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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The VolumeXXXIX, XXXVII, Number 37 29 Volume XL, Number Number 25 35 39 30 XXXVII, Number 28 33 29 Volume XXXVII, Number
’ ! l a c o L Best at Wednesday, January 1, 2025 Wednesday, March 30, 2022 Wednesday, February 2022 Wednesday, January 13, 2024 Wednesday, March 6,2022 Wednesday, January 31, 2024 Wednesday, February 2,9, April26, 10,
www.bitterrootstar.com
Historic trap club faces closure Sapphire Valley subdivision approved Valley finally sees some snow Mine talk draws hundreds celebrates new shelter, 50th anniversary Shelter hosts slumber ‘Pawty’ Coffee withheld the Candidate! Eagles in winter Groundbreaking for medical Bitter Root Humane Association Three Mile Community Centercenter open Every Tuesday 10am-11am at Frontier Cafe in Stevensville
by Victoria by Victoria Howell Howell by Michael Howell by Kristin Kruse
Find out more at www.GregOverstreet.com
speech, occupa-
shelter. $140,000. a levy, so this won’t have any tional and physical andAccording wells. Irrigation will be concerns about the potencould herald major ty for failing to do the proper Thechanges park additional impact on people’s therapy services – provided by shares tial impacts to the roads, to other in similar the subdivision review the environmental by John Dowd space filledfrom up sothe fast they had to open giving many talks about Alliance analysis website.oftaxes. It’s been a long time to Colleen board made property The Hamilton Ravalli County Mile Company. public safety, and across the impacts byincluding handing its the therapy theCreek presentation into other rooms and to wildlife, the Sheep Creek process Mine proposal. over 220 people The TrapThree Club has Eight coming, but the new Schmiedeke, thestate decisionThe event Indrew addition to theaoff loan, Bitterroot Health Commissioners gave condiAccording toonthewere prelimito the rural character of the is a founder was alsoofdiscussed. In that mandated duties to“It other On Monday, February 26, Dr. people lined up out the door. Ramsey the Bitterto the Bitterroot River Inn. was Mile Community Center is up who serves to take out a project was paid for by been a fixture in the Bitterroot pool – plus imaging held a approval groundbreakby Michael Howell and cut the ribbon at last week’sthe tional last week to theOswald subdivision area. A substantial number of case, the Upper agencies and ignoring numerPhillip Ramsey, head biologist at nary MPG heardisRamsey’s presenroot Clean Water Alliance, as wellMissouri as to finish really a good turnout,” saidservices. Oswald. It and running. Located at 4433 both plat the park loan Three Mile Community Valley since 1947. A place for and lab ceremony, said concerning the Senior ing last Wednesday the Sapphire Valley Estates anticipated to add approxcomments concern group ous specific, documentable, Ranch in Florence, a presentatation in Darby and contacted him, expressed a resident of the Waterkeepers West Fork. Heand has was attended by(the people from all over Sunnyside Cemetery Road, board and the thea project. Center official name) trap enthusiasts andgave hunting Bishop said “It organization’s 50 years of service, An open house celebration was for new medical subdivision, aon 33-lot developimately 11 new children to do one about the potential impacts to of residents close and clearly defined impacts tion in partnership with the Ravalli asking if he could with the a Ph.D in microbiology and inliving school Montana, including Anacontheits center is the east side community She saidtowestern they which raised over $80,000 sport shooters to gather, sotheyas hope to have held last week at the Bitter Root the was started by environment a bunch offar little old by John Dowd ment on athat 49.22-acre parcel Florence-Carlton existing wells in the area thatstudied thethe proposed Creek to the such as complex will beThe County Fish and Wildlife Association RCFWA. TheSchool event was co-sponsored specifically effects Horse of heavy da, and Missoula, and away as of Lone Rock Park. buildcenter board, worked with through community picnics, cialize, compete and hone their ladies in 1972 and it’s still run by amay Humane Association’s (BRHA) new the facility open of formerly agricultural land District and 264 new vehicare already experiencing a Hills subdivision challenged the decreasing water abun(RCFWA), on the Sheep Creek Mine by the Bitterroot chapter of Trout Unmetal contamination in rivers. He has Helena and even into Idaho. This ing contains a large meeting they started Farmers State rummage sales, bingo nights skills, the north club also built just of functions as a Last weekend the Bitter animal located on Fairgrounds ofdance little old ladies.” near the intersection ofMark Eight ular tripslimited. per dayRamsey, to the local lowering of staticpublished water levels both Broadwater County and been in the area and failing proposal. According to Oswald, according to Oswald, over 70 papers, according toto bunch have because many area conserroom, ashelter warming kitchen, aRoot working on Bank keep and donations from commuby spring of 2023, 501c3 non-profit the Stevensville at thesupporting Humane Association participatMile and Upper road system. Additionally, having the Department of Natural analyze the impacts on the RoadCreek in Hamilton. The event served Butts, President of the president ofRoad the RCFWA, the event was excited to speak, andand hassome been alreadyhis bio ontothe Bitterroot Clean Water state-of-the-art audio visual this ain 2012 their loan Kathieto nity members. Other major community by providing youth and that they plan See Mine, page 19 corner of Kootenai ed for the first time in BitteraofnationWoodchuck Road east the be drilled deeper. Concerns Resources and Conservation aquifer. Board, said, “This organization has double purpose. included system, and a gorgeous view a ribbon andapplicant incorpo- is proposing to payments contributors were the Three programs such as It The on continuing to al “slumber party” event. The Creek Road and Florence. TheAccording land is honor being a 100-foot by 100were also expressed about the (DNRC) over thereasonable. processcome and such while thethe of the Bitterroot Mountains tothededicate rated Mile Fireway District, Lone cutting ceremony in of new in 2014. a“Thus, long since itCounty was root Blasters. to club expand Bitterroot shelter branded their Hwy 93. including developed by Laura Watson of whole foot easement impacts to other irrigators the lack of information about is technically correct thataFamthe the west. She said the for the use and Those payRock Park and theservices. Rapp members, hundreds of kids have started about 50 years ago. I feel facility, tours of the event the “Slumber Pawty,” whichbenefit “We’rethe bringing the Watson Homes LLC who was of is the Florence Rural dependent on the Eight Mile water quantity and quality, or sense duty to provide statutorily The building isarray now home total cost ments come ily of Foundation. John Bishop, Bitparticipated in an that program building, and of food and huge responsibility to honor opened the shelter to community represented by the engineerFire District and contribute Creek Company, storm runoff, impacts to wildlife on nearby required information lies with care to the patients, to the senior center and the approximateout of park Schmiedeke said there over the years. Along their terroot CEO, those who have come before us and ” drink inHealth honor of thewith organization’s members who participated to stay ing company Professional $8,000 to the Florence Rural and the impacts on Eight Mile landowners. 71 Ranch [the developer], the Weekend Backpack Program ly $500,000. taxes that are it as were many who own programs, the club supports said. make good as he itvolunteers can be as we set 50th birthday. said that Marcus the night with theraised animals, amongFire Consultants Inc. (PCI). District. Creek. In his ruling, District Court County is incorrect in its imthat serves Lone Rock School. When already being helped on the project, and charities and has over Hedgeby John Dowd The private non-profi t organization the course for the nextLois 50 years.” Daly Hospital had other fun activities. Between 12 Schmiedeke proposal ispark for sinThe Commissioners A recent court decision Judge Michael McMahon plication that the County can TheThe surrounding conassessed, TMCSC received reduced $165,000 for the Shriners andIn peth, chair ofwithout the McCormack said that the was fi rst organized in 1972. 1984, noon Saturday and 12 noon The Sun- received gle-family residential use dozens of written over a proposed subdivision criticized both the county and approve a subdivision tains soccer and baseball “got really Schmiedeke prices from contractors. The The Hope Project. ItMontana is often said that Three Mile Community Senior Center board members, l to r, Colorganization conducted a successful Countess Margarite Bessenyey, the day, participants stayed overnight hospital board, with individual septic systems public comments expressing in Broadwater County that DNRC. He criticized the counfields, tennis and volleyball involved,” the is proud that general contractor donated laclub islocally utilized by local schools, little owned leen Schmiedeke, Joyce Pando and Wendy Audiss in front of the SAPPHIRE, page 14 with the animals, fundraisingSee campaign to fund the new granddaughter ofpath, Marcus Daly, gave said this project courts, ashelter walking a wore playgroup had they didn’t Teller Wildlife Refuge, Boy Scouts bookstores are aon waning See the CENTER, page 3 pajamas, played games and more new community center at Lone Rock Park. Photo by V. Howell. construction but then Covid-19 the BRHA land Fairgrounds Road ground and a covered picnic raised about have to run has been four years and TripleHowever, Creek Ranch, Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Director Al Mitchell holds the group spell-bound as Bitbusiness. the among in support of thelease. shelter. with a 99-year Six years later, pandemic hit and construction others. in the works, costs but folks that own Chapter ter Root Humane Association Board Member Sue McCormack prepares to cut the ribbon Shelters all over the U.S. and skyrocketed. As a result, the group in 1990, the Bessenyey estate deeded The current executive diOne Book Store, in Hamthere were some John Bishop, pictured fifth from left, leads a gathering of people involved in the celebrating the opening of the new animal shelter in Hamilton. Photo by Michael Howell. even out of the country held the had to take out a mortgage to finish the land totake the organization where rector, Tom Allsop, has been ilton, may exception delays due to the same event during the same 24Bitterroot Health project inKristin a ceremonial groundbreaking. The facility on Trap the property that had housed Sueby McCormack, who serves on Hamilton Club members line up forbuilding athe shoot. Photo Kruse. the current shelter is located. The to this, as they were re-is apage See TRAP, See SHELTER, page hour period. The event fund-5 pandemic. She said2 shelter since 1984. the organization’s board of directors will be built on land located at the corner of Kootenai Creek Road and Hwy 93 new building replaces an old building cently awarded for being raiser for each shelter, and partictheir vision is that by “outstanding John Dowdmodel Accordingjust to Steinhoff, have north of “We the Stevensville Junction. an bytoNathando. Boddy cumstances, having She adds that the ipants each work to raise funds to act now, and stay ahead of this.” people the Stevensville business,” according to encountered most important donate to theirCity respective Hamilton Council shelters. met TuesMayor Dominic Farrenkopf said to mail Christine Staub, a driving falling victim way to combat the Hamilton Downtown facility will besuch more Darby, Victor and Corvallis, as well as been providing “quality, Individual businesses day, Marchcommunity 5They to discuss several there was not much they knew to do force at the Boxxe Shoppe at fraud in the past. Hamilton. abuse is forthan people Association. will of a “medical center” rather just a also donated to the fundraiser, accessible, upcoming city projects. at thewas time, though theypersonalized may to ship901 S. 1st Street, recently As aneed certified to ask questions also be celebrating 50 However, amounting to over $10,000 as of clinic. She also said that Marcus Daly for 90 people years. when of theoperation. meeting opened, concern looka into it ashealth “more and more presented with Certificate of care” ping depot for FedEx, The new 12-acre campus will and start conyears Murphy. Shethe led the Saturday. isversation a critical access provide primary, care, urgent care and Hospital, which about the Sheep Creek mine following are talking about this.” Farrenkopf In recent years, they Appreciation by Mayor Domithe Boxxe Shoppe with those Chapter One has three by John Dowd commissioners through There were over 35 participants a meeting held aaccordcouple weeksnic earsaidand thatHamilton washave all he could say on it atto tospecialty services. Two physicians have hospital, was recently rated #4byinlove. the Farrenkopf istaking legally justified you know co-owners, and been steps a lengthy fundand fund by Victoria Howell me like a ton of of the slumber party, and a barbelier,to made ityear, into theMara opening.Police After Chiefthe time. Snavely. However, at the end of the Stephen open a package which Staub doesn’t nation for quality by the national rating one of them, Every the Ravalli accounting that, to sum already been hired, along with a nurse invest in all the commucue was held at noon on Saturday, bricks.” that, the council said goodbye to his thepresentation meeting,toduring the non-agenda items In the City bears its shipping know the details Lynn Luther, that is one County Fish and Wildlife Assoit up, shows the county, ing agency, out of 351 similar facilities. practitioner, andwas two more doctors welcoming of the community tois congregating Numerous Bald Eagles have been in the Burnt area to feed onOverstreet carcasses. Photos nities of Fork the Bitterroot, When it all comes beloved long-time city clerk, who discussion thelately counCouncil on March 15th,period, Chief several label.ofAfter following of what potential of the many ways ciation works to they affect conseroverall, doing very well visit the shelter. by Michael Howell. by Victoria Howell are being recruited. There will also be he said, with clinics in to Covid, Greg sent home from retiring. cil members weighed in on Steinhoff’s Snavely said that he wants the protocol, and doing victims are told, but have been so successvation inofthe Bitterroot through on its tax collections and Stevensville sees first substantial snow of the winter last Sunday. Photo by John Dowd. Many the participants that The Bitterroot Na-comment Overstreet hasthe a other During the public period Police comments. Hamilton Department so in the presence of the hospital with she knows that over they ful. Joined by showing revenues various projects and programs. spent the night were kids. During tional Forest (BNF) willRoberttoSteinThe Cowboy Ball at the 50% Ravalli Countycoached message forprogram you: of the such council meeting, “We need to keep our eyes onStaub it,” was an oxygen tank. “become more vocal about a witness, are, “often owners, Katrina Mendrey of projections in One is their the party, participants hostslumber afool public meeting Fairgrounds will be held February 12th. is hoff stood to address the council. He said council member Jenny West. “It don’t around! He was home for the good things that happen able to uncover the to say they This are shipand Marisa Neyenhuis, most departments while scholarship program, which took part in a “tortilla slap game,” thisOverstreet, Wednesday, March explained that he attended a meeting might be beneficial to talk to Darby the tenth annual event and the way it’s shaping within the community.” Sharunfortunate contents ping legal papers two or three days. by Michael Howell Luther believes having Participating youth getting ready to spend the night with puppies at the shelter. Photo by John Dowd. expenses have only or awards three winners who can 30th from 6 toRavalli 8 p.m. See PETS, page hosted byan the County Fish anddepartment’s and possibly Stevensville as package: well.” HernearlyDuring that time, ing11 his experiof the paperwork.” Other up, it’s going to be an event worthy oftoa23% jubilee an attorney in amounted of three people allows them display interest in pursuing to share Association informationand Troutence Wildlife Unlimthoughts were shared $16,000 bythe several with Ms. Staub was one inother cash, commondue tactics for and former council member, public at the next meeting Halfway through celebration. projections in large to do it related all. “We couldn’t private practice in his oxygen level fields to conservation, by Victoria Howell regarding the developited. The meeting called upon Dr. Philcouncil members. such opportunity. which the customer scammers include the budget year, the part jobyear’s vacancies Rod Freeman is the chair of to this do it without each other,” wild land ethics or natural appears to be continuing when the council considers Stevensville, was went down to 51, ment of a draft forest lip Ramsey toThe speak on the dangers In discussion agenda send-from a normal of In early March, a custom-on regular was unwittingly claiming county’s performance that have yetto torepbe filled. said Luther. spread sciences. event. Freeman is also the chair of the Rodeo diagnosed with his efforts to teach the new the appointment of two addiClimbing Management the second regular of aAt proposed mine up Sheep Creek. items, theShoppe first to be brought er came to the Boxxe ing to aforward scammer in resent the IRS or in is looking pretty good, One big savings was of responsibility allows For the year of 2023, one Committee, and the vice chair of the Fair Board, colon cancer in 99. “I jokingly say Plan (CMP). The virtual“I thought counciltoand mayor howoflocal tional council members. meeting of theSteinhoff, two-member According to was the issue re-roofing the city intending send atime package Chicago, Illinois. Social Security according to Ravalli the budgeted funds ed throughout the Bitterroot. Brewfest, which he started in 1995. Now by John Dowd of that as the executive director. of the winners to receive a Mara Lynn Luther sits in Chapter One’s used books section. Photo by John Dowd. which he’s been onby forNa12 years. A real estate for February of 2021. that 51 is brain Staub of the Boxxe Shoppe. Photo meeting will betoheld on See BOOKS, page 18 should run. He that “We’ll dobeour job, ” Christine said it wasn’t going affect me,on but street shop. According to Hamilton viaI government FedEx. After Administration. County CFO Klarryse the county’s share in Stevensville Town Council, Al became a member in 1988, and that event is one of the biggest in the it was announced he would check was Savannah Deuter, agent for 18 years here in the Bitterroot, and also He wentSee through damage material.” Zoom. below for only takeThe than Boddy. learned that it would City Public Works Director, Donny customer was a frequent commenter Gibson got into it because he owns thein Paper For him, theSometimes experiencethey has been On graduated Wednesday, March 27, the retiring, he was asked to speak, and was who high school in just January 27, town clerk Jenelle the Army valley. for 21 years, his and instructions and a link chemotherapy and But COVID-19 Seeorganizational COUNTY, page 10 seemed con-introduced will tell their one little mistake and we will all be Ramer, theby building is usedhis fordaughsnow Clip in downtown Hamilton. It was a “chance to meet with a lot of great Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce Jodi Mitchell, at council meetings during Joan Mell, an attorney May of 2023. She has so far familiar with the profile of the Berthoud told the council and to late join August theSteinhoff meeting. Fivethat fundraising skills, and discipline, haveone been put to in he was was no joke. “It fused and unOver the victims that a loved has hurting.” said he heard plow storage and for other maintesuggested to him that he victims, get involved people all over the valley,” and all of it hosted apublic well-attended mid-day event ter-in-law and the executive completed a she semester of college the last administration. In current from Hamilton, was recpotential butuse wishes similar meetings audience that was having good as chair of the Cowboy Ball committee. by John Dowd United States Marine Corps. He was course has surgeries willgot need tothe undergo lot the travel Though told that the cancer got so Ihe felt familiar with of herbadHe landed inout jail,of orpocket. that a prize about the track record ofannual the company nance equipment. According tochamRato network. then onto board hasof been “extremely rewarding.” for members, giving their report, director. Al gave a history of the and submitted her transcript that others within the commupublic comment, Crews told ognized for stepping in (virtual) were held in primarily an Explosive Ordinance on his legs, which will put him in a he is glad he kept his family home, Freeman said the committee hopes to raise trouble streaming the meetthe process, with has the been won, but a fee needs had been eradicated. I couldn’t when Ramsey told how it was notwhat very ber, mer,and it isspoke the original roof, which has decade in like the early 90s,nity andwould in 2012 he her became was executive director untilit reviewing 2023 andof talking about about important memproviding proof compLeting help look outwasAlfinancially 2021. the council that those makto handle the prosecution For many who return from military Disposal Technician (EOD), or bomb wheelchair for an extended period of difficult. $50,000 this year, for the expansion of the and Staub the Boxxe to be paid for release of the good. stated that the someduring significant leaks and Overstreet had like I their safety. At least one2020. Since then he has been therodeo ings onSteinhoff the internet. said thebreathe, executive director. advithey have planned forShe the upcoming bers that time that ledinsulation up to him associated courses. These arecomfor In addition to the by John Dowd chines. service, adjusting to civilian life can technician. A couple of years ago he time. After returning home, even after became susShoppe, Staub funds. The getting scammers will ing public comment should caseload of Town Attorney pany has supposedly been in the state issues. Ramer believes the new roof bucking chutes. “They’re just old,” he said. surgery on YouTube October was being water Throughout that time, he knew sor for Jodi, helping her transition into year. During the meeting, it was also taking on the position. the former chantwo of several criteria appliof the potential victims she opportunity to learn In addition to the heating custom leathbe difficult. This is doubly true when retired due to a traumatic brain injury During his treatment, he flew back his series of treatments, he had troupicious when has now commonly use a legitimate seven times already, and each time left will cut down on the bill and “They need to be replaced. They’re getting banged address the mayor, not the Greg Overstreet while he was 23, 2021 for ostomy or aided whatand “The story of the Bitterroot Valley 55boarded, board members participated the role. Al will be retiring in August this announced that long-time member, Al cants must meet tolonger be eligible was ainresident at a local nel they had was no about and participate Following the closure ofthe a longtime erwork, Jake’s is featuring they come home wounded. For Jerry he sustained inStudio astorage parachute training and forth between home Montana ble getting hired. of this was due Dominic Farrenkopf (right) awards recognition toAfter Rose Allen (left. Photo courtesy considering recovered address, butSome will be ready to taxpayers with the billin for cleanup. allow better dry of equipment up. Bucking stock can be hard on metal.” Chamber is the story of optimism, strugin some of the greatest growth in the year. Al spoke, Jodi stood to thank Mitchell, will be retiring and stepping removal, the fi nal I imagine water for a scholarship. audience. He also said, “This hospitalized, and then recovextended nursing facility and the process of developworking but they had set up Stevensville Main Street business, Rivthe work of more than a dozen local Browe, a retired Marine, home life and incident. According to him, after sevand North Carolina. He wanted his to both mental and physical difficulties the customapproximately grab the package from a porch Dominic Farrenkopf. Steinhoff then asked ifrequirethere was anygle and triumphs,” said Al.ering, He said theCovid-19. organization’s history. According towith him for cowboy all his help to remind him back from the the Chamber leadership.. The 10th annual balland – which actually Another of thesethis treatment boarding to be be provided a ride isage notand a question and answer” from Mell ing a climbing plan, er’s Mist, ain new business has recently and incidents regional artists. Many of these See COUNCIL, page 21$60,000 picking upcity the pieces after his injury eral during hisChamber service and four kids behad abletototo stay insix-month Monresulting from his injuries. top10 athing new Facebook page. Hower’s in to or front door when itOn arrives. the was doing, or even could overarching goal for the has him, what was meant be a he was only supposed to speak for Mitchell has been with the Chamments is that each applicant started 11 years ago but couldn’t be held last year to the bank as well as to the colon cancer journey. like,” recalls week’s meeting cov-his communisession. “It’s public ” their didHowever, the work charge to they have an already opened at the same Howevartists not shown work in at no was tough. Fortunately, this, hehave wascomment. finally tana, where of that, he“They still gets weekly therapy the particular all of always direct the ever, members ofwill thelocation. public always been to keepretired. businesses connect-cash, appointment to“This the position lasted 12 the pandemic minutes. ber for over 36 that years, and spent much submit a 500-word essay disBoxxe Shoppe. due to – has been upgraded this The day after Overstreet. er the following agenda er,was dissuading worries about the thehad Bitterroot Valley before, sowas there ty there toany help, andthe Browe, after this lastsaid injury was severe. in just established support system, during the sessions, which manyit,employers find details the which was to victim to send ‘no signature The of mayor previoustheHe town. “I wanted who had tried to access years, andI he enjoyed every moment cussing thewas role hunting plays “It’s common sense to me,” Jodi stated that the membership year. topics: surgery, he isfrauduwhen realized changeover, itat will place of should be a lot of interest in the new looking back his remain journey,a is more out-patient care for over a year and redifficult time. With military retirement troubling. transaction. being required,’” she adds. Fred Upchurch, Savannah Deuter and Mark Oswald hold the check given to Deuter by the Ravalli County Fish and WIldlife Associly that he would be answering publicly thank Joanoffor help-beenshe Thesays, Town offorStevensville recognized attorney Joan aup Mell, it. “It’s ride 29“This numbers have beenever “trending every pointing out that red Facebook page said it was not Unfortunate•excited Review overall first year we’ve done fully diagnosed with that I was nota good art. After two months of renovations material. ThereFred are 16 artists in total lently than for his future. memory, speech and cognitive benefits not kicking in for much of tois the de- town, The Bank Secrecy Act ation. ceived Photo courtesy Upchurch. years,” said Al. “I’m looking forward year.” However, 2023 saw the highest See RCFW, page 3 questions from the public. ing me and helping the ” flags abound when seniors are center, for town Greg Overstreet objectives and desired accessible. Berthoud asked catered dinner,” said Freeman. The University COVID-19. taking Covid while hidden behind brown-paper so far, and the owners are that always Browe served 18 years in the Browe explained he still manded that time, forced to filling pay forina while ly, it covwas nottherapy. from ofattorney 1970 requires banks topage 3 See BROWE, being on he thewas other side and partaking,” being scammed. “If a person also said that they said outcomes ofas the public ofPictured Montana Catering Service will provide theof had Covid-19. with Mell are, l to r, Overstreet, ered windows, Jake’s Studio opened more. “We like allOverstreet. kinds seniorseriously for patience she worked “I was obviously enough. Staub’sCrews firstwelcoming citizen keep track of withdrawals he added, specifically referring to the See CHAMBER, page 5 is 80 years old, and all of a conversations should beofprepared forsaid some its doors March 1.said mediums,” Lottermoser’s dinner. Desserts are provided by 4H members. time having members of $10,000 or more in order very weakened,” through the issues. Mayor Steve Gibson, council members Cindy Brown and sudden they’re coming into the The Boxxe Shoppe’s new location • Provide an update The new “It business feature Suzette Smith. encountered See page 2 bank “interesting comments” Greg Overstreet talksbusiness about hispartner, recentfrom brush with death dueSTEVI, tothe commuOverstreet. hit will Jim Crews, former mayor to5withdraw $15,000, it Stacie Barker. by Victoria at 901ofS.the 1startists Streetdisplayed in Hamilton. nity.See See COWBOY BALL page 4 SURVIVING, page by Photo Michael Howell Howell. onsite custom leatherwork by Karen Some such cirStaub is Covid. Photo by Victoria Howell. See SCAMMERS, page 2 makes my ‘spidy’ sense tingle.” See PLAN, page 2 by Nathan Boddy.in the Lottermoser, one of the owners. Her werePhoto previous participants County Commissioners apwork is grounded formercowboys, gallery, but the business plana by John Dowd in the Sheridan-style barns, famous artists with On March 9th, members ofLast the week the Ravalli This school year, the Stevensville proved adoption of a memorandum of understandof tooling which features variations on has changed since Lottermoser and Montana flavor and more. This year Stevensville FFA completed their FFA fielded teams in twelve contests by ofpartment the franchise, many should not noand the south portions of the valley, Exit Realty team will continue workbyJohn JohnDowd Dowd of Criminal Investigations ing withthe the Ravalli County DUI as Task Force Western floral patterns. addition Smith A Hamilton business,Inthat hails the theme isover pre-statehood, or preparticipation in the last of fourteen requiring qualification to advance tice thetook change atthe all,space. andinvestigation. itWhile may lead separated at Victor Crossing. After ing and marketing one. “Weand didn’t (DCI) will be doing the Protection Agency. The letter the commissioners stated National Forest 1987 Forest aspen and whitebark pine; MAPS Media Institute to produce a video designed to her leatherwork, Karen is also an RIver’s Mist was an art co-op, the from Texas, has been working to en1889, and the contest is still looking agricultural and leadership competito the state level and secured invitaby Since Michael Howell January 2, Exit1st, Realty in the some positive growth in the future. want to change a whole bunch right On Monday, April around 4:30 toAccording to Hamilton Police Depart- sale, the south portion was purchased to help parents keep tabs on their children’s behavaccomplished woodworker, creating that “Ravalli County objects contains recommendations Plan. manage timber to provide courage a love of art in young people for participants. Participants must tions in their yearlong effort to qualify tions to compete at state in all twelve Bitterroot has gone through some big LastChief year, of thePolice, previous Exit Realty by Kathy Butts, and the north by out of the gate,” said Lendman. p.m. Hamilton Police officers were ment Snavely, See Steve ART, page 6 ior. impacts aininvolved variety of pieces furniture to by the valley. To dofrom this, they have be high students, 9th to 12th the and next level competition at the toevents. by Michael Howell 1.5% fromschool the previous startment withand afor stipend included SEIS for A new record of decision forest products jobs; toof unmitigated changes, but many in the valley may franchise owners, Tina and Max ColeLendman. Whenconcerning asked howthe thisDraft change will in a shooting with a robbery there will be a coroner’s inquest The deadline closed on byVictoria Victoria Howell if it would be possible The DUI Task Force approved creation of jewelry boxes. She prides herself that created a at county-wide contest, showgrades. 95th State FFA Convention inhas Billings district championships by Howell year, the2023-24 facility took inthe just under ing salary of $37,326 and alsothe inwhen it wasstatus included in thethe The sign for Jake’s Studio, on Steby John Dowd roy, president of the Montana Rocknot be aware of how these changman, decided to sell off franchise Even though franchise split affect buyers and sellers in the valley, suspect the Riverside Conoco Conwhere DCI will present their findings. the Gold Butterfly. Concerncounty owned/maintained was issued on December 17, retain old growth in all toart, put envelopes on one-time January 18,participant’s for filing objecbyher Victoria his property which wouldschools in effect with the highway, which is aastate addressed when the private land was Mischief$240,000 Room May and commissioners all work isHowell done her own twotook casing the love of and Florence inthe April. for Stevensville include: The Corvallis School District cludes aCorvallis $610 payment. tentative signed by and spent every penny. venville’s main beckons visitors ies last Bluegrass Association, there will a es might affect them. rights that pertained to the Bitterroot in valley, Realty is still the to Lendman said that itand will not change venience Store. ThebyFortunately, engagement Snavely stated that an inquest is also roads heavy theowner scope ofthe the analysis 2021 accompanied by most a drag, Draft treatment units.agreement According to Exit all the doors and then Dominic Farrenshut off access to Stevensville River highway, because nowfrom you’re goingequipment sold toproject aing new Fish, Wildlife signed off on it. The involved creation of tions to the Draft Supplemenhands, using no lasers or CNC maand the Bitterroot’s love of the state. have been the active, though all Over 200 students in StevensAgronomy led by Sidney Mcapproved a contract with the At issue in the negotiations was both parties. Also at issue was Jasmin Shinn, founder and There are no paid employees; it’s an allThe annual Montana Rockies be no break from the music, and, “No according to Kim Lendman, now the Valley. When they sold it, the fransame company. Additionally, accordin. Photo by John Dowd. place after the suspect threatened and standard procedure in these types of put valentine cards in kopf, activities director The Stevensville Town CounPark, a 20-acre park on the east bank have two accesses for trucks pulling and Parks got involved. The once-prithe letter quotes the BitterSEIS that provides a site-spea Forest Service press release and logging trucks, mostly, a set of easily accessible items that had secret hiding ATRowner Smart Procedures a softschools ininvolved the are welcome to agricultural education programvolunteer Casland, 1st get place individual tal Environmental Statement Corvallis teachers union onis Dewhether orwas not the valley pay would besituations. whether theville’s District violated the Bluegrass Association (MRBA) set-up.organization. Just up there and with play.” current of the valley half chise split between the north to Lendman, the whole Bitterroot But said 12 executive director ofnorth 1 Horse reportedly charged at the responding officer shooting See EXIT, page atwas Sapphire Lutheran them. Farrenkopf cil split on whether to accept just toreally the north of the private piece oftheiting boats, and you’ve just come out of the vate piece now belongs toShinn theKyra state compartments where someone could stash some root Forest Plan’s Forest-wide but not limited to, the impacts cific forest plan amendment about 90% of proposed ware design company, now based in participate. Some of the schools even learn about a wide range of agriculteam members Quinn Rahl, Descember 10 following an extended an increase in the Matrix Stipend law when removed the stipend (Draft SEIS) for the Gold Bluegrass Festival is returning to For some of these bands, this will officer. “We have seen tremendous supAtsmall A Time Draft Horse Rescue it costs about $200 per month to feed Homes in Hamilton, is liked the idea. He asked a piece of park land near the property. Crews contacted the county Stevi Wye at 45 miles per hour there and is a developed fishing access site. drugs or hide a small flask of whiskey. The aim was Hamilton. However, after moving to include the contest in their curricutural careers and practices during the Jarlais, and Teigen Hackett. to Willow Creek Road. Due to Wildlife Re-that defining old-growth stanwithin an period ofinofficers negotiations that began or simply come the form appreciate of atreatment unilaterally and then approved Victor. On Saturday, April 13, the be“gentle theirManagement time, and for others The attempted to provide port, andin we greatly allareas are Butterfly Project, a Bitterroot facility Corvallis, got a nice these giants.” there are asking the community students at schools Stevensville bridge, an item that wasone-time and negotiated the donation ofthe the are going to be accidents there.” “But Ifirst think it’sThen [the piece the to provide a learning opportunity toon see the Montana, the organization owners lum. school day the dedicated and parents Ag Mechanics led by Selwyn Hacklast spring. The teachers continpayment. Ato Matrix Sticontract without it.under Neely Center will again be hosting do this professionally, the event is the source Objective to “Maintain dards. Some objections the area designated for insect and resource and financial limitalife-saving measures to the suspect, that support,” said Snavely. He was veterinary bills, therapy, training, and boost last week when she was to send his residents a and daycares to make National Forest project that considered at the March 24th council land on the west, securing potential Mayor Steve Gibson said he didn’t west] still a viable piece of land for various ways in which any young person can hide and team have fallen loveby with thepend isespecially According tolopes. the orga-a time engaging instruction ofmusic ag teachers ett, 1st place individual with team ued working without aincontract based onreceived steps and lanes Hearingsbecause Officer Jeffrey Doud Last year the envethe music. This spring festival“Iother always asufficient treat. Conroy highlighted who was then transported ambuproud ofcontest this during old-growth habitat disease treatment of tions, Ravalli County would new decision were little love this special envelopes associated costs to rehabilitate presented with aValencheck forof$7500 meeting. The land ownership will now river and access pending the outcome of a recommendation see what use thethat land is to the town. city tofrom have, whether or not you put their substance use casual inspections. includes nearly 13,000 acres state and the people. One the ways nizers, last year there were over 210 Josette Hackett andfeature Trevor Motley. members Noah Tan, Erik Potter, and following expiration of the and longevity that benefits senior issued lopes were so full they The project is now and fundraiser will 18 bands one newer band by the interesting lance to the hospital. He expired there in American history that he believes is tine’s Day. decorate them for each revert to the county. The 1.52-acre the access dispute. only see a liability,” said Gibson. money into developing it,” said Motnot be able to accommodate on suitable timberland to by the January 18 deadline dense pockets of dead and dythese horses. When they’re fi nally ready from representatives of JCCS, an Glenda Wiles, Director of the DUI Task Force, of commercial and non-comthey have been showing that love has entries, and this year there could be Students then have the option to put Matthew Walker. 2023-2024 contract lastwas June but teachers who the havelowest been the Board offrom Personnel Appeals to be more reallyworking popular, and allemptied over the area, and beyond. name of “Release the Squirrels.” Even fromAbout his wounds and pronounced seeing support law en- had four years resident. people piece, which located adjacent tomostly the Then Council member Marilyn Wolff Michaelson said he up the for ley. “There are many cars out said what sheadoption, tellsConduct parents is,so “If you don’t look, accounting fiis rm with branch most can be driven or there, the necessary support viable populations having to do with the ingfor trees. They claim the areacommitted been through their artacontest. The even more, full participation their knowledge to thelooked testfree, asmaintenance FFA of Chapter Meeting: team did put public pressure on thecould in the District forwith years and rolls determine the District mercial vegetative treatment than once. growing every year. These bands will play for and a Conroy, and his wife, Tari, will get up dead. forcement ever. He added, “Hamilton by Kristin Kruse utive Director Jaqueline Stevens. The ago, a resident came drop off valenBitterroot River on the northwest side from said she had apotenreal problem with old minutes andduring found that thesancland Imembers think can be used for parking. But then younor don’t see. If it you don’t see, then you don’t ridden, and some just become “pasture located indisplaying Hamilton. Part of contest the logging idea came from a similar art all the high schools in the valley. members through nationally Zane Deering, Teigen Hackof old-growth dependent is impacted by mountain pine the project, the of old growth, board by signs outside over into the next year while the an unfair labor practice and pay new one will take the stage every half and play, along with their friend Tim within a 55,000 acre areaSheriff’s ofto the The Ravalli County Office isenveapiece great place be awhere police officer.” center opened itsto doors in 2020 after tines to fill the to Farrenkopf to see of the bridge, was offered Town this of land. “It’s two was donated on the condition that looking long term, if you have propSee VALENTINES, page 10 That developpets.” selection for awarding that See DUI, page 10 they held in Houston, Texas right af-one-time These also include Trapper Creek Job tioned career and leadership ett, Kealie Hixson, Margaret Kuntz, the school before classes andgift payments do not. every qualifying member by John Down first to be created in the last “Itheads really opened theCFG in 2020. first was to the drawing board. beetle, Douglas-fir bark beetle, rehabilitation of thelevy road after species. ” side The letter notes that tial to wildlife and tobank hour. Ezzell bass. Michael Howell and Hamilton Police Department In all his 26 years with departTucked away on Fort Owen Ranch Yahraus and Stevens put their forest inevents the Sapphire Mounin 2017 by Ravalli County for use as aimpacts roads converge, the is the incrediitment would be maintained andby utilized erty onon the west ofestablished the river,and then was online voting and according 1 Horse At A Time was ter the of September 11, 2001. Corps and many homeschoolers. “I events and contests. Adelaide Meyer, Cierra Palmer, entering building asthat a group. The previous contract forthere Matrix Stipend. No Notice of 50 years. To doRoad. this, theynoted will door tothe some interesting permanent and for $9.5According One the problems, acOne band that to asked return toof Conroy, the the festival’s issued athe press release detailed ment, Snavely have only thecontinues project is complete. Ravalli the Draft SEIS limits scope Willow Creek dwarf mistletoe and just toeast the north of Fort Owen State together to decide what was needed potential river access site. bly steep… I think there are liability for western recreational purposes within five you have access to potentially consoltains of Corvallis. ATR wanted to find aattry way to was astonished, last year, toofhave that To Johnny contend at the state level, Tasia Rohbock. by Shinn in 2018. She’s originally from tothe JCCS branch manager, Andrea They also spoke openly school theto2023-2024 school year wasconversations Exception was filed againstCampbell the “Hopefully, the third need ask the community with people,” million, which Butler said cording to Butler, was, “we asis the Band, visiting purpose is “to promote and encourU.S. Critical Materials, the Salt Lake City based event and investigation. However, been three of these types shootings. Park is the Summit Career Center, a or not needed in the community. They of itsphone environmental consespruce budwormyears. damage. County objects to shifting Bitterroot National Forest During the tenure of former issues… It is the fastest part of the idate highway property into the Town The original proposal was The next recycling event in button, cell batteries (out of feature theorganization beauty of the participation,” said Lander. students must compete and rank FFA Creed Speaking: Teigen board meetings in support of aandto contested following approval of recommendations by theglass School is the charm,” amuch levy, which BVCC said speaking about was exorbitant andin occurred sumed people knew what the Simmerman, 1commented Horse Aavailable Time Germany where she grew up around from Nashville. They be joined by age old-time bluegrass music.” The company that is proposing to mine Rare Earth very little information isstate at However, these are always aButter, danger nonprofit that offers a pass came up with the concept of Although career mayor Jim Crews, the At owner ofand land channel and the deepest part of the of Vickie Motley, parkwill board memof Stevensville. Ianalysis think It’s something in general financial burden of the project quences to vegetation, officials have stated that the the Bitterroot is March 9th, 2024, the phone). This is last minute info so to give back to the community, “We never know what to expect,” the top half, or above at the district Hackett withdrawn in August of 2020 wage hike, arguing that many a contract that did not include Board and the District and every Bitterroot Valley Community has tried to do twice before their recent “Ask and Listen” because the trustees were Bitterroot Valley Community horses. She’s always been a horse fan, was one of the top four vote bands from all over the valley, MisMRBA has 300 members, and they Elements in the headwaters of the West Fork of this time. the job, but he added that fortunately, free career training program side targetcenter, which is were modeled after a that highly ber, said that nothing had been done at the river ononce the northeast had channel. Ifto you toart develop RDO Equipment Co. to Ravalli County and believe the pileated woodpecker and project is designed improve agreement with the proposed from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the north if you don’t have batteries to recycle thought their successful art said Hafer, saying that entries level to advance. The Western FFA Prepared Public Speaking: Colton teachers must work two jobs toleave Stipend. qualifying member received College (BVCC) trustee and without success. campaign, whichCFG helped the unsure ofThe exactly how theshe College was.” there soula, Idaho and more. event is abut all share the same love of bluegrass. after Friends of the Bitterroot is especially passionate about getters. the Bitterroot River, announced in aHowever, December 4, 16 The officer is currently on neither the officer, norin any comed towards highly motivated people successful organization Denver, attempted to shut off river access ona Matrix for fishing, IImmediately would also see aother problem because the access problem had been See STEVI, page end of the Ravalli Fairnow you canRunning save up to bring them contest was the way toShe go. According come in“Crosspurpose.” all forms. District in Montana consists of current twelve Harris 8571 W. Road get by that higher pay would following the approval thatItorganization Matrix Stipend for 2023secretary, Sue Smith. was Theresilience vote will take placeof were to speak with the process worked. They were seems toOne have been a major pine marten. project, the Ravalli County it isCounty contrary to law forest to natural single-microphone type event, with adraft When asked why he loves bluegrass, 2024 press release that Phase of the company’s during this investigation, as iswake stanmunity members, harmed during That check followed inRavalli the horses. She and her husband, a to ages 18and and older in Wild both and called offerstheir similar and Alliance for the grounds. TheAccording is the the same, $1 per next glass recycling day on June to organizers Elliott Lander, managThis will the ninth year they schools west ofprice the Continental Divide Greenhand: Adelaide Meyer help inprotocol. recruiting and retaining contract, the Corvallis Faculty 2024. speaking about the May 7, via a mail-in ballot. public on the topic of creating under that theStar misunderstanding about the 4 single stage. toimpression Mike ConCooperative Research and Development Agreement “We realize these old growth Commissioners expressed and existing agreements. ” the disturbances like fire,beinsects Missoula, MT 59808 The Montana Dethe exchange. Missoula Counties. In addition toon services, according to Stevens. military retiree, and their two children ofdard a $25,000 gift inorganizaNovember See BLUEGRASS, page Rockies filed suit claiming the gallon. Jars and bottles that con8th. ing director of ATR, and art contest have held the contest, and each year with an ag education program/FFA Additional state qualifying events good teachers in the district Group filed a complaint with the The recently approved contion’s upcoming attempt to According to trustee chair the college. public desired an independent nature of the community (CRADA) with Idaho National Laboratory (INL) has free training, Summit offers six-month offered officials also received species are listed in and disease;The reduce sedi- program concern over impacts to drinks orForest fromcareer Tractor Supply. relocated toindicator Montana and bought a 20406-549-4171 agency failed to the best tained food be recycled Cardboard recycling will be leadthe coordinator, Tamar Hafer, ATR donates thousands in phases. prizes. Schools of allmay classifications forThis the Stevensville FFA: because salaries were not comBoard of Personnel Appeals. A tract forthose thechapter. 2024-2025 school ask public foruse help with a the Carrie Guarino, “We listened Following meetings, community college, as it was college. According to also Butler, been completed. phase involved studying, testmentoring, support and friendship to is broken down into three acre farm which Shinn said can support That sounds like a lot of comments from Philip Strobel the Forest Plan, but it is not county owned and maintained ment sources in the Willow forthis a (second fee. Any color, and labels can available for2nd apeople fee. available science in managing reception hasother been incredible. This year, they will be away compete in FFA includAgthe Sales place team critical led Presenting a stated check for $7500 from JCCS to Shinn from left) 1 Horse At by petitive with theandcontested case hearing was held year that thetogether 1.5% rare opportunity todistricts create a indoors. wanted to hold true.” She thephase trustees saidincludes that voted inofpreviously a high many it tobybe ing, and confirming gallium andbelieve other whoever walks through their Stevens that thegiving first isJasmin RDOequipment.com about 20Sponsored horses. She currently money but, according to Shinn, clear whether there are roads, especially Willow Creek Director ofminerals the NEPA Branch Creek watershed; improve stay on, but please remove lids. by the non-profits When speaking about the contest around $4,700 in prizes. This ining the AA schools in Missoula and Kayton French, 3rd place individual valley. in January of 2024 to determine increase in the Matrix Stipend community college in the Bitand others with BVCC have levy will be different. The margin. After being created, associated with the outreach A Time Draft Horse Rescue were, l to r: Levi Clark, CPA, Andrea Simmerman, JCCS Branch elk habitat and didn’t comcontent at the U.S. Critical Materialsother Sheep This program isdraft the brainchild of called “personal development,” which taking care of horses is Beginning March 9th, batteries Ravalli County Recycling (RCR) and in the Bitterroot, Lander said, “All of cludes prizes to the schools of the Kalispell. In addition to Stevensville, with team members Jones, Office of the Regional bullifoftrout habitat; restore Road. The approved contract willowner theto District had violated the as well a one-time payment of terroot. According to trustee worked alter the levy to testing time theyas to the the district was toAdminlevy program run Kamryn by the UniversiManager, and Will Ramsey, CPA.first Also pictured iswent Tiny, the non-profi t’s mascot and theable Creek Deposit. ply with the definition of old power duo Myla Yahraus, the involves aptitude to idenan expensive proposition. Last will also be accepted for recycle. $2 Recycling Works MT. See RESCUE, page them have had some sort of Montana winners, which take the form of grant four of the twelve chapters are in the Teigen Hackett, and Charlie Leonard. raise thefound base aand newly when itchance refused to •FREE execute will applied retroactiveSee GOLD, page vice chair, Jean Butler, it its best to byESTIMATES public, they did so after being for community funds. After tystates of Montana. The reality INTime. THE BITTERROOT VALLEY• Ypay OUR Hfor OME Ithis MPROVEMENT Cof Olaw .COM istrator of the Environmental habitat including meadows, In a$610 letter to be the Forest “Simultaneously,” it in the release, “INLis 65 first horse that wasand rescued 1 Horse At A Photo by Victoria Howell. the Fort Owen Ranch foundergive tify what each individual’s specific growth in the Bitterroot per pound. Thebeing following will be acFor more information refer to the theme to them.” Some previous years Bitterroot Valley; Florence, Victor, hired teacher with no experience the Collective Bargaining Agreely. would be only the fourth of address the concerns of the approved for the creation of significantly voted down the center, and co-founder and ExecPaidthe fortrustees by Brad Davis, Box 462 Victor, Montana 59828 See FFA, page page 21 ART, page See EMBARGO, page14 4 SeeSee SUMMIT, page4 4college cepted: alkaline, lithium-ion, Ni-Cad, website: ravallirecycling.org See BVCC, have included themes such and Corvallis. its kind in the state, and theas oldpublic. a community district twice, wentP.O. back
Chapter One awarded, celebrating 50 years
Public Longtime Hamilton clerkrecognized retires Scammers thwarted,city vigilance County budget meeting on track on BNF RCFW aids future conservationists Surviving COVID Cowboy Ball Climbing Plan
Halfway through fiscal year, county budget looking good
scheduled
Browe one year later Hearts full love Stevi toofrevisit refinancing bonds
Local Chamber of Commerce holds annual business meeting
Assistance makes difference for local veteran New studio opens its doors inDUI Stevensville Task Force, MAPS to partner on Art contest seeks Stevi FFA chapter Hamilton officers special video more participation
sweeps district North valley Exit Realty has a new face Corvallis School District China embargo fire on suspect Bluegrass Festival Gold Butterfly project draws some objections teacher contract approved Spreading love interest Local draft horse rescue thriving Stevi to return park land to county set forspurs Saturday
in Montana as Summit Career Center offers source for Rare Glass recycling more than career guidance BVCC gives it one moreEarth college try Elements
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