We Sell
licenSeS
PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID STEVENSVILLE MT PERMIT 89
777-2822 4039 HWY 93 N STEVENSVILLE
OUTLET STORE
For all your ammunition & Hunting needS
www.ammoandmorestore.com
Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!”
’ ! l a c o L est at
‘The B
Hurry In! Stock up Today ALL Napa Gold Filters on SALE until March 24th
CORVALLIS NAPA AUTO PARTS 1001 Main Street, Corvallis . 961-3031
Volume XXXV, Number 35
Coronavirus
Established 1985 – Locally owned & independent
Preparing for COVID-19
By Michael Howell
An electron microscope image of 2019-nCoV (yellow), the virus that causes COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S., emerging from the surface of cells (blue/pink) cultured in the lab. Credit: NIAID-RML.
Coronavirus outbreak declared state and national emergency
By Michael Howell
On Friday, President Trump declared the coronavirus outbreak a national emergency. That action will free up close to $42.5 billion in federal funds to use in addressing the crisis. After being exposed to several people who have since tested positive for the coronavirus COVID-19, the President has also been tested and gotten a negative report. Montana Senator Steve Daines has been leading the efforts in Congress to respond to the coronavirus outbreak. He presented his proposal and ideas to the President two weeks ago.
Last Thursday, he introduced bipartisan legislation to provide disaster unemployment assistance to people who are unable to work due to the current coronavirus outbreak. Assistance would be available to individuals, including self-employed individuals and independent contractors, who are sick, quarantined, furloughed, or whose family circumstances keep them from working or reduce their pay as a result of the coronavirus outbreak or government containment efforts. Daines also urged Trump to take swift action to make testing for the coronavirus affordable. The IRS announced the next day
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
it would adopt Daines’ proposal to remove financial barriers to testing and treatment for the coronavirus by allowing high deductible health plans to cover coronavirus-related testing and treatment before a patient has met their deductible. He unveiled a slate of proposals and priorities he’s working to advance that will help protect Montana families and their finances during the coronavirus outbreak including paid leave, temporarily waiving payroll taxes, providing relief from tariffs, and ensuring access to affordable testing.
See EMERGENCY, page 3
On Saturday, March 14, Montana finally joined the rest of the nation as the first reports were issued of people testing positive for COVID-19, the coronavirus that is sweeping through the United States at an alarming pace. That it would arrive here was inevitable, according to the scientists at the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). The big question is, “Are we prepared?” Actively preparing for the arrival of such a highly contagious and rapidly spreading infection before it arrives, it turns out, is one of the best things a community can do. If you can’t prevent the influx of the infection, then you do what you can to mitigate the impacts when it does arrive. It is something like nailing plywood sheets across the windows of your house in preparation for a hurricane. It feels a bit foolish to be boarding up your house on a bright, calm sunny day, but it is being done to prepare for the worst. What’s coming is not exactly like a hurricane, but there is reason to be especially concerned with this “flu-like” virus because it is not a flu virus, it is a coronavirus. And a “novel” form of coronavirus at that, brand new to humans. Another novelty is the extremely high infection rate, high death rate and high rate of spread. The World Health Organization has recognized it as a pandemic. The most lethal pandemic to hit the United States was the 1918 Spanish flu. The CDC estimates that about 500 million people or one-third of the world’s population became infected with that virus. The number of deaths was
estimated to be at least 50 million worldwide with about 675,000 occurring in the United States. The Institute for Disease Modeling at CDC calculated that the new coronavirus is roughly equally transmissible as the 1918 flu, and just slightly less clinically severe, and it is higher in both transmissibility and severity compared with all other flu viruses in the past century. The CDC has also modelled a worst case scenario if no interventions and no acts of mediation at all are taken, that 160 million to 214 million people in the U.S. could be infected. The projections suggest that 2.4 million to 21 million people in the U.S. could require hospitalization, potentially crushing the nation’s medical system, which has only about 925,000 staffed hospital beds, in an outbreak that could last months or even over a year. But, according to Lauren Gardner, an associate professor at the Johns Hopkins Whiting School of Engineering who models epidemics, when people change their behavior those model parameters are no longer applicable, so shortterm forecasts are likely to be more accurate. “There is a lot of room for improvement if we act appropriately,” said Gardner. Dr. Anthony Fauci, director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, speaking at a congressional hearing last Thursday, said that what will determine the ultimate death count “will be how you respond to it with containment and mitigation.” Some things that could serve to flatten the infection rate curve include increased testing, trac-
ing contacts of infected people, and limiting social interactions by banning large gatherings and encouraging people to stay home and take simple precautions such as frequently washing your hands and not touching your face. The funds needed to help local communities in the United States prepare for and endure this massive pandemic were freed up Friday when President Trump declared the outbreak to be a national emergency. Dr. Fauci said that Mr. Trump’s declaration of a national emergency had cleared the way for a concerted, effective response to the virus. “Now it’s all systems go,” he said, adding that “as we get knowledge about new testing, we’ll alleviate the anxiety that we have in the world about, we don’t know what’s going on, but also it will give the individual physician and individual citizen the opportunity to know where they stand.” All levels of government are trying to form a unified voice and unified approach to try and slow the outbreak down and try and keep medical facilities from being overwhelmed. The top orchestrator of the effort is the Centers for Disease Control and that is probably the best source for people to look for information on how the disease is progressing and what steps they can take to mitigate the impacts. https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html https://dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/cdepi/diseases/coronavirusmt Local efforts to address the coming crisis are concentrated in the Ravalli County Health See PREPARING, page 3
Credit: Vox
Source: CDC
This graph shows the importance of using protective measures to slow the outbreak so that the health care system can adequately deal with the pandemic. “Flatten the curve” has become a rallying cry to remind people to wash hands often, cover sneezes and coughs, practice social distancing, and stay home when sick.
Resolution to suspend Stevi council member withdrawn By Michael Howell
At the March 12 Stevensville Town Council meeting, the agenda item considering the suspension of Council President Bob Michalson was withdrawn from the record at the request of Council member Dempsey Vick who, along with Council member Jaime Devlin had it placed on the agenda for consideration. Vick said that it was a mistake to seek the suspension because the council should begin dealing with these kinds of issues at the lowest possible level. As a secondary motion Vick moved to consider how to handle the issue of addressing complaints about a council member from other council members or staff at the next Committee of the Whole
meeting. “We need to hammer out a process by which we can deal with grievances amongst one another,” said Vick. Council member Devlin said that she had heard a lot of troubling comments about Michalson’s behavior but was ready to give him the benefit of the doubt until she received a text message from him that day. “If our staff is treated like I was today, at best I don’t feel like you have any right to be sitting at this table,” said Devlin. She said it was their duty under the personnel policy to make sure that staff and department heads don’t have to work in a hostile work environment. “Do you even know the
rules and duties of a councilman?” asked Michalson. “Do you know the process that put us here?” He said he has not been shown any documentation or evidence about the allegations against him. He stated that he thought the process wasn’t being followed and stated that it didn’t happen this time because the Mayor actually wrote the resolution to suspend him. Mayor Brandon Dewey stated that the meeting was not a trial and it was not the venue to elaborate on the details of allegations or to defend against them. He said the motion on the floor was to consider establishing a grievance process at the next Committee of the Whole meeting. “You need a fair shake,” Dewey said to Michalson. The
motions to withdraw the suspension agenda item and to place the issue of the grievance procedure on the agenda of the next COW meeting were approved on votes of 3-1 with Councilor Devlin dissenting in both cases. Mayor Dewey stated that the current grievance procedure allows for employees to file a grievance against their department head and it would be taken to the Mayor, but the behavior of an elected official is not addressed in the policy. “My office has no disciplinary authority over the council,” said Dewey. He said there is no process described in the policy for a council person to resolve a grievance against another council person or for an employee to
make a grievance against a council person. The next COW meeting, which had been scheduled for March 19, has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 state of emergency. A second controversial issue tackled by the Council was the issue of a service agreement with the IT company First Call, which Mayor Dewey signed on December 12, 2019 without Council permission and without placing it out for bid. Town Attorney Scott Owens gave a preliminary opinion based on the facts that were available but without having researched it completely, stating “There has been See STEVI, page 2
Correction
In last week’s story about the Stevensville Town Council agenda item considering suspension of Council President Bob Michalson, it was incorrectly reported that: “Town Finance Officer Robert Underwood said that he felt threatened when Michalson told him that he could make things very hard on him if he refused to do what Michalson was asking.” The threat was not made by Mr. Michalson, but by a member of the public. The Bitterroot Star apologizes for the error.
Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Stevi
continued
Decrease your risk of exposure to illness by using our Drive-up Window
no violation of Montana Law or Town Ordinance by entering into a non-binding agreement with First Call.” He said the issue does land in “grey zone” based on ambiguity in the statutes and the Town’s purchasing policy. “Plainly put,” he states, “Montana law has a process for bidding when dealing with “other than professional, technical, engineering, or legal services. This bidding process does not apply to IT services. Therefore, we go back to the Town Ordinance and the Purchasing Policy.” Owens went on to say that “based on the dilemma we are in now, I would advise that these larger agreements be brought before council in the future. It is also understood that the purchasing policy will be revised and may address these issues. However, at this point, the current purchasing policy coupled with the contemplated budget allows for department heads and the mayor to purchase services outside secondary council approval.” He said the issue was brought to his office last Thursday (March 5), and he did not have time to conduct the research prior to the March 12 council meeting. He said with little research time invested, he advised the Mayor and Mr. Michalson of an alterna-
We can also get any over the counter products for you at the window! Call in your refills
Download our app and sign up to receive text notification letting you know you Rx is ready for pick up
3804 Eastside Hwy • Stevensville • 777-5002
CUSTOMER APPRECIATION PARTY! Sat, April 4th ALL DAY - Festivities 4-8pm After Party starting at 9pm at the TIN CAN SALES • SHOOT OFF Reps from Hoyt & Stone Glacier Food from Big Sky Grub Truck Tin Can Mixing Drinks
tive remedy to address the issue without getting into the weeds: “I advised that this matter should be brought before the council simply to: 1) educate the council on what the service agreement was; and 2) to decide whether this was an expense that the Town would continue to accept. As I understand, the Town has the ability to terminate this agreement. If the Town decided it was a necessary service, council would exercise their consent. If not, the Town could elect to terminate. Either way, the issue would have been simply addressed. Council should be commended on excising their fiscal responsibilities in addressing this issue. “However, advise was additionally given to warn/deter accusations of wrong-doing prior to my legal review.” There was a discussion about the security of the town’s system if the contract with the company was dismissed. Most of the Council disagreed with the attorney’s opinion that the Mayor’s action in signing the agreement without bringing it back before the council was not a violation of the law. They voted 3-1 with Councilor Devlin dissenting to cancel the contract. But they voted 4-0 to pay the $1,200 bill for the work already done. The Council also asked the Mayor to develop and advertise a Request for Proposals to try to get some competitive bids for IT services.
At the close of the meeting Michalson spoke, saying “I’m deeply saddened at the fact that I came back to council and I tried really hard to get along with Mayor Dewey. As soon as I started doing my diligent duty and tried to get hold of that contract I had two council members with Mayor Dewey, I had a city attorney that wouldn’t talk to me on the phone, a newspaper ragging on me all over town. Why? What did I do? I was just doing my diligent duty to get a contract. Then all of a sudden kaboom, I have this complaint against me for all these different things. I’m shocked and like, what’s going on here? I did my duty and now everybody is punishing me for it. That’s just sad. It’s so sad. And you should be ashamed too, Scott. I called you a Friday ago and asked you about the question of being suspended without pay and you couldn’t get off the phone fast enough. That hurt me. I’m the Council President. Then I see that him and her got emails but me and Robin didn’t…” Mayor Dewey said, “Mr. Michalson, I’m going to have to ask you to refrain from attacking an individual. “I’m not attacking,” said Michalson. “I think you are,” said Dewey. “All right, I’m done here,” said Michalson.
porary changes to Town service delivery until further notice. The public service window at Town Hall is closed, however, staff will be available to answer phone calls at 777-5271. Payments for Town services can be made in the following ways: • Water/Sewer: Pay online at https://www.townofstevensville. com by clicking on pay online. Use the drop box at 206 Buck St. Mail payments to P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, 59870. Pay by phone at 777-5271. • Dog and chicken licenses:
Pay online at https://www.townofstevensville.com/clerk/page/ animal-licenses by clicking on pay online. Use the drop box at 206 Buck St. By phone, call 777-5271 or 777-3773. • City Court Payments: Use the drop box at 206 Buck St. or online at: https://www.citepayusa. com Other information: Call 7775271 or 777-3773 Building Code Enforcement will continue to conduct inspections by appointment. Building
Stevi announces changes in services Due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, effective immediately all non-essential Town of Stevensville meetings are canceled or postponed. This includes advisory board meetings, planning meetings and other meetings that are not legally required. The Town Council will not meet on March 19 or hold committee meetings that week. Council meetings will continue with a very limited agenda for essential business only; check the Town’s website at www.townofstevensville.com. The following are tem-
406.304.6715 • 3901 Hwy 93 • Stevensville (behind subway off 93) straight6archery.com
See SERVICES, page 11
Delivery Service Monday-Friday 777-4663
Sale good thru 03/24/20
Give the gift of food; A BFM Gift Card!
Stay Calm!! The Fork will Deliver with Local Savings! At the Fork we will do what we can to get through this, in the mean time do not panic. Wash yyour hands, eat healthy, exercise, and stay hydrated. Watch a good movie or read a book. This is a good time to clean out your cupboards. Remember you need a two week supply, not a two year supply. We will deliver groceries, if needed Monday through Friday. Just give us a call before noon & we will pick it & deliver! Stay calm and head to the Fork & save time & money!
Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna
9
$ 99 lb.
Prev Froze
Fresh Broccoli
99
4
¢
99¢
$
$ 99
lb.
Save!
Pink Lady X-Fancy Apples
Black Angus Choice Ground Burger
Black Angus Top Sirloin lb.
Black Angus Chuck Roast
Washington
99¢ Save!
USDA Choice
Black Angus T-Bone Steaks
Black Angus Tri Tip Steaks
Russet Potatoes
lb.
7
lb.
7
4
$ 99 lb.
1
$ 99
$ 39
USDA Choice
USDA Choice
Farmland Thick Sliced Bacon
Sweet Kiwi Fruit
$ 99
6
lb.
lb.
$
lb.
Fresh Kale
Fresh Live Basil
6
14
99
12 pak.
Lime Me!
Save!
Fresh Express Salads
Florida’s Natural Orange Juice
2
$ 99
6-11 oz.
3
Bakery Fresh Hard Rolls
1
$ 29
$ 19 Save!
52-59 oz.
Merchant Soda
Assorted
Bud Light, Bud Coors Light, Coors
Kettle House Brews
White Claw, Kona, Truly, Breckenridge
Frito Lay Ruffles & Tostitos
22
$
12-16 oz.
7
$ 99
4 paks.
Assorted
2
6 ct.
Assorted
Miller LITE
2
Save!
bunch
Assorted
30 pak.
Personal Size Watermelon
Save!
lb.
Save!
99
Save!
In Our Deli
5 lb. bag
4 5
$
ea.
Save!
$ 99
Save!
100
$
$ 99
$ 19
16 oz.
Sweet Mangoes
$ 99
Franz Bread
$ 88
In Our Deli
Save!
2
ea.
$ 00
Barilla Pasta
Corona, Pacifico Corona Light
1
lb.
99
$ 99
Planters Peanuts
$ 99
Navel Oranges
Boar’s Head Turkey Breast
ea.
lb.
Prev Froze
Save!
Top Care Ibuprofen
2
Head Lettuce
Roasted Chicken
6
99 $
All Natural
Assorted
8
Save!
$
59¢
lb.
Assorted
500 ct.
16 oz.
99¢
1
Save!
$
Wild Alaskan Salmon Fillets
2 6 12 $
lb.
$ 99
2 1
24 oz.
for
79
Boneless Pork Sirloin Chops
Save!
$ 99
$
1
99
Daily’s Big Buy Bacon
80% Lean/Valu Pak Good Food Supply
USDA Choice
Foster Farm Whole Chickens
2
Hutterite Free Range Turkeys
22-24 oz.
7
$ 99 6 pak.
Assorted
2
12 pak.
2 4 $
bags
7.7-13 oz. Assorted
ea.
Food Club Sour Cream
99
¢
16 oz.
ea.
Ore-Ida Potatoes
2
$ 88
19-32 oz.
First 2
Assorted
Haagen-Daz Ice Cream
Nabisco Premium Crackers
2 6 $
14 oz.
2
$ 88
Assorted
Tombstone Pizza
2
$ 88
12 inch
Assorted
16 oz.
Save!
Bonterra Organic Wines
10
$
99
750 ml.
Assorted
601 Main St. Stevi • Local Flavor 7 Days a Week! • 7AM - 10PM • 777-4663 • Locally Owned
Emergency continued
Senator Jon Tester, meanwhile, introduced legislation to guarantee that tests to confirm infections will be free, as well as to open up emergency Unemployment Insurance funds to replace wages lost by Montanans who have been affected by the outbreak. “No Montanan should have to pay for COVID-19 testing—period,” said Tester. “That’s why I’m backing legislation to waive the costs for getting tested, regardless of whether you’re on Medicare, on private insurance, or not insured at all,” said Tester. He has also introduced legislation to provide temporary unemployment assistance to folks who lose their jobs or can’t work because of the outbreak. Tester’s Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Act would create a temporary unemployment assistance program for Americans whose job status has been affected by the COVID-19 outbreak in order to directly support those most impacted. It would provide workers who lose their paychecks—whether because of their own health status, a quarantine, or a school closure that leaves them
Preparing continued
Department. Public Health Nurse Karen Johnson went to the County Commissioners last Wednesday to ask that the county’s emergency coordinator’s hours be increased from 20 to 40 hours per week. The coordinator will be handling information requests from the public and updating procedures and protocols to meet the demands of the situation. An incident command system is also being installed. County health officials have been meeting with hospital staff at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital and with school superintendents. They have been accepting samples from local health providers and running them to Missoula where a courier takes them to the state lab in Helena. Johnson said that right now they are encouraging good hygiene as a way to personally protect yourself from the virus and reduce the spread. Good handwashing is important, she said, and coughing into your sleeve or into a Kleenex and then washing your hands. It’s also good not to be touching your face and to keep some “social distance” while out in public. If you do get sick it’s important to stay home and selfisolate. Right now, there is a lot of influenza going around in the county, according to Johnson, a majority of cases being influenza A, but some influenza B is also occurring. “Unfortunately, it is the same sort of symptoms as the coronavirus,” said Johnson, “fever, coughing, and achiness.” In an announcement on social media, Corvallis School District School Superintendent Tim Johnson stated that a number of students and staff returning from the Cody, Wyoming field trip had reported flu like symptoms. According to the state health department, the timeline of the onset of symptoms is consistent with influenza. “It is the recommendation of the state health department that students or staff exhibiting flu-like symptoms should stay home and contact their health care provider. As a reminder, students and staff should be free of fever (without medication) for 48 hours before returning to school or work.” By Sunday evening, however, the decision had been made to close the school and at the recommendation of Ravalli County Health Department, Corvallis Public Schools #1 will be closed through Spring Break (April 5th) tentatively returning to school on April 6th. This was quickly followed by an announcement from the Governor’s office that directed all Montana’s public K-12 schools to close starting March 16 until March 27. During this time, schools will engage in planning to provide arrangements to pro-
Wednesday, March 18, 2020 without childcare—with access to unemployment benefits to help them make ends meet until they’re back at work. The day before Trump declared it a national emergency, Governor Steve Bullock had already declared a state of emergency in Montana. At that time, March 12, Montana was one of only three states left that did not have a positive test. That changed on March 14, when the CDC registered four positive test results for COVID-19 within the state, including Missoula. “Now is the time to plan, not to panic,” said Governor Bullock. “Our state has been preparing for coronavirus to come to Montana and we will be prepared to respond all along the way. Just like we do when any challenging situation hits our communities, we stick together to make sure that we mitigate the impact, that we have an appropriate response, and that we slow the spread.” The emergency order allows the governor to direct a coordinated response to an outbreak of communicable disease. This includes mobilizing all available state resources, such as emergency funds or personnel from the National Guard. It also allows the governor to take additional steps as warranted.
On March 3, Governor Bullock activated the Governor’s Task Force, a multi-agency executive task force, to prepare the state and ensure the state, local public health, and the federal government are working together to keep Montanans informed with accurate and up-to-date information. The Task Force is spearheaded by Adjutant General Matthew Quinn, who oversees the Disaster and Emergency Services division which is well versed in multi-agency coordination and all-hazard response planning. The Task Force has launched an informational phone line at 1-888-333-0461 and Montanans can also email questions to covid19info@mt.gov. State public health officials will be responding to inquiries from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday. A website has also been set up to keep the public apprised of Task Force actions at COVID19. mt.gov [covid19.mt.gov]. Montanans can also visit the DPHHS website at www.dphhs.mt.gov [dphhs.mt.gov] for the most updated and timely health information related to the coronavirus. The Governor’s Office, Task Force, and DPHHS will continue to provide up-to-date information to Montanans as it becomes available.
vide free meals to students who need them, pursuant to a waiver obtained from the United States Department of Agriculture, and to provide for all other matters and services that students need in the event of future or ongoing closure. Schools will continue to receive all state funding during this twoweek closure. “I recognize that our schools often serve as a lifeline for families and that this decision is going to have disruption on Montanans over the coming weeks. I’m committed to working with schools, communities and public health to minimize the impact. I encourage businesses to do everything they can to support families as well,” said Governor Bullock. To address that, beginning Tuesday, March 17, lunch and breakfast will be delivered to students of Stevensville Schools. The kitchen staff will be preparing sack meals which will be delivered daily via morning bus routes at the usual prescribed pickup time. Students/families should plan to meet the bus to pick up sack meals. Meals will be delivered on both Friday and Monday even though students were not scheduled to attend. If you cannot meet the scheduled bus time or if students do not utilize bus services, the District will provide grab and go meals. These meals are available from 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Burnt Fork Market parking lot and the bus stop at the corner of Illinois Bench and Airport Roads. The backpack food program will continue on Fridays. These packs will be prepared, labeled for recipients, and available to students on the morning bus routes and grab and go locations Fridays. Check school website, building Facebook pages and email for updates. To mitigate the impact of school closures on families, Governor Bullock encourages all employers to be generous with their employee sick and paid leave policies during this time. Governor Bullock is strongly recommending that the public limits all gatherings, especially those more than 50 people, in every community across the state. Governor Bullock is also recommending that individuals over the age of 60 or who are immunocompromised or with chronic health conditions do not participate in gatherings of more than 20 people. He also recommends that parents should avoid, if possible, placing children for childcare with grandparents or individuals over the age of 60 or immunocompromised persons. Visitation in Montana’s nursing homes is suspended except for certain compassionate care situations. People who meet the exception for visitation will undergo a screening to determine whether they have traveled in the last two weeks, are residing where community spread is occurring, or if they have symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Johnson said that all of her
guidelines for response to the outbreak are coming through the state and the state is getting direction from the CDC. Ravalli County is already beginning a voluntary shut down as public events are being cancelled, the libraries are regulating public access, retail business is dropping off, and many changes in the workplace are being made by businesses. “Local school leaders are on the front lines of keeping their students safe while also ensuring that they receive education services,” Superintendent of Public Instruction Elsie Arntzen said Friday. “I commend local leaders for their tremendous responses to the rapidly changing and unique circumstances they are facing. The OPI is here to serve and partner with local communities as they respond to the COVID-19 outbreak and we will work to ensure that they continue to receive funding and support as decisions are made at either the state or local level to close schools.” In addition to OPI specialists and district superintendents, the Montana Federation of Public Employees, School Administrators of Montana, and the Montana Quality Education Coalition are coordinating with OPI. The OPI has also submitted a waiver request to the USDA to allow school nutrition flexibility so that children can still receive meals. According to Dylan Klapmeier, Director of Communications & Federal Relations, OPI has applied for a waiver from USDA. The waiver will allow eligible Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) sponsors to provide grab and go meals rather than the normally required congregate meal service. “We have our SFSP applications ready to begin as soon as we get USDA approval and sponsors know about school closures. We can approve the sponsor applications quickly. The sponsors are responsible for their own food procurement, preparation and delivery,” he said. In the event of extended school closures made through advice from local health departments, OPI will seek additional waivers and extensions for impacted federal programs. The U.S. Department of Education will consider case by case waivers and extensions to federal program requirements. Although campuses are not closed, the University of Montana has moved all of its classes to online-only. John Bishop, CEO of Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, stated in a letter to the community that, out of an abundance of caution and preparation, Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital initiated its Hospital Incident Command Structure (HICS) last week. This team is meeting regularly to manage communications, logistics, and planning efforts effectively. Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital has maintained an emergency
Bitterroot Star -- Page 3
Merrill files for HD 87
Laura Merrill of Stevensville recently filed as a candidate for the Montana House of Representatives in House District 87. House District 87 includes the communities of Pinesdale, Corvallis, Victor, and Stevensville. Laura considers herself a moderate Democrat, who will work to unify Ravalli County constituents regardless of political affiliation. She honed her ability to listen to diverse perspectives in negotiations and find common ground during her 30 years of real estate experience in the Bitterroot Valley. Her keen understanding of issues affecting many of her constituents focuses on affordability of life in the Bitterroot, and includes the costs of affordable housing, medical insurance, child/elder-parent care, and the sustainability of family ranches, farms, and small businesses. With a prior education in Forestry and Natural Resource Management, she worked for both the Colorado State Forest Service and the U.S. Forest Service prior to moving to the Bitterroot in 1990. Her understanding of an array of land management issues will be an asset when serving as a future legislator in Montana. As Laura recently reflected, “Public service is important to me, and I would be most honored
to represent the residents of my District in the Montana State Legislature.” She has lived in the VictorStevensville area for 30 years with her partner Janine Benyus. When not at work she volunteers for a number of non-profit organizations throughout the Bitterroot Valley, including the Bitter Root Water Forum, Bitter Root Land Trust, Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors,
the Bitterroot Human Rights Alliance, the Bitterroot Forest Restoration Committee, and currently as the President of the Bitterroot Performing Arts Council. Laura is running as a Democrat, and will face one of three Republican challengers in the District on November 3, 2020 for the position vacated by previous incumbent Republican Nancy Ballance who served for the past four consecutive terms.
preparedness plan for many years to align with Federal Regulatory Requirements and to ensure it can effectively respond to events, such as COVID-19. The hospital has already begun controlling access to its facilities to ensure the safety of patients, visitors and staff. “At each access point, we have hand sanitizer, masks, and tissues available so that patients and visitors can perform respiratory etiquette, as appropriate. Patients with a fever, cough, or cold symptoms are asked to put on a mask when they show up for an appointment. We also ask that if you are ill, please do not visit our already vulnerable patients,” said Bishop. “We are taking these steps to be proactive in protecting our staff, patients, and the community,” said Bishop, “As the situation with COVID-19 changes, our team will adjust accordingly. Your safety and the quality of care we provide are of the utmost importance to us. “Controlling the spread of communicable diseases is a community effort; please do your part by washing your hands, covering your coughs, and staying home when you’re ill,” he said. Montana Supreme Court Justice Mike McGrath issued a letter to District Court Judges and Clerks; Montana Water Court; and Montana Courts of Limited Jurisdiction emphasizing the importance of keeping the courts running. “At a time like this, it is especially critical that we continue ahead with an organized society that is able to demonstrate that
we can absorb this potential crisis and continue to function in an orderly manner. The courts are an essential part of that organization. Without the courts properly functioning society can begin to drift into disorder and chaos,” wrote McGrath, “It is for this reason that the Courts must remain open.” He outlined some “common sense” procedures to “help flatten the curve of progress” of the outbreak. He sets forth some requirements for the courts. One is that Jurors who are defined by the Centers for Disease Control as atrisk if they contract the virus must be released from reporting for jury duty, if requested. The Court is encouraging attorneys and selfrepresented litigants to request a continuance or a bench trial. The Court will try to schedule jury pools in a way that large crowds can be avoided and have plenty of tissues and cleaning products with signs warning to wash hands in high-touch areas. Litigants and attorneys who report not feeling well will be asked to reschedule their appearance. Jurors who report they are feeling ill must be released. The Court is encouraging the use of video conferencing whenever possible instead of meeting and cancellation of all non-essential meetings and travel by staff. “Finally, it is imperative your court be involved and engaged with your local disaster and public health planning committee. This will be critically important moving forward,” wrote McGrath. CDC recommends that for
the next eight weeks, organizers cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the U.S. Meanwhile, many groups and organizations are cancelling smaller meetings and events as well. As the Star gets notification of this, we post them on our facebook page and on our website. Many local businesses have curtailed their usual operating procedures as well. As of Monday, six people in Montana had tested positive for coronavirus, two of them in Missoula County. For more information on COVID-19, please visit the CDC website: https://www.cdc.gov/ coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html
Laura Merrill has filed as a Democratic candidate for House District 87.
Bitterroot Star distribution As of Monday, weekly home delivery of the Bitterroot Star is set to continue. We will take any precautions necessary to ensure that the health of our employees and our readers is protected. Delivery to the outside stands will also continue until further notice. However, there may be some interruption in deliveries to retail locations. We apologize for any inconvenience. The health and safety of everyone is our highest priority at this time. For more information contact Victoria at 777-3928 or 207-8793.
Business & Estate Planning & Elder Law Services
JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682 115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com
Ready to help.
Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star
Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell
Opinion
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Guest Comment
Darby Lumber Timber Sale Phase 2 is trojan horse By George Wuerthner, Livingston
The proposed Darby Lumber Timber Sale Phase Two on the Bitterroot National Forest is a Trojan Horse being implemented under the guise of “forest health” based on numerous false assumptions. The proposal displays the Forest Service’s Industrial Forestry bias and its subterfuge of science. The Friends of the Bitterroot is litigating the sale because it would compromise elk security cover and road densities. The public no longer gives the agency a “social license” to simply give away public logs to private timber companies like Pyramid Lumber in Seeley Lake at a loss to taxpayers, so both the Forest Service and the owners of lumber mills have to come up with another excuse for logging. They now disguise the purpose of logging by suggesting the cutting of trees will “improve” forest health. A complete ecological accounting would demonstrate that logging always impoverishes the forest ecosystem. It’s just the agency ignores most of the real environmental costs and exaggerates the public benefits. The FS asserts that the forest is “unhealthy” and at risk of death from wildfires and bark beetles. That is like saying that an elk herd is unhealthy because wolves kill some of the animals. Bark beetles are “keystone” species that research demonstrates increases biodiversity in the forest. Similarly, wildfires are among the most important natural processes creating and enhancing wildlife habitat in our forests. Live trees, particularly in a drought when fires occur, are more incendiary than dead trees because they have the fine fuels of flammable, resin-packed needles and branches, which are what burns in a blaze. That is why most wildfires occur in green forests and also why you have snags after a fire-the main tree bole typically does not burn well. This is not hidden science. For instance, when I Google bark beetles and wildfire, the very first article that comes up says: “We review the literature on the efficacy of silvicultural practices to control outbreaks and on fire risk following bark beetle outbreaks in several forest types… to date, most available evidence indicates that bark beetle outbreaks do not substantially increase wildfires ...” The second Google article listed says: “Another new study published by the Ecological Society of America titled “Does wildfire likelihood increase following insect outbreaks in conifer forests?” by Garrett Meigs and co-authors conclude that bark beetle outbreaks do not lead to greater likelihood of fires.” Besides, even more, research shows that high-severity blazes typically occur under extreme fire weather, where research again suggests, logging and other “vegetation treatments” like prescribed burning are
A big thank you
Dear Editor, I want to give a shout out for a recent good news activity that deserves a hearty THANK YOU. The walking-path benches from town to the river were repaired, scraped and painted. This undertaking was an Eagle Scout project. The young man responsible was Cam Johnson, a freshman at Stevensville High School. Cam deserves a big THANK YOU from all of us bench-sitters who hike this path regularly. He said with the assistance of a few friends and family, the 18-hour effort was successfully completed. Scout master William Andrews said this project, plus all merit badges and leadership actions completed, the Eagle Scout board of review is the final step to accomplishing a major goal for this young man. THANK YOU, Cam. Jim Kalkofen Stevensville
Essen is wrong
Dear editor Certain parts of Marty Essen’s rant in the March 4 issue
George Wuerthner is an ecologist who has published numerous books on environmental issues including “Wildfire: A Century of Failed Forest Policy.” He lives in Livingston.
Letters
of the Bitterroot Star may or may not be correct, but when he addressed the issue of abortion he was “dead” wrong. Mr. Essen states, “I’m not sure how abortion became such a major Republican issue…” Abortion has been the major issue in this country for over 50 years. His biblical justification for abortion was laughable. Mr. Essen asserts that the Bible “states multiple times that life begins at first breath,” but fails to identify said passages. Perhaps Mr. Essen was mixing these passages up with quotes from Nancy Pelosi or Diane Feinstein. When a United States Senate Judiciary Subcommittee invited some of the world’s most prominent scientists and physicians to testify on the question of when life begins, doctors and professors from the University of Pennsylvania, Univ. of Descartes (Paris), the Mayo Clinic, Harvard Univ. Medical School, and the Univ. of Colorado (among others) unilaterally stated that life begins at the moment of conception. Jeremiah 1:5 states, “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I dedicated you…” At fertilization
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.
Member Montana Montana Newspaper Association Member Association Member Commerce Member Bitterroot Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Member Main Street Association Member Stevensville Hamilton Downtown Association Member Downtown Association Member Hamilton Stevensville Civic Club
ineffective at halting wind-driven fires. The Forest Service displays its Industrial Forestry bias when it asserts that some trees are “slow” growing and that logging will increase Ecologically speaking, slow-growing trees have denser wood, “vigor.” which means they rot slower, and last long after they die. This means they function longer in the forest ecosystem providing wildlife habitat, storing carbon and providing the slow release of nutrients into soils. Thus slow-growing trees are more valuable to “healthy” forest ecosystem. Many plants and animals live in mortal fear of green forests. Dead trees are essential habitat for many species of wildlife. Some 45% of birds use down wood or snags at some point in their lives. A recent study by Dick Hutto at the U of Montana found that many bird species occur at higher densities and numbers in severity burnt forests. When snags fall into streams, they create essential aquatic habitat for insects and fish. Down wood hides small mammals and amphibians, is home to insects like native bees that are critical pollinators, and sustain nutrient and carbon storage. Removal of trees also can reduce hiding and thermal cover for elk. Logging disturbance contributes to the spread of weeds and loss of genetic diversity in forest stands. Logging roads, even “temporary” roads provide increased access for ORVs and dirt bikes, further decreasing wildlife security. And the FS does not “restore” road contours or road lens, which results in increased soil erosion, clogging streams with more sediment. Logging destroys all of these critical attributes and much more hence impoverishes the forest. Pyramid Lumber’s Gordy Sanders believes the lawsuit is an examples of “how the courts are being used not to manage our forests.” Apparently, Sanders thinks it’s OK for the Forest Service to violate the law and ecological science if it sends more publicly subsidized logs to his mill. Instead of hiding behind the false assertion that they are improving forest health, the agency would be far more honest if it merely said it was going to cut trees to appease uninformed politician demands, as well as subsidize local timber mill owner bank accounts. Of course, the public might not support logging forests to enrich timber mill owners and their shareholders, especially at the expense of the forest ecosystem.
a genetically distinct human being at a very early state in his or her development is created. Every child in utero is simply a human being waiting to be born. The taking of an innocent human life (born or preborn) is murder. Mr. Essen’s lack of credibility on this issue calls into question the veracity of every statement in his letter. Teresa Larson Victor
Truth matters
Dear Editor, Call us naive, or idealistic, but we have always believed that there is a basic agreement that, when people agree to run for an office to serve their fellow citizens, they are who they say they are. Whether or not there is a consensus among the electorate as to the beliefs of the candidate, there must be the baseline understanding that that candidate is honestly presenting himself. On Tuesday, once the dust settled and the candidates had officially filed with the Montana Secretary of State, we were able to see who is willing to represent the ideals and philosophies of their
parties. It’s how politics works. Unfortunately, the honesty of some candidates who filed has come under question. Two members of a local Ravalli County family, who have indulged in questionable political identities in the past, have again filed under false pretenses. John Gibney, after having filed as a Green Party candidate in 2018 and being denounced by that party, has again filed, this time as a candidate for the US House of Representatives. His son, Timothy Gibney, has taken it upon himself to primary a real Democrat for the Montana Senate seat for District 44. We honestly have no idea what drives this family to be so publicly dishonest, but we, as informed voters, must call them out for their dishonesty. Our political system depends on people being honest about who they say they are. Truth matters. Corrine Gantt, Chair Nancy Neal, Linda Weber, Rich Morrisey, Skip Kowalski, Linda Schmitt, Mary Blankenbaker Ravalli County Democratic Central Committee
Bransby Law Firm P.C. • Dissolution • Child Support • Parenting Plans • Orders of Protection FREE CONSULTATION
777-1000
Kenneth Bransby www.bransbylaw.com 515 Main Street, Stevensville, MT
#1 - Ken/Atticus - Remove the period after Temporary Orders of Protection. Add Free Consultation above phone number. Center our address under the website.
Call to action
Dear Editor, The entire planet is facing the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus and now it is in Montana. Make no mistake, this is a very dangerous virus and it creates an extremely challenging and stressful time for all of us. We currently have two options: shrink away from the challenge and give in give in to panic, or lean into the challenge and rise above our primal fears. Fortunately, your local public health system is built to take action in times of a pandemic. You are encouraged to follow their guidance as what we do today can have long lasting effects for all Montanans. We are not powerless, and we can exert control over the course of this disease outbreak. As Montanans we are already familiar with the basic concepts of fighting viral outbreaks, because we have already learned how to live with wildfire and combat it when it occurs. The essential steps for fighting a viral outbreak during viral season are no different from fighting fires during fire season. First, PREVENT the possibility of fire, second CONFINE the fire, third PROTECT high-value targets, fourth reduce COLLATERAL damage, and lastly establish a centralized fire control CENTER. Remember, all fires will burn out when there is no longer any combustible fuel to consume. Viruses are no different. So, let’s apply these principles to the COVID-19 viral outbreak. STEP 1: PREVENTION During fire season we make sure the areas around our homes and property are free from as much combustible material as possible. Fighting viruses during viral season is no different. You want to prevent the virus from getting a foothold in the first place. Wash your hands frequently, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, wipe down surfaces that could harbor the virus, cough or sneeze into your elbow, and avoid touching your face, eyes, nose and mouth. Since schools put a lot of combustible fuel all in one place, school closures are one of the most important prevention measures being undertaken. STEP 2: CONFINEMENT Once a fire breaks out, it is all hands-on deck time. All resources are directed at the front line of the fire to keep it from spreading. We create fire breaks, drop fire retardant, drop water and send in hotshots to the front line. To combat COVID-19 we use the principles of self-isolation and quarantine to confine the virus and keep it from spreading and send in health care professionals. Our current challenge with fighting COVID-19 is that we can’t see the edge of the fire line. Due to the nature of the virus having a five to seven-day incubation period before symptoms present and not having enough testing kits to test asymptomatic individuals, many of us may have the virus and may be spreading it while appearing well. Once someone comes down with the virus, we are now finally able to visualize where the fire line was five to seven days previous, but we can’t tell where it may have spread. Right now, we need to assume that the fire could be anywhere. However, this does not mean we are powerless. There are a lot of things we can do. The most obvious, stay at home if you are ill and call your health care provider to see if you might have symptoms consistent with COVID-19 or might have symptoms that require medical attention. Follow your provider’s recommendations. If you are asymptomatic, work from home if you can. If not, maintain social
distancing about six feet apart from co-workers. Order your food to go and try to use delivery as much as possible. Avoid large gatherings, public areas, and keep travel patterns consistent and minimal. This way if you do come down with COVID-19, health care professionals can better track your pattern over the past five to seven days and create a fire break. STEP 3: PROTECTION When a fire breaks out, special efforts are made to protect high-value structures such as homes, historical features, and unique natural areas. During the COVID-19 outbreak, the elderly, those with underlying health conditions, and those with a suppressed immune system, are our high-value populations. These individuals have a much higher mortality should they develop the infection. Special efforts need to be made to protect this population. So, if you are not feeling well, and to avoid accidently infecting others, stay away from nursing homes, hospitals, emergency rooms, health care facilities, or any place where high-value populations are present. The only time to disregard this information is if you are directed to these facilities by a health care professional. STEP 4: Prevent COLLATERAL Damage If a fire breaks out in a theatre, there are two possible outcomes when someone yells “Fire!” The first outcome is that everyone leaves in a calm and orderly fashion and those that need help to exit get the help they need. The second outcome is that everyone panics and half of the moviegoers are trampled. Those trampled are most often the most vulnerable in our population. Make no mistake, we are at that stage of panic as evidenced by runs on food and toilet paper. I am asking for a “call to action” for all Montanans to remain levelheaded and act in a calm and orderly manner. Our success in navigating the COVID-19 pandemic and preventing a second wave of death from trampling others is dependent on our actions today. I am asking for everyone to enact the buddy system and check in on family, friends and neighbors. While we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, let’s not get so singularly focused and forget that influenza, pneumonia, heart attacks, diabetic complications, congestive heart failure, chronic lung disease, strokes, asthma, accidents, trauma, suicide, drug overdoses, etc., still remain some of our biggest health threats. As opposed to holing up in our homes and barricading ourselves from society, our efforts might be better served to check in on an elderly neighbor and make sure they have plenty of medications and food so they don’t need to venture out and possibly get exposed to COVID-19. STEP 5: Centralized CONTROL Center During a forest fire, a centralized command center is set up to keep communication coordinated, concise, and accurate to avoid confusion and prevent accidents. Right now, the centralized command centers are the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), and your local Health Departments. These are the experts with the most knowledge and the most up-to-date information to coordinate our resources to combat the COVID-19 infection. For example, if you are having a heart attack do you go to FOX, CNN, MSNBC to find out what to do? No, you go to the ER and get seen by a cardiologist. Do See LETTERS, page 9
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.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 5
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
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.
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 Sta-
tion), Hamilton. For inquiries contact, email: teslrudd@gmail.com.
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Main MainSt. • Stevensville 203 Stevensville• •777-0028 360-2661
Sapphire Quilters 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 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.
Model train club
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.
Radio Club
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.
BitterRodders Car Club
BitterRodders Car Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st in Hamilton. Everyone welcome. For more information call 961-3136.
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?
Worship at 12:0011p.m. Sunday Worship AM In this Church there shall In this Church there shall be no outcasts. be no outcasts. 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.
Lolo bingo
Bingo is held every Sunday at the Lolo Community Center from 12 noon to 4 p.m. Doors open at noon, games begin at 1. Food and drinks available. Costs: 3-card pack/13 games is $10; 6-card pack/13 games is $18. Two optional games: 1st game card is $2; 2nd game card is $3.
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. 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.
Clothes Closet
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. continued on next page
Professional & Service Directorytt
Page 6 -- Bitterroot Star
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 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.
Parkinson’s support group
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.
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 Montana 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 Montana 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
Wednesday, March 18, 2020 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.
Acoustic Jam
An acoustic music jam sponsored by the Bitterroot School of Music is held the second Tuesday of each month from 6 to 8 p.m. at Rooted Music located at 100 Skeels Street, Suite A in Hamilton. All acoustic instruments are welcome as is anyone who would like to sing or just come and enjoy the music. For info contact Rooted Music at 406-363-5491.
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
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.
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 supplied 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.
Center for Spiritual Life
Services are held every Sunday at 328 Fairgrounds Road, across from Hamilton High School, to hear inspiring ideas and uplifting music. Meditation begins at 9 a.m., service begins at 9:30 a.m., stay for fellowship in the Social Hall at 10:45 a.m. For further information call Dave Schultz at 381-2355; schultz_dv@ msn.com/; visit CSLBitterroot.org, or like us on Facebook: CSLBitterroot.
Course in Miracles Study Group
Road, Hamilton. By donation. For more information, call Selma at 381-6480; selmaputnam@gmail. com/; visit CSLBitterroot.org, or on Facebook: CSLBitterroot.
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.
Fish Fries
Knights of Columbus will hold a fish fry every Friday night from 5 to 7 p.m. during Lent at St. Mary’s Family Center in Stevensville. Menu is fish, French fries, vegetable, roll and dessert. Cost is $10 for adults, $7 for children ages 7-10 and free for children 6 and under.
Wed, March 18 RCEDA
The Ravalli County Economic Development Authority Finance Committee will meet Wednesday, March 18 at 2:15 p.m., followed by a Board meeting at 3 p.m. The meetings will take place at the RCEDA Conference Room at 274 Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. Both meetings are open to the public.
BRHA annual meeting
The Annual Membership Meeting of the Bitter Root Humane Association will be held on Wednesday, March 18 at 6 p.m. The meeting will be held at the Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors Office, 224 N. 4th Street (corner of 4th & Cherry Street) in Hamilton. The Board of Directors will report to the membership on the state of the organization through committee and financial reports, provide a presentation on the new shelter and hold elections for the Board of Directors. The public is welcome to attend.
Sat, March 21 Winter Speaker Series
Lolo Pass Visitor Center, located on the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests on U.S. Highway 12 at the Idaho/Montana state line, will be hosting its final Winter Speaker Series event of the season on Saturday, March 21. Sydney Bacon, Archaeologist with the Lolo National Forest, will give a presentation at Lolo Pass Visitor Center starting at noon PDT / 1 p.m. MDT. Visitors are invited to bring a sack lunch and sit down to learn more about Skookum Butte Lookout. Bacon’s presentation will include the history of this fire watchtower and details of a three–phase, multi–partner historic restoration effort that began at the lookout last year. For the most up to date information about happenings at Lolo Pass, call the visitor center at (208) 942-3113 and follow them on Facebook at bit.ly/FB-LPVC. Lolo Pass Visitor Center is currently open 7:30 a.m.–4:15 p.m. (PDT), Thursday through Monday.
Monday, March 23 Lone Rock park board
Lone Rock Park board will meet on Monday, March 23 at 7 p.m. at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. The public is welcome.
Thurs, March 26 NVPL Pint Night
The North Valley Public Library Foundation and Wildwood Brewery are teaming up for a Pint Night to raise funds for programs at the library. The fundraiser is planned for Thursday, March 26 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the brewery, 4018 U.S. Hwy. 93 North, Stevensville. During this time, a portion of the proceeds from every pint the brewery sells will go to the Stevensville library to benefit a variety of programs. For more information, contact Foundation board member Carla Sanders at (406) 777-7318.
Join a weekly ongoing and deepening discussions of A Course in Miracles; a journey of spiritual transformation. The class meets every Wednesdays from 9:45 a.m. to 12 noon at The Center for Spiritual Life, 328 Fairgrounds
Greg Gianforte has a plan for Montana’s future 9 strengthen Montana’s Economy 9 Confront Montana’s drug tradE 9 Protect Montana’s way of life
E R N O R
G O V E R N O R
No matter what kind of work you do in Montana, safety works. From tending the herd to growing
the future, safety is what keeps us going and gets us home. Montana State Fund has been at the job of promoting safety for decades, and we’re proud to say that it’s working, all over the state. Watch stories of real Montana businesses starting every day with safety, at safemt.com.
safemt.com Paid for by Greg for Montana, P.O. Box 877, Helena, MT 59624 (R)
Sunday, March 29 Farmers market meeting
A meeting for vendors and potential vendors of the Stevensville Farmers Market will be held Sunday, March 29 at 1 p.m. at the American Legion Hall on Middle Burnt Fork Road. This is for anyone interested in selling at the market during the 2020 season. For more information contact Stacie at 381-6145.
Wednesday, April 1 Garden Club
The Stevensville Garden Club will meet Wednesday, April 1 at 1 p.m. at the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street. Jim Sadler, an American Rose Society member, Rose judge, and Master Rosarian, will present a program on cold hardly roses. Questions as to members issues concerning their roses will also be answered. The public is invited to attend. Call Colleen at 273-3973 for more info.
EVENTS CANCELLED Quantum Group of the Bitterroot
The Quantum Group of the Bitterroot has stopped meetings with an indefinite restart date in view of the Coronavirus pandemic. See the website www// Quantumgb, e-mail blaise.favara@ gmail or call 363-0683 for more information.
Accordion Club
Five Valley Accordion Club has cancelled its dance/jams until further notice, due to the Governor declaring a state of emergency in regards to the coronavirus!m This includes the annual meeting and dinner/dance.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 7
Local libraries closures in effect
To help combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus, the Bitterroot Public Library and North Valley Public Library have closed until further notice starting Monday, March 16. Darby Community Public Library closure will go into effect on Wednesday, March 18, until further notice. All library programs, events, classes, and meeting room reservations are cancelled until further notice. Library users are encouraged to not return items during the closure. Overdue fines on all items will be waived during the closure. The library hopes to be able to provide an option for picking up items already on hold during the closure and will make details available as soon as possible. All three libraries have wi-fi available that can be accessed outside the building and patrons are encouraged to use the free wi-fi as well as access the libraries online resources such as MontanaLibrary2Go. Visit the libraries’ websites for information on their online resources. “Several libraries in Montana have closed and we believe following their lead is an unfortunate but necessary precaution to take during this health crisis,” said Mark Wetherington, Bitterroot Public Library director. “On average over 225 people per day visit the library and doing what we can to promote social distancing is in the best interest of the health and safety of our community. We realize this will be a profound inconvenience for library users and our community, but we would rather be safe than sorry.” Denise Ard, North Valley Public Library director, stated, “This fast moving, easily catchable virus could put a major strain on our local health care services so although inconvenient to our patrons, Mark and our boards believe preventative measures need to be taken to ensure proper social distancing to lessen the impact on the Bitterroot Valley.” Library staff will continue to work hard behind the scenes on cleaning, organizing, and tackling special projects so that each location will be ready to greet their communities when the library reopens. The library asks users to help protect our community and follow CDC recommendations for sanitation, social distancing, exposure and self-isolation. Bitterroot Public Library’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak is subject to change. The library will keep the community informed each step of the way. Further information about the library closures and plans for operating during this health crises is available on the libraries’ websites: bitterrootpubliclibrary.org, northvalleylibrary.org, and darbylibrary.net. The password to access North Valley Public Library’s Wi-Fi network is Stopillegalstreams.
See’s candy sale
The Soroptimist Easter See’s candy sale has been cancelled. They thank you for your support and will ‘See’ you for Christmas!
Dervish concert
The Dervish traditional Irish music concert slated for 7:30 on
Wednesday, March 18 at the UM Recital Hall has been cancelled.
Mill Lake Irrigation District Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Mill Lake Irrigation District meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 21 at the Corval-
Weekly Specials!
Prices good through March 21, 2020
Bay’s English Muffins . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $3.99 ea Wraps - Spinach, Whole Wheat, Plain . . . . . . $1.99/pkg Amour Lard . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $2.19 ea Tombstone Pizza . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $4.99 ea Boneless Chicken Breasts . . . . . . . . . . . . $7.99 5lb pkg Brenneman Maple Syrup . . . Reg $74.69 . . . NOW $59.99 Barelli Sauces . . . . . . . . . . Reg $2.79 . . . . NOW $2.49
Deli
Off the bone Honey Ham . . . . . . . Reg $6.39 . . NOW $5.39 Oven Roasted Chicken . . . . . . . . . . . . Reg $7.59 . . . NOW $6.59 Garlic Bologna . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reg $5.19 . . NOW $4.29 Desert Fire Pepper Cheese . . . . . . . . Reg $6.49 . . . NOW $5.39 Lacey Baby Swiss . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Reg $7.69. . . NOW $6.59
4362 Eastside Hwy • Stevensville • 406-361-9186
Get Ready for Spring!
YES YOU CAN!!! • Become a CNA in 6 weeks • Become an LPN in 2-3 semesters While working part/full time with benefits!
Come Grow With Us!
Spring Special - Spend $500 or more on any service & get a $100 Gift Card! While Supplies Last
Call today for a FREE consultation
Rosalee Shorter PA-C
Expert training & 14 years experience in non-surgical facial rejuvenation
406.880.0804 406-777-5411 • 63 Main Street, Stevensville michael@livingcenter.com
293 Rodeo Drive • Florence www.rsaesthetics.net Medical Director: Dr. Jeffrey Sweat
Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star lis Grange Hall has been canceled. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date.
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Republican Women
Stevensville Civic Club
The Stevensville Civic Club monthly meeting on Tuesday, March 24 has been cancelled.
Ravalli County Republican Women’s Club has cancelled its Monday, March 24 meeting and lunch.
Community dance
Quilters Guild
The Community Dance event on Sunday, March 22 at River Street Dance Theater in Hamilton has been cancelled.
Due to the Corona Virus, the Bitterroot Quilters Guild has cancelled their regular meeting,
originally slated for Wednesday, March 25. Meetings will resume on April 22, if the general quarantine has been lifted by that date. Membership in the Guild is open to quilters from beginner through advanced; contact Tena Chapman, Membership Chair, at 406-3814755. For more information, visit the Bitterroot Quilters Guild on Facebook.
‘Lamb of God’ production
day, April 4 at the North Valley Public Library has been cancelled.
The performance of “Lamb of God” scheduled for March 26-28 at First Presbyterian Church in Missoula has been cancelled.
Buy local! 777-3928
History lecture
“St. Mary’s Past and Present” lecture scheduled for Satur-
Alpenstüble Inc.
We have everything to keep you healthy
Sat, March 21st
Vitamins • Elderberry Boost Essential Oils • Local Honey
DON’T PANIC!
German Bakery
Meatless Chili & Corn Bread, Beef Bacon Pasty Roll, Warm Potato Salad, Dessert
Sat, March 28th
Light Veggie Soup, Beef Stroggonoff, Vegetables, Dessert Call for Reservations (406) 777-9825 3920 Hwy 93 N . Suite G . Stevensville
Pre-Paid Simple Cremation
Honey is an anti viral, anti bacterial & anti fungal
CATERED TABLE
LUNCH IS BACK!
Ever ythin g f o Hom r em Han ade Sani d tizer
STARTING MARCH 31ST
TUESDAY THROUGH SATURDAY 11am to 2pm Dine in or phone in your to-go orders
901 N 1st Street • Hamilton • 363-1626
www.cateredtable.com 777-7090 205 Main st. Stevensville MT.
JOHNSON APPLIANCE SERVICE
SMITH
IN HOME SERVICE SPECIALISTS
Now Providing You with Quality Speed Queen Laundry Products
$2,200 ROOFING
363-3592
406-369-1834
Family Owned & Operated Saving you money since 1972
The oldest, most trusted roofing company in the Bitterroot Valley! Call us today for a free estimate.
406-363-1111
SERVICING ALL YOUR KITCHEN & LAUNDRY APPLIANCE NEEDS FROM LOLO TO DARBY
A+ Rating
No Matter Where You Bought Them!
Better Business Bureau
NEW CLIENTS $10 off 1st appointment
Locally Owned and Operated!
$5 HEARTWORM TESTS w/ purchase of Interceptor Dewormer
Treat Yourself
($20 Savings) ends March 31st
E!
BLLE! A L I A V A B W A with a shopping trip to your local Sears. L O I A N V A NOW
S E T A D P S U E N T E A H D P C ITTCHEN U K Y A D I 5 K 1 Y A D 5 1-
BLE! HEN UP 1-5 DAY KITC
AVAILA NOW Great sales throughout the store! DATES
3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville, MT 59870 • (406) 777-3844
kitchentuneup.com 51581Columbia ColumbiaRiver River kitchentuneup.com 51581 1704 N.IL 1st BLE! Hamilton . 375-9090 Scappoose AStreet, AVA
Day Tune-Up Custom Refacing DayTune-Up Tune-Up • Custom Refacing NOW 111Day Custom Refacing SCabinets ENew A Cabinet Redooring •TNew D P Cabinet Redooring New Cabinets U N E H C Cabinet Redooring Cabinets T I K Y A D 5 1
Scappoose
503.543.6141 503.543.6141
Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Store are locally owned & operated. Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Store are locally owned & operated.
CCCCCC SSSSS “WW BBBBB
30’X48’X16’ DRIVE THRU RV STORAGE
O O O O O O O AAA A A A A A A ” kitchentuneup.com 30’X60’X12’ STORAGE BUILDING
1704 N 1st Street Hamilton • 375-9090
51581 Columbia River Hwy
Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Stores are locally owned & operated.
1 Day Tune-Up Custom Refacing Cabinet Redooring New Cabinets
Scappoose
503.543.6141
Kitchen Tune-Up & Sears Hometown Store are locally owned & operated.
Servicing the Bitterroot Valley & Surrounding Areas Call us for a FREE Estimate!
Specializing in:
C A L L F O R Y O U R F R E E E S T I M AT E TOLL FREE: 1-855-MQS BARN (677-2276)
Serving Select Regions of: Montana, Idaho and Washington
• Post Frame Buildings • Stud Frame Buildings • Equestrian Buildings • Metal Roofing & Siding
[For detailed service areas, please visit our website]
406-317-2746
w w w. m q s b a r n . c o m
www.alpinecustombuildersllc.com • Follow us on Facebook!
Bitterroot Star -- Page 9
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Marcus Daly Hospital addresses COVID-19 preparedness
The Hospitals Incident Command Team is frequently meeting to ensure the safety of our staff, patients, and community. Per the CDC, currently, there are no medications to treat or vaccines to prevent COVID-19. Therefore, we are working diligently to ensure the following: • Every patient receives the appropriate level of medical care • We are protecting our staff and non-COVID-19 patients from the virus • We are prepared for a potential surge in patients with respiratory infection • We have adequate personal protective equipment and staff based on demand Also, we are performing enhanced environmental cleaning throughout the hospital. Patient waiting areas have designated locations for patients with respiratory symptoms, so they are not waiting amongst other patients seeking care. Communications are regularly occurring to ensure the hospital staff, as well as the community is well informed about COVID-19 and how our facility is responding to community needs. On March 14th at 8 am, the hospital enacted temporary visitor restriction to help reduce the potential exposure and transmission of COVID-19. Please visit mdmh.org or MDMH Facebook for details. At this time, all services remain open and will continue to see patients as scheduled.
On Tuesday, March 17th, the hospital is limiting the number of entrances into the main facility. Patients and visitors will come through one of the following openings; Hospital Main Entrance, Bitterroot Physicians Clinic, or the Emergency Department. Rehabilitation, Sleep, Surgery, and Rocky Mountain Neurosurgery patients can access these services through their respective main entrances during regular business hours, and staff will ask you to mask if you are symptomatic. At the Main Hospital Entrance, Emergency Department, and the Bitterroot Physician Clinic, you will be greeted by a member of our Patient Access Team. They will ask you the following questions to evaluate for the risk of COVID-19 and to wear a mask if appropriate. 1. Have you experienced signs or symptoms of respiratory infection in the two weeks, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, or sore throat? 2. Have you come in contact or traveled to any confirmed COVID-19 area? Currently, we have been receiving numerous calls from community members who are otherwise healthy but who have mild “flu-like” symptoms, seeking reassurance concerning their health and asking about COV-19 testing. Please review the CDC guidelines for COVID-19 testing.
Glacier Tree Service 15% off with this ad!! Free Estimates. Lic’d/Ins’d
Winter is the best time for cutting your big trees! TRIMMING • CLEARING • STUMP GRINDING
Serving the Bitterroot Valley • Ask about our spring specials
406-396-4835
Letters continued
the same with this pandemic and utilize our specialists at the CDC, the DPHHS and your local health department to get clear, concise, accurate, and up-to-date information. In closing, you might ask what am I going to do tomorrow? Well, I have already cancelled my travel plans to New Orleans and Denver for medical conferences. I am going to wake up, take my dogs for a walk, and shower. Next, I am going to check my local hospital and public health department, CDC and DPHHS websites and follow their most recent recommendations and go to work. Once at work, I will man the phones to provide guidance for my patients to see if they need to be seen in person or if they can stay home. I will wash my hands frequently, wipe down surfaces frequently with anti-viral products, visit with patients who need to be seen in person, and refill medications for my patients. Since I have telehealth capabilities in my clinic, I will do as much with my patients as I can over the internet. On my way home, I will pick up a pizza using the drive through. I will check in on my elderly neighbors, make sure they are doing well and see if they might need any help. I might make some phone calls to family and friends to maintain my social contacts. To close out the night, I will stay in for entertainment and binge on a Netflix series. If I get sick, I will call my doctor and see if I need to be seen in person or not. Stay safe, stay calm, and remember to look out for one another. We are all in this together, and we will get out of this together. Marc Mentel, D.O. (Physician) Montana Medical Association President
Buy local! 777-3928
MDMH’s follow these guidelines. If you have any further questions, please see the resources below. At this time, the number of calls to the hospital and its emergency department is distracting from patient care. COVID-19 Resources: • Websites: o cdc.gov: for signs and symptoms o dphhs.mt.gov: testing • Phone Numbers: o DPHHS: 24/7 hotline: 406.444.0273 o Ravalli County Public Health: 406-375-6672 For hospital information, COVID-19 updates visit MDMH. org or the MDMH Facebook page. Controlling the spread of COVID-19 is a community effort. Please do your part by practicing social distancing, covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze. Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective, avoid close contact with sick people, and stay home when sick.
Obituary Ronald G. Daley Lolo - Since his Alzheimer’s diagnosis, Ronald G. Daley had continuously thought about the effects this would have on his family. With his devoted wife Kay by his side, he finally found peace on Saturday, March 14, 2020. Ron was born August 29, 1943 in Turlock, CA to George and Edith Yvonne Daley, the second of nine children. His siblings, Marvin, Bev, Joyce, Sterling, Janis, Marva, Cyndi and George Jr., remember “ Ronnie” as a doting, caring brother. From his father he learned his work ethic and a love of everything outdoors. Hunting, fishing, packing with horses and camping were things he then passed down to his own family. He graduated from Redwood High School in Redwood City, CA in 1961 and married in 1966. He also proudly served in the Army National Guard. He later divorced, becoming a single father and stayed very busy provid-
DON’T WANT TO GO OUT?
We make it easy!
FREE PICK-UP & DELIVERY
in Hamilton
MONDAY- FRIDAY 8am-5:30pm 1000 North 1st • Hamilton • 363-4221
ing for his family. He eventually settled in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana and became a successful building contractor. In 1998, Ron married Kay Munson. They thoroughly enjoyed their life together. He was a beloved father to four daughters, Laura, Rhonda, Tammy and Tovah
and one son, Matthew. He was a proud “Papa” to four grandchildren, Taelor, Alex, Aidan and Dakota. He was a respected fatherin-law to Ross and Leo. He was a gracious friend to anyone who had the privilege to meet him. We all love you and miss you very much. “Go rest high on that mountain... Your work on Earth is done.” The family would like to thank all those who have helped us: Melissa Jordan, APRN, Dr. Thomas Frandsen, Hospice and Palliative Care of Missoula, and the Caregivers at Rosetta Assisted Living and the Village Memory Care. A graveside service will be held on Friday, March 20, 2020 at 2 p.m. at the Riverside Cemetery in Stevensville. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
In an effort to be mindful of our precious clients, Mikesell's Fine Jewelry will NOT be open this week. However, we will continue to work on repairs and will make arrangements with you if a pickup is needed this week. Please call 406-360-9463 or email at mikesell-j@cybernet1.com and leave a message and we will get back to you as soon as possible. Please enjoy this down time with loved ones. Reach out to someone in need. Put together a puzzle, bake a cake, or teach a skill! Sincerely, Cindy and Staff
37 Years of uncompromising quality
Sports
Page 10 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Time to Paint By Jean Schurman Sports Editor
All Valley athletes selected Even though the All Valley Classic was canceled due to the coronavirus pandemic, the selections for the players of the year had already been made by the selection committee. The lone state championship in the valley was won by the Corvallis Blue Devils in volleyball. There were also a few individuals who won state championships. Brynnli Poulsen of Hamilton won the Class A state championship in cross country last fall. She also won the 800m championship last spring for Class A. Another Hamilton athlete, Michael Graves, won the javelin with a throw of 184-11. Darby’s Casey Ehmann won the 300m hurdles with a time 46.6. Rounding out the individual state champions was Calla Haldorson of Corvallis who capped her high school career with her fourth state championship in the discus. She threw the discus 147.07 to win it. There were several individual players of the year selected in each sport. Players of the year for boys basketball are Trey Searle of Hamilton and Nelson Smith of Darby. Emma Stensrud of Florence is the girls basketball player of the year. Volleyball players of the year are Sara Hopcroft of Florence and Isabel Evans of Corvallis. Soccer players of the year are Rylee Wiediger of Hamilton and Carlos Morales of Stevensville. There is no surprise as to who the football player of the year is. Carson Rostad, who will be a University of Montana
Get your supplies here for your next masterpiece
228 Main Street Hamilton 363-5480 Grizzly next year, was the selection. Lineman of the year was Tyler Burrows of Hamilton. He’s a junior so look for big things next year. Softball player of the year was Florence’s Shannon Byrne. Golfers of the year are Tristan Hanson of Hamilton and Macee Greenwood of Corvallis. Runners of the year in track are Brynnli Poulsen and Colter Kirkland, both of Hamilton. Field athletes of the year are Calla Haldorson of Corvallis and Jacob Campbell of Hamilton. Tennis players selected were Caleb Warnken of Corvallis and Eliana Foss of Hamilton. Wrestlers of the year were two young men who had to overcome some physical issues this year but still finished well. Bridger Williams was second at 160 pounds at Class A. He is from Hamilton.
Kyler Alm of Florence finished second at 182 pounds. There are two coveted awards the Kiwanis give. The first, Athlete of the year. This award is given to the top all around boy and girl athlete in the valley. Caleb Warnken of Corvallis has competed and done well in soccer, basketball and tennis. For the girls, Hannah Martin of Corvallis was an all-state selection for volleyball, was on track for all conference for basketball and was a contender in track. The second award, the Stephanie Gonzalez Award is a sportsmanship award given to someone who contributes to their school, athletics and community. This year, Bryce Reed of Hamilton and Kimber Schlapman of Darby, were selected.
Professional Investment Advice
Jim Moerkerke, CFP®, CWS® Senior Vice President, Financial Consultant
406-363-0266 or 1-800-238-0266 Hannah Martin of Corvallis is the girls athlete of the year.
1711 North First Street • Hamilton, MT 59840
Hamilton falls in first game
Youth may have reared its head on Thursday morning at the Montana State Class A tournament in Billings. Hamilton has only three seniors on the team and none of them are starters. Abby Johnson is the sixth man, and Olivia Walker is usually the seventh man in the rotation. The Lady Broncs took on the Havre Blue Ponies in their first game and fell, 62-33. Havre began slowly but more than doubled the Lady Broncs scoring the first three quarters of the game. Hamilton shot a dismal 25 percent on two point field goals, although they did shoot very well from the charity stripe. Freshman Layne Kearns led all scorers with 13 points and was seven of eight from the free throw line. Magdalena Ringer had six rebounds for Hamilton. Havre 62, Hamilton 33 Havre - Samantha Oliver 4, Kyndall Keller 13, Kylie Walker 2, Loy Waid 5, Avery Carlson 2, Kadia Miller 12, Jessa Chvilicek 6, Sadie Filus 8, Katie Wirtzberger 5, Quinn McDonald 3, Yelena Miller 2. Hamilton - Taryn Searle 9, Rylee Brackman 5, Layne Kearns 13, Magdalena Ringer 1, Brynnli Paulsen 3, Katelyn Dickemore 2. Later on Thursday, Corvallis battled Park County, the No. 4 seed from the East. The Blue Devils were still playing without Hannah Hutchison but Madeline Gilder was back from an injury. The two teams battled back and forth throughout the game with neither team leading by more than two points throughout the first two quarters. Livingston (Park County) went on a run in the middle of the third quarter when a Livingston player hit a three point shot and then Ryleah Floyd hit another field goal. Gilder made an inside shot but turnovers plagued the Blue Devils in the third quarter. Corvallis came back to take the lead when Jenna Jordan sank two free throws early in the fourth quarter. But with Isabel Evans and Ashlyn Nixon both in foul trouble, they were limited in their defense.
The Blue Devils were down by six points with just under two minutes remaining in the game when they made a run at the Rangers. Gilder sank a shot and then hit the free throw on the ensuing foul to narrow the gap to three points. Hannah Hutchison sank the final trey of the Blue Devils’ season. Final score, Livingston 51, Corvallis 48. Evans finished with nine points and 10 rebounds. Gilder had 13 points with three rebounds. Livingston 51, Corvallis 48 Corvallis - Isabel Evans 9, Hannah Hutchison 11, Madeline Gilder 13, Brooke Powell 3, Jenna Jordan 4, Ashlyn Nixon 6, Bree Lewis 2. Livingston - Taylor Young 10, Ryleah Floyd 4, Bobbi Lima 7, Shania Johnson 2, Kodie Vondra 9, Sylvie Schoenen 2, Shannon Nelson 2, Skylar Higgs 2, Rainna Floyd 3, Abby Kokot 10. With Hamilton’s loss on Thursday, they had to play Dillon in loser out action. With both teams being from the Southwest A conference, they had already played each other twice in the regular season with Dillon coming away the victor each time. Hamilton got off to a very slow beginning in this game, scoring only one point in the first quarter. Although they were playing catch up all game, the Lady Broncs did narrow the gap to only six points at the end of the game, losing to the Beavs, 45-39. Dillon 45, Hamilton 39 Dillon - Lauryn Peterson 15, Tylia DeJohn 13, Ainsely Shipman 7, Madalen Shipman 5, Jordyn Walker 3, Kylee Pittman 2. Hamilton - Layne Kearns 11, Abby Johnson 7, Olivia Walker 6, Maggie Ringer 5, Brynnli Poulsen 4, Taryn Searle 2. The Corvallis Blue Devils had to play Browning in loser out action on Friday. Browning came out playing their running style of basketball and quickly outdistanced the Blue Devils. Corvallis was able to claw their way back into the game but time ran out before they could take the lead.
Browning won, 48-41. Browning 48, Corvallis 41 Corvallis - Isabel Evans 14, Madeline Gilder 11, Jenna Jordan 6, Brooke Powell 5, Hannah Hutchinson 3, Haley Lords 1, Ashlyn Nixon 1. Browning - Tatum Running Crane 11, Tamika Guardipee 10, Dulci Skunkcap 9, Chalissa Kipp 6, Kelsey Mad Plume 5, Abby Bullcalf 4, Mecca Bull Child 3. The state tournaments were suspended on Saturday across the state prior to the championship games. The winners of the semi finals games who would normally play for the championship were named co-champions. Here is the list of co-champions: Class AA boys - Hellgate and Billings Skyview; Class AA girls - Billings West and Helena Capitol; Class A boys - Hardin and Butte Central; Class A girls - Billings Central and Hardin; Class B boys - Lodge Grass and Fairfield; Class B girls - Loyola and Forsyth; Class C boys - Scobey and Fairview; Class C girls - Melstone and Roy/ Winifred. Hellgate, Hardin, and Loyola all were undefeated.
Looking for the Bitterroot Star? It’s FREE on more than 100 newsstands from Lolo to Conner. Or call us at 777-3928 and we’ll let you know where the closest stand is.
Caleb Warnken of Corvallis is the boys athlete of the year and the tennis player of the year.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 11
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Coronavirus 19 and me
I remember as a little boy, not yet three, running up to my mother and hugging her the day she got out of the sanitarium. I remember the smile on her face before she bent down and held me. Then my little boy angle of vision changed, and all I could see of her was her feet as I buried my head on her shoulder. She was too weak to pick me up, I learned later. I still remember the
Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan shoes that she wore when she held me. My mom had tuberculosis and was isolated in a sanitarium from the time I could barely walk until I was nearly three. I saw her only through a window from the outside, when my dad and I visited the sanitarium. Later that same year I got a touch of tuberculosis. My lungs were weakened from that time forward. I made it a point, as I grew, to be physically active. I wanted to push myself; I wanted in the worst way to outgrow my sickly kid beginnings in school. I went out for sports, and spent as much time as I could outdoors, hunting for anything I could and fishing whenever I got the chance. That helped me to grow stronger in ways I wasn’t aware of at the time, and set two important patterns for my life. One, the outdoors helped to heal me. Two, I learned how to take on adversities and cope with them. Flash forward: Today, after a lifelong history of respiratory issues I’m at high risk for coronavirus 19. Before coronavirus 19 it was SARS, and H1N1 and a host of others - for me, all of them potentially fatal. This isn’t my first rodeo. I’ve learned how to live with compromised immune and respiratory systems without undue panic. Please don’t get me wrong: I’m taking the threat of coronavirus 19 seriously. I’m not being stupid, nor am I quaking in fear. Whichever day happens to be my last I want to live it well. I’ve learned to live in the
present and do what I can.
Caution, calm, and necessary changes At the shop, friendly greetings and warm glances will replace handshakes and hugs for a while, and we’ll have spray bottles at the shop counters for frequent cleanups. We’ll practice thorough handwashing throughout the day. I don’t expect “crowds” at the shop of more than two or three people at a time, and we’ve rearranged it for a more open traffic pattern to reduce incidental congestion (everywhere except the brindle ‘Chute bins – can’t help that!) Before we opened, my doeseverything assistant Kelley completed a thorough deep cleaning of the shop, washing down walls and shampooing carpets with a commercial cleaning/disinfectant solution. Counters, rods and rod cases, reels, pegboards and merchandise – everything got the same treatment – eventually, even, so will my fly tying bench! When smoke from the fires choked the valley several years ago I bought a top-of-the-line air purifier. One of its chief features is a blue light that kills virus, along with an ionizer, HEPA and charcoal filters, and three other air purifying components. It is now plugged in at the shop, and will continue to run 24/7 for the foreseeable future. Insofar as possible and practical, the shop will be a safe place. When it appears that it won’t be, we’ll do what we must. Whatever it takes, we’ll take care of our customers as best we can. The sun is about to shine While this coronavirus 19 season is upon us, our friends and neighbors at the Rocky Mountain Lab continue to work on a vaccine and treatment. Already, according to press releases, their progress is promising. The vaccine developed in our own neighborhood works on Rhesus monkeys. (If they could use another type of monkey for further testing of the vaccine, perhaps an old Irishman, I volunteer!) Meanwhile, spring equinox is nearly here. Each day is a little longer than the last, and the best virus suppressor of all, the sun our wonderful, warm, bright and glorious sun - will no doubt do what it has always done and put a stay on this horrible virus. Until it passes my best council, if anybody cares to hear it, is to be wise, be calm, and be of good cheer. And hang in there. Don’t give up hope. Therapy, if not a cure What I intend to do, while
Crossword Puzzle
ACROSS
DOWN
1. Hairstyle 5. Antic 9. Snip 10. Copy 11. Lean 12. Abraham’s son 13. Treatment for a broken bone 15. African antelope 16. Over achiever 18. Beowulf’s foe 21. Expression of surprise 22. Marmot 26. Coding system 28. Contest 29. Outer’s opposite 30. Freudian selves 31. Bird’s home 32. Mailed
1. Scene division 2. Turn in the air 3. Brook 4. Pick 5. Pluto 6. Adult insect 7. Waitress on “Cheers” 8. Take place 10. Hand warmer 14. Poker 17. Stares 18. Urchin 19. European river 20. Nets 23. Earnings 24. Economics abrv. 25. Repose 27. Put © Feature Exchange
I’m waiting it out, is to get out in that warm sunshine (when it comes) by myself on a stretch of river, soak in the rays, get that vitamin D cycle going, and fish. Some days I’ll simply take my fly rod for a walk and fish if I feel like it, or if the river is blown out, I’ll leave the rod home. For one thing, there won’t be any crowds there and I can keep plenty of social distance
between myself and anybody I see on the river. My wife Jan and our Aussie shepherd Sadie might come along, but they’re not really disruptors of my solitude. They’re adjuncts to it. I recently read somewhere that the best fishing companion is one who goes downstream when you go upstream, or vice versa, and shares the day with you before and after. There’s an afterglow in that particular sharing that makes the solo experience all the sweeter. I can share that with Jan and a small handful of friends when we wade fish. It’s different than the camaraderie and exhilaration that comes after a float. I value that too, but it’s different. There are times when contemplation trumps excitement. These days I want to be alone with my own thoughts, be in that calm and reflective state on the river that nourishes my soul. That’s the ultimate reason I fish – and always has been. With coronavirus weighing on everybody’s mind, getting out by yourself to fish might help get you through it. In the solitude that comes with hearing the laughter of moving water, feeling the sweet air move against your cheeks, seeing the grandeur of a bigger plan than yours as you look up at the snow-clad peaks of the Bitterroot range, you might find some measure of peace and renewed perspective in remembering: This, too, shall pass. Author and flytyer Chuck Stranahan can be reached at chuck@chuck-stranahan.com or visit his fly shop at 109 E. Main in Hamilton.
Services continued
permits are available online at: https://www.townofstevensville. com/building. Permits can be faxed to 406-777-4284 or emailed to building@townofstevensville. com payment for building permits will be invoiced and can be made by mail or online on the building department website. Building plans can be dropped off at Town Hall by appointment only, please call 777-3773. The Water Division has suspended all non-emergency services in customers’ homes. Meter change-outs will not be conducted. Walk-in Services for the Police Department are suspended. Finger printing appointments will not be accommodated at this time. Police administration staff can be reached at 777-3011 or 7775271. Records requests can be completed online at: https://www. townofstevensville.com/police. Please call 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency. City Court will hold appearances as scheduled.
Update on Trooper Wade Palmer Sunday, March 15, marked the one-year anniversary of the day Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Wade Palmer of Stevensville was shot in the line of duty. His wife, Lindsey, has provided an update on Wade’s recovery progress and asked that it be shared with the public:
It has been nearly a year since my husband, Wade Palmer, was injured in the line of duty. For a while now, I have been reflecting on how to give everyone an update. Wade and I are currently at Craig Hospital in Denver, Colorado. We came here so that he can both continue and intensify his therapy. He has benefited from the physical and occupational therapy he has received here. In addition, he has made great progress in using his iPad to communicate. We continue to work on many things to make Wade’s dayto-day life easier. This includes expanding his endurance so that he can walk exclusively rather than relying on a wheelchair, and acquiring adaptive items for our house so that he is more independent in his daily activities. When we get home to Montana we will continue working with Wade’s therapists to build on the progress he has made here in Denver. We are particularly eager to work on his speech, as he has demonstrated repeatedly that he wants to get talking again. Wade has been a beacon of hope and perseverance throughout this entire ordeal. His progress in therapy has shown that he is a tenacious fighter. The greatest blessing for us is that in spite of his challenges, Wade is still Wade. He is still the loving husband and father who brings strength and joy to his family. We are grateful to everyone for the prayers, support, and kind words. Wade is, however, still sensitive to being touched and to loud noises. We respectfully ask for continued privacy during this time for our family. Thanks for all the love, Lindsey Palmer
Montana Highway Patrol Trooper Wade Palmer. Photo credit: Montana Highway Patrol
Looking for a new member of the family? Call 363-5311 or visit our website at
www.bitterroothumane.org
Bailey
Bitter Root Humane Association would like to thank: 3682 Eastside Highway Stevensville, MT
406-777-3844
HUGE SAVINGS
Colonel Tom Butler, chief of the Highway Patrol, welcomed the news of Trooper Palmer’s continued recovery. “Wade’s progress and courage are sources of inspiration for all of us in the Patrol. Our troopers and law enforcement partners take heart not only in seeing Wade fight through his challenges but also in the outpouring of support from across our great state and beyond. It’s clear that Montanans care about their law enforcement officers. We at the Patrol are thankful that Wade has come so far and are deeply appreciative of all those who continue to help him and cheer him on.”
Now 95 it $37ctor,8 y, Ford Cred
After Fa de-in Rebates and Tra
WAS $51,100
Ford F-150
2.7L V6 EcoBoost Engine, Automatic, 4WD, Remote Start, Power Windows, Door Locks, Power Heated Front Seats, Cruise, Air Conditioning, Navigation, , Full-Screen Backup Camera, Trailer Tow Package, Power Adjustable Pedals, Running Boards, Sliding Rear Window, FX4 OffRoad Package, Sport Package and more
Now $23,995
Ford EcoSp
After Factory Reb
ates
ort
WAS $29,680
2.0L 4-Cylinder, Automatic , 4WD, Remote Start, Power Windows, Door Locks, , Power Heated Seats, Power Drivers Seat, Leather Interior SYNC®3 8” Screen, Navigation, Blind Spot Info System, Full-Screen Backup Camera, Reverse Sensing, Power Moon Roof and much more
Bell McCall
300 W. Main • Hamilton • 363-2011
$
Competitive Prices - Hometown Services
Home Fix-up Headquarters APPLIANCES
$ave Money Repair
Don’t Replace Your Reliable Appliances
363-3592
JOHNSON APPLIANCE SERVICE Parts & Service • 421 S. 1st • Hamilton
Family operated in the Bitterroot Valley for 40 years
WINDOW CLEANING
CARPET CLEANING
Verticals • Wood Blinds • Miniblinds Shades • Pleated • Cellular • Duette® We Beat Ads Claiming 50%-60%-70% off! FREE Measuring, Estimates & Installation Save An Extra $20 on your purchase of $200 or more! 549-2882 • Toll Free 1-888-549-2882
CARPET CLEANING
Windows Right to Your Door!
Western Building Center
Gift Cards Available!
The perfect gift - in any amount! 3956 Highway 93 North, Stevensville
777-1452
777-4256
ADVERTISING
Transform Your Water!
CLEANER * BETTER TASTING WATER! NOW AT 2 LOCATIONS:
Crossword Answers on page 13
New 2019
NEW 2019
Hunter ed classes cancelled FWP is taking the precautionary step to postpone all hunter/ bowhunter education classes across the state until March 30, at which time the situation will be reassessed.
Come see all the wonderful animals waiting for someone special like you!
Hamilton – 406-363-1782 Missoula – 406-728-6400
www.clearwatersystems.com
Advertise here for as little as $10 per week! Call
777-3928
Page 12--Bitterroot Star
Call
777-3928 Deadline Monday
12 noon for Wednesday
SALES/ AUCTIONS BLU-J
ESTATE SALES
Professional Estate and Business Liquidation since 2009
www.bluejayestatesales.com
363-1600
March 19-20 • Victor
Postponed to keep everyone safe, will reschedule soon!
April 9-11 • Grantsdale Address soon. April 23-25 • Darby Address soon. Day One 5pm-8pm Numbers to keep place in line given at 2pm for Day One sale. Following Days 9-12
FARM & GARDEN
WINTER SQUASH, POTATOES. Pro-Mix potting soil. Grain-fed beef and pork and eggs. Moeller’s Nursery, 946 Eastside Hwy, Corvalis. Open daily. 9613389. BAGGED WHOLE-GRAIN livestock feed: wheat, oats, barley. Cracked 3-Way (barley, oats, wheat), new crop hay. GRAIN-FED LOCKER BEEF. Call Russ, 3601125 or 961-3528. PRIVATE TREATY HEREFORD BULLS. MC brand MCMURRY CATTLE BILLING. WEBSITE: mcmurrycattle.com . REASONABLY PRICED PROVEN BALANCED TRAIT GENETICS Delivery available. HP (406) 254 1247. CELL. (406) 697 4040 Email mcmurrycattle@gmail.com FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured free range chickens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, Stevensville. Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb), also steaks!. Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).
BUILDINGS AUTHENTIC TIMBER FRAMED BARNS. Residential and Commercial Timber Packages. Full Service Design - Build Since 1990, (406) 581 3014 brett@bitterrootgroup.com, www.bitterroottimberframes.com
FOR SALE FOR SALE; Troy Bilt Colt front tine rototiller. Get corners and close to fences, etc. Absolutely like new. Used maybe 4 times on small garden. $250. 369-2509.
Classified
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
51 Years of Service
Elaine’s Engraving
& Rubber Stamps
363-5193
123 S. 5TH Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton 7 USED MOBILE HOMES 2010 and newer, in great shape. Call now, they won’t last long! $44,800 - Price includes delivery within 100 miles, blocked, leveled and central air conditioning. Call Jason at (406) 855-2279.
RENTALS FOR RENT - LARGE STUDIO APARTMENT IN VICTOR. $750/ mo. Utilities included except WiFi and cable. Call for appt, 642-3056.
HELP WANTED
YELLOWSTONE TRADITIONS (YT) is seeking hardworking, safety-oriented and dependable Laborers for a project located in Stevensville, MT. Previous experience is a plus but not required. YT is a Montana based, full service general contractor specializing in custom home construction. We work a 4-10 work week, offer competitive wages & have an excellent benefit package! Benefits include: -Health Insurance & option to open a Health Savings Account (HSA) -Flex (Cafeteria) Plan -Dental/Vision Insurance -Short Term Disability / Accident Insurance / Critical Illness Insurance -Employer Paid Long Term Disability, Life Insurance & AD&D. -Matching 401K Retirement Plan -Paid Holidays/Paid Vacation For an application, please email: hr@yellowstonetraditions. com MTFWP is hiring seasonal AIS Watercraft Inspectors statewide. $13.78/hour. High School Diploma or equivalency and Valid Drivers License required. Apply online at statecareers.mt.gov. HOME CARE SERVICES is hiring caregivers and CNAs. Flexible schedule, competitive pay. Apply at 925 N. First Street in Hamilton. Call 375-8637. BITTER ROOT HUMANE ASSOCIATION is seeking a fulltime Operations Manager. Recruiting till filled. For job description and application procedure email: BRHABoardofDirectors@gmail. com MONTANA CONSERVATION CORPS is not your typical summer adventure! Join us for no cost one to four week summer expeditions working on trails. More information and apply: https://mtcorps.org/ join/youth-programs/high-schoolexpedition/
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE SPACE FOR RENT Downtown Stevensville includes: • 24 hr access $300/mo + $35/mo • Remodeled utilities • High visibility • Free parking • Garbage service Call Max 406-360-5728
REAL ESTATE FSBO 5,000 SQ FT COMBINED RETAIL, OFFICE, WAREHOUSE, 365 ft Hwy frontage, 2 acres, (406) 370-7105, $499,000 Eureka, MT. REAL ESTATE– NORTHWEST MONTANA – Company owned. Small and large acre parcels. Private. Trees and meadows. National Forest boundaries. Tungstenholdings.com (406) 293-3714.
SERVICES BITTERROOT MOWER REPAIR - Mobile service and repair of lawn and garden equipment. Serving the Bitterroot Valley. Call: (406) 518-1986.
LEGAL NOTICES
tive
RICHARD A. WEBER , P.C. 345 West Main Street Hamilton, Montana 59840 Telephone: 406/363-6888 Fax: 406/363-2972 Attorney for Personal Representa-
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT. RAVALLI COUNTY In Re the Estate of: ARMAND J. ZAMIARA; Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-20 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Pesonal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Gloria Sanchez. the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of Richard A. Weber. 345 West Main, Hamilton. Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 26th day of February, 2020. ADVERTISING /s/ Gloria Sanchez Personal Representative BS 3-4, 3-11, 3-18-20. MNAXLP NOTICE TO CREDITORS Cause No. DP-20-17 Dept. No. 2
20-Word Personal $8.50 20-Word Commercial $10.50 Each Add’l Word - 20¢ Includes Posting to Web Page
In re the Matter of the Estate of KAREN HILDA JENSEN, Deceased. MONTANA 21st JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT Ravalli County NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within the later of (i) thirty (30) days from the mailing of this notice or (ii) four (4) months from the date notice was first published or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must be mailed to the Personal Representative c/o Matrium Law Group, PLLC, 91 Campus Drive, PMB #2612, Missoula, MT 59801, or filed with the Clerk of the above-titled Court. Dated the 25th of February, 2020 Peter Allen, Personal Representative c/o Jill A. Hughes Matrium Law Group PLLC 317 East Spruce St. Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 370-9252 jill@matriumlaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative BS 3-4, 3-11, 3-18-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BARBARA A. EDENS, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-20-23 Department 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 first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Cynthia A. Stewart, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, ℅ Royce McCarty, Jr., P.O. Box 210, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 25th day of February, 2020. /s/ Cynthia A. Stewart BS 3-4, 3-11, 3-18-20. MNAXLP
tive
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC P.O. Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representa-
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MICHAEL ENGLISH, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-25 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 Alyssa English, 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 2nd day of March 2020. /s/ Alyssa English, Personal
Representative BS 3-11, 3-28, 3-25-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Charity Rae Winn, Charity Rae Winn, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-63/3 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 Charity Rae Winn to Charity Rae Beeler. The hearing will be on April 2, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: February 18, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 3-4, 3-11, 3-18, 3-25-20. MNAXLP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Comprehensive Banking Services The Ravalli County Board of Commissioners is soliciting Request for Proposals for Comprehensive Banking Services. Proposals will be received by the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder, RE: Banking RFP, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, MT 59840 in a SEALED ENVELOPE until 4:00 p.m. Friday, March 27, 2020. Proposals will be opened by the Ravalli County Commissioners at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, March 30, 2020 in the Commissioners’ Conference Room (Third Floor) at 2 15 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT. For a copy of the full Request for Proposals, contact the Ravalli County Finance Department during regular business hours by calling 406-3756524 or by e-mail to kmurphy@rc.mt. gov. For questions concerning the Request for Proposal process, contact Chris Taggart at the Ravalli Commissioners’ Office: 406-375-6500. /s/ Chris Taggart Commissioners’ Administrative Assistant BS 3-11, 3-18-20. MNAXLP
ADVERTISING NOTICE ANNUAL MILL CREEK IRRIGATION DISTRICT MEETING CANCELED Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the Mill Lake Irrigation District meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 21, 2020, at 2 pm at the Corvallis Grange Hall has been canceled. The meeting will be rescheduled at a later date. BS 3-18-20. MNAXLP ANNUAL SCHOOL ELECTION PETITIONS of Stevensville School District No. 2, Ravalli County, Montana for the Election of two (2) trustees to be elected for a three (3) year term for the Stevensville Elementary/High school district. The petitions can be picked up at 300 Park Street, Stevensville, MT at the Superintendent Office or the Business Office. Deadline for petitions is March 26, 2020 by 4:00 p.m. Sincerely, William F. Schiele Business Manager/Clerk BS 3-18-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Thursday, March 26, 2020 7:00 p.m. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of Stevensville Town Council will hold a public hearing on Thursday, March 26, 2020 at 7:00pm to hear and consider public testimony regarding the request to vacate an
alley. The Town has received a petition from Stevensville Public Schools requesting the Town Council to vacate, with a utility’s easement, the Phillips Street right-of-way of the May Addition of Stevensville. Stevensville Public Schools is proposing that the right-ofway for Phillips Street be relocated to the south of the existing street. Written comments may be emailed to clerk@townofstevensville. com or submitted in person or mailed to the Clerk of the Town of Stevensville, 206 Buck Street, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, on or before 5:00 p.m. March 26, 2020 or may be given orally at the hearing scheduled at 7:00 p.m. on March 26, 2020, at Town Hall. Questions may be asked or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271. Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 3-18, 3-25-20. MNAXLP PUBLIC NOTICE 2019 WATER QUALITY REPORT NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the 2019 Water Quality and Consumer Confidence Report for the Town of Stevensville’s municipal water system has been completed. A copy is on file and available at the Stevensville Town Hall, 206 Buck Street, Stevensville MT 59870 or online at www. townofstevensville.com. Attest: Laura Miller, Deputy Clerk BS 03-18-20. 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 8th day of April 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 particularly described as follows: Lot 1B-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 25th day of February, 2020. STEPHEN HOLTON Sheriff of Ravalli County, Montana By: Stephen Holton, Sheriff BS 3-18, 3-25, 4-1-20. MNAXLP
BITTERROOT STAR
BUSINESS DIRECTORY COUNSELING Positive Goal Directed Cognitive Behavioral Counseling
Hank Winters, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Counselor Serving the Bitterroot since 1980 Most insurance plans accepted
363-3882 • 217 N. 3rd, Hamilton
OFFICE SPACE
Professional OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE RCEDA Business Center Hamilton 406.375-9416 www.rceda.org
FINANCIAL
PERSONNEL
Looking for WORK?
MARTIAL ARTS
APPLY TODAY WORK TOMORROW Full Time—Part Time
Starting at $9/hr
Post Office Box 402 - Stevensville MT
406.531.5005 • 406.531.9556 www.fosterandfosterfs.com Securities and Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser
WINDOWCOVERINGS COVERINGS WINDOW
Windows Right to Your Door!
Verticals • Wood Blinds • Miniblinds Shades • Pleated • Cellular • Duette® We Beat Ads Claiming 50%-60%-70% off! FREE Measuring, Estimates FREE Measuring, Estimates & Installation & Installation Save An Extra $20 on your purchase of $200 or more! 549-2882 • Toll Free 1-888-549-2882
SEE US TODAY!
A2Z
186 S. 3rdSt • Hamilton • 363-0723 842 S. 1 St., Hamilton - 363-0723 215 Main • 777-1662 115 W. 3rd, St Ste.• Stevensville 106, Stevensville - 777-1662
BANKING
Located at the Canyons Athletic Club
360-5420
FUNERAL HOME
Whitesitt Funeral Home 314 Church
Stevensville
777-5711
Bill & Helen Kropp Serving the Bitterroot Since 1902
LEGAL NOTICE The Ravalli County Planning Department is inviting public comment on a floodplain permit application for a proposed project within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area of the Bitterroot River. The applicant is Mr. Charlie Lambson. The proposed project will construct a 40 foot x 60 foot shop adjacent the applicant’s house. Approximately 1,200 cubic yards of fill will be used for a building pad and the fill will be sourced from a pond on the applicant’s property. The project is located at 5585 Klements Ln., Florence, in Section 12, T10N, R20W, Ravalli County. Information regarding this application is available at the Ravalli County Planning Department at 215 S 4th St, Suite F in Hamilton. Written comments may be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed (planning@rc.mt.gov) and must be received by Wednesday April 1st, 2020 at 5:00 pm. (Reference Application # FA-20-02).
Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Get local!
For information about advertising in your local paper, call the Bitterroot Star at 777-3928! Crossword Solution
NOTICE OF CLOSE OF REGULAR VOTER REGISTRATION AND OPTION FOR LATE REGISTRATION
NOTICE OF FILING DEADLINE
Notice is hereby given that regular* voter registration for any special purpose district elections, any school elections, and the Community College District of the Bitterroot Valley election, held on May 5, 2020, will close at 5:00 PM on April 6, 2020.
Notice is hereby given that Thursday, March 26, 2020, at 5:00 PM, is the final date for filing an oath of candidacy for trustee for the Community College District of the Bitterroot Valley Election to be held on Tuesday, the 5th day of May, 2020.
*NOTE: If you miss this regular registration deadline, you may still register for the election by showing up at the Ravalli County Election Office up to and including on Election Day. Between noon and the close of business on the day before Election Day, you can complete and submit a voter registration card, but you will need to return to the Ravalli County Election Office on Election Day to pick up and vote a ballot. All qualified active and inactive registered electors of each district are entitled to vote in said elections.
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.
Special purpose district elections, school elections, and the Community College District of the Bitterroot Valley election are being conducted solely by mail ballot. Ballots will automatically be mailed to Active Electors only. If you are a registered voter and do not receive a ballot, contact the county election office to update your information as necessary and receive a ballot.
The Community College District of the Bitterroot Valley Election will be held on May 5, 2020 for district trustees who are not elected by acclamation.
Buy local! 777-3928
Persons who wish to register and who are not presently registered may do so by requesting a form for registration by mail or by appearing at the Ravalli County Election Office, 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, Montana. If you have moved, please update your registration information by filling out a new voter registration card and submitting it to the Ravalli County Election Office.
Dated this 13th day of March, 2020 Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6550
Dated this 13th day of March, 2020 Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6550
Š Feature Exchange
Stevensville Elementary School District Resolution Under SB 307 Resolution of
Stevensville High School District Resolution Under SB 307 Resolution of Intent to
Intent to Impose an Increase in Levies
Display Ad Impose an Increase in Levies
As an essential part of its budgeting process, the Stevensville Board of Trustees is authorized by law to impose levies to support its budget. The Stevensville Board of Trustees estimates the following increases/decreases in revenues and mills for the funds noted below for the next school fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, using certified taxable valuations from the current school fiscal year as provided to the district:
Size: 2 columns wide x 5� long (format to fit) As an essential part of its budgeting process, the Stevensville Board of Trustees is Publish: March 18 & 25, April 1, 2020 Bill To: Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder authorized by law to impose levies to support its budget. The Stevensville Board of 215 South 4th Street, Suite C Trustees estimates the following increases/decreases in revenues and mills for the funds Hamilton, MT 59840 noted below for the next school fiscal year beginning July 1, 2020, using certified taxable valuations from the current school fiscal year as provided to the district: Please verify publication with an affidavit – Thank you!
Fund Supported
Estimated Change in Revenues*
Estimated Change in Mills*
Estimated Impact, Home of $100,000*
Estimated Impact, Home of $200,000*
Fund Supported
Estimated Change in Revenues*
Estimated Change in Mills*
Estimated Impact, Home of $100,000*
Estimated Impact, Home of $200,000*
Adult Education
$ 0 increase/decrease
0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
Adult Education
$ 0 increase/decrease
0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
Bus Depreciation
$ 0 increase/decrease
0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
Bus Depreciation
$ 0 increase/decrease
0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
$ 0 increase/decrease
Transportation
$ 10,000 increase
0.64 increase
$0.87 increase/YR
$1.73 increase/YR
Transportation
$ 10,000 increase
0.49 increase
$ 0.66 increase
$ 1.32 increase
Tuition
$ 20,000 increase
1.28 increase
$ 1.73 increase/YR
$ 3.46 increase/YR
Tuition
$ 10,000 increase
0.49 increase
$ 0.66 increase
$ 1.32 increase
Building Reserve
($ 900) decrease
(0.06) decrease
($0.08) decrease/YR
($0.16) decrease/YR
Building Reserve
($ 400) decrease
(0.02) decrease
($0.03) decrease
($0.06) decrease
Total
$ 29,100 increase
1.87 increase
$2.52 increase/YR
$5.04 increase/YR
Total
$19,600 increase/YR
0.96 mill increase
$1.29 increase/YR
$2.58 increase/YR
*impacts above are based on current certified taxable valuations from the current school fiscal year Regarding the increase in the building reserve levy referenced above, the following are increased school program costs at this time: 1. Increased Special Education Costs not covered by the state or federal programs 2. Asbestos Mitigation 3. Increased Transportation Costs 4. School Safety
*impacts above are based on current certified taxable valuations from the current school fiscal year Regarding the increase in the building reserve levy referenced above, the following are increased school program costs at this time: 1. Increased Special Education Costs not covered by the state or federal programs 2. Asbestos Mitigation 3. Increased Transportation Costs 4. School Safety
VOLUNTEER AMBULANCE & EMT SERVICE GRANTS
Glacier Tree Service 15% off with this ad!! Free Estimates. Lic’d/Ins’d
Winter is the best time for cutting your big trees! CHARITABLE FOUNDATION
TRIMMING • CLEARING • STUMP GRINDING
Serving the Bitterroot Valley • Ask about our spring specials
406-396-4835
Outstanding in his field Merle Unruh
500K
$
IN GRANTS
Town Pump Charitable Foundation realizes that our First Responders are so important in Montana. We want to make sure our Volunteer Ambulance & EMT Services have the equipment and supplies they need.
Neighbors Taking Care of Neighbors. If you know an organization which might qualify -- encourage them to apply today for a Town Pump Charitable Foundation grant.
APPLICATIONS DUE BY 3/31/2020 Spacious Townhouse: Live in 1; Rent the other. 3 BA, 3BR, garage, fireplace, walkin closet, Laundry room
6’x 48’ insulated barn includes office,4 stalls w/floor drains & padded, wash bay, vet area with stocks, etc., all with hot water floor heat. 48’x 72’ attached indoor arena w/half walls. Also shed for machinery/hay storage or more stalls All on 21 acres, warm water stream in all pastures and small pond. Lovely 3 br home, hot water floor heat, propane fireplace, well designed kitchen, heated garage, and mountain view from all rooms.
Call Mark Haldorson! 381-4112 Mark Haldorson
Customer satisfaction Rating: 5.00 / 5
$925,000.
CLIFF TREXLER REALTY 369-2509
Independently validated by Quality Service Certification, Inc.
Call today
Talk to Merle for all your Real Estate Needs! Hamilton 363-4700
Celebrating Local! Wednesday, March 18, 2020
Page 14--Bitterroot Star
Brighten your barn, garage or home with a quilt block from:
Sapphire Barn Quilts
This month we proudly feature
YOU CAN STILL DONATE!
♦Traditional Quilt Blocks ♦Native Designs ♦Custom Designs
You can mail a check to 196 Providence Way Attn: Gina
Hamilton, MT 59840 Or go online to https://secure.qgiv.com/for/bitterroot
sapphirebarnquilts.com Florence MT • 406-381-4539
1600 N. 1st St, Hamilton . 363-1922
Don’t Worry About Stocking Up on Toilet Paper...
Stock up on your Favorite
Liquors & Wines!!!
301 Main Street . Stevensville . 777-5591
Taylor King - agent
401 W Main Street . Hamilton, MT Bus: 406-363-2315 Fax: 406-363-6081
taylor@taylorking.biz
Your Local Insurance Agent!
Convenient Drive-thru Custom Compounding Medication Disposal 3804 Eastside Hwy . Stevensville . 777-5002
Neffs’ Flooring and Design wood
carpet carpet blinds tile tile blinds
vinyl stone
Sale on Now! 406 363-7002
Even though the Linda Massa Youth Home Gala was Canceled,
201 S. Second St. Hamilton 9 am to 5 pm Mon - Fri
off hours by appt.
Doug and Diane Sylling
Sapphire Barn Quilts Do you like splashes of color on your barn or garage? Need something to brighten up an old barn? Look no further than Diane Sylling and her business, Sapphire Barn Quilts, located in Florence. Diane and her husband, Doug, have lived in the Bitterroot for seven years. They came to the Bitterroot from the Augusta/Choteau area where Doug had a handcrafted log home business. The first log home they built after moving to that area was their own. They cut their own logs, used a mule team to haul the logs out, and peeled and fitted logs for the house while living in an insulated wall tent. People liked that home so much and they wanted log homes just like it, so High Country Logsmiths was established. The couple is now in the process of building their own log home on their 10 acres near Florence. Doug is building it himself. They also have dogs and horses. Diane trains the dogs and Doug trains the horses and teaches people how to connect with their own horses. They have a unique garden using permaculture techniques. This has been done using a German method of raised gardening called Hugelkultur. These mounds produce all of the usual garden veggies as well as fruit trees, berries, and herbs. Diane is an herbalist and a Master Gardener. She has medicinal herb plants for sale in season. They are expanding elderberry production and have a variety of herbal products available for sale at all times. Diane examined for title companies but when the last job ended, she decided to reinvent herself. She had seen barn quilts, squares of brightly painted wooden quilt blocks on some buildings around Montana and other places, and decided she would like to paint them herself. Now, Doug cuts the wood to the size of the quilt block. Sizes range from two or four feet square up to 15 or 16 feet. They use marine grade plywood which is made to last in outside weather. Once the cutting is done, Diane gets busy with her priming and painting. She uses bright colored paint and quilting patterns as inspiration in making these barn quilts. “I really enjoy painting and like the idea of providing color in people’s lives,” said Diane. “I’m looking forward to brightening up the Bitterroot Valley.” For more information, email Diane at info@ sapphirebarnquilts.com or go to the website, sapphirebarnquilts.com . Diane’s phone number is 406-3814539.
Thank you for shopping locally.
IT’S SOLARAY SUPPLEMENTS 47 YEAR ANNIVERSARY
Ente cha r for yo nc u a FR e to W r in EE B Cru iser each Bike !
901 N 1st Street • Hamilton • 363-1626
Satisfaction Guaranteed
•
Locally Owned and Operated
Eco Friendly Flooring Solutions Environmentally Friendly • Hypo-Allergenic
Go Green with Flooring made from Recycled Materials! For all your moving needs 3905 US Hwy 93 • Stevensville, Mt • (406) 777-0903
I’ve sold all of my listings,
call me to sell your home!
Call Kim! Serving the Bitterroot since 2007
Kim Lendman 406-531-0783 kim@exitrealtybv.com
$70 Visa Prepaid Card
on Select Get an additional $75 when you put it on your Tire Rama Card!* *See Store for Details . Thru MAR 19TH-APR 20TH
500 North 1st Street • Hamilton, Mt (406) 363-2995
Come in and enjoy some delicious food and friendly service!
Have a Happy Turkey Day From Everyone at the Coffee Cup!
500 S. First, Hamilton • 363-3822 500 S 1st Street . Hamilton . 363-3822