LEWISTOWN — It’s that time of year again an annual spring event that has been held every year for the last several decades in downtown Lewistown will now move to Rec Park Some favorite organizations returning this year are Central Keystone Football Krise Transportation and Penn State Ag Block; new this year is Walmart “While the new location creates obstacles to the placement of various activities,” Goss states “I’m optimistic that we will still have a great turn out for children and their families Kid Connection is an event that is essential for bridging the gap for resources and persons needing them I will learn about new resources every year from organizations contacting me to register.” Organizers said the event moved to Rec Park after collecting feedback regarding the safety of children and event participants As many children’s events had successfully been hosted at the Lewistown Rec Park the decision was made to trial the event there I based my decision on safety for children my main focus was on trialing this to improve safety concerns and then reflect after this year’s event.” The new location will allow access for children to run around access to benches and picnicking areas and the opportunity to spectate local sporting events scheduled for that day For more information on participating or volunteering for this year’s Kid Connection contact mifflincokidconnection@gmail.com or visit the Facebook page “It is truly an event that focuses on bringing resources activities and entertainment to the heart of our future While we are able to enjoy the beautiful spring weather it also allows for children to discover interests or activities they wouldn’t be able to otherwise…art Essentially the event connects children and their family to the community,” Goss added Editor’s note: To submit a nonprofit announcement to The Sentinel’s Religion section The Sentinel offers nonprofit and other community organizations an opportunity to promote upcoming events for free .. BEAVER SPRINGS — Auction enthusiasts can unite today for a trifecta of sales on Saturday at the Middlecreek Area .. PORT ROYAL — The Supporting our Heroes organization will be hosting an inaugural “Heroes and Harmony” event .. Copyright © 2025 Ogden Newspapers of Pennsylvania LLC | https://www.lewistownsentinel.com | 352 Sixth Street Representative Shane Klakken for House District 37 was in the studio to gives us a wrap up of the legislative session and what he learned.  ©2005- 2024 KXLO Radio, All Rights Reserved Westwind Web Havre softball got to play in the confines of Sixth Avenue Memorial Field again on Tuesday The Golden Eagles took down the Blue Ponies in an offensive slugfest handing them their first conference loss of the season Lewistown got the game started with a run in the first inning That was followed up by four runs in the second to go up getting runners on base and generating offense via a ground out and hit-by-pitch to score twice in the third inning The Golden Eagles responded with one run in the fourth inning and another four runs in the fifth inning Camille Keeley launched her fourth home run of the season in the bottom of the inning She was brought back up with the bases loaded in the sixth inning and drew a walk to make it (11-5) putting up two more runs in the seventh inning to end it with Havre going quietly in the bottom of the inning Blue Pony softball will host Glasgow on Thursday with varsity first pitch scheduled for 5:30pm Sign up to receive our free daily recap of local news Personalized news alerts with our mobile app Please subscribe to continue reading… FRENCHTOWN — The Lewistown softball team has come close to earning its first state trophy in program history but has fallen just short a few times hope they have a team capable of bringing home their first hardware from the State A tournament this spring under coach Mike Mangold He has led the team to 12 state tournaments in 14 seasons since its inception in 2010 "We talked about that (Thursday) night after our East Helena game," he said Friday at Frenchtown's annual Bette Paskey Memorial Tournament this is going to be an easier game.' But you can't take it like that Lewistown got off to that hot start it wanted as it cruised to a 10-0 win over Hamilton in its first of four games this weekend in Frenchtown The Golden Eagles improved their record to 10-1 overall with that victory to test itself against teams from the Southwest and Northwest Those two conferences have combined to win the past four state titles "I think this year we're going to make a deep run and have a good chance," senior shortstop Kiya Foran said of bringing home state hardware after hitting a two-run home run Friday "I just think having seven seniors is really huge I think we're just old enough and we're going to be ready to play this year." The majority of the seniors have been on the team going back to their freshman season like Foran and senior designated player Kloe Southworth are now in their fourth year starting on the varsity team Those seniors have qualified for the state tournament in all three of their previous opportunities They've advanced in the bracket to the final day each of the past two seasons "We're looking good this year," Southworth said after tallying an RBI double against Hamilton "We usually always make a surprise at state We trust everyone on the team to do their best The Golden Eagles have been averaging 13.7 runs through their first 11 games while replacing all-stater Eliazar Southard second-team all-conference honoree Kylie Moline all-conference honorable mention Madeline Denton They scored in four of the five innings in the run-rule win over Hamilton Lewistown's Kiera Southard runs toward third base during the high school softball game between Lewistown and Hamilton at the Bette Paskey Memorial Tournament on Friday afternoon at Frenchtown High School The Golden Eagles rolled to a 10-0 win to improve their record to 10-1 this season They're led by six returning award winners Pitcher Kayla Jensen and first baseman Jaden Martin were all-staters Left fielder Addi Vanek and second baseman Riley Comes were first-team all-conference Southworth and Foran made the second-team all-conference "The chemistry is insane," Southworth said of this year's team Southworth is just a batter this year while still working back from an MCL injury he suffered last summer while diving to catch a ball She had started the past three years in center field Lewistown started four non-seniors against Hamilton in juniors Averi Sparks Anna Elam and Kiera Southard — who blasted a two-run home run off the scoreboard in center field — and sophomore Riley Roche four sophomores and four freshmen in addition to the seven seniors who might have his deepest team since the "stacked" 2020 team he thought could've brought home state hardware if the season wasn't canceled by the pandemic "I have faith in 14 girls that can come in and play Our JV is killing it and that helps me and they're getting that experience I can put them in and all of them have started games which Mangold feels will be "wide open" with no dominant team is now less than one month away for the Golden Eagles They already own an 8-6 win over defending State B-C champion Manhattan and an 8-7 victory against perennial Class A contender Billings Central collecting conference wins will be paramount to ensure a top seed at the state tournament in Columbia Falls They're 3-0 in that aspect even while getting a late start to the season as six players were on the basketball team that made the state tournament "Our team goal is to make the deepest run we can at state this year and just leave it all on the field," Foran said "There's so many seniors we want to make it our best year yet." Frank Gogola is the Senior Sports Reporter at the Missoulian and 406 MT Sports. Follow him on X @FrankGogola or email him at frank.gogola@406mtsports.com Email notifications are only sent once a day Nickisch is affectionately called "Pucks" by her Skyview Falcons teammates (WHP) — Two firefighters were injured after a tanker truck overturned while responding to a fire crashing into a residence in Lewistown Sunday at the intersection of North Grand Street and West 3rd Street Fire officials said a car crashed into the tanker Both a driver and officer were initially trapped after the crash but officials said the driver had to be physically removed was on its way to a brush fire on Ferguson Valley Road that had gotten out of control Orlando Reyes told CBS 21 that he was getting ready to take a nap when the tanker came barreling into his apartment living room "When I was starting to go to sleep I heard a big noise I saw two guys in the truck," Reyes said "It was upside down-- they were hanging there." In addition to damaging Reyes' apartment bringing down several wires across the street with it Fuel from the tanker also leaked onto the road Neighbor Natasha Heiss was also home at the time of the crash she said she's relieved he's okay and I was just running around the street looking for him The tanker was towed away from the scene in pieces after several hours The Junction Fire Company Office of the Fire Chief released the following statement: LEWISTOWN — Ashlie Crosson has spent the past five years as an English teacher at Mifflin County High School creating lifelong learning experiences that prepare her students to navigate the complexities of a global society A 2007 graduate of Lewistown Area High School Crosson is a product of the Mifflin County School District She returned in August 2020 to the Juniata River Valley and has been a dedicated member of the Mifflin County High School faculty where she teaches Advanced Placement Language and Composition an elective that approaches global humanitarian crises from a youth perspective “The Tyrian,” and district-wide magazine Following her selection as the 2024 Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year each representing their respective states and American territories considered for the prestigious 2025 National Teacher of the Year Award Crosson was announced as the recipient of an extraordinary honor as the 2025 National Teacher of the Year recognizing her excellence in education on a national level The award is through the Council of Chief State School Officers’ Pennsylvania Teacher of the Year Program “I’m so honored to hold this role for the next year This is such an incredible opportunity to share our school and our students with the country and be a voice for education I’m so grateful for my students and colleagues who have been a part of this journey,” Crosson said “They’re the reason I go to work each day Crosson will spend the next year serving as a national ambassador for educators and students using her platform to advocate for excellence in teaching and to share her insights with audiences across the country “I will be traveling around the country to share our community with our nation’s schools and teachers and to be an advocate for education and for students,” she said Superintendent of Schools Vance Varner touted Crosson’s work at the Mifflin County School District “Her remarkable achievement is a testament to the caliber of educators within our schools,” Varner said in a press release The National Teacher of the Year is the most prestigious teacher recognition program in the country Released from classroom duties for the year the educator — in this case Crosson — works full-time to shine a light on the vital role of teachers from around the country Crosson will speak at more than 150 events each year elevate issues teachers face and inspire others to join the profession Crosson said believes in building a strong curriculum that develops communication skills empowers students to solve problems and expands their worldview Crosson received her master’s degree in educational leadership from Penn State University and a gifted endorsement from Millersville University she became a Fulbright Teachers for Global Classrooms fellow She said receiving that fellowship transformed her pedagogy helping her to reframe curricula around competencies that empower students’ voices Crosson discovered that her teachers and counselors were instrumental to her success She said their support inspired her to become an educator so she could share with another generation what had been given to her Crosson has expanded opportunities for her colleagues and students by launching “MC Goes Global,” an international travel program designed to enhance student learning opportunities her students can be found researching the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and building websites as often as they are reading novels and writing papers Crosson said she strives to create learning experiences that resonate with her students foster empathy and build critical-thinking skills Crosson has positively influenced her students’ academic and career opportunities Many students in the program have found success beyond high school interns at television stations and writers for newspapers “She always goes above and beyond for her students She doesn’t just invest in their education; she invests in their successes far beyond the classroom and I was incredibly lucky to have her not only as an educator but a role model,” said Rainie Miner a 2023 Mifflin County High School graduate “Miss Crosson always went above and beyond to ensure that I — along with every other student she has ever had — has every opportunity possible to become not only the best student but also the best person they can be She has a way of pushing someone out of their comfort zone little by little while making them feel confident and comfortable at the same time She always puts the needs of her students and community above her own and she is truly one of a kind.” Crosson is looking forward to spending a year representing educators and serving as an ambassador for the teaching profession the Council of Chief State School Officers said it was pleased to honor and celebrate the selection of Crosson as its 2025 National Teacher of the Year LEWISTOWN — Two Lewistown residents have announced that they have filed their nominating petitions on the Republican ticket for Lewistown Borough Council for the upcoming municipal primary that will be held on May 20 Gutshall currently serves on Lewistown Borough Council as the chairman of the finance and personnel committees He previously sat on the civil service commission and planning commission for Lewistown Borough Gutshall said he brings 25 years of leadership experience in the manufacturing oil/gas and information technology sectors Gutshall is currently employed as a senior IT operations manager serving the U.S Gutshall owns property in the 7th Ward of Lewistown Borough Knudson currently serves on the Lewistown Rec Board as the chairman and is a member of the law and ordinance committee She previously sat on the civil service commission Knudson serves on the board of the Lewistown Community Garden and participates in the Adopt a Planter Program in downtown Lewistown Knudson has been employed as a researcher at Penn State University for more than 30 years working with families and children in Mifflin County and surrounding areas Knudson owns property in the 5th Ward of Lewistown Borough where she currently resides with her husband The candidates touted their achievements in the last year while serving on the board which includes: no tax increase for 2025; increased financial support for fire and EMS; ended 2024 with a budget surplus in contrast to an inherited $829,000 projected budget deficit; increased government funding by $300,000 in 2024 and $600,000 in 2025; took corrective actions for delinquent utility billing; prioritized ongoing primary wastewater treatment plant digester repairs; revitalized Rec Pool; introduced prayer to council meetings said his priorities will include fiscal responsibility “I bring a fresh perspective to local government from the private sector and will focus on building strong relationships in the community residents of the borough will find an honest and conscientious individual looking out for the best interests of the Borough of Lewistown.” also a resident of Lewistown Borough her entire life and ambitious to see things through to fruition “My love and commitment to Lewistown is unsurpassed The beauty in the area and the compassion in the hearts of the residents is second to none I strive to help make our town the best it can be and hope to be part of the decision making that will continue moving us forward.” believes that “everybody has a story to tell.” His story is one for the books; Zimmerman made his way in Lewistown first as a paper delivery boy He told Fulton Books his story and ultimately published his book “ABC Power Word Fables,” with the company in 2024 Zimmerman’s story begins when he was born in Shamokin he was a paper delivery boy for the Lewistown Sentinel around 1948 Zimmerman delivered newspapers that cost about 3 cents He would get home from school around 3:30 p.m go to the Sentinel press room for a stack of 120 to 130 newspapers “I became pretty strong,” Zimmerman said which he used to call “Church Street” as various churches including the First Methodist Church and many others across the street or along the route Zimmerman said he was introduced to many religions in this way he would encounter Wayne Street School which was next to the county prison He traveled further west along the route before finishing his daily duties for which he received about 20 cents per week Zimmerman also said he developed his values and beliefs as a Boy Scout He was truly an all-American boy with a dad who made it to about fourth or fifth grade and built his family’s home majority by himself Zimmerman set a pole vaulting record of 10 feet winning the pole vaulting event and qualifying for state finals “I think I could do whatever I wanted in life,” Zimmerman thought when he recalled how he felt during his big win He also participated in football and wrestling in addition to his high-achieving track and field days Zimmerman was jersey number 52 and acted as a defensive tackle When Zimmerman experienced pain in football practice he wondered then if old age would be like fighting through his most memorable wrestling match in his junior year of high school he beat the 185-pound weight class and was not pinned when he bridged for a whole class period After he graduated from Lewistown High School in 1954 Zimmerman made many achievements including earning a cum laude degree from the University of Pittsburgh in 1958 After completing an internship and serving as a general medical officer in the U.S he specialized in physical medicine and rehabilitation Zimmerman directed the PM&R residency at St served as president of Pennsylvania’s PM&R Society and was a clinical assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh He retired in 2007 after 39 years in practice and now enjoys gardening and sharing the “ABC Power Word Fables.” or was it determined?” Zimmerman wondered about his family encouraging him to pursue his career path in medicine and teaching Zimmerman was inspired to write his novel over a few years after reading Stephen R Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.” Zimmerman valued Covey’s vision that one must live life with purpose who aims to teach others how to live better he takes care to teach youth and young adults about communication and leadership it’s about Lewistown,” Zimmerman said of his life story and novel Covey was a springboard for Zimmerman to promote his novel to promote individual character development with a principle-centered and effective leadership theme Each story in his novel is of a new fictional character detailing a fantasy story to engage readers seeking entertainment and teach readers valuable life lessons like taking action in life “ABC Power Word Fables” can be found at bookstores LEWISTOWN — Central Montana Medical Center in Lewistown has been selected as one of the top-20 critical access hospitals in the country as determined by the National Rural Health Association The distinction takes into account overall performance “It really helps validate that the work we do is making a difference in our community,” says CMMC’s CEO Cody Langbehn “We're just very proud of all the staff and the good work that they've done,” says CMMC’s Chief Nursing Officer Rob Hicks The Center had already cracked the top-100 list but was pleased to hear they’d made the cut into the top-20 CMMC has been named a top-100 finisher in 10 of the last 11 years The hospital is also just a couple months out from their groundbreaking ceremony for their comprehensive cancer center CMMC previously had the ability to conduct infusions and medical oncology but the addition of a linear accelerator which can administer radiation will bring it all together It will be called the Helmsley Cancer Center in honor of the Helmsley grant The grant has a mission to prevent individuals from traveling more than 100 miles for cancer treatment services “Any radiation is really the one that typically people are driving or receiving therapy every single day for multiple weeks on end,” says Langbehn citing the inconvenience of long commutes which will now be nullified thanks to new technology The cancer center will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 2pm on Friday Report a typo Owen Skornik-Hayes reports on a forum in Lewistown that addressed the issue of predation of livestock by grizzly bears and mountain lions evoke both respect and apprehension among Montanans These iconic animals play a vital role in the ecosystem yet their presence poses genuine risks to both human safety and livestock welfare over $196,000 in claims were filed due to livestock killed by these predators highlighting the urgent need for discussion and action venturing beyond their designated recovery zones in search of food and territory and it’s simple to just sit there all day long in one spot and just eat,” says Trina Jo Bradley Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Front Ranchlands Group This behavioral shift has caught many off guard with grizzly bears now spotted as far east as Lewistown the urgency for solutions became palpable in the meeting Participants discussed how local communities can coexist with these animals while also advocating for more effective collaboration with federal agencies The Northern Continental Divide and Yellowstone ecosystems have fully recovered according to initial federal goals yet the grizzly bear remains listed as an endangered species “There’s no biologist in the world that’s going to tell you that the grizzly bear is endangered There’s plenty of them,” said Ross Butcher ranchers find themselves with limited options when addressing livestock predation “You can’t shoot a grizzly bear if it’s killing your calf You can’t shoot a grizzly bear at all unless it’s killing a person,” added Bradley This reality has spurred local commissioners and advocacy groups to take action They are urging the public to submit comments on a proposed rule change from the U.S Fish and Wildlife Service regarding the 4D rule which governs protective regulations for endangered species Proposed changes could allow ranchers the authority to kill bears that are actively maiming or threatening livestock and property “How do we have input to direct these federal agencies to do their job?” questioned Butcher “Because right now they’re kind of stepping back a member of the Montana Natural Resource Coalition emphasized the importance of local management over federal oversight His goal is to prioritize the management of lands and resources among local governments and residents As the discussion around bear management continues inputs on grizzly management are still being accepted by the U.S Residents are encouraged to engage with the process and make their voices heard regarding how to best balance wildlife protection with ranchers' livelihoods For more information on how to submit your comments and participate in the ongoing dialogue, click here. (https://www.fws.gov/grizzlyrulemaking) GREAT FALLS — An investigation is continuing into the death several months ago of five-year old Iris McCarter in Lewistown Many people have contacted KRTV in recent days about the case; when we contacted the LPD on Monday we were told that the investigation is "ongoing," and the agency declined to release any information the agency said in a news release that investigators are still waiting for the submittal of a Medical Examiner report and death certificate The LPD said that once all of the information has been received investigators will review the case in conjunction with the Fergus County Attorney and other relevant agencies and people to determine the next court of action Police Chief Justin Jenness noted that his office is working with the Fergus County Attorney's Office Jenness added: "The Lewistown Police Department understands that incidents such as these can become emotionally charged topics within the community and we ask for everyone's patience as the investigation is completed Several people have shared what they claim are screenshots of medical reports and photos of the child but we have not been able to verify their accuracy We will update you when we get more information Russell Epperson shared the video above of a one-horse open sleigh in Lewistown on Saturday 2025: "Santa with his jingle bell sleigh is prepping for next year Hope he stays warm as he rides around Lewistown MT!" Three teams won comfortably while one held on to prevail in the final moments in the first round of the Class A football playoffs Whitefish and Columbia Falls all advanced to next week's quarterfinal round with home victories Friday night advanced to the quarterfinals with a 37-7 rout of Miles City improved to 8-2 with the win and moved on to play at Dillon Miles City ended its season with a 5-5 record The Blue Ponies (7-3) earned a road date with undefeated Frenchtown (9-0) East Helena was vying for the program's first playoff victory The Vigilantes ended the season with a 5-5 mark Whitefish saw a 17-0 lead evaporate but was rescued by a Carson Gulick touchdown with less than a minute left to claim the win The Bulldogs (7-3) will travel to East top-seed Billings Central (9-0) in the quarterfinals next week also made it through to the quarterfinal round with a 42-16 win over Corvallis improved to 7-2 and will visit Laurel (7-2) Corvallis finished its season with a 5-4 overall mark She was preceded in death by her paternal grandmother Miley attended the Little Valley Presbyterian Church She was a 2024 graduate of the Mifflin County High School where she had fond memories of working with the drama club and being inducted into the Thespian Society Miley was a happy soul with a beautiful smile and great laugh She maintained a positive attitude throughout her medical issues She enjoyed working with residents of Valley View Haven and had her heart set on becoming a nurse There will be a visitation at the church beginning at 10 a.m Interment will follow in the Little Valley Cemetery memorial contributions may be made in Miley’s memory to: Rescue Our Furry Friends (R.O.F.F) Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstinefuneralhome.com LEWISTOWN — When it comes to family time there are plenty of great examples of television families that come to mind — the Bradys Family activities are the theme this weekend as the LUMINA Center and the Barnyard the LUMINA Center hosts family activity night from 6 to 8 p.m Attendees can enjoy Earth Day-themed games and activities 204 Barnyard Boulevard in Lewistown is holding family bingo night from 5:30 to 9 p.m Proceeds benefit the Penn Roosevelt Camp and Lodge McAlisterville Youth Baseball and Mifflin County Eagles 17-Under by attending bingo in Port Royal from noon to 5 p.m Doors will open at noon with the games starting at 1 p.m There will also be a mini jackpot of $200 and a big jackpot of $500 Tickets cost $25 in advance and $30 at the door $5 for children ages 6 to12 and free for ages under 6 Proceeds benefit the Juniata County Library and Juniata County Food Pantry Bake sale and side dishes also available for purchase Christ’s United Lutheran “4 Bells” Church Advanced orders may be placed at www.4bellschurch.com or by calling (570) 716-5601 Drive-through walk-in orders are also available • Paisley Henry Family Benefit Spaghetti Dinner Join the fire company for a meal to raise funds with medical bills for Paisley and her family Belleville Mennonite School will hold its 60th Annual Auction on Friday and Saturday at the school located at 4105 Front Mountain Road in Belleville A bountiful turkey dinner kicks off the event from 5 to 7 p.m followed by a youth auction and a gift certificate auction the merchandise auction features a variety of items with a featured quilt sold at the top of each hour salads and soft-serve ice cream will be available or visit https://cbo.io/bidapp/index/.php?slug=auction25 to view a complete listing of auction items and event details • Early Bird Camping Weekend at Christian Retreat Center Activities for the entire family with scenic trails to explore Visit crctims.org to reserve a spot or call (717) 734-3627 hosted by Central Pennsylvania Clinic (CPC) Many of their patients have rare conditions sometimes called “zebra disorders,” that have never been heard of by the general population CPC is hosting this run to raise awareness for the rare disease community Please register at the Poe Valley office or find them on Facebook will hold its second annual open house from 9 a.m Come spend the day with them and enjoy the following: a tour of the fire hall; see fire apparatus on display (take photos with the rigs) light refreshments and entertainment with a deejay • Adult Prom Night and Live Music by Nine D email the details to events@lewistownsentinel.com where residents are still digging out from a big dumping of snow over the weekend The town officially received two feet of snow Lewistown Public Schools will again be closed on Tuesday: "Lewistown Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday 2025 as we are not able to provide bus service and safe access to our school buildings We want to give the city and school more time to deal with snow removal We plan to resume normal classes on Wednesday School in Geyser has also been canceled for Tuesday Donald Bren has been living in Lewistown for 40 years and this weekend’s snow is some of the most he has seen there's only one other one that really matches that He has been shoveling since Sunday to get his car out of the driveway he is trying to get over the berm the city plowed for his doctor’s appointment tomorrow I can't figure out how I'm going to get through that.” “I think I was glad I got groceries on Friday before the storm came.” Jeanette Miller and Hamilton expected some snow my sidewalk was clear and there was nothing on my car The progress people have made is a community effort others are making the most of the situation Casey Butcher couldn’t get her car out from the snow but found the snowed-over roads were perfect for winter memories who just turned one in our… sled and pull him around.” but businesses like Rising Trout Coffee are still open offering warm beverages to those out and about you need some breakfast… And we had travelers who were who came and sat down and had breakfast this morning.” but Milhon never considered taking the day off And so the normal traffic we get from local people is the people are working on getting out of the snow.” and two feet of snow isn’t going to stop them “We're just having a good time out in the snow The Rams defeated Lewistown in the Class A football semifinals 34-14 Saturday at Herb Klindt Field BILLINGS — Billings Central’s do-everything player, Jack DeBourg, put on a show and with a solid all-around game, the second-ranked Rams are heading back to the State A championship football game yet beautiful afternoon Saturday at Herb Klindt Field in the Class A semifinals Billings Central's Jack DeBourg celebrates a touchdown during a 34-14 Class A semifinal football victory over Lewistown at Herb Klindt Field on Saturday DeBourg scored three touchdowns for the Rams “They were giving me really good opportunities to get into the end zone,” said DeBourg after as supporters of the Rams greeted the team on the field DeBourg scored Central’s first two touchdowns on runs of 5 and 4 yards to give the Rams a 13-0 lead with 14.9 seconds left in the first quarter He also tacked on a touchdown in the fourth on a 10-yard run as Central built a 34-7 lead with 6:14 remaining in regulation DeBourg is also Central’s kicker and punter and finished 4 of 5 on extra-point attempts DeBourg also ran the ball 26 times for 112 yards and added six tackles on defense the Rams will be hosting the State A championship game next weekend on the campus of Rocky Mountain College at Herb Klindt Field “It feels great,” said DeBourg of the Rams earning the opportunity to host the State A title game Ayden Salter took the opening kickoff at his 15 and returned it to the Lewistown 31-yard line. On the next play, Montana State commit Vinnie Souza — who finished with 77 rushing yards on seven carries — ran the ball for 20 yards That carry along with a penalty for a horse-collar tackle put the ball at the 5-yard line On the next play DeBourg scored his first touchdown with 11:36 on the clock and the Rams were on their way Billings Central's Vinnie Souza rushes past the Lewistown defense during a Class A semifinal football game at Herb Klindt Field on Saturday Souza was pumped up that the Rams would be playing in the championship game I’ve visualized this since I could play football,” Souza said Souza said the Rams, who defeated Laurel 31-7 on Sept. 20 in Laurel, will be focused in their preparation for the Locomotives we’ve got to show up and just play our best game to beat them.” DeBourg said the Rams will have time to prepare for Laurel but right after the game he was more concerned with how his team performed on Saturday against Lewistown “Most importantly I just get another week with my guys “That’s what means more to me than the opponent or whatever; just another week with my guys is what I’m thinking about right now.” Central rushed the ball 54 times for 259 yards and quarterback Howie Martin was 7 of 11 passing for 80 yards Kael Aldrich caught three passes for 68 yards for the Rams The Rams’ defense limited Lewistown to 60 yards on 18 carries Lewistown quarterback McKay Shobe was 11 of 24 for 176 yards William Snell returned a punt 65 yards for a touchdown and a DeBourg extra-point kick gave the Rams a 20-0 lead at 10:18 of the second Martin scored Central’s other touchdown on a three-yard run at 5:56 of the third for a 27-7 advantage Rams 23rd-year coach Jim Stanton has guided the team to State A championships in 2007, 2012 and 2018, and State A runner-up finishes in 2004, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2013, 2020 and 2022 He’s happy to have another opportunity to compete in the championship game with this group of players Billings Central football coach Jim Stanton is pictured watching his Rams play the Lewistown Golden Eagles in the Class A football semifinals on Saturday at Herb Klindt Field “Any time you get back in the title game it’s a great feeling,” Stanton said And our coaching staff did a great job of putting everything together Their kids came out and gave us everything we could handle Lewistown, which was defeated by Central in both of the teams’ matchups this season, finishes its year 9-3 Madden Norslien scored on a 29-yard pass from Shobe for Lewistown’s first touchdown at 4:51 of the second The Golden Eagles’ other score came on a 19-yard run by Shobe with 5:18 left Emmett Netburn made both extra-points for Lewistown “They make you play sound defensively and sound offensively we needed things to go our way to beat a good ballclub like that We had a couple opportunities that we didn’t capitalize on early “Our kids played hard to the whistle and I’m proud of them for that.” Central was going to enjoy the win and then it’s back to work on Monday in preparation for Laurel “The same thing we’ve done all these other weeks,” said DeBourg when asked how the Rams would prepare for Laurel trust what they’re telling us and just execute.” Lewistown and Billings Central face off in a Class A semifinal game at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Billings Central's William Snell rushes past Lewistown defense during a Class A semifinal game at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Lewistown's Dash Ruff rushes past Billings Central defense during a Class A semifinal game at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Billings Central's Ayden Salter is knocked out of bounds just short of a touchdown by Lewistown's Dash Ruff during a Class A semifinal game at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Lewistown's McKay Shobe throws a pass during their Class A semifinal game against Billings Central at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Lewistown football head coach Derek Lear cheers on the Golden Eagles during their Class A semifinal game against Billings Central at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Billings Central's Ayden Salter rushes past Lewistown's McKay Shobe during a Class A semifinal game at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Billings Central's Jack DeBourg kicks the point after touchdown after also scoring the touchdown during Billings Central's Class A semifinal game against Lewistown at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday The Billings Central football team makes their way onto the field at the kick off of their Class A semifinal game against Lewistown at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Billings Central football fans cheer on William Snell as he scores a 65-yard touchdown during their Class A semifinal game against Lewistown at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Lewistown fans stand and cheer on the football team during their Class A semifinal game against Billings Central at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College on Saturday Email Gazette Sports Editor John Letasky at john.letasky@406mtsports.com or follow him on X/Twitter at @GazSportsJohnL In the Billings area on Semifinal Saturday Red Lodge and Bridger are all hosting games A balanced attack has put the Rams in position to contend but they're focused on Lewistown this week Souza was an all-state football player and was a first-team all-Eastern A conference cornerback as a junior for the Rams last season Jack DeBourg had four first-half rushing touchdowns for Central while quarterback Howie Martin had three total scores (two passing The Rams have won their past four (non-forfeited) games by a combined score of 188-14 shifting into another gear for the second half of the season With the Locomotives trying to keep it a low-scoring battle the Rams turned on the jets late to pick up a huge state-ranked rivalry win Highlights from across the state for the semifinals of high school football playoffs While the Rams have a high-powered offense Burt and his Locomotives teammates will battle Billings Central on Saturday The Rams and Locomotives will tussle on Saturday at 1 p.m at Herb Klindt Field at Rocky Mountain College The Rams defeated their archrival in front of a large crowd on Saturday at chilly Herb Klindt Field at William Penn Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center she was a daughter of the late Robert and Phyllis (Reigle) Rhoades Kelli proudly cherished her eight grandchildren She was a Kishacoquillas High School graduate Early in life Kelli was employed at Scotty’s Fashions and Jamesway She worked at Jamesway until the birth of her second son she began a 30-year career with Lewistown Hospital where she worked to serve our local healthcare community in Mifflin County Kelli was often one of the faces that you would see at your worst time as she registered you into the Lewistown Hospital Emergency Room Kelli always fondly reflected upon her time working in the ER and was fortunate to have met some of the most wonderful people in her life today Kelli has been not only surrounded by family throughout her battle but also by a very strong and adoring group of friends whom we cannot show enough appreciation for most caring and loving people that you could know She spent much of her life putting those around her first as she deeply cared for her family and friends Kelli passed her caring nature and community service mindset onto her own children and they continue the legacy by teaching her grandchildren Her strength and unconditional love inspired many as a friend Kelli was an avid Penn State fan and had a great love for pets Kelli loved vacationing and preferred being on a sunny Atlantic Ocean beach more than anything with family or friends Kelli was very active in the community throughout her life with various memberships to many local clubs and organizations over the years She was always willing to help someone in any way she could This is a culture that runs throughout her family and is continued She was most recently a member of Lewistown Elks Lodge No 663 where she held the position of Head Trustee Kelli and her sister Randi supported the Milroy Fireman’s Carnival for several decades and most recently she worked with her oldest son David in support of the Embassy Spring Fair and other local events Kelli always enjoyed catering meals for events with her family and friends a family activity started many years ago between Kelli and her sister Randie A viewing will be held after the funeral service from 6:30 to 8 p.m In lieu of flowers as we continue Kelli’s service to her community memorial contributions in Kelli’s memory may be made to the Lewistown Elks Lodge No Online condolences may be offered to the family at www.hellerhoenstine funeralhome.com BILLINGS — Using its patented rushing attack Billings Central powered its way into the Class A state championship game with a 34-14 semifinal victory over Lewistown on Saturday at Herb Klindt Field Jack DeBourg rushed for 112 yards and three touchdowns for the Rams who piled up 259 rushing yards as a team while advancing to the state title game for the 13th time in school history Central (11-0) will face archrival Laurel (9-2) for next week's championship It will be a rematch of the 2020 title game It will be just the second time the rivals will meet for the state crown Central took a two-score lead in the first quarter on consecutive touchdown runs by DeBourg then went ahead 20-0 thanks to a 65-yard punt return for a touchdown by William Snell Quarterback Howie Martin added a 2-yard TD run for the Rams in the third quarter and DeBourg capped Central's scoring with a 10-yard run in the fourth quarter Next week the Rams will be looking to win the sixth title in program history where the annual Montana Winter Fair is underway from January 24 through January 26 DILLON — When Lewistown freshman Madden Norslien intercepted Dillon’s Canin Christiansen and returned it for a touchdown in the first quarter of Saturday’s Class A quarterfinal game it foreshadowed what much of the matchup would go on to look like A smothering defensive effort from Lewistown and plenty of offensive struggles for Dillon The Golden Eagles forced six turnovers in a 21-13 victory to punch their ticket to the Class A semifinals for the fourth consecutive season “I don’t think there were a lot of people that believed in us but we sure did We sure did,” Lewistown quarterback/defensive back McKay Shobe told 406 MT Sports after the win “This is one of the greatest feelings in my sporting career.” Lewistown’s most recent semifinal appearance was a defeat in Dillon last season the Golden Eagles avenged that loss to make it back to Class A’s final four you got to play well and ultimately our kids made some plays when we needed to,” Lewistown head coach Derek Lear said “I know it’s nice for these boys to get back down here and be on the good side of this thing.” It was a stout defensive performance from the Golden Eagles as they shut the Beavers out in the first half and took a 14-0 lead into the break The Beavers got on the board on their opening drive of the second half with a direct snap to tight end Carter Curnow The Montana State commit appeared to get hurt on the play and didn’t return to the game That was Dillon’s only score until Christiansen connected with Kyler Engellant on a 16-yard touchdown with 12 seconds to go It was a tough day for the defending state champions as they struggled to move the ball offensively six turnovers was too much to overcome for the Beavers as they suffered their second loss since the start of the 2023 season Shobe scored a pair of rushing touchdowns and had a defensive interception as well Norslien picked off Christiansen twice in the victory While the semifinals have become familiar for the Golden Eagles they had an uphill battle this season after graduating many contributors from last year’s team But with the eight seniors on the roster and loads of underclassmen Lewistown was motivated to get it done with this group After a pair of hiccups this season in losses to Billings Central and Laurel Saturday’s win was payoff for the hard work put in since the offseason “I think we had some doubters this year and I think these kids were hungry They wanted to prove the doubters wrong,” Lear said Four consecutive semifinal appearances doesn’t happen by accident according to Lear He credits past Golden Eagles for getting the program to where it is now “I go back to the alumni that have graduated I think they set a standard at Fergus High School that we really hadn’t had in a long time Those boys kind of laid the foundation and these kids just continue and continue and continue,” Lear said The Golden Eagles will face the winner of Saturday night’s matchup between Billings Central and Whitefish in the semifinals next week Dillon’s Ian Singleton (7) is tackled by Lewistown's Kaelen Krumwiede (60) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Canin Christiansen (4) receives the snap during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Grass stains are seen on Lewistown's Dash Ruff's jersey during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) is trailed by Dillon’s Ian Singleton (7) as he drives into the Beavers' defensive line during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Sam Davis (14) and Dillon’s Robbie Wharton (21) contest a pass intended for Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Madden Norslien (2) intercepts a pass intended for Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) thrown by Dillon’s Canin Christiansen (4) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Robbie Wharton (21) contests a pass with Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Fergus fans react to an interception by Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) is tackled by Lewistown's McKay Shobe (20) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) contests a pass with Lewistown's Madden Norslien (2) and Lewistown's McKay Shobe (20) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) is tackled by Lewistown's Brendin Fiscus (14) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Kyler Engellant (9) receives a pass from Dillon’s Canin Christiansen (4) scoring a touchdown for the Beavers defended by Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Carter Curnow (5) rolls into the endzone for a touchdown defended by Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) kicks for the extra point during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) is tackled by Dillon’s Hank Hagenbarth (15) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) kicks off with the Beavers during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Conner Miller (13) is tackled by Dillon’s Severen Meier (52) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) and Dillon’s Ian Singleton (7) contest a pass during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Dash Ruff (3) intercepts a pass throw by Dillon’s Canin Christiansen (4) intended for Dillon’s Sawyer Tackett (80) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Madden Norslien (2) receives a pass defended by Dillon’s Layne Phillips (11) and Dillon’s Kyler Engellant (9) during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Lewistown's Andrew Kuhlmann (56) celebrates the Golden Eagles' 21-13 win over the Beavers during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon head coach Zach McRae addresses the team after their 21-13 loss to the Golden Eagles during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Dillon’s Kyler Engellant (9) huddles with the Beavers and head coach Zach McRae after their 21-13 loss to the Golden Eagles during the Class A playoff game between Dillon and Lewistown on Saturday Gavin Derkatch is a sports reporter for the Montana Standard. Follow him on Twitter @GDerkatch or email him gavin.derkatch@406mtsports.com Roundup of scores from the quarterfinal round of the Montana high school football playoffs Nov Scores from around Montana during the 2024 high school football season Trailing by 10 points late in the third quarter the Havre football team came alive and surged past previously unbeaten Frenchtown Saturday Columbia Falls nearly came all the way back from a 28-point deficit but the Locomotives held on and earned a home game in next week's semifinals where breaking news in Montana State Government is posted for various state agencies – Governor Greg Gianforte announced today that the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) in partnership with the Department of Defense (DOD) has formalized an agreement to replace 11 bridges in the Lewistown area as part of the Sentinel Missile project “Montana plays a key role in the national security of the United States,” Gov “Today’s announcement will allow MDT to move forward with replacing 11 aging bridges that serve the Lewistown community and will support the Sentinel Missile program I’m grateful to MDT and Director Dorrington for prioritizing this important project.” The project includes replacing 11 aging and deteriorated bridges on or near MT 81 in the Lewistown area Eight of the structures were identified by Malmstrom Air Force Base as needing replacement The remaining three bridges were nominated by MDT to be replaced The partnership with DOD will utilize an innovative project delivery method called Progressive Design-Build (PDB) to replace Montana’s aging bridges where both the design and construction are under one contract accommodates DOD and MDT input into the design and will expedite project delivery DOD will provide $7 million in funding through the Defense Access Road Program MDT and DOD will contract with Montana companies Sletten Construction and Morrison-Maierle for the project is facing an onslaught of bridges reaching end-of-service life and we simply don’t have the resources to replace them all at once,” said MDT Director Chris Dorrington “We are working every angle to improve this ensuring efficient environmental approvals and bundling multiple bridge replacements per contract We are grateful for the opportunity to work with DOD on this project as the Lewistown community prepares for the Sentinel Missile program.” According to the Air Force Global Strike Command Sentinel is the weapon system proposed to replace the aging Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile system It represents the modernization of the land-based leg of the U.S For more information on the Sentinel project, visit here.