Getting to know your Fish and Wildlife Commissioners
In 2023, Gov. Greg Gianforte appointed Jeff Burrows to the Region 2 seat on the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission. He represents the west-central part of the state.
Burrows grew up in the Bitterroot Valley and graduated from Montana Tech in Butte with a bachelor’s degree in environmental engineering. He has been married to his wife Jenica for 23 years, and they have two sons, Tyler and Andrew. Burrows has also been a Ravalli County Commissioner since 2012 and part of the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department since 2015.
What inspired you to become a Montana Fish and Wildlife Commissioner?
We live in Montana for the amazing outdoor recreational opportunities and the abundance of fish and wildlife. It is an honor serving on a commission that helps ensure future generations will also be able to enjoy hunting, fishing, trapping and other opportunities that we all cherish.
Can you share a personal experience with Montana’s outdoors that shaped your passion for fish and wildlife conservation?
I have so many amazing experiences outdoors, but the most important ones, which also shaped my passion for conservation, are hunting and fishing with my sons and wanting to see those opportunities continue for the next generation.
What unique skills or perspectives do you bring to the commission?
My experience as a Ravalli County Commissioner gives me a unique perspective and helps me better understand the impacts and dynamics of land use, economy, forest management and state and federal policy on fish and wildlife management and vice versa.
What’s your favorite Montana species to fish, hunt or observe, and why?
I do not think there is a more rewarding and challenging species to hunt than elk. I also enjoy observing mule deer, and
with declining mule deer in some places, I believe we need to ensure we manage for a healthy mule deer population. Like most Montanans, I enjoy catching a variety of our trout species, but the most amazing fish I have caught in Montana is a paddlefish. Pulling a nearly 100-pound fish out of the murky waters of the Missouri River is an amazing experience!
How can the public best engage with you and the commission?
Montanans are passionate about our fish, wildlife and recreation, and every decision by the commission has a public comment opportunity associated. That information that we get from our public is essential. Email communication is the most efficient method to directly reach me, and my email is commissionerregion2@ mtfwp.org. All seven of the commissioners’ email and phone numbers can be found on the FWP website: fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission/ members.
STALLIONS: IRT brings military, Forest Service together in Bitterroot
and active-duty reservists will be participating in IRT activities in the Bitterroot Valley throughout July. About 150 members arrived in the frst wave late in June, said FS District Ranger of the Darby-Sula Ranger District Steve Brown. After their two-week training requirement is met, a second wave will arrive for another two weeks of collaborative eforts to complete FS projects. This is an opportunity for diferent military branches to train with each other and work towards a larger goal, said Master Sgt. Newman. Brown learned about IRT from a work colleague who became familiar with the program during his time with the Air National Guard. “When he came up here, he started telling me about this program and how you can make proposals for [the military] to come help you with projects. So, [the FS] started working on it. It was probably about two years ago that we made the frst proposal. We were not initially accepted, but then in the next round, we were. Over the past year, we have been involved with the various units’ planning.”
IRT in the Bitterroot Valley is the largest operation of its kind taking place in the U.S. this year, and “300 people is double the Bitterroot National Forest work force,” said Brown. “For each project that they are working on, we’ve identifed a [FS] project lead, and that person is responsible for coordinating with the military and communicating to them, making
sure they understand what the need for that project is.”
Initiatives were selected based on the benefts they would provide from a military training standpoint and their ability to be completed during the military’s stay. They include trail and road maintenance, historic cabin restoration, windstorm damage repair and water system upgrades throughout the West Fork and Darby-Sula Ranger Districts.
Marine Master Sgt. Newman explained that helicopter sling load training typically involves moving massive cinder blocks weighing from 2,000 to 8,000 pounds. Transporting materials for the FS, he said, will provide reservists with experience securing diferent materials in real-world scenarios.
Military presence has not only been a boon to the valley in the sheer amount of manpower dedicated to FS undertakings, but the strategies implemented have made it possible to take on obstacles in new ways. One such novel application is the use of an explosive ordnance team to blow out culverts and clear large rocks blocking trails.
“We have some de-commissioned roads where the culverts never got pulled out, but the roads have grown in,” said Brown. “So, if we wanted to go back there with an excavator and pull those culverts, we’d have to cut the roads back out and reopen them… If the culverts clog during a rain
event or something, then the water will just blow the road out and put sediment in the stream.”
Brown mentioned that bringing IRT operations to the valley would not have been possible without the immense show of community support it received.
The Ravalli County Airport is providing space to house the military’s two Super Stallion CH-53E helicopters; The Town of Darby has opened the high school gymnasium and football field to accommodate military personnel lodgings, and Trapper Creek Job Corps is participating as well.
Brown hopes the experience will pave the way for future IRT partnerships in the Bitterroot.
Marine Master Sgt. Newman is involved with military Innovative Readiness Training in the Bitterroot National Forest this year. His mission is to help increase deployment readiness through community service and collaborative efforts with the U.S. Forest Service. Photo by Sarah Glass.
The Super Stallion CH-53E is one of the largest helicopters currently used in the U.S. military. It is known for its immense heavy-lifting capabilities. Photo by Sarah Glass.
DARBY: Sacajawea descendants speak about ancestors
community gathering place through volunteer efforts and local partnerships.
Among the park’s recent improvements are decorative banners installed with assistance from the Trapper Creek Job Corps. The park is also home to a brass sculpture of Sacajawea that was cast from the same mold used for the statue displayed at Fort Clatsop in Oregon. According to Finley, the Darby statue is the third casting made from that mold.
Sacajawea Day is one of three annual events organized by the civic group. The second, Writers Day, is held Aug. 1 in Darby’s larger town park, where local authors gather to read selections from their work.
“It has been excellent,” Finley said of the event.
The group’s third annual gathering is a chili festival held each September, where attendees sample a variety of chili recipes and vote for their favorites. Organizers also plan to expand the festival by adding art demonstrations and other activities designed to showcase local talent.
Finley said the organization is always looking for new members interested in preserving Darby’s history and supporting community projects.
Ted Hall, a local author, spoke before the guest speaker arrived. Hall has written two books about the expedition and has been very active in researching the expedition and pinpointing locations. He unveiled a new metal map based on Clark’s maps and modern GPS data. According to Hall, some of Clark’s maps are difficult to use to pinpoint exact locations because of issues with scale and perspective. However, he credited Clark’s maps with providing a near “perfect inventory” of trails, streams and waterways.
Using this information, Hall said researchers were able to create a highly accurate map of the Lewis
and Clark Expedition’s route.
The map also features a QR code linking to an online interactive version, where users can zoom in and follow the expedition’s route.
“So you can see exactly where Lewis and Clark went,” Hall said.
The overall map shows the expedition’s path through Ravalli County.
The event’s featured speaker, Rozina George, offered attendees a Native perspective on the expedition. George is Lemhi Shoshone and a descendant of Sacajawea.
Her presentation focused on Jean Baptiste Charbonneau, the son of Sacajawea
and French-Canadian fur trader Toussaint Charbonneau, who joined the Lewis and Clark Expedition as an interpreter. Sacajawea’s knowledge of the Shoshone people, her ability to communicate in multiple languages and her familiarity with portions of the country west of the Rocky Mountains proved invaluable as the expedition crossed the West.
Jean Baptiste was born near the beginning of the journey and accompanied his mother for more than 5,000 miles as the expedition traveled across the continent. George explained that much of the trip was made with the infant secured in a traditional cradleboard.
George’s daughter, Zahnive George Bettles, demonstrated a Shoshone cradleboard by placing her young son inside the handcrafted carrier for the audience to see.
Above, Rozina George speaks at last week’s Sacajawea Day event, hosted by the Bitterroot Heritage Civic Group.
At left, Zahnive George Bettles shows the audience her son’s cradleboard.
Photos by John Dowd.
Stockman Bank announces plans for new permanent Hamilton location
Stockman Bank announces plans for a new three-story banking facility at the corner of Pine Street and North First Street in Hamilton, representing a significant long-term investment in the Bitterroot Valley and the communities it serves.
The project will begin with the deconstruction of the existing building, with demolition expected to start in mid-July. Following site preparation, construction of the new facility will begin, with completion anticipated in 2027.
The new building will feature
a modern Stockman Bank on the first two floors, along with additional space designed for commercial tenants. The property has a rich history within the community. From the 1920s through 2020, the building served as a cherry processing and canning facility owned by the Parker family, playing an important role in the area’s agricultural heritage. Stockman Bank entered the Bitterroot Valley in 2025, opening locations in Hamilton and Stevensville. The current Hamilton location at 170 South 2nd
Street, Suite B, serves as a temporary location while plans for a permanent downtown bank moved forward. Stockman also has a bank in Stevensville, located at 318 Main Street.
In addition to investing in a new permanent facility, Stockman Bank is creating new employment opportunities in the valley. The bank is actively hiring for positions at both its Hamilton and Stevensville locations as it expands its presence and builds a team dedicated to serving the Bitterroot Valley. “We are thrilled to establish
a permanent presence in Hamilton that reflects our longterm commitment to this community,” said Simon McCann, Bitterroot Market President for Stockman Bank. “As we begin this next chapter, we are making an investment that will serve Hamilton and the surrounding communities for generations to come. We look forward to creating a space that supports our customers and employees, provides new commercial lease opportunities, and contributes to the continued vitality of downtown Hamilton.”
Since expanding to the Bitterroot, Stockman Bank has become an active community partner, supporting local nonprofits, schools, youth programs, civic organizations and community events throughout the valley. The new facility reflects the bank’s continued investment in the region and its commitment to providing local service and local decision-making for years to come.
Stockman Bank is Montana’s largest, family-owned community bank, with full-service locations across the state.
Spring mule deer surveys indicate good fawn recruitment
by Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks biologists in west-central Montana say that mule deer spring surveys showed that another mild winter helped with fawn survival and recruitment into the population across several areas of the region.
Fawns have high mortality during their frst year of life, and those that survive are considered “recruited” into the population. Recruitment metrics are an important indicator for growth in the population, which means that years with high fawn recruitment generally lead to population growth and potentially more hunting opportunities in successive years.
Specifcally, west-central Montana’s Region 2 biologists reported high fawn recruitment in several survey areas in the Upper and Lower Clark Fork and Bitterroot Valley. In the Upper ‘Clark Fork Face’ trend area in Hunting Districts (HDs) 291 and 292, fawn recruitment was up 34% from the previous year, with fawn to adult ratios of 43 fawns per 100 adults and 46 fawns per 100 adults respectively. In HD 202 in the Lower Clark Fork, fawn recruitment has remained high over the last several years with fawn to adult ratios above 50 fawns per 100 adults.
Bitterroot Valley is a desirable limited entry buck hunting opportunity and has had the longest consistent history of survey data collection in the region. This year’s fawn recruitment was 52 fawns per 100 adults, a
Annual counts can fuctuate from year to year based on survey conditions, which is why biologists look at the trend in the data over successive years, combined with other information, to get a clearer understanding of population trajectory.
Buck harvest is another important metric that can be an indicator for population trends in districts that are managed on a general hunting license. In west-central Montana, several districts are showing an increasing trend in buck harvest in the short-term (fve years) and/or long-term (20 years), which is also a positive indicator for more widespread mule deer population growth across the region.
Notable general license hunting districts with increasing buck harvest trends in the short and/or long-term are HDs 201, 216, 217, 281, 285, 292, 293 and 298. Other hunting districts, such as HD 200 and 215, are stable, and HD 214 shows a decreasing trend. Other districts are difcult to evalua
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Sabres complete successful season
The Stevensville Sabres Soccer Club recently completed their 2026 spring/ summer season. The Sabres enjoyed another successful campaign, participating in games and tournaments across Western Montana. The club fielded five teams this year: U12 Coed, U14 Coed, U16 Boys, U17 Girls and U19 Boys.
Season highlights
The Sabres U12 Coed team took second place in the Bronze division of the Montana Showcase Tournament held in Helena on May 9–10. The Sabres U17 Girls team won the championship trophy at the Montana Cup Tournament in Great Falls on May 16–17.
At the same tournament, the U16 and U19 boys’ teams both placed second. The U16 boys’ team took second in the Intermountain Cup tournament held in Missoula on June 13–14. Club overview
The Sabres Soccer Club, founded in
1991, is one of the oldest youth soccer programs in Montana. The Sabres welcome all players from Hamilton to Frenchtown, providing an affordable and competitive soccer program. To learn more about the Sabres Soccer Club, visit sabresfc.org or their Facebook page at facebook.com/SabresSoccerClub.
The Stevensville Sabres Soccer Club had another successful season this year. Stevensville Sabres Soccer Club teams: top left, U16 Boys, top right, U12 Coed, bottom left,
Boys. Photos courtesy Cathi Cook.
RUN: organizers encourage early registration
Robert, whose family and friends
wanted to create a way to bring people together in his memory.
“My son wanted to do something for people after the funeral,” Martin said. “We held a run the next day.”
The idea resonated with Robert’s parents because it gave friends and family a chance to gather in a positive way while honoring his life.
The first run attracted about 300 participants. Eight years later, organizers expect that number to top 1,200.
“It’s crazy to see that many people having a great time,” Martin said.
This year’s event includes several new additions, including “Capes for Kids,” inspired by Robert’s love of wearing superhero capes.
“He felt like a superhero when he wore one,” Martin said. “We want to bring the magic of his spirit back, but also bring the spirits of other kids to life.”
Martin expects the start of the race to be especially memorable as children wearing capes head down the course together.
“That first hundred yards is going to be absolutely nuts,” he said.
The event will also feature expanded festival games, several of them new this year, along with ice cream sandwiches at the finish line — one of Robert’s
favorite treats. Organizers have also incorporated Robert’s own handwriting into the font used for event materials, adding another personal touch to the celebration.
Despite the road closures required for race day, Martin said the Hamilton community has continued to embrace the event.
“People are super supportive,” he said. Martin was quick to credit the race committee and volunteers for the event’s continued success.
“I often get the credit because I’m the one speaking during the events,” he said. “But they are the ones behind the scenes that make the magic
happen. It’s their efforts.”
More than 100 volunteers are expected to help with this year’s race, supported by more than 70 sponsors.
“It wouldn’t be possible if we didn’t have their support,” Martin said.
Packet pickup will be held from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. the evening before the race at Hamilton High School, where the event will begin. Race awards, which are handcrafted this year, were created by one of Robert’s friends, now a high school student. Participants can register online through the Robert’s Run website. While registration remains open through race morning, organizers strongly encourage runners to sign up early to save money and help with planning. Volunteers can also register through the event website, robertsrun. org.
Above, youth stand at the front line, waiting for the race to start last year. At left, festival games last year. Photos courtesy Doug Martin.
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST
JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Christine Marie Greene: Christine Marie Greene, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20260000254-NC
Dept No.: Howard F. Recht
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Christine Marie Greene to Christine Marie Smith. The hearing will be on July 22, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County.
Dated June 9, 2026. /s/Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-2026. MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PENDING AT-
TACHMENT OF A TAX LIEN (MCA 15-17-122)
On Thursday, August 3, 2026, by 5:00 pm, the Ravalli County Treasurer will attach a property tax lien to property on which the 2025 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 3, 2026 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 406375-6580.
BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8, 7-15, 7-222026. 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 DOROTHY W. LOGOZZO, Deceased. Case No.: DP-41-2026-77 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 Richard Alan Bailey, 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 the 17th day of June 2026. /s/ Richard Alan Bailey, Personal Representative BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-2026. MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Dana Biesterfeldt: Dana Biesterfeldt, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20260000241-NC Dept No.: 1 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Dana Margarete Biesterfeldt to Dana Margarete Hanlin. The hearing will be on July 15, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated June 3, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/ Michelle Goldman, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8, 7-15-2026. MNAXLP
David B. Cotner
Taylor N. Eisenzimer Cotner Ryan Blackford, PLLC 321 W. Broadway St., Suite 500 Missoula, MT 59802 Telephone: (406) 541-1111 Facsimile: (406) 541-1122 Email: dcotner@cotnerlaw. com teisenzimer@cotnerlaw.com
Attorneys for Applicant Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF CORY A. JOHNSON, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-26-74 Dept. No. 2 Hon. Jennifer B. Lint
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Rachel Kramer has been appointed 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 be mailed to David B. Cotner and Taylor N. Eisenzimer, of Cotner Ryan Blackford, PLLC, the attorney for the Estate, return receipt requested, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court. Dated this 22nd day of June 2026.
/s/David B. Cotner
Taylor N. Eisenzimer
Attorneys for Personal Representative BS 7-1, 7-8, 7-15-2026.
MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST
JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Jack Cameron Buckingham: Stevi Ann Johns, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-26-264
Dept No.: 2
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE ON MINOR CHILD
This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Jack Cameron Buckingham to Jack Cameron Johns. The hearing will be on August 6, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated June 25, 2026.
Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court
/s/Hon. Judge Jennifer B. Lint
BS 7-1, 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-2026.
MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST
JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Nathaniel Clement Clegg: Nathaniel Clement Clegg, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20260000269-NC
Dept No.: 2
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Nathaniel Clement Clegg to Nathaniel Vaelorin Velanor. The hearing will be on August 6, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated June 25, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court
/s/ Catherine di Gleria, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-1, 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-2026.
MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST
JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Dakota Riley Frazier:
Dakota Riley Frazier, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-2026-271 Dept No.: 1
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Dakota Riley Frazier to Dakota Riley Burkett. The hearing will be on August 12, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated June 25, 2026.
Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/ Catherine di Gleria, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 7-8, 7-15, 7-22, 7-292026.
MNAXLP
David J. HagEstad, Esq.
Patricia N. Morse, Esq.
Sara M. Arno, Esq. HAGESTAD LAW GROUP, P.L.L.C. 2425 W. Central Ave., Ste. 200 Missoula, Montana 59801
Telephone: (406) 203-9303
Facsimile: (406) 888-6040
E-Mail: david@hagestadlaw. com
E-Mail: patricia@hagestadlaw. com
E-Mail: sara@hagestadlaw. com
Attorneys for Petitioner/Personal Representative, Timothy A. Malachinski
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST
JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY
Probate No. DP-41-20260000073-FI
In the Matter of the Estate of: HAROLD GEORGE MENDES, Deceased.
NOTICE OF HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Timothy A. Malachinski has fled a Petition for Formal Adjudication of Intestacy, Determination of Heirs and Appointment of Personal Representative, which may be examined in the ofce of the Clerk of this Court.
Hearing has been set for virtual appearance at the Courtroom of this Court in Ravalli 20 County, Montana, on the 23rd day of July, 2026, at 1:30 P.M. at which time and place all interested person may appear and object. This notice is being given at least 14 days prior to the date of the 22 hearing, pursuant to Mont. Code Ann. § 72-1-301. DATED this 22th day of June, 2026.
HAGESTAD LAW GROUP, PLLC
Attorneys for Petitioner/Personal Representative, Timothy A. Malachinski By: /s/ Patricia N. Morse Patricia N. Morse BS 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-2026. MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE CITY OF HAMILTON ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
Variance Request #2026-02, 100 Sandalwood Court – A request by Seth and Shelby Troutt for a variance from the 20-foot rear yard setback requirement in Title 17 of the Hamilton Municipal Code (HMC) 17.08.100. The applicant is requesting a 17-foot rear yard setback. This request falls under “variances” in HMC Section 17.12.070, which provides a process for Zoning
Board of Adjustment review and decision on requests to vary from zoning district standards.
The property is approximately 7,002sqft., and addressed as 100 Sandalwood Court, Hamilton, MT. 59840. The property is identifed by Ravalli County Tax ID # 610382 and Geocode 13-146819-3-01-70-0000, and is legally described as: Lot 41, Stonegate Meadows, Phase III, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the recorded plat thereof.
The Hamilton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing to take public comment and consider a decision on the variance request on Monday, July 27, 2026 at 5:30 PM on the 2nd foor of Hamilton City Hall, 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT. The public may attend and make comment in person, or on the internet / by phone through Zoom. Instructions are available on the City of Hamilton website www.cityofhamilton.net, or by contacting aenglish@cityofhamilton.net. Comments prior to the hearing may be submitted to the City of Hamilton Planning Department at aenglish@cityofhamilton.net or 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. Related materials will be made available on the City of Hamilton website prior to the meetings, and can be obtained by contacting the Planning Department at (406) 363-2101 or aenglish@cityofhamilton.net.
BS 7-8, 7-15-2026.
MNAXLP
Daniel Browder, Esq. Browder Law, PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840 Telephone: (406) 361-3677 Facsimile: (406) 361-2999 Email: browderlawmont@gmail.com
Attorney for Tifney Fischer MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAWN GODDARD, Deceased. Cause No. DP-2026-80 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Tifney Fischer 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, Tifney Fischer, return receipt requested, c/o: Browder Law, PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, Montana, 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 30th day of June, 2026. BROWDER LAW, PLLC
/s/Daniel Browder Attorney for Personal Representative
BS 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-2026. MNAXLP
Honorable Scott E. Burlingham Justice of the Peace 205 Bedford Street Suite E Hamilton, MT 59840 IN THE JUSTICE COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY, MONTANA BEFORE THE HONORABLE SCOTT E. BURLINGHAM, JUSTICE OF THE PEACE REAL PROPERTY MANAGEMENT SAPPHIRE, PLAINTIFF, V. CODY YOUNG, AND ALL OTHER TENANTS, DEFENDANT. Case No.: CV-610-20260000764
SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION THE STATE OF MONTANA TO: Cody Young 643 Grantsdale Road, Unit #13 Hamilton, Montana 59840 STATEMENT OF OBJECT OF ACTION: The above-captioned action is a Cause of Action against you relating to the possessory interest that you claim in the real property LOCATED AT 643 Grantsdale Road, Unit #13 Hamilton, Montana 59840 Plaintif demands relief which consists partially of excluding you from said possessory interest. YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action which is fled in the ofce of the above-entitled Justice of the Peace, a copy of which is herewith served upon you. In the event that you deny any or all of the material facts stated in the complaint, you must fle your written answer together with a $30.00 answer fee for each Defendant with the above-entitled Court, and serve a copy of your answer upon the Plaintif or attorney at the address as shown on the Complaint. The answer must contain a denial of any or all of the material facts stated in the Complaint that the Defendant believes to be untrue, and also a statement, in plain or direct manner, of any other facts constituting a defense. Any matter not denied shall be deemed admitted. If you fail to answer or assert a counterclaim with fve (5) days after service of the Complaint and Summons, the Plaintif may request entry of default judgement against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint.
Dated June 29, 2026.
/s/Honorable Scott E. Burlingham JUSTICE OF THE PEACE BS 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-2026. MNAXLP
Obituaries
JoAnn King Dutton
JoAnn King Dutton, 93, of Hamilton, MT passed away from natural causes Saturday, June 20, 2026 at The Remington. She was born December 22, 1932 in Missoula, Montana the daughter of Frank Tripp and Ora King. JoAnn was raised in Valley Creek near Arlee, Montana and Missoula, MT. She graduated from Missoula County High School in 1951. She met her future husband at the Fox movie theater while playing “hooky” from school. On October 6, 1951, she married Allan J. Dutton in Missoula, Montana. Al and Jo were shy of celebrating their 75th wedding anniversary! They lived in Missoula, Kalispell and settled in Hamilton. Sons Ross Allan was born in 1952 and Daniel Dean followed in 1953. JoAnn had a lifelong passion for dogs and she devoted much of her life to their care and well-being. She worked with a local veterinarian as a dog groomer before opening her own business. She founded RODAN kennels where she bred and raised Miniature Schnauzers and Fox Terriers, while also providing grooming and boarding services. She was a professional dog show judge and her expertise earned her recognition allowing her to travel throughout the United States and internationally including China, South Africa and Australia. JoAnn was a proud member of the 5 Valleys Kennel Club where she shared knowledge and friendship with other dog enthusiasts. JoAnn also enjoyed travelling with Allan including many
Death Notices
Shirley L. Hinrichs
Hamilton - Shirley L. Hinrichs, 74, passed away suddenly in the evening of Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Bitterroot Health, surrounded by her family. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mrs. Hinrichs. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Gerhard David Wegan
Florence - Gerhard David Wegan, 82, passed away on Friday, June 26, 2026 at his home. Whitesitt Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Michael Green
Missoula - Michael Green, 81, of Lolo, passed away in the early morning of Monday June 29, 2026 at St. Patrick Hospital. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Green. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Shana Williams
Superior - Shana Williams, 65, passed away suddenly in the morning of Monday June 29, 2026 at Mineral County Hospital. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to care for Mrs. Williams. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
cruises, trips to Hawaii, and Nashville to see the Grand Ole Opry. JoAnn is preceded in death by her parents, sister Beverly Pearson and niece Kathy Pearson Mavity and nephew Scott Pearson. Her husband Allan passed away 2 months ago bringing to a close a remarkable love story that spanned nearly 75 years of marriage. Their family fnds comfort in knowing they are together again after a lifetime devoted to one another. JoAnn is survived by sons Ross (Wendy) Dutton and Dan Dutton. Grandchildren Hilary (Carlos) Mendeguia – Drew Briggeman, Amaya Mendeguia; Bryon Dutton; Desiree Dutton (Reed Cole) – Lane, Cierra and Brennan Cole; Alexis Dutton – Mariah Struzynski (Jeremy) Ezrae and Banks, Hayden Hart; and Ashley Christopherson (Dalton) – Reagan and Clark Christopherson. She is also survived by her niece Judy Pearson Gustafson along with many several great-nieces and nephews.
A Celebration of Life will be held at Daly-Leach Chapel on Monday, July 13, 2026, at 11:00 a.m., immediately followed by a luncheon for family and friends in the Daly-Leach Community Room.
Honorary Pallbearers are great-grandchildren Drew Briggeman, Amaya Mendeguia, Lane Cole, Cierra Cole, Brennan Cole, Mariah Struzynski, Hayden Hart, Reagan Christopherson, and Clark Christopherson.
William J. Haberman
Victor - William J. Haberman, 78, of Hamilton, passed away suddenly on Wednesday June 24, 2026. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Haberman. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Ronald L. ‘Ron’ Hosea
Hamilton - Ronald L. “Ron” Hosea, 91, passed away in the morning, with Dee by his bedside, Saturday, June 20, 2026, at the Bitterroot Health in Hamilton. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Hosea. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Sara Lockhart
Stevensville - Sara Lockhart, 47, passed away at home in the early morning of Wednesday, June 24, 2026, with her loving husband at her side. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory is honored to care for Ms. Lockhart. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
Ann Harding Hamilton - Ann Harding, 73, passed away in the early evening of Monday, June 22, 2026 at Beehive Homes in Hamilton, surrounded by her loving family. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Ms. Harding. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
Obituaries are $75. Obituaries are limited to 350 words or less. $1 for every 10 extra words.
William P. Holzer
Missoula - William P. Holzer, 79, of Hamilton passed away peacefully in the morning of Tuesday, June 22, 2026 at Community Medical Center following an extended illness. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to serve Mr. Holzer. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary. com.
Larry Dale Clawson
Missoula - Larry Dale Clawson, 77, passed away on June 21, 2026 in Missoula. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
F.
75, passed away peacefully in the evening, with her husband holding her hand, Thursday, June 18, 2026 at the Community Medical Center in Missoula. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mrs. Meehan. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com.
Charles Lee ‘Chuck’ Jenne, Sr. Stevensville - Charles Lee “Chuck” Jenne, Sr., 95, passed away June 19, 2026 surrounded by family. Whitesitt Funeral Home is assisting the family.
Georgianna F. Meehan Hamilton - Georgianna
Meehan,
Young patriots helped veterans prepare Stevi for Fourth of July
by Mike Hudgins
On a warm July morning, American flags made their way down Stevensville’s Main Street one light pole at a time. Veterans from American Legion Post 94 climbed ladders to secure them overhead while preschoolers from Sapphire Early Learning Center waited below, waving their flags and eagerly handing up the next one as they prepared Main Street for Independence Day.
Some children eagerly carried bundles of flags from pole to pole while others waited patiently below the ladders, watching each American flag rise above the sidewalk. A few practiced the Pledge of Allegiance they had recently learned. Others excitedly talked about fireworks and cupcakes. Together, the veterans and preschoolers worked their way down Main Street, one flag at a time.
For the children, it was another weekly field trip. For the veterans, it was an opportunity to share a tradition that has become part of Stevensville’s Fourth of July celebration while teaching the next generation about service, citizenship and respect for the American flag.
The partnership grew out of conversations between American Legion Post 94 Commander Bob Spitzer and Sapphire Early Learning Center Director Kelsey Mahan after Spitzer visited the school to speak with students about the history of the American flag, patriotism and good citizenship. During those discussions, Mahan suggested the children might enjoy helping place the flags that line Main Street before Independence Day. The idea quickly took shape.
Spitzer said involving young children made the annual tradition even more meaningful.
“It’s teaching the kids a little bit about the flag,” he said. He hopes experiences like this leave a lasting impression, giving children an early appreciation for the flag and the community they call home. While placing flags along Main Street may seem like a simple task, he believes those small acts of service help build a
stronger sense of patriotism and civic pride.
“I think we see that lacking today,” Spitzer said. “We’re trying to teach them a little bit about it and hopefully help bring it back.”
Trinity Umland, a teacher at Sapphire Early Learning Center, said the outing reflected the school’s philosophy of connecting classroom lessons with real-world experiences.
“We try to do a field trip every week, depending on our theme,” Umland said. “We saw them putting up flags, so we reached out and asked if the kids could help. They were very excited to do it.”
Umland said activities like this help reinforce what students are learning in class by giving them an opportunity to participate in their community. Working alongside Legion members also gave the children a chance to interact with local veterans and see how volunteers help prepare Stevensville for the July Fourth celebration.
questions, offered encouragement and thanked the children for their help as they worked toward Veterans Memorial Park.
Throughout the morning, the children remained fully engaged.
Some carefully handed flags to Legion members standing atop ladders. Others carried supplies down the sidewalk or gathered around to watch each flag secured in place. Veterans answered
As the event concluded, Legion members gathered the children for a short recognition ceremony. Each child received a certificate recognizing their participation, a small American flag and a patriotic coloring book before posing for a group photo beneath the rows of freshly raised flags. The presentation gave Legion members an opportunity to thank the children for their help and recognize the role they
played in preparing Main Street for the community’s Independence Day celebration.
Spitzer said he hopes the partnership becomes an annual tradition.
“We’ll see if maybe next year we can do it again,” he said.
For Spitzer, the morning carried a personal meaning as well.
As the father of seven children and grandfather of 14 grandchildren, he said spending time with young people is one of the most rewarding parts of being involved in the American Legion. He hopes experiences like this
encourage children to remain involved in their communities as they grow older.
By the time the last flag had been raised, Main Street was ready for Stevensville’s Independence Day celebration. More importantly, a group of young children had experienced firsthand that patriotism isn’t only something learned in a classroom or spoken during the Pledge of Allegiance. Sometimes, it begins by lending a hand to neighbors and taking part in a tradition that has brought a community together, and will for years to come.
Veterans from American Legion Post 94 bring preschoolers from Sapphire Early Learning Center along to hoist American fags on Main Street in Stevensville ahead of July Fourth celebrations. American Legion members from left to right: Chuck Burgmeier, Roy Miller and Dennis Lenahan. Photo by Mike Hudgins.
Fiber optic facts
I get many sales pitches tinged with the conspiratorial “what they don’t want you to know”. The “they” being variously big pharma, the insurance industry, the medical establishment, or “the government”. Well, here is something that is a verifiable fact and the “they” that doesn’t want you to know about it is unambiguously the Republicans, especially MAGA Republicans. You have probably noticed lately that there is a lot of fiber optic cable being laid right up to your doorstep, providing a service that I think most want and employing a lot of skilled and probably well-paid people. The Biden Administration’s ARPA recovery bill and the BEAD infrastructure bill is responsible for making this happen. Both bills were adamantly opposed by most Republicans in the US House and Senate. Our entire Montana US Congressional delegation voted “no” on both. I doubt you knew that and few are going to tell you, especially those who don’t want you to know.
John Schneeberger Hamilton
AMERICA
H as a disease. Something like cancer, it is detectable by the results. The cause has been successful due to the fact that it presents itself as a religion and has been accepted as such.
The radicals within that group have concealed themselves successfully behind the facade of Faith in general. The components of that belief were largely unexamined. That failure is the result of a complex combination of factors. Chief among them is the element of complacency. The blind acceptance of a faith while ignoring analysis of its components denies the importance of that function, promoting the success of that activity. It is what it is.
The cancer reaches vital organs which as a result fail to function–either in part or as a complete failure. The effects are pervasive and with time will prove fatal.
The successes of the past do not offer progress in the presence of neglect as a result of complacency. History supports those who choose to read the message.
America, and all it represents, is at a crucial point in its existence. The afflictions in evidence are those promoted by complacency. In fact, the complacency acts to promote those very factors that threaten its existence.
The abundant proof of this state of affairs is evident in what has become commonplace.
Proof of misplaced complacency is present in the ever increasing failures within government at all levels–local, state, and national.
America is administering pain remedies to itself while being consumed by an adversary.
It’s time to fix the problem.
William (Bill) Campbell Conner
RML safety controls
Rock y Mountain Labs in Hamilton has been called out for alleged lapses in safety controls and Vincent Munster’s arrest for trying to smuggle infectious viruses into the US without proper clearance or declaring them. On Tuesday, June 30, a hard-hitting article showed up at Zero Hedge, a large financial/political news agglomeration site, with additional commentary, including notes from the Commissioner’s public meeting on June 10, at which a lot of
Opinion
questions were asked, but were often unanswered satisfactorily.
This is big news. There is intense scrutiny going on and it is unlikely that this matter, like Jeffrey Epstein, will not go away anytime soon. Instead, we ought to expect that the heat will be turned up until serious changes in policy have been made and, wherever criminal conduct is uncovered, that it is prosecuted to the full extent of the law. The lab, which may have been instrumental in the development of Sars-CoV2 virus, a.k.a., Covid, cannot be allowed to continue with disregard for the rules and must ensure that the general health and safety of the local community is guaranteed with the highest respect.
There is no excuse for failing to hold wrongdoing by RML, if any, to account, except that it is too often easier to ignore it or to hold the attitude that it’s “not my business”. Wrong! Deadly infectious diseases should be everyone’s concern, especially in our own backyard. Roger Mitchell Stevensville
Do they really think we a re that gullible?
T he history of the West is filled with stories of men preying on the hopes and dreams of people, the snake-oil salesman, the land speculator, the bait and switch scammer.
The latest scoundrel is U.S. Critical Materials, Corp., the company committed to excavating the Sheep Creek Mine. The company announced that it is relocating its corporate headquarters to Darby. According to its CEO, the move “demonstrates our commitment in a tangible way. We are investing in Montana, establishing a local presence, and creating opportunities for people to engage directly with our team.”
We’ve seen this public relations playbook before. Expect to see U.S. Critical Materials officers and directors showing-up at community events up and down the Valley, shaking hands and backslapping folks at farmers markets, fund-raisers and fairs. The company will spread cash around, making donations to youth teams and non-profit organizations. Look for U.S Critical Materials on signs and banners at the rodeo grounds, playing fields and community gatherings. The goal – to work their way, like a tapeworm, into our hearts and minds, trying to seduce people to believe the B.S. they are selling.
The harsh reality is this – if you put lipstick on a pig, you’ll still have a pig.
U.S. Critical Materials true commitment is to mine tons and tons of rock from Sheep Creek and process it on site or truck those tons of rock down West Fork Road and over Lost Trail Pass to Idaho. The company is “investing in Montana” for the sole purpose of making millions and billions of dollars for its out-of-state and foreign investors. In the end, we will be left with a hole in the ground, wrecked roads, and a fouled and polluted Bitterroot River. History repeats. Let us never forget or repeat John Prine’s immortal lyrics: “And Daddy, won’t you take me back to Muhlenberg County? Down by the Green River where Paradise lay - Well, I’m sorry my son, but you’re too late in asking - Mister Peabody’s coal train has hauled it away.”
Doug Hatchimonji Hamilton
Glass General Manager editor@bitterrootstar.com
Seven reasons NOT to elect LOVE, DAILEY, ALLEN!
Legislators can legally support mining projects like the proposed Sheep Creek Mine through indirect legislation that helps mining companies without ever naming a specific corporation. That allows companies and advocacy groups to operate politically while keeping their interests largely hidden from public view.
So, when candidates like Kathy Love, Kim Dailey, or Kenneth Allen claim the state can do little because Sheep Creek involves federal land, don’t believe them!
State legislators control many of the laws and policies that can make mining easier, cheaper, and more profitable.
Here are some of the main ways lawmakers can help industrial mining interests:
Permitting Reform
Legislators can shorten environmental review timelines, limit lawsuits, weaken state oversight under MEPA, and streamline permits. Supporters call it “reducing red tape.” Critics call it weakening environmental protections.
Tax Incentives
Lawmakers can lower severance taxes, create tax credits, reduce property taxes, or fund infrastructure benefiting mining operations. These policies can dramatically improve mining profitability while shifting costs to taxpayers.
Water Rights Legislation
Water is critical for mining. Legislators can change water permitting standards, prioritize industrial water use, weaken citizen objections, or alter adjudication procedures affecting agriculture, fisheries, groundwater, and downstream users.
Environmental Standards
Lawmakers can weaken reclamation standards, reduce bonding requirements, limit pollution enforcement, and restrict environmental challenges brought by citizens or local groups.
Infrastructure Funding
The state can indirectly subsidize mining through taxpayer-funded roads, transmission lines, rail access, broadband, and water systems supporting industrial development.
Agency Appointments
Governors and legislative leadership influence boards and agencies overseeing mining permits, water quality, environmental review, and reclamation. Personnel decisions can shape project outcomes for years.
Restricting Citizen Challenges
Legislators can narrow legal standing, shorten challenge windows, cap attorney fees, and limit judicial review, making it harder for citizens to oppose projects.
No one is claiming it is illegal for legislators to support industry. That only becomes unlawful if tied to bribery, undisclosed conflicts, or quid pro quo arrangements.
But voters should still ask HARD questions when outside political groups spend heavily supporting candidates with LITTLE TO NO experience in infrastructure, budgeting, water policy, or environmental oversight.
Montanans deserve legislators who answer first to the people of the Bitterroot, not to political organizations or industrial interests headquartered somewhere else.
Helen Sabin Corvallis
Judge Eddy for MT S upreme Court
A fter prosecuting cases for 3 years in Bozeman and being in private practice for 20 years in Billings, I was appointed as a District Court Judge in 2000 by Governor Marc Racicot. For 21 years I served in the 13th Judicial District. For the last 4 years I have mediated cases and remained active. I tried my last jury trial in October 2025 - a murder trial in Livingston.
Over the past 25 years in the judiciary, I have come to know virtually all of the judges in the state and what it takes to make a good judge. Judge Amy Eddy is one of the very best District Judges in Montana, and she will make an excellent Supreme Court Justice. Judge Amy Eddy is smart, hardworking, fair and ethical. She is a leader among the Montana judges and consistently makes timely decisions founded in law and fact - not partisanship.
Please join me in supporting Judge Amy Eddy for Montana Supreme Court. Judge Greg Todd (Ret.) Billings
Support for Judge Amy Eddy
Mo ntanans will soon face a pivotal election for a new associate justice on the Montana Supreme Court. I offer my insight in support of Judge Amy Eddy. I began practicing law in 1983, as a general practitioner, and then as both a prosecutor and a defense attorney. I served as a judge in Flathead County for 17 years, first as a Justice of the Peace and then as a District Court Judge. In 2016, I began serving as an Assistant Attorney General teaching at the Montana Law Enforcement Academy. I later served as Deputy Lieutenant Attorney General, and Deputy Attorney General. I am now a self-employed law enforcement trainer and use of force consultant.
Over time the practice of law, and judging, have changed. What has not changed, and in fact is needed more than ever, is the need for impartiality, nonpartisanship, and a dedication to the rule of law in the judiciary.
I met Amy in the early 2000’s. Amy’s intelligence, ability, and professional but friendly demeanor were immediately apparent. In 2015, she was appointed to the 11th Judicial District bench where I was serving. Judge Eddy assumed a heavy case load in a new environment. I took it upon myself to ensure that she had the resources she needed, and a judicial colleague with whom she could consult while learning the judicial process. As her exemplary record shows, Judge Eddy’s intelligence, work ethic, demeanor, and ability to communicate with all those appearing before her are unparalleled! She has served without bias, favoritism, or allegiance to political affiliation. Her commitment to the rule of law is unwavering. I know firsthand that her character, ethical foundation, and commitment to the Montana Code of Judicial Conduct are beyond reproach.
Judge Eddy is the right person at the right time.
Judge David Ortley (Ret.) Kalispell
and information that’s important to the people of the Bitterroot Valley. If you have a story idea, or any other concern, call us at 406-777-3928, email: editor@bitterrootstar.com or stop in at our ofce at 115 W. 3rd, #108, Stevensville. The mailing address is P.O. Box 133, Stevensville MT 59870. Correction Policy
Accuracy is important to us. If you see a factual error in a Bitterroot Star news story, please notify the editor immediately and we will print a correction in the next issue. Our View/Letters
Bitterroot Star editorials are written from the position of the newspaper. The personal columns and letters appearing on the Opinion page and elsewhere in the paper represent the opinion of single individuals and do not necessarily refect the position of the newspaper. The Star welcomes public comment and encourages letters to the editor. Letters on local topics or issues are given priority for publication. Letters should be 450 words or less. Shorter letters generally have a better chance of prompt publication. While letters expressing appreciation for a specifc, out-of-the-ordinary action are welcomed, letters with lists of names of contributors, donors or volunteers are not accepted as letters to the editor. Author’s name, address and phone number (for verifcation, not publication) are required. We do not run letters anonymously. We attempt to run all letters, but reserve the right to edit for length, accuracy, clarity, content and libel. We ask that writers email letters to us, and do not turn them in by hand. This increases the chances the letters will get printed. Our staf already has a full workload.
Bitterroot Star staf
“Grandpa Chuck, can you take me fishing?”
The night before I had given Sterling a fly rod of his very own. That night he held the rod and reel close to his chest with both hands. A group of us had camped on the West Fork to celebrate my birthday.
The following morning I visited two families at their camp.
Sterling still had the rod and reel clutched to his chest – probably slept with it the night before.
for boys, not old men, I thought.
John
by Chuck Stranahan
Sterling is a bright and active eight-year-old, the youngest of my grandsons.
Last year I joined his family on the Clark Fork for a picnic dinner and evening of fishing.
“Grandpa Chuck,” the thenseven-year-old asked, “Did you bring a fly rod for me?” He was crawling-out-of-his-skin eager. After all, I had promised.
“Yes I did, Sterling.” I showed him how to assemble the rod and reel, and string the line through the guides.
“Will you show me how to cast? Will you take me fishing?” His questions were incessant.
“After I finish my dinner,” I answered.
He learned fast, fished on his own, raised some trout and was hooked – although he missed the trout.
A year later he asked again.
“Grandpa Chuck, will you take me fishing?”
I looked at the big trees strewn across the streambed and the steep bank leading down to Boulder Creek. This is terrain
Marrow is a wonderful kid in his early teens that I enjoy fishing with. He had just joined us after catching and releasing a pair of native Westslope Cutthroats –one of them good-sized, for Boulder Creek.
“John, can you take Sterling fishing?” I asked. John was eager. “Sure!” he answered.
Sterling’s face brightened as he followed John down the bank, into the stream, over some fallen logs that seemed taller than they were, around the bend and out of sight.
They reappeared a couple of hours later, Sterling with a grin frozen to his face and his
rod clutched in one hand, a seven-inch trout clutched in the other. The two families, John’s and Sterling’s, gathered around him to celebrate. Mom got a picture.
The ritual was not yet complete. The little fish still wiggled occasionally in Sterling’s grasp. “Do you want to kill it and eat it?” I asked Sterling.
“Sure!” came the answer.
It was a little late, but I showed Sterling how to make a quick and merciful kill.
“Where there are lots of fishermen and not enough fish, we release all of them back into the water,” I told him as I cleaned the fish. “Here, where there are lots of fish and not many people, it’s OK to kill and eat your first one.” Sterling understood.
He’ll be back, continuing to
learn more in wide-eyed wonder about fishing and taking care of the resources. If we’re lucky, some of those trips will be with John and Grandpa Chuck.
Chuck Stranahan is a nationally published writer, fly tyer and designer who lives in the Bitterroot Valley. He can be reached at chuckstran@gmail. com.
Grandpa Chuck, John and Sterling celebrate Sterling’s frst fy-caught trout. Photo by Danielle Mellott.
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$5.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star ofce, 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville.
BITTER ROOT IRRIGATION DISTRICT
Bitter Root Irrigation District is looking to hire a full time manager. Salary: Based on qualifcations (Salary). Location: Corvallis, Mt Interviews: July 14, 2026 (Call for appointment meeting times 10 am 12 pm) Summary: Under general direction from irrigation commissioners perform professional level work regarding all aspects of water resources, including staf supervision, planning, surveying, capital improvement projects, encroachments, right-of-way management, districts ongoing modernization programs, required to have a CDL license and able to operate heavy equipment, do presentations in front of large gatherings and to meet with state representatives. Bitter Root Irrigation District Ofce Location; 1182 Lazy J Lane Corvallis, Mt 59828, Phone 406-961-1182
OFFICE ASSISTANT NEEDED for a faith-based, alternative veterinary/wellness clinic in the Bitterroot Valley. Duties include phone management, computer work, light cleaning and caring for animals and their people. Part-time/full-time. Call 406361-9958.
FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back!
ESTATE SALE
Step Back in Time Estate Sale! 501 3rd Street South, Hamilton 7/9 = 10 to 5(prices frm), 7/10 = 10 to 4, 7/11 = 10 to 3(most ½ price). This sale is a virtual time capsule from the 1800’s to the 1980’s. The house, garage, & 2 sheds are stufed with antique furniture and collectibles. Plan on hauling purchases, having patience, watching your step and enjoying a step back in time! No earlies - Cash.
READ THIS !! Classic cars and boats for sale. 1929 Ford Shay roadster, 1956 Ford Fairlane 4 door, 1997 Mastercraft Prostar 205, Riviera barrel back “woody.” All like new & garaged. Honest old school seller. 406-422-8200
ANTIQUE OUTDOOR FLEA MARKET. Over an acre of antiques and collectables from many vendors. Sunday, July 12 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Virgelle, of U.S. 87 between Fort Benton and Big Sandy. Sponsored by Virgelle Merc Antiques. Lunch available. 1-800-426-2926 or WWW.VirgelleMontana.com.
