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The big top is coming to Dillon this summer as the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus makes a stop in Beaverhead County on Monday, June 22, 2026. The event is being sponsored locally by the Kiwanis Club of Dillon and will take place at Chris Kraft County Park located at 1301 Overland Road. The traveling one-ring circus will feature two performances at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Organizers say the show will include big cats presented by Trey Key, aerial performances by Simone on the trapeze, the Perez Daredevil Duo on the tight rope and Wheel of Destiny, hand and foot juggling by the Macias family, performing canines, and circus clown Leo Acton. According to organizers, the Culpepper & Merriweather Circus has been providing family entertainment for more than 40 years and has been featured on programs including “Under the Big Top” on A&E and “Nick News: On the Road with Circus Kids.” The day will begin with a public tent raising and tour at 9:30 a.m., giving families the opportunity to watch the big top go up and learn more about circus life and animal care. The midway opens at 4 p.m. with pony rides, a moon bounce, giant slide, face painting, concessions, and other activities before the evening performances. Advance tickets are available now for $14 for adults and $8 for children ages 2-12 and seniors 65 and older. Tickets purchased at the box office on circus day will be $17 for adults and $10 for children and seniors. Advance tickets can be purchased locally at Town & Country Foods, The Mini, D&L’s Sweetwater Goods Dispensary, Salsas Mexican Restaurant, Womack’s Printing & Photo, Dillon Video, The Cottage, Forever 7 Jewelry, and the 3-D Gift Shop.

The University of Montana Western has announced the hiring of Dr. Hilary Smith Risser as the university’s new Interim Dean of Strategic Initiatives. Dr. Smith Risser will officially begin her role on June 1, 2026. Dr. Smith Risser currently serves as a tenured Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Montana Technological University, where she has been a faculty member since 2008. She earned her Ph.D. in Computational and Applied Mathematics from Southern Methodist University and previously taught at Plano West Senior High School and Texas Woman’s University before joining Montana Tech. “Dr. Smith Risser brings an outstanding combination of academic leadership, innovation, collaboration, and student-centered vision to Montana Western,” said UMW Chancellor, Dr. Estee Aiken. “Her extensive experience in higher education, accreditation, faculty leadership, grant development, and student success initiatives will be a tremendous asset as Montana Western continues to advance strategic priorities that support our students, faculty, staff, and communities across Montana.” Throughout her career at Montana Tech, Dr. Smith Risser has held numerous leadership roles, including serving as Head of the Department of Mathematical Sciences for 11 years, Director of the university’s Data Science program for two years, President of the Montana Tech Faculty Association for four years, and most recently as the institution’s Accreditation Liaison Officer (ALO). She is also a former president of the Montana Council of Teachers of Mathematics and was recognized with the Dean Preble Memorial Award for her contributions to mathematics education in Montana. Dr. Smith Risser has received multiple honors for excellence in teaching and service, including three Rose and Anna Busch Awards, five merit awards, and designation as a Montana University System Teaching Scholar. She is currently principal investigator on two grants totaling approximately $2 million in funding, including a National Science Foundation S-STEM award and a subaward through Montana INBRE. Her research focuses on the use of technology in mathematics education and professional development for educators. She has authored numerous articles and book chapters related to online learning, mentoring higher education faculty, and mathematics instruction, while also collaborating with researchers and educators around the world. “I am thrilled to join Montana Western and contribute to the university’s innovative and student-focused mission,” said Dr. Smith Risser. “Montana Western’s commitment to experiential learning and academic excellence creates incredible opportunities for students, faculty, and staff. I am excited to collaborate with the campus community over the coming academic year.”

Tuesday afternoon the Dillon Volunteer Fire Department responded to a field fire burning in a grass field north of Dillon, near Highway 41 North and Airport Road. The fire also caused power outages along Overland Road and in areas northeast of Dillon. When firefighters arrived on the scene, approximately 2.5 acres were already burning. Crews worked quickly to contain the blaze and stopped the fire at around 3 acres. At this time, the cause of the fire remains unknown and is under investigation.

The Beaverhead County High School Beavers wrapped up their final home game of the season Tuesday night with another victory, defeating the Lone Peak Big Horns 9-2 to improve to an impressive 16-0-1 on the year. The win caps off a historic regular season for the Beavers, who have already clinched the program’s first-ever trip to the state tournament. Beaverhead County wasted little time taking control of the game, erupting for seven runs in the bottom of the first inning. Cohen Hartman started the scoring with an RBI double before Andrew Bartlome added an RBI single. An error brought home another run, Levi Stonebraker followed with an RBI single, Tristan Alvarez added a sacrifice fly, and Sawyer Tackett capped the inning with a two-run single. Tackett led the offensive attack, collecting three hits in four at bats. He tripled and singled in the opening inning before adding another hit in the sixth. Hartman earned the win on the mound, allowing one hit and two runs, one earned, over three and one-third innings while striking out five. Stonebraker was strong in relief, tossing three and two-thirds shutout innings while allowing just two hits and striking out four. The Beavers continued to pressure Lone Peak on the base paths, stealing eight bases in the contest. Tackett accounted for three of those stolen bases. Tristan Alvarez, Andrew Bartlome, Kanin Engelhardt, Cohen Hartman, Levi Stonebraker, and Sawyer Tackett each drove in a run for Beaverhead County. For Lone Peak, Steen Mitchell went 2-for-2 at the plate and led the Big Horns with one RBI. The Beavers now turn their attention to the postseason as they prepare for the state tournament with an unbeaten record of 16 wins, no losses, and one tie.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana City Council Chambers Wednesday, May 20th, 2026 7:00 P.M. REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL AGENDA PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE A. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS ON THE AGENDA B. MINUTES 1. Approve Minutes of April 15th, 2026 Regular City Council Meeting 2. Approve Minutes of May 8, 2026 Special City Council Meeting 3. Accept May 6th, 2026 Transcript from Public Hearing C. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS AND OTHER ACTION ITEMS 1. Update on Fee Waiver for Dillon Montana Community Foundation 2. Review Citizen Complaints for First Quarter of 2026 3. Review the DRAFT Downtown Dillon Urban Renewal District Review of Conditions and Approve Resolution #1506 – Finding of Blight 4. Approve Recommendation to Montana Department of Revenue Regarding Petition for The Homestead Senior Development Property Tax Exemption 5. Arbor Day Foundation Tree City Award D. MAYORS REPORT 1. Approve Resolution #1505 – Adopt the 2026 Growth Policy Update 2. Appoint A Council Member to Beaverhead County 911 Communications Board 3. Accept/Approve WET Engineering Proposal for SID #38 E. REPORTS OF OFFICERS AND BOARDS OF THE CITY 1. City Attorney – Walter Congdon 2. Planning Board - Raymond Graham, Tara Stevens a. Accept the Transcript of March 19, 2026 Public Hearing b. Accept the Minutes of March 19, 2026 Regular Board Meeting 3. Zoning Commission – Joleen Schultz, Mike Brumbaugh a. Accept the Minutes of February 24, 2026 Regular Meeting b. Accept the Minutes of April 14th, 2026 1. Approve WWC Work Order #8 to Update Zoning Map 4. Board of Adjustments – Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem 5. Director of Operations – Kristina Abbey 6. Police Department –Police Chief Joel Stewart a. Accept the Incident Report from April 2026 7. Fire Department – Fire Chief Jay Epperson a. Accept the April 2026 Activity Report b. Approve City Clerk Report for Fire Hall for April 2026 c. Approve Budget vs. Expenditures Report for Fire Hall for April 2026 8. City Court – Judge Bill Knox a. Accept the Court Report from April 2026 9. Library Board –Russ Schwandt, Council Member; Kim Denny, Library Director a. Accept the Minutes of March 31, 2026 Regular Board Meeting 10. Tree Board - Jeremy Crawford, Council Member a. Accept the Minutes March 2, 2026 Regular Meeting 11. Treasurer – Karen Kipp F. REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Ordinances & Facilities – Joleen Schultz, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Don Deem a. Approve Minutes of April 16, 2026 Regular Meeting 2. Finance Committee – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Mary Jo O’Rourke, Jeremy Crawford a. Approve the Minutes of May 8th, 2026 Meeting i. Approve Fund Summary for Claims for April 2026 ii. Approve Claims by Vendor Report for April 2026 iii. Approve Mayor’s Report to the Finance Committee for April 2026 iv. Approve Budget vs. Actual Report for April 2026 3. Public Services – Mike Brumbaugh, Chair; Don Deem, Tara Stevens 4. Open Spaces – Raymond Graham, Chair; Joleen Schultz, Jeremy Crawford 5. Public Works – Russ Schwandt, Chair; Raymond Graham, Mike Brumbaugh a. Approve the Minutes of April 8, 2026 Regular Meeting b. Approve the Minutes of April 22, 2026 Special Meeting G. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS OF SIGNIFICANT PUBLIC INTEREST NOT ON THE AGENDA AND WITHIN THE JURISDICTION OF THE CITY H. 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 Beaverhead County High School Beavers put together a strong Saturday on the diamond, earning back-to-back victories over Laurel and Billings Central Catholic to continue their winning momentum. The Beavers opened the day with a commanding 10-1 win over the Laurel Locomotives before following it up with a 10-7 victory against the Billings Central Catholic Rams. Against Laurel, Beaverhead County jumped out early in the first inning when Jase Alvarez drove in a run on a fielder’s choice and Kanin Engelhardt followed with an RBI single to left field for a 2-0 lead. The Beavers added another run in the third inning when Engelhardt drew a bases-loaded walk to extend the advantage to 3-1. Beaverhead County piled up 12 hits in the opener. Trenton Moreni, Cohen Hartman, and Gage Curnow each collected two hits, while Hartman and Andrew Bartlome each drove in two runs. Bartlome also drew three walks as the Beavers finished with nine free passes. The Beavers were aggressive on the bases, stealing six bags in the game, including two from Alvarez. Defensively, Beaverhead County played error-free baseball and turned two double plays. Later in the day, the Beavers battled past Billings Central Catholic 10-7 behind another big offensive performance. Beaverhead County got on the board first when Moreni grounded out to score a run in the opening inning, but Billings Central answered with a two-run double from Zach McDonald to take a 2-1 lead. The Beavers responded in a big way during the second inning, scoring five runs on three hits to take control of the game. Sawyer Tackett delivered the key hit of the inning with a two-run single. Hartman continued his hot day at the plate in the fourth inning, crushing a full-count home run to left field as part of a three-hit game. Hartman finished the contest 3-for-5 with a home run, double, and single. Sawyer Tackett earned the win on the mound, while Andrew Bartlome provided valuable relief innings to help secure the victory. Beaverhead County again totaled 12 hits in the win over the Rams. Bartlome, Engelhardt, and Alvarez each added multiple hits, while Engelhardt stole two bases. The Beavers finished with five stolen bases and also turned a double play defensively. Across the two games, Beaverhead County combined for 20 runs, 24 hits, 11 stolen bases, and three double plays while receiving strong pitching performances from Fox, Tackett, and Bartlome. The Beavers return to action Tuesday when they host the Lone Peak Big Horns.

Beaverhead County opened the day with a 13-9 victory over Hardin in a game packed with offense from the opening inning. The Lady Beavers erupted for 11 runs in the top of the first inning to take early control. Kaitlyn Konen started the scoring with a bases-loaded walk before Maisy Hutchinson and Reese Jensen added RBI singles. Bailey Blake drove in two runs with a single, while an error and a hit-by-pitch helped extend the rally. Konen capped the inning with a three-run home run to right field, giving Beaverhead County an 11-0 lead. Hardin answered immediately with eight runs in the bottom of the first inning. Emmalynn Mehling highlighted the rally with a grand slam to center field as the Bulldogs cut the deficit to 11-8. The Lady Beavers added insurance runs in the second and third innings. Tymber Barnes doubled home a run in the second before another run scored in the third on a Hardin error. Barnes earned the win in the circle, allowing seven hits and nine runs, eight earned, while striking out five. Konen led Beaverhead County with three RBIs, while Hutchinson collected two hits. Burk Leads Beaverhead County Past Lockwood The Lady Beavers followed up the win over Hardin with a 13-2 victory against the Lockwood Lions later Friday. Ashlyn Burk led the offensive attack, going 3-for-3 at the plate with singles in the second, third, and fourth innings while driving in two runs. Beaverhead County took control early in the second inning when Burk delivered an RBI single and another two runs scored on a Lockwood error. The Lady Beavers extended the lead in the third inning with RBI singles from Reese Jensen and Burk before erupting for eight runs in the fourth inning to put the game away. During the big fourth inning, Bridget Lovaas added an RBI single, Maisy Hutchinson brought home a run with a sacrifice fly, Burk drove in another run with a single, and Mya Creighton capped the rally with an RBI hit. Creighton earned the win in the circle, allowing four hits and two unearned runs over four innings. Beaverhead County showed patience at the plate throughout the game, drawing six walks. Kaitlyn Konen led the team with two walks. The Lady Beavers were scheduled to continue play Saturday against the Stillwater Renegades.

The Beaverhead County High School Beavers picked up another road win Thursday, defeating the Lone Peak Big Horns 11-8 at Home Run Drive behind a big offensive performance from Cohen Hartman. Hartman collected four hits in five at bats for the Beavers, singling in the first, second, and fourth innings before adding a double in the fifth. Beaverhead County jumped out early in the top of the first inning. The Beavers scored on a Lone Peak error before Trenton Moreni added an RBI single to left field to make it 2-0. Lone Peak answered in the bottom half of the inning, tying the game at two after Miles Romney drew a bases-loaded walk. The Beavers responded with a four-run second inning to take control. Gage Curnow drove in a run with a single, Hartman followed with an RBI single, and Andrew Bartlome grounded out to bring home two more runs for a 6-2 advantage. The Big Horns battled back in the third inning to tie the game at six with the help of an RBI single from Eli Gale, two walks, and a Beaver error. Beaverhead reclaimed the lead for good in the fourth inning when another Lone Peak error allowed the go-ahead run to score, putting the Beavers up 7-6. Levi Stonebraker earned the win in relief for Beaverhead County. The right-hander allowed four hits and two runs — both unearned — over four innings while striking out four without issuing a walk. Garrett Tackett added a scoreless inning in relief, striking out two. Hartman started on the mound for the Beavers, allowing six runs — only two earned — over two innings while striking out three. Beaverhead County pounded out 14 hits in the win. Moreni and Stonebraker each added multiple-hit performances, while Bartlome drove in two runs from the middle of the lineup. The Beavers were also aggressive on the bases, stealing nine bags during the game. Hartman, Moreni, and Bartlome each recorded multiple stolen bases. For Lone Peak, Ian Pecunies drove in two runs while Ryan Malinowski collected two hits. The Big Horns showed patience at the plate with seven walks in the contest. The Beavers will now travel to face the Laurel Locomotives on Saturday.

In accordance with 15-15-101(6) MCA, the Beaverhead County Tax Appeal Board will be in session from July 1st through December 31st, 2026, for the business of hearing appeals of property valuations set by the Montana Department of Revenue. Any taxpayer who disagrees with the appraised value of his or her property may file an appeal with the Beaverhead County Tax Appeal Board within 30 days of the date on the Notice of Classification and Appraisal or Notice to Change Valuation (assessment notice). Appeal forms are available at the Beaverhead County Clerk & Recorder’s Office, or at the website of the Montana Tax Appeal Board, www.mtab.mt.gov. Any appeal must be filed with the Office of the County Clerk and Recorder. Upon receipt of the appeal, the County Tax Appeal Board Secretary will notify the appellant and schedule a County hearing. The Beaverhead County Tax Appeal Board members are Jason Karch, Jim Harvey, and Vana Taylor. For further information, contact the Beaverhead County Tax Appeal Board’s secretary at 406-683-3720, or by email: hschwandt@beaverheadcountymt.gov. Dated this 13th day of May 2026. Stacey Reynolds Beaverhead County Clerk & Recorder

DILLON — Dillon Elementary School District #10 conducted a precautionary evacuation Wednesday afternoon after a power outage impacted communications and raised safety concerns within the school buildings. According to Superintendent Randy Shipman, the outage occurred at approximately 2 p.m. and caused the district’s phone system and messaging services to become unavailable, preventing staff from immediately notifying families about the situation. Shipman said the outage was traced to an electrical shortage in the school kitchen. Following the incident, staff members searched the buildings and determined that students and staff should evacuate as a precautionary safety measure. “While we would typically notify parents immediately, our primary focus at that time was ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff,” Shipman said in a statement shared with families. Emergency responders from the Dillon Police Department, Beaverhead County Sheriff’s Office, Dillon Volunteer Fire Department, and Montana Highway Patrol assisted during the evacuation process. School buildings were safely cleared and students were dismissed without incident. No injuries were reported.

BEAVERHEAD FIRE DIST. #2 405 N. IDAHO STREET DILLON, MT MEETING NOTICE TUESDAY MAY 19 , 2026 5:00 PM AGENDA: I. Call to order II. Approval of Minutes from last meeting Public Comment III. Approval of Warrants Public Comment IV. Old Business Public Comment V. New Business Public Comment VI. Chiefs Report Public Comment VII. Public comment on subjects under the jurisdiction of Beaverhead Fire District #2 that is not on the agenda. VIII. Adjournment

GRANT — Monday afternoon Beaverhead Fire District #2 crews were called out to a grass and shrub fire along Highway 324 past Grant. Firefighters were able to quickly contain the blaze at approximately one acre, preventing further spread and additional damage to the surrounding area. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

125 N. Idaho St. City of Dillon, Montana Tuesday, May 12th, 2026 at 7:00 P.M. ZONING COMMISSION Regular Meeting Agenda 1. Call To Order 2. Review and Approval of April 28th, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes 3. Director of Operations Report 4. Applications for Zoning Compliance Certificates for Review: 2026-013 Rexin 534 Barnett Mobile Home 5. Discuss/Approve Changes to Title 17.60 – Residential Districts Due to HB 492 6. Review Recommendation from the Board of Adjustments to Amenda Title 17.12.100(D) and Appendix 1 7. Public Comment on Items of Significant Public Interest Not on the Agenda and Within the Jurisdiction of the Zoning Commission 8. Adjournment PLEASE NOTE: A 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. zoning Commission Members: Joleen Schultz, Mike Brumbaugh, Mike Watson, Kevin Boileau

The University of Montana Western has announced that Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance Tia Brown will be stepping down from her role to accept a new position as Chief Financial Officer at Montana State University Billings. Brown will begin her new role on August 3, 2026. Brown has served Montana Western with dedication and leadership since 2024, playing a key role in guiding the university’s financial operations and administrative services. During her time at Montana Western, she has contributed to strategic planning efforts, supported institutional priorities, and helped ensure the university’s financial stability and operational effectiveness. Originally from Shawnee, Kansas, Brown earned a B.S. in Psychology with a minor in business in 1992 from Northwest Missouri State University and a Master of Business Administration degree from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 2000. Brown has previously served in several roles at Montana State University including Assistant Dean of Academic Affairs and Assurance of Learning in the Jake Jabs College of Business and Entrepreneurship and was the College’s Director of Operations. Prior to her work at MSU, Brown served in several roles at Helena College including Instructor of Accounting and Business, Dual Credit Coordinator, and Division Chair of General Education and Transfer. “We are grateful for Tia’s leadership and the many contributions she has made to Montana Western,” said Chancellor Michael Reid. “Her thoughtful approach, strong financial stewardship, and commitment to our campus community have helped position the university for continued success. While we will certainly miss her, we are excited for Tia as she takes this next step in her career and wish her all the best in her new role.” Brown’s leadership has been instrumental in supporting the mission of Montana Western and advancing initiatives that benefit students, faculty, and staff. Her work has helped strengthen the university’s operations while navigating the evolving landscape of higher education. “I am incredibly grateful for my time at Montana Western and for the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and supportive campus community,” said Brown. “It has been an honor to contribute to the university’s mission and to be part of the important work happening here. While I am excited for this next opportunity, Montana Western will always hold a special place for me, and I look forward to seeing the university continue to grow and succeed.” The University of Montana Western will soon launch a search to identify its next Vice Chancellor for Administration and Finance.

DILLON — Beaverhead County High School rolled to a 12-2 win over Broadwater Monday behind a strong offensive performance led by Cohen Hartman. Hartman collected three hits in three at bats, doubling in the first, second and fifth innings to help power the Beavers offense. Beaverhead County broke the game open with a seven-run second inning. Tristan Alvarez started the scoring with a sacrifice fly before Sawyer Tackett delivered a two-run single. Hartman followed with a two-run double and Andrew Bartlome capped the inning with a two-run home run to right field. Will Hansen earned the win on the mound for the Beavers. The right-hander allowed just one hit and no runs over four innings while striking out seven and walking one. Trenton Moreni appeared in relief. Broadwater’s Keaton Boylan took the loss after allowing 11 runs on 10 hits over three and two-thirds innings. The Beavers finished with 12 hits in the game. Hartman and Jase Alvarez each recorded three hits, while Levi Stonebraker added two hits in two at bats. Andrew Bartlome, Cohen Hartman and Sawyer Tackett each drove in two runs for Beaverhead County. Hartman also stole two bases as the Beavers totaled four stolen bases in the game. Dallas Fligge led Broadwater offensively, going 1-for-3 with an RBI. The Beavers next travel to face Lone Peak Thursday.

Beaverhead County Mental Health Local Advisory Counsel Tom Welch Room County Treasurers Building – Corner of Center and Washington AGENDA Thursday, May 14, 2026, Noon to 2:00 p.m. Introductions - Establish Quorum Approval of Minutes – April 9, meeting ACTION ITEMS: 1. Historical Data and Set Future Goals UPDATES 1. Local updates NEW BUSINESS ADJOURN