WISER RIVER, MT  – Firefighters from the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest  are currently responding to a newly reported fire in the Sawlog Creek area, located on the south side of the Big Hole River, west of Wise River. Initial estimates indicate that the fire has expanded to approximately 40-50 acres , primarily affecting sagebrush and timberland. Additional firefighting crews are en route to the scene, and in response to the situation, two engines and a light helicopter have been ordered to assist with containment efforts. This is a developing situation, and authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available. Picture Credit Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF Wildland Fire Information

DILLON, MT  – Protesters gathered Thursday afternoon at Kiwanis Park  on Montana Street to exercise their First Amendment rights, waving signs to express their outrage regarding policies implemented by President Trump during his first 100 days in office. This event is being referred to as the May Day protest . Participants showcased a variety of messages of dissent, with some taking the opportunity to engage with cameras, highlighting their perspectives and concerns. The Dillon Police Department  was on-site to ensure the safety of the demonstrators and maintain order, effectively preventing individuals from stepping into oncoming traffic. Officers monitored the situation closely to ensure that the protest remained peaceful.

IDAHO FALLS, ID  – Frontier Credit Union, led by Montana-native Dan Thurman , announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire First Citizens Bank of Butte , a wholly-owned subsidiary of Butte Bank Shares, Inc. This acquisition marks Frontier’s first expansion into the Treasure State. Headquartered in Idaho Falls, the strategic move aims to bring Frontier's 90-year legacy  of member-focused financial services to a new market while honoring First Citizens Bank of Butte's tradition of community banking. With this acquisition, customers of First Citizens Bank of Butte will gain access to Frontier's full suite of financial products, enhanced technology, competitive rates, and quick online loan applications, all while maintaining a commitment to personalized service. "As we bring Frontier to Montana, we're not just expanding our footprint—we're extending our mission of helping people build better lives," stated Dan Thurman, CEO of Frontier Credit Union. "Having grown up in Dillon, it’s a dream to share Frontier with my home state. We can’t wait to be a part of the fabric here in Butte and serve this great community." "This transaction brings tremendous opportunities for our customers and employees," said Casey Reilly , CEO of First Citizens Bank of Butte. "It’s a natural fit. I’m excited our customers will be in the hands of someone who knows what makes Montana special and appreciates the uniqueness of Butte." The transaction is subject to approval by bank and credit union regulators as well as the shareholders of Butte Bank Shares, Inc. Until the acquisition is finalized, both organizations will continue to conduct business as usual. First Citizens Bank of Butte customers can expect communication from their banking team during the transition, and the local branch will remain open, ensuring the personalized banking experience that customers value. The CEO Advisory Group  and McQueen Financial Advisors  served as financial advisors to Frontier Credit Union, while Luse Gorman, PC  acted as its legal advisor in the proposed acquisition. Olsen Palmer LLC  served as financial advisor to First Citizens Bank of Butte and Butte Bank Shares, Inc., with Spierer Woodward Corbalis Goldberg  as its legal advisor. For more information about Frontier Credit Union and the acquisition, please visit frontiercreditunion.com/blog/expanding-to-butte-montana  or email contactus@frontiercreditunion.com . About Frontier Credit Union: Founded in 1935, Frontier Credit Union helps members build better lives through personalized financial services, competitive rates, and active community investment. Recognized as Idaho's fastest-growing credit union, Frontier combines modern banking technology with traditional member-focused service. About First Citizens Bank of Butte: First Citizens Bank of Butte, an FDIC insured Montana State-chartered commercial bank, was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Butte, Montana, where it operates one branch. Learn more at fcbob.com .

DILLON, MT  – The Dillon Beavers easily dispatched the Corvallis Varsity Blue Devils on Wednesday with a commanding victory of 16-1. The Beavers quickly got on the board in the bottom of the first inning, beginning with a solo home run from Tyler Gibson  to center field. Kinzy Creighton  followed with a single, bringing in one run, and Katey Vezina  added to the score with her own single, driving in two runs. Bridget Lovaas  then singled to score another run, and Kaitlyn Konen  capped the inning with a double that scored two additional runs. Continuing their offensive momentum, the Beavers scored six runs on six hits in the bottom of the second inning. Katey Vezina  scored after tagging up, followed by Kaitlyn Konen  singling to bring in one run. Maisy Hutchinson  then singled, scoring another run, while Reese Jensen  contributed with a single that brought in two runs. Tymber Barnes  drew a walk, adding one more run to the tally. Dillon added to their lead in the bottom of the third inning when Adyson Creighton  singled to score one run, and Tymber Barnes  doubled, bringing in two more runs. On the mound, Adyson Creighton  started the game for the Beavers, surrendering zero hits and zero runs over one inning, while striking out one batter and walking none. Tymber Barnes  appeared in relief, helping to maintain the strong defensive showing. The Beavers amassed a total of 17 hits in the game, with Ashlyn Burk , Adyson Creighton , Katey Vezina , Bailey Blake , and Kaitlyn Konen  each contributing two hits. Barnes went 1-for-1 at the plate and led the team with three runs batted in. The Beavers displayed patience at the plate, collecting five walks throughout the game. They were also solid defensively, committing no errors, with Kinzy Creighton  recording the most chances in the field with three. For the Corvallis Blue Devils, Lacey Jessop  and Brenna Bear  each collected one hit, with Bear going 1-for-1 at the plate and leading her team with one RBI. The Dillon Beavers will travel to face the 2025 Frenchtown High School Broncs  for their next game on Friday, looking to continue their successful run.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont.  – The Montana Western Athletic Department hosted its annual induction ceremony for the Beta Chapter of the Chi Alpha Sigma national collegiate athlete honor society on Monday, April 28, 2025. The Bulldogs had 30 student-athletes honored at the ceremony as the second induction class into the chapter.  In order to be inducted, student-athletes must participate in a sport at the varsity intercollegiate level, achieve junior academic standing or higher after their fifth full-time semester, and earn a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher. The ceremony was held in the Lewis and Clark room on campus as the inductees were joined by coaches and athletic staff with remarks from UMW Provost Johnny MacLean. Below is a full list of this year's induction class. Those marked with an (*) are repeat selections. 2025 Inductees John Mears , Football* Jacob Ankeny , Men's Basketball* Katherine Bills , Women's Rodeo* Chucky Braverock , Football* Keke Davis , Women's Basketball Taten Ells , Football* Jace Fitzgerald , Football Kaylee Fritz , Women's Volleyball* Madalyn Foster , Women's Rodeo Kelsey Goddard , Women's Volleyball* Hannah Griffin , Women's Rodeo* Payton Hagy , Women's Basketball* Matthew Heer , Football* Trevor Kay , Men's Rodeo* Tavy Leno , Women's Rodeo Alexis Loucks , Sideline Cheer* Isabella Lund , Women's Basketball* Everitt Mauler , Men's Rodeo* Breyana Miller , Women's Rodeo* Tori Murnion , Women's Rodeo James Ochs , Football* Jordan Olson , Women's Volleyball Malli O'Neal , Women's Rodeo* Bridger Polk , Football Brooke Richey , Women's Rodeo* Noah Rimmer , Football* Jazi Smith , Women's Volleyball* Quincy Taylor , Men's Basketball* Peyton Vogl , Women's Volleyball* Eli Wells , Football

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Thursday, May 1st, 2025 7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Planning Board Meeting AGENDA   A.   Call Meeting to Order B.   Review and Approval of Minutes i.          April 3rd, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes ii.        April 15th, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes C.    Review Goals/Objectives and Actions in 2016 Growth Policy D.   Current Growth Policy Update E.    Update on County Planning Board Activities F.    Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Planning Board. G.   Adjournment               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 .   Planning Board Members:       Don Hand, Bill Shafer, Raymond Graham, Dan Nye, Ed Mooney, Michael Saunders, Maria Emmer-Aanes

The University of Montana Western will celebrate its 128th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Bulldog Stadium on the UMW campus. “We look forward to celebrating this important milestone for our students, and we are proud of all of their accomplishments,” said Montana Western Chancellor Michael Reid. A total of 372 Montana Western graduates will be awarded over 404 degrees by the end of the 2024–25 academic year. Of those graduates, 27 have completed two or more degrees, and 64% are receiving honors by achieving a GPA of 3.33 or higher. Two hundred graduates have chosen to participate in this year’s ceremony. The ceremony’s Chief Marshal will be UMW Professor of Ecology, Dr. Wendy Ridenour. Commencement Speaker: Nathan J. Boll This year’s commencement program will feature 2013 Montana Western graduate Nathan J. Boll. Boll is a Space Policy Analyst in the Science Mission Directorate at the headquarters of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in Washington, D.C., where he specializes in intergovernmental affairs. He currently supports the Joint Agency Satellite Division as the lead interagency agreement manager and serves as the Executive Secretary of the NASA Advisory Council’s Science Committee. “We are honored to welcome Nathan J. Boll back to Montana Western for our 128th Annual Commencement ceremony. His work in space policy and intergovernmental affairs at NASA demonstrates the impact of a Montana Western education and the incredible paths our graduates can pursue,” said Montana Western Chancellor, Michael Reid. “We look forward to his address as he shares his experiences and helps inspire our graduates to reach for new heights in their own careers.” UMW Alumni Distinguished Service Award Recipient: Bryan Mussard Bryan Mussard, a proud Dillon native and 1991 Montana Western graduate, has long been a dedicated supporter of both his alma mater and community. He and his wife, Marcia, live in Dillon where they manage Big West Management and Reminisce Angus Ranch with their family. For nearly four decades, Mussard has built a reputation for excellence, integrity, and innovation in ranching and business. A successful entrepreneur, he founded Gorgeous Vodka, an award-winning, 93-point-rated brand that has earned five gold medals. He also founded Cattle Baron Cigars, a nationally distributed line rated between 91–93 points, and Reminisce Angus Beef, which supplies premium beef to high-end resorts along the Rocky Mountain Front, as well as grocery stores across Montana and the United States. Beyond his business achievements, Mussard has consistently supported Montana Western and the broader Dillon community. Events Leading Up to Commencement Social Honoring Bryan Mussard and the UMW Classes of 1975 & 2000 The Montana Western Alumni Office will host a social at the Dillon Elks Lodge on Friday, May 9, at 5:00 p.m. to honor Bryan Mussard and the Montana Western classes of 1975 and 2000. The cost to attend is $10. To RSVP, please call 406-683-7303 or visit  tinyurl.com/Alumni-Social . Legacy Plaza Ceremony An additional ceremony honoring the 2025 Graduating Class will be held on Friday, May 9, at 3:30 p.m. on the campus’s Legacy Plaza. This celebration is part of a special tradition at Montana Western held at the end of each academic year on the eve of the Commencement Ceremony that celebrates and honors the graduates for the completion of their degrees and the legacy that they will leave at UMW. Bulldog Breakfast  The annual Bulldog Breakfast will be held on Saturday, May 10, from 7:00–9:30 a.m. in UMW’s Dining Hall for all Commencement guests. Reservations are requested by Thursday, May 8, 2025, at  umwestern.edu/commencement-breakfast-reservation , but are not required to attend. Breakfast will include waffles, scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, sausage, biscuits and gravy, sweet rolls, muffins, coffee cake, fresh fruit, cereal, yogurt, granola, chilled juice, coffee, and assorted teas. The cost is $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 2–10. Payment will be accepted by Dining Services via Bulldog Bucks or credit/debit card.  Commencement Day Logistics Graduate Check-In Graduates and degree candidates must arrive at the South Entrance of Bulldog Stadium by 9:00 a.m. dressed in full regalia. The Processional will begin at 9:50 a.m. Seating Commencement will be held in Bulldog Stadium and is open to all, no tickets are required. Gates open at 9:00 a.m., and seating is available on the field, in the bleachers, and on the berms on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that seating and parking cannot be reserved. Guests should enter through the main ticket booth entrance. Beier Auditorium Livestream Viewing A live stream of the ceremony will also be available in Beier Auditorium. Doors open at 9:00 a.m., and seating is first come, first served. Guests will be asked to exit the auditorium once the ceremony ends. Online Livestream For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the Commencement Ceremony will be available starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, at  umwestern.edu/commencement-live-stream . For more information, please contact the Montana Western Registrar’s Office by calling 406-683-7371 or visit  https://tinyurl.com/UMWComm25 .

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information MILES CITY, Mont. —  The Montana Western rodeo teams came out strong over the weekend, with both men and women winning the first rodeo title. Following Friday night's victory, the Bulldog men finished in third and the women claimed second in rodeo of the weekend. Cole Trexler won the men's all-around buckle in the first rodeo with a win in both team roping and tie down roping. Top Performers Rodeo # 1 Trexler claimed both the tie down roping and team roping titles. He recorded a 23.0 in the average in tie down. He also finished on top of the team roping with partner Kyler Erickson with a combined 15.3. Tavy Leno won goat tying, finishing with a 13.2 in the average. Chase Martin was the lone Bulldog to record points for the Bulldogs in saddle bronc riding. He finished with an 81 in the average, good for second place. Trevor Kay finished second in bareback riding with a 143 in the average. Cooper Pavkov and Jake Deveraux finished second in team roping with a combined 18.8 in the event. Everitt Mauler and Jake Miller also placed in the event, finishing in third with a combined 23.0. Jade Ramon and Racin Allen each finished in the top standings of the tie down roping average. Ramon finished in third with a combined 27.3 and Allen finished in fourth with a 28.7. Laura Haight placed third in barrel racing with a combined 28.23 in the event. Teely Bott placed third in breakaway roping with a combined 6.2. Charlee Resch and Tynell Mclnenly each finished in the top of the breakaway standings for the Bulldog women. Resch finished in fourth with a 6.4 and Mclnenly finished in sixth with a 2.2 in her first run. After recording a 14.6 in goat tying, Jaycie Richey finished in fifth in the average. Top Performers Rodeo #2 Kay finished second in bareback riding with a 138 in the average. Deveraux finished in second in tie down roping with a 23.4. Three pairs of team ropers placed in the top of the event standings. Jhet Murphy and Trace Martin finished in second with a combined 18.0. Tatum Hansen and Clay Pendergrass took fourth in the standings with a 23.2. Bott and Desi Coombs finished fifth with a combined 23.9. Haight, Resch, and Mclnenly all placed in breakaway roping. Haight finished in third with a 6.3. Resch followed close behind in fourth with a 6.4 and Mclnenly finished in sixth with a 2.4 in her first run. Maddie Eskew finished third in the barrel racing average after she recorded a combined 27.96. Martin recorded a 65 in his first saddle bronc ride, putting him in fifth place in the event.   Up Next The Bulldogs will close out their spring season at the University of Montana Rodeo in Missoula, Mont. The event will serve as the region finals with teams vying for a trip to the College National Finals Rodeo. Click here to view the standings in the Big Sky Region.

BOZEMAN – Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff, in cooperation with Montana State University, have begun the second year of tagging trout in the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby and Madison rivers. This effort is part of ongoing research aimed at understanding trout declines and fish health concerns in rivers in the upper Missouri River Basin. When anglers report these tags, it helps researchers better understand how environmental conditions and other factors contribute to population recruitment, survival and mortality of trout.   “This is a great chance for anglers to take an active part in this research that will benefit the fishery,” said FWP Fisheries Manager Mike Duncan. “We need your help. Please report the tagged fish you catch.” Each tag has a unique number and will be attached to the fish near the dorsal fin. Anglers who catch a tagged fish should use clippers to remove the tag as close to the skin as possible while minimizing handling time and exposure to air for the fish, then submit a report for each tagged fish they catch from the four rivers mentioned above. These reports will include information such as the tag number, date, location, condition of the fish, gear type used, and whether the angler released or harvested the fish. A how-to video on this process is available on FWP’s website . Anglers who submit reports may be eligible for rewards. Anglers who report blue tags will be entered into regular drawings for gear and fishing trips. Yellow tag reports are each worth $100. Anglers may encounter fish that are still carrying tags from last year. These tags may be covered with a thin film of algae, making them less noticeable. However, the same reporting process and reward opportunities apply to these tags. Anglers can submit reports by visiting mtcfru.org/msutag or by calling 406-994-2384. Anglers and other river recreationists may also meet staff from MSU while on the river. These creel clerks will be interviewing recreationists as part of the research effort. This research kicked off in 2024 after annual sampling in 2023 found fish numbers to be at or near historical lows in sections of the Big Hole, Beaverhead and Ruby rivers. Since then, FWP has been working closely with MSU to study fish mortality, recruitment and health. To learn more about the cooperative research, click here .

DILLON, MT  – On Monday morning, first responders were dispatched to a single vehicle accident on Interstate 15 near mile marker 59. A truck towing a trailer lost control and swerved off the roadway, ultimately coming to rest on its side in the median. The trailer detached from the truck and also ended up on its side in the median. As of now, the Montana Highway Patrol is reporting unknown injuries related to the incident. Authorities are on the scene assessing the situation and working to ensure safety for motorists in the area.

DILLON, MT  – The District Music Festival took place from April 24-26 in Dillon, showcasing the talent of local musicians and providing an enriching experience for students and families alike. A significant amount of planning and effort went into hosting this great event, and special thanks are due to Mrs. Van Slyke  and Mrs. Raffety  for their dedication and hard work in organizing the festival. Their commitment was evident, as many positive comments were received from students and families representing Dillon and the attending schools. Appreciation is also extended to all the students and staff who assisted in ensuring the smooth execution of the event. Their efforts allowed performers and adjudicators to focus solely on the performances, contributing to a successful festival. Beaverhead County High School  (BCHS) was well-represented, with numerous talented musicians showcasing their skills. Band department is proud to announce (one = superior, two = excellent, ones go on to state except symphonic band). Symphonic Band: One, one, one (on both adjudicator performance forms and sight reading) Jazz Band: Two Jazz Combo: One Brass Choir: One Woodwind Ensemble: One Percussion Ensemble: One Clarinet Trio: Two Saxophone Quartet: One Saxophone Ensemble: One Superior Solos and Duets: Kaycee Pilon, Flute Sev Meier, Flute Rowdy Mattison, Clarinet Guy Holt, Bass Clarinet Alexy Navarrete, Alto Sax Izzy Regan, Tenor Sax Daria Adkins, Trumpet Kelly Webster, Trumpet Brady Aldrich, Trombone Aidan Ferguson, Trombone Hunter Wigen, Trombone Zach Maki, Trombone Tanner Reis, Tuba Evie Tolman, Marimba Emma Lovaas, Marimba MJ Hendrickson, Drum set Hunter Wigen, Piano Rowdy Mattison, Piano Stoker/Wigen Piano Duet Meier/Pilon Flute Duet Excellent Solos and Duets: Amelia Maki, Flute Leah Kenealey, Flute Toni Stoker, Alto Sax Sam George, Alto Sax Mattison/Mickelson Duet District IV Music Festival Choir Results: SUPERIOR CHOIRS & ENSEMBLES Treble Chorus Men's Chorus Women's Ensemble Men's Ensemble Teen Tones Mixed Ensemble Sweet Adelines, Barbershop Choir Sweet Tones, Barbershop Quartet SUPERIOR DUETS Burton/Smith Lovaas/Pilon Lovaas/Valach Malesich/Martinez EXCELLENT DUETS Ferguson/Warren Jorgensen/Kenealey SUPERIOR SOLOS Briana Burton Tania Currie Sheridan Ferguson Leah Kenealey Hannah Kidd Tessa Johnson Emma Lovaas Zoey Mickelson Kaycee Pilon Dean Smith Christopher Valach Amelia Warren EXCELLENT SOLOS Kaelyn Cowan Alexcis Jorgensen Lily Malesich Sawyer Platt

The Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education has announced the selection of eight faculty members from across the state to be honored as Montana University System Teaching Scholars, including University of Montana Western Associate Professor of Education, Dr. Katrina Kennett. Now in its fifth year, the MUS Teaching Scholars program was created to elevate excellent teaching and learning as the signature feature of an MUS education and to expand the reach of and impact of high-quality teaching. The program recognizes faculty who have made exemplary contributions to teaching and learning at their institutions and supports these faculty in leading faculty peers in further advancing excellence in teaching.  Each year, the MUS Teaching Scholars program focuses on a theme that highlights innovative approaches to teaching and aligns with MUS teaching and learning priorities.  This year, the MUS Teaching Scholars program theme is “Teaching Practices & Pedagogies for All Learners.” This year’s Teaching Scholars faculty have developed leading edge strategies to serve non-traditional and working students as well as learners who face additional barriers in accessing education. “We are proud to announce this year’s cohort of MUS Teaching Scholars, whose exceptional contributions to teaching elevate what an MUS education can be,” says Joseph Thiel, Deputy Commissioner for Academic, Research, and Student Affairs in the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education. “These faculty are trailblazers developing new ways of preparing our students for future careers, particularly when those students come to education later in life or with hurdles to overcome.”  The MUS Teaching Scholars program extends its impact through faculty learning communities. During the fall semester, each Teaching Scholar will lead faculty on their home campus in developing innovative and effective teaching strategies. Findings, best practices, and strategies developed through the learning communities will be shared with faculty across the system as part of the MUS Seamless System Initiative.  Scholars were chosen from a highly competitive pool of faculty from across the system, from all types of institutions within the system, and all faculty tracks and ranks. Faculty are selected in a double-blind review process for demonstrated commitment to the annual theme, quality and potential impact of the proposal for a faculty learning community, and demonstrated commitment to effective and innovative pedagogy. 2025-2026 Montana University System MUS Teaching Scholars Katrina Kennett , Associate Professor, Education, University of Montana Western Ania Bartkowiak , Assistant Professor, Counseling, Montana State University Shihua Brazill , Assistant Professor, Interdisciplinary Arts & Sciences, Montana Technological University Selena Coburn , Instructor, Social Sciences, Great Falls College Jennifer Combe , Professor, Art Education, University of Montana Katherine Ivester,  Faculty & Department Head, Developmental Math, Gallatin College Jenna Jones , Instructor, Nursing Health & Public Safety, City College Kasthuri Udayakumar,  Associate Professor, College of Health Sciences, MSU Northern Additional information about the program, this year’s theme, and past cohorts can be found at  https://mus.edu/che/arsa/mus-teaching-scholars/ .

Adyson Creighton  led the Dillon Beavers to victory over the Polson Varsity Lady Pirates with an outstanding performance on Saturday, striking out 14 batters and allowing just six hits and four runs over seven innings without issuing a walk. The Beavers secured an 8-4 win, showcasing their offensive and defensive strengths. The Lady Pirates struck first, scoring two runs in the top of the first inning when Opal Nash  singled. However, the Beavers quickly responded in the bottom of the first, tying the game at two runs apiece. Kylie Konen  contributed with a key single on a full count, driving in runs to even the score. Dillon took the lead in the bottom of the fourth inning, capitalizing on an error that allowed a run to score, giving the Beavers a 3-2 advantage. They extended their lead in the fifth inning when Konen hit a home run to center field, contributing two more runs to the scoreboard. Polson attempted a comeback in the top of the seventh with a home run to right field by Olivia Jore , scoring two runs, but the Beavers maintained their lead. Samantha Rensvold  took the loss for the Lady Pirates, pitching five and two-thirds innings, where she allowed eight runs (two earned), struck out 11, and walked two. For Polson, Emma Smith , Sierra Perez , Ahri Rushing , Opal Nash , Samantha Rensvold , and Olivia Jore  each recorded one hit, with Nash and Jore driving in two runs apiece. The Dillon Beavers will play at home on Wednesday against the Corvallis Varsity Blue Devils  in their next matchup, looking to build on their successful win over Polson.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information Photo Credit Gary Marshall MISSOULA, Mont. –  The Montana Western track & field team continued to show improvement this weekend with another impressive six personal bests set at the Montana Open. "We had some strong performances this meet which is exciting as we had into conference next week. Justene was able to place 6th out of our conference schools in steeplechase. Additionally, Brody was able to drop five seconds off his 1500m personal record which was exciting to see," Head Coach Taylor Grove said. "Gracie and Wade were both able to improve their times in the 100m and 110m hurdles. Ruby was able to run a 5k personal record and Olivia was right near hers as well. Justin keeps improving week to week, being able to grab a personal record in the discus again. I think we are in a good spot going to the conference meet next week." Highlights  Six Bulldogs earned personal bests with Justene Santi placing sixth in the Frontier Conference 3000m steeple event after she earned a personal best time in the event. Brody Henry , Wade Dahood , and Justin Maier each earned personal bests for the men's team in their events. Ruby Smith and Gracie Yakos each earned personal bests on the day, with Smith earning hers in the 500m race and Yakos in the 100m hurdles. Men's Results  Brody Henry  – 800m (20th, 2:03.30), 1500m (6th, 4:13.37) Drake Delude – 400m (13th, 53.25) Bridger Wheeler  – 800m (23rd, 2:14.35), 1500m (14th, 4:43.03) Wade Dahood  – 110m Hurdles (4th, 15.87), Long Jump (11th, 5.82m) Erick Piazzola  – 400m (15th, 56.63) Justin Maier  – Discus (11th, 38.96m), Shot Put (19th, 10.72m) Carson Bain  – Discus (12th, 37.21m), Shot Put (20th, 9.44m) Landon Darsow  – Discus (16th, 34.27m), Shot Put (18th, 10.89m) Gunner Thomas  – Javelin (11th, 29.93m) Tad Tackes  – Shot Put (16th, 12.56m) Women's Results  Olivia Steadman  – 5000m (5th, 19:11.88) Ruby Smith  – 5000m (9th, 20:54.77) Justene Santi  –3000m Steeple (8th, 12:43.73) Kylee Wyatt  – 1500m (13th, 7:00.50) Gracie Yakos  – 100m Hurdles (11th, 16.81) Olivia Canney  – 400m (6th, 1:11.05) Braden Kopp  – Discus (12th, 29.31m) Ellie Stutsman  – Discus (13th, 26.11m), Shot Put (19th, 9.85m) Sarah Clark  – Discus (14th, 25.09m), Javelin (14th, 30.77m) Up Next  The Bulldogs will now head to the Frontier Conference Championships this upcoming weekend. The meet will be hosted by Carroll College at Vigilante Stadium in Helena, Mont. Meet schedule will be released in the coming days.

Join Montana Western and the Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest for an Open House at the Birch Creek Center on Sunday, May 4 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. Explore the historic CCC camp and learn about updates and plans for the center. Guided nature walk and information about the area provided by UMW students. For more information, contact Dr. Estee Aiken: estee.aiken@umwestern.edu  or 406-683-7035. To get to the Birch Creek Center from Dillon, take I-15 N for about 10 miles. Take exit 74 (Apex/Birch Creek). Proceed down Birch Creek Road for about 9 miles and then turn left onto Thief Creek Road (there will be a sign). Proceed for about .3 miles until you reach the Birch Creek Center buildings and parking area.

Bats were blistering as the Dillon Beavers defeated the Ronan Varsity Maidens 12-11 on Saturday in a dramatic match. Despite being out-hit 12 to 8, the Beavers showcased tenacity and determination by coming back from a 11-7 deficit in the fourth inning. The Ronan Varsity Maidens began strong, scoring three runs in the first inning when Nevaeh Perez  homered to left field. The Maidens added another run in the second inning after Kailyn Marengo  grounded into a fielder's choice. In the second inning, the Dillon Beavers flipped the script, scoring six runs on just one hit to take a 7-4 lead. The inning's highlight was a defensive error by Ronan that allowed three runs to score. However, Ronan responded in the top of the third, reclaiming the lead by scoring five runs on two hits. Marengo delivered a crucial single following a 6-pitch at-bat, driving in two runs and putting the Maidens ahead 9-7. In a back-and-forth battle, the Beavers regained the lead in the bottom of the sixth when Kailyn Marengo  induced Bailey Blake  to hit into a fielder's choice, scoring two runs, followed by a double from Bridget Lovaas  that brought in another. Adyson Creighton  earned the victory for the Beavers, allowing only three hits and no runs over three innings while striking out five and walking one. Kailyn Marengo  took the loss for Ronan, pitching six innings and giving up 12 runs (none earned) on eight hits, striking out four and walking two. Tymber Barnes  started for Dillon, allowing nine hits and 11 runs (four earned) in four innings, striking out two and walking four. Several players contributed to the Beavers' offensive efforts, with Kinzy Creighton , Bridget Lovaas , and Kylie Konen  each collecting two hits. Katey Vezina , Lovaas, Blake, and Konen drove in one run each for Dillon. The Beavers also executed one double play during the game. The Ronan Varsity Maidens had a strong batting performance, with Perez leading the way with three RBIs, finishing 2-for-2. Adrienne Crockett  added three hits in four at-bats from the leadoff position, while Marengo, Autumn Lozeau , and Kai-Cee Sorrell  contributed multiple hits. Perez also led Ronan with two walks, as the Maidens showcased a disciplined approach at the plate with a total of five walks.

DILLON, MT  – In a surprising turn of events, the Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers - MHSA collected five hits against the Laurel Locomotives Varsity 2025 but still fell short, losing the game 3-1 on Saturday. Trenton Moreni , Kanin Engelhardt , Jase Alvarez , Sawyer Tackett , and Cohen Hartman  each contributed a hit for the Beavers, demonstrating a strong offensive effort. Both teams showcased solid pitching, with the Laurel Locomotives’ pitchers striking out seven batters while the Beavers recorded six strikeouts in response. Laurel was the first to score, taking the lead in the top of the third inning when Eric Haus  hit a sacrifice fly and Dallas Jackson  lined out, each contributing one run to the scoreboard. Will Hansen  started on the mound for the Beaverhead County Beavers, surrendering no hits and two runs (none earned) over three and two-thirds innings, striking out four batters and walking two. Mason Wilson  earned the win for the Locomotives, allowing five hits and just one run over seven innings, striking out seven and walking one. Cohen Hartman led the Beavers with one run batted in, finishing the game 1-for-3. The Beavers also executed one double play during the matchup, showcasing their defensive skills. For Laurel, Eric Haus  stood out with one RBI, and the team displayed strong defense by not committing a single error, with Dallas Jackson handling the most chances in the field with nine. The Beaverhead County Beavers will look to bounce back as they prepare to face the Butte Central Catholic Varsity Maroons  this Thursday.

DILLON, MT  – Andrew Bartlome delivered a standout performance with four hits in four at-bats as the Beaverhead County Beavers defeated the Frenchtown Varsity Broncs  11-1 on Saturday. The Beavers opened the scoring in the bottom of the first inning, capitalizing on three consecutive singles. Trenton Moreni  started the rally, recording a single that brought in two runs. Beaverhead County continued to build their lead by adding another run in the second inning after Marcus Lagunas  singled. Logan Fox  earned the win for the Beavers, surrendering only two hits and one run over five innings, with an impressive seven strikeouts and two walks. In contrast, Hendrix Waln  took the loss for the Broncs, pitching just one-third of an inning and allowing three runs on three hits. The Beavers showcased their offensive capabilities, amassing a total of 11 hits in the game. Trenton Moreni  was particularly effective, leading the team with two RBIs and going 2-for-3 at the plate. Marcus Lagunas  displayed speed on the bases, stealing two bases, contributing to the team’s overall tally of five stolen bases for the game. For the Frenchtown Broncs, Joseph Alexander  and Dawson Rodoni  each recorded one hit while batting back-to-back. Alexander led his team with one RBI, going 1-for-1 during the game. The Beaverhead County Beavers will next face the Laurel Locomotives  on Saturday, looking to build on their successful outing against Frenchtown.