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University of Montana Western student Jonah Lindsey was recently awarded the 2024 Montana Student Volunteer Award for civic engagement and volunteerism. The award is presented through a partnership between the Governor’s Office of Community Service and Montana Campus Compact. The Montana Student Volunteer Award (MSVA) recognizes the exceptional dedication and commitment of college students across the state who have demonstrated outstanding service to their communities while pursuing their academic goals. Lindsey was one of eighteen Montana college students to receive the award.  Lindsey will be a senior this fall and is majoring in Ecology with a Fish & Wildlife option. Since coming to Montana Western, he has been committed to serving the university and the Dillon community. He has significantly contributed to the growth of the UMW Honors Student Association, actively promoting the Honors Program by organizing and participating in fundraising events to support student travel to the annual Western Regional Honors Council (WRHC) Conference. As a primary promoter at the last three X-Day/Preview Day events, Lindsey has played a crucial role in showcasing the benefits of the Honors Program. Additionally, he founded the Babble Society, UMW’s language club, to foster language learning and cultural appreciation among students. “It’s easy to feel self-doubt while doing volunteer work or outreach, as the impacts often take weeks, months, or even years to become visible. However, recognitions like this affirm that our hard work is making a difference,” said Lindsey. “When it comes to promoting ecology, sustainability, and supporting youth, I feel like I’m just getting started. I couldn’t have achieved this without the support of my relatives, close friends, and the young people in my community. I look forward to all we will accomplish together in the future.” The University of Montana Western is proud to recognize Lindsey’s contributions, which have made a positive impact on the UMW community and beyond.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. –  After a strong 2023-24 season, the Bulldog men repeated as the reserve champions in the Big Sky Region and will return as a team to the College National Finals Rodeo (CNFR) in June. Four Bulldog men claimed regional titles after the spring season. "We are really excited to get to the final this year. I think this group gives us a good chance to see some real success," Head Coach JT Robbins said. "The mix of experience and talented rookies make it pretty exciting." The Bulldogs will send a total of eight men to compete at the CNFR in just under one month, with a full men's team slated to compete as a team at the finals. The Bulldog men are currently ranked as the 10th team in the country by points after this season. In addition to the men who qualified for the finals, Tavy Leno qualified for the finals for the first time in her career in two different events. "Tavy going down there for the women is exciting. The set up in Casper really fits Tavy's style in both events." Robbins continued. Entries Cade Costello , a freshman saddle bronc rider from Newel, S.D., found his way on to the college finals after he placed second in the Big Sky region in saddle bronc riding. Costello found success this season, earning numerous top five placings and a win at the first MSU spring rodeo. He is sitting at number 24 in the national rankings heading into the finals. Trevor Kay , a junior bareback rider from Chester, Idaho, earned his third trip to the CNFR; though it will be his second trip due to an injury that sidelined him last year. He enters the finals as the number two rider in the nation after finishing on top of the average standings in the Big Sky Region this year. Kay has remained consistent this season, winning the average title in eight of the ten rodeos this season. Gavin Knutson , a sophomore from Polson, Mont., makes his second appearance at the CNFR this year. Knutson has been an all-around cowboy for the Bulldogs, placing sixth in the men's all-around standings this season. In addition to his top placing in bull riding, Knutson placed seventh in the men's tie down roping for the region. Knutson will be competing in bull riding at the finals and enters the CNFR as the fifth ranked bull rider in the nation. Jhet Murphy , a senior from Helena, Mont., takes his second trip to the CNFR for the Bulldogs. Murphy finished third in the team roping as a header with his partner from the University of Montana. After facing an injury early in the spring, Murphy fought back and was able to claim a spot at the finals. In addition to top three in the region in team roping, Murphy finished sixth overall in steer wrestling. Cooper Pavkov , a sophomore header from Gooding, Idaho, and senior heeler Luke Murphy from Helena, Mont. qualified for their first trip to the College National Finals. The pair finished second overall in the Big Sky Region in team roping. The pair placed in the top three in four rodeos this year and earned a total of 501 points on the season. Jake Deveraux , a junior header from Newcastle, Wyo., and senior heeler Teegan Leno from Sheridan, Wyo. qualified for their first trip together to the College National Finals. The pair finished on top of the standings in the Big Sky Region in team roping. The combo won both the UMW home rodeo and the second MSU spring rodeo, while also placing in the top three in numerous other rodeos this season. On his own, Deveraux finished seventh in the men's all-around standings while claiming eighth in tie down roping. Deveraux and Leno sit at number 15 in the national standings for team roping. Tavy Leno , the lone cowgirl competing at the finals for the Bulldogs, is a sophomore from Sheridan, Wyo. Leno qualified in both breakaway roping and goat tying after she claimed third place finishes in both events in the Big Sky Region. Leno was the reserve champion all-around cowgirl for the region and won numerous buckles across the season. The Bulldogs await the position draw for the finals that will be released on June 2 by the NIRA national office. The College National Finals Rodeo is also expanding live television coverage on ESPN this year. All performances of the CNFR—Tuesday through Saturday will air on ESPN3. More information on the event will be released closer to the finals.

Lima Fire was called out Sunday afternoon to a small fire in the median on I-15 near MM34. The quick response time allowed them to keep the fire contained to a small patch in the median. After cleaning up they found a loose wheel nut from a vehicle that could have been the cause of the fire. Sheriff Wendt would like to remind people to make sure they are not dragging trailer chains or other items that could spark, possibly causing a fire.

The Lady Beavers faced off against the Frenchtown Broncs Saturday evening in Ronan. The Beavers would lose 5 to 7 and take fourth place in the divisional tournament and earn a spot in the state tournament. The Beavers would get on the board in the first inning when Emily Brevig singled, scoring two runs. The Broncs would tie the game in the bottom of the first thanks to a single by Alexis Godin, and a ground out by Carah Evans. Emily Brevig went 1 for 1 at the plate as the outfielder led the team with two runs batted in. Ashlyn Burk, Emily Brevig, Tyler Gibson, and Kylie Konen each collected one hit for the Lady Beavers. Kinzy Creighton led the Beavers with three walks, overall the Beavers tallied five walks in the game. The Lady beavers will head to Billings for the State Tournament sitting in 4th place.

Polson, MT The Lady Beavers played the Columbia Falls Wildcats today on their second game of the Divisional Softball Tournament. The Beavers had some trouble keeping up with the Wildcats losing 1 to 6. Haden Peters would single in the bottom of the first putting the Wildcats on the board. The Wildcats would follow it up in the bottom of the fifth scoring five runs on six hits. Tyler Gibson would lead the Beavers with two hits in four at bats. The Lady Beavers will play at 5 PM against Frenchtown to earn either the 3rd or 4th seed for state.

Ronan, MT The Lady Beavers softball team took on the Ronan Maidens Friday evening in the State District Tournament. The Lady Beavers came out on top with a 7 to 6 win. The Beavers would take the lead late in the game, tied at 6 in the bottom of the sixth Adyson Creighton would single, scoring one run giving the Beavers a 7 to 6 lead. Ronan would be held at 6 giving the Beavers the win. The Ronan Maidens would get on the board in the first due to an error on the Beavers, the Maidens would also score on a passed ball, and Kailyn Marengo stole home, each scoring a run. Adison Creighton would ground out, helping the Beavers tie the game at three in the bottom of the second. Bottom of the third the Beavers would go into the lead after Emily Brevig tripled, and Tymber Barnes doubled, each scoring one run. The Ronan Maidens would tie the game in the top of the sixth thanks to a home run to center field by Raela Bartel, and a double by Ernistine Tapia-Torosian. Adyson Creighton earned the win for the Beavers. The starting pitcher gave up eight hits and six runs(three earned) over seven innings, striking out 11 and walking one. Adyson Creighton, Emily Brevig, and Tymber Barnes each collected two hits for the Lady Beavers. Adyson Creighton, Emily Brevig, Bailey Blake, and Tymber Barnes each drove in one run for the Beavers. Dillon will play Columbia Falls tomorrow at 1 PM.

CEMETERY COMMITTEE MEETING  May 21, 2024  4:00 P.M. AGENDA   1.            Call To Order 2.            Discuss New Truck for Cemetery 3.            Review/Approve Changes to Title 11. 3.         Public Comment On Items Of Significant Public Interest Not On The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction Of The City 4.         Adjournment   Committee Members: Diane Armstrong, Chairperson Mary Jo O’Rourke Anneliese Ripley

In Dillon on Interchange Road, the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and L & J Construction Group LLC have shifted traffic to the south side of the bridge while they work on the north side. Drivers can still expect temporary traffic lights and one-way traffic with minor delays. A 14-ft width restriction remains in place.

405 N. IDAHO STREET DILLON, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY May 21, 2024 5:00 PM AGENDA: I. Call to order II. Approval of Minutes from 04-16-2024 meeting Public Comment III. Approval of Warrants Public Comment IV. Old Business Public Comment V. New Business Public Comment VI. Chiefs Report Public Comment VII. Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda. VIII. Adjournment

Dr. Shay Kidd, an Associate Professor at the University of Montana Western, has been recognized with a teaching award from the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Montana State University. This award acknowledges Dr. Kidd's exceptional contributions and dedication to mathematics education. Dr. Kidd serves as an Associate Professor in the Education division at Montana Western, specializing in teaching the mathematics methods course for Elementary and Secondary Education majors. His commitment to teaching extends beyond the university setting as he actively engages as a K-12 teacher for Idaho’s online school, maintaining a direct connection with students and integrating current educational experiences into his teaching at Montana Western. Dr. Kidd played a significant role in Montana’s revision of K-12 Mathematics Standards. His contributions ranged from revising existing standards to ensuring a seamless development of mathematical themes across grades. Notably, Dr. Kidd advocated for the inclusion of cultural considerations in mathematics teaching, aligning with the state’s focus on Indigenous Education for All (IEFA) aspects. In recognition of his outstanding contributions, Dr. Kidd was selected for the teaching award funded by Dr. William Stannard, a generous donor to the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Montana State University. This annual award celebrates Montana faculty members who exemplify superior mathematics teaching outside of Montana State University.  Upon receiving news of the award, Dr. Kidd expressed gratitude and dedication to advancing mathematics education. He continues to enhance his teaching practices through fieldwork at Montana Youth Challenge and remains actively involved in community initiatives such as Cub Scouts and Girls Scout groups in Dillon. “This is an unexpected honor and I am truly humbled to receive it. I look forward to many more years of learning myself, as I get to teach at the University of Montana Western,” said Kidd.  To learn more about the University of Montana Western, please call 877-683-7331 or visit  www.umwestern.edu .

Barrett Hospital and Health Care has been celebrating Hospital Week all week long. The Hospital has had different activities planned throughout the week, for the staff, as a way to show how much they appreciated them and a heart felt thank you. On Wednesday May 15th the staff got a special visit a few lucky dogs from the Beaverhead County Animal Shelter came to help them unwind. The rambunctious four legged friends eagerly awaited staff members to come out play with them and to go on a walk. According to Christie Trapp " This unique initiative is not just about bringing joy to our hospital staff; it also highlights the therapeutic benefits of animal interactions. Research shows that spending time with animals can help reduce stress, improve mood, and promote overall well-being." All those who participated fell in love with their furry friends a few snapped a couple picture to send home to a spouse to show them what might come home with them. But best of all the health care workers took a few minutes out of their day to unwind and spend some time with the shelter animals. Enjoy the photo gallery below.

Campus Compact, a national coalition of colleges and universities working to advance the public purposes of higher education, has named the student civic leaders from 38 states, Washington, D.C., and Mexico who will make up the 2024-2025 cohort of Newman Civic Fellows. Gracie Stanton, a student at the University of Montana Western, was named as a member of the cohort. The Newman Civic Fellowship is a yearlong program that recognizes students who stand out for their leadership potential and commitment to creating positive change in communities. The fellowship is named for the late Frank Newman, one of Campus Compact’s founders, who was a tireless advocate for civic engagement in higher education. In the spirit of Dr. Newman’s leadership, each fellow is nominated by their campus president or chancellor, who is invited to select one exemplary community-committed student from their campus each year. UMW cohort Gracie Stanton is a third-year student and active campus and community leader. She is a peer-to-peer mentor in our TRIO Student Support Services program, where she plans engagement events for first-year students and serves as a first point of contact for student issues. She is also a member of the Student Leadership Academy on campus. This group focuses on developing a community of campus leaders and promoting professional development across campus. She is also committed to youth health and wellness in the broader community. She currently teaches for the Dillon Martial Arts studio, teaching young people about the importance of discipline, health, and confidence. “We are incredibly proud of Gracie for being selected as a Campus Compact Newman Civic Fellow. This prestigious recognition highlights her exceptional commitment to community service and civic engagement. Gracie embodies the values of leadership, compassion, and dedication that we strive to instill in all our students at the University of Montana Western. Her efforts are a testament to the positive impact that one individual can have on their community, and we are excited to see how she will continue to drive meaningful change both locally and beyond,” said Montana Western Chancellor, Michael Reid. Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides these students with learning and networking opportunities that help to nurture their development as civic leaders. Programming emphasizes personal, professional, and civic growth that can empower them to collaborate effectively across disciplines and create large-scale positive change. The cornerstone of the fellowship is the Annual Convening of Newman Civic Fellows, which offers intensive in-person skill-building and networking over three days. The fellowship also provides fellows with pathways to apply for exclusive opportunities, including mini-grants to help fund community projects, scholarships, and post-graduate opportunities. “We are honored to recognize such an outstanding group of community-committed students,” said Campus Compact President Bobbie Laur. “One of the best parts of the Newman Civic Fellowships is the richness of students’ perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds—and how these varied stories all led to their passionate engagement with the social, political, and environmental issues impacting our world. These students will be the catalysts for change on many levels, and we are privileged to help empower them to create that change.” To learn more about each of the student leaders selected for this year’s cohort, visit  compact.org/current-programs/newman-civic-fellowship/newman-civic-fellows .

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. – University of Montana Western sixth-year head volleyball coach Katie Lovett has announced her team's schedule for the 2024 season. The slate includes three preseason non-conference tournaments, as well as the annual Frontier and North Star crossover that splits up the 15-match slate of Frontier Conference action. Montana Western begins the season Aug. 16-17 in Caldwell, Idaho for the College of Idaho Preseason Tournament. UMW opens with powerhouse and 2023 NAIA national tournament semifinalist Viterbo University (Wis.). They will then follow with a tough Morningside University (Iowa) on the opening day. They close out the weekend with host College of Idaho, followed by another big matchup with 2023 NAIA tournament semifinalist Eastern Oregon. After packing a punch with their opening weekend, the Bulldogs then travel to Louisiana where they will face Webber International (Fla.), Loyola (La.), and Texas Wesleyan from Aug. 23 through the 24. UMW finishes its preseason tournament play at Ottawa University Arizona from Aug. 30-31 as they face Arizona Christian, Ottawa University Arizona, and Embry Riddle (Ariz.). "We have a really competitive preseason schedule lined up for us this year. The College of Idaho tournament always brings in phenomenal competition that will challenge us right away," Lovett said. "The Loyola tournament is another one we are really looking forward to, especially getting to play teams we do not typically see over our direction. OUAZ is always a great tournament to finish up with getting to play good competition to get us ready for a very tough Frontier Conference." The Bulldogs open their Frontier schedule at home as they host MSU-Northern on Sept. 13. UMW is set to play three matches against all Frontier opponents, with the schedule being split down the middle by the Frontier and North Star crossover that is hosted this year by Rocky Mountain College. The Bulldogs will face Valley City State (N.D.), Jamestown (N.D.), and Dickinson State (N.D.) from Oct. 10-12. "As usual, all of the Frontier teams are going to be tough opponents. Even teams that graduated big playmakers have brought in great talent to not skip a beat," Lovett continued. "We competed well this spring and worked really hard to put us in a good mindset for this upcoming season." Frontier action will culminate with the 2024 Frontier Conference Tournament on Nov. 15-16 that will be hosted by MSU-Northern this year. The Bulldogs will look to channel the late season magic of the 2023 season and claim an NAIA playoff berth following the tournament. "Post season is always a fun time at the Conference Tournament, and we are hoping to put ourselves in a good position through the regular season to make the most of the opportunity the tournament presents," Lovett said. To view the fill schedule, click here.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING May 16th , 2024 9:00 a.m. ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Discuss/Recommend FY 2024-2025 Budget Items a. Water & Sewer i. Water Utility ii. Water Reserve for Replacement iii. Capital Project River iv. Sinking River Crossing Bond v. Sewer Utility vi. Sewer Reserve for Replacement vii. 2015 Waste Water Plant b. Streets i. Lighting District #33 ii. Sprinkling District #1 iii. Street Maintenance District iv. Gas Tax v. Gas Tax – Special Road vi. Reserve for Street & Alley vii. Reserve – Sweeper viii. Reserve Fund for Shop viiii. Reserve for Street x. Idaho Street Project 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, Anneliese Ripley

May 15th, 2024   7:00 P.M.   REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA     PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     A.           MINUTES 1.         Approve May 1st, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes 2.         Approve May 1st, 2024 Public Hearing Minutes 3.         Approve May 6th, 2024 Special City Council Meeting Minutes   B.           PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS         1.            Arbor Day Proclamation   C.           MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Council President’s Changes to Committee’s 2.         Discuss/Approve Legal Services Agreement 3.         Review Termination of Legal Services Agreement Dated May 6, 2024 4.         Discuss/Approve Agreement between The City of Dillon and Local #7774 for Fiscal Year 2024-2025   D.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Lori Canady, Library Director 2.         Planning Board - Bill Shafer                         a.         Accept April 18th, 2024 Special Meeting Minutes                         b.         Accept April 25th, 2024 Special Meeting Minutes                                     i.          Approve Clover View Minor Subdivision Preliminary Plat                         c.         Accept May 2nd, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes i.          Approve Resolution of Intent No 1457 Setting Public Hearing to Vacate Streets in Tully Springs ii.          Approve Resolution of Intent No 1458 Setting Public Hearing to Accept Streets 3.         Zoning Commission -  Raymond Graham, Russ Schwandt                         a.         Accept April 23rd, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes                         b.         Accept April 23rd, 2024 Public Hearing Transcript                         c.         Accept April 30th, 2024 Special Meeting Minutes                                     d.         Accept May 6th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes i.          Discuss/Approve Findings of Fact Clover View Annexation & Zoning ii.          Approve Resolution of Intent No 1459 Setting Public Hearing on Zoning/Annexation of Clover View Subdivision iii.         Approve Resolution No 1460 Annexation and Zoning of Montana Western Athletic Complex 4.         Board of Adjustments - Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz 5.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6.         Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez                         a.         Accept the April 2024 Incident Report                       7.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose                         a.         Accept the April 2024 Activity Report                         b.         Accept the City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for April, 2024                         c.          Accept the Budget vs. Expenditures for Fire Hall for April, 2024 8.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox                         a.         Accept April 2024 Court Report 9.         Treasurer – Karen Kipp 10.       Tree Board – Mary Jo O’Rourke                                 E.         REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Judiciary Committee – Raymond Graham, Diane Armstrong 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Anneliese Ripley 3.         Fire and Order Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Bill Shafer, Mary Jo O’Rourke 4.         Health and Welfare – Bill Shafer, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz  5.         Cemetery Committee – Diane Armstrong, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Anneliese Ripley 6.         Parks Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz 7.         City Hall Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke 8.         Street and Alley Committee – Russ Schwandt, Joleen Schultz                         a.         Approve May 6th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes 9.          Water and Sewer Committee – Bill Shafer, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley                         a.         Approve May 2nd, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes                           F.         PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE  AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY   G.        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.

PARKS COMMITTEE MEETING City Council Chambers Wednesday May 15 th , 2024 4:00 P.M. AGENDA 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Discuss/Recommend Making Jaycee Park Dog Free 3. Update on Vigilante Park Lights and Cameras 4. Discuss/Recommend Park Projects 5. Update on Parks from Parks Maintenance Leader 6. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City. 7. Adjourn Parks Committee Members: Raymond Graham (Chair); Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz

From Montana Highway Patrol Friday, May 10, MHP reports a one vehicle accident involving a fatality. A Ford pickup truck traveling in the westbound lane at milepost 201 went halfway into the median, when the driver tried to correct, they lost control. The vehicle slid sideways across both lanes before leaving the right side of the roadway. The vehicle slid down an embankment and into a ditch. The vehicle overturned multiple times and both occupants were ejected. The driver was later pronounced deceased at the hospital.