cancer
DILLON, Mont. — The University of Montana Western athletics department is partnering with Barrett Hospital & HealthCare to host Bulldogs Stand Up to Cancer during the home football game Saturday, Nov. 1, at Bulldog Stadium. The initiative is designed to honor those who are battling cancer, those who have beaten it, and those remembered with love. Fans attending the game will be invited to write the name of loved ones affected by cancer on a special tribute card. A table will be located inside the stadium in the Pioneer Federal Pavilion for fans to fill out their cards prior to kickoff. At the two-minute warning of the first half, everyone in attendance will be asked to stand and hold their cards high, joining together in a powerful moment of recognition, hope and support. The collaboration reflects the shared commitment of Montana Western Athletics and Barrett Hospital & HealthCare to strengthen community well-being and promote compassion across Beaverhead County. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. as the Bulldogs take on Eastern Oregon .
- Kyle Gruhler Named Frontier Conference Men’s Basketball Offensive Player of the Week
Men's Basketball October 28, 2025 Claire Gay Helena, Mont. – Montana Western men's basketball player Kyle Gruhler picked up Frontier Conference Men's Basketball Offensive Player of the Week honors after leading the Bulldogs to a 76-61 victory at Evergreen in their season opener Oct. 25. "Kyle played great this past weekend and really stepped up for us, head coach Patrick Jensen said. "It shows the work he has put in this summer and reflects not only his hard work but our groups unselfishness and the work everyone is putting in." Gruhler posted game highs in both points (31) and rebounds (seven) against the Geoducks. He also added two assists. The Vancouver, Wash., native shot 55.6 percent (10-18) from the field, 45.5 percent (5-11) from beyond the arc, and 100.0 percent (6-6) from the charity stripe in the contest. Additionally, Gruhler scored UMW's first 11 points in the game helping them take the lead over Evergreen early in the game. LOOKING AHEAD Western returns to Straugh Gymnasium this week when they host the Western Classic Thursday and Friday. They welcome Montana Tech, Southern Oregon, and Warner Pacific for a total of four games over the two days.
- UMW Alumnus Benjamin Schwabauer To Present For Young Alums Program
University of Montana Western alumnus Benjamin Schwabauer will present for the Young Alums Program, hosted by the Department of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, on Tuesday, November 4, at 3:30 p.m. in Main Hall Room 218. The mission of the Young Alums Program is to provide current students with the opportunity to engage with Montana Western graduates who earned degrees from the Division of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Schwabauer earned a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies in Drama, Pop Culture, and Visual Arts from Montana Western. During his time on campus, he performed in and designed for numerous productions, including The SpongeBob Musical , Jasper in Deadland , Almost, Maine , and The Witching Time . Following graduation, Schwabauer assisted the Grandstreet Theatre in Helena, Montana, with its production of Noises Off , contributing to the construction of a fully articulating drum revolve. He has also worked on productions at the Helena Avenue Theatre and was an active member of the UMW Drama Club’s Improv Troupe. In his free time, Schwabauer maintains a dedicated writing and art practice. With a passion for storytelling in all its forms and a deep commitment to collaboration, he looks forward to bringing his creativity, technical skills, and enthusiasm to new projects and artistic communities. For more information, please contact Assistant Professor of Theatre Stephen Alan Seder at stephen.seder@umwestern.edu .
- Upcoming Library Programs
Books and Babies - Wednesday 10/29/2025 at 10 a.m. at Dillon Public Library - Theme: Halloween The Library will CLOSE at Noon on Halloween to get ready for the Haunted Library that night. Haunted Library - Friday 10/31/2025 on Halloween - 4 p.m. To 6 p.m. Tricks, Treats, & Scares for ALL Food Drive & Contest: Donate non-perishable food items (not expired). Decorate an item of food with book characters, Thanksgiving themes, buildings, Dillon landmarks, etc. Use your imagination. This will go through November 25 th and all items will be donated to the Food Pantry. Please, when decorating do not attach to food container in way that destroys the label. The type of food and expiration needs to be easily uncovered after contest. Multiple prizes to be awarded. Feel free to enter more than one time.
- Finance Committee Meeting Notice
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday, October 30, 2025 9:00 A.M. Upstairs City Hall Ballroom ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Approval of October 2025 Claims 2. Discuss/Recommend Memorandum of Agreement with CBA 3. Information from MMIA 4. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction of The City 5. Adjournment Committee Members: Russ Schwandt, Chairperson Diane Armstrong Mary Jo O’Rourke
- Montana Western Gears Up For 2025 Homecoming Celebration
The University of Montana Western will celebrate Homecoming and Alumni Weekend from October 27 – November 2, 2025. This week offers an exciting opportunity for alumni, students, faculty, staff, and community members to come together and enjoy a variety of events hosted by Montana Western Alumni & Friends, Bulldog Athletics, the Associated Students of UMW, and Bulldog Life. Schedule of Events Monday, October 27 Office Decorating Contest Begins Homecoming Royalty & Bulldog Spirit Nominations Open Campus Food Drive Begins Pep Rally: 7:00 p.m., Straugh Gymnasium Tuesday, October 28 Office Decorating Contest Registration Deadline: 5:00 p.m. Build-a-Dawg Workshop: 3:00 – 5:30 p.m., Bulldog Lounge Wednesday, October 29 Haunted Homecoming Photo Booth in the Roe House Homecoming Royalty & Bulldog Spirit Nomination Deadline: 5:00 p.m. Community Trunk-or-Treat: 6:00 p.m., BARC Parking Lot Thursday, October 30 Haunted Homecoming Photo Booth in the Roe House Homecoming Royalty & Bulldog Spirit Voting Opens The Series of Christ Opening Reception : 5:00 – 7:00 p.m., Fine Arts Gallery, Main Hall Montana Western Men’s Basketball vs. Warner Pacific Knights: 6:00 p.m., Straugh Gymnasium Homecoming Bonfire with Engine 18: 8:00 p.m., Bulldog Stadium Friday, October 31 Haunted Homecoming Photo Booth in the Roe House Halloween Costume Contest: 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., Dining Hall Montana Western Men’s Basketball vs. Southern Oregon Raiders: 3:00 p.m., Straugh Gymnasium Homecoming Royalty & Bulldog Spirit Voting Closes: 4:00 p.m. Campus Food Drive Closes: 5:00 p.m. Alumni & Friends Social: 4:30 – 7:30 p.m., Keltz Arena Montana Western Bulldog Volleyball vs. Carroll College Saints: 7:00 p.m., Straugh Gymnasium Saturday, November 1 Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame : 9:00 – 11:00 a.m., Lewis & Clark Room Alumni & Friends Tailgate: 10:00 a.m., Bulldog Stadium Tailgating Area ASUMW Tailgate: 12:00 p.m., Bulldog Stadium Tailgating Area Montana Western Bulldogs vs. Eastern Oregon Mountaineers: 1:00 p.m., Bulldog Stadium Montana Western Bulldog Volleyball vs. Rocky Mountain Battlin’ Bears: 5:00 p.m., Straugh Gymnasium Sunday, November 2 Montana Western Women’s Basketball vs. College of Idaho Yotes: 2:30 p.m., Straugh Gymnasium The University of Montana Western would like to thank the Dillon community and surrounding areas for their continued support. We hope to see you at these exciting events! For more information on ASUMW events, visit https://www.umwestern.edu/montana-western-homecoming/ or contact Augustina Wofford at augustina.wofford@umwestern.edu . For more information on Alumni & Friends events, visit https://www.umwfoundation.org/news-events/ or contact Jolene Robbins at 406-683-7303.
- Heiner Siblings Continue To Impress At Blazing Tiger NAIA Classic
Cross Country October 25, 2025 Claire Gay ASHLAND, Neb. – Montana Western's Brant Heiner and Olivia Heiner were the top Bulldog finishers at the Blazing Tiger NAIA Classic Saturday. It is the fourth consecutive race that the pair have been the top finishers for UMW. Western placed 26th as a team on the women's side while finishing 24th in the men's race. Brant Heiner ran a 27:03.6 to finish 125th out of 345 runners in the men's 8k. He was 1.4 seconds shy of a season best time in the 8k. Olivia Heiner clocked a season-best 23:38.0 to finish 61st out of 279 runners in the women's 6k. The other finishers on the men's side included Harrison Silverio (158th, 27:30.8), Cael Thilmony (241st, 28:57.5), Tristan Von Bargen (246th, 29:01.7), and Wyatt Yeager (289th, 30:15.4) Silverio, Thilmony, and Von Bargen each registered season bests in the 8k. On the women's side, Justene Santi (183rd, 25:58.8), Ashley Murnion (258th, 29:54.4), Kylee Wyatt (270th, 32:17.2), and Madison Faulkner (273rd, 32:51.22) rounded out the finishers for Western. Santi and Wyatt posted season-bests in the 6k. LOOKING AHEAD The Bulldogs now turn their sights on the 2025 Frontier Conference Championships, taking place Nov. 7 in Billings, Mont.
- #20 Montana Western Football Routs Simpson 65-0 Saturday
REDDING, Calif. – The #20 Montana Western football team (5-3, 2-2 FC West) dismantled Simpson (0-8, 0-4 FC West) 65-0 Saturday afternoon in Redding. "It was awesome to see the guys respond positively to the adversity that hit them during travel and with the rainstorm in the first quarter of the game," head coach Ryan Nourse said. "It shows growth and strong competitive character. Guys really came to win this weekend, and it showed in the outcome." Western tallied 423 total yards (231 passing, 192 rushing), scored eight touchdowns, made three field goals, and earned 21 first downs in the contest while holding Simpson under 100 yards of total offense (94 yards). They scored on six-of-seven red zone chances and converted on four third down tries. Three Bulldog quarterbacks saw action in the contest, led by Michael Palandri with a game-high 143 yards and two passing touchdowns. Kaden LaPlaunt passed for 88 yards, including a long of 39, and Jordan Jones registered 21 rush yards and ran in a touchdown as well. Jakob Humphrey posted his first 100-yard rushing game of the season, putting up a game-best 105 yards and two touchdowns on 14 attempts. Aidan Lammers also had a strong showing on the ground with 67 yards and two touchdowns while Gavin Vetter tallied 14 rushing yards. Five different UMW receivers tallied over 20 yards each in the game. Eli Nourse caught a game-high 70 yards and one TD, including a long of 41 yards. Seth Shook once again made the most of his game time, with a 49-yard touchdown catch on his lone reception of the game. It marks his 11th receiving touchdown of the season. Colton Cornwell posted two receptions for 53 yards while Rico Figuroa (35 yards) and Jonathan Kirkley (23 yards) caught one pass each. Defensively, UMW forced five turnovers from Simpson and quickly shutdown any attempt to get the Red Hawk offense going. Tyler Schoen showed out with team bests in total tackles (eight) and solo takedowns (five) while also posting 2.0 TFLs (20 yards), 1.0 sacks (eight yards), a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Tyler Walker led the game in tackles-for-loss with 2.5 for five yards as well as two fumble recoveries, including one of the Red Hawks' first play after the half, which he recovered in the endzone to put the Bulldogs up 41-0. Jace Fitzgerald (1.5), Devin Crow (1.0), Manuel Variz IV (1.0), Kale VanCampen (1.0), Mason Stodtmeister (1.0), Tristan Bloomquist (0.5), Keegan Muffich (0.5), Reece Stanish (0.5), and Brady Mounts (0.5) also earned takedowns behind the line of scrimmage. Fitzgerald tied with Schoen for a game-high 1.0 sacks (18 yards) and forced the fumble that Walker recovered just after the half. Muffich ranked second on the team in both total tackles (seven) and solos (three) and snagged an interception. Canyon Sargent also registered one interception in the contest. Maclain Burckley was perfect on the night, making all eight PATs and draining all three field goal attempts, including an incredible 55-yarder, breaking his own stat for longest field goal in the Frontier this season and tying for third-longest in the NAIA in 2025. Burckley also averaged 64.0 yards over five kickoffs and 31.7 yards over three punts in the game. Edward Deward took on the bulk of kickoff duties for Western, totaling 407 yards (58.1 yards/kick) on seven attempts. As a team, the Bulldogs had their vest return-game of the season, racking up 100 yards on three punt returns. Shook posted one return for 44 yards while Cornwell had two attempts for 56 yards and a long of 42. After a slower start to the game, in part due to the downpour in Redding, Western got on the board thanks to an eight-yard run from Humphrey to lead 7-0 after the first quarter. The Bulldog offense exploded in the second frame, posting 27 points after TDs from Lammers, Shook, and Nourse, and two field goals from Burckley. They led 34-0 at the half. Walker kept the fire going with a fumble recovery for a touchdown to start the third period, with Lammer and Humphrey adding to the onslaught with one more touchdown apiece to take the 55-0 lead into the fourth. In the final quarter Burckley sunk his final field goal and Jordan Jones earned the final touchdown on a quarterback keeper. LOOKING AHEAD Montana Western is back at Bulldog stadium for its final two games of the 2025 regular season, hosting Eastern Oregon (11/1) and Arizona Christian (11/8).
- UMW Men’s Basketball Defeats Evergreen 76-61 Sunday Afternoon
Game Recap: Men's Basketball | October 26, 2025 | Claire Gay Olympia, Wash. – The UMW men's basketball program (1-0) opened the 2025-26 season with a comfortable 76-61 win over Evergreen (0-1) Sunday. It marks the sixth straight year that the Bulldogs have won their season opener, going back to The 2020-21 season. "Proud of our guys for finding a way to win on the road when we didn't shoot the ball very well," head coach Patrick Jensen said. "We won the turnover and rebound battle and that got us the win today. Western shot 36.2 percent (25-69) from the field, 35.1 percent (13-37) from beyond the arc, and 68.4 percent (13-19) from the foul line in the contest. The Bulldogs held the statistical advantage in rebounds (41-31), assists (10-8), steals (8-3), and blocks (3-2). They also forced 17 turnovers from the Geoducks while committing 13 themselves. The two sides each scored 18 points in the paint, but UMW outscored Evergreen in points off turnovers (23-18), second-chance points (12-5), fast break points (4-2), and bench points (31-19). Kyle Gruhler went off for a game-high 31 points on 10-of-18 shooting, including 5-of-11 from downtown. He drained all six free-throw attempts and added a game-best seven rebounds and two assists. Emanuel Steward was also in double figures for Western with 13 points, 12 of which came from three. Other Bulldogs on the scoresheet include Quincy Taylor (eight), Billy Carlson (seven), Jacksen Burckley (six), Kolter Merritt (four), David Young (four), and Jacob Ankeny (three). Ankeny was second on the team in rebounds (six) and also tallied one block and one steal. Carlson dished out a game-best three assists in the contest while Mark Huber posted two. Merrit and Burckley shared the game-high with two steals apiece while Merritt led outright in blocks with two. Two quick threes by Kenzel Massey put the hosts up six to start the game, but the Red and Black went on an 11-0 run of their own to take the lead. Both teams swapped the lead a few more times before a three from Steward put the Bulldogs up for good. They built the cushion to as many as 11 over the rest of the period, leading by nine, 39-30, at the half. The Geoducks never got closer than 10 in the second half. Western increased their lead to as many as 18 late in the frame and cruised to the 15-point victory. Seven Bulldogs scored in the half, including 13 from Gruhler. The Geoducks shot 42.3 percent from the floor (11-27), 31.6 percent (6-19) from three, and 73.3 percent (11-15) at the line in the game. Tony Frohlich-Fair paced the team with 23 points while Massey added 10. Frolich-Fair also led the team in rebounds (six) followed by Jemoi Davis (five). Jayson Mathews earned a team-best two assists. Massey, Tyler No, and Zach Jefferson each recorded a steal in the game while Jefferson and Amari Jackson swatted one block apiece. LOOKING AHEAD Western returns to Straugh Gymnasium Oct. 30-31 when they host the Montana Western Tournament. UMW welcomes Montana Tech, Warner Pacific, and Southern Oregon to Dillon for four games over the two days.
- Minor Collision In Safeway Parking Lot
Police and first responders were called to the Safeway parking lot Saturday afternoon for a two-vehicle accident. A red SUV collided with the passenger-side front of a silver pickup truck. Both vehicles sustained visible damage. Beaverhead Ambulance personnel were on scene to evaluate both drivers for injuries. Only minor injuries were reported, and no hospital transports were necessary.
- $100,000 Matching Gift From Walsh W Bar Ranch, Inc Propels Fairgrounds Campaign Toward Finish Line
Twin Bridges, Montana — 10/13/25 — The Madison County Fairgrounds Improvement Foundation today announced a $100,000 matching gift from the Walsh W Bar Ranch, marking a major step forward in the campaign to renovate and modernize the historic Fairgrounds Pavilion. With this generous match, the Foundation is now just $241,000 away from fully funding the pavilion renovation —including year-round restrooms, a warming kitchen, and needed chinking and staining. The renovation plan will restore the 1936 log Pavilion to its original charm while adding key modern amenities to allow for year-round use and greater community comfort. Once completed, the upgraded Pavilion will better serve the 4-H and FFA programs, local schools, and countless community gatherings that define the fairgrounds’ role as Madison County’s “home stomping grounds.” “The fairgrounds have long been a place where generations come together—to celebrate hard work, community, and tradition. We’re proud to help ensure this space continues to serve future generations in a way that honors its past,” said Ken Walsh, on behalf of the Walsh W Bar Ranch. The Fairgrounds Improvement Campaign is part of a broader vision to preserve Madison County’s agricultural heritage while supporting its growing population. The Pavilion renovation represents Phase 1 of the Foundation’s multi-phase plan, which also includes a future multi-purpose events center designed to accommodate youth programs, livestock shows, and year-round events for the entire region. With nearly than $1.4 million already secured, the Foundation invites the community to help close the final gap and take advantage of the Walsh W Bar Ranch’s matching challenge. Every new dollar donated will be matched up to $100,000, doubling the impact of each contribution toward this transformational project. Donations can be made to the Madison County Fairgrounds Improvement Foundation or to discuss a multi-year pledge, please email Chase Rose, Campaign Manager, at chase@bannackgroup.com About the Madison County Fairgrounds Improvement Foundation The Madison County Fairgrounds Improvement Foundation is dedicated to preserving the historic character of the fairgrounds while ensuring its facilities meet the needs of a growing community. The Foundation’s mission is to enhance the visitor experience, support youth programs, and promote economic vitality through year-round community events.
- Bulldog Volleyball Takes Down #24 Dakota State In Five-Set Thriller
Game Recap: Women's Volleyball | October 23, 2025 | Claire Gay DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western volleyball team (11-14, 9-9 FC) defeated #24 Dakota State (14-9, 10-8 FC) in an electrifying five-set match (21-25, 30-28 , 25-14 , 18-25, 15-11 ) Thursday evening. It was the Bulldogs first win over a ranked or receiving-votes opponent since Sept. 5 when they beat then (RV) Valley City State 3-1. "Tonight was a great and gritty team win," Head Coach Katie Lovett said. "We had a lot of people contribute in different ways which really made a difference when it came down to the wire." NOTABLES Three Bulldogs hit at least .300 in the match; Kennedy Lingenfelter (.367), Olivia Rosborough (.304), Antonia Duncan (.300). Four players reached double figures in both kills and digs Duncan earned career highs in both kills (nine) and hitting percentage (.300). Megan Hardman recorded her seventh double-double in her last eight appearances. As a team, UMW hit a blistering .435 clip in the final set. MATCH SUMMARY The match was a nail-biter from the first set, with the two sides trading the lead until the Trojans managed to pull away 25-21 to take the 1-0 lead. The Bulldogs bounced back in the second and leveled things 1-1 with a marathon 30-28 win. The momentum was fully with UMW in the third frame, as the team cruised into the 2-1 lead with a 25-14 win. Dakota State proved their resilience in the fourth, forcing a fifth set 25-18. In the decider, Western took an early lead and held off the visitors, securing the win 15-11. LEADERBOARD Averi Look led the Bulldogs in kills with 16. Taylor Petersen tallied a team-high 31 assists. Madisyn Frazier earned a game-best 20 digs. Kennedy Lingenfelter posted game highs in blocks (6.0) and hitting percentage (.367). Frazier, Petersen, and Megan Hardman each landed one service ace. SPLIT BOX Western held the statistical advantage in nearly every category, including kills (69-59), assists (65-54), digs (92-84), and blocks (11-8). Dakota State won the battle in service aces (5-3). LOOKING AHEAD The Bulldogs return to Straugh Gymnasium next weekend when they welcome Carroll College (10/31) and Rocky Mountain (11/1) for the final two home matches of the 2025 regular season.
- Zoning Commission Meeting Notice
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Tuesday, October 28th, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. ZONING COMMISSION Regular Meeting Agenda 1. Call To Order 2. Review and Approval of October 14th, 2025 Minutes 3. Director of Operations Report 4. Applications for Zoning Compliance Certificates for Review: 2025-046 Stockman Bank Commercial Addition 2025-037 Amended Reynolds Garage 625 S Arizona St 5. Discuss Changes to Title 17.48 Parking with Ad Hoc Committee Recommendations and HB 492 Requirements 6. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Zoning Commission. 7. Adjournment PLEASE NOTE: 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. zoning Commission Members: Justin Rooley (Chair), Mike Watson, Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley


















