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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 44 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, May26, 14, 2025 Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Wednesday, January 13, 2024 Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2, April 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Mine talk draws hundreds Hamilton bond goes down celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercenter open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Michael Howell by Kristin Kruse
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the proper Thechanges park additional impact on people’s therapy services – provided by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision review the environmental by John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.oftaxes. It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property The Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. safety, and across impacts byincluding handing its the aoff therapy theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek Mine proposal. event drew over 220 people The TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, decisionTherience Infor addition to the loan, by public Nathan Boddy the process authority to sellthe thestate existing our middle school Bitterroot Health Commissioners gave condiAccording toonthewere prelimito the rural character of the ismiddle was school, alsoofdiscussed. In that mandated duties to“It other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people lined up out the door. Ramsey a founder the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. was Mile Community Center is up who serves to take out a project was paid for by been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging district leaders students and staff and will work held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to theOswald subdivision area. A substantial number of hadcase, the Upper agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, asthat wellMissouri as really atowards good turnout,” said Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan to finish Three Mile Community Senior Valley since 1947. A place for The May 6th special envisioned a future a solution that’s best and lab services. ceremony, said concerning the ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments expressed concern Waterkeepers and a group ous specific, documentable, Ranch in Florence, a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, a resident of the West Fork. He has was attended by people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the the project. Center (the official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting district election in Ravalli sale would offset the cost of confor our district and Bishop said “It organization’s 50 years of community. service, An open house celebration was for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts tostructing of residents living close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could withdid the a Ph.D in microbiology and infacility. school western Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidto they Thank which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, soCounty not deliver the a new The disyou to all of the staff, adtheyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells the area thatstudied proposed Creek to the such as complex will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically the effects ofinput heavy da, and Missoula, and away as of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, compete and hone their outcome that the in Hamilton trictthe sought publicHorse in the min, teachers, communications ladies 1972 andinto it’s still runopen by amay Humane Association’s (BRHA) the facility of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hillsleading subdivision challenged the decreasing water abun(RCFWA), on Creek by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Unmetal contamination in rivers. has Helena and even Idaho. ing contains athe large meeting they started Farmers State in rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also functions as Mine a new built just of Sheep School District wanted. Nearmonths upHe to last week’s team, parents and A&EThis Designs Last weekend the Bitter Root animal shelter located on Fairgrounds bunch of little old ladies.” near the intersection of Eight ular trips per day to the local lowering of static water levels both Broadwater County and dance in the area and failing proposal. According to Mark Oswald, limited. Ramsey, according to Oswald, published over 70 papers, according to have been because many area conserroom, a warming kitchen, a working on Bank to keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit supporting the ly 62% of the ballots cast were bond, and finalized a preferred for their hard work during this Stevensville at the participatHumane Association Mile and Upper road system. Additionally, and alreadyhis having the that Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on the RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Butts, President of the president ofRoad the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, and hassome been bio ontotheoption Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this ain 2012 their loan Kathie nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan against the proposed bond would have carried a campaign.” See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in BitteraofnationWoodchuck Road east the be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has double purpose. included system, and a gorgeous view a ribbon andapplicant incorpo- is proposing to which payments contributors were the Three programs such as It The would have seen the price tag of $49 million. NoneIn the lead-up to the vote, on continuing to al “slumber party” event. The Creek Road and Florence. TheAccording land is honor being a 100-foot by 100- replacement were also of expressed about thetheless, (DNRC) over the process and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothededicate rated reasonable. Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in 2014. come a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. to club the 100-yearfrustration over rising theMile district had emphasized the expand services. Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. including developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct that the the west. She said the for the use and oldimpacts Those payRock Park and the Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel aFamfacility, tours of the middle school with a new taxes and cost of living in the deteriorating condition of the event the “Slumber Pawty,” whichbenefit “We’re bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was of is the Florence Rural facility. dependent on the Eight 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 And while only 36%Mile of Bitterroot Valley—particularly current middle school faciliopened 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 eligible Ravalli County voters in the wake of the pandem- those who ty, including thebefore 50-year-old terroot CEO, have come us and ” drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s members who participated to stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who own programs, the club supports he said. engaged in the special elecic-driven land rush—appeared building with make ittemporary as good as“pod” it can be as we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, amongFire Consultants Inc. (PCI). District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect in its imthat serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has over tions, the defeat of the bond to have factored heavily into the the course thin for walls, lighting, Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization theinadequate nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 Schmiedeke proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can TheThe surrounding conassessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners andIn was decisive. result. and poor ventilation. Trustees 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 bothPresident the county and like approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Montana Hope Project. Following a 2024 ballot School Board Eli Johnson had expressed It is often said that Mile Community Senior Center board l to r,He Colconducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, with individual systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County thatmembers, DNRC. criticized the organization counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the Three is proud that hope general contractor donated club is utilized byseptic local schools, measure that gave theWendy district Patrick Hanley acknowledged that the successful 2024 lalittle locally owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and 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 the outcome with measured ballot measure a page shift 3 bookstores are aon waning Seesignaled CENTER, 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 fourabout years and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, optimism and gratitude. in public understanding Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Albond Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among The special election to build in support of thelease. shelter. with a 99-year Six years later, pandemic hit and construction costs others. “Although I am disappointed the need for updated school inin the works, but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon a newBoard facility and retire the 100 Shelters all over the U.S. skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive di- and in the bond election results” frastructure. However, with the One Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured fifth from left, leads a gathering of people involved in the celebrating the opening of theold new animal Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the country held the year facility thatshelter housesinthe take out a mortgage to finishbe the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been said Hanley, “I believe in ourhad to bond defeat, the district ilton, may exception delays due towill the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health building project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility Hamilton Middle School failed last on the property that had housed the Sue McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Trap Club members line up for a shoot. Photo by Kruse. the current shelter is located. The community. I know the board to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. She said22 week. Photo by Nathan Boddy. shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of aKootenai CreekexpeRoad and Hwy 93 See BOND, page new building replaces an old building wants great learning 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 weeks earsaidother thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the by John Dowd utilized to refuel nic Farrenkopf and 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.aircraft After Chief However, at the end of the in thethe air.time. Snavely. Police 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 toOften, thepresentation meeting, during the non-agenda items Sometimes, people who Assothese included In his to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife it 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 counhave not served in milimodified B-50 and B-24 Council on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways they ciation works to the 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 tary look at service through bombers and later the 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 of Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe amovDuring the public period comments. the lens action KC-97 Stratofreighter. Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that over they ful. Joined by other showing revenues various projects and programs. spent the night were kids. During tional Forest (BNF) willRobert The Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: of the council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. ies andsuch Hollywood. The flewmore all of these, toStein“become vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One is their Meppen 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 shipproblem with this view is and finally the Boeing and 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 that it is not only rarely the KC-135 Stratotanker, 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 also toRavalli 8 leaves p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish and 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 reality, but it which is department’s still used today. an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share information Wildlife Association and Troutence Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, commondue tactics for out many elements that At 95former years old, Mepand 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 just cannot be portrayed pen looked back at his 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 Sometimes 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 on screen. service career, from 1953 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, the first to be brought er came to the Boxxe Shoppe ing to aforward scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, these things are emotional, when he became an ofOne 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 Planother (CMP). The virtual council mayor howoflocal tional council members. meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to was the issue re-roofing the city intending toand send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli and times they are “I thought ficer, to when he retired 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 I government street shop. According to Hamilton via FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse the suspense informed by in 1973. By the end of hisannounced the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the After it was 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 Works Director, Donny customer was frequent commenter Gibson aJanuary lot ofgraduated historical context. heahad overPublic 6,000 got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, theSometimes experiencethey has been On Wednesday, March 27, career the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who high school in just 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 Sometimes, it is about stohours of flying time, 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, have been put to in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved one has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other mainteries of flying glorified gas and countless hours of and the suggested 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 currentfrom executive completed a she semester of college the last administration. In Hamilton, was recpotential but wishes similar meetings audience that was having good use as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee. told that the cancer I felt familiar with of so herbadHe landed in jail,rewarding.” or that a prize about the track record ofannual the waiting. company nance equipment. According Ra- course stations through the sky, to got network. thenothers got onto the board has been “extremely for members, giving their report, director. Al gave told a history of thetochamand submitted herin transcript that within the commupublic comment, Crews ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held Freeman saidAlthe committee hopes trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a to feeraise needs had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was not very mer, it is the original roof, which has and waiting around for the Originally from Idaho in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding proof of compLeting nity would help her look out 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 end of the world. Falls, he attended the 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. “We passed gas,” joked University of taking Idaho.on the position. 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 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 Ken Meppen, when asked During the Korean war, 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 the 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 what hescholarship. did in the miliU.S. Air Force was 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 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, Rivthe work of more than a dozen local approximately the anycustomgrab thehelp package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there tary. Meppen worked for offering aviation cadet 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 andwith 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 city was doing, or Strategic Command school for those two goal overarching for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what he was only supposed to held speak for year 10 Mitchell has been with the Chamments isAir 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 ever, members of the public (SAC) with the United years of college and these 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 of thethe which was to victim to send it, ‘no signature Thecould mayor had said previousthe town. “I just wanted States Airtried Force most theplays people become who had tofor access years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing the role hunting “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, he was isfrauduwhen realized changeover, it will 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 help-beenshe of his• Review career, and much of notofficers, so that’s whatbe answering publicly thank Joanoffor Thesays, Town offorStevensville recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, it. “It’s ride 29“This numbers have been “trending every pointing out that red Facebook page said it was overall is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with that I was nota good art. After two months of renovations material. There are 16 artists in total Unfortunatelently deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. itobjectives was spentand flying air refuMeppen did. Graduating 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 desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling while hidden behind brown-paper covsothe far, and the owners are always ly, it school was not manded from ofattorney 1970 requires banks to eling tanker These flight in being on the other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews alsoclass said that they said Overstreet. outcomes ofplanes. the public of Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. Pictured with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened welcoming more. “We like all kinds for patience as she worked “I was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s first senior citizen keep track of withdrawals are massive planes that of ‘55, he said that during he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should be prepared for some its doors March 1. of mediums,” said Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” said through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and can •carry a lot of weight, Ken Meppen sits outside Sapphire Lutheran Homes, in Hamilton. Photo by John Dowd. sudden they’re coming into the The15 Boxxe Shoppe’s new location Provide an update See GAS, page 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 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 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 albe inthere Hieronymus Park. by Nathan Boddy 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 will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, show95th State FFA the Convention inhas Billings district championships by Howell year, the2023-24 facility took inthe just under The sign for Jake’s Studio, SteThe councilors also held aon pubby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rocknot be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though franchise split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all toart, put envelopes on January 18,participant’s for filingby objecbyher Victoria hisCorvallis property which wouldschools in effect with the highway, which is aastate addressed when the private land was Mischief$240,000 Room May and commissioners all work isHowell done her twotook casing the loveown of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: and spent every penny. licrights hearing to consider the execuThe Hamilton CityFortunately, Council venville’s main beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also roads heavy theowner scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by a drag, Draft treatment units. According to Exit all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re goingequipment sold toproject aing new Fish, Wildlife signed off on it. The involved creation of tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the most active, though all Over 200 students in StevensAgronomy led by Sidney Mction of a Legal Services Agreement considered several actions during Jasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of put valentine cards in kopf, activities director The Stevensville Town CounPark, a 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucks pulling and Parks got involved. The once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging trucks, mostly, a set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding ATR Smart Procedures is a softschools in the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement with with law firm Boone Karlberg their regular meeting Tuesday, Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current owner of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofnorth 1onHorse reportedly charged at the responding officer involved shooting See EXIT, page atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether to accept just toreally the north of the private piece oftheing boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toShinn theKyra state compartments where someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s Forest-wide but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment about 90% of proposed ware design company, now based in participate. Some of the schools even learn about a wide range of agriculteam members Quinn Rahl, Desof Missoula to assist with filing May 7. New business for the council (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 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, claims against 3M-Dupont should allareas areVictor. included confirmation April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotof aregular nice these giants.” there are asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an item that was at schools and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the to provide a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, themeasures organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn Hacka contamination of PFAS (Peremployee status for Jamie Munson Neely 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 various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen inappointment loveby with the andespecially Accordingproud tolopes. theSubstances) orga-a time engaging ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team Polyfluoroalkyl as Utility Billing Clerk, Last year the the music. This spring festival“Iother always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuofcontest this during old-growth habitat disease treatment because ofinstruction tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this special envelopes associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck forof$7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river and access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and lopes were so full they The project is now be found in the city’s water. City of Dirk Beyer to a three-year term 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, 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 Attorney Karen Maher explained on theAbout city’s Police Commission and from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even from his wounds and was pronounced seeing the member lowest law en- had four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then Council Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars 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 having to‘forever dowith with theparticipation ingfor trees. They claim the area will been through their artacontest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year.The that these chemicals’ have the approval of a Memorandum 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 from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. But then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’t ridden, and some just become “pasture located in from Hamilton. Part of contest the logging idea came a similar art all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the of old growth, been found in various locations of Understanding with Bitterroot new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 That developpets.” selection forHouston, awarding thatfor gift See DUI, page 10 they held in Texas right af- tothroughout These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, by John Down first be created in the last “Itheads really opened the beetle, in 2020. first was to the drawing board. the state, that Valley Community College the beetle, Douglas-fir bark rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial toIn wildlife and toand hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away onCounty Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest in the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli for use as aimpacts roads converge, the bank is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west ofestablished the river,and then was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the events of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, 50 years. To do this, they will door to some permanent and for $9.5According One the problems, accertain firms willing to work in occasional use of City Hall’s conOne band that to asked return toof Conroy, the the festival’s issued a of press release that detailed ment, Snavely noted there have only interesting thecontinues project is complete. Ravalli the Draft SEIS limits scope Willow Creek Road. dwarf mistletoe and just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to are decide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to was astonished, last year, to have 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 totandem ask the community conversations withispeople,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we aswith municipalities which ference room. The councilors also the 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 budwormyears. damage. County objects to shifting Bitterroot National Forest During the tenure of former issues… It is the fastest part of the idate highway property into the Town The original proposal was The next glass recycling in button, cell batteries (out of feature the beauty of the andto participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” amuch 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 have aand valid claim against granted a permission the Heroes from Nashville. They beevent joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information isstate at may However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit organization that offers a pass came up with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, thefor owner ofand land channel the deepest part of the of Vickie Motley, parkwill board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info so to give back to the community, “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 manufacturers of the chemicals. and Hot Rods Car Show Fund Raiser 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. 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 thethe agreement, the partto take place on the grounds of 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 nor any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization in Denver, attempted to shut off river on Through for fishing, I officer, would also see aother problem the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 end of the Ravalli Fairnow you canRunning save up to bring them contest was the way toMemorial go. According come in“Crosspurpose.” all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road secretary, Sue Smith. She was Theresilience vote will take placetake 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 nering firms would charge Hieronymus Park onWild Day 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 both and called Itorganization offers similar and Alliance for the grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will the ninth schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer speaking about the on Mayof7, via aclaims mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 filing behalf ofyear the they (Monday, May 26). The event is single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire,beon insects Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition tobeservices, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming the gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th.Additional ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA state qualifying events tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. public desired an independent nature of the community municipality and covering any ing hosted by the BitterRodders Car 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 agency failed use the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in prizes. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask public for help with a the Carrie Guarino, “We listened meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling According to also Butler, costs upfront in exchange forphases. aFollowing thosechapter. Club, which into the last six years has 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 forthis a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception has been incredible. This year, they will be giving away compete in FFA includAg Sales placebelieve team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by a high rare opportunity to create a to and wanted to hold true.” She thebe trustees said that voted inofpreviously many it tobybe contingency fee should there an to given away more than $20K local whoever walks through their doors. Stevens that the first phase isJasmin RDOequipment.com about 20Sponsored horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear whether there are other roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stayAndrea on, but please remove lids. by the non-profits 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 comaward. veterans organizations.. The money This program the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care ofisdraft 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 to testing first time they iswent to the the district was levy program run Kamryn by the Universi“There is alevy nationwide litigaraised by the clubYahraus, during this year’s Manager, and Will Ramsey, CPA. pictured Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable toAdminply with the definition of old power duo Myla the owner involves aptitude toAlso idenan expensive proposition. Last will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page 6 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. SeethatGOLD, page vice chair, Jean Butler, it its best chance and to compapublic, did after being for community funds. ty Council of Montana. The reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR H OMEand Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof O .COM tion involving different fundraiser will be donated towardgive istrator ofreported the Environmental habitat including In a they letter to so the Forest first horse thatmeadows, was rescued byESTIMATES 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch founder tify what each individual’s specific Public Works Director Donny Ramer to theAfter Hamilton City construction onis 5 growth found the Bitterroot per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of being significantly voted down the of the veteran’s and memorithe upkeep center, and co-founder ExecStreet is moving alonglithium-ion, well and of schedule. Photo by Nathan Boddy. See PROJECT, 2 Ravalli Paidthe fortrustees byahead Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 14 21 ART, page 4 4college SeeSee SUMMIT, page cepted: alkaline, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas oldpublic. apage 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 Gas stations in the sky Ball Surviving COVID Cowboy 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 Ravalli St.horse project going well Spreading love Local draft rescue thriving Stevi to return park land to county set for Saturday
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
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