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PUBLIC NOTICE     The Beaverhead County Courthouse, The Treasure office, along with the Extension and Weed offices will be experiencing power outages most of the morning and intermittently throughout the day on January 7, 2026 due to scheduled electrical work.  During this time, phone services, internet access and electrical power at these buildings may be unavailable. We apologies for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding.

Polaris, Mont. — Skiers gathered Wednesday night at Maverick Mountain for the resort’s annual New Year’s Eve Torch Light Parade, a long-standing tradition that draws locals and visitors alike to help ring in the new year. Participants began loading the chairlift at approximately 5:30 p.m., making their way to the top of the mountain as fireworks were launched from various locations across the resort. Once darkness fell, skiers started their descent, lighting up the slopes with flashlights while fireworks continued to illuminate the night sky. The Torch Light Parade is held every New Year’s Eve at Maverick Mountain and has become a signature winter event for the local skiing community. Participants said this year’s parade saw one of the largest turnouts in recent memory, with a strong crowd both on the slopes and watching from below. The event provided a festive end to the year and showcased the continued popularity of the tradition as the community welcomed the arrival of the new year.

In November of 2019, Southwestern Montana News was launched with a simple mission: to provide timely, accurate reporting on stories impacting Dillon and the surrounding communities—stories that were often going unreported or delayed for days or even weeks. The decision to leave a full-time job and start an independent online news outlet was not an easy one, but it was driven by a growing need for faster access to local information. From breaking news and public safety incidents to sports and community events, the goal was to keep residents informed in real time. In the early years, Southwestern Montana News expanded beyond written reporting by incorporating video coverage and livestreaming of sports and community events, allowing people to stay connected even when they couldn’t attend in person. As the outlet grew, so did its understanding of what readers wanted most. Now entering its sixth year, Southwestern Montana News has undergone significant changes. Livestreaming was phased out as audience preferences shifted, and the decision was made to close the downtown office and operate fully mobile. These changes allowed the outlet to respond more quickly to breaking news and better serve the community. Looking back, 2025 marked the most successful year to date . During the past year, Southwestern Montana News reached more than 250,000 readers  on its website. In addition, videos shared on Facebook were viewed over 3 million times , reflecting strong engagement from the community across multiple platforms. As the outlet looks ahead to 2026, Southwestern Montana News remains committed to independent journalism and community-focused reporting. Local businesses also continue to play a vital role in supporting the outlet, with advertising opportunities starting at $35 per month —helping sustain locally owned media in Beaverhead County. Top 10 Most-Read Southwestern Montana News Stories of 2025 Teen dies from self-inflicted gunshot wound near Trapper Creek Man found dead after vehicle discovered in water near Wisdom Child’s death in Lima deemed homicide; one arrested UM Western student charged in fatal crash that killed 7-year-old Dillon boy Minor fatally injured in vehicle vs. bicycle collision in Dillon Tragic accident at Maverick Mountain; skier dies after collision with tree First responders on scene of semi-truck accident on MT-41 near Twin Bridges Fatal motorcycle crash on I-90 west near mile marker 233 Chase on I-15 near Lima ends with disabling crash, arrest of female driver Fatal single-vehicle crash on I-15 near mile marker 70 As Southwestern Montana News moves into the new year, the focus remains unchanged: serve the community, report the facts, and ensure local stories are told—accurately and on time .

Dillon, MT – The University of Montana Western’s HIP Club (Humans in Performance), advised by Dr. Megan Chilson and Mr. Mikel Griffiths, donated 80 “Meals in a Bag” to the Women’s Resource Center to support survivors of domestic and sexual violence and their families during the holiday season. Each meal kit includes an average of seven shelf-stable ingredients and a recipe, providing everything needed to prepare a complete meal. The donations will directly benefit individuals and families living in shelter or transitioning to independent housing, helping to address food insecurity in the community. “This project gave HIP Club students an opportunity to translate learning into action,” said Dr. Chilson, faculty advisor for the HIP Club. “Creating the ‘Meals in a Bag’ helped students understand how small, intentional efforts can make a meaningful difference for families in our community.” “Partnerships like this allow us to focus on what matters most - supporting survivors and helping families regain stability,” said Rebecca Knotts, Executive Director of the Women’s Resource Center. “The care and thoughtfulness behind these meals make a real difference in people’s lives.” The WRC provides free, confidential services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Beaverhead and Madison counties. Partnerships with local organizations play a vital role in meeting immediate needs while supporting long-term healing and independence. For more information, visit www.wrcmt.org The WRC extends its sincere thanks to Dr. Chilson, Mr. Griffiths and the HIP Club for their meaningful contribution and commitment to supporting survivors in the community.

On Christmas Day, Dec. 25, 2025, the Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Interdiction Team was on patrol in the area of the I-15 Business Loop when deputies observed a vehicle being operated by an individual with outstanding warrants. Deputies initiated a traffic stop and, during the investigation, located fentanyl powder. Due to its extreme potency and danger, fentanyl has recently been classified as a weapon of mass destruction. Deputies took proactive measures to ensure their safety and the safety of the public. The male driver was arrested on multiple charges. Following the arrest, deputies executed a search warrant at a nearby hotel room connected to the investigation. During the search, deputies located additional dangerous controlled substances, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, hallucinogenic mushrooms, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. A female found in the hotel room was arrested on charges related to possession of dangerous drugs. Authorities emphasize that fentanyl is incredibly potent, with even a few milligrams capable of being lethal. Accidental exposure to fentanyl powder poses a serious risk to anyone in close proximity. The Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office stated it remains committed to aggressively pursuing dangerous drugs and those who traffic them, stressing that efforts will continue to protect the people of Montana and that offenders will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers December 31, 2025 10:00 A.M. SPECIAL MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA     PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     A.         FINANCE COMMITTEE  – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Anneliese Ripley, Diane Armstrong                         a.         Approve December 29, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes                         b.          Approve Line Item Budget Report                                     i.          Approve Fund Summary for Claims for December 2025                                     ii.         Approve Claims by Vendor Report for December 2025                                     iii.        Approve Mayor’s Report to the Finance Committee for December                                                             2025                                     iv.        Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for December 2025                                           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.

Sunday, Dec. 28, first responders were called to a residence off Highway 278 for a vehicle fire. According to officials, the vehicle owner had started their truck to warm it up in the cold weather and left it running while attending to other tasks. A short time later, flames were observed coming from the vehicle. Thanks to the quick actions of the vehicle owner and a rapid response from the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department, the fire was quickly contained and extinguished. Damage was limited to the vehicle, and no injuries were reported. Firefighters were unable to determine the exact cause of the fire, but believe it may have been the result of a faulty fuel connection.

The University of Montana Western is proud to announce the 56th Annual Montana Western Rodeo Banquet, a highly anticipated fundraising event taking place Friday, March 27, 2026, in the Keltz Arena on the UMW campus. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. with no-host cocktails to kick off an evening of celebration, community, and support for the Montana Western Rodeo Team. The night will feature a prime rib dinner, silent and live auctions, and the opportunity to meet and celebrate the Montana Western Rodeo Team. The evening’s guest speaker will be J.R. Vezain, a six-time National Finals Rodeo (NFR) bareback rider from Cowley, Wyoming. Vezain competed at the highest level of professional rodeo before a 2018 injury ended his riding career. Since then, he has become a motivational speaker, rancher, and advocate for perseverance, sharing his inspiring story of resilience, grit, and life beyond the arena. We are also excited to share a change to the dining setup.  “To show our gratitude for our guests, we’ve made a small change this year to make the evening more comfortable,” said Jolene Robbins, UMW Foundation Special Events Coordinator. “The dinner line will be outside under tents to create more space inside the Keltz.” Proceeds from the event directly support the Montana Western Rodeo Team through scholarships, travel expenses, and program needs, helping student-athletes continue a long tradition of excellence in collegiate rodeo. “This banquet is one of our most important events each year,” said Head Coach JT Robbins. “It brings our community together to support our student-athletes and celebrate the sport of rodeo, and the encouragement, sponsorships, mentorship, and cheering — sometimes from hundreds of miles away — truly mean more than you know.” Ticket Information: Single tickets:  $75 Reserved table of eight (Rows 1–4):  $600 Reserved table of eight (Rows 5–8):  $500 Tickets can be purchased through the Montana Western Foundation Office by calling Kelly Allen at 406-683-7306 starting January 5, 2026. For more information or to donate items for the live or silent auctions, please contact Jolene Robbins   at 406-683-7303 or 406-660-1127.

THREE FORKS – Game wardens with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks are seeking information on a pictograph panel that was vandalized at Missouri Headwaters State Park. The graffiti was discovered this month at a popular destination for park visitors that contains a visible pictograph consisting of a human figure in solid red. An initial assessment of the vandalism indicates a person likely used a paintbrush to paint over a portion of the existing pictograph and made about 10 markings in other areas of the limestone panel. This may have also damaged other pictographs at the site that are not readily visible. This culturally sensitive site and the surrounding area have ties to many different groups of indigenous peoples dating back thousands of years. The area includes the confluence of the Jefferson, Madison and Gallatin rivers to form the Missouri River, and it hosted a camp for the Lewis and Clark Expedition in 1805. Removing graffiti without damaging existing cultural resources can be extremely difficult and expensive. “We’re asking for the public’s help in protecting this site and the other invaluable resources at our state parks,” said Linnaea Schroeer, FWP’s parks and outdoor recreation program manager in Region 3. “Keeping these places in good shape for future generations depends on everyone.” Anyone with possible information about this incident is encouraged to visit tipmont.mt.gov to provide details or to contact a game warden. You may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

FARGO, N.D. - The Victory Sports Network (VSN) has released its NAIA Football All-American Teams, VSN founder Jason Dannelly announced Monday . Eli Nourse (first team), Tyler Walker (second team), Michael Palandri (honorable mention), and Jace Fitzgerald (honorable mention) all received nods for Western. The VSN NAIA Football team is compiled by Dannelly of the Victory Sports Network. Nominations are automatically taken from First Team selections from the All-Conference teams in the NAIA. Input on the selections comes from coaches, SIDs and media members around the NAIA. The final selections are made by Dannelly. VSN NAIA All-American First Team - Wide Receiver Eli Nourse - Dillon, Mont. / JR Nourse totaled 78 receptions for 1,192 yards (119.2 yards per game) in his junior campaign, setting school records in career receptions (256) and career receiving yards (3,583) in the process. He earned 10 receiving touchdowns. His longest catch was 65 yards and he averaged 15.3 yards per reception. Nourse finished second in both the conference and the nation in yards per game. He also ranked fifth in the Frontier and 14th nationally in receiving touchdowns. VSN NAIA All-American Second Team - Defensive Line Tyler Walker - Dillon, Mont. / R-SR. Walker was the driving force of the Bulldog defensive efforts in 2025.He set school records in single game sacks (4.5) and single-season tackles-for-loss (21.5) while helping the Bulldogs' defense set the record for single-game sacks as a team (eight). Additionally, Walker led the team in total tackles (70), solo tackles (33), TFLs (21.5), and sacks (8.5). He also forced one fumble and tallied two fumble recoveries, three pass breakups, and one QB hurry. VSN NAIA All-American Honorable Mention - Quarterback Michael Palandri - Maple Valley, Wash. / R-SR Palandri leaves Western as the record holder in single game touchdown passes (eight), single-season and career completion percentage (68.3 and 66.0, respectively), single-season passing yards (3,670), single-season total offensive yards (3,972), and single-season touchdown passes (34) while helping set a single-game passing yards (497) record for the Bulldogs. He earned Frontier Conference West Division Player of the Year and First Team-All Conference selections. He threw over 3,000 yards for the second consecutive season and compiled 42 total touchdowns. VSN NAIA All-American Honorable Mention - Linebacker Jace Fitzgerald - Dillon, Mont. / R-SR Wearing the no. 18 Legacy jersey for UMW, Fitzgerald left his mark in 2025. He earned Frontier Conference First Team All-Conference Honors. He racked up 66 total tackles including 26 solos. He also posted 4.0 tackles-for-loss totaling 28 yards and 1.5 sacks for 22 yards. Fitzgerald earned one interception, forced and recovered a fumble, and had two pass breakups ups. He had six outings with multiple solo tackles and recorded a career-high 16 tackles at College of Idaho (10/18).

The University of Montana Western is pleased to announce that it has appointed Dr. Estee Aiken as Interim Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs effective starting December 27, 2025, and would also like to express its sincere gratitude to Dr. Brian Elliott who has served as Interim Provost for the past seven months. “I want to extend my sincere appreciation to Dr. Elliott for his dedication and steady leadership while serving in this role. His service has been invaluable to our campus community,” said Montana Western Chancellor, Michael Reid.  Dr. Elliott earned his B.S. in Computer Science and English from Muskingum University and his M.A. and Ph.D. in English from Ohio University. His research and teaching interests include early American literature, British and Transatlantic Romanticism, satire, and mythology and folklore, and his current research explores the role of lying and deception in early American novels. At Montana Western, he teaches courses in graphic novels, American literature, fantasy and science fiction, and composition. “Thank you to Chancellor Reid and the entire UMW community for the opportunity to serve our campus over the last several months. I hope that some of what I’ve been able to accomplish as Interim Provost has a lasting impact on the university for our faculty, staff, and students, now and in the future. In choosing to step back into my faculty role at this point, I can continue much of that work while also leaving the Provost position in Dr. Aiken’s excellent care.”“ I am also grateful to Dr. Aiken for her willingness to step into this role. She will serve as Interim Provost until our next permanent Provost is identified,” said Reid.   Dr. Aiken earned a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Macalester College, in St. Paul, Minnesota, followed by a Master of Arts in Teaching Elementary School from Colorado College. She earned her Doctor of Education in Education Studies from the University of Northern Colorado.  Dr. Aiken currently serves as Montana Western’s Dean of Strategic Initiatives overseeing the School of Outreach, the Office of Sponsored Programs, and university accreditation efforts. Before her role as Dean, she served as the Division Chair of Education at Montana Western, where she was a tenured professor.  She has also been actively involved at the state level in roles including Montana Council of Deans of Education, Montana University System Teacher Scholar 2022-23, past President of the Montana Association of Colleges for Teacher Education, and President of the Montana Association of Gifted and Talented Education. In her current role, Dr. Aiken is involved in many state-wide initiatives to address dual-enrollment efforts, workforce preparation, undergraduate research, policy development, and artificial intelligence. She is a founding and current board member of the Odyssey Early Learning Center. Additionally, Dr. Aiken has a wide variety of experience in grants authorship and project management and has published several peer reviewed publications. “I am very excited for the opportunity to serve as UMW’s Interim Provost. This is an important time for Western, as we finalize our next strategic plan and look to what the future may hold, and I’m honored to help to guide that work,” said Aiken. The University of Montana Western will undertake the permanent Provost search process once its next Chancellor is in place. The national search to identify UMW’s next Chancellor, a key leader in advancing the university’s distinctive educational mission and supporting students, faculty, staff, and the surrounding community has officially been launched. To learn more about the search—including the timeline, committee members, and the executive search firm assisting with the effort—please visit: https://www.umwestern.edu/chancellor-search/ .

DILLON, Mont. — High winds ripped across much of the state of Montana on Wednesday, causing damage and hazardous conditions in multiple areas. In Dillon, powerful gusts uprooted trees and toppled power poles, keeping local first responders busy with numerous calls throughout the morning. While crews were responding to incidents in town, Lima Fire and Ambulance were called to the Dell area after a southbound semi on Interstate 15 encountered high winds and overturned onto its side. Fortunately, the driver sustained only minor injuries, was treated at the scene, and was released.

DILLON, Mont. — Beaverhead Search and Rescue held its annual member appreciation dinner on Friday, Dec. 12, recognizing the dedication and service of its volunteers during the past year. The event was hosted at the Beaverhead Golf Course, with food and service coordinated by the golf course team. Along with celebrating the holiday season, the evening provided an opportunity to recognize several members for their outstanding contributions. Josh Yeadon was named Rookie of the Year . In his first year with the organization, Yeadon immersed himself in training, participated in the majority of callouts, and contributed behind the scenes, including helping with the annual Fish Derby fundraiser. The Commander’s Award , given to the members most active in callouts, was presented to Brad Wagner  and Jack Bazemore . Wagner, a longtime member, responded to every callout this year and frequently filled critical roles in incident command and communications support. Bazemore also responded to every callout and was often the first member on scene, consistently ready to assist whenever duty called. The Member of the Year  award was presented to Adam Norlander , recognizing his broad contributions to the organization. Norlander served as training officer, participated in numerous callouts and trainings, assisted with fundraising events such as the Fish Derby, and spearheaded the organization’s first annual youth First Aid and CPR event in September. The organization also recognized Mel Rice , who retired this spring after nearly 40 years of service with Beaverhead Search and Rescue. Rice’s long-standing dedication and contributions to the mission were honored, and members noted he will be greatly missed. In addition, Beaverhead Search and Rescue recognized the spouses and significant others of its members, acknowledging their ongoing support, which plays a vital role in the success of the organization. Commander Kolby Malesich also extended thanks to the Beaverhead County community for its continued support, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve alongside so many dedicated individuals. Beaverhead Search and Rescue wished the community a safe and blessed holiday season. — Submitted by Kolby Malesich, Commander

DILLON, Mont. — Strong wind gusts swept through Dillon Wednesday morning, knocking down trees and power lines across the community. Wind gusts were reported in the high 50-mph range, according to weather apps, prompting multiple calls for service to local first responders. Crews responded to several reports of downed power lines and fallen trees throughout town. A power pole fell in the parking lot of the Big Town Pump, causing power outages in the surrounding area. Trees were also reported down across Pioneer Drive, creating roadway hazards. At the Evergreen Center, a large pine tree fell and scraped the side of the building, narrowly missing it causing slight damage. First responders were also called to Lakner Lane for what was initially reported as a power line down across the roadway; however, it was later determined to be a cable line. In addition, first responders in Lima and Dell are responding to a rolled semi truck. More information on that incident will be released as it becomes available. Residents are urged to use caution, avoid downed lines, and report hazards to authorities.