Since last year, the City Center Motel in downtown Hamilton has done a lot to promote the community and to become a part of it. The owners have also improved their location signifcantly. All this work was fnally recognized, when Mary Casper, one of the owners of the motel, was recently recognized by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce as the Business Person of the Year.
For Casper, it has been a team efort. She and her husband, Greg Povenski, along with the staf of the motel, have worked hard to make the space a premier hotel to visit in the area. When asked about her reaction to the news that she was being awarded, she humbly said, “I was just so touched.”
“It’s been amazing to be so well received by the town business community,” many of whom she said she looks up to, said Casper. She is active in the community, as both president of the Hamilton Downtown
Foundation and a member of the Chamber. She said it has been a joy to be a part of those groups, saying, “I really believe in those organizations and what they are doing for the local community.”
The City Center Motel was bought and reopened by Casper and Povenski in 2023. Since the beginning, they fell in love with the area, and have tried to do a lot to include other businesses in what they do, from special deals for their customers to shop at other businesses, to information on various travel and business highlights in the area.
Some programs they started last year they are still passionate about, which were highlighted in an article published in the Star in 2024. The owners are also working to bring more business to others in the area.
One example they gave was Juniper Juicing, and how they now serve on Sundays, receiving a lot of the patronage from the hotel. The couple has also met with many other busines-
ses in Hamilton, brainstorming ways to bring them more customers and to support tourism and purchasing locally.
One of the ways they are doing this is with special shopping bags and a list of businesses that are participating in a community initiative. Guests are asked to visit other local businesses, and the ones that are on the list will give them special deals or gifts if they mention where they are staying. For Casper, “the more of those experiences they have,” the more they understand what Hamilton is.
Along with that, the motel also does a guest giveback program, which allows them to give up to $3 more on their bill, which is then donated back to a local non-proft annually. Every dollar raised is then matched by the owners.
According to Povenski, “Mary is incredibly good
with her long term vision.” He spoke on how things have been coming together well. For him, it has been extremely important to keep the local values.
He said what has been most rewarding to see is local people putting up their own visiting family at the City Center Motel. For him, that says they are doing something right. He said the community is the whole reason they are there, and they do not want to change a thing.
“We love it and we want people
to love it.”
Povenski is proud of their customer base, and the community they work with. “It’s not just about a motel, it’s part of downtown.”
Both Casper and Povenski talked about how the community has been so supportive of the project. Casper described how often she will hear things like, “Thank you for not tearing it down, thank you for investing in it,” and more.
See MOTEL, page 3
Annual Food Drive Results
Mary Casper sits in front of the City Center Motel. Photo by John Dowd.
One of the remodeled rooms City Center Motel. Photo by John Dowd.
Election Results
Victor Park District news
After the mail-in election in May, Victor Park Board welcomed two new members, Gina Deschamps serving as Community Liaison and Sheri Jones as Secretary. The returning incumbent Michelle Buker is now Vice-Chair, replacing Wes Young who retired after serving for over 12 years. Roger DeHaan continues as Chairman and Jenecca Prevette as Treasurer. The board is enthusiastic about improving Victor Park, the baseball felds south of town, and the highway plantings along 93 through Victor. They are also looking for ways to hold more community events and generally make the Victor community more aware of, and supportive of, the Victor Parks.
New Trees
In May, Roger DeHaan planted two fowering crabs along 5th Avenue and two Amur maples along Tudor Street. These trees were donated by the DNRC. In addition, an 8-foot Frazier fr went in just west of the Veterans Memorial in the Park, with hopes that it will become a community centerpiece to decorate for celebrations throughout the year. At maturity, “Frazier” could reach 30 feet tall. It was purchased with grants from DNRC and the Ravalli County Park Board.
Events On August 8th and 9th, Victor Days will once again be held at Victor Park, hosted by Gina Deschamps and Treasure Chest Events. Featuring a parade on the theme, “Our Town’s
Treasure,” vendors, bands, children’s attractions, cornhole, and a car show, it promises to be fun for families and the whole community. More information is available at treasurechestevents.com.
Victor Park is available for group and family get-togethers on a non-reserved basis. For groups of 20 or more, the board asks for notifcation in advance and that users abide by the “Guidelines for Park Use” available on victorparkdistrict.org
Ongoing Project
As you may have noticed driving through on Hwy 93, Victor is the only community in the valley that still has live trees and bushes from the expansion of the highway in the early 2000s. This is largely due to the eforts of Roger DeHaan and Wes Young, looking after the irrigation to these plantings. However, some trees have died and some are struggling in what’s a very harsh environment for trees. The DNRC recently visited these highway trees and recommended removing the rocks around the bases, because of the added stress the rocks create by absorbing heat that harms the roots, limiting water percolation, and compacting the roots.
Removing all these rocks is a huge job, but volunteers started it on Saturday, June 21. Spearheaded by Michelle Buker and assisted by students from Trapper Creek Job Corps and several volunteers, they removed rocks from around the bases of all the trees on both sides of the highway. The median trees remain to be done,
as well as hauling away the rocks.
If you are interested in hauling of the rocks or helping on future workdays, call or text Michelle Buker (406239-4195) or check the Victor Park Facebook page or website victorparkdistrict.org
Once the rocks are gone, the board plans to replace the dead trees.
Volunteer Opportunity
The board is looking for one or two volunteers to help maintain two beds of annual fowers in Victor Park. Light weeding and deadheading. 1-2 hours every other week. If you’re interested or have questions, call or text Patti Eldredge at 406-239-6443 or Mary Ann Gingerich at 406-396-0474.
MOTEL: Chamber awards motel for service and community
Continued from page 2
Now, the City Center Motel has been able to fnish work on several spaces that were under construction last year. They have fnished their lobby, which looks out over Hamilton’s Main Street through a big window. This spot is often one of the frst points of contact with a customer, and can make a huge diference in the customer’s impression of the place. Because of this, they went all out.
Casper described their motel, saying, “This is a downtown boutique, high-touch experience.” “Boutique” was the operative word, as they have done four full room re-models. These remodels include a boutique rustic charm that Casper said gives them a unique feel. They also believe that atmosphere is meant to maintain the feeling of being in the area and the “spirit of what it means to live in Hamilton.” She said “boutique” means unique, and not a cookie cutter thing a person can fnd in many other places that claim to be “boutique.” Just like the unique place that is Hamilton.
The motel team also cleaned up all the original spaces and rooms to bring them up to a high quality. They have a few rooms with more space, and a semi-kitchen area. These are for larger families,
or longer stays. Casper said these are perfect for people such as those coming to work temporarily at the Lab, who may need more elbow room for their lengthier stay.
Some landscaping out front was also fnished, providing a community outdoor seating area on the property. Finally, they also added digital locks on all the doors.
As for the “high-touch” part, guests can control the level of interactions, able to show up communicating just through email or text, or they can stop into the lobby in the traditional motel style. The choice is up to the customer, but the motel really shines when they receive the full “high-touch” experience. Customers can ask them to help pick out places to go, things to do or even make their dinner reservations. The
Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce events
by John Dowd
The Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce works to help businesses grow and customers fnd those businesses throughout the valley. Every second Thursday, the Chamber holds a “Business After Hours” event at various member locations in the valley. These provide opportunities for the community and other Chamber members to network and learn what others are doing. According to the Bitterroot Chamber’s Outreach Coordinator, Dawn Luedecke, those interested in attending the Business After Hours should seek more information in the Chamber newsletter on their website, or call the Chamber for specifc times, as they may change, even at the last minute.
However, so far the Chamber has several lined up, including one at Bitterroot Early Learning Network in August, and Alpha Omega Salon in September.
The Hat Edit, at their new location in Stevenville, on August 1 at noon. After that, a ribbon cutting will be held August 21 for Bitterroot Mobile Outpatient Therapy, at 108 N 2nd street, in Hamilton at noon.
The Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce is housed in their Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce and Visitor Center at the corner of Hwy 93 and Main Street in Hamilton (adjacent to Safeway parking lot). This space provides a plethora of material on the area, from business contacts to maps of hiking trails and even an agriculture map of the valley. They also have an interactive agriculture map that will come available online soon, for those interested in that.
motel staf works to help customers at every step of the way, and for Casper, that is really what their mission is about. Casper said they want their motel to really be a “personalized guest experience.”
The goal of their eforts, and the results, have obviously been noticed. For Casper, that is more than they ever asked for, and she wanted to thank her entire team for making that a reality.
More information on the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce can be found on the website, bitterrootchamber.com
The Chamber also holds ribbon cutting events for new businesses to the Chamber. They have one July 17, at 4 p.m., for the Lost Horse Resort and Lodge, there at the business’s location.
The next ribbon cutting on the docket will be
“Frazier the Fir” with Victor Park Board members (from left to right) Michelle Buker, Roger DeHaan, Sheri Jones, Gina Deschamps, and Jenecca Prevette.
Special presentation at Ravalli County Museum on COVID-19 book
There will be a presentation by author, activist, and engineer James R. Olsen at the Ravalli County Museum on Thursday, July 17, at 6 p.m., on his new book, “COVID Wars, A True Story from Both Sides.” This will be followed by a discussion with the author and Pamala Small, retired research department head from Rocky Mountain Laboratories and Hollie Rose Conger, health advisor.
“COVID Wars: A True Story from Both Sides – How a Small Montana County Navigated the Global Covid-19 Pandemic, Public Health, Propaganda, Politics, and the Path Forward” by James R Olsen
Science Editor: Alex Klattenhoff, PhD Candidate, Microbiology & Genetics, Assistant Professor Contributor: Pamala Small, PhD, Microbiology, Professor Emeritus. Retired research department head Rocky Mountain Laboratories.
In the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, a small conservative county in western Montana became an unlikely flashpoint in America’s war over truth, science, and power.
“Covid Wars: A True Story from Both Sides” is the first in a threepart nonfiction series by James R. Olsen—offering a deeply researched, dramatically human account of how one community struggled to
make sense of conflicting mandates, masks, lockdowns, and leadership while the rest of the world burned.
Set in Ravalli County, where 67% voted for Donald Trump but liberal voices still echo through town halls and protest lines, Olsen brings readers into Health Board meetings where nurses, doctors, alternative healers, scientists, and business owners clashed—sometimes respectfully, sometimes not. This is a true story, not a partisan take. It’s about what happens when people must decide who to trust in the middle of a crisis—Fauci or Facebook, science or skepticism, policy or protest.
Drawing comparisons between U.S. failures and South Korea’s success, and between local politics and national events like the Capitol riot, Olsen makes a strong case: how we handled Covid revealed who we are. Backed by over 1,500 citations and illustrated with 130 full-color charts and visuals, this book translates complex medical science and social upheaval into a compelling narrative a layperson can grasp. Kirkus Reviews calls it “analytically relentless, nonpartisan, and appropriately curious.”
Readers’ Favorite hails its “meticulous research” and “humanized approach to pandemic storytelling.”
WATER: Stevi not alone in struggle for rights
Continued from page 1
in size and were using more water all the time.”
These were just a couple of many issues facing Montana towns regarding water rights. For Stevensville, the problems meant that several developments had purchased land, and started to break ground, but could not fnish or link up to the water system without proper water rights, even though these developments were paying for all the hook up costs, and were in town limits.
This new bill streamlines the process for dealing with water rights for towns across the state, yet avoids removing the checks and balances for development. These changes and exceptions do not expand the place of use (POU) for future development, but in Stevensville’s case, allow the restructuring of POU boundaries to essentially match up with the actual
intended area of use.
For Stevensville, this bill is a game changer. To put the problem into perspective, an article by John Dowd in the Bitterroot Star in 2023 stated, “When Stevensville started expanding in the 1970s and ‘80s, the town had to move from using surface water from areas like Burnt Fork Creek and Swamp Creek sent into a fltration system, to a deep well ground water system. With changes in legal water quality standards, the surface water treatment was no longer adequate. The deep groundwater was considered far safer and a new system was put into place. When the system was installed, water rights were claimed for the deep ground water.” However, “during that process, the claim for water rights was written out only for the areas of use at the time, and did not account for much growth.” Further, later in the process, in 2023, Stevensville has been “trying to fle corrections to its rights.”
Much of this information came from the town’s water rights attorney, Ross Miller.
That process has been much longer and more difcult than they had
hoped. It turned out that to make any changes, the Town had to go to “water court,” as well as get approval by the DNRC and other organizations to update the rights. This not-so-simple process also meant the Town met with endless wait times, contradictory approvals and many other hangups. Stevensville was not alone.
According to Michalson, Stevensville was particularly fortunate, as the bill addressed several of the exact issues they were facing.
In HB432, it states in Section 1-4a, “A municipality defned in 7-1-4121 or county water and sewer district organized under Title 7, chapter 13, part 22, may change the place of use for an unperfected municipal use permit or water reservation without the prior approval of the department if,” and the segment goes on to list several criteria, which all include Stevensville under the jurisdiction of this particular bill exception. Those criteria seem to work to simultaneously prevent expansion for the sake of expansion, while also rectifying the issue facing the town.
In late June, Montana Governor Greg Gianforte came to the Bitterroot Valley to visit several businesses with representatives of Montana. Mayor Michalson attended a visit to SemiLink Materials, in Stevensville, to
thank Gianforte in person for signing the bill into law. Michalson wanted to express thanks to all involved. “I want to thank the governor and the Montana state legislature for bringing the bill forward,” said Michalson. Michalson continued, saying the town has already spent well over $100,000 trying to correct its water rights situation, while making no headway.
Michalson said water is an important part of infrastructure, and it is not always thought about until it gets turned of. “You turn on your faucet and it’s there. People take it for granted,” said Michalson.
The mayor also spoke on what this will directly mean for the community of Stevensville. “It means Burt Fork Estates can start phase two,” said Michalson. It also means more revenue for the town when these neighborhoods fnish developing, because they are already in town limits, he said.
“I think any town needs to grow within itself,” said Michalson. He added, “Along with growth, comes responsible development.” To him, one of those things is the ability for a town to secure water rights within the town limits, a struggle which, for Stevensville, may now be coming to an end.
Stuf has come a long way
Things have come a long way. I remember looking back at camping gear when I was in college, and online supplies were hit or miss. As easily as a person could fnd a gem, they could get a lemon. It was a rule that most Chinese or foreign knockofs were defnite lemons. However, recently I have been getting a lot of foreign-made equipment, and I have to report back that most of this gear is actually pretty good.
by John Dowd
There are a few reasons I can deduce for the increased quality of foreign-made equipment. For one, as most people are probably aware, for better or worse, most “high end” equipment and name-brand stuf is made overseas. These brand-name things are made in the same factories, using the same materials, equipment and methods as the knock-of stuf is.
Also, manufacturing techniques really have come a long way, as have materials. Back in the day, the standard for a good tent was pretty low, compared to modern ultra-light tents. I never relied upon those ultra-light tents without applying a liberal application of waterproofng and always used a foor tarp or footprint. Nowadays, I have used several lightweight tents that could, out of the box, endure a hurricane and still keep a guy dry.
A good example of knock-of gear that has come a long way is climbing stuf. These days, a person can buy a nice rappelling device for under $20, made in China, that has the same ratings, testing and certifcations as a top brand device. And, by the way, that brand name device would easily cost around $50. Again, the cheaper ones are made with the same design, same materials and same certifcations.
It puts a real hurt on American industry when the public sees that $20 descender and the $50 “American made” descender. Realistically, which one would anyone want to choose? The funny thing is, I have seen a lot of “American” brands that clearly make their products overseas, and still charge “American” prices for them. It gets a bit loony, when you think about it.
Of course, the argument is always “quality control.” In working with the outdoor gear world, I can easily say, those products see the same inspections. There is no diference, with rare exceptions.
As another example, I was looking at backpacking stoves, and remembered those easily getting over the $100 mark. Brandname stoves could easily break the bank as one of the most expensive pieces of gear in a backpacking set up. However, no longer. Another point is that some of those brandname patents have expired. This means that I found a nearly exact clone of a brand name burner that I had wanted for years. However, here it was, under $30, and it was even improved. The only diference was that the stamped name on the side was some Chinese logo I didn’t recognize, instead of an English name. It really is amazing. I would easily say that we are living in the golden age of outdoor equipment. For the average person just looking to get into the outdoors, it no longer costs a fortune.
With more people than ever interested in going outside, this is all good for the gear market. Now, there is a lot of competition for producers to come up with better stuf, at a lower cost. However, the concern is for the nature people want to visit. I think it is wonderful that a person can go out and get a full backpacking set up, of quality, easily for under $200. But, really, for those of us in the
industry already, especially educators, the burden is on us more than ever to educate newcomers to keep the place clean. Leave-no-trace means a lot more when the hundreds of people that visit decide to ignore it, than it did back in the day. Back then, when a single person was the entire carrying capacity an environment would see in a month, their impact was still pretty small. Today, if a hundred people simply stand in a spot, the place is forever changed.
Merle Unruh
Messing around on rappell with “cheap” equipment. Photo by Andrew Baker.
by Sarah Glass
and community among all their participants.
As the Hamilton Players’ annual theater school sessions end this month, Executive Director Denise Rose anticipates events yet to come. From August 27-30, prospective actors, actresses, and volunteers can meet with the Hamilton Players at the Ravalli County Fair to learn about upcoming opportunities.
Auditions for the “Reader’s Theatre: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe” take place at 7 p.m. on August 17 at the Hamilton Players building on 100 Ricketts Road in Hamilton. “Our reader’s theater is a great introduction to theater,” said Rose. With costuming and lighting, it has a high production presence, she said, and is perfect for people with time restrictions. There are only a few rehearsals, and no one needs to memorize their lines.
Just in time for Halloween planning, the Hamilton Players will be hosting a costume sale September 12-14. Unneeded vintage items, wigs, and donated set pieces will be available for purchase. Visit the Hamilton Players Facebook page to stay updated on their latest events.
At the Stevensville Playhouse, auditions for “And
Then There Were None,” a mystery by Agatha Christie, take place at 7 p.m. on September 2 and 3 at 319 Main Street in Stevensville. Auditions for “Little Women” follow on October 27 and 28.
“When we do a new show, it’s like you have a new fa-
opportunities
mily all of a sudden,” said Ofce Manager Susan McCauley. McCauley served on the Stevensville Playhouse board for several years and continues to help create costumes. She invites anyone interested in learning costume or stage set design to contact the playhouse.
“Anyone who wants to try something, no matter what skills they bring, we will find something for them to do,” she said.
Stevensville Playhouse is working on renovations to seating, tech wiring, and its ceiling throughout the summer. To donate, or to learn more about auditions, visit stevensvilleplayhouse.org.
Photo courtesy Stevensville Playhouse.
Photo courtesy Hamilton Players.
Several audition
will be taking place later this year at the Stevensville Playhouse and Hamilton Players.
Something s eems fishy
T he Forest Service is getting hit with some big changes - allegedly to become more efficient. However, I’m not convinced the changes will make things better. Recent Administration actions to cut budgets; reduce professional Forest Service staff; replace them with political appointees; make timber, oil and gas leasing the agency’s highest priorities; and dismantle what has been known as the world leader in wildland fire doesn’t make sense. My professional experience leads me to suspect that it is an underhanded attempt to make the Forest Service look incompetent, provide the justification to turn management authority of federal lands over to the states and, once the states find they can’t afford them, put them up for sale. Since many of us take our National Forests for granted, we may not fully realize what we had until it’s gone.
A recent Shared Stewardship Agreement between Governor Gianforte and the Forest Service proposes to relinquish authority to manage (italics my words and emphasis) 200,000 acres of National Forest System lands in western Montana to be managed primarily by the State for the next 20 years rings some alarm bells. Although the press release from the Governor’s Office touts the agreement as a measure to “dramatically increase the pace and scale of forest restoration, wildfire risk reduction, and sustainable timber production across Montana’s national forests and adjacent lands”, I find it puzzling why the Governor is so excited to take on such a costly responsibility.
Since the National Forests belong to all Americans and are funded and managed on our behalf by the USDA Forest Service, why is the Governor commenting that “this agreement will empower our state to take the lead in active forest management…” and why is the Secretary of Agriculture remarking that “This agreement is exactly the kind of forward-leaning, state-driven leadership that President Trump and USDA have championed since day one”? Somehow, I think that Theodore Roosevelt, Gifford Pinchot, and many current and retired Forest Service employees would disagree.
Given that the most pressing need for restoration and fuels treatment is to remove low value and non-commercial trees and brushy fuels in and around where people live in the woods next to the National Forest (the Wildland Urban Interface or WUI), why in the body of the agreement does it state : “The project should cover an area of approximately 200,00 acres or more on National Forest systems lands with a focus on areas with marketable timber to meet Executive Order 14225”?
From my perspective, this Agreement appears to be more about meeting a timber volume target and increasing state control of our National Forests than it is about restoring healthy ecosystems and reducing the risk to life and property from wildfire. If public safety and forest health were the real priorities, wouldn’t we be looking at spending money to treat “unmerchantable” vegetation in the WUI and not focusing on areas with marketable timber some distance from population centers? This solution doesn’t reduce
Opinion
the risk of catastrophic fire in the places where we live.
I really hope that I am overreacting and that my assessment is unfounded. After all, there are some appropriate and valid reasons for the feds and the state to work cooperatively on critical natural resource issues. Nonetheless, as it currently stands something smells a little fishy.
Skip Kowalski, U.S. Forest Service (retired) Stevensville
Silence from c ounty government
W e are approaching six months under this new national regime. What effects does this regime agenda have on the ground in Ravalli County? Are Ravalli County elections more secure than the 2020 election? Are real estate sales up? Is there less dust coming from your road? How are tariff uncertainties helping new house pricing? Is your house payment cheaper? Is your child care cheaper? Are there more youth job opportunities? Is nursing home care more available and cheaper? Are we better prepared for the fire season? Is FEMA available should fires flare up? Is GSK in a confident hiring mode due to world vaccine markets? Is the USFS fully staffed to help manage our forests? How are the 50100 federal laid off workers between the USFS and the Rocky Mountain Labs helping grow our local economy? Is Social Security on sounder financial footing?
What are the constructive actions taken by local governments? The Hamilton city council has taken affirmative actions supporting local laid off federal workers! Thank you!
The county commissioners are silent, justifying federal lay-offs as a necessary evil to reduce the national deficit and not offend the king. The commissioners will not issue a support statement for laid off employees or request of NIH, USFS, Senator Daines or Representative Zinke the reasons for local federal payroll and service losses. The commissioners’ apathy and hypocrisy is highlighted by their recent funding request totaling more than $18 million through Representative Zinke’s help to rebuild a bridge, a sewage treatment plant and rebuild Old Corvallis Road. These infrastructure projects are necessary and needed county projects, but why are these projects not also contributing to the national deficit while millions of lost payroll over multi years are acceptable losses to the local economy?
The commissioners’ hypocrisy is put in focus when millions in lost federal payroll is acceptable against the average lifecycle for infrastructure of 20 years. Lost millions in federal payroll would be continuously spent yearly over the same 20 year period. Infrastructure is worn out in 20 years and in need of replacement. Further, the 20 year payroll losses adversely affect forest management and public health research.
Deficits are raised by $3.3 trillion, annually national debt interest is projected to be $1 trillion, debt ceiling is raised by $5 trillion, 1 million plus earners save $89,390, bottom 20% wage earners save $90 in annual taxes due to reconciliation bill.
Welcome to making Ravalli County Great Again through apathy,
hypocrisy and plain good old boy silent bowing and winking before the king’s political graft. Archie L Thomas & Merry Schrumpf Corvallis
Kerr County floods
M ost of you are familiar with the old adage,”When somebody shows you who they really are, believe them.”
Well, this week, with the floods in Texas, Republicans showed the country who they really are. We should believe them.
In Kerr County, Texas, last week’s horrific floods have left 111 dead, and 160 missing, many were children. What is of thundering note is that Kerr County had deliberately rejected the weather warning system that might well have saved many. As reported by Heather Cox Richardson, then county commissioner Tom Moser told the reporters: “It was probably just, I hate to say the word, priorities. Trying not to raise taxes.”
That’s it, the ugly part said out loud. Republicans truly don’t give much respect to human life, lives of children…anything beyond their personal pocketbook. No wonder they vote against healthcare, Medicaid, regulation and last but not least, paying reasonable taxes!
It is a cynical and sad statement about our Republican population and elected officials.
We can, and should, do better. David E. Leslie Corvallis
Complaint re: d am story
P ainted Rocks Lake may be down but Lake Como looks quite full and it empties into the Big Ditch AND the Bitterroot River. Why not investigate before jumping to conclusions? But we certainly do need rain!
Joseph G. Gallagher, Jr. Stevensville
Open letter to Se n. Daines
S enator Daines, the facts speak for themselves: Trump has signed FIVE pieces of legislation and 185 executive orders. And that is all right with you? Amazing! This is executive power on steroids, and we hear no outcry from the GOP that used to stand against the overreach of big government. Can you put yourself in the shoes of constituents and understand that we are having a hard time with what we read above, “I’m here to serve you.” Local issues are important, for sure, but national issues beg for pushback.
Ruth Hazelton Hamilton
Thanks from W ater Partnership
O n behalf of the Bitterroot Water Partnership, I want to extend our sincere thanks to the Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot—and especially to Phil and Doreen Romans—for their generosity, leadership, and longtime involvement in the Bitterroot.
As the Fly Fishers formally sunset their organization, they chose to leave a lasting gift to BWP. Their final contribution will support ongoing work to improve water quality, restore fish and wildlife habitat, and
deliver high-quality watershed education. It will also help fund the annual River Clean-Up--an event they founded, and which BWP is proud to continue as a community tradition. This support reflects what Phil, Doreen, and the Fly Fishers have always stood for—not just a love of fly fishing, but a meaningful commitment to stewardship, education and the health of the Bitterroot River. Their leadership showed that enjoying the river and caring for it go hand in hand—that stewardship is part of the experience, not separate from it.
We’re also grateful to the Romans for encouraging club members to stay connected with BWP’s work. Their thoughtful recommendation will help ensure that each individual’s passion, commitment, and connection to the river can continue to make a difference for our community.
Thanks to the Fly Fishers of the Bitterroot, a community of local anglers are more engaged in caring for our waters. Their final act reflected both generosity and vision, and we’re grateful for their support of the work still to come.
Heather Barber, Executive Director
Bitterroot Water Partnership
Why we protest
I was one of hundreds of concerned citizens in the Bitterroot Valley who participated in the “No Kings” protest recently, where we raised our voices and signs in unison. We weren’t alone. Millions from Alabama to Alaska came out in opposition to the autocracy that Donald Trump represents. There were pro-Trump hecklers present, and it occurred to me that there might be a fundamental misunderstanding of why we were protesting. I wasn’t there to protest Trump being our president. He won the election and is our president. We were there to protest his constitutional overreach with the use of his executive orders.
Every president except one, William Henry Harrison, who died after only a month in ofce, has issued executive orders. Indeed, slavery, one of the greatest travesties in American history, was corrected at least partially by an executive order, Abraham Lincoln’s 1863 Emancipation Proclamation. The diference is stark with Donald Trump and his EOs. He doesn’t seem to understand that his authority is not limitless, and he keeps exceeding that authority. He tries to erase birthright citizenship with his pen, despite the concept being enshrined in the 14th Amendment of the Constitution. He tries to exclude entire classifcations of people from entering the United States, and targets law frms for representing those he sees as political enemies. The list, unfortunately, goes on and on.
Executive orders must be based on constitutional or statutory authority and are always subject to judicial review. They can be struck down if found to be unconstitutional. All past presidents of the United States understood this and drafted their executive orders accordingly.
The illegal actions of the Trump administration seem limitless. It is hard to imagine a better reason to protest.
Evan Schroedel Florence
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Red Sox host community night
The Bitterroot Red Sox American Legion baseball organization had a special Community Appreciation event at the American Legion Field in Hamilton on Tuesday, July 8. The event took place before and during the Red Sox’s doubleheader with the Kalispell Lakers, and was a way for the organization to thank the community for all their support.
“It is a great way for us to say thank you to the community,” said Jamie Tadvick, the Red Sox board president. “We have an excellent ‘A’ team this year, and we wanted to show how much all the support from the community means to our programs and the kids.”
The Bitterroot Red Sox are sponsored by American Legion Post 47 in Hamilton. The Post 47 Color Guard presented the fags at the opening ceremony before the game. American Legion Baseball is in its 100th season this year, so the celebration honored that as well. The Red Sox began playing Legion baseball in 1988; before that there was one combined Legion team in the Bitterroot Valley.
The Red Sox gave special recognition to Ravalli
Services during the event, and two of their employees threw out the ceremonial frst pitches to start the festivities.
Attendance was free and there were hamburgers and hot dogs, as well as other events, including Baseball Bingo, where instead of “B6,” you made your mark with a strikeout or a home run or a double play.
The Red Sox were successful in thanking the community with the event, and they were also successful on the feld, as they defeated the Lakers in both games, 7-5 in the frst game, and 3-1 in the second game.
In the frst game, the Lakers jumped out to an early 5-2 lead, but the Red Sox stormed back, scoring 5 runs in the 5th and 6th innings to snag the win. Red Sox pitcher Trevyn Brakken came in as relief and struck out 4 batters and didn’t allow a hit in the fnal four innings of the game. At the plate for the Red Sox, Reese Earp went 1 for 3 and had 2 RBIs, Elijah McNair-Neal went 1 for 3 and had 2 RBIs, and Jude Widmer went 1 for 3 and scored 2 runs.
In the second game, the Red Sox defeated the Lakers 3-1. Starting pitcher Jackson Lubke went fve innings, allowing only 2 hits and striking out 9 batters. At the plate for the Red Sox, Lubke helped his own cause with a solo home run. Trevyn Bakken went 2 for 3 and Jude Widmer stole a base and scored a run.
Missoula Mavericks Tournament
On Thursday, July 10 through Sunday, July 13, the Red Sox played in Missoula at the 2025 Mavericks Invitational Tournament and went 3-2. On Thursday, they defeated the Missoula Mavericks A squad 10-2 and the Tri-County Cardinals 14-3. On Friday, they lost to the Northern Lakes Mountaineers 2-8. On Saturday they lost to the Bitterroot Bucs 6-7. Finally, on Sunday they defeated the Spokane
Expos 16-4.
Red Sox 14, Tri-County Cardinals 3
On Thursday against the Cardinals, Red Sox pitcher Brady DeMoss got the win. At the plate, Reese Earp went 1 for 3 with 3 RBIs. Cash Lawrence went 2 for 4 and scored 2 runs, and Boedy Tadvick went 2 for 2, scored 2 runs and had an RBI.
Red Sox 10, Missoula Mavericks A 2
On Thursday, the Missoula Mavericks A squad, Red Sox pitcher Jude Widmer got the win. At the plate, Brady DeMoss went 2 for 3 with a solo home run, Hunter Harrness went 1 for 3 with 3 RBIs, and Jackson Lubke went 2 for 3, scored 3 runs and had an RBI.
Red Sox 2, Northern Lakes Mountaineers 8
On Friday, the Red Sox lost to the Northern Lakes Mountaineers 2-8. At the plate for the Red Sox, Elijah McNair-Neal went 1 for 2 with an RBI and Jackson Lubke went 1 for 3 with an RBI.
Red Sox 6, Bitterroot Bucs 7
On Saturday, the Red Sox were defeated by their valley neighbor, the Bitterroot Bucs. The Red Sox led 6-4 after 6 innings, but gave up 3 runs in the 7th inning to take the loss. At the plate for the Red Sox, Reese Earp hit a 3-run home run, and Boedy Tadvick went 2 for 3 with 3 RBIs.
Red Sox 16, Spokane Expos 4
On Sunday, the Red Sox defeated the Spokane Expos 16-4. At the plate for the Red Sox, Brady DeMoss went 3 for 4 with 4 RBIs, and Joe Hixon, Trevyn Bakken and Connor Quinn each had 2 RBIs.
Bitterroot Bucs weekly recap
Bucs 14, Dillon Cubs 3
On Tuesday, July 6, the Bucs clubbed the Dillon Cubs 14-3 in fve innings. At the plate for the Bucs, Drew Wagner went 2 for 3, scored 3 runs and had 2 RBIs. Caleb Katen went 2 for 2, scored 3 runs and had 4 RBIs, and Joey Wheeler went 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs.
Missoula Mavericks Tournament
On Thursday, July 10 through Sunday, July 13, the Bucs were in Missoula for the 2025 Mavericks Invitational Tournament. They won fve straight games, then lost 11-16 in the championship game. On Thursday, they defeated the Northern Lakes Mountaineers 7-2 and the Spokane Expos 16U 13-2. On Friday, they defeated the Missoula Mavericks A 4-2. On Saturday, they defeated the Bitterroot Red Sox 7-6. On Sunday they defeated the Tri-County Cardinals 11-2. Finally, on Sunday, they lost 11-16 in the championship game to the North Lakes Mountaineers.
Bucs 7, Northern Lakes Mountaineers 2
On Thursday, the Bucs defeated the Northern Lakes Mountaineers 7-2. Bucs pitcher Mason Arlington allowed only 3 hits over six innings to get the win. At the plate for the Bucs, Joey Wheeler went 2 for 4 with 3 RBIs, Isaiah Testerman went 2 for 3, and Chase Wagner went 1 for 2 with 2 RBIs.
Bucs 13, Spokane Expos 2
On Thursday, the Bucs defeated the Spokane Expos 13-2. At the plate for the Bucs, Caleb Katen went 2 for 4, hit a home run and had 3 RBIs, Joey Wheeler went 1 for 2, scored 3 runs and had an RBI, Jordan Vigil went 2 for 3 with an RBI, and Calan Rocco went 1 for 4 with an RBI.
Bucs 4, Missoula Mavericks A 2
On Friday, the Bucs defeated the Missoula Mavericks A squad 4-2. At the plate for the Bucs, Drew Wagner went 3 for 4 with an RBI, McCoy Endres went 1 for 4, scored a run and had an RBI, and Cole Germane went 2 for 3, scored 2 runs and had an RBI.
Bucs 7, Bitterroot Red Sox 6
On Saturday, the Bucs defeated the Bitterroot Red Sox 7-6. The Red Sox trailed 4-6 after six innings, then the Bucs scored 3 runs in the 7th to earn the win. At the plate for the Bucs, Drew Wagner hit a 3-run home run, Caleb Katen went 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs, and Shane Ayers went 1 for 2 and scored 2 runs.
Bucs 11, Tri-County Cardinals 2
On Sunday, the Bucs defeated the Tri-County Cardinals 11-2. Bucs pitcher Jordan Vigil got the win. At the plate for the Bucs, Caleb Katen went 1 for 4 with 4 RBIs, Wes Potter went 1 for 3 with 2 RBIs, and Chase Wagner went 3 for 4 and scored 3 runs.
Bucs 11, Northern Lakes Mountaineers 16
On Sunday, in the championship game of the tournament, the Bucs were defeated by the Northern Lakes Mountaineers 11-16. At the plate for the Bucs, Caleb Katen went 2 for 4, hit a home run and had 4 RBIs. Mason Arlington went 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs, and Drew Wagner went 2 for 3 and scored 3 runs.
The Bitterroot Red Sox held a Community Appreciation event at the American Legion Field in Hamilton on Tuesday, July 8. The American Legion Post 47’s Color Guard presented the colors at the opening ceremony. Photo by Hope Earp.
The Bitterroot Red Sox gave special thanks to Ravalli Services during their Community Appreciation event. Two Ravalli Services employees threw out the frst pitch. Photo by Hope Earp.
The Bitterroot Bucs went 5-1 at the 2025 Mavericks Invitational Tournament in Missoula on July 10-13. The Bucs lost to the North Lakes Mountaineers 11-16 in the championship game on Sunday. Photo courtesy of Bitterroot Bucs.
Trout eat those little bugs that fall in the water
Some friends of mine recently told me about a small red stonefy. The trout were killing the naturals right in front of them and they had no pattern that came close. I was at a loss – I didn’t have time to look it up. I could only ask questions.
They sent me a picture.
Their mystery red stonefy turned out to be a beetle.
I didn’t look it up even after seeing the picture. It wasn’t a ladybug, although a ladybug pattern might have worked.
by Chuck Stranahan
When I lived in the western Sierras a little #16 ladybug pattern was an essential for the meadowed stretches of the Stanislaus and Tuolumne Rivers. The ladybugs would swarm the meadows and eat every aphid in sight.
If a gust of breeze dropped a squadron of ladybugs into the river they’d disappear fast. The trout were used to seeing them and if there was no dominant hatch, they’d likely as not eat a ladybug.
I don’t see that many ladybugs here in western Montana. Instead my secret weapon terrestrial is a simple black ant. Not the gaudy, overdressed ants you see in the bins at fy shops but something that actually looks like… an ant.
The ingredients in my favorite ant pattern are black thread, black deer hair, hook. There are little bulbs of deer hair on either end and a skinny waist in the middle, with a few strands of deer hair poking out on either side. Sometimes I’ll add a wee bit of synthetic see-through fber at the middle to suggest the wings of a fying ant.
I’ll tie these fies in sizes #10, #14, and #18. I’ll make some of the #14’s with a brick redbrown bulb of deer hair at the rear.
I’ll fsh a winged #10 ant when golden stones are winding down in late June and early July, #14’s all summer long, and #18’s from late July into September.
These ants are simple to tie and fsh. They’re hard to see on the water, but so are the naturals. When the trout are rising in the middle of a foam line and there are no aquatic insects in the air, maybe they’re taking ants.
On the Blackfoot my favorite approach to hatchless midsummer lulls is to fsh one of these
invisible ants behind a hopper. The hopper might get a few fsh, but the ant might outfsh it fve to one. Ernest Schwiebert, the venerable author of “Matching the Hatch,” once wrote an article for Fly Fisherman magazine that caused quite stir. He identifed and prescribed the dressing for some ffty-two ant patterns that were important to the trout fsherman.
I tend toward the other end of that spectrum: One basic style, variations for winged or without, one color change in one size. The #14 plain black is a staple in my fy box all season long.
Starting in midsummer, the #18 fying black ant with a silvery wisp of wing can be a game-saver, especially as the summer warms and the good fshing moves to the higher elevations where fr and pine trees line the rivers.
I used to be reluctant to fsh that small #18 ant, but when I see soft rises but no fies in the middle of a pool where the current gets lazy and the foam
line spreads out, I put it on without hesitation.
And what about small beetles? I don’t know how many of them Ernie Schwiebert could count, but I do know this: The old Jassid beetle pattern in a #18 or #20 represents a lot of them and is a killer. Problem is, the jungle cock feather required for its wing is now forbidden to harvest in the wild. Legal jungle cock is extremely rare, but that’s what makes the fy.
Here’s why: Jungle cock feathers (real ones) refect UV light. Trout can see in the UV spectrum and many little beetle-type bugs refect UV light. The Jassid can be a killer when nothing else is working. It can provide some absurd fshing: Nothing going on, and you tie on a fy you can barely see and hook a fsh too big to handle on your light tippet.
Today those fies would be close to priceless if the truth were told - and if you could fnd any.
I have stash of legal jungle cock squirreled away somewhere. Maybe it’s time…
Sometimes trout prefer a little ant (lower left) to bigger terrestrial patterns. Photo by Chuck Stranahan.
Thomas Celebration of Life
George Thomas Jr., 82, passed away December 20, 2024. A celebration of life will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, August 2, 2025, at Garden City Funeral Home in Missoula, Montana.
Stacy Renee Wiber
Stacy Renee Wiber of Stevensville passed away on June 25, 0225. She is survived by her husband Anthony and two children, Ezekial and Ronin, sister Elaine, brother Raymond, mother Denise and father Raymond Chrisman. She is also stepmother to Anthony, Jacob and Jeremy.
Stacy was a loving and caring wife, mother, friend and member of our community. May the light of her life always shine brightly in our hearts.
Please visit gardencityfh.com for more information.
Roland ‘Woody’ Woodburn
Roland (Woody) Woodburn passed away peacefully at his home, surrounded by family, on Saturday, July 5, 2025.
Woody was born in Erding, Germany, to Alva and Franciska Woodburn on April 3, 1949. The Woodburn family immigrated to America in 1954 and settled in Homedale, Idaho, where Woody spent the remainder of his childhood. At 18, he enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and was stationed at Malmstrom AFB in Great Falls, Montana, where he met and married the love of his life, Pamela Nierstheimer.
Military life took them to many places over his 22-year career, including Panama, Utah, North Dakota, Washington, and California. During those years, they were blessed with four children. Sons Mike and Chris came frst, and Woody was sure their family was complete—until, 13 years later, they were surprised and delighted by the arrival of two daughters, Kaethe and Teryn.
After retiring from the Air Force, Woody’s brother-in-law, Chet Nelson, encouraged him to move to Montana. Taking his advice, Woody, Pam, and their daughters made the Bitterroot Valley their home. Once settled, Woody began a second 22-year career
Brooks Tanner Venema
Our precious son, grandson, nephew, and miracle, Brooks Tanner Venema, passed away in the arms of his loving parents on Saturday, July 5, 2025, at just four months old. Though his time with us was brief, Brooks made an unforgettable impact on all who knew him. He was a light, a fghter, and a reminder of the strength that can exist in even the tiniest of lives.
Brooks was born two months early on February 22, 2025, in Bismarck, North Dakota, weighing only 2.12 pounds. From the very beginning, he showed incredible courage and resilience. Due to his prematurity and fragile condition, Brooks was airlifted to M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital in Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he received expert care in the NICU. It was there that he was diagnosed with a rare genetic condition, Epidermolysis Bullosa, that required intensive treatment and constant support.
Despite every efort and countless prayers, the battle proved too great for Brooks’ tiny body. But he never stopped fghting. And more importantly, he never stopped being loved.
Brooks brought joy in the smallest moments—his eyes lighting up at colorful lights, his calm when cradled close, and the clear delight he took in music and stories read aloud by his parents. He especially loved
Ben Essary
Ben Essary of Stevensville, MT, passed away on December 20, 2024, after a brief illness. He was born on May 10, 1943, in Lexington, TN, to Henry and Addie Essary and was the eldest of four children raised on the family farm.
After graduating from high school, Ben enlisted in the United States Air Force. While stationed at a radar site in northern Montana, he met and married Pamela Alex. During his military service, Ben earned both bachelor's and master's degrees and achieved the rank of Captain. He and Pam welcomed two children, Lisa and Glen, during his Air Force career.
Following twenty-two years of military service, Ben transitioned to a second career in security at Department of Energy facilities in Richland, WA; Aiken, SC; and Idaho Falls, ID. He later served as Vice President at Day & Zimmerman, a government contracting frm. In 1998, Ben retired fully
being held, bounced gently, and hearing songs that soothed his soul. In these quiet, beautiful moments, his family glimpsed the amazing little boy he was and the immense heart he carried.
He was and always will be the beloved son of Olivia and Dante Venema, and the little brother to his fourlegged companion, Voodoo. Brooks is preceded in death by his great-grandparents Jim McVay, Marian Venema, and Ronald Venema.
He is forever cherished by his grandparents: Beth and Bryan McVay, and Nathan and Audrey Venema; great-grandparents Nancy McVay, and Derrel and Renae Spencer; and a wide circle of aunts, uncles, cousins, and family: Bethany (Jack) Montoya, Gabby McVay, Colin McVay, Dalton (Sarah) McVay, Hiliary Venema, Nathan (Joseline) Venema, Ammon Venema, Josh (Jimena) Venema, Ronald Venema, Hope Venema, Drew Venema, Boone Venema, Nick Venema, Tony Venema; cousins Cole McVay, Rebel Venema, Phoenix Venema, and Zuri Venema; and the thousands of friends and extended family who lifted Brooks up in love and prayer during his journey.
Brooks’ life reminds us that love is not measured in time, but in the depth with which it is given and received. He was a warrior with a gentle soul, and though
and settled with Pam in Stevensville, MT.
In retirement, Ben embraced the outdoors through camping, rafting, and fshing. He also enjoyed playing bluegrass music and made many dear friends among fellow bluegrassers. He and Pam cherished their home in the Bitterroot Valley, where they welcomed friends and family over the years.
Ben is survived by his children, Lisa (Mike) Wineke and Glen Essary; his brother Johnny Essary; grandchildren James (Marlene) Armstrong, Joe (Sam) Wineke, Beth Wineke, and Iva Essary; and great-grandchild Lucas Armstrong. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife Pam Essary; his parents Addie and Henry Essary; sisters Judy Hatchett and Joan Hones; and grandson William Hyde.
A celebration of Ben’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on July 26, 2025, at Faith Lutheran Church in Hamilton, MT.
A memorial service will be held on July 22, 2025 at 2:00 pm at Whitesitt Funeral Home, located at 314 Church Street, Stevensville.
The family requests if you have any pictures if you could please print them out and bring them to the service with you.
Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com
with the Bitterroot Irrigation District.
Woody loved the outdoors. In winter, he looked forward to ski trips across the U.S. and Canada with family and friends. In the summer, he enjoyed taking his boat out on the lake to water ski and tow his kids on the inner tube—always trying to get them as airborne as possible. He was always ready to lend a hand with projects and especially loved helping others fnd their idea of the perfect vehicle.
Woody is survived by Pam, his loving wife of 55 years; his beloved children: Mike Woodburn (Marybeth), Chris Woodburn (Nicole), Kaethe Perry (Spencer), and Teryn Root (Lucian); and, most importantly, his 11 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by many nieces, nephews, grandnieces, and grandnephews, as well as his two younger brothers, Mick (Carrie) of Homedale, ID, and Jim (Connie) of Mason City, IA.
Woody was laid to rest in Hamilton, Montana at the Riverview Cemetery on July 12, 2025.
In his memory, we ask that you take a moment to hug your child, grandchild, or friend—or spend some time outdoors, whether for a moment, an hour, or a day.
we only held him for a short while, we will carry him in our hearts forever.
Funeral services for Brooks will be held Saturday, July 19, 2025 11:00 a.m. at Meridian Mortuary in Newcastle, Wyoming. Services will also be livestreamed on the Meridian Mortuary website. Condolences may be sent to the family in care of Meridian Mortuary, 111 S. Railway Ave., Newcastle, WY, 82701 or expressions of sympathy may also be made online at meridianmortuary.com.
“There is no footprint too small to leave an imprint on this world.”
Faye M. Lee
Faye was born in Crosby, North Dakota to Ray and Opal Riveland. She grew up on the family farm by Fortuna with her six siblings. They enjoyed many outdoor activities like skating on the pond behind the house. Growing up she learned how to bake and cook with Opal.
She attended Lincoln Valley Country School and then Crosby High School. She had a tremendous upbringing and family that shaped her into the loving and caring person she was.
After high school, she attended Williston State College for two years and then transferred to the University of North Dakota and earned her degree in library science. Then she went on to teach in Stephen, Minnesota and later in Plentywood and Westby, Montana. Faye met Darryl while curling in Fortuna, North Dakota. Darryl was flling in for Les, Faye’s brother. She would tell us that she is the one that chased him. The two married June 3, 1978. Together they built a life they loved: 47 years and 1 month of marriage, 3 daughters, 6 grandkids, 3 homes, and many business ventures.
June 1981 they welcomed their frst daughter Krystal in Fortuna. Kalynne came along in March of 1983 and Kelsey April of 1984. She never missed a moment to tell people how much she loved her girls and how proud she was of them.
In 1986, she and Darryl started one of many adventures together and moved to Sidney, Montana to open Lee’s Tire and Service Center. Darryl’s brother Duane and wife Karen stayed in Fortuna and ran Lee’s Highway Service. Uniquely, they moved their house from Fortuna to Sidney and created a home she loved. We still wonder how she efortlessly maintained a home, ran the shop with dad, cared for her girls, and still had time to make holidays and events so special. She loved holidays so much. We remember she flled the yard to the brim with Christmas lights. In Sidney, she built many friendships at Pella Lutheran Church and taught Sunday school.
She never failed to support Darryl with his endeavors. In 2002, they sold Lee’s Tire and began a new adventure as Darryl started a career with Hunter Engineering Company. Weeks of training in St. Louis, a temporary residence in the RV at the Gateway Storage in Grand Forks, ND as they searched for a place of
Glen Mikesell
At 95 and ¾ years young, Glen Mikesell lived a life few could match in grit, heart, and joy. He passed peacefully July 10, 2025, leaving behind not just a family who adored him, but a legacy built on hard work, big dreams, smiles, and a whole lot of love.
Glen was born on September 10, 1929, and lived nearly his entire life in the place he cherished most –Florence, Montana. After graduating from Florence Carlton High School, where he earned the Good Citizen Award in 8th grade, Glen married Dolores Mikesell right out of high school. Together, they raised three children – Roger, Joanne, and Kelly – with the same principles he lived by: honesty, toughness, and devotion to family. They built a life rooted in hard work and deep community ties.
Glen was a rancher by trade, and in 1960, he established the Mikesell Ranch in Florence. But his dreams went far beyond fences and pastures. During a high school basketball tournament, Glen’s team stopped at a little restaurant in Butte, Montana, known for serving its own homegrown beef. Glen loved that idea and carried it with him for years, one of his proudest chapters was opening Glen’s Café, a local treasure known far and wide for its legendary pies, classic burgers, and small-town charm. These pies became so renowned they were featured in Geo Magazine and Reader’s Digest, bringing national attention to the little café in Florence. The café also featured its own art gallery, displaying paintings created by his wife, Dolores Mikesell, and their grandson Justin Moore. Their artwork was highlighted in many news articles, and though both artists have since passed, their paintings remain in the café for customers to enjoy while they share a homecooked meal – a legacy of love, creativity, and family woven together.
It isn’t just a café—it is a community hub. The cofee crowd at Glen’s has become a morning tradition, a chosen family, and a place where the door—and the conversation—is always open. Those who keep the stools warm and the cofee fowing are Chuck Fricke, Steve Zugay, Eleanor Becktold, and a rotating crew of neighbors and farmers sharing news, laughs, and life. Glen made sure everyone felt welcome—no titles, no judgment, just strong cofee and stronger bonds.
After Dolores passed, Glen found love again. At the
Death Notices
Corvallis - Donna Bates, 77, passed away at Aaron Care on the afternoon of Friday, July 11, 2025, with her loving family by her side. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com.
their own, hours of bookkeeping to support the business, and some travel on the road with Darryl.
In fall 2003, they moved into their lake home on Lake Ashtabula in Luverne, ND. This became a gathering place for many during summer days and holidays. She loved to host, and her hospitality went above and beyond. She shared her love through baked goods and delicious meals. We will always remember her tearing, pull-aparts, and mufns.
Faye and Darryl welcomed their frst granddaughter in June 2009. They welcomed fve more grandchildren through 2020. Darryl tells the story that while in Luverne, she gave him the choice – we can either travel three weeks out of the month to see the grandkids or we can move to Montana. In December 2014, they bought a home in Florence, Montana.
The moment she walked into the house in Florence, she knew it was the one. In fact, told the realtor it was sold within minutes. This beautiful home became the gathering place for countless family holidays, barbecues, and birthday celebrations. She loved to have people at their home and share her gifts of cooking and baking.
One of her greatest joys was spending time with her grandchildren – her love for them radiated through her entire being. Whether it was celebrating a milestone, cheering them on from the sidelines or attending recitals, she was endlessly proud of each of them.
Another joy in her life was spending time with Darryl at car shows and getting to know others through their love of classic cars. She loved to chat with everyone at shows and even more so enjoyed when they could host the car club at the house with a delicious brunch or barbecue.
In so many diferent ways, Faye would share encouragement with others. Whether it be encouragement for her kids during difcult times, taking extra time to tell the waitress or waiter what a great job they did, or picking out the most perfect greeting cards. She had a heart of gold and we are all so lucky to have had her as a wife, mom, grandmother, sister, sisterin-law, friend, and neighbor. In the summer of 2023, she began her battle with endometrial cancer. On July 3rd, she lost that battle. We fnd comfort in knowing she was exactly where she wanted to be - in the home she loved, surrounded by loved ones. We love you to
spry age of 80, on Valentine’s Day, he married another high school sweetheart, Joan Billingsly. They shared many laughs together, and Joan remained faithfully by his side through his fnal years.
To those who knew him, Glen was tough as nails, a true rancher through and through. His hobbies refected his personality – if it involved a backhoe or a piece of equipment, Glen was content. He found joy in feeding cattle, camping at Lake Five, and simply working hard, right up until the very end.
Beyond his ranching life, Glen served his community as a member of the Florence School Board, always committed to ensuring the next generation had opportunities to succeed.
Glen didn’t just work hard—he lived his dreams. From raising cattle to raising a family, everything he
Hamilton - Constance Jones, 92, passed away at home Wednesday July 9, 2025 after an extended illness, with her family at her side. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com
pieces, Mom. Survived by her husband Darryl Lee, daughters and their husbands Krystal Stewart (Dustin), Kalynne Curley (Clayton), and Kelsey Restemayer (Kevin). Six grandchildren Addison Restemayer, Noah Restemayer, Carter Curley, Norah Stewart, Kennedy Curley, and Willow Stewart. Siblings Gary Riveland (Toni), Jan Olson (Gary), Gail Bjella, and Wayne Riveland (Robin). Preceded in death by her parents Opal and Ray Riveland, and brothers Les Riveland and Neil Riveland.
The family is deeply grateful for the outpouring of love, prayers, and support from countless individuals. We ask in lieu of fowers, a live plant or simply make a donation to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
A celebration of life will take place at 11 a.m. Saturday, July 19th at the Lee residence – 5635 Fairview Lane, Florence, MT. Burial will be at Carlton Cemetery – 20075 Old US Hwy 93, Florence, MT. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.
did was with his whole heart. A true Montana man, Glen was still working the ranch daily—behind the wheel of his backhoe, his excavator, or his signature white monster truck. He wasn’t slowing down; he was living full throttle. He made life look easy, always wearing a smile that could calm a storm and he brought peace just by being present.
His love for his family was deep and unwavering. Whether you were kin by blood or by heart, Glen had room for you—and likely a slice of pie, too.
His legacy lives on through his café and the Cofee Club, his friends, who shared his mornings, his laughter, and his unwavering honesty. And of course, his legacy lives on through his family, his six grandchildren, fourteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom will forever carry his strength, work ethic, and sense of responsibility within them.
He is survived by his wife Joan, children Roger & (Joyce), Joanne & (Bob), and Kelly Jo, and six grandchildren Brian, Holly & (Bryan Garrett), Candi & (Adam) Johnston, Weston, Skylar &(Kari) and Dawson & (Katie), fourteen great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, Edward and Mary Mikesell, Sister Mary-Loe (Sis) and Don Haley, Grandson Justin Moore, Grandchild baby Thrasher, Great Grandson Dalton Garrett and his frst wife, Dolores.
As we say goodbye, we know Glen is reunited with his lifelong friends known as Big Six (Bob and Emmy Porch, Marion and Betty Davis and he and Dolores)–we remember a man who was steadfast, humble, and resilient. He taught us that there is dignity in labor, that the early mornings and long days build more than a ranch – they build character and a life worth living. May we honor Glen by carrying forward his lessons – to work with our hands, stand frm in our beliefs, love our family deeply, and never let go of our dreams, no matter how long they take to build.
Rest well, Glen. You’ve earned it. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, July 17 at 10:00 a.m. at the Florence Carlton Cemetery. A potluck will follow at Glen’s Café. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome. com.
- Max
away Friday morning, July 11, 2025 at St.
following a brief illness, with his family by
side.
and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Donna Bates
Constance Jones
Max Nentwig
Missoula
Nentwig, 92, passed
Patrick Hospital
his
Memories
Hwy 93 work to begin near Corvallis
The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT), along with construction partner Knife River, Inc., will resurface a portion of US Highway 93 (US 93) beginning the week of July 20. The project begins just south of the intersection with Woodside Cutoff Road near mile marker 51.35 and continues north approximately for 2 miles.
Work is scheduled to last for six weeks, depending on the weather
and any other unforeseen factors permitting.
Improvements to this stretch of US 93 will include milling and paving operations. Crews will be working at night from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. Night work minimizes traveler impact as well as total construction time.
Upon completion of the milling and paving operations, crews will return to complete a seal and cover
(chip seal). This work will take place during daytime hours.
While crews are working, travelers can expect reduced speeds and single-lane traffic when traveling through the project area. For the most up-to-date width restrictions and road conditions, visit 511mt. net.
The public is encouraged to contact Joan Redeen at 406-396-1978 with any questions or comments.
For more information about active MDT projects around the state, visit the website and MDT’s fiveyear Tentative Construction Plan. MDT is a workforce of over 2,000 people across Montana determined to do all they can so that you arrive at your destination safely. Their mission is to build, operate, and maintain a safe and resilient transportation system. For more information, visit mdt.mt.gov.
DITCH COSTLY
HEATING BILLS with an EPA certifed Central Boiler Classic Edge Titanium HDX OUTDOOR WOOD FURNACE. Call today for efcient warmth! Axmen 7655 US Hwy 10 W Missoula MT 406-7287020 www.axmenmt.com steve@axmen.com
SWITCH AND SAVE
UP TO $250/YEAR ON YOUR TALK, TEXT AND DATA. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with fexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time ofer - get $50 of on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877324-0193.
CONNECT TO THE BEST WIRELESS HOME INTERNET WITH EARTHLINK. Enjoy speeds from 5Gand 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978.
GET YOUR DEDUCTION AHEAD OF THE YEAR-END! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift,
no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855- 901-2620 today!
IF YOU HAD KNEE OR HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY and sufered an infection due to use of a Bair Hugger (Blue Blanket), between 2020 and the present time, you may be entitled to compensation. Call attorney Charles H. Johnson 800/535-5727
PORTABLE OXYGEN CONCENTRATOR May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-7621508
SAFE STEP. NORTH AMERICA’S #1 WALK-IN TUB. Comprehensive lifetime warranty.Top-of-theline installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Of for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-6012865.
FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back! $5.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star ofce,
115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville.
CAUCASIAN SHEPHERD Puppies pure bred , 7 available, three male, four female, ready mid July. Guard livestock/family. Call or text 406-2104807
HUGE YARD SALE
July 18-19-20, 8 AM-12 NOON. 610 Fescue Slope, Florence (of Hidden Valley Rd, watch for signs). Horse tack, saddles, blankets, new headstalls, lots of misc. horse items. Stationary massage table, antiques, garden items, dog crates, homeschool items for high school students, lots of household and clothes.
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
ROOM FOR RENT. Bed, dresser, TV, small fridge, includes utilities, common areas, kitchen use. Hamilton. $350/ month. Call or text (406) 880-8351.
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.
TO GIVE AWAYElectric Kenmore Sewing Machine, older. In nice wooden cabinet. Needs cleaning and some adjustment. Also canning jars. Hamilton, 406-363-0919.
FOR RENT: 1 BDRM APT. FULLY FURNISHED utilities/trash paid. Rural Stevensville, very quiet neighborhood. $1500 per month, on month to month contract. Deposits required: Security $400, Cleaning $300. 406-5501289/208-827-3101.
Legal Notices
NOTICE OF PENDING
ATTACHMENT OF A TAX
LIEN (MCA 15-17-122)
On Thursday, August 1, 2025, by 5:00 pm, the Ravalli County Treasurer will attach a property tax lien to property on which the 2023 taxes are delinquent. The delinquent taxes, including penalties, interest and costs are a lien upon the property and that unless delinquent taxes, penalties, interest and costs are paid prior to August 1, 2024 a tax lien will be attached and may be assigned to a third party.
A complete list of all property on which taxes are delinquent is on fle in the ofce of the Ravalli County Treasurer and is open to public inspection and examination on Monday thru Friday from 8:15 am to 5 pm.
For further information, please contact the Ravalli County Treasurer at 215 S. 4th St., Suite H, Hamilton MT 59840 or at 406-375-6580.
BS 6-25, 7-2, 7-9, 7-1625. MNAXLP
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840
Phone: (406) 363-9060
Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH MARTIN NUXOLL, Deceased. Case No.: DP-41-20250000075-11
Dept. No. 02 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have been appointed Co-Personal Representatives 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 Thomas E. Nuxoll and Lynn E. Boehm, the Co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED the 23rd day of June 2025. /s/ Thomas E. Nuxoll, Co-Personal Representative /s/ Lynn E. Boehm, Co-Personal Representative BS 7-2, 7-9, 7-16-25. MNAXLP
Kyle J. Workman State Bar No. 65442127 WORKMAN LAW, PLLC P.O. Box 1167 Hamilton, MT 59840 T: (406) 802-2198 kyle@workmanlawmt.
com Attorney for Plaintifs MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY ALBERT MAGOON AND LENA MAGOON Plaintifs, vs. SOREN SORENSEN (DECEASED), THE ESTATE OF SOREN SORENSEN, AND ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS, UNKNOWN HEIRS, OR ANY UNKNOWN DEVISEES OF ANY DECEASED PERSON, 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 PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE
THERETO, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendant. Cause No. DV-41-2025-
0000180-QT Dept. No.: 2
SUMMONS THE STATE OF MONTANA TO ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY INTEREST IN OR LIEN UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THIS SUMMONS OR ANY PART OF THE REAL PROPERTY, DEFENDANTS, GREETING:
You are required to appear and answer the complaint of Albert and Lena Magoon, Plaintifs, fled with the Clerk of this Court, within 60 days after the frst publication of this summons, and set forth what interest or lien, if any, you have in or upon that certain real property or any part of the real property situated in the county of Ravalli, state of Montana, particularly described as follows:
A tract of land in the SE1/4NW1/4 of Section 30, Township 8 North, Range 20 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana, and being more particularly described as:
Beginning at a point 1840 feet North of the northeast corner of Lot 11, Block 2, in the Town of Victor, known as Appolonio, Watters & Co., corner thence running 16 rods West, thence running 10 rods North, thence running 16 rods East and thence South 10 rods to the place of beginning.
Deed Ref.: 198-4 TOGETHER WITH a portion of land adjacent to the relocated boundary line as shown on the plat of Hochhalter Subdivision as recorded March 3, 2002 in Instrument No. 492536.
EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lot I, Hochhalter Subdivision, as recorded March 5, 2002 in Instrument No. 492537.
You are further notifed that, unless you appear and answer, the Plaintifs will apply to the court for the relief demanded in the complaint.
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this day of June 20, 2025. Paige Trautweine CLERK OF COURT By: Catherine DiGleria Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-2, 7-9, 7-16, 7-23, 7-30-25.
MNAXLP
Kyle J. Workman
State Bar No. 65442127 WORKMAN LAW, PLLC P.O. Box 1167 Hamilton, MT 59840
T: (406) 802-2198 kyle@workmanlawmt. com
Attorney for Plaintifs MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY ALBERT MAGOON AND LENA MAGOON , Plaintifs, vs. SOREN SORENSEN (DECEASED), THE ESTATE OF SOREN SORENSEN, AND ALL UNKNOWN OWNERS, UNKNOWN HEIRS, OR ANY UNKNOWN DEVISEES OF ANY DECEASED PERSON, 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 PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE THERETO, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendant.
Cause No. DV-41-20250000180-QT Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE under 70-28208, MCA
COMES NOW Plaintifs Albert and Lena Magoon, by and through undersigned counsel, Kyle J. Workman, of Workman Law PLLC, and hereby gives notice pursuant to 70-28-208, MCA, that the following
individuals, that as heirs of Soren Sorenson may have a claim to the property at issue.
Aksel James Sorensen 110 Church St. Stevensville, MT 59870
Nathan Kelley Sorensen PO Box 951 Wells, NV 89835
DATED this 20th day of June 2025.
Respectfully Submitted, WORKMAN LAW, PLLC /s/ Kyle J. Workman
Attorney for Plaintifs BS 7-2, 7-9, 7-16, 7-23, 7-30-25. MNAXLP
Daniel Browder, Esq. BROWDER LAW, PLLC 217 N. 3rd St., Ste. J Hamilton, MT 59840
Phone: 406-361-3677
Fax: 406-361-2999
Email: browderlawmont@gmail.com
Attorney for Andrea Poulin
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN DAVID MUOIO, Deceased. Cause No. DP-2025-50
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, Andrea Poulin, return receipt requested, ℅: Browder Law PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 24th day of June, 2025.
BROWDER LAW, PLLC
/s/ Daniel Browder
Attorney for Andrea Poulin, Personal Representative BS 7-2, 7-9, 7-16-25.
MNXLP
NOTICE OF RFQ TO PROVIDE LEGAL SERVICES AS THE TOWN PROSECUTOR
The Town of Stevensville is currently advertising for the following request for qualifcations, Town Prosecutor for the Town of Stevensville’s City Court. Interested attorneys can fnd additional information about the RFQ on the Town of Stevensville website or by contacting the town clerk, 406-777-5271 Ext. 102
https://www.townofstevensville.com/rfps Position is open until flled.
Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 7-9, 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
LEGAL NOTICE
The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a public hearing for a Ravalli County Open Lands Bond project on Tuesday, July 29, 2025 at 1:30 P.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room (Third Floor) of the County Administrative Building located at 215 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The project is called Erickson Conservation Easement (239.24 acres). The project is located about two miles northeast of downtown Corvallis. Tax IDs: 101300, 104500, 49400, and 495500.
Bitter Root Land Trust is the applicant. Information describing the proposals are available for inspection on the Ravalli County website at https://ravalli. us/181/Open-Lands-Board and at the Planning Department, located at the County
Administrative Building, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. Written comments are encouraged to be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the public hearing and will be forwarded to the BCC for consideration at the public hearing. The public may comment verbally or in writing at the hearings. Comments and information submitted at the public hearing will be considered in the decision. Submit email comments to: planning@rc.mt.gov, and questions can be asked by phone at 406-375-6530. BS 7-9, 7-16-25.
MNAXLP
LEGAL NOTICE The Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will hold a continuance of the June 3rd, 2025 public hearing to resume review of Wireless Communication Facility Permit Application (WCFP24-10) on July 30th, 2025 at 1:30pm. The Continuance hearing is located in the County Administrative Center (BCC Conference Room, 3rd Floor, Hamilton). The Ravalli County Planning Department received WCFP-24-10 on September 4th, 2024. The Applicant is Vertical Bridge Holding LLC, representing T-Mobile. The application is proposing a new wireless communication tower at 302 Black Bear Lane, Hamilton, MT 59840. A previous application (WCFP-23-02) proposing a wireless communication tower at 302 Black Bear Lane, Hamilton, MT 59840 was denied by Ravalli County due to lack of evidence to meet the spacing requirement exception defned under Section 4.C of the Ravalli County Wireless Communication Facility Ordinance No. 13 (WCFO). The Ravalli County Planning Department deemed Application (WCFP-24-10) sufcient on March 14th, 2025 as it contains all the required materials required by the WCFO. The application has now been forwarded onto the Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) for their consideration, specifcally, the spacing exception as described in Section 4.C of the WCFO. Two previous public hearings were held on April 11th, 2025 and June 3rd, 2025 Information describing the proposal is available for inspection at the Planning Department, in the County Administrative Center, 215 S. 4th St., Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. The Planning Department Staf Report is posted on our website here: https://ravalli.us/179/ Zoning. At the last hearing (June 3rd, 2025), the BCC voted to close Written Public Comment on June 13th, 2025. If you have comments or concerns, you are encouraged to attend the July 30th, 2025 continuance hearing described above. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the BCC may make a fnal decision on the proposal. For questions, please contact the Ravalli County Planning Department at 406-375-6530 or Planning@ rc.mt.gov BS 7-9, 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BONNIE D. ZACHA, Deceased. Case No.: DP-41-202578 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the under-
signed 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 D. Edel Howard, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.
DATED this 1st day of July 2025. /s/ D. Edel Howard, Personal Representative BS 7-9, 7-16, 7-23-25. MNAXLP
John D. Greef
Attorney at Law PO Box 1926 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-8117
Attorney for Plaintif MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY
H. JAMES THAYER, Plaintif vs. Novastar Home Mortgage, Inc., a Delaware Corporation, 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 thereto, whether such claim or possible claim be present or contingent, Defendants. Case No.: DV-25-206 Department No. 1 SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION THE STATE OF MONTANA TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS AND ALL OTHER PERSONS UNKNOWN: GREETINGS: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action which is fled in the ofce of the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to fle your answer and sere copy thereof, upon the Plaintif’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this Summons for Publication, 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 Complaint.
This action is brought for the purpose of quieting title to the land situated in Ravalli County, State of Montana, described as follows:
A tract of land in Government Lot 3, Section 30, Township 8 North, Range 20 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana and being more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at a point that is 40 feet West and 40 feet North of Northwest corner of Block 19, Townsite of Victor, Ravalli County, Montana, being the center of the intersection of A Street and Seventh Avenue according to recorded plat thereof, thence from said point of beginning North 320 feet; thence West 663 feet to Easterly line of a public road; thence South along said road a distance of 510 feet; thence East 274.5 feet to the North-South center line of B Street; thence North 190 feet to East-West center line of Seventh Avenue; thence East 360 feet to the point of beginning. Deed Reference: Document No. 515687 WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 13th day of June, 2025. Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court by: Catherine diGleria Deputy Clerk BS 7-9, 7-16, 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
PUBLIC NOTICE OF DISPOSAL OF TOWN PROPERTY Town of Stevensville will conduct the disposal of town property, a Tennant 830XP Street Sweeper. The Street Sweeper is inoperable. The property will be disposed of through Resolution No. 570 at the July 24, 2025, town council meeting at 6:30 pm. Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 7-9, 7-23-25. MNAXLP
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 406-3637484.
BS 7-16, 7-13, 7-30, 8-6, 8-13-25.
MNAXLP
CANYON CREEK IRRIGATION 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
AUDIT PUBLICATION STATEMENT
An audit of the Town of Darby has been conducted by Denning, Downey & Associates, CPA’s, P.C. The audit covered the fscal year ended June 30, 2024. Section 2-7-521, MCA, requires the publication of the following summary of signifcant fndings. Summary of Signifcant Findings
The audit report for the Town of Darby for the fscal year ended June 30, 2024, were unmodifed. The audit report also contained several other auditor’s reports. Following is a list of the reports and a summary of the fndings included in each. This is only a summary and is not intended to be used as an audit report.
1. Report on Compliance and on Internal Control Over Financial Reporting Based on an Audit of Financial Statements Performed in Accordance with Government Auditing Standards. This report contained fndings in the following matters: a. 2024-001 Cash and Cash Reconciliation/Balancing b. 2024-002Segregation of Accounting Duties c. 2024-003 Management Discussion and Analysis Completeness d. 2024-004Build America Bond Compliance
2. Report on Other Compliance, Financial and Internal Accounting Control Matters. This report contained no fndings.
3. Report on Audit Report Recommendations. This report summarized the fndings from the prior audit report, and noted the action taken on them.
a. 2023-001 Segregation of Accounting Duties (Repeat) b. 2023-002 Payroll Controls (Implemented) c. 2023-003 Management’s Discussion and Analysis Completeness (Repeated) d. 2023-004 Build America Bond Compliance (Repeated) Public Inspection of Audit Report
The complete audit report is on fle in its entirety and open to public inspection at Town Hall.
Tammy Stuart - Clerk/ Treasurer Town of Darby BS 7-16-25. MNAXLP
