The S&W Sawmill Facility (S&W Facility), located about a half-mile north of Darby, is regulated as a Comprehensive Environmental Cleanup and Responsibility Act (CECRA), or “State Superfund,” facility. Currently, investigation and cleanup are being addressed by the lead liable party, the International Paper Company (IPC), under the oversight of Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). IPC is in the feasibility study work plan (FSWP) phase of the State Superfund process, which serves as a roadmap for evaluating appropriate cleanup options.
Recently, additional groundwater and surface water sampling activities were performed to the north and east of the facility. Additional monitoring wells were installed along U.S. Highway 93 to monitor for pentachlorophenol (PCP) and dioxins/furans, the primary contaminants at the former S&W site. The additional investigations have led DEQ to require IPC to perform additional investigations of the Hatch Waste Ditch and adjacent areas.
Investigations at the S&W Facility have determined that as contaminated groundwater travels away from the S&W Facility toward the northeast, it surfaces east of U.S. Highway 93 and the Overturf Ditch in the area designated above in the fgure as the Overturf Seep area. This water moves north via a culvert to a pond on the northeast corner of the Darby Distribution property. Based on the pond’s location and the observed fow direction of groundwater from the S&W Facility, this pond likely interacts with the contaminated groundwater. Surface water from this pond overfows into the Hatch Waste Ditch and fows north for about a half-mile. DEQ has required IPC to collect surface water, sediment and soil samples on properties adjacent to the ditch.
According to DEQ Environmental Project Offcer Robert Roll, that sampling has been underway for the past week. If there is water fowing in the ditch this fall, additional sampling may be conducted.
Once IPC completes the investigation activities, DEQ anticipates that IPC will be able to complete FSWP activities and progress toward completing the feasibility study portion of the State Superfund process. Once a feasibility study is complete, DEQ will prepare the Proposed Plan and identify DEQ’s preferred remedy for cleanup. The Proposed Plan will be made available for review and public comment. Upon completion of the public comment period, DEQ will evaluate comments received, make any necessary changes to the fnal
remedy, and issue the Record of Decision (ROD). The ROD is DEQ’s fnal selection of the remedy for cleaning up a facility. IPC will implement the actions detailed in the ROD and will prepare documents outlining the implementation strategy and specif-
Wildfire Smoke Relief Program 2025
In response to the increasing health hazard from wildfire smoke in the Bitterroot Valley, Bitterroot Climate Action Group (BCAG) announces the availability of 56 factory-refurbished Winix c545 HEPA portable room air filtration units for distribution at no charge to the elderly, households with young or vulnerable children and individuals with respiratory health conditions who cannot afford to purchase such units. The units were purchased with funds from private donations to BCAG and a grant from the Rapp Family Foundation. Recipients must be residents of Ravalli County and complete an application. To apply for a unit by phone, contact our volunteer program coordinator Sarah
(406-381-6226) or apply online at hepa@bitterrootcag.org. Units will be delivered to applicants as required, and a pickup day will be arranged for those with transportation.
Bitterroot Climate Action Group is a local nonprofit organization working locally on ways we can adapt to climate change and build a more sustainable community. To learn more about BCAG’s programs and activities visit https://bitterrootcag.org.
BCAG extends sincere thanks to the Rapp Family Foundation for their generous support of this program.
For more information pertaining to this release: Hillery Daily, Co-Chair, Bitterroot Climate Action Group, 406-821-4523.
Appropriations bill including Ravalli County projects advances
Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke released this statement after Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill passed full committee markup last Thursday. As a member of the Appropriations Committee and THUD subcommittee, Zinke has an early hand in crafting the bill. The bill is next headed to the House floor for a vote.
“Not every dollar spent by D.C. is a waste, much of it is needed investment and infrastructure is investments. The Montana investments secured in this year’s transportation appropriations bill includes some of my top priorities. These are projects I’ve been working on with community leaders and county commissioners for months and in some case years,” said Zinke. “Noxon Bridge has holes the size of trash can
lids, and Pyramid Lumber shut down largely because of the lack of infrastructure to support housing in Seeley Lake. These funds are desperately needed, and our communities won’t be ignored any longer. I’m glad to see this bill move out of committee and head to the House floor for a vote.”
Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding Requests included in the bill:
• $10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant
• $2,500,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement Project Phase 1
• $2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant
• $454,000 for Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion
• $1,150,000 for repaving Marten Creek Road
• $1,000,000 for Flathead County North Fork Road guardrails
• $1,000,000 for Groff Lane Bridge Replacement
• $1,000,000 for Old Corvallis Road Repair
Since 1979, Coach Frank McCarthy has trained athletes for success on and off of the basketball court. As a former Division I coach, McCarthy has designed a unique and educational week-long camp that is
To show its appreciation
Local senior takes advantage of the program. Photo courtesy Bitterroot Climate Action Group.
The Sharrott Creek Fire, near Stevensville, lat year. Bitterroot Star File photo.
Appropriations bill including Ravalli County projects advances
Western Montana Congressman Ryan Zinke released this statement after Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Bill passed full committee markup last Thursday. As a member of the Appropriations Committee and THUD subcommittee, Zinke has an early hand in crafting the bill. The bill is next headed to the House foor for a vote.
“Not every dollar spent by D.C. is a waste, much of it is needed investment
and infrastructure is investments. The Montana investments secured in this year’s transportation appropriations bill includes some of my top priorities. These are projects I’ve been working on with community leaders and county commissioners for months and in some case years,” said Zinke. “Noxon Bridge has holes the size of trash can lids, and Pyramid Lumber shut down largely because of the lack of infrastructure to support housing in Seeley Lake. These funds are desperately
needed, and our communities won’t be ignored any longer. I’m glad to see this bill move out of committee and head to the House foor for a vote.”
Congressman Zinke’s Community Project Funding Requests included in the bill:
• $10,000,000 for the Seeley Lake Wastewater Treatment Plant
• $2,500,000 for the Sanders County Noxon Bridge Replacement Project Phase 1
SAPPHIRE: child care center looking
Continued from page 1
Edie McLean, state licenser, who helped them with everything as they replaced staff and made improvements.
“She was just incredibly helpful and supportive in every way,” said Devlin.
Now the board has hired a new director and is ready to tell the community about the opportunities available at SELC.
“We’re moving forward, learning from what we were and becoming better,” says board member Julie Ludington. “Our management is more intentional.”
SELC has hired Kelsey Mayhan as director. Mayhan is an experienced educator, having taught middle school for eight years. She’s now boning up on the administrative side of things, working with Alyssa Fusco who provides free support for childcare providers through a state-funded program called SPARK. Fusco is helping Mayhan get up to speed on areas such as licensing requirements, handling student and staff files, and billing software. Mayhan is also working with Jason Nitschke of Montana Zero to Five, which provides free business support, such as best practices and budgeting training.
for staff training to help elevate the environment so it’s engaging for every developmental level.
“The importance of that,” says Devlin, “is that this isn’t just a daycare.”
The facility space is divided by age groups, with a teacher and assistant teacher in each room, all certified by the state. All staff members have upto-date CPR and first aid training. All workers, even volunteers, are federally background checked and fingerprinted. SELC also has a video surveillance system in place, which parents are free to look at.
SELC is the only licensed early education center in the north valley.
• $2,500,000 for the Ravalli County Wastewater Treatment Plant
• $454,000 for Rural Airport Reconstruction and Emergency Services Expansion
• $1,150,000 for repaving Marten Creek Road
• $1,000,000 for Flathead County North Fork Road guardrails
• $1,000,000 for Grof Lane Bridge Replacement
• $1,000,000 for Old Corvallis Road Repair
According to Devlin, SELC’s tuition is comparable to other childcare providers
“Our mission, in a nutshell is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, and to be a community resource.”
Mayhan has also applied for SELC to be part of an infant and early childhood mental health consultation program, and
- Jaime Devlin
in the area. For example, infant to 2-years-old is $275 per week; 3-years-old and up is $250 per week.
That includes breakfast, lunch and snacks, as well as diapers, wipes and formula. They offer free pickup from school. They take children on the holidays when schools are closed, and also on Fridays when 4-day schools aren’t open. Hours are 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m, with plans to expand to 6 p.m. State-funded scholarships are available for families that qualify.
of help from volunteers. Volunteers do all the maintenance. Volunteers recently built planter boxes so the children can grow vegetables. Volunteers also recently installed a new playground structure, and provide storytelling and music sessions with the kids.
“It feels positive and inviting to be here,” says Mayhan, whose two-yearold daughter attends SELC. “I really care about this place. I believe in the future of our facility.”
“Our cost is comparable, but we provide so many added benefits,” says Devlin, mentioning speech therapy and occupational therapy – such as how to wipe after using the bathroom – as examples. A lot of emphasis is placed on kindergarten-readiness and collaboration between teachers of the various age groups.
Mayhan said that, although she’s currently putting in a lot of time setting up the necessary business systems, her ultimate goal is to “spend time in the classrooms, training teachers, and building curriculum.” She’s also creating a part-time position for an assistant director, to do some of the staf management and ofce work.
“It’s just a pretty exciting time here, for sure,” said Mayhan.
Currently, there are about 30 children attending SELC, which is about half the capacity. Enrollment is open now for full-time child care, the summer program, and after-school care. For more information, call 406625-2660 or visit www.sapphireearlylearningcenter.com.
“We have amazing children here, and the parents have been so supportive,” said Devlin.
According to Mayhan, not one family left following the aforementioned incident.
“Sometimes it takes a bad thing to make something good happen,” said Devlin.
“Our mission, in a nutshell,” says Devlin, “is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, and to be a community resource.”
SELC gets a lot
“This has all meshed nicely,” said Ludington. “We didn’t have to kiss a bunch of frogs frst. I’m excited for what we’ve begun building. I’ve been on this board from the beginning. It just feels diferent now. What I feel now is so positive and bright.”
A bright and colorful classroom space at Sapphire Early Learning Center. Photo by Victoria Howell.
Theme:
Friday, August 1st
3 pm - 10 pm
Main Street
Kids Parade ● 6 pm Shane Clouse ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Lewis & Clark Park River City Rhythm ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Saturday, August 2nd
9 am - 10 pm
Main Street Grand Parade ● 11 am (line up starts at 9 am at Stevi High)
Lewis & Clark Park 406 ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Local Brewery: Blacksmith Brewing Company
Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival 2025
by John Dowd
The Hard Times Bluegrass Festival is a seasonal favorite for many in the area. For those seeking an old-time country vibe, and a relaxed atmosphere surrounded by music and family, it is hard to beat the Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival which takes place at the Highland Ranch south of Hamilton. This year the festival dates are July 25-27.
Mike Conroy, and his wife Tari Conroy, have been organizing the event for 16 years, and this year Mike thinks this will be their biggest yet. They will have 14 bands this go-around, more than ever before. Mike wanted to highlight four new bands. These will include “Blue Point,” a band of young people from Missoula who Mike said, “play that old time bluegrass surprisingly well.” Another will be “Release The Squirrels,” a group of musicians from Missoula and Bozeman. The festival will also feature “A Well Beaten Path” from Helena that will be one of the festival’s headliners. Finally, Mike highlighted a new duet, “Mark and Ron.”
Mike is excited for these new bands, and all the regulars. The bands come from all over, with one as far away as Nashville, Tennessee.
For Mike and Tari, this festival has been a long time dream. They always thought it would be fun to start an “old-style” bluegrass festival, up in the hills with one microphone, on an old wooden stage. This is exactly what the festival has become, now 16 years in.
Mike described the event as a family-friendly festival, and said it is truly in a beautiful location at the Highlands’ Ranch. According to Mike, a person can
look right up and see the mountains. “It’s pretty impressive,” said Mike.
The space has lots of shade, and a breeze that fows through, so Mike said it always feels a bit cooler than in Hamilton proper. The space even has a fowing ditch, about a foot across, that babbles behind the audience seating. Mike said the stream is a “big hit with the kids and the dogs.” Dogs are allowed, but they must be on a leash.
There will be food vendors on site, and Mike advised visitors to bring their own lawn chairs, as there is no established seating.
Camping opens Thursday morning, July 24, at 8 a.m. Sunday morning there is always a two-hour open gospel stage, which Mike said is one of his favorite parts of the festival. Anyone can come up and play, and bands can pre-register. They also have back up bands so the music keeps on playing.
One of the joys for Mike is that this is truly an “old-time” bluegrass festival, not anything new-aged or “jam-grass.” According to Mike, there are not many other festivals that he knows of around that can say that.
The festival will be located 10 miles south of Hamilton, turning of Hwy 93 at mile marker 37. The address is 424 Forest Hill Road, Hamilton.
Adult weekend tickets are $40, and children for the weekend are $20. Ages six and under enter free. A day pass for Friday or Saturday runs $25 for an adult and $12 for children under 18. Sunday day pass tickets are $15 for adults and $7 for children. Camping is $15. For more information, interested parties can visit hardtimesbluegrass.com or call (406) 821-3777.
Third Annual Writers Day, hopsted by Bitterroot Heritage Civic Group
The Bitterroot Heritage Civic Group in Darby is pleased to announce its sponsorship of another authors’ gathering, to be held at Main Street Park on August 9th. The authors will begin to read a short excerpt from their books at 10:00 and continue until 2:00 p.m. hearing the authors read gives the reader an entirely different view of the intended content. Books will be for sale and can be autographed on site.
The event has been a great success in the past. Along with exposure it gives the authors an opportunity to share information. Many told us
that they appreciate the one-of-a-kind opportunity. There will also be vendors on site. Several of them are members of our group and some proceeds will go to BHCG for future events. If you are a Montana author or vendor that would like to attend, please contact Gay Findley at 406-531-4172. Spaces are $20.00 : bring a table and chair.
Books by various authors in attendance. Photo Courtesy Gay Finley.
Festival organizers Mike and Tari Conroy sit at left and right, respectively, of festival site
landowner Janice Heiland. Photo courtesy Mike Conroy.
Trump’s actions
I thought it would be interesting to take a look at some of the actions taken by Donald Trump and his Republican supporters in Congress since his inauguration in January.
1. Medicaid…cutting almost $1 trillion from the Medicaid budget will jeopardize the health benefts of our most needy citizens and possibly lose our only hospital in Ravalli County!
2. SNAP… cutting $186 billion from this food assistance program (formerly “Food Stamps”) will put millions of our fellow citizens further into “food insecurity”. Are you one of them?
3. Tax breaks for the wealthy… as if they need it! Taking money from the bottom 10% of our population and giving it to the top 10%…for what purpose?
4. USAID… eliminating a worldwide health benefts program which cost a tiny fraction of our national budget but has done so much good for so many people over the last 50 years. Just mean-spirited! Why?
5. Firing Federal Workers… thousands upon thousands of federal worker’s jobs eliminated from the department of defense, the justice department, the state department, and our own local Rocky Mountain Lab and Forest Service, due to Elon Musk’s DOGE… all at the direction of Donald Trump! As the song goes,” You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone.”
6. Department of Education… elimination of the DOE, I predict, will lead to the “dumbing down” of America. There will be no enforcement of any standards once “private schools” are allowed to operate without any requirements or accountability. Linda McMahon, current secretary of education, does not know the diference between AI and A1 steak sauce!
7. Cutting school breakfast and lunch programs begun in 1946 by President Harry Truman… as a school superintendent in Pennsylvania recently said, “Schools need more resources and funding to cover the cost of providing these healthy meals. Any reduction in funding will have a negative impact on schools if you increase the cost of these programs at all.” Ravalli County schools rely on these breakfast and lunch programs… and Pres TACO just eliminated them!
8. Elimination of Inspector Generals from various departments… these “watchdogs” were responsible for making sure that funds were spent properly and within budgetary guidelines. Trump has eliminated these positions and put his own cronies in charge.
9. ICE… Immigration and Customs Enforcement. With the new “BBB” in place, ICE will become the largest law-enforcement agency in the country. Their sole mission is to capture and remove brown and black people whether they are legal immigrants or not and send them to far of countries for an undetermined length of time without any charges being pressed against them or any intercession by any court of law. ICE is picking people up of the street (they were spotted here in Ravalli County recently, so beware!), hauling them away without any notice to their families, and shipping them to far of countries like South Sudan, Eswatini (formally Swaziland), and El Salvador for an indeterminate amount of time with no recourse!
10. Gutting the funds for NPR/PBS and foreign aid… America has always been known for our generosity in helping other countries develop their social, cultural, and economic programs. Sure, some of the programs we have supported seem frivolous, but this program has always benefted the USA, both politically and morally. Cutting NPR/ PBS funds is another attempt by Trump to
Opinion
“dumb down” American citizens. The less news we receive about what is going on in the country, the less he will have to account for!
So, is this the country that we voted for? Is this the country that we want to be known for? Is this the country that we want to pass on to our children?
Whether a Christian, a Jew, a Muslim, an Atheist or an Agnostic, we should be outraged by the actions of our President and his supporters in the House of Representatives and the Senate for ripping the soul out of America! Senators Daines and Sheehy, Representatives Zinke and Downing, and all the Republican members of Congress have sold their souls for one smile from President Trump!
You should be ashamed of yourselves!
Where does all this leave our country?
Thomas Tunny Hamilton
The VIP photo-op nobody asked for
Here’s the setting: A couple of weeks ago, two self-important politicos roll into the Corvallis Firehouse—Attorney General Knudsen and Rep. Kathy Love—ready to “address the public.” But here’s the twist… the actual public wasn’t invited.
Instead, it was a cozy little gathering for the county’s “chosen ones”—a few commissioners, a couple sherif’s department reps, and maybe a stray intern or two. Total audience? About 25. Yup, 25.
That’s who Knudsen drove four hours from Helena to impress. Must’ve been a slow day at the Capitol… or maybe someone just needed a fresh photo for campaign mailers.
(Maybe he was invited to Senator Theresa Manzella’s house for a gathering later that day too? You know... hangout with other elites?)
A few local citizens caught wind of the hush-hush event and showed up uninvited—how rude of them to think public ofcials should meet with, well, the public. The question buzzing around the room: Why was Knudsen here? Simple. Photo op. Smile, wave, and drive home.
And then there’s Rep. Kathy Love, who was recently called out by Americans for Prosperity for claiming to represent HD85 while voting against funding public schools—including the ones in her own district.
Her defense? She “held the line” on taxes. Translation: she blocked eforts to fx Corvallis’s crumbling school infrastructure while congratulating herself for it. Bold move.
And now she is running for the senate? Watching Kathy Love leap from the Montana House to the State Senate is like watching someone hop from a sinking rowboat onto a rickety yacht. It didn’t take her long to learn how to engage in a self-serving efort since 2024.
She hasn’t served anyone or even the Corvallis school district that could have used her help so they didn’t have to beg for funds to repair their kitchen and feed kids.
Did Rep. Love ever stop by the schools in her district to ask the superintendents how things were going? Not that anyone’s heard. But hey, she’s got great photos with commissioners and a head full of excuses.
Keep smiling for the cameras, Kathy. The district’s still waiting for results.
Helen Sabin Corvallis
Sheep Creek Mine
The Sheep Creek mine project at the
head of the West Fork could hardly be in a riskier place. Of course, US Critical Materials did not pick that spot for a rare earth elements deposit, nor did they have anything to say about other minerals in the matrix rock and associated with the rare earth elements in the ore veins.
One of those minerals is actinolite, a close relative of tremolite that killed over 400 people around Libby’s vermiculite mine. Both are asbestos in their fbrous form. Libby’s tremolite asbestos lurked in the shadows for decades until some determined citizens brought the hidden killer to light.
Possible actinolite asbestos was a topic of passionate concern associated with the Skalkaho vermiculite mine near Hamilton in 1999. The question of asbestos was not addressed by ofcials until the mine was almost permitted. The Bitterroot NF completed a Final EIS before belatedly deciding to require a Supplemental EIS to evaluate potential for asbestos exposure. The mining company folded before testing.
Roadside Geology of Montana states, “Several early attempts to mine vermiculite in the Skalkaho intrusion went poorly. While at one time that seemed unfortunate, now it’s clear that we narrowly escaped having another major [asbestos related] environmental disaster.”
To be clear, nobody knows if there is asbestos at Sheep Creek.
But there is good reason to suspect asbestos may be there. Geologists at Montana Tech report that actinolite is one of the most common matrix minerals in the host rock, and the veinlets containing ore are “actinolite-rich.” The Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology Crowley Bulletin reports actinolite at Sheep Creek “forms masses of radiating fbers surrounding other crystals.”
US Critical Materials has sampled ore for several years and tested for a long list of analytes. Why not test for asbestos? The sooner the better to allow for informed agency management and avoid spreading asbestos around if it’s there.
Asbestos exposure happens by breathing contaminated dust, which is very hard to contain and clean up. Mining is dusty business.
Contact BNF Supervisor Matt Anderson matthew.anderson3@usda.gov and Ranger Dan Plileydaniel.pliley@ usda.gov about possible asbestos at Sheep Creek.
Larry Campbell Darby
Support for Trump
Well, President Trump has been in ofce for about six months. Time to take a reading on what he has accomplished. He campaigned on certain issues—issues the American people agreed with and wanted implemented. They hired him with their votes and hoped he would keep his word.
He closed the border. Unfortunately Biden has let over 20 million strangers in, many of them hardened criminals, drug dealers and terrorists. Border closed, but getting rid of undesirables is the next major hurdle. Why are people impeding this process instead of embracing it?
No men in women’s sports. Done except for a few places where morons are in charge.
No tax on tips or overtime.
Lower taxes.
Lower infation, lower prices on many things, including eggs and gas.
Working very hard to stop world wars. Iran no longer a nuclear threat to all.
Bring manufacturing back to the USA Weed out waste, fraud, and abuse.
DOGE pointed out trillions, and Trump is trying---but the politicians have been so long at the free feed trough, it’s tough going.
President Trump is not perfect, and he makes mistakes at times, but his administration is very transparent. He does a good job of righting wrongs, and of listening to the people who elected him. You may not always agree with him, but you sure know where he stands, and what he is thinking. He loves this country, and everything he does is FOR the good of the United States. He is the frst president in my lifetime to actually do what he said he was going to do. I appreciate his job performance and am glad we hired him!
Jane Lambert Stevensville
Clarifcation on food bank
Thanks to Hazel Smith who wrote a very supportive letter (Star, 7/9) for Stevensville Pantry Partners. As President of the Pantry Board, I feel compelled to clarify one of her stated points. The Montana Food Bank Network (MFBN) will continue to provide and deliver food to their afliates, including Pantry Partners.
MFBN is Montana’s only statewide food bank and member of Feeding America. MFBN serves 330 Network Partners that include community food banks, pantries, schools, senior centers, and shelters to end hunger in Montana. MFBN’s hunger relief programs include BackPack, Child Nutrition, Hunters Against Hunger, Mail-a-Meal, Retail Food Rescue, and SNAP outreach. MFBN advocates for long-term policy solutions to strengthen public nutrition programs and address the root causes of hunger. Without their services and the generosity of our donors we would be unable to fulfll our mission. Mrs. Smith was correct in saying that our federal funding will most likely come to an end this fall. But again, we continue to rely on our donors.
Maryelyn Scholz Stevensville
MT Food
Bank will deliver to
Pantry Partners
Following the “Food Cuts hit Pantry Partners” letter I wrote in the July 9 Star, I received a call from Bill Matthews, MT Food Bank Network Director. Good news! Thanks to new donations from businesses and generous donors, the MT Food Bank trucks will still be delivering much needed food to our local Pantry Partners and all the other food banks in the 66 counties of Montana despite the Federal cuts to the TFAP Program. Last year, the MT Food Bank truck delivered 22,000 pounds of free and low cost food to Pantry Partners. Despite this good news, the shortfall at Pantry Partners will still be great because of the loss of SNAP and WIC food stamps to low-income families and 1 in 5 children, $230 billion nationwide. Could you commit to delivering regular food donations at the Pantry, Middle Burnt Fork and ALC Way, on Monday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and on Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.? Monetary donations can be mailed to PO Box 806, Stevensville, MT 59870.
Sharing and caring are Bitterroot traditions - let’s step up!
Hazel Smith Stevensville
E.T. is coming to Hamilton
Hamilton Community Cinema announces more movie showings into fall
After the success of their frst pop-up movie showing, E.T., Hamilton Community Cinema (HCC) has planned several more movie events for Bitterroot residents, including “A River Runs Through It,” at 7 p.m. on July 31 at the Bedford Building (223 S. 2nd St, Hamilton). The event is sponsored by Chapter One Book Store, Go West Outftters and Freestone Fly Shop. Marshall Bloom, a consultant on the flm, will provide an introduction. HCC will provide full concessions with doors opening at 6:30 p.m.
“Our frst event was a great success,” said Katrina Mendrey, HCC Secretary. “There was audible crying and laughter. It certainly demonstrated the transformative power of cinema when shared with others, even strangers.”
The group will continue to show movies, mostly at the Bedford Building, throughout the fall and winter. In addition to “A River Runs Through It,” their schedule includes “Sing,” at 6:30 p.m. on August 22, at the Bedford Building, “A League of Their Own,” at 8 p.m. on September 5 in BrewX’s outdoor courtyard and “Mean Girls,” at 7 p.m. on October 3 at the Bedford Building. The HCC serves full concessions beginning 30 minutes prior to each movie and hopes the events will help further their mission to fnd a permanent location in downtown Hamilton for movies and live music and theater performances.
While organizing movie events is certainly part of their mission, the group is still
focused on fnding a permanent location.
“We want these events to inspire people to imagine with us what we can achieve with a permanent movie house back in the Bitterroot,” said Mendrey.
The group has identifed Hamilton as the best place for a movie theater as it is strategically located between other communities in the valley that currently have to drive to Missoula to see a movie. “Our hope is this venue will bring people together from surrounding communities, save them the drive to Missoula and be an afordable way to gather while keeping funds in our local community.”
According to the group’s community vision posted on their website, Hamilton area residents and those living between Stevensville and Darby, spend nearly $280,000 on movie tickets in Missoula, annually. This data is based on credit card usage and does not represent auxiliary spending like going to dinner before or concessions. It also does not capture payment with cash or checks.
“There’s a lot of opportunity for local businesses and area residents to beneft from this through keeping money circulating in our local economy, creating jobs and enhancing our community’s access to the arts,” said Mendrey. “We are excited to see who attends our pop ups and for now provide at least some options for Bitterrooters to share a night out at the movies.”
E.T. movie attendee, August Rohrbach, dressed as Elliot at the Hamilton Community Cinema’s frst pop up movie. More movies will run through the fall at the Bedford Building.
If it’s too hot to fsh, why wait for hoot-owl?
I was having cofee with friends when we planned a fshing trip.
“Let’s wait until four – lets eat some dinner and relax for a while, and hit the river when the sun goes down,” one of my friends said.
Everybody agreed.
We planned to fsh where the river’s temperatures will be plenty cool in its shaded canyon when the sun is of the water. There should be some good insect activity then –egg-laying mayfy spinners, little yellow or lime stonefies, and hopefully plenty of caddisfies.
We anticipated some good dry fy fshing.
by Chuck Stranahan
We also anticipated that high sun and low water in the afternoon would have the trout sulking on the bottom. Why fsh for them, then?
We were planning to fsh a piece of water where the temps are holding well and the fsh aren’t stressed. The state’s hoot owl restrictions are intended to protect trout already stressed by high water temperatures from the secondary, and possible killing stress of being caught.
We pinch the barbs on our hooks routinely. That facilitates the quick release of the fsh once caught.
We all use a net and are forceful, as much as out tackle will bear, in bringing the fsh to the net. A quick sprint is less stressful on a trout than a marathon.
And when the fsh are under natural stress to begin with, we don’t fsh for them.
Simple.
In the days before hoot owl restrictions I’d self-monitor as the water temps warmed. Guiding was diferent, then.
I’d skip some stretches altogether, encourage wade fshing for all or part of a trip, and if foating I’d be likely to tell my clients, “Let’s meet at six. We want to be on the water and casting by seven.”
If they were up for it during heat like we’re experiencing now, we’d meet earlier – maybe we’d be on the water when we could barely see.
There would always be mayfy nymphs moving before the morning hatch started. Very often, the best fshing of the day would happen right of the bat, as trout that would be dormant later were chomping everything in sight that broke free from
the bottom. They’d feed in an unseen frenzy on nymphs that were drifting in their full view under the surface.
More often than not, I’d beach the boat and teach my clients how to fsh a nymphs without a bobber. “It’s not like dry fy fshing,” I’d tell them. “Nymphs swim.”
Detecting the strike? Easy. Either the leader takes a dive or quits moving where it enters the water, or more likely you feel it – strike, but don’t overstrike.
When the hatch started the smaller fsh would be frst to come to the surface. Their parents and grandparents waited until later. We’d fsh smaller dry-and-dropper combos on lighter leader tippets, and catch more and bigger trout than those who started later and fshed bigger fies.
When full sun was on the water things slowed down. We’d often be of the water before our lunch break, spend the afternoon loafng or driving to a scenic and productive spot upriver, or maybe a smaller feeder stream for some evening hatch dry fy fshing.
Those days were often the most fun for me. I’d
watch my clients be as nine-year-old kids again, fatten out on a cool rock above a shaded plungepool, dangle a dry fy and catch a beautiful-colored little native cutthroat.
There are layers and nuances of this sport that you miss if you confne it to just a raft or drift boat, and take one-shot casts at every lie moving up past you and you foat downstream. That’s fun when conditions are right, but it gets old.
Drift for thirteen miles taking the double-whammy of sunlight and glare coming of the water, and don’t look up at the scenery much or simply stop – take it all in, marinate your senses in where you are.
Instead, fx your attention on the fy as it foats for miles between casts, and miss everything else. Measure your day’s success by how many fsh you caught. Are we having fun, yet? Or as much as we could have, doing something else, fshing some other way, fshing somewhere else?
When the heat hits, why wait for hoot owl? Fish when and where it won’t have much efect – and have more fun while you’re at it.
Head upstream to cooler water, smaller streams when rivers warm Photo by Chuck Stranahan.
Thomas ‘Tom’ Dunbar
1953 –
2025
With heavy hearts and deep gratitude, we announce the passing of Thomas “Tom” H. Dunbar—beloved husband, father, grandfather, friend, brother, and cornerstone of the Bitterroot Valley. Tom left this world peacefully in his sleep on July 12, 2025, after a hard-fought battle with cancer, surrounded by the family he cherished more than anything. Born and raised in the very valley he would spend his life shaping, Tom was a man of quiet strength and deep purpose. From an early age, he learned what it meant to work hard, keep your word, and love where you come from. These values stayed with him always, and he passed them on to everyone who knew him. Tom was born in 1953 in Hamilton, Montana, to Thomas Lee Dunbar and Margaret Dunbar. Raised among the towering pines and mountain creeks of Montana, his life was shaped by hard work, deep family roots, and an unwavering belief in the strength of a closeknit community. He found an immense source of peace and comfort in the family property that we affectionately refer to as ‘the Ranch’, where so much love and family history reside; from his great-grandfather’s birthplace, to the cabin by the creek that he built by hand, to his granddaughter’s wedding, it meant the world to him and to the many generations of family history and growth that flourished in those mountains.
He loved this land with his whole heart—the smell of sawdust, the way the creek moved at dusk, the hush of snowfall in the pines. But above all, Tom loved his family. His wife, Ana “Annie” L. Dunbar, was his compass and companion through 29 years of love, partnership, and laughter. His daughter Monica Dunbar, affectionately known as “Sugar Bear,” and his son Jake Dunbar, or “Bubba” were his whole world. He was blessed with three granddaughters, Kami, Megan, and Gracie, as well as his great-grandson, Porter.
Tom took over the family business, Dunbar Sawmill, in his youth. Under his steady leadership, the sawmill not only became one of the valley’s most reliable sources of lumber and general household items, but also helped lay the foundation for the area’s economic growth. More than a business owner, Tom was a builder—in wood, in community, and most importantly of all, in character. He saw the mill not just as a livelihood, but as a way to support families and preserve the traditions of honest labor and stewardship of the land.
Tom has always been very proud of his Scottish ancestry, and the value of knowing about where we came from and how it affects who we are today. The clan Dunbar motto varies between
Robin ‘Rob’ Dean
Robin “Rob” Dean, 62, of Florence, Montana, passed away peacefully surrounded by family and taken to his heavenly home on July 15, 2025.
Rob was born on October 5, 1962 in Fort Benton, Montana. Rob lived a fulfilling life with much pride in his family.
Rob grew up in Geraldine, Montana. At 8 years old, Rob joined his older brothers, Dave and Regan, as a boxer. Rob moved to White Sulphur Springs in June 1974. In 1976, as a young boxer, Rob won Junior Olympic Champ between Montana, Wyoming, North/South Dakota. He continued his love for sports as he continued
sources from “in promtu” or “always ready” and the second, somewhat more fitting motto “sub spe,” which means “under hope.” Tom Dunbar embodied hope in a way few else can; instilling in his loved ones that we can endure in the face of adversity, no matter what comes, the Dunbars will survive because we have hope… and because we can be that hope for someone else.
Known for his firm handshake and even firmer sense of integrity, Tom believed that success was best measured by what you give, not what you take. He was always the first to lend a hand to friends, family, and the community. In all those who knew him, he instilled the foundations of kindness, humility, and hard work. Tom’s grandchildren and great-grandchildren knew him as “Papa,” the man with the gentle smile, a massive heart, and a story for every season. He taught us that ladybugs are lucky, showed us how to fix up vintage cars— even though we were more interested in playing in them — and to listen more than we speak. I still think of him every time I smell Gojo. Another favorite memory is how every Christmas Eve, without fail, Papa’s kids, grandkids, and, recently, his great-grandson would always gather around him. We would go to Victor Steakhouse for dinner, then go back to his family home for presents and quality time together, always filled with stories and joy and laughter that made our hearts sing from the outpouring of love we felt.
Tom Dunbar leaves behind a legacy carved not just in timber but in the hearts of those who knew him. His strength was quiet but enduring. His impact on the Bitterroot Valley will be felt for generations. Tom Dunbar built more than a business—he built a legacy. May his memory be a blessing, and may we carry his example forward in how we live, work, and care for one another.
A word from “Grandpa’s Grump” Gracie: “Papa has always been such a massive part of our lives. I remember hiding behind one of his old chairs because I didn’t want to go home; I wanted to stay and play with Papa. Another memory that I cherish beyond measure is when my sister and I would wreak havoc in the Dunbar Sawmill and General Store or sit in the vintage old cars he was restoring. It’s important to remember that the intense ache we feel in our hearts is just the evidence of the immense amount of love he poured into each and every one of us.”
He is survived by his wife Annie Dunbar; children Monica (Sugar Bear), Jake (Bubba); three granddaughters; one great-grandchild; his sister Linda.
A word from his beloved wife: “Life is full of surprises. One day, you’re filled with joy and
boxing, football and basketball. In 1979, Rob met his future wife Stephanie. Rob and Stephanie would become high school sweethearts. He graduated from White Sulphur Springs in 1981.
Rob would continue his education at University of Montana Western where he pursued a degree in education. Rob and Stephanie’s bond continued to grow, and the high school sweethearts married July 23, 1983 in White Sulphur Springs. Soon after in January, 1985, Amanda, was born in Dillion. Rob completed his education at Dillion in 1985 and the young family moved to Bigfork where Rob completed his student teaching. On September 2, 1986, Erin was born in Kalispell.
In 1987, Rob made the decision to serve his country and he joined the Air Force. Rob served from 1987 to 1991. While stationed at Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota, the family welcomed their final addition, Jordan, in April 1988.
After the Air Force and venturing back to Montana, Rob and his family eventually settled in Florence, Montana in 1994. Here is where Rob and Stephanie would raise their family. Rob continued to be a supportive
love, living life with the most important person in your life, but with just the blink of an eye, things can change, and you’ll never know how life can go on without them.
My life will never be the same without my true love, my husband, Tom. When I first met him, I never knew things could get real, because we were worlds apart. But he was persistent, and we continued exchanging letters throughout the test of time. We conquered all odds because we knew we were meant for each other. And at the end of it all, we did it and lived our Happily Ever After!
Our love for each other is something out of this world. Tom was the most patient, loving, funny, and just the most amazing person I have ever met in my entire life. Through ups and downs, we made it through ’til he couldn’t hold on anymore. I love you, my lovey dovey, you are forever carved in my heart, and I will always remember all the great memories I had with you. You may be gone, but your legacy and memories will live on. We will miss you so much.”
As Tom was a very private man, both in life and after, he requested no funeral services to be rendered, save for a small private family function. We thank the community for your loving support for our family in this time of grief and heartache.
Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.
husband and a loving father. Rob transitioned from being an encouraging father to a supportive and loving Papa to his 10 grandchildren.
Rob is survived by his wife of 42 years, Stephanie Dean. His children, Amanda Jacobson (Jerrad), Erin Gilman (Tyler), Jordan Dean (Mariah). His 10 grandchildren, Texas, Maya, Rex, Colin, Zuzu, Sonny, Archie, Eleanora, Irie and Avery. His 2 older brothers, Dave Dean (Brenda) and their 2 children and Regan Dean (Peggy) and their 3 children. He is also survived by his mother Marie Dean.
Rob and his family would like his journey and death from FTD to help bring awareness to the prevention and reversal of cognitive decline related diseases. Early diagnosis is key. For more information please visit apollohealthco.com.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025 at 11:00 a.m. at the Florence Carlton Cemetery. Reception following at the family home. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
Modrall
Patricia ‘Patsy’ Burnell
Patricia “Patsy” Burnell passed away Wednesday, January 8, 2025 at St. Patrick Hospital at the age of 89.
Patsy was born on November 8,1935, in Kalispell, MT to the late Oswald and Dorthy Teigen. She was the frst of 10 children, seven preceding her in death and is survived by two of her sisters, Rita Snyder and Dorthy Teigen, who reside in Ronan, Montana.
She was married to Fred Burnell on Jan 10,1954 and had a loving marriage for 60 years. They had two children, Thomas and Valerie Burnell, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and one
Ben Essary
great-great-grandchild.
Over the span of her life, Patsy belonged to the American Legion for 50 years, working directly with elderly veterans and was also a member of the Eagles for 30 years. She was a devoted wife, mother and grandmother and loved spending time with her family, sharing memories, and giving hugs. She will be greatly missed.
Please join us in remembering her on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula at 1911 Tower Street at 1:30 p.m. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
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
Paul Neil Odegaard
Paul Neil Odegaard, age 79, of Missoula, Montana, passed away at home on hospice on July 8, 2025, surrounded by family following a courageous journey with cancer.
Paul was born on May 30, 1946, in Billings, Montana, to Wesley and Audrey Odegaard. From a young age, he was deeply involved in his community — participating in Scouts, Demolay, serving as an acolyte at American Lutheran Church, YoungLife, National Honor Society, and Boys State.
A natural leader, Paul was the Student Body President at Billings Senior High School graduating in 1964. He attended Wabash College in Indiana for a year before returning home to Montana and graduating from the University of Montana with a degree in pharmacy in 1969. During this time he married the sweetheart of his life, Ande Barney, and started a family back in Billings. He also served his country for six years in the Army Reserve. Throughout his life, Paul’s passion was serving others. He began his career at the family’s Odegaard’s store in Billings, famously known as the store with “everything under the sun”. There, he learned the true meaning of hard work, customer service, community spirit and met his sweetheart, Ande. After the store was sold, Paul’s entrepreneurial spirit continued to shine. He helped launch a drug and hardware store in Colstrip, Montana, tried his hand at real estate, purchased and operated Winter Hardware with his brother John, and then purchased Mrs. Butler’s Kitchen, which was a Billings landmark with a thriving restaurant, take out and catering business specializing in “broasted chicken” and family meals.
Paul later moved to Hamilton to open a new pharmacy for Buttery’s, then transferred to Albertson’s in Missoula, where he served customers
with care and dedication. His last job in pharmacy was his favorite, working part-time at Partnership Health Center Pharmacy. He had a special spot in his heart for those struggling to make ends meet and helping them get the care and medicines they needed amidst life’s challenges.
Paul served on the board of directors of The Arc of Western Montana, an organization who helps people with disabilities live fulflling lives. His daughter, Pam, lives in a group home in Missoula that is operated by The Arc. An important part of his life was spending time with Pam going for car rides around town to “go get a pop” and sharing special moments with her.
A special hobby of Paul’s was gardening and making a masterpiece of each yard he owned. He obtained his Master Gardener certifcation to add to his skills. He also was a long time Rotarian, participating in clubs in Billings and Hamilton.
Above all, Paul will be remembered for his warm smile, generous spirit, and unwavering commitment to serving others to the best of his abilities.
Paul is survived by his beloved wife and sweetheart of 57 years, Ande; his children, Doug Odegaard (Robyn) and Pam Odegaard both of Missoula; his grandchildren, Isaac Odegaard of Missoula and Cana Odegaard of Boulder, Colorado; and his brother, John Odegaard (Jacque) of Costa Mesa, California along with many others he considered his family. He is preceded in death by his parents Wesley and Audrey (Gauslow) Odegaard of Billings, Montana, his brother Leon Odegaard of Red Lodge, Montana, and his sister Aliene Drews (Ed) of Santa Cruz, California.
We wish to expressly thank the wonderful care team at Montana Cancer Center including Dr. Alan Thomas, Alexis Czorny, NP and the incredi-
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.
ble oncology infusion nurses and volunteers who made him feel at home and kept him smiling during his chemotherapy sessions. We also wish to thank Dr. Jack Branston and Marge Zaveta at St. Patrick Hospital and Dr. Michael Caldwell who provided incredible care to him and our family. Finally, we wish to thank the Partners Hospice Care team including Mary, Wendy, Bridgette and Amy who were inspiring angels that helped us navigate his last days at home.
A Celebration of Life will be held on July 26, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Missoula Alliance Church with a reception to follow. Bring a story to share and dress casually as Paul would have preferred.
In lieu of fowers, the family invites memorial contributions to be made to The Arc of Western Montana, an organization that refects Paul’s lifelong dedication to helping others. They can be found at https://thearcwmt.org for donation information.
He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
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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.
MOVING, DOWNSIZING SALE. Lots of craft items and scrapbooking. A lot of stuf to stuf, everything must go. Friday, July
25 and Saturday, July 26th, 9am - 1pm. 309 College Street, Stevensville.
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
FOR SALE: ARCHAIC FLORIDA INDIAN ARTIFACTS. Stone, bone, shell, ceramics. Side-by-side Yamaha Wolverine 1000 XRT, bells and whistles, excellent condition, 2021 model, low miles. Price negotiable. 406-777-3022.
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.
ROOM FOR RENT. Bed, dresser, TV, small fridge, includes utilities, common areas, kitchen use. Hamilton. $350/ month. Call or text (406) 880-8351.
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
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-412025-0000180-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-412025-0000180-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
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 406-3756530 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 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 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 EastWest 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
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, 406-7775271 Ext. 102 https://www.townofstevensville.com/rfps Position is open until flled.
Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 7-9, 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF INTENT TO REQUEST RELEASE OF FUNDS
July 23, 2025 Ravalli County 215 S 4th Street, Ste A Hamilton, MT 59840 jhorat@rc.mt.gov 406-363-2733
On or about July 31, 2025 the County of Ravalli will submit a request to the HUD for the release of Community Project Funding (CPF) funds under the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 118-42) and the Further Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2024 (Public Law 11847), to undertake a project known as Ravalli County Ricketts Road Improvement Project for the purpose of reconstructing two miles of Ricketts Road from the intersection of Bowman Road north to the intersection of Gerer Lane and Blodgett Camp Road with a project cost estimate of $1,000,000.
The activities proposed are categorically excluded under HUD regulations at 24 CFR Part 58 from National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) requirements. An Environmental Review Record (ERR) that documents the environmental determinations for this project is on fle at 215 S 4th St, Ste A, Hamilton, MT and may be examined or copied on weekdays 8 A.M to 5 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Any individual, group, or agency may submit written comments on the ERR to the Ravalli County Road and Bridge Department at 215 S 4th St, Ste A, Hamilton, MT 59840 or by email at jhorat@ rc.mt.gov. All comments received by July 31, 2025 will be considered by Ravalli County prior to authorizing submission of a request for release of funds.
ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION
Ravalli County certifes to HUD that Dan Huls in his capacity as County Commissioner Chairman consents to accept the jurisdiction of the Federal Courts if an action is brought to enforce responsibilities in relation to the environmental review process and that these responsibilities have been satisfed. HUD’s approval of the certifcation satisfes its responsibilities under NEPA and related laws and authorities and allows the Ravalli County to use Program funds.
OBJECTIONS TO RELEASE OF FUNDS
HUD will accept objections to its release of fund and Ravalli County’s certifcation for a period of ffteen days following the anticipated submission date or its actual receipt of the request (whichever is later) only if they are on one of the following bases: (a) the certifcation was not executed by the Certifying Ofcer of Ravalli County; (b) the Ravalli County has omitted a step or failed to make a decision or fnding required by HUD regulations at 24 CFR part 58; (c) the grant recipient or other participants in the development process have committed funds, incurred costs or undertaken activities not authorized by 24 CFR Part 58 before approval of a release of funds by HUD; or (d) another Federal agency acting pursuant to 40 CFR Part 1504 has submitted a written fnding that the project is unsatisfactory from the standpoint of environmental quality. Objections must be prepared and submitted via email in accordance with the required procedures (24 CFR Part 58, Sec. 58.76) and shall be addressed to Noemi Ghirghi, CPD Region VIII Director, at CPDRROFDEN@hud.gov. Potential objectors should contact CPDRROFDEN@hud.gov to verify the actual last day of the objection period. Dan Huls
Ravalli County Commissioner Chairman Ravalli County, Montana 215 S 4th Street, Ste A Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6501 BS 7-23-25. MNAXLP
Megan S. Winderl
Dustin M. Chouinard CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C. 99 Marcus Street, 3rd Floor Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 218-4888 meganw@cwlawmt.com pleadings@cwlawmt. com
Attorney for Petitioner/ Creditor MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of CHARLES F. WROBLE, JR. a/k/a CHUCK WROBLE, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-412024-0000083 Dept. 1 NOTICE OF HEARING ON APPOINTMENT OF SPECIAL ADMINISTRATOR Notice is hereby given that Brittany Wing, Guardian of J.K.W. and A.J.W., creditors of the estate, has fled a Verifed Petition for Appointment of Special Administrator of said estate. For further information, the Petition may be examined in the ofce of the clerk of the above Court. Hearing upon said Petition will be held on August 27, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. in courtroom 1 of the abovenamed Court, at which time all interested persons may appear and object. DATEd this 14th day of July 2025. Chouinard & Winderl, PC Attorney for Petitioner/ Creditor /s/ Megan S. Winderl BS 7-23, 7-30, 8-6-25. MNAXLP
John S. Masar LionWood Law PLLC 115 W. 3rd St., Ste. 103 Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 625-2682 jmasar@lionwoodlaw. com Attorney for Plaintif MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY ROBERT WILLIAMS, Plaintif, vs. JOHN N. LIGHTNER and RUTH H. LIGHTNER, and JANET K. KESTLER a/k/a JANET KESTLER and ALVIN T. REUTER, and MELINDA L. REED, a/k/a MELINDA L. REED HETTICK, and ROBERT M. HETTICK, their heirs, devisees, and assigns; and all other persons, unknown, claiming or who might claim any right, title, estate, or interest in or lien or encumbrance upon the real property described in the Complaint adverse to Plaintif’s ownership or any cloud upon Plaintif’s title, whether the claim or possible claim is present or contingent, Defendants. Cause No.: DV-25-85 Dept. No.: 1 HOWARD F. RECHT SUMMONS FOR PUBLICATION THE STATE OF MONTANA TO THE ABOVENAMED DEFENDANTS GREETINGS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Amended Complaint in this action, which is fled in the ofce of the clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to fle your written answer and serve a copy thereof upon the Plaintif’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default, for the relief demanded in the Amended Complaint.
The real property afected by this suit is situated in the State of Montana, County of Ravalli, and is described as follows: A tract of land located in the NE1/4SE1/4 of Section 26 and in the NW1/4SW1/4 of Section 25, all being in Township 10 North, Range 20 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana, and more particularly described as Lot 43, Certifcate of Survey No. 355. Together with a fourteen by seventy (14x70) foot 1974 Academy Mobile home
WITNESS my hand and the seal of said Court this 18th day of July, 2025. PAIGE TRAUTWEIN, CLERK OF COURT BY: Sarah Sargent, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-23, 7-30, 8-6-25. MNAXLP
OG-25-07-292
Legal Notice
The Ravalli County Planning Department is inviting public comment on a foodplain permit to install fber optic cable within the regulatory foodplain of the Bitterroot River. The applicant is Grizzly Broadband. The project is located within with existing County Road and Utility Easement (rightof-way) along Luby Lane, Florence in Section 25, 26 and 36, T10N, R20W, Ravalli County. Information regarding this permit is available at the Ravalli County Planning Department at 215 S 4th St, Suite F in Hamilton. Written comments may be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed (planning@rc.mt.gov) and must be received by 5:00 pm, Wednesday, August 6th, 2025. Reference application # FA-25-04.
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OG-25-07-98
Legal Notice
The Ravalli County Planning Department is inviting public comment on foodplain application FA-25-03 for work proposed within the FEMA regulated foodplain
of the Bitterroot River. The applicant is Jef Oliver. The project is proposing to construct a residence, excavate a barrow pit and install associated utilities. The proposed residence will be connected to an existing septic system or a new system installed outside the FEMA regulated foodplain. The project site is located at 2708 East Gorus Loop, Darby, in Section 26, Township 4 North, Range 21 West, Ravalli County. Detailed information regarding this application is available for review at the Ravalli County Planning Department at 215 S 4th St, Suite F in Hamilton. Written comments may be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed (planning@ rc.mt.gov) and must be received by August 6th, 2025 (Reference Application #FA-25-03).
BS 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF FINAL BUDGET MEETING
At the fnal budget meeting to be held on or before August 20, 2025, the Stevensville School District
Board of Trustees will be meeting on Aug 12, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. in the Stevensville Music Center Choir Room for the purpose of considering and adopting the fnal budget of the District for fscal year 2025-2026.
The meeting of the individual District Trustees may be continued from day to day until the fnal adoption of the District’s budget. Any taxpayer in the district may appear at the meeting and be heard for or against any part of the budget.
For further information please contact: Jon Konen, Superintendent, Park Street Stevensville, MT 59870 or call 406-777-5481 ext. 5136
Sincerely, Jon Konen Superintendent BS 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
DISPOSAL OF PROPERTY RESOLUTION
VICTOR SCHOOL DISTRICT #7
RAVALLI COUNTY VICTOR, MONTANA 59875
WHEREAS, Section 20-6-604, Montana Code Annotated, provides in pertinent part: (1) Whenever the trustees of a district determine that a site, building, or any other real or personal property of the district is or is about to become abandoned, obsolete, undesirable, or unsuitable for the school purposes of the district, the trustees may sell or otherwise dispose of the real or personal property. If a decision to sell or dispose of property is made, the trustees shall adopt a resolution to sell or otherwise
dispose of the district real or personal property because it is or is about to become abandoned, obsolete, undesirable, or unsuitable for the school purposes of the district. (2) The resolution may not become efective for 14 days after the notice required in subsection (3) is made. (3) The trustees shall provide notice of the resolution in the manner required for school elections in 20-20-204. WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 20-6-604, Montana Code Annotated, the Board of Trustees of Victor School District, has found that miscellaneous items are obsolete, undesirable, or unsuitable for school purposes; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, the Board of Trustees of Victor School District, shall place the real property on the open market, advertise the real property as being for sale and sell the same if a qualifed buyer makes an acceptable ofer to the District: BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, in accordance with District practice and as required by Sections 20-6604 and 20- 20-204, Montana Code Annotated, this Resolution shall be posted in three diferent places in the district and published in the newspaper of general circulation in the District. A list of all surplus items can be viewed on the Victor website: https//www. https:// www.victor.k12.mt.us/o/vps/ page/surplus-equipment. To view these items in person, please contact Victor School at 406-642-3221. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, the resolution shall become efective fourteen (14) days after such publication and posting if, in accordance with Section 20-6-604, Montana Code Annotated, no taxpayer appeals this Resolution prior to August 06, 2025, by fling a verifed petition with the Clerk of the District Court setting out in detail the objections to the adoption of the Resolution or the disposal of the property and serving a copy of such petition upon the School District. DATED this 15th day of July 2025
BOARD OF TRUSTEES Victor School District
ATTEST: Shelley O’Leary Clerk of the Board FORM NO. 1202 (2/18) /s/ Marci Smith By: Marci Smith, Chairperson of the Board BS 7-23-25.
MNAXLP
LEGAL NOTICE
Renter of Storage Unit #1, Hunter Schlender, address unknown: Notice is hereby given by A to Z Storage Solutions LLC (formally known as A to Z Storage) that unless your accruing balance and past due amount is paid in full, the Storage Unit contents will be liquidated on August 23, 2025 at 1130 South 1st street Hamilton, MT in accordance with MCA 70-6411 thru 70-6-420 and the provisions of the contract you signed. Bs 7-23-25. MNAXLP
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Rebecca E. Mann, Rebecca E. Mann, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20250000229-NC Dept. 1 Howard F. Recht
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Rebecca Elizabeth Mann to Rebecca Elizabeth Busch. The hearing will be on August 20, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County. DATED this 8th day of July, 2025. /s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court By: Sarah Sargent Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-23, 7-30, 8-6, 8-13-25. MNAXLP
Summit Career Center accepting applications
Summit Career Center (SCC) is accepting applications for its next session through August 19, with classes beginning Tuesday, September 2.
According to SCC Executive Director Jacqueline Stevens, the center is actively recruiting new high school graduates in addition to older adults looking to start a new career path.
“This is a great way for young people to become trained in a career without accumulating a lot of debt,” said Stevens. “We’re working with local schools, attending job fairs, and reaching out to grads to encourage enrollment.”
SCC provides free career training and personal skill development to help motivated students become employed in high-demand job felds. Programs include Paralegal, Certifed Nursing Assistant (CNA), Medical Adminis-
trative Assistant, CDL, Bookkeeping, Medical Billing and Coding, Phlebotomy, Pharmacy Technician, Dental Assistant, Construction Trades, IT Support, and Cybersecurity, to name a few.
According to Stevens, career choices are numerous but must be for jobs available in Missoula and Ravalli counties. Summit Career Center works closely with employers to ensure that the training meets the needs of the area job market.
“We’ve built a great reputation in Missoula and the Bitterroot Valley for graduating students who are excellent employees and can fll local hiring needs,” she commented.
SCC’s six-month program draws students from various ages and walks of life, including single parents, individuals who are unemployed, in low-wage jobs, or receiving public
along with it, and saw a need in others in the community as well. Feeser sought to include the body, which she said is something that was historically and biblically part of Christianity.
Because of all these experiences, Feeser decided to pursue bringing yoga, with a Christian element, to the area. She opened her studio, ReMain, in May of 2024. She ofers three main groups of activities through her ReMain space. The frst are the “Gather” table events, which include food and conversation around a passage that is read at the beginning. During these she usually orders hors d’oeuvres from The Catered Table.
The next group of activities she does are her “Restore” workshops, which aim to have smaller groups discuss various points of interest in faith. These small groups often work on specifc key aspects of faith, while the Gather events are general discussions which she has tried to model after the Last Supper.
The fnal fagship activity Feeser hosts at ReMain are the yoga sessions. Feeser said yoga means to unite, or bring together. For her, that translates to “yoked,” like to become one with the Father, Son, Holy Spirit. According to Feeser, yoga is “more than just movement connected to breath,” it is about “setting intention through physical movement.”
Feeser’s yoga is a variation of Vinyasa yoga, which is a type of fow yoga. Each session starts with the
assistance, and those needing a fresh start. Stevens works with Hope Rescue Mission, the treatment courts, probation and parole ofce, and many other entities to help people determined to reinvent themselves.
“One of our 2023 grads, a single mom with three children, got her CDL and was quickly hired by one of Missoula’s top companies. She married, bought a home, relocated to Billings, and is now earning a six-fgure salary. She also recently celebrated two years of sobriety,” Stevens said.
In addition to career training, Summit Career teaches ongoing personal skills development which helps new student leaders age 18 and older grow personally and professionally. Coaching and evaluation are provided throughout, as well as mentoring from program graduates and area business
reading of a passage or verse, and then the yoga commences. After the session concludes, it ends with a prayer. Feeser added that it is “important that people feel known, heard and valued.” Because of this, her class spaces are limited for each session. She said she does not like them to be too crowded, that way everyone gets the proper amount of instruction and attention.
The name of Feeser’s studio, ReMain, took inspiration from the Biblical verse, John 15. That passage reads: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit. Apart from me you can do nothing.” The piece that reads “remain in me,” resonated with her, and for her that leads to “life with a capital L.” She believes it speaks to living life to the fullest, and her belief in the need for Jesus in a person’s life to attain that.
“Staying connected with Jesus is where life really happens,” said Feeser.
ReMain was formed as part of her business branding, which also denotes that the space is located on Stevensville’s Main Street. The combination of the words “remain” and “main” became “ReMain.”
Feeser said she fnds that there are three kinds of people that usually come to ReMain. These include people who are just looking for yoga, locally. Another group are those with an inkling of spiritual curiosity. The last are already committed Christians looking to
leaders. Students learn how to present themselves, interview for jobs, and handle themselves in the workplace.
“The student leaders also develop a family dynamic,” Stevens said. “They hold each other accountable and don’t want to let each other down.”
Summit Career Center ofers programs in Stevensville at 100 Fort Owen Ranch Road, and at the Lifelong Learning Center, 310 South Curtis, Missoula,
A faith-based nonproft, Summit Career Center is supported by the Gianforte Family Foundation, private donors, and other Montana nonproft organizations, enabling the organization to ofer free career training to its students.
For more information, visit summitcareercenter.org or call Jacqueline Stevens at 406.777.7232.
amplify their spiritual experience through a physical embodiment, or activity.
ReMain hosts yoga on Tuesdays at 6 p.m., Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. and yoga for women on Thursdays at 6 p.m.
Yoga classes must be booked ahead of time. As for pricing, yoga classes are by donation. Feeser said she does this because “whoever needs to be here, or wants to be here, there is no obstacle for them. I try to keep these as accessible as possible.”
Interested parties can register on the website remainspace.com. To register for the Gather events, the cost is $25. For the small Restore groups, interested parties must register, and those cost between $15 and $25, depending on the activities that will be involved. Sometimes they are part of a series.
Feeser is certifed through YogaFaith, a Christian yoga school. She is also a current M.A. candidate in Theology and Ministry at Fuller Theological Seminary. She really hopes to bring a sense of connection and faith, through her work with ReMain, to the community as a whole.
“Proper Christianity is about the fourishing of the community, not just the church or the Christian,” said Feeser. “I’m hoping that an encounter here helps people fourish in their own life, whether they continue with Christianity or not. I hope it’s a generous space.”
