Bitterroot Star - December 21, 2023

Class Fee: $25.00

16 Hours/8 Classes Tuesdays 6 – 8pm Jan. 31 • Feb. 7, 14, 21, 28 • Mar. 7, 14, 21

In this course you will learn the basic stitches to complete a hand-stitched design. PARTICIPANTS WILL PROVIDE MATERIALS NEEDED FOR INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS.

◆THE SIMPLE SKETCHBOOK

Instructor: Diana Haker

Class Fee: $25.00

12 Hours/ 8 Classes Tuesdays 5 – 6:30pm Feb. 14, 21, 28 • Mar. 7,

learners who would love to help! Please join us for a night of fun!

◆SOCIAL SCRAPBOOKING

Instructor: Amy Grassey

Class Fee: $10.00

MATERIAL FEE: $10.00 (PAID TO THE INSTRUCTOR

– NO DISCOUNTS)

6 Hours/ 3 Classes Tuesdays 6 - 8 pm Feb. 28 • Mar. 7, 14,

We are back to scrapbook together in person! Yay!

Each night we will construct a 2-page layout featuring a diferent technique to enhance the pages. Join our group and learn some fun easy ways to create beautiful pages while making new friends!

◆CARDIO STRENGTH & INTERVAL

ZOOM CLASS

Instructor: Doris Swanson Class Fee: $25.00

Since this is a ZOOM class, participants will need a computer or other device that has a video/microphone or camera/microphone that can access the Internet and use a video conferencing app. Your instructor will provide instructions for joining the class with ZOOM

Join us for an evening that will enhance your fitness!

6 Hours/6 Classes Mondays 6 – 7pm Jan. 17, 43, 31 • Feb. 7, 14, 21

See results from this group of interval training, functional resistance, and core exercises. This is a Tabata-based interval workout. (Tabata Interval Training was developed by Dr. Izumi Tabata in 1996.

The individual works at a maximum intensity for 20 seconds, followed by 10 seconds of rest for 8 rounds.)

Recommended for all ftness levels.

DUMBBELLS AND A MAT ARE PREFERRED.

◆MUSCLE -TONING

Instructor: Doris Swanson

Class Fee: $25.00

5 Hours/5 Classes Mondays 6-7 pm Mar. 6, 13, 20, 27 • Apr. 3

This class is designed to condition your body with resistance training workouts. We will focus on every muscle group with the intent of improving your strength, endurance, and muscle tone. Recommended for all ftness levels.

DUMBBELLS AND A MAT ARE PREFERRED.

OULA DANCE FITNESS

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Instructor: Karinna Blodgett

Class Fee: $25.00

8 Hours/8 Classes Tuesday 6–7 pm

Jan. 31 • Feb. 14, 21, 28 • Mar. 7, 14, 21, 28

Oula merges high-intensity cardio with easy-tofollow choreography, mindfulness practices, and a culture of inclusivity - all to an energetic pop soundtrack. Every Oula class empowers participants to challenge their bodies and process their emotions

through music, movement, and most importantly, a community connection! Join us for an evening of aweinspiring exercise and a lot of fun!

ALL LEVELS YOGA

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Instructor: Lisa Rogers Class Fee: $35.00

11 Hours/11 Classes Thursdays 6 - 7pm Jan. 19, 26 • Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23 • Mar. 2, 16, 23, 30 • Apr. 6

This course will be for beginners, people with some yoga experience and even more advanced participants. Using a mindful-approach and guiding the participants to tune into their bodies, we will explore the healing benefts of yoga.

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INSTINCTIVE MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS –

SESSION I

Instructor: Martha Piersma

Class Fee: $20.00

4 Hours/4 Classes Tuesday 6:30- 7:30pm Jan. 17, 24, 31 • Feb. 7

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INSTINCTIVE MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS –

SESSION II

Instructor: Martha Piersma Class Fee: $20.00

4 Hours/4 Classes Thursday 6:30- 7:30pm Feb. 16, 23 • Mar. 2,16

This course will restore calm to your days by learning to efectively bring calm to your day, even if you have a racing mind and a little spare time. The process is easier than you think.

Find Your Calm Place: Learn how to meditate quickly and easily in a modern way that helps you have more mental clarity, greater happiness, and less stress.

• Meditate Easily: Discover a no-rules approach. You don’t have to sit cross-legged on the foor, wear certain clothes, or practice for a long time to get results.

• Release Stress: Learn to unlock the relaxation response. Gain the confdence to meditate without relying on an app.

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BEGINNING COMPUTER COURSE

Instructor: Diana Haker Class Fee: $25.00

12 Hours/8 Classes Thursday 5–6:30 pm Feb. 9, 16, 23 • Mar. 2, 16, 23, 30 •Apr. 6 Are you intimidated by the computer? Then this course is for you. We will cover computer basics in a friendly, easy to understand format.

9 Hours/6 Classes Thursdays 6:30-8 pm Jan. 19, 26 • Feb. 2, 9, 16, 23

This class will be presented over ZOOM so participants will need a computer or other personal device that has a video/microphone set-up to use a video conferencing app. A desk and chair with good lighting are recommended. The instructor will email participants with how to join the class using the ZOOM video conferencing app.

This course recognizes that everyone has a world view whether they know it or not or think of their outlook in this kind of way. This class will challenge you to critically assess the world views that science and/or philosophy ofer. Is one better than the other? Is one closer to the truth? (Even if you don’t agree that these terms have validity, we’ll tackle that, too.) We’ll look at the information and then you can make the decision.

ELECTRIC CARS AND ALL YOU WANT TO KNOW

◆

Instructor: Dan Brandborg

Class Fee: $20.00

4 Hours/2 Classes Mon., Feb. 27 •Wednesday Mar. 1 5:30 - 7:30 pm

In this course you will learn about today’s Electric Vehicles (EV’s), diferences and advantageous of electric over gas vehicles, vehicle range, charging at home and on the highway, operating and ownership costs, various automakers solutions, battery advancements, recycling and environmental concerns, vehicle automation, embedded energy and efciencies, Hybrids versus full electrics, integration with home solar charging and electrical utilities. The class is designed to debunk many common myths associated with EV’s. This is a highly interactive class format with a good amount of time for questions.

Past presenter of renewable energy technical programs. Detailed study of EV industry for the last three (3) years. Taught Bitterroot College class in June of 2022 and The Learning Center in Missoula in the fall and was well-received.

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SURVIVING THE OUTDOORS

Instructor: LEE SCHARFF

Class Fee: $20.00

6 Hours/4 Classes Tues. & Thurs. 6:30-8 pm Jan. 24, 26, 31• Feb. 2

This course will explore how to survive in the outdoors, with the motto being, “Survival favors those most prepared.” We will cover frst-aid, food, water safety, proper clothing, tent,

The Stevensville Police Department held “Shop With a Cop” on December 10th. A total of 10 kids got to ride to Missoula in police cars, shop at Walmart for their family members and themselves, and then come back and have a gift wrapping and pizza party after. According to organizer Kristin Kruse, two deputies from Ravalli County also participated this year, allowing more children to be included. Ofcer Colt Hudson and his K9 “Bob” along with Deputy Josh Scoggins joined in the fun along with Stevensville police ofcers: Chief Mac Sosa, Ofcer Todd Schafer and Ofcer Trevor Frandsen.

“Walmart store #2147 in Missoula along with their store manager Lane Baker have been very generous and supportive of us as a department and had special gifts for all the kids who came,” said Kruse. “I would also like to acknowledge our sponsor, Far West Storage. This is the second year they have funded this and they plan on continuing to do so in the future as well.”

Chief Sosa issued this statement about the program: Shop With a Cop started in 1989. Each year since then the concept has grown with thousands of children being served throughout the nation. What makes Shop With a Cop different is that children are given the opportunity to spend one-on-one time with ofcers, and that makes it a little more personal than some other events that are held or sponsored by ofcers or other police organizations.

Here in Stevensville, we send out applications to the school administration. This is done because they are more suited to identify children, that this type of event can better serve. Once the children are identifed, the parents are contacted to make sure that they agree for their child to participate, necessary paperwork is completed, and we take them on a shopping spree.

We have been very fortunate to have the sponsors that we do and the basic request that is made is that the children buy any clothes that they might need, a gift for other family members in the home

and choose a gift or two for themselves.

What we often fnd is that the children get great satisfaction in being given the opportunity to get gifts for others and it can be very humbling when watching them also be fragile with this opportunity. It’s not only a good experience for the children but very much so for the ofcers.

This year the Stevensville Police Department was able to partner with the Ravalli County Sherif’s ofce to have ofcers available for ten children and we hope to have the event continue to grow and include more ofcers in our area.

Please join us Saturday, Dec. 24 4 p.m. or 7 p.m. for our Traditional Christmas Eve Service

Please join us Saturday, December 24 at 4 p.m. or 7 p.m. for our Traditional Christmas Eve Service

Grace Lutheran Church 275 Hattie Lane, Hamilton

Ways to Give

compiled by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce

Mountain

Angel Tree for Linda Massa Youth Home

The Angel Tree to beneft the Linda Massa Youth Home is up at The Edge Restaurant.

Angel Tree for Ravalli Head Start Families

The Angel Tree to beneft the Ravalli Head Start families is up at The Massa Home Center.

Angel Trees for Sapphire Lutheran Homes Residents

There are Angel Trees at Faith Lutheran Church, Grace Lutheran Church, and First Presbyterian Church all located in Hamilton to help gift each of the residents at Sapphire Lutheran Homes.

Bell Ringing at Super One & Murdoch’s the Rotarions & Corvallis High School Interact Club

Visit Super One and Murdoch’s in Hamilton on Dec. 17th to donate to help provide Christmas for kids

Bitter Root Brewing’s Giving Board

The Giving Board will run through December 17th. The board includes gift card requests for items that are needed for SAFE, Emma’s House and Linda Massa Youth Home, 101 Marcus Street in Hamilton

Stevensville Police Ofcer Todd Schafer helds a boy wrap his gifts.

‘Shop With a Cop’ participants pose for a group photo.

True North Direct Primary Care opens in Hamilton

by Nathan Boddy

Dr. Robert Hart spent years imagining an improved model for healthcare, and has now taken steps to make it a reality by opening True North Direct Primary Care in Hamilton. Not only has Dr. Hart and his business partner, Wendy Hanson, begun providing a Direct Primary Care model to residents of the Bitterroot Valley, but they’ve also introduced a Transformative Health service that can be found at the same location.

“There is currently a huge moral and ethical dilemma in mainstream medicine these days,” says Dr. Hart, going on to say that much of our modern medicine is expensive, inefcient, impersonal, and largely dictated by what he calls the ‘industrial health complex.’

“Oftentimes, we fnd ourselves in a position where insurance companies and large health conglomerates are deciding what is best for patients and directing the physicians who actually see the patient,” says Hart. That dynamic has caused him and many other healthcare providers to question, “who are we really working for, the patient or the industry?”

It was precisely that question that drove Dr. Hart and Wendy Hanson –True North’s Chief Operations Ofcer and Registered Nurse – to choose a model of healthcare that provides an alternative. Direct Primary Care (DPC) streamlines healthcare by removing third parties from the patient/provider relationship, and does so at a monthly cost lower than most insur-

ance deductibles. While insurance can still be used to pay for other aspects of one’s healthcare needs such as labs, imaging, and medications, the cornerstone of stable healthcare – primary care – is paid for by a simple monthly membership fee. With membership comes full and unlimited access to services such as well child and pediatric appointments, acute/urgent care, annual wellness exams, sports medicine, chronic medical issue management and minor procedures, many of which can be done with same or next day appointments. True North’s current asking price for this subscription service is $200 a month for a family of four, a price that is less than most insurance plan deductibles.

“It shouldn’t cost $24,000 a year to treat strep throat and high blood pressure,” says Hart, “yet a majority of people have to pay in excess of this amount before their insurance starts covering the cost of their care.” Added to those costs are often the frustrations of long wait times, and the inefciency of impersonal care, all of which Hart thinks can be avoided through Direct

Primary Care. Transformative Health, a separate service ofered by True North, is one that takes a holistic approach to healthcare by focusing on multiple aspects of human health, including nutrition, life coaching and counseling, functional training, pain

being told by your doctor once a year to “eat healthy and exercise” does little for most people. Despite having given that same advice for 20 years, he says the results were often the same: weight gain, hypertension, diabetes, heart disease and more.

“It doesn’t matter how much medication we prescribe, we can’t out-prescribe an unhealthy lifestyle,” said Hart.

Chronic diseases such as obesity, pre-diabetes, diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular disease afect 6 out of 10 Americans with rates seeming to rise on an annual basis. To that end, True North Transformative Health promotes its service as a life changing contract, to take control over body and mind without diet fads or gimmicks.

The Transformative Health team at True North uses physical therapy and behavioral health, as well as CrossFit training and conditioning, to reverse or prevent the development of chronic disease. True North’s website clearly points out that quick and easy fxes are not possible, and that no medication or surgery can treat an unhealthy lifestyle. Still, Dr. Hart’s patients report tremendous success.

“The human condition is multidimensional and complex,” says Hart. “Without addressing the underlying causes [of chronic conditions], modern medications and the limited eforts made by mainstream medicine only serve as band-aids and not as

reduction and injury prevention. True North has employed a team of professionals to help clients reform their lives by tackling issues such as obesity and chronic conditions with notable results.

Dr. Hart, himself a CrossFit enthusiast and U.S. Army Ranger, says that his decision to start the Transformative Health program grew out of conversations with Bitterroot CrossFit owner, Jef Lewis, about the rise in chronic disease in America and how it was tied to lifestyle. Hart says that he could see how the traditional model of simply

To read testimonials and learn more about True North’s Transformative Health and Direct Primary Care, their website can be found at: https:// truenorthdpc.health and their physical location is: 1986 North 1st Street, just north of Hamilton RV Sales.

sustainable long-term solutions.”

Farrenkopf by

Photo Boddy.

Dr. Hart and Wendy Hanson of True North Direct Primary Care. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

The team of True North Transformative Health. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

Dr. Robert Hart (right) stands with Hamilton Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf at the recent grand opening of True North Direct Primary Care. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

regarding potential federal “strings attached” to the money, Arntzen said the only requirement was that districts would have to report how the money was spent. She said it was important to spend the money; if not spent it would be returned to the federal government.

“What I would like for Christmas is to help all teachers…,” said Arntzen. “We need to recognize that teachers are not counselors. Let’s take mental health of their plate and give them more resources. We need mental health services in our communities.”

Audience member Alan Lackey, a Republican who in November lost to Wayne Rusk in a bid to represent House District 88, told Arntzen, “Children used to be inculcated with American values but not anymore.” He said he knows a man whose daughter was being encouraged by her teacher “to

be a boy… Who sets the curriculum?”

Arntzen said that the state creates curriculum standards through a committee of seven people appointed by the governor. She said in Montnaa there is “no sexual information” in the classroom prior to the sixth grade. She noted that school boards and the community “can infuence the curriculum” but any changes or additions must be “aligned with state standards.”

Terry Lackey, who introduced herself as the president of the local chapter of John Birch Society, said it’s been “very difcult” for her to express her concerns to school boards. “They have shut meetings down because they don’t like what we have to say… Why are children being taught that it’s okay to have LGBTQP [“P” is for pedophile, she added] clubs in our school? Do you believe that’s okay?”

“It’s a tough question,” said Arnt-

zen.

“No, it’s a yes or no question,” said Lackey. “I guess I have my answer.”

“I thank you,” said Arntzen, “because you’re bright and you’re bold and you came here tonight to share that.”

Rep. Wayne Rusk (R-Corvallis) read a comment from a school board application he had flled out several years ago. “In addition to the obvious academic objectives of public education, it also serves to root our children in our nation. As proper grounding in the arts and sciences secures a fruitful future, so this common beginning establishes an important tie that binds each generation of our youth into countrymen as they face the cultural and political challenges that lie ahead.”

Rusk said later that he read that at the meeting because he wanted to say something positive about public education to counteract the contentiousness of some of the previous comments.

“I mean to ‘preserve, protect and defend’ the institution and those who work within it,” said Rusk, “not to deny that reforms are in order.”

Ultimately, Arntzen said that “parents are the very frst teachers. This discussion of sexualization of our children needs to happen at home.” She reiterated that according to state standards implemented in 2013, 6th grade is when sexual education begins at school. “There is nothing before that,” she said. “The trustees have the authority to decide how to handle this. But family frst. The school does not take over the child.”

Later in the meeting, Robert Prince, Stevensville elementary music teacher, said that he often talks with other teachers. “There are no conversations about gender identity or anything like that. Zero. Ever… The teachers I work with are the most dedicated, caring individuals I’ve ever met.” But he said that the pay was low, the morale was low, and there were many open teaching positions.

Arntzen said teachers should “bring people in, show them what you’re doing. Make sure that schools are transparent.”

Several times throughout the

meeting, Arntzen praised teachers and others who work in education, including parents. “Give grace to the parents, the families, the teachers, the children,” she said.

Mariah Cochran said she had four children attending Stevensville schools. “We need quality teachers who are paid well so they can aford to live here. Our housing market is out of control. Our teachers shouldn’t have to buy their own supplies and snacks” for the kids. She also said she would also like to see better funding for special education.

Tony Hudson, a member of the Stevensville school board, wanted to know how the growth in administration in volume and dollars compared to that of teachers. Arntzen responded that administration has experienced 87% growth but teachers only 10%.

Arntzen said that “90% of all [school] budgets are people.” She said the cost to educate a child in Montana is $12,000 per year, with $6000 of that coming from the state budget and the rest from other sources.

Another woman, who identifed herself as a teacher at Big Sky High School, said, “We’re at a crisis point in our schools. There is a sub shortage, they can’t fnd people. Teachers are being begged to not take sick days even when they’re really sick.”

Another woman identifed herself as a Child Development Specialist with a two-year degree. She said she makes $16 per hour, while her son just started working at Super 1 Foods for $17 per hour.

Ben Meyer, a Stevensville trustee, asked whether OPI could look at a statewide salary schedule to address the problem of low teacher salaries.

“That would be a legislative decision for the policy makers,” said Artnzen, “but it could be done.” She noted that the state currently has a $2 billion surplus.

At the end of the listening session, Arntzen asked for a round of applause, for teachers, for school leaders, for trustees, for parents, for children.

“How we come together with our schools is through local control working within our communities,” said Arntzen.

Christmas dinner

The 11th annual free Christmas Dinner will be held Christmas Day, December 25th at First Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall, 1220 W. Main, Hamilton. Please join in as the congregation worships the Savior’s birth by retelling the Christmas story through scripture and song. The meal will begin at 11 a.m. All food will be provided,

prepared and served by the church. This will include turkey, ham, gravy, rolls, dressing, vegetables and dessert. Christmas Dinner at 11 a.m., worship and carols at 11:30 a.m. and dessert at 12 p.m.

Volunteer tax return preparers needed

Every year from February to April, AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteers prepare tax returns free of charge at the Hamilton Senior Center for anyone who needs it, especially those 50 and older with low income. Due to Covid and the loss of volunteers, fewer returns have

been prepared but AARP is trying to rebuild the program. If you are comfortable with numbers, good with computers, and like meeting new people, consider becoming a volunteer. You do not need to be a member of AARP to volunteer and if you have no previous experience preparing taxes, you’ll get the training you need and receive IRS certifcation. If you are not interested in preparing taxes, you can still volunteer in other ways. For more information, visit www.mttaxaide. org, or leave a message at the Hamilton Senior Center, 406-3635181.

Soroptimist scholarships available

Hamiilton Soroptimist has over $40,000 for scholarships for women in trade, technical, certifcation, undergraduate, and advanced or graduate programs. Awards prioritize Ravalli County women with fnancial need, who are returning to school or training, or who are older women. Training or educational programs do not need to be within Ravalli County. See sihamilton. org/scholarships for scholarship options and criteria. Application deadline is January 31, 2023.

Reserve the NVPL Community Room

Organizations are welcome to reserve the NVPL Community Room for events that are civic, educational, cultural, intellectual, entertaining, or benefcial to the community. Events held must be free of charge and open to all. This room accommodates up to 67 people. Tables, chairs, and A/V available. To apply, go to northvalleypubliclibrary.org under My Library Services.

Bitterroot Star

Calendar Policy

The Bitterroot Star will run Calendar items for non-proft organizations free of charge. Deadline for each Wednesday’s paper is each Monday at 12 noon. Submit your item by email to: editor@bitterrootstar. com. For more information contact Victoria at 406-7773928.

by Thomas Spencer

they channeled a great amount of emotion,” said Heather Berry, head coach of the Darby Tigers, following their dramatic win over valley rival Victor, 51-47. Going into Friday’s game the Lady Tigers had struggled in their frst game against the Pirates, but it was a diferent story this weekend. Coach Berry aimed at clarifying expectations and focusing her athletes on what they could control.

Sports

Sports Editor

senior, wrestling at 205, was recognized as the Bitterroot Valley Wrestling Ambassador, won by pin in his match earlier in the day against Cadogan Wheat of Hamilton.

the game, much like they did in the frst matchup, until late in the fourth quarter. With a minute-forty remaining in the game it was 4143 Pirates and Victor senior Bella Schicilone forced a foul driving the lane and found herself at the foul line with the hope of going up by four. She nailed the frst one, 4144, then missed the second. With the ball back, Lady Tiger number 12 Samantha Shull launched up a jumper that banked in. Now in transition racing down the foor, Schicilone drove hard in the paint and drew another foul with the opportunity to extend the Pirate lead. After missing the frst, she hit the second, 43-45 Pirates. Then Lady Tigers inbounded the ball rushing down with 47 seconds remaining when freshman Petra Mustafa rebounded the long shot and banked in a basket with a foul sending her

On Saturday, December 17th, Corvallis hosted 10 wrestling teams at the Glyn Brawley Classic, including the teams from Darby, Corvallis, Hamilton, and Stevensville. At the end of the day, Corvallis took frst with 207 points, followed by Stevensville in second with 139.5 points, Hamilton in third with 100 points, and Darby fnished 9th with 24 points.

Corvallis takes frst in Glyn Brawley Classic

For Florence Head Coach Skip Rosenthal, the event is unique in a variety of ways. He said, “Te ‘Root is really a special event. In addition to bragging rights, it is one of the rare opportunities Florence gets a chance to wrestle against the other Bitterroot Valley teams since Florence is B/C and Hamilton, Corvallis, and Stevensville are A. It is also the only time where it is just our local teams. Many of our families know each other, have battled in earlier generations, and actually get a chance to connect at this event.” Rosenthal said the event began about 10 years ago, at the direction of the valley coaches.

to the line and sending a wave of hope to the Darby sideline. Her made basket was thwarted by a line violation, bringing the score to 45-45, Pirate ball.

For Corvallis, Sean Davis took frst place in the 126 weight class. Seth Allen took frst in the 132 weight class. Jason Davis won frst in the 145 weight class. Nate Davis earned frst

by Thomas Spencer

Strong backcourt pressure from the Tigers forced a bad pass right into the hands of Sierra Reed who promptly dribbled down for the basket, fnally claiming the lead for the Lady Tigers. But not for long.

Snyder placed fourth in the 182 weight class. Emmett Allsop placed fourth in the 138 weight class.

placed third in the 113 weight class.

place in the 152 weight class. Jonny Williams took frst in the 160 weight class. Bodee Davis earned frst in the 170 weight class. Kiera Davis placed second in the 103 weight class, while Luke Nuttall earned second place in the 126 weight class. Bryce Weidow placed second in the 205 weight class. Ted Melott placed third in the 138 weight class. Lloyd Augustine placed fourth in the 152 weight class. Chase Davis placed fourth in the 103 weight class. Sam Melott placed fourth in the 120 weight class. Bryson Jessop placed fourth in the 126 weight class. Colton

Hamilton was led by Derrick Saltzman, who won frst place in the 205 weight class. Adam Loveless placed second in the 145 weight class. Aidan Toniazzo and Carter Morgan both earned second and third place fnishes in the 170 weight class, respectively. Caleb Root earned second place in the 285 weight class. Clayton Beall placed third in the 182 weight class. Trevor Lewis earned a third place in the 205 weight class, and Cameron Beall

Stevensville’s Gunnar Larson claimed frst place in the 138 weight class, and Zachary Sannar took frst in the 285 weight class. Todd Whitescarver earned second place in the 113 weight class. Elliott Darnall took second in the 152 weight class, and Jefery Berryman earned second place in the 160 weight class. William Chiavarini placed third in the 132 weight class. Matthew Liedtka placed third in the 145 weight class.

Darby boys prevail against Pirates

Darby’s Mark Sandoval placed third in the 103 weight class.

Basketball Roundup

Hamilton

In their 13C rematch from earlier this year, the Darby boys were eager to fend of the Victor Pirates. Besides a slow frst quarter where the Tigers trailed by 4, the rest of the game was really just a slow march to victory.

The Hamilton boys went 3-0 last week. On Tuesday, December 13th, they defeated Polson, 65-58. On Friday, they traveled to Lockwood and won, 38-35, in a close contest.

Te 2021-2022 season has apparently been somewhat of a rekindling of the wrestling community in Florence. “As far as the Florence team’s performance, I couldn’t be more pleased,” said Rosenthal. “We’re in a bit of a rebuilding year with a new coaching staf and a renewed commitment to wrestling from the Florence School Administration and School Board. We will have a school-sponsored Middle School Program beginning this year and will be moving into our new dedicated Wrestling Room in the next couple of weeks. Te future of wrestling in Florence is looking bright.”

Te Florence athletes won several matches on the day. Seth Wilson pinned Connor Jessop of Corvallis, Aidyn Meinzen pinned Bodee Davis of Corvallis, Sean Larson, at 170, pinned Carter Morgan and Noah Guisinger of Hamilton, Lance Burrows, at 182 pinned Issac Martinez of Hamilton. At 205, Luke Maki won his match, and Dallas

Jonny

“Josh

Cole Dickemore had a strong game, scoring 17 points.

Rosenthal, refecting on his athletes’ performance this season, said, “Our kids have been working hard, are in great shape, focused, and having fun. We may

Darby head coach Krystal Smith said, “Ball movement, defense, and hustle are what helped us pull the win against Victor.” This seemed to be a good representation of Darby’s success against the Pirates. The Tigers did a good job of being patient in their ofensive movements and took high percentage shots at the basket.

defeated Two Eagle River, 44-31, on Thursday, December 15th. Virginia Brown led with 12 points, Tia Allred had 7, and Sadie Allred and Kyla Tacker each added 6. Then on Saturday they ran into a tough Seeley-Swan team and fell, 1065.

Tat match was important for the Blue Devil victory on the day. Te Falcon wrestlers are mostly in the upper-weight classes and dominated in those areas, whereas the Blue Devils won many of the matches in the lower weight classes which ultimately led them to 99 points and frst place.

Asher Magness added 7 points in the win. On Saturday, the Broncs faced of against Hardin and dominated in a 71-48 victory. Asher Magness led the way with 17 points, while Cole Dickemore had 12, and Tyler Jette added 8. Hamilton is now 5-0 on the season.

The Victor boys played Seeley-Swan on Saturday, December 17th and lost, 38-60. Jordan McClane and Landon Nuttall each had 9 points and Roan Jackson and Russell Drewien added 7 each.

Florence excels at Buzz Lucey Tourney

Stevi plays Florence on Senior Night

by Thomas Spencer

When asked what their week of practice looked like leading up to this matchup and what they anticipated, Coach Smith said, “We always know that a rival game can go any way, so our biggest advice was to keep our head in the game, play our game and hustle and work together and they defnitely worked together! And with a little press the whole game we wanted to slow them down and try taking advantage of a few mistakes.”

On Tursday night the Lady Yellowjackets and community celebrated their seniors from the girls basketball team, cheer, and other extracurricular activities. And although the Lady Jackets did not walk away with a win against Florence, they competed against a strong, well coached team and the atmosphere of the night remained positive and cheerful. Te three seniors on the basketball team that were recognized on the night were Hailey Tomas, Kelti Wandler, and Faith Huenergardt.

Stevensville

in

Darby

“Until

by Thomas Spencer

The Hamilton girls went 2-1 last week. On Tuesday, December 13th, they defeated Polson, 51-39. Layne Kearns led the way with 23 points, Lavana Wetzel added 9, and Ayda Grifn had 8. On Friday, Hamilton defeated Lockwood, 6250. Layne Kearns led the way with 23, Taryn Searle had 16, and Taylor McCarthy added 9. In the game, Kearns scored the 1000th point of her high school career. On Saturday, Hamilton played a solid Hardin squad who fnished 3rd at the state tournament last year. Hamilton kept it close, but fell short, 46-54. Taryn Searle led with 17 points, Kearns added 10, and Lexi Brenneman had 7.

The Fighting Yellowjackets took on the Broncs of Frenchtown on Saturday in Stevensville. The Yellowjackets came out really strong in the frst quarter, beating some tough defensive pressure numerous times and capitalizing on strong drives to the basket and open looks from the foor. The frst quarter ended 13-14 Frenchtown where Kellan Beller had 8 in that quarter and was absolutely everywhere. Beller worked strongly defensively and

has the greatest sense of humor and quick wit, which brings a lot of levity to the team, whether during practices, team meetings or games. Kelti is otherwise a quiet person, who brings a competitive fre to games that is so fun to watch.”

The Stevensville girls went to Frenchtown on Tuesday, December 13th and lost, 38-71. Claire Hutchison led with 18 points, Shilo McLain Lampi had 6, and Dawsyn Brewer added 4. Then on Wednesday they lost a close game to Missoula Loyola, 52-55. The Lady ‘Jackets started the 4th quarter with a 40-33 lead, but were outscored 12-22 in the fourth quarter. Cambree Praast led with 19 points, while Lampi added 10.

Stevensville head coach Bill Fulbright, speaking to his experience coaching Hailey Tomas, commented, “I have been privileged to coach Hailey for the past four years. Hailey is one of the toughest young ladies, mentally and physically, you will ever meet, and yet is so compassionate toward everybody around her. She plays her heart out every time she is on the court.

The Stevensville boys lost to Missoula Loyola, 30-70, on December 14th.

Finally, speaking to his time with Faith Huenergardt, Fulbright remarked, “Faith has played with our Froshmore team in our program since she was a freshman.

Florence On Thursday,

Faith has a wonderfully cheerful, upbeat attitude about everything, and doesn’t let anything get her

December 15th, the Florence boys defeated Deer Lodge, 66-56. They had a 56-36 lead after three quarters, and held on for the victory. Jesse Padilla led the way with 18 points, Brodie Hinsdale had 13, and Caleb Brossman added 12.

The Florence girls defeated Deer Lodge, 55-28, on Thursday, December 15th. On Saturday they lost to Class A Columbia Falls, 40-52.

Corvallis

On Thursday, December 15th, the Corvallis boys lost to a tough Dillon team, 45-68. The Blue Devils fell behind to 24-45 at halftime and were unable to make a come-

back. Tyler Weis and Lief Jessop each had 8 points. Corvallis rebounded on Friday and dominated Whitefsh, winning 77-56. Aaron Powell had a huge game scoring 26 points and making 5 steals. Lief Jessop had 11 points and 7 rebounds, Derek Criddle had 12 points and 6 rebounds, and Ryan Hutchinson had 10 points, 5 assists and 4 steals.

The Corvallis girls played Dillon on Thursday and lost, 21-64, and on Friday they lost to Whitefsh, 27-49. In the Whitefsh game, Tylin Sorensen led the way with 13 points and Ava Loran added 5.

and play in the varsity game. You saw the players and fans go berserk when Faith almost scored in the frst minute of the varsity game!”

in the fourth and responded with 9 of their own including 5 from Tad Tackes in that quarter. Beller accounted for 14, Tackes, 9, Travino, 5, and Grazzani had 4 on the night.

quit,

The Florence wrestling team excelled in the Buzz Lucey tournament in Eureka on Saturday, December 17th, which featured 11 total teams. The Florence boys’ and girls’ teams both took 2nd place overall.

the two teams only separated by 4 and the Falcons also managed to keep that lead in the fourth as well but only outscoring the Yellowjackets by 2 in that quarter. Te fnal score was 61-43, Florence.

I couldn’t ask for a player

The Darby Boys played Salmon on Friday, December 16th and lost a close game, 52-57. Hooper Reed scored a team-high 16 points, Cullen Duggan had 13, and Devyn Hundley added 11. On Saturday the Tigers lost to Drummond 41-55. Once again, Reed led the way with 16 points and Hundley added 10.

Both teams came out fast and strong in the frst quarter, not really giving much up on defense for either team but Stevi managed to come out ahead 10-7 going into the second quarter. But, like she has done many times this season, Florence’s Kasidy Yeoman went of in the second quarter with 11 of the Falcons 27 to end the second half.

This Saturday also happened to be Senior Night for the young Stevi squad and in a sea of junior boys, Lorenzo Grazzani stood out as the team’s only senior.

The Darby girls also played Salmon on Friday and also lost a close contest, 40-45. Darby’s Georgia Fisher led the team with 13 points, Makena Hawkinson had 11, and Sierra Reed added 6. On Saturday they faced a tough Drummond team and lost, 17-50. Sierra Reed led Darby with 11 points.

Te Jackets were carried by their Captain, junior Clair Hutchinson, who had an outstanding night.

Stevi boys drop one to Frenchtown

When asked later what he liked about his experience, Grazzani said, “My favorite aspect about being an exchange student is to experience a new type of life and culture with new people and have the opportunity to play basketball at a higher level than before.”

For the Florence Falcon boys, Adyn Meinzen had an impressive outing, fnishing in frst place in the 152 weight class. Dallas Blair fnished second in the 205 weight class. Max Rosenthal placed third in the 103 weight class. Jon Post placed third in the 120 weight class. Seth Wilson also earned a third place fnish in the 138 weight class. Jett Murray placed third in the 170 weight class. Arie McLaughlin fnished third in the 285 weight class. Isaac Nicoson fnished fourth in the 113 weight class.

“Claire had a real good game, turning hard work on defense into steals and fast breaks on offense,” said Fulbright. Hutchinson had 21 on the night, scoring mostly in transition but she was also efective pulling up from the mid and three-point range as well. But the Lady Jackets are most efective in the more runand-gun style of play.

“Tey only missed two shots in the 2nd quarter alone,” Fulbright said. Tat quarter proved to be the defning moment of the game.

an

Te third quarter

On the girls’ side, Neveah Speer took frst place in the 120 division, Hailey Sutton earned a frst place fnish in the 152 weight class, and Malorey Lawrence placed third in the 126 class.

“Getting the ball up the foor quickly and without a lot of wasted dribbling is something we have been working on all year,” said Fulbright. “It’s gratifying to see the progress the girls have made this year, and to see it work efectively during parts of the game.”

“I’ve played basketball in Italy for fve years,” said Grazzani. “This is my sixth year in a club, because in my country school and sports are separate programs.” Grazzani usually exhibits a positive attitude and it wasn’t surprising to hear his response when asked what he liked most about his team and experience thus far. “I love how we support each other on our team. Our coaches are trying to make us compete and get better every

not win every match, but our kids are here to compete and always looking to improve.”

mark at Divisionals and State. All of our kids did quite well and showed what it

means to be ‘Falcon Tough.’” Rosenthal, who has been instrumental in the Florence wrestling world for some time, in both the high school and Little Guy programs, is grateful for his coaching

Schreoder and I have been working together for several years with the Little Guy program,” said Rosenthal. “Tis year, however, we have Cody Sutton and Kody Davidson, two former Falcon wrestlers that have brought some ‘old school Falcon Toughness’ to the mix and have

we’ve been able to achieve this

opponents. Kanyon Stoker at 145, pinned Drew Carmody of Hamilton. Bodee Davis pinned Jefrey Berryman of Stevi. And

Williams pinned Jett Murray of Florence in 1:57. For Coach Davis, “Luke Nuttal at 113 beating John Post that was a huge one. Tat match I fgured could go either way.”

momentum, the Lady Tigers marched

This certainly was a big win for the Lady Tigers who will likely see the Lady Pirates in the District Tournament. And if you are a

and was followed by Mustafa who had

The Tiger ofense did execute and took advantage of each mistake of the night. They had four guys score over 10 points on the night, notably

had a great fourth quarter, outscoring the Pirates 28-13. Townsend and Smith both had stellar 4th quarters, each posting 8 and Reed had 6 in that quarter.

the game is over, my only thoughts are to keep putting the ball

the basket, hustle back, play hard defense, and outwork the opponent,” said Smith. “This group of boys never

so if we are behind or ahead, it’s not over until the buzzer rings.”

Lady Pirate Bella Schicilone defends Darby’s Makena Hawkinson. Photo by Thomas Spencer.

Darby’s Preston Smith scans Caleb Rockwood and the Pirate defense. Photo by Thomas

Grazzani,

Corvallis took frst place in the Battle of the ‘Root. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography.

Scott Sacry

The Corvallis wrestling team showing of their hardware from the Glyn Brawley Classic. The tournament took place in Corvallis on Saturday, December 17th. Corvallis fnished 1st in the 10-team tournament.

Victor The Victor girls

Hamilton’s senior Layne Kearns, shown here signing her letter of intent to play basketball at Seattle Pacifc University, scored the 1000th point of her high school career at Lockwood on Friday, December 16th.

Gas prices well below last year at this time

Average gasoline prices in Montana have fallen 15.4 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.01/g on Monday, according to GasBuddy’s survey of 615 stations in Montana. Prices in Montana are 73.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago and stand 35.7 cents per gallon lower than a year ago. The national average price of diesel has fallen 14.1 cents in the last week and stands at $4.77 per gallon.

According to GasBuddy price reports, the lowest price in the state on Sunday was $2.75/g while the highest was $3.49/g, a diference of 74.0 cents per gallon.

The national average price of gasoline has fallen 11.9 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $3.09/g on Monday. The national average is down 57.1 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands 20.0 cents per gallon lower

than a year ago, according to GasBuddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.

Historical gasoline prices in Montana and the national average going back ten years: December 19, 2021: $3.37/g (U.S. Average: $3.29/g)

December 19, 2020: $2.22/g (U.S. Average: $2.22/g)

December 19, 2019: $2.61/g (U.S. Average: $2.56/g)

December 19, 2018: $2.56/g (U.S. Average: $2.37/g)

December 19, 2017: $2.58/g (U.S. Average: $2.42/g)

December 19, 2016: $2.17/g (U.S. Average: $2.25/g)

December 19, 2015: $2.09/g (U.S. Average: $2.00/g)

December 19, 2014: $2.47/g (U.S. Average: $2.44/g)

December 19, 2013: $2.99/g (U.S. Average: $3.20/g)

December 19, 2012: $3.20/g (U.S. Average: $3.22/g)

Neighboring areas and their current gas prices: Idaho- $3.61/g, down 13.8 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.75/g. Billings- $2.99/g, down 17.1 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.16/g. Wyoming- $2.98/g, down 5.2 cents per gallon from last week’s $3.03/g.

“The national average for a gallon of gasoline is down nearly $2 compared to six months ago, and heading into Christmas travel week, is at its lowest in a year and a half, saving Americans some $750 million every day,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy.

“While the decline should take the national average under $3 per gallon in the next week or so, it is soon likely to fade as oil prices have held in the $70 per barrel range. But while the declines for gasoline may fade, diesel prices still have considerable ground to cover, and could fall another 50 cents or more in the weeks ahead.

Fuel prices across the board have been plunging back into territory more Americans feel is normal, which could certainly boost economic sentiment going forward.”

GasBuddy’s survey updates 288 times every day from the most diverse list of sources covering nearly 150,000 stations nationwide, the most comprehensive and up-to-date in the country. GasBuddy data is accessible at http:// prices.GasBuddy.com.

‘Journey Through Grief’ series scheduled

The death of a loved one is one of the most difcult experiences we face in life. Everyone is invited to come share your grief journey, learn helpful ways to cope and care for yourself, and honor your loved one.

Journey Through Grief series will run Tuesdays, January 3rd through March 28th at 2:30 p.m. at St. Francis of Assisi Pastoral Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton.

• Griefshare is a faithbased series of 13 weekly sessions that cover many topics helpful to your journey through the hurt of loss and grief. Come to all or some.

• Each session includes a DVD video featuring interviews with grief recovery experts and real-life stories of people who have experienced the death of a loved one – recently or long ago; after a long illness or after a sudden loss.

• Following each video, small group discussion gives you the opportunity to hear from others who have experienced loss as well as to share

the challenges, questions, and concerns you may encounter in your grief journey.

• We will explore dealing with guilt, anger, people who don’t understand your grief, tips for preparing for holidays and special dates, caring for yourself, honoring your loved one, and much more.

• During the week, you can continue your own personal study through the refections in your workbook.

Key topics covered in the sessions include:

1. Is This Normal? You’ll discover why your grief experience is harder than you imagined; why the intensity and duration of your emotions are normal. Despite how you feel right now, there is hope.

2. Challenges of Grief Why your pain is so overwhelming; some common efects grief has on mind, body & spirit; how to get things done when you don’t feel like you have any energy

3. The Journey of Grief – Part 1 How long the grief journey of grief lasts; dealing

with those who try to rush your grief

4. The Journey of Grief –Part 2 Why it’s important to put efort into your healing. How the events surrounding your loved one’s death afect your grief. The best ways to deal with your loved one’s belongings

5. Grief and Your Relationships How the death of a loved one afects your friendships. How solitude can be a blessing and a curse; how to deal with friends who don’t understand

6. Why? Discuss where God is in your grief. Sharing your feelings with Him as an expression of faith.

7. Guilt and Anger - How to deal with false guilt, conficted relationships and how to handle grief-related anger

8. Complicating Factors – How your thinking afects your emotions and healing. How traumatic experiences afect grief and how to deal with nightmares and fashbacks

9. Stuck - Common

misconceptions that hinder healing and how to prevent getting stuck in grief. Why your path to healing isn’t always smooth

10. Lessons of Grief – Part 1 Why grief is so painful; why going to church can be difcult; benefts of helping others

11. Lessons of Grief – Part 2 Why no one grieves ‘perfectly.’ What grief teaches you about relationships. This session provides a more complete picture of who you are now that your loved one is gone

12. Heaven – Discuss questions about heaven and the afterlife; neardeath experiences; and more 13. What Do I Live for Now? Why moving forward is a nec-

essary process; why peace and pain will always coexist RSVP at stfrancishwm@ gmail.com

Sponsored by St. Francis of Assisi Caring Hearts Ministry and facilitated by Jonathan Sardella, Chaplain, Home Health & Hospice of Montana. Sessions will use the Griefshare.org program ($20 donation for workbook) Call 406.363.1385 for more information, email: mail@stfrancishamilton.org or visit www.StFrancisHamilton.org

Stevi Junction Plaza (by Verizon Wireless) U.S. Highway 93 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Mon.-Fri.

More avian fu cases confrmed in Montana

Avian infuenza is an infectious

waterfowl

shed virus in the feces, saliva, and respiratory secretions. Domestic poultry become infected through direct contact with wild birds, or through contact with contaminated objects, equipment, or the environment.

“HPAI has impacted over 80,000 domestic birds in Montana.” stated Martin Zaluski, Montana State Veterinarian “The impacts of this year’s disease outbreak are substantial.”

Infected or sick birds can exhibit numerous signs such as swollen eyes, discolored comb and legs, a signifcant drop in egg production, or decrease in water and feed consumption. However, the most common sign has been sudden death of multiple birds within a fock. This has been the case in Montana where afected focks

BUrnt Fork Vet Holiday Schedule

BUrnt Fork Vet Holiday Schedule

CHRISTMAS

CHRISTMAS HOURS

CHRISTMAS HOURS

Closed Friday December 24th and Saturday December 25th

• Closed Saturday December 24 and Monday December 26

Closed Friday December 24th and Saturday December 25th

The

NEW YEAR HOURS

Closed Saturday January 1st

Closed Friday December 24th and Saturday December 25th

NEW YEAR HOURS

NEW YEAR HOURS

NEW YEAR HOURS

Closed Saturday January 1st

• Closed Saturday December 31

Closed Saturday January 1st

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 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 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 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!

CHRISTMAS HOURS 3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com

3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com

A fy fsher’s Christmas wish

“Are you done with your column?” Jan asked over dinner. The evening was still young, and after some would-be Christmas disappointments on network television there had been talk of delving into our collection of Christmas videos.

“No,” I answered.

“Have you started it?”

“No. Writer’s block.”

She suggested some ideas I could possibly run with. I nodded my head slowly: no.

littlest hands carefully held the baby Jesus, and Mary and Joseph were slowly and quietly put in place by the next sets of hands.

That crystal nativity set, clear and glistening figures of Mary and Joseph about a foot tall surrounding a smaller creche, was a gift from loving friends who understood that we would never invest in such a treasure for ourselves. There was a special kind of love – call it the spirit of Christmas - in their giving.

Chuck Stranahan

“I could write, right now, but not about fly fishing. It’d be forced, flat, and stale.”

She knows that I don’t write my column to simply grind out words; I want the words to have value for my readers.

“What do you want to write about?” she asked.

“Family.” The word struck me deeply. I had to pause and gathered myself.

“This.” I said.

I gestured toward a crystal nativity set on our table, the only visible Christmas display in our home.

For Jan and me this year, it is enough. More than enough.

For now, we’ll forego assembling the faux evergreen, stringing lights, hanging ornaments and decorating the porch.

Inside the house the surrounding warmth of some of the world’s most beautiful choral music, sung by choirs that sound almost angelic, uplifts our spirits beyond what the glitter of tinsel and colored lights that remain packed away ever could.

We’re not in any sort of a bah-humbug mood; and if we were expecting another visit from the

grandkids we might unpack it all and put it up – for them.

This Christmas is different. Maybe it’s the gravity of the world we see on the nightly news, the reality of an out-of-control an economy that devastates people we love, war and rumors of war.

Somehow it all brings us closer to the reality of what we’re celebrating in our hearts: the birth of a sweet baby boy in a Middle Eastern stable dangerously crowded with animals and the filth of their inevitable droppings some 2,000 years ago, and that out of such an unlikely – you’d have to call it miraculous – beginning, the world since would find hope.

The grandkids have come and gone.

They greeted us with big grins and warm hugs. The little ones helped Grandma Jan (or more accurately, she helped them) decorate Christmas cookies while the rest of us attended the Community Chorus’ 50th Christmas Concert. Jan didn’t miss out – she and I attended the night before.

After the concert the whole crew, eight of us, settled in for the meal Jan had started the day before.

I remember a time in America

when we used to recognize and talk freely about the Christmas spirit. Some years you could really feel it; other years not so much.

This year it seems that the spirit of Christmas has been consumed by the spirit of consumerism and the forces (I won’t name them) that war against the love, and good, and innocence, and true meaning of peace that Christmas brings to our world.

It is still there, but you have to go looking for it.

It was certainly there in both performances of the Community Chorus Concerts.

It was certainly there when Jan told the family gathered silently around her dinner table how blessed she was to have them in her life. She spoke for both of us - or all of us.

Before they left I asked the youngest kids to take the pieces of the crystal nativity set and place them on our dining room table. The

It is there for us, when we give freely of ourselves, out of love. It is there and we can sense its presence, overwhelming at times, when we do such things as look up from a July evening caddisfly hatch to see the grandeur of the Bitterroot range silhouetted against a magnificent sunset in the stillness of a moment that seems to reach into eternity.

My wish, if you can call it that, for you this season is that this same spirit, whether it comes to you in Christmas or July, touches you, and fills you with joy and peace.

HOME FOR SALE

4 bdrm, 2 bath, 2 car garage, manafactured home on 1 acre in Victor MT. Home is on a well. Has septic & propane for heat, also freplace. Big deck of the back of the house nestled in the trees. This home was my parents’ house. Asking $469,000. Showing on the weekends only by appointment. Call 406-871-4293, ask for Martin.

CUSTODIAN I - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana. edu/postings/32838. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

IRRIGATION TECHNICIAN - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/27815 Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/ Disabled

JOURNEYMAN ELECTRICIAN - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITYBOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Montana State University Employment Opportunities | Electrician, Journeyman . Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

LABORER/EQUIP OPERATOR I - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITYBOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and

application procedures, click on: Montana State University Employment Opportunities | Laborer **Updated Salary**. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

GROUNDSKEEPER II OR III - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/30326. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/ Disabled

MAIL CLERK/CARRIER I - FACILITIES SERVICES/ MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/30400. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

MAINTENANCE PAINTER - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/30461. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/ Disabled

JOURNEYMAN CARPENTER - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITYBOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana. edu/postings/30789. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

LOCKSMITH - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana. edu/postings/31185. Equal

Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

HVAC MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN – AIR CONDITIONING/REFRIGERATION. Facilities Services/ Montana State University - Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana. edu/postings/31898. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

FACILITIES ENGINEER

- FACILITIES SERVICES/ MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/32010.

Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

PREVENTIVE MAINTENANCE MANAGER

- FACILITIES SERVICES/ MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/32290.

Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

PROJECT ARCHITECT

- FACILITIES SERVICES/ MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/33010.

Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

INTERIOR DESIGNER

- FACILITIES SERVICES/ MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement

and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/33016.

Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

CONTRACT SPECIALIST - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/33123. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/ Disabled

HVAC TECHNICIAN (HEATING/VENTILATION) - FACILITIES SERVICES/ MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/33151. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled.

OPERATOR–IN-TRAINING - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/33303. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/ Disabled.

CUSTODIAN SUPERVISOR I - FACILITIES SERVICES/MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY - BOZEMAN. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: Montana State University Employment Opportunities | Custodial Supervisor I. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disable.

Use Happy Jack® Seal N Heal® on dogs, cats & horses to close wounds with a bitter taste. Allow healing. At Tractor Supply® (www.feabeacon.com)

WANTED: OLD CLOTHES. Ladies and Men’s. Paying cash.

SNOW SHOVELING AND SNOW PLOWING. 406-207-1793.

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, Survivor Benefts, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus ofer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-866-585-6456.

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Legals

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County

In the Matter of the Name Change of Shaun Tobey Clifton-Barnes, Shaun Tobey Clifton-Barnes, Petitioner Cause No.: DV-22-428 Dept. No.: 1

NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Shaun Tobey Clifton-Barnes to Shaun Steven Clifton.

The hearing will be on January 4, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 23rd day of November, 2022.

Paige Trautwein Clerk of Court

BY: Catherine di Gleria Deputy Clerk of Court BS 11-30, 12-7, 12-14, 12-21-22.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY

In the Matter of the Estate of Dorothy E. Parpolia, Deceased.

Case No.: DP-22-130 Dept. No. 2

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 Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or

said claims will be forever barred.

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

DATED this 1st day of December 2022.

/s/ Carla J. Hanson, Personal Representative BS 12-7, 12-14, 12-2122.

Emily F. Wilmott Ferguson and Coppes, PLLC

A Natural Resource Law Firm PO Box 8359 Missoula, MT 59807 Phone: (406) 532 - 2664

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF Nanci J. Agee, Deceased. Case No.: DP-22-113 Dept. No. 2

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

Claims must either be mailed to Stephen Lilburn, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, c/o Ferguson and Coppes, PLLC, PO Box 8359, Missoula, MT 59807, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 12th day of December 2022.

/s/ Stephen Lilburn, Personal Representative c/o Emily F. Wilmott Ferguson and Coppes, PLLC A Natural Resource Law Firm PO Box 8359 Missoula, MT 59807 BS 12-14, 12-21, 1228-22.

Craig Mungas State Bar No. 6746 Bjornson Jones Mungas, PLLC 2809 Great Northern Loop, Ste 100 Missoula, Montana 59808

Telephone: 406-7218896 Telefax: 406-541-8037 Email: craig@bjornsonlaw.com

Attorneys for Jan Burgess, Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JASPER P. BURGESS, Deceased. Dept. No.: 2 Cause No.: DP-22-133 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 decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to JAN BURGESS, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Bjornson Jones Mungas, PLLC, 2809 Great

Northern Loop, Suite 100, Missoula, MT 59808, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 9th day of December, 2022.

/s/ Jan Burgess Jan Burgess, Personal Representative Bjornson Jones Mungas, PLLC

By: Craig Mungas Craig Mungas

Attorneys for Jan Burgess, Personal Representative BS 12-14, 12-21, 1228-21.

Aaron J. Tolson (#7252) TOLSON & WAYMENT, PLLC 1906 Jennie Lee Drive Idaho Falls, ID 83404 Ph: (208) 228-5221 Fax: (208) 228-5200 ajt@aaronjtolsonlaw.com Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorneys for Applicant MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY

IN RE THE ESTATE OF JIMMY DAVID MCDONALD, Deceased Case No.: DP-41-202244-II

NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Grayson James McDonald has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named Estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to Aaron J. Tolson, Attorney for the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at 1906 Jennie Lee Drive, Idaho Falls, ID 83404, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 7th day of December 2022.

/s/ Aaron J. Tolson Attorney at Law 1906 Jennie Lee Drive Idaho Falls, ID 83404 BS 12-14, 12-21, 1228-22.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RICKY LYNN KUHNHENN, Deceased Case No.: DP-22-121 Dept. No. 2 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 Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever

barred.

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

DATED this 2nd day of December 2022.

/s/ Zackary L. Kuhnhenn, Personal Representative BS 12-14, 12-21, 1228-22.

NOTICE OF RFQ

The Town of Stevensville is currently advertising for the following request for qualifcations, Town Prosecutor for the Town of Stevensville.

Interested attorneys can fnd additional information about the RFQ on the Town of Stevensville website at: https://www.townofstevensville.com/rfps Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 12-14, 12-21-22.

MONTANA WATER COURT NOTICE TO WATER USERS CONFEDERATED SALISH AND KOOTENAI TRIBES –MONTANA – UNITED STATES COMPACT WC0001-C-2021

The Montana Water Court has extended the deadline for fling Objections to the Compact Preliminary Decree to February 9, 2023. Order and Objection Form are available at https:// courts.mt.gov/Courts/Water/ Notices-Info/PublicNotices. If you have questions, please call the Montana Water Court at 1-800-624-3270 or 1-406-586-4364 or email watercourt@mt.gov. BS 12-21-22.

David T. Markette Megan S. Winderl MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C. 601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110

DavidM@mcpcattorneys.com Attorneys for Plaintifs MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY

STEVE MORTON, SUCCESSOR TRUSTEE OF THE MORTON-MENEZES FAMILY TRUST, Plaintif, vs WASHINGTON MUTUAL BANK, THE ESTATE OF ROY E. ELMORE, MARGARET J. ELMORE, and COLLECTION BUREAU SERVICES, INC., and ALL PERSONS, KNOWN OR UNKNOWN CLAIMING OR WHO MIGHT CLAIM ANY RIGHT, TITLE, ESTATE, OR INTEREST IN OR LIEN OR ENCUMBRANCE UPON, THE REAL PROPERTY DESCRIBED IN THE COMPLAINT ADVERSE TO PLAINTIFFS’ TITLE THERETO, WHETHER SUCH CLAIM BE PRESENT OR CONTINGENT, Defendants.

Cause No. DV-41-2022-

0000378

Dept. No. 1 SUMMONS

THE STATE OF MONTANA SENDS GREETINGS TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT, All persons known or unknown claiming or who might claim any right, title, estate or interest in or lien or encumbrance upon, the real property described in the complaint adverse to Plaintifs’ title thereto, whether such claim be present or contingent:

You are hereby summoned to respond to the complaint in this action which is fled in the ofce of the Clerk of this Court, a copy of which is herewith served upon you, and to fle your response and serve a copy thereof upon the Plaintif’s attorney within ten (10) days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to respond, decree will be taken against you by default for the arrangement requested in the Complaint.

This suit is being brought to quiet title to land situated in Ravallii County, Montana, and described as follows:

Lot 17A, Amended Plat No. 786, being a portion of Lot 17, Block 5, Sunnyside Orchards, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the recorded plat thereof.

Dated: December 14, 2022

Paige Trautwein Clerk of Court

By: Catherine di Gleria Deputy Clerk BS 12-21, 12-28-22, 1-4-23.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HARVEY HAYWARD HILL, Deceased Case No.: DP-22-134

Dept. No. 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 Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

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

DATED this 12th day of December 2022.

/s/ Carrie Kitzberger, Personal Representative BS 12-21, 12-28-22, 1-4-23.

birds within a fock. This has been the case in Montana where afected focks have experienced high death loss.

Infected focks are placed under quarantine and any remaining birds on the premises are required to be depopulated to prevent further disease spread. Flock owners are eligible to receive indemnity on depopulated birds from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). In addition to restrictions on the afected fock, the Department will conduct disease surveillance of poultry premises within 6 miles (10 km) of the afected premises. Surveillance includes contact with premises to inquire about any sick birds and weekly sampling for premises that may sell poultry or poultry products.

Due to ongoing detections, the department has reinstated guidance regarding housing birds indoors, including birds enrolled in certifed organic programs, and continues to emphasize the importance of biosecurity. Certifed organic producers should contact their certifer before moving birds indoors to ensure program compliance.

Biosecurity measures to protect focks include:

• Prevent contact between wild or migratory birds and domestic poultry, including access by wild birds to feed and water sources.

• House birds indoors to the extent possible to limit exposure to wild or migratory birds.

• Limit visitor access to areas where birds are housed.

• Use dedicated clothing and protective footwear when caring for domestic poultry.

• Immediately isolate sick animals and contact your veterinarian or MDOL.

The department encourages all poultry producers to immediately report sudden onset of illness or high death loss in domestic poultry to their veterinarian or the department at (406/444-2976). If you fnd sick or dead wild birds that have died from unknown causes, contact your local FWP Warden, Biologist or Regional ofce, or call the FWP wildlife veterinarian (406/577-7880).

fuels to the point that fre behavior changed, leading to “unnaturally large and intense wildfres.”

Getting back to a historic fre regime can be achieved through proper management, according to the Collaborative. They advocate the use of mechanical thinning, fuel reduction, and prescribed burning to reduce the extent of damages caused to natural resources by catastrophic wildfre; increase the efectiveness of suppression actions; improve forest health, wildlife habitat, and ecosystem function; and reduce the risk to fre fghters and private landowners in the Wildland Urban Interface “through integrated cross boundary project planning and implementation.”

The management recommendations in the Collaborative’s statement are heavy on planning and wildfre preparedness and the need to integrate actions between private landowners, fre districts, county, state, and federal governments.

“A current updated Community Wildfre Protection Plan (CWPP) is vital to identify priority management and funding needs,” according to the position paper. “Careful consideration, planning, and prioritizing is required to strategically implement forest fuel treatments given the enormity of the current condition of our forests, potential efects of a changing climate and very limited funding.”

The Collaborative considers trans-

portation management in the WUI to enhance wildfre suppression, access and landowner safety important and advocates for the use of the Montana Forest Action Plan as “a valuable tool to identify priority areas for forest management.”

They believe all available management tools should be used to help minimize the risks to human life and property and enhance fre fghter safety within the WUI and that the forest should be managed “to limit high severity wildfres outside the range of natural variability to protect rare habitats and existing old growth stands, and restore the role of frequent low- to moderate- intensity fres in fre-dependent ecosystems.”

“Changing climate conditions will inevitably change our western forests in ways yet discovered. Therefore, managing our forests will require a considerable adaptive management approach intended to increase forest resilience and allow room for forest ecosystems to evolve with changing conditions. All treatments will require thorough and well-funded monitoring plans,” it states.

The group considers mechanical thinning and periodic prescribed burning the principle tools available to reduce forest fuels to restore historic fre regimes and stimulate healthy ecosystems, and advocates use of prescribed fre and mechanical thinning to reduce fuel loads in and

adjacent to old growth stands where appropriate.

The advisory group promotes a diverse mosaic within the ecosystem. They recommend that “overstocked forested communities within and adjacent to the WUI use mechanical thinning followed by prescribed burning to reduce fuel loads,” stating these treatments will be needed regularly to maintain fre resilience.

“In some wildlands, well beyond the WUI, allowing wildfres to burn naturally may be an appropriate response. Considerations may include tree species/forest types, old growth, fuel density, and protection of backcountry infrastructure,” it states.

While forest thinning and prescribed burning may help restore forest ecosystems and aid in wildfre suppression, it states, forest management projects in the WUI alone may not be sufcient to reduce high intensity, high severity wildfres and prevent damage to private property.

“Private landowners should consider fuels mitigation and maintain defensible spaces within their home ignition zones,” it states. “Managers should carefully consider the burned site potential to regenerate naturally. The loss of some forest stands is not always harmful as open areas and meadows may follow. Wildlife species and abundance naturally changes as their habitats change. A diverse and mosaic landscape of forest types and

associated ecosystems can strengthen wildlife populations and improve ecosystem function and diversity.”

Schmidt and Rusk emphasized that the collaborative was made up of a lot of people with diverse interests including a retired wildlife biologist, a retired realtor, a retired justice department ofcial from the Forest Service, a retired Forest Service District Ranger, a retired Forest Service recreation specialist, a logger, a county commissioner and a county planner.

Schmidt said that the commissioners’ intent and design in setting up the advisory board was to get representatives from diferent perspectives.

“We are not all of like mind, sometimes quite divergent,” said Schmidt.

Rusk said, “When you do that it requires more give and less take than a simple majority. In some cases a lot has been given but something big has also been gained. Consensus. We are willing to give enough to get some consensus.” He said that give and take is especially important in Ravalli County due to the wildlife threat and the need to do something rather than stop things from being done.

“We are trying to address this pivotal and timely issue by sparking a community discussion,” said Rusk. “Our orientation is to encourage more community dialogue about how we might use fre as a management tool.”

Comment period extended on draft grizzly bear management plan

New deadline is February 4

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is extending the public comment deadline on the draft grizzly bear management plan and associated draft environmental impact statement (EIS) to Feb. 4. The purpose of the draft plan and draft EIS is to guide the longterm management and conservation of grizzly bears across the state.

“We know the holidays are a busy time for people and their families,” FWP Director Hank Worsech said. “We want to make sure people have a chance to share their best ideas with us and so extending the comment period by 30 days will allow for that.”

FWP is required to provide 30 days for public comment on the draft EIS. However, the agency may extend the public comment period for up to an additional 30 days. This extension comes in response to multiple public requests for additional time to review the draft plan and draft EIS.

The draft grizzly bear management plan was informed by existing bear plans and conservation strategies, the federal recovery plan and the work of the Grizzly Bear Advisory Council, appointed under the previous admin-

istration in 2019.

The new plan would replace two existing plans – those for western Montana and for southwest Montana – with one statewide plan in which FWP commits to maintaining the long-term viability of grizzly bears while prioritizing human safety. The statewide plan will serve as a framework for the management of grizzly bears now and into the future.

Montana has petitioned the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to delist grizzly bears in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem and supports Wyoming’s petition to delist grizzly bears in the Greater Yellowstone ecosystem, where they have surpassed recovery goals. Other recovery areas in Montana include the Cabinet-Yaak and Bitterroot ecosystems.

The draft plan will guide management statewide, with particular focus on areas with documented grizzly bear presence, as well as in those places where they are expected to expand. The draft plan addresses how bears will be managed outside of federal recovery zones, including connectivity areas between the zones. The draft EIS addresses potential environmental impacts of implementing the plan.

To review the plan and comment, go online to https://fwp.mt.gov/ aboutfwp/public-comment-opportu-

nities/grizzly-bear-management-plan. To comment by mail, send to Wildlife Division, Grizzly Bear Plan and EIS, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620. Comments can also be emailed to fwpwld@mt.gov.

Once the comment period is concluded, FWP staf will review the comments, make adjustments to the draft plan and draft EIS as necessary, and then Director Worsech will issue a

record of decision, in accordance with the Montana Environmental Policy Act. The department will then present the plan to the Fish and Wildlife Commission for their review and potential endorsement.

For more information, including the draft plan, EIS, supporting documents and to comment online, please go to https://fwp.mt.gov/ aboutfwp/public-comment-op

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