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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume XLI, Number Number 17 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, November 5, 2025 Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 2022 Wednesday, January 13, 2024 Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2,9, April26, 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Orchard connects with schools Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical 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 John Dowd
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. public safety, and across the impacts byincluding handing its the therapy theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. over 220 people The Trap Club has coming, but the new Three Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to theaoff loan, Bitterroot Health Last Thursday, Swanson’s Or- Eight Commissioners gave condiAccording toonthewere prelimito the rural character of the is a founder was alsoofdiscussed. In that mandated duties to“It other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people lined up out the door. Ramsey the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. was Mile Community Center is up who serves to take out a project was paid for by been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging chard Corvallis hosted a Farm to held a in groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional approval last week to plat theOswald subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as wellMissouri as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab School event meant to bring educaceremony, said concerning the Senior ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments concern group ous specific, documentable, Ranch in Florence, a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, expressed a resident of the Waterkeepers West Fork. Heand has was attended by(the people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the thea project. Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said “It tion administrators and school food organization’s 50 years of service, An open house celebration was for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and inliving school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sotheyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd workers closer to local produce. ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the such as complex will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and away as of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, compete and hone their ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by amay Humane Association’s (BRHA) new The event was organized by Ravalli the facility open of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abun(RCFWA), on the Sheep Creek Mine by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Unmetal contamination in rivers. He has Helena and even into Idaho. This ing contains a large meeting they started Farmers State rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also built just of functions as a Last weekend the Bitter animal shelter located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” County Development near the intersection ofMark Eight ular tripslimited. per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County and been in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conserroom, aEconomic warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit the Stevensville at thesupporting Humane Association participatMile and Upper road system. Additionally, having the Department of Natural analyze the impacts on the RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Butts, President of the Authority food and farm programs president ofRoad the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, andand hassome been alreadyhis bio ontothe Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this ain 2012 their loan Kathieto nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai 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. It included a ribbon system, and a gorgeous view andapplicant incorpo- is proposing to payments contributors were the Three manager Grace Nichols. According programs such as The on continuing to al “slumber party” event. The Creek Road and Florence. The land is honor being dedicate a 100-foot by 100were also expressed about the (DNRC) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothe[to rated Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in 2014. a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. According to club to Nichols, “Personal connection 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 that the the west. She said the Those payRock Park and the Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel aFamfacility, including tours of the whole local food and wherePawty,” it comes from] event the “Slumber which “We’rethe 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 statutorily The building is now home total cost is ments come ily Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in that program building, and an array of food and huge sense of responsibility to honor just means so much, both to people opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerFire District and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife on nearby required information lies with care to the patients, to the senior center and the approximateout of park Schmiedeke said there over the years. Along with their terroot Health CEO, those who have come before us and ” drink in honor of the organization’s buying and people selling.” 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 it as were many who own programs, the club supports said. make good as he itvolunteers can be as we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus According to her, and the manathe night with the animals, among 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 Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization the course for the nextLois 50 years.” gers at the orchard, thesingoal of Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12theSchmiedeke proposal ispark for The 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 peth, chair ofwithout the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon Sunevent was to introduce school food gle-family residential use received dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Montana Hope Project. The It is often said that Three Mile Community Senior Center board members, l to r, Colorganization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, service directors, early childhood with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County that DNRC. He criticized the counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the is proud that general contractor donated laclub islocally utilized by local schools, little owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the animals, fundraisingSee campaign to fund the new granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave educators and Refuge, university dining said this project courts, ashelter walking a wore playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Boy Scouts bookstores are aon waning 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 about have to run services toHowever, local apples. been has been four years3 and Triple Creek Ranch, among Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the “It’s in support of the shelter. with a 99-year lease. Six years later, pandemic hit and construction super positive,” said Nichols. Their others. in the works, costs but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The executive hope is current to help both localdiproducers, 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 the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the country held the had to take out a mortgage to finish the land tohealth the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been and youth across the state, ilton, may take exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health building project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on Trap the property that had housed the Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members line up for a shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The but especially inwere the Bitterroot Valto this, as they reSee TRAP, 5 See SHELTER, page hour period. The event is apage fundpandemic. She said2 shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being ley and surrounding areas. Howeraiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowd Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the ver, “trust key,”model said Nichols. ipants eachiswork to raise funds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important Nicholsto added that this was a Food/ donate 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 Agriculture development program day, Marchcommunity 5They to discuss several there was not much knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at andthey fraud in the past. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just a Apples getting washed quality tested, floating in water, at Swanson’s Orchard in Corvallis. Photo by John Dowd. also donated to the fundraiser, Hamilton. accessible, ORCHARD, on page upcoming city projects. at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to ship901 S.3 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask questions also beSee celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said that Marcus Daly for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of care” ping depot for FedEx, The new 12-acre campus will and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. isversation a critical access provide primary, care, urgent care and Hospital, which about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.” Farrenkopf In recent years, they Appreciation by Mayor Domithe Boxxe Shoppe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the Farrenkopf istaking legally justified you know co-owners, and been steps a lengthy fundand fund by Victoria Howell me like a ton of of the slumber party, and a barbelier,to made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After Chiefthe time. Snavely. However, at the end of the Stephen open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating one of them, Every the Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his thepresentation meeting,toduring the non-agenda items In the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in the Burnt area to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion thelately counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conseroverall, doing very well visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. by Victoria Howell are being recruited. There will also be he said, with clinics in to Covid, Greg sent home from retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successvation inofthe Bitterroot through on its tax collections Many the participants that by John Dowd Farrenkopf said that the and The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe a other During the public period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that over they ful. Joined by showing revenues various projects and programs. spent night were will kids. During go all out and create tional Forest (BNF) The Cowboy Ballparticipants at the 50% Ravalli County 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 coached owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One such program is their the party, participants Hamilton City elaborate decoration hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will bemassively held February This is hoff stood toNeyenhuis, address the council. He things saidthat council member Jenny “It the He was home forAccording to don’t around! the good happen able toWest. uncover to departments say12th. they are shipand Marisa most while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” Administration, this year’s Ha- event set-ups. “Skeletons crawling on thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having expenses have only or Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at theHalloween shelter. Photo by John Dowd. awards three winners who can milton Homes dethe roofs, lighting everywhere, 30th from 6 to 8 p.m. See PETS, page 11 hosted byan the Ravallithem Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing his experiof the paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows interest inCounty pursuing corating contest was another cauldrons and smoke machines todisplay share Association information Wildlife and Troutence Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, common tactics for and former council member, public at the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections due in large to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, by Victoria Howell great success. Hamilton Mayor and more,”scammers he said. “It’s just all regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer include the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies Rodand Freeman is very 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 toDominic 51, Farrenkopf elaborate.” ment of a draft forest lip Ramsey toThe speak on the dangers In discussion agenda send-from a normal of In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly claiming performance that have yetto torepbe filled. said Luther. spread sciences. event. Freeman is also“It the chair the Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addi- Hamilton Citycounty’s Deputy Clerk really isof a fun community Climbing Management the second regular of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, theShoppe first to be brought er came to the Boxxe ing to aforward scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one Committee, and theactivity vice chair of the Fair colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Fleming Cynthia spoke about people canSecurity rallyBoard, around,” Plan (CMP). The virtual“I thought counciltoand mayor howoflocal tional council members. meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to was the issue re-roofing the city intending send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. Now by John Dowd of that as the executive director. of the winners to receive a Mara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo by John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate for February of 2021. that 51 is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo the event. said Fleming. She explained that meeting will betoheld on See BOOKS, page 18 should run. He that “We’ll dobeour job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but street shop. According to Hamilton viaI government FedEx. After Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the it was announced he would check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and 11 also He went through damage material.” Zoom. See below for The contest has been this year they only allowed than Boddy. learned that it would only take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer Sometimes they was a frequent commenter Gibson got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, the experience has been On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who high in January 27, town Jenelle the Army for 21 years, his organizational and instructions and aclerk linkschool growing in popularity everyvalley. entries. They also limited partichemotherapy and But COVID-19 See COUNTY, page 10 seemed con-introduced will tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Fivethat year, and according to Farcipants to new entries because fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other maintesuggested to him that he victims, peoplethey all over the and all that of it hosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law and the executive completed a she semester of college the last administration. In currentfrom Hamilton, was recbut wishes similar meetings renkopf, aget lotinvolved more people have sovalley,” many homes audience that was having good use as are chair oflanded the Cowboy Ball committee. told that the cancer got I potential felt familiar with of so herbadHe in jail, or that a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRa- course to network. then got onto the board has been “extremely rewarding.” for members, giving their report, director. Al gave a history of the and submitted her transcript that others within the commupublic Crews told roof, ognized for in (virtual) were held in meetalso always asking where they want to participate. a lot Freeman said the committee to trouble streaming the the process, decade with has been won,hopes but a“It’s feeraise needs had been eradicated. I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was notwhat very comment, mer,and it isspoke the original which hasstepping in like the early 90s,nity andwould in 2012 he her became the executive director until reviewing 2023 andof talking about ber, about important memproviding proof compLeting help look out Al was 2021. can find the houses. to go around to all the houses,” the council that those makto handle the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rodeo and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsomeduring significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the advithey have planned for the upcoming bers that time that led up to him associated courses. These are for their safety. At leastreone Inhas addition to the been in the The contest allows said Fleming. “It’s an incredible by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he said. surgery on YouTube October was being water Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition into year. During the meeting, it was also taking on the position. the former chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn and eachpicious sidents in the community amount of work.” These decisiIn addition to the the heating custom leathwhen has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, time left will cut down on bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged address the mayor, not the Greg Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided whatand “The story of the Bitterroot Valley 55boarded, board members participated the role. Alalso will be retiring inaAugust this announced that long-time member, Al cants must meet tolonger be eligible was a resident at local nel they had was no about and participate to enter their homesrecognition in athe ons gave others chance to Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards toAfter Rose Allen Photo courtesy considering recovered address, but(left. will be ready to taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. Al spoke, Jodi stood to thank Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had set up contest, striving to have the win. Stevensville Main Street business, Rivthe work of more than a dozen local the customapproximately grab the package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked ifrequirethere was anygle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, He said theCovid-19. organization’s According towith him for cowboy all“It hiswas help and to remind him back from the the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual ball – which actually Another of thesethis treatment boarding to history. be had be provided a ride isage notand a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, besttodecorated house for really a lot fun,” er’s Mist, ain new business haseven recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page 21$60,000 athing new Facebook page. Hower’scould in was meant or front door when it of arrives. the city was doing, or overarching goal for the Chamber has him, what to be a six-month he was only supposed to speak for 10 Mitchell has been with the Chamments is that each applicant started 11 years ago but couldn’t be held last year to the bank as well as to the colon cancer journey. like,” recalls week’s meeting covThe city also does said“They Farrenkopf. drives session. “It’s public ” their did work the work opened at the same Howevartists havecomment. not shown in at no charge the particular all of to toHalloween. always He direct the the ever, members ofwill thelocation. public always been to keep businesses connect-cash, appointment the position lasted 12 minutes. ber for over 36 that years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to the pandemic – has been upgraded this The day after Overstreet. “This er the following agenda a Christmas home decorating bus every year in which he and er, dissuading any worries about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there details thethehad which was to victim tothat send it,membership ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment stated the cussing thewas “It’s common sense to me,” Jodithe year. topics: surgery, isfrauduwhen realized contest, which sparked the Hamilton City Council memchangeover, itrole willhunting remain a place of should be a lot of interest in the new transaction. being required,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associly that he would be answering publicly thank Joanoffor help-beenshe The Town offor Stevensville recognized attorney Joan Mell, it. “It’s a good ride numbers have been “trending every says, pointing out red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first bers year we’ve ever done aup idea to 29 do“This onethat for and others ride inAct tofully see all diagnosed with I was notoriginal art. After two months of renovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe Bank Secrecy ation. Photo courtesy Upchurch. said” Al. “I’mabound looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw thecouncil highestwill See RCFW, page 3questions from the public. ing me and helpingyears,” the town, flags when seniors are center, for filling in while town attorney Greg Overstreet objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. The University Halloween. They have held the the homes. Then, the COVID-19. taking Covid while hidden behind brown-paper covso far, and the owners are always ly, it was not manded from of 1970 requires banks to being on the other and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person also said that they said outcomes ofas the public Christmas contest since 2021. vote on categories, ofPictured Montana Catering Service provide theincluhad side Covid-19. with Mell are, lseveral towill Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened more. “We like allOverstreet. kinds seniorseriously for patience she worked “I was obviously enough. Staub’sCrews firstwelcoming citizen keep track ofr, withdrawals of 5 he added, specifically referring to the See Spooktacular, CHAMBER, page isAccording 80 years old, and all of a was ding Most conversations should beofprepared forsaid some to Fleming, this Most its doors March 1.said mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. Mayorthey’re Steve Gibson, council coming into the members Cindy Brown and The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update Hamilton Mayorbusiness Dominic Farrenkopf with“interesting the Grand Prize winner, Vanessa Godard and her son attothe 109 Cottonwood the third year for the HalloweThe new feature Suzette Smith. encountered commuSee page 2 sudden comments” from Greg Overstreet talksbusiness about hispartner, recent brush with death dueSTEVI, Overstreet. “Itformer hit will Jim Crews, mayor bank to withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. Photo by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALLpage page 4 SURVIVING, 5 Court. courtesy City ofCovid. Hamilton. enpage contest. See See HALLOWEEN, by Michael Howell Howell. onsitePhoto custom leatherwork byPhoto Karen such cirStaub is by VictoriaSome Howell. SCAMMERS, page 2 4 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 be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. SEIS for record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved the creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, show95th State FFA the Convention inhas Billings 2023-24 district championships by 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 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 The Bitterroot community rallying behind toisart, put envelopes ona January 18,participant’s for filing 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 two casing the loveown of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: and spent every penny. venville’s beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. rights thatmain pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. ThebyFortunately, engagement took Snavely stated that an inquest is also child with a rare genetic disorder that impacts her roads heavy theowner scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by most a drag, Draft treatment units. According to Exit all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re goingequipment sold toproject aing new Fish, Wildlife signed off on it. The involved creation of tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the active, though all Over 200 students in StevensAgronomy led by Sidney McJasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of heart, speech, spine, and internal systems. Twelveput 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 ATRowner Smart Procedures is a softschools ininvolved the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofnorth 1 of Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer shooting See EXIT, page year-old Diane Paxson will bechise getting atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether toCorvallis accept just toreally the north of the private piece oftheing boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toShinn theKyra state compartments where someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s Forest-wide but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment about 90% of proposed ware design company, now based in participate. Some of the schools even learn about a wide range of agriculteam members Quinn Rahl, Des(Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these bands, this will officer. “We have seen tremendous supAtsmall A Time Draft Horse Rescue it costs about $200 per month to feed surgery oninher spine in the coming days. Loved onesCrews contacted the county Homes Hamilton, is liked the idea. He asked a piece of park land near the property. 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 help old-growth stantreatment withinOn anSaturday, Victor. April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others The attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility inofficers Corvallis, gotitem a nice these giants.” there are have organized GoFundMe fundraisers the asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an that was attoschools and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the to provide a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, themeasures organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is the source Objective to “Maintain dards. Some objections to the area designated for insect and resource and financial limitalife-saving to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was family with medical expenses and lodging, as they 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 in loveby with the Accordingproud tolopes. theofcontest orga-a time engaging ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team Last year the the music. This spring festival“Iother always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuespecially this during old-growth habitat disease treatment because ofinstruction tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received will have to live in Salt Lake City for two months little love this special envelopes and associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck forof$7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history that he believes is while Diane iscounty. undergoing thedecorate surgery. tine’s Day. them for each revert to the 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 from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even from his wounds and was pronounced seeing lowest law en- had According tolocated the GoFundMe site, Diane has faced About four years resident. Then people piece, which 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, the necessary support viable populations having tothe 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 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. life with extraordinary courage. She was life-flighted 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, new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre area ofto the The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after to Children’s Hospital immediately after birth due to tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 That developpets.” selection forHouston, awarding that gift See DUI, page 10 they held in Texas right af- impacts These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, by John Down first to be created in the last “Itheads really opened the beetle, in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial toIn wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away onCounty Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their aforest rare genetic disorder that affects her spine, in the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli for use as a heart, roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west ofestablished the river,and then was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the events of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, 50 years. To doRoad. this, theynoted will door tomistletoe some permanent and for $9.5According One the problems, acOne band that to asked return toof Conroy, the the festival’s issued a of press release that detailed ment, Snavely there have only interesting thecontinues project is complete. Ravalli the Draft SEIS limits scope Willow dwarf and just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed speech, and internal systems. Despite theCreek many difpotential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third need to was ask the community conversations withispeople,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asthe Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourevent and investigation. However, been three of these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a or not needed in the community. They ficult challenges she’s faced, Diane continues to light 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 theorganization beauty of the andto participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” pass levy, which BVCC said speaking about was exorbitant andin occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1commented Horse A Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They beevent joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information isstate available at amuch However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit that offers ahumor, came up with the concept of Although career up every room she enters with resilience, mayor Jim Crews, the At owner ofher land channel and the deepest part of the of Vickie Motley, parkwill board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info so to give back to the community, and “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett withdrawn in August of 2020 Bitterroot Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Community horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training targetwhich is were modeled after a that highly ber, said that nothing had been done and joy. Every day isprogram a new test ofhad strengthcenter, for her, at the river ononce the northeast side 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 soula, Idaho and more. event is abut all share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot is especially passionate about getters. The officer is currently on leave neither the norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, yet she meets each one with the same spirit attempted to shut off river on bright for fishing, I officer, would also see aother problem the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 end of the Ravalli Fairnow you canRunning save up to bring them contest was the way toShe go. According come in“Crosspurpose.” all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road secretary, Sue Smith. was Theresilience vote will take place were to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to have been a major pine marten. project, the Ravalli County it isCounty contrary to law forest to natural single-microphone type event, with When asked why he loves bluegrass, during this investigation, as iswake stanmunity members, harmed during That check followed inRavalli the horses. She and her husband, a ages 18 and older inthat both and called Itorganization offers similar Alliance for the Wild and determination inspire everyone around her. grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer speaking about the May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire,beinsects Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard aThroughout $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember her life, Diane has undergone 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 free training, Summit six-month offered multiple surgeries, each one aoffers difficult hurdleThe that officials also received species are listed in and disease; reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks orForest fromcareer Tractor Supply. relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20406-549-4171 agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask foruse help with a the Carrie Guarino, listened Following thosechapter. meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling According to also Butler, mentoring, support and friendship to sources isNow, broken down into three she has public overcome with incredible bravery. as“We 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 This year, they will be away compete in FFA includAg Sales placebelieve team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by a high rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. wanted to hold true.” She thephase trustees said that voted inofpreviously many it tobybe whoever walks through their Stevens that thegiving first isJasmin she grows, her severe scoliosis hasand reached a point 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 comThis program the brainchild of “personal development,” which where itcare must be surgically corrected. Thecalled curvature taking ofis draft horses 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 to trustee worked to alter the levy to testing time they iswent to the the district was levy program run Kamryn by the UniversiManager, and Will Ramsey, CPA.first pictured Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable toAdminply with the definition of old power duo Myla Yahraus, the owner involves aptitude toAlso idenof her spine causes daily pain and discomfort, afan expensive proposition. Last will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page them have had some sort of Montana winners, which take the form of grant four of the twelve chapters are in the Teigen Hackett, and Charlie Leonard. See GOLD, pageis 65 vice chair, Jean Butler, it its best chance to byESTIMATES public, did after being for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR Hof OME Ithis MPROVEMENT C O .COM istrator of the Environmental habitat including In a they letter to so the Forest first horse thatmeadows, wasand rescued 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch and founder of tify what each individual’s specific fecting her quality life, and thisgive upcoming surgery growth found the Bitterroot comfortably. help-the-paxson-family-through-dianes-journey-toper pound. Thebeing following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of significantly voted down the center, andchance co-founder and offers the best for her toExeclive and move more Paidthe fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 14 21 ART, 4 4college ToSee donate, gopage to: https://www.gofundme.com/f/ See SUMMIT, page healing cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas oldpublic. a community district twice, wentP.O. back
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan
2025 Hamilton Halloween homes scheduled Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting
New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task
Force, MAPS to partner on Art contest seeks Stevi FFA chapter Hamilton officers special video more participation
sweeps district North valley Exit Realty has a new face fire on suspect Bluegrass Festival Gold Butterfly project draws some objections Spreading love horse Local draft rescue thriving Stevi to return park land to county set for Saturday Funds being raised for Corvallis girl
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
Davis for Senate Dist. #44
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