Duane Zeiler was recently honored with the prestigious Community Service Award by the Florence Civic Club during a special gathering hosted by the Backyard Tap House.
This annual award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated years of dedicated service to the community. Duane, a 1985 graduate of Florence-Carlton High School, has spent decades building homes for families through his company, One Horse Construction, which is committed to providing quality housing at affordable prices.
Duane is widely known as someone you can count on to get the job done. When Florence High School needed a softball field, it was under Duane’s leadership that the
first girls’ softball team in 1997 finally had a place to practice and play.
The Zeiler family has become synonymous with turning visions into reality. Whether it’s the Hide Out Mountain children’s park, a baseball field, a soccer field, or a sand volleyball court, the Zeilers have been there to help bring those dreams to life. If a family in the Bitterroot Valley is in need, chances are a Zeiler is there to lend a hand.
The Zeiler family includes Duane’s wife Tara, parents, Will and Marie, his four siblings, his son Luke, three daughters, grandchildren and many nieces and nephews. Together, they’ve made service a family tradition. Duane has also mentored countless young
men and women on his construction sites, instilling core values such as honesty and integrity.
In addition to being a lifelong mentor and “life coach” to many in their twenties, Duane has also volunteered his time and energy as a high school coach, continuing to give back to the community in every way he can.
For anyone wanting more information about the Florence Civic Club, the club meets on the second Monday of each month at 12 noon at the Florence Fire Station.
Service Award. Photo courtesy Florence Civic Club.
West Nile Virus confrmed in Montana
State and local health ofcials confrmed the frst detections of West Nile virus (WNV) in Montana for summer 2025. WNV activity appears to be widespread across the state, and the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is urging all Montanans to take increased precautions against mosquito bites.
Four mosquito pools have tested positive for WNV, including three in Lewis and Clark County and one in Cascade County. Detection of WNV in mosquitoes is an early indicator that activity is increasing within the state, elevating the risk of human illness. Additionally, Sheridan, Custer, and Daniels Counties have each reported one confrmed case of WNV in horses, totaling three positive horses in Montana so far this season.
WNV can cause illness in humans after a bite from an infected Culex mosquito. The increased risk of transmission to humans is expected to continue through October, or as long as mosquitoes remain active in the state.
“Illness caused by WNV can vary
signifcantly in severity,” said DPHHS Vectorborne Disease Epidemiologist Devon Cozart. “Although some people may not experience any symptoms at all, many people experience the onset of fu-like symptoms such as body aches and fatigue that may persist for weeks to months. Severe, neurological cases of WNV also occur every year in Montana, which may lead to death or permanent disability like blindness or paralysis. Don’t take a chance; prioritize avoiding mosquito bites whenever possible.”
Currently, there is no vaccine or targeted medication for WNV in humans, aside from supportive care. Most people who become infected with WNV will be asymptomatic, but 1 in 5 experience mild symptoms, including headache, rash, body aches, joint pains, fatigue, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fatigue and body aches may persist for weeks following infection.
About 1 in 150 human infections result in severe disease, referred to as neuroinvasive West Nile. Neuroinvasive West Nile can cause neurological symptoms, including disorientation, stupor,
coma, paralysis, vision loss, and convulsions. WNV can be fatal or lead to longterm neurological complications. Horses can also be infected with WNV. Horse owners may contact their veterinarian to obtain an annual vaccine to protect against WNV.
Preventing mosquito bites is important while spending time outdoors in the summer, especially during dusk and dawn, which are peak feeding activity times for female Culex mosquitoes. Permethrin is an insect repellent that can be utilized to treat clothing and gear, including tents. The Environmental Protection Agency also maintains lists of approved insect repellents that can be applied directly to the skin.
Emptying standing water at least once per week is important to keep mosquitoes away from homes. For items such as rain barrels, apply a screen to the opening to restrict mosquito access.
For other mosquito bite prevention tips, check out the 4 Ds of mosquito bite prevention below.
The 4 Ds of Mosquito Bite Preven-
tion include:
• DEET: Use insect repellent containing efective ingredients such as DEET or picaridin. To verify the efectiveness of insect repellent, go to the EPA’s website: epa.gov/insect-repellents.
• Drain: Drain standing water around the house to prevent mosquito breeding.
• Dawn/Dusk: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk. Stay inside or take extra precautions to prevent mosquito bites during these times. If doors or windows are left open in the summer, make sure they’re ftted with screens to keep mosquitoes out of the house.
• Dress: When possible, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against bites.
Contact your local health department or visit https://dphhs.mt.gov/ publichealth/cdepi/diseases/WestNileVirus for more information about WNV protection and surveillance activities.
Roger DiBrito, at left, awards Duane Zeiler Florence Civic Club’s Community
Creamery Picnic 2025!
Parade “Theme” entry winners: Above, frst place winner Family Pharmacy, at right is the second place winner, and below is A2Z Personnel, the third place winner.
Photos courtesy Sean Doyle.
Above, the Greased Pig Races winners.
Above, Carter Brushia receives an award for creating the Creamery Picnic logo for 2025 from Sean Doyle. Photo courtesy Sean Doyle.
Above, the sunset on Friday night at the picnic. Photo by Victoria Howell.
Above, the Kid’s Parade winners. Photo by Darcy Hansen.
Above, Pot of Gold raffe sells out.
Above, the Creamery Picnic Cornhole Tournament. Photo courtesy Sean Doyle.
FFA members participate in Commodity Tour
The National FFA Organization plays a large role in the lives of students across the state of Montana. This program frst started in 1928 and has since spread across all 50 states and fve territories. Chartered in 1930, the Montana Association has a membership of over 6900 students, representing 111 chapters. The FFA Motto is “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve” and members practice this every day. Students have numerous opportunities to learn about potential careers, serve their communities, and develop skills that will last a lifetime. One special opportunity that took place recently was the Agriculture Commodity Tour. Students traveled by van over 2000 miles, visiting Idaho, Oregon and Washington, stopping at various locations along the way. The eight members of the State FFA Ofcer Team as well as the 3rd place Agronomy team from Joliet hit the road on July 7th, led by State Advisor Jim Rose and Joliet FFA Advisor Jodi Milton.
The frst stop of the trip was at Columbia Grain in Clarkston, Washington, where the group took a tour of their facility. Members found it interesting to see the transport of grain on such a large scale. As agriculturalists, it is important for us to understand what happens to our grain after it is harvested. The tour at Columbia Grain gave the tour participants a unique perspective and new respect for what goes on behind the scenes.
One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the Wheat Marketing Center in Portland, Oregon where longtime supporters of Montana FFA provided a better understanding for the grain market on a global scale and gave the
group an inside look at the diferent applications for wheat. While there, students witnessed some wheat related experiments, made tortillas, and experienced what takes place in the manufacturing of crackers.
According to Rose, “the best part of the trip is the opportunity for members to “see frst-hand
the magnitude of Montana agriculture on a global scale.” This trip provides unique opportunities for students to learn about the agriculture industry as well as potential careers. Very few people get the privilege to get a behind the scenes look at the many Ag businesses in the Pacifc Northwest and watch Montana commodities being transported out of our state to feed people all over the world.
Perhaps the students’ most talked about stop was made at Shaver Transportation in Portland. This family-owned business is one of just a couple that operate barges and tugboats on the Columbia River System. Additionally, the group spent about three hours touring United Grain in Vancouver, WA.
Finally, the group visited a cranberry farming operation, Ocean Spray Cranberry processing plant in Markham, WA, Bonneville Dam and Three Mile Canyon Farms which farms 93,000 acres and milks 37,000 head of cows twice a day. In addition to the agriculturally focused tours, the group also spent an afternoon at a beach in Oregon and hiked up to Multnomah Falls. For some, this was the frst time seeing the ocean.
This experience was generously sponsored by Columbia Grain.
Pictured L to R: Morgan Bisel – State Secretary from Corvallis, Claire Murnin – State President from Shepherd, Autumn Benson – State Parliamentarian from Corvallis, Weston Sondeno – State Sentinel from Big Timber, Cole Waldusky – State 1st Vice-president from Conrad, Kyona Yeager – State 2nd Vice-president from Fairfeld, Savannah Freitas – State Reporter from Dillon, and Chloe Evertz, Jillian Sessions and Katie Harris all from Joliet. Photo courtesy Montana FFA Association.
Rock Creek isn’t an old man’s stream
Everybody who fy fshes in Montana at least knows about Rock Creek.
Most of us who know about it have fshed there, or plan to.
My plans to spend more time on Rock Creek got waylaid several years ago and I wish they hadn’t. Today I’m re-upping those dreams, those plans are now again in the wishful thinking stage.
I just completed a two-night-three-day camping trip on Rock Creek where one of my purposes was to fsh with my young friend John Marrow. When I heard his family would be there it just naturally fell into place that I would join them.
by Chuck Stranahan
For one reason and another I hadn’t fshed Rock Creek in years. Jan and I had a memorable camping trip there in 2016, the year of the Roaring Lion fre near our home in the Bitterroot Valley. We remember the moose that wandered through camp, the photo Jan got of a nice-sized brown trout swimming out of the net, the spruce moth hatch and scoring with the Caddis Variant, and for me, a huge brown that turned the wrong way around a rock and headed downstream and broke me of.
I called my friend John Staats at the Rock Creek Fisherman’s Mercantile and learned that spruce moths were on again. My young friend John Marrow did well on Caddis Variants when we camped on the Bitterroot’s West Fork last year – ten fsh to hand and one that he nicknamed “Old Chomper” that broke him of twice.
I got a late start. The sunset drive up Rock Creek Road ended at half-past dark where John and two of his brothers met me and helped set up camp – in the dark.
The campground was tent-friendly, not another RV parking lot in the woods with manicured lawns and a campground host to keep order. No pavement. Pack your food where the bears won’t get into it, the signs say.
When I woke up the next morning there were camp chores before John and I had a chance to tie a couple Caddis Variants before we hit the river.
Our campground was a little less than half-
way up Rock Creek road; I was more familiar with the fshing above and below.
There is still a rustic feel to Rock Creek – the road in, the rugged wading and unspoiled scenery for long stretches along its banks, and a road that demands slow and careful travel to get just a few miles up or down the creek.
John was patient as we drove up and down the creek looking for places to fsh. He could handle the steep banks between us and promising water that I couldn’t.
When we found a spot I could manage, John was ready-to-go in an instant, and despite the clear sky, hot sun and sulking fsh, got four hits on his CV and landed a respectable brown trout.
The following day we found what might have been a better spot but the odds of weather and limited time were against us. John covered the rife as well as he could have. He was in his element, connected to the process and his surroundings in a way that fed his soul.
I watched, and didn’t fsh, and realized: This
old man can’t get around Rock Creek as well as he used to. I can’t scramble down the bank in places where the climb back out might have once taken my breath away for a few seconds. Today it takes all I have to get back out.
I learned that the time has come for me to leave those places for younger men – middle aged guys or young men John’s age.
I still plan to go back – soon – if only to explore and fnd those places where the banks aren’t too steep and once there, where I can handle the wading. I don’t need to go during the salmonfy hatch when the creek is roaring. I’m sure I can access just a few places without too much strain, places where, at given times of the season, I might fnd good hatches and feeding fsh.
I’ll keep returning to fsh those places for as long as I can, partially as a hard-headed pushback against the inevitable, but mostly just to celebrate the fact that I can.
And I will savor and rejoice in every moment of it. And when I do go back, I want to take John.
John Marrow fully engaged with his experience on Rock Creek. Photo by Chuck Stranahan.
SCULPTURE: festival raising money for permanent scarecrow
The “Keeper” will join two other public sculptures in town, including the Native American dancer on the corner of Main and Third and the bronze sculpture at Lange Park next to Ahava Cofee. Festival organizers want to place this one in Creamery Park, in the 200 block of Main next to Mission Bistro. The Scarecrow Festival Committee has already sought approval from the Stevensville Town Council to do so, and approval was granted at the June 12 town council meeting.
Creamery Park is considered a “hidden gem for Stevensville,” according to Dora Bradt, a Stevensville Scarecrow Festival Committee member. She thinks it will be the perfect place.
Placing the sculpture in Creamery Park also meant the committee did not need to go through the Montana Department of Transportation for approval. They would have needed approval if the statue was in a state highway right-of-way.
Even with approval, the committee still needs to raise the money for the statue. It’s going to cost about $12,000 for the statue to be built and placed where it is going to live. The artist has donated $1,000 towards the project
Even with that hefty price tag, the committee is optimistic. For Knapp, whose husband was the originator of the event, the sculpture means a lot more than just a remembrance of the festival. It also means the recognition of what she, and many others, love about the community of Stevensville. “This is an example of everybody being involved,” said Knapp., “I just like being part of a community like that.”
When asked about the scarecrows and why they decided upon a sculpture, Knapp said “Scarecrow is a word, but these are really creations.” She said they use the moniker to resonate with the season, but she described each one as a piece of art. They chose
the sculpture and decided to model it after a previous scarecrow as a way to mirror not only the festival, but to honor the creativity at the heart of the event.
The “Keeper” sculpture will be made from steel, copper and stainless steel, in order to give it a colorful look. The sculpture will require no maintenance, and in fact it is supposed to weather. The piece is designed with diferent materials that will tarnish in diferent ways, allowing her to change over time.
Laura Jean Newby, the artist that will be building the permanent scarecrow sculpture, spoke about the process. According to her, the piece will be welded together, over a frame. Each individual piece will be hand cut, and Newby will utilize several metals, which she will then heat with a torch in a process she calls “painting with fre.” The heating and cooling causes the metals to color in bright and interesting ways.
Newby is a self-taught metal artist, who said she has learned through a lot of trial and error. However, all that work has granted her a deep understanding of how metals can be altered to look a variety of ways. She said she prefers to work with steel over other metals because, “if there is an error, it can be fxed pretty easily,” and it is “more forgiving in that sense.” Even with that said, she is excited about the variety that will be included in this piece, including the glass bowl,
which she will also be making. Newby is especially excited for people to see how the sculpture will change and tarnish over the years, bringing out a greater variety in color and depth. “It’s going to be kinda cool to watch her change,” as she weathers over time, said Newby. The coppers will bring greens and blues, and the steel will bring rusty reds. The stainless will be coated in a way that will keep it shiny, so those elements stay present forever.
Working with the Scarecrow Festival team, Newby said they worked to get the piece to “symbolize harvest season, but without the bloom there is no harvest.” That is the inspiration behind her creation of the sculpture. Newby also has a special connection to Stevensville. She was a welder on various pipeline projects, and found herself in Stevensville after looking for a diferent welding career. It was there that she started her business, Laura Jean Welding and
Artistry LLc., and specifcally the art aspect of her business.
“Creating this sculpture for Stevensville kinda ties into my roots as an artist,” said Newby. She now lives in Connor with her husband, step-son and three dogs. She does commissioned welding and art projects. Interested parties can fnd information about Newby’s business on her website, laurajeanwelding.com
Interested parties looking to support the creation of the statue can donate to the project on the Scarecrow Festival website. There are a few options to donate, both to the festival itself, and the sculpture project, so parties should look carefully. Parties that want to send checks can send them to Project 59870, P.O. Box 8, Stevensville MT 59870 with “sculpture” in the memo. The frst 50 people to donate will get their name on the plaque. Information about that, and more, is available on the festival website, stevensvillescarecrowfestival.org.
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A past piece created by Laura Jean Newby, which looks similar to the planned design of the “Keeper of the Season” sculpture for Stevensville. Photo courtesy Laura Jean Newby.
Liberals parrot crooked media
It’s amazing how many readers of this newspaper actually send in the words of the liberal press, who are aficted with Trump Derangement Syndrome and sign their name to them. While reading them you feel the same hatred from the writer as you do from the crooked media. They have no real reason for hating Trump so they do what one of the writers did in the July 23rd edition of this paper. I will not use his name; I think he has been embarrassed enough already . In his very lengthy letter he listed 10 erroneous so-called “facts.” 1) He claims, as does MSNBC, that Medicare will be taken from needy Americans --WRONG -- only cheaters, non eligible people, like illegal aliens, will be thrown of. 2) SNAP will also be reviewed and those eligible will beneft and those that rob the system will be thrown of! 3) Trump’s fantastic tax reductions were so good in 2017 that even crooked Joe Biden kept them in efect during his term and in the BIG BEAUTIFUL BILL, recently passed, it was put in permanently! It helped all of America! 4) Regarding USAID, It was just giving money to anyone that asked and for some ridiculous things like housing chimpanzees or buying robotic fowers. Google USAID and ask what moronic items we are paying for. Many of the humanitarian, decent programs are kept. 5) It’s been long known that many, many government jobs are bogus, higher ups give out these jobs like they are candy. Some jobs serve no purpose but to either re-pay someone for a favor or to help relatives. Meaningful jobs will remain but waste has to go! 6) (This was the funniest of all) There is no need for a bloated Dept. of Education, states should handle it. We pour money into the Dept. and the test scores in most states are abysmal! Our schools are teaching woke, idiotic subjects instead of English, math and science! 7) In a 2019 World Wildlife Fund study, it was estimated that schools across the nation waste 530,000 tons of food each year! Google it. 8) Regarding the 19 Inspector Generals that were fred it’s very simple to explain. The letter writer gave us the answer in his diatribe. He said that Trump “put his cronies in charge.” Remember Biden chose his cronies for the purpose of hindering the Republicans while he was in charge. Don’t you think Trump should have the same right as Prez? Look at all the cronies that lied about Trump regarding the phony RUSSIA RUSSIA RUSSIA hoax and tried to keep Trump of the ballot like Comey, Brennan, and others. I could go on about this subject for hours but this letter is getting long. 9) This one is the biggest bag of excrement I ever saw in the hate letters to this paper! ICE is arresting only Blacks and brown people? Are you serious? Who do you think your guy Biden allowed to invade our country? Not too many Swedes or Newfoundlanders came across illegally! By the way, Tom Holman and his crew are keeping even you Trump haters safe – more on that at the end of this letter! And one of the best decisions was cutting gov’t funds to Democratic, liberal radio stations and networks! Most Americans do not want our taxes paying for the same propaganda that the liberals spew out daily! If they want to support that sorry party, let the Dems take it out of their pocketbooks and pay for it!
In closing I want to say I did see a letter written by a woman named Jane
Opinion
Lambert from Stevi and was happy to see not all in this area have been scammed by the Democrats! Lastly, if Trump did not do another thing while in ofce besides save us from the Biden led invasion of our borders and country, I would still be thrilled. Our country will sufer for years to come in crime, education, housing, health and much more! Biden was the worst Prez ever in our history!
Tony Primavera Stevensville
Furious about government lies
As most American citizens are aware, the Federal government, including many in Congress, as well as Supreme Court justices and the executive branch, has lied to the public. And I am furious over it.
Unfortunately, the Federal government, including all three branches, has never created a law prohibiting the government or its elected ofcials from lying to the public. However, our government has made strict laws preventing private citizens from lying to the government, for example: Federal law prohibits knowingly and willfully making false statements to the government. The statute addressing this is 18 U.S. Code § 1001. This law criminalizes specifc actions related to false statements in matters within the jurisdiction of the executive, legislative, or judicial branches of the US Government. Violations include penalties of imprisonment for up to fve years, or up to eight years in some instances, as well as a substantial fne. These charges are sometimes associated with other ofenses, such as perjury and obstruction of justice. Perjury is a separate federal ofense involving false statements made under oath, as covered by statutes such as 18 U.S. Code §§ 1621 and 1623.
The injustice and unfairness of these laws are extreme and pose a signifcant threat to the nation’s well-being. If a person lies to a federal court to cover up a crime they may have committed, such as attempting to import banned items, they may face fve years in prison for lying and a $ 20,000 fne. Plus another 15 years for committing the crime. While in prison, his wife may divorce him, he might lose his job and kids, and he may be beaten by guards and raped by prisoners.
However, if the government lies to the public, which allows elections to be stolen, or private lands to be confscated, or public health clinics are closed, and many people die, there is no consequence. And if the public offcial has taken a bribe from a lobbyist to do these things, he gets to keep the money.
Our justice system is so corrupt and disproportionate in its application of justice that it mocks and derides the very concept. Our presidents and congressmen, who are supposed to protect us, uphold the Constitution, and be honest representatives, can lie and then reap the rewards of their injustice, counting on the courts to protect them.
And since we no longer have a path to petition the government for a redress for its obvious grievances, we are no longer a democracy, but a kleptocracy, a government run by crooks, and their enforcers and a stupid and idiotic king who is a convicted criminal, a rapist and more than likely, a pedophile who deports American citizens to prisons overseas without cause. Mark Snider Hamilton
Authoritarian threat
My wife, Alene, and I spent a good part of our professional careers working in international schools around the world. I was the Director of seven schools and Alene was a teacher/administrator in nine schools. My wife is a native of Hamilton. I am from Brooklyn, New York. We met in Caracas, Venezuela more than 30 years ago. We married here in Hamilton, then returned to our jobs in Port of Spain, Trinidad to continue our careers, providing an American education to US government employees stationed overseas, other government and business dependents stationed in those countries, and local citizens of the host country. The countries we worked in were Venezuela (twice), Trinidad and Tobago, Pakistan, Myanmar(formerly Burma), Brazil (twice), Belarus, and the Republic of Georgia. In all but two of these countries (T&T and Brazil), the countries were run by authoritarian rulers or military dictators.
We have seen our share of what can happen when a country falls under the yolk of an authoritarian ruler. Citizens have no rights in these countries… only those granted by those in power. You are not able to travel freely. You are not able to move from job to job without permission. There are no political parties. Newspapers, television, and radio broadcasts have a one dimensional view, much as we are starting to see here with the defunding of NPR/PBS and actions of CBS TV. Everyone swears allegiance to those in charge. Prices for goods and services are set by the party. Our phones and computers were monitored. In some countries, like Myanmar, a military dictatorship, our phones were hacked and messages were deleted. In Belarus, local students were not allowed to attend the “American school” for fear of brainwashing! President Lukashenko of Belarus has been reelected several times with over 85% of the vote. He is known as “the last dictator of Europe”. We were in Lahore, Pakistan during the 9/11 attack in New York City. All Americans and other nationalities at the school were evacuated for fear of what the military junta might decide to do with us! These countries do not have any notion of “globalism”. The leaders are only interested in staying in power and becoming wealthy on
the backs of their citizens. I mention all this because I fear our country is going in a similar direction… and it will happen here before we know it! It is happening now!
The Executive branch (Trump) does whatever it wants. The Supreme Court upholds whatever the Executive branch wants. And the Legislative branch, on the Republican side, is controlled by a bunch of puppets looking for that one single smile from President Trump!
America is better than this!
Thomas Tunny Hamilton
Speak out for democracy
Since January 20, 2025, our federal government has been taken over by a group of very dangerous people, many of whom are pitifully unqualifed for their jobs. Many of the people in leadership roles throughout this current administration are dismantling the foundations of the government that has made our country the envy of the world for almost 250 years. In order to achieve this dismantling, this administration is breaking laws, and acting against the U.S. Constitution. This is happening on a daily basis and in plain sight. The U.S. Congress, including Senators Daines and Sheehy and Representative Zinke are doing nothing to stop this unconstitutional takeover of government. Norms of decency and ethics and constitutional rights are disregarded and are trampled upon. This is not acceptable. The hooligans in charge in this administration are trashing our government. We did not elect these people to behave in this way in our names. We must demand that our elected representatives take action to stop this authoritarian takeover of our beloved country. Call your representatives repeatedly. Write to them repeatedly. Demand that they take action to protect and defend the constitution as they have sworn to do. This is not the America we want to be. Change must happen soon or we will lose the country we have known and love.
Donald Gardner Corvallis
DENIED: conficting reports infuence decision
asible and presents undue hardship.
According to Planning Department Director Rob Livesay, the planning board got a lot of public comment that “by all means are important things to consider such as high fre hazard, roads, access and maintenance, emergency services, wildlife, water, property values, but as far as the Planning Board’s review, those are not in our ordinance, so it is outside our scope to consider those.”
“Again, I’m not saying those are not important things to consider and if there is an efort by people who want to revise the ordinance in the future to encompass those things, I’m happy to work with people on that,” said Livesay.
He said the 2023 application which was denied “lacked any evidence to meet the spacing requirement, period. They did not put forth much evidence at all showing that they tried to contact other landowners.” He said faced with a decision to deny it and after consultation with the county attorney, the applicant was given an option “and that’s when the subdivision variance procedure was used.”
He said the current application was “a lot more robust and contained a lot more analysis and information” so that rather than deny the application, it was decided to forward the application to the commissioners and let them take a hard look at the spacing exception and make their own determination.
Randy Stewart, a retired family doctor from Hamilton, submitted a report done by a group of concerned citizens that has been seeking drive-by and drop-call information that might justify the claim that there is a need for the new cell tower. They used iPhones to do in-vehicle tests and gathered information from 765 data points at 51 locations in a 1- to 2-mile radius around the proposed cell tower site. They found that T-Mobile dominates the other carriers, AT&T and Verizon, in terms of data speed in the area and 100% of the RSRP (voice call) readings were rated “Fair” to “Excellent” with no “Poor” and zero “no call” signals. They found no “dead spots” in the vicinity of the proposed tower but did fnd one in the heart of downtown Hamilton. The group also claimed that the informa tion submitted in terms of data in the area contained no actual data or cove rage statistics.
“By contrast, the abundant data presented in this study – from testing conducted by Hamilton residents, tra velling on Hamilton roads to collect it –clearly demonstrate the exact opposite to be true,” it states in the report.
They also presented a coverage map that T-Mobile uses when trying to
sell service to potential customers that agrees with the citizen study fndings.
The study ends with the note, “If you are willing to send a qualifed expert to conduct on-site testing rather than relying on remote simulations and providing no data, we welcome the opportunity to have our fndings challenged. Until then, we don’t believe you.”
According to a report submitted by the applicant, the proposed Owings Creek site on Black Bear Lane has an elevation that is 350-400 feet above that of downtown Hamilton, while the Grubstake Road site is some 1600 feet above town, meaning coverage from this site would signifcantly overlap the coverage of the two existing base stations in Hamilton, as well as sites farther north and south along US 93. They claim that they explored the option of antenna downtilt from the Grubstake site and found the option unhelpful.
The map included in the report shows data collected from T-Mobile customers’ phones as they traveled in the Hamilton area. This data shows the customers’ real world experience, making it an accurate measure of T-Mobile’s coverage. Most data points west of the river can be seen to indicate poor coverage.
Glenda Wiles, a resident in the area and former county commission administrator, also raised the issue of potential violations of the public’s constitutional right to know and participate in government decisions by their failure to provide answers to her Freedom of Information Act requests about communications between county personnel and the applicant. She stated that she was persuaded by Commissioner Greg Chilcott to withdraw her frst FOIA request due to concerns about the county being sued and that her subsequent second submittal of a FOIA for the same information has gone unanswered.
Commissioner Burrows said that the issue for the commissioners comes down to two considerations, the issue of co-location at an existing tower
Commission Chair Dan Huls said that he was in agreement with Burrows over the hardship issue.
Commissioner Chilcott said that he would like to hear a response from the applicant.
Meridee Pabst, representative for Vertical Bridge, objected to the last minute submission of technical data that they had no time to review and in response to claims about the company not presenting any data said that “there was no legal requirement that any hard data be provided,” and that the coverage maps submitted were customarily used and done by qualifed engineers, unlike the citizen report.
Dave Gerling, T-Mobile’s radio frequency engineer, stated that the citizen study only tested for downlink capacity from outdoors while the company was interested in uplink capacity as well and had to consider both. He said they were also interested in “in-building” availability which was not tested in the citizen report. He said the actual customer data could not be shared due to privacy laws.
Commissioner Burrows asked if the company used a diferent map to sell stuf to folks than the map to build cell towers.
“Yes, and every carrier does,” said Gerling.
“That’s wrong,” said Burrows. “I would do that if I was selling cell phone plans maybe, but when I look at your T-Mobile map it shows 5G Ultra capacity on the entire West Side.”
“I can’t comment on that,” said Gerling. “I’m just here to comment on what evidence I provided.”
Pabst also stated that the company was concerned about cell coverage in buildings, not just in vehicles, and reiterated the claims in the engineer reviews that the cell tower located at the Grubstake was too high in elevation on the mountain side to provide the service they were looking to provide. She also noted that denying personal wireless service was a violation of federal law.
She said that the citizen memorandum in opposition is riddled with errors, misleading and improper claims, and should be disregarded altogether.
“Then there is also the question of prohibiting wireless service,” said Pabst. “Even if local denial of a project is supported by local code and supported by substantial evidence, it could still not withstand review under federal law. The Telecom Act bars denials if there is evidence of a signifcant gap and the applicant has shown that the proposal is the least intrusive means.”
Burrows asked if anything prevented T-Mobile from purchasing property.
“There is no prohibition on that but I have never seen that as a standard,” Pabst responded. “The standard is, ‘is it leasable?’”
“But that standard is a business model for T-Mobile and not any sort of regulation,” said Burrows.
“Well that’s the standard that’s applied when a federal court looks at the decision,” Pabst responded.
“Just because it doesn’t meet your business model, I don’t see how you can call that a hardship,” said Burrows. “What it comes down to is, do we believe that we are prohibiting personal wireless services by denying this cell tower location.”
Commissioner Chilcott referenced the map submitted by T-Mobile showing a gap in service.
Burrows said he also looked at the map on the company’s website showing good coverage.
“One of the maps is wrong, so there is conficting data here,” said Burrows. “So I guess I’m proposing a fnding that personal wireless service is not prohibited by denial of the application.”
In the end the commissioners decided that it may be unfeasible to co-locate the system on existing towers, however, there is no unique hardship because it has not been proven that there are no other alternatives.
The vote to deny the application was unanimous.
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Sabres Soccer club begins new era
The Sabres Soccer Club was founded in 1991 and is one of the oldest youth soccer programs in the state of Montana. Bitterroot soccer legend Ralph Serrette was the driving force behind the club for most of this time. Serrette passed away in the fall of 2024 - this was a massive blow to the soccer community in the Bitterroot Valley and the state of Montana. But, more specifically, his passing left the future of the Sabres Soccer Club in limbo heading into the 2025 spring and summer club soccer season.
Coming together
Over the last year, a dedicated group from the Bitterroot soccer community stepped in to keep the club going. With the 2025 spring and summer club soccer season now over, the Sabres leadership can reflect on the lessons they learned from this year, so they can move forward as an organized and powerful force to champion affordable, competitive youth soccer in the Bitterroot Valley.
Accomplishing all of this wasn’t easy.
“Ralph was a one man show and pretty much handled everything for the club,” said Sabres board member Cathi Cook. “At the beginning of the season we came together as a board and had to figure everything out. There hadn’t been a working board for a while, Ralph just did everything, so we had to work from the ground up to figure out what needed to be done, and who would do it.”
A board was created from the local Bitterroot soccer community. Renee Endicott had helped Ralph with club registration in the past and became board president. Other board members include CJ Clark, Eric Depee, Dave Gross, Cathi Cook and Tracy Montague.
“As a group we all put on different hats and were able to get it all under control,” said Endicott. “We didn’t want the club to lose a beat. Sometimes things like this happen, and an organization will lose ground. But we wanted to make sure we kept it going to continue to provide affordable soccer in the valley.”
2025 season
The Sabres had six teams in the 2025 spring and summer season: U19 boys, U17 boys, U17 girls, U15 boys, U14 coed, and U12 coed. In total, 108 players were in the Sabres program this year, with members from all over the Bitterroot Valley, Missoula, and Frenchtown. The club also has plans to have a U10 Academy team, which will help kids transition between recreational soccer and club soccer.
The Sabres had a very successful season in terms of participation, but they also thrived on
the pitch. The U19 boys team won the competitive Intermountain Cup in Missoula, the U12 coed team took 2nd at the Montana Showcase in Helena, and throughout the season the Sabres fielded competitive teams.
Affordable option
One of the major goals for the Sabres board is to provide an affordable option for soccer families. As many sports parents know, participating in travel sports can be expensive.
The cost to play for the Sabres this season was $325 per player. This is low compared to other local soccer clubs, which can cost up to $1700 to register for a travel team.
“One of the reasons we can keep the cost down is that all of us on the board are volunteers, and we have a dedicated group of volunteers and parents who help out as well,” said Endicott. “We have been able to get experienced volunteer coaches. If the club had to hire coaches and directors, then our costs would go up. We are lucky.”
Endicott continued, “It’s very important to us to keep the cost of Sabres soccer low. Not everyone can afford to pay the high prices for travel
sports. We want to make sure to offer the community a very affordable option.”
The group also continued their firework stand fundraiser this year, the proceeds of which go toward the UK International Camps, which are held in August.
“With the money raised from the fireworks stands, every Sabres player gets to participate in a four and a half day camp for free,” said Endicott. “This is another added benefit of playing for the Sabres.”
Looking forward
“Now that the season is over, we can step back and assess what we did and how we move forward in the best way,” said Cook. “We want to thank everyone who helped out and participated this year, and we’re excited to continue offering affordable soccer for the valley. We’re open to everyone and try not to have a lot of hoops to jump through to register. It’s all about building relationships, building bonds, and bringing kids and families together.”
To learn more about the Sabres Soccer Club, go to sabresfc.org or their facebook page at facebook.com/SabresSoccerClub.
Red Sox state runner up, on to regionals
The Bitterroot Red Sox took second place at the 2025 Class A State Tournament held in Conrad July 30-August 3. The Red Sox lost to the Bozeman Bucs 2-1 in the championship game on Sunday, August 3.
With the runner up fnish, the Red Sox move on to the 2025 Northwest Class A Regional Tournament in Burley, Idaho on August 7-10. The Red Sox play the Wasilla Road Warriors from Alaska on August 7 at 1 p.m.
At the Class A State Tournament in Conrad, the Red Sox defeated the Miles City Mavericks 6-0 in their opening game, then they defeated the Vauxhall Spurs 12-2. Next they lost to the Bozeman Bucs 3-0, then they defeated the Gallatin Valley Outlaws 6-4. Finally, the Red Sox lost 2-1 to the Bozeman Bucs again in the championship game.
Red Sox 10, Miles City Mavericks 0
On Wednesday, July 30, the Red Sox defeated Miles City 10-0 in fve innings. Red Sox pitcher Cash
Lawrence got the win, striking out fve batters and only allowing two hits. At the plate for the Red Sox, Reese Earp went 3 for 3 with 2 RBIs, Boedy Tadvick went 2 for 2 and scored 2 runs, and Hunter Harrness went 1 for 3, scored a run and had an RBI.
Red Sox 12, Vauxhall Spurs 2
On Thursday, July 31, the Red Sox defeated the Vauxhall (Alberta) Spurs 12-2 in fve innings. Red Sox pitcher Cash Lawrence got the win. At the plate for the Red Sox, Jude Widmer went 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs, Boedy Tadvick went 1 for 3 and had 2 RBIs, and Lawrence and Jackson Lubke each scored 3 runs.
Red Sox 0, Bozeman Bucs 3
On Friday, August 1, the Red Sox were defeated by the Bozeman Bucs 3-0. The pitching was strong for both teams as there were only fve total hits in the game. Red Sox pitcher Jackson Lubke struck
2nd
at
regionals
A
August
out nine batters, but gave up three runs in the 5th inning. Boedy Tadvick’s double was the only hit for the Red Sox.
Red Sox 6, Gallatin Valley Outlaws 4
On Saturday, August 2, the Red Sox defeated the Gallatin Valley Outlaws 6-4. The Red Sox scored two runs in the 6th inning to take a 6-1 lead, then held on in the bottom of the 7th inning to get the 6-4 victory. The Red Sox made the most of their chances, scoring six runs on three hits. For the Red Sox, Brady Demoss had 2 RBIs and scored a run, and Jude Widmer went 1 for 2 and scored 2 runs.
Red Sox 1, Bozeman Bucs 2
In the championship game on Sunday, August 3, the Red Sox were defeated by the Bozeman Bucs 2-1. The Red Sox got seven hits to the Bucs’ four, but were only able to get one run. Red Sox pitcher Jude Widmer pitched the whole game and gave up two runs of four hits. At the plate for the Red Sox, Widmer went 2 for 2 and scored a run, and Brady DeMoss went 1 for 3 and had an RBI.
Bucs end season at state
The Bitterroot Bucs fnished another successful season at the Class A State Tournament in Conrad on July 30-August 3. The Bucs lost their opening game to the Laurel Dodgers 10-15, then defeated the Tri-County Cardinals 12-1, and, fnally, they lost to the Vauxhall Spurs 2-9 to end their season.
Bucs 10, Laurel Dodgers 15
In their opening game on Wednesday, July 30, the Bucs lost to the Laurel Dodgers 10-15 in a slugfest. For the Bucs, Wes Potter was magical, going 4 for 4, scoring 2 runs, and hitting 2 RBIs. McCoy Endres had 4 RBIs and scored 2 runs, Chase Wagner went 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs, and Joey Wheeler hit a solo home run.
Bucs 12, Tri-County Cardinals 1
In their second game on Thursday, July 31, the Bucs defeated the Tri-County Cardinals 12-1. Bucs pitcher Isaiah Testerman got the win, allowing only two hits. Testerman also had 2 RBIs at the plate. For the Bucs, Joey Wheeler went 1 for 2 with 4 RBIs, Wes Potter went 2 for 2 with an RBI, and McCoy Endres went 1 for 3 and had 2 RBIs.
Bucs 2, Vauxhall Spurs 9
On Friday, August 1, the Bucs lost to the Vauxhall Spurs 2-9. At the plate for the Bucs, Drew Wagner went 1 for 3 with an RBI, Chase Wagner went 1 for 3 with an RBI, and Cole Germane went 1 for 3 and scored a run.
The Sabres Soccer Club’s U12 coed team took 2nd place at the Montana Showcase in Helena earlier this summer. The Sabres are going strong with a new board in 2025. Photo courtesy of Cathi Cook.
Bitterroot Red Sox players Reese Earp, Boedy Tadvick and Jude Widmer (L to R) running in step at the State tournament.
The Red Sox took
place
the 2025 Class
State Tournament in Conrad on August 3 and are headed to the Northwest
in Burley, Idaho on
7. Photo by Hope Earp.
Sports
Lawrence honors Play Like Robert Foundation
Cash Lawrence of Hamilton won the 2025 Gatorade Montana Baseball Player of the Year award. As part of the award, Lawrence got to choose a local organization to receive a $1000 grant in his name. Lawrence chose to award his grant to the Play Like Robert Foundation to help them accomplish their mission of connecting people through learning, play, and the courage to try.
Lawrence presented the check to the Leonardi family during the opening ceremonies of the Bitterroot Red Sox versus Bitterroot Bucs baseball game on July 19, 2025. Robert’s mother, Alyce Leonardi, threw out the opening pitch at the game, and kids ran the bases with the players in between games. “It was a beautiful evening to celebrate Cash, baseball, and Robert’s spirit,” said Alyce Leonardi.
All 610 Gatorade State Player of the Year recipients are awarded a $1,000 grant to donate to a social impact partner. To date, the Gatorade Player of the Year program has provided more than $5.6 million in grants to winners across more than 2,000 organizations.
“Cash Lawrence’s mother, Crystal, contacted me and explained how Cash chose the Play Like Robert Foundation to receive the $1,000 grant. I was ecstatic,” said Leonardi. “We were so thankful and pleased that Robert’s spirit and memory continue to touch the members of our community.”
Gatorade Player of the Year winners showcase the power of sport, touting an all-star group of alumni that includes Peyton Manning, Jayson Tatum, Mallory Swanson and Paige Bueckers. To learn more about the program, visit playeroft -
heyear.gatorade.com.
“I chose this foundation because it has been in my life for a good bit of time and the grant would allow them to continue providing for youth sports,” said Cash Lawrence.
“Youth involved in sports have seen significant improvements in physical and mental health, academic performance and future career success,” said Leonardi. “We
at Play Like Robert Foundation are committed to helping youth in the Bitterroot Valley and throughout Montana reap these benefits.”
Last year, Corvallis’s Olivia Lewis won the 2024 Gatorade Montana Girls Track & Field Player of the Year award. Lewis also chose to give her grant to the Play Like Robert Foundation.
“We are so lucky to have two kids in two years donate to the foundation and to win Gatorade player of the year,” said Leonardi. In 2024, the Play Like Robert Foundation gave away $50,000 to local organizations who impact youth and their next project is dedicated to building safe pedestrian and biking paths throughout Hamilton. To learn more, visit www. playlikerobert.org.
Hamilton’s Cash Lawrence awards a $1000 grant to the Leonardi family for the Play Like Robert Foundation on July 19th. Lawrence won the 2025 Gatorade Montana Baseball Player of the Year award. As part of the award, Lawrence got to donate $1000 to a local charity. Photo by Hope Earp.
Opi Fuli
Opi Fuli II, 49 of Salt Lake City, Utah passed away July 29, 2025 at Monument Health Murray Creek in Salt Lake City, UT.
Opi was born January 6, 1976 in San Diego, California the son of Opi Fuli and Claudette Settlemire. He graduated from Victor High School in Victor, Montana and later attended the Missoula Vo-Tech.
Opi was employed as a security guard for 16 years at a Senior Residential Community in Mesa, Arizona. He also worked security in vari -
Monica Blue
Monica Johansson Grainger Blue, 78, of Hamilton, passed away April 28, 2025 at her home in Hamilton.
Monica was born August 28, 1946 in Katarina, Sweden to Lars Johansson and Majken Henriksson. She went to work for Volvo at age 16 in Stockholm, Sweden and on December 27, 1964 she transferred to the USA at age 18.
She met Carl Duane Grainger and got married in 1966. She went to pet grooming school and became a Master Groomer while Carl worked for a prominent printing company. The family moved to Carl’s home state of Montana. They chose Hamilton and Monica started her grooming business, Monica’s Doggie Barber. She raised and showed Toy and Miniature Poodles as well as Great Danes. Several years later she decided to raise Dobermans
ous locations in Hamilton, MT. He was a member of the SPFPA Local #5 Union, the Bitterroot 8 Ballers and the Hamilton Eagles Lodge.
Opi was preceded in death by his father, Opi Fuli, and a brother-in-law, Ken Jones.
He is survived by his mother, Claudette Hoffmann of Victor, MT; sisters, Vai R. Fuli of NV., Alia Fuli of NV., Jean Jones of MD and Catherine Matthews of NV; nephews, Lance Ballard of AZ, Dakota Jones of MD and Mason and Tristan Van Kirk of NV; nieces, Precious Henry of PA and
instead, and she started Crestline Dobermans. She had many American and Canadian Champions.
She was a loving mother who loved to go camping, ride horses, show dogs, groom dogs, and loved meeting people. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew and loved her.
Monica is survived by her daughter, Veronica (Marvin) Weisbeck; son Brian Grainger; grandchildren Christopher Grainger, Shandarra Mansfeld and Jefrey Grainger; two great grandchildren; and a brother in Sweden.
No public services are planned. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.
com In lieu of fowers the family suggests memorials to the Bitterroot Humane Association, P.O. Box 57, Hamilton, MT 59840.
Evelyn ‘Ev’ Dirkson
Evelyn “Ev” Ruth Dirkson, age 94, of Corvallis, MT, died peacefully on Friday, July 25, 2025, while in the care of Hope Hospice Center of Missoula, MT. She was born Evelyn Ruth Cooper on March 26, 1931, in Seattle, WA, the daughter of Irvin Samuel Cooper and Helen Marguite Cooper. Ev grew up in the greater Seattle area with
her brother, George and two sisters, Marilyn and Leona. Though she did not graduate with her class, Ev achieved her high school diploma at the age of 37, the same year her son graduated from high school. Ev married Arthur Wilken Kellenberger at the tender age of 17 and resided in the greater Seattle area where she was a stay-at-home Mom for their three children. Ev remarried several years later to Robert George Moore and resided on Whidbey Island in Washington state where she enjoyed long walks on the beach and especially her church community. Ev also enjoyed her work in banking for many years on Whidbey Island. Ev had a deep desire to help others especially in the field of depression. She used her own personal experience to reach out to others as a caring person by offering talks to small groups and meeting one-on-one with many over the phone or a cup of coffee. She began a weekly depression group about hope all the while sharing her love of Jesus. Ev was recognized for her work and was awarded “The Hometown Hero” award. After her husband died of cancer she met the love of her life, Douglas H. Dirkson. Together they completed each other and eventually settled in Corvallis, MT. Ev’s happiest times in her life were spent with Doug. They enjoyed camping in Yellowstone, her most favorite place on earth, where she would fish while Doug painted side-by-side. They shared many long trips witnessing the beautiful scenery and wildlife God created. Ev had a deep, abiding love of God and was a woman of great faith. She started women’s
Keely Palson of NV. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, August 12, 2025 at the First Presbyterian Church in Hamilton. Private urn placement will take place at the Victor Cemetery in Victor, MT. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com
In lieu of flowers the family suggests memorials in Opi’s name to the Daly-Leach Chapel fund for low income families, 1010 W. Main St. Hamilton, MT 59840.
bible study classes at every church community in which she made her church home and was active in the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League in various capacities. She truly loved her sisters in faith who were a vital part of her life. Ev was an active participant throughout Doug’s art career offering encouragement and critique as well as praise and support. The members of Doug’s art community loved Ev and looked forward to her visits at art shows and the chocolate chip cookies she made for every show. Everyone was a recipient of Ev’s dazzling smile that would light up any room she entered. Ev was truly loved by all and will be greatly missed.
Evelyn is survived by her husband, Douglas of Corvallis, a son, Irvin and wife, Cheryl Kellenberger; daughters Joyce Kellenberger of Hamilton and Jane McLean of Missoula; stepson Arlan and wife Sarah Dirkson of Montreal, Canada, and stepdaughter Sasha and her husband Conan Bower of Seattle, WA, one grandson and two granddaughters; sister Leona and her husband Nels Anderson of Stevensville, and several nieces and nephews.
A Memorial Service will be held at Grace Lutheran Church in Hamilton on Thursday, August 7th, at 10:30 a.m. A luncheon will be served by the LWML of Grace Lutheran Church following the service. All are welcome.
Private family interment will take place at Evergreen Cemetery in Seattle, WA. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
John Stroud
Sat. August 23, 2025 Open House 1 - 3 PM at Stevensville Senior Center 100 Mission Street
Cookies & Beverages
Bring pictures & stories to share with family & friends. More info, call Linda Yoder: (406) 777 - 7000.
John Stroud, 80, was born December 4, 1944 and his life sadly ended July 26, 2025. John was a loving father and a man of history. He has three sons, Jeremy who is with him in heaven. Carrying on are Johnny and Elliott Stroud. His love for the bitterroot state flower had him do several speeches on the subject. He hoped that our history will last forever, including this beautiful flower. Just like the ones we’ve lost, we don’t know what we have until it’s gone. John’s funeral will take
place at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Stevensville on August 11,
Jason Stuart Larkin
Jason Stuart Larkin, 51, of Stevensville passed away Saturday, July 26, 2025 in an accident at home. He was born April 5, 1974 to Stuart and Glenda Larkin in Missoula, Montana.
Jason was raised in the Missoula area until the family moved to Lolo in 1984. He attended grade school in Lolo and high school at Florence Carlton, graduating in 1993. It was in the hallway of Florence Carlton High School that he met his future wife, Shaela Shorten, in 1991. They married in July of 1994 and had two beautiful daughters, Brookelynn and Aubrey.
After graduation, Jason worked at J & J Logging, McKinley Construction, and Ottman Forestry while they were living in the Bitterroot Valley. The family moved to North Dakota in 2011 to work in the oil felds. The best part of those fve years was bringing Dakota Brekke into the family. When the family returned home to Florence, Jason went to work at Price Contracting. It was shortly after their return that Chandler Mendenhall completed the Larkin family. As the proudest dad in the Valley, Jason and the boys started Triple L Excavation and Trucking in 2020. It was then that all three families took to the road, supporting each other on various job sites and enjoying the great outdoors in Montana and Idaho.
Jason was granted his favorite title in the fall of 2022 when he became Papa to Ridge Stuart Larkin
and Ryder Wray Larkin.
Throughout his life, Jason was an avid outdoorsman, hunting, fshing, camping, exploring the country on motorcycles and in side-by-sides but his greatest love was snowmobiling with family and friends. There are more stories of his adventures than can ever be told in one lifetime but when asked, any of his family would be happy to share a few.
On April 24, 2017, Jason committed to a life of sobriety, a commitment he stayed true to for himself and his family and one that improved his life in such a way that his only regret was that he didn’t commit to it sooner. Although Jason was proud of this commitment, it was nothing in comparison to the pride his family had in him. Jason and the family celebrated the eight-year anniversary of his sobriety on April 24, 2025.
Jason is survived by his loving wife Shaela, his amazing children Brookelynn and Dakota and Aubrey and Chandler, his handsome grandsons Ridge and Ryder, his father Stuart Larkin and wife Patricia, other parents Bill and Kathy Shorten, siblings Staci Jenkins, Betsi LaMoure (Charles), and Jason Shorten (Sheri), Xavier Kneedler-Shorten (StingRay), four nieces, two nephews, one great niece, and two great nephews.
Jason was preceded in death by his mother, Glenda Elaine Larkin, grandparents Bill and Elaine
Donna Lee Wulfemeyer
January 28, 1947 – July 30, 2025
Donna Lee Wulfemeyer, a devoted mother, grandmother, and faithful servant of Christ, passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, from complications related to liver failure. She was 78 years old.
Born on January 28, 1947, in National City, California, Donna was raised in an Italian-Irish family that valued hard work, discipline, and faith. As a child, she worked alongside her father at his local laundromat, where she developed a strong sense of
responsibility and pride in doing things thoroughly and well—traits that would defne her for the rest of her life.
A true California girl, Donna had a deep love for the ocean and spent her youth as a beachgoer and surfer. She embraced the coastal lifestyle, often seen catching waves or relaxing by the sea, and carried the sun-soaked joy of her early years into adulthood. That youthful spirit—free, determined, and full of energy—never left her.
Donna spent much of her adult life in Escondido, CA, where she worked with dedication and pride at Pacifc Bell Telephone Company. Thorough, loyal, and exceptionally organized, she brought her Type A personality and strong sense of purpose to everything she did.
Later in life, Donna moved to Hamilton, Montana to join her daughter, Elke and son in law Troy Olbricht… a place she came to love deeply and where she would plant lasting roots. It was in Hamilton that she continued her journey of faith and service, loving her grandchildren and growing deeper in her relationship with God.
A born-again Christian with a passionate heart for ministry, Donna poured her energy into church outreach and Christian education. She helped organize and administer Vacation Bible School (VBS) programs and was often found handing out Bible verse cards, eager to share God’s word with anyone
Charles ‘Bud’ Turley
Charles “Bud” Edward Turley, 93, of Hamilton, MT, passed away Monday, July 28th, 2025, at his home.
He was born October 20, 1931, in Roseville, Illinois, the son of Lawrence Elswick and Lillian Margaret (Ross) Turley. Charles married Donna Jean Cutlif on June 30th, 1951, and together they just celebrated their 74th wedding anniversary.
He is survived by his wife of Hamilton; their three children: Donna Sims of Colmesneil, Texas, Linda (Carl) Ande of Monmouth, Illinois, and Tamara (Ben) Miner of Kalispell, Montana; six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren, and nine great-great-grandchildren.
Charles was preceded in death by his parents, his sister (Margaret Yeakey), two brothers (Raymond and Donald Turley), one son-in-law, and one great-grandson.
Sharon Rees
Sharon Rees passed away at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at age 79.
Sharon was born on August 10, 1945, in Peck, Idaho, a little town between Orofino and Lewiston. She was born right on the kitchen table, being the eldest child of parents Ida Forest and Arthur Pamin.
Sharon worked at St. Patrick Hospital as a candy striper back in the day, comparative to CNA work now. She met her husband, Verlin Rees, there. They married in May of 1960 and the following year, they started their family. They had two children, Valerie Jones and Valance Rees. Later in life, they finished raising Heather Rees.
Sharon’s job professions included being a cook and a manager. She managed a SuperSave and was president of the union in Missoula. She later worked as a cook at the University of Montana in the cafeteria until going on disability.
Sharon lived a simple life enjoying her children, and later, her grandchildren.
Sharon’s hobbies included crocheting, stencil painting, camping, and watching her favorite TV
He was born and raised in Roseville, Illinois, and graduated from Roseville High School.
Charles served in the Army from 1952 to 1960. He was the co-owner of Turley and Sons Service Station with his brother and father. In 1980, Charles and Donna moved to Hamilton where he went to work for Al’s Car Care.
He was a member of the Roseville Masonic Lodge and was a Past Master. He enjoyed hiking, camping, and 4-wheeling in the mountains with his family and friends.
Condolences may be left for the family at www. dalyleachchapel.com.
A memorial service is planned for Monday, August 18th, 2025, at Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton at 1:00 p.m. The service will start with Military Honors, followed by the Masonic Rites. All friends and family are welcome.
shows.
Sharon helped with her church, SDA, for many years in many positions: funeral planning, Deaconess prayer meeting groups, and social event planning.
She helped raise her grandbabies and loved her family. She had many stories to share and was truly loved by all who knew her.
Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Verlin Rees; parents, Ida and Arthur Pamin; brother-in-law, Carl Jordan; brother, Jim Dandorf; Robert Rees Sr.; Emma Bidlake; and sister, Dorothy Woods.
She is survived by her children, Valance Rees (Ruth), Valerie Jones (William), and Heather Rees; brothers, Gary Pamin (Linda) and Steve Bidlake (Betty); brother-in-law, Robert Rees (Maxine); sister-in-law, Nancy Jordan; grandkids, Jessica, Colby, Kylend, Kayden, Kenya, and Keanna; and many great-grandkids, nephews, and nieces.
A graveside service will be held on
Hadley, Harold and Zona Larkin, Marvin D. Hamilton, and Uncle David Larkin.
Jason’s Celebration of Life was Friday, August 1 at the Ambrose Creek Community Center in Stevensville. A luncheon followed the celebration at the community center.
The family suggests that in lieu of fowers, donations can be made to the Jason Larkin Memorial at Clearwater Credit Union. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.
she met. Her faith wasn’t just private—it was lived out loud and with intention.
She also embraced technology as a powerful tool for evangelism. In her later years, she programmed Christian computer games and created several online devotional websites, extending her ministry to people far beyond her local community. Her creativity and drive to spread the Gospel were well ahead of her time.
Donna was a devoted grandmother to Emma Windauer and Zachary Olbricht. She passed on not just life skills—like teaching Emma how to ski—but also a deep love of Scripture, a strong work ethic, and a no-nonsense approach to life that was uniquely her own.
Donna will be remembered for her unwavering faith, sharp mind, deep convictions, and compassionate heart. Her love for the Lord defned her life, and her legacy will continue to shine through those she mentored, raised, and inspired.
She is survived by her daughter, Elke; her grandchildren, Emma and Zachary; her sister, Deena Boyd; and her brother, David Dorsey. She also leaves behind the many lives she touched through her acts of service, outreach, and faith.
A celebration of life was held Sunday, August 3rd at The Place Church, 273 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton MT. Condolences may be left for the family at www. dalyleachchapel.com
Sunday, August 10th, 2025, at Sunnyside Cemetery in Stevensville, starting at 2:00 p.m. and there will be a reception to follow at the Ambrose Creek Community Center.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com. The family requests memorials be made to local food banks or humane societies in lieu of flowers.
Death Notices
Gregory Allen Moore
Stevensville - Gregory Allen Moore, 57, passed away at his home surrounded by his family on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Whitesitt Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Bell Celebration of Life
Judy Ann Bell Celebration of Life potluck and hot dog roast will be held at Larry Creek campground, August 24th at 3:00 p.m. Bring a chair, your favorite Judy stories, photos, and drink of choice. Contact Lori to RSVP, 406-880-4413.
Ag research center to hold feld day
Every feld season is an opportunity for new discoveries at the MSU Western Agricultural Research Center (WARC). MSU-WARC is the main fruit and vegetable research center in Montana. And once a year, MSU-WARC invites the public to dinner and a farm tour where the researchers and collaborators share information about the research projects. The 2025 Field Day is Thursday, August 14th from 4:308:30pm.
Field Day is a chance to meet the scientists and students working to improve agricultural practices, to learn the methods they’re using and how you can apply those practices on your farm or home garden. The evening includes a farm tour and free dinner, with burgers from Bar MW local beef, catered salads from Mineshaft Pasty Co using local ingredients and special ice cream made with honeyberries and black currants made by Big Dipper Ice Cream.
A wide variety of crops are studied every year to address questions and concerns from farmers, producers and homeowners funded largely by USDA Specialty Crop Block grants. From identifying efective weed management practices that cut labor cost on organic vegetable farms to pioneering research on Haskap/ AKA honeyberries, MSU-WARC is focused on answers that address the needs of MT growers.
“Western Ag Research Center collaborates with Montana fruit growers to develop innovative research-based strategies for fruit production. The work that WARC does diversifes Montana agriculture. The feld day ofers a unique opportunity to gain knowledge and perspective on these crops in Montana,” states Christie Walsh, chair of the Montana Berry Growers Association.
Some of the research projects this season include:
• Organic weed management for vegetable growers - evaluating the potential of integrating, labor-saving, mechanical weeding tools and other practices and assessing when weed control has the most return on the labor invested in cabbage, carrots, onions, and garlic.
• Assisting onion and garlic growers by improving production practices, identifying the best performing, early maturing, and disease resistant cultivars, and exploring the potential for seed production in garlic, onions and shallots
• Shelf-life for fresh market Honeyberry and other fruits - determining how long growers can expect high quality fruit after harvest.
• Fruit processing and value-added productsoptimizing means of processing fruits to create appealing, cost-efective value-added products
• Cowpeas – MSU-WARC is working the researchers across to state to evaluate the potential of this pea-relative as a crop in Montana. Cowpeas may also provide pest management benefts as they support many small wasps that attack crop pests.
• Improving efciency and quality Honeyberry harvest- improve understanding of berry attachment, how this changes as berries mature and how it difers among Honeyberry varieties. We’re using this information to fgure out when and how to harvest and when berries may be at risk of getting knocked of the bush by high winds.
• Grapes – Improve vineyard management practices to increase grape yields, quality, and vine cold-hardiness. Identify grape varieties that are well adapted to MT climates. We’ll showcase several ways to train grapes.
• Apples- Recent research has focused on irrigation and pest management. We’ll review how and when to water fruit trees and research on fre blight management.
Photo courtesy Kierstin Schmitt.
MSU-WARC has been one of research centers in Montana and part of the Montana Agricultural Experiment Station (MAES) since 1907. According to the MSU College of Ag Department of Research Centers webpage, “MAES- Serving the state of Montana’s agricultural and natural resource industries by providing meaningful and applied agriculture research since 1893.” MSU-WARC has a long history and impact to local farms and the economy of Montana communities.
HURRAH: last Creamery Picnic Parade for duo
Continued from page 1
Having let the Stevensville Civic Club know, Pfau said, “They’ll have a year to fgure it out,” and fnd new announcers. However, Pfau and McNulty are not worried. “There’s some characters. They’ll fnd somebody,” said McNulty.
“We’re not irreplaceable,” said Pfau. According to the men, the parade will need someone with a big loud voice, a little bit of personality and who’s “not afraid to pick on anyone,” they both said. They looked back on their time announcing for the parade and the picnic and recalled some highlights.
0
They talked about the calf dressing event and how that raised a lot of money. They were happy to see the greased pig event come back and enjoy that event a lot. They also said how “things have come back to what it was,” said McNulty. The men said the picnic used to be all downtown, then it moved to the park. Here recently they are happy to see more stuf happening in the downtown, and would love to see more of the event move back to the downtown. For them, it seems a great way to help the local businesses. McNulty added that there was just something special about looking across the street and seeing everyone going into shops and out to games and activities in the street. They cannot remember a year when the parade was rained out. One year a few people got
heat stroke and COVID-19 was a “weird one,” with not being able to see anyone’s faces through masks. They also said the event has grown a lot over the years, with many more entries into the parade. They also noted fewer horses than before.
The pair are also well known for their announcing of auctions, like the pie auction for the Stevensville Main Street Association. They are particularly known for helping to raise thousands for numerous nonprofts and causes in the valley, over the years. Because of this, they feel they should keep announcing for some of those. “We know the people and we know how to get the money out of them,” said McNulty with a smile.
For almost 35 years, the parade always had one or both of them, every single year. In all their years, they each only missed one parade, and each on separate years.
Looking ahead, McNulty said, “It isn’t emotional, but it is a step. I enjoyed it.”
“I did too,” said Pfau.
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IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT
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HELP WANTED: WHITTECAR RIFLE & PISTOL RANGE Caretaker needed. $14.50 hour. Onsite living required, housing & utilities provided. Open to couples. Nancy Preston, Apex Human Resources, Inc , 406 777 9869, nancy@apexhumanresources.com
Extension Agents –Family and Consumer Sciences and 4-H in Blaine County, Chinook, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming. Complete information and to apply: www.montana. edu/extension/careers.
Extension Agent in Meagher County, White Sulphur Springs, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming. Complete information and to apply: www.montana. edu/extension/careers . In compliance with the
Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profle. Montana State University does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back! $5.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star ofce, 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville.
AKC CHESAPEAKE
BAY RETRIEVER MALE
PUPPIES for sale.
Whelped 5/25/2025, second vaccination, worming and microchipped, 4 generation pedigree showing championship genetics. Very social, playful and friendly. Call or Text (559) 730-5873 to arrange an in-person visit.
GARAGE SALE: Saturday, August 9th 10-4, Sunday, August 10th 12-4. Tools, clothing, household
goods, numerous dog items, Great Pyr Rescue MT merchandise. Truck camper for dually. 133 Canyon Creek Drive, Hamilton. NO EARLY BIRDS.
MONTH TO MONTH
RENTAL, furnished apartment on 10 acres with private small yard, gorgeous views in the Stevensville area, $1450/month includes utilities, call for details, available mid August, (818) 921-5275.
1 BEDROOM APT. for rent, 804 South 4th, across from Rocky Mountain Lab. $800/mo. 406-381-2204.
ROOM FOR RENT.
Bed, dresser, TV, small fridge, includes utilities, common areas, kitchen use. Hamilton. $350/ month. Call or text (406) 880-8351.
RENTAL NEEDED
Retired Christian man, Bitterroot resident for 25 years, non-smoker/drinker, needs rental, can do security/livestock care for partial rent, October or later move in time, (406) 369-4473.
Legal Notices
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Council on Aging dba BitterRoot Bus is proposing a rate increase to support rising costs in providing transportation throughout Ravalli County. We will accept comments until August 15, 2025. Please direct comments to Ryan Shelton 406-363-7484.
BS 7-16, 7-13, 7-30, 8-6, 8-13-25. MNAXLP
CANYON CREEK IRRI-
GATION MEETING
Canyon Creek Irrigation District is holding a shareholders meeting Thursday, July 31, 2025 at the Daly Leach Chapel in Hamilton at 7 PM. BS 7-16, 7-23, 7-30-25. MNAXLP
In the Matter of the Estate of CHARLES F. WROBLE, JR. a/k/a CHUCK WROBLE, Deceased.
Probate No.: DP-412024-0000083
Dept. 1 NOTICE OF HEARING ON APPOINTMENT OF SPECIAL ADMINISTRATOR
Notice is hereby given that Brittany Wing, Guardian of J.K.W. and A.J.W., creditors of the estate, has fled a Verifed Petition for Appointment of Special Administrator of said estate. For further information, the Petition may be examined in the ofce of the clerk of the above Court. Hearing upon said Petition will be held on August 27, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 1 of the above-named Court, at which time all interested persons may appear and object.
DATEd this 14th day of July 2025. Chouinard & Winderl, PC Attorney for Petitioner/ Creditor /s/ Megan S. Winderl BS 7-23, 7-30, 8-6-25.
MNAXLP
John S. Masar
LionWood Law PLLC 115 W. 3rd St., Ste. 103 Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 625-2682 jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com Attorney for Plaintif MONTANA TWEN-
TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY ROBERT WILLIAMS, Plaintif, vs. JOHN N. LIGHTNER and RUTH H. LIGHTNER, and JANET K. KESTLER a/k/a JANET KESTLER and ALVIN T. REUTER, and MELINDA L. REED, a/k/a MELINDA L. REED HETTICK, and ROBERT M. HETTICK, their heirs, devisees, and assigns; and all other persons, unknown, claiming or who might claim any right, title, estate, or interest in or lien or encumbrance upon the real property described in the Complaint adverse to Plaintif’s ownership or any cloud upon Plaintif’s title, whether the claim or possible claim is present or contingent, Defendants.
Cause No.: DV-25-85
Dept. No.: 1
HOWARD F. RECHT
SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION THE STATE OF MONTANA TO THE ABOVENAMED DEFENDANTS
GREETINGS:
YOU ARE HEREBY
SUMMONED to answer the Amended Complaint in this action, which is fled in the offce of the clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to
fle your written answer and serve a copy thereof upon the Plaintif’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default, for the relief demanded in the Amended Complaint.
The real property afected by this suit is situated in the State of Montana, County of Ravalli, and is described as follows:
A tract of land located in the NE1/4SE1/4 of Section 26 and in the NW1/4SW1/4 of Section 25, all being in Township 10 North, Range 20 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana, and more particularly described as Lot 43, Certifcate of Survey No. 355. Together with a fourteen by seventy (14x70) foot 1974 Academy Mobile home thereon.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 18th day of July, 2025.
PAIGE TRAUTWEIN, CLERK OF COURT BY: Sarah Sargent, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-23, 7-30, 8-6-25.
MNAXLP
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Rebecca E. Mann, Rebecca E. Mann, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20250000229-NC
Dept. 1 Howard F. Recht NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Rebecca Elizabeth Mann to Rebecca Elizabeth Busch. The hearing will be on August 20, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County. DATED this 8th day of July, 2025.
/s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court By: Sarah Sargent Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-23, 7-30, 8-6, 8-1325.
MNAXLP
Daniel Browder, Esq. Browder Law, PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840
MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GLADYSMAE GARRARD, Deceased. Cause No. DP-2025-86 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Cleo A. Monroe has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.
Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Cleo A. Monroe, return receipt requested, c/o: Browder Law, PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, Montana, 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court. DATED this 23rd day of July, 2025. BROWDER LAW, PLLC /s/ Daniel Browder
Attorney for Personal Representative BS 7-30, 8-6, 8-13-25. MNAXLP
William J. Nelson, Esq.
Nelson Law Ofce PLLC
217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840
Telephone: (406) 3633181
Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: BRIAN QUENTIN GEDLING, Deceased.
Cause No. DP41-2024127
Dept. No. 1
NOTICE TO CREDI-
TORS
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.
Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Sharon E. Luedecke return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 23rd day of July 2024. /s/ William J Nelson
Attorney for Personal Representative /s/ Sharon E. Luedecke
Personal Representative BS 7-30, 8-6, 8-13-25. MNAXLP
PUBLIC HEARING
The Darby Town Council will hold public hearing for the purpose of obtaining public comments regarding the Town’s overall community development needs (public facilities, economic development, and housing needs), including the needs of low and moderate income persons. The Town of Darby will also seek the views of citizens on the activities that should be undertaken to meet the identifed needs and their relative priority. The Town may apply for funding from the Montana Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program (federal funding administered by the Montana Department of Commerce) and other state and federal funding sources to deal with local housing, public facilities, or other community needs and would like comments or suggestions from local citizens regarding the Town’s needs and the type of projects which should be considered.
Comments may be given orally at the hearing or submitted in writing before 5:00pm on August 11th.
Anyone who would like more information or who wants to submit suggestions should contact Tammy Stuart, (406) 821-3753.
The hearing will be held at:
Darby Town Hall
101 East Tanner Ave. August 12, 2025
6:00 PM BS 7-30, 8-6-25.
MNAXLP
DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY RESOLUTION
VICTOR SCHOOL DISTRICT #7
RAVALLI COUNTY
VICTOR, MONTANA
59875
WHEREAS, Section 20-6604, Montana Code Annotated, provides in pertinent part: (1) Whenever the trustees of a district determine that a site, building, or any other real or personal property of the district is or is about to become abandoned, obsolete, undesirable, or unsuitable for the school purposes of the district, the trustees may sell or otherwise dispose of the real or personal property. If a decision to sell or dispose of property is made, the trustees shall adopt a resolution to sell or otherwise dispose of the district real or personal property because it is or is about to become abandoned, obsolete, undesirable, or unsuitable for the school purposes of the district. (2) The resolution may not become efective for 14 days after the notice required in subsection (3) is made. (3) The trustees shall provide notice of the resolution in the manner required for school elections in 20-20-204.
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 20-6-604, Montana Code Annotated, the Board of Trustees of Victor School District, has found that miscellaneous items are obsolete, undesirable, or unsuitable for school purposes;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees of Victor School District, shall place the real property on the open market, advertise the real property as being for sale and sell the same if a qualifed buyer makes an acceptable ofer to the District:
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, in accordance with District practice and as required by Sections 20-6-604 and 20- 20-204, Montana Code Annotated, this Resolution shall be posted in three diferent places in the district and published in the newspaper of general circulation in the District. A list of all surplus items can be viewed on the Victor website: https//www. https://www. victor.k12.mt.us/o/vps/page/ surplus-equipment. To view these items in person, please contact Victor School at 406642-3221.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the resolution shall become efective fourteen (14) days after such publication and posting if, in accordance with Section 20-6-604, Montana Code Annotated, no taxpayer appeals this Resolution prior to August 20, 2025, by fling a verifed petition with the Clerk of the District Court setting out in detail the objections to the adoption of the Resolution or the disposal of the property and serving a copy of such petition upon the School District.
DATED this 28th day of July 2025
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Victor School District
ATTEST: Shelley O’Leary, Clerk of the Board
By Marci Smith, Chairperson of the Board
BS 8-6-25. MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE HAMILTON ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Variance Request #202501, 101 Pine Street and 305 N 1st Street: A request by William E. Cofee of Stockman Bank of Montana for a variance from the required front yard setback in the Highway Related Business District (B2). Per Section 17.08.180(3) of the Hamilton Municipal Code (HMC) the minimum required front yard setback in the B-2 District is 35-feet. The applicant is requesting a front yard setback of 15-feet. This request falls under “variances” in HMC Section 17.12.070, which provides a process for Zoning Board of Adjustment review and decision on requests to vary from zoning district standards. 101 Pine Street, Hamilton, MT is approximately 8,382 Sqft, and is identifed by Ravalli County Tax ID # 528500 and Geocode 13-1467-251-15-03-0000, and is legally described as:
Lots 1 and 2, Block 14, Original Townsite of Hamilton, Ravalli County, Montana according to the recorded plat thereof.
Reference for Recording: Document No. 769617
305 N 1st Street, Hamilton, MT is approximately 25,146 Sqft and is identifed by Ravalli county Tax ID# 462700 and Geocode 131467-25-1-15-02-0000, and is legally described as: Lots 3,4,5,6,7 and 8 in Block 14, Original Townsite of Hamilton, Ravalli County, Montana according to the recorded plat thereof; and Lots 16,17,18 and North 10 feet of Lot 15, and all of Lot 19 EXCEPT a tract described as follows in Northeast corner of Lot 19; Beginning at Northeast corner of Lot 19; thence South 14 feet; thence West 24 feet; thence North 14 feet; thence East 24 feet to the point of beginning. All in Block 14, original townsite of Hamilton, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the recoded plat thereof.
Reference for Recording: Document No. 766594
The Hamilton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to take public comment and make a decision on the variance request on Monday, August 25, 2025 at 5:30 PM on the 2nd foor of Hamilton City Hall, 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT.
The public may attend and make comment in person, or on the Internet / by phone through Zoom. Instructions are available on the City of Hamilton website www.cityofhamilton.net, or by contacting aenglish@cityofhamilton.net or cityclerk@ cityofhamilton.net.
Meeting agenda and documents related this hearing are available by contacting aenglish@cityofhamilton.net. Written comments may be submitted in advance of the
public hearing to aenglish@ cityofhamilton.net, or to the Planning Department at 223 S. 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. All comments will be distributed to Zoning Board of Adjustment members. BS 8-6, 8-13-25. MNAXLP
William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Ofce PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840 Telephone: (406) 3633181 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: WILLIAM C. MOLENDA, Deceased. Cause No. DP-2023-130 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.
Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Grace E. Shewmake, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 4th day of August 2025. /s/ William J. Nelson Attorney for Personal Representative /s/ Grace E. Shewmake Personal Representative BS 8-6-25 MNAXLP
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING – STEVENSVILLE RURAL FIRE DISTRICT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Stevensville Rural Fire District (S.R.F.D.) Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing August 20st, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at 156 Kinsman Drive Stevensville Montana, to allow public comment and review of the S.R.F.D. proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. Any taxpayer or resident may appear at the special board meeting and be heard for or against any part of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. The proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget will be on the agenda of the regular board meeting, following the public hearing, to be discussed and adopted on August 20st, 2025. If you have any questions, or want a copy of the proposed budget, please contact the Stevensville Rural Fire District at (406)777-7033 please leave a message if no answer or email admin@stevensvilleruralfre.com or at P.O. Box 667, Stevensville, MT 59870. Please make all communications attention: District “Proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget” BS 8-6, 8-13-25. MNAXLP
