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- Finance Committee Meeting
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING January 30, 2025 9:00 A.M. ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Approval of January 2025 Claims 2. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction of The City 3. Adjournment Committee Members: Russ Schwandt, Chairperson Diane Armstrong Mary Jo O’Rourke
- Big Rebounds And Late Surge Propel Bulldogs To 69-66 Win
University of Montana Western Press Release DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western men's basketball team (10-9) snapped a four-game losing streak with a hard-fought 69-66 victory over the Montana State University-Northern Lights (6-14) this afternoon. "I'm proud of our guys for their response and finding a way to get a win," Head Coach Pat Jensen said. "We did a great job rebounding and got some really important stops down the stretch." Kyle Gruhler led the Bulldogs with 13 points and eight rebounds, playing a key role in securing the victory. How it Happened The Bulldogs started strong, shooting effectively from beyond the arc. Gruhler and Jalyn Stepney each hit two three-pointers early, giving Western an early advantage. Alan Kane contributed four points and two assists in the first half, helping the Bulldogs maintain a slim three-point lead midway through. The Lights responded with a 6-0 run to take the lead, but timely rebounds and defensive plays by Kolter Merritt kept the game close. A corner three-pointer by Kevin Bethel , followed by an and-one play from Jacob Ankeny , propelled the Bulldogs to a 43-37 lead heading into halftime. The Bulldogs came out firing in the second half. Kevin Bethel and Abi Adedo scored key baskets, and a three-pointer by Jackson Burckley extended the lead to 51-41. The Lights mounted a comeback, tying the game at 54-54 with just over eight minutes remaining. Western responded by ramping up their defensive intensity and dominating the boards. A decisive 11-2 run over the next four minutes secured a lead the Bulldogs would not relinquish, sealing the victory. Notables Gruhler led the game with eight rebounds and scored 13 points. Kane finished with 10 points and a game-high six assists. Ankeny added 12 points and six rebounds. The Bulldogs grabbed 21 offensive rebounds, scoring 20 second-chance points. Up Next The Bulldogs will travel to Great Falls to face University of Providence this Thursday, January 30, with tip-off set for 7 p.m.
- Bulldog Women Lose In Overtime To The Skylights
University of Montana Western Press Release DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western women's basketball team (7-12) dropped a close game in overtime to Montana State University Northern (11-9) this afternoon, losing 81-78. Payton Hagy scored a career high 25 points on a career high 10-22 from the field in the loss. How It Happened Hagy and Kenzi Pedersen got the Bulldogs off to a strong start, each scoring five points to fuel an 18-15 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Bulldogs shot 52% from the field in the second half and forced five Skylight turnovers, converting them into five points. However, the Skylights came out of halftime shooting 62% from the field and outscored the Bulldogs by 14 points in the third quarter, taking a 60-54 lead. Western responded with key scoring from Keke Davis and Hagy, sparking a 15-7 run that gave the Bulldogs a 69-67 lead with under a minute to play. Six made free throws by the Skylights down the stretch put them ahead 73-69. With 11 seconds remaining, Isabella Lund sank two free throws to cut the deficit to two. After two missed free throws by MSUN, Lund drove to the basket for a layup, sending the game into overtime. In overtime, the Bulldogs jumped out to an early lead, but the Skylights regained control with a 79-78 lead with two minutes remaining. UMW was held scoreless for the rest of the game, allowing the Skylights to secure the victory. Notables Lund would finish with 15 points, four steals, and six rebounds. Maddy Moy scored nine points, four steals and pulled down five rebounds. Pedersen scored 10 points and dished out six assists The Skylights would finish the game shooting 50% from the field. Up Next The Bulldogs will travel to Great Falls to face #23 University of Providence this Thursday, January 30, with tip-off set for 5 p.m.
- First Responders Called Out To Single Vehicle Rollover On I-15
Dillon, MT – As a snowstorm settled into the area on Friday morning, first responders were dispatched to a single-vehicle accident on Interstate 15, near mile marker 60, close to the Jackson exit. A red four-door Chevrolet pickup lost control, veering off the highway and rolling over. The vehicle ultimately came to a stop approximately 30 yards off the highway, resting on its roof. Fortunately, the two passengers managed to exit the vehicle and were seen speaking with first responders. The Montana Highway Patrol is currently reporting that injuries are unknown at this time. Authorities remind drivers to exercise caution during inclement weather conditions as the investigation into the accident continues. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
- Fire and Sheriff’s Office Respond to Burning Incident on Cattle Drive Lane
DILLON, MT – The Dillon Volunteer Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Office responded to reports of a large fire on Cattle Drive Lane on Friday evening after residents noticed the flames. Initial concerns raised whether it was a house on fire or a burn pile that had gotten out of control. Upon arriving at the scene, firefighters discovered a significant burn pile. While the residents had obtained a burn permit for the fire, it was found that the permit had expired. Firefighters remained on-site to extinguish the burn pile and monitor the situation to ensure that the fire did not spread. The quick response from the fire department helped prevent any potential hazards to nearby properties in the area. As a reminder, officials advise residents to ensure that all necessary permits are up to date when conducting burning activities to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
- Tragic Accident At Maverick Mountain: Skier Dies After Collision with Tree
Polaris, MT - January 18, 2025 A tragic incident occurred at Maverick Mountain Ski Area when a skier, identified as 23-year-old Henry Schmidt from Decatur, Indiana, lost his life after colliding with a tree. The incident unfolded shortly after noon when the Maverick Mountain Ski Patrol received an urgent report of a skier who had veered off a groomed trail and struck a tree. Ski patrol responded promptly, finding Schmidt unresponsive and without a heartbeat. CPR was immediately administered on the scene. Despite their rapid action, which included transporting him down the mountain in a rescue toboggan, Schmidt succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased at Barrett's Hospital. The teams from Maverick Mountain Ski Patrol and Grasshopper Fire and Ambulance were commended for their swift and professional response. They worked tirelessly to provide immediate care and ensure fast transport. However, despite their best efforts, the severe nature of Schmidt's injuries resulted in a tragic outcome. As investigations into the accident continue, thoughts and prayers are extended to Henry Schmidt's family and friends during this difficult time. Appreciation also goes to the first responders who acted with valor and urgency in this challenging situation.
- Snowstorm Causes Single Vehicle Accident In Beaverhead County
Beaverhead County, MT - January 24, 2025 A sudden snowstorm hit Beaverhead County on Friday afternoon, leading to treacherous driving conditions and a reported accident on MT-41. The storm, which quickly dropped several inches of snow, struck around 12:45 PM, creating hazards for motorists across the region. Near mile marker 12, a single vehicle lost control while navigating the slick roadway and slid down an embankment, crashing into a fence. The Montana Highway Patrol, Beaverhead County Sheriff Deputy, and D.V.F.D. responded to the incident and reported that the driver sustained injuries; however, the extent of those injuries remains unknown at this time. Authorities are reminding drivers to exercise caution during winter weather conditions and to be mindful of rapidly changing road situations. Further updates regarding the condition of the injured driver will be released if more information becomes available.
- Closures In Place For 2 Southwestern Montana Fishing Access Sites Due To Flooding
BOZEMAN – Two fishing access sites are facing partial or full closures due to ice jams, flooding and unsafe access conditions for visitors. Valley Garden Fishing Access Site on the Madison River near Ennis is fully closed due to a large ice jam on the river, causing water and ice to inundate the entrance road, boat ramp and campground. Drouillard Fishing Access Site on the Jefferson River near Three Forks is partially closed due to similar conditions. The boat ramp and vehicle turnaround area are closed, but the rest of the site remains open. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will lift the closures when conditions allow. Additional site closures may be in effect already or required later for other sites around the state, depending on weather and river flows. Current restrictions and closures of FWP-managed lands and waterbodies can be found here . Recreationists are encouraged to use caution when visiting rivers because of unseen hazards, as well as flow and ice conditions that can change suddenly. For more information about river recreation safety, click here .
- Zoning Commission Meeting
125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Tuesday, January 28th, 2025 at 7:00 P.M. ZONING COMMISSION Regular Meeting Agenda 1. Call To Order 2. Review and Approval of the January 14th, 2025 Meeting Minutes 3. Director of Operations Report 4. Applications for Zoning Compliance Certificates for Review: 2025-002 Miller 607 Barnett Garage w/ Office 2025-003 Reiser 421 Glendale Multi-Family Residence 5. Discuss/Recommend List of Title 17 Issues for Ad Hoc Committee 6. Discuss/Recommend Zoning Application Certificate Approvals 7. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Zoning Commission. 8. 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 . z oning Commission Members: Justin Rooley (Chair), Mike Watson, Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley
- Dillon Meth, Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced To More Than 11 Years In Prison
U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Montana MISSOULA — A Dillon man who admitted to trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl he obtained in Washington for distribution in southwest Montana was sentenced today to 11 years and three months in federal prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Over 1000 pills seized during the investigation The defendant, Jason Louie Tong, 50, pleaded guilty in September 2024 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The government alleged in court documents that in March 2023, the Montana Division of Criminal Investigation learned that Tong was distributing drugs in southwest Montana. Law enforcement recovered drugs from Tong’s vehicle twice in 2023, and during a third stop in 2023, officers arrested him and recovered drugs from his vehicle. Tong took at least four trips to Washington in 2023 to procure meth and fentanyl, with each trip yielding between five and 10 pounds of meth and 10,000 to 50,000 fentanyl pills. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Montana Highway Patrol, Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office, Butte Silver Bow Law Enforcement and Idaho State Police conducted the investigation. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN .
- Commerce Allocates Over $3.2 Million In Federal Funding For Affordable Housing; Dillon To Receive $416,100
HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that more than $3.2 million of federal funding has been allocated to build new or preserve affordable homes in four Montana communities. The funding is through Commerce’s Housing Trust Fund and HOME Investment Partnerships Program. “The health and well-being of our families, communities, businesses and economy rely on access to affordable, attainable housing,” said Paul Green, director of the Montana Department of Commerce. "Financing through the HOME Investment Partnership Program and the Housing Trust Fund will support the construction and rehabilitation of nearly 250 affordable homes for the Billings, Bozeman, Dillon and Laurel communities." The HOME Program and HTF are federal block grants directed and allocated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to create affordable homes for households with lower incomes. The following will receive HOME Investment Partnerships Program funding: HomeFront will receive $982,000 for the rehabilitation of Laurel Gardens in Laurel. Skyview Residences LLLP will receive $350,000 for new construction of the Skyview Residences in Billings. The following will receive Housing Trust Fund program funding: The Housing Company will receive $416,100 for new construction of the Homestead Apartments in Dillon. United Housing Partners LLC will receive $1,517,100 for new construction of the Hidden Creek Apartments in Bozeman. In 2022, Florence Crittenton Family Services received $1,278,032 of HOME Investment Partnership Program funding to assist in the renovation of its new campus in Helena. “Florence Crittenton was thrilled to receive a HOME grant to assist in the renovation of our new campus on Cooney Drive in Helena. The funds were used to create a warm, inviting, safe and stable home environment for eight families in our Recovery Home Program. The new space provides the opportunity for these mothers to receive appropriate substance use treatment and parenting support, while allowing their children to live with them in a stable home environment. For many of our families, this will be their children’s first home,” said Carrie Krepps, Executive Director of Florence Crittenton Family Services. “Florence Crittenton has a long partnership with the HOME Program, receiving a HOME grant almost 30 years ago to help build our previous facility. We are honored to continue this partnership with Commerce and HUD to provide safe living environments for the families of Montana." For more information about Commerce’s housing programs, visit commerce.mt.gov .
- January 29th Students Will Compete In The Beaverhead County Spelling Bee
The Beaverhead County Courthouse will play host for the 2025 Beaverhead County Spelling Bee. Elementary and middle school spellers from around the county on will convene on Wednesday, January 29 at 1:30p in the courtroom upstairs in the Courthouse. Students from all the grade schools, plus those from Dillon Middle School, Lima and local home schools will contend for a trip to the Treasure State Spelling Bee on March 7th in Bozeman. County Superintendent of Schools Mike Miller is serving as the director for this year’s contest. “The six rural schools, Lima’s Elementary School, the area home ‘schoolers’, and the schools here in Dillon have all been invited to send spellers to challenge for a trip to Bozeman in March,” said Miller. “We may have as many as 30 area spellers entered in the contest this year, although some schools may choose not to take part.” Trophies for the top two spellers and certificates for all participants will be presented at the conclusion of the event along with donations from local financial institutions to help defray the costs for travel to Bozeman. Three local judges (Jamie Flynn, Deborah McCabe, and Dr. Katrina Kennett) have volunteered, and Deb Sporich, the famous ‘Deb from the Bookstore’ will be pronouncing the words. The Treasure State Spelling Bee, now in its 60th year, is conducted along the rules of the Scripps National Spelling Bee organization which furnishes the spelling list used at local and state spelling bees. “At least one speller from each county can be entered in the state bee, while counties with much larger population are allowed more spellers. But it is expected that 60 spellers will converge on the campus of Montana State University at the Strand Ballroom for this year’s contest,” reported Miller. Only students from schools which are enrolled in the National Scripps organization are eligible to participate in the state bee, although registration is not required for the county bee. The Montana Television Network sponsors the event and local journalists will serve as judges at the Treasure State Bee in Bozeman.
- Montana Department of Transportation Hosts Meetings On MT-41 North Project
DILLON, MT – The Montana Department of Transportation (MDOT) held both in-person and virtual meetings on Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday to discuss the upcoming construction plans for the MT-41 Stone Creek North project. The meetings took place at the University of Montana Western (UMW) and provided an opportunity for the public to learn about the project and ask questions. The MT-41 project will begin where MT-41 crosses over Stone Creek and continue past Beaverhead Rock, ending just before Point of Rock Cemetery. The projected start date for the construction is set for 2027. MDOT plans to implement several improvements, including: Realigning the roadway north of the Beaverhead River. Reducing the vertical grade (steepness) of hills. Adding 8-foot shoulders to the roadway. Installing shoulder rumble strips and replacing centerline rumble strips. Flattening steep slopes along the road. Replacing the Stone Creek Bridge with a concrete box culvert. Replacing the Beaverhead River Bridge with a new structure. Upgrading guardrails and drainage systems. Constructing wildlife barrier fencing near the Beaverhead River bridge. This project aims to enhance safety on a section of roadway originally paved in 1959 and last improved in 1988, with a chip seal applied in 2011. The roadway is considered narrow by today’s standards and experiences significant semi and heavy traffic. Currently, the project is in its final design phase, and MDOT is beginning the right-of-way acquisition phase, which involves approximately 45 acres and impacts around 17 individuals. The department hopes to finalize engineering designs by 2025 and commence construction in 2027. During the meetings, attendees had the opportunity to hear from engineers regarding plans to widen the road, traffic control during construction, and what to expect as the project progresses. Biologists also discussed plans to install a taller bridge to aid wildlife, mitigate work near sensitive wildlife areas, and manage construction around both the Beaverhead River and Stone Creek. For those interested in staying informed about the project, MDOT encourages individuals to reach out to Brandon Coates at brandon@rbci.net . If you would like to register for the final virtual meeting for today 01/22 you can here .
- UMW and MCH Host 2025 Colt Challenge & Sale
The Annual Colt Challenge and Sale, hosted by the University of Montana Western and the Montana Center for Horsemanship, will take place March 28 and 29, 2025, at the Montana Center for Horsemanship in Dillon, Montana. Students and colts compete in a series of events that demonstrate their wide range of abilities on the first day, and the following day, a public auction features the colts for sale, with all proceeds reinvested in the program to provide scholarships to Natural Horsemanship majors at the University of Montana Western. This year we will also host our inaugural Alumni Horse Sale where past colt sale students will have the opportunity to showcase their horsemanship skills and their post-graduation accomplishments. There will be six alumni horses ranging from 3-11 years old. We are thrilled to showcase older horses and give buyers an opportunity to purchase horses with extra real-world experience. Schedule of Events:Friday, March 28 Colt Challenge: 9:00 a.m. Saturday, March 30 Preview: 10:00 a.m. Lunch: 11:30 a.m. Sale: 1:00 p.m. Each colt receives approximately 90 days of Natural Horsemanship training from equine students in the Natural Horsemanship/Equine Studies Bachelor of Science Degree program at Montana Western, under the guidance and leadership of the MCH Natural Horsemanship instructors . This year’s event will showcase 18 quality colts donated by some of the finest ranches in the region. The young horses are familiarized with all settings inside and out. They are also exposed to a variety of situations including working with cattle and ropes, loading and unloading from trailers, and many other scenarios a horse and rider might encounter in ranch-work or recreational riding. Simultaneously, both students and instructors develop an in-depth feel for each horse, enabling them to accurately convey this knowledge to potential buyers. The horses and students are featured on Facebook leading up to the main event with information about the colts including their color, conformation, personalities, and skills. More information about the 2025 Colt Challenge and Sale, including the sale catalog , is available on the University of Montana Western website . Those interested in attending the auction can do so in person, online, or by phone . To bid online, participants must pre-register at least one day prior to the sale. To pre-register, please visit bid.northernlivestockvideo.com and click “Get Approved to Bid.” Participants can then bid online via desktop by visiting www.northernlivestockvideo.com the day of the sale or by downloading the Northern Livestock Auction mobile app. To bid by phone, pre-register by calling Northern Livestock Video Auction at 866-616-5035 before the sale day to obtain a bid number. Bidders can then phone in the day of the sale by calling 406-245-0889. The sale order will be posted on Friday, March 28 by 5:00 p.m. on the Montana Western Colt Challenge and Sale website and Facebook page. The Annual Colt Challenge and Sale corporate sponsors include CHS Inc., New Generation Supplements, Rocky Mountain Supply, and Zinpro Performance Minerals in partnership with the University of Montana Western and the Montana Center for Horsemanship. Saturday’s complimentary lunch is sponsored by Beaverhead Motors and Bryan and Marcia Mussard of Reminisce Angus. Thank you to Stockman Bank for sponsoring this year’s saddle for the Colt Challenge winner. We wish to thank our sponsors for their generous support of the event and the students in the program. The Equine Studies Department at the University of Montana Western offers the nation’s only Bachelor of Science degree in Natural Horsemanship with options in management, psychology, science and instruction, and was ranked among the “Best Equestrian Colleges” by ThoughtCo.com . The Montana Center for Horsemanship is the first and only equine center in the United States that is devoted expressly to promoting natural horsemanship. With its stables, arenas, riding areas, and instructors, the center serves as the primary facility and progressive teaching resource for Montana Western’s Natural Horsemanship BS curriculum. The MCH teaches the ‘La Cense Method,’ which was developed under William Kriegel, owner of Haras de la Cense in France. Mr. Kriegel is also co-founder of MCH, and he has been involved in Natural Horsemanship for many years. The La Cense Method is a progressive, step-by-step process that blends the best of traditional horsemanship training with the art of training and riding horses—all in a manner that works with a horse’s behavior, instincts, and personality. Taking a positive and respectful approach, the La Cense Method gradually builds trust, and frees the horses to be confident in all they are asked to perform. For more information about the Colt Challenge and Sale, please contact Head Natural Horsemanship Instructor, Eric Hoffmann: eric.hoffmann@umwestern.edu or 406-925-1499.
- BCHS Special Board Of Trustees Meeting
BEAVERHEAD COUNTY HIGH SCHOOL SPECIAL BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING Interviews with Superintendent/Principal Finalists Schedule Room 106 January 28, 2025 AGENDA 1. CALL TO ORDER 1.1 Call to order 1.2 Determine a Quorum as being present. 1.3 Pledge of Allegiance - _________________________ 2. INTRODUCTION OF VISITORS 2.1 Casey Elliott, Dillon Tribune 2.2 BFT Representative 2.3 Student Council 3. PUBLIC COMMENT/COMMUNICATION 3.1 4. Interviews with Superintendent/Principal Finalists Schedule 1pm - Ator (in person) 2pm - Lagge (in person) 3pm - Patterson (in person) 4pm - Rutledge (zoom) Facilities Manager Jack Bergeson will lead a facility tour for each in-person finalist immediately following the conclusion of their interview. 5. ACTION ITEMS (Motion, Second, & Vote 5.1 Discussion and potential action on superintendent/principal finalist interviews - executive (closed) session possible in accordance with Section 2-3-203(3), MCA for the limited purpose of employment reference checks where board chair determine that individual privacy rights clearly exceed the merits of public disclosure. Trustee deliberation and possible vote to authorize MTSBA to make offer of employment to finalist on behalf of the District. 6. ADJORNMENT AND NEXT BOARD MEETING 6.1 Next Board of Trustees meeting will be February 10, 2025, at 7:00pm.
- UMW To Host BrainFest Mathematical Modeling Competition
The University of Montana Western Department of Mathematics invites all interested high school students to participate in UMW’s third annual BrainFest Mathematical Modeling Competition on Friday, February 21, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. in the Swysgood Technology Center (STC) Great Room. Participants will have the chance to win a $500 or $250 scholarship to UMW. BrainFest offers participants an immersive, hands-on, problem solving mathematical experience, showcasing the type of challenges Montana Western students and faculty tackle every block. This year’s BrainFest competition, titled “Dragons of the Triassic Sea,” invites students to explore the evolution and diversification of ichthyosaurs and how their biomechanics adapted to new environments. Participants will use a computer program to design their own ichthyosaurs, aiming to create the most competitive morphology. Once designs are complete, competitors will release their ichthyosaurs into an ecosystem simulator, where the models will compete against one another. The winner will be the student whose design proves to be the best ecological competitor. The participants will be supported by Montana Western mathematics majors; and UMW mathematics professors will be on hand to pose questions and provide guidance throughout the process as well. This free event also includes lunch for all participants. Students interested in the following topics are encouraged to sign up: Mathematics and/or natural sciences (e.g., evolution, ecological competition, biomechanics, population dynamic modeling, mathematical modeling, life history, ichthyosaurs) Problem-solving Asking questions and designing projects to find answers Collaborating with peers, math major mentors, and math professors Building connections and having fun “The UMW mathematics faculty are thrilled to offer BrainFest again. We enjoy preparing the event and guiding prospective students through the problem-solving process. Our favorite part is watching students’ curiosity grow as they explore the problem, ask deeper questions, and create even more innovative designs. Last year’s event was a great success, and we look forward to seeing what students come up with this year,” said BrainFest Coordinator and UMW Assistant Professor of Developmental Mathematics, Liz Wright. To register for the competition, visit https://tinyurl.com/BrainFest2025 . Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. For more information, please contact Liz Wright at liz.wright@umwestern.edu .
- Stan Schafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby Results
Submitted by: Mel Rice, Public Relations The 39th annual “Stan Shafer Memorial Ice Fishing Derby” was held at Clark Canyon Reservoir Sunday, January 19th. The event, sponsored by the Beaverhead Search and Rescue, started at 7:00 AM and had around 350+ enthusiastic participants who braved the balmy 10 degree weather. The morning was beautiful with no wind. Can’t say it stayed that way all day! Even though the weather changed, it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm of those trying to bring in the big money fish. It took a little time for the first fish to show up for weighing but after that, things were fairly steady with both ling and trout getting weighed in hopes of getting in one of the four money slots. Ticket sales this year were up considerably from last year. Everyone purchasing tickets, whether participating on the ice or not, had their ticket stubs in the barrel for the drawing of the 200+ door prizes. There were 4 drawings this year for the 50/50 pots, three winners received $250.00 and one received $140.00. The lucky ticket holders were yellow tickets 581307 and 581520, red ticket 329129, and a white ticket 553088. The winners of this year’s trout and ling competitions are: Adult Trout: 1st Place-Steven Heavren, Belgrade, 4 lb. 15.5 oz.------$400.00 2nd Place-Eldon Wheekly, Dillon, 4 lb. 9 oz.------$200.00 3rd Place-Noah Rovente, Lopez Island, Washington, 4 lb. 7.2 oz.------$100.00 4th Place-Chrystal White, Glen, 4 lb. 4.4 oz.------$50.00 Adult Ling: 1st Place-Kenneth Van Vallis, Missoula, 5 lb. 3.2 oz.------$400.00 2nd Place-Joseph Lema, Dillon, 4 lb. 13.0 oz.------$200.00 3rd Place-Brian Porter, Butte, 4 lb. 2.6 oz.------$100.00 4th Place-Samson Marshall, Bozeman, 4 lb. 0.8 oz.------$50.00 Kids Trout: 1st Place-Kenny Holland, Twin Bridges, MT, 3 lb. 8.9 oz.------$75.00 2nd Place-Jaycee Johnson, Dillon, MT, 3 lb. 6.3 oz.------$50.00 3rd Place (Tie) Baylee White, Glen, MT, and Colter Rabin, Twin Bridges, Mt, 3 lb. 4.3 oz ------$12.50 each Kids Ling : (only 1 fish turned in) 1st Place-Avery McCarthy, Dillon, MT, 2 lb. 13.1 oz.------$75.00 All in all, the derby was another great success. On behalf of your Beaverhead Search and Rescue, thank you! Tara Remely, the derby chairperson, would like to thank everyone; fisherpersons, ticket buyers, and especially those merchants for their generous donations to our door prize give-aways and helping with ticket sales. Please stop by those merchants who donated and thank them, especially those of you who were fortunate enough to win one of those prizes. If you weren’t present or left early and won a door prize, you will be notified of your winning and how to pick it up. Please check out the “Thank You” ad for the merchants’ list and merchandise given. Thanks to the following S&R members for helping set up and working the derby: Tara Remely (derby chairperson), Tommy Goins, Jason Erickson, Mel Rice, Steve Mock, Kolby Malesich, Chuck Maddox, Brad Wagner, Russ Sigman, Alan Holt, Gayle Rawson, Ray Gross, Trent Cottom, Jack Bazemore, Charles Weidow, David Broadhead, John Anthony Grant, Joshua Yeadon, Keri Carson, Lance Hopman, Adam Norlander, Charles Wharton, Dusty Crowe, and James Matthews. “In the Business of Saving Lives”, your Beaverhead SAR unit. Thank You Your Beaverhead Search and Rescue would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous donations to our 39 th annual ice fishing derby. Your generosity greatly helps our event be the success it is. Hats off to each and every one of you. 3-D-Scarf, Ear Warmer, Winter Hat 406 Armory-Hat, $20 Gift Card, Silver Eagle Anderson Platt- 3 Baseball Caps, Strike Indicator, Orvis Flow Zinger, Orvis Mitten Clamp, Umpqua Bug Locker Angler Village-$15 Gift Certificate, T-Shirt Atomic 79- T-Shirt, Hat, Wallaby Pouch Auto Barn- Alignment Certificate Badger Archery- Kids Bow and Arrows Bank of Commerce- 2 Stadium Seats Beaverhead Glass- Chip Repair Beaverhead Golf Course- Gift Certificate for Round of Golf Beaverhead Home Center- 2 Bags of Smoke Pellets Beaverhead Honey- Case of Honey Beaverhead Meats- Knife, Seasoning, Cutting Board Beaverhead Motor Sports- 2 Stocking Hats, 2 Lanyards, 2 Sweat Shirts, T Shirt, Jacket Big Tyme Sports Wear and Design- Cap Embroidering Buffalo Gal Hat Company- Hand Warmer Car Quest- 2 Hats, Sweat Shirt, Cooler, 2 Flash Lights Cranny’s- 2 T-Shirts DC Rental- $100 Rental Certificate Den, The- $75 Gift Card, Sweat Shirt Dillon Chiropractic- Certificate for 1 Treatment Dillon Collision Center- 2 $100 Certificates Dillon Family Dental- Electric Toothbrush Dillon Implement- 3 Sweat Shirts Dillon Liquor Store- 2 $25 Gift Certificates Elkhorn Hot Springs- 2 Passes, Certificates Fetty’s Café- $50 Gift Certificate Frontier Anglers- Hat, Sweat Shirt Frontline Ag- Sweatshirt, Toy Tractor G O Jerky Barn- 2 Gift Packs of Assorted Smoked Meats and Cheese H Bar J- T Shirt, 2 Bailys Shirts, 10 Captain Morgan Towels, 7 Crown Royal Scarves, Yellowstone Bourbon High Peaks- 2 $25 Gift Cards Hook & Horn- Certificate for Lunch Intermountain Irrigation- $50 Cash Jackson Lodge- 2 Swim Passes KDBM Radio- 2 Beaver Ball Caps, 1 Cubbies Ball Cap L S Ready Mix- Certificate for 10 Yards of Gravel Les Schwab- Gift Certificate for Alignment, Emergency Car Kit Mac’s Last Cast- Sweat Shirt Montana Energy & Alliance- Two Burner Propane Camp Stoves Murdochs- Fuel Pump N V Salon- Gift Certificate NAPA Auto Parts- 2 Heated Cushion Seats, Ratchet Set, Hat, Calendar Natasha Hirschy Massage- 2 One Hour Massages Papa T’s- 2 Pizza Certificates, 2 bottles Wild Turkey Patagonia- Baseball Cap Performance Auto- 2 Gun Oils, 2 Gun Cleaners Pivots Plus- Heated Stadium Seat Pomps- $100 Gift Certificate Ralphs Exxon- Ball Cap, $100 Gas Card Rattle Snake Alpaca- Hat, Pair of Gloves Rawson Ag- 2 Silver Dollars Rednecks Best- 2 Fire Starters Safeway- Letting the unit sell tickets in the lobby. Sentsy- Gift Basket Shepherds Garage- Hat, Sweat Shirt, Bob Cat Rental Silo Meats- Hamburger Patties, Case of Hot Dogs Sparky’s Garage- 2 Gift Cards Stage Line Pizza- Black Rifle Coffee Cup, Stocking Hat, Coffee Stock Drive Trailer Sales - Hat, Men’s Vest Subway- 14 6” Subs/Drink Sweet Water Coffee- Bag of Ground Coffee Table Top Vault- $50 Gift Card The Shop- $40 Pedicure Thomas Jewelers- Wrist Watch Top of the Hill Meats- Jerky Town & Country Foods- 2 $50 Gift Cards Vision Source- Sunnies & Cleaner Whites Power Sports- Helmet Womack Printing- Picture Frame, Certificate for 12” Print Thank You Your Beaverhead Search and Rescue would like to thank the following sponsors for their generous donations to our 39th annual ice fishing derby. Your generosity greatly helps our event be the success it is. Hats off to each and every one of you.
- Bulldog Women Come Up Short At Rocky Mountain College
University of Montana Western Press Release BILLINGS, Mont. – The Montana Western women's basketball team (7-10) fell short against No. 20 Rocky Mountain College (12-6), losing 68-81 this afternoon. The Bulldogs were led by Payton Hagy , who scored a career-high 20 points, including six three-pointers. How it Happened Maddy Moy got the Bulldogs off to a strong start, scoring six straight points. Hagy added two of her threes to help UMW take a 16-15 lead at the end of the first quarter. Both teams exchanged three-point shots in the second quarter, with Trinidie Nichols sinking two for the Bulldogs. However, Rocky Mountain took a three-point advantage into halftime. Coming out of the break, the Bulldogs briefly regained the lead at 43-41. Rocky Mountain responded by hitting three three-pointers, giving the Bears a four-point edge heading into the final quarter. Three-point shooting kept the Bulldogs in contention. After another three from Hagy, UMW reclaimed a 62-60 lead. However, Rocky Mountain closed the game on a 21-9 run over the last six minutes, securing the victory. Notables Moy recorded a double-double with 16 points, 11 rebounds, and four assists. Nichols added 12 points, shooting an impressive 4-5 from beyond the arc. The Bulldogs shot 56.5% from three-point range (13-23). A total of 47 three-point shots were attempted between the two teams. Rocky Mountain outscored Montana Western 36-10 in the paint. Up Next The Bulldogs will continue on the road as they head to Helena, to take on No. 22 Carroll College. for a 5 p.m. tip-off.


















