125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana  Tuesday, January 7th, 2025 at 12:30 P.M. City Council Chambers  Planning Board Meeting AGENDA   A.   Call Meeting to Order B.   Review and Approval of Minutes from the December 5th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes C.    Election of Officers D.   Review/Update Planning Board By-Laws E.    Review/Approve Growth Policy Survey F.    Update of Beaverhead County Planning Board Activities G.   Public Comment on items of significant public interest not on the agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Planning Board. H.   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

DVFD responded to 10 calls for service during the month of December 2024.      12-01               Chreston Ln                            Grass Fire 12-04               N Montana                              Fire Alarm 12-04               91N MM13                             Vehicle Accident 12-06               N Railroad                              Structure Fire 12-07               N Railroad                              Smoke from Structure Fire 12-09               Barnett                                    Gas Odor 12-11               W Center                                 Smoke Alarm 12-16               Schoolhouse RD                     Glen Dumpster Fire 12-23               White LN and Blacktail          Vehicle Accident 12-27               S Dakota                                 Gas Odor     December monthly training included low angle rope rescue with the Beaverhead County Search & Rescue, Railroad Emergency Training as well as continuing our structural FF-1 training for the rookies.  We also trained on tender operations when we filled the community skating rink.   Thanks to all of our firefighters & officers for their continued dedication to the City of Dillon & Beaverhead Fire District #2  Thank you for your continued support of the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department.   Please be safe & take extra time while traveling this time of year as the road conditions can become dangerous without warning.  Lets make 2025 the best year yet!!

Call For Artists: Wrap Our Ride! Do you have a design idea for the City of Dillon Police Department’s Ford Interceptor? The Police Department is looking to artists to design an artistic vinyl wrap for the Ford interceptor, which will be used as part of an innovative approach that not only will enhance the visibility and presence of our police force, but also serve as a mobile billboard showcasing Dillon’s unique attractions and welcoming visitors. Submissions will be accepted until January 31st, 2025 at 5:00 p.m. The winning artist will get to:  Have their own design turned into a vehicle wrap for the patrol car  Be recognized in the Police Department’s social media initiative  Be invited to reveal the finished design at an open house hosted by the City of Dillon, Montana Department of Commerce Office of Tourism, and the Dillon Police Department Dillon area residents were asked to vote on a theme to best represent the City of Dillon, and artists are asked to consider the top three themes that were picked:  Beaverhead County High School Beavers and University of Montana Western Bulldogs  Rodeo and Ranching  Fishing and Hunting Artists must consider the surfaces of the vehicle which will have the vinyl wrap applied, for example there can be no graphics in front two windows and front windshield. A detailed outline of the vehicle as well as the submission form is available online at https://www.dillonmt.org/patrolling-with-pride . Artists may submit multiple designs, but one submission form should accompany each design.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. —  The Frontier Conference announced this week's ERCK Hotels Women's Basketball Players of the Week this afternoon. Maddy Moy was selected as the conference Defensive Player of the Week. Moy, a sophomore guard from Kalispell, Mont., was selected as the Defensive Player of the Week after she led the Bulldogs with an impressive six steals and seven defensive rebounds, propelling UMW to an 87-34 home victory over Keyano College. She also registered a block in the game. This is Moy's second career Erck Hotels / Frontier Conference Player of the Week award.

University of Montana Western Press Release DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western women's basketball team (5-7) claimed a decisive 77-48 victory over Alberta-Augustana (2-9) in a non-conference game this afternoon. "We started off a little slow but the girls responded and took control of the game," Head Coach Britt Cooper said. "There was a lot of fight on this team that we hope to bring into next weekend." After tying her career high set in last night's matchup, Keke Davis led the Bulldogs by scoring 15 points and grabbing nine rebounds while also contributing three steals.   How it Happened Led by Davis and Payton Hagy , the Bulldogs started the game out by outscoring the Vikings and racing to a 21-11 first quarter lead. Isabella Lund helped lead the Bulldogs on a 7-0 run to start the second quarter with Maddy Moy hitting a jumper to give the Bulldogs a 47-26 lead at the break. Shooting 43.7 percent from the field in the third quarter, the Bulldogs were led in scoring by Davis and Kenzi Pedersen as they extended their lead to 65-38. Freshman Kyle Pancost came in hot, scoring five points off the bench and grabbing 11 rebounds on the way to finish off the Vikings 77-48 Notables Hagy scored nine points, a team high six assists, and a steal. Sammi Love added 11 points, two assists, and went five for six from the charity stripe. The Bulldogs shot 88.9% from the free-throw line, converting 16 of 18 attempts. Kyle Pancost led the team with a career high 11 rebounds. The Bulldogs capitalized on their defensive intensity, forcing 28 turnovers and scoring 31 points off those opportunities.   Up Next The Bulldogs will open Frontier Conference play as they travel to Montana State University-Northern on Saturday, January 6 for a 2 p.m. tip-off.

University of Montana Western Press Release DILLON, Mont. – The Montana Western men's basketball team (8-5) rolled to a decisive 85-44 victory over the University of Alberta-Augustana (2-9) in a non-conference game this afternoon. "Two great team wins this weekend. We had a lot of guys step up and received contributions from everyone," Head Coach Pat Jensen said. "It was good to be back in the gym with our guys this week after Christmas break! On to conference play now!" Alan Kane led the way for the Bulldogs with 33 points and tied the school record for field goal percentage in a game, going a perfect 12-12 and tied the school record for 3-pt percentage in a game going 6-6 from beyond the arc.    How it Happened Kolter Merritt got the Bulldogs rolling with his relentless defense on his way to tying the school record for steals in a game with six and also led UMW with 12 first half points. The Bulldogs over the last 14:15 in the first half used a 37-7 run to take a 47-14 lead into halftime. Led by Kane, the hot shooting continued in the second half with the Bulldogs shooting 48.6 percent from the field and getting 14 points from their bench while scoring seven points off four steals. The Bulldogs would finish strong by taking an 85-44 victory. Notables Merritt finished with 14 points on a 7-10 shooting day, six steals, four assists, and eight rebounds. Colter Charlesworth scored six points, two steals, one block, and two rebounds. Jacob Ankeny was a perfect 3-3 from the field and tallied five rebounds in 11 minutes of action. The Bulldogs scored 31 points off of 19 Viking turnovers. UMW received quality scoring production off the bench totaling 32 points. Up Next The Bulldogs will open Frontier Conference play as they travel to Montana State University-Northern on Saturday, January 6 for a 4 p.m. tip-off.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers January 2, 2025  12:05 P.M. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA     PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     A.         FINANCE COMMITTEE  – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Diane Armstrong                         a.         Approve December 27, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes                         b.          Approve Line Item Budget Report                                     i.          Approve Fund Summary for Claims for December 2024                                     ii.         Approve Claims by Vendor Report for December 2024                                     iii.        Approve Mayor’s Report to the Finance Committee for December                                                             2024                                     iv.        Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for December 2024                                           B.        PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE  AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY   C.        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.

1 25 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers January 2, 2025 12:15 P.M. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA     PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     A.         APPOINT NEW SUB-COMMITTEE AND BOARD ASSIGNMENTS             a.         Sub-Committee’s                         i.          Public Works (Water & Sewer, Street & Alley)                                     a.         Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley, Raymond Graham                         ii.         Public Services (Health, Welfare, Fire & Order )                                     a.         Diane Armstrong, Bill Shafer, (vacant)                         iii.        Ordinance & Facilities (Judicial, City Hall)                                     a.         Bill Shafer, Joleen Schultz, Mary Jo O’Rourke                         iv.        Open Spaces (Parks, Cemetery)                                     a.         Raymond Graham, Anneliese Ripley, Joleen Schultz                         v.         Finance Commi ttee                                     a.         Russ Schwandt, Diane Armstrong, Mary Jo O’Rourke             b.         Board Assignments                         i.          Library Board :                                     a.         Reappoint Ashley Vanhorne                           ii.         Tree Board :                                      a.         Reappoint Councilperson O’Rourke as council member, Tim                                                             Egan, Ann Egan and Kathy Shipman                         iii.        Planning Board :                                        a.         Reappoint Dan Nye and Michael Saunders.                                     b.         Appoint Raymond Graham                         iv.        Zoning Board                                     a.         Appoint Anneliese Ripley                         iv.         City-County Health :                                        a.         Reappoint Russ Schwandt                                      B.        PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE  AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY   C.        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.

Dillon, Montana – December 30, 2024 – Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is pleased to announce the appointment of Sandra McIntyre, MD, FACP as Chief Medical Officer (CMO), effective January 01, 2025. Dr. McIntyre, a respected internal medicine physician, is poised to lead the organization’s commitment to providing high-quality patient care and advancing clinical excellence in her new leadership role. In her new role as Chief Medical Officer, Dr. McIntyre will be responsible for overseeing the delivery of all medical services, enhancing patient safety and quality initiatives, and fostering a culture of collaboration among clinical teams. She will also play a critical role in the strategic planning of clinical services, implementation of innovative healthcare, and the mentorship of medical staff to ensure continuous professional development. Dr. McIntyre's appointment follows the outstanding tenure of Dr. Greg Moore, MD, FACEP, FAWM who has served as CMO since 2019. Dr. Moore will continue to contribute his expertise to Barrett Hospital & HealthCare by practicing emergency medicine, where his skills and dedication will remain a valuable asset to our community. Taylor Rose, CEO of Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, shared his enthusiasm regarding Dr. McIntyre’s appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to have Dr. McIntyre as our new Chief Medical Officer. Her extensive experience in internal medicine and her passion for patient-centered care will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our clinical services. I have every confidence that under her leadership, we will continue to raise the standard of care we provide to our community.” Reflecting on Dr. Moore’s impactful tenure, Rose added, “We cannot thank Dr. Greg Moore enough for his dedication and contributions during his time as CMO. Dr. Moore stepped into the Chief Medical Officer role when it was created in 2019, right before major changes and challenges in healthcare took place. His commitment to improving healthcare delivery has left a lasting legacy at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, and we look forward to seeing his continued impact in emergency medicine.” Dr. McIntyre expressed her excitement for her new role: “It is an honor to step into the position of Chief Medical Officer at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare. I am committed to working alongside our exceptional medical staff to prioritize patient care and implement innovative approaches that support our mission of improving lives by providing local healthcare.”

GREAT FALLS – Applications for a permit to float the Smith River will be available beginning on Jan. 2, 2025, and will be accepted through Feb. 15, 2025. The permit drawing will be held on Feb. 19, 2025. Celebrated for its spectacular scenery, remote location and excellent fishing, floating the Smith River is one of Montana’s most sought-after outdoor recreation experiences. Permits are required to float the 59-mile section of river between Camp Baker and Eden Bridge and are issued each year through a lottery drawing. Parties of up to 15 people can float with one permit. A person applying for a Smith River permit must be a minimum of 12 years of age at the time they submit their permit application. There is no age restriction to participate on a Smith River float trip. Applicants can apply for a Smith River float permit online beginning Jan. 2 through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks  Automated Licensing System , and pay a $15 non-refundable permit application fee. Successful Smith River applicants will be notified via email shortly after the permit drawing is conducted on Feb. 19, 2025.  Links within the notification email to successful applicants will allow them to download and print their float permit, as well as access vital and detailed information regarding their upcoming Smith River float. Results will also be available online at  stateparks.mt.gov . Those who receive a permit will be contacted by phone two days prior to their scheduled launch date to complete the registration process, which includes declaring boat camps and paying the appropriate float fees.  In addition to the permit drawing, the public may purchase as many $5 Super Permit chances as they wish. Montana State Parks issues one Super Permit each year through a separate lottery. The recipient of the Super Permit will be allowed to launch on any date of their choosing for that float season. The opportunity to purchase chances for the Smith River Super Permit will be available from Jan. 2 through April 1, 2025. The Super Permit drawing will take place on April 4, 2025. Super permit chances may be purchased online through FWP’s  Automated Licensing System . As a reminder, all float parties, private and commercial, will be required to pack out their human waste from the Smith River corridor, and floaters will need to pack portable toilet systems. To see a list of FWP-approved, portable, hard-sided toilets that will be allowed click here . Alternative waste disposal systems, including bag systems, such as Clean Waste and RESTOP2, will not be allowed. Floaters can clean and sanitize their portable toilet system with a SCAT (Sanitizing Containers with Alternative Technology) machine, which has been installed at the Eden Bridge take-out. For more information about Smith River State Park visit:   stateparks.mt.gov/smith-river/

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. –  The Montana Western women's basketball team (4-7) got back on track this afternoon in an 87-34 rout of Keyano College (AB). Keke Davis led the Bulldogs with a career high 15 points off of a 7-9 shooting performance from the field. "Both teams scrapped hard for 40 minutes. Our ladies battled the whole game, which gave our younger players some quality time on the court," Head Coach Britt Cooper said. "A great team win for us as we get ready for conference." How It Happened Montana Western capitalized on turnovers in the opening minutes, leading to a 14-4 opening quarter lead. Davis got Western rolling in the second quarter, hitting a triple followed by a pair of buckets to put Western up by 21 points in the first four minutes of the second quarter. A layup from Ava Bellach in the final minute gave the Bulldogs enough of a push to take a 44-16 lead into the half. Keyano found some rhythm, riding behind a 10-0 scoring run midway through the third quarter. The Huskies' run was short-lived as Isabella Lund broke the streak with back-to-back layups. Bellach added to the quarter by hitting a pair of triples split by a fastbreak layup to flip momentum back in favor of the Bulldogs and help UMW to take a 64-30 lead into the final frame. Montana Western's bench players contributed significantly in the fourth, combining for 21 points and securing the 87-34 victory. Notables The Bulldogs combined to shoot 49.3 percent in the game, with a second quarter high of 77.8 percent from the field. UMW's bench added 40 points in today's win, with Bellach hitting a career high 14 points in the game. The Bulldog defense forced Keyano into 30 turnovers in the game, with both Kylee Old Elk and Maddy Moy each totaling six steals. Davis hit a career high 15 points off of a 7-9 shooting performance from the field. She also added six rebounds, two steals, and an assist. Moy and Bellach matched each other's shooting on the afternoon with 14 points apiece. Moy also led the Bulldogs with seven rebounds. Up Next The Bulldogs will look to build upon today's win as they take on Alberta-Augustana (AB) today at 12pm.

HELENA – Submissions for the 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp contest are due by Jan. 31. This is the second year of the new Montana Migratory Bird Stamp program. Details on contest rules and entry information can be found here . The winning artist will receive a $2,000 cash prize and be featured on promotional materials throughout 2025. Last year, the first year of the contest, Florida artist John Nelson Harris won with his painting of a pintail. His painting was one of 70 submissions from artists around the country. The 2025 Montana Migratory Bird Stamp will not be required to hunt migratory birds in Montana. To hunt migratory birds, hunters will need a current Montana migratory bird license and their federal duck stamp, the same as in years past.  Those who purchase a Montana migratory bird license will receive a free collectable sticker showing the winning artwork and information about Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ Migratory Bird Wetland Program. The program helps landowners and other conservation partners develop and fund projects that protect, conserve, enhance or create high-quality wetland habitat. The Wetlands Protection Advisory Council will select the winning art in early February. For more information on the contest, contact Greg Lemon at glemon@mt.gov . For more information on the Migratory Bird Wetland Program, click here .

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS December 30th, 2024 City Council Chambers 7:00 P.M. AGENDA     1.         Call Meeting to Order 2.         Approval of Minutes from the December 17th, 2024 Meeting 3.         Review/Approve Findings of Fact Johnson Variance 4.         Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Board of Adjustments. 5.         Adjourn       Members: Tim Stoker, Joleen Schultz, Diane Armstrong, Mike Watson, Stephen Sievert

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that 21 Montana cities, towns, counties and water and sewer districts will share nearly $800,000 of grant funding to help communities plan infrastructure projects that will construct or upgrade drinking water, wastewater and stormwater systems. The funding is through Commerce’s Montana Coal Endowment Program. “MCEP planning grants help communities prepare for critical infrastructure system improvements so residents can count on good quality drinking water and reliable wastewater services,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. The MCEP program is designed to help address the affordability of local infrastructure projects by providing grants to lower the cost of constructing public facilities. The following communities and districts will receive MCEP planning grants: The Assiniboine and Sioux Tribe will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The Town of Bearcreek will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. Beaverhead County Jackson Water and Sewer District will receive $27,000 to complete a wastewater system preliminary engineering report. The Town of Belt will receive $32,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The City of Billings will receive $40,000 to complete a stormwater system preliminary engineering report. The City of Choteau will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report update. The Town of Clyde Park will receive $30,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The City of Cut Bank will receive $40,000 to complete a wastewater system preliminary engineering report. The City of Dillon will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The Town of Fairview will receive $40,000 to complete a wastewater system preliminary engineering report. The Fort Belknap Indian Community will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The City of Fort Benton will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report update. The City of Hamilton will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The Hinsdale County Water and Sewer District will receive $40,000 to complete a wastewater system preliminary engineering report. The North Havre County Water District will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. Powell County will receive $40,000 to complete a stormwater system preliminary engineering report. The City of Red Lodge will receive $30,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report update. The Riverside County Water and Sewer District will receive $40,000 to complete a water system preliminary engineering report. The Seeley Lake Sewer District will receive $38,362 to complete a wastewater system preliminary engineering report. The Town of Virginia City will receive $40,000 to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report. The City of Wolf Point will receive $40,000 to complete a stormwater system preliminary engineering report. In 2021, the City of Thompson Falls received $15,000 in grant funding from the Treasure State Endowment Program, now called MCEP, for a preliminary engineering report that eventually led to the city receiving $750,000 of MCEP grant funding to help improve and upgrade the community’s aging sewer system to meet modern environmental and public health standards.  “The City of Thompson Falls is excited to announce a major milestone in the completion of its sewer project, made possible by a generous grant from the Montana Coal Endowment Program. This grant has played a crucial role in reducing the financial burden on the city's sewer system improvements, providing significant benefits to both the community and its residents,” said Chelsea Peterson, Thompson Falls City Clerk and Treasurer. Eligible applicants for MCEP planning grants include incorporated cities or towns, counties, consolidated governments, tribal governments and county or multi-county water, sewer or solid waste districts. The funding for the program comes from revenues earned on interest from Coal Severance Taxes. For more information about MCEP planning grants, visit comdev.mt.gov .

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING December 27, 2024 9:00 A.M.                                                                                                                   ~ AGENDA ~     1.           Approval of December 2024 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 Anneliese Ripley Diane Armstrong

Submitted by: Mel Rice, Public Relations   On the evening of December 19, the Beaverhead County Search and Rescue held its annual appreciation dinner at the Beaverhead Golf Course.   A wonderful meal and refreshments were had by all.   This evening is to thank all of our spouses and family members for putting up with the late-night and weekend call outs and other interruptions in family routines.  Sometimes they can be very trying, not only for family members but also for S&R members as well.  During the evening several individuals were acknowledged for their outstanding contributions during the year.  Since there haven’t been any awards presented since 2021 because of covid, there was some catching up to do.  Commander Kolby Malesich made several presentations on the evening.  The first one was a plaque to Parke Scott for his dedication and longevity to the unit.  As previously noted, Parke retired from the BVHD S&R in October of this year.  Next, awards were presented to three individuals representing “Rookie of the Year”; Steve Mock for 2022, Adam Norlander for 2023, and Jaime Trivette for 2024.  After these awards, Kolby presented Steve Mock with the 2024 “Member of the Year” award.  Steve with all his expertise has been very instrumental in developing a good rope team for working on moderate to steep inclines.  He has put on several trainings during the last two years.  Steve has also been very reliable when it comes to showing up and working callouts on searches and rescues.  Congratulations to each of the award recipients.  Keep up the great work.  Commander Malesich then thanked the entire Unit for their dedication to serving the people of Beaverhead County and all those who come here to recreate in our great outdoors.  Your Beaverhead Search and Rescue would also like to wish everyone a “Very Merry Christmas” and a Joyous Holiday Season.  Thank you for all your support over the years. The 4 received awards. Left to Right- Parke Scott, Steve Mock, Adam Norlander, Jaime Trivette.  SAR members that attended the dinner.

Dillon, Montana –December 20, 2024– Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is proud to  announce that it has received recertification from the American Diabetes Association  (ADA) through its Education Recognition Program (ERP). This esteemed recognition  confirms the organization’s commitment to providing high-quality education and care for  patients living with diabetes.  The ADA's Education Recognition Program helps ensure that patients receive a consistent  level of education and care, which is crucial for managing diabetes effectively. The ADA’s  ERP certificate assures that educational services meet the National Standards for Diabetes  Self-Management Education and Support Services (DSMES). The ADA-ERP recognition  lasts for four years.  Benefits for Patients:  Access to Skilled Care: The recognition from the ADA ensures that patients have access  to qualified healthcare professionals who are well-versed in the latest diabetes  management strategies. This expert guidance is vital for preventing complications and  improving overall health outcomes.  Comprehensive Diabetes Management: Patients at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare can  expect a comprehensive diabetes management program that focuses on the critical  aspects of living with diabetes, including monitoring blood sugar levels, education, lifestyle  changes, and medication management.  Enhanced Quality of Life: By equipping patients with the tools and education necessary  to manage their diabetes, Barrett Hospital & HealthCare plays an essential role in  improving patients' quality of life, enabling them to lead healthier, more active lives.  "We are incredibly honored to receive this recertification from the American Diabetes  Association," said Taylor Rose, Chief Executive Officer of Barrett Hospital & HealthCare.  "This recognition underscores our ongoing dedication to providing high-quality, patient- centered care. We believe that education is a powerful tool in managing diabetes, and we  are committed to empowering our patients with the knowledge and resources they need."  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC’s) National Diabetes  Fact Sheet, there are over 38 million people, or 11.6%, of the U.S. population who have  diabetes. While an estimated 29.7 million have been diagnosed, unfortunately 8.7 million  people are not aware they have this disease. Each day, nearly 3,300 Americans are  diagnosed with diabetes. Many will first learn they have diabetes when they are treated  for one of its life-threatening complications—heart disease, stroke, kidney disease,  blindness, nerve disease, or amputation. Diabetes is the eighth leading cause of death in  the U.S.—in 2021, it contributed to 399,401 deaths. The ADA’s Economic Costs of Diabetes  in the U.S. in 2022 report confirms diabetes continues to be one of the nation’s most  expensive chronic health care conditions with an estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes of  $412.9 billion.  “Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support Services are an essential part of  managing diabetes and are as effective as diabetes medication. Therefore, all people with  diabetes benefit from it,” said Barbara Eichorst, MS, RD, CDCES, the ADA’s vice president  of health programs.   About Barrett Hospital & HealthCare:   Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is a nationally recognized healthcare institution in Dillon,   Montana, committed to providing exceptional patient-centered care across various   medical specialties. With a state-of-the-art facility, along with primary care and specialty   care clinics, and a dedicated team of medical professionals, Barrett Hospital & HealthCare   delivers comprehensive healthcare services to the local community. More information can   be found at www.barretthospital.org .   About the American Diabetes Association:  Nearly half of American adults have diabetes or prediabetes; more than 30 million adults  and children have diabetes; and every 21 seconds, another individual is diagnosed with  diabetes in the U.S. Founded in 1940, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) is the  nation’s leading voluntary health organization whose mission is to prevent and cure  diabetes, and to improve the lives of all people affected by diabetes. The ADA drives  discovery by funding research to treat, manage and prevent all types of diabetes, as well  as to search for cures; raises voice to the urgency of the diabetes epidemic; and works to  safeguard policies and programs that protect people with diabetes. In addition, the ADA  supports people living with diabetes, those at risk of developing diabetes, and the health  care professionals who serve them through information and programs that can improve  health outcomes and quality of life. To learn more or to get involved, visit us at  https://diabetes.org/ .

Emmett Jeschke, a senior at the University of Montana Western, has been selected to serve as the Montana Associated Students (MAS) Student Lobbyist during the upcoming legislative session. Representing students across the Montana University System, Jeschke will advocate for higher education priorities while building relationships with state lawmakers. Originally from Kalispell, Montana, Jeschke transferred to UMW from Flathead Valley Community College (FVCC) after hearing about the university’s affordability and block schedule. Majoring in Business Administration with a minor in Constitutional Studies, he has explored subjects such as Political Science, American Government, and Economics. His academic achievements include independent research comparing the German and American constitutions and coursework in comparative legal studies. Jeschke credits Lexi Loucks, ASUMW President, and Elizabeth Kamminga and Logan Colberg, ASUM President and Vice President, for encouraging him to apply for the position. “Making the decision to apply was a great leap outside of my comfort zone,” Jeschke said. “I’m excited to meet with the state legislature and develop connections. Since I was young, I’ve always had the desire to make positive change in the world, and this is a great opportunity. I’m really looking forward to this learning experience.” In his role, Jeschke will focus on sharing legislation relevant to higher education with MAS. He will work closely with state representatives in both the House and Senate, coordinate with the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education (OCHE), and connect with student governments across the state. This immersive experience will also fulfill an internship requirement for Jeschke as part of his UMW studies. Jeschke’s responsibilities will take him to Helena, where he will reside with two other student lobbyists—one from the University of Montana and one from Montana State University—starting on December 30. At Montana Western, Jeschke has been an active leader. He is a member of UMW’s TRIO program, serves as an ASUMW Student Senator, regularly attends Chancellor’s Cabinet, Academic Leadership, and Faculty Senate meetings to support UMW students, and sits on the UMW International and Budget Committees. In addition to his leadership roles, Jeschke works in the Financial Aid Office through the Work-Study program, where he assists students with FAFSA and other financial aid questions. “We couldn’t be prouder of Emmett’s accomplishment,” said Rebecca Manna, Director of TRIO Student Support Services at Montana Western. “He is the kind of student who genuinely cares about the well-being of others. He shows up, rolls up his sleeves, gets involved, and does the work. Emmett’s selection as the MAS Student Lobbyist demonstrates his commitment to empowering students to learn, lead, and serve. It also shows us what’s possible when we believe in ourselves, each other, and the power of education.” After graduating this spring, Jeschke plans to apply for a three-year accelerated graduate program at the University of Montana, where he hopes to earn both an MBA and a Juris Doctorate (JD). To prepare, he will be taking the LSAT and graduate school entrance exams. The University of Montana Western congratulates Jeschke on his appointment and is grateful for his leadership on campus. His work as the MAS student lobbyist will serve not only as a capstone to his time at Montana Western but as a launchpad for his aspirations to drive positive change in the world. For more information about Experience One and the University of Montana Western, or to schedule a tour, visit  www.umwestern.edu  or call 877-683-7331.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. –  The Associated Press (AP) NAIA All-American teams were released on Friday morning, with three Bulldogs earning nods on this year's list. The AP All-American teams are selected by a panel of sports writers and sports information directors. UMW offensive lineman  Marcus Lombard  earned a selection on the AP NAIA First Team All-American. Lombard, a 6-1, 300lb redshirt senior offensive lineman from Laie, Hawaii, earned his first AP All-American nod after previously being selected to the AFCA NAIA First Team All-American team. He was also named Frontier first team all-conference offensive line this season. This season, the Bulldog offense broke the total offense in a season record set in 2021 at 5,399 yards. They totaled 5,773 yards of offense this season and broke the record for passing yards in a season with a previous record set in 1994 at 3,535. They also broke the total points scored record that was set in 2021. They totaled 3,735 passing yards and totaled 498 points this season. Bulldog quarterback Michael Palandri earned AP Second Team All-American honors. Palandri, a 6-1, 215lb quarterback from Maple Valley, Wash., earned his spot on the AP All-American list after another impressive season that saw him break three passing records and leading the Bulldog offense to break another three records. He was also selected Frontier first team all-conference previously this season. Palandri completed 68.26% of his passes this season, surpassing the previous record of 64.9% set by Jason Truman in 1995. He also broke Truman's single-season passing yards record from 1994, eclipsing the former mark of 3,503 yards with an impressive 3,670-yard total. Additionally, Palandri amassed 3,972 total offensive yards and threw 34 touchdown passes, shattering Truman's 1994 records of 3,758 total yards and 33 passing touchdowns. UMW wide receiver  Eli Nourse  also earned a spot as an AP Second Team All-American. Nourse, a 5-10, 170lb sophomore from Dillon, Mont. earned his second AP All-American nod in his career. In addition, he was recently named AFCA All-America second-after he led the Bulldogs this season with 1205 receiving yards and averaged 100.42 yards per game. He broke his own single season record for receiving yards of 1,186 in the final game of the season, totaling 1,205 yards this season. Nourse finished eighth in the country in yards per game and sixth in total touchdowns with 12 this season. To view the full release and complete list of recipients,  click here.