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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!”
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Volume XXXV, Number 26
FWP Commission says no to hovercraft on river
Dog Days of Winter
By Michael Howell
The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Commission denied a request from Stevensville resident Jim Crews to exclude hovercraft from the definition of a vessel and exempt hovercraft from the 20 mph limit on motorized craft on the Clark Fork and Bitterroot Rivers. The commission received the petition in October of 2019 and dismissed it at a meeting held on January 6, in Helena. The state Department of
The annual Darby Dog Derby, hosted by the Bitterroot Mushers, is scheduled for January 18th and 19th at Gibbons Pass. Details can be found at bitterrootmushers.org.
Skijoring, sledding in the ‘Root By Jeanette Hunter
Winter sunrise takes a while to crawl down into icy Gibbons Pass, but the rising cacophony will assure you you’ve come to the right place. 2020 marks the thirteenth year for the Darby Dog Derby (DDD), hosted by the Bitterroot Mushers. Whatever the weather, it’s a magnificent backdrop for the 2-day gathering. In 2019, it started at a balmy 27 degrees and 50 shades of grey: saged, browned, heathered, and whitened, from the sky to the pines swaying with the wind’s symphony. From as far away as Oregon and Canada, teams travel to participate in this event each January, competing in 2- to 8-dog sled races and the slightly eclectic sport of skijoring, which requires a dog or two in harness streaking down the trail while attached to a person strapped into cross country skis. You might ask yourself who’d be crazy enough to try this, but try – and succeed! – they do, and somewhere
deep in your skull you may find yourself thinking maybe you, too, could release your own inner child in such a manner. Actual kids can also participate in the festivities, due to the generosity of so many of these mushers. The pee-wee race gives 4- to 10-year-olds the opportunity to experience dog sledding, even if their families don’t own a sled and team. Participation is limited, helmets are required, and entry requests are available online prior to The Derby. The camaraderie between humans and dogs and even among competing teams is strongly evident as enthusiastic dogs are placed in the rigging then led to the starting lines, sometimes with nearly as many handlers as dogs to prevent a premature start to the race. Bright-colored booties commonly cover paws, the human team members frequently take time to stroke or talk to their canine companions, and teams occasionally return with an injured or tired pup carefully packed on the sled. Energy and trust abound
at these events. One would expect to find huskies and malamutes, but the number of rangy, short-haired dogs may surprise you. Their athleticism is highly-valued, and muscular frames tend to generate substantial heat. Additionally, hollow hair is a trait of many of these chosen slender breeds, lending some pretty remarkable insulative qualities, and pups that tend to cool down quickly are carefully blanketed as needed. Stories abound, occasionally with Iditarod roots. Tawny little Patia often joins in this Montana melee, her mother a canine member of the 2011 winning team in that famous Alaskan race. Quite a few of the dogs are actually adopted from shelters or when other mushers retire. One of the 2017 skijor runners previously belonged to a racer who tragically died in a car accident, and the sledding community rallied to find homes for all his dogs. Teams from across See SLEDDING, page 8
Stevensville council elects Michalson as president By Michael Howell
Newly elected Stevensville Town Council member Bob Michalson was selected to serve as Council President at the January 9 Town Council meeting. Michalson served previously on the council and as president before resigning because of what he claimed were on-going illegal activities by Mayor Brandon Dewey. None of the legal complaints lodged with the Town Attorney, the Commissioner of Political Practices and the County Attorney’s office were deemed valid by any of the officials. He did not withdraw his can-
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Bob Michalson didacy for the position, however, and won his seat back in the last election.
In the discussion preceding the vote for the position of Council President last week, Councilor Jaime Devlin, who is new to the council, raised the issue of Michalson’s past actions and behavior. “In the past, there has been conflict between Mr. Michalson and the administration,” she said, “so I am curious as to what policies, procedures, and regulations have been put in place so we are not going to have that happen.” Michalson responded, saying, “It’s a new year. I took See STEVI, page 2
Fish, Wildlife and Parks recommended denial of the petition, arguing that to provide an exception for one watercraft would be contrary to the statutory definition and would encourage other similarly situated to do the same. “In 2011, the department undertook an extensive river recreation planning process that included heavy public involvement. The conclusion of this process resulted in the current regulations on the Clark Fork, its tributaries and the Bitterroot.
These regulations have extensive public support in Region 2. These regulations are no more restrictive towards hovercraft than they are any other vessel rated at over 20 horsepower. Providing an exception for one would encourage others,” the agency stated. Although not officially taking public comment on the petition, the commission received about 70 comments from the public. All but two were opposed to changing the rules.
never reached any agreement yet with the county as a bargaining unit. Three of the attorneys filing suit, Daniel Browder, Thorin Geist and William Lower were founding members of the Ravalli Deputy County Attorney Association (RDCAA), formed by six members of the county attorney staff back in 2018. Plaintiff Korin Ziegler was also a member but recently left her job with the county in November to take a better paying job in Park County. All but Ziegler were founding
members of the group that sought voluntary recognition as a collective bargaining unit from the Board of County Commissioners in 2018. According to the allegations contained in the complaint, the commissioners denied the request “even though it is the policy of the state of Montana to encourage the practice and procedure of collective bargaining between public employers and their employees.” The RDCAA then sought
County attorneys file suit against county over wages By Michael Howell
Four Ravalli County Deputy Attorneys have filed a suit in District Court against Ravalli County over unpaid wages. The attorneys allege that their Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) payments have been withheld illegally. They argue that they should have been receiving the same COLA increase as every other county employee who is not bound under a collective bargaining agreement because they have
See ATTORNEYS, page 8
Grantsdale Addition subdivision extension request denied
By Michael Howell
The Ravalli County Commissioners denied the request for an extension of the Preliminary Plat Approval granted to the Granstdale Addition major subdivision in 2011. One of the largest subdivisions ever approved by the county, the Grantsdale Addition proposed the creation of 181 lots on 67 acres at the intersection of
Skalkaho Road and Grantsdale Cut-Off. Denial of the extension request means that the subdivision’s preliminary approval has now expired and that in order to move forward a new subdivision application would be required. Under the original proposal as it was preliminarily approved, the subdivision was only subject to the subdivision regulations at the time and cannot be subjected to
new regulations, such as the new provisions concerning phased subdivisions that were recently adopted. Any new submittal would have to be reviewed under the new regulations. Following the approval of the preliminary plat in 2011, the developer sought and was granted an extension of the timeSee SUBDIVISION, page 9
County Commissioner Chris Hoffman not seeking reelection By Michael Howell
Ravalli County Commissioner Chris Hoffman announced last week that he does not intend to seek reelection in 2020. He said that, while it is not without some regret that he has decided not to seek a third term, it is the right time to begin the next chapter for himself and his family. Hoffman cited the great work being done by the current board. “While we are a diverse group, we are united in our dedication to serve our community,” Hoffman said. “The board is very stable and is focused on issues that are important for the valley’s future.” With one year left in his term, Hoffman, who
Commissioner Chris Hoffman is serving as board chair this year, is excited about the work yet to be done and the agenda that the cur-
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rent board has set for the year. Hoffman, who started his public safety career in Nashville, Tennessee, in 1984, moved back home to Corvallis in 1989 and was hired by Ravalli County Sheriff Jay Printz. He also served with the Hamilton Police Department for 10 years before being elected Sheriff in 2002. After 14 years as Sheriff, he ran for county commissioner, and at the end of this term will have served two two-year terms in that position. Hoffman said that he feels blessed to have served the Bitterroot Valley for the past thirtyplus years. “It is very humbling
See HOFFMAN, page 2
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Stevi
continued six months off. If Mayor Dewey is open to discussion like he says and has an open office, I’m willing to come in. There’s a lot of things that we have to get done.” “Your willingness is great,” said Devlin, “and I appreciate that you are willing to step up to the plate and that you want to do that. Thank you, it’s a big job. I just have some concerns. I know in the past that you two have had meetings that just haven’t gone well. So just what exactly are we going to do to make sure that we are moving forward positively together?” “I know you took six months off, and it’s not just on your plate or just directed at you, but something has to change so that we don’t end up in the same place that we came from,” said Devlin. “I agree,” said Michalson. “So that’s what I’m asking, what has changed?” asked Devlin. Michalson said, “I’ll stick to my job as much as I can, running by the rules that I see fit. I will not step across the line to tell him how to do his job and he knows that.” He said that he does not come to the town’s office much and doesn’t plan on hanging out there a lot. “If there is a time frame involved and he has to set up appointments for me I can work with that, and we can go forward from there,” said Michalson. “It’s going to be baby steps for a while. Brandon and I do have history. I’m not going to deny that.” “That’s my concern,” said Devlin. Mayor Dewey noted in response to Devlin’s original question about changes in policy or rules, that a Code of Conduct had been adopted, although not rigidly enforced, and is used by the office staff to help analyze their own conduct and how they interact with each other. He said those kinds of reminders could be employed in discussions by the council as well. In the public comment portion of the meeting, Joe Moore
spoke against the selection of Michalson for council president, saying it was not personal, but there was a past history to be considered “not just with the mayor but with other community members as well.” “We have a past history that has not been resolved,” Moore said, “and I don’t know if I want to go through another year thinking about it.” Carolyn Mickens stood up for Michalson, saying he did a lot of research when he was on the council and won the election. “If the town’s people believed that he wasn’t doing a necessary job, they wouldn’t have voted him into the seat. So, I think that we ought to give him a chance at the seat of President instead of making remarks,” said Mickens. The council approved Michalson as Council President by a 3 to 1 vote, with Devlin casting the dissenting vote. New board appointments included: Planning and Zoning Board – Bob Michalson Park Board – Jaime Devlin TIFID/TEDD Board – Robin Holcomb Airport Board – Dempsey Vick Katie Coleman-Assad was confirmed as Airport Manager. In other business, the council unanimously approved an ordinance on first reading to update the town’s building and technical codes. According to Mayor Dewey, the State of Montana has adopted several updated building codes with amendments in 2018 and by law, local municipalities are given 90 days to formally adopt updated codes that are adopted by the State for effective implementation and enforcement. The council split over the issue of closing Town Hall on every 5th Friday of the month (approximately four times a year), to allow the full staff to attend training and catch up on office work without interruptions. One argument in favor of the closure was to save over-time pay for the training sessions. One argument against it was the inconvenience
to the public. After some discussion, the original motion was amended to be a one-time closure to see how it worked and then reevaluate. Michalson and Holcomb voted against the one-time closure and Devlin and Vick voted in favor. Mayor Dewey broke the tie in favor of trying the experimental closure. The council voted unanimously to place the issue of amending the Council Rules on the agenda for a meeting of the Committee of the Whole scheduled for January 30 at 6 p.m. at Town Hall. The council unanimously approved the purchase of a new backhoe for $82,585. The town’s current backhoe will be exchanged for $24,000 credit, leaving an outstanding balance for the new backhoe at $58,585.
Hoffman continued
to have had the support and trust of this community, particularly being allowed to serve both as sheriff and as a member of the board of county commissioners, and I will forever be grateful to my neighbors for the incredibly rewarding career that I’ve enjoyed here.” “Serving as an elected official for 18 years is probably enough for anybody,” said Hoffman. He said he is looking forward to exploring other potential opportunities the future might hold. He also endorsed Dan Huls, who has filed to run for Hoffman’s seat on the board. He called Huls “a good replacement.” He said Huls was a fair, well-rounded person who could get along with anyone with a track record for being able to bridge differences.
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 3
Bitterroot Stockgrowers honor Thorson family legacy
By Jean Schurman
There probably isn’t a ranch in the Bitterroot Valley that doesn’t have a squeeze chute in their corral system. Most were painted bright red. Built to handle cattle in an efficient and humane manner while doctoring, branding, pregnancy testing or artificially inseminating cattle, these red squeeze chutes could, and can, be found on almost every ranch here and throughout Western Montana and the West. The legacy of that chute, and A.E. Thorson, the inventor and manufacturer of that chute, was honored by The Bitterroot Stockgrowers on Saturday at their annual banquet. Robert “Bob” Thorson and his brother Don are A.E.’s sons. The three of them took these creations and marketed them, expanded upon them, and built the company. These various tools and implements came about as a means to make working, moving and hauling cattle easier, as well as improving life on a farm or ranch. A.E. spent a lot of time in the mid 1940s working and hauling cattle.There were no stock trailers then; instead cattle were hauled in the back of pickup trucks and trucks with wooden
racks on them. The means used to work cattle were simple at best and hard to work with. A.E. began making prototypes of the chute during this time. The first one was built around 1947. The family had lived in the Bitterroot before on a place up the West Fork on Piquet Creek and then in Arlee and then they went back to Wise River. Through it all, A.E. was figuring out the best way to make working with cattle easier. When they moved back to the Bitterroot in the late ‘40s, it was for good. The family lived west of Victor and then in the Corvallis area. They built a shop on Quast Lane and began manufacturing the chutes that the senior Thorson had designed. It was here that they expanded and began building not only squeeze chutes but also calf tables and a few other items. When they weren’t building, they were sharpening sickles for hay mowers or building or modifying sprinkler pipe trailers. They began building pickup racks that were one piece and would slide into place quite easily. In 1971, they moved to a location just north of the ’S’ curves on Eastside Highway north of Corvallis. While some their first efforts were done in buildings with
no electricity and they used gas welding equipment, this building was modern and well made. Bob Thorson, who had always had an interest in wiring and electricity, wired the Industrial building and proudly stated, “The building passed the inspection.” During this time, until the company closed in 2006, they pursued many avenues of marketing and expansion. Farmers and ranchers were replacing pickup racks with stock trailers, and replacing sickle mowers with swathers with sickle bars that were difficult to sharpen, and so the company looked for other opportunities to market their goods. They worked with Quality Supply and had their chutes and equipment in those stores around the state. Prior to that, the bright red equipment was seen in the John Deere dealers, Davies Farm Supply, in Kalispell and Missoula. They built chutes to handle bison in Yellowstone and up at the Bison Range in Moise. When the administration at Yellowstone saw how well the chutes worked for the bison, they ordered chutes for the elk and moose, too. These chutes also found their way to various veterinary schools around the country. Some pieces of the equip-
The Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton is gathering petition signatures to place an additional three-mill levy on the June ballot. The request comes as the library seeks funding to support its operating expenses and allow it to continue serving a growing population in the Bitterroot Valley. “The library board and I have not taken the idea of asking for additional funding from taxpayers lightly, as we know that any additional tax is a burden for property owners,” said Wetherington. “We are proud that we have not asked for an increase in over 20 years. We discussed our options and looked at other solutions for years before deciding that this was the most responsible course of action for the library.” The library is funded at 8.9 mills for the current fiscal year. The proposed mill levy will translate into a tax increase of $4.05 per $100,000 of property valuation. The increase will impact property owners in the library’s funding district which includes the school districts of Victor, Corvallis and Hamilton. If approved, the mill levy would provide the library an additional $143,900 per year. “Hamilton and the surrounding areas have grown significantly over the last 20 years and so has the use of the library,” said Mark Wetherington, Library Director. “To keep up with increased demand we’ve added staff, doubled the number of computers available to the public, and expanded our budget for books,
DVDs and other materials.” “There’s also been the challenge of keeping up with the maintenance of a facility that was built in 1916,” Wetherington continued. “Several large donations over the last decade allowed us to pay for ongoing expenses and new services, like e-books, but we are drawing those donations down and estimate that they’ll run out by 2022.” The library expanded its operating hours in 2018 to open earlier and stay open later on more days based on patron feedback. In recent years the library has invested in improvements to the accessibility and efficiency of the building, including a roof over the access ramp, automatic doors at ramp entrances, and LED lighting which has decreased electricity costs by 20%. The library needs to replace its roof in 2020 which is estimated to cost over $50,000. In addition to books, DVDs, and other materials the library provides assistance with job applications and searches, wireless internet access 24 hours a day, weekly free programs for children, families, and adults, as well as a large community room with wireless internet and a media center that the public can reserve. It also provides access to materials at other Montana libraries through membership in the Montana Shared Catalog, free tax forms and exam proctoring. Nansu Roddy, Public Services Librarian for the past 34 years, believes providing the public with access to technology has been an important contribu-
tion of the library. Ten public computers, a scanner, printer, and copy machine are available at the library and are well-used by the public. Access to the internet is also provided free of charge at the library. Public Services special programming has included numerous cooking demonstrations from local chefs, Christmas craft classes, film festivals, and beer brewing classes. Ongoing adult programming includes a writer’s club, Socrates Café, monthly book club, and a coloring club. All of these programs are open to the public. “The public library is the community space where people come together to learn and connect,” Wendy Campbell, Youth Services Librarian, said. “Libraries provide common ground for all community members including children. A parent told me that the programs for young children were especially important for their family because she said ‘it helps my children develop by learning to follow directions and play with other children. [It also] gets me out of the house and around other adults with kids.’” Youth services programming offered by the library include weekly story times, special Family Events, afterschool programs, a teen writing club, early literacy focused programs, monthly music and movement classes, and school field trips. “With a successful mill levy, we would be able to better plan for the future and expand on what we already do that people value,” said Wetherington. “Without sustain-
Bob Thorson holds the prototype of the squeeze chute that was sent to the U.S. Patent Office for his family’s company, A.E. Thorson and Sons. Jean Schurman photo. ment manufactured were patented and Bob still has the tiny mockups. He said they didn’t do a lot of patents because it was costly and people could easily change just one part of the equipment and not
violate the patent. Don retired from the company in 1999. Bob, along with his son Chris, ran the business until 2006. Bob said they survived the fluctuating cattle market and the
The Lone Rock School District Board seeks voter input on priorities for a proposed General Fund operations levy this spring. A Fact Sheet and Survey was mailed to Lone Rock District voters this week, with information about projects identified by the Board, seeking voter input. Completed survey forms need to be returned in the stamped return envelope via U.S postal service, no later than Friday, January 24. The levy is proposed to be tax neutral – no increase in taxes – because a bond passed 20 years ago for the Lone Rock Middle
School expires in June 2020. The proposed operations levy would replace the bond payments in the same amount. Lone Rock School is located on Three Mile Creek Road, about 3.5 miles east of the Eastside Highway between Stevensville and Florence. It serves approximately 200 students in kindergarten through 8th grades, and is located within the northern part of the Stevensville High School District. It is a “district within a district,” operated and funded independently from the Stevensville School District. According to Lone Rock Superintendent Scott Stiegler, “Lone Rock School has tremendous support in the community, and our students excel because of the personal attention and family-oriented environment of the school. Our facilities, technology, and curriculum need some updating, which is tough to do within existing budgets. This levy will give us the extra funds needed to invest in deferred maintenance, upgrade aging technology, and update our curriculum, among other projects. The School Board seeks input from stakeholders on priorities before making final deci-
first ‘Mad Cow’ disease outbreak. But when the second outbreak occurred, Bob was 67 years old and ready to step away from the business. They sold the land and the buildings and closed the doors. Bob kept enough equipment to continue tinkering on old tractors – Farmalls are his preferred line – and building other little items. He has entered his tractors in several parades over the years. He is a member of the Tired Iron Club, the Corvallis Grange, and of course, the Bitterroot Stockgrowers. Bob served in the Navy for four years on active duty and another 38 years and one month in the Navy Reserve for a total of 42 years and one month. He says his commander said it wouldn’t be possible but Bob proudly says he was able to do it. Bob also was a 4H member and then a leader for many years. He was president of the 4H Council for two years. He helped many years with the swine barn and the livestock sale at the county fair. His son, Chris, carried on the tradition and helped in the swine barn as well. His daughter, Jeannette Smith, is a 4H leader in the same 4H club Bob was once a member of, Summerdale 4H Club.
Bitterroot Public Library Lone Rock School seeks hoping to put levy on ballot voter input for May levy
able funding, we would eventually have to reduce services, reduce hours, and ultimately reduce what we can provide to the community. We want to keep moving forward with our community as it grows and do everything we can to keep serving our community’s needs and interests.” Volunteers will be gathering signatures in the community and the petition is also available to sign Monday through Friday at Chapter One Book Store in Hamilton. For additional information about the proposed mill levy contact the library at 406-363-1670.
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Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star
Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell
Opinion
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Guest Comment
Stevensville ‘We the People’ program impressive By Representative Sharon Greef, HD88, Florence
This past week I had the great pleasure of being with young people from Stevensville High School as they presented a community hearing of the We the People competition. Acting as a judge for these six teams of excellent students was certainly not an easy task! We hear SO very much negative press about our young people today that it was incredibly refreshing to be with these students. They are part of We the People: The Citizen and the Constitution, a national program, led by their teacher, Wes Wells. It is so encouraging to see the knowledge and skills of presentation of these high school students. The Stevensville community should be very pleased with the support of superintendent Bob Moore, principal Brian Gum and especially teacher Wes Wells. My husband, Ed, and I have been honored to act as judges in the past and have learned and seen the passion Wes has for this program and these students. The program is after the regular school day.
‘Unforgivable, unforgettable, undeniable’
The students have committed to the program knowing the time they will have to invest will be added on to their already busy schedules. The program promotes civic competence and responsibility among our nation’s students. The material is tough! There are six units made up of from 3 to 6 students. One unit title is ‘What are the Philosophical and Historical Foundations of the American Political System?’ Another is ‘What Challenges Might Face American Constitutional Democracy in the Twenty-first Century?’ How many of us could answer these! So there the kids sat, at a table with their notebooks primed, ready to refer to once one of the judges asked a question. They did not know ahead of time what question we would choose to ask. They were prepared. Composed. Well-spoken. Gracious. I am SO very proud of these kids! Good luck to each of you as you compete with others from around the state!
Letters
Dear Editor, Such was the headline of a half-page color display ad in the latest edition of the Bitterroot Star. The ad was in support of the “climate crises,” but it shouted an unintended message: When objective science is abandoned, one is left only with childish arguments. I chuckled to myself almost immediately when I noticed the ad. I might have been amused by the artwork, and the content, because they were obviously produced by a child. Young indoctrinated children have become the new heralds of the “climate crises.” Think of world-renown teenage Swedish climate change activist, Greta Thunberg. But my amusement was not because of the cuteness of the artwork, but because the artwork displayed what happens when objective science is abandoned in an attempt to educate the unsuspecting public about global climate change. In 1989, Congress established the U.S. Global Change Research Program (USGCRP) to coordinate federal research related to the human and natural forces that affect the global environment. The program is considered the leading federal authority on global warming science and so its reports are eagerly parroted in Western media as part of an ongoing attempt to frighten uninformed voters into supporting massive government controls that would radically alter the lifestyle of all but the wealthiest Americans. The American public would be shocked to discover that some USGCRP climate assessments are merely environmental propaganda presented as convincing proof that immediate government intervention is required to avert calamity. Such harmful sophistry is “unforgivable, unforgettable, undeniable.”
Don’t you find it interesting that more government control is always presented as the solution to the climate change crisis, and never free-market solutions? The reader should ask at this point, how does this writer know the truth about this? How can he be so sure the USGCRP isn’t always presenting the truth? In answer to those good questions, I offer this: Are you willing to invest 13 minutes of your valuable time to find out for yourself? Mr. Tony Heller is a welleducated man, holding a B.S. degree in geology and a Master’s degree in electrical engineering. Tony operates the website RealClimateScience.com, where he investigates the data presentations by the USGCRP and other government entities. The following link is to a 13-minute video Heller produced to show how the USGCRP knowingly cherry-picks climate data, and omits contrary data, to produce their frightening climate assessments. The important issue to consider is how climate change data are presented. Advocates on both sides of the climate change debate have access to the same data. The difference is how the data are presented. Watch the video and decide for yourself (carefully type this into your web browser): https://www.youtube.com/ watch?time_continue=603&v=845 5KEDitpU&feature=emb_logo Dennis Hicks Hamilton
Not fact-based
Dear Editor, Bob Williams’ recent letter in the Bitterroot Star is replete with irrational liberal thinking! Rationally thinking Americans believe Bob should follow his own advice and find fact based news! Jerry Haslip Victor
Bitterroot Star
Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com
Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta The Bitterroot Star is published weekly at 115 W. 3rd Street, Suite 108, Stevensville, Montana. Subscriptions are $40 per year in Ravalli County, $50 per year out of county, and $60 out of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.
Member Montana Newspaper Association Member Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Member Stevensville Main Street Association Member Hamilton Downtown Association
Support for Fox
Dear Editor, Tim Fox is running in the Republican primary for Governor. I ran against Fox for Attorney General in 2012 and lost, but I support him for Governor. Born, raised, and educated in Montana, Tim has proven he understands the needs of Montanans at every level. Living his whole life in Montana he understands the Montana economy, all that it has to offer, and where it could use improvements. As Attorney General, Tim showed his colors as a pro-life advocate, standing for 2nd amendment rights, and against federal overreach. Vote for Fox in the Republican primary and get an experienced executive, with good judgment, who is familiar with the highest level of our State government. Jim Shockley Victor
It’s the Republic, stupid!
Dear Editor, Please forgive my abuse of Past President Clinton’s famous quote, but it seems time to remind folks that we live in a republic, not a democracy. The words are not synonymous although we seldom reflect upon this fact. Many national political leaders continuously refer to our democracy; seldom if ever do they refer to our republic. Remember Franklin told us the founders gave us “A republic, madam, if you can keep it.” May I suggest that this choice of words is not due to carelessness or ignorance but is very deliberate. Our Presidents are elected by an Electoral College; not the popular vote. This assures that states having scant populations are not overwhelmed by the votes of more populated states. After-all, the states which created the Union were all giving up the same degrees of sovereignty. I am sure most of us are aware that without the Electoral College,
votes of the left coast states (especially California) and New York will determine the Presidency. The votes of you and I, the residents of fly over country, would be rendered meaningless. Remember that every democracy in history has failed. Poor old Socrates had 216 judges! I can’t even imagine the chaos resulting from implementing foreign or economic policies through the eyes of a President beholden to the voters of California and New York. Far-fetched? The idea of abolishing or changing the Electoral College is in fact constantly being advocated by leading left leaning politicians. Yes, it would assure the wonderful goal of ‘one man, one vote’. It sounds so reasonable, so democratic. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make sense for the Presidency. As this critical election year progresses the College will be viciously attacked by the Left. Actually, daily attacks are already underway. You can be sure that if such change is made we will have the tyranny of the majority. Rights such as bearing arms and freedom of speech will be a risk. If we ever lose the Electoral College, our votes will not be worth a damn! Edward Sperry, Col USAF (ret) Stevensville
Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame needs change
Dear Editor, My fellow Montanans, I feel compelled to bring to your attention an issue that should concern you. The Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame [MCHF] Board of Directors wasted nearly $1 million in taxpayer and contribution funds and no one has been held to account. The MCHF Board has lost the trust and support of Montanans.
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#2 - House - Take the top two sentences and move them below the house. Delete everything else in the "We also handle" para-
• The Membership dues have declined from its peak in 2013 of $41,527 (that was before the news of the Big Timber Debacle was made public) to net dues of $13,634 in 2018. • Members of the Board of Directors have declined from 21 (before the Big Timber Debacle) to 12 by the Feb 2019 Annual Meeting. Only 7 members of the Board of Directors attended the Feb, 2019 Annual Meeting. • Trustee Membership? – The last # I had was 91with only a few attending the 2019 annual meeting. Trustees were asked to stand at the MCHF Induction Ceremony--fewer than 12 stood up. A reorganization of MCHF is the only way to unify Montanans again and to regain trust and support. I want Montanans to select the Montana Cowboy Hall of Fame & Western Heritage Museum Site. You can help by attending the MCHF Annual Meeting on February 8, 2020. Bob Sivertsen, MCHF Member 2013 MCHF Inductee Havre
Thanks to Stevensville High School
Dear Editor, The American Legion Post wants to thank the Stevi HS for an exciting evening with students studying the U.S. Constitution. Yes, it was exciting to observe students explaining and defending basic issues concerning our Constitution. We think this program deserves community awareness and support. The program is
entitled: “We The People (The Citizen and the Constitution).” Since the program started in 1987 it has reached 30 million students. The program is nationwide, but the contest which we witnessed has only been conducted in Stevensville. The Legion hopes other schools in the valley will decide to participate and compete. An example of just one of the questions addressed is presented to give the reader the degree of academic study and rational thought demanded of the contestants. “How have the values and principles embodied in the Constitution shaped American institutions and practices?” Maybe some of us should try to answer that one during our next coffee break. Yes, it would be a challenge for most of us. The state contest will be held in Helena on January21st. We wish them success! Our special thanks go to Superintendent Bob Moore, the teacher/coach Wes Wells, quest speaker The Honorable Magistrate Kathleen DeSoto and the contest judges Representatives Ballance and Greef and Senator Thomas. As legionnaires, we bring this event to the our neighbors’ attention because of our sincere concerns about failure to teach about our Constitution in many schools over the past few decades. Ed Sperry, Montana Past Commander Stevensville
Letters Policy
Although it is solely at the discretion of the owners/editors, in the interest of promoting free speech it is the policy of the Bitterroot Star to print all letters as space permits, with very few exceptions. If you don’t see yours, call Victoria at 777-3928.
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Calendar
Hamilton Senior Center activities
Monday: Lunch 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m., Toenail Care by appt. 1st & last week; Bingo 1st & 3rd week, 5:30-9 p.m. Tuesday: Toastmasters 6:30-8 a.m.; Western Line Dancing 10-11 a.m.; Clogging 1-4 p.m. Wednesday: Lunch 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Bridge for Fun, 10 a.m.; Bridge 1-5 p.m. Thursday: Stretch Exercise 9-10 a.m. Friday: Line dancing 10-11:30 a.m.; Lunch 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m.; Pinochle 1st, 3rd & 5th weeks, 1 p.m. Saturday: Flea market, 2nd week, Sept-May 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Special Bingo 1st week, Oct-May, 12 noon; Sunday: Bridge 1-5 p.m. For info: 363-5181.
Stevi Senior Center activities
Monday-Friday: Free coffee, 8-11 a.m., Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Monday: Bridge, 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday: Exercise class, 10-11 a.m. Tuesday: Quilters, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday: Paint with Sue, 1-3 p.m. (1:30 on 3rd Wednesday) Every Other Wednesday: Fiddlers at Lunch 3rd Wednesday: Special Birthday Lunch, 12 noon, with music. Blood pressures taken. 2nd and 4th Thursday: Cribbage at 12:15 pm Friday: Pinochle, 12:15; Monday & Saturday, 7 p.m. For more information call the Center at 777-5681.
Victor Senior Center activities
Monday-Friday - Men’s Coffee, 8 a.m. Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Includes main course, salad bar, dessert, beverage. Donation 60 and over $3.50, under 60 $6 (RSVP 642-3320) Tuesdays: Bingo, 6 p.m. Wednesdays: Pinochle with snacks, 7 p.m. Fridays - Ladies’ Coffee, 10 a.m. Everyone welcome. Victor Senior Center is located at 246 5th Avenue.
Florence senior lunches
Lunch is available through the Council on Aging for senior citizens and others in the Florence area on Mondays at the Florence Fire Hall. Serving begins at 11:30 a.m. Prices are: 60 and over $3.50, under 60 - $6.00. For more information, call the Council on Aging at 363-5690.
Lolo senior lunches
Lolo senior lunch group (60+) meets Thursday at 11 a.m. at local restaurants for food, friendship and fun. There is a $4 voluntary contribution but no one is turned away. Congregate lunches through MAS and CBS. Call 9262135 to schedule your lunch.
Golden Agers
The Golden Age Club is located at 727 S. 5th in Hamilton. The club’s business meeting is held on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m. All members are asked to attend to review activities and plan new ones. Cake and ice cream is served. Card games (pinochle, multibid racehorse) are played on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday and 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 1 p.m. There is a $2 charge per person. Exercise classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and
Friday at 9 a.m. Blood pressure is checked every third Wednesday of the month at 9 a.m. Guests are welcome. The hall is also available for members to use for personal activities. A monetary donation to cover hall expenses is expected. For more information call 363-0142.
AA meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the following times and places: Monday: 7 p.m., Spirit of Christ Catholic Church, 5475 Farm Land Road, Lolo Tuesday: 7 p.m., St. Mary’s Parish basement, 333 Charlo Street, Stevensville Wednesday: Big Book Study Meeting, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Mission, 224 Linder Street, Florence Thursday: 7 p.m., St. Mary’s Parish basement, 333 Charlo Street, Stevensville Friday: Discussion Meeting, 7:30 p.m., St. Joseph Mission, 224 Linder Street, Florence 3rd Saturday: Women’s Group, 9:30 a.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church, 224 Linder Street, Florence Sunday: Big Book Study Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Victor Senior Center, 243 5th Ave. Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.
Al-Anon
Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the small dining room at the Living Centre, 57 Main Street. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 239-0878.
Narcotics Anon
Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).
Free Indeed
Free Indeed, a faith-based addiction support group, meets every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 230 3rd Avenue in Victor. Contact Donald Layman at 203-8579 or Pastor Jim Landis at 642-9849.
Gamblers Anon
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
Overeaters Anon
Overeaters Anonymous meets every Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church (west door), 1220 W. Main, Hamilton. For more information call 3632512.
Morning TOPS
Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), a weight loss support group, meets in Stevensville every Thursday at the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street. Weigh-in starts at 8 a.m. and meetings start at 9:30 a.m. Meetings are fun while learning to eat healthier and lose some pounds. Guests are always welcome. Call Becky at 642-6368 or Margie at 375-5439 for more information. Check out the website at www. tops.org.
Evening TOPS
The evening TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter meets every Thursday at 4 p.m. at the Kootenai Creek Village Clubhouse. For information call Judy Burke at 777-2743.
Exercise classes
The following sessions, all
Bitterroot Star -- Page 5
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
by donation, are held at St. Francis Pastoral Center, 411 S. 5th: Thursdays: Tai Chi, 4 p.m. Fridays: Tai Chi, 1 p.m. Indoor Walking: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.12 noon. Please log in, 16 laps is a mile!
WIC clinics
Ravalli County WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. Income guidelines are 1-$23,107; 2- $31,284; 3-$39,461; 4-$47,638; 5-$55,815. For each additional family member add $8,177. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Facebook; www. facebook.com/Ravalli-CountyWIC.
Florence American Legion
Florence American Legion Post 134 meets the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Station. Call Terry Wahl, Commander, at 274-4589 for more information.
Hamilton American Legion
Hamilton American Legion Post 47 invites all veterans and family members of veterans to the monthly meetings on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post at 322 S. 2nd Street.
Stevensville American Legion
The Stevensville American Legion Post 94 meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Post Home on Middle Burnt Fork Road. A veterans’ breakfast is held every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at C.J.’s Den in Stevensville. For more information, contact Chuck at 253-380-7016.
American Legion Auxiliary
Fort Owen Unit 94, Stevensville, American Legion Auxiliary meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Call Cheryl at 531-4132 for more information.
Addresses requested
American Legion Unit 94 is requesting addresses for those serving overseas from family and friends so that they may send Troop Boxes throughout the year. Contact Carol at 406-529-9908.
Stevi VFW
The Stevensville VFW 1507 meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Frontier Café.
Marine Corps League
The Marine Corps League welcomes all Marines from all eras, along with Corpsmen and Chaplains who have served with
the FMF. The League is a national veterans’ organization that include members of all ranks, all MOS, active duty, reserves, honorably discharged veterans and retirees. It carries on the traditions of the Corps, support Marines still serving, and assist those who have left the service when needed. Meetings are on the 4th Thursday of every month, January to October at 7:30 p.m. for general meetings at the Eagles Lodge, 125 N. 2nd Street, Hamilton. Activities include Toys for Tots, Honor Guards for veteran funerals and Color Guards for parade events, rifle and pistol matches, and support of Marines and the community, and a Marine Birthday celebration in November. An SOS Breakfast and informal get-together for members, spouses, family and friends is held every first Saturday at 9:30 a.m. from January to December at the Hangar Cafe, Ravalli County Airport, Hamilton. It’s an opportunity to get acquainted, exchange ideas, and share sea stories from the past. For more information contact Meade Phillips at 520-9916386 or at USMCmeadeMCL@ aol.com or visit www.mclnational. org or www.montanamcl.org .
VA medical rides
The DAV Transportation System has a hub in the Bitterroot with rides available Monday through Friday. To book a ride to your VA Medical appointments, call Dena at 363-8396. Give at least 72 hours notice. The hub is always looking for volunteer drivers. For information call Dena at 363-8396.
Soroptomist
Soroptomist International of Hamilton invites you to join them at their meetings the first and second Thursday of every month, at noon, at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Soroptomist is an organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls. For more information, contact Dixie Dies at 961-4812.
Rotary Club
The Hamilton Rotary Club meets Mondays, 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. First Street, Hamilton. For information about Rotary, call 363-2960.
Lions Club
The Hamilton Lions Club welcomes you to attend its meetings the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. The club strength – besides being low key and getting a lot done – is helping provide assistance for glasses and hearing aids in Ravalli County. Contact Dixie Dies, 406-3810922, for more information.
Stevi Masons
The Stevensville Masonic Lodge #28 meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 300 Church Street, Stevensville. Stated meetings are on the first Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and special dinners are on the third Thursday at 6:30 p.m. For information or membership email: stevilodge28@ gmail.com.
Victor Masons
Victor Masonic Lodge #43 meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. The Lodge is located on Main above Farmers State Bank. For information on membership, email plycoupe1936@msn.com.
Eastern Star
Naomi Chapter #19, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the Victor Lodge building located on Main Street above Farmers State Bank, Victor. Leona Chapter #31, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Thursdays at 7 p.m. in the Masonic Lodge building, 115 S. 3rd Street (next to the Fire Station), Hamilton. For inquiries contact, email: teslrudd@gmail.com.
BPL storytime It’s never too early to
introduce your baby or toddler to the wonderful world of books and reading. Together you will discover the joy of songs, finger plays, simple books and bouncing rhymes. The toddler storytime for babies through age 2 meets every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Toddler storytime lasts approximately 45 minutes. For more information, call 363-1670.
DCPL storytime
Learning to read begins before children start school. Your public library promotes early literacy and social development with weekly programming for children. The Darby Community Public Library offers a weekly Children’s Story Time every Tuesday at 11 a.m. for all children under five years old with a caregiver. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play at your library, 101-1/2 S. Marshall St. Call 821-4771 or email: staff@ darbylibrary.net for information.
NVPL storytime
Story Time is an enriching early learning program for toddlers and preschoolers that takes place on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. in the North Valley Public Library’s Community Room. Each week has a different theme, and children can listen to entertaining stories, participate in fun songs and learning activities, and create a cool craft! Each Story Time includes a healthy snack and some time to play with new friends. Older and younger siblings are always welcome. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 406-7775061 or visit northvalleylibrary. org. All library programs are free and open to the public.
Sapphire Quilt Club
The Sapphire Quilt Club meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission Street. Join this fun group of people to learn about quilting. Beginner to expert quilters welcome. For more information call Anna Arntz at 707-481-3233.
Fiber Arts Guild
Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild meets the last Saturday of every month. If you are a wool spinner or work with fibers, contact Marty at 777-2421 for location or information or visit http://bigskyfiberartsguild.org.
Knitters Guild
The Knotty Knitters Guild of the Bitterroot meets every 4th Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Yarn Center, 110 Pinckney Street, Hamilton. This knitters guild is friendly, fun, and includes knitters of all levels, from beginners to master knitters. All are welcome.
Doll Club
The Bitterroot Blizzard Doll Club meets monthly, usually the second Thursday of the month, to share a passion for dolls, bears, toys, miniatures and paper dolls. Members rotate hosting the meeting so call or email for the time and location of the next meeting. Contact Kay Schrader, 406-3607214, schrader1501@blackfoot. net.
Model train club
The Bitterroot Valley Model Railroaders (BVMRR) run their trains in the basement of the Kohl Building, downtown Stevensville, on the First Friday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m., or by special request. The BVMRR Club will be running trains every Saturday over the holidays from Nov. 30-Dec. 21 from 1 to 4 p.m. If interested in joining the club, contact Tony Oberting at 273-0006.
Radio Club
The Bitterroot Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Monday of every month at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton starting at 7 p.m. Come early and enjoy a
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Main MainSt. • Stevensville 203 Stevensville• •777-0028 360-2661
Christmas Eve 4:30 PM Worship atService 12:00 p.m. Worship 11 AM In Sunday this Church there shall
In this Church there shall be no outcasts. be no outcasts.
meal and fellowship.
Draft Horse and Mule Club
The Bitterroot Draft Horse and Mule Club meets every second Monday of every other month at 7 p.m. at Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street, Stevensville. Members drive everything from mini, to mule, to draft horse. Haven’t driven but would like to learn? This is the club for you! Don’t have a horse but would like to get involved? There is always welcome help and there is always a spot on a wagon somewhere. Members do rides as well and have events scheduled throughout the year. For more information call Claudia at 406642-3477.
Three Mile bingo
Bingo is held every first and third Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Community/Senior Center, 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Proceeds go to build a new center. For information call 7773710.
Toastmasters
Effectively formulate and express your ideas! Bitterroot Toastmasters Club (BTC) meets Tuesdays from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th Street, to support personal development and empower communication and leadership skills. The words we speak convey a great deal! Do you mean what you say when you communicate during a job interview or with your boss, coworkers, and family? Wouldn’t you like to feel more confident, credible, and concise in your speaking presentation? Bitterroot Toastmasters can help! BCT members are given opportunities to wear different hats and fulfill many roles. Visit the website at bitterroot.toastmastersclubs.org or call Mike Turner at 406-360-7262 or Jeanine New at 303-929-2430 for more information.
Clothes Closet
The Stevensville Clothes Closet is a non-profit, free store that serves the people of the Bitterroot Valley by accepting donations of children and adult clothing, shoes, linens, small appliances and kitchenware. They then sort, wash and offer the goods free to the community. The Clothes Closet is located at Middle Burnt Fork and ALC way. It is open for shopping and for donations Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. The Clothes Closet is especially in need of blankets, sheets and comforters. For questions about donations or directions call Gail Fisher at 369-0394 or Molly Hackett at 961-4614.
Family Shelter
The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot meets on the third Friday of each month at 2 p.m. at Canyon View Church, 195 Skalkaho Road. Everyone is welcome.
Men’s Bereavement Breakfast
Marcus Daly Hospice sponsors a Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast on the second and fourth Friday of each month at 9 a.m. in the Marcus Daly Hospice Dining Room. This breakfast creates a special opportunity for men coping with the death of a spouse or loved one to gather and share their journey of healing. Informal discussions are led by a trained Bereavement Facilitator and address such issues as dealing with grief, loneliness, forming new continued on next page
Page 6 -- Bitterroot Star relationships, single parenting. A donation of $3.00 is appreciated for the meal. For more information call Marcus Daly Bereavement Coordinator at 363-6503.
Breast cancer support group
The Bitterroot Valley breast cancer support group meets the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Daly Leach Memorial Community Room, 1010 W. Main, Hamilton. All are welcome. For information contact Judy Rothie, (406) 564-8613.
Pregnant/new mom groups
Postpartum Support Circle and Baby Bistro (breastfeeding support) meet on the second Thursday of each month and a Prenatal Support Circle meets on the fourth Thursday of the month. All meetings are held at 109 N. 4th St. Suite 104 in Hamilton from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. For more information, call Sheehan at 6426527 or email bitterrootbreastfeeding@gmail.com.
MomLife
Bitterroot MomLife is a gathering of moms with kids of all ages, meeting twice a month September-May on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Lone Rock Bible Church, 1142 Three Mile Creek Road, Stevensville. Come join in for “grown-up” conversation, brunch, activities, crafts, speakers, Go Deeper discussions and free childcare. For more info call the church office, 777-2592.
Dementia Caregiver Group
Are you a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia? You’re invited to join in an informal group on the second Friday each month at 1 p.m. at The Living Center Chapel (second floor), 63 Main, Stevensville to share your concerns and experiences with others in a same or similar situation. If you would like to attend, your loved one is welcome to visit with facility residents with staff supervision during the meeting time. For more information contact Kati Aiken at Ravalli County Council on Aging, 363-5690.
Parkinson’s support group
A Parkinson’s support group meets the third Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at Sapphire Lutheran Homes. All are welcome. Contact Susan, 369-0535, for more information.
Suicide support group
A support group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 12 noon at Riverfront Mental Health Center, 209 N. 10th, Suite A (blue building), Hamilton. The group is hosted by Ravalli County Suicide Prevention Alliance. For information email: rwetzel@wmmhc.org or phone 375-4095.
NAMI
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) support group for families and friends with a loved one who experience mental challenges, meets the second Monday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12 noon at Cornerstone Church, 280 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. For more information contact Donna at (406) 381-9884 or Arlene at (406) 239-1708.
Family History Libraries
The Family History Center has two locations here in the Bitterroot Valley: Hamilton and Stevensville. Come research your family history with specialists who are happy and ready to assist you in finding your ancestral records. They can also help you organize photos and stories about people
Wednesday, January 15, 2020 in your family tree. The Family History Center has free access to genealogical sites. You are invited to come and have fun discovering your family history at either of the two Family History Center locations. Hamilton Family History Center Located inside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 401 N 8th Street Hamilton, MT 59840 Ring the bell at the WEST entrance for admittance (up high) Tuesday 11am-3pm Wednesday 11am-3pm and 6pm-8pm Thursday 11am-3pm You may call and schedule private or group appointments by calling 406-363-5146. Stevensville Family History Center Located inside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 100 Middle Burnt Fork Road Stevensville, MT 59870 Ring the bell at the EAST entrance for admittance Monday 12pm-4pm Tuesday 9am-4pm Wednesday 6:30pm-9:00pm Thursday 12pm-4pm Friday 12pm-4pm You may call and schedule private or group appointments by calling 406-777-5018.
Volunteer opp
The Stevensville Clothes Closet free store is in need of a few volunteers to help sort, wash and hang donated items. The shifts are from 12:30 to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Volunteers can commit to one day per week or all three days. If interested, call manager Gail Fisher at 777-5694. The Clothes Closet is a non-profit free store that accepts donations of clothing, linens and some household items and then offers them to the community free of charge. The Clothes Closet is located at 3862 ALC Way, off of Middle Burnt Fork Road in Stevensville.
Adult open swim
Bitterroot Aquatic Center offers Adult Open Swim on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Enjoy the 91-degree water and work out at your own pace. Call 375-8200 for more information or visit the website at bitterrootaquaticcenter.com
Music Jam
An acoustic music jam sponsored by the Bitterroot School of Music is held the 4th Tuesday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rooted Music located at 100 Skeels Street, Suite A in Hamilton. All acoustic instruments are welcome as is anyone who would like to sing or just come and enjoy the music. For info contact Rooted Music at 406-363-5491.
Street, Stevensville. Meetings are open to the public and public input is welcomed. The agenda is posted on the front window of the library and on the library’s website at least 48 hours prior to meetings: https://www.northvalleylibrary. org/docs
Quantum Group
The Quantum Group of the Bitterroot is a group of ordinary people determined to learn about quantum theory. They study relevant material (no equations), discuss it and teach one another this most important field of science. The group meets every other Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Community Center in Hamilton. New members invited and welcomed. Visit the website at www//Quantumgb or e-mail blaise.favara@gmail or call 3630683 for more information.
Center for Spiritual Life
Center for Spiritual Life holds Sunday Services at 328 Fairgrounds Road, across from Hamilton High School. Come hear inspiring ideas and uplifting music. Meditation begins at 9 a.m., service begins at 9:30 a.m., stay for fellowship in the Social Hall at 10:45 a.m. For further information call Dave Schultz at 381-2355, visit CSLBitterroot.org, or on Facebook: CSLBitterroot.
Course in Miracles Study Group
Join a weekly ongoing and deepening discussions of A Course in Miracles; a journey of spiritual transformation. The class meets Wednesdays from 9:45 a.m. to 12 noon at The Center for Spiritual Life, 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. By donation. More information on Facebook: CSLBitterroot, or at cslbitterroot.org., or call Selma at 381-6480.
Rainbow Refuge
A spiritual support group for people of alternative lifestyles, and for those who love them. Meets every Thursday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at The Center for Spiritual Life, 328 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. Contact Jenny or Luanne at 3755237; RainbowRefuge406@gmail. com/
Drum Circle
Join in on the 2nd and 4th Mondays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bring your drum, rattles, and other instruments and be part of the fun. No drums? No worries! There are instruments to share. Meets at The Center for Spiritual Life, 328 Fairground Road, Hamilton. By donation. For information, contact Jerry at 381-7220 (jelb229@aol. com), Facebook at CSLBitterroot or visit the website: CSLBitterroot.org.
Three Mile Coffee Saturday bingo Special Saturday Bingo is Club held every third Saturday of the Three Mile Coffee Club meets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For information call Colleen at 777-3710.
Volunteers needed
Volunteers are needed for the Victor Volunteer Fire Department support group. This group provides food for the Wednesday evening meetings of the Victor Fire Department. Support group members are responsible for one week per month only. What you decide to make is up to you, serving about 20 people. Soups, stews, casseroles, etc. and a dessert. Call Sharon at 642-3844 for additional information.
North Valley Library board
The North Valley Public Library Board of Trustees meets the third Wednesday of the month at 3 p.m. at the library at 208 Main
month at Victor Senior Center. Doors open at 12 noon, play at 1 p.m. $1 per card. $1 admission. Must be 18 to play. Snacks and coffee available. Everyone welcome. Call Glenda at 360-3074 for more information.
Socrates Cafe
Socrates Café takes place every other Tuesday evening (May 14) from 7 to 9 p.m. in the meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Join in the philosophical discussions. Bring questions to be selected and discussed at the meeting. You are invited to examine, learn and think with others. Learn how others view the world. Together generate community, understanding and change together. Tea, coffee and cookies are provided.
Laundry Love
Laundry Love Hamilton, a monthly laundry event for homeless and low-income individuals/ families, takes place the 2nd Thursday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fast & Fluffy, 115 Pine Street, Hamilton. 3 loads per individual/family. Check in with a
Laundry Love Hamilton volunteer to sign in and receive your washer card. All laundry detergent, fabric softener and quarters will be supplied by Laundry Love Hamilton. Laundry guests must remain on site. Laundry Love Hamilton is made possible by donations, business sponsorships, fundraisers and volunteers. For more information or to inquire on how your business/organization can help, contact Laundry Love Hamilton by email: laundrylovehamiltonmt@gmail. com.
Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
Trout Unlimited
The Elks will be serving dinner on Wednesday, January 15 at 6 p.m. The menu is chiliburgers, fries, coleslaw and dessert. Coffee is included with the meal. The lounge bar will open at 3 p.m. The cost for dinner is $11 for members and $12 for non/members. Bring a friend and enjoy! The Lodge is located at 203 State Street in Hamilton behind Neff’s Carpet. For further information call the office at 363-3031.
MFWP Fisheries Division Administrator Eileen Ryce, also known as the “Fish Chief,” will give a presentation about “strategies for protecting native trout in a changing climate” at the Trout Unlimited meeting on Thursday, January 16 at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Elks Club at 203 State Street. Born in Scotland, Eileen Ryce moved to Montana in 1997 to do a PhD at MSU on aquatic invasive species. At the time, whirling disease was naively thought to be the biggest threat Montana’s fisheries would ever face. In 2004, she started work as manager of the MFWP’s new Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Program. Eileen was named Administrator of the Fisheries Division in 2017 and is facing off with a battalion of challenges like AIS, illegal introductions, habitat degradation while managing 400 employees, 12 hatcheries and 335 fishing access sites. However, a changing climate with warming water temperatures and low flows poses a true existential threat transcending other issues. The “Fish Chief” will describe the current situation as well projected trends, and relate what steps are being taken to vouchsafe Montana’s singular wild and native trout fisheries, as well as other irreplaceable aquatic species. The public is invited to attend and there is no charge for admission. For more information, contact Marshall Bloom or Jeremy Anderson.
Thurs, January 16
Sat, January 18
Wed, January 15 RCEDA
Ravalli County Economic Development Authority will hold its regular monthly Finance Committee meeting on Wednesday, January 15th from 2:15 to 2:55 p.m., and the regular monthly meeting of the Board of Commissioners on Wednesday, January 15 from 3 to 5 p.m. Both meetings will be held at the RCEDA office, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. The meetings are open to the public.
Elks dinner
Neck Pain class
Learn How to Eliminate Neck Pain in a free one-hour class on Thursday, January 16 starting at 5:30 p.m. in the Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital Blodgett conference room. Are you suffering from neck pain? Learn about the many treatment options available to you, ranging from holistic approaches, injections, and minimally invasive treatment options only available in the Northwest at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. Hear from patients that had debilitating neck pain, who now have their life back. You have options; come learn more about them! The class is being taught by Dr. Richard Day, a highly experienced neurosurgeon, who incorporates yoga and other holistic approaches into his own lifestyle. Doors open at 5 p.m. For more information, visit www.mdmh.org/events or call (406) 363-2211.
Back Country Horsemen
Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen host their monthly meeting on Thursday, January 16 at the Corvallis School Cafeteria on Eastside Highway in Corvallis. Potluck dinner will be served at 6:30 p.m. and the general meeting starts at 7 p.m. Guest speaker will be James Jonkel, FWP’s bear specialist, who will present a program on grizzly bears in the Bitterroot Valley and dispel any rumors about grizzlies that have been circulating. Dates for the 2020 trail projects will be presented, along with updates on the 2020 Back Country Horsemen state convention that the chapter is hosting in March. Guests and new members are welcome. For more information call Gene at 208-3106326 or check out the website at www.bchmt.org/bitterroot or on Facebook at: Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen (BR BCH).
Friday, January 17 Pachyderm Club
The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, January 17 at 12 noon at The Frontier Café, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be John Palacio, Director/Environmental Health Specialist will talk about septic system rules and regulations and Kelsey will do a brief presentation on Radon Gas. The North
Adventure series
“I Have a Dream” is the theme of the free adventure series for kids on Saturday, January 18 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Ravalli County Museum, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton. Learn about Martin Luther King, Jr. and the peace he promoted for all people as you write about your dreams! Help promote kindness for our community, this country, and the world! Use your cutting skills to create a world of your own from construction paper and color it with love! For more information contact the museum at 363-3338.
ton Christian Academy, will be speaking at the next meeting of the Hamilton Rotary Club, on Monday, January 20 at 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st Street, Hamilton. Stephanie will bring an update on school activities and programs. The meeting is open to the public, and visitors are welcome. For further Rotary Club information, call 363-2960.
Audubon meeting
Bitterroot Audubon’s January meeting will feature a presentation on the use of drones for natural resource management. Stevensville native Philip Williams recently completed an MS in Forestry at UM, emphasizing geographic information systems (GIS)/remote sensing and ecological restoration. He will discuss the multiple uses, misuses, opportunities, and challenges of using drones in a natural resources management context, with an emphasis on applicability to nature conservation. While drones have hitherto been mainly used for military purposes, they are increasingly becoming relevant to forestry, wildlife, and general conservation practices. However, these opportunities come with pros and cons, like any technology made applicable to natural resources management and conservation. The Audubon meeting and Philip’s presentation are on Monday, January 20 at 7 p.m. at the Bitterroot National Forest Headquarters on Hwy 93 on the north end of Hamilton. Enter the building on the west side. The presentation is free, and the public is invited. Contact Kay Fulton (3608664) for additional information.
Wed, January 22 Free Throw Contest
The annual Knights of Columbus Free Throw Contest will be held Wednesday, January 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Hamilton Middle School Gym. This event is free of charge and open to all Ravalli County youth ages 9-14. Registration/score sheets and information sheets are available from all public school physical education teachers in the valley. For more information, call Rick Borden, 363-6027.
Bitterroot Guild Darby Dog Derby Quilters The Bitterroot Quilters
The Montana Mountain Mushers and Bitterroot Mushers have announced the 13th Annual Darby Dog Derby Sled Dog Race to be held January 18th & 19th at Lost Trail Pass/Gibbons Pass Road (#1260). Skijor races begin at 9 a.m. and dog teams at 10:30 a.m. both days. Races include 8-, 6-, 4-dog, 3-dog junior and two skijor categories. A pee wee race will be held Saturday for children 4-10 following the conclusion of the races (about 2 p.m.). $5/child, dogs and sled provided for the first 10 entrants; pre-register to ensure your child gets to race. For more information visit www.bitterrootmushers.org or email: bitterroomushers@hotmail.com.
Mon, January 20
Guild will meet Wednesday, January 22 at 6:30 p.m. in the Daly Leach Community Room, 1010 W. Main, Hamilton. Anyone with an interest in quilting is encouraged to come early to socialize and shop the ‘Ugli Bin’ for a bargain before the meeting; doors open at 6 p.m. Bill Smith and his wife Suzette from the Three Mile Store will share a Trunk Show of their work during the second half of the meeting. Refreshments will be served, and members share their own projects during a Show and Tell. Membership in the Guild is open to quilters from beginner through advanced; contact Tena Chapman, Membership Chair, at 406-381-4755, or attend Wednesday’s meeting as a guest. For more information, visit the Bitterroot Quilters Guild on Facebook.
Stevi school menu Thurs, January 23 Monday: No school - Martin
Luther King Jr Day Tuesday: Breakfast - Breakfast Bar, fruit, milk; Lunch - BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich, taters, pear slices, bread & butter, milk Wednesday: Breakfast Chocolate Muffins, fruit, milk; Lunch - Taco Salad with Lettuce, cheese & salsa, corn chips, orange slices, bread & butter, milk Thursday: Breakfast - Egg & Cheese Wraps, fruit, milk; Lunch - Beef Steaks, mashed potatoes & gravy, sliced peaches, dinner rolls, bread & butter, milk Friday: Breakfast - Blueberry Muffins, fruit, milk; Lunch - Chicken Sandwich, fresh veggies with ranch dressing, grapes, bread & butter, milk.
Rotary Club
Stephanie Beck, Administrator and Principal of Hamil-
Montana Climate presentation
Bruce Maxwell, one of the lead authors of the 2017 Montana Climate Assessment (MCA), will speak Thursday, January 23 at 7 p.m. in the Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor’s office public meeting room (1801 N. First Street, Hamilton). The talk is sponsored by the Bitterroot Climate Action Group (BCAG), and will be free and open to the public. The Montana Climate Assessment is a report prepared by experts at the direction of Governor Steve Bullock. The purpose of the MCA report was to analyze the predicted effects of climate change on Montana, with region-specific predictions of the likely consequences for water, forests, and agriculture.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Dr. Maxwell is a Professor in the Department of Land Resources and Environmental Science at Montana State University, specializing in agroecology, invasive plant ecology, and weed biology. His contributions to the MCA focused on the effects of global warming on agriculture in Montana. Dr. Maxwell will describe the findings of the MCA and will update those findings with more recent information. Understanding the range of likely results of global warming should help Bitterroot Valley residents adjust their farming, gardening, forestry, and business practices accordingly.
Sat, January 25 Crafter’s Swap Meet
The Bitterroot Crafter’s Swap Meet will be held Saturday and Sunday, January 25 & 26 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Lone Rock School, 1112 Three Mile Creek Road, Stevensville. Bring your handmade crafts and that stash of new or gently used craft supplies (fabric, yarn, craft paint, scrapbook paper, etc.) that you
don’t need and set up a booth to purge that clutter! Vendor spaces are $25 until Jan. 8th, then $30. Crafters can also donate supplies and proceeds will be given to the Three Mile Community Center building fund. Visit the Bitterroot Crafter’s Swap Meet on Facebook or call Kathy (406) 529-2971 for more details.
Sun, January 26 Trap-release workshop
Footloose Montana will present a free trap-release workshop on Sunday, January 26 from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library, 306 State Street, Hamilton. Trapping season has begun. What will you do if your pet gets caught in a trap? Learn first aid and how to handle a trap in an emergency. Learn trap regulations and how to avoid traps. Be prepared when you venture outdoors with your best friend! Go to www. footloosemontana.org or footloose montana facebook page for more information. Email info@footloosemontana.org or call 406-2821482 with questions.
Water Forum pint night
Join the Bitter Root Water Forum for a beer on Sunday, January 26 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Bitter Root Brewing, 101 Marcus in Hamilton. A portion of every brew sold will benefit building community around the waters of the Bitterroot Valley. Bid at the silent auction from 4 to 7 p.m., enjoy door prizes, and enter a raffle to win a float trip for two with Eddie Olwell of Fishs Eddy O - Fly Fishing Outfitter and Guide Service.
Mon, January 27 OULA Fitness Class
OULA Fitness Class will be held Monday, January 27 from 5:45 to 6:45 p.m. at Fort Owen Ranch, Stevensville. OULA is an easy to follow, high cardio, dance fitness class for people of all abilities. It is a motivating hour of high-energy exercise to great music where participants are free to let it all out, and dance free of
judgment. Class taught by Alli Bristow, certified OULA fitness instructor. Participants should dress light and comfortably with athletic, running type shoes. Bring a water bottle and your energy for a super fun class! Questions? Contact MSU/Ravalli Extension at 375-6611.
Sat, February 1 Beekeepers
Beekeepers of the Bitterroot is presenting its annual Beginning Beekeeping Class on Saturday, February 1st at the Bitterroot River Inn and Conference Center in Hamilton from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. This class is designed for wannabe beekeepers or anyone interested in supporting our pollinators. Registration is required and lunch is included in the $20 registration fee. Check in at 8:45 a.m. Go to beekeepersofthebitterroot.org for more information and a link to the registration page, or call Loren at 406-544-3515.
Sat, February 15 Cowboy Ball
Round up your friends and join us February 15th for the 9th Annual Cowboy Ball! Shodown will be playing great dance music at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton. They will be joined by Up N Smokin’ who will provide food and libations will be provided by Rainbow Bar. Participate in the feed bucket raffle, live auction, silent auction and calf-pie bingo, all benefitting rodeo grounds improvement projects. The night of fun starts at 5:30 p.m. and goes until midnight. Just $10 gets adults in the door, $5 for students and kids under 5 are free. Reserve a premium table for 8 guests - $250 includes entry and 16 drink tokens. Reserve a regular table for 8 guests - $175 includes entry and 8 drink tokens. Bringing back the ever popular “sweetheart tables,” - reserved tables for 2 including drink tokens for $75. For more info contact fairgrounds@rc.mt.gov or 363-3411.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 7
Looking for the Bitterroot Star? It’s FREE on more than 100 newsstands from Lolo to Conner. Or call us at 777-3928 and we’ll let you know where the closest stand is.
LONE ROCK ADULT EDUCATION WINTER/SPRING 2020 FIRST AID/CPR, AED Instructor: Alice & Ron Brace Class Fee: $10.00 Material Fee: - $20.00 (Paid to Instructor) 8 Hours/4 Classes Thursdays Jan. 30 Feb. 6, 13, 20
6 – 8 pm
This course is an American Safety and Health Institute First Aid/CPR & AED course. You will learn CPR, AED, and First Aid for adults, children and infants. It will provide a hands-on experience with mannequins and AEDs. You will receive a 2-year certification in CPR/First Aid & AED with the completion of this class. The Book, Supplies and Completion Card are included in the material fee.
FIREARM SAFETY, HANDLING, AND OPERATIONS Instructor: Jeremiah DeFord Class Fee: $20.00 8 Hours/4 Classes Thursdays Jan. 30 Feb. 6, 13, 20
6 – 8 pm
This course is to familiarize you with most common firearms and their functions. We will discuss handguns, shotguns, and rifles. The course will cover maintenance, storage, handling, ammunition selection, and accessories. This is a great introductory course for the new firearm owner or as a refresher.
NATURE JOURNALING Instructor: Valerie Bayer Class Fee: $10.00 Material Fee: $10.00 (Paid to Instructor) 5 hours/ 5 Classes Tuesdays Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
7 – 8 pm
Learn skills to enhance your time outdoors. Work with a Master Naturalist to start creating your nature journal which will include where to start, with materials and ideas for content. Nature journaling helps one to see the natural world in greater detail, develop a stronger connection with nature and build knowledge of natural history. This class develops skills of observation in nature by using a journal to document, which can be sketches and/or writing. It is the journalist who decides this.
EXPLORING DRAWING & SKETCHING Instructor: Diana Haker Class Fee: $20.00 12 Hours/ 8 Classes Tuesdays Feb. 11, 18, 25 Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
5 – 6:30 pm
This is a beginning or refresher course in drawing and sketching that will explore different techniques and mediums that are used by artists. Drawing and sketching is the first basic skill that one needs to learn and develop before exploring other art mediums. The course will give you the necessary skills to quickly develop your drawing skills. Supplies you will need to purchase: 1. Drawing pencil set with HB through B6 pencils 2. Vinyl or kneaded eraser 3. Drawing pad of good quality drawing paper, 11” x 14” 4. Ball-point pen, black, medium or fine point 5. Pencil sharpener
EXPLORING COLOR PENCILS – METHODS & MATERIALS Instructor: Diana Haker Class Fee: $20.00 12 Hours/ 8 Classes Thursdays Feb. 13, 20, 27 Mar. 5, 12, 19, 26 Apr. 2
SEWING! SEWING! SEWING! Instructor: Faye McCrumb Class Fee: $20.00 24 hours/12 Classes Tuesdays Jan. 21, 28 Feb. 4, 11, 18, 25 Mar. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 Apr. 2
6:30 – 8:30 pm
From beginner to experienced, you will learn the basics of advanced sewing techniques. Each student works on desired projects at their own speed using their own sewing machine, thread, and materials. You will need to bring your own sewing machine to class.
HOW TO FIT SEWING PATTERNS Instructor: Faye McCrumb Class Fee: $10.00 8 hours/ 4 Classes Thursdays Jan. 23, 30 Feb. 13, 20
6 – 8 pm
In this class, you will learn basic measuring and pattern fitting. Once your pattern is adjusted, you will lay out your pattern, and cut your fabric for the perfect custom fit.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN ELDERBERRY SYRUP Instructor: Kaitlin Droughton Class Fee: $5.00 Material Fee: $10.00 (Paid to Instructor - Covers Ingredient Costs) 1.5 hours/ 1 Class Saturday Feb. 22
11 – 12:30 pm
Come and learn how simple it is to make your own elderberry syrup. Elderberry syrup has been used in herbal traditions for centuries, and today it has been found to promote a balanced immune response. Each person will bring home a small jar of syrup!
MEDITATION WITH THE SENSES Instructor: Martha Piersma Class Fee: $10.00 Material Fee: $5.00 - (Paid to Instructor for Informational Pamphlets) 2 Hours/2 Classes Tuesday & Thursday 6:30 – 7:30 pm Feb. 11, 13 You are familiar with your sense of hearing, sight, touch, taste and smell. These senses are a doorway into states of relaxation and excitement. When we learn to appreciate the day to day experiences of living our lives in the world, the effects of chronic stress are diminished. Meditation is a fun way to enjoy life more fully. You can sit in a chair, on the floor, you can lie down or walk around. For most of us one or more of our senses have become dull and this is a fun way to strengthen the sensory experiences you have every day. Martha is a trained meditation mentor in Instinctive Meditation and is excited to share this fun experience with all. Meditation is not what you think it is. We have been led to believe that meditation is sitting cross-legged on the floor and stopping the flow of thoughts. It’s not! Learn how to meditate in a way that supports you. Fall back in love with life!
5 – 6:30 pm
This is a beginning course exploring the different techniques and methods of producing art with colored pencils. Professional-quality colored pencils were first manufactured as early as 1908 with the German company Faber-Castell. They give the artist the ability to draw but at the same time derive the pleasure of painting. Artists like the use of colored pencils because of the control they offer in their art pieces. The course will give you the necessary skills to use colored pencils in your art creations. Supplies you will need to purchase: 1. Set of 24 student-grade colored pencils 2. Vinyl or kneaded eraser 3. Drawing pad of good quality drawing paper, 11” x 14” 4. Cotton-tipped swabs 5. Pencil sharpener
Adult Education Classes would be a GREAT gift for birthdays, holidays, etc. SENIOR CITIZENS 60+ RECEIVE A 50% DISCOUNT ON ALL CLASS FEES!
BREATHING MEDITATION Instructor: Martha Piersma Class Fee: $10.00 Material Fee: $5.00 - (Paid to Instructor for Informational Pamphlets) 2 Hours/2 Classes Tuesday & Thursday 6:30 – 7:30 pm Mar. 10,12 You breathe approximately 20,000 times a day. It happens automatically. Since your breath is so handy it is often used for meditation. In this course I will share easy to learn methods of becoming interested in breathing. It’s a great doorway into states of relaxation and wonder. It is a great way to manage your stress and to enjoy life more fully. Martha is a trained meditation mentor in Instinctive Meditation and is excited to share this fun experience with all. Meditation is not what you think it is. We have been led to believe that meditation is sitting cross-legged on the floor and stopping the flow of thoughts. It’s not! Learn how to meditate in a way that supports you. Fall back in love with life!
FOR MORE INFORMATION about the courses being offered or to register please call: (406) 210.5129 or email your questions and/or registration to: adulteducation@lonerockschool.org, or you can mail your registration to: Lone Rock Adult Education Attn: Julie Bachman 1112 Three Mile Creek Road Stevensville, MT 59870
ALL CLASSES MUST BE PRE-REGISTERED.
Please do NOT send in payments. Payment is due the first night of class.
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star
Sledding continued
the nation have participated in the DDD, although the majority are from the northwest. Nicki Arndt, the race marshal, wished for something to be known by all: This couldn’t happen without the strong support of an entire community. In addition to the greatly appreciated financial assistance from many of the valley’s businesses and Mike’s amazing culinary creations for the annual mushers’ dinner at Little Blue Joint, the BEARS (Bitterroot Emergency Amateur Radio Service) team has stepped up each year to keep things running smoothly and, more importantly, safely. Should someone ever be injured or end up (heaven forbid) missing, BEARS would save the day. Members even hiked up the surrounding hills last summer to determine the best location for the repeater for quick and most accurate placement prior to this year’s event. Snowmobilers from the Bitterroot Ridge Runners, seemingly displaced from this favorite recreational area for the weekend, were all in and ready to lend a helping hand shuttling workers, fencing, and trail markers. And
Attorneys
while Lost Trail Ski Area keeps this area groomed all season, quite a bit more trail is brought to spec for the derby to accommodate a 23-mile run. Spectators are welcome and appreciated, but please leave your vehicles where Highways 93 and 43 meet – just a minute’s walk away from the oft-crowded Gibbons Pass parking area and starting point for the race. Another great observation point most years is located 8 miles east of Highway 93 on the north side of Highway 43, where the 8-dog teams circle around and return. Due to the openness of this snowy meadow, visibility is spectacular. Outhouses are available, but bring plenty of warm drinks, food, and clothes, and even snowshoes or cross country skis for a truly delightful and memorable experience. Your own canine comrades may appreciate staying home, due to the cold temperatures and being sequestered to your vehicle. For more information on the upcoming January 18th and 19th event, check out bitterrootmushers.org. Now, mush!
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AMISH BENEFIT
DINNER & AUCTION
Friday, February 7th Serving Dinner 5:00 - 8:00pm Auction at 7:00 pm!! All proceeds go to Stevensville Amish School Join us at: ST. MARY’S PARISH FAMILY CENTER 333 Charlos St, Stevensville
Menu - All You Can Eat
Grilled Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Baked Beans, Tossed Salad EVERY ON W ELCOM E Dessert - Pie, Ice Cream No, Ch E! Donat arge, Lemonade, Coffee, Water ions, O n ly
The purpose of the benefit dinner and auction is to raise the funds needed for the local Amish children to attend their Parochial school. All of the auction items are donated with 100% OFF THE PROCEEDS GOING TO THE SCHOOL. Be sure to attend this event to enjoy a delicious meal, and take several useful action items home with you! To Donate Auction Items Call Jake 406-274-8348 • Matt 406-360-0884 • Caleb 406-552-7924 Questions Call David 406-552-3688 • Joe 608-293-4662 • Marcus 406-493-7484
because no CBA had been agreed upon or executed.” An attorney working for the continued county, Kathryn Mahe of Garlingand received formal recognition ton, Lohn and Robinson in Misfrom the Montana Board of Persoula, responded for the county, sonnel Appeals in August 2018. arguing that the county was not They have been involved in ongo- required to pay RDCAA members ing negotiations with the county to the COLA increase because the arrive at some collective bargain- RDCAA and the County were ing agreement since that time. “in active negotiations, including The complaint quotes from negotiations regarding the applicathe County Employees Handbook: bility of the employee handbook, “Ravalli County employees who the entitlements to COLA, and are not subject to a CBA (Collecwages in general.” tive Bargaining Agreement) will The lawsuit goes on to receive the COLA amount set by allege that the decision to withthe BCC.” The attorneys argue hold the COLA increase from the that since they have no agreement attorney’s paychecks was made with the county yet, they should be without proper public notice and treated like every other employee. without notifying the plaintiffs Plaintiffs claim that under that the COLA pay was being the previous county Human withheld. Resources director, they were “On information and belief, awarded COLA increases, until there is no record documenting the this ended in October of 2019, process of the county’s decision… after the Board of County Comnot to pay plaintiff RDCAA memmissioners decided to grant a bers COLA pay increases,” it is 4.88% COLA increase to other alleged in the complaint.” county employees but not the “If the decision to withattorneys. hold the COLA from the plaintiffs It states in the complaint was not made by a quorum of the that they notified the county about BCC, then the Jon/Jane Doe(s) the discrepancy in pay. They who made the decision had no sent a letter of complaint to the authority to make a decision county on October 15 stating that on behalf of the county, not to they were not “subject to a CBA exercise the County government’s executive powers to instruct a County department to withhold the COLA increase from Plaintiffs’ paychecks. Such Decision, the instruction and subsequent action on that instruction were therefore in violation of the law and invalid,” states the complaint. The attorneys request the court to award the unpaid wages and a penalty of 110% of all the unpaid wages; award attorney fees and costs; and issue an order invalidating the County’s decision and action to withhold the paychecks. County Commission Chairman Chris Hoffman said that the commissioners were waiting to hear an assessment by the County Attorney. “But it’s the first time I have ever heard of a county being sued by its own attorney,” said Hoffman.
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Subdivision continued
line for phasing in the development extending the time-line for completion of each phase by three years. A wastewater discharge permit was obtained for the project in 2014. Bitterrooters for Planning (BfP) and the Bitterroot River Protection Association (BRPA), two local non-profit organizations, and the Montana Environmental Information Center challenged the issuance of that permit and in 2016 the permit was revoked by a District Court order. The court found that the Department of Environmental Quality had not examined the potential impacts of the wastewater discharge on the Bitterroot River, located a few thousand feet from the proposed subdivision. Both BfP and BRPA objected to the recent extension request. They argued that the criteria in the county regulations requires the commissioners “to determine whether the applicant has started the subdivision and has been working in good faith to complete the subdivision.” The two organizations questioned whether that requirement had been met, since nothing in the record
Bitterroot Star -- Page 9
Wednesday, January 15, 2020 showed that any activity toward completion of the subdivision had been taken over the last three years until the application for an extension was filed. BfP, which is currently involved in litigation with the county over Morado Mountain Estates, a subdivision in the Eight-Mile area, also contested the extension process in that case. They asked that the legal proceedings in that case be entered as evidence in the current request for extension for the Grantsdale Addition. They also argued that the preliminary plat decision allowing this kind of phasing under the “grandfathered” rules at the time, was in violation of the constitutional right to a clean and healthy environment, and should be required to meet the current standards for phasing as established. There was a lot of discussion about what constitutes “a good faith effort.” A consultant for the developer from Territorial Landworks said he had never encountered the issue of “a good faith effort” in his work. He stated that a lot of work was done inhouse over the time in question and that work was disrupted by the unprecedented revocation of the discharge permit. He said that had he known that some documenta-
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tion of the work was necessary he would have done it. He eventually summed up the activity conducted over that time and added to the record: “July 2016 thru May 2019 – Applicant Assessed Discharge Permit with Attorney, Market Suitability and Development Feasibility Evaluations.” The objectors noted that market conditions were explicitly excluded by the law from being considered in granting subdivision extensions. They insisted that a “good faith effort” at completing the subdivision would certainly have involved scheduling a preapplication meeting with DEQ aimed at obtaining the desired permit. The record, they argue, shows that no action was taken over the last three years to acquire any of the permits needed for completion of the subdivision. Hours were spent in discussion of both the meaning of “a good faith effort” and the questions concerning the “grandfathered” status of the regulations. Deputy County Attorney Royce McCarty told the commissioners that, under current law, the Board of Commissioners cannot place any new mitigation requirements on the subdivision after giving Preliminary Plat approval. In the end, in order to
address the issue and move the extension request forward, the developer offered to meet the new state review requirements and subject each phase of the subdivision to further public review and potential change if it could be shown that new data makes further mitigation necessary. Objectors noted that while the developer’s offer would address the concerns related to the need for public review, it did not address the fact that the developer had not moved forward in good faith. It was noted that this is the only criteria to be considered by the commission in relation to the extension request. It was suggested that the correct way to proceed would be to deny the extension request and have the developer re-submit his subdivision proposal, since he already expressed willingness to allow that review anyway. It was noted that simply to make a re-application for subdivision approval without changing the proposal would cost the developer over $20,000. Objectors noted that it could cost the county money if the “good faith effort” issue was litigated. In the discussion that followed, Commissioner Greg Chilcott said he was hesitant to make
a determination that there was not a good faith effort. He said if the entire time span was considered the developer did act in good faith, “after the discharge permit was revoked, maybe less so.” He said it was a difficult thing to decide since maybe 70% of the time there was good faith action and maybe 30% of the time not so much. Both Commissioner Jeff Burrows and Commissioner Chris Hoffman stated that they had trouble establishing that there had been a good faith effort, since nothing essential to moving the subdivision forward had been done for so long. It was also noted that the rules governing the granting of extensions does not require
any reason for denying it, it only has criteria for approving one. All three of the commissioners eventually reached a finding of fact by consensus that the developer had failed to show a good faith effort to complete the subdivision in a timely manner. Both Hoffman and Burrows stated a reluctance to approve the extension. By denying it, they said, it means a significant new cost to the subdivider. But by approving it, the county could be open to a lawsuit that they both were unsure the county could win. In the end, the board voted 2 to 1 to deny the extension. Chilcott cast the dissenting vote.
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Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Convenient Care
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An adult male is in custody after leading deputies on a short vehicle pursuit in the Florence area on Saturday, January 11. Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton said Deputies were conducting an investigation into a threats call when the suspect, armed with a firearm, left the area in a vehicle. Deputies pursued the vehicle from the Eight Mile area onto Old Hwy 93 in Florence where the suspect stopped, but initially failed to comply with Deputies commands. Deputies were able to negotiate with the suspect and he eventually surrendered. The entire incident lasted just over an hour. Missoula County Sheriff’s Office, Florence Fire Volunteers, and Montana Highway Patrol assisted. The investigation will continue. The suspect, 38 year old Daniel Marc Lieberg was arrested and remanded to the Ravalli County Detention Center for the offenses of Intimidation, Criminal Endangerment, and various traffic offenses. Sheriff Holton thanked the Missoula County Sheriff’s Office for their quick response to assist. Sheriff Holton also said he was thankful that no firearms were discharged and no one was injured during the incident.
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Sports
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Professional Investment Advice By Jean Schurman Sports Editor
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Lady Broncs log two more wins The Hamilton Lady Broncs earned another Southwest A conference win with a 47-28 win over Frenchtown. The two teams were evenly matched but a well placed three point shot as the buzzer sounded to end the first quarter gave Hamilton the momentum for the win. Freshman Tayrn Searle hit the bucket from half court. Hamilton, even though they are young, matched up well against the Frenchtown team and held their scoring to only two points in the final frame of the game. Tough defense by the young Lady Broncs led to many traveling calls on Frenchtown as well. Underneath, freshman Layne Kearns created shots and pulled down rebounds to claim the paint as her own space. Kearns finished with 12 points in the win. Hamilton 47, Frenchtown 28 Frenchtown - Faith Rebich 4, Cassidy Bagnell 5, Claire Bagnell 6, Lauren Demmons 9, Kiya Shelton 4. Hamilton -Taryn Searle 8, Abby Johnson 5, Rylee Brackman 4, Layne Kearns 12, Magdalena Ringer 7, Brynnli Poulsen 3, Emily Wildey 4, Katelyn Dickemore 4. Hamilton picked up a win on the road in Whitefish. The Lady Broncs won, 58-41. Searle
Hamilton freshman Layne Kearns heads for the basket for a layup against Frenchtown. Jean Schurman photo. had 16 points and Kearns and Katelyn Dickemore each added 12 in the win. Hamilton 58, Whitefish 41 Hamilton - Searle 16, Johnson 4, Brackman 3, Walker
Kylie Kovatch of Florence makes a shot against Arlee. Jean Schurman photo.
3, Kearns 12, Ringer 2, Paulson 2, Wildey 4, Dickamore 12. Whitefish - Jadi Walburn 12, Taylor Means 3, Payton Kastella 5, Mikenna Ellis 7, Alivia Ingold 2, Gracie Smyley 12. The Corvallis Blue Devils went cold in the third quarter and fell to the Lady Broncs of Frenchtown, 47-36. Corvallis scored only two points in the third quarter while Frenchtown had 15. Madeline Gilder scored 15 points to lead Corvallis. Frenchtown 47, Corvallis 36 Corvallis - Madeline Gilder 15, Isabel Evans 10, Hannah Hutchison 3, Brooke Powell 3, Jenna Jordan 3. Frenchtown - Lauren Demmons 16, Claire Bagnell 14, Faith Rebich 8, Kiya Shelton 8, Cassidy Bagnell 1. Florence defeated Arlee, 66-32, in a run away on Saturday night. The Lady Falcons scored 30 points in the second quarter alone with Kasidy Yeoman scoring nine of her 20 points in that quarter. The Lady Falcons relied upon a strong, stifling defense to create turnovers and then turned those into points. Yeoman led the scoring with 20 points.
Florence 66, Arlee 32 Florence - Kolbi Wood 2, Emma Stensrud 10, Kylie Kovatch 9, Kasidy Yeoman 20, Josie Lewis 10, Kelsen Zahn 2, Trista Williams 13. Arlee - Xaria Jacobson 1, Jerny Crawford 3, Raven Parson 2, Mikirah Fisher 2, Princess Bolen 5, Peyten Lammerding 11, Halle Adams 8. Drummond dropped Darby, 59-34. The Lady Tigers got off to a slow beginning and were unable to make up the 16 point difference at the end of the first quarter. Gracie Lang led Darby with nine points. Drummond 59, Darby 34 Drummond - Rylee Hilmo 12, Sydney Phillips 17, Deana Parke 9, Jessie Struna 7, Hannah Bradshaw 2, Lizzy Perry 4, Holly Hauptman 8 Darby - Annie Rennaker 4, Madison Conner 1, Lyxie Buhler 6, America Baugus 3, Amber Anderson 4, Gracie Lang 9, Kimber Schlapman 1, M. Hawkinson 4, S. Shull 2. Victor fell to Clark Fork, 52-18. Ashley Buchanan, Maddie Bahr, Bella Scichilone and Jayden Scheffer each had four points. Virginia Brown added two more.
Hamilton wins McChesney Memorial tourney For years, Mike McChesney was always at the sidelines or on the Matt at almost any wrestling tournament in the valley and beyond. McChesney was a wrestling coach at Florence for a while and then moved on to become a wrestling official. He was always encouraging the wrestlers and was their biggest fan. He passed away in August of 2018 but the Florence wrestling community keeps his memory alive. A five team tournament was held on Saturday in Florence in conjunction with senior day. Hamilton/Darby won the event while Florence was second. On Friday night, Hamilton/Darby battled Stevensville in a duo in Stevensville. Hamilton won three of the four matches, all by pin. Stevensville’s Sekhaia Wehr won the 182 pound class with a pin over Kale Wanner with 25 seconds remaining in the first period. Bridger Williams pinned Dylan James at 152, Jose Vaca pinned Tristan Reil at 160, and Cody Fisher pinned Erik Truebgar at 182 pounds. Mike McChesney Memorial Tournament
Team scores: Hamilton/ Darby 128, Florence 73, Plains/ Hot Springs 66, Missoula Hellgate 62, Bigfork 51. 103-1st Place: Andrew Carmody of Hamilton/Darby; Championship round robin: Andrew Carmody (HD) p. Keith Zander (MH), :23; Carmody p.
Zander, 1:21. 113-1st Place: Jesse Anson of Hamilton/Darby; 2nd Place: Hannah Hurst of Hamilton/Darby; 3rd Place: Jordan Tack of Missoula Hellgate; 4th Place: Henry Sawfer of Missoula Hellgate. Championship: Anson p. Hurst, 1:48.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 11
120: 3rd Place: Seth Allen of Hamilton/Darby; 4th Place: Logan Bratch of Hamilton/Darby 132-1st Place: Adyn Meinzen of Florence; 2nd Place: Deegan Martin of Hamilton/ Darby; Championship: Meinzen See WRESTLING, page 12
Hamilton’s Jose Vaca goes for the pin against Stevensville’s Tristan Reil in a duel between the two schools. Jean Schurman photo.
1711 North First Street • Hamilton, MT 59840
Eli Taylor of Hamilton tries to stop a Frenchtown Bronc from making a basket. Jean Schurman photo.
Hamilton rebounds with a pair of wins The Hamilton Broncs came back from a loss a week ago to Butte Central to defeat Frenchtown in Southwest A conference action on Thursday, and Whitefish on Saturday. After trailing in the first quarter, Carson Rostad stepped up and sank six points to power Hamilton ahead in the second quarter while the entire team ramped up their rebounding. “I was really proud of our composure, the boys played really hard all game. I thought we stuck together and did a lot of things right tonight. We’re inexperienced as we’re going into the year and we’re just learning as we go,” said Hamilton coach Travis Blome. Hamilton’s big man in the paint, Tyler Burrows, made a difference rebounding and kept the ball alive for the Broncs. He finished with a game high 14 points. On the perimeter, the Broncs had several different players step up and run the plays. Freshman Eli Taylor did a good job of handling the pressure at the point but did get into foul trouble late in the game. Hamilton held off a surge in the third quarter by Frenchtown but a a press breaker offense by Hamilton changed the momentum and the lead was in Hamilton’s pocket the rest of the game. Hamilton 54, Frenchtown 46 Hamilton - Carson Rostad 11, Austin Drake 12, Tyson Rostad 4, Trey Searle 13, Tyler Burrows 14. Frenchtown - Baker 9, Finley 20, Rugg 4, Z. Baker 13. Hamilton defeated Whitefish in non conference action, 51-41. No further information was available. Frenchtown defeated Hamilton, 67-46, on Saturday. The Broncs jumped out to a 14 point lead in the first quarter and made the Blue Devils play catch up the rest of the game. Corvallis had 18 points from Caleb Warnken but the Broncs shut down the middle and inside. Frenchtown 67, Corvallis 46 Corvallis - Caleb Warnken 18, Tanner Jessop 8, Jacob Loran 6, Luke Wolsky 6, Jaymark Liedle 2, Konner Provence 2, Cole Trexler 2, Mitch Spinetta 2. Frenchtown - Brandon
Finley 10, Devin Shelton 10, Hank Rugg 8, Zack Baker 8, Cade Baker 7, Ben Larson 7, Carson Shepard 7, Mason Pyron 6, Kaiden Romney 2, Tel Arthur 2. Dillon topped Stevensville, 48-33, on Saturday. A strong first half by the Beavers had the ‘Jackets trying to play catch up the rest of the game. Kellen Beller led the Yellowjackets with 15 points. Ethan Shobe had six, Carlos Morales five and Sean Craft three points in the loss. Florence was host to the Arlee Warriors on Saturday. Arlee has moved up to Class B in basketball this year so this was a Western B divisional game. The Falcons relied upon long range shooting to propel them to a 74-63 win. JP Briney had five treys enroute to dropping in a game high 27 points. Levi Posey added 17 more points and had four treys. Florence 74, Arlee 63. Arlee - Levi Fullerton 10, Micah Johnson 3, Cody Tanner 12, Amare Vandenberg 10, Zach Running Crane 2, Billy Fisher 11, Tapit Haynes 13, Dallas Swab 2. Florence - Creagon Keller 4, Eli Pederson 3, JP Briney 27, Blake Shoupe 10, Caden Zaluski 2, Beau Neal 9, Levi Posey 17, Caleb Kroll 2. Darby ran over Drummond, 68-39, in Class C action. The Tigers held Drummond to only four points in the first quarter while scoring 24 themselves enroute to the win. Jordan Anderson pumped in 23 points and Gabe Smith added 18. Darby 68, Drummond 39 Darby - Jordan Anderson 23, Gabe Smith 18, Nelson Smith 8, Preston Smith 7, Tyler Davis 5, Christian Humphrey 3, Jackson Hundley 2, Cullen Duggan 2. Earlier in the week, the Tigers defeated Valley Christian, 65-52. Nelson Smith had 28 points and Gabe Smith added 17 in the win. Victor lost to Clark Fork, 46-26. The Pirates had a difficult time in the first half but after an adjustment at halftime by the team, they gave Clark Fork a hard time in the second half. Skyler Webberson led the Pirates with eight points.
Page 12--Bitterroot Star
The midwinter angler Currently there is a light dusting of snow on the valley floor that is melting off as I write. This is not a normal January. The ice shelves I’d expect to see along the banks of the Bitterroot are simply not there; in places I’d expect the river to be frozen over. Not this year. If I went out today I’d expect to find the pleasant crunch of fresh snow underfoot,
Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan little or no slippery riverside ice to contend with, and the chance to enjoy a pristine afternoon on the river. The day is warming up – there’d be no ice forming in my guides. As winter fishing goes, I’ve endured far worse. I’d be layered up, wearing fingerless mitts, a fullbrimmed waxwear hat to ward off any sudden snow and to keep peripheral glare at a minimum, and my darkest pair of polarized and UV protected shades. That latter item is important: your eyes take a double whammy when you’re surrounded by the perpetual glare of snow reflecting an unshaded riverbank. So is sunscreen. Ask any inveterate skier. I’d be wearing my studded wading boots instead of the felts; even while it’s melting off snow has a nasty way of accumulating and compressing into ice on the bottom of a felt-soled wading boot. In addition to the water bottle I’d bring an insulated bottle of hot green tea and a pocketful of dried fruit or trail mix and maybe some jerkey, even on a short outing. Carbs are units of heat and I’ve learned to stay warm from the inside out. And the warm screw-off cup on the insulated bottle I’m thinking of feels real nice between chilled fingers, and the warm liquid is pleasant against cold lips. And I’d guzzle real good before I hit a river trail. It’s too easy to get dehydrated while it’s cold. The fishing Properly geared up, I’d take my fly rod for a walk. I might even fish. At least I’d go
out with that mindset. There’s something to what Gordon Lightfoot describes as “the quietude of winter” in one of his songs. And there’s no way to fully experience it except to get out into it, get to a place where you’re totally surrounded by it, where the incessant background noises of civilization are muted by the stillness of fresh snow and motionless air. I want to immerse myself in that, fully enjoy and exhilarate in that, when I fish in winter. If I’m simply enduring it I’ve missed the mark, and it begins with my preparation and expectations. I might bring one of two light, long fly rods; one is nineand-a-half feet, the other a full ten. Other guys I know fish longer spey rods or purpose-built elevenfoot three-weight nymphing rods; that’s up to them and I don’t have rods like theirs. I’ll fish what I have and make do. For flies I’ll tie up some winter midge patterns in sizes down to #22. Basic black, basic red, nd basic tan will get me by. I’ll tie those flies on short-shanked #18 or #20 dry fly hooks, and make the flies themselves just as tiny as I please. If that leaves a seemingly large piece of hook extending back from the tied fly, so be it. The trout don’t seem to care. It’s hard to find flies like that on the market. I’ve tied custom orders for the diehards or those bold enough or curious enough to try it; it’s either that or tie your own. There simply isn’t the demand for them. Not that many people get that serious about winter midge fishing. Too bad – they’re missing out. Winter midge fishers have undoubtedly seen the trout get persnickety about fly size. If you see them on something a wee bit tinier than what you’re offering, it can be exasperating. If you’re set to go with the next smaller sized fly, it can be exhilarating. Long, fine tippets are a must. From 5X down I like to carry halfsizes down to 7X. You can usually get away with a size over what you’d fish for dries when you’re fishing wet, and you can accentuate the free movement of the underwater fly by tying it into a Duncan loop instead of a standard clinch knot. If all that sounds like a turnoff while you’re thinking about it, don’t let it be. It all comes together on the river. It’s easier than it seems. Leader-in-hand A few years ago Mike Hansen, Jim Cline, and I had the pleasure of fishing with a delightful group of traveling anglers we have referred to since as “the Brits.”
Crossword Puzzle
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
To say we enjoyed a cultural exchange would be an understatement. We learned from each other. A revelation for me was what they described as “leaderin-hand” fishing. The technique, where it’s practical, is deadly. The requirements, or ideal conditions, consist of a windless day and calm water where trout can be easily spooked. That can occur midsummer or the dead of
DOWN 1. Ammunition 2. Spring 3. Part 4. European city 5. Expression of surprise 6. Pariah 7. Shade of pink 8. Behind 10. Glides across the ice 14. Ripen 17. Explodes 18. No longer wild 19. Rome’s country 20. “I dream of __” 23. Sleep 24. Commune 25. Sensitive 27. Cooky
Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor Matt Anderson has extended the deadline for public comments on a proposed Forest Plan Amendment for Elk Habitat Objectives. The three week extension is to allow the public additional time to provide information or relevant literature they wish to have considered. Comments are now due by February 10, 2020. The Forest is conducting the evaluation in coordination with Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) to consider using more recent scientific literature and updated metrics for elk standards than was available 32-years ago, when the Forest Plan was adopted. FWP has also recently
Wrestling continued winter. It goes like this: Wrap your fly line evenly and tight on your reel. Then spool about thirty to forty feet of, say, 4X tippet onto the center of the line. The reel goes onto a light-line fly rod, length suitable for the water being fished. The cast is a delicate, short distance lob., sometimes a gentle flick. The terminal end of this basic outfit can be whatever the situation demands. I watched one of the Brits fish a small English soft hackle pattern, a #22 Waterhen Bloa, at the end of an added six feet of 6X tippet material. He had some sort of small white fiber tied into the leader knot for an indicator. The fly got deeper than one would expect on a crossstream cast. He followed the fly downstream with his rod tip and struck gently at the slightest hint of movement. He took plenty of fish when the usual midsummer dredging with big nymphs or dry-dropper fishing failed miserably. The trout see smaller foodforms drifting past them all the time, and tend to take these small flies without hesitation. The method is ideal for winter midge fishing. It’s fun to learn, and fun when you hook up. Big fish eat little bugs in the winter. You might be surprised at your results. Author and flytyer Chuck Stranahan can be reached at chuck@chuck-stranahan.com or visit his fly shop at 109 E. Main in Hamilton.
Crossword Answers on page 13 Obituary Information There is no charge for publishing death notices in the Bitterroot Star. The cost for publishing obituaries in the Star is $20 which includes a photo. The best way to submit obituaries and photos is by email to: editor@bitterrootstar.com. For more information contact Victoria at 777-3928.
ACROSS 1. Astringent 5. __ matter 9. Restaurant listing 10. Package 11. Foremost 12. Destroyed 13. Type of American Express card 15. Evening 16. Professional food provider and server 18. Firmer 21. Snacked 22. Takes by force 26. Mansion 28. Brand of coffee alternative 29. Omit 30. Tyrant 31. Imbued 32. Eye infection
BNF extends deadline for comments on elk habitat objectives
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p. Martin 1:09. 145- 4th: Colten Rice of Florence 152-1st Place: Bridger Williams of Hamilton/Darby; 2nd: Archie Brevik of Bigfork; Championship: Williams p. Brevik, 2:56. 160-1st Place: Jesse Uski of Plains/Hot Springs; 2nd: Dallas Blair of Florence; 3rd: Jose Vaca of Hamilton/Darby Round Robin: Blair p. Vaca, 1:55; Uski p. Vaca, 2:27; Uski p. Blair, 3:52. 170-1st Place: Cody Fisher of Hamilton/Darby; 2nd: Aidan Tollefson of Florence; 3rd: Sean Larson of Florence; 4th: Colton Frost of Hamilton/Darby. Championship: Fisher p. Tollefson, :48. 182-1st Place: Derrick Saltzman of Hamilton/Darby; 2nd: Jared Weaver of Florence; 3rd: Kaiden Church of Florence. Round robin: Saltzman p. Church, 1:44; Weaver p. Church, 1:19; Saltzman p. Weaver, 1:09. 205-1st Place: Luke Maki of Florence; 2nd: Cadogan Wheat of Hamilton/Darby; 3rd: Brock Jones of Hamilton/Darby; 4th: Steven Yother of Plains/Hot Springs. Championship: Maki p. Wheat, 3:01. HWT-1st Place: Reece Buchanen of Hamilton/Darby; 2nd: O’Maste Foster of Florence. Round robin: Buchanen p. Foster, 1:28; Foster dec. Buchanen, 7-5 on OT; Buchanen p. Foster, :51.
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ments to: Bitterroot National Forest, Attn: Forest Plan Amendment,1801 N. 1st Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. Comments should include: 1) name, address, phone number, and organization represented, if any; 2) specific facts and supporting information for the responsible official to consider. Electronic comments must be submitted via the project comment page: https://cara.ecosystem-management.org/Public// CommentInput?Project=57302 For additional information contact Justin Martens, Wildlife Biologist at 406-821-1213 or Jeff Shearer, Project Manager at 406375-2608.
Need Help in the North Valley area? -- Stranded, Accident, Locked out or Flat Tire? -- Call us!
998 N. First Hamilton Mt 363-4050
• Prompt • Courteous • Professional
“Boat Buying Event of the Year” At the Lewis & Clark Fairgrounds, Helena, MT. January 24-26, 2020. The Montana Boat Show’s $3 admission charge gives you a chance at over $1,500 in door prizes! Children under 12 enter free. For info call (406) 443-6400 or 266-5700. Mark Your 2020 Calendar! www.mtboatshow.com
$
Home Fix-up Headquarters
White Glove
CLEANING
Residential • Office Real Estate Pre-Sale Your Quality Cleaning Service
381-0585
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777-3928 Western Building Center
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The perfect gift - in any amount! 3956 Highway 93 North, Stevensville
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concluded several research projects on elk distribution and seasonal movements within the Bitterroot Valley. The evaluation of current forest plan standards for elk is an opportune time to incorporate these research results. To learn more about the need to conduct a Forest Plan amendment for Elk Habitat Objectives visit https://www.fs.usda. gov/project/?project=57302 Public comments specific to this review are valuable in helping the Forest Service and Montana FWP identify concerns, develop alternatives, and refine the analysis to focus on issues. If you wish to comment in writing, address your com-
777-1452
APPLIANCES
$ave Money Repair
Don’t Replace Your Reliable Appliances
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363-3592
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JOHNSON APPLIANCE SERVICE
www.clearwatersystems.com
Parts & Service • 421 S. 1st • Hamilton
Hamilton – 406-363-1782 Missoula – 406-728-6400
Family operated in the Bitterroot Valley for 40 years
WINDOW CLEANING
CARPET CLEANING
Verticals • Wood Blinds • Miniblinds Shades • Pleated • Cellular • Duette® We Beat Ads Claiming 50%-60%-70% off! FREE Measuring, Estimates & Installation Save An Extra $20 on your purchase of $200 or more! 549-2882 • Toll Free 1-888-549-2882
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777-3928
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Wednesday, January 15, 2020
777-3928 Deadline Monday
12 noon for Wednesday
SALES/ AUCTIONS
50 Years of Service
Elaine’s Engraving
& Rubber Stamps
363-5193
SUN, JAN 19TH 9:30AM
RLP Auction Barn - 3.5 Miles North of Hamilton, MT on Hwy 93 PREVIEW: SAT, JAN 18TH NOON-5PM Cowboy Collectibles, Native American, Americana, Guns, Gold, Tack & Much Much MORE! This auction is both Live & Online. Approx 310 lots will be auctioned off through icollector beginning at 11am. You may bid in house or online. RLP AUCTIONS 406-369-2640 www.rlpauctions.net
FINALLY! CABIN FEVER ANTIQUES FAIR!!! Helena Civic Center January 12th-13th. Opens 10am. $5.00 for weekend. Dealers-5 states, furniture, lighting, art, jewelry, primitive, repurposed. Don’t miss it! THE BOAT SHOW! “Boat Buying Event of the Year” at the Lewis & Clark Fairgrounds, Helena, MT. January 24th-26th, 2020 . The Montana Boat Show’s $3 admission charge gives you a chance at over $1,500 in door prizes! Children under 12 enter free. For info call (406)443-6400 or 266-5700. Mark Your 2020 Calendar! www.mtboatshow.com
FARM & GARDEN
WINTER SQUASH, CABBAGE, POTATOES, BEETS AND CARROTS. Pro-Mix potting soil. Grain-fed beef and pork and eggs. Moeller’s Nursery, 946 Eastside Hwy, Corvalis. Open daily. 9613389. BAGGED WHOLE-GRAIN livestock feed: wheat, oats, barley. Cracked 3-Way (barley, oats, wheat), new crop hay. GRAIN-FED LOCKER BEEF. Call Russ, 3601125 or 961-3528. FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured free range chickens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, Stevensville. Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb), also steaks!. Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).
BUILDINGS AUTHENTIC TIMBER FRAMED BARNS. Residential and Commercial Timber Packages. Full Service Design - Build Since 1990, (406) 581 3014 brett@bitterrootgroup.com, www.bitterroottimberframes.com
FOR SALE LIGHT DUTY (1195 lb) trailer. 4’x8’ bed, $225. Free moving
123 S. 5TH Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton boxes. 605-415-9882 hoggryder@ outlook.com
HELP WANTED
COOK NEEDED FOR DINNER SERVICE two Wednessday nights a month. Starting wage $10/hr. Position with the Elks Lodge in Hamilton. To apply please call Larry at 239-6356 or Linda at 550-2663. HOME CARE SERVICES is hiring caregivers and CNAs. Flexible schedule, competitive pay. Apply at 925 N. First Street in Hamilton. Call 375-8637.
RENTALS ROOM FOR RENT - Victor area. Room & bath. No pets. 6426279.
REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE– NORTHWEST MONTANA – Company owned. Small and large acre parcels. Private. Trees and meadows. National Forest boundaries. Tungstenholdings.com (406) 293-3714.
LEGAL NOTICES
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF PAMELA SHULER, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-02 Dept. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Chelsey Porter, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 9th day of January, 2020 /s/ Chelsey Porter, Personal Representative 823 Discovery Way, Missoula, MT 59802 BS 1-15, 1-22, 1-29-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Joseph Meek Godfrey, Joseph Meek Godfrey, Petitioner
20-Word Personal $8.50 20-Word Commercial $10.50 Each Add’l Word - 20¢ Includes Posting to Web Page
Cause No. DV-19-458/3 Dept. No.: 1 Howard F. Recht NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Joseph Meek Godfrey to Joseph Meek Tacker. The hearing will be on February 19, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: December 13, 2019. /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Mary Fliss, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 1-8, 1-15, 1-22, 1-29-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Lori Ann Webster, Lori Ann Webster, Petitioner Cause No. DV-19-457/3 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Lori Ann Webster to Lori Ann Bruno. The hearing will be on January 30, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: December 12, 2019. /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By:Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 12-25-19, 1-1, 1-8, 1-15-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Joanne Saylor Warren, Joanne Saylor Warren, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-10/3 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Joanne Saylor Warren to Joanne Williams Saylor. The hearing will be on February 27, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: January 113, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy
Clerk of Court. BS 1-15, 1-22, 1-29, 2-5-20. MNAXLP PUBLIC NOTICE The TAC will meet on Tuesday, January 21, 2020 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at 310 Old Corvallis Road. For more information contact Sharna Paddock, Transit Coordinator, BitterRoot Bus, 310 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton, MT 59840, 406-363-7484 or Spaddock@ravalliccoa.org or www. ravalliccoa.org. BS 1-8, 1-15-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF PUBLIC SALE Notice is hereby given to the person hereinafter named and to whom it may concern. For enforcement of a lien in the amount of $425, Venture West Storage, LLC, located at 1008 Hwy 93 N. Victor, MT, 59875, will sell the contents of storage unit D-24, occupied by Robert Rutledge, at auction to the highest bidder. Auction will be held at Venture West Storage, unit D-24 on Thursday, January 23, 2020 at 9:30 a.m. BS 1-15-20. MNAXLP NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC 2020 Stevensville Town Council meetings will be held on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month. All meetings will be held at 7:00 pm unless published otherwise. Deadline for all agenda items is 12:00 pm on the Wednesday the week prior to the Thursday meeting Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 1-15, 1-22-20. MNAXLP
CIL
PUBLIC NOTICE STEVENSVILLE TOWN COUN-
PUBLIC HEARING Thursday, January 23rd, 2020 6:30 p.m. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Council of the Town of Stevensville will hold a public hearing at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, January 23rd , 2020 at Town Council Chambers, 206 Buck Street, Stevensville, Montana, for the purpose of taking public comment on: Ordinance No. 165 – An Ordinance Updating Building and Technical Codes for the Town of the Stevensville, Montana Municipal Code All interested persons will be given the opportunity to ask questions
and to express their opinions regarding the proposed Ordinance. Comments may be given orally at the hearing, emailed to clerk@ townofstevensville.com or submitted in writing mailed to Town Clerk, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 before 3:00 pm January 23rd , 2020. Questions, comments or more information may
be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271. Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 1-15, 1-22-20. MNAXLP
The
Crossword Solution
Frame Shop Inspired and precise custom picture framing since 1995 Call for appointment:
363.6684
43 N E W S PA P E R
snow removal bobcat work small concrete work fencing
• • • •
garages garage doors carports decks
JIM WERST • 406-381-7337 • HAMILTON
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
YOU can help stop Medicare fraud!
PROTECT: Don’t give out your personal DETECT: REPORT:
information.
Read all your medical statements If you suspect that you have been a target of any type of abuse, report it to Montana SMP!
For the SMP near you, contact:
ADVERTISING
1-800-551-3191
Montana SMP is a program coordinated by Missoula Aging Services and partnered with local Area Agencies on Aging. This project was supported, in part by grant number 90MP0233, from the U.S. Administration for Community Living, Department of Health and Human Services, Washington, D.C. 20201. Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions. Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration for Community Living policy.
BITTERROOT STAR
BUSINESS DIRECTORY COUNSELING Positive Goal Directed Cognitive Behavioral Counseling
Hank Winters, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Counselor Serving the Bitterroot since 1980 Most insurance plans accepted
363-3882 • 217 N. 3rd, Hamilton
OFFICE SPACE
Professional OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE RCEDA Business Center Hamilton 406.375-9416 www.rceda.org
FINANCIAL
PERSONNEL
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WINDOWCOVERINGS COVERINGS WINDOW
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A2Z
186 S. 3rdSt • Hamilton • 363-0723 842 S. 1 St., Hamilton - 363-0723 215 Main • 777-1662 115 W. 3rd, St Ste.• Stevensville 106, Stevensville - 777-1662
BANKING
Located at the Canyons Athletic Club
360-5420
FUNERAL HOME
Whitesitt Funeral Home 314 Church
Stevensville
777-5711
Bill & Helen Kropp Serving the Bitterroot Since 1902
Wednesday, January 15, 2020
Page 14--Bitterroot Star
The Bitterroot Star Weather Summary Bitterroot Seven Day Forecast
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Mostly Cloudy
Mostly Cloudy
Mostly Cloudy
Isolated Snow
Mostly Cloudy
Cloudy
Mostly Cloudy
31 / 18
25 / 16
27 / 18
33 / 24
36 / 27
30 / 21
28 / 23
Local UV Index
Detailed Local Forecast
0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High, 11+: Extreme Exposure
Today we will see mostly cloudy skies with a slight chance of isolated snow, high temperature of 31°, humidity of 57%. Light winds. The record high temperature for today is 50° set in 1974. Expect mostly cloudy skies tonight with a slight chance of isolated snow, overnight low of 18°. Light winds. The record low for tonight is -12° set in 2017. Thursday, skies will be mostly cloudy with a slight chance of isolated snow, high temperature of 25°, humidity of 71%. Light winds.
Weather Trivia
Peak Fishing/Hunting Times This Week
0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+
Which type of produces lightning?
cloud
?
Day Wed Thu Fri Sat
Answer: Cumulonimbus.
Weather History
Peak Times AM PM 3:58-5:58 4:24-6:24 4:49-6:49 5:14-7:14 5:38-7:38 6:03-8:03 6:28-8:28 6:54-8:54
Day Sun Mon Tue
FEBRUARY IS DENTAL MONTH!
Peak Times AM PM 7:20-9:20 7:46-9:46 8:12-10:12 8:39-10:39 9:06-11:06 9:33-11:33
15% OFF BASE DENTAL FREE DENTAL EXAMS
www.WhatsOurWeather.com
BOOKING NOW!
Sun/Moon Chart This Week
Jan. 15, 1990 - While one Pacific storm crossed the central Rockies, another approached the West Coast. The northern mountains of Utah were buried under 17 to 35 inches of snow while the mountains of southern Utah received another 12 to 16 inches.
Day Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue
Last 1/17
New 1/24
Sunrise 8:17 a.m. 8:16 a.m. 8:16 a.m. 8:15 a.m. 8:14 a.m. 8:14 a.m. 8:13 a.m.
Sunset 5:14 p.m. 5:15 p.m. 5:16 p.m. 5:18 p.m. 5:19 p.m. 5:21 p.m. 5:22 p.m.
Moonrise 11:31 p.m. Prev Day 12:47 a.m. 2:02 a.m. 3:16 a.m. 4:28 a.m. 5:37 a.m.
Moonset 11:28 a.m. 11:53 a.m. 12:18 p.m. 12:45 p.m. 1:15 p.m. 1:49 p.m. 2:31 p.m.
406.777.3844
First 2/1
Full 2/9
WWW.BURNTFORKVET.COM 3682 EASTSIDE HWY, STEVENSVILLE
Last Week's Almanac & Growing Degree Days
Jan. 16, 1987 - A winter storm produced a total of 61 inches of snow at Rye, Colo. and wind gusts to 100 mph in Utah. The storm then spread heavy snow from the Texas panhandle to Indiana. Tulia, Texas received 16 inches of snow.
Date 1/6 1/7 1/8 1/9 1/10 1/11 1/12
High 38 44 37 32 30 36 37
Low 29 30 30 23 16 25 31
Normals 32/17 32/17 32/17 32/17 32/18 33/18 33/18
Precip 0.00" 0.00" 0.02" 0.00" 0.06" 0.00" 0.00"
Farmer's Growing Degree Days Date Degree Days Date Degree Days 1/6 0 1/10 0 1/7 0 1/11 0 1/8 0 1/12 0 1/9 0 Growing degree days are calculated by taking the average temperature for the day and subtracting the base temperature (50 degrees) from the average to assess how many growing days are attained.
Locally Owned and Operated!
Treat Yourself
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Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Store are locally owned & operated. Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Store are locally owned & operated.
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51581 Columbia River Hwy
Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Stores are locally owned & operated.
Tune-Up Custom Refacing et Redooring New Cabinets
Scappoose
503.543.6141
Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Store are locally owned & operated.
Winter Tire Clearance Sale!* * Limited to Winter Tires on hand and at these two locations
See stores for more details
DID YOU KNOW WE ARE MORE THAN JUST A TIRE STORE? Full Service Oil Change - Home of the buy 3 get one free! Transmission Service • Cooling System Service Brake Fluid Service • Filter Replacements • Tire Alignment 46 Stevensville Cutoff Road West . Stevensville, MT . 777-0400 500 North 1st Street . Hamilton, MT . 363-2995