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The end of Montana's Biggest Weekend was held today with the annual Dillon Jaycees Parade through the streets of Dillon. We were able to get both photos and video of today's parade. Click on image for full size

The Ranch Rodeo and Women's Triathlon was held September 1, 2023 at 5:00 pm. Local ranchers and ranch hands competed to show off the skills they use everyday on the ranch. The teams showed off their skills of roping, branding, and other ranch activities. The ladies competed in a triathlon that included roping a steer, barrel racing and finishing it off with goat tying. They had a choice between a smaller goat or they could shave a few seconds off their time by taking on the goat known as "Big Nasty." 1st Place - Riverbed (30 pts) 2nd Place - Selkirk (25 pts) 3rd Place - Rebel (22 pts) 4th Place - Taylor (19pts) Women Tri 1st Place - Cate Hirschy 2nd Place - Brooke Hirschy 3rd - Tavy Leno 4th- jessi Farr Click on image for full size

UMW Sports Press Release LA GRANDE, Ore. — The Montana Western Football team opened the 2023 season with a 38- 14 victory over the Eastern Oregon University Mounties. “Really proud of the effort the team gave. It was not the cleanest game we could play, but we stayed the course, learned from mistakes and made it happen,” Head Coach Ryan Nourse commented. “We are impressed with how well our new players played; it bodes well for us as a team. We will need to improve over the next week and this win gives us a chance at it.” How It Happened Eastern Oregon moved the ball early on the Bulldogs in the first quarter, driving down the field and running seven minutes off the clock. Despite the drive, the Bulldogs were the first to put points on the board after UMW kicker John Mears put a 20-yard field goal through the uprights. The Bulldogs wasted little time in the second quarter as quarterback Michael Palandri connected with receiver Jon Kirkley for the Bulldogs’ first touchdown of the season. Though unable to score, the Bulldog defense showed its veteran leadership as they continued to shut down the Mounties throughout the second quarter. Bryer Monson recorded his second sack of the game on fourth down to force the end of a five-minute EOU drive and head into the half on a positive note. Once settled in, Palandri and the Bulldog offense began to click. Palandri connected with redhisrt freshman Dylan Shipley on the first play of the second half for an 81-yard touchdown pass. The Bulldogs scored on the following possession after Palandri threaded the needle to freshman receiver Eli Nourse for his first career touchdown reception, stretching the lead to 24-0. Despite the deficit, the Mounties were able to string together a scoring drive to bring the score to 24-7 heading into the fourth quarter. Following an unsuccessful first drive of the fourth quarter for the Bulldogs, linebacker Braden Smith intercepted EOU’s Quincy Glasper on UMW’s 40-yard line, sparking the UMW offense and special teams. Palandri quickly connected with Kirkley in the back of the end zone for his second touchdown reception of the game. The following kickoff took a Bulldog bounce and was recovered by freshman Landon Charlton. Three plays later, redshirt freshman Jake Humphrey punched it in for the final Bulldog touchdown of the game. EOU capped off the scoring with an 18-yard touchdown pass from Glasper. Montana Western held the Mounties on their final drive, which featured Monson’s third sack of the game. The Bulldogs claimed victory by a score of 38-14. Notables • The Bulldogs amassed a total of 433 yards, with Palandri throwing for 329 yards. His career high featured 17 out of 26 pass completions, four touchdowns, and one interception. • Shipley led the Bulldog receiving corps with four receptions for 104 receiving yards and one touchdown. Kirkley picked up two touchdowns on 79 yards. • Defensively, Monson had a day after totaling seven tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss with three sacks and forcing EOU to a loss of 20 yards. • UMW kicker John Mears was a perfect 5-5 on PATs and hit a 20-yard field goal for the Bulldogs. Up Next The Bulldogs hit the road again for their first conference matchup of the season. They will be taking on the No. 12 ranked College of Idaho in Caldwell next weekend. The Bulldogs enter the matchup 1-0 and the Yotes enter 2-0 on the season.

The Dillon Jaycees held their annual Labor Day Weekend PRCA Rodeo on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. Saturday's rodeo was held in front of a standing room only crowd. The rodeo got underway with a special tribute to Rooster Reynold's with a video memorial of his life after the video was over a lone steer walked through the arena. The rodeo started off with the wild horse saddle event followed by steer wrestling and all the other rodeo sports one would expect. Results of this weekend rodeo are as follows: All-around cowboy: Christopher Callaway, $1,748, steer wrestling and team roping. Bareback riding: 1. Trevar McAllister, 85 points on Brookman Rodeo's Big Enough, $1,948; 2. Spur Owens, 83.5, $1,476; 3. Ty Owens, 83, $1,063; 4. Sam Petersen, 82.5, $708; 5. Tristan Hansen, 82, $413; 6. Jake Kesl, 80, $295. Steer wrestling: 1. Colton Mooney, 3.7 seconds, $2,011; 2. Kyle Callaway, 3.8, $1,748; 3. Bridger Chambers, 3.9, $1,486; 4. Ty Erickson, 4.1, $1,224; 5. Will Powell, 4.3, $962; 6. (tie) Jake Nelson and Ethan Stensrud, 4.4, $568 each; 8. Luke Gee, 4.5, $175. Team roping: 1. Nelson Wyatt/Chase Tryan, 4.2 seconds, $2,705 each; 2. (tie) Sid Sorge/Taner Sorge and Aaron Tsinigine/Ryan Motes, 4.7, $2,227 each; 4. Brodi Jones/Dylin Ahlstrom, 4.9, $1,750; 5. Travis Stovall/Kyle DeSaveur, 5.1, $1,591; 6. Radley Day/Jared Bilby, 5.5, $1,432; 7. Chris Francis/Cade Passig, 5.8, $1,273; 8. Cash Duty/Sid Sporer, 6.2, $1,114; 9. Casey Waldhauser/Dustin Ostrum, 10.2, $955; 10. Gunner Plenty/Mason Trollinger, 10.6, $636. Saddle bronc riding: 1. Tanner Butner, 86 points on Sankey Pro Rodeo & Phenom Genetics' Sunday Best, $2,064; 2. Liam Pauley, 85, $1,583; 3. Jesse Kruse, 81.5, $1,170; 4. Chase Brooks, 77, $757; 5. Cody Faulkner, 74, $482; 6. Kain Stroh, 72, $344; 7. Judd Applegate, 71, $275; 8. Cade Costello, 70, $206. Tie-down roping: 1. Riley Pruitt, 8.3 seconds, $2,411; 2. Justin Parke, 8.4, $2,096; 3. Ladd King, 9.4, $1,782; 4. Ben Ayre, 9.9, $1,467; 5. Macon Murphy, 10.0, $1,153; 6. Marcos Costa, 10.2, $838; 7. Garrett Busby, 10.4, $524; 8. (tie) Kevin Peterson and Nathan Ruth, 10.9, $105 each. Barrel racing: 1. Hailey Garrison, 17.34 seconds, $2,053; 2. Tammy Carpenter, 17.37, $1,760; 3. (tie) Keyla Costa and Hayle Gibson, 17.50, $1,369 each; 5. (tie) Jamie Martin and Tayla Moeykens, 17.70, $880 each; 7. Manchi Nace, 17.74, $587; 8. Casey Wagner, 17.77, $391; 9. Kailey Mitton, 17.81, $293; 10. Tia Murphy, 17.82, $196. Bull riding: * 1. Gavin Knutson, 54 points on Painted Pony Championship Rodeo's Universal Media Red Top, $6,510; no other qualified rides. *(all totals include ground money). Click on image for full size.

A full gallery of this mornings barrel racing and pole bending events. If anyone has a list of the winners send it to southwesternmtnews@gmail.com so we can update this article with them getting the proper recognition. Be sure to click on the image for full size.

We made it down this morning to cover some of the arena events going on at Harry Andrus Arena. We will have a photo gallery of the Pole Bending and Barrel races up shortly.

The Beaverhead County Fair is in full swing and we have been out capturing all the fun down at the fairgrounds. The fair will run all weekend and we will have more coverage all weekend long. Tomorrow activities are as follows: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 (Buildings Open 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.) 8:00 a.m. Saturday Arena Events, Harry Andrus Arena (Entries close at 5 p.m. Thursday) 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Morgan Seymour 12:00 p.m.*4-H & FFA Livestock Sale Buyer’s Barbeque, Lundberg Show Ring 2:30 p.m. *4-H & FFA Market Livestock Sale 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Katie Hall 7:00 p.m. *Silent Auction Bids End, 4-H Building 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. *4-H Silent Auction - pick up articles in 4-H Building 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Rabbit Check Out 7:30 p.m. Dillon Jaycees PRCA Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena (Tickets available online at www.dillonjaycees.com) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. *Check-out of all Companion Animals

BOZEMAN – An angler killed a grizzly bear in self-defense this week in the Tom Miner Basin. The encounter happened on Aug. 30 on private land along Tom Miner Creek. Two anglers were walking through dense vegetation when they were charged by a grizzly bear. One of the anglers shot and killed the bear. No people were injured. The bear’s behavior was likely defensive in the surprise, close encounter. The bear was an adult male grizzly. This incident is still under investigation. 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 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. 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 areas of Montana west of Billings—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. This collaboration happens through the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee . For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware .

DVFD responded to 17 calls for service during the month of August 2023. 08-02 E Glendale St Gas Odor 08-02 E Bannack St Gas Odor 08-03 W Center EMS Assist 08-03 Hwy 91 S Fire Alarm 08-05 Hwy 91 S Fire Alarm 08-09 N Dakota Electrical Alarm 08-11 N Railroad Public Assist 08-14 I-15 N MM 52 MVA 08-15 N Pacific Fire Alarm 08-16 Reynolds Dr EMS Assist 08-16 I-15 S MM 63 MVA 08-16 4200 Bannack Fire Alarm 08-20 725 N Walnut Gas Odor 08-25 N Interchange MVA 08-26 Hwy 91 N MVA 08-29 Laknar Ln Fire Alarm 08-29 S Dakota Gas Odor First Responder Trauma was our focus for the month of August. We held a First Responder Trauma Dinner & it was very well attended. Over 80 First Responders from Dispatch & Detention, EMS, Fire, Sheriff’s Office, Police Department and Search & Rescue. This was sponsored by High Peaks Federal Credit Union, Stockman Bank, Bank of Commerce, Pioneer Federal Savings & Loan, UMW Foundation & Dillon Jaycees. We would like to thank the sponsors as well as all the First Responders for making this important issue a priority.

HELENA – As grizzly bear populations and distribution increase across Montana, it’s more important than ever to be bear aware. Currently, grizzly bears can be found in all of Montana west of Billings. To encourage residents and nonresidents to be vigilant about the presence of bears, Gov. Greg Gianforte proclaimed September as Bear Aware Month , and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will host several education events and opportunities that will feature fun activities, prizes and giveaways, such as stickers and can koozies. These events include: Aug. 31 and Sept. 14, Columbia Falls Community Market Sept. 5, Great Falls, FWP Region 4 Office Sept. 7, Missoula, FWP Region 2 Office Sept. 7, Billings, FWP Region 5 Office Sept. 7, Miles City, FWP Region 7 Office Sept. 11, Bozeman, FWP Region 3 Office Sept. 26, Helena, Montana WILD Sept. 27, Butte, Montana Tech For more details about these and other events and activities, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware . Grizzly bear numbers continue to increase, and grizzlies are becoming more widespread in Montana, increasing the likelihood that residents and recreationists will encounter them in more places each year. Bears also become more active in late summer and fall as they spend more time eating in preparation for hibernation. There are four grizzly recovery zones partially or completely within Montana: The Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (in parts of southwestern Montana, northwestern Wyoming and eastern The Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (in northwestern Montana) grizzly bear population has increased from approximately <400 bears in 1975 to approximately 1,100 and has reached population recovery goals. The Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem (in portions of northwestern Montana and northern Idaho) The Bitterroot Ecosystem (in western Montana and northern Idaho). In the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, which covers parts of southwestern Montana, northwestern Wyoming and eastern Idaho, the grizzly bear population has increased from fewer than 200 bears in 1980 to approximately 1,000 and has reached population recovery goals. In the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem, grizzly bear population has increased from fewer than 400 bears in 1975 to approximately 1,100 and has reached population recovery goals. The Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem, with an estimated 55 bears, and the Bitterroot Ecosystem, with no known bears, have not yet met population recovery goals. “Grizzly bear recovery in the Greater Yellowstone Area and Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem is a major conservation success story,” said FWP Director Dustin Temple. “Working with the public and landowners to avoid conflict is a top priority and an critical part of bear management in Montana.” 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 . Avoiding conflicts with bears is easier than dealing with such conflicts. Here are some precautions to help residents, recreationists and people who work outdoors avoid negative bear encounters: Keep garbage, bird feeders, pet food and other attractants put away in a secure building or certified bear-resistant container. 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. Carry bear spray and be prepared to use it immediately. Travel in groups whenever possible and make casual noise, which can help alert bears to your presence. 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. For more information and resources on bear safety, visit fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware .

UMW Sports Press Release The University of Montana Western football team is set to kick off their 2023 campaign on the road with a game at Eastern Oregon this weekend. The Bulldogs enter the season picked to finish fourth in Frontier Conference play. To view the full preseason rankings, click here . The Bulldogs finished the 2022 season going 7-4 on the season and a perfect 4-0 on the last four games. After battling through a few tough losses in a row in the middle of the season, UMW finished the season on a high note. Of the final four wins, two of them were against nationally ranked teams. The Bulldogs will play ten games in total for the 2023 season, including games against first-time opponents Arizona Christian University and Lewis & Clark College. The Frontier Conference added Arizona Christian this season bringing the conference total to nine teams. Arizona Christian enters the season as the reigning Sooner Athletic Conference champions after going 7-2 in SAC conference play in 2022. All Frontier institutions' first games will not be counted in the conference standings, except for newcomer Arizona Christian University. The conference slate consists of eight games to accommodate the odd number of teams. Rounding out the schedule, the Bulldogs will face off with NCAA Division III first-time opponent Lewis & Clark College from Portland, Oregon. The Pioneers come off of a 2022 campaign where they finished the season 4-5 overall and 2-5 in conference play. The game will be on September 16th for the Bulldogs’ first home matchup. Offense The Bulldog offense in 2022 led the Frontier Conference with a total of 425 yards of offense per game, totaling 4,675 total offensive yards on the season. Competition for the quarterback position will remain strong through fall camp as the Bulldogs look to replace standout quarterback Jon Jund. Jund was a two-time Frontier Conference Offensive Player of the Year, AFCA All-American honorable mention, led the conference in passing yards per game (218.3) and passing touchdowns (22). He was tied for first overall in rushing touchdowns with nine. Michael Palandri and Kaden Jenks will be competing for the starting spot. Palandri, a redshirt sophomore, has shown excellent leadership, drive and athleticism across the spring. He served as the backup quarterback last season, recording 14 completions and 154 passing yards. Jenks, a senior transfer from Weber State, brings experience as a former starter in the Big Sky Conference along with outstanding quarterback skills. The Bulldog offense also graduated their three top receivers from the 2022 receiving corps; Trey Mounts (43 rec., 599 yards), who led the Bulldogs last season, Blake Sentman (39 rec., 423 yards) and Elijah Benedick (24 rec., 383 yards). The Red and Black will be looking to returning receivers Dylan Shipley (R-FR) and Isaiah Thomas (R-JR) to step up this season. Last season, senior Reese Neville led the way for the Bulldogs on the ground. The first-team all-conference running back led the conference in rushing yards and broke the single season rushing record for Montana Western. He rushed for a total of 1,065 yards on the season, averaging 6.6 yards per rush, 96.8 yard per game, and nine touchdowns in the season. Colten McPhee, a junior running back, returns this season after he was third on the team in rushing yards in 2022 with 364 in the season. They will also look to redshirt freshman Jake Humphrey, who will be fighting for significant playing time. Humphrey is an explosive athlete with outstanding speed and excellent open field skills. They will hope to count on Humphrey to make an impact in both the running and passing game. Though the loss of AFCA First Team All-American offensive lineman Noah Danielson will be felt, the Bulldogs return starters Marcus Lombard, a 6-1 redshirt junior, and Rocco Beccari, a 6-3 junior, to the offensive line. They will continue to help bring the leadership, physicality, work ethic and energy to the line. The Bulldogs also bring in 6-2 junior and Snow College transfer Eli Wells. Wells will be competing for a starting position on the offensive line, playing multiple positions and helping UMW to remain one of the top offensive line units in the Frontier Conference. Defense The Bulldog defense brings back unquestionable talent and leadership to the table this season. Returning are all-conference defensive line selections and captains Tanner Harrell and Reese Artz. Harrell, a 6-1 redshirt senior, earned all-conference honors last season after he totaled 50 tackles, 20 being solo. He was second in the conference in sacks with 8.5 total, third in the conference in tackles for loss with 12.5, and had 4.5 tackles per game. Artz, a 6-3 redshirt senior, also earned all-conference honors last fall after he totaled 58 tackles on the season, was fourth in the conference in sacks with seven, and tied for third in the conference in tackles for loss with 12.5. Linebackers Kameron Rauser and Braden Smith return this season. Last season, Rauser, a 6-0 senior, led the Bulldogs with 75 tackles, 39 of which were solo. He totaled eight tackles for loss, two interceptions, and three pass breakups. He will continue to be a tremendous field presence for the Bulldog defense throughout his senior season, leading as a captain for the second season in a row. Smith, a 6-3 redshirt senior, followed just behind Rauser last season with 63 tackles, seven tackles for loss, and three sacks. Jaden Amasiu and Braden Swank return for the 2023 season. Amasiu, a 5-11 senior, ranked fourth last season in tackles, compiling 54 tackles as a defensive back. Swank, a 5-11 junior, led the conference last season with 19 pass breakups and an impressive 52 tackles. Look for Swank and Amasiu to dominate the back field for the Bulldog defense. Transfers Kohl Hogan and D’on Williams join the Bulldogs this fall, adding to the depth of the Bulldog defense. Hogan, a 6-3 sophomore transfer from Snow College, earned a starting spot at linebacker this spring. He brings a ton of athleticism to the linebacker room and will increase the speed and playmaking ability of the UMW defense. Williams, a 5-10 redshirt freshman transfer from the University of Nevada, is a dynamic athlete who brings speed, physicality and will be competing for a starting position at safety. Special Teams The Bulldogs special teams will be returning redshirt junior kicker John Mears for the 2023 season. Mears, a redshirt sophomore kicker, was 42 for 47 on PATs last season. He was also 8 for 10 on field goals with a career long field goal of 46-yards made against Rocky Mountain in the final game of the season. Mears earned CSC Academic First Team All-America last season for his excellence on the field and in the classroom. Eddie Dewart and Angel Navarette also return this season for the Bulldogs special teams. Dewart, a sophomore punter, averaged 37.4 yards per punt last season and a total of 1,719 punt yards. Navarette, a sophomore kicker, will be the go-to for kickoffs again. He recorded 3,780 yards on kickoffs last season with an average of 56.4 yards per kick.

Montana Law Enforcement planning increased patrols in Dillon/Beaverhead County over the holiday weekend. Residents encouraged to plan for a sober ride home. Local law enforcement and the Montana Highway Patrol are increasing their presence and patrols during the Labor Day weekend Montana has the highest share of alcohol-related traffic deaths in the U.S. at 45%. In 2021, 63% of all fatalities were the result of impaired driving To ensure the safety of communities across Montana, law enforcement encourages residents to make a plan to get a sober ride home before they start drinking and celebrating during the Labor Day weekend Labor Day marks the end of the "100 Deadliest Days," the period where most traffic fatalities occur in Montana and nationwide August 29, 2023, Dillon, Mont. —As Labor Day weekend approaches, Dillon/Beaverhead County law enforcement agencies and the Montana Highway Patrol (MHP) are encouraging Montanans to plan a sober ride home before they celebrate. Labor Day weekend is the final three days of the "100 Deadliest Days," the period where most traffic fatalities occur. MHP will be increasing patrols across the state and making DUI arrests to ensure every Montanan gets home safely this holiday weekend. MHP and the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) are committed to reducing fatalities and severe injuries on Montana's roadways. According to MDT, if drivers have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 or higher, they could receive a DUI charge and other serious consequences, including having their driver's license revoked, being required to take mandatory classes, and receiving possible jail time, as well as up to $10,000 in fines and legal fees. "We want everyone to enjoy the holiday weekend, so make sure you plan for a sober ride home," said Jeremy Alvarez, Chief of Police, Dillon Police Department. "Labor Day weekend is full of travel and end-of-summer get-togethers. To make sure we're all able to have fun safely, start your weekend by making a plan. Whether you're hanging by the river or going to a BBQ always use a sober ride." MHP is on high alert during the holiday weekend because of Montana's sobering statistics: Montana has the highest fatality rates in the nation for the number of deaths caused by impaired drivers per vehicle mile traveled The state has the highest share of alcohol-related traffic deaths at 45% (2021) 63% of all traffic fatalities in Montana are the result of impaired driving (2021) 1,268 people were killed in crashes involving an alcohol-impaired driver from 2012-2021 "By designating a sober driver or using rideshare or taxi service, Sober Rides provided by Beaverhead County DUI Task Force, you're making our community safer," said Jeremy Alvarez, Chief of Police, Dillon Police Department. "Make sure you celebrate responsibly as you gather with friends and family for the end of summer. Together we can keep our community safe." Montana Department of Transportation — Vision Zero This is a Vision Zero message from the Montana Department of Transportation. This and other enforcement and educational campaigns are strategies to reach Vision Zero — zero deaths and zero serious injuries on Montana roadways. For more information about Vision Zero, contact Janet Kenny, Montana Department of Transportation, at 406-444-7417 orjakenny@mt.gov

It's the end of summer and that means it's time for Montana's Biggest Weekend. We have everything that is happening in and around Southwestern Montana in one convenient place. We will start with Wednesday as most of the festivities begin a little early this week. Wednesday, August 30 Beaverhead County Fair Book WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 30 (Buildings will be open after judging until 8 p.m.) 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. Commercial and Food Booth Set-up, Fairgrounds 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Judging of Open Class Entries, All Non-Animal Departments Noon - 8:00 p.m. *4-H Building Open for entries 3:00 p.m. *4-H Cat Show and Judging, 4-H Building 4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m * Check in of all 4-H, FFA, and Open Class Livestock (not including Poultry & Rabbits) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m Music on the Midway: Lindzy Neilson 6:30 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Open 4D Barrel Race Pop-up Art Show Pop-Up Art Show featuring art by Cory Birkenbuel and Jeremy Church. Please join us at Rocky Mountain Framing & Memorabilia from 12PM NOON to 8PM on August 30, 2023. We are kicking off Labor Day Weekend in style. Come support local artists and business in Downtown Dillon. Dillon - Free Health Insurance Help Facing changes to your Montana Medicaid or Healthy Montana Kids? Come chat with a Health Insurance Navigator for free assistance. We can help you understand your options, health plan and the marketplace - all for free. TRIVIA NIGHT! Needing a mid-week pick me up? Come on down to RVB for a fun game of trivia. Every Wednesday night from 6-8 pm! You won't be disappointed! Thursday, August 31 Strong People exercise class Mondays and Thursdays - 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. (nominal fee) Low impact core strengthening workout for young and old. Come in and change your life! The community is invited to attend an Open House event on Thursday, August 31, 2023, from 2:00 - 6:00 p.m. at the Learning and Career Center at the University of Montana Western , located in the basement of the Lucy Carson Library. Please join us to learn about the tutoring services provided to students at Montana Western, meet our staff, and enjoy refreshments. THURSDAY, AUGUST 31 (Buildings Open 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.) 8:00 a.m. *4-H, FFA & Open Market Swine Judging followed by Swine Showmanship Class 8:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m. *4-H Building Exhibits Entry (NO entries accepted after 8:00 p.m. or on Friday morning) 1:00 p.m. *4-H, FFA & Open Market Beef Judging followed by Beef Showmanship Class 1:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. *4-H & Open Poultry & Rabbits Entry (NO entries accepted after 8:00 p.m. or on Friday morning) 2:00 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Team Break-Away Roping 5:00 p.m. *4-H, FFA & Open Market Sheep Judging followed by Sheep Showmanship Class 5:00 p.m. Entries close for Saturday Arena Events 6:00 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Team Roping Classic, Harry Andrus Arena 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Steve Rose Complimentary Rides Throughout the Labor Day Weekend from Thursday, August 31 - Sunday, September 3rd, from 4pm-2am, residents and visitors can avail themselves of free rides. This service is made possible through the generous support of our local sponsors: Pioneer Federal Savings and Loan, The Dillon Jaycees, Vigilante Electric Co-Op, the Beaverhead County DUI Prevention Task Force who are committed to the safety of the community. For more information about the program, please visit our website at, or contact: Maria Emmer-Aanes Free Sober Rides Campaign Manager Beaverhead County DUI Prevention Task Force mariaemmeraanes@gmail.com 360.255.3801 Classic Car and Motorcycle Cruise-In The Sheridan Cruise-In is back! CLASSIC CARS AND MOTORCYCLE - MUSIC - FOOD - FARMERS MARKET AND LOTS OF FAMILY FUN! Come show off your classic cars or motorcycles every Thursday and enjoy an evening in our beautiful town of Sheridan, MT. Whether you are interested in cars or just a passer-by, come hang with us! This is a free event to all. Please pass on the good word and we look forward to lining Main Street with some old time classics! In case of inclement weather, we will post any changes on FaceBook. Or you can call in at the brewery for update...(406)842-5977. Montana Exit at the Bale of Hay Saloon Music on the patio! Friday, September 1 Breakfast at the Dillon Elks Lodge Join us for breakfast at the Dillon Elks Lodge. This is a favorite event over Labor Day and we look forward to serving you! FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1 (Buildings Open 10:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m.) 7:00 a.m.*4-H Breeding Sheep, Breeding Beef, and Breeding Hog Interviews 9:00 a.m.*Judging of 4-H & Open Poultry & 4-H Poultry Showmanship *Interview Judging of all 4-H Building Exhibits - Building closed during interview judging. 9:30 a.m. *4-H and Open Breeding Beef, Sheep, Swine, and Dairy Judging. Show schedule determined by Superintendents. 10:00 a.m.*Judging of 4-H Rabbits & 4-H Rabbit Showmanship 10:00 a.m Beaverhead County Fair Team Branding, Harry Andrus Arena 11:00 a.m. Judging of Open Class Rabbits 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Steve Rose 1:00 - 5:00 p.m. Rangeland Plants Exhibit & Identification Contest, Sponsored by Beaverhead Conservation District 2:00 p.m.*4-H Round Robin Showmanship Contest, Lundberg Show Ring 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Lindzy Neilson 4:00 p.m.*FFA Livestock Judging Clinic 5:00 p.m. Beaverhead County Fair Ranch Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena 7:00 p.m. *Silent Auction Bids start, 4-H Building (bidding continues to 7 p.m. Saturday) Labor Day Events at the Dillon Elks Lodge Join us at the Dillon Elks Lodge for several Labor Day events! - Bar & Lounge open - Breakfast Friday and Saturday nights from 11pm to 3am - Live Music by Wayne Brothers Band plus a street dance Friday & Saturday 7pm to 11pm - Jaycee Calcutta 11pm Saturday night - Bloody Marys and Mimosas served from 8am to close on Monday before the parade Street Dance & Live music by the Wayne Brothers Band Street dance and live music by the Wayne Brothers Band. Co-sponsored by the Dillon Elks Lodge and the Dillon Tap House Saturday, September 2 Dillon Farmers Market Join us every Saturday from June 24 through September 16 on Washington Street by Jaycee Park! Labor Day Events at the Dillon Elks Lodge Join us at the Dillon Elks Lodge for several Labor Day events! - Bar & Lounge open - Breakfast Friday and Saturday nights from 11pm to 3am - Live Music by Wayne Brothers Band plus a street dance Friday & Saturday 7pm to 11pm - Jaycee Calcutta 11pm Saturday night - Bloody Marys and Mimosas served from 8am to close on Monday before the parade SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 2 (Buildings Open 10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.) 8:00 a.m. Saturday Arena Events, Harry Andrus Arena (Entries close at 5 p.m. Thursday) 12:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Morgan Seymour 12:00 p.m.*4-H & FFA Livestock Sale Buyer’s Barbeque, Lundberg Show Ring 2:30 p.m. *4-H & FFA Market Livestock Sale 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. Music on the Midway: Katie Hall 7:00 p.m. *Silent Auction Bids End, 4-H Building 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. *4-H Silent Auction - pick up articles in 4-H Building 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Rabbit Check Out 7:30 p.m. Dillon Jaycees PRCA Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena (Tickets available online at www.dillonjaycees.com) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. *Check-out of all Companion Animals Sunday, September 3 SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 (Buildings Open 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. for entry pick-up/check-out) 7:30 a.m. PRCA Slack 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 4-H Building Check-out 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Open Exhibits Check-out. PLEASE PICK UP YOUR EXHIBITS. ALL EXHIBITS MUST BE PICKED UP. THANKS FOR YOUR COOPERATION. 9:00 a.m. *All 4-H, FFA & Open Livestock pens (hogs, sheep, beef, goats, etc.) need to be cleaned by 9:00 a.m. No Exceptions. 2:00 p.m. Dillon Jaycees PRCA Rodeo, Harry Andrus Arena (Tickets available online at www.dillonjaycees.com) 8:30 p.m. Dillon Jaycees Concert, Harry Andrus Arena Montana’s Biggest Weekend Labor Day Concert Ian Munsick live in concert! Labor Day Events at the Dillon Elks Lodge Join us at the Dillon Elks Lodge for several Labor Day events! - Bar & Lounge open - Breakfast Friday and Saturday nights from 11pm to 3am - Live Music by Wayne Brothers Band plus a street dance Friday & Saturday 7pm to 11pm - Jaycee Calcutta 11pm Saturday night - Bloody Marys and Mimosas served from 8am to close on Monday before the parade Monday, September 4 Dillon Jaycees Labor Day Parade this years theme is Cartoon Crazy Begins at 10 am

Twenty-five civic minded businessmen including first officers Frank Hazelbaker, Frank Eilel and J.H. Gilbert started Dillon’s Rotary Club on July 1, 1922. These men firmly believed in following the club’s moto of “Service Above Self”, which is also reflected today in our added 5-way test: • Is it the TRUTH? • Is it FAIR to all Concerned? • Will it build GOOD WILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? • Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned? • And IS IT FUN? Rotary International has expanded significantly since those days with Rotary Clubs currently active in over 200 countries world-wide, including 1.4 million members. The intent of Rotary includes promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, improving education, and growing local economies. Rotary International’s hallmark acclaim has been their Partnership in the eradication of Polio worldwide. We have made a lot of progress for Dillon as well as contributing to our surrounding community, state, country, and world since those early businessmen established the Dillon Club. Keeping it local is our most rewarding effort. Currently our energy and services to the Dillon Community include: • Hosting our Dillon Rotary Annual Ice Melt Contest fund raiser. • 14 metal benches to the Friends of Jaycee Park Association. • Trees for the Dillon walking and bike trails. • Several annual college scholarships to local High School graduates. • House number signs in support of our local Emergency Services. • Facilitators of the Craig Rehm Memorial Fund in support to UMW Business Students. • BBQ food service in support of local Veteran and Concert events. • Corn Dog service to the local kids Halloween Fall Fest. In 2022 & 2023, added efforts are being steered toward developing younger membership growth, and a local presence in “Greater Youth Environmental Partnerships”. Current membership reflects the progress we have made. The Dillon Rotary Club meets at noon on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday in the Guild Hall of St. James Episcopal Church, located at 203 East Glendale Street. Visitors are welcome to attend, and anyone interested in learning more about the Rotary organization is invited to be a guest for lunch. To attend our meetings, feel free to contact us. For more information about the Rotary Club email Gary Lorenzen at 406-683-2552

KALISPELL — A pair of Whitefish men killed a grizzly bear in self-defense last weekend in the Whitefish Range north of Whitefish. One of the individuals was injured in an accidental shooting during the encounter. The man was taken to the hospital and treated for a gunshot wound to the shoulder. The two men were scouting for hunting season near Smokey Range Trailhead off Canyon Creek Road on the Flathead National Forest on the afternoon of Aug. 26 when they encountered a female grizzly bear with a cub. The men were walking through a thick section of forest when they surprised the bears inside of 15 feet. The adult bear charged the individuals, and both men shot and killed the bear. One of the men was shot in the back shoulder during the incident. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks game wardens and members of the Wildlife Human Attack Response Team responded and investigated the incident. The bear’s behavior appeared to be defensive in the surprise, close encounter with the two men. FWP shared the initial findings with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service law enforcement, and the USFWS concurred it was a self-defense situation. The grizzly bear did not have a history of conflict and was previously tagged for population monitoring work in 2009. The bear was approximately 25 years old. FWP continues to monitor the site for the cub. Be bear aware Montana is bear country. 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. Travel in groups whenever possible and make casual noise, which can help alert bears to your presence. 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. 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. Hunting in places that have or may have grizzly bears — which includes northwest Montana — requires 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 and where any noises you might make do not carry well. 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. Learn more at https://fwp.mt.gov/conservation/wildlife-management/bear .

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Riverside Contracting Inc. have substantially completed milling and paving operations on Interstate 15 (I 15). The week of August 28, crews will be performing bump grinding operations to smooth the surface of I 15. Traffic control is in place. Expect single-lane closures through the project area. Be prepared for delays before you leave, download MDT’s mobile app “MDT 511” or visit 511mt.net [511mt.net] and check your route. If you're driving and want to check in, pull safely off the road and dial 511. Tune in to local radio stations and watch for variable message signs along the route.

From Megan Conrow thenames of our students who were selected to All State Music! Congratulations to these students and thank you Mrs. Raffety and Mrs. Van Slyke for time and dedication that allows our students these wonderful opportunities! We are very proud of all of you! Band Micaiah Kizzar, Senior, Euphonium, All State Band Aubrey Hawley, Senior, Clarinet, All State Band Hailey Powell, Senior, Tuba, All State Orchestra Choir Mary Huxtable, All-State Honor Choir-Soprano 2 (Alternate 1) Olivia Kailey, All-State Honor Choir-Alto 1 Emma Lovaas, All-State Honor Choir-Alto 1 Kyrah Mitchell, All-State Honor Choir-Soprano 2 Kaycee Pilon, All-State Honor Choir-Alto 2 (Alternate 2) Christopher Valach, All-State Honor Choir-Tenor 1