W W W Weeee ell ell SSSSell ell
PRST STD PRST STD PRST STD PRST STD PRST STD US POSTAGE POSTAGE USUS POSTAGE US POSTAGE US POSTAGE PAID PAID PAID PAID PAID STEVENSVILLE MTMT STEVENSVILLE STEVENSVILLE STEVENSVILLE MT MT STEVENSVILLE MT PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT PERMIT 89
icenSeS icenses l llLicenSeS icenSeS
OOUTLET utlet StOre STORE OUTLET STORE
Fall or allyOur your A mu nition FOr*all ammmunitiOn For or all your a mmunition F & Hyour unting Na eemmunition ds H *H La rgunting e selectin on needS of AR-15 Rifl fle es & &H unting eedS & unting n eedS
• •H777-2822 034 w y 9N. 3 N. • • 40344Hwy 93 St4039 evensHWY ville 93 N Stevensville, 4034 HWY 93 NN 406.777.2822 STEVENSVILLE (406) 777-2822 STEVENSVILLE www.amwww.ammoandmorestore.com moandmorestore.com
www.ammoandmorestore.com www.ammoandmorestore.com
Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume XLI, Number Number 2 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, July26, 23, 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 Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical center Bitter Root Humane Association A different take onat Frontier yoga inStevensville Stevensville Three Mile Community Center open Every Tuesday 10am-11am Cafe in
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 review After that of she spent time at the therapy services – provided by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision the environmental by John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website. taxes. It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property Florence-Carlton Community 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 About athe year ago, SteChurch teaching adult ministry. 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 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 theShe ribbon atthat last people week’sthe home found res-It tional last week to theOswald subdivision area. A substantial number of vensville case, thebecame Upper agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as wellMissouri as toto really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan finish Three Mile Community Senior Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the engaing last Wednesday new yoga Howeponded well to physical the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments concern a project. group ous specific, documentable, Ranch in Florence, a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, expressed a resident of theaWaterkeepers West Fork.studio. Heand has was attended by people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the the Center (the official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said “It organization’s 50 years of An open house celebration was for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to ver, of residents close and clearly defined impacts according to She the owner and after anservice, experience 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 saidtowestern they gement which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sothey hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment apart bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Horse Creek to the such as complex will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects of heavy da, and Missoula, and as away as and yoga instructor, it is awith walking of the Camino of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked 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 different take that many may pilgrimage, in Spain, she felt built just of functions as a Last weekend the Bitter animal located on Fairgrounds bunch of 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 dance in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according to have because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank tohas keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit the enjoy. Shari Feeser’s life she should do something Stevensville at thesupporting Humane Association participatMile and Upper road system. Additionally, having the Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on the RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Kathie 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 nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan been guided by her faith as a along thoseSee linesMine, for others page 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in BitteraofnationWoodchuck Road east the be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has 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 Christian, and for her one of in her community. Feeser felt 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 Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in 2014. a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. to club the most underdephysical action withservices. the body expand Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. including developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators thepurest lack ofand information about is technically correct that the the west. She said the for the use and Those payRock Park and the Rapp Fammembers, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel facility, tours of the veloped sides to faith is when helped connect her more toa the event the “Slumber Pawty,” which “We’re bringing Watson Homes LLC who was benefit of is the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or sense duty to provide the statutorily The building isarray now home total cost ments come ily of Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and of food and huge responsibility to honor body to and mind as her spirituality, and allowed opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerDistrict and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, the impacts wildlife on required information lies with” carebefore tosaid the patients, to the senior center and the approximateoutwork ofnearby park Schmiedeke there over the years. Along with their Fire terroot Health CEO, those who have come us and drink in honor of the organization’s members who participated to stay one. She says she found that her another medium through 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 said.be as we set make it as good as he it can 50th birthday. said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, amongFire experience in yoga, and wanwhich to on explore her in faith. She Consultants Inc. (PCI). District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect its imthat serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped 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 12 Schmiedeke proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael plication that the County can TheThe surrounding conassessed, TMCSCothers received reduced ted to bring it toMcMahon others. believed would benefit $165,000 for the Shriners andIn peth, chair ofwithout the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon The Sun- received gle-family residential use dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both yoga the county and from approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices contractors. The Feeser took for four thefrom same thing The Montana Hope Project. It is often said that Mile Community Senior Center board l to r,He Colorganization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, with individual systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County thatmembers, DNRC. the counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the Three is proud that general contractor donated club is utilized byseptic local schools, years locallycriticized and fell in love She also explained that shelalittle 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 new granddaughter of Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts,Wildlife a walking path,Boy a playgroup had they didn’t Teller Refuge, Scouts with it, but it never occurred believes many are 3 bookstores are aon waning SeeChristians CENTER, page pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then the Covid-19 the BRHA land Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run has been four years and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group as Bitto her spell-bound that she would one day limited to intellectual connecbusiness. the among in support of thelease. shelter. with a 99-year Six years later, pandemic hit and construction costs others. in the works, but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut thesessions. ribbon She be leading yoga tion and pursuit in faith. She Shelters all over the U.S. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive di- and One Book Store, in Hamwere some John Bishop, pictured from left, leads gathering peopleskyrocketed. involved in the celebrating the opening of the new animalfifth shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. hasa lived in the of community believes thatthere is a great aspect even out of the country held the had to take out a mortgage to finish the land to the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may take exception for over 30 years. For 14 to faith, butdelays she wanted sometdue to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health building project in a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on the property that had housed the Sue McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Trap Club members line up for a shoot. Photo by Kristin Kruse. thethis, current shelter isrelocated. The to as they were See TRAP, See SHELTER, page years she led youth and teen hing more in the physical to go2 hour period. The event is apage fund-5 pandemic. She said shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and particministry in what is now the their vision is that by John Dowd do. According to Steinhoff, “We have just north ofDowd. the Stevensville Junction. Bitterroot Family Church. an “outstanding bytoNathan Boddy cumstances, having She thatpage the 19 Shari Feeser standsmodel in front the ReMain logo, inside her studio. Photo by John See adds YOGA, ipants each work to raiseoffunds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to theirCity respective Council shelters. met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling “quality, victim way to combat the Hamilton Hamilton Downtown facility will besuch more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as 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. 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,Victoria made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After the time. However, at the end of the Chief Stephen Snavely. open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating to one of them, Every the Ravalli ths, following a serious by Howell 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 toincident thepresentation meeting, during the non-agenda items In his to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, which resulted ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in period, 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 Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conseroverall, doing very well in felony assault15th, charges Sometimes really bad 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 being filed against an emstuff happens and when it The 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 ployee after he allegedly does, all you can do is try 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 slumber party, participants host afool public meeting mishandled one ofhappen themember Jenny to learn from the experienFairgrounds will be held February 12th. is hoff stood to address the council. He said council West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that able to uncover the to say they This are shipand Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” this Wednesday, March children. Devlin, a local ce and do what you can to 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 Overstreet, 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 toRavalli 8ever p.m. See PETS, page 11 owner whose prevent itan from happehosted by the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ingbusiness his experiof the paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share information Wildlife Association and Trout Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several daughter attends SELC, ning again. Sapphire Early ence with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, commondue tactics for and former council member, public at 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, by Victoria Howell regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the stepped up to make sure Learning Center (SELC) in 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 agenda send-from a normal of In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe filled. the daycare continued Stevensville is doing just 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 addiClimbing Management the second regular of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, the first to be brought er running came to the Boxxe Shoppe 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 without interthat. 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 the two-member According to Steinhoff, 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. ruption while changes SELC is a non-profit 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, were made to the daycachildcare facility licensed to 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 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 Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he and was asked to speak, and was who graduated high school in just January 27, town clerk Jenelle re’s administration care for children ages 0-12. 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 join theSteinhoff meeting. Five fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to operation. The center is located atthat 216 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“Ilast administration. In currentfrom Hamilton, was recbutuse wishes similar meetings audience that was having good as chair oflanded the Cowboy Ball committee. put my other busiCollege, adjacent totheir the 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 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 ness obligations on hold United Methodist Church; 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 for over two months to however, the two entities, 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 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. take over as director until although affiliated, are run 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 we could find the right independently from one 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 another, and SELC is not a person,” said Devlin, who 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 theisanycustomgrab 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 requirestill working at SELC “church” daycare. 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 part-time. The facility iswill governed week’s meeting covsession. “It’s public comment. ” did the work at no charge to opened at the same location. 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 directors. years, and spent muchThe board submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to this The day after that Overstreet. er the following agenda was “proacby a board of er, dissuading any worries about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there thethehad which was to victim to send it, ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who hadthe tried to access the details years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing the “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, he was isfrauduwhen realized tive” following the inciOne of board members, changeover, itrole willhunting remain plays a 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 saidbeen it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with I was nota good dent, according to There Devlin. Jaime Devlin, has art. After two months of renovations material. are 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe 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 center, forDevlin, filling in while town Greg objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid while hidden behind brown-paper and the owners always help from running the daycare center ly,They it covwassought notso far, manded from ofattorney 1970 requires banks toMayhan, Leftare to right, Julie Ludington, SELC board Jaime SELC board member and interim director; Kelsey being on themember; other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes ofcouple the public of Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. Pictured with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s welcoming more. “We like all kinds patience as she worked “I was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s first senior citizen keep track of withdrawals for the last of Studio mon- opened See SAPPHIRE, page 4 new SELC director, and Alyssa Fusco, professional development specialist with SPARK. Photo by Victoria Howell. he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations 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 issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new “It business feature Suzette Smith. encountered See page 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg Overstreet talksbusiness about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, tothe commuOverstreet. hit will Jim Crews, former mayor to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom leatherwork by Karen Some such cirStaub is Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants 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 proved adoption of a memorandum of understandof tooling which features variations on has changed since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contests by ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue workbyJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing withthe the Ravalli County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith took A Hamilton business,Inthat hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice the 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 Hoot-owl restrictions took effect Wednesday, July 16 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, 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 Departon the Bitterroot River from Veteran’s Bridge inparticipants. Hamilto 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 must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone through some big River. LastChief year, of thePolice, previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police were ment Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ton to the confluence withofficers the Clark Fork ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to 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 A new 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 by Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible Hoot-owl restrictions prohibit fishing from 2 p.m. to 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 Victoria 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, for filing objecmidnight each day. These restrictions will stay in effect byher Victoria his 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 own twotook casing the participant’s love of Corvallis 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. ThebyFortunately, 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 Farrenuntil conditions improve. shut 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 FWP’s drought policy provides for angling restricThe 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 tions when flows drop below critical levels for fish, when 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 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. water quality is diminished or when maximum daily 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 reach Bitterroot facility inofficers Corvallis, gotitem aatnice these giants.” there are asking the community students at schools Stevensville bridge, an that and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the water temperatures least 73was degrees for three 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 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 consecutive days. Water temperatures of 77 degrees or 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 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 more can be lethal to trout. 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 These restrictions are designed to protect fish that Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, 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 four years resident. Then people piece, which is located adjacent tomostly themortality Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out become more to disease and when said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fisusceptible rm with branch most can be driven or there, the necessary support viable populations 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 water temperatures warm. Restricting angling to only ridden, and some just become “pasture located in from Hamilton. Part of contest the logging 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 of old growth, new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre area of The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office is a great place to be a police officer.” center opened its doors in 2020 after tines to fill the enveto Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered to the Town this piece of land. “It’s where two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 That developcool morning hours canTexas help catch-and-release pets.” selection forHouston, awarding thatreduce gift See DUI, page 10 they held in right afThese also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, by John Down first to be 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 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 ofestablished the river,and then mortality. 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 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 consolCatch-and-release anglers can reduce stress on fish tains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to was 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 ask the community conversations withispeople,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asthe 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 or former issues… It is the fastest part of the idate highway property into the Town by getting them to the in hand quickly, keeping The original proposal was The next glass recycling in button, cell batteries (out of feature the beauty of net the andto participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” pass levy, which BVCC said speaking about was exorbitant andin occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1commented Horse At Aavailable Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They beevent joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information isstate at toamuch However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit organization that offers aprior came up with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the owner ofand land channel and the deepest part of the of Vickie Motley, parkwill board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something them in the water and reviving them releasing 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, which is were modeled after a that highly ber, said that nothing had been done at the river ononce theriver. northeast side had channel. Ifto you toart develop them back into the 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, 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. officer is warms, currently on leave neither the norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I officer, would also see aother problem the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 AsThe the summer Montana offers many other 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 organization 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 in the wake horses. She and her husband, a ages 18 and older in both Ravalli and called It offers similar and Alliance for the Wild angling options with better conditions for fish, including 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 on 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 expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire,beinsects Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toelevation services, to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed claiming the larger lakes orofsuit reservoirs, or higher lakes andaccording gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th.Additional ing director 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 streams. agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask public foruse help with a the 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 Along with monitoring stream temperatures, FWP 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 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, also monitors stream flows anddoors. in some streams holds 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 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 didn’t comThis program isdraft therights. brainchild ofwater program calledcan “personal development,” which instream flowofwater FWP’s taking care is “All Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and 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 worked 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 idenissue a call on junior water users, when appropriate, to an 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. See GOLD, pageis 65 vice chair, Jean Butler, give it its best chance to byESTIMATES public, did after being for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR HOME Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator of the Environmental habitat including meadows, In a they letter to so the Forest first horse that wasand rescued 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch and founder tify what each individual’s specific growth found the Bitterroot contribute to stream flows through the late summer and per pound. Thebeing 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 significantly voted down the center, and co-founder and ExecThe Bitterroot River.page Bitterroot Star file photo. early fall. Paidthe fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 14 21 See ART, See 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, 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 Cowboy Ball Surviving COVID Sapphire Early Learning Center moving forward Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
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 Hoot-owl restrictions in effect on part of Bitterroot River 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
Davis for Senate Dist. #44
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN THE
SOUTHGATE To MALL Protect our493-0051 Heritage