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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume XL, Number Number 48 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, June26, 11, 2025 Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 2022 Wednesday, January 13, 2024 March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2,9, Wednesday, April 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Hamilton first in Science Olympiad Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercenter open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Michael Howell by Kristin Kruse
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the proper Thechanges park additional impact on people’s 15 individuals canservices compete– in Nathan Boddy therapy provided by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other inby the subdivision review analysis oftaxes. the environmental by John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many similar talks about Allianceof website. It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property 23 different events, which “reThe Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. public safety, and across the impacts byincluding handing its 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, the Bitterroot Health flect the ever-changing nature of Science Olympiad is a naCommissioners gave condiAccording to the prelimito the rural character of the was also discussed. In that mandated duties to other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people were lined up out the door. Ramsey is a founder of the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. “It was Mile Community Center is up who serves on to take out a project was paid for by the been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut genetics, the ribbon at last week’s earth science, chemistionwide non-profit organizational last week to nary plat the subdivision is area. A substantial number of case, the Upper Missouri agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at MPG Oswald heard Ramsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as well as really a good turnout,” said Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both the park loan to finish Three Mile Community Senior Valley since 1947. A place for and lab services. ceremony, said concerning the ing last Wednesday try, anatomy, physics, geology, tion dedicated to the advancethe 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 the Waterkeepers West Fork. Heand has was attended by(the people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the the Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said organization’s 50 years of service, An open house celebration was engineering and“It of science education for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to ofment residents close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and inliving school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they mechanical which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sotechnology.” for students K-12th grade. Its they hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root was started by a bunch of little old by John Dowd ment on a 49.22-acre parcel the Florence-Carlton School existing wells in the area that the proposed Horse Creek to the environment such as complex that will be County Fish Wildlife Association RCFWA. The event was co-sponsored specifically studied the effects of heavy da, and Missoula, and as far away as of Lonecompete Rockand Park. The center board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, and honebuildtheir This year, Hamilton High mission is, “to host exciting 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 built just of functions as a students Sierra Berry competitive tournaments and been Last weekend the Bitter animal located on Fairgrounds ofSchool little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular tripslimited. per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County and dance in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit the Stevensville at thesupporting and Haven Oshell raised thethe bar professional development Humane Association participatMile and Upper road system. Additionally, having the Department of Natural analyze the impacts on RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Butts, President of the president ofRoad the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, andand hassome been alreadyhis bio ontothe Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this ain 2012 their loan Kathieto nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai for area students by placing first workshops that showcase ed for the first time in a nationWoodchuck Road east of the 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 Bitteron Drop continuing to in the Bungee competiinnovative STEM (Science 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 expand tion at Park the 41st Annual Science Technology Engineering Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. including developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct that the the west. She said the for the use and Those payRock and theservices. Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel aFamfacility, tours of the Olympiad National TournaMathematics) to stuevent the “Slumber Pawty,” whichbenefit “We’rethe bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was of is the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity content and quality, or sense duty to provide statutorily The building isarray now home total cost ments come ily of Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and of food and huge responsibility to honor ment. The event was hosted by dents and teachers throughopened 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 of before us and ” drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s the University Nebraska-Linout the United States.” members who participated to stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who own programs, the club supports he said.be as we set make as good as it can 50th birthday. said that Marcus andon itself in as,its “The Those competitive eventsbeing are it coln, the night with theraised animals, amongFire Consultants Inc. (PCI). District. Creek. In his ruling, already District Court County isbilled incorrect imthatJohn serves Lone Rock School. When helped theLois project, and charities and has over Hedgeby Dowd The private non-profi t organization the course for the next 50 years.” Daly Hospital had highest level of science competisomething akin to an academother fun activities. Between 12 proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the reduced County can TheThe surrounding conSchmiedeke assessed, TMCSC received $165,000 for the Shriners and The Science Olympiad Team.SunPhoto provided by Vanessa Haflich. chair the McCormack said that the ofwithout wasHHS fiSaturday rst organized inuse 1972. In 1984, ic track meet. teams noon and 12 noon gle-family residential dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized bothStudent the county and approve a peth, subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke pricesSee from contractors. The 4 SCIENCE, page The Hope Project. The received ItMontana 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, little owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the animals, fundraisingSee campaign to fund the new granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, ashelter walking a wore playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts 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 TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of thelease. shelter. with a 99-year Six years later, pandemic hit and construction others. in the works, costs but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded 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 the opening of the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the country held the had to take out a mortgage to finish the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on Trap the property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. She said2 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 partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the 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,to made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After Chiefthe time. Snavely. However, at the end of the Stephen open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating one of them, Every the Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his thepresentation meeting,toduring the non-agenda items In the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in the Burnt area to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion thelately counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conseroverall, doing very well visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. by Victoria Howell are being recruited. There will also be he said, with clinics in to Covid, Greg sent home from retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successvation inofthe Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Many the participants that The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe a other 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 tional Forest (BNF) willRoberttoSteinThe Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: of the such council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. “become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One is their the party, participants hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. is hoff stood to address the council. He said council member Jenny West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that happen able to uncover the to say they This are shipand Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. expenses have only or awards three winners who can 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing11 his experiof the paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share Association informationand Troutence Wildlife Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several 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 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. 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, theShoppe first to be brought er came to the Boxxe ing to aforward scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Plan (CMP). The virtual“I thought counciltoand mayor howoflocal tional council members. meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to was the issue re-roofing the city intending send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. Now by John Dowd of that as the executive director. of the winners to receive a Mara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo by John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate for 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, 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 graduated Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who high school in just January 27, town clerk Jenelle 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 August theSteinhoff meeting. Fivethat fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other maintesuggested to him that he victims, get involved people all over the valley,” and all of it hosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law and the executive completed a she semester of college the last administration. In currentfrom Hamilton, was recbutuse wishes similar meetings audience that was having good as chair oflanded the Cowboy Ball committee. told that the cancer got I potential felt familiar with of so herbadHe in jail,rewarding.” or that a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRa- course to network. then got onto the board has been “extremely for members, giving their report, director. Al gave a history of the and submitted her transcript that others within the commupublic comment, Crews told ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held in Freeman said the committee hopes to raise trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a fee needs had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was not very mer, it is the original roof, which has in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became Al was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding proof 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 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. 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 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 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 billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. AlAllen spoke, Jodi stood to to thank Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately the anycustomgrab thehelp package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there gle and triumphs,” said Al. He said the organization’s history. According to him for all his and to remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual cowboy ball – which actually Another of these requiretreatment the boarding to had be to be provided with a ride 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. HowLarrywhen Goodman snapped er’scould in was meant to be a six-month front door 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 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 this photo of 17 Bighorn 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 that years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to this The day after Overstreet. er the following agenda er, dissuading any worries about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there details thethehad which was to victim to send it,membership ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted rams on June 4 just off who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment the cussing thewas “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that year. topics: surgery, isfrauduwhen realized changeover, itrole willhunting remain 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 Joan for helpHwy 93 near Sula. GoodThe Town of Stevensville recognized attorney Joan Mell, of it. “It’s been a good ride for 29 numbers have been “trending every she says, pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall “This is the first year we’ve ever doneAct aup fully diagnosed with I was not art. After two months of renovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe Bank Secrecy ation. Photo courtesy Upchurch. man said he’s lived in the years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town, ” flags abound when seniors are in while town Greg objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling while hidden behind brown-paper ly, it covwas notso far, and the owners are always manded from ofattorney 1970 requires banks to being on the other side and partaking,” area for his entire life being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes of the public ofPictured Montanawith Catering Service provide theofand had Covid-19. Mell are, l towill Overstreet, ered windows, Studio opened for“I patience as Jake’s she worked was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s firstwelcoming more. “We like all kinds senior citizen keep track ofr, withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page is 80 years old, and all of a never seen soorder many rams 5 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 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 together. 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. Photo by Victoria Howell. at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page by Michael 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, 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one ofpage 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 A Hamilton business,Inthat hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice thetook change atthe all,space. andinvestigation. itWhile may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After ing and marketing one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the Protection Agency. The letter the commissioners stated National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a video designed to her leatherwork, Karen is also an RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working to en1889, and the contest is still looking agricultural and leadership competito the state level and secured invitaby Since Michael Howell 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 to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations Plan. manage timber to provide courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of thePolice, previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to A new the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. SEIS for record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on by Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of by John Dowd like in Missoula. It is also without from those sales. “Then, the airport stay afloat is through a land usevalley, agreejewelry 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 suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all toart, put envelopes on January 18,participant’s for filingby objecbyher Victoria hisCorvallis property which would inMissoula effect with theall highway, which is aathose state addressed when the private land was Mischief Room May and commissioners the commercial aspect realizes theExit income from ment with the U.S. Forest Service. all work isHowell done her twotook casing the loveown of and Florence schools inthe April. for Stevensville include: $240,000 and spent every penny. venville’s beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. rights thatmain pertained tothat the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still thefuel Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The Fortunately, engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also roads heavy equipment the scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by most a drag, Draft treatment units. According toGermane.This all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re going to on it. sold toproject aing new owner Fish, Wildlife signed off The involved creation of tions to the Draft SupplemenOn June 11, 2024, the company has, and unlike the Hamilton Airport, sales,” said will be a This money comes from when the U.S. hands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the active, though all Over 200 students in StevensAgronomy led by Sidney McJasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of put valentine cards in kopf, activities director The Stevensville Town CounPark, a 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucks pulling and Parks got involved. The once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging trucks, mostly, a set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding that services and manages the fuel which is struggling with space so half million dollar project, according Forest Service utilizes the airport for ATRowner Smart Procedures is a softschools ininvolved the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofnorth 1 Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer shooting See EXIT, page atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether to accept just toreally the north of the private piece oftheing boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toShinn theKyra state compartments where someone could stash some tank at the Stevensville Airport decidmuch so that there may be expansion to Germane. fire fighting efforts. Germane said this 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. drugs or hide a small flask of whiskey. The aim was ed toThe discontinue service to Stevensneeded in its near future. The project went out for bid, and seems to be the only good thing about 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 attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility inofficers Corvallis, gotitem a nice these giants.” Then there are asking community students schools Stevensville bridge, that was and negotiated thethis donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’s [the piece the toSince provide aand learning opportunity toon the ville. Thisthe meant thatanfor theowners first timeatSome To accomplish mission, the winning bid was selected. fires, that itObjective is led really, “not asee good Montana, themeasures organization lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is the source to “Maintain dards. 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 various ways in which any young person can hide in nearly 50 years, the Stevensville Stevensville’s airport saw two paths 95% of the funding will come from the way to manage an airport.” 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 envethe 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 for $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use the land is to town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres Airport was without fuel. According to before it. The first, and more shortFAA, as soon as they get thethe fundHaving the funding from the fuel state and the people. One of 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, Stevensville Airport Manager, Brian term of the two, was to seek another ing, they can put a down payment on sales would “take a big bite out of that 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 forWolff law en- had four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent to the Council member Marilyn Michaelson said he looked up the for ley. “There are many carswould out said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch most can be driven or there, the necessary support viable populations mostly having totothe do with the ingThis trees. They claim the area Germane, this was “devastating” to theThen vendor service the tank. was the tank so thatwill initial construction deficit,” said Germane, and been through their art contest. The even more, with full participation their knowledge to the testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes and found that the land Imembers think it can be used for parking. But then younor don’t see. Ifthis you don’t see, then you don’t ridden, and some just become “pasture located in from Hamilton. Part oftraveling the logging local airport users and users done, and as of June 5, the tank was can begin. The tank will need a 20“make airport financially viable.” idea came a similar art contest all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally sancZane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine during the project, the of old growth, new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 constructed through the Because this,first the fueled. According to Germane, withweek lead time,and then the Therefore, the tank addition would fix pets.” selection forarea. awarding thatofgift See DUI, page 10 they held in Houston, Texas right af- to be These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, by John Down created in the last “Itheads really opened the in 2020. That developfirst was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, 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 asaaimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west ofestablished the river, then airport has been “on a quest to find in the next couple weeks, after some components can be delivered to the two problems: the need for fuel and 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, and 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. way to restore fuel to the airport,” said to was more servicing, they hope have the with airport. They hope to have this opthe budgetary concerns. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last year, toto have that To Johnny contend at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third need ask the community conversations people,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asis the Campbell Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourevent and investigation. However, been three of these types of shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a or not needed in the community. They of itsphone environmental consespruce budwormerational damage. County objects to shifting Bitterroot National Forest During the tenure of former issues… It is the fastest part of the years. idate highway property into the Town The original proposal was Germane. pump turned on. by late this year orbeearly The other thing the airport has The next glass recycling event in button, cell batteries (out of feature theorganization beauty of the andto participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” levy, which BVCC said speaking about was exorbitant andin occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1commented Horse Aavailable Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They will joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information isstate at amuch However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit that offers a pass came up with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the At owner ofand land channel and the deepest part of the of Vickie Motley, parkthe board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials have stated that the Prior to the closure of the fuel As for the second path, one which next year. The sooner better, as been working on is securing a grant 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 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. tank, users were all accustomed to will address the problem for the long Germane added, “It’s when we get for asphalt and runway repairs. A couto 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. The officer is currently on leave neither the norin any other comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I officer, would also see problem the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 fuel being available. This is especialterm, the airport able toasecure our new tank that see some good ple years ago the had end of the Ravalli Fairnow you canRunning save up to bring them contest was the way toShe go. According come in all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road secretary, Sue Smith. was Theresilience vote will take placewas to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to airport have been aserious major pine marten. project, the Ravalli County it we’ll isCounty contrary to law forest to natural single-microphone type event, with When asked why he loves bluegrass, during this investigation, as iswake stanmunity members, were harmed during That check followed inRavalli the horses. She and her husband, a ages 18 and older in Wild both and called “Crosspurpose.” Itorganization offers similar and Alliance for the ly important as Stevensville is often 100% funding from the Federal Aviarevenue for the airport.” work done to bring the runway and 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 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 toon services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming the considered by many pilots to be the tion Administration (FAA) and MonThis isJars aneducation important aspect of the aprons up to good condition. They gallon. and bottles that con8th.Additional ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag 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 The six-month offered Forest officials also received indicator species are listed in and disease; sedi- ofprogram concern over impacts to Germane fromcareer Tractor Supply. relocated tomake Montana and bought a 20406-549-4171 agency failed to use the best “gateway to the backcountry,” tanareduce Department Transportation’s project. spoke openly about hope to that investment last tained drinks or food be recycled Cardboard recycling be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, the ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask public for help with a accordCarrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college. According to also Butler, mentoring, support and friendship to sources is broken down into three acre farm which Shinn said can support That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip Strobel the Forest Plan, but it is not county owned and maintained ment in the Willow ing to Germane. Aeronautics Division forfrom a new tank. finances, stating that can the with this project, which will work on forairport a (second fee.together Any 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 place team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 JCCS to Shinn from left) 1 Horse At by a high rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. and wanted to hold true.” She the trustees said the that this voted inofpreviously many believe it tobybe whoever walks through their Stevens that thegiving first phase isJasmin RDOequipment.com about 20Sponsored horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear there are lanes, other roads, especially Willow Creek Director ofStevensthe NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve He also explained how thecontest airport This will allow theprizes. Stevensville Airport annual expenditures ofMissoula the improving thewhether runway and taxi stayAndrea on, but please remove lids. by the non-profits When speaking about the around $4,700 in This ining the AA schools in and Kayton French, 3rd place individual community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreach A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l to r: Levi Clark, CPA, Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comThis program the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care ofisdraft is “All is well positioned between communitohabitat; establish its own “fuel farm,” as they iswent ville airport are around $64,000. ThetoAdminincluding crack repair, and 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 Stevensville, with team members Jones, Office of the Regional bull restore Road. terroot. According tohorses trustee worked to alter the levy to testing time to the the district was levy program run Kamryn byresealing the UniversiManager, and Will Ramsey, CPA.first pictured Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable ply with the definition of old power duo Myla Yahraus, the owner involves aptitude toAlso idenan expensive proposition. Last ties, with reasonable lease rates, easy Germane referred to it, and will inairport revenue is currently only at re-striping. 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, 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 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 growth found the Bitterroot to get in and out for pilots and not clude all the infrastructure to sell their $36,000. With such a large deficit, per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of being significantly voted down the center, and co-founder and ExecPaid for by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 21 See AIRPORT, page14 2 page SeeSee SUMMIT, page4 4college over developed or busy with airold traffic all ART, ofa the funding Germane added that the only way they cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas public. own fuel, and retain community district twice, the trustees wentP.O. back
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Bitterroot Bighorn rendezvous Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
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 Stevi airport gets fuel again Spreading love Local draft horse rescue thriving Stevi to return park to county setland 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
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