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Joy Peterson Snodgrass - a lifetime of art

by Victoria Howell

Artist Joy Peterson Snodgrass lives a quiet life in Stevensville, in a home flled with a prodigious body of work. Now in her late 70’s, Snodgrass has been creating art for most of her life, and her home is a virtual museum of her work. Dozens of original paintings line the walls of every room in her house, documenting the beauty of nature as fltered through Snodgrass’s creativity, mostly in watercolors but also fber arts and other mediums.

Snodgrass said that she came from a musical family and was pushed to become a musician but that wasn’t the right ft for her so she chose art, partly to appease her parents. She received her degree in art at Brigham Young University in 1972.

Snodgrass moved to Alaska in 1976 and was there for 20 years, including when the Exxon Valdez oil spill happened, an event that had a profound

efect on her. She worked at the Otter Rescue Center in 1989, helping with the rehabilitation of sea otters. She takes pride in the fact that her work resulted in the publication of a scientifc paper, “Factors Afecting Perinatal Survival in Captive Sea Otters During Oil Spill Rehabilitation,” co-authored with Terri Williams, PHD and Pam Tuami, DMV. The paper was presented along with Snodgrass’s educational video on sea other birthing at the annual conference of the International Assn. of Aquatic Animal Medicine in Marineland, Florida in 1991. She was also deeply infuenced by Native American mysticism and her artwork during that time expresses the natural beauty of Alaska as well as these other themes.

“Every painting is a story,” said Snodgrass. “I just paint stuf that I do.”

Snodgrass has always drawn inspiration from the natural world around her. She moved to Stevensville in 1996, where new infuences like the birds at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, and cattle and horses throughout the valley have made it onto her canvasses.

Snodgrass showed her work for 10 years at LA Design, a prestigious Missoula gallery that also represented

Larry Pirnie.

“The mountains, landscapes, old buildings, churches, animals and the water refections and cattails full of birds inspire many paintings,” said Snodgrass. “I’ve travelled and painted throughout Montana. I believe my color language and bold strokes comes from observing endless abstract patterns, lighting efects, and exceptional shapes in Alaska’s atmosphere and Montana’s Big Sky country. Wherever it may be, I have to live my work to do it.”

Snodgrass has received numerous awards by national jurors and has exhibited in numerous statewide juried shows. In 1996 she was honored by the Valdez Museum Retrospective Exhibition in which they purchased pieces for their permanent collection. In Montana, her art has been displayed at the Daly Mansion, Costanza Artisan Gallery and

the Missoula Airport, as well as LA Design.

Despite some health challenges, Snodgrass has no plans to stop painting.

“I’ve had a bit of a rough time, but I’m still painting,” she said. “I’ll always be a painter.” Fortunately, the public will have a chance to view and purchase her work during the upcoming Artists Along the Bitterroot Studio Tour, October 17-19. Her studio is located at 423 Riverside Avenue in Stevensville. Hours for the tour are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day and there is no admission fee. Find complete details at www. ArtistsAlongTheBitterroot. com.

“You never really get to where you want to be – art is an evolving process,” said Snodgrass, “a never ending struggle to be free to express one’s self… learning shapes, colors, and essences of things can be explored in a million ways.”

Artist Joy Peterson Snodgrass in her living room in Stevensville. Her home is flled with her work, stretching over decades. The art will be for sale during the Artists Along the Bitterroot Studio Tour. Photo by Victoria Howell.

Joy Peterson Snodgrass at work in her home studio in Stevensville. Photo by Victoria Howell.

Group winners, frst through third place: “The Haunted Sleigh” by The Spooky Nine, “Knight of a Thousand Years,” “Camp Ohana with Stitch” by Girl Scout Troop 3748.

Business winners, frst throught third place: “El Cuervo’s Revenge” by Kutting Edge, “Local Crow” by Schultz Flower Farm (also won frst in artistic merit), “Keep Your Wallet Out of the Wrong Hands” by 406Secure.

Below, “Through the Looking Glass” by Stevensville Hotel won second in artistic merit.

The kids category winners were “Creepy Carrots” by Mrs. Golder’s First Grade Class and “Cowboys and Indians” by Luke Spafford and Zeke Berg.

Apple Day 2025

LOLO CREEK: watershed group tackles low water concerns

supply issue. There is just not enough water coming out of the mountains.” He said the water comes out of a narrow canyon and opens onto an alluvial plain that works almost like a giant colander which the water pours through.

Although the Bitterroot Fault, which runs through the area, may also be exacerbating the loss, according to Whiteley, studies done by the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and the Bureau of Mines and Geology have documented losses above the fault at over 11 cubic feet per second (cfs).

Whiteley said a lot of work was already being done in the headwaters to address the problem and that the Lolo Watershed Group was taking the lead in addressing the recent drought conditions.

The group originated in 2003 as an information clearinghouse where a steering committee ofered a forum for dialogue. Since then, they have facilitated riparian restoration, debris removal, channel rehabilitation, snowpack analysis, and mitigation of instream and on-the-ground sediment load, along with educational outreach to the

community and local schools.

In 2013 the group authored and received approval from the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality for the Lolo Creek Watershed Restoration Plan. Now, facing the most recent extremely dry conditions in the valley, board member Ron Pierce, a retired Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks fsheries biologist, is drafting a “very preliminary” Drought Management Plan.

“We seem to have some traction, with cooperation of irrigators, and it looks like everyone is ready to dig in and start working on it,” said Pierce.

The Lolo Watershed Group and CFC have been working with the principal irrigators, like those on the McClay Lolo Ditch, to address the problem. The McClay Lolo Ditch system holds about 30 to 35 cfs of water rights. But when the creek went dry this year, they reduced their withdrawals to around 16 to 17 cfs. According to Whiteley, FWP talked with the OZ Ranch, another major upstream irrigator, and they pretty much shut down too.

“We are in the early stages of trying

to write a drought management plan working with state and federal agencies, conservation groups and all of the local stakeholders to see if we can begin implementation of something that we can all agree on in terms of solving the problems,” said Pierce. “It’s an attempt by our group to lay the science out there and bring people together to solve some common problems and do it in a way that is good for a small community like Lolo. My sense is people want to help solve some of these problems and we are going to try to put together a plan that helps enable that

Victor Adult Education Fall/Winter

For more information or to sign up for a class, please call

through a community conservation project.

Bitterroot Community Band:

“I think the community expects their local watershed group to look into this and do what we can to help this stream function a little better. It’s not going to be an easy process, but it can work if people agree that we have a problem and if they care about the stream and I think we are at that point. We are going to give it our best efort.”

The Bitterroot Community Band is resuming it Fall session. They are accepting new members! If you are interested in joining the Bitterroot Community Band, please contact them at bitterrootband@gmail.com or by sending a message through their Facebook page @Bitterroot Community Band. Members may join at any time after the start date. Instruments can be rented through Victor School for $50. Performances this season will include 2 major Veteran’s Day performances as well as joining the Missoula Symphony Orchestra on stage in the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center for a Christmas concert on December 13th Meets: (Thursdays)

For more information about instructors you can visit our www.victor.k12.mt.us To sign up for a class, please call 642-3221.

individuals.

For more information about the Lolo Watershed Group and the Lolo Creek Drought Management Plan visit: www.lolowatershed.com.

Beginning Oct 2nd 7:00 p.m.-8:30 pm. Rehearsals will be held in the Music Room. Cost: $25.00

Co-Ed Volleyball (Advanced): This Class is intense and intended for those who have played a lot of volleyball. This is a very competitive group of players. Max 12. Gym Instructor: Amber Kay. Meets: (Fridays), beginning Nov 7th -Jan 9th 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Cost: $25.00

Bitterroot Community Band: The Bitterroot Community Band is resuming it Fall session. They are accepting new members! If you are interested in joining the Bitterroot Community Band, please contact them at bitterrootband@gmail.com or by sending a message through their Facebook page @Bitterroot Community Band. Members may join at any time after the start date. Instruments can be rented through Victor School for $50. Performances this season will include 2 major Veteran’s Day performances as well as joining the Missoula Symphony Orchestra on stage in the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center for a Christmas concert on December 13th. Meets: (Thursdays) Beginning Oct 2nd 7:00 p.m.-8:30 pm. Rehearsals will be held in the Music Room. Cost: $25.00

Victor Adult Education Fall/Winter 2025

For more information about instructors you can visit our web-site at www.victor.k12.mt.us

For more information or to sign up for a class, please call Shelley O'Leary at 642-3221.

To sign up for a class, please call 642-3221.

Co-Ed Basketball: This class is intended for those who would like to have fun and play some competitive basketball. Gym Instructor: Dylen Spain-Brist. Meets: (Sundays) Starts October 12th 7:00-9:00 pm. Open enrollment Cost: $5.00 per night or $20.00 per session

and

and certification class covers infant, child and adult CPR/AED. Room B Instructor: Heart of the Valley CPR, Kristy Gaul. Meets: (TUES) Dec 9th 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Max of 10 individuals. Groups may contact Heart of the Valley directly. Cost $25.00

Bitterroot Community Band: The Bitterroot Community Band is resuming it Fall session. They are accepting new members! If you are interested in joining the Bitterroot Community Band, please contact them at bitterrootband@gmail.com or by sending a message through their Facebook page @Bitterroot Community Band. Members may join at any time after the start date. Instruments can be rented through Victor School for $50. Performances this season will include 2 major Veteran’s Day performances as well as joining the Missoula Symphony Orchestra on stage in the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center for a Christmas concert on December 13th Meets: (Thursdays) Beginning Oct 2nd 7:00 p.m.-8:30 pm. Rehearsals will be held in the Music Room. Cost: $25.00

Intermediate Oil Painting: Bring your own brushes, paint-thinner in a wide mouth jar with lid and palate (if you have one). Paint and other supplies are provided. Class will be held in the Art Room. Instructor: Steve Wilson. Meets: (THURS, FRI & SAT) Oct 30th and Oct 31st 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. and Nov 1st 9:00 a.m. – Noon. Max of 12. Cost $35.00

Victor Adult Education Fall/Winter 2025

For more information or to sign up for a class, please call Shelley O'Leary at 642-3221.

Pottery Class: For beginners and intermediate potters. Wheel throwing as well as Handbuilding-Clay techniques will be demonstrated. Kelly will have projects to make & techniques to share, but individuals may come with plans for what they would like to make in the allotted time. She will be happy to work with you to accomplish your goals. She also makes outside studio time available, usually on a weekly basis, for practice of techniques & extra time for creating. Please wear suitable clothing. If you have questions feel free to call Kelly at 406-363-8861. Classes held at Kelly Price Studio (2329 Betty Lane, Victor) Max 6 students per class. Instructor: Kelly Price. Meets: (Wednesday evenings 6:00-9:00 p.m.) Oct 29th –Dec 3rd Cost: $75.00 per student. Includes clay, glazes and firing fees and tool usage.

Bitterroot Community Band: The Bitterroot Community Band is resuming it Fall session. They are accepting new members! If you are interested in joining the Bitterroot Community Band, please contact them at bitterrootband@gmail.com or by sending a message through their Facebook page @Bitterroot Community Band. Members may join at any time after the start date. Instruments can be rented through Victor School for $50. Performances this season will include 2 major Veteran’s Day performances as well as joining the Missoula Symphony Orchestra on stage in the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center for a Christmas concert on December 13th Meets: (Thursdays) Beginning Oct 2nd 7:00 p.m.-8:30 pm. Rehearsals will be held in the Music Room.

Co-Ed Volleyball (Advanced): intense and intended for those who have played a lot of volleyball. This is a very competitive group of players. Max 12. Instructor: Amber Kay. beginning Nov 7th -Jan 9th 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Cost: $25.00

Co-Ed Basketball: This class is intended for those

work with you to accomplish your goals. She also makes outside studio time available, usually on a weekly basis, for practice of techniques & extra time for creating. Please

First Aid & CPR: This First Aid and CPR training and certification class covers infant, child and adult CPR/AED. Room B Instructor: Heart of the Valley CPR, Kristy Gaul. Meets: (TUES) Dec 9th 6:00

Scenes from the McIntosh Apple Day at the Ravalli County Museum on Saturday, October 4 in Hamilton. Known as the “Biggest Bake Sale Under the Big Sky,” this beloved annual event sold over 700 apple pies to help beneft the Ravalli County Museum. Photos by Scott Sacry.

A recent fsh kill in Lolo Creek has drawn attention to the drought impacts on the creek and the Lolo Creek Watershed Group’s efforts to address the issue. Photo courtesy of the Lolo Creek Watershed Group.

2025 Stevensville mayor candidate profles

Two candidates are running for the position of mayor of Stevensville. Incumbent Bob Michalson will face former mayor Jim Crews in

this year’s municipal election. The election will be by mail-in ballot with ballots sent out to registered 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.

Following are profiles of the two candidates. Both spoke with the Bitterroot Star about their campaigns.

Bob Michalson Jim Crews

Bob Michalson was born and raised in Chinook, Montana. He worked on a farm all his early life and after a short stint in college he went to work on the railroad with BNSF. He became a track welder, and still holds the record with them for 24 thermite welds in a single day. After 24 years there, he retired in 2004.

Michalson moved to Stevensville in 2005, and said since then he has done a lot of local volunteer work. Michalson started attending council meetings in 2012, and said he has always been interested in local government and has been especially interested in the town’s future.

Michalson was appointed to the Stevensville Town Council in 2016. Since then he has only had one year of, when he stepped down from the council in 2021, during the time that Brandon Dewey was mayor. Michalson got back on the council in 2022 and served there until he took over the mayor position from Steve Gibson at the end of 2023. Michalson served as council president from 2018 until he was mayor. Speaking of his experience, Michalson said he has served with the last four mayors. According to him, “I learned bits and pieces, both good and bad, from every one of them.”

Michalson added that he has gone to government training and conferences every year, and Local Government Center trainings twice a year. Michalson said it has all been a learning experience and he believes it has made him better for the town. He said someone once told him, “he was on council so long he learned what not to do,” and he has taken that to heart. “How do you learn without making mistakes?” said Michalson. “If you think you know it all, is there room for growth?”

Michalson’s goals are mostly about improving infrastructure, like sewer and water. If elected, he also plans to focus on improving the streets and the parks, while working towards a sustainable future. According to Michalson, with Stevensville being the oldest town in the state, the infrastructure is starting to fail.

He added that when he started, the town was in bad shape and had no money in reserve. During his time,

they went with Montana Rural Water’s suggested rates, and now have a growing reserve that will allow them to pay of their bonds, put together matching funds for future grants and fx the failing sewer treatment plant. According to him, “It is not realistic or responsible to lower the water rates.”

He said his biggest personal accomplishment is that he is 39 years sober as a recovering alcoholic. He religiously goes to AA meetings and says, “It makes me a better person.” He added that as part of that process, he walks a lot. He says everyone knows that about him, and that they often refer to him as the “walking mayor.” He does fve to seven miles a day for mental and physical health. He said he often spends that time mulling over ways to help the town, and to address issues people bring to him. He feels it is important to have an “open door policy, where anyone can come in and voice their concerns.”

Michalson also spoke on his experience as mayor, stating, “So many things go on behind the scenes that people don’t see.” He added, “Government is ever fowing and ever changing, with diferent pieces, staf, and more. I’m not a micromanager. I listen to people.”

When asked why he is running, Michalson said, “I see vision for the town, moving forward,” including infrastructure improvements that “the town has lacked for so long.”

He also said he wants to form a park district. According to him, many of the users of the town’s parks live outside of Stevensville, which puts all that burden on town residents. A district could allow additional funding to upkeep these spaces and improve them. “Why can’t we build a new pool in Stevensville? Why do we need to keep losing $20,000 or $30,000 a year on this old pool?” said Michalson. He admits that may be a pipe dream, but it illustrates his point. He feels there are ways to improve things, to keep them as people love them, but to make those things sustainable.

“Regardless of the outcome of this election,” said Michalson, “I want to thank the residents of Stevensville, as it has been an honor to serve this community for the last ten years.”

Jim Crews is from North Carolina, but grew up around Florida. He served in the U.S. Navy from 1974 to 1982. During a lot of that time he was a nuclear machinist’s mate on submarines. A lot of what he values and expects were formed during that time.. “I was raised in the Navy,” said Crews. He values detail-following, and adherence to appropriate regulations..

Later in life, Crews worked for a power plant until 1994, in Phoenix AZ. He was also a frearms instructor and took pride in those jobs as well.

When asked why he is running for Mayor of Stevensville, Crews said, “I see things in the town that aren’t quite running right.” To him, the town has taken a lackadaisical approach to following protocol.

Crews said he has seen people be denied access to information that they have the right to see. Crews himself was trespassed from the town hall, allegedly for harassment. However, he said he has yet to receive any documentation or reasoning as to why. He added that they did not appear to follow the proper steps, moving from requests to complaints and then the eventual trespass notice. Crews added that he asked for the complaint reasoning and has received nothing. “I don’t think asking employees to follow procedure, or your rights, is harassment.”

An example he gave of the process not being followed involves the zoning administration. According to Crews, the zoning administrator does not seem to be doing his job. This is a position held by the current mayor.

According to Crews, who said he has reviewed a number of business licenses personally, it appears these documents and requests are not being reviewed by the administrator. Crews believes these are just being signed of without review, or in many cases passed along with no signature from the administrator. He claims the same has been true for building permits. To Crews, this is circumventing town law, and he even believes some things that are not supposed to be approved are getting approved.

Crews’ other main complaint was that the town seems to have no standard operating procedures, and the ones that are present are often not followed

correctly. According to Crews, the town employees and administration seem to believe that they are the law, and that they can do what they like the way they like, following procedures only when it suits them.

“It seems like everything that goes on in the town is like that,” said Crews. “I’m a procedures and policy guy.” He told a story of when he worked on a submarine and someone signed of on something small, like the proper ceiling of the main hatch, without properly inspecting it. When the submarine went under, it began to leak and had to return to the surface as an emergency. According to Crews, “A small leak can become a huge deal. That’s why procedural compliance is important. It afects people’s lives,” often in unexpected ways.

He admits that these town policies are not as directly dangerous to lives, but they can still hurt people and their livelihoods. He believes it is the government’s responsibility to follow these rules and regulations, as well as procedures, properly and appropriately. He said the people of Stevensville rely on them to do so.

Speaking on his experience, Crews said he was a council member in 2014 and also council president. He was appointed Mayor of Stevensville in 2016 and served as mayor until 2018. Crews’ wife, Cindy Brown, currently serves on the Stevensville Town Council.

As far as his goals, Crews stated that he is not running to lower the water rates, but he does believe they are too high. He said, if elected, he will implement a plan to study the situation, as well as implement a water and sewer committee, to look at the issue and come up with ways to save townspeople money.

Other goals Crews spoke of included honestly and legally representing the town and working to make Stevensville Town Hall a friendly and welcoming place. He also wants to restore transparency, repair roads and sidewalks, and make sure all public records are freely and digitally accessible.

“The mayor needs to lead the town, but he is not a dictator,” said Crews. “My agenda is, let’s get the town back on track and do what we can to keep it on track.”

Saddened by Tunny’s words

It’s not often I take exception to what people have to say in letters to the editor in the Bitterroot Star - or any newspaper for that matter, our freedom of speech and all. However, these words Mr. Tunny wrote “Mr. Robinson had simply had enough since his roommate and lover was a male transitioning to female. HE COULD NO LONGER SIT BY AND LET CHARLIE KIRK TALK ABOUT HIS PARTNER IN SUCH A MANNER… IT WAS ONE MAN STANDING UP FOR HIS LOVER!” So what then, Mr. Tunny? Killing Charlie was the answer? I’m sure you know, Charlie Kirk had the right of free speech, just as you do. I’m just thankful his free speech patterns weren’t as cruel as yours implied.

T Fellin Stevensville

What’s going on in Stevensville?

I moved to Montana from the socialist state of California in 1992, and I met Bill and Doreen Meisner some time later. After Mr. Meisner was elected Mayor of Stevensville, I noticed that during his term as mayor he had a good control of things in town. Now I’m seeing all these stories about the unrest in town. I don’t go to town meetings as I’m hearing impaired so I have to read about all the goings on in the town through the Bitterroot Star. I wonder just what’s going on? I’m a bit confused. Too bad Mr. Meisner is no longer with us to help get things smoothed out.

W. L. Slade Stevensville

Rumors

As treasurer for Bob Michalson’s mayoral campaign, I have heard some really bizarre comments about Mr. Michalson’s administration. I would like to set the record straight on a couple of those comments.

The frst one was brought to me by a person who said, ”Did you know that the City of Stevensville is using general fund money for the water/ sewer department?” I said, “Really, how do you know that?” “It was on social media.” Social media has a reputation for being less than reliable. At the grocery stores years ago there were racks of what Dad called rag papers next to the checkout counters. These were newsprint magazines with headlines like “Space Aliens Invade South America.” Not really the most trusted news sources.

The other comment was by a diferent person who said, “The City of Stevensville is using general fund money for the airport.” When I asked, “How do you know this?” the reply was “so and so told me and they got it from their good buddy who wouldn’t lie about something like THAT.”

When I asked this person if they went to City Hall to verify the information they replied in their righteous indignation, “I don’t have time for that.” So this person doesn’t have time to spend at City Hall but they do have time to spread rumors and innuendoes.

Mark Adams

Stevensville

Open letter to Daines

Senator Daines, tonight I watched while Rep. Dean pleaded with Mike Johnson to recognize that our presi-

Opinion

dent is unwell and needs to be removed from ofce. Johnson has the power to lead his colleagues in this important endeavor. We are watching the president’s performances... and that’s what they are. The emperor has no clothes, and it is obvious to us and to the world. European leaders are laughing, but we are NOT laughing. We are in anguish about what is happening to our beloved country, and it falls to you and to your colleagues in Congress to lead us out of this nightmare. Historians will remember and will record the truth about this unfortunate era.

Ruth Hazelton Hamilton

Open letter to Zinke

Congressman, is it time to regain your authority and legislate? You know what I mean; take back your constitutionally provided power to govern. You know; being one of the checks and balances of our government.

Your forfeiture of duties has gone on long enough. Will you be a leader instead of blindly following your parties’ dictates?

The “emergency powers act” is criminally imposed without basis in fact. Failure to act is tantamount to failure to govern.

The roundup and persecution of migrants (violent, criminals??) is over-blown to the nth degree. Many of these PEOPLE are not criminals.

The tarifs imposed on China are having a gawd awful efect on our grain farmers. This is becoming an awfully expensive “non-issue” that is being imposed by one man - the man you allow to run rampant, without checking his fascist ambition.

Yeah, I used that “F” word. US Army training, back in March of 1945, does a nice job of describing what a “F” is, does, acts like, and it also paints an accurate picture of what you are allowing to take place by not curtailing this administration. It really is up to you. This clarion call is to become the leader you claim to be. The leader you have trained to become. The leader our nation desperately needs now. Please?

In the Army’s training it tells that the only way to combat “F” is to make Democracy work. That means you need to work. Work for Democracy. Please.

Larry Keogh Hamilton

Americanism

President Trump declared that violence from the left is “designed to silence opposing speech,” then issued a directive to do just that.

Trump’s DOJ removed a National Institute of Justice study on domestic terrorism from its website. The removed study showed that right wing extremists are responsible for far more politically motivated violence than farleft extremists. Having removed accurate crime statistics from public view, Trump then issued a national security directive based on false ones.

National security directive NSPM7 stipulates that anyone who insults Trump, calls him or his enablers ‘fascist,’ or opposes Christian Nationalism is anti-American. Anyone deemed ‘anti-American’ is a proper target of persecution.

I have been American all my life, but feel somehow less safe. How can it be safe or ok to allow only one viewpoint? It leaves us all in dangerous territory because less than sane ideas may get amplifed and applied because nobody feels they can object to the insanity.

Is it 1984 yet? This administration (through the agency of the DOGE workers) has gathered data such as social security numbers and health insurance profles and tax returns together amid a surveillance state to make sure we are all speaking adoringly of our Dear Leader.

If you think you are not going to be in trouble if you are comfortably conservative, please note the number of times that Republican politicians who dared speak out against Trump were thrown under the bus. When this administration has cleared out opposition from anyone to the left of Sen. Joe McCarthy (of the House UnAmerican Activities Committee of the 1950s), they will come after anyone not sufciently sycophantic to the leader. Get ready.

I still feel safe to submit this letter only because I am retired and don’t have to be worried about losing my job because of my public commentary. Many of the people who posted less than adoring commentary about the Charlie Kirk murder lost their jobs due to this. This is the real UnAmerican activity.

The administration has not yet removed the First Amendment from the Constitution on their websites. They may just not be willing to acknowledge that we should be free to speak our minds even if we disagree with the president. This is still the United States of America but it is getting harder to recognize.

If you are also concerned about the direction of this government, please try to get to the NO KINGS march on Oct. 18 at 10.30 at the corner of Main and Hwy 93. in Hamilton. Toddy Perryman Hamilton

Sad day in America

Charlie Kirk single-handedly built one of the greatest movements of young Americans in our nation’s history — a fearless debater with an unequaled love of family, God, and country. Now he is gone, assassinated. How does this happen? How does a 22-year-old become an assassin? It happens when the constant drumbeat of extremist ideology takes hold of those in our society who lack balance. The death of Charlie Kirk lies squarely at the feet of such ideological extremism.

Let me be clear: Charlie Kirk’s assassin was clearly infuenced by leftist ideology. But make no mistake — this is not confned to one political party. There are extremists and globalists hiding behind both “R” and “D” labels, spewing hateful rhetoric. These self-proclaimed “righteous” voices, who seek to purge all who disagree, unleash their own brand of fre, fury, and dehumanizing language on anyone who dares to dissent. They are no diferent than Stalin or Robespierre.

Even more disturbing are those who hide their extremism beneath the steeple of a church, twisting our Christian faith for political ends. This not only mocks our politics but also desecrates Christianity itself.

Sadly, this American tragedy has no end in sight. The parents of this young assassin have now handed their son over to the state for execution. Another family destroyed. Another failure in America.

We would all do well to remember the words of John Donne: “Never send to know for whom the bell tolls; it tolls for thee.” Are we not all part of humanity? Are we not all connected? You cannot cut away part of your country — part of your soul — without sufering the loss yourself.

Do not let yourself be consumed

by hate, fear, or revenge. Do not allow fear, frustration, or convenience to replace conscience. Do not sleep while the foundation of liberty crumbles beneath us. Among you are the future leaders of this great nation — for you are greater than you know.

This, my fellow Americans, is a time to act. A time for the calm and thoughtful to lead the silent majority — the 85% of us who live in the middle — and to defeat the extremists who hide behind the Constitution and the Bill of Rights of the very country they seek to destroy, whether through intent or ignorance.

If you want to honor Charlie Kirk, engage. Stand up. And make this truly a turning point for the USA.

Tony Hudson Stevensville

Still waiting

People, I am still waiting for someone to reveal the Democratic Party Platform. How are they going to govern and move this country forward in a positive manner?

Jane Lambert Stevensville

Where will Grandma go?

Do you have a family member in a nursing home? If their stay is covered by Medicaid after they spent down their assets below $2,000 to qualify, their care could be terminated with passage of the Big Ugly Bill to give the wealthiest Americans a permanent tax cut. Over 60% of nursing home residents are on Medicaid and dependent on their nursing home care which averages $10,000 a month. Many Americans without a long term care policy, which is very expensive, will be out the door. Do you have backup plans on how to care for your disabled, elderly and frail family members?

Many Americans think Medicare covers nursing home stays but it doesn’t unless the care is of a skilled nature and medically necessary. Medicare and most health insurance, including supplements, don’t pay for non-medical long term care services, like personal care assistance with everyday activities, including dressing, bathing and using the bathroom. This includes transportation, home-delivered meals, and other community based services.

Sadly, also millions of low income Americans will be getting excessive premium increases under the ACA subsidies program. All of this legislation is the cruelest, most inhumane treatment of Americans, many who have worked their entire lives and now will be left out in the cold without insurance to support the richest people in America who will never need the benefts of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Our Congress is full of millionaires and could have stopped this drastic cut. Did Montana’s Congressional delegation do anything? NO, they sat on their hands when their no vote may have been enough to stop this from happening. Montana’s delegation spouted lies about illegal immigrants getting insurance when immigrants are not eligible for federal health insurance programs. Illegal immigrants do pay federal, state, and local taxes on their earnings.

All I can say is vote in the midterm election for responsible representatives who serve their constituents, not the wealthy minority. Contact the President and leaders in Congress. Let them know your disapproval. Stand up for those who need help.

Marilyn Wolf Stevensville

Sports

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

Hamilton fag football takes state!

The Hamilton girls fag football team won the 2025 Class A State Championship on Thursday, October 2 in Hamilton by defeating East Helena 7-0 in the championship game.

“I’m so proud of the girls,” said Mitchell Wassam, Hamilton’s fag football head coach. “They showed up every day, they competed hard and worked hard. The team was overcome with emotions when we won, everyone was so full of joy and excitement.”

The championship game was a defensive battle as Hamilton held East Helena scoreless. Hamilton quarterback Aubrey Korst scored the game’s only touchdown on a 4-yard run. Hamilton’s defense didn’t allow any points in the state tournament.

“Our defense was one of our strengths this season,” said Wassam. “The girls played hard and were very intense on defense. I think East Helena only got across midfeld once in the championship game.”

There were fve teams in the Class

A bracket. Hamilton defeated Lockwood 29-0 in the semifnal game on Wednesday to punch their ticket to the championship game. For Hamilton in the Lockwood game, Aubrey Korst had a 5-yard TD run, Korst had a 14-yard TD pass to Casey Kennedy, Mariah Johnson had a 39-yard punt return for a TD, and Korst had a 9-yard TD pass to Mariah Johnson.

Hamilton became the frst Class A state champion in fag football - last year all the Montana teams competed in one class. This season there were three classes for fag football: AA, A and B/C.

Hamilton lost their frst two games this season, then fnished the season winning seven straight.

“Although there were only fve Class A teams this season, we played many of the best AA and B/C schools during the year,” said Wassam. “We beat both Glacier

Valley football roundup

Darby defeats St. Regis

The Darby Tigers bounced back from a tough loss to Superior by beating a strong St. Regis team 40-36 on Friday, October 3 in Darby.

Darby’s do-it-all quarterback McCoy Townsend put up video game numbers in the victory. Townsend rushed 41 times for a whopping 313 yards and scored 6 touchdowns. He also led the team with 15 tackles from his linebacker position on defense.

Also for Darby, Oliver Long had 2.5 sacks and 6 tackles, Jordan Browning had 31 yards rushing and 6 tackles, and Jaden Bailey had an interception.

Darby is now 5-1 on the season. The Tigers have their toughest task of the season this week as they play at Seeley-Swan on Friday, September 10 at 7 p.m. Seeley is 6-0 and #5 ranked in the 406mtsports.com poll.

Florence whips Wardens

The Florence Falcons went to Deer Lodge on Friday, October 3, and defeated the Wardens 61-6. The Falcons have won their last two games by a combined total of 117-6.

Florence is now 2-3 on the season. They Falcons have a tough conference test this week as they battle #5 Eureka (4-1) on Friday, October 10th at 7 p.m in Florence. Eureka’s sole loss came against Class A Whitefsh.

Hamilton falls to Frenchtown

The #3 Hamilton Broncs hosted the #5 Frenchtown Broncs on Friday, October 3, in a matchup of top fve teams (406mtsports.com). The game was evenly matched, but Frenchtown outlasted Hamilton and won 21-14.

Hamilton jumped out to an early 6-0 lead, then Frenchtown scored 21 unanswered points to lead 21-6 at halftime. Hamilton had a third quarter touchdown to make it a seven-point game, but Hamilton was unable to make up the diference and lost their frst game of the season.

The game stats reveal an even contest. Hamilton rushed for 205 yards and passed for 98 yards, while Frenchtown rushed for 209 yards and passed for 101 yards. Both teams lost a fumble and Hamilton won the time of possession battle, but Hamilton had three interceptions on the night.

For Hamilton, RB Jude Widmer had 16 carries for 134 yards and a touchdown, QB Cooper Weston

completed 16 of 23 passes for 98 yards and rushed for 22 yards and a touchdown, and Jackson Lubke had 8 catches for 47 yards.

Hamilton is now 4-1 on the season and travels to Dillon (1-4) on Friday, September 10, to battle the Beavers at 7 p.m.

Blue Devils beaten by Beavers

The Corvallis football team hosted Dillon on Friday, October 3. The Blue Devils fought hard but fell 7-26.

For Corvallis, Marshall Jessop led the defense with 11 tackles, Aidan Emerson had six tackles, three pancake blocks, and a sack, and Caleb Johansen had six tackles, including three for a loss.

Corvallis is now 0-5 on the season and hosts Stevensville (1-5) in a Bitterroot Valley matchup on Friday, Oct. 10 at 7 p.m.

and Hellgate, and they fnished frst and second at state for AA. So the girls took a lot of pride in that.” Hamilton hosted all three state tournaments on Wednesday, Oct. 1 and Thursday, Oct. 2. In total, there were 21 fag football teams competing in the three tournaments. Glacier defeated Missoula Hellgate to win the AA title, and Three Forks defeated Jeferson to win the B/C title. “It was such a fun season and the girls really enjoyed competing,” said Wassan. “It was great to host the state tournaments this year. There were a lot of young girls who came to watch us play, so I think it will help recruit girls to come out in the future.”

Victor loses to St. Ignatius

The Victor Pirates played at St. Ignatius on Friday, October 3. The Pirates came up against a tough Bulldog team and lost 8-44.

Victor is now 1-4 on the season, and hosts Charlo (2-4) on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 1 p.m.

Stevensville defeated by Maroons

The Stevensville football team played Butte Central on Friday, October 3 at the Montana Tech

Stadium and lost 22-58.

The game was close early, as Stevensville trailed 14-24 at halftime, thanks to two long touchdown passes from ‘Jacket quarterback Luca Schmidt to WR Josh Pfster. After halftime, the Maroons took control and won 58-22.

For Stevensville, RB Landon Bryan rushed for 81 yards on 20 carries, RB Todd Whitescarver rushed for 73 yards on 12 carries, including a TD, QB Luca Schmidt passed for 192 yards, and WR Josh Pfster caught 3 passes for 167 yards and two touchdowns. Stevensville is now 1-5 on the season and plays at

on Friday, October

Corvallis (0-5)

10th at 7 p.m.

Darby’s McCoy Townsend had a monster game in Darby’s 40-36 win over St. Regis on Friday, October 3 in Darby. Townsend rushed 41 times for 313 yards and scored 6 touchdowns.

Photo by Scott Sacry.

Hamilton’s Mariah Johnson (#10) returns a punt 39 yards for a touchdown in Hamilton’s 29-0 semifnal victory over Lockwood at the Class A State Flag Football tournament in Hamilton on Wednesday, Oct. 1. Photo by Scott Sacry.

Hamilton’s Aubrey Korst (#14) grabs a fag off a Lockwood runner in Hamilton’s 29-0 victory over Lockwood at the Class A Flag Football tournament in Hamilton. Hamilton’s defense didn’t allow a touchdown at the state tournament. Photo by Scott Sacry.

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

Corvallis boys win state golf

The Corvallis boys golf team won the 2025 Class A State Championship in Sidney on Saturday, October 4. This is the frst state golf championship for Corvallis in the 10-year history of the golf program.

Corvallis led by seven strokes after the opening round on Friday, then closed the deal on a rainy Saturday to win by two strokes over second place Billings Central, 614-616.

“At one point late in the round on Saturday, we were down by four strokes as a team,” said Kristy Schlimgen, Corvallis’s head golf coach. “But the boys dug deep and pulled it out. To say I’m proud of them doesn’t do it justice. For them to be down at the end and pull out the win - it was so impressive.”

The members of the Corvallis’s state championship team are Brady Powell, Tag Jessop, Dylan Wirt, Tanner Sorenson, and Coby Powell. As a team they were +38 over the two-day tournament.

“The boys fnished in 3rd place at state the last couple of years,” said Schlimgen. “So they were super motivated to get it done this year, they worked hard in of season and during the season and it paid of.”

In Montana high school golf, the team score is a composite of the school’s four top scoring golfers, with an alternate ffth golfer whose score doesn’t count toward the total.

Individually for Corvallis, Brady Powell fnished tied for 3rd place at +1 (72, 73), Dylan Wirt took 7th at +6 (74, 76), Tag Jessop tied for 9th at +9 (80, 73), Tanner Sorenson tied for 20th at +22 (83, 83), and Coby Powell took 34th at +27 (87, 84). The boys individual state champion was Colin Jensen from Billings Central, who was -3 (75, 66).

For the Corvallis girls, Kristen Race tied for 19th place (100, 96) and Gracee Storrud tied for 33rd (106, 105).

Schlimgen has been the Corvallis head coach since the program started. “It has been an honor to be a part of the golf program and to be able to help the kids,” said Schlimgen. “We have had a lot of support for Corvallis’s golf program over the last 10 years. It is a credit to all our incredible supporters that we’re able to have a successful program today.”

Hamilton golf results

The Hamilton girls golf team of Cameron Burnett, Bryn Cianfone, Haley Weber, Ellie Hattlestad, and Rhain Hollingsworth took 4th place at state. Burnett took 6th place at +25 (88, 81), Cianfone tied for 19th (100, 96), Haley Weber took 31st (108, 100), and Rhain Hollingsworth tied for 37th (108, 105).

For the Hamilton boys, Jackson Kirkbride (84,83) tied for 22nd and Crimson Beyer (90, 89) took 46th.

Volleyball vitals

Hamilton defeats Corvallis

The Corvallis volleyball team hosted Hamilton on Thursday, October in a spirited battle between Bitterroot Valley foes. The student sections from both sides were rancorous, but on the court Hamilton had the advantage and won 3-0 (25-10, 25-13, 25-14).

For Hamilton, Ciara Hanley had 12 kills and 4 digs, Lundyn Murray had 11 digs and 4 aces, Aurie Duncan had 30 assists and 7 digs, Ella Grifn had 8 kills, and Jade Jimenez had 5 aces.

The Florence girls went to St. Ignatius on Tuesday, September 30, and won 3-1 (25-12, 25-15, 20-25, 25-14). For Florence, Maggie Schneiter had 4 aces and 23 assists, Emory Ralston had 12 kills, Jaden Fisher had 3 blocks, and Dia Jenkins had 20 digs.

The Darby girls went to Deer Lodge on Thursday, Oct. 2 and lost 0-3 (13-25, 8-25, 12-25). Then on Saturday, Oct. 4, Darby hosted Anaconda and fell 0-3 (7-25, 11-25, 17-25).

The Stevensville girls went to Frenchtown on Tuesday, September 30 to face the high-powered Broncs. Stevensville played solidly but lost 0-3 (1425, 12-25, 21-25). Then on Thursday, Oct. 2, they hosted Missoula Loyola and won 3-0 (25-19, 25-13 , 25-22).

The Victor girls hosted Drummond on Thursday, Oct. 2 and lost 0-3 (9-25, 11-25, 20-25). Then on Saturday, Oct. 4, Victor hosted Valley Christian and lost 0-3 (22-25, 11-25, 18-25).

Bitterroot soccer scores

Hamilton hosted Corvallis on Tuesday, September 30, in a Bitterroot Valley battle. The Hamilton boys won 3-0, and the Hamilton girls won 4-0. Later in the week the Corvallis girls hosted

Frenchtown on Saturday, Oct. 4 and lost 0-2. The Stevensville boys and girls were in Polson on Saturday, October 4. The girls game ended in a 0-0 tie, while the Stevensville boys won 2-0.

Hamilton Invitational at Daly Mansion

The cross country teams from over 20 high schools converged in Hamilton for the Hamilton Invitational at the Daly Mansion on Thursday, October 2. The Bitterroot Valley teams from Corvallis, Darby, Florence, Hamilton and Stevensville were among the participants who raced around the historic grounds.

Girls results

Individually for the girls, Morgan Delaney from Polson took 1st (19:05.87), Hamilton’s Aleigha Child took 3rd (19:34.16), Corvallis’s Cheyenne Herbert took 7th (20:34.29), Hamilton’s Reecelyn

Walthall took 11th (20:54.08), Corvallis’s Jillian Huls took 14th (21:07.44), and Darby’s Lily Adair took 15th (21:10.57).

Florence’s highest fnisher was Brinley Skaggs at 40th (23:25.01).

Stevensville’s highest fnisher was Irelyn Potts in 53rd (24:39.25).

The Polson girls took frst in the team competition, while the Corvallis girls took 3rd, the Hamilton girls took 5th, and the Florence girls took 10th.

Boys results

Individually for the boys, David DiGiallonardo of Polson took 1st (16:14.16), Hamilton’s Benja-

min Beare took 3rd (16:40.28), Darby’s Ben Martin took 4th (16:43.05), Corvallis’s Carter Koerner took 6th (16:57.63), Hamilton’s Taylor Doleac took 7th (17:07.32), and Corvallis’s Marrek Jessop took 8th (17:08.92).

Stevensville’s highest fnisher was Benjamin White in 13th (17:34.43). Florence’s highest fnisher was Caden Miller in 52nd (19:15.15). The Corvallis boys took 1st place in the team competition. The Hamilton boys took 3rd, the Stevensville boys took 8th, the Darby boys took 10th, and the Florence boys took 12th.

Corvallis’s Bode Pullum (#8) tries to get by Hamilton’s Fischer Goodrich (#15) in Hamilton’s 3-0 victory over Corvallis in Hamilton on Tuesday, September 30. Photo by Scott Sacry.

The Corvallis boys golf team won the 2025 Class A State Championship in Sidney on Saturday, October 4. Photo courtesy of Kristy Schlimgen.

Clint Robert Morris

1973-2025

Stevensville - Clint, 52, passed away at his home due to a horse-riding accident the evening of September 30, 2025. Born July 2, 1973, in Denver, Colorado, Clint lived a life defned by hard work, deep family ties, and a passion for the open road.

Clint built a career that refected his dedication and resilience. He worked as an over-the-road truck driver for several of the valley trucking companies and later became a dump truck owner operator followed by a log truck owner operator. His skills extended to local trucking, a profession that suited his strong work ethic and love for being behind the wheel. Whether hauling freight across long distances or navigating rugged terrain with his truck, Clint took pride in every mile he traveled.

Outside of work, Clint found joy in the outdoors. He was an avid bowhunter who cherished time spent in nature. Working with horses brought him peace and connection to his kids. These pursuits were more than hobbies - they were part of who he was.

Clint’s greatest devotion was to his family. He is survived by his wife Michele (Palin-Cassidy) Morris,

daughters Lynnlee and Cienna, sons Lance Morris and Shawn Cassidy of Augusta; stepdaughter Crystal Opat (Chavez) and Stepson Ruben Chavez of Corvallis; seven grandchildren and a great granddaughter; his mother Jay Fowler of Hamilton, sister Amber Needles, brother Shannon Morris; three nieces and a nephew; an uncle and aunt and a cousin.

He was preceded in death by his father Robert Morris; stepfather Ted Merwin; uncles Fred Nelson and Art Pyles; baby brother Shane Morris and son Jerry Cassidy.

Clint held many roles throughout his life – husband, father, stepfather, son, brother, nephew, cousin, best friend, buddy, mentor – and he embraced each with loyalty and heart. He loved his family deeply and will be missed by the many people whose lives he touched over the years.

A memorial service will be held in Hamilton at the Daly Leach Memorial Chapel, 1010 W Main Street, Sunday, October 12th at 11 a.m. with reception to follow. Condolences may be left for the family at www. dalyleachchapel.com

May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him or knew of him.

Becky Iola Haggard

Becky Iola Haggard, 68, of Lolo, Montana, passed away on September 27, 2025 after a short battle with cancer, surrounded by her loving family.

She was born January 16, 1957, in Missoula to Galand and Avis Frost, the youngest of three children. Becky married Dan Walling in 1974, and together they raised two daughters, Sarah and Danielle. She later married Joseph Haggard, and they shared many years together in Lolo until his passing in 2019.

A devoted mother and Nana, Becky worked hard to provide for her family and was known for her love of cooking, her strong work ethic, and the joy she found in time spent with her grandchildren, great-grandchildren, her mother, and her cats.

Becky is survived by her mother, Avis Frost; daughters Sarah Chalmers of Lolo and Danielle Lavaka of Midvale, Utah; brothers James (Michelle) and Randall Frost; nine grandchildren; nine great-grand-

Sherman L. Williams

Celebrating a life well lived

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sherman L. Williams, who left us peacefully on September 19, 2025 at the age of 85. Surrounded by family, Sherman departed this world leaving his loved ones with beautiful memories of the humble life he led.

Born on January 4, 1940 in Stevensville MT, Sherman was devoted to his family, an avid hunter and fsherman, and proud American. He served in the Army National Guard from October 1956 - February 1964. After marriages to Connie & Loretta in his younger years, he married Deloris (Dee) Williams on January 26, 1980 until her passing in 2019. He worked most his life as a logger and had stories galore of those “glory” days. After retiring from logging, he enjoyed keeping golf courses mowed to perfection. He always took pride in doing any job to the best of his abilities.

He is survived by his children; Sheri Kern and

Death Notices

Dan, Rodney Williams, Terry Williams and Karen, Ray Williams, Jef Bemrose and Kim, and Janelle Taberna; sister, Hazel Bateman; 17 grandchildren, 14 great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, cousins and their families. Sherman was preceded in death by the love of his life, Dee Williams; his parents, Raymond and Alta Williams; brothers Robert and Howard Williams; sister Lois Brenchley; stepson, Jerry Bemrose; and too many other loved ones and friends. He felt the loss of all those that went before him with his big heart and sensitive spirit.

A celebration of Sherman’s life will be held on Saturday, October 11, 2025, at noon at NorthStar Baptist Church, 8145 N. Ramsey Road in Hayden, ID. The spreading of his ashes will be May 2, 2026 in his beloved Bitterroot Valley in Montana. A reception will follow both services and all are welcome to attend.

We will forever cherish the moments we shared, and the love Sherman brought into our lives, just as his giggle will always be engrained in our hearts and minds. Though he is gone, his spirit will live on in our hearts always.

Hamilton - Michael G. Tatusko, 84, passed away overnight, Thursday October 2, 2025 at Bitterroot Health. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

children; and several nieces and nephews.

A graveside service will be held on October 9, 2025 at Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton, Montana at 2 p.m., followed by a reception at her home in Lolo.

Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Ms. Haggard. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

Thursday, October

lences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

Michael G. Tatusko

Vickie Claussen Darby - Vickie Claussen, 69, passed away at home on the evening of

2, 2025, surrounded by family. Memories and condo

A few years ago I found myself on an unfamiliar stretch of water.

I was with some friends and we were doing our best to escape the wildfre smoke that choked out our valley.

We were on the Blackfoot in early-mid October. The orange clifs and deep green conifers that rose above the river refected in the water amid the yellows and muted oranges of the streamside cottonwoods, water maples, and across the river and further up a gravel bar, the shimmering gold of a grove of quaking aspens.

by Chuck Stranahan

Our senses and our souls were at once exhilarated and humbled by the colors that surrounded us.

We fshed a little the night before – not enough to get the feel of the place, really, and there weren’t a lot of bugs out.

Still I had an idea what to expect the following day.

When I awoke from some much-needed full sleep the following morning, the tensions I brought with me dissolved over breakfast and second cups of cofee and camaraderie with friends.

I stuck around camp while the guys rigged up and went fshing. I loafed, ambled around the woods and the river a bit, fred up the Coleman under the last of the cofee, poured some of it in my favorite old blue-fecked enamel mug, and got out my fy tying gear. Even though I’d never fshed this particular stretch before, I had a pretty fair hunch of what could happen later in the day. I had seen some big orange October caddisfies bouncing around and laying eggs on the edge of the water across the river the night before. There were just a couple – and no fsh were on them. No matter. They had to come from somewhere.

Like the cobbler wearing worn-out shoes, my fy boxes were barren of the favorite fy I tie for the October caddis. I’ll usually fsh dry fies where I can, even if it’s pointless, but the fshing this October caddis nymph is an exception. As steelheaders say, the tug is the drug.

I kinda felt this coming as we planned for the trip, not knowing for sure where we’d fsh. Imade sure that I grabbed the right materials for this fy while I was throwing my gear together.

Now I laid everything out: #6 and #8 nymph

hooks, lead wire, olive-colored thread, UV and rabbit mixed orange dubbing, pale olive rabbit dubbing, and light hare’s ear dubbing – check. I mixed them all together in fairly equal amounts giving a slight edge to the orange until the blend was about the same shade as the bodies on the caddis nymphs I peeled from their cases down at the river the night before.

A couple of wraps from a multicolored feather from the back of a ringneck pheasant served as the legs and wings of the insects that drifted free from their cases and swam toward the surface. For the head of the fy I’d mix some of the orangish blend of dubbing with an equal amount of hare’s ear. The fnished fies don’t look like much, especially when compared to the brighter, gaudier patterns you’ll fnd in most fy shop bins. But when it gets wet, it looks very much like a real bug, and when retrieved, moves in the water the way the naturals do.

I tied up enough for all of my friends to have some

– enough to risk a few breakofs apiece.

I went down to the river after lunch in mid-afternoon. I cast across and down, and fed line until the fy had drifted free into the area where I thought I’d fnd a pod of fsh. Then I tightened up, stripped about nine inches of line in one second, and paused for two. After the second or third pause, there was the tug I hoped for, and was anticipating. “I love it!” I thought – this is what I came for. I was into a rainbow that went a little over two pounds, the frst of several similar-sized fsh that came every third cast or so as I worked my way down that frst campground run.

Once again, the Orange Caddis Drifter brought the tugs. Predictable, yet all-new each time. And not the frst time that fy has brought those tugs.

This week, conditions could be right on my home stretch of the Bitterroot. And I’ll be there, waiting for that tug.

Dry, it doesn’t look like much. Wet, an Orange Caddis Drifter looks like food to a trout. Photo courtesy Chuck Stranahan.

(Open to the Public)

Bitterroot River Inn

Inaugural Veterans Day Dinner: ‘For God and Country’

The American Legion Posts of the Bitterroot Valley proudly announce the Inaugural Veterans Day Dinner, a heartfelt tribute to our nation’s veterans under the theme “For God and Country,” inspired by the American Legion’s preamble.

Join them on Tuesday, November 11 at 5 p.m. at the Farmers State Bank Event Center, Ravalli County Fairgrounds, Hamilton.

The evening begins with patriotic music by the Bitterroot Community Band, followed by a delicious dinner from the Trapper Creek Job Corps’ Culinary Arts Program and beverages at a nohost bar by the Rainbow Bar. Guest speaker, Colonel Ethan E. Sabin,

Deputy Commander of the 57th Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, will deliver an inspiring address honoring veterans’ devotion to faith and nation. Exciting door prizes will add to the celebration. Tickets are $20 per person or $150 for a table of eight (includes two complimentary bottles of wine). Businesses, individuals, or organizations can sponsor a table with recognition on the table. Register online at https://corvallispost91.blogspot. com/ or https://www.facebook.com/ Corvallis91HeartValleyMT/ (Venmo accepted), or in-person at:

• Farmers State Bank branches (Victor, Hamilton, Darby, Stevensville, Florence, Lolo, Missoula)

Bitterroot Plaza Dr. Hamilton, MT

Ceremony, Prime Rib or Roast Chicken Dinner, Drinks and Dancing. Appropriate dress please, or come in uniform if it still fits!

Tickets are $75 each or sponsor a table of 6 for $500. Only 150 tickets are available, so get them fast! Tickets are available through the VFW, 108 Main St., Victor. All proceeds benefit Bitterroot VFW Post 1507.

For more info, visit our Facebook Page: Bitterroot Marine Corps Ball or Contact Dave Scott: (206) 595-0505

• Triple Seven Liquor, Stevensville

• VFW Post 1507, Victor

• Any American Legion member

“We’re honored to unite our community in the spirit of ‘For God and Country,’” said Doug Mason, Press Coordinator. “With sponsors’ support, the Bitterroot Community Band’s music, Colonel Sabin’s words, and exciting door prizes, we’ll celebrate veterans’ service.” Veterans, residents, groups, and businesses are warmly invited. Tickets must be purchased by October 28, 2025.

Contact Doug Mason at 406-546-4244 for details.

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HAMILTON TRAIN AND TOY SHOW, Saturday October 11th, 10 am - 4 pm at the Hamilton Senior Center. For more information call Mike Gouse at (406) 363-0254, or email at create@mtart.com

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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.

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.

electrical & battery tools. Stacking tool storage & even a Lincoln welder & parts washer. Hobby items = hunting, fshing, skiing, camping, bicycling, a paddle board and reloading supplies. This is man’s epic work and play sale! NO EARLIES - CASH.

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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.

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

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.

GEAR UP MEN’S SALE! 318 Buck St., Stevi. 10/10 - 9 to 4(prices frm), 10/11 - 9 to 3, 10/12 - 10 to 2 (½ price, ofer). Health forces sale of all tool items by a former general contractor & a hobby enthusiast. Virtually every kind of tool & supplies available = construction & demolition! Major amounts of hand,

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

Legal Notices

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Final Report of the Darby Study Commission is available at https://www.darbymt.net or a printed copy can be picked up at Darby Town Hall 101 E Tanner Ave, Darby M-F 8-5. BS 9-17, 9-24, 10-1, 10-8-25.

MNAXLP

REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) FOR ENGINEERING and GRANT ADMINISTRATION SERVICES

The Bitterroot Conservation District (BCD) is soliciting a Statement of Qualifcations (SOQ) for engineering services for the upgraded design, permitting, construction administration, and grant administration for the BCD Union Diversion Resource Improvements project. The BCD may utilize the selected engineering consultant for grant administration, design, and construction services for other projects related to the diversion including but not limited to preparation of a Preliminary Engineering Report. Payment terms will be negotiated with the selected engineering consultant.

Responses to this RFQ should include: 1. the engineering frm’s legal name, address, and telephone number; 2. the experience, qualifcations and location of the staf to be assigned to the project; and 3. a description of the frm’s prior experience, including any similar irrigation projects location of project, and names of three (3) references regarding the frm’s performance on irrigation projects.

Respondents will be evaluated according to the following factors: Overall quality of the SOQ (30%); Consultant qualifcations and experience, including reference checks (40%); Prior experience with related projects (20%); Location of frm (10%). The selection of the engineering consultant will be based on the evaluation of the written responses. Considering all factors, the award will be given to the most qualifed consultant whose Statement of Qualifcations is deemed most advantageous. Unsuccessful respondents will be notifed as soon as possible. Questions and responses should be directed to the BCD by phone at 406361-6181. All SOQs must be received no later than 4:00 p.m. (local time) on Wednesday, October 22, 2025. Mail or hand-deliver to Bitterroot Conservation District 1709 North First Street, Hamilton, MT. 59840. Proposals should provide assurance that the frm has the professional capability to satisfactorily complete all tasks outlined in the detailed RFQ. Please state “Engineering Services Statement of Qualifcations” on the outside of the response package. Include four copies of the Statement of Qualifcations. The SOQ may not exceed a total of 6 (six)

one-sided pages, excluding a one-page cover letter and resumes. Minimum font size for all text is 11 pt. This solicitation is being ofered in accordance with federal and state governing procurement of professional services. Accordingly, the BCD reserves the right to negotiate an agreement based on fair and reasonable compensation for the scope of work and services proposed, as well as the right to reject any and all responses deemed unqualifed, unsatisfactory, or inappropriate.

BS 9-17, 10-8-25.

MNAXLP

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Leisl Marie Burt, Leisl Marie Burt, Petitioner.

Cause No.: DV-25-238

Dept. 2

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Leisl Marie Burt to Leisl Marie DuBose.

The hearing will be on October 16, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 11th day of September, 2025. /s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court By: Catherine Di Gleria Deputy Clerk of Court BS 9-17, 9-24, 10-1, 10-8-25.

MNAXLP

Kyle J. Workman State Bar No. 65442127 Workman Law, PLLC P.O. Box 1167 Hamilton, MT 59840 T: (406) 802-2198 kyle@workmanlawmt. com courts@workmanlawmt. com

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of JOHN JAMES STROUD, Deceased. Probate No. DP-412025-0000106-IT Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the 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 ELLIOTT STROUD, the Personal Representative, in care of WORKMAN LAW,, PLLC, 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 1167, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and

NOTICE OF ELECTION

correct.

Dated this 18th day of September, 2025. /s/ Elliott Stroud WORKMAN LAW, PLLC

By: Kyle J. Workman

Attorney for Personal Representative BS 9-24, 10-1, 10-8-25. MNAXLP

Naomi J. Cheeney

Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RONALD G. MORACA, Deceased. Case No.: DP-41-2025108

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 Wendi Fawns, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED the 18th day of September 2025. /s/ Wendi Fawns, Per sonal Representative BS 9-24, 10-1, 10-8-25. MNAXLP

LEGAL NOTICE

The Ravalli County Planning Department is inviting public comment on a foodplain permit application for a proposed project within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area of the East Fork Bitter root River. The applicant is Mr. Matt Tull. The project will construct add two additions to the existing 20-feet x 24feet residential structure. The additions are 8-feet x 8-feet and 13-feet x 9-feet and will add additional living space to the north and west side of the existing structure. All construction will be complet ed in accordance with the Ravalli County Floodplain Regulations. There will be no additional sanitation or water facilities added to the exist ing residential structure as part of this project. The site is located at 1495 E. Fork Road, approximately 7 mile east of Sula, in Section 05, T1N, R18W, Ravalli County. Information regarding this application is available for review at the Ravalli County Planning Department at 215 S. 4th St, Suite F in Hamil ton. Written comments may be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed (planning@rc.mt. gov) and must be received by 5:00 pm, Wednesday October 15, 2025. Reference application # FA-25-18.

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

Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator

BS 10-1-25. MNAXLP

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

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

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,