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Coveringthe theBitterroot BitterrootValley Valley- “Where – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Owned Locally&Owned & Independent Covering Montana Begins!” - Established 1985 - Locally Independent
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B e ‘Th 37 29 39 Volume Number 35 Volume XXXVII, Number 30 XXXVII, Number 28 Volume XXXIX, Number 33 29 Volume XLII,XXXIX, Number 01Number Volume XXXVII,
30, Wednesday, February 9, 20 Wednesday, January 26, Wednesday, March 13, 20 Wednesday, March 6,202 Wednesday, July 15, 2026 Wednesday, January 31, 202 Wednesday, February 2, April 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Sheep Creek flyover turns heads Mine talk draws hundreds
Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercente open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Kristin MichaelKruse Howell by
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have an tional and physic andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the prop Thechanges park additional impact on peopl therapy services – by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision review the environmen John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.of It’sDowd been a long time servation provided to Colleen board made property taxes. byby John organizations. The Hamilton Ravalli County Eight Mile public safety, and across the impacts byincluding handing off its thera over 220 people theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. The TrapThree Club “The has whole coming, but the new Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to thea loan, purpose is to Company. 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 imagi As debate continues provide this rich learning held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to plat the subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper Missouri agencies and ignoring num Phillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG Oswald heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as well as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald and Located at 4433 both the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for over therunning. proposed Sheep experience for community and lab ceremony, said concerning the Sen ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments expressed concern Waterkeepers and a group ous specific, documentable was attended by(the people from all ove Ranch in Florence, aleaders presentatation a resident of the West Fork. He has Creek rare earth mine toboard imagine what Sunnyside Cemetery Road, and the in Darby and contacted him, the project. Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said An open house celebration was organization’s 50 years of service, “ for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents living close and clearly defined impacts upsport headwaters ofthe the having a rare earth11 mine tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and in school Montana, including Anacon theits center is east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 shooters to gather, sotheyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on a 49.22-acre parcel the Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the such as West Fork of the Bitterroot up the headwaters of the complex that will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and away a of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnic cialize, compete and hone their Humane Association’s (BRHA) new ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by am the facility open River, the Bitterroot Water Bitterroot would be like,” of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abunmetal contamination in rivers. HeFarmers has Helena even into Idaho. This (RCFWA), onathe Creek by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Uning contains large meeting State and rummage sales, bingo nigh skills, the north club also functions as Mine a they started built just of Sheep Last weekend the Bitter Partnership organized a sesaid Alex Ocañas, commuanimal located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular trips per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County and been in the area and failin proposal. According to Oswald, limited. according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conse room, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from comm by spring of 2023 501c3 non-profit supporting the Stevensville at the Humane Association participatries of flyovers to give local nity conservation manager Mile Creek Road and Upper road system. Additionally, and some already having to the Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on th Road in Hamilton. The event served a Kathie Butts, President of the president of the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, and has been his bio on the Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this in 2012 their loan nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan See Mine, page corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in a nationleaders a firsthand look at for the Bitterroot Water Woodchuck Road east of the applicant is proposing to be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. double purpose. It included a ribbon Board, said, “This organization has system, and a gorgeous view and incorpopayments contributors were the Thre programs such as The Bitteron continuing to theal remote project area. Partnership. “slumber party” event. Creek Road and Florence. The 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. According toThe club The west. event came justbranded Ocañas saidsaid the orgaexpand services. Bitterroot shelter their Hwy 93. developed by Laura Watson of foot easement for the use and impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct that th the She the Those payRock Park and the Rapp Fa members, hundreds of kids have facility, including tours of the whole started about 50 years ago. I feel a weeks after US Critical Manization coordinated the Florence Rural event the “Slumber Pawty,” which “We’re bringing t Watson Homes LLC who was benefit of the dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or duty to provide the statutor The building is now home total cost is ments come ily Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in that program building, andits anlatest array ofevent foodand andprovided guides huge sense of responsibility to hono terials submitted opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerFire District and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife required information lies w carebefore tosaid theus patien to the senior center and the approximateouton ofnearby park Schmiedeke there over the years. Along with their terroot Health CEO, drink in honor of the organization’s those who have come and exploration plan to the U.S. for each flight. 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], t Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who own programs, the club supports he said. Forest Service, renewing “These are prominent 50th birthday. make it as good as it can be as we se said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, among Consultants Inc. (PCI). Fire District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect in its im that serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has over discussion over thehad pro- Between Bitterroot,” Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi tvoices organization the course for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital other fun activities. 12in the proposal is for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County ca TheThe surrounding park conSchmiedeke assessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners and posed mining project and she said. peth, chair ofwith the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. In 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 traveled really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. Th Montana Hope Project. itsThe potential impacts. The flights up Three It is often said that Mile Community Senior Center board members, l to r, Colorganization conducted a successfu 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 The Bitterroot Water the West Fork of the Bitterclub islocally utilized by local schools, little owned SAPPHIRE, page with the animals, wore fundraisingSee campaign fund the n granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave saidto this project courts, ashelter walking a root playgroup had what leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the they didn’t Partnership, with donated River, providing Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts bookstores are a waning See the CENTER, pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then Covid-19 the BRHA land on Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run flights from EcoFlight and organizers described as a has been four pag yea and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of the shelter. pandemic hit and construction cost with a 99-year lease. Sixlandscape-level years later, perspective LightHawk Conservation others. in the works, but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over and Flying, flewcurrent more than 20the U.S. of the proposed As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded mining The executive diOne Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured from left, leads a gathering peopleskyrocketed. involved in the celebrating the opening of the new animalfifth shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michaelof Howell. even out of the country held the people over the proposed area. had to take out a mortgage to finish the land to the organization where rector, Tomtake Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays due to the same event during the same 24mine site in roughly half a “Conservation issues Bitterroot Health building project in a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on Trap the property that had Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members linehoused up for athe shoot. Photo Kristin Kruse. thethis, current shelter is located. The to as they were reSee TRAP, 5 a landscape levdozen flights. Participants at See SHELTER, page hour period. The event ismatter apage fundpandemic. She sa shelter since 1984. theat organization’s of directors will be built on land located the corner ofboard Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being included county commisel,”particOcañas said. “It’s imraiser for each shelter, and their vision is tha by John Dowd do. According to Steinhoff, “We have just north of the Stevensville Junction. an “outstanding byto Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the sioners, state legislators, toNathan get that 1,000ipants each workmodel to raise portant funds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important business owners, media foot view.” donate to their respective shelters. Hamilton City Council met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said Christine Staub, a driving falling victim to mail way to combat the Hamilton Downtown facility will besuc mo members, ranchers and According to Ocañas, Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as Tony Hudson looks down“quality, over Painted Rocks Reservoir during last week’s conservation flyover. According to event organizers, the proposed mining been providing Individual businesses day, Marchcommunity 5 to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. abuse is for people Association. They will representatives from conof a “medical center” rather than jus is 11 times thepersonalized size of the surface area ofHamilton. the reservoir. Photo by John Dowd. also donated toprojects. the fundraiser, See FLYOVER, 4 area accessible, upcoming city atpage thewas time, though they may to ship901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said thatquestions Marcus Dal The new 12-acre campus will care” for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of ping depot for FedEx, and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. Hospital, which is a critical access about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.”the Farrenkopf In recent years, theyShoppe provide primary, care, urgent care and Appreciation by Mayor DomiBoxxe versation with tho Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners throug There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it at hospital, was recently rated #4 in the specialty services. Two physicians have Farrenkopf is legally justified to you know and love co-owners, and been taking steps to a lengthy fund by fund bythe Victoria Howell me like a ton of of slumber party, and a barbelier, made it into the opening. After the time. However, at the end of the Police Chief Stephen Snavely. open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national ra ing to one of them, Mara Every year, the Ravalli accounting that, to su 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 the meeting, during the non-agenda items In his presentation to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Asso-been up, shows thefaciliti count ing agency, outitof 351 similar practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have in the Burnt area lately to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion the counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways they ciation works to affect conseroverall, doing very we visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. Victoria Howell being recruited. also be he said, with clinics in doingaresent to Covid, Greg home from There willby retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and victims are told, bu have been so successvation in the Bitterroot through on its tax collections a Many ofthe thepublic participants thatperiod The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet has a During comments. Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that ove the ful. Joined by the other showing revenues various projects and programs. spent night were will kids. During tional Forest (BNF) The Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message for you: of the the council meeting, Robert “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. toStein“become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One such program is their the slumber party, participants hoststood afool public meetingthe council. Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. This is by Mike Hudgins mily-oriented event centered traditional hoff to address He said council member Jenny West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that happen able to uncover the to departments sayon they are ship and Marisa Neyenhuis, most wh scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” this Wednesday, March music. 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 Overstreet, two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having who can expenses have only o Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. awards three winners 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. When Mike and Tari Conroy began “It’d be really cool to have anofto old-time See PETS, page 11 hosted by the County Fish and and possibly Stevensville as well.” Her ing his department’s experiof the package: nearly paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy a23% jubilee an attorney in During that time, amounted of three people allows them an interest in pursuing todisplay share Association information talking about creating a bluegrasscelebration. festival bluegrass festival like they used to have Wildlife and Trout Unlimthoughts were shared by several other ence with Ms. Staub was one $16,000 in cash, common tactics fo and former council member, the public at the next meeting Halfway through projections due in larg to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, by Victoria Howell in 2009, they weren’t trying to build back in the the old days,” Mike said. “They’d regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, part jobyear’s vacancies the chair of to this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural appears to be continuing when the council Montana’s considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, biggest music event. TheyRod Freeman have one is microphone, and everybody ment of a draft forest lip Ramsey to speak on the dangers In discussion agenda In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly send-from a normal claiming to county’s performance that have yet torepbe fill said Luther. The spread sciences. event. Freeman is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with of his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addienvisioned something much simpler: would be camped right around it, playing Climbing Management At the second regular of a proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, the first to be brought forward er came to the Boxxe Shoppe ing to a scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one council and mayor how local Committee, the stuff vicethe chair of the Fair Board colon cancer in “I jokingly saywhere families an99. old-time gathering the and old-time old-time way.” Plan (CMP). The virtual tional council members. meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, “I thought was the issue of re-roofing the city intending to send a package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. N by John Dowd of that time as the executive director. of the winners to receive aMara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo by John Dowd. camped together, musicians Finding afor home that A vision which he’s been onby 12 for years. realcame estate fo February of 2021. that 51 is brain Christine Staub of thecrowded Boxxe Shoppe. Photo Nameeting will beto held on See BOOKS, page 18 government should run. He “We’ll do our job,” said it wasn’t going affect me, but I street shop. According to Hamilton via FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, on After it was announced that he would be Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the check was Savannah Deuter, around a single microphone on a rustic little more conversationsand withals agent for through 18 years here in than the Bitterroot, He wentSee through damage material.” Zoom. below for only than Boddy. learned that it would take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer Sometimes they was a frequent commenter Gibson retiring, he was asked to speak, and was got into it after because he owns thein Paper valley. For him, the experience has be On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the who high school in stage, and the last scheduled act left friends and neighbors. After securing perJanuary 27, town clerk Jenelle the Army for 21 years, his organizational and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Seewith COUNTY, page seemed con-introduced will tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney the stage, the music carried on around mission to use neighboring ranch properMay of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Five fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put in he was wasthe no late joke. “It fused and unOver victims that a loved has hurting.” said that he heard plow storage for other maintehosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law andand the current executive suggested to him that he victims, get involved all over the valley,” all of i campfires into the night. ties,people the Conroys decided to take aand chance. completed a semester of college the last administration. In from Hamilton, was recpotential butuse wishes similar meetings audience that she was having good as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee told that the cancer got so bad I felt familiar with course of her landed in jail, or that a prize about the track record of the company nance equipment. According to RaSeventeenHe years later, vision isthe commuThey invested $2,000 from their director. Al gave told a history ognized of the chamto network. then gotthat onto the board has been “extremely rewarding.” for members, giving their annual report, and submitted herin transcript that others within public Crews for in (virtual) were held Freeman saidAl the committee hopes to trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but aMike feeraise needs had been eradicated. like Ito couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was notwhat very comment, mer,and it isspoke the original roof, which hasstepping coming an90s, end. savings to launch the first festival. in the early and in 2012 he became was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about ber, 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 rode and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsome significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I This summer’s Hardtimes Bluegrass even sold a prized banjo tone ring to raise ings on the internet. She said they have planned for the upcoming bers during that time that led up to him the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the adv associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one Inhas addition to the been in the by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney Festival, scheduled for July 24-26, will enough money to purchase the festival’s pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he sa surgery on October was being water taking on the position. Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition in year. During the meeting, it was also the former YouTube chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn and eachpicious In addition to the custom leathbe the festival’s last. For the Conroys, the first 20 T-shirts. when has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, time left will cut down on the heating bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting bang the “The mayor, notofthe GregValley Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided whatand story the Bitterroot 55boarded, board members participated the role. Al will be retiring in August t announced that long-time member,address 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 decision wasn’t about declining interest “It was very bare bones,” he said. Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Photo courte considering recovered address, but(left. will be ready taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. AlAllen spoke, Jodi stood to to tha removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately or a lack of success. It was about recogFrom the beginning, the festival reflecthe customgrab the package from a porc Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there anygle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, He said theCovid-19. organization’s history. According towith him for cowboy all his help to remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual balland – which actuall Another of these requiretreatment in the boarding to be had to be provided a ride is not a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, this er’s Mist, a new business haseven recently and regional See artists. Many of these nizing in they’d accomplished exactly what ted the couple’s philosophy. A single stage COUNCIL, page 21 athing new Facebook page. Hower’scould age andoverarching or front door when it arrives. the was doing, or Mitchell has been with the Chamgoal for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what was to meant to be as a six-month he was only supposed to held speak for yea 10 ments iscity that each applicant started 11was years ago but couldn’t be last the bank well as to the colon cancer journey. like,” recalls week’s meeting will location. covthey set out to do. built to resemble the front porch ofthe an session. “It’s public comment.” did the work at no charge to opened at the same Howevartists have not shown their work in the particular cash, all of “They always direct ever, members of the public ber for over 36 years, and spent much always been to keep businesses connectappointment to the position lasted 12 minutes. a 500-word essayabout dis- the Boxxe Shoppe. due to theold pandemic – haswith been this The day after that Overstreet. “This ersubmit the following agenda “We to were 100 percent successful,” cabin, complete oneupgraded microphone. er, dissuading any worries thehad Bitterroot Valley before, so there details the which was victim send ‘no signatur The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who had he tried to access theplays years, and he enjoyed every moment Jodi statedto that theit,membership cussing the role hunting “It’s common sense to me,” year. topics: Mike said. “This is exactly what we wanRegional musicians took center stage, while surgery, was is when I realized changeover, it will remain a place should aanswering lot of interest inand theMark new transaction. being fraudurequired,’” she adds. Fredhe Upchurch, Deuter Oswald hold the been check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Assoc lyofthat wouldbe beSavannah publicly thank Joan for helpThe Town of recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, of it.do.” “It’s a good ride forStevensville 29“This numbers have been “trending ever she says, pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall ted to campers gathered nearby and impromptu is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with that I was not art. After two months of renovations material. There are 16 artists in total lently deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highes See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town,” flags abound when seniors are center, for filling in while town attorney Overstreet The idea for Hardtimes grew from jam sessions carried on Greg well into the night. objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. The University COVID-19. taking Covid while hidden behind brown-paper ly, it covwas notso far, and the owners are always manded from of 1970 requires banks to being on thethe other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person conversations couple had about re“We wanted the old-time experience,” Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes of the public ofPictured Montanawith Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Studio opened for“I patience as Jake’s she worked was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s firstwelcoming more. “We like all kinds senior citizen keep track of withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, pag isof80 years old, and all ofMike a said. “It was all creating the kind traditional bluegrass family oriented. Peopconversations should be forsaid some its doors March 1.said ofprepared mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and festivals they remembered. Rather than le wanted to bring their kids... Some of the sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new business will feature business partner, Suzette Smith. encountered commuSee page 2 and “interesting comments” from Greg Overstreet talks about his brush death dueSTEVI, tothe multiple hit Hardtimes former mayor stages nationally known bank to5withdraw $15,000, it MikeOverstreet. andJim Tari Crews, Conroy“It founded Bluegrass Festival 17 years ago. Therecent final festival will with be held July 24-26. Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901 S. 1st Street in Hamilton. See COWBOY BALL page See SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom leatherwork by Karen Some of the artists displayed such cirnity. Staub is Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. SCAMMERS, page headliners, they envisioned a smaller, faSeeSee BLUEGRASS, page 3 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” Photo courtesy of Mike Conroy. See PLAN, 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one ofpage the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants County Commissioners work is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plan by John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with a On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensvila proved adoption of a memorandum of understand of 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 contes by ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue work byJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing with the Ravalli County DUI Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith took over the space. While A Hamilton business,In that hails the theme is pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice the change at all, the andinvestigation. it may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After the ing and marketing as one. “Weand didn (DCI) will be doing the commissioners statedwant Protection Agency. The lette National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a secured video designe to her leatherwork, isaround also RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working toinan enand theto contest is still looking agricultural leadership competito the level and invita by Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the southand portion was purchased tostate change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 1st, 4:30 1889, According Hamilton Police Depart- sale, to help parents keep tabs on their children’s beha accomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations manage timber to provide Plan. 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 twel Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of the previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Police, 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. forest products and toof unmitigated SEIS record of decision changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change wilf in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on by Victoria Howell if it would be possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, showgrades. 95th State FFA the Convention in Billings 2023-24 district championships by Victoria Howell year, the facility took inthe just under museum and visitor center, bynot John Dowd The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rock be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though franchise has split affect buyers and sellers in the valle suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concern was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all county owned/maintained to put envelopes on January 18, for filing objecby Victoria Howell his property which would in effect with the highway, which is a state addressed when the private land wa a Mischief Room last May and commissioners all her work is done her twotook casing the participant’s loveown of art, anddrag, Florence schools inthe April. for Stevensville include: which was built inCorvallis 1996. The $240,000 and spent every penny. venville’s main beckons visitors ies Bluegrass Association, there wil es might affect them. Fortunately, rights that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Exitroads Realty is still the equipment Lendman said that itand will not chang venience Store. Theby engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also ing the scope of the analysis treatment units. According to from heavy 2021 accompanied by a Draft all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because now you’re going to sold to a new owner Fish, Wild signed off on it. The project involved the creation tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using noMary’s lasers orthreatened CNC manew wing willhave also include a John The Historic St. Misand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. been the most active, though allof Over 200 students in Rockies StevensAgronomy led the by Sidney Jasmin Shinn, founder and There no paid employees; it’sMcan al“N The annual Montana beare no break from music, and, according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold fransame company. Additionally, accord-mostly, in. Photo by Dowd. place after the suspect and standard init, these types kopf, activities director put valentine cards Thethe Stevensville Town CounPark, ain 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucksatrucks, pulling and Parks got involved. once-p and logging the letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides aprocedure site-speathe Forest Service press release set of easily accessible items that hadThe secret hid basement that will provide sion took first step toward ATR Smart Procedures is a softschools in the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education program Casland, 1st place individual with tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up. Just get up there and play.” current owner of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north ing to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot executive director ofnorth 1 Horse volunteer organization. But Shinn said reportedly charged at the responding officer involved shooting See EXIT, page at Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf really cil was split on whether to accept just to the north of the private piece of boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs to the state compartments where someone could stash some much-needed archival storexpanding its museum last root Forest Plan’s Forest-wid about 90% of the proposed but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment ware design company, now based in participate. Some of tremendous the schools even learn aboutFestival a wide is range of agriculteam members Rahl,toKyra D (Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass returning to For some of Quinn these bands, this w officer. have seen supAt A Time Draft Horse it costs about $200 per month feed Homes inHowever, Hamilton, isRescue liked the idea. He“We asked a small piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per hour - there is aflask developed fishing access sit drugs orthe hide aand small of whiskey. The aim wa age space. week, unveiling plans for aafter new Hamilton. moving to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. Management Wildlife Reto Willow Creek Road. Due to defining old-growth stantreatment areas are within an Victor. On Saturday, April 13, the be their first time, and for others th The attempted to provide and we appreciate all Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot these “gentle there are facility inofficers Corvallis, got a nice asking the community students at schools Stevensville bridge, an that was and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But I giants.” think opportunity it’sThen [the piece the The project isport, expected to greatly addition designed to house aitem to provide a learning toon see t Montana, the organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn Ha Neely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is resource and financial limitasource Objective to “Mainta area designated for insect and dards. Some objections to the life-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was boost last week when she was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and to send his residents a and daycares to make National Forest project that significant stained-glass wincost about $400,000. As a considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson said he didn’t west] still a viable piece of land for various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen in love with the According to the contest orgaengaging instruction of ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team Last year lopes. the music. This spring music festival always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported by ambuespecially proud of this during atreatment time old-growth habita disease because of the tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this special envelopes and nonprofit organization, Hisdow and other artifacts that associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck for $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. “Iother city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One of the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, an lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history that he believes is toric St. the Mary’s Mission rehave outgrown the museum’s tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the county. The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only see a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Mo not be able to accommodate on suitable timberland to by January 18 deadline dense pockets of dead and dyfrom representatives of JCCS, an these horses. When they’re fi nally read Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, of commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. to be more reallysupport popular, and from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Ev fromAbout his wounds andawas pronounced seeing the member lowest law en- had lies on donations and grants existing space. four years resident. Then people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Council Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, most can be driven or the accounting fiis rm with branch the necessary support viable populations ingfor trees. They claim the area will having to dowith with theparticipation been through their art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: te mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton to fund its work. Bradt said The nonprofit organization by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a in resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. B then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’ located Hamilton. Part of contest the logging ridden, and some just become “pasture idea came from a similar art from all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Ha of old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the of old growth, newdonated one willon take the stage every half and play, along with theirhave friend Ti within a 55,000 acre ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” museum has already set held athe gathering July 9offered toarea re- Sheriff’s center opened itsto doors in 2020 after to Farrenkopf to see tines to fill the of bridge, was the Town this of land. “It’s two was the condition that looking long term, if you prop See VALENTINES, page 10 pets.” selection forafter awarding that gift See DUI, page they held in Houston, Texas right af- impacts These also include Trapper Creek Job opened tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz first to be created in the last “Itheads really the beetle, in 2020. That developfirst was to the drawing board. by John Down rehabilitation of thelevy road after species.” The letter notes tha tial toIn wildlife and tobank beetle, Douglas-fir bark hour. Ezzell bass. aside some for the veal the project breaking and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away on Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli County for use as a funding roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west side ofestablished the river,and th 1 Horse At A Time was was online voting and according ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, One of the problems, ac50 years. To do this, they will door to some interesting permanent and asked for $9.5 project and plans to pursue ground earlier that morning. One band that continues to return According to Conroy, the festiva issued a press release that detailed ment, Snavely noted there have only the Draft SEIS limits the sco dwarf mistletoe and western the project is complete. Ravalli Willow Creek Road. together to decide what was needed just to the north of Fort Owen State potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially conso tains east of Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea conversations million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we “Hopefully, the third need to was ask the community additional grants to complete The expansion was tenure promptispeople,” the Band, visiting purpose isits “toenvironmental promote and encour event and investigation. However, been three these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a Bitterroot or not needed in theyear, community. They with County objects to in shifting of conseNational Forest spruce budworm damage. During the of former issues… It isof the fastest part of the years. idate highway property into the Tow The original proposal was The next glass recycling event in button, cell phone batteries (out of feature the beauty of the state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen edis by the donation of a large construction by 2027. the charm,” commented to pass a levy, which BVCC said Butter, speaking about was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what th Germany where she grew up around Simmerman, 1 Horse At A Time from Nashville. They will be memjoined by of age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information is available However, these are always a of danger of nonprofit organization that offers a at came up and with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the owner of land channel the deepest part the Vickie Motley, park board Stevensville. I think It’s somethin quences analysis to vegetati in general financial burden of the project officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info to give back to the community, and “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett stained-glass window from The new wing will also withdrawn in August of 2020 Bitterroot Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Communi horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program side targetcenter, which is were modeled after a that highly at the river onbut themuseum northeast had channel. If you toart develop ber, said that had been done RDO Equipment Co. the woodpecker an agreement with the proposed to2more. Ravalli County and believe project is designed to improve from 10 a.m.nothing tounsure p.m. at theevent north if you don’t have batteries toabout recycl St.College Marys Parish, become the permanent home thought their once successful art said Hafer, saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colto of exactly how the College was.” However, the (BVCC) trustee andaccess without success. campaign, which helped the soula, Idaho and The is abut all share thepileated same love of bluegrass after Friends of the Bitterroot she is especially passionate getters. The officer is currently on leave neither the officer, nor any other comed towards highly motivated people successful organization in Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I would also see a problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, pag leaders said the need for addiof the donated stained-glass 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 The vote will take place organization to speak with the process worked. They were seems to have been a major secretary, Sue Smith. She was it is contrary to current law pine marten. forest resilience to natural project, the Ravalli County single-microphone type event, with a When asked why he loves bluegras during thisolder investigation, as is stanmunity members, were during draft horses. She and her husband, a That check followed inRavalli the wake ages 18 and inbeen both andknowncalled “Crosspurpose.” It harmed offers similar and Alliance for the Wild tional exhibitabout space has organizawindow as the “Salish grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on Jun to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will beinsects the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meye misunderstanding about th speaking the on May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under thatthe theStar single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growt Commissioners expressed and existing agreements.” disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 dard protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition to services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children of a $25,000 gift in November See BLUEGRASS, pag Rockies filed suit claiming the growing for years. Madonna.” Because muse8th. gallon. Jars and bottles that coning director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying even the college. public desired an independent nature of the community tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair free career Summit offers The six-month offered species are listed i Forest officials also received and disease; reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks or relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20from Tractor Supply. 406-549-4171 cannot expose sensitive “Wethe are justtraining, hoping this will agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be lead coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask public foruse help with aumsthe Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling According to also Butler mentoring, support and friendship toto direct is broken down into three acre farm which Shinn said can suppor That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip Strobel the Forest Plan, but it is not county owned and maintained ment sources in the Willow artifacts sunlight, become a reality,” said Dora for this a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception has been This year, they will be away compete in FFA includAg Sales place team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by a high many believe it toby be rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. and wanted to hold true.” She thephase trustees said that voted inofpreviously whoever walks through their Stevens that thegiving first isJasmin RDOequipment.com the window will be mounted Bradt, executive director of to about 20 horses. She currently money but, according Shinn, clear whether there are othe roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stay on, but please remove lids. Sponsored by the non-profits When speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the AA schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individua levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreac community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l to r: Levi Clark, CPA, Andrea Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comThis program is the brainchild of called “personal development,” which 2½ feetcludes from the wall to the schools of the Historic St. Mary’s Mission. taking care of draft isabout Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) an in the Bitterroot, Lander said, “All ofoftrout prizes 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 is went to the the district was levy program run Kamryn by the Univers Manager, 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 idenThe approximately and illuminated with backan 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 Leona See GOLD, page for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality i vice chair, Jean Butler, this give it its best chance and to public, they did so after being •FREEby ESTIMATES INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Y OUR HOME IMPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator In a At letter to the Forest firstincluding horse thatmeadows, was rescued 1 Horse A Photo by Victoria Howell. of the Environmental the Fortfound Owen Ranch and founderhabitat tify what each individual’s specific 850-square-foot addition growth in the Bitterroot per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to t Historic St. Mary’s Mission Board members and volunteers present at the reveal gathering. Photo by John Dowd. theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, address the concerns of the approved for the creation of being significantly voted down would be only the fourth of See MISSION, page 5 will becenter, attachedand to the the co-founder and ExecPaid for by Brad Davis, P.O.website: Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page ART, page 44 SeeSee SUMMIT, page cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such as old and Corvallis.
Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty
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 Halfway Climbing through fiscal Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival: scheduled year, county Plan
music may end, but memories remain budget looking good
Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meetin
New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task
Force, MAPS to partner on Art contest seeks Stevi FFA chapter Hamilton officers special video more participation
sweeps district North valley Exit Realty has a new face fire Butterfly on suspect Bluegrass Festival Gold project draws some objections Spreading love horse Local draft rescue thriving St. Mary’s Mission reveals expansion plan Stevi to return park land to county set for Saturday
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
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