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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B ‘The
Find the latest updates and information on the COVID-19 pandemic at www.bitterrootstar.com Volume XXXVI, Number 20
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
www.bitterrootstar.com
Bitterroot Star purchased by Deer Lodge publisher
Jesse and Sasha Mullen are the new owners of the Bitterroot Star. Pictured here with their children at their home in Deer Lodge, the couple also owns the Philipsburg Mail and the Silver State Post and the Browsing Bison Bookstore located in Deer Lodge.
Bitterroot Star publishers Michael and Victoria Howell have announced the sale of the Bitterroot Star newspaper to Jesse and Sasha Mullen of Deer Lodge. The Howells have owned and operated the newspaper since they started it in 1985. The Mullens currently own and operate two Montana newspapers, the Philipsburg Mail and the Silver State Post in Deer Lodge. They also own the Browsing Bison Bookstore in Deer Lodge where they live with their children. Jesse has been involved with newspapers since he got his start as a newspaper delivery boy at the Sioux City Journal. He has been an editor and publisher at community newspapers in Montana, Wyoming, Washington State, and Oregon. Prior to returning to Montana two years ago, he was an executive with Civitas Media based in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he worked closely with journalists across the United
States at Civitas’ more than 100 newspapers. He serves on the Montana Newspaper Association Advertising Services board and is a member of the Deer Lodge Rotary Club. Sasha is a veterinary assistant with Clark Fork Veterinary Clinic and a board member of the Powell County Literacy Program. The couple have a number of horses, dogs and a geriatric mule. In their spare time, Sasha shows horses competitively, and the entire family enjoys camping, cooking, cross-country skiing, reading and volunteer work. The Mullen family are members of the Backcountry Horsemen of Montana and Big Sky Horse Park. They enjoy spending their winter weekends at Discovery Ski Area near Philipsburg. Jesse and Sasha both look forward to becoming a part of the Bitterroot Valley community. Michael Howell said that selling the paper is bittersweet because he and Victoria have spent more than half their lives in devel-
oping and running the paper. “The fact is that Victoria and I are both leaving the newspaper with mixed emotions,” said Michael Howell. “How could we not? It has been an adventure that we could not have dreamed up. Running a local newspaper involves an incredible degree of responsibility towards the whole community and through that we have developed many deep and lasting relationships with many of the people and the businesses that comprise it. We won’t be leaving all that behind.” “I don’t think running a small local newspaper ever made anybody all that wealthy,” said Howell. “It’s too much of a public service. But that service brings in a lot of other rewards that you can’t put a dollar sign on. All the sincere thanks that we have received over the years do count for something after all. They say when you approach those Pearly Gates you have to leave all that See STAR, page 2
Health officials urge people Ellington appointed interim to consider flu vaccination Police Chief for Stevensville By Michael Howell
While COVID-19 statistics dominate the headlines, public health officials are urging people not to ignore the coming flu season and to consider getting a seasonal flu vaccination shot. Although the COVID-19 virus is considered by many to be about like getting a bad cold or the flu, in fact they are very different viruses. One serious difference being the high rate of transmissibility of the COVID-19 virus for various reasons, including the presymptomatic period of contagion and the completely asymptomatic spread of the disease. The flu is a complicated disease caused by a family of influenza viruses. Each year, different variations of influenza circulate and become widespread globally. Flu experts at more than 100 influenza centers around the world
keep track of these different variations, or strains, and go through an intensive research process to identify which strains may be the most common in a given season. This research process leads to the creation of the season’s vaccine, which is intended to protect against common flu strains that winter. But the seasonality of the flu leads to variation in both flu severity and vaccine effectiveness from year to year. According to statistics from the CDC Pneumonia and Influenza Mortality Surveillance, 20132021 [as reported in an article in Healthline by author Betsy Ladyzhets], the flu has caused between 140,000 and 810,000 estimated hospitalizations and between 12,000 and 61,000 estimated deaths each year since 2010. In 2020, experts are particularly concerned that the seasonal flu may become a burden for hospi-
tals, which are already caring for an influx of COVID-19 patients. The flu and COVID-19 also have similar symptoms and can require similar equipment from hospitals and health labs, which makes a double epidemic even more concerning. According to the CDC report, the total flu and pneumonia deaths in Montana, 2013-2020, was 4,170 (400 per 100,000 population). The breakdown is 296 (28 per 100K) deaths due to Flu; and 3,874 (372 per 100K) of Pneumonia caused deaths. During 2013-2020 flu seasons, flu and pneumonia combined caused 6% of all deaths The worst flu season, 20142015, resulted in 657 deaths (63 per 100K) or 6.6% of all deaths in the season. So far this year in Montana,
Stevensville Mayor Brandon Dewey on Monday announced that he has appointed Corporal John Ellington to serve as the interim Chief of Police for the Stevensville Police Department. Ellington will fill the position while the Town searches for a permanent police chief, a position that former Chief James Marble resigned when he took a job with the State of Montana. The Mayor says that he hopes to have a permanent chief appointed by March. Ellington joined SPD in December of 2019, bringing five years of law enforcement experience from the Lakeland, Florida area. Ellington is also a veteran, having served in the U.S. Marine Corps infantry, serving in combat in Afghanistan. In July, Ellington was promoted to Corporal and given supervisory and field train-
See FLU, page 4
See CHIEF, page 3
Ages. It covers the period of Glacial Lake Missoula, which filled the Bitterroot valley up to 6,000 feet deep repeatedly as the ice dam which created it broke repeatedly. It is estimated that the lake filled and then drained catastrophically over 40 times. The lake drained in about three days, creating the largest series of flash floods in the history of the earth and leaving a trail from here down through Idaho, Washington and Oregon to the coast. The trail following this ancient floodway has been monumentalized as a National Historic Trail. Stanley said that the Bitterroot Valley is the hub of three different National Historic Trails, it is on the Ice Age Floods National Historic Trial, the Nez Perce (Nimiipuu) National Historic Trail and the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail. She said the museum had already done exhibits
on the Nez Perce Trail and the Lewis and Clark Trail. “This is the prequel to those two,” said Stanley. She said the exhibit tells the whole story of the formation of the glaciers during Pre-Cambrian times. There were no humans occupying the area at the time but the exhibit includes displays about the animals that roamed the area at the time including Saber Tooth Tigers and Wooly Mammoths and even the predecessor of the modern horse. All of which went extinct. Stanley said that while the filling and draining of Glacial Lake Missoula left dramatic marks across the landscape in the Scablands of Washington, signs of it are also visible here in the Bitterroot if you look closely enough. “The evidence is there,” said Stanley. “You just have to look for
John Ellington has been appointed interim Stevensville Police Chief by Mayor Brandon Dewey.
Glaciers in the Bitterroot at Ravalli County Museum By Michael Howell
A new exhibit, “Ice Ace Floods - Glacial Lake Missoula,” will be opening soon at the Ravalli County Museum, focused on the impacts of glaciers and of Glacial Lake Missoula on the Bitterroot valley. Museum Director Tamar Stanley said that glaciers and the flooding events centered around Glacial Lake Missoula have made the area an international travel destination. “People come from all over the world to see glaciers now,” said Stanley, “and this exhibit is telling the backstory of one of the largest glaciers ever, certainly on the North American continent.” The exhibit is chockful of information about glaciers, how they formed and how far the glacier fields extended in North America in the Pre-Cambrian Ice
Bakery Hours Tue - Sat 6:30a - 3:30p
See MUSEUM, page 14
NOW OPEN!!! 529-3157 . 101 Church . Stevensville
Director of the Ravalli County Museum Tamar Stanley (right) and Assistant Director Nancy Ann Bevins (left) are pictured here with the large “erratic” that is on display in the front yard of the Museum. It is an outdoor installation related to the coming Glacier Exhibit. Stanley says she tells the kids when they are at the rock to look up at the very top of the cupola at the top of the museum building. When the lake was full, she tells them, you could stack seven of these buildings on top of each other before you reached the surface of the lake. Michael Howell photo.
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Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Star
From the Coldwell Banker Team…
continued
Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. Thank you to our past, present and future clients for a busy 2020. We look forward to working with you during the New Year 2021! Coldwell Banker Western States Associates, is sponsoring a food drive for:
The Stevensville Pantry Partners The Hamilton Haven House Darby Bread Box If you would like to donate, we will be accepting non-perishable goods, Monday-Friday 8am-6pm
There will be a contactless drop box in front of our business: 115 West Main Street, Hamilton WE ARE ALSO OFFERING “CURBSIDE” PICKUP
Call our office at 363-1250 and one of our agents will come to your vehicle to pick up donations
Please have all donations to us by
5PM ON DECEMBER 21ST which will give us time to deliver
cash and other accumulated goods at the gate when you enter. But all those other rewards, those ineffable ones, you get to carry right on through. “The other fact worth noting,” said Howell, “is that we are not getting any younger. Don’t get me wrong, I do believe that my wife and I both have a few good years left in us and could carry on, but one thing we have been increasingly concerned about, due to our age, is how the newspaper would go on without us, since our children were drawn to alternative careers.” When it was started back in 1985, the paper was first named the Stevensville Star. Howell said they lived in a converted school bus (complete with wood stove and chimney) and published the paper from a small one-room office which you entered by way of Mary and Ken Vandehey’s Dutch Treat ice cream shop on Main Street, where Mission Bistro is now located. “We set up an overhead projector in the office to make half-tones and developed the film in the ice cream shop’s bathroom,” said Howell. He said the newspaper took off and quickly expanded to cover Florence and Victor and soon became the whole valley’s weekly newspaper which required a name change, first to “The Star” and later to Bitterroot Star. “It has been a long and, at times, trying enterprise,” said Howell, “coming close to failure more than once along the way. But each time we pulled through
Michael and Victoria Howell turn the page on a newspaper venture that spanned 35 years since the first edition was published on August 22, 1985. Jean Schurman photo. and plugged on, thanks to a very loyal advertising base and growing readership. Over time, we became the most read newspaper in the valley and it has done nothing but grow in advertising and in readership.” Howell said that over the years the Bitterroot Star has played a significant role in “keeping our local democracy in working order, standing up for the public’s right to know and to participate in our government’s decision-making processes and providing the community a soap box for expressing their ideas and opinions about anything and everything. We have no doubt that
the new owners of the Bitterroot Star will be standing up for the same time-honored values of a free press.” Howell said that in a nation and a state where small newspapers have been gobbled up by large corporations, he and Victoria are so pleased to be able to hand the reins over to the capable hands of Jesse Mullen. Mullen comes from a newspaper family and appears to have a real understanding of what community journalism is all about. “We are very excited that someone with roots in Montana, and in newspapering, has come along to pick up where we are leaving off,” said Howell.
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601 Main St. Stevi • Local Flavor 7 Days a Week! • 7AM - 10PM • 777-4663 • Locally Owned
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 3
Stevensville Country Christmas starts Friday
This Friday there will be a Parade of Lights, only it will be a car parade instead of the usual walking parade. The parade will kick off a fun time in Stevensville, with sales, open houses and contests. First, rather than the traditional Parade of Lights and Living Nativity, which required folks to walk closely together and to gather in one group on Main Street, there will be a Vehicle Parade of Lights that will kick off some fun decorating contests of windows, yards, and trees and will culminate with an online benefit auction. Santa will lead a parade of
A2Z Personnel is sponsoring contests that will encourage residents to stay in Stevensville and to interact with businesses in a safe way. Participating businesses will be decorating Christmas trees and/ or their windows. These will be voted on by the public. Prizes will be awarded, with prizes sponsored by the Bitterroot Star. A list and maps of contest entries, as well as the contest ballot can be found on page 17. Completed ballots can be dropped off at the ballot boxes positioned near each tree. Eighteen trees have been entered in the contest, along with 11 storefronts and seven yards. The trees will be auctioned off in an online auction which runs from December 4 through 13. The auction website is http:// charityauction.bid/ParadeofTrees. For more information contact Liz
decorated fire trucks and other vehicles through the downtown on Friday, December 4, the traditional First Friday holiday event in Stevensville. There is no charge to enter the parade. Lineup is at 6 p.m. in the alley behind the Driver Services building. For parade information, contact Joan Prather, Civic Club President, 531-8401. Although there will be no personal visits with Santa this year, there will be extended hours with open houses and sales at local businesses. Decorated trees, storefronts, and some residential yards will be on display for ‘people’s choice’ voting.
Harsell named Radio Salesperson of Year Rod Harsell has won the Radio Salesperson of the Year award given annually by the Montana Broadcasters Association. Last year Harsell came in second place in the competition. Harsell is an Advertising Sales and Marketing Consultant with Mountain Broadcasting and Digital in Hamilton and Missoula. The award is based on retention and revenue growth. Harsell said he was surprised to win the award because so many of the radio reps in the state are from larger markets. The majority of Harsell’s clients are based in the Bitterroot Valley. Harsell represents the Drive 107.9 103.7 - The DriveMT.com based in Hamilton.
at 880-2007. Be sure to visit all the trees, cast your ballots, then start your online bidding on December 4th. All proceeds will benefit the Stevensville Civic Club.
Chief
continued ing duties. Interim Chief Ellington is looking forward to filling the role during the Town’s temporary need. Ellington says he is quickly learning the ropes of his new position and is excited to work with Mayor Dewey and his administration in the coming months. “As an officer and as corporal, Mr. Ellington has represented SPD and the community well,” said Mayor Dewey. “John is a
No Lockdowns! No Mask Mandates! No More!
Hunting fatality
Ravalli County Sheriff / Coroner Steve Holton confirmed a death due to a hunting accident Saturday morning, 11-28-20. The accident occurred in an area near Hamilton Heights Road east of
quick learner who is always eager to serve our community. His willingness to take on the additional responsibilities has been great and I look forward to his leadership in SPD going forward.” The Mayor will ask the Town Council to consent to the interim appointment at the December 10th town council meeting. The Town is currently advertising the Police Chief position on its website. You can find more information about the job here: https://www.townofstevensville. com/police/page/police-chief
Happy 70th Anniversary!
Winter Wonderland Sale Continues!
Does your life matter? Your freedom? Your family? Your business?
Ted & Joyce Plummer
~Tired of someone telling you to cover your inface? ld ire
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Hamilton. Sheriff Holton said 51-yearold Joseph Burgess of Corvallis died due to an accidental gunshot injury sustained when a rifle was discharged inside a vehicle. A hunting companion called 911 and the party drove to meet the responding Sheriff’s Deputies and Marcus Daly EMS. Burgess was pronounced deceased at the scene. Sheriff’s investigators and Deputy Coroner’s determined the manner of death was accidental. The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office offers condolences to the families affected by this tragic accident and ask the community to come together to offer support. The RCSO would also stress that firearms safety rules can never be relaxed. Always unload firearms before transporting them and control the muzzle at all times.
W o e Go ph t ~Tired of someone telling you to stay home? p r t te hi Sa ngs n ri E keep go distance? K Woyour ~Tired of someone telling you to ar 14 w Y d E tu your help. 6t ISwant DO something about it! I’m pushing back2and .
Look for special discounts on selected items!
Numbers count. Get involved. Together we can roll this back.
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Rod Harsell, Radio Salesperson of the Year. Harsell is well known throughout the Bitterroot.
Roger Mitchell, Stevensville, MT E-mail: zinsser@protonmail.com
WinterWinter Wonderland Wonderland Sale Continues! Sale Continues!
E diamonnter to win d hoop 14 Kara e in ld re in ld re t White arrings i W i W G o ld Small o Go ph to Go ph Hoop E t a e e rrings w/ 0.21tw p r t p r t Ro te hi a ntegs hi Sa ngs VALUE und DiamondEsn W o SErn i W o rri r DA K g K g
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Rocking L Alpacas Christmas Open House Saturday, December 5th 10:00am till 4:00pm
Make Your Mask Merry Contest
Does your life matter? Your freedom? Your family? Your business? ~Tired of someone telling you to cover your face? ~Tired of someone telling you to stay home? ~Tired of someone telling you to keep your distance?
Bring in your decorated “Merry Mask” DO something about it! I’m pushing back and I want your help. between December 1st and 5th. 3 winners Numbers count. Getor involved. Together we can roll this back. will be chosen to receive a $100, $75 $50 gift certificate. Masks will be displayed through December 12th.Breathe Free. Join Me.
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Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star
Flu
continued there have already been 672 deaths directly related to COVID-19 and experts are all cautioning that the worst is yet to come. During the 2014–2015 flu season in Montana—the state’s deadliest season since 2013—four counties in the state reported less than five cases of influenza. The highest number reported in one county was 736 cases. So far this year, the number of cases of COVID-19 reported has topped 10,981 in Yellowstone County, 7,307 in Gallatin County, 6,746 in Flathead County, 4,954 in Cascade County, and 4,704 in Missoula County. Ravalli County has recorded 1,536 cases to date and 13 deaths. Another way of assessing the impacts is to look at the total
death rates despite the cause. According to a report in the New York Times on Monday, deaths in every state of the country are higher than they would be in a normal year, according to an analysis of estimates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The data show how the coronavirus pandemic, which is peaking in many states, is bringing with it unusual patterns of death, higher than the official totals of deaths that have been directly linked to the virus. Deaths nationwide were 18 percent higher than normal from March 15 to November 14. Altogether, the analysis shows that 339,000 more people than normal have died in the United States during that period, a number that may be an undercount since recent death statistics are still being updated. The analysis examines
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
deaths from all causes — not just confirmed cases of coronavirus — beginning when the virus took hold. That allows comparisons that do not depend on the accuracy of cause-of-death reporting, and includes deaths related to disrup-
What better way to say thank you this Holiday Season . . . Give Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce
Gift Certificates
Good at over 50 stores valley wide! Available in various increments for your convenience CALL 363-2400 Keeping your Dollars Local - Keeping Our Valley Businesses Strong
tions caused by the pandemic as well as the virus itself. Epidemiologists refer to fatalities in the gap between the observed and normal numbers of deaths as “excess deaths.
Thank you for Shopping at our Local Businesses
105 East Main - Hamilton MT - www.bitterrootvalleychamber.com
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At the light in Victor • 642-3805
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BUrnt Fork Vet Holiday Schedule CHRISTMAS HOURS
9am-12pm Thursday 12.24.2020 CLOSED Friday 12.25.2020 & Saturday 12.26.2020
NEW YEAR HOURS 9am-5pm Thursday 12.31.2020 CLOSED Friday 01.01.2021 & Saturday 01.02.2021 The Pet Emergency Center (406) 829-9300 and Sentinel Veterinary Medical Center (406) 218-2800 will be open during these times for small animal emergencies. The Large Animal Doctor will be on call for emergencies while we are closed. 406-777-3844 The BFVC Staff wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We're so grateful to be a part of this community! 3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com
228 Main Street Hamilton 363-5480
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 5
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
‘Trout in the Classroom’ at Hamilton, Corvallis schools The Bitterroot Chapter of Trout Unlimited has been working with Hamilton High School and Corvallis High School in the implementation of a program called Trout in the Classroom. Both schools are including this program in their Classrooms without Walls. Each school received a 55-gallon aquarium and all the equipment necessary to successfully hatch rainbow trout eggs. The trout then grow into a releasable size by the end of the school year. This is all being done
2021
under a permit issued by Montana Fish Wildlife and Parks. The eggs were supplied by the Jocko state hatchery at Arlee. At the end of the school year the trout will be released into the pond at Hieronymus Park, the site approved by Montana FWP. Trout in the Classroom is a program that has been implemented at schools throughout the country. Bitterroot Trout Unlimited plans to expand the program to other schools in the Bitterroot Valley in coming years. The cost of the program was
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covered by grants from the Rapp Family Foundation and Bitterroot Trout Unlimited. In addition, volunteers contributed many hours for fundraising efforts and tailoring materials specifically for these programs. Additional grants have been submitted to ensure Trout in the Classroom is available to all K-12 students in the Bitterroot Valley in the years to come.
We specialize in helping small and large businesses with all of their employment needs. • Employee Wages • Worker’s Compensation • Liability Insurance • State & Federal Unemployment Insurance • State and Federal Payroll Taxes • Criminal Background Checks • Drug Testing . . . And Much More! Newly hatched trout. David Ward photo.
Annual Election Period Ends Dec 7th
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Page 6-- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
NCAT project promotes solar power for agriculture The National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) will launch an online information clearinghouse in 2021 to promote solar-energy development on agricultural lands while protecting -- and even improving -- those lands’ agricultural capacity. NCAT was selected for a $1.6 million cooperative agreement from the U.S. Department of Energy to develop the Agri-Solar Clearinghouse (ASC), a national information hub and professional network that connects researchers, technology companies, solar developers, landowners, farmers and consumers. “Federal energy planners estimate that utility-scale solar installations could cover almost 2 million acres of land in the United States by 2030,” said Stacie Peterson, director of NCAT’s energy programs. “Under traditional solar development, these lands could be taken over for energy-only
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production and this could lead to negative impacts on food production,” Peterson said. “However, there is tremendous opportunity for low-impact solar development that is complementary with sustainable agriculture, increasing pollinator habitat, improving soil health, and promoting native species, all while diversifying revenue streams for both agricultural and solar operations.” “NCAT’s decades of experience in sustainable energy and agriculture will enable the group to work as an honest broker of co-location information,” said Peterson. “Together, with our incredible network of partners, we hope to help promote the co-location of solar and agriculture in a way that is beneficial to both throughout the United States and territories.” ASC will showcase and develop practical, affordable solarenergy solutions through research, success stories, case studies, and
National Renewable Energy Laboratory researchers Jordan Macknick and Paul Torcelini along with UMass professor Stephen Herbert survey the test plot at the UMass Crop Animal Research and Education Center in South Deerfield, MA. Photo by Dennis Schroeder, NREL 53126 multi-media outreach. The project will also connect participants through an online forum, mailing list, workshops and farm tours to facilitate peer-to-peer exchanges
and mentoring. ASC also will have databases that help locate financial and technical assistance, as well as identify best practices, explain regulatory issues and provide policy information. The Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) of the U.S. Department of Energy will provide a three-year, $1.6 million cooperative agreement to help fund the project. The total budget of the project for three years is $2,030,000. NCAT has a number of partners in the project, including Argonne National Laboratory, Bozeman Green Build, Breezy Point Energy, Center for Rural Affairs, Fresh Energy Center for Pollinators in Energy, George Washington University, Heli-
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cal Solar Solutions, Montana Renewable Energy Association, Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Renewable Northwest, Ridge to Reefs, Seeta Sistla, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Virginia Working Landscapes, and Wexus Technologies. ASC is expected go live in the summer of 2021. The SETO program provided a total of $130 million in fiscal year 2020 for projects that improve the affordability, reliability, and value of solar technologies on the U.S. power grid. NCAT’s project is one of four that focus on siting solarenergy systems in agricultural settings. The four projects were funded at a total of $7 million. Their aim is to help farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural enterprises gain value from solar technologies while keeping land available for agricultural purposes. NCAT is a national nonprofit, founded in 1976, with a mission of helping people build resilient communities through local and sustainable solutions that reduce poverty, strengthen self-reliance, and protect natural resources. It is headquartered in Butte, Mont., and has five regional offices around the country. NCAT’s team of 35 sustainable agriculture specialists and energy engineers, along with its partners, will develop the clearinghouse. NCAT will develop alternate funding streams to ensure ASC will continue after the threeyear funding period.
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Opinion
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell
Bitterroot Star -- Page 7
Star Editorial
It really was all about the journey By Michael and Victoria Howell, (former) Bitterroot Star co-publishers
We could never have imagined 35 years ago, when a nice hitchhiker we picked up showed us how to put together a newspaper with only a few commitments from advertisers, a camera, a typewriter, a homemade light table, some press on letters and border tape and a hot waxer, that we would still be doing that 35 years later. It’s true, the technology has evolved, but the concept is still the same: gather the news and write the stories, sell the ads, put the pieces together like a jigsaw puzzle and send the whole thing off to the printing press in some other town, then wait for it to come back as a newspaper. Send that out to all the readers, and begin again. Now, after 35 years, our own weekly cycle with the Bitterroot Star is about to come to an end. It’s been quite a journey. We started out living in a school bus, camped at Bell Crossing with our two young children, renting some space in downtown Stevensville to put the paper together with the help of a couple of friends. The friends moved on and from there we progressed through five different locations over the years, finally settling in our current location in the Kohl Building. Through the years we bought a small farm, had another child, raised a family, buried a son, survived the Great Recession, and made the acquaintance of dozens, probably hundreds, perhaps thousands, of exceptional people who gave us so much love and support. Some of them are local legends who worked for us in various capacities, like Harry Vanhorn (our mentor and first editor), Sandy Ingersoll, Martha Burke, Pat Rhodes, Louise Langton, Rob Breeding, Carlotta Grandstaff, Dusty Schurman, Dorinda Troutman and Chuck Stranahan. Some are professional colleagues who, from the very beginning and in their various roles, recognized the value of the Bitterroot Star in fostering community pride and economic success, like Bill Perrin, Dale Burk, Stewart Brandborg, Joan Nygaard, Joan Prather and Dan Severson. Some are dear friends who mostly just walked into the newspaper office and introduced themselves, like Ralph Wood, Ella Buckallew, Celia Grohmann, Gene Mim Mack, Bobbi McKibbin, Cathy Scholtens and Becky Howard. All so very special in their individual ways. And there are just so many, many more. Some are business owners that have shared with us a philosophy
The great reset
Klaus Schwab, founder and executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, and Thierry Malleret, founder of the Monthly Barometer, have co-authored a book titled “COVID-19: the Great Reset” where they explore what the root causes of this crisis are, and why they lead to a need for a Great Reset. They argue that pandemics are a force for radical and lasting change of a global society plagued with deficiencies. It appears they hope COVID-19 has created a great disruptive reset of our global social, economic, and political systems. If this whole thing feels orchestrated, you’re not alone. Mask or no mask, absolute safety is unobtainable, even from these ideologues. Mike Mercer Stevensville
Reply to Yaged
This is in reply to Kim Yaged’s appeal to our outstanding law enforcement officers to “do their duty” and go out and arrest those who do NOT choose to wear a mask so she feels safer from that nasty Covid-19 virus. She states, “...restrictions in Missoula will be meaningless if there is no enforcement. Please do more to enforce existing Covid-19
of mutual support that has sustained us all for these 35 years, and has contributed to the overall well being of the entire valley. We have also had so many good people on the Star staff through the years and we want all of them to feel our gratitude. Some still work for us, like Jean Schurman and Liz Cook who, with their tremendous abilities, institutional memory and amazing crossgenerational collaboration, will be soldiering on in our absence. We thank them so much. We’d like to give a shout out to all of our current staff, who show up every week and get their work done in admirable fashion: in addition to Jean and Liz, there’s Deven, JJ, Serica, Shannon, Nichole, Mark, Alan, and newcomer Vince. We mention all these people – and there are so many more – because none of what we’ve done and do at the Bitterroot Star could have happened without them. We thank them from the bottom of our hearts. We do hope we can all stay in touch. While we will miss our jobs at the Star, and we will be involved in the transition as needed, we look forward to whatever awaits us next. We both plan to stay involved with our volunteer work and the non-profit groups that are important to us, like the North Valley Public Library, Bitterroot River Protection Association, the Bitterroot Free Press Foundation, the Stevensville Civic Club and Project 59870. We also want to keep writing, cooking, farming and gardening (you can guess who does what!) and fostering a deeper connection with our children and grandchildren. We couldn’t be more encouraged that Jesse Mullen reached out to us about buying the Bitterroot Star. We think he has just the right qualities to continue our proud tradition of community journalism and civic engagement. We wish him the best of luck in his new endeavor. And we ask that all of you continue to be engaged with the paper as you always have. One of us came to Montana in 1971 and the other around 1978. We both fell in love with this place and then we fell in love with each other. Our children were born here and we put down roots that are now deep and strong. Thank you, Montana, Bitterroot Valley and Stevensville for sharing your treasures with us, for believing in us and sticking with us through it all!
Letters
orders.” Kim apparently wants the USA and its LEOs (law enforcement officers) to be a country where a dictator gives orders and the people MUST obey or the police will come after them. And then do what? Put them in jail? Lock them in their houses? Shoot them? What, Kim? Perhaps she should go to Cuba, North Korea, Iran, Turkey, and China to actually see what life is like when dictators tell people what to do and you have no choice but to obey or lose your life. She is clearly ignorant of countries that do what she wishes were being done here in the USA. But I wonder if she can answer this question: If masks really work, why are our wonderful health care workers catching the virus? They all wear masks and good ones too doing their jobs. Why are students doing online education instead of being in the classroom? They all wear masks and if they work, why is this happening? And while Kim is at home, she must check out this educational video so she doesn’t look so foolish in her lack of knowledge about covid and masks: https:// www.rcreader.com/commentary/ masks-dont-work-covid-a-reviewof-science-relevant-to-covide19-social-policy
Bitterroot Star
Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com
Citizens of the USA need to be wary of governmental orders and demands and not accept infringements on their unalienable and Constitutionally guaranteed freedoms. Do NOT be like KIM and accept the “hurt” that goes with lockdowns, or vaccination requirements. We the people must remain sovereign and prevail. The government and its LEOs must remain servants of the people, not its masters. Helen Sabin Corvallis
Fruitless discussion
Mary Fahnestock-Thomas of Hamilton, thank you for your response to my “Tit for Tat” letter two issues ago. One always wonders if anyone actually reads the letters to the editor. It seems clear that your personal hatred for President Trump clouds your ability to rationally interpret what he has accomplished. Thus, further discussion between us is fruitless since I still stand behind every single point I made in my first letter. I encourage you to seek the other side of the story. Jerry Esmay Stevensville
As I write this: The U.S. Census Bureau (https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/MT) estimates the Montana to be 1,068,778 as of July 1st. Given the amount of out of state plates we’ve seen this year, we can reasonably predict that number is higher, but that is the number being worked with here. The Montana State site for covid, as I write this, (https://montana.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html?appid=7c34f3 412536439491adcc2103421d4b) states 656,021 tests have been done. That’s 61.38047% of the Montana State population tested for covid19. Out of those 656,021 tests, the Montana site states 62198 were positive. That means 5.1890107% tested positive for this virus. Just over 5%. The Montana site states 681 deaths from covid. So, from that just over 5% testing positive, that is a 98.90511% survival rate. So... less than 6% of our state has tested positive for the covid19 virus, and of that less than 6%; that’s almost 99% survival rate. Almost a 99% survival rate!
Bransby Law Firm P.C. Estate Planning • Wills
Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta
• Transfer on Death Deeds • Medical Directives
The Bitterroot Star is published weekly at 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, The Bitterroot Star is published weekly at 115 W. 3rd Street, Suite 108, Stevensville, Montana. Subscriptions are $50 per year in Ravalli Stevensville, Montana. Subscriptions are $40 per year in Ravalli County, County, $60 per year out of county, and $70 per year out of state. $50 per year out of county, and $60 out of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.
MemberMontana MontanaNewspaper NewspaperAssociation Association Member MemberBitterroot BitterrootChamber ChamberofofCommerce Commerce Member MemberHamilton Stevensville Main Street Association Member Downtown Association MemberStevensville Hamilton Downtown Member Civic ClubAssociation
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515 Main Street, Stevensville, MT
Jean Schurman and Liz Cook, Bitterroot Star customer service representatives extraordinaire.
A new chapter begins It is bittersweet that the Bitterroot Star will be moving forward without Michael and Victoria, but Jean and I would like to assure the community and our clients we are both still here working for you. It is our commitment to continue to bring the best experience we can to our clients. We want to make it clear that the way we do business is not changing. Business will continue on as usual and we look forward to the continued support from our amazing clients! As we enter into the Christmas Season, both Jean and I would like to take the time to thank each client for the overwhelming support we have seen this year and throughout the years. Without the advertisers, the Star would not be able to deliver trusted local news, local sports and community events. We thank you all for understanding we are all in these
uncertain times together. Your support makes all the difference. So many of you are more than clients, but friends we have come to cherish. Lastly, to our amazing bosses, Michael and Victoria: we want to thank you for being great leaders to us. You have shown us by example, what it means to be a member of this community and valley, what integrity looks like, and that doing the right thing sometimes comes with a price, but in the end is always worth it. Life at the Star will not be the same without you. Jean and I want you to know we are grateful for all the years we’ve had as your employees, which we don’t think there was ever a day we felt like an employee. We are both so happy for your new chapter and wish you both the absolute best. With much appreciation, Jean Schurman & Liz Cook
It seems appropriate to share with readers the very first column that Michael Howell wrote for the Star, in the very first edition, August 22, 1985.
Star Gazing
By Michael Howell Today is a day for celebration. After all, it’s not every day that a star is born. No, I’m not talking about another Ronald Reagan, John Wayne or Michael Jackson. It was not a super-star that was born today. It was just another little star. Just another hometown newspaper. Unlike those super-stars, who seem as far and distant as those little twinkly things in the night sky, the Stevensville Star shines right in your own backyard. It can’t afford the distance that the super-stars require. But this little star offers you something that none of those distant stars can… the chance to be your own star. It offers this community the chance to develop its own voice, its own view of itself. And unlike those other stars, this one is within reach. Obviously, since you now hold the newspaper in your hands. But the Star you hold in your hands today could fall tomorrow. Or it could turn out to be your lucky one. It’s mostly up to you. It’s your paper. For, as Nietzche once said, “What is a star without those for whom it shines?” We are prepared to publish a newspaper of whatever size and quality you care to support. We need to know if there are really any Star gazers in Stevensville, or if you’re all still looking for a super-star. Out of all the Montana tests conducted, the survival rate is 99.89619% (from just being tested). The CDC lists (as I write this) 261,051 deaths from 13,295,605 cases. That’s a 97.99896 survival rate. https:// covid.cdc.gov/covid-datatracker/#cases_casesper100klast7days Now... how many tests were actually false, but not corrected? How many people actually die of something else, but covid19 was listed as the cause (https://www.newsweek.com/ florida-man-killed-crash-listedcovid-19-death-raising-doubtsover-health-data-1518994)? There are more! How many people actually had something else, such as
Letters Policy
Although it is solely at the discretion of the owners/ editors, in the interest of promoting free speech it is the policy of the Bitterroot Star to print all letters as space permits, with very few exceptions. If you don’t see yours, call Victoria at 777-3928.
the flu (very similar conditions) but that was counted as covid19. Oddly enough, flu cases are down this year according to the CDC (https://www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/ index.htm). Why is the government paying the medical people more for a covid19 diagnosis?! Talk about misplaced incentive for false diagnosis! https:// www.dispatch.com/story/news/ healthcare/2020/08/04/qa-dohospitals-get-paid-more-for-covid19-patients/112873160/ Unless your mask is capable if filtering out the .1 micron-sized covid19 virus, your mask is USELESS; it will NOT stop the virus. You may as well use a window screen to filter giardia out of your creek water before you drink it; that’s how useless almost every mask worn is. Ironically, the cases are higher where masks are worn more; look at the numbers. Wearing a mask that doesn’t stop the covid19 virus actually increases your chance of getting this 99% survivable virus, as it catches the virus laden moisture droplets from other people and harbors/stores them directly in front of your mouth and nose, then your hands See LETTERS, page 10
Calendar
Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star
Hamilton Senior Center meals
Hamilton Senior Center is preparing meals for take out on the following schedule: Monday, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. call in to order meals for the week. Thursday, pick up between 12 noon and 1 p.m. For orders and info: 3635181.
AA meetings
Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.
Al-Anon
Due to the ongoing pandemic, the Stevensville Al-Anon Family Group will only meet the first Monday of each month, rather than weekly, until further notice. The meeting is held at 7:30 p.m. at the Stevensville United Methodist Church, 206 College St. Enter the church through the red front door. Masks are required and social distancing is practiced. For more information about the meeting, call Mary at 529-3951. Visit https://al-anon.org for general information about Al-Anon.
Narcotics Anon
Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).
Gamblers Anon
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
WIC clinics
Ravalli County WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. Income eligibility guidelines: 1 $23,606; 2 - $31,894; 3 - $40,182; 4 - $48,470; 5 - $56,758. For each additional family member, add $8,288. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Face-
book; www.facebook.com/RavalliCounty-WIC. This institution is an equal opportunity provider.
Family Shelter
The 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.
Shuttle
The BitterRoot Bus runs a 6:30 a.m. Shuttle to Missoula on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Call the BitterRoot Bus at 363-7484 for more information or to schedule your ride.
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Stevensville••777-0028 360-2661 203Main MainSt.• Stevensville
Worship at 12:00 p.m. Sunday Worship 11 AM In this Church there shall be no outcasts. In this Church there shall be no outcasts. being collected to help with ongoing regular expenses. For more information, or to pay your current annual dues of $20, contact Tena Chapman, Membership Chair, at 406-381-4755. To keep abreast of activities, visit the Bitterroot Quilters Guild on Facebook.
Chocolate Tasting Wed, December 2 cancelled Victor Heritage Museum has Story Time Live cancelled its Annual Chocolate Online! Tasting Party with Silent Auction for this year, 2020. The event, usually scheduled for the first Monday in December each year, cannot be held because the Museum would be unable to meet the requirements necessary to prevent the spread of COVID-19. The Museum Volunteers will miss seeing all of you who have been so supportive of the Museum in past years. For more information contact Suzanne Tout, President of the Board of the Museum, at 363-3165.
Child care help available
Are you struggling to pay for child care right now due to the added burdens of the pandemic or a reduction of working hours? You may qualify for child care assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship! Contact Child Care Resources today to see if you qualify at 406-728-6446. Or, visit us online at childcareresources.org.
Three Mile Coffee Fiber Arts Guild meetings cancelled Model Club Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild, Railroaders Three Mile Coffee Club Inc. monthly meetings are canmeets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For information call Colleen at 777-3710.
BitterRodders Car Club
BitterRodders Car Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st in Hamilton. Everyone welcome. For more information call 961-3136.
Story Time
Are you desperately missing your Library Story Times? Fret no more- you can join Annika from North Valley Public Library for Story Time Live Online! on Wednesdays in June at 10:3010:45 a.m. for this North Valley Public Library online program. Come enjoy fun stories, a quick early literacy activity, and a creative craft idea. Visit the website to register for this event. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Quilters Guild meetings cancelled Out of an abundance of concern for both our members and our community due to the rising number of cases of Corona Virus in Ravalli County, the Bitterroot Quilters Guild has cancelled all remaining 2020 general Guild meetings. The Board will consider resuming meetings for the 2021 year at a later date. Membership in the Guild is open to quilters from beginner through advanced; dues are still
celled until further notice due to the rising number of Coronavirus cases. Members can use the Facebook page by posting a “Show ‘n Tell” to see what each other has been up to and to keep in touch with other members. The Board will reconsider in-person meetings for 2021 at a later date. Annual dues of $25 for 2021 are now due and this also includes a membership to MAWS. For further information and updates check the website at www.bigskyfiberartsguild.org.
BRHA business challenge
Calling all businesses! Whether your business is big or small, the Bitter Root Humane Association (BRHA) is challenging you to raise funds for the shelter and compete against other valley businesses to see who can raise the most money during the month of November. The winner will not only receive “bragging rights” but some awesome prizes too! What type of fundraiser businesses host is totally up to them...it can be as simple as putting out a donation jar, merchandise raffles, hosting a one-time event or a month long promotion. Basically any fun thing you can think of! BRHA will assist in encouraging shoppers to visit your business with mixed media promotion and a colorful promotional poster for you to display. Joining in the “Challenge” fun is easy...for more details and registration form go to: www.bitterroothumane.org/events/#30days All proceeds from the “Challenge” will go towards helping BRHA continue to care for all the homeless pets that come through our doors! For more information contact Mary @ 642-3785 or email to dogmommary@aol.com.
Serving the Bitterroot Valley in the areas of tax law, business and estate planning, and real estate property law.
JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682 115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com Ready to help.
Due to the prevalence of the COVID-19 in the valley and current health directives, the Bitterroot Valley Model Railroaders Club will not host open houses for the public this holiday season as in past years. This is due to the need to limit numbers of people in small indoor spaces. Also, the club will not have their Christmas display in the Starrett Photography Studio window for the same reason. The BVMRR Club is sorry for excluding itself from both events and hopefully will be able to resume entertaining the Stevensville community in 2021.
Sharing Tree collections
Tags will be ready for adoption on November 27th at Valley Drug, Victor Merc, Stevensville Super One, Three Mile Mercantile, and Burnt Fork Market as well as the drive-ups at all the Stevensville banks. Sharing Tree is in need of NEW donations of warm winter clothing and personal hygiene items. Coats, hats, gloves, pants, shirts, hoodies, sweats, pajamas, underwear and socks - all sizes (especially adult). Contact Christy Owsley at 207-7458 or Linda Page at 214-1839 for a pick up. For monetary donations, make checks payable to Stevensville Sharing Tree and mail to PO Box 747, Stevensville MT 59870. A huge increase in clientele is anticipated this year and the program relies on community support to meet those needs.
Giving Angel Tree
The Giving Angel Tree for Ravalli County foster children that has in years past been located at Kmart is now located at the Yours Mine and Ours Store at 933 N. 1st St in Hamilton. Angels are ready for pick up. Store hours are Tuesday through Saturday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. or you can call 406-3631961 to arrange to get an Angel from the tree. To drop off gifts or donations, contact 406-363-1961 to arrange a drop off time as the office is closed to the public due to COVID-19.
Elks Lodge dinners
201 State Street, Downtown Hamilton. Enjoy companionship while social distancing Bar opens at 3 pm Wednesdays and Fridays Food is served at 6 pm Curbside Pickup and Takeout orders are available Call 406 363 3031 for more information Wednesday Dinner Menu Dec. 2, All you can eat Spaghetti with Salad Dec. 9, Chicken Fried Steak Dinner with Mashed Potatoes Friday Pub Night Menu Dec. 4, Meatballs Dec 11, closed for Member Appreciation Dinner.
Tune in to North Valley Public Library’s Facebook Live on Wednesday, December 2, 9, & 16 at 10:30 a.m. for fun stories, songs, a quick early literacy activity, and a link to a creative craft! North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Corvallis tree lighting
Even this year, some traditions carry on. The annual lighting of the Marty Litvin memorial tree in front of Corvallis High School marking the beginning of the Christmas season will take place on Thursday, December 3, at 5:30 p.m. Everyone is invited to join in the celebration, which this year will take place entirely outdoors with social distancing. Please dress warmly and wear your mask. Come and enjoy the lighted tree and sing a few Christmas carols. Several community groups contribute to this annual celebration. Cookies will be provided by the Bitterroot Women’s Club. The Corvallis American Legion Auxiliary is making popcorn balls again and candy is provided by the Corvallis Civic Club for the gift bags. Special thanks go to Bitterroot Tree, Inc. for assistance with putting up and taking down the lights. For more information, contact Carol Peterson at 381-8564.
Fri, December 4 North Valley Pachyderm Club
The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, December 4 at 12 noon at The Frontier Café, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker is Jim Thayer. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
St. Mary’s Mission nativities
In keeping with the annual events of a Country Christmas in Stevensville, you are invited to view the outdoor Nativity at Historic St. Mary’s Mission during the month of December. A virtual Facebook Nativity Exhibit may be enjoyed at HistoricStMarysMission with the premier on First Friday, December 4. This holiday tradition is a gift to the community in the true spirit of Christmas from the staff and volunteers at St. Mary’s Mission and Museum.
Sat, December 5 Oral storytelling workshop
“Tell Us Something”: Oral Storytelling Workshop will be held Saturday, December 5 from 2 to 3:30 p.m. You have a wealth of incredible stories in you. Join North Valley Public Library and host Marc Moss of “Tell Us Something” as he guides you on a journey of finding your own story. The event is held in the Library’s community room or via Zoom. Marc will help you shape that story into one you can share with the class group. Learn about the sense of place in a story through observation of the natural surroundings, learn about story arc, and learn how to better speak in front of a crowd. The workshop is open to all ages and abilities. In the past, “Tell Us Something” events were standing room only at the Wilma in Missoula. Check out their website for more information at TellUsSomething.org. Register on the library’s calendar; you will receive a Zoom link in your confirmation email. You may also attend in person in the community room, with a mask and distancing in place. Marc will join via Zoom. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information
visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Mon, December 7 Stevi school menu
Monday: Breakfast - Egg Wraps, fruit & milk; Lunch Sweet & Sour Chicken with rice, steamed broccoli, Mandarin oranges, bread & butter, milk Tuesday: Breakfast - Chocolate Chip Muffins, fruit & milk; Lunch - Chef’s Salad with turkey, ham, egg & cheese, fresh apple slices, dinner rolls, milk Wednesday: Breakfast Breakfast Burrito, fruit, milk; Lunch - Taco with whole grain tortilla, beef, cheese, lettuce & salsa, sliced peaches, milk Thursday: Breakfast - Mini Maple Waffles, fruit & milk; Lunch - Pancakes, breakfast sausage, tri-taters, pear slices, milk Friday: Breakfast - Cereal, fruit & milk; Lunch - Cheeseburgers, taters, fresh orange slices, milk.
Mother Goose Sings & Swings Online
Join Annika from North Valley Public Library on Monday, December 7, 14, & 21 at 10:30 a.m. for interactive songs, rhymes, stories, flannel board animals, and maybe even some dancing! This 15-minute program will be held on the Library’s Facebook Live. Mother Goose Sings and Swings is designed for babies to 3 years of age, accompanied by an adult lap. This is a great opportunity to bond, play, learn, sing, and cuddle with your little one. The Mother Goose on the Loose program is designed to promote early literacy skills in the young child. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Author presentation
Fueled with imagination. Inspired by history. Grounded in truth. Meet Timothy Browne at the North Valley Public Library community room or via Zoom on Monday, December 7 at 6 p.m. Timothy Browne extensively draws from his life and work experience when writing. For many years, he has worked as an orthopedic surgeon and medical missionary for Operation Blessing, Mercy Ships, and Hope Force International. “It’s not often you can hear the “war” stories of a medical missionary woven into a novel,” says adult programmer, Nancy Bevins. Tim will be reading from “The Rusted Scalpel: A Medical Thriller.” A pharmaceutical company promises you hope and happiness in a pill. Would you take it if it cost your relationship with God? Attendees must register to receive the Zoom link and any updates about the program. If you come in person, you must wear a mask and social distance. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Tues, December 8 Stevi school board The Stevensville School Board of Trustees will hold a regular board meeting on Tuesday, December 8 at 7 p.m. in the Stevensville Music Center Choir Room.
Sat, December 12 Author Johnson at library
“Longmire” author, Craig Johnson, is coming to the North Valley Public Library via Zoom on Saturday, December 12 from 2 to 3 p.m. Register on the library’s calendar; you will receive a Zoom link in your confirmation email. Craig will join us via Zoom. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Sports
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 9
Professional Investment Advice By Jean Schurman Sports Editor
Jim Moerkerke, CFP®, CWS® Senior Vice President, Financial Consultant
406-363-0266 or 1-800-238-0266 1711 North First Street • Hamilton, MT 59840
Petition for high school baseball being circulated Montana is one of three states that doesn’t offer high school baseball to high school boys. Wyoming and South Dakota are the other two states. However, there is a push this year to get high school baseball sanctioned. Lucas McCormick of Stevensville is the man behind this movement. He is a coach, a baseball dad, and longtime fan of the sport. While serving on the Stevensville school board, McCormick had asked how to go about getting high school baseball as a recognized sport. After leaving the school board, he began working to make boys high school baseball a reality. One of the reasons driving this idea is the fact that across the state, as the young baseball players get older, they quit playing baseball. There are many factors that cause this. Among the reasons: it’s too costly to continue with a club team or American Legion, other high school sports want their players to go to camps and clinics, and lack of opportunity because there are fewer and fewer teams. McCormick said he is by no means unhappy with the American Legion baseball program but for many families, a season that runs from early April to late July is too long. By the time participation cost, travel costs, and meals and lodging are factored in, the cost is just too much for many families.
Currently, the only opportunity for high school aged boys to play baseball is through the American Legion baseball organizations. Lucas McCormick of Stevensville is working to get the Montana High School Association to allow boys high school baseball. File photo. According to McCormick, the cost of playing American Legion ball in the Missoula area is around $3500 for a year per player. Factor in a summer job, or doing other sports and there simply isn’t time for anything. If high school baseball were offered, the season would run from late March to the first
week of June at the latest. Then, if a player wanted to continue to play, he would move over to the American Legion program. This is the way most of the American Legion programs throughout the nation operate. According to McCormick, there are currently about 60 players on the Bitterroot Bucs and Bit-
terroot Red Sox rosters. There are probably another 25 playing club ball. He said that is 85 plus players to fill three, maybe four teams in the valley, and that would include both varsity and junior varsity. He feels that having high school baseball would compliment the American Legion program.
Other Legion coaches throughout Montana agree with McCormick. The Legion baseball organization in Sidney shut that town’s baseball down in 2018. Others such as the Butte Miners went from being AA to A and no longer have to travel as far. If high school baseball is approved, the cost would be similar to softball. There would be travel expenses and initially, equipment expenses. As for the fields, McCormick points out that when softball first became a high school sport, those early games were played on county fields until regular softball fields could be built. Because baseball requires a pitchers mound, schools would either have to have two full size fields or a portable pitcher’s mound. According to McCormick, Corvallis, Hamilton, Stevensville, Florence, and possibly Victor all have regulation size fields and are either owned by the county or the school. So what is the next step? McCormick is currently circulating a petition in favor of high school baseball. He’s been talking to a lot of Legion coaches, community college coaches, and baseball fans. “We’re trying to stir up as much awareness as possible.” In order for baseball to become a sanctioned sport through the Montana High School Associa-
tion, several steps must be done. The first has already happened. Stevensville High School athletic director Chance Edman has written a proposal and will be bringing it to the MHSA meeting in January. (A formal request must be presented by a school and not an individual.) The hope is that MHSA will form a committee to study the feasibility of the new sport. They will look at several factors over the next year including how to keep equality in the sports that are offered to high school boys and girls. There has to be at least five MHSA member schools on the committee. Right now, there is one more girls’ sport than there is a boy’s sport. This winter, girls wrestling will begin and will be on a two-year pilot plan to see how much interest there is in the sport. Initially, power lifting was to be the boys’ sport to match for equality but there was not much interest in it. Both McCormick and Edman feels that this is the perfect time for boys baseball to be implemented. “School sports exist to provide a student opportunity, not only in that sport, but in academics and life,” concluded McCormick. If you wish to sign the petition, you will find it online at www.change.org/montanahsbaseball . McCormick can be reached at lucas.r.mccormick@gmail.com .
Champion heads to National Finals Rodeo This has not been a usual year for veteran pro rodeo bareback rider Richmond Champion. He’s had more time off than usual, and ridden in some smaller rodeos than usual due to the pandemic. But one thing is the same, beginning on December 3 and running through December 12, the National Finals Rodeo will be held and Champion will be there. Of course ‘there’ isn’t the usual Thomas and Mack Arena in Las Vegas. Instead, the Wrangler NFR will be held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. This is the arena where the Texas Rangers play baseball and normally seats more than 80,000 people. However, in this age of COVID, the number attending the nightly performances will be much less and there will be social distancing throughout the stands. Champion is originally from Texas but now lives in Stevensville with his wife, Paige Lawrence. She was a pairs figure skater for Canada at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia. He said that once he arrives in Texas, he, and the rest of the contestants will be tested. Then there will be random testing throughout the event. If someone tests positive, they are finished competing.
Richmond Champion making a ride at RODEO Houston. Submitted photo.
Time to Paint
“We will all go in lockdown,” Champion said. “The risk of being sent home is too great.
There won’t be any autograph signings or promotions like there usually are.”
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Richmond Champion was at the Darby Riggin Rally and finished seventh in that event. This reporter was lucky enough to meet him. Jean Schurman photo.
The professional rodeo circuit shut down in early March when RODEO Houston was closed midway through the rodeo and livestock show. Other large rodeos were also shut down and it wasn’t until early summer that the smaller rodeos began back up. “Normally I fly (to rodeos) about 20 times,” said Champion. “This year I flew once. My traveling partner, Caleb Bennett of Corvallis, and I put 60,000 miles on our vehicles this year.” He said that they went to a lot of smaller rodeos, a large number of them in Kansas and Nebraska, with prize money between $1,000 and $5,000. At times, with all of the expenses, “it probably made more sense to get a job. But those little rodeos were so happy to have us there, I gained a real appreciation for them.” With the early spring lockdown, Champion changed up
his training. Where he normally would be maintaining his strength throughout the long season, he focused on making goals and gains for strength and stamina. He has worked with a trainer out of Canada and said the month and a half of hard core training really helped him. And spending lots of time on the Bitterroot River fishing didn’t hurt either. Champion goes into the NFR ranked No. 7 in the world. His season earnings are $64,149.08. Last year, he finished fourth in the world standings with $238.983. He was third in the Wrangler NFR average and earned $108,154. He won Round 1 and placed in three other rounds of the 10-round event. In 2018, he finished fifth in the world standings, and in $268,511. He has made the top 15 in bareback riding every year since 2016. With COVID affecting so many events this year, the rodeo world changed up some of their events as well. There were several event specific events including a Riggin’ Rally in Texas in May and then one in Darby in September. These events featured the top bareback riders in the world. Champion said these events were a lot of fun, especially the Gold Buckle Knock Out put on by Cervi Rodeo Championship Rodeo Company since he won that event. “Bareback riding has never had anything done just for them until this year. I do think there will be more. There is so much talent in the bareback riding, and the horses just seem to be getting better and better.”
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Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Page 10 -- Bitterroot Star
Fishing in early December There is still some fishing to be done. Last week a young man, a recent transplant from the Texas gulf where he had done a lot of saltwater fishing with a fly rod, showed me a phone picture of his best rainbow trout to date. The fish was impressive. Small head, big shoulders, full body. Beautifully colored. He was fishing slow and
Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan deep in marginal water at the edge of a faster run. That’s where the fish are holding as water temperatures dip well below the fifty degree mark. Their metabolism slows way down, their respiratory rate drops into the range where gill movement is slow and barely noticeable, and their tail movement rhythm slows to just enough to hold them in a current where the water running through their gills will keep them alive. In that slowed-down state they won’t move very far to take food - but they still have to eat. They won’t glut themselves the way they will during a hatch of big flies in warmer weather, so if you’re fishing for them you have to hit them in the face, so to speak, with something they’ll eat. If they see a bunch of small food forms, smaller nymphs, aquatic worms, and the like and they’ve been eating them, they might eat another that looks the same and comes roiling down the same path as the previous meal. Reflexive feeding Trout eat reflexively when
Letters continued
touch the virus that lives for up to three days. If you’re really so scared of a +/- 99% survivable virus, you’re really going to lose it over the fact that your chance of committing suicide is higher, and getting higher yet because of all this mask-mongering fear. Domestic violence is up because of this, also. Since so many of you are wrapped up over ‘needless deaths’, where’s your outcry about “More than 480,000 deaths annually (including deaths from secondhand smoke)” the CDC mentioned?! THAT’S something to be concerned about! https:// www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/health_effects/ tobacco_related_mortality/index. htm Respond with your ‘social virtue’ cries all you want. That doesn’t change the facts and links I’ve presented here. A +/-99% survival rate, people. Stop being Chicken Little. The world is NOT ending. STOP allowing yourself to be manipulated for a control agenda. Mike Miller Stevensville
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they’re semi-comatose in winter, eating what looks like the last thing they ate and ignoring everything else, or in warmer weather when they’re showing on the surface, eating tiny blue-winged olives. This phenomenon was evident one spring day when the skwala hatch was on. I was fishing on a guide’s day off with a fellow guide. He was on the oars. I had just landed a healthy 19” rainbow and we were headed for the next pool, confident that we had the right fly and were all set for the conditions. In the next run we spotted a batch of rising fish, working the middle of the run’s slower current. He started instructing me where to cast – guides are like that, even on their days off. I made one cast, and before we could complete our drift through the run I half-shouted, “Pull over!” “What for?” “Now!” I shot back. “Pull over!” He was puzzled at first, but he did. What I saw was a row of fish taking small blue-winged olive adults on the surface. There weren’t a lot of them, but the fish were taking the ones they saw. I had put my #8 skwala over the first one without so much as a look. My immediate realization was that if we stopped and re-rigged with finer and longer leaders and flies that were close to what the fish were taking, we might score. And the size s of the fish we saw rising were worth the switch. Sometimes, especially when there are multiple food-forms available to the fish, they’ll eat the biggest one they’re accustomed to seeing. But given more of something else on the menu, they’ll key on that. Best flies, and why The same mechanism works with winter trout holding underneath as it did that spring day when they were on the surface. It worked for my young friend who
showed me that hefty rainbow and big grin on his phone. Winter trout don’t tend to get stuck on one specie, as those spring fish did; they’re more likely to eat the small food-forms they see in no particular order. Dredging with a big rubberlegs nymph might get some results, but a smaller - #14 or less – fly will get more eats.
Best patterns to carry include red or natural San Juan Worms, #18 Red Copper Johns, #16 or #18 Bead-head Pheasant Tails, small and not-too-fancy midge patterns, and spot hackles. And Hare’s Ears: small Hare’s Ears. Flies like the Bird of Prey and #P’s, flies that don’t mimic anything but look buggy, are tied with fish-catching materials and generally resemble trout foods, will work well. Fish slow – comb the water out. Take the time to look around – you might see an eagle silently looking for food, or hear the wingbeats or conversation of a small flock of geese overhead. And you might have a stretch of stream that will be crowded in the warmer months ahead all to yourself. Those things, even when the fishing is slow, make it worthwhile to get out. Author and flytyer Chuck Stranahan can be reached at chuck@chuck-stranahan.com or visit his fly shop at 109 E. Main in Hamilton.
Crossword Puzzle
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FARM & GARDEN
FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured hens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, $4/doz. Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb). Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).
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COME JOIN OUR TEAM! We are seeking a temporary Physical Therapist at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital! POSITIONS HIGHLIGHTS: • Employee-centric: Familyoriented facility with small-town compassion; comparable wages and benefit package • Market Leadership: Continued growth to provide services to the Bitterroot Valley What will you do: • Providing Outpatient Physical Therapy in a hospital setting. • This position will require 2-3 days/week. This position is scheduled to begin January 18, 2021 and will provide needed coverage for approximately 10 weeks and is not eligible for the benefits package. What you will need: • Candidates will be a graduate of an accredited college or university with a degree in Physical Therapy. • Candidates must hold current MT State licensure as RPT and current BCLS (CPR) certification.
123 S. 5TH Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton To apply, go to www.mdmh. org and complete an online application, or send your resume to humanresources@mdmh.org. For more information, give us a call at 406-375-4407. Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. EXTENSION AGENT – Several Locations in Montana (Blaine, Fergus, Meagher, Gallatin, Rosebud/Treasure Counties). Full time. Will provide leadership and educational programming. For information and to apply: www. msuextension.org careers. Screening continues. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.
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NOTICES ATTENTION MATT HILL - Please call Mario Locatelli, 3631262. HELP NEEDED! I am a mother of 2 teenage children. I moved away from Missoula to Stevensville to get away from an abusive relationship. My children are 50-60 miles away and I share custody with my ex-husband. It is difficult to commute to see them with school and also to stay safe. I am looking for a vehicle someone might have that is either free or fairly cheap. I am in between jobs and was just let go from my employer 2 weeks ago because of winter cutbacks. So I also need a vehicle to gain employment. Thank you. Andrea, (406) 370-0605.
LEGAL NOTICES
RAVALLI COUNTY ATTORNEY Royce McCarty, Deputy County Attorney Clay Leland, Deputy County Attorney Ravalli County Courthouse 205 Bedford Street, Suite C Hamilton, Montana 59840-2853 Email: countyattorney@rc.mt. gov Phone: (406) 375-6750 Attorney for Special Administrator MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JOHN R. BONILLA, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-127 Department No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Ravalli County Attorney’s
Office has been appointed Special Administrator of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Special Administrator, 205 Bedford Street, Suite C, Hamilton MT 59840, return receipt requested, ℅ Royce McCarty, 205 Bedford Street, Suite C, Hamilton MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court . DATED this 9th day of October, 2020. /s/ Clay R. Leland, Deputy County Attorney BS 11-18, 11-25, 12-2-20. MNAXLP
P.C.
Dustin M. Chouinard MARKETTE & CHOUINARD,
601 South First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406)363-1110 Attorneys for Petitioner MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE MATTER OF: P.S.R., a minor child, TYM MARIE RHOADES, Petitioner, And JACKSON RHOADES & LORRIE HOCKER, Respondents. Cause No. DR-20-138/12 Dept No. 1 NOTICE FOR PUBLICATION NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN PURSUANT TO MONT. CODE ANN §72-1-301(a) that Petitioner has filed a Petition for Permanent Guardianship of the above identified minor child, P.S.R., and a Petition for Protection Order individually and on behalf of P.S.R. Hearing upon said Petitions will be held on January 6, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at the Ravalli County Courthouse, Courtroom 1, which is located at 205 Bedford Street, Suite A, Hamilton, Montana 59840, the Honorable Howard F. Recht, presiding, at which time all interested persons may appear and object. DATED THIS 17th day of November, 2020. Markette & Chouinard, P.C. By:/s/ Dustin M. Chouinard Dustin M. Chouinard BS 11-25, 12-2, 12-9-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JO ANN NOTTI, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-134 Dept. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to John Carl Notti, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 16th day of NovemADVERTISING ber, 2020 /s/ John Carl Notti John Carl Notti, Personal Representative 20958 W. Glen Street Buckeye AZ 85396
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Megan S. Winderl MARKETTE & CHOUINARD,
601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110 MeganW@mcpcattorneys.com Attorneys for Co-Personal Representatives MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of PAMELA JEAN KAYE a/k/a PAMELA J. KAYE a/k/a PAMELA PHILLIPS, Deceased. Probate No. DP-20-138 Dept No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have been appointed as Co-Personal Representatives of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Katie Williams and Randy Phillips, the Co-Personal Representatives, in care of Megan S. Winderl, Esq., MARKETTE & CHOUINIARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. We declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. DATED this 20th day of November, 2020. /s/ Katie Williams Co-Personal Representative /s/ Randy Phillips Co-Personal Representative MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C. By Megan S. Winderl Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives BS 12-2, 12-9, 12-26-20. MNAXLP NOTICE The second half of the 2020 Mobile Home Taxes are due payable before 5 pm November 30, 2020. We have a Night Drop located at North end of Administration Building in drive through. Mail payments must be postmarked by November 30, 2020 or the payment will be returned for penalty and interest. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express cards are accepted. Also accepting online payments at www.Ravalli.us/196/PropertyTax. Paying with Credit/Debit card will include a 2.15% convenience fee and $1.25 Transaction Fee. Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt 215 S 4th St Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600 BS 11-11, 11-18, 11-25, 12-2-20. MNAXLP NOTICE The first half of the 2020 Real Estate Taxes are due payable before 5 PM, December 4, 2020. We have a Night Drop located at North end of Administration Building in drive through. Mail payments must be postmarked by December 4, 2020 or the payment will be returned for penalty and interest. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Master Card, Visa, Discover and American Express cards are accepted. Also accepting online pay-
ments at www.Ravalli.us/196/PropertyTax. Paying with Credit/Debit card will include a 2.15% convenience fee and $1.25 Transaction Fee. Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt 215 S 4th St Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600 BS 11-11, 11-18, 11-25, 12-2-20. MNAXLP PUBLIC NOTICE BitterRoot Bus and MR TMA of Missoula is applying for our annual 5311 grant from the Montana Department of Transportation. Due to recently enacted federal legislation, BitterRoot Bus is required to develop a community Transportation Coordination Plan. BitterRoot Bus and MR TMA is required to hold public hearings in order to give all citizens the opportunity to review and comment on the proposed plan. Public hearings are set up December 14, 2020 at 310 Old Corvallis Rd. Conference Room from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Proposed plans are available for review at: BitterRoot Bus 310 Old Corvallis Rd. Hamilton, MT 363-7484 Ask For: Sharna MRTMA 2820 South Higgins Missoula, MT 327-8707 Ask For: Lyn Any questions call either of the above phone numbers. BS 11-25, 12-9-20. MNAXLP CALL FOR BIDS The BOARD OF RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONERS is calling for bids on the printing of legal notices for the Ravalli County Offices in a local newspaper within the County of Ravalli for the calendar year of 2021. Bids should include the following: • Per folio rate (1-100 words) for the first and each additional insertion. • Information that specifically addresses compliance with Section 18-7-411 and 18-7-201 MCA. Bids must be in a sealed envelope and clearly marked, “LEGAL NOTICE PRINTING BID”. The bid must be received by the Clerk & Recorders Office at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 ADVERTISING by Thursday, December 10, 2020 AT 9:00 AM. Bids will then be publicly opened on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at 10:30 AM in the Commissioners conference Room at 215 S. 4th Street, (3rd floor). This bid award for the 2021 Ravalli County newspaper of record for printing of legal notices shall follow the bid openings at 10:45 AM. For further information, contact the Commissioners’ Office at 406-3756500 Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant. BS 11-25, 12-2, 12-9-20. MNAXLP CALL FOR BIDS The BOARD OF RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONERS is seeking bids for Display Advertising for our Ravalli County Offices in a local newspaper within the County of Ravalli for the calendar year of 2021. Please bid the Display Advertising by the Column Inch. Bids must be in a sealed envelope and clearly marked, “DISPLAY ADVERTISING BID”. The bid must be received by the Clerk & Recorders Office at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 by Thursday, December 10, 2020 AT 9:00 AM. Bids will then be publicly opened
on Thursday, December 10, 2020 at 10:30 AM in the Commissioners conference Room at 215 S. 4th Street, (3rd floor). This bid award for the 2021 Ravalli County newspaper of record for Display Advertising shall follow the bid openings at 10:45 AM. For further information, contact the Commissioners’ Office at 406-3756500. Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 11-25, 12-2, 12-9-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a public hearing for a Ravalli County Open Lands Bond project on Monday, December 14th, 2020 at 1:30 P.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room (Third Floor) of the County Administrative Building located at 215 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The proposal is known as the Yoder Angus Ranch Application. The conservation project is comprised of four parcels with 150 acres combined and the property is located on Stevensville Airport Road and 3.5 miles northeast of the Town of Stevensville. Bitter Root Land Trust is the applicant. Information describing the proposals are available for inspection at the Planning Department, located at the County Administrative Building, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. Written comments are encouraged to be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the public hearing and will be forwarded to the BCC for consideration at the public hearing. The public may comment verbally or in writing at the hearings. Comments and information submitted at the public hearing will be considered in the decision. Submit email comments to: planning@rc.mt.gov, and questions can be asked by phone at 406-375-6530. BS 12-2, 12-9-20. MNAXLP David T. Markette MARKETTE & CHOUINARD,
P.C.
601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110 Attorney for Petitioners MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE: THE PETITION FOR INCLUSION AND EXCLUSION OF LANDS IN THE DALY DITCHES IRRIGATION DISTRICT IN RAVALLI COUNTY, MONTANA Lawrence Kevin Hill and Patricia M. Hill, and Angelia Allen and Taylor Allen, Petitioners. CAUSE No. DV-82-95/729 Dept. No. 2 Jennifer B. Lint NOTICE OF HEARING NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing has been set in the courtroom of the above-entitled Court at the Ravalli County Courthouse, Courtroom No. 2, 205 Bedford, Hamilton, Montana, Ravalli County, Montana, for the inclusion of land in the Daly Ditches Irrigation District, the 14th day of January, 2021 at 1 :30 p.m., or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard, at which time and place all persons interested in the Petition of Lawrence Kevin Hill, Patricia M. Hill, Angelia Allen, and Taylor Allen to add certain lands described in the Petition to the Daly Ditches Irrigation District in Ravalli County, Montana, may appear to be heard. Said Petition is on file the Clerk of District Court and is open to public inspection.
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Respectfully submitted this 24th day of November, 2020. Paige Trautwein Clerk of Court By: Mary Fliss Deputy Clerk BS 12-2, 12-9-20. MNAXLP
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Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Average end to big game GREAT SAVINGS season in west-central MT The 2020 general big game hunting season closed on November 29, with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks’ west-central Montana check stations reporting above average hunter success in the Bitterroot and Upper Clark Fork, and lower success in the Blackfoot. Hunter numbers at the FWP Darby, Anaconda and Bonner check stations were lower than average, partly a result of reduced staffing and hours of operation due to Covid operating procedures. Those that stopped through the stations reported above average success in some places. Hunters checked at Darby enjoyed the highest success (7.8%) since 2013 and at Anaconda (9.8%) in more than 20 years. Hunter success at Bonner climbed in the last two weeks to 8.3%, down only slightly from last year. “We didn’t know what to expect this year, with all the influences of the pandemic at play, alongside the usual curveballs that weather can throw at hunters,” said Mike Thompson, FWP Region 2 Wildlife Manager. “All
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in all, we can say that nothing unusual stood out in this harvest sample, which tends to represent hunting effort on public lands.” As far as total animals checked at the region’s three stations, harvest levels at Darby were on par with the past three years, totaling 169 elk, 29 mule deer and 72 white-tailed deer. Harvest levels at Bonner were down from recent years for all three species (35 elk, 31 mule deer and 354 white-tailed deer), though whitetail harvest increased in the past two weeks to finish at 97% of last year’s tally. At Anaconda, harvest levels for elk (35) were higher than last year’s, despite the fact that the check station was closed in the third weekend due
to illness. The mule deer (16) and white-tailed deer (26) harvests at Anaconda were lower than last year, but within the normal range. “Hunting regulations didn’t change much between the 2019 and 2020 seasons, and last year was a mild winter,” Thompson said. “Given that, we hoped to see a harvest that tracked with last season, and we did with a few localized exceptions that we’ll follow up on with other survey work.” The general season closed on Nov. 29 but extended hunting opportunities continue for some hunters in west-central Montana that already hold some special licenses. Find out more atfwp. mt.gov.
Laubach retires from RML Richard Laubach, a resident of Stevensville and the current Supervisor of the Grounds Maintenance branch at the Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) in Hamilton, is entering retirement after concluding an impressive 43-year career with the federal government. Mr. Laubach worked in many different positions during his federal service starting with nine years in the U.S. Navy as a Boilerman. Upon honorable discharge from the Navy, he was hired by the National Institutes of
Health (NIH) at their main campus in Bethesda, Maryland, serving as an operator for the campus Boiler/ Refrigeration Plant. After 23 years with NIH, Mr. Laubach transferred to their RML campus in Hamilton, where he has served as building maintenance, ultralow freezer repair, and roads and grounds supervisor for the past eleven years. Everyone at RML wishes him all the best in his retirement and future endowers and thanks him for his many years of dedicated public service.
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Obituaries Donnette L. Schoepke Stevensville - On November 17, 2020 after waging a 24-year battle with brain tumors, Donnette L. Schoepke of Stevensville, MT passed away, surrounded in her final hours by her loving husband of 41 and a half years, her loving son Morgan, and her ever faithful border collie, Callie. In April of 2017 she was told she had 7-8 months to live, as all attempts to kill or slow down the growth of her current brain tumor had failed. She informed the doctor that she intended to live to celebrate her 50th wedding anniversary, and that she would live longer than eight months. She lived another 3 1/2 years, but in the end succumbed to her tumor. She put up a great fight, avoided self-pity and chose to make the best of all her days, maintaining a positive attitude throughout her ordeal, and never giving up hope. She would always tell others, to “live for today, for tomorrow is promised to no one.” She was beautiful, smart, funny, loved being around people, and dedicated her life to her son and husband. She was a hard worker, who loved animals, and spent numerous hours working with her dogs over the years. People would always comment on how well trained, and well behaved her dogs were. Donnette also had a love of flowers, and gardening. She loved landscaping and over the years, landscaped three different homes she lived in. Her favorite flowers were peonies, tulips, and daffodils, and her current home is awash with them in spring. Donnette also had a strong sense of community and was active in the Stevensville
school system. She volunteered for over 22 years, touching the lives of many students at the school. She also served on the Board of Directors of the Stevensville Community Foundation, was active with the Stevensville PTA, and was a member of the Stevensville Garden Club. Donnette was born May 9, 1957 in Santa Barbara, CA to Donna and Carson Kittle, the third child in a family that would eventually grow to five children. Shortly after her birth, her parents moved north to Goleta, CA, and that is where Donnette grew up. Donnette attended IslaVista Elementary School, Goleta Valley Junior High School, and Dos Pueblos High School. Upon graduation from high school in 1975, Donnette attended Santa Barbara City College for two years and attained her AA degree. While a freshman in high school, Donnette met and fell in love with the love of her life, Steven Schoepke. They started dating in August of 1972, and were married in Santa Barbara on May 5, 1979 and spent the next 41 and a half years together. After they were married, they moved to Redmond, WA to be closer to the seaports Steven was sailing out of. Their son Morgan was born in
James W. ‘Bill’ Ralston Darby - Dad went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thanksgiving evening at his Darby home with his wife of 66 years, Ardis, at his side. He was 85. Bill Ralston was born November 5, 1935 in Missoula, MT, to William Allen and Bertha “Peggy” Ralston. They lived in New Mexico and Wyoming before settling at the Piquett Creek Ranch on the West Fork of the Bitterroot. Bill was the eldest of three children. His sisters were Nancy and Judy Beth. On June 5, 1954, Bill married Ardis Seeger at Lost Trail Hot Springs. After graduating from Darby High School, they moved to Seeley Lake where he worked for the State Highway Department. They had three children, Steve, Julie and Scott. In 1963, Dad got into the trucking business and moved to Missoula. He spent many road construction seasons in places like Battle Mountain, Nevada and Elk City, Idaho. After moving to the Bitterroot Valley in 1967, Bill hauled ore off the Fluorspar mine up Rye Creek for several years. In 1980, he teamed up with son Steve to form Ralston Trucking. This was a successful venture that took them to Darby, Sparks, NV and Phoenix, AZ. Bill retired at age 75 and lived with Ardis at their ranch west of Darby until his passing.
Dad was a talented country western guitar player/song writer and Gospel music singer. He recorded several CDs. Among many of notable favorite songs that he wrote are “There’s a River” and “A Mile at a Time.” Dad was also an accomplished horseman and team-roper, winning many buckles and a saddle. He was an avid fly-fisherman and prospector. Dad was a loving husband, father, grandfather and greatgrandfather. He was well liked and respected by all who knew him. He will be dearly missed by all. Dad loved the Lord and proposed in his heart to read his Bible every day of his life. “But I do not want you to be ignorant brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no
Redmond in 1984. In 1991, the family moved to Stevensville, MT. In 1992, the construction of their dream home on Sunset Bench in Stevensville was completed. Donnette enjoyed the views their new home provided them. She always said it had the best views in the valley of Bitterroot Mountains to the west, and the Sapphire Mountains to the east. She loved Montana. Donnette is preceded in death by her beloved mother Donna Kittle and father Carson Kittle of Goleta, CA. She is survived by her husband Steven Schoepke of Stevensville MT, son, Morgan (Irena Kosarev) of Colorado Springs, CO; brothers, Stephan (N.J. Covell), Gary (Sheila Atkinson), Brian (Kris Koart), all of Goleta, CA; sister Bonnie, of Olympia, WA; grandchildren, Logan, and Finely; brother and sister in law, Rudy (Helyn Inglema) of Homer, AK, and many loving and caring nieces, nephews and cousins. Donnette requested no services but did want friends and family to gather in a celebration of her life, sometime in the future. Plans for a celebration of Donnette’s life will be announced at a later date. One will take place in Stevensville, Montana, and the other one in Santa Barbara, CA. Our sincere appreciation goes to all those who assisted in the care of Donnette during her last seven months here at home. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Marcus Daly Hospice Services. Condolences may be left for the family at www. dalyleachchapel.com.
hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus. Therefore comfort one another with these words.” 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14; 18 Bill was preceded in death by his parents and his grandson, Jarrod Ralston. Dad is survived by his wife Ardis; son, Steve Ralston and wife Kelly of Darby; daughter, Julie Lovig of Reno, NV; son, Scott Ralston and wife Julie of Hamilton, MT; his sister, Nancy Hebnes of Philipsburg, MT; and his sister, Judy Lemmer of Turah, MT. Dad is also survived by grandchildren, Jennifer (Kevin) Hunt of Sparks, NV, Justin (Jamie) Lovig of Reno, NV, Shane (Kristi) Ralston of Florence, MT, Shayla (Chester) Smith of Choteau, MT, Bret (Mandy) Ralston of Astoria, OR, and Cody (Heather) Ralston of Kingsland, GA; and 13 greatgrandchildren, Cody Felices and Kammi Hunt, Jayden and Sofia Lovig, Emory and Heath Ralston, Aemelia and William Smith, Max, Stella, and Ezra Ralston, Rex and Charlotte Ralston. A memorial service for Dad will be held in the spring of 2021. We will miss you, but we will see you again in the presence of the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:6-8. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.
Hoping you and your loved ones are well and enjoying a safe Holiday season. Sincerely, A2Z Personnel
Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
Jeff Scussel
Florence - Jeff Scussel of Florence, Montana died on Thursday, November 19th in St. Patrick’s Hospital after contracting COVID-19 in October. Jeff was born October 6, 1946 in New York City, NY. He was raised in Phoenix, AZ by father, Gelso “Chick” Scussel and mother, Tatianna Rewiski Scussel. He attended Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff and graduated with a degree in Forestry. His career in the United States Forest Service spanned 40 years, living in Northern California, Alaska and Montana. While working in Northern California he met Tracy, the love of his life, and they were married in 1971. Three children and numerous labs joined the family. Tanya Scussel Kanenwisher (American Fork, Utah), Chad Scussel (Juneau, AK), and Tammy Scussel Williams (Nampa, ID) along with Ben, Brandy, Hunter and Gunnar, his faithful Labrador pups. Raising the three kids in Libby, Montana with Tracy, Jeff continued his advancement in the Forest Service and found his passion for wildland fire fighting as well. He was a Type I Plans Chief for many years where he met many great people that remain good friends today. Jeff transferred to the Regional Office in Missoula where he worked in Fire and Aviation Management and retired in 2008. Not to be idle for long, Jeff then went to work for EMSI, an emergency management company where he traveled extensively teaching the Incident Command System to private industry, Coast Guard and others. Tracy joined him with this company and it is during this time they met their very good friends, Pat and Chuck Mills. Chuck introduced them to the world of Harley riding and a
new passion was born. Together they traveled throughout the United States on their Harley Trikes, seeing much of this beautiful country and visiting 209 National Parks and Monuments. It was a GREAT ride! Jeff was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latterday Saints and served in many leadership capacities. He devoted years to the Boy Scout program and loved teaching them about the woods and enjoying the outdoors. One of the highlights of his life was serving with Tracy as they served a mission in Wyoming at the Wyoming Mormon Trail Mission, walking miles and miles with youth to help them gain an
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understanding and appreciation of their pioneer history. His great love was his family and he was devoted to them. He was a “papa” to 12 grandchildren, Collin, Beau, Noah, Seth and Hope Kanenwisher; Maisie, Adalea and Sawyer Williams; and Justin, Jessica, Caleb and Carly Joy Scussel. He loved them fiercely and will be watching out for them from the other side with the same passion he did in this life. Jeff is also survived by his wonderful Aunt Nan Summer and cousin Gerald Davis, both of Phoenix, AZ. We will miss him – his wonderful cooking, his sense of adventure, his willingness to help others. We appreciate the outpouring of love and support the family has received. A memorial service will be held later this summer. In lieu of flowers please visit Plant-A-Tree Program/US Forest Service or the Arbor Day Foundation, Trees for Others to donate, so that trees might be planted in Jeff’s name. Also, to honor Jeff, please take care of those close to you, as well as those you have never met, by wearing a mask during this very difficult pandemic. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
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Page 14-- Bitterroot Star
Museum continued
Wednesday, December 2, 2020 the clues.” She said that George Furniss, a geologist at the Bitterroot College, and people at the Ice
Age Institute were very helpful in helping the museum highlight the local evidence.
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The exhibit is being funded by the James Nieman Foundation and the Montana History Foundation. The actual production of the exhibit is a joint effort between the Paradise Center and the Natural History Center in Missoula and the Ravalli County Museum. Stanley said the whole idea was to present the story of the Ice Age and floods from the Bitterroot perspective. “It’s right here for everyone to see and it’s right here in our backyard,” she said. Not only that, you can see some very interesting evidence right in the front yard of the museum. It’s a giant “erratic”, a stone that was scraped off the mountain top in one place and carried along only to be dropped somewhere else when the glacier subsided. This particular erratic was not dropped here on the lawn. It was dropped up on the mountainside as the glacier covering this area retreated. The rock was found by a man who knew a lot about rocks because he had been digging up rocks all his life, “Bus” Donaldson, now deceased. The rock was sledded down and ice-rafted to the River Ranch south of Ham-
ilton. Stanly said that Ron Bell, whose family owned the River Ranch, can remember playing on the rock as a child about 60 or 70 years ago. Several informative signs have been erected around the large stone introducing and explaining the exhibit. The exhibit inside is planned to include kid’s activities such as a chance to draw their own geological pictures using a light table and a microscope that they can use to examine geologic specimens that will be provided. The staff is also still culling through the museum’s extensive collections to find things appropriate to display in the exhibit. They have some nice geologic specimens that will be on display. They have core samples and examples of different moraine rocks and the interpretation of the three main types of rocks that are found in the Bitterroot. “Just yesterday we found three very old maps showing the Bitterroot in three stages of inundation by the glacial lake,” said Stanley. The Glacier Exhibit is set to open pre-Christmas and, according to Stanley, it will stay open for a while.
Winter Enrollment Begins Monday, December 7th umt.edu/molli or 406-243-2905
Call for your free estimate To l l F re e : 1-855-MQS Barn
(677-2276)
“We want the schools to all have a chance to get in there,” said Stanley. She said that Assistant Director Nancy Ann Bevins was planning to create a virtual tour of the exhibit that can be used in the schools as well. Bevins is currently creating virtual tours of every exhibit in the museum. “The virtual tours are more interactive than the old style photograph and description,” said Stanley. “They have a person showing the artifacts and talking about them and explaining their significance.” This will be the last full museum exhibit that Stanley will be installing, although she does have a few more already planned for the director that may follow. She plans on retiring after 12 years as the museum’s director at the end of the year. Stanley, who has been in charge of planning and installation of many complex exhibits over the years and knows the immense amount of work involved, has sketched out two more future exhibits to give them something they could choose to do while they got their own plans together, or not, said Stanley. She is excited about the idea of a Faces of Montana exhibit all about local famous and infamous people with images, artifacts and a narrative about each one. Stanley said, “You can’t be static. One of the things I’ve taken great pride in over the years is that we have not been static.” “You’ve got to stay current and stay relevant and stay fun,” she said. “That’s something. People don’t think of museums as being fun.” She said kids know it’s got to be fun but it can be fun for adults, too. She said some folks are really going to enjoy some of the Ernst Peterson photos that they have pulled out from when he toted his large camera and tripod out into the wilds of the Bitterroot and took photos of things such as limestone walls and other geological phenomena. Stanley doesn’t plan on leaving town and she is looking forward to enjoying a fine retirement here.
Serving Select Regions of: Montana, Idaho and Washington [For detailed service areas, please visit our website]
w w w. m q s b a r n . c o m
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Page 18-- Bitterroot Star
KICK OFF THE CHRISTMAS SEASON with the Parade of Lights, Car Edition
Friday December 4th at 6:30 pm downtown Stevensville
The Very Merry
Christmas Tree Auction
Decorate your vehicle with Christmas decor, play some Christmas music and take part in the parade of lights
No entry form or fees • Everyone is Welcome Businesses are encouraged to participate with decorated vehicles too!
Cars will line up behind the Driver’s Service by 6pm
being led by the Stevensville Volunteer Fire Department & Santa! For More details call Joan at 531-8401
NOW OPEN ON MAIN STREET
STEVENSVILLE
SPECIALIZING IN TAKE OUT PICK-UP TO GO FOOD (COVID SAFE)
BEER BURGERS AND CHRISTMAS PARADE Enjoy Blacksmith Beer by burn barrels, Shack Burgers, and the
Online
December 4th- December 13th All trees created by Stevensville Businesses and are on display Dec. 4th-13th All proceeds go to the Stevensville Civic Club to be used for community projects! Event is Sponsored by:
Stevensville Christmas Parade of Lights “Car Edition” down Main Street. Friday 12/4 6:30-8pm
Totally Local Since 1985
http://charityauction.bid/ParadeofTrees Bitterroot Valley • Montana We’ve got you covered!
COME TRY YOUR LUCK!!!
OLE’S At the Wye in Stevi
Now collecting food donations at the Bitterroot Star for Pantry Partners
Fast Friendly Service Our Deli offers Great Food & Fast Service
Give the gift of food this Holiday Season Bring your Food donations to the Bitterroot Star
WE’VE GOT THE COLDEST BEER IN TOWN!
LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED
Peace of Mind • Effective 11/2/2020 to 12/31/2020 • Low Payments • Low Interest • Quick Approval*
Or drop off cash donations at the Star
Non-perishable food items only please
FOOD DRIV E
HEY!
All Stevi Businesses, we challenge you to donate food or a cash donation!!! If you need a donation box for your business call the Star.
All Food & Money stays right HERE in this community!
Member FDIC
Holiday Loans Farmers State Bank www.farmersebank.com
*O.A.C. All locations
Community Newspaper
www.bitterrootstar.com Questions?215Call Bitterroot Star 777-3928 Mainthe • P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone (406) 777-3928 • Fax (406) 777-4265
Wednesday, DecemberWednesday, 2, 2020 2009 Wednesday, December December 3,2, 2008
Bitterroot Star -- Page 15
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A Country Christmas
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Happy Holidays!
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SELWAY CORPORATION Book Signing:SASS Summers Come Art toRun the studio for a Annual Happy5th Holidays from all of us atat the Main Street Association Gift Fair Show & FAMILY PORTRAIT 212 Fundraiser Main St - Stevensville
Merry We’ve got Centerpieces! Christmas -Dr. Harry Yaskus
Thank you Stevensville for 39 wonderful years of business!
PEACOCK FLORAL
Stevensville
Don’t Wait! Order for your Holiday Party Today!
the touching story a former movie actor and 1stIt’sFriday ~ ofDec 5, 5:30 - his 9 pm fatherless young cousin. Set along the back roads of rural Americato your inbox Poinsettias Are In! Delivered written James (Jim) Cotton, Stevensville, Montana. Happy We Deliver SbytevenSville Hwith otel Hamilton to Florence You can count on Dr.from Barry Yaskus for the our Christmas set up for a Liquor ba Mountain West Cooperative Drawing 311 Mai n Street, Stevensvi l e Holiday same quality and compassionate dental care New Year Original Art 115 Main e St Stevensville 777-9854 $35 PERe PHOTO - get signed up! 777-5441Show & Sale Shi’atsuBodywork e e you’ve always received from our office. Arts & Crafts Drink Specia e Cards, e Greeting Reiki e Alpine - Hot Chocolate e Drop in anytime Reflexology & Home-based Business Greetings YaskusSeason’s Dental Clinic e e Ornament Raffle, Schnapps, Hot Buttered R CranioSacral Serving the Bitterroot Valley since 1971 ebetween 5-8pm e Food & More! Show Blue Margaritas Lymphatic Drainage Whitesitt eon Friday, Dec. 4 e 105 Ravalli St. (Next to Beaded Pony) 3rd &Family Church St.Energy Healing Quantum • St. Center e e Mary’s 203 Barbara Street Funeral Home Frequency Specific Microcurrent •e 304 Main • 215 Main e 777-3087
Gone Fishin’
• All Natural Soy Candles & Melts • Unique Gifts • House Plants
About Fabric Happy 777-3727 Stevensville 777-5582 314 Church, Be sure to sign up for win Stevensville “Shop Stevensville” gift 777-5711 certificates! Stevensville
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777-4100 a gift that lasts.
11 a.m. - Beginning Iy
New & Remodels Draw Books for Discounts • Outdoor • History • Cookbooks Noon - Feldenkrais Youroffice Satisfaction is Our Guarantee! Available at our Gift Fair booth or at our 1 p.m. - Gentle Yoga
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Stocking Stuffers & Gift Certificates
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►Saddle Clearance Locally Owned & Operated STONEYDALE PRESS
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Let us Take the Stress Out Of Your Holiday Season! Country Living
Olivier Olive Oils & Balsamics School Daze
Happy Holidays
Baking Kits
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Pepper Jelly We’re Open �
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Everyone for&Breakfast Thymes Bath Open Mon-Sat 10a-7p & on Your Body prodcuts Sunday’s 12p-4p Lunch Christmas list! 3961 Hwy 93 . Stevensville . 406-777-2824 & Dinner 204 W.www.madisoncreekfurnishings.com Main • Hamilton • 363-7701 / 229B Main • Stevensville • 777-5402
Be GOOD To Yourself! GET FIT
Longhorn
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600 Main Street • 777-5791
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other titl 3 p.m. Many - The Twelve In Please com
We wish you & your STONEY in Ornaments • Stockings Please also make note of our special 50% OFF family Y a oga yog 523 Main “Slightly Hurt •Book Sale” currently underway at • Jewelry Tack • Purses 217 Main ST. C (up Hours M-F, 9 a.m. t Merry Christmas! ste. our Stevensville Office.
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Celebrate Jesus
spe 3905 Hwy. 93 Stevensville 777-0903 2 p.m.Available - Tai Chi on Demo
523 Main Street • Stevensville ToysM-F, • Clothing • Western Hours 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. • Phone: 406-777-2729
OOK S IGNIN First Friday Will Po G t’s all about Gifts tter Author AT 6-9pm of “His Po
MUSIC g Featu ri n t is p Ha r Ha r ris Su zan ne
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of New Saturday - Free Cl Releases Plus 9 a.m. - Beginning As Installation Available Before Christmas Many Others! 10 a.m. - Hatha Yoga Friday & Saturday Happenings
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Friday Night Open 1 Come and check 0 - 6 Mon - Fri Refreshments out our supply 10 - 5 Sat Hot Sales!
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for more information
CHRISTMAS BOOKS hoFair r gGift n nthe o L Holidays!Fair At: At 46 Stevensville Cutoff Road . StevensvilleTrading . 777-0400 Co. Books represent
Warm up with Hot Cider OPEN HOUSE with Hot Chocolate LOTS of GOODIES!!! Coffees Don’t forget our Paninis and Wraps! �
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Shirley McKibbin, CMT
Saturday, Dec. 6th • 10 am-3 pm
Open until 9 this Friday
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777-5802
Visit Appointments: www.stevensvillehotel.com NCBTMT #284480 777.3226 Tiffanyphotographymt.com Friday, Dec. 5th • 5 pm-9 pm
Serving the Bitterroot Since 1902 The Christmas Bill and Helen Kropp
Celebrate Happy
Holidays!
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Connect with the world’s most powerful School Daze New beginners travel search engine - your travel agent. Friendly Service Where the Winners 300 BFast, Main Street www.bigsky-travel.com ™ Open Every Day Classes all Roost and Play! MT Family Frie 300 B Main Stevensville Street Our Deli Offers Great Food Quic Kutz Dies! At the Wye in Stevensville Stevensville 777-6934 MT
Family Friendly Start Try our: LIVING! Daily Specials GET FIT
3D mammograms: Now in Stevensville. 777-6934 Relief felt everywhere.
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Merry C Happ
Give animal friends Peace of Mind This Christmas! 6th your Annual SASS Show Trading Co. Appetizers the gift security. Give theof Gift of Art 777-4100 Salads Don’t forget Friday Night 4039 Hwy 93 N., Suite B Stevensville Great Burgers the Bake Sale 1st Friday ~ Dec 4, 5:30 - 9 pm Stop by for sponsored by
Get Your Membership Gift Certificate Hot Chocolate Today!
Member of Sterling Forever Fit Medicare Supplement Bounds Full Bar Program
From 777-1144 Microchips StevenSville Hotel Get HEALTHY for 2010! $29.50 all of Low Cost Gifts, Ornaments, Food & More! STEVENSVILLE Draw for Discounts us Mystery Sales $15PHYSICAL THERAPY $20 $100 OFF on Saddles Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic OFF $50 OFF atOFF and Aquatic Center
and Hot Sales!
Leaps & on Friday Night
New Year’s 3Friday month& Saturday Happenings introductory Specials membership 1 year paid in advance
Toys • Clothing • Western Ornaments • Stockings • Jewelry • Tack • Purses
Special prices good thru Dec 31 2009.
Open 24 Hours a Day • 7 Days a Week Stevensville & Hamilton
10 punch day pass card
Usage must start by Open FebruaryLate 28, 2010.
this month!
& Casino
Happy Holidays d
e e e e Vote for a Mural e for RiverPark Storage e e designed by local kids! e 3rd & Church St. e 4818 Eastside Hwy 777-3087
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VALLEY TH
e e e e e e e e e
Stevensville, MT 59870 www.stevensvillehotel.com 777-3844 Affiliated with Advanced Imaging has added a 3D™ Digital
Corvallis & Hamilton Physical Therapy
Mammography facility in Stevensville. While taking away worries about cancer
Providing the Bitterroot Valley with expert physical in the process. The procedure takes therapy services since 1998. We offer board certified therapists in sports, orthopedics, less than 15 minutes and walk-ins are welcome. and hand therapy Stevi Junction Plaza (by Verizon Wireless) Learn more about our practice: call 777-5354 Stevi Junction Plaza U.S. Highway 93 (by Verizon Wireless) or visit us on the web at www.stevipt.com 8am to 4:30pm U.S. Highway 93 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri. 420 Main Street • Stevensville Mon - Fri
Tim Nielsen, P. Ambe
3802 Eastside H Als 1001 SW Hig
Wednesday, November 25, 2020
Page 16-- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 17
Contest Entry Location Maps Have a Great Time 18
at the Parade of Lights
18
TREES
STOREFRONTS
1) Clearwater Credit Union 107 Main Street “Winter Wonderland”
4 41
2) Grub Shack 110 Main Street “The Grub Shack Tree”
4
W. 2nd
3) Blacksmith Brewery 114 Main Street “Holiday Beer”
4
1) Lutzenhiser Jewelry 118 Main
2 3
1
Merry Christmas!
2) Starrett Artists 211 Main
Rates from $110 7 Private Bathrooms
3) A2Z Personnel 215 Main
E. 2nd
4) Potton Insurance Agency 221 Main
6) Farmers Insurance/Brian Potton 221 Main Street “Frosty Forest”
3
6) Lydia Rae 306 Main
6
4
Buck
5) Starrett Artists 211 Main Street “White Holiday”
5
Church
2
5) Valley Drug 301 Main
Main
4) CHS Mountain West Co-Op 115 Main Street “Winter Wonderland”
7
7) Misson Bistro 225 Main Street “Mission Bistro”
406-777-3087 www.StevensvilleHotel.com
Stevensville Hotel est. 1910
7) Eickert Realty 307 Main 8) Maddimo Makery 309 Main
AZ 2
9) Sabai 314 Main
W. 3rd
8) Exit Realty Bitterroot Valley 300 Main Street “Homes for the Holidays”
11 10
9) Valley Drug & Variety 301 Main Street “Valley Drug” 10) Bitterroot Star 115 West 3rd Street “Stevensville - The First Best Place”
E. 3rd
5
9
8
7
13
12
8
15
14
10
16
11) Thiele Fitness 304 Buck Street “Operation Theile Fitness Christmas”
W. 4th
12) Tiffany Photography 306 Main Street “Farmhouse Festive”
10) River’s Mist Gallery 317 Main
personnel Hamilton, Inc.
11) Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic 3682 Eastside Hwy
Season’s Greetings from Santa’s Helpers
6
9
E. 4th
Ravalli
13) Eickert Realty 307 Main Street “Eickert Realty”
215 Main Street • Stevensville 777-1662 • www.a2zpersonnel.net
14) Grains of Grace 308 Main Street “Grains of Grace Grand Opening”
Central
15) Maddimo Makery 309 Main “Maddimo Makery”
5th
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16) Sabai 314 Main Street “Gnome for the Holidays”
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2) Historic St. Mary’s Mission 315 Charlos “The Heart of Christmas”
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5) Brandon & Tasha Dewey 121 Turner Street “Dewey Family” 6) Jaime Devlin 302 Syringa “Holiday Happiness” 7) Amy & Jerry Mulhauser 495 Sunrider Lane (mile marker 72) “Patriotic Christmas”
63 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-5411
Did Someone Say Santa? While Santa is staying at the North Pole until Christmas Eve, he did send a photo backdrop so everyone can still get a picture!
Stop in t he & get yo Lobby ur Selfie !
of trees OFFICIAL BALLOT (vote for your 1st and 2nd choice in each category) Help make Stevensville a magical place this holiday season! Let's decorate the businesses and homes around Main Street. PRIZES AWARDED FOR BEST DECORATIONS IN EACH CATEGORY BELOW! Maps will be printed in the Bitterroot Star for locating those participating in the Holiday decorations. 1st Place ___________________________________________________ Choose your category(s) below, fill out the entry form and turn it in by November 20th.
TREES
2nd Place __________________________________________________ BUSINESS:
WINDOWS STOREFRONTS Decorate
BUSINESS:
RESIDENT:
Decorate Decorate A Tree Your Yard Storefront Window 1st Place ___________________________________________________
Decorate and display a tree in your Decorate the exterior of your home Decorate your storefront windows place of Business. Trees will be and/or yard for everyone to admire! for all passerbys to enjoy. auctioned off and proceeds will be Maps will be printed with your address 2nd donated. Place Trees ___________________________________________________ will be provided and prizes awarded for best display! by A2Z Personnel.
YARDS
___________________________________________________________ Name
_______________________________ Phone (will NOT be printed)
1st Place ____________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Business Name (if applicable)
2nd Place ___________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________________________________ Holiday Theme or Name you would like listed on the Map
301 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-5591
Place your completed ballot in ANY of the ballot boxes _________________________________________________________________________________________________ located near each tree. Address for Map Thank you and Happy Holidays! We want this event to be enjoyable for everyone! Please keep all decorations within the seasonal/holiday theme, and appropriate for all ages. Registration deadline is November 20th. Registration forms may be mailed in or dropped off
Wednesday, December 2, 2020
Page 16-- Bitterroot Star
Merry Christmas! Stop in & Vote For
Considering upgrading to a new computer?
Frosty the Snow Man
Ask Bev the Geek first!
Bought a new computer?
as the Best Tree for the Parade Of Trees
Bev the Geek can move your data files for you!
From our Families to Yours
Happy Holidays!
Stay Safe & Healthy this Holiday Season BRIAN POTTON
221 Main St, Stevensville . 777-3626
May Your Christmas and Your Smile be Merry and Bright!
KIRK L CREWS, MD
What to do with your old computer? Bev the Geek will recycle! (current / new clients only)
Mobile, Remote or in my Office Call Bev at 777-GEEK (4335) By Appointment
401 Main Street . Stevensville, MT . 59870 • 406.777.7251
Lutzenhise r JeJewelry welry Lutzenhiser We are sti ll here and open for y our Holid ay We still and share oppin g aphere pointment! Call ufor open s atyour Holiday
shopping appointment! 77 -33at94 Call7us and we’ll set-up a ti me that 777-3394
accwe’ll ommoset-up & dates ya outime r busy sche that accommodates dule! Wyour e offebusy r free schedule! gift We offer free gift wrapping and a lot o f of and a lot Chwrapping ristmas Spirit!!
Lutzenhiser Jewelry 118 Main S t. Lutzenhise r Jewelry
118 Main St Stevensville , MT 59870 Stevensville 777-3394
Christmas Spirit!
Mission Bistro
Local Food. Local Folks.
Call for Indoor Dining, Take Out & Purchasing Gift Certificates Join us for Hot Chocolate & Cookies!
First Friday December 4th, 3pm-8pm Vote for our tree
“Homes for the Holidays”
625-2777
Haircuts - Color Keratin Treatment - Waxing www.missionbistromt.com
in the Parade of Trees!
Buying orSelling?We are in your corner
Your Trusted Advisor Give us a call today to start the process!
Wed thru Sat 5 - 10pm • Sun 9am - 3pm
EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY
225 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-6945
300 Main Street, Stevensville 406-375-9251 | www.EXITMT.com
Merry Christmas CHRISTMAS HOURS 9am-12pm Thursday 12.24.2020 CLOSED Friday 12.25.2020 & Saturday 12.26.2020
NEW YEAR HOURS
Stop in for a home cooked meal! BREAKFAST, LUNCH, DINNER
Open 7 Days a Week • DINE-IN
TO GO ORDERS 777-4228 3954 US Highway 93 N • Stevensville, MT
Happy Holidays!
Happy Holidays! Baked Goods Baking Supplies Jams & Jellies • Candies Canned Goods Deli Meats & Cheeses Fresh Sandwiches Quilts & Clocks and More . . .
forget Don’t or our ef to vot rated Deco ow! Wind
9am-5pm Thursday 12.31.2020 CLOSED Friday 01.01.2021 & Saturday 01.02.2021 The Pet Emergency Center (406) 829-9300 and Sentinel Veterinary Medical Center (406) 218-2800 will be open during these times for small animal emergencies. The Large Animal Doctor will be on call for emergencies while we are closed. 406-777-3844
The BFVC Staff wishes you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! We're so grateful to be a part of this community! 3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com
$3 OFF ANY LARGE PIZZA
Shopping all day? (Expires Dec. 25, Too Tired 2020) to Cook? Kodiak Jax can help! Dine in, Delivery (in Stevensville area) or Take Out.
777-0910
4362 Eastside Hwy • Stevensville • 406-361-9186