Victor museum to hold popular Chocolate Tasting
by John Dowd
The Victor Heritage Museum, located at the corner of Main and Blake in Victor, has been a staple in the Victor community for over 35 years. According to volunteers, it showcases and cherishes the favored history of the Victor area. However, according to Suzanne Tout, museum board member and volunteer, “I’m always amazed people don’t even know there is a museum in Victor.”
The museum is a nonproft that runs solely on donations, with no one involved taking any kind of payment, and there being no museum visitation fee. The main source of funding comes from a single large fundraiser the museum hosts every year: The Victor Museum Chocolate Tasting. This will be the 26th year the chocolate tasting event has been held since it was founded in 1997, with the museum having skipped a couple years around Covid.
The fundraiser always falls on the frst Monday of December, and volunteers say for many people, the event is a big deal. According to Angie Dobberstein, a volunteer with the museum, “Many people visit and make it a kickof for the Christmas season.”
The chocolate tasting is $5 for any participants fve years and older. That gets a person a bag of home-made sweets, all of which were handcrafted by select members of the Victor community.
That Monday morning, the volunteers parcel out the sweets into the sacks and set them out in the library for people to stop by and purchase.
The sweets will be accompanied by cofee, hot cocoa and a silent auction. This year, the auction will display over 150 items. These items include numerous gift certifcates, jewelry, puzzles, antiques, pottery, blankets and much more. During the museum event, Out West Wagons will be there at 4 p.m. to drive people around town. At 6 p.m. the Bitterroot Community Band will play at the gazebo near the museum.
“It is so much fun meeting the people that come to visit the museum and to learn more about the area.”
The event usually draws over 250 people and people there as early as 3 p.m. on the dot, so volunteers say not to be late.
- Phyllis Riedman
The Victor Museum Chocolate Tasting is sponsored by Farmers State Bank, which helps keep the event costs down. The Museum will also be taking donations. Volunteers ask that visitors remember this event is the lone event that keeps the museum alive for the next year. Fortunately, volunteers also say the museum has always been well supported by the community of Victor. As stated by Brian Langton, another volunteer, “It really blesses us greatly.”
The museum, itself, is actually one of the old Victor railroad stations, and was moved from Eastside Highway in 1990. Items displayed were originally Victor area only, but over the years they have opened up to things from all over the area, related to Victor. The volunteers change out displays each summer to try to feature new things from their collection. Items donated for display are considered by importance, available space and information available.
With all the work that goes into the museum, and the many years several volunteers have put into the place, according to Tout, “We could always use more volunteers.” Phyllis Riedman, another volunteer, was excited to speak on her experience working
with the museum, stating, “It is so much fun meeting the people that come to visit the museum and to learn more about the area.” For volunteer Maggie Marie Nordenstrom, it is always fun to see people’s reactions “when they come in and they don’t realize they have all these relatives!”
As for the displays, long-time volunteer Liz Ingraham, who has lived in the area for many years, stated, “We are so happy to have them.”
Dobberstein added that these displays, “help tell the history of the community.” The volunteers spoke about a written log they have about the cemetery in Victor, which goes back to the early 1870s. Anyone who visits and is from the area can look up relatives. Volunteers also say they are always learning about people of the area. “If somebody comes in and they know who it is, please tell us!” said Dobberstein, when speaking about their old photographs.
Joann Hosko, a
DONATIONS: navigating charities
Continued from page 1
organizational transparency and accountability. A charity’s wagepayout-to-overall-income ratio is an important number to note when assessing its general “health.” The general rule is that nonprofit administration costs should not exceed 20 or 35 percent of total income. This ensures a greater portion of every dollar you give goes to provide a service or fund the cost of goods. Today, watchdog groups closely monitor nonprofit spending in the United States. Thanks to their efforts, before you give, you can view these assessments and related documents.
Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org) offers easy-to-understand graphics about local and national charities that make over $1 million. CharityWatch (charitywatch.org) assigns letter grades based on program metrics, fundraising, salary compensation, and transparency. You can also search top-rated charities by category.
For smaller nonprofits, watchdog analysis is not always available. You may need to track down U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS) forms 990 or 990-EZ to see how a charity performs. The ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer (projects.propublica.org/ nonprofits) is a great source for this type of information. The website summarizes certain data by year and publishes many 990-EZ documents. If you wish to look more deeply into the financials of an organization, the IRS department also keeps a database of domestic tax-exempt organizations at apps.irs.gov/app/eos/. The IRS allows you to search charities in an area or learn more about a specific organization. It publishes
990-series forms, determination letters, and notices showing whether a charity has ever been placed on the IRS Auto-Revocation list for not filing the necessary tax forms for three consecutive years. While these documents are not always conclusive, looking at an organization’s income, expenditures, and assets can reveal a lot. Do employee/CEO salaries and benefits make sense for the services provided? Does the organization receive grants? What percentage of the money received by the nonprofit goes back into the community?
The surest way to ensure your community benefits from a contribution, however, is to donate time instead of money. In a 2023 “Nonprofit Sector in Brief” report published by the Urban Institute and National Center for Charitable Statistics, data indicated that volunteer engagement in the U.S. has decreased by about seven percent since the COVID-19 crisis. Many vacancies remain.
Within the Bitterroot Valley, volunteer opportunities abound. The IRS tax-exempt organization database can double as a research tool to find nonprofits near you. Whether it is playing with dogs in need of forever homes at Bitter Root Humane Association, playing bingo with elderly residents of Discovery Care Center, serving drinks at fundraising events like the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce’s Bitterroot Brewfest, or hosting a Can the Cats food drive to ensure a Montana Griz victory over their rivals in charitable competition, however you think your civic contributions might be best expressed, there is a means to do so.
long-term volunteer who is on the board and who has been with the museum since the beginning, said that for her the museum is more than just a pastime. “It has just become part of me,” she said. Hosko is also on the board for the Ravalli County Museum, among others. For her, it is just about remembering the community that has been so important in so many lives. Some could say that is what museums are really about.
The museum is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 4 p.m. Memorial Day to Labor Day. The museum can be contacted by calling (406) 6423997. The address is 125 S. Blake Street, Victor.
Victor Heritage Museum volunteers Maggie Marie Nordenstrom, Suzanne Tout, Brian Langton, Joann Hosko, Phyllis Riedman, Angie Dobberstein and Liz Ingraham stand in the main room of the museum, surrounded by numerous items displayed for the silent auction. Tout said more are coming in, and they hope to outdo themselves, compared to previous years. Photo by John Dowd.
A photo displayed in the museum shows the original museum building as it was moved from its previous home, near East Side Highway. Photo by John Dowd.
Hunting season totals in western Montana still up with one week left in the season
With just under a week left in big game general hunting season, MontanaFish, Wildlife & Parks west-central Montana hunter check stations continue to report elk and deer harvest totals that are up slightly compared to last year. The general season closes on Sunday, Dec. 1.
Harvest numbers started slightly up and have stayed that way season-long in western Montana. Over the past week, snow accumulations in higher elevations helped hunters with tracking conditions and moved wildlife into new, more accessible spots in some parts of the region.
The deer breeding season, also known as the “rut,” has also bumped hunter success over the past few weeks as bucks are moving around more during the day and less cautious. The three main wildlife check stations near Anaconda, Bonner and Darby are reporting 108 mule deer collectively compared to 93 last year and 464 white-tailed deer compared to 376.
FWP reminds hunters that hunting for antlered buck mule deer on the general license ended on Sunday, Nov. 17 in Hunting Districts 204, 212, 213, 214, 215, 217, 240, 292, and 298.
For elk, those same three
hunter check station all show elk harvests up from the 2023 season. Collectively, elk harvest is at 250 through the stations, compared to 208 last season. Elk harvest is also up slightly compared to the fve-year average.
The Fish Creek hunter check station in Mineral County west of Missoula doesn’t operate every weekend of the season and sees fewer hunters than the other stations but does collect important harvest trends and reports from the hunters that visit. This weekend, deer hunter trafc and success were steady, especially on Sunday.
Although wildlife check stations do not account for the entire hunter efort andharvest for an area, they capture important trends and biological information, including unique observations from hunters. 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 stations that they pass, even if they have not harvested any animals.The general big game season closes on Sunday, Dec. 1
COUNCIL: lab updates and land annexation plan
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Bloom also gave the councilors an update on the lab’s ongoing noise control program, which he said gust 23, Bloom reminded the councilors, adding that the ponderosa pine which stands in front of the 4th Street visitor center sufered what he called “heaving.”
The explanation that Bloom has received of the injury indicates massive disturbance and rupture of the root structure due to the strong winds. Such injury, Bloom explained, was certain to kill the tree, meaning that it would represent a safety risk. Based on expert advice, Bloom said that the 50-ton tree would be removed this winter.
“You wouldn’t want that falling across 4th Street,” he said.
In a bit of levity, Bloom concluded his presentation to the councilors by assuring them that at RML, “we don’t do any classifed research there, we don’t work on aliens, and there is no secret bunker under Downing Mountain.”
Later in the meeting, the council also heard, and accepted, a zoning change request from B-1 to B for a 1/4 acre lot at 561 North Daly. The applicant’s stated purpose was for the construction of a single family home, which is not a use allowed by right in the B-1 zone.
The council also heard a request for annexation of the 2.08 acre lot which lies on the southeastern corner of the intersection of Highway 93 and Golf Course Road. The applicant, Josh Pafhausen, informed city staf that his intention was to bring city services of water and sewer to the lot in order that he may be able to obtain a development right on the land. The property has been vacant since the removal several years ago of a large white house which occupied the lot. Pafhausen sought a zoning designation of B-2, a commercial use zone, for the land.
While city staf and the Zoning Commission
recommended approval of the annexation and zoning designation, several area residents did express disapproval of the change. According to the staf report, comments in opposition centered around fears of eventual forced annexation, and the potential scale of future commercial development on the lot. The city council, after consideration of the town’s annexation policy, comprehensive plan and the future land use map, accepted the annexation and zoning designation.
The City of Hamilton will soon include the land adjacent to this sign, following the annexation of the parcel by the Hamilton City Council on November 19. The applicant, Josh Paffhausen, intends to seek a development right for the land, and will do so under the commercial zoning designation B-2. Photo by Nathan Boddy.
2024 Ravalli County H & FFA Livestock Sale
Grand Champion Beef: Owned by Payton Weigle, Purchased by Eslinger Drilling at $8.00/lb
Reserve Champion Beef: Owned by Annalie Cleveland-Gardner, Purchased by Grayhorse Creek Ranch at $7.50/lb
Grand Champion Dairy: Owned by Tayvn Griffin, Purchased by Bobby Harrington at $3,500
Reserve Champion Dairy: Owned by Paytn Griffin, Purchased by Valley Irrigaton, Inc. at $2,250
Grand Champion Market Goat: Owned by Cannon Berkfield, Purchased by Pigman Builders at $21.50/lb
Reserve Champion Market Goat: Owned by Elliana Walz, Purchased by UPI Custom Ag at $16.50/lb
Grand Champion Sheep: Owned by Kealie Hixson, Purchased by Valley Irrigaton, Inc. at $10.00/lb
Reserve Champion Sheep: Owned by Haley O'Hanen, Purchased by Pigman Builders at $10.00/lb
Grand Champion Swine: Owned by Christan Thorness, Purchased by Harpers Les Schwab at $12.50/lb
Reserve Champion Swine: Owned by Hunter Thompson, Purchased by Univ of Montana Campus Dining at $12.00/lb
Billings Northwestern Mutual
Corvallis
Campbell Sheep Ranch
CowPoke Ranch Supply Inc.
Double D Red Angus
Eslinger Drilling
Hat Wood Specialtes LLC
Husted Ranch
Graig Stephens
Tammany Veterinary Hospital
Tim’s Cleaner Carpets and Restoraton
Tintzman Ranch
Valley Irrigaton, Inc.
Darby
CB Ranch LLC
Waddell Creek Ranch
Deer Lodge Daniel Woydick
Florence 4 Hands Dairy
Clint Roberts Real Estate
MTV Constructon
Stacie Storneta
Great Falls
Western Ranch Supply
Hamilton
A2Z Personnel
Advanced Dentstry
Advanced Millwright and Fabricaton, Inc.
All American Sales and Service
ASMUS Jewelers and Coins
Barcus Ranch
Biterroot Health
C4 Trucking
Canyon View Dental
Donaldson Bros Ready Mix Inc
Done Right Foundatons
Flying Hawkes Real Estate
Scot Germann
Hamilton Packing Co
Hamilton Physical Therapy
George Hyde
Spence and Chandra Jackson
Jerry Wessels Tire Center
Ann Johnson
Larry’s Tractors Trailers and More Lee Lumber
Lone Pine Massa Home Center
Mildenberger Motors
Teresa Englund
& Roger Gantz Don & Deborah Gardner
Scot Germann
Glenn Constructon
Global Travel Alliance
Grant Creek Lodge
Hamilton Physical Therapy
Harris Sand and Gravel
Hendrickson Trucking LLC
Hilltop Haven Farm
Hometown Constructon Inc
Brody Huls
Dwinell
Dave & Emily Huls
Murdochs Ranch and Home Supply
Biterroot
Marjorie Huls
Spencer & Kate Huls
J&J Excavatng and Trucking LLC
Spence & Chandra Jackson
Jerry Wessels Tire Center Andy & Terry Johnson Lisa and Doug Johnson
Johnstone Jones Leather and Livestock Jeffrey J. Karvandi, MDM, PLLC Bobbie Ketelhut
Haylof Saloon
Lakeland Feed
Lee Lumber
Lucky U Catle
Ben & Michelle Meyer
Mildenberger Motors
Modern Machinery
Bonnie & John Morgan
Mountain West Co-Op
Becky Myers
Nentwig Enterprises
Never Sweat Ranch
Nine Pipes Lodge
The 4-H members, FFA Chapters and 4-H Council give a “Heartelt
Thanks” to the following supporters of the Livestock Sale:
Auctoneers: Rick Peverley, Jim Ellis
Ringmen: Lisa Hamilton, Thomas Plaisted-Harman, Fritz Robinson
Clerks: Casey Beard, Andrea Dunlop, Krista Hall, Ashley Lee, Tara Petz, Josie Rouse, Ivy and Jenelle Semple, Jeanete Smith, Tami VanKirk
Buyers’ Registraton Table: Hope Earp, Katelyn Andersen
Photographers: James Banister (all grand champions, sheep, goats), Brady Hall (swine), Taylor Weigle (beef, dairy)
Sale Breakfast Coordinator: April Hawkes
Brand Inspecton: Jody Hood
North West Feeds
Marilyn & Tim Oren
Mat & Theresa Pendergast
Tyler & Abby Pendergast
Larry and Barb Peterson Pigman Builders
Pure West Christes
R & L Excavaton
Rachel Kramer Insurance Agency
Rahnhaus Kennels
Red Oak Constructon
Amber & Bobby Reich
Caron Reinke
Brooke Rocre
Mary Rodriguez Sean and Kirah Roe
Safeway
Janice & Bud Sept
Shepherds Garage Inc
Show Sisters Sheep Co.
SS Staffing Inc.
Stevensville FFA Alumni & Supporters
Stacie Storneta
Sun Peak Constructon
Many Thanks to our Support/Resale
Buyers: Big Creek Dairy
Hamilton Packing Company
Bobby Harrington Northwest Building Solutons
And all the behind-the-scenes people who make all of this happen. We apologize if we have missed anyone.
Swartz & Sons Excavatng Inc.
Tamarack Health DPC
Tammany Veterinary Hospital
Steve & Jan Tawater Taylor King
Chris Thorson
Weigle Show Cate Wide Angle Art
Tim and Debbie Wiediger
Richard & Lydia Woirhaye
Dan & Karen Wolsky
A Special Thank You to those who have helped with sale expenses:
Biterroot
Heidi Eter
Evans Ace Hardware First
Deborah & Don Gardner
Missoula Motor Company
Tori
The
Grand Champion Dairy Owner: Paytn Griffin Buyer: Bobby Harrington
Grand Champion Sheep Owner: Kealie Hixson Buyer: Valley Irrigaton, Inc.
Grand Champion Swine Owner: Christan Thorness Buyer: Harpers Les Schwab
Grand Champion Market Goat Owner: Cannon Berkfield Buyer: Pigman Builders
Country Christmas &
Friday, December 6 Parade is scheduled for 6:30 pm followed by -
- T’was the Night Before Christmas
- The Christmas Story - Fire Pits at Cenex & StoryBrook Medicine - Carriage Rides
Main Street Business Specials & Activities
Blacksmith Brewing - exciting new brews! On the patio - firepits, free s’mores & Christmas movies.
Ahava Coffe - will be at Big Sky Doghouse with free hot cocoa & candy canes.
Eickert Realty - lighting of their annual Christmas decorations at 6:00 pm.
Trapper Peak & Lydia Rae Mercantile - open until 8pm! Coffee, food & pastry specials. Free cider bar on the patio, & Santa Jr handing out cookies.
ReMain - teaming up with Shadow Moon Alchemy to offer “Mom Bombs” (bath bombs) to the first 25 women through the door at 102 Main.
Burning Stage Studio - open until 6:30 offering great holiday shopping, hot beverages & treats.
Darcy Hansen State Farm - hosting an open house with warm drinks & holiday goodies.
Historic St Mary’s Mission - Nativities around the world & Christmas decorations. Historic chapel open house & wreath autcion. Open Friday through Sunday.
Jake’s Studio - extended hours showcasing local artists & custom leather work
Exit Realty - cookies, hot chocolate & goodies for the kids from 4 to 7 pm.
A2Z Personnel - Parade of Trees will be in full force with in person tree voting, and online & in person auction.
Hat Edit - open until 9 pm Friday with a big Santa Mailbox for kids to drop off letters to Santa. Extended activities on Saturday with free Santa pictures, kids activities, food truck, drink trailer & fire pit.
Valley Drug - stories & picture with Mrs. Claus, long with treats for the kids.
Groovz Dance Studio - hosting their annual fundraiser with games & crafts upstairs for kids, along with a bake sale & hot chocolate outside.
Heads up!
An article in the Bitterroot Star the week of 11-3-24 introduced us to the new microchip gas manufacturing plant being built here in Stevensville. When near the end of the article, many reassurances of safety measures being taken compelled me to read up on the topic. What I found overwhelmed me.
There are over 30 gases needed in the development of the chips, diferent gases for each stage of development. Learning about the gases that will be manufactured was frightening, to say the least.
Most of the gases needed for production are, and I quote, “extremely toxic.” A few examples are:
Arsine gas from the Arsenic group. Arsine is needed for the ‘doping’ process. “It is a colorless and almost odorless, fammable, highly toxic gas which has been used as a chemical warfare agent; extremely toxic by inhalation.”
Then there is Boron gas, also used in the doping stage. It has been shown to cause male and female reproductive toxicity, genetic defects, cancer and other mutagenicities. It too is extremely fammable, and “if exposed to moisture it releases toxic corrosive gases causing eye, skin and oral corrosion.”
Next we have Fluorine, from the Halogen gases. “The most reactive element known, so that asbestos, water and silicon burst into fame in its presence.” Again, highly toxic.
At this point I could not go on with my research. It was too disturbing.
Here is yet one more example of our community learning of something after the fact. No discussion, inquiries, or input from the residents allowed. Just like the rare earth mine, and the roundabout on 93. Now this.
15 new highly paid jobs! What a trade of.
Heads up, Stevensville and the Bitterroot Valley!
J. Thomas Stevensville Daines,
the backstabber
Things move quickly, nowadays. And, if I’m not mistaken, Senator Steve Daines (RINO-MT) is the very frst elected Republican to back-stab President-elect Trump… this time around.
Fast work, Senator. Montanans and the American electorate gave President-elect Trump a clear mandate. President-elect Trump signaled clearly to the Senate his preference for a Senate Majority Leader. President-elect Trump, the leader of the GOP, should get his picks for ofce, including a senate leader who will work with him to enact his agenda.
But Sen. Daines is much too self-important for that, much too dedicated to the Old Corruption. He nominated and sup-
ported fellow back-stabber Senator Thune (RINO-SD). Clearly, the GOP swamp-creatures have no intention of honoring the will of the voters. Nor will GOP swamp-creatures like Daines work with President-elect Trump to save America.
It is time for them to go. Les Waldron Hamilton
Dear ‘Proud Montana Dems’
I am a refugee here in the beautiful state of Montana. I used to live south of Darby, way south of Darby, in a state called California. I was a ffth generation Californian and loved the diverse landscapes in the second most beautiful state (after Montana of course) in this wonderful USA. In fact I like to say that California is a 5 star hotel run by very bad management. But California began to completely change when the Democrats took more power. Places that I once loved turned into a complete disaster. You couldn’t go anywhere without homeless people harassing you as soon as you exited your car. Parks and beaches were full of trash and human waste. Restaurants were a gauntlet to even get in the door and you were always afraid that someone would mug you. When you got a chance to go into the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains, you were confronted by most of the landscape covered with grafti in Spanish, as the Mexican gangs controlled most of the mountain areas so they could grow marijuana on public lands.
The state government had turned
almost completely Democrat. Out of 100 members in the state assembly, 15 were Republican. They, and we, didn’t get a vote that even mattered. And the state became a complete crap hole.
So, we left. Sold our beautiful home, left our wonderful friends, and moved to a “red” state. Along with thousands of other mostly conservative former Californians. In fact, there’s a Facebook page called “Leaving California.”
Here’s a great idea for all you “proud Montana Democrats.” Leave, move to Commiefornia with “your people.” Don’t stay here and screw up Montana like you totally screwed up California. Oh, you have other choices, Oregon, Washington, or how about that wonderful state of Delaware? They just elected a trans congressman, or is it congresswoman? They don’t even know. Just get out! James K. Rummell Corvallis
Thanks from Imagination Library
Due to the eforts of many, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library coordinated and donated a total of 1,485 children’s books for preschoolers to fourth grade to the African Library Project. The books are being delivered to two schools in Kenya. Another 200+ books were donated to local food banks. Darby Elementary School collected over 1,100 books. Daly Elementary and Curious Minds Preschool
donated the remaining books.
Many thanks to all who helped make this possible. First and foremost, the students who eagerly participated with the support of Principal Chris Toynbee and Sarah Grifn, teacher, at Darby Elementary; Jessica Dufresne, librarian at Daly Elementary; and Sierra Parke, Director at Curious Minds Preschool.
The UPS Store in Hamilton generously donated the boxes, tape and shipping to the US warehouse in New Orleans. The Greater Bitterroot Women’s Club donated the money to ship the books from the US to Africa. Friends and their kids loaded and carried boxes and my bookclub ladies helped sort hundreds of books by age levels. Chapter One donated packing paper and bookseller David, with volunteer Adlin, packed, taped and delivered the boxes to the UPS Store. Thank you to everyone who made this happen!
Books can change lives, open hearts and create possibilities. We have 1,282 children from birth to fve in Ravalli County receiving free books each month from the Imagination Library. To sign up your child go to: imaginationlibraryravallicounty.com or your local library. Syble Solomon, Coordinator, Dolly Parton Imagination Library, Ravalli County
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
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 faithbased 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
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.
Dances of Universal Peace
The Dances of Universal Peace are simple circle dances that use sacred phrases, chants, music and movements from many of the world’s wisdom traditions. New and experienced dancers form a circle and create the experience together. The leader teaches the words, melody and movement before each Dance.
No musical or dance experience is necessary. Sunday, December 1, 4-6 pm. Open ended expressive arts, 201 Daly Avenue, Hamilton. By donation. Scent free. Kids welcome. More info: 406-546-5344.
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 frst Monday in December 2024, from 3 to 8 p.m.; bidding will close at 7:30 p.m. OutWest Wagons will give wagon rides around Victor starting at 4 p.m. Come and enjoy the camaraderie, bidding on silent auction items and the chocolate. The cost for this event is $5.00 for ages 5 years and older. The Museum is on the corner of Main St. and Blake Streets. The Museum celebrated its 35th birthday in September 2024. Its success has been made possible with the support of the people of the Bitterroot Valley. For more information call Suzanne Tout at 406-381-8861, or the Museum at 406-642-3997.
Holiday Bookorations to Beneft Library
The annual Holiday Bookorations event to beneft the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville will be held Dec. 6 as part of Stevensville’s Country Christmas. This yearly fundraiser will take place from 5 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room of the library in conjunction with the curated Adult
Sherif’s Ofce Citizen’s Academy returns
Residents of Ravalli County will once again have the opportunity to experience the day to day happenings at the Sherif’s Ofce as a Citizen’s Academy course is set to start in February of 2025. The eightweek course was designed to familiarize citizens with several aspects of the Sherif’s Ofce, covering everything from patrol and investigations to Detention Center operations and drug education. The Academy consists of both classroom and hands-on training. Training Sergeant Brad Weston, who organizes the Academy, stated, “I truly think it’s a great program. It provides insight into what law enforcement is really like and gives a very well rounded perspective to the public. We are able to interact with the community, make connections and get to know people.”
According to Weston, each of the classes in the eight-week course will be taught by a diferent instructor, with representation from each branch of the agency. Instructors are deputies and personnel from the Sherif’s Ofce who speak on their areas of expertise, as well as specialized guest speakers. The course is free but limited to 20 attendees. There are a few requirements to attend; applicants must be at least 18 years of age, reside in Ravalli County, and must be willing to attend all scheduled classes. Applicants are also subject to a criminal background check, and
are chosen at the discretion of the Sherif’s Administration. Participants will be encouraged to schedule a ride-along with a sworn deputy.
Classes start on Wednesday, February 5 and will be held at the Ravalli County Search and Rescue building in Hamilton. Class times are 6 to 9 p.m., with the possibility of a Saturday class from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“We are excited to hold another RCSO Citizen’s Academy,” said Sherif Steve Holton. “These Academies are an excellent way to interact with our community members and provide insight into the day to day operations of their Sherif’s Ofce and county government. I thank Sergeant Brad Weston and Community Outreach Coordinator Kristin Kruse for their hard work getting this Academy scheduled and look forward to meeting the new class.”
If interested in applying, pick up an application at the Sherif’s Ofce at 205 Bedford St. Suite G. in Hamilton, or visit the website https:// ravalli.us/245/sherif and
send or deliver the application to the Sherif’s Ofce.
Training Sergeant Bradley Weston. Photo by kristin Kruse.
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Sports Corvallis weightlifter is a champion
In 2017, Donna Weidow of Corvallis knew she needed a change. She felt unhealthy, she wanted to lose weight, she was tired all the time, she wanted to fnd a way to feel better.
A trainer friend told her she should start going to a gym, but Weidow thought gyms were only for body builder types and she was intimidated. But she signed up anyway and started lifting weights and taking steps to improve her nutrition.
This decision changed Weidow’s life.
She started eating better and exercising regularly. As a result she got stronger, was in a better mood, wasn’t tired all the time and just felt better overall. People started noticing her improvement and wanted in on the secret.
As she shared her story, she realized she wanted to help others fnd the same success she had. But what was the best way to do that: should she be a body-
builder, a trainer, or an infuencer? She wasn’t sure, but she knew it was the feld she wanted to be in.
Two years later, in 2019, Weidow competed in her frst lifting competition and that changed everything.
“I watched an older woman benching,” said Weidow. “She was struggling to push the bar up, then the crowd started cheering louder and louder and the bar got higher and higher, and she completed the lift. I looked around and said, ‘I want to do that!’ Around me were people of all ages, all shapes and sizes, everyone was so supportive.”
After this, Weidow and her husband began training for competitive lifting. This decision sent Weidow on a path that culminated in her becoming a world champion lifter this fall.
At the WABDL (World Association of Benchers and Dead Lifters) Worlds in Las Vegas on Nov. 8, Weidow shined. She won fve gold medals and one silver. She competed in her weight class in both the open class and the 47-53 Masters class in the Bench, Deadlift and the Push/Pull (both combined).
The highlight of the event for Weidow was when she earned the Outstanding Lifter Award for Best Bench Press in the Raw Women’s 47-53 Division, meaning she had the best lift for any woman between the ages of 47 and 53 in any weight class. She had benched 198 pounds.
Two months earlier at a USPA (United States Powerlifting Association) event in Arizona, Weidow broke four national records in her division for the Squat, Bench, Deadlift and Total. She squatted 342.82 lbs, benched 181.88 lbs, and deadlifted 352.74 lbs totaling 877.44 lbs. Her squat weight put her at #6 in the world at the time, and her total put
her #8 in the world.
At 51 years old, Weidow is now seven years removed from that initial decision to change her health, and she is still as enthusiastic about weight lifting as ever. Weidow and her husband, Devin, who is also a lifter and a trainer, have built a 30- by 40-foot home gym.
“It’s just for us, with his and hers platforms,” said Weidow. “It’s our life. We are invested in getting stronger ourselves and helping other people get stronger.”
As a means of avoiding the loss of physical ftness that comes with aging, lifting weights is a pretty good option. We lose muscle mass and strength as we grow older, and once we near 70 this loss is accelerated. This decline makes everyday tasks difcult and the limited mobility leads to higher rates of falls, chronic disease, nursing home admission, and mortality. Doctors recommend physical activity including weight lifting to slow this process down. Weidow would agree wholeheartedly.
When she isn’t competing, Weidow is a referee for local and regional events and competitions.
“The competitions are such an uplifting thing to be around,” said Weidow, “and we just want to be a part of it.” Weidow wants to keep improving. “I’m going to take some time to enjoy the results and let my body heal, then I’ll start ramping up again to get ready next year for either the WABDL Worlds or the USPA nationals next.”
For those on the fence about lifting, Weidow thinks they should jump right in.
“Anyone who wants to get ft,” said Weidow, “this type of training is so good for all ages. I see kids, teenagers, middle agers, seniors, all out here bettering themselves. When I frst started I was intimidated by going into a gym. But I overcame that fear and once you start, you realize how nice and inviting everyone is. It is such a great community of people.”
There will be a weightlifting event in Missoula on December 7. It’s a USPA sanctioned event at the Missoula Underground Strength and Training Center.
“You should really come check it out,” says Weidow. “You’ll have so much fun!”
Local golf teams receive donation
Representatives from the Hamilton Women’s Golf Association (HWGA) recently delivered checks totaling over $5000 to the golf programs of Corvallis, Darby, Hamilton and Stevensville High Schools and the Hamilton Golf Course earlier this month. The teams can use the funds to cover any number of expenses and the Hamilton Golf Course is for the purchase of a commercial grade chain saw.
As you would expect, the HWGA believes in the importance of golf as a high school sport. In their fundraising literature they say,“Golf has long been recognized for the life skills and character it develops in our youth, most specifcally: respect, honesty, healthy lifestyle, manners, and athleticism.”
“We hope the funds will help with the various expenses that the teams need money for,” said Rainey Warner, a HWGA Board Member. “One of the best parts was seeing the reaction from the schools. They had so many great reactions – appreciation,
gratitude, smiles, happiness – all of those words. It’s one of those games you can play your whole life.”
The HWGA is a non-proft organization that is funded through annual fees from the Hamilton Golf Club Women’s golf league. They also hold an annual all-women’s golf tournament as a fundraiser. This year’s tournament was a huge success through the support of local businesses. “We realize that businesses in the valley are asked a lot to support the community and we are so grateful to them, and they were so generous this year,” said Warner. “So they were overjoyed to be able to give the schools the extra help. We really stepped up our fundraising this year, so we were able to give a good amount to the school programs.”
The HWGA plays every Tuesday and Thursday morning at 9 a.m., as well as every Wednesday
Hamilton’s Bennett signs with Northwest Nazarene
Hamilton senior Evan Bennett signed his letter of intent to run indoor and outdoor track and cross country at Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) in a ceremony at Hamilton High School on Monday, November 18.
“I really liked the environment when I went to visit there,” said Bennett. “All the people were super kind and welcoming.”
Bennett has been a standout in both track and cross country at Hamilton High School. Bennett took 2nd last year as a junior at the Class A State Track Meet in both the 400m (49.74) and the 800m (1:55.33), and he took 2nd at state in the 800m (158.72) as a sophomore.
“I have been really close to getting a state
championship in track over the last couple of years,” said Bennett, “so my goal this year is to win state in the 400m and 800m. And I want to go under 49 seconds in the 400m and under 1:53 in the 800m.”
Bennett was impressed with the facilities and resources of NNU and was able to talk with some of the professors.
“I’m interested in studying sports psychology,” said Bennett, “but I know I’m still young and I may fnd something else that I like, so I am open to that.
NNU is a private university in Nampa, Idaho, just outside of Boise, and is one of eight U.S. liberal arts colleges afliated with the Church of the Nazarene. In 2023, NNU had an undergraduate enrollment of 1,774. The NNU Nighthawks are an NCAA Division II school and compete primarily in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference.
Evan’s parents are Kristen and Travis Bennett of Hamilton.
evening beginning in early May. The season ends around the last week in September, weather permitting of course.
Donna Weidow deadlifts at a USPA (United States Powerlifting Association) event earlier this year. Photo courtesy of Donna Weidow.
Hamilton senior Evan Bennett signed his letter of intent to run indoor and outdoor track and cross country at Northwest Nazarene University (NNU) next year. Photo courtesy of Travis Bennett.
Representatives from the Hamilton Women’s Golf Association (HWGA) present a check to Corvallis High School. The HWGA donated over $5000 in total to the golf programs of Corvallis, Darby, Hamilton, and Stevi, and the Hamilton Golf Club. Photo courtesy of Hamilton Golf Club.
Donna Weidow of Corvallis with her medals from the WABDL (World Association of Benchers and Dead Lifters) Worlds in Las Vegas on Nov. 8. She won fve gold medals and one silver in Bench, Deadlift and the Push/Pull. Photo courtesy of Donna Weidow.
Joy ‘Earline’ Esmay
Joy “Earline” (Byrd) Esmay passed away on 11/17/2024 In Missoula, Montana from Alzheimer’s disease, aspiration pneumonia. She was preceded in death by her brothers (Gerald, Larry), nephew (Dalin), brothers-in-law (Don, Bob), sisters-in-law (Sally, Zelda).
Earline was born in Littlefeld, Texas on December 8, 1939, to Roy A. and Mildred (Miller) Byrd. As a child, Earline lived on family farms in the West Texas Panhandle. Although most of her childhood memories have been lost over the years, her children remember her saying that they didn’t know what hard work was, because they never picked cotton like she had to as a child (however, she was afectionately known as the “Slave Driver” by her kids). In her teenage years, the family moved to Draper, South Dakota, where she married Jerry Esmay in 1957 and graduated high school in 1958. Earline subsequently graduated from beauty School in 1959. Earline and Jerry raised three children, daughter Jera’le (Oregon 1961), son Keith (Texas 1966), and son Justin (Alabama 1968). As Jerry served in the military (frst the Air Force and then the Army) the family moved often to various military bases. From 1975 to 1978, the family lived in Kitzingen Germany, where Earline got hooked on Birkenstocks, espresso, and fne dining. Around 1980, and for the next 20 or so years, Earline spent much of her time restoring historical houses. Family and friends who knew her said she could take junk and turn it into something beautiful. In 1983, the
Death Notices
family moved to Stevensville, MT and purchased what would be another one of her “projects.” Earline and Jerry decided to divorce in 1989. Around that time, she established ‘Earline’s – Simply the Best’ hand squeezed fresh lemonade business. In 1998, Earline was in a near fatal car accident on Highway 93 near Stevensville, receiving a skull fracture among other injuries. In recent years, Earline was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease. Since then, son Keith, daughter Jera’le, sister-inlaw Gayle, and friends/caregivers helped her with everyday tasks, so that she could remain in comfort at home. In August of 2024, all involved in Earline’s care decided she needed more support, so moved her into The Springs, Footsteps Memory Care facility in Missoula, MT. When Earline was not working with lemonade or home remodels/restorations, one could usually fnd her in her fowerbed or relaxing at her patio. Earline also enjoyed getting away from Montana in the winter, to spend time with her sisters in Arizona. Earline never re-married, but did enjoy many years of company with her good friend Scott.
Earline is survived by her two sisters (Doris, Cathie), three children (Jera’le, Keith, Justin), two sisters-in-law (Gayle, Dixie), two brothers-inlaw (Chuck, Bill), son-in-law (Bob), daughter-inlaw (Tami), four grandchildren (Angela, Jessie, Riley, Quintin), numerous nieces and nephews.
A celebration of life social will be held in Stevensville on Saturday, June 21, 2025. Please see the June 4, 11, or 18 edition of the
newspaper for time and location of this event.
JoAnn Sprague Stevensville - JoAnn Sprague, 80, passed away at the Living Centre on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 after a long illness. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
Jaccilynne Renee Spade Alberton - Jaccilynne Renee Spade, 36, passed away at home on Saturday, November 16, 2024. Condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
Mana ● female ● 3 yrs Mana is incredibly affectionate and loves to show her cute, funny, and gentle side. She enjoys meeting new people and is a loyal companion to those she knows and loves. She’s also smart and independent, making her the perfect companion for anyone looking for an adventure buddy.
Bitterroot Star
‘For the Beauty of the Earth...’
Thanksgiving is never complete without my hearing the old hymn that begins with ”for the beauty of the earth.” I’ll play it on my tin whistle if I don’t hear it anywhere else.
For the beauty of the earth, For the beauty of the skies, For the love which from our birth
Over and around us lies..
While our Civil War was at its height of desolation and carnage in 1863 a young Englishman named Folliott Sandford Pierpoint walked to the top of a hill above his village and saw leaves turning color and wildfowers dotting the meadow between him and the town’s old buildings.
malice, more charity; less suspicion, more trust; less division, more friendship and fellowship. And, I might add, an eye turned toward the Creation, human love, and gentle thoughts the young Pierpont envisioned and made immortal during his quiet walk on an English hillside.
by Chuck Stranahan
In that idyllic setting he wrote of giving thanks to God while his cousins overseas were at war with each other.
For the wonder of each hour
For the beauty of the earth: Here in the Bitterroot Valley I’m thankful that fall has revealed much of the earth’s beauty that was shrouded in smoke through the summer. We got to see the leaves turning color, experience the valley rains and the frst dustings of mountain snows that fnally washed the air clean.
I can be gratefully and humbly thankful for that, and I am.
Flyfshing is at the center of my connection to the beauty of this patch of earth that I call home. It opens the doors to much that I wouldn’t see and experience otherwise, deepens my
can bring to it as I see familiar patterns develop: how much of this snow, in the way it is accumulating, will fnd its way into the aquifers that will charge the river through the summer? And how much of it will be swept away through runof? And how much of it will I have to shovel of my driveway?
Most of this speculation, save for the shoveling part, I see in terms of the systems that support my fshing.
I cannot think of snowfall, and runof, without thinking of fre, and the loss of watershed lodgepole pines that once held the snowpack under a shaded canopy to run of gradually through the course of the summer. That was before two decades of fres.
Looking at the ever-changing landscape of my back deck, now snowy, and soon to bud with the promise of new life in the spring, I see each present day as part of a longer set of cycles.
The beautiful autumn leaves that decay in the streams and rivers will again nourish the chains of life that wait underneath the white snowfall as I return to the vise and tie a few more fies.
If it weren’t for my fy rod, and the fies I tie, and the urge to fsh that draws me out there, I’d miss it.
And then there is, in the words of the hymnist, “the joy of human love, brother, sister, parent , child…friends on earth and gentle thoughts and mild… “
My dearest friends and close family, my wife, children, and grandchildren, all share with me the sense of beauty that we experience when we’re out in what we call the Creation, and they are an integral part of that.
For the beauty of the earth – for family, friends, gentle thoughts and love - please join me this year, if only for a little while, to give thanks.
A community celebration benefting Biterroot Valley Non-Profts. Join us at Hamilton City Hall, 223 S. 2nd Street, Hamilton Nov. 29 - Dec. 2
FESTIVALTREES of Schedule of Event
FRIDAY November 29th
OPENING NIGHT 6 - 9 pm
Ugly Sweater Christmas Karaoke Bash
$10 tickets available online OR $15 cover charge at the door
Christmas Tree Viewing
Silent Tree Auction Starts at 6 pm
SATURDAY November 30th
FAMILY DAY 10 AM - 9 PM
Tea Room in the Trees 11 am - 8 pm
Teddy Bear in the Trees 1 - 4 pm tickets available online
Hot Toddy in the Trees 7:30 - 9 pm
Live Entertainment 11 am - 1 pm
SUNDAY December 1st
FAMILY DAY 10 am - 8 pm
Cookie Decorating & Storytime with Mrs. Claus 1 - 4 pm tickets available online
Tea Room in the Trees 11 am - 8 pm
Live Entertainment 11 am - 4 pm
Tree of Lights Memorial Service 5:30 pm
MONDAY, December 2nd
LAST DAY
Buyers’ Dinner in the Trees
5:30 pm Cocktail Hour
6:30 pm Dinner tickets available online
SAFE: expanding opportunity for
Continued from page 1
wish SAFE didn’t have to exist,” however, “our community is blessed to have them.” Farrenkopf was there to cut the ribbon and also to fundraise for SAFE.
Stacey Umhey, SAFE executive director, also spoke before the ribbon cutting. “This is the day we get to be just grateful,” said Umhey. She thanked several organizations and individuals, including the City of Hamilton, for supporting them for 13 months, as well as “putting their trust in us to steward some pretty signifcant grant funding.”
Umhey told the story of how the expansion project was started. During this, she thanked Gary Locke, with the Bitterroot Family Shelter. Umhey said he is the one that contacted Umhey, saying there would be a city meeting discussing available funding. She attended that meeting, under the impression that she was there in support of Locke. However, he did not show up for his organization. To her surprise, he encouraged her to attend with the objective in mind that the funding was to support SAFE and an expansion of their shelter.
Finally, she thanked the staf, who had one of their busiest years ever. Over the last year, the staf answered over 500 emergency calls, provided over 3,525 nights of shelter to over 70 people and saw to it that nearly 90 sex crimes were reported. Proud of their past year, and excited for the future, Umhey added, “You guys, we did it! We built a shelter!”
The new facility includes eight bedrooms, six of which have their own bathrooms. Brooke Angst, SAFE director of marketing and development, later added that these rooms may accommodate several family members, such as mother and children. The new expansion also includes a large private gathering space, which Umhey is extremely excited about. “We didn’t even have a table big enough for a family to sit down at,” said Umhey. “Now, multiple families can sit together and have a meal.”
For Umhey, a lot of the project has come to allow “Opportunity to gather.” That sense of support is important to the mission of SAFE.
Furthering that point, on the other side of the new expanded building, there is another big meeting room for fundraising and events, as well as a kitchen, ofces and a childcare/ playroom. This space will be utilized for SAFE’s weekly child support group. The increased space will not only allow SAFE to house more people seeking support, but also allow many more opportunities for people involved with the program to congregate.
SAFE was founded by the Soroptomists of Hamilton in 1988. The organization was renamed SAFE in 1991. Umhey got involved with SAFE in 1997, after moving to the area from Syracuse, New York. She worked for a similar organization there and was hired on as program coordinator for SAFE. In 1999, she became executive director.
“update the way we do shelter.” This was because they have gotten so many calls the last few years. According to Angst, they need to turn down an average of 40 families a year. “That is unacceptable,” added Angst.
mid-2022 and handles fundraising, events and donors. She said the job is extremely fulflling. She is so thankful for the immense support from the community and believes part of this support comes from SAFE’s proven track record.
The organization started as a network of safe homes for threatened women and their children. Eventually the organization got their own home and thought about one day having a large shelter. Over the years, SAFE grew to include several safe spaces for families, including transitional housing, allowing families a place in the interim while looking for permanent housing.
In 1995, a private philanthropist purchased the property in Hamilton that SAFE would begin to use for their temporary and transitional housing. The same space was utilized for ofces and other services provided by SAFE. The property was also the location on which the expansion would take place. According to Umhey, they needed to
Umhey said the new space will provide more opportunities to families, allowing SAFE to avoid having to turn people away. Not only that, but the space itself is “so much more supportive of safety and healing,” said Umhey. For her, it will also be much more of a “great launching pad,” for a “more supportive future,” for families.
Umhey spoke on the additions that promote that feeling of safety and security. Working with the architecture frm, she said she learned how spaces can help or hinder people in healing from trauma. To this end, the rooms all have doors that can be locked, and peep holes so “they don’t ever have to open their doors without knowing who is on the other side,” said Umhey.
Angst has been with SAFE since
Angst described the new expansion as “beautiful” and “amazing for our survivors.” She agreed with Umhey, saying that it provides them with more opportunities to heal. “We are just really excited to be reconnected and to continue to do all the work we are good at,” said Angst. Interested parties can visit SAFE’s website, www.safeinthebitterroot. org to volunteer or donate. They are always looking for volunteers for the thrift store, as well, and they have a long Amazon wishlist of things they need. That information is available as well. SAFE can be contacted by calling (406) 363-2793. Their 24-hour crisis line is available, for anyone in an emergency or in fear for their life, by calling (406) 363-4600.
Stacey Umhey and Brooke Angst in one of the new meeting rooms, added to the SAFE shelter in Hamilton. This particular room is destined for fundraiser meetings, conferences and learning opportunities. Photo by John Dowd.
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.
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Legal Notices
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:
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, 11-2724.
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
NOTICE OF SELF
STORAGE SALE
Please take notice Park River Storage located at 17 Red Ranch Rd. Stevensville MT 59870 intends to hold an Auction of storage units in default of payment. The sale shall occur as an online auction via www.lockerfox.com on 12/5/2024 at 10:30AM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Unit #85. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice.
BS 11-27-24.
MNAXLP
PUBLIC NOTICE
Whittecar Rife Range will hold its annual membership meeting on January 9, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Range, 578 Blodgett View Road, Hamilton.
BS 11-27, 12-26-24
MNAXLP
NOTICE
The frst half of the 2024 Real Estate Taxes are due payable before 5 PM, December 6, 2024. We have a Night Drop located at
North end of Administration Building in drive through. Mail payments must be postmarked by December 6, 2024 or the payment will be returned for penalty and interest. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express cards are accepted. Also accepting online payments at www.Ravalli.us/196/ Property-Tax. Paying with Credit/Debit card will include a 2.15% convenience fee and $1.25 Transaction Fee.
Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt 215 S 4th St Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600
BS 11-27, 12-4-24.
MNAXLP
NOTICE
The second half of the 2024 Mobile Home Taxes are due payable before 5 pm December 6, 2024. We have a Night Drop located at North end of Administration Building in drive thru. Mailed payments must be postmarked by December 6, 2024 or the payment will be returned for penalty and interest. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express cards are accepted. Also accepting online payments at www. Ravalli.us/196/Property-Tax. Paying with Credit/Debit card will include a 2.15% convenience fee and $1.25 Transaction Fee. Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt 215 S 4th St Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600 BS 11-27, 12-4-24. MNAXLP
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Kathryn Joyce Snyder, Kathryn
Joyce Snyder, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20240000412-NC
Dept. 1
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Kathryn Joyce Snyder to Kathryn Joyce Armstrong. The hearing will be on January 8, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County. DATED this 13th day of November, 2024. /s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court By: Michelle Goldman Deputy Clerk of Court BS 11-27, 12-4, 12-11, 12-18-24. MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HAROLD ARTHUR FESSLER, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-2024129 Dept. No.: 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Tim Fessler has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said Decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Tim Fessler, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd St., Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court. BS 11-27, 12-4, 12-1124. MNAXLPPosting Date November 25, 2024
River Recreation Advisory Council to address increased use
After a three-day workshop in October and a follow-up meeting earlier this month, the River Recreation Advisory Council (RRAC) submitted recommendations to Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks for managing river recreation and administering the use of water-related activities.
With an increase in river recreationists, user conficts and access-point congestion have become more frequent. The council members, who were selected by FWP Director
Dustin Temple, were tasked with addressing these challenges by developing a set of recommendations for managing river recreation.
The council recommends that FWP develop a statewide river recreation management plan to refect the current situation. This would include incorporating existing rules, the River Recreation Management Planning Manual, and current river management plans; providing guidance on how to manage rivers; devising a data
collection framework; identifying river use and types; and hiring additional personnel to meet management needs.
The council also developed a set of questions that would help FWP decide if a particular river or stretch or river needs to go through a full-scale planning process. These questions would identify the type and severity of an issue, determine if enough data is available or still needs to be collected, and whether the river or stretch of river has ever been reviewed for recre-
ational conditions and concerns. Depending on the answers to these types of questions, FWP would decide if a recommendation should be ofered to the Fish and Wildlife Commission to initiate the planning process. An opportunity for public comment will be open until Dec. 23. To review the recommendations and to comment, go to fwp.mt.gov/aboutfwp/commission-councils-committees/river-recreation-advisory-council.
SWANSON’S: adding value to heritage crop
Continued fom page 1
“Washington has a lot of good quality apples but they sit in coolers and freezers for six months. We have fresh apples and fresh cider,” said Kindall.
The relatively small number of trees of so many diferent varieties makes for an interesting and exciting early season which the Mouws pretty much handle. A lot of them are early ripeners. But in late September when the bulk of the apples – the Macs, Empires and Spartans –start to ripen, they have a crew come in from Washington state to help out. They can pick up to 350,000 pounds of apples in 10 days. In the very early days of the orchard, people could come and pick up the windfalls for a reduced price. But health concerns and insurance companies put a stop to that. The Mouws now use farm
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animals to clean up the orchard grounds and you can often see their Kune Kune pigs roaming the orchard and munching down on the fallen apples. They have also recently purchased a windfall harvester. There is very little waste in the whole operation. Using the windfall harvester, they can feed their pigs, and some miniature cattle, apples for about six months out of the year. They also feed the mushy pulp called pumice left over from pressing the apples into cider to the animals. According to Ryan, the meat tastes sweeter from all the apples in their diet and they plan on integrating a small amount of meat sales into their operation, maybe fve steers and some pork.
Making cider is a big part of the operation and they have already produced 5,000 gallons for sale this year and the total will probably reach about 8,000 gallons by the end of the season. They also recently announced last month a new partnership with Western Cider where they are the primary grower for their McIntosh hard cider. Western Cider will be pressing their MacIntosh apples at Swanson’s orchard in November.
One customer-produced idea is to add apple cider donuts to their store, which they hope to do next year and a longer-term plan is to add a distillery and produce their own apple cider brandy. They are interested in integrating other value-added products from around the valley into their store as well.
One of the most exciting additions to the operation was the introduction of a threepound ‘grab bag’ to the market this year. Ryan said that in the old days a lot of people bought a lot of apples, two or three bushels at a time, and did a lot of cooking and canning. These days the market has shifted and there are many more people just looking for a small number of apples to eat. These new 3-lb. bags are feeding into that market at an exciting rate.
Community involvement has always been a part of the orchard, according to Kendall. “During our frst annual U-pick days that we held this season, we had over 300 families come to our farm,” she said. “Julie was always very supportive of the kids and the schools in the valley. She was a teacher. So, we
are doing things they planted the seeds for.” This year they hosted about 15 feld trips for kids to tour the farm and are pushing hard to expand the farm-toschool sales part of the operation.
With the help of Grace Nichols, program manager focusing on Specialty Crop Business Development at Ravalli County Economic Development Authority, the Mouws recently held a meetand-greet at the farm with presentations by representatives from the Ofce of Public Instruction, Montana Team Nutrition and the National Center for Appropriate Technology, attended by 16 representatives of families and schools throughout the state in an efort to boost their farm-to school sales.
They currently sell apples to a long list of stores including eight in the Bitterroot Valley, six in Missoula and other stores in Butte, Bozeman, Polson, Ronan, St. Ignatius, Deer Lodge, Kalispell, Billings, Lewiston, Belgrade, Dillon, Whitefsh and Columbia Falls. They make farm-to-school deliveries to schools in Hamilton, Whitefsh, Kalispell, Ronan, St. Ignatius, Missoula, Billings, Hardin and Livingston. As a result of their recent meet-and-greet, they have new accounts in Helena, Evergreen Kids Corner in Hamilton and the University of Montana.
Habitat for Humanity breaks ground on Hamilton home
Habitat for Humanity is at it again. On Saturday, November 16, a groundbreaking was held for a new partner family. The location of the new house is on the corner of Adirondac and 3rd streets in Hamilton. There was a good crowd including the partner family and fun was had by all with doughnuts, cookies and drinks. This new home will have four bedrooms as the family has fve children. Located in the City of Hamilton has its pluses because the house will be hooked up to the city water and sewer. Digging for the foundation will begin within the next two weeks and it will take many man hours of volunteer time to build the house alongside Habitat’s construction superintendent and the foreman. If you are interested in help in any capacity of building, contact Habitat for Humanity at 406-375-1926.
The Olson Family. Photo courtesy Habitat for Humanity.
Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard is a family operation including Ryan and Kendall Mouw and their kids Grant, Warren, and Claire. “I always wanted to raise my kids on a farm,” said Kendall. Photo by Michael Howell.
The latest addition to Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard launched in the stores in October, a threepound apple bag, has been a big hit. In just three weeks they sold 619 bags of Spartan apples, 628 bags of Empire apples and 1,063 bags of McIntosh apples. Photo by Michael Howell.
