Wednesday, May 6, 2020
PRIMARY ELECTION 2020
Tuesday, June 2, 2020 Election will be solely by mail ballot. Ballots will be mailed to all eligible registered voters on May 8, 2020, and must be returned to the County Election Administrator, Ravalli County Administrative Building, 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, Montana 59840 no later than 8:00 PM on June 2, 2020.
Special Supplement to the Bitterroot Star
Page Two -- Bitterroot Star Primary
RE-ELECT
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
SHARON GREEF HD88
It has been my honor to represent each of you this last legislative session and I humbly ask for your YES vote to return to Helena and continue the work that needs to be done.
PRIORITIES FOR ME . . . AND FOR YOU: Our state is facing an alarming meth and opioid crises that must be addressed . . . and addressed now. It is affecting our health care costs . . . incarceration rates and costs . . . the safety of each one of us. I WILL NOT vote for a sales tax....though one current valley legislator states that myself and two others plan to do otherwise. I WILL vote for or carry any bill that will protect the lives of the unborn. I WILL stand strong for our second amendment rights. And I WILL NOT vote for any bill that infringes on our first amendment rights. I WILL work for infrastructure and internet capabilities that will attract businesses to the Bitterroot. And I WILL consider my constituents as I read and vote on each bill. VOTE Tim Blackburn Joan Andersen Representative Nancy Ballance Becky Berger Dave Bachmann Leslie Blackburn John Fitzpatrick Reggie Good Public Service Commissioner Bob Lake Lilya McAlister Wayne Rusk Steve Schertenleib Connie Fitzpatrick Representative Denley Loge Barbara Good Faithe Lake Palmer Scott Lynn Staley Col. Ed Sperry USAF ret.
SHARON’S ENDORSMENTS: Bill Robey Past representative Rob Cook Wayne Grove Ken Davis Ken Uskoski Rusty Raymond Dave Hurtt Tom Leonard Ed Boniecki Randy Peterson Representative Julie Dooling Megan Beard Clint Carlson Ken Holmlund Connie Robey Sue Grove Lynn Davis Rick Langlotz Commissioner Chris Hoffman Christy Uskoski
Janice Raymond Lauretta Belts Tara Leonard Kelly Boniecki Sally Carlson Representative Ken Holmlund Susan Peterson Will Crews Penny Kotte Rick Langlotz Mary Crews Representative Ross Fitzgerald Mary Langlotz Representative Geri Custer Representative Frank Garner Mary Langlotz Ginny Hoffman Representative Wendy McKamey Curt Belts Ed, Kendra and Kristi
PAID FOR BY SHARON GREEF, ED GREEF, TREAS. PO BOX 1327, FLORENCE MT 59833
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
The Bitterroot Star requested the following information from all candidates who have challengers in this election cycle. • brief bio and photo • statement of why you are running and the issues that are important to you • your opinion of how the state is
handling the COVID-19 situation Following are their responses, in their own words. We have included here the responses of the candidates in the contested primary races, plus some additional responses as space permitted.
Legislative Races Senate District 44
Nancy Ballance Republican
After representing House District 87 for the past eight years, I am now termlimited out of the Montana House of Representatives and am a candidate for the Senate seat being vacated by Senator Fred Thomas, who is also term-limited out. For the past six years, I have been Chairman of House Appropriations and have served on the Legislative Finance Committee. Prior to serving in the Montana Legislature, I served on the Hamilton School Board. I retired as an Information Technology executive responsible for developing large scale business applications for IBM, Farmers Insurance and Zurich Financial Services. I am a woodworker, horsewoman, golfer, skier and gardener. My husband and I have one son who lives in Corvallis with his wife and our two grandsons. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I believe I am uniquely qualified to represent Senate District 44 as I have represented half of the district as their legislator for the past eight years. During that time, I have earned the reputation of being one of the hardest working, most effective legislators in the House based on my record of delivering conservative solutions in healthcare, education, and economic development for Ravalli County and Montana families and businesses. As the chairman of House Appropriations for the past six years, I reduced the size and scope of Montana’s budget while increasing our financial reserves and re-filling the Fire Fund without sacrificing funding for the critical services our families and businesses depend on. My priorities have been and continue to be focused on access to high quality, affordable healthcare; job creation and economic development; flexibility in educational opportunities; public safety; and the fiscal strength of the state. Significant progress has been made in all of these areas but much more needs to be done. I will continue to support reforms to Medicaid that focus on preventing fraud and limiting access to those most in need while providing assistance for low-income workers and protecting the viability of Montana hospitals. I will continue to
support programs for business growth in Ravalli County and infrastructure that will help attract new high-paying jobs. I will continue working on new models for delivering education and training to meet the needs of our students, workers and businesses. I will continue to support programs to prevent drug and human trafficking. I will work to make permanent a pilot project I supported last session that provides direct assistance for Ravalli County
Bitterroot Star Primary -- Page Three
veterans’ services. And, I will continue working on fiscal policies that sustain a healthy economy and provide opportunity for Montana and Ravalli County workers and families. I believe Senate District 44 needs the type of leadership, experience and tangible results I have provided over the past eight years. What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? I believe the willingness of Montana citizens to practice the safety precautions and follow guidelines set forth by two polar-opposite political leaders is the defining factor that kept Montana’s COVID-19 case numbers low. However, despite the fact Montana went into the COVID-19 situation with the highest financial reserves in decades, the impact of the economic shutdown will affect us for years. The COVID-19 pandemic has caused more Federal deficit
growth, our tax revenues are decreasing, unemployment is soaring, and many of our workers are struggling to provide for themselves and their families. Montana and Ravalli County’s ability to return to our former economic strength and growth is dependent upon rapid and wise distribution of the federal stimulus funds in a manner that prioritizes restarting existing businesses, assisting workers and families, and regaining the momentum we lost in the development of new business opportunities. To that end, I will continue providing input to the state COVID-19 Task Force to ensure Ravalli County is well represented as decisions are being made regarding the distribution and use of federal stimulus funds. The COVID-19 situation has clearly shown the undeniable fact that the health of our economy is highly dependent upon a healthy workforce. If we are to emerge strong from the economic crisis facing Montana, we cannot continue the politically charged rhetoric regarding healthcare
Page Four -- Bitterroot Star Primary policy. We cannot afford to elect politicians who will instill fear and anger while doing nothing to improve our situation. Montana and Ravalli County need a Senator with the ability and the courage to pass responsible healthcare policy and sound economic policy to bring our economy back from the damage done by the COVID-19 pandemic and restore prosperity for Montana and Ravalli County families and businesses.
Margaret Gorski Democrat
I am 67 years old and have lived in the Bitterroot Valley with my husband, Skip, and our Labrador Retrievers, for 30 years. Throughout a long Forest Service career, I held a number of leadership positions where I managed million dollar budgets, supervised natural resource professionals, firefighters, skilled tradesmen and women, and volunteers doing the work of maintaining and protecting our public lands. I worked primarily with the timber and outdoor recreation industry managing conflict, negotiating differences of opinions to find common ground, making decisions always guided by the time-tested motto for “the greatest good, for the greatest number, in the long run.” In retirement, I am a volunteer for non-profits using my expertise to give back to my community by promoting natural resource management, public lands, and tourism. Planning for the 2005-2006 Lewis and Clark Bicentennial, I developed a network of contacts across the country who work to maintain and develop trails on public lands. More recently, as a Board member for the Partnership for the National Trails System, I lobby Congress to pass laws and appropriate funding to maintain our trails that are so important for access to our public lands. More locally, I helped establish the non-profit Friends of Fort Owen, a group of people dedicated to preserving and maintaining Fort Owen State Park to enhance its value as an educational and tourism asset to Stevensville. I also am a member of the Ravalli County Citizens’ Collaborative which was started by the Ravalli County Commissioners to help provide local input into Bitterroot National Forest management issues. I am guided by the values instilled in me by my mother, a junior high math teacher and my father, a career military man. “Study hard, work hard, be organized, and plan ahead” is my golden rule of success. I made them proud when I earned an undergraduate degree in Forest Resources from the University of Washington and later a master’s degree in Landscape Architecture
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
and Regional Planning from the University of California-Berkeley. My experience in the Forest Service and now in non-profits has prepared me well for the challenges of being your State Senator. As a public servant, I have been in the trenches listening to widely opposing viewpoints; have been the target of public frustration; have solved complex problems with inadequate funding; have been responsible for complying with local, state, and federal laws and for building relationships with numerous private enterprises and governmental agencies. Projects succeed when the power of the government is leveraged with the strength of private business and teams become much more creative when they open their ranks to members with different viewpoints and values.
the state without regulating them to the point they are not profitable and damaging the very reason we all love it here? Although healthcare, education, and jobs are my high priorities, there are many other issues important to me, Ravalli County residents and Montanans. This is a new day. As your Senator, I will be asking the hard questions as the legislature grapples with the economic fallout and health issues created by this pandemic. Can we soften the short-term impacts created by this crisis while keeping our eye on fixing these long-term problems? If you want your Senator to look out for ways to make a better future for all of us, then I am your choice. You can learn more about my views by visiting my website: www.margaretgorskiforsd44.com
Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I ask myself this question every day! Ravalli County is a solidly red county so why would a Democrat even try? Simply, to help solve the challenges facing Montana and to change the status quo. The Bitterroot has been dominated by a single approach, viewpoint, ideology, and way to solve problems for years. Relying totally on “conservative values” as the only way to solve problems shuts out potentially good ideas that can solve issues that meets everyone’s needs. Why is it so difficult for a Democrat to win in Ravalli County? We believe in equal opportunity and that everyone should have a shot at the American Dream. We believe in passing laws to protect the disadvantaged. We believe in capitalism to drive the economy but that achieving wealth should not come at the expense of providing workers a living wage or degrading the environment. What’s so wrong with that? Yes, it requires that government play an important role to fund pay and deliver services that are not profitable for the private sector. This doesn’t mean government can solve all problems. Government can be more efficient, less wasteful and many regulations can be streamlined. If there is a problem, let’s fix it. Don’t throw the baby out with the bathwater. The COVID-19 pandemic has shown us that problems are complex and solutions don’t come easy. I am a practical, middle of the road person who believes that solving real world problems takes listening to all sides, finding common ground and coming up with policies and programs that benefit as many of us as possible. Neither Democrats nor Republicans have all the answers. Government leaders should unite us, not divide us. Leadership means representing all of us not just some of us. For example: • How do we make health care affordable for everyone without raising taxes on those who can’t afford it? • Where can we strengthen our educational system so our children are prepared to be successful in a global economy and to develop a workforce to fill new clean industry jobs? • How can we grow small business jobs in the valley and in
What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? One of the most important responsibilities of the Governor and our State Legislature is to protect our health and safety. Given the facts that over 20% of Montanans are over 60 years old, the state has an inventory of 5,000 vacation rentals, people come from all over the world to visit, and that we have limited ICU beds and ventilators in our mostly rural hospitals, I think the governor acted wisely in issuing his stay at home order as quickly as he did. I expect our leaders to base decisions on expert advice and science. Although some say he over reacted, it’s easy to play Monday morning quarterback. Put yourself in his shoes. With the same information, what would you have done? The COVID-19 threat is not over. The hard work is just beginning. The damage to our economy and disruption to our lives has been significant. As we try to “get back to work,” the threat of illness overwhelming our hospitals remains. With summer just around the corner, the reality of having an economy fueled by tourism bringing “outsiders” into the state makes recovery even more challenging. It is the job of our political leaders to evaluate the scope of the damage to our citizens, both locally and across the state. They must make decisions about how to support and assist individuals and businesses to get back on their feet. If elected, I would base such decisions on facts and with the goal of making Montana even stronger than ever before, not on political ideology. This pandemic has shown us how important frontline workers are to our lives. Every day they risk their health and that of their families to protect us. I am truly grateful to all of them! Thank you! COVID-19 has also shown us how many Montanans are one pay check away from not having food on the table, how important reliable internet access is for education and business, and how scary and unfair it is to not have health insurance. I think our priority should now be to address the shortcomings and inequities in our systems that have been laid bare by this pandemic and to provide for the needs of our small main street businesses that are the economic lifeblood in Ravalli County and
across the state. Montana is in line to receive $1.25 billion from the CARES Act and even more as Congress provides additional Federal stimulus money. Once we understand more fully the effect on the state’s revenue and how deeply we must tap into and backfill the Budget Stabilization Fund, hard decisions will need to be made to balance the budget. Where will cuts in General Fund services and programs need to be made? How should we spend the stimulus money to gain the biggest benefit to the state? These important questions need answers now and will be fought over for years to come. Who do you want in the legislature making those decisions? Someone who uses “Conservative Values” as the catch all answer or someone who is a pragmatist and a planner who believes she should listen and take good ideas from all sides to come up with solutions? This pandemic has created a new day and shown us that our immediate priorities in Montana should be protecting the needs of our frontline workers and supporting our small main street businesses. These will be my priorities as your next Senator.
Timothy Gibney Democrat No response.
Theresa Manzella Republican
To current and future friends in SD 44, please allow me to introduce myself. I’m Theresa Manzella and I’ve had the honor of representing the good people of HD85 for the past six years. I’m a Christian, Constitutional, Conservative, Republican. I have a proven “A” rated voting record over the last three sessions with the Montana Family Foundation, Montana Shooting Sports Association, the NRA, Americans For Prosperity, United Property Owners of Montana, National Federation of Independent Business, Montanans for Limited Government and Legistats /Legislator Loyalty (as compared to my opponent’s recent F). I’ve also earned the Conservative Achievement Award from the American Conservative Union for voting in adherence to the U.S. Constitution over the past three sessions as well. I’m the 2017 “Keeper of the 10th” award winner for preserving States Rights and I’ve also received the Phyllis Schlafly Eagle Forum Award. I was elected by Republicans across the state of Montana to lead the delegation to the RNC in 2016 which was ultimately the first step in the electing President Trump and getting our country
back on the right track. I have been dubbed the “Donald Trump of Ravalli County” by Democrats for my candid, straight talk, which is something I embrace. My legislative peers elected me to the leadership position of Whip in 2017, and I serve as the Vice Chair of Natural Resources. I’ve also served on the Environmental Quality Council, Ag, Judiciary & Local Government Committees. After much thought, prayer and encouragement, I’ve decided to run for Senate District 44 encompassing Corvallis, Victor, Stevensville, Florence and Pinesdale. Although it had not been my plan to move beyond the House of Representatives, after witnessing such a dramatic liberal change in Rep. Ballance’s voting habits last session, I believe it’s my civic duty to give the good citizens of the district a choice between two Republican candidates with very different ideas of what it means to be a Republican. My opponent voted in support for increased Property Tax, Gas Tax, Bed Tax and utility rate hikes, to name just a few. Additionally, she voted to usurp the will of the people and the Republican caucus with her vote in support of Obamacare/Medicaid Expansion. This act pays for taxpayer funded abortions and sex changes, in addition to massive amounts of waste, fraud, and abuse that we’ve only begun to discover. I have faith that our citizens prefer the traditional, conservative definition of Republican, over the trending “progressive” version threatening our party, our state and our country. If you would like to discuss my position on issues, or just chat for the purpose of getting to know me, please call 546-WHOA (9462). Unlike my opponent, my principles aren’t for sale to the highest bidder or the latest special interest. As a true Conservative, I will always fight for our individual citizens’ rights, and against government overreach.
Bitterroot Star Primary -- Page Five
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
VOTE
Theresa Manzella
VOTING RECORDS MATTER I’m endorsed by the following list of Republican Legislative Leaders • Former Gubernatorial Candidate, Senator and GOP Chairman - Ken Miller • Gubernatorial Candidate and Senator - Albert Olszewski • 2017 & 2015 Speaker of the House & candidate for Attorney General - Austin Knudsen • Senator, Chairman of FWP and MT GOP National Committee Woman - Jennifer Fielder • Former Representative, Senator and MT GOP National Committee Man- Art Wittich • 2019 Speaker Pro-Tem - Representative Wylie Galt • 2019 House Majority Leader - Representative Brad Tschida • 2015 House Majority Leader, Senator and Chairman of Judiciary - Keith Reiger • Senator and Chairman of State Administration - Dee Brown • Senator and Chairman of Legislative Administration - Bob Keenan • Senator and Chairman of Public, Health, Welfare and Safety - Dave Howard • Senator Steve Hinebauch • Senator Roger Webb • Representative and Co-Chair of Appropriations - Carl Glimm • Representative and Chairman of Judiciary - Alan Doane • Rep., Whip, and Chairman of the Rules Committee - Derek Skees • Representative and Chairman of the Tax Committee - Alan Redfield • Rep. and Chairman of State Administration - Forrest Mandeville • Representative and Chairman of Natural Resources - Kerry White • Rep., Whip, and Chairman of the Education Cmte - Seth Berglee • Representative and Chairman of Business and Labor - Mark Noland • Representative and Chairman of Fish, Wildlife and Parks - Bob Brown • Representative and Chairman of Ethics Committee- Sue Vinton • Representative and Vice Chair of Judiciary - Barry Usher • Rep. and Vice Chair of Local Government - Steve Gunderson • Representative and Whip - Becky Beard • Representative Rhonda Knudsen • Representative Matt Reiger • Former Rep. Krayton Kerns • Former Rep. Scott Staffanson • Representative John Fuller • Representative Dan Bartel • Representative Casey Knudsen Republi c • Representative Greg DeVries Teamwo an • Representative David Dunn pulling rk • Representative Vince Ricci RIG togeth HT • Representative Terry Moore er • Representative Peggy Webb • Representative Joe Read • Former Senator Ed Butcher • Former Representative Rick Jore • Former Representative Bill Harris • Former Rep. & Sen. Chair of Approps & Finance and Claims - Dave Lewis • Former Representative Matthew Monforton • Former Representative Kirk Wagoner • Public Service Commissioner - Randy Pinocci • Constitutional Scholar - Robert Brown • Pro Life Advocate - Dr Anne Bukacek
I have a proven “A” rated voting record with the Montana Family Foundation, Montana Shooting Sports Association, the NRA, Americans For Prosperity, United Property Owners of Montana, National Federation of Independent Business, and Legistats /Legislator Loyalty (as compared to my opponent’s recent F).
www.manzellaformontana.com 406-546-WHOA (9462)
I’VE BEEN AWARDED
• Conservative Achievement Award from the American Conservative Union, CPAC all three sessions • 2017 “Keeper of the 10th” award for protection of States Rights from Montana Agri-Women • Awarded the Phyllis Schiaffy Eagle Forum Award for adherence of the Constitution • Elected by Republicans across Montana to lead the delegation to the RNC in 2016 • Elected to leadership position of Whip in 2017; and serve as Vice Chair of Natural Resources
Paid for by for Theresa Manzella for SD44 • P.O. Box 1300, Hamilton MT, 59840
Page Six -- Bitterroot Star Primary
House District 85
Michele Binkley Republican
I’m a conservative, constitutional Republican candidate running for House District 85. My husband and I moved to this district in November 2002 with our small boys. We’ve both worked and raised our family here. I currently work for First American Title Company as an Escrow Officer. My heart is with the Constitution. I believe in and support it. I’m sickened by the move our country and state has made toward Socialism. We have been given a wonderful gift. We live in the greatest country in the world. We need to work at keeping it. I’m running for office to do my part in keeping our Constitution, keeping our liberties and keeping our God-given rights. I understand why our government and state reacted the way it did to COVID-19. I’m looking forward to everyone going back to work and getting our economy running again. I’m worried about how quickly our liberties were taken away, or how easily we gave them up. We were told it was all done for the greater good. We all complied because we care for each other and don’t wish harm on one another. But at what cost? Time will tell. I hope we’ve all learned from this experience. I hope we can figure out a better way to deal with this type of situation if it comes up in the future. A way to keep the elderly, sick and vulnerable safe without bringing our entire economy to a screeching halt. It will take a while for us to all recover from this. Recover financially, physically and mentally. It will have a lasting impact on us all. I hope those affected are able to recover quickly. For families of those who have lost their loved ones, I extend my sincere condolences. I appreciate your consideration for representing you, House District 85.
Kyle Ellsworth Republican No response.
Laura Jackson Democrat
I have lived in the Darby School District since 1976 when I bought the land I have made my home, about five miles from where my great grandparents homesteaded. My working years from that time on were mainly spent working for the US Forest Service. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? Our government is responsible for many services that are essential to our communities and quality of life—roads, schools, protections from harm, a healthy and sustaining environment in which we can all flourish, earning a decent living for our hard work and having affordable healthcare available for ourselves and those we love. Maintaining these services on which we all depend and balancing our state budget is an ongoing challenge that will be exacerbated in the context of COVID-19. We all need to recognize the benefits of these services to ourselves and our neighbors and be willing to fairly share the costs. We have a right to expect honesty and good management from our elected and administrative officials, but government is not simply a business with the normative business type goal of maximizing monetary profit. I profoundly believe our best future depends on respectful dialogue including all points of view and grounded in our common appreciation of this valley; this is what has motivated me to stand for office. To openly and honestly listen to constituent needs and look at, and objectively evaluate, the data for diverse options that can set us on course for a positive shared future as Montanans and Bitterrooters -- these are what I consider to be my most important qualifications as a candidate. What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? Given the early exponential spread of the virus in Gallatin County at a time of little clarity about the nature of the virus and its transmission, I feel the steps taken to handle the pandemic potential in our state have generally been reasonable and appropriate. We cannot know what might have happened had these steps not been promptly taken, but we must be grateful that Montana has so far been spared the tragic impacts of the virus that have been experienced in many other places.
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 society. In my opinion, I believe the state is handling the situation reasonably well, particularly with getting the word out, sharing information on the web, addressing public services and community needs. However, I feel they are breaching into our personal freedoms and the choices we are individually and collectively granted by the United States Constitution and The Bill of Rights. In my opinion, I also feel it is the citizens of Montana that are making the difference and contributing most to our communities, families, and neighbors.
Matthew Locati Republican
My name is Matthew Locati and I am a licensed Montana Realtor and Chairman for The City of Darby Planning Board. My wife, Danielle, and I are parents to three children and live in Darby. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? Running for the State Legislature is important to me because my career allows me to witness first-hand the changes happening in our state due to the growth fueled by newcomers purchasing property here. Many come for the “allure” of Montana and the western lifestyle, yet when they go to the ballot box, it is not the Montana lifestyle they choose to align with. Instead they bring the big city politics, liberal mindset, and over regulation of the states they are moving from. Growth is a great thing for our state – bringing jobs, strengthening our economy and growing local communities with new businesses and new neighbors – when tempered with logic, strength of values, and providing the proper resources and infrastructure. Access to our public lands, offering all Montanans the ability to be in the great outdoors – hiking, hunting, fishing, observing nature, recreation in whatever manner we choose – is so fundamental to who we are, and how and why we live in Montana. The preservation and strengthening of public access and not allowing for any further reductions or limiting factors in access or use is of the utmost importance to me! Additionally, I believe Montanans need access to the people they vote for! Through personal experiences, and stories from others, this does not seem to always be the case. With my 22 years predicated on excellent customer service, making and returning prompt phone calls/messages/ texts and emails, working with clients from all walks of life and often very emotional situations, working through financial negotiations, I feel very strongly I am more seasoned, experienced and capable than my fellow running mates for this position to help the voters in House District 85. Your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation We are all living and dealing with a strange new world with COVID-19 and the encompassing long-term effects upon our
Hollis Poe Republican
I first entered Montana in 1948 on a horse with my mother hunting elk at the age of 18 months. The last thirty years I have lived here in the Bitterroot HD 85. In the nineties, I ran a trucking company out of Darby called Thunder Paws Express. At that time, we were still allowed in the forest and all were prosperous. My political experience started fighting pornography 19 years ago and to this day there are no porn shops in our county. Working behind the scenes I have done my part to hammer out results. So what are my accomplishments and where did I serve? • Ravalli County Parks and Recreation Board • Ravalli County Open Lands Board • Ravalli County Special Zoning Districts Board • Ravalli County Tax Appeal Board • Member of the Bitterroot College Referendum Committee • Montana State Committee Man • Committee that produced the GOP Preamble to the Platform • Director of All Nations Ministries
• Director of Advancing Conservatism Society • Former member of the Montana State GOP Platform Committee on Indian Affairs • Former GOP platform on Transportation • Former GOP platform on Commerce • Former GOP Platform on Education • Most recent Chair of the Montana State GOP Platform Committee on Health and Human Services I stand ready to help reopen our economy in a way that will see Ravalli County leading the state to prosperity. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I chose to run because South County deserves better than what they have had for the last several years. I am the best connected and the most qualified candidate times five with a can do attitude and a record of results that don’t just represent more feathers in my hat but results for we the people. We must first get a pulse on our local economy, then charge into long standing issues that have held us back for decades. We will have a onetime chance to start from scratch and form a sound free market low cost high quality health care system. We need to lead the State in access to technology starting with High Speed Internet everywhere. Then will come good bills to abolish bad laws and much more. I don’t see higher taxes and bigger government as an answer to anything; however, a vibrant economy should heal itself in short order. Let’s do this together. What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? Most Montanans will tell you they agreed to shelter in place in order to protect those weaker folks that might perish from this disease. However, I see no common sense caring coming from the Governor’s office. Closing campsites is insulting to all while picking which business can and cannot stay open was brutal. I would recommend that when and if this disease rears its ugly head this fall we start by isolating the high risk individuals and allow the rest of society to practice measures that work for economic as well as health issues. We will respond conscientiously without fear but with respect and concern for each other.
House District 86
issue a statewide shut down. It didn’t make sense to shut down, only a certain number of businesses, in an attempt to flatten the curve. Many of the small business owners affected by the shutdown will struggle to recover and some may ultimately not be able to. The state legislators need to address the emergency powers that the governor has in order to ensure that citizens’ constitutional rights cannot be infringed on in the future.
Kenneth E. Allen Republican
I am currently an entrepreneur with two small businesses in Hamilton. I served in the United States Marine Corps. After leaving the Corps, I pursued a career in criminal justice. In an effort to continue my pursuit in a public service career, I became a volunteer firefighter for Hamilton. I have always felt that the only way to make changes is to get involved and do something about it. I have always been interested in government and law and I believe that I could be a strong leader and representative of Republican ideals. I believe in smaller government, less taxes, proper land management, and protection of individual freedoms, liberties, and constitutional rights. COVID-19 is a complicated issue but there were not enough cases of COVID-19 in the State of Montana for the governor to
David Bedey Republican
I was born in Hamilton and entered the U.S. Army after graduating from Montana State University. Over a 30-year military career, I served in combat engineer units—including deployment during the Persian Gulf War—and as a professor at the United States Military Academy at West Point. Upon retiring from the Army as a colonel, I returned home with my wife and daughter, Deborah and Karis. I am now the chief financial officer of a small
Bitterroot Star Primary -- Page Seven
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 engineering firm. Before being elected to the Montana House of Representatives in 2018, I served on the Hamilton School Board for nine years (chairing the board for seven of those years). During the 2019 legislative session, I served on the powerful House Appropriations Committee where I participated in cutting funding for unneeded state positions and in restraining per capita state budget growth to less than the inflation rate. Presently, I am chairing an interim committee that is examining several funding issues, including how to expand opportunities state-wide for career and technical (vocational) education.
have two things in common. Both dream of dragging us all into some mythical utopia. And each is committed to achieving its chosen utopia immediately and by any means necessary. The history of the 20th century demonstrates the futility of—and destruction wrought by—these malign movements. In the legislature, I examined the world as it actually is, studied the issues objectively, and then applied conservative principles to craft realistic solutions for my constituents and the state of Montana. I intend to continue doing so as your representative for House District 86 and would appreciate your vote in the upcoming election.
Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I am running for re-election because I have the experience and record of proven leadership that can best serve the citizens of House District 86 during these trying times. During the 2019 session, I succeeded in getting legislation enacted that expands access to veterans’ services, that reduces state interference with local control, and that places more emphasis on career and technical education. I’d like to return to Helena to keep up the momentum in these areas, to promote economic development in Ravalli County, and to continue producing a fiscally responsible state budget. As a conservative, I stand in strong opposition to extremists on both the far left and the far right. Though on different ends of the political spectrum, these factions
What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? The actions taken by President Trump and Governor Bullock were appropriate early on when the situation surrounding coronavirus was unclear but its potential threat to public health appeared to be devastating. The crisis is now subsiding. It is time to move off emergency footing and get life back to normal as quickly as practicable. This means adopting a more nuanced approach to balancing public health concerns with the need to restart the economy. In the spirit of “loyal opposition,” I offer the governor the following suggestions: (1) allow counties to advance through the “phased reopening” at different rates, depending on local conditions; (2) concentrate on protections for the most at-risk members of society rather than implementing a “one size fits all” approach applied to
the population as a whole; (3) get federal stimulus money quickly into the hands of the hardest hit businesses so that they can bring people back to work; and (4) ensure that stimulus funds are distributed equitably to counties across the state. We have all made sacrifices to deal with the COVID-19 challenge. Now let’s join together to put this chapter behind us. Soon.
RE-ELECT David Bedey Republican - House District 86
• Proven
- Passed most bills of all first-term legislators. - Ranked in top 15 of all 100 Montana Representatives.
• Conservative
- Cut funding for unneeded state positions. - Held spending growth to less than the inflation rate. - Reduced state regulation of local government. - Supported healthcare reform that helps low-income workers, aids small business, and protects Montana’s hospitals.
• Leader
- Waged successful campaign to expand veteran services. - Chairing a key education subcommittee. - Leading the effort to increase vocational education opportunities across Montana. Montana Chamber of Commerce 98% Montana Farm Bureau 91% National Rifle Association AQ
Montana Contractors’ Association 100% Montana Family Foundation 100%
For more information visit Representative David Bedey on Facebook or https://DavidBedey.com on the web Paid for by Bedey for Legislature P.O. Box 692 Hamilton, MT 59840
Page Eight -- Bitterroot Star Primary
House District 87
Sashin Hume Republican
Political experience: Over 13 years in local grassroots political involvement, served and held multiple board member positions in local political groups representing the Montanan citizens. 2016 candidate for Senate District 45 Missoula (the University Area). No Republican had challenged the incumbent Democrat in that district before. With hardly any money and no help, received 35% of the votes. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? The driving force to run in the House 87 race is a very simple one. The Bitterroot Valley is at an extremely important place in time. Currently we are faced with many critical issues. Ravalli County deserves to have a legislator who will represent them in the fight to protect their freedoms and rights. Those issues are best solved using a constitutional Christian conserva-
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
tive citizen like myself. My thirty years’ experience in small business ownership, only adds knowledge and understanding of the many economic problems the valley. Issues that are important: Keep government small, transparent, grow our economy, stop the property tax increases, fight the CSKT Water Compact, and put an end to drug and human trafficking. I will fight to protect the rights of the unborn, gun rights, property rights, farmers and ranchers, water rights. I will work on utilizing Montana’s treasures: mining, tourism, and forest. We should be maintaining and logging the forests with balance and forethought. This will bring money and jobs to our area while reducing the risk of forest fires. My goal is to arm and empower the Ravalli County citizens with truth and facts. I will always work for you and you alone. I will protect your rights, and defend your freedoms, while holding firm to our Montanan spirit. What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? Facts are finally coming out about what has really occurred during the “COVID-19 pandemic.” From the beginning, we have been inundated with deceitful data coming from many directions. Even our own doctors and health organizations were daily giving out false information. Did you know that the health organizations we look to protect us, immunize our babies, and elongate our lives are privately owned? Think about that. That means there is no health organization out there without its own agenda. That translates to; no one is looking out for you the citizen. Now I am all for capitalism and commerce. I have been a small business owner for thirty years, but no money should be made from citizens health issues or demise. My goal is to protect our Montanan citizens. Couple the misinformation with the lack of historical scientific knowledge of this Corona-virus and we had
South Stevensville - Victor Corvallis - Pinesdale House 87 Vote
SASHIN HUME
The Only Candidate With No Agenda She Will Fight For You, Ravalli County - Against Raising Taxes - Protect Gun Rights - Protect the Unborn - Grow Our Economy - Manage Our Forests - Protect Agriculture & Farmers - Use Our Natural Resources - Protect Property Rights & Freedoms To Learn More About What She Stands For Go To
www.votehume4mt.com
Sashin Hume - votehume4mt@aol.com
Paid for by Hume87: Treasurer: Nikki Sardot (406) 239-6856 PO Box 1074, Florence, MT 59833
the perfect storm of hysteria and worldwide panic. Montana has fared well during this pandemic event. There are many factors that brought us to this outcome. It helps that the state of Montana has the ninth least population density per capita. It also helps that Montana is not a main port of entry into America. The states reporting 25,000 plus cases are New York, California, Texas and Florida. Governor Bullock’s early enactment to “social distance” was another move that kept our low ranking to 4th lowest Corona-virus cases and deaths in the country. President Trump’s decisive, early, smart and bold decision to stop the flow of international travel made a huge impact on the initial spread of disease throughout our country and in Montana. However, since those first weeks, the truth has become clearer. The virus is not as deadly as it had originally been claimed to be. This is good news for us all. If we look at the 2017-18 U.S. Influenza deaths, they were reported around 61,000. The 2019-20 Coronavirus U.S. deaths are to date 57,505. Recently we have seen reports from doctors and nurses on the front line. These reports have been very enlightening. They have showed us that there are many inconsistencies going on with the coronavirus accounting of patients and deaths. I think it is safe to say that 57,505 is an inflated number. Sadly, we might not ever know the real numbers. Now that we are starting to get true facts, we must ask ourselves, when does the cure start to become the curse? I think we have just lived this answer. Why is it okay to keep an abortion clinic open but not a church? Did you know 44% of America’s economy is made up of small businesses? Even more shocking is a whopping 97% of businesses owned in the state of Montana are small businesses. Therefore, why is it okay to keep Walmart open but keep small businesses closed? The lessons learned from this event are great. Let’s not repeat them. What we should do for the future: 1. Most important, vote for a balanced conservative republican governor. A governor of a state has a great power given to him. Just think of him like a mini president of our state who represents Montanans only. 2. We must have a sound plan in place for the next event. 3. We should have stockpiles of medical equipment and PPE to suit a pandemic event just for the State of Montana. 4. The hospitals must have a plan in place as well as beds and the capacity to deal with such an event. 5. Every household should have a month’s stockpile of toilet paper at all times! Just joking! In closing, I have always considered myself blessed to call Ravalli County my home. In the past, I have been well aware that the residents of the valley in today’s world would be considered a rare breed of conservative, hardworking, God loving, kind, generous souls. Owning and running a small business here, I have seen proof of this over the years in a multitude of ways. However, it has been a blessing to witness Ravalli County citizens going above and beyond to help and give to the community. Although socially separated, our community showed the unity, concern, care, and love to its fellow citizens even in dark times. These selfless acts are sure to have rung out to heaven. This only confirms what I have known for years. Ravalli County is the last best place on earth because of its wonderful residents. We are truly blessed! Contact Sashin Hume: Online campaign website: www. votehume4mt.com Call Or Text Me: 406-529-4425 Email Me: votehume4mt@aol.com Mail Me: P.O. Box 1074, Florence, Mt. 59833 Stop By My Antique Shop: 5477 US HWY 93 North, Florence
Ron Marshall Republican
I am an Army veteran and father. My wife Deanna and I live in Victor and own three small businesses. I am currently vice president of the Montana Smoke Free Association (MSFA). I am also the current vice-chair for public relations the Ravalli County Republican Central Committee (RCRCC). I am a charter member of the Ravalli County Pachyderm Club and member of the Advancing Conservatism Society (ACS). As a veteran of the U.S. armed services, I took an oath that never expired. I stand firm in what that oath represents. A duty to this country. A duty to this state. A duty to the people of this county and, this district. I am not going to give you a long list of issues of what I think is important but, rather I want to hear what issues are important to you. What’s important to you and your family. what’s important to your job or your business. My campaign is black and white. Literally. That is who I am. What you see is what you get. No flash. No bling. Just keeping it simple and honest. speaking the truth. I am asking to represent you, the people of Montana’s House District 87. Not some other District, but the people of this District. The same District that I live in. Pinesdale, Corvallis north, Victor, Stevensville west, Stevensville south and Lone Rock. The Constitution of the United States and The Constitution of Montana are my guides. I support them fully. I do not support socialism however it may be presented. I do not support abortion. I support lower taxes and smaller government. Over regulation by government bureaucrats has got to stop. I will not support any new regulations that encroach on the businesses or people of HD 87 or Montana. Some candidates would have you believe that they are just the same. They are not. You be the judge. Feel free to contact me by phone @ (406) 579-9498 or email ronmarshallmt87@gmail.com I thank you for your support and may God bless you.
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Bitterroot Star Primary -- Page Nine
Page Ten -- Bitterroot Star Primary
Laura Merrill Democrat
Laura Merrill, 62, has lived in the Victor-Stevensville area since 1990. In her 30-years as a real estate broker, she’s worked on behalf of hundreds of families and learned first-hand how local issues affect lives. She’s been honored to serve the Valley she loves through the Bitter Root Water Forum, Bitter Root Land Trust, Bitterroot Human Rights Alliance, Bitterroot Valley Association of Realtors, Bitterroot Forest Restoration Committee, and currently as President of the Bitterroot Performing Arts Council. She earned a B.S. and M.S. in Forestry and Plant Pathology from Colorado State University, and worked in private tree care practice and for the U.S. Forest Service in ten states, including Montana. Her career paths have prepared her to proudly serve a diverse electorate in the Montana Legislature. She has the skill set to listen to differing perspectives, find common ground, and negotiate win-win solutions for important issues affecting Montanans. Her ability to scientifically evaluate complex issues will also be beneficial in developing policy. “I am running because I feel I have something unique to
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 offer in the legislature - a diverse perspective, sound business experience, and working knowledge of land use and natural resource issues in the private and public sectors.” Issues of importance to her are those that affect affordability of life in the Bitterroot Valley such as housing, the cost of medical insurance and prescription drugs, and the rising expense of higher education, childcare, and elder-parent care. Protecting our natural resources and keeping our public lands under public land management is a top priority. Planning ahead for an energy future that utilizes our renewable resources and employs a new Montana workforce is not just aspirational, but is doable! The COVID-19 pandemic has affected Montanans in all walks of life, and of utmost concern is the sustainability of small farms and ranches, and businesses throughout the state. Laura is aware of the need to get Montana families the help they need to recover from financial, physical, and emotional loss realized during this unprecedented time. Laura believes that the state response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been a success. The governor’s decision to shelter in place was timely and effective, and has saved lives. Montanans have complied with the order, pulling together with care and generosity, and can take credit for the low infection spread. Our local health department and hospital are quick adapters and continue to stand ready for our community. Kudos to our scientists at Rocky Mountain Laboratories who are working night and day to create a vaccine as soon as possible! Montanans at all levels have championed the effort to stay ahead of the virus, and the leadership from our state government framed the groundwork. While we are not completely through this uncertain and difficult time, she agrees that it may be too early to open public schools this May, and that we absolutely need to remain vigilant in the coming months and into 2021.
elect HOLLIS POE House District 85
Integrity + Experience = Results
House District 88
James V. (Jim) Crews Republican
I am a Republican, married, 64 years old. I have a varied background. I have been a Navy Nuclear Machinist Mate 1(SS), Commercial Nuclear Maintenance Standards Advisor, Professional Weapons Handling Instructor, writer, a former telecommunications technician and am currently retired. I am a hovercraft pilot and technician, a multi-use rights advocate for all citizens regarding our natural resources. I have lived in Stevensville for 20 years, have been a member of the Town Council, Town Council President and appointed Mayor. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I am running for House Seat 88 for several reasons. The first is that I believe we need to have a bit of local government reform, in that the citizens need to have a simpler method of holding local government officials accountable to the citizenry. Second, I want to see what we can do to restrict the Montana Administrative Rules process so that non-elected officials have less power to write rules that become law, removing or restricting a citizen’s rights. The current process favors large organizations and not necessarily the rights of the individual citizen. Third, we need more diversity in the state legislature, in that the state legislature should be composed of all types of citizens, from all walks of life so that the average Montanan can be represented by those folks who have worked and lived within our communities. Fourth, I want it to be known that Montana is not for sale, nor are the rights of Montanans. I am Pro-life for the unborn, Pro-right to work, Pro-United States Constitution, Pro-Second Amendment, I am an American first, above all else.
the COVID-19 situation, I have had a few thoughts regarding what mandatory and voluntary restrictions were presented and how they were implemented. I think time will tell more that I can predict as to the final outcome of how things were handled. I have looked at the Constitutional aspects of the Stay at Home Directive and have concerns about the constitutionality of what we were requested to do. Ultimately it is the people who will have a final say as to how things were handled and how they will be handled in the future. As a former member of the local government I see a significant need tor the Council and Mayor’s office to be trained regarding their roles and responsibilities during an emergency situation. When I was first elected to serve on the Town Council I started asking questions regarding our emergency plan and found that the plan on file at the town was out of date, we promptly acquired the current Ravalli County Emergency Operations Guidelines which by the way is 10 years old and is in dire need of revision, although it was updated somewhat in 2018. The Town does not have an emergency plan other than the county guidelines and other local communities such as Victor and Florence as they are unincorporated fall under county control. Towns and Cities need their own Emergency Plan, that will mesh with the county plan when needed. All of the recommended resolutions and ordinances should be written and ready for adoption when needed, with at least an annual review process to make sure they are up to date. All employees, council members, mayor and other officers of the town should be trained and retrained on a regular basis so that they understand their roles. I think that we are seeing a time where the old Civil Defense preparations need to be considered so that we are not caught totally unprepared in the future.
Merrill
for MONTANA
What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? Regarding how the state is handling
Watch for a man and his truck on a mission of reviving South Ravalli County
HOUSE DISTRICT 87
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MONTANA Merrill LAURA
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Cares • Listens • Takes Action email: merrill4montana@gmail.com
Paid for by Hollis Poe for HD 85, Republican
Paid for by Laura Merrill for HD87 ~ Democrat ~ PO Box 718, Stevensville, MT 59870 Nancy Neal, Treasurer
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Sharon Greef Republican
My husband Ed and I have lived in Florence since 1986 and plan to call the Bitterroot home forever. We have been married 55 years and have two married daughters, five grandchildren and two adorable twin great-grandsons! We belong to the Florence Carlton Community Church where we are both involved in a variety of activities. We love being outdoors... camping, canoeing, hiking. I managed a log home supply store in Stevensville for several years and before that, worked as an auditor and sales representative in the grocery industry for twenty years. I’m running because there are a lot of issues I care about and I want to represent you in Helena. I am sick of the divisiveness in politics. I’m sick of the attacks made by someone who wants the seat so badly that they have no problem lying about their opponent. I want to go back to Helena to get things done… to work together to bring about the solutions that make sense for our state, for our valley. The issue closest to my heart is protecting the unborn and I will do whatever I can to reign in the killing of these dear innocents. I will work to bring economic development to our valley and along that line to support improvement to our infrastructure including improvement of internet services so we appeal to those looking for places to bring their businesses. I want to work for solutions... to work together, not try to block ideas that are not mine. The COVID-19 crisis has affected all of us in ways we couldn’t have imagined. I believe the Governor was right in the beginning to shut things down but we MUST re-open or we won’t have an economy left! Re-open with caution. With common sense. Yes, I’m tired of wearing a mask and gloves but continuing to do it is a small price to pay to protect each other. It breaks my heart to think of the small businesses that will never recover… to think of those working for minimum wage and those trying to figure out how to not lose their home. It’s time to start a gradual opening of all activities. Our state and local economy have been dealt a major blow and we need to find safe and reasonable ways to open all our businesses and service jobs while still protecting our most vulnerable. This is not the time for political grandstanding and empty rhetoric... now is the time for proven leadership and common sense.
Scott McLean Republican
Scott is a third-generation Bitterrooter, a Stevensville volunteer firefighter and EMT, and the owner of Montana Legacy Realty, LLC and Montana Legacy Law, PLLC. Scott served on the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee where we worked to stop Obamacare. Scott currently serves as the General Counsel of the Montana Young Republicans. Scott once brought, and won, a federal free-speech lawsuit allowing people to put “For Sale” signs in their car windows. Scott is a Constitutional conservative who prizes liberty above all, and wants Montana to have the distinction and honor of being the freest state. Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I am running to help Montana be the freest state. I would like Montana to have the best regulatory environment and the lowest taxes in the country. With a Republican governor in place next session, we could finally move so much legislation that has been held up by previous Democrat governors. I already have several bills ready to go for the next legislative session including: • A strict voter ID law. One person, one vote. • A bill allowing occupational licenses issued in other states to be automatically recognized in Montana. Montana will be open for business. • A bill demanding that our statefunded schools follow the 1st Amendment rather than PC culture. Campus viewpoint oppression against conservatives will stop. • A bill allowing for Constitutional carry of firearms. Its time to honor the 2nd Amendment. • A bill ending the suffering of the unborn. Please stop making our kids suffer.
What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? Governing bodies have been put in an impossible position, with policy choices that offer trade-offs between protecting innocent lives by imposing restrictions on the populace, or ruining other lives by cratering the economy and causing massive layoffs and the attendant miseries. My initial thought at the beginning of the epidemic was that governing bodies will have to take a middle ground. Both policy choices, if taken very far, are unworkable in my mind. My instinct was that people are generally self-interested creatures, and that this virus threatens us all, therefore if people are well-informed they will generally take protective measures on their own initiative to make sure that they and their loved ones don’t catch it. With that assumption as a starting point, I think state government bodies should (1) not contribute to the spread (all interactions with government should be done remotely if at
Bitterroot Star Primary -- Page Eleven
all possible, or delayed if necessary), (2) state government should be out front trying to educate the populace about just how dangerous the virus is, and how the virus works, with the latest information being provided in an almost constant stream though every government channel, (3) government should be marshalling resources to arm our front battle lines with ammunition (health care providers, hospital and assisted living facility staff, first responders, police etc. should have PPE and the government must try to meet this demand), (4) testing will likely be the way out of the epidemic. As therapeutics become available they will need to be delivered early to those who test positive. The more testing we have available, the more we can focus our efforts on isolating those who have the virus, and worry less about those who don’t. If my guess is right, outcomes in states with draconian lock-downs will fare little better than states that are much less restrictive. If that guess is right, then governments would be better off by leading through example, sharing information to the max, and repeating again and again, “This is deadly for many people. For many
others, it is still miserable. It’s highly contagious, and highly unpredictable. It appears that it is highly contagious even in the absence of symptoms. You may have it and pass it to others without even knowing it. It appears to last on surfaces for days, and in the air for hours. It appears that it can be introduced into the body through touching your mucous membranes with your hands, or even through breathing the same air as others. There is no cure, and few treatments are available to relieve suffering. Please stay home, stay away from other people, wear a mask, disinfect, and wash often.” Let’s all voluntarily do these things to the maximum that our circumstances allow, and encourage government to cut all the bureaucratic red tape that has slowed down our scientific and medical response or that has prevented our scientists, institutions, and businesses from solving the virus’s attendant problems. Solutions are coming (look how far we’ve come in two months), and we need to hang in for a while, and let free people do their amazing problemsolving.
Support for Greef
Nancy Ballance has demonstrated thoughtful leadership for Montana and Ravalli County as the House District 87 Representative for the past eight years. She has worked continuously to increase economic opportunities in the Bitterroot Valley six of those years as the chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. During that time her leadership efforts helped to reduce the size and scope of state government while continuing to ensure education, healthcare and public safety were fully funded. In contrast, Nancy Ballance’s opponent’s record has jeopardized the economic vitality and health care support in the Bitterroot Valley. Nancy Ballance has demonstrated that she is a conscientious, conservative legislator who will represent our best interests as our District 44 Senator. Mark Jergens, MD Victor
Endorsement Letters
Trying to stay educated and up-todate with all the political ads in today’s environment certainly seems like a daunting task, to say the least. It seems almost impossible to wade through all the rhetoric to decide who is the best candidate. However, impossible as it may seem, the importance of the election could not be stressed more. One such important election is in HD 88, with incumbent Representative Sharon Greef. Sitting legislators can easily be vetted, as they should be, because they have a legislative history and voting record that a person can look at. However, that vetting sometimes can also make the legislator a target when an opponent will pick out only one or two votes they have disagreed with. How conservative a legislator is defined, should be decided on their record as a whole, rather than on just one or two votes. My advice is to be wary of the opponent who spends their whole time throwing the politically rhetorical grenades over the fence. They are usually the ones that hide behind that fence, never offer solutions, and personally have nothing to offer; other than an ability to criticize the decisions of others. While I too may not agree 100% with Representative Greef’s voting record, I still find a candidate strong in her convictions, articulate in her messaging, and still sensitive to the needs of her constituents. Those convictions, and the experience she has achieved in Helena, could not be more important than in the upcoming Montana legislative session. With the current Corvid-19 crisis in Montana, one could be assured of a Montana budget fraught with financial shortages, a wide array of policy changes needing to be made, and critical decision making at every level. Now is the time for experience, now is the time for conviction, now is the time for Representative Greef to take her legislative experience to another level. I am confident she is the right person for the job, and will prove to all, that she is the conservative candidate we want to represent us in Helena. I am supporting Representative Greef in the upcoming election, and think you should also. Former Representative Ron Ehli House Majority Leader 2017 Hamilton
Ballance gets the job done
Ravalli County voters have a clear difference in their choice between the candidates in the Senate District 44 race.
Support for Huls
Ballots are being mailed May 8 and there is an important decision in the primary for County Commissioner as the winner will be the new Ravalli County Commissioner next November. I am encouraging all eligible voters to exercise your right to vote and to vote for Dan Huls. I don’t know Dan’s opponent so will say nothing about him but there is lots to say about Dan. We first met as members of the Ravalli County Planning Board in the late 1990’s. The Commissioners had given us the task of developing a County Growth Policy and Dan was a strong proponent of the Policy being developed by residents of the County and not by out of area consultants. He was a valuable asset to the Planning Board because of his intelligence and his knowledge of the County. We learned of the Gallatin County open space bond that had been passed by the voters and Dan grabbed that idea and ran with it. He was the stimulus behind getting the open space bond passed in our county. As a result, we have 10,000 acres of key agricultural and wildlife lands protected from development, and that number will continue to increase. Dan recognized that many ranchers and farmers wanted to retire and they were “land rich and cash poor” and had strong feelings about their land staying in agriculture. He was instrumental in forming the Open Space Lands Board that evaluates the applicants. There are many people that have been involved in protecting those lands, like the Bitterroot Land Trust and
See LETTERS, page 13
Page Twelve -- Bitterroot Star Primary
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
Ravallli County Commissioner and serve on the advisory committee for the Western Montana Agricultural Research Center. I have served on various statewide committees regarding agriculture, and served on the Ravalli County Planning Board for over 10 years. I am also a past president and board member of the Montana State Motorcycle Racing Association.
Dan Huls Republican
I am a Corvallis resident, fourth-generation Bitterroot native. I with my family own and operate Huls Dairy Inc. northeast of Corvallis. I graduated from Corvallis High School and attended Northern Montana College, studying agriculture before purchasing farmland and beginning my agricultural career. My wife, Joan, and I have two sons and two grandchildren who reside in Ravalli County. My community involvement over the years has proven my commitment to my family, neighbors, and visitors to the Bitterroot Valley. I have been involved with youth sports coaching baseball, football, and motocross. I presently serve on a number of boards, including Teller Wildlife Refuge in Corvallis, Mountain West Cooperative, the Corvallis Canal and Water Company, and Humble Drain. I am a member of the Ravalli County Right to Farm & Ranch Board,
Why are you running and what issues are important to you? I am running for Ravalli County Commissioner because, first and foremost, I love this beautiful piece of Montana where generations of my family have been blessed to live. I believe that my experience in business, my experience in service as a volunteer on boards that advise local government, and my involvement in leading both for-profit and not-for-profit organizations will be valuable in guiding Ravalli County into the future. My career in agriculture, and in particular dairy, has always demanded dedication and a strong work ethic. Problem-solving skills are tested daily, we’re on-call 24/7, and a great amount of collaboration, care, and compassion are required every day. These are all valuable qualities I would bring to the table as county commissioner. I feel that the present Board of County Commissioners is doing a good job, and I would look forward to adding my voice and perspectives to the many issues the board faces. What is your opinion of how the state is handling the COVID-19 situation? The handling of COVID-19 by the State of Montana. I believe the Montana state government has done about as well as could be expected given the directives from the CDC and the unknowns associated with
DAN HULS FOR COUNTY COMMISSIONER
Fourth-generation Bitterroot Native Dedicated, experienced, strong work ethic Willing and able to serve the citizens of Ravalli County
• Supports law enforcement and first responders • Supports economic development • Supports local businesses • Supports public access to state and federal lands • Supports agriculture, irrigation, wildlife, recreation, open land • Supports education, family, and faith Paid for by Dan Huls for County Commissioner | PO Box 818 Corvallis MT 598328
this virus. Given the history of the Spanish flu in 1918 and 1919, where Montana was one of the hardest hit states in the nation, a cautious reaction to COVID-19 did not come as a surprise. In hindsight, the action to shut down the entire state might well be second-guessed, but the decision was made based on what was known about the virus at the time. New information, new theories, and new testing procedures are coming to light every day. It is my hope that the lives of all Montanans will return to normal soon, and that the experiences in handling this pandemic, in terms of both physical well-being and economic vitality, will help inform decision-making in the future.
Phil Tummarello Republican
Initially drawn to Ravalli County and Montana by her singular majestic beauty, I have found that the true wealth and treasure lies in the decency and goodness of her people. Having lived in other parts of the country, I have never seen or experienced a more self-reliant and interdependent community as Ravalli County. I still remember attempting to deliver food in support of those fighting the Roaring Lion fire and was heartened and amazed that on four occasions my contributions were turned away as they had no more capacity to take anything else, so I donated my contributions to the food bank. The community responses on multiple occasions to assist those on the receiving end of misfortune have been characteristically generous and inspired. For the first time in my life, I feel truly at home. I did not have the good fortune to be born here, but after sixteen years here, I know I will never leave. Here, being neighborly is not a slogan, it is a present and constant reality. I am not running for this position for any other reason than to once again answer the call to public service that people have asked me to fulfill. I have a B.S. degree in Management from St. Mary’s College, Moraga, Ca., and pursued a B.S. from Indiana University, Bloomington, in Music Performance and Comparative Religious Studies through a double degree program. I have a servant’s heart because I am a person of faith which teaches reflect God’s love through selfless service to others. I served in public service for twentythree years as a highly decorated Sgt./ Inspector of the San Francisco Police Department, surviving being shot at six times. Recognizing an unmet need, I proposed, implemented, and supervised an interagency elder abuse task force. My training and experience responding to critical incidents - including natural disasters, demonstrations with over 300,000 participants, riots, and hazmat sites - have taught me every major event begins as a local response. How to respond to these situations is not theory to me. I have personally experienced the coordination of
interagency responses with local, state and federal agencies. If current events teach us anything, they demonstrate the consequences of inadequate and non-visionary planning. Responses should be designed in anticipation of extending capabilities beyond the limits of past experiences. It is insufficient to rationalize that as we reach varying thresholds, our response needs will be satisfied by state and/or federal management. It is the obligation of local government to meet the immediate needs of communities. This includes allocation of sufficient resources for first responders and local medical providers to have sufficient equipment to simultaneously react to extraordinary situations, as well as function on a normal level. If our first responders aren’t properly protected, they cannot effectively protect us. They are dedicated to doing the impossible; we should never insist they do the ridiculous. They should be tested daily for COVID-19 infection for their own well-being and ours. I believe it is advantageous to have a County Commissioner who has professional experience in these matters that enables them to efficiently assess budget requests from allied county agencies in order to facilitate and enhance their responses. I was amazed to see the county’s only hospital literally begging for basic PPE supplies before any patients required COVID-19 services. That level of unpreparedness is inexplicably inadequate; we need more visionary planning. Prior to my law enforcement career, I worked as a sous chef in Seattle and San Francisco. As such, I am intimately aware of the difficulties maintaining viable operations presents our restaurants, who employ so many valley residents. Upon moving to the Bitterroot Valley, I immediately became involved in the community, first as a volunteer at St. Mary’s Historic Mission and subsequently as a member of its Board of Directors. From this, I learned the historical legacy of Ravalli County is built on cooperation and mutual respect shared between groups of peoples with disparate backgrounds and interests. Subsequently, I became involved in the Ravalli County 4-H program for six years as an archery instructor and then a co-leader of the archery program with Scott Hale. It is from this experience that I was shown the importance of providing hunting access to valley residents on my farm. Eight years ago, I started Bitterroot Mountain View Farm, following in the footsteps of my grandfather, who was a farmer in New York state. Like my grandfather, I began a commercial trucking operation as an owner-operator, traveling throughout the country. Currently, there is no one on the county commission who is a small business owner. I was asked to seek appointment to the Ravalli County Right to Farm and Ranch board, where I served for several years and spearheaded an attempt to address the issue of crop depredation from wildlife visited upon the farmers of this valley, who lose hundreds of thousands of dollars annually due to FWP wildlife management. Although that attempt was not as successful as we would have liked, it did result in the establishment of special hunting district 262, created to help mitigate crop damage on farms and to provide expanded hunting access on private property. The money lost through crop depredation is money that would otherwise be contributing to the local economy; these losses must be stopped. Before I started my farm, I was a professional musician who toured extensively with the Henry Mancini Orchestra and the Barry White Love Unlimited Orchestra. I also performed with the San Francisco Chamber Orchestra as well as the San Francisco Opera. My experiences enabled me to recognize the importance of well-rounded
Wednesday, May 6, 2020 public education opportunities, a conviction confirmed by watching my two sons grow up in the Stevensville School system (in which my youngest son Vincent, will be a junior this fall). My oldest son, Michael, attended Boys State through the sponsorship of the American Legion Post in Stevi, was elected governor, and then selected for Boys Nation in Washington DC. He graduated from Princeton University last June. Ravalli County helped make that possible. Thank you. One of the foremost issues I see in Ravalli County is the protection of private property rights, which are fundamental to the American way of life. It is essential for the prosperity of the individual that they have control over their property and destiny. If the county has confidence in your ability to manage your property to the extent that the county benefits by collecting taxes from it, then the county should have at least as much confidence in your ability to manage your own properties to your benefit first and the county’s secondarily. There is no need for a one-size-fits-all zoning policy, excluding incorporated municipalities. The county already has a mechanism in place for citizens who may choose to initiate zoning on their own properties as they deem appropriate, subject to the approval of the county through CZID. Ranchers and farmers are better stewards of the land than any program initiated in and managed from Helena or Washington DC. Environmental policies should be established, prioritized, and managed locally as much as possible. Our rights are bestowed by God and not through men or governments. Our founders recognized the only form of legitimate governance exists when these rights lie beyond any government reach, particularly our own. These rights and liberties have been protected at great cost on our native soil and others around the world. The selfless sacrifice of past and present generations of our warriors is a legacy of the highest order in human history. I am committed to our veterans and their families. I will not betray them, their honored memories, or your constitutional rights under any circumstances. Fidelity to our constitutional republic as a nation of individual states is not negotiable for me. It is sacrosanct and inviolable. Our county needs to aggressively combat the tragedy of suicide. The leading cause of preventable death amongst adolescents in the United States is suicide. I recently attended a presentation by the Director of Montana’s Office of Suicide Prevention in Missoula. I learned that prior to its loss of credibility relating to the Wuhan virus, the WHO forecast suicide as the leading cause of death world-wide in twenty years. We have lost the light of at least three young lives in our county this past year alone. From our collective grief and anguish we must offer hope to the hopeless through education, counseling, and public policies which clearly demonstrate our commitment to the intrinsic values of human life and the dignity of the human person in how we treat one another. When it comes to the health and well-being of citizens, there is no place for political bickering. Decisions must be made based upon accurate and reliable data, not meaningless computer-generated models which have proven to be woefully inadequate due to manipulation. The Ravalli County Health Board relies upon Dr. Carol Calderwood’s medical expertise to formulate the county-level response to the current pandemic. I virtually attended one of the meetings and specifically asked Dr. Calderwood how long it might take to implement COVID-19 testing in order to assure healthy people were not subject to a lockdown. I also asked her if she was familiar with the recently developed Abbott testing. She stated that she was unaware of the Abbott test (a major breakthrough in testing for the virus, which provides test results in five minutes if you are positive or thirteen if you are negative) and questioned its reliability. I was troubled by the fact
that she said she was unaware of it after it had been in the news for months and was universally acclaimed as a significant advancement in addressing the need for reliable test data. My concern is this: if the doctor was unaware of the test, how could she question its reliability? She went on to state that, based on her “feeling,” the level of infection in our county would dramatically increase despite no evidence to-date of community spread. Dr. Calderwood characterized the state’s response to the COVID19 virus as “great.” I have not met Dr. Calderwood inperson and I am not questioning her commitment or integrity in any way. Quite the contrary, I honor her service as a medical professional and of those in the trenches fighting for us. However, less than one week aIer our conversation, the governor announced a graduated lifting of shelterin-place guidelines. One reason for this was the state’s reliance on utilization of Abbott testing. I have since learned from a local physician who uses this test that it has an efficacy rate of over ninety percent; contrast this with the fifty-three percent efficacy of seasonal flu vaccines. Public safety demands that responses to any crisis be fact-driven. We do not have the luxury, nor should we develop the inclination, to chance responses based on emotions. On the brighter side, we can take solace and comfort that in Montana, unlike other states, infected medical professionals, suspected infected, and infected elders – the most susceptible virus targets – were not subjected to state health department orders to be admitted into senior health care communities. Nor were physicians here prohibited from treating their patients with pharmaceuticals successfully used for nearly sixty-five years in related applications and authorized by the CDC for compassionate use to treat patients due to mere government whimsy and political actors. If those who make public policy cannot fulfill their obligations as adults to truly serve the public they are sworn to serve, then they should be removed from office for a permanent “time out” by voters. There are those who say they want to join their voice to those of other commissioners. While I appreciate the sentiment, I have a more expansive vision. The only voices I want to join with mine are YOURS. Together we can keep Ravalli County the brightest jewel in Montana’s crown as “the last best place.” With sincerest humility, I seek your support to be your Ravalli County Commissioner from District 2. You can reach me by email at philiptummarello@gmail.com and I invite you to visit me on Facebook via Phil Tummarello for Ravalli County Commissioner.
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others, but it started in Ravalli County with Dan’s vision for the future. He was also involved in the formation of the Right to Farm and Ranch Board. His leadership and vision for the future of the quality of life in Ravalli County has been an unbelievable success story and can’t be completely covered in a letter to the editor. He knows this County better than anyone I know and his contributions to the County as a Commissioner will continue to benefit everyone that lives here now or will live here in the future. We are growing and will continue to grow, and we need Dan’s intelligence and leadership to grow in a manner that benefits everyone. Please cast your vote for Dan Huls for Ravalli County Commissioner. You will never regret your decision. Sonny LaSalle Hamilton
Support for Ballance
My name is Ken Holmlund. I am a third term Representative from Miles City (HD 38). It has been my honor to have served all three terms in the Appropriations Committee. The Chair of Appropriations during that time has been Nancy Ballance. Nancy is known as the hardest working and the most knowledgeable legislator concerning the budget of Montana. Her leadership has led to balanced budgets through diligent oversight of State department’s budgets. True leadership is a matter of results, not sound bites and Nancy has a record of results. Nancy has been my mentor for my time in the legislature. She has been proven to be a wonderful mentor and is the reason I am ready to assume leadership in Appropriations. Without any reservations, it is my honor to support Nancy Ballance to be the State Senator from SD 44. Montana needs her steady hand and experience in the Senate. Rep. Ken Holmlund HD 38 Miles City
Legislators supporting local Veterans
The only substantive veterans’ legislation to come out of Helena in decades passed into law in 2019. HB 172, which encourages and supports the creation of county veterans’ service offices (like the one we have in Ravalli County), would never have been signed into law had three of your local legislators not worked together to make it happen. Representative David Bedey (HD 86) worked with local veterans to draft the bill. He kept it alive during the long approval process, despite opposition from both the far left and the far right. In the end, he was able to gain the state adjutant general’s support, and now serious work is being done at the state level to ensure that all veterans receive access to the VA benefits they have earned. Senator Jason Ellsworth (SD 43) co-sponsored the bill. His efforts behind the scenes ensured that there was enough bipartisan support to keep the bill alive when it faced opposition in the Senate. Representative Nancy Ballance (currently a candidate for SD 44) also cosponsored the bill. She intervened late in the very long, very difficult process when it appeared that the governor was poised to veto HB 172. The credibility she had gained over eight years of being the legislature’s most effective fiscal leader made it possible to change the governor’s mind. Were it not for Bedey, Ballance, and Ellsworth, HB 172 would have never become law. Every politician courts the veteran
vote by praising veterans for their service. Some might even host ice cream socials. But only a very few are willing to follow up with the hard work necessary to actually DO something for veterans. You might remember that when you cast your vote in the upcoming election. Gary MacLaren Former State Representative HD 87 Life Member VVA 938, American Legion Corvallis Post 91 Victor
Support for Greef
We wholeheartedly endorse Sharon Greef for the House of Representatives. Sharon acquired a great deal of experience with legislature when her husband Ed served. Her passion for fairness, public issues and the legislative process emerged. We have been friends with Ed and Sharon for 20 years. Sharon has a servant’s heart, cares for all people and is a master at the art of listening. She is truly a person that walks her talk. During her first term, we witnessed that she is principled in conservative family values but at the same time, will listen to both sides on an issue before making a decision. In these times of hyperpartisan politics, Sharon has the ability to maintain civil discourse. We are confident that Sharon’s foundation in faith, her fortitude and foresight will serve us all well into the future. Tom and Tara Lee Leonard Florence
Support for Bedey
I am writing this letter to urge your support of the reelection of Representative David Bedey for House District 86. David is one of the best legislators I have met in several years. I first met Representative Bedey during the last session as we were on opposite sides of a veteran bill he was sponsoring. Although he met resistance to his bill he was not deterred. Many legislators would charge forward and push their bill without any regard to opposing views. Not Representative Bedey. He engaged anyone and everyone he could to hear their concerns and work to address them so his bill would ultimately help veterans throughout Montana. His unbiased efforts led to the passage of significant veteran legislation and set the stage for future legislative action to support our Montana veterans. In my four decades of advocating for our Montana military members, veterans, and their families - as well as having served in the legislature – I recognize Representative Bedey as a gem. His experience in the military, his thirst for knowledge and quest for facts are the qualifications we all want candidates to possess. David’s expertise and genuine concern for his constituents is not limited to veteran issues. I watched him work tirelessly, researching the issues, asking questions of those around him and making decisions based upon the best information he could find. That is the kind of legislator that must be returned to Helena to support the constituents of House District 86. It is because of these reasons that I am supporting the reelection of Representative David Bedey. I urge you to vote to reelect Representative David Bedey to House District 86. He is truly a man who cares for his constituents. Roger Hagan Great Falls
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Support for Tranel
There is one little known, but very important, Montana election this year which is for the Public Service Commission (PSC). Although the PSC is one of the smallest agencies in MT, it has a presence in virtually every minute of our lives. From the moment you wake in the morning and turn on the lights and throughout the entire day, all investor-owned utility use- electricity, natural gas, water and waste-water, telecommunications and telephone- is regulated by the PSC. These utilities are not only in our homes, but also in our places of business, schools, medical clinics and hospitals, essentially everywhere. The PSC regulates rates and service quality for our investor-owned utilities, ensuring that ratepayers (that’s us- who pay the bills) have “continued access to utility services that are affordable, reliable and sustainable.” That’s a very big and extremely important job that affects us directly, from our pocketbooks to our planet. NorthWestern Energy, whose resources include coal from Colstrip, has resisted the inclusion of new renewable energy. The cost for electricity generated at Colstrip is over $70/ MWh (megawatt hour), compared to the rates the Commission has given to solar and new wind projects, which are in the low $20/MWh. It turns out that wind is an excellent renewable energy resource- it is always blowing somewhere in Montana - and it peaks in the winter when other renewables aren’t peaking. Our energy system across Montana is integrated, and cooperatives, such as Ravalli Electric are distribution entities that buy power from NorthWestern, and use its transmission grid. We live on a shared planet. While you may be coop customers at home, you likely work, shop, eat out, and our kids go to school at places that are NorthWestern’s customers - where they get their power still affects you. Scientists tell us we have 10 years, at most, to reduce our fossil fuel use to
Wednesday, May 6, 2020
have a chance of minimizing the alreadyhappening damage from climate change. We cannot afford to lose another day, much less 4 years (the PSC term). We need a commissioner who has already been fighting, for our pocketbooks, for renewables in Montana and for our planet. Monica Tranel is a democratic candidate running for PSC from our district. She has over two decades of experience fighting for Montanans as an attorney, arguing in front of the PSC and the courtroom. She has the spirit and grit, the commitment and experience to start the hard work from day one. All voting is being done by mail for this primary election and ballots will be mailed out on May 8. Be sure to vote all the way down the ballot to the PSC and please vote for Monica Tranel. Hillery Daily Darby
Support for Cooney
I remember meeting Mike Cooney for the first time back in 2013. I was knocking doors to meet folks early in my first campaign for legislature. The Griz game was about to start, but I decided to visit one or two more doorsteps before kickoff. Mike was settling in to watch, yet, he answered the door with that great big Cooney greeting, “How are you?” He took the time to talk and missed the start of the game. Since then, we’ve worked together on legislation to improve people’s lives and even rallied for social change at the first Women’s March at Montana’s Capitol. I was proud to read Mike’s statement at this year’s 2020 Women’s March. “The work to ensure dignity, respect and equality for all women continues,” Mike said. “We’ve seen continued attacks on women’s rights across the country— attacks on reproductive rights, LGBTQ rights, workers’ rights and civil rights. I’m so proud to stand with the strong Montana women who are fighting for a brighter future for all of us.”
Now, during this pandemic, Mike Cooney is working together with Gov. Bullock and public health to make sure our future remains bright, and that you, your family, and your community stay safe and in good health. Now more than ever, Montanans need strong, courageous leadership to do what’s right by them and get things done—the genuine Mike Cooney kind of leadership that he’s demonstrated throughout his extensive career in public service. That’s why I’ve endorsed Mike Cooney for our next Governor, am voting for him, and hope you do too. During this public health emergency, Mike’s overriding concern for Montanans is just as it was on his doorstep years ago with that great big Cooney greeting, “How are you?” Rep. Mary Ann Dunwell, HD84 Helena
Support for Bennion
With Tim Fox term-limited, we will elect a new Attorney General this year. I support Fox’s Chief Deputy Attorney General, Jon Bennion. Serving as Fox’s chief of staff for most of his first term was the greatest privilege of my career. I worked closely with Jon. He has the knowledge, experience, work ethic, and judgment for the job. Navigating the Attorney General’s world and Montana’s complex Department of Justice is no small task. The law enforcement community has high regard for Jon. He works well with everyone, is an excellent listener, and has the courage to tackle difficult issues. Jon is managing key projects such as getting all unsubmitted rape kits tested and the Attorney General’s substance-abuse initiative. Jon is a phenomenal human being. He is kind, compassionate, and a tremendous husband and father. He is a man of the utmost integrity with the heart of a public servant. What’s more, Jon is a natural leader who doesn’t take himself too seriously.
This is an easy choice. No one is better prepared than Jon to take on this important job and be a conservative leader for our state. Please join me in supporting Jon Bennion as Montana’s next Attorney General. Scott Darkenwald Whitefish
Support or Dudik
Kimberly Dudik is the most impressive and qualified candidate to become our next Attorney General. She is a proven leader and fighter for creating lasting change in Montana. She has had a remarkable career as a nurse, an attorney, and a State Representative. Nobody is more fitting to be our next Attorney General. I know that Kimberly Dudik will work to protect me as an employee in the Missoula restaurant industry during the Covid-19 pandemic. Kimberly Dudik has unique experience in healthcare as a former nurse and is dedicated to protecting the health, safety, and rights of employees statewide. With hours cut and many employees relying on unemployment like me, workers deserve the best to protect them. Kimberly Dudik is a dependable candidate that consistently reaches across the aisle while working in the Montana State Legislature in order to enact real change for our state. This has been shown through her work as a private attorney and assistant Attorney General protecting vulnerable populations, her work in the legislature expanding healthcare access, and working with our Attorney General to protect our elderly against fraudulent ads and scams. In our time of uncertainty and crisis, this is the sort of leadership we need and should expect in our government to fight for Montanans. Make history and join me to elect one of Montana’s greatest, Kimberly Dudik, in the June primary to become our first female AG! Isaac Mahn Missoula
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PUBLIC SERVICE IS NOT NEW TO ME. I SWORE TO PRO-
TECT AND DEFEND OUR CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS FROM ALL ENEMIES; FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC.
AMERICA IS SINGULARLY UNIQUE IN HUMAN HISTORY BECAUSE THE FOUNDERS OF OUR NATION DESIGNED OUR GOVERNMENT SPECIFICALLY TO POSITION THESE RIGHTS BEYOND THE REACHES OF ANY GOVERNMENT, BUT ESPECIALLY OUR OWN. OUR RIGHTS EXTEND TO ALL CITIZENS REGARDLESS OF THEIR STATION IN LIFE IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES AND PARTICULARLY FOR THOSE WITH WHOM WE DISAGREE. OUR GOD GIVEN RIGHTS REMAIN INTACT SOLELY DUE TO THE COUNTLESS AND OFTEN UNHERALDED SELFLESS SACRIFICES OF OUR VETERANS AND FIRST RESPONDERS. I WILL NEVER BETRAY THEM OR YOU. YOU AND ONLY YOU ARE QUALIFIED TO EXERCISE YOUR RIGHT TO MAINTAIN PRIVATE PROPERTY FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY'S PROSPERITY! EMAIL ME AT PJT803@HOTMAIL.COM OR VISIT MY FACEBOOK PAGE: PHIL TUMARELLO FOR RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONER
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