W Weee W ell SSSell ell
PRST PRST STDSTD PRST STD PRST STD POSTAGE USUS POSTAGE US POSTAGE US POSTAGE PAID PAID PAID PAID STEVENSVILLE MT MT STEVENSVILLE STEVENSVILLE MT STEVENSVILLE MT PERMIT 89 89 PERMIT PERMIT 89 PERMIT 89
icenSeS l llicenSeS icenSeS
Outlet StOre OUTLET STORE
FOrall all yOur ammunitiOn For or all your ammunition mmunition F your a unting n & &H HH unting needS eedS & unting n eedS
• • 777-2822 4034 Hwy 93 N. • • 4039 93 NN N Stevensville, 4034 HWY HWY 93 STEVENSVILLE (406) 777-2822 STEVENSVILLE www.ammoandmorestore.com
www.ammoandmorestore.com www.ammoandmorestore.com
Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume Number 39 46 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, Wednesday, April May26, 10, 29,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Corvallis track does it again 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 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 businesses day, Marchcommunity 5They to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. Hamilton. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just 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 who discussion ofAfter thelately counThe Corvallis’ boys and clerk, girls track teams won15th, theperiod, Class State Championship in Laurel on May 23-25. Both teams also won last year, giving them back to back Council onboth March Chief Aseveral label. 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 state titles. Photo by Jake Boaz. have been so successvation inofthe Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Many the participants that The Bitterroot Na-comment for fullshe story, see page Overstreet hasthe a other During the public period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of the hospital with knows that they10 ful. Joined by showing revenues over various projects andkids. programs. spent the night were 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 Association informationand Troutence Wildlife 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 by Nathan Boddy or dying.” The majority of the trees ill-health and in need of removal. Nonetheless, Fox’s presentation to the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies the 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 to speak on the dangers In discussion on regular agenda In early March, a customwas unwittingly sendclaiming county’s performance are Norway Maple, and all are situ“It’s going to be quite a bit of City Council highlighted numerous that have yet torepbe filled. said Luther. The spread sciences.Management event. Freeman is also the chair of the to Rodeo diagnosed with regular a normal of his efforts to teach the new the appointment offrom two addiClimbing At the second of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, the first rights-of-way. to be brought erTuescame to the Boxxe Shoppe ing to aforward scammer inchange,” said Fox during herisCommittee, resent the IRS or in looking pretty good, their regular meeting on ated on public While presentrees with dangerous rotten areas, or One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say PlanMay (CMP). The virtual counciltoand mayor how local tional council meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to “I thought was the issue of re-roofing the city intending send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security to Ravalli day, 21st, the Hamilton City many of the trees slated for removal at members. tation. She also informed theaccording City splits in the trunks which could presthe 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 Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will beatoheld on See BOOKS, page 18 should run. Hein front “We’ll job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but street According to Hamilton viaI government FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse Council heard recommendation by present time stand of indi-dobeour Council that trees to replace those aevent substantial surrounding theofrisk county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, andfor that theto biggest in the After itshop. was announced that he would check was Savannah Deuter, agent 18 ent years hereisinone 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 Parks and Urban Forestry Director, vidual residences, the trees that line cut should be in the ground within a property. Furthermore, she explained got into it because he owns the Paper valley. For him, the 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 will to tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is used fordaughsnow Amy Fox, for removal of some trees Main Street in front of the Creamery year or two of the dead trees’ removal, that urban trees tend endure far Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce 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 maintewithin deemed be,event “dead Building atand 400 West Main areHamilton, also in was pending the condition removal ofwishes harsher than their non-ursuggested to him that heorvictims, get involved people allconditions over the valley,” and all of it hosted aHamilton well-attended mid-day ter-in-law the current executive completed a she semester ofto college the last administration. In from recpotential but similar public meetings audience that was having good use as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee. told that cancer got badHe I felt familiar with of so herstumps. landed in jail, ortothat a prize about thethe track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According Ra- course ban counterparts due increased torotten network. thenothers got onto the board has been “extremely rewarding.” for members, giving their report, director. Al gave told a history of thetochamand submitted herin transcript that within the 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 Fox said that landowners occatemperatures, irregular watering and in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became Al was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about what ber, and spoke about important memproviding proof of compLeting nity would help her look out 2021. the council that those makto handle the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rodeo and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsomeduring significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said sionally contact her with concerns potential damage to root systems. the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the advithey have planned for the upcoming bers that time that led up to him associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one Inhas addition to the been in the by John Dowd chines. sus-taking Shoppe, Staub funds. Thehave scammers will ing public comment caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking “They’re just getting old,” heshe said. about the health a tree their chutes. it transition rough,” surgery on October was being water Throughout time, he near knew for Jodi,trees helping her into year. During the meeting, it wasbecame also on theshould position. the former YouTube chantwo of several criteria appliofthat theof potential victims she sor “Urban opportunity to learn In addition to the custom leathpicious when has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, and each time left will cut down on the heating bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged homes, while others take the news said, “a lot gets thrown at them.” 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 of arecovtree’s removal agrowth bit harder. She While landowners are expected to up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest 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 extended 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 the package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there explained that she does understand care for the trees and grass that occugle and triumphs,” said Al. He said the organization’s history. According to him for all his help 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 front door adjacent when it arrives. the was doing, or how the removal a be longstanding py the right-of-way tofor their overarching goal for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what was meant to a six-month he was only supposed to held speak 10 Mitchell has been with the Chamments iscity that each applicant started 11the years agoor but couldn’t be last year to theofbank 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 thetrees ever, members of the public part of one’s environment can be a homes, pruning and removal always been to keep businesses connect- appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. – has been upgradedof 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 send ‘nocity. signature The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted shock. is the responsibility ofit,membership the who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment Jodi statedtothat the cussing thewas “It’s common sense to me,” 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 helphard because you can’t justthat City Council also heard The Town offor Stevensville recognized attorney Joan Mell, it.“It’s “It’s been a good ride 29“This numbers have beenever “trending every she says, pointing out red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the fiThe rst year we’ve done aup fully diagnosed with that I was not art. After two months of renovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lentlyplant deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Upchurch. another full grown tree,” she updates from Public Works Director years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highest See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town, ” flags abound when seniors are for filling in while town attorney Greg objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, while hidden behind brown-paper ly, it covwas notso far, and the owners are always manded from 1970 requires banks to explained. some cases, DonnyofRamer on the ongoing utility being on theIn other side and where partaking,” being scammed. “If athe person also said that they said outcomes ofas the public of Montana Catering Service will provide the had Covid-19. Pictured with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened more. “We like allOverstreet. kinds seniorneed for patience she worked “I was obviously seriously enough. Staub’sCrews firstwelcoming citizen keep track of withdrawals of 5 for removal is anticipated far work on North 3rd, as well as from 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 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 Stevetree Gibson, council Cindy Brown andhis in advance, asudden replacement can into Police Chief Steve Snavely about they’re coming the members The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new “It business feature Suzette Smith. encountered See page 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg Overstreet talksbusiness about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, tothe commuOverstreet. hit will be nurtured alongside the older one, force’s successful biannual recertificaJim Crews, former mayor to withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. Photo by Victoria Howell. at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page 5 by Michael Howell onsite custom leatherwork byPhoto Karen such cirStaub Covid. by VictoriaSome Howell. See SCAMMERS, page 2 easingisthe transition somewhat. makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one ofpage the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants See TREES, page 15 County Commissioners apwork is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plana by John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensville proved adoption of a memorandum of understandof tooling which features variations on has changed since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contests by ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue workbyJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing withthe the Ravalli County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith A Hamilton business,Inthat hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice thetook change atthe all,space. andinvestigation. itWhile may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After ing and marketing one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the Protection Agency. The letter the commissioners stated National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a video designed to her leatherwork, Karen is also an RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working to en1889, and the contest is still looking agricultural and leadership competito the state level and secured invitaby Since Michael Howell January 2, Exit1st, Realty in the some positive growth in the future. want to change a whole bunch right On Monday, April around 4:30 toAccording to Hamilton Police Depart- sale, the south portion was purchased to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations Plan. manage timber to provide courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of thePolice, previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to A new the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. SEIS for record of decision forest products and toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would begrades. possible The DUI Task Force approved 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 in April. for Stevensville include: by John ulent in his work on birds and even 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 the valley, Exitroads Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. The Fortunately, engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also heavy the scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by most a drag, Draft treatment units. According toDowd all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re goingequipment sold toas aing new owner Fish, Wildlife signed off on it. The project 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 Mcwent far as making up several Jasmin Shinn, founder and There paid employees; it’sand, an allThe annualAdditionally, Montana Rockies beare no no break from the music, “No according to Kimsuspect Lendman, now the When they sold the fransame company. accord-mostly, in. Photo by John Dowd. place after the threatened andthatValley. standard procedure init,these types of press 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 provides a site-spea Forest Service release and logging trucks, 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 program Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement Ravalli County chapter of thevolunteer birds, including the “Washington Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north toThe Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But Shinn 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 to 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, DesNational Audubon Society is underEagle,” which does not exist. She (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. going some big changes. According to also said that he dug up the graves of to Willow Creek Road. Due to Wildlife Re-that defining old-growth stantreatment withinOn anSaturday, Victor. April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, gotitem a nice these giants.” there are asking the community students Stevensville bridge, an that was at schools and negotiated the donation of the are going to under bepresident 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 HackMicki Long, of the BitterNative Americans and sent the skulls Center will againsaid be do this professionally, the event is the source Objective toland “Maintain dards. Some objections to theSnavely. area designated forNeely insect and resource andhosting financial limitalife-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said He was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and boost lastForest week when she was to team send his residents and daycares to make National project considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson he didn’t west] still a viable piece of for in which any young person can hide and have fallen inathat love with the According tolopes. the contest orga-a time engaging instruction ofmusic ag various teachers ett, place individual with team root Audubon Society, following aways to a 1st researcher studying the pseudoLast year the envethe music. This spring festival always a treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported by ambuespecially proud of this during sufficient old-growth habitat disease treatment because of tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this Valenspecial envelopes and other associated costs to rehabilitate presented with a check for $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now nizers, river access pending the outcome of see whatHackett use the land is tomembers the town. “I city have, whether or not you put their substance usetofrom casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One of the ways last year there over 210 Josette andlocal Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and nationwide trend, feel scientific theory of phrenology. were so full they Thewere project is now is lopes and fundraiser will feature 18 bands one newer band bytimberland the interesting lance to thecounty. hospital. He expired there in history thatdense he believes tine’s Day. decorate them forAmerican each revert to the The 1.52-acre the access dispute. see adyliability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Motnot be able to accommodate onWhen suitable to the January 18 deadline pockets of only dead and these horses. they’re fichief nally ready from representatives of JCCS, anby Glenda Wiles, Director ofamong the DUI Task Force, of commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. that it is important that they turn These are the reasons to be more reallysupport popular, and from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even fromAbout his wounds andawas pronounced seeing lowest law en- had four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tells parents is,so you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch most can be driven or there, the necessary maintenance support viable populations having tothe dowith with theparticipation ingfor trees. They claim the area their been through their art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, aswith FFA Conduct of Chapter Meeting: team away from association there has been a“If nationwide move mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year.The These bands will play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. ago, a resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes and found that the land Imembers think it can be used for parking. But then younor don’t see. Iffrom 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 sancZane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine during the project, the of old growth, John James Audubon, and rename away association with the Audunew 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 be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 That developpets.” selection forHouston, awarding that gift See DUI, page 10 they held in Texas right af- to be These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, their bon name. by John Down first created in the last “Itheads really opened the organization. in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial toIn wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away onCounty Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west ofestablished the river,and then was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, “We don’t want to honor with Across the country, many college 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 just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contend at the level, Tasia Rohbock. apeople,” name someone whostate was a slave campuses, state institutions and anby Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea “Hopefully, the third need to was ask the community conversations withis million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asthe 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 budwormyears. damage. County objects to her 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 in FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen owner,” said Long. According to cient organizations are going through 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 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, the owner ofand land channel the deepest part the of Vickie Motley, parkat board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think something in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials that the the Bitterroot March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is lastaIt’s minute info so to give back toAugust the community, “We never know what to expect,” the top half, orisbecause above the district Hackett research, Audubon was well known aMRBA re-examination process regarding withdrawn in of vote 2020side Bitterroot Community has triedhave to dostated twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” the trustees Bitterroot Valley Community horses. She’s always been horse was one ofValley the top four bands from all over the valley, Mis- were 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 at the river on the northeast had channel. If you to develop ber, said 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 as a slave owner, and was very much influential people and how, or if, they The Corvallis Memorial Day Parade Grand Marshall, Donald Helmbrecht rides in College (BVCC) trustee andaccess without success. campaign, which because helped the unsure ofThe exactly how theshe College was.” However, there soula, Idaho and more. event is abut all share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot is especially passionate about getters. The officer is currently on leave neither the norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I officer, would also see aother problem 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 against the abolitionist movement. should be recognized moving forsecretary, 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 the customary Jeep. Photo by Kristin Kruse. asked bluegrass, during thisolder investigation, as iswake stanmunity members, were during single-microphone type event, with adraftWhen That check followed the horses. She why and he herloves husband, a ages 18 and in Wild bothinRavalli and called “Crosspurpose.” It harmed offers similar and Alliance for the grounds. The 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 She added that he was also fraudspeaking about the May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the18 topic of creating under that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 single stage. According toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire,be insects More photos on page Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming the See BIRDS, page 5 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 Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Hearts full ofrevisit love Stevi to refinancing bonds Hamilton plans removal of dead and dying trees
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting
New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task 104 years plus of service remembrance in valley
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 Local chapter of Audubon Spreading love Localtodraft horse rescue thriving Stevi return park land to county set for Saturday Society changes their name
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
Davis
forSenate SenateDist. Dist.#44 #44 www.braddavisforravallicounty.com for VISIT OUR SHOWROOM IN THE
SOUTHGATE To MALL Protect our493-0051 Heritage