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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume Number 39 40 35 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at 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, 17,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelteroutdoor hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Youth ed opportunities Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercenter open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Michael Howell by Kristin Kruse
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the proper Thechanges park additional impact on people’s therapy services – provided by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision review the environmental by John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.oftaxes. It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property The Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. 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 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 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 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 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 located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” 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, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit the by John Dowd 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 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 applicant be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has double purpose. It included a ribbon system, and a gorgeous view andlacking incorpo- is proposing to payments contributors were the Three programs such as The Though the snow may have been on continuing to al “slumber party” event. The Creek Road and Florence. The land is honor being a of 100-foot by 100were also expressed about the (DNRC) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothededicate rated in 2014. Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. According to club this winter, area locals can expect an excess expand Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thataFamthe the west. Sheorganizasaid the for the use and Those payRock Park and theservices. Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel facility, including tours of the youth opportunities this spring. Two 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 Ravalli that program tions based in county have upcoming building, and an 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 with their for youth events packed with opportunities terroot Health CEO, those who have come before us and ” drink in honor of the organization’s members who participated to stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are it as were many who own programs, the club supports said. outdoor education. make 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 The Teller Wildlife Refuge and Montana Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization the course for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 Schmiedeke proposal ispark for sinTheboth 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 Matters Youth Outdoor Experience are peth, chair ofwithout the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon The Sun- received gle-family residential use dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Hope Project. planning outdoor conservation and recreation ItMontana is often said that Three Mile Community Senior Center board members, l to r, Colorganization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County that DNRC. He criticized the counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the is proud that general contractor donated laclub islocally utilized bytwo local schools, gatherings. The have done this nearly little owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the animals, fundraisingSee campaign to fund the new granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, ashelter walking a wore playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts every year since 2013, when they started their bookstores are aon waning See the CENTER, page 3 pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then Covid-19 the BRHA land Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run has been four years and Triple Creek The Ranch, among events together. events have shared Bitterroot the Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. However, the in support of thelease. shelter. with aat99-year Six years later, others. event the same place and on the sameter dayRoot Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon pandemic hit and construction in the works, costs but folks that own Chapter Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive di-when they split. until confusion a in year ago, One Book Store, 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 to the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been Although this year they will stay separate, they ilton, may take exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on the property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Trap Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The plan on coming back together next year, at the to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. She said2 shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building refuge. cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowd do. Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have The first of the two events, by hosted by Monnorth of “We the Stevensville Junction. an Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the ipants each workmodel to raise funds toNathanto of this.” people tana Matters Youth Outdoor Experience, willact now, and stay ahead the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to theirCity respective shelters. Hamilton Council met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail take place May 4, at the Fairgrounds in HamilChristine 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 community businesses day, It March 5They tofrom discuss several there was not much they knew to do ton. will run 10 a.m. toforce 3 p.m. at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. Hamilton. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just a also donated to the fundraiser, accessible, upcoming citysponsored projects. at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to shipThe event, by Montana Conser901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask questions also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said that Marcus Daly for 90 people years. when of the meeting concern looka into it ashealth “more and more vation Elders, will opened, draw over 40 organizations presented with Certificate of care” ping depot for FedEx, The new 12-acre campus will and start conyears operation. 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 to participate. These organizations will range In recent years, they Appreciation by Mayor Domithe Boxxe Shoppe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeks earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the from conservation groups likenic Montana Fish, 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 the opening. After the time. Snavely. However, at the end of the Wildlife and Parks to numerous summer camp Police Chief Stephen open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating one of them, Mara 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 the meeting, during the non-agenda items programs, which are the true stars ofpresentation the show. In to the City bears its shipping know the details Tom Powers, Fred Upchurch and Nicole Ballard stand in front of the Teller Wildlife Refuge office, holding up the postLynn 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 period, the Burnt Fork area lately to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion several ofAfter the counCouncil on March 15th, Chief label. following of what potential of the many ways they ciation works to affect conseroverall, doing very well ers for their upcoming events. Photo by John Dowd. visit theMichael shelter. 6 by Howell. See YOUTH, page Victoria Howell being recruited. also be he said, with in doingaresent to Covid, Greg home from There willby retiring. members weighed in onclinics Steinhoff’s Snavely saidcil that he wants the protocol, and victims are told, but have been successvation inofso the Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Many the participants that The Bitterroot NaOverstreet has a the hospital with During the public comment period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of she knows that over they ful. Joined by the other showing revenues various projects and programs. spent the night were kids. During tional Forest (BNF) willRoberttoSteinThe Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: of the such council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. “become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One is their the party, participants hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. is hoff stood to address the council. He said council member Jenny West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that happen able to uncover the to say they This are shipand Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. expenses have only or awards three winners who can 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing11 his experiof the paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share information by Kristin Kruse Wildlife Association and Troutence Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, commondue tactics for and former council member, public at the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections in large to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, by Victoria Howell regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of to this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural appears to be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, ment of a draft forest Serving the community Stevensville lip Ramsey toThe speak on the of dangers In discussion agenda send-from a normal of In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe filled. said Luther. spread sciences. event. Freeman is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management theasecond regular has been driving force for Bob of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, theShoppe first to be brought er Thomas came to the Boxxe ing to aforward scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Plan (CMP). The virtual counciltoand mayor howoflocal tional council members. for decades and the word meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, “I “community” thought was the issue re-roofing the city intending send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. Now by John Dowd of that as the executive director. of the winners to receive a Mara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo by John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate for February of word 2021. that 51 is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will betoheld on See BOOKS, page 18 was the one that came up over and After should run. He that “We’ll dobeour job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but I government street shop. According to Hamilton via FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the it was announced he would check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and also He went through damage material.” Zoom. See below forwith than Boddy. over when he the Bitterroot learned that itspoke would only take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer was a frequent commenter Gibson got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, theSometimes experiencethey has been On Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who graduated high school in January 27, town clerk Jenelle the Army valley. for 21 years, his and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Star. Thomas has served the Stevensville Seeorganizational COUNTY, page 10 seemed con-introduced will tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Fivethat fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to in he was was no joke. “It Community Foundation in many different 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. ways over thegiving past 20 years now, after 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 theand company nance equipment. According tochamRa- course to network. then got onto the board has been “extremely for members, 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 retiring as a long-standing board member, 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 he reflects on his 20 years of dedication. $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 leastDowd one Inhas addition to to theStevensville by John Dowd chines. by John Thomas came at the became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly been in the 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 In addition to the the heating custom leathyoung age of 4, and graduated from Stepicious when has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, and each 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 in Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Chapter One Book Store would like toready invite the vensville High School 1969. After high Chamber Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Photo courtesy considering recovered address, but(left. will be taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” 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 Stevensville Main Street business, Rivthe work of more than a dozen local community to their second annual Pie Breakfast. school he moved to Missoula to attend 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 his help to remind him back from the the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual balland – which actually Another of thesethis treatment boarding to history. be to be had provided a ride isage notand a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, er’s Mist, ain new business haseven recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page 21$60,000 event started last year asdoor a way tospeak give back athing new Facebook page. Howschool andcity planned on pursuing career er’sacould in was meant to be a The or front when it arrives. the was doing, or overarching goal for the Chamber has him, what six-month he was only supposed to for 10to 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 willbusiness. covsession. “It’s public ” their did work the work no charge to opened at the same location. Howevartists havecomment. not shown in at the community and to have a lot of fun. Each year, in the construction That plan the particular cash, all of “They always direct the ever, members of the public always been to keep businesses connect- appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. – has been upgraded this ber for over 36 that years, and spent a 500-word essay dis-much Boxxe Shoppe. due to The day after Overstreet. ersubmit the following agenda er, dissuading any worries about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there bookstore owners workto with other members of changed Thomas graduated with a thethehad details which was to send it,membership ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who had and tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed everythe moment Jodivictim stated that the cussing the role hunting “It’s common sense to me,” year. topics: surgery, he was is when realized changeover, it willfrom remain a place of should be a lot of interest in the new the community to organize the event and pick out degree in finance Montana State transaction. being fraudurequired,’” 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 Thesays, Town offorStevensville recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, it. “It’s ride 29“This numbers have beenever “trending everyan pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first year we’ve done fully diagnosed with I was nota good art. After two months ofinrenovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlythat organization to donate the proceeds to. According deThe Bank Secrecy Act University in Bozeman 1977. He began ation. Photo courtesy Upchurch. said” Al. “I’mabound looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest to See RCFW, page 3questions from the public. ing me and helpingyears,” the town, when seniors are center, for filling in while town attorney Greg Overstreet objectives desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. The University COVID-19. taking Covidflags while behind brown-paper covco-owner Marisa Neyenhuis, the breakfast will ly, it working was notso far, and the owners are always manded from of 1970 requires banks to take his 40hidden yearand long career in finance, being on the other and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said outcomes ofas the public ofPictured Montana Catering Service provide theof had side Covid-19. with Mell are, lbetween towill Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened more. “We like allOverstreet. kinds seniorseriously for patience she worked “I was obviously enough. Staub’s firstwelcoming citizen keep track ofr, withdrawals place on Saturday, April 20, 8:30 and 11 5 with several banking institutions including he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should beofprepared forsaid some its doors March 1.said US Bank, mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order a.m. at the Rocky Mountain Grange on Hwy 93 on First Bank inissues. Missoula, Rocky very weakened,” through the Mayorthey’re Steve Gibson, council sudden coming into the members Cindy Brown and The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an and update The new business will feature business partner, Suzette Smith. encountered the commuSee STEVI, page 2 the south side of Hamilton. Neyenhuis invites every“interesting comments” from Mountain Bank Ravalli County Bank. Greg Overstreet talks about his recent brush with death due to Overstreet. “It hit Jim Crews, former mayor bank to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. byand Victoria Howell. at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell onsite leatherwork byPhoto Karen such cirStaub is one to visittingle.” enjoy someSee pie SCAMMERS, and music. Thecustom Stevensville Community FoundaCovid. by VictoriaSome Howell. page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense See PLAN, page 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one of the owners. previous participants The Pie Breakfast will be free to attend, with tion was established in 1994 andHer Thomas werePhoto Ravalli County Commissioners work is grounded in 2004, the Sheridan-style formercowboys, gallery, but the business plana by John famous artists with On March 9th, members ofLast the week thedonation This school year, theofStevensville a recommended at the door $15. The apjumped onDowd board in and has held barns, 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 event will include live music by the “Flaming Suthe position of treasurer, and board presby ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continuecontests workbyJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing withthe Ravalli County DUIMara Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith A Hamilton business,Inthat hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of zettes,” fourteen requiring qualification to advance athe local group including Luther ident. tice thetook change atthe all,space. andinvestigation. itWhile may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After ing and marketing as 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 secured video designed to her leatherwork, isaround also RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working toinan enand theto contest is still looking agricultural leadership competitoBig theto state level and Ben Morse, and Creek Coffee donated allinvitathe “I am really proud to1st, have worked on 1889, by Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the southand portion was purchased want change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 4:30 According Hamilton Police Depart- sale, 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 coffee for the event. the board with so many wonderful peoBitterroot 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.The aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to toAme thesaid valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition atPie theBreakfast drew over 150 people last year, ple,” Thomas. “What appealed concerning the Draft SEIS for new record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated impacts toevents. changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. When asked how this change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide show95th State FFA the Convention inhas Billings district championships and Neyenhuis believes there could becreation more this about the foundation iscontest, that Iiflike andissued by Howell year, the2023-24 facility took inthe just under The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rocknot be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though franchise split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was on December 17, retain old growth status in all toart, put envelopes on January 18,participant’s for filingby objecbyher Victoria hisCorvallis property which wouldschools in effect with the highway, which is aastate addressed when the private land was Mischief$240,000 Room May and commissioners all work isHowell done her twotook casing the loveown of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: and spent every penny. venville’s main beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. rights that pertained toby the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The Fortunately, engagement Snavely stated that an inquest isKruse. also Bob Photo Kristin 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 offThomas. access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re goingequipment sold toproject aing new Fish, Wildlife See PIES, pageof4 signed off on it. The involved creation tions to the Draft SupplemenSee THOMAS, page 3 hands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the active, though all Over 200 students in StevensAgronomy led by Sidney McJasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of put valentine cards kopf, director The activities Stevensville Town CounPark, ain 20-acre parkare onwelcome the east bank have two accesses for trucksatrucks, pulling and Parks got involved. once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging mostly, set of easily accessible items that hadThe secret hiding ATR Smart Procedures is a softschools in the valley to ville’s agricultural education program Casland, 1st place individual with tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just get up there and play.” current owner of the north valley half chise was split between the north ing to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot volunteer But Shinn said executive director of 1 Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer involved shooting situations. See EXIT, page 12 at Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf really cil was split on whethernow to accept just to the north of of boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toForest-wide theKyra stateDeswhere someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s but not limited to, theitimpacts plan amendment about piece 90% proposed ware design company, basedcific in forest participate. Some of the the private schools even learn about a wide range ofcompartments agriculteam members Rahl, (Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of Quinn these bands, this will officer. “We have seen tremendous sup-of the Stevi At A Time Draft Horse Rescue costs about $200 per month to feed Homes in Hamilton, is liked the idea. He asked a small piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county Wye at 45 miles per hour there and is a developed fishing access site. drugs orthe hide aJarlais, small flask of whiskey. The aim Hamilton. However, after moving to include the contest in their curricutural careers and during and Teigen Hackett. to practices Willow Creek Road. Due to Wildlife Re-was defining old-growth stantreatment within anSaturday, Victor. On April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others that Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, got a nice these giants.” there are asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an item that was at schools and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the to provide parents a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, the organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is source Objective to “Maintain dards. Some objections to the area designated for insect and resource and financial limitalife-saving measures 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 the 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 and Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and were so full will they The project now is lopes andsee fundraiser feature 18accommodate bands these one newer band bytimberland the it,” interesting lance to thecounty. hospital. He expired there in American history thatdense he is believes tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing said Motnot be able to on suitable to by the January 18 deadline pockets of dead and dyhorses. When they’re fi nally ready from representatives of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, by Michael Howell as evaluate the feasibility at other mine contains high concentrations of resource development and strengthen 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 there, said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch most can bethe driven ormarpermitted abandoned mineThey claim cerium, gallium, neodymium, America’s position in global the necessary maintenance support viable populations having tothe doand/or with the ingfor trees. the area will been through their art contest. The even more, with full participation their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asyttrium, FFA of Chapter Meeting: team mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal with old minutes andmore. 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 The Montana Legislature’s En-logging sites ingrowth, Montana forproblem REEin and critical zinc, and much Furthermore, ketplace. We respectfully urge you to ridden, and some just become “pasture located in from Hamilton. Part of contest the idea came a similar art all the high schools the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine during the project, the of old new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place to be awhere police officer.” center opened its 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 vironmental Quality Council (EQC) minerals recovery. similar opportunities to recover REEs consider this Defense Subcommittee pets.” 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 beetle, in 2020. That developfirst 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 the 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 incrediitment would be materials maintained and utilized erty onon the west ofestablished the river, then voted unanimously last week to send The letter to Congress, signed by and critical are likely to exist programmatic appropriation request.” was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, and 50 years.Creek To doRoad. this, theynoted will door tomistletoe some permanent and for $9.5According One the problems, acOne band that to asked return toof Conroy, the the festival’s issued a of press release that detailed ment, Snavely there have only interesting thecontinues project is complete. Ravalli the Draft SEIS limits scope Willow dwarf and western just toeast the north oftoFort Owen State together toofdecide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… I the think there are liability forother recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. letters ofwanted support Congress and the to was chairman EQC Representative at abandoned mine sites, as wellby Gunderson told the Bitterroot Star, ATR to find atry way to astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contend at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third need ask the community conversations with people,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asis the Campbell Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourevent and investigation. However, been three of these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a or not needed in the community. They of itsphone environmental consespruce budwormas damage. County objects to in shifting Bitterroot National Forest During the tenure of former issues… It is the fastest part of“The the years. idate highway property into the Town Environmental Protection Agency urgSteve Gunderson, states that, at about currently operating mine oper“It isFFA my understanding that Montana The original proposal was The next glass recycling event in button, cell batteries (out of feature the beauty of the state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” commented to pass a levy, which BVCC said Butter, speaking was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1 Horse At A Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They will be joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information is available However, these are always a of danger nonprofit organization that offers a at came up and with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, theallocating owner ofand land channel the deepest part the of Vickie Motley, park board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials the ing them to consider fundBerkeley Pitthat presents a unique opporations. By investing inthe this proposal, Resources, which has operated the the Bitterroot March 9th, 2024, the phone). This isValley last info so to give back toAugust the community, “We never know what to expect,” the top half, orisbecause above at the district Hackett withdrawn in of vote 2020side Bitterroot Valley Community has triedhave to dostated twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” the trustees Bitterroot Community horses. She’s always been a minute horse was one of the top four bands from all over valley, Mis- were MRBA has 300 members, andfan, they this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program targetcenter, which is modeled after a highly at the river on the northeast had channel. If you were to develop that ber, said that nothing had been done RDO Equipment Co. ing to support further development of tunity for the recovery of rare earth Congress can stimulate economic copper and molybdenum mine outside to Ravalli County and believe the pileated woodpecker and project is designed to 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 once successful art said Hafer, saying that art 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 comtowards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I officer, would see aother problem the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 aed project for the recovery of rare earth elements and criticalalso minerals. The growth, create new jobs, and enhance Butte for nearly four decades, already end of the Ravalli County Fairnow you can save up to bring them contest was the way to go. According come in all forms. District in Montana consists of twelve Harris 8571 Running W. Road secretary, Sue Smith. She was The vote will take place organization to speak with the process worked. They were seems to have been a major pine marten. project, the Ravalli County it is contrary to current law forest resilience to natural asked bluegrass, during thisolder investigation, as iswake stanmunity members, were during single-microphone type event, with adraftWhen That check followed inRavalli the horses. She why and he herloves husband, a ages 18 and in Wild both and called “Crosspurpose.” It harmed offers similar and Alliance for the elements (REEs) and critical minerals water treatment plant waste stream our national security; it aligns with 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 organizaMay 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, to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift in November See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming the See BUTTE, 3 at the Berkeley Pit in Butte, as well from thisaccording former open-pit copper broader efforts topublic promote domestic 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. desired an independent nature of the community 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 may be recycled Cardboard recycling will also be lead coordinator, Tamar Hafer, the ATR donates thousands in prizes. chapter. Schools of all classifications for the Stevensville FFA: ask the public for help with a Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college. According to Butler, mentoring, support and to sources is broken down into threecounty phases. acre available farm which Shinn saidteam canitsupport That sounds like a lotfriendship of comments from Philip thefor Forest Plan, but owned and maintained ment inhold Willow for a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels apeople fee. available science in managing reception has been This year, they will be giving away compete in FFA includ2nd place led bybe Presenting a the check for $7500 from JCCS to Jasmin Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by aStrobel rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. and wanted to true.” She thephase trustees said that this voted inofpreviously high Ag Sales many believe itistonot whoever walks through their Stevens stated that the first is RDOequipment.com about 20 horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear whether there are other roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stayAndrea on,AA but please remove lids. Sponsored by the non-profits When speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the 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 called “personal development,” which taking care ofisdraft is “All Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and in the Bitterroot, Lander said, ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to with team members Jones, Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. terroot. According tohorses trustee worked to alter the 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 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, it its best chance to byESTIMATES public, did after being for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality •FREE INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR HOME Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator of the Environmental habitat including In a they letter to so the Forest first horse thatmeadows, wasand rescued 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch and foundergive tify what each individual’s specific growth found the Bitterroot per 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, and co-founder and ExecPaidthe fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 14 21 ART, page 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
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Hearts full ofrevisit love Stevi to refinancing bonds Thomas recognized for service Chapter One
welcomes Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting community to breakfast New studio opens its doors inpie Stevensville DUI 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
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Centerpresses offers for rare earth mining at Butte Legislative committee more than career guidance
Davis
forSenate SenateDist. Dist.#44 #44 www.braddavisforravallicounty.com for VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN THE
SOUTHGATE To MALL Protect our493-0051 Heritage