Three Mile Community Center faced with parking lot problem
by Kristin Kruse
As you pull into the parking lot of the Three Mile Community Center northeast of Stevensville, you will most likely see people out enjoying Ambrose Creek Park, which surrounds the new facility that opened in 2022. There are paths for walking, playground equipment, a soccer and baseball field and a newly resurfaced tennis court, with the Bitterroot Mountain Range as a stunning backdrop. The park and the community center are both owned by the Lone Rock Park District and are managed by the Three Mile Community Senior Center, which is a non-profit organization that was formed in 2012. The organization is dedicated to serving the Lone Rock community; however, anyone is welcome to enjoy the facility. There is an offering of a multitude of activities such as community coffee every Monday, Wednesday and Friday morning from 7:308:30. There is also bingo every first and third Tues-
day of the month at 6:45 p.m. The building is available for events, private and public, and hosts three craft fairs a year. It is used for weddings, baby showers and recently a murder mystery dinner.
Joyce Pando serves as Chair on the board and explains a serious problem the Center is facing.
“Our parking lot is in desperate need of being re-graded and repaved,” said Pando. “During the winter it becomes a skating rink and when it rains it’s like a river.
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There is a real issue about safety and it is only a matter of time before someone gets hurt.”
According to Pando, the paving project costs are in the $100K range and the goal is to complete the project with no impact to taxpayers.
“So far we have raised $5K, which is a long way from our goal,” said Colleen Schmiedeke, secretary. “The park has been here for 25 years. It’s outdated and needs to be upgraded. We are hoping that community members will come forward and help. We are very flexible. We
are not just looking for cash donations, anyone who could donate time, machinery or materials would be very helpful.”
Keeping our community resources alive is a group effort. For many people the Center is a way to stay engaged and active, and safety issues such as this could prevent community members from attending functions and activities.
How can you help? There are several ways; reserve the center for your next party or function, make a cash donation, become a member or offer up your professional services to help with the project. To learn more about how to lend a hand, visit 3milecc.org or contact Colleen Schmiedeke at 406-5444994. Everything helps!
Victor Heritage Museum
S Blake Street, Victor • 642-3997
Thank you!
Heritage Museum
Thank you to all who supported our very successful 26th Annual Chocolate Tasting Party and Silent Auction Fundraiser, held on December 2, 2024.
Thank you to all who supported our successful 24th Annual Chocolate Tasting-Silent Auction Fundraiser, held on December 5. We extend our heartfelt gratitude and blessings to the following businesses and individuals who generously donated. We very much appreciate our faithful bidders/buyers. Very special thanks go to Farmers State Bank for sponsoring the event, including Out West Wagons horse-drawn wagon rides. Please forgive us if we have omitted anyone. We also wish to recognize and thank the Rapp Family Foundation for its very generous donation/gift given recently, in memory of Howard and Peg Rapp.
A Beautiful You Salon - Hamilton
Albertson’s - Hamilton
Alpenstuble – The Bretzel Factory
We extend our heartfelt gratitude and blessings to the following businesses and individuals who generously donate, as well as our “sweet” candy makers and volunteer helpers. We very much appreciate our faithful bidders/buyers. A very large thanks goes to Farmers State Bank for sponsoring the event, including Out West Wagons’ horse-drawn wagon or sled. A very special thanks is extended to the Bitter Root Band for providing Christmas Carols. Please forgive us if we have omitted anyone.
event too!
Cindy Pilon Clearwater Credit Union
from November 8th to November 29. busienss size ad with FULL COLOR.
Anne Englert
A Beautiful You, Hair Salon
Annie Bernauer
Albertsons (Hamilton)
Art Focus
Al’s Cycle
ASMUS Jewelers & Coins
Amon & Kathy
A Thaiger - Hamilton
Andy & Sara Roubik
Back Door Deli - Hamilton
Angie Dobberstein
Bell-McCall Co. Ford
Antique Seller
Bitterroot Beanery
ASMUS Jewelers
Bell McCall
Bitter Root Brewing
Bitterroot Drug
Bitter Root Brewing
Bitterroot Evergreens
Bitter Root Land Trust
Bitterroot Furniture
Bitterroot Drug
Bitter Root Land Trust
Bitterroot Evergreens
Bitter Root Laundry & Cleaners
Bitterroot Furniture
Bitterroot Performing Arts
Bitterroot Laundry/Cleaners
Bowers Grocery, Victor – Corvallis
Bitterroot Performing Arts Council
Brian Langton
Bitterroot Stoves
Bryan Jones – Jones Korman Ins.
Bitterroot Thrift
Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic
Bitterroot Valley Transmission
Carol Rowley
BJ’s Restaurant
Carolyn Eveleigh Car Quest - Corvallis
Brian Langton’s Carpentry Shop
Carol Schwan
Chapter One Book Store
Carolyn Everleigh
Cow Poke Ranch Supply
Frontier Café
Custom Saddles & Repairs - Victor Donna Thrailkill
Geri Johnson
Grooming by Denise
Hamilton Wine & Liquor
Hat Edit and Millinery
Hidden Legend Winery
Jennifer Miles
Joanna Barker
Joann Hosko
Joe’s Studio
Jolley Fine Art, Ryan Jolley
Julie Parsons
Karen Elmer
Kelly Price Pottery
KG Express - Kootenai Garage
Kitty Kat Jewelry - Kathy Meuchel
Les Schwab Harper’s BR Valley Tire Center
Richard & Anne Weber
Robbins Hallmark
Rocking L Alpacas
Rod’s Automotive
S & S Auto Body
Sharon & Mitch Huckeba and Debbie Brown
Shear Delight Dog Grooming
Stevensville Hardware
Super 1 (Hamilton)
Super 1 (Stevensville)
Suzanne Tout
Swanson’s Mountain View Orchard
Teresa Larsen
Terri Johansen
The Back Door Deli
The Boutique on Main – Stevensville
The Coffee Cup Cafe
The Montana Chocolate Co.
Lifeline Creamery and Farm Store
Lutzenhiser Jewelry
Mary Fox - Flying Pig Casino
The Paper Clip
The Shirt Spot
The Victor Station
Time After Time Bed and Breakfast
Tipi Rock Yoga & Massage
Christopher Weatherly, BITTERROOT WOODWRIGHT
Chapter One Book Store
Choice Ammunition
Christopher Weatherly – Montana Woodwright
Clearwater Credit Union
Cool Beanz
Cora Kaylor
Coldwell Banker Realty
Cowpoke Ranch Supply
Donna Huckeba
Eastside Ace Hardware (Stevi)
Angie
Eastside Country Store
Eickert Realty
Evans Ace Hardware
Farmers State Bank
First Security Bank
Ford’s Department Store
Massa Home Center
Michael T. Wright – Custom Saddles and Repairs
Montana 2nd Hand
Montana Custom Log Homes
Montana Leather Designs – Olive Parker
Montana Survival Seeds
Mountain Thistle Quilts
MT Sassy Sewing
Murdoch’s
NAPA Auto Parts (Stevi)
Nature’s Enhancement
Pat Elbert Stained Glass
Phyllis Riedman
Ravalli County Museum
Ravalli County Weed District
TireRama (Hamilton)
TireRama (Stevensville)
Tom Schwan
TrailWest Bank
Valley Drug
Valley Irrigation
Valley Pet Clinic
Victor Dental Clinic
Victor FFA
Victor Liquor
Victor Steak House
WBC - Western Building Center
Weichert Realtor - 406 Properties
Wendy Scott
Wilson’s Custom Draperies
The Victor Heritage Museum
Three Mile Community Center Board Members Joyce Pando and Colleen Schmiedeke are joined by Matt Pendergast, from the Lone Rock Park District Board. Photo by Kristin Kruse.
The playground at Ambrose Creek Park. Photo by Kristin Kruse.
Dog owners get trap training
by John Dowd
Montana is widely considered an outdoorsman’s paradise. For the people that live here, and no matter their occupation, everyone at some point will be getting outside. Ahead of adventures, many people think about taking courses like first aid or even basic survival before they go. However, an organization out of Bigfork is offering a different kind of training that particularly applies to dog owners in the state.
Given that Montana has the second highest percentage of dogs per household, according to worldpopulationreview.com, it should be no surprise that it is home to such an organization committed to dog safety in the outdoors. Last week, Montana K9 Safety visited Bug Out Montana in Corvallis to give one of their free courses on keeping dogs safe around trapping. The course was geared towards any dog owners, but particularly those that take their dogs on walks in the wilderness.
The presentation was given by trainers Racheal Vargas and Gary Forman. According to Forman, co-founder of Montana K9 Safety, “you’ve probably been near a trap site and never known it.” Forman has made it his mission to help dog owners across the state keep their pets safe.
When speaking on his inspiration, Forman spoke about an experience after he retired that changed his life and convinced him to pursue this training across the state. During a scenario with his son, who had recently returned from military deployment, mental concerns put his son in a dangerous place. Forman almost got into an altercation with his son and it was only when Forman’s dog stepped in and comforted his son, that the tension instantly dropped. According to Forman, when speaking on his son’s condition, “It wasn’t the medications he needed; he needed a dog.” Forman said this was the sign he needed to pursue something that would put more dogs in people’s lives and help people protect their best friends.
“My dog Sam was the inspiration for me,” said Forman. “We’re not just saving human lives anymore, we’re saving dog lives, because we know they are there for us.” These thoughts were echoed by Vargas, who was a nurse and now advocates for dog safety. Vargas said this kind of training is important for dog owners because, “there is obviously not a doggie ambulance,” so since “just about everyone in Montana will be working or recreating in the outdoors,” she believes they should learn how to deal with various scenarios they may encounter if they have a pet.
The free training primer, held last week, saw an attendance of over 25 people, including a variety of viewpoints on the subject of trapping.
The training included concepts such as state trapping regulations, preventative measures to keep dogs out of traps, familiarity with traps they may encounter, methods to safely get a dog out of a trap and potential injuries a dog may get from a trap and how to deal with these. They also looked at a dog-oriented first aid kit and a kit dog owners should carry, either in their nearby vehicle or on their person while hiking with their dogs, that would allow them the ability to remove their dog from a trap with limited injury. One of the main points reiterated during the training was how dog owners should endeavor to remain situationally aware, especially during the trapping season.
Vargas spoke about U.S. Forest Service roads, saying trappers will often set up trap sites near these locations. The trainers advised dog owners to look for bad smells, tracks going in but not coming out, trucks parked with numerous buckets in the bed among other trapper supplies and more. Sometimes there are posted signs, but not always. According to Vargas, this is because trappers want to avoid “hunter harassment,” and vandalism of their traps. They can also have their traps stolen,
or even their catches stolen, both of which can be expensive losses.
Trappers are required to report any dogs caught in traps, and so anyone whose dog gets caught should endeavor to get the ALS number and report the event. All traps are required to have a little metal tag attached with the trap owner’s ALS number.
Vargas advised that reporting helps maintain setbacks and trapper limitations, as well as trapfree areas and areas that specifically allow trapping, in order for both activities to occur safely.
“Whether you agree or disagree with trapping, that’s not what we are here for,” said Forman. “Either way, we need to learn to share,” and, “If we don’t get along, we’re gonna lose it.”
In Ravalli County, some recent regulations were changed to open up more areas to trapping. It is important to note that many seasonally closed roads allow trappers to set traps directly on the road, without any setbacks. On trails, traps must be set at least 50 feet off the trail. However, according to Vargas, “a dog can easily travel 50 feet.” This is why they suggest owners keep close watch on their dogs, and use a leash if possible. “There’s never been a dog caught in a trap that was on a leash.”
Many people can find themselves in conflict with trapping areas while out looking for Christmas trees, cross country skiing or snowshoeing, or even taking a walk with their dogs. According to Vargas, there are around 2,700 registered trappers across the state, and so going to areas during the season where known trapping could be occurring can increase the probability of a dog getting caught.
Forman said, “We can learn to prevent our dogs from getting into a trap if we learn to ‘profile’ areas,” a term used a lot in law enforcement. He took the term from his time in law enforcement and uses it to refer to compiling a number of seemingly benign observations on people, activities and clues that together point to a high probability of an activity or agenda. In other words, if an owner notices signs of trapping in an area, and a “profile” starts to take shape, it is probably a good idea for the dog and the owner to go somewhere else. Sometimes, the bait in traps can draw dogs, just like it draws the furbearers that it is meant to bring in. This means just being in an area with traps can draw a dog to them.
The trainers also explained that, unlike what popular opinion may suggest, most dogs will not lose a leg. Common foot-hold traps are not built to damage an animal severely, due to unwanted
damage to the hides of furbearers. Broken bones would cause damage, diminishing the hide’s value. Most often the trap will lock just around the ankle, and prevent the knuckle from fitting through. The problem arises when the animals are there for an extended period of time. The constant movement of a limb back and forth can cause lacerations. If a dog is left for hours in a trap, they may even start biting at the trap or their limb. The trap can also cause lack of blood flow if the limb is there for too long, which in the cold can be dangerous.
According to Forman, a lot of protection for the dog comes down to prior “desensitization” to the dog regarding traps. This means getting a dog used to sitting still, and used to a “holding pressure” on its ankle and paw. If a dog will sit still if it gets caught, this substantially increases its resistance to injury while trapped. “That can save a dog’s life,” said Forman. Owners should also be advised that there are often multiple traps in an area if there is already one found. Caution should be used when approaching a trapped pet.
For rescuing a dog from a trap, the trainers discussed various techniques for getting a dog out of a trap, and suggested people carry with them a basic kit with tools like zip ties, gloves, aviation wire cutters, vice grip pliers and several extra leashes among other things. Another important consideration was a muzzle to keep the dog from biting its savior, though the trainers also taught course-takers a simple trick to utilize a leash as a make-shift muzzle. These supplies, along with a basic dog first aid kit, can help turn a traumatic incident into simply an uncomfortable one.
Montana K9 Safety is always looking for locations to hold trainings. People can reach out to them, and they themselves often reach out to locations. In the case of last week’s training, they reached out to Bug Out Montana, knowing the business likes to provide all kinds of outdoor and survival training. Bug Out Montana hosts various classes on survival, martial arts, off-grid living and more.
Even though Montana K9 Safety is based in Bigfork, the organization works all across the state giving similar trainings, including first response to dog injuries, dog CPR, pet disaster response and much more. More information about them can be found at montanak9safety.com or by calling them at (406) 314-7024. For information about Bug Out Montana, interested parties can call (406) 5528246.
Celebrating the Season with Gratitude and Warm Wishes
As we celebrate this holiday season, let us reflect on the joy of good health and the blessings that surround us. At Sapphire Community Health, we are honored to care for our community and look forward to continuing to support your health and wellness in the coming year.
We wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas filled with peace, joy, and love, and a Happy New Year!
Sapphire Community Health will close at 12:00 PM on Christmas Eve and will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. We look forward to serving you when we reopen.
Gary Forman shows the contents of a kit he carries whenever he goes into the woods with his dogs. The kit includes everything he may need to get a dog out of a trap. Photo by John Dowd.
Hamilton city council wraps up year
by Nathan Boddy
The Hamilton City Council wrapped up its business in a quick meeting on Tuesday, December 17, and put a close to most council business for the year 2024. Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf officiated over the meeting without wavering from his seasonal role as Santa Claus, even handing out chocolates to councilors and members of the public as the meeting got underway.
The relatively short agenda included the appointment of Justin Freeman as a probationary police officer for the City of Hamilton. Freeman, who has previously served the City of Hamilton as a member of the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, is also an active member of the National Guard. Police Chief Steve Snavely informed the council that Freeman had passed all phases of the city’s selection process and received certification by the Police Com-
can result in increased retention rates among employees as well as a higher job satisfaction rate.
“I’m really excited to get this program up and running,” said Snavely. “It’s never been done here at the police department or within the city that I know of.” Snavely went on to express optimism that the program could be replicated within other city departments.
Chief Snavely also informed the councilors that three of his officers – Chris Lueck, Randy Eppinger and Kimberly Holmes – participated in the ‘Shop With a Cop,’ along with officers from Darby, and Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office. The Shop With a Cop program, which is widely replicated across the country, provides donated funds to be distributed to children, nominated by their school districts, for a day of Christmas shopping. The officers serve as accompaniment and chaperone during the event, with an overall goal of developing bonds between youth and law enforcement.
mission on December 11 of this year.
Chief Snavely also updated the council on plans that he has for the city police department in the coming year, including a new mentorship program. According to Snavely, half of millennial-aged hires report that mentorship is, “the most important factor when accepting a new job,” and that mentorships
Assistant Fire Chief Tyson Woods gave the city councilors an update on the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, which he reported had responded to 344 calls so far in 2024, with two more weeks before the year’s end. Woods also informed the councilors that he was able to attend the Stock Farm Community Christmas Party, and along with the help of the Hamilton Volunteer Firefighter Association, was able to distribute 100 smoke detectors and hand out junior firefighter helmets to kids.
“There’s a lot of people that said they are living in campers and do not have smoke detectors,” he said, expressing the hope that their condition can be made safer.
The City Council also adopted a job description that will be used as the city moves forward in seeking a permanent Fire Chief. City attorney Karen
Mahar informed the council that the job description was built upon a base of requirements as expressed by Montana statutes, but also includes some items specific to Hamilton firefighting efforts as agreed upon by the HVFA and the Hamilton Rural Fire District.
Mahar also detailed the process by which the position would be filled, including the selection committee which will include city staff, a council representative and representatives from both rural and city fire departments.
“We’re on a pretty prompt deadline,” said Mahar, but explained that the posting of the position will take place prior to Christmas, with the hopes that interviews can begin in January.
City councilmember Rod Pogachar volunteered to fill the councilor position on the selection committee, a selfless act which would appear to be at odds with the Grinch-themed hat he wore during the meeting.
WHEELS: program gives cars to vets
Continued from page 1
with the support of Hamilton Automotive Repair, Western Rockies Radio and scores of other businesses who donate their time, efforts and financial assistance. The program, now in its third year, selects a veteran and honors them with a donation of a well-maintained, fully licensed and insured vehicle.
Moore says that annual selection of a veteran is not an easy task, especially given that they accept nominations from throughout the valley. This year, they had to narrow the candidate from a pool of 30 eligible veterans.
“We want to help them all,” said Moore. Ultimately, this year’s recipient was veteran Harry Swinson, who, Moore explained, lost his wife to a medical emergency earlier this year and is now raising his stepchildren by himself.
“He’s gone through a lot,” said Moore. “Not only does he deserve this because of his commitment to our community, but the selflessness that he’s had, and what he’s stepped up to do.”
Moore also said that this year’s fundraising was
sufficient to not only provide Swinson with the Toyota, but also to provide some vehicle assistance for other veterans as well. All the funding raised by the program remains 100% within the Bitterroot Valley.
The vehicle that Swinson received is a 2013 Toyota Camry, which was provided by Larry and Diane Winters of Stevensville. Moore explained that the Wheels for A Warrior program often likes to provide SUVs, on account of their size but that they couldn’t pass up on the Camry because it was in such good shape.
During the presentation of the vehicle on Thursday night, Harry and his family were brought to Hamilton’s Main Street in style, riding in a stretch SUV limousine provided by Royal Limousine Services. Upon arrival, they were greeted by Santa Claus (City Mayor, Dominic Farrenkopf)
The 2013 Toyota Camry which was donated to area veteran, Harry Swinson. Wheels For A Warrior coordinated the effort with the help of over two dozen Bitterroot businesses and individuals. This year’s vehicle was graciously provided by Larry and Diane Winters of Stevensville. Photo by Nathan Boddy.
and a crowd of no less than 40 supporters who gave Harry a warm welcome.
Mariya Moore spoke to the crowd, giving thanks to the many businesses that helped make the car donation possible, before Nick Nichols of Hamilton Automotive Repair presented Swinson with the keys to his new car.
The event ended with a drawing for a Ruger American 243 Rifle, provided by Frontier Guns and Ammo, the proceeds for which were given directly back to the Wheels For A Warrior program.
As Moore spoke to the crowd, she also implored the community businesses to always consider the many talented and dedicated veterans who might be looking for work.
“If you can offer a trade, or if you have a service you can offer up,” she said as a reminder, “our vets in this community, they’re loved, and they’re appreciated.”
Jolly Ol’ Farrenkopf signs off on city business during the Hamilton City Council meeting on December 17. Photo by Nathan Boddy.
City Councilor, Rod Pogachar, shows the prize he pulled from the ’naughty or nice’ hat as offered by Saint Farrenkopf. Photo by Nathan Boddy.
Bitterroot Health Foundation event raises
The Bitterroot Health Foundation hosted its third annual Festival of Trees from November 29 through December 2 at the Bedford Building, downtown Hamilton. This year’s event marked a venue change from previous years, and attendees embraced the cozy downtown setting.
The event showcased 30 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths from local non-profit organizations, each adorned with unique themes, and many were paired with thousands of dollars in additional gifts. Participants sold their creations through live and silent auctions.
Eight hospital departments donated trees as well as 19 local non-profits: Daly Mansion, Ravalli County Junior Rodeo Association, Hamilton Players, Bitterroot Historical Society, Emma’s House, Darby Rodeo Association, Riding for Ravalli Kids, Bitterroot Humane Association, St. Mary’s Mission, Bitterroot CASA, Bitterroot Discovery Children’s Museum, St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, VEO Guardians, Corvallis Middle School Student Council, Friends of Hamilton School Foundation, Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, Bitterroot Valley Kiwanis, Stevi Food Program, and BEAR.
The first evening, the public was welcomed to a lively “Karaoke and Ugly Christmas Sweater Party,” featuring a DJ playing holiday music while encouraging guests to take the stage.
The weekend continued with family-friendly activities, including cookie decorating, Teddy Bears in the Trees, and visits with Santa. Guests were treated to live Christmas music from a variety of local performers, such as a string quartet, an a cappella choir, a bell choir, and several children’s choir groups. Saturday night’s “Hot Toddies in the Trees” party added to the festive atmosphere. These activities were part
by Bitterroot Health Hospice. This annual heartfelt ceremony included reading over 100 names of local hospice patients, honored and remembered by family and friends.
Festivities concluded on Monday night with the Tree Buyers’ Banquet; over 120 guests enjoyed dinner before participating in the live and silent auction. The evening included a paddle-call auction, where attendees raised $17,000—surpassing the $10,000 goal—to purchase a Fluid Management System for delicate surgical procedures. The excess funds were designated for a new mammography unit for the hospital.
By the end of the event, tree and wreath sales raised $20,200 for eight hospital clinics and $22,511 for 19 local non-profits. Combined with the $17,000 raised for hospital equipment, the total reached an impressive $60,000.
John Bishop, CEO of Bitterroot Health, expressed his gratitude, saying, “We are pleased that this year’s Festival of Trees was so well received by the community. The guests and businesses that attended the dinner were incredibly generous, and every dime of that $60,000 will be utilized locally and will benefit everyone in our entire valley.”
The Bitterroot Health Foundation thanks all attendees, volunteers, and sponsors who made the Festival of Trees a resounding success. Their support ensures vital resources and services remain accessible to the community. For more information about the Bitterroot Health Foundation and its initiatives, or to donate online, visit bitterroothealth.org/GIVE or contact the Foundation directly: (406) 375-4674.
SANTA: airborne from the North Pole
Continued from page 1
groups. One group went to walk around Stevensville Airport Board Chair Craig Thomas’s hangar. The other group went into a hangar owned by a member of the Museum of Mountain Flying. The member lets the event utilize the hangar to hand out presents to kids and sit with Santa for photos.
All the presents, including toys, games and puzzles, were donated by the museum. According to Brian Germane, Stevensville Airport Manager, the airport is always trying to see how they can help put the event on, but the museum always graciously takes everything on. For Germane, and others with the airport, it is an especially important event of the year because it allows them another way to spread “awareness of the airport and its importance to the community.” Additionally, Germane said, “As a child, to come and get this exposure to aviation, this is how we get the next generation of aviators.”
During their time in the hangar, the children also learned about aviation and how Wissenbach got started. Wissenbach is one of the few pilots still helping keep the event going. The original event was much bigger and much more involved. Holding it the way it was started got extremely time consuming and expensive for participating pilots, and Olson explained that many simply moved away.
The museum still works with schools across the state to coordinate the event. This year, Olson said they had fewer schools participate than in the past, and also fewer pilots. They decided to have one big event in Missoula and only a few special flights in rural communities, including the one in Stevens-
ville.
According to Olson, the event started during COVID-19, when all the pilots participating would fly to Missoula, pick up toys and fly back out to their prospective communities to spread cheer and joy.
“A lot of families weren’t going to be able to get their Christmas shopping done,” said Olson. At that time
there were over 20 pilots. Olson hopes one day they can do the big event again.
Interested parties can learn more about the Stevensville Airport and its events by calling (406) 369-5502. For more information on the Museum of Mountain Flying, interested persons can visit museumofmountainflying.com or call (406) 721-3644.
of the Downtown Association’s broader efforts to draw visitors to Hamilton for holiday shopping. Sunday night featured the annual Tree of Lights memorial event, which honored individuals served
Photo courtesy Bitterroot Health Foundation.
Santa poses with some of Stevensville’s second graders at the Stevensville Municipal Airport. Photo by John Dowd.
Response to Tschida
In a recent letter, Missoula’s Brad Tschida accused me of failing to protect female legislators from “physical and mental abuse and anguish.” At issue is my vote against a legislative rule (not a law, but rather a parliamentary procedure applicable only to the Legislature) that would have forbidden Montana’s lone transgender legislator from using the women’s restroom in the Capitol. It is a shame that Tschida chose both to misrepresent the facts and to do so in such an ad homi
nem manner. So let’s turn the heat down and assess the situation.
court would then issue an order not limited to legislative restrooms but that rather would affect restrooms across the entire state. Some might disagree with my analysis. But I am not willing to risk this outcome by prematurely forcing this issue into the courts.
Pay to attract more tourists, or to lower property taxes?
Here’s a rhetorical question for Montanans: would you rather state government spend public money on things like billboards in Chicago to attract more tourists, or use that money to lower your property taxes?
National Park during tourism season. We have a housing shortage and escalating home values have contributed to higher property taxes.
First, it’s important to realize that the proposed rule would have only applied to a single women’s restroom in the Montana Capitol—which is off-limits to the public—and nowhere else in Montana. But such a rule is unnecessary because protecting the privacy of female legislators had already been accomplished during the 2023 session by placing locks on the restroom doors. This solution—approved by then-House Speaker Matt Regier and other conservative legislative leaders—worked then and will work again during the 2025 session. Contra Tschida’s claim, the safety of my female colleagues is not at risk.
But some believe that adopting this “bathroom rule” would “send a message.” Fair enough. But let’s consider how this would likely play out. First, within days the Legislature would be sued for violating the transgender legislator’s constitutional rights. Because the law is unsettled at both the state and federal level—even regarding the definitions of sex and gender—there is a good chance the Legislature would lose. (Recent court decisions in Montana substantiate this concern.) And it is quite conceivable that the
The controversy over gender dysphoria ranges from bathroom privacy to fairness in girls’ sports to so-called gender-affirming medical procedures performed on minors. The best path forward is to encourage Congress to amend federal law (e.g., Title IX) to ensure that sex and gender are different things in the eyes of the law and to explicitly protect women’s rights. The Legislature then would be in a position to craft sound policy that is respectful of the rights of all and that could stand up in court.
I’m not up for enabling transgender activists or rightwing opportunists to distract the Legislature from doing its work in 2025. And I am not alone. A week after I took my vote, President-elect Donald Trump took essentially the same position concerning restroom access in Congress when responding to questions raised while being interviewed as the 2024 TIME Person of the Year.
I look forward to regularly reporting to you on the issues coming before the Legislature. Alas, this likely is not the last you will hear from Brad Tschida, a former legislator who now fashions himself a political commissar whose mission it is to enforce ideological purity within the Republican Party—by any means necessary. Remember that when his next vitriolic tantrum hits the papers.
Rep. David Bedey, R, is the representative for Montana House District 86.
I know exactly how my constituents in the Flathead Valley would answer that question and I’m sure their opinion is shared by other Montanans. That’s why I’m bringing a bill in the upcoming legislative session to change how the state uses money collected from lodging taxes and car rentals.
by David Bedey by Carl Glimm
For years, tourists and Montanans alike have paid a tax on their hotel stays and rental cars. It’s one of the only ways Montana—without having a sales tax—can collect revenue from the millions of tourists who visit our state every year.
What those taxes are used for has fluctuated over the years, but one of the primary uses has been state-sponsored recruitment of more tourists. Because everyone pays the lodging tax when staying at a hotel, that means, for example, Montana families who travel to another town for a soccer tournament have been unwittingly contributing to multi-million-dollar advertising campaigns to bring more tourists into the Last Best Place.
We don’t need that. A lot of people have moved here in recent years. Campgrounds are full and you now need a reservation to get into Glacier
Senator Daniel Zolnikov, R-Billings, made a good change to the lodging tax in the 2023 legislative session, directing more of the money toward dealing with the impacts of tourism, and only promoting tourism in economically depressed places that could use more of it.
My proposal is to go one step further in 2025: keep a smaller percentage of those taxes going to the purposes Sen. Zolnikov outlined in Senate Bill 540 last session, but use the majority of the money to reduce property taxes.
Initial estimates are that my draft bill (LC0627) would save every Montana resident homeowner and renter up to about $400 on property taxes every single year.
With my bill, tourists would be helping pay for things like road infrastructure by taking some of that burden off property taxpayers. And the traveling soccer mom paying the lodging tax at a hotel would get a break on her family’s property taxes instead of her money heading out of state to advertise Montana.
Senator Carl Glimm, R-Kila, is the Chair of the 2025 Legislature’s Finance and Claims Committee, which handles the state budget.
Lowest Xmas gas prices since 2020
For those hitting the road ahead of Christmas or getting last minute gifts, Santa has delivered. Motorists will likely see a national average price of gas of $2.95 per gallon on Christmas, the lowest we’ve seen on Christmas Day since 2020, according to GasBuddy, saving North American drivers the most money on gas.
soaring across the globe, causing governments to increase borrowing costs, slowing the global economy, easing demand, which slowed inflation.
After waiting years for the national average to fall back to levels more consistent with norms, gasoline prices are finally there, thanks to the Federal Reserve slowing the economy down with higher interest rates, a weak economy in China, the world’s second largest oil consumer, and the ultimate healer: time. It has now been several years since the economy was growing at blistering pace, sending prices, including fuel,
“This holiday season is shaping up to be a gift for American drivers, with gas prices presenting a stark contrast to the budget-breaking levels we’ve seen in recent years and a return to what feels like normal for many Americans filling their tanks,” said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy. “After waiting an exhausting two years for imbalances brought on by Covid and Russia’s war on Ukraine to settle down, we’re finally getting back to normal. Whether you’re driving over the river and through the woods to grandmother’s house or embarking on a longer holiday road trip, your wallet will feel a bit heavier, especially when utilizing the free GasBuddy app to find cheap gas.”
States with the Most/Least Expensive Holiday Gas Prices in 2024 1. Oklahoma ($2.46/ gal) | Hawaii ($4.58/ gal)
Sadie ● female
With a little patience and a slow introduction, Sadie is sure to blossom into a loving companion. Her previous owners felt she would thrive better in an environment with a more active lifestyle. However, what this precious pup truly craves is a warm, friendly space where she can feel secure and loved.
GasBuddy recommends holiday road trippers always check fuel prices before filling up, especially when crossing state lines where gas taxes can cause prices to fluctuate. GasBuddy will also be releasing its 2025 Fuel Outlook later this month, forecasting gas prices for the year ahead to inform both consumers and fuel retailers of the top trends to watch for to save money.
American Hercules? Or Caesar?
Be careful what you wish for. You might get it. Love him adoringly or hate him vehemently, in just a few days, Donald J. Trump will become the next President of the United States, unless, of course, something occurs which prevents him taking office. What will happen then is anybody’s guess--the highest degree of Heaven or the lowest degree of Hell not being ruled out--depending on your own personal viewpoint. What is certain is that, regardless of what Trump proposes or acts on, he will have the widespread support of a very large percentage of the country, even if his actions directly infringe on the freedoms and liberties which this country was founded on and prospered under for so many years.
Such is the state of affairs we live in. America has reached the Age of Hero-worship and Trump will likely go down in history as the first demi-god of the US, perhaps the only one ever to ascend to that giddy, oxygen-starved height. As quickly as world affairs are moving today, it is not certain whether the United States will even survive the next four years in its current form, let alone give rise to another, more commanding figure of Herculean stature. I’m willing to bet that Trump will be a “once-in-an-empire” type figure. While there will be other leaders after him, there is no one else that I know of who has the overpowering macho charisma (and the groupie following) to gain such prominence. Trump may be the last American president and the first American dictator. The transition is at hand and does not bode well for our future. Remember that Nero and Caligula ruled after Augustus Caesar. It should be noted, however, that he only has a few years (at the most) to do his best (worst?). Whether naturally or with assistance, he will die and the world will continue to turn without him. It would behoove us not to expect too much from him nor to expect that his actions would long survive him. It would be a mistake to look to him as the “savior” of all that we hold dear and true. Contrary to popular belief in some circles, he is not The Messiah, but only one in a long string of false messiahs, most of whom have already departed after stamping their own personal “mark” on the world’s forehead. Be careful not to place too much hope in him. You will probably be disappointed.
Full faith and credit in the US government has brought us to this point. Where we go from here is unknown.
Roger Mitchell Stevensville
Modern day mafia
Time to express my opinion again on what is happening in our country. Based upon some of the recent letters from other members of our community, it is clear that some just can’t comprehend how Trump got re-elected. Personally, when I read some of these letters accusing him of criminal acts and being a threat to our democracy, I mentally think that the writers mistakenly used Trump’s name instead of Biden.
There remains no doubt in my mind that the Biden family is the modern-day mafia. The deals that have taken place between the Bidens and several foreign countries have been criminal to say the least. I feel certain that the reason the President just par-
Opinion
doned his son was based in part to limit future prosecution that might uncover other activities.
Speaking of pardons, have you been following the other pardons that President Biden has been giving out? The number is over a thousand the last I heard. Some of them associated with marijuana sound okay to this writer but others, including a judge, are extremely controversial.
And if you need evidence of Biden lying, just read up on pardoning his son after he had repeatedly stated that he would never do that.
Here are a few of my other problems caused by our current President that I hope Trump quickly changes/ corrects:
1. Open borders – the latest Presidential election certainly showed that the majority of our fellow citizens are concerned about what has happened at our borders during Biden’s presidency. Most of us clearly see the threat to our security and the drug traffic that has taken place with the open border policies. Some “blue” state governors and mayors are threatening to fight the deportation of known criminals and terrorists. HELLO, does that make any sense to our readers? And, just this week it has come out that the Biden administration is selling stockpiled border fence components from Trump’s first term for scrap prices.
2. Spending spree – the amount of money spent by the Biden administration has been ridiculous. The Department of Defense audit failed to account for billions, FEMA and VA funding seemed to have disappeared or was diverted to other areas such as the illegal immigrants, and at least some of the money spent under the “climate change” umbrella disappeared or was wasted in cost overruns (electric car charging stations as an example). However, Biden is not the only one at fault here as the last minute funding bill discussion taking place as I write this has uncovered ridiculous spending proposals.
3. International status – trying to appease the international community by attempting to look like the “good guy” has been a disaster. Two major wars still going on and threatening to expand into World War III have resulted from Biden’s inept foreign diplomacy. The reader should find it interesting that Trump is already announcing changes that will take place on his first day in office.
4. Finally, “Dronegate”. What is going on with the drones being flown over states in the northeast and California?
President Biden has not uttered a single word on this topic to the best of my knowledge, and his spokespersons have repeatedly stated to not be alarmed as there is nothing to worry about even though they state that they don’t really know what is going on. Well, that really alarms me. I suspect they do know what is going on but for some reason won’t tell us – I find that totally unsatisfactory. On the other hand if they don’t know what is going on then it’s a lie to tell us not to worry about it! I totally agree with President Trump –if the government doesn’t know what is going on, shoot them down.
5. It has just been announced through White House staff admissions, that they have shielded Biden during his entire term as President because of his diminished mental state. I again ask, who is running this country?
Enough for this time around.
Jerry Esmay Stevensville
An unfortunate turn of events
Our Republican friends voted for Donald Trump to be President for the next four years. He promised great things like getting rid of the migrants (illegal and otherwise), bringing our economy back under control, lowering the cost of food, being the “protector of women” (whatever that means!), and ensuring that the wealthy become wealthier!
Unfortunately, President-elect Trump did not count on a billionaire of South African heritage stepping in and stealing his thunder. The last few days have proven how weak Donald Trump is and how powerful Elon Musk is!
It is now clear that Elon Musk is in charge. But wait! One has to be born in America to become President. Elon Musk was born in South Africa.
This reminds me of Donald Trump‘s full-on obsession regarding President Obama being born in Africa. And here we are again. Another man of African heritage taking command of the US Government!
What a sad turn of events: Donald Trump and Elon Musk vying for the highest office in the land! Where does that leave JD Vance, who Republicans elected as their Vice-President?
Time will tell, as they say. It should be an interesting four years!
Please read the book, “On Tyranny” by Timothy Snyder for strategies to help save our democracy.
Tom Tunny Hamilton
Fack check this
After the January 6th attack on our nation’s capitol, the United States House Select Committee headed by a conservative Republican, was formed to investigate the insurrection. They found the following:
“After refusing to concede the 2020 U.S. presidential election and perpetuating false and disproven claims of widespread voter fraud, then-President Donald Trump summoned a mob of protesters to the Capitol as the electoral votes
were being counted on January 6, 2021. During the House Committee’s subsequent investigation, people gave sworn testimony that Trump knew he lost the election.”
The Committee subpoenaed his testimony, identifying him as “the center of the first and only effort by any U.S. President to overturn an election and obstruct the peaceful transition of power.” He sued the committee and never testified.
The Committee interviewed over a thousand people and reviewed over a million documents.Some members of Trump’s inner circle cooperated, while others defied the committee.
The overwhelming preponderance of evidence and testimony, given by his followers, leaves absolutely no doubt that he is responsible for the attack on the capitol, the loss of lives and was the leader and instigator of the insurrection. However, the partisan courts and Republican congress members irresponsibly refused to bring him to trial prior to the upcoming election. They failed to uphold their oath to protect the Constitution and the rule of law.
Since both the House and Senate are controlled by the Republican Party, he cannot be impeached even if he shoots someone. Our judicial system is corrupt and has failed to uphold Trump’s day in court for his many crimes. To say Trump committed gross “high crimes and misdemeanors” is an obvious understatement.
Jeffrey Epstein said Trump was his closest friend for over ten years. Trump praised Epstein and said he was a “terrific guy.” Epstein told reporters Trump was a “horrible human being.” Imagine that, a child sex offender and child sex trafficker telling us that Trump was a “horrible human being.” Takes one to know one. And now our government is making him president. Welcome to American justice!
Mark Snider Hamilton
A Course of Love study group
Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Center for Spiritual Life, Hamilton Call: 406-381-6480
Florence American Legion
Florence American Legion Post 134 is having a free pancake breakfast on the first Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Hall.
Knotty Knitters Guild
Meets the 4th Tuesday of every month except July, August, December, and January at 6 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 275 Hattie Lane, Hamilton. You can also bring your knitting project to visit and knit with friends or get help with questions on Fridays from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. Any questions call 406-381-5123 or just show up on Friday!
Yoga for Veterans FREE to veterans, first responders, and their families! Tuesdays, 1-2pm at the American Legion Post 94 in Stevensville Register at: redwillowlearning.org OR call 406-5307175. Come see us on 1st Friday in May ‘bout 1800 for more info! We’ll be in front of Active Care Wellness on Main in Stevensville
MS Support Group
Bitterroot MS Support Group meets every 3rd Thursday of the month in the Gallery room at the Coffee Cup Cafe in Hamilton, 500 S 1st Street, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Have a slice of pie, dinner, or just come to chat with others about living with Multiple Sclerosis. This is a positive and uplifting group that holds open discussions, and the occasional guest speaker. Find more information at www.nationalmssociety.org or contact Jackie Peterson, (970)518-293, jackierpeterson@gmail.com
Republican Central Committee
The Ravalli County Republican Central Committee regular monthly meetings are held the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at The Place Church, 273 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. All are welcome to attend.
Bitterroot Celtic Society
The Bitterroot Celtic Society meets every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton. The Bitterroot Celtic Society is a passionate group of volunteers, dedicated to keeping the Celtic culture, heritage, and history alive in the Bitterroot Valley. Their biggest event is the Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering, held every third weekend in August at the Historic Daly Mansion. They also host a Burns’ Night supper, St. Andrew’s, St. Patrick’s, and Tartan day events. The BCS is a non-profit organization. The public, new members, and the curious are always welcome to attend. For any time changes or additional committee meeting info, follow their Facebook page for updates.
Stevensville Christmas Bird Count
People have been counting birds at Christmastime in Stevensville for 60 years. If that sounds like a lot, people in New York have been counting birds for 125 years!
The Stevensville Christmas Bird Count is a 15-mile diameter circle centered on the Stevensville Ranger Station. It stretches from St. Mary Peak to the grist mill up Burnt Fork and almost from Florence to Victor. On December 28th, parties of people will go out to cover as much area as possible and count every bird they can identify by sight or sound.
Each of the 2600 count circles in the US and Canada follows the same protocols. The local count is part of a national effort to monitor trends in winter bird population and distribution.
Bitterroot Bird Alliance (formerly Bitterroot Audubon) encourages area birders of any skill level to participate, since the emphasis is on having fun and learning more about birds in addition to collecting data. Birders who would prefer to stay at home and count the birds at their feeders can also provide valuable data, but their yards must be within the Count Circle. Please contact the compiler for details.
Birders interested in counting the birds within 7.5 miles of Stevensville can gather in the basement conference room of the Stevensville Ranger Station (88 Main Street) between 7:30 and 7:45 a.m. to meet other participants and get area assignments. The group will not be meeting at lunchtime. For additional information contact compiler, Deborah Goslin, at (406) 214-7879 or 1stevicbc@gmail. com.
North Valley Library
Library Holiday Closures
The Library will close at 1 p.m. on Dec. 31 for New Year’s Eve and be closed on Jan 1. Fiber Arts Club—Thurs, Jan. 9 from 12-1:30 p.m.
Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting, embroidery, hand sewing, or quilting? Bring your work-in-progress, problem piece, or brand-new pattern and enjoy the company of like-minded crafters during this informal Fiber Arts Club. There will be no presenter or expert teacher but rather a cozy place to gather, have tea, and a community of yarn and fiber artists
like yourself. All experience levels welcome.
Free Range Arts & Crafts for Adults—Thurs, Jan. 9 at 6 p.m.
The craft vault is open and everything from needle felting to clay sculpting awaits. Enjoy a coloring book, practice with pastels, or bring your own project to finally finish, it’s up to you.
Hamilton school board Governance Committee Meeting
Monday – January 6, 2025
5:30 p.m. – District Office Conference Room
The Committee will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube.
Special Board Meeting
Monday – January 6, 2025
6:30 p.m. – District Office – Conference Room
Agenda: Review of Superintendent Applications – Closed Session. This portion of the meeting will be held in closed session due to privacy issues.
Possible Announcement of Superintendent Candidate Finalists The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. Regular Board Meeting
Tuesday – January 14, 2025
6:30 p.m. – District Office – Conference Room
The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. Governance Committee Meeting
Thursday – February 6, 2025
12:00 p.m. – District Office Conference Room
The Committee will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at: https://www. youtube.com/@ HSD3Boardmtg Regular
Board Meeting Tuesday – February 11, 2025
6:30 p.m. – District Office – Conference Room
The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at: https://www. youtube.com/@HSD3Boardmtg
Grief coping series
The death of a loved one is one of the most difficult experiences we face in life. Please come share your grief journey with others.
Tuesdays, January 7th – April 1st at 3-5pm at St Francis Pastoral Life Center, 411 S. 5th St, Hamilton
Each session includes a short video featuring interviews with grief recovery experts, real-life stories of people who have experienced the death of a loved one and the opportunity to hear from other participants regarding challenges, questions, and concerns you may encounter in your grief journey.
The program will explore dealing with change, guilt, anger, people who don’t understand your grief, tips for preparing for holidays and special occasions, caring for yourself, honoring your loved one and much more.
These faith-based Griefshare. org Sessions are free ($20 donation appreciated for workbook) Register at https://www.griefshare.org/groups/251057 For more info, contact Nancy at stfrancishwm@ gmail.com.
Garden Club
Stevensville Garden Club’s monthly meeting will be Wednesday, January 8, at 1 p.m. at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 184 Pine Hollow Rd. Guest speaker Casey Ruple from Caras Nursery will present her
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
Sports Bitterroot Valley Basketball
Hamilton
The Hamilton girls and boys basketball teams went to Lockwood on December 20 & 21 for the Lockwood Tip Off Tournament where teams from the Western A played teams from the Eastern A. Lockwood High School is a Class A school located east of Billings that opened in 2020.
On Friday, the Hamilton teams played Havre. In the girls game, Hamilton was defeated by Havre 32-72. For Hamilton, Meryn Leonardi led the scoring with 17 points, Ashlynn McKern had 6, Ella Griffin had 4, Kennidi Cooper and Annalise Lewis each had 2, and Mariah Domingo added 1. In the boys game, Hamilton was defeated by Havre 53-58.
On Saturday, Hamilton played Lockwood. In the girls game, Hamilton lost 29-69. For Hamilton, Ashlynn McKern led the scoring with 15 points, Annalise Lewis and Meryn Leonardi each had 3, and Ella Griffin, Kennidi Cooper, Tricia Wilson, and Mariah Domingo each added 2. In the boys game, Hamilton lost 54-67.
Florence
The Florence basketball teams hosted St. Ignatius on Friday, December 20. The Florence boys defeated St. Ignatius 73-41. For Florence, Brody Duchien led the scoring with 19 points, Bridger Alexander and Mason Arlington each had 9, Jake Schneiter and Wes Potter each had 7, Kade Anderson had 6, Levi Winters and Mose Smith each had 5, Schoenfeld Grant had 4, and Laasch Makoa added 2.
In the girls game, Florence defeated St. Ignatius 59-50. For Florence, Maggie Schneiter led the scoring with 15 points, Emory Ralston had 13, Kenzy Pickering had 11, Jaden Fisher and Madigan Hurlbert each had 6, Ali Meinhold and Kendyl Meinhold each had 3, and Taylor Pyette added 2. On Saturday, Florence hosted Eureka. In the girls game, Florence defeated Eureka 66-30. For Florence, Taylor Pyette led the scoring with 11 points, Jaden Fisher and Kenzy Pickering each had 10, Shelby Crocker had 8, Kendyl
Meinhold had 7, Ali Meinhold had 6, Maggie Schneiter had 5, Emory Ralston had 4, Alyx Monaco had 3, and Madigan Hurlbert added 2. In the boys game, Florence won 64-30. For Florence, Jake Schneiter led the scoring with 17 points, Brody Duchien had 12, Bridger Alexander had 11, Levi Winters had 8, Laasch Makoa had 6, Kade Anderson and Mose Smith had 4, and Schoenfeld Grant and Mason
Arlington each added 2.
Darby
The Darby and Victor boys and girls basketball teams battled in Victor on Tuesday, Dec. 17 with Darby winning both games. The Darby boys won 51-9, while the Darby girls won 50-22.
The Darby boys traveled to Superior on Friday, December 20 and lost 4660. For Darby, McCoy Townsend had a
big game with 23 points, Jordan Browning had 10, Leif Nelson had 4, Oliver Long and Braydon Lundgren had 3, Colter Bennett had 2, and Ben Martin added 1.
The Darby girls hosted Superior on Friday and won 5444. For Darby, Georgia Fisher and Hadley Heiland had big games. Fisher led the way with 24 points, while Heiland had 23. Also for Darby, Nyna Reasor had 3, Lilly Bennett had 2, and Natalie Anderson and Austin Hackel each added 1.
Corvallis
The Corvallis girls played Ronan on Tuesday, December 17 and lost 18-40. They then played Sidney on Friday, Dec. 20 and lost 40-49. Then on Saturday, Dec. 21, they defeated Livingston 52-48. Corvallis’s Ella Varner led the scoring in the Livingston game with 18 points.
The Corvallis boys played Sidney on Dec. 20 and lost 43-58. On Saturday they played Livingston and won 52-37.
Stevensville
The Stevensville boys and girls basketball teams went to Valley Christian on Tuesday, December 17. The Stevensville girls lost 34-75, while the Stevensville boys won 47-42. The ‘Jackets boys team built a 39-28 lead going into the 4th quarter and withheld a late charge by Valley Christian to get the victory.
For Stevensville, Angus Trangmoe led the scoring with 12 points, David Beames had 10, Jake Gavlak had 9, Evan Montague had 5, Kaden Wyant had 3, and Tanner Brown, Spencer Moore, Silas Seibert, and David Laufenberg each added 2. On Saturday, December 20, the Stevensville boys and girls went to Libby. The girls fell to the Loggers 21-59, while the boys were defeated 32-36.
Bitterroot Valley wrestling results
Glyn Brawley Classic
The boys wrestling teams from Corvallis, Hamilton and Missoula Sentinel competed in the Glyn Brawley Classic Invitational in Corvallis on Saturday, December 21. In the team standing, Corvallis took 1st, Hamilton took 2nd and Missoula Sentinel took 3rd.
Individually for Corvallis, Chase Davis placed 1st and Axton Houser placed 2nd at 103. Kahle Hill placed 1st at 118. Sean Davis placed 1st at 126. Quinn Wissenbach placed 2nd at 126 and Kale Benson placed 3rd at 126. Byron Stoker placed 1st at 138 and Boone Venema placed 2nd at 138. Colby Bowles placed 1st at 144 and Kaison Weidow placed 2nd at 144. Ezra Hillman placed 1st at 150, Peyton Harbin placed 3rd at 150 and Colter Bestor placed 4th at 150. Castin Borkholder placed 1st at 157. Kade Bowles placed 1st at 165 and Saxton Jes -
sop placed 2nd at 165. Colton Snyder placed 1st at 175. Cayde Olsen placed 2nd and Maurice Craun placed 3rd at 190. Blaine Wallace placed 2nd at Heavyweight. Individually for Hamilton, Wesley Hunt placed 3rd at 103. Cameron Beall placed 1st at 132. Colt Yocom placed 2nd at 132. Ian Digiovanni placed 3rd at 138. Torean Caroll placed 2nd at 150. Dominic Olsen placed 3rd at 157. Noah Guisinger placed 1st at 190. Jesse James placed 1st at Heavyweight.
CMR Holiday Tournament
The Florence wrestling team went to Great Falls on December 20 & 21 for the CMR Holiday Classic. This was a massive tournament with roughly 58 high school teams competing from all classes. Needless to say, a top 8 finish at this tournament is impressive.
Individually for the Florence boys, Rowan Mill -
er placed 8th at 132 and Jett Murray placed 6th at 175.
Arlee Christmas Invite
The boys and girls wrestling teams from Stevensville and Darby joined the teams from Arlee, Plains and Deer Lodge in Arlee for the Arlee Christmas Invite on December 21.
Individually for the Stevensville boys, Todd Whitescarver took 1st at 144, Landon Bryan took 1st at 157, and Jordan Baker placed 2nd at 138.
For the Stevensville girls, Keenya Gibson took 1st at 130, Kacey Springer took 3rd at 145, and Avery Faler placed 5th at 120.
Individually for the Darby girls, Tayler Rust took 2nd at 120.
For the Darby boys, Mark Sandoval took 1st at 138, Eli Spross took 2nd at 215, and Tristen
132.
Spross took 5th at
Corvallis’s Drew Lewis defends an inbound pass. Lewis led the Blue Devils in their 52-37 victory over Livingston on Saturday, December 21. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Stevensville’s Angus Trangmoe led the ‘Jackets with 12 points in their 47-42 victory over Valley Christian on Tuesday, December 17. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Hamilton’s Canaan Magness, one of the top basketball players in Class A, looks to make a move. Magness is one of the top players in Class A basketball. The Broncs lost games over the weekend to Havre and Lockwood on December 20 & 21. Photo by Scott Sacry.
Youth outdoor group getting ready for another year
In early December, members from Montana Matter Youth Outdoor Experience were presented with a $5,000 check from Ravalli Electric Co-op. This, along with the funds raised at the annual banquet, is a big part of the money needed to be able to send kids to outdoor adventure summer camps throughout western Montana.
In order to receive one of the scholarships, youth must attend the May 3 Montana Matters Youth Outdoor event in 2025. It will be held at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. All the participating conservation organizations and
camp hosts will be present. After kids visit and participate in at least 12 of the 40 plus work stations they will have the opportunity to put their names in for a summer camp. Kids from 7 to 17 years old are eligible. Camps are drawn at 3 p.m. on that day. They have over 20 camps to choose from. From the Glacier Institute to the Magruder Ranger Station on the banks of the Selway River, to the Jack Creek Preserve near Ennis and north to the Theodore Roosevelt Ranch at Dupuyer MT, organizers say there are many to choose from. These camps run from early June to late August each year.
The Montana Conservation Elders and First Hunt Foundation will hold the third annual Montana Matters Youth Outdoor Experience Banquet on March 13, 2025. Money raised will be used to fund outdoor experiences for children and youth. Beginning in 2013, local hunting and conservation organizations saw a need to provide support and access to both outdoor education and outdoor experiences. Coming together, the Youth Outdoor Experience (formally Youth Expo) was born. Since then, hundreds of children and youth have attended camps throughout Montana, at no charge. Learning
about such topics as backpacking, trap shooting, archery, wildlife conservation, fly fishing, and much, much more, these youth will become the outdoors leaders of tomorrow. Some former participants have returned to serve as camp counselors and mentors to younger campers. The banquet will take place March 13 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the Farmers State Bank Building at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton. Donor spots are still available and interested parties can sign up and learn more by visiting the website montanayouthoutdoors. org.
Simone Larson, Lacey Larson, Fred Upchurch, Lincoln Larson, Jim Kalkofen, Tom Powers, Easton Fryer, Laura Lindlaub and Sara Fryer. Montana Matters Youth Outdoor Experience representetives receive check from Ravalli Electric Co-Op. Photo courtesy Melissa Greenwood, Ravalli Elctric Co-Op.
Carol Ann Patrick Turnupseed Shipman
Carol Ann Patrick Turnupseed Shipman, age 88, of Big Timber, MT, formerly of Hamilton, MT, died on Sunday, December 15, 2024 at the Pioneer Medical Center. Carol had been a resident of the PMC’s long term care unit for three months and the assisted living facility for the previous five months.
Carol was born July 26, 1936, in Everett, Washington. She was the eldest and only daughter born to James M. Patrick and Nadine A. (Pollock) Patrick. Carol had three brothers, James Richard, Michael, and Scott. Carol graduated from Everett High School in 1954. After graduation she worked in Seattle for a time, then worked in Everett for West Coast Telephone Company, which later became General Telephone Co.
Carol married Dale W. Turnupseed and from this union came two daughters, Cheri and Kimberly. They spent some time early in their marriage living in Tokeland, WA, where Dale was stationed in the US Coast Guard. After his service they returned to Everett. Carol and Dale divorced in 1976. Carol began her career in banking as an operations manager.
In July 1986 Carol married James E Shipman. This union brought a stepson, Brian, and stepdaughter, Diane. Carol and Jim lived in Mukilteo,
WA, before moving to Hamilton, Montana in 1993. Carol and Jim had a full life which included many adventures. They traveled extensively whether just a “Sunday drive” or much farther destinations by auto, plane, cruise ship, or the many miles traveled in their motorhome. In 2020, they moved to Big Timber, MT to be close to family. Jim died in 2021.
Carol was fully engaged in life and connecting with people. She enjoyed exercising her mind with reading, word puzzles and games. She was convinced it would keep her mind sharp, which it did. She was frequently found at a bridge table playing cards and visiting with friends. She volunteered in many ways. She was a detail and task oriented person whose assistance was valued. An avid reader, she especially enjoyed volunteering at the Bitterroot Public Library. Carol volunteered at the hospital, drove cancer patients to out-of-town treatments, was a member of her church altar guild, and a member of PEO. Carol was adept and prolific at fiber arts, especially quilting, sewing, knitting, and crocheting.
Carol was preceded in death by her husband, Jim, her parents, and her brothers, James Richard Patrick and Michael Patrick. She is survived by her brother, Scott (Sharon) Patrick, Lake Chelan, WA.
Danielle Katherine Corona
On November 17, 2024, the beautiful, talented and thriving Danielle Katherine Corona, 36, unexpectedly lost her life, along with her dog, Louie, her most favorite companion, while she was driving home to Bismarck, ND, going east on I-90, when she was hit by an intoxicated driver going the wrong way on the interstate.
This wonderful woman, Danielle, was born on February 8, 1988 to parents Larry and Marie Corona in Nashua, New Hampshire. She arrived in this world two months earlier than planned, setting the tone for all those who would come to know her, that she went where she wanted, when she wanted to. Danielle lived the first seven years of her life in Amherst, New Hampshire, with her hard working and doting parents and her enthusiastic and protective older sister, Jessica Bras. She loved playing in the snow, collecting rocks and doing everything and anything her sister wanted to do. In 1995, her family moved across the country to Townsend, Montana, where Danielle spent her elementary years exploring the wonders of her new surroundings. Whether that meant going on long drives with her father or showing her horse in 4H and winning first place (purple ribbon), or playing fiddle/violin, she was ready to take it all in. In 2002, Danielle moved with her family to Victor, MT, where she spent the remainder of her adolescence. Her high school passion was Media Arts, and she was involved with writing the screenplay, directing, producing and editing her production of the movie “Soul Sight” which she co-wrote and also acted in. Danielle graduated from Corvallis High School in 2006, taking with her a love of learning and friendships that would continue throughout her life span. She started college at the University of Montana, and attended for over a year before the world outside of the state she had grown up in called to her. In 2008, Danielle set out for the exciting and unknown possibilities of the Pacific Northwest. She moved in with her sister in Vancouver, WA and went to Clark College to get her certification and credentials in phlebotomy. She began as a Phlebotomist at Portland Adventist before transitioning over to Kaiser Permanente, where she stayed until 2020, leaving only because she wanted to attend Portland State University full time. The last few years of the time she spent in Vancouver was as a full time student at PSU, graduating with honors in
June of 2022 and receiving a bachelor’s degree in Geology-Hydrology and Water Resources Sciences.
In August 2022, Danielle moved to Bismarck, ND where she started her dream career as an esteemed Geologist at the North Dakota Department of Water Resources. She remained with DWR for almost two years before finding a different opportunity with Barr Engineering in April 2024. She worked in the Assessment & Remediation division where she performed soil logging, soil and groundwater sampling, Phase I and II Environmental Assessments, generated cross sections and oversaw well installations. After moving to North Dakota, Danielle rescued her amazing cattle dog mix, Louie, and purchased her first home. She loved doing renovations herself and sharing with family and friends all her projects and ideas she had on the horizon. Danielle had the type of laugh that could make even the most stoic laugh with her. As a spirited conversationalist, she had the ability to breathe the life into the dullest of times. She had a passion for learning and her determination and drive was envied by most. Once Danielle set her mind on a new experience, skill or adventure, she would follow through; her ambition was impressive and inspiring.
Danielle’s sense of humor was infectious, albeit dark. She lived her life filled with laughter, games and a hunger for exploration, taking up things like Japanese, long distance running, Krav Maga, hiking, backpacking and paddle boarding, just to name a few. It was normal to find her trying out some new type of yoga or studying with metal music raging in the background.
Even dogs knew how special she was, leaving their own person to be by her side. She had a gift and a love for them, always with her anywhere from a difficult hike to simple drive to the store. Danielle could turn heads, whether it was to her beauty or in the aggressive manner in which she mowed the lawn. She loved the color black, Thai food and port; tie the three together for perfection. Favorite nights were enjoyed with puppies, a drink and laughter under the stars.
If you were fortunate enough to have known her, you knew her very presence was magical. Time with Danielle was time well spent. She was easy to love, the type of sister, daughter and friend everyone wishes they had. She was taken far too soon
Mary Lois Thompson
Mary Lois Thompson, 72, passed away on December 15, 2024, after a courageous battle with cancer. She was surrounded by her family, both in presence and in spirit, as she left this world peacefully.
Mary was born on February 5, 1952, at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland, to Robert and Alberta Weaver. The youngest of five children and the only girl, Mary grew up in Richmond, Indiana, before moving to Missoula, Montana, in 1968.
While attending Sentinel High School, Mary met the love of her life, Gayle Thompson. The two were married on her 19th birthday, February 5, 1971, in Missoula, embarking on a beautiful journey together. They raised two sons, Dan and BJ, in Lolo, Montana, where Mary’s warmth, humor, and dedication made their house a cherished home.
Mary worked for the Montana University System, where she built a fulfilling career and often spoke fondly of her colleagues and the friendships she formed. After her retirement, she and Gayle embraced the RV lifestyle, traveling extensively, making new friends, and collecting countless memories along the way. In time, they settled in Casa Grande, Arizona, where they enjoyed several years of sunshine
Carol leaves behind her two daughters, Cheri (Monte) Fjare, Big Timber, MT, and Kimberly (Danny) Thompson, Lake Stevens, WA; her stepson Brian (Rosie) Shipman, and stepdaughter Diane (Charlie) Wescovich, Liberty Lake, WA. Eight grandchildren have cherished memories of their grandmother: Kari McGonigal (Jason Crosby), Marysville, WA; Kristina (Lee) Graham, Monroe, WA; Benjamin Fjare, Bozeman, MT; Jacob Fjare, Chicago, IL; Jamie Shipman, Spokane, WA; Zach (Elie) Shipman, Spokane, WA; Aaron Wescovich, Liberty Lake, WA; Taylor Wescovich, US Navy, Guam. Carol also leaves behind eight great grandchildren.
A celebration of life will be held at 1 p.m. on Friday, December 27, 2024 at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 402 Hooper St, Big Timber, with a reception to follow at St. Mark’s Dallman Hall.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the charity of your choice; to the Michael J. Fox Foundation, PO Box 5014, Hagerstown, MD 21741-5014 or online at www.michaeljfox.org; to St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, PO Box 626, Big Timber, MT 59011; or to Hearts and Hands Hospice, PO Box 1337, Big Timber, MT 59011.
To leave condolences for the family, please visit www.stenbergfuneralhome.com
and will be missed beyond words. There is an ache in our hearts that will never go away because this world is a lesser place without her.
So very special, beautiful inside and out. So deeply missed.
She was preceded in death by grandparents Albin Robert (Rob) and Evelyn Corona, grandfather George H. Copelin, uncles Patrick, Thomas and Harold Copelin, aunt Katherine Copelin Gonzales and uncle James Nelson, and Rev. Joseph L. Byrne of Holy Cross in Townsend, MT.
Danielle is survived by her father Larry Corona, her mother Marie Corona, her sister Jessica Bras, her grandmother Ann Copelin and aunts Rita Jackson and Roberta Corbinand, uncles Alan, Daniel and Timothy Copelin, uncle Pete Gonzales, many cousins, nieces and nephews.
A Funeral Mass will be held on Thursday, May 24, 2024 at 11:00 AM at St. Francis Catholic Church in Hamilton, followed by the inurnment. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory is honored to care for Ms. Corona. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
and relaxation before returning to Montana to be closer to family.
Mary was passionate about her hobbies, which brought her great joy throughout her life. She loved rock cutting, attending live concerts, and going for long drives in the mountains, where she felt a deep connection to the beauty of nature.
Mary will be remembered for her kindness, resilience, and unwavering devotion to her family. Throughout her treatment, she always had a positive outlook and an unwavering kindness. She will be greatly missed.
Mary is preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Alberta Weaver, and her brother, James Weaver. She is survived by her loving husband, Gayle; sons Dan (Dawn) and BJ (Jesse); her grandchildren Kris Mejia, Steven Thompson, Kyrynn Meeder-Thompson, Sidney Thompson, and Kaidyn McIntosh; great-grandson, Jayden; siblings Bob Weaver (Jenny), David Weaver (Linda), and Andy Weaver (Peggy); extended family, and many dear friends.
A celebration of Mary’s life will be held on February 1, 2025. Mary’s family would like to thank all who shared in her life and brought joy to her journey. She will be deeply missed and forever loved.
Sharon Marie Edens Eddy
Sharon Marie Edens Eddy passed peacefully at home on December 14, 2024, from natural causes. She was born to Jess and Frances Edens on September 15, 1948, in Hamilton MT. She was orphaned at a young age and faced many challenges growing up, but her faith in God sustained her.
She is survived by her loving husband, William “Bill” Eddy. Bill and Sharon were neighbors growing up, but life took them in different directions. They reconnected later in life and were happily married for 26 years.
Sharon had three children, Kimberley Mills, Chance Mills, and Zachary Mills. She is preceded in death by Zachary Mills, who passed in October of 2003.
Sharon always had a love for God and found wonderful fellowship at Crosspoint Church in Corvallis MT. Their love and support for Sharon and the family during this difficult time has been a tremendous blessing to us all.
Sharon loved all things gardening and even had a greenhouse named Sharon’s Bloomers. She often took flower bouquets to bless family and
Glen Douglas Singleton Jr.
A native of Baton Rouge, LA, Glen Douglas Singleton Jr. passed away on December 14, 2024 while working on his property in Hamilton, MT where he resided. He was 73. Glen was a devout outdoorsman, homesteader, and a retired welder. He is survived by his two children, Richard (Ashley) Singleton, and Randi (Matt) Foval, brothers, John (Debbie) Singleton, and Charles
Death Notices
(Alicia) Singleton and by his five grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Christy Lynn Singleton, and parents Glen and Betty Nurdin Singleton. A private memorial will take place at a later date. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Ms. Corona. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
friends, and even enjoyed decorating the church with flowers for service. She loved playing games, camping, and spending time visiting with family and friends. She was blessed with two grandkids, Jaron Mills and Zachary Mills, and two great grandkids, William Mills and Zaylen Mills, with two more on the way! A Celebration of Life will be held on May 3, 2025, at 2 pm at Crosspoint Church in Corvallis MT. All are welcome. Brothers Mortuary in Hamilton MT is handling all the arrangements.
Patricia Fortune Missoula - Patricia Fortune, 84, of Darby, passed away Tuesday December 17, 2024 after a brief illness, at Community Medical Center. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Joshua A. Felker
Joshua A. Felker, 45, of Missoula, Montana, passed away on December 17, 2024. Arrangements are under the care of Garden City Funeral Home. Please visit gardencityfh.com for more information.
Brushia
Happy New Year!
Christmas doesn’t just begin and end for me.
It creeps in, softly at first, barely noticeable, and then grows larger, more present.
It’s a gentle presence - despite the noise and clang blaring from the TV set urging us to buy more, spend more, listen to jingle bells one more time every station break.
Fortunately I don’t watch much TV. My wife has some favorite shows and I watch football. Not as much as I used to, and that’s a good thing, but maybe a game or two a week if the excitement of the game exceeds my irritation threshold with the incessant commercials. The athleticism on display and the tenor of the game had better be good – real good – or I’m done.
watching them tour the village shops of a make-believe Bethlehem. And the day after we watched and listened to the Bitterroot Community Choir’s annual Christmas Concert.
Stranahan
Rather than sit still and ingest what networks force down our throats we’re more likely, at our house, to plug in a DVD or dial up something on a subscription service that we choose to watch.
I love music. And every year I start with a couple of favorite Christmas CD’s from a collection that would seem to others, but not to me, unwieldy and excessive.
But if I want to listen to Bach’s Christmas Oratorio or Handel’s Messiah, or listen to Kathy Mattea sing “Mary Did You Know,” or if the grandkids are over and want to giggle along with the Chipmunks squealing their way through “Here Comes Santa Claus” I have all of it ready at hand.
We don’t have a piano but we can sing. A few days ago I pulled out the guitar and a houseful of grandkids and their friends sang what was originally called The Guitar Carol, written in haste by a young church organist whose organ broke down – and he had to come up with something fast that the congregation could sing. The kids didn’t know the story until I told them, but when I started to play they all joined in, their soft young voices filling the living room with “Silent Night.”
The glow of Christmas ramped up for me then. We spent that evening
We saw people that we know – a school custodian, teachers, a dentist’s wife, a lady who works at the bank, a chiropractor, the guy who printed my business cards when I had the fly shop, a physician, a young woman in her middle teens who is talented beyond her years and her mother, standing side-by-side, exalted and inspired as they sang together from Handel’s Messiah – and with them, we were uplifted.
How to feel connected to a community: we felt it. And many of those people came into my life through the doors of my fly shop, or got to know me second-hand through this column. The readership has grown now as the column appears in the Seeley Pathfinder in addition to the Bitterroot Star.
We’ve attended the Christmas Concert, broken bread and shared life together in the years since. We will get together as we can all through the Christmas season, which for me will last until the snow melts – and I hope long after that.
The echoes of Christmas choirs singing in the vaulted cathedral ceiling of England or sound stages in the New
lives but who can do extraordinary things with and for each other when they get together. We have family, real family and family just as real and just as loved as our blood relatives among our friends. And I hope that the glow – the afterglow of a season that comes alive in our hearts once a year – will last, if we’re so blessed, until next Christmas.
And the kids who call me Grandpa Chuck: One of them, when he was barely eight, pestered his mother to stop at the fly shop. He had one of those boyhood yearnings, or obsessions, to immerse himself in flies and fly fishing. Mom listened, and accompanied him and three siblings into the shop. The kids were lively, interested, curious about everything, but self-controlled (with just a few quiet directions from mama,) and respectful. And delightful. Before they left each one had tied a fly.
Today their friends join them at our house or on fishing trips. I wouldn’t know any of them if they hadn’t walked into the fly shop that day several years ago.
world will linger around our house for at least another month – along with Alabama singing about “Joseph and Mary’s Boy” and other gems from the CD collection.
And the glow and afterglow this year seem somehow warmer, more real, more joyful, peaceful, and loving. Whatever the new year brings, we have community, not in some abstract sociological sense, but with real people that we know and see every day, people who seem to live ordinary
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PUBLIC NOTICE
Whittecar Rifle Range will hold its annual membership meeting on January 9, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at the Range, 578
Blodgett View Road, Hamilton.
BS 11-27, 12-25-24
MNAXLP
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County
In the Matter of the Name Change of Kathryn Joyce Snyder, Kathryn Joyce Snyder, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20240000412-NC
Dept. 1
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Kathryn Joyce Snyder to Kathryn Joyce Armstrong.
The hearing will be on January 8, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.
The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.
DATED this 13th day of November, 2024.
/s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court
By: Michelle Goldman Deputy Clerk of Court
BS 12-4, 12-11, 12-18, 12-25-24.
MNAXLP
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Melissa Ann Dye, Melissa Ann Dye, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20240000413-NC
Dept. 1
Howard F. Recht
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Melissa Ann Dye to Melissa Ann Wilde.
The hearing will be on January 8, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.
The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.
DATED this 13th day of November, 2024.
/s/ Paige Trautwein
Clerk of District Court
By: Michelle Goldman
Deputy Clerk of Court
BS 12-4, 12-11, 12-18, 12-25-24.
MNAXLP
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County
In the Matter of the Name Change of Tarcila Rangel Galindo, Tarcila Gloria Galindo, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-24-426
Dept. 2
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Tarcila Rangel Galindo to Tarcila Gloria Galindo Cisneros.
The hearing will be on January 2, 2025 at 1:30 p.m.
The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.
DATED this 25th day of November, 2024.
/s/ Paige Trautwein
Clerk of District Court
By: Catherine di Gleria
Deputy Clerk of Court
BS 12-11, 12-18, 12-2524, 1-1-25. MNAXLP
LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC OPPORTUNITY TO PROTEST TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP OF Montana All-Alcoholic Beverages with Catering Endorsement License TIN DUCKIE LLC (Alan Zeni and Chris Lynn, Owner(s)) has applied to transfer Montana All-Alcoholic Beverages with Catering Endorsement License No. 13-870-6513-002 to be operated at TIN CAN, 207 Main St, Stevensville, Ravalli County. The public may protest this license transfer in accordance with the law. Who can protest this transfer? Protests will be accepted from residents of the county of the proposed location Ravalli County, residents of adjoining Montana counties, and residents of adjoining counties in another state if the criteria in 16-4207(4)(d), Montana Code Annotated (MCA), are met. What information must be included? Protest letters must be legible and contain (1) the protestor’s full name, mailing address, and street address; (2) the license number 13-870-6513-002 and the applicant’s name TIN DUCKIE LLC; (3) an indication that the letter is intended as a protest; (4) a description of the grounds for protesting; and
(5) the protestor’s signature. A letter with multiple signatures will be considered one protest letter.
What are valid protest grounds? The protest may be based on the applicant’s qualifications listed in 16-4401, MCA, or the grounds for denial of an application in 16-4-405, MCA. Examples of valid protest grounds include: (1) the applicant is unlikely to operate the establishment in compliance with the law; (2) the proposed location cannot be properly policed by local authorities; and (3) the welfare of the people in the vicinity of the proposed location will be adversely and seriously affected.
How are protests submitted? Protests must be postmarked to the Department of Revenue, Office of Dispute Resolution, P.O. Box 5805, Helena, Montana 59604-5805 on or before January 4, 2025.
What happens if the transfer is protested?
Depending on the number of protests and the protest grounds, a public hearing will be held in Helena or Stevensville. All valid protestors will be notified of the hearing’s time, date and location. Hearings typically are scheduled within 90 days. A protester’s hearing testimony is limited to the grounds in the protester’s letter. Following the hearing, the Department of Revenue will notify the public whether the license transfer is approved or denied.
How can additional information be obtained? The cited MCA statutes are online at leg.mt.gov/bills/mca_toc/. Questions may be directed to Breanna Gill, Compliance Specialist for the Department of Revenue’s Alcoholic Beverage Control Division, at 444-0710 or Breanna.Gill@ mt.gov BS 12-18, 12-25-24.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BUDGET AMENDMENTS FY 2024 RAVALLI COUNTY
The BOARD OF RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONERS will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, December 31, 2024 at 9:00 AM in the Commissioners Conference Room at
215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana (3rd floor Administrative Center). The purpose of this public hearing is to take public comment, review and approve Budget Amendments for Fiscal Year 2024 by Resolutions.
If you would like further information on these amendments, please contact the Commissioner’s Office at the above address, by phone 406-375-6500 or by email: commissioners@rc.mt.gov BS 12-18, 12-25-24.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is Hereby Given that the Town Council of the Town of Stevensville will hold a Public Hearing for Ordinance No. 172 amending chapter 24 and establishing a no parking zone at and around 515 Main Street, Stevensville, MT and Ordinance No. 173 repealing town code sections 10-117 through 10-125 and adopting new town code sections 10-126 through 10-131 regarding land use variances.
1st reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 will take place at the 01-09-25 Town Council Meeting and the 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 will take place at the 01-23-25 Town Council Meeting.
Comments may be given on the 1st reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 orally at the Public Hearing Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6:30 pm and at the 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 172 and 173 at the Public Hearing on January 23, 2025, at 6:30 pm. Comments can also be given to the Town Clerk at PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, email townclerk@townofstevensville.gov or before 5:00 pm in person on the scheduled Town Council meeting day. Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271.
Attest: Jenelle S. Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 12-18-24, 01-15-25. MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARINGS BEFORE THE HAMILTON PLANNING BOARD & ZONING COMMISSION,
AND HAMILTON CITY COUNCIL
Subdivision Proposal 2024-01, Zone Map Amendment Request 2024-01 & Annexation Petition 2024-01 – A proposal by Bitterroot Stock Farm Holdings, LLC represented by Joe Dehnert of IMEG corporation, to annex tract of land, subdivide into 115 lots, and establish a zoning designation of Residential High-Density District / Planned Unit Development (RH/PUD).
The property is approximately 26.32 acres currently outside the incorporated limits of the City of Hamilton, located northwest of the intersection of Fairgrounds Road and Eastside Highway (State Route 269). The property is identified by Ravalli County Tax ID #610284 and Geocode 13-1468-19-1-01-27-0000, and is legally described as:
Parcel 4A of CS – 789939R, a portion of Parcel 4 of Certificate of Survey No. 743476, records of Ravalli County, located in the southeast one-quarter (SE ¼) of Section 19, Township 6 North, Range 20 West, Principal Meridian Montana, Ravalli County, Montana.
The purpose of these public hearings is to consider the proposed subdivision, zone map amendment request, and annexation petition.
The Hamilton Planning Board and Zoning Commission will hold a public hearing during a joint meeting on the proposed subdivision and zone map amendment request on Monday, January 6, 2025 at 5:30 PM on the 2nd Floor of Hamilton City Hall - 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT.
Hamilton City Council will hold public hearings on the proposed subdivision, zone map amendment request and annexation petition on Tuesday, January 21, 2025 at 7:00 PM, and Tuesday, February 4, 2025 at 7:00 PM, during its regular meetings on the 2nd Floor of Hamilton City Hall - 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT.
The public may attend and make comment in person, or on the Internet / by phone through Zoom. Instructions are available on the City of
Hamilton website at www. cityofhamilton.net, or by contacting the City Planner at mrohrbach@cityofhamilton.net or City Clerk at cityclerk@cityofhamilton.net, both of whom may be reached by phone at (406) 363-2101. Comments prior to the Planning Board and Zoning Commission joint meeting may be submitted to the Planning Department at mrohrbach@cityofhamilton. net. Comments after the Planning Board and Zoning Commission joint meeting may be submitted to the City Clerk at cityclerk@cityofhamilton.net. Written comments for the Planning Department or City Clerk may also be mailed or delivered in person to 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840.
Full application and related materials are available on the City of Hamilton website at www.cityofhamilton.net, or by contacting the Planning Department.
BS 12-18, 12-25-24.
MNAXLP
MONTANA 21ST JUdicial
District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Mary Susanne Gillham Rosett, Mary Susanne Gillham Rosett, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20240000442-NC
Dept. 1
NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE
This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a name change from Mary Susanne Gillham Rosett to Hatchet Susie Rosett. The hearing will be on January 22, 2025 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County. DATED this 9th day of December, 2024. /s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court By: Catherine di Gleria Deputy Clerk of Court BS 12-25-24, 1-1, 1-8, 1-15-25.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF SELF STORAGE SALE
in default of payment. The sale shall occur as an online auction via www.lockerfox. com on 1/2/2025 at 10:30AM. Unless stated otherwise the description of the contents are household goods, furnishings and garage essentials. Unit #126. This sale may be withdrawn at any time without notice. BS 12-25-24.
MNAXLP
William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Office PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840 Telephone: (406) 363-3181 Email: wmziplip@gmail. com Attorney for Petitioner, Tami Morgan MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JONATHAN WAYNE GUAHUNGA, Deceased. Probate No. DP-24-138 Dept. 2 NOTICE OF HEARING OF PETITION FOR FORMAL PROBATE OF WILL, DETERMINATION AND HEIRS AND APPOINTMENT OF PERSONAL REPRESENTATIVE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that Tami Kay Morgan has filed in the above Court and cause a Petition for the formal probate of the Will of Jonathan Wayne Guahunga, deceased, for determination of testacy and heirs, and for the appointment of Tami Kay Morgan as Personal Representative of said Will and estate. For further information, the Petition, as filed, may be examined in the office of the clerk of the above Court. Hearing upon said Petition will be held in said Court at Hamilton, Montana (205 Bedford Street, Suite B), on the 16TH day of January 2025, at the hour of 1:30 o’clock a.m., at which time all interested persons may appear and object. Dated 17th day of December 2024 /s/ Bill Nelson William J. Nelson, attorney for Petitioner Tami Kay Morgan BS 12-25-24, 1-1, 1-8-25. MNAXLP
Book Review
Booked for the season
“Vanishing Treasures: A Bestiary of Extraordinary Endangered Creatures” by Katherine Rundell
c.2024, Doubleday
$26.00 224 pages
Who doesn’t love a good hunt for buried riches?
When you were a child, tales of pirates and gold-filled chests caught your fancy, and every bare spot in the ground had potential. You might have learned, as an adult, to use a metal detector, or you’ve changed your definition of riches. Now you hunt flea markets, thrift stores or, as in the new book “Vanishing Treasures” by Katherine Rundell, you just look outside.
An ostrich awkwardly hides by putting its head in the sand.
You’ve likely heard that myth all your life and by now, you probably know it’s not true. Human history is filled with things that were wrongly believed or misunderstood through the centuries, but if our forebears had only looked, they’d have found greater (and truer!) wonders in the creatures that surround us.
They might have been more careful with our natural resources, too. So many of the world’s creatures are endangered or have almost nearly disappeared.
Take, for instance, the wombat, whose defense mechanism is behind it: his hard-cartilage butt can crush the skull of a predator. Or the Greenland shark, who can live to be six hundred years old or more.
The raccoons that turn over your trash cans are “explorers,” preferring new places to eat and hang out in. Giraffe mothers produce wax on their nipples to keep milk from leaking, and seal mother’s milk is more than ten times fattier than human milk. Lemurs fight by shaking their stinky tails at one another and staring menacingly. Fecund hares can “get pregnant while already pregnant.” Elephants are terrified
of bees. Seahorses and golden moles can turn rainbow colors. Other endangered creatures are killed for
their body parts but, says Rundell, “the sum total of” authentic, non-medical, animal-based “natural
by Terry Schlichenmeyer
aphrodisiacs… is zero.”
To save them all from total extinction, she says, “The time to fight, with all our ingenuity and tenacity, and love and fury, is now.”
Imagine a world without tuna fish, hermit crabs, or elephants. Imagine no storks or bears. Can’t do it? Then you need to read “Vanishing Treasures.”
Likening our world to a “Noah’s Ark in reverse,” author Katherine Rundell gives readers many good and fascinating reasons to care about these endangered creatures, and her words are urgent but she doesn’t preach. Instead, there’s wry humor in the way she presents facts, and that’ll make you laugh sometimes. The last chapter will give you pause. You’ll also be amazed at what you’ll learn about both the everyday animals and the creatures you don’t see often – information that’s shared in short, quick-to-read essays that present wide-eyed wonder at the astounding things those animals can do and the adaptations nature has given them. That makes this book an almost awe-inspiring celebration of animal differences, and a love letter to the things you won’t want to see vanish.
Certainly, animal lovers will want to read this book, as will anyone concerned about wildlife, conservancy, or climate change. For anyone ages 15 to adult, “Vanishing Treasures” is good as gold.
