W W e W eee W ell S ell SS Sell ell
PRST PRST STDSTD PRST STD PRST STD US POSTAGE US POSTAGE US POSTAGE US POSTAGE PAID PAID PAID PAID PAID STEVENSVILLE MT MT STEVENSVILLE STEVENSVILLE STEVENSVILLE MT MT STEVENSVILLE MT PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT 89 PERMIT PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT
icenses lLicenSeS icenSeS l icenSeS l
OOUTLET utlet StOre STORE OUTLET STORE
Fall or alyOur lyour your a Am mmmunition unition FOr*all mmunitiOn For or all a F your a &H unting N eemmunition ds *LH aunting runting ge selectin oneedS of AR-15 Rifl fle es & & H n eedS & Hunting needS
777-2822 03•4 •H777-2822 w y 9N. 3 N. • • 40344Hwy 93 St4039 evensHWY ville 93 93 NN N Stevensville, 4034 HWY 93 406.777.2822 STEVENSVILLE (406) 777-2822 STEVENSVILLE www.am m oandmorestore.com www.ammoandmorestore.com
www.ammoandmorestore.com www.ammoandmorestore.com
Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B e h ‘T Volume XLI, Number 45 Volume XXXVII, Number 37 29 39 Volume XXXIX, Number 35 30 XXXVII, Number 28 Volume XXXIX, Number 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, May 20, 2026 Wednesday, February 9, 2022 Wednesday, January 26, 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 celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Board of realtors holds local forum Coffee withheld theCandidate Candidate! Eagles in winter Coffee with the Groundbreaking for medical center Bitter Root Humane Association Three Every Mile Community Center open Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville Every Tuesday 7am - 9am at the Frontier Cafe in Stevi
by Victoria Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com by Victoria HowellStephen Kowal shelter. $140,000. for Ravalli County Find out more at could stephenkowal.com Howell by Michael Howell andAccording wells. Irrigation will be Commissioner concerns about the potenherald major by Kristin Kruse Thechanges park
speech, occupa-
a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical ty for failing to do the proper additional impact on people’s Paid by STEPHEN KOWAL FOR RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONER, Box 131 Stevensville, 59870.in similar therapy services – provided by for shares from tial impacts toPOthe roads, to MTother the subdivision review the environmental by John Dowd space filled up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.of It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property taxes. The Ravalli County Eight Mile Creek Company. public safety, to wildlife, and process across the state impacts by handing off its the including therapy The event drew over 220 people the presentation into other rooms and the Sheep Creek Mine proposal. The Hamilton TrapThree Club has Schmiedeke, coming, but the new the decision In addition to thea loan, Bitterroot Health Commissioners 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 Center is up who serves on to take out project was for by the been fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging held aaCommunity groundbreakby Michael Howell anda cut the ribbon atpaid last week’s tional approval last week to the subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper Missouri agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG Oswald heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as well as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the Senior ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments expressed concern Waterkeepers and a group ous specific, documentable, was attended by people from all over Ranch in Florence, gave a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, a resident of the West Fork. He has Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the the project. Center (the official name) trap enthusiasts and hunting Bishop said “It An open house celebration was organization’s 50 years of service, for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents living close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and in school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sothey hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root was started by a bunch of little old by John Dowd ment onFish athat 49.22-acre parcel the Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Horse Creek to the environment such as complex will beThe County and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event co-sponsored specifically effects of heavy da, out-of-area and Missoula, and For as far away as of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, and hone their over applicants. Holton, other Kent moderated, and thewas Hamilton Elks Lodge revolved around officer retention and training. by Johncompete Dowd Humane Association’s (BRHA) new ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by amay the facility open of agricultural land and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abunHelena and even into Idaho. This (RCFWA), on Creek by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Unmetal contamination in rivers. He has ingformerly contains athe large meeting they started Farmers State rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also functions as Mine a District built just of Sheep pieces have been to try to get them the training hosted. Steve Holton, the incumbent sheriff, spoke Last weekend the Bitter animal located on Fairgrounds bunch ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular tripslimited. per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticon water levels both Broadwater County andneed in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, published over 70 papers, according toto they have been because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit supporting the and todonations “provide an atmosphere they the department’s current struggles to retain Candidates were given two minutes for an The Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors Stevensville at the Humane Association participatMile Creek Road and Upper road system. Additionally, and some already having to the Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on the Road in Hamilton. The event served a Kathie Butts, President of the president of the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, and has been his bio on the Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this in 2012 their loan nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan deputies, which he described as “a constant want to be at.” opening and a minute to answer each question. (BVBR) held a candidate forum last Thursday. See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in BitteraofnationWoodchuck Road east the is proposing be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources Conservation aquifer. double It included a ribbon Board, “This organization has system, and a16gorgeous view andapplicant incorpopayments contributors were the Three programs such as The problem, and you can’t blame it alland on pay.” The Ravallisaid, County Sheriff candidate Nick MoAt the county level,to several questions posed The eventpurpose. drew candidates, including six on continuing to al “slumber party” event. The Creek Road and Florence. The land is honor being dedicate a the 100-foot by for 100wereSheriff also expressed about the (DNRC) thereasonable. processnaco andresponded while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothe rated 2014. Mile District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in to come such a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. According to club toFire the way same question, saying, department, Holton said, tries toover hire residents local and 10 statewide. BVBR president Mike candidates Ravalli County expand services. Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. developed by Laura Watson of foot easement for the use and impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thata the the west.including She said the Those payRockus Park the Rapp Fam“I don’t consider toyears beand a training for members, hundredstours of kids havewhole facility, of the started about 50 ago. Iground feel event the “Slumber Pawty,” which “We’re bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was benefit of the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or duty to provide the statutorily The building is now home total cost is ments come ily Foundation. other the original question insinuJohn Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and array of food and hugeagencies,” sense ofasresponsibility to honor opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerFire District and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife on nearby required information lies with ated. Monaco expressed that, though the county care to the patients, to the senior center and the approximateout of park Schmiedeke said there over the years. Along their terroot CEO, drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s those who have come before us and ” members who participated to stay does lose deputies, he would like to open it up ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], theto Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who own programs, the club supports said. 50th birthday. make it as good as he itto can be as awe set said that Marcus the night with the animals, among some out-of-area people, give them leg up Consultants Inc. (PCI). Fire 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 raised over Lois Hedgeby John Dowd the course for here the next 50 years.” The private non-profi t organization Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 in finding a home and to grow the pool of The proposal is for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can The surrounding park conSchmiedeke assessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners andIn 1984, peth, chair the McCormack said that the offinding was fiSaturday rst organized inuse 1972. noon and 12 noon Sun- received applicants. “Folks are having difficulty gle-family residential dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision without tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Montana Hope Project. The Itparticipants is often saidstayed that Mile Community Senior Center board l to r,He Colorganization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the here.” day, overnight hospital board, with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County thatmembers, DNRC. criticized the residency counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the Three is proud that down general contractor donated laclub is utilized by local schools, little locally owned As far as keeping deputies, Monaco wants leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the See SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the shelter animals, wore fundraising campaign to fund the new granddaughter of Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, a walking path,Boy a playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Scouts bookstores are aon waning to help the department “get back to that family See CENTER, page pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then the Covid-19 the BRHA land Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised Bitterroot about run has been four years3 and Triple Creek Ranch, Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-boundhave as Bit-to culture.” business. However, the among in support of the shelter. pandemic hit and construction costs with a 99-year lease. Six years later, others. in Monaco the works, folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon As for deputy training, hopesbut to put Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate The current executive di- deeded celebrating the opening more effort into getting deputies trained. He One Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured fifth from left, leads a gathering of people involved in the of the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the country held the hadthe to public take out a see mortgage to finish in the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been said would the benefit ilton, may exception delays due reflected to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project in 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 Kristin Kruse. the current shelter is located. The the level of service they receive. to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. 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 93on the difficulties inShe new building replaces an old building Holton spoke getting cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is that deputies trained. In his experience, the the trouble by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that ipants each work to raise funds is not so much with the direct cost of training to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to their respective but in the per diem costs. According Holton, City Council shelters. met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling “quality, victim way to combat such the Hamilton Hamilton Downtown facility willtobe more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as been providing Individual community businesses the Ravalli County Sheriff’s Department budget day, March 5They to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. abuse is for people Association. will of training a “medical than just a also donated toprojects. the fundraiser, Hamilton. accessible, for is splitcenter” betweenrather the actual training upcoming city 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 fee pot and a pot for everything involved with 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 including start conyears Shethe led thefees, Saturday. getting officers to Murphy. training, hotel Hospital, which isversation a critical access provide primary, care, urgent care and about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.” Farrenkopf In recent the years, theyShoppe Appreciation by Mayor DomiBoxxe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through food and more. 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 is legally justified you know and co-owners, and been taking steps a lengthy fund fund “We spend the travel budget long before we bythe Victoria Howell me like a ton of of slumber party, and a barbelier, made it into the opening. After the time. However, at the end of the Police Chief Stephen Snavely. open package which doesn’t nation for quality by Staub the national rating to one of them, Every year, theMara Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse spend invest in all theacommuthat training money,” finished Holton. cue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his thepresentation meeting, during the non-agenda items In to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, The local candidates were also asked their ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in period, the Burnt Fork area lately to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, discussion several ofAfter the counState candidates answer questions at lastwho week’s Bitterroot Valley Board of Chief Realtors Candidate Forum. Candidates listed from right to left: David Bedey, Stephan LeuchtCouncil on March 15th, label. following ofand what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conserdoing very well views on housing overall, costs, all spoke about the 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 man, Kathy Love, Michele Binkley, Kim Dailey, Kenneth Allen, Wayne Rusk, Archie Thomas, Greg Overstreet and Evan Schroedel. Photo by John Dowd. Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successdifficulvation in the Bitterroot through on its tax collections and See FORUM, page 4 Many ofthe thepublic thatperiod The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet has aparticipants During comments. Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that over they ful. Joined by the other showing revenues various projects and programs. spent night were will kids. During tional Forest (BNF) The Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message for you: of the the council meeting, Robert “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. toStein“become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One such program is their the slumber party, participants host a public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February is hoff stood toNeyenhuis, address the council. He things saidthat council member Jenny “It the He was home for don’t fool around! the good happen able toWest. uncover to departments say12th. they This are shipand Marisa most while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” this 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 or Overstreet, two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having expenses have only Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. 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 thoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, commondue tactics for and former council member, public at the next Halfway through celebration. projections in large to do it related all. “Wetocouldn’t private practice in hismeeting oxygen level fields conservation, Unlimby Victoria regarding theHowell developited. The meeting called uponsuch Dr.appears Philcouncil opportunity. the customer scammers include by John Dowd Masonto then gotmembers. out and earnedwhich the budget year, the part to jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, ment of a draft foreston the dangers lip Ramsey to speak Incommission. discussion on regular agenda send-from a normal of officer’s in In an early March, a custom-Back was unwittingly claiming county’s performance have yetto torepbe filled. said Luther. The spread sciences. event. Freeman is also thethat chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with hisservice, efforts to spent teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management At the second regular This year, Doug Mason was chohe much of his time of a 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, 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 Planas(CMP). The virtual council and mayor how local tional council members. sen the Corvallis Memorial Day in special operations. He was in meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, “I thought was the issue of re-roofing the city intending to send a package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the funds edthat throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which hebudgeted started 1995. for Now by John Dowd of that as the executive director. of theBOOKS, winners to receive aMara Lynn Luther sitstime in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A realin estate February of 2021. 51 by is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will beto held on See page 18 Parade grand Marshall. Mason has Grenada in should ’83 andannounced Kuwait run. Hein ’94. “We’ll dobeour job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but street shop. According to Hamilton viaI government FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, After it was that he would Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and also He wentSee through damage material.” Zoom. for only than Boddy. been thebelow Legion for Mason looked back Works at his time learned that itAmerican would take just City Public Director, Donny The customer Sometimes was a frequent commenter Gibson retiring, he was asked toinspeak, and was got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, the experiencethey has been Onwith Wednesday, March 27, the who graduated high school in January 27, town clerk Jenelle the Army valley. for 21 years, his organizational and instructions and a link 31 years. He has held several pothe service and spoke on a revechemotherapy and But COVID-19 See COUNTY, page 10 seemed conwill tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, the building is used for snow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce introduced by Jodi Mitchell, his daughat 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 the meeting. Five sitions, including historian, which lation he hadstorage several and days for before 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.” Steinhoff said that he heard plow other maintehosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law andHis the current executive suggested to him that he victims, get involved people all over the valley,” and all of it completed ahas semester of the college thegoing last administration. Inunit Hamilton, was recbutuse wishes he is that now. He also been into Grenada. was from similar meetings audience that she was having good as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee. told the cancer got I potential felt familiar with of so herbad landed in jail,rewarding.” or that a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRa- course director. Al gave a history of the to network. He then got onto the board has been “extremely for members, giving their report, and submitted her transcript that others within the commuadjunct and the commander, which going to be sent in after the over public comment, Crews told ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held in Freeman said the committee hopes to raise trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a fee needs had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was not very mer, it is the original roof, which has in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became Al was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding nity would help her look out he held for 11proof years.of compLeting the280 U.S. Marines were blown up to handle the prosecution 2021. council that those mak$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 comsome significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said they have planned for the upcoming bers during that time that led up to him the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the adviassociated courses. These are According to Mason, “That’s in Lebanon. “It was interesting to for their safety. At least one In addition to the by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany has supposedly been in the state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he said. surgery on October was being water taking on the position. Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition into year. During the meeting, it was also the former YouTube chantwohappens of several criteria appliwhat when you miss a know something big was of the potential victims she opportunity to learn In addition togonna the heating custom leathpicious when now commonly use a getting legitimate seven times already, and each time left will cut down on the bill and haswhile “They need to be replaced. They’re banged address the mayor, not the Greg Overstreet he was 23, 2021 for ostomy boarded, or what “The story of the Bitterroot Valley 55 board members and participated the role. Al will be retiring in August this announced that long-time member, Al meeting.” He said this because the happen, and no one else did,” said cants must meet to be eligible aided was a resident at a local nel they had was no longer about and participate in Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Allen Photo courtesy considering recovered address, but(left. will be ready to taxpayers with the bill for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. Al spoke, Jodi stood to thank legion elected to pick him the day Mason. 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 up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv-For the work ofall more than a dozen local approximately customthehelp package a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked ifset there anyhe had to miss the meeting. Jok-the is him, it was bigger than gle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, He said theCovid-19. organization’s history. According towith him forgrab all his tofrom remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual cowboy balland – which actually Another of these requiretreatment in the boarding to be to be had provided a ride not a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, this er’s Mist, a new business has recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page 21 athing new Facebook page. Hower’s age and $60,000 in or front door when it arrives. the city was doing, or even could ing aside, he is honored to be the what he could imagine, especially Mitchell has been with the Chamoverarching goal for the Chamber has him, what was meant to be a six-month he was only supposed to speak for 10 ments is that each applicant started 11 years ago but couldn’t be held last year to the bank as well as to the colon like,” recalls week’scancer meeting will location. covsession. “It’s public ” their did work the work no charge opened at the journey. same Howevartists have notBittershown in at the particular cash, all of to to the position lasted 12 “They always direct the ever, members of the public Grand Marshall this year. for “just a kid fromcomment. the ber for over 36 years, and spent much always been to keep businesses connectappointment minutes. submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to the pandemic – has been upgraded this The day after that Overstreet. “This er the following agenda er, dissuading worries about the thehad Bitterroot Valley before, so there details of the which was to victim to send it, ‘no signature The mayor saidextensively previous“I just wanted Mason was role inany U.S. the Army root.” He traveled andthe town. who had he tried tothe access years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing the hunting plays “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, was is when realized changeover, it will remain a place of should be a lot of interest in the new being fraudurequired,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associinfantry and joined in 1981 whentransaction. got tohe “see how be the world conly that would answering publicly thank Joan for helpThe Town of recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, of it. “It’s been a good ride forStevensville 29“This numbers have been “trending every she says, pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with I was not art. After months ofdelayed renovations material. There aretime 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe Bank Secrecy Act he was 17. two He was in the ducts itself.” Mason spent in ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town, ” flags abound when seniors are center, for filling in while town attorney Greg Overstreet objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud catered dinner,” said Freeman. Thebanks University COVID-19. taking Covid while hidden behind brown-paper far, and the owners are always entry program, saying asked his mom had Africa, Europe, Central and South ly, it covwas notso manded from of 1970 requires to being on the other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said outcomes ofas the public ofPictured Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened more. “We allOverstreet. kinds seniorseriously to sign for obviously him. America, the Pacific, Korea andlike for patience she worked “I was enough. Staub’s firstwelcoming citizen keep track of withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should some Mason grew up1.said in the valley and more,be staying only for a couple weeks its doors March ofprepared mediums,” said Lottermoser’s Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. Mayorthey’re Steve dinner. Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update said, “I just wanted to see what or a couple months at a time. The new business will feature business partner, Suzette Smith. encountered the commuSee STEVI, page 2 “interesting comments” from Greg Overstreet talks about his recent brush with death due to Overstreet. “Itformer hit Jim Crews, mayor bank to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Street in Hamilton. See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page was on custom the otherleatherwork side of the mounHe remembered on a displayed by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite byPhoto Karen Some such cirnity.See Staub is Covid. by Victoria Howell. being See SCAMMERS, page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 tains.” Photo by Nathan Boddy. Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her were previous participants in the See MASON, page 9 Doug Mason in his Corvallis American Legion Post #91 honor guard uniform, bugling. Photo courtesy Doug Mason. thegrounded Army for four years, County Commissioners apwork is in the Sheridan-style barns, formercowboys, gallery, but the business plan by In John Dowd famous artists with a 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 with the Ravalli County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith A Hamilton business,In that 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 the ing and marketing one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the the commissioners stated Protection Agency. The letter National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a video designed to her leatherwork, isaround also RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working toinan enand theto contest is still looking agricultural leadership competito the level and secured invitaby Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the southand portion was purchased want tostate change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 1st, 4:30 1889, According Hamilton Police Depart- sale, to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating thatthe “Ravalli objects contains recommendations manage timber tobytions provide Plan. courage a love ofPolice artthrough in young people participants. Participants must in Butts, their yearlong effortCounty to tions compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone some big andfor Last year, the previous Exit Realty Kathy and north by qualify out of to the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton officers were ment Chief of Police, Steve Snavely, by Sarah Glass horses burros on the nation’s SeePoppy. ART, page 6 ior. impacts ain variety of pieces from furniture to the valley. To do this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th for the next level of competition at the events. forest products and jobs; and to unmitigated to concerning the Draft SEIS for A new record of decision changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. When asked how this change will involved in a shooting with if a robbery there will behorses a coroner’sFor inquest public lands. Because wild the 2026 adoption The deadline closed on by Victoria Howell it would be possible The DUI Task Force approved the creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a county-wide contest, showgrades. 95th State FFA Convention in Billings 2023-24 district championships by Victoria Howell year, the facility took in 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 the franchise has split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect at for the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCIprotectwill present their findings. thewhen Gold Butterfly. Concernwas issued on 17, retain oldhas growth status all county How should conservation and burros are federally cycle, Bischof been hosting toart, put envelopes onDecember January 18, filing objecby Victoria his property which would in effect with theinhighway, whichowned/maintained is aastate addressed the private land was Mischief$240,000 Room May and commissioners all her work isHowell done her own two casing the participant’s love of Corvallis and Florence schools inthe April. for Stevensville include: and spent every penny. venville’s main drag, beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. Fortunately, rights that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Exit Realty is still the Lendman said that it will not change and wildlife management look in ed and lack natural predators, a series of adoption events at venience Store. Theby engagement took Snavely stated that an inquest is also ing the scope of the analysis treatment units. According to roads from heavy equipment 2021 accompanied by a Draft all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshutbeen off access to Stevensville River highway, because now you’re goingoff to on it. sold toproject a new owner and Fish, Wildlife signed The involved the creation of tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have the most 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 relation to public lands managed the BLM must manage populathe Hamilton Training Facility 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 kopf, director put valentine cards The activities Stevensville Town CounPark, ain 20-acre parkare onwelcome the east bank have two accesses for trucksatrucks, pulling and Parks got involved. The once-priand logging mostly, the letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding ATR Smart Procedures is a softschools in the valley to ville’s agricultural education program Casland, 1st place individual with tal Environmental Statement by theSapphire Bureau ofLutheran Land Managetion growthchise toofficer ensure healthy since The final event will Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up. Just get up there and play.” current owner of the north valley half was split between theApril. north ing to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot executive director of 1 Horse volunteer organization. But Shinn said 12 reportedly charged at the responding involved shooting situations. See EXIT, page at them. really cil was split on whether to accept just to the north of the private piece of boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs to theKyra state where someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s Forest-wide about 90% of the proposed but not limited to, theitimpacts cific forest plan amendment ware design company, now inFarrenkopf participate. Some the schools even learn about a wide range ofcompartments agriculteam members Quinn Rahl, Desment (BLM)? Matt Bischof, alsobased wild horses and burros thrive onof tremendous take place on May 23 between (Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these bands, this will officer. “We have seen supcosts about $200 per month to feed At A Time Draft Horse Rescue Homes inHowever, Hamilton, is moving liked the idea. He asked a small piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per hour - there is aflask developed fishing access site. drugs orthe hide aand small of whiskey. The aim was Hamilton. after to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. known as “Mustang Mike,” at healthy public rangelands. To ac9 a.m. and 4 p.m. It includes a Management Wildlife Reto Willow Creek Road. Due to defining old-growth stantreatment areas are within an Victor. On April 13, the thesebe“gentle their Ifirst time, and for others that Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate all Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotitem a nice giants.” there are asking the community students schools Stevensville bridge, an that was atthis and negotiated the donation of the are going to Saturday, be accidents there.” “But think it’sThen [the piece the to provide a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, the organization owners lum. school day under the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn Hackthe Hamilton Training Facility at complish mission, the BLM “Next Steps Clinic” where he Neely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is resource and financial limitasource Objective to “Maintain area designated for insect and dards. Some objections to the life-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and boost lastForest week when she was to send his residents a and daycares to make National 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 736 Alvista Loop, says hein doesn’t regularly herd size and will coach new and potential and team have fallen loveby with the monitors According to theofcontest orgaengaging instruction ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team the Last year the envelopes. the music. This spring festival always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuespecially proud this during atreatment time old-growth habitat disease because of tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this Valenspecial envelopes and presented with a check for $7500 other associated costs to rehabilitate meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use the land is to the town. “I city to have, whether or not you put their substance use from casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres know the right solution. Someof thehealth, land health,last vegetation owners on how to helplopes their state and the people. One ways nizers, yearhistory there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor 18 Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American 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, farmers who share grazing rights quality and water availability animals acclimate to their new 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. had to be emptied more really popular, and from all over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even from his wounds andawas pronounced seeing lowest support for law en- covers About four years Then people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch most can be driven or there, with wild horses and burros con- resident. and, when necessary, removes lives. The instruction the necessary support viable populations ing trees. They claim the area will having tothe dowith with theparticipation been through their art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. 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 sideanimals said she had apotenreal with old 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 sider them species. Othfrom the range to problem howin tothe bridle the horses, liftminutes ridden, and some just become “pasture located ininvasive Hamilton. Part of contest theexcess idea came from a similar art from all the high schools valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the logging of old growth, new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a the 55,000 acre area ofto the The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office isenveapiece great place betheir awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after to Farrenkopf to see tines to fillbalance.” the of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated onand theleadership condition looking long term, if youDUI, haveKuntz, prop-10 See VALENTINES, page 10 That that ers think animals are iconic achieve feet safely load them pets.” selection for awarding that gift See page they held in Houston, Texas right af- impacts These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career developett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret first to be created in the last “Itand really opened the beetle, in 2020. first was to the drawing board. by John Down rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial toIn wildlife and tobank beetle, Douglas-fir bark hour. Ezzell on bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with the departTucked away onand Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their heads forest in the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli County for use as a roads converge, the is incrediit would be maintained and utilized erty on the west of the river, then of the western plains that For the last several years, into a trailer. After the final 1 Horse At A Time was established was online voting and according ter the events of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I ment events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, and 50 years. To do this, they will door to some interesting permanent and asked for $9.5 One of the problems, acOne band that continues to return According to Conroy, the festival’s issued a press release that detailed ment, Snavely noted there have only the Draft SEIS limits the scope dwarf mistletoe and western the project is complete. Ravalli Willow Creek Road. together to decide what was needed just to the north of Fort Owen State they should not be disturbed. All Bischof has shared his home May event, people interested in potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains eastwanted of Corvallis. ATR to find atry way to astonished, last toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea cording to Butler, was, “we as“Hopefully, the third to was ask the community conversations people,” million, which Butler said is the Band, visiting purpose isits “toenvironmental promote and encourevent and investigation. However, been three these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a Bitterroot or not needed in theyear, community. They with Bischof knows, hetenure says, isof that inneed Hamilton with hundreds of thepart adoption process can meet County objects to in shifting of conseNational Forest spruce budworm damage. During the former issues… It isof the fastest of the years. idate highway property into the Town The original proposal was The next glass recycling event in button, cell phone batteries (out of feature the beauty of the state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen said Butter, speaking about was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what the is the charm,” commented to pass a levy, which BVCC Germany where she grew up around Simmerman, 1 Horse At A Time from Nashville. They will be joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information is available at However, these are always a danger of nonprofit organization that a came up with the concept of career the policies enacted bythe theowner BLMoffers horses and burros as a contractBischof by appointment. At the mayor Jim Crews, of land channel and the deepest part of the Vickie Motley, park board memof Stevensville. I think It’s something quences analysis to vegetation, Although in general financial burden of the project officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info so to give back to the community, and “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett withdrawn in August of 2020 Bitterroot Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Community horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, mean many wild mustangs and ed adoption center for the BLM time of his interview on May center, which is were modeled after a that highly free career training program side targetat the river ononce the northeast had channel. Ifto you toart develop ber, said that nothing had been done RDO Equipment Co. the pileated woodpecker and agreement with the proposed to Ravalli County and believe project is designed improve 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 unsure ofThe exactly how theshe College was.” However, there College (BVCC) trustee and without success. campaign, whichout helped the soula, and more. event is abut all share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot is especially passionate about getters. burros have the opportunity to access and its partners. Nearly half of 9, 12 horses remained of a Idaho The officer is currently on leave neither the nor any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization in Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I officer, would also see aother problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 end of the Ravalli Fairnow you canRunning save up to bring them contest was the way toShe go. According come in“Crosspurpose.” all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road The vote will take place to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to have been a major secretary, Sue Smith. was it isCounty contrary to law pine marten. forest resilience to natural project, the Ravalli County single-microphone type event, with When asked why he loves bluegrass, integrate with humans find his own personal horses are from were total of 33. Another shipment during this investigation, as is stanmunity members, harmed during horses. She and her husband, a That check followed in the wake ages 18 and older in and both Ravalli and called Itorganization offers similar and Alliance for the Wild grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will beinsects the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer speaking about the organizaon May– 7, via a mail-in ballot. public onarrive the topic of creating under that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 loving homes, and he been the mustang wild horse – herds horses may later this single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. services, according toof Stevens. Missoula Counties. In addition to military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inhas November See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming 8th. gallon. Jars and bottles that coning director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying events public desired an independent nature of the community tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. a part of the process in several obtained through the governsummer, he said. free training, Summit offers six-month offered species are listed in Forest officials also received and disease;The reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20fromcareer Tractor Supply. 406-549-4171 agency failed to the best tained or food be recycled Cardboard be lead coordinator, Tamar Hafer, the ATR donates thousands in“My prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will states forpublic nearly 15use years now. adoption sysjob is two things,” said drinks Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling According to also Butler, ask the for help with a ment-regulated mentoring, support and friendship to is broken down into three phases. acre available farm which Shinn saidteam canitsupport That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip thefor Forest Plan, but county owned and maintained ment sources in Willow for a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels apeople fee. available science in managing reception hastobeen This year, they will be giving away compete in FFA includ2nd place led by According BLM literature, tem. Bischof’s son competes in Bischof, “I try to provide the Presenting a the check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by aStrobel rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. and wanted to hold true.” She the trustees said that this voted inofpreviously high Ag Sales many believe itistonot be Stevens stated that the first phase isJasmin whoever walks through their RDOequipment.com about 20 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 “theWhen Wild Free-Roaming Horses junior rodeo with a mustang. His public atoplace to Clark, adopt these stay on,AA but please remove lids. Sponsored by the non-profits speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individual levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreach community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l r: Levi CPA, Andrea Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comThis program isdraft the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care ofof horses is “All and Burros Act 1971 daughter has aalter mustang, and his horses from.” The trainer then Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and in the Bitterroot, Lander said, ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. InBischof addition to Stevensville, with team members Kamryn Jones, Office ofwith the Regional Adminbull habitat; restore Road. terroot. According toentrusts trustee worked to the levy to testing time they went to the the district was tohe levy program run by Wild the UniversiMatt stands Sunny, a horse adopted last year through the BLM Horse and Manager, and Will Ramsey, CPA.first pictured is 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 the BLM with the responsibilminiature horse “guardian” was gestured to the tan horse he 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. See GOLD, page 5 vice chair, Jean Butler, this give it its best chance and to public, they did so after being for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality is Burro Program. Bischof works as a contractor for the BLM and its partners to find wild horses and •FREE ESTIMATES IN THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Y OUR H OME I MPROVEMENT C O . COM istrator of the Environmental In a letter to the Forest habitat including meadows, firsttify horse thateach was rescued by 1 Horse At A Time. Photo by Victoria Howell. the Owen Ranch and founder ofa wild what individual’s specific growth found in the Bitterroot ity toFort manage and protect wild once burro, now named per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, See OPEN RANGE, page 10 being significantly voted down would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of burros caring homes. Photo by Sarah Glass. the center, and co-founder and ExecPaid for by Brad Davis, P.O. Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page 21 ART, page 44 SeeSee SUMMIT, page
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Hearts full ofrevisit love Stevi to refinancing bonds Doug Mason is Grand Marshal 2026
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 Open range to open hearts: wild horses, burros find new homes 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
VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN THE
SOUTHGATE To MALL Protect our Heritage 493-0051