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Coveringthe theBitterroot BitterrootValley Valley- “Where – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Owned Locally&Owned & Independent Covering Montana Begins!” - Established 1985 - Locally Independent

’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B e ‘Th 37 29 39 Volume Number 35 Volume XXXVII, Number 30 XXXVII, Number 28 Volume XXXIX, Number 33 29 Volume XLII,XXXIX, Number 10Number Volume XXXVII,

30, Wednesday, February 9, 20 Wednesday, January 26, Wednesday, March 13, 20 Wednesday, March 6,202 Wednesday, September 16, 2026 Wednesday, January 31, 202 Wednesday, February 2, April 10,

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Bitter Root Humane Historic trap club faces closure Broncs , Bullssubdivision , & Association Barrels Sapphire Valley approved Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary

F Tickets $25 2 Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter I Groundbreaking for medical cente 0 N Mile Community Center open Three

Kids 8 & under Free! Tickets at Murdochs, speech, occupaDarby Wine & Spirits, a levy,Double so this won’t have an Hto Hat,do thethe Gate, tional and physic Howell by Kristin MichaelKruse Howell6 andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing prop by Thechanges park additional impact on peopl ortherapy services – FRI & SAT, Sept. 18 & 19  had Gates Open @ 4PM, Event @ similar 6PM provided by shares from the tial impacts to the roads, to in the subdivision review the environmen by John Dowd space filled up so fast they to open giving many other talks about Alliance analysis website.of It’s been a long time S to Colleen board made property taxes. The Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. public safety, and across the impacts byincluding handing off its thera over 220 people theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. The TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to thea loan, Bitterroot Health Commissioners gave condiAccording toonthewere prelimito the rural character of the is a founder was alsoofdiscussed. In that mandated duties to“It other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people lined up out the door. Ramsey the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. was Mile Community Center is up who serves to take out a project was paid for by been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imagi held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to the subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper Missouri agencies and ignoring num Phillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG Oswald heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as well as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the Sen ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments expressed concern Waterkeepers and a group ous specific, documentable was attended by(the people from all ove Ranch in Florence, a presentatation a resident of the West Fork. He has Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the in Darby and contacted him, the project. Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said An open house celebration was organization’s 50 years of service, “ for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents living close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and in school Montana, including Anacon theits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sotheyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on a 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the such as complex that will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and away a of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnic cialize, compete and hone their Humane Association’s (BRHA) new ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by am the facility open of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abunmetal contamination in rivers. He has Helena and even into Idaho. This (RCFWA), on the Sheep Creek Mine by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Uning contains a large meeting they started Farmers State rummage sales, bingo nigh skills, the club also functions as a built just north of by animal John Dowd Town Code Article 3 section 2-57, silent on this matter. Crews cited approval of the council for tempo-bunch more under the Last weekend the Bitter located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular tripson per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County andmanager indirectly the area and failin proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, over papers, according toto keep have been because many area conse room, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working Bank and donations from comm spring of 2023 501c3 non-profit the Stevensville at thesupporting which states, limited. under “Prescribing the Stevensville Town Personnel rary70 assignments. mayor rather thanby the public works Humane Association participatMile Creek Road and Upper road system. Additionally, and some already having to the Department of Natural to analyze the impacts on th Road in Hamilton. The event served a Kathie Butts, President of the president of the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, and has been his bio on the Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this in 2012 their loan nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan Questions about the mayor’s duties and compensation of municPolicy Manual, specifically, Section In other words, Montana law director, Crews said. See Mine, page corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in a nationWoodchuck Road east of the applicant is proposing to be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. double purpose. It included a ribbon Board, said, “This organization has system, and a gorgeous view and incorpopayments contributors were the Thre programs as The Bitter- ipal officers,” that “The council has 9, Authority for Personnel Action, authority oversuch town employees, provides that a mayor has the Crews later reversed the assign-to on continuing al “slumber party” event. Creek Road and Florence. The land isHalbeing a 100-foot by 100were alsomayor expressed (DNRC) overthe the processcome andment while the of the Mountains topower rated incompensation, 2014. reasonable. Mile Fire District, the Lone cutting ceremony in honor of thededicate new such a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. According toThe club plans for aBitterroot new downtown to fix and to quoting “ The and/orabout their thepower to supervise discharge before thatway evening’s council expand services. Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. developed by Laura Watson of foot easement for the use and impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct that th the west. She said the Those payRock Park and the Rapp Fa members, hundreds of kids have facility, tours of theprescribe whole the duties of all officers about 50 years ago. I feel a loween eventincluding and the proposed designee will execute personnel ac- of official duties by subordinate started meeting. event the “Slumber Pawty,” which “We’re bringing t Watson Homes LLC who was benefit of the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or duty to provide the statutor The building is now home total cost is ments come ily Foundation. John Bishop, Bitpurchase of a used police vehicle and employees of the town, subtions at their discretion.” Interestofficers. The law also addresses the Another concern raised by participated in that program building, and an array of food and huge sense of responsibility to hono opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerandmentioned contribute ingly, Creek Company, runoff, impacts wildlife required information lies w care to theus patien to the senior center and the approximateouton ofnearby park Schmiedeke said there were among the issues to theDistrict limitations that refers only to storm “Personnel council’s role intothe appointment, Michalson involved the town’s over the years. Along with theirjectFire terroot Health CEO, drink in honor ofdiscussed the organization’s those who have come before and members who participated to stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural Action,” and as the impacts on Eight Milesuspension landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], t Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are were many volunteers who during a recent Stevensville Town in MCA title 7.” That provision in cases of relieving and removal of certain purchase of a new vehicle for the own programs, the club supports he said. 50th birthday. make it as good as it can be as we se said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, among Consultants Inc. (PCI). Fire District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court is incorrect in its im Council meeting. addresses the council’s powers employees of duty. municipal officers. PublicCounty Works Department. that serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has over Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization the course for the nextLois 50 from years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12but Schmiedeke Former Stevensville Mayor Bob does notCommissioners specifically define the However, in Montana State Crews said the parks manager’s It is public knowledge, The proposal ispark for sinThe A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County ca The surrounding conassessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners andIn peth, chair ofwith the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon SunMichalson raised concerns during mayor’s authority to make tempoLaw, which neither cited, because reassignment was not intended to past council meetings and multiple gle-family residential use received dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. Th TheItMontana Hopethat Project. The iscomment often said Mile Community Senior Center board l to r,He Colconducted a successfu Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, theclub public period about rary personnel assignments. the town falls under the Montana be permanent. Hecriticized described itthe as aorganization witnesses, that the department’s with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County thatmembers, DNRC. counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the Three is proud that general contractor donated is utilized by local schools, little locally owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the See SAPPHIRE, page Mayor Jim Crews’ decision to temMichalson also accused the Code Annotated (MCA) 7-4-4303, temporary assignment tothey the mayexisting vehicles were in poor conwith the shelter animals, wore fundraising campaign to fund the n granddaughter of Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, a walking path, a playgroup had didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts bookstores are atown’s waning See CENTER, porarily reassign the parks council of not doing their due defining theatpowers of the Park. may- Photo or’s office that would allow himto torun dition. According to Crews, “I’ve pag pajamas, played games and more new community center Lone Rock by V. Howell. construction but then the Covid-19 the BRHA land on Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised about have has been four yea and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Chamber Al Mitchell group as Bitbusiness. the amongdiligence toBitterroot manager. stop the mayor from of Commerce or related Director to municipal officers, holds the learn more spell-bound about the town’s parkspandemic spent a hit lot of time, as mayor, trying in support of thelease. shelter. and construction with a 99-year Six years later, others. in the works, cost but folks that own Chapter Board Member McCormack preparesand to cut the ribbon According to all Michalson, the doing this. ter Root Humane Association personnel and citizens,Sue it clearly operations identify potential skyrocketed. to improve As these guys’ working Shelters over the U.S. and a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive diOne Book Store, in Hamreassignment should have gone In an interview after the states the mayor can from “superconcerns. conditions.” In a later thereinterview, were some John Bishop, pictured fifth left, leads a gathering people involved in the celebrating thecouncil opening of thethat new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michaelof Howell. even out of the country held the to take out atomortgage to finish thethe land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception before Town Council. “Hesame over- 24meeting, Crews said he believes viseHealth the discharge of official duty in a ceremonial Crews said he discussed the had Crews pointed other improvedelays due to the same event during the Bitterroot building project groundbreaking. The facility on the property that had housed the Sue McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Trap Club members line up for a shoot. Photo by Kristin Kruse. the current shelter is located. The reached his authority,” Michalson his by all subordinate officers.” Under idea with former Public Works ments made for Public Works emto this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, 5 actions were within the law. See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fundpandemic. She sa 1984. the of Lassiter. directors will be the built on land located atorganization’s the corner ofboard Kootenai CreekThe Road and Hwy including 93 new building replaces an old building said. It should alsoshelter be statedsince that the clause, the mayor can do this Director Stephen ployees, the installation cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is tha by John Dowd do. According to Steinhoff, “We have Michalson cited Stevensville Stevensville Town Code is mostly unilaterally does not need the assignment placed the parks just north of the and Stevensville Junction. an “outstanding by Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the See MAYOR, page 7 ipants each workmodel to raise funds toNathanto act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to their respective shelters. City Council met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling “quality, victim way to combat the Hamilton Hamilton Downtown facility will besuc mo Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as been providing Individual community businesses day, March 5 to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. abuse is for people Association. They will of a “medical center” rather than jus also donated toprojects. the fundraiser, Hamilton. accessible, upcoming city at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to ship901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said thatquestions Marcus Dal The new 12-acre campus will care” for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of ping depot for FedEx, and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. Hospital, which is a critical access Halfway about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.”the Farrenkopf In recent years, theyShoppe provide primary, care, urgent care and Appreciation by Mayor DomiBoxxe versation with tho Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners throug There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it at hospital, was recently rated #4 in the specialty services. Two physicians have Farrenkopf is legally justified to you know and love co-owners, and been taking steps to a lengthy fund by fund bythe Victoria Howell me like a ton of of slumber party, and a barbethrough fiscal lier, made it into the opening. After the time. However, at the end of the Police Chief Stephen Snavely. open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national ra ing to one of them, Mara Every year, the Ravalli accounting that, to su already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to the meeting, during the non-agenda items In his presentation to the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Asso-been up, shows thefaciliti count ing agency, outitof 351 similar year, county practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have in the Burnt area lately to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion the counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways they ciation works to affect conseroverall, doing very we visit the shelter. by Michael Victoria Howell being recruited. also be he said, with clinics in doingaresent to Covid, Greg Howell. home from There willby retiring. members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely saidcil that he wants the protocol, and victims are told, bu

Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville A 2 by Victoria outBulls, more at Saddle www.GregOverstreet.com by Victoria Howell L shelter.Find $140,000. Bareback, Barrels, Bronc

Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty Former mayor says Crews overstepped

Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years

Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan

scheduled

budget looking good

have been successvation inofso the Bitterroot through on its tax collections a Many the participants thatperiod The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet has a During the public comments. Hamilton Police Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that ove the ful. Joined by the other showing revenues various projects and programs. spent night were will kids. During tional Forest (BNF) The Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message for you: of the the council meeting, Robert “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. toStein“become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One such program is their the party, participants hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February is hoff stood toNeyenhuis, address the council. He things saidthat council member Jenny “It the He was home for don’t around! the good happen able toWest. uncover to departments say12th. they This are ship and Marisa most wh scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” this Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers Overstreet, two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having who can expenses have only o Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. awards three winners 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page 11 hosted by the County Fish and and possibly Stevensville as well.” Her ing his department’s experiof the package: nearly paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in During that time, amounted of three people allows them an interest in pursuing todisplay share Association information Wildlife and Trout Unlimthoughts were shared by several other ence with Ms. Staub was one $16,000 in cash, common tactics fo and former council member, the public at the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections due in larg to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, by Victoria Howell regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of to this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural appears to be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, ment of a draft forest lip Ramsey to speak on the dangers In discussion agenda In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly send-from a normal of claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe fill said Luther. The spread sciences. event. Freeman is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management At the second regular of a proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, the first to be brought forward er came to the Boxxe Shoppe ing to a scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one council and mayor how local Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Plan (CMP). The virtual tional council members. meeting of the two-member According to Steinhoff, “I thought was the issue of re-roofing the city intending to send a package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. N by John Dowd of that time as the executive director. of the winners to receive aMara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section.that Photo John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate fo February of 2021. 51 by is brain Christine Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will beto held on See BOOKS, page 18 government should run. He “We’ll do our job,” said it wasn’t going affect me, but I street shop. According to Hamilton via FedEx. Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, on After it was announced that he would be Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and als He wentSee through damage material.” Zoom. below for only than Boddy. learned that it would take just City Public Works Director, Donny The customer Sometimes was a frequent commenter Gibson retiring, he was asked to speak, and was got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, the experiencethey has be On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the who high school in January 27, town clerk Jenelle the Army valley. for 21 years, his and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Seeorganizational COUNTY, page seemed con-introduced will tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Five fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put in he was wasthe no joke. “It fused and unOver a loved has hurting.” said that he heard plow storage for other maintehosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law andand the current executive suggested to him that he victims, get involved peoplevictims all over that the valley,” and all of i completed a semester of college the last administration. In from Hamilton, was recpotential butuse wishes similar meetings audience that she was having good as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee told that the cancer got so bad I felt familiar with course of her landed in jail, or that a prize about the track record of the company nance equipment. According to Radirector. Al gave told a history ognized of the chamto network. Hethat thenothers got onto the board has been “extremely rewarding.” for members, giving their annual report, and submitted herin transcript within the commupublic Crews for in (virtual) were held Freeman saidAlthe committee trouble streaming the meetthe process, decade with has been won,hopes but a to feeraise needs had been eradicated. like I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was notwhat very comment, mer,and it isspoke the original roof, which hasstepping in the early 90s, and in 2012 he became was the executive director until reviewing 2023 and talking about ber, about important memproviding proof of compLeting nity would help her look out 2021. the council that those makto handle the prosecution $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the rode and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. Steinhoff stated that the comsome significant leaks and insulation Overstreet had breathe, like I ings on the internet. She said they have planned for the upcoming bers during that time that led up to him the executive director. 2020. Since then he has been the adv associated courses. These are for their safety. At least one Inhas addition to the been in the by John Dowd chines. became susShoppe, Staub funds. The scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany supposedly state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just getting old,” he sa surgery on October was being water taking on the position. Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition in year. During the meeting, it was also the former YouTube chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn and eachpicious In addition to the custom leathwhen has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, time left will cut down on the heating bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting bang the “The mayor, notofthe GregValley Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided whatand story the Bitterroot 55boarded, board members participated the role. Al will be retiring in August t announced that long-time member,address Al cants must meet tolonger be eligible was a resident at a local nel they had was no about and participate Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s Studio is featuring Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Photo courte considering recovered address, but(left. will be ready taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry storage of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. AlAllen spoke, Jodi stood to to tha removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had set up was Stevensville Main Street business, Riv- the work of more than a dozen local approximately the customgrab the package from a porc Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked if there anygle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, He said theCovid-19. organization’s history. According towith him for cowboy all his help to remind him back from the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual balland – which actuall Another of these requiretreatment in the boarding to be had to be provided a ride is not a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, this er’s Mist, a new business haseven recently and regional See artists. Many of these COUNCIL, page 21 athing new Facebook page. Hower’scould age andoverarching in was meant to be a six-month front door when it arrives. the was doing, or Mitchell has been with the Chamgoal for the Chamber has $60,000 him, what he was only supposed to held speak for yea 10 ments iscity that each applicant started 11the years agoor but couldn’t be last to the bank as well as to colon cancer journey. like,” recalls week’s meeting will location. covsession. “It’s public comment.” did the work at no charge to opened at the same Howevartists have not shown their work in the particular cash, all of “They always direct the ever, members of the public ber for over 36 years, and spent much always been to keep businesses connectappointment to the position lasted 12 minutes. a 500-word essayabout dis- the Boxxe Shoppe. due to the pandemic – has been upgraded this The day after that Overstreet. “This ersubmit the following agenda er, dissuading any worries thehad Bitterroot Valley before, so there details the which was to victim to send it, ‘no signatur The of mayor said previousthe town. “I just wanted who had he tried to access theplays years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing the role hunting “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, was is when realized changeover, it will remain a place of should be a lot of interest in the new transaction. being fraudurequired,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Assoc ly that he would be answering publicly thank Joanoffor help-been The Town of recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, it. “It’s a good ride forStevensville 29“This numbers have been “trending ever she says, pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate• Review overall is the first year we’ve ever done fully diagnosed with that I was not art. After two months of renovations material. There are 16 artists in total lently deThe Bank Secrecy Act ation. Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch. years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward to year.” However, 2023 saw the highes See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the town,” flags abound when seniors are in while town attorney Greg objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. TheOverstreet University COVID-19. taking Covid center, for filling while hidden behind brown-paper ly, it covwas notso far, and the owners are always manded from of 1970 requires banks to being on the other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person Crews also said that they said Overstreet. outcomes of the public ofPictured Montanawith Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Studio opened for“I patience as Jake’s she worked was obviously seriously enough. Staub’s firstwelcoming more. “We like all kinds senior citizen keep track of withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, pag is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should be forsaid some its doors March 1.said ofprepared mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new business will feature business partner, Suzette Smith. encountered the commuSee STEVI, page 2 “interesting comments” from Greg Overstreet talks about his recent brush with death due to Overstreet. “It hit Jim Crews, former mayor bank to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. Photo by Victoria Howell. at 901ofS.the 1stvalley Street in Hamilton. See COWBOY BALL page See page by Howell onsite leatherwork byPhoto Karen displayed such nity. Staub is The firstcustom responders of Stevensville were joinedcirby responders from across the artists to honor those that gave their lives onSURVIVING, September 11, 2001. More photos onMichael page 3. Photo by John Dowd. See Covid. by VictoriaSome Howell. SCAMMERS, page makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one ofpage the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants County Commissioners work is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plan by John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with a On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensvila proved adoption of a memorandum of understand of tooling which features variations on has changed since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contes by ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue work byJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing with the Ravalli County DUI Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith took over the space. While A Hamilton business,In that hails the theme is pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice the change at all, the andinvestigation. it may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After the ing and marketing as one. “Weand didn (DCI) will be doing the commissioners stated Protection Agency. The lette National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a secured video designe her leatherwork, isaround also RIver’s Mist was anher, art co-op, the from Texas, has been working toinan en1889, and the contest is and still looking agricultural leadership competito the level and invita convince her to hire Hill again. hire sale, Hill as a chauffeur. after Mrs. Daly died. To others byto John Dowd by Michael Howell Since January 2,Karen Exit Realty the to some positive growth in the future. the southand portion was purchased want tostate change a whole bunch right On Monday, April 1st, 4:30 According to Hamilton Police Departto help parents keep tabs on their children’s beha accomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations manage timber to provide Plan. courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twel Daly Jr. died in 1930, but Hill continBefore coming to Montana, Hill had with the mansion, it was unacceptable to Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of the previous Exit Realty Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Police, Snavely, SeeofSteve ART, page 6 livedby ior. ain variety of pieces from furniture to A forget uedto toevents. have a connection with the family. in Nevada, where worked as a impacts the interesting lives those Maureen Lischka has spent 18 years the valley. To do this, they have be high school students, 9th totwo 12th forjobs; the and next level competition at the forest products and toheof unmitigated concerning the Draft SEIS new record of decision changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. When asked how this change wilf involved in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on by Victoria Howell if it would be possible The DUI Task Force approved the creation of Marcus Daly III also convinced his grandchauffeur and raced cars. Based on her men, and they had to do something about volunteering in the basement archives of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a county-wide contest, showgrades. 95th State FFA Convention in Billings 2023-24 district championships by Victoria Howell year, the facility took in just under The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rock not be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off the franchise Even though the franchise has split affect buyers and sellers in the valle suspect at the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concern was issued on December 17, retain old growth status in all county owned/maintained to put envelopes on January 18, for filing objecby Victoria Howell his property which would in effect with the highway, which is a state addressed when the private land wa a Mischief Room last May and commissioners mother to hire Hill on again. research, Lischka believes a friendship it. theall Daly Mansion, researching the people her work is done by her twotook rights casing the participant’s loveown of art, Corvallis anddrag, Florence schools inthe April. for Stevensville include: $240,000 and spent every penny. venville’s main beckons visitors ies Bluegrass Association, there wil es might affect them. Fortunately, that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Exitroads Realty is still the equipment Lendman said that itand will not chang venience Store. The engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also ing the scope of the analysis treatment units. According to from heavy 2021 accompanied by a Draft all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because now you’re going to sold to a new owner Fish, Wild In 1940, Hill ended up in the hospital. likely developed between Hill and Daly Jr. The first was Robert Dawson, who and stories connected to the prominent signed off on it. The project involved the creation tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, no suspect lasers orthreatened CNC maand theusing Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the most active, though allof Over 200 students in Rockies StevensAgronomy led the by Sidney Jasmin Shinn, founder and There no paid employees; it’sMcan al“N The annual Montana beare no break from music, and, according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, fransame company. Additionally, accord-mostly, in. by John Dowd. place the and standard inage these types kopf, activities director put valentine cards Theafter Stevensville Town CounPark, ain 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucksatrucks, pulling and Parks got involved. once-p Lischka said he had heart problems and Thepress two shared interests in automobiles came toPhoto the United States at 18. In Daly family. Recently, Lischka gave asoftand logging the letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides aprocedure site-speathe Forest Service release set of easily accessible items that hadThe secret hid ATR Smart Procedures is a schools in the valley are welcome to ville’s agricultural education program Casland, 1st place individual with tal Environmental Statement Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up. Just get up there and play.” current owner of the north valley half chise was split between the north ing to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot executive director of 1the Horse volunteer organization. But Shinn said reportedly charged at the responding officer involved shooting situations. See EXIT, page at Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf really drank heavily. While hospitalized, Hill and hunting, among other things. “You 1897, he was hired by Marcus Daly to presentation on several of longtime cil was split on whether to accept just to the north of the private piece of boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs to the state compartments where someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s Forest-wid about 90% of the proposed but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment ware design company, now based in participate. Some of tremendous the schools even learn aboutFestival a wide is range of agriculteam members Rahl,toKyra D (Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass returning to convinced For some of Quinn these bands, this w officer. have seen sup- couldStevi At A Time Draft Horse it costs about $200 per month feed the hospital to give him itsaim best writeWye a whole book on per him,” Lischka work as a“We gardener. Dawson remained and prominent servants who worked for to Homes inHowever, Hamilton, isRescue liked the idea. He asked a small piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county at 45 miles hour - there is aflask developed fishing access sit drugs orthe hide aand small of whiskey. The wa Hamilton. after moving include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. Management Wildlife Reto Willow Creek Road. Due to defining old-growth stantreatment areas are within an Victor. On Saturday, April 13, the be their first time, and for others th The attempted to provide port, andfamily we greatly appreciate all said are Project, a Bitterroot thesetelling “gentle Then there are facility inofficers Corvallis, gotitem a During nice room, staff thatopportunity Mrs. Daly would about Hill.to be accidents there.” with the negotiated Daly for decades. HeofbetheButterfly Daly family over the years. asking the community students schools Stevensville bridge, an that was at and the donation the going “But I giants.” think it’s [the piece the to provide a learning toon see t Montana, the organization owners lum. school day under the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn Ha Neely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is resource and financial limitasource Objective to “Mainta area designated for insect and dards. Some objections to the life-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was pay for it. She had made no such arrangeHill’s life was colorful, and his relacame ill in 1936 and died in 1939. Lischka herNational research, Lischka went looking for boost last week when she was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and to send his residents a and daycares to make Forest project that considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson said he didn’t west] still a viable piece of land for various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen in love with the According to the contest orgaengaging instruction of ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team Last year the lopes. the music. This spring music festival always asufficient treat. Conroy who was then transported by ambuespecially proud of this during time ment, Lischka said, but paid forhighlighted the you room with the family was complisaidriver Dawson was well-liked by disease the Dalya theincludes headstones of some of those servants. old-growth habita treatment because of Daly tions, Ravalli County would new decision were received little love this special envelopes and other associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck for $7500 meeting. The land ownership will now access pending the outcome of tionship see what use theenveland is to the town. “I city tofrom have, whether or not their substance use casual inspections. nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One of the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter,put an lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history that he believes is anyway. cated. He left their employment multiple family and was even given a home to stay What she found was that two of them tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the county. The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only see a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Mo not be able to accommodate on suitable timberland to by the January 18 deadline dense pockets of dead and dyfrom representatives of JCCS, an these horses. When they’re fi nally read Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, of commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. had to each be more reallysupport popular, and from allemptied over area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Ev Hill eventually left the hospital and but time the he was eventually in after he retired. Despite his long serwere missing. from his wounds andawas pronounced seeing the member lowest law en-times, About four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then Council Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he looked up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what she tells parents is,so “If you don’t look, adoption, most can be driven or the accounting fiis rm with branch the necessary maintenance support viable populations ingfor trees. They claim the area said having to dowith with theparticipation been through their art contest. The even more, full their knowledge to thewas test askind FFA Conduct of Chapter Meeting: te mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. returned to work for the Dalys. He rehired back. Lischka Hill the vice to the family, Dawson’s grave was left The graves belonged to a longtime garThese bands will play for free, and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a in resident came could drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. B then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’ located Hamilton. Part of the ridden, and some just become “pasture idea came from a similar art contest from all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Ha of old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the logging of old growth, mained with the along familywith until their his death of person people either loved or loathed. without headstone. dener for the Daly family and Sheriff’s aofpolarizing newdonated one will take the stage every half and play, friend Ti within a 55,000 acre area The Ravalli County Office isenveaapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after to Farrenkopf to see tines to fill the of the bridge, was offered to the Town this of land. “It’s two was on the condition that looking long term, if you have prop See VALENTINES, page 10 pets.” selection forserved awarding that gift See DUI, page they held in Houston, Texas right af- to be These also include Trapper Creek Job opened tioned career and leadership developett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz first created in the last “It really the in 2020. first was to the drawing board. by John Down in 1942. One of the Daly daughters paid Daly Jr. and Hill appeared to That maintain The story of the other Guy Hill, gentleman who aMounchauffeur. rehabilitation of thelevy road after species.” The letter notes tha tial toIn wildlife and toman, beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, hour. Ezzell bass. and Hamilton Police Department all his 26 years with departTucked away onas Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their heads forest inevents the Sapphire in 2017 by Ravalli County for use as aimpacts roads converge, the bank is the incrediitment would be maintained and utilized erty onon the west side ofestablished the river,and th 1 Horse At A Time was was online voting and according ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, for his funeral. Hill died without money, a professional relationship, Lischka said, was more complicated. Both men were single and had no family, One of the problems, ac50 years. To do this, they will door to some interesting permanent and asked for $9.5 One band that continues to return According to Conroy, the festiva issued a press release that detailed ment, Snavely noted there have only the Draft SEIS limits the sco dwarf mistletoe and western the project is complete. Ravalli Willow Creek Road. together to decide what was needed just to the north of Fort Owen State potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially conso tains east of Corvallis. ATR wanted to find atry way to astonished, last toofhave To contend at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. according toin Lischka’s research. their shared interests suggest they Hill wasneeded born in Indiana in conversations 1877 and that according to Lischka’s research. Mrs. Daly by Shinn 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea with million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we “Hopefully, the third need to was ask the community ispeople,” the Johnny Campbell Band, visiting purpose isits “toenvironmental promote and encour event andtenure investigation. However, been three these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a Bitterroot or not in theyear, community. Theybut County objects to in shifting of conseNational Forest spruce budworm damage. During the of former issues… It isof the fastest part of the years. idate highway property into the Tow The original proposal was When it came to putting in the headmay also have been close friends. Daly came to the Bitterroot Valley in 1910 after paid for one of the men’s funeral expensThe next glass recycling event in button, cell phone batteries (out of feature the beauty of the state and much participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen is the charm,” commented to pass a levy, which BVCC said Butter, speaking about was exorbitant and occurred sumed people knew what th Germany where she grew up around Simmerman, 1 Horse At A Time from Nashville. They will be memjoined by of age old-time bluegrass music.” The very little information is available However, these are always a of danger of nonprofit organization that offers a at came up and with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the owner of land channel the deepest part the Vickie Motley, park board Stevensville. I think It’s somethin quences analysis to vegetati in general financial burden of the project officials have stated that the Jr. repeatedly went back to his mother to Marcus Daly Jr. convinced his mother to es,Bitterroot while her daughter paid for the other’s the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info to give back to the community, and “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett withdrawn in August of 2020 Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Communi horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program side targetcenter, which is were modeled after a that highly See MANSION, page 4 atthis the river ononce the northeast had channel. If you toart develop ber, said that had been done RDO Equipment Co. the woodpecker an agreement with the proposed to2more. Ravalli County and believe project is designed to improve from 10 a.m.nothing tounsure p.m. at theevent north if you don’t have batteries toabout recycl thought their successful art said Hafer,the saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colto of exactly how the College was.” However, the College (BVCC) trustee andaccess without success. campaign, which helped the soula, Idaho and The is abut all share thepileated same love of bluegrass after Friends of the Bitterroot she is especially passionate getters. The officer is currently on leave neither officer, nor any other comed towards highly motivated people successful organization in Denver, attempted to shut off river on for fishing, I would also see a problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, pag end of the Ravalli County Fairnow you can save up to bring them contest was the way to go. According come in all forms. District in Montana consists of twelve Harris 8571 Running W. Road The vote will take place organization to speak with the process worked. They were seems to have been a major secretary, Sue Smith. She was it is contrary to current law pine marten. forest resilience to natural project, the Ravalli County single-microphone type event, with a When asked why he loves bluegras during thisolder investigation, as is stanmunity members, were during draft horses. She and her husband, a That check followed inRavalli the wake ages 18 and in Wild both and called “Crosspurpose.” It harmed offers similar and Alliance for the grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on Jun to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will beinsects the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meye misunderstanding about th speaking about the May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under thatthe theStar single stage. toimpression Mike Con“We realize these old growt Commissioners expressed and existing agreements.” disturbances like fire, Missoula, MT 59808 protocol. The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, pag Rockies filed suit claiming the 8th. gallon. Jars and bottles that coning director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying even the college. public desired an independent nature of the community tion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair free training, Summit offers six-month offered species are listed i Forest officials also received and disease;The reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks or relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20fromcareer Tractor Supply. 406-549-4171 agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, the ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. chapter. Schools of allmay classifications for the Stevensville FFA:will ask public foruse help with a Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following those meetings, community college, as it was college.recycling According to also Butler mentoring, support and friendship to sources is broken down into three acre farm which Shinn said can suppor That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip Strobel the Forest Plan, but it is not county owned and maintained ment in the Willow for this a (second fee.together Anyfrom color, and labels available forFree apeople fee. available science in managing reception has been This year, they will be away compete in FFA includAg Sales 2nd place team led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn left) 1 Horsecan At by a high many believe it toby be rare opportunity to incredible. create a doors. and wanted to hold true.” She thephase trustees said that voted inofpreviously registration for all whoever walks through their Stevens that thegiving first isJasmin RDOequipment.com about 20 horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear whether there are othe roads, especially Willow Creek Director of the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stay on, but please remove lids. Sponsored by the non-profits When speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the AA schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individua levy beClark, different. The margin.JCCS AfterBranch being created, associated with the outreac community college in the Bit- of and others with BVCC have A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l towill r: which Levi CPA, Andrea Simmerman, elk habitat and didn’t comThis program is the brainchild called “personal development,” children under (RCR) 15. taking care of draft is “All Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling an in the Bitterroot, Lander said, ofoftrout cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to with team members Jones Office of Stevensville, the Regional bull habitat; restore Road. terroot. According tohorses trustee worked to alter the levy toRoping, time they went to the the district was levy program run Kamryn by the Univers Manager, and Will Ramsey, CPA.first Also pictured is Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable toAdminply with the definition of old Mutton Bustin ’, Dummy Stick Horse Barrel Race, & More! power duo Myla Yahraus, the owner involves aptitude testing to idenRegistration online only an expensive proposition. Last will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page them have had some sort of Montana winners, which take the form of grant four of the twelve chapters are in the Teigen Hackett, and Charlie Leona See GOLD, page for community funds. After ty of Montana. The reality i vice chair, Jean Butler, this give it its best chance and to public, they did so after being •FREEby ESTIMATES INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Yin OUR HOME IMPROVEMENT Cof O .COM istrator In a At letter to the Forest firstincluding horse thatmeadows, was rescued 1 Horse A Photo by Victoria Howell. of the Environmental the Fortfound Owen Ranch and founderhabitat tify what each individual’s specific growth the Bitterroot at SAT, September 19  Check-in: 9:15-9:30AM  Begins @ 10AM per pound. Thebeing following will be acFor more information refer to t theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, address the concerns of the approved for the creation of significantly voted down would be only the fourth of the center, and co-founder and ExecPaid for by Brad Davis, P.O.website: Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page ART, page 44 SeeSee SUMMIT, page cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such as old and Corvallis.

Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds

Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meetin

New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task

Force, MAPS to partner on Art contest seeks Stevi FFA chapter Hamilton officers special video more participation

sweeps district North valley Exit Realty has a new face fire on suspect Bluegrass Festival Gold Butterfly project draws some objections Headstones honor longtime Daly Mansion servants Spreading love horse Local draft rescue thriving Stevi to return park land to county set for Saturday

Glass recycling BVCC gives it one more college try event scheduled Contact us for all your equipment needs. Summit Career Center offers more than career guidance

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Page 2--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

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Bitterroot Star--Page 3

Sheriff’s Office to host BBQ fundraising event The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office is hosting their 3rd annual BBQ Cook-off fundraiser on September 26. Funds raised support the Shop with a Cop program in Ravalli County. Sheriff Steve Holton said he is truly grateful for the community support of the Shop With A Cop Program. The program could not exist without that support, and Shop With A Cop is a perfect way to serve our community. Taking the kids shopping for their families during the Christmas holidays is always a heartwarming experience. The kids are always thankful and this is another example of why Ravalli County is such a great pla-

ce to live and work. Sheriff Holton is looking forward to another great fundraiser and encourages everyone to attend and have a fun evening and support this important project. The event will take place on Saturday night, September 26, from 5–8 p.m. at the Bedford Building in Hamilton. Tickets are $10.00 per person and include a sample BBQ plate with two sides and are available for purchase in advance at the Front Desk of the Sheriff’s Office or at the door on the night of the event. No host bar provided by The Rainbow. There will be a live auction and raffle with a wide variety of amazing items.

DJ Randy Eppinger will be entertaining this year. Cash prizes are being awarded in three categories: beef ribs, pork ribs and a wild card category. If you are interested in entering the competition, the rules and entry forms are also available at the Front Desk, or can be emailed. There is a $25.00 team entry fee. We have made this event affordable and family friendly, with several ways to show your support. Contact Kristin at kkruse@rc.mt.gov with any questions. Sheriff Holton accepting a check from the Stevensville Civic Club at the BBQ Fundraiser. Photo courtesy Kristin Kruse.

Stevensville first responder 9/11 silent parade

The Stevensville Fire Department and Stevensville Rural Fire Department partnered with other emergency and first responder organizations in the valley to “continue the promise to never forget” those that died in the line of duty during September 11, 2001. At top left, the local Celtic Dragon Pipe Band could be heard playing their bag pipes through town. At top right, the Stevensville American Legion post 94 carries the colors. At bottom left, Stevensville Police Officer Otis Baugh reads a number of the names from the list of those who passed at or because of 9/11. At bottom right, the Stevensville Fire Department and Stevensville Rural Fire Department are joined through town in a silent parade of emergency vehicles. Photos by John Dowd.

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Page 4--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

MANSION: servants remembered with headstones decades after deaths Continued from page 1 stone for the two men, local author Larry Strate stepped up and donated the money for Dawson and Hill. Strate has written several books about the history of the Bitterroot Valley, including one focused primarily on Mrs. Daly. He said the stories contained in those books can help keep local history alive. “The best thing about these books is they create conversations,” Strate said. When asked why he donated money for the headstones, Strate said, “I thought it was a good idea and it helps to close two stories of the many lives who gave their effort to the Daly Estate.” The headstones were installed in July, with the process aided by Daly-Leach Chapel and Crematory. For Lischka, the discovery of Dawson

and Hill’s unmarked graves was another example of the depth of history found throughout the Bitterroot Valley. Two additional unmarked plots are located nearby,

Larry Strate and Maureen Lischka in the records room below the Daly Mansion, holding a copy of Strate’s book. Photo by John Dowd. although Lischka said she does not know who is buried there. Her interest in the Daly family and its history has continued to grow throughout her years of volunteering. “I grew up with history all around me,” said Lischka, who was originally from Virginia. “As soon as I started reading about this family, I was just fascinated.” Lischka described the Dalys as incredible people and said their history becomes more fascinating the more she researches it. One example she cited was the story of one of the

Be {Extra} Bear Aware This Fall! It’s that time of year when bears need more calories. This fall, berry crops are poor and other foods are scarce due to the hot, dry summer. You may see bears around, but this isn’t necessarily a problem—they may just be moving through. The problems occur when bears get into human or pet foods, trash, or structures.

For more info: Visit MT Fish, Wildlife, & Parks’ website: fwp.mt.gov/bear-aware For help with fencing, trash cans, or more info, contact your local group: Bitterroot Bear Resources BitterrootBears@gmail.com

Daly daughters who married a count in Hungary. During World War II, the count was taken to a concentration camp, while the Daly daughter and her daughter were placed under house arrest by the Nazis. That granddaughter would later develop a story of her own in the Bitterroot Valley. She became known as “the duchess” and was recognized for her involvement with horses and as a champion of horses in the valley. For Lischka, stories like these are part of the appeal of local history. “The more you read about them, the more fascinated you become,” she said. The new Headstones for Robert Dawson and Guy Hill at Lischka said the Bitterroot Valley Hamilton Riverview cemetary. Photo by John Dowd. is packed with history, and the stories of people who worked behind the stones will be held Sept. 23 at the cemescenes at the Daly Estate are part of that tery. Volunteers from the Daly Mansion history. will gather at 3 p.m., and Lischka will Dawson and Hill are buried next to present the stories of Dawson and Hill. each other at Hamilton Riverview CemeStrate will also hold a book signing for tery in Section 8N. his book about Mrs. Daly at 6:30 p.m. on A commemoration of their new headSept. 17 at the Ravalli County Museum.

Make your life easier and help bears move on  Clean grills  Take down bird feeders until winter  Keep pet/animal foods inside  Store trash inside, or, if outside, in a bear-resistant can  Use electric fencing around: • Chickens, bees, goats, pigs, etc. • Fruit trees/bushes

NOTICE OF CLOSE OF REGULAR VOTER REGISTRATION AND OPTION FOR LATE REGISTRATION Notice is hereby given that regular* voter registration for the Federal General Election to be held on November 3, 2026, will close at 5 PM on October 5, 2026. *NOTE: If you miss this regular registration deadline, you may still register for the election by showing up at the Ravalli County Elections Office up to and including on Election Day. Between noon and the close of business on the day before Election Day, you can complete and submit a voter registration form, but you will need to return to the Ravalli County Elections Office on Election Day to pick up and vote a ballot. All active and inactive electors of the County of Ravalli are entitled to vote at said election.

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Inactive electors may reactivate by appearing at the polling place in order to vote, by requesting an absentee ballot in any election, or by notifying the County Election Administrator in writing of the elector’s current address in the county. Persons who wish to register and who are not presently registered may do so by requesting a form for registration by mail or by appearing at the Ravalli County Elections Office, 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, Montana. If you have moved, please update your registration information by filling out a new voter registration form and submitting it to the Ravalli County Elections Office.If you are not sure of your current voter registration status, you can check your status online at https://app.mt.gov/voterinfo, or you can call the Election Office at (406) 375-6550. Dated this 9th day of September, 2026 Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6550

Legal Notices Wednesday, September 16, 2026

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: MILES ANTHONY NELSEN, Deceased. Cause No.: DP-26-101 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 first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Sheryl J. West, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o LionWood Law PLLC, 115 W. 3rd Street, Suite 103, Stevensville, Montana 59870, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. DATED this day of 24th August 2026 /s/Sheryl J. West, 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 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Laura Lea Berner: Laura Lea Berner, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-26-356 Dept No.: 2 - Lint NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Laura Lea Berner to Laura Lea Franklin. The hearing will be on October 1, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated August 25, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/Catherine Di Gleria, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16, 9-23-2026. MNAXLP

gov

RAVALLI COUNTY ATTORNEY Bill Fulbright, County Attorney Ravalli County Courthouse 205 Bedford Street, Suite C Hamilton, MT 59840 E-mail: countyattorney@rc.mt.

Phone: (406) 375-6750 Fax: (406) 375-6731 MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF: A.R., A YOUTH IN NEED OF CARE Cause No. DN 26-5 Dept. 1 Howard F. Recht SUMMONS/CITATION FOR PUBLICATION TO: Kerina Lynn Moslander YOU ARE HEREBY NOTIFIED that an Petition for Emergency Protective Services and Temporary Legal Custody (“the Petition”) regarding, A.R, the child who is the subject of the above-captioned proceedings brought pursuant to Title 41, Chapter 3 of the Montana Code Annotated, has been filed in Cause No. DN-24-8 in Montana Twenty First Judicial District Court, in Ravalli County by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Child and Family Services Division (CFS), located at 108 Pinkney St, Hamilton, MT 59840. The Petition requests that CFS be granted the following relief: Emergency Protective Services; Adjudication as a Youth in Need of Care; A Determination that Preservation / Reunification Efforts Need Not Be Provided; Termination of Parental Rights; and Permanent Legal Custody. A copy of the Petition is filed with the Clerk of District Court for Ravalli County, (406) 375-6710 and is hereby served upon you at this time. The child who is the subject of the proceedings, A.R, was born on November 15, 2013. The child’s father is Ryan Randles. The child’s mother is Kerina Moslander. NOW, THEREFORE, YOU ARE HEREBY DIRECTED to appear at the hearing regarding the Petition that is set on the 14th day of October, 2026 at 2:30 p.m., at the Ravalli County Courthouse located at 205 Bedford St., Hamilton, Montana, then and there to show

cause, if any you may have, why CFS should not be granted the relief requested in the Petition. NOTICE: Your failure to appear at the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the child, which denial may result, without further notice of this proceeding or any subsequent proceeding, in judgment by default being entered for the relief requested in the Petition. You have the right to be represented by an attorney in these proceedings. If you are unable to afford an attorney, the Court will have an attorney appointed to represent you. WITNESS the Clerk of Court and the seal of the Court affixed this 26th day of August, 2026. /s/Paige Trautwein, Clerk of Court BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMIE LYNN MARTIN, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-2026-102 Dept. No.: 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Victoria Hunt has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Victoria Hunt, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd St., Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF FRANCIS EDWARD JOSEPH PETERSON, Deceased. Cause No. DP 26-104 Department No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the underisgned 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 first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Ravalli County Public Administrator, 205 Bedford Street, Suite C, Hamilton, MT 59840, return receipt requested, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. Dated: August 26, 2026. /s/Bill Fulbright, Ravalli County Attorney BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

PC

Michael P. Talia Hanna Warhank JACKSON, MURDO, & GRANT,

203 N. Ewing St. Helena, MT 59601 Phone: (406) 442-1300 Emails: mtalia@jmgattorneys. com hwarhank@jmgattorneys.com Attorneys for Trustee Linda C. Baker IN THE MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY LINDA C. BAKER, in her capacity as Trustee of the MARGARET E. DUNBAR REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, Plaintiff, v. JACOB L. DUNBAR, MONICA DUNBAR, ANA L. DUNBAR in her capacity as PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS H. DUNBAR, SALENA DUNBAR, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DAVID W. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF THOMAS E. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ED WETHERILL, and ALL PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, WHETHER THE CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendants. Cause No. DV-41-20260000291-QT Judge: Howard F. Recht SUMMONS THE STATE OF MONTANA sends greetings to the above-

named Defendant: THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF THOMAS E. POPHAM This action is brought, among other things, to quiet title to land located in Ravalli County, Montana: See Exhibit “A”, attached hereto. The objection of this action is to quiet title in the name of the Plaintiff, as fee simple owner, free of all liens and encumbrances. If you claim any interest, lien, or encumbrance upon that real property, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer Plaintiff’s Complaint to Quiet Title in this action which is filed in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to file your answer and serve a copy thereof upon Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment may be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in Plaintiff’s Complaint. WITNESS my hand the Seal of said Court this 26th day of August, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of Court /s/Michelle Goldman Exhibit A Legal Description Parcel 1 The SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana. Deed Reference: Book 78 of Deeds, page 378 and Instrument No. 600459. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 1 and 12, Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 55 of Deeds, page 454. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 5 and 6, Block 6, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 53 of Deeds, page 332 and Book 53 of Deeds, page 440. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM a tract of land, described as follows: Beginning at the southeast comer of said SE1/4SE1/4, thence west 512.5 feet, thence north 310 feet, thence east 100 feet, thence north 218 feet, thence east 412.5 feet to the east line of said SE1⁄41⁄4SE1⁄4, thence south to the place of beginning. Deed Reference: Book 220 of Deeds, pages 407 and 408. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Highway right-of-way, formerly Northern Pacific Railroad right-ofway. Deed Reference: Book 163 of Deeds, page 973. EXCEPTING THEREFROM that portion deed to the State of Montana as recorded in Instrument No. 570103. EXCEPTING THEREFROM A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218); thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 2 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218) feet; thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 3 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 25 rods West of the Southeast corner of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and running thence North 310 feet; thence West 100 feet; thence South 310 feet; thence due East 100 feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806152. Parcel 4 Lot 1 and Lot 12 of Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County,

Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

PC

Michael P. Talia Hanna Warhank JACKSON, MURDO, & GRANT,

203 N. Ewing St. Helena, MT 59601 Phone: (406) 442-1300 Emails: mtalia@jmgattorneys. com hwarhank@jmgattorneys.com Attorneys for Trustee Linda C. Baker IN THE MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY LINDA C. BAKER, in her capacity as Trustee of the MARGARET E. DUNBAR REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, Plaintiff, v. JACOB L. DUNBAR, MONICA DUNBAR, ANA L. DUNBAR in her capacity as PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS H. DUNBAR, SALENA DUNBAR, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DAVID W. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF THOMAS E. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ED WETHERILL, and ALL PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, WHETHER THE CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendants. Cause No. DV-41-20260000291-QT Judge: Howard F. Recht SUMMONS THE STATE OF MONTANA sends greetings to the abovenamed Defendant: THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ED WETHERILL This action is brought, among other things, to quiet title to land located in Ravalli County, Montana: See Exhibit “A”, attached hereto. The objection of this action is to quiet title in the name of the Plaintiff, as fee simple owner, free of all liens and encumbrances. If you claim any interest, lien, or encumbrance upon that real property, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer Plaintiff’s Complaint to Quiet Title in this action which is filed in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to file your answer and serve a copy thereof upon Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment may be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in Plaintiff’s Complaint. WITNESS my hand the Seal of said Court this 26th day of August, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of Court /s/Michelle Goldman Exhibit A Legal Description Parcel 1 The SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana. Deed Reference: Book 78 of Deeds, page 378 and Instrument No. 600459. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 1 and 12, Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 55 of Deeds, page 454. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 5 and 6, Block 6, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 53 of Deeds, page 332 and Book 53 of Deeds, page 440. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM a tract of land, described as follows: Beginning at the southeast comer of said SE1/4SE1/4, thence west 512.5 feet, thence north 310 feet, thence east 100 feet, thence north 218 feet, thence east 412.5 feet to the east line of said SE1⁄41⁄4SE1⁄4, thence south to the place of beginning. Deed Reference: Book 220 of Deeds, pages 407 and 408. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Highway right-of-way, formerly Northern Pacific Railroad right-ofway. Deed Reference: Book 163 of Deeds, page 973. EXCEPTING THEREFROM that portion deed to the State of Montana as recorded in Instrument No. 570103. EXCEPTING THEREFROM A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Town-

Bitterroot Star--Page 5

ship 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218); thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 2 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218) feet; thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 3 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 25 rods West of the Southeast corner of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and running thence North 310 feet; thence West 100 feet; thence South 310 feet; thence due East 100 feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806152. Parcel 4 Lot 1 and Lot 12 of Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

PC

Michael P. Talia Hanna Warhank JACKSON, MURDO, & GRANT,

203 N. Ewing St. Helena, MT 59601 Phone: (406) 442-1300 Emails: mtalia@jmgattorneys. com hwarhank@jmgattorneys.com Attorneys for Trustee Linda C. Baker IN THE MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY LINDA C. BAKER, in her capacity as Trustee of the MARGARET E. DUNBAR REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, Plaintiff, v. JACOB L. DUNBAR, MONICA DUNBAR, ANA L. DUNBAR in her capacity as PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS H. DUNBAR, SALENA DUNBAR, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DAVID W. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF THOMAS E. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ED WETHERILL, and ALL PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, WHETHER THE CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendants. Cause No. DV-41-20260000291-QT Judge: Howard F. Recht SUMMONS THE STATE OF MONTANA sends greetings to the abovenamed Defendant: THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DAVID W. POPHAM This action is brought, among other things, to quiet title to land located in Ravalli County, Montana: See Exhibit “A”, attached hereto. The objection of this action is to quiet title in the name of the Plaintiff, as fee simple owner, free of all liens and encumbrances. If you claim any interest, lien, or encumbrance upon that real property, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer Plaintiff’s Complaint to Quiet Title in this action which is filed in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to file your answer and serve a copy thereof upon Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and

in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment may be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in Plaintiff’s Complaint. WITNESS my hand the Seal of said Court this 26th day of August, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of Court /s/Michelle Goldman Exhibit A Legal Description Parcel 1 The SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana. Deed Reference: Book 78 of Deeds, page 378 and Instrument No. 600459. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 1 and 12, Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 55 of Deeds, page 454. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 5 and 6, Block 6, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 53 of Deeds, page 332 and Book 53 of Deeds, page 440. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM a tract of land, described as follows: Beginning at the southeast comer of said SE1/4SE1/4, thence west 512.5 feet, thence north 310 feet, thence east 100 feet, thence north 218 feet, thence east 412.5 feet to the east line of said SE1⁄41⁄4SE1⁄4, thence south to the place of beginning. Deed Reference: Book 220 of Deeds, pages 407 and 408. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Highway right-of-way, formerly Northern Pacific Railroad right-ofway. Deed Reference: Book 163 of Deeds, page 973. EXCEPTING THEREFROM that portion deed to the State of Montana as recorded in Instrument No. 570103. EXCEPTING THEREFROM A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218); thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 2 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218) feet; thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 3 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 25 rods West of the Southeast corner of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and running thence North 310 feet; thence West 100 feet; thence South 310 feet; thence due East 100 feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806152. Parcel 4 Lot 1 and Lot 12 of Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

PC

Michael P. Talia Hanna Warhank JACKSON, MURDO, & GRANT,

203 N. Ewing St. Helena, MT 59601 Phone: (406) 442-1300 Emails: mtalia@jmgattorneys. com hwarhank@jmgattorneys.com Attorneys for Trustee Linda C. Baker IN THE MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY LINDA C. BAKER, in her capacity as Trustee of the MARGARET E. DUNBAR REVOCABLE LIVING TRUST, Plaintiff,

Page 6--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

v. JACOB L. DUNBAR, MONICA DUNBAR, ANA L. DUNBAR in her capacity as PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE OF THE ESTATE OF THOMAS H. DUNBAR, SALENA DUNBAR, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF DAVID W. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF THOMAS E. POPHAM, THE HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ED WETHERILL, and ALL PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON THE PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, WHETHER THE CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendants. Cause No. DV-41-20260000291-QT Judge: Howard F. Recht SUMMONS THE STATE OF MONTANA sends greetings to the abovenamed Defendant: ALL PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN, CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFF’S OWNERSHIP OR ANY CLOUD UPON PLAINTIFF’S TITLE, WHETHER THE CLAIM OR POSSIBLE CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT This action is brought, among other things, to quiet title to land located in Ravalli County, Montana: See Exhibit “A”, attached hereto. The objection of this action is to quiet title in the name of the Plaintiff, as fee simple owner, free of all liens and encumbrances. If you claim any interest, lien, or encumbrance upon that real property, YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer Plaintiff’s Complaint to Quiet Title in this action which is filed in the Office of the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to file your answer and serve a copy thereof upon Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty-one (21) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment may be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in Plaintiff’s Complaint. WITNESS my hand the Seal of said Court this 26th day of August, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of Court /s/Michelle Goldman Exhibit A Legal Description Parcel 1 The SE1/4SE1/4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana. Deed Reference: Book 78 of Deeds, page 378 and Instrument No. 600459. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 1 and 12, Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 55 of Deeds, page 454. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM Lots 5 and 6, Block 6, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official

recorded plat thereof. Deed Reference: Book 53 of Deeds, page 332 and Book 53 of Deeds, page 440. ALSO EXCEPTING THEREFROM a tract of land, described as follows: Beginning at the southeast comer of said SE1/4SE1/4, thence west 512.5 feet, thence north 310 feet, thence east 100 feet, thence north 218 feet, thence east 412.5 feet to the east line of said SE1⁄41⁄4SE1⁄4, thence south to the place of beginning. Deed Reference: Book 220 of Deeds, pages 407 and 408. EXCEPTING THEREFROM Highway right-of-way, formerly Northern Pacific Railroad right-ofway. Deed Reference: Book 163 of Deeds, page 973. EXCEPTING THEREFROM that portion deed to the State of Montana as recorded in Instrument No. 570103. EXCEPTING THEREFROM A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218); thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 2 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point twenty-five (25) rods west, and three hundred and ten (310) feet north of the southeast corner of section thirty-six (36), township seven (7) north, range twenty-one (21) west, Montana Meridian, and running thence due north two hundred and eighteen (218) feet; thence west one hundred (100) feet; thence south two hundred and eighteen (218); thence east one hundred (100) feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806151. Parcel 3 A tract of land located in the SE1⁄4SE1⁄4SE1⁄4 of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and being more particularly described as follows: Beginning at a point 25 rods West of the Southeast corner of Section 36, Township 7 North, Range 21 West, and running thence North 310 feet; thence West 100 feet; thence South 310 feet; thence due East 100 feet to the place of beginning. Recording Reference Instrument No. 806152. Parcel 4 Lot 1 and Lot 12 of Block 1, West Woodside, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the official recorded plat thereof. BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

P.O. Box 1167 Hamilton, MT 59840 T: (406) 802-2198 kyle@workmanlawmt.com courts@workmanlawmt.com Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of MOLLY D. HACKETT, Deceased. Probate No. DR-41-20260000106-IT Dept. No. 2 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 said decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to BRUCE HACKETT, the Personal Representative, in care of WORKMAN LAW, PLLC, 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 1167, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed 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 correct. DATED this 28th day of August, 2026 /s/Bruce Hackett WORKMAN LAW, PLLC /s/Kyle J. Workman, Attorney for Personal Representative BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Jean Davis, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd St., Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. BS 9-9, 9-16, 9-23-2026. MNAXLP Lewis N. Stoddard, Bar No. 60723896 Halliday, Watkins & Mann, P.C. 300 W. Main Street, Suite 150 Boise, ID 83702 Phone: 801-355-2886 Facsimile: 801-328-9714 lewis@hwmlawfirm.com Attorney for Plaintiff HWM File Number: MT21479 MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT RAVALLI COUNTY UMB BANK, National Association, not in its individual capacity, but solely as Legal Title Trustee of PRL Title Trust II, Plaintiff, V. Unknown Heirs and Devisees of the Estate of Linda M. Battista; Robert Battista; Collection Bureau Services, Inc. a Montana Corporation; CB1 Inc., dba CBM Collections; and Unknown Parties in possession of or with an interest in the real property commonly known as: 4584 EastSide Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE Case No.: DV-41-20240000332-FO Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution issued in the above-entitled action on August 14, 2026, I am commanded to sell at public auction all of Defendants’ rights and interest to the below described property: A tract of land in the N1/2 S1/2 SW1/4 NW1/4 of Section 13, Township 9 North, Range 20 West, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana, and being more particularly described as Tract A, Certificate of Survey No. 3350, Commonly known as: 4584 EastSide Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870. Notice is hereby given that on September 30, 2026 at 10:00 AM on the front steps of the Ravalli County Courthouse at 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 the above-described property will be sold to the highest bidder to satisfy Plaintiff’s judgment, with interest and costs. Date: 08/26/2026. Sheriff/Deputy Sheriff of Ravalli County, State of Montana /s/Steve Holton **WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND ANYONE INTERESTED IN BIDDING ON ANY PROPERTY NOTICED FOR SALE RESEARCH THE OWNERSHIP OF THE PROPERTY THOROUGHLY PRIOR TO BIDDING** BS 9-9, 9-16, 9-23-2026. MNAXLP

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Joan Marie Hesselgrave Young: Joan Marie Hesselgrave Young, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-26-370 Dept No.: 1 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Joan Marie Hesselgrave Young to Joan Marie Hesselgrave. The hearing will be on October 14, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated August 27, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/Catherine Di Gleria, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 9-9, 9-16, 9-23, 9-30-2026. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES RAY NOFFSINGER, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-2026-75 Dept. No.: 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Jean Davis has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication

Kyle J. Workman State Bar No. 65442127 Workman Law, PLLC

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Jordan Cooper: Jordan Robert Cooper, Petitioner.

The Bitterroot Star Weather Summary

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

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Tuesday

Mostly Sunny

Sunny

Sunny

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Partly Cloudy

Sunny

70 / 37

75 / 40

78 / 42

80 / 45

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Corvallis School District #1 AUDIT PUBLICATION STATEMENT The financial and compliance audit for the Corvallis School District #1. Ravalli County, Montana has been conducted by WIPFLI. The audit report is for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024. Section 2-7-521, MCA requires this notice be published informing the public the audit report is on filed in its entirety and open to public inspection at the District Administration Office, 1151 Eastside Highway, Corvallis MT 59828. A copy of the audit report will be sent to any interested person upon request by contacting Jolene Tollenaar, Corvallis School District, Director of Business Services at (406) 961-4211. BS 9-16-2026. MNAXLP County Transportation Meeting The Ravalli County Transportation Committee will meet on the 24th day of September, 2026 at 1:00PM in the Commissioner’s Conference Room at the Administration Building (215 S 4th Street) in Hamilton. The purpose of this meeting will be to approve/make adjustments to school transportation routes and approve any individual transportation contracts for the 2026-27 school year. If you have any questions or comments regarding any school district’s bus routes, please attend the meeting or send them to the Ravalli County Superintendent of Schools, 215

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 Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of LOUIS E. BUNGE JR., Deceased. Probate No. DR-41-20260000115-IT Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Co-Personal Representatives of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to SCOTT BUNGE and DAWN BUNGE, the Co-Personal Representatives, in care of WORKMAN LAW, PLLC, 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 1167, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. We declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. DATED this 14th day of September, 2026 /s/Scott Bunge /s/Dawn Bunge WORKMAN LAW, PLLC /s/Kyle J. Workman, Attorney for Personal Representative BS 9-16, 9-23, 9-30-2026. MNAXLP

Looking for the Bitterroot Star? It’s FREE on more than 100 newsstands from Lolo to Conner. Or call us at 777-3928 and we’ll let you know where the closest stand is.

Detailed Local Forecast

0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High, 11+: Extreme Exposure

Today we will see mostly sunny skies, high temperature of 70°, humidity of 58%. North wind 5 mph. The record high temperature for today is 91° set in 1937. Expect clear skies tonight, overnight low of 37°. North wind 1 to 5 mph. The record low for tonight is 27° set in 1970. Thursday, skies will be sunny, high temperature of 75°, humidity of 49%. Light winds. Thursday night, skies will be clear, overnight low of 40°. Light winds. Friday, skies will be sunny, high of 78°, humidity of 45%.

Weather Trivia

Peak Fishing/Hunting Times This Week

0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+

A F-1 tornado has wind speeds of?

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIS C. PALMER, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-2026-112 Dept. No.: 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Cathleen Palmer has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Cathleen Palmer, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd St., Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. BS 9-16, 9-23, 9-30-2026. MNAXLP

South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (email recorder@rc.mt.gov) prior to September 24th. BS 9-16-2026. MNAXLP

Crossword Puzzle

Bitterroot Seven Day Forecast

Local UV Index

Cause No.: DV-26-377 Dept No.: HOWARD F. RECHT NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is a notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Jordan Robert Cooper to Jordan Robert Reiter. The hearing will be on October 14, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated August 31, 2026. Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court /s/Sarah Gingerich-Sargent, Deputy Clerk of Court BS 9-16, 9-23, 9-30, 10-72026. MNAXLP

?

Day Wed Thu Fri Sat

Answer: 73 to 112 mph.

Weather History Sept. 16, 1989 - Showers and thunderstorms, representing what remained of Hurricane Octave, brought locally heavy rains to California, impeding the drying process for raisins and other crops. Sacramento, Calif. was soaked with 1.53 inches of rain in six hours. Sept. 17, 1965 - A storm produced a band of heavy snow across parts of Wyoming. Totals of 23 inches at Rawlins and 20.7 inches at Lander easily surpassed previous snowfall record totals for so early in the season.

Peak Times AM PM 4:29-6:29 4:54-6:54 5:20-7:20 5:45-7:45 6:11-8:11 6:37-8:37 7:02-9:02 7:28-9:28

Day Sun Mon Tue

Peak Times AM PM 7:53-9:53 8:17-10:17 8:42-10:42 9:05-11:05 9:29-11:29 9:51-11:51

www.WhatsOurWeather.com

Sun/Moon Chart This Week Day Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue

First 9/18

Full 9/26

Sunrise 7:15 a.m. 7:16 a.m. 7:18 a.m. 7:19 a.m. 7:20 a.m. 7:22 a.m. 7:23 a.m.

Sunset 7:45 p.m. 7:43 p.m. 7:41 p.m. 7:39 p.m. 7:37 p.m. 7:35 p.m. 7:33 p.m.

Moonrise 1:50 p.m. 2:53 p.m. 3:48 p.m. 4:34 p.m. 5:10 p.m. 5:38 p.m. 6:01 p.m.

Moonset 9:54 p.m. 10:35 p.m. 11:26 p.m. Next Day 12:25 a.m. 1:31 a.m. 2:41 a.m.

Last 10/3

New 10/10

Last Week's Almanac & Growing Degree Days Date 9/6 9/7 9/8 9/9 9/10 9/11 9/12

High 68 60 67 76 83 71 71

Low 55 50 42 40 42 51 49

Normals Precip 77/45 0.69" 77/45 0.77" 77/44 0.00" 76/44 0.00" 76/44 0.00" 75/43 0.08" 75/43 0.00"

Farmer's Growing Degree Days Date Degree Days Date Degree Days 9/6 11 9/10 12 9/7 5 9/11 11 9/8 4 9/12 10 9/9 8 Growing degree days are calculated by taking the average temperature for the day and subtracting the base temperature (50 degrees) from the average to assess how many growing days are attained.

ACROSS 1. Loose gown worn at mass 4. Erase 10. Palter 11. Golf score 12. Trinitrotoluene 13. Relating to the bride 14. Discrimination based on age 16. Distress call 17. Rolled chocolate candy brand 18. Street (abbr.) 20. We 22. __ matter 26. Fire remains 29. Of this 31. Applauds 33. Period 34. Appear (2 wds.) 35. “To the right!” 36. Pedantic 37. Make a mistake

DOWN 1. Holy table 2. Slang 3. Pepper plant 4. Tides 5. Who lawyers work for 6. Day of the week (abbr.) 7. Totals 8. See ya! 9. Snaky fish 15. Promissory note 19. Sticky black substance 21. Raise one’s shoulders 23. Ridge 24. Cow 25. Not before 26. Fifth book in the New Testament 27. Become closed 28. Big sandwich 30. Spot 32. Omega

© Feature Exchange

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Bitterroot Star--Page 7

Ionic Lodge 38: more than a century of friendship, growth, giving back by John Dowd For more than a century, the Ionic Lodge No. 38 of the Ancient Free and Accepted Masons has been a part of life in the Bitterroot Valley, offering its members a place to build friendships and improve themselves while giving back to the community. The lodge traces its presence in the valley to around 1897. Its current building, a familiar part of Hamilton’s history, has housed the lodge since 1915. For Roderick “Dutch” Brewer, a past master of the lodge, Freemasonry is less about secrecy or ceremony than it is about personal growth and the relationships formed along the way “Masonry” is, Brewer explained, fundamentally about the pursuit of improving oneself. Brewer came to the organization after a golfing partner asked if he wanted to learn more about the Freemasons. At the time, Brewer said, he was looking for something. His background as a history major also made the organization’s long history particularly appealing. “The history was fascinating to me,” Brewer said. Freemasonry traces its modern roots to the formation of organized grand lodges in the 1700s, although Masonic traditions draw on older stonemason guilds and symbolism. The fraternity spread throughout Europe and eventually to North America, where local lodges became gathering places for men from different backgrounds. Today, Masonic organizations around the world emphasize fellowship, moral development, charity and service. For Brewer, however, the people he encountered ultimately became just as important as the history. He described fellow Masons as honorable, noble, charitable and intelligent, saying he enjoyed their company and the opportunity to grow as a person. “They were simply impressive.” He described the lodge as “the one place two people, diametrically different, can talk, laugh and get along.” That ability to bring people together is part of what Brewer values about the lodge. Politics and religion are not discussed in the lodge, particularly in a way that could turn those subjects into arguments. Members can hold their own political views and practice their own religions outside the lodge. There are relatively few requirements for membership, Brewer said. Members must be male, believe in a higher power and

believe in the existence of a human soul. Beyond those requirements, members can come from different religious, political and philosophical backgrounds. The lodge does not recruit members. Instead, prospective Masons must find their own way to the organization. That does not mean members cannot answer questions about Freemasonry, Brewer said, although there are portions of Masonic practice that members keep private. The lodge also opens its doors to the broader community through presentations held Tuesday nights at 7 p.m. Bikes4Books event at Daly Elementary. Photo Courtesy Ionic Lodge #38. The programs cover a wide Police Department, Ravalli County Sheriff’s liance and Moon Eagle River Ranch in Sula range of subjects, from history to comdeputies, ambulance services and the Monthrough financial and volunteer labor. It mon-sense medicine. “I just love Tuesday tana Highway Patrol. has donated food and cooking labor for the nights; It feels so safe,” Brewer said. Brewer said the lodge started the awards Veterans Resource Fair and provides space Those presentations are one part of a because members “felt there wasn’t that for activities benefiting local organizations. broader effort by Ionic Lodge No. 38 to kind of recognition here, in the valley.” The Bitterroot Children’s Museum make its building and its members a resourThe lodge did not hold the ceremony is another beneficiary. The lodge provice for the Bitterroot Valley. this year because some of the participating des event space for the museum’s annual The lodge hosts programs covering organizations wanted to hold their own Gingerbread House activity and, this year, topics such as hunter safety, first aid, estate award ceremonies. Lodge members wanhosted a month-long Tinker Toys display planning and college safety. The hunter ted to recognize all of the groups together and toy-building workshop. safety program focuses on safety, first aid, rather than only some of them, Brewer said. The lodge also holds annual donation communication and emergency planning They hope to bring the event back in the drives and supports fundraising efforts for for hunters, fishermen and backcountry future if all of the groups are on board. Hamilton S.A.F.E. explorers, with presentations developed The lodge has also hosted an annual Not every community event can contiand delivered by medical professionals, dinner with the Hamilton Volunteer Fire nue every year. The lodge’s free haunted law enforcement officers and experienced Department as a way of showing apprehouse, which has been open to the public outdoorsmen. ciation for the department’s service to the as an activity for local children, will not be The first aid program covers emergency community. held this year. Members are undertaking first aid practices and recommendations for Its community activities extend to renovations to the building, and the work first aid kits and home medicine cabinets. children and families as well. The lodge’s will conflict with the lodge’s ability to host An estate-planning presentation addresses Bikes4Books and Kindles4Kids programs the haunted house. Lodge members hope to basic estate-planning documents and conprovide bicycles, electronic reading devices bring the event back in the future. siderations, including local funeral home or, more recently, gift cards to Chapter One For Brewer, all of those efforts come programs. Bookstore in Hamilton to students in the back to the same principle that first drew The college safety program is geared Hamilton and Darby school districts. Teahim to Masonry: becoming a better person toward recent high school graduates, parchers select winners or organize drawings. while helping the people around you. ticularly young women preparing for their Bikes4Books is the lodge’s longest-running More than a century after Ionic Lodge first year of college. The program addresses community program, Brewer said, and has No. 38 established itself in the Bitterroot avoiding dangerous situations, staying safe been held annually for roughly 10 to 15 Valley, its members continue to meet in the and options for conflict resolution, with years. same building, welcome the public for Tupresentations developed by law enforceThe lodge also supports organizations esday-night presentations and look for ways ment officers and parents. throughout the valley. It provides meeting to serve their community. The lodge has also sought to recognize space and storage for the Hamilton chapter And for Brewer, the value of the lodge people who serve the community. of Project Healing Waters, which meets remains as much about the people as the It established an annual First Responder twice a month and uses the space to store programs. It is a place, he said, where peoAwards program recognizing the Hamilfly-fishing and fly-tying equipment. ple who may have little else in common can ton Volunteer Fire Department, Hamilton The lodge supports Veterans Victory Alsit together, talk, laugh and get along.

MAYOR: Stevi addresses mayoral authority, new event, police vehicle purchase Continued from page 1 of eyewash stations and repairs to several sensors. The council also discussed purchasing a used truck to replace the Stevensville police chief’s current vehicle. Police Chief John Boe said the existing truck has not been replaced in years and is in rough condition. During this public comment, Michalson questioned the use of town funds for the purchase. He said the money had been set aside as a capital asset fund for water and sewer projects and should not be used for a police vehicle. “It wasn’t a slush fund for police vehicles,” Michalson said. “Our infrastructure is failing, folks.” Town Finance Officer Robert Underwood said using the money for the vehicle would function essentially as an internal loan. According to him, the town’s major water and sewer projects, including improvements to the wastewater treatment plant, are multimillion-dollar projects that will require outside funding such as government grants. He said the capital fund would not be sufficient to complete those projects on its own. Under the proposed arrangement, the police department would repay the money to the town with interest and “the interest goes to the water and sewer. It’s kind of a win-win,” Underwood said.

The police department has also been raising money for other equipment upgrades through fundraisers, including their annual chili cook-off event. The council ultimately moved forward with the purchase of a 2020 Chevrolet with approximately 65,000 miles for $38,000. The vehicle is being purchased from a business that refurbishes used emergency vehicles and prepares them for smaller departments. The truck already has several modifications required for police use, as well as additional non-required factory add-ons, which officials said would otherwise have cost the town thousands. Council Member Wally Smith said the purchase represented significant value because of the equipment already installed on the vehicle. Smith said a similar vehicle without the police-specific upgrades could cost the town at least $45,000. “All in all, this is a very good deal,” Smith said.

Now available — Hwy. 93 Frontage!

The council also heard from Stevensville Civic Club President Eli Madero, who presented plans for a new community Trunk-or-Treat event. Madero said the goal is to bring several Halloween events from throughout the area together at a central downtown location, rather than having individual events scattered among churches and other locations. The event is intended to emphasize what Madero called a “community gathering.” Madero said residents sometimes express a desire to bring the Creamery Picnic back into the center of town. While he understands that interest, he said moving the picnic downtown is not feasible because it is the town’s largest event and draws thousands of people. The Civic Club’s proposed Trunk-or-Treat

is intended, in part, to bring people downtown and near local businesses. “I wanna bring some life to Main Street,” Madero said. He described Stevensville’s Main Street and downtown as beautiful but said the area is not being used to its full potential. “We want to utilize the amazing Main Street that the town has,” Madero said. The proposed event would include one or two food trucks and portable toilets. Some streets will be closed during the event, with local law enforcement assisting with traffic and pedestrian safety. Council member Melissa Baby raised concerns about children crossing roads in certain areas, but the Civic Club’s plan seems sound. After discussion, the Town Council approved the event.

Mini

STEM GRANTS

This year, 200 Ignite Minds STEM Mini-Grants will be awarded to Montana schools with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Mini-Grants ($1,000 each) are not intended to fund entire projects, but to support collaboration, address gaps and support budgets, and share exemplary practices. If you are interested in receiving a grant, please complete the Ignite Minds grant application at www.townpumpfoundation.com.

2021 US Hwy. 93 N  Victor, MT

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 $375,000.00  MLS #30077707

Cheryl G. Smith, Broker, MBA, CRS Bitterroot Valley Specialist 514 N. 1st Street  Hamilton Phone: 406.880.6650 cheryl@eralambros.com 2023-2024 LEADER’S CIRCLE

Experience you can trust!

y: Applications due b

OCT. 16 OC2026

Page 8--Bitterroot Star

Sports Wednesday, September 16, 2026

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

Corvallis Cross Country Invitational The Cross Country teams from 10 area high schools gathered in Corvallis on Saturday, September 12, for the annual Corvallis Cross Country Invitational. The Bitterroot teams from Corvallis, Darby, Hamilton, Stevensville, and Victor were among the participants.

(21:53.36).

Boys’ results

Darby senior Ben Martin won the boys race with a time of 16:28.71, which was nearly 40 seconds faster than second place. Hamilton’s Benjamin Beare took 3rd (17:17.88), and Corvallis’s Braden Anderson took 4th Girls’ results (17:30.81). Hamilton senior Also for CorvalAleigha Child scorched lis, Jeremy Davidson the field and won the took 7th (17:49.61), girls’ race with a time Soren Watt took 8th of 19:04.22. Hamilton’s (18:01.19), Jonas Reecelyn Walthall took Davidson took 9th 2nd (19:54.06), and Ha- (18:23.01), and Nick milton’s Maevie Child Venema took 14th took 3rd (21:14.72). (19:18.11). Corvallis took the next Also for Hamilton, three spots as Ellie Ber- Kennie Cords took ger took 4th (21:25.42), 18th (19:53.61), and Natalie Huls took 5th Orion Tison took 27th (21:26.36), and Cheyen- (20:36.11). ne Herbert took 6th Stevensville’s (21:46.72). highest finisher was Darby’s Brooklyn Waylon Jochim in 22nd Rogers took 7th (20:05.55). Darby’s Ben Martin (right) won the boys race and Hamilton’s Aleigha Child (left) won the girls race at the 2026 Corvallis Cross Country Invitational in Corvallis on Saturday, September 12. Photos by Scott Sacry.

Bitterroot football scores

Florence Falcons flummox Fairfield The #2 Florence Falcons (406 MT Sports football rankings) defeated the #5 Fairfield Eagles 34-33 on Friday, September 11, in Fairfield. As you would suspect from a game between two of the top teams in the state, the outcome wasn’t decided until the end of the fourth quarter. Florence led 34-20 late in the game, then Fairfield scored twice in the fourth quarter. Their second touchdown came with under a minute to play in the game, and Florence led 34-33. Fairfield looked to kick a PAT to tie the game, but the holder took the snap and threw an incomplete pass, and Florence held on for the 34-33 victory. Florence senior quarterback Jake Schneiter had another big game. Schneiter completed 18 of 25 passes for 275 yards and threw four touchdowns; he also rushed for 69 yards and a touchdown. On defense, Schneiter led the Falcons with 12 total tackles and a sack. Florence running back Luca Caldarone had 13 carries for 95 yards, and had five receptions for 81 yards and a touchdown. Florence receivers Makoah Laasch, Brennan Meinhold, and Landon Sirevaag each had a touchdown reception. On defense, Florence’s Christian Englund had 11 total tackles and a sack. This was the third straight week that Florence has played a top-five Class B team. They lost to #2 Three Forks 2834 in their first game, then defeated #1 Manhattan 33-20 in their second game, and now they defeated #5 Fairfield. Florence’s grueling non-conference schedule continues this week as they host

defending Class A State Champion Frenchtown on Friday, September 18. Class A #1 Frenchtown was ranked #1 in Class A before they lost 17-21 in their last game to #2 Billings Central.

Hamilton 41, Libby 0 The Hamilton Broncs traveled to Libby on Friday, September 11, to play the Loggers. Hamilton controlled the game throughout and felled the Loggers 41-0. Individually for Hamilton, senior running back Jude Widmer had 13 rushes for 100 yards and three touchdowns, quarterback Cooper Weston completed 9 of 12 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns, and both Easton Hollis and Kaeden Gum had touchdown receptions. On defense, Cash Williams led the Broncs with 9 total tackles and 1.5 sacks. Hamilton (2-1) has a bye this week. The following week on Friday, September 25, Hamilton hosts Stevensville. Corvallis 0, #4 Whitefish 31 Corvallis played at #4 Whitefish (406 MT Sports) on Friday, September 11, and lost 0-31. Corvallis played hard but was unable to generate enough offense to hang with Florence senior QB Jake Schneiter (#15) scored five total touchdowns in #2 Florence’s 34-33 victory over #5 Fairfield the Bulldogs. Marshall Jessop led on Friday, September 11, in Fairfield. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography. the Blue Devils with 14 total tackles, and Ayden Spencer and Payton Stevensville 50, Park 13 then exploded in the second half scoring 38 Lewis each had 11 total tackles. The Stevensville Yellowjackets won their points to earn the lopsided victory. Corvallis (1-2) has a bye this week, second game in a row on Friday, SeptemStevensville (2-1) has a bye this week, then hosts Butte Central on Friday, ber 11, in Livingston as they defeated Park then travels to Hamilton on Friday, SepSeptember 25. 50-13. Stevensville led 12-7 at halftime, tember 25.

Bitterroot volleyball roundup The Florence and Darby volleyball teams played in Florence on Thursday, September 10, in an all-Bitterroot matchup. The Falcons were too much for the visiting Tigers, and Florence won 3-0 (25-2, 25-8, 25-8). On Saturday, Florence played at Arlee and won 3-0 (25-12, 25-17, 25-17). Darby played at Loyola on Saturday and lost 0-3 (8-25, 2-25, 13-25). Hamilton played at Polson on Thursday, September 10, and lost 1-3 (17-25, 23-25, 25-13, 21-25). For Hamilton, Jade Jimenez had 17 digs. Morgan Lubke had 32 assists. Ella Griffin had 10 kills and 12 digs,

Reyanna Gum had 13 kills and 3 blocks, Avery Raszler had 17 digs, and Kaitlyn Snavely had 6 kills and 6 blocks. Stevensville played at Butte Central on Thursday, September 10, and won 3-0 (25-14, 25-21, 25-19). On Saturday, Stevensville hosted Libby and won 3-1. Victor hosted Seeley-Swan on Thursday, September 10, and lost 0-3. Then on Friday, Victor lost to Drummond 0-3 (21-25, 8-25, 10-25). Corvallis played at Ronan on Thursday, Sept. 10, and lost 2-3.

The Florence and Darby volleyball teams played in Florence on Thursday, September 10. On left Darby’s Austin Hackel, on right Florence’s Alexis Danczyk. Florence won 3-0. Photos by Scott Sacry.

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Bitterroot Star--Page 9

Stevi soccer to dedicate fields to Serrette The Stevensville boys and girls soccer teams host Corvallis on Saturday, September 19, in an all-Bitterroot Valley matchup. The contest has added significance as the Stevensville Soccer Complex will be renamed the Serrette Soccer Complex in honor of Ralph Serrette during a pregame ceremony. The ceremony starts at 11 a.m., after which the boys play at 12 p.m., and the girls play at 2 p.m. Bitterroot soccer legend Ralph Serrette passed away in September of 2024. Serrette and Stevensville Soccer were intertwined for 30-plus years. Serrette started coaching the Stevensville High School boys team in 1995, and was a coach and leader for Stevensville Club Soccer. Serrette organized years worth of tournaments, fundraisers, trips, and team rosters. Generations of Stevensville’s youth have been positively influenced by Serrette’s dedication to soccer. Specifically, Serrette took meticulous care of the Stevensville soccer fields. Serrette spent countless hours planning, building, and caring for the soccer fields, so it is only natu-

ral that the Stevensville complex be named in his honor. “For Ralph, it was always about the kids,” said Cathi Cook, an organizer for the dedication. “Above anything else, Ralph just wanted all the kids to have an opportunity to play soccer. If kids needed cleats, he would get them cleats. If a goalie needed help, he got them to a goalie camp. He worked tirelessly to build Stevensville soccer, help the kids, and maintain the fields.” There is also a new archway at the entrance of the new Serrette Soccer Complex. Mike and Brooke Flynn were the visionaries behind building an archway as a way to help commemorate the field to Serrette. The Flynns helped with the building and got local businesses and community members to help fund the project. Bitterroot Valley soccer fans and community members are invited to attend the dedication ceremony at the Stevensville soccer fields at 11 a.m. on The Stevensville Soccer Complex will be renamed the Serrette Soccer Complex in honor of Ralph Serrette during a pregame ceremony on Saturday, September 19, at the Stevi soccer fields. Photo by Scott Sacry. Saturday, September 19.

Corvallis, Stevensville golf results

The Corvallis and Stevensville boys and girls golf teams played alongside 12 other high school teams at Eagle Bend in Bigfork on Thursday, September 10, in the Steve Hullett Invitational.

The Corvallis boys and girls teams took 1st place, while the Stevensville boys tied for 4th, and the Stevensville girls took 4th. Individually for the Corvallis boys, Dylan Wirt took 2nd (75), Coby Powell tied for 6th

(79), and Tanner Sorensen tied for 15th (86). Individually for the Corvallis girls, Chloe Clements took 6th (93), Kirsten Race took 7th (95), and Gracee Storrud took 11th (98). Individually for the Stevensville girls,

Evelynn Driskell took 2nd place (87), and Jocelyn Lambert took 13th (102). Individually for the Stevensville boys, James Muir tied for 14th (85), and Kyler Wyant tied for 15th (86).

St. Francis of Assisi 800 year Anniversary Jubilee

Sept. Sundays  FRANCIS FEST

 Following 9 a.m. Mass - TALKS Vatican II & the Francis Connection by John Bacon

Sat., October 3rd FRANCIS FEST

 10 a.m. - First Saturday Mass with Eucharistic Procession through Hamilton Streets  5 p.m. - Vigil Mass

Sun., October 4th FRANCIS FEST

411 S 5th Street  Hamilton www.StFrancisHamilton.org Sponsored in part by the Foundation of the Diocese of Helena

 11 a.m. Mass - Feast of St. Francis of Assisi  12:15ish - Blessing of Animals on the Lawn  Judging of the RIB COOKOFF  Community Meal RIBS - “BRATS” - BURGERS w/potluck  BEER - MUSIC - PHOTO BOOTH  2:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. - Life Chain (option) Flower Mart  All afternoon - FAMILY LAWN GAMES FUN/MINISTRY booths, everyone welcome  BLESSED MEDALS - HOLY CARDS - RAFFLE

Page 10--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Dolly Parton’s legacy lives on through books in the Valley by Mike Hudgins On August 25, the world lost Dolly Parton. Her music and personality brought joy to millions, but her legacy reaches far beyond the songs she left behind. Sometime this month, and every month after, children across the Bitterroot Valley will go to their mailboxes and find another book waiting for them, courtesy of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. The program mails a free book each month to children from birth to age five. Here in Ravalli County, Syble Solomon has helped make sure Dolly’s mission reaches local families. In the days following Parton’s death, interest in the program surged. Solomon said the local program would typically receive two or three new registrations at a time, or maybe 10 following an event. The night after Parton’s death, 50 children were registered. When Solomon went to process them, she found 17,000 children nationwide already waiting to be registered. Within a week, about 80 new children had been registered locally. Solomon said the response was another reminder of just how far Dolly’s influence reached. “I have found it incredibly overwhelming,” Solomon said of the worldwide reaction to Parton’s death. Solomon had admired Dolly long before becoming involved with the Imagination Library. About 25 years ago, while starting her own business, she read biographies of successful people she respected, including Dolly. “She was just authentic and believed in herself,” Solomon said. Dolly started the Imagination Library in 1995 in her home county in Tennessee. What began as a local effort eventually

spread across the country and internationally. Solomon brought the program to Ravalli County about six years ago. Before getting started, she contacted other Imagination Library programs around Montana to learn how they were funded and organized. With support from the local Elks Lodge and Sapphire Community Health serving as the nonprofit partner, the Ravalli County program became official that May. Solomon’s grandson and his cousin were the first two children registered, followed by 30 children from Head Start. That first group of 32 received their books in July. Today, the program averages about 1,250 to 1,300 children each month. “We have children from every single town, from Sula to Florence,” Solomon said. Hamilton has the largest enrollment, with Stevensville close behind, but Solomon said participation extends throughout the county. She estimates there are about 2,000 children under age five in Ravalli County. The program is now partnered locally with the Bitterroot Early Learning Network, and libraries in Hamilton, Stevensville and Darby also help families learn about and register for the program. For Solomon, however, the value of the program isn’t the number of books arriving in mailboxes. Reading with young children exposes them to words they may rarely encounter in ordinary conversation, while the stories themselves can give children and parents ways to talk about emotions, differences and difficult days. “It gives them words,” Solomon said. She also appreciates that the program is open to every child, regardless of

Syble Solomon started the Ravalli County Imagination Library program nearly six years ago. Here she stands with her cutout of Dolly Parton, the program’s founder. Photo by Mike Hudgins.

a family’s income. There is no financial qualification to participate, and families aren’t asked to contribute when they enroll. The universal eligibility also removes any stigma associated with receiving the books. No one knows whether a participating family is struggling financially or has plenty of money. “Every single child from birth to five, all they have to do is register,” she said. Keeping those books coThe Imagination Library program is open to anyone with children from birth ming does to age five. There is no cost and no income-based requirements. Photo by require Mike Hudgins. local

support. Solomon said the books currently cost close to $3 each, including shipping directly to the child’s home. First Security Bank was an early major sponsor, and A2Z Personnel later held a fundraiser that raised $25,000 for the program. Grants and other community organizations have also helped keep it funded. First Lady Susan Gianforte later helped expand the Imagination Library statewide through the Treasure State Foundation, which now covers half of the Ravalli County program’s costs. The local program is responsible for raising the remainder. Despite Parton’s death, Solomon said parents shouldn’t expect the books to stop showing up. “It’s totally set up,” she said. “There’s not going to be any changes.” Dolly’s family remains committed to the program, Solomon said, and the organization she created has grown far beyond the small Tennessee community where it began. For children in the Bitterroot Valley, that means another book will arrive next month, and another after that. Many of them may be too young to know Dolly’s music or understand why her death prompted thousands of new registrations across the country. But they will know her books, and if that were the only thing she did, that would be enough. To learn more or register a child, visit imaginationlibrary.com.

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Opinion Wednesday, September 16, 2026

9/11

My wife and I are in New York City these days visiting my sister. Coincidentally, it is also the Memorial of 9/11. My sister‘s son worked in the World Trade Center on the highest floor that was able to get out of the building before it collapsed. Many of his friends were killed that day, and my sister and brother-in-law spent many days attending funerals for friends and neighbors. My wife and I visited the site of the attack about three weeks after it occurred. The smoke and ash was still rising into the air at the time. The 2977 people who were killed that morning are being remembered today with the reading of their names. The 441 First Responders who ran into the buildings in the face of death are also being remembered. New York City Mayor Mamdani recently released 170,000 pages of hearings and investigations regarding this tragic incident. Official estimates are that many more thousands of people have died over the years due, either directly or indirectly, to the air quality resulting from this incident. Two planes crashed into the World Trade Center, a third plane crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania, as it was heading for Washington, DC. While enroute, the 44 passengers revolted and attacked the pilots. The plane crashed in a field out of harms way. A fourth plane hit the Pentagon building in Washington, DC. The one positive result of this tragedy was that it brought all Americans together of whatever political persuasion, religious affiliation, or economic status. We joined together to help those in need whether they were the 2977 victims in the World Trade Center, the 44 souls that lost their lives in Shanksville or the 189 who died in the Pentagon attack. We were all Americans wanting to help in any way we could. It is unfortunate that we have become a country now so divided racially, ethnically, religiously, economically, and politically. Let us hope that one day we will rekindle the spirit of 9/11! Tom Tunny Hamilton

Florence, Stevi, Schroedel’s your candidate!

(To the tune of “Heaven”) Evan… Vote for Evan… He’s the real Montanan, Knows whereof he speaks. And his voice in Helena Is what we seek. So we’re out campaigning with him Week to week. Yvonne Gritzner Florence

Let data centers pay

Lately, data centers have been appearing in the news almost as often as politicians, which means we should probably keep one hand on our wallets. A data center is essentially an enormous building filled with computers. We need them for banking, medical records, communications, the internet and artificial intelligence. I am not against technology. At 83 years old, I have learned that opposing progress usually accomplishes about as much as standing in the Bitterroot River and ordering the water to turn around. But progress ought to pay its own way. These facilities can consume as much electricity as a small city, and some require tremendous amounts of water for cooling. Building them may require new power plants, transmission lines, substations and water infrastructure. Before Montana welcomes them with tax incentives and a freshly baked pie, somebody should tell us

who will pay for all of that. If a multibillion-dollar corporation needs the electricity, the corporation should finance the infrastructure. The cost should not quietly find its way onto the monthly bills of Montana families, farmers and small businesses. Supporters also promise jobs—and construction certainly creates them. Electricians, equipment operators, concrete workers and other tradespeople may remain busy for several years. That is real employment and should not be dismissed. However, once construction ends, most of those workers pack their tools and move to the next project. A building containing thousands of computers does not necessarily employ thousands of people. Computers neither take lunch breaks nor buy groceries downtown. Before granting special treatment, local officials should ask how many permanent, locally hired workers will remain after the ribbon-cutting photographs are taken. Montanans deserve straightforward answers: How much electricity and water will the facility consume? How many permanent jobs will it create? What tax reductions will it receive? Who pays for the necessary infrastructure? And who is responsible if the project fails or closes? This should not be a Republican or Democratic issue. It is simply good stewardship. Data centers may become an important part of Montana’s future. If they bring genuine benefits while protecting our water, power supply and taxpayers, welcome them. But a corporation wealthy enough to build a giant warehouse full of computers is wealthy enough to pay its own electric and water bill. Montanans should not be asked to pass the hat. Bob Spitzer Stevensville

3,800 helicopter hops?

Did the representatives of the Bitterroot National Forest raise any questions about the impact of helicopter flights on elk calves and their mothers? My first elk hunt in the upper West Fork was in 1968. I lived on Trapper Creek and hunted elk in the West Fork for 38 years. I estimate 90 per cent of the West Fork elk herd utilizes the area under the proposed helicopter flight path for calving. Here’s what I found out about how approving the proposed “USMC Exploration” permit under a categorical exclusion will most likely impact them. Long Term Monitoring by the Absaroka Elk Ecology Project* performed by Wyoming Cooperative Fish and Wildlife Research Unit, the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service sheds light on the impact of large predator impacts on cow calf mortality. On average a response was measured when the predator breached a 1 km kilometer (approximately 3,300 ft.) safety zone. On average collared elk in the study encountered an apex predator once per week during the calving season. The altitude difference between where Sheep Creek enters the West fork (5600 ft,) and Conner (4,030) is just under 1600 ft In order to avoid triggering this response, the flight path of the 3800 helicopter trips proposed by USMC to transport high grade ore samples would need ascend to an altitude of 8900 ft at Sheep Creek and gradually descend to an altitude of 7300 ft at Conner before landing. Prohibiting / banning helicopter flights for 90 days during calving and nursing season is the 2nd option. Quantitative Impacts of Calving-Ground Disturbance While an isolated helicopter flight may only cause temporary flight behavior, a high frequency of overflights—such as a portion of the 2,200 flights planned by USCM over a single season—creates chronic, additive stress: [1]

1. The Disturbance Threshold: Controlled studies tracking human and motorized disruptions on elk calving grounds indicate that an average of just over 8 disturbances per cow elk results in nearly 40% fewer surviving calves. [1] 2. Cumulative Mortality Risk: Within these studies, each repeated high-level disturbance event carried an average of a 5% probability of calf death due to tracking exhaustion, abandonment, or separation. [1] 3. Zero-Growth Ceiling: When cumulative human-induced disturbances reach an average of 10 events per cow above ambient baseline levels, monitored elk herds demonstrate no net population growth. [1] 4. Predation Vulnerability: Forcing nursing cows to abandon heavy timber security cover for open slopes leaves neonates highly exposed to apex predators. [1]*Absaroka Elk Ecology Project: https://wyocoopunit.org/kauffman-lab/ absaroka-elk-ecology-project/ Jim Parker Hamilton

Rigidity mistaken for principle

At a Ravalli County Republican Central Committee meeting, September 1, Kathy Love, who lost her bid for SD43 to David Bedey, read a four-page letter explaining why she apparently remains absolutely certain that she is right in all instances. But, one statement deserves attention: “I will sit down and talk with anyone, but I will NOT compromise my Republican principles.” (whatever they are!) Love said she offered to talk with other Republicans, but no one accepted because Love seems to confuse having principles with having conclusions permanently laminated and placed under glass. Ronald Reagan is credited with saying that “...someone who agrees with you 80 percent of the time is a friend and ally, not a 20 percent traitor.” (https://barrypopik. com/blog/my_eighty_percent_friend_is_ not_my_twenty_percent_enemy?utm_ source=chatgpt.comImagine that: disagreement doesn’t automatically make someone an enemy) Love should learn that “principles” provide a framework for making decisions, and are not an intellectual force field preventing evidence or inconvenient facts from getting through. James Madison wrote in Federalist No. 10 that “...Representatives should “refine and enlarge the public views” by exercising judgment in determining the public interest rather than surrendering themselves to faction.” Judgment means: Listen. Question. Debate. Examine evidence. Hear opposing arguments and, occasionally, changing your mind. Apparently that last item has been removed from Love’s legislative handbook. A legislator’s responsibility isn’t to demonstrate ideological purity. It is to represent actual human beings and perhaps including those who disagree with her if she can. Yet Love’s repeated insistence that she will not “compromise” her principles sound less like an invitation to dialogue and more like a warning label: Discussion permitted. Persuasion prohibited. With Art Wittich, the head of the MT GOP, sitting in the room and speaking immediately afterward, a question pops up: was she auditioning for his GOP ideological conformity department? Or trying to thank him for the money the GOP put out on her losing campaign? Or what? A representative who refuses to reconsider a conclusion can always congratulate herself on consistency and she probably does, but it takes considerably more intellectual effort to listen to someone who disagrees and ask, “Could I be wrong?” That’s called critical thinking! If Love is really concerned that people aren’t lining up for dialogue, perhaps she

Bitterroot Star--Page 9 Letters to the Editor are now limited to 450 words or less.

should consider an uncomfortable possibility: People generally don’t enjoy entering a conversation when they suspect the other person has already written the verdict. Principles matter but so do a true willingness to listen, judgment, humility, evidence, and the ability to think. Otherwise, “I will never compromise my principles” becomes a rather unimpressive way of saying: “I’ve already made up my mind, so please don’t confuse me with the facts.” Helen Sabin Corvallis

Stance on Sheep Creek

The Sustainable Living Systems, Bitterroot Climate Action Group adamantly opposes US Critical Mineral’s proposed plan for mineral exploration near Sheep Creek. Our organization is an ardent supporter of transitioning our energy sector towards renewable energy. Presently, technology, such a s wind and solar, relies on rare earth minerals like the ones to be harvested at the proposed Sheep Creek Mine. While the urgent task of decarbonizing the economy currently depends on these rare earth minerals, it is increasingly clear that these minerals can be harvested from existing mine waste sites. We believe that it is good environmental policy to encourage the reclamation of these mines as we are at base an environmental organization that does not believe in sacrificing one environmental goal for another. Furthermore, renewable energy is still in its infancy and its reliance on exotic material is likely a temporary phase in its development, as evidenced by the recent factory that opened in China making batteries with sodium. We also encourage conservation of existing resources through personal restraint on excessive consumption, for the health of the natural environment, as well as individuals, the community, and future generations. Sacrificing the Bitterroot River, and the livelihoods and health of the people of this valley to a rare earth mine, is reckless and unnecessary. John Schneeberger, BCAG Hamilton

Vote out Trump

I have watched what has happened since the 1st executive order on 1/1/2025. I have seen, witnessed and felt that now I have no rights as a woman; there are no longer any rights for the disabled; no separation of church from state; denial of climate change coming to fruition with storms, droughts, fires; an anti-union/anti-worker administration; no voting rights protections; our Dept of Education dismantled; USAID dismantled; the Dept of Defense renamed to one of war and, of course, a war started, a war with no clear goals or end point in sight. Now I hear on the news that Trump wants to pay married parents to stay home with their kids even tho 80% of recipients of current funding are single mothers. Trump is using every aspect of power, of his ability to control others, whether by intimidation, threats or money, to wipe out the work/efforts of generations (including mine, my mother’s), to wipe out the expansion of protections for non-males, especially non-white males. He’s been doing this since the 1st day in office. Ruling by executive order. Trump is narcissistic, racist, does not care for women; he’s power hungry. Why has Congress not acted? Are they all too busy making money (super PAC contributions, stock options, insider trading)? We must elect people who are willing to step up, be vocal, have a backbone, and to hold power to account. Frankly, I am afraid, afraid for me, for my kids, for my grandkids, for my husband, for this country, and for my state. Your vote counts. Please vote out Trump and his loyalist cronies. Judith Loring Stevensville

Bitterroot Star staff Jesse Mullen Publisher

Sarah Glass General Manager editor@bitterrootstar.com

John Dowd Editor john@bitterrootstar.com

Scott Sacry Sports Editor and Advertising Sales scott@bitterrootstar.com

Information about your Bitterroot Star Our Mission The Bitterroot Star is a team of caring individuals who ethically and responsibly strive to deliver essential news and information to our local community. Publishing Information The Bitterroot Star is published every Wednesday by Bitterroot Star Newspaper, Co, a division of Mullen Newspapers. The advertising and editorial content deadline is Friday at 5 p.m. We strive to include news and information that’s important to the people of the Bitterroot Valley. If you have a story idea, or any other concern, call us at 406-777-3928, email: editor@bitterrootstar.com or stop in at our office at 115 W. 3rd, #108, Stevensville. The mailing address is P.O. Box 133, Stevensville MT 59870. Correction Policy Accuracy is important to us. If you see a factual error in a Bitterroot Star news story, please notify the editor immediately and we will print a correction in the next issue. Member 2022 Member 2016 Our View/Letters Bitterroot Star editorials are written from the position of the newspaper. The personal columns and letters appearing on the Opinion page and elsewhere in the paper represent the opinion of single individuals and do not necessarily reflect the position of the newspaper. The Star welcomes public comment and encourages letters to the editor. Letters on local topics or issues are given priority for publication. Letters should be 450 words or less. Shorter letters generally have a better chance of prompt publication. While letters expressing appreciation for a specific, out-of-the-ordinary action are welcomed, letters with lists of names of contributors, donors or volunteers are not accepted as letters to the editor. Author’s name, address and phone number (for verification, not publication) are required. We do not run letters anonymously. We attempt to run all letters, but reserve the right to edit for length, accuracy, clarity, content and libel. We ask that writers email letters to us, and do not turn them in by hand. This increases the chances the letters will get printed. Our staff already has a full workload.

Page 10--Bitterroot Star

Obituaries Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Obituaries are $75. Obituaries are limited to 350 words or less. $1 for every 10 extra words.

Teckla E ‘Teck’ Buelke

Teckla E “Teck” Buelke departed her home in Victor on September 5th to be with her Lord after serving Him for 86 years. She was the daughter of Herbert and Elizabeth Mueller and grew up on their family farm in rural Saginaw, MI. She later attended Michigan State University and earned her BS and MS degrees in Food Science and Nutrition. While there, she met and married her husband, Don Buelke, and worked for the Michigan Department of Agriculture, analyzing foods for purity and content while helping put her hubby through his last years of veterinary school. After graduation, they moved to Boulder, CO, where they had their first daughter, Kristine. As the Vietnam crisis heated up, Don was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force veterinary corps, which stationed them in San Antonio, TX, where they had their second daughter, Karlyn. After his discharge in 1970, they moved to Victor, MT, to follow their calling, build a home, friendships, and faith that sustained their 63-year marriage Teck assisted in her husband’s business while raising her family, which grew to include their son, Kevin, and another daughter, Keri. Her life was about her family and faith. They were also blessed with seven foreign exchange students during these years. She had a passion for gardening, producing ample harvests and canning projects each autumn. As a 4-H leader, Teck shared her seamstress and cooking skills with many young girls. Following her own experience with breast cancer, she energetically volunteered and worked as a trainer with the American Cancer Society. After the last

children left for college, she worked as the office manager and bookkeeper for Empire Landscaping of Victor until her retirement. Her faith was bolstered by her active membership and worship at Grace Lutheran Church in Hamilton, MT, where she served in many ways, including as treasurer and as a bus driver for the “elderly” when she, too, was in her early 80’s! In their later years, they had a few opportunities to travel occasionally, enjoying a couple of European cruises and sometimes reconnecting with their exchange students to experience their lives in return. Unfortunately, Teck’s declining health precluded further adventures in recent years, keeping travels to short jaunts within the state. Survivors include her husband, Don, of Victor; their four children and seven grandchildren: Kristine and David Savage (Parker, CO); Karlyn and Dan Gibson (Torrance, CA); Kevin and Taylor Buelke (Colorado Springs, CO); and Keri and David Brown (Nampa, ID); her sister, Marjorie, and Steve Schaeffer (Gorham, ME); and her sister-in-law, Rhoda Phay (Steilacoom, WA). She was preceded in death by her parents, Herbert and Elizabeth Mueller. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a memorial gift to one of her most treasured charities, Orphan Grain Train at www.ogt.org. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, September 19, 2026 at Grace Lutheran Church in Hamilton. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com

Dennis Clinton Dickerson Stevensville - Dennis Clinton Dickerson, 85, passed away on September 10, 2026, just one day shy of the 13th anniversary of the passing of his beloved wife, Sally. The timing of his passing holds special meaning for his family, bringing to mind the love and life Dennis and Sally shared and the nearly 13 years they had spent apart.

A celebration of Dennis’s life will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville, Montana. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance of Dennis and the life he shared with those he loved. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Timothy Patrick Dowling

Timothy Patrick Dowling, born December 22, 1953 passed away peacefully on August 20, 2026 surrounded by his family after an extended illness. He is survived by his loving wife, Janet, of 44 years; son Michael Patrick Dowling; daughter Meghan Reha Caraballo and son-in-law, Nicholas Caraballo; brother John W. Dowling IV (Theresa); sister Kathleen Dowling Stout; and numerous nieces and nephews. Tim was born to Helen “Peggy” Margaret Carrigan Dowling and John “Jack” W. Dowling III, in Hamilton, Montana, where his family lived for three generations while serving the Bitterroot Valley as owners of the Dowling Funeral Home. He is preceded in death by his parents; brother, Michael Dowling; and brother-in-law Gary Stout. Tim embraced growing up in Montana, often spending time at the family cabin in Dowling Gulch on the East Fork of the Bitterroot River. Tim and his family enjoyed playing cards, snowmobiling, fishing and exploring the outdoors. A dedicated family man, “Big Daddy” adored his family, embraced his Irish culture and cherished his beloved Montana. A graduate of Gonzaga University, Tim had a

successful banking career in Albuquerque, NM; Raton, NM; Newport, OR; Olympia, WA; and Bismarck, ND—forging lifelong relationships and serving as a community leader in each city where he and Janet lived with their children. Sports were a big part of Tim’s life. His lifetime love of the Green Bay Packers, Gonzaga basketball and, later, the Seattle Mariners, provided great family memories, highlighted by watching the “Pack” play at Lambeau Field. A competitive golfer, Tim enjoyed the new group of friends that he and Janet made in Arizona. He recorded four holes-in-one at Corte Bella Golf Club, his home course. Tim’s ever-present sense of humor and twinkling Irish eyes brought countless laughs to everyone he knew, often sharing jokes about himself. His light and his laughter will be dearly missed by many. Tim will rest in peace at his birthplace in Hamilton, Montana, overlooking the Bitterroot River, a place he revered. The graveside service will be held Friday, September 18th, at 1 PM at the Riverview Cemetery in Hamilton. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Death Notices Josephine R. ‘Josie’ Bergman

Louise Barthold Keeling

Robert W. Leonard

Hamilton - Josephine R. “Josie” Bergman, 80, passed away peacefully, in the evening, Saturday, September 12, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mrs. Bergman. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com.

Del Mar, California - Lousie Barthold Keeling, passed away in the morning, Saturday, August 29, 2026, at home surrounded by her family. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Ms. Keeling. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Darby - Robert W. Leonard, 82, passed away early in the morning, Monday, September 1, 2026, at the family home. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Leonard. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Dorothy M. Glantz Kuhl

Charlene C. Senior

Russell E. Panting

Corvallis - Dorothy M. Glantz Kuhl, 84, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, at the Aaron Care in Corvallis. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mrs. Kuhl. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com.

Corvallis - Charlene C. Senior, 82, passed away peacefully, in the morning, Monday, August 31, 2026, at home with her husband holding her hand. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mrs. Senior. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Robert J. Graves

Virginia L ‘Ginny’ Forbes

Victor - Robert J. Graves, 83, passed away in the morning, Friday, August 28, 2026, at the St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Graves. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com.

On Monday, August 31, 2026, up the west fork, Darby, Virginia L (Ginny) Forbes, 81, passed away peacefully. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Ms. Forbes. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary. com.

Russell E Panting, born June 26, 1945 passed away September 6th at the Ruby House in Great Falls, MT. A graveside service with Military Honors will be held Friday September 18th, 11am at the Veterans Cemetery in Fort Benton, MT.

Martin A. Lien

Martin A. Lien, 96, of Corvallis went home to be with his Lord and Savior on Monday, September 7, 2026. Services will be announced. The full obituary can be read at www.dalyleachchapel.com.

Joseph W. Segar

Hamilton - Joseph W. Segar, passed away peacefully, early in the morning, Thursday, September 10, 2026, at the family home in Grantsdale. Brothers Mortuary &

Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Segar. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary. com.

Janice Ann Park

Janice Ann Park, 86, of Corvallis passed away on Monday, September 7, 2026. A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, October 2, 2026 at Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton. There will be a reception following

the service for family and friends. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel. com.

Pre-Paid Simple Cremation

Call Us!

406-363-1111

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Bitterroot Star--Page 11

Ravalli Co. Museum calls for volunteers for apple day, apple night The Ravalli County Museum is gearing up for two of its biggest fundraising events of the year: McIntosh Apple Day and Liquid Apple Night, both on Saturday, October 3. The museum is putting out a call for teen and adult volunteers to help make these events a success. “Whether you can

give us a few hours or an entire day, we would love to have you join the fun. No special experience is needed - just a willingness to work, laugh, and help out!” Volunteer opportunities Apple Peeling – Wednesday, September 30, at the Hamilton Masonic Lodge. Morning and midday shifts available. Help peel and prepare the apples that will become famous homemade apple pies. Apple Pie Making – Thursday, October 1, at the Hamilton Masonic Lodge. Morning and midday shifts available. Help turn all apples into delicious pies for Apple Day. McIntosh Apple Day – Saturday, October 3, at the Ravalli County Museum. Morning shift will assist with event

setup, booth preparation and manning booths. Midday shift will man booths and help with the transition to the evening event. After the event, there are plenty of ways to help, from assisting with food and activity booths to greeting visitors, selling raffle tickets and keeping things running smoothly. Liquid Apple Night - Saturday, October 3, at the Ravalli County Museum. For the afternoon and evening shifts, there will be event setup, selling tickets, guest checkin, event cleanup and serving and pouring hard apple cider (pourers must be over 21 years of age). Volunteers get to be right in the middle of the fun and receive a free tasting glass. To sign up, contact Judy Giggar at the museum by email at museum@ravallimuseum.org, or call 406-363-3338.

n. Something handed down from one generation to the next.

Farmers State Bank Member FDIC

Merle Unruh

Calendar

Page 12--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

206 E. Ravalli St. Hamilton, MT 59840

203 Main St.  Stevensville  777-0028

406-363-4090

Traditional Anglican Services every Sunday at 10 a.m. staugustinehamilton.org St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

Sunday worship is held at 9:30 a.m. every Sunday. 600 S. 3rd St in Hamilton. All are welcome.

days at 10 am Pinochle Monday and Saturday at 7 pm

Victor Masons

Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the United Methodist American Baptist Church on N. 6th St in Hamilton. Use the south door. For more info call 406-5313375.

Victor Masonic Lodge 43 meets the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on Main Street above Farmers State Bank. On the third Saturday of each month they will have a free pancake breakfast open for all at 9 am. For any questions or membership information call 406-381-1250.

Family Shelter

Stevensville Masons

Gamblers Anonymous

Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.

Stevensville Al-Anon

The Stevensville Al-Anon Family Group meets weekly at 7 p.m. Monday at the Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College St. Enter the church through the Fellowship Hall door next to the parking lot. For more information about the meeting, call Hazel at 2390878. Visit https://al-anon.org for general information about Al-Anon.

Stevensville AA

Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7 pm at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive.

Brown Baggers Al-Anon

Brown Baggers Al-Anon meets Tuesdays from 12 to 1 p.m.at the Open-Ended Expressive Arts Studio, 201 Daly Street, Hamilton. For more information, call 406-363-0060.

Three Mile Coffee Club

Three Mile Coffee Club meets every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation, and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For more information call Colleen at 7773710.

BitterRodders Car Club

BitterRodders Car Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st in Hamilton. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 509-209-3709.

Victor Senior Center

Stevensville Masonic Lodge #28 Stated meetings are the first Thursday of every month at 7:30 pm with dinner for members and family at 6:30 pm. A fellowship pot luck for members and family is held on the third Thursday of every month at 6:30 pm. All Freemasons and those interested in Masonry are invited and welcomed to either event. For more information email papajack222@msn. com.

Sapphire Quilt Club

2nd Tuesday of each month, Senior Citizens Center, Stevensville. Doors open 6 p.m., starts 6:30 p.m.

Parkinson Support Group

The Hamilton Parkinson Disease Group (Movers and Shakers) holds monthly meetings on the 3rd Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at Sapphire Lutheran Homes, 501 N. 10th Street, Hamilton. For information call Ginny Wigen, 406-5449186.

Stevenville Senior Center, at 100 Mission St. On site meals served Monday, Wednesday and Thursday each week at 11:30 am Coffee Club Monday - Friday 8 am Exercise Class Tuesday and Thurs-

Am Legion Post 134

American Legion Florence Post 134 meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Florence Rural Fire Hall. Contact: Robert Davis, Commander, 406-4935484. Post 134 holds a free pancake breakfast on the first Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Hall.

Lions Club

St. Francis of Assisi Mass Mass is held at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Hamilton, every Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 9 a.m. Weekday Mass is celebrated Wednesday at noon.

Breaking Bread

Free dinners to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Light of hte Valley Church. Join in for a free dinner, a brief message of hope and lots of fellowship! There is a children’s group available for your K-5th graders as well so all can enjoy!

Bitterroot Heritage Civic Group

Meeting 3rd Tuesday of month, 6 p.m., at the Legion Hall, 754 Middle Burnt Fork Road. For info call Dave Hansen, 406-369-8843.

Am Legion Post 94 Auxiliary

Meetings 1st Tuesday of month, 6 p.m., at Legion Hall, 754 Middle Burnt Fork Road. For info call Cheryl, 406-5314132 or email cherylburgmeier@yahoo. com

VFW Post 1507

VFW Post 1507 meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 108 Main in Victor. For information contact Matt Walker, 541-852-7215.

Am Legion Post 47

American Legion Ravalli Post 47 meets the 2nd Wednesday at 7 p.m. at 322 S. 2nd (corner of Madison next to 2nd St Sushi), Hamilton. Please contact us at american legionravallipost47@ gmail.com

Am Legion Post 91

Corvallis American Legion Post #91 meets on the third Tuesday of the month at the Corvallis Fire Department. Contact them at corvallispost91@gmail.com.

Quantum Group

Attend the Quantum Group of the Scan the QR code for the full calendar. Bitterroot to learn how consciousness and the universe work at the subBitterroot North Valley atomic level, and how they correlate to the reality we live in. Listen to presenPachyderm Club tations, and participate in discussions, The club will meet Friday September on the topic of Quantum Physics and 18, 2026 at 1:00 pm at the Frontier Cafe; its cousin Metaphysics. No previous HWY 93 in Stevenville. The Bitterroot knowledge or interest in these fields North Valley Pachyderm Club meets the are required. Quantum Theory and its first and third Friday of each month from applications are fascinating and are at 1 pm to 2 pm. The Bitterroot North Valley the cutting edge of the future of science. Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of Come learn with others. Meets last the Republican Party. All are welcome. Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library, downRavalli County Republican stairs meeting room.

Free community breakfast Come enjoy a pancake breakfast and meet your neighbors in Victor. Victor Masonic Lodge is hosting the breakfast every 3rd Saturday of each month, starting at 9 a.m. Location is above Farmers Bank on Main Street in Victor.

The Hamilton Lions Club is a service club that works throughout Ravalli County. From eye and hearing assistance to High School scholarships, their motto is WE SERVE! Join them and have fun serving our county. The Hamilton Lions monthly meetings are the first Tuesday at 12 at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton and the third Tuesday at 5:30pm at the Ravalli Fun Center in Hamilton. For more information contact David Hill 406-369-2604.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1507

Blizzard Doll Club

Woman’s Club

Three Mile bingo

Am Legion Post 94

Stevi Senior Center

Corvallis American Legion Auxiliary Unit #91 meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at Corvallis United Methodist Youth Center, 352 Corvallis Cemetery Road. The Auxiliary has programs and projects to support veterans and Americanism. For info call Andrea, 406-381-6239.

St. Francis of Assisi Mass

Hamilton Senior Center

Pinochle every Wednesday, 1 PM. $3, Coffee Provided. Light Exercise Monday, Wednesday, Friday 9-10 AM, $1. Senior Ping Pong Monday & Wednesday 10-11 AM, $3. Bimonthly Membership Meetings, September 5, November 7, 1PM. The Club is located at 727 South 5th Street, Hamilton.

Am Legion Unit 91 Auxiliary

Mass is celebrated at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Stevensville on Sundays at 11:00 a.m. Weekday Masses are celebrated on Thursday at noon and Friday and 10:00 a.m.

St. Mary’s Parish Mass

The Bitterroot Heritage Civic Group, formerly called theSouth Valley Civic Group, has reorganized. New members and volunteers are welcome. Regular meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:15 p.m. at the Darby Library.

Golden Age Club

Free meeting space for nonprofits. Call Sue: 369-0406

The doll club meets the second Thursday afternoon each month at a member’s home. There is a short business meeting to discuss the club’s charities, its annual doll show, and other business. There is generally a program about dolls, bears, toys, miniatures, paper dolls, and related subjects. And, there is always show-and-tell! Contact Kay Schrader at 406-360-7214 or schrader1501@blackfoot.net

Serving meals at the Center Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11:30 a.m. You can still order and pick up meals to go on Monday from 11 to 11:30 a.m. Bridge every Tuesday at 1 p.m. Bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Pokeno 2nd and 4th Friday at 1 p.m. For info or to volunteer call 642-3320. Open for lunch Monday, Wednesday, Friday, serving from 11:30 a.m.-12:15 p.m., $5. Bridge, Sundays & Wednesdays, 1 p.m. Canasta (Hand and Foot), Mondays, 12:30 p.m. Cards/shufflers provided. $2. Line Dancing, Tuesdays & Fridays, 1011:30 a.m. Bingo, 1st and 3rd Saturdays, doors open at noon, play starts at 1 pm. $2 entry fee, games $1 each. Must be age 18+. Pinochle, Fridays, 1 p.m. All supplies provided. $3. Flea Market, every 2nd Saturday, 8 a.m.2:30 p.m., Sept through May. The center is located at 820 N. 4th Street; 406-363-5181.

Worship at 11:00 a.m.

are held every 4th Thursday of the month, January through October, 7:30 p.m. at the Eagles Lodge, 125 N. 2nd St., Hamilton. SOS Breakfast with Marines is every 1st Saturday of the month, all year. It is informal; spouses and friends are welcome; all menu options available, plus Marine camaraderie and esprit de corps, 8:30 a.m., Hangar Cafe, Ravalli County Airport, Hamilton. Check out group site on Facebook at: Marine Corps League, Bitterroot Valley Detachment #937, Hamilton. Semper Fidelis!

Bingo games are held on the first and third Tuesdays of the month. Early bird game 6:45 p.m., regular 6:45 p.m. at Three Mile Community Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. For more information call 406-777-3710 or go to 3milecc.org.

Bitterroot Toastmasters

Afraid to speak up at work, your church or in the community? Bitterroot Toastmasters can help you find your voice and speak with clarity and confidence. For details about our weekly meetings, call Courtney at 406- 7811186.

Amateur Radio Group

The Bitterroot Amateur Radio Group meets the 3rd Monday of every month starting at 7:00 PM in the back room of BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Contact n6mgml@gmail.com or visit the web page at W7FTX.org. Come early and enjoy fellowship and a meal.

Center for Spiritual Life

Center For Spiritual Life is a community-led ministry. Each Sunday they have speakers who share their experience of spiritual awakening and growth. They embrace universal principles of oneness and unconditional love in order to create meaningful, fulfilling lives and a world that works for everyone. They respect and welcome all spiritual paths. Center for Spiritual Life is located at 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. Service is each Sunday from 9:30 until 10:30. Before service, there is silent meditation from 9:00 to 9:15. Following the service, snacks and beverages are shared along with the opportunity for conversation with the speaker and members.

Weapons Collectors Society

The Weapons Collectors Society of Montana meets every other month (January, March, May, July, September, November) on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Members display their collections and knowledge of antique, hunting, and recreational firearms and knives. Everyone is welcome.

Marine Corps League

The Marine Corps League welcomes Marines, FMF Navy Personnel and citizens who support the missions of the USMC and the League. The Marine Corps League is the only Federal chartered Marine active/reserve and veteran organization. General meetings

108 Main St, Victor Member Meeting 2nd Wednesday at 6:00pm Open to Public Tues-Friday 113:00pm Home of the Beer & Burger lunch for less than $10. An affordable place to eat lunch for the entire family. Support your local veterans. The GFWC Bitterroot Woman’s Club. All the information is correct but we need change the contact person to: Betty at (406) 396-2627

North Valley Public Library events

When Novels Were Novel - Thurs, Sept 10 at 6:30pm When we think “literature” a novel usually comes to mind. But the form as we know it today is a fairly recent development in book history, with many transformations along the way. This program travels the path of the novel, which started with readers like us and lead to libraries like ours, with more than one twist and turn along the way. Zoom option available. Library Board Meeting - Wed, Sept 16 at 3pm Meetings are open to the public. Agendas and the Public Participation are posted at northvalleylibrary.org. If you are a member of the public and are unable to attend the Board meetings, the Board would still like to hear from you. Please email the Director at denisea@ northvalleylibrary.org or you can email board members directly. A link to Trustee contact information can be found at montana.gov.

Other Library Events

Fiber Arts Club at the Library — First Thurs of Month from 1-3pm Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting, embroidery, hand sewing, or quilting? Bring your work-in-progress, problem piece, or brand-new pattern and enjoy the company of like-minded crafters during this informal club. Men’s Club: Chess & Checkers — Last Thurs of Month at 2pm Gents, this one’s just for you. Make connections and conversation over a game of chess or checkers during this informal monthly get-together at North Valley Public Library. All experience levels welcome. And if you’ve never played chess, come and learn! Gameboards provided or you may bring your own. Registration recommended to receive a reminder email but not required. Please arrive at 2pm to be matched with a partner.

Bitter Root Back Country Meeting

Bitter Root Back Country horseman invite you to join them on Thursday, September 17, 2026, at the Daly-Leach Community Room, 1010 Main Street in Hamilton. The guest speaker is member Cheyenne Raisor-Grinnell who will describe the use of cryotherapy for equines. A potluck starts at 6:30 p.m., followed by the general meeting at 7:00. Join us for an informative and enjoyable evening. Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen is a volunteer organization that works to keep trails open for the public. Guests and new members are always welcome! For more information check out the website at www.bchmt.org/bitterroot. Find us on Facebook at: Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen (BR BCH).

Women’s Club

The club will hold its monthly meeting and lunch on Tuesday September 22, 2026 at 11:30 am at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Our guest speaker will be Commissioner Jeff Burrows. Ravalli County Republican Women meet the fourth Tuesday of each month.

AARP Driver Safety Program

Bitterroot Health Hospital, Located at 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton, will host an ALL NEW AARP Driver Safety Program on Friday, September 25th from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This new safe driving course is designed for drivers age 50 and over, all drivers are welcome. The new program features laws specific to Montana, Defensive Driving, Winter Driving and new Vehicle Technologies. There are no driving tests or written exams and, Montana mandates insurance discounts for qualified drivers. Issued Certificates are good for 3 years! Class fees are $20.00 for AARP members; $25.00, for non-members. Class size is limited; pre-registration is advised. For Class sign up: Call Hamilton Insurance at: 406-3636583. For further information: Call Thom Ainsworth, Instructor, at 369-0149.

Ravalli County Council on Aging

Elder and Dementia Caregiver Support Group. 4th Wednesday each month at 10:30 am. Golden Needle - 3637 Hwy 93, Stevensville.

Florence Civics Club

Florence Civics Club presents the 2nd annual HARVEST STROLL, SATURDAY, OCTOBER 3 from 12 noon – 3:00 at HIDEOUT MOUNTAIN, 5458 Florence Carlton Loop. This is a family friendly event featuring food, vendors and fun activities including a cake walk, ponies and so much more!

Stevensville Library Book Sale

The annual Big Book Sale to benefit the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville will be held Oct. 2-3 in the library Community Room. As in previous years, the sale—which will feature hardbacks, children and teen books, paperbacks, and so much more— will take place as part of the town’s annual Scarecrow Festival events. Sale hours will be 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, Oct. 2, and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 3. Books again will be sold at $2 per inch of stacked books. A fill-the-bag sale will take place the last 90 minutes on Oct. 3. Donation days will be Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, from 4 to 7 p.m., in the library’s Community Room. There will be no early drop-offs in the library this year. All items will be checked when donated and the following will not be accepted: magazines, dictionaries, encyclopedias, textbooks, travel guides, poetry books, computer and tech manuals, VHS and cassette tapes, and worn, torn, or moldy books. The NVPL Foundation and Friends of the Library are presenting the sale. The library Community Room is located at 208 Main St., Stevensville. For more information, email harrisonsanders@aol.com.

Save the date - Christmas Craft Faire

St. Mary’s Parish, located at 333 Charlo St. Stevensville, MT, invites you to the “Fall Into Christmas” on Saturday, October 17, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. FEATURING: Unique Artisans, Lunch, Bake Sale, Raffle.

Calendar postings are free to non-profit groups. Submit by emailing to: editor@bitterrootstar.com

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

LUCKY HORSESHOE 4‑H CLUB

THANK YOU to our supporters

The Lucky Horseshoe 4‑H Club proudly represents the next generation of leaders from the Stevensville, Victor, and Lone Rock communities—youth ages six to eighteen who are building bright futures in agriculture, industry, college, and beyond. Their hands‑on projects, made possible by the generous support of community buyers and donors, are helping them grow into tomorrow’s entrepreneurs and innovators. OUR 2025‑2026 MEMBERS & PROJECTS

RIDGE ANDERSON

KALEB HAWKEY

KOHEN MORTON

OWIN AUNE

KAEHL JONES

Buyer: Jones Leather & Livestock

Cloverbud

Market Goat, Rabbit

Summer Camp, Market Steer Buyer: Bitterroot Health

Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Poultry, Summer Camp

CARSON CARDOZA

REATA JONES

Archery

Dairy Heifer, Colt, Green Horse, Horse Judging, Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Summer Camp

SARA CARDOZA Rabbit

RHETT JONES

GABE DEMAIORI

Bred Heifer, Poultry, Summer Camp

Woodworking

ANDERS EBERLEIN

HENRY KEPHART

Cloverbud

LAYNE FARSDALE BB Gun Safety

Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Archery

ISABELLA FLINT

English Horse, Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Archery, Job Interview

ELEANOR GARDNER

Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Summer Camp Outdoor Adventure, Sport Fishing, Summer Camp

BROOKELYNN HAWKER

Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Summer Camp

Baking, Electricity, Dutch Oven Cooking, Food Preservation, Gardening, Summer Camp

MICHELLE ROEBKE

Baking, Cooking, Gardening, Stir‑Ups

REMY SULLIVAN Market Lamb

Buyer: Allegiant Irrigation & Landscape

WYATT KEPHART

CAYDEN SUTHERLIN

BRIDGETT MADRUGA

Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Archery, Prepared Speaking, Market Lamb Buyer: Cristi Bussard

CAMERON MADRUGA

Western Horse, Ranch Horse, Archery, Advanced Demonstration, Market Lamb Buyer: Valley Irrigation

ADELAIDE MEYER

GARRETT GARDNER

EMILY ROEBKE

Leathercraft

Leathercraft, Photography

ELI FLINT

Market Hog

Senior Leadership, Prepared Speaking, Market Hog Buyer: TrailWest Bank

EMERY MEYER Cloverbud

Bred Heifer, Farm and Ranch Layout/Design, Veterinary Science, Market Steer Buyer: UPI Custom Ag

JACKSON TALBOT Cloverbud

JOHN TALBOT Cloverbud

MICHELLE WANDLER

Breeding Heifer, Cowboy Poetry, Market Steer Buyer: Allegiant Irrigation & Landscape

OWEN WANDLER

Breeding Heifer, Tractor Safety, Market Steer Buyer: Ravalli County Federal Credit Union

The Lucky Horseshoe 4‑H Club thanks all of our supporters from throughout the year and at the

2026 RAVALLI COUNTY FAIR

406.777.5591

Bitterroot Star--Page 13

Classifieds

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406-777-3928

Deadline Friday at 5 p.m. for Wednesday Publication

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Wednesday, September 16, 2026

SAFE STEP. NORTH AMERICA’S #1 WALK-IN TUB. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Off for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-601-2865.

GET A BREAK ON YOUR TAXES! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous tax credit for 2025. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855-901-2620 today! REACH CUSTOMERS ACROSS MONTANA with one easy ad! The MNA SCAN program places your classified statewide—affordable, simple, and effective. One order, one bill, big results. Contact your local newspaper or MNA at 406443-2850 or visit mtnewspapers. com today.

FOR SALE

Crossword Solution

STIHL HT131 PULL SAW. Extends 6 to 12 feet. Excellent condition. $350. 406-3810547.

FOR RENT SECURE OUTDOOR STORAGE. Ideal for RVs, boats, trucks, trailers. Fully enclosed with secure access gate. Located on Grantsdale Rd. $35/month. Call 406-3602732.

For consignment and pick-information please call: Thad Lechner at 406-961-3323 Regular Sales are every Tuesday & Special Feeder Sales are Friday © Feature Exchange

LOST/FOUND

Looking for the Bitterroot Star? It’s FREE on more than 100 newsstands from Lolo to Conner. Or call us at 777-3928 and we’ll let you know where the closest stand is.

Drop off your food donations for the Stevi Food Program at the Bitterroot Star, 115 W. 3rd, #108

Stevensville

www.montanalivestockauction.com

FOUND - Black metal bed headboard found in Darby after it fell from truck on 8/31. Please call Linda at 406-2742242.

Help feed our local kids!

Stevi Food Program

MONTANA LIVESTOCK AUCTION Ramsay, Montana

FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back! $5.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star office, 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville. 2004 4-WINDS MOTORHOME, Ford F-350 Chassis, Good Tires, Runs Good, All Appliances Work. Call Ted at (406) 961-3686. $5000 Firm.

Rate 25 words - $25 25¢ each add’l word

fa

This is Ford Truck Country.

Trailer Repair

Repair  Parts  Service

Montana

Serving children up to 18 years of age

JOHNSON APPLIANCE Individually portioned non-perishable food items and snacks are the best. For more information visit the Stevi Food Program Facebook page. Thank you!

SKY BLUE GUN SHOWS

F a m i l y O wn e d & O pe r at e d s i n c e 1 9 7 2

Buy your new appliance from a trusted source! 3 Years in a Row!

PRESENTS

HAMILTON, MT GUN SHOW

FRI., SEPT 18TH-61PM 15 Chances SAT., SEPT 19TH-59PM to spin SUN., SEPT 20TH-29PM to win amazing HAMILTON FAIRGROUNDS prizes!

Celebrating m&m’s 37 Year Anniversary!

FREE Financing OAC.

142 Canyon Falls Way, Hamilton 406-363-3592

Hours: M-F 9am - 5:30pm | Sat 9am - 1pm

AUTHORIZED Service Center ALL Makes, Models Hwy 93, Stevensville

406-728-1000  www.mmmissoula.com Mon-Fri: 9am - 5pm | Sat: 9am - 12pm

Outstanding in his field Merle Unruh

Call today

Talk to Merle for all your Real Estate Needs! Victor 363-4700 Hamilton

Donate Your Car

Imagine the Difference You Can Make Vehicle donations are fully tax-deductible and the proceeds help provide services to help the blind and visually impaired. FREE TOWING & TAX DEDUCTIBLE

When you donate your car, you’ll receive: ✔ a $200 restaurant voucher

&

✔ a 2-night, 3-day hotel stay at one of 50 locations

Call 1-855-901-2620 Help Prevent Blindness

Get A Vision Screening Annually

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Custom Processing

BOOKING NOW!

Bitterroot Star--Page 15

Bitterroot Wealth Planning Advisors with D.A. Davidson & Co. Member SIPC

Build a plan with a Big Picture Perspective

Retail Meat Shop 3096 KK Ranch Rd.  Darby Open: MON-FRI 9AM - 5PM www.doublekranchmt.com

Call or Email:

406.802.4372  Dillon@DoubleKRanchMT.com

Trevor Morton, CFP®, CWS® Senior Financial Advisor. Jim Moerkerke, CFP®, CWS® Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor.

Looking for the Bitterroot Star? It’s FREE on more than 100 newsstands from Lolo to Conner. Or call us at 777-3928 and we’ll let you know where the closest stand is.

(406) 363-0266 bitterrootwealthplanning.com 1711 North First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840

A UTOMOTIVE

S TAFFING AGENCY

C OMPUTER R EPAIR

F INANCIAL S ERVICES

P ROPERTY M ANAGEMENT

Stranded, Accident, Locked Out, or Flat Tire?

● Prompt 998 N. First ● Courteous Hamilton ● Professional 363-4050 D ENTAL C ARE

®

Together, we win

120 LJK Way  Stevensville

Brian S Adams Financial Advisor

Offering General, Family, Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry Services

400 W Main Street Suite 200 Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-1140 brian.adams@edwardjones.com

We see Emergencies, too!

406.777.5070

www.BitterrootValleyDentalCare.com E LECTRICAL S ERVICES & G ENERATORS

➢ edwardjones.com | Member SIPC

A UTOMOTIVE

320 S 2nd St. Hamilton (406) 363-4430 A PPLIANCES

NEVER BE WITHOUT POWER AGAIN!

➢ NEW LOCATION  142 Canyon Falls Way

Hamilton

406-363-3592

Cummins Generator Sales & Services

Family Owned & Operated since 1972

(4 0 6 ) 3 6 3 - 1 97 2

Servicing all your kitchen & laundry appliance needs from Lolo to Darby, no matter where you bought them!

From Sula to Missoula

WWW.DJSELECTRIC.COM A UTOMOTIVE

H EALTH & W ELLNESS

F UNERAL & C REMATION S ERVICES

FAST, FRIENDLY & LOC ALLY OW NED!

314 Church St.  Stevensville FREE CARWASH INCLUDE D WITH EVERY SERVICE!

415 N. 1st St., Hamilton | 3757 N Reserve St. & 2020 South Ave. W, Missoula 406-369-6900  406-541-3278  406-541-9009

K T E XPRESSL UBE. COM

A DVERTISE W ITH U S

P u t y o u r ca r d h e r e f o r $ 1 5 0 per month for 3 months . C on t a ct : Sc ot t Sa cr y 406-239-3022 scott@bitterrootstar.com

406.777.5711

 Bill & Helen Kropp   Kallan & Gretchen Kropp   LServing AWN C the ARE Bitterroot  C LEAN Since - U PS 1902 Y OUR A D H ERE

YOU R A D HERE! Design assistance Available!

Page 16--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, September 16, 2026

Organic Bulk Foods

Local Produce

Black Angus Beef

Great Wine

Taste Local and Save at BFM!

Local Headquarters!

At the Fork, we are loaded with Local Sourdough Bread, Farm Fresh Eggs to Delicious Local Coffee Beans! You will love our great selection of Oktoberfest Brews, from Germany to Missoula’s own Bayern! So shop the store with Local Flavor, & Save Time & Money! Scarecrow Fest Coming Soon! BLACK ANGUS CHUCK ROAST

HONEYCRISP APPLES

$9.99 $8.99

$6.99 $1.29 $2.99 lb

USDA Choice! BONELESS SKINLESS CHICKEN THIGHS

$2.49 lb

Grill ‘em!

ON THE VINE TOMATOES

$1.69 lb

BLT Time!

HILLSHIRE FARM LIL ’L SMOKIES

lb

lb

WA X-Fancy ST. LOUIS PORK RIBS

$3.99 lb

Grill ‘em!

SMITHFIELD HOMETOWN BACON

$4.99 12oz

BLT Time!

PRAIRIE FRESH PORK TENDERLOINS

WILCOXEN ’S HUCKLEBERRY ICE CREAM

BAYERN OKTOBERFEST

PORK SIRLOIN CHOPS

Boneless!

6pak

1/2 gal

Taste Local!

Taste Local!

BLACK ANGUS 85% LEAN GROUND CHUCK

SWEET MANDARINES

$7.49 $4.99 3lb

lb

Local Fall Assorted Mumms!

BLACK ANGUS BONE -IN RIB STEAKS

lb

USDA Choice!

Great Snack!

Grill ‘em!

CHICKEN HINDQUARTERS

BLACK ANGUS FLANK STEAKS

CRISP CELERY

$1.79

$1.00 doz

ROMAINE LETTUCE

69¢ 2 $3 ea

Save!

Save!

KIWI FRUIT

BARTLETT PEARS

USDA Choice!

P-nut Butter Time!

89¢

BLACK ANGUS CHUCK STEAKS

HILL ’S PORK DOGGIES

TAYLOR FARMS SALAD KITS

TORTILLA LAND FLOUR TORTILLAS

lb

2lb

bag

Grill ‘em!

12.99

$

lb

lb

lb

Delicious!

Taste Local!

99¢

lb

11.99

$

SLICING CUCUMBERS

10.99

$

SUSHI GRADE AHI TUNA

LOCAL MEDIUM EGGS

ea

Save!

$1.29 lb

Delicious!

HILLSHIRE FARM ROPE SAUSAGE

2 $7 $6.49 $7.99 $7.99 $3.99 2 $6 2 $7 paks

18.4oz

13-14oz / Save!

Assorted

HILL ’S BONELESS HAM STEAKS

SAUCY SPOON BAKED BEANS

$5.49 12oz

Breakfast Time! SIMPLY DONE WINDSHIELD WASH

$3.99 gal

20 Below

USDA Choice!

Grill ‘em!

12ct

12-14oz Assorted

7-11oz Assorted

Taco Time!

YELLOW ONIONS

RUTABAGAS & TURNIPS

BAKERY FRESH CINNAMON ROLLS

lb

4ct

PACIFIC SEAFOOD SALAD SHRIMP

PERSONAL SIZE WATERMELON

16oz

each

Salad Time!

Refreshing

GENERAL MILLS LUCKY CHARMS, CHEERIOS

DUNFORD MUFFINS

WHITE CHOCOLATE MACADAMIA NUT

6ct

12ct

2 $5 $8.99 $3.99 $3.49 $1.99 $4.99 28oz

Assorted

HUNT ’S MANWICH & PASTA SAUCE

5lb bag

Save!

Stew Time!

Delicious!

PASTA RONI & RICE -A-RONI

DIGIORNO PIZZA

4 $5 $2.88 $9.99 $5.29 3 $4 $4.88 16-24oz

8.9 -12oz

Assorted

Assorted

Bakery Fresh!

Delicious Cookies!

14-29oz

Assorted

Assorted

We Only Sell Black Angus Choice Beef ! EGGO WAFFLES

YAMI YOGURT

2 $3 $2.99

10.7 -14.8oz

Assorted

Assorted

BOAR ’S HEAD DELI CHICKEN

$8.99 lb

Sandwich Time!

BOAR ’S HEAD PEPPER JACK

$7.99 lb

In Our Deli!

BRAWNY PAPER TOWELS

$9.99 4ct

Double Roll!

SIMPLY DONE DRYER SHEETS

$2.88 120ct

Save!

NUTRISH DRY CAT FOOD

$6.99 2.5 -3lb

Assorted

10% off when you purchase 6 or more bottles of Wine, Mix or Match! BUSCH LIGHT & PABST BLUE RIBBON

22.99

$

30pak

Hunting Time! BOTA BOX WINE

15.99

$

3Ltr

Assorted

CAPRI SUN DRINKS

$3.88 10ct

Assorted

BARILLA PASTA

4pak

Taste Local!

NABISCO OREOS & SNACK CRACKERS

FRANZ NAKED BREAD

SNICKERS, MILKY WAY, TWIX

4 $5 2 $5 $4.99 $3.69 $4.99 15.3oz

each

22.5oz

bag

12-16oz Assorted

Assorted

Assorted

Assorted

3 Musketeers

PHANTOM RED WINE

LUCIGNANO CHIANTI

MICHELOB ULTRA ZERO

STELLA ARTOIS

COORS, MILLER LITE, COORS LIGHT

KETTLE HOUSE OKTOBERFEST

$9.99

KINDERS BBQ SAUCE

14.99

$

750ml

Spooky Good!

$9.99 750ml

Italy!

$9.99 6pak

Lime!

$8.99 6pak

Save!

17.99

$

18pak

Cans or Bottles