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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume XL, Number Number 1 35 20 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 2022 Wednesday, November 27, 2024 Wednesday, January 13, Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2,9, April June26, 10, 17,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Coffee with the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking held for medical center SAFE shelter expansion Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Center open Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Making Mine talk draws hundreds celebratesbecomes new shelter, 50th anniversary project realit y Shelter hosts slumberholiday ‘Pawty’ by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Michael Howell by Kristin Kruse
Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville shelter.Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com $140,000.
speech, occupa-
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 TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to theaoff loan, Bitterroot Health 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 held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to theOswald subdivision area. A substantial number of 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 plat the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the Senior by John Dowd Several staff had to expressed relocate their offices into the baseing 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, 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 ment of Hamilton Hall, impacts in the old depart- living close to organization’s 50 years of service, An open house celebration was for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to the City potential topolice of residents and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could do one about with the a Ph.D in microbiology and in school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She said western they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, soAfter over a year of waiting, the Supports of Abuse ment, while the expansion project happened. theyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells 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 Free Environments (SAFE) held new their open house and During the opening remarks prior to cutting the ribladies in 1972 and it’s still run by amay Humane Association’s (BRHA) 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 club also functions as a built just north of ribbon cutting last Friday. The $2ular million building bon, Hamilton Mayor Dominic – dressed Last weekend the Bitter animal located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight tripslimited. per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of static waterFarrenkopf levels both Broadwater County and been in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, published over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit supporting the Stevensville at the expansion took nearly 13 months to complete, as the in a turkey costume for holiday fundraising – Department said, “I Humane Association participatMile and Upper road system. Additionally, having the of Natural analyze the impacts on the RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Butts, President of the president ofRoad the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, 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 project officially broke in September of 2023. ed for the first time in Bitteraground See SAFE, page and 15 Conservation Woodchuck Road east ofnationthe be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has double purpose. included system, and a gorgeous view a ribbon andapplicant incorpo- is proposing to payments contributors were the Three programs such as It The on continuing to al “slumber party” event. The Creek Road and Florence. TheAccording land is honor being a 100-foot by 100were also expressed about the (DNRC) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothededicate rated Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in 2014. a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. to club expand Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. including developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thataFamthe the west. She said the for the use and Those payRock Park and theservices. Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel facility, tours of the event the “Slumber Pawty,” whichbenefit “We’rethe bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was of is the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or sense duty to provide statutorily The building isarray now home total cost ments come ily of Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and of food and huge responsibility to honor 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 their terroot CEO, those who have come before us and ” drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s members who participated to stay by Sarah 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 areGlass were many who own programs, the club supports said. make it as good as he itvolunteers can be as we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, amongFire Consultants Inc. (PCI). District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect in its imthat serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has over Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization courseseason for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 Schmiedeke Thethe holiday family, festivproposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can TheThe surrounding conassessed, TMCSC means 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 Sunities, and charity drives. Charitable nongle-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 TheItMontana Hopethat Project. The is often said Mile Community Senior Center board l to r,He Cola successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, are asconducted the vehicles through with individual systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County thatmembers, DNRC. criticized the organization counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the Three isprofits proud thatviewed general contractor donated laclub is utilized byseptic local schools, little locally owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the See SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the shelter animals, wore fundraising campaign to fund the new granddaughter of Marcus Daly, gave which society can elevatesaid the this status quo project courts,Wildlife a walking path,Boy a playgroup had they didn’t Teller Refuge, Scouts bookstores are aon waning SeeThey 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 and achieve “public good.” come in all ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run has been four years3 and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of the shelter. with a 99-year lease. Six years later, pandemic hit and construction costs shapes and sizes, ranging purpose others. ininthe works,from 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 addressing societal needs to supporting skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive diOne Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured fifth from left, leads a gathering of people involved in the celebrating the opening of the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the country held the extracurricular hobbies to providing had to take out a mortgage to fitrained nish the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays to mothe same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. facility monkeys to help thosedue with on Trap the property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on capuchinThe Hamilton Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. She said2 bility impairments (yes, this nonprofit does shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and particexist). While determining a good cause to their vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the ipants each work to raise funds donate to is a very individual choice that reto act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to theirCity respective shelters. quires a personal assessment of your values, Hamilton Council met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said Christine Staub, a driving falling “quality, victim to mail way to combat the Hamilton Downtown facility will besuch more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as wellgauging as been providing Individual businesses a nonprofit’s effectiveness is a more day, Marchcommunity 5They to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. Hamilton. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just also donated to the fundraiser, accessible, empirical process. It feels good to give, but a upcoming city projects. at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to ship901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask questions also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of She also Marcus Daly even better to said makethat a difference. The new 12-acre campus will it feelsclinic. care” for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of ping depot for FedEx, and start the conyears Murphy. She led the Saturday. Charity organizations have been characisversation a critical access about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.”the Farrenkopf In recent years, theyShoppe provide primary, care, urgent care and Hospital, which Appreciation by Mayor DomiBoxxe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants terizedhospital, as comprising the “third sector” in a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have was recently rated #4byinlove. the Farrenkopf istaking legally justified you know and co-owners, and been steps a lengthy fund fund by Victoria Howell me like a ton of of the slumber party, and a barbeAmerican industry. In its 2023 “Montana lier,to made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After Chiefthe time. Snavely. However, at all thethe end of the which Stephen open acommupackage doesn’t nation for quality by Staub the national rating one of them, Every the Ravalli that, tothe sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest in cue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” Nonprofit Economicaccounting Impact Report,” 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, ingNonprofit agency, outAssociation of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors Montana 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 stated that 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 10 percent of Montanans were employed he said, with clinics in to Covid, Greg sent home from retiring. members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely saidcil that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been successvation inofso the Bitterroot through its tax collections and Many the that by charities in 2021.on Nonprofits, asthat a state The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet has aparticipants During the public period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows they ful. Joined by the other showing revenues over various projects and programs. spent the night were kids. During ranked number three in tional Forest (BNF) willRoberttoSteinTheindustry Cowboycategory, Ball at the Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: of the such council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. “become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey 50% of projections in One is their the party, participants employment share and to number one inshipwage hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. This is hoff stood to address the council. He said council member Jenny West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that happen able to uncover the say they are and Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” generation for theand year, and out ofshaping the $11 thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event the way it’s within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having have only or Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. by expenses awards three winners who can 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. nonprofits in Montana 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’sbillion goinggenerated to be an event worthy ofto a23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share Association informationand Troutence in 2021, a total of $2.6 billion was paid for Wildlife Unlimthoughts were shared by several other with Ms. Staub was one $16,000 in cash, common tactics and former council member, the 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 regarding the developout in wages throughoutscammers the state.include Ravalli ited. meeting called uponsuch Dr.appears Philcouncil members. opportunity. which thethe customer the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of to this do it The without each other,” wild land ethics or natural to be continuing when council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, ment of a draft forest County was listed as home to 352 nonprofits lip Ramsey toThe speak on the dangers In discussion agenda send-from a normal of In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe filled. said Luther. spread sciences. event.that Freeman is also thethan chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management generate more $150 million forin 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 is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Plan (CMP). The virtual“I thought counciltoand mayor howoflocal tional council members. the year. meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, was the issue re-roofing the city intending send a package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according tobeen 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 onby forNa12 public years. A realinestate February of 2021. 51 by is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will betoheld on See page 18 Management of assets demands 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, Bitterroot, and also He went through damage material.” Zoom. See below for only Stacey Umhey thetake visitors to the new SAFE shelter ribbon cutting. Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf, at right, wears his agent for 18 years here in the Sometimes than Boddy. learned that itaddressing would just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer was a frequent commenter Gibson got into it because he owns thein Paper valley. ForSee him, the experiencethey has been3 On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who high school in January 27, town clerk Jenelle DONATIONS, page the Army for 21 years, his organizational and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Thanksgiving fundraising turkey suit. He raised money to help get SAFE things like office supplies. Photo by John Dowd. 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 fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other maintesuggested to him that he victims, get involved people all over the valley,” and all of it hosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law and the executive completed a she semester of college the last administration. In currentfrom Hamilton, was recbutuse wishes similar meetings audience that was having good as chair oflanded the Cowboy Ball committee. told that the cancer got I potential felt familiar with of so herbadHe in jail,rewarding.” or that a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRa- course to network. then got onto the board has been “extremely for members, giving their report, director. Al gave a history of the and submitted her transcript that others within the commupublic comment, Crews told ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held in Freeman said the committee hopes to raise trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a fee needs had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was not very mer, it is the original roof, which has in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became Al was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding proof of compLeting nity would help her look out 2021. the council that those makto handle the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rodeo and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsomeduring significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the advithey have planned for the upcoming bers that time that led up to him associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one Inhas addition to the been in the by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he said. surgery on YouTube October was being water Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition into year. During the meeting, it was also taking on the position. the former chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn and eachpicious In addition to the the heating custom leathwhen has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, time left will cut down on bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged address the mayor, not the Greg Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided whatand “The story of the Bitterroot Valley 55boarded, board members participated the role. Al will be retiring in August this announced that long-time member, Al cants must meet tolonger be eligible was a resident at a local nel they had was no about and participate Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Photo courtesy considering recovered address, but(left. will be ready by Nathan Boddy taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. AlAllen spoke, Jodi stood to to thank Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately the anycustomgrab thehelp package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there gle and triumphs,” said Al. He said the organization’s history. According to him for all his and to remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual cowboy ball – which actually Another of these requiretreatment the boarding to had be to be provided with a ride isage not aupdate question and answer” ering, from 21 Covid-19. Mell ing a climbing plan, this er’s Mist, ain new business haseven recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page athing new Facebook page. Hower’s and in was meant to be a six-month front door when it arrives. The Hamilton City Council heard an the was doing, or could overarching goal for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what he was only supposed to held speak for year 10 Mitchell has been with the Chamments iscity that each applicant started 11the years agoor but couldn’t be last to the bank as well as to colon cancer journey. like,” recalls week’s meeting will covsession. “It’s public comment. ” did the work at no charge to opened at the same location. Howevartists have not shown their work in the particular cash, all of “They always direct on activities at the Rocky Mountain Laboratory ever, members of the public always been to keep businesses connect- appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. – has been upgradedthe ber for over 36 that years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to this The day after Overstreet. er the following agenda er, dissuading anymeeting worries on about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there details thethehad which was to victim to send it, ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted during itstried regular Tuesday, Novemwho had to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing the “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, he was isfrauduwhen realized changeover, itrole willhunting remain a place of should be a lot of interest in the new transaction. being required,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associber 19. Dr. Marshall Bloom, Associate Director of ly that he would be answering publicly thank Joanoffor help-beenshe Thesays, Town offorStevensville recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, it. “It’s ride 29“This numbers have been “trending every pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with I was nota good art. After two months of the renovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe Bank Secrecy Act Science Management at lab, told the councilation. Photo courtesy 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 in while town Greg objectives desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling while hidden behind brown-paper ly, it covwas notso far, manded from ofattorney 1970 requires banks to ors that he and envisions regular annual updates to and the owners are always being on the other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes ofas the public of Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. Pictured with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened welcoming more. “We like all kinds for patience she worked “I was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s first senior citizen keep track of withdrawals the city council in addition to bi-annual gatherings he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should beofprepared forsaid some its doors March 1.saidliaison group mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” with the community that currently through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new “It business feature Suzette Smith. encountered See page 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg Overstreet talksbusiness about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, tothe commuengage with laboratory representatives. Overstreet. hit will Jim Crews, former mayor to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom leatherwork by Karen Some such cirStaub is Bloom shared information aboutbyRML’s master Covid. Photo Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 Photo by Nathan Boddy. Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her were previous participants in the plan, which was last done in 2015 and is due for County Commissioners apwork is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plana by update. John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensville an 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 “We need to evaluate our facilities and proby 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 addition Smith A Hamilton business, hails planthe theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance gram andfloral makepatterns. sure thatInthat the master aligns 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 with the Monday, current goals of1st, our institution,” said January 2, Exit Realty in the some positive growth in the future. want to change a whole bunch right On April around 4:30 to According 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 Bloom. He explained that the process will involve 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 the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. compilation of data before a draft master plan and SEIS for A new record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, show95th State FFA the Convention inhas Billings district championships by Howell year, the2023-24 facility took inthe just under The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steaccompanying Environmental Impact Statement by John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rocknot be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though franchise split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all toart, put envelopes on January 18,participant’s for 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 isHowell done by her twotook casing the loveown of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: will be work distributed for public comment. Based onthatmain and spent every penny. venville’s beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. Fortunately, rights pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also roads heavy theowner scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by 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 Mccomments received, a final Master Plan will be Jasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of put valentine cards in kopf, activities director The Stevensville Town CounPark, a 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucks pulling and Parks got involved. The once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging trucks, mostly, a set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding ATRowner Smart Procedures is apublic softschools ininvolved the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement prepared. Bloom encouraged participation Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofnorth 1 Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer shooting See EXIT, page atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether to accept just toreally the north of the private piece oftheing boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toShinn theKyra state compartments where someone could stash some 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, Desin the process. (Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these bands, this will officer. “We have seen tremendous supAtsmall A Time Draft Horse Rescue it costs about $200 per month to feed Homes in Hamilton, is liked the idea. He asked a piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per hour there and is a developed fishing access site. drugs or hide a small flask of whiskey. The aim was Hamilton. However, after moving to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during the Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. to Willow Creek Road. Due to Wildlife Re-that defining old-growth stantreatment areVictor. withinOn anSaturday, April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and Dr. we greatly appreciate allareas Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotitem aSee nice these giants.” Then there are asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an that was at schools and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’s [the piece the Marshall Bloom addresses the Hamilton City Council on Tuesday, November 19. Photo by Nathan Boddy. to provide a learning opportunity toon see the COUNCIL, page 4 Montana, themeasures organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is the source Objective to “Maintain dards. Some objections to the area designated for insect and resource and financial limitalife-saving to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and boost last week when she was to send his residents a and daycares to make National Forest project that considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson said he didn’t west] still a viable piece of land for various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen in loveby with the Accordingproud tolopes. theofcontest orga-a time engaging ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team Last year the the music. This spring festival“Iother always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuespecially this during old-growth habitat disease treatment because ofinstruction tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this special envelopes and associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck forof$7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history that he believes is tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the county. The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only see a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Motnot be able to accommodate on suitable timberland to by the January 18 deadline dense pockets of dead and dythese horses. When they’re fi nally ready from representatives of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, of commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. to be more reallysupport popular, and from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even fromAbout his wounds andawas pronounced seeing lowest law en- had four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then 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 art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year.The These bands play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. ago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side 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 financing in California and Wisconsin, “We will have to re-plant a large and most of all, from the customers by Michael Howell within a 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 That developpets.” selection forHouston, awarding that gift See DUI, page 10 they held in Texas right af- to be These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, by John Down first created in the last “Itheads really opened the in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter that tial toIn wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell handling abass. billion dollars in notes finances part of the in theand nextutilized few themselves, both old and new. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away onCounty Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would beorchard maintained erty onon the west ofestablished the river,and then was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, 50 years.Creek To doRoad. this, theyJulie will door tomistletoe some permanent and for $9.5 One the problems, acOne that to asked return According toof Conroy, the the festival’s for large agricultural operations. She years and band that will becontinues our next big “Charlie are stillhave so inThe new managers ofthat Swanson’s issued a of press release detailed ment, Snavely noted there only interesting the project is complete. Ravalli the Draft SEIS limits scope Willow dwarf and just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… Iand think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find anortheast way to astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contend at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third try need to was ask the community conversations with people,” million, which Butler said cording tothe Butler, was, “we asis the Campbell Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourslipped easily into role of handling challenge,” said Kendall. “It will boost volved with us research and the Mountain View Orchard of event and investigation. However, been three of these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a or not needed in the community. They of itsphone environmental consespruce budwormyears. damage. County objects to in 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 event in button, cell batteries (out of feature the beauty of the andto participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” levy, which BVCC said speaking about was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1commented Horse At Aavailable Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They be joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” the marketing and sales aspect ofThe the our production because old trees don’t new developments here,” said Kendall. Corvallis, Kendall and Mouw, very little information isstate at amuch However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit organization that offers a pass came up with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, theRyan owner ofand 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, “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 orchard. produce as much as young ones.” “They are just such wonderful people, have a lot of plans for the future. But, this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program side targetcenter, which is were modeled after a that highly ber, said that nothing had been done at the river ononce the northeast had channel. Ifto you toart develop RDO Equipment Co. to Ravalli County and believe the pileated woodpecker and project is designed improve agreement with the proposed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the north if you don’t have batteries to recycle thought their successful art said Hafer, saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colton College (BVCC) trustee and without success. campaign, which because helped the unsure ofThe exactly how theshe was.” However, there soula, Idaho and more. event is abut allItshare the same love of bluegrass. aCollege small-scale operation comThe couple have different but willing to the share everything they know. according toto Kendall, the plans are not after Friends of the Bitterroot isisespecially passionate about getters. The officer is currently on leave neither norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted shut off river access on 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 to go. According come in“Crosspurpose.” all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road secretary, Sue Smith. She was Theresilience vote will take place to speak with the process worked. Theyadraft were seems to the have been a major pine marten. project, Ravalli County it isCounty contrary to law forest to natural single-microphone type event, with When why he loves bluegrass, pared toasked many of large growers complementary backgrounds and We are doing a lot ofwere things that similar hethe their own. Instead of Wild importing astanlot of during this investigation, as iswake munity members, harmed during That check followed inRavalli the horses. She and her husband, a ages 18 and older in both and called Itorganization offers and Alliance for the grounds. TheAccording price is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will the ninth year they schools west ofhave the sort Continental Divide Star Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer speaking about the May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under that the misunderstanding about the 4 single stage. toimpression Mike ConWashington state, but not so small experience and of split the wanted toaccording dobebut just get the new the suit couple plans on following “We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ”inthe disturbances like fire, insects Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, todidn’t Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a ideas $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed claiming the gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th. ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying events tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. public desired an independent nature of the community in terms of the Bitterroot, with about duties involved in the business. Before chance to see through.” the path that they have inherited along free training, Summit offers six-month offered officials also received species are listed in and disease;The reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks orForest fromcareer Tractor Supply. relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20406-549-4171 agency failed to use the best tained food be recycled Cardboard recycling will also be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. chapter. Schools of allamay classifications for the Stevensville FFA: ask public for help with a the Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following meetings, community college, as it was college. According to 20 Butler, 8,500 trees. They grow about difmoving here, Ryan was dairy farmer One thing they arethree carrying onowned is those with the place. That means paying atmentoring, support and friendship to sources is broken down into 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 and maintained ment in the Willow for a (second fee.together Any color, and labels available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception has sage been incredible. This year, they will giving away compete FFA includAgvarieties Sales place team Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn from left) 1 Horse At rare opportunity toadvice create a doors. to hold true.” She the trustees said in that this voted inofpreviously a high many believe it tobybe ferent of apples, but led 90% of Wisconsin and hein handles mostcan of byabout the recovery from abe major fire blight tention to the they areand get-wanted whoever walks through their Stevens that the first phase isJasmin RDOequipment.com 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 stay 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, Andrea Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comthe orchard accounting for most of the the operational aspects of the orchard infestation that wiped out almost half ting from Charlie and Julie Swanson, This program is the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care of draft is “Allworked Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and in the Bitterroot, Lander ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to with team members Jones, Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. terroot. According tohorses trustee 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 Also pictured Tiny, the non-profi t’s and theable toAdminbulk sales are MacIntosh, Empire and business, helping tomascot increase efficiency the orchard. They planted over 2,000 former owners ofYahraus, the historic orchard, ply with theMyla definition of said, old power duo the owner involves aptitude to idenan expensive proposition. Last will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page them have had some sort of Montana winners, which take the form of grant four of the twelve chapters are in the Teigen Hackett, and Charlie Leonard. See GOLD, pageis 65 vice chair, Jean Butler, give it its best chance to last public, did after being for community funds. After The reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Y OUR Hfrom OMEand Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator of the Environmental habitat including Inand a they letter to so the Forest Spartan.ty of Montana. in the operation, quality production new MacIntosh trees year plan and gleaning ideas thefounder communifirst horse thatmeadows, wasand rescued byESTIMATES 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch tify what each individual’s specific growth found in the Bitterroot per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of being significantly voted down and safety concerns. Kendall worked in on planting more. ty, local agencies and institutions thefrom center, and co-founder and ExecPaidthe fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 14 21 ART, page See SWANSON’S, 18 SeeSee SUMMIT, page4 4college cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas oldpublic. a community district twice, wentP.O. back
donations count 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 love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting
New studio opens its doors in Stevensville DUI Hamilton council updated on labTask activities
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
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 Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard plans for future
Davis for Senate Dist. #44
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