Updated traffic is moving and the exit is open back up. DILLON, MT  – As of 12 p.m. on Wednesday, the northbound interchange ramp is closed to southbound traffic after a semi truck carrying fertilizer tipped over, blocking the lane. First responders are on the scene managing traffic and working to clean up the fertilizer spill. Crews are also working to remove the truck and reopen the lane as quickly as possible. This is an ongoing situation, and we will provide updates once the lane is cleared.

UMW Sports Press Release DILLON, Mont. –  UMW Football begins its 2025 season on the road at rival Montana Tech Thursday evening. The Bulldogs and Orediggers are set for a 6 p.m. MT kickoff at Alumni Stadium in Butte.  GAME COVERAGE  Thursday at Montana Tech- Watch Live , Live Stats  FROM THE DAWG HOUSE  Montana Western, tabbed fifth in the nation in the first NAIA poll of the season, start out on the road for the third time in the last four seasons. It also marks the earliest rivalry matchup between UMW and Tech in recent memory, with the two sides having enjoyed mid-season bouts since at least 2017. The Bulldogs are coming off a 10-2 2024 season and enter Thursday's clash as back-to-back Frontier Conference regular-season champion.  PLAYERS TO WATCH  The Bulldogs brought back some key players from its 2024 title-winning squad: Offense Michael Palandri (QB)- threw for nearly 3,700 yards and 34 touchdowns in '24. Eli Nourse (WR)- 1,205 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. Jake Humphrey (RB)- 948 yards, 12 touchdowns. Defense Jace Fitzgerald (LB)- 81 tackles, nine tackles-for-loss, 4.5 sacks. Keegen Muffich (LB) 98 tackles, seven tackles-for-loss, 1.5 sacks. Tyler Walker - 45 tackles, 10 tackles-for-loss, 6.0 sacks.  NEW-LOOK FRONTIER CONFERENCE  With the expansion of the Frontier Conference prior to the 2025 season, UMW now competes in the West Division of the league. The six other programs in the division are Arizona Christian, Carroll, College of Idaho, Eastern Oregon, Simpson, and Southern Oregon. This season, the Bulldogs will play four "non-conference" contests, two on the road (Montana Tech, RMC) and two at Bulldog Stadium (MSU-Northern, Dickinson State) before FC play begins at Southern Oregon.  THE OPPONENTS  The Orediggers, who finished 9-3 and reached the second round of the 2024 NAIA Football Championship Series, returned some important players on both sides of the ball this season. Third-Team All-Frontier wide receiver and First-Team All-Frontier return specialist Levi Torgerson (685 return yards, 487 receiving yards, six touchdowns) is back, as are Second-Team All-Frontier offensive lineman Shannen O'Brien and Second-Team All-Frontier defensive lineman Anthony Oakes (57 tackles, 11 tackles-for-loss, 5.5 sacks). All-Frontier honorable mentions Payton Gonser (defensive back- 66 tackles, two tackles-for-loss) and Derek Pearse (tight end- 73 receiving yards, five touchdowns) also return to strengthen Montana Tech's 2025 squad.  LOOKING AHEAD  Montana Western welcomes MSU-Northern Sept. 6 for its 2025 home opener. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m. MT.

VIRGINIA CITY – Lands in Madison County managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will be under Stage II fire restrictions beginning Aug. 28. FWP follows the county’s lead in placing fire restrictions on its properties within a particular county. These restrictions at FWP sites will be in place until further notice. FWP urges people to use caution while recreating due to dry conditions and fire danger. Under Stage II fire restrictions, the following activities are prohibited at all times on FWP lands: Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fire or campfire Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site or while stopped in an area at least 3 feet in diameter that is barren or cleared of all flammable materials Stage II fire restrictions also prohibit operating any internal combustion engine from 1 p.m. to 1 a.m. daily, except motorized vehicles on roads and trails designated for motorized travel. To learn more and to see current fire restrictions for other areas of Montana, click here .

It’s Montana’s biggest weekend, and summer is winding down! But don’t worry — we’ve got you covered with all the Labor Day weekend happenings, all in one convenient place on Southwestern Montana News . Make the most of this final summer weekend! Click here for PDF 2025 Beaverhead County Fair Book Wednesday August 27th 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Commercial and Food Booth Set-up, Fairgrounds 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Judging of Open Class Entries, All Non-Animal Departments Noon - 8:00 p.m. 4-H Building Open for entries 3:00 p.m. 4-H Cat Show and Judging, 4-H Building 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. * Check in of all 4-H, FFA, and Open Class Livestock (not including Poultry & Rabbits) 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Katie Hall 6:30 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Open 4D Barrel Race (Online registration only!) Thursday August 28 8:00 a.m. 4-H, FFA & Open Market Swine Judging followed by Swine Showmanship Class 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. 4-H Building Exhibits Entry (NO entries accepted after 8:00 p.m. or on Friday morning) 10:00 a.m. PRCA Breakaway Roping and Barrel Racing Slack 1:00 p.m. 4-H, FFA & Open Market Beef Judging followed by Beef Showmanship Class 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 4-H & Open Poultry & Rabbits Entry (NO entries accepted after 8:00 p.m. or on Friday morning) 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Katie Hall 5:00 p.m. *4-H, FFA & Open Market Sheep Judging followed by Sheep Showmanship Class 5:00 p.m. Entries close for Saturday Arena Events 6:00 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Team Roping Classic, Harry Andrus Arena 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Karaoke: Prickly Pear Productions Thursday night cruise in on main Join us every other Thursday from 6–8pm, starting May 29th (weather permitting), for our summer Classic Car & Motorcycle Cruise-In Series! The last show of the season will roll out on September 4th. Come line Main Street in Sheridan with classic cars, motorcycles, and friendly faces. Whether you’re showing off your ride or just coming to admire, all are welcome—including those just cruising through! Friday August 29 7:00 a.m. 4-H Breeding Sheep, Breeding Beef, and Breeding Hog Interviews 8:00 a.m. Beaverhead County Fair Team Break-Away Roping (Enter at 7 a.m., Rope at 8 a.m.) 9:00 a.m. Judging of 4-H & Open Poultry & 4-H Poultry Showmanship Interview Judging of all 4-H Building Exhibits - Building closed during interview judging. 9:30 a.m. 4-H and Open Breeding Beef, Sheep, Swine, and Dairy Judging. Show schedule determined by Superintendents. 10:00 a.m. Judging of 4-H Rabbits & 4-H Rabbit Showmanship 10:00 a.m. Beaverhead County Fair Team Branding, Harry Andrus Arena 11:00 a.m. Judging of Open Class Rabbits 2:00 p.m. 4-H Round Robin Showmanship Contest, Lundberg Show Ring 4:00 p.m. FFA Livestock Judging Clinic 5:00 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Ranch Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena 7:00 p.m. Silent Auction Bids start, 4-H Building (Bidding ends at 7 p.m. Saturday) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. Karaoke: Prickly Pear Productions Saturday August 30 (Buildings Open 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.) 8:00 a.m. Saturday Arena Events, Harry Andrus Arena (Entries close at 5 p.m. Thursday) 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. 4-H & FFA Livestock Sale Buyer’s Barbeque, Lundberg Show Ring 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Morgan Seymour 1:30 p.m. 4-H & FFA Market Livestock Sale 4:00 p.m - 6:00 p.m Karaoke: Prickly Pear Productions 7:00 p.m. Silent Auction Bids End, 4-H Building 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. 4-H Silent Auction - pick up articles in 4-H Building 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Rabbit Check Out 7:30 p.m. Dillon Jaycees PRCA Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena (Tickets available online at www.dillonjaycees.com ) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. *Check-out of all Companion Animals Sunday August 31 Dillon Jaycees Labor Day Concert Clint Black performing live at The Beaverhead County Fairgrounds with Tanner Laws! Get your tickets today at www.dillonjaycees.com 7:00 a.m. PRCA Team Roping, Calf Roping and Steer Wrestling Slack 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 4-H Building Check-out 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Open Exhibits Check-out. PLEASE PICK UP YOUR EXHIBITS. ALL EXHIBITS MUST BE PICKED UP. THANKS FOR YOUR COOPERATION. 9:00 a.m. *All 4-H, FFA & Open Livestock pens (hogs, sheep, beef, goats, etc.) need to be cleaned by 9:00 a.m. No Exceptions. 1:00 p.m. Dillon Jaycees PRCA Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena (Tickets available online at www.dillonjaycees.com ) 8:00 p.m. Dillon Jaycees Concert, Harry Andrus Arena (Gates open at 7 p.m.) Clint Black with opener Tanner Laws (Tickets available online at www.dillonjaycees.com ) Monday September 1 Dillon Volunteer Fire Dept Labor Day pancake breakfast at the Dillon Fire hall 405 N Idaho St from 7 till noon Cost $10.00 includes all the traditional breakfast items.

From Dillon Police Department Facebook Post: SCAM ALERT: An Individual claiming to be Dan Fields is calling people stating jury notifications were missed and a Federal Court Summons and Warrant has been issued for their arrest. These claims were then followed by an attempted extorsion for money. If you have a Warrant for your arrest, law enforcement will not accept payment over the phone to make the warrant go away. Please call the Dillon Police Department (406-683-3701) or the  or Beaverhead County Sheriff's Office (406-683-3700) if you receive one of these calls. Do not give out personal information. Joel Stewart Assistant Chief of Police

Twin Bridges, MT  – A firefighter working on the Bivens Creek Fire on Sunday afternoon passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest while actively engaged in fire suppression efforts. According to reports, the firefighter was on the ground, working tirelessly to control the blaze when he experienced a sudden cardiac emergency. Rapid medical assistance was provided by a line paramedic on scene, but despite efforts to revive him, resuscitation was unsuccessful. Support services are being offered to those impacted by this tragic loss.

HELENA – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks has closed fishing on the entire Big Hole and Jefferson Rivers due to low stream flows. The closure is effective starting at midnight Aug. 23.   The closures are in accordance with drought management plans on both rivers. On the Jefferson River, the drought plan allows for a river-wide angling closure when stream flows fall below 280 cubic feet per second (cfs) at Twin Bridges. On the Big Hole, the drought plan allows for a river-wide angling closure when flows fall below certain thresholds. Streamflows fell below 100 cfs at Wise River and 150 cfs at Melrose, prompting the closure.  “With no precipitation forecasted for either river, angling closures are a necessary step to protect the fisheries in both rivers,” said Adam Strainer, Fisheries Division Administrator for FWP.   The closure on the Jefferson River is in place from the confluence of the Beaverhead and Big Hole rivers to where it hits the Missouri River. The Big Hole River closure is in place from Saginaw Bridge in its headwaters region to where it meets the Beaverhead River to form the Jefferson River.   The closures will be in place until further notice.  More information on restrictions and closures can be found online here.

HELENA – The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission finalized wolf hunting and trapping regulations during a lengthy meeting Thursday where commissioners heard passionate comments from people around the country.   The Commission debated several amendments to the 2025/2026 Furbearer and Wolf Hunting and Trapping Regulations proposal that FWP released in early July. Though the regulations cover all furbearer trapping and wolf hunting and trapping, the central focus of the discussion was crafting a new set of wolf regulations.   For the 2025/2026 wolf hunting and trapping season the Commission approved a 452 statewide wolf quota, which includes a sub-quota of 60 wolves in Region 3, and separate quotas of three wolves each in Wolf Management Units 313 and 316.  The Commission established that a person may harvest 15 wolves via trapping and 15 wolves via hunting, provided that five wolves from each method of take are harvested in FWP Region 1 or Region 2. Hunters must purchase a wolf license for each wolf they harvest via hunting, but they may purchase up to 15 licenses before going afield.   The Commission approved a regulation allowing a trapper to gain prior authorization from FWP to temporarily leave the live wolf in the trap for the purpose of radio collaring by FWP. In this circumstance the wolf would not be harvested, but the trapper would immediately notify FWP, per the prior authorization arrangement, and a FWP official would radio collar the wolf and release it from the trap.   The Commission approved regulation changes to require that all harvested wolves must be presented to FWP for inspection within 10 days of harvest for pelt tagging, tissue sampling, and tooth extraction. A trapper must present the hide and skull for tagging and sampling within 10 days of harvest. It is now illegal to leave a wolf hide and skull in the field after harvest, even if the hunter or trapper doesn’t want to keep the animal.   The Commission removed trapping setbacks on roads closed to motor vehicle and OHV traffic (except snowmobiles and unless in a designated no trapping area) in Mineral County and on the Spotted Bear Ranger District in northwest Montana.   FWP staff will finalize the regulations and release them online in the coming days. Printed regulations will be available later this summer.  Archery wolf season opens Sept. 6. Trapping season will open Dec. 1, except within the geographic area identified by federal court order. Just like last season, trapping within the geographic area will be limited to Jan. 1 to Feb. 15. The geographic area is all of FWP regions 1, 2 and 3, and portions of regions 4 and 5. This area, with limited trapping dates, is the same as last year, according to the FWP proposal.    Outside this geographic area, wolf trapping closes March 15, 2026, or when a quota is met.

UMW Sports Press Release DILLON, Mont. - First year UMW Women's Basketball Coach Ryan Sullivan announced the hiring of assistant coach Wes Knox on Friday. "This hire is special. Not only is Wes an incredibly knowledgeable and passionate coach, but he's also one of my closest friends and former college teammates. We've been through a lot together, as players and as coaches." UMW Head Coach Ryan Sullivan said. "I couldn't be more excited to have him by my side again, this time at the collegiate level. Wes brings a lot of strengths to the table, but in my opinion his greatest strength as a coach is his ability to empathize with athletes and with his colleagues. He obviously brings a depth of knowledge in the game of basketball, but he truly understands the people he works with. He will be an asset to this University and the people he works closely with will be better for their time spent with him." Knox joins Montana Western after two years as assistant girls' basketball coach at Sheridan HS in Sheridan, Wyo., where he coached under Sullivan. Prior to his time at Sheridan, Knox gained a wealth of experience at the AAU and club level. Knox gained collegiate basketball experience as a player for both Montana Western (2013-14) and Montana (2012). The Dillon, Mont., native earned his bachelor's from University of Montana in 2019. A 2012 graduate of Beaverhead County HS in Dillon, Knox was a three-sport athlete in high school, playing basketball, football, and running track.

The University of Montana Western Foundation and UMW Athletics are excited to announce the 33rd Annual Bulldog Bash, to be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, in the Keltz Arena on the University of Montana Western campus. The day kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with a community tailgate at Bulldog Stadium, followed by the Montana Western vs. Carroll College football game at 1:00 p.m. Alumni, supporters, and community members are invited to come out and show their Bulldog pride. Following the football game, join us for the Bulldog Bash. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. for no-host cocktails, and a roast beef dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m. The evening will feature a student-athlete speaker and a special video presentation offering a behind-the-scenes look at a day in the life of UMW student-athletes, highlighting football player Jack Kirkley and volleyball player Jordan Olson. Guests will also have the chance to participate in a silent auction and an exciting live auction lineup. Funds raised during the Bulldog Bash support scholarships and program enhancements for UMW’s student-athletes. The event provides a fun and meaningful way for alumni, boosters, families, and friends of the University to connect and support Bulldog Athletics. Advance ticket purchase is required. To purchase tickets, please visit  https://tinyurl.com/DawgBash25  or call Kelly Allen at 406-683-7306. For more information, or to make a donation to the silent or live auction, please contact Jolene Robbins, Special Events and Alumni Coordinator, at 406-683-7303 or  jolene.robbins@umwestern.edu . UMW Athletics and the Foundation thank the community for their continued support and look forward to another memorable Bulldog Bash!

The University of Montana Western’s Women’s Volleyball team will be conducting a Dillon street cleanup on Saturday, August 23 rd in conjunction with the Kiwanis Club of Dillon. Coach Katie Lovett and her team will kick off the sweep at 10:00a at JC Park and will return for a light lunch at noon. Kiwanis Club President Mike Miller said this is the second such effort on the team’s part. “Our streets could use some ‘tender loving care’ every once in a while, and the Bulldogs have provided some of that care in the past. I’m sure they’ll do a great job again.” Drivers should be aware of the presence of the female athletes along various streets in town during those two hours.

Dillon Public Library upcoming 2025 programs: August 28, 29, & 30 - Annual GIANT Book Sale at the Beaverhead County Fairgrounds - Commercial Building. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. There will be many books (new & used), and other items to purchase. $1.00 a book or a bag/box for $10.00. Money earned goes towards our programs throughout the year. There will also be a phone charging station. Create your own I SPY bottles for $10.00; you get to pick 20 items from variety of choices. The library will be closed August 28 - September 2 while staff is at book sale and for the Federal Holiday. A chance to win a Rodeo ticket or a Concert ticket: Those who buy books from our Book Sale at Fairgrounds on Thursday, Friday & Saturday will get entered into the drawing: 1 entry for $5.00 spent, or 3 entries for $10.00 spent on books or items at sale. THANK YOU to the Dillon JAYCEES for donating the tickets to the Dillon Public Library! Beaverhead County Fair book is now online: https://beaverheadcountymt.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/2025BeaverheadCountyFairBook.pdf For those who do not have computers at home, the library will have entry forms available FREE of charge. We will also print the rules and needed information for the entries you are actually entering. We can get you online on a public computer if you'd like to read it at your own pace. This is a way for the library to thank the Beaverhead County Fairgrounds for all that they do for us throughout the year. Books & Babies will start up again on September 10, 2025. 10 a.m. at the Dillon Public Library. We have changed to Wednesday mornings this year. Geared towards infants and young children, ages 0-5. September 13 – 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. - Dillon Public Library will have a table along with Xuan Li from the University of Montana-Western at the Family Outreach’s third annual Dillon Resource Fair “Adventure Awaits”. This will be at the Dillon National Guard Readiness Center. Learn about local resources available to families and have the chance to connect with families and other organizations in the Dillon area. They will have kid’s activities, prizes donated from local businesses, fire truck, Ambulance and Sherriff’s vehicle tours, and free family photos. September 17 - 5:30 p.m. at the Dillon Public Library - Women's Financial Literacy Workshop: This workshop is FREE and designed to cover a range of important financial topics, including budgeting, saving, investing, and credit management. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask questions and receive personalized advice from financial experts. The workshops are free of charge. Registration is recommended, as space may be limited. To register, please contact Dillon Public Library or use link: forms.office.com/r/SNGmPqhfi3 Call Dillon Public Library with any questions at (406)683-4544

The University of Montana’s Co-Lab for Civic Imagination brings its exciting theatre event "State of Mind" to Dillon on September 15th. State of Mind is a unique and engaging performance and public dialogue event that is touring to over forty Montana communities from September 2024 to May 2026. The project consists of a free theatre performance for the general public, and workshops for local students, school faculty & staff, mental & behavioral health professionals, public health staff, and law enforcement. The performance will take place at 7pm on September 15th at Frontier Events Center, with workshops taking place earlier in the day at the high school. The workshops will inspire a portion of the performance, ensuring that Dillon’s residents’ voices and ideas are a part of the performance, thereby providing a unique experience for each community that State of Mind visits. The Dillon residency closes out the following morning, September 16th with a community coffee meeting at 9am at the Bank of Commerce meeting room. This will be an opportunity for people to reflect on the workshops and performances, and to discuss potential action and engagement around mental health in Dillon.  State of Mind was developed by a group of professional Montana artists, facilitators, and mental & behavioral health professionals in response to the troubling trends in Montana’s behavioral and mental health outcomes. 35% of adult Montanans report symptoms of anxiety or depression, and Montana ranks in the top five states for highest rates of suicide across all age groups. With so many Montanans living in rural areas, it can be challenging to connect with professionals like psychiatrists, psychologists, therapists, or addiction counselors in times of crisis or just for regular counseling support.  Health providers and policy experts believe that in addition to having more professionals around the state, we also need to change how we talk about mental health with one another – neighbor to neighbor, Montanan to Montanan. And that’s where State of Mind comes in.  State of Mind director Michael Rohd says, “ The arts are a powerful way to not just share stories, but to gather and imagine the futures we want to see and build together. State of Mind’s goals include tackling stigmas around seeking help, making local resources more visible and contributing to local capacity for community care. We aim to bring diverse Montana voices into health policy & resource conversations across our state, and to make opportunities for those with local knowledge to lead the way as Montana continues to battle our behavioral health crisis.”  In the 2024-25 school year, State of Mind toured to 17 communities around the state, sparking important, positive conversations among over 2000 participants. The impact is felt in both rural communities, and bigger towns. Conrad DeBruycker, the principal of Conrad H.S. says that “ State of Mind stands out as one of the best conversations I’ve had with both students and staff.”  In Butte, community advocate Cassie Weightman, emphasizes “It’s a stunning blend of storytelling – they leave communities stronger, more open, and more connected.”  Here in Dillon, Miranda Zent, a local prevention specialist, and one of the lead organizers of the local event says, “ State of Mind tackles the mental health crisis in Montana through cultural imagination—engaging audiences, sparking creativity, and amplifying the voices and stories of local communities. Our Beaverhead County coalition is proud to welcome this energetic team of artists and educators to Dillon, and we look forward to joining the transformative conversations that have made State of Mind a catalyst for reimagining mental health in Montana.”  After the Dillon engagement, State of Mind will be heading to Forsyth, Miles City, Billings, Boulder, and Harrison among many others. See the full tour calendar here: https://www.umcivicimagination.com/tour-calendar   For more information about State of Mind and the people involved, visit: https://www.umcivicimagination.com/ or follow them on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61556751081311   Local support for State of Mind’s residency has been provided by:  Southwest Montana Prevention – https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089208395519  Beaverhead County Public Health – https://beaverheadcountymt.gov/public-health-2/   Beaverhead County High School – https://www.bchsmt.com/   Beaverhead County Mental Health Local Advisory Council https://beaverheadcountymt.gov/mental-health-local-advisory-council/   The Women’s Resource Center – https://www.wrcmt.org/  Dillon Bank of Commerce – https://www.bofc.bank/  CONTACT Dillon’s event organizers:  Miranda Zent, Prevention Specialist, Southwest Montana Prevention – bhprevent@swmtprevent.org   CONTACT State of Mind :  Josh Aaseng, Producer of Community Partnerships – josh.aaseng@umt.edu   Michael Rohd, Director – michael.rohd@umt.edu

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that the Opportunities in Rural Economies Loan Participation Program, a new capital access opportunity for rural Montana businesses, will open for applications on Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025. “Commerce is excited to launch this program and begin reviewing impactful projects that support rural Montana,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio. “This is a unique opportunity for local lenders and economic development partners to collaborate in delivering capital to businesses that need it most.” The ORE Loan Participation Program is designed to expand access to capital for rural Montana businesses by partnering with local lenders to provide low-interest loans. The program supports projects that drive job creation, strengthen basic sector industries and grow rural economies across the state. Commerce will open the application portal for the ORE Loan Participation Program on Oct. 1, 2025. The portal will remain open through Oct. 28, 2025, giving lenders and economic development partners four weeks to submit eligible loan applications. Loan applications must be submitted through an external partner organization or supported by an enrolled EDO. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the open application window. The application process is competitive; EPOs or lenders are encouraged to start eligibility conversations early to ensure strong, complete submissions. Prior to Oct. 1, lenders and economic development organizations wishing to participate should review and execute the Lender Loan Servicing Agreement or the EDO Enrollment Agreement. Lender Loan Servicing Agreement The new LLSA serves as the governing document for multiple state-administered loan participation programs, including the ORE Loan Participation Program, the Wood Products Revolving Loan Fund and the Automation Loan Program. The LLSA simplifies participation, reduces administrative burden and creates a consistent servicing structure for lenders engaged across these targeted business support programs. The agreement reflects Commerce’s commitment to strong public-private partnerships and the shared goal of expanding access to capital for Montana businesses. To support lender engagement and answer questions, Commerce will host a virtual information session on Thursday, Aug. 28 at 11 a.m. The session will include a walk-through of the agreement, program overviews and time for questions. Lenders can access the meeting via mt-gov.zoom.us . Individual support is also available for lenders interested in reviewing the agreement or participating in these programs. EDO Enrollment Agreement Eligible EDOs may now submit an application to become enrolled EDOs. Enrollment is required to participate in the ORE Program and qualifies organizations to access program incentives, support loan participation applications and apply for the upcoming ORE Capacity Building Grant, which is set to launch in early 2026. The EDO enrollment application will be available through Commerce’s ServiceNow platform and will remain open for the duration of the program. Once a complete application is received, Commerce will review and issue a decision within three weeks. Approved applicants will then receive an enrollment agreement via DocuSign for execution. EDOs planning to support a loan application when the ORE Loan Participation Program opens on Oct. 1 must submit their enrollment application by Sept. 10 to allow sufficient time for review and approval. Early application is strongly encouraged to avoid delays and ensure timely participation in upcoming funding rounds. For more information about the ORE Program, the LLSA, eligibility criteria for EDOs or to access the enrollment portal, visit commerce.mt.gov or contact Business Resource Partner Josh Bennett at 406-841-2748 or josh.bennett@mt.gov .

UMW Sports Press Release DILLON, Mont. - UMW Volleyball's Jaiden Perez has been named Erck Hotels/ Frontier Conference Defensive Player of the Week, the league office announced Monday afternoon. This marks the first Player of the Week honor of her career. "It's an awesome start to the season to have Jaiden receive defender of the week," Head Coach Katie Lovett said. "She has worked really hard at her role as our first line of defense. She had a very solid weekend that we are hoping to build on." Perez impressed in the Bulldogs' opening tournament of the season. The Las Vegas, Nev., native tallied 15 total blocks (1.3 blocks per set) over four matches. She was instrumental in Montana Western's sweep of Saint Francis, recording six blocks while also hitting a .333 clip and adding five kills. In the final game of the tournament, Perez doubled down on her stout defensive play with five more blocks. She committed just one blocking error in 12 sets played. LOOKING AHEAD The Bulldogs continue their season at the Hells Canyon Grand Invitational Aug. 29-30. They will face off against Walla Walla (8/29), Arizona Christian (8/30), and tournament host LC State (8/30).

UMW Sports Press Release HELENA, Mont. - Montana Western women's cross-country squad was picked seventh and the men's team was picked eighth in earned the top spot in the 2025 Frontier Conference Cross Country Preseason Coaches' Poll, the league office announced Tuesday. "We are excited to race against strong opponents this season," UMW Head Coach Taylor Grove said. "The conference expansion added a lot of quality programs and it will be good for the team to face this level of competition." The Bulldogs look to improve on last seasons' conference championships finish, where the women placed fourth and the men took home fifth. The top returners on the women's side include all-conference performer Olivia Steadman , who placed 10th at the 2024 FC Championships with a time of 23:27.8. As a freshman in 2023, Steadman placed ninth at the league championships and qualified for the NAIA National Meet. Also back for the Bulldogs is Justene Santi , who finished 20th at last years conference meet with a personal-best 24:33.20. The men's team sees juniors Harrison Silverio and Brant Heiner return. Silverio paced UMW at last season's conference championships, running to a 20th place finish with 27:02.00. Heiner, who placed 10th and earned an NAIA Nationals spot in 2023 with a 26:28.50, did not compete in 2024. LOOKING AHEAD Montana Western opens the season at MSU Bobcat Twilight Aug. 29. The men's race starts at 7:20 p.m. MT with the women's following at 7:45 p.m. MT. 2025 Frontier Conference Women's Cross Country Preseason Coaches' Poll Rank School (First Place Votes) Total Points 1 Montana Tech (8) 97 2 Carroll (2) 89 3 Dakota State (1) 84 4 Rocky Mountain 75 5 Dickinson State 54 6 Bismarck State 53 7 Montana Western 45 8 Valley City State 43 9 Bellevue 28 10 MSU-Northern 20 11 Providence 17 2025 Frontier Conference Men's Cross Country Preseason Coaches' Poll Rank School (First Place Votes) Total Points 1 Carroll (8) 98 2 Rocky Mountain (3) 87 3 Bellevue 79 4 Montana Tech 70 5 Dakota State 64 6 Bismarck State 57 7 Dickinson State 54 8 Montana Western 32 9 MSU-Northern 30 10 Valley City State 20 11 Providence 14

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, August 20th, 2025 6:45 P.M. PUBLIC HEARING ON ACCEPTANCE OF THE 2025-2026 BUDGET 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 from August 6, 2025 Regular Meeting 2.         Approve the Transcript from August 6 th , 2025 Public Hearing on Butte Street 3.         Approve the Minutes from August 11, 2025 Special City Council Hearing   C.        PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS               1.         Update from the Beaverhead Chamber of Commerce 2.         Mr. Klakken and Mr. Warner’s Opinion Letter on the Dillon City Attorneys 3.         Accept Resignation of Police Chief Alvarez   D.        MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Second Reading of Ordinance #486 2.         Second Reading of Ordinance #487 3.         Approve Resolution #1491 Western Region Hazard Mitigation Plan (Plan can be reviewed at https://des.mt.gov/Mitigation/Mitigation-Planning ) 4.         Approve Resolution of Intent #1493 to Create Sid   E.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         City Attorney – Ed Guza                         a.         Copy of Beaverhead Meats Cease & Desist Letter 2.         Planning Board - Bill Shafer, Raymond Graham                         a.         Accept July 14 th , 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes 3.         Zoning Commission - Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley                         a.         Accept the Minutes from July 22 nd , 2025 Regular Meeting 4.         Board of Adjustments - Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz 5.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6.         Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez                         a.         Accept Incident Report from July 2025                7.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose                         a.         Accept the Activity Report for July 2025 8.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox                         a.         Accept the Court Report for July 2025 9.         Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Kim Denny, Library Director               F.        REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Ordinances & Facilities – Bill Shafer, Chair; Joleen Schultz, Mary Jo O’Rourke 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Mary Jo O’Rourke 3.         Public Services – Diane Armstrong, Chair; Bill Shafer, Don Deem 4.         Open Spaces – Raymond Graham, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Joleen Schultz 5.         Public Works – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Raymond Graham                         a.         Approve the Minutes from August 13, 2025 Regular Committee Meeting                                     i.          Approve the Purchase of New Truck for the Street & Alley Department     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.