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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!”
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Volume XXXV, Number 29
Extreme winds
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Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Assessing climate change in Montana and the Bitterroot By Michael Howell
Bitterrooters got a chance recently to hear the latest update from one of the leading authors of the 2017 Montana Climate Assessment, not only about how climate change is affecting Montana, but how it is affecting the Bitterroot valley and Hamilton in particular. According to some parameters such as average annual temperature and precipitation, Hamilton is trending at a different rate or even in a different direction than a lot of other places in the state. The Montana Climate Assessment (MCA) is an effort to synthesize, evaluate, and share credible and relevant scientific information about climate change in Montana with the citizens of
the state. The motivation for the MCA arose from citizens and organizations across the state who expressed interest in receiving timely and pertinent information about climate change, including information about historical variability, past trends, and projections of future impacts as they relate to topics of economic concern. Apparently, that initial public interest remains high as more Bitterrooters showed up for the latest climate update than the venue at the Forest Supervisor’s Office in Hamilton could hold. The update was being provided by Bruce Maxwell, Director of the Montana Institute on Ecosystems at Montana State University. As all the chairs quickly filled, people began lining up along the walls. While some sat on the floor up
Bruce Maxwell, Ph.D. front surrounding the speaker, the standing crowd spilled into the adjoining hallways to the point that some simply couldn’t hear and left. It was the Montana Institute See CLIMATE, page 3
Getting a handle on woody debris removal in the river
By Michael Howell
Wind gusts of up to 60mph pounded the north valley on Saturday, causing many downed trees, fences, signs and power poles, a flipped semi-trailer, power outages, and a fire near the Florence Bridge. Victoria Howell photo.
High winds wreak havoc
By Michael Howell
During last Saturday’s violent winds the community of Florence was temporarily sealed off to all traffic, according to Florence Fire Chief Charlie Lambson. At one point in the storm a power line came down across the highway blocking access into Florence. According to Lambson, all the back roads into Florence were also blocked by downed trees and power lines so that no traffic could enter for about two hours. He said it did cause a disruption in ambulance service. East of town along the river at the Florence Bridge, a downed powerline sparked a fire. The fire burned a couple of acres on the north side of the Florence bridge and on the west side of the river. The fire was mostly quenched by nightfall, although a tree did re-kindle and torch during the night. Lambson said it was a hectic day and the fire department responded to about 15 calls
for assistance. Only one was a fire, the others consisted of things like a gas leak, downed power lines and blocked roads, all mostly related to downed trees. Stevensville Mayor Brandon Dewey, who made hot chili available at Town Hall during the power outage, said that some downed trees knocked the power out for many of Stevensville’s residents for up to 14 hours. He said the Police Department went through the neighborhoods during the outage checking to see if anyone was at risk due to the outage. He said power was restored around midnight. According to the Montana Department of Transportation, the wind gusts caused a semi-trailer to flip near Stevensville, blocking all four lanes on U.S. Highway 93. Hamilton Fire Chief Brad Mohn reported that Hamilton did not see the kind of storm damage that occurred in the north valley. He said there were no fires reported and no blocked roads during the event. Wind gusts in the valley
County implements wage agreement with attorneys’ group By Michael Howell The Ravalli County Commissioners last week declared an impasse had been reached with the Ravalli Deputy County Attorney Association in contract negotiations and then voted to implement the wage portion of the last and final wage offer in the negotiations, but not the full contract, although Commission Chair Chris Hoffman said that he believed there was tentative agreement on the contract language outside the wages. In their motion, the Com-
missioners agreed to a 4.88% COLA increase for the RDCAA employees retroactive to July 1, 2019, a .25% base pay increase, 1% longevity increase and that the starting salary for a new employee shall not be less than $55,000 a year. Members of RDCAA recently filed a lawsuit against the county commissioners, claiming that the county illegally withheld the 4.88% COLA increase from their pay when it was being given to all other employees. See COUNTY, page 10
were clocked at up to 60 mph. But on the mountain peaks near Missoula the wind reached gusts of up to 100 mph, according to the National Weather Service.
Some federal, state and local government officials got together with some local fishing outfitters and others in the Bitterroot last week to discuss the issue of removing woody debris from the river. The meeting was organized and hosted by the Bitterroot Conservation District (BCD), the local agency that issues 310 Permits for doing any kind of activity that may disturb or alter the bed and banks of any natural perennially flowing stream. Other participat-
ing agencies included Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP), Ravalli County Flood Plain Administration, and the Bitterroot National Forest (BNF). All of these agencies have some jurisdictional authority related to the river, albeit a gray area in the law for some, when it comes to the issue of cutting up large logs that may be blocking the waterway. BCD Supervisor Kent Myers, who hosted the conversation, told the group that they were focusing on the upper West Fork,
but that the issue applies to the whole river. “We all know that there has been an ongoing issue with woody debris manipulation on the West Fork going back a number of years,” he said. “The issue is that this is largely unregulated and unauthorized work that’s being done in the stream and it’s not necessarily being done in a way that is beneficial for the function of the stream and the habitat in the upper West Fork. See RIVER, page 16
Mill Creek climbing closure in effect The Stevensville Ranger District has issued a reminder of the annual climbing closure in the Mill Creek area north of Hamilton to allow for nesting of cliff-dwelling raptors. Beginning February 1st, several climbing routes are closed to prevent disturbance to these known raptor nesting sites. On the north side of Mill Creek, the spring raptor closure will be the same as last year and includes the “Pie for Strength” climbing area. The closure will be expanded this year to include cliffs on the south side of the canyon due to the presence of
additional nests. (See map of the closed areas below.) Maps will also be posted at area trailheads and on the Bitterroot National Forest website. Forest Service Wildlife Biologists plan to visit the area later this spring to determine the presence or absence of birds using the nests. If the nests are not active, the restrictions will be lifted. The Bitterroot National Forest also reminds everyone of the continued moratorium on bolting in Mill Creek Canyon. The “No Bolting” moratorium prohibits the installation of any new
bolts and also prohibits expanding any of the current bolted routes in Mill Creek. Climbers should be aware that vandalism of bolts has been reported recently within the climbing area and they should pay close attention and inspect all bolt protection prior to use. Replacement of existing bolts for safety reasons is acceptable. The area is a popular destination for hikers, horseback riders, and in the last several years has become very popular with rock climbers. Forest officials remind climbers of their responsibility to regulate use and self-police
their activities by following the “Leave No Trace” and “Pack it In, Pack it Out” principles. Copies of the “Leave No Trace Climbing” brochure are available at all Bitterroot National Forest offices and at trailhead bulletin boards. The area will be monitored for compliance. To learn more about these simple climbing tips and recommendations visit www.fs.usda. gov/bitterroot. Click on Recreation and Climbing. For more information contact the Stevensville Ranger District at (406) 777-5461.
Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
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Climate continued
on Ecosystems, a statewide center based at both Montana State University and University of Montana, that took on the responsibility of organizing the MCA. It involved two years of work by university faculty and students, state and federal agency researchers, non-profit organizations, resource managers, and citizens from across Montana. Maxwell said that he participated in over 4,000 interviews over that period. The assessment begins with an analysis of Montana’s recent climate trends and how climate is projected to change in the future. This information is used throughout the assessment to explain the key impacts of climate change observed in recent decades and projected in the future. Discussion of climate change impacts on Montana’s water, forests, and agriculture are presented next. The assessment concludes with an analysis of major knowledge gaps—and thus areas for future research—related to climate change and its impacts on the three sectors covered. Some key messages from the report include: • Annual average temperatures, including daily minimums, maximums, and averages, have risen across the state between 1950 and 2015. The increases range between 2.0-3.0°F (1.11.7°C) during this period (see Figure II). [high agreement, robust evidence]1 • Despite no historical changes in average annual precipitation between 1950 and 2015, there have been changes in average seasonal precipitation over the same period. Average winter precipitation decreased by 0.9 inches (2.3 cm), which can largely be attributed to natural variability and an increase in El Niño events, especially in the western and central parts of the state. A significant increase in spring precipitation (1.3-2.0 inches [3.3-5.1 cm]) also occurred during this period for the eastern part of the state. [moderate agreement, robust evidence] • Montana is projected to continue to warm in all geographic locations, seasons, and under all emission scenarios throughout the 21st century. By mid century, Montana temperatures are projected to increase by approximately 4.5-6.0°F (2.53.3°C) depending on the emission scenario. By the end-of-century, Montana temperatures are projected to increase 5.6-9.8°F (3.15.4°C) depending on the emission scenario. These state-level changes are larger than the average changes projected globally and nationally (Figure III). [high agreement, robust evidence] • Across the state, precipitation is projected to increase in winter, spring, and fall; precipitation is projected to decrease in summer. The largest increases are expected to occur during spring in the southern part of the state. The largest decreases are expected to occur during summer in the central and southern parts of the state. [moderate agreement, moderate evidence]
Wednesday, February 5, 2020 Other trends and future scenarios include: Atmospheric CO2 concentrations Global atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations have increased over 100 ppm since Montana statehood and are projected to increase under both future scenarios considered here. Average temperature Since 1950, average statewide temperatures have increased by 0.5°F/decade (0.3°C/decade), with greatest warming in spring; projected to increase by 3-7°F (1.7-3.9°C) by mid-century, with greatest warming in summer and winter and in the southeast. Maximum temperatures Maximum temperatures have increased most in spring and are projected to increase 3-8°F (1.7-4.4°C) by mid-century, with greatest increases in August and in the southeast. Days above 90°F (32°C) Extreme heat days are projected to increase by 5-35 additional days by mid century, with greatest increases in the northeast and south. Minimum temperatures Minimum temperatures have increased most in winter and spring and are projected to increase 3-7°F (1.7-3.9°C) by midcentury, with greatest increases in January and in the southeast. Frost-free days Frost-free days are projected to increase by 24-44 days by midcentury, particularly in the west. Average precipitation Statewide precipitation has decreased in winter ( 0.14 inches/ decade [-0.36 cm/decade]) since 1950, but no significant change has occurred in annual mean precipitation, probably because of very slight increases in spring and fall precipitation. Precipitation is projected to increase, primarily in spring (0.2-0.7 inches [0.5-1.8 cm]) in the northwest; a slight statewide decrease in summer
precipitation and increased yearto-year variability of precipitation are projected, as well. Number of consecutive dry days Little projected change, with a maximum increase of 3 days to -3 days under the most severe scenario by end of the century. However, increased variability in precipitation suggests potential for more severe droughts, particularly in connection with climate oscillations. Number of consecutive wet days No substantial change projected. The analysis indicates that rising temperatures will reduce snowpack, shift historical patterns of streamflow in Montana, and likely result in additional stress on Montana’s water supply, particularly during summer and early fall. Key messages associated with these findings follow: • Montana’s snowpack has declined over the observational record (i.e., since the 1930s) in mountains west and east of the Continental Divide; this decline has been most pronounced since the 1980s. [high agreement, medium evidence] • Warming temperatures over the next century, especially during spring, are likely to reduce snowpack at mid and low elevations. [high agreement, robust evidence] • Historical observations show a shift toward earlier snowmelt and an earlier peak in spring runoff in the Mountain West (including Montana). Projections suggest that these patterns are very likely to continue into the future as temperatures increase. [high agreement, robust evidence] • Earlier onset of snowmelt and spring runoff will reduce late-summer water availability in snowmelt-dominated watersheds. [high agreement, robust evidence] • Groundwater demand
will likely increase as elevated temperatures and changing seasonal availability of traditional surface-water sources (e.g., dry stock water ponds or inability of canal systems to deliver water in a timely manner) force water users to seek alternatives. [high agreement, medium evidence] Rising temperatures will exacerbate persistent drought periods that are a natural part of Montana’s climate. Key messages associated with these findings follow: • Multi-year and decadalscale droughts have been, and will continue to be, a natural feature of Montana’s climate [high agreement, robust evidence]; rising temperatures will likely exacerbate drought when and where it occurs. [high agreement, medium evidence] • Changes in snowpack and runoff timing will likely increase the frequency and duration of drought during late summer and early fall. [high agreement, medium evidence] Maxwell, who grew up in Hamilton, also noted that the data from the weather station at Hamilton often shows itself to be the exception to the rule when it comes to statewide trends. For instance, while the average mean temperatures at most weather stations around the state show a warming trend, Hamilton and Big Timber don’t show any trend. They appear to be static. Maximum temperature trends are increasing across the board in the state. Another important trend for those involved in agriculture is the summertime minimum temperatures at night. Here, too, we see a statewide trend towards warming temperatures at night. Maxwell said this can be hard on cattle when the days get extremely hot. The cattle need cool nights to recover. Here again, Hamilton is an exception. Hamilton is showing a cooling trend for nighttime temperatures. Overall, according to Maxwell, there is no statewide trend in summer precipitation. But if you look closer there is a slight increasing trend in eastern
Bitterroot Star -- Page 3 Montana and a slight decreasing trend in the mountains. Hamilton shows no trend over the very long term, but looking at a shorter more recent span a slight decreasing trend can be detected. Maxwell offered a plethora of things that farmers and ranchers in Montana could consider doing to deal with these coming changes. Suggestions included: - Increase certainty by contracting for crops - Manage for drought by planting earlier - Recognize that irrigation cannot continue to be expanded - Plant multi-species cover crops and finish cattle with forage - Minimize use of nitrogen fertilizer - Collect monitoring data and try infield experiments - Consider switching to a more heat tolerant breed of cattle - Plant trees - Create local processing plants - Market products on their quality and production methods - Use intensive data to increase water and forage efficiency One complicating factor to consider is that even though the growing season is getting longer, the summers are getting drier and the water may not be available for late season crops. Add to that the factor that the chance of having a chilling frost has not changed. Another trend that Maxwell noted was the trend towards more
wildland forest fires. He said the science doesn’t show much direct relationship between forest management and this increasing trend. He said it had more to do with the overall rising temperatures with an increasing number of hotter and drier days. The days of extreme fire danger are on the increase, in part because even though the springs and falls are becoming wetter, the summers are becoming much drier. The vegetation flourishes only to be turned into a tender box in July, August and September. The projection is that from 2040 to 2060 winter average temperatures will increase from 5 to 7 degrees, mainly during warmer Decembers and Januaries. The summer average temperatures are projected to rise by 6 to 7.5 degrees, mainly warming in July, August and September. Maxwell said that there is a lot of misinformation out about climate change as some reports cherry pick the data, but they did not do that in this report. “We tried to give the fullest picture possible including all the data that we could,” said Maxwell. The 2017 Montana Climate Assessment [Whitlock C, Cross W, Maxwell B, Silverman N, Wade AA. 2017. 2017 Montana Climate Assessment. Bozeman and Missoula MT: Montana State University and University of Montana, Montana Institute on Ecosystems. 318 p. doi:10.15788/m2ww8w] may be viewed online at: montanaclimate.org.
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Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star
Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell
Opinion
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Guest Comment
Young people needed to maintain lifeline for Montana By Randy Laird, Manager, MedFlight Air Ambulance for the Billings Clinic I have been in the medical services industry for 34 years in Montana. As a nurse with the Billings Clinic, I started my career in some of the Clinic’s most intense emergency medical teams, working at both the critical care unit and the ICU in my first two years. I took that experience to the skies, where I served as a flight nurse for 24 years with the MedFlight Air Ambulance program, where I am now the manager. If there is one thing I’ve learned in this line of work, it’s that patients in rural communities would be completely cut off from the life- saving treatment if it were not for our network of airports and general aviation. Our program comes from humble beginnings. I started with the MedFlight Program in 1987, about ten years after the first medical flights with the Billings Clinic, but initially, we just treated cardiac patients in central and eastern Montana. Today, the Billings Clinic MedFlight team is a regional provider, with a 300-mile coverage radius, serving parts of Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, and North Dakota. We answer the call for any patient that needs emergency care, which varies from trauma to high risk OB to cardiac and neurological patients. With about 700 flights completed a year, we are recognized nationally as a leader in providing safe, efficient, and quality emergency transport care to rural communities. It is easy to understand the immense value that general aviation brings to emergency medical care when you consider some of the challenges that rural communities in Montana and the region face when it comes to medical access. For one, many of our smaller towns do not have the resources for specialized care at their local hospital or medical clinic, so the nearest facility to effectively treat more complex health problems may be hours away, in Billings or Denver. Take the town of Glendive, for example. If a patient is experiencing an emergency cardiac arrest that requires specialized care, they would be over 215 miles and about a 3-and-a-half hour drive away from the closest clinic that can provide it, here in Billings. However, general aviation aircraft allows that same patient to be transported in under 2 hours. An unfortunate trend in rural communities is the closure of community hospitals and the merging of public medical services between towns. In many of these towns, EMT’s and ambulance services are completely volunteer based. Once again, this trend contributes to the growing issue of care access, but it also highlights the impact that
Choose freedom
Dear Editor, To all my Democrat friends: Perhaps there was a time when the Democratic party had some worthwhile statements in their platform, or at least were worth considering. That has changed over time, especially the past few years, and has become an all-out socialistcommunist party instead of one that represents our American constitution. Since it has changed so drastically, perhaps it is time for you to change also. Maybe you have voted the Democratic ticket all your life, but it is OK to change. It really is alright to support and vote for the Republicans running for office. Thankfully, not all Democrats are believing the lies being pushed at us through main stream news, that socialismcommunism is a good thing. Remember how we fought against communism all these years? Remember the death camps, the Berlin Wall and complete government control? Consider Russia, North Korea, China, Cuba, and now Venezuela. Is that what you want America to become? Is that how you want to live? If you enjoy your freedom of the American way of life, you really have no choice but to change and vote Republican. Please, do open your eyes to what
small aircraft medical flights have in the region. Our flights can carry expert medical professionals to provide air transport care when needed. We provide ventilation and incubation, among many other lifesav ing services during the transport. With the benefit of time and level of expertise, the resource of general aviation for medical flights can be the difference between life and death. The Billings Clinic also utilizes general aviation for scheduled outpatient care through our Outreach Program. Spanning from Missoula to Williston, ND, we’re able to send specialized physicians, nurses, medical practitioners, and therapists to critical access hospitals and physician offices in rural communities to treat patients that otherwise would not have the access at their local facilities. Much like the MedFlight Program, our outreach team has grown and become a model for the rest of the nation – just this last July, we serviced 21 different specialties in the region. None of this important work would be possible without the vast network of airports in Montana. With over 128 public-use airports in the state, and several more in Wyoming and the Dakotas, our medical teams are able to touch extremely remote areas within a 300-mile radius to provide lifesaving services. Not only that, businesses of all sizes across our state depend on these aircraft and airports to reach far off markets and customers, fire fighters depend on this network as a base for their operations, and communities could not connect with supplies they need during crises if it were not for this critical infrastructure. The long story short is that while everyone knows the value of big airports, trains and highways, many may not know the value of their local airport or general aviation, including opportunities to work in this field, and unfortunately, that aviation is facing a workforce shortage across the board. Over the next 20 years, it’s estimated that we will need 212,000 new pilots and 193,000 new maintenance technicians just in North America. The shortage extends even further for women in aviation - women make up less than 10% of the aviation. Luckily there are many resources available to help raise awareness about the importance of this sector to our economy and rural communities in particular, as well as to encourage younger generations to pursue careers in aviation both locally and nationally. Let’s continue this trend and make sure we support this critical sector.
Letters
is really happening here in the United States. Thankfully, a lot of folks are realizing that those running for president on the Democratic ticket are determined to not only control the country, but to control you. It isn’t a question of whether or not you like President Trump. The question you need to ask yourself is whether you want to live under communist control or have your freedom. That is your choice. I do hope you will choose freedom. You will be glad you did and so will America. Grace Wilson Stevensville
Vandalism on Main Street
Dear Editor, On Sunday, January 26, someone topped and mutilated two of the locust trees that have graced our downtown Hamilton for at least 15 years. The two trees in question are in the middle of the first block of Main Street on the north side of the street in front of Tamarack Square. These trees are the property of the city and the perpetrators did not have permission to do this. The city has a lot of money invested in these trees. Tree topping (google it) destroys a tree’s natural grace and beauty, invites rot, encourages
Bitterroot Star
Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com
Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta TheBitterroot Bitterroot Star Star isispublished published weekly weekly at 115 W. 3rd, Street, Suite 108, The at 115 W. 3rd Suite 108, Stevensville,Montana. Montana.Subscriptions Subscriptions are are$40 $50 per per year year in in Ravalli RavalliCounty, Stevensville, County, $60 per out of and county, per year out of state. $50 per year out year of county, $60and out $70 of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.
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water sprouts (commonly called suckers) and greatly shortens the tree’s life span. The water sprouts grow rapidly to replace the vegetation that was removed so that the tree will not starve as it is the tree’s leaves that produce its food. This rapid growth is very weak and is attached to rotting stumps because topping cuts have a very limited capacity to seal themselves from air and water. By the end of next summer, these trees will be about as tall as they were before the vandals struck but they will be forever compromised. The perpetrators who ruined these trees should be held accountable. A bad haircut grows back but a bad tree cut is forever. Andy Roubik Hamilton
Keeping Montana history alive
Dear Editor, During the 2019 Legislature, Gov. Steve Bullock, legislators, and Montanans across the Treasure State worked tirelessly to keep history alive in a variety of ways. Senate Bill 338, also known as the Montana Museums Act, is best known for providing a portion of the funds to build the new Montana Heritage Center. But the
legislation also creates an ongoing historic preservation grant program for counties, incorporated cities or towns, tribal governments, associations and incorporated nonprofit groups. Feb. 28 is the deadline to apply for the first round of grants, which are administered through the Montana Department of Commerce and provide up to $500,000 for improvements to historic sites, societies and museums, which can include building repairs and renovations, security and fire protection upgrades, or even infrastructure work. The grants are meant to increase economic development, revitalize communities and enhance tourism statewide while adding jobs, expanding businesses and improving local tax bases. The 2021 legislature will determine grant recipients, with funds being distributed in 2021 across Montana. The money for the grants and for some construction costs for the Montana Heritage Center doesn’t come from general tax revenues. Instead, the law increases by 1% the state lodging tax, which will add only $1 per $100 to a night’s lodging costs. The new Montana Heritage Center will be adjacent to the existing Montana Historical Society building and directly across
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the street from the State Capitol. Its estimated $53 million construction costs include $10 million in private donations, with about $4 million already raised. Everyone benefits from this farsighted legislation, which hopefully will last into perpetuity. The Board of Trustees and Director Bruce Whittenberg appreciate both your support and contributions to this “Program for the Ages.” Thank you from the Montana Historical Society Board of Trustees. Bruce Whittenberg (MHS Director) Kent Kleinkopf, Missoula (Board President) Bob Brown, Whitefish Cliff Edwards, Billings Ed Jasmin, Helena Chuck Johnson, Helena Steve Lozar, Polson Douglas MacDonald, Missoula Thomas Minckler, Billings Thomas Nygard, Bozeman Sam Phares, Clyde Park Sara Scott, Missoula Jude Sheppard, Chinook Mike Shields, Helena Crystal Wong Shors, Helena Hal Stearns, Missoula
American tradition
Dear Editor, Is there any tradition more American than the renegade who does The Right Thing? I was hoping for 4-5 of that sort among the Republican senators in DC, so that the impeachment “trial” would have to include witnesses and documents and no longer be the sham it became. (“Okay, he’s guilty but not THAT guilty.”) Remember the 1939 movie “Mr. Smith Goes to Washington,” with Jimmy Stewart? It was based on a fictional Montana senator who went to our nation’s capitol and bucked a corrupt system. It ends happily except for the corrupt politicians. Can that sort of thing even happen here anymore? You can argue that there can be different opinions about just what The Right Thing is, but doesn’t it come down to either integrity or power and money? Yes, both are American traditions, but there comes a time to choose. Mary Fahnestock-Thomas Hamilton
Extreme platform
Dear Editor, Below is my version of a draft copy of the Democratic Party platform for 2020. The final version may differ in minor details, but policy statements by the Democratic presidential candidates suggest any changes will be
minimal. • Enact the Green New Deal because the concentration of government power in the hands of Democrats is the solution to the world’s problems; • Replace Capitalism with Socialism because equality of outcome is more important than equality of opportunity; • Medicare-for-All (including for illegal aliens) and private health insurance for no one because freedom of choice is not a Democratic value; • Sign the Equality Act into law and impose transgender ideology on everybody, an ideology in which a man is a woman and a woman is a man if he/she/they say so, regardless of biology or anatomy; • Strip tax-exempt status from churches, religious schools, and charities that act on their opposition to LGBT rights (e.g., don’t celebrate same-sex marriage) because religious liberty is not a Democratic value; • Pay reparations for slavery (even though slavery ended over 150 years ago and there are no living former slaves or slave owners); • Free college for all (including for illegal aliens) and cancellation of all student loan debt because hard work and personal responsibility are not Democratic values; • Guarantee abortion on demand right up to birth and end the distinction between late-term abortion and infanticide (à la Governor “Blackface” Northam) because life is not sacred; • Ban “assault weapons” and impose other restrictions on the Second Amendment right to bear arms (like in Virginia); • Repeal the Trump tax cuts, raise taxes on the middle class, and impose a new wealth tax on the rich; • Abolish ICE, open our borders to the world, end all deportations of illegal aliens, grant amnesty to all 12-22 million illegal aliens, protect sanctuary cities, increase legal immigration, and anything else to increase the number of Democrat-leaning voters; • Abolish the Electoral College, pack the Supreme Court with liberal judges, lower the voting age to 16, give illegal aliens, incarcerated felons, and ex-cons the right to vote, give statehood to Washington, D.C. and Puerto Rico, and anything else to ensure permanent Democratic one-party rule (like in California); • Any resistance to this platform will be blamed on racist, sexist, xenophobic, homophobic, trans-phobic, cisgender straight white males. Henry Fowler Stevensville
HOW MANY WILL BE IN HEAVEN? HOW MANY FIND THE WAY? The Bible gives us a clue below when it says that: “few there be that find it.” We might ask, how few? Matthew 7:13 Enter ye in at [through] the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way [road], that leads to destruction [leads to eternity in Hell], and many there be which go in [enter] there at [through it]. Matthew 7:14 Because strait [small] is the gate, and narrow is the way [road] which leadeth unto life [leads to eternity in Heaven], and few there be [only a few] that find it. Since the Bible suggests comparing a narrow way [road] with a broad way [road] to get the answer, let’s quantify this example. Narrow way [road] may be only about 10 feet wide. A Broad way [road] with numerous lanes going both ways, can easily be about 400 feet wide. FEW [1 in 40] there be that find it [eternity in Heaven]. This is only about 2.5% of the world’s population making it to Heaven. MANY [the other 39, or 97.5%] go to destruction [eternity in HELL]. With the number going to Heaven being so few, it is obviously incorrect to just “assume” that we are going to Heaven, or to “think” our good deeds have earned us a place in Heaven, in spite of our sins. It is because of our sins that we need a Savior to forgive our sins and take us to Heaven. Our good works do not forgive us of our sins. JESUS is the only way to Heaven, the truth and the life. Our salvation hinges on our individual acceptance of Jesus Christ as our personal Lord and Saviour. Do you want to be Saved?? If you say this prayer and mean it, you will be saved. Ask Jesus to come into your heart and forgive you of your sins. Declare, I want to live for You Lord. All other “ways” are merely man-made religions or denominations.
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Exodus 20:7 “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who takes His name in Vain. Psalm 139:20 They speak against you with malicious intent; your enemies take your name in vain!! Matthew 1:36-37 I tell you, on the day of judgment people will give account for every careless work you speak, for by your words you will be justified, and by your words you will be condemned.
Calendar
Hamilton Senior Center activities
Monday: Lunch 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Cribbage 2nd & 4th week, 1 p.m.; Toenail Care by appt. 1st & last week; Bingo 1st & 3rd week, 5:30-9 p.m. Tuesday: Toastmasters 6:30-8 a.m.; Western Line Dancing 10-11 a.m.; Clogging 1-4 p.m. Wednesday: Lunch 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Bridge for Fun, 10 a.m.; Bridge 1-5 p.m. Friday: Line dancing 10-11:30 a.m.; Lunch 11:45 a.m.12:30 p.m.; Pinochle 1st, 3rd & 5th weeks, 1 p.m. Saturday: Flea market, 2nd week, Sept-May 8 a.m.-2:30 p.m.; Special Bingo 1st week, Oct-May, 12 noon; Sunday: Bridge 1-5 p.m. For info: 363-5181.
Stevi Senior Center activities
Monday-Friday: Free coffee, 8-11 a.m., Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Monday: Bridge, 12:15 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday: Exercise class, 10-11 a.m. Tuesday: Quilters, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Wednesday: Paint with Sue, 1-3 p.m. (1:30 on 3rd Wednesday) Every Other Wednesday: Fiddlers at Lunch 3rd Wednesday: Special Birthday Lunch, 12 noon, with music. Blood pressures taken. 2nd and 4th Thursday: Cribbage at 12:15 pm Friday: Pinochle, 12:15; Monday & Saturday, 7 p.m. For more information call the Center at 777-5681.
Victor Senior Center activities
Monday-Friday - Men’s Coffee, 8 a.m. Monday-Friday - Lunch, 11:30 a.m. Includes main course, salad bar, dessert, beverage. Donation 60 and over $3.50, under 60 $6 (RSVP 642-3320) Tuesdays: Bingo, 6 p.m. Wednesdays: Pinochle with snacks, 7 p.m. Fridays - Ladies’ Coffee, 10 a.m. Everyone welcome. Victor Senior Center is located at 246 5th Avenue.
Florence senior lunches
Lunch is available through the Council on Aging for senior citizens and others in the Florence area on Mondays at the Florence Fire Hall. Serving begins at 11:30 a.m. Prices are: 60 and over $3.50, under 60 - $6.00. For more information, call the Council on Aging at 363-5690.
Lolo senior lunches
Lolo senior lunch group (60+) meet at 11 a.m. at local restaurants for food, friendship and fun. There is a $4 donation but no one is turned away. Congregate lunches through MAS (Missoula Aging Services). Call 529-1819 to schedule your lunch.
Golden Agers
The Golden Age Club is located at 727 S. 5th in Hamilton. The club’s business meeting is held on the first Wednesday of every month at 1 p.m. All members are asked to attend to review activities and plan new ones. Cake and ice cream is served. Card games (pinochle, multibid racehorse) are played on the 2nd and 4th Wednesday and 1st and 3rd Monday of the month at 1 p.m. There is a $2 charge per person. Exercise classes are held every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 9 a.m. Blood pressure is
checked every third Wednesday of the month at 9 a.m. Guests are welcome. The hall is also available for members to use for personal activities. A monetary donation to cover hall expenses is expected. For more information call 363-0142.
AA meetings
Alcoholics Anonymous meets at the following times and places: Monday: 7 p.m., Spirit of Christ Catholic Church, 5475 Farm Land Road, Lolo Tuesday: 7 p.m., St. Mary’s Parish basement, 333 Charlo Street, Stevensville Wednesday: Big Book Study Meeting, 7 p.m., St. Joseph Mission, 224 Linder Street, Florence Thursday: 7 p.m., St. Mary’s Parish basement, 333 Charlo Street, Stevensville Friday: Discussion Meeting, 7:30 p.m., St. Joseph Mission, 224 Linder Street, Florence 3rd Saturday: Women’s Group, 9:30 a.m., St. Joseph Catholic Church, 224 Linder Street, Florence Sunday: Big Book Study Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Victor Senior Center, 243 5th Ave. Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.
Al-Anon
Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the small dining room at the Living Centre, 57 Main Street. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 239-0878.
Narcotics Anon
Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).
Free Indeed
Free Indeed, a faith-based addiction support group, meets every Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Calvary Baptist Church, 230 3rd Avenue in Victor. Contact Donald Layman at 203-8579 or Pastor Jim Landis at 642-9849.
Gamblers Anon
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
Overeaters Anon
Overeaters Anonymous meets every Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Presbyterian Church (west door), 1220 W. Main, Hamilton. For more information call 3632512.
Morning TOPS
Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS), a weight loss support group, meets in Stevensville every Thursday at the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street. Weigh-in starts at 8 a.m. and meetings start at 9:30 a.m. Meetings are fun while learning to eat healthier and lose some pounds. Guests are always welcome. Call Becky at 642-6368 or Margie at 375-5439 for more information. Check out the website at www. tops.org.
Evening TOPS
The evening TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter meets every Thursday at 4 p.m. at the Kootenai Creek Village Clubhouse. For information call Judy Burke at 777-2743.
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Saturday Morning TOPS
Saturday Morning TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets every Saturday morning at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, 200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton. Weigh-in starts at 8 a.m.; meeting at 9 a.m. Call Cindy at 961-0196 (leave contact message) or check facebook page at TOPS “Take Off Pounds Sensibly Hamilton, MT.
Exercise classes
The following sessions, all by donation, are held at St. Francis Pastoral Center, 411 S. 5th: Thursdays: Tai Chi, 4 p.m. Fridays: Tai Chi, 1 p.m. Indoor Walking: Mon-Thurs 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and Fridays 9 a.m.12 noon. Please log in, 16 laps is a mile!
WIC clinics
Ravalli County WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. Income guidelines are 1-$23,107; 2- $31,284; 3-$39,461; 4-$47,638; 5-$55,815. For each additional family member add $8,177. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Facebook; www. facebook.com/Ravalli-CountyWIC.
Florence American Legion
Florence American Legion Post 134 meets the first Monday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Station. Call Terry Wahl, Commander, at 274-4589 for more information.
Hamilton American Legion
Hamilton American Legion Post 47 invites all veterans and family members of veterans to the monthly meetings on the 2nd Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the American Legion Post at 322 S. 2nd Street.
Stevensville American Legion
The Stevensville American Legion Post 94 meets on the third Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m. at the Post Home on Middle Burnt Fork Road. A veterans’ breakfast is held every Wednesday at 9 a.m. at C.J.’s Den in Stevensville. For more information, contact Chuck at 253-380-7016.
American Legion Auxiliary
Fort Owen Unit 94, Stevensville, American Legion Auxiliary meets the first Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. Call Cheryl at 531-4132 for more information.
Addresses requested
American Legion Unit 94 is requesting addresses for those serving overseas from family and friends so that they may send Troop Boxes throughout the year.
Contact Carol at 406-529-9908.
Stevi VFW
The Stevensville VFW 1507 meets on the second Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Frontier Café.
Marine Corps League
The Marine Corps League welcomes all Marines from all eras, along with Corpsmen and Chaplains who have served with the FMF. The League is a national veterans’ organization that include members of all ranks, all MOS, active duty, reserves, honorably discharged veterans and retirees. It carries on the traditions of the Corps, support Marines still serving, and assist those who have left the service when needed. Meetings are on the 4th Thursday of every month, January to October at 7:30 p.m. for general meetings at the Eagles Lodge, 125 N. 2nd Street, Hamilton. Activities include Toys for Tots, Honor Guards for veteran funerals and Color Guards for parade events, rifle and pistol matches, and support of Marines and the community, and a Marine Birthday celebration in November. An SOS Breakfast and informal get-together for members, spouses, family and friends is held every first Saturday at 9:30 a.m. from January to December at the Hangar Cafe, Ravalli County Airport, Hamilton. It’s an opportunity to get acquainted, exchange ideas, and share sea stories from the past. For more information contact Meade Phillips at 520-9916386 or at USMCmeadeMCL@ aol.com or visit www.mclnational. org or www.montanamcl.org .
VA medical rides
The DAV Transportation System has a hub in the Bitterroot with rides available Monday through Friday. To book a ride to your VA Medical appointments, call Dena at 363-8396. Give at least 72 hours notice. The hub is always looking for volunteer drivers. For information call Dena at 363-8396.
Soroptomist
Soroptomist International of Hamilton invites you to join them at their meetings the first and second Thursday of every month, at noon, at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Soroptomist is an organization dedicated to improving the lives of women and girls. For more information, contact Dixie Dies at 961-4812.
Rotary Club
The Hamilton Rotary Club meets Mondays, 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. First Street, Hamilton. For information about Rotary, call 363-2960.
Lions Club
The Hamilton Lions Club welcomes you to attend its meetings the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month at 12 noon at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. The club strength – besides being low key and getting a lot done – is helping provide assistance for glasses and hearing aids in Ravalli County. Contact Dixie Dies, 406-3810922, for more information.
Stevi Masons
The Stevensville Masonic Lodge #28 meets on the first and third Thursdays of the month at 300 Church Street, Stevensville. Stated meetings are on the first Thursday at 7:30 p.m. and special dinners are on the third Thursday at 6:30 p.m. For information or membership email: stevilodge28@ gmail.com.
Victor Masons
Victor Masonic Lodge #43 meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. The Lodge is located on Main above Farmers State Bank. For information on membership, email plycoupe1936@msn.com.
Eastern Star
Naomi Chapter #19, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first
and third Wednesdays at 7:30 p.m. in the Victor Lodge building located on Main Street above Farmers State Bank, Victor. Leona Chapter #31, Order of the Eastern Star, meets the first and third Thursdays at 7 p.m. in the Masonic Lodge building, 115 S. 3rd Street (next to the Fire Station), Hamilton. For inquiries contact, email: teslrudd@gmail.com.
BPL storytime
It’s never too early to introduce your baby or toddler to the wonderful world of books and reading. Together you will discover the joy of songs, finger plays, simple books and bouncing rhymes. The toddler storytime for babies through age 2 meets every Wednesday at 10:30 a.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Toddler storytime lasts approximately 45 minutes. For more information, call 363-1670.
DCPL storytime
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Main MainSt. • Stevensville 203 Stevensville• •777-0028 360-2661
Worship at 12:0011p.m. Sunday Worship AM In this Church there shall In this Church there shall be no outcasts. be no outcasts. Street, Hamilton. This knitters guild is friendly, fun, and includes knitters of all levels, from beginners to master knitters. All are welcome.
Doll Club
The Bitterroot Blizzard Doll Club meets monthly, usually the second Thursday of the month, to share a passion for dolls, bears, toys, miniatures and paper dolls. Members rotate hosting the meeting so call or email for the time and location of the next meeting. Contact Kay Schrader, 406-3607214, schrader1501@blackfoot. net.
Learning to read begins before children start school. Your public library promotes early literacy and social development with weekly programming for children. The Darby Community Public Library offers a weekly Children’s Story Time every Tuesday at 11 a.m. for all children under five years old with a caregiver. Come talk, sing, read, write, and play at your library, 101-1/2 S. Marshall St. Call 821-4771 or email: staff@ darbylibrary.net for information.
Model train club
NVPL storytime
Radio Club
Story Time is an enriching early learning program for toddlers and preschoolers that takes place on Wednesdays at 10:30 a.m. in the North Valley Public Library’s Community Room. Each week has a different theme, and children can listen to entertaining stories, participate in fun songs and learning activities, and create a cool craft! Each Story Time includes a healthy snack and some time to play with new friends. Older and younger siblings are always welcome. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 406-7775061 or visit northvalleylibrary. org. All library programs are free and open to the public.
Sapphire Quilt Club
The Sapphire Quilt Club meets monthly on the second Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Stevensville Senior Center, 100 Mission Street. Join this fun group of people to learn about quilting. Beginner to expert quilters welcome. For more information call Anna Arntz at 707-481-3233.
Fiber Arts Guild
Big Sky Fiber Arts Guild meets the last Saturday of every month. If you are a wool spinner or work with fibers, contact Marty at 777-2421 for location or information or visit http://bigskyfiberartsguild.org.
Knitters Guild
The Knotty Knitters Guild of the Bitterroot meets every 4th Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. at the Yarn Center, 110 Pinckney
The Bitterroot Valley Model Railroaders (BVMRR) run their trains in the basement of the Kohl Building, downtown Stevensville, on the First Friday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m., or by special request. The BVMRR Club will be running trains every Saturday over the holidays from Nov. 30-Dec. 21 from 1 to 4 p.m. If interested in joining the club, contact Tony Oberting at 273-0006.
The Bitterroot Amateur Radio Club meets on the third Monday of every month at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton starting at 7 p.m. Come early and enjoy a meal and fellowship.
Draft Horse and Mule Club
The Bitterroot Draft Horse and Mule Club meets every second Monday of every other month at 7 p.m. at Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street, Stevensville. Members drive everything from mini, to mule, to draft horse. Haven’t driven but would like to learn? This is the club for you! Don’t have a horse but would like to get involved? There is always welcome help and there is always a spot on a wagon somewhere. Members do rides as well and have events scheduled throughout the year. For more information call Claudia at 406642-3477.
Three Mile bingo
Bingo is held every first and third Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Community/Senior Center, 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Proceeds go to build a new center. For information call 7773710.
Toastmasters
Effectively formulate and express your ideas! Bitterroot Toastmasters Club (BTC) meets Tuesdays from 6:45 to 7:45 a.m. at the Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N. 4th Street, to support personal development and empower communication and leadership skills. continued on next page
Professional & Service Directorytt
Page 6 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
The words we speak convey a great deal! Do you mean what you say when you communicate during a job interview or with your boss, coworkers, and family? Wouldn’t you like to feel more confident, credible, and concise in your speaking presentation? Bitterroot Toastmasters can help! BCT members are given opportunities to wear different hats and fulfill many roles. Visit the website at bitterroot.toastmastersclubs.org or call Mike Turner at 406-360-7262 or Jeanine New at 303-929-2430 for more information.
month at 1 p.m. at The Living Center Chapel (second floor), 63 Main, Stevensville to share your concerns and experiences with others in a same or similar situation. If you would like to attend, your loved one is welcome to visit with facility residents with staff supervision during the meeting time. For more information contact Kati Aiken at Ravalli County Council on Aging, 363-5690.
Clothes Closet
A Parkinson’s support group meets the third Monday of the month at 1 p.m. at Sapphire Lutheran Homes. All are welcome. Contact Susan, 369-0535, for more information.
The Stevensville Clothes Closet is a non-profit, free store that serves the people of the Bitterroot Valley by accepting donations of children and adult clothing, shoes, linens, small appliances and kitchenware. They then sort, wash and offer the goods free to the community. The Clothes Closet is located at Middle Burnt Fork and ALC way. It is open for shopping and for donations Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays from 1 to 4 p.m. The Clothes Closet is especially in need of blankets, sheets and comforters. For questions about donations or directions call Gail Fisher at 369-0394 or Molly Hackett at 961-4614.
Family Shelter
The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot meets on the second Friday of each month at 1 p.m. at Canyon View Church, 195 Skalkaho Road. Everyone is welcome.
Men’s Bereavement Breakfast
Marcus Daly Hospice sponsors a Men’s Bereavement Support Breakfast on the second and fourth Friday of each month at 9 a.m. in the Marcus Daly Hospice Dining Room. This breakfast creates a special opportunity for men coping with the death of a spouse or loved one to gather and share their journey of healing. Informal discussions are led by a trained Bereavement Facilitator and address such issues as dealing with grief, loneliness, forming new relationships, single parenting. A donation of $3.00 is appreciated for the meal. For more information call Marcus Daly Bereavement Coordinator at 363-6503.
Breast cancer support group
The Bitterroot Valley breast cancer support group meets the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Daly Leach Memorial Community Room, 1010 W. Main, Hamilton. All are welcome. For information contact Judy Rothie, (406) 564-8613.
Pregnant/new mom groups
Postpartum Support Circle and Baby Bistro (breastfeeding support) meet on the second Thursday of each month and a Prenatal Support Circle meets on the fourth Thursday of the month. All meetings are held at 109 N. 4th St. Suite 104 in Hamilton from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. For more information, call Sheehan at 6426527 or email bitterrootbreastfeeding@gmail.com.
MomLife
Bitterroot MomLife is a gathering of moms with kids of all ages, meeting twice a month September-May on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m. at Lone Rock Bible Church, 1142 Three Mile Creek Road, Stevensville. Come join in for “grown-up” conversation, brunch, activities, crafts, speakers, Go Deeper discussions and free childcare. For more info call the church office, 777-2592.
Dementia Caregiver Group
Are you a caregiver of someone with Alzheimer’s disease or other type of dementia? You’re invited to join in an informal group on the second Friday each
Parkinson’s support group
Suicide support group
A support group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month at 12 noon at Riverfront Mental Health Center, 209 N. 10th, Suite A (blue building), Hamilton. The group is hosted by Ravalli County Suicide Prevention Alliance. For information email: rwetzel@wmmhc.org or phone 375-4095.
NAMI
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) support group for families and friends with a loved one who experience mental challenges, meets the second Monday of the month from 11 a.m. to 12 noon at Cornerstone Church, 280 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton. For more information contact Donna at (406) 381-9884 or Arlene at (406) 239-1708.
Family History Libraries
The Family History Center has two locations here in the Bitterroot Valley: Hamilton and Stevensville. Come research your family history with specialists who are happy and ready to assist you in finding your ancestral records. They can also help you organize photos and stories about people in your family tree. The Family History Center has free access to genealogical sites. You are invited to come and have fun discovering your family history at either of the two Family History Center locations. Hamilton Family History Center Located inside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 401 N 8th Street Hamilton, MT 59840 Ring the bell at the WEST entrance for admittance (up high) Tuesday 11am-3pm Wednesday 11am-3pm and 6pm-8pm Thursday 11am-3pm You may call and schedule private or group appointments by calling 406-363-5146. Stevensville Family History Center Located inside The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 100 Middle Burnt Fork Road Stevensville, MT 59870 Ring the bell at the EAST entrance for admittance Monday 12pm-4pm Tuesday 9am-4pm Wednesday 6:30pm-9:00pm Thursday 12pm-4pm Friday 12pm-4pm You may call and schedule private or group appointments by calling 406-777-5018.
Volunteer opp
The Stevensville Clothes Closet free store is in need of a few volunteers to help sort, wash and hang donated items. The shifts are from 12:30 to 4 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays. Volunteers can commit to one day per week or all three days. If interested, call manager Gail Fisher at 777-5694. The Clothes Closet is a non-profit free store that accepts donations of clothing, linens and some household items and then offers them to the community free of charge. The Clothes Closet is located at 3862 ALC Way, off of Middle Burnt Fork Road in
Stevensville.
Three Mile Coffee Club Three Mile Coffee Club meets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For information call Colleen at 777-3710.
Volunteers needed
Volunteers are needed for the Victor Volunteer Fire Department support group. This group provides food for the Wednesday evening meetings of the Victor Fire Department. Support group members are responsible for one week per month only. What you decide to make is up to you, serving about 20 people. Soups, stews, casseroles, etc. and a dessert. Call Sharon at 642-3844 for additional information.
North Valley Library board
The North Valley Public Library Board of Trustees meets the third Wednesday of the month at 3 p.m. at the library at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. Meetings are open to the public and public input is welcomed. The agenda is posted on the front window of the library and on the library’s website at least 48 hours prior to meetings: https://www.northvalleylibrary. org/docs
Quantum Group
The Quantum Group of the Bitterroot is a group of ordinary people determined to learn about quantum theory. They study relevant material (no equations), discuss it and teach one another this most important field of science. The group meets every other Wednesday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Community Center in Hamilton. New members invited and welcomed. Visit the website at www//Quantumgb or e-mail blaise.favara@gmail or call 3630683 for more information.
Drum Circle
Join in on the 2nd and 4th Mondays from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Bring your drum, rattles, and other instruments and be part of the fun. No drums? No worries! There are instruments to share. Meets at The Center for Spiritual Life, 328 Fairground Road, Hamilton. By donation. For information, contact Jerry at 381-7220 (jelb229@aol. com), Facebook at CSLBitterroot or visit the website: CSLBitterroot.org.
Saturday bingo
Special Saturday Bingo is held every third Saturday of the month at Victor Senior Center. Doors open at 12 noon, play at 1 p.m. $1 per card. $1 admission. Must be 18 to play. Snacks and coffee available. Everyone welcome. Call Glenda at 360-3074 for more information.
Socrates Cafe
Socrates Café takes place every other Tuesday evening (May 14) from 7 to 9 p.m. in the meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library. Join in the philosophical discussions. Bring questions to be selected and discussed at the meeting. You are invited to examine, learn and think with others. Learn how others view the world. Together generate community, understanding and change together. Tea, coffee and cookies are provided.
Laundry Love
Laundry Love Hamilton, a monthly laundry event for homeless and low-income individuals/ families, takes place the 2nd Thursday of each month from 5 to 8 p.m. at Fast & Fluffy, 115 Pine Street, Hamilton. 3 loads per individual/family. Check in with a Laundry Love Hamilton volunteer to sign in and receive your washer card. All laundry detergent, fabric softener and quarters will be sup-
plied by Laundry Love Hamilton. Laundry guests must remain on site. Laundry Love Hamilton is made possible by donations, business sponsorships, fundraisers and volunteers. For more information or to inquire on how your business/organization can help, contact Laundry Love Hamilton by email: laundrylovehamiltonmt@gmail. com.
Elks dinner
The Elks Lodge serves dinner every Wednesday evening beginning at 6 p.m. The menu varies each week and the meals are all delicious. The cost for members is $11 and non-members $12. Coffee is always included. Come and bring a friend. The Lodge is located at 203 State Street in Hamilton behind Neff’s Flooring. For further information call 363-3031.
Nutrition classes
Are you interested in learning how to buy, eat, and live better? Ravalli County and the Montana State University Extension Nutrition Education Program is offering a series of hands on, interactive classes focused on basic nutrition, food preparation, and physical activity on a budget. The class is part of the SNAP-Ed Program (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education and provides a free 6-session series of classes designed for families and persons living on a limited income. The series of classes will cover topics including easy meal planning according to MyPlate, ideas for stretching food dollars, tips for increasing physical activity, and tasty ways to eat healthy. Preparation of healthy and inexpensive meals or snacks is a part of every lesson, and taste testing is included! Participants will not only gain valuable skills in providing healthy, balanced meals to their families, they will also receive recipes, fact sheets, and a free kitchen item at each class. Winter classes will be held starting in February 2020 in Stevensville, Victor, and Hamilton. To register for a class, or if you have questions, contact Jennifer Murrillo 375-6609 or Jmurrillo@ rc.mt.gov at the Ravalli County Extension Office. More information and online sign up can be found at the program website www.buyeatlivebetter.org or check out recipes and health tips on the Buy Eat Live Better Facebook and Pinterest pages.
Wed, February 5 College Advisory Council
The Advisory Council for Bitterroot College University of Montana will hold its monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 5 at 10 a.m. at the Bitterroot College, 103 S. 9th Street, Hamilton (Room 111). The Bitterroot College Advisory Council intermittently moves its meeting locations. Stay tuned to find out where the next meeting will be held! The BC Advisory Council is a public board and welcomes members of the public to observe and participate at its meetings. The meeting agenda and supplemental meeting materials are available on the BC website at Advisory Council Meetings or by calling the BC Business Office at (406) 375-0100.
Garden Club
The Stevensville Garden Club will meet Wednesday, February 5 at 1 p.m. at the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street in Stevensville. Members will hear about how we can help our feathered friends endure our Bitterroot winter. Becky Peters and Susan Nelson from the Bitterroot Audubon Society will tell you about some of the birds you could expect to see this time of year and how to give them a boost and enjoy watching them around your home during the cold winter season. The public is invited to attend. Call Colleen at 273-3973 for more info.
Friday, February 7 Pachyderm Club
The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, February 7 at 12 noon at The Frontier Café, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be Christi Jacobsen, candidate for Montana Secretary of State. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
Water Forum pint night
Join the Bitter Root Water Forum for a beer at the Blacksmith Brewing Company on First Friday in downtown Stevensville on Friday, February 7th from 5 to 8 p.m. Every brew sold helps support the Water Forum’s work to bring the community together for clean water. Raffle tickets will be available for a float trip for two with Eddie Olwell of Fishs Eddy O - Fly Fishing Outfitter and Guide Service. Tickets will also be available for the International Fly Fishing Film Festival on March 5th.
Father Daughter Ball
The Bitterroot Father Daughter Ball will be held Friday, February 7th from 6:30 to 9 p.m. at the Lone Rock Bible Church. $25 per dad includes food, dancing, DJ, professional photo and a rose for every daughter. Tickets at bitterrootfatherdaughterball. blogspot.com.
Fine arts show
The Hamilton Christian Academy will present An Evening of Fine Arts on Friday, February 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at the Assembly of God Church, 601 W. Main, Hamilton. Enjoy student art and music as well as the talents of community members! Free admission and light refreshments provided.
Sat, February 8 Adventure series
Valentine Crafts is the theme of the free adventure series for kids on Saturday, February 8 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Ravalli County Museum, 205 Bedford, Hamilton. Cut out felt hearts and make your own warm and fuzzy greeting cards to share with loved ones near and dear to you! Follow a stencil or draw your own heart shapes to glue onto your unique valentine gift. For more information call the Museum at 363-3338.
Ski Patrol Steak Fry
Lost Trail Ski Patrol, an allvolunteer first responder organization to the skiing and riding public at Lost Trail ski area, will host its 36th Annual Steak Fry fundraiser at Lost Trail Powder Mountain on Saturday, February 8. What better way to top off an awesome day skiing or riding at Lost Trail than with a delicious steak or hamburger dinner (including all the fixins’ and dessert)? The barbecue dinner begins at 4:30 p.m. at the lodge. You can also enjoy live music by Dan Dubuque, and experience the magical Torchlight Parade from the deck of the lodge at 7 p.m. Steak dinners cost $20 and hamburger dinners cost $12. New this year, you can purchase your dinner and beverage tickets online; log onto https://losttrailskipatrol. redpodium.com/annual-steak-fryfundraiser-2020 and secure your spot at this year’s Steak Fry! The Patrol is raffling two 2020-2021 Lost Trail season passes! Not only will you be able to ski or ride next season, these passes will be good for the remainder of the 2019-2020 season! Tickets are $10 each, 3 for $20, or 10 for $50; you need not be present to win. The Steak Fry event is the main fundraiser for the Patrol. The Patrol is 100% reliant on your generous donations to fund the purchase of medical supplies and to underwrite the cost of Patrol-
lers’ ongoing training. Because of your generosity, the Lost Trail Ski Patrol will provide well-trained and well-equipped first response to any incident at Lost Trail.
Sun, February 9 Accordion club
The Accordion Club will hold a Valentine Dance and jam on Sunday, February 9 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Sunrise Saloon, 110 Strand, Missoula. $4 members, $5 guests.
Community dance party
Do you love to dance but don’t get the chance? Come to the first Retro Community Dance Party on Sunday, February 9 from 3 to 5:30 p.m. at River Street Dance Theater in Hamilton. This is a free event for the whole family, in the tradition of community dances of the past in small towns all over America. No expertise required, just come and have fun with a fabulous playlist of music, refreshments and a kid zone to let the little ones roam! Try out the old fashioned “dance card” activity, and look forward to future events with themes, instruction, deejays and more!
Valentine dance
Five Valley Accordion Club will hold a Valentine dance and jam on Sunday, February 9 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Sunrise Saloon, 110 Strand, Missoula. $4 members, $5 guests. All are welcome.
Mon, February 10 Stevi school menu
Monday: Breakfast - Ultimate Breakfast Round, fruit, milk; Lunch - Turkey & Cheese Sandwich, peas & carrots, sliced peaches, dinner rolls, bread & butter, milk Tuesday: Breakfast - Breakfast Burrito, fruit, milk; Lunch - Chicken Alfredo, steamed broccoli, orange slices, bread & butter, milk Wednesday: Breakfast Apple Cinnamon Muffins, fruit, milk; Lunch - Shepherd’s Pie, mixed veggies, mixed fruit, dinner rolls, bread & butter, milk Thursday: Breakfast - Strawberry Cream Cheese Filled Bagels; Lunch - Breakfast Sausage, pancakes, tri-tater hash browns, cinnamon applesauce, bread & butter, milk Friday: Breakfast - Pumpkin Bread Slices, fruit, milk; Lunch - Sloppy Joes, fresh carrots with ranch dressing, pear slices, bread & butter, milk.
Green Thumbs Up Green Thumbs Up Garden Club will meet Monday, February 10 at 2 p.m. in the downstairs meeting room of the Bitterroot Public Library in Hamilton. The meeting is free and open to the public. Straw into gold? Adventures in growing flax to make cloth. Garden club member Karen Griffing will talk about growing flax at home for linen production, explaining the process and showing some of the tools used. She has been growing and processing small batches of flax in Corvallis for several seasons. People are welcome to bring any gardenrelated items to place on the free table. Contact Karen at 381-1395 for more information.
Climate change presentation
Dr. Steve Schwarze will present “Communication and Civic Action on Climate Change” on Monday, February 10 at 7 p.m. at the Daly-Leach meeting room, 1010 W. Main, Hamilton. Dr. Schwarze is a Professor of Communication Studies and Program Director of the Climate Change Studies Program at the University of Montana. He will talk about how people in rural Montana can help change the trajectory of climate change and adapt to the likely effects. The talk is fee and open to the public.
Tues, February 11 Youth Mental Health First Aid
A Youth Mental Health First Aid class will be held Tuesday, February 11 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street, Stevensville. Free registration with limited
Wednesday, February 5, 2020 spaces. Sometimes first aid isn’t a bandage or CPR. Sometimes, first aid is YOU. A young person you know could be experiencing a mental health or substance use problem. Learn an action plan to help. Anyone 18 or older can take Youth Mental Health First Aid, but it is recommended for those who regularly have contact with young people ages 12-18: teachers, coaches, social workers, faith
leaders and other caring citizens. Register for this free program online at bit.ly/2Qn13f2. Contact MSU/Ravalli Extension at 3756611 for more information.
Cardmaking class “Show Me Some Love”: Card making with Amy Grassey will take place Tuesday, February 11 at 6 p.m. at the North Valley
Public Library in Stevensville. Greeting cards are a multibillion dollar business with over seven billion cards sent in the US annually. Just in time for Valentine’s Day, learn how to create your own work of art to share with your sweetie. Class held on Tuesday, February 11 at 6 p.m. in the Community Room of the North Valley Public Library. Sending greeting cards is a custom that can be traced back to the ancient Chinese and early Egyptians. Messages of good will were exchanged to celebrate the New Year. Often greetings were conveyed on papyrus scrolls. In Europe by the early 15th century, people were exchanging handmade paper greeting cards. Beginning in 15th century Europe, people made and exchanged paper greeting cards-and Valentine’s Day cards, too. Advances in printing and mechanization transformed the greeting card industry using relatively inexpensive and affordable methods. The craft of card
making has a resurgence as people with allied skills choose to make handmade cards. Traditional shops have begun to devote floor space to these homespun works of art. Learn techniques, make cute cards, and laugh with new friends. In the class you will: 1. Explore the use of watercolor in backgrounds. 2. Use die cuts and stack them for depth. 3. Employ a glossy adhesive to give our card stock a liquid texture. Please register in advance. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information, call 406-777-5061 or visit northvalleylibrary.org. All library programs are free and open to the public.
Stevi school board
The Stevensville School Board of Trustees will hold a regular board meeting on Tues-
Bitterroot Star -- Page 7
day, February 11 at 7 p.m. in the Stevensville Music Center Choir Room.
Wed, February 12 BRHA board meeting
The Bitter Root Humane Association will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, February 12 at 5 p.m. in the meeting room at Bouilla, 111 S. Third Street, Hamilton. The public is invited to attend.
Thurs, February 13 Women Newcomer Club
Are you new to the Bitterroot Valley? Have you recently retired? Have you been here for a while and would like to meet new people? If so, the Bitterroot Women Newcomer Club wel-
AMISH SCHOOL BENEFIT Friday, Feb 7th • 5 - 8pm • Auction at 7pm St Mary’s Family Center - Stevensville
Chicke Dinnern
served 5 - 8pm
This trailer and shed are 2 of the great items to be auctioned off at the Amish School Benefit Also: New Horse Tack • Wall Hangings • Handmade Knife
AMISH BENEFIT
DINNER & AUCTION
Friday, February 7th Serving Dinner 5:00 - 8:00pm Auction at 7:00 pm!! All proceeds go to Stevensville Amish School Join us at: ST. MARY’S PARISH FAMILY CENTER 333 Charlos St, Stevensville
Menu - All You Can Eat
Grilled Chicken, Mashed Potatoes & Gravy Baked Beans, Tossed Salad EVERY ON W ELCOM E Dessert - Pie, Ice Cream No, Ch E! Donat arge, Lemonade, Coffee, Water ions, O n ly
The purpose of the benefit dinner and auction is to raise the funds needed for the local Amish children to attend their Parochial school. All of the auction items are donated with 100% OFF THE PROCEEDS GOING TO THE SCHOOL. Be sure to attend this event to enjoy a delicious meal, and take several useful action items home with you! To Donate Auction Items Call Jake 406-274-8348 • Matt 406-360-0884 • Caleb 406-552-7924 Questions Call David 406-552-3688 • Joe 608-293-4662 • Marcus 406-493-7484
r o f t i f i lic Ben
E L L I V S N E L V O E ST H SCHOISER A S R I D AMTION / FUN u P y t i n Commu
b
AUC
POLE
BARN FOR
AUCTION AUCTION ALSO INCLUDES: KIDS PLAYHOUSE FENCE POSTS / GRAVEL & MORE ! 214 2803
Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star comes you to their meeting on Thursday, February 13 at 10 a.m. At 12 noon, a potluck lunch will be held after a business meeting and two guests speakers. For more information call Bonnie at 716773-6106.
Selway-Pintler Back Country Horsemen
Do you love the rugged beauty of our Montana wilder-
Wednesday, February 5, 2020 ness? Does preserving our wilderness trails and making new riding friends sound like fun? Would you like to learn how to pack and go on campouts? If so, you’re invited to attend the Thursday, February 13th SPWBCH general meeting
at 6 p.m. Meeting will be held at the Bitterroot National Forest building located at 1801 N. 1st St in Hamilton. Entry is in the rear of the building. There will be the usual “trail talk” and discussions on summer projects. Valentine
desserts and coffee will be served. Guests are always welcome. Owning a horse is not required! For more information call Duane at 642-3932, visit the SPWBCH page on Facebook or at bchmt.org/ wp/spwbch.
Sat, February 15 Limbaugh benefit
“Fight Like a Girl” benefit dinner for Christina Limbaugh, a young local mom and nurse with Stage 3 breast cancer, will be held Saturday, February 15 from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Eagles Club in Hamilton. Live auction of a Traeger Grill and sculpture by Dusty Raven & Dan Towell, plus silent auction and live DJ.
Cowboy Ball
MOLLI spring/summer catalogs available soon! Go online or call today to add your name to the mailing list! (406) 243-2905
UMT.EDU/MOLLI FEBRUARY IS PET DENTAL MONTH
Please remember to buckle up & slow down on icy roads this winter
We would love to help restore clean teeth and fresh breath for your pets! Our dental cleaning and polishing process, plus fluoride treatment is
15% OFF during February!
Round up your friends and join us February 15th for the 9th Annual Cowboy Ball! Shodown will be playing great dance music at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton. They will be joined by Up N Smokin’ who will provide food and libations will be provided by Rainbow Bar. Participate in the feed bucket raffle, live auction, silent auction and calf-pie bingo, all benefitting rodeo grounds improvement projects. The night of fun starts at 5:30 p.m. and goes until midnight. Just $10 gets adults in the door, $5 for students and kids under 5 are free. Reserve a premium table for 8 guests - $250 includes entry and 16 drink tokens. Reserve a regular
Valentine’s
Make this a Romantic Night in with . . . Steak . King Crab Legs . Lobster Halibut . Shrimp . Scallops Fresh Chicken . Fresh Produce
Call the clinic 961-3077 to schedule an appointment for your dog or cat
406-363-1111
CLINIC HOURS 8:00-5:30 MON-FRI
Donna M. Lewis, DVM 1039 Main Street • Corvallis
363-1626 . 910 N 1st . Hamilton . rainbowsendmt.com
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 9
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Thurs, February 20 Trout Unlimited
s Day Valentine’14, 2013 February
Grab Something to Eat from our FULL MENU
GET YOUR SWEETIE A SWEET TREAT from our Bakery Case Check out our Daily Drink Specials Always Fresh Salad Bar Homemade Soups
Fine Dinin g • Gifts Jewelry
Be Mine
I’m ! Yours
ING ST RN
Enjoy it with a Cold Beer or Yummy Cocktail
AR
At the Thursday, February 20 meeting of Trout Unlimited, TU special projects manager Christine Brissette will present “What’s new at TU,” an overview of current and proposed BRTU projects. The meeting will start at 7 p.m. at the Hamilton Elks Club, 203 State Street in Hamilton. The public is invited to attend and there is no charge for admission. Bitterroot TU has been working to make our fishery - and fishing - better since its inception in the 1970’s. In 2017, BRTU’s on-the-ground restoration program got a boost with the hire of Christine Brissette, National TU’s Bitterroot Project Manager. In April 2018, Christine gave a program on a nascent set of fish screen projects and enormous progress has been made since then! Come learn about the projects Christine has been working
on in our streams, and hear what’s on the horizon for restoration in the Bitterroot. Christine will also talk about some of the impressive projects TU is leading statewide: mine restoration in Ninemile Creek, dam removal in the Rattlesnake, irrigation efficiency/fish passage improvement on Clark Fork tributaries and more. For additional information, contact Jeremy Anderson or Greg Chester, or the BRTU website.
MO
table for 8 guests - $175 includes entry and 8 drink tokens. Bringing back the ever popular “sweetheart tables,” - reserved tables for 2 including drink tokens for $75. For more info contact fairgrounds@rc.mt.gov or 363-3411.
CAFFEINE & CUISINE 777-3330 308 Main St Stevensville • 777-3330 www.morningstarstevi.com
Open 7 Days a Week!
Valentine Candy
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HANDMADE CHOCOLATES Subject to Availability • Chocolate Covered or Tuxedo Strawberries (subject to availability) please call ahead • Chocolate Covered Handmade Caramels • Brandied Cherries • Hard Candies • Truffles • Hand-painted Chocolate Valentine Candy • Sugar-free Chocolates, Turtles • Reduced Sugar Haystacks, Griz Claws, Nut Clusters • Cinnamon-glazed Nuts • Custom or Ready-Made Boxes
207 Main St . Stevensville
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Make it a romantic weekend in Stevensville! Stroll through
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Alpenstüble Inc. German Bakery
All you need is Love,
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Historic Bed & Breakfast All Rooms Private Baths Rates from $110
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Fabric & Yarn Sale Get Star ted on
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but some jewelry now and then doesn’t hurt!
201 W. Main St. Hamilton, Mt 59840 406-363-6236 www.mikesellsfinejewelry.com mikesell-j@cybernet1.com
Men are Easy to Shop For!
• Grills• Power Tools • Chainsaws • Paint • Lawn Maintenance • Gift Certificates
Evans
714 North 1st Street . Hamilton . 363.3351
Page 10 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Refer a Friend February at Iron Horse Athletic Club! IHAC members who refer a friend will receive $50 in Iron Horse credit, and your friend gets to join with no initiation fee.
County continued
The complaint quoted from the County Employees Handbook: “Ravalli County employees who are not subject to a CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) will receive the COLA amount set by the BCC.” The attorneys argued that since they had no agreement with the county yet, they should be treated like every other employee.
An attorney working for the county, Kathryn Mahe of Garlington, Lohn and Robinson in Missoula, responded for the county at that time, arguing that the County was not required to pay RDCAA members the COLA increase because the RDCAA and the County were “in active negotiations, including negotiations regarding the applicability of the employee handbook, the entitlements to COLA, and wages in general.”
Rapp Foundation grants available The Rapp Family Foundation was formed to support non-profit organizations in Ravalli County and has been gifting to qualified organizations since 1991. What has been referred to as the Regular Quarterly Grant will continue as it has. The maximum request for this grant this year will be $5,000. Qualified organizations may apply for this grant in each of the 1st 3 quarters. Deadlines will be the 2nd Friday in March, June and September. Organizations may request an application by emailing rappffapp2014@gmail. com a month before the deadline. Application questions for 2020 have changed so be sure the application you submit indicates “revised 01/21/2020” in the lower left corner. In an effort to encourage non-profits to work together the Foundation developed a Community Focus Multi Organizational Grant and a Community Impact Grant. These applications are accepted in the 3rd quarter. The new forms for those grants will be available about August 11th and the application deadline will be September 11, 2020. The funding for both these Grants is still to be determined. When you email rappffapp2014@gmail com, indicate which grant application you would like sent; the names are Regular Quarterly Grant (accepted in all 3 quarters), Community Focus Multi Organizational Grant or Community Impact Grant (accepted in the 3rd quarter only). No applications are accepted outside the grant periods indicated above or in the 4th quarter unless there is an emergency. Types of emergencies considered are: forest fires, damage to an organizations building, wind damage to areas such as playing fields and other destructive acts. If you have questions email Diane at rappffapp2014@gmail. com.
Have a Happy Turkey Open Valentine’s Day! Day From Everyone at the Coffee Cup!
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It is not clear what effect the county’s decision to implement the “wages part” of the Collective Bargaining Agreement but not the whole contract will have on the lawsuit. No attorneys from either side responded to inquiries in time for publication.
April Weinberger, MD
Courtney Shanahan, FNP-C
We care for the entire family, from infant to a senior. We put our patients first by emphasizing communication, shared decision-making, accessibility and continuity of care. We are your medical home, where all aspects of care can be coordinated in a warm, welcoming and familiar environment.
Now Accepting New Patients! Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Mussman:
(406) 961-4661 Corvallis Family Medicine 1037 Main Street, Corvallis, MT 59828
Bust Heart Health Myths – FREE Thursday, February 20th at MDMH It’s time to bust the myths around cardiology! Celebrate Heart Health month by learning more about taking aspirin, cholesterol treatment, the highs and lows of blood pressure, and more. 5:00 pm: Doors open 5:30pm - 6:30pm: Speaker Brett Mollenhauer, NP, Marcus Daly Cardiology and International Heart Institute
Protecting the Skin You’re In – FREE Thursday, March 19th at MDMH Concerned about a mole or suspicious spot, breakouts, sun damage, or aging skin? Want to have healthy skin? Learn about some of the most common dermatology conditions and what you can do to keep your skin healthy. 5:00 pm: Doors open, sample and learn about skin care products.
With the opiate crisis running rampant, families are looking for ways to help those they love who need treatment. Getting them into treatment becomes even harder if their loved one is not willing. This is when Intervention can become key. To learn more about successful interventions, visit https://www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/blog/intervention-101.html
5:30pm - 6:30pm: Speaker Angela Covington, MD, Bitterroot Dermatology for more information on all classes and to register visit:
www.MDMH.org/events
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Sports
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 11
Professional Investment Advice By Jean Schurman Sports Editor
Jim Moerkerke, CFP®, CWS® Senior Vice President, Financial Consultant
406-363-0266 or 1-800-238-0266 1711 North First Street • Hamilton, MT 59840
High School Association okays girls’ wrestling
At its January 20th meeting, the Montana High School Association gave the go-ahead for girls wrestling to be offered in the 2020-2021 school year. Currently, females compete against males in the various weight divisions. Depending upon how many more females go out for the sport, they may be able to wrestle against other females during the regular season but chances are, they’ll still be wrestling males at the local matches and tournaments. It is only at the state level that girls will be able to wrestle other girls and have a chance to win a state title. “It’s going to take a few years to build up so they’re (the girls)going to miss out on a lot of matches. We’re going to have to figure something out. Maybe they still wrestle in the boys’ brackets for certain tournaments but at the state, one class, all girls, AA, A, B/C, different weights,” said Corvallis wrestling coach Matt Davis. Davis’ daughter, Kiera, is a freshman at Corvallis. Her family has been very involved in the wrestling program for many years. Not only is her dad the coach, but her uncle is an assistant coach, and her grandpa is a volunteer coach. She said her parents didn’t really want her to wrestle because they were afraid that once she got into the upper grades, she would feel bad because she isn’t as strong as the guys. “But then when 8th grade came around, I convinced them to let me wrestle.” She said the first year was a little tough in the beginning with the boys. She said that her uncle had a talk with the fellows and now they treat her
Kiera Davis of Corvallis is introduced during the ‘Restling in the ‘Root tournament in Corvallis. Jean Schurman photo.
like one of the guys. They are very encouraging and when she’s been down a few times, they have supported her. Kiera Davis thinks there are many girls who would like to wrestle but just aren’t comfortable when they have to wrestle guys. She said she didn’t feel that way because she’s always wanted to do it. She wrestles at 103 pounds, which is the lowest weight class, and said that some of her opponents have only weighed 80 or 90 pounds and that has been an advantage for her. “My drive is just so out there to do the best that I don’t really think about the gender. Some guys, especially at the 103 class, a lot of the guys are only at 80 pounds, 90 pounds and so I have more muscle than some of the guys. But technique comes a long ways and it
helps a lot,” she said. Hannah Hurst is a 16 year old sophomore at Hamilton High School. She competes at 113 and sometimes moves up to 120 pounds. She began wrestling when she was in the fifth grade. “The main reason I wrestle is for my oldest brother. His name is Isaac Hurst and he just loved to wrestle from his freshman year until he passed away on Nov. 12, 2017. I wrestle for him because he loved it. It’s kind of grown on me and I really love the sport now. It just reminds me of him,” she said. Her brother passed away in the fall of 2017 to unknown causes. Hurst said she thinks by allowing females to compete, there will be many more come out and participate. She’s already seen an increase in the
numbers this year. Hurst began doing MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) and jujitsu when she was seven until she was in seventh grade. She said she’s always been into contact sports and with two older brothers and a little sister, there’s a bit of roughhousing going on all the time. When asked if she thought she would have an advantage next year against other girls, Hurst was sure she would have one. She said that she’s wrestled about nine girls this year and thinks there are definitely more waiting to come out. Hurst’s coach, Chad Williams, is also excited about the addition of girls wrestling. He said that Hurst has won a lot of matches and only lost one match against a girl. “I think she bumped up almost two weight brackets to wrestle that girl.” He went on to say there is a lot of interest when he mentioned it to other girls in Hamilton. “I think we’re going to see more girls come out. Hannah will be a leader and definitely be a state contender. I’m excited to see it.” Hurst concluded, “It’s exciting and it just shows your inner personality, and shows what you’re capable of. It proves to many people that if we really put our minds to it, we can achieve great stuff. I’ve seen many girls this year. I think we maybe need that sometimes too (to show how strong girls can be).”
Hamilton’s Hannah Hurst has won several matches this year and is looking forward to having more girls to wrestle. Jean Schurman photo.
Corvallis wins valley championship
The valley’s four wrestling teams competed at the ‘Restling in the ‘Root in Corvallis on Friday night. The winner of the event receives a giant tree root that has been made into a trophy. Each year, the winning team then hangs a smaller medallion on the root to symbolize the win. Corvallis won the event with a three-point margin over second place Hamilton. Last year, Corvallis won by one point over the Broncs. Florence was third, followed by Stevensville. Coach Davis of Corvallis said he credited Derrick Gasvoda Weisweaver with helping to get the win. “He’s been hurt and we weren’t sure if he was going to wrestle. But he wanted to because
it’s his senior year. He gave us a huge win.” Each win is worth up to 10 points if a pin is made. Weisweaver defeated Colton Frost of Hamilton at 170 pounds with a pin at 1:30. Tristan Davis pinned Colton Rice at 25 seconds into the match. Tristan Davis is ranked in the state and has a record of 26-1 this year. Coach Davis said all his wrestlers are peaking just in time for the Western A Divisional this weekend in Ronan. Williams said he was disappointed that the Broncs didn’t win but felt they wrestled well. “It comes down to who’s got the healthiest and most kids. All the teams are dinged up right now.” He said he likes this tourna-
Although it looks like Hamilton’s Cole Anson has the upper hand against James Wissenbach, Wissenbach got the pin. Jean Schurman photo.
Florence’s Luke Maki pinned Cadagen Wheat of Hamilton at 205 pounds. Jean Schurman photo. ment because it brings the valley teams together for one last time. He said they are all friends and with the post season next week, everyone is working hard. Williams said that the Broncs are waiting on a couple of wrestlers to get doctors’ clearances. Noah Hurst, at 170 pounds is a state contender. Kole Anson recently returned at 138 pounds and is also looking good. Florence has been hurt by injuries, especially with the older wrestlers. But coach Bryan Volkmann has hopes for his young team. He said Luke Maki, a 205 sophomore will make a splash. Maki pinned Cadigan Wheat from Hamilton at the tournament.
The ‘Root results 1-2 place matches 103 Andrew Carmondy Ham pinned Ashton Slate Bugler Flor. 113 Jesse Anson Ham major dec Johnathan Williams Cor 120 Kanyon Stocker Cor. pinned Logan Bratch Ham. 126 Dalton Weidow won by forfeit 132 Aiden Meinzen flo. pinned Jason Davis Cor 138 James Wissenbach Cor pinned Cole Anson Ham. 145 Triston Davis Cor. pinned Colton Rice Flo. 152 Zach Dixon Flo. pinned Dylan Jane’s Stevi. 160 Bridger Williams Ham pinned Tristan Rehl stev. 170 Derrick Weisweaver Cor. pinned Colton Frost Ham. 182 Derrick Saltzman Ham.
pinned Ben Holtzen Cor. 205 Luke Maki Flo. pinned Cadagen Wheat Ham. 285 Brock Jones Ham. won by forfeit 3-4 place matches 103 Kiera Davis Cor. won by forfeit 113 Hannah Hurst Ham. Won by forfeit 120 Oliver Post Flo. pinned Seth Allen Ham 138 Nate Davis Cor. pinned Jeffery Berryman Stevi 145 Ethan Cramer Ham. pinned Nate Broch Cor. 152 Liam Sutherland Cor. pinned Wojciech Goeiskie Stevi. 170 Aidan Tollefson Flor. won by forfeit 182 Jarred Weaver Flo. won by forfeit
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Page 12--Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
How to become a better fly fisher $100,000 in Farmers State
The secrets to becoming a better fly fisher are easy: First, and often most neglected, practice your casting. But don’t settle for repeating your same old mistakes; instead watch a few good casting videos on YouTube and follow some good models. A word of caution: Just because you see a fly casting video on YouTube doesn’t make it good instruction. So how does
Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan the beginner or an experienced angler know who to follow in order to improve? Google these names: Rajeff, Swisher, and Krieger. There are others, but you can’t go wrong with these three. There are two Rajeffs, Tim and Steve. Steve is the best fly casting machine ever poured into human flesh. His form is absolutely flawless. Tim is his little (?) brother. Both are excellent instructors. Their styles are different, but the mechanics of fly casting don’t vary with style. Doug Swisher is paragon of the sport who happens to be a neighbor here in the Bitterroot Valley. His approach is different than the Rajeffs, and transfers to practical fishing casts. Mel Krieger taught many champion casters at the Golden Gate Ponds in San Francisco, and his teaching methods emphasize the sheer enjoyment of fly casting. Pick a good model to follow, and get out there and hit it – even for a few minutes a day. Twenty minutes per session is enough. Do it as the weather permits until trout season is on full bore. Good instruction makes good casting Later in the year, when the weather is more dependable, you might want to sign up for some casting instruction with a pro. If you book a day with a guide, most are good casting instructors. Look at your results: If you’re casting better after a day with a guide, the guide did well – and you did well as a pupil. If there’s still something wrong, it could be because the
guide’s emphasis for the day was on fishing – giving the client enough instruction to put trout in the net is the overall goal. That instruction might include tips on mending line, tying knots, choosing the right fly, striking, playing the fish once hooked, and helping the client enjoy the total experience of just being out there – correcting the dripped back-cast would only be part of it. It could also be (and I hate to say it) that the client missed something, or as we all do, reverted from a good habit, temporarily gained, back into a bad habit that is ingrained. Trying to press through that bad habit usually makes it worse – and we all revert. Before the opening of a sportsman’s show in Portland a small group of seminar speakers were gathered on the casting platform, talking shop, trying out some of the year’s new rods, and having fun. Steve Rajeff was in the group. I hadn’t handled a rod in a while, and couldn’t get past a hitch in my get-along. I’d make a decent cast, and when I tried to push the envelope a little further there was a fault. On the stream it could cost me fish. It was part of my stroke. On my own I couldn’t recognize or correct it. It didn’t take me long, in the presence of the world’s best, for me to say, “Steve, what am I doing wrong?” Steve Rajeff watched intently for just a couple of strokes when I was trying my best and my cast seemed OK. Then he offered one simple correction. All-of-asudden my stroke became crisper and my casts sailed to their mark with less effort. I’ve taken that hint, and the way it was delivered, with me as both a casting instructor and a fly fisherman. I’m lucky: right place, right time, learned from the best. Before that day at the Portland show, Steve was in charge when I took my Certified Casting Instructor training with him. Moral of the story: A quick session from a pro, preferably a certified casting instructor, can correct a life-long fault and yield results on the stream. I’ll be offering individual casting clinics by appointment this spring. Bitterroot College fly fishing opportunities A reminder, if you haven’t signed up or would like to, Bitterroot Valley Community College will be offering a slate of fly fishing courses this spring. There will be on entitled A Friendly Introduction to Fly Fishing starting on March 10 and running for two weeks, four sessions, Tuesday and Thursday evenings.
Crossword Puzzle
ACROSS 1. Syrian bishop 5. Otherwise 9. Fundamental particle 11. Brad ___, actor 12. Coalesce 13. Actor Alda 14. American sign language 15. Like 17. Wing 18. Assail 20. Binge (2 wds.) 22. Washout 23. Niobium (abbr.) 24. Pouch 27. Doing nothing 29. Support 31. Gets older 32. Pine 33. Greek stringed instrument 34. Bolt
DOWN 1. Peacock blue 2. Hamburger rolls 3. Security 4. Artist’s creation 5. Government agency 6. Light purple flower 7. Hunt 8. Gas burner 10. Actor Michael 16. Squat 18. Silver (abbr.) 19. Near 20. Dumpy 21. Loafer 22. Selector 24. False bible god 25. Land measurement 26. DNA component 28. Compass point 30. Game official © Feature Exchange
We’re counting on good weather for two Fly Casting Clinics on Saturday afternoons, one on March 21 and another on March 28. There’s also a course I look forward to teaching called Catch More Trout. That one starts on March 24 for two weeks, Tuesdays and Thursdays. It covers secrets with dry flies, big fish on streamers, and effective ways to fish nymphs.
Bank scholarships available
2020 Farmers State Bank Scholarship applications are available beginning February 1, 2020 online at www.farmersebank.com under ‘Scholarship’. This year Farmers State Bank will offer ten $10,000 scholarships to qualifying seniors. Students may be either home schooled or from a participating high school in the Bitterroot Valley, Missoula, Helena and Kalispell. Preference for the Farmers State Bank scholarships is given to students with a 2.5 to 3.5
grade point average, and family income below $50,000. Eligibility and program details are available online. Since launching the program in 2001, Farmers State Bank has awarded $1,218,750 in scholarships. The awards are for $2,500 each year and renewable for up to three years, based on full-time attendance at an accredited two- or four-year college, university or vocational-technical school, and a GPA of 2.0 or higher, for the maximum award of $10,000.
Summer Youth Farm Internships available For times and enrollment information, call the college at 375-0100. Space is limited and interest is always high. Do it now. Fly tying instruction The weather these day is more conducive to fly tying instruction than fly casting. If you’ve always wanted to learn to tie flies or want to improve your techniques, now’s the time to sign up. I’ll be offering two basic fly tying courses starting next week. I’ve added a new wrinkle to these courses: live video. Judging from the comments from students who just completed the first round of these courses, the video tool is a big success. They can see exactly what my fingers are doing when I zoom in on the fly. Their flies, in turn, are the best I’ve seen from beginning students. The sessions, as usual, are fun. Each section of the Fly Tying Fundamentals course will last for four weeks and goes from 6:30 until 8:30 PM. One will start on Tuesday February 11, and another will start on Thursday February 13. Our weekly sessions for experienced tyers have been a longstanding success and I’m opening two new sessions. The sessions are informal and affordable: ten bucks for a two-hour Thursday or Saturday afternoon session that emphasizes technique. Space in limited to only six students per class to allow for plenty of individual instruction. Call the shop at 363-4197 with questions or to enroll.
Cultivating Connections is now accepting applications for its Youth Farm Internship program. This paid internship will teach you to: • Be a Change-Leader! • Be part of a team focused on food, farming, and community resilience • Learn how to grow organic vegetables • Learn Community Building skills • Make salads for senior citizens in our community • Be a counselor/buddy for kids with autism at Special Abilities Camp • Design and plant a demonstration garden to highlight
important aspects of organic gardening and farming such as companion planting, pollinator plants and beneficial insects, trap crops, and composting • Learn about herbs, herbalism, and natural remedies • Grow, harvest, and make weekly boxes of produce for families in our community. No previous job experience is necessary. 14-17 year-old students invited to apply. 10-12 hours/week in spring and fall, 19 hours per week in summer. $9.25/ hour. Visit www.cultivatingconnectionsmt.org or call MacKenzie at (406) 239-9859 for more information and an application.
Applications and information regarding the scholarship is available at www.farmersebank. com. The deadline is March 15, 2020, and recipients will be notified on or before May 1, 2020. Selection of recipients is managed by a third party organization to ensure impartiality. For more information, contact Sara Waldbillig, Director of Marketing, Farmers State Bank, 273-4495.
Ag soils workshop “Regenerating Ag Soil with Patterns of Diversity,” a presentation on the various organic ways of regenerating agriculture soil, will be presented on Saturday, February 29 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Corvallis Grange Hall in Hamilton. Topics to be discussed include revitalizing soil microbes and fungi, regenerating veggie soils, rejuvenating ranchlands, and using animals and plant biomass to restore agriculture soils. Invited speakers include Larry Evans from the Western Montana Mycological Association, John Brown from Charter Ranch, Steve Elliot and Lucy Brieger of LifeLine Produce, Leon Stangl, Yourganic farmer, and others. This is a free event and drinks will be provided. Contact Leon at 961-5452 for more information.
Crossword Answers on page 14
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the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 3rd day of January 2020. /s/ Vikki L. Williamson Bell, Personal Representative BS 2-5, 2-12, 2-19-20. MNAXLP
Dustin M. Chouinard & Rubber Stamps MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C. 601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 123 S. 5TH (406) 363-1110 Corner of 5th & State DustinC@mcpcattorneys.com Attorneys for Personal Represenin Hamilton tative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST pay. Apply at 925 N. First Street in JUDICIAL DISTRICT, RAVALLI Hamilton. Call 375-8637. COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of ROBERT DAY ONE 4:00-6:00 PM. LEE TOWNSEND a/k/a ROBERT L. TOWNSEND, Deceased. LINE NUMBERS GIVEN Probate No. DP-20-10 AFTER 2:00 PM. Dept. No. 1 2 per person. NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that FOLLOWING DAYS 9-12 the undersigned has been appointed REAL ESTATE– NORTHas Personal Representative of the WEST MONTANA – Company above-named estate. All persons owned. Small and large acre parhaving claims against the decedent are cels. Private. Trees and meadows. required to present their claims within National Forest boundaries. Tungfour (4) months after the date of the stenholdings.com (406) 293-3714. first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred . Claims must either be mailed to Wayne F. Townsend, the Personal Representative, in care of MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. ROOM FOR RENT - Bedroom I declare under penalty of perjury and bath, furnished. Rent negounder the laws of the State of Montana tiable. No pets. Victor. 642-6279. that the foregoing is true and correct. DATED this 27th day of January, 2020. /s/ Wayne F. Townsend, Personal Representative MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, PC /s/ Dustin M. Chouinard, Attorney for Personal RepresentaNaomi J. Cheeney tive Cheeney Law, PLLC BS 2-5, 2-12, 2-19-20. MNAXLP P.O. Box 212
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MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CHELLIS F. NEWGARD, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-07 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed Estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Roberta J. Burruss, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, to Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 27th day of January 2020. /s/ Roberta J. Burruss, Personal Representative BS 2-5, 2-12, 2-19-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KENNETH S. BELL, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-20-3 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed Estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Vikki L. Williamson Bell, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, ℅ John G. Bell, P.O. Box 210, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with
Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Joanne Saylor Warren, Joanne Saylor Warren, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-10/3 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Joanne Saylor Warren to Joanne Williams Saylor. The hearing will be on February 27, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: January 13, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 1-15, 1-22, 1-29, 2-5-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Cally Lyle Fryer, Cally Lyle Fryer, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-13/3 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Cally Lyle Fryer to Cully ADVERTISING Lyle Fryer. The hearing will be on February 27, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: January 13, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of
District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 1-22, 1-29, 2-5, 2-12-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Michael Robert Williams, Michael Robert Williams, Petitioner Cause No. DV-19-414/5 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Michael Robert Williams to Gage Alistair Foxlord. The hearing will be on February 27, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: January 21, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 2-5, 2-12, 2-19, 2-26-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF SHERIFF’S SALE SPECIALIZED LOAN SERVICING, its successors in interest and/ or assigns, Plaintiff, V. UNKNOWN HEIRS AND DEVISEES OF ARDYCE E. KELLEY; ARDYCE E. KELLEY, deceased ; JAMES RODNEY KELLEY; TIMOTHY ALLEN KELLEY; RAVALLI COUNTY FEDERAL CREDIT UNION; and all other persons unknown claiming or who might claim any right, title, estate or interest in or lien or encumbrance upon the real and personal property described in the complaint for foreclosure adverse to plaintiff’s ownership or any cloud upon plaintiff’s title thereto, whether such claim or possible claim be present or contingent, Defendants. Cause No. DV-18-68 Department 1 Hon. Howard E. Recht TO BE SOLD AT SHERIFF’S SALE: On the 12th day of February 2020 at 10:00 a.m. on the front steps of the Ravalli County Courthouse , 205 Bedford Street, Suite D, Hamilton, Montana 59840, that certain real property situated in Ravalli County, and more paiiicularly described as follows: Lot lB-1 of Amended Subdivision Plat No. 323, being a.portion of Lot 1, BIG CREEK MEADOWS , Ravalli County, Montana, according to the recorded plat thereof. Together with a 60 foot wide road and utility easement on the West line and a 30 foot wide road and utility easement along the South boundary of Lot 1-A of Amended Plat No. 193, and also shown on Amended Plat No. 323. KNOWN AS 124 Tarkas Lane, Victor, MT 59875 . Dated this 7th day of January, 2020. STEPHEN HOLTON Sheriff of Ravalli County, Montana By: Steve Holton Printed Name: Stephen Holton BS 1-22, 1-29, 2-5-20. MNAXLP Benjamin J. Mann , 33833674 Halliday, Watkins & Mann, P.C. 376 East 400 South, Suite 300 Salt Lake City, Utah 84111 Phone: (801) 355-2886 Facsimile: (801) 328-9714 benjamin @HWMLawFirm.com Attorney for Plaintiff File Number: 54675 MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY
tion,
U.S. Bank National Associa-
Plaintiff, v. Timothy Becker, Heirs and Devisees of the Estate of Timothy Becker, and any person in possession, Defendants. NOTICE OF SALE CIVIL NUMBER: DV-19-189 HONORABLE: Jennifer B. Lint Under and by virtue of a Writ of Execution issued in the above-entitled action on the 10th day of December, 2019, I am commanded to sell at public auction all of Defendants’ rights and interest to the below described property: Lot 2, Honeydew Addition, Ravalli County, Montana according to the official recorded plat thereof. 1992, Fleetwood, Brookfield, VIN# IDFLM04AB13772BF, HUD #’s IDA113336 & IDA113337, 48’ X 24’. Which is affixed and attached to the land and is part of the real property. With a property address of 4272 South Cougar Lane , Stevensville, MT 59870 Notice is hereby given that on the 12th day of February, 2020, at 11:00 AM on the front steps of the Twenty-First Judicial District Court at 205 Bedford Street Suite A&B, Hamilton, MT 59840, the above-described property will be sold to the highest bidder to satisfy Plaintiff’s judgment, with interest and costs. Date: 1-08-20. Sheriff/Deputy Sheriff of Ravalli County, State of Montana By: Steve Holton **WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND ANYONE INTERESTED IN BIDDING ON ANY PROPERTY NOTICED FOR SALE RESEARCH THE OWNERSHIP OF THE PROPERTY THOROUGHLY PRIOR TO BIDDING ** BS 1-22, 1-29, 2-5-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING TOWN OF STEVENSVILLE BOARD OF ADJUSTMENTS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of Stevensville Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on Thursday, February 6, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. in the Town Council Chambers of Stevensville Town Hall, located at 206 ADVERTISING Buck Street. The Board of Adjustments has been given notice of intent to use or develop land contrary to local zoning regulations by the Stevensville School District, an entity of state or local government. The Stevensville School
District’s notice provides that it will use land inconsistent with the following local zoning regulations for reasons of financial burden: Stevensville Municipal Code Chapter 10 § 10-166 - Landscaping (a) Screening. Where landscaping is required for screening purposes, the landscaping shall be appropriate to the location and compatible with surrounding properties . It may include berms, shrubs, trees and fencing. (b) Parking lot. To provide visual relief and shade in parking areas, the developer must provide at least one deciduous tree or shrub for each six parking spaces. Trees and shrubs shall be planted in landscaping beds with a minimum of four feet in width and protected by curbing. (c) At least 50 percent of the required landscaping shall consist of trees. (Res. No. 168, § 16.20.180, 3-26-2001; Ord. No. 154, § 3, 1-82015) The public hearing will be held to provide a venue to receive public input and comment on the matter. The Board of Adjustments shall have no power to deny the proposed use but shall act only to allow a public forum of comment of the proposed use. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to ask questions and to express their opinions regarding the proposed agency exemption. Comments may be given orally at the hearing, emailed to clerk@townofstevensville.com or submitted in writing mailed to Town Clerk, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 before 3:00 pm February 6, 2020. Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271. Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 1-29, 2-5-2020. MNAXLP NOTICE OF FILING FOR TRUSTEE CANDIDATES: Lone Rock School District# 13 is looking to fill two (2) Trustee positions for a 3-year term each. If interested in being part of a board that has a focus on high quality education, please file by March 26th, 2020 by 3:00pm with the Business Manager/Clerk at Lone Rock School – 777-3314, or with the Ravalli County Election Office. Forms can be found on the school website. BS 2-5, 3-4-20. MNAXLP
NOTICE OF FILING DEADLINE Notice is hereby given that Monday, February 10, 2020, at 5:00 PM, is the final date for filing an oath of candidacy for district commissioners/trustees/directors for Special Purpose District Elections to be held on Tuesday, the 5th day of May, 2020. Oath of candidacy for the following district commissioners/trustees/directors elected by voters in said district must be filed by said date and time: Drainage Districts: Humble, Willow Creek Irrigation Districts: Bitterroot, Blodgett Creek, Canyon Creek, Charlos, Daly Ditches, Lomo, Mill Creek, Sunset, Ward Park Districts: Florence, Ravalli Co. Park District No. 2, Stevensville West Rural Fire Districts: Corvallis, Darby, Florence, Hamilton, Painted Rocks, Stevensville, Sula, Three Mile, Victor, West Fork Water/Sewer Districts: Corvallis, Tin Cup, Victor Oath of candidacy forms can be obtained from the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder’s Office, 215 South 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana. No filing fee is required. The Special Purpose District Elections will be held on May 5, 2020 for all districts whose commissioners/trustees/directors are not elected by acclamation. Dated this 29th day of January, 2020 Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6550
BITTERROOT STAR
Display Ad Size: 2 columns wide x 4” long (format to fit) Publish: February 5, 2020 Bill: Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder 215 South 4th Street, Suite C Hamilton, MT 59840
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Page 14--Bitterroot Star
Crossword Solution
For information about publishing Legal Notices in the Bitterroot Star contact Victoria at 777-3928 © Feature Exchange
Obituaries Merril ‘Dave’ Davis Merril “Dave” Davis, 78, of Hamilton passed peacefully in his sleep Friday, January 24th, 2020. He had a brief stay in MDMH Hospice, after a lengthy battle with Multiple Myeloma. He is now in the arms of his Lord and Savior. He was born August 19, 1941 in Bend, Oregon to Francis Edgar and LaNeve Cleora Davis (deceased). He is also preceded in death by his brother Alan Gene. Dave attended all of his school years in Durango, Colorado. Following high school, Dave joined the U.S. Army in 1959. He loved this country; he was a true patriot, serving for more than 20 years. He served us all in Germany, Korea and Vietnam, to name a few deployments, earning numerous medals. Dave was a ‘Once Army, always Army’ kind of guy, if that’s how they got it done then, that’s how we will do it now. He proudly flew this nation’s flag daily. Upon retiring from the US Army, Dave worked for the American Numismatic Association Obituary Information There is no charge for publishing death notices in the Bitterroot Star. The cost for publishing obituaries in the Star is $20 which includes a photo. The best way to submit obituaries and photos is by email to: editor@bitterrootstar.com. For more information contact Victoria at 777-3928.
1980-2002 in Colorado Springs. He also belonged to the Masons and The Mountain Man Association in Colorado. His passion for being in the outdoors was cultivated as a boy, choosing to sleep outdoors on a cot, just to be closer to nature. Dave often caught the family’s dinner, fishing a nearby river, always an extra fish for the family cat. Dave loved to hunt, fish and tie flies. Moving to Montana was an extension of his love of nature. Quiet times were for reading good books. In 1953, a junior high woodshop class germinated his passion to create beautiful furniture. He became an incredible carpenter. Dave and Norma’s home is full of his beautiful creations of craftsmanship. Dave was married to his high school sweetheart and love of his life, Norma J. Davis. A true love story, Dave joined the Army, apart by miles and time, they led separate lives, only to find and
Death Notice Craig Hunter
Hamilton - Craig N. Hunter, 72, passed away in the afternoon, Friday, January 31, 2020, at the Marcus Daly Hospice Center in Hamilton. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary. com.
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of Colorado, Willo Balfrey of California, Tania Stone of South Carolina and Aloha (Jim) Connor of Colorado. Dave was blessed to have many grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. For those who knew Dave, you no doubt enjoyed his quick wit and PG humor. He loved to sneak up on you with a good mind bender. You could see the sparkle in his eyes and his slow grin as your mind became challenged. Ever the Christian gentleman, he was an honorable man. Dave gave the best bear hugs. He was kind and loving to those privileged to be in his circle of friends. If you wish, donations can be made in his name to the charity of your choice or his preference, Marcus Daly Hospice. A celebration of his life will be at the First Presbyterian Church followed by services at Western Montana State Veterans Cemetery in Missoula in early summer (date to be announced).
reunite many years later. Their love for each other rekindled. He welcomed Norma’s daughters, Debbie (Bruce) Weigel of Arizona and Tracy (Kurt) Krech of Washington into his existing family; LaLeve (Dean) Lujan of Wyoming, Donna (Craig) Mauersberg of Maryland and Tania Gaudieri of Florida. Dave is survived by his sisters, LeNeve (Don) Dilts
Craig E. Luce Stevensville - Craig E. Luce of Stevensville, MT passed away peacefully in his home on January 22, 2020 at the age of 61 after a long battle with Scleroderma. Born August 9, 1958 in Lynnwood, CA, Craig grew up and spent the majority of his life in California, primarily in Morro Bay and around San Luis Obispo County. Craig was a loving husband and father. He enjoyed fishing, surfing, hiking, baseball, cooking, and trips to Laughlin, NV and various other outdoor activities. He worked as a masonry contractor for the majority of his life as well as a Chef and he worked on off shore oil rigs. He coached Little League baseball for many years in Los Osos, CA before moving away from California to Arizona and finally Montana. He was an active member of the Moose Lodge in Paso Robles for many years, and Knights of Columbus in Stevensville. He is preceded in death by his father Robert Luce, his grandmother Harriet “Gaga” Luce, and his beloved dog, Elliott. He is survived by his loving
wife Tawnya Luce, his son Gage Luce, his mother Barbara Thorne, daughter Jaslyn Hume, two grandchildren Kaydence and Tristan, brother Robert Luce, sister Dana Larkin, brother Gary Luce, his father-in-law George Biddle, and stepson Tyler Lee. A Celebration of Life will be organized and friends and family available to attend will be notified. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 15
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THANKS SO MUCH TO THESE BIDDERS FOR THEIR SUPPORT: Bob and Janet Wolfenden, Valley Irrigation, Big Sky Kubota, RDO Equipment and Dunn Family
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Thank You Donors! Ace Hardware Eastside Stevi Big Sky Kubota Bitterroot Brewing Bitterroot Drug Bitterroot River Guides Bitterroot Trading Post Bitterroot Weed Management BJ’s Bob Ward and Sons Bos Saddlery Bradley’s Hair Salon Bug Off Pest Control Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic Casey Curtis Designs Cheers Unlimited Coffee Cup Conoco Hamilton Corvallis Drug
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! u o Y k Than
Wednesday, February 5, 2020
Page 16--Bitterroot Star
River
continued “So, we are looking at how we can address this proactively and come up with a way that we can preserve stream function and habitat there and still meet the needs of recreational and commercial users on that stretch,” said Myers. He said after hearing from the various agencies about their own jurisdictional obligations and perspectives as well as from some commercial fishing outfitters and representatives of Trout Unlimited, that they would try and “brainstorm” over the issue and see if they could come up with any answers. While it is clear that the Bitterroot Conservation District does have direct authority over the actions and requires a 310 Permit before cutting a log up to allow safe boat passage, it has proven to be almost impossible to enforce when someone cuts without one. It is an action that is often undertaken on isolated stretches of the river going unwitnessed. If there is a witness, they must be able to identify the perpetrator. The BCD does not do investigative work. They will visit a site and conduct an inspection in relation to a permitting request. They may also visit the site of a complaint to make an assessment. But the complaint must identify the person who took the actions leading to the complaint. Complaints that are deemed valid must be submitted to the County Attorney’s office for enforcement. Neither the Sheriff’s Office nor FWP have the staff or the time or the resources to patrol
the river, especially in the enforcement of a law that is so difficult to apply. Besides the most common problems of not being able to catch the perpetrators in the act and not being able to get sufficient identification, there is another complicating factor. It is legal to manipulate the woody debris without a permit in an emergency, as long as you get a permit afterward. The law allows you up to 15 days to get the after-the-fact permit. What constitutes an emergency, however, is not clearly defined, as Howard Eldridge of the BCD pointed out at a recent District meeting. He said, according to the law, “it’s an emergency when there is an ‘immediate threat to life and property,’ but if you were not there at the time, that’s a hard thing to reconstruct a few days or a week later,” he noted. BCD Supervisor Kent Myers said at the meeting that in his opinion unless a boat is caught in a log jam, it’s hard to say the log jam constitutes an “immediate” threat to life or property that needs to be taken out. It may constitute a danger, but it doesn’t constitute an immediate emergency unless a boat is caught in it. Myers also said that the District was very interested in trying to respond more quickly to issue when it comes up. He said the long process, sometimes taking two to three weeks, may be one thing that leads to the decision to take unpermitted action. The bottom line is that, even in an emergency, an after-the-fact permit is still required. According to Ravalli County Flood Plain Administrator Rob
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Livesay, removing woody debris could come under the jurisdiction of his office and enforcement of the county flood plain regulations, “but it would have to be determined on a case by case basis.” He said that the Ravalli County Flood Plain Regulations were designed to keep the county in compliance with FEMA and the National Flood and Insurance Protection Act of 1975. The original regulations allowed the cutting of woody debris on the river, but when the regulations were revised in 2015 they required a permit for it. “Essentially,” said Livesay, “once you cut something or put something in the flood plain that can become an artificial obstruction, it is classified as fill and requires permitting.” He said if you cut out a log jam and it washes downstream and jams up again, that new log jam is considered an artificial obstruction and comes under the law. Unlike the 310 Permit issued by the District, however, the Flood Plain Permit is not free and can cost from $150 to $500. According to Livesay, a naturally occurring hazard was one thing, but a man-made hazard like a large sawn off log would come under the law and the one who cut it would be the responsible party. He added that if the Conservation District actually approved the cutting of a log in the floodplain, the log would have to be removed from the floodplain. If it was left in the floodplain the District could be responsible for creating a hazard in violation of the floodplain regulations. “But how big does the log have to be?” someone asked. If it’s a 3-inch limb stretching across the river and someone breaks it off, have they violated the law? The intent of the law was pretty clear, according to Livesay. You don’t want to create a potential hazard. He said it was a judgment call based on a lot of factors and that’s why it calls for a case by case approach. Ultimately, he called it a “gray area.” His office too, however, requires a violator
be identified for any enforcement and usually it is a landowner. In this case it would be the culprit who cut the log. Both the BCD and the Flood Plain Administrator usually deal with landowners. In the case of the upper West Fork, the largest landowner by far is the public. As West Fork District Ranger Seth Carbonari put it, “We are not a landowner. We are a land manager.” The Forest Service manages the land that is held in the Public Trust. He said that his agency issues special use permits for outfitters to access the river from public land. They maintain some access sites along the river and require permits for launching commercial boats. “But once they are in the river,” he said, “we don’t have any say.” He said it was designated as critical Bull trout habitat and any agency doing anything in the river should probably consult with USFWS. Bill Goslin, outfitting permit coordinator for the Forest Service, said that woody debris was mentioned in the agency’s operating plan where it says that “removal of large woody debris is not authorized by this permit.” If the permittee has any questions about removing woody debris, he said, it states they should contact Montana FWP. FWP fisheries biologist Jason Lindstrom and Bitterroot National Forest fisheries biologist Mike Jakober both said that, in terms of fish habitat, woody debris was an essential ingredient for good fisheries. “From the fisheries perspective,” said Lindstrom, “my goal is to have the highest quality fish habitat possible and have the river function the way it is supposed to function hydrologically.” He said the situation on the upper West Fork was exacerbated by the endangered status of Bull trout because large woody debris is critical bull trout habitat and maintaining woody debris jams and channel complexity is really important. Jakober agreed. He said that after examining the area he
believed it has been impacted by cutting out of logs. “The channel is simpler. There is less cover and some of the side channels have been abandoned. We’ve lost complexity,” said Jakober. “We are trading good habitat for worse habitat.” Lindstrom agreed with Jakober’s assessment, but also said that no one really had a grasp of how big the problem was in terms of the fishery. He said some current fish survey information would confirm how much these changes may have impacted the fish population. Fishing outfitter Eddie Olwell said that he was a member of Trout Unlimited and on the board of the Bitter Root Water Forum and said he understood the habitat issue and he was against indiscriminate cutting of logs. But he was also very concerned about boating access and safety. He mentioned the statistics for deaths on the river all related to “strainers” or killer log jams. “Maybe a complete blockage is an emergency?” he said. FWP regional fisheries manager Pat Saffel said the agency was in a tough situation. “We want woody debris in the river and yet we also have concerns about safety,” he said. He said there was currently an incident on Rock Creek where a very large pine tree has blocked the entire creek and does represent a danger to boaters. He said that FWP and the Lolo Forest were in consultation over the issue. “They don’t quite know what to do,” he said, “I think they are watching our discussions here very closely.” He said something needs to be done but it seems to be either take the thing out or stop the floating. He said in the case of the West Fork, restricting all floating on the upper section was considered as an option and declined. Instead, it was limited to wade fishing only for one day of the week. Jack Mauer, speaking for Trout Unlimited, called the West Fork “a tight spot” and difficult to navigate. He said it was a narrow
window for floating, maybe 2 to 3 weeks, but he didn’t want to give it up. He said the log jams on that stretch were increasing in the last several years but that he didn’t see it as a severe problem. “If we are going to allow floating” he said, “we need to manage woody debris.” Christine Brissette, Special Projects Manager for Montana Trout Unlimited, was in agreement. She said TU wants better habitat for better fishing. She said the West Fork is in pretty good shape now compared to many streams around, but that everyone has recognized a degradational trend and a loss of the ability for the river to self-regulate. She said that log jams were key factors in maintaining good habitat. “It creates backwaters for spawning and refuge from flood waters,” she said. “We want habitat, but we also want fishing. We want both. There is no easy solution here.” With the varying perspectives pretty much all laid out, the brainstorming began. Many items were discussed, and many options were considered. One thing a lot of them agreed on was the need for some sort of “reality check” on the situation, like some fish population studies, and survey of the existing woody debris situation. A series of multi-agency and outfitter floats in the spring was another idea, to identify problems and cooperatively decide on the best solutions. Not surprisingly, “educating the public” about the issue was at the top of the “to do” list. Also under consideration are potential rule changes that would allow the Conservation District to act more quickly in response to complaints or perhaps, where federal land is involved, using another response approach under a different permitting system. In the meantime, float on the river at your own risk and if you have to “manage some woody debris,” get a 310 Permit. It really is a requirement, and in Ravalli County it is still free.
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