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The Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education is pleased to announce it has selected 15 faculty from around the state to be honored as Montana University System Teaching Scholars, including University of Montana Western Professor of Business, Dr. Christian Gilde. Now in its fourth year, the MUS Teaching Scholars program was created to promote excellent teaching and learning outcomes and to continuously make the profound impact of high-quality teaching more accessible to all students. The program does so by recognizing faculty members who have made exemplary contributions at their institutions and by supporting these faculty in leading their peers to further advance excellence in teaching.  Each year, the MUS Teaching Scholars program focuses on a selected theme that highlights innovative approaches to teaching and that aligns with MUS priorities. This year, the MUS Teaching Scholars program is focused on Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the classroom. In higher education, AI has and will continue to change how students learn, how faculty teach, and the workforce graduates will enter. At the heart of the MUS Teaching Scholars program is the way it builds cumulative impact through faculty learning communities. During the fall semester, each Teaching Scholar will lead faculty on their home campus in developing innovative and effective teaching strategies.   Selected MUS Teaching Scholars are from all types of institutions within the Montana University System – doctoral flagship, regional four-year, two-year and community college. Scholars were chosen from a competitive pool of faculty from across the system and all faculty tracks and ranks. A team of interdisciplinary researchers including Dr. Christian Gilde shared their findings last year focused on the creative capabilities of AI and potential applications in various industries . This research, combined with Dr. Gilde’s expertise in business and technology, contributed to his selection as a 2024 MUS Teaching Scholar. Additional information about the program, this year’s theme, and past cohorts can be found at  https://mus.edu/che/arsa/mus-teaching-scholars/ . 2024-2025 MUS Teaching Scholars Christian Gilde ,  Business & Technology, University of Montana Western ​ Blaine Berrington ,  Chemistry, Montana Technological University ​ Kyndra Campbell,  Writing & Developmental Humanities, Gallatin College ​ Jason Clark ,  Research Analytics, Optimization, & Data Services, MSU ​ Anna Conley , Law School, University of Montana ​ Kari Dahle-Huff ,  Educational Theory & Practice, MSU Billings ​ Charles Denny,   English, Miles Community College ​ Samuel Downs,   General Studies, Great Falls College ​ Gwen Hart ,  English, MSU Northern Karen Henderson ,  General Education, Helena College ​ Taylor Moorman ,  Instructional Technology Librarian, MSU ​ John Pannell,   Computer Systems Technology, City College ​ Amy Ratto Parks,   Center for Writing & Public Speaking, University of Montana ​ Jana Parsons,   General Education, Great Falls College ​ Rebecca Tyler,   Mathematics, Great Falls College

Tuesday March 19, the Dillon Beavers Baseball team opened up the first home game of the season with an 8 to 1 win over the Frenchtown Broncs. The Frenchtown Broncs would put only one point on the board from a wild pitch in the first inning. The Beavers would not let that deter them and they would focus on the rest of the game not allowing another Bronc to cross the plate. Sawyer Tackett would hit a double play to allow the Beavers to tie up the game at the bottom of the first. The Beavers would take the lead in the bottom of the second inning. Taylor Handlos singled, scoring one run giving the Beavers a 2 to 1 lead. Trenton Moreni collected two hits in two at bats. The Beavers would have collected ten walks in the game. Trenton Moreni, Sawyer Tackett, and Jase Alvarez all had walks. Trenton Moreni and Cohen Hartman had multiple stolen bases. The Beavers had six stolen bases for the game. The Junior Varsity would play at 5 P.M. yesterday and would be handed a loss with a final score of 5 to 10. You can catch the next home game Friday March 22 at 3 P.M.

HELENA – Hunters have until April 1 to apply for deer and elk permits and nonresident combination licenses. Hunters can buy licenses and apply for permits on the  FWP website ; click on “Buy and Apply.”   Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks offers several tools to help hunters navigate the application process. Click here  to watch a video tutorial for Montana  residents;   click here  to watch a video tutorial for  nonresidents . To see a playlist of all FWP’s hunting license video tutorials, click here . For help with understanding how bonus points are used, you can visit fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses/bonus-points A new online feature this year is the option for applicants to reapply for the same offerings as last year with just a simple click, eliminating the need to search through previous applications. Most FWP offices will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The licensing call center will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. through April 1; after April 1, the hours will return to 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The call center can be reached at 406-444-2950.  Regulations changes Before you purchase your licenses and permits, be sure to check the 2024 regulations . Several changes take effect this year. In Regions 6 and 7, regulations are in place that restrict antlerless mule deer harvest to occur only on private land in FWP Regions 6 and 7, including private lands enrolled in the Block Management Program. That means all mule deer B licenses in Regions 6 and 7 will be valid only on private land. This restriction also applies to those hunting districts (HDs) in Regions 6 and 7 that allow antlerless mule deer harvest on a general license. Also in Region 7, the commission voted to split the region into north and south segments for antelope hunting. The dividing line will be the Yellowstone River. North of the river, licenses will be 007-21 (either-sex) and 007-31 (doe/fawn). South of the river, licenses will be 007-20 (either-sex) and 007-30 (doe/fawn). Archery only licenses will remain the same, 900-20. In Region 4 HDs 410, 411, 412, 417, 419 and 426, the general deer license changed to antlered buck only. As a result, the only antlerless mule deer hunting available in these HDs is via B licenses through the draw. In addition, these B-licenses will be valid only on private land. Also, HDs 410 and 417 the general deer license structure changed to limited-entry permit only, meaning hunters with a general license can no longer hunt and harvest mule deer bucks in these HDs. HD 426 will remain a general license for antlered mule deer bucks during the archery season and the first three weeks of the general season, but the last two weeks of the general season will only be open to hunters with a limited-entry permit. HDs 411, 412 and 419 will remain general license for antlered bucks during both the archery and general mule deer seasons. Get your 2024 Conservation License If you’re heading out this year to recreate on state land, you need to make sure you have your 2024 Conservation License. This license is required to recreate on fishing access sites, wildlife management areas, wildlife habitat protection areas and most Montana Department of Natural Resources Lands. State parks do not require a Conservation License. Anyone 12 and older needs to have a current Conservation License. Recreationists who arrange a trip through a guide or outfitter, including tubing trips and horseback riding trips, need to make sure they follow Conservation License requirements. These licenses can be purchased online at ols.fwp.mt.gov/ , at any FWP office or any of FWP’s 290 license providers located throughout the state. They cost $8 for residents, $4 for resident youth ages 12 to 17 and seniors 62 and older, and $10 for nonresidents. If you’re a hunter, trapper or angler, the Conservation License is purchased when you purchase your other licenses. Tips and reminders   Don’t wait until the last day to apply.  A valid driver's license or valid photo ID is required to purchase a license. If you’re applying for a special license or permit, you will need to have a valid email address. The  Online Licensing System  is available from 5 a.m. to 11:45 p.m.  A separate and rotating moose, bighorn sheep or mountain goat SuperTag lottery for resident hunters will be conducted annually. Montana residents will receive one free chance in the lottery for every General Elk or General Deer License purchased.    Application deadlines    Smith River Super Permit – March 22  Paddlefish (white tag) – March 22   Deer and Elk Special Permits – April 1 Special Licenses – June 1   Nonresident combination licenses – April 1 Bighorn Sheep – May 1   Bison – May 1   Moose – May 1   Mountain Goat – May 1   Antelope – June 1   SuperTags Antelope, Bighorn Sheep, Bison, Deer, Elk, Moose, Mountain Goat, and Mountain Lion –July 1   Mountain Lion Special Licenses – July 22   For more information on Montana hunting licenses and permits, go to  fwp.mt.gov/buyandapply/hunting-licenses .

Thursday March 21st, 2024 at 7:00 P.M.  City Council Chambers  Planning Board Meeting  AGENDA     Call Meeting to Order   Review and Approval of Minutes from the December 7th, 2023 Meeting   Election of Officers   Review/Recommendation of the Clover View Subdivision    Update of the Love’s Project   Update of Tully Springs Subdivision    Discussion/Planning of Updating the Growth Policy   Discussion of Updating Subdivision Application   Update of Beaverhead County Planning Board Activities   Public Comment on items of significant public interest not on the agenda and within the jurisdiction of the Planning Board.   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, Larry Volkening, Dan Nye, Ed Mooney

HELENA, Mont. – The Montana Department of Commerce announced today that 32 Montana towns, cities and counties will share more than $1 million of grant funding to help develop and plan infrastructure projects to increase the health and safety for those communities and their residents. The funding is through Commerce’s Montana Coal Endowment Program (MCEP).   “It is vital that Montana communities have safe and reliable infrastructure systems to enable steady growth and economic expansion, for right now and for many years to come,” said Paul Green, Director of the Montana Department of Commerce. “That is why Commerce will continue to allocate grants through programs like this, funding that can support eligible community development projects that will add health and safety improvements for Montanans and their communities.”  The State-funded 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 Basin Water and Sewer District will receive $16,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The Bigfork County Water and Sewer District will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The City of Bozeman will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a stormwater preliminary engineering report.   The City of Conrad will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Culbertson will receive $32,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a stormwater preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Darby will receive $30,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  The City of Deer Lodge will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a stormwater preliminary engineering report and $16,040 to complete a comprehensive capital improvements plan.  The City of Dillon will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report. The Town of Drummond will receive $30,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The East Canyon Ferry County Water and Sewer District will receive $36,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  Flathead County Water District No 1-Evergreen will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  The City of Havre will receive $16,960 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Joliet will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Jordan will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  Judith Basin County will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report for the Geyser Water and Sewer District.  Lewis and Clark County will receive $32,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a bridge preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Manhattan will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The North Valley County Water and Sewer District will receive $18,885.72 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Philipsburg will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a stormwater preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Pinesdale will receive $36,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.   RAE Subdivision County Water and Sewer District No. 313 will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  Ravalli County will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.   The Town of Richey will receive $15,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The City of Ronan will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Ryegate will receive $32,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The City of Shelby will receive $36,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Sheridan will receive $32,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water preliminary engineering report.  The Town of St. Ignatius will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  The Sun Prairie Village County Water and Sewer District will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water and wastewater systems capital improvements plan.  The Ten Mile/Pleasant Valley Estates Sewer and Water District will receive $25,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report.  The Town of Whitehall will receive $40,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a stormwater preliminary engineering report.  The City of Wolf Point will receive $20,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a wastewater preliminary engineering report and $28,000 to complete a capital improvements plan.  In 2021, the City of Forsyth received $15,000 of MCEP planning grant funding to complete a water system professional engineering report. The report was related to an extensive water system renovation that was long overdue for the community.    “The City of Forsyth is thankful and appreciative for the MCEP funds that were provided through the grant process for our preliminary engineering report,” said Dennis Kopitzke, Mayor of Forsyth. “Without the MCEP grant, the city would never been able to move ahead with the project.”  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 .

405 N. IDAHO STREET DILLON, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY March 19, 2024 5:00 PM AGENDA: I. Call to order II. Approval of Minutes from 02-20-2023 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

PARKS COMMITTEE MEETING City Council Chambers Wednesday March 20 th , 2024 4:00 P.M. AGENDA 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Discuss/Approve DBSA Contract for Ray Lynch Park and Irrigation Rate 3. Review/Update Park Fees 4. Discussion of Applying a Portion of Park Reservation Fees into Reserve Account 5. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City. 6. Adjourn Parks Committee Members: Raymond Graham (Chair); Diane Armstrong, Joleen Schultz

6:45 P.M. Public Hearing on Title 17   7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE     A.           MINUTES 1.         Approve March 6th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes   B.           PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS   C.        MAYOR’S REPORT 1.         Discuss/Approve Amended Guza Attorney Contract 2.         Approve the Appointment of Probationary Officers, Jesse Randolph and Louis Ochoa, III. 3.         Discuss/Approve the Resolution Authorizing Application for Land & Water Conservation Fund             Assistance. 4.         Discuss/Approve City-County Health Board Amended MOU   D.        REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1.         Library Board - Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Lori Canady, Library Director 2.         Planning Board  - Dan Nye, Bill Shafer 3.         Zoning Commission -  Raymond Graham, Russ Schwandt                         a.         Accept February 27th, 2024 Regular Meeting Minutes                                     i.  Discuss/Approve Finding of Fact – UM Western Athletic Field     4.         Board of Adjustments - Diane Armstrong, Joleene Schultz 5.         Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6.         Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez 7.         Fire Department -- Fire Chief BJ Klose 8.         City Court – Judge Bill Knox 9.         Treasurer – Karen Kipp             a.         Approve Cash Summary Report for December, 2023 b.         Approve Cash Bank Reconciliation Report for December, 2023 c.         Approve Stockman Bank Collateral Report for December, 2023 d.         Approve Bank of Commerce Collateral Report for December, 2023 e.         Approve Cash Summary Report for January, 2024 f.          Approve Cash Bank Reconciliation Report for January, 2024 g.         Approve Stockman Bank Collateral Report for January, 2024   10.       Tree Board – Mary Jo O’Rourke                         a.         Accept February 6th, 2024 Meeting Minutes                         E.         REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1.         Judiciary Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Raymond Graham, Diane Armstrong                         a.  Approve March 12th,  2024 Regular Meeting Minutes 2.         Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Dan Nye, 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; Dan Nye, Mary Jo O’Rourke 8.         Street and Alley Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Joleen Schultz 9.          Water and Sewer Committee – Bill Shafer, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Anneliese Ripley                         a.         Accept March 7th, 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.

As part of the University of Montana Western’s “On the Rocks” guest lecture series hosted by the Environmental Sciences Department, please join us on Wednesday, March 27, 2024 at 3:45 pm in Block Hall room 311 on the UMW campus for a special presentation by Richard I. Gibson titled “Geology and History on the Silver Bow Creek Greenway Trail.” A geologist, historian, and tour guide based in Butte, America, Gibson has published extensively on a variety of disciplines, including “Lost Butte, Montana”, “What Things Are Made Of”, and an upcoming publication on the Greenway Trail. He is a founding member of the Tobacco Root Geological Society and is also an expert on the mineralogy of kidney stones. Gibson has served in a variety of organizations, including the Butte Historic Preservation Commission, as Education Director at the  World Museum of Mining , and as the secretary of  Butte Citizens for Preservation and Revitalization . He also has made lasting contributions to the  Mai Wah Chinese Museum  and Society and wrote the guide to the Mai Wah Archaeological Dig Exhibit. Gibson has also been an editor and author of several historical and architectural Butte guidebooks and newspaper columns. For more information about the “On the Rocks” lecture series, please contact Montana Western Regents Professor of Geology, Dr. Rob Thomas:  rob.thomas@umwestern.edu  or 406-683-7615.

GLASGOW ̶  Paddlefish anglers planning to harvest a fish in the Upper Missouri River (between Fort Peck Dam and Fort Benton) need to apply for an Upper Missouri River paddlefish tag by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 22. For 2024, a total of 1,000 tags are available for the drawing. A 2024 fishing license is necessary before applying, and applications can be submitted online at fwp.mt.gov or at an FWP office. Anglers have the option to apply individually or as a party (up to five people) and have the option to purchase a bonus point at the time of application. There is not an E-Tag available for this license, so it cannot be used with the MyFWP app. Successful applicants may harvest a fish anytime during the season, which runs from May 1 through June 15. Those anglers not successful in drawing a harvest tag will be issued a snag-and-release license for the Upper Missouri and will not be eligible to purchase any other paddlefish tag. Drawing results will be available in early April. Additionally, anglers who did not participate in the drawing but would like to participate in snag-and-release, can purchase an Upper Missouri River paddlefish snag-and-release license at any FWP office, online or at any license provider throughout the season.       Anglers may select only one area to fish for paddlefish: Upper Missouri River (White Harvest Tag  ̶  1,000 tags available through the drawing) from May 1 to June 15, Yellowstone River and Missouri River downstream of Fort Peck Dam (Yellow Harvest Tag  ̶  1,000 fish quota) from May 15 to June 30, and the Fort Peck Dredge Cut archery-only season (Blue Harvest Tag) from July 1 to Aug. 31. All harvested paddlefish must be immediately tagged and reported within 48 hours. Reporting options include: onsite check points where fish was harvested (such as Intake Fishing Access Site), self-reporting stations on the Upper Missouri and Fort Peck Dredge Cuts, calling 1-877-FWP-WILD or 406-444-0356, or online at MyFWP at fwp.mt.gov .

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. –  After a successful weekend competing at the Yellowjacket/Battlin' Bear Icebreaker Open, Isaiah Thomas was named the first ERCK Hotels men's outdoor track athlete of the week of the year. Thomas claimed two event wins at the Yellowjacket/Battlin' Bear Ice Breaker Open. He won the 200 Meters with a time of 22.39 seconds while adding a win in the 100 Meters in 10.82 seconds. This is Thomas' first athlete of the week honor in his career.

The Dillon Beavers traveled to Stevensville on Friday, March 15 to take on the Stevensville Yellowjackets for the opening season of Beaver Baseball. Both the JV team as well as the Varsity team would open the season with a win. The JV team jumped out into an early lead in the first inning. Colby Garland tripled, scoring two runs, Henry Wu singled, scoring one run, and an error scored two runs. In the second inning the Beavers would score ten runs. Colby Garland drew a walk scoring one run, an error scored another run, Jerry Haro Mora drew a walk, scoring a run, a Colby Garland singled, scoring two runs, and an error that scored two runs. Andrew Bartlome earned the win for the JV Beavers surrendering only one hit and run over three innings, no walks and striking out seven. The Beaver Varsity team would win against the Yellowjackets with a 5 to 1 score. The Beavers scored in the first inning after Sawyer Tackett singled, scoring one run, and Jase Alvarez was struck by a pitch, driving in a run. Sawyer Tackett pitching for the Beavers allowed zero hits and zero runs over three innings, striking out five and walking three. Jerry Haro- Mora threw two innings of no run-ball for the Beavers as well. Marcus Lagunas, the number seven hitter for the Beavers, led the way with two runs batted in. Trenton Moreni, Taylor Handlos, Sawyer Tackett, Cohen Hartman, Marcus Lagunas, and Jase Alvarez each collected one hit for the Beavers. Trenton Moreni and Jase Alvarez each had multiple stolen bases. The Beavers ran wild on stolen bases accumulating eight stolen bases for the game. Catch the first home game of the season this Tuesday 3 P.M. at Cubs Field Ray Lynch Park.

For the past four years Southwestern Montana News has been making its mark with fast, up to the minute breaking news for the region. The goal has always been the same: to make free news available at the touch of a computer or phone screen. Sure, there have been hurdles along the way. A global pandemic, construction projects on Idaho street, the never-ending noise in our office building.     We are excited to announce that we have moved into a very professional, welcoming new location! If the noise or rowdiness of our prior location scared you off before, there’s no need to fear. Those issues have been remedied and we would love to show you what’s in store for the future of our business.   Our endeavors have come to fruition, and we know that is because of our readers and followers. But to put things in perspective, we literally could not have done this without our advertisers and sponsors. The ones who saw our potential when we just had the glimmer of ideas. Brenda from Womack’s Printing, Debbie from the Bookstore, Ron Carroll, Judy Siring, and  many others have not only helped secure a way to keep our doors open, but their belief in what we do, as well as their constant support either through mentoring or being a sponsor and advertiser, has attributed to our positive change in this community.   We will provide you with news, event highlights, and community spotlights for years to come. For those businesses we have yet to work with, we hope you enjoy what we do for this community and look forward to connecting with you. The only way this community will thrive is through positivity and working together!   Feel free to drop in at our new location at 23 North Idaho Suite 1! We’re never too busy to help make your advertising dreams a reality.

Beaverhead County Airport Announces Temporary Closure for Runway Reconstruction The Beaverhead County Airport Board has officially announced a temporary closure of the Beaverhead County Airport (IATA: DLN), scheduled from April 2nd, 2024, to June 28th, 2024. This closure is crucial for the comprehensive reconstruction of the Airport's runways, aimed at enhancing safety and operational efficiency for all users. The necessity for this temporary closure stems from evaluations revealing that the current runway, over 20 years old, is exhibiting signs of potential failure. After thorough consultations with aviation experts, local stakeholders, and community leaders, it was determined that a complete overhaul was essential to ensure the safety and reliability of the Airport infrastructure. Important Closure Details: Closure Period: April 2nd, 2024 to June 28th, 2024. Project Details: The reconstruction includes a complete overhaul of the main runway, repairs to the auxiliary runway, taxiways, and apron with significant upgrades to lighting and navigation systems. Operational Impact: During this period, no aircraft operations will be permitted at the Airport, necessitating the suspension of all flight operations. Special Advisory for Aircraft Owners: Aircraft owners with planes housed at Dillon Airport are advised that no operations will be possible during the construction phase. Those requiring access for flight operations to their aircraft during the closure are strongly recommended to relocate their planes to another Airport before the end of March 2024 to avoid any inconvenience and ensure the safety of all aircraft and personnel involved.

Friday March 15th Pint Night! Dillon Junior Golf $1 from every beer sold will donated to the Dillon Junior Golf program's par 3 expansion project! They will be hosting a 50/50 drawing and a putting contest during the event! Live Music At Willie's Distillery Left for dead will be returning to Willies on Friday March 15th from 5:30 to 7:30 for an evening of song, moonshine and cheer. Hope to see you there. Come on out, order up some Honey Moonshine, grab hold of the saddle horn and hang on for some great fun. Of course we don't want you to miss our show but if you get a chance, drop by Willie's anytime. Willie's has great décor and of course it's always fun to sample their moonshine and other spirits! You will Willie like Willie's! Wear some green as we will be celebrating Saint Patrick's Day a couple days early with a number of Irish tunes. Saturday March 16th Blessing & Kick-Off St Patrick's Day Join us on Saturday, March 16th at 3:30pm at Park and Main Streets as we kick off St. Patrick’s Day with a welcome from JP Gallagher and Stephanie Sorini. A blessing from Bishop Vetter and a declaration to officially start the festivities from Father Patrick Beretta. St Patrick's Day Party Don’t miss our annual St. Patrick’s day party! Saturday, March 16th, from 5-8 pm. There will be a best dressed contest, food, Irish Red Ale and Nitro Stout on tap, Irish tunes will be jamming and lots of laughs and cheer as we raise a pint to the day. Let the shenanigans begin Sunday March 17th 2024 Buttes St Patrick's Day Parade The Butte America Foundation is proud to host the 2024 St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Uptown Butte on Sunday, March 17, 2024 at 12:00 PM. The parade route will begin at the corner of Arizona and Granite, proceeding West on Granite to Montana, South on Montana to Park St., and then finally East on Park St. towards Arizona where the parade will finish. A variety of food vendors will be located on Main Street between Broadway and Park Streets. To register for the parade, nominate Grand Marshal or sign up to be a food vendor, click here: https://butteamericafoundation.org St Patrick's Day Color Run https://runsignup.com/.../Butte/StPatricksDayButteColorRun The St. Patrick’s Day Color Run is a healthy, alternative activity option to youth, families, and the community to participate in on St. Patrick’s Day. The event will be held at Stodden Park, consisting of a short 1-mile course (fun run), and a separate 5K course within the park. You can run, walk or skip along the course laps as you are adorned with brilliantly colored powder from a number of “color stations” along the way. Collaboration with the Spirit of Columbia Carousel will take place, music, and activities hosted by students and other community organizations will also be present. Late registration and packet pick up will begin at 12:00 PM. Races will commence at 3:00 PM. All children 16 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Sign up by February 24 to be guaranteed a shirt. This venue is a substance free facility and event. *****Packet Pickup will be held Thursday March 14 from Noon-6:00 PM @ the Butte Plaza Mall *****If you are unable to make this day, packets can be picked up starting at 12:00 PM at the Event. Please note it is important to get your materials at least 30 minutes prior to the start of the race, and no later. We want to do our best to limit chaos and congestion. St Patrick's Day Kids Zone Join us on Sunday March 17th at The Abode for Free Kid Zone Activities: Jump rope, skip it, sidewalk chalk, hopscotch, bean bag toss & more! A safe place for kids to play before & after the parade while the parents have their fun nearby 1st Annual Walkerville St Patty's Day Market Join us for a family friendly celebration of St Pattys Day at the location of the future Walkerville Grocery Store! Featuring many local Butte craftsmen and artisans, a portion of the proceeds generated from this event will go to kickstart the future grocery store and cement it as a gathering place for the Uptown community!

From an email sent from BHS to parents today March 14 at 9:40 A.M. Butte High School has been notified of a threat to kill teachers and students at BHS using an automatic rifle.  We are currently investigating the threat and out of an abundance of caution we are evacuating the building and sending all students home for the remainder of the day.  Buses will be available to provide transportation to students who regularly ride the bus. Parent teacher conferences scheduled tonight  will also be canceled.  As soon as we get more information regarding the threat we will update you on the school schedule for tomorrow.    Update 03/14/2024 2:28 P.M. The Butte School District received notification from the Butte Police Department that Butte High School was never the target of this morning's threat. In their investigation they learned that the threat was generated from out of state and was meant to target a high school in Washington. The person who was responsible for generating and posting the threat has been apprehended and taken into custody. Butte High and other Butte School District schools were never a target of this threat. Based on this information, Butte High and all other schools will follow the regular school schedule for Friday March 15, 2024. I want to personally thank all of the Butte High students, staff, parents and the Butte Police Department for their exemplary performance in handling the situation. Please know that at all times the safety of the students and staff were at the forefront of each decision that was made.

Dillon, Montana, March 14, 2024 – Barrett Hospital & HealthCare is thrilled to announce a new partnership with Bridger Orthopedic, Southwest Montana’s most comprehensive and renowned orthopedic practice, based in Bozeman. This collaborative effort brings an additional skilled orthopedic surgeon to live and work in Dillon. The partnership between Barrett Hospital & HealthCare and Bridger Orthopedic signifies a substantial milestone in improving access to specialized orthopedic services for residents of Dillon and the surrounding regions. The addition of a highly skilled and experienced orthopedic surgeon to serve Dillon and the surrounding regions enables Barrett Hospital & HealthCare to continue to demonstrate its commitment to meet the diverse healthcare needs of the community. This strategic alliance ensures that patients will have access to more orthopedic treatments, including joint replacements, sports medicine care, fracture care, and additional highly specialized orthopedic treatments. "Bridger Orthopedic is a leader in orthopedic services in Southwest Montana. We are excited to begin our partnership with them and bring even more specialized care to our community," said Taylor Rose, Chief Executive Officer at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare. "By bringing an additional high quality orthopedic surgeon to Dillon, we can continue to build our team providing first-class care to our community members, right here in their hometown. This collaboration is a testament to our commitment to prioritize our patients' needs, reduce travel, and enhance their healthcare experience." After a national search, Barrett Hospital & HealthCare and Bridger Orthopedic have selected Dr. Gregg W. Schellack, DO, a well-respected orthopedic surgeon, and a specialist in the field, to serve in this role. Dr. Schellack will be joining the orthopedic team, stepping in as Dr. Dan Downey, MD, a revered member of Barrett Hospital & HealthCare’s surgical staff, enters a well-deserved retirement. Dr. Schellack, a Dillon native, will be returning to the community and joining Barrett Hospital & HealthCare to provide skilled care beginning on April 1st 2024. Driven by a passion for delivering personalized treatment plans, Dr. Schellack will work closely with patients to alleviate pain, restore mobility, and improve their quality of life. “I’m excited that I will be returning to my roots in Dillon, a place that instilled in me the values of community and compassion, to continue my journey in medicine,” said Dr. Gregg W. Schellack, DO. “Now, with years of specialized training and experience, I am eager to give back to the town that gave me so much. My goal is to provide comprehensive, patient-centered orthopedic care by utilizing the latest techniques and technologies improving the quality of life for my patients. It is a privilege to serve the community that has shaped me, and to contribute to its well-being as both a healthcare provider and a proud alumnus of Dillon.” The partnership between Barrett Hospital & HealthCare and Bridger Orthopedic ensures that Dillon and the surrounding area residents will have access to more orthopedic procedures and a range of non-surgical and surgical treatment options. “We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Barrett Hospital & HealthCare, which marks a pivotal step in our commitment to expand quality orthopedic care in the Dillon and the surrounding communities,” said Michael Johns, Chief Executive Officer at Bridger Orthopedic. “This collaboration is a testament to our shared goal of ensuring that the highest standards of orthopedic treatment are accessible to all, regardless of their geographical location. We believe that everyone deserves the best possible care close to home, and we are proud to be part of a team that is making this a reality for those living in and around the Dillon area.” For more information about orthopedic services at Barrett Hospital & HealthCare or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Schellack please visit www.barretthospital.org or call 406-683-3060.

Team A of Sean, Laura, Izzy, Hunter, and Athan went undefeated and won 1st place - beating Missoula Sentinel in the championship!  They have a big traveling trophy and plaque to show for it - along with gifts coming from the MSU Bookstore! Team B of Olivette, Zoe, Danner, Brekken and Lilla took one early loss but then battled back through many matches to take 6th place - losing by just a few points. Team C of Emma, Darrell, Clara, and Amelia (had to run short one player) but they were one of the only 'C' teams to stay in the tournament as long as they did - losing to Manhattan and then to our own B team.  They were a younger team and not as experienced with competition but really did an outstanding job! It was great to see all these students equally contributing to the success of the day! We brought home multiple written test awards also: Olivette - 4th top score senior and 4th top overall (out of about 200 students) Laura - 5th top senior and 5th overall Zoe- 6th senior and 7th overall Brekken - 2nd Sophomore and 9th overall Hunter- 3rd Sophomore and 11th overall Izzy - 5th Sophomore and 13th overall-tie with Amelia Amelia - 2nd  Freshman  and 13th overall- tie with Izzy Athan - 5th Freshman  We had 9 people who scored in the top 20: Olivette, Laura, Zoe, Brekken, Hunter, Amelia, Izzy, Sean and Danner And finally - I was so impressed when, after all the awards were handed out, the coordinators of the tournament awarded 'Mr. Congeniality' to our very own Sean Regan!  They said that every judge commented on how polite he was to everyone - quick to give thanks and shake everyone's hands, etc.   Our kids truly represented BCHS with good character, great respect and excellence!  Thank you for the role you all play in making this possible! Thank you Janet Gentry for the heads up on this accomplishment and congratulations to the BCHS Academic Olympic Teams.

This year's State FFA Degree recipients: Samantha Anderson Andrew Egan William Ellis Clinton Ford Faye Holland Katie Johnson Bridger Kemph Kaydyn Nelson Clancy Setzer Conrad results: Vet Science - 1st place team - Katie Johnson (2nd individual), Savanna Freitas (9th individual), Taylor Yecny (10th individual), Eli Johnson, Molli Miner, Winona Wagoner, Kenndyl Meine, Bridget Lovaas Ag Mechanics - 11th place team - Porter Hopman, Chase Brown, Will Ellis, Clinton Ford, Asher Burch, Athan Graham, Morgan Heiland, Cole Webster Agronomy - didn't have a full team due to kids missing for tournaments, both Brekken Venn and Faye Holland placed in the top 40 individually.