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WISER RIVER, MT  – Due to dry fuels, gusty winds, and challenging topography, firefighting efforts yesterday were limited, and no strategic firing operations could be implemented. Fire activity was primarily driven by dry vegetation and alignment of strong winds with drainage features. High winds, reaching up to 40-50 mph associated with passing thunderstorms, caused dangerous fire behavior, especially in timbered areas with heavy “dead and downed” trees and numerous snags. The fire has advanced east across Sawlog Creek toward the footprint from the 2021 Alder Fire, with the 2021 Christensen Fire footprint located to the south. Crews, supported by helicopter operations, initially attacked the fire directly, but weather conditions prompted or necessitated disengagement in the afternoon. A brief period of gusty outflow winds and downdrafts prevented further suppression efforts. No precipitation fell in the area. An overnight infrared (IR) flight has not updated acreage estimates, but helicopter mapping yesterday afternoon estimated the fire at approximately 1,500 acres . Today’s focus is on securing the perimeter, mopping up hot spots, and extinguishing lingering heat in key areas, especially on the west side of the river. As a precaution, firefighters with engines will provide structure protection for private properties along the Big Hole River’s western flank. An inbound crew of 8 smokejumpers will assist in scouting and controlling inaccessible portions of the fire, helping to limit impacts to critical values, including private land and infrastructure. Fire investigators continue to determine the fire’s cause. Neither the Forest Service nor the BLM conducted prescribed burns in this area. The fire is burning mainly in sagebrush and Lodgepole pine timber, with high concentrations of dead and downed fuels in the mixed conifer forest on north-facing slopes, increasing hazards for firefighters. Public Safety Notice:  The BLM has issued a temporary closure for the Sawlog dispersed camping area  at the Big Hole River ford site. Detailed closure information is available on the InciWeb Sawlog Fire page  under the Closures tab. Photo Credit Terri Haverfield Photo Credit Terri Haverfield Photo Credit Terri Haverfield Photo Credit Terri Haverfield

DILLON, MT  – The CMMX Montana Motocross Series is taking over Stone Creek Raceway this weekend. Adventure seekers and racing fans alike are encouraged to head out to the raceway for a high-energy, heart-pounding experience as riders compete to set the best times. The races are scheduled to take place tomorrow, May 4th. Bring a chair and prepare for adrenaline-fueled action as racers soar and twist their way through challenging courses. Vendors will be on-site serving food and drinks, making it a great day for families, friends, and outdoor enthusiasts. With forecasted high temperatures around the high 60s, it’s the perfect way to enjoy springtime in Dillon, Montana. Whether you’re a hardcore racing fan or just looking for some outdoor fun, you won’t want to miss these exciting races. Race results and more information can be found here .

The Dillon Beavers fell to the Frenchtown Broncs 10-0 on Friday, as the visiting team showcased strong offensive and defensive performance. The Broncs opened the scoring early in the first inning when Ryan Lucier  hit a two-run homer to right field. They continued to build momentum in the bottom of the second, scoring five runs on three hits. Aspen Courtnet  doubled and drove in two runs, and Lucier followed with a center-field homer, scoring three more. The Broncs kept offensive pressure in the third inning, with Aspen Courtnet  grounded into a fielder's choice, scoring one run, and Maya Skinner  was hit by a pitch, also scoring in the inning. Adyson Creighton  started for Dillon and pitched two innings, giving up five hits and eight runs (all unearned), with three strikeouts and four walks. For Frenchtown, Ryan Lucier  was dominant on the mound, pitching five innings allowing just one hit and no runs, striking out 14 and walking one. Offensively, Bailey Blake  led the Beavers with one hit in two at-bats. On the other side, Courtnet and Lucier each had two hits for the Broncs. Lucier also led in RBIs with five, and the team recorded seven walks, showing patience at the plate. Delanie Magnuson  and Jezzy Palmer  each drew two walks. Defensively, Frenchtown was flawless, with no errors, and Aspen Courtnet  handling the most chances in the field with 14. The Dillon Beavers will host Stevensville  today at 1 for their next game, eager to bounce back from this loss.

DVFD responded to 13 calls for service during the month of April 2025.    4-2                   Antelope Dr                            Gas Odor 4-4                   Barnett St                                Chimney Fire 4-4                   I-15 MM 41                            Grass Fire 4-4                   N Interchange                         Trailer Fire 4-6                   Hirsch Ln                                Cooking Fire 4-09                 Anderson Ln                           Public Assist 4-16                 Gamblers Run                         Grass Fire 4-20                 Swenson Way                         Debris Fire 4-23                 Railroad                              Its Your Choice  Training** 4-23                 Buffalo Dr                               Fire Other 4-24                 Hwy 41                                   Fire Chicken House 4-25                 Fairway Dr                              Grass Fire 4-27                 I-15 MM 53                            MVA 4-28                 I-15 MM 59                            MVA                                                             Our April training included some members continuing to work on the Firefighter 1 class. Mental Health in first responder training with Heidi Peterson and Haley Hickcock. Medical training at Barrett Hospital, use of the stair chair, as well as familiarity of the ambulance components. We are gearing up for the upcoming wildland fire season.  Members also participated in “It’s Your Choice” distracted driving & impaired driving scenario for the BCHS students.   Thank you for your continued support of the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department.

WISER RIVER, MT  – The Beaverhead-Deerlodge Forest released an update Friday evening on the ongoing Sawlog Fire, located past Wise River. With 31 firefighters on scene and a light helicopter assisting with water bucket drops, efforts today focused on controlling the area where the fire was advancing east of Sawlog Road. Fire crews faced windy conditions until mid-afternoon, with relative humidity dropping to the mid-teens, complicating suppression efforts. Late this afternoon, the fire was mapped at approximately 475 acres . An additional 20-person crew is expected to arrive in the morning to support ongoing containment activities. Fire investigators continue their work as well, aiming to determine the fire’s point of origin. Their investigation will proceed tomorrow, and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

DILLON, MT  – Tendoy Fine Arts Studio, located at 33 East Bannack Street in downtown Dillon, is excited to host the new exhibition by artist Jim Corr , titled "Series of Christ." Originally completed in 1975, the 33-piece series is a powerful culmination of a wide range of emotions, including grief, despair, agony, joy, and devotion. These poignant works reflect Jim’s personal experience following the tragic loss of his oldest son in a motorcycle accident, which deeply influenced the series. The exhibition opens tonight, May 2nd, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM , with the artist present to discuss his work and the meaning behind the series. If you can’t make the opening, don’t worry—the display will be available throughout the entire month of May. Come experience a heartfelt collection that captures profound human emotions through powerful art.

The Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers easily defeated the Park Varsity Rangers 8-2 Friday in a strong showing on the mound and at the plate. The Rangers struck first in the top of the first inning when Ben Cipriani  doubled, scoring one run. However, the Beavers responded in the top of the third, with Andrew Bartlome  lining out to drive in one run, and an error allowed two more runs to score, giving Beaverhead County a 3-1 lead. Logan Fox  earned the win for the Beavers, pitching seven innings and allowing five hits and two runs (one earned), while striking out eight and walking none. Ben Cipriani  took the loss for the Rangers, pitching six and two-thirds innings and surrendering eight runs (five earned) on 11 hits, with four strikeouts and one walk. The Beavers totaled 11 hits in the game, with Kanin Engelhardt  leading the team with two RBIs. He also went 1-for-4 at the plate. Trenton Moreni  and Sawyer Tackett  each contributed two hits in the game, helping fuel the Beaverhead offense. For the Rangers, Coen Braham , Ben Cipriani , Brentin Allgood , Carter Nelson , and Hansford Tewell  each recorded one hit. Cipriani and Tewell were particularly effective in the lineup, driving in one run each. The Beaverhead County Beavers will next face the Butte Varsity Bulldogs  on Tuesday, looking to continue their winning ways.

Update 05/02 4:45pm The fire is now 423 acres per the National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC) WISER RIVER, MT  – The Sawlog Fire has expanded overnight to approximately 276 acres , burning on lands managed by the Forest Service  and Bureau of Land Management  (Montana/Dakotas). In response, an additional firefighting crew has been ordered, and a light helicopter  will arrive today to assist ground crews. The helicopter will help with water bucket drops and mapping operations to support containment efforts. Today’s operations will focus on keeping the fire west of Sawlog Road , with firefighters working to prevent further spread. Temperatures are expected to reach the high 60s to low 70s, with relative humidity dropping to the mid-teens to 20%. Wind gusts are forecasted to be from the west-southwest at up to 20 mph  in the afternoon.

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont. – The Frontier Conference announced the Men's and Women's Track & Field Academic All-Conference teams this afternoon, presented by Billings Clinic and Logan Health. Montana Western had seven student-athletes earn recognition. To be eligible for the award, student-athletes must be at least a sophomore in standing and carry a minimum 3.25 cumulative grade point average. Women's Track & Field Braden Kopp , Throws (Missoula, Mont. / SO) Justene Santi , Middle Distance (Townsend, Mont. / SO) Olivia Steadman , Distance (Ronan, Mont. / SO)   Men's Track & Field Carson Bain , Throws (Bozeman, Mont. / SO) Layne Cooney , Throws (Missoula, Mont. / JR) Brody Henry , Middle Distance (Havre, Mont. / SO) Harrison Silverio , Distance (Hamilton, Mont. / SO)

Butte, MT Despite out-hitting the Butte Central Catholic Varsity Maroons 7-3, the Beaverhead County Varsity Beavers fell short in a close game on Thursday, losing 5-4. Trenton Moreni  and Garrett Tackett  each contributed two hits for the Beavers, keeping the game competitive until the Maroons’ key double in the fifth inning. The Beavers opened the scoring in the first inning when Cohen Hartman  singled to drive in a run. They extended their lead to 2-0 in the top of the third after Moreni’s single. However, Butte Central Catholic responded in the bottom of the third, tying the game with a single from Beau McGree  and an error. In the top of the fourth, Kanin Engelhardt ’s fielder’s choice brought home the go-ahead run, making it 3-2 in favor of the Beavers. But the Maroons answered back in the bottom of the inning with a big hit from Hassler and several patience at the plate. Gunnar O’Brien  earned the win for the Maroons, allowing seven hits and four runs (two earned) over six and two-thirds innings, with four strikeouts. Cohen Hartman  took the loss for the Beavers, surrendering five runs (four earned) on two hits over four and a third innings, striking out seven. Beaverhead’s Moreni  and Hartman  each drove in a run, and the team was aggressive on the base paths with four stolen bases. For the Maroons, Colt Hassler  led with two RBIs and went 1-for-3. Beau McGree , Trapper Stajcar , and Treigh Hollow  each contributed singles. The team also showed patience at the plate, drawing six walks and turning one double play defensively. The Beavers will look to regroup as they head to Park  on Friday for their next game.

WISER RIVER, MT  – Firefighters from the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest  are currently responding to a newly reported fire in the Sawlog Creek area, located on the south side of the Big Hole River, west of Wise River. Initial estimates indicate that the fire has expanded to approximately 40-50 acres , primarily affecting sagebrush and timberland. Additional firefighting crews are en route to the scene, and in response to the situation, two engines and a light helicopter have been ordered to assist with containment efforts. This is a developing situation, and authorities will provide updates as more information becomes available. Picture Credit Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF Wildland Fire Information

DILLON, MT  – Protesters gathered Thursday afternoon at Kiwanis Park  on Montana Street to exercise their First Amendment rights, waving signs to express their outrage regarding policies implemented by President Trump during his first 100 days in office. This event is being referred to as the May Day protest . Participants showcased a variety of messages of dissent, with some taking the opportunity to engage with cameras, highlighting their perspectives and concerns. The Dillon Police Department  was on-site to ensure the safety of the demonstrators and maintain order, effectively preventing individuals from stepping into oncoming traffic. Officers monitored the situation closely to ensure that the protest remained peaceful.

IDAHO FALLS, ID  – Frontier Credit Union, led by Montana-native Dan Thurman , announced today that it has entered into an agreement to acquire First Citizens Bank of Butte , a wholly-owned subsidiary of Butte Bank Shares, Inc. This acquisition marks Frontier’s first expansion into the Treasure State. Headquartered in Idaho Falls, the strategic move aims to bring Frontier's 90-year legacy  of member-focused financial services to a new market while honoring First Citizens Bank of Butte's tradition of community banking. With this acquisition, customers of First Citizens Bank of Butte will gain access to Frontier's full suite of financial products, enhanced technology, competitive rates, and quick online loan applications, all while maintaining a commitment to personalized service. "As we bring Frontier to Montana, we're not just expanding our footprint—we're extending our mission of helping people build better lives," stated Dan Thurman, CEO of Frontier Credit Union. "Having grown up in Dillon, it’s a dream to share Frontier with my home state. We can’t wait to be a part of the fabric here in Butte and serve this great community." "This transaction brings tremendous opportunities for our customers and employees," said Casey Reilly , CEO of First Citizens Bank of Butte. "It’s a natural fit. I’m excited our customers will be in the hands of someone who knows what makes Montana special and appreciates the uniqueness of Butte." The transaction is subject to approval by bank and credit union regulators as well as the shareholders of Butte Bank Shares, Inc. Until the acquisition is finalized, both organizations will continue to conduct business as usual. First Citizens Bank of Butte customers can expect communication from their banking team during the transition, and the local branch will remain open, ensuring the personalized banking experience that customers value. The CEO Advisory Group  and McQueen Financial Advisors  served as financial advisors to Frontier Credit Union, while Luse Gorman, PC  acted as its legal advisor in the proposed acquisition. Olsen Palmer LLC  served as financial advisor to First Citizens Bank of Butte and Butte Bank Shares, Inc., with Spierer Woodward Corbalis Goldberg  as its legal advisor. For more information about Frontier Credit Union and the acquisition, please visit frontiercreditunion.com/blog/expanding-to-butte-montana  or email contactus@frontiercreditunion.com . About Frontier Credit Union: Founded in 1935, Frontier Credit Union helps members build better lives through personalized financial services, competitive rates, and active community investment. Recognized as Idaho's fastest-growing credit union, Frontier combines modern banking technology with traditional member-focused service. About First Citizens Bank of Butte: First Citizens Bank of Butte, an FDIC insured Montana State-chartered commercial bank, was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Butte, Montana, where it operates one branch. Learn more at fcbob.com .

Lindsey Branch, UMW Sports Information DILLON, Mont.  – The Montana Western Athletic Department hosted its annual induction ceremony for the Beta Chapter of the Chi Alpha Sigma national collegiate athlete honor society on Monday, April 28, 2025. The Bulldogs had 30 student-athletes honored at the ceremony as the second induction class into the chapter.  In order to be inducted, student-athletes must participate in a sport at the varsity intercollegiate level, achieve junior academic standing or higher after their fifth full-time semester, and earn a cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 or higher. The ceremony was held in the Lewis and Clark room on campus as the inductees were joined by coaches and athletic staff with remarks from UMW Provost Johnny MacLean. Below is a full list of this year's induction class. Those marked with an (*) are repeat selections. 2025 Inductees John Mears , Football* Jacob Ankeny , Men's Basketball* Katherine Bills , Women's Rodeo* Chucky Braverock , Football* Keke Davis , Women's Basketball Taten Ells , Football* Jace Fitzgerald , Football Kaylee Fritz , Women's Volleyball* Madalyn Foster , Women's Rodeo Kelsey Goddard , Women's Volleyball* Hannah Griffin , Women's Rodeo* Payton Hagy , Women's Basketball* Matthew Heer , Football* Trevor Kay , Men's Rodeo* Tavy Leno , Women's Rodeo Alexis Loucks , Sideline Cheer* Isabella Lund , Women's Basketball* Everitt Mauler , Men's Rodeo* Breyana Miller , Women's Rodeo* Tori Murnion , Women's Rodeo James Ochs , Football* Jordan Olson , Women's Volleyball Malli O'Neal , Women's Rodeo* Bridger Polk , Football Brooke Richey , Women's Rodeo* Noah Rimmer , Football* Jazi Smith , Women's Volleyball* Quincy Taylor , Men's Basketball* Peyton Vogl , Women's Volleyball* Eli Wells , Football

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Thursday, May 1st, 2025 7:00 p.m. City Council Chambers Planning Board Meeting AGENDA   A.   Call Meeting to Order B.   Review and Approval of Minutes i.          April 3rd, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes ii.        April 15th, 2025 Regular Meeting Minutes C.    Review Goals/Objectives and Actions in 2016 Growth Policy D.   Current Growth Policy Update E.    Update on County Planning Board Activities F.    Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Planning Board. G.   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, Raymond Graham, Dan Nye, Ed Mooney, Michael Saunders, Maria Emmer-Aanes

The University of Montana Western will celebrate its 128th Annual Commencement Ceremony on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. in Bulldog Stadium on the UMW campus. “We look forward to celebrating this important milestone for our students, and we are proud of all of their accomplishments,” said Montana Western Chancellor Michael Reid. A total of 372 Montana Western graduates will be awarded over 404 degrees by the end of the 2024–25 academic year. Of those graduates, 27 have completed two or more degrees, and 64% are receiving honors by achieving a GPA of 3.33 or higher. Two hundred graduates have chosen to participate in this year’s ceremony. The ceremony’s Chief Marshal will be UMW Professor of Ecology, Dr. Wendy Ridenour. Commencement Speaker: Nathan J. Boll This year’s commencement program will feature 2013 Montana Western graduate Nathan J. Boll. Boll is a Space Policy Analyst in the Science Mission Directorate at the headquarters of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) in Washington, D.C., where he specializes in intergovernmental affairs. He currently supports the Joint Agency Satellite Division as the lead interagency agreement manager and serves as the Executive Secretary of the NASA Advisory Council’s Science Committee. “We are honored to welcome Nathan J. Boll back to Montana Western for our 128th Annual Commencement ceremony. His work in space policy and intergovernmental affairs at NASA demonstrates the impact of a Montana Western education and the incredible paths our graduates can pursue,” said Montana Western Chancellor, Michael Reid. “We look forward to his address as he shares his experiences and helps inspire our graduates to reach for new heights in their own careers.” UMW Alumni Distinguished Service Award Recipient: Bryan Mussard Bryan Mussard, a proud Dillon native and 1991 Montana Western graduate, has long been a dedicated supporter of both his alma mater and community. He and his wife, Marcia, live in Dillon where they manage Big West Management and Reminisce Angus Ranch with their family. For nearly four decades, Mussard has built a reputation for excellence, integrity, and innovation in ranching and business. A successful entrepreneur, he founded Gorgeous Vodka, an award-winning, 93-point-rated brand that has earned five gold medals. He also founded Cattle Baron Cigars, a nationally distributed line rated between 91–93 points, and Reminisce Angus Beef, which supplies premium beef to high-end resorts along the Rocky Mountain Front, as well as grocery stores across Montana and the United States. Beyond his business achievements, Mussard has consistently supported Montana Western and the broader Dillon community. Events Leading Up to Commencement Social Honoring Bryan Mussard and the UMW Classes of 1975 & 2000 The Montana Western Alumni Office will host a social at the Dillon Elks Lodge on Friday, May 9, at 5:00 p.m. to honor Bryan Mussard and the Montana Western classes of 1975 and 2000. The cost to attend is $10. To RSVP, please call 406-683-7303 or visit  tinyurl.com/Alumni-Social . Legacy Plaza Ceremony An additional ceremony honoring the 2025 Graduating Class will be held on Friday, May 9, at 3:30 p.m. on the campus’s Legacy Plaza. This celebration is part of a special tradition at Montana Western held at the end of each academic year on the eve of the Commencement Ceremony that celebrates and honors the graduates for the completion of their degrees and the legacy that they will leave at UMW. Bulldog Breakfast  The annual Bulldog Breakfast will be held on Saturday, May 10, from 7:00–9:30 a.m. in UMW’s Dining Hall for all Commencement guests. Reservations are requested by Thursday, May 8, 2025, at  umwestern.edu/commencement-breakfast-reservation , but are not required to attend. Breakfast will include waffles, scrambled eggs, hashbrowns, sausage, biscuits and gravy, sweet rolls, muffins, coffee cake, fresh fruit, cereal, yogurt, granola, chilled juice, coffee, and assorted teas. The cost is $10 for adults and $8 for children ages 2–10. Payment will be accepted by Dining Services via Bulldog Bucks or credit/debit card.  Commencement Day Logistics Graduate Check-In Graduates and degree candidates must arrive at the South Entrance of Bulldog Stadium by 9:00 a.m. dressed in full regalia. The Processional will begin at 9:50 a.m. Seating Commencement will be held in Bulldog Stadium and is open to all, no tickets are required. Gates open at 9:00 a.m., and seating is available on the field, in the bleachers, and on the berms on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that seating and parking cannot be reserved. Guests should enter through the main ticket booth entrance. Beier Auditorium Livestream Viewing A live stream of the ceremony will also be available in Beier Auditorium. Doors open at 9:00 a.m., and seating is first come, first served. Guests will be asked to exit the auditorium once the ceremony ends. Online Livestream For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the Commencement Ceremony will be available starting at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 10, at  umwestern.edu/commencement-live-stream . For more information, please contact the Montana Western Registrar’s Office by calling 406-683-7371 or visit  https://tinyurl.com/UMWComm25 .