Bitterroot Star - November 20, 2024

Ellison Ranch adds protection to Burnt Fork

The Ellison family of Stevensville has pursued the protection of their family ranch through a conservation easement in partnership with the Bitter Root Land Trust, honoring a legacy in Bitterroot agriculture that spans over six decades.

Situated northeast of downtown Stevensville, the new Ellison Ranch conservation easement adds another 344 acres in the Burnt Fork neighborhood that will be protected forever thanks to the conservation easement agreement. The ranch is a proximal expansion of the more than 7,000 acres of contiguous private conservation easements completed by local landowners in partnership with BRLT and other land trusts in the Burnt Fork - named after Burnt Fork Creek which starts in the Sapphire Mountains and flows through the neighborhood. The area has been used primarily for agriculture since the homesteading days.

“The Ellison Ranch features an amazing blend of very productive agricultural ground, exceptional water resources, and beautiful wildlife habitat,” says Melissa Odell, BRLT Lands Director. “The location couldn’t be better - close to Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, other neighboring conserved private lands, and along Eastside Highway. This ranch really contributes a critical piece of irreplaceable open space to the Burnt Fork neighborhood that is protected forever. The Ellison family’s commitment to preserving this property for future generations is a gift to our community.”

Purchased by A.C. and Jean Ellison in 1960, the ranch has historically farmed hay and corn for silage to support a cow/calf operation. Bisected by North Burnt Fork Creek, the ranch has always been, and continues to be, critical habitat for wildlife including whitetail and mule deer, turkeys, great blue herons, a variety of waterfowl, greathorned owls, sandhill cranes, and many raptor species. A streamside restoration project along North Burnt Fork Creek allowed the family to fence both sides of the creek, protecting riparian vegetation and wildlife habitat to prevent streambank erosion from cattle.

courtesy BRLT.

there are permanent restrictions to the title of the property that limit future development opportunities on the land. The ranch will remain private property, and the conservation easement will remain with

supports, a Montana lifestyle for future owners of the ranch, and continuation of the valley’s ongoing history in livestock and agriculture,” says Dan Ellison. “We are overjoyed that with the help of the Land Trust

we were able to get this easement over the goal line and get it done.”

The project was made possible thanks in part to funding received from the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service’s (NRCS) Agricultural Land Easement (ALE) program and the Ravalli County Open Lands Bond Program. With bond dollars passed by Ravalli County voters in 2022, the Open Lands Bond Program features an approval process that includes a comprehensive 5 phase review by the Ravalli County Open Lands Bond Board, County staff, and the Board of County Commissioners.

“I’m delighted that our County Commission was supportive of our project, that the people of Ravalli County passed the Open Lands Bond, and to the members of the Open Lands Bond Board for being so supportive of the effort,” says Dan. “We hope that in the future, a young couple will be able to live on the ranch and start a family built around ranching values – hopefully another generation that’s attracted to the Montana lifestyle of agriculture, livestock and open space that would continue to use and care for the ranch as it’s been used for decades.”

“The decision of landowners like the Ellisons to protect open space for future generations plays a critical role in keeping our valley’s ranching legacy alive,” says Lauren Rennaker, BRLT Executive Director. “We are incredibly grateful for their vision to protect local agriculture in the Bitterroot Valley, and the sentiment will only grow with the generations after us. The foresight of the Ellisons and other landowners who conserve their land will surely be known, valued, and much appreciated by Bitterrooters long after us.”

“The decision of landowners like the Ellisons to protect open space for future generations plays a critical role in keeping our valley’s ranching legacy alive.”

- Lauren Rennaker, BRLT

Executive Director

the land in perpetuity even through change of ownership. Like a majority of privately owned conserved lands across the valley protected by private landowners, the ranch is not open to the public to access.

Mike Ellison, son of A.C. and Jean, reflects on the need to expand protected lands in the Bitterroot Valley for wildlife and agriculture.

“The easement combines protection for the wildlife the ranchland

NOVEMBER SENIOR PET MONTH

NOVEMBER IS SENIOR PET MONTH

Do you have a crèche that is special to you? You are welcome to display it in the

“Our family has lived in the Bitterroot for 70 years and has seen dramatic changes – not all of which are for the better,” said Mike. “As teenagers we could spend a day fishing on the Bitterroot River and not see another person. The project in 2011 to protect North Burnt Fork Creek was a small, but important step for wildlife conservation. Now it’s a visible reminder of the value of open space in the valley, and will give future generations a glimpse of what life was once like in this part of the last, best place.” With a conservation easement now in place,

Health Care Special for your Dog or Cat aged 7 years+

Health Care Special for your Dog or Cat aged 7 years+

Save 10% on a complete senior physical & bloodwork

Save 10% on a complete senior physical & blood work

Save 15% on physical, bloodwork & radiograph

Save 15% on physical, bloodwork & radiograph

We have a new therapeutic laser! Aids healing of back pain, arthritis, strained muscles/ligaments, oral infammation and many other issues.

Save 20% on physical, bloodwork, radiograph & abdominal ultrasound Call the clinic 406-961-3077 to schedule an appointment for your pet

Call the clinic 961-3077 to schedule an appointment for your pet

M-F 8am-5:30pm

Save 20% on physical, bloodwork, radiograph & abdominal ultrasound M-F 8am-5:30pm We now ofer dentaldigital X-rays!

Donna M. Lewis, DVM 1039 Main Street • Corvallis

You may include a sign with a brief descripton of the history of the crèche, maybe the smallest, maybe from a diferent country, maybe from your grandparents, maybe your child made it... 30 years ago!! Please bring your crèche in anytme on or afer Nov. 25. Saint Francis of Assisi Pastoral Life Center, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.

Startng December 2, we welcome the Community to our "Art" Gallery to stroll through the display of Crèches and the Sacred Art Paintngs by Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Van Gogh, Tanner, Vermeer and more

Photos

County adopts new dog ordinance

by Michael Howell

Ravalli County Commissioners adopted a new dog control ordinance on Thursday, November 7. The new Ordinance No. 46, titled “Vicious Dog, Dog-At-Large, Dog Bite & Rabies Control,” replaces the existing ordinance No. 37 titled “Dog Protection and Control” that was adopted in April, 2013. The new ordinance will take efect 30 days following the adoption of the ordinance, that is December 7, 2024. The new ordinance states that a person commits a violation of this ordinance if the person is an owner or

violation of this section if the person or animal bit is trespassing within the property of the owner or temporary owner, and the dog is within the property of the owner or temporary owner at the time of the bite.

It also states that a law enforcement ofcer investigating a reported dog bite shall also determine if a dog is a “vicious dog,” which is defned as “a dog which bites or attempts to bite any person without provocation, or which harasses, chases, bites, or attempts to bite any other person’s animal.” However, it goes on to state, “The owner or temporary owner is not in violation of this section if the dog has been provoked by the person or animal who was bit. The owner or temporary owner of a dog is not in violation of this section if the person or animal bit is trespassing within the property of the owner or temporary owner, and the dog is within the property of the owner or temporary owner at the time of the bite.”

The ordinance requires the confnement of a vicious dog to the property of the owner by fencing, kenneling and the placement of warning signs, but also allows the dog to be taken of the property if it “is securely muzzled and adequately restrained on a leash or harness.”

If the owner or temporary owner is not present at the incident where a dog is deter-

mined to be vicious, the dog may be temporarily seized and remanded to an animal shelter at the owner or temporary owner’s expense. The Ravalli County Sherif’s Ofce shall be initially responsible for the cost of care while the dog is housed at the animal shelter. The owner or temporary owner of the dog may redeem the dog only after paying to the animal shelter and/ or the Ravalli County Sherif’s Ofce any cost of care incurred by the animal shelter and/or Sherif’s Ofce.

One amendment made to the ordinance between the frst and second readings was in the penalties involved. The maximum fne for a third time violation of the ordinance was reduced from $1000 to $500 to conform with state law.

The fnal approved penalties for violating the ordinance are a fne in the amount of not less than $50 or more than $500 for the frst violation, and a fne of not less than $100 or more than $500, or imprisonment in the Ravalli County Detention Center for a term of not more than six (6) months, or both, for the second violation. A person convicted of a third or subsequent violation shall be fned an amount of not less than $500, and be imprisoned in the Ravalli County Detention Center for a term of not more than six (6) months.

A dog may simply be determined to be a dog-at-large and the owner may be fned an amount not to exceed $100. “At-large” means any dog located outside the boundary of the premises of its owner or temporary owner, and not under the immediate control of the owner or temporary

owner by leash, tether, lead, harness, or other physical control device or voice restraint, or signal control of a person capable of controlling, subduing, or restraining the dog, or by complete confnement within or upon a vehicle with permission of the owner of the vehicle.

Some concern was expressed in discussions about allowing voice or signal control of dogs in public.

Commissioner Jef Burrows said it made sense to leave the ordinance unchanged in this regard.

“If a dog is out there running around harassing people, I think the ofcer should have that discretion,” said Burrows. “If it’s a friendly dog just running around and takes a kid’s lunch, I hope that they would use their discretion in that situation and tell someone, you know you’ve got to keep your dog on a leash. I think we would be looking at bigger problems if we actually made a leash law, because what are you going to do if someone says there’s a puppy walking down the street and you are in violation of an ordinance because it’s not on a leash? I think that’s too far from what our intent in this ordinance was.”

The ordinance requires any person with knowledge that an animal has bitten a human to promptly make a report of the bite to the animal control ofcer or public health department. It also requires all dogs to be vaccinated for rabies. Without evidence of vaccination the dog may be quarantined. The court, after hearing, may order the euthanasia of any dog, cat or ferret if the court fnds that the animal is a risk to the community.

Schneider has been with Partners for a year and a half, and is based out of Missoula, where the organization’s head ofce is. Before that, she worked in nursing and in hospice-based care for 37 years. She says the nonproft’s values aligned with her own views on health care. When asked why she joined Partners in Home Care, Schneider said it was because the company has a great reputation, and because she also appreciates its longevity and culture.

“I value the work that nonproft organizations do,” said Schneider. “We don’t turn patients away.” Though most patients need to pay for their service with the organization, Partners in Home Care can be more fexible because of its nonproft status. This means they are also eligible for outside funding, such as donations and grants, which are meant to aid those who need assistance with their coverage. According to Schneider, they operate knowing that a portion of their funding will be meant for these individuals, which is why they are there in the frst place.

“...getting

McIntyre answered that this is because these services are really best done with an ofce. He explained that much of the service includes teaching people about their equipment. He compared other places that generally just ship direct to customer, usually with written directions. However, this can be difcult, especially for older patients, who may have trouble understanding the

- Dustin McIntyre, Director of Home Medical Equipment

Partners in Home Care covers all of western Montana and is one of the few nonproft home health and hospice services in the state. According to Schneider, they are able to provide high quality care to numerous small and large communities. In fact, she added that for many rural communities, they are the only provider of these services.

As for the new Hamilton location, it will primarily be a site for Positive Airway Pressure Therapy (PAP) and “the goal is to make it easier for PAP patients to receive their care,” said Schneider. According to Dustin McIntyre, the director of home medical equipment, the thing that drives his work with Partners in Home Care is “getting to see patients’ care improve and knowing the positive impact that is going to have on their life.” He has been with the company for four years, and loves what he does. It is “really exciting to bring high quality sleep services to the residents of the Bitterroot,” said McIntyre.

McIntyre said what he likes most about his job is his patients. For McIntyre, it is all about making a “positive impact on their healthcare journey.”

When asked why the primary function of the site is sleep services,

proper use of their equipment. Additionally, not only do some things need to be ftted to individual patients, many times a lack of understanding or proper training on equipment can lead to perceived ineffectiveness. His belief is that having patients come in and learn frst-hand can signifcantly increase their success with the equipment.

Rose Larson is an RN who has been cross-trained with PAP. She will be working fulltime out of the Hamilton ofce. She has been with Partners in Home Care for nearly three years, and is excited for the opportunity this will bring to patients. “People come from so far away, logistically it is so hard,” said Larson.

She has experienced that a lot of their patients previously had to coordinate numerous appointments while visiting Missoula. Now, with a stop in the valley, they will have one less stop while trying to get everything done on a single day.

Larson loves her job, especially teaching. It makes her day to be able to simplify some of the complicated equipment for people, and to distill everything down into only what they need to know to be efective with their sleep assistance. Otherwise, she said they can get overwhelmed. She herself has sleep issues, and believes many people may also, and not realize it. She believes people should go to get tested, and said it can make a huge diference. “I wish I had known sooner,” said

The new Partners in Home Care location services everyone from 18 to 90 plus; anyone with a sleep trouble diagnosis. It will also operate as a base of operations for any of their staf working in the valley, because it is out-

Corin Schneider and Dyanna Canavan stand at the right, and Dustin McIntyre and Rose Larson stand at the left, all outside Partners in Home Care’s new Hamilton satellite offce. Photo by John Dowd.

Two PAP masks on display in one of the visiting rooms. The main service the site provides is geared around sleep aid, so it is no surprise these masks can be found here. Photo by John Dowd.

West-central Montana hunter check stations report

At the midpoint of big game general hunting season, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks hunter check stations near Anaconda, Bonner and Darby all reported relatively quiet weekends, compared to the start of the season, but harvest totals remain up compared to last year.

Collectively, west-central Montana’s three FWP wildlife check stations saw 5,212 hunter stops during the frst two weekends of the season, compared to 5,014 during the same period last year. Those hunters checked 196 elk, compared to 165 last year. They also reported 68 mule deer, compared to 57 in 2023 and 168 white-tailed deer, compared to 172.

Although deer harvest was slower during the third weekend, the deer rut picked up, and a handful of big mule deer and white-tailed deer

bucks were harvested in all parts of the region. Mule deer harvest is up or on par with last year at all stations, and white-tailed deer harvest is down just slightly at the check station near Bonner, but on track with last season region-wide.

All stations are tracking on or above last season in elk harvest, with the biggest bump at the Bonner station of 38 elk, compared to 20 at the 2023 season midpoint.

Although wildlife check stations sample a relatively small portion of the overall efort and harvest, they capture important trends and biological information, and by stopping to report a harvest or an experience, hunters are helping with wildlife management in Montana. FWP reminds hunters they must stop at all wildlife check stations that they pass, even if they have not

harvested any animals.

For more hunting season reminders and to track hunter success, stay tuned to the FWP weekly check station reports for west-central Montana. The general big game season runs through Sunday, Dec. 1.

CWD sampling locations Hunters can help with chronic wasting disease (CWD) management by submitting samples from harvested deer, elk, and moose for testing.

In west-central Montana, the wildlife check stations near Darby and Anaconda are collecting CWD samples, as well as specifc CWD sampling locations at Clearwater Crossing in the Blackfoot Valley (Sat, Sun, Mon from 10 a.m.-dark), Arrow Stone Park in Deer Lodge (Fri, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Sat, Sun, Mon from 10 a.m.-dark) and

the Missoula FWP ofce (Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-5p.m.). For a complete list of stations and hours across the state, visit fwp.mt.gov/cwd. Hunter can also take samples themselves and mail them to the wildlife lab for testing.

Although CWD testing is voluntary across most of Montana, samples from hunter-harvested deer, elk and moose are critical to FWP’s understanding of this fatal disease. Multiple big game hunting districts around west-central Montana are Priority Surveillance Areas for CWD, which are areas where FWP is making a concerted efort to gather more samples. All sampling is ofered for free to hunters. Hunters play a key role in understanding CWD by providing data and in minimizing the spread by disposing of wildlife parts properly. Read more: fwp.mt.gov/cwd.

in the parking lot in front of Kodiak Jax. Michalson then stated that the area is dangerous and “we all know it.” He added, “My obligation as mayor is to serve the public. It’s a very popular place, but we have a liability with the parking.” He observed that people parking there need to step out into the street to exit their vehicles, and drivers can’t see around that corner.

The mayor added that they may be able to look at, and possibly shorten, the “no-parking” area there, but “I just want to do the right thing for the town.”

The mayor’s concerns were echoed by Stevensville Chief of Police, John Boe. According to Boe, the last accident that occurred there was really recent. It involved a truck and trailer coming through and ripping a lady’s vehicle from bumper

to bumper. This nearly totaled the vehicle, yet the trailer was going the speed limit. “There was just nothing he could do,” added Boe. The mayor chimed back in, stating that he knows many semis are now avoiding the path, and going all the way around, because the curves are too tight, even to deliver to Burnt Fork Market. Both the mayor and the chief added that they are also planning to re-paint the crosswalks in that area as well.

Continuing projects on traffic safety in town, the council looked at placing a 15 MPH speed sign at the corner of East 3rd Street and Railroad Ave. According to Chief Boe, there is a sign coming from the other way. According to the mayor, “Somebody could say, well, I didn’t see the sign. Well, now you will.” The council voted to approve the sign placement.

Additionally, the Town looked at replacing a yield sign with a stop sign at the same corner. Chief Boe commented, saying that he believes it will prevent future incidents at that location. He has found that “the yield is typically a ‘suggestion,’ apparently, to some motorists.” This way, drivers will have no choice but to stop there. This vote passed as well.

The mayor gave an update on the town’s water meter situation. According to him, they are now down to 66 meters left to replace, from over 200 when he started. They have also cut the lost water from 15 million gallons down to just 11 million with the meter project alone.

At the end of the meeting, Michalson spoke during the executive report about the Turkey Trot. This program is usually done by the mayor of Hamilton. It is a fundraiser, where the mayor would go around, dressed as a turkey, and visit various businesses in Hamilton, Stevensville and Darby. The money collected in each town is donated to each area’s corresponding food pantry. However, this year Mayor Dominic Farren -

kopf has found himself unable to do all three towns, and had to reach out for help from the other two mayors, both of whom agreed to help. According to Mayor Farrenkopf, “I started the Turkey Trot in 2018. My wife made me a turkey costume and I went through the towns of Hamilton, Stevensville and Darby, raising money for those communities’ food banks. I simply ask people to put a dollar in the cornucopia, and the money I raise as I walk around each town is donated. Over the years, people have been extremely generous, which I appreciate. I did do the Turkey Trot in Hamilton this year on Friday, November 15. With my new position at Sapphire Lutheran Homes, I was unable to trot the town of Darby or the town of Stevensville this year. Thankfully, Nancy McKinney, Mayor of Darby, stepped up and did her food drive on Saturday, November 16. Stevensville Mayor, Bob Michalson, has agreed to do the Turkey Trot for me in Stevensville this year. He will trot around Stevensville this Friday, November 22. I appreciate them picking up the baton and carrying on! If you don’t get an opportunity to see one of us mayors, head down to your local food bank, and drop off a dollar!”

Corvallis

Unique custom-built farmhouse. 3 bed / 3 bath on 16+ acres with 360-degree views. Apple orchard, Daly Ditches irrigation. Open concept living; can be divided into 3 separate living quarters with 3 kitchens & 3 granite walk-in showers. Many possibilities for the

At 10 a.m. on Friday, Michalson will don the turkey suit and travel down Main Street visiting local businesses. According to Michalson, “It’s good for the community, and for the pantry.” All the funds he will raise will go to Pantry Partners, located in Stevensville. Michalson said he has donated to them before when he had to give his campaign’s funds in the past. “They are very good for the community,” said Michalson, who jumped at the chance to give back.

Sapphire Community Health is proud to serve Hamilton and surrounding areas with accessible, affordable care for everyone, regardless of their insurance status. On National Rural Health Day, Nov. 21, we’re recognizing the vital role rural healthcare providers play in keeping our community healthy. Join us in celebrating the difference we can make together.

Sapphire Community Health provides wellness exams for all The Bitterroot Valley, with easy scheduling and a variety of payment options, including Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance, and a sliding fee scale.

a patient is easy, with little to no wait for scheduling a new patient appointment. Call Sapphire Community Health today at 406-541-0032 to schedule your wellness exam.

Will Tester apologize?

The voters retired Jon Tester. That wise choice proved Montana’s values ring loud and clear. It was the right choice.

Tester’s campaign ads were bold, audacious and judged by many as outright falsehoods. Tester’s ads may have come from his campaign or outstate groups (spending millions of dollars) attempting to keep his liberal seat cozied up to the masters directing his votes.

I am waiting on full-page ads apologizing to Senator-elect Tim Sheehy for the ugly and underhanded way he was treated. The blatant “lies” as Tim Sheehy described them were part of Tester’s vicious ads. However, I feel voters were turned of, and Tester’s campaign strategy may have even backfred.

At any rate, Montana is well represented for the next six years. Thanks to those who helped send Tim Sheehy to Washington DC. He will never be far from the Big Sky.

Jim Kalkofen Stevensville

Deception by Planned Parenthood

I congratulate the American people for seeing through the lies and deceptions of the “woke” left and delivering President Trump back to the White House. Now he can correct everything they did to ruin our country – economy, border, illegal aliens etc, etc. I am ecstatic the communist agenda was defeated!

There is one thing they deceived Montanans about. This was CI 128. They (Planned Parenthood) spent $16 million in outside money here to pay an army of outsiders $35 an hour to go door to door and to invade all business parking lots with their lies about the proposition. They said it was “health care” for mothers. Actually there was already a law only restricting abortions after six months - late term abortions.

CI 128, besides allowing late term abortions, suspends parents’ rights. Any girl can get an abortion at Planned Parenthood. It also allows children to transition from boy to girl and girl to boy. They remove the body parts and provide hormones.

The reason Planned Parenthood (what a misnomer!) wants the extra three months is that they sell the babies’ body parts for lots of money. The law also invites children and adults from all other states to get abortions and transitions here. More money for Planned Parenthood.

Richard Parker Stevensville

Treasure or trash

A reading of Victoria Howell’s November 5, 2024, article, “One man’s treasure is another man’s trash” left me sad and angry. The story of how three neighbors banded together, using political connections and taxpayer money, to harass Frank Piwarski and his family for 40+ years is an all-too-realistic snapshot of our society. It reveals how vendettas by private individuals are behind the continuing internal confict that, for decades, has reduced the efectiveness of Stevensville’s city government.

I’ve known Frank for over 30 years and consider him a good friend.

Opinion

Granted, Frank marches to a diferent drummer. So what! Diferent” does not equate to “bad.” He is loyal to his family and friends, one of the most intelligent people I’ve ever met, and lives his life based on closely held ethics.

Unlike many folks, Frank does not believe money makes a person happy. He lives life as simply as possible with minimal money, likely the reason he and his family are the focus of a few neighbors who equate money, social status, and acceptance with happiness. He has no wish for more money than his family needs or to conform to continuously changing social norms.

Berta’s Farm, Frank’s family property is one of the largest undeveloped pieces of land close to downtown Stevensville. No doubt that is the root of this ongoing dispute. Someone believes that property is prime for development and for over 40 years has been dreaming of the large proft it would generate if developed. The obstacle is, Frank and his family have no wish to sell. They simply want to be left alone to live in the manner they desire.

At least one of the neighbors conspiring to drive Frank and his family out also resides on a large piece of town property prime for development. That family may not want to develop their real estate because they like it the way it is, and, well, it’s their home. While neighbors may not want to develop their property, they and their co-conspirators have no problem insisting that someone else, Frank Piwarski and his family who are “diferent,” make their home available for development. The irony obviously escapes them.

Admittedly, Berta’s Farm is not like the manicured dwellings of the co-conspirators. It’s a farm! I challenge anyone to fnd a working farm in Ravalli County that does not have piles of building materials, old vehicles, or grass and weeds that want mowing.

Because the Town of Stevensville has not been able to follow a court’s directive to “clean up” Berta’s Farm, Patrick Groninger, one of the co-conspirators, has volunteered to do the work for the town. What could possibly go wrong with that scenario? Is it believable that Groninger’s “cleanup” would not be heavy-handed, include unnecessary work, or involve grossly infated costs? And it is questionable whether the authorization of transferring the cost of cleanup to Berta’s Farm property taxes fts the legal defnition of “illegal taking,” something protected by the Fifth Amendment.

Isn’t it time the Town of Stevensville stopped wasting taxpayers’ money (six times to court, six losses) by harassing the owners of Berta’s Farm at the behest of three neighbors who refuse to tolerate people who are “diferent”? The Mayor and Town Council should focus on doing things that beneft the majority of Stevensville residents and not the desires of three intolerant residents.

Michael Hoyt Corvallis

Be careful what you wish for

Boy, what a week it’s been since our US National Election Day ended last week without an insurrection or claims of voter fraud. This week, our incoming leader, The Orange Julius, started choosing his cabinet for his TV Show “The Apprentice.” Whoops, I mean his candidates for some of the Executive Departments.

While watching in disbelief at some

of his choices, I was reminded of the idiom “Be careful what you wish for” (because you may not get what you really wanted). A case in point: The Trumpster’s three recent cabinet picks: Pete Hegseth (Dept. Defense), Tulsi Gabbard (National Intelligence) and Matt Goetz (US General Attorney).

The problem is that none of these people are qualifed for the positions they would be heading. One of them is a weekend host for Fox News TV, the other not very intelligent and Mr. Goetz by far the worst of all. He has several charges pending against him that involve improper sexual activities with young women.

Do we really want a person like that coming into the White House next year? Oh wait, I forgot that we’ll be getting a similar deviant January 20, 2025 who will be in charge of all these misfts. Let’s Make America Great Again!

Jim Hamilton Florence

All that matters is we are killing wolves

On November 12th, in Helena, the Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks Commission met to fnalize this year’s wolf trapping and snaring regulations. We expected the worst and were not disappointed. From an “ethical” Montana trapper telling the world that if he trapped a wolf and didn’t have a “tag” (license), he would shoot the wolf and then release it. So, I ask you, how is this ethical? We often hear that trapping is highly regulated and that trappers are the poster child for their high standards and ethics.

When should public safety outweigh the rights of the so-called ethical trapping community? At this commission hearing, Region 2 MtFWP Commissioner Jef Burrows put forth an amendment that reversed trapping setbacks to protect Ravalli County backcountry users, children, and pets. Virtually all of Ravalli County, except for four areas, have 50-foot setbacks down from what the rest of Montana has of 150 feet.

So how can this be? Why would the Region 2 MtFWP commissioner reverse a public safety tool that has worked reasonably well? Let me ex-

plain who we believe is responsible for your outdoor recreation stress. Montana Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife, along with an out-of-state (Idaho) anti-wolf organization, Foundation for Wildlife Management (Anti-wolf and pro bounty) organization, convinced Commissioner Burrows that the handful of trappers’ desires were more important than the public safety you, me, and our family pets deserve.

Clearly, Commissioner Burrows is in the pocket of the unethical wolf and large carnivore-hating organizations. This is all at the expense of hundreds, if not thousands, of Ravalli County taxpayers who, up until now, enjoyed a stress-free backcountry walk with their friends, family, and pets.

So, if you have the misfortune of having a family pet caught in a trap and it lives, you know the rest of the story and who to send the veterinary bill to should your pet live.

Marc Cooke, President Wolves of the Rockies Stevensville

Expansion of Hamilton city limits

For the past 20 years, previous administrations, plus laws passed by previous councils, have supported annexation for water and sewer services. Grants are usually given for repairs of old existing systems. Expansion of services have to be paid for by the residents. We have been advised repeatedly that control of planning is best done and approved at the time of annexation! In the last study the city was told that our water system would carry us for the next 20 or so years. Why has a diferent company given a diferent assessment? Please be very careful about giving breaks to folks outside the city limits and putting new expenses for new equipment on the tax bills of longtime residents! Most grants come from the interest on the coal tax fund. Most cities apply for these grants every two years. The competition and awards are based on greatest need. Thank you for your PUBLIC service.

Joe Petrusaitis Hamilton

A Course of Love study group

Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon.

Center for Spiritual Life, Hamilton Call: 406-381-6480

Florence American Legion

Florence American Legion Post 134 is having a free pancake breakfast on the frst Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Hall.

Knotty Knitters Guild

Meets the 4th Tuesday of every month except July, August, December, and January at 6 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 275 Hattie Lane, Hamilton. You can also bring your knitting project to visit and knit with friends or get help with questions on Fridays from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. Any questions call 406-381-5123 or just show up on Friday!

Yoga for Veterans

FREE to veterans, frst responders, and their families! Tuesdays, 1-2pm at the American Legion Post 94 in Stevensville Register at: redwillowlearning.org OR call 406-5307175. Come see us on 1st Friday in May ‘bout 1800 for more info! We’ll be in front of Active Care Wellness on Main in Stevensville

MS Support Group

Bitterroot MS Support Group meets every 3rd Thursday of the month in the Gallery room at the Cofee Cup Cafe in Hamilton, 500 S 1st Street, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Have a slice of pie, dinner, or just come to chat with others about living with Multiple Sclerosis. This is a positive and uplifting group that holds open discussions, and the occasional guest speaker. Find more information at www.nationalmssociety.org or contact Jackie Peterson, (970)518-293, jackierpeterson@gmail.com

Republican Central Committee

The Ravalli County Republican Central Committee regular monthly meetings are held the frst Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at The Place Church, 273 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. All are welcome to attend.

Bitterroot Celtic Society

The Bitterroot Celtic Society meets every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton. The Bitterroot Celtic Society is a passionate group of volunteers, dedicated to keeping the Celtic culture, heritage, and history alive in the Bitterroot Valley. Their biggest event is the Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering, held every third weekend in August at the Historic Daly Mansion. They also host a Burns’ Night supper, St. Andrew’s, St. Patrick’s, and Tartan day events. The BCS is a non-proft organization. The public, new members, and the curious are always welcome to attend. For any time changes or additional committee meeting info, follow their Facebook page for updates.

North Valley Library

Library Board Meeting — Wed. Nov 20 at 3pm

Meetings are open to the public. Agendas and the Public Participation are posted on the Library’s website. If you are a member of the public and are unable to attend the Board meetings, the Board would still like to hear from you. Please email the Director at denisea@northvalleylibrary.org or you can email board members directly. A link to Trustee contact information can be found at montana.gov.

Missoula Butterfy House & Insectarium Visit — Mon. Nov 25 at 4pm

In this fun and active program you will learn all about the special adaptations and behaviors arthropods use to survive in the wild. We’ll hold Bug Ambassadors and play movement-based games to learn about their survival adaptations. We’ll wrap up our time together with a simple craft that engages your imagination. Everyone will envision a new species of arthropod that is uniquely adapted to survive in its habitat.

Thanksgiving Closures The Library will close early at 5pm on Wednesday, Nov 27. We will be closed on Thursday, Nov 28 and Friday, Nov 29. Holiday Bookorations Fundraiser — Friday, Dec 6 ‘Tis the season to deck the halls! Handcrafted “bookorations,” festive trees and ornaments made out of upcycled books, delight booklovers, making beautiful additions to your

winter decor, and beneft the Library. Bookorations by the NVPL Foundation make thoughtful gifts (for yourself or others), so swing by during this year’s Country Christmas to purchase yours.

3rd Annual Winter Art Exhibit — Friday, Dec 6 from 5-8pm

Celebrate the skill and creativity of local adult artists at the 3rd Annual Winter Art Exhibit. As you enjoy the festivities of Stevensville’s Country Christmas, make an evening of it and come by to enjoy art in various mediums, refreshments, and to pick out the perfect “bookoration” gift at the Bookorations Fundraising Sale held at the same time as our pop-up gallery. Submissions for inclusion in the exhibit accepted until 6pm on Monday, Dec 2. Drop of artwork between Dec 2 -4. Submission forms available to download from this page, at the Library, or online at tinyurl.com/ NVPLart2024

Hamilton school board

Governance Committee Meeting

Thursday – December 5, 2024

12:00 p.m. – District Ofce Conference Room. The Committee will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at: https://www.youtube. com/@HSD3Boardmtg

Regular Board Meeting

Tuesday – December 10, 2024

6:30 p.m. – District Ofce –Conference Room. The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube.

Grief coping sessions

Coping with Grief and Loss

During the Holidays -- The death of a loved one is one of the most difcult experiences we face in life. You are invited to come share your grief journey, learn how to honor and remember your loved one, and how to care for yourself during the holidays. Join in for a 2-hour faith-based pre-holidays grief care session ofered 4 times in November and December at St Francis of Assisi, 411 S. 5th St. Hamilton. This program uses the faith-

based Griefshare.org program which includes a free helpful handbook, viewing of a short DVD followed by small group sharing. This session is FREE and sponsored by the St Francis of Assisi Caring Hearts Ministry, 411 S. 5th St., Hamilton. RSVP at stfrancishwm@gmail. com or https://www.griefshare.org/ fndagroup

Tow sessions left: Sunday, December 8, 1:003:00pm Tuesday, December 10, 3:005:00pm

Turkey Trot

The Stevensville portion of the annual Turkey Trot to raise money for local food banks will be handled by Mayor Bob Michalson, flling in for Dominic Farrenkopf. Stevensville-area businesses can expect to get a visit from a giant turkey asking for donations on Friday, November 22nd St. Francis Christmas Bazaar

Come visit the Christmas Bazaar on Saturday, November 23 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at St Francis of Assisi at 411 S. 5th St in Hamilton! Enjoy breakfast and lunch served by the Knights of Columbus, baked goodies, pasties, rafes, and hundreds of perfect holiday gift items like hand-made quilts, vintage decor, soaps, emu oil products, lavender items, gift jar mixes and more! Win a wonderful rafe prize: beautiful antique quilt; $100 certifcate for Hamilton Marketplace; homemade goodies and a mystery basket!

Soroptimist candy sale

Beginning Monday, November 25th, at 11 a.m., Thanksgiving and Christmas See’s chocolates will be sold by Soroptimists of Hamilton at the ‘red trailer chocolate store’ located at the Karl Tyler Express Lube, 415 N. 1st (Hwy 93)south of the Ravalli County Federal Credit Union in Hamilton. The store will be open Monday to Friday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Don’t wait! Candy sells out within a few weeks. Soroptimist See’s will return for Valentines Day and Easter. Candy purchases help support several local organizations and projects: SAFE, Bitterroot Literacy, Child Care Resourc-

es, Women’s Hygiene, Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls, Senior Women, International Scholarships, Stop Human Trafcking, and Genesis House.

Decoration rummage sale

A holiday decoration rummage sale will be held Saturday, November 30th, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Three Mile Community Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. Buy, sell, bargain, donation! A great opportunity for you to sell or buy used holiday decorations (Christmas, Halloween, Fall, Easter, etc.) Spaces are available for only $15.00, Or you can donate them to the Community Center for them to sell. All funds raised at the event will go towards improving/paving the parking lot. The Community Center will be accepting donations of items Monday, Nov. 25 and Wednesday, Nov. 27 between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. and Saturday, Nov. 30, 9 a.m. to noon.

Victor Museum Chocolate Tasting

The Victor Heritage Museum is holding its annual fund-raising event, The Chocolate Tasting Party and Silent Auction, on December 2nd, the

Sports

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

Florence volleyball state runner-up

The Florence volleyball team won the 2024 Class B State Runner-up trophy in Bozeman on Saturday, November 16. The Falcons lost the frst game of the tournament on Thursday to Huntley Project. Then they made it all the way back to the championship game on Saturday, where they faced Huntley Project again and were defeated 2-3 (25-13, 25-15, 22-25, 20-25, 10-15) in an epic fve-set match.

In the championship game, the Falcons needed to beat Huntley twice to claim the title, since they came up through the loser’s bracket in the double elimination tournament.

The title game started of ideally for Florence as they won the frst two sets, 25-13 and 25-15. Then they dropped the next two sets, 22-25 and 20-25, which set up a decisive 5th set, where they lost 1015.

“I’m super proud of our team. They are a special group of young girls,” said Florence’s head coach Kristy Duchien. “It’s just bittersweet right now to have gotten so close and it stings to have come up just short. But to even get to the championship game, our players had to step up. And they did. As a group we talked about ‘running through a brick wall for each other’ and that’s what these girls did at state.”

In the championship match, for Florence, Maggie Schneiter had 4 aces, 7 kills, 37 assists and a block, Elise Schneiter had 2 aces and a block, Taylor Pyette had 20 digs, Emory Ralston had 13 kills and a block, Ava Philbrick had 12 kills and 4 blocks, Ella Goeltz had 25 digs, and Dia Jenkins had 19 digs.

It was a long and winding road for Florence at State. The Falcons played three weeks worth of volleyball in three days in Bozeman, playing six total games from Thursday to Saturday.

“After they lost the frst game, they knew it was going to be a lot of hard work to make it back,” said Duchien. “But they didn’t want it to be over. They weren’t ready to die, not this time. They went out there and performed.”

Here’s a recap of Florence’s path. Florence lost 0-3 to Huntley in the opening round on Thursday,

they defeated Fairfeld 3-0 Friday morning, they defeated Anaconda 3-1 Friday afternoon, they defeated Jeferson 3-2 Friday night, and fnally they defeated Baker 3-1 on Saturday morning to get to the Championship game where they played Huntley again. Phew.

Pivotal game against Jeferson

Like last year at state, the Falcons lost their frst game, then clawed their way up the loser’s side of the bracket to the 3rd/4th game. Last year they lost to Columbus in this game and missed out on a trophy. The feeling after that loss has fueled this year’s team all season.

As fate would have it, they found themselves in the same spot on Friday night in Bozeman in the 3rd/4th place game where they faced a strong Jeferson team. A loss meant going home without a medal just like the year before. A win propelled them to the top three and a guaranteed trophy.

Florence won the frst set, then Jeferson won the next two sets and Florence trailed 1-2. Jeferson had all the momentum, and it looked like Florence might sufer the same fate as last year.

But the girls dug deep and rallied to win the 4th set, setting up a dramatic 5th set. Florence got up early and held on for a 15-9 victory to seal a top three fnish.

“Before the 5th set we talked about how we were here again on a Friday night,” said Duchien. “We knew that we needed to push through and play how we were capable of. And they went out there and did it and won.”

Florence had defeated Jeferson 3-2 (25-23, 12-25, 21-25, 25-19, 15-8). For Florence, Emory Ralston had 3 aces, 15 kills and a block, Maggie Schneiter had 44 assists and 2 aces, Taylor Pyette had 15 digs, Olivia Raczykowski had 9 kills and a block, Ella Goeltz had 25 digs, Ava Philbrick has 11 kills and a block, and Dia Jenkins has 13 digs. Tournament recap and stats

For the Falcons, the tournament started and

ended with Huntley, as they opened up the tournament against the Red Devils in the frst round on Thursday. Florence lost 0-3 (23-25, 24-26,15-25) in a competitive match.

For Florence, Maggie Schneiter has 2 aces, 9 digs and 22 assists, Taylor Pyette had an Ace and an assist, Ava Philbrick had 9 kills, Emory Ralston had 8 kills, 2 blocks and 12 digs, Elise Schneiter had 6 kills and 2 blocks, Ella Goeltz had 16 digs, Aislynn Campbell had 3 blocks, and Dia Jenkins had 9 digs.

This loss sent them to the loser’s side of the bracket where they defeated Fairfeld 3-0 (25-17, 25-23, 25-15) early Friday morning. For Florence, Emory Ralston had 2 aces, 9 kills, 2 blocks and 14 digs, Maggie Schneiter had an ace, 24 assists and 15 digs, Ella Goeltz had an ace and 3 assists, Olivia Raczykowski had 6 kills and a block, Aislynn Campbell had 5 kills, both Elise Schneiter and Ava Philbrick had an assist and a block, and Taylor Pyette had 14 digs.

This win sent them to play Anaconda on Friday afternoon and they defeated the Copperheads 3-1 (23-25, 25-22, 25-23, 25-16). For Florence, Elise Schneiter had an ace, 9 kills and a block, Ella Goeltz had an ace and 20 digs, Emory Ralston had an ace, 10 kills and 12 digs, Taylor Pyette had an ace, two assists and 16 digs, Ava Philbrick had 17 kills and 3 blocks, Maggie Schneiter had 35 assists, Aislynn Campbell and Olivia Raczykowski each had a block.

Florence then defeated Jeferson 3-2 sending them to the 3rd place match (loser takes 3rd, winner moves on to the championship) against Baker on Saturday morning. Florence won 3-1 (25-22, 25-19, 18-25, 25-13) to punch their ticket into the championship match against Huntley.

“It’s sad that we won’t get to play together anymore,” said Duchien. “We had such a great group of girls and a great group of seniors. We are all so proud of them. The young girls got a taste of what it’s like to be at state, what it takes to be successful at the highest level, so the future looks good for Florence volleyball.”

Florence football falls to Malta

The Florence football team lost to Malta 37-0 in the semifnal game of the Class B State playofs on Saturday, November 16 in Malta. The Falcons had won the last three Class B state titles and were looking for a fourth, but fell short against the Mustangs. In football, and in life, sometimes things just don’t go your way. That was the case for Florence in this game. Everything that could go wrong for Florence went wrong, and everything

Malta did seemed to work.

The score was tied 0-0 after the frst quarter. But the second quarter proved costly for Florence. First, Florence got tackled in the end zone for a safety. Then Malta scored on a long TD reception. Florence fumbled on their next possession and Malta took advantage and scored again to go up 16-0. Florence then drove down the feld and threw an interception in the endzone. Malta took the ball

and drove the length of the feld and scored again to make it 23-0. The next Falcon drive stalled and Malta got the ball back and scored again. So before Florence knew what happened, Malta was up 30-0 at halftime.

After halftime Florence settled down, but the undefeated Mustangs were too strong of a team and the Falcons had spotted them too many points to make a comeback possible.

Malta scored one more time in the

third quarter to make the fnal score 37-0. The outcome was a disappointment for Florence, as their recent success leads to high standards and expectations. But this year’s players and coaches can hold their heads up high. They ended the year with a 10-2 record and made it to the state semifnals as one of the state’s top four teams. A successful season by anyone’s standards.

Postseason honors for Southwest A Soccer

The All-State and All-Conference teams for Class A soccer were announced, and numerous Bitterroot Valley soccer players were honored.

The following boys were chosen for All-State and First Team All-Conference: Evan Montague, M, Sr., Stevensville; David Beames, F, Sr., Stevensville; Dane Hayward, F, Sr., Hamilton; Cole Fowler, D, Sr., Stevensville; Jason Chaplin, D, Sr., Hamilton; Zach Olbrich, M, Sr., Hamilton; Silas Seibert, M, Sr., Ste-

vensville. Corvallis’ Eli Knight was First Team All-Conference

The following boys made Second Team All-Conference: Christian Yaskus, D, Jr., Stevensville; Umar Sodagar, D, Sr., Stevensville; Jake Gavlak, D, Sr., Stevensville; Haven Oshell, M, Jr., Hamilton; Tyler Jette, M, Sr., Hamilton; Finn Dufresne, GK, Sr., Hamilton; Bode Pullum, M, 8th, Corvallis. The following boys made Hon-

orable Mention All-Conference: Braden Drye, GK, Fr., Stevensville; Andrew Standaert, D, Sr., Hamilton; Dawson Wildman, D, 8th, Corvallis.

The following Southwest A girls made the All-State and First Team All-Conference: Hannah Hughes, M, Sr., Hamilton; Anna Lewis, M, So., Hamilton; Greta Gantz, M, So., Hamilton; Ellie Hughes, M, So., Hamilton.

The following girls made First Team All-Conference: Lauren Nelson, D, Sr., Hamilton; Faray Wyche, GK, Sr., Corvallis; Addisen Nobi, M, Fr., Stevensville. The following girls made Second Team All-Conference: Millie Schepp, D, Sr., Stevensville; Tricia Wilson, D, Sr., Hamilton; Kate Allen, D, So., Corvallis; Madigan Hurlbert, So., F, Stevensville. The following girls made Honorable Mention All-Conference: Caitlin Nelson, D, Sr., Corvallis; Addison Henderson, M, 8th, Stevensville; Mia Faulk, GK, Jr., Hamilton.

The Florence volleyball team with their 2024 Class B State Runner-up trophy in Bozeman on Saturday, November 16th. The Falcons played six games over three days. In the championship game they lost to Huntley Project 2-3 (25-13, 25-15, 22-25, 20-25,10-15) in a fve set thriller. Photo by Jason Larson.

National Rural Health Day spotlights rural communities

Sapphire Community Health (SCH) joins healthcare providers and community leaders nationwide in celebrating National Rural Health Day on November 21.

Created by the National Organization of State Ofces of Rural Health (NOSORH), this annual observance highlights the “Power of Rural” by recognizing the essential role of healthcare services in America’s rural communities. In areas like Ravalli County, rural health clinics such as SCH play a crucial role in ensuring accessible, reliable, and comprehensive healthcare for residents close to home.

“Rural health clinics like ours are more than just healthcare providers; we’re part of the community fabric,” said Tanya Wheeler, Operations Manager at Sapphire Community Health. “Our patients are our neighbors, friends, and family, and we are committed to making high-quality, personalized healthcare accessible to every individual in our community, regardless of their circumstances.”

National Rural Health Day serves

as a powerful reminder of both the challenges and opportunities in rural healthcare. With a focus on preventive care, mental health support, and managing chronic conditions, SCH provides a comprehensive range of services that are often difcult to access in rural areas. This commitment to high-quality care has allowed SCH to bridge healthcare gaps in Bitterroot Valley since its founding in 2015, ensuring that people of all ages receive the medical support they need without needing to travel long distances.

The reality of rural healthcare underscores a unique set of challenges. Rural communities face higher rates of chronic conditions, and studies show that residents in rural areas are less likely to have access to regular, preventive healthcare. Nearly 61 million Americans live in rural areas where health services may be sparse, yet facilities like SCH continue to thrive by developing sustainable practices and fostering strong community partnerships.

“Healthcare in rural areas requires innovative approaches and

an unwavering dedication to service,” added Wheeler. “We’re proud to meet the specifc health needs of Bitterroot Valley with compassion, expertise, and a personal touch. From preventive checkups to mental health counseling and social services, we’re focused on the whole person, helping patients not only treat current conditions but also prevent future health challenges.”

SCH’s services also strengthen the local economy by providing job opportunities for healthcare professionals, administrative staf, and support personnel, ensuring that the clinic’s impact extends beyond individual patient care. Each member of the SCH team plays a vital role in the wellness of the community, contributing to both its physical and economic health.

With a commitment to reaching all residents, SCH ofers a sliding fee scale for those who qualify, making healthcare accessible to the uninsured or underinsured. SCH also accepts Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurance plans, underscoring its mission to provide equitable, inclusive

care to the Bitterroot Valley community.

“National Rural Health Day is about recognizing the importance of rural healthcare and the dedicated professionals who make it possible,” Wheeler emphasized. “For SCH, that means a continued commitment to compassionate, individualized care for every resident of Ravalli County. Our patients know that they can count on us, not just today but for the longterm health of this community.

“By ofering a wide range of services—from annual wellness exams to behavioral health support—we’re ensuring that the people of Ravalli County have access to quality, preventive care without needing to travel long distances,” said Wheeler. “We’re here to support our community’s health, empowering residents to make informed choices that beneft their long-term well-being.”

To learn more about Sapphire Community Health’s services or to schedule an appointment, please visit www.sapphirechc.org or call 406-5410032.

Champion makes it to national rodeo again

Richmond Champion’s sigh of relief could be heard down the Bitterroot Valley.

After a year of rodeo and countless battles with bucking horses that outweigh him by hundreds of pounds, the bareback rider held his breath as the regular season came to a close. He knows only the top 15 men on the money list make the National Finals Rodeo, and he was teeter-tottering on the edge.

“That was the toughest year I’ve ever had competition-wise,” said Champion, 31, who lives in Stevensville with his wife, Paige, and their son, Forrest, who turned a year old in September.

He’s right. After tens of thousands of miles and about 100 rides on bucking horses bred for excellence, he fnished the 2024 campaign 15th in the world standings with $128,965. He slid into that magical spot to secure his ninth NFR in 11 years of doing business, edging fellow bronc buster Tanner Aus by a mere $218.

“You can pick any of these rodeos where that dollar amount comes into play,” he said. “Caleb Bennett taking his re-ride in Mona (Utah) played into it, because he ended up winning it, bumping both Orin (Larsen, who fnished 17th) and Tanner down. Jacob Lees went to San Bernardino (California) and won it, so it dropped those guys down in the placing. If those things don’t happen, I’m not going to the NFR.”

Those events were on the fnal weekend of the regular season. Champion continued to hold his breath a couple weeks longer until an audit was complete, verifying he’d secured his spot in ProRodeo’s grand championship, a 10-round afair that features a $12.5 million purse.

“I’m super thankful, and it’s hard to believe this is my ninth NFR,” he said. “I think the closest guys to me in the bareback riders’ locker room this year will have fve NFRs. When you start your career, you think that’s a possibility, because you want to make NFRs and have a shot at the world title, but to have done it this many times is pretty cool.”

He made the championship for the frst time a decade ago, won two go-rounds and placed six times. During that NFR, nightly winners pocketed about $19,000. This year’s fnale will pay round winners $33,687, an incredible leap in payout. That’s just one of the aspects of ProRodeo’s premier event that has changed since he frst walked inside the Thomas & Mack Center on the University of Nevada-Las Vegas campus.

“The money, the competition and the horsepower have all changed,” said Champion, who credits part of his success to his sponsors, Cinch, Yeti, Hooey, Hyer Boots and Turtle Box Audio. “Every year it feels like it’s leaping and bounding toward the better, which is super fun to be part of and see. I feel like there’s a new age of guys that are diferent than the guys I frst shared a locker room with by a long shot.

“They’re a good group of guys. They’re excited, they’re hungry and they push you. I’m looking forward to sharing the room with them.”

There are also other diferences. While he still travels a great deal with other bareback-riding wolves who are just as eager, Champion also hit the rodeo trail with his family. It was just too difcult to leave them at home for much of the summer, so the family loaded in an RV and spent weeks together at rodeos across North America.

“We put 20,000 miles on the motorhome,” he said. “It was an adjustment and fun at the same time. It was also a lot of work, but I’m glad we made it happen. We had a lot of really good memories and pictures and experiences … and early mornings and long drives. We had probably a handful of 12-hour drives, but Forrest handled it like a champ.”

When that wasn’t feasible, the Tarleton State University graduate made adjustments on the fy to make sure he hit the rodeos he needed to make. While the family and RV stayed in one locale, he found other cowboys who were willing to take him on their adventures.

“I’d jump in with Caleb and go or I’d get on a plane with Leighton (Berry) and Cole (Reiner),” Champion said. “It was defnitely diferent rodeoing as far as not being in a set group of guys, but we just made it work. It was diferent every day, but we were able to fnd our routine.”

With each modifcation came new circumstances. The rodeo campaign is long, running 12 months from Oct. 1-Sept. 30, with world champions being crowned at the NFR, set for Dec. 5-14. There were many ups and downs that came Champion’s way over that time, but he rode the waves like the seasoned veteran he is. He was comfortable with his work in the winter months at the big, indoor rodeos in Texas, then found a hot streak in the heat of the summer. Things didn’t stay steamy, though, and he found himself falling in the standings.

“It got to a point where I wasn’t drawing good, so I was turning out of some places,” he said, explaining that he’d take a rodeo of if he wasn’t matched with a horse that could help him to the pay window. “Then, all of the sudden, I started looking at the standings and was seeing how tight everything was. I thought, ‘Oh, we’re about to play a whole diferent ballgame than we’ve ever played before.’ ” It was a mad scramble to the fnish line. Champion sweated his position as the regular season drew to a close. His work and dedication, combined with a little bit of luck, paid of, and he’s about to experience Las Vegas with a strong mindset, a brewing confdence and years of lessons of playing the sport of his choice at an elite level.

“I have been in the gym every single day, if not twice a day, for more than a month now, and I’ll have a chance to get on some good horses leading up to it,” Champion said. “I’ll keep going to the gym, make sure I’m ready and my equipment’s ready and make sure everything’s the way I want it.

“I think I’m more proud of this NFR qualifcation. I’m proud of them all, but this one means a lot because I had to work so hard for it.”

On Nov. 9, 2024 Empty Bowls in the Bitterroot held its 7th annual luncheon. Organizers sold out of tickets for both seatings. Approximately 224 guests enjoyed 11 wonderful soups from Trapper Creek, Stock Farm, BJ's, The Coffee Cup, A Thaiger, The Edge, Bitterroot Brewery and Bouilla. Participants also each selected a hand made bowl to take home! Photo courtesy Empty Bowls.

Joanne G. McElfresh

Joanne G. McElfresh, age 90, passed away from natural causes at the Living Centre on November 10, 2024. She had resided there and been well cared for in the past four years following a stroke. Her family was at her side, witnessing a remarkable woman of pioneering spirit and great story-telling ability enter her last great adventure in heaven.

Joanne was born September 28, 1934 in the Station Hospital in Fort Sam Houston, Texas to Jeannette (Boggess) Golden and Col. Joe E. Golden. Joe was a class of 1932 graduate of the West Point Academy. The family lived in many places during his career, including Texas, Georgia, Fort Missoula, Alaska, Virginia, Panama, Puerto Rico and Wisconsin. Living in all these places was disruptive to attending school but provided a rich and diverse cultural and environmental experience. Joanne graduated from high school in Puerto Rico in 1952. In the fall of 1952, Joanne bought her own bus ticket back to Missoula, being called back to the wilderness and enrolled in the UM School of Forestry. She graduated in 1956 with a degree in Forestry with the Timber Management option. She was the frst female graduate to go into the feld as opposed to clerical work. She was a career Forester who served in various assignments throughout Region 1, primarily in the Division of Timber Management in Missoula. Her favorite job adventure was when she was promoted to Zone Timber Planner for Region 1 forests. Many of her stories came from this time in Butte, 1975-79. She also completed a certifcate in Forest Ecology and Silviculture and attained an MS in Forest and Range Management from Washington State University in 1980.

Joanne met Richard J. McElfresh in 1962 in Wisdom, MT where he was a Ranger. They were married September 12, 1964 in the church of the Holy Spirit in Missoula. Their frst home was in Forest Service housing in Wisdom. They shared 40

Death Notices

Karen D. Stump

years of a wonderful marriage prior to his passing.

Joanne enjoyed a wide circle of friends and activities. She preferred to be outdoors and loved to ride horses, hike in the mountains, hunt, fsh, ski, camp and look for rocks. She was an artist in several media including photography and painting which in her later years evolved into the computer arts. She loved collecting, documenting, going out to eat, long conversations and Native American culture. She was a champion of women and had the bluest eyes and most fery spirit. She was a member of the Stevensville Garden Club, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, supporter of St. Mary’s Mission, member of Delta Gamma Sorority and named Humanitarian of the Year for Stevensville in 2013.

Joanne was preceded in death by her parents, husband Richard, brother Joseph Golden and nephew Joey Golden.

She is survived by her sisters, Eleanor (Stan) Billheimer of Kalispell and Trudy (Eric) Erickson of Helena; nieces and nephew, Jeannette (Larry) Hartmann of Kalispell, Gail Golden (David) Anderson of Taos, NM, David (Billie) Billheimer of Snohomish, WA, Joy (Mike) McKay of Missoula, Aimee Ager-Erickson of Elizabethtown, KY and Lesley Erickson of Helena. She has nine great nieces and nephews and many special friends.

The Services will be held at the Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville at 11:00 A.M. on Saturday, November 23, 2024, with a luncheon following at the Senior Center in Stevensville. A private burial will be held at the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Stevensville.

Memorial suggestions include St. Stephens Episcopal Church, 203 Main Street, Stevensville 59870 or the non-proft that has been established per Joanne’s wishes for her estate for education and spiritual formation called YES YOU SHOULD GO and is in c/o Joy McKay, 2524 Galena Court, Mis-

Hamilton - Karen D. Stump, 66, passed away on Sunday, November 17, 2024, suddenly at home. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family. at www.brothersmortuary.com

Jeffrey W. Demme

soula, MT 59808. You may feel free to plant a tree and or give to a charity of your choice as well.

In Joanne’s own words. “An education opens doors and minds. It was an awesome adventure, and I have no regrets.” She will be missed dearly but her infuence and her help of others will carry forward. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Corvallis - Jefrey W. Demme, 78, passed away this morning, Thursday, November 14, 2024 at home with his sister, Susan, at his side. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family. at www.brothersmortuary.com

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.

Now that it’s

It’s a good thing – more like a blessing – that the river is still fshable at this point in November. Especially this November.

Maybe God knew we’d need a break, a time to refresh and restore our souls after this election, and so in His divine mercy he extended the days that are warm enough to fsh for a couple of weeks after the polls closed. At least that’s what I want to think.

The river, which in past years has been iced over by now, is still in decent shape. The weather, some days, is surprisingly pleasant.

underneath. That plan didn’t work out. I fshed for a while with no takes on the nymph. I changed the bottom fy to a stonefy – still nothing. In one pool I got a hit on the hopper. Fish make all kinds of crazy mistakes, I thought. I landed that fsh, then missed another. Then a third took when I twitched the top fy. Landed that one as well, then took the nymph of and lengthened my tippet to do business with the hopper.

by Chuck Stranahan

I may go down by the river just to be there. Or I might cozy up in my hovel, put a rack of favorite CD’s in the player, and tie fies.

I might start by tying slender and sleek marabou leeches. The biggest trout I ever hooked took a #8 marabou leech. The leeches are good warm-up patterns for the fy tyer who hasn’t tied recently. And going into this winter, that includes me.

There will be other patterns as well: I’ll tie and carry some stonefy nymphs, big heavy ones in #6, and some fies I call food-form nymphs, those buggy and nondescript fies that look like food to the trout. My favorite is the Bird’s Nest.

I’m lucky. I was the frst person the late Cal Bird shared that fy with when he frst tied it. I still have materials from Cal’s estate that I use to tie Bird’s Nests. You might say the fies are authentic. I do know they catch trout – they work even when they shouldn’t.

My friend Marshall White would fsh his #12 and #14 Bird’s Nests in a variety of colors clear into and through the winter and regularly caught fsh on them.

And, I recall one early November day some years ago when I fshed the East Fork with a hopper-dropper rig. I

For the next couple of hours I twitched that hopper, threw it near the banks in slow water, fshed the edges of fast water in the main runs.

And I caught trout: hard-fghting rain-

bows with vermillion sashes on their sides, cutthroats with salmon-colored bellies and bronze-green backs, all of them good-sized and full of fght. The fsh kept hitting even when heavy fakes of snow started to fall.

I don’t know if I’ll ever replicate that day again or not, but I’ll always carry hoppers late in the season and just for grins, drift and twitch one every now and then on what might be the year’s last sunny day.

After all, the trout don’t know that in a galaxy far, far away, a frost they never felt killed the real hoppers of. No matter, so long as they still remember those hoppers – and eat mine.

Another dry that I’ll carry, of course, is the Brindle ‘Chute.

And midges: don’t forget midges, and don’t forsake fshing them. Yes,

yes, I know: they’re too small. You can’t see them. They’re hard to tie on. The leader is too fne and you keep breaking of. But still – what are you going to do if a pod of fsh is on them and you’re totally unprepared? Better to carry a minimal assortment of teeny tiny midges in black, red, and white. And prepare to have some fun. Same with blue-wing olives. One of my most memorable fshing days came when a blizzard hatch of bluewinged-olives came in the midst of a cold and nasty blizzard. A school of huge – huge - brown trout came up on those blue-wings in a frenzy I’ll never forget. I’d like to report on the big fsh I tangled with that cold November day, but that would be a stretch, even in an election year. All I had with me was streamers.

Book Review

Booked for the season

“The Puzzle Box” by Danielle Trussoni c.2024, Random House

$30.00 325 pages

Three Down is a four-letter word for “reading device.”

That’s an easy one and it fits but Sixteen Across is keeping you from finishing this puzzle. You’ve filled it in and erased it three times now and it still doesn’t make sense but that’s okay. This is why you play these brain games. As in the new book, “The Puzzle Box” by Danielle Trussoni, mindbogglers like this should be fun, not dangerous.

Ever since the head injury he sustained in high school, Mike Brink is a man consumed.

Not only does he suffer from synesthesia, with swirling colors on the periphery of his vision, but he is obsessed with puzzles and patterns. Where other people see things, Mike sees designs everywhere in contrast and cubes. He can’t help it.

Known around the world for his puzzle-solving prowess, Mike wishes he could be “normal.”

But “normal” people don’t get invitations to open Japan’s mythical Dragon Box.

Until the moment he solved the puzzle that was the invitation, Mike hadn’t even been sure the Dragon Box existed. Supposedly, an attempt to open it was only allowed every twelve years and, since it’s devious but brilliant creation by a blind man, everyone who tried died horribly. And now here was a beautiful Japanese woman, Sakura, standing in his apartment, promising Mike that she’d accompany him to Tokyo if he accepted the challenge.

How could he not?

When Ume was a child, she and her sister were taught to fight like samurai, with the same deadly fierceness that her great-great-grandfather, grandfather, and her mother had once displayed. Ume remembered her

training well and she knew Sakura did, too, but Sakura was too young to remember all the dangers of it. Sakura was well educated – both

by Terry Schlichenmeyer

girls were; once they’d arrived in America, their guardian had seen to it –but she was quite naive.

In return for his favor, the guardian wanted just one thing. He wanted whatever was in the Dragon Box.

For years now, you’ve been waiting for a book like The DaVinci Code. You may find that “The Puzzle Box” is close, but close might not be enough.

There’s both good news and not-so-great news here. You’ll find adventure, exciting chase scenes, and international conspiracy inside author Danielle Trussoni’s novel, but it starts out stiff and uneven. So much is packed into the first third of the tale that it can feel rushed, but also too slow sometimes. The characters are well-done and well-rounded and Trussoni doesn’t over-reveal, leaving readers some intrigue to enjoy – but the characters’ personal quirks are on repeat, to the point that you’ll sigh heavily when you’re reminded one more time that Mike practically needs puzzles to live.

Most oddly, the end of the story is revealed long before the books’ last page.

Readers who demand a tighter, more hair-raising, scream-downthe-cliff-type thriller may want to look elsewhere for their enjoyment because “The Puzzle Box” isn’t it. Fantasy, ninja-loving, slightly tamer intrigue novel fans, on the other hand, won’t be able to put it down. Posting Date November 18, 2024

The Bookworm Sez, LLC

FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back! $4.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star ofce, 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville.

AKC BOSTON TERRIER PUPS FOR SALE. 4 Black & White with brindle Males $1,500. 2 Blue & White Males $2,000. Text or Call 406-381-1122 with inquiries or check out our facebook page Van Note Boston Terriers.

ANTIQUES FOR SALE -- Virgelle Merc. Antiques presents a “Real Country Christmas” at a “Real Country Store” Saturday & Sunday, December 7 th and 8 th 9-5 both days, Antiques and Collectibles. Phone 1-800-426-2926 or (406) 378-3110. wwwVirgeleMontana.com. Celebrate the Season at Virgelle, Montana.

When you want the best, you want Omaha Steaks! 100% guaranteed and delivered to your door! Our Butcher's Deluxe Package makes a great gift and comes with 8 FREE Burgers ONLY $99.99. Call 1-866-884-3996 and mention code 77318EVS or visit www.omahasteaks. com/Deluxe9770

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5Gand 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978.

Get your deduction ahead of the year-end! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855- 901-2620 today!

Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-762-1508

Switch and save up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with fexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time oferget $50 of on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877-324-0193

Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Of for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-601-2865.

Legal Notices

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County

In the Matter of the Name Change of Michelle Reynoso, Michelle Reynoso, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20240000392-NC

Dept. 1

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Michelle Josefna Reynoso to Michelle Josefna Sorenson-Brown..

The hearing will be on December 4, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 23rd day of October, 2024.

/s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court

By: Barbara Beavers Deputy Clerk of Court

BS 10-30, 11-6, 11-13, 11-20-24.

MNAXLP

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SCOTT

OWEN LYNG, Deceased. Case No.: DP-41-2024123 Dept. No. 02

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 Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to JANET J. KOCHIS, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED the 1st day of November 2024.

/s/ Janet J. Kochis, Personal Representative BS 11-6, 11-13, 11-2024. MNAXLP

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the

Name Change of Colleen Joan Bruce, Colleen Joan Bruce, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20240000389-NC

Dept. 1

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Colleen Joan Bruce to Kelly Jo Bruce. The hearing will be on December 4, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 21st day of October, 2024. /s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court By: Barbara Beavers Deputy Clerk of Court BS 11-6, 11-13, 11-20, 11-27-24.

MNAXLP

William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Ofce PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840 Telephone: (406) 3633181 email: wmziplip@gmail. com

MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: ROBERT EDWARD PISCOPO, Deceased. Cause No. DP-41-2024122

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 decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Linda L. Garstang, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Offce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court. DATED this 4th day of November 2024. /s/ Linda L. Garstang Personal Representative BS 11-6, 11-13, 11-2024.

MNAXLP

William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Ofce PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840

Telephone: (406) 3633181 email: wmziplip@gmail. com

MONTANA TWENTY

FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: PATRICIA CAROL SABO, Deceased.

Cause No. DP-41-2024119

Dept. 1

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 decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, David G. Niles, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 6th day of November 2024.

/s/ David G. Niles

Personal Representative

BS 11-13, 11-20, 1127-24.

MNAXLP

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Aleacia Abigail Ruby Standing Rock, Aleacia Abigail Ruby Standing Rock, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-24-402

Dept. 1

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Aleacia Abigail Ruby Standing Rock to Michael SunBear Standing Rock.

The hearing will be on December 18, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 7th day of November, 2024.

/s/ Paige Trautwein

Clerk of District Court

By: Catherine di Gleria

Deputy Clerk of Court

BS 11-13, 11-20, 11-27, 12-4-24.

MNAXLP

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Kirsten Joy Roy, Kirsten Joy Roy, Petitioner.

Cause No.: DV-41-20240000390-NC

Dept. 2

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Kirsten Joy Roy to Kirsten Joy O’Leary.

The hearing will be on January 9, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 15th day of November, 2024.

/s/ Paige Trautwein

Clerk of District Court

By: Barbara Beavers

Deputy Clerk of Court

BS 11-20, 11-27, 12-4, 12-11-24.

MNAXLP

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS

MARCUS STREET

MULTI-MODAL PLANNING AND DESIGN STUDY CITY OF HAMILTON, MT

November 18, 2024

The City of Hamilton is seeking proposals from qualifed frms to develop a multi-modal planning and design study for an approximate 1.5 mile section of Marcus Street/SR 269 in Hamilton, MT.

This project was selected as part of the 2023 round of Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant funding. The consultant will be required to provide comprehensive planning, design, and environmental analysis for the project as well as grant administration. The full request for proposals (RFP), which includes the scope of work and expected deliverables, is available on the City of Hamilton website at www. cityofhamilton.net and from the Hamilton City Clerk’s Offce at 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT.

Proposals shall be emailed to the Hamilton City Clerk at cityclerk@cityofhamilton.net by the proposal due date. For alternative delivery methods please contact the City Clerk. Responses must be received by the City Clerk’s Ofce no later than 5:00 p.m., Friday, December

20, 2024. Late responses will not be accepted and any response received after the due date and time will be returned unopened.

The City of Hamilton and its agents reserve the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any formality or technicality. Questions regarding the Marcus Street Multi-Modal Planning and Design Study RFP may be directed to Hamilton Director of Public Works Donny Ramer, (406) 363-6717, dpw@ cityofhamilton.net

BS 11-20, 11-27-24.

MNAXLP

AUDIT PUBLICATION STATEMENT

The fscal year 2023 audit of the Bitter Root Irrigation District has been conducted by Doyle & Associates, P.C. Certifed Public Accountants. The audit covered the year ended October 31, 2023.

Montana Code Annotated (MCA) Section 2-7-521 requires the publication of the following summary of Signifcant Audit Findings. This is only a summary and is not intended to be used as an audit report.

SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT FINDINGS

The audit report for the Bitter Root Irrigation District, Ravalli County, Montana, for the year ended October 31, 2023, contained the following independent auditor’s reports:

1. The independent auditor’s report on the District’s basic fnancial statements was unmodifed.

2. The independent auditor’s report on the District’s internal control over fnancial reporting and on compliance and other matters reported one fnding.

PUBLIC INSPECTION OF AUDIT REPORT

The audit report is on fle in its entirety and open to public inspection at the Bitter Root Irrigation District’s business ofce located at 1182 Lazy J Lane, Corvallis, Montana. The District’s management will provide a copy of the audit report to any interested person upon request.

BS 11-20-24. MNAXLP

OG-24-11-452

LEGAL NOTICE

The Ravalli County Plan-

ning Department is inviting public comment on foodplain application (FA-23-16) for work proposed within the FEMA regulated foodplain of the Bitterroot

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.

Merle

PERMIT: board denies foating islands

point would be to get foodplain input on what kind of requirements there will be and if there are any kind of maintenance requirements going forward,” said Myers. “What they were saying didn’t seem to ring true.”

County Floodplain Administrator Rob Livesay said, “The maps show areas not in the foodplain but we will have to check on the ground. There may be areas that are in it but not shown on the maps.” He said that habitat work is viewed in the same way as putting in a bank stabilization project to protect a house.

“What these folks should do is to put in a larger project proposal,” said Livesay. “He doesn’t need to put in a diferent permit request every time he wants to put a piece of wood in the stream. What he should do is apply for a larger permit project with multiple sites, like they did in the past about four years ago. Then it’s just one application with four or fve sites.”

BCD supervisor Tom Dobberstein said, “I just want to say that I don’t think we should be approving artifcial constructs that are going to foat on rivers and streams in Montana.”

he was not comfortable with the proposal as it stands.

Kerslake said, “I think that goes against everything that this board stands for. There are so many better alternatives.”

Randy Rose, a member of the public, said, “I’m the one who took this to court in 1991 to prevent this from being called a ditch. I’m just saying leave it as a natural stream.”

The board voted unanimously to deny the permit.

“I need to know what we are permitting, where we are doing it and why we are doing it,” said Kerslake. “So that’s something we are going to think about too. It may mean a submittal of a different application, maybe not, but we are just trying to see how we might make this thing

needed time to think about their application,” said Kerslake. “Because there is just too much going on here and too many unknowns that have to be addressed before we can make any motion towards this.”

“I just want to say that I don’t think we should be approving artifcial constructs that are

going to foat on rivers and streams in Montana.”

Kerslake said that the applicant had asked for a time extension on considerations of the second permit application for installing 16 cross fences on the slough.

- Tom Dobberstein, BCD Supervisor

“What they are trying to do is parcel out neighboring parcels, individual parcels that they own,” said Kerslake. “Each one would have a portage on the outer highwater mark and some within the highwater mark but out of the stream.”

Myers said that the whole point was to demarcate property boundaries. “It’s not to prevent cattle from moving between pastures. Its sole purpose is to demarcate boundaries. So, we discussed other ways of doing this that would not involve the kind of fencing that they are talking about with three wires going across close to the water. They had their reasons for not using those kinds of approaches, but we left it where they were going to discuss it and come back.”

Kerslake said that the idea of a need for 16 fences didn’t seem reasonable. “But we are giving them the chance to think this over, why they need it, where they need it.” He said the sites had not been marked on the map. He said that he told the applicant that, as a BCD supervisor,

more reasonable and obtain the landowners desires within our 310 law.” He said the map only shows land ownership and there are not 16 of them. “So that’s why we need more information. The project is just too ill-defined at this point.”

Rose asked about stream access and said, “You do need to look at it.”

“No, we don’t,” said Kerslake. “We have only to look at the effects on the bed and banks and the stream itself. Stream access is a totally different issue and outside the jurisdiction of this board.”

“So, you can pass this stuff and let them get away with not letting people go through there?” asked Rose.

Kerslake said that those issues were under the jurisdiction of DNRC and Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks. He said sometimes wire fences over a stream collect debris and create erosion problems. “So, I think that might be the least desirable type of property delineation.” he said. He said distance from the surface of the stream was part of the discussion with the applicants.

“That’s why we needed time to sit at this board table and why they

Myers said, “There is a requirement to look at alternatives to achieve the proposed purpose that may have less negative effect on the stream and the environment. They didn’t consider any alternatives, but there are alternatives to what they are proposing. That’s what we are asking them to do is consider alternatives.”

It was noted that the applicants are proposing to put stand-alone fences over the slough that have no associated fencing beyond that. For some it raised the question of whether they were really for the sake of property delineation if they didn’t continue along the property line beyond the stream.

Myers said that regardless of what they do on other portions of their property, the board had to look at what was being proposed within their jurisdiction.

“The approach that they are proposing, even though we can’t require it, would result in a request for portaging capabilities around these fence crossings,” said Myers. “That, in turn would necessitate hauling boats or whatever watercraft out of the river onto the bank and dragging it around through the portage and then back in. That would not be necessary with higher

wires where they could just float underneath. So, there is a reasonable alternative that is less impactful to the environment, to the stream and to the bank of the stream. To me that is the basis for denying the proposal as proposed. But we are not there yet. The ball is in their court. They have heard our concerns, and we will see what they come back with.”

Fred Upchurch from Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association said he believed the motive for the cross fencing was simply to discourage the public from going down there. “Sixteen crossings in a three mile stretch? It has the motive of discouraging people from using public access.” He said going around that many fences was going to end up messing up the river bank.

“There is an ulterior motive here that simply wants to stop public access,” said Upchurch. “I hope that we all recognize the motive of these individuals. The motive is to keep the public out of there.”

FWP biologist and BCD team member Jason Lindstrom said that if fences were installed and portage routes were requested that FWP would be involved but that the agency had no say in what kind of portage would ultimately be installed. It would be up to the landowners, as long as it met the letter of the law and allowed access.

Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association, Bitterroot Trout Unlimited and the Bitterroot River Protection Association all filed letters of objection to the applications.

Trout Unlimited to meet with latest fshery data

spawning redds in tributaries to the South Fork. If concerns about anglers targeting the trout are correct, these measures may help. Of course, the South Fork has also suffered from low flows and warmer water temperatures, and these harbingers of climate change may be another irremediable threat.

A reminder that the next BRTU meeting will be this Thursday, November 21. Jason Lindstrom, MFWP Fisheries Biologist, will talk about the latest fishery data and trends on the river. He will also give a brief update on status of pike and smallmouth bass in the river. It will be of particular interest to hear the status of bull trout populations in the Bitterroot, which have been struggling. Bull trout advocates were recently shocked and dismayed to hear that the bull trout populations in the fabled South Fork of the Flathead are declining. This is the only place in the state where the threatened bull trout can be specifically targeted. In response, MFWP has enacted regulations to protect bull trout in Hungry Horse Reservoir and the South Fork of the Flathead. The cause of the decline is somewhat perplexing, but the biologists have noted declines in

The meeting will be at the Hamilton Elks Club at 203 State Street in Hamilton. The program will begin at 7:00 pm on Thursday, November 21, but come on down at 5:45 to join us for a beer and one of the Elks Club legendary brats cooked in beer, grilled and served with onions and ‘kraut.

If you are a teacher or work with kids, this program will be an excellent opportunity for them to learn about how our fishery is doing. There is no charge for admission and the public is invited to attend. For more information, contact Dave Ward or Marshall Bloom.

Bitterroot Star fle photo.