Bitterroot Star - March 15, 2023

HEALTH: Bitterroot Health officials speak at Darby groundbreaking ceremony

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to say that the new facility will double patient capacity and will also provide mental health services. “We have an opportunity to ofer hometown healthcare,” she said. “It’s really amazing to see this project come together and know what it will mean to families like mine.” Postevent, Hipp had this to say: “The core values at Bitterroot Health align with mine which allows me to help patients live healthier, fuller lives. I love providing care in my community; coming home to practice medicine in the Valley has been one of the most rewarding experiences. Giving back to people who helped raise me is one of the most special feelings in the world.”

The facility was in part made possible by a $2 million private donation from Charles Scripps. Scripps is a businessman and Darby resident whose family has a long history of supporting healthcare facilities. About the facility, Scripps had this to say: “It takes a combination of vision, ideas, and courageous people to make a project like this work,” said Scripps. “I give a lot of credit to the Bitterroot Health Board and Foundation

Board, John Bishop, the architects, and Bitterroot Health Darby physician, Maria Hipp, to come up with a workable plan to meet the needs of our community. I’m just grateful to be a part of it. The town of Darby will beneft

greatly from having this vision become a reality.”

According to Stacie Duce, Director of the non-proft Bitterroot Health Foundation, Scripps’ donation alone moved up the facility’s fnish date by almost two years.

The foundation was formed in 1991 as a way to aid Bitterroot Health services. The Bitterroot Health Foundation fundraises to ofer continuing education scholarships to staf, caregiver relief and appreciation as well as equip-

ment purchases and more. The project also saved money due to funding and acquiring materials and planning in conjunction with the new Stevensville Bitterroot Health care facility, which is nearly fnished. According to Duce, “the biggest thing we are excited about in Darby are the pharmacy services that will come with it.” She explained that it will start small but will have room to grow and will greatly beneft the community’s needs.

According to a Bitterroot Health press release after the event, “In attendance were Bitterroot Health CEO John Bishop, Bitterroot Health Foundation Board President Tom Grymes, current Bitterroot Health Darby physician Maria Hipp and her staf, members of the Bitterroot Health Board, Bitterroot Health leadership, members from the Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce, Darby Mayor Nancy McKinney, Darby Fire Chief Duane Horvath, Darby Marshals TJ Gibson and Larry Rose, Darby School Superintendent Tony Biesiot, and representatives from Neenan Architects who are designing and building the new facility.”

Renowned author leaves bookstore ‘Breathless’

by Nathan Boddy

The group of people who’d come to Chapter One Bookstore to meet renowned author David Quammen had already flled the front of the store by the time the event got underway last Wednesday, March 8th. Bookstore co-owner Mara Luther was very pleased to see the turnout, saying that it is important for bookstores to help build connections between readers and authors. In the case of David Quammen, Luther says that his time

in Hamilton was particularly exciting, not only because of his impressive writing career, but because he is a Montanan and had come to town, in part, to meet with representatives of the Rocky Mountain Lab.

Quammen is a science and travel writer whose 15 published books have covered the gambit from fctional spy novels to articles for Outside Magazine to extensively written non-fction books about wildlife, viruses and pandemics. His most recent non-fction book, “Breathless,” which publisher

Simon and Schuster describes as, “the story of the worldwide scientifc race to decipher the coronavirus SARSCoV-2, trace its source, and make possible the vaccines to fght the Covid-19 pandemic,” came out last fall, and his next, “Heartbeat of the Wild,” is projected to hit bookstands in May.

“We’re really hoping he’ll come back for a more traditional reading,” says Luther, acknowledging that the author’s time in Hamilton was short, but that they were very excited about his visit, nonetheless.

“He’s someone that I’ve been reading since I was in college,” she said. Luther pointed out that the visit by Quammen was not just remarkable due to the author’s background, but that it refects the nature of Hamilton as a community that attracts the notice of skilled professionals. She says that, while the town itself may not be directly upon the heavily traveled path for book tours, authors like David Quammen and Temple Grandin, who

See BOOKSTORE, page 4

Bitterroot Health CEO, John Bishop (left), and current Darby health care provider Maria Hipp (right) speaking during the groundbreaking last Wednesday.

Photo by John Dowd.

BOOKSTORE: Local bookstore event attracts major authors

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will be making a visit on March 23rd and 24th, fnd in Hamilton a variety of groups and purposes which merit their attention.

Temple Grandin is a well known professor, author and animal behavioralist whose study and insight into the management of livestock has had crucial and lasting impacts in the way animals are raised, managed and even slaughtered.

Grandin is also a spokesperson on, and has written books about, autism. Her own experience growing up with autism and hypersensitivity have undoubtedly infuenced and directed her work, and mean that her expertise is of tremendous value to multiple entities here in the Bitterroot. Grandin will be hosted by Chapter One Bookstore and HEARTism of Corvallis, for a book signing in Corvallis on March 23rd, and again by the Rocky Mountain Laboratories on Friday, March 24th. While in the area, Grandin will also be speaking with the Bitterroot Stock Grower’s Association.

“I think it’s so cool that in our little community, she was able to fnd all

Banquet raises $45K for youth outdoor activities

by John Dowd

The frst annual Montana Matters Banquet went of without a hitch, say event organizers. Tom Powers, a leading member of Montana Matters and Montana Conservation Elders, Wanted to thank everyone involved with the event. “This is defnitely a great committee to work with. they are a crack team. Everybody bent over backwards to make this a successful event and everyday is owed a big thank you.” He especially wanted to put out a big thank you to Tracey Manning.

Manning is a member of the Montana Matters organization, as well as a mentor for First Hunt Foundation (FHF), which is the other half of the Montana Matters partnership.

Manning took lead organizing the banquet which fed over 200 people. During the event, there were numerous silent auction items donated from across the state and beyond. After most of the silent auction items were bid on, and everyone was called to their seats, the frst responders and military persons were asked to stand.

After collecting names they were entered into a drawing for a fag. The winning recipient, a Vietnam Veteran named Jim Kalkofen, smiled when called up and said “A lot of us vets love what this organization is about.”

According to powers he was a victim of Agent Orange during the war and is disabled. Kalkofen was seated at a table with other wounded veterans.

those groups,” says Luther. “It just goes to show you how diverse we are here in the Bitterroot.”

For more information about the upcoming visit by Temple Grandin, visit the Chapter One Bookstore website at: https://www.chapter1bookstore.com, or the events page for HEARTism in Corvallis at: https:// www.heartism406.org/new-page.

County’s

Estate Firm

David Quammen prepares to sign a book for a reader at Chapter One Bookstore in Hamilton. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

Jim Kalkofen (left) receiving a fag from a drawing Saturday night from Tom Powers (right). Photo courtesy Fred Upchurch.

See $45K, on page 10

COUNCIL: Stevi council approves subdivision, Phase 1 to commence

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Eastside Hwy, depending on available funding, they claim no responsibility for either Logan Lane or Middle Burnt Fork, the two roads adjacent to the subdivision acreage. Those are county roads and the county would be the responsible party. The county commissioners have signed of on the subdivision.

Marilyn Wolf, a former council member and resident of Creekside Meadows, said she had a problem with lack of clarity on whether the

status of water and sewer issues had been satisfactorily resolved, in par ticular the place of use of the water rights, and questioned the willingness of PCI to work with the Town.

A letter from Jim Kalkofen, a Creekside Meadows resident and a prior vocal opponent of the Burnt Fork Estates subdivision proposal, also mentioned unresolved questions about water and sewer infrastructure capacity, required installation of a booster pump which he said hadn’t

CAREER: Summit Career Center accepting applications, motivated adults encouraged

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serving the area’s most vulnerable individuals. It is funded by the Gianforte Family Foundation, private donors, and other Montana nonproft organizations.

Both Bryan Curlin

and Katelyn Shepherd graduated from the Stevensville program February 28, and are working for Doyles Sheehan of Missoula. Sheperd says, “Not only did I grow as a person,

but Summit Career Cen ter also helped me fnd a career I love.” Curlin adds, “If it wasn’t for Summit Career Center, I would still be looking for a good job.”

“We’re here to help motivated students who are ready to change their lives,” Stevens says. “What’s very gratifying,” she says, “is to see the change in people over a short time. Their self-confdence, presentation skills, and professionalism grow remarkably.”

Babbits says, “I have learned valuable coping and time-management skills. My confdence has improved dramatically, allowing me to stand tall and giving me a greater capacity to serve others.”

Prospective student leaders should visit summitcareercenter.org to apply online. For more information, contact Jacqueline Stevens at 406.777.7232.

own, operate and maintain planned ponds, among other things. “Many unanswered questions exist,” wrote Kalkofen. “Until they are researched and approved in advance, then and

Phase I had been adequately addressed and voted to approve. The fnal vote was 3-1 in favor with council member Cindy Brown abstaining, stating that she had a “confict.”

West Fork Ranger Dist. to host public workshop for Mud Creek Project

The Bitterroot National Forest signed the Decision Notice for the 48,486-acre Mud Creek Project in January. The decision authorized the forest to move forward with planning and implementing fuels reduction, vegetation management, and transportation system activities southwest of Darby, MT.

As part of the implementation planning process, West Fork District Ranger Dan Pliley has scheduled a public workshop on March 16th from 5-7 p.m. at the West Fork Fire Hall, located at 5860 West Fork Road. During the workshop, District staf will be on hand with maps displaying

the proposed units and treatment activities to solicit public feedback and answer questions.

The Mud Creek Project is utilizing a diferent approach that allows for public involvement and input, not only in the planning stages, but also throughout the implementation process. The Mud Creek Project area has been divided into four separate implementation areas (Nez/Mud, Buck/Ditch, Blue Joint, Castle/Cone) for which unique implementation treatment plans will be developed. The West Fork Ranger District has

See MUD, page 14

Fire

Friday, March 24, 2023, 7:00 PM Sapphire Lutheran Homes 501 N. 10th St. Hamilton

The menu features: Baby Back Pork Ribs, BBQ Chicken, Beer Brats, Mac ‘n Cheese, Red Skin Mashed Potatoes, Coleslaw, Cornbread and Strawberry Shortcake. Beer and wine are included in the ticket price!

The entertainment features: Steve Winkler in:

“A Tribute to John Denver and Neil Diamond”. Tickets $100 each. Each ticket sold includes an entry into a drawing for a $150 Bouilla gift card. Call 406 -363-2800 for tickets!

Generously Sponsored By:

Under radar, but important, bills

This week has been the legislature’s transmittal break. As a result, we aren’t in session at the moment and so we haven’t passed any new legislation. But we have passed a substantial amount of legislation already and I thought I would discuss some of those bills this week. They cover a wide range of areas, from Second Amendment protections to making sure police ofcers who have been killed in line of duty’s families will be provided for. While these bills are very diferent, their aim is to protect our Montana way of life.

Senate Bill 359, sponsored by Sen. Terry Vermeire from Anaconda, would prohibit fnancial institutions from tracking frearms-related sales using unique identifcation codes or other means. This is a necessary 2nd amendment protection because of moves from credit card companies, banks, and anti-gun activists seeking to weaponize the fnancial system against gun owners. SB 359 is written broadly to cover a wide range of fnancial institutions and payment providers and prohibits the tracking of sales of frearms, frearm components, accessories, and ammunition. This pro 2nd amendment bill is much needed in the current anti-gun climate.

Long days at the capitol

agement Program. SB 58 is a win for hunters and a win for landowners.

Senate Bill 294, sponsored by Sen. Barry Usher from Laurel, establishes the “End of Watch Trust.” The purpose of the trust is to support eligible law enforcement ofcers and their surviving immediate family in the event of an ofcer’s death or catastrophic injury in the line of duty. We can all agree that we need to take care of our frst responders who are taking care of us. SB 294 is one way we can ensure that our police ofcers will always be taken care of.

by Jason Ellsworth

Senate Bill 373, Sponsored by Sen. Dan Salomon from Ronan, provides for alternative teacher credentials by allowing new and alternative certifcation requirements for teachers. This would allow certifcations by alternate means for teachers with expertise that don’t meet the current criteria. Flexibility and Alternative Teacher Certifcations would alleviate the ongoing teacher shortages across the state.

The 2023 Legislature has made it to the session’s halfway point. For those who spend their time at the Capitol, it means marathon days, intense rhetoric, and heightened tempers.

We went into this session laser-focused on an agenda that supports Montana families, like cutting property taxes for Montana working families, investing in housing Montanans can aford, ensuring parents can fnd and aford child care, strengthening health care to keep nursing homes open, and ensuring that people can see a doctor when they need to.

Unfortunately, Montana Republicans have lost sight of the problems their constituents elected them to solve. They spent the frst half of this legislative session blowing through $1 billion in irresponsible tax handouts to the wealthy and wasting time attacking women, the LGBTQ+ community, doctors, nurses, teachers, and librarians. They are even going after Montana business owners.

We’ve worked hard to stop bills ranging from hurtful and mean-spirited to outrageously fscally irresponsible. We’ve had some success, like making progress on Medicaid reimbursement rates, which will help ensure that nursing homes stay open and health care is accessible to rural Montana. But we know that bills are getting through that will harm Montanans.

Democrats will continue to push for a fair budget that works for Montana families, workers, and businesses. We know that the Republicans’ plan fails to meet the scale of the crises facing Montana, and also has no vision for the future. It is essential that we save more of the historic budget surplus as a safeguard against the economic uncertainties on the horizon.

We encourage everyone to reach out to their legislators and talk to them about their priorities. Ask them what they are doing to ensure housing policies will build homes people can actually aford – not just mansions for those at the top. Ask them what they have done to provide real relief for renters. Ask them about the massive tax cut that went to the wealthiest. Ask them why they keep voting against ensuring families have child care, so businesses have workers to stay open. Ask them if they will support funding to community health care providers. Ask them why they are attacking the basic rights of our friends and neighbors.

Senate Bill 58, sponsored by Sen. Steve Hinebauch from Glendive, doubles the limit on the money that landowners can receive for participating in the Block Management Program from $25,000 currently per year to $50,000 per year. The increase would help fairly compensate landowners for voluntarily allowing public hunters onto their properties. The bill would help maintain and increase hunters’ access to private land through Montana’s Block Man-

Though the legislature is currently on our transmittal break, its good to refect on the hard work that has been accomplished up to this point. The bills discussed here are a small fraction of some of the great bills we have heard and passed already this session. Whether it’s making it easier for teachers to get certifed, or encouraging landowners to participate in our Block Management Program, they are all designed to keep Montana the last best place.

We hear from Montanans who are frustrated with what is happening in Helena. Often these individuals are from outside our districts. People in every county struggle to put food on the table, fnd childcare, and aford a home in the community they love. They call and ask why we are wasting time going after people just trying to live free from politicians restricting their constitutional rights.

We wish we could answer that question for you. But we can tell you that we are doing everything possible to get this train back on track. As the budget process continues, Montana

We have 45 days left in this session. It isn’t much time, but we promise you that we will keep working for you whether you live in our districts or not and whether you voted for us or not. We want you to have the life you deserve, including being able to aford to live in your community, having a safe place for your kids while you work at a job that pays you a good salary, and being able to live your life as you choose without politicians in Helena dictating your personal decisions.

Rep. Kim Abbott (D-Helena) is the Minority Leader in the Montana House of Representatives. Sen. Pat Flowers (D-Belgrade) is the Minority Leader in the Montana Senate.

Senator Jason Ellsworth, R-Hamilton, is the President of the Montana Senate.

Obituaries

Stanley Kastens

Victor - With profound sadness, the family of Stanley Alan Kastens, announces his passing on February 21, 2023, at the age of 71.

He was born October 13, 1951, to Albert and Arlene (Samson) Kastens of Ludell, KS. As a child Stan was baptized and confrmed in the Lutheran faith at Trinity Lutheran Church of rural Ludell. He attended Lutheran parochial school north of Ludell and graduated from Atwood High School, Atwood, KS in May 1969.

On December 8, 1973, Stan was joined in marriage to Debra (Deby) Kay Smith at Trinity Lutheran Church, Ludell, KS. To this union was born one child Stacey Dawn (March 1981) who passed away at birth. After living in both Kansas and Texas, Stan and Deby moved to Victor, Montana in 1983. Here they built the log cabin of their dreams with Stan’s carpentry expertise. He and Deby later divorced but Stan remained in Montana, living out his dream of owning cattle and spending time in the mountains

with his friends, horses and beloved dogs. He loved hard work and the beauty of God’s creation that surrounded him.

Stan faced his cancer diagnosis not only with

Cody James Arrington

July 7, 1994 - March 8, 2023

Cody James Arrington, beloved son, brother, father and friend passed away unexpectedly on March 8, 2023, in Missoula, Montana at age 28. Cody was born in Sacramento, California, but raised from age 2 in Stevensville, Montana.

Cody is survived by his parents, Steven and Melody Arrington of Hamilton, Montana, his daughter, Jessica Mahala Jean Arrington, of Missoula, Montana, his sister, Cassie Marie Harnish of Pleasanton, California, his brother, Steven Todd Arrington Jr. of Yuba City, California and many Uncles, Aunts and Cousins.

Cody was a proud father and when Jessica was born on September 12, 2021, he was the happiest anyone had ever seen him. Cody was an avid outdoorsman, and spending time with family and friends hunting, fshing, boating and four wheeling were highlights in his life. Cody successfully started

Sunrise service—7am

Late service—10am

Easter breakfast will be served between services, beginning roughly at 8:30am.

Our Savior, afliated with the Lutheran Church––Missouri Synod, is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road, south of Stevensville of the Eastside Highway. Proceeding past Burnt Fork Market and beyond Burnt Fork Veterinary Clinic, then through the curve, turn east onto Pine Hollow Road. Cross the tracks and the canal, and Our Savior will be on your left, marked by three crosses.

North Valley Public Library events

Beginning Belly Dance – Mondays thru Mar 27 at 6pm

Join this fun class and learn Egyptian moves while building core strength. Belly dance, as it is called in the U.S., is the style of dance popular in the Middle East with both men and women. It stresses movements from the center of your body.

Learn posture, hip movements, arm movements etc. At the fnal class you should be able to do a full dance. The class requires standing with bent knees for 45 minutes and hip movement. You need to sign a release. Please wear leggings, any comfortable shirt & shoes, and a scarf to put around your hips. Registration required. Email denisea@northvalleylibrary.org to register.

Wild & Weird Wednesdays with Science Ofcer

Lisa – Wednesday, Mar 15 at 4pm

Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural word.

Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, food, and more. Children will soon be formulating their own hypotheses, experiments, and documentation in order to participate in a grade-free science fair at the end of the summer. Be sure to register as this program will get flled soon and we need to know how many supplies to have

on hand. Concepts taught are geared towards ages 8-12, but younger scientists/ siblings 6-7 welcome. Parents/caregivers must register themselves as well as each child attending.

Library Board Meeting – Wednesday, Mar 15 at 3pm North Valley Public Library Board of Trustees Meetings are open to the public. Agendas and contact information are available on NVPL website.

DIY Zines: Design, create & produce your own publication – Thursday, Mar 16 at 6:00pm Express yourself in a new way with a zine! Zines are publications made in single or small batches and provide a highly personalized, artistic space for the creator to share their writing, artwork, photography, etc. During this adult craft night, you will be introduced to the fascinating history of zines, see plenty of examples, then create your own. Registration required.

Art for Kids – Monday, Mar 20 at 4pm

Calling all crafty kids!

Art for Kids Ages 5-10 is presented by Crystal Grant at NVPL. Parent helpers are welcome. Registration required.

Lenten Fish Fry

The Knights of Columbus Council #13093 will be holding their annual Lenten fsh fry dinners at St. Mary’s Family Center in Stevensville. They will be serving from 5 to 7 p.m with the option to dine in, drive thru or take out. Menu includes fsh flets, French fries, mac and cheese, green beans, coleslaw, dessert and drinks. Cost of meal will be $15 per plate for ages 12 and up and $7 per plate for under 12. March dates are the 17th, 24th and 31st. The Knights of Columbus appreciate your support.

Square dance classes

Intro to Modern Square Dance, hosted by the Solo Stars, will take place on March 24 and 31 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Lolo Community Center, 12345 Hwy

93. Come join the Solo Stars for evenings of fun and laughter while learning this great aerobic activity set to music. Perfect time to connect and socialize. Attendance limited to frst 36 participants. Ages 12 and up - all are welcome. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Cost $7.00 per person. For more information, or to register, call or text (208) 503-0551 or (208) 553-2727.

‘Gilligan’s Island, The Musical’

This is a family-friendly musical based on the popular 60’s TV show. Seven shipwrecked castaways explore their island home with help from Gilligan and the Skipper. This comedy is flled with wacky slapstick antics and showcases the “Ballad of Gilligan’s Isle” from the TV show, plus 18 original songs. Music and lyrics are by Hope and Larence Juber; based on the book by Sherwood and Lloyd J. Schwartz. The show runs: March 17, 18, 24, 25 at 7:30 p.m. and March 19, 26 at 2:00 p.m. This show is likely to sell out quickly, so be sure to make your reservations early!

Pachyderm Club

The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, March 17 at 12 noon at The Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speakers will be Pete Jospeh, Superintendent of Corvallis School District, to briefy talk about the upcoming school levy, and Greg Overstreet talking about how to destroy a perfectly good state. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.

Community Game Night

The Three Mile Community Center will be hosting a family game night on Friday, March 17th from 6 to 9 p.m. at 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. There will be board games, card games, indoor cornhole and many more. No charge, just come have an evening of fun with your family and friends. Call 406544-4994 or 360-3385 for more info.

courage but also a charming smile, quick wit and sense of humor that was endearing to everyone who knew him. He made friends easily and found a community of people around him which included neighbors, friends and family who tended to him in his fnal days with love and compassion. Their dedication was truly amazing, and it was a testament to his willingness to help others without hesitation.

He leaves to mourn him two brothers, Steve Kastens (Laurie) of Ludell, KS, Joel Kastens (Tricia) of Lebanon, TN; one sister Neva Manker (Mike) of Indianola, NE; as well as aunts, an uncle, nieces, nephews and many dear friends.

Stan was preceded in death by his infant daughter, Stacey, his parents, and his brother, Mark.

A Celebration of Life in Victor, Montana and a Funeral in Atwood, Kansas will both be announced at a later date. Interment will be in Trinity Lutheran Cemetery north of Ludell, KS. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com

his own tile business and over many years, built Green Head Construction into a trusted thriving business. His work ethic was only surpassed by his love of God, family, and friends.

Cody did everything in a BIG way. He always had the coolest, newest truck and loved to share his success with friends and family. He leaves a legacy of accomplishments and achievements. Cody lived life to the fullest and will never be forgotten.

Death Notices

Jeanie E. Haas

Hamilton - Jeanie E. Haas, 87, passed away in the morning, March 6, 2023, at the Discovery Care Center in Hamilton. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

Chili cook-of beneft

The Stevensville Police Department will hold its 2nd annual Chili Cookof and Fundraiser on Saturday, March 18 from 5 to 8 p.m. at St. Mary’s Family Center, 333 Charlos, Stevensville. Funds raised will go towards ongoing equipment needs of the department, continuing education and to give back to the community. There will be a rafe, a silent and live auction, and music by Joan Zen. There is a $25.00 fee to enter the chili competition; entry forms are available online at www.townofstevensville.com on the Police page, or can be picked up at Town Hall or the Police Department during regular business hours. (Cash or check only please.) The cost to attend the event is $5.00 at the door (cash) and includes a bowl of chili, a side and a nonalcoholic drink. There will be a cash bar with beer and wine.

Introduction to Defensive Handguns for Women

March 18 & April 8 2023

This 2 day course is for women with little or no experience with handguns, who may be frightened of handguns or who are considering acquiring a handgun. The frst day course is designed to assist you in choosing the right handgun – for you. It will also introduce you to the facilities of the Whittecar Range.There will be discussions on handgun safety, basic operation of revolvers, semi-automatic handguns, and the cartridges used in each type of handgun.The legal aspects of the use of force will be presented and discussed. Handguns will be provided so that you may handle the diferent types and models. Ammunition will also be provided for a live fre session on the range. A self defense book, specifcally for women, will also be provided. The second day course will teach basic defensive shooting using the students own equipment. Safe gun handling will be taught and stressed. Various types of ammunition and the performance of each type will be discussed.The class will be

held at the Whittecar Range on Blodgett View Road and is limited to 10 participants. For an application or further information call Lee at 642-3590 or Jim at 360-8392.Successful completion of this two day course meets the education requirements for application to the state for a concealed carry permit.

Rotary Club

On Monday, March 20, Rotary speaker will be Scott Roberts from Unchained Freedom who will speak about human trafcking. Rotary is an international service organization of over one million members that focuses its service and fnancial support on public health. Rotary meets Mondays at noon at BJs restaurant. Guests and prospective members are welcome.

Audubon program:

‘Dark Skies’

Darkness is increasingly rare in our world, yet it is critical to all life. Light pollution, especially in urban areas, is now a problem that prevention alone cannot address. Bitterroot Audubon’s March meeting will feature a presentation on dark skies and light pollution by Kristine Komar, a board member of the new group Starry Skies Montana. She will discuss light pollution, how what we believe about lighting is part of the problem, and how individuals and communities can help make a diference for birds and the earth by making the world around us a little darker. Kristine’s presentation is scheduled for Monday, March 20 at 7 p.m. via Zoom. You must register in advance for this Zoom meeting at: https://us02web.zoom.us/ meeting/register/tZcrfu2vqjgtGNVfk-my6sXeXb4auY2mEHaU. After registering, you will receive a confrmation email containing information about joining the meeting. Please register before 5:00 PM the day of the meeting. No one will be allowed into the meeting after 7:15 p.m.

Corvallis Civic Club

The Corvallis Civic Club will meet on Monday, March 20, at 7:00 pm in the Corvallis High School Library.

In addition to discussion of ongoing Civic Club projects, there will be a brief presentation by Corvallis School Board members about the proposed school levy. All are welcome to attend and help the club continue its mission of supporting projects that beneft the Corvallis community. Come and be part of making our community the best it can be.

Accordion jam

Come enjoy music and dancing to good accordion music at The Rustic Hut in Florence on Sunday, March 26 from 1-4 pm, $7 at the door. Help keep this organization alive and thriving.

Driver safety course

Bitterroot Health (formerly Marcus Daly Hospital), located at 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton, will host an ALL NEW 2023 AARP Driver Safety Course on Friday, March 31 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. While this new safe driving course is designed for drivers age 50 and over, all drivers are welcome. The new program features laws and up-dates specifc to Montana, Defensive Driving, Winter Driving, new Vehicle Technologies to name a few. Class size is limited; pre-registration is advised. There are no driving tests or written exams and, Montana mandates insurance discounts for qualifed drivers. Certifcates are good for 3 years! Class fee: $20.00, AARP members; $25.00, for non-members. For class sign up: call Jones Korman Insurance at: 406363-6583. For further information: call Thom Ainsworth, Instructor, at 369-0149.

Tax-Aide program

The AARP Foundation Tax-Aide Program will be offering free tax return services to all ages in Stevensville this year. To schedule an appointment call the Senior Center (406)777-5681 between 10 a.m. and noon on Monday, Wednesday or Friday only.

$45K: Co-operative event raises money for youth outdoor adventures

After the fag drawing, three youth from the event were selected to be given scholarships to camps. These youth were Lacie Larson, Sam Falagan and Brennan Meinhold. Powers explained that “Many more of these summer camp opportunities will be given out at no cost to area youths on Saturday May 6th at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. Additional camp scholarships will be given out at local wild-

life banquets this spring. There are camp scholarships available for our youth ages seven to 17 years of age.” Serving food and showcasing auction items during the event

The Montana Matters frst annual banquet featured dozens of silent auction items, numerous of which were frearms and hunts taylored towards getting youth interested in the outdoors.

were Stevensville High School FFA members. Montana matters will be donating $500 to the FFA for helping out. During the event there were several items auctioned of live, including over 20 desserts that brought in hundreds of thousands

for the event, alone. The live auctions were performed by Joe Mast and the event master of ceremonies as Shane Clouse. Clouse is owner of the Pink Grizzly in Missoula, with also donated to the event. Clouse is an avid supporter of the organization and has attended several camps, according to Powers.

Also attending the event were other leading members of FHF, including organization president and founder Rick Brazell, FHF Connecting Heroes and Hunters Director Rich Cotte, FHF Western Washington Chapter President Robert Beale and

Ray Livingston, the director of the FHF Forgotten Rites program.

In all, the banquet made nearly $45,000. That will be split between Montana Conservation Elders and First hunt Foundation, and will all go towards helping youth experience the outdoors.

For more information on Montana Matters Youth Outdoor Experiences or Montana Conservation Elders, members suggest interested parties visit the group website www.mtconservationelders.org. For information on First hunt foundation, parties can visit frsthuntfoundation.org.

Sapphire Lutheran to raise money for new fre station

The Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department is in dire need of a new fre station and the City is building it. Though the city has saved and budgeted monies, secured grant funding, and qualifed for loans, they are still short. Due to rising costs of labor and supplies the cost of the station increased from the time the fre station

was proposed and the time it started. The City is hoping that the community will rally around them and contribute to the new station. Many individuals, groups and organizations are doing just that, including Sapphire Lutheran Homes in Hamilton.

Sapphire is hosting a Fundraising

Dinner for the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department’s new Fire Station. The menu features: Baby Back Pork Ribs, BBQ Chicken, Beer Brats, Mac ‘n Cheese, Red Skin Mashed Potatoes, Coleslaw, Cornbread and Strawberry Shortcake. Beer and wine are included in the ticket price. The entertainment features: Steve Winkler in “A Tribute

to John Denver and Neil Diamond”. The date of the event is Friday, March 24, 2023, at 7:00 PM. Tickets are $100 each and each ticket sold is also an entry for a $150 gift card from Bouilla that will be awarded at the dinner. Call 406-363-2800 to purchase tickets and for more information.

Posting Date March 13, 2023

There were over 200 people in attendance at the Montana Matters banquet. Featured above was the live auction, which featured numerous items including beaver fur pillows, more frearms, special hunts and much more.

Hamilton boys lose heartbreaker at state

The diference between winning and losing in Class A boys basketball is razor thin. For example, Hamilton and Dillon were by all measures equal teams this season, with Hamilton going 2-1 versus the Beavers and each of those games decided by 2 points or less. But at State in Bozeman on March 9th11th, Hamilton was eliminated after losing two tough games and Dillon got hot and was the state runner up. It’s hard to predict what might happen once the game starts.

Canaan (#4) Magness were integral to the Broncs’ run into the Class A State tournament in Bozeman. Canaan had a team high 17 points in Hamilton’s 43-45 loss to Billings Central on Friday, March 10th. Photo by Scott Sacry.

The Hamilton boys were the West’s

#4 seed and had to face Lewistown in the frst round. Lewistown would go on to win the State Championship on Saturday. Hamilton fought hard, but fell 44-60. This sent them to the loser out game where they lost in heartbreaking fashion to Billings Central, 43-45. It was a disappointing way to end the season for the Broncs, but they had a successful season nonetheless, qualifying for state and competing at a high level in every game. They will miss seniors Max Cianfone, Eli Taylor, Asher Magness, and Liam O’Connell, but they have a talented group of young players to lead Hamilton into the future.

Hamilton 44, Lewistown 60

The Hamilton boys faced Lewistown, who would go on to win the Class A Championship, in the frst round on Thursday. Both teams played exceptional defense, but Hamilton couldn’t stop

Lewistown’s Royce Robinson, who scored roughly half of Lewistown’s points with 29. On ofense, Hamilton couldn’t fnd their range, shooting 33% from the feld, and they were out rebounded 36-23. After a close 1st quarter, Lewistown started to pull away and led 34-27 at halftime. To start the 2nd half, Hamilton quickly fell behind by 15 points and was never able to get back into the game. Hamilton’s Eli Taylor led the way with 15 points, and freshman Canaan Magness went 6 of 8 from the feld and scored 14 points. Asher Magness had 6 points and 5 rebounds, and Cole Dickemore added 5 points.

Hamilton 43, Billings Central 45

The Hamilton boys then faced Billings Central in the loser out game on Friday. The Broncs started slowly and fell behind 6-14 early in the game. Hamilton then went on a 23-9 run, behind hot shooting from Canaan Magness, and led 29-23 at the half. Both teams stepped up the defensive pressure in the 3rd quarter as Central outscored

Hamilton senior Eli Taylor led the Broncs with 15 points in their 44-60 loss to Lewistown on Thursday, March 9th. Lewistown would go on to win the Class A state title.

Hamilton 7-5, but Hamilton held a 34-30 lead going into the 4th. Central quickly tied the game in the 4th quarter, and it was neck and neck down the stretch, aided by big plays from Hamilton’s Cole Dickemore and Asher Magness. With 10 seconds left in the game, Central had the ball with the score tied 43-43. With time running out they shot a three-pointer that grazed the rim and slipped into the hands of a Central player who put it back in to give Central the 45-43 lead. Hamilton got the ball with 1.7 seconds left. In a crafty play, Hamilton passed the inbound pass just beyond half court and called a quick timeout. They now had the ball from half-court with 1.3 seconds left. Asher Magness got free but only had time for a long, fadeaway three-point attempt that fell short at the buzzer and Hamilton lost, 43-45.

Hamilton girls end successful season

The story of the Class A State girls tournament in Bozeman on March 9th-11th was the dominance of the teams from Eastern Montana. The Eastern A teams took all four places, and no team from the West beat a team from the East. The Hamilton girls lost, 49-71, in their frst round game against Billings Central on Thursday, March 9th. This sent them to a loser out game against Browning on Friday where they played a great game and won, 68-47. Finally, they played Laurel in

the consolation semifnal and lost, 58-62. This ended a successful season for the Lady Broncs where they took 2nd in divisionals and won a game at the state tournament. They will miss seniors Taryn Searle, Layne Kearns, and Alexes Brenneman, but the future looks bright for Hamilton as they have a strong group of girls coming back next year.

Hamilton 49, Billings Central 71

Hamilton senior Layne Kearns had a tremendous State tournament in Bozeman on March 9th-11th. Kearns had 30 points and 13 rebounds in Hamilton’s 68-47 victory over Browning. Photo by Scott Sacry.

In the frst round Hamilton lost to Billings Central, 49-71. The Lady Broncs started quickly behind a solid defensive efort and were up 21-13 early in

the game. Central couldn’t stop Layne Kearns going to the basket and she had 12 points in the 1st quarter. But from that point on, Central controlled the game. Over the next two quarters, Hamilton’s shooting went cold and they were outscored 17-37. They got on track in the 4th, but it was too late as Central rolled to the victory. Kearns led with 17 points, Taryn Searle had 13, Taylor McCarthy had 9, and Alexes Brenneman had 6. Hamilton 68, Browning 47

In Friday’s loser out game, Hamilton soundly defeated a talented Browning squad. Seniors Taryn Searle and Layne Kearns weren’t going to let their season end and put the team on their shoulders and willed them to victory. The frst half was even with Hamilton leading 34-29. Hamilton ramped up the defensive pressure after halftime, holding a high-powered Browning ofense to only 4 points in the third quarter and outscoring Browning 34-18 in the 2nd half. Taryn Searle got hot

from beyond the arc and hit 5 three-pointers and scored 20 points. Layne Kearns had a monster game with 30 points, 13 rebounds, 3 steals, and went 12-15 from the free throw line. Emilee Searle and Taylor McCarthy each added 5 points.

Hamilton 58, Laurel 62

On Saturday morning, Hamilton played Laurel. The teams were literally even in the frst half - it was tied 14-14 after one quarter and 27-27 at halftime. But to start the 3rd quarter Hamilton got fustered by Laurel’s full court press

Hamilton senior Taryn Searle had 20 points and hit 5 three pointers in the Lady Broncs’ 68-47 victory over Browning in the Class A state tournament. Photo by Scott Sacry.

and Laurel went on a 14-2 run and led 37-49 at the start of the 4th. It looked like Laurel was going to run away with the victory, but Hamilton fought back and went on a 11-2 run to start the 4th. Their full court press agitated Laurel, and with 4:30 left in the game they closed the gap to 48-51. But they would get no closer. Down the stretch the ball didn’t bounce Hamilton’s way and, although they fought hard, they lost in the end. Layne Kearns continued her excellent play and had 17 points, 16 rebounds, and 4 steals. Taryn Searle had 11 points, 4 assists and 2 steals, and Taylor McCarthy and Ashlynn McKern each added 10 points.

Stevi unveils athletic improvement center

The Stevensville School unveiled a state of the art Athletic Improvement Center (AIC) on Wednesday, March 8th. A diverse group of community members had given their time, efort, and donations to help establish the new facility and were honored with a frst look at the center.

The Stevensville School District was represented by Superintendent Dave Thennis, Principal Eric Larson, Athletic Director Brian Gum, and football head coach and teacher Trae Williams. “We want to thank all the donors who made this possible,” said Brian Gum, “as well as the Booster Club and Breanna Gum who worked

tirelessly to raise funds. Trae Williams did an amazing job throughout the whole process organizing everything.”

The Athletic Improvement Center will be named the John L. Munk weight room after the longtime Stevensville teacher and coach. The new facility consists of all new equipment including multiple squat racks and weight benches, free weights, cardio equipment, weight machines, an advanced sound system, and more. This center will give the high school athletic program the foundation it needs to build successful athletic programs.

The genesis for the project started four years ago when then Athletic

Director Chance Edman had the idea to raise funds to improve the existing weight room. Current athletic director Brian Gum then took the baton and with the help of the Stevensville

Booster Club went about raising the funds. In the end, nearly $60,000 was raised to complete the project. All the funds came from local donations from both individuals and businesses.

McCarthy BASKETBALL CAMP

For the good player who wants to be a GREAT player !

Registration deadline is Tuesday, July 11 (walk-ups accepted)

Monday, July 17 - Thursday, July 20 at Stevensville High School for Boys and Girls enter grades K-9 Boys 10 am - 12 pm | Girls 1-3 pm $75 per camper

Four days of instruction, water bottle, camp t-shirt and basketball.

For additional information call Frank McCarthy (307) 752-1103 or email frankmccarthy11@gmail.com

Coach McCarthy has been training athletes since 1979. This is a unique educational camp that is tailored to age and skill level.

Photo by Scott Sacry.

Hamilton brothers Asher (#14) and

Stevensville’s new Athletic Improvement Center was unveiled on March 8th to the community. It will be called the John L. Munk Weight Room. Photo by Scott Sacry.

TION. How can that be bad? In fact, if one is to control production, one must control consumption. That means you must control education. You can’t really control anyone that has private property, so personal ownership must go before you are successful in control. Hey, stop and consider, successful Socialism requires the control of every facet of our lives. Yep, it is the road to serfdom!

Ultimately, Socialism is either recognized and avoided as has been the Swedish experience in the past quarter century; or, it will evolve into its extreme continence such as Fascism or Communism. These are usually cast as far right or far left. This really doesn’t matter as they are just alike as far as you and I are concerned. Both are curses on mankind. Was Hitler a better or worse guy than Stalin? Both were evil. But, what matters is they were both Socialists. Remember the USSR (UNION OF SOVIET SOCIALIST REPUBLICS)? How about NAZI (NATIONAL SOCIALIST GERMAN WORKERS PARTY)? Note they both were Socialists!

I’m only trying to say that the lessons of history loudly proclaim that Socialism is a loser. Common man gets the lot of being a serf of the state. When, God help us, that day comes, the naive who advocated mild, democratic Socialism will be, as always, the frst to the wall.

Perhaps there is room here for a bit of humor. I recall a wonderful saying attributed to the workers under Communism. “They pretend to pay us—-we pretend to work.” Go fgure.

Ed Sperry, Col USAF (ret) Stevensville

Stopping a massacre!

The Founding Fathers knew two things for certain: frst, that there would come before us a nightmare of the most grievous kind. That is, a monstrous and tyrannical government that would unleash a destructive and miserable life.

The Founders of this country also knew that “we the people” would let it happen. Remember Franklin’s warning about “We gave you a Republic if you can keep it”? Tragically, we allowed it to drift away along with our freedoms and liberty.

We have spectacularly failed to triumph with a Republic and its superb means of control over the terror into which our destructive governments – both state and nationally – have driven us. Now we are asking in a terrifed voice, “What happened? To where did our liberty and freedoms disappear?”

The volatile bufoons in the Administration and the staggeringly stupid Congress we have now are out of control. We must gather the spunk to stop this renegade gaggle of fools from jeopardizing our Constitution any further. We can halt their wounding of the rule of law, their elitist control that dominates us efortlessly and marches us into debt that is close to breaking the country. We can halt their attempt to wreak havoc on our American way of life but only if we come together and work to regain our liberty.

How? Through the life-changing magic of Article V. We should be jubilant and rejoice in using the miraculous Constitution as the perfect solution to remove the abuse we are sufering. At the same time, we can power-up our national Constitution as we were directed to do by the fabulously intelligent Founding Fathers. Instead, we allow our legislators to vote AGAINST the Constitution and against us and our desire to become sovereigns once again.

The Founders knew the Constitution was NOT perfect, but these tremendously wise men gave us Article V to correct errors in that supreme document we call the Constitution rather than see us cower in fear of a government that forces us to obey their myriad rules and stunning laws that have harmed millions in our country.

We can triumph over the corrupt criminals in Washington by instituting the gathering of 34 states to thwart their actions. We must be tough, forceful, and grateful to God that we have Article V to unleash our authority as sovereign states to send an unforgettable message to congress and the administration.

ENOUGH is ENOUGH!

We will thrive and conquer if we come together and act now. Call your own state legislators and tell them to vote for SB211 when it comes to the legislative foor. That’s all you need to say. Unleash your grit and do it today! Call 406-444-4800. You will

be asked for name, address, phone by the switchboard, then which senators and/or representatives you want to contact. Give them this message: VOTE FOR SB211! Then give yourself a tremendous hug as you fnally are acting like the patriot you should be. YOU will have a legacy for you and yours forever in history! To fnd who your legislators are, go to http://leg. mt.gov and scroll down to “fnd your legislators.” Write the house and senate district down and their names on paper so you don’t forget them. Once a week send them the same message via telephone or email until they do as they should - listen to you as their constituents. It will be an eye-opening experience to learn what they value more… their addiction to power or their promise to work and fght for YOU!

Helen Sabin Corvallis

Noncitizen voting conundrum

Should noncitizens be allowed to vote? That seems to be the question before us in HB 402. Although it’s a bit vague, it clearly references noncitizens voting by line 13-16 of the bill, “requiring an applicant’s registration to be accepted and processed while citizenship verifcation is pending; and allowing a person whose registration has been accepted and processed to vote while citizenship verifcation is pending” (meaning they are a noncitizen at the time they vote).

In both the U.S. Constitution in Amendment XIV section 2 and the Montana Constitution in Article IV section 2, an elector must be a citizen in order to vote. As a matter of fact, in the Montana Code Annotated (the election law), 13-2-206 “Citizenship requirements: A person may not be permitted to register until the person attains United States citizenship.”

I did some research on the laws that Rep. Bedey referenced in his editorial and indeed the Federal law allows for the exemptions in this bill for all Federal Elections. When the Congress passed it and the Federal Courts upheld it, were they not thinking of their oath of ofce to uphold the Constitution? Seems obvious that voting rights are reserved for citizens only.

Now this becomes a moral/ethical issue. Should our State go against our constitution in order to catch the noncitizens who vote as the sponsors claim, or codify an unconstitutional law? I vote to take the high road and fnd another way to ‘catch’ those trying to defraud our system.

Dana Gentry Corvallis

Response to Knutson

Responding to Eric Knutson obsession with granting emergency powers to a Convention of States, this line of thought serves to distract us from the job at hand. We don’t need a COS to remove the heavy hand of the Federal unelected administrative state.

We all just experienced the bribing of every facet of our country with destructive results.

Eric, What makes you think a COS will be any diferent?

Bradley Williams Hamilton

On guard

An recent letter in another newspaper titled “Grand juries will create chaos” written by Marc Racicot, articulates the hidden agenda behind HB 405. This bill proposes an amendment to become part of the Montana Constitution for ever, in which a judge allows a grand jury of citizens to “better root out corruption and support limiting the ability of the Montana Supreme Court to abuse its power to protect itself.” In short, it is a “backdoor” attempt to circumvent our Montana State legislators, who make laws within our three branch Republic Government, pushed by fear mongering groups, who are arrogant enough to “know” they can be “arresting ofcers, judge and jury” over the rest of us.

HB 405 is being read in the Montana House Legislature now. Please contact House legislators who know enough to vote “NO” on HB 405.

Susan McCreary Stevensville

Penny-Nickel Plan

A penny cost 1.76¢ to produce. The US minted 14.8 billion pennies in 2020. A nickel cost 7.42¢ to produce. The US minted 1.094 billion nickels in 2019.

There is obviously a lack of common sense in our government which is on the verge of stupidity. We should have a penny/nickel plan. (A few plans have been introduced in Congress by Republicans.)

If the government quit minting 14.8 billion pennies each year the taxpayer would save: $26.048 BILLION per year

A quarter cost 11.14¢ to produce. The inner core is pure copper and the outer covering is copper mixed with nickel. If the government minted nickels with the same percentage of metals as used in quarters they would cost 2.231¢ each. This would save 5.11¢ each to mint a nickel. The US taxpayers would save: $5.59 BILLION each year

The Penny/Nickel Plan would save a total of: $31.638 billion per year. A buy back period of 10 years would be established. The metals in pennies collected would be used to produce the new nickel.

Richard Coleman Hamilton

We the People

The 2021 movie and 4th installment of the series, “God’s Not Dead,” calls attention to the matter of homeschooling and the fght for families to maintain their rights to educate their children as they see ft. The ending scene in which the pastor speaks in court defending parents’ rights nails on the head the state of our government and their overreach of the rights of “We The People,” not just regarding homeschooling, but in the lives of every American. He quotes, “Today was about turning neighbor against neighbor. That’s part of your plan, isn’t it? Keep us all divided. So bit by bit, we don’t realize you’re chipping away at our freedoms and liberties. You got us all talking about how Noah got all the animals on the ark. Meanwhile, you’re crafting legislation that will allow the government to barge into our homes because it’s all about power for you. And the only way that you can get more power is by taking it from someone else. And that would be all well and good if it wasn’t for

that pesky thing called the constitution that keeps getting in your way. (Judge interrupts). No, I’m not talking to you. I’m talking to the people who elected you. Because as inconvenient as it is, sir, this is where your power comes from! You see those statues and those monuments out there? They say, ‘You work for us! A government of the people, by the people, for the people.’ So stay out of our homes and churches. And yes, stay out of our children’s education. Because what you call teaching, Mr. Chairman, is really social engineering. Your history is being rewritten, biology is redefned, and right and wrong are erased. Our children don’t belong to the government and neither does our country. America belongs to its citizens, to each and all. To the farmers in Texas, to the window cleaners in New York, to the cabinet makers in Maine and the teachers in Oklahoma, to every man, woman, and child. It belongs to the people! We the people. Freedom is a fragile thing. It must be fought for and defended constantly by each generation.” AMEN.

Leslie Kulju Stevensville

Great paper but…

I enjoy reading the Bitterroot Star, it’s a great read. I am concerned about some of the letters that get published in the opinion section. Wednesday’s (3/1/23) opinion section contained an overabundance of Republican bald faced lies. I beg the editor to quit publishing this bull. The letters from Patti Franklin and Dee Gibney are examples. Gullible Bitterrooters actually believe this garbage. Franklin states among all her other lies that the covid vaccine is causing sudden death and cardiac arrest by the thousands every day. Then there are the lies by Gibney that you printed. Once again another confused Bitterrooter letting everyone know they don’t get out much and only believe Fox News. Republicans really are racists. Democrats and President Biden are doing a great job. Republicans are only hurting our great country with no plans for the good, only plans to stop those that are doing good. Many Bitterroot Republicans turned traitor by falling for that lying, no good, immoral sack Trump!

Richard Brodowy Florence

The fy fsher’s comfort and safety checklist

Let’s face it: even though we have to toughen up from time to time, and even though no outdoor excursion is without minor inconveniences, it’s no fun to be miserable out there. Best to plan against it.

As to safety, a common myth that needs to be busted, right in the chops, is this: the risk is half the fun, half the reward. Speaking as one who has survived a few close calls, no. Simply no. It’s not.

First things

frst: Take a First Aid course. Knowing what to do is your best option in case of a routine injury – that’s before we get to something serious.

Two, carry a frst aid kit.

by Chuck Stranahan

For a quick trip to the river I can get what I’ll likely need into a discarded prescription pill bottle.

For a longer trek afoot, there are some quality frst aid kits on the market selling for about $35 that are wellstocked, light, and take up about the same space as a sandwich baggie. For the boat, get a purpose-assembled and complete kit for about $100. Go ahead – spend the money. Don’t skimp for stuf that will be next to useless when you need it.

Other major safety/comfort items include good wading footwear that provides traction, support, and comfort. The choices are broad – ankle-high wading boots (recommended) with felt or lug and stud soles; you’ll also need polarized UV sunglasses,

The well-equipped fshing vest

The outside pockets of the vest are for fies, foatant, leader, tippet, and hardware – nipper, hook hone, and hemostat.

The inside pockets are reserved for

sunscreen, insect repellant, a small lighter, and the pill-bottle frst aid kit. It contains a half-roll of antacids, a few analgesics and antihistamines, personal meds, a smal container of antibiotic ointment, and three wide band-aids.

If anything happens on the stream that this kit won’t cover, I need to get of the water and get medical attention.

Also in the inside pockets: a fresh sealed pack of tissues. If needed for facial use, they go in another inside pocket to be disposed of back at the rig.

If needed for something other than facial use, I dig or kick a divot large enough to fully conceal everything several inches deep in an out-of-the-way location, and once fnished, completely cover it up. The operative here: Leave no trace.

Other essential gear

For me, a small tablet and pencil and reading material complete the inside pocket checklist.

The reading material might be a small pocket-sized feld guide to fies and hatches, birds and fowers, fshing strategies and knots, plants and trees. Reading in the shade is a great way to spend an afternoon lull, and what is learned adds to the appreciation on future trips.

In the back sling pocket, right under the landing net on its magnetic retainer, are at least one insulated water bottle (carry twice as much water as you think you’ll need,) high-energy snacks or lunch, and raingear. As I peel layers of clothing they can be stufed back there, or packed there for the afternoon and evening.

The emergency all-purpose knife

Also, within easy reach on the outside of the vest I carry a clip knife with a 3” or better locking serrated combo blade. A decent one will have a solid locking mechanism and be easy to open. The blade will be broad and sharp. It need not be expensive. The serrated portion is good for hacking through anything that won’t yield to polite cutting, and you’ll want to keep the front portion sharp. A dull knife blade can be a an embarrassment or worse.

I remember a time when the sharp knife I usually carry departed from my lunch gear. I made do with my vest knife, forgetting that I had dulled it. My urban client watched as his salami refused at every step to yield to the blade. It tasted the same as neat

thin slices after you chewed it a bit, but the thick mashed salami lumps under lopsided shingles of cheese didn’t make quite as nice a presentation.

The unbroken crackers preserved what was left of civilized decorum, though.

Last but not least: tech

Cameras and cell phones go in purpose-built, heavy, water-tight, locking containers. NRS makes good ones and there are several NRS dealers in the greater Missoula area. Baggies or cheapo containers simply won’t do. A drowned cell phone – especially when you need it most – is easily avoided and the waterproof case is worth the tarif.

GROW WITH US!

Local Bounti is one of the fastest growing indoor farming companies in the U.S. We are looking for local Montana talent like you to help grow our delicious leafy greens for your family & community.

COME SEE WHAT THE EXCITEMENT IS ABOUT! *(Includes

When you go out, there’s peace of mind in knowing you’re well prepared. Photo courtesy Chuck Stranahan.

MUD: Ranger dist. to hold public workshop for feedback and questions

Continued from page 5 recently completed the draft plan for the Nez/Mud area and is seeking public feedback on the proposal.

The Forest Service developed the proposed units and activities as a starting point based on existing conditions, feld surveys and the parameters of the decision. There are still opportunities to change or adapt unit locations and activities based on the public’s feedback. The goal is to gather input from the public, collaborators, and partners to develop a plan that will meet the purpose and need for the project and move the area towards the

desired conditions.

For more information about the project including a draft Nez/Mud implementation map visit https://www. fs.usda.gov/project/?project=55744. Themap and draft unit tables are to be used in combination with the project design features (Appendix A-Design Features), to provide detail about the potential activities proposed for each unit. These documents are posted in the Implementation folder on the project website. Hard copies of the draft plan are also available by calling the West Fork Ranger District at

406-821-3269.

The Bitterroot Community Wildfre Protection Plan has identifed the project area as a ‘high priority’ for fuels reduction. In addition, the Montana Forest Action Plan identifes the area as having high wildfre risk to communities and infrastructure. Of particular concern is increased fre risk because 43% of the project area is located within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI).

The project proposes a suite of road and trail system changes, vegetation treatments, improved recreation opportunities, and

prescribed fre. It will also provide opportunities for cross-boundary fuels reduction with state and private partners to enhance forest health on both public and private lands. Project planning was completed with participation and input from local collaborative organizations and partners including the Ravalli County Collaborative, Bitterroot Forest Collaborative, and Ravalli County Of Road Users Association.

If you are unable to attend the workshop, you can still provide input or feedback. Electronic comments can be

submitted via email toDaniel.pliley@usda.gov. If you wish to comment in writing, mail your comments to: West Fork Ranger District, Attn: Dan Pliley, 6735 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829. Please submit comments by April 7, 2023. Implementation of the fnal plan for the Nez/Mud area is anticipated to begin later this spring. For additional information contact Dan Pliley, West Fork District Ranger at 406821-1212 or Matt Shaefer, Project Manager at 406-3637120. Stay in touch with us through www.facebook.com/ DiscoverTheBitterroot.

Former Stevi residents win Montana Book Award

by John Dowd

Montana is often described as a place with such natural beauty that it moves and inspires people, or so would be said by the authors of On a Benediction of Wind. The book pairs photography and poetry pertaining to the natural world and was conceived and based on the Bitterroot Valley and Stevensville. The piece was recently awarded 2022 Montana Book Award of the year. Photographer Barbara Michelman, and writer Charles Finn, worked for some time to create, what they describe, as a “good meal” paired with a “fne wine.”

According to Michelman, the book is “a combination of poetry and pho-

tography so that they are in conversation with eachother.” Both contributors explained that each photo and poetry piece took quite a while to pair. However, when the right match was made, there was a “collective aha,” as described by Michelman.

Michelman has a background in flm lighting and loves photographing nature, especially the pacifc fyway. Charles has already published another book: a nonfction, featuring wildlife encounters. He is also co-editing a poetry textbook with former Oregon poet laureate Kim Staford.

The piece begins with a preface about the book and it’s inception, and has over 100 pages of photos and poems about Montana, the Pacifc

Northwest and American southwest. All the images are black and white and the poems are a combination of pros and free verse.

Finn mentioned that there is a mysterious couple featured that is not based on anyone in particular. He explained that they are imaginary and are meant to fnd connection with anyone the reader chooses.

The idea for the coordinated efort came from a party in Stevensville where the two met. According to Finn, it was the former Stevensville Mayor at the time,Gene MimMac, who suggested they work on a piece together. “This book is really rooted in Stevensville,” said Michelman.

Both lived in the area for a time and both enjoyed fnding refuge in nature. “Just to be out wandering in the woods or by the river, that’s where I fnd solas rejuvenation,” said Finn. “It is mostly about the stillness,” added Michelman.

After moving their separate ways,

the two decided that they should fnally fnish the book. The idea of how they were going to go about making it came from reverse transfer images Michelman had been working on. They were images imposed on aluminum plates in black and white. She referred to these as “tin types.” Working together, either playing of Michelman’s images, or pairing pictures with poems written by Finn, the fnal book was fnished following a long back and forth.

The book was published in August of 2022, and the publisher nominated it for the award. One among over 30 other submissions of various genres, it was voted on by nine committee members. The two contributors of On a Benediction of Wind received notice that they were to receive the award Wednesday, March 1. They will ofcially receive the award in Billings on April 12.

For those interested in reading the book, it can be found on Amazon, at chatwinbooks.com, or at Fact and Fiction bookstore in Missoula.

Booked for the season

“The Teachers: A Year Inside America’s Most Vulnerable, Important Profession” by Alexandra Robbins c.2023, Dutton

$29.00 384 pages

Raise your hand.

That’s probably one of the frst things you learned when you started school. You couldn’t yell for the teacher, tug on her dress or be any kind of a wild child. You had to remain civilized, calm, and orderly, and you raised your hand when you wanted attention. And in the new book, “The Teachers” by Alexandra Robbins, times sure have changed.

If you close your eyes, you can remember the exact layout of your favorite teacher’s classroom. Whether it was sixty years ago or two, you recall where the Flag was, where your desk sat, and where the coats went. As a journalist, Alexandra Robbins has

written about classrooms like that, and students in them. Here, she steps to the front of a class by following three teachers in three diferent areas, to get an idea of what today’s teachers experience.

Elementary school students in her East Coast classroom never knew when Rebecca Abrams was going to break out in song. That made learning fun, and Ms. Abrams’ students loved her for that, as much as she loved them. What she didn’t love was that after-school requirements of her job meant absolutely no time for a personal life, no dating, no hobbies, no pets.

In a school in the South, 6th grade math teacher Penny Davis taught students in the same school district where she had once attended, which was not as happy as it sounds. Living and working in a small town where everyone knows everyone else also meant that Mrs. Davis dealt with

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gossip and Mean Girls, both in the classroom and out.

Over on the western side of the country, Miguel Garcia was overwhelmed with paperwork for his middle school Special Ed students. The fght to give his students the best education was one thing he tackled; the community fght to keep the school open was another. And the district kept adding more special-needs students to Garcia’s classroom...

Reading, wRiting, and ‘Rithmetic are what the old song says a kid will get from “School Days.” Once you’ve read “The Teachers,” you’re going to need to add another “R”: Respect.

Starting with the excitement of a frst day of school in August, author Alexandra Robbins sets readers down in three rambunctious classrooms and gives us a series of frsthand lessons on giving lessons – but what happens with the students is only half the story. The other half is eye-opening and should make parents take notice: shared with a complete lack of drama, Robbins uncovered waves of frustration, discontent, worrisome observations, and scary incidents from both public and private school teachers. These behind-the-whiteboard anecdotes should make readers want very much to use Robbins’ ideas for teacher appreciation.

There are educators in this book who love their careers so very much but who know that they can’t, for their own good, stay in

the profession. There are students you’ll want to reach into these pages and hug.

And your heart will be broken by “The Teachers.”

by Terry Schichenmeyer The Bookworm Sez, LLC

Want a good book? Raise your hand.

Advanced Imaging has added a 3D™ Digital Mammography facility in Stevensville. While taking away worries about cancer in the process. The procedure takes less than 15 minutes and walk-ins are welcome.

RAT TERRIER PUPPIES. Smart and sweet. $600. Call 417-312-1000. Hamilton.

HELP WANTED

WANTED: PART-TIME

AUTO TECHINICIAN. Experience with wiring, light mechanic duty and body assembly on classic vehicles preferred. Salary DOE. Contact 406-273-0002.

GRAPHIC DESIGNER WANTED Part-time. Experienced only. Must be profcient in Adobe Creative Suite, including InDesign, Photoshop, etc. Good pay to the right person. Email: victoria@ mullennewspapers.com

COOK WANTEDPart-time cook neded for Elks Lodge in Hamilton. Call 406-241-6370. Salary commensurate with experience.

NORTH VALLEY PUBLIC LIBRARY in Stevensville is hiring a Library Assistant (Part-Time). Great opportunity for the right local candidate if you love books, libraries, HELPING PEOPLE and have EXCELLENT COMPUTER SKILLS. Please visit the careers page on our website for complete details and how to apply.

WANT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE for moms and babies in Montana?

Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies-MT is hiring an

Executive Director. Learn more at www.hmhb-mt.org

HIRING WEATHERIZATION POSITIONS, program manager $20-$28

DOE and weatherization crew member at $18-$22/ hour, full benefts. Full job description at Lewistown Job Service or https:// www.hrdc6.org/jobs

Corrine Campbell, Physical Therapy/ Myofascial Release, 406-777-2679. Elizabeth Harper-Schurman, Counseling, Coaching, Hypnotherapy. 406-3042517. 5501 Hwy 93N, Ste. 101, Florence, MT.

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

HORSE TRIMMING. 30+ years experience. (406) 363-8956.

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

Legal Notices

NOTICE OF FILING FOR TRUSTEE CANDIDATES:

Lone Rock School District# 13 is looking to fll two (2) Trustee positions each for a 3-year term. If interested in being part of a board that has a focus on high quality education, please fle by March 23, 2023 by 4:00pm with the Business Manager/ Clerk at Lone Rock School –(406) 777-3314. Forms can be found on the school website. BS 2-15, 3-15-23.

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County

In the Matter of the Name Change of Sarah Lavonne Sargent, Sarah Lavonne Sargent, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-23-51

Dept. 1 NOTICE OF HEARING

ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Sarah Lavonne Sargent to Sarah Lavonne Gingerich-Sargent.. The hearing will be on March 29, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 15th day of February, 2023.

Paige Trautwein

Clerk of Court

BY: Barbara Beavers

Deputy Clerk of Court BS 2-22, 3-1, 3-8, 3-1523.

LEGAL NOTICE

Guardianship Hearing –Chavez

MONTANA TWEN-

TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT, RAVALLI COUNTY

In the Matter of Guardianship of Mahalani A Aina Artemis Chavez, Duane Dee and Leeann Lynn Dufresne, Petitioners Case No. DG-23-10

NOTICE OF GUARDIAN-

SHIP HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the guardianship hearing will be held on March 23, 2023 at 1:30 pm in Ravalli County District Court #2, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton.

Jennifer B. Lint District Court Judge BS 3-1, 3-8, 3-15-23.

David T. Markette

Dustin M. Chouinard

Megan S. Winderl MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C.

601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110

DavidM@mcpcattorneys. com Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWEN-

TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT

COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY

In the Matter of the Estate of ELLYN PALMER JONES, Deceased.

Probate No. DP -23-15

Dept. No. 1

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to DOUGLAS W. SMITH, the Personal Representative, in care of MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct.

DATED this 17th day of February, 2023.

/s/ Douglas W. Smith

MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, PC

By: David T. Markette,

Attorney for Personal Representative BS 3-8, 3-15, 3-22-23.

Craig Mungas

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

Telephone: 406-721-8896

Telefax: 406-541-8037

Email: craig@bjornsonlaw. com

TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: RUSSELL D. SWINGER, Deceased. Dept. No.: 2 Cause No.: DP-23-16

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 (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to BRENNA SWINGER, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at c/o Bjornson Jones Mungas, PLLC, 2809 Great Northern Loop, Suite 100, Missoula, MT 59808, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 24th day of February 2023.

/s/ Brenna Swinger

Personal Representative Bjornson Jones Mungas, PLLC By: Craig Mungas

Attorneys for Brenna Swinger, Personal Representative BS 3-8, 3-15, 3-22-23.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DAVID JAMES MOAK, Deceased. Case No.: DP-23-20

Dept. No. 2

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to DANIEL JACOB MOAK, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 23rd day of February, 2023.

/s/ Daniel Jacob Moak, Personal Representative BS 3-8,3-15, 3-22-23.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING BEFORE THE HAMILTON ZONING BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT

Conditional Use Permit

(CUP) Request #2023-01, 221 Lyndale Avenue – Applicants Travis Zollinger and Ari Watt, represented by Sherry Shipley of All Access Montana Realty, Inc. and with authorization of property owner Mission Gorge Develop Co. as represented by Kari Beckley, request to use the subject property for a CNC [computerized numerical control] machining business. This request falls under Sections 17.74.040(A) and 17.68.040(N) of the Hamilton Municipal Code, which allow “Manufacturing and production (…with light industrial)” subject to a public hearing and approval of a CUP. The property is a developed lot located at 221 Lyndale Avenue, identifed by Ravalli County Tax ID # 607000 and legally described as Lot 3-A, Amended Subdivision Plat No. 999, being a portion of Lots 1, 2, 3 and 4, Block 44, Calumet Addition, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the ofcial recorded plat thereof. The purpose of this public hearing is to take comment on and consider the proposed conditional use.

The Hamilton Zoning Board of Adjustment will hold a public hearing on this matter Monday, March 27, 2023 at 5:30 PM at City Hall, 223 South 2 nd Street,

nd Floor, Hamilton, MT. The public may attend and make comment in person, or on the Internet / by phone through Zoom. Instructions are available at www.cityofhamilton.net or by contacting mrud@cityofhamilton.net.

Written comments may be emailed to the Planning Department at mrud@ cityofhamilton.net, or mailed or hand delivered to 223 South 2 nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. Application and related materials are available by contacting the Planning Department.

BS 3-8, 3-15-23.

John D. Greef Attorney at Law 302 W. Main St. Sidney, MT 59270 (406) 360-8117

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Diana Lee Davis a/k/a Diane Lee Davis, Deceased. Cause No. DP-41-202324 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to John D. Greef, attorney for the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, 302 W. Main Street, Sidney, MT 59270, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 7th day of March, 2023.

/s/ Rolla V. Ward, Personal

Representative

BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

William J. Nelson, Esq.

Nelson Law Ofce PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840

Telephone: (406) 363-3181

MONTANA TWENTY

FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: OLEN RALPH ELLIOTT, Deceased. Cause No. DP-23-19

Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, William J. Nelson, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled

with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 8th day of March, 2023.

/s/ William J. Nelson

Personal Representative BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

ANNUAL SCHOOL ELECTION PETITIONS of Stevensville School District No. 2, Ravalli County, Montana for the Election of two (2) trustees for a (3) year term for the Stevensville Elementary/High school district and one (1) trustee for a (1) year term for the Stevensville Elementary/High school district. The petitions can be picked up at 300 Park Street, Stevensville, MT at the Superintendent Ofce or the Business Ofce. Deadline for petitions is March 23, 2023 by 4:00 p.m.

Sincerely, William F. Schiele Business Manager/Clerk BS 3-15-23.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212

Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060

Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SHARON T. GIVENS, Deceased.

Case No.: DP-23-25

Dept. No. 1

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Naomi J. Cheeney, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 7th day of March, 2023.

/s/ Naomi Cheeney, Personal Representative BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BUENA VIOLET NEAL, Deceased.

Case No.: DP-23-23

Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned

has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

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

DATED this 7th day of March, 2023.

/s/ Robert James Neal, Personal Representative BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Stephanie J. Trollope, Stephanie J. Trollope, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-23-67

Dept. 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Stephanie J. Trollope to Stephanie J. Shelton.

The hearing will be on April 13, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 3rd day of March, 2023. Paige Trautwein Clerk of Court BY: Barbara Beavers

Deputy Clerk of Court BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29, 4-5-23.

HAMILTON – WATER RIGHTS CLAIM AMENDMENTS Notice Westside Subbasin (76HF) Water Users:

YC Properties, LLC has fled a Motion to Amend Claims 76H 147812-00 and 76H 214439-00. YC Properties LLC seeks to amend the point of diversion and the place of use of both claims by adding an ofstream reservoir in the W2SE of Section 35, T6N, R21W, Ravalli County and by expanding the place of use from the SENWSE to the S2SE of Section 35, T6N, R21W, Ravalli County.

The entirety of Claimant’s motion may be viewed on the Montana Water Court webpage at: https://courts.mt.gov/ courts/water/Notices-Info/ PublicNotices

OBJECTION DATE

In accordance with Section 85-2-233(6), MCA, any response or objection to the YC Properties LLC’s Motion to Amend claims 76H 147812-00 and 76H 21443900 must be fled with the Montana Water Court within 45 days of the last publication of this notice, or May 13, 2023. Please indicate “CASE 76HF-6002-P-2023” on any

response, objection, or other correspondence regarding this Motion to Amend. BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

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

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY JEAN MILLER, Deceased. Case No.: DP-23-22 Dept. No. 1

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

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

DATED this 7th day of March, 2023.

/s/ Robert Neil Miller, Personal Representative BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STANLEY A. KASTENS, Deceased.

Case No.: DP-23-21 Dept. No. 2

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

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

Claims must either be mailed to Carol Harper, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 2nd day of March, 2023. /s/ Carol Harper, Personal Representative BS 3-15, 3-22, 3-29-23.

Governor makes Montana debt-free, invests in infrastructure

On the steps of the State Capitol, Governor Greg Gianforte today signed a bill into law to pay of the state’s general obligation debt, making Montana debtfree in ’23. The governor also made a historic investment to repair Montana’s roads and bridges.

Both measures are elements of Governor Gianforte’s Budget for Montana Families.

“After providing Montanans with over $1 billion in tax relief, we’re going to invest our surplus responsibly like any Montana family would, making needed repairs and paying of our debt,” Gov. Gianforte said. “Today, we’re making Montana debt-free in ‘23, saving Montanans $40 million over the next two years. We’re also investing $100 million from our surplus to repair our roads and bridges, leveraging federal dollars for critical infrastructure

projects.”

In his Budget for Montana Families, Gov. Gianforte introduced a proposal to use the state’s surplus to pay of all general obligation debt. Rep. Llew Jones,

Rep. Jones’ bill, HB 251, makes Montana debt-free in 2023, saving Montana taxpayers $40 million over the next two years on principal and interest payments.

The governor today also made a historic investment to repair the state’s roads and bridges, signing into law the SAFER Montana Roads and Bridges Fund, which is part of the governor’s budget.

“Too often, the state leaves federal dollars on the table. Our historic investment to repair our infrastructure will allow us to better leverage federal funds,” Gov. Gianforte said.

tana’s roads and bridges.

“Montanans should be able to get where they need to go safely and efciently,” Rep. Sprunger said. “Thank you to the governor for his visionary leadership on this transformational investment for our state.”

The legislature is currently considering other proposals in the governor’s Budget for Montana Families which responsibly invest the surplus. These proposals include repairing long-neglected state facilities, tripling the fre suppression fund and doubling the rainy-day fund, investing in local disaster resiliency, and expanding water and sewer infrastructure to increase the supply of housing in Montana.

Crossword Puzzle

R-Conrad, carried the proposal through the legislature.

“It’s a historic moment in the life of an individual when they pay of their house loan, when they pay of a business loan. I’m pleased to be a part of the efort to be able to say that Montana is now debt-free of general obligation bonds in 2023,” Rep. Jones said.

Rep. Courtenay Sprunger, R-Kalispell, carried HB 267 to establish the SAFER Montana Roads and Bridges Fund.

Leveraging up to nine federal dollars for every one state dollar, the SAFER Fund will invest $100 million to repair Mon-

Gov. Gianforte, seated next to Rep. Llew Jones, signs HB 251 into law, making Montana debt-free in ‘23