Bitterroot Star - April 17, 2024

BUTTE: EQC votes to send letters of support to Congress

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has a small treatment plant capable of pulling the REEs out. So the technology is already there.

“There is a grant out there to help put projects like this from theory into practice,” he said. “Montana Resources has done some remarkable work and this will give them some scalability. They’ve got to clean it up anyway and this will give them some way to mine while they reclamate, or reclamate while they mine, however you look at it.”

As was reported in the Montana Standard, the Montana Mining Association has submitted a funding proposal to the Department of Defense for the next fscal year to try and fnd ways to recover the materials. They also encouraged West Virginia University, which has been helping study the presence of rare-earth elements in the Berkeley Pit for years and has been developing new technology to recover the materials, to submit a proposal for more funding as well.

According to the Montana Free Press, Montana Mining Association Executive Director Matt Vincent told the EQC at its March 14 meeting that Montana is well-positioned to “cash in on” a national push to establish a domestic supply of rare earth elements so the United States can be less reliant on foreign supplies.

$439 million to establish domestic rare earth element supply chains. This includes separating and refning rare earth elements mined in the U.S., as well as developing downstream stateside processes needed to convert those refned materials into metals and then magnets.

Through the Ofce of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, the Manufacturing Capability Expansion and Investment Program (MCEIP) directorate has embarked on a fve-year rare earth investment strategy to build “mine-to-magnet” domestic capacity at all critical nodes of the rare earth supply chain. Those critical nodes include sourcing, separation, processing, metallization, alloying and magnet manufacturing.

ment will be able to meet its future demand for magnets without overseas dependencies,” it states on the DOD site.

Mark Thompson at Montana Resources told the EQC that researchers from the Montana Bureau of Mines and Geology and West Virginia University found signifcant quantities of zinc, manganese, yttrium, lanthanum and cerium in the Berkeley Pit’s water.

valuable minerals. “DOD has told me personally that this is one of the most advanced, shovel-ready projects they have in the country right now,” Thompson is quoted as saying. “I think it can go somewhere.”

It states on the Department of Defense’s website that, since 2020, the agency has awarded more than

While the bulk of the DOD funding has gone into the development of rare earth element processing facilities and magnet manufacturing, MCEIP has also invested $10 million to explore the in rare earths from both defense and commercial manufacturers. With these

According to Thompson, there are clear benefts to building a rare earth and critical element “concentrator” in the United States — ideally near the Berkeley Pit’s water treatment plant, which is capable of processing about 5,000 gallons of water per minute. Concentra

THOMAS: Stevensville Community Foundation recognizes his service

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believe in philanthropy.”

The foundation holds places on the board for high school students, which Thomas believes is really great for young people. “They are able to see the process, and learn why it’s so import ant to give back.”

Giving back to the community is accomplished by the tireless work of many individuals. In the early days of the foundation Thomas said that Jan Perin, Pat Powell and Cheryl Baldwin worked their tails of organizing the Festival of Trees and were incredibly generous with their time and skills. Funds raised from these events have enabled the foundation to award numerous grants to projects that specifcally address local needs. Some familiar projects that have beneftted from these grants are the walkway to the river, the splash pad and the playground at Lewis and Clark Park, and improvements at the local swimming pool, to name a few.

A reader’s theater

Stevensville home,” said Jodsaas. “We would love to see the community center get built and hope to fnd a location with the ability to expand and grow along with the community.”

Grants are awarded twice a year, in the spring and the fall, and are reviewed by the board who decides what project will best serve the community. Early fundraising also allowed the purchase of property, with the intent of building a community center. Thomas refers to this project as “The Dream.” A collective space for everyone, with room for large events. The community center has been in the works for 20 years, according to Thomas. “If there was ever a project destined for stops, this is it,” said Thomas. Due to various reasons and roadblocks, such as infation and trafc problems which then become resident problems, the progress of this project

Especially meaningful to Thomas was the opportunity to work with so many super people. “These are the doers, the pillars of the community, the people who get things done,” said Thomas. He gave special thanks to Steve Peckinpaugh, Rob Carnes, Chad Smith, Cody Velin, JoyceAnne Jodsaas, Tim Unger, Sandy Bollom, Lee Starck and Laurie Pelham. “Their work has been invaluable,” said Thomas.

When asked what he plans on doing with his free time, Thomas expressed that he has two young grandchildren and that is what his life is all about now. Happy retirement, Bob!

To recognize Thomas’ service, the foundation board of directors is asking people to make a donation in his honor. Donations can be sent to: Stevensville Community Foundation, PO Box 413, Stevensville MT 59870.

Adult content and is not appropriate for children!

Friday April 19 at 7 PM.

Doors open at 6 PM, seating starts at 6:30 PM.

Admission is free.

There is a bake sale fundraiser along with it.

year. She has seen a lot of support this year, and attributes that to the fact that this will be the second time they have done the breakfast. She believes that the frst time people were not really sure what the event was about. Now, Neyenhuis said, people

love it and are excited to come back.

“Pretty much everyone I know that is a baker is donating a pie,” said Neyenhuis.

Last year, 71 pies were donated, and this year so far they have over 40 pies. She foresees many more coming in.

The event will involve two pie lines, where people can get pie, then they sit and listen to the live music. During the fundraiser, there will also be a silent auction and a rafe. Neyenhuis said there is a ton of stuf in the auction, including gift baskets, fowers, seedlings, science kits for kids, nice pork roasts and cuts of meat, photo prints, art, and they are still getting donations for the auction and rafe. Neyenhuis brought

the idea back with her from Wolcott, Vermont, where she participated in a similar event benefting a library. She thought it was such a cool event that she needed to bring it to the Bitterroot for people to enjoy. “It’s just really relatively simple,” said Neyenhuis. And, she also said that it is efective, citing that last year, in only two and a half hours, they were able to raise $4,500. Neyenhuis has higher hopes for this year’s fundraiser. Not only will people be familiar with the event this time around, but Neyenhuis was excited to speak about the benefting

organization. “People, once they learn what she does, they will be really excited to donate,” said Neyenhuis. This year, all the proceeds will be going to Loads of Dignity at the Fast and Flufy Laundromat.

Loads of Dignity works to help unhoused and low-income community members regarding their hygiene. According to their website, “Many of us don’t think twice about getting a clean towel out of the cupboard before stepping into our shower or putting on freshly laundered clothing retrieved from our closets. Too many of our neighbors do not have this convenience and think of this as being a ‘luxury.’ We ofer our services to our homeless and low-income neighbors 6 days a week.” Their services are by appointment only, and must be made 24 hours ahead of time. They also provide all manner of things community members may not be aware of, from shower vouchers to hygiene products. Pie Breakfast visitors and community members can donate with cash, check or QR code and they can also bring hygiene products like laundry soap and

Photo courtesy Marisa Neyenhuis.

YOUTH: two upcoming events ofer outdoor opportunities

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The event’s purpose is to help the organizations get as many kids into camps as they can, and to spread awareness of these opportunities to youth in the valley.

During the event, participating youth and their families will travel around the event area visiting booths set up by all the organizations, and the camps. At each event booth, they will have hosts sign of on a sheet they carry around with them. If the youth get at least 12 event booths to sign, they can put their information in for a raffe drawing for their favorite camp. If drawn, they will get a guaranteed and sponsored spot in that camp.

Montana Matters Youth Outdoor Experience, in partnership with Montana Conservation Elders and First Hunt Foundation, will sponsor up to 150 kids to go to camp. The camp representatives attending will each set

up their own booth to talk to visitors about their programs and opportunities. The camps are all between 1 to 5 days, and reach kids between the ages of seven and 18, depending on the camp. These camps range in scope from archery, Glacier National Park visits, outdoor skills, fshing, hiking, hunting and conservation to horse packing and much more.

Organizers Fred Upchurch and Tom Powers highlighted some of the camps that will be represented.

One of these is Project ASCENT, a youth program for ages 12 to 15 that does a number of activities during their camps, including a 20-mile pack trip down the Flathead River, rock climbing and backpacking. Another is Trout Unlimited, which teaches fy fshing for youth during the summer at Georgetown Lake for 20 students between 11 and 14 years old. These are just two of dozens of youth summer adventure opportunities.

Barnie is an afectionate, gentle, and funny fellow who loves nothing more than to snuggle up on his favorite couch (or bed!). He’s a true cuddle bug and loves giving and receiving kisses. If you’re looking for a companion who loves people as much as they love him, look no further than Barnie! He’s a fan of relaxing and taking it easy, and would prefer a quiet home where he can live out his golden years in peace and tranquility. Barnie may be missing some teeth, but he has plenty of love to make up for it! If you have kids or other dogs, Barnie would love to meet them! This senior sweetheart is eager to fnd his forever home, so come meet him today and give this good boy the retirement he deserves!

Though most of these camps only accept a limited age range, people of any age can attend the event. In fact, Powers and Upchurch encourage everyone to attend the family event. There will be numerous educational activities, giveaways and more.

If the weather permits, the event will have Mrs. Montana fy over the fairgrounds and possibly jumpers dive out with fags and parachute down. This was planned for the event last year, but the weather did not allow it. The event will also include two climbing walls, the Forest Service’s 9-Mile pack string of mules with a packing demonstration, food available for purchase and much more.

The Montana Matters Youth Outdoor Experience event is free to attend.

The second event will be the Youth Conservation and Education Expo which will take place at the Teller Wildlife Refuge on May 18, between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.

According to Nicole Ballard, the conservation education director for Teller Wildlife Refuge, their event will draw over 30 diferent conservation and recreation groups. The groups will host various activities, including topics on everything from archery to wildlife.

There will be several 20- to 60-minute presentations that

will include live wildlife, bear dog demonstrations, nature journaling, duck calling and more. The event will also include a fre truck, trout pond, climbing wall, archery station, pack mules and food trucks. There will be a rafe, where each organization donated a conservation- or recreation-themed item. Youth participants will get 10 tickets to enter into any item rafe they want, to be drawn at the end of the event.

The Teller Wildlife Refuge event will be free to attend, and families are encouraged to explore together. There will be a bus running from the fairgrounds to the refuge, and back, every half hour, starting in Hamilton at 10:30 a.m. The bus leaves the refuge on the hour, running until 3 p.m. When the event ends it will take participants back to Hamilton.

Though there will be crossover as far as some of the opportunities and organizations at both events, each one specializes in certain areas. Organizers encourage the community to visit both. Ballard described them, saying, “Ours is more about creating an experience on the day to expose them to conservation and recreation.” According to Ballard, the goal of the other is to fll camps at future dates, while simultaneously granting education experiences, while the Teller’s event works more heavily on education and experiences on the day-of. When asked about why they do what they do, organizers spoke about their passion for the outdoors, and how they believe that passion

afected them in a positive way throughout life. According to Upchurch, one of the reasons he is so excited about what they do is, “I was lucky enough to enjoy all this, so it’s time for me to give back.” For him, it is important that youth learn to become “comfortable using all these gorgeous resources,” and to know how to do it with a conscience and with sustainability in mind.

According to Powers, “The goal of Montana Conservation Elders is to get our youth engaged in outdoor fun and recreation that explores Montana’s beautiful public lands and wildlife. We strive to teach the glorious history of conservation in our state.” Powers said he “did not have these opportunities growing up. These are great camps for these kids!”

• Proven

Finally, Ballard, who has been in her current position with the refuge since 2021, expressed that, though she only recently got into this type of work, it has been a great ft. She got a degree in wildlife biology and wanted to work with wildlife in order to conserve it. However, in her current position, she has discovered that in “shifting from working with wildlife directly to working with future generations,” she has been able to efect conservation in a much greater capacity. For her, the point of these events is to introduce kids to these opportunities.

For more information on the Montana Matters Youth Outdoor Experience, interested parties can visit the Montana Conservation Elders website, mtconservationelders.org. For information about the Teller Wildlife Refuge and their upcoming event, interested parties can visit tellerwildlife.org.

- Passed most bills of all frst-term legislators.

- Ranked in top 15 of all 100 Montana Representatives.

• Conservative

- Cut funding for unneeded state positions.

- Held spending growth to less than the infation rate.

- Reduced state regulation of local government.

- Supported healthcare reform that helps low-income workers, aids small business, and protects Montana’s hospitals.

• Leader

- Waged successful campaign to expand veteran services.

- Chairing a key education subcommittee.

- Leading the efort to increase vocational education opportunities across Montana.

Calendar continued

Montanans for Life

Montanans for Life will hold their monthly meeting on the frst Thursday of every month at 6PM at More to Come Fellowship, 330 3rd Ave., Victor. For more information call (406) 407-1254.

A COURSE OF LOVE study group

Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon.

Center for Spiritual Life Hamilton

Call: 406-381-6480

Call for nominations

The Florence Civic Club is accepting nominations until April 30th for its Community Service Award for 2024. This award honors a local person for outstanding contribution of service to the Florence community. Their service may be through involvement in their community, church, nonproft organization, the schools, or simply individually. Past winners have been active in securing grants for trails, developing a local homework help program, fund raising for local scholarships, and other community enhancement activities.

Send your nomination with an account of the nominee’s activities to:

Florence Civic Club

Attention Community Service Award P.O. Box 544 Florence, MT 59833

A Course of Love study group

Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon.

Center for Spiritual Life, Hamilton

Call: 406-381-6480

Volunteer at St. Mary’s Mission

Share your talents! If you enjoy history, like to meet people, and be involved in your community, there’s a place for you! No matter your background or level of experience, there’s a role for you to play. Whether you can spare a few hours a week or a month, our schedule is fexible. Join in making a diference and leave a lasting legacy for future generations. Visit the website: saintmarysmission.org or call (406) 777-5734.

Florence American Legion

Florence American Legion Post 134 is having a free pancake breakfast

on the frst Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Hall.

North County Democrats

The North County Democrats will not be meeting on Thursday evenings again until fall. Feel free to stop by their booth on Saturdays beginning May 4th in Hamilton at the Farmers Market (in American Legion Park), 2nd and Bedford Street. Check out website and newsletter at RavDems.com

Bitterroot Celtic Society

The Bitterroot Celtic Society meets every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton. The Bitterroot Celtic Society is a passionate group of volunteers, dedicated to keeping the Celtic culture, heritage, and history alive in the Bitterroot Valley. Their biggest event is the Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering, held every third weekend in August at the Historic Daly Mansion. They also host a Burns’ Night supper, St. Andrew’s, St. Patrick’s, and Tartan day events. The BCS is a non-proft organization. The public, new members, and the curious are always welcome to attend. For any time changes or additional committee meeting info, follow their Facebook page for updates.

NV Library events

Read to Dogs – Mon. April 22 & 29 at 4:30pm

Children are invited to meet a certifed therapy dog and practice reading to these trained canine companions. Join us in this opportunity for an eager audience to practice a paragraph or page from your favorite book. Books will be available, but kiddos are encouraged to bring whatever they are currently reading. Registration requested but not required.

Accordion Club

The Accordion Club will hold music jams at the Missoula Senior Center from 1 to 4 p.m. on the following dates:

April 28th, Annual Meeting, 12-4 p.m.

May 12th, Mother’s Day

Everyone is welcome. $6 fee at the door. Polka, swing, waltz and 2-step dances. Good dance music and fun for all. For more info, contact Helen Steele, 406-369-1839.

Trekker Kids programs

Rest State Park near

Travelers’

Lolo began its annual Trekker Kids program series Saturday, March 9. The free, interactive programs are geared towards kids ages 4-10 and their families. The one-hour programs run every other Saturday through May 18 beginning at 11 a.m.:

April 6: Fire in the pines/discover more about wildfre

April 20: Native games

May 4: Gift of the Bitterroot/fower art and Indigenous culture

May 18: Raptors of the Rockies/ meet real raptors For more information, contact Travelers’ Rest State Park (6717 Hwy 12, Lolo) at 406-273–4253 or visit travelersrest.org under the events page.

College info session

An informational meeting on Bitterroot College - UM and Bitterroot Valley Community College will be held Friday, April 19 at 9 a.m. at Flying S

Title & Escrow, 1438 1st in Hamilton.

Come learn more about each college and enjoy light snacks and beverages. Bitterroot College - UM director Kristina Berger will speak about the ofering of the college, beginning at 9 a.m.

Carrie Guarino, Trustee Chairman, will tell the story of the BVCC and answer questions, beginning at 10 a.m.

Pachyderm Club

The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, April 19 at 12 noon at The Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be State Representative David Bedey, HD86. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.

Fish & Wildlife Assn.

The Ravalli County Fish & Wildlife Association general meeting will be Monday, April 22nd, 6:30 p.m. at the Daly Leach Community Room, 1010 W. Main, Hamilton. Guest speakers will be FWP Region 2 Fisheries Biologist

Jason Lindstrom on fsheries, and FWP Region 2 Wildlife Technician

Bruce Montgomery talking about bears in the Bitterroot. General meetings are open to the public. Anyone interested in wildlife issues is encouraged to attend.

Republican Women

Ravalli County Republican

Women’s Club will hold its monthly meeting and lunch on Tuesday, April 23 at 11:30 a.m. at BJ’s Restaurant in Hamilton. Guest speakers will be Kim Dailey, candidate for HD88, and Robert Wallace, candidate for HD86.

Driver safety course

Bitterroot Health, 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton, will host an ALL NEW AARP Driver Safety Program on Friday, April 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This new safe driving course is designed for drivers age 50 and over, but all drivers are welcome. The new program features laws specifc to Montana, Defensive Driving, Winter Driving and new Vehicle Technologies. There are no driving tests or written exams and Montana mandates insurance discounts for qualifed drivers. Issued certifcates are good for 3 years! Class fees are $20.00 for AARP members; $25.00 for non-members. Class size is limited; pre-registration is advised. For class sign up, call Jones Korman Insurance at 406-363-6583. For further information, call Thom Ainsworth, Instructor, at 369-0149.

Victor Cemetery Association

Semi annual meeting, April 30th at 5:30pm, meet at the Victor Museum. If you have questions, call Maxine Krowen at (541) 892-6715.

Stevensville Garden Club

Stevensville Garden Club’s monthly meeting will be Wednesday, May 1, at Our Savior Lutheran Church, 184 Pine Hollow Rd. Missoula County Plant Clinic Coordinator Sandy Perrin will share “Dirty Secrets: Unearth the Art of Soil Testing and Building.” Have you had problems with your garden not growing well? Need to test your soil to fgure out what’s going on? Sandy Perrin with Missoula County Extension will give you the soil testing information to help you succeed this year. Common soil amendments will be analyzed for their nutrient components. If you have any plants or questions on something that is bugging you – bring them. A picture or leaf sample is helpful.

National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer will be Thursday, May 2nd from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Lone Rock Bible Church, 1142 Three Mile Creek Road, Stevensville. Opening with inspiration-

al and patriotic music featuring Linda Lanier. Come join our nation for a time of prayer.

Florence HS class reunion

Florence Carlton Class of ‘79 will be having their 45th reunion on June 28-30 at Priest

Sports

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

Bitterroot athletes shine in Missoula

The Bitterroot Valley high school track teams were in Missoula on Saturday, April

the Hamilton girls took 3rd, while the Hamilton boys took 5th. The Corvallis girls took

Bitterroot athletes fnished in the top 6 at the meet:

13th for the annual MCPS Invitational. In this meet, Bitterroot Valley athletes get to compete against AA talent, with six AA schools competing alongside A, B and C schools from Western Montana. And the Bitterroot athletes certainly held their own.

In the team standings,

For Hamilton:

4th, while the Corvallis boys took 6th. The Florence girls fnished 11th and the Florence boys took 13th. The Stevi girls took 13th while the boys took 14th. With such an abundance of high level athletes participating, a top fnish in any event is impressive. The following

The Florence softball team opened their season in dominating fashion last week, going 4-0 and winning by a combined score of 74-6. The Lady Falcons have won four of the last six state titles in Class B/C softball. Florence lost out of the state tournament last year after winning back-to-back state titles in 2021 and 2022.

Florence 26, Deer Lodge 2; Florence 17, Deer Lodge 1

On Tuesday, April 9th, the Lady Falcons went to Deer Lodge for a double hitter. They won the frst game 26-2 and the second 17-1. In the frst game, they scored 18 runs in the 1st inning and the game only lasted 3 innings. Florence pitcher Kenzy Pickering got the win, striking out 4 and allowing 1 hit. Ofensively, Taylor Pyette went 3 of 4 and had a whopping 8 RBIs. Maggie Schneiter went 2 for 2, hit a home run, stole 3 bases and scored 4 runs, and Jayden Fisher and Kaylee Crawford each had 2 RBIs.

In the second game, Florence won 17-1 in 4 innings. Florence’s Jayden Fisher got the win, striking out 4 and

Mya Winkler took 1st in the discus (131-02), and 2nd in the shot put (36-11) and javelin (11305). Andrew Burrows took 1st in the discus (170-07) and took 2nd in the shot put (54-02). Annalise Lewis won the 800m (2:17.53) and took 3rd in the 1600m (5:15.74).

Tyson Bauder took 1st in the javelin (194-09). Evan Bennett took 1st in the 800m (1:55.31). The girls 4x400 relay team of Nadia Bruno, Lily Apedaile, Jenna Ellis, and Annalise Lewis took 1st (4:06.56). Taylor Doleac took 3rd in the 3200m (9:43.89). Ashlynn McKern took 3rd in the shot put (3510.50). Nadia Bruno took 4th in the 200m (26.64) and 5th in the 100m (13.02). Brayden Lanser took 4th in the 800m (2:00.28). Aleigha Child took 4th in the 1600m (5:28.16) and 6th in the 3200m (11:52.64).

Aubrey Korst took 4th in the pole vault (10-06). Tyana Jessop took 5th in the shot put (34-00.50) and 6th in the discus (103-01). Ayda

Alanna Auch took 2nd in the discus (115-07) and 6th in the shot put (32-11). Jack Davidson took 2nd in the 3200m (9:43.12). Hunter Loesch took 2nd in the javelin (18007). Laurie Davidson took 3rd in the 3200m (11:36.45). Levi Reynoso took 4th in the javelin (168-06). Meredith Buhler took 4th in the shot put (35-03). The 4x400 relay team of Logan Avery, Derek Criddle, Ayden Spencer, Solomon Morgan took 4th (3:32.02). Ella Varner took 5th in the long jump (1610.5). Shaylee Weidow took 5th in the 400m (1:02.83). Isaac Stoker took 6th in the shot put (48-09). The girls 4x100 relay team of Ella Varner, Olivia Lewis, Jillian Huls, Farah Wyche took 3rd (49.89). And the 4x400 relay team of Olivia Lewis, Ella Varner, Farah Wyche,

Grifn took 5th in the discus (103-05). The boys 4x400m relay team of Jake McCarthy, Brayden Lanser, Carter Korst, and Evan Bennett took 5th (3:32.43).

For Corvallis: Olivia Lewis won the 300m hurdles (44.06) and took 2nd in the 100m hurdles (14.73). Wyatt Miles won the shot put (56-08). Derek Criddle took 2nd in the 400m (49.72) and took 4th in the high jump (6-00).

Shaylee Weidow took 3rd (4:12.33).

For Florence, Bailey Kroeker took 3rd in the 400m (1:02.43), 5th in the 200m (26.64) and 6th in the 100m (13.07). And Isaac Bates took 4th in the 400m (51.93)

For Darby, Natalie Anderson took 6th in the 300m hurdles (49.61).

For Stevensville, Scarlett Gard took 3rd in the javelin (109-09).

Florence softball starts with a bang

allowing 1 hit. At the plate, Olivia Coulter hit a 3-run home run, Ava Philbrick went 1 for 3 with 2 RBIs, and Lily Bender, Hailey Sutton and Jayden Fisher each had an RBI.

Florence 19, Plains 3

On Friday, April 12th, Florence defeated Plains 19-3 at Fort Missoula in 2 ½ innings - they scored 17 runs in the 2nd inning alone. Florence pitcher Autumn Sutton got the win. At the plate, Reiley Reed hit a triple and had 3 RBIs, and Lily Bender, Ava Philbrick, Jayden Fisher, Taylor Pyette each had a hit and an RBI.

Florence 12, MAC 0

Also on Friday at Fort Missoula, Florence defeated rival MAC 12-0. Florence pitcher Kenzy Pickering was masterful on the mound; she struck out 8 and didn’t allow a hit or a run.

At the plate for Florence, Ava Philbrick went 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBIs, Olivia Coulter went 2 for 3 with a home run and 2 RBIs, Lily Bender went 1 for 3 and had 2 RBIs, and Taylor Pyette went 2 for 3 with 3

RBIs.

Softball Roundup

Corvallis 21, Stevensville 13

Stevensville hosted Corvallis on Thursday, April 11th and Corvallis won 21-13 in a shootout. At the plate for Corvallis, Jadyn Greenwood went 3 for 5 with a home run and 3 RBIs, Emma Cashell went 3 for 5 with 3 RBIs, Sophie Cooper went 4 for 6 with 4 RBIs, and Makaia McEwen went 3 for 5 with 5 RBIs.

Ofensively for Stevensville, Lilly Newsom went 2 for 5 with 3 RBIs, Maddy Davids went 3 for 5 with 2 RBIs, Maddix Yeager went 2 for 4 with 2 RBIs, Layla Brushia went 2 for 5 with 1 RBI, and Kenzi Frost went 2 for 4.

Corvallis 13, Butte Central 12

Corvallis hosted Butte Central on Friday, April 12th and won 13-12. Corvallis pitcher Ella Daly got the win. Offensively for Corvallis, Emma Cashell went 2 for 3 with 4 RBIs, and Jadyn Greenwood, Ava Loran, and Ella Daly all went 3 for 4 with an RBI.

Stevensville 4, Frenchtown 15

Stevensville hosted Frenchtown on Saturday, April 13th and lost 4-15. At the plate for Stevensville, Maddy Davids went 3 for 3 with 2 RBIs, Jaidan Oyler went 1 for 3 with an RBI, Kacey Springer went 1 for 2 with an RBI, and Lilly Newsom went 2 for 3 and scored 2 runs.

Hamilton 6, Frenchtown 8

Hamilton traveled to Frenchtown on Tuesday, April 9th and lost their frst game of the season 6-8. For Hamilton, Addison Flynn went 1 for 2 with 2 RBIs, Cierra Cole went 2 for 3 with an RBI, and Mariah Johnson went 3 for 4 and scored 2 runs.

Hamilton 12, Butte Central 0

Hamilton hosted Butte Central on Friday, April 12th and won 12-0. Hamilton pitcher Mel Race got the win, allowing only 1 hit and striking out 6. Ofensively for Hamilton, Cierra Cole went 2 for 3 with 4 RBIs, Mel Race went 3 for 3 with 2 RBIs, and Haylee Beall went 1 for 4 with an RBI.

Above, Corvallis’ Olivia Lewis won the 300m hurdles and took 2nd in the 100m hurdles at the MCPS Invitational on Saturday, April 13th. Lewis’ 300m time is the fastest in the state this year. Photo by Scott Sacry.

Four Bitterroot Valley sprinters in the 100m dash at the MCPS Invitational. Starting second from left, to right: Stevensville’s Brogan Gard, Hamilton’s Tyson Bauder, Corvallis’ Solomon Morgan, and Florence’s Isaac Bates. Photo by Scott Sacry.

Above, Hamilton’s Annalise Lewis leading the pack in the 800m at the MCPS Invitational on Saturday, April 13th. Lewis’ 800m time is the second fastest in the state. Photo by Scott Sacry.

Sports

Falcons edge Broncs in baseball

The Hamilton baseball team hosted Florence on Thursday, April 11th, and in a close and competitive game, Florence edged Hamilton 6-5. With the score tied 5-5 in the top of the 7th inning, Florence’s Mason Arlington hit a double to drive in the winning run.

Florence’s Drew Wagner had a huge game, he went 4 for 4, hit 2 home runs and had 2 RBIs. Also for Florence, Mason Arlington went 2 for 4 with an RBI and Wes Potter went 2 for 3 with 2 RBIs. For Hamilton, Atticus Southwell and Tyce O’Connell each had RBIs and Boedy Tadvick, Hunter Harrness and Jackson Ludke each had a double.

Baseball Roundup

Hamilton 11, Dillon 7 Hamilton went to Dillon on Saturday, April 13th and won 11-7. Hamilton pitcher Tyce O’Connell got the win. Offensively for Hamilton, Boedy Tadvick went 2 for 4 with an RBI, Tyce O’Connell went 3 for 3, Hunter Harrness went 3 for 4 with 2 RBIs, and Atticus Southwell went 3 for 4 with 4 RBIs.

Florence 10, Butte Central 1

Florence traveled to Butte Central on Tuesday, April 9th and mastered the Maroons, winning 10-0 in 5 innings. Florence pitcher Cole Fray-Parmantier got the win, striking out 4 and only allowing 3 hits. Ofensively for the Falcons, Drew Wagner went 2 for 4 with 3 RBIs, Jake Roth went 2 for 2 with 2 RBIs, and Wes Potter went 2 of 3 with an RBI.

Corvallis 24, Whitefsh 14

On Tuesday, April 9th, Corvallis hosted Whitefsh and won 24-14. The Blue Devil bats blistered with 24 runs on 23 hits. For the Corvallis ofense, basically the whole lineup got into the action. Owen Marston went 2 of 4 with 4 RBIs, Justus Brickley went 4 for 5 and scored 4 runs, Reese Earp went 2 for 4 with 4 RBIs, Aydan Mayn went 3 of 6 with 3 RBIs, Brandon Brenneman went 4 for 5 with 4 RBIs, Bobby Truc went 2 for 2 and scored 2 runs, Andrew Pintok went 3 of 5 with 2 RBIs, Maurice Craun

went 2 for 3 and scored 3 runs, and Bennett Boelman went 1 for 4 with 2 RBIs.

Corvallis 11, Stevensville 1

Corvallis hosted Stevensville on Thursday, April 11th and Corvallis won 11-1. Corvallis pitcher Brandon Brenneman got the win, allowing 3 hits and striking out 3 batters over 3 innings. Ofensively for Corvallis, Bobby Truc went 1 for 2 with 3 RBIs, Reese Earp went 2 for 3, scored 2 runs and had 2 RBIs, Aydan Mayn went 2 for 3, scored 3 runs and had 2 RBIs, and Maurice Craun went 1 for 3 with 2 RBIs. For Stevensville, Evan Montague went 2 for 3 and scored

a run, and Cole Germane and Drake Springer each had hits.

Corvallis 15, Butte Central 8 Corvallis went to Butte Central on Friday, April 12th and won 15-8. For Corvallis, Reese Earp went 2 for 4 with 3 RBIs, Aydan Mayn went 2 for 5 with 3 RBIs, and Owen Marston went 3 for 5 with an RBI.

Tennis Roundup

Hamilton Tennis

Hamilton’s tennis coach Bryan Dufresne is optimistic about this year’s team, and thinks they have a chance to do great things in divisionals and state. “We have a fantastic group of kids,” said Dufresne. “We have 49 kids out, which is an all time high as far as I know.”

Hamilton played at Loyola on Tuesday, April 9th and continued their winning ways this season. The boys won 6-1, while the girls won 4-3. Here are the results:

Boys Singles:

1 (H) Andy Purcell def. Dillon Taylor 7-5, 2-6, (10-8)

2 Nathaniel Read-Smith def. (H) Carden Nelson 6-7 (3-6), 6-4, 6-0

3 (H) Micah Van Sickle def. Mathew Camp 6-3, 6-4

4 Alex Jasperson def. (H) Cash Hawkes 3-6, 7-6 (7-5) (10-6)

Boys Doubles:

1 (H) Finn Dufresne/ Jason Chaplain def. Topp/ Kirschennman 6-3, 6-4

2 (H) Kaden Carroll/ Francesco Barufni default

3 (H) Daniel Simmerman/Keaton Martin default

Girls Singles:

1 Ava Bellamah def. (H) Tallulah Pinjuv 7-5, 6-2

2 (H) Ciara Hanley def. Morgan Neibauer 6-1, 6-1

3 (H) Sam Geroy def. Mikenly Deschamps 1-6, 6-2 (10-5)

4 Katie Read-Smith def. (H) Lily Monaco 6-1, 6-4

Girls Doubles: 1 (H) Emma Hollingsworth/Gwen Wolfe def. Weemsley/Boddad 6-1, 6-3

2 (H) Codie Clarke/Charlie Holmes def. Harrington/ McHugh 6-1, 6-4

3 Van Dorsten/Agguen def. (H) Anna Twardoski/ Alexis Kaul 6-2, 6-4

Stevensville Tennis

The Stevensville tennis team had a solid turn out this year with 9 boys and 14 girls. Longtime Stevensville head coach Bill Everett is excited for this season. “It’s a very nice turn out with the girls. Five freshman girls (two boys) makes the future for Stevensville tennis look promising,” said Everett. “With 14 girls working hard at improving their game, this season is shaping up nicely.”

The Stevensville tennis team traveled to Butte Central on Thursday, April 11th. The Stevensville girls won 5-1 while the boys won 3-2. Here are the results:

Girls Singles:

1 (S) Dani Felton def. Mollie Drew 6-2, 6-2

2 (S) Cecilia Franchi def.

Kate Johnston 7-6, 6-2

3 (S) Jackie Reed def. Lucy Kelly 7-6 (7-4), 1-6, 10-7

4 (S) Tasia Rohbock def. Sara Abelhag 6-0, 6-3

Girls Doubles: 1 Johnston/Kelly def. (S) Tanna Bailey/Nevaeh Meeder 6-4, 6-4

2 (S) Nika Hulling/ Avery Sacry def. Abelhag/ Drew 6-4, 6-4

Boys Singles: 1 Jim Bradshaw def. (S)

Jeremiah St. Germain 6-1, 6-4

2 Tanner Robertson def. (S) Drake Tully 6-4, 6-2

3 (S) Jason Agostino def. Joe Bradshaw 6-1, 6-1

4 (S) Drake Tully def. Joe Bradshaw 6-0, 6-2

Boys Doubles: Bradshaw/Robertson def. (S) Jason Agostino/ Jeremiah St. Germain 5-7, 6-4, 10-8

Florence golf wins Wild Horse Invite

The Florence and Darby golf teams were in Plains on Friday, April 12 for the Wild Horse Plains Golf Invite. Both the boys and girls teams from

Florence took 1st place. The Darby boys (Austin Ward, Gus Harrell, Jordan Browning, and Emerson Atkins) took 8th place.

For the Florence boys, Brody Duchien took 1st, Rollie Fisher took 2nd, Tyler Abbott took 6th, Quintan Monaco took 10th, and Ian McLean took 11th.

For the Florence girls, Kipley Solari took 4th, Laci Ketelhut took 8th, Alyx Monaco took 11th, Reese Briney took 11th,

and Lexi Danczyk took 16th. The Florence golf team plays at Eureka on April 17 and 18, and then again at Thompson Falls on April 20.

The Florence girls and boys golf teams both took 1st place in the Wild Horse Plains Golf Invite in Plains on Friday, April 12th. Photo by Kurt Solari.

Hamilton’s Conner Ekin pitching in the Broncs game against Florence on Thursday, April 11th. Florence defeated Hamilton 6-5. Photo by Scott Sacry.

Obituaries

Martie A. Davenport

Martie A. Davenport, 72 has now gone to the Lord, April 8th, 2024 at 5:20 p.m.

A limb has fallen from the family tree. Still reaching are her children, Bo Davenport and Jenny Davenport; siblings, Tony Gavski (74) and Paul Gavski (85); also her grandchildren, London Davenport and Liam Sutor.

Martie was born December 1, 1951 in Portage,

Carol Lewis, 60, of Missoula and formerly of Colstrip, passed away Monday, January 8th due to injuries sufered in a motor vehicle accident. Surrounded by family and friends, she passed peacefully to the recorded music of her beloved husband, Rich Lewis, whom she now joins.

Carol was born Friday, October 18th, 1963 to Rose and Charlie Anderson in Polson, MT. She graduated from Stevensville High School in 1981 and moved to Great Falls, MT to attend College of Great Falls, now University of Providence, from where she graduated with degrees in math and science education. The College of Great Falls is also where Carol met her husband, and the love of her life, Rich Lewis. Carol and Rich were married August 11, 1984 in Stevensville, going on to have four children: Rick, Jessy, Nathan, and Caleb.

In addition to being a mother of four, Carol worked as a high school and middle school math

WI, along side her 11 siblings. All of her life teaching, reliving the farm life is what she wanted and she did. All bets aside, we all know she has the dirt from the farm in between her toes.

Outside and within being bold, stubborn, classy, and with the highest form of integrity… Martie was a good wife, mother, friend, and grandmother. Working more than most being a CNA she also

teacher before transitioning to serving her community through the church, and then later—following months of hauling her camper between Columbus and Colstrip—as a Pharmacy Technician, helping staf the opening of the Colstrip branch of the Montana Family Pharmacy.

Carol loved watching her children, grandchildren, and nieces and nephews play and coach sports; long walks with her dogs multiple times each weekday, more and longer on weekends; going on adventures near and far with her family; quilting; and baking. She loved giving, and routinely did so to her church, her friends, community members, and always—with great joy—spoiled her loved ones anytime she could.

Carol was a constant pillar of love, support, and encouragement throughout her life. Following the death of her husband, Rich, to colon cancer November 1, 2005, she modeled strength, love, and faith in continuing to raise and support her four children,

moved a lot of hearts with her (behind the scenes) volunteer generosity, and still after passing doing just that.

Graveside services were held Saturday, April 13th, 2024 at 3:00 pm at the Corvallis Cemetery. “No crying.”

Condolences may be left for the family at www. dalyleachchapel.com.

building in them a connection that persists to and through this tragedy.

Carol was predeceased by her husband, Rich; maternal grandparents, Everett and Ruby Remillard; paternal grandparents, Mortinus and Florence Anderson; father-in-law, Tex; and many loved aunts and uncles. She is survived by her parents, Rose and Charlie; her mother-in-law, Kay; her children, Rick and his wife Hannah, Jessy, Nathan and his partner Emmy, and Caleb; her grandchildren, Samuel and Simon; as well as her sister, Cathy; brothers, Tom and Chuck; and numerous in-laws, nieces, and nephews.

The family requests that donations be made to Syd’s Wish in lieu of fowers. Those wishing to contribute to Carol’s funeral Mass and celebration of life can donate to the family via GoFundMe. A vigil for Carol will be held Friday, April 26th and Carol’s funeral Mass and celebration of life will take place Saturday, April 27th in Colstrip, MT.

Carol Lewis

Flyfshing

March (Brown) madness in April, and other spring fies

You see the same thing every year: on the Bitterroot, some anglers get so fxated on the skwala hatch that they forget everything else.

Never mind, especially in a year like this one, that the hatch might sputter from day to day. The angler armed with the hot new skwala fy, or a proven old one, for that matter, might fnd himself out of luck. These big brown-olive stonefies bring the big fsh up –when they’re present. And when they’re not, the fsh might still come up for them.

by Chuck Stranahan

It’s no wonder then, on the Bitterroot, that we see what we do every year. Either the big fsh are climbing on those #8 and #10 dries, or it could be sputtery, or nothing.

Skwalas are interesting bugs. They’re not like other stonefies. They nymphs migrate to shore and try to hatch when the waters temperatures warm into the high 40’s. The Catch-22 is that the sun that warms the water also melts the snow that chills and raises the water.

That makes the skwala hatch unpredictable even in the best of weather years. That’s not what we’ve had so far. When the fsh aren’t keyed on skwalas they might be eating something else, if they’re eating at all. Some days they aren’t.

On Rock Creek, the main attraction every spring is the March Brown – a mayfy that can appear during the warm part of any sunny or high-overcast day that isn’t too chilly.

I recently spoke with John at the Rock Creek Mercantile, just down Rock Creek Road from Clinton. He tells me that the March Browns on Rock Creek are just getting of to a good start and should be fully on by

the time this column hits the streets. For an update, call him at 406-8256440.

March Browns are the major spring hatch on Rock Creek. The occur just about everywhere in our area and the well-equipped angler shouldn’t be without them. They’re dark brown in overall appearance as their name suggests and fairly large, as mayfies go. A #12 nymph/wet fy such as a pheasant-bodied soft hackle and #14 brown-bodied Sparkle Dun will get you started.

Sparkle Duns are the invention of Craig Mathews, founder of West Yellowstone’s landmark shop, Blue Ribbon Flies. They can represent any number of mayfies with just a variation in size and color. Their key feature is a translucent fber tail that simulates the shuck of a hatching mayfy.

“March Browns are notorious

shuck-draggers,” Justin Baker once told me. He’s right – fsh that March Brown with just an ever-so-slight jiggle of the rod tip to simulate the struggle of a mayfy trying to escape its nymphal shuck and it might just trigger a strike from a big trout that ignores the dead drift.

Later in the hatch, try a pattern with a slender, segmented body that lays fay on the water. My own favorite here is a takeof on Rene’ Harrop’s Hairwing Dun series of mayfy patterns.

March Browns have several peculiarities. Most mayfies hatch in one color and shed a thin membrane of outer skin before mating, and the females return to the stream to lay their eggs in a diferent color and at a diferent time of day. March Browns, on the other hand, look about the same before and after shedding that outer skin, and the females return to the water while the day’s fresh hatch

is going on. You’ll see both stages –hatching bugs and egg-laying bugs –on the water at the same time.

Another peculiarity of the March Brown is that they’ll hatch – or try to – underwater. They’ll then swim to the surface, break free with a furry of wings on the surface, and then – if they were successful in ridding themselves of that nymphal shuck underneath, fy of and prepare to mate.

My approach to fshing March Brown dry fies is to do this: If I see rises to those struggling shuck-draggers on the surface I’ll start with a March Brown #14 Sparkle Dun, and maybe twitch it a little.

If that doesn’t work, I’ll switch to the slender-bodied Hairwing Dun. If I don’t see many stragglers on the surface I’ll start with that fy. On a day when I’m seeing occasional rises but can’t tell what they’re on, I might start with a double-dry rig, with that March Brown pattern behind a skwala.

The slender body of a Hairwing Dun mimics the March Brown mayfy Photo by Chuck Stranahan.

Climate group supports local Evirothon team

by John Dowd

As Earth day passes, there is an organization in the area that wants to remind people to be mindful of the climate. They hope the community follows the lead of a young group of Hamilton High School students.

According to Peter Reynolds, Chair of the Bitterroot Climate Action Group, the public should keep their eye out for the Hamilton High School Envirothon Team. The team participates in an extracurricular course where they learn to present and critically think on major environmental issues. The team will be giving a mock presentation at the Hamilton High School Library on Thursday, April 18, between 7 and 8:30 p.m. There, they will be given a challenge question regarding alternative energy in the Bitterroot.

According to Reynolds, the team will need to “draw upon their own knowledge,” without the use of the internet, books or resources to discuss, come up with and present an action plan on how they would deal with the issue. The team will be given two hours to come up with their plan addressing a hypothetical scenario designed by the teachers.

dents need to study a lot beforehand to prepare themselves for any challenge question asked. Throughout the year, they have had opportunities to meet with scientists and presenters to learn and prepare for the presentation. This will be a test run of what they will experience during the state competition they will be attending later in the year.

THE MINE

The Evirothon changes the theme every year, and this year it particularly coincides with climate. Because of this, the Bitterroot Climate Action Group organization will be donating to the Hamilton High School Evirothon Team to help them travel to their competition. Reynolds has a lot of faith in the group. According to him, they won state two years ago, and then went on to become national champions. He is extremely impressed with the program. “Hamilton has a strong program,” said Reynolds. He hopes programs like this become more common, not just in the ‘Root, but across the nation.

own lifetime.

According to Reynolds, “75% to 85% of people understand that climate change is an issue that needs to be addressed.” He believes everyone needs to work together to sift through all the misinformation, and to look at the real science behind these concerns. According to him, if we all work together, we can come up with efective answers, but frst the questions need to be understood to see “what the science is really saying,” said Reynolds.

us.”

Reynolds explained that the stu-

For Reynolds, it is important to get “young people thinking about their life and how they would address these concerns.” He believes “these issues are complex,” and that thinking about these things when people are young can help them tackle them in their

For him, an important part of that is encouraging young people interested in science careers to look for solutions. Science education is crucial, as Reynolds stated, “Science makes modern life possible.” He also believes the key is in “systemic thinking,” where all the sides of the issue are considered. He gave the example of water in the Bitterroot valley. Consideration for such a seemingly simple resource can be very complex, including elements like snow and rainfall through the year, the efects on the river, the efects on recreation and hunting, keeping access open while limiting negative impacts from mass tourism, the possible efects of climate change, seasonality and even housing, agriculture and much more. He said fnding these answers involves “all of

Reynolds described the Bitterroot Climate Action Group as a “non-partisan group that strives to create awareness.” The organization started in 2018, and has grown in infuence over the last few years. According to Reynolds, the organization is “just a group of local people concerned with climate change, preparing for it and building resilience to it.” Along with supporting local initiatives like the Hamilton High School Envirothon team, the organization advocates in local and state governments to consider climate in the decisions they make.

They have year-round volunteer opportunities, including an upcoming highway cleanup. The cleanup will take place on May 4, south of Hamilton, on Highway 93. Between 10 a.m. and 12 noon, volunteers will clean up trash along the highway, starting at the Wally Crawford Fishing Access site. Anyone can attend the cleanup and get involved.

For those interested in becoming a member of the group, Reynolds said the best way is through their website, bitterrootcag.org. They can also be found on Facebook and Instagram, where interested parties can track the group’s activities and fnd more ways to volunteer.

The Hamilton High School Evirothon Team in 2022, when they won the national competition. Photo courtesy Hamilton School District 3.

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p.m. Monday through Friday

On Election Day - 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Stevensville Elementary School Gym 300 Park Ave. (behind k-3 building), Stevensville, MT 59870

On Election Day Only-7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. A qualifed registered elector who will be absent from the district during the time the election is being conducted may a) vote in the election administrators ofce as soon as the ballots are available and until noon the day before the ballots are scheduled to be mailed;

b) complete an Application for Absentee Ballot to request a ballot be mailed to an address other than the address that appears on the voter registration card. If you miss this regular registration deadline (30 days prior to the election), you may still late register and receive a ballot at the county election ofce. The county election ofce is located at: 215 S. 4 th Street STE C Hamilton, MT 59840

DATED this 11th day of April, 2024 Shelley O’Leary, District Clerk BS 4-17-24.

NOTICE OF ANNUAL SCHOOL ELECTION 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, and one (1) trustee for a three (3) year term for the Stevensville High School/Lone Rock district. The election will be conducted solely by mail ballot. Ballots will be mailed to all eligible qualifed electors in the District on April 19, 2024, and must be returned by each voter, to the Ravalli County Election Administrator’s Ofce by mail or in person to the Ravalli

moved, please update your registration information by filling out a new voter registration form and submitting it to the Ravalli County Elections Office.

If you are not sure of your current voter registration status, you can check your status online at https://prodvoterportal.mt.gov, or you can call the Elections Office at 375-6550.

Booked for the season

Why are you so nosy?

The answer to that is, well, because there’s so much to know! You can learn a lot of interesting things if you poke your nose where it doesn’t belong. Being snoopy has its advantages: it’s fun, deliciously scandalous, you know all the good gossip frst and, in the new book “The Fixer” by Josh Young and Manfred Westphal, it might just pay the bills.

Fred Otash couldn’t believe his eyes. Hollywood was much more than he’d ever expected. Like most Americans, he’d consumed a heavy diet of movies and movie stars but as a young man just home from World War II, the reality far outdid what he’d imagined. Impressed with what he saw, he applied for a job at the LAPD, where his intelligence and surveillance skills helped him rise through the ranks. Those attributes also helped him gain access to and rub elbows with the rich, famous, and up-and-coming, a proximity that changed his life.

Being a police ofcer in the 1950s, Otash had leeway for ignoring petty behavior so he often “looked the other way” when Hollywood’s brightest “got caught up in minor compromising positions...” He was especially accommodating when doing so might gain a confdante for later use. Otash befriended common people, petty criminals, and stars like Liberace, Milton Berle, James Cagney, John Wayne, and Marilyn Monroe.

Three years after launching his career with the LAPD, a new chief of police was named, a man Otash had had

conficts with, and he knew his tenure was in trouble. By then, Otash had gained a reputation for being “both

tough and discreet,” and also good with the latest in surveillance technology. Hollywood appreciated that, and

they took advantage of Otash’s talents for making bad things go away. Lawyers hired him to catch philandering spouses. Magazine editors hired him to dish the dirt. And he was the frst person called when a beautiful movie star – a woman who was sleeping with the President – died under mysterious circumstances...

If the National Enquirer, a 1950s-era Hollywood scandal rag, and pick-your-favorite-detective-noir-fick moved in together, their apartment would look exactly like “The Fixer.”

With a touch of Sam Spade-like vernacular and lots of behind-thescenes peeks, authors Josh Young and Manfred Westphal share a story that Westphal swears is all true. He says his mother insisted that he meet Otash when Westphal was a young man, and that Otash ofered to show him evidence to back himself up. “I knew in my heart I could trust him,” Westphal says in his introduction, and that included controversial information on Marilyn Monroe.

In the narrative here, Monroe’s platinum head pops up frequently, as if to tease readers who come to “The Fixer” expressly looking for juicy tidbits. As for conspiracy bufs, well, the details may not be anything new but the rest of the scandalous reports will make you be glad you came along for the romp. Hollywood fans, let this be the one if you’re planning a summer with your nose in a book.

Red Cross disaster volunteers help families following fres

Montana Red Cross volunteers have responded to 11 home fres since March frst, helping 27 people with their most immediate needs like food, shelter, clothing and emotional support. Those responses included home fres in Great Falls, Kalispell, Bonner, Missoula, Big Sky, Billings and Box Elder.

So far in 2024, Red Cross responded to nearly 50 fres across the state and provided aid to140 families. During and

after these events, disaster response teams work with a network of partners including fre departments and community groups to connect people with the resources and support they need.

“This lifesaving work wouldn’t be possible without our network of volunteers, who dedicate their time day in and day out,” said Diane Wright, Montana Red Cross executive director. “Now, we’re asking all Montanans to do their part in

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preventing fres by reviewing their home fre escape plans.”

HOME FIRE SAFETY TIPS

Test smoke alarms: Ensure smoke alarms are installed on every level of the home, including the basement and in or near sleeping areas. Test alarms monthly and replace batteries as needed. Replace smoke alarms older than 10 years.

Practice your escape plan: Take time to discuss fre safety

with your household. Familiarize children with the sound of your smoke alarm and teach them what to do when they hear it when you practice your escape plan.

Use space heaters with caution: Place space heaters on a level, hard and nonfammable surface — at least three feet away from things that could burn. And never leave space heaters unattended.

and medical equipment. These services are free and available to all. To seek assistance after a disaster like a home fre, please call 800-RED-CROSS (800733-2767).

BECOME A VOLUNTEER

Avoid matches: Teach your children to tell you or a responsible adult when they fnd matches or lighters at home or school. Keep matches, lighters and other ignitable substances in a secured location out of reach of children.

HELP AVAILABLE

Following a home fre, Red Cross of Montana volunteers help meet families’ most immediate needs, including food, clothing and shelter. Red Cross teams also connect families with mental health support, spiritual care and help replace medications

Red Cross volunteers respond to hundreds of disasters in communities big and small across Montana each year. To learn more about becoming a Red Cross disaster volunteer and providing help and hope in your community, visit redcross.org/volunteer or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-7332767). Training is provided. About the American Red Cross:

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-proft organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, visit redcross.org or facebook. com/redcrossmontana or call 800-RED-CROSS (800-7332767).

His remarkable journey is a testament to his unwavering commitment, resilience, and patriotism.

Giacometto’s military odyssey began in 1956 when he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. Following two years of active duty stationed in Iwakuni, Japan, he transitioned to the inactive reserves, continuing his service until 1962 when he was honorably discharged as a Corporal.

Undeterred by the end of his Marine Corps tenure, Giacometto pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree from Black Hills State University. Armed with his degree, he seized the opportunity to further his military career, joining the Navy in 1966 and enrolling in Ofcer Candidate School (OCS).

Upon graduation from OCS, Giacometto underwent training at supply corps school, preparing him for his subsequent deployments. From 1966 to 1967, he served two tours with a Seabee unit in Vietnam, demonstrating exceptional leadership and dedication in the face of adversity.

Giacometto’s commitment to service didn’t end with his time in the Navy. He remained in the inactive reserve from 1968 to 1975 before

receiving an honorable discharge as a lieutenant in 1975. However, his passion for serving his country endured, leading him to join the South Dakota Army National Guard in 1979.

For over a decade, Giacometto served with distinction in the National Guard until his honorable discharge in 1993, marking a remarkable milestone: three honorable discharges from three separate branches of the military. His enduring dedication, spanning decades and multiple branches, exemplifies the spirit of selfessness and sacrifice that defines the American military ethos.

Refecting on his decades-long journey, Giacometto remarked, “Service to country has been the cornerstone of my life. Each branch of the military provided unique opportunities for growth, camaraderie, and service to something greater than oneself.”

As Giacometto continues his life’s journey beyond the military, his legacy of service remains an inspiration to all who have had the privilege of knowing him. His story serves as a reminder of the profound impact one individual can make in service to their nation.

Public asked to help keep bears wild

As grizzly bears begin to emerge from their dens this spring in search of food, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other wildlife managers are asking for the help of residents and visitors in grizzly country to Keep Bears Wild. The Service reminds the public to remain vigilant and take proactive actions to avoid bear conficts. Male grizzly bears tend to emerge from their dens in March and April, and females with cubs typically appear in April and May.

Residents and visitors in Montana, Wyoming, northeast Washington, and northern and eastern Idaho should be on the lookout for grizzly bears and work to prevent conficts by following the tips below – avoiding a confict is

always easier than dealing with one. Keep Bears Wild – save the life of a bear (or your own):

Store food, garbage, and other attractants with a scent in a bear-resistant place . Carry bear spray in an accessible location and know how to use it . Never run if you encounter a bear; learn how to handle an encounter. Practice ethical wildlife viewing from a distance, stay at least 300 feet away – never approach a bear. Never feed bears; a fed bear is more likely to be a danger to people. Avoid recreating alone, stay on maintained trails, and make noise. Avoid recreating at dusk, dawn, or night. Do not hike, bike, or run with headphones or earbuds. Avoid activities in which you

move quietly and fast in areas of limited visibility, as this increases your potential for surprising a bear.

Leaving attractants unsecured, such as trash, compost, bird, pet or livestock feed, or food, can draw grizzly bears into human-occupied areas and lead to animals becoming food-conditioned. Food-conditioned grizzly bears can substantially threaten human safety, often necessitating management action. The actions, or lack thereof, of residents and visitors, are pivotal in living safely in grizzly bear habitat. To deter bears from frequenting areas in and around residential or other human-occupied areas and becoming conditioned to human-related food, it is essential to:

Secure attractants – anything with an odor, such as compost, trash, dog food, livestock food, bird seed, fruit trees, or beehives

Don’t allow bears to feel comfortable near human-occupied dwellings – there are safe ways to tell a bear to move along by making noise, such as yelling, honking a horn, or banging pots/pans

Report bear sightings, encounters, and conficts immediately to your state or Tribal wildlife management agency.

Residents and visitors are encouraged to explore additional grizzly bear safety information available from the Interagency Grizzly Bear Committee for residents, hikers/campers, hunters, and farmers/ranchers.

Leo Giacometto (seated) and wife Mercie. Also pictured, l to r: Stevensville American Legion Fort Owen Post 94 past commander Jerry Esmay, current commander Garrick Doll, auxiliary member Lisa Giacometto, member and son John Giacometto, past commander Chuck Burgmeier. Photo Courtesy Stevensville American Legion Fort Owen Post 94.