state-of-the-art new home. The project has been in the works for months, and the organization responsible says they take the sacrifces frst responders make every day very seriously.
The Tunnel to Towers Foundation was created in the wake of 9/11, by the siblings of a frefghter who died during the attack. Stephen Siller had just fnished his shift with the Brooklyn Fire Department. He was on his way home to play golf with his siblings, when he overheard the scanner report that a plane had just struck the North Tower of the World Trade Center. He returned to the station to retrieve his gear and then headed out to join his squad who were already on their way to the tower. When he came to the tunnel to cross over to the island, security had blocked it of. He donned his over 60 pounds of gear and ran several miles across the tunnel and caught up with his squad to join them. The entire team perished when the building fell.
According to Trevor Tamsen, associate director of media relations for Tunnel to Towers, Siller’s siblings thought it was “better to cast a light than to curse the darkness,” so they started the nonproft to help frst responders across the country.
Among the many things they do, the charity builds homes all over the country for veterans and frst responders who have been catastrophically injured. They have been operating for 23 years and do
over 200 homes per year, between three diferent programs. These include paying of mortgages and building new “smart” homes, like the one in Stevensville.
Tamsen said they are often called about, or fnd, frst responders who have been injured, or who have seen hardship, through their various connections across the U.S. Once they learn of someone, they will reach out to them, or the family, and say something like, “I know you’re grieving, but you’ll never have to pay another mortgage payment.” As Tamsen explained, “We want to take care of their loved ones like they took care of us.”
Tunnel to Towers is also committed to veterans, and as Tamsen described, “not letting them fall through the cracks.” He spoke on their new vet program, where they are buying up hotels around the country and turning them into “veteran villages,” comprised of apartment spaces. In these buildings, veterans will live alongside other veterans in similar life circumstances, and will be able to receive help.
To do all this, the organization fundraises and asks donors for $11 per month. The money they receive comes from all over the country, and from several generous corporate donors. This allows the organization to construct very expensive “smart homes,” like the one built for Wade and his family.
These buildings are built where the family lives and are designed with the responder’s specifc needs in mind. In Wade’s case, there are no obstacles, no front door threshold and rooms are built to be open spaces to allow him easier mobility. The house also includes motorized doors, keyless coded entry, and a remotely controlled security, sound and temperature system which is accessible anywhere in the home. The kitchen has an oven that raises and lowers, a waist high microwave and everything is designed with easy access in mind. According to Tamsen, the bathroom is especially important. “The place you need the most independence is in the bathroom, and this bathroom is state of the art,” added Tamsen.
The ceremony to give the home to the Palmer family drew nearly 100 people, from all over the community and the state. Many of these individu-
als were frst responders themselves. According to Anthony Trombetta, the senior director of events with Tunnel to Towers, “The biggest thing we feel about these events is introducing the family to the community.” His team’s job is to reach out to the community and make connections with the area to help organize these events. They try to get everyone involved, from area and state politicians to the local American Legion groups and other frst responders. It takes them about a month to plan one of these events, and they are often doing several at a time. “It’s always great to see one of these come together,” said Trombetta.
The master of ceremonies for the house unveil was John Carroll, retired Battalion Chief for the New York Fire Department. Carroll spoke of the organization, saying, “The Siller family, out of such a tragic event, wanted to make something good out of it.” He also explained how the money people donate is used, pointing at the house they were about to unveil to Wade’s family. Carroll stated that 97 cents of every dollar raised goes into the people the organization helps.
Carroll then spoke about the hero of the day. According to Carroll, Wade served eight years and earned the Medal of Honor twice. The frst time he earned it was when he saved a woman from an oncoming vehicle that lost control. The second time he earned it was when he was fred upon, which resulted in his injuries.
Along with Carroll, others spoke, including former Montana Attorney General Tim Fox, who talked about the Palmer family and the challenges they have faced since the shooting in the line of duty. Fox said, “This is not a reward, but a partial fulfllment.” He was speaking about the debt Montanans, and Americans, owe to Wade and others responding frst.
Another to speak was Wade’s former commanding ofcer, Chief Colonel Tom Butler, who said, “Good is shining brightly, today,” after speaking of the evil that struck Wade and the Montana Highway Patrol that day.
Near the end of the ceremony, after the famous Miss Montana plane few over several times, Carroll introduced Lindsey Palmer, who spoke on Wade and his family’s behalf. She thanked everyone and said, “This house means everything to our future.”
After the ceremony, the fag was raised in front of the home, and fnally, Wade and his family walked through their new home.
During the walk-through, Charlie Percia, the senior director of construction, gave the family the tour. At the end of the walk-through, during an interview with Wade and Lindsey, Lindsey said, “Everything in this home is perfectly set up for Wade.” She explained that the wide doors, and open hallways, are a huge deal for him, as moving around, either in his wheelchair or by cane, in their current home is sometimes almost impossible. Now, as Lindsey stated, he can begin “to feel comfortable in his own home.”
For more information on Tunnel to Towers, interested parties can visit the website at www.t2t. org. They can fnd a bio there about Wade Palmer, as well as other recipients.
Montana Highway Patrol troopers stand at attention as the Palmer family raises the American fag for the frst time over their new home in Stevensville, along with representatives from Tunnel to Towers. Photo by John Dowd.
Wade Palmer stands, hand over heart, while the Montana Highway Patrol prepares to present the colors. To his right is Wade’s wife Lindsey Palmer, and to his left is John Carroll, retired Battalion Chief for the New York Fire Department. Photo by John Dowd.
FIREFIGHTING: 60 years of experience in Bitterroot
Continued from page 1
state, my job description only contained one sentence that read ‘fre duty as needed’,” said Lewing, “but especially in the old days it was a case of, if you worked for the Ofce of the State Forester, you fought fres.” His book gives you an overview in four parts and 65 pages of color photos of that long adventure.
The frst part of the book takes you through his early years of fghting fres for the Forest Service and the State of Montana as a ground-pounding employee with part of the job being routine frefghting that
many adventures, frustrations, and fun times as he works at a variety of jobs that range from down and dirty line digging, to higher supervisory positions, to support jobs.
He expands upon his own experiences by adding the voice of a casual acquaintance and now a good friend, David A. Shouldice, whom he met while fghting the Skalkaho Complex Fire during the fres of 2000. Shouldice, a nineteen-year veteran of the frefghting world at the time, was on assignment as a crew boss for Ontario, Canada fre crews who later shared his own written account of those times with Lewing. Lewing found the account so compelling that he decided to include it in his book.
later branched out into freelance frefghting for Incident Command Teams all over Montana and half a dozen other states. The reader gets a peek into the social world of frefghting as Lewing recounts his
In his own account of the Firestorm of 2000, Lewing describes arriving in the Bitterroot on August 2 and heading up towards the Valley Complex Fire Camp and standing slackjawed in the parking lot as he counted six major fres, all with giant convection columns. There were columns from the Blodgett Trail, Burke Gulch, Bear Gulch, Maynard, Gilbert, and Spade fres arced across the horizon. He said on August 6, which he calls “Black Sunday,” they all blew up and converged into one fre called the Bear Fire and moved east into the Big Hole. Before it was over, the fre complex had scorched over 350,000 acres.
“It was my unit that was burning up,” said Lewing. “It was a very frustrating experience. Out of 14,000 acres of state land, we managed to save 2,000.”
The book is about more than fres and frefghting, though, it is also about dealing with the aftermath, and documents the monumental salvage and rehabilitation eforts undertaken in the several years following the Firestorm of 2000 to reverse the destruction inficted on state lands, in particular the Sula Forest, the Hamilton Unit that Lewing was responsible for.
“This event was the largest confagration of Montana State Lands, the largest salvage of fre-killed timber, and the largest rehabilitation efort in state history,” said Lewing. In the epilogue to the book, titled “The Last
Word,” Lewing gets around to ofering his own personal observations and opinions of how the world of frefghting has changed and how it could possibly be improved. He uses the Lolo Peak Fire of 2017 to illustrate his points.
“The chapter is not meant as a fnger pointing diatribe,” said Lewing, “but as a means to point out the defciencies that exist today and then attempt to address some strategies that I feel should improve the overall efectiveness of the program.”
“As I see it,” said Lewing, “mankind is ever more frequently cited as the cause of global degradation from climate change to clearcutting. In reality Mother Earth is such a force that when global disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes and frestorms occur, all we can do is get out of the way and try to survive. But if mankind is also such a force of destruction, he can also be the force for reconstruction and improvement.”
The book is available at Valley Drug in Stevensville and at Chapter One Bookstore in Hamilton. It is also available at the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton and the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville. Lewing said he hopes to get it into the libraries in Darby and Missoula soon. It is also avail
Merle Unruh
Mark Lewing holds his book where he tells readers what frefghting was like through all stages in the Bitterroot Valley. Photo by Michael Howell.
Author sentenced in Montana Historical Society theft case
Former Montana resident Brian D’Ambrosio has been sentenced to six months in federal prison and ordered to pay $22,508 in restitution for stealing materials from the Montana Historical Society.
In addition, he was fined $4,000. D’Ambrosio will be allowed to self-report to a federal penitentiary in Texas within the next few weeks, according to U.S. Attorney Ryan Weldon.
Despite D’Ambrosio’s request for a sentence of five years’ probation, U.S. District Court Judge Brian Morris said jail time was warranted to reflect the seriousness of stealing irreplaceable documents from historical institutions and to provide deterrence for future artifact and document theft cases. He added that D’Ambrosio’s excuse that he stole the items during a difficult time in his life didn’t explain his actions.
“I appreciate the personal struggles in your life but in my experience trauma in a life doesn’t equate … (to doing this) over and over again at a historical society,” Morris said. “When someone does something stupid it’s usually a one-time thing. But this happened over and over again; how does tragedy in your life translate to your actions at the historical society?”
Speaking so quietly that he couldn’t be heard in the courtroom, D’Ambrosio mumbled an answer to the judge, while about 20 members of the Montana Historical Society strained to hear his response. Court documents showed that while he was conducting book
research between April 2022 and December 2022, D’Ambrosio took items including letters written by Nancy Russell, the wife of renowned Western artist Charlie Russell. The items were more than 100 years old with significant cultural heritage, and far exceeded $5,000 in value.
After stealing the items, he sold them for profit on eBay. A person familiar with the items tipped off authorities, and an FBI agent who posed as a would-be purchaser confirmed D’Ambrosio was the seller.
D’Ambrosio said during that time, his mother died, and both a daughter and his father faced medical difficulties.
Tim Fox, president of the MTHS Board of Trustees, said he was satisfied with the prison sentence.
“Every item in our archives is a treasure of immeasurable value to our great state and its people,” Fox said. “D’Ambrosio’s egregious and outrageous crimes violate all sense of decency and trust. A
tencing document, noting that a prison sentence in white collar crimes is meant to act as a deterrent. “The conduct here is especially troubling because the historical documents D’Ambrosio stole are best described as priceless. Restitution is certainly owed, but the reality is that money can never repay what has been lost.”
D’Ambrosio’s attorney, Colin Stephens, wrote in a sentencing memo that everyone involved in the case also was struggling to reconcile the actions taken by his client.
hallmark of our society is that libraries, museums, and archives are open and accessible to the public. The defendant violated that trust, committing these crimes for personal gain, profit and prestige.”
D’Ambrosio initially was indicted by a grand jury in 2023 on 10 felony charges, including theft of major artwork, interstate transportation of stolen property, and seven counts of wire fraud. Under a plea agreement, he admitted to the theft of major artwork, and the other nine counts were dropped.
“This case tears at the very foundation upon which Montana was built,” Weldon wrote in a sen -
“The circumstances of the offense are those of a man in deep personal pain, who seemingly lashed out at one of the few places that used to provide him comfort,” Stephens wrote. “Now, because in the moment he could not find a healthy way to deal with his pain, Brian has lost his reputation, and he is barred access from the tranquility of the Historical Society, and the quiet peace it gave Brian, surrounded by the sense of the permanence of history.”
Some of the items were returned to the MTHS, but Director Molly Kruckenberg said the damage from the theft will be ongoing – not just trying to recover the remaining stolen items, but also to restore staff’s trust and lessen the impact on future researchers.
“This damage goes beyond the walls of the Montana Historical Society’s Library and Archives; museums around the country are asking themselves – again – how to balance access and trust when a trusted researcher becomes a com
mon thief,” Kruckenberg said. “Rest assured; we are working diligently to restore the trust Brian D’Ambrosio selfishly took from us. But we will never forget what he did.”
Brian D’Ambrosio. Photo courtesy the Muck Rack.
Stockman Bank to open Stevensville location
plans to open a new location in Stevensville. The new bank, located at 318 Main Street, is slated to open in the next few months. This will be Stockman’s first location in the Bit terroot Valley, and its 42nd full-ser vice banking location in Montana. the Bitterroot Market President. He will oversee and supervise all phases of staffing, lending, operations, planning, and development of the Bitterroot market. McCann, who is currently an AVP, Ag/Commercial Loan Officer at the Stockman Bank in Missoula, has been with Stockman Bank since 2020, after previously lending for a small, community bank in Big Timber where he focused on all aspects of banking.
MSU-Bozeman, earning a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business–Farm/Ranch Management with a
mobiling and helping at the ranch when time allows.
“We look forward to opening a bank in Stevensville and serving more of our neighbors throughout this beautiful region of our state,” comments Bob Burns, Stockman Bank Missoula Market President.
“Simon and his team will do a great job of expanding Stockman’s unique brand of Montana community banking and a high level of customer
service to the Bitterroot Valley.” Stockman Bank is Montana’s largest, family-owned, community bank, with full-service locations across the state. Founded in 1953, Stockman is uniquely focused on Montana, with comprehensive banking products and services, along with state-of-the-art online and mobile banking, wealth management and insurance services. To learn more visit www.stockmanbank.com.
TUE., DECEMBER 24th
DECEMBER 25th
MOUNTAINSIDE: Bringing back the small-town doctor
They took the plunge, and now, Mountainside Medical is open for business. Along with providing primary care, they can also do IV infusions, tele-health and many lab services in house for patients, so their patients don’t need to travel far or deal with large companies. With all this combined, including her emergency room experience, her hope is to be able to keep people out of the ER as much as possible and to bring back the old fashioned idea of the “small-town doctor.”
Carson, certifed Adult and Geriatric Care Nurse Practitioner, added that they bill insurance and take all major insurances, including VA. She said they will be on call and “we want to be available to our patients.”
She described their business, “like a concierge doctor without concierge prices.” As they grow, they hope to be able to do a lot more.
Her philosophy is, “You are in con-
trol of your health.” As she explained, in many large companies, doctors may need to push certain treatments, but she said Mountainside Medical will never push any treatments. Her method is to educate people on the treatments as best she can, and let the patients make the decision without any pressure. “It’s their body and their choice.” She hates the idea of pushing treatments she may not even support. “I just want patients to be more involved in their health care,” said Carson.
They want to give the community the opportunity to get to know them. Ignacio said, “Come and meet us!” Interested patients can call and set up an appointment so they can actually meet their provider. “Most places won’t give you that opportunity,” added Ignacio.
Mountainside Medical is located at the Headwaters Wellness building in Stevensville, at 212 Main Street. Interested parties can call them at (406) 303-9781 or visit their website, www. mountainsidemedicalmt.com
Saving the Mitchell by journalist Michael Howell of Stevensville, is the inside story of how a group of wealthy landowners in the Bitterroot tried to privatize Montana’s waters.
“No one else could have told this story with as much clarity, accuracy and insightful nuance as Michael Howell has done,” writes Greg Pape in the Introduction.
Saving the Mitchell is “a well-written and well-vetted true story, a book that will take its place among the signifcant books of Montana history and literature. It is also a reminder of the vigilance that is necessary to good citizenship.”
The poetry of Greg Pape, a former Poet Laureate of Montana, is sprinkled throughout the 145-page book, which also contains a number of photos, maps and other related material.
“If
The sign outside the Mountainside Medical offce. Their goal is to provide a more personal form of primary care. Photo by John Dowd.
No setbacks?
No sense
Once again, the Fish and Wildlife Committee has kowtowed to the small minority of trappers in Montana and is allowing for no setbacks of traps on closed roads in Ravalli County during furbearer season, basically all winter. They have continued to ignore public objections, comments and safety. They have also ignored respectful dialogue regarding some compromises such as signage to alert the public that trapping is occurring in a particular area. No, for some reason they keep acquiescing to the demands and threats of trappers, who consider it their right to indiscriminately cause death and immense sufering to any animal that is caught, regardless of whether it was an “intended” species or not. The Fish and Wildlife Commission has ignored pleas to require trap checks every 24 hours, so as to decrease the time an animal has to sufer. Although ID tags are “required” on traps, it is not enforced. Pet owners can still be prosecuted for tampering with traps in the horrifc case of releasing of their pet that is caught in one. Enough is enough. It is way past time for the taxpaying public to demand transparency of FWP. We want to know what the heck is going on. While you are out recreating this winter with your children and pets, be aware and on the lookout for traps. And get angry. Please send your opinions to FWComm@mt.gov now.
Peg Brownlee Florence
Trapping setbacks
Finally someone has taken a stand against the anti-trappers by issuing the correct decision to do away with setbacks on closed Forest Service roads in Ravalli County. Thank you, Jef Burrows! It always amazes me how the anti-trappers think that they own the forest. Letting their dogs run free and crap all over the forest is just fne with them. Other recreational users such as trappers and hunters, they want them shut out. The nice wildlife you see everyday would not be there if it were not for hunters and trappers who manage and pay their way. While the anti contribution is zero dollars.
Chris Servheen, a former grizzly biologist representing the Montana Wildlife Federation who was responsible for initiating a lawsuit with the liberal courts to delay wolf trapping season: “Servheen also said over a fve-year period FWP has records of 306 nontarget captures of animals in foothold traps, snares and Conibear body traps for smaller animals. Adding, more than 120 of the nontarget animals were dogs.” That’s quite the statement in itself. It proves that Chris could care less about grizzly bears and has used it as an excuse to try and shut down trapping in Montana. Something that all people should know is what is really behind the agenda of the Montana Wildlife Federation.
Brad Davis Hamilton
Bedey puts women at risk
The MT House Rules Committee met on 12/3/2024 to determine if men should be allowed to use women’s bathrooms at the Montana State Capitol. At issue is a fantasy by a man
Opinion
named Zachary Raasch, who dresses in women’s clothing, claiming to be female, using the initials “ZZ“.
A fourth term Ravalli County Representative, Dave Bedey, voted to allow this male, masquerading as a female, to use women’s bathrooms at the Capitol. Instead of standing up and defending the security of real, biological women, Bedey created a dangerous environment for women by allowing this charade to be carried out. He, and two other House members claiming to be Republicans, had the opportunity to protect the true female members of the State Legislature from physical and mental abuse and anguish. Instead, they are allowing a man, pretending to be a woman, to use women’s restrooms. Horrifc is not a sufciently strong word to convey the result of Bedey’s appalling decision. When did doing the right thing require assessing whether or not a court would overturn a legislative decision?
Every voter in Ravalli County, irrespective of ideology, should contact Dave Bedey (406-381-2059) and voice your disdain for his decision to place female legislators in harm’s way. His hypocrisy has reached a level demanding citizens to hold him accountable for this travesty. The protection and security of women should never be sacrifced, especially when a simple, honest solution exists.
If he possessed sufcient scruples, Dave Bedey would be ashamed. Brad Tschida Missoula
Trapping regs: harmful shell game for wolves, grizzlies, public
Peering through Montana’s wildlife management smoke and mirrors.
A bear shadow was cast as Governor Gianforte’s priority to delist grizzlies was the marker for wolf trapping proposals. At the November 12th Fish & Wildlife Commission public meeting, FWP’s trapping proposals for wolves were approved. FWP’s stated design successfully maintained trapper opportunity, but failed considerably limiting incidental trapping of grizzly bears.
Wolf trapping dates in half of Montana, i.e. Western, remains January 1-February 15, when grizzlies are generally denned, and per court order. Elsewhere, wolf trapping begins the frst Monday after Thanksgiving until March 15.
Due to documented trapping of grizzlies, FWP attempted to rein in the highly unregulated trapping of coyotes. Trapping predators and non-game now requires a free supplemental permit, but not a trapping license. Trapping of coyotes for livestock protection requires trappers carry a declaration naming the livestock producer and county. Yet, there is no mandatory reporting of trappings. 48 hours after FWP catches wind of a legally trapped grizzly, limits on trap sizes and snares goes into efect, but not for trapping for livestock protection, and only February 16-December 3. Nothing applies outside court-identifed grizzly geographic areas. The grizzlies FWP continues to publish expanding across Montana were ignored.
Unlimited, unreported trapping for predators and non-game remains legal year-round. Despite fndings that 24-hour trap checks reduce injury and increase survivability, there is no
requirement. Actually, Montana has no mandated trap check, except 48 hours for wolves and in designated lynx protection zones for bobcats. Notably, FWP historically proclaimed they have no authority over the trapping of predators, that they fall under the bailiwick of Department of Livestock.
Region 2 Commissioner Jef Burrows expressed sadness for wolf trappers with the shortened wolf season. He claimed meeting only with Foundation for Wildlife Management members, an Idaho organization that pays bounties for killing wolves. He then proposed and passed eliminating trap setbacks on all Ravalli County public roads closed year-round and seasonally to motorized vehicles other than snowmobiles, during designated wolf and furbearer trapping seasons. Thus, November 1-April 15. Like all wildlife, wolves choose the path of least resistance. Snowmobiles are used for setting traps and hauling out kills.
Commissioner Burrows did not communicate with Bitterroot Valley avid outdoor enthusiasts who covet these closed roads for cross country skiing, walking, running, snowshoeing, and commonly with their dogs and children. His voicemail was full. Emails went unanswered. Dozens of submitted public comments expressed opposition, 4:1; more than half, Ravalli county residents.
FWP forewarned, “The amendment reduces the number of routes with setbacks and has real potential to increase non-target captures of domestic dogs and reduce support for recreational trapping.” Only Region 3 Commissioner Susan Brooke voted against it. Commissioner Burrows maintained 50-foot trap setbacks and 100 feet for wolf sets on four roads out of the Bitterroot National Forests – 900 miles of closed roads. Therefore, massive, injurious leghold traps, strangling snares, and quick-kill-body-crushing conibear traps, can be baited, and secreted DIRECTLY on the closed roads that hundreds of people routinely recreate on in the winter. No warning signage required. No public notice. FWP reports at least 153 dogs have been trapped in Montana in fve years. Not all make it on the reports or home alive. Trap Free Montana pays towards medical bills. Trappers pay nothing. Commissioner Burrows, also a Ravalli County Commissioner, sold out his constituents, their safety, to a handful of trappers beaming over $1,000 per wolf bounties.
Remarkably, despite our eforts, over three weeks later, with trapping in full swing, the new wolf trapping map and trapping regulations are not on FWP’s website.
KC York, President Trap Free Montana
Apology demand is ridiculous
Perhaps the poster boy example of the restricted source information gathering practiced by so many voters nowadays could be the Nov. 20 LTE titled “Will Tester apol-
ogize.” The author categorizes the 18 years experienced Senator’s re-election ads as “audacious,” “falsehoods,” “ugly,” “lies,” “from “out-of-state,” etc. Either Mr. Kalkofen wrote his letter to perform as an infuencer, knowing full well that Tester campaign fyers were citing Sheehy faws and disqualifying, incontrovertibly documented business activities, or Mr. Kalkofen simply has not researched the accusations of either of the candidates.
Had he googled ‘fact checking websites’ he would have been enabled to discover that the Sheehy ad and rally statements that, for one example, “Tester supported a farm bill” where assistance for white farmers was excluded was totally misconstrued and really nothing but an underhanded, vicious falsehood. Kalkofen had every opportunity to compare all Sheehy ad content, his air-attack contracting company, his law enforcement issues, his embarrassing failures with the Gallatin County bond issue he sweet-talked into profting from. Sheehy repeatedly told us that Tester “ignores vets.” Fact check that BS!
I’m not going to cite any more of the unapologized-for lies of Sheehy here, though I certainly could.
I do feel obligated to point out that it is abundantly clear that far-right MAGA adherents deride fact-checking sites as wellsprings of liberal propaganda, and inherently untrustworthy. As these folks are usually owners of the very oxen often gored by these sites, such criticism is to be expected. But Snopes, PolitiFact, FactCheck.org and others list in detail numerous unimpeachable sources of proof.
18,600 plus voters in this county were duped and/or negligibly inattentive and jumped on the wrong bus. Honest Abe is turning in his grave.
Bill Jones Stevensville
Calendar
St. Augustine Church
206 E. Ravalli St. Hamilton, MT 59840 406-363-4090
Traditional Anglican Services every Sunday at 10 am.
Gamblers Anonymous
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the United Methodist American Baptist Church on N. 6th St in Hamilton. Use the south door. For more info call 406-304-9198 or 406-369-0458.
WIC clinics
Ravalli county WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum and breastfeeding women, children from birth to 5 years of ages and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents and foster families. The WIC program is ofered in Ravalli County through the Public Health Ofce located at 205 Bedford Street in Hamilton. WIC appointments are also ofered at remote locations in Darby, Victor, and Stevensville. Call Public Health for more information, 406-375-6672.
Income eligibility guidelines:
Household
1 – $27,861
2 – $37,814
3 - $47,787
4 – $57,720
5 – $67,673
6 – $77,626
Each additional family member add $9,953.
This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Family Shelter
Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.
Stevensville Al-Anon
The Stevensville Al-Anon Family Group meets weekly at 7 p.m. Monday (note the time change) at the Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College St. Enter the church through the Fellowship Hall door next to the parking lot. For more information about the meeting, call Emily at 239-4460. Visit https://al-anon.org for general information about Al-Anon.
Stevensville AA
Alcoholics Anonymous meets Tuesdays and Saturdays at 7 pm at the Stevensville Fire Station training room, 156 Kinsman Drive.
AA Promises Group
Alcoholics Anonymous is open to all who have a desire to stop drinking. Discussion group -Sunday 3 to 4 p.m. at the Neely Center, 150 South A Street, Victor. West side entrance.
Brown Baggers
Al-Anon
Brown Baggers Al-Anon meets Tuesdays from 12 to 1 p.m.at the Open-Ended Expressive Arts Studio, 201 Daly Street, Hamilton. For more information, call 406-3630060.
Three Mile Cofee Club
Three Mile Cofee Club meets
every Monday, Wednesday and Friday, from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. Everyone is welcome. Good cofee, conversation, and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For more information call Colleen at 777-3710.
BitterRodders Car Club
BitterRodders Car Club meets the frst Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st in Hamilton. Everyone is welcome. For more information call 509-2093709.
Victor Senior Center
Serving meals at the Center Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 11:30 a.m. You can still order and pick up meals to go on Monday from 11 to 11:30 a.m.
Bridge every Tuesday at 1 p.m. Bingo every Tuesday at 6 p.m.
Pokeno 2nd and 4th Friday at 1 p.m. For info or to volunteer call 642-3320.
Hamilton Senior Center Open for lunch Monday, Wednesday, Friday, serving from 11:30 a.m.12:15 p.m., $5.
Bridge, Sundays & Wednesdays, 1 p.m.
Canasta (Hand and Foot), Mondays, 12:30 p.m. Cards/shufers provided. $2. Line Dancing, Tuesdays & Fridays, 10-11:30 a.m.
Bingo, 1st and 3rd Saturdays, doors open at noon, play starts at 1 pm. $2 entry fee, games $1 each. Must be age 18+.
Ping-Pong, Mondays & Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m.
Toastmasters, Tuesdays, 6:30-8 a.m.
Pinochle, Fridays, 1 p.m. All supplies provided. $3. Flea Market, every 2nd Saturday, 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m., Sept through May. The center is located at 820 N. 4th Street; 406-363-5181.
Bimonthly Membership Meetings, March 7, May 2, July 11, September 5, November 7.
The Club is located at 727 South 5th Street, Hamilton
Stevi Senior Center
Stevensville Senior Center serves on-site meals Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 11:30 a.m.
Cofee Club - Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.
Exercise - Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m.
Pinochle - Mondays & Saturdays, 7 p.m.
Victor Masons
Victor Masonic Lodge 43 meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. on Main Street above Farmers State Bank. For any questions or membership information call 406-381-1250.
Stevensville Masons
Stevensville Masonic Lodge #28 Stated meetings are the frst Thursday of every month at 7:30 pm with dinner for members and family at 6:30 pm. A fellowship pot luck for members and family is held on the third Thursday of every month at 6:30 pm. All Freemasons and those interested in Masonry are invited and welcomed to either event. For more information email papajack222@msn.com.
Sapphire Quilt Club
2nd Tuesday of each month, Senior Citizens Center, Stevensville. Doors open 6 p.m., starts 6:30 p.m.
Parkinson Support Group
The Hamilton Parkinson Disease Group (Movers and Shakers) holds monthly meetings on the 3rd Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at Sapphire Lutheran Homes, 501 N. 10th Street, Hamilton. For information call Ginny Wigen, 406-544-9186.
St. Mary’s Parish Mass
Mass is held at St. Mary’s Church in Stevensville every Sunday at 11 a.m. Weekday Mass is celebrated on Tuesday Daily Mass at 6pm, Thursday Mass at 11:30 am, Friday Mass at 9:30am. (Mass for St. Joseph’s in Florence is still suspended).
St. Francis of Assisi Mass
St. Francis Church Saturday vigil mass at 5 p.m. Sunday mass at 9:00 a.m. and every Wednesday
at 11:30. Adoration at 10:30 a.m. Reconcil iation at 10:45 a.m.
Breaking Bread
to the Bitterroot community every Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Light of hte Valley Church. Join in for a free dinner, a brief message of hope and lots of fellowship! There is a children’s group available for your K-5th graders as well so all can enjoy!
Soul Suppers
Soul Suppers are served every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission Street. Free homecooked meals with a message. For more information contact Corey at 406-214-8708.
Bitterroot Heritage
Civic Group
The Bitterroot Heritage Civic Group, formerly called theSouth Valley Civic Group, has reorganized. New members and volunteers are welcome. Regular meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month at 6:15 p.m. at the Darby Library.
Quantum Group
The Quantum Group of the Bitterroot invites you to attend its monthly meetings. You need not have knowledge of quantum physics to enjoy learning about this exciting feld of science that afects our daily lives. Topics alternate each month between science (particles, felds, etc. and their practical applications) and the metaphysical aspects of quantum physics. Meetings feature presentations and discussion.
When: the last Wednesday of each month
Time: 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Bitterroot Public Library, downstairs meeting room, Hamilton.
Am Legion Post 94
Meeting 3rd Tuesday of month, 7 p.m., at the Legion Hall, 754 Middle Burnt Fork Road. For info call Garrick, 541-953-8827.
Am Legion Post 94
Auxiliary
Meetings 1st Tuesday of month, 6:30 p.m., at Legion Hall, 754 Middle Burnt Fork Road. For info call Cheryl, 406-531-4132 or email cherylburgmeier@yahoo.com
VFW Post 1507
VFW Post 1507 meets the second Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at 108 Main in Victor. For information contact Matt Walker, 541-852-7215.
C H R I S T M A S
E V E S E R V I C E TUE, DEC 24TH 5PM ALL ARE WELCOME!
Am Legion Post 47
American Legion Ravalli Post 47 meets the 2nd Wednesday at 7 p.m. at 322 S. 2nd (corner of Madison next to 2nd St Sushi), Hamilton. Check us out! visit https://www.legion.org/membership/whyjoin
Am Legion Post 134
American Legion Florence Post 134 meets the 1st Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at Florence Rural Fire Hall. Contact: Robert Davis, Commander, 949-285-9010.
Am Legion Unit 91
Auxiliary
Corvallis American Legion
Auxiliary Unit #91 meets the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 1:30 p.m. at Corvallis United Methodist Youth Center, 352 Corvallis Cemetery Road. The Auxiliary has programs and projects to support veterans and Americanism. For info call Andrea, 406-381-6239.
Lions Club
The Hamilton Lions Club meets the frst and third Tuesdays at noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. First Street in Hamilton. Guests and prospective members are invited to come and learn more about how Lions fulfll their motto “We Serve.” For more information contact Dan Rothlisberger at 406-363-3879 or check the website: www.hamiltonlions.org.
Blizzard Doll Club
The doll club meets the second Thursday afternoon each month at a member’s home. There is a short business meeting to discuss the club’s charities, its annual doll show, and other business. There is generally a program about dolls, bears, toys, miniatures, paper dolls, and related subjects. And, there is always show-and-tell! Contact Kay Schrader at 406-360-7214 or schrader1501@blackfoot.net
Three Mile bingo
Bingo games are held on the frst and third Tuesdays of the month. Early bird game 6:45 p.m., regular 6:45 p.m. at Three Mile Community Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. For more information call 406777-3710 or go to 3milecc.org.
Bitterroot Toastmasters
Afraid to speak up at work, your church or in the community? Bitterroot Toastmasters can help you
fnd your voice and speak with clarity and confdence. For details about our weekly meetings, call Mike at 406360-7262.
Amateur Radio Group
The Bitterroot Amateur Radio Group meets the 3rd Monday of every month starting at 7:00 PM in the back room of BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Contact n6mgml@gmail.com or visit the web page at W7FTX.org. Come early and enjoy fellowship and a meal.
Socrates Cafe
The Socrates Cafe’ Philosophical Discussion Group welcomes you for a night of inspiring talks on topics ranging from philosophy to social issues to current events. It’s a time of social interaction and enlightenment. The group meets every other Tuesday night at 6:30 p.m. at the Bitterroot Public Library downstairs meeting room. Cofee, tea and cookies are provided by the Library. People of all philosophies are encouraged to attend.
Kiwanis
Kiwanis meets every Wednesday at 12 noon at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton.
TOPS
TOPS Club (Take Of Pounds Sensibly) meets every Thursday morning at Kootenai Creek Village, 43 Club House Way, Stevensville. Guests are welcome, including men. Weigh-in is from 8:30 to 9:10 a.m.; meeting follows until 10:30. A program on sensible eating and weight loss is presented every week along with incentives for weight loss. TOPS is an afordable non proft weight loss support group. For more information call Cindy MacIsaac 406-961-0196.
Lone Rock Community Network
Times for Lone Rock Community Network meetings are changing to an “as requested, as needed” basis. The group will meet periodically for classes, having to do with sustainable and independent living, that are highly relevant to the community. Members will receive email notices of meetings, and they will be posted on Next Door and Facebook. If you’d like to be included, contact Rick Nelson at 406381-1466. Feel free to call or text to suggest topics or hands-on classes. Or, you may just want to get involved with this active, existing network of neighbors that are currently working on projects together.
Montanans for Life
Montanans for Life will hold their monthly meeting on the frst Thursday of every month at 6PM at More to Come Fellowship, 330 3rd Ave., Victor. For more information call (406) 407-1254.
Selway-Pintler Back Country Horsemen
The Selway-Pintler Wilderness Back Country Horsemen meet the 2nd Thursday of every month at 6 p.m. at the Forest Service ofce in Hamilton (enter through the rear door). Come enjoy refreshments and conversation. For additional information contact Kathy Hundley at 406-363-8230. Visit the website at bchmt.org/wp/spwbch/ or their Facebook page for more information.
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 406-530-
7175. 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
North Valley Library events
Holiday Escape Room (adults) — Thursday, Dec. 19, several timeslots available
Trouble is brewing at the North Pole and only you can prevent a holiday disaster! So, choose the friends with whom you’d like to be locked in a room for festive fun and sign-up for your holiday-themed escape room adventure. You will be challenged with solving a variety of riddles, puzzles, and brainteasers. This event is for ages 19+. Go to tinyurl.com/nvplescaperoom for more information and to sign up.
Library Holiday Closures
The Library will be closed from Tuesday, Dec. 24 through Thursday, Dec. 26. It will close at 1 p.m. on Dec. 31 for New Year’s Eve and be closed on Jan. 1.
Pachyderm Club
The Bitterroot North Valley
Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, December 20 at 12 noon at the Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. This will be the Christmas Lunch and white elephant gift exchange. Come join in the fun. The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
Baroque Concert
Bitterroot Baroque is ofering a free Christmas Concert on Sunday, December 22 at 2 p.m. at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 600 S 3rd Street, Hamilton. The program will feature instrumental music by Handel, Corrette, and Corelli followed by a Christmas carol sing-along.
Grief coping series
The death of a loved one is one of the most difcult experiences we face in life. Please come share your grief journey with others.
Tuesdays, January 7th – April 1st at 3-5pm at St Francis Pastoral Life Center, 411 S. 5th St, Hamilton
Each session includes a short video featuring interviews with grief recovery experts, real-life stories of people who have experienced the death of a loved one and the opportunity to hear from other participants regarding challenges, questions, and concerns you may encounter in your grief journey.
The series will explore dealing with change, guilt, anger, people who don’t understand your grief, tips for preparing for holidays and special occasions, caring for yourself, honoring your loved one and much more.
These faith-based Griefshare. org Sessions are free ($20 donation appreciated for workbook) Register at https://www.griefshare.org/groups/251057 . For more info, contact Nancy at stfrancishwm@ gmail.com.
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Sports Western A Tip Off Tournament
The boys and girls basketball teams from 15 Montana schools (and one Idaho school, because it’s nice to include Idaho sometimes) competed in the Western A Tip Of Tournament in Frenchtown on Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14. The boys and girls teams from Corvallis, Hamilton and Stevensville were among the teams. Each team played two games, one on Friday and one on Saturday.
Corvallis
The Corvallis girls went 2-0 at the tournament. They played Whitefsh on Friday and started slowly, trailing 13-25 at halftime. But the Blue Devils came out energized after halftime and outscored the Bulldogs 27-10 in the second half to earn the 40-35 victory. Corvallis’s Ella Varner had 20 points to lead the Blue Devils. Then on Saturday they defeated Libby 48-38.
The Corvallis boys went 0-2 at the tournament. On Friday they played Whitefsh and lost 31-71. On Saturday they played Libby. The Blue Devils fell behind 16-32 at halftime and weren’t able to make up the diference and were defeated 31-64.
The Hamilton boys went 2-0 at the tournament, winning close games against Ronan and Browning.
On Friday they played Ronan and won 57-55. The Broncs trailed 11-22 early in the 2nd quarter, then went on a run, outscoring the Chiefs 38-11 over the next two quarters. The Chiefs fought back to make it close in the end, but the Broncs held on for the twopoint victory.
For Hamilton, Canaan Magness had a big game with 27 points, 9 rebounds and 4 assists, Tyler Jette had 10 points, 14 rebounds and 2 assists, and Landen Wetzel and Jake McCarthy each added 9 points.
On Friday, the Hamilton boys played Browning and won 54-51. The Broncs jumped out early and led 27-20 at halftime. The Indians made a second half comeback to
make it close, but Hamilton was clutch in the 4th quarter and got the victory.
For Hamilton, the one-two punch of Canaan Magness and Tyler Jette led the way. Magness had 22 points while Jette had 20. Also for Hamilton, Landon Wetzel had 6 and Asher Grifn added 5.
The Hamilton girls went 0-2 at the tournament. On Friday they played Ronan and lost 26-44. Then on Saturday the girls played Browning and lost 34-44. The Broncs trailed 19-31 going into the 4th quarter and outscored Browning 15-13 in the fnal frame, but couldn’t make it all the way back and took the loss.
Stevensville
The Stevensville boys went 0-2 at the tournament. On Friday they played Polson and lost 31-59. Then on Saturday, they played Whitefsh and lost 35-73. For Stevensville in the Whitefsh game, Angus Trangmoe led with 11 points, David Beames had 8 and Kaden Wyant added 3.
The Stevensville girls went 0-2 at the tournament. On Friday they played Polson and lost 16-56. On Saturday they played Whitefsh and lost 11-65.
Bitterroot basketball roundup
Hamilton falls to Loyola
On Tuesday, December 12, the Hamilton boys and girls basketball teams hosted Class B power Missoula Loyola. The Loyola boys have won the last two Class B state titles and are one of the best basketball teams in Montana. And for their part, the Loyola girls look to be one of Class B’s top teams this year as well.
The Hamilton boys stuck with the Rams for the frst half, trailing 26-30 at halftime. But Loyola had too much frepower in the second half and outscored Hamilton 32-19 in that period and the Broncs fell 43-62.
For Hamilton, Canaan Magness led Hamilton with 24 points, Tyler Jette
added 12, Landon Wetzel had 6, and Liam Grifn added 1.
In the girls game, Loyola controlled the game throughout, holding Hamilton in check and winning 68-32.
For Hamilton, Ashlynn McKern led the way with 11 points, Mariah Domingo added 9, Ella Grifn had 5, Tricia Wilson had 4, and Annalise Lewis added 3.
Darby takes on Valley
Christian
Darby hosted Valley Christian on Friday, December 13. The girls won 55-32, while the boys lost 50-54.
For Darby in the girls game, Had-
ley Heiland continued to impress, as she led the scoring with 24 points.
Natalie Anderson had a solid night with 17, Georgia Fisher had 7, Austin Hackel had 5, and Elliot Irish added 2. Florence at the Coyote Classic
The Florence girls and boys basketball teams traveled to Shelby, the birthplace of scientist Jack Horner, for the annual Coyote Classic basketball tournament on Friday, December 13 and Saturday, December 14.
On Friday, the Florence girls lost to Malta 63-46. For Florence, Kendyl Meinhold and Kenzy Pickering led the scoring with 11 points each, Ali
Meinhold had 7, Maggie Schneiter had 5, Madigan Hurlbert had 4, Emory Ralston and Jaden Fisher each had 3, and Shelby Crocker added 2.
On Friday, the Florence boys played Malta and lost 47-79. For Florence, Brody Duchien led the scoring with 15 points, Jake Schneiter and Mose Smith each had 9, Bridger Alexander had 6, and Mason Arlington and Kade Anderson each had 4.
On Saturday, the Florence boys lost to Fairfeld 42-61. For Florence, Jake Schneiter led with 12 points, Bridger Alexander and Wes Potter each had 7, Brody Duchien had 6, and Mose Smith and Mason Arlington each had 5.
Wrestling roundup
Bob Kinney Classic
The boys wrestling teams from Darby, Corvallis, Florence and Stevensville were among 14 area high schools that competed in the annual Bob Kinney Classic in Superior on Saturday, December 14.
In the team standings, Corvallis took 3rd place, Florence took 4th, Stevensville took 9th and Darby took 14th.
Individually for Darby, Eli Spross took 3rd at 215, and Shannon Stuart took 4th at Heavyweight.
Individually for Corvallis, Chase Davis took 1st at 103, Kahle Hill took 1st at 118, Colton Snyder took 1st at 175, Axton Houser took 3rd at 103, Kade Bowles took 3rd at 165, and Cayde Olsen took 4th at 190.
Individually for Florence, Rowan Miller took 1st at 132, Sam Geiser took 2nd at 126, Isaac Nicoson took 2nd at 144, Jett Murray took 2nd at 175, Brett Riley took 3rd at 157, and Max Rosenthal took 4th at 138.
Individually for Stevensville, Todd
Whitescarver took 1st at 144, and Benjamin White placed 2nd at 138. Flathead Girls Invitational
The girls wrestling teams from Darby and Corvallis competed at the Flathead Girls Invitational Tournament on December 13 & 14 at Flathead High School in Kalispell alongside over 30 other schools. With so many schools participating, a top-six fnish is an outstanding accomplishment.
For Corvallis, Jocelyn Covington took 2nd at 140, Kaelynn Vanderpool took 3rd at 110, and Deedra Wohlgemuth took 6th at 100. For Darby, Tayler Rust took 6th at 120.
Hamilton
Corvallis sharp shooter Ava Loran (#0) defends in Corvallis’s 48-38 victory against Libby on Saturday, December 14 at the Western A Tip Off Tournament in Frenchtown. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Hamilton’s Tyler Jette (#23) makes a move in Hamilton’s 54-51 victory over Browning on Saturday, December 14 at the Western A Tip Off Tournament in Frenchtown. Jette had 20 points in the game. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Stevensville’s Amy Donaldson (#10) shoots a free throw in Stevensville’s game against Whitefsh on Saturday, December 14 at the Western A Tip Off Tournament in Frenchtown. Stevensville lost the game 11-65. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Colton Snyder of Corvallis took 1st place and Jett Murray of Florence took 2nd place in the 175 lbs division in the Bob Kinney Classic in Superior on Saturday, December 14. Photo courtesy of Corvallis High School Wrestling.
Legion places wreaths on veteran’ graves in Hamilton
On December 5th, Ravalli Post 47 (Hamilton) placed wreaths to honor our Veterans at three cemeteries in Darby, Grantsdale, and Hamilton as well as at the Post 47’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Never Forget Garden Memorial at the Veteran’s Memorial in Hamilton.
Participants included Larry Keogh, Paul Rosenberg, Greg Marose, Alan Marose, Mike Batnik, David “Ozzie” Osborn and Nancy Dezell.
Above,
Submitted
SEPTAGE: new funding for report could show options
Continued from page 1
cept level plans for alternatives, rank alternatives and develop a preferred alternative with necessary capital, operation and maintenance funds, review environmental impacts and develop an implementation strategy.
Ravalli County received a 2025 Biennium Planning Grant for $40,000 from the Montana Department of Commerce Montana Coal Endowment Program (MCEP), a 2025 Biennium Planning Grant for $40,000 from Montana Department of Natural Resources – Renewable Resources Grants and Loans, and is providing up to $20,000 in local matching funds. The following components are anticipated to be reviewed: ▪ Permitted land application sites, current loading rates as compared to permitted capacity • Proximity to surface water and groundwater resources ▪ City of Missoula capacity to accept out of county septage, porta potty waste and FOGs. • Emerging and future restrictions on accepting out of county wastes. ▪ Landfll requirements and capacities for accepting septage and biosolids. ▪ Ravalli County municipal sewer treatment facilities’ capacity • Review of treatment capacity • Review of biosolids capacity • Review of permits and future discharge permit limitations. ▪ Financial states and costs of service will be reviewed for each current method of treatment and disposal. • Financial capacity of municipalities and county districts is not anticipated to be reviewed in this section of the report. It is understood that none of the Ravalli County public sewer currently accept or charge for receiving septage.
Once the existing facilities have been evaluated, the planning parameters defned and the need for the project established, alternatives will be developed to address the needs for septage treatment and biosolids disposal.
Each viable alternative will be evaluated with respect to technical feasibility, applicability, operation-
al ease, capital cost, operation and maintenance requirements, environmental impacts, permit feasibility in respect to US EPA, Montana DEQ, Ravalli County Environmental Health, public acceptance, and other factors that the County may choose to include. A scoring matrix with weighted criteria will be prepared to facilitate ranking of the alternatives and presented.
Potential funding opportunities for implementation of the identifed solutions include MCEP Project Grants, and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation Renewable Resource Grant and Loan (RRGL) program, US EPA Pollution Prevention (P2) Grant Program, US EPA Water infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) Program, Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Block Grant Program (CDBG), Montana Clean Water State Revolving Fund, or US Dept of Commerce EDA.
County Commissioner Jef Burrows said that building a facility or partnering with a municipal facility only addresses part of the problem. Then there is the cost of continued operation and maintenance.
“Not only do we want the engineers to show options and viability and technical design, we also want to see the real service costs going into it,” said Burrows. “We could build a treatment plant and charge $4 a gallon for pumpers to dump in but they could drive it all the way to St. Regis and land apply it for $2.80 a gallon. So then they wouldn’t be using the plant.
“Land application is what we are trying to avoid here in Ravalli County. It’s not popular and at some point, they may become more strictly regulated and maybe even prohibited. I think the most reasonable option at this point is to partner with some existing facility and pay for increased capacity and the headworks needed to treat the septage. That’s probably the best solution.”
Make an appointment today at one of your local clinics.
5549 Old Highway 93 • 406-970-2213 Providence.org/MTFlorence
715 S Main St, Suite A • 406-702-8078 Providence.org/MTStevensville
Ravalli Post 47 placed a wreath at Lone Pine cemetery on December 5th. Pictured left to right are: Nancy Dezell, Greg Marose, Alan Marose, Mike Batnik, Larry Keogh, Paul Rosenberg. Photo taken by David “Ozzie” Osborn from Seward, Alaska Post 5. Below, Ravalli Post 47 placed a wreath at Post 47’s Tomb of the Unkown Soldier Never Forget Garden Memorial. Pictured left to right are: Alan Marose, Mike Batnik, Larry Keogh, Nancy Dezell, Greg Marose, Paul Rosenberg, David “Ozzie” Osborn.
by Nancy Dezell, Chaplain, 2nd Vice Commander, Ravalli Post 47
Obituaries
Gary Edward Thomas
Gary Edward Thomas passed away peacefully at home on Friday, December 13, 2024. He was born in Missoula, MT on November 29, 1941 at St. Patrick’s Hospital to Edward and Lena Thomas.
Gary was a Montanan through and through. He attended the University of Montana, receiving his BS in Music Education + MEd in Guidance & Counseling. He worked throughout the state, later moving to Washington State where he finished his career as a High School Counselor and then retiring in 2001 to be near family in Stevensville, MT.
His heart was in the mountains and in the rivers. Gary loved being outdoors in his time as a Wilderness Ranger and as an educator. Many young people benefitted from time spent with Gary pursuing outdoor activities, building skills, and just having fun. To fulfill his childhood dreams, Gary became an accomplished sailor,
Death Notices
Mary Thompson
Hamilton - Mary Thompson, 72, passed away peacefully at home Sunday morning, December 15, 2024, with her family by her side. Memories and condolences may be shared at www. brothersmortuary.com
Sharon Eddy
Corvallis - Sharon Eddy, 76, passed away peacefully at home the evening of Saturday, December 14, 2024 with her husband and daughter by her side. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brothersmortuary.com
sailing to Alaska, Canada, Mexico, and Hawaii. He was also a crewmember on the tall ship Lady Washington.
He loved his quiet times fly-fishing on all of the rivers and lakes in Montana and spent countless hours tying his own flies. Gary was proud of his children and grandchildren, and is survived by his first wife Patti Jo, Annette, his wife of 38 years; children Benjamin (Lynette), Becky (Larry),
Tanya, Joshua (Tina), Jacob; grandchildren Luke (Cary), Sky (Kim), Jordan (Angel), Hailey, Drew, and sisters Patty (Ed), and Shirley. His parents and his young son Aaron preceded Gary in death.
Gary, we thank you for all you gave us. Be at peace. We will return you to your rivers, lakes, mountains, and seas. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.
Karen Arlene Salmonson
Clancy - Karen Arlene Salmonson, 69, passed away peacefully in the early morning of Tuesday, December 10, 2024 at the Elkhorn Nursing and Rehab Center in Clancy, MT. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary. com.
Hilda Zouhar
Missoula - Hilda Zouhar, 91, passed away peacefully at Riverside in Missoula this morning, Monday, December 16, 2024. Memories and condolences may be shared at www. brothersmortuary.com
Glenn Singleton
Hamilton - Glenn Singleton, 73, passed away on Saturday, December 14, 2024 at home. Memories and condolences may be shared at www. brothersmortuary.com
Victor
the
James Gettings
Darby - James Gettings, 82, passed away peacefully on Friday night, December 13, 2024 surrounded by his family. Memories and condolences may be shared at www.brothersmortuary.com
Celebrating the Season with Gratitude and Warm Wishes
As we celebrate this holiday season, let us refect on the joy of good health and the blessings that surround us. At Sapphire Community Health, we are honored to care for our community and look forward to continuing to support your health and wellness in the coming year.
We wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas flled with peace, joy, and love, and a Happy New Year!
Sapphire Community Health will close at 12:00 PM on Christmas Eve and will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. We look forward to serving you when we reopen.
316 North 3rd Street
MT 59840 (406) 541-0032
Jill C. Smart
- Jill C. Smart, 77, of Victor, passed away November 29, 2024 at her home in Victor. Arrangements are under
care of the Daly-Leach Chapel & Crematory in Hamilton.
Gifts that last a lifetime
As a boy growing up on the edge of a southwestern desert I took an early –and seemingly out-of-place – interest in hunting and fshing.
A friend who was similarly aficted and I would take our Red Ryder BB guns out into a weedy feld and shoot grasshoppers.
When the hoppers wouldn’t hold still, we took up wing shooting. Ever tried to shoot a grasshopper on the wing with a BB gun? We’d waste an afternoon and a dime’s worth of BB’s for two or three grasshoppers apiece.
parts of me better than I thought she did.
Every month, when my new issue of Field and Stream arrived, I’d get lost in it for days. I’d read of Ted Trueblood’s fshing and camping adventures.
by Chuck Stranahan
That frst BB gun was waiting under the tree, unwrapped, on my eighth Christmas.
My dad told me the BB gun was, in fact, a real gun and that there would be no transgressing the safety rules that came with its ownership. I was proud that my dad thought I could be trusted with a real gun, and didn’t want to let him down.
That Christmas gift consisted of more than a BB gun. It was a hallmark, in a way, by which my dad acknowledged that his son was growing up. And the boy grew because of it – he grew in his sense of responsibility; he valued the trust extended to him by his father.
That was the frst of several gifts that have lasted for a lifetime.
When I was about twelve and an avid reader, I spent my weed-pulling money on outdoor magazines: Field and Stream, Outdoor Life, and Sports Afeld. I idolized some of the outdoor writers: A. J. McClaine, Ray Bergman, and my special hero, Ted Trueblood.
That Christmas my mom started her tradition of a gift subscription to Field and Stream. Considering how my life has turned out, that gift was life-changing. Like my heroes in the magazines, I wanted to become a
Robert Ruark’s monthly stories printed in aw series called The Old Man and the Boy gave me a grandfather I wouldn’t know in real life as Ruark recalled life-lessons he learned hunting and fshing with his grandfather.
The boy in Ruark’s stories, as they progressed over several years, was about my age. I didn’t have a grandfather of my own, but was eager for the grandfather’s wisdom – and as a grown man with grandchildren of my own, I revisit Ruark’s grandfather often.
For most of my adulthood my mom put a giftwrapped box of shotgun shells under the tree every Christmas. I put them to efective use.
There were pheasants taken from the fencelines, and ducks called in over decoys that fell to those shells, calling on skills I developed as a boy wingshooting grasshoppers with a BB gun.
to trout waters during my late teens, fy fshing became my passion. My dad gave me a Shakespeare Wonderrod fy rod, a 7’ lightweight fberglass beauty with a sweet action. That rod is still a favorite companion on my visits to small streams.
As my own sons grew up, I tried to equip them with things at Christmastime that went beyond toys and playthings.
All of these gifts were delivered with the understanding on my part that the gift came with further obligation from me – there would be instructional sessions, and fulflled promises of trips to come. That led to the bonding that would become a greater gift for both of us.
If there is a young person in your life, try giving the gift of the outdoors.
It can take the form of piece of camping gear, a box of fies, a gift certifcate for a day of fshing with you, (and make sure you deliver!) or anything else that holds the promise of time outdoors – where a youngster’s sense of awe, excitement, and wonder can combine to spark valuable inner growth that will show later, in other ways and other places.
Outdoor gifts that are given with that lifetime perspective can be the most meaningful that a young person might receive. I know: I grew – and my life changed with those gifts. I hunt, fsh, and write. I remember that Christmas years ago whenever I fsh my 7’ Shakespeare fy rod, I still read and re-read Robert Ruark, and still have my Red Ryder BB gun.
This Christmas, give the gift of the outdoors. Photo by Chuck Stranahan.
Season’s Greetings!
“What the Chicken Knows: A New Appreciation of the World’s Most Familiar Bird” by Sy Montgomery c.2024, Atria Books
$22.99 71 pages
Every day, you and your closest lady-friends have a good old-fashioned hen party.
It’s never too formal. You’re happy just winging it as you gather and gossip, squawking about this subject and pecking at that one. Life rufes your feathers a whole lot less after you’ve cackled at each other’s jokes and crowed at your triumphs. As in “What the Chicken Knows” by Sy Montgomery, time with your ladies is pretty clucking great.
It’s not often that it happens, but when Sy Montgomery needed a rooster expert, she was happy to fnd one almost right next door.
The problem was that Montgomery’s pet rooster had gotten aggressive. Ashley, the expert, advised Montgomery to do the unthinkable: pick up the creature with scimitar-like claws and cuddle him.
Montgomery, an animal lover from way back, had wanted chickens before the pandemic, but she wasn’t sure how to go about it until she met a woman who promised that the birds would be a “most incredible gift...”.
Chicken Universe.”
At least once a day, Montgomery spent time playing with her “Ladies,” bringing them treats, teaching them to tricks, and kissing their little red combs. Her husband caught her cooing loving sentiments to them; she knew their individual personalities,
to me…”
No doubt, you know somebody who has chickens in their back yard, or is seriously thinking about where a coop will ft. Maybe that “somebody” is you, which is why “What the Chicken Knows” is such a delight.
Author Sy Montgomery titled her book aptly: what the chicken knows is more than most humans give them credit for, and she weaves necessary and relevant education in with stories that’ll speak to chicken-hearted
And so Montgomery spent a dreamy few days with a chick catalog, fnally ordering fufings through the mail, then she waited until a peeping box came to her local post ofce. She kept the fufy babies in her ofce until it was time to transfer them to a coop; she didn’t name them, but she let the neighbor’s daughters do it.
She became immersed in “the
their voices, and their pecking order.
But alas, as the human population in their area changed the landscape, a surge or predators decimated Montgomery’s fock, until there was just one animal left. Montgomery found the hen a home and closed her coop for good. She still has access to chickens and “… when I am just visiting,” she says, “they feel like family
and a surprisingly Zen-like forgiveness for predators. That leaves readers feeling as though they’ve stepped into Montgomery’s “Chicken Universe,” too.
The only complaint you may have about this book is that, at less than 100 pages and light as a feather, it’s too slim and needs more stories!
If you’re a chicken lover, especially, “What the Chicken Knows” is egg-zactly the book you need.
readers everywhere. There’s also a sensibility to this book: Montgomery is a vegetarian but she doesn’t preach; furthermore, she’s calmly honest with the less desirable aspects of chicken-keeping, the facts of chicken-eating,
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Legal Notices
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.
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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
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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.
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Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Melissa Ann Dye, Melissa Ann Dye, Petitioner.
Cause No.: DV-41-20240000413-NC
Dept. 1
Howard F. Recht
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Melissa Ann Dye to Melissa Ann Wilde.
The hearing will be on January 8, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.
Bill Fulbright, County Attorney Ravalli County Courthouse 205 Bedford Street, Suite C Hamilton, MT 59840
E-mail: countyattorney@ rc.mt.gov
Phone: (406) 375-6750
Fax: (406) 375-6731
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF:
A.H., A YOUTH IN NEED OF CARE.
Cause No. DN 23-06
Dept. 2
SUMMONS / CITATION FOR PUBLICATION TO: “VERN” YOU ARE HEREBY
NOTIFIED that a Petition for Termination of Parental Rights and Permanent Legal Custody (“the Petition”) regarding, A.H., the child who is the subject of the above-captioned proceedings brought pursuant to Title 41, Chapter 3 of the Montana Code Annotated, has been fled in Cause No. DN 23-06 in Montana Twenty-First Judicial District Court, in Ravalli County by the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, Child and Family Services Division (CFS), located at 108 Pinkney St, Hamilton, MT 59840. The Petition requests that CFS be granted the following: Terminating the parental rights of the above-named youth’s biological parents and granting CFS permanent legal custody of the youth with the right to consent to the youth’s adoption, guardianship, or other permanent placement. A copy of the Petition is fled with the Clerk of District Court for Ravalli County, (406) 375-6710 and is hereby served upon you at this time. The child who is the subject of the proceedings, A.H., was born on November 26, 2010. The child’s mother is Callie Howard. The child’s putative father is Unknown.
NOW, THEREFORE, YOU ARE HEREBY DIRECTED to appear at the Status Hearing regarding the Petition that is set on the 19th day of December, 2024 at 2:30 p.m., at the Ravalli County Courthouse located at 205 Bedford St., Hamilton, Montana YOU ARE FURTHER ORDERED to appear for a hearing on CFS’ petition that is set on the 9th day of January, 2025 at 2:30 p.m. at the Ravalli county Courthouse located at 205 Bedford St., Hamilton, Montana, then and there to show, if any you may have, why CFS should not be granted the requested in the Petition.
NOTICE: Your failure to appear at the hearing will constitute a denial of interest in the child, which denial may result, without further
notice of this proceeding or any subsequent proceeding, in judgment by default being entered for the relief requested in the Petition.
You have the right to be represented by an attorney in these proceedings. If you are unable to aford an attorney, the Court will have an attorney appointed to represent you.
WITNESS my hand and the Seal of this Court this 26th day of November, 2024.
(SEAL) Paige Trautwein
Clerk of District Court
By: Catherine di Gleria
Deputy Clerk
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Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County
In the Matter of the Name Change of Tarcila Rangel Galindo, Tarcila Gloria Galindo, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-24-426 Dept. 2
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Tarcila Rangel Galindo to Tarcila Gloria Galindo Cisneros.
The hearing will be on January 2, 2024 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County. DATED this 25th day of November, 2024.
/s/ Paige Trautwein
Clerk of District Court
By: Catherine di Gleria
Deputy Clerk of Court
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LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC OPPORTUNITY TO PROTEST TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF Montana All-Alcoholic Beverages with Catering Endorsement License
TIN DUCKIE LLC (Alan Zeni and Chris Lynn, Owner(s)) has applied to transfer Montana All-Alcoholic Beverages with Catering Endorsement License No. 13870-6513-002 to be operated at TIN CAN, 207 Main St, Stevensville, Ravalli County.
The public may protest this license transfer in accordance with the law.
Who can protest this transfer? Protests will be accepted from residents of the county of the proposed location Ravalli County, residents of adjoining Montana counties, and residents of adjoining counties in another state if the criteria in 16-4207(4)(d), Montana Code Annotated (MCA), are met. What information must be included? Protest letters must be legible and contain (1) the protestor’s full name, mailing address, and street address; (2) the license number 13-870-6513-002 and the applicant’s name TIN DUCKIE LLC; (3) an indication that the letter is intended as a protest; (4) a description of the grounds for protesting; and (5) the protestor’s signature. A letter with multiple signatures will be considered one protest letter. What are valid protest
grounds? The protest may be based on the applicant’s qualifcations listed in 16-4401, MCA, or the grounds for denial of an application in 16-4-405, MCA. Examples of valid protest grounds include: (1) the applicant is unlikely to operate the establishment in compliance with the law; (2) the proposed location cannot be properly policed by local authorities; and (3) the welfare of the people in the vicinity of the proposed location will be adversely and seriously afected. How are protests submitted? Protests must be postmarked to the Department of Revenue, Ofce of Dispute Resolution, P.O. Box 5805, Helena, Montana 59604-5805 on or before January 4, 2025. What happens if the transfer is protested? Depending on the number of protests and the protest grounds, a public hearing will be held in Helena or Stevensville. All valid protestors will be notifed of the hearing’s time, date and location. Hearings typically are scheduled within 90 days. A protester’s hearing testimony is limited to the grounds in the protester’s letter. Following the hearing, the Department of Revenue will notify the public whether the license transfer is approved or denied.
How can additional information be obtained? The cited MCA statutes are online at leg.mt.gov/bills/mca_toc/. Questions may be directed to Breanna Gill, Compliance Specialist for the Department of Revenue’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Division, at 444-0710 or Breanna.Gill@ mt.gov
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BUDGET AMENDMENTS FY 2024
RAVALLI COUNTY
The BOARD OF RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONERS will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at 9:00 AM in the Commissioners Conference Room at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana (3rd foor Administrative Center). The purpose of this public hearing is to take public comment, review and approve Budget Amendments for Fiscal Year 2024 by Resolutions.
If you would like further information on these amendments, please contact the Commissioner’s Ofce at the above address, by phone 406-375-6500 or by email: commissioners@rc.mt.gov
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NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is Hereby Given that the Town Council of the Town of Stevensville will hold a Public Hearing for Ordinance No. 172 amending chapter 24 and establishing a no parking zone at and around 515 Main Street, Stevensville, MT and Ordinance No. 173 repealing town code sections 10-117 through 10-125 and adopting new
through 10-131 regarding land use variances.
1st reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 will take place at the 01-09-25 Town Council Meeting and the 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 will take place at the 01-23-25 Town Council Meeting.
Comments may be given on the 1st reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 orally at the Public Hearing Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6:30 pm and at the 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 at the Public Hearing on January 23, 2025, at 6:30 pm. Comments can also be given to the Town Clerk at PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, email townclerk@townofstevensville.gov or before 5:00 pm in person on the scheduled Town Council meeting day. Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271.
Attest: Jenelle S. Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 12-18-24, 01-15-25. MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BEFORE THE HAMILTON PLANNING BOARD & ZONING COMMISSION, AND HAMILTON CITY COUNCIL
Subdivision Proposal 2024-01, Zone Map Amendment Request 2024-01 & Annexation Petition 2024-01 – A proposal by Bitterroot Stock Farm Holdings, LLC represented by Joe Dehnert of IMEG corporation, to annex tract of land, subdivide into 115 lots, and establish a zoning designation of Residential High-Density District / Planned Unit Development (RH/PUD).
The property is approximately 26.32 acres currently outside the incorporated limits of the City of Hamilton, located northwest of the intersection of Fairgrounds Road and Eastside Highway (State Route 269). The property is identifed by Ravalli County Tax ID #610284 and Geocode 13-1468-19-101-27-0000, and is legally described as: Parcel 4A of CS –789939-R, a portion of Parcel 4 of Certifcate of Survey No. 743476, records of Ravalli County, located in the southeast one-quarter (SE ¼) of Section 19, Township 6 North, Range 20 West, Principal Meridian Montana, Ravalli County, Montana.
The purpose of these public hearings is to consider the proposed subdivision, zone map amendment request, and annexation petition.
The Hamilton Planning Board and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing during a joint meeting on the proposed subdivision and zone map amendment request on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM on the 2nd Floor of Hamilton City Hall - 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT.
Hamilton City Council will hold public hearings on the proposed subdivision, zone
annexation petition on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 7:00 PM, and Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 7:00 PM, during its regular meetings on the 2nd Floor of Hamilton City Hall - 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT.
The public may attend and make comment in person, or on the Internet / by phone through Zoom. Instructions are available on the City of Hamilton website at www.cityofhamilton.net, or by contacting the City Planner at mrohrbach@cityofhamilton. net or City Clerk at cityclerk@ cityofhamilton.net, both of whom may be reached by phone at (406) 363-2101. Comments prior to the Planning Board and Zoning Commission joint meeting may be submitted to the Planning Department at mrohrbach@cityofhamilton. net. Comments after the Planning Board and Zoning Commission joint meeting may be submitted to the City Clerk at cityclerk@cityofhamilton.net. Written comments for the Planning Department or City Clerk may also be mailed or delivered in person to 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. Full application and related materials are available on the City of Hamilton website at www.cityofhamilton.net, or by contacting the Planning Department.
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LEGAL NOTICE: We, at Rainbow to Rest, are committed to providing compassionate and respectful end-of-life services for pets in the comfort of their own home. In an efort to further enhance our oferings, we would like to inform the community of the installation of a pet incinerator at our facility.
Key Details: • Purpose: The new incinerator will be used exclusively for the respectful cremation of pets that have been euthanized, ofering pet owners a dignifed option for their pet’s fnal arrangements.
• Location: 3701 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 • Installation Date: Spring 2025 We assure the public that all equipment will meet state and local environmental regulations. Proper safety measures and best practices will be followed to ensure that the process is conducted with the utmost respect and care. Should you have any questions or concerns regarding the installation or operation of the incinerator, please contact us at (406) 589-2199 or rainbowtorest@ gmail.com. We appreciate your understanding and support as we continue to serve our community in providing a gentle and loving service for your cherished pets.
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Sapphire Community Health shares holiday wellness tips
As Christmas approaches, Sapphire Community Health (SCH) extends heartfelt wishes for a joyous and healthy holiday season. While the holidays often bring moments of celebration, they can also introduce stress and challenges to our physical and emotional well-being. SCH encourages the Bitterroot Valley community to embrace this season as an opportunity to focus on self-care, mental health, and building a foundation for wellness.
“Amid the busyness of the holidays, it’s essential to pause and care for yourself,” said Melanie Goodnight, APRN, Family Practice Nurse Practitioner at Sapphire Community Health.
“This time of year can be full of joy, but it also brings unique pressures. Making space for your own well-being allows you to fully embrace the season and strengthens your ability to care for those around you.”
“One of the most efective ways to prioritize self-care during the holidays is to carve out moments of quiet refection or relaxation,” Goodnight noted. “Whether it’s reading a favorite book, journaling your thoughts, or simply sitting quietly with a cup of tea, small acts of mindfulness can signifcantly reduce stress. Physical health plays a key role in mental well-being, and gentle activities such as walking or stretching can provide a boost to
your energy and mood.”
Nourishing your body with balanced meals is another way to support your health during the holidays. While seasonal treats are a delightful part of celebrations, pairing indulgent dishes with nutrient-rich fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins helps maintain energy and balance. Being mindful of hydration and choosing water or herbal teas over sugary drinks can also make a big diference.
“Self-care extends beyond the physical to the emotional and mental aspects of well-being. For many, the holidays bring heightened emotions or memories that can feel overwhelming,” said Goodnight. “It’s important to acknowledge these feelings and seek connection, whether through talking with loved ones, engaging in community activities, or reaching out to a counselor or mental health professional.”
“Our mental health is just as important as our physical health, especially during the holidays,” added
Goodnight. “If you’re feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it’s okay to take a step back. At Sapphire Community Health, we’re here to help you navigate these challenges and prioritize your overall well-being.”
As the new year approaches, Goodnight encourages everyone to consider simple steps to maintain wellness into 2025. Scheduling an annual check-up, exploring mental health resources, or setting small, achievable goals can set the tone for a healthy and fulflling year ahead.
Sapphire Community Health provides comprehensive services, including primary care, women’s health, pediatrics, mental health counseling, and substance abuse support. With options available for all income levels and a sliding fee scale for those who qualify, SCH ensures that everyone has access to quality care.
To learn more about Sapphire Community Health or to schedule an appointment, call 406-541-0032 or visit www.sapphirechc.org.
Serving the Bitterroot Valley in the areas of tax law, business and estate planning, and real estate property law.
115 W 3rd St., Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com
115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com
In this course, you will learn the alphabet in Sign Language, hand shapes for making signs and communicaton in ASL. You will learn through natural communicaton: who, what, where, when, sentences and questons/fngerspelling/nouns/pronouns, etc. Join us for an evening of meetng new people and having a lot of fun!
This is a beginning course exploring the diferent techniques and methods of producing art with colored pencils. Professional quality -colored pencils were frst manufactured as early as 1908 with the German company Faber-Castell. Colored pencils give the artst the ability to draw but at the same tme the pleasure of paintng. Artsts like to use colored pencils because of the control they ofer in their art pieces. This course will give you the necessary skills to use colored pencils in your art creatons. We will explore diferent types of colored pencils from wax based, oil based and watercolor based pencils.
Supplies:
1. Set 24 student-grade colored pencils
2. Vinyl or kneaded eraser
3. Drawing pad size 11 x 14 of good quality drawing paper with good tooth 80 # or greater
4. Coton-tpped swabs
◆ BEGINNING SKETCHBOOK
Instructor: Diana Haker
Class Fee: $25.00
12 Hours/8 Classes
Tuesdays, 5 - 6:30 p.m.
Feb. 11, 18, 25 • Mar. 4, 11, 18, 25 • Apr. 1
This is a course for anyone who wants to draw in a sketchbook. This is for anyone who wants to relax and have fun sketching, doodling or making visual ideas. You will discover how fun, imaginatve, illustratve and inspiratonal working in a sketchbook can be. You do not need fancy, expensive supplies. A simple sketchbook with a pencil will work. You will learn many principles that can be applied to your own sketchbook. Remember, you don’t need special skills. This is a course for anyone who wants to draw in a sketchbook or start journaling with sketches. Learn how to relax and have fun sketching, doodling or making visual ideas. You will discover how fun it is to make sketchbooks, journaling and making visual ideas come alive. We will cover other mediums used in sketchbooks such as watercolor, colored pencils, ink, etc. Join us for some creatve fun!
Supplies:
1. Set of diferent pencil sofness HB to 6B
2. Sketchbook bounded 6” x 9” of good quality paper or other size that you would like to try
3. Vinyl or kneaded eraser
4. Black ball point pen
◆ ENERGY MEDICINE - A NEW PARADIGM IN NATURAL HEALING
Instructor: Dr. Bruce J. Grandstaf
Class Fee: $25.00
Instructor Fee: $5.00 (Paid directly to the instructor)
Robert Kennedy stated, “The United States has the highest rate of chronic disease in the world. ” This is an introducton to approaching health restoraton with
Ready to help. Member JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682
LONE ROCK ADULT EDUCATION - WINTER/SPRING 2025
Ready to help.
energy matching for identfying the cause and correcton of health challenges. How to detect and heal emotonal causes, electro-magnetc causes, structural issues, nutritonal defciencies, food and environmental intolerances, and immune challenges. If these things are of interest to you, this class would be very informatve. Join us for a beter understanding of the health issues that surround our country. Two (2) make -up days for March 5th and 12th will be determined by the partcipants.
◆ SURVIVING THE OUTDOORS - SESSION 1
Instructor: Lee Scharf
Class Fee: $25.00
6 Hours/4 Classes Mon. & Wed., 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Jan. 27, 29 • Feb. 3, 5
This course will explore how to survive in the outdoors, with the moto being, Survival favors those most prepared.” We will cover frst -aid, food, water safety, proper clothing, tent, sleeping gear, maps, compass, cell phone, body conditon – mental/physical, medicatons weather reports, and much more! Join us for informatonal sessions on how to prepare for the outdoors!
◆ SURVIVING THE OUTDOORS - SESSION 2
Instructor: Lee Scharf
Class Fee: $25.00
6 Hours/4 Classes
Mon. & Wed., 6:30 - 8 p.m.
Feb. 10, 12, 19, 24
This course will explore how to survive in the outdoors, with the moto being, “Survival favors those most prepared.” We will cover frst -aid, food, water safety, proper clothing, tent, sleeping gear, maps, compass, cell phone, body conditon – mental/physical, medicatons weather reports, and much more! Join us for informatonal sessions on how to prepare for the outdoors!
.
● EMAIL your registraton with your name, address, phone number, & email address, & the name of the adult educaton class with start date & tme to: adulteducaton@lonerockschool.org Business • Estate Planning Probate • Trust Administration
● PHONE in your registraton by calling Julie Bachman at (406) 210.5129 afer 4 p.m.
Please REGISTER EARLY so that your class will get the number of partcipants needed to ensure that it will not be cancelled.
ALL payments will be collected the FIRST NIGHT of class.
This Christmas tree made of fruit is a great way to offer something healthful at holiday gatherings. Created by Aubrey Howell. Photo by Victoria Howell.
