Second Annual BBQ Rib Cook-of
The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office is hosting their second annual Rib Cook-Off fundraising event this coming Saturday October 18 at the Bedford Building in Hamilton. The event will take place from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., and includes entertainment by Shodown,
a live auction and a raffle. Competitors will be battling it out in both pork and beef rib categories, with a $500 cash prize for the first place winners.
All funds raised will support the “Shop with a Cop” program which gives kids from Sula to
Florence an opportunity to spend a day Christmas shopping with Law Enforcement, and most importantly building a positive relationship with the Deputies and Officers that serve in their schools and communities.
Tickets are available to pur -
chase in advance at the Front Desk at the Sheriff’s Office for $10.00, or at the door on the night of the event. There is still time to enter. For an entry form and rules and regulations please contact Kristin at kkruse@rc.mt.gov or 406-4997522.
Marine Corps Ball to be held in Hamilton
Marine Corps celebrates 250 years of service
If you have ever attended a Marine Corps Ball, or attend this year’s Marine Corps Ball, you’ll hear 13th USMC Commandant General John A. Lejeune’s Birthday Message, a directive he wrote on November 1st, 1921, that formally established that every command in the Marine Corps shall celebrate its birthday. The practice started in the late 18th century in its many forms of sobriety, and Lejeune codifed it.
The Ravalli County Veterans of Foreign Wars is continuing the tradition with the Marine Corps Ball celebration at the Bitterroot River Inn
on Saturday, November 1. If you served in the Marines, have a relative that served in the Marines, served in any branch, or want to support one of our Armed Forces’ birthdays, you should attend the Ball.
The US Army began celebrating its birthday only 84 years ago, the Navy didn’t establish a birthday until 1972, under the direction of Admiral Zumwalt, the Air Force began in 1947, and the Coast Guard started in 1915. But nobody does it like the Marines— they set the standard— this regal celebration is worth witnessing.
This black tie event is the one premier military celebration of the year. The community came out last year to honor our nation and Marine Corps in large numbers. This year is a milestone, the 250th year of our armed forces.
VFW Commander Matt Walker said, “I’m not a Marine, but I wouldn’t miss it for anything. It is the most patriotic event we participate in all year.”
Horns, Fins, and Feathers is catering the meal and several local businesses are supporting this event
Large predator relocation notifcation law goes into efect
When Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks relocates a large predator it is required to communicate this to local and tribal governments under a new law that went into effect Oct. 1.
In anticipation of this law, earlier this summer FWP began informing county sheriffs, county commissioners and tribal governments within the county or tribal government boundaries where a large predator is relocated.
The new law requires that notification take place within 24 hours of the capture of a large predator if it will be relocated into a county or tribal government boundary other than the one it was captured in.
“Communication with local governments is critical in ensuring a broad under -
standing of what we do for wildlife management,” said FWP Director Christy Clark. “We welcomed this new law and met its requirement well before it took effect.”
In Montana, large predators are mountain lions, wolves and bears. FWP doesn’t relocate mountain lions or wolves but commonly relocates bears –both black and grizzly.
For years, FWP has published bear relocations on its website. This summer, it launched a dashboard with black and grizzly bear relocations. This tool is in addition to directly notifying local governments. For more information on bear relocations, go online to the FWP website.
that is keeping alive a long tradition. A tradition that began in a small Philadelphia tavern by Continental Congress representatives from New England at the behest of a certain
Continental General named George Washington. From Tun Tavern in 1775 to the Bitterroot River Inn in 2025, an American story worth celebrating.
Marines D. Zinkowich, D. Scott, P. Smothers and R. Parks.
Continued from page 1
live smallpox vaccine, a few medical instruments, tools and medical and architecture books. He used his live smallpox vaccine to vaccinate the Salish. Later when a smallpox epidemic broke out among the Nez Perce tribe, who feared vaccination, Father Ravalli gained even more credibility since the Salish had not succumbed to the disease. Father Ravalli started Montana’s frst pharmacy and bottles containing his original tinctures are on view at his pharmacy on the Mission grounds. He performed life saving amputations and always refused payment. The stretcher he built is on view at the Mission Museum. Between his duties as priest, physician, surgeon, pharmacist and teacher, he found time to create what is now a Montana masterpiece. It is inside the tiny jewel, St. Mary’s Chapel, that visitors can see Father Ravalli’s true genius. To complete the chapel, Father Ravalli masterfully carved a wooden cross to rest on top of the red dome. The cross with fligree at its center and perfect proportions stood against the Montana Big Sky for 137 years. Due to deterioration from the elements, Father Ravalli’s original cross is now preserved in a case inside the chapel backed with blue velvet from Ferrara. Bill Taggart of Corvallis perfectly replicated the new cross in
HUGE ESTATE SALE
LOCATION: Darby, Hwy 93
*About 2 miles south of town.
2003. Today the name Ravalli lives on in our county as banks and businesses take his name. With miles and miles between Ferrara, Italy and Stevensville, Montana, Antonio Ravalli, “Leonardo of the Rockies,” could surely relate to the words of beloved American poet, Robert Frost, “...But I have promises to keep, and miles to go before I sleep.”
In 2004, Sondra Nishkian Sieg (Sandy) and her husband James successfully located the Ravalli family in Ferrara. At the Siegs’ invitation, Carlo and Cristina Ravalli visited Stevensville in 2005.
Gander ● M ● 3 years
Meet Gander. He drove all the way from Texas to be here. He is a three-year-old mixed breed who is fully grown at just 35 lbs. He enjoys playing with other dogs, but cats are not his friend. Gander is a very sweet boy who would love to be your new buddy!
Inside the St. Mary’s Mission chapel, designed by Father Ravalli. Photo courtesy Montana Historical Society.
2025 Stevensville Ward 1 candidate profles
Two candidates are running for the position of Stevensville Town Council member for Ward 1. Incumbent Stacie Barker is vying to stay on the council against newcommerMelissa Bailey. The election will be by mail-in ballot with ballots sent out to reg -
istered voters on October 17. They need to be returned to the Ravalli County Election Administrator, 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton
MT 59840, no later than November 4 by 8 p.m.
The following are profiles written by the two candidates.
Melissa Bailey Stacie Barker
My name is Melissa Bailey, and I’m running to represent Ward 1 on the Stevensville Town Council.
I grew up on a farm in Northern California—yes, I’m originally a Californian, and I know that can be a bit of a faux pas, but that experience shaped who I am today. I watched my small farming town, once known for its cornfelds and close-knit community, slowly transform into something unrecognizable. As the felds gave way to concrete and development, the small-town values I cherished slowly disappeared. That experience taught me how quickly a town can change and how important it is to protect what makes a community special.
My sister and I began the search for a town much like the one we remember as children. On a road trip, we stopped for gas in Missoula, and in the time it took to go from E to F, we both knew Montana was home. We immediately recognized Stevensville for its sense of community, its values and its way of life. I want to ensure that any changes that are made in this town are thoughtful, measured and in the best interest of the people who live here.
I hold a Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Communications. Over the
in creating and upholding policies and procedures in complex systems. My background gives me the skills to listen carefully, evaluate issues objectively and advocate efectively on behalf of others.
Having lived in other states, I bring a unique perspective—one shaped not only by my experiences, but also by my commitment to never lose sight of the importance of small-town values. I’ve seen what can happen when those values are ignored.
If elected, I will:
• Champion transparency and communication at town hall meetings
• Encourage community involvement and welcome public input on local issues
• Reevaluate and prioritize a review of our current water rates
• Represent Ward 1 with integrity, ensuring that every voice is heard and respected
I’m running because I love Stevensville. I’m proud to live in a town where people still look out for one another, where neighbors know each other by name, and where the same values that shaped my own upbringing can still be found. I want to help preserve that for generations to come.
I would be honored to earn your
Christmas Bazaar
My name is Stacie Barker. I was born in Missoula and raised in Florence, Montana. I’m proud to say that I’m a native to the Bitterroot Valley with several generations of family that still reside here in the Stevensville area, as well as many other locations here in the valley. I made Stevensville my home in 1989, where I married my husband and later had two boys which we have raised here as well. I feel that I have long time roots here in Stevensville. I have worked at a few businesses in town while raising a family. I worked as a waitress at one of the local restaurants and two of the local grocery stores, holding as many as three jobs at one time. I can say this was a way for me to get to know my community through my years of customer service.
I have found that giving back to the community is huge. I volunteered my time with many of the local organizations from Cub Scouts, Boy Scouts of America, Civic Club past volunteers and the Stevensville Farmers Market and other local volunteering when called upon to help.
The reason that I’m running for the council is I have a desire to serve the better of the community to the fullest. I feel that the community needs someone who is strong willed and who will do right for the needs of the town. I feel that I know a lot of the history behind Stevensville in many aspects. I see a future for Stevensville and in which we can move forward in a positive direction but, we all need to come together. I’m an open book with clear transparency. I’m willing to listen to what the community wants and needs for our town. I always say, “If you don’t voice your wants or needs then how do we know how to move forward and make this a better community to live in.” I would like to see our town move forward in a more positive way and look to the future for families that come to Stevensville where they can call this their home. I see many challenges that our town faces today. From the aging infrastructure of water and sewer
systems to our streets, sidewalks and parks. These are things that we can set goals towards to make changes for the future.
My goals for Stevensville are to see our town acquire its water rights and to see our growth policy updated. As well as improvements to the town infrastructure. I feel that it’s important to see these things in place so that maybe someday down the road we will be able to build and support more growth for future families. I feel that bringing affordable housing to Stevensville could be a huge asset to the town’s growth. Some of my experiences that I bring to the table are being involved with the community. In 2015 I started getting involved with the local government. I ran for the position of Town Council Member in 2015 and was elected in 2016. In late 2019 I stepped down from my position due to prior mayoral issues and felt it was a concern for the town. I still felt that there was a need for me to serve my community. I ran again in 2021 where I won my seat on the Stevensville Town Council for another four years. I have gone to several of the local government trainings and conferences that are ofered yearly which has helped me today in my current position as a council member. I strive to keep myself up to date on local issues that we face on a daily basis and bring them back to the table for discussion. I know that not all decisions are liked or what the fnal outcome is, but I do what I feel the community would like me to do and what is best for them. If elected I would see that funds are set aside for capital improvements for the water and sewer systems. Also making the much needed updates to our streets, sidewalks and parks and working toward a sustainable future for the residents of Stevensville. As well as working on grant opportunities towards equipment improvements for the town. I would like to thank the community for all the support that they have given me and I hope to serve you in the coming future.
Voter’s remorse
Many voters who cast their lot with Donald Trump in the recent election are sufering voter’s remorse, a condition caused by actions taken that they now regret. But take heart… listen to what Thomas Jeferson our third President, in an AI generated letter, said, in part, to Donald Trump. From the social media forum, the “Thread”… “In closing, I do not write to condemn, but to call to refection. The American experiment is fragile and sacred. Its success depends not on the glory of its leaders but on their virtue, restraint, and devotion to the public good. It is not too late, sir, to shape your legacy toward unity, to temper ambition with humility, and to remind the people that government must serve truth before it can serve greatness.” To reinforce this message with President Trump, join the “NO KINGS” Rally taking place at the intersection of Main Street and Highway 93 in Hamilton on Saturday, October 18 from 10:30 to Noon.
Tom Tunny Hamilton
I grieve for America
I grieve for the America that I was once proud of: A thriving democracy. A moral leader respected by nations around the world. A country whose Supreme Court and Congress acted on their constitutional mandate to serve as separate, balancing powers to the executive branch. A nation where immigrants who committed only the civil violation of being here without authorization were not rounded up and deported to dangerous countries as criminals -- without due process -- regardless of sometimes years of contributions to their local communities. A nation that did not choose to budget $170 billion to support masked men enforcing this inhumane immigration policy.
I grieve for American leadership who once funded critical scientifc and medical research at NIH, CDC, and universities, not advocating changes in medical policy based on suspect evidence. I mourn for a nation in which the President’s stated primary mission, regardless of political party, was to improve the overall well-being of all Americans, not to admittedly seek revenge against political opposition. I miss the America in which we were not learning almost every day about another unconstitutional presidential power grab to address false national emergencies. I also mourn for our nation whose leaders did not threaten the free speech of political opponents and comedians, and perhaps next, of the rest of us. And for an America that did not encourage the rewriting of history to make the lives of enslaved human beings sound good.
Yes, I grieve for the America that we seem to be losing. Will we stand by and watch as inch by inch -- for now -the powers that be replace democracy with authoritarianism?
I pray that we stand up for our beloved American constitutional democracy before we lose it completely. Chris Love Corvallis
Liberals have lost their minds
The liberals have lost their minds – at least that’s my opinion of the current national political climate. It seems clear that no matter what President Trump does, the liberals will fnd
Opinion
something negative to say about it. Recent letters to the editor in the Star seem to support this opinion.
President Trump just announced an end to the Israel/Hamas war yesterday, and the liberals are accusing him of being Hitler and have a “No Kings Day” demonstration being planned. President Trump was able to close our borders within a matter of days after taking ofce, and he gets accused of being insensitive to the needs of humanity. He makes great strides in leveling the tarif playing feld, and he gets accused of ruining our economy even though jobs and companies are fowing back into our country, and foreign investments are in the trillions of dollars. Oh, and the stock market is at an all-time high.
Since a number of “blue” city and state politicians have demonstrated an inability to get crime under control in their city/state, he has started taking action by sending in federal ofcers and in some cases, the National Guard, to fnd and arrest the worst of the criminals, many of whom are illegal aliens. I would think that as law-abiding citizens we would all be in favor of that, but no, he is again being accused of a multitude of stupid things. What the heck is the matter with these people who can’t see the positive result of reducing crime?
How about the recent assassination of Charlie Kirk – one of our local writers was upset about the funeral event where thousands attended in person and millions watched on TV, AND it was entirely peaceful. Please think back to when George Floyd died – the radical left held riots in numerous cities causing billions of dollars in damage and many deaths.
As other writers have noted and questioned, the Democrat party seems to have drifted to the far left with a lack of leadership. The shift toward Socialism/Communism has this writer extremely worried. One of the reasons given for our participation in the Korean and Vietnam wars was to stop the spread of Communism. Yikes! We have a Communist as the Democratic candidate front-runner in the current New York Mayor race. If you think Socialism/Communism is a good thing, take a close look at Cuba and Venezuela.
Finally, I will end this letter with pointing out that some of the liberal folks continue to push for allowing boys to participate in girls sports.
Jerry Esmay Stevensville Montanans don’t need lectures on responsibility
Montanans don’t need lectures from Washington—or even from our own state legislators—about “responsibility.” We’ve written the book on it. We fx our own fences, shovel our own snow, and help our neighbors before the government even knows there’s a problem.
And we expect our legislators to allow us to exercise our Constitutional rights without obstruction from them, Helena bureaucrats, or other statewide politicians who forget and ignore the people they’re supposed to serve.
The Founding Fathers anticipated this blockage from state legislators and congress. They understood that corruption, negligence, and overreach could creep into our government. That’s why they gave the states and “we the people” a tool to rein in a run-
away federal government: Article V of the U.S. Constitution. Here’s why that short, simple article is so important for Montanans. According to the GAO – (Government Accountability Ofce), Congress has accumulated $34 trillion in debt—more than $100,000 for every American.
If a Montana rancher, a café owner, or a small business ran their fnances this way, they’d be bankrupt—or in court.
Congress lectures us about fscal responsibility while expanding spending unchecked and then goes on vacation! Our legislators write bills that are astronomically costly to us. So what do we do about both groups?
Article V is the tool we need to restore balance and accountability and get the attention of congress and recall procedures is what we use for our own state legislators.
If two-thirds of state legislatures call for it, states can propose constitutional amendments. Then, nothing becomes law unless three-fourths of states ratify it. The bar is intentionally high, ensuring the process cannot be hijacked by political opportunists or rogue delegates.
The “commissioners” (or delegates as they are called today) also must sign an oath of commission (OC) and if they try any nonsense, they can be fned, and even jailed as the OC is a matter of “common law.”
The reforms Montana needs - 1) Term limits for Congress – Career politicians should not treat Washington as a retirement home. New leadership brings accountability; 2) Spending restraints – Congress should live within its means, just like Montana families do; 3) Limits on federal power – Unelected bureaucrats should not dictate local education, land use, medical jabs that killed thousands or energy policy.
These aren’t radical ideas—they refect Montana values: accountability, honesty, hard work, and common sense.
Some opponents claim Article V conventions are “dangerous” or that rights like the Second Amendment could be at risk. These claims ignore the Constitution’s checks and balances and the historical context of Article V.
Every amendment must be approved by three-fourths of states, making frivolous or extreme changes virtually impossible. Fear-mongering is no substitute for knowledge and understanding. Don’t let yourself be mesmerized by fear or emotion. Use your common sense to ask yourself this question: why would the founders put something that is harmful to future generations into the Constitution? YEAH - they wouldn’t and didn’t. So tell those spreading disinformation about the Constitution to go for a walk in your cow pasture in their bare feet.
Some politicians, and special interests proft from chaos and status quo. Career bureaucrats, lobbyists, and opportunistic national and state legislators resist reforms that would hold them accountable. Montana cannot and will not wait for permission to do the right thing.
Nineteen states have already passed the Convention of States Resolution. We need 34. Montana could be number 20. This is our chance to lead, to restore balance, and to remind the country what liberty looks like under the Big Sky.
Action steps for Montanans - 1) Learn more: https://articlevinfocenter.com; 2) Sign the petition: https://conventionofstates.com/sign_
the_petition/; 3) Call your legislators and tell them to defend the Constitution as they swear to do and pass the Article V resolution in 2027. Montana doesn’t wait for someone else to lead. We are the someone else. Let’s saddle up and use the tools the Founders gave us. The time to act is now.
Helen Sabin Corvallis
‘Where’s Waldo?’
I traveled to Spokane this past weekend and purchased gas in both WA and ID; and then yesterday at Missoula Costco. On 9/28, gas was $4.179/gL in Greenacres, WA, and on 09/29, $3.359/gL at Costco in CDA, ID. Our Costco in Missoula had pricing at $ 2.999 yesterday, 09/30. Here lies my confusion. I heard the current president say countless times HE brought gas prices down to $1.98. (Without getting too far in the weeds of fact, any president has very little control of gas prices. The futures market is complex, and oil is a commodity traded on the futures market.) But here is my point, family and friends from many states have never seen gas as low as the magical $1.98 in recent times; and fact checking reveals that as of 09/30, the average lowest price was Oklahoma at $2.650 followed closely by MS, TX, AL, AR, IA, GA, LA, TN in the $2.70’s. This was no mistake. His words are LIES! This is a small example. I want to cry every time I check out at the grocery store! “End infation and make America afordable”? “End the weaponization of government”? “Protect Social Security and Medicare with no cuts or change in age requirement”? Despite what you hear—especially from government run media—our government is SHUT DOWN BECAUSE DEMOCRATS WOULD NOT ALLOW INCREASES IN HEALTHCARE COVERAGE OF THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS ANNUALLY AND ELMINATION OF THE AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE ACT. The budget-- as in the “Big Beautiful Bill”-- is anything but beautiful and is devastating for working families. Passing the “budget” includes the worst of consequences-- including closure of rural hospitals and clinics. During Trump 1, he promised to release the “new, beautiful, health care bill” in 2 WEEKS! The Afordable Care Act was passed in March 2010. Since that time, there have been multiple attempts to eliminate it without ANY plan to replace or reform it for the good of the people. Those who want to repeal it have had 15 years with NOTHING to show for it!
You don’t have to have 40 years of health care experience to know what gross mental impairment looks and sounds like. Make no mistake, the USA is the laughing stock of the world. I took an oath to uphold the United States constitution and I know what I said! So has the president and all his unqualifed, unexperienced, fawning devotees devoid of moral clarity. WAKE UP PEOPLE AND SEE THE LIGHT! Otherwise, you will be sorely disenchanted when you can’t escape what you signed up for—especially if you are receiving SS and Medicare benefts!
Brenda Allington Florence
Beneft planned for Jennifer French
Jennifer French is a special needs paraprofessional in Stevensville who has been married to her husband for 23 years with two beloved daughters. She is facing the fght of her life as a diabetes diagnosis she has lived with since age 9 has culminated in kidney failure and the urgent need for a life-saving kidney transplant.
For the past four years, Jennifer’s enthusiastic participation in gardening, fshing, cooking, and a one-ofa-kind hobby (dirt collecting from around the world!) has diminished due to her diagnosis and the associated symptoms.
Despite the exhaustion and medical challenges she faces, friends say “Jennifer continues to radiate positivity and bring sunshine wherever she goes.”
Known lovingly as “Momma Jen” to many people reaching far beyond her own family, Jennifer is now forced to fundraise to make a transplant fnancially possible. Jennifer’s next step and her hope for a healthy future depend on a life-saving kidney transplant in Aurora, Colorado. She will experience a 6- to 8-week required medical relocation for the transplant.
That relocation cost is not covered by insurance, leaving Jennifer and her family with an urgent need for fnancial help from their community. That’s
why she turned to the nonproft Help Hope Live to start fundraising. Contributions to Help Hope Live in Jennifer’s honor will fuel the hope that her sunshine can continue to impact the lives of others for years to come.
Donations to Help Hope Live are tax deductible to the extent allowed by law, and all funds raised will be administered by the nonproft to cover verifed medical and related expenses. Help Hope Live verifes medical and fnancial need for every patient. Donations can be made at: https://helphopelive.org/campaign/26149/
In addition to the online fundraising, a beneft for Jennifer will be held on Sunday, October 19 at the Stevensville School Cafeteria, 300 Park, Stevensville, where attendees can dine & bid for a cause. Dinner will be served at 5 p.m. with silent auction from 5 to 6:30 p.m. and a live auction at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per person or $20 per family. Pay at the door (cash, check, or Venmo). For more information call Elizabeth at 406-381-7076 or Angie at 406-546-5481.
All funds raised will be administered by Help Hope Live. Help Hope Live is a national nonproft that specializes in engaging communities in secure, tax-deductible fundraising campaigns for people who need a
transplant or are afected by a catastrophic injury or illness. Since 1983, campaigns organized by Help Hope
Stockman Bank offers help to federal employees
On October 8, 2025, Stockman Bank implemented a plan to assist federal employees impacted by the government shutdown. This includes furloughed employees who are not working, essential employees who are currently working without pay and members of the military.
“We recognize the stress a government shutdown creates for workers who still have bills to pay,” said Bill Cofee, Stockman Bank CEO. “We are happy to make accommodations for impacted federal employees to help reduce this stress and protect their credit.”
Until the shutdown ends, Cofee said Stockman is ofering to defer loan payments that are due. Then, post shutdown, the bank will restructure debt for borrowers as necessary. Stockman will also work with commercial customers directly impacted by the shutdown on a case-
by-case basis. Customers impacted by the shutdown are encouraged to contact their local Stockman Bank for assistance.
Stockman Bank is Montana’s largest, family-owned, community bank, with convenient full-service locations across the state. Founded in 1953, Stockman remains uniquely focused on Montana, with comprehensive banking products and services, along with state-of-the-art online and mobile banking, wealth management and insurance services.
To learn more, visit www. stockmanbank.com.
Live have raised over $193 million to pay patient expenses, assisting more than 25,000 patient families.
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
State soccer begins for Hamilton & Stevi
The Class A soccer state playoffs are set to start on Saturday, Oct. 18, as regular season play ended last week. The boys and girls soccer teams from both Hamilton and Stevensville qualified for the state tournament.
There are three divisions in Class A soccer: the North, the South and the East. The Bitterroot Valley soccer teams are all in the South. The top three conference finishers from the South qualified for the state tournament this year. Hamilton girls c onference champs
Th e Hamilton girls won the South conference championship, their 7-1-2 conference record was just ahead of the Stevensville girls. Hamilton hosts Lone Peak, the 3rd seed from the East, on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 11 a.m. in their first round state playoff game.
The Stevensville girls finished with a 6-1-3 conference record and took 2nd place. In their first round state playoff game, the Stevensville girls go on the road and play at either Bigfork or Whitefish on Saturday, Oct. 18th.
The Hamilton boys had a 5-1-2 conference record and took 2nd in the South. In their first round state playoff game, the Broncs travel to play either Whitefish or Bigfork on Saturday, Oct. 18.
The Stevensville boys had a 5-2-1 conference record and took 3rd in the South. The Stevensville boys play at Billings Central on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 10 a.m. Billings Central is the East’s top seed and defending state champion. Stevensville at Hamilton
T he boys and girls soccer teams from Hamilton hosted Stevensville on Tuesday, Oct. 7. These games proved pivotal for how the teams finished in the conference standings.
The boys game was tied 0-0 at halftime. Then with 34 minutes to play in the game, Hamilton’s Tim Sigloch curled a shot in the corner of the net to give Hamilton a 1-0 lead. Then, 12 minutes later, Sigloch once again found the back of the net to put Hamilton up 2-0. Stevensville’s Konsti Parshin scored with seven minutes left to trim Hamilton’s lead to 2-1, but neither team scored again and the game ended with Hamilton winning 2-1.
The girls game was a close contest between evenly matched teams and it ended in a 0-0 tie. The two teams also tied the first time they played in September.
Falcons tame #6 Lions
The Florence football team is on a roll. After three early season non-conference losses to #2 Manhattan, #4 Three Forks and Class A #3 Frenchtown (rankings from 406mtsports.com), the Falcons have now won three straight conference games by a total of 151-12. The most recent win a 34-6 thumping of then #6 Eureka Lions on Friday, Oct. 10 in Florence.
Pundits picked Eureka as the odds-on favorite to win, but someone forgot to tell Florence they were underdogs, as the Falcons dominated the Lions from start to fnish. The win puts the rest of the state on notice that the Falcons are still a team to be reckoned with.
On Thursday, Oct. 9, the Stevensville girls and boys hosted Frenchtown. The Stevensville boys won 8-1. For Stevensville, Jakob Wenck had three goals, Christian Yaskus and Konsti Parshin each had two goals, and Jacob Shobe added a goal.
The Stevensville girls won 5-1. For Stevensville, Madigan Hurlbert and Addi Nobi each had two goals, and Deci Endres had a goal.
Corvallis soccer season ends
T he Corvallis boys and girls soccer teams host -
ed Polson on Thursday, Oct. 9. The Corvallis boys lost 1-3, and the Corvallis girls won 2-1. Then on Saturday, Oct. 11, the girls hosted Loyola and lost 2-4.
The Corvallis boys and girls soccer seasons ended with these games, as neither team qualified for the Class A State tournament. Corvallis’s boys and girls teams were very young this year and many underclassmen played significant minutes. Expect both the boys and girls teams to return strong next season.
Valley football scores
Florence jumped out to a 14-0 frst quarter lead with two Brody Duchien TD passes. The frst a 27-yard strike to Tash Murray and the second a pass to Levi Winters. Winters took a short screen pass and scampered 82 yards for the TD. In the second quarter, Duchien connected with Murray again, this time for a 55-yard TD to give Florence a 21-0 halftime lead. The onslaught continued in the second half as Mattix Chase rushed for a 23-yard TD, and Bridger Alexander added a 7-yard TD run to bring the score to 34-6. Florence QB Brody Duchien, who started the season as a receiver, is fnding his groove and completed 14 of 19 passes for 287 yards and three TDs. RB Mattix Chase had 8 carries for 95 yards and a TD. WR Tash Murray had 6 catches for 115 yards and 2 TDs, and WR Levi Winters had 3 catches for 118 yards and a TD.
Florence’s defense was dominant, allowing only one TD and holding a strong Eureka team to under 300 yards total ofense.
Florence is now 3-3 on the season and 3-0 in conference. Florence’s next game is against a solid Anaconda squad who is 5-2 on the season. Kickof is at 7 p.m. on Friday, October 17 in Anaconda.
Corvallis bedevils Stevensville
The Corvallis football team hosted their northern neighbor Stevensville on Friday, Oct. 10, for the
Blue Devils’s Homecoming game. It was a spirited and hard-hitting contest, but Corvallis had a little more frepower and defeated Stevensville 42-12, earning the Blue Devils their frst win of the 2025 season.
Corvallis led 6-0 after the frst quarter, then exploded in the second quarter, scoring four TDs to take a 35-6 halftime lead. The two teams traded second half TDs, and the game ended with Corvallis winning 42-12.
Corvallis’s Ayden Spencer had a big game, the junior had four rushing TDs and gained 164 yards of total ofense. Spencer also had two interceptions and forced a fumble on defense.
Corvallis’s Caleb Johansen had a 8-yard TD run, and Ayden Emerson intercepted a pass and rumbled 72 yards for a TD. Kade Bowles led Corvallis with 14 total tackles.
For Stevensville, QB Luca Schmidt threw a 14-yard TD pass to David Laufenberg. Schmidt also had a 2-yard rushing TD.
“I’m super proud of our players and their ability to make adjustments tonight,” said Corvallis Head Coach Josh McCrossin. “Stevi played hard and our players competed well through all four quarters to get the outcome we’ve been looking for throughout the season. As a team we’ll celebrate the good win tonight, but then we’re back to work this weekend to get ready for our next game against Frenchtown.”
Corvallis is now 1-5 on the season and travels to Frenchtown (6-1) on Friday, Oct. 17 to play the #3 ranked Broncs at 7 p.m.
Stevensville is now 1-6 on the season and hosts Dillon (1-5) on Friday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m.
Hamilton’s Ellie Hughes fghts for the ball. The Hamilton girls soccer team won the 2025 South conference championship. They host Lone Peak on Saturday, Oct. 18 in their frst round state playoff game. Photo by Scott Sacry
Corvallis’s Ayden Spencer had a big game in Corvallis’s 42-12 victory over Stevensville on Friday, Oct. 10. Spencer had four rushing TDs and gained 164 yards of total offense. Photo by Scott Sacry
Sports
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
2025 Blocktober Classic
The volleyball teams from Hamilton, Florence and Stevensville traveled to Butte on Friday, Oct. 10, and Saturday, Oct. 11, to play in the 2025 Blocktober Classic. Kudos to Butte for coming up with a clever name for the tournament.
The annual Blocktober Classic included 25 Montana volleyball teams (mostly Class A, but some Class B). The teams were divided into three pools and on Friday teams played other teams within their pool for one game to 25 points.
Then based on their record in pool play, teams were funneled into three Saturday brackets. The top teams went to the Championship Bracket, the middle teams went to the Consolation Bracket and the lower teams went into the Copper Bracket.
Teams then played three-set matches within each bracket in a double elimination mini-tournament to crown the top four places in each bracket.
Hamilton Hamilton continues to prove they’re one of the top Class A volleyball teams in the state. The Broncs went 7-0 and took frst place in pool play on Friday. This sent them to the Championship Bracket on Saturday where they fnished in 3rd place.
In their opening game in bracket play, they lost to Florence 1-2 (25-20, 12-25, 14-16), this sent them to the loser’s side of the bracket where they defeated Jeferson 2-1 (25-22, 15-25,
15-10), then defeated Frenchtown 2-0 (25-20, 25-23), and fnally in the consolation game, they defeated Florence 2-1 (21-25, 25-22, 15-9).
Florence
Florence did exceptionally well considering they were one of the few Class B teams at the tournament. The Falcons went 6-2 and fnished 3rd in pool play on Friday. This sent them to the Championship Bracket on Saturday, where they took 4th place overall.
In the frst round of bracket play, they defeated Fergus 2-0 (25-18, 25-23), then they defeated Hamilton 2-1 (20-25, 25-12, 16-14), then they lost their semifnal game to Havre 1-2 (24-26, 25-17, 10-15), this sent them to the losers bracket where they defeated Bigfork 2-0 (25-19, 25-23). Finally, they played Hamilton again in the consolation game and Florence lost in a tough match 1-2 (25-21, 22-25, 9-15) and took 4th.
Earlier in the week, on Tuesday, Oct. 7, Florence hosted Darby and won 3-0 (25-10, 25-9, 25-8). For Florence, Dia Jenkins and Reese Briney each had 4 aces, Taylor Pyette had 4 aces and 8 digs, Emory Ralston had 17 kills, Maggie Schneiter had 15 assists, and Alex Nelson and Kendyl Meinhold each had a block.
Then on Thursday, Oct. 9, Florence hosted Arlee and won 3-0 (25-0, 2516, 25-3). For Florence, Dia Jenkins had 11 aces, Emory Ralston had 15 kills, Maggie Schneiter had 17 assists, and Taylor Pyette had 12 digs.
Stevensville
The Stevensville girls went 1-6 and took 8th in pool play on Friday in Butte. This sent them to the Copper Bracket on Saturday, where they took 2nd place. In the Copper Bracket, they played Butte Central in their opening game and won 2-0 (25-15, 25-21), then defeated Park 2-0 (25-17, 25-19), which sent them to the championship game where they lost to Lockwood 0-2 (25-21, 25-21).
Earlier in the week Stevensville played at Corvallis on Thursday, October 9 and won 3-1 (24-26, 25-17, 25-23, 25-21).
Volleyball roundup
Victor
Th e Victor volleyball team host -
ed Seeley-Swan on Thursday, Oct. 9. The Pirates played tough early, but ran out of steam late and fell to the Blackhawks 1-3 (22-25, 25-21, 13-25, 11-25).
Darby
Th e Darby volleyball team played at Florence on Tuesday, Oct. 7 and lost 0-3 (10-25, 9-25, 8-25). Then on Thursday, Oct. 9 they played at Missoula Loyola and fell 0-3 (11-25, 7-25, 7-25).
Corvallis
Th e Corvallis volleyball team hosted Stevensville on Thursday, Oct. 9 for their Homecoming game. The Blue Devils won a tough first set 26-24, then faltered over the next three sets and lost 1-3 (26-24, 17-25, 23-25, 21-25).
Valley football scores cont.
Hamilton handles Dillon H amilton, ranked #5 in the latest 406mtsports.com poll, got back to their winning ways in Dillon on Friday, Oct. 10. The visiting Broncs bested the Beavers 42-21 to move to 5-1 on the season.
For Hamilton, QB Cooper Weston completed 15 of 20 passes for 162 yards and a TD, Weston also rushed for two TDs. Hamilton’s RB Jude Widmer had 18 carries for 94 yards and a TD. RB Brandon Saltzman had 3 carries for 51 yards and a TD. WR Luke McCarthy had 7 catches for 100 yards.
Hamilton hosts Butte Central (4-2) this week on Friday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. Darby defeated by Seeley
Th e Darby Tigers played at #6 Seeley-Swan on Friday, Oct. 10. The Tigers fought hard against the undefeated
Blackhawks, and the game was tied 1616 halfway through the 2nd quarter. But it was all Seeley from that point on, as they outscored Darby 24-0 to close out the game and Darby lost 16-40. Darby’s two scores came on a McCoy Townsend pass to Jordan Browning, and a Townsend run.
Darby is now 4-2 on the season and plays at Charlo (3-4) on Friday, Oct. 17 at 7 p.m.
Victor falls to Charlo
T he Victor football team hosted Charlo on Friday, Oct. 10. The game was scheduled as a Saturday afternoon game, but plans changed and Victor played under Friday night lights, as the school rented lights to host their first ever night game. In the game, Victor fell behind 0-24 before they rallied in the second half, scoring two TDs to narrow the gap 1624. But the Pirates were unable to come all the way back and lost 16-24.
Victor is now 1-5 on the season and
hosts St. Regis (5-2) on Saturday, Oct. 18 at 1 p.m.
Victor’s Kadyn Allred (#2) sets the ball as Jacquia McLeod (#14) looks on during Victor’s game against Seeley on Thursday, Oct. 9. The Pirates lost 1-3 (22-25, 25-21, 13-25, 11-25). Photo by Scott Sacry.
Darby’s Austin Hackel (#14) passes the ball in Darby’s game against Florence on Tuesday, Oct. 7. Florence defeated Darby 3-0. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography.
Hamilton QB Cooper Weston completed 15 of 20 passes for 162 yards and a TD, he also had two rushing TDs in the #5 Broncs 42-21 victory over Dillon on Friday, Oct. 10. Hamilton is now 5-1 on the season. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Michael Gregory Tatusko
Michael Gregory Tatusko of Hamilton, Montana, passed away peacefully on Thursday, October 2nd, 2025 at the age of 84. He was born in Orange, New Jersey on November 25th, 1940, the son of Mr. Michael Tatusko and Mrs. Mary (Podobinski)Tatusko. He attended the Morristown Preparatory School for Boys and was a graduate of Jonathan Dayton High School. He attended the Philadelphia College of Art. He owned a business in Millburn, New Jersey prior to relocating his family to Maine where he was the proprietor of a restaurant and bar. Mike then settled in Hamilton, Montana. His longtime successful Rainbow Bar was a flming location of the television series “Yellowstone” and many celebrities frequent there. However, he preferred his friendships with the local community of Hamilton. He was a parishioner of Saint Francis Catholic Church. Mike was an avid outdoorsman and a proud member of the National Rife Association. His fondest days were spent in the quiet pursuit of nature, whether waiting for a bite of a fsh or tracking a deer in the woods. His lifelong passion for hunting and fshing was not a hobby, but a way of life that con-
nected him deeply to nature. It shaped him into the man he was-patient, resilient, and always happiest with a bow, fshing rod or a rife in his hand. He instilled the love of the outdoors in his children and grandchildren. They were his joy and he was their Pop Pop.
Mike was predeceased by his parents. He is survived by his loving wife, Jo Tatusko; sister, Sandra Teach (Thomas); former wife, Mae Tatusko; daughter, Michele Schmidt (Kendal); son, Michael Tatusko (Mary); son, Mark Tatusko (Amy); grandchildren Brendan Slattery (Marissa), Connor Slattery, John Tatusko (Anna), Kathleen Hartnett (Cameron), Reid Tatusko, Delaney Tatusko; great-grandson Kellan Slattery. Relatives and friends are invited to his Celebration of Life on Saturday, October 25th from 2 to 4 p.m., located at the Rainbow Bar, 113 N. 2nd Street Hamilton, Montana. The family requests, in lieu of fowers, to please make a donation to the Bitter Root Humane Association, 262 Fairgrounds Road Hamilton, Montana 59840. Kindly sign the online registry at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Eve LaRae Brodowy
Florence - Eve LaRae Brodowy, a cherished mother, wife, sister and friend, passed comfortably in her sleep on October 2, 2025 due to lengthy heart health issues.
LaRae is survived by her husband of forty-seven years, Richard Brodowy, her brother, Larry Jacobson and two daughters, Sari and Rachel. Not only did LaRae’s love for life and celebration bring people together, but so too did her
cooking. She loved to host meals for friends and family affairs while also winning awards for her cooking.
LaRae’s compassion, jovial spirit and love for life will be remembered, celebrated and carried forward by all who knew and shared life with her.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that memorial donations may be made in LaRae’s name to the American Cancer Society.
Vickie Gale Claussen
Vickie Gale (Fredericks) Claussen, age 69 passed October 2, 2025, at her home in Darby, Montana. She was born July 26, 1956, in St. Maries, Idaho to Marjean and Melvin Fredericks. She grew up in Idaho and Montana with her three sisters.
Vickie was a devoted daughter, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother and a cherished member of the community.
Vickie lived her life with gusto, taking in the beauty of her surroundings and somehow making every moment matter. She was a Sears service technician for 30 years, sharing her expertise with friends and family after retirement. Beyond serving her family and community, Vickie had passion for motorcycles and the great outdoors. She traveled thousands of miles on her Harley Davidson, mak-
ing memories and meeting friends. Vickie was an avid hunter and outdoors-woman and kept a wellstocked freezer her entire life.
Vickie’s legacy lives on as testimony to her unconditional love and generous ability to change lives and provide safe haven to people in need. Her gentle spirit and endearing grace remain in the hearts of many.
Vickie is survived by her son, Jason L. Claussen; sister Keri (Fredericks) Brackett (Joe Brackett); nephews Jon Fredericks, Shane Rollins, and RJ Renn; granddaughter Millie Claussen, grandson Bodie Claussen, daughter-in-law Holly Claussen and numerous grand nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by mother (Marjean), father (Melvin), sisters (Pam and Christie) and
nephew (Aaron).
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at the C. Ben White Memorial Campground, 4925 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829, followed by a potluck at the same location where friends and family are invited to gather and celebrate Vickie’s life and legacy.
In lieu of fowers, the family requests that donations be made to one of the following: Brilliant Beginnings (donate at: https://darbybrilliantbeginnings.org/banking-information/ Trapper Creek Job Corps Student Government Association, 5139 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829 Darby Volunteer Fire Department, 500 N. Main Street, Darby, MT 59829.
At times, some fies are too deadly
“Do you remember the time,” my friend Steve began, “When I was fshing your Snowshoe Emerger on Skalkaho and had to take it of?”
I did, and Steve went on to recall the details. There was a blue-winged olive hatch on a cloudy day, about this time of year, and the fsh were keying on the half-in, half-out of the water emerger stage of the fy.
Trout will do that with a blue-winged olive hatch. Every stage of the hatch will be on the water at once, and they’ll eat only the fies in one stage of development and let the rest go by.
by Chuck Stranahan
That madness-inducing behavior isn’t too hard to understand, really. The hit what was on the water frst (until they switch,) what’s most numerous, or what’s most easily captured. If you have the right fy, (and the right tippet and leader, and are standing in the right place, and get the cast in,) you can score.
The literature says they’re being “selective.” I don’t think it works that way. In the case of the blue-winged olives that Steve got into, the trout were refexively feeding on the most visible and most easily captured fy in front of them. That happened to be the stage where the bugs were trying to hatch on the water’s surface, and still had their wiggly little abdomens suspended below the surface flm and their futtering wings beating on top. For the trout, easy pickings.
Steve had two burly Skalkaho cutthroats take the fy deep into their gills. He had to cut the leader, return the trout to the stream as best he could, and hope they’d survive. He didn’t want to risk killing other fsh so he took the fy of.
At certain times there’s something about that Snowshoe Emerger that brings more aggressive strikes to the artifcial than the naturals.
I had that experience on the Missouri – same fy, no blue-winged olives in sight, and a pod of bigsized browns were almost secretly sipping midges. You had slow down, watch carefully, just to see them.
I had two #18 Snowshoe Emergers with me and tied one on. It was about three times the size of the midges the fsh were taking.
“Here goes,” I thought as I made my frst cast,
“We’ll see what happens.” I wasn’t hoping for much, and was surprised when a brown in the eighteen-inch range exploded on the fy, ran, jumped, and ran again nearly into my backing.
I landed that one, the frst of eight, lost at least that many, and had to quit when I broke of my second and last fy in a huge brown that headed for the strong current midstream and with the line forming a big bow between us came to the surface shook like a bulldog until the leader parted. It didn’t take long – over and out, time to rejoin the family downriver.
I’ve never had to take that fy of for fear of killing too many fsh, as Steve did, but under the right conditions you could say it’s deadly.
Another fy that falls into that category is one I seldom tie these days and seldom fsh.
When I was tying commercially for Orvis many moons ago, before overseas fy tying changed the market, I was tasked with tying the Art Flick series
of nymphs. I fnished the order and had random small piles of three colors of dyed seal fur (now illegal,) natural hare’s ear, fox, and muskrat on my bench – and the seal was too valuable to waste. I also had half a coon hide with clean fur harvested from a roadkill. I blended it all together as the basis for some big ugly nymphs. Today I call the pattern the Mongrel. It’s had worse names in the past. The frst time I tied it on I had to dispatch the frst two fsh that hit it – gill-hooked and bleeding. Since then I only fsh it when nothing else works, and take it of if I must. Then there’s the Brindle ‘Chute. I’ve never had to take it of for fear of killing too many fsh, but there are times when its success is almost silly. My wife Jan will start every fshing trip with it, and only take it of when something else is decidedly more efective. For her the Brindle ‘Chute is just deadly enough.
Merle Unruh
For Jan, the Brindle ‘Chute isn’t too deadly, just deadly enough. Photo courtesy Chuck Stranahan.
DARBY: ‘Kut-R-Loose’ youth rodeo school to start
given the opportunity to learn from the best in rodeo. “The kids will think they died and went to heaven,” stated Ruark. “Those are the things we want to create.”
The program will also have access to an indoor rodeo arena, through Redeye Rodeo, for winter practices. Ruark hopes to create opportunities for youth all the way into the sport. According to him, “We will carry them right up until they want to go and enter a rodeo somewhere.”
During another of their rodeos, the Darby Rodeo Association held a paddle call earning $22,000 which they put into getting equipment for participating youth to use at the school. Rural said the program will allow them to try it before their parents have to buy it. Rurak also worked with a trailer company to buy a trailer, at half of, to store and move the equipment.
Rurak plans to call the program “Kut-R-Loose,” with the slogan, “Get started with us.” They are going to pull the trailer up to Kalispell during
the Northern Rodeo Association Finals this year to show it of and raise more money for the program. The DRA will also hold another fundraiser in March for the program that will feature the county music artist Clair Dunn.
For Ruark, all of this efort “goes along with rodeo being the state sport.” He added, fortunately, “It’s all coming back.” Rodeo is now the Montana state sport, signed into law this year. For Ruark, and the DRA, it made a lot of sense to, “put on some rodeo schools and help kids get started in rodeo.”
As a special treat for the end of the year, Rurak also wanted to reveal that the DRA will be unveiling their new PRCA Extreme Rodeo, which will take place August 23 next year. This is a new rodeo event for Darby, and will be a high end bull riding competition, bringing the best in the industry. Rurak said they plan to “buck 52 out that afternoon.” With over 50 riders, the rodeo will be putting in a starting pot of over $60,000. It will draw world
NOTICE OF ELECTION
Notice is hereby given that the following elections will be conducted solely by mail ballot: Municipal Elections: City of Hamilton, Town of Darby, and Town of Stevensville
Ballots will be mailed on October 17, 2025, to all active registered voters in each district and must be received, by mail or in person, by 8:00 PM on November 4, 2025, by the Ravalli County Election Administrator at 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, Montana 59840.
If you are a registered voter and do not receive a ballot, contact the Ravalli County Elections Office to update your information as necessary and receive a ballot.
Sample ballots are available on the Ravalli County Elections website at https://www.ravalli.us/ 515/Municipal-Elections
Dated this 1st day of October, 2025 Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6550
Darby Rodeo Association and the Redeye Rodeo
Above, frefghters during the tug-o-war in Darby. Below, Emma’s House representatives receiving the check from the Darby Rodeo Association. Photos by John Rudow.
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and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855- 901-2620 today!
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FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back! $5.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star ofce, 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville.
FIREWOOD FOR SALE. Seasoned and dry fr frewood. Cut, split, delivered and stacked for $300 per cord. Call (406) 561-1616.
326 acres near Three Forks for sale by public auction. Prime land for grazing, hunting, or development. $950,000 starting bid. Contact 406-444-4013 or visit mths.mt.gov/about/ LandSale.
MONTH TO MONTH
RENTAL, furnished apartment on 10 acres with pri-
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ROOM FOR RENT. BED, dresser, TV, small fridge, includes utilities, common areas, kitchen use. Hamilton. $500/ month. Call or text (406) 880-8351.
WE NEED OUR GUTTERS CLEANED. Can you help? Call 406-552-5858.
City of Conrad Police Department is accepting applications for Full-time Patrol Ofcer. Wages DOE, +Animal Control compensation. Information: cityofconrad.com. Send to: alund@cityofconrad.com , 413 S. Main, Conrad, MT 59425
Extension Agent in Roosevelt County, Culbertson, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming. Complete information and to apply: www.montana. edu/extension/careers . In compliance with the Montana Veteran’s Employment Preference Act, MSU provides preference in employment to veterans, disabled veterans, and certain eligible relatives of veterans. To claim veteran’s preference, please complete the veteran’s preference information located in the Demographics section of your profle. Montana State University does not discriminate against any applicant on the basis of race, color, religion, creed, political ideas, sex, sexual
orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, or any other protected class status in violation of any applicable law.
Extension Agent in Rosebud/Treasure Counties, Forsyth, MT. Full time. Exciting job with lots of autonomy! Will develop, implement and evaluate Extension programming. Complete information and to apply: www.montana. edu/extension/careers.
William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Ofce
PLLC
217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840
Telephone: (406) 3633181
Attorney for Personal Representative
MONTANA TWENTYFIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: THOMAS H. DUNBAR, Deceased.
Cause No. DP-41-202594
Dept. No. 1
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Ana Dunbar, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce
PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED 29th day of September 2025.
/s/ William J Nelson
Attorney for Personal Representative
/s/ Ana Dunbar
Personal Representative
BS 10-1, 10-8, 10-1525. MNAXLP
RAVALLI COUNTY LOCAL EMERGENCY
PLANNING COMMITTEE
The Ravalli County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) will hold its meetings for the year 2025 at 11:30 am at the Commissioners Meeting Room, 215 S 4th St, Hamilton, Montana on the following dates: October 21, 2025, and at such other times as shall be duly authorized by act of the Committee or its Chairperson. All interested parties are encouraged to attend. The Ravalli County Hazardous Material Emergency Plan and information fled by covered SARA Title III facilities in Ravalli County may be reviewed during regular business hours by making an appointment with the Ravalli County Ofce of Emergency Management. Copies of documents may be obtained at this ofce, and a fee will be charged for copying. Any such request shall be in writing and shall be with respect to a specifc facility. For further information on these matters, please contact Erik Hoover, LEPC Chairperson, at 205 Bedford St. Suite J, Hamilton, MT, 59840 or (406) 375-6655. BS 10-8, 10-15-25.
MNAXLP
PUBLIC NOTICE
The Burnt Fork Water Commission will hold its last meeting of the 2025 irrigation season on Monday, October 20, 2025 at 7:00 pm at the American Legion Hall, corner of Meyer Lane and Middle Burnt Fork Road, Stevensville. BS 10-8, 10-15-25.
MNAXLP
John S. Masar LionWood Law PLLC
115 W. 3rd St., Ste. 103 Stevensville, MT 59870 (406) 625-2682
jmasar@lionwoodlaw.
com
Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI
COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: SUSAN BORCHARD, a/k/a SUSAN VEARL BORCHARD, a/k/a SUSAN SAGE BORCHARD, Deceased.
Probate No.: DP-25-118
Dept.: 1 HOWARD F. RECHT
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.
Claims must either be mailed to ARTHUR T. BORCHARD, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o LionWood Law PLLC, 115 W. 3rd Street, Suite 103, Stevensville, Montana 59870, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 3rd day of October, 2025. /s/ Arthur T. Borchard, Personal Representative c/o LionWood Law PLLC 115 W. 3rd St., Ste. 103 Stevensville, MT 59870 LionWood Law PLLC /s/ John S. Masar
Attorney for Personal Representative BS 10-8, 10-15, 1022-25.
MNAXLP
Dan O’Brien O’Brien & Pekovitch, PLLP P.O. Box 1280 113 South 2nd Street West Malta, Montana 59538 Phone: (406) 654-2541 Attorneys for Personal Representative danobrien@coleamestoyobrien.com
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PATRICIA SUSAN BLAIR, Deceased. Probate No. DP-2025117 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this Notice or said claims will be forever barred.
Claims must be mailed, return receipt requested, to: Gary A. Mitchell, Personal Representative, c/o O’Brien & Pekovitch, P.O. Box 1280, 113 South 2nd Street West, Malta, Montana 59538, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 7th day of October 2025. /s/Gary A. Mitchell Personal Representative
BS 10-15, 10-22, 1029-25. MNAXLP
PUBLIC NOTICE SURPLUS VEHICLES
The Daly Ditches Irrigation District is accepting sealed bids for the following used vehicles: 1992 Chevrolet 1500 4x4 Truck, standard transmission, non-running. 194,562 miles.
2005 Chevrolet 1500 4x4 Truck, standard transmission,4.8 V-8, runs/drives 247,383 miles.
2005 Ford F-250 Super Duty 4x4 Truck, standard transmission, Gas V-8, runs/drives, Intermittent Dash cluster issue. Parking brakes are not working. 178,589 miles.
2008 Dodge Dakota 4x4 Truck, standard transmission, V-6 runs/drives 121,269 miles
The vehicles are located at 1023 Old Corvallis Road, Corvallis, Montana 59828. Interested parties can view the trucks at that address. The DDID ofce will receive sealed bids located at 1023 Old Corvallis Road, Corvallis, Montana 59828, Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., starting October 13, 2025, through November 3, 2025. Sealed bids will then be opened by the DDID Commissioners at 5:00 pm on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, in the conference room at 1023 Old Corvallis Road, Corvallis, Montana.
The District Board of Commissioners reserves the right to reject any or all bids.
BS 10-15, 10-22, 1029-25. MNAXLP Naomi J.
