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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 41 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, 24,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Bitter RootValley Humane Association Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire subdivision approved Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Candidate’s Forum: Coffee with the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking forCounty medical center Come visit with and held support our Ravalli Candidates Three Mile Community Center open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier CafeBinkley. in Stevensville Greg Overstreet, David Bedey, Wayne Rusk, and Michele Refreshments provided speech, occupaby Victoria April 25, 2024 at 5:15 at 623 S. First Street, III Branches Law$140,000. by Victoria Howell shelter.Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com a levy, so this won’t any tional andhave physical
Howell by Kristin MichaelKruse Howell andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the proper by 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 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 be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has double purpose. included system, and a gorgeous view a ribbon andapplicant incorpo- is proposing to 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 ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are it as were many who own programs, the club supports said. make good as he itvolunteers can be as we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus 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 the course for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 Schmiedeke proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can TheThe surrounding conassessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners andIn 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. 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 by local schools, little owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the animals, fundraisingSee campaign to fund the new granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, ashelter walking a wore playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts 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 TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of thelease. shelter. with a 99-year Six years later, pandemic hit and construction others. in the works, costs but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The 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 had to take out a mortgage to finish the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on Trap the property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo 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 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 partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the ipants each work to raise funds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to theirCity respective Hamilton Council shelters. met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling victim way to combat the Hamilton Downtown facility will besuch more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as been providing “quality, Individual community businesses Fireworks Photo courtesy, visitbitterrootvalley.com. day, Marchover 5They toHamilton. discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. Hamilton. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just a also donated to the fundraiser, accessible, upcoming city projects. at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to ship901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask questions also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said that Marcus Daly for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of care” ping depot for FedEx, The new 12-acre campus will and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. isversation a critical access provide primary, care, urgent care and Hospital, which about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.” Farrenkopf In recent years, they Appreciation by Mayor Domithe Boxxe Shoppe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the Farrenkopf istaking legally justified you know co-owners, and been steps a lengthy fundand fund by Victoria Howell me like a ton of of the slumber party, and a barbelier,to made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After Chiefthe time. Snavely. However, at the end of the Stephen open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating one of them, Every the Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his thepresentation meeting,toduring the non-agenda items In the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in the Burnt area to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion thelately counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conseroverall, doing very well visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. by Victoria Howell are being recruited. There will also be he said, with clinics in to Covid, Greg sent home from retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successvation inofthe Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Many the participants that The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe a other the16 hospital with Mayor Farrenkopf has During the public period comments. members at the April countime. by John Dowd $20,000 this year, and that Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of she knows that over they ful. Joined by showing revenues various projects and programs. spent the night were kids. During tional Forest (BNF) willRoberttoSteinThe Cowboy Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: an oxygen of the such council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” that “become more vocal about a witness, was are, “often cil meeting in general thetank. made it his mission since he Ball at the When he about cost increase comes from owners, Katrina Mendrey 50% of started, projections in One is their the slumber party, participants host afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. This isonly 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 are shipcost of fireworks, licensing took office to fundraise the enseven years ago, the show The City of Hamilton is several fronts. According to and Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers two or three days. and insurance has gone up. tire cost of the show, without cost around $14,000. WIth looking for help again this Hamilton mayor, Dominic 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 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and one possibly as package: well.” Hernearly ing11 his paperwork.” Other going toor be ansuch event worthy oftotag a23% jubilee Riley explained that if theythat time, having to taxup, cityit’s residents, aamounted high price this year infrom hosting their annual Farrenkopf, ofexperitheStevensville main of the an attorney in During ofyear, three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share Association information Wildlife and Troutence Unlimwere shared bythe several with Ms. Staub was one $16,000 inother cash, common tactics for were to try cutnext costs, the level dig into any other city fundsaid he will fireworks show for the Fourth drivers inthoughts the price jump is and former council member, public attothe meeting Halfway through Farrenkopf celebration. projections due inhave large to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen 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 show would just get smaller. ing. He said this is important to pull out all the stops. He of July. The show has tradithat the former supplier for 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 lip Ramsey toThe speak on the In based discussion on regular agenda In March, a customwasThe unwittingly send-comes claiming county’s performance price increase from to him because not Freeman everyone does several things torephelp tionally been extremely pop-dangers theearly fireworks, innew Monthat have yetto to be filled. said Luther. spread sciences. event. is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with from a normal of his efforts to teach the the appointment of two addiClimbing Management theonly second regular of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, theavailable. first to be brought er came to the Boxxe Shoppe ingtrying to aforward scammer in same caliber enjoys fireworks resent the IRS or is looking pretty good, to hold the and it should raise the money, including atular, not for fireworks tana, is no longer One big savings was in 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“Ibut council mayor howoflocal tional council members. meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, thought was the issue re-roofing the city intending toand send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli This means that someone will of show as they have in years not come down to tax dollars. tending numerous events with enthusiasts in Hamilton, the budgeted funds for 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 February of 2021. that 51 is brain Christine Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will betoheld on See BOOKS, page 18 should run. He that “We’ll dobeour job, ”that said it wasn’t going affect me,on but street According topast. Hamilton viaI government FedEx. County CFO Klarryse need to drive out to announced Wyoming In maintaining “Not every taxpayer enjoys the tank, andshare standing from all around the county. theofAdministration. county’s in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, andfor isindunk one the biggest in the After itshop. was he would check was Savannah Deuter, agent 18 that yearsevent here the Bitterroot, and also He went through damage material.” Zoom. See below for than Boddy. learned that it would only take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer Sometimes they was a frequent commenter Gibson to pick them up. same level of show the comfireworks,” said Farrenkopf. out on the Hamilton City Hall This year, however, the price got into it because he owns the Paper valley. For him, experience 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 in the Army for 21 years, his organizational and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 See COUNTY, page 10 seemed con-introduced willthe tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, the building is used fordaughsnow That someone will be munity has come to expect, He believes the money should lawn during Hamilton has gone up significantly, and Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce by Jodi Mitchell, his at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Fivethat fundraising skills, and discipline, have been put to in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved one has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other mainteBubba Riley, the man has from there is now more pressure come onlybut those who may challenge the city mid-day toofbe suggested to him that hefrom get involved people allfarmers over themarkets. valley,” and all of it hosted apublic well-attended event ter-in-law andwho the current executive completed a she semester college the last administration. In Hamilton, was recpotential victims, wishes similar meetings audience that was having good use as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee. told that the cancer I felt familiar with course of so herbadHe landed in jail,rewarding.” ortothat a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRa- and organized and performed on the city, on the mayor, want show they According Farrenkopf, able to host without digging to got network. then gotthe onto the and board has been “extremely for members, giving their report, director. Al gave told a the history of the and submitted herin transcript that others within thesaid commupublic comment, Crews ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held 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 show for the last few years. to get the funds to make that have always been able to raise people from all over the deep into their pockets. 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 com- Rileybers some significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said toldduring the council happen. the entire amount ahead of The show will cost around the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the advi- 3 they have planned for the upcoming that time that led up to him associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one Seejust FIREWORKS, page 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 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 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 notand a 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’scould in was meant to be a six-month front door when it arrives. the was doing, or 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 location. covsession. “It’s public comment. ” did the work at no charge to opened at the same Howevartists have not shown their work in the particular cash, all of “They always direct ever, members of the public always been to keep businesses connect- appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. – has been upgradedthe ber for over 36 that years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to this The day after Overstreet. er the following agenda er, dissuading any worries about the Bitterroot Valley before, so there details thethehad which was to victim to send it, ‘no signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing thewas “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, 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 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 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 renovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlythat deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Upchurch. years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest by Kristin Kruse library. to be aware that libraries are a valuing times that were created during the See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town, ” flags abound when seniors are in while town Greg objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling while hidden behind brown-paper and the owners are always ly, it covwas notso far, manded from ofattorney 1970 requires banks to being on the other side andand partaking,” Thesaid president of the North Valable community resource, that Covid pandemic.” being scammed. “If a person Crews also that they said Overstreet. outcomes of the public ofPictured Montanawith Catering Service provide theof had Covid-19. Mell are, l towill Overstreet, ered windows, Studio opened welcoming more. “We like all kinds seniorseriously for“I patience as Jake’s she worked wasreaders obviously enough. Staub’s firstley keep track ofr, withdrawals hecitizen added, specifically referring to the Avid and local residents Public Library Foundation, Carla they do so much more than provide Laura Frazee-Sonsteng, whopage is See CHAMBER, 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should beofprepared forsaid some its doors March 1.said mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and can •now look forward to another fun Sanders, spoke about the Foundation’s books. People have access to computactively involved in assisting the sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location Provide an update The new “It business will feature business Suzette Smith. encountered commuSee pagecan 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, totheers, Overstreet. hit Jim Crews, former and interesting annualmayor eventOverstreet that has talks goals. which be used for creating library foundation with their fundraisto5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity. See COWBOY BALL page 4 See SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom leatherwork by Karen Some such cirStaub is Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, page been created with apage greater purpose “The current library location has resumes. There is also a video library, ing efforts, stated, “Growing up here2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants in mind. On May 4, the North Valley several structural, accessibility and large print books, children’s programs, in Stevensville, I utilized the North the Ravalli County Commissioners apwork is grounded in the Sheridan-style barns, former gallery, but the business plana by John Dowd famous artists with March and, 9th, members ofLast the week Valley This school year, the Public Library Foundation will host healthcowboys, issues,” said Sanders. “We are teen On programs most importantly, Public Library as aStevensville kid and proved adoption of a memorandum of understandof tooling which features variations on has changed since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contests by Dowd of the franchise, should notcan noand the south portions of people the valley, Exit team will continue workbyJohn John Dowd partment of Criminal Investigations their inaugural “Spring Soiree,” with hoping to build amany library that we a library is a place where can the Ravalli enjoyRealty taking my three-year-old son ing withthe County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. Inthat addition Smith Hamilton business, theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice thetook change atthe all,space. and itWhile may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After ing and marketing one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the investigation. the A hope of raising funds to gohails to-Nationalthe be proud of. A library of tomorrow, stay connected to each other. This was Protection Agency. The letter the commissioners statedwant 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 working toinan enand the contest is want still looking agricultural and leadership competito thetostate level and invitaby Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the south portion was purchased change a whole bunch right 20 On Monday, April 1st, 4:30 1889, According Hamilton Police Depart- sale, wards building abeen new and improved with room totogrow. We people especially important during the isolatSee SOIREE, page to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations Plan. manage timber to provide courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of thePolice, previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to A new the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. SEIS for record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved 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 Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rocknot be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though franchise split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all 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 beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. rights thatmain pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The Fortunately, 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 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 in kopf, activities director The Stevensville Town CounPark, a 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucks pulling and Parks got involved. The once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging trucks, mostly, a set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding ATRowner Smart Procedures is a softschools ininvolved the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half 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, Des(Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these bands, this will officer. “We have seen tremendous supAtsmall A Time Draft Horse Rescue it costs about $200 per month to feed 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(406) Willow Creek Road. Due to Management Wildlife Redefiningeffort old-growth stantreatment within anSaturday, Victor. April 13, the be“gentle their and for others that Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotitem a nice these giants.” there are initiated by the Soroptimist this day. On Just call 363-4600. longer term astime, they established more by Michael Howell 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’sThen [the piece the to provide a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, themeasures organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn HackNeely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is 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 International of Hamilton, a volunteer Originally called Family Violence permanent solutions. 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 to theofcontest orga-a time engaging ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team the Last year the the music. This spring festival always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who then transported ambuespecially this during old-growth habitat disease treatment because ofinstruction tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received Services, emergency shelter was made Polumsky called Soroptimist Thewas ground was broken week organization oflopes. women dedicated to little love this special envelopes and associated costs tothe rehabilitate presented with aValencheck foroflast $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. “Iother 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 is 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 that heencouragbelieves available by members offering their group, which is the celebrating itsForce, 50th on therepresentatives expansion project now underempowering, educating and 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 dense pockets of dead and dyhorses. When they’re fi nally ready from of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of DUI Task 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. tohomes be more really popular, and from allemptied over the area, andrefuge. beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even from his wounds and pronounced seeing lowest law en- had own temporary anniversary this year, “incubator” way atAbout Supporters of anwas Abuse Free ing women and girls to improve their 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 an driven or there, the necessary support viable populations having tothe dowith with thesupport ingfor trees. They claim the areaas awill been through their artacontest. The even more, full participation 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. At the same time, they began raising group that has helped spawn a numEnvironment (S.A.F.E.) in Hamilton. self-confidence, health, and socio-ecoago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. But then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’t ridden, and some just become “pasture located in from Hamilton. Part of contest the logging idea came a similar art all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the of old growth, new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a is 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto of The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place to be awhere police officer.” center opened itsAccording doors in 2020 after nomic standing. to Soropfunds to establish a regular shelter. ber of community programs including S.A.F.E. the only provider emertines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered the 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 the1991, in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ”program The letter that tial toIn wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away on Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their timist President Teri Polumsky, “a opened In program wasutilized renamed aerty mammogram at notes the hosgency shelter and services in Ravalli forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli County for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be the maintained and onon the west side ofestablished the river, 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, and 50 years.Creek To do this, they will door tomistletoe some permanent and for $9.5According One the problems, acOne band that continues to asked return toof Conroy, the festival’s issued a of press release that detailed ment, Snavely there have only interesting the project is complete. Ravalli Draft SEIS limits the scope Willow Road. dwarf and just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed little group of oldnoted ladies looked around Supporters of an Abuse Free Environpital, thethe Colors for Cancer campaign County for survivors ofsite. domestic potential river access bly steep… I think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third need to was ask the community conversations with people,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asis the 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 at the time, saw a need and went ment and by 2000 the organization and others. She said the success of the and intimate partner abuse. The new 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 state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” commented to pass a levy, which BVCC said Butter, speaking about 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 to available However, these are always a of danger nonprofit organization that offers a at came up and with the concept ofin career to work.” They began back 1988 wasVickie able toMotley, buildfinancial a park four-bedroom facilS.A.F.E. organization made them feel building project promises enhance mayor Jim Crews, the owner ofand land channel the deepest part the of board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think something Although in general burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials have that the theListen” Bitterroot March 9th, 2024, the phone). This isValley lastaIt’s minute info so to give back toAugust the community, “We never know what to expect,” the top half, all orisbecause above at the district Hackett withdrawn in ofservices 2020side Bitterroot Community has triedworking to dostated twice before their recent “Ask and the trustees Bitterroot Community horses. She’s always been horse was one ofValley the top four vote bands from over the 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 were modeled after a that highly with the YWCA in Missoula ity forsaid emergency services and devellike proud grandparents. and extend the critical that at the river on the northeast had channel. If you to develop ber, that nothing had been done RDO Equipment Co. 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 andproviding without success. campaign, whichoped helped the unsure ofThe exactly how theshe College was.” However, there soula, Idaho and more. event is abut allStacey share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot is especially passionate getters. The officer ishas currently on leave neither the norhotline any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization in Denver, by establishing a crisis for peonine units of transitional housing Umhey, Director ofabout S.A.F.E. the organization been attempted to shut off river access on for fishing, I officer, would also see aother problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, pageto 16 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 single-microphone with adraft When asked why he loves bluegrass, during this investigation, as iswake stanmunity members, were during where That check followed the horses. She and herthought husband, a ages 18 and older in Wild bothinRavalli and called “Crosspurpose.” It harmed offers similar and Alliance for the ple experiencing domestic and sexual folks suffering type fromevent, domestic since 1999, said “We at the since first being formed 1988. grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will be the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer speaking about the organizaMay 7, via a mail-in ballot. public onto the topic ofsexual creating under impression that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 single stage. tostay Mike “We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana the exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, according to Stevens. retiree, and their two children ofdard aS.A.F.E. $25,000 gift in November violence. The insects crisis line continues and violence could forCona military issuit the offspring of Dean See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed claiming the See SAFE, page 20 gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th.Additional ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA state qualifying events tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. public desired an independent nature of the community free training, Summit 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
The show mustscheduled go on Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting
New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task
Force, MAPS Spring Soiree to benefit library 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
S.A.F.E. shelter expansion underway
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
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forSenate SenateDist. Dist.#44 #44 www.braddavisforravallicounty.com for VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN THE
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