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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume XLI, Number Number 7 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, August 27, 2025 Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Wednesday, January 13, 2024 Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2, April26, 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Stevi survey results are in Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercenter open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Michael Howell by Kristin Kruse
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the proper Thechanges park additional impact on people’s therapy services – provided by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision review the environmental by John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.oftaxes. It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property The Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. public safety, and across state impacts byincluding handing its the therapy theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. The event over 220 people The TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, the decision Indrew addition to theaoff loan, bythe John Dowd Bitterroot Health Commissioners gave condiAccording toonthewere prelimito the rural character of the is a founder was alsoofdiscussed. In that mandated duties to“It other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people lined up out the door. Ramsey the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. was Mile Community Center is up who serves to take out a project was paid for by been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to theOswald subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as wellMissouri as Town really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan to finish Three Mile Community Senior Valley since 1947. A place for and lab The of Stevensville has released ceremony, said concerning the the ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments concern and a project. group ous specific, documentable, Ranch in Florence, a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, expressed a resident of the Waterkeepers West Fork. He has was attended by people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the the Center (the official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting results of the Stevensville Community Survey Bishop said “It organization’s 50 years of service, An open house celebration was for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and inliving school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, soand officials are excited about the feedback they theyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the such as complex will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and away as of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, compete and hone their received. According to town officials, they were 1972 andinto it’s still runThis by amay Humane Association’s (BRHA) the facility open of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicalready experiencing a Hills in subdivision challenged the decreasing water abun(RCFWA), on Creek by the Bitterroot chapter are of Trout Unmetal contamination rivers. HeFarmers has ladies Helena even Idaho. ing contains athe large meeting they started State inand rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also functions as Mine a new built just of Sheep Last weekend the Bitter advised West Engineering, theof firm animal located on Fairgrounds bunch 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 toby have because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank to Great keep and donations from commuby spring 2023, 501c3 non-profit the Stevensville at thesupporting Humane Association participataiding the town in its Growth Policy Update Mile and Upper road system. Additionally, having 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 ontothe Bitterroot 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 Seewould Mine, 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in BitteraofnationWoodchuck Road east the be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. project, that a good expectation bepage ahas 20% Board, said, “This organization double purpose. included 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. The Creek Road and Florence. TheAccording land is honor being a 100-foot by 100were also expressed about the (DNRC) overresponse thereasonable. process andHowever, while thethe County of the Bitterroot Mountains tothededicate rated Mile Fire District, Lone rate. officials were cutting ceremony in of new in 2014. come such a“Thus, long way since itpleased was root Blasters. to club expand Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. including developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thataFamthe the west. She said the for the use and payRock Park and theservices. Rapp thatThose the response was better than members, hundreds of kids have startedrate about 50 years ago. Ithat. feel facility, tours of the event the “Slumber Pawty,” whichbenefit “We’rethe bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was of is the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or sense duty to provide statutorily The building isarray now home total cost ments come ily of Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program According to Jenelle Berthoud, Stevensville building, and of food and huge responsibility to honor opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerFire District and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife on nearby required information lies with care to the patients, to the senior center and the approximateout of park Schmiedeke said there over the years. Along their terroot CEO, Town Clerk,those the survey sawcome over before 150 responwho have us and ” drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s members who participated to stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who own programs, the club supports he said.be aswent ses. Stevensville BobasMichalson make Mayor it as good it can we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, amongFire Consultants Inc. (PCI). District. Creek. 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 over Hedge- of by John Dowd The private non-profi t organization thetocourse for surveys the nextLois 50hundreds years.” door-to-door giveplication out to Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 Schmiedeke proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon that the County can TheThe surrounding conassessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners andIn peth, chair of the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, homes and Berthoud went to numerous businesnoon Saturday and 12 noon The Sun- received gle-family residential use dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision without tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Montana Hope Project. It is often said that Mile Community Senior Center board l to r,He Colconducted successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the ses is allproud around the Stevensville area.a They bothladay, participants stayed overnight hospital board, with individual systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County thatmembers, DNRC. criticized the organization counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the Three that general contractor donated club is utilized byseptic local schools, little locally owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the See SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the shelter animals, wore fundraising campaign to fund the granddaughter of Marcus Daly, gave believe this effort helped get a higher response said this projectnew courts,Wildlife a walking path,Boy a playthey didn’t Teller Scouts group had bookstores areRefuge, aon waning See the CENTER, page 3 pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then Covid-19 the BRHA land Fairgrounds Road rate. ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run has been four years and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of thelease. shelter. with a 99-year Six years later, pandemic hit and construction According to Berthoud, “There socosts many others. in thewere works, but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded important pieces that we all talk about,” which current executive diOneThe Book Store, in HamJohn Bishop, pictured from left, leads a gathering people involved in the there were some celebrating the opening of the new animalfifth shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michaelof Howell. even out of the country held the to take out a mortgage to finish the land totake the organization where she believeshad were represented in the responses. rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility thedelays on Trap the property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The According to Berthoud, planning and to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page 2 hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. She said theat organization’s of directors will be built on land located the corner ofboard Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 staff, new building replaces an old building shelter since 1984. zoning board, and the town are grateful to cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the all who participated in the survey. The results ipants each work to raise funds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important from the survey are available online on the donate to theirCity respective Council shelters. met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling “quality, victim way to combat such the Hamilton Hamilton Downtown facility will beelse more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, asTown well as of Stevensville website. Something been providing Individual community businesses day, March 5They to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. Photo abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just a The sign on Hwy 93 entering Stevensville from the north. Stevensville is home to over 2,200 people. by John Dowd. also donated to the fundraiser, Hamilton. accessible, See SURVEY, on page 6 upcoming city projects. at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to ship901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask questions also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said that Marcus Daly for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of care” ping depot for FedEx, The new 12-acre campus will and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. isversation a critical access provide primary, care, urgent care and Hospital, which about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.” Farrenkopf In recent years, they Appreciation by Mayor Domithe Boxxe Shoppe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the Farrenkopf istaking legally justified you know co-owners, and been steps a lengthy fundand fund by Victoria Howell me like a ton of of the slumber party, and a barbelier,to made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After Chiefthe time. Snavely. However, at the end of the Stephen open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating one of them, Every the Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his thepresentation meeting,toduring the non-agenda items In the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in the Burnt area to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion thelately counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways ciation 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 retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successvation inofthe Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Many the participants that The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe a other the hospital with During the public period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of she knows that they ful. Joined by showing revenues over various projects and programs. by John Dowd spent the night were kids. During tional Forest (BNF) willRoberttoSteinThe Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: of the such council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. “become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One is their the party, participants hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. is hoff stood to address the council. He said council member Jenny West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that happen able to uncover the to say they This are shipand Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which Hamilton is the seat of the valley, and took part in a “tortilla slap game,” thisOverstreet, 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 two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. expenses have only or awards three winners whoincan home to the airport the11 valley. A 30th from 6 largest toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing 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 person expect a lot of the pilots that to sharemight information Wildlife Association and Troutence Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several other with Ms. Staub was one in cash, common tactics for and former council member, public at the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections due in large to do it all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields related to conservation, by Victoria Howell fly throughthe there to remember the mountain regarding developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of to this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural appears to be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, views or quaint small-town feel. However, ment of athe draft forest lip Ramsey toThe speak on the dangers In discussion agenda send-from a normal of In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe filled. said Luther. spread sciences. event. Freeman is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addifor many, it might be the little cafe on the Climbing Management the second regular of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, theShoppe first to be brought er came to the Boxxe ing to aforward scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say airstrip. Plan (CMP). The virtual“I thought counciltoand mayor howoflocal tional council members. meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to was the issue re-roofing the city intending send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. Now by John Dowd of 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 forNa12 years. A real estate for TheBOOKS, Hangar Cafe is tucked away just acrossshould run. He February of 2021. that 51 is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will beto held on See page 18 “We’ll dobeour job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but streetitshop. Accordingthat to Hamilton viaI government FedEx. After Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the was announced he would check was Savannah Deuter, from the main landing strip, with a great view agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and also He wentSee through damage material.” Zoom. below for only takeThe than Boddy. learned that it would just City Public Works Director, Donny customer was a frequent commenter Gibson got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, theSometimes experiencethey has been On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who high school inowner January 27, town clerk Jenelle of every landing. Ashley Hale, for 15 the Army valley. for 21 years, his and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Seeorganizational COUNTY, page 10 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 with 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 years, it isthe definitely an interesting place Berthoud told council and to late joinsaid theSteinhoff meeting. Fivethat fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to in August he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other maintesuggested to him that he victims, get involved people all over the valley,” and all of it hosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law and the executive completed a she semester of college the last administration. In currentfrom Hamilton, was recbutuse wishes to work. similar meetings audience that was having good as chair oflanded the Cowboy Ball committee. told that the cancer got I potential felt familiar with of so herbadHe in jail,rewarding.” or that a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRa- course to network. then got onto the board has been “extremely for members, giving their report, director. Al gave a history of the and submitted her transcript that others within the commuRight out the window, customers can watch public comment, Crews told ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held in Freeman said the committee hopes to raise trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a fee 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 Al was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding proof nity would help her look out planes landing on of thecompLeting runway,and and when the that those mak2021. the council to handle the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rodeo Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsomeduring significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the advithey have planned for the upcoming bers that time that led up to him associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one helicopters hover windows willchines. Inhas addition to nearby, the beenthe by John Dowd became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly in the state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he said. surgery on October was being water Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition into year. During the meeting, it was also taking on the position. the former YouTube chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she vibrate. “It’s pretty cool,” said picious Hale. For her, it opportunity to learn In addition to the the heating custom leathwhen has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, and each time left will cut down on bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged address the mayor, not the Greg Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided whatand “The story of the Bitterroot Valley 55boarded, board members participated the role. Al will be retiring in August this announced that long-time member, Al cants meet tolonger be eligible was a resident at a local nel they had no is also amust lot ofwas fun to see the on the about and participate Following the closure ofthe a“excitement longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Photo courtesy considering recovered address, but(left. will be ready taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. AlAllen spoke, Jodi stood to to thank Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and kid’s faces,” watching the aircraft move about the process of developworking but they had set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately the anycustomgrab thehelp package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there gle and triumphs,” said Al. He said the organization’s history. According to him for all his and to remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual cowboy ball – which actually Another of these requiretreatment the boarding to had be to be provided with a ride the airport while theythis eat. In fact, the isage notmost a question and answer” ering, from 21 Covid-19. Mell ing a climbing plan, er’s Mist, ain new business has recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page athing new Facebook page. Hower’scould and in was meant to be a six-month front door when it arrives. the was doing, or even overarching goal for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what he was only supposed to held speak for year 10 Mitchell has been with the ments iscity that each applicant started 11the years agoor but couldn’t be last to the bank as well as to colon cancer journey. like,” recalls coveted seats in the location. place areChamthe few window week’s meeting will covsession. “It’s public comment. ” did the work at no charge to opened at the same Howevartists have not shown their work in the particular cash, all of “They always direct ever, members of the public always been to keep businesses connect- appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. – has been upgradedthe ber for over 36 years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to this The day after that Overstreet. seats, which many call to try to reserve. er the following agenda er, dissuading any worries about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there details thethehad which was to victim to send it, ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who hadspace tried to access the from years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing thewas “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: The was remodeled an oldUpchurch, airsurgery, he isfrauduwhen realized changeover, itrole willhunting remain plays a place of should be a lot of interest in the new transaction. being required,’” she adds. Fred Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associlyopened that he it would answering publicly thank Joanoffor help-beenshe Thesays, Town offorStevensville recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, it. “It’s ride 29“This numbers have been “trending every pointing out that red Facebook page said was not • Review overall plane hangar by heritfather, and he as beThere is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with I was nota good art. After two months of renovations material. are 16 artists in total lentlythat UnfortunatedeThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town, ” flags abound when seniors are in while town Greg objectives and desired awhile cafe hidden in 2005. He was an aspiring pilot,not and accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling behind brown-paper so far, and the owners are always ly, it covwas manded from ofattorney 1970 requires banks to being on the other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said outcomes ofIronically, the public loved to fly. Ashleyopened Hale has never ofPictured Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio welcoming more. “We like allOverstreet. kinds seniorseriously for patience as she worked “I was obviously enough. Staub’s first citizen keep track of withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations been a fan ofissues. flying. On the other hand, Vonnie should beofprepared forsaid some its doors March 1.said mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update McDonald, has been theOverstreet head server and The newwho business feature Suzette Smith. encountered See page 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg talksbusiness about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, tothe commuOverstreet. “It hit will Jim Crews, former to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 employee withleatherwork the cafemayor for over seven years, Some SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom by Karen such cirStaub is Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 loves getting in the air. “I like flying and I like by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants going fast,” she said. County Commissioners apwork is grounded in the Sheridan-style barns, formercowboys, gallery, but the business plana by John Dowd famous artists with On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensville As well as thefeatures pilots, the cafe regularly seeschanged proved adoption of a memorandum of understandof tooling which variations on has since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contests by Dowd ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue workbyJohn John Dowd of Criminal Investigations several retired military folks and firefighters. ing withthe the Ravalli County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. Inthat addition Smith A Hamilton business, hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice thetook change atthe all,space. andinvestigation. itWhile may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After ing and marketing one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the Protection Agency. The letter the commissioners stated National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a video designed to her leatherwork, Karen is also an RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working to en1889, and the contest is still looking agricultural and leadership competito the state level and secured invitaby Since Michael Howell The Hangar Cafe is located right at the entrance to the Hamilton Airport, and looks out over the main runway. Photo by John Dowd. January 2, Exit Realty in the to some positive growth in the future. sale, the south portion was purchased want to change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 1st, around 4:30 According to Hamilton Police DepartSee HANGAR, page 4 to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations Plan. manage timber to provide courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of thePolice, previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to A new the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. SEIS for record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, show95th State FFA the Convention inhas Billings district championships by Howell year, the2023-24 facility took inthe 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 franchise split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all toart, put envelopes on January 18,participant’s for filingby objecbyher Victoria hisCorvallis property which wouldschools in effect with the highway, which is aastate addressed when the private land was Mischief$240,000 Room May and commissioners all work isHowell done her twotook casing the loveown of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: and spent every penny. venville’s beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. rights thatmain pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The Fortunately, engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also roads heavy theowner scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by most a drag, Draft treatment units. According to Exit all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re goingequipment sold toproject aing new Fish, Wildlife signed off on it. The involved creation of tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the 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 put valentine cards in kopf, activities director The Stevensville Town CounPark, a 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucks pulling and Parks got involved. The once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging trucks, mostly, a set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding ATRowner Smart Procedures is a softschools ininvolved the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofnorth 1 Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer shooting See EXIT, page atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether to accept just toreally the north of the private piece oftheing boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toShinn theKyra state compartments where someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s Forest-wide but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment about 90% of proposed ware design company, now based in participate. Some of the schools even learn about a wide range of agriculteam members Quinn Rahl, Des(Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these bands, this will officer. “We have seen tremendous supAtsmall A Time Draft Horse Rescue it costs about $200 per month to feed by Michael Howell prior to the Broadwater County case, “Essentially this will behour adrugs combined tion cannot be deemed sufficient until Homes in Hamilton, is liked the idea. He asked a piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per there and is a developed fishing access site. or hide a small flask of whiskey. The aim was Hamilton. However, after moving to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during the Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. to Willow Creek Road. Due to Management Wildlife Redefiningthe old-growth stantreatment withinOn anSaturday, Victor. April 13, the be“gentle their time, and for others that Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotitem a nice these giants.” there are Department of Natural Resources appropriation forthere.” an they have this paper work,” she said, asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an that was at schools and negotiated the donation of the are going to under beanalysis accidents “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the toexempt provide a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, themeasures organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is source Objective to “Maintain dards. Some objections to the area designated for insect and resource and financial limitalife-saving to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and boost last week when she was to send his residents a and daycares to make National Forest project that Karen Alley, Associate General and Conservation would issue what well,” said Alley. She said the subdi“So if the DNRC lags, that will be on 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 various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen in loveby with the Accordingproud tolopes. theofcontest orga-a time engaging ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team the Last year the the music. This spring festival“Iother always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuespecially this during old-growth habitat disease treatment because ofinstruction tions, Ravalli County new decision were received little love this special envelopes and associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck for $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is totothe town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put Counsel for the Montana Association were called pre-determination letters vision applicant will have apply to would the DNRC.” their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One of the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett and Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and were so full will they The project now is lopes andsee fundraiser feature 18accommodate bands these one newer band bytimberland the it,” interesting lance to thecounty. hospital. He expired there in American history thatdense he is believes tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing said Motnot be able to on suitable to by the January 18 deadline pockets of dead and dyhorses. When they’re fi nally ready from representatives of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, of Counties (MACO), wasthat in the valley to the Department of Environmental DNRC by filling out a Notice of Intent The new law is effective January of commercial and non-comthey have been showing love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. to be more reallysupport popular, and from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even fromAbout his wounds andawas pronounced seeing the member lowest law en- had four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then Council Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he looked up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tells parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch most can be driven or there, the necessary support viable populations having toto douse with theparticipation ingfor trees. They claim the area recently to give the Ravalli County Quality infull their review of water (NOI) to Appropriate, “and then 1, 2026 and applies to Tari, applications been through their art contest. The even more, with their knowledge to the testfree, asmaintenance FFA Conduct of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands will play for and a Conroy, and his wife, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes and found that the land Imembers think can be used for parking. But then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’t ridden, and some just become “pasture located inBoard Hamilton. Part of contest the logging Planning members an update availability. DNRC turns around, I don’t know AFTER January 1, 2026. idea came from a similar art all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally sancZane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine during 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 The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 pets.” selection forHouston, awarding that gift See DUI, page 10 they held in Texas right af- to be These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career leadership developett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, on 2025 legislation affecting counties, “After the Broadwater Case, DNRC how, that’s whyand there is a That delayed According to four legislative by John Down first created in the last “Itheads really opened the in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” Alley, The letter notes that tial toIn wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away onCounty Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west side ofestablished the river,and then was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, 50 years.Creek To do this, theynoted will door tomistletoe some permanent and forsubcommittees $9.5According One ofConroy, the problems, acand guidance concerning public partiquit issuing letters andhave DEQ implementation date, and within analyzes considering the One band that continues to asked return toare the the festival’s issued a of press release that detailed ment, Snavely there only interesting the project is complete. the Draft limits scope Willow Road. dwarf and just to the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… Ithose think there are liability for western recreational purposes fivethe Ravalli you have access toSEIS potentially consoltains east Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last year, to have that To Johnny contend at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third need to was ask the community conversations with people,” million, which Butler said cording to Local Butler, was, “we asis the Campbell Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourcipation on land use and the subdivichanged their rules to no longer requicombined appropriations and gives a exempt well issue. government, event and investigation. However, been three of these types of shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a or not needed in the community. They of itsphone environmental consespruce budwormyears. damage. County objects to shifting Bitterroot National Forest During the tenure of former issues… It is the fastest part of the idate highway property into the Town The original proposal was The next glass recycling event in button, cell batteries (out of feature theorganization beauty of the andto participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” levy, which BVCC said speaking about was exorbitant andin occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1commented Horse Aavailable Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They belegally joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information isstate at amuch However, these are always aButter, danger sion process itself including findings re them and we’ve been left sort legally designated amount of water policy, environmental quality nonprofit that offers a pass came up with the concept ofin career mayor Jim Crews, the At owner ofand land channel and the deepest part of theof of Vickie Motley, parkwill board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something Although in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, 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, “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 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 this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program targetcenter, isthat modeled after highly of judicial review, decision this oddwhich space we’ve been ainthat since available water up to the 10been acredone liand the financial modelling commitat fact, the river ononce the northeast side had channel. Ifto you were toart develop ber, said that nothing had RDO Equipment Co. to Ravalli County and believe the pileated woodpecker and project is designed improve agreement with the proposed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the north if you don’t have batteries to recycle thought their successful art said Hafer, saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colton College (BVCC) trustee andaccess without success. campaign, whichmit.” helped the unsure exactly how thetees College was.” However, there soula, Idaho and more. event is abut all share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot she is especially passionate about getters. The officer is currently on leave neither the norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, making, determining adverse impacts, Feb. 14, 2024,” said also Alley. She said the NOI toofThe Appropriate are all looking at the exempt well16 attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I officer, would see aother problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, page end of the Ravalli County Fairnow you can 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 Running W. Road secretary, Sue Smith. was Theresilience vote will take place were organization to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to have been a major pine marten. project, the Ravalli County it is contrary to law forest to natural single-microphone type event, with When asked why he loves bluegrass, during this investigation, as is stanmunity members, harmed during That check followed in the wake horses. She and her husband, a to ages 18 and older in both Ravalli and called It offers similar and Alliance for the Wild analyzing facts, mitigation and best She said DNRC went back and will be required as part of a “complete from slightly different angles. 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 speaking about the May 7, 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 and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See page Rockies filed suit claiming the practices. rescinded some letters, especially over expressed and sufficient” subdivision applica“It’s been a BLUEGRASS, decades-long struggle,” gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th. ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying events tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. public desired an independent nature of the community free training, Summit offers The six-month offered Forest officials also received species arewhen listed in and disease; reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks fromcareer Tractor Supply. relocated toindicator Montana andisbought a 20406-549-4171 was lengthy discussion phased subdivisions, because of the tion. She said the DNRC anticipates said Alley. “My point that you agency failed to the best tained or food be recycled Cardboard recycling will be leadThere coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA: ask the public foruse help with a the Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college. According to also Butler, mentoring, support and friendship to sources is broken down into three acre farm which Shinn said can support That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip Strobel the Forest Plan, but it is not county owned and maintained ment in the Willow about House 681 which judge’s in that case. Soaway in order 10 turn around in issuing the see subdivision applications Jaforday a (second fee. Any color, and labels can available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception hasBill been incredible. This year, they will be compete together in FFA includAg Sales placebelieve team after led Presenting aruling check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn from left) 1 Horse At by a high rare opportunity to create a Alley and wanted to hold true.” She the trustees said athat this voted inof previously many it tobybe whoever walks through their doors. Stevens stated that thegiving first phase isJasmin RDOequipment.com about 20Sponsored horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear whether there are other roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stayAndrea on, but please remove lids. by the non-profits said was, to an extent, a response to to do a fix, after January 1, 2026, there NOIs. nuary 1, 2026, there will be this docuWhen speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the AA schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individual community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreach A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l to r: Levi Clark, CPA, Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comThis program the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care ofisdraft isover Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and in the Bitterroot, Lander said, “Allworked ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. addition to with team members Kamryn Jones, Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. the Broadwater County case the will beand what’s called aCPA. Notice of Intent She toldIn Planning Board members mentation called the for Appropterroot. According tohorses trustee to alter the levy to testing first time they iswent to the the district was levy program runNOI by the UniversiManager, Will Ramsey, pictured Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable toAdminply with the definition of old power duo Myla Yahraus, the owner involves aptitude toAlso idenan expensive proposition. Last 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. Seeafter GOLD, page vice chair, Jean Butler, it its best chance to will public, did after being for community funds. tyexpires of Montana. Theyears. reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• process involving exempt wells ingive the to Appropriate that be an that anby application will not even reach After riation. It five Itis 65 Yin OUR H OMEand Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator of the Environmental habitat including Inanalysis a they letter to so the Forest first horse thatmeadows, wasand rescued byESTIMATES 1 Horse At A Photo Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch founder tify what each individual’s specific growth found the Bitterroot per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of being significantly voted down approval ofand a subdivision. of legally available water. them until they have this. “An applicathe center, co-founderShe andsaid, ExecPaidthe fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 21 ART, page SeeSee SUMMIT, page4 4college cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See SUBDIVISIONS, page14 3 See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas oldpublic. a community district twice, wentP.O. back
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 Hangin’ at the Hangar Cafe Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
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 New laws affect county subdivisions
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
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