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University of Montana Western alumnus Collin Stetzner will present for the Young Alums Program, hosted by the Department of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences, on Tuesday, April 21, at 3:30 p.m. in Main Hall Room 318. The mission of the Young Alums Program is to provide current students with the opportunity to engage with Montana Western graduates who earned degrees from the Division of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. Collin Stetzner is a recent University of Montana Western alumnus who will be speaking about his experiences in law school as part of the Young Alums Program sponsored by the Division of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. While at Montana Western, Collin earned a Bachelor of Arts in Modern History with a minor in Constitutional Studies. His senior thesis focused on Freedom Suits in Antebellum Missouri. After graduation, Collin attended law school at the University of Montana Alexander Blewett III School of Law. During his time in law school, Collin was a member of the Montana Law Review, American Constitution Society, and the National Lawyers Guild. Since graduating from law school, Collin has worked as a public defender in Montana. The campus community is invited to attend and celebrate this opportunity to connect with a UMW alumnus. For more information, please contact Professor Bethany Blankenship at bethany.blankenship@umwestern.edu.

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that 10 local safety agencies will share $500,000 of grant funding to support tourism-related emergency service projects in rural areas. The funding is through Commerce’s Montana Emergency Tourism Assistance Grant Program. “Emergency services are important to Montana communities, especially in our rural areas. At Commerce, we’re proud to help support those who are there to help people who may be in dangerous situations,” said Commerce Director Marta Bertoglio. The METAP Program is designed to support services provided by public or private safety agencies including law enforcement, firefighting and ambulance or medical services. The following will receive METAP grant funding: Custer County Fire will receive $50,000 to purchase a self-contained breathing apparatus cascade system. Hebgen Basin Fire District will receive $50,000 to purchase an emergency medical service vehicle. The Libby Police Department will receive $50,000 to purchase a new patrol vehicle. Miles City Fire and Rescue will receive $50,000 to purchase a fire engine. Missoula Rural Fire District will receive $50,000 to purchase two emergency watercrafts. Ryegate Volunteer Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase fire turnout gear. The City of Shelby/Shelby Fire Department will receive $50,000 for a Shelby Fire Department radio upgrade. Sun Prairie Rural Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase extrication tools. Three Mile Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase a fire vehicle. Virginia City Volunteer Fire Department will receive $50,000 to purchase self-contained breathing apparatus replacements. Eligible applicants for METAP funding include rural incorporated cities or towns, counties, consolidated governments, tribal governments and any entity that provides emergency services or response units to a rural area. METAP is a state-funded opportunity authorized by the 2023 Montana Legislature’s enactment of Senate Bill 540.

DILLON, Mont. — The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and its partner Jeffery Contracting, LLC, will begin work in mid-April on Montana Highway 91 (MT 91) south of Dillon, weather and other factors permitting. The project is located near the intersection with Carrigan Lane. “Overall, this is a relatively short one-season project that will enhance safety by realigning the curve, widening shoulders, flattening slopes, and upgrading signage, markings, and rumble strips,” says Rick Sandoval, Engineering Project Manager for MDT. Traffic flow will be maintained during construction, but drivers may experience reduced speeds when traveling through the work zone. Please follow all posted signage and watch for workers. To receive project updates via text, text “DILLON” to 844-764-2126.* The public is encouraged to contact Laura Langdon at 406-447-3354 with questions or comments about the project. For more information about active MDT projects around the state, please visit our website and MDT’s five-year Tentative Construction Plan. MDT is a workforce of over 2,000 people across Montana determined to do all we can so that you arrive at your destination safely. Our mission is to build, operate, and maintain a safe and resilient transportation system. For more information, visit mdt.mt.gov. *Note: Message and data rates may apply. Four messages/month. Reply STOP to opt-out anytime. Reply HELP for help. Texting alerts are not managed by MDT and may have different privacy and security policies. Terms and Privacy Policy can be found at simpletexting.com/terms.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS April 9th, 2026 City Council Chambers 7:00 P.M. AGENDA     1.         Call Meeting to Order 2.         Approval of Minutes             a.         Transcript of March 31 st , 2026 Public Hearing             b.         Regular Meeting Minutes from March 31 st , 2026 3.         Discuss/Respond to Letter from Gail Kuntz 4.         Decision and Action on Whittney Petersen Fence Appeal 5.         Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Board of Adjustments. 6.         Adjourn       Members: Tim Stoker, Don Deem, Mary Jo O’ Rourke, Mike Watson, Stephen Sievert, Justin Rooley

The Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers put together a dominant performance Tuesday in Livingston, defeating the Park High Rangers 15-4 behind timely hitting and an aggressive approach on the base paths. Beaverhead wasted little time getting started, plating five runs in the top of the first inning. Trenton Moreni singled up the middle to spark the rally, while Kanin Engelhardt, Levi Stonebraker, and Garrett Tackett each drew walks with the bases loaded. Logan Fox added an RBI on a groundout as the Beavers quickly took control. The Beavers extended their lead in the third inning when Cohen Hartman delivered a two-run double and Jase Alvarez added an RBI groundout to push the advantage further. Fox earned the win on the mound, allowing just one hit and one unearned run over three innings while striking out five and walking two. Sawyer Tackett came on in relief to help secure the victory. Park’s Weston Vincent took the loss, surrendering eight runs on four hits over 2⅔ innings. At the plate, Beaverhead tallied 10 hits and showed patience throughout, drawing eight walks. Engelhardt and Hartman each collected two hits, while Moreni, Bartlome, Hartman, Fox, Stonebraker, and Tristan Alvarez all drove in runs. The Beavers were just as dangerous on the bases, racking up nine stolen bases. Hartman and Tackett each swiped multiple bags, helping keep constant pressure on the Rangers’ defense. For Park, Lliam Edwards and Ben Cipriani each recorded a hit, while Vincent led the Rangers with two RBIs. Park also showed patience at the plate with six walks, led by Brentin Allgood and Beckham Leninger with two each. Beaverhead will look to carry the momentum into Friday’s matchup on the road against Sentinel.

The Dillon Public Library has released its upcoming schedule of events for April, featuring a mix of educational classes, family-focused programs, and community gatherings. Kicking off the month, the library will host a free computer class on file management on April 10 at 11:30 a.m. The class will be led by Tara Stevens, owner of Computer Rescue Service, and is designed to help participants better organize and manage files for both home and business use. On April 14 at 6 p.m., the library continues its child abuse and neglect awareness series with a presentation by Maria Emmer-Aanes titled “Helping Kids Thrive: The Power of Protective Factors.” The program will focus on building resilience in children and strengthening families through supportive community practices. Later in the month, Melissa Winger will lead a two-part parenting course on April 21 and April 28 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. The sessions will explore how emotional patterns and coping skills are passed through families, helping parents build awareness and develop healthier responses to stress while supporting their children’s emotional growth. The library will also host its annual Spring Fling and Bling event on April 25 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the National Guard Armory in Dillon. The event will feature vendors offering arts, crafts, baked goods, and yard sale items. Attendees can enjoy a large book sale, purchase lunch, and enter to win door prizes, with every child guaranteed a prize. Those interested in reserving a vendor table can contact the library at 683-4544. Looking ahead to May, plans are underway for the expanded International Festival on May 1, formerly known as the Japanese Festival. Hosted in partnership with University of Montana Western students, the Dillon Public Library, and local businesses, the event will include cultural displays, crafts, and an international food luncheon. Additional details are expected to be released soon. All events are open to the public, with many offered free of charge, continuing the library’s mission to provide educational and community-focused opportunities for all ages.

Beaverhead Fire Dist. #2 405N. Idaho St Dillon, MT SPECIAL MEETING NOTICE FRIDAY APRIL 10, 2026 8:00 AM   AGENDA:   I.                   Call to Order II.                Chief Hiring Committee Report a.       Public Comment III.              Discuss/Recommend Candidates & Hiring New Chief b.       Public Comment IV.             Public Comment on Subjects Under the Jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 That is Not on the Agenda. V.                Adjournment

The Dillon Public Library is inviting the public to attend an upcoming presentation as part of its 2026 child abuse and neglect awareness series. The program, titled “Strengthening Families, Safeguarding Futures: A Community-Based Approach to Preventing Child Abuse and Neglect,” will take place April 14 at 6 p.m. at the library. Guest speaker Maria Emmer-Aanes will present “Helping Kids Thrive: The Power of Protective Factors,” focusing on the supports that help children and families build resilience and create stronger, healthier communities. The presentation will include a community discussion centered on practical ways to strengthen families and improve outcomes for youth. The series is made possible through a grant from the Montana Children’s Trust Fund, which supports educational efforts aimed at raising awareness and preventing child abuse and neglect. The event is free and open to the public. Light snacks will be provided, and activities will be available for children attending with parents or guardians.

The University of Montana Western’s annual Colt Challenge and Sale, held March 27–28, 2026, at the Montana Center for Horsemanship, generated $291,900 for the UMW Natural Horsemanship Program. The Natural Horsemanship Program, which educates students to work with horses as part of a broad range of equine and academic studies, is a joint program between the University of Montana Western and the Montana Center for Horsemanship. Each year, as part of the Colt Sale course, UMW students train young horses to be sold at a live auction the following spring. All of the horses are donated by respected regional ranches and feature strong bloodlines. The event attracts buyers from across the country, with proceeds supporting scholarships, facility improvements, and other program needs. The sale again included the Alumni Horse Sale, where past Colt Sale students showcased their horsemanship skills and post-graduation success. Alumni participants included Jacob Christenson, whose two horses—ZIPPO LIL BUDDY and GEMS SECRET CODE—each sold for $20,000, and Nicole Forbes, whose horse JAYCEE DONE DUNNIT sold for $5,500. The two-day event began with the Colt Challenge on Friday, March 27. Students demonstrated their training through a variety of ranch tasks. Vivian Mayers earned first place riding SLD SKIPPA BET, donated by Roaring Springs Ranch. Mayers was awarded a $2,500 scholarship from CHS; a custom saddle from Stockman Bank and Frecker’s Saddlery; a saddle rack from Ken and Linda Farms; a buckle from Nancy Chesterfield of ASA Publications; a mohair cinch from AH Cinches; a wild rag from Cowgirl Dreamin’; a halter from Steele Halters; and 40 lbs. of HorsLic from New Generation Supplements. Top Five Colt Challenge Placings: 1st – Vivian Mayers and SLD SKIPPA BET, Roaring Springs Ranch 2nd – Brooklynn Voigt and HQH SNIP O FROST, Erb Ranch 3rd – Elise Brann and A LAST VIBRANT MOON, Nelson Quarter Horses 4th – Kat Hansen and WEAVER PERKS ECHO, Weaver Quarter Horses 5th – Isabelle Friesen and PEPTO DASH OF LEROY, Harrington and Hirschy Quarter Horses The colt sale, held the following day on March 28, generated a total of $291,900, with an average sale price of $10,722 per horse. Top Five Highest-Selling Colts: $21,000 – Lot 8, PEPTO DASH OF LEROY, ridden by Isabelle Friesen, donated by Harrington and Hirschy Quarter Horses $19,000 – Lot 9, DOCS GO N ROAN, ridden by Taylor Peck, donated by Holland Quarter Horses $17,000 – Lot 25, WEAVERS SMART GUY, ridden by Everett Richins, donated by Weaver Quarter Horses $14,000 – Lot 16, A LAST VIBRANT MOON, ridden by Elise Brann, donated by Nelson Quarter Horses $14,000 – Lot 15, MRI CATCH ME BLUE, ridden by Addison Gillentine, donated by Mahlstedt Ranch The University of Montana Western Natural Horsemanship Program would like to thank its generous donors for making this year’s event so successful: Erb Ranch, Jacob Christenson, Harrington and Hirschy Quarter Horses, Holland Quarter Horses, Hollenbeck Ranch, Mahlstedt Ranch, Nelson Quarter Horses, Roaring Springs Ranch, Tash Ranch, and Weaver Quarter Horses. Special thanks to Reminisce Angus, Weaver Quarter Horses, Bray Leather Studio, and Montana Mad Hatters for donating special auction items, and to Beaverhead Motors, Reminisce Angus, Engine 18, and Harrington Pepsi for providing lunch on the day of the sale. Thank you to our corporate sponsors—New Generation Supplements, Zinpro Performance Minerals, Rocky Mountain Supply, CHS Inc., and the Montana Center for Horsemanship—and to all of the businesses that donated prizes and purchased advertising space for making this event possible. For more information about Montana Western and the nation’s only Natural Horsemanship degree program, please visit  www.umwestern.edu  or call 1-877-683-7331. 2026 UMW Colt Challenge winner Vivian Mayers and colt SLD SKIPPA BET receive the winning check and other prizes. Corporate sponsors CHS, Rocky Mountain Supply, Zinpro Performance Minerals, and New Generation Supplements present the first-place prize to Vivian Mayers . High-selling colt PEPTO DASH OF LEROY and rider Isabelle Friesen are pictured with Harrington and Hirschy Quarter Horses and the buyers.

Beaverhead FFA members delivered a standout performance at the 96th Montana State FFA Convention held last week in Great Falls, competing alongside more than 2,000 students representing 101 chapters from across the state. The chapter earned multiple top honors, including a State Runner-up finish and Gold Award in the State Star Chapter competition, along with a 4th place finish in Overall Chapter Sweepstakes. Beaverhead was also recognized with the Montana Association of Agricultural Educators (MAAE) 2026 Outstanding Agricultural Education Program, an award voted on by agricultural educators statewide. Individually, several Beaverhead students claimed top placements and state titles. Taylor Yecny was named the State Winner in Veterinary Science, while Leneva Miller earned State Winner honors in Horse Evaluation. Miller also placed second overall in the FFA Chapter Scrapbook competition. The Veterinary Science team—Yecny, Savannah Nelson, Sam George, and Winona Wagoner—finished second overall. The Horse Evaluation team also placed second, with Nelson finishing third individually and Wagoner placing tenth. Savannah Nelson advanced to the finals in Prepared Public Speaking, finishing fourth overall. Additional team results included: 5th place Forestry 6th place Livestock Evaluation 7th place Ag Mechanics and Range Science 10th place Agronomy 12th place Meats Evaluation 18th place Farm Business Management A total of 10 Beaverhead FFA members earned their State FFA Degrees, the highest honor available at the high school level. Those recipients included Billy Bob Barcomb, Ashlyn Burk, Guy Holt, Eli Johnson, Corban Lewellen, Camila Matamoros, Kenndyl Meine, Savannah Nelson, Aven Pflieger, and Winona Wagoner. Several members were also recognized for their Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) projects. Kenndyl Meine was named a State Winner in Goat Production and earned Silver in Sheep Production. Wagoner received Gold in Veterinary Science, while Lewellen and Pflieger earned Silver and Bronze placements respectively. Beyond competitions, Beaverhead students were active throughout the convention. Rowdy Mattison performed the National Anthem at the State FFA Degree Dinner in front of more than 750 attendees and served as flag bearer during the opening session. Meine contributed as part of the Convention Social Media Corps, helping share daily updates from the event. Members also participated in industry tours, leadership workshops, and heard from retiring state officers, including Beaverhead’s own 2025–2026 State FFA Parliamentarian Savanna Freitas. The strong showing highlights another successful year for Beaverhead FFA, with students continuing to excel in leadership, competition, and agricultural education at the state level. Cover Photo Beaverhead FFA chapter Facebook page.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana PUBLIC WORKS COMMITTEE MEETING (Water/Sewer/Street/Alley) ~ AGENDA ~ Wednesday, April 8th, 2026 4:00 PM   1.           Call to Order 2.           Discuss/Recommend Creation of a Lighting District SID for Beaver Pride Phase 2 & 3 3.           Discuss/Review Fence on Back of Montana Parking Lot 4.           Discuss/Review Inventory of Street Signs 5.           Discuss/Review Deferring 2026 Pavement Preservation Street Project Due to Budget Restraints 6.           Discuss/Review Purchasing an aluminum trench box for $8460.56 7.           Public Comment on Items Not on Agenda but Within the Jurisdiction of The City 8.           Adjournment   Committee Members Russ Schwandt, Chair Raymond Graham Mike Brumbaugh

The University of Montana Western’s 129th Annual Commencement Ceremony, to be held on Saturday, May 9, will honor Dr. Janelle Handlos with the University’s Alumni Distinguished Service Award. Janelle Handlos attended the University of Montana Western from 1996–2000, earning a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education with a major in Physical Education and Health, a minor in English, and an emphasis in Sports Medicine. She went on to earn a Master of Science in Health and Human Development from Montana State University in 2001 and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Montana in 2014. Janelle began her professional career at Montana Western in 2001 as the university’s first assistant athletic trainer and an instructor in the physical education and health program. During more than two decades of service to the university, she has played a vital role in both athletics and academics. Following the retirement of her mentor, Dave Kendall, she became Head Athletic Trainer, later served as Interim Athletic Director, and helped establish the Department of Health & Human Performance. In 2015, she transitioned into a full-time, tenure-track faculty position and has since served as department chair, Interim Director of Athletics, part-time licensed athletic trainer, and an active member and chair of numerous campus committees. Beyond campus, Janelle has been deeply engaged in the Dillon community. She is currently the track and field coach at Beaverhead County High School, has served as a guest speaker for local schools and youth programs, volunteered with the American Red Cross, and contributed to organizations including P.E.O., the Montana Athletic Trainers Association, and the Northwest Athletic Trainers Association. Her past service also includes the Dillon Jaycees, Beaverhead Little League coach and Safety Officer, the Southwestern Montana Community Health Center Board of Directors, Dillon Area Love INC, and volunteer medical support for the Beaverhead Marathon. She also works as an athletic trainer for Intermountain Health and as a group exercise instructor at the YMCA. Her dedication to students and service has earned numerous honors, including the Northwest Athletic Trainers’ Association ElevATe Award (2024), University of Montana Western Athletics Hall of Fame – Meritorious Service (2022), Montana Athletic Trainers’ Association State Recognition Award (2021), Frontier Conference Athletic Trainer of the Year (2015), and induction into both the Montana Athletic Trainers’ Association and University of Montana Athletic Training Halls of Fame (2016), among many others. Janelle and her husband, Keith (UMW Class of 2001), are the parents of Taylor, a current Montana Western student-athlete. Throughout her career, Janelle has been known for her steady leadership, genuine care for students, and willingness to do whatever is needed to support the Montana Western community. “We are honored to recognize Dr. Janelle Handlos with the 2026 Montana Western Alumni Distinguished Service Award. Her lasting impact on students, campus programs, and the Dillon community reflects her commitment to service, leadership, and Montana Western,” said UMW Foundation and Alumni Director Roxanne Engellant. Janelle will also be recognized during a special luncheon on Friday, May 8, at 11:30 a.m. in the Lewis and Clark Room, held in conjunction with the 50- and 25-year reunions for the Classes of 1976 and 2001. The luncheon is offered at a reduced rate of $10 per person, thanks to the generous support of the UMW Foundation Board. To RSVP, please call Kelly Allen at 406-683-7306. Following the luncheon, a guided campus tour will be available, and guests are invited to attend the Legacy Plaza Celebration at 3:30 p.m. Alumni are also invited to attend Commencement on Saturday, May 9, at 10:00 a.m. in Bulldog Stadium. For more information, please contact Jolene Robbins in the Montana Western Foundation and Alumni Office at 406-683-7303 or  j jolene.robbins@umwestern.edu .

DILLON — The Dillon Jaycees welcomed families to Vigilante Park on Saturday, April 4, for their annual Easter egg hunt, drawing a large crowd of eager children ready to gather treats. Kids lined up in anticipation as an old-time fire engine prepared to signal the start. Scattered across the park were thousands of Easter eggs, along with candy bars and other goodies waiting to be collected. At exactly 10 a.m., the fire engine’s horn sounded and children rushed into the park, quickly filling their baskets. Within just a few minutes—by 10:03 a.m.—most of the eggs had been gathered, with participants continuing to search for any hidden treasures that may have been missed. The annual event once again provided a fun and festive way for local families to celebrate the Easter season.

DILLON — Seven Beaverhead County High School athletes took the next step in their athletic careers Tuesday afternoon, signing to compete at the collegiate level across multiple sports programs. Jrney Mata’afa signed with the University of Montana Western to play football, while Hank Hagenbarth will continue his football career at Carroll College in Helena. On the diamond, Sawyer Tackett will head to Washington to play baseball at Walla Walla, Cohen Hartman signed with Colorado Christian University in Lakewood, Colorado, and Trenton Moreni will continue his baseball career at Blue Mountain Community College in Pendleton, Oregon. Sage Tash will continue her volleyball career at Western Nebraska Community College in Scottsbluff, Nebraska, and Izzy Reagan signed with the University of Montana to compete in track and field. The signing day ceremony highlighted the dedication and effort each of these Beaver athletes has put in during their time at BCHS. Southwestern Montana News congratulates these athletes and wishes them continued success at the next level. Trenton Moreni Sawyer Tackett Sage Tash Cohen Hartman Hank Hagenbarth Jrney Mata’afa Izzy Regan

The University of Montana Western will honor longtime campus leader Nicole Hazelbaker with the Friends of Education Award during the Night of Stars – Education Hall of Fame celebration. The event will be held on April 25, 2026, in the Lewis and Clark Room on the Montana Western campus. A Dillon native, Hazelbaker began her career at Montana Western in 1994 as the campus operator. Over the course of her career, she served in several key roles, including Residence Life Director and later Dean of Students, where she worked closely with students and helped shape the campus experience for generations of Bulldogs. Hazelbaker earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Western Montana College and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Phoenix. Throughout her time at Montana Western, she valued the opportunity to support and learn alongside students, building lasting relationships with both students and colleagues across campus. “I loved working and learning with the students,” Hazelbaker said. “Being a part of their accomplishments and watching them succeed in their dreams has been the most rewarding part of my career.” University officials noted that Hazelbaker’s dedication, compassion, and steady leadership have left a lasting impact on the Montana Western community. Her commitment to student success and campus life has helped shape the experiences of countless students during her tenure. Hazelbaker and her husband, Todd, and daughter Charli, are actively connected to Montana Western and the Dillon Community. The Night of Stars – Education Hall of Fame celebration honors individuals whose contributions have significantly strengthened Montana Western and enriched the educational experiences of its students. Tickets for the event are available at  https://tinyurl.com/UMWNOS26  or by contacting the Montana Western Foundation at 406-683-7306. Seating is limited, and advance purchase is encouraged.

April 1, 2026- Over the next two months Northwestern Energy will be replacing power poles on the Beaverhead Trails Coalition’s High Trails property.  This work is being done as part of Northwestern Energy’s Avian Protection Plan to reduce bird injuries and mortalities due to powerline collisions and electrocutions.  Please be aware that there will be work vehicles, including heavy equipment on the trail system during this time.    BTC may need to close some trails temporarily to reduce user/equipment interaction.  Please be aware of signage and respect these closures during this time.  Tim’s Ridge and the M Trail will be impacted. There will be one day of full trail system closure while new poles are flown in and placed by helicopter.  At this time, the anticipated date is April 28, 2026, weather dependent.   If you have questions, please reach out to beaverheadtrails@gmail.com .  For more information on Beaverhead Trails Coalition or to donate and support the trails, please visit our website- www.beaverheadtrails.org