TOURISM: revolving loan fund gives local businesses a leg
Continued from page 1
ous industries and locations. 37.5% goes into the Montana General Fund, which is further broken down. Some of those funds go into the Department of Commerce. These funds also directly impact state park funds, and in Ravalli County, a large chunk of the funds from the lodging taxes go back into short-term rentals.
In Montana, “visitors actually fund tourism,” said Friede. This is unlike many other states, where state general funds are used to fund tourism activities, signage and parks.
However, there are some growing pains in the area to create those major economic-driving businesses, which were discussed at the event. One such concern was that hotels need commercial sewer, and Hamilton and Darby are the only ones with that attached to the highway.
Another issue voiced was that infrastructure across the state is old and not built to support the high levels of tourism the state sees. However, there are some things in the works, said Friede.
According to her, they (her organization and the state) want to “promote and preserve qualities that make Montana a great place to live.”
Additionally, “Only 20% of every dollar goes into promotion.” She added that the state is starting to see a decline in those lodging funds, with fewer visitors coming to Montana. Because of this, the state and tourism organizations like Glacier Country Montana, are trying to make efforts to bring those funds back.
One such method is the Tourism RLF, which Foster believes businesses should try to take advantage of. One business featured at that April 12 event was the Lost Horse Lodge, which was in near-disrepair prior to seeking assistance from RCEDA and the Tourism RLF.
According to Foster, there are many benefits to the RLF. She said a typical loan has higher interest rates of at least 7%. “We don’t want to be the bank,” said Foster. In fact, they are “always trying to get people to the bank” because that supports local affairs. This program boasts from 4 to 6% interest at most, but requires $2 to every $1 to come from other funding sources, such as a bank. What this means is much more flexibility and
accessibility to funds.
The Tourism RLF grant is not as constrained on what can be offered, such as interest-only payments. Foster wanted to be clear that this is not free money, and recipients still need to pay it back within the five years. But, that flexibility can be a big part of what makes this fund so powerful. “If you think about tourism,” Foster added, “it’s seasonal.” This could potentially offer a way for a business to make small or almost no payments in the off-months, when there is no money coming in.
It all depends on the plan set ahead of time, and the plans are flexible. “We really want these businesses in our community,” said Foster. Additionally, those funds, once paid back, will go back into the
community again, perpetually helping to reinforce tourism businesses in the area.
“Tourism doesn’t necessarily mean people moving here,” said Foster. She said this regarding another conversation that took place during the April 12 event, which saw concern over those in the area who are “anti-tourism.”
Friede advised, “Part of it is showing them how important it is to you, as a business owner.”
She also said that reframing it as “visitors, not tourists,” might help, as long as those visitors are respectful of local views and mindsets.
Another to speak at the April 12 event was Taylor Tidwell, the tourism partner grant coordinator with the Montana Department of Commerce, which is
managing the Tourism RLF. She added to the previous comments, saying, “Tourism is kind of a trigger word.” However, it is also crucial to Montana’s economy. According to Foster, the state has all but lost other major industries, such as timber, as a main economic driver. “We have to build up the assets that we have,” which are primarily in the tourism industry.
Tidwell said the department is awarding $19.25 million over the next five years to support seven rural communities. $24 million will go to the RLF, with access to over $1 million of that through RCEDA. Foster recommends that if anyone is interested, has an idea for a local tourism business or wants to learn more, they can contact RCEDA at (406) 375-9416.
Racene Friede speaks during the “lunch and learn” event, hosted in partnership with the Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce, Glacier Country Montana, the Montana Department of Commerce and the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority. Photo by John Dowd.
ELK: local mounts part of nationwide re-introduction
Continued from page 1
the frefghters are big hunters and love history. For them, “Those elk are part of our history, and a part of our passion.”
According to Walker, the fre department was founded in 1893, but did not get of the ground until around 1897. It is likely that those elk were added very early on in the life of the department, and at the time, the department would have been active and might have responded to the disaster of the frst attempt to re-introduce elk into the valley. The real story may never be known.
Because they have been hung in their fre department for nearly as long as the fre department has existed, Walker and others believe it is almost an inseparable part of the fre hall culture. Recently, the department moved into a new building, and with “the new station, we needed new looking elk,” said Walker.
Kohn spoke on the process of restoring the historic elk mounts, saying that, in those days, these types of mounts were originally done as neck mounts. Shoulder mounts did not become popularized until the 1970s. He also had to contend with historic taxidermy techniques.
Kohn said he would not work on the
original mounts without a hazmat suit, and discarded everything that was disintegrated and unsalvageable. The only original thing left from the over-a-century-old elk are the antlers.
Kohn’s concerns stemmed from the chemicals historic taxidermists used, which slowly poisoned them. Things such as arsenic and formaldehyde were common preservatives. At that time, Kohn said, taxidermists had a short lifespan. These mounts were also assembled in the old way, put together using wood and nails. Today, forms are sculpted from foam, plaster and clay and can produce much more anatomically correct animals. Also in those days, they used painted marbles for the eyes, which could only be so accurate and could not portray the same life. Now, taxidermists use special glass eyes that are almost indistinguishable from the real thing.
Kohn’s son, Kameron Kohn, along with Kurt and Walker, placed a written history of the elk on the back of the mounts, so that in 100 years, when they need to be refurbished again, the story of the two Hamilton Fire Hall elk will be told again.
Kurt Kohn, Kameron Kohn, grandaughter Kodi Kohn and Travis Walker in the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, with the elk mounts in their fnal place. Photo by John Dowd.
Michael Dale McLeod ‘BIG Mike’
Victor - Michael Dale McLeod “BIG Mike”, born February 16, 1953, in Wichita, KS, passed away peacefully at his home in Victor, MT, on March 27, 2026. He was a loving son, brother, father, uncle, great-uncle, and grandfather. A U.S. military veteran who served in Germany, Mike lived a long, full life flled with travel, memories, and love. He possessed a laugh that could fll a room. He was loved by many.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Mary Virginia Smith; father, Edward Ollis McLeod; brother, William McLeod; wife, Ruth Cunningham; sisters-in-law, Myretta McLeod and Karen McLeod; and brother-in-law, Robert D. Cox. He is survived by his brothers, Edward McLeod of Reno, NV, Cliford McLeod of Wichita, KS, and David McLeod of Victor, MT; sister, Virginia Cox of Ashland, KY; children, James McLeod and Micheal (Gwyn) McLeod of Victor, MT; his granddaughter; and many nieces and nephews. A burial service will be held on Friday, June 5, 2026 at 10:30 AM at the Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula, followed by a gathering at Paradise Falls. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County
In the Matter of the Name
Change of Christine Marie Smith: Christine Marie Smith, Petitioner
Cause No.: DV-41-20260000162-NC
Dept. No.: 1- Howard F. Recht
Notice of Hearing on Name Change
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Christine Marie Smith to Christine Marie Greene. The hearing will be on 06/03/2026 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County.
Date: April 15, 2026. Paige Troutwein, Clerk of Court /s/ Michelle Goldman, Deputy Clerk of Court
BS 4-22, 4-29, 5-6, 5-132026. MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE RICHARD GOLPHENEE, Deceased.
Probate No.: DP-2026-48
Dept. No.: 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Rick Kindle has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Rick Kindle, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd St., Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
BS 4-29, 5-6, 5-13-2026.
MNAXLP
Legal Notice
The Ravalli County Board of Health (BOH) will conduct a Public Meeting to receive citizen comment on a variance requested by Jeremiah Harmon, for the Property known as 3045 US Highway 93 South, Darby, Parcel # 1150300. The request is to allow Recreational Vehicle campground licensing on the Property without providing potable water, a variance from Administrative Rules of Montana 37.111.1207. Property description: PT LOT 3 LESS R-W INDEX C, CS #731698-CT PARCEL A, 15.31 ACRES. Information describing the variance request will be available for inspection on May 6, 2026, at the Ravalli County Environmental
Health Department, in the Administrative Center, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite D, Hamilton, MT 59840. The public meeting will be held Wednesday, May 13, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room at the Administrative Center. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, at the meeting. Comments and information submitted at the public meeting will be considered in the decision on said variance request. BS 4-29, 5-6-2026. MNAXLP
The Town of Darby is accepting sealed bids for the following: 1. 2009 Chevrolet Trailblazer 2. 1994 Toyota Truck 3. 2004 Polaris 600cc 4-wheeler w/snowplow.
The vehicles are located at 101 E. Tanner Avenue, Darby. Please specify on the outside of the envelope which vehicle you are bidding on. Sealed bids will be received by the Town of Darby located at 101 E. Tanner Avenue, Darby, until 5 PM on May 26, 2026. Bids will be opened by Town Council on May 26, 2026, 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
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA) will hold a public hearing May 20, 2026 beginning at 3:30 p.m. in the RCEDA Conference Room, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton, MT. The RCEDA Board of Commissioners will consider adopting a resolution authorizing participation in the Board of Investments of the State of Montana short Term Investment Pool (STIP) and authorizing the execution and delivery of documents related thereto. At this time public comment will be taken and considered. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. Written comments on establishing the Resolution may be submitted to Julie Foster, RCEDA Executive Director, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Suite A, Hamilton, MT 59840 or julie@rceda.org. For further information, call the RCEDA at 406-375-9416.
BS 5-6, 5-13-2026.
MNAXLP
Request for Proposals Aggregate Crushing Services
The Ravalli County Board of Commissioners is soliciting Request for Proposals for aggregate crushing services for various sites in Ravalli County.
Proposals will be received by the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second Floor) Hamilton, MT 59840 until Friday at 4:00 p.m., May 15, 2026. Proposals will then be opened by the Ravalli County Commissioners at 11:00 a.m. on May 18, 2026 in the Commissioners Conference Room (Third Floor) at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT.
For a copy of the Full Request for Proposal and Specifcations for the construction seal, contact the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department at 244 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, MT during regular business hours or by calling 406-363-2733.
For questions concerning the Request for Proposal process, contact Chris Taggart at the Ravalli County Commissioners Ofce – 406-375-6500.
Chris Taggart, Administrative Assistant Ravalli County Commissioners Ofce
BS 5-6, 5-13-2026.
MNAXLP
Call for Bids
Construction Remodel –County Attorney’s Ofce Ravalli County Courthouse 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton MT 59840
The Board of Ravalli County Commissioners are calling for bids for a construction remodel project in the County Attorney’s Ofce, located on the main foor of the Ravalli County Courthouse, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The successful bidder will be required to enter into a Contract for Services with Ravalli County.
Bids are due no later than Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 1:00 PM, at the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder’s Ofce, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second Floor) Hamilton, MT 59840. Bids must be submitted within a sealed envelope and clearly marked “Construction Remodel in the Ravalli County Attorney’s Ofce”. Bids are scheduled to be opened on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 1:30 PM in the County Commissioners’ meeting room, 215 S. 4th Street (Third Floor), Hamilton MT 59840, followed by possible award.
For a copy of the Full Call for Bids (necessary for bidding), which includes the Demo Plan, Remodel Plan; Electrical Plan; Schedule for bidding, pre-bid walk through for contractors, and anticipated project dates; and Sample Contract for Service, please contact the Commissioner’s Ofce through the following venues: Commissioner’s Ofce – 215 S. 4th Street, Suite A, Hamilton, 59840; 406-375-6500; or com-
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 Rox-
anne 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, 5-272026.
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 1, 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
Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt
NOTICE OF CLOSE OF REGULAR VOTER REGISTRATION AND OPTION FOR LATE REGISTRATION
Notice is hereby given that regular* voter registration for th e Federal Primary Election to be held on June 2, 2026, will close at 5 PM on May 4, 2026
*NOTE: Pursuant to Senate Bill 490, if you miss this regular registration deadline, you may still register for th e election by showing up at the Raval li County Elections Office Dates you may late register are from May 5 thru May 29, 2026 (Monday th ru Friday, excluding weekends), from 8 AM to 5 PM; May 30 (Saturday), from 8 AM to 5 PM; and on Election Day, June 2, from 7 AM to noon On Monday, June 1, the late registration center will be closed.
All active and inactive electors of the County of Ravalli are entitled to vote at sai d election
Inacti ve electors may reacti vate by appearing at the polling place in order to vote, by requesting an absentee bal lot in any election, or by notifying the County Election Admi nistrator in writing of the elector’s current address in the county
Persons wh o wish to register and who are not presently registered may do so by requesting a form for registration by mail or by appearing at the Raval li County Elections Office, 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, Montana. If you have moved, please updat e your registration information by filling out a new voter registration form and submi tting it to the Ravalli County Elections Office
If you are not sure of your current voter registrati on status, you can check you r status online at https://prodvoterportal mt.gov , or you can call the Elections Office at 375 -6550.
Dated this 9th day of April, 2026
Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Admi nistrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59 840 (406) 375-6550
Star to begin new distribution model
For years, the Bitterroot Star has been proud to deliver the latest community news directly to many of your doorsteps.
We are deeply grateful for the trust you place in us to keep you informed about the Bitterroot Valley.
Montanans are not dupes
Today I’m addressing an issue that should trouble all Montanans, regardless of party afliation—the disgusting goings on in this year’s Republican primary.
Like many of you, I recently received several mailers from a PAC run by a former state senator, Dan Bartel. He accuses me of promoting DEI and wokeness and of “pushing the trans agenda on Montana children.” Bartel’s PAC is also paying for repulsive TV ads that further his own agenda. Other Republicans across the state have sustained similar attacks. Bartel is deliberately misleading you. The two bills he cites as proof don’t mention anything about DEI or the transgender movement. In fact, they were supported on key votes by most Republican legislators. And Bartel himself even voted for one of them. No matter where you stand on this issue, we should all condemn such blatant lying.
ed Republicans while promoting legislative candidates, like my opponent in the race for Senate District 43, who have sworn or otherwise demonstrated allegiance to the party.
by David Bedey
What we have here is yet another efort in a propaganda campaign being orchestrated by MTGOP party chairman, Art Wittich, to purge independent-mind-
The out-of-state special interest groups bankrolling Wittich’s war on traditional conservative Republicans have spent millions of dollars meddling in our elections. You be the judge of their motives. But one thing’s for sure, Americans for Prosperity and the School Freedom Fund don’t care about Montana.
We ought to have open debate about what is best for the people of Montana. But Wittich and his collaborators aren’t interested in fair debate. For them, it’s all about gaining power in the service of a narrow, far-right ideology—and to do it by any means necessary. They have decided that if they tell enough lies to enough people enough times, they can win elections.
This is not the Montana way.
The MTGOP party bosses in Helena think that Montana voters are dupes who can be easily misled. On June 2nd, I urge you to prove them wrong.
To ensure that the Bitterroot Star remains a free resource for our community for years to come, we are transitioning to a more sustainable distribution model. Starting May 20, we will be suspending free residential home delivery in Corvallis and Hamilton to bolster the number of papers found at the stands.
While this change helps us manage the rising costs of private delivery, our core mission hasn’t changed: The paper is still free.
How to get your copy
We are making it easier than ever to find the Star at your convenience.
• 100+ free locations: We are still printing the same number of papers each week, so we will be increasing the number of papers delivered to our racks and adding new
distribution points throughout the valley. A comprehensive list of locations will be published in our upcoming issues.
• Mail subscriptions: For those who prefer the convenience of doorstep delivery and are unable to visit our free locations, we offer annual mail subscriptions for $75 per year (which covers the cost of postage).
We remain committed to providing high-quality local journalism accessible to everyone. If you have any questions or would like to start a mail subscription, please call our office at 406-777-3928. Thank you for supporting local news and for being a part of the Bitterroot Star family.
Sincerely,
The Bitterroot Star team
Brands, sock puppets and me
Those quick to talk about “riding for the brand” often avoid telling you exactly what their brand is. To get myself grounded, I like to remind myself of the brands I ride for: the US Constitution, the Montana Constitution, Jesus Christ, conservative values, Ravalli County, and the veterans who have borne the burdens of our nation, a group that includes my father and both of my sons.
So when I was asked to sign an oath to a political party and its ever changing platform, I reviewed my list of brands. Sure enough, political parties and their feeting platforms weren’t on the list, so I declined. I don’t ride for some random guy momentarily in charge of a political party. Swearing allegiance to a political party isn’t riding for the brand, it’s being a sock puppet.
ly in rural areas, don’t have. So how can we address this without raising taxes?
by Michele Binkley
The small handful of people currently in charge of the Montana GOP want sock puppets, not representatives. To attack fellow Republicans deemed out of step, they have partnered with Northern Virginia-based Americans for Prosperity, who since February have spent over $420,000 attacking their list of targeted Republicans all over the state: Republicans who have been endorsed by Gianforte and passed his agenda, lifelong Republicans, Christians, veterans. These Republicans have passed legislation that defends our way of life, a term that people throw around as a platitude but is actually hard work that requires the ability to follow a basic train of logic. For example, if families are struggling to make ends meet, then both parents will need to have jobs, which means child care, which means access to child care that many Montanans, especial-
• Primary voters of Ravalli County, you have control of outside money influence in this primary election June 2nd.
• Do not vote for candidates supported by Americans for Prosperity. The John Birch Society under a new name and their white Christian naturalist lies do not represent our community or Bitterroot values.
One way to address this was HB 924, a bill introduced by Republicans, passed by a Republican legislature, and signed into law by a Republican governor. The bill allows the state to take interest earned from a growth fund (using money it already has) and spend that interest to help pay for things like access to child care facilities, particularly in rural areas. No tax increase necessary. The fund saves money, invests it wisely, and uses those earnings to strengthen resources Montanans need. What does this sound like to you? Sounds like making your money work for you. It sounds like the conservative values my parents instilled in me: save your dollars, don’t spend money you don’t have, pay for what you need, live simply. It’s not an accident that Montana is the only state in the union that doesn’t need a debt rating.
But Americans for Prosperity and the candidates they support are calling this conservative fscal policy a “slush fund.” That’s fne. In service to their ideological point, they must not have 401k’s or retirement savings. They must be counting on their children passing tax increases to pay for their lack of planning. This may be a sock puppet’s brand of the Republican party, but it’s not one I ride for. To each their own I guess.
I’m just little ol’ Michele Binkley, a Republican out here in House District 85, trying to protect our way of life as best I can. I don’t mind that people disagree with me.‘Cause at the end of the day, it’s Montana; people are allowed to think what they want.
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Bitterroot athletes shine at Top Ten Meet
Bitterroot Valley track and field athletes excelled at the 26th annual Russ Pilcher Top Ten Track and Field Meet in Missoula on Tuesday, April 28. This track meet recruits the “top ten” western Montana high school athletes in each individual event to compete in one location.
The Bitterroot Valley was well represented at the meet this year. Below are each school’s individual results from the meet. A top-five finish against this level of competition is a solid achievement.
Darby: The Darby boys 4x400m relay team of McCoy Townsend, Ben Martin, Gavin Anderson, and Gavin Miller continues to impress as they won the event with a time of 3:26.76. This team now holds the school record in the event. Also for Darby, Gavin Miller took 5th in the 400m (51.16).
Corvallis: Ella Varner won the long jump (17-11.75) and took second in the triple jump (36-2). Ayden Spencer took 2nd in the discus (156-2), 4th in the 200m (22.46), and 6th in the 100m (11.13). The girls 4x100m relay team of Ella Varner, Kate Allen, Jillian Huls, and Lauryn Holmberg took 2nd (49.48). Jillian Huls took 3rd in the 200m (26.09), 4th in the 100m (12.61), and 5th in the long jump (16-7.5). Aidan Emerson took 3rd in the shot put (49-5). The 4x400m relay team of Kate Allen, Lauryn Holmberg, Brynlee Tucker, and Ella Varner took 5th (4:13.56).
Florence: Madigan Hurlbert continues to prove she is one of the best hurdlers in the state as she won the 100m hurdles (14.97). Bailey Kroeker took 2nd in the 400m (59.70). The 4x100m relay team of Taryn Appelhans, Madigan Hurlbert, Bailey Kroeker, and Brinley Skaggs took 5th place, and they set a new school record with a time of 50.06.
Stevensville softball defeats Corvallis
The Stevensville softball team hosted Bitterroot Valley neighbor Corvallis on Tuesday, April 28. The game was an ofensive battle that saw 23 total runs. Stevensville trailed 7-11 heading into the bottom of the seventh inning, then erupted for fve runs to get the 12-11 victory. In the fnal play of the game, Maddix Yeager came to the plate with the bases loaded and hit a double into left, scoring all three runs. For Stevensville, Yeager went 2 for 5 and had six RBIs. Olivia Hanson went 3 for 4, scored four runs, and had two RBIs; and Emma Tan went 2 for 4, scored two runs, and had two RBIs. For Corvallis, Ella Daly went 2 for 4 with three RBIs. Brooklyn Cary went 2 for 5, scored two runs, and had two RBIs; and Isabella Cardullo went 2 for 5 and scored three runs.
Hamilton: Aubrey Korst won the pole vault (12-0). Annalise Lewis won the 800m (2:12.57); Lewis’s time in the 800m is the fastest for any girl in Montana this year. The girls 4x400m relay team of Aubrey Korst, Nellie Dickemore, Aleigha Child, and Annalise Lewis took 2nd (4:09.09). Gracie Werst took 3rd in the shot put (38-2). Taylor Doleac took 3rd in the discus (150-9) and 4th in the 800m (1:58.61). Brayden Lanser took 5th in the 800m (1:58.73). Everett Stumpf took 5th
Boys singles Jeremy Madruga (Stev.) def. Cash Hawks (Ham.) 6-4, 6-2. Drake Tully (Stev.) def. Julio Notte (Ham.) 6-4, 7-6 (8-6). Tony Brown (Stev.) def. Jayce Strain (Ham.) 6-2, 6-3.
Simon Naidi (Ham.) def. RJ Chmeka (Stev.) 6-1, 6-4. Boys Doubles James Tossberg/Jackson Kirkgird (Ham.) def. Louis Eberhardt/Jeremiah St. Germain (Stev.) 6-0, 6-4. Brayden Duce/Oliver Simpkins (Ham.) def. Thane Harms/Lance Morris (Stev.) 6-0, 6-1. Mican Strain/Artem Okopyan (Ham.) def. Ross Cochran/Braiden Ketron (Stev.) 6-0, 6-1.
Bitterroot baseball scores
For Stevensville, Braden Drye went 2 for 4, scored a run, and had an RBI. Jackson Guenzler went 1 for 4 with an RBI. Kaden Wyant went 1 for 2 and scored two runs.
scored two early runs in the seventh, and Maurice Craun came to the plate with bases loaded. Craun then hit a grand slam over the left feld fence to give Corvallis a 10-6 lead. Stevensville scored one run in the bottom of the seventh, but it wasn’t enough, and Corvallis won 10-7. Craun also had a triple; for the game he went 2 for 4 with fve RBIs. Also for Corvallis, Haedon Jessop went 1 for 2 with two RBIs. Joe Hixon went 2 for 2 and scored a run.
Hamilton 13, Stevi 3; Hamilton 13, Stevi 1
The Hamilton baseball team hosted Stevensville on Tuesday, April 28 for a doubleheader. In the frst game, Hamilton won 13-3. For Hamilton, Jackson Lubke went 3 for 4 and scored three runs. Jude Widmer went 3 for 4, scored two runs, and had three RBIs; and Boedy Tadvick and Bridger Huddleston each had two RBIs. For Stevensville, Jackson
Guenzler, Ezekiel Gardea, and Braden Drye each had an RBI.
In the second game, Hamilton won 13-1. Hamilton led 2-1 after fve innings then scored 11 runs in the fnal two innings to get the 13-1 victory. Hamilton pitcher Connor Quinn went six innings, struck out seven batters, and allowed only three hits. Quinn also went 2 for 3 with an RBI. At the plate for Hamilton, Bridger Huddleston went 3 for 5 with an RBI. Adrian Cardullo went 3 for 4, scored three runs, and had an RBI; and Brady DeMoss went 1 for 3 with two RBIs. Stevensville got hits from McCoy Endres, Jackson Guenzler, and Ezekiel Gardea.
Florence 7, MAC 2 The Florence baseball team went to St. Ignatius on Tuesday, April 28, and defeated MAC 7-2. Jordan Vigil earned the complete game win for Florence, allowing only four hits and striking out 12 batters. At the plate for Florence, Chase Wagner went 2 for 5 and scored a run. Vigil, Cason Pickering, and Calan Rocco each had an RBI.
Florence 18, Ronan 2; Florence 15, Ronan 0 Florence hosted Ronan on Friday, May 1, for a doubleheader. In the frst game, Florence won 18-2 in four innings. Chase
Wagner went 2 for 4, hit a home run, scored four runs, and drove in four RBIs. Wagner was also the starting pitcher and struck out fve batters. Also for Florence, Tash Murray went 1 for 3 with three RBIs. Calan
allow
Bitterroot softball teams at Frenchtown
Florence 15, Ronan 6 Florence defeated Ronan 15-6 on Saturday, May 2. Taylor Pyette went 4 for 4, hit a home run, and had three RBIs. Jaden Fisher and Morghan Adams each hit a home run.
Florence 3, Frenchtown 9
Florence lost to host Frenchtown 3-9 on Saturday, May 2. The game was tied 3-3 until Frenchtown scored six runs in the bottom of the sixth. For Florence, Maggie Schneiter and Taylor Pyette each hit home runs.
Corvallis 10,
RBI. Anya Stokes had two RBIs.
discus (146-4). Aleigha Child took
3200m (11:31.09). The 4x400m relay team of Luke McCarthy, Taylor Doleac, Marshall Smith, and Brayden Lanser took 5th (3:28.95).
Stevensville: Reagan Johnstone won the triple jump (37-3), took 2nd in the long jump (17-10.5), and took 4th in the 300m hurdles (46.14). Sophia Hutchison took 4th in both the long jump (17-2.75)
triple jump (35-0.5).
The Florence girls 4x100m relay team of Taryn Appelhans, Brinley Skaggs, Bailey Kroeker, and Madigan Hurlbert took 5th at the Top Ten meet in Missoula on Tuesday, April 28. Their time of 50.06 was a new school record.
Photo courtesy of Florence Carlton School Activities.
The Darby boys 4x400m relay team of Gavin Miller, Gavin Anderson, Ben Martin, and McCoy Townsend, took 1st at the Top Ten meet in Missoula on Tuesday, April 28. Their time of 3:26.76 is a new school record and the fastest
Corvallis pitcher Brooklyn Cary had eight strikeouts against Stevensville on Tuesday, April 28. Stevensville won 12-11. Photo by Scott Sacry.
The Hamilton tennis team hosted Stevensville on Tuesday, April 28. In the girls matches, Hamilton and Stevensville tied 4-4. In the boys matches, Hamilton defeated Stevensville 4-3. Below are the results.
To our generous sponsors, auction donors, participants, and everyone who helped make this year’s spring fundraiser a success for the North Valley Public Library!
The NVPL Foundation and Friends of the Library are grateful for your partnership in this annual event.
PRESENTING SPONSOR
Burnt Fork Ranch
SPONSORS
Bear’s Lair
Burnt Fork Market
Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic
Clearwater Credit Union
Coding for Kids
Cottage Garden Greenhouse
Engel & Volkers, Nicole Jones
Exit Realty Bitterroot Valley
North
Farmer’s State Bank
Five Bears Outftters
Florence Pharmacy
Jake’s Studio
MarshMcClennan Agency
Mid-Valley Chiropractic
Mountain Valley Dermatology and Surgery Center
MQS
The Music Class Five Valleys
SemiLink Materials
State Farm, Darcy Hansen
Stockman Bank
Tamarack Construction Co. Inc.
The UPS Store
Barry Yaskus, Family Dental Care
ALSO
Bill McNulty and David Hardin
Blacksmith Brewing
The Barn on Pine Hollow
All who donated:
• Auction and door prize items
• Monetary gifts
• Food and beverages
Fred and Celeste Statler
Madison Halsey
Dennis and Robin Atchison
Victor Liquor Agency
North Valley Public Library
Director and Staf
North Valley Public Library
Board of Trustees
All our WONDERFUL volunteers
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
BP Library plans expansion with Carnegie Corp. gift
The Bitterroot Public Library has received a $10,000 gift from the Carnegie Corporation of New York, part of the Carnegie Foundation’s efforts to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 2026. The Carnegie Corporation of New York announced the nationwide gifts in October 2025. The Carnegie Funds were dispersed in January 2026.
A Scottish American immigrant, Andrew Carnegie funded the construction of 1,681 free public libraries in the United States between 1886 and 1917 after amassing great wealth. Each of these original libraries were contacted at the beginning of the gift initiative. About 1,280 Carnegie Libraries are still in operation in the United States and acknowledged their link to Carnegie, making them eligible for the celebratory gift.
Approximately 750 of these libraries, including the Bitterroot Public Library, continue to use their original buildings.
The Carnegie Corporation was established in 1911. Carnegie, who championed the free public library movement of the late 19th century, described libraries as “cradles of democracy” that “strengthen the democratic idea, the equality of the citizen, and the royalty of man.”
All recipient libraries can use the funds however they wish to celebrate the 250th anniversary, further their mission, and benefit their community. The Bitterroot Public Library intends to use the gift as a contribution to fundraising for the library expansion project being led by the Bitterroot Public Library Foundation.
“Using the $10,000 to help the BPL Foundation’s fundraising efforts seems like a great way to honor the vision of the Carnegie library donation and history, “ said Library Director Mark Wetherington. “It is a long road ahead, but every dollar helps. The BPL Foundation has been steadily raising funds since the library’s last expansion in the late 1980s.”
“When our library was
built in 1916, it cost about $9,000, less than this gift!” Wetherington continued. As with all Carnegie libraries at the time, the community had to provide the funding for materials (books, chairs, tables, desks) and staffing. The Carnegie donation then was just for the brick-and-mortar building. The land for the Bitterroot Public Library was donated by Margaret Daly, local philanthropist and widow of copper magnate Marcus Daly.
Wetherington said the reason for the expansion project mainly has to do with space. After an expansion in the 1980s, the library has worked to be as creative as possible, using the existing space as efficiently as possible while providing a growing community with sufficient library services.
“This need for services has emphasized the need for more space,” Wetherington said. “An expanded library will create more seating, larger spaces for children and families, more group and community meeting spaces, and allow for better storage of materials and for the library’s collection to grow to better meet the needs and interests of the community.” For more information on the gift or the library expansion, interested persons can contact Wetherington at director@bitterrootpubliclibrary.org or visit the library website at bitter
rootpubliclibrary.org.
The question to be asked!
Here’s the question Bitterrooters should be asking:
What exactly does Americans for Prosperity see in two relatively unknown and not too competent candidates, Kathy Love and Kim Dailey, that makes them worth the glossy mailers and nonstop promotion?
What is so valuable in the valley that AFP would spend thousands of dollars to get these two elected? One that comes to the forefront is SHEEP CREEK MINE!
Let’s start with Kathy Love’s “record. Her big legislative accomplishments in 2025? Two bills that practically walked themselves across the fnish line, handed to her by her political ally, Attorney General Austin Knudsen. Two others on protecting kids were solid. Those were good. But then there’s the bill she didn’t highlight.
She pushed to change one word in election law, from “date of election” to “date of election certifcation.” One word. And in law, one word can change everything.
Keep that in mind as we talk about her voting record.
Love cast 22 “NO” votes on bills that directly afect the Bitterroot: tax relief, infrastructure, public safety, agriculture, and education. Yet somehow, the mailers say she’ll “lower your taxes.” Really?
She voted against property tax relief bills for primary residences in both the short term and long term, but they were already voted on.
So, the claim that she’s riding in to save taxpayers? That doesn’t match the record or reality.
Then there’s public safety.
A state-owned dam at Painted Rocks needs serious work.
Funding to fx it? She voted NO saying she would use the billion-dollar surplus. It has already been assigned to various other sites and funds.
And she wants to be the next senator? Hello?
Public health? Wastewater improvements in Darby? NO.
Agriculture and irrigation upgrades that local producers depend on? NO.
Fishing access, hatcheries, habitat programs mostly funded largely by user fees, not even general taxes? NO.
Wildlife habitat and game bird programs? NO.State parks maintenance? NO.
Education funding, teacher pay, vocational training, charter school fexibility?
NO, NO, NO, and NO.
At some point, you must stop calling that “conservative” and start calling it casual neglect of duty.
And now we’re told Kim Dailey is next in line. She is apparently learning the ropes from Love, with guidance from higher up the political chain.
Dailey talks a lot about “restoring moral values” and the “erosion of morality.” That sounds nice until you remember she’s running for the legislature, not the pulpit.
Writing laws isn’t about grading your neighbors on morality. It’s about budgets, infrastructure, and solving real problems like that dam, those schools, and those tax bills.
Montana doesn’t need elected ofcials deciding who meets their personal defnition of righteousness. We need ofcials who meet our standards: competence, honesty, efort, and results.
Rights and freedoms are not the same thing as someone’s idea of “morals.” They aren’t interchangeable, no matter how many times you say it in a campaign speech.
Please consider that both campaigns smell with the odor of out of state money, and SHEEP CREEK MINE has a foul odor about it too, then Bitterroot voters have a decision to make.
Look at the votes. Think and consider Love V. Bedey and Dailey V. Binkley, who represented the valley in 2021 and 2023. Because come 2027, these are the people
Opinion
asking to represent you. And that’s a choice worth taking seriously. You can see who is worthy of our votes.
Helen Sabin Corvallis
Vote to fght sexual violence
To say that Montana’s children and women are in grave danger as a direct result of government corruption and incompetence is not an exaggeration.
Luckily for Montana, we have an opportunity to select a US Senator who has experience correcting those issues, from citizens organizing at the local level all the way to identifying threats from within at the highest levels of government.
Alani Bankhead isn’t a “no-name” because she has been spending her adult life getting the work done, not seeking notoriety. That makes her THE name. Her work experience sets the bar high, and even if others do prove to be good people, they still haven’t put hundreds of pedophiles and corrupt ofcials in jail like Alani has.
I am a several time sexual assault survior, plus escaping an abduction attempt where I heard them say “we can’t lose her, she is perfect for our client.” Agencies that have dismissed and severely underserved me include: Billings PD, University of Montana PD, City of Missoula PD, Missoula Municipal Court, and Missoula District Court. I will not recreate in Mineral, Lake, or Yellowstone Counties without trusted accompaniment due to their gross mishandlings of missing women.
Statistically speaking, there are about 400,000 survivors of sexual violence in Montana, with 1.1 million being our state population, and the vast majority of those survivors are women. Now, we should name our abusers, yes, but that only puts us in harms way unless the societal systems “protect and serve” the vulnerable. I don’t have to be the one that tells you that they don’t.
We all know the names: Rebekah, Jermain, Arden, Nefataree, Rickisha, Emily, Mika, Ashley, Shawna… I could go on and on, and you could too.
It is time for the 400,000 to rise up and demand a government that values our lives. How many more names will we have to list before we do just that?
Alani Bankhead will hit the ground running in DC on directly aiding Montana’s women and children, because that is already proven in her career.
Lea Bossler Carlton
Disabled
As I parked under a sign that acknowledged my personal defciencies, reality parked with me. The distinction provided by this one word is a result of social judgment, with agreement given by the act of parking.
Acceptance of the benefts acts to focus on the negative aspects of our circumstances. The conditions that created the circumstances are the result of what we have done to ourselves and what others have done to us.
Public disclosure and demand for accountability create discomfort.
To avoid discomfort, “The Process” ofers denial. Simply change the name of the problem, and it no longer exists. Having ofered renaming as a means to avoid accountability, “The Process” accepts the newly formed identity as an achievement and moves on to other matters. Accordingly, “The Process” is adopted as a meaningful procedure for problem-solving.
Things have changed. Suddenly, without any cost, in any form, a particular event has become acceptable by simple redefnition. Was it problem resolution by defnition alone?
This is the Moment of Truth.
Self-interest has replaced concern for the common good. That change invites and promotes the use of the term DISABLED in any discussion relating to government.
William (Bill) Campbell Conner
Endorsement for Forstag
I wholeheartedly endorse Sam Forstag for the Western Montana US House seat. As a dedicated working man, former smokejumper, and union leader, Sam is committed to advocating for a living wage, the right to organize, and afordable healthcare for all Montanans. Unlike other candidates who rely on empty slogans, Sam presents concrete plans to enhance labor laws and safeguard collective bargaining rights. He champions a $15 minimum wage linked to infation, pension protections, and the closure of the “private contractor” loophole that enables corporate exploitation of workers. With 32 endorsements from Montana legislators, including four from Republicans, Sam’s impressive legislative experience speaks volumes. He has also garnered signifcant support from unions such as the AFL-CIO, SEIU, NFFE, and Firefghters.
Sam Forstag is not beholden to corporate interests or wealthy donors. He will bring a much needed fresh perspective to Congress. We don’t need more millionaires in Congress. It’s time to elect a true working-class Montanan who genuinely understands the challenges faced by everyday people in our State. I urge you to support Sam Forstag with your vote!
Karen Wickersham Missoula
The hidden public health costs of data centers
When most of us think about climate change and public health in Montana, we think of wildfre smoke, drought, or rising temperatures. But another issue is quietly entering the conversation: data centers.
Data centers are the physical backbone of the internet, massive warehouses flled with computers that power everything from streaming video to artifcial intelligence. As demand for AI and cloud computing grows, companies are searching for new places to build these facilities.
Montana is no exception.
At frst glance, data centers may seem like a clean industry. They don’t have smokestacks or tailpipes. But their impacts on climate and public health are real.
Researchers estimate that data centers already account for more than 4% of total U.S. electricity consumption and generate over 100 million tons of carbon emissions annually. Electricity demand is expected to rise rapidly as artifcial intelligence expands, potentially doubling or tripling energy use in the coming years.
That energy has to come from somewhere. When it comes from fossil fuels, the result is more air pollution, pollution that contributes to asthma, heart disease, and premature death. One national study estimated that air pollution linked to data centers caused more than $5 billion in public-health costs in the United States between 2019 and 2023.
Montana faces another concern: water.
Many large data centers rely on water-based cooling systems to keep servers from overheating. A single large facility can consume up to 3–5 million gallons of water per day, enough to compete with agriculture, fsheries, and municipal supplies. Some estimates suggest this amount of water could supply a town of tens of thousands of people.
In a state where drought cycles, irrigation demands, and river fows already shape livelihoods, that level of water use is not trivial.
Proposals and negotiations involving new
The Bitterroot Star is a team of caring individuals who ethically and responsibly strive to deliver essential news and
data centers are already underway in Montana, with utilities exploring agreements to supply large quantities of electricity to facilities in places like Butte and Yellowstone County. At the same time, Montana currently has few regulations limiting energy or water use by data centers, leaving communities to weigh risks and benefts largely on their own. For health professionals, the connection is clear. Climate change and environmental degradation are not separate from human health; they are drivers of it. Increased air pollution worsens respiratory illness. Water stress afects agriculture and food security. Heat and smoke strain hospitals and rural clinics already operating at capacity.
Public health has always been about prevention, acting before harm becomes widespread. That principle applies here as well. Communities and policymakers can ask reasonable questions: Where will the electricity come from? How much water will be used? Who bears the health and infrastructure costs?
Montana has an opportunity to ask these questions now, before large-scale development locks in decades of consequences. Once a facility is built and connected to the grid, its footprint is not easily undone.
The internet may feel intangible, but its infrastructure is not. It runs on water, energy, and land, resources that Montanans depend on every day. The choices we make today will shape not only our environment but also our health for years to come.
We are members of MT Health Professionals for a Healthy Climate https://www. montanahphc.org, an organization of health professionals in the state, working together to address climate change as a public health issue, because the climate crisis threatens the health and future of our communities.
The hard work of addressing afordability
Nearly every politician these days has affordability as a plank in their campaign platform. However, that position is meaningless unless realistic and meaningful solutions are pursued. While capitalism is still the best option for America, constraints are required in order to make capitalism work for all Americans. Those constraints are typically regulations and a progressive tax structure. Here’s the rub. Republican politicians insist on a wide open market driven economy without constraints. They don’t want to limit in any way someone or some company from turning a buck even if doing so harms the less fortunate. Often, they spout they don’t want to be involved in picking winners and losers.
But, if our politicians don’t get in the game and referee winners and losers, then the afordability gap will continue to grow until America collapses. Real and efective solutions involving regulating big business and adjusting tax structures are required if we have any hope of turning this K shaped economy around.
Antitrust regulations handled by the Federal Trade Commission are necessary to break up monopolies that exist in meat packing, grocery outlets, and agri-business to provide more competition that forces lower prices.
Local, state, and federal tax laws need to change to discourage private equity companies from buying up single family homes, mobile home parks, hospitals, and just about everything they can get their fngers in to.
Are we content with the status quo of just enabling the rich to get richer and letting the chips fall where they may for everyone else, or are we as a nation ready to do the hard work of really addressing afordability?
Steve Schmidt Darby
people of the Bitterroot Valley. If you have a story idea, or any other concern, call us at 406-777-3928, email: editor@bitterrootstar.com or stop in at our ofce at 115 W. 3rd, #108, Stevensville. The mailing address is P.O. Box 133, Stevensville MT 59870. Correction Policy Accuracy is important to us. If you see a factual error in a Bitterroot Star news story, please notify the editor immediately and we will print a correction in the next issue. Our View/Letters
Bitterroot Star editorials are written from the position of the newspaper. The personal columns and letters appearing on the Opinion page and elsewhere in the paper represent the opinion of single individuals and do not necessarily refect the position of the newspaper. The Star welcomes public comment and encourages letters to the editor. Letters on local topics or issues are given priority for publication. Letters should be 450 words or less. Shorter letters generally have a better chance of prompt publication. While letters expressing appreciation for a specifc, out-of-the-ordinary action are welcomed, letters with lists of names of contributors, donors or volunteers are not accepted as letters to the editor. Author’s name, address and phone number (for verifcation, not publication) are required. We do not run letters anonymously. We attempt to run all letters, but reserve the right to edit for length, accuracy, clarity, content and libel. We ask that writers email letters to us, and do not turn them in by hand. This increases the chances the letters will get printed. Our staf already has a full workload.
Julia Ryder RN, Bozeman Anita Taylor MD, Helena Lori Byron MD, Red Lodge Haley Yarborough, Missoula
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