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Coveringthe theBitterroot BitterrootValley Valley- “Where – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Owned Locally&Owned & Independent Covering Montana Begins!” - Established 1985 - Locally Independent
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B e ‘Th
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Robert’s Run turns eight Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary
37 29 39 Volume Number 35 Volume XXXVII, Number 30 XXXVII, Number 28 Volume XXXIX, Number 33 29 Volume XLI,XXXIX, Number 52 Volume XXXVII, Number
30, Wednesday, February 9, 20 Wednesday, January 26, Wednesday, March 13, 20 Wednesday, March 6,202 Wednesday, July 2026 Wednesday, January 31, 202 Wednesday, February 2, April8, 10,
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Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercente open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Kristin MichaelKruse Howell by
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have an tional and physic andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the prop Thechanges park additional impact on peopl therapy services – by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision review the environmen John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.of It’sDowd been a long time organizersprovided tofinalize Colleen board made property taxes. byby John race The Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. public safety, and across the impacts byincluding handing off its thera over 220 people theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. The TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to thea loan, logistics. Bitterroot Health Commissioners gave condiAccording toonthewere prelimito the rural character of the is a founder was alsoofdiscussed. In that mandated duties to“It other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people lined up out the door. Ramsey the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. was Mile Community Center is up who serves to take out a project was paid for by been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imagi The eighth annual “From a planning perheld a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to nary plat the area. A substantial number of case, the Upper Missouri agencies and ignoring num Phillip Ramsey, head biologist at it’s MPG heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as well as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald and running. Located at 4433 both the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for Robert’s Run will be held spective, harder to Oswald fitsubdivision and lab ceremony, said concerning the Sen ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments expressed concern Waterkeepers and a group ous specific, documentable was attended by(the people from all ove Ranch in Florence, apeople presentatation a resident of the West Fork. He has Saturday, Aug. 1, beginning in,”board Martin said. Sunnyside Cemetery Road, and the in Darby and contacted him, the project. Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said An open house celebration was organization’s 50 years of service, “ for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents living close and clearly defined impacts at sport Hamilton High School. “Race logistics are 11 based tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and in school Montana, including Anacon theits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 shooters to gather, sotheyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root numbers was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on a 49.22-acre parcel the Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the such as Race Director Doug Martin on those before complex that will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and away a of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnic cialize, compete and hone their Humane Association’s (BRHA) new ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by am the facility open said organizers are expectthat date.” of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abunmetal contamination in rivers. HeFarmers has Helena even into Idaho. This (RCFWA), onathe Creek by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Uning contains large meeting State and rummage sales, bingo nigh skills, the north club also functions as Mine a they started built just of Sheep Last weekend the Bitter ing501c3 more than 1,200located particRegistration fees for dayRamsey, animal on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular trips per to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County and been in the area and failin proposal. According to Oswald, limited. according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conse room, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from comm by spring of 2023 non-profit supporting the Stevensville at the Humane Association participatipants, making this year’s the 1-mile fun run and Mile Creek Road and Upper road system. Additionally, and some already having to the Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on th Road in Hamilton. The event served a Kathie Butts, President of the president of the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, and has been his bio on the Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this in 2012 their loan nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan See Mine, page corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in a nationevent one of the largest 5K are $29 through July Woodchuck Road east of the applicant is proposing to be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. double purpose. It included a ribbon Board, said, “This organization has system, and a gorgeous view and incorpopayments contributors were the Thre programs such as The Bitteron continuing to since the fundraiser began. 17 and increase al “slumber party” event. Creek Road and Florence. The land is honor being dedicate a 100-foot by 100were also expressed about the (DNRC) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothe rated in$34 2014. Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new to a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. According toThe club “This is theshelter primary afterward. Thesaid 10K the costs for the use and expand services. Bitterroot branded their Hwy 93. developed by Laura Watson of foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct that th the west. She Those payRock Park and the Rapp Fa members, hundreds of kids have facility,for including tours of the whole started about 50 years ago. I feel a fundraiser the founda$34 before the deadline event the “Slumber Pawty,” which “We’re bringing t Watson Homes LLC who was benefit of the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or duty to provide the statutor The building is now home total cost is ments come ily Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in that program building, and an array ofand food and huge sense of responsibility to hono tion,” Martin said, speaking $39 after. Particiopened the shelter to community represented by the engineerDistrict and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife required information lies w carebefore tosaid theus patien to the senior center and the approximateouton ofnearby park Schmiedeke there the years. Along with theirwhoFire terroot Health CEO, drink in honor of the organization’s those who have come and of over the Play Like Robert pants register for the members who participated to stay$8,000 ing company Professional to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], t Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who own programs, the club supports he said. Foundation. trifecta, which includes 50th birthday. make it as good as it can be as we se said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, among Consultants Inc. (PCI). Fire District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect in its im that serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has over Organizers of Robert’s three pay Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi tallorganization the course for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 events, The proposal ispark for sinThe A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County ca The surrounding conSchmiedeke assessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the parShriners andIn Run are encouraging $39 before July 17Commissioners and peth, chair ofwith the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon The Sun- received gle-family residential use dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. Th The Montana Hope Project. ticipants tooften register before $44 afterward. Runners It is said that Three Mile Community Senior Center board members, l to r, Colorganization conducted a successfu Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County that DNRC. He criticized the counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the is proud that general contractor donated July 17, is when entry fees who register by July 24 club utilized by local schools, little locally owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page with the animals, wore fundraisingSee campaign fund the n granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave saidto this project courts, ashelter walking a are playgroupanhad they didn’t increase and race planning guaranteed event Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts bookstores are a waning See the CENTER, pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then Covid-19 the BRHA land on Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run enters its final stages for T-shirt. has been four pag yea and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of the shelter. pandemic hit and construction cost with a Bitterroot 99-year lease. later,the event is one of the Val- Six years Although others. in the works, but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over and ley’s annual com-the U.S. centered around running, As a result, the group inlargest 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive diOne Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured from left, leads a gathering peopleskyrocketed. involved in the celebrating the opening of the new animalfifth shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michaelof Howell. even out of the country held the munity events. Martin said participants had to take out a mortgage to finish the land to the organization where rector, Tomtake Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Martin, owner of Hamdo not have to race comBitterroot Health building project in a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on Trap the property that had Sueby McCormack, who serves on Club members linehoused up for athe shoot. Photo Kristin Kruse. thethis, current shelter is located. The Hamilton to as they were reSee TRAP, ilton Physical Therapy and See SHELTER, page hour period. The event ispetitively. apage fund-5 pandemic. She sa shelter since 1984. theat organization’s of directors will be built on land located the corner ofboard Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being Associates clinics, said “This is for all ages raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is tha by John Dowd do. According to Steinhoff, “We have just north of the Stevensville Junction. an registration “outstanding model byabilities,” cumstances, having She adds that the early is imall heBoddy said. ipants each work to raise and funds toNathan to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important portant not only because it Robert’s Run began donate to their respective shelters. Hamilton City Council met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said Christine Staub, a driving falling victim to mail way to combat the Hamilton Downtown facility will besuc mo saves participants money, following the funeral of Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as been providing “quality, Individual community businesses day, March tohelps discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. abuse is for people Association. will butalso alsodonated because5They itto of a “medical center” rather than jus the fundraiser, Hamilton. accessible, personalized See RUN, page 7 time, race begins,they last year. courtesy Martin. upcoming city projects. at the though may to Doug 901 S. 1st Street, wasThe recently AsPhoto aneed certified shipto ask also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said thatquestions Marcus Dal The new 12-acre campus will care” for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of ping depot for FedEx, and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. Hospital, which is a critical access about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.”the Farrenkopf In recent years, theyShoppe provide primary, care, urgent care and Appreciation by Mayor DomiBoxxe versation with tho Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners throug There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it at hospital, was recently rated #4 in the specialty services. Two physicians have Farrenkopf is legally justified to you know and love co-owners, and been taking steps to a lengthy fund by fund bythe Victoria Howell me like a ton of of slumber party, and a barbelier, made it into the opening. After the time. However, at the end of the Police Chief Stephen Snavely. open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national ra ing to one of them, Mara Every year, the Ravalli accounting that, to su already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to the meeting, during the non-agenda items In his presentation to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Asso-been up, shows thefaciliti count ing agency, outitof 351 similar practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have in the Burnt area lately to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion the counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways they ciation works to affect conseroverall, doing very we visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. Victoria Howell being recruited. ThereGlass willby also be by Sarah sified as one ofvictims the largest and he said, with clinics in doingaresent to Covid, Greg home from retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and are told, bu have been so successvation in the Bitterroot through on its tax collections a Many ofthe thepublic participants thatperiod heaviest helicopters in the U.S. The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet has a During comments. Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that ove the ful. Joined by the other showing revenues various projects and programs. spent night were will kids. During morning in military – aRavalli Super Stallion CHtional Forest (BNF) Cowboy Ball at the County message for you: of the the council meeting, Robert “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. It was a serene The toStein“become more vocal about a witness, are, “often coached owners, Katrina Mendrey 50% of projections in One such program is their the slumber party, participants the Bitterroot National Forest 53E – came into view. hoststood afool public meetingthe council. Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. This is hoff toNeyenhuis, address He things saidthat council member Jenny “It the He was home for don’t around! the good happen able toWest. uncover to say they are ship and Marisa most departments wh scholarship program, which near Lost Horse Creek Lodge on The helicopter, known for its took part in a “tortilla slap game,” this Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers Overstreet, two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having who can expenses only o Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the Photo by John Dowd. awards three winners June 25. shelter. The forest was awake, heavy-lifting capacity,have then disap30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page 11 hosted by the County Fish and and possibly Stevensville as well.” Her ing his department’s experiof the package: nearly paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy of a jubilee an attorney in During that time, amounted to 23% of three people allows them an interest in pursuing birds speaking in staccato and peared beyond view, where militodisplay share Association information Wildlife and Trout Unlimthoughts were shared by several other ence with Ms. Staub was one $16,000 in cash, common tactics fo and former council member, the public at the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections due intolarg to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, piercing calls. A woodpecker tary support specialists worked by Victoria Howell regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the part to job vacancies Freeman is the chair ofcargo this year’s do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural auburn bark securely attach to it. appears to be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to was 51, at work on theRod ment of a draft forest lip Ramsey to speak on the dangers In discussion agenda In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly send-from a normalofof claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe fill a nearby Ponderosa pine tree. is also Thethe exercise was athe display said Luther. The spread sciences. event. Freeman chair of Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management At the second regular of a proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, the first to be brought forward er came to the Boxxe Shoppe ing to a scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, Then came a different type of of one of the many ways throuOne big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one council and mayor how local Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Plan (CMP). The virtual tional council members. meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, “I thought was the issue of re-roofing the city intending to send a package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli call, one from Marine Master gh which the Department of the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. N by John Dowd of that time as the executive director. of the winners to receive aMara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section.that Photo John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate fo February of 2021. 51 by is brain Christine Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will beto held on See BOOKS, page 18 government should run. He “We’ll do our job,” said it wasn’t going affect me, but I street shop. According to Hamilton via FedEx. Administration. Sgt. Newman. “Do you have an War (DoW) IRT simultaneously County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, on After it was announced that he would be Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and als He wentSee through damage material.” Zoom. below for only than Boddy. learned that it would take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer Sometimes ETA when the bird comes valley. provides community service they and was a frequent commenter Gibson retiring, he was asked to speak, and was got into it because hefor owns the Paper For him, the experience has be On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the who high school in January 27, town clerk Jenelle in the Army for 21 years, his and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Seeorganizational COUNTY, page in?” he asked over his radio. military training on tell U.S. soil. seemed con-introduced will their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Five fundraising skills,According and discipline, haveone been put in he was wasthe no joke. “It A small group of Forestof the IRT fused and unOver that aliterature, loved has hurting.” said that he heard plow storage for other maintehosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law andand the current executive suggested to him that he victims, get involved peoplevictims all overto the valley,” andthe all of i completed a semester of college the last administration. In from Hamilton, was recpotential but wishes similar meetings audience that she was having good use as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee Service (FS) members with the program was authorized untold that the cancer got so bad I felt familiar with course of her landed in jail, or that a prize about the track record of the company nance equipment. According to Radirector. Al gave told a history ognized of the chamto network. Hethat thenothers got onto the board has been “extremely rewarding.” for members, giving their annual report, and submitted herin transcript within the commupublic Crews for in (virtual) were held Bitterroot National Forest andsaid the Title 10 U.S. Code §2012 inneeds Freeman committee hopes trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won, but a to feeraise had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was notwhat very comment, mer,and it isspoke the original roof, which hasstepping in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became Alder was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about ber, about important memproviding proof of compLeting nity would help her look out 2021. military members involved in year, response toexpansion thefor 1992 “Rebuild the council that those makto handle the prosecution $50,000 this for the of the rode and Staub the Boxxe to be paid release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsome significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said they have planned for the upcoming bers during that time that led up to him the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the adv associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one Inhas addition to the been in the Innovative Readiness Training America” initiative. The old,” code by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting he sa surgery on October was being water taking on the position. Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition in year. During the meeting, it was also the former YouTube chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn and eachpicious (IRT) focused on aiding the FS grants the DoWuse the aauthority In addition to the custom leathwhen has now commonly legitimate seven times already, time left will cut down on the heating bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting bang the “The mayor, notofthe GregValley Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided what story the Bitterroot 55boarded, board members and participated the role. Al will services be retiring in August t announced that long-time member,address Al cants must meet tolonger be eligible was a from resident at a local nel they had was no stood apart the aircraft “toaddress, provide and support about and participate Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition to Rose Allen Photo courte considering recovered but(left. will be ready to taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. After Al spoke, Jodi stood removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and operation zone, where repair for eligible non-Department ofto tha the process of developworking but they had set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately the customgrab the package from a porc Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there anygle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, He said theCovid-19. organization’s According towith him for all his help to activities” remind him back from the the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual cowboy balland –and which actuall Another of thesethis requiretreatment boarding to history. bematerials had to be provided a ride for the Selway suspenWar organizations isage notand a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, er’s Mist, a in new business haseven recently and regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page 21 athing new Facebook page. Hower’scould in was meant to be a six-month or front door when it arrives. the city was doing, or Mitchell has been with the Chamoverarching goal for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what he was only supposed to speak for yea 10 ments is that each applicant started 11 years ago but couldn’t be held last sion bridge awaited transport. within the U.S. and its territories. to the bank as well as to the colon cancer journey. like,” recalls week’s meeting will covsession. “It’s public did work the work no charge to opened at the same location. Howevartists havecomment.” not shown their in at the particular cash, all of “They always direct the ever, members of the public ber for over 36 years, and spent much always been to keep businesses connectappointment to the position lasted 12 minutes. GustsShoppe. of wind stirred, IRT is to increase mili- this a 500-word essayabout dis- the Boxxe due toand thethe pandemic – meant has been upgraded The day after that Overstreet. “This ersubmit the following agenda er, dissuading any worries thehad Bitterroot Valley before, so there details the which was to victim tothat send it,membership ‘no signatur The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment Jodi stated the thrum of rotating blades intentary deployment readiness while cussing the role hunting “It’s common sense to me,” year. topics: surgery, was is when realized changeover, it will remain a place ofthat should be aanswering lot of interest inand theMark new transaction. being fraudurequired,’” she adds. Fredhe Upchurch, Savannah Deuter Oswald hold the been check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Assoc ly would be publicly thank Joan for helpThe Town of Stevensville recognized attorney Joan Mell, providing “key services (health of it. “It’s a good ride for 29 numbers have been “trending ever she says, pointing out that redfirst year we’ve ever done aup Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall “This is the fully diagnosed with that I was not art. After two months of renovations material. There are 16 artists in total Military landing support specialists lently deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. care, construction, transportation, years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highes See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town,” flags abound when seniors are for pilots filling in while attorney Greg Overstreet objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. The University COVID-19. taking Covid center, while hidden behind brown-paper and helicopter coordinate se- town ly, it covwas notso far, and the owners are always manded from of 1970 requires banks to and cybersecurity) with lasting being on the other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes of the public ofPictured Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Studio opened for“I patience as Jake’s she worked curing repair materials for the Selway was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s firstwelcoming more. “We like all kinds senior citizen keep track of withdrawals benefits for our American comhe added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, pag is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should be forsaid some its doors March 1.said ofprepared mediums,” Lottermoser’s are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order suspension bridgedinner. to a Super Desserts Stallion very weakened,” munities.” through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new business will feature business partner, Suzette Smith. encountered the commuSee STEVI, page 2 “interesting comments” from CH-53E. Photo by Alexandra Stuart, Nearly 300 U.S. guardsmen Greg Overstreet talks about his recent brush with death due to Overstreet. “It hit Jim Crews, former mayor bank to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. See COWBOY BALL page SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom leatherwork byPhoto Karen such cirnity.See Staub is US Forest Service. Covid. by VictoriaSome Howell. See SCAMMERS, page See STALLIONS, page 3 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one ofpage the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants County Commissioners work is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plan by John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with a On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensvila proved adoption of a memorandum of understand of tooling which features variations on has changed since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contes by ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue work byJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing with the Ravalli County DUI Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith took over the space. While A Hamilton business,In that hails the theme is pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice the change at all, the andinvestigation. it may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After the ing and marketing as one. “Weand didn (DCI) will be doing the commissioners statedwant Protection Agency. The lette National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a secured video designe to her leatherwork, isaround also RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working toinan enand theto contest is still looking agricultural leadership competito the level and invita by Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the southand portion was purchased tostate change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 1st, 4:30 1889, According Hamilton Police Depart- sale, to help parents keep tabs on their children’s beha accomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations manage timber to provide Plan. courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twel Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of the previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Police, Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to A new the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high school students, 9th to 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the toevents. forest products and toof unmitigated SEIS record of decision changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change wilf in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on by Victoria Howell if it would be possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, showgrades. 95th State FFA the Convention in Billings 2023-24 district championships by Victoria Howell year, the facility took inthe just under Finley saidissued the orgabynot John Dowd The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rock be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though franchise has split affect buyers and sellers in the valle suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concern was on December 17, retain old growth status in all county owned/maintained to put envelopes on January 18, for filing objecby Victoria Howell his property which would in effect with the highway, which is a state addressed when the private land wa a Mischief Room last May and commissioners all her work is done her own two casing the participant’s love of art, Corvallis anddrag, Florence schools inthe April. for Stevensville include: nization has worked to $240,000 and spent every penny. venville’s main beckons visitors ies Bluegrass Association, there wil es might affect them. Fortunately, rights that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Exitroads Realty is still the equipment Lendman said that itand will not chang venience Store. Theby engagement took Snavely stated that an inquest is also ing the scope of the analysis treatment units. According to from heavy 2021 accompanied by a Draft all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because now you’re going to sold to a new owner Fish, Wild signed off on it. The project involved the creation tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers orthreatened CNC maincrease awareness of Last weekend, while and the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the most active, though allof Over 200 students in Rockies StevensAgronomy led the by Sidney Jasmin Shinn, founder and There no paid employees; it’sMcan al“N The annual Montana beare no break from music, and, according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold fransame company. Additionally, accord-mostly, in. Photo by John Dowd. place the suspect and standard init, these types kopf, activities director put valentine cards Theafter Stevensville Town CounPark, ain 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucksatrucks, pulling and Parks got involved. once-p and logging the letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides aprocedure site-speathe Forest Service press release set of easily accessible items that hadThe secret hid Darby’s role in the exmost people were celebratATR Smart Procedures is a softschools in the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education program Casland, 1st place individual with tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up. Just get up there and play.” current owner of the valley half chise was split between thesituations. north ing to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot executive director ofnorth 1 Horse volunteer organization. But Shinn said reportedly charged at the responding officer involved shooting See EXIT, page at Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf really cil was split on whether to accept just to the north of the private piece of boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs to the state compartments where someone could stash some pedition, noting that the ing(Draft the country’s 250th root Forest Plan’s Forest-wid about 90% of the proposed but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment ware design company, now based in participate. Some of tremendous the schools even learn aboutFestival a wide is range of agriculteam members Rahl,toKyra D SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass returning to For some of Quinn these bands, this w officer. “We have seen supAt A Time Draft Horse it costs about $200 per month feed Homes inHowever, Hamilton, isRescue liked the idea. He asked a small of land near the property. Crews contacted the county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per hour - there is aflask developed fishing access sit drugs orthe hide aand small of whiskey. The aim wa group’s activities and Sabirthday, a piece group in park Darby Hamilton. after moving to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. Management Wildlife Reto Willow Creek Road. Due to defining old-growth stantreatment areas are within an Victor. On Saturday, April 13, the be their first time, and for others th Theinofficers attempted to provide port, and we greatly appreciate all Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot these “gentle there are facility Corvallis, gotitem acajawea nice asking the community students at schools Stevensville bridge, an that was have and negotiated the donation of the are going to under be accidents there.” “But I giants.” think opportunity it’sThen [the piece the Park been was remembering another to provide a learning toon see t Montana, the organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn Ha Neely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is resource and financial limitasource Objective to “Mainta area designated for insect and dards. Some objections to the life-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was boost last week when she was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and to send his residents a and daycares to make National Forest project that featured in the Lewis historic event that took considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson said he didn’t west] still a viable piece of land for various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen in love with the According to the contest orgaengaging instruction of ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team Last year lopes. the music. This spring music festival always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported by ambuespecially proud of this during atreatment time old-growth habita disease because of the tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this special envelopes and and Clark Trail Heritage place near the town 220 associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck for $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river access pending the outcome of see what use theenveland is to the town. “Iother city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One of the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, an lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history that he believes is Foundation’s newsletter. years ago.representatives tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the county. The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only see a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Mo not be able to accommodate on suitable timberland to by the January 18 deadline dense pockets of dead and dyfrom of JCCS, an these horses. When they’re fi nally read Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, of commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. to be more reallysupport popular, and from allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Ev fromAbout his to wounds andawas pronounced seeing lowest law en- had The group’s primary According four years resident. people piece, which is located adjacent tomostly the Then Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, most can be driven or the accounting fihistorirm with branch the necessary support viable populations ingfor trees. They claim the area will having tothe dowith with theparticipation been through their art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: te mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton mission is maintaining ans, the Lewis and Clark by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a in resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. B then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’ located Hamilton. Part of contest the logging ridden, and some just become “pasture idea came from a similar art from all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Ha of old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the of old growth, newdonated one willon take the stage every half and play, along with theirhave friend Ti within acame 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” and improving Sacajawea Expedition through center opened itsto doors in 2020 after to Farrenkopf to see tines to fill the of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was the condition that looking long term, if you prop See VALENTINES, page 10 pets.” selection for awarding that gift See DUI, page they held in Houston, Texas right af- along These also include Trapper Creek Job opened tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz first to be created in the last “Itheads really the beetle, in 2020. That developfirst was to the drawing board. John Down rehabilitation of thelevy road after species.” The letter notes tha tial toIn wildlife and tobank beetle, Douglas-fir bark hour. Ezzell bass. Park, located Main theby Bitterroot Valley and and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away on Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli County for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west side ofestablished the river,and th 1 Horse At A Time was was online voting and according ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, One of the problems, ac50 years. To do this, they will door to some interesting permanent and asked for $9.5 Street in downtown was in Darby around the One band that continues to return According to Conroy, the festiva issued a press release that detailed ment, Snavely noted there have only the Draft SEIS limits the sco dwarf mistletoe and western the project is complete. Ravalli Willow Creek Road. together to decide what was needed just to the north of Fort Owen State potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially conso tains east of Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to was astonished, last toofhave that To Johnny contendCampbell at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea conversations million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we “Hopefully, the third need tooccuask the community Darby. The Fourth of July. Thetenure Bitterispeople,” the Band, visiting purpose isits “toenvironmental promote and encour event and investigation. However, been three these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, apark or not needed in theyear, community. They with County objects to in shifting of conseBitterroot National Forest spruce budworm damage. During the of former issues… It isof the fastest part of the years. idate highway property into the Tow The original proposal was The next glass recycling event in button, cell phone batteries (out of feature the beauty of the state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen pies the site of a former root Heritage Civic Group, is the charm,” commented to pass a levy, which BVCC said Butter, speaking about was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what th Germany where she grew up around Simmerman, 1 Horse At A Time from Nashville. They will be memjoined by of age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information is available However, these are always a of danger of nonprofit organization that offers a at came up and with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the owner of land channel the deepest part the Vickie Motley, park board Stevensville. I think It’s somethin quences analysis to vegetati in general financial burden of the project officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info to give back to the community, and “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett restaurant that was a local Darby organization, withdrawn in August of 2020 Bitterroot Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Communi horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program side targetcenter, which is were modeled after a that highly atbeen the river ononce the northeast had channel. If you toart develop ber, said that had been done RDO Equipment Co. the woodpecker an agreement with the proposed to2more. Ravalli County and believe project is designed to improve from 10 a.m.nothing tounsure p.m. at theevent north if you don’t have batteries toabout recycl destroyed by fire and has hasCollege working tothe showthought their successful art said Hafer,the saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colto of exactly how the College was.” However, the (BVCC) trustee and without success. campaign, which helped the soula, Idaho and The is abut all share thepileated same love of bluegrass after Friends of Bitterroot she is especially passionate getters. The officer is currently on leave neither officer, nor any other comed towards highly motivated people successful organization in Denver, attempted to shut off river access on for fishing, I would also see a problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, pag been transformed into a case the area’s historic end of the Ravalli County Fairnow you can save up to bring them contest was the way to go. According come in all forms. District in Montana consists of twelve Harris 8571 Running W. Road The vote will take place organization to speak with the process worked. They were seems to have been a major secretary, Sue Smith. She was it is contrary to current law pine marten. forest resilience to natural project, the Ravalli County single-microphone type event, with a When asked why he loves bluegras during thisolder investigation, as is stanmunity members, were during draft horses. She and her husband, a That check followed inRavalli the wake ages 18 and in Wild both and called “Crosspurpose.” It harmed offers similar and Alliance for the significance and the events grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on Jun to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will beinsects the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meye misunderstanding about th speaking about the organizaon May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under thatthe theStar single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growt Commissioners expressed and existing agreements.” disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 dard protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition to services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children of a $25,000 gift in November See BLUEGRASS, pag Rockies filed suit claiming the See DARBY, page 4 surrounding the expedition 8th. gallon. Jars and bottles that coning director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying even the college. public desired an independent nature of the community tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair free career training, Summit offers six-month offered species are listed i Forest officials also received and disease;The reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks or relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20from Tractor Supply. 406-549-4171 while itthe was there. agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be lead coordinator, Tamar Hafer, the ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will Local Ted presented ask public foruse help with a author Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling According to also Butler mentoring, support and friendship toHallsources is broken down into three acre farm which Shinn said can suppor That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip Strobel the Forest Plan, but it is not county owned and maintained ment in the Willow “We’re really proud of for this a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception has been This year, they will be away compete in FFA includAg Sales place team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by a high the metallic showcamany believe it toby be rare opportunity to incredible. create a new andmap, wanted to hold true.” She thephase trustees said that voted inofpreviously walks through their doors. Stevens that thegiving first isJasmin RDOequipment.com ourwhoever community and the about about 20 horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear whether there are othe roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stay on, but please remove lids. Sponsored by the non-profits When speaking the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the AA schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individua levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreac community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have sing Lewis and Clark’s exact A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l to r: Levi Clark, CPA, Andrea Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comThis program is the brainchild of called “personal development,” which progress we’re making, as taking care of draft isthrough Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) an in the Bitterroot, Lander said, “All ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to with team members Jones Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. According tohorses trustee worked to alter the levy to testing time they is went to the the district was levy program run Kamryn by the Univers path Ravalli County at and Manager, Will Ramsey, CPA.first pictured Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable toAdminply with the definition of old power duo Myla Yahraus, the owner involves aptitude toAlso idenfarterroot. as historic connections an expensive proposition. Last will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page them have had some sort of Montana winners, which take the form of grant four of the twelve chapters are in the Teigen Hackett, and Charlie Leona See GOLD, page for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality i vice chair, Jean Butler, this give it its best chance and to public, they did so after being •FREEby ESTIMATES INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR IMPROVEMENT Cof Olast .COM Sacajawea Park weekend. istrator In a At letter to the Forest habitat including first horse thatmeadows, was rescued 1 Horse A Photo by Victoria Howell. of the Environmental the Fort Owen Ranch and founder tify what each individual’s specific go,” said Gay Finley, aHOME growth found the Bitterroot per pound. The following will be acFor more information refer to t theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, address the concerns of the approved for the creation of being significantly voted down would be only the fourth of Photo by ExecJohn Dowd. member of the and group. the center, co-founder and Paid for by Brad Davis, P.O.website: Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page ART, page 44 SeeSee SUMMIT, page cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such as old and Corvallis.
Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Cowboy Ball Surviving COVID Climbing Super Stallions support forest projects scheduled Plan Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meetin
New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task
Force, MAPS to partner on Art contest seeks Stevi FFA chapter Hamilton officers special video more participation
sweeps district North valley Exit Realty has a new face fire Butterfly on suspect Bluegrass Festival Gold project draws some objections Spreading love Local draft rescue thriving When Lewis andhorse Clark came through Darby Stevi to return park land to county set for Saturday
Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance
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