W W e W eee W ell S ell SS Sell ell
PRST STD PRST PRST STDSTD PRST STD PRST STD US POSTAGE US POSTAGE US POSTAGE US POSTAGE PAID PAID PAID PAID STEVENSVILLE MT MT STEVENSVILLE STEVENSVILLE MT MT STEVENSVILLE MT STEVENSVILLE PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT
lLicenSeS icenSeS icenses l icenSeS l
PERMIT 89
OOUTLET utlet StOre STORE OUTLET STORE
Fall or alyOur lyour your a Am mmmunition unition FOr*all mmunitiOn For or all a F your &H unting Na eemmunition ds && H unting n eedS *LH a runting ge selectin oneedS of AR-15 Rifl fle es & H unting n eedS
777-2822 03•4 •H777-2822 w y 9N. 3 N. • • 40344Hwy 93 St4039 evensHWY ville 93 93 NN N Stevensville, 4034 HWY 93 STEVENSVILLE 406.777.2822 (406) 777-2822 STEVENSVILLE www.ammoandmorestore.com
www.amwww.ammoandmorestore.com moandmorestore.com www.ammoandmorestore.com
Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B e h ‘T Volume XLI, Number 40 Volume XXXVII, Number 37 29 39 Volume XXXIX, Number 35 30 XXXVII, Number 28 Volume XXXIX, Number 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, April 15, 2026 Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Wednesday, January 26, 13, 2024 Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2, April 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Former firefighter files grievance Coffee withheld theCandidate Candidate! Eagles in winter Coffee with the Groundbreaking for medical center Bitter Root Humane Association Three Every Mile Community Center open Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville Every Tuesday 7am - 9am at the Frontier Cafe in Stevi
speech, occupa-
by Victoria Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com by Victoria HowellStephen Kowal shelter. $140,000. for Ravalli County Find out more at could stephenkowal.com Howell by Michael Howell andAccording wells. Irrigation will be Commissioner concerns about the potenherald major by Kristin Kruse Thechanges park
a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical ty for failing to do the proper additional impact on people’s Paid by STEPHEN KOWAL FOR RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONER, Box 131 Stevensville, 59870.in similar therapy services – provided by for shares from tial impacts toPOthe roads, to MTother the subdivision review the environmental by John Dowd space filled up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.of It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property taxes. The Ravalli County Eight Mile Creek Company. public safety, to wildlife, and process across the state impacts by handing off its the including therapy The event drew over 220 people the presentation into other rooms and the Sheep Creek Mine proposal. The Hamilton TrapThree Club has Schmiedeke, coming, but the new the decision In addition to thea loan, Bitterroot Health Commissioners gave condiAccording to the prelimito the rural character of the was also discussed. In that mandated duties to other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people were lined up out the door. Ramsey is a founder of the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. “It was Mile Center is up who serves on to take out project was for by the been fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging held aaCommunity groundbreakby Michael Howell anda cut the ribbon atpaid last week’s tional approval last week to the subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper Missouri agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG Oswald heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as well as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the Senior ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments expressed concern Waterkeepers and a group ous specific, documentable, was attended by people from all over Ranch in Florence, gave a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, a resident of the West Fork. He has Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the the project. Center (the official name) trap enthusiasts and hunting Bishop said “It An open house celebration was organization’s 50 years of service, for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents living close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and in school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sothey hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root was started by a bunch of little old by John Dowd ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel the Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the environment as complex will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and as farsuch away as of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, compete and hone their Humane Association’s (BRHA) new ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by amay the facility open of agricultural land and 264 new vehicalready experiencing a Hills in subdivision challenged the decreasing water abunHelena even into Idaho. This (RCFWA), on Creek by the Bitterroot chapter are of Trout Unmetal contamination rivers. HeFarmers has ingformerly contains athe large meeting they started State and rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also functions as Mine a District built just of Sheep Last weekend the Bitter animal located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular tripslimited. per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County and been in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit the Stevensville at thesupporting Humane Association participatMile and Upper road system. Additionally, having tothe Bitterroot the Department of Natural analyze the impacts on the RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Butts, President of the president ofRoad the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, andand hassome been alreadyhis bio on Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this ain 2012 their loan Kathieto nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in BitteraofnationWoodchuck Road east the be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. double purpose. included Board, said, “This organization has system, and a gorgeous view a ribbon andapplicant incorpo- is proposing to payments contributors were the Three programs such as It The on continuing to al “slumber party” event. Creek Road and by Victoria Howell Hamilton Rural Fireby 100allegations of operational inef- about the Florence. The land is honor being dedicate a 100-foot were also expressed (DNRC) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains toand rated in 2014. Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of thethe new a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. According toThe club expand services. Bitterroot shelter branded their District, which contracts for fireficiencies, a decline in morale Hwy 93. developed by Laura Watson of foot easement for the use and impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thata the the west.including She said the Those payRock 50 Park andago. the Rapp Fammembers, hundredstours of kids havewhole facility, of the started about years I feel event the “Slumber Pawty,” which fighting services with the City of and welfare, lapses in safety Tara Walker is a longtime “We’re bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was benefit of the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or duty to provide the statutorily The building is now home total cost is ments come ily Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and array of food and huge sense of responsibility to honor Hamilton. The Hamilton City and a lackCreek of communication Bitterroot resident withto aand hisopened the shelter community represented by the engineerFire District and contribute Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife on nearby required information lies with care to the patients, to the senior center the approximateout of park Schmiedeke said there over the years. Along with their terroot CEO, drink inHealth honor ofinthe organization’s those who have come before us and ” tory of involvement social is- to Council employs the fire chief. Rural and after and a votethe of no confi- on Eight Mile members who participated stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence impacts landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are it as were many who own programs, the club supports said. 50th birthday. make good as he itvolunteers can be as we set said that Marcus sues. A survivor ofthe sexual abuse A new $5-million-plus taxpaydence. Creek. the night with animals, among Consultants Inc. (PCI). Fire District. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect in its imthat serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has raised over Hedgeby John Dowd the course for the nextLois 50 years.” private non-profi t organization andThe a member of the Blackfeet er-funded fireCommissioners station opened “In the vote no conDaly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 proposal ispark for sinThe A of recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can TheThe surrounding conSchmiedeke assessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners and Nation, she was instrumental in Hamilton in 2024. Up until fidence letter, that’s when chair the McCormack said that the ofwithout was fiSaturday rst organized inuse 1972.SunIn 1984, noon and 12 noon gle-family residential received dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a peth, subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Hope Project. The ItMontana is often that in the passage ofsaid legislation inovernight then, there had never been a MileI first learned that there Center board members, l to r, ColThree Community Senior organization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed hospital board, with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County that DNRC. He criticized the counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the is proud that general contractor donated laclub is utilized by local schools, 2017 known asowned “Tara’s Law,” wore woman on the force. were problems, I was and Wendy Audiss in front of the little locally leen Schmiedeke, Joycethat Pando SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the shelter animals, fundraisingSee campaign to fund the new granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, a walking a playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts which establishes curriculum “When I first applied,” to up against something bigger bookstores are aaon waning See CENTER, page pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then the Covid-19 the BRHA land Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic be a volunteer raised Bitterroot about has been four years3 and Triple Creek Ranch, for schools to teach children firefighterChamber with than me,” said Walker. “IAl didMitchell holds the group spell-boundhave of Commerce Director as Bit-to run business. However, the among in support of the shelter. pandemic hit and construction with a 99-year lease. Six years later, others. about body encouraging the Hamiltonter Volunteer Fire not know that the Member fitness testSue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon in the works, costs but folks that safety, own Chapter Root Humane Association Board Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey deeded recalls Walker, them to set boundaries and estate they were using and that they The current executive di- Department, One Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured fifth from left, leads a gathering of people involved in the celebrating the opening of the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the held had to take out a mortgage to finish the land totake the organization where educating them oncountry what to do if the “I wasn’t trying to be the first wrote themselves was keeping rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project in a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on thethere property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Trap Club members line up department. forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kristin Kruse. something makes them uncomwoman. I didn’t know women off the the current shelter is located. The to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, 5 See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fundpandemic. She said2 fortable. Walker has worked hadn’t been any women.” I’ve always been into fitness, shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and particon several other laws as well, Walker said she was driving so when I first applied, the their vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel do. Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an byto Nathan Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the ipants each work to raise funds including a House Resolution by the brand new fire station, physical standards test was to act now, and stay ahead of this.” the Stevensville business,” according to encountered people most important donate to their respective shelters. thatHamilton designates April 7 as Sexual and she wondered what it would just an afterthought, no big City Council met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling victim way to combat the Hamilton Downtown facility will besuch more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as beendeal. providing “quality, Assault Survivors Day (which be like to be a woman and serve But Chief Mohn had Individual businesses day, Marchcommunity 5They to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. abuse is for people Association. will of a “medical center” rather than just a just happened totobethe thefundraiser, date on the volunteer fire depart- accessible, even said at meetings that thisHamilton. also donated personalized upcoming city projects. at thewas time, though may 901 S. 1st Street, recently Asinto aneed certified shipto ask also celebrating 50 of thisbe interview). She is the However, ment. testthey was put placetoto keep amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said thatquestions Marcus Daly The new 12-acre campus will care” for 90 people years. when the meeting opened, concern look into it ashealth “more and more presented with a Certificate of ping depot for FedEx, and start the conyears of operation. mother of two and works as an “I’ve always had an altruistic Murphy. She led the Saturday. Hospital, which isversation a critical with access provide primary, care, urgent care and about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.” Farrenkopf In recent years, theyShoppe Appreciation by Mayor Domithe Boxxe those Chapter One has three See GRIEVANCE, page 4 employment specialist at Ravalli mindset… I’ve always wanted to by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants aServices meeting held aaccordcouple weeksserve earsaidand that was all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the nic Farrenkopf Hamilton is legally justified you know and in Hamilton. my community,” she said. co-owners, and have been taking steps a lengthy fund fund bythe Victoria Howell me like a ton of of slumber party, and a barbeTara Walker, in her firefighter turlier, made it into the opening. After the time. However, at the end of the Police Stephen Snavely. open package which doesn’t Hamilton Fire This Chief happened to be just nation for quality by Staub the national ratingThe to one of them, Every year, theMara Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest ingear all theacommucue was held atVolunteer noon on Saturday, noutnon-agenda after becoming the first bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his the meeting, during the items Department wasthat established after former long-time fire chief, In presentation to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming all of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in period, the Burnt Fork area lately to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of the Bitterroot, When itdepartment comes on the Volunteer beloved long-time city who discussion several ofHamilton the couninciation 1897. The is clerk, Brad Mohn, resigned from Council onhad March 15th, Chiefwoman label. After following of what potential of the many ways works to they affect conseroverall, doing very well visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. by Victoria Howell are being recruited. There will also be he said, with clinics in to Covid, Greg sent home from Fire Department. Photo courtesy retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s currently comprised of both the the 28-man department followSnavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successvation in the Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Many ofthe the participants that The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet has a the hospital with Hamilton City Fire Department ing an investigation regarding Tara Walker. During public period comments. Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of she knows that they ful. Joined by the other showing revenues over various projects and programs. spent night were will kids. During tional Forest (BNF) The Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message for you: of the the council meeting, Robert “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. toStein“become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One such program is their the slumber party, participants host a public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February is hoff stood toNeyenhuis, address the council. He things saidthat council member Jenny “It the He was home for don’t fool around! the good happen able toWest. uncover to departments say12th. they This are shipand Marisa most while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” this Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers or Overstreet, two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having expenses have only Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. awards three winners who can 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing11 his experiof the paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share Association informationand Troutence Wildlife thoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, commondue tactics for and former council member, public at the next Halfway through celebration. projections in large to do it related all. “Wetocouldn’t private practice in hismeeting oxygen level fields conservation, Unlimby Victoria regarding theHowell developited. The meeting called uponsuch Dr.appears Philcouncil members. opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the part to jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural to be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, ment of a draft foreston the dangers lip Ramsey to speak In discussion regular agenda by Victoria Howell tainearly the learning environments platforms for curriculum andfilled. asup 41%. Hesendsaid from schoolsa can’t “Many peopleFreeman are defi- is also In March, a custom-onwe wasgone unwittingly claiming county’s performance have yetto torepbe said Luther. The spread sciences. event. thethat chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with normalThennis. of his efforts tofor teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management At the second regular have in place our kids. That is sessment, business administration operate without the technology, nitely on a fixed income, and so of a proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, the first to be brought forward er came to the Boxxe Shoppe ing to a scammer in resent the IRS or looking pretty One of bigthe savings was in of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one council and mayor how local andgood, the vice chair Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I saywe. We getisCommittee, Plan (CMP). The tional council members. School districts invirtual three “I Bitterthe heart of the issue.” and rotation for laptops and vendors have changed tojokingly a are what we get, and we software, meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to thought was the issue of re-roofing the city intending toof send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds for ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. Now by John Dowd that as the executive director. of the winners to receive a Mara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo by John Dowd. which he’s been onby for 12 years. A real estate February of 2021. that 51 is brain Christine Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo Nameeting will beto held on See BOOKS, page 18 root Valley communities will have Thennis said that the safety levy and Chromebooks, and more. mechanism where you’re buying have to make that work.” government should run. He “We’ll do our job, ” said it wasn’t going affect me, but I street shop. According to Hamilton via FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, on After it was announced that he would be Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 in the Bitterroot, He wentSee through damage material.” recent bond Zoom. below forspring. than Boddy. levies the ballot this will allow the district retain perKonen saidSometimes about a fifth and thealso subscriptions and licenses election for years $49 here learned that it would only take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer they was a frequent commenter Gibson retiring, hetowas asked to speak, and was got intoper it because heA owns thein Paper valley. For him, the experienceof has been Onon Wednesday, March 27, the who graduated high school in January 27, town clerk Jenelle the Army for 21 years, his organizational and instructions and a link Mail-in ballots go out to voters on sonnel, such as a School Resource equipment that the students use 10 device, making it more and more million for a new middle school chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Seewith COUNTY, page seemed con-introduced will tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join the meeting. Five April 17 August andSteinhoff are due back bythat May 5. Officer, behavior specialist, social needs tothat be replaced year. expensive. building did not pass, following fundraising skills, and discipline, haveevery been putHe to in he was wasthe no joke. “It fused and unOver a loved one has hurting.” said he heard plow storage for other maintehosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law andand the current executive suggested to him thatattempts. he victims, get involved peoplevictims all over the valley,” and all of it completed a she semester of college the last administration. In from Hamilton, was recpotential but wishes workers and nurses. said during the COVID pandemic, “We don’t want to put our kids two similar meetings audience that was having good use as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee. told that cancer familiar with of so herbad I felt landed in jail,rewarding.” or that a prize about thethe track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According Ra- course director. Al gave a history of front thetochamto got network. thenothers got onto has been “extremely for members, giving their report, and submitted herin transcript within the commuHamilton “We comment, want to protect those all the districtshopes purchased a lot of in offor more screens; we just Hethat “But this isthe justboard to continue public Crews told ognized stepping in (virtual) were held Freeman saidAlthe committee trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a to feeraise needs had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was not very mer, it is the original roof, which has in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding proof of compLeting nity would help her look out The Hamilton School District is trained people we have in place,” tech equipment, but it’s now outwant to make sure the infrastrucoperating the way we’ve been op2021. the council that those makto handle the the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rodeo and Staub Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsome significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said they have planned for the upcoming bers during that time that led up to him the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the adviassociated courses. These are running a $475,000 safety levy and said Thennis. dated. He said that every student ture is taken care of,” said Thennis. erating,” said Thennis. “This is just for their safety. At least one In addition to the by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers ingThe public comment caseload of Town pany has supposedly been in the state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he into said. on October was being water taking on theshould position. Throughout he care knew Jodi, her year. During the meeting, itThe was also the former YouTube chantwo of several criteria appliasurgery $430,000 technology levy. district currently has two fromhelping 4th grade uptransition has awill one-to-one “You’re hearing moreAttorney and more really taking of ourselves andfor ofthat thetime, potential victims she sor opportunity to learn In addition to the custom leathpicious when has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, and each time left - one will cut down on theBitterroot heating bill and thatwhile “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged address the mayor, not the Greg Overstreet he was 23, 2021 for ostomy boarded, or what “The story of the Valley 55 board members and participated the role. Al will be retiring in August this announced that long-time member, Al safety levy would be a permanent SRO’s is paid through the device. about districts are moving not relying on others.” cants must meet to be eligible aided was a resident at a local nel they had was no longer about and participate in Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Allen (left. Photo courtesy considering recovered address, but will be ready to taxpayers with the billlevy for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. Al spoke, Jodi stood to thank levy, and the technology has a general fund, and a second was Konen said if the levy doesn’t away from technology, but we’re removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- through the work of more than a dozen local the added customapproximately the package a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked ifset there anyfixed term of 10 years. a COPS grant. Over pass, “there will be repercussions, not about putting students gle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, Hetalking said the organization’s history. According towith him forgrab all his help tofrom remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual cowboy balland – which actually Another of these requiretreatment in the boarding to beStevensville had to be provided a ride is not a question and answer” from Covid-19. Mell ing a climbing plan, this er’s Mist, a new business has recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page 21 athing new Facebook page. Hower’s age and $60,000 in or front door when it arrives. the city was doing, or even could According to information prothree years, the grant money gets in front of screens 100% of the Stevensville, which is sepasevere consequences.” Mitchell has been with the Chamoverarching goal for the Chamber has him, what was meant to be a six-month he was only supposed to speak for 10 ments is that each applicant started 11 years ago but couldn’t be held last year to the bank as well as to the colon journey. like,” recalls week’scancer meeting will location. covsession. “It’s public ” their did the work at charge opened at the same Howevartists havecomment. notposition shown inuse the particular cash, all of to to the “They always direct the ever, members of the public vided byover the district, these levies used up, “but we want that time,work but we itno responsibly rated into two districts, elemenA chart prepared by the district ber for 36 years, and spent much always been to keep businesses connectappointment position lasted 12 minutes. submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to the pandemic – has been upgraded this The day after that Overstreet. “This er the following agenda er, dissuading any worries about the thehad Bitterroot Valley soit’s there details of the which was to victim tothat send it,membership ‘no signature The mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted are geared to maintaining current to continue,” said Thennis. “We before, when appropriate. tary and high moment school, is running what cuts are being proposed who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every stated the cussing the role hunting “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi lists year. topics: surgery, was is when realized changeover, it will remain a place of should be a lot of interest in the new transaction. being fraudurequired,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associoperational standards and preventthink wehe need that be second person.” “WeMark have to have phone lines, a technology levy of $250,000 over the next three years if the levy ly that would answering publicly thank Joan for helpThe Town of recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, of it. “It’s been a good ride forStevensville 29“This numbers have beenever “trending every she says, pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first year we’ve done fully diagnosed with that I need was not art. After two months ofpersonrenovations material. There are 16 artists in total lently deThe Bank Secrecy Act ing drastic cuts in essential Thennis said that the social we have to have internet, we in each district (the high school doesn’t pass. In the first year, it ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. said” Al. “I’mabound looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest See RCFW, page 3questions from the public. ing me and helpingyears,” the town, flags when seniors are center, for filling while attorney Greg Overstreet objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. The University COVID-19. taking Covid while behind brown-paper covowners aretoalways nel andhidden services. are the funded be able to communicate with ourother district includes the in Lone Rocktown lists curriculum platforms, ly, itwork/behaviorists was notso far, and manded from of 1970 requires banks tobusibeing on the side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes of the public ofPictured Montana Catering Service will provide theof and had Covid-19. with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened welcoming “We all kinds According to Thennis, through funds andmore. changes at like families. We can’t go without that.” area), which includes the original ness office software, IT support for“I patience as Dave she worked was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s firsttitle senior citizen keep track of withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is $75,000 80 years old, and all of a was conversations should be prepared for some Hamilton Superintendent, “As we the federal level could affect that. Thennis said that the cost to technology levy that fewer laptop replacements. In the its doors March 1. of mediums,” said Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” said through the issues. Mayorthey’re Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update are examining ourhit current budget, If the safety levy passes, “this the owner of aSTEVI, home withpage a taxable already approved in each district second year, it’s staff cuts, IT supThe new “It business will feature business partner, Suzette Smith. encountered the commuSee 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg Overstreet talks about his recentfrom brush with death due to Overstreet. Jim Crews, former mayor to $15,000, it 10 Stacie Barker. Photo by Victoria Howell. at 901 S.the 1st Street invalue Hamilton. See COWBOY BALL page 4 See SURVIVING, page 5withdraw there are ups andleatherwork downs and some would be Hamilton taking care of in the $500,000 range would but comes up for renewal every port and professional development, by Michael Howell onsite custom by Karen Some of artists displayed such cirnity. Staub is Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 uncertainty on federal funding. In Hamilton,” said Thennis. run about $10 per month ($120 per years. all online curriculum platforms Photo by Nathan Boddy. Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her were previous participants in the examining what thatin looks for The price of technology really year) total for Thennis Jon Konen, further hardware cuts. In apLast weekStethe Ravalli County Commissioners work is grounded thelike Sheridan-style former gallery, is but the business plan by John Dowd barns, cowboys, famous artists with a both levies.On March 9th,According memberstoof the Thisand school year, the Stevensville us, the tech levy and safety levy are hitting school districts hard, said vensville Superintendent, this levy year three, it’s more staff cuts, no believes many Hamilton homes ofRealty a memorandum of understandofby tooling which features variations on Montana has changed since Lottermoser and flavor and more. Thisnot year Stevensville completed their adoption FFA fielded teams incontinue twelve contests by John Dowd of the franchise, many should no- that. and the south FFA portions of theproved valley, Exit team will workJohn Dowd partment of Criminal Investigations not for new things, but to stabilize Thennis. He said these costs, which would support safety and security district coverage for professional would be under ing with the Ravalli County DUI Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith space. A Hamilton business,In that hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice thetook change atthe all, andinvestigation. itWhile may lead out there,” separated at Victor Crossing. After the ing and marketing as one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the what we currently have, to mainare really infrastructure costs, have for the campus, digital educational “It’s tough said the commissioners statedwant Protection Agency. The letter National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; See LEVIES, page 6 MAPS Media Institute to produce a secured video designed to her leatherwork, isaround also RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working toinan enand theto contest is still looking agricultural leadership competito the level and invitaby Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the southand portion was purchased tostate change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 1st, 4:30 1889, According Hamilton Police Depart- sale, to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating thatthe “Ravalli objects contains recommendations manage timber tobytions provide Plan. courage a love ofPolice artthrough in young people forment participants. Participants must in Butts, their yearlong effortCounty to tions compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone some big LastChief year, of the previous Exit Realty Kathy and north by qualify out of to the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton officers were Police, Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces from furniture to the valley. To do this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th for the next level of competition at the events. forest products and jobs; and to unmitigated to concerning the Draft SEIS for A new record of decision changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. When asked how this change will in a shooting with if a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on by Victoria Howell it would be possible The DUI Task Force approved the creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a county-wide contest, showgrades. 95th State FFA Convention in Billings 2023-24 district championships by Victoria Howell year, the facility took in just under The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rocknot be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though the franchise has split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect at for the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. thewhen Gold Butterfly. Concernwas issued on 17, old growthwith status all county toart, put envelopes onDecember January 18, filing objecby Victoria his property which wouldretain in effect theinhighway, whichowned/maintained is aastate addressed the private land was Mischief$240,000 Room May and commissioners all her work isHowell done her twotook casing the participant’s loveown of Corvallis and Florence schools inthe April. for Stevensville include: and spent every penny. venville’s main drag, beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. Fortunately, rights that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Exit Realty is still the Lendman said that it will not change venience Store. Theby engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also ing the scope of the analysis treatment units. According to roads from heavy equipment 2021 accompanied by a Draft all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshutbeen off access to Stevensville River highway, because now you’re goingoff to on it. sold toproject a new owner and Fish, Wildlife signed The involved the creation of tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have the most active, though all Over 200 students in StevensAgronomy led by Sidney McJasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of kopf, director put valentine cards The activities Stevensville Town CounPark, ain 20-acre parkare onwelcome the east bank have two accesses for trucksatrucks, pulling and Parks got involved. once-priand logging mostly, the letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release set of easily accessible items that hadThe secret hiding ATR Smart Procedures is a softschools in the valley to ville’s agricultural education program Casland, 1st place individual with tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up. Just get up there and play.” current owner of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot executive director ofnorth 1 Horse volunteer organization. But Shinn said 12 reportedly charged at the responding officer involved shooting See EXIT, page atMichael Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf really cil was split on whether to accept just to the north of piece oftheing boats, and you’ve just come out oflands the vate piece now belongs to theKyra state where someone could stash some Due to abands, change in root Forest Plan’s Forest-wide about 90% of proposed but not limited theitback impacts cific forest plan amendment hoping to get an update on Zinke’s me about that.” They were justto, then. But by Howell ware design company, now based in participate. Some of the the private schools even learn about a wide range ofcompartments agriculteam members Quinn Rahl, Des(Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these this will officer. “We have seen tremendous supcosts about $200 per month to feed At A Time Draft Horse Rescue Homes inHowever, Hamilton, is moving liked the idea. He regard. asked a small piece of park after land near the property. Crews contacted theCommissioner county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per hour - there is aflask developed fishing access site. drugs orthe hide aand small of whiskey. The aim was efforts in that Greg Chilcott said, the needle has moved significantHamilton. to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. Management Wildlife Reto Willow Creek Road. Due to defining old-growth stantreatment areas are within an Victor. On Saturday, April 13, the thesebe“gentle their Ifirst time, and for others that printer, there will Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate all Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotitem a nice giants.” there are asking the community students at schools Stevensville bridge, an that was Instead, and negotiated the donation of the are going to be accidents there.” “But think it’sThen [the piece the to provide parents a learning opportunity toon see the On Sheep Creek Zinke’s Field Represen“We have a mining law from 1872 ly, dedicated and there isand virtually no benefit Montana, the organization owners lum. school day under the Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is resource and financial limitasource Objective to “Maintain area designated for insect and dards. Some objections to the life-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and boost lastForest week when she was to send his residents a and daycares to make National project that considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson said he didn’t west] still a viable piece of land for continue to be a delay various ways in which any young person can hide tative Matt Zacharias said, “Given now other than jobs, and and team have fallen in loveby with the Accordingproud to theofcontest orga-a time engaging ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team the Last year the envelopes. the music. This spring festival always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuespecially this during Mine project old-growth habitat disease treatment because ofinstruction tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this Valenspecial envelopes and presented with a check for $7500 other associated costs to rehabilitate meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use the land is to the town. “I city to have, whether or not you put this situation and Congressman the proposal we are seeing their substance use from casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One of the ways nizers, last yearhistory there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor 18 Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and in paper deliveries. “Talking about fast-tracklopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American that he believes is tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the county. The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only see a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Motnot be able to accommodate on suitable timberland to by the January 18 deadline dense pockets of dead and dyZinke’s background at the Interior doesn’t look like there’s too these horses. When they’re fi nally ready from representatives of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, At the request of the Ravalli Couof commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. had to be emptied more really popular, and from alllike over to the area, andmany beyond. name of “Release thelocations Squirrels.” Even from his wounds was pronounced seeing lowest support for law ensomething, I’d About four years resident. people may Department, heto isthe aware offull it, but jobs. areConduct seeing piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the All ley. “There are so many cars out there, nty Commissioners, aand field represensaid what shewe tells parents is,Some “If you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch for adoption, most can be driven or the necessary support viable populations inging trees. They claim the area will having do with the been through their artacontest. The even more, with participation their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a resident came could drop off valenyou guys are on the front line here. is risk and no benefit. So we tative from Rep. Ryan Zinke’s Bitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. But see some infrastructure fast then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’t ridden, and some just become “pasture located inU.S. Hamilton. Part of contest the logging not receive the idea came from a similar art all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the of old growth, new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto The Ravalli County Office isenveathey great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after The fact that have been as arethat looking to you.” to Farrenkopf to see tines to fill the office paid the commissioners a visit of the bridge, was offered the Town this piece of land. “It’s two was donated onand theleadership condition looking long term, if youDUI, haveKuntz, prop-10 See VALENTINES, page 10 That pets.” selection forHouston, awarding that gift See page tracking aimed atbeetle, getting they held in Texas right afThese also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career developett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret first to be created in the last “Itheads really opened the in 2020. first was to the drawing board. by John Down rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial impacts toIn wildlife and tobank beetle, Douglas-fir bark hour. Ezzell on bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with the departTucked away onCounty Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their exclusive as they have been, we Zacharias responded, paper until Thursday. on Wednesday, April 1.Fort The commisforest in the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli for use as a roads converge, the is incrediit would be maintained and utilized erty on the west of the river, then 1 Horse At A Time was established was online voting and according ter the events of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I ment events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, and 50 years. To do this, they will door to some interesting permanent and asked for $9.5 One of the problems, acthose fuels off the forest. In One band that continues to return According to Conroy, the festival’s issued a press release that detailed ment, Snavely noted there have only thought it would be more likely saying, “From our perspecthe Draft SEIS limits the scope dwarf mistletoe and western the project is complete. Ravalli Willow Creek Road. together to decide what was needed just to the north of Fort Owen State sioners recently sent the entire Monpotential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains eastwanted of Corvallis. We for the asATR to find atry way astonished, last toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell at state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea cording toapologize Butler, was, “we “Hopefully, the third need to ask the community conversations million, which Butler said ispeople,” the Band, visiting purpose isits “toenvironmental promote and encourthat youwas guys would before tive, what we can do forin event andtenure investigation. However, been three these types shootings. tana Congressional Delegation andto Park is the Summit Career Center, a Bitterroot or not needed in theyear, community. They with Montana, we would like tothe see County objects to in shifting of conseNational Forest spruce budworm damage. During the of former issues… It hear isof the fastest part of the years. idate highway property into the Town The original proposal was The next glass recycling event in button, cell phone batteries (out of feature the beauty of the state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen said Butter, speaking about was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what the is theGreg charm,” to pass acame levy, which BVCC Germany where she grew up around Simmerman, 1commented Horse At Aavailable Time we would.” continuity’s sakeof is Stevensville. to old-time share from Nashville. They will be joined by age bluegrass music.” The inconvenience. Gov. Gianforte athe letter asking very little information is at However, these are always a danger of nonprofit organization that offers a up with the concept of career mayor Jim Crews, owner of land channel and the deepest part of the Vickie Motley, park board memI think It’s something some mill infrastructure. In quences analysis to vegetation, Although in general financial burden of the project officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info so to give back to the community, and “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett withdrawn in August of 2020 Bitterroot Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Community Commission Chairman Dan with Congressman Zinke horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they for their support in removing the this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, center, which is were modeled after a that highly free career training program side targetat the river ononce the northeast had channel. Ifto you toart develop ber, said that nothing had been done RDO Equipment Co. the pileated woodpecker and agreement with the proposed to Ravalli County and believe project is designed improve from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the north if you don’t have batteries to recycle the long run, that saves firethought their successful art said Hafer, saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colton unsure ofThe exactly how theshe College was.” However, there College (BVCC) trustee and without success. campaign, which because helped the Huls said, “Since our original and what the proposed Sheep Creek Mine project soula, Idaho and more. event is abut all share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot is especially passionate about getters. The officer is currently on leave neither the norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted to shut off river access on for fishing, I officer, wouldmealso see aother problem the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 end of the Ravalli Fairnow you canRunning save up to bring them contest was the way toShe go. According come in“Crosspurpose.” all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road eting that wewill held at theplace FairgrouCongressman can Theresilience vote take to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to have been a major secretary, Sue Smith. was it isCounty contrary to law pine marten. forest to natural project, the Ravalli County from the and federal government’s Fastsingle-microphone type event, with When asked why he loves bluegrass, fighting costs.” during this investigation, as is stanmunity members, were harmed during horses. She and her husband, a That check followed inRavalli the wake ages 18 older in Wild both and called Itorganization offers similar and Alliance for the grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will beinsects the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer nds, we7, have heard crickets from share with Aaron 41 Transparency list, aorganizafast-track speaking about the May via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. services, according to Stevens. Missoula Counties. In addition toon military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift in November See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming the them. Nothing. Zero.” Flint (head of 8th. gallon. Jars and bottles that coning director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying events process for expedited review. In their public desired an independent nature of the community tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. free training, Summit offers six-month program offered species are listed in Forest officials also isreceived and Zacharias disease;The reduce sediover impacts to drinks or - Greg Chilcott, relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20fromcareer Tractor Supply. 406-549-4171 agency failed to use the best said, “And from what inconcern Interior) make tained food be recycled Cardboard recycling also be letter, the County Commissioners lead coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville The name of the FFA: judgewill into the story Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college. According Butler, ask the public for help with a the mentoring, support and friendship to is broken down into three phases. farm which Shinn said canitruling support That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip the Forest Plan, but county owned and maintained ment sources Willow I can gather, itin doesn’t sound like sure there isacre requested that full Environmental County Commissioner for a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels can available for apeople fee. available science in managing reception hasabeen incredible. This year, they will be giving away compete in FFA includAgthe Sales 2nd place team led by on Gold Butterfly Project Presenting a the check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horse At by rare opportunity to create a doors. and wanted to hold true.” She the trustees said that this voted inofpreviously aStrobel high many believe itistonot be Stevens stated that the first phase isJasmin whoever walks through their RDOequipment.com about 20 horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, they are really moving the ball or some continuity Impact Statement be conducted for clear whether there are other roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stay on,AA but please remove lids. Sponsored by the non-profits was incorrect in last week’s paper. The When speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individual levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreach community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l to r: Levi Clark, CPA, Andrea Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comThis program the brainchild of the needle, called “personal development,” which as itprizes were, at all . They were toto produce and to that conversation. care ofisdraft is “All ataking thorough environmental review correct name isRecycling U.S. Judge Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County (RCR) and in the Bitterroot, Lander said, ofoftrout cludes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to with team members Kamryn Jones, Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. terroot. According tohorses trustee worked to alter the levy toright first time theytrying went the the district was able toAdminlevy program runMagistrate by the UniversiManager, and Will Ramsey, CPA. Also pictured is Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and the ply with the definition of old power duo Myla Yahraus, the owner involves aptitude testing to idennow. Maybe there was some internal develop and trying to extract proObviously, that depends of the project’s potentially adverse an expensive proposition. Last Kathleen DeSoto. The Star apologizes will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page them have had some sort of Montana winners, which take the form of grant four of the twelve chapters are in the Teigen Hackett, and Charlie Leonard. See GOLD, page 5 vice chair, Jean Butler, this give it its best chance and to public, they did so after being for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality is 6 •FREE ESTIMATES IN THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Y OUR H OME I MPROVEMENT C O . COM istrator of the Environmental In a letter to the Forest habitat including meadows, horse thatthat. wasYou rescued Atvalue A Time. Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fortfound Owen Ranch andwere founder discussions of firsttify what each individual’s specific growth in the Bitterroot about visitedby 1 Horse ducing from our public lands. impacts. The commissioners for error. per pound. Thebeing following will be acForthe more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, See COUNTY , page 3 significantly voted down would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of the center, and co-founder and ExecPaid for by Brad Davis, P.O. Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page 21 ART, page 44 SeeSee SUMMIT, page
Hamilton female firefighter’s first year ends with human rights complaint
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
School levies on ballot in three communities
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting
New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task
Force, MAPS to partner on Art contest seeks Stevi FFA chapter Hamilton officers special video more participation
sweeps district North valley Exit Realty has a new face fire on suspect Bluegrass Festival Gold Butterfly project draws some objections Spreading love horse Local draft rescue thriving Stevi to return park land to county set for Saturday County confers with Zinke’s Field Rep. Notice
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
Davis for Senate Dist. #44
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN THE
Correction
SOUTHGATE To MALL Protect our Heritage 493-0051