Search Results

UMW Press Release Montana Western Athletics and the UMW Foundation & Alumni Office will be hosting the 2023 Athletics Hall of Fame Ceremony on Friday, October 13 at 4:30 p.m. in the Lewis and Clark Room of Mathews Hall. A no-host social will begin at 4:30 p.m. followed by a buffet dinner to open at 5:00 p.m. The cost of the dinner is $20 for adults, $15 for ages 6-17, and free for ages five and below. Tickets for the Hall of Fame dinner can be purchased online at https://tinyurl.com/UMW-HOF2023 or by calling 406-683-7306. The University of Montana Western is honored to celebrate the induction of the following athletes into the Bulldog Athletics Hall of Fame: Trent Gibson Trent Gibson, a standout linebacker, was a member of the Bulldog Football team that won several Frontier Conference titles and made the National semi-finals in 1995. Trent was named First Team All-Conference and All-American during his time at Montana Western. In 1995, after completing basic training, Trent enlisted in the Montana Army National Guard and was deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2005. He graduated from UMW in 1999 with a BA in Environmental Science and continued his education at Western Governor’s University, receiving a Master of Science in Educational Leadership & Administration in 2014. Trent currently serves as Brigade Commander of the 1889th Regional Support Group and recently graduated from U.S. Army War College at Carlisle, Pennsylvania. In 2018, Trent became the Director of the Montana Youth Challenge Program where he continues to make an impact on the UMW campus. Paul Snow Paul Snow played for coach Bob Beers and the Bulldog Football team from 1994 to 1996 where they would win back-to-back Frontier Conference Champion titles. Throughout his football career at Montana Western, Paul was named Second Team All-Conference, First Team All-Conference, Honorable Mention All-American, and Second Team All-American. After graduating with a BA in business, Paul went on to play semi-pro football for the East Side Hawks in Kirkland, Washington where he was part of the 2004 Semi-Pro National Championship team. Paul currently lives in Rochester, Washington and works for the Department of Transportation. His favorite football memory is beating Montana Tech the day after his son was born. Wyatt Smith Wyatt Smith was a student rodeo athlete at the University of Montana Western from 2007 to 2010. During his time at Montana Western, he earned the title of Big Sky Region saddle bronc champion and all-around champion. He went on to qualify for the CNFR four times in bronc riding and steer wrestling. In 2009, Wyatt clinched the National Steer Wrestling title and all-around title at the CNFR, a testament to his versatility and dedication. After graduation, Wyatt went on to compete professionally as a steer wrestler and qualified for the National Finals Rodeo in 2014. Today, Wyatt has turned his passion into a purpose and currently serves as the women’s head rodeo coach and the assistant men’s coach at Clarendon College in Clarendon, Texas. 1966-67 Men’s Track Team The Western Montana College Track teams of 1966 and 1967 won two consecutive Frontier Conference Championships led by head coach, Cecil Kent. At the District Five NAIA track and field meet, Western placed first in 9 of the 16 events. New records were set by standout athletes Wayne McEwen in the shot put and Ken Walt in the discus. The “Salmon Whiz,” Fred Snook, rewrote the school, conference, and NAIA record books with his impressive performance in the 330-yard hurdles. The mile relay team consisting of Fred Snook, Jack Filcher, Gary Youngquist, and Bill Hiner went undefeated all season. Montana Western thanks this team for their contributions to the college and is proud to recognize their accomplishments and enduring legacy. To stay connected with Montana Western Alumni & Friends, please call Special Events and Alumni Coordinator, Jolene Robbins, at 406-683-7303 or visit https://www.umwfoundation.org/alumni-friends/ to join our mailing list, connect on social media, and view upcoming UMW events and announcements.

DVFD responded to Seven calls for service during the month of September 2023. 09-10 Bannack Park Fire Alarm 09-14 N Montana Hazardous Condition/Electrical 09-15 Sweetwater Rd Gas Odor 09-18 Pioneer Dr MVA 09-19 Nevada/Glendale MVA 09-20 StoddardLn Crop Fire 09-30 Skihi Gas Odor Dillon Fire Department hosted their annual Pancake Breakfast on Labor Day, and we served nearly 1,000 people. It was a great time with members of our community. We had several members that completed Fundamentals of Fire Suppression training, the Highschool Homecoming bonfire, Homecoming Parade, the department provided hose / attachments for the YMCA to fill the pool, a few members assisted the Dillon Jaycees at the Rodeo, we had two members and an engine at the Fall Family Resource Fair, Chief attended the Beyond Hoses & Helmets Leadership Training, completed the ICS-700 and 800, the Beaverhead County Resilience Meeting, and the department provided a Live Fire Vehicle Training. Thank you for your continued support of the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department. We had MYC cadets assist with hose laying, and cleaning at the firehall as well as some apparatus.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers October 4 th , 2023 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A. MINUTES 1. Accept September 20 th , 2023 Public Hearing Minutes 2. Approve September 20 th , 2023 Meeting Minutes B. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS 1. Lease Agreement with Beaverhead Animal Shelter 2. Codie Plotner – Police Union President C. MAYOR’S REPORT 1. Mayor’s Announcement D. REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1. Library Board – Diane Armstrong, Council Member; Lori Canady, Library Director a. Accept August 29 th , 2023 Meeting Minutes 2. Attorney – Sky S. Jones 3. Planning Board- Don Hand, Dan Nye 4. Zoning Commission – Raymond Graham, Russ Schwandt a. Accept August 29 th Meeting Minutes 5. Board of Adjustments – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Stephen Sievert 6. Director of Operations -- Todd Hazelbaker 7. Police Department – Police Chief Jeremy Alvarez a. Accept September 2023 Incident Report 8. Fire Department -- Fire Chief, BJ Klose a. Accept September, 2023 Activity Report b. Approve City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for September, 2023 c. Approve Budget vs. Expenditures Report for Fire Hall for September, 2023 9. City Court – Judge Virginia Cook 10. Treasurer – Karen Kipp E. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Judiciary Committee – Dan Nye, Chair; Diane Armstrong, Raymond Graham 2. Finance Committee – Don Hand, Chair; Russ Schwandt, Dan Nye a. Approve September 28 th , 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes i. Approve Line Item Budget Report ii. Approve Fund Summary for claims for September, 2023 iii. Approve Claims by Vendor Report for September, 2023 iv. Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for September, 2023 3. Fire and Order Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Raymond Graham 4. Health and Welfare – Diane Armstrong, Chair; George Johnston, Stephen Sievert 5. Cemetery Committee – George Johnston, Chair; Stephen Sievert, Diane Armstrong 6. Parks Committee –Stephen Sievert, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Diane Armstrong a. Approve September 20 th , 2023 Special Meeting Minutes b. Approve September 27 th , 2023 Regular Meeting Minutes 7. City Hall Committee – Raymond Graham, Chair; Stephen Sievert, Dan Nye 8. Street and Alley Committee –Dan Nye, Chair; Don Hand, Russ Schwandt 9. Water and Sewer Committee –Don Hand, Chair; Russ Schwandt, George Johnston 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.

The Bookstore is participating in Banned Books Week a little differently this year than they have in the past. Banned Book Week is October 1-7. With book bans and restrictions on the rise in classrooms and libraries across the country. The shelves are draped in black cloth and other displays have police caution tape across them. These are representative of what things would look like if we removed books from the shelves every time someone questioned the book or didn’t want to make it available. Debbie shared this year’s theme is Let Freedom Read. “We celebrate reading, celebrate our differences, and rejoice in you choosing books for yourself and your family and respect your choices. We love books and readers and will always defend your right to access.” “The displays today are meant to bring awareness to the realities of book banning and challenges. We encourage you to exercise your reading rights.” Said Debbie. Customers can look under the cloth and caution tape to find the books they are looking for and the display will be up the next couple of days. The Dillon Public Library will also be taking part in banned book week with these activities as well. Events: Starting Monday throughout the week: Where's Waldo? Scavenger Hunt Pick up geocache list at the library. Spread throughout Dillon, most will need to drive. Tuesday only: Jail Cell Bail - stop by each hour to see who's been caught reading a Banned Book! They are all needing bail money! Whoever raises the most will win a prize! Thursday, Friday, and Saturday: Harry Potter Escape Room - who can use the clues to Escape in time. $10 a person, must call to reserve your group's spot. Thursday is full. Friday has morning spots left, Saturday has a few spots left in morning and afternoon. Call Dillon Public Library at 683-4544

KALISPELL — A woman was hospitalized in an encounter with a bear Sunday near the U.S.-Canada border north of Polebridge in Flathead County. At about 3 p.m., Oct. 1, 2023, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks staff were notified that a woman was attacked along the bank of Trail Creek a few miles west of the North Fork Road. The A.L.E.R.T. air ambulance transported the 73-year-old victim to Logan Health Medical Center in Kalispell. FWP wardens and bear specialists are actively investigating the incident and monitoring the site along Trail Creek known as the “Bubble ups” where the creek flows underground before rising to the surface. The site is closed while the investigation continues. The type of bear is unconfirmed at this time. The victim was on national forestland with her husband and dog when the bear emerged from thick brush and attacked her. Her husband deployed bear spray and the bear moved away from the victim. They returned to their vehicle and drove to a location where they could call emergency services. Be bear aware Montana is bear country. In fall, bears are active for longer periods as they consume more food in preparation for hibernation. This period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities. Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters: Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately. Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel in groups. Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears. Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency. If you encounter a bear, never approach it. Leave the area when it is safe to do so. If you are attacked by a bear and you are without a deterrent or the deterrent hasn’t worked, stay face down on the ground, protecting your face and neck with your arms. Stay still until you’re certain the bear has moved away. Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas. Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana. People who hunt in places that have or may have grizzly bears—which includes northwest Montana—should take special precautions: Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately. Look for bear sign and be cautious around creeks and areas with limited visibility. Hunt with a group of people. Making localized noise can alert bears to your presence. Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears. Bring the equipment and people needed to help field dress game and remove the meat from the kill site as soon as possible. If you need to leave part of the meat in the field during processing, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards. Upon your return, observe the meat with binoculars. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call FWP. Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Management authority for grizzlies rests with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, working closely in Montana with FWP, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, Wildlife Services, and Native American tribes. For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware .

UMW Press Release Dr. Spruce W. Schoenemann from the University of Montana Western’s Environmental Sciences Department recently published his work in the journal of Quaternary Science Reviews on glacier retreat in the Pioneer Mountains. The research paper titled “A cosmogenic 10Be (Beryllium 10) moraine chronology of arid, alpine Late Pleistocene glaciation in the Pioneer Mountains of Montana, USA” is a peer-reviewed publication authored by Schoenemann and others that explores when glaciers in the Pioneer Mountains reached their maximum size during the Late Pleistocene period and why they retreated. To research this, Schoenemann and UMW students, Mana Bryant and Will Larson, collected samples from 35 boulders on terminal moraines (deposit areas located on the edge of glaciers). They then used cosmogenic 10Be exposure dating to determine when the glacial ice first retreated, exposing the ice-covered boulders and recording the timing of maximum extent of Late Pleistocene alpine glaciers in the Pioneer Mountains. Cosmogenic 10Be exposure dating is a powerful scientific technique used by geologists and geomorphologists to determine the age of geological and landform features on Earth’s surface. This method relies on the presence of a rare isotope of beryllium called beryllium-10 (10Be), which is produced when high-energy cosmic rays from outer space interact with certain atoms in Earth’s atmosphere and rocks. The Pioneer Mountains, located south of the Cordilleran and Laurentide Ice Sheets (LIS), are strategically positioned to record glacier responses to changing climate conditions. The presence of the nearby LIS had a profound impact on the region’s climate, with dry, cold, katabatic winds descending from the ice sheet during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). As the LIS began to melt, the formation of pro-glacial meltwater lakes likely altered local precipitation patterns, introducing additional moisture to the region. The findings of this study challenge previous assumptions about glacier retreat timing. While some regions in the northwestern United States exhibited earlier deglaciation, the Pioneer Mountains, along with the northwestern Yellowstone glacial system and the northern Montana ice cap, tell a different story. Here, glacier retreat commenced around 18,000 years ago during the local Last Glacial Maximum. This synchronicity suggests that the proximity to the LIS margin played a crucial role in maintaining the glaciers’ full extent for a longer period. UMW, situated in the geologically rich landscape of Southwest Montana, offers a unique environment for projects like this. Dr. Schoenemann’s expertise and commitment to research have provided students at UMW with exceptional opportunities that rival those offered by larger institutions. As alumnus Will Larson notes, “UMW stands out for projects of this caliber, thanks to our access to a geological wonderland in Southwest Montana and the guidance of experienced professors like Dr. Schoenemann, who empower Western students with unparalleled research prospects.” Reflecting on her involvement, alumna Mana Bryant shared, “Participating in this undergraduate project has been an extraordinary experience that has significantly honed my academic skills—a skill set that I will carry with me throughout my life.” “This project really was the epitome of authentic practice in the discipline of glacial geology; where the students had the opportunity to map the landforms, gather samples, crush and sieve them, and then process and extract the 10Be in a world-class lab in Vermont, synthesize the data, and provide a robust interpretation of the ages. All of which has contributed new knowledge and insight to the paleoglacier science community in the western U.S.,” said Schoenemann. To read Dr. Schoenemann’s research in its entirety, visit https://tinyurl.com/45mpuuv9 . For additional information, please email spruce.schoenemann@umwestern.edu . Dr. Schoenemann will be giving a presentation on this topic at the “On the Rocks” seminar on October 4, 2023. The presentation will take place in UMW’s Block Hall room 311 at 3:45 p.m.

Run The Boo 10k, 5k, Kids Race is October 28, 2023 in Dillon, Montana. For more information and to register for this Halloween themed race, go to montanarunningcompany.com .

GARDINER – A hunter killed a grizzly bear Tuesday in an encounter in Beattie Gulch, an area north of Gardiner. The hunter was reportedly charged by the bear before shooting and killing the bear at close range in self-defense. The hunter was not injured. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks received a report of the incident the same day. FWP staff and staff from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, U.S. Forest Service, and National Park Service visited the site and confirmed the bear mortality. An animal carcass was found nearby, and FWP bear specialists and game wardens determined the bear was likely acting defensively. This incident is still under investigation by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service. Be bear aware Montana is bear country. Grizzly bear populations continue to become denser and more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year. This time of year is when bears are active for longer periods as they consume more food in preparation for hibernation. This period overlaps with hunting season and other fall recreation activities. Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters: Carry bear spray and practice to be prepared to use it immediately. Make noise to alert bears to your presence and travel in groups. Stay away from animal carcasses, which often attract bears. Follow food storage orders from the applicable land management agency. Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building. Keep garbage in a secure building until the day it is collected. Certified bear-resistant garbage containers are available in many areas. Never feed wildlife. Bears that become food conditioned lose their natural foraging behavior and pose threats to human safety. It is illegal to feed bears in Montana. If you are attacked by a bear and you are without a deterrent or the deterrent hasn’t worked, stay face down on the ground, protecting your face and neck with your arms. Stay still until you’re certain the bear has moved away. People who hunt in places that have or may have grizzly bears—which includes areas of Montana west of Billings—should take special precautions: Carry bear spray and practice to be prepared to use it immediately. Look for bear sign and be cautious around creeks and areas with limited visibility. Hunt with a group of people. Making localized noise can help alert bears to your presence. Be aware that elk calls and cover scents can attract bears. Bring the equipment and people needed to help field dress game and remove the meat from the kill site as soon as possible. If you need to leave part of the meat in the field during retrieval, hang it at least 10 feet off the ground and at least 150 yards from the gut pile. Leave it where it can be observed from a distance of at least 200 yards. Upon your return, observe the meat with binoculars. If it has been disturbed or if a bear is in the area, leave and call FWP. Grizzly bears in the lower 48 states are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act. Management authority for grizzlies rests with the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, working closely in Montana with FWP, the Forest Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the U.S. Geological Survey, Wildlife Services, and Native American tribes. This collaboration happens through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee . For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware .

Fishing will close starting Oct. 1 for sections of the Big Hole, Ruby and Beaverhead rivers to protect trout during spawning season. The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission adopted emergency fishing regulations in June in response to struggling fish populations in the three rivers. These restrictions limit fall angling during the brown trout spawning season in some stretches of the rivers. Trout abundances in several areas of the three rivers have steadily declined since 2011 and are at or near historical lows . Meanwhile, fishing pressure in these areas has increased. The emergency fishing regulations aim to be responsive to fish populations in accordance with Montana’s draft statewide fisheries management plan. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is also beginning new research with Montana State University to better understand and manage trout mortality, recruitment and health. The current fishing regulations for the three rivers are as follows: Big Hole River Entire river Catch and release for Arctic grayling Headwaters to Dickie Bridge Combined trout: five daily and in possession, no size restriction Dickie Bridge to the mouth Open April 1 through Sept. 30 Catch and release only Artificial lures and single-pointed hooks only. No treble or double hooks. Anglers may remove treble or double hooks from the lure and replace them with a single hook, or the shanks may be cut off the other hook points to leave a single hook. Lures with multiple hook attachments may still be used but any treble hook must be replaced by a single hook. Beaverhead River Entire river Catch and release for rainbow trout Brown trout: five fish daily and in possession, all fish must be less than 18 inches, except for Clark Canyon Dam to High Bridge Fishing Access Site (see special regulations below) Artificial lures and single-pointed hooks only. No treble or double hooks. Anglers may remove treble or double hooks from the lure and replace them with a single hook, or the shanks may be cut off the other hook points to leave a single hook. Lures with multiple hook attachments may still be used but any treble hook must be replaced by a single hook. Clark Canyon Dam to Pipe Organ Bridge Open third Saturday in May through Sept. 30 Clark Canyon Dam to High Bridge FAS Catch and release for trout High Bridge FAS to Henneberry FAS Closed to float fishing by nonresidents and float outfitting on each Saturday from the third Saturday in May through Labor Day Henneberry FAS to Pipe Organ Bridge Closed to float fishing by nonresidents and float outfitting on each Sunday from the third Sunday in May through Labor Day Barretts Diversion to the mouth Open April 1 through Sept. 30 Catch and release for trout Highway 91 South Bridge (Tash Bridge) to Selway Bridge Closed to float outfitting from the third Saturday in May through Labor Day Ruby River Upstream from Ruby Reservoir Combined trout: all may be cutthroat trout Downstream from Ruby Dam Catch and release for rainbow trout. Angling is closed the entire year just below Ruby Dam, from its confluence with Ruby Dam outlet channel upstream to the dam, including the outlet channel. From Ruby Dam to Alder Bridge (Ruby Island FAS) Catch and release for brown trout Open April 1 through Sept. 30 From Alder Bridge (Ruby Island FAS) to the mouth Brown trout: one daily and in possession, must be less than 18 inches For more information, visit fwp.mt.gov/fish .

UMW Sports Press Release The Montana Western volleyball team (15-1, 2-0) rolled to a 3-0 (25-18, 25-22, 25-22) sweep of the Carroll College Saints (5-13, 0-2) tonight. “I think that the team did great tonight. Obviously with Peyton going down, we had to have someone really step up. I think Jaiden did a great job with that,” Head Coach Katie Lovett said. “We had a lot of different opportunities for freshman to step into some different roles out on the court. I feel that they did a really good job so it is exciting for not only this game here but for the future of our program.” How it Happened The Bulldogs hit .250 in the first set and held Carroll to a .068 mark led by four early kills from sophomore right-side Jordan Olson to take the one set lead at 15-12. A kill from Jazi Smith and a block from the pair of Jaiden Perez and KayLee Kopp pushed the Bulldogs over to take set one 25-18. Unlike the first set, Carroll jumped out to an 8-3 lead. Kills from Danyel Martin and Kaitlyn Van Well closed the gap to just a point. An ace from Kaylee Fritz pushed UMW back out in front and the Bulldogs never turned back. Western went on to take set two 25-22. The third frame saw the Bulldogs surge to a massive 14-3 lead early on. Carroll followed with their own 10-1 scoring run to bring the game within just two points. Despite the comeback, the Saints struggled to hang on and the Bulldogs ended the game at 25-22. Notables • The last time the Bulldogs swept the Saints was back on September 23, 2005 when the Bulldogs downed Carroll on the road. The last home sweep over the Saints was back in 2002. • As a team, UMW served their way to five aces. • Fritz led the Bulldogs on the night, putting up 25 assists, 15 digs, and an ace. • Smith led the Bulldogs on offense, totaling 11 kills with a .308 hitting percentage. She also added 13 digs. • Freshman middle Perez stepped up in the matchup, recording her first two blocks of her career at UMW. Up Next The Bulldogs hit the road for the next three matchups. They first travel to Billings this Friday, September 29 to take on (RV) Rocky Mountain College (12-6, 1-0). The last time the two teams faced, the Bulldogs won 3-1.

STREET & ALLEY COMMITTEE MEETING ~ AGENDA ~ Monday, October 2nd , 2023 4:00PM 1. Call to Order 2. Discuss/Recommend Parking Lot at Depot Park 3. Trail’s Coalition Update 4. Public Comment on Items Not Agenda but Within The Jurisdiction of The City 5. Adjournment Committee Members Dan Nye, Chair Don Hand Russ Schwandt

Isaac Steve Sturgeon, 34, of Dillon, Montana, and a man from Pennsylvania were sentenced in the district of Columbia on Tuesday, Sept. 26, 2023 , on several felony and misdemeanor charges, including assaulting law enforcement, related to their actions during the Jan. 6. 2021, breach of the US Capitol. Isaac Steve Sturgeon, 34, of Dillon, Montana, was sentenced to 72 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution. DOJ Release U.S. District Court Judge Royce C. Lamberth sentenced both Bingert and Sturgeon. Judge Lamberth convicted the pair following a bench trial on May 24, 2023, of seven charges, including obstruction of an official proceeding; assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers; civil disorder, all felonies; entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds; disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds; engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds; and engaging in an act of physical violence in the grounds or any of the Capitol buildings. According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, Bingert and Sturgeon traveled separately from their respective hometowns to Washington, D.C., to attend the “Stop the Steal” rally on Jan. 6, 2021, and later marched toward the U.S. Capitol building. Acting independently, the two made their way onto restricted grounds of the Capitol and joined the mob on the West Front, at the base of the inaugural stage. Soon, the mob reached its full strength, violently breaking down the police line and forcing the officers to retreat. After the officers were forced up the southwest stairs under the scaffolding, Bingert and Sturgeon followed only minutes later. The duo then climbed through the inaugural stage scaffolding, up the southwest stairs, and made their way to the front of the mob at the top of the stairs, where police had formed a line behind a row of bike racks being used as a barricade to defend the Capitol. At approximately 2:45 p.m., Bingert and Sturgeon stood side-by-side directly in front of the bike racks and police at the top of the southwest stairs. The pair, along with others, grabbed the metal bike rack in front of them and pushed it hard against the police, resulting in injury to at least one officer. Both men remained on the Upper West Terrace for at least two hours after this assault, watching the brutal attacks on the police occurring on the Lower West Terrace below them. They both remained on restricted grounds until they were forcibly removed by police. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and the Eastern District of New York. The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, which identified Bingert as AFO #105 and Sturgeon as AFO #104 on their seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Philadelphia and New York Field Offices, the Joint Terrorism Task Force Kenya, as well as the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Capitol Police. In the 32 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,100 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 396 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

Press Release U.S. Attorney's Office, District of Montana MISSOULA — A Dillon man who admitted to recording himself having sex with a minor girl on multiple occasions was sentenced today to 18 years and four months in prison, to be followed by 20 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Blaine Anthony Thomas Burger, 20, pleaded guilty in March to production of child pornography. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. In a plea agreement filed in the case, the parties agreed that the evidence established the commission of two additional counts of production of child pornography involving two additional Jane Does, and that the agreement would be treated as if Burger had been convicted of the additional counts for purposes of calculating his recommended sentencing guideline range. “Burger’s violent, perverse and destructive conduct caused a lifetime of damage to these girls. He built trust and developed relationships with them, and then abused and sexually exploited them for his own gratification. Protecting children from predatory conduct, like Burger’s, and holding offenders accountable remains a top priority for our office,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. The government alleged in court documents that Burger preyed on three underage girls, torturing two of the girls, convincing both that he cared for them, and blackmailing a third girl until she sent him nude images of herself. Between October 2021 and May 1, 2022 in Dillon, Burger was in a dating relationship with Jane Doe 1, who was under the age of 18. On April 30, 2022, Jane Doe 1 told law enforcement that she had been in an abusive sexual relationship with Burger for the last several months. Jane Doe 1 further disclosed that Burger had sex with her on multiple occasions, recorded them having sex on his phone and kept the videos. When interviewed, Burger admitted to having sex with Jane Doe 1 more than 10 times after he learned that she was underage. Burger further admitted he had naked pictures of Jane Doe 1 on his phone. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Burger’s phone and recovered three videos that were recorded by Burger and depict him having sexual intercourse with Jane Doe 1. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office, Dillon Police Department, Helena Police Department and FBI conducted the investigation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .

The Big hole Valley Historical Society will be at The Bookstore on Saturday, September 30th from 1:00-3:00 to celebrate the release of Volume 2 of the history book. They will be signing copies of The Big Hole Valley: Montana Pioneers, Families, Memories and Stories 1930-2000. This book is dedicated to all those that have taken the time to share their lives and memories of life in this beautiful, challenging valley. The dedication goes further encouraging people to treasure the written stories, diaries and letters they have in their families. They tell the reader that they are in need of help to continue documenting, gathering and researching stories as a continuation of the history books and encourage people to join them on this rewarding journey. Volume 2 is filled with history, stories and photos. It shows all the ups and downs of living in a magnificent place, preserving this heritage for future generations. The proceeds from the book sales are reserved for a scholarship fund. Each year a $2000.00 scholarship is granted to a deserving student from the Big Hole area to help them with continuing education. The goal of the historical society is to give back, to invest in the future of the area. Please join us in celebrating the release of this long awaited volume. If you have any questions or would like to reserve a copy please call 683-6807.

The SW Montana Veterans Food Pantry and Services based out of Deer Lodge, will be in Dillon on Saturday, 10/14 from 2-4 pm at the Beaverhead County Fairgrounds in the 4-H building. We will be giving Food to any Veterans that can show veteran status. They just need their DD-214, VA card, military ID, or veteran designation on driver's license. If anyone has any questions or concerns, please call Susan 406-846-4777 (pantry) or 406-210-1914 (cell)

Caleb Igo FFA teacher Good afternoon, The Beaverhead FFA had a great outing Tuesday at the Ruby Valley Invitational judging contests held in Sheridan. 35 Beaverhead FFA members competed in Livestock Judging, Range Science, and Forestry events. Results are as follows: Senior Range & Soils: 1st place team consisting of Faye Holland (1st individual), Clancy Setzer (3rd individual), Tel Holland, and Brekken Venn. Caden Morrisroe was 3rd place individual novice range judger. Forestry: 1st place team consisting of Andy Egan (1st place individual), Ryleigh Plovanic, Jon Peterson, & Kyle Jones. Other members participating were Scarlett Garrison, Ty Ciocarlan, and Bridger Kemph. Junior Livestock Judging: 1st place team consisting of Eli Johnson (3rd place individual), Madison Ward, Kenndyl Meine, & Bridget Lovaas. Other members competing were Ashlyn Burk, Winona Wagoner, William Barcomb, James Seidensticker, Morgan Heiland, Guy Holt, Aven Pflieger, Cole Ciocarlan, Athan Graham, and Tearsa Mangels. Senior Livestock Judging: 2nd place team consisting of Savanna Freitas (4th place individual), Katie Johnson (8th place individual), Parker Dixon, and Tucker Sitz. Other members competing were Rowdy Mattison, Taylor Yecny, Asher Burch, Clinton Ford, Samantha George, Cole Webster, and Porter Hopman. Overall another great day for Beaverhead FFA members, thanks for taking the time to read! Thanks, Caleb

The Montana Youth Challenge Academy, in partnership with the Montana National Guard 1-189th (General Support Aviation Battalion) and the University of Montana Western, will be hosting an educator airlift event on Wednesday, October 11, 2023. This event provides Montana high school administrators, counselors, and staff an opportunity to tour MYCA/UMW facilities, observe cadets and staff, and learn more about the Challenge Model of youth development and UMW’s Experience One program. Attendees will be flying in from locations across the state including the cities of: Kalispell, Missoula, Great Falls, Helena, Butte, Billings, Miles City, and Bozeman. The purpose of this event is to create statewide partnerships so that MYCA can better support Montana’s youth. Please be aware that military helicopters will be flying in and out of the Dillon airport on October 11. For more information, please contact the Montana Youth Challenge Academy at 406-960-4424.

FINANCE COMMITTEE MEETING September 28 th , 2023 3:00 PM ~ AGENDA ~ 1. Approval of September 2023 Claims 2. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on The Agenda And Within The Jurisdiction of The City 3. Adjournment Committee Members: Don Hand, Chairperson Dan Nye Russ Schwandt

PARKS COMMITTEE MEETING City Council Chambers Wednesday September 27th, 2023 4:00 P.M. AGENDA 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. BeThe Change 406 Coalition Update 3. Presentation/Discussion of Possible Bike Park 4. Update/Discussion of Security Cameras at Parks 5. Discussion of Various Park Improvement Projects/Prioritize Projects for 2023/2024. 6. Discussion of Non Profit Community Groups Adopting Parks 7. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the City. 8. Adjourn Parks Committee Members: Stephen Sievert (Chair); Mary Jo O’Rourke; Diane Armstrong