Bitterroot Star - April 28, 2021

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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent

’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B ‘The

Volume XXXVI, Number 41

Another chapter ends

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

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County discusses COVID-19 funding How funding will be distributed still unknown

by Michael Howell County discusses federal COVID-19 funding with Senator Tester’s aide

By Michael Howell

Owners Mara Luther (with daughter Mikaela) and Marisa Neyenhuis with Shawn Wathen at Chapter One Book Store. Photo by Ara Masar.

Wathen retires from bookstore

by Victoria Howell

Twenty-five years ago, Shawn Wathen told Russ Lawrence and Jean Mathews, owners of Chapter One Book Store in Hamilton, that he would work for them at the store for about three months. Twenty-five years later he worked his final day there. On Saturday, which was also National Independent Bookstore Day, Chapter One held a party for Wathen.

Amid a steady stream of wellwishers, Wathen reflected on his

time at the bookstore, which he ended up buying from the previous owners and then selling his share to the current owners, Mara Luther and Marisa Neyenhuis.

“I’m not a salesperson,” said Wathen. “It was never about that. It’s the people I’ve met over the years” that he will miss. “You never knew who would come in. I learned so much about community and what it means – how fundamental it is to a meaningful life.”

And he said it’s good to know that Chapter One will still be here

and will remain so fundamental to the community.

Wathen said he will take some time to figure out what he wants to do next. “I love to cook and bake, I love cycling and getting together with friends.” He said it’s been an emotional roller coaster, with joy at the possibilities for the future and the bittersweetness of leaving.

He said his actual final day was about three weeks ago, and at the end of that day, as he locked the door for the final time, “it was crushing… but I’m proud of the work I’ve done.”

Stevi parks funding approved

by Victoria Howell The Stevensville Town Council approved an appropriation of $50,000 from the Jean Thomas Beautification Fund with $25,000 to go towards improvements at Father Ravalli Park and $25,000 to be donated to the Stevensville splash pad project to help defray the cost of a recirculating water system that the council had requested be part of the project. The splash pad project is being facilitated by the Stevensville Civic Club, with support from Project 59870 in raising the

$145,000 needed for the project. The appropriation was at the recommendation of the Park Board.

The council also approved a claim for $23,000 for the MySidewalk software after some discussion about the cost. Council member Dempsey Vick said he thought the software was too expensive. In public comment on the claim, some members of the public thought that the mayor was overstepping his authority in entering into this agreement for this amount of money. Council member Jaime Devlin pointed out that the mayor has authority to make purchases up to

$25,000 without getting council approval. They both said, “The town doesn’t want it.”

Former council member Bob Michalson said he was “shocked and appalled when I heard the news of the service agreement… You just don’t care about the policies of procedures of the Town…

The $69,000 contract for MySidewalk is something the whole town is very upset about.” Michalson said the money would be better spent in helping to pay off the sewer bond.

The mayor did, however, present the proposal to the council at a previous

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meeting and the council had no objections. Town attorney Scott Owens, who attended the meeting by phone, clarified that approval of the claim constituted council approval and that another claim would have to be presented for each annual fee. The claim was approved on a 3 to 1 vote with council member Dempsey Vick voting no.

The council voted to table an ordinance to rezone a property on Pine Street between Pine and North Avenue from R-1 to R-2 to allow multi-family housing

Deborah Frandsen, Field Representative for Montana Senator Jon Tester, was in Hamilton last week looking for ideas, comments and suggestions from the Ravalli County Commissioners about the recently passed COVID-19 relief bill called the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of 2021 and a potential bill based on President Biden’s $2.3 trillion America Jobs Plan.

The commissioners responded with what Commissioner Greg Chilcott characterized at the end of the meeting as a “shot-gunning” approach that addressed both the bill and the pending bill and a lot more, like the regionalization of state services, food regulations, country of origin labels, the National Environmental Policy Act, and the 2nd Amendment, among other things.

The Commissioners did have a lot of questions about ARPA, signed into law on March 11, 2021. Questions about how it might actually be implemented went unanswered for the most part because the regulations guiding implementation of the legislation are still in the works.

The deadline for adopting the regulations is May 11.

According to Frandsen, the county is looking at $8.5 million in COVID-19 relief funds to mitigate the costs to local government created by the pandemic. In addition to providing nearly $2 trillion of monetary relief nationwide

for individuals and business sectors impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, ARPA contains several important provisions that specifically impact employers. These key features of ARPA include: extension of voluntary paid sick leave and family leave tax credit programs.

Frandsen said that the COVID-19 relief funds could be spent on water and wastewater infrastructure or broadband as well as on direct costs due to COVID-19 impacts. Commissioner Chilcott questioned how using the money on broadband and internet delivery would work.

“That’s a private sector function,” he said, “and if you want to fund NGOs or nonprofits then it should be done directly and not through the local government.”

Commissioner Jeff Burrows asked whether, since it was presented in ARPA as an infrastructure bill, the county could use the money on roads and bridges. He said that he read the ARPA plan and couldn’t find any mention of roads and bridges. He said it was clear in the President’s plan that the infrastructure funds can be spent on infrastructure like roads and bridges, but can’t find it even mentioned in ARPA. Roads and bridges are mentioned almost immediately in the White House’s introduction to the America Jobs Plan. It states: “The United States of America is the wealthiest country in the world, yet we rank 13th when it comes to the overall quality of our infrastructure. After decades of disinvestment, our roads, bridges, and water systems are crumbling. Our electric grid is vulnerable to catastrophic outages. Too many lack access to affordable, high-speed Internet and to quality housing.

The past year has led to job losses and threatened economic See ARPA, page 12

Council approves strategic plan

by Victoria Howell The Stevensville Town Council formally adopted a Strategic Plan at its April 22 meeting. The town has been working on developing a plan for the past couple of years. The document states the goals of the administration and staff and incorporates the council’s input from workshops they have attended.

Previous councils received guidance from the Local Government Center on ways to resolve tension and conflict between the council and the mayor in the past, and at that time it was determined that there was a lack of common vision between the executive and legislative branches. This two-year strategic plan addresses that by including a vision statement for the next two decades.

The vision statement is: “Stevensville is a safe, diverse, resilient, sustainable, and growing town known for its rich

See COUNCIL, page 12

Stevensville Civic Club Thurs., April 29 • 5:30 pm Maddimo Makery - 309 Main St., Stevensville Enjoy some refreshments • Learn about our new projects All are welcome to attend, members strongly encouraged

See PLAN, page 12

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 2

Partnership formed for water quality monitoring on forest The Bitterroot National Forest (BNF) of the U.S. Forest Service, Department of Agriculture, have partnered with the Bitterroot River Protection Association (BRPA) to conduct water quality monitoring on Bitterroot National Forest system lands within the Bitterroot River Basin. The Memorandum of Understanding between the two became effective March 1, 2021.

BRPA in partnership with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality, Bitterroot College, University of Montana and other groups have been conducting ‘Citizen Science’ water quality monitoring on the main stem and some tributaries of the Bitterroot River since 2017. According to the MOU, the volunteer monitoring group wishes to develop long-term monitoring sites on the Forest in an effort to determine a baseline for the quality of water leaving the Wilderness and Forest respectively.

On its part, the Forest Service recognizes that this could benefit the long term monitoring plans on Bitterroot National Forest lands within the Bitterroot River Basin.

“We are very excited to be partnering with the BRPA on this

effort,” said Stevensville District Ranger Steve Brown. “A solid long term monitoring strategy for the Bitterroot watershed will help to better inform our land management decisions and we are very happy to have the help of our local citizen scientists!”

BRPA Executive Director Michael Howell said that the Bitterroot River Health Check water quality monitoring program is actually sponsored by a collective of organizations, businesses, and individuals dedicated to establishing and maintaining a network of water quality monitoring and flow monitoring stations on the Bitterroot River and major tributaries throughout the watershed. The program currently monitors six permanent locations on the main stem of the river and 11 sites on six tributaries to the river on the Sapphire side of the valley.

“We were very pleased to see the interest shown by Bitterroot National Forest officials in our local efforts at forming a network of monitoring sites across the whole Bitterroot River Watershed and, with their partnership, we look forward to extending this network onto the

Welcome to the teenage years, We Love you both !! ~James & Liz Branden

Gemma

Bitterroot Front,” said Howell.

For more information contact: Michael Howell, Executive Director of the Bitterroot

The Bitterroot River Protection Association has signed an MOU with the Bitterroot National Forest aimed at establishing long term water quality monitoring sites on the Bitterroot National Forest. Bitterroot River Health Check volunteers have established six permanent long term water quality monitoring sites on the Bitterroot River and eleven sites on tributaries along the Sapphire Front over the last four years. In cooperation with the Bitterroot National Forest, the organization now plans to extend this network of permanent sampling sites onto major tributaries along the Bitterroot Front. Bitterroot River Health Check volunteers pictured above are receiving training in water sample collection protocols by Montana Department of Environmental Quality specialists.

Pictured at right are Bitterroot River Health Check volunteers collecting samples along the Bitterroot River. Photos courtesy of BRPA.

River Protection Association at bitterrootriverprotection@gmail.com or call (406) 239-4838 Steve Brown, Stevensville District

Ranger, Bitterroot National Forest, USFS at steve.brown2@usda.gov or call (406) 777-5461

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 3

The Linda Massa Youth Home is seeking PARTTIME & FULL-TIME Youth Counselors to work with at-risk youth in the Bitterroot Valley ranging in age from 12-18 years old.

• Uplifting & Active Work Environment • Health Insurance • Sick Leave • Generous Paid Vacation Samantha O’Byrne, director of the O’Hara Commons & Sustainability Center in Hamiilton, has seen tremendous success with an innovative online local foods market that sprang out of the pandemic. Photo by Victoria Howell.

• 401k

O’Hara Commons & Sustainability Center making a difference

by Victoria Howell People always used to ask Samantha O’Byrne, director of the O’Hara Commons & Sustainability Center in Hamilton, what the center did. Now in its sixth year, the answer to that question has become pretty clear.

Over the last four years, the non-profit center has been providing about 300 classes per year for children and adults, as well as a Wednesday afternoon farmers market.

Classes include summer youth programs, adult learning series, and programs for young children. There’s also the in-person farmers market which opens this year on June 3.

O’Byrne said it has become so popular that a line forms around the edge of the property in anticipation of the 4 p.m. opening.

“Any connection to food helps build resiliency and a connection to food systems,” says O’Byrne.

During COVID-19 their classes went to online only. But what really changed was that they partnered with several other groups and started an online local foods market and that has really taken off. The market is designed so that people can order online and then on distribution day they can drive through and pick up their orders. There are currently 28 vendors and 400 customers with about 65 orders filled per week.

Along with O’Hara Commons, the project was supported by Cobey Williamson, owner of bitterrootvalley.org, Ravalli County Economic Development Authority and CARES Act funding. The market promotes a “sustainable, circular economy.”

Vendors are local and regional. Offerings include mushrooms, honey, dairy, eggs, meat, produce, baked goods, coffee, ferments, valueadded herbal products, some ready meals, and plants. They also offer a “scratch & dent” category of imperfect produce at a reduced price. Organic growing methods are preferred.

O’Byrne says they now have a nursery license so they can offer plant starts like rhubarb and asparagus and even dahlias from Kangaroo Gardens.

“We’re so unconventional,” said O’Byrne.

“Numbers of stuff is not a factor. We can sell one item or odds and ends just as easily as larger amounts.”

People can shop from their favorite vendors. Some of those might include bread from Oddfellows Bakery out of Salmon, Idaho, chicken from Living River Farms in Stevensville, cheese and meat from Lifeline Dairy in Victor, eggs from Buck and Dave’s in Corvallis, or coffee from Zaxan’s Coffee Roasters of Hamilton.

“We have an incredibly strong SNAP (Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program) participation,” says O’Byrne and they now offer a “double SNAP dollar match” which gets a

SNAP participant an additional $20 worth of items for every $25 spent.

O’Byrne said they have begun collaborating with the Bitterroot Climate Action Group in transitioning to sustainable packaging. They are creating starter kids for their clients, with a reusable bag and a variety of sustainable packaging options. They are looking for feedback from their customers as well. Do they prefer a one-time use compostable container or a reusable container?

“This is a process,” said O’Byrne. “It will take time. We need to understand the true issues around plastic. We’ll always have it but we can get it out of our food chain.”

The O’Hara Commons is located at 111 S. 4th Street in Hamilton, in a house built in 1896. The property was made available to O’Byrne by a generous benefactor, Andreas Herrmann, who shares a vision with O’Byrne to have a community center. The outdoor space contains demonstration areas such as an edible landscape, a pollinator garden, composting and backyard chickens. O’Hara Commons will be on the Secret Garden Tour this year representing the edible landscape. “Every single annual planted this year will be edible,” said O’Byrne.

“The vegetable garden will be a children’s kitchen garden.”

O’Byrne said the online market is set to run through at least March of 2022 or longer. She said the Hamilton Farmers Market and the Wednesday Market will have an effect on it, but Wednesday Market vendors will be able to sell online as well. “We’re here to stay,” she said.

“People are used to the online market and they like it.”

She said the next layer for the online market is to get a refrigerated truck, which will enable them to pick up local products, lowering the carbon footprint. “Then we want to add delivery to individuals,” said O’Byrne. She is currently looking for funding for a truck.

She said she has an “incredible volunteer base” of 10 dedicated people who greet customers, pack boxes, and run food out to the cars. They also have a gleaning program. They will harvest fruits and vegetables of anyone who is unable to harvest their own. They can also process the produce in O’Hara’s certified kitchen. Last year they harvested 3200 pounds of honeycrisp apples, giving the fruit to anyone who wanted it as well as making cider. They gave the cider pressings to a local farmer for his livestock.

O’Byrne can hardly contain her enthusiasm for these programs that she believes are geared toward “empowering a resilient community,” the motto of the O’Hara Commons & Sustainability Center.

“Nobody asks us what we do anymore,” she says with a smile.

Find out more at https://www. theoharacommons.org

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Bitterroot Star -- Page 4

Opinion Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Letters Wake up, people!

Recent national activities have motivated me to generate another letter. This time I would like to primarily discuss police activities and the southern border catastrophe.

Once again, we see riots occurring in Minnesota and other cities over perceived police brutality toward blacks. This seems to be generated as a result of a young black man being shot while he is struggling and resisting arrest after a traffic stop and the discovery that he had a felonylevel warrant active for his arrest.

Body camera footage was released almost immediately showing this individual engaged in an obvious attempt to, yes, get away from the arresting officers as they are trying to place handcuffs on him. A female officer hollers “Taser” and then draws and fires her service weapon. The individual at this point successfully gets back in his car and speeds away only to crash soon after where he is deemed deceased. While the officer contends, she “accidentally” drew and fired her service weapon instead of her Taser, the news media and politicians from local to national immediately start pointing to this being another case of black men being executed by the police. There seemed to be no attempt to provide this officer with confidentiality until a full investigation occurred. Her name was immediately released along with the body camera video. The mayor of the city where the incident occurred suggested this might be racially motivated as did the governor of Minnesota. Within hours she felt forced to resign and then was later charged with a crime.

Let’s compare the above incident to an incident that occurred during the January 6th riot at the United States Capital. Many readers will remember seeing a video of a woman being shot inside the Capital by a police officer. That woman, Ashli Babbitt, was trying to crawl through a broken window while police officers were trying to keep the rioters from entering. She was shot point-blank and died before medical help could be rendered. She was white, unarmed and a veteran.

I believe it was the same day that the first incident above occurred that a press release from the Capital police stated that the officer involved in the second incident would not only remain anonymous but would not be charged as a result of the shooting.

Also of note is that no “official” video was released. What had been circulating was video taken on a cell phone by another person present at the scene. Obviously, the officer involved in this second shooting was given confidentially until a full investigation had taken place. Some of us comparing both incidents are more troubled by lack of perceived accountability for the second case than we are for the first.

Oh, and did you hear the intelligent speech Democratic Representative Maxine Waters gave this past week in Minnesota. She took part in another protest and stated, “We’ve got to stay in the street and we’ve got to get more confrontational”, referencing a scenario where Chauvin is not

that government is the problem.

What was he and what are they but an aspiring aristocracy that wants to stay in power (over you and me) by whatever subterfuges offer themselves -- just now most notably by falsifying facts and encouraging voter suppression.

And you’re okay with that? You’d rather be a vassal or a serf than what your ancestors came to this country for? I just don’t get it.

Mary Fahnestock-Thomas Hamilton

Montana’s clean energy future

convicted. “We’ve got to make sure that they know that we main business.” This sounds like inciting a riot to this old cowboy. However, Speaker Nancy Pelosi said that she did not believe Waters needed to apologize for her comments.

Additionally, President Biden was shown “praying” for the right verdict, and then publicly praising the verdict when it was announced. Most troubling to me was his comment that we must continue to fight this “systemic racism.” The racism I see being spread is by the Democrats against us white conservatives who still think this is the greatest country on earth.

On to the southern border. If you have taken the time to thoroughly investigate what’s going on down there, you should be in agreement that what we have is much worse than a “crisis” but more accurately described as a “catastrophe”. The democrats don’t want you to see or even hear about what is happening, thus the situation continues to be down-played in the main stream media. However, it is clear that illegal immigrants continue to flood in to our country perceiving that uncle Biden has invited them to come. Existing holding facilities have been completely flooded with some being forced to accommodate up to 1,000% more individuals than they were designed for. New facilities are being constructed as fast as possible and illegals are being released with very minimal to no processing.

How anyone can view this scenario as acceptable is beyond my comprehension. Most interesting to me is that the President and the Vice President have refuse to visit to see for themselves. Hello! I personally heard the President charge the Vice President to take charge over 29 days ago.

As I thought about what’s happening here, I read an article suggesting this was comparable to back when Rome was burning.

Remember hearing, “Nero fiddled while Rome burned”? The imbedded meaning here is that the ruler was completely inept when faced with a major crisis. Pretty comparable, I think. Oh, one final thought here, I just heard that the Governor of Arizona has just called out the Arizona National Guard to deal with this problem in that state. Huh???

Once again, I ask people to WAKE UP! Jerry Esmay Stevensville

Aristocracy or democracy?

I simply do not understand why so many people (esp. Republicans?) are so eager to trust rich people instead of the representative government that we, by definition, elect to support us as we go about our lives -- and there are a whole lot more of us non-rich people, so surely we should be in charge here.

The whole reason people left their homes in Europe to come to the New World was to get away from aristocratic governments, that is, from ruling dynasties based on heritage and wealth. Consider, for example, that the Peace of Augsburg, in 1555, decided that whoever ruled a particular part of the Holy Roman Empire got to decide the religion of his realm (“Cuius regio, eius religio”).

That was the way the Old World worked.

So as explorers expanded knowledge of the world, and trade and modes of transportation began to develop, a lot of people began to think about going to one of those

newly discovered places to see what they could make of themselves on their own. That was the great attraction of the New World.

In 1835 Alexis de Toqueville, a young Frenchman, published a voluminous and still definitive work called “Democracy in America,” based on his extensive travels here.

The thing he keeps coming back to is how different a country is where there is no aristocracy to dictate how things should be and no one is better than anyone else, regardless of name or wealth. He found it very interesting and also pretty confusing.

So why have so many of us decided that rich people know best? And thus created our own home-grown aristocracy?

The whole point in this country is supposed to be government “of the people, by the people, and for the people” (Abraham Lincoln, The Gettysburg Address, 1863).

Not just rich folks, who, after all, tend to be focused on their wealth, not on the rest of us. We ordinary people ostensibly wanted to elect a government that would have our interests at heart, because if it didn’t we could change it by electing different, more trustworthy people to represent us.

Is that no longer what we want?

Do some of us really think the newly elected rich folks in Helena care about our everyday challenges?

Since they are not subject to those same challenges, how can they have any real idea? Aren’t they primarily interested in using their new powers to ensure that they never lose power?

So they can continue to build their own private empires?

Richard Nixon clearly had little respect for democratic government if it didn’t do what he wanted. Ronald Reagan and his entourage in 1980 and ever since have maintained

We, the four authors of this piece, range in age from 14 to 17. As young people engaged in local politics and initiatives, we watch in concern the actions of our state legislature. As we are unable to vote, we must take any opportunity we can to make our voices heard.

Even now, there are a number of bills progressing through Montana’s Congress that are harmful to our state’s economy, our citizens’ safety, and your family’s well-being. One of these harmful pieces of legislation is Senate Bill 379, which is intended to keep Colstrip, Montana’s coal-fired electrical plant, running.

Not only would SB-379 damage Montana’s environment by releasing greenhouse gases, it would also be damaging to Montana’s economy.

This bill gives substantial control of the mine to NorthWestern Energy, removing the oversight of our Public Service Commission. The bill’s $1 billion price tag would be shouldered

by Montana NorthWestern Energy ratepayers costing an additional $700 per year per customer.

Some may feel that this bill will help Montana’s economy as NorthWestern Energy will be able to employ more people and sell more energy. However, coal’s price will only keep escalating, and solar technology is only increasing in availability. If this bill fails to pass, the Colstrip mine is expected to shut down within 4 years, seeing an end to this unsustainable mining. On the other hand, if Senate Bill 379 were to pass, the mine would remain open for the foreseeable future.

Overall, this bill will be extremely harmful to the environment, solely help NorthWestern Energy, and hurt Montana’s economy. We implore you to lobby your representatives to vote no on Senate Bill 379. You don’t have to be an expert to understand what is occurring. If we prioritize Montana’s clean energy future, vote no on SB-379, and support our future generations, change will follow.

Aviv Guscio, Ellis WalkerKeleher, Grace Gibson-Snyder and Virgil Jones Missoula

Deep breath, close eyes, vote!

Isn’t that about how most of us prepare for a School Board election?

That is if we vote at all. Please don’t be offended if these opening continued on next page

Bitterroot Star staff Jesse Mullen is the Publisher

Victoria Howell is the Editor: editor@ bitterrootstar.com

Liz Cook is regional advertising director: liz@bitterrootstar.com

James Pickford sells advertising: james@bitterrootstar.com

Christina Bledsoe designs advertising: design@sspmt.com

Matt Johnson

bills our customers: mgr@sspmt.com

Information about your Bitterroot Star Bitterroot Star promise We strive to cover all the news and entertainment important to the people of the Bitterroot Valley. Our entire staff takes part in deciding what appears in these pages and all content is locally generated. If you have a story idea or want some event publicized contact any of the people you see here. Call us 406-777-3928.

Printing information The Bitterroot Star is published every Wednesday by Bitterroot Star Newspaper, Co.. Periodicals postage paid at the United States Post Office in Stevensville, MT 59870. The SSP’s advertising and editorial content deadlines are Fridays at 5 p.m.

Our View/Letters Star editorials frequently appear at the top of this page and are written from the position of the newspaper, usually with the influence of several people, and in the hope that they will carry the weight of our decades of leadership. The personal columns and letters appearing elsewhere on this page, and others, represent the opinions of single individuals and do not necessarily reflect the position of the newspaper.

The Star welcomes and encourages your letter to the editor. Letters on local topics or issues are given priority for publication; letters should be 600 words or less and may be edited. Shorter letters generally have a better chance of prompt publication. While letters expressing appreciation for a specific, out-of-the-ordinary action are welcomed, letters with lists of names of contributors, donors or volunteers are not accepted as letters to the editor. A signature, address and telephone number (for verification, not publication) are required. We will not publish letters that are libelous or scurrilous in nature. Letters of thanks are offered at a reduced price in our display ads.

Member 2016 Member 2021

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Letters

continued

words hit home. You are among many friends and neighbors that would fall on their proverbial sword to cast a ballot at a general election. Yet, somehow the school board seems less important. Actually, school trustees play a vital role in every community.

Their decisions affect us whether young or old, man or woman, husband or wife, or whatever. They are a major facet in the education and eventual success or failure of our youth.

Board member candidates are volunteers. They are offering to serve. Their rewards , if any, will most likely be in the form of criticism. If they are to be effective they must have some philosophy with which they view this confusing world. They may even have an agenda! What a shame that to have an agenda is now viewed as negative. Anyone worth a damn has some kind of agenda, goals, issues of value to them. Call it what you will; but shouldn’t the voter have some idea what their philosophy is? For example, do we really want to elect a truly far left or far right zealot to our local school board? School board elections are non partisan; but, shouldn’t all candidates publicly face voter questions at sometime during the election cycle? Just remember we all pay taxes for our school whether we have a youngster in school or not. I know from personal experience that In general elections the Justice of Peace candidates need to be prepared for questions. A well-managed forum at which questions are encouraged can be quite an experience. God help the candidate that has not done a serious effort at self examination.

How do you and I gain knowledge about school board candidates? Maybe they make a general statement in the Bitterroot Star or Ravalli Republic. That’s a fine worthwhile service by the media but it doesn’t fill the bill.

Maybe the school sends information home to the parents. Also not adequate. It’s too late this time around; but, I suggest and hope some of you will help me insist that school board forums become an anticipated, accepted routine in future elections. These gatherings should be sponsored by worthy community organizations such as Kiwanis, Masons, Knights of Columbus, American legion, Lions and ideally with two or more of them cooperating as sponsors. I’m a legionnaire and intend to be a hard advocate in the Legion.

Attendance is the goal so that information is gained and put to use in advocacy. The school may or may not want such a program. Does it matter? We pay the bills and the community has every right to insist. Never forget that the school board’s ultimate responsibility is not to the State or the Federal authorities; but, to you and me as a community. That statement simply means we should seek and support the

candidates that not only possess wisdom but also some plain old guts!

Ed Sperry Col USAF (ret) Stevensville

Time to vote

It is time to vote in the important election for School Board Trustees. Return your ballot to the Ravalli County Election Administrator not later than 4 May. Unfortunately, there is much consternation within the education sector and among parents, students and citizens over the current state of public education. We, as residents of our respective school districts, need to elect Trustees who reflect our values; reflect our goals for the education of our children; have the experience and motivation to address and solve the issues that confront our schools; and who will faithfully represent the interests of students, local voters, and parents.

Three general and interrelated areas encompass many of the problems facing public education. First is the decrease in measurable performance by US students as compared to their peers around the world. Second is curricula in which students are taught “what to think rather than how to think.” This is compounded by curricula focused on topics of questionable value at the expense of essential fundamental skills. Third is a lack of responsiveness to parents and students that has generated much resentment.

With respect to student performance, the record is getting worse. According to the Wall Street Journal, in the 2018 International Student Assessment, US student scores were behind those of the number 1 country (China) by 9%, in reading, by 19% in math, and by 15% in Science.

With respect to the curriculum, concern exists with the procedures of Common-Core based teaching especially in math. Students with minimum retention and lacking an understanding of fundamentals makes them frustrated and dislike school. Lack of unbiased instruction in the founding ideals of this country and its history of accomplishment while advocating socialist forms of government is exacerbated by the Cancel-Culture epidemic.

This has produced a generation of Americans who believe they will be better off living in a “socialist or communist country” rather than a free-market capitalist one like the United States. We suggest readers investigate Dr. Carson’s 1776 Action, or the Prager University PREP initiative and contrast them to the NY Times 1619 project. Montana children lack adequate instruction in civics and the history of

Bitterroot Star -- Page 5

Protecting the most vulnerable – the unborn

Capable Unborn Child Protection Act. The bill This legislative session has been as unique prohibits abortion after 20-weeks unless the as I can remember—from overcoming the procedure is necessary to save the life of the challenges of the pandemic on a daily basis to holding the most accessible session in Montana mother. At 20-weeks, a child’s nervous system is near full development, and many history—there’s no doubt that this doctors believe the unborn child can session has been different from feel pain. Some children born at 22 others. and 23 weeks have survived infancy.

But the most notable difference If a child can feel pain, they must be has been the opportunity to protected, and that’s what this bill serve under unified Republican accomplishes. leadership. With Republican House Bill 140 requires anyone control of the House, Senate, and performing an abortion to allow the Governor’s office, we finally had mother to review an ultrasound and the chance to deliver conservative Senator listen to the fetal heartbeat. This priorities after 16 long years on a legislation offers expectant mothers wide variety of issues – and we’ve the choice to view an ultrasound of delivered. One of the areas that the child in utero. The ultrasound is we’ve excelled in is protecting the optional, but the medical professional unborn. must make the offer.

Our caucus has passed numerous bills that House Bill 171 will put an FDA-approved defend the sanctity of life and protect the most regulation preventing abortifacients from being vulnerable among us, unborn children, and delivered to women via the mail or prescribed with Montana’s first pro-life governor in 16 via telehealth appointment into law. The bill years, these efforts have not gone to waste like also requires patients to be provided with in previous sessions. information about the potential adverse effects In January, Governor Greg Gianforte, in and complications of chemical abortions to help his State of the State Address, pledged to sign patients be fully informed before making such a the Montana Pain-Capable Unborn Child momentous decision.

Protection Act and the Born-Alive Infant Together, our caucus’ pro-life package bills Protection Act, marking two major pro-life will save lives and ensure expecting mothers milestones for our state. This set the pace for can make fully informed decisions during the 67th Legislature in fulfilling the critical critical moments in their lives. Thankfully, now mission of always defending the unborn and we have a governor who shares our mission of proudly standing up for life. passionately protecting the unborn and is ready The Born-Alive Infant Protection Act is to make the bills we passed law. I was proud to already law. And within the coming days, the support each of these bills, and for as long as I governor is ready to sign three more of our serve Montanans in the legislature, I will always priority pro-life bills into law.

House Bill 136, referenced above, is the Pain- proudly stand for life.

Jason Ellsworth

the United States.

With respect to parent and student dissatisfaction, many are leaving public education for private, charter or home schooling. The loss of students worsens school budget issues and many of the other challenges facing the school system. The dissatisfaction is exacerbated by COVID, even in Bitterroot schools that have been open for in-person education during most of the current school year. Some students attending inperson classes are experiencing learning and

psychological issues. Students and parents need help to overcome the negative impacts of remote teaching even when the student is in a classroom.

We urge you to vote for effective, responsive, and committed School Trustees to represent you and your children in the local school districts. Vote like you and your student’s futures depend on it. They do.

Marc & Helen. Sabin Corvallis

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 6

County approves grant Safe & Convenient! application for bike path

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Last Thursday April 22, the Ravalli County Commissioners authorized Bike Walk Bitterroot to make a grant application on their behalf to build an off-road bicycle and pedestrian path along the south side of Golf Course Road. The paved pathway would extend from Highway 93 to the end of Tammany Street at Carriage Road.

Kyle Barber, a board member of Bike Walk Bitterroot, a local volunteer organization that works on making the Bitterroot a safe community for people to bike and walk in, told the Commissioners that the grant application to Montana Department of Transportation’s Transportation Alternative grant program was designed to address one of the biggest safety issues in the area. He said that the death of Robert Leonardi who was killed along the road in a hit and run incident in 2009 testifies to the need for improvements. He said the family was still reeling from it.

“We want to address this issue in a meaningful way,” said Barber. He said that Leonardi’s initials had been incorporated into the name of the path to honor his memory. It’s called the RaiL-Trail path.

Barber said that he worked with Hamilton’s Public Works Director Donny Ramer, Road and Bridge Department Administrator John Horat, a private engineer from HDR Engineering Dan Harmon, as well as with residents in the area, before arriving at this vision of the path.

The concept was brought before the commissioners back in February and the matter was left open with four questions the commissioners needed answers to: the root feasibility of the project, the project budget, plans to address long term maintenance, and a plan for landowner and community outreach.

Barber said that he visited with the city’s Park Board, the Road and Bridge Department and neighbors to the project and they all had pretty much the same questions.

He came prepared to answer all the questions and did. He said the first question was, is the path really possible to install along the roadside? And if it is, which side of the road should it be placed on?

It was determined that a path from 8 to 10 feet wide could be installed with a three-

foot buffer distance from the road. When the inspection started out, more than a few people thought that the path would go on the north side, but after considering all the details, such as number of driveways and entrances on each side, the number and location of telephone poles, encroachments, and other issues, it was decided that the south side of the road was actually the best choice.

The total budget for the project is estimated at $750,000. The Transportation Alternative grant would cover 86.58% of the cost. The remaining 13.42%, or about $100,000, would have to be met by a local funding match.

Barber told the commissioners that Bike Walk Bitterroot was willing to take on the lion’s share of the work needed to process this grant and implement the project. He said they had already raised $30,000, about 30% of the match requirement with funds from Bike Walk Bitterroot, Robert Leonardi Memorial Fund, and the Rapp Family Foundation. He was asking the commissioners to chip in $20,000 in county funding. He said that Bike Walk had a good plan for raising the remaining $50,000 for the match. He said public support for the project has been tremendous. The commissioners received 139 letters of support from the public for the project and, in a rarity, received no public comment against it.

Although Barber expressed confidence in being able to raise the remaining $50,000, he told the commissioners that he did not want to leave them hanging. In order to reduce any risk to the county, he proposed that they create a Memorandum of Understanding between the county and Bike Walk Bitterroot that the organization would be responsible for establishing a maintenance fund and program.

He said snow plowing, sweeping, and other jobs could be contracted out and done using the many volunteers that they know are willing to help. The fund would be held by the county and managed by the county and the MOU would guide Bike Walk in how the funds are used. Bike Walk would do all the administrative work involved and help out with engaging the contractors.

Authorization of the grant application, approval of the $20,000 contribution and the MOU with Bike Walk were approved unanimously by the Commissioners.

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RISING NEO-TRADITIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC SENSATION CHANCEY WILLIAMS TO HEADLINE THE PHILIPSBURG, MONTANA ROTARY CLUB’S 11TH ANNUAL SUMMER CHARITY CONCERT & AUCTION, SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 2021 Nashville, Tenn. -- The Philipsburg, Montana Rotary Club is proud to announce the lineup for the 11th Annual Summer Charity Concert & Auction. Rising neo-traditional country music sensation Chancey Williams is set to headline the event, following performances by Missoula-based band Shodown and modern outlaw country group Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts at the Philipsburg Outdoor Amphitheater at Winninghoff Park in Phillipsburg, Montana on Saturday, August 21, 2021.

Tickets are now available for purchase at philipsburgconcert.com. with proceeds from the Concert Auction benefiting the Property Expansion for the Flint Creek Childcare to become a Full-Service DayCare Center. The event will kick off with gates with opening at 11:00 a.m. and a local band starting at noon in the beer garden. One-of-a-kind items will be auctioned off during intermissions, which will be posted on the website ahead of time.

Country music’s authentic cowboy Chancey Williams will perform songs off his new album, 3rd Street, which debuted at no. 5 on iTunes Country Albums Chart when it released on May 22nd and features Rocky Mountain CMA Song of the Year, “Wyoming Wind” and Rocky Mountain CMA Musician of the Year fiddle player Brooke Latka. Produced by country music hitmaker Trent Willmon, the 13-track full-length album is sure to resonate with country music fans of all ages from the reminiscent throwback tune “College,” to upbeat anthems like “The World Needs More Cowboys” and “Fastest Gun in Town” to raw, stripped-down ballads like “Let It Go” and “Wyoming Wind.” Gritty two-stepping tracks “Outlaws” and “One More For the Road” are sure to get boots spinning out on the dance floor this summer. Purchase 3rd Street on iTunes or stream on Spotify.

Who: Chancey Williams, Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts and Shodown What: The Philipsburg, Montana Rotary Club’s 11th Annual Summer Charity Concert & Auction

Liquor • Beer • Craft Beer • Cigars • Mixers Ice • Gifts Ideas • E-Cigs & Flavors 501 S.1st Street Hamilton (406) 363-3751

When: Saturday, August 21, 2021; Gates open at 11am Where: Philipsburg Outdoor Amphitheater at Winninghoff Tickets: $35 in advance and $45 at the gate; Tickets will be on sale soon at philipsburgconcert.com ***All Admission and Auction items proceeds benefits the Philipsburg Rotary Club area charities! ***

Modern Outlaw Country group Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts are based out Denver, Colorado. Ryan was born and raised in Philipsburg. Praised for their songwriting and known for their love of old country and blazing guitars, they bring forth new energy to music fans who love the heroes and outlaws like the legends of Waylon and Willie. The group has shared the stage with Dwight Yoakam, Shooter Jennings, Blackberry Smoke, The Marshal Tucker Band and more.

Missoula-based band Shodown’s diverse play list blends bluegrass, western swing, traditional modern country and 70/80’s/90’s rock and roll. Shodown brings an entertaining and high energy performance to their family-friendly show.

Follow Chancey Williams on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter ***PLEASE CONTACT HEATHER@LONESTARPR.COM TO SCHEDULE INTERVIEWS FOR PRE-COVERAGE OR ON-SITE COVERAGE FOR CHANCEY WILLIAMS! *** About Chancey Williams: Saddle bronc rider turned country singer-songwriter, Chancey Williams has gone from competing on horseback to performing on center stage at major rodeos. The only artist besides Chris LeDoux to both ride and perform on stage at the world’s largest outdoor rodeo, known as “The Daddy of ‘Em All,” Cheyenne Frontier Days, Williams is the next authentic cowboy of country music. Growing up on a ranch in the Cowboy State (Wyoming), Williams learned the cowboy-way-of-life from his father, and like his dad, Williams found himself a successful bronc rider, qualifying for the National High School Rodeo Finals, twice at the College National Finals and winning two rounds at Cheyenne Frontier Days. In May 2017, Chancey Williams and the Younger Brothers Band released their album, Rodeo Cold Beer, which debuted at #7 on iTunes Country Albums Chart and earned the #1 spot on Billboard’s Heatseekers Mountain Chart.

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Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Chuck Stranahan’s

Bitterroot Star -- Page 7

Flyfishing Journal

Wade sneaky, wade safe My friend Doug Brutocao has fished all over the world, from places like the Kenai Peninsula in Alaska to New Zealand’s South Island. Much of that experience involved stalking a single fish or a likely lie, honing in on it, and making repeated casts.

When we last fished together on the Bitterroot I watched the culmination of those experiences operate at an instinctive level in Doug.

We walked a gravel bar, deciding who would fish where and how, both of us being careful not to kick or crunch the gravel under our feet more than we had to.

I chose a drop-off below the main current on my side of the river. There had to be some big trout there, hiding under the foam line, waiting for a sculpin – hopefully mine - to wash down from the shallow riffle above.

nearing the smooth surface of the water at the top of the eddy where its current was flowing opposite of the flow of the main river. Coming from below, it’s as if he were approaching those fish from upstream.

Chuck

The stealthy approach He stopped well short of where he could be seen by the feeding fish, took off his shoulder pack and laid it on the gravel bar, squatted beside it and retipped his leader and tied on a fly. He remained in that crouched position and crept forward, his silhouette below the horizon line of the bank, for another forty feet. He was now in position to cast.

He kept his rod parallel to the water and kept his false casts to a minimum. He fed line downstream, pulled it aside carefully before casting again at the end of each drift. He caught a couple of trout.

The first was an chunky fish that put the others down for a few minutes. Doug waited for them to resume feeding and then hooked a fish that put the others down for good.

When we met up again he told me that the larger trout was a nineteeninch rainbow that must have eaten a lot of blue-winged olives. That burly rainbow fought with all his weight against his small fly and fine leader.

Stranahan

Take time to watch Doug, meanwhile, watched some trout rising in the foam line of a big back-eddy on the opposite side of the river. He continued to walk downstream and I didn’t see him again for about ten minutes.

He found a place where the river spread out to form a slow-moving shallow lip of a pool, crossed there, and then headed up the opposite bank.

As I watched his approach I saw why Doug decided to take the time to cross the river and approach those fish. Some of them were good-sized, and they were feeding almost lazily on the blue-winged olive mayflies that were circulating in the foam loop at the center the eddy.

The sun angle caused his shadow to fall long across the water. He was

Doug said when I asked what he was using. He showed me a fly that was close in color and maybe a bit too large.

Sometimes, with blue-winged olives, you have to dial the fly choice right in.

The most important thing, though, is presentation: get the cast in without spooking the fish, and get it off the water without spooking the fish.

He could have stood on that bank, in full view of the fish, and flailed

Get the cast in “I got close enough with this,”

The Bitterroot Star is your only LOCAL newspaper!

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away with the “right” fly and not caught a thing. Or he could have spent his time changing flies instead of stalking his fish. Instead, what he did paid off.

Wade safe We were both geared up that day with full chest-high waders, cinched at the middle with wading belts, and high quality wading boots. We both know the importance of being geared up for safety, even though we didn’t wade, that day, more than knee-deep.

If you like the progress of Lone Rock Park, vote for

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Or, you can pick it up for free at 100+ locations throughout the valley.

For more information contact our office at 777-3928.

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Wednesday

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Saturday

Sunday

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Partly Cloudy

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Cloudy

66 / 40

74 / 45

76 / 44

57 / 39

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55 / 39

Local UV Index

Detailed Local Forecast

0-2: Low, 3-5: Moderate, 6-7: High, 8-10: Very High, 11+: Extreme Exposure

Weather Trivia

Peak Fishing/Hunting Times This Week

What is wind shear?

?

Day Wed Thu Fri Sat

Answer: When the wind's speed or direction changes sharply.

Weather History April 28, 1921 - A severe hailstorm in Anson County, N.C. produced hail the size of baseballs. Gardens, grain fields and trees were destroyed. Some pine trees in the storm's path had to be cut for lumber because of the hail damage.

April 29, 1988 - Thunderstorms produced large hail and high winds in central Texas. Hail the size of baseballs were reported at Nixon and wind gusts to 70 mph were reported at Cotulla. Heavy rain in Maine caused flooding along the Pemigewassett and Ammonoosuc Rivers.

Peak Times AM PM 1:44-3:44 2:14-4:14 2:45-4:45 3:16-5:16 3:47-5:47 4:18-6:18 4:49-6:49 5:20-7:20

Day Sun Mon Tue

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Today we will see partly cloudy skies, high of 66°, humidity of 28%. West southwest wind 3 to 8 mph. The record high for today is 87° set in 1987. Expect mostly cloudy skies tonight, overnight low of 40°. Southwest wind 7 mph. The wind chill for tonight could reach 37°. The record low for tonight is 20° set in 1955. Thursday, skies will be mostly cloudy, high of 74°, humidity of 32%. Southwest wind 7 mph. Thursday night, skies will be mostly cloudy, overnight low of 45°.

0 - 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11+

$

from

As the rivers continue to rise the best water to fish will be along the edges of the fast water – water moving at about two feet per second.

You don’t need to wade more than knee-deep to fish this stuff. And at that, when you step in, look downstream. One greasy rock can send you tumbling. You don’t want to tumble into fast water or a hazard you can’t escape.

My best all-time safe wading advice is this: Be chicken. Chickens don’t drown.

Peak Times AM PM 5:49-7:49 6:18-8:18 6:45-8:45 7:11-9:11 7:37-9:37 8:01-10:01

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Call us today!

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Serving the Bitterroot Valley in the areas of tax law, business and estate planning, and real estate property law.

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Sun/Moon Chart This Week Day Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue

Last 5/3

New 5/11

Sunrise 6:25 a.m.

6:23 a.m.

6:22 a.m.

6:20 a.m.

6:18 a.m.

6:17 a.m.

6:15 a.m.

Sunset 8:43 p.m.

8:44 p.m.

8:45 p.m.

8:47 p.m.

8:48 p.m.

8:49 p.m.

8:51 p.m.

Moonrise Moonset 11:14 p.m. 7:29 a.m.

Prev Day 8:08 a.m.

12:34 a.m. 8:56 a.m.

1:43 a.m. 9:55 a.m.

2:39 a.m. 11:03 a.m.

3:22 a.m. 12:15 p.m.

3:55 a.m. 1:27 p.m.

First 5/19

Full 5/26

Last Week's Almanac & Growing Degree Days Date 4/19 4/20 4/21 4/22 4/23 4/24 4/25

High 46 52 63 48 53 53 55

Low 31 24 24 34 35 37 38

Normals 59/33 60/33 60/33 60/34 60/34 61/34 61/34

Precip 0.06" 0.00" 0.00" 0.15" 0.00" 0.04" 0.09"

Farmer's Growing Degree Days Date Degree Days Date Degree Days 4/19 0 4/23 0 4/20 0 4/24 0 4/21 0 4/25 0 4/22 0 Growing degree days are calculated by taking the average temperature for the day and subtracting the base temperature (50 degrees) from the average to assess how many growing days are attained.

JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682 115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com Ready to help.

Calendar

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 8

Come Be Social With Us!

Civic Club Social Thursday April 29th

at 5:30 pm at MaddiMo Makery 309 Main Street Enjoy some refreshments, learn about what Civic Club is doing in the community and have a good time!

All are welcome to attend!

Gamblers Anon

Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.

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.Call 406-802-7180 for more information.

Family Shelter

The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.

LOOK at these!

2020 Ford Escape SEL SUV Ford Manufacturer Rebate and Incentive Program.

MSRP $35,020

Three Mile Coffee

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.

BitterRodders Cars

2.0L 4-Cylinder EcoBoost Engine, Automatic Transmission, All Wheel Drive, Remote Start, Power Windows, Power Door Locks, ActiveX Interior, Power Drivers Seat, Heated Front Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Power Heated Mirrors, Automatic Climate Control, Navigation, Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Keeping, Co-Pilot 360, Sync 3, Backup Camera, Reverse Sensing, Trailer Tow Package and more. Come check this one out or take it for a test drive today! Please call for Current Factory and Ford Credit Rebates or Lease Options.

2020 Ford F-150 King Ranch Truck MSRP $70,425 NOW $63,595 3.5L V6 EcoBoost Engine, Automatic Transmission, Four Wheel Drive, Remote Start, Leather Interior, Heated and Cooled Power Front Seats, Heated Rear Seats, Heated Steering Wheel, Navigation, Power Tilt and Telescopic Steering Wheel, Full Screen 360-Degree Camera, Reverse Sensing, Power Folding Tow Mirrors, Power Adjustable Pedals, Power Vista Moon Roof, Max Trailer Towing Package with Integrated Brakes and Backup Assist, Spray-In Bedliner, Power Running Boards, FX4 Off-Road Package and much more. Please call for Current Ford Manufacturer Rebate and Trade-in Incentive.

Bell McCall

300 W. Main • Hamilton • 363-2011 Competitive Prices - Hometown Services

Outstanding in his field Merle Unruh

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.

Child care help

Are you struggling to pay for child care right now due to the added burdens of the pandemic or a reduction of working hours? You may qualify for child care assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship! Contact Child Care Resources today to see if you qualify at 406-728-6446. Or, visit us online at childcareresources. org.

Divorce Care

Divorce Care is a free class/support group for those needing support, hope, and healing during and after divorce.

Divorce Care meets at Hamilton Assembly of God every Wednesday evening at 6:30 starting February 3 through April 29. Anyone can join at any time.

Please see Divorcecare.org for more information.

Soul Suppers

Soul Suppers in Stevensville Served Every Wednesday!

Free home cooked carry out meals with a message served every Wed.evening at 6 p.m.

101 Church St. Stevensville. For more information, contact Corey at 406) 214-8708.

Grief Support Group Call today

Talk to Merle for all your Real Estate Needs!

Hamilton 363-4700

Starting Saturday March 6th through Saturday May 29th.

At the Florence Carlton Community Church 20075 Old Hwy 93 South (White Building between the 2 churches) Call Deborah Foley for more info 208-240-4313.

Victor Senior Center

Now serving meals at the Center Monday Wednesday and Friday at 11:30 am. You can still order and pickup meals to go on Monday from 11:00 am to 11:30 am. Meals served at the Center Mon, Wed,Fri at 11:30 am

Bridge every Tuesday @ 1:00pm Bingo every Tuesday @ 6:00 pm starting May 4.

Pokeno 2nd and 4th Friday @ 1:00 For info or to volunteer call 642-3320.

Victor Community Garden

The Victor Community Garden is now open for registra-

tion. The garden has forty 20’ x 20’ plots with great sun exposure surrounded by a deer proof fence.

Compost, mulch, and tools are provided along with an automated watering system that waters every night and a paid garden manager who is always happy to help new gardeners. Organic methods are required. Pollinators abound with both fruit trees and a diverse native flower garden located in the center of the gardening area.

The fee for a plot is $35 for the whole season (year). The garden is located on 5th, just west of Victor. The growing season will be kicked off on Saturday, April 24 from 10am-3pm with the annual Spring garden work day, hopefully with the help of the Trapper Creek Job Corps kids if they are able at that time.

For more information on reserving plots, how to use the Community Garden, or about Sustainable Living Systems contact Jill Davies at 406-360-1751.

Women’s Defensive Handgun class

For Women Only Introduction To Defensive Handguns May 22 & June 5 2021 This 2 day course is for women with little or no experience with handguns, who may be frightened of handguns or who are considering acquiring a handgun.

The first day course is designed to assist you in choosing the right handgun – for you.

It will also introduce you to the facilities of the Whittecar Range.

There will be discussions on handgun safety, basic operation of revolvers, semi-automatic handguns, and the cartridges used in each type of handgun.

The legal aspects of the use of force will be presented and discussed.

Handguns will be provided so that you may handle the different types and models. Ammunition will also be provided for a live fire session on the range. A self defense book, specifically for women, will also be provided.

The second day course will teach basic defensive shooting using the students own equipment. Safe gun handling will be taught and stressed.

We will discuss various types of ammunition and the performance of each type.

The class will be held at the Whittecar Range on Blodgett View Road.

The class is limited to 10 participants.

For an application or further information call Lee at 642-3590 or Jim at 360-8392.

Successful completion of this two day course meets the education requirements for application to the state for a concealed carry permit.

Sons of Norway

Bitterrootdalen, Sons of Norway, will meet on Tuesday, May 4th at 5:30 p.m. at Grace Lutheran Church, 275 Hattie, in Hamilton. The social meeting will include planning for Norway’s Constitution Day, May 17th, a quiz session, and a history of Norway’s Independence in 1905.

The Lodge will provide the main dish. drinks and service, members and visitors are invited to bring a side dish. The public is invited.

Selway-Pintler Wilderness Back Country Horsemen

Spring is here and we’re hittin’ the trails! Want to ride and make a difference by volunteering to help keep our trails open?

ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Main St. Stevensville • 777-0028

Worship at 11:00 a.m.

In this Church there shall be no outcasts.

If so, come join the SPWBCH, a friendly, hardworking group of volunteers dedicated to preserving the common-sense use of horses in the backcountry.

The meeting will be Tuesday, May 11, at 6 p.m. at the home of President, Duane Krowen located at 313 Eagle Feather Ln, Victor. The meeting will be held outside, please bring a chair.

Discussions will include summer trail work, scouting rides and upcoming events. If you are new to the valley and want to meet new friends and see the beautiful mountain trails, come join in!

Owning a horse is not required to be a member and volunteer on our trails. Guests are always welcome to join for lots of “trail talk”. For more information and directions call Duane at 541892-6713 or 406-642-3932.

Bitterroot Quilters Guild

The Bitterroot Quilters Guild will hold a general meeting on Wednesday, April 28, 2021 at Daly Leach Community Room, 1010 W Main, Hamilton. Doors open at 6 pm for socializing and shopping; the meeting will come to order at 6:30. No refreshments will be served at the present time; please bring your own beverage if desired. Masks will be required.

There will be a Fat Quarter Drawing, 50/50 Pot, bargain sales at the Ugli Bin and what promises to be a lengthy, colorful show and tell at this gathering. There will also be sign-ups for volunteers for several activities planned for the spring and summer months, such as the Rummage Sale, May 21 – 22 at the Woodside Grange, and Community Day at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds, June 5.

Membership in the Guild is open to quilters from beginner through advanced. Annual dues are $20. To keep abreast of activities, please visit the Bitterroot Quilters Guild on Facebook

Hamilton Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

We are up and running again. New location. We meet 3rd Monday of the month. At 1:00 pm. We will be meeting at the Corvallis United Methodist Church (youth center) to the east of the church. Located on the corner of Corvallis Cemetery Rd. and Eastside Heat. Big white church.

Any questions please call me. Ginny Wigen, coordinator HPDSG. 406-544-9186.

North Valley Library events able!

Seed Library is now avail-

The little seed library is out and ready to be planted! Stop in the Library today to check some out! At the end of the season, bring some back to share! Packets are limited to 2 per person as supplies are limited.

Seed Library is now available!

The little seed library is out and ready to be planted! Stop in the Library today to check some out! At the end of the season, bring some back to share! Packets are limited to 2 per person as supplies are limited.

Crafty Friday! – Friday, April 30, 4 pm Each week, come for a low key craft and chill time at the library. Do the craft, your homework, or just read, it’s up to you. Physical distancing will

be observed and masks are required. Ages 12-18. Registration is strongly suggested, sign up on the Library’s website.

Space is limited.

Upcoming Events Summer Maker Kits for Kids – 2nd & 4th weeks of each month starting in June Register every other week for a different science experiment, art/craft project, or a maker activity. Please register for each week you wish to receive a kit on the Library’s website. Pick up your kits on Mondays or Tuesdays during the Library’s open hours. Kits will be tailored for age groups ranging from 2-11.

Summer Reading Program Registration – Begins Monday, May 3 - Ages 0-18 - Register on the Library’s Online Event Calendar to take part in the Summer Reading Challenge or Rubber Duck Reading Club. Keep reading all summer and earn amazing prizes!

Other Ongoing Programs & Happenings Book Bundles Need help deciding what to read next!? Have a library youth specialist custom-curate a selection of items for you! Get a pile of books from our collection that we think you’ll love.

Let us know your favorite types of books and our experts will create a bundle just for you.

Bundles include up to 5 items and will be ready within two to three days. We will notify you when they are ready for pickup at North Valley Public Library.

Register for yours on the Kids’ Zone page of the Library’s website. This service will be offered for the foreseeable future for ages 0-18.

1,000 Books Before Kindergarten What is 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten all about?

It is a national program that promotes early literacy and reading together with your child. The concept is simple; read a book (any book) to your newborn, infant, and/or toddler. The goal is to have read 1,000 books (yes, you can repeat books) before your little one starts kindergarten. You can then pick up a packet in the Children’s Room, print sheets from the Library’s website, or download the app (free in your app store). Each time you reach 100 books come in to the Library to turn in your sheet and get another or just show us your app. For every 100 books you read together, you’ll get your name on our digital “Wall of Fame” on the Library’s website. That’s it! Well, except that you and your child will have cuddle time and be building literacy skills and learning new things together. Register on the Kids’ Zone page of the Library’s website. Happy reading!

Early Literacy Activity Calendars The Library will be posting Early Literacy Activity Calendars each month on our website, Facebook, and Instagram! Try these daily literacy building activities with your child. This printable calendar includes daily literacy activities and book & song suggestions for you and your child to enjoy! Great for ages 5 & under.

Amazon Fire 7 Kids’ Editions The library now has two Amazon Fire 7 Kids’ Edition tablets for adults to check out for your kids! You need an internet connection to use Amazon FreeTime Unlimited. If you don’t have internet, check out one of our hotspots to go along with it. Amazon FreeTime gives your kids access to over 20,000 apps, games, books, videos, audiobooks, and educational content from PBS Kids, Nickelodeon, Disney, and more. They are set up for kids ages 3-12.

North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. The library thanks you for keeping all Montanans safe by practicing social distancing, wearing a face covering, and washing your hands. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org, on Facebook or Instagram, or call 406.777.5061.

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.

Legislative News

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 9

Montana grows into a second U.S. House seat State population counts from the 2020 census, published Monday, indicate Montana will regain the second U.S. House seat it lost following the 1990 census

by Eric Dietrich Montana Free Press U.S. Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) presides ahead of the final passage in the House of Representatives of U.S. President Joe Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus disease (COVID-19) relief bill inside the House Chamber of the Capitol in Washington, U.S., March 10, 2021.

Credit: Joshua Roberts / Reuters.

May not be republished without license.

A donation to Montana Free Press goes beyond the newsroom. We uncover the truth, explain essential news stories and hold those in power accountable.

Montana will gain a second representative in the U.S. House as seats are reapportioned according to population counts from the 2020

census, the U.S. Census Bureau said Monday.

The news means that, starting with the 2022 election, Montana will have two U.S. representatives for the first time since losing its second seat following the 1990 census. The state’s five-member 2020 Districting and Apportionment Commission will be responsible for drawing district boundaries.

Montana’s official 2020 population count, intended to represent the number of people living in the state as of April 1, 2020, is 1,084,225.

That’s 94,810 more Montanans than the 989,415 reported in 2010 — change representing 9.6% growth over the course of the decade.

That growth rate is essentially the same as the 9.7% rate reported for Montana from 2000 to 2010, and lower than the 12.9% growth rate over the decade between 1990 and 2000.

Between 1980 and 1990, the decade that saw Montana’s population stagnate to the point of losing its second seat in Congress, the state’s population grew a mere 1.6%.

Elsewhere in the country, Texas will gain two House seats as a result of the 2020 census, and Oregon, Colorado, North Carolina and Florida will join Montana in picking up one each. California, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio, West Virginia, Pennsylvania and New York will each lose a seat.

It is possible that the results will be challenged in court — New York, for example, would have held on to its 27th congressional seat if the census had counted 89 more residents there.

The numbers released Monday represent the first set of results available from the 2020 census,

the constitutionally mandated, once-a-decade effort to count every American in order to rebalance representation in the U.S. House of Representatives. The Census Bureau will eventually publish more detailed data from the 2020 count, including other demographic information and specific population numbers for smaller geographies including counties and towns.

U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo said Monday that the next set of data, the finer-grained demographic counts necessary to redraw political districts, will be available no later than Sept. 30.

In addition to allocating political representation in Washington, D.C., and state capitals across the country, census population counts and demographic data are routinely used in formulas allocating federal spending. Public census data, both collected through the decennial census and other bureau programs, is also relied upon by entrepreneurs, researchers and journalists, among others.

In a more narrow political sense, though, confirmation that a second representative is being added to Montana’s congressional delegation poured gasoline Monday on a longsmoldering debate about what fair district boundaries would look like.

As specified by the state Constitution, Montana’s redistricting commission is nominally nonpartisan, composed of two commissioners from each major political party and a tiebreaker chairperson appointed either by other commissioners or the Montana Supreme Court.

However, the 2020 commission

has already been the subject of political scrutiny. After its initial presiding officer stepped down citing health reasons last year, the state Republican Party issued a fiery press release criticizing the court’s replacement pick, former University of Montana tribal law professor Maylinn Smith, as having “a blatant partisan past” because she had previously made political contributions to Democratic candidates.

Montana GOP Chairman Don “K” Kaltschmidt referenced that criticism in a statement Monday.

“Despite our excitement, we also know our opposition will do everything in their power to minimize our voices at the ballot box by rigging the system for political benefit,” Kaltschmidt wrote. “As we have already expressed concern over the Commission’s fifth member, we will do all we can to ensure the redistricting process is fair, transparent, and carried out in a way that reflects the will of Montana voters, not just those seeking political power.”

Jeff Essmann, one of two Republicans on the districting commission, retweeted an image before the Census Bureau announcement Monday of a map grouping Missoula, Helena, Great Falls, Butte and Bozeman into a single district that would purportedly skew Democratic despite the state’s overall Republican lean in recent election cycles. “This is how you gerrymander,” he wrote.

For their part, Montana Democrats used the news about the second House seat as an opportunity to take an apparent swing at efforts by the

GOP-controlled state Legislature to restrict some voter registration options in the name of election security.

“Another seat in Congress gives Montana another seat at the table where decisions are made. We must ensure that the competition for this new office is free, fair, and unobstructed by irresponsible attacks on our democracy,” wrote Montana Democratic Party Executive Director Sandi Luckey. “To make sure this office truly reflects the will of all Montanans we must redouble our efforts to protect all eligible Montanans’ right to access the ballot box.”

Gov. Greg Gianforte and U.S. Rep. Matt Rosendale also issued statements Monday.

“Even though I will no longer be the lone representative from the state of Montana, this is a great opportunity for the state,” Rosendale said. “Having another member in our delegation makes us that much more powerful and it means we will have representation on more committees that are important to our state.”

Gianforte cited efforts by the Montana Department of Commerce to promote participation in the 2020 count, which was disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

“This is a great day for Montana.

With a second congressional seat, Montanans will have another voice in Congress to work on their behalf,” Gianforte said in a statement.

“It’s critical we avoid the traps of partisanship and gerrymandering as our new district lines are drawn.

Our new districts should be compact, keep our communities together, and make common sense.”

Vaccine mandates: truth, fiction, and unknowns Legislative proceedings stoked questions and concerns about COVID-19 vaccine requirements in Montana. Who is — and who isn’t — mandating vaccination, how strict are those policies, and how might HB 702 muddy the mix?

by Alex Sakariassen Montana Free Press Montana lawmakers have resumed a timely and controversial debate over state vaccination laws in recent weeks.

That debate has amplified questions and concerns about health care facilities and educational institutions mandating the

COVID-19 vaccine. employees beginning May 1. However, Hospital Association, Montana Medical The issue came into sharp focus last in keeping with current state law, Benefis Association and Montana Primary Care week as the Senate Public Health, Welfare staff can obtain deferrals on medical or Association released a joint statement religious grounds. and Safety Committee heard public tesopposing the bill on the grounds that Even without the forthcoming timony on House Bill 702, which would “House Bill 702 will prohibit hospitals, policy, Bania said, vaccination participaprohibit private businesses and governhealthcare facilities, nursing homes and ment agencies in senior living Montana from facilities from denying goods, requiring and services or employverifying ment to individufederallyals based on their approved and vaccination status. recommended Rep. Jennifer Carlvaccines for son, R-Manhattan, staff and resiintroduced the bill dents.” last month after a “Now is similar proposal not the time to died on a deadadd barriers that locked House floor will limit our vote in February. ability to keep During the hearhealthcare seting on HB 702, tings safe from several nurses testicommunicable fied that a Great diseases,” said Falls hospital was Pamela Cutler, requiring its staff MD, president to be immunized of the Montana against COVIDMedical Asso19 — a policy they ciation. “This said violated their bill jeopardizes tion has been fairly strong among the freedom of choice and threatened their the safety and well-being of our patients hospital’s staff. continued employment. Similar assertions and our communities and may have long“Since we started offering the vachave also surfaced online, tying the claims cine in December 2020, 64% of Benefis lasting repercussions that fly in the face of directly to Great Falls’ Benefis Health employees have chosen to be vaccinated,” public health measures found all over the System. world. It is illogical and extreme.” she said. Bania added that the policy is Montana Free Press contacted Bene- in line with Benefis’ standing employee MTFP reached out to several other fis directly to fact-check these claims.Jim Moerkerke, Montana hospitals to inquire about any policy for the CFP seasonal ® influenza vaccine.

Senior Vice President, HB Financial Senior Communications Specialist Whitcurrent or future employee vaccination 406-363-0266 or 702Consultant, passed a critical vote on Branch Manager ney Bania replied via email to a list of requirements. Chris Leopold, marketing 1-800-238-0266 the Senate floor Thursday after lawmakNorthaFirst specialist Street questions, and confirmed that Benefis will ers amended the bill this week1711 for Kalispell Regional Healthto strike Hamilton, MT 59840 be making provision stating that such requirements care, said KRH has not mandated the the COVID-19 vaccine for its staff and has would not be illegally discriminatory if COVIDno plans to implement such a policy in the individuals are allowed medical or reli19 vaccine gious exemptions. near future. While he couldn’t provide an mandaestimate of how many employees have Late Friday afternoon, the Montory for already been vaccinated, Leopold did say tana Health Care Association, Montana that participation in staff vaccination clinics this winter was high.

Professional Investment Advice “From what I’ve seen, most do get it,” Leopold said. “But there are some who have not and at this time, we have no plan to force anybody to have it.”

Jim Moerkerke, CFP ® Senior Vice President, Financial Consultant, Branch Manager Leopold added that KRH does require that 406-363-0266 or 1-800-238-0266 staff receive seasonal flu 1711 North First Street • Hamilton, MT 59840

shots, and offers medical and religious exemptions under that policy. Those who obtain an exemption are required to wear a mask in KRH facilities throughout the entire flu season — a moot policy this year, Leopold noted, considering that ongoing COVID-19 protocols still require all staff to mask up.

According to spokesperson Zach Benoit, the situation is similar at Billings Clinic, where there is currently no mandatory COVID-19 vaccine policy for staff.

Even so, Benoit said, Billings Clinic is in “full support” of the vaccine.

“We encourage everybody who’s eligible to get it,” he said. “This is one of the ways we get through this, so we are supportive of widespread vaccination.”

Benoit added that Billings Clinic did require all staff to receive the seasonal flu vaccine for the first time last fall, partly as a way to minimize other infectious disease threats during the pandemic.

Billings Clinic also allowed for medical and religious exemptions, but employees excused from the flu vaccine weren’t held to any specific safety provisions, Benoit said, since all staff were already under masking and social distancing requirements for COVID-19.

Nationwide, a growing number of universities and colleges have begun issuing COVID-19 vaccination requirements, further fueling questions about what policies Montana may see in the months to come. Major campuses such as Duke, Notre Dame, Cornell and Rutgers have all announced in recent weeks that all students must be fully immunized against the novel coronavirus by the first day of classes this fall. And just this week, the University of California and California State University announced they would implement a system-wide requirement if one or more of the COVID-19 vaccines gains full FDA approval. Asked whether the Montana Board of Regents has discussed a similar mandate for the Montana University System, Deputy Commissioner for Academic, Research and Student Affairs Brock Tessman said he doesn’t see any such policy coming.

“The board reserves the right to make policy shifts on any matter, at least any matter within their purview,” Tessman said. “But to be real straight in response, I haven’t heard any indication that they would think about adopting a policy that would mandate vaccines.”

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 10

Used book sale to benefit Friends of the Library The Friends of the Bitterroot Public Library are working together with Chapter One Book Store of Hamilton to sell donated books, previously offered for sale inside the library as recycled reads and at a large annual book sale.

The recycled reads books are now available for purchase at Chapter One Book Store.

The public frequently donates lightly used books and DVDs to the library. These items are sorted by the Friends and while some are added to the library’s collection, the remaining items were sold as recycled reads, stored away for the annual book sale or given away for free in the gazebo outside the library. In the past, all proceeds from these sales were used to support the library.

With COVID-19 making those options for selling the books more challenging, the library and the Friends explored other avenues for selling donated books. The partnership with Chapter One Book Store will allow for book bargain hunters to once again buy books to support the library, while at the same time reducing the workload on library staff and Friends volunteers in managing the inventory and accounting for the sales.

“It’s a great solution to the shuttering of the recycled reads,” said Vevan Yang, president of FOBPL. “The Friends of the Library is working with Chapter One Book Store to have them sell books donated to the Friends on consignment, basically. This will be great as it will take

pretty much all book selling out of the Friends’ responsibility and still generate money for the Friends.”

Donations, no more than two small boxes at a time, are accepted every Wednesday in the alley between BPL and the Hamilton City fire hall in a blue bin. The Friends requests donations be in good condition with no VHS tapes, magazines, textbooks, torn or stained materials, unbound materials, and non-useful items such as computer manuals, etc. After sorting sellable items to benefit Friends, donations end up in the gazebo, located on the west lawn of the library.

These items are free to the public.

“People really like the free shelf in the gazebo,” Yang said. “That’s not going away.”

Donations must still be made to the library, not to Chapter One, who manage their own used books section.

Library Director Mark Wetherington sees the use of Chapter One Book Store as a great example of the collaboration between local business and public services.

“They are doing us a huge favor, managing the sale of these items,” he said. “We really appreciate their support of the Friends and for working with us on figuring out a creative solution.”

Anyone interested in joining Friends or getting more information about this new program, can contact the library at (406)3631670.

Still time to comment on Calf Creek Wildlife Management Area habitat project Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is extending the comment period to April 30, 2021 on its proposal to conduct habitat restoration work on Calf Creek Wildlife Management Area (WMA), east of Hamilton. The proposal calls for removing some conifer trees on approximately 1,100 acres of grass/shrublands and forested areas on the WMA. The Environmental Assessment (EA) for the project was initially out for public review earlier this year, and the extension allowed for an onsite field tour of the project area after a portion of the WMA opened for seasonal use

on April 15. The proposal calls for thinning some conifer trees to promote more native grass, shrubs and aspen tree growth that are important to a variety of wildlife species.

Review the draft EA now on FWP’s website, fwp.mt.gov, under “News and Public Notices.”

Or, request the EA now and mail comment (beginning April 15) to: Region 2 FWP, Attn: Calf Creek Forest EA; 3201 Spurgin Rd., Missoula 59804; or by emailing shrose@ mt.gov. Comments must be received by April 30, 2021. For questions, please call 406-5425540.

Jaime Devlin, owner of A2Z Personnel, has issued a challenge to other businesses to donate to the Splash Pad that is planned for Lewis & Clark Park in Stevensville. A2Z Personnel has made a commitment to match all donations from other businesses up to $10,000. So far, nearly $5,000 has been raised toward the match.

Devlin was recently named Businessperson of the Year by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce. She is shown here with a banner hanging outside her Stevensville business where she is tracking business donations. The Stevensville Civic Club, which is facilitating the Splash Pad Project, and Project 59870, which is fundraising for the project, have also issued a combined challenge match of $25,000. The Stevensville Town Council has also committed funding from the Jean Thomas memorial endowment to go toward a recirculating water system for the splash pad. The project is on track to be built this summer. Photo by Victoria Howell.

Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS 1. Artist Chagall 5. Coupe 9. At sea 10. Small bunch of flowers 11. Popular American desserts 12. Legit 13. Expedition 15. Before, poetically 16. Capital of Iraq 18. Ear pain 21. Brew 22. Slanted font 26. Stringed instrument need 28. Prefix ten 29. Being 30. Always 31. Ball player __ Aaron 32. Sit in a car

DOWN 1. Charts 2. Land mass 3. Shallow area 4. Melon 5. Baboon 6. Suggested 7. Jeweled headdress 8. Eyed 10. Paltry 14. Speeding 17. Headfirst fall 18. Globe 19. Hawaiian ‘hello’ 20. Tree product 23. Israel’s son 24. Chilled 25. Sympathize 27. Writing liquid

Tickets are $70 per person or $490 per table of 8. Call the Chamber at 363-2400 or email localinfo@bvchamber.com to make reservations. Payment may be mailed or take to the office at 105 E. Main, Hamilton.

Payment may also be made by phone at 363-2400.

© Feature Exchange

Well deserved

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 11

With a huge thank you and shout out to the Stevensville Volunteer Fire Department from American Legion Post 94, the eagle is perched atop the American flag in Veteran’s Park in Stevensville. A special thank you to Levi Weiss and Lee Henderson. Cheryl Burgmeier photos.

Gail Fisher is the recipient of this year’s Pic Potter Memorial Award for her efforts on behalf of the Clothes Closet free store in Stevensville during the past year. The selection is made by the Clothes Closet board of directors. The award, now in its fifth year, is named for Pic Potter, one of the people who helped set up the Clothes Closet. According to board member Molly Hackett, Fisher was able to keep the Clothes Closet up and running throughout the pandemic.

Crossword Solution

© Feature Exchange

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406.841.2840

Bitterroot Star -- Page 12

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

ARPA: relief is on the way Council denies zoning request continued from page 1 security, eroding more than 30 years of progress in women’s labor force participation. It has unmasked the fragility of our caregiving infrastructure. And, our nation is falling behind its biggest competitors on research and development (R&D), manufacturing, and training. It has never been more important for us to invest in strengthening our infrastructure and competitiveness, and in creating the good-paying, union jobs of the future.”

Burrows wondered wondered why ARPA didn’t mention it.

Frandsen said she thought it was included under the category “transportation resilience.”

But after looking at the document again, she said, “I guess I just assumed that when it said infrastructure that it meant roads.” She said it was a good question and she would take it to the Senator.

Frandsen also cautioned that the money could not be used to lower taxes.

“You can’t use it to lower taxes,” she said, “but it can be used to backfill for providing services if it can be shown that COVID-19 affected your tax base.” She also said the legislature was also looking at re-configuring the tax structure.

Chilcott said, as for helping businesses, it is the timber industry that really needs help. He said the recreation industry produces a bunch

continued from page 1 of low paying minimum wage jobs whereas loggers make a lot more money.

“I’m not interested in replacing the timber industry in order to have low paying recreation jobs,” said Chilcott. He said a good healthy forest would provide for carbon sequestration needs but it will take long term contracts that will help support a mill to do it.

Burrows said that pulling in the reins on the National Environmental Policy Act would help. He also said every time they ask for help on roads and bridges they are told there is not enough money. He said that’s not exactly true. He said they claim there is no money to make Payments in Lieu of Taxes to the counties but they can find $300 to give to Pakistan for gender studies.

Commissioner Dan Huls said that public access was a big issue, too, and he would like to see some good roads and trails put in. He said the standoff over the Wilderness Study Areas needs to just be resolved “so we can move on.”

All the commissioners mentioned that they would like to see federal funding come straight to local government and not pass through the state. Chilcott said that there is no reason for the state to take a cut for administration and then delay the distribution while they figure out how they want to distribute it.

until they heard from the developer. In the public hearing on the project, there was concern over high ground and surface water in the area.

An ordinance to rezone a portion of Twin Creeks subdivision from R-1 to R-2 to allow multi-family housing was considered by the council. Ron Ewert with PCI, consultant for the developer, told the council that the new proposal was an improvement over the original due to lower impacts on the environment. He said 1300 feet of road and related infrastructure would not have to be built and two bridges over the creek would not be necessary. But Debra Buckley, a resident of Twin Creeks, said that 46 homeowners at 27 of the residences in Twin Creeks had been contacted and 100% of them were opposed to this zoning change. The council ended up voting 3-1 to deny the rezoning

ordinance, preferring to leave the original plan in place, with council member Paul Ludington casting the lone vote in favor.

Due to the fact that the rezoning request was voted down, the council also voted unanimously to deny a rephasing request for Twin Creeks subdivision.

In other business the council: • approved an increase to 14¢ per square foot for airport leases; • approved a lease agreement for hangar space at the airport that contains a bathroom, lounge and office space for use by staff and airport users at a cost of $3600 per year; • approved a Strategic Plan (see accompanying story) A community clean-up day is being planned for May 1st.

Stevensville now has a plan continued from page 1 heritage, historic significance, natural beauty, economic prosperity, and exceptional quality of life for all.”

The plan identifies a set of goals for each of five categories that include Safe and Healthy, Sustainable Resources, Innovative Infrastructure, Community Experience and Engaging with Our Partners. Under each goal, several actions are listed. For example, under Safe and Healthy, actions include: developing improved integrated response to emergencies, reinforce ongoing community policing efforts, focus efforts on the recruitment and retention of qualified volunteers and paid public safety staff, pursue programs that engage citizens and build relationships between the community and Police and Fire Departments, provide education opportunities that lead to reduced crime, property loss and injury, and beautify Stevensville through community-wide clean

and safe actions.

According to Mayor Brandon Dewey, if the make-up of the administration or the council changes and new people come on board, “There’s something for that person to look at and say, ‘I at least have a sense of where this organization is heading.’” Dewey said this is a “fluid document” that could be brought back before the council for further revision.

“There’s been a lot of time put into this,” said council member Jaime Devlin. “I wish you all could have seen the process that this took.

It would be a slap in some people’s faces if we didn’t approve this at this time… I one hundred percent support this.”

There was no public comment on the plan, which was approved unanimously.

The full Strategic Plan can be found on the town’s website: www.townofstevensville.com

No One Else Comes Close to the Bitterroot Star • Largest Readership • Competitive Advertising Rates • Local News Liz Cook: 880-2007 | liz@bitterrootstar.com James Pickford: 540-3331 | james@bitterrootstar.com

215 Main, Stevensville, MT 59870 406-777-3928 • ads@bitterrootstar.com

Obituary Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Thomas J Crane On April 13, 2021 we said goodbye to a very special man when Thomas J Crane lost his battle with cancer at the age of 68. He had spent his last two weeks of life being cared for by Hamilton’s Marcus Daly Hospital staff.

His passing leaves a great many friends and relatives with heavy hearts.

Thom was gifted in many art forms.

He especially took pride in his abilities as a sculptor of metal and glass, but music was his true passion. For those of us who were fortunate enough to hear him play his guitar and sing his favorite songs, it was magic. His repertoire was extensive, covering many genres.

He loved riding motorcycles, everything from dirt bikes to Harleys.

He often lamented that there were only two directions to go in the Bitterrroot, north or south. But either way was just fine – it was riding that mattered.

Thom entered the world on March 4, 1953 in Redding, California, the fourth of five sons born to Bess and

Stevensville - Shirley Clay, 58, passed away at home in Stevensville on Tuesday April 20, 2021. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Jack D. Pound

Hamilton - Jack D. Pound, 66, passed away in the morning, Thursday, April 22, 2021, at his home with family. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to care for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

Lowell D. Medenwaldt

Hamilton - Lowell D. Medenwaldt, 74, passed away early in the morning, Monday, April 26, 2021, at his home.

Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to care for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

WE ARE HIRING!

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Please call Tom Lund 406 363-8054 for more information or showing request.

Death Notices Shirley Clay

Les Crane. He spent his youth in the timber country on the Crane Ranch in Montgomery Creek, California before the family relocated to Alaska in 1969.

As an adult, he traveled the US fairly extensively, but the desert always held a special place in his heart. The sands of the Mojave in California and those of New Mexico frequently beckoned him back. The Bitterroot became his home in the early 2000’s and he truly left his sculptor’s mark here.

He was preceded in death by both parents and by his older brother Ric, who was KIA-Viet Nam. He is survived by his two sons Jess and Brian, wife Dora, brothers Jim, Ralph (Sandy), and Fred, dear local friends John LaPrade and Jim Schwehr Sr., as well as countless others from near and far.

Roll On, Thom…Roll On! Cremation has taken place under the guidance of Daly-Leach Chapel. There will be no services per Thom’s wishes.

His ashes will be scattered at a later date.

Popular well established restaurant on Hwy 93, easy access & good visibility

Bitterroot Star -- Page 13

Jobs vary from Administrative, healthcare, landscaping, manufacturing and construction just to name a few. Temp, part time and full time hours available.

Stop by the office to apply.

Mother's

Day is Coming!

Mother’s Day Sidewalk Sale Wed. May 5 - Sat. May 8* *weather permitting

• Fresh Halibut • Lobster Tails • • Wild Shrimp • Fresh Local Produce • • Kobe Steaks • Fresh Flowers •

$750,000 Montana Regional MLS #22010084

tom@coldwellbankerwsa.com 115 W Main St., Hamilton 406-363-1250 coldwellbankerwsa.com

Call for your free estimate To l l F re e : 1-855-MQS Barn

(677-2276)

333 S. 1st Ste. E Hamilton, MT 59840

363-7668

910 1st St., Hamilton

406-363-1626

ssstaffingjobs.com

Serving Select Regions of: Montana, Idaho and Washington [For detailed service areas, please visit our website]

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Classified

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 14

Call

777-3928 Deadline Monday

12 noon for Wednesday

SALES

BUILDINGS

THREE FAMILY SALE. Saturday and Sunday, May 1st and 2nd, 9:30 to 4:30, 109 Winslett Stevensville. Lots of restaurant kitchen serving pieces and tables. Home decor, good condition Queen size mattress and box Mission style bedroom set with night stands and dresser, full size mattress and box with frame, some Christmas decorations, cloths, tools and hardware.

All the usual treasurers you can’t live without! NO guns or antiques.

AUTHENTIC TIMBER FRAMED BARNS. Residential and Commercial Timber Packages. Full Service Design - Build Since 1990, (406) 581 3014 brett@bitterrootgroup.com, www.bitterroottimberframes.com BS TFN

ARTS & CRAFTS

YARD SALE - Fri & Sat, April 30th & May 1st, 8-3, 902 W. Pond, Hamilton. Household items, kitchen chairs, Christmas items, a little of everything. Lots of stuff!

May 8th, Mother’s Day Craft & Vendor Market hosted by Treasure Chest Events

Doors open at 10am-4pm

Handmade Crafts, Clothing, Candy, Jewelry, Spring Decorations, Food & Coffee Trucks, a Bar, & Much More!! Perfect place to get your Mother’s Day shopping done, all under one roof!!

FOR SALE

Ravalli County Fairgrounds

RELEASE INCREASED NUMBERS OF REJUVENATING STEM CELLS WITH STEM ENHANCE ULTRA by Cerule.

Blue green algae from Klamath Lake, plus other patented ingredients per Dr. Gitte Jensen. Earth’s super nutritious food from sunlight and water - Call Lynn at (415) 259-1721 with questions or to purchase.

BS 4-21, 4-28, 5-5.

52 Years of Service

Elaine’s Engraving & Rubber Stamps

363-5193

123 S. 5th Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton

FIEL FIE LD MOWING

Organic Farming Soil Analysis Cover Crops Pasture Reseeding Rototilling Field Dragging Paddock Clean-out

MARVIN AHLSTRAND

HELP WANTED

BITTERROOT STAR is seeking a sports reporter to cover high school sports and Legion baseball, etc.

Send resume and samples to editor@bitterrootstar.com or call Victoria at 777-3928 or 207-8793 for more information.

BROWSING BISON BOOKS is seeking part-time sales associates for a new bookstore opening this summer in Stevensville. Sales, social media experience, and a love of literature helpful. Email your resume to info@adedpro.com.

BS TFN

Weiser

Insurance

community. Send resume and samples to editor@bitterroot star.com or call Victoria at 7773928 for more information.

Stevi Tennis

ONLINE Teacher Certification offered through Montana Western. Programs designed for teachers seeking advancement and individuals interested in becoming a

By Ashley Jones teacher. Accessible wherever you This are. season, Call (406) the 683-7537 orStevensville go to www.umwestern.edu/ tennis online for more program has a information. small team.

Vehicles Wanted

Vertex Construction LLC

POLE BUILDING SPECIALIST

•fencing •garages

•garage doors •carports •decks

JIM WERST • 406-381-7337 • HAMILTON

Need Help? We cover the entire valley!

-- Stranded, Accident, Locked out or Flat Tire?

• Prompt • Courteous • Professional

HELP WANTED

“Bud” Weiser 406-880-4432

www.vertexconstllc.com

BITTERROOTFIELDMOWING.COM

998 N. First Hamilton Mt 363-4050

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.

Spor

Wednesday, April 14, 20

Their team consists of 5 boys and 11 girls. This is NORTHWEST COMMUthe smallest team they NITY HEALTH CENTER is NEWS REPORTER have had 32 years. Head looking for in a motivated and position open to cover coach Bill Everett stated, team oriented Full Time CertiHamilton news for weekly “There is not a full team fied Pharmacy Technician to Bitterroot Star. Part time. on the boys side.”

The our pharmacy girls team recentlyteam. beat The Must have solid writing skills join successful will be Ronan andcandidate Dillon. “Polson and some knowledge of the girls are strong,” said Everett. They won by 7 points against Stevensville.

Missing last season was hard on Bill Everett’s team.

Buying nice late model “Last year was hard, hard • Medicare Supplement trucksThey and didn’t SUV’s oncars, the seniors. or Advantage get to play their senior Fast - Safe • Covers virtually everything! year. It was tough,” Everett Convenient Purchase said.

Daily practices for • Life Insurance Everett’s team consists of conditioning, working on Call Ron 406-961-1616 different parts of the game, Willowking Creek playing andMotors queen of LLC the court, and finishing with playing around the court. Everett stated, “This Bringing 18 years of Montanayear Construction the area! we aren’t to having any matches Building the Future andhome Restoring thebecause Past Rebuilds & Remodelsof the shape Patios the tennis courts are in. We need new General Construction Foundations courts.”

Coach Bill Everett Framing Landscaping wants to try and make tennis as fun as possible.

He would like to see his players grow to406-381-0518 play tennis Calen Larsen as a lifetime sport. vertexconstruction@mail.com

406-529-6158

•bobcat work •small concrete work

20-Word Commercial $10.50 Each Add’l Word - 20¢ Includes Posting to Web Page

able to work in a fast paced Box 1169, Cut Bank MT 59427. environment, display compeEmail questions to Jerrytencies in performing detailHofer73@gmail.com or call oriented work with accuracy, (406)336-2638. interact with staff and patients in a positive way, and be able to make critical decisions as necessary. Job requires high school diploma and State of Montana Pharmacy Technician License. Experience with FIRE DESTROYED HOME. pharmacy computer systems, Sr. seeking local studio, 1 bedroom and/or one or more years’ or in-law in Stevi, Victor, FlorOn Monday, 29, 2021, student artunit entries (Stevensville). experience in a March healthcare ence.

Call cell 415-359-1721. for the 2021 Montana State Junior Duck Stamp Third Place finis environment preferred. PosiBS 4-14, 4-21, 4-28Schlabach (Stevens Contest from across Montana were judged at Lee tion is eligible for Wildlife comprehenMetcalf National Refuge in Stevensville. The (Stevensville), Eve RENTAL HOUSE WANTED sive benefits, and Wage will be Junior Duck Stamp Program is a dynamic arts and Montplaisir (Billin for clients: $500 Fee with determined on experience and science curriculum designed to teach youth aboutFinder’s(Stevensville), Ady lease: mature couple qualifications. please waterfowl andTo theapply habitat that theysigned depend on. aIn Bentley (Florence) withstudent well trained yard, addition to an original art entry, each is dog; need Honorable Men submit resume to: Northwest one level, 2-3 bedrooms, 2 bath, 6 encouraged Health to create a conservation message that Piazza (Stevensvill Community Center 320 month minimum lease, rent up toGreenwalt explains whatLibby, they have learned about wetlands, Hadley E 2nd Street, MT 59923 $2000+, Call conservation, waterfowl, and wildlife.

The depending artwork on specs.

(Stevensville), Seel or via email to maria.clemons@ Celia: 406-550-1014. and conservation message are considered a visual Spafford (Florence northwestchc.org BS TFN “term paper” of what students have learned about Emmitt Phelps (St

SEEKING HOUSING

Montana Junior Duc

waterfowl and wetlands.

(Stevensville), Lily K-8 CERTIFIED Twenty-seven native species of North FreshAmerican Farm Eggs from Cooper Pastured(Stevensvil TEACHER Mountain View waterfowl were depicted across the Hens.

51 entries.

A at the Bitterroot Available panel of judges selected the to entry of Jackson Elementary.

Send Resume Star or Hall by calling Victoria of Eureka View as theElementary, “Best of Show”. Hall’s oil painting Mountain at 207-8793. depicts an adult male redhead duck in its natural habitat. Vying for the “Best of Show” were Caleb Pernsteiner’s pastel depiction of a male Green Wednesday Winged Teal, Bryson Traina’s acrylic depiction Mostly Cloudy of an adult male Barrow’s Goldeneye, Hunter 48 / 26 Reynolds’ acrylic depiction of an Emperor Goose Local UV and Alexandria Meester’s oil and acrylic depiction of an adult male hooded merganser. Hall’s entry has

0-2 3 4 5 6 7 been forwarded for further competition against the 0-2: Low, 3-5: M 49 other Best of Show entries from each state. One 6-7: High, 8-10: V 11+: Extreme E of the 50 Best of Show entries will be selected as Weather T the National Junior Duck Stamp Program winner, Have tornadoes occ officially printed as a stamp representing the Junior every state?

Duck Stamp Program. The judging for the 2021 National Junior Duck Stamp contest will begin on April 16, 2021.

Montana First Place finishers are: Grades K-3 – Weather H Victoria Meester (Rexford), Bryson Traina (Eureka), April 14, 1987 - A Hunter Reynolds (Eureka); Grades 4-6 – Judah moving slowly north the middle of the Mi Montplaisir (Billings), Betty Jean Wheat (Eureka), produced severe which spawned th Family & Operated Alexandria Meester (Rexford); GradesOwned 7-9 – Orianna around Ottumwa, Pernsteiner (Hamilton), Scout Holcomb (Florence), produced up to four i southeastern Nebrask you money since Lily Agin (Stevensville); GradesSaving 10-12 - Caleb Pernsteiner (Hamilton), Jackson Hall (Eureka).

1972 April 15, 1921 Second Place finishers are: Grades K-3 – Liana Silver Lake, Colo inches of snow in BlilerSERVICING (Stevensville), ALL YahraYOUR Truman (Eureka), & LAUNDRY heaviest 24-hour tota KITCHEN North America. Th McKenzie Bentley (Florence); Grades 4-6 – total of 87 inches APPLIANCE NEEDS FROM LOLO TO DARBY Mia Schlabach (Stevensville), Jasmine Agin half hours.

(Stevensville), Keith Schlabach Grades NO MATTER WHERE(Stevensville); YOU BOUGHT THEM 7-9- Jada Spafford (Florence), David Laufenberg

JOHNSON APPLIANCE SERVICE IN HOME SERVICE SPECIALISTS

Now Providing You with Quality Speed Queen Laundry Products 363-3592

Legals Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Justin Kenneth Etheridge: Petitioner Cause No.: DV-21-132/3 Dept. No.: 1 HOWARD F. RECHT Notice of Hearing on Name Change This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Justin Kenneth Etheridge to Justin Kenneth Snow. The hearing will be on May 5, 2021 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County.

Date: March 29, 2021.

PAIGE TRAUTWEIN Clerk of District Court By: Mary Fliss

Deputy Clerk of Court BS 4/7, 4/14, 4/21, 4/28 ________________________ Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Christopher McDermott, Christopher McDermott, Petitioner Cause No. DV-21-56/6 Dept. No.: 1 Notice of Hearing on Name Change This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Christopher Michael McDermott to Christopher Michael O’Conner. The hearing will be on April 28, 2021 at 1:30 p.m.

The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County.

Dated: March 17, 2021. /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of Dis-

trict Court.

By: Mary Fliss, Deputy Clerk of Court.

BS 4-14, 4-21, 4-28, 5-5-21. MNAXLP ________________________ NOTICE Jason Beavers, Notice is now given, that pursuant to the provisions of MC 70-6-601, et seq, and the contract you signed, the contents of your storage unit is now subject to any operators lien. Unless the accruing balance is paid in full, before 12 noon, May 29, 2021, the contents of the storage units will be removed and sold at Westbridge Storage,, Hamilton MT 59840, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 29,2021 BS 4/21, 4/28, 5/5

Make your

mark

________________________ NOTICE Hayley Sylstad, Notice is now given, that pursuant to the provisions of MC 70-6-601, et seq, and the contract you signed, the contents of your storage unit is now subject to any operators lien. Unless the accruing balance is paid in full, before 12 noon, May 29, 2021, the contents of the storage units will be removed and sold at Westbridge Storage,, Hamilton MT 59840, at 1 p.m. on Saturday, May 29,2021 BS 4/21, 4/28, 5/5 ________________________ AUDIT PUBLICATION STATEMENT An audit of the affairs of the Stevensville Public Schools, Stevens-

Bitterroot Star -- Page 15

ville, Montana, has been conducted by the firm of Denning, Downey & Associates, P.C. Certified Public Accountants. The audit covered the fiscal year ending June 30, 2020.

Section 2-7-521, MCA, requires that this publication concerning the audit report is on file in its entirety and open to public inspection at Stevensville School District Business Office, 300 Park St. Stevensville, MT. BS 4/28 ________________________ Stevensville School District has the following items available for bid: (1) HQ Simply Sixteen Longarm Quilting Machine-Minimum start bid $2,000.00 (1) 5 3/8” x 13” x 17’0” Glu-Lam Beam-minimum start bid of

$300.00 (11) 5 ⅛” x 11 ¼” x 27’0 Glu-Lam Beams-minimum start bid of $400.00 each (11) 5 ⅛” x 11 ¼” x 32’0” GluLam Beams-minimum start bid of $500.00 each Several Miscellaneous books-make an offer Bids will be accepted until 4:00 p.m., May 12, 2021. Bids need to be sealed and mailed or delivered to the business office located at 300 Park Ave, Stevensville MT, 59870 before the deadline. Along with your bid amount please include your name and phone number so you can be contacted if you win the bid.

BS 4/28

BUrnt Fork Vet Spring updates CONSTRUCTION COMING SOON

Construction will begin this spring to add more exam rooms and other improvements!

We will continue curbside service ONLY for the forseeable future to accomodate this.

Use our check-in window or give us a call upon your arrival! 406.777.3844

Whether you’re a startup or a well established presence in your community, we have the tools you need to reach your customers and now we offer Personalized Branding Options, with Pet Brushes, Nail Trimmers, Hats, Branded Office Supplies, Corkscrews, Carabiners and more! If you need 5,000 pens with your name, or just one special item to reward your employee who is celebrating 25 years with you, we’re here to help.

Liz Cook liz@bitterrootstar.com

LARGE ANIMAL SERVICES Large Animal routine and emergency services now available! Call 406.777.3844 and choose the large animal option!

James Pickford james@bitterrootstar.com

NEW TO THE AREA?

Bitterroot

We are still accepting NEW patients and NEW clients! Be prepared for emergencies and call NOW to establish care! 406.777.3844

Star

3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com

Pre-Paid Simple Cremation

$2,200

We help you navigate the home selling process. Call us today!

Celia Grohmann, Broker 406-550-1014

406-363-1111

New Community Housing in Stevensville!

http://on93.com

BuRNt FORk PLAcE u BOX BIRD LANE

Serving 62 or Older, Disabled of Any Age and Victims of Domestic Abuse • • • • •

2- or 3-bedroom units Covered parking Air conditioning Stove, Fridge, Dishwasher Washer/Dryer

N Accepow A ppli ting c atio ns

Income limits and restrictions do apply.

INC

Call for information and applications Helping you find a house to make your home

320 S Second | Hamilton, MT 59840 | 406-363-4430 | cardinalproperties.net

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 16

We are in your corner Buying or Selling

Your Trusted Advisor Serving the Bitterroot Valley for Over 15 Years

EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY www.EXITMT.com

99 Marcus St., 3rd Floor, Hamilton, MT, 59840

It’s Never Been a BETTER TIME TO SELL

CALL US TODAY! 406-375-9251 L O C A L E X P E R T I S E . H I G H LY T R A I N E D . P R O F E S S I O N A L .

Max Coleman

Tina Coleman

Sue Justus

Craig Siphers

Heather Lupton

Kim Lendman

Tracy Walczak

Misty Madruga

Susana Moore

Carl Grumann

Jennifer Kistler

Karin Chimo

Debi Shelby

Serra Stehlik

Jeff Umland

Jeanne Wald

Aly Lester

Jeff Alexander

Charline Siphers

Erica Siphers

Daniel Pendergast

Broker/Owner, GRI

REALTOR®

REALTOR®

Owner

REALTOR®

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Broker, GRI

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Broker

REALTOR®

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Broker

REALTOR®

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Broker

REALTOR®

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REALTOR®, GRI

REALTOR®

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HAMILTON•STEVENSVILLE•DARBY•POLSON•LAUREL•LOLO•MISSOULA•WEST MISSOULA•HELENA•GREAT FALLS

0% Down, 0% A.P.R. financing for up to 60 months on purchases of select new Kubota Z700 Series equipment from participating dealers’ in stock inventory is available to qualified purchasers through Kubota Credit Corporation, U.S.A.; subject to credit approval. Some exceptions apply. Example: 60 monthly payments of $16.67 per $1,000 financed. Offer expires 6/30/21. Terms subject to change. This material is for descriptive purposes only. Kubota disclaims all representations and warranties, express or implied, or any liability from the use of this material. For more information, see Dealer or go to KubotaUSA.com.

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 17

Looking for a unique gift?

We’ve got you covered!

Coming This Summer:

NEW LOCATIONS in Stevensville

and Philipsburg!

No need to leave the house, have your book shipped directly to your door from the comfort of your couch! https://bookshop.org/shop/browsingbison Audiobooks are available for download at: libro.fm/browsingbison

515 Main St., Deer Lodge • 846-3288 Wed., Thurs., Fri. 10 am- 6 pm Sat. 10 am - 4 pm

Wednesday, April 28, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 18

Delivery Service Monday-Friday 721-2456

Sale good thru 05/04/21

Check out our in-store weekly grocery & Natural foods Flyer!

The Fork is Your Cinco Headquarters for Savings!

Taco Headquarters!

At the Fork we are loaded & we have what it takes for a Cinco De Mayo celebration. From Black Angus Ground Beef ground fresh everyday, to fresh avocados. You will also love our homemade Tortilla chips made fresh in our Deli. Also check out our great selection of Mexican Beers & Limes or no Limes.

So get your taco on & head to the Fork for more Mexican Flavor!

Purple Haze & Brindle Shoots + Other Dry Flies, 6 for $13.00, Jim Approved!

Sweet Corn on the Cob

BFM Fresh Salsa

Black Angus X Lean Ground Beef

10 $5 $299 ears

Delicious

Asssorted

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast

2

$ 49 lb.

Valu Pak

$ 99

Choice/valu pak

Local Flavor

lb.

Roma Tomatoes

Cosmic Crisp Apples

99

99

¢ lb.

Black Angus Chuck Roast

¢

lb.

16oz

2

$ 99

$ 29

Seriously Delicious

Chicken Tacos

Hass Avocados

1

bag

Black Angus Petite Sirloin

6

Star Dairy Asiago Wedges

Montana Medium Eggs

99¢ 2 $3 for

dozen

lb.

Save/8 oz.

Local Flavor

Black Angus Rib Steaks

9

Prairie Fresh Loin Pork Chops

2

$ 49

$ 00

$ 99

$ 99

Save!

USDA Choice

USDA Choice

Grill’em

Black Angus Baron Of Beef Roast

Fresh Mangos

Taco Time!

Bunch Cilantro

2

Free Range Local Fryers

each

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

lb.

USDA Choice Chuck Steaks

lb.

lb.

$ 99

$ 88

Delicious

USDA Choice

2 $1 Taco Time!

Valu Pak!

USDA Choice

USDA Choice

2 $3

Organic Broccoli

Organic Onions

Head Lettuce

Jumbo White Onions

Slicing Cucumbers

Whole Pineapple

Fresh Jicama

1

4

3

$ 99

Delicious!

Fresh Strawberries

2

2

each

BFM Homemade Tortilla Chips

Casa Pablos Salsa

1 lb.

2

9 lb.

$ 99

$ 99

Save!

Save!

lb.

Cabot Seriously Sharp Cheese

9

Ore-Ida Potatoes

2

$ 99

& Sharp

& Sharp

Sushi Grade Tuna Steaks

Pacific Treasure Large White Shrimp

9

19-32 oz.

9

$ 99

$ 99

lb.

99

3 lb. bag

$ 99 2 lb.

for

lb.

Taco Time

Boar’s head Roasted Turkey

6

$ 99 lb.

In Our Deli Dutch Farm Mexican Shreds

6

$ 99

lb. 21-25 ct.

Tuna Tacos!

¢

2 lb

Save!

Taco Time

2

$ 49 lb.

89

¢

lb.

Save!

Kraft Mac & Cheese

99

4

$ 99 lb.

4

$ 99

for

lb.

Salsa Time!

2 1

$ 99

$ 29

Sweet!

Save!

Fresh Express Baby Blends

Whole Cantaloupe

for

$

2

Salad Time!

2

2

1

each

lb.

Casa Pablos Salsa

3

$ 99

$ 99

$ 99

7.25 oz./Save!

Assorted

Delicious

Local Flavor

Arrowhead Sparkling Water

Philadelphia Cream Cheese

Alaskan Flash Frozen Cod Fillets

Hatch Pepper Cheese

¢

each

99

¢

33.8 oz.

Assorted

5 oz.

3

$ 29

2 pak.

each

7

16 oz.

5

$ 99

$ 99

Taco Time!

Save!

Save!

lb

lb

We Sell Black Angus USDA Choice Beef, Perfect for the Grill!

Rosarita Refried Beans

98

¢

16 oz.

Assorted

Daisy Sour Cream

2

$ 38

24 oz.

Save!

Stagg Chili

2 3 $

15 oz.

Assorted

Herdez Salsa Casera

99

¢

16 oz.

MT Olive Pepperoncini

2 3 $

12 oz.

Assorted

Food Club Ketchup

99

¢

Save!

24 oz.

Food Club Tomatoes

98

¢

14.5 oz.

Assorted

10% Off When You Purchase 6 or More Bottles of Wine, Mix or Match!

Pacifico, Corona Corona Light

1499

$

12 pak.

Dos Equis Lager Portlandia Pinot Gris

11

$

99

& Rose

750 ml

Barefoot Cali Wines

5

$ 99

750 Assorted

Modelo Lager Cans

6

$ 99

6 pak.

Lime Me

Broadside California Wines

1199

$

750 ml Assorted

Sol Cerveza, Lagunitas Brews

7

$ 99 Save

6 pak.

Rombauer Chardonnay

BFM Pepperoni Take’n Bake Pizza

Earthquake Zin & Cab

Freakshow Chardonnay

3399 $1099 $1699 $1199

$

Save!

750 ml

Fresh Limes

2 1 for

$

Cerveza Friendly!

Delicious!

each

Frito Lay Doritos

5

$ 00

2 bags Assorted

750 ml Stock up!

Tecate Cans

15

$

Save!

Bud, Bud Light, Coors, Coors light

23

99 $

18 pak.

Lime me!

601 Main St. Stevi • Local Flavor 7 Days a Week! • 7AM - 10PM 777-4663 • Locally Owned

750 ml

99

30 pak.

Also LITE