Legion Post 94 stevensville invites all who would like to attend and HONOR OUR VETERANS’ GRAVES by placing flags on their graves for Memorial Weekend
Friday, May 22nd • 6:00 p.m.
Placing flags on veterans ’ graves starting at Riverside Cemetery, Maplewood and Sunnyside Memorial Day
Monday, May 25th • 6:00 p.m.
Short memorial service at Riverside Cemetery, the playing of taps and volleys fired, then to Maplewood Cemetery, St. Mary ’s Cemetery, Veterans Park and Sunnyside Cemetery
Dear Stevensville and Florence,
Have you had enough of the dog and pon y elephant and donkey show?
These two corrupt, kleptocratic parties are doing a fine job of driving our nation into the ground. God willing and with your help, District 88 will be the first in Montana to break this juggernaut. Put this independent delegate (not trustee) on the Novem ber ballot and YOU, not the donors or the lobbyists or the blackm ailers, will decide what happens in Helena.
See how our sim ple formula and system work s at montanaforhouse.com and I will see you on the corner of Third and Main in Stevensville this com ing Saturday, Ma y 23rd as I collect signatures for the ballot. Thank you, Daniel Shum wa y (for Montana house representative district 88)
Paid for by Daniel Shumway
FORUM: candidates talk Sheep Creek Mine, water, growth, cuts
Continued from page 1
ty and need for both afordable and standard housing options.
As far as eforts to address the need, Mathew Roth, a candidate for Ravalli County Commissioner District 1, answered saying ofcials do not and cannot control prices, that is for the economy to decide. This was a sentiment shared by all others who answered.
Jef Burrows, incumbent Ravalli County Commissioner of District 3, added that the free market has to drive the price. Burrows is running unopposed but attended to help provide some context to the conversations from a sitting commissioner.
Stephan Kowal, also running for Ravalli County Commissioner District 1, responded to the question of housing difculty, saying, for him, the problem is not just the price for people moving in. Kowal added that these rising prices are also “pricing out people that have lived here a long time.”
“I agree it’s not something the government can regulate, but I’m not willing to give up on something we could do to help,” said Kowal. Another question for the local panel was on how they planned to accommodate for growth. Monaco said they would need to “embrace growth responsibly.” Not to would be a “losing
battle.” He added that Ravalli County has the lowest number of deputies per capita in the state. That would make responses to calls difcult as the population grows.
Holton admitted that the area is “rapidly growing,” but added that “Law enforcement is by its nature reactive.” He explained that more ofcers would require more funding, but that would need to wait for a higher tax base.
Scott Burlingham attended on behalf of Jennifer Ray. Burlingham is currently Justice Court Judge for Department 2 for Ravalli county and Ray is running for election for Justice Court judge of Department 1. For him, they would need to get ahead of the growth or lose what makes this community special.
Kowal echoed Holton’s comments, noting, “calls for service are just through the roof, right now,” but it is difcult to get ahead of some of the service based on the limited tax base.
Commissioner Burrows said commissioners are really not in control of whether people move to the area or not. They are also limited in the ways they can address growth without a growth policy.
“It sounds like Burrows is passing the buck, but he’s not,” said Roth. According to him, they are confned by the Montana Code Annotated.
To the voters of Ravalli County
As the primary election approaches, I would take a moment to commend the electorate for their patience and discernment in the messy and often frustrating business of “government by the people.” I have been to hundreds of your doors in the Hamilton area for which I am running.
Our conversations have ranged from our best hopes to our worst fears and everything in between. If I had to make a general observation of what I’ve heard, it would be that people feel their voice has been lost somewhere between their vote and the people for whom they have cast it and that the consent of the governed has, in some measure, become the consent of the deepest pockets and the most ruthless special interest. You are not wrong and having conceded the point the question is, what can be done?
by Wayne Rusk Candidate for HD86
It has become self-evident that we are in desperate need of some sort of campaign fnance reform, but legislation is a two-edged sword that must rightly divide
between safeguarding campaigns and silencing input. That will take time, as our system of government moves slow—and that by design. But there is something we can do today. I went to Helena in 2023 with the frm conviction that the sacred right of self government belongs to the people—not to the parties— and took the tough votes to prove it. I stand by them as proof of my commitment to the rule of law, the separation of powers, and to the American people who rely on them for their life, their liberties, and the pursuit of happiness. The price of this common ground was, on occasion, to lay aside partisanship—not principles. It was a price I was willing to pay. In fact, as your Representative, I understood it to be my “bounden duty” rather than any merit on my part. If you vote to send me back to Helena you will again have a voice there that will put you frst by standing frm against those who are animated by party malice rather than the public good.
Roth also commented on the attitudes of people moving to the area, which was a perceived fear by some. For Roth, it comes down to what the average person can do on a small scale. Public education is a big piece that everyone can use by communicating local values in a neighborly way to people moving into the area.
Finally, the local panel was asked about the biggest issues they will face in the coming term.
Holton immediately responded that it was dealing with the “mental health crisis.” However, the department, county and local agencies have plans to address that problem.
Burlingham agreed with Colton and said the issue has been ongoing. They see a lot more of those cases than ever before. He also said one of the challenges comes from elected ofcials in Helena. He commented, speaking to the legislature, “Stop taking tools out of my belt.” He feels limited by what he can do to address those cases.
For Kowal, the top issue is going to be affordability. “Things are becoming more expensive everywhere we look in Ravalli County.” said Kowal.
For the state candidates, water rights was the topic of several questions. One concern voiced in the questions regarding a ban on exempt wells, both for the economy and growth.
Greg Overstreet, the Republican candidate for House District (HD) 88, said it could be devastating on the economy to see a ban on exempt wells. There are many businesses involved, even ones most people do not think about, that would be afected by such a policy. For him, the water may be less of a problem than some people think.
However, the Democrat candidate for HD88, Evan Schroedel, is concerned about the water. He said the county needs to do hydrostatic mapping.
For him, the priority is to take care of the people who live here frst and have water now. He is less concerned about people wanting to move here.
A later question regarded standardized testing to verify where the water is located.
Kathy Love, a Republican candidate for Senate District (SD) 43, spoke about the need for such testing. She said a decision cannot be made “basin-wide,” as every part of the valley is diferent. Ofcials need to look at where the water and the aquifers are, then make decisions from there. That requires tests.
David Bedey, the other Republican candidate for SD43, said the tests will require money. SD43 Democrat candidate Stephan Leuchtman allowed Bedey’s response saying he would love to sponsor a bill to do this.
Another question posed to the panel was what they would cut from the state budget if they had the power to do so.
Kim Dailey, a Republican candidate for HD85, said there were billions of dollars of surplus from the last tax collection, and that should be returned frst.
Republican Kenneth Allen, a candidate for HD86, answered saying that he would create a committee to investigate any money coming in from out of state.
Wayne Rusk, another Republican running for HD86 said, “When you get right down to it, and ask to cut services people rely on, people go silent.” For him, it would be a tricky proposition to cut anything because someone relies on all these programs in some way.
Archie Thomas, the Democrat candidate running for HD86, believes they should frst stop wasting money investigating election fraud. Overstreet immediately said he would cut the Department of Health and Human Services, saying if people knew what they wasted money on, they would be appalled. Overstreets’s Democrat opponent, Schroedel, agreed with him. However, he does not know other areas to cut as he has not yet been elected yet. He plans to support those eforts if he gets into ofce.
Bedey said the state government is run pretty efciently, but there “are always bad actors.” Leuchtman, Democrat candidate for SD43, said the attorney general’s ofce would be a good place to start. Love also agreed with Overstreet. She added that the state gave an $18 million tax credit to the flm industry. “Was that necessary?” she asked. For her, it is less about where to cut and more about addressing irresponsibility in spending habits.
Republican Michele Binkley, candidate for HD85, running against Dailey, said, for her, it would come down to all the numerous “pet bills” people bring through that take funding and are unnecessary.
The discussion eventually got to data centers, and all agreed they do not need to be in Montana. Love said they are water-greedy, and water is already a problem in this valley. Bedey noted they would need to pay their way, and there is no need for state assistance to bring them here. Leuchtman outright said, “They have no business being in Montana.”
Another unanimous sentiment regarded the Sheep Creek Mine. Thomas believes there is no place to send the minerals in the U.S. to refne them on the required scale while still following environmental requirements. Otherwise, they will need to be sent to China, which he added nobody wants.
One of the last questions candidates were asked was if they would support Medicaid expansion, which Schroedel was in full support. Bedey reminded people that Medicaid is only for the working poor and said he actually agrees with Schroedel, saying,“I’m not willing to make a political statement at the expense of working Montanans.” He added that he believes this program is a big part of supporting rural health care. Binkley agreed and said she also supports rural hospitals.
However, for Love, “Nobody is addressing why is healthcare unafordable.” She thinks these programs are “throwing money at the problem.”
at 6 PM.
The Town of Darby reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
BS 5-6, 5-13, 5-20-2026.
MNAXLP
John D. Greef attorney at law P.O. Box 1926 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 360-8117
Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Cliford Merrill Gilstad, Deceased. Case No.: DP-2026-0000031
Department No. 1
NOTICE TO CREDITORS
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Brandy Wagner and Roxanne Wagner have been appointed Co-Personal Representatives of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Brandy Wagner and Roxanne Wagner, the Co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, in c/o John D. Greef, P.O. Box 1926, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.
DATED this 29th day of April, 2026.
/s/John D. Greef
John D. Greef, Attorney for Personal Representative
BS 5-6, 5-13, 5-20, 5-27-2026. MNAXLP
NOTICE The 2nd half of the 2025 Real Estate Taxes are due payable before 5 PM, May 31, 2026. We have a Night Drop located at North end of Administration Building in drive thru. Mailed payments, must be postmarked by May 31, 2026
or the payment will be returned for penalty and interest. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express cards are accepted. Also accepting online payments at www.Ravalli. us/196/Property-Tax. Paying with Credit/Debit card will include a 2.15% convenience fee and $1.25 Transaction Fee.
Ravalli County Treasurer
Dan Whitesitt
215 S 4th St Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600
BS 5-6, 5-13, 5-20, 5-27-2026. MNAXLP
NOTICE The frst half of the 2026 Mobile Home Taxes are due payable before 5 pm June 15, 2026. We have a Night Drop located at North end of Administration Building in drive thru. Mailed payments must be postmarked by June 15, 2026 or the payment will be returned for penalty and interest. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express cards are accepted. Also accepting online payments at www.Ravalli.us/196/ Property-Tax. Paying with Credit/ Debit card will include a 2.15% convenience fee and $1.25 Transaction Fee.
Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt 215 S 4th St Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600
BS 5-6, 5-13, 5-20, 5-27, 6-3, 6-10-2026.
MNAXLP
John D. Greef
P.O. Box 1926 Hamilton, MT 59840 406-360-8117
Attorney for Petitioner MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: Heidi Debra Kaminski, Petitioner.
Cause No.: DV-26-194 Dept No. 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN a hearing upon the Petition for Name Change will be held on Thursday, the 16th day of June, 2026, at the hour of 1:30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard in the courtroom of the above court at which time all interested persons
may appear and object. Dated this 5th day of May, 2026.
/s/John D. Greef, attorney for Petitioner BS 5-13, 5-20, 5-27, 6-3-2026.
MNAXLP
REQUEST/CALL FOR BIDS
LEASE OF RAVALLI COUNTY COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL PROPERTY AT 192 KURTZ LANE, HAMILTON, MT
The Board of County Commissioners are calling for bids to lease County Commercial/Industrial property located at 192 Kurtz Lane in Hamilton, MT 59840. The property contains ofce space (448 SF); a small addition ofce space (304 SF) and a garage (52’X36’ = 1,872 SF; approximately 2,624 SF total).
Bids are due by Friday, May 29, 2026 at 4:00 PM at the Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder’s Ofce located at 215 S. 4th Street Suite C, Hamilton, Montana 59840.
On Wednesday, June 03, 2026, at 10:00 AM, the Ravalli County Commissioners will open the bids received and may possibly award the bid, at that time. Upon award of the successful bidder, the lessee will enter into a contract with Ravalli County (lessor).
For a full Request for Bid, which will include Bidding and Award Process, or to request a site visit, please contact the Commissioner’s Ofce at 406-375-6500, email commissioners@rc.mt.gov or visit 215 S. 4th Street, Suite A, Hamilton (3rd foor). Chris Taggart Commissioners’ Administrative Assistant BS 5-13, 5-20-2026.
MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JU-
DICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI
COUNTY
IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: Medusa the Gypsy Callihan: Medusa the Gypsy Callihan, Petitioner.
Cause No.: DV-26-196 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 Medusa the Gypsy Callihan to Susan Ann Callihan. The hearing will be on June 18, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated May 6, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/ Catherine Di Gleria, Deputy
Clerk of Court
BS 5-13, 5-20, 5-27, 6-3-2026. MNAXLP
Legal Notice Candylands Minor Subdivision (5 Lot Minor Subdivision), Amended Plat of Tract A1 of AP 766703, SD#2024-04, Tax ID: 136010. Ravalli County has received an application for a 5-lot minor subdivision, located on AP of Tract A1 of AP 766703, existing Tax ID: 136010. Five Lots on 33.51 acres. Direct access to this property is from US Highway 93 (MDT Maintained) and Orchard Drive (County Maintained). Three Residential lots and two commercial lots are proposed. The subdivision will add approximately one new child to the Corvallis School District and 171 new vehicular trips per day to the road system. Hamilton is approximately one mile south, being the nearest municipal boundary. The subdivision property is located within the Corvallis School and Rural Fire District. The proposed lots will be served by private wells and septic systems. The applicant is Professional Management Proman LLC, represented by Paul Jessop of Base Line Surveying. The subdivision is referred to as Amended Plat of Tract A1 of AP 766703, Can-
dylands Subdivision. A complete copy of the application packet is available for viewing at the Ravalli County Planning Department ofce, in the County Administrative Center, 215 S. 4th St., Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. A copy of the Preliminary Plat is posted on our Website at https:// ravalli.us/178/Subdivisions-Exemptions. Written comments are encouraged to be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the hearing, and will be forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC). The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a Public Hearing to review the proposal Tuesday, June 4, 2026 at 01:30 p.m., in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room (Third Floor) at the Administrative Center. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, at the meeting. Comments and information submitted at the public meeting/ hearing will be considered in the decision on the subdivision. However, please note that only under select circumstances will new information be allowed into the record after the public hearing. BS 5-13, 5-20-2026. MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JU-
DICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE NAME CHANGE OF: William Aaron Alt: William Aaron Alt, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-26-199 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 William Aaron Alt to William Aaron Davis. The hearing will be on June 17, 2026 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated May 7, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/ Catherine Di Gleria, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 5-13, 5-20, 5-27, 6-3-2026. MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROBERT DANIEL WEER, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-2026-60 Dept. No.: 2
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that
Afer verifying your selectons, the ExpressVote will mark and print out your ballot card
Confrm your choices on the printed and marked ballot card
Return the marked ballot card to the electon ofcial
You can request help anytme during the process
ABSENTEE BALLOTS
Absentee ballots are available at the Ravalli County Votng Center, located at 215 South 4th Street (1st foor), Hamilton untl 12 PM (noon) on June 1, 2026.
PREPARATION, RECONCILIATION AND COUNTING OF BALLOTS
Early preparaton and reconciliaton of absentee ballots will be held on May 28 a nd 29, 2026 at approximately 10 AM, in the basement of the Ravalli County Co urthouse, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton Contnuaton of early preparaton and reconciliaton of absentee ballots, as well as the early countng of absentee ballots will be conducted on June 1, 2026, at approximately 10 AM in the basement of the Ravalli County Courthouse, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton. Public is welcome to observe Beginning at approximately 11 AM on Electon Day, June 2, 2026, absentee ballots will be opened reconciled and counted by a countng center board in the basement of the Ravalli County Courthouse 205 Bedford Street,
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Florence golfers soar at divisionals
The Florence and Darby golf teams competed at the Western B Divisionals in Anaconda at the Old Works Golf Course on Tuesday, May 12.
Florence results
The Florence boys team of RJ Moody, Brody Duchien, Ian McLean, and Preston Ekstedt, won the Western B Divisional championship. Florence and Loyola tied at +27 over par, and Florence claimed the championship after winning a one-hole playof.
Florence’s Kipley Solari shot an impressive two over par 74 to take home the girls individual Western B Divisional championship. Solari won by eight strokes over the second place fnisher. The Florence girls team of Solari, Lacie Ketelhut, Jordan Kidd, and Reese Briney, took 2nd.
Individually for the Florence boys, Brody Duchien and RJ Moody tied for 2nd (77). Ian McLean tied for 5th (80), Preston Ekstedt tied for 7th (81), and Easton Anderson tied for 30th (94).
Individually for the Florence girls, Kipley Solari took 1st (74). Lacie Ketelhut fnished 4th (93). Jordan
Kidd fnished 14th (101), Reese Briney tied for 15th (102), and Lexi Danczyk tied for 20th (108).
Darby results
The Darby girls took 9th. Individually, Bentley Rouse tied for 20th (108) and qualifed individually for state. Kota Fisher fnished 35th (124). Charley McDowell fnished 46th (146), and Nikki Neville fnished 48th (153). The Darby boys took 11th. Individually, Jordan Browning tied for 28th (93). Daniel Stewart fnished 44th (99), Levi Whiting tied for 50th (112), and Jaden Bailey fnished 55th (122).
The state tournament was held on Tuesday, May 19, and Wednesday, May 20, at the Lake Hills Golf Course in Billings.
Activities.
Darby, Florence, Victor shine at district track meet
The track and feld teams from Darby, Florence, and Victor competed in the District 6B and District 13C track meets in Missoula on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16.
There were many standout performances from Bitterroot Valley athletes. Florence’s Madigan Hurlbert won the 100m, the 100m hurdles, and the javelin. Hurlbert’s time of 14.74 in the 100m hurdles is the fastest time for any girl in Montana this season.
Also for Florence in 6B, Logan Williams won the boys 100m and 200m. Sebastian Schroeder won the boys 800m and 3200m; Jack Archibald won the javelin; and Brinley Skaggs won the 200m.
For Victor in 13C, Kordel Martin won the boys long jump and triple jump. Payton DePaul won the girls 100m and 300m hurdles.
For Darby in 6B, Gavin Miller won the 400m. Ben Martin won the 1600m; McCoy Townsend won the long jump; and Lily Adair won the 3200m. The Darby 4x400m boys relay team (McCoy Townsend, Ben Martin, Gavin Anderson, and Gavin Miller) continues to shine - they have the fastest Class B time this season.
In the team standing, the Darby boys took 2nd, and the Darby girls took 4th. The Florence boys and girls teams both took 3rd. The Victor boys and girls teams both took 6th. In Class B, the top six fnishers advance to divisionals, and in Class C, the top fve individuals advance to divisionals. The Western B/C Divisionals will be held in Missoula at the MCPS Stadium on Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23. The following are the full list of Bitterroot athletes who qualifed for Divisionals.
Florence Boys: Logan Williams took 1st in the 100m (11.13) and 1st in the 200m (21.84). Sebastian Schroeder took 1st in the 800m (2:02.45) and 1st in the 3200m (10:24.92). Jack Archibald took 1st in the javelin (147-07), 4th in the shot put (40-08.50), and 5th in the discus (126-01). Isaac Nicoson took 2nd in the 400m (51.09), 5th in the 200m (22.89), and 6th in the 100m (11.71). Sam Falagan took 2nd in the
long jump (20-00.00). Caden Miller took 3rd in the 1600m (4:59.47) and 6th in the 800m (2:11.38). Jonathan Williams took 3rd in the discus (133-10) and 5th in the shot put (4003.50). Landon Sirevaag took 5th in the 800m (2:11.04) and 5th in the 1600m (5:00.19). Jeremy Gaub took 5th in the 3200m (11:18.89). Mattix Chase took 5th in the 300m hurdles (46.99). The 4x100m relay team (Mattix Chase, Sam Falagan, Isaac Nicoson, Logan Williams) took 1st (44.47), and the 4x400m relay team (Sam Falagan, Sebastian Schroeder, Logan Williams, Isaac Nicoson)
took 3rd (3:37.84). Florence Girls: Madigan Hurlbert took 1st in the 100m (12.72), 1st in the 100m hurdles (14.74), and 1st in the javelin (9305). Brinley Skaggs took 1st in the 200m (26.24), 2nd in the high jump (4-10.00), and 4th in the 100m (13.22). Bailey Kroeker took 2nd in the 400m (1:00.49), 5th in the long jump (14-03.50), and 6th in the 100m (13.61). Taryn Appelhans took 2nd in the shot put (31-11.00) and 3rd in the discus (103-00). Sophia Stiegler took 3rd in the high jump (4-08.00), 3rd in the long jump (1407.50), and 6th in the triple jump (30-08.00). Karolina Palivcova took 5th in the high jump (4-06.00) and 5th in the triple jump (31-03.00). Shiloh Williams took 6th in the discus (76-05) and 6th in the javelin (70-00). Averie Bates took 5th in the 3200m (14:05.62). Lola Bates took 6th in the 3200m (14:10.79). Raleigh Schmidt took 6th in the 300m hurdles (58.15). The 4x400m relay team (Taryn Appelhans, Madigan Hurlbert, Bailey Kroeker, Brinley Skaggs) took 1st (4:16.06). Darby Boys: Gavin Miller took 1st in the 400m (50.31). Ben Martin took 1st in the 1600m (4:41.77), 2nd in the 800m (2:04.44), and 2nd in the 3200m (10:33.51). McCoy Townsend took 1st in the long jump (20-11.00), 2nd in the 200m (22.61), 3rd in the 400m (51.31), and 4th in the 100m (11.62). Leif Nelson took 1st in the discus (14411). Gavin Anderson took 2nd in the 110m hurdles (16.61) and 2nd in the 300m hurdles (41.12). Jordan Browning took 3rd in the triple jump (37-11.50) and 4th in the high jump (5-10.00). Jack Bennett took 4th in the 110m hurdles (22.37) and 4th in the triple jump (37-03.50). Taylor Graham took 6th in the 3200m (11:28.44). The 4x400m relay team
(McCoy Townsend, Ben Martin, Gavin Anderson, Gavin Miller) took 1st (3:27.51), and the 4x100m relay team (Justin Chandler, Gavin Anderson, Eli Jones, Gavin Miller) took 4th (45.97). Darby Girls: Lily Adair took 1st in the 3200m (12:58.28), 2nd in the 800m (2:29.04), and 3rd in the 1600m (5:51.52). Brooklyn Rogers took 2nd in the 1600m (5:50.31), 3rd in the 800m (2:35.75), and 3rd in the 3200m (13:11.13). Hadley Heiland took 2nd in the discus (113-02) and 4th in the javelin (8004). Natalie Anderson took 2nd in the javelin (91-06), 5th in the 200m (28.11), and 6th in the 400m (1:04.01). Kiahna Hirmann took 3rd in the 100m hurdles (17.19) and 4th in the 300m hurdles (53.68). Ella Bush took 5th in the 100m hurdles (18.51) and 5th in the 300m hurdles (54.71). Efe Knapp took 5th in the 300m hurdles (54.71). The 4x100m relay team (Kiahna Hirmann, Ella Bush, Efe Knapp, Hadley Heiland) took 2nd (56.73), and the 4x400m relay team (Brooklyn Rogers, Kiahna Hirmann, Lily Adair, Natalie Anderson) took 2nd (4:20.63). Victor Boys: Kordel Martin took 1st in the long jump (19-02.25) and 1st in the triple jump (3903.50). Rowen Avery took 4th in the 100m (12.20) and 4th in the 200m (25.13). Hayes Likes took 1st in the high jump (5-06.00). Anthony Standaert took 4th in the 1600m (5:35.88). The 4x100m relay team took 4th (48.43), and the 4x400m relay team took 4th (4:02.10).
Victor Girls: Payton DePaul took 1st in the 100m hurdles (18.06), 1st in the 300m hurdles (53.05), and 2nd in the long jump (14-02.00). Nola Johnston took 4th in the 3200m (14:35.12) and 5th in the 1600m (6:40.11). The 4x400m relay team took 4th (5:08.13).
Western A Divisional track preview
The Corvallis, Hamilton, and Stevensville track and feld teams start their postseason at the Western A Divisionals in Frenchtown on Friday, May 22, and Saturday, May 23. The three schools have an abundance of track talent and many Bitterroot athletes will come home with divisional titles. The following are some of the athletes to keep an eye on this weekend in Frenchtown.
Hamilton’s Aubrey Korst will be one of the favorites in the girls’ pole vault at the Western A Divisional track meet on May 22 and 23 in Frenchtown. The track teams from Corvallis, Hamilton, and Stevensville will all be competing at the divisional meet.
For Corvallis, Ella Varner has the longest girls triple jump mark in Montana this year, and she will be a top contender in the long jump, 100m, and 200m. Ayden Spencer has top marks in the 100m, 200m, 400m, and discus. Jillian Huls is near the top in the 100m, 200m, and the long jump.
For Hamilton, Anna Lewis has top marks in the 400m, 800m, and 1500m. Taylor Doleac is near the top in the 800m, 1500m, and both hurdles events. Aubrey Korst is one of the top girl’s pole vaulters, and Gracie Werst is one of the top girl’s shot putters.
For Stevensville, Reagan Johnstone is a threat to place in the following six events, the 100m, 200m, 100m hurdles, 300m hurdles, long jump, and triple jump. Sophia Hutchison is near the top in the triple jump and the long jump.
The Florence boys golf team won the Western B Divisional Championship in Anaconda at the Old Works Golf Course on Tuesday, May 12. Photo courtesy of Florence Carlton School
Florence’s Logan Williams won both the 100m and 200m at the District 6B track meet in Missoula on Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Photo by Scott Sacry.
MASON: legion member lives through injuries, service, dedication
mission when he had to deploy airborne. He few nonstop from Ft. Lewis Washington to the Czech border (West Germany). They dropped in after a nearly 20-hour fight.
Mason was in two severe accidents over his career. The frst accident was while he was stationed in Korea. He was in a bad Humvee crash, and Mason said they had to rebuild his face.
Then, near the end of his career, he fell over 45 feet during rope training.
He is lucky to be alive, noting that the chances of surviving that distance of a fall is about 10 percent.
He went through a lot of surgeries after the fall and a long process to get out of the wheelchair, of crutches and to walk again. That took about two years. He was medically retired in 2000 and was transferred to the Helena VA. There were still more surgeries and operations after that, and Mason said, “I kept the operating room busy.”
Now he lives in Corvallis and said, “I live on the same lane I kinda grew up on.” He has a son from a previous marriage he is proud of and two step sons he also considers his sons by blood.
He still tries to be an active person and became active with the American Legion in Corvallis, Post #91. He is active with amateur radio, and has done some more traveling. He and his wife raised horses and showed dogs. However, much of his time has been in the legion.
According to Mason, the Corvallis legion is one of the most active in the state, with over 200 members.
“I’m really proud of the things we have done.” He was with the legion with the start of the county youth military program, and he is extremely proud of their honor guard program. He added that it is one of the most important things they do for veterans who die.
Another big part of the legion is to give veterans things to do, for themselves, and for their community. Mason said that can be a huge challenge for veterans who return home, along with a loss of a sense of purpose that often comes with being home.
Mason helped start the radio club and has been active with the creation of a motorcycle riders club and numerous community events. He is excited to see everybody at the parade.
106th Corvallis Memorial Day Parade
The Corvallis American Legion Post #91 proudly announces the 106th Annual Memorial Day Parade, set for Monday, May 25, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. This year’s parade will celebrate the United States Semiquincentennial, with the theme “When in the course of human events,” Celebrate the USA’s 250th Anniversary.
Grand Marshal is Doug Mason, a United States Army veteran. Doug has been a member of the American Legion for 31 years. Doug and his wife Rita will lead the parade south down main street, then west on Woodside Cutof Road and then north on Water Street.
The parade will feature reoccurring foats, including the Grand Marshal’s Jeep, a jeep platoon with other parade VIPs, the Stevensville Post #94 Veteran’s Float, Legion Riders and more. The Community Band will perform the National Anthem following the cannon fre at 10:00 a.m. to signal the start of the parade. A memorial ceremony at Corvallis Cemetery will follow at 12:00 p.m., featuring the Gettysburg Address, the name readings of every veteran buried there, a rife salute and a bugler playing taps.
All clubs, organizations, private and commercial vehicles must register and obtain a parade number to participate. There is no fee to participate in the pa-
rade. Law Enforcement, frst responders, U.S. Government, Forest Service and Active U.S. Military vehicles are exempt and need not register. Registration is available online through American Legion Post #91’s website (corvallispost91.blogspot.com) or Facebook page. The QR code links to the parade’s online registration page (website/Facebook). Day-of registration will also be available at the corner of Market Street and Second Street, starting at 7:00 a.m. and ending at 8:30 a.m. Judging begins at 9:00 a.m.
American Legion Post #91 invites valley residents, all veterans, community groups and local businesses to join us in celebrating the USA’s 250th Anniversary. Spectators are encouraged to line Main Street prior to the closing of the street at 9:00 a.m., to enjoy the parade and pay tribute to those who served.
Parade participants are asked not to throw candy. For those that plan on giving out candy, it is asked that you please hand it out to the crowd. For additional information, contact Doug Mason at 406-546-4244 or visit our website/Facebook page via the QR code.
The Corvallis American Legion Post #91 is proud to organize the Memorial Day Parade, bringing the community
together to honor veterans who have passed and their families.
American Legion Post #94, starting on Friday, May 22 at 6 p.m., will be marking veteran’s graves with American fags at Riverside Cemetery. Once fnished there, they will do the same for Maplewood Cemetery and Sunnyside Cemetery.
On Memorial Day they will participate in the Memorial Day Parade with their Veteran’s foat. For those interested in riding in the foat, they will need to show up at the north end of Corvallis’s Main Street by 9:30 a.m.
Later, starting at 6 p.m. at Riverside Cemetery, their Post Honor Guard will be conducting recognition ceremonies at all local cemeteries. They will start with a short talk on the signifcance of Memorial Day, followed by the fring of vollies and taps.
Doug Mason prepares for an arctic jump. Photo courtesy Doug Mason.
OPEN RANGE: local man rehomes wild equines
had bridled and saddled in tow. “And then also, why I like to use my own horses, which this horse, [Sunny], was a wild horse, is that I like to use them all the time as ambassadors to show their trainability, that there is value in these horses and that if you put time into them, they can be really good, positive members of society. The other component of it that I really believe strongly in is I try to bring my experience of working with these animals for 15-plus years in the program and try to educate people so that they are successful with their new horse.”
Viewing the mustangs available for adoption, some timidly huddled together while others perked up their ears in clear curiosity. Even more grazed on hay without consideration for the humans observing them. Many wild horses and burros come from Nevada, Oregon, Wyoming and Arizona, each being a physical refection of their historic roles in human industry in those areas. Sunny, Bischof’s horse, is from Oregon, where the animals were once used in mining and logging operations.
Sunny is now indistinguishable from a domesticated horse. Her “gentling process” started in September of last year, and already she is approachable and rideable. When the Wichs family arrived to collect their new colt at the May 9 event, Bischof used Sunny to
“sort” the young mustang out from the rest of the group in its enclosure. The horse recently acquired by the Wichs is the fourth animal they have adopted through the BLM program. The family members pointed out some of their distinguishing positive characteristics. Firstly, the burros the family adopted for packing aren’t scared of things like crossing creeks, they said. The animals don’t have to be trained to overcome those obstacles; they are sure-footed and not easily scared by things that can often frighten domestic packing animals. Wild horses and burros are also known for their genetically superior hoof health. Bischof added that burros also make great livestock guardians and that they have even been known to chase of coyotes and other large predatory animals.
Q Dehart, an Online Corral Specialist for the BLM Wild Horse and Burro Program, was also in attendance at the event to process adoption paperwork. She encouraged people interested in adopting an animal to go to the Online Corral website at wildhorsesonline.blm.gov and fll out an application. Once the document is approved, applicants can adopt wild horses and burros at events held by the BLM, its partners and holding facilities across the country.
The BLM requires that people meet certain criteria before taking in a wild horse or burro. There is a specifc fence height requirement, and fences cannot be made of barbed wire or be electric, as wild animals have never been in contact with such materials. It is Dehart’s and Bischof’s hope that every horse and burro taken in through the BLM program has a chance to be adopted. Those that are not adopted retire on immense “of-range” pastures for the rest of their lives.
The horses currently available at the Hamilton Training Facility are $125 to adopt. Apart from his work with the BLM, Bischof hosts horse-training workshops and provides lessons. He also takes horses in for 30 to 90 days to train in various categories. For adoption or training inquiries, Bischof can be reached by phone at 406-880-2364.
Wild mustangs wait patiently to be adopted at the Hamilton Training
horses
be viewed by appointment. Photo by Sarah Glass.
Bitterroot Front Project, fuel reduction implementation decided
The Bitterroot National Forest has issued a fnal decision for the Bitterroot Front Project to implement vegetation and fuel reduction activities and address wildfre risk to communities.
The project is designed to address the clear urgency for action by reducing the current density of trees and high fuels loadings and thereby reducing the risk for high intensity, stand-replacing wildfres and resulting impacts to habitat, property, infrastructure, and public and frefghter safety.
The project is located on the Stevensville and Darby-Sula Ranger Districts. The planning area extends the length of the main Bitterroot Valley along the front of the mountains from McClain Creek on the northern end of the forest to Trapper Creek on the southern end. The landscape-scale project includes a wide range of tools including tree thinning, harvest, and prescribed burning to reduce current and future wildfre risks.
The forest contains fve of the highest risk fresheds in the nation, four of which are in the Bitterroot Front Project area. The Montana Forest Action plan has identifed the area as having high wildfre risk to communities and infrastructure and signifcant forest health concerns. There are more than 7,000 homes and structures at risk in the greater project area. Ravalli County currently has the highest risk to structures from wildfre of any county in Montana.
Increased tree mortality from insects and
disease is also a serious concern. The project area has dense pockets of dead and dying trees impacted by mountain pine beetle, Douglas-fr bark beetle, and western spruce budworm damage.
The Bitterroot Front Project does not include changes in public road access or any regeneration harvest (clearcutting).
The project was frst announced back in 2022, following a series of public meetings and feld trips. The project’s primary purpose has been refned since the initial scoping notice to focus on restoring a healthy and resilient forest ecosystem through prescribed fre and fuels treatments.
Project planning was completed with participation and input from local collaborative organizations and partners such as the Ravalli County Collaborative and the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes. The forest also received more than 400 public comments (most in favor of the project) during the scoping comment period.
For more information on the Bitterroot Front Project, interested persons can go online to the Forest Service’s website at www.fs.usda.gov/r01/bitterroot/newsroom/ stories/bitterroot-front-project-0 or follow updates on the Discover Bitterroot National Forest Facebook page. Darby/Sula District Ranger Steve Brown can be contacted at (406) 821-3913, or Stevensville District Ranger Seth Romocki can be contacted at (406) 777-5461.
Photos taken before and after non-commercial thinning on Piquett Creek Project on the Bitterroot National Forest’s West Fork Ranger District. USDA Forest Service photo.
Bitterroot Front Project Area map. USDA Forest Service.
Deloris J. Ensley Obituaries
Born DeLoris Joanne Shook on September 18,1931 to Jesse Ernest Shook and Dorothy Belle (Cumley) Chambers. She was the 3rd baby born in the old Marcus Daly Hospital not long after it was built.
One of her frst loves was music. Beginning at the age of 3 years old, she would perform on Friday and Saturday night dances where her Grandpa, Dolph Cooper, played fddle in the band. She was always proud that she won a radio talent show in Missoula at that young age.
DeLoris married Arthur F. Ensley Lt. Cmdr USN (Ret.) on October 29,1949. Our Dad was a 3 war Veteran which required our mom to spend a lot of time with just her children and family. (We the children are lucky to be here). Mom also said when Dad came home it was like a honeymoon and Christmas every time.
Military life provided her with many experiences and memories. Formal Dinner Balls, living in Hawaii, gifts from around the world and many friends. Once she became an Ofcer’s wife, that added to her many duties. Dad was the Captain of the USS Polk County and the Commander of the Patrol Boats in Vietnam, so she was responsible for informing other military wives of delays and other unfortunate issues. Which DeLoris said “wasn’t always fun”.
DeLoris and Art raised 4 children, Mark, Philip, Rebekah
Michael Patrick Rees
(Condon) and the baby Anna (Tripp). They also sponsored young people from other countries to come to the U.S. for schooling. Of which one still calls her Mom, Manuel Solis. When retirement came Art asked DeLoris where she wanted to live. Her response was simple...”take me home”! They relocated to Hamilton where they purchased their fnal home 400 yards from where DeLoris was born. She always said, “now I’ve come full circle in life”.
Early in their marriage they put their faith in Jesus Christ which changed the direction of their lives. They both served in every role in their churches. DeLoris enjoyed being the church musician, singing solos, choir and playing the organ or piano. She had to let go of being a pianist at the age of 89 due to health.
DeLoris went home to be with the Lord on February 23, 2026, at the age of 94. She was able to live in her home until then because of the service of her 2 daughters. Anna who gave regular care to both parents for 13 years and Becki who moved in with our Mom at New Years when DeLoris became ill.
A Memorial Service will be held at Big Sky Baptist Church on Saturday, May 30, 2026, at 11 a.m. with a lunch to follow. Condolences may be left for the family at www. dalyleachchapel.com.
Stevensville - Michael Patrick Rees, an iconic fgure in western Montana, left the earth on Saturday, April 18, 2026 at the age of 76, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s, a battle that in a way led to terminal medical complications. The last song he ever heard, fttingly, was “I’ll Fly Away”, by Allison Krause. Many people were with him during the last week of his illness, especially his wife Gretchen, but stubbornly he waited until he was alone to call it a day. Michael was someone with incredible talent and creativity, and deeply fawed. We loved him for all of that.
Rochelle Lee Smith
Rochelle Lee Smith, of Hamilton, Montana, passed away peacefully on May 5th, 2026 at 8:00 PM at the Hospice Care Center in Missoula. Her fnal moments were quiet and gentle, surrounded by love and comfort. Her passing leaves a deep ache in the hearts of her family, but also a legacy of strength, humor, and unwavering devotion.
Rochelle was born on June 27th, 1963 in Orange County, California, where she spent her early years surrounded by sunshine, family, and the beginnings of the warm, generous spirit she carried throughout her life. She had a natural gift for making people feel welcomed and understood. Her laughter came easily, her compassion ran deep, and her presence had a way of making others feel safe.
She dedicated her life to her children and grandchildren, pouring her heart into creating a home flled with love, resilience, and faith. Rochelle was the kind of mother who showed
Like so many of us, Michael and Gretchen’s relationship had a lot of ups and downs, but Gretchen stood by him until the end, helping him fght the daily struggles of advancing Alzheimer’s. We should all be so lucky to have such a steadfast partner.
If you ever saw a hot air balloon foating in the sky over Western Montana, you’ve probably seen Michael. Owner of Mountain Butterfy Hot Air Balloon Company, he few circles around other pilots for 40 years. His frst Mountain Butterfy was a Piccard envelope with a twin burner slightly more powerful than a cigarette lighter. When that envelope aged out, he briefy few a Cameron Balloon, Bad Gravity. Michael went on to fy balloons for many diferent companies in Napa and the Teton’s, before establishing his own ride business with large balloons here in western Montana. His last balloon was also another Mountain Butterfy, manufactured by Cameron Balloons. Michael specialized in epic fights such as mountain crossings, fying of the top of Lolo peak and fying from St Ignatius over the wall of the Missions.
Michael was a true Renaissance man being highly profcient at anything that piqued his interest. He was an incredible accomplished master woodworker specializing in Japanese joinery with no project too small, too large, or too complicated. His work ranged from desktop items to timber framed houses. He taught at the Primrose School of Woodworking in Missoula and left his artistry throughout Missoula, the Bitterroot Valley and Napa, California.
Michael had a deeply troubled childhood that shaped the rest of his life in many ways. He was born in Harrington, Illinois and raised by his paternal grandmother in Harvey, Illinois. At age 8 he was sent to Glenwood School for Boys, a residential military school, the oldest boys’ school in the country and founded by Abraham Lincoln’s son. At Glenwood Michael learned woodworking, made lifelong friends and broke all the rules. Paul Sanchuck, one of his instructors, supported Michael’s interest in art, giving him his frst set of oil paints.
After graduating Michael joined the Navy where he worked in electronics and nuclear propulsion submarines. After leaving the Navy, in a very Michael-like fashion, he bounced around welding for Ingersoll Rand, journeyman machinist for National
up—every time, without hesitation. She taught her family the importance of loyalty, courage, and kindness, not through speeches but through the way she lived. Her strength was quiet but powerful, and her love was the steady foundation her family leaned on.
Rochelle will be remembered for her gentle nature, her ferce devotion to family, and the countless ways she made the world softer for those around her. Her memory lives on in the stories she shared, the lessons she passed down, and the love she gave so freely.
A Memorial Service to honor Rochelle’s life will be held on May 24th, 2026 at 4:00 PM at The Jesus Community Church in Stevensville, Montana.
A potluck gathering will follow the service, and all are welcome to bring a dish and share in fellowship. A livestream link will be provided for those unable to attend in person.
Barley ● F ● 3 years
Barley is a stunning Rottweiler, but it's her boundless energy and affectionate spirit that truly set her apart. At three years old she's in the prime of her life, ready for long walks, spirited games of fetch, and endless cuddle sessions after a day of adventure. If you're searching for a beautiful, vibrant companion who will fill your home with love, laughter, and a dash of excitement, Barley is waiting to become the forever member of your family
Cash Register, microwave communications team leader for Andrew Corporation, quality control and fnal inspection for Cameron Balloons and manager for Virgin Lightships with Richard Branson.
Michael was always creating. When he wasn’t designing furniture or timber frame houses, he was drawing or painting or photographing everything. His photograph of the “Scarecrow in the Storm” and his drawing “To be Forgiven” (better known as “the Root”) has to be seen to be believed. He had so many interests it was hard for him to do all he dreamed of. Alzheimer’s took almost everything from Michael: fying, woodworking, drawing, reading, driving. Until he lapsed into a coma, he kept his sense of humor and stubbornness. Those were forge welded to his core, and nothing could take them. Although he was talented in so many mediums, he probably will be remembered best for being the pilot of Mountain Butterfy. At the end of each fight, he would recite the Balloonists Prayer:
May the winds welcome you with softness, May the sun bless you with its warmth, May you fy so high and well that God will join you in laughter And set you down, gently, in the loving arms of Mother Earth
Michael is survived by his wife of 33 years Gretchen Spiess, his childhood friends from Glenwood, Kurt Carlson, Richie Rothop and Rich Hanze, woodworking protege David Cofn and his adopted family Jim Taylor, Barb Morrison, Will Taylor and his God son, Matthew Taylor.
So, when you go outside, look up, notice the clouds and the way they move across the sky. If you look close, you just may see, peeking through the clouds, a hot air balloon, foating its way toward heaven.
As was said of Hamlet, we can say of Michael, “He was a man, take him for all in all, I shall not look upon his like again.”
A celebration of Michael’s life will be held on September 5th at 3637 Highway 93 Stevensville. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome. com.
Summary of Success
Competing for the 9th year in the Center for Civic Education’s
We the People Constitutional Competition, this small team from Stevensville won our first-ever Montana State Championship in Helena on January 14th The team is composed of Stevensville Senior Students Emma McKoy, Anton Miller, Cole Stuber, and Jacob Wallace The team is coached by Wes Wells and supported by assistant Heidi Cowan
Appreciation
Our special thanks to Rich Stuber, Glenda Kearney of Stevensville Public Schools, and Lee Huston of Stevensville Hardware who all greatly assisted in getting our fundraising efforts off the ground Tony Hudson, Kay and Skip Gibbons, Annette and Dave Hansen, Deborah Strickland, Vickie Motley, and Matthew Roth have all been invaluable in helping us communicate our needs to the Ravalli communities These people make Montana a great place under the Big Sky
Our ability to compete at the National Finals would not have been possible without the tremendous support of the Stevensville and greater Ravalli County communities. W e cannot express enough gratitude to the individual donors, organizations and businesses that helped us meet our travel and competition fundraising goals, but know that your help allowed us to meet our deadline in just three weeks! This represents an impressive commitment to the value of Civic Education in the Heart of the Bitterroot!
WAYNE RUSK
MICHELE BINKLEY
Local Growers Guide
1. Clean Green Mfg. and Landscaping
Phone: (406) 829-3700
5970 Hwy 93 S., Missoula, next to the Humane Society.
Clean Green Mfg. and Landscaping has been a go-to source for top-notch landscaping materials for over 15 years. We help both residential and commercial clients with all their landscaping, hard scaping, excavation, and landscaping supplies needs. We also do cement curbing.
Our convenient retail location provides a wide range of landscaping supplies, including washed rock, gravel, and boul ders. We keep in stock all the hot new colors and sizes of barks and mulches. Our dirt collection is the best around, from double screened topsoil to garden mix soils made here in the yard using only local materials.
We pride ourselves on our deep roots in the community. Our understanding of the local climate and lifestyle allows us to ofer eco-friendly manufacturing solutions that truly resonate with your needs. Enhance your outdoor space today. Contact us and let’s start your project! Call (406) 829-3700 or email us at clean green406@gmail.com.
2. Pink Grizzly Greenhouse
Phone: 406-728-3370
Lolo Location: 11454 Highway 93 South, Lolo. Next to Dairy Queen across from Lolo School. Open May 8 through July 5th each year.
Missoula Location since 1955: 1400 Wyoming Street, Missoula on the corner of Russell and Wyoming Street. Open March 1 through December 22 each year.
• Bedding Plants: Very large selection of annual and perennial fowers. Alyssum, petunias, pansies, marigolds, begonias. Colorful fower baskets and planters. Cus tom planting available
• Vegetable and herb starts: Organic and conventional. Tomato, pepper, broc coli, cabbage, kale, artichoke, rhubarb, basil, lavender, rosemary, thyme, cucum bers, squash, cantaloupe, melons, zucchi ni, and many more!
• Seed: organic and conventional. Many varieties of vegetables. Certifed organic seed potatoes
• Fruit trees, Shade trees, and Shrubs: Apple, cherry, plum, maple trees, aspen, honey locust, crabapple. Potentilla, bar berry
• Fertilizer and pest control products, organic and conventional
• Garden tools: shovels, rakes, trowels, deer fence, tree protectors
• Decorative pots, gifts
• Potting soil, peat moss, soil pep bag products
• List of DEER RESISTANT plants!!!
3. Brown’s Greenhouse Family owned & operated. Retail & Wholesale. 5629 Lower Woodchuck Road in Florence (8 Mile community, travel east from Highway 93 in Florence, cross the Bitterroot River, then follow signs north out of the roundabout).
Mon-Fri 9am - 7pm, Sat 9am-5pm. Closed Sundays
Mid April through June while supplies last, summer and fall hours vary
Multiple greenhouses full of annual bedding plants, vegetables, baskets, planters and more.
• Standard seed fowers including petunias, marigolds, pansies, alyssum, lobelia, etc.
• Vegetative fowers and accent plants. Everything you need for thrillers, fllers and spillers in your pots.
• Ofcial Proven Winner Grower!
• 12” and larger specialty combo hanging baskets for Mother’s Day and throughout the season.
• Veggies including dozens of varieties of tomatoes & peppers, cole crops, herbs, lettuce, spinach, swiss chard, cucumbers, squash, strawberries, pumpkins, watermelon, cantaloupe, etc.
• Perennial and tree selection brought in specifcally for our area.
• Fall mums and seasonal accompanying products available late summer.
• Look for our plants at local garden centers in the Bitterroot and Missoula. www.brownsgreeenhousemt.com Find us on Facebook and Instagram
All items available while supplies last.
4. Wayne Herman Trees
Call Wayne for more information 5319009. Just south of the stoplight in Florence. Open May - July 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. everyday. Come check out our FRESH selection of Maple Trees. We also carry most deciduous trees.
5. Cottage Garden Greenhouse
777-3061 • 5034 Eastside Hwy. Stevensville, halfway between Stevensville and Florence. Open Mon. to Sat. 9am to 6pm, Sun. 11am-5pm With over 30 years of growing in the Bitterroot Valley, CGG provides the best plants and customer service for long-time locals and new-comers alike. Stock up on everything you need for your berry, herb
ing also available! Nursery: We specialize in Rocky Mountain natives and hardy plant material including instant shade trees, large evergreens, fruit trees, blooming shrubs, colorful groundcovers and wildfowers. Plant sizes range from a 1-gallon container up to a 30-ft. B&B tree. Located on 40 acres in Stevensville. Major credit cards accepted. For examples of landscape projects and our plant catalog visit: www.naturesenhancementinc.com
Choose from a variety of maples, aspen, birch, crabapple, willow, fruit trees and more. Our amazing evergreen section is full of varieties of spruce, fr and pine ranging from 4ft. tall to monstrous 20ft. Blue Spruce. Landscape boulders make great accents for any outdoor space. Now with our full line of shrubs, perennials and grasses Vern’s carries everything you need to design your perfect landscape. With over 40 years of experience in the Bitterroot Valley our staf is known for their top-notch customer service so come on in and have a new kind of nursery experience.
14. Evans Ace Hardware 363-3351 • 714 N. First (on Hwy 93) Hamilton
9. Shady Rest Green(406) 802-4637 - 1911 Eastside Hwy, Corvallis Open Monday-Saturday 9am-6pm, Sunday Open since 1958, Shady Rest Greenhouse has been helping grow successful gardens in the valley for over 60 years. Carrying a large variety of annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs, baskets, shrubs, soil and ground cover and more.
Open 8 a.m. - 7 p.m. Mon - Sat and 8 a.m - 5 p.m. on Sunday Evans Ace Hardware is your neighborhood gardening headquarters and Premier level STIHL dealership. Our certifed garden team is eager to answer your lawn and gardening questions. Our greenhouse has a full selection of local annuals, perennials, herbs, as well as Montana grown vegetables from Brown’s Greenhouse in Florence. Glacier Nursery will be supplying an assortment of trees and shrubs. Convenient bags of soils and amendments are piled high.
shrubs blooming in every shade imaginable. Visit our website cottagegardengreenhouse.com or follow us on facebook at cottagegardengreenhouse or instagram at cottagegardengreenhouse406 for weekly specials and local gardening advice.
• Large selection of Montana hardy berry plants
• Locally grown annuals
• Tomatoes - 28 varieties of cherries, heirlooms & hybrids
• Vegetable starts
• Hanging baskets for sun or shade
• Perennials that will fourish in your landscape
• Select blooming and shade trees
Call or stop by with your ideas and questions today!
Now accepting VISA/MC.
6. Super 1 Foods - Stevensville 777-7300 • 39 Stevensville Cutof Rd • Stevensville 363-6200 • 1131 N. 1st Street • Hamilton Open 7 days a week.
Great selection of quality plants, good prices, and great selections of annuals, vegetables, and new plants weekly from asters to zinnias. Garden supplies and art.
7. Stevensville Country Store 406-777-5527 • 3673 Eastside HwyJust south of Stevensville on Eastside Hwy. Open Monday - Saturday 8am-7pm, Sunday 10am-5pm - countrystore.net
From feed to seed to fencing and hardware, your local Country Store in Stevensville is here for all your Spring needs! We work hard to stock our shelves with the highest quality products from well-respected brands. We have seeds from Burpee, Botanical Interest, BSG Bailey, Rainier Seeds. We also have bedding plants, gardening supplies, and much, much more. And don’t forget about our wide selection of Pet and Livestock Feed supplies. Our friendly and knowledgeable staf is here to deliver a positive customer experiencewe have the expertise to help you with all your challenging Spring projects. We look forward to serving you!
8. Nature’s Enhancement, Inc. (406) 777-3560 • 2980 Eastside Hwy. (corner of Bell Crossing & Eastside Hwy.) Public Welcome - Open M-F 8 am - 3:30 pm - Some Saturdays.
Direct grower prices. Open to the Public. Nursery and full-service landscape company. Landscape Services: Complete landscape services including lawn installation, sprinkler systems, custom rock walls, and planting services. We also build patios, decks, fre pits, retaining walls, pathways and water features. Tree services and mov-
10. Moeller’s Nursery 406-961-3389 • Since 1971 • ¾ miles South of Corvallis on Eastside Hwy. Check out MoellersnursSpring Hours 9-6 daily. Bedding plants – Large selection of annual & perennial bedding plants: pansies, petunias, lobelia, asters, impatiens, dahlias, geraniums, moss roses, marigolds, alyssum, begonias, osteospernum, and more. Large selection of hanging baskets featuring begonias, fuchsias, super petunias & mixed baskets. Perennials - 140 varieties including bleeding hearts, peonies, columbine, daisies, delphinium, lupine, sedum, and ornamental grasses. Vegetable bedding plants – Large variety that produce well in the Bitterroot: 50 varieties of tomatoes. 37 varieties of peppers, cukes, melons, squash, broccoli and herbs. MT certifed seed potatoes, strawberry plants, asparagus roots. Nursery stock – Shade trees, fruit trees, fowering trees and shrubs. Lilac bushes. Potentillas. Rhubarb plants, gooseberry, raspberry, grape, currant, and honeyberry. Save now on bare root trees and shrubs. Potting soil, peat moss, and seeds. Produce – A complete line available in season. Specializing in super sweet sweet corn, caulifower, broccoli, cabbage, potatoes, cucumbers, squash and pumpkins.
11. Beautiful Baskets & More
246 Christoferson Lane, Corvallis 509-936-2706 & Kate @ 406-880-0384
Come choose from over 100 handmade beautiful baskets. These baskets are sure to add some beauty to your deck or patio this summer. We specialize in hanging baskets, color bowls, etc. Also check out our selection of healthy vegetables for your garden.
Open 6 days a week. Monday - Saturday
Look for our sign on Eastside Highway
12. K&S Greenhouse 961-1612 • 204 Black Lane, Corvallis. Open Monday – Saturday, 9am-6pm, Sunday 10am – 4pm. K&S Greenhouse is known for some of the healthiest plants in the Bitterroot, along with an exceptional selection of hanging baskets and deck planters.
In early spring, explore a wide variety of bare-root trees and shrubs, along with bareroot strawberries, raspberries, and asparagus—ready to thrive in your garden.
At K&S, you’ll fnd everything you need to grow your own vegetable garden— seeds, onion sets, and Montana-certifed seed potatoes, plus herb and vegetable starts, including more than 25 varieties of tomatoes. Browse a thoughtfully curated selection of annuals and perennials, and discover a nursery flled with ornamental trees, fruit trees, and shrubs—ready to take root in your landscape. Custom container plantings are available. Purchase gift certifcates in-store or at www.ksgreenhouse.com.
13. Vern’s Nursery (406) 360-0170, www.vernsnursery.com 649 Hwy 93 North, Hamilton Vern’s Nursery is a one-of-a-kind nursery in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley. With row upon row of mature ball & burlap trees you’re sure to fnd the right tree for you. We also carry smaller potted trees for those wanting an easier install. Vern’s carries only the best trees suited for the Bitterroot Valley.
Evans Ace understands that spending time in your garden isn’t all about work. We have everything you need to relax and entertain outdoors as well. Add to your bragging rights with grills and accessories from TRAEGER, WEBER, BIG GREEN EGG, GOZNEY, RECTEC, and More! We can ensure you consistent value throughout the growing season with national sales events from now until August. For even more savings Download the Ace App.
15. Cooks’ Gardens, the Greenhouse 363-0212 - 177 Golf Course Rd - Hamilton. Conveniently located just 2 blocks of of Highway 93. A seasonal greenhouse, Cook’s Gardens ofers a selection of unique annuals, deer resistant perennials, grasses, succulents, over 30 varieties of tomatoes, other veggies, yard art and containers. Always friendly, always helpful, we can recommend the right combo for the right spot and we’ll plant up your containers especially for you. April Hours: 10-5, Closed Sundays and Thursdays. May and June hours: Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-4
16. The Scented Garden and Greenhouse Owner Sandie Fleischmann 406-363-7405 • 285 Grundy Lane, Hamilton (just of Grantsdale Road, 2 blocks south of Golf Course Road). Watch for the blue and gold signs. Open 10:30 - 4:30 Mon-Fri, 10-4 Sat, 11-3 Sunday. Organic, homegrown and hand cared for quality plants for all your gardening needs, including large hardy perennials, and bedding plants to numerous to mention. Gorgeous hanging baskets, deck and container pots. We give you ideas for your unique look, with color all year long, that adds quality to your home. Open for the season from April until October. If you haven’t seen our beautiful gardens, please stop by! You might even get a few gardening ideas.
17. Murdoch’s Ranch & Home Garden Center & Greenhouse 406-363-7644 - 1189 S. First St. (Hwy 93) Hamilton - South end of Hamilton Open M-Sat, 7:30am-7:00pm, Sunday, 9:30am6:00pm Open All Year!
Murdoch’s is your newest neighborhood Greenhouse. We carry all your gardening essentials. Open all year carrying seasonal plants including a large and eccentric variety of houseplants. Fall bulbs, mums, pansies, Christmas trees (live and cut), Poinsettias, Christmas and Spring cactus, and more. We have a HUGE variety of locally sourced trees, shrubs, vegetables, seeds- both regular and organic,seed starter kits and mini greenhouses, annual bedding plants, hanging baskets, perennials, annuals, fruit trees, berries, bare root berries, seed potatoes, onion sets, Patio Tomatoes ready to go, wide variety of vegetable starts and fowers galore. We carry three types of whiskey barrels, a variety of deck or porch planters & pots, raised garden beds, garden soils and conditioners along with a variety of bark and mulch. We also carry fun garden decorative accents along with chimes, yard furniture and whimsical yard decorations. You can fnd a huge variety of essential garden tools, shade cloth, deer/bird netting, and ground cover to prevent weeds. Check out our huge seasonal isles for all your lawn care needs: You fnd sprinklers large and small, Trimmers& Edgers, Grass & Weed killers, Lawn Safe Weed Killers, Grass and Pasture Seed, Lawn Fertilizers Spot Sprayers, Soil Amendments & Mulch, Garden
Kim Dailey: big claims, basic misstep
Kim Dailey, currently running for House District 85, was recently asked a simple question: What would you cut frst to reduce government spending?
Her answer? Military pay! “They get too much money,” she told us.
Her reasoning? “My husband was a Major… we had plenty of money.” But moments later, she added “they had to live within a budget.”
In Dailey’s world, having “plenty of money” and “carefully budgeting” are apparently the same thing. But anyone who has lived on a fxed income, military or civilian, knows better.
But here’s the bigger issue: state legislators don’t control military pay. That’s set at the federal level. So, the very frst “cut” she proposes isn’t just questionable, it’s not even part of the job she’s seeking. And the confusion doesn’t stop there.
Dailey also complained about property taxes, claiming she wasn’t getting the same break as homeowners, even though she owns fve houses - long-term rental properties.
But...Montana law already gives long-term rentals the same lower-tax structure as primary residences. Short-term, income-style rentals are taxed at higher rates, while long-term rentals like hers are included in the break.
In other words, the system already benefts from the kind of properties she owns.
If she’s not seeing that beneft, it raises a fair question: Did she read the law? Did she apply for the classifcation? Or is this simply a misunderstanding of how the system works?
So, what do we know about Dailey?
She made a proposal to cut something she has no authority over…
She has a misunderstanding of basic state vs. federal responsibilities…
She made a tax complaint that doesn’t match how the law works!
Elections are about who understands the job, the numbers, and the real-world impact of both. For legislators, when it comes to budgets, taxes, and the people afected by them, understanding the basics is essential. Dailey doesn’t get it.
Voters in HD85 deserve someone grounded in reality, who does because this job is about getting it right - the frst time.
Please vote for a competent woman, Michele Binkley, to be our next senator and watch her work her magic for us!
Sit back, relax and pat yourselves on the back – we elected a great candidate to be our next representative for HD 85 – Michele Binkley! Like the song, Michele is our belle!!
Helen Sabin Corvallis
Bison
Key facts about bison and cattle relationships:Family & Tribe: Both belong to the family \(Bovidae\) and the tribe \(Bovini\) (bovines).Relationship to Cows: Bison (Bison bison) are closely related to domestic cattle (Bos taurus) and are sometimes considered part of the same Bos genus, or a closely nested genus.Hybrids: Bison can mate with domestic cows to produce fertile ofspring, often referred to as “beefalo”. Distinct Species: Despite being in the same family, they are not the same animal. Bison are wild animals with distinct hump and hair characteristics, whereas cows are domesticated descendants of the aurochs.
Provided lean protein meat for the North American continent for thousands of years. Open range included what is now Federal lands.
And now being evicted just like the less fortunate people living in trailer parks. So the trailer parks are being converted to RV parks for the people that come here to see the BISON?
Darrell Hunt Hamilton
Threat level
The Sheep Creek Mine proposition is a threat at every level.
Tony Hudson, a native Montanan and protector of all that is Montana, sponsored
Opinion
the May 5 public meeting regarding the Sheep Creek Mine. The unequaled secrecy surrounding the proposition is an indication of the degree of uncertainty being presented. The public is being asked to approve something that is being hidden and carries an extreme price. The project remains included in the Fast Track Procedure with what appears to be an intent to gain approval before those afected have time to consider the facts. Seeking a goodfaith approval based on speculation.
The meeting was an attempt to shine the light of knowledge in dark places and was a resounding success.
Dr. Phillip Ramsey, a specialist in the subject of mining, and the results presented facts that support a refusal to approve the mine. Based on fact.
The individuals seeking public ofce spoke of those things precious to us all. To a person, they pledged not to support the proposition and to maintain their eforts to preserve and protect the Bitterroot Valley and Montana.
Government assurances have many failures and ofer little in the form of what was promised. Military involved in early atomic bomb experiments were assured that exposure would have no permanent efects. They died lingering and painful deaths. A more recent example is the Covid Experiment. Recall a Dr. Fauchi and the assurances made. Recall the results.
The residents of the Valley are being asked to approve ecological suicide.
William (Bill) Campbell Conner
The swamp
The Republicans in Washington have been talking about, “draining the swamp”. They drained the swamp when they fred about 90 percent of the government employees, (loyal civil servants). When the swamp was drained, that left only vicious alligators, poisonous snakes, poisonous spiders and toads. The alligator, Pete Hegseth. The snake; Steve Miller. The sneaky spider; Scott Besson and the toads; Kash Patel, Robert Kenedy, Kristi Noem and Pam Bondi. The toads jump when the King of the swamp tells them to jump. They just jump with no rhyme nor reason. They just jump whenever the King tells them to jump. The King of the swamp; Trump, is left knee deep in mud not knowing which way to turn to get himself out!
Charles Sleath Hamilton
Roads or repairs
On the ballot for June 2 nd , we are asked to decide if we want to maintain the Ravalli County Roads. It will cost most of us less than $100.00. Taxes is a way in which everyone shares the load to improve our community. If we all pay something thing than nobody has to pay a lot. Our neighbors who have built large houses pay more than those that live in small houses. We live in an area where there are frost heaves, wash outs, vehicles with chains and snow tires, that add to the maintenance of the roads. If we choose not to repair the frost heaves, and wash outs than we will spend more on vehicle maintenance. As a garage owner I know that $100.00 a year does not go far when repairing steering and suspension on a vehicle. Please vote FOR the mill levy.
Carol Peterson Corvallis
Importance of wilderness for youth
According to various studies, young people are experiencing increasingly elevated rates of anxiety, depression, loneliness, low self-esteem, short attention spans, low levels of empathy, and obesity, and much of the blame comes from experiencing life through a screen. But we don’t need to read scientifc journals to know this is true - we see it anecdotally every day in our children and in ourselves. We cannot eliminate technology
from our lives, but as we watch digital relationships replace in-person interactions, and virtual entertainment replace outdoor play, we see and feel the efects that our evolving world has upon our brains. This also afects the way we interact with each other and the physical world. Now more than ever, we need to reinvest in our youth the values that will lead to a healthier population and a more sustainable environment. Our future depends on it.
Wilderness afords the increasingly rare opportunity to disengage from digital life. It is a break from the artifcial world. For the sake of our mental health, we must occasionally surrender our shortening attention spans away from our screens, and escape the constant stimulation of nagging social media notifcations, buzzing news updates, and accumulating texts and emails. Wilderness ofers diferent sources of stimulation, ones more tangible and authentic: streams cascading over rocks, rustling grasses, and melodic birdsong. Wilderness forces us to slow down and stop multitasking; to take a breath, engage in something difcult, learn, explore, grow, work, laugh, and have unmediated, analog fun; to forget about busy schedules and to-do lists. In wilderness, all we need is the task at present - getting over that hill, fltering water, setting up a tent, building a campfre. And sometimes, we need no task at all.
Wilderness is unique in that it is exceptionally capable of providing spaces and opportunities for growth. There are no quick satisfactions in wilderness. The best campsites and the most breathtaking vistas often require hiking long distances over rugged terrain. Through burning blisters, groaning muscles, pesky mosquitos, and soaking rain, we learn humility, fortitude, and resilience. Through long periods in remote settings we learn confdence. After a week of roughing it without running water, WiFi, or a comfortable bed, we learn to appreciate the modern conveniences we take for granted. Carrying everything we need to survive on our backs teaches independence and self-reliance. Engaging in wilderness stewardship opportunities, such as helping maintain backcountry trails, teaches us even more. The lessons learned from hiking and pulling a crosscut saw through a tangle of downed snags and heavy brush are innumerable: problem solving, teamwork, resourcefulness, critical thinking, patience, the value of hard work, and pride in our public lands. Experiencing all of this with complete strangers requires us to step out of our comfort zones. Wilderness empowers, builds character, and forges the leaders of tomorrow. Unfortunately, the wilderness is taken for granted. The majority of young people have not ventured into wilderness, nor do they know what it is. Exploring the backcountry safely and responsibly requires a foundational set of skills, gear, and local knowledge. This can be daunting and expensive for young adventurers and future public land stewards. But the Selway Bitterroot Frank Church Foundation’s (SBFC) Youth Wilderness Program provides these resources, and connects teens to their backyard wilderness areas. A youth wilderness expedition is often a kid’s frst, and perhaps most powerful, backcountry experience, one that may lead them on a pathway to becoming an SBFC Wilderness & Trails Intern, volunteer, or professional public lands steward. SBFC, and other similar groups, provide the stepping stones for a lifetime of discovery, and a commitment to stewardship. Ian Harris, SBFC Missoula
I knew Steve Daines before the swamp did
I have known Steve Daines since he was a junior in high school, and I could not be more disappointed in what he has become.
I remember a very diferent Steve Daines. Back when he was president of the College Republicans at Montana State University, I watched him organize a dorm voter registration drive. It was energetic, efective, and
genuinely grassroots. Looking back, it may have been the last truly selfess political act of his career. Somewhere along the way, Steve changed. He rose through the Gianforte orbit, climbed the ladder, and became exactly what Montana Republicans claim to despise: a creature of the D.C. Swamp. The man who once worked to bring voters in now works to keep real choices out. The grassroots activist became a gatekeeper for the D.C. Cartel. And now Montana Republicans are paying the price.
Steve Daines has made a career out of good timing and carefully avoiding real political risk. In 2012, he frst set his sights on the U.S. Senate, but when Denny Rehberg decided to run, Daines took the easier path and switched to the open House seat rather than face a competitive Republican primary. In 2014, his Senate path benefted after John Walsh’s collapse. In 2020, he ran with the political wind at his back. And now, after spending years avoiding difcult contests himself, he is trying to deny Montana Republicans the very thing he has so often escaped: a real choice.
Steve Daines has now helped disenfranchise Republican primary voters in three major federal races: the 2024 U.S. Senate primary, the 2026 U.S. Senate primary, and the 2026 western U.S. House race. In 2024, even before that Senate primary fully developed, national Republican leaders had already coalesced around Tim Sheehy, with Daines among his leading backers. Then came 2026, and the arrogance got worse.
Daines fled for reelection when the fling period opened, then withdrew just two minutes before the fling deadline. At nearly the same moment, Kurt Alme entered the race. Two days earlier, Ryan Zinke announced he would not seek reelection in the western House district, and Aaron Flint rolled out with endorsements from Daines, Zinke, and Gianforte, in the same handpicked, behindthe-scenes style Montanans just saw in the Senate race.
This is what the Swamp looks like in Montana: last-minute deals, handpicked successors, frozen-out challengers, and party insiders treating voters like an inconvenience. Steve Daines now believes he knows better than Montana Republicans. He thinks Washington should choose Montana’s voice in Washington, instead of letting Montana Republicans choose it for themselves. That is not leadership. That is not confdence. It is the behavior of a political boss who no longer trusts the people and no longer respects the voters who put him where he is.
Brad Johnson, former Montana Secretary of State Helena
Vote
Binkley
for HD 85
I strongly believe that it is time we reject the far left and far right opinions that seem to be currently driving our political process. It is time we vote for the candidate that shares the values of the people they represent. I am a proud member of the Republican Party - the party that celebrates individual liberty. I do not appreciate the way dark money groups are consistently bashing all candidates. It is incumbent upon us all to get to know the candidate before we vote.
As a conservative who believes strongly that government should represent the people, I would like to encourage people to vote for Michele Binkley in the upcoming primary for House District 85.
Michele will always put her constituents frst. She’s proven that she will stand up to dark money groups, party bosses and out-ofstate special interests who are pushing their own agenda at Montana’s expense.
Having seen the way Michele worked in both the private and public sectors, I know her to be extremely honest. She holds to her values even at her own peril as shown by consistently voting her conscience against party lines. She votes for the people she
of caring individuals who ethically and responsibly strive to deliver essential news and information to our local community. Publishing Information The Bitterroot Star is published every Wednesday by Bitterroot Star Newspaper, Co, a division of Mullen Newspapers. The advertising and editorial content deadline is Friday at 5 p.m. We strive to include news 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
Bitterroot Star staf
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represents – not the party bosses. She served as the representative for HD 85 in both the 2021 and 2023 sessions. She has served on Appropriations Committee, Montana’s Mental Health Commission, the House Rules Commission, the Energy, Technology and Federal Relations Committee, the House State Administration Committee and the Agriculture Committee. In short, Michele knows her way around the legislative system and the people of Ravalli County will have someone ready to go to work on day one.
Michele is committed to ofering school choice and recognizes that we need both strong public schools and strong alternative choices. She also knows that Montana’s young people need opportunities for quality vocational training for those who are not going to college. I applaud her eforts in working for afordability, lower taxes, and rural health.
On June 2, I urge you to vote Michele Binkley for House District 85. She will serve you well!
Teri Polumsky Corvallis
Keep a true conservative representing Ravalli Co.
Ravalli County has continually sent true conservatives to the Montana legislature, people who represented their interests and values. David Bedey has been one of them in his four terms in the Montana House. Now, he is running for the Montana Senate in District 43, the Hamilton area and south. That tradition is endangered and under attack as outside dark money has been attempting to hijack the Montana Republican Party. Now, authentic Republicans who have gone to Helena to work with all factions to get the job done are getting primaried by radicals who want to ensure every member answers to the party bosses rather than the people who elect them. There is a growing movement to evolve the Republican Party into an extremist organization, out of touch with ordinary Montanans.
Folks in the Upper Bitterroot have a chance this June to keep this from happening by sending Representative David Bedey back to Helena to represent their values, this time as a Montana State Senator. He is frmly committed to restoring the Montana Legislature to a civil organization and ridding it of the toxic environment that has turned neighbors against one another over certain issues. Finding common ground was once a hallmark of Montana legislative sessions, and as a result, things got done, and all Montanans benefted.
It was people like David Bedey who, in the last session, worked for that common ground that accomplished things and prevented some radical policies from being adopted that would have been an embarrassment to the citizens of Ravalli County and
the state as a whole.
Also noteworthy is that Bedey believes state legislators play a major role in preserving the principles embodied in the constitutions of the United States and the state of Montana. And believes that these so-called “patriots” are agitating for a second American revolution—a civil war. They have given up on America. He refuses to join them.
He is also an active supporter of protecting public lands, keeping them in public ownership, and ensuring Montanans have the right to access them as part of Montana’s economy and quality of life.
Rick Graetz Missoula
HATE!
As an 84 year old Christian, that word really bothers me, but that’s where my mind goes every election year with the attack ads that food our mailboxes and dominate our TV viewing, except for PBS. When a person or organization deliberately lies to you, do you ever trust them again? There were two opinion letters in the May 13 issue of the Star that pointed out the lies in the political slick mailers we are getting. Paul Stanton and Klint Cleveland did their homework and proved the statements in the mailers were outright lies.
Some of the mailers are coming from a group called Accountability In State Government, which proves the title of any group can be misleading. I am curious about how people vote. Does the R or D letter associated with the person’s name determine your selection? Do you look at the candidate’s voting record, if they have previously held ofce? Do you believe everything they say in their ads? I have a simple flter I use in casting my vote for people that have held offce. Does the candidate’s record refect their pride in how many bills they voted against or does their record refect their willingness to work with people to get things accomplished for the betterment of all Montanan’s? Our Nation, State and County are divided and the division is driven by the extreme minority in both Republican and Democratic Parties.
The extremes consider the other party as the enemy and, in their view, you can never have any agreement or association with the enemy. Why do you think the approval rating of our National Congress is approaching single digits? They spend more time fghting each other and not working together for the beneft of all citizens. Again, this is driven by the extremes, and now the division is evident within the parties. This is front page right here in “River City,” and our Treasure State, within the Republican Party!
Don’t you think it’s time for us average party members to stand up and elect intelligent, responsible people that are willing to work with others for the beneft of all of us? Those people are Bedey, Rusk and Binkley! Sonny LaSalle Hamilton
Primary relief
As the primary election approaches, can we expect some relief from the vitriolic campaign garbage in OUR mailboxes paid for by far away from Montana money??? At least on my phone or tablet I can block those intrusions that annoy me. Probably wishful thinking. What I hope is not wishful thinking is that those who emerge from these contentious primaries, will move on to the November election with the frm conviction to, if elected, vote their conscience but NOT in lock step with party ideology but with a genuine commitment and consideration to serve ALL their constituents; those who voted for them and those who did not.
I can say, without hesitation, I have no need to impose my “ideology” or my religious convictions on anybody else and I expect no one, particularly anyone who has chosen an elected ofce in public service, to impose theirs on me.
The phraseology…….”and with liberty and justice for all”, means just that, not only for those who see IT my way, or yours.
Here’s to an empty mail box and civility in governance.
John Grant Hamilton
President Trump has no decency!
Why do we have to listen to him demean reporters who are simply asking questions and seeking answers on behalf of the American people.
Presidents should be Presidential! We want to be proud of our presidents… not embarrassed by the nasty, demeaning, sarcastic remarks that this president makes to America’s news reporters… insults, such as calling reporters a terrible person… …a disgrace… stupid… representatives of news outlets that are trash…and it is usually against women!
I think back to former Presidents like Reagan, Bush, Carter, Clinton, Obama, and Biden. You would never hear such language out of the mouths of any of these gentlemen… and I say, gentlemen, as opposed to our current president, who is no gentleman!
Tom Tunny Hamilton
Another halt to Big Corral Park
The Ravalli County Park Board & County Commissioners meeting is considering the idea that sounds less like responsible planning and more like a pep rally for a taxpayer-funded gymnasium nobody was asking for in the frst place.
Apparently, the newest obsession is building a giant indoor palace where people can sit under fuorescent lights staring at scoreboards while the Bitterroot Valley’s actual beauty sits outside ignored. Because
nothing says “quality of life” like more concrete, more asphalt, more maintenance bills, and another giant building taxpayers get chained to forever.
Here’s the question nobody seems eager to answer: who pays for this kingdom of squeaky sneakers and folding bleachers?
Out-of-County or non-proft organization money leaving taxpayers with the bill. Property owners and working families already getting hammered with rising taxes, utilities, insurance, and grocery bills. Once the ribbon-cutting, photo ops are over; the bills never stop. Electricity, heating, repair, stafng, insurance, parking lot maintenance, water, bathrooms, security. Every year taxpayers get handed the tab like an unwanted cafeteria lunch bill.
And for what?
A massive indoor gym project needing 3–5+ acres, parking lots, bathrooms, bleachers, and endless upkeep while the county has ONE fenced dog park where families can take their pets.
Want to know what people actually use?
Outdoor spaces like dog parks, walking paths, picnic areas, historic signs, trees, open green space where kids can move around and play instead of sitting inside glued to televisions, tablets, phones, and gaming systems. Places where families can actually enjoy their Montana community.
Meanwhile, existing facilities already sit underused. Tennis courts, pickleball courts, undeveloped parks. Yet somehow the answer from the county’s social committee is always: “Let’s build another monument project taxpayers maintain forever.”
The problem nobody wants to say out loud: what happens to events already struggling for space? Car shows, outdoor gatherings, community events, and agricultural activities that need open areas; not giant buildings swallowing acreage, parking, and valley views.
Meanwhile, regular taxpayers are left outside wondering why nobody thought a dog park, expanded outdoor recreation, historical walking areas, shaded green space, or preserving open land might serve more people at a fraction of the long-term cost.
Whose boondoggle is this? And who gets stuck paying for it in the end? And, who’s getting rich of of the so-called “non-proft” excursion? While taxpayers ft the bill. Also, what it does to property values.
It’s time for Ravalli County residents to speak out. Call the Park Board and say NO to the gym and YES to outdoor recreation, open space, and a fenced dog park.
Big Corral Park was never meant to be a gymnastic complex, but a simple public open land park.
