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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 1 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, July26, 16, 2025 Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 2022 Wednesday, January 13, 2024 Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2,9, April 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Stevi water rights finally rectified 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 changes ty for failing to do the proper The park additional impact on people’s by John Dowd 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 the impacts byincluding handing its the therapy theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. over 220 people The TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to theaoff loan, Bitterroot Health For Stevensville, along with many other 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 Montana towns, water rights longplat been aOswald tional last week to have the 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 to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the Senior ing last Wednesday huge issue stagnating responsible and reasonable the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments concern group ous specific, documentable, Ranch in Florence, a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, expressed a resident of the Waterkeepers West Fork. Heand has was attended by(the people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the thea project. Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting 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 development, according to Bob Michalson. tion in partnership with theMayor 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, sotheyas 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 However, during the latest legislative session, of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, compete and hone their ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by amay Humane Association’s (BRHA) new the facility open of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abun(RCFWA), on the Sheep Creek Mine by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Unmetal contamination in rivers. He has Helena and even into Idaho. This ing contains a large meeting they started Farmers State rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also functions as a Montana passed that essentially remedies built just ofa bill 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 that problem. Stevensville at thesupporting Humane Association participatMile Creek Road and Upper road system. Additionally, and some already having to the Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on the Road in Hamilton. The event served a Kathie Butts, President of the president of the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, and has been his bio on the Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this in 2012 their loan nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan HB432 wastime signed year, and goes into See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first in Bitterathis Woodchuck Road east ofnationthe applicant is proposing to be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has double purpose. It included a ribbon system, and a gorgeous view and incorpopayments contributors were the Three programs such as The effect October 1 of this year. Prior to the law, 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) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothededicate rated in 2014. Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. toseveral club towns had to through hoops order for the use and expand Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. developed by go Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thataFamthe the west. She said the Those payRock Park and theservices. Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel facility, including tours of the to rectify their water rights. Now, benefit after cost meeting event the “Slumber Pawty,” which “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 ments come ily of Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and of food and huge responsibility to honor several criteria, some towns no longer need to go 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, those who have come before us and ” drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s members who participated to stay through the DNRC and other agencies and groups 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 it as were many who own programs, the club supports said. make good as he itvolunteers can be as we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, amongFire for approval. 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 Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization the course for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between The proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can TheAccording surrounding conSchmiedeke assessed, TMCSC received reduced to an article by 12 Michael Howell in $165,000 for the Shriners and peth, chair ofwithout the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. In 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon “One Sun- problem, gle-family residential use received dozens over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The the Bitterroot Star in 2019, it tur- of written The Montana Hope Project. The It is often said that Three Mile Community Senior Center board members, l to r, Colorganization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight 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 islocally utilized by local schools, ned out, wasowned that the Town (Stevensville) failed to little leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the shelter animals, wore 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 file for its historic water rights in a timely fashion. bookstores are 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 ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run has been four years and Triple Creek Ranch, Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as BitOn top of However, that, state law among mandated that aBitterroot valid business. the in support of the shelter. with a 99-year lease. Six years later, pandemic hit and construction others. in the works, costs but folks that own Chapter ter Root of Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon water right could only be issued for the amount Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive diOne Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured fifth from left, leads a gathering of people involved in the celebrating waterout being used at the held time it was granted. This the opening of the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even of the country had to take out a mortgage to finish the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been the ilton, may exception left every town in Montana in24a difficult if on notTrap un-property delays due to the same event during the same Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility the that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The to this, as they were re-they See TRAP, 5 mostly grown See SHELTER, page tenable position since had all hour period. The event is apage fundpandemic. She said2 shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built onBedey, landMayor located the corner of Kootenai Creek Road andGreg Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being Representative David Bob at Michalson, Governor Greg Gianforte, Representative Overstreet and Representative raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust toNelson. Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoWATER, Nathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the Photo courtesy Bob Michalson. See page 4 Terry ipants each work to raise funds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to theirCity respective Hamilton Council shelters. 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 been providing “quality, 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. Hamilton. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just a also donated to the fundraiser, accessible, 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,Kristin 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 to one of them, Every the Ravalli by Kruse Bricks are placed in the VVA Honor Garden and whether it’s equine therapy or just sitting around 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“There In the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, can be ordered by visiting: https://www.thatsmythe fire,” said Miralda. is a high rate of suiing 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 Fork area to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion several ofAfter thelately counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief label. following what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conseroverall, doing very Each year Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton brick.com/vvahonorgarden orofdonations canwell also cide inwith the veteran community and we are seeing visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. by Victoria Howell are being recruited. There will also be he said, 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 itshttps://veteranstax collections and Many the participants that recognizes employees from all departments of be made through their website: law enforcement suicide rates on the same traThe Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe a other During the public period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that over they ful. Joined by showing revenues various projects and programs. spent the night were kids. During the Sheriff’s Office in an awards ceremony. This victoryalliance.org jectory. These are the same fabric of people, and 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 year’s ceremony took place on Saturday, June 28happen having Jenny aable place where they can find purpose, Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. is hoff stood to address the council. He said council member West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that to uncover the to say they This are shipand Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March on the grounds of Veterans Victory Alliance in a sense of duty and support is incredibly 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 who can 30th from 6 Holton toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page Sula, where and his staff had gathered forexperivaluable.” hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing11 his of 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 toweekend share Association information Wildlife and Trout Unlimthoughts were shared bythe several other aby long campout-style retreat. The nonprofit five retreats ence with Ms. Staub was one $16,000 inhas cash, commondue tactics for and former council member, public athosted the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections in large to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, Victoria Howell regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the “These are very hard selections to make, but to date, and relies 100% on donations. One 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, ment of a draft forest lip Ramsey toThe speak on the dangers In discussion on regular agenda In early March, a customwas unwittingly send-from claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe filled. the individuals selected have gone above and way to support their mission is by purchasaid Luther. spread sciences. event. Freeman is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with a normal of his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management the second regular of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, theShoppe firstsing to be brought er came torecognition,” 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 beyond in their jobs, and deserve the a memorial brick to immortalize the Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say 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. stated Holton. The Deputy of the Year award went names and legacies of those dear to you. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate for February of 2021. that 51 is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will betoheld on See BOOKS, page 18 should run. He that “We’ll dobeour job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but street shop. According 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 it was announced he would check was Savannah Deuter, to Corporal Thomas Hsu, who has been with the 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 inThe January 27,almost town clerk Jenelle agency for five years. medal of Merit 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 Berthoud told the council and to late jointoAugust the meeting. Fivethat fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to went Deputy Channing Briese, who fearlessly in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved has hurting.” Steinhoff 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 thein last administration. In currentfrom Hamilton, was recbutuse wishes similar meetings audience that was having good as chair oflanded the Cowboy Ball committee. ran into athe home that was engulfed flames inequipment. an told that 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 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 commupublic comment, Crews told ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held in Freeman said the committee hopes to raise attempt to save someone who was trapped inside. 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 of compLeting nity would help her look out 2021. the council that those makto handle the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rodeo and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the Detention Officer of the Year was awarded to Corgood. 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 Inhas addition to the been in the by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he said. poral Ben Ahlin, and Dispatcher of the Year went surgery on YouTube 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 chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn and eachpicious In addition to the the heating custom leathwhen has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, time left will cut down on bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged to Amy Hardridge. Others that were recognized 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 must meet tolonger be eligible was a resident at a local nel they had was no about and participate in Following the closure ofthe a 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 bill 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 for their exemplary performance include Shane 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 set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately the customgrab thehelp package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there anygle 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 requireFisher, Jaime Biesiot, Renee Henderson and Keith treatment the boarding to had be to be provided with a ride isage notand a question and answer” ering, from 21 Covid-19. Mell ing a climbing plan, this er’s Mist, ain new business haseven recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page athing new Facebook page. Hower’scould in was meant to be a six-month front door when it arrives. the was doing, or 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 Chamments 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 Seppel. week’s meeting will location. 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 of been to keep businesses connect- appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. – has been upgradedthe ber for over 36awards years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to this The day after that Overstreet. er the following agenda After the ceremony, the retirement 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 had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing thewas “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, isfrauduwhen realized Undersheriff Jesse Jessop announced. Jessop changeover, itrole willhunting remain a was place of should be a lot of interest in the new transaction. being required,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associly that he would be 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 it was not Unfortunate•been Review overall is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with I was nota good has with Ravalli County for over 24material. years,courtesy art. After two months of renovations ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo 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 desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling while hidden behind brown-paper covso far, and his lastand day as Undersheriff July 23.and “Itthe owners are always ly, itwill wasbe not 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 ofpleasure the public ofPictured Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened welcoming more. “We like allOverstreet. kinds seniorseriously for patience as she worked “I was aobviously enough. Staub’s first citizen keep track of withdrawals has been and an honor to serve Ravalli he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should prepared forsaid some its doors March 1.said When asked of mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. County,” said Jessop. whatbe his future Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The newhe“It business feature business Suzette Smith. Corporal Thomas Hsu receiving his Deputy of the Year Award from encountered See page 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg talks about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, tothe commuOverstreet. hit will plans responded, “IOverstreet have a long list of Jimare, Crews, former mayor to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. Photo byHolton. Victoria Howell. at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY page 4 SURVIVING, page by Michael Howell onsite custom leatherwork by Karen Some such cirStaub is County Sheriff Steve Photo by Kristin Kruse. BALLpage Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, 2 passions and hobbies that I am looking forward to makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants putting time into, and my wife Jessie has a long County Commissioners apwork is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plana by John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensville listtooling of chores forfeatures me.” variations on has changed since Lottermoser and proved adoption of a memorandum of understandof which Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contests by John ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue workbyAlong JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations with the announcement ing withthe the Ravalli County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. Inthat addition Smith A Hamilton business, hails of Jessop’s 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 retirement came the news of his replacement, 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 January 2, Exit1st, Realty in the some positive growth in the future. want to change a whole bunch right On Monday, April around 4:30 toAccording to Hamilton Police Depart- sale, the south portion was purchased Sergeant Brad Weston. Weston has 19 sworn years 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 the previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Police, Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 Tori Miralda, founder of Veterans Victory Alliance. ior. impacts law valley. enforcement and will assume role of school aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to Athe the To dofrom this, they have be high students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the next Photo level competition at the toevents. SEIS for new record of decision forest products and 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 by Kristin Kruse.on SteThe DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that Undersheriff on July 24. 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, by 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,is for filingby objecbyher Victoria Howell 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 is done her own two casing the participant’s love of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: “Jesse leaving big pair of shoes 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. TheaFortunately, engagement took 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 Mcto fill, he will be very hard to replace,” Jasmin 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 ATR 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.” said Weston. “I am to current owner of the north valley half chise was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofreally 1 Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer shooting See EXIT, page atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether to excited 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 suptake on this new role and the new chalAtsmall A Time Draft Horse Rescue it costs about $200 per month to feed 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 hour there and is a developed fishing access site. drugs 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 Wildlife Re-that defining old-growth stantreatment withinOn anSaturday, Victor. April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others The attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotgoal a nice these giants.” there are lenges itinofficers presents. My is to was keepat schools asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an item that and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the to 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 the 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 trying to make our community safer to send his residents a and daycares to make National Forest 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 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 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 would new decision were received little love this special envelopes and associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck forof$7500 and better.” meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history 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 dythese horses. When they’re fi nally ready from representatives of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, “We are very fortunate to have of 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. 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 lowest law en- had years resident. people piece, which is located adjacent to the Then Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fihis rm with branch most can be driven or there, someone of four experience and caliber,” the necessary support viable populations mostly having tothe dowith with theparticipation ingfor trees. They claim the area will been through their art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year.The 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. ago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland 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 in from Hamilton. Part of contest the“He Sheriff Holton said of Weston. is idea came a similar art from 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 logging 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 That developpets.” selection forHouston, awarding that gift See DUI, page 10 well prepared toPolice assume this role.” they held in Texas right af- to be These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, by John Down first created in the last “Itheads really opened the beetle, in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial toIn wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Department all his 26 years with departTucked away on Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli County for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west 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, The Law Enforcement retreat was 50 years.Creek To doRoad. this, theynoted will door tomistletoe some permanent and for $9.5According One the problems, acOne band that to asked return toof Conroy, the the festival’s issued a of press release that detailed ment, Snavely there have only interesting thecontinues project is complete. Ravalli the Draft SEIS limits scope Willow dwarf and just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell 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 withispeople,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we ashosted by Victoria Miralda, who fouthe Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourevent and investigation. However, been three of these types 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 in button, cell batteries (out of feature the beauty ofVeterans 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 beevent joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The nded the nonprofit Victory very little information isstate at amuch However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit organization that offers a pass came up with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the At owner of land channel and the deepest part of the of Vickie Motley, parkwill board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something 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, 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 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, Alliance in 2020. Miralda retired as a free career training program side targetcenter, which is were modeled after a that highly ber, said that nothing had been done at the river ononce the northeast had channel. Ifto you toart develop 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 and without success. campaign, which because helped the unsure ofThe exactly how theshe College was.” However, there 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, 0-6 Army Colonel and combat veteran attempted to shut off river access on for fishing, I officer, would also 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 secretary, Sue Smith. was Theresilience vote will take place were to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to have been a major pine marten. project, the Ravalli County it isCounty 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 inRavalli the wake horses. She and her husband, a ages 18 and older in Wild both and called Itorganization offers similar and Alliance for the in 2015 with 29 years served and has grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer speaking about the organizaMay 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 expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire,beinsects 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 in November See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies suit claiming the created afiled 16-acre haven for veterans gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th.Additional ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA 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 six-month offered officials also received species are listed in and disease;The reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks orForest fromcareer Tractor Supply. relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20406-549-4171 and first responders towith take agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, the ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask public foruse help a a dedicated Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following thosechapter. meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling 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 time out. forthis a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception has been This year, they will be away compete in FFA includAg Sales placebelieve team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by a high rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. and wanted to hold true.” She thephase trustees said that voted inofpreviously many it tobybe whoever walks through their Stevens that thegiving first 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 “The goal isdidn’t to allow veterans, first stayAndrea on, but please remove lids. by the non-profits When 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 comThis program isdraft the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care of is “All Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and responders and their families toworked fully in the Bitterroot, Lander said, ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to with team members Jones, Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. terroot. According tohorses trustee to alter the levy to testing time they iswent to the the district was levy program run Kamryn by the UniversiManager, and Will Ramsey, CPA.first 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. explore recreational activities and give See GOLD, pageis 65 vice chair, Jean Butler, it its best chance to byESTIMATES public, did after being for community funds. After of Montana. reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR HOME Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator of theBrad Environmental habitat including In a they letter to so the Forest first horse thatmeadows, wasand rescued 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch and foundergive tify what each individual’s specific Sergeant Weston, soonFor to bety Undersheriff, withThe Undersheriff growth found the Bitterroot per pound. The following will be acmore 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 them a sacred space to heal and mend, Channing Briese receiving Medal of Merit. Photo by Kristin Kruse. the center, and co-founder and ExecJesse Jessop. Photo P.O. by Kristin Kruse. Paid fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 14 21 ART, page SeeSee SUMMIT, page4 4college cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas oldpublic. a community district twice, the went 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 Cowboy Ball Surviving COVID County Sheriff honors employees Climbing Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Plan
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
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
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