Bitterroot Star - June 10, 2020

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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 XXXV, Number 47

Find the latest updates and information on the COVID-19 pandemic at www.bitterrootstar.com Wednesday, June 10, 2020

www.bitterrootstar.com

Bitterroot Public Library levy passes

Black Lives Matter in the Bitterroot

The Bitterroot Public Library mill levy has passed with significant support from library district voters. The unofficial final vote tally was 5,313 for the levy with 3,641 against. This was the library’s first levy request in over 20 years. Library Director Mark Wetherington expressed gratitude to the voters in the library district. “The library, its staff and the Board of Trustees are so grateful to the voters to helping us maintain and grow our library so that we may continue to serve our community to the highest degree possible,” Wetherington said. “Our Friends of the Library, Bitterroot Public Library Foundation and other volunteers really stepped up and advocated in the community for our library and we are so thankful,” he continued. “We couldn’t have

Stevensville annexation request limps along

By Michael Howell Last Friday, Mary Fahnestock-Thomas sent out an email message inviting people to join her on Saturday at the intersection of First Street (Highway 93) and Marcus Street in downtown Hamilton. She said she was going to grab her George Floyd sign and go stand on the corner to show support for protests going on around the country in response to George Floyd’s death. “Today would have been Breonna Taylor’s [another victim of a police violence] birthday,” she wrote. On Saturday, a small handful of people could be seen standing on the corner of Marcus and 1st with their signs: End Systemic Racism “I can’t breathe.” These were the early birds. The next day over 200 people showed up with signs and masks in response to a call put out by Corvallis High School senior Frances Carrasco and some of her friends. It was a peaceful demonstration with some chanting, but mostly waves and thumbs up and some horn honking as people driving by acknowledged the protesters.

By Michael Howell

One minor incident was reported involving a man who came through shouting “white lives matter.” According to KECI TV reporter Kevin Maki, the man shouted at the protesters that “every demonstration ends up in violence because the violent people come there to use it for their gain.” According to Hamilton City

Police Chief Ryan Oster, the man was getting into people’s faces and creating a disturbance. He said an officer was able to get him to calm down and no arrest was made. The individual was issued a warning for Disorderly Conduct. “Other than that we had no trouble at all at the event,” he said. “It was very peaceful.”

Bitter Root Water Forum’s ‘Earth Stewardship Program’ goes virtual School has looked a little different this spring. Students, teachers, parents and more have needed to adapt. In previous years, the Bitter Root Water Forum has hosted field trips in May for their Earth Stewardship Program. The Earth Stewardship Program is a year-long effort with seventh grade students that features monthly classroom visits from community educators and wraps up with environmental education field trips. Due to

done this without their dedicated support. This funding will allow us to continue being a library that everyone can be proud of and find value in.” The levy will generate an additional $143,000 per year in revenue for the continuing operation of the library. This summer, the library plans to replace its roof at an approximate cost of $50,000. In addition to funding necessary maintenance projects, the increased revenue will allow the library to expand its programming for youth and families, purchase additional materials for the library’s collection, provide access to take-home technology devices such as wireless hot spots, and keep up with the costs associated with meeting the demands for library services and materials from a growing population in the Bitterroot Valley.

students learning from home this spring, the field trips were adapted to a virtual format. A student who participated stated they were glad “the videos were fun to watch.” The Bitter Root Water Forum is a local nonprofit that works to bring the community together to protect, enhance, and restore the watershed we all rely on. Their watershed education programs aim to inspire youth and engage adults on various topics related to water resources.

Through on the ground restoration, they work to improve water quality and wildlife habitat in the Bitterroot River and its tributaries. Throughout the 2019-2020 school year, seventh graders at Victor, Lone Rock, Corvallis, and Darby middle schools have welcomed many speakers into their life science classrooms. Students came to expect a monthly visit from a local professional who See WATER FORUM, page 9

The Stevensville Town Council held its first regular council meeting since March on June 4th at the North Valley Public Library’s community room. The change of venue was to accomodate for social distancing due to COVID-19 concerns. Meetings will continue to be held there for the time being. The Stevensville Town Council balked once again at approving an annexation request from Jesse Reeves, owner of a 26-acre parcel of land adjoining the town’s well field on the southeast edge of town along

Middle Burnt Fork Road. The last time the Council considered it, it was tabled until a contract could be completed with the landowner concerning an easement for the town to access the pond on the property and potentially place more wells. The town had an opportunity to exercise a right of first refusal on the property and purchase it last November. The mayor, based on consultation with staff, recommended purchasing the property because it was a crucial piece in the town’s plans for future development of the well field. The council felt it was not affordable at the time. Reeves had also offered

assurances that he would allow for some sort of easement in exchange for putting his home on the town’s water and sewer system. However, state law requires the town to annex the property if it is going to provide water and sewer services. This led to the initial request for annexation and to the question of completing a contract between the parties concerning the easement. The problem with completing the contract, Mayor Brandon Dewey told the council at its last meeting, is that the town is not prepared.

to the county commissioners and made them aware of the conditions and asked for a bigger, safer place to work. She said the commissioners told them to make a plan. But when they went to get a bid on an engineering for design of a new building or improvements in the old, Morris said that Commissioner Greg Chilcott suggested they go talk to the Victor Fire Department which had just moved to a new station on the edge of town and look into using the old fire hall located just across the street from Victor Park. It only took a 20-minute conversation with the fire chief, she said, to realize what a deal they had found. They started remodeling the building to suit their needs in midJanuary. The County Commissioners put $7,500 into the deal and Morris and the whole Weed District staff jumped in to do the

work. Maybe not all the work, but most of it. “We didn’t do any electrical,” said Morris, “and we didn’t do the framing.” But they did do a lot. They put the walls up to make the new office spaces and sheet-rocked them. They replaced ceiling tiles and put in molding and trim made from re-used building materials. They installed the flooring and the bathroom fixtures, using an old antique dresser for a washstand and old pan for a sink. It sounds funky, but it looks really neat. The road crew including Tom Burge, John Harris, and Joey Bryan all helped in the remodel, bringing tools from home and putting in a lot of sweat. They are very excited about the move. There is a parking bay for every vehicle they have now and a place

See STEVI, page 3

Ravalli County Weed District moves into old Victor Fire Hall By Michael Howell

Ravalli County Weed District employees did not just find a new home to house their operation; they pretty much built it. Or, more exactly, they rebuilt the old Victor Volunteer Fire Department to meet their needs. Just to be clear, they re-modeled the old fire hall themselves with their own sweat, labor and tools. If you ever visited the Weed District headquarters when it was housed in a shop near the airport north of Stevensville, you can appreciate the need for some more suitable accommodations. It was a little like a cross between working in a closet and working in the middle of an active shop. Now, things couldn’t be more different. The turn in events took place last January, according to Kellieann Morris, Noxious Weed Coordinator. She said they went

See WEED DISTRICT, page 8

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Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Virtual town hall meeting for veterans The Montana VA Health Care System (MTVAHCS) is excited to invite Veterans to a tele town hall this Wednesday, June 10th, from 5:30-6:30 p.m. This tele town hall will help connect Veterans to their in-person, virtual, and community care options. The MTVAHCS was selected last month as a lead facility among its VA region to expand face-to-face healthcare services. The Montana VA will also detail what in-person services are available, and cover their response to coronavirus and plans to continue to keep Veterans and staff safe.

Veterans are encouraged to call in to the tele town hall to ask questions. To access the tele town hall, Veterans will call 866-4783358 on Wednesday, June 10th at 5:25 p.m. MTVAHCS’s overall trust scores—which derive from Veteran rankings of their health care experiences—are at a historic high. MTVAHCS provides healthcare to Veterans across Montana through a series of communitybased clinics, the Miles City Community Living Center (Montana’s only federal nursing home), an acute care medical center, a

Relief available for Stevensville area businesses

nationally acclaimed sleep center, and robust telehealth services. The MTVAHCS serves over 47,000 enrolled Veterans across Montana—an area roughly 147,000 square miles in size. Veterans are cared for by a staff of nearly 1,200 at 17 sites of care across the state. One third of Montana VA employees are Veterans. For more information, visit the MTVAHCS website and contact Public Affairs Officer Katie Beall at Catherine.beall@va.gov or 447-7303.

GARAGE SALE

The Stevensville Business Relief Fund administered through Project 59870 is continuing to collect and distribute funds to businesses in the 59870 zip code that are struggling due to COVID19 closures and restrictions. So far, 11 businesses have received funding totaling $10,500. Thirty-eight businesses and individuals have contributed to the relief fund. Businesses that need help can access the application on the Town of Stevensville’s website, townofstevensville.com. Anyone needing more information can contact Victoria at 207-8793.

Thank You

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For your support that returns me to Helena for another session as your Representative in HD88. Being a candidate is never a singular undertaking. It’s a team effort and I am humbled by you and the outcome. I promise all of you that I will give every ounce of my energy to represent this valley and our district. The national pandemic uncertainty along with escalating culture challenges will result in fiscal and social demands the likes of which we haven’t seen in 52 years....going back to 1968. The next legislature will face many difficult decisions. My promise is to look at each of these from the impacts on Ravalli County, then the state and nation. One of the largest challenges will be declining revenue income as the impacts of this year are realized. Thank you for your trust and confidence. I will always try my best to keep Ravalli County first in my decisions. Representative Sharon Greef HD88 PAID FOR BY SHARON GREEF, ED GREEF, TREAS. PO BOX 1327, FLORENCE MT 59833 Delivery Service Monday-Friday 777-4663

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continued “At this time, the administration does not know how much land will be required for the easement and where on the 26.06 acres the easement would be located,” he told the council. He said that information would not be available until the 2020 Water System Preliminary Engineering Report (PER) was completed. The report will outline future needs for wells, where they should be, and a time frame for installation. Dewey said that following the last council meeting he had worked with the Town’s attorney Scott Owens concerning the desired contract and been advised that any contract signed at this point would not hold sufficient legal basis because the town can’t tell what the easement would look like or even where it would be exactly located. Dewey reminded the council that it decided to surrender its right of first refusal on the property in November with the good faith understanding that Reeves would honor a future easement for the town. He said, at this point the administration was recommending proceeding without a contract and allowing annexation with good faith of Mr. Reeves and determining an easement at a later date when adequate information is known by the town. “There is a risk,” said Dewey, “but there is a risk either way.” He said that Reeves had stated recently that he was willing to work out an easement agreement when the town knows what they might need. Council President Bob Michalson said, “I fully believe that annexation should not go forward without something in writing, something in a contract.” He said it was the third time that it has come forward and they have asked for a contract… We tabled this for a contract but I guess we still don’t have one.” Mayor Dewey said that the town could do a contract, but that it wouldn’t hold any weight in court. Town attorney Scott Owens, who was present at the meeting, said he agreed. “There is no specificity of what we are contracting for,” said Scott. “Not knowing the location of the easement, I could put together a contract but I don’t know that it would do any good when we decide a year or so from now what we want to do and where. But Mr. Reeves could always say he didn’t agree with that.” Michalson said, “I think that there should be something rather than a handshake and good faith.” Councilor Dempsey Vick made a motion to “reject the idea of a contract before annexation.” A couple of members of the public expressed concerns about potential traffic problems and overburdening of the town’s water system if the property is annexed. Councilors Vick and Jaime Devlin voted to reject the requirement of a contract before considering annexation. Councilors Robin Holcomb and Michalson voted

against. They wanted a contract prior to annexing. Mayor Dewey broke the tie and rejected the need for a contract. This opened the way for considering the annexation request. The proposed zoning on the property is C-2 and Reeves stated in the application that his plans are to build up to two homes on the property, as well as a possible building to house his home-based contracting business. He states his desire for municipal water and sewer services on the property and in exchange for annexation will provide an easement for the Town’s future well field infrastructure. Dewey told the council members that they had options in considering the zone designation. They could place the C-2 zoning on the area as described in the town’s zoning ordinance or they could pass an “interim” zone with specific conditions of their own making. They could also include R-1 or R-2 zoning in the area. He said the adjoining land was zoned R-1 with some conditional uses. Michalson said it should go before the Planning and Zoning Board for a recommendation and Mayor Dewey noted that it already had and the board had recommended the C-2 zoning. Vick moved to annex the property under interim C-2 zoning with conditions. When asked about his business and his specific intentions for using the property, Reeves said he was a “small, residential custom home builder with only three employees.” He said the employees do not generally show up at his home but instead show up at work sites. He said he does plan on building a shop, but that it will look like an old barn. He said he used reclaimed materials in his custom home business and it would stand as “a showpiece for what we do.” He said the business owns two excavators and a dump truck but does not do commercial work, only residential. Public Works Director George Thomas expressed concerns about the number of homes being proposed and what looks like an ongoing gravel operation on the property. Reeves clarified that the piles of dirt were left by the previous owner and that he was taking them down. He said he was screening the topsoil from the piles for his own use. Councilor Vick said he wanted to approve an interim C-2 zone with the condition that there would be only one residence. The motion failed 3-1, however, as Vick was the only one to vote in favor of it. The mayor then asked the council for some direction. He asked if it meant that the application was closed and there would be no annexation, “or would you still consider the application if your concerns and some conditions were met?” Councilor Devlin said, “I think some homework still needs to be done. I don’t want to prevent you from building your home. But we need some information and some direction to make an informed decision.” Mayor Dewey said that he

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

would try and get some answers to their questions and address their concerns about the annexation request at their next meeting scheduled Thursday, June 11 at the North Valley Library community room. The Council approved an interlocal agreement between the Town of Stevensville Fire Department and the Stevensville Rural Fire District (SRFD) and a lease agreement which entails leasing the existing fire hall building to the SRFD and then leasing half the building back for use by the town’s fire department. The lease is for five years. The interlocal agreement includes the joint operation of a Quick Response Unit (QRU) for EMS emergencies. The Town of Stevensville provides and maintains the primary QRU response vehicle, and both organizations share in the cost of supplies and portable equipment. The Town allows the use of the fire hydrant system by SRFD and provides water at no charge. Response protocols and responsibilities for each other’s agencies are outlined in the agreement and it also allows for cooperative purchasing and use of supplies and equipment. Having received a petition from the Stevensville School District, the Council vacated the existing right of way on Phillips Street and in a separate action authorized a new easement for the road to accommodate the relocation of the road to a safer place. In the new location children will not have to cross the road to move from the school building onto the playground. The new roadway will still cross the railroad tracks at the same location as before. The council addressed ongoing concerns about the Mayor’s handling (or mishandling) of the town’s Internet Technology contract. The mayor has sought bids twice on the work and gotten only one response. The town is currently using that company on a month by month basis without a contract. Mayor Dewey was directed to advertise the contract once again for two weeks in three different newspapers. The council agreed to start the process of drafting a contract with HDR Engineering to conduct the 2020 Preliminary Engineering Report for the Water System Project. The council set the maximum number of police officers for the town at six full time employees. There are currently three officer positions filled (including the Chief) and one vacant position. By adopting a maximum of six, the town recognizes the need for another two officer positions and expresses the intention to meet those needs when the money becomes available. The adoption of the maximum was approved on a 3-1 vote with Michalson dissenting. The council also approved a resolution allowing all appointed and elected officials the opportunity to purchase health insurance through Montana Municipal Interlocal Authority at their own expense if they so choose.

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Bitterroot Star -- Page 3

Hospital lifts visitor restrictions Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital (MDMH) and its facilities have lifting the temporary visitor restrictions. These were imposed on March 14th; the date COVID19 pandemic reached Montana. “The temporary visitor restrictions have been in place for over 12 weeks,” said Troy Hanson, Chief Operating Officer of MDMH and one of three Incident Commanders. “Protecting patients and caregivers as we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic has been a top priority and a critical component of providing quality care in a safe environment.” “Together with our governor, community, Ravalli County Public Health and other entities, we have controlled and managed the spread of COVID-19 throughout the state and in the valley. These efforts allowed us to reopen all services on April 30th, and on May 5th, we began providing elective surger-

ies,” shared Hanson. “During the reopening phase, we continue to monitor and test the policies and procedures put in place to care for all patients. We are confident that our staff and facilities are safe and understand the importance of visitors to patients.” MDMH facilities will continue to maintain a safe environment, therefore, visitors are limited to two per patient. In addition, the screening process will continue for all entering MDMH facilities; this includes a temperature check and hand hygiene. Also, you must wear a mask and practice social distancing at all times. To conserve personal protective equipment, when entering the MDMH facilities, please bring a mask with you. If you are experiencing flu-like, respiratory symptoms, call the MDMH Respiratory Service Team at (406) 375-4762, they will assist you.

Open to Visitors and Patients: Monday through Friday • Hospital Main Entrance – 7:30 am to 5:00 pm • Bitterroot Physician Clinic – 7:45 am to 5:00 pm • Rehabilitation Center – 7 am to 6 pm • Sleep Center – 8 am to 4:30 pm • Surgery Center - Doors open at 6 am • Medical Clinics - Open during regular business hours 24 hours, seven days a week • Emergency Department You and your health matter. Don’t put your health on hold, schedule your appointment today. Visit MDMH.org for more information.

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Thank You for all Your Support! I look forward to your vote in November

VOTE

Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star

Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell

Opinion

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Guest Comment

Anti-racism – not being racist is not enough By Mary Fahnestock-Thomas, Hamilton

Nice people are not racist, right? And most of us think we’re nice people. So why all this ruckus? Because however nice individuals may be, large groups of people who want to make money and protect their interests tend to make policy -- like declaring that neighborhoods that are not all white are not good value, like not hiring people whose names are different from theirs because they’re hard to say and therefore somehow dubious, like limiting the number of non-white students admitted to a university each year, and so on. I’m finally beginning to realize that reparations are in order perhaps not primarily for slavery, which was longer ago, but for the many ways our primarily white and ostensi-

Calling out dishonest behavior

I thought I had become accustomed, to some extent, to council member’s lying. However, I found myself genuinely appalled at a recent bold faced lie by Council member Holcomb, after watching the May 21, 2020 Board of Adjustments meeting regarding a variance request by property owner, David Laursen. My comments contained in this letter can be verified by watching the Town’s video recording of that meeting, or listening to the audio, both of which are available on the Town’s website for review and inspection. I am also including approximate times that events I reference took place. Council member Holcomb, on the record and acting in her official capacity as a Board of Adjustment member, pronounced at this meeting that she had only had one e-mail from Bob Michalson related to Mr. Laursen’s variance but did not answer it. She said that her vote was based on her own impressions of the issue and what she had learned during the variance hearing (can be heard at approximately 1:05:55 into the meeting). Holcomb then voted “aye”, supporting approval of Mr. Laursen’s request. She took this action knowing full well that the request did not meet the Town’s laws and regulations in a number of ways. And also that it was against the Town’s consultant’s advice, who had reviewed the request and recommended to the Board of Adjustments to deny the variance, providing solid reasons for the denial. Holcomb’s blatant lie was exposed only seconds later when Council member Devlin read into the record several e-mail correspondences between Holcomb, Michalson and Laursen. Council member Devlin explained the legal gravity of the behind-the-scenes interactions of Holcomb and Michalson and further explained that by not disclosing these interactions, they had placed the Town into a possible serious legal liability (approximately 1:06:47

bly Christian society has actively stood in the way of nonwhite progress and then blamed it on those very non-whites. We have basically held them down and brutalized them. Oh, not you, and not I -- all of us, all parties, because of the system we have supported for so long. So not being racist is not enough. It is too passive to make a difference. Change requires that we be anti-racist -- that we talk and read and learn what’s been going on for so long and finally commit to doing something about it, to using our own lives and resources to show that we do, in fact, believe that all human beings are created equal. That’s what our country is supposed to be about. Antiracism: look it up.

Letters

into the meeting). It was then and only then that Holcomb withdrew her vote and admitted that she had been in communication with Mr. Laursen for several months – which is totally different than her statement at approximately 1:05:55 – an out and out lie. She tried to justify her lie by saying Mr. Laursen wasn’t getting the assistance he needed from Town Hall (approximately 1:08:23 into the meeting). This in itself is appalling for several reasons. Why did she feel the need to lie? What were her motives to lie? Why was she involved in behind-the-scenes dealings about a request that was obviously against our zoning Codes? Why didn’t she disclose her behind-the-scenes communications until she was caught redhanded? Why did she turn a blind eye to the consultant’s report detailing how the request did not meet the Town’s zoning codes and regulations? What else is going on behind-the-scenes that we don’t know about, but should? People involved in Stevensville, whether you live within the town’s limits or in the 59870 zip code area, we have been quiet way too long and need to hold our elected and appointed representatives accountable for their actions. Lying on the record and supporting projects that are against the Town’s very own laws should not and cannot be tolerated. I urge everyone to start asking questions and take an active role in what is happening right under our noses. Susan Devlin Stevensville

More than a recall

What Dewey has failed to realize: He doesn’t understand why people vote. Think about how and why you vote. Do you like a certain candidate? Do you like the looks, the style, the remarks that hit home? Do you champion the same things? While the recall effort is true and legitimate, it is not the only reason to remove him from office. Dewey has disrespected his base. He has used a heavy hand

Bitterroot Star

Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com

Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta TheBitterroot Bitterroot Star Star isispublished published weekly weekly at 115 W. 3rd, Street, Suite 108, The at 115 W. 3rd Suite 108, Stevensville,Montana. Montana.Subscriptions Subscriptions are are$40 $50 per per year year in in Ravalli RavalliCounty, Stevensville, County, $60 per out of and county, per year out of state. $50 per year out year of county, $60and out $70 of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.

Member Montana Montana Newspaper Association Member Association Member Bitterroot Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Member Commerce Member Stevensville Hamilton Downtown Association Member Main Street Association Member Downtown Association Member Hamilton Stevensville Civic Club

when dealing with the citizens of Stevensville. His wish to have total control of the populace has encouraged a certain amount of dislike and even hatred among Stevi residents. They have been dismissed and ignored. Their issues, if not Dewey’s, are brushed aside. There is no compassion, no empathy, no other view other than Dewey’s. What Stevensville, perhaps, needs and wants is an end to the contempt with which they are treated. Stevensville is tired of the “my way or the highway” attitude at town hall. Imagine the word courteous and the last time you could say you were treated that way by Dewey. Were you ever left with the feeling that you were heard? Did you feel that your issue was important? To those of you who might support this person: have you ever been to town hall and talked to Dewey? Did you have an issue that was important to you? Did he treat you with the respect you deserved? Have you attended council meetings? Did you speak up and try to resolve a problem? If you still support him, then talk to those that have been saddened by Dewey’s disregard for them. Discuss why a petition signer felt it necessary to do so. Do not brush hundreds of fellow citizens’ wishes aside. Do not get caught up in the anger. This does not have to separate us but should bring us together. Leanna Rodabaugh Stevensville

Listen for yourself The May 21, 2020 Board of Adjustment meeting in Stevensville was quite an eye opener. I have been loosely following the drama and angst the Stevensville Town Council seems to generate. Like many folks in Stevensville, I knew there were some problems between some of the town council members and Mayor Dewey. Despairing that our little town might not be the epitome of what’s right about “Small Town America”, I often rolled my eyes, shook my head and went on about my business.

I believed that most council members had our best interest at heart and took their oath of office seriously. After hearing the audio of that meeting my thoughts have changed, as will yours if you take the time to listen. The first issue has to do with following the Montana Municipal Officials Handbook (Third Edition) guidelines. Of particular interest that night was the following section on inappropriate communication: 2.415 Ex Parte Communication by Council Members “Finally, and upon advice of the city attorney, council members should be particularly sensitive to the potential for ex parte communication that might flaw their quasi-judicial decision. An example of improper ex parte communication would be any discussion outside of the formal public hearing before the commission or council’s final decision has been made, that might occur between a member of the council and a proponent or opponent of a developer’s pending land use application. Any such ex parte communication might well be used by an applicant, or by those who might oppose the application, as legal justification to set aside the quasi-judicial decision of the governing body. This will almost certainly be an expensive mistake for a council member to make.” What I understand this to mean is that council members and the mayor are obligated to not have improper communication with anyone involved in a land-use application prior to any decisions being voted on by the Council or the Board of Adjustment. It was revealed that Councilmembers Michalson (Ward 2) and Holcomb (Ward 1) have been having informal email communications with the land-use applicant for months prior to this meeting. Not only were Councilmember Michalson’s emails unethical, they were also unprofessional. In one he calls the mayor “cuckoo” and encourages the landowner to “start building” before the vote on landuse had even occurred. Councilmember Holcomb

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went a step further by lying to the entire assembly prior to her vote. Just before her vote Councilmember Holcomb stated, “Yes, he (Councilmember Michalson) did send me an email, I did not respond to it, there was no other conversation. So how I am voting tonight is what I’ve heard at this meeting so that I am voting yes.” It was revealed that Councilmember Holcomb had indeed been corresponding with the land owner for several months, when she had just stated to the assembly she had no other input to cloud her vote. She quickly jumped to blame the mayor for her indiscretions, claiming that the landowner “could not get any information from the mayor.” Both councilmembers had originally voted “yes” in favor of the landowner. Once their digressions were obvious, they chose to rescind the yes votes and to vote no instead. What is wrong with this picture? We have two councilmembers who seem to have taken the running of the city into their own hands using their own plans. Councilmember Holcomb flat out lied to the entire community, and then didn’t have the courage to take responsibility for the lie once she was caught in it. I don’t know about you, but I know that I don’t want councilmembers who think it is acceptable to skirt the rules (putting the town at risk for lawsuits) or ones who have trouble telling the truth. I would suggest you to listen to the audio tape yourself (discussion starts near the 1-hour mark) and make up your own mind. If you aren’t appalled, you aren’t paying attention. Cathy Scholtens Stevensville

Remain the same

These are times that try men’s hearts (and women’s too). Are we really prepared to throw away our Constitution and try to build a Socialist Society? The first step to this process is to take away all guns from private citizens; but just as bad it includes taking over the education of our children. History would forever change; truth would be gone. I am reminded of the line in the Beatles song “Revolution”: “you say you want to change the constitution – well, we would like to change your head.” Also, the book by George Orwell, “Animal Farm”; it is a must read – for proponents of the new left would create chaos, not peace. Republicans want to keep our country entirely run by the constitution. How can that be bad and where is the ‘hate’ for that coming from? We must remain “One country under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” Cherie Carlson Stevensville

Daines fights for indigenous people

Senator Steve Daines is a man of diligent, honest work and keeping to his word. These qualities are evident in the keen attention he pays to the needs of Montana’s Native American population. Daines’ support for Native American communities earned him the recognition of the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians. Little Shell had long fought for federal recognition without success, until the cause was championed by Senator Daines in Congress. After the introduction of many similar measures in bills in Congress, Daines finally helped win federal recognition of Little Shell in the summer of 2019. Daines has also been a crucial voice to raise awareness and inspire action to fight the epidemic of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. He has introduced resolutions to raise public awareness on this crisis, and has bolstered resources to fight it by passing the SURVIVE Act and the Tribal Law and Order Reauthorization and Amendments Act. Daines represents all Montanans, and I am happy to be supporting him this November. Hailey Peabody Corvallis

The people have spoken

Montana voters left no question which direction they want our state to go in 2020. This Primary Election was the beginning of the great “Conservative Comeback.” Llew Jones (R-Conrad) and the so-called “Conservative Solutions Caucus” were the biggest losers Tuesday night. Two of Jones’ top three deputies, Nancy Ballance (R-Hamilton) and Eric Moore (R-Miles City), went down by unfathomable margins many never saw coming. He also lost freshman Representative Joel Krautter (R-Sidney) who voted with Democrats 213 times. Furthermore, nearly all the primary challengers that incumbent conservatives faced were defeated. Across Montana, we saw many Republicans, who joined with Democrats to pass hundreds of bills that grew government and raised taxes, go down in double digit losses. With this outcome, three other entities were put on notice about how this next legislative session will go: our next governor; those who support the CSKT Water Compact; and the Montana Chamber of Commerce. The Montana Chamber poured a truckload of money into Nancy Ballance, who lost to a conservative firebrand, Representative Theresa Manzella (R-Hamilton), by more than 25%. During the 2019 legislative session, Ballance supported countless anti-business bills, including job killing taxes and larger government, like the 33% Bed Tax increase and Medicaid Expansion. With the fall of other members of Llew Jones’ team, we also saw the defeat of some who support the disastrous CSKT Water Compact which illegally takes water rights from Montanans in 2/3 of the State and may not hold up in the United States Supreme Court. Conservatives will be in a position to defeat legislation that would raise taxes and grow government. The results of the Republican Primary also serve as a warning to Solutions Caucus members who survived their primaries. The Republican Party has taken an appropriate turn back toward the party’s core principles of limited, effective government, low taxes, and individual responsibility. It’s now up to the next Senate President and Speaker of the House to place conservatives at the helm of key committees such as House Appropriations and Senate Finance & Claims. We can also be encouraged by the wave of young conservatives on the ballot. Representative Casey Knudsen (R-Malta) won his primary in a landslide. Young conservatives like him, Representative Seth Berglee (R-Joliet), and Senator Kenneth Bogner (R-Miles City) could be joined next session by House candidates Braxton Mitchell (R-Columbia Falls), Mallerie Stromswold (R-Billings), and Katie Zolnikov (R-Billings) – all under the age of 25. This is not to say that there’s no place for independent thinking within the Republican Party. We are, and have always been, the party of ideas – and that’s something to be proud of. In the Senate, Duane Ankney (R-Colstrip) and Steve Fitzpatrick (R-Great Falls) vote their districts and are known for hard work on important legislation - including strong pro-life and pro-business bills. As Republicans move back to our core principles, Montana citizens are the beneficiaries of the sound, fiscal leadership they deserve and desire. Randy Pinocci, Public Service Commissioner, Dist. 1 Brad Tschida, House Majority Leader

Daines fights for veterans

Unfortunately, there is a deep history of veterans being neglected by the people they served, both in the United States and abroad. In Montana, 1 out of every 10 residents is an individual who has sacrificed a part of their life for their country by serving in the U.S. Military, among them myself. For this reason, Senator Steve Daines should represent us in the Senate. From his first days in the

Calendar

Hamilton Senior Center meals

Hamilton Senior Center is preparing meals for take out on the following schedule: Monday, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. call in to order meals for the week. Thursday, pick up between 12 noon and 1 p.m. For orders and info: 3635181.

AA meetings

Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.

Al-Anon

Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the small dining room at the Living Centre, 57 Main Street. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 239-0878.

Narcotics Anon

Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).

Free Indeed

Free Indeed is a faith-based addiction support group. Contact Donald Layman at 203-8579 or Pastor Jim Landis at 642-9849.

Gamblers Anon

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

WIC clinics

nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. Income guidelines are 1-$23,107; 2- $31,284; 3-$39,461; 4-$47,638; 5-$55,815. For each additional family member add $8,177. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Facebook; www. facebook.com/Ravalli-CountyWIC.

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.

Senior shuttle

The BitterRoot Bus will be running a 6:30 a.m. Shuttle for Seniors and people with compromised immune systems on Tuesdays and Thursdays until further notice. This bus will be for seniors to get to Albertsons for 7 to 9 a.m. senior shopping. Call the BitterRoot Bus at 363-7484 to schedule your ride. You must call in advance!

Ravalli County WIC is a

Senate, Daines has been a strong advocate for a critical component of service to veterans, that being healthcare. In 2015, he partnered with a number of his colleagues to introduce the Veterans Access to Community Care Act, working to improve the availability of care for veterans living great distances from a VA medical center by expanding coverage to local healthcare facilities. Daines has since remained a champion of veteran’s care, working across party lines to secure appropriate healthcare access for Blue Water Navy Vietnam veterans in 2019. In addition to these tangible victories for American veterans, Daines has been diligent in ensuring that Montana’s heroes will not be forgotten, routinely doing his part to honor these heroes, who fell in service of the United States Remembering and caring for the veterans of the United States Military is a critical task, particularly in Montana. Senator Daines’ consistently positive track record on this issue makes him the clear choice, especially for veterans. Jeffrey Austin Victor

Tired of lies about racism

I’m tired of being lied to by the media, academics, Hollywood celebrities, professional athletes, and Democratic politicians who say we live in a country of widespread “systemic racism.” To claim that one bad act by a bad cop is a symptom of a pervasive nationwide problem is absolutely wrong. Although a black person was 2.45 times more likely than a white person to be shot and killed by police in 2015, this figure is well within what would be expected given racial differences in crime rates and likelihood to resist arrest. From 2005 to 2014, blacks accounted for 40 percent of police

killings. Since blacks are approximately 13 percent of the population, that means they were 4.46 times more likely than non-blacks to kill a police officer. During that same period, police killings of blacks accounted for about 4 percent of homicides of blacks. Police killings of unarmed blacks accounted for approximately 0.6 percent of homicides of blacks. From 1980 to 2008, 93 percent of black homicide victims were killed by other blacks. Police shootings of unarmed blacks is a very small problem compared to black-on-black murder within the black community. Facts matter. See Heather MacDonald’s “The War on Cops” and Taleeb Starkes’s “Black Lies Matter.” And where is the evidence of “systemic racism” in Minneapolis or even in Minnesota? Minneapolis is an overwhelmingly progressive city that has been led by successive Democratic mayors for decades — mayors that, under the city’s charter, have total power over the police department. The current mayor is a far-left Democrat. The City Council is Democratic. Minneapolis Congresswoman Ilhan Omar is one of the most liberal Democrats in Congress. Minnesota is a Democratic state led by a Democratic governor. Like Omar, the state’s Democratic attorney general is a black Muslim. Both US Senators are liberal Democrats. Minnesota has not voted Republican for president since 1972. Are we expected to believe that this citadel of liberalism is a bastion of “white supremacy”? The entire “woke” Left and their allies are liars. They lie because they hate this country and want to destroy it. They actively cheer for the destruction caused by antifa, BLM, and the mob, or make excuses for it. Antifa, the anarchist-communist terrorist group, left this graffiti on a wall

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Stevensville •• 777-0028 360-2661 203Main MainSt.• Stevensville

Worship at 12:0011p.m. Sunday Worship AM In this Church there shall be no outcasts. In this Church there shall be no outcasts.

Wednesday Farmers Market

A farmers market is held every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. starting June 3rd at 111 s. 4th Street in Hamilton.

Bike, Walk, Roll

2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN. Get motivated to move this summer with a chance to win prizes with the 2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN virtual health incentive program by MSU Extension in Ravalli County. From June 1-August 31, 2020, log electronically all of the times you engage in physical activity - each activity is eligible for a entry into the prize raffle. The program is free and open to residents of Ravalli County over the age of 18. Learn more by calling the MSU Extension Office at 375-6611 or visiting online at http://ravalli.msuextension.org/healthandwellness.html

to promote early literacy skills in the very young child. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.

Bike, Walk, Roll

2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN. Get motivated to move this summer with a chance to win prizes with the 2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN virtual health incentive program by MSU Extension in Ravalli County. From June 1-August 31, 2020, log electronically all of the times you engage in physical activity - each activity is eligible for a entry into the prize raffle. The program is free and open to residents of Ravalli County over the age of 18. Learn more by calling the MSU Extension Office at 375-6611 or visiting online at http://ravalli.msuextension.org/healthandwellness.html

Story Time

Are you desperately missing your Library Story Times? Fret no more- you can join Annika from North Valley Public Library for Story Time Live Online! on Wednesdays in June at 10:3010:45 a.m. for this North Valley Public Library online program. Come enjoy fun stories, a quick early literacy activity, and a creative craft idea. Visit the website to register for this event. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.

is suitable for ages 5-18. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.

WiFi hotspots at library

Do you need internet at your house to look for a job, apply for unemployment or a fishing license, fill out the 2020 Census? North Valley Library now has internet hotspots to check out. A hotspot is a small box that brings a WiFi signal into your home so you can use the internet. Hotspots can be checked out for seven days only. The overdue charge for each day is $1.00. There must be a cell tower within range. Your computer, tablet, or smart phone must be WiFi compatible. Hotspots are filtered for content. Please conserve data usage for the next patron. Director Denise Ard says, “Hotspots are easy to use and we have included simple instructions to help you get connected. We are happy to be able to offer hotspots to our patrons that do not have internet at home.” NVPL can only check out hotspots to its card holders but other libraries will have hotspots as well, thanks to the Montana State Library. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For a list of current library services check the website at northvalleylibrary.org.

Model railroad Rubber Duck display cancelled The Bitterroot Valley Model Reading Club and Railroad Club (BVMRR) will not Book Bingo for be running trains on First Fridays until further notice because of curKids & Teens rent COVID-19 health concerns. It Spend the summer reading and win fabulous prizes from June 8-August 10! Register for Rubber Duck Reading Club and Book Bingo on the Library’s website or call the Library. Rubber Duck Reading Club and Book Bingo materials will be available for curbside pickup starting on Monday, June 1, just call! Or you can print materials on the Library’s website. The Rubber Duck Reading Club is suitable for ages 0-4 and Book Bingo

is too difficult to properly monitor visitor spacing in the layout site and have younger visitors not handle areas around the trains. The club hopes to start up again after Labor Day if the situation permits.

in Minneapolis: “When our turn comes, we will make no excuses for the terror.” See Rod Dreher, “Weimar Minneapolis.” Henry Fowler Stevensville

about this wonderful resource. To register your child or donate online, go to imaginationlibraryravallicounty.com. Syble Soloman Stevensville

Mitchell spot on

Gianforte doesn’t care

Instead of looking out for Montanans, Greg Gianforte spent his time in D.C. looking out for no one except himself. Last year, Congress held a crucial vote to fund the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), our nation’s foremost public health agency upon which all Americans now rely. But Greg Gianforte had other plans – he skipped the vote so he could fly to Montana on Air Force 2 and announce his campaign for governor. Gianforte’s truant tendencies remained during the pandemic. On February 26 – just one day after the CDC warned of an almost certain COVID-19 outbreak – Gianforte got up and left an Energy and Commerce Committee hearing about coronavirus after just 20 minutes, right as Dr. Anthony Fauci, Secretary of Health and Human Services Alex Azar and other top public health officials were set to begin testifying.

Mother Goose Sings & Swings

Tune in to North Valley Public Library’s Facebook Live on Mondays, June 8, 15, 22, & 29 at 10:30 a.m. for interactive songs and rhymes, a story, and maybe even some dancing! Mother Goose Sings and Swings is planned for babies to 3 years of age, accompanied by an adult and is designed

Dear Editor, Mr. Roger Mitchell really hit the nail on the head in his letter to the editor in your May 27, 2020 issue with regard to the “heavyhanded official action taken in response to the COVID virus. His questions regarding the fallout are very real, and his suggestions as to “better ways” to have handled our response to the pandemic are pure common sense. Hear, hear! Too bad Mr. Mitchell is not our governor. Teresa Larsen Victor

Free books for young children

Good news! Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library is now in Ravalli County! Dolly’s dream was to bring the love of reading to all children and encourage them to use their imagination. To do this, her program provides free books to all children once a month from birth to their 5th birthday. Books that are appropriate for the child’s age are mailed to the child and delivered to their homes. The books are a mix of classics, like Dolly’s favorite, The Little Engine that Could, to more recently published books that were chosen by child experts. There is no cost to the family! Sapphire Community Health is our partner, First Security Bank is our primary funder and other local businesses, organizations and individuals have generously donated to make this possible. We encourage daycare centers, churches and other programs that serve families with young children to let parents know

The coronavirus crisis has called home health care workers and other Caregivers to the front lines of the battle to defeat COVID-19. Caregivers are now being universally recognized as essential workers – we always have been and we always will be. I am so proud of our SEIU membership, who are caring for people all across our state, including in our reservation communities. They’re caring for people who typically cannot care for themselves, in youth and adult mental health programs, group homes, in nursing homes and in clients’ homes. Many of our members can’t afford health care themselves, even while they’re delivering it to others. As it is for so many Montanans, access to quality and affordable health care is a life and death issue for our members and their clients and residents. Montanans depend on our elected officials to protect our health care, especially during a public health emergency. So when Greg Gianforte neglects his congressional duties, skipping key testimony and blowing off critical votes on health care, Greg Gianforte proves how little he values Caregivers and the Montanans for whom we care. In 2017, Montanans sent Greg Gianforte to Washington D.C. for one reason – to represent the interests of Montanans in Congress. How can Greg Gianforte represent us when he’s missed more votes than 93% of Congress? Simply put, he’s abandoned our state.

St. Mary’s Mission, Museum open Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum is open for the 2020 season. COVID-19 health

By Allen B. Gates Stevensville

Bitterroot Star -- Page 5 guidelines for the safety of the staff and the public are in place. You’re invited to visit the Mission for a guided tour of the historic buildings. The museum and art gallery in the Visitor Center are free for you to browse. A featured exhibit is an antique toy display. The gift shop has many new Made in Montana gift items. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 to 3 with the last tour at 2 p.m. Call 777-5734 for information.

Free summer meal program

St. Mary’s Mission Parish announces the sponsorship of the Simplified Summer Food Program for children. Meals will be made available at no charge to attending children 18 years of age and younger who have enrolled in the programs. Children who are members of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance units, or households receiving Food Distribution Programs on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) benefits are automatically eligible to receive free meal benefits at eligible program sites (enrolled summer programs or residential summer camps). Other children from families whose income is at or below the levels in the following table are also eligible for free meal benefits if enrolled in the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) program at Stevensville and Victor schools through the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be distributed at the following location: • St. Mary’s Mission Parish Family Center • June 8 through August 14 • Meals can be picked up between 10:00 and 11:00 am at the side entrance of the Family Center Contact St. Mary’s Parish Office for more information at: (406) 777-5257. St. Mary’s Mission Parish also supports the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) programs in Stevensville and Victor by providing sack lunches to the enrolled children continued on next page Greg Gianforte only sits on one committee in Congress! Did Gianforte have more pressing business than listening to our nation’s top expert testify about the threat posed by COVID-19 to Montanans’ health and economic stability? Montanans deserve to know why Greg Gianforte left such an important hearing just as it was beginning. Home health care workers and other Caregivers don’t have the luxury of blowing off work whenever they feel like it, and neither should our elected leaders. “No Show” Greg Gianforte couldn’t be bothered to show up for Montanans when it counted – this November, Montanans will return the favor. Jacquie Helt, State Director Service Employees International Union Local 775, representing 45,000 Caregivers in WA & MT

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Page 6 -- Bitterroot Star

Calendar continued

while they are in session.

Child care help available

Are you earning less right now due to reduced work hours? If you were previously over income, you may now qualify for child care assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship. We encourage you to call us today to find out if you are eligible! Eligibility is for 12 months, so if you qualify now, you will be eligible for the whole year, even if your hours increase again. Contact Child Care Resources today to see if you qualify at 406728-6446 or go to childcareresources.org

Bitterroot seed collection

Johnny “Bitterroot” Stroud need help to collect bitterroot seeds this season. The plants bloom the first three weeks of June. Seeds get harvested three weeks after they bloom. John will teach anyone interested how to do this. Call 880-8286 or 777-5054. John doesn’t sell these seeds; he gives them away in order to make sure the bitterroot plant will not become extinct.

Wed, June 10 BRHA board meeting

The Bitter Root Humane Association will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, June 10 at 5 p.m. in the meeting room at Bouilla, 111 S. Third Street, Hamilton. The public is invited to attend.

Saturday, June 13 Bitter Root Day

The 40th Annual Bitter Root Day Festival – A Cultural Heritage Event, will be held Saturday, June 13 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ravalli County Museum, 205 Bedford, Hamilton. Come to the museum and help create a 30- foot-long community mural (individual art materials will be provided), shop at vendors, bring your kids to free activities, purchase some bitterroot flowers, and see the exhibit on Salish culture! For more information call the museum at (406) 363-3338.

Monday, June 15

Mother Goose Sings & Swings Live Online!

Tune in to North Valley Public Library’s Facebook Live on Mondays, June 15, 22, & 29 at 10:30 a.m. for interactive songs and rhymes, a story, and maybe even some dancing! Mother Goose Sings and Swings is planned for babies to 3 years of age, accompanied by an adult and is designed to promote early literacy skills in the very young child. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.

Registered Voters - Total 31,029 Ballots Cast – Total 18,052 Ballots Cast - DEMOCRATIC PARTY 5,562 Ballots Cast - REPUBLICAN PARTY 12,440 Ballots Cast - GREEN PARTY 50 Voter Turnout – Total 58.18%

REP FOR STATE SENATOR DISTRICT 44 Vote For 1

Author Reading with the Library

Authors are back at the library, virtually for now. Author Danielle Lincoln Hanna will give a reading with North Valley Public Library on Monday, June 15 at 6 p.m. This event is online using a Zoom link. The event will include a reading from her books, the Mailboat Suspense Series; a Q&A session; and a coupon code for one of her books. The series features the famed US Mailboat of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, which delivers mail house-to-house along the shore. Fleet-footed mail jumpers must get the mail in the boxes and back on board. The catch? The boat never stops. Hanna’s fictional suspense series begins when the mail jumper misses the boat, lands in the lake, and finds a body at the end of a pier. The event is free and open to the public. Registration is required. Go to the library’s website, northvalleylibrary.org. On the home page click on the Calendar. Find the event on June 15, click it. A registration document will open. Add your details including email address. The Zoom link will be sent to your email address. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information about current offerings and events at the library check the website at northvalleylibrary.org.

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Vote For 1

Wed, June 17 RCEDA

The Ravalli County Economic Development Authority Finance Committee will meet Wednesday, June 17 at 2:15 p.m., followed by a Board meeting at 3 p.m. The meetings will take place at the RCEDA Conference Room located at 274 Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. Both meetings are open to the public.

Sapphire Summer Thursday, June 18 Camp Sapphire Early Learning Bike Yard Sale Center Summer Camp is now enrolling, ages 6-12. Begins June 15, hours: 7:30-5:30. Partnering with Best Beginnings scholarship program. Camp held at Stevensville United Methodist Church. Call 406-777-5443 or email sapphireelc@gmail.com for more info.

Ravalli County Primary Election Results

The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office will have a Bike Yard Sale on Thursday June 18 at 211 Kayne Road in Hamilton. The sale will run from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. All bikes will range in price between $5 and $25.

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Bitterroot Star -- Page 7

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Don’t put your health on hold. Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital

Safe. open. ReaDy. √ Visitors welcome √ In office and virtual visits √ Same-day appointments √ Extensive cleaning √ Separate Respiratory location √ Everyone is screened and wears a mask √ Social distancing in all areas √ Elective surgeries performed

For more information

Maplewood and Riverside Cemeteries in Stevensville have permanent flags and lights now, thanks to a donation by retired Montana State Patrolman Mike Rhodes, and the workforce of the Fort Owen (Stevensville) American Legion! Left to right: Ron Peeples, Chuck Burgmeier, Wayne Price, Dorsie Decker, Wendy and Dennis Lenahan, Bob Adams, and Commander Brad Smith. Cheryl Burgmeier photo.

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Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

Weed District continued

Ravalli County Weed District Noxious Weed Coordinator Kellieanne Morris and Education Coordinator Andrea Richie did much of the work remodeling the building. They refurbished old lumber to save on costs and at the same time made an attractive entrance and working space.

to store chemicals that is separate from the space used by administration and the public. Morris said the location was better in a lot of ways. It is much more centrally located than the shop on Airport Road near Stevensville making it easier on the road crew to service the entire valley. “I’m so thankful that the commissioners saw our need and helped do something about it,” said Morris. She said they hoped to hold an open house celebration when COVID-19 related restrictions are lifted, maybe some time in July.

The Ravalli County Weed District has moved from its old location on Airport Road north of Stevensville into newly remodeled headquarters at the old Victor Firehouse.

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Life is getting easier at the Ravalli County Weed District and Bio-control Program. Employees Tom Burge, John Harris and Joey Bryan are really excited about the new workplace. Every truck in the fleet has its own parking bay. In the old location they often had to pull one vehicle out to get to the one they wanted and then re-park the first one. The chemicals now have their own storage area and are not mixed with administrative and public areas of the building like before. Right: The bathroom was also furnished “Montana style” using an antique dresser with a custom fitted water pail for a sink. Michael Howell photos.

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Water Forum continued

presented on a specific natural resource topic. The Water Forum is grateful for the ongoing partnerships with Bitterroot National Forest, B.E.A.R., Bitterroot Valley FFA, and Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks who provided a variety of presentations. Through these lessons, students learned about the importance of irrigation, snowpack, Montana native fish, and the Bitterroot watershed. Over 185 students participated in classroom programs this year. Typically, the end of the Earth Stewardship Program features a hands-on outdoor field trip to get students out of the classroom and exploring nature. By adapting the program, students were still able to learn virtually about some of the topics that would have been covered in the field. Community educators joined the Bitter Root Water Forum and filmed each of their segments indi-

Wednesday, June 10, 2020 vidually at Bass Creek Recreation Area. A short educational lesson and worksheet were created along with each video for students to work through. Students were able to learn from Leslie Nyce with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks about Montana native fish, who walked them through an educational game they could play at home. They also heard from previous Water Forum board president Dave Schultz on stream flow, the Bitterroot National Forest on Fire Ecology, and Grace Pierstorff, the Big Sky Watershed Corps member for the Water Forum on Macroinvertebrates. One student responded that “it was cool learning about this stuff,” after completing the virtual field trip, and another said “I liked the videos and how detailed they got about each concept”. The Bitter Root Water Forum hopes that the online version encourages youth to get out in nature, and take some of the skills and lessons from the videos into their daily

lives. All of the video lessons help connect youth to the watershed, and to the important role that water plays in a community. The Water Forum’s Big Sky Watershed Corps (BSWC) member, Grace, coordinates the education program throughout the year with the four local schools. She organizes the community educators to go into the classrooms each month, and taught the students about the Bitterroot Watershed in February. The BSWC is an AmeriCorps program in partnership between the Montana Watershed Coordination Council, the Soil and Water Conservation Districts of Montana, and the Montana Conservation Corps. The program assists Montana’s watershed communities to make a measurable difference in local conservation efforts while strengthening the experience of young professionals. There are 35 BSWC members spread throughout the state of Montana for 2020. The Water Forum’s BSWC member position is funded in part by the Montana Watershed Coordination Council and Bitterroot

Bitterroot Star -- Page 9

Bitterroot National Forest staff Stephen Brown, Matthew Young, Rebecca Fry, Anna Bateson and Warren Applehans.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Please Remember to Vote in November!

Grace Pierstorff filming Montana Native Fish station with Leslie Nyce.

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Page 10--Bitterroot Star

Codling moth control spray window opens June 10th By Patrick Mangan, Ravalli County Extension Agent

Time for apple and pear orchardists, both backyard hobbyists and larger commercial growers to begin preparations for the application of control sprays for codling moth in apples and pears. Models combining temperature data and the lifecycle development of the codling moth predict the first generation hatch of larvae will begin on June 10th for this year. Every spring, orchardists and researchers hang pheromone traps in their apple trees to attract the emerging adults as they mate and lay eggs. The presence of the first adults in the traps is documented as “the biofix,” and starts the temperature based model. As the spring progresses, the eggs develop into larvae. The development time for the larvae is impacted by the ambient air temperature. A computer model calculates when the larvae will begin to hatch based off of temperature data gathered at weather monitoring stations. The timing of spray applications while the larvae are hatching is important to the control. For contact types of sprays to be successful, they must be applied when the larvae are present and outside of the apples. If sprays are applied too early, then they may lose viability for control before the hatch is over, requiring additional applications. If the spray application is too late, then larvae have already burrowed into the apples and are out of reach of the control mechanism. There are a host of spray control options for codling moth larvae. Organically derived sprays include the active ingredient Spinosad or pyrethrin. Conventional insecticide options include malathion, carbaryl, or permethrin. It is important to read and follow all directions found on the label of

the product you choose and understand the persistence and viability of the spray. Many products will require multiple applications during the hatching period to get the desired amount of control on codling moth and wormy apples. Read the label completely and understand the interval for reapplication to ensure the best control of codling moths and wormy apples. Codling moths will continue to hatch for several weeks, and even complete a second lifecycle in the hot summer months, so the application of codling moth control insecticide spray is not a one-time event. Different control options have different periods of activity and persistence in the environment, and should be reapplied according to label and an understanding of how long that product will continue to control codling moth larvae. It is important to note that the dates of codling moth and the larval hatch can vary from place to place in mountain environments like the Bitterroot valley up to a month. The development of the eggs and larvae depend on the air temperature. The models we use draw data from weather stations in Stevensville and Corvallis. But colder areas may have delayed development of the larvae and the flowering of the trees. It is very important to note that we should

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not spray trees that are flowering, which can lead to injury to our pollinator populations. Individuals can search for sign of codling moth larvae on their own fruit. Inspect fruit often for the first sign of “stings,” or entry sites on fruit from the first codling moths. Stings are very small reddish-brown piles of frass, about 1/16th of an inch in diameter. You might be able to see the tiny entry hole where the larvae entered the apple if you scrap away the frass. There are numerous integrated pest management strategies that can be employed to aid in the management and reduction of codling moths. Removal of fallen apples each fall can help, as can strategic thinning of the fruit on the tree at clusters where they touch each other. Encouraging the presence of bats, predatory wasps, and some birds can also help. Wrapping the trunks of trees with corrugated cardboard can also intercept the pupating larvae, for eventual removal prior to the emergence of adults in the following spring. There are additional biologic controls including viral controls and pheromone lure traps for mating disruption that can be considered. The MSU Extension Office and MSU Western Agricultural Research Station work together closely to monitor for adult codling moths and the collection of weather and temperature data. The MSU Extension office in Hamilton coordinates an automated phone call and email as the beginning of the spray window arrives each spring. Call the office at 406-3756611 to be added to the list for future notifications.

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Bitterroot Star -- Page 11

High water means safe wading, smooth casting A friend of mine used to show up during the salmon fly hatch and high water every year and announce that he was going head-hunting, and ask if I wanted to join him. When I could, when demand for the flies I was cranking out of the vise eased up, we’d set off together to slowly walk the banks of the river, well downstream from the commotion of the main hatch, and look for

Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan the occasional rises of big fish. We chose our targets. If you watched, patiently, there were plenty of big trout that were still on the lookout for the remaining salmonflies that plopped into the water from overhanging willows, or collapsed helplessly from flight and landed in the river. Thed big fish would just lie there, waiting, and lazily pounce on each one. When you hit it right, they were surprisingly easy to catch. All you had to do was measure your approach carefully, step by step, staying hidden and not making any disturbance, and make a slow deliberate cast that was on target. Succeed in that and you’d usually get a take. From there on it was an exciting game with the odds in our favor: Size six hook and 3X leader against a three to five pound rainbow or brown that fought well but was out-muscled by what we could brought against it. We caught a lot of big fish that way – maybe five or six a day between us, on a good day, with plenty of time between each fish and the next, but well worth the time spent even on the days we failed to score or only hit a fish or two in that range. Safe wading and fish-catching One key to our success was wading without pushing a wake or kicking a rock loose along the bottom. Mustn’t crunch the gravel while walking, either. We didn’t wade deep – and waded only when we couldn’t get the cast in from an approach on a gravel bar that was barely

exposed as the high water of runoff receded. There were some places, quite a few, in fact, that we had to forego. Even if you took a dangerous chance to get to where you could reach the fish, you still couldn’t get the cast in. The cast had to be near-perfect for any chance at all; perfect was better. Safe wading and fish-catching wading go together, especially early season when high water is ripping through the main current lines. You want to stay away from those. It’s dangerous, and the fish aren’t there anyway. The trout, during that end of runoff when the water is receding but still high and dangerous, are crowded into the edges where it’s easy and safe for them to make a living. You fish there – and treat that edge water like a small mountain stream. The trout are wary, jittery, easily spooked and not accustomed to what is a temporary place to hold and feed. They’re vulnerable to predators – us – and react to our presence accordingly. Wading gear Safe wading begins with safe gear. A well-fitted and wellbuilt wading boot is essential. Spend as much for these underwater hiking boots with soles to match the challenge as you would for a wilderness trail hiking boot. Even though you may not put the same number of miles on them, the requirements for comfort, ankle support, and traction are equally if not more important. Make sure they fit. If you don’t have waders and intend to buy them, try the boots on over two cushy and bulky pairs of sox. When you’re in your waders, pare down to one pair of sox. When wading wet, that is, without waders, bulk up with extra sox. Most of us leave the waders home during midsummer when a knee-deep dip in cool water is refreshing and sweating up a selfimposed steam bath in a pair of waders seems like an unpleasant idea. Wading boots have either felt or Vibram-like soles that can be studded. Wearing that latter combination in your friend’s raft won’t get you an invitation for future floats. Better to wear felts, or maybe a wading sandal with a combination felt and hard rubber cleated sole. Felt soles are on their way out – but still provide the best all-around traction on most stream bottoms. The problem with felt is that it carries aquatic microorganisms from one body of water to another that shouldn’t be transported for the sake of the fisheries.

Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS 1. South by east 4. Irrigation ditches 10. Compose 11. Gas 12. Fled 13. Llama’s cousin 14. Keenness 16. Clairvoyance 17. Not that 18. Georgia (abbr.) 20. Teacher’s assistant, for short 22. Platter 26. American Cancer Society (abbr.) 29. Fake 31. Blank 33. Spark 34. Pencil marking remover 35. Football assoc. 36. Rill 37. East southeast

DOWN 1. Jack __ 2. Water’s edge 3. Boredom 4. Inlet 5. Chopping 6. New York City 7. Malaria 8. Microscope viewer 9. Metal fastener 15. Mountain Time 19. Flurry 21. Sleep disorder 23. Witless 24. Slaves 25. Ride 26. Brews 27. Wagon 28. Pock 30. Scathe 32. Avail

© Feature Exchange

I wear my felts when fishing at home, so to speak. When I go to other watersheds, I use my studded wading boots. If you’re going to buy waders, get the full chest-highs instead of waist-highs or hip boots. You can roll most chesthighs down top waist-high, and all hip boots are about an inch too short. You find that out when one fills and you’re swept down-

stream by a boot full of water. Better to wade shallow, and wade wet. Safe wading is fish-catching wading. Wade only as you must to get the cast in. Spooking fish by being too aggressive And for goodness sake – wear a belt with your chesthighs, and keep it snug around your midriff or lower rib cage. Chest waders full of water are a death trap if you take a tumble. Safe wading is also fishcatching wading. All you need to do is change your angle of approach so you can get the cast in. More than that, early season, forget it. The smooth cast Now is the time to pay attention to your casting – and get it smoothed out before you fish. Practice is the key. My friend and I who caught so many big trout arly season didn’t do it with sloppy casts. If you have a hitch in your cast, the best way to remedy it is with a second pair of eyes on the ground in a controlled clinic. The best way to advance your casting skills, whether you are an old hand or a raw beginner, is with instruction from a qualified professional. If you’re interested, I’m offering casting instruction through the shop. Call 406-3634197 to learn more.

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Sports

Page 12--Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, June 10, 2020

By Jean Schurman Sports Editor

Corvallis’ Trexler boys cash in It wasn’t their rodeo but since the pandemic hit just about the time the spring high school and junior high rodeo season started, Cole and Cash Trexler were both afraid they wouldn’t have a last rodeo of the season. The fate of the Montana State Junior High Rodeo Finals and Montana State High School Rodeo Finals was unknown until three weeks ago when some of the restrictions for COVID-19 were eased. This allowed both Cash and Cole to compete in the final rodeos and then in their respective finals. Cash, an eighth grader, earned his way to the Junior High Finals by competing in the timed events. He went into the finals, that were held in Sidney two weeks ago, as the two-time junior boys break away state champion. He finished the season as the champion in that event once again. Cash roped his first calf in 3.83 seconds, his second in 3.75 seconds, and the final calf in 3.61. “I was a little nervous,” said Cash but I just wanted to be consistent,” he said. Cash recently attended a roping school put on by Miles City’s Haven Meged, the 2019 world champion tie down roper. Cash said the clinic really helped him, especially with the little things he needed to fix. Cash also placed third in goat tying, third in ribbon roping,

Cole Trexler also competed in tie down roping at the finals. Iriey Anderson photo.

Cole Trexler gets ready to leave the chute on a saddle bronc during the MHSR finals. Iriey Anderson photo. fourth in team roping, and seventh in chute dogging. (The steer is let out of a bucking chute with the cowboy hanging on to their horns. The cowboy has to throw the steer down for a time.) Cash handily won the all-around champion, outscoring the closest cowboy by 29 points. Normally, Cash and his parents, Reed and Kari Trexler, would now be planning a trip to the

National Junior High Finals, but that rodeo has been canceled. He plans on competing in the Northern Rodeo Association (NRA) in junior breakaway and doing lots of practicing for next fall when he enters high school. However, the Trexler family will be able to travel to Guthrie, Oklahoma, for the National High School Rodeo Finals. Cole Trexler is just finishing up his junior year at Corvallis. He competes in tie down roping, team roping, and saddle bronc riding and earned a trip to the finals. “It was nice to finally be able to go back to rodeoing,” said Cole. “The committees that put these spring rodeos on really

wanted to see rodeo back in their communities.” Cole went on to say the 6 foot social distancing rule was a little difficult to adhere to but they tried. He said that at some of the rodeos, especially at the state rodeo, the contestants’ temperature was taken every morning. “That was weird.” This last weekend, the Montana State High School Finals were held in Baker, Montana. Cole had accumulated enough points throughout the season in the saddle bronc event that he was able to hold on to fourth place. His only ride of the finals was his first bronc when he scored a 59. “Shane Vaira brought the

Cash Trexler won the Jr. High boys breakaway for the third year in a row. David Hollenback photo. horses and they were pretty good. The second horse was really strong and felt different. The third horse flat out bucked!” Cole went on to say he’d only been bucked off of three horses all season and two of those

were at state. But the fourth place finish allows him to move on to the NHSR Finals in Guthrie, Oklahoma, at the Lazy E arena. Cole plans on competing in the rookie bronc riding at some of the NRA rodeos this summer.

Bucs sweep Red Sox

Cash Trexler of Corvallis holds the saddle catalog he will select his saddle from for winning the All Around Champion Cowboy award at the Montana Junior High Rodeo finals two weeks ago. Shown with him is Miss Rodeo Montana, Katie Lynn Kraus. David Hollenback photo.

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The Bitterroot Bucs traveled to Hamilton on Friday night for another inter valley match up. Jake Scully was on the mound for the Bucs and pitched until the bottom of the sixth. Although he didn’t throw many strike outs, the Bucs’ defense held the Red Sox to only five runs in the 13-5 win. Drew Scully got the scoring going with the bases loaded in the third inning and only one out. He knocked a long ball over left field for a double and scored two runners. Zack Christopherson followed with a long ball to left field that scored Brenden Schneiter. The Bucs continued to play tough defense but the Red Sox got on the board in the fourth inning when Dillon Pilkerton walked and Mack Wright got a hit to get on base and move Pilkerton up. Pilkerton and Wright went on to score but tough fielding by the outfield ended the Red Sox’s run. In the top of the fifth, two walks and a hit batter loaded the bases

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A Bitterroot Red Sox player tries to get back to first base but Bitterroot Bucs first baseman, Zack Christopherson, is ready for the ball. Jean Schurman photo.

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for the Bucs’ without any outs. Two more walks scored those players. The inning finished with the Bucs up 12 to 2. The Red Sox got some momentum going in the fifth inning with Mitchell Spinetta, after being hit by a pitch, making it home off a Mack Wright stand up double that scored Spinetta and Pilkerton. The second game of the

night didn’t start until almost 9:30 and finished about midnight. Christopherson pitched four and a third innings striking out six batters and only allowing four hits. Colby Kohlman has a double and two RBIs. Schneiter also had a double and two RBIs. Christopherson and Johnny Lineback each had two RBIs.

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123 S. 5TH Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured free range chickens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, Stevensville. Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb). Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).

FOR SALE 2005 FORD E450 SHUTTLE BUS. Seats up to 14 with commercial wheelchair lift. V8 automatic transmission, diesel. New valves, gaskets and fuel pump. Less than 130,000 miles so good for another 250,000. Near Hardin. Wife drove disabled husband with ease. A bargain at $12,000. Call (406) 665-5321 or email warrd0351@ gmail.com.

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

RENTALS FOR RENT - UNFURNISHED BEDROOM in a spacious 2-bedroom house with fenced garden. Close to Kiwanis Park. $450 per month plus utilities. From June 2020 to June 2021. 406-880-3649.

HELP WANTED

STEVENSVILLE - DISHWASHER needed for weekends. Family restaurant, good pay, and friendly atmosphere. Must be dependable. Call 777-3681 for details. HOME CARE SERVICES is hiring caregivers and CNAs. Flexible schedule, competitive pay. Apply at 925 N. First Street in Hamilton. Call 375-8637. CUT BANK POLICE DEPARTMENT is hiring a Patrolman. Starting wage is 19.38-21.37. Will train and cover academy costs. Contact Chief Schultz at (406) 873-2289. BRIGHT EYES ANIMAL SHELTER, full-time manager position, Choteau, MT. Must have animal care background, work most weekends, good with public. Application: brighteyesanimalshel-

LEGAL NOTICES

tative

RICHARD A. WEBER, P.C. 345 West Main Street Hamilton, Montana 59840 Telephone: 406/363-6888 Fax: 406/363-2972 Attorney for Personal Represen-

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT, RAVALLI COUNTY In Re the Estate of: JACQUELINE MARY STERRETT, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-42 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Jim Sterrett, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of Richard A.Weber, 345 West Main, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the aboveentitled Court. Dated this 26 day of May, 2020 /s/ Jim Sterrett Personal Representative of The Estate of Jacqueline Mary Sterrett BS 6-3, 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP

tative

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

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JIMMY LOUIS HENDRICKSON, also known as JIM HENDRICKSON, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-45 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named Estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Susan K. Hendrickson, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 27th day of May 2020. ADVERTISING Susan K. Hendrickson, Personal Representative BS 6-3, 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY

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IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JODY L. CANTARINI AKA JODY LYNN CANTARINI, Deceased Cause No. DP-20-44 Dept. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Carol A. Cantarini, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 27th day of May, 2020 /s/ Diana Lee Davis, Personal Representative 122 Laird Creek Rd. Conner, MT 59827 BS 6-3, 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP

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Dustin M. Chouinard David T. Markette . Megan S. Winderl MARKETTE & CHOUINARD,

601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110 DustinC@mcpcattorneys.com Attorneys for Petitioner MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of RANDALL ROBERT KELLER, Deceased. Probate No. DP 19-129/19 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Personal·Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice·or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Ernie Keller, the Personal Representative, in care of MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. DATED this 30th day of May, 2020. /s/ Ernie Keller, Personal Representative MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, PC /s/ Dustin M. Chouinard Attorney for Personal Representative BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HELEN L. HEDMAN aka HELEN LOUISE HEDMAN, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-48 Dept. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All

persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Whitney C. Hedman, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 4th day of June, 2020 /s/ Whitney C. Hedman, Personal Representative 1200 S. 3rd Street Hamilton, MT 59840 BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Aliyah Celeste, Aliyah Celeste, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-191/3 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Aliyah Celeste to Celeste Ann Fideldy. The hearing will be on July 9, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: May 26, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 6-3, 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Rebecca Rene Lloyd, Rebecca Rene Lloyd, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-203/5 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Rebecca Rene Lloyd to Rebecca Rene Wheeler. The hearing will be on July 16, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the CourtADVERTISING house in Ravalli County. Dated: June 1, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court. By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24, 7-1–20. MNAXLP ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS RAVALLI COUNTY AIRPORT IMPROVEMENTS RAVALLI COUNTY, MONTANA A.I.P. 3-30-0037-019-2020 & 3-30-0037-020-2020 Separate sealed bids will be received by Ravalli County, Montana until 1:30 p.m., local time, June 17, 2020. All bids will be received, publicly opened, and read aloud at the Ravalli County Commissioners Office, 215 South Fourth, 3rd Floor, Ravalli County Commissioners Conference Room, Hamilton, Montana 59840-2853, for the Ravalli County Airport Improvements Project to include the following: o Construct Runway 17-35; o Rehabilitate / Construct Taxiways & Taxilanes; o Rehabilitate Aprons & Construct Apron Expansion; o Pavement Maintenance; o Drainage Improvements; o Install Medium Intensity Runway and Taxiway Lighting; o Install Precision Approach Path Indicators; o Install L-807 Lighting Wind-

cone and Segmented Circle; o Construct / Install Electrical Enclosure & Equipment; o Construct Hangar Access Road and Parking Area; o Construct / Install Wildlife Exclusion Fence; and o Obstruction Removal. This work is to include all tools, equipment, materials, and labor to complete this project. Ravalli County, Montana, in accordance with the provisions of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (78 Stat. 252, 42 USC §§ 2000d to 2000d4) and the Regulations, hereby notifies all bidders or offerors that it will affirmatively ensure that any contract entered into pursuant to this advertisement, disadvantaged business enterprises will be afforded full and fair opportunity to submit bids in response to this invitation and will not be discriminated against on the grounds of race, color, or national origin in consideration for an award. The requirements of 49 CFR part 26 apply to this contract. It is the policy of Ravalli County, Montana to practice nondiscrimination based on race, color, sex, or national origin in the award or performance of this contract. The Owner encourages participation by all firms qualifying under this solicitation regardless of business size or ownership. All contracts and subcontracts that result from this solicitation incorporate by reference the provisions of 29 CFR part 201, the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), with the same force and effect as if given in full text. The FLSA sets minimum wage, overtime pay, recordkeeping, and child labor standards for full and part-time workers. The Contractor has full responsibility to monitor compliance to the referenced statute or regulation. The Contractor must address any claims or disputes that arise from this requirement directly with the U.S. Department of Labor – Wage and Hour Division. This project is subject to the Federal provisions for Buy American Preference, Foreign Trade Restriction, Davis Bacon, Affirmative Action, Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970, Certification of Offeror/ Bidder Regarding Debarment, and Government-wide Requirements for Drug-free Workplace, which are incorporated by reference. Failure to comply with the terms of these contract provisions may be sufficient grounds to: 1.) Withhold progress payments or final payment, 2.) Terminate the contract, 3.) Seek suspension/debarment, or 4.) Any other action determined to be appropriate by the Sponsor or the FAA. Bids will be received on a price basis as described in the Contract Documents. Bid security in the amount of not less than ten percent (10%) of the amount of the bid, which shall be: (1) lawful money of the United States; or (2) a Cashier’s Check, Certified Check, Bank Money Order or Bank Draft, in any case drawn and issued by a federally chartered or state chartered bank insured by the federal deposit insurance corporation; or (3) a bid bond, guaranty bond, or surety bond executed by a surety corporation authorized to do business in the State of Montana. The bid security shall be made payable to the Owner and failure to enter into a formal contract will result in the Owner retaining the bid security. The successful bidder will be required to enter into a formal contract within ten (10) calendar days from the date the Notice of Award is received, to complete an insurance certification, to furnish a Performance Bond, and a Labor and Materials Payment Bond. The bonds will each be equal to 100 percent of the contract amount. The

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successful Bidder is required to comply with Montana’s Contractor Registration Law in accordance with Title 39, Chapter 9, MCA. Contract Documents may be inspect¬ed at many plan exchanges, and at the office of the consulting engineer, Robert Peccia & Associates, (3147 Saddle Dr. / P.O. Box 5653, Helena, MT 59604). They may be reviewed, downloaded, and printed at no cost under the “CURRENT PROJECTS BIDDING” tab at www. rpa-hln.com. All bids must be submitted in a Bidding Documents booklet, provided by the Engineer upon receipt of $25.00 (non-refundable). Alternate forms or copies of the Bidding Documents booklet will not be acceptable. The Planholders List will include only the purchasers of Bidding Documents booklets. Hard copies of the Contract Documents (including a Bidding Documents booklet) printed by the Engineer are available upon receipt of $400.00 (non-refundable) for each complete set. A pre-bid conference will be held on June 4, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. at the Ravalli County Airport. Additionally, the Engineer shall be available on June 10, 2020 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Ravalli County Airport. No formal presentation will be made at this time; however, the Engineer will answer questions and be available for scheduled site visits. Potential Bidders are also encouraged to contact the Engineer (lbowser@rpa-hln.com, rdonaldson@rpa-hln.com or 406-4475000) with questions. Faxed / emailed bids will not be accepted or considered. The Owner reserves the right to reject any and all bids, to waive informalities, and to reject nonconforming, irregular, non-responsive, or conditional bids. Bids may be held by the Owner for a period not to exceed 120 days, from the date of the opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the qualifications of the bidder prior to award of the contract. May 27, 2020 RAVALLI COUNTY By /s/ Chris Hoffman, Chairman BS 5-27, 6-3, 6-10-20. MNAXLP. MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY TIM’S CLEANER CARPETS AND RESTORATION, INC., a Montana Corporation, Plaintiff v. ANN ROSE DALLASERRA, A.K.A. ANN ROSE HOCKADAY, Defendant. Hon. Shane A. Vannatta Case No. DV-18-248 NOTICE OF SALE ON EXECUTION PER §25-13-701 (SHERIFF’S SALE) SHERIFF’S SALE To be sold at sheriff s sale on the 24th day of June, 2020, at 10 o’clock a.m., inside the front doors of Ravalli County Courthouse at 205 Bedford St., Hamilton, Montana 59840. Property is described as follows: The South 25 feet of the West 37 feet of Lot 8, and Lot 10 except the east 30 feet of the north 55 feet thereof, all in Werth Addition, Ravalli County, Montana, according to the recorded plat thereof. RECORDING REFERENCE: Book 201 Deeds, page 792. KNOWN AS: 156 Golf Course Rd., Hamilton, MT 59840 Dated this 14th day of May, 2020 /s/ Steve Holton, Sheriff BS 6-3, 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP

LEGAL NOTICE The Stevensville Town Council will hold a public hearing at 6:30pm on June 17, 2020 in the North Valley Public Library Community Room located at 208 Main St. Stevensville, MT 59870 for the purposes of obtaining public comments regarding the town’s community housing need (public facilities, economic development, and housing need), including the needs of low income persons, to be served by the proposed development of a low income multifamily housing project known as Burnt Fork Place Apartments located on a currently vacant parcel of land on Box Bird Lane located in and being a portion of Lot 2, Block 6, May Addition to the Town of Stevensville, and being more particularly described as Parcel B, Certificate of Survey No. 466881-TR (the “Project”). The Project, which is intended to provide a community benefit, is being developed in conjunction with District XI Human Resource Council, Inc., a Montana nonprofit corporation and Burnt Fork Place, LLLP, a Montana limited liability limited partnership and will utilize Low Income Housing Tax Credits allocated to the Project by the Montana Board of Housing as well as other funding sources which target low income housing projects. The public hearing is being hosted by the Town Council to gather and hear comment from the community. This project is not currently subject to the approval of the Town Council and no decision is expected to come before the Town Council regarding the proposed development. BS 6-3, 6-17-20. MNAXLP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS Old US Highway 93 Asphalt Paving The Ravalli County Board of Commissioners is soliciting Request for Proposals for asphalt paving to be conducted on Old US Highway 93 in Ravalli County. Proposals will be received by the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second Floor) Hamilton, MT. 59840 until 4:00 p.m. Monday June 15, 2020. Proposals will then be opened by the Ravalli County Commissioners at 11:00 a.m. on June 16, 2020 in the Commissioners Conference Room (Third Floor) at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT. For a copy of the Full Request for Proposal and Specifications for the construction project, contact the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department at 244 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, MT during regular business hours or by calling 406-363-2733. For questions concerning the Request for Proposal process, contact Chris Taggart at the Ravalli County Commissioners Office – 406-375-6500. Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 6-3, 6-10-20. MNAXLP PUBLIC HEARING PRELIMINARY BUDGET HEARING FOR RAVALLI COUNTY The BOARD OF RAVALLI COUNTY COMMISSIONERS will hold a public hearing on the Preliminary County Operating Budget beginning June 22, 2020, at 9:00 AM in the Commissioners Conference Room located at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT. on the 3rd Floor. The Commissioners have compiled the Preliminary Annual Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2021 and the budget is on file and open for inspection in the Ravalli County Commissioners Office located at 215 S. 4th Street, Suite A, (3rd floor), Hamilton, MT. Budgets can be taken out of

Wednesday, June 10, 2020 order listed below, and may be continued into the next date and/or time session if necessary: Commissioners, Justice Court #1, Justice Court #2, General Fund Variable Costs, Treasurer, Clerk & Recorder/Records Preservation/County Supt of Schools, Finance, County Attorney, Office of Emergency Management, Public Health Nurse/PHEP/ MCH/Immunization, Environmental Health, Information Technology, Human Resources, Central Supply, Contributions to Communities, Facilities, Road, Bridge, Weed Control, Fair, Airport, Clerk of District Court, Juvenile Detention, Comprehensive Insurance, Parks, Library, Cemetery, Planning, GIS, Mental Health, Valley Veterans, Economic Development, Extension, Public Safety, Jail Diversion, Animal Protection & Control, Records Retention, Old Courthouse Maintenance, Ravalli County Museum, and 911 County & Enhanced. Any taxpayer or resident may appear at the hearing and be head for or against any part of the proposed preliminary budget. The Final Budget will be approved and adopted by Resolution on Wednesday, September 3, 2020, at 2:30 PM. If you have any questions, please contact the Commissioner’s Office at 375-6500, email at commissioners@rc.mt.gov or at the above address. Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 6-10, 6-27-20. MNAXLP PUBLIC COMMENT AND REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW RECORD The Stevensville United Methodist Church will hold public hearing on Wednesday, June 10th at 7:00 pm at the Stevensville United Methodist Church for the purpose of obtaining comments regarding the environmental review record for the proposed reroofing project of the Church building. At the public hearing the proposed project will be explained, including the purpose and proposed area of the project, activities, budget, possible sources of funding, any costs that may result for local citizens as a result of the project, and a decision will be made on the environmental assessment. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to ask questions and express opinions regarding the proposed project and any environmental impacts. Comments may be given orally at the meeting or submitted in writing before June 11th at 5:00 pm. Anyone wanting to review the environmental review record and project impacts or submit questions and comments should contact John Fisher @ Stevensville UMC, 216 College St. Stevensville, MT 59870. Copies of the draft environmental record are available at Stevensville UMC, 216 College St. and will also be available at the public meeting. Stevensville United Methodist Church 216 College Street Stevensville, MT 59870 /s/ Paul Ludington, Chairperson of the Administrative Board BS 6-10-20. MNAXLP CALL FOR BIDS JUNK VEHICLE HAULING – RAVALLI COUNTY The Board of Ravalli County Commissioners has issued a call for bids for the Junk Vehicle Hauling Contract. An acceptance of a bid would result in a one year contract, with the ability to renew the contract for two

subsequent years. Contracted services will be for the removal of junk vehicles from private property throughout the county and placement in the vehicle graveyard. Instruction to bidders can be obtained at the Ravalli County Environmental Health Department 215 S. 4th Street (Second Floor), Suite D, Hamilton, MT, or by calling the Environmental Health Department at 375-6565, or email a request to RCEH@rc.mt.gov. Seals bids must be received no later than June 29, 2020, at 10:30 AM at the Clerk & Recorders Office, 215 S. 4th Street, (Second Floor), Hamilton, MT. 59840. If you have any questions about the bid process, call Chris Taggart in the Commissioner’s Office at 3756500. Chris Taggart Administrative Assistant Commissioners Office BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS ASPHALT SEAL COAT The Ravalli County Board of Commissioners is soliciting Request for Proposals for asphalt seal coat to be conducted throughout various County roads in Ravalli County Proposals will be received by the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second Floor) Hamilton, MT. 59840 until Friday 4:00 p.m. June 26, 2020. Proposals will then be opened by the Ravalli County Commissioners at 9:30 a.m. on June 29, 2020 in the Commissioners Conference Room (Third Floor) at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT. For a copy of the Full Request for Proposal and Specifications for the construction seal, contact the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department at 244 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, MT. during regular business hours or by calling 406-363-2733. For questions concerning the Request for Proposal process, contact Chris Taggart at the Ravalli County Commissioners Office – 406-375-6500. Glenda M. Wiles Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS PAVEMENT MARKINGS The Ravalli County Board of Commissioners is soliciting Request for Proposals for pavement markings to be conducted throughout various County roads in Ravalli County. Proposals will be received by the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second Floor) Hamilton, MT. 59840 until 4:00 p.m. Friday, June 26, 2020. Proposals will then be opened by the Ravalli County Commissioners at 10:00 a.m. on June 29, 2020 in the Commissioners Conference Room (Third Floor) at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT. For a copy of the Full Request for Proposal and Specifications for the pavement markings, contact the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department at 244 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, MT. during regular business hours or by calling 406-363-2733. For questions concerning the Request for Proposal process, contact Chris Taggart at the Ravalli County Commissioners Office – 406-375-6500. Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP

INVITATION TO BID AGGREGATE MATERIALS The Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners is now accepting proposals for the delivery of 2020/2021 AGGREGATE MATERIALS SUPPLY. Sealed proposals will be received by the Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder at the County Administrative Center, 215 South Fourth Street, Suite “C”, Hamilton, Montana, 59840, until Friday 4 P.M. MST on JUNE 26, 2020. The proposals received will be publicly opened and read aloud at 10:30 a.m. MST on Monday, June 29, 2020 by the Board of County Commissioners in the Commissioners Conference Room located at 215 S. 4th Street, (third floor), Hamilton, MT. Contract documents may be examined or obtained at the Ravalli County Road & Bridge Department office at 244 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton, Montana, 59840. Questions relative to the standard and special provisions may be directed to the Ravalli County Road Department at (406) 363-2733. Questions relative to the bid process may be directed to the Ravalli County Commissioners Office at (406) 375-6500. No proposal may be withdrawn after the scheduled time for the public opening of proposals, which is scheduled for 10:30 a.m. MST on Monday, June 29, 2020. Ravalli County reserves the right to reject any or all proposals received, to waive informalities therein, to postpone the award of the contract for a period of time not to exceed sixty (60) days and to accept the lowest responsive and responsible proposal determined to be in the best interests of Ravalli County. Chris Taggart, Administrative Assistant Ravalli County Commissioners Office BS 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP

REQUEST FOR PUBLIC COMMENT AND REVIEW OF ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW RECORD The Stevensville Historical Museum, Inc. will hold a public hearing on Thursday, June 11, 2020, at 7:00 pm at the Museum’s property at 517 Main Street, Stevensville. The purpose of this public hearing is to obtain comments regarding the environmental review record for the proposed installation of a new heating unit and storm windows to increase the energy efficiency of the Museum’s building. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to ask questions and express opinions regarding the proposed project and any environmental impacts. Comments may be given orally at the meeting or submitted in writing before the time of the meeting. Anyone wanting to review the environmental review record and project impacts or submit questions and comments should contact Ruth Baker at: stevensvillemuseum@yahoo. com. Copies of the draft environmental record will be available by request or at the public meeting. BS 6-10-20. MNAXLP

LEGAL NOTICE The Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a Public Hearing to receive citizen comment on a Material Modification to move a property boundary between The Stock Farm Common Area B and The Golf Course Parcel A. The property is located in Sections 23, 24, 25 & 26 T6N, R20W, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana.The applicant is The Stock Farm Homeowners Association. Information describing the proposal is available for inspection at the Planning Office, in the Administrative Center, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. The Public Hearing will be held Tuesday, June 30th, 2020, at 1:30 p.m., in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room at the Administrative Center. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, prior to or at the meeting. Comments and information submitted at the public meeting will be considered in the decision. BS 6-10, 6-24-20. MNAXLP

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LEGAL NOTICE Samuel Brown, Angela O’Connell, notice is now given, that pursuant to the provisons of MC 70-6601, et. seq., and the contract you signed, the contents of your storage unit are now subject to an operators lien. Unless the accruing balance is paid in full, before 12 noon, June 19, 2020, the contents of the storage unit will be removed and sold at Fairgrounds Rd RV & Mini Storage, 537 N. Daly Ave., Hamilton, MT 59840, at 10 AM on Saturday, June 20, 2020. BS 6-10, 6-17-20. MNAXLP.

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Obituaries Grace Buchanon Stevensville - Grace Buchanan, 93, longtime Victor resident and more recently of The Living Centre of Stevensville, passed away peacefully Monday morning, June 1. Grace was born Verona Grace Fliehmann, to parents Leonard and Ida (Reilly) Fliehmann, January 26, 1927 in Gebo, Wyoming and raised in Thermopolis, Wyoming, as the baby of her family. She joined half-sister, Anna, half-brother Robert, and brother Jack spending her childhood between summers on the family farm and the school year in the house in town. Being a farmer’s daughter, her family weathered the Great Depression well. With the advent of WWII, her brothers joined the Army, and though a student, Grace joined the Civil Air Patrol to do her part. Grace was an avid learner and excellent student. She skipped a grade to graduate as Valedictorian of her class. Grace graduated from Denver University with a major in math and minor in German, and there being no careers for a Wyoming girl in those areas, she obtained a teaching certificate. Before embarking on her lifetime in education, however, she took a steamship to Europe for the Grand Tour and traveled by steam train. After three years of teaching elementary school in her hometown, she met Nolan “Bud” Buchanan while he was working on the Boysen Dam in the Wind River Canyon, and they were married September 1, 1950 in Cody, Wyoming. Her mother later had an article in the local paper that Grace and Nolan had married in the Catholic Church in Cody to save face, but in reality, Grace followed her heart and the couple eloped. Anyone who knows Grace and her well planned out details would know what a surprise that would have been! Traveling the Northwest,

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Jay Jerome Seppel

following major construction projects, they had a son, Daryl, born in Pasco, Washington. One of their homes was in Depoe Bay, Oregon, where they vowed to retire, but never got the chance to do so. In 1955, after Grace’s parents “retired” to a farm in Corvallis, her father was stricken with cancer. Grace stayed with her parents to help care for her father and the farm. When her father died, Grace was unable to move, being very pregnant, so Bud found a new company in Western Montana to work for and they stayed on in Corvallis, where they had their daughter, Tamara. Grace resumed her teaching career in the Hamilton School system, teaching elementary and later as reading specialist. During this time, she became a part of the Five Valley Reading Council and served for a time as its president. She was instrumental in the “Readdit” program by developing booklets and video to encourage reading skills at home. She participated nationwide as a presenter in educational conferences, and created games to assist in developing reading and math skills. Grace joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints after moving to Corvallis and served in many positions with unwavering faith and determination. In addition to her many years of church service, she volunteered

until the age of 88 with the Cub Scout program. She also served a mission for her church in the Canada, Toronto Mission, as the only older sister in her proselyting mission. Ever a champion of children, family and working with youth were the center of her life. She had a passion for reading, Jeopardy, and the Trivia Quiz, and Old Time Fiddlers that the Centre provided. She loved her surroundings, her caregivers and the many phone calls and visits she received. Grace was preceded in death by her parents, and siblings, including a half-brother, Leonard, who died before she was born, and her husband. She is survived by her son Daryl (Marge) Buchanan, Tamara (John) Barker; grandchildren, Jessica (Ron) Beckman, Thomas (Patrisha) Buchanan, Timothy (Sara Jo) Buchanan, Brett (Genalea) Barker, and Marcella Barker; several great grandchildren, and one gg grandchild. She is also survived by many extended family members and friends she adopted as family. The family are grateful in her behalf for the loving care she received at The Living Centre, Partners in Health Hospice, her medical caregivers, and finally, Whitesitt Funeral Home, for their wonderful service in these difficult times. Grace would tell you that if you can, mentor a child, or donate your time and talents to The Living Centre (or nursing home close to you). “A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” John 13:34. A service was held at the Relief Society Room at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Stevensville on Saturday, June 6, 2020. Interment followed the service in the Victor Cemetery. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Stevensville - Jay Jerome Seppel, beloved son, father, grandfather, big brother, uncle and friend found his way to the clearing at the end of the path, on June 7, 2020. Having the biggest heart a man can have—it took a final beat, at home, in his wonderful, sprawling, many-additions, hand crafted—from what others call scrap—homestead on Iron Cap Drive. Jay was born in Green Bay, Wisconsin on May 23, in the Spring of 1951—his favorite season, to Jerome and Catherine Seppel (Williams). Jay was the oldest of eleven children having three brothers and seven sisters and the finest big brother anyone could ever hope for. He graduated from Green Bay West High School in 1969, followed by four years of service in the U.S. Navy. He is the loving father of Ericka (Patino), April (Salvatore) and Sonya Kewitt, all of Colorado, and a loving grandfather to their children, Roman and Raya Patino and Sophia Salvatore. In the early 1970’s, Jay “discovered” the Bitterroot Valley, and it was love at first sight—his true home ever after. In 1977, he purchased a most unforgiving spot, in the high mountain desert, on Iron Cap Mountain. His land was covered with prickly pear cactus, sagebrush and almost no water. Over the next 40 plus years Jay carved an oasis into that hardscrabble, hostile landscape. He was a master gardener who could in fact grow anything he had a mind to. On his precious ten acres you will find an island of green amongst the sage—a former desert, now alive with all manner of growing things that thrive alongside many well-fed

Death Notices Sandra Lou Stecher

Stevensvile - Sandra Lou “Sandy” Stecher, 81, passed away Monday, May 18, 2020 in Discovery Care Centre in Hamilton.

songbirds. Jay was a self-taught master carpenter and artist. He is founder and owner of Sapphire Builders Construction Company. There seemed nothing he could not build—being also a master “problem solver”—with the ability to envision solutions to most any problem in his path. Jay displayed the same attention to detail and pride of craftsmanship building the smallest walking bridge, as he did building a million dollar mansion on the banks of the Bitterroot River. Jay was unbudging in his commitment to building anything less than the right way. One cannot go far in the Bitterroot Valley without passing something amazing crafted by Jay’s hands and mind—often with the help of his brothers, Guy and Jim. Jay was a man of many talents. He used his life spending those talents in every way possible—never hoarding—doling them out—like the richest man ever—spending lavishly—like a millionaire intent on going broke. Jay: a man of great moral conviction—simply put, did more for Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Leonard Moore

Stevensville - Leonard G. “Len” Moore, 94, passed away

others than he ever did for himself. Honest, humble and hardworking he was a believer in a world that is “one big recycle.” In the course of his life, Jay planted hundreds of trees—a true believer in the goodness of trees and the recycling of everything—“Whosoever plants a tree, winks at immortality.” Jay was also a voracious reader—one of his favorite poems explains his mortal ending well: When I die My atoms will come undone. I’ll be space dust once again. The wind will carry me and scatter me everywhere, like dandelions in Springtime. I’ll visit worlds and alien moons. It will be so damn poetic, until I land in your sandwich. (Author Unknown) It’s entirely possible no one who ever met him, doesn’t like or love him. Jay has achieved, in a short lifetime, the seemingly impossible. He is no one’s bad memory - only good. The proud family of Jay Jerome Seppel would like to thank the amazing Hospice Team, Rachel and Cory, Guy, Keith, Paul, and Stan—and others who helped Jay “buy a little more time” for which he, and we, will always be very grateful. For those of us who remain here, Jay will stay wrapped in the warm blanket of memory—surrounded by his family and many friends—alive and dead—who stand guard around him. He was the best. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome. com. early in the morning, Saturday, June 6, 2020, at the Marcus Daly Hospice Center in Hamilton. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com

Summer Safety, Public Health cares about our community, Ravalli County Public Health wishes everyone to have a safe and fun summer. Stop in to get your child a free helmet or call to see if you qualify for a free car seat and installation.

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MONITORING long term trends in WATER QUALITY since 2017 The Bitterroot River Health Check program is a community-based water quality monitoring program supported by a collective of individual community members, local businesses, and non-profit organizations, as well as the Bitterroot College. Our citizen-science based program helps collect water quality data in the Bitterroot River Basin for local, state, and federal agencies. Bitterroot Front Project (potential streams) Carlton Sweeney Bass Kootenai Big Creek Sweathouse Bear Fred Burr Mill Blodgett Roaring Lion Lost Horse Rock Tin Cup Our program grew from monitoring 4 long term sites on the mainstem of the river in 2017 to monitoring 7 sites on the mainstem and an additional 11 sites on six tributaries in the Sapphire Front by 2019. We have recently signed an MOU with the Bitterroot National Forest to install additional sites on up to a dozen tributaries on the Bitterroot Front and are calling for volunteers.

Volunteer now to become a citizen scientist Our all-volunteer teams work without charge to aid agencies such as DEQ, FWP and others in agency-sponsored water quality monitoring projects, in training and educational programs at the Bitterroot College and in university-related research projects, as well as other independent water quality monitoring projects in the Bitterroot River watershed.

Volunteer now to be a RIVER KEEPER! Or volunteer to be a CREEKKEEPER and manage the data collection activities on the stream you love. Volunteer to work on one team or learn to work on any or all of them. Call 239-4838 or email bitterrootriverprotection@gmail.com ∞ Help with Nutrient Sampling! Taking YSI meter readings and grabbing water samples for lab analysis. Twice a month (June) July through September (October). Sampling at each location takes approximately one hour.

∞ Help with Photo Documentation! All aspects of the monitoring program require photographic documentation.

∞ Join the A-Team! Chlorophyll A and Algae sampling once a month in August and September. Each event takes approximately two days covering a total of seven locations.

Our partners:

∞ Join the Flow Tracker Team! Take flow measurements using a FlowTracker 2 flow meter. Takes 1-1.5 hours at each location.