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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B ‘The
Volume XXXVI, Number 48
JUNE
25TH AND
26TH Wednesday, June 16, 2021
www.bitterrootstar.com
A princess party!
Pride crosswalk proposal draws strong opposition by Nathan Boddy
Six-year-old Maci Eldridge was granted her wish to be princess for a day, with all the bells and whistles, courtesy of the Make-A-Wish Foundation South Dakato & Montana.
Maci gets her wish
by Victoria Howell On Saturday, six-year-old Maci Eldridge of Stevensville was the star of a very special “Frozen” princess party, complete with a coterie of other young princesses and other royalty, courtesy of Make-A-Wish. Maci first got pampered at Kutting Edge Salon, where her hair and nails were done and she donned her princess dress with tiara and earrings. She was transported to the party at Three Mile Fire Station by Ravalli County Sheriff Holton, where she was lavished with presents, cake and fun and games. About 30 people attended including family members and friends and volunteers from Make-A-Wish. The Sheriff then gave Maci a ride back to her home in Stevensville. Maci was born with a heart condition called Hypoplastic left heart syndrome, according to her grandmother, Robin Kester, who is raising Maci. She has had three surgeries – first when she was a newborn, then at six months old, then last year. “She’s a happy kiddo, she’s gone through so much,” said Kester. “She
likes to make friends and she likes people in general. She’s my hero.” Maci just finished kindergarten and will be going into first grade at Stevensville. “She’s gotten through a lot of hurdles,” says Kester. “She still goes to physical therapy. She was speech delayed but now she’s up above her age group. I tell her what’s what, I’ve told Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton was Maci’s personal chauffeur as she went to the salon and then to the party and back home. her about her surgery. We “She loves dresses,” added Kester. google what we don’t know. She wants “She’s a little glamor girl. She’s bright to learn.” See WISH, page 11
Several dozen people were clustered around the entrance to Hamilton City Hall last Tuesday, June 8th, well before the door was opened for the Committee of the Whole (COW) meeting. The majority of the large turnout was there to voice their opposition to a proposal by area high schoolers and volunteers to paint rainbow crosswalks at a downtown Hamilton intersection in support of “diversity and inclusivity.” The City Council had requested, on May 25th, that city staff assemble a written policy which could be used to determine any future proposals for painting upon city pavement or asphalt. The week prior, on May 18th, the council had granted a request by Bike/Walk/Bitterroot to redo a series of paintings upon the four crosswalks at the intersection of State and 4th Streets. That proposal, which passed unanimously, had no public opposition at its hearing. The proposal for the rainbow crosswalk, however, brought with it a substantial amount of opposition by area residents. Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf had, at that time, suggested that the council
move cautiously, and asked that staff prepare a policy for dealing with future proposals. Town Planner, Matthew Rohrbach, presented a “Paint the Pavement” policy, tailored to the City of Hamilton. The policy, if adopted, would require applicants to complete a multi-phased application process and provide: design specifics, liability insurance, a maintenance/vandalism plan, and an application fee, among others items. Furthermore, the policy would require that any proposal “must meet at least one of the sub-criteria for Safety Improvement or Community Vitality.” Among the listed possible sub-criteria are: “Enhances existing traffic control,” and “Improves or enhances the vibrancy of Downtown.” To the draft policy, Councilor Kristi Bielski asked that an additional requirement be added showing that any proposal, “must fall under (the) mission statement and vision statement,” of the City of Hamilton. While the agenda item was the draft policy, public comment was very clearly aimed more at the rainbow crosswalk proposal than the policy itself. Dozens of speakers expressed viewpoints See CROSSWALK, page 7
Festival season starts in Stevi Stevensville Western Heritage Days is back after a pandemic-induced hiatus. The committee is hoping this will be a banner year for attendance as people turn out to celebrate making it through a super challenging year and can now gather and enjoy this popular local festival. The festival, the 32nd annual, will be held Friday and Saturday, June 25 and 26. Events kick off on Friday with the annual rummage sale at the Stevensville Historical Museum and the 50-Mile Garage Sale which will have locations throughout Stevensville. The Chuck Wagon Camp will set up at Priest Park at the west end of Ravalli
Street. People can check out the wagons and watch the wagon judging followed by the Kids’ Cooking Competition at 6 p.m. Then enjoy live music with Bill LaCroix and friends at the camp. This year the “Pie in the Big Sky” pie auction will be held on the Stevensville Hotel lawn on Friday at 6:30 p.m. People can come and have a glass of wine and bid on dozens of pies of all flavors and types, both edible and non-edible. All proceeds this year will go towards the Stevensville Splash Pad. Saturday’s fun begins with the expanded farmers market and craft fair at 3rd and Main. The Museum See FESTIVAL, page 7
Council member calls out Stevi mayor on legal fee issue by Victoria Howell The Thursday, June 10th meeting of the Stevensville Town Council got off to a rocky start when council president Dempsey Vick asked for a suspension of council rules. He told the council that he had released a statement earlier that day regarding a claim payment and subsequent return of the money for legal fees that were incurred for the Dewey v. Rodabaugh case. Vick also said that he had found out that Robert Underwood, the Town’s financial officer who is retiring, had been told
by the mayor that very day that “his services were no longer needed.” Vick said he found out that the issue he was concerned with had actually happened in December, not in April, so he was very concerned. Vick made a motion to put Mayor Brandon Dewey on trial for misuse of public funds but the motion died for lack of a second. Vick said he had asked the town attorney to investigate the matter. Council member Patrick Shourd said he agreed that there needed to be an investigation, but he thought a “trial” was “jumping the gun.”
Mayor Dewey suggested that, “rather than going down the road of an investigation, the council might want to see an account of what happened.” He reminded the council that the town attorney had said that nothing illegal had happened. Then he read a letter from Town Attorney Scott Owens which essentially stated that the claim for payment of legal fees was submitted and processed out of cycle, and he had been informed of that. Owens stated that he advised the mayor to pay the money back, which the mayor did. Owens also said that it was unclear
whether the lawsuit would qualify for indemnification, but that in any event that would have to go before the council for approval. Council member Jaime Devlin said that the council was informed about this in April and she wondered why Vick was bringing it up now. Vick said it was because he received a call from Underwood that he was asked to leave early and also that Underwood had told him that some other employee had entered the information on the payment for legal fees into the accounting software system at the instruction of the
mayor. The mayor said it was true that another employee had processed the claim, which is part of her job, and that it was coded under legal services, none of that being unusual. The mayor said that Underwood reviews all claims and signs all checks along with the mayor. The mayor said that in February, he and Underwood realized they had failed to get the outof-cycle claims ratified by the council. The mayor said they contacted the attorney and on his advice, the mayor repaid the money for the legal fees to the town. “We had two options. That See COUNCIL, page 10
Bitterroot Star -- Page 2
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 3
More being added to Darby’s Sacajawea’s Rest Park Unveiling scheduled for July 4 by Michael Howell Two new display panels are being installed at the Sacajawea’s Rest Park, a small pocket park located right on Main Street in Downtown Darby. The panels depict the two of the national historic trails that pass through Darby. One depicts the entire length of the trail taken by the Lewis & Clark Expedition from St. Louis to the Pacific Ocean, highlighting on the map where certain events occurred along the way. The map includes a “you are here” arrow pointed at Darby. The park honors the memory of Sacajawea, the only woman among the Corps of Discovery and a key player in the success of the journey. A second display map tells the history of the Nez Perce (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail illustrating and commemorating the 1,170mile journey that the Nimiipuu, (Nez Perce) took as they fled the U.S. military from the Walla Walla valley through the Bitterroot, and through the Yellowstone before turning north to the Canadian border where a couple hundred managed to make it across the border to Sitting Bull’s Camp. The creation and installation of the display panels is part of the long ongoing work of the South Valley Civic Group in upgrading the pocket park since it first opened in 2017. It is home to an impressive bronze statue of Sacajawea and her baby Baptiste made by artist Jim Demetro. The group secured a $1,200 grant from the Lewis & Clark
cemented them in. Laura Owings-Smith, president of the South Valley Civic Group, said that the new display panels would be officially unveiled for public viewing at the Sacajawea’s Rest Park’s annual 4th of July “Sacajawea Honoring Day.” The event takes place from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the park and includes some scheduled speakers, beginning with Ted Hall. Hall will talk about the history of the area from the Pleistocene Era up to today, including the time it spent under water, the times the Corps of Discovery passed through, the times the Nez Perce passed through and more. Andre Way will talk about the sacred pipe and Laura Owings-Smith will talk about the Four Directions and their importance in Native life. According to Owings-Smith, there will be vendors and a raffle as part of the festivities. The raffle prize is a float trip in the Bitterroot River with fishing guide Mike Moline from the Bitterroot Trout Shop. An art contest is also held in conjunction with the event for children 18 years of age and younger. The artwork submitted has to include Seaman, Volunteers installing the new display panels at the Sacajawea’s Rest Park in Darby last week included from left the dog that accompanied Lewis and Clark to right Joe Toolson, Ted Hall, Patrick Treacy and Dan Templeis. Photo by Michael Howell. on their journey. The Bitterroot Rodders Car Club will also be showing up in Darby for the Trail Heritage Foundation to pay for the festivities. installation of the new display panels and, That’s Sunday, July 4, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. like all else, some willing volunteers to help at Sacajawea’s Rest Park in Darby. actually do it. In this case that included Ted Hall, Joe Toolson, Patrick Treacy and Dan Templeis, Northwest Cuisine with French Influence who cut holes into the existing concrete to hold the base of the new metal display stands and then Left: Ted Hall gave the Bitterroot Star a little preview of the maps that will be on display at the Sacajawea’s Rest Park. Here he points out the location of the Darby pocket park on the map depicting the New Peace (Nee-Me-Poo) National Historic Trail that will be unveiled on July 4th. Hall will also be giving a talk at the 4th of July celebration and the “honoring day of Sacajawea” on the history of the area. Photo by Michael Howell.
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Opinion Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 4
Proud
I’m writing today to express my support and admiration for the Hamilton and Florence students who are working so hard to spread awareness, promote inclusivity, and celebrate members of our community who are often overlooked or actively maligned. The Opinions Page of the June 8th edition was full of hateful language and intolerance. Why should we paint a crosswalk in the colors of the pride flag? Why should we have a gay-straight alliance (GSA) in a middle school? Well, in the Bitterroot Valley, heterosexual and cisgender (those who identify with the gender they were assigned at birth) are the default. Anyone who falls outside of that classification is immediately othered and often made to feel unwelcome or as if something is wrong with them. What a GSA and a rainbow crosswalk do, is signal that they are welcome here, that there are others like them and that our communities are a place where they are safe to be themselves. I was disheartened and angered by those letters, but I am heartened by the youth of this valley. Whether people like it or not, our country is evolving and it’s the youth who are leading the way. I’m proud of these young adults. I hope other members of our community who agree with me will stand up and support them. Intolerance and fear are loud, let’s make inclusion and love louder. Marisa Neyenhuis Hamilton
What’s the matter with Christians?
Many of the ugliest character traits of Ravalli County residents were on full display at a recent Hamilton City Council meeting. A mob of frightened people were there, voicing their concerns because ( brace yourself! ) a handful of our local children have asked for permission to paint rainbows within a few crosswalks. Apparently the thought of rainbow crosswalks is enough to put the fear of God into many of the local citizenry. Most of the anti-rainbow speakers made a point of informing everyone that they were Christians. I assume this was their way of saying that their vile and ignorant rants were Jesus approved. I haven’t been following recent changes in Christian doctrine so I wasn’t aware that Jesus has amended “Love thy neighbor…” with “… but hate your neighbor’s kids.” While impugning the character of the children, the Christians were consistently misrepresenting the children’s motives. The motives are actually pretty easy to understand. What they want is for the City of Hamilton to say “You are safe here and you are welcome here.” Sounds like something you might mistakenly think Jesus said, doesn’t it? If the members of the City Council can find in themselves even a fraction of the courage exhibited by these children, then that is exactly what the City of Hamilton will say. David Welch Hamilton
We can do better
On my wife’s side, back at the grandmother place on the tree, at the time of their immigration from Italy, it was the norm in the family that life’s benefits were distributed “boys first.” As generations died off, boys inherited the properties, took control of businesses, and along with it, were expected to “provide for” their sibling sisters of which there were two. The brothers built my mother-in-law a house while they amassed wealth. The girls were not exactly 3/5th of a person, but not 5/5th in terms of entitlements. It seems to me that we are doing a very similar thing in our society today. Our modernday “boys” are the white Christians, feeling aggrieved and demanding that our society be structured in ways that match their sense of entitlement. They envision participating in
identifying themselves and voting as they see fit; everybody else, not so much. To live that way seems wrong to me on several levels; worse, we seem disinclined to improve the situation absent a court order. Our Declaration of Independence asserts that we are all created equal, and have the right to “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.” If we are as “exceptional” as we like to believe, one might conclude we face a mandate to make things better for everybody. In practical terms, for me, now, that means making registration and voting as easy as possible for everybody; free and fair elections; acceptance of election results; no legislative ability to overturn election results. The list could be longer, but these are the essential ones. Our democracy depends on them. Please join me in actively supporting them here in Montana and nationwide. David Leslie Corvallis
Elephant in the room
By now I hope you have learned about the touchy subject of a GSA (Gender Sexual Alliance) club in the Florence Carlton School. The board meeting to discuss “parental permission” concerning this club was scheduled for Tuesday June 8th. Many concerned people were planning on attending. We quickly learned how the other side works however, when a notice came out early that morning stating the public meeting had been cancelled and would now be conducted strictly on zoom because of an anonymous threat of weapons possibly being there. I don’t know about you, but I am sick and tired of zoom and it needs to be abolished as a way to conduct “public” meetings. We The People better start standing up and getting in the fight before we have nothing left to fight for. The zoom meeting was an embarrassment. Chairperson Bauer controlled every aspect of what you could speak about. All comments needed to be “vague” or they would shut you down. No specific “club” could be talked about. So here’s the part about the elephant in the room; Everyone knew this whole meeting was about the GSA club on campus but Chairperson Bauer wouldn’t allow the public to have a voice. Never before has there been such contention over a club. And it stems around “Parental Permission!” Does that set off any red flags? It was stated that if the school mandates parental permission, this club would go underground. Really? Red Flags? The administration was told by the supporters of this club that “Parental Permission defeats the purpose of the club”! Huge Red Flag! Last night’s comments in opposition of parental permission was made completely clear that there is a gigantic push to undermine parental authority. Why would that be? Because the only way the enemy can destroy this country is to destroy the family! And what better way to destroy the family but to indoctrinate the children into a destructive immoral lifestyle, and turn the children against their parents. The Florence School board is so worried about the ACLU and the LGBTQP and a lawsuit that they couldn’t even make a simple decision about the definition of a club. They were amending a policy. A policy they wrote. A member of the board made a motion to include parental permission. They simply could not make a decision without consulting their attorney, over a policy they wrote in the first place. So the decision was tabled. The board kept referring to a case law that has them running scared. The case law they are referring to is the reason the Equal Access Act (EAA) was established. So, do school boards have to accept a GSA as a social club? NO! Many school boards today believe that they must allow a homosexual club in order to comply with the requirements of the Equal Access Act, or EAA. They and their attorneys have accepted the notion (deftly crafted by homosexual legal groups like the ACLU) that
this club is a “viewpoint” and thus deserves to be established on an equal footing with all other school non-curricular clubs. The law prohibits restrictions of clubs based on religious, political, philosophical or other speech. But homosexuality is not a viewpoint. It’s a known high-risk, traditionally immoral behavior. By cleverly changing the language to become a free speech issue and ignoring the implicit endorsement by GSA’s of high risk behavior (like children engaging in oral and anal sex), the legal eagles of child corruption have snookered countless public schools with the assistance of activist judges and courts. The EAA allows for exceptions to clubs that would endanger student welfare and safety. It also allows for exceptions if the club would be disruptive. Both are easy to prove in the case of “Gender Sexual Alliances”. Disruptive would definitely describe the zoom meeting last night! They are historically disruptive; they advocate a lifestyle that is not biologically determined; and they clearly endanger student health and wellbeing. The EAA allows schools to DENY any club that would be detrimental to a students well-being or one that is disruptive. GSA’s discuss and enforce sexually high risk conduct that no child should be engaging in. But GSA supporting national groups like GLSEN (gay, lesbian & straight education network) and GSA Network encourage children to learn “comprehensive sex education” either in school or to consult online sites. Some of these sites are XXX-rated and encourage children to engage in oral and anal sex, bondage, to be promiscuous, keep secrets from their parents, are anti-christian and other high risk immoral conduct. Are you ready to stand up yet? Our children are our future. Think about that for a minute. And before you bash this all over facebook, this is not about hate. This is strictly about what should and should not be allowed in our public schools. If it is not curriculum based-it should not be allowed! The school has no business teaching our children about their sexuality. Matthew 18:6 “Whoever causes one of these little ones who believe in Me to sin, it would be better for him if a millstone were hung around his neck, and he were drowned in the depth of the sea! Terri Lackey Stevensville
Educational malfeasance
Two front-page stories in last week’s Bitterroot Star should greatly concern parents, Hamilton High School Principal Mr. Ryan Wells, and Montana Superintendent of Public Instruction, Elsie Arntzen. America’s international educational ranking over the last several years has been declining while our students at Hamilton High School are distracted by planning to celebrate Gay Pride month. They propose to occupy their time by painting colorful crosswalks at the intersection of 3rd and State streets in Hamilton, to decorate the crosswalks with “the rainbow colors long associated with Gay Pride”— The Bitterroot Star, June 2, 2021. In another front-page article, the Star reports students at Florence-Carlton Middle school are distracted by organizing a “Gaystraight Alliance” group at their school, encouraged by their teacher-advisor and a few parents. Where are the adults who genuinely care about educating our children by teaching and equipping them with the knowledge, wisdom, and virtue that would enable them to thrive in real life? The product of any education is, of course, the students themselves, whether they are learning to become wise and virtuous citizens. According to World Population Review, in 2021 American K-12 education ranked 20th among developed nations: Well behind Canada, Poland, and China (#1).
• In reading, the U.S. ranked 14th, behind Estonia, Finland, and China (#1). • In math, the U.S. ranked 31st, behind Portugal, France, and China (#1). • In science, The U.S. ranked 22nd, behind Macau, Slovenia, and China (#1). America’s competitive advantage is falling behind. “In fact, U.S. test scores are now below the global average”—Kimberly Amadeo, TheBalance.com, February 28, 2021. Judging from the ambitions of some Montana students, moral pathologies have become our pedagogy. So-called social-justice issues have captured the attention of our students, apparently absent better direction from their parents and educators. Are these ignoble distractions the best use of our scholastic resources? Rather than painting “Gay Pride” colors on our streets, wouldn’t the time be better spent advancing in reading, writing, civics, and math? Noah Webster, called “the educator to the Republic,” authored his famous “Speller” (1783),“Grammar” (1784), and “Reader” (1784) which became the basis for America’s educational system. Over 100 million copies were worn out by American students as they learned their letters, their morality, and their patriotism. Webster “sought to build an educational system embodying a love of virtue, patriotism, and religion.” (Quotes from Rosalie J. Slater, Introduction to Noah Webster’s 1828 Dictionary). Noah Webster also wrote, “It is an object of vast magnitude that systems of education should be adopted and pursued which may not only diffuse a knowledge of the sciences but may implant in the minds of the American youth the principles of virtue and of liberty and inspire them with just and liberal ideas of government and with an inviolable attachment to their own country.” These lofty goals appear to be absent in our public educational system, as observed in its student-products. This should greatly concern parents, Mr. West, and Ms. Arntzen. I find it interesting (and significant) the epicenter of much social-justice activism is among school-age children. None of it is appropriate in our public schools. Dennis Hicks Hamilton
What is right?
Today many people do not know the difference between right and wrong anymore. They don’t know what truth is and how important truth is. I have heard the saying “I have my truth and you have your truth”. This is a deception and an excuse to live the way they want to live void of morals and ethics. Morals, ethics and truth no longer mean anything when you live by “your” truth and I live by “my” truth. All of a sudden there are no constants, there’s no standard to live by and chaos ensues. Do you know what I mean? Let me explain. For instance, there’s no longer male and female but a plethora of genders. For example: there is anatomical sex, cisgender, transgender, cishet, non-binary, intersex to name a few and the last I heard, there’s over 80 variations of gender. Are you as confused as I am? Obviously man in the 21st century is much more observant than our creator, God, who created man and woman. Then, another example. I’ve even read articles about theybies. Yes, theybies, not babies. They argue babies should not be identified as he’s or she’s but as theys. And then at the age of 4, yes 4, theys can then decide what they identify as. A girl, a boy, a transgender a cushier etc. What? Are you kidding? We, as a culture say you can’t legally drink alcohol until you are 21 but at the age of 4 you can decide your gender and supposedly there so many genders that I’m confused about the whole thing. But a 4 year old understands perfectly. Please, somebody pinch me and wake me up, I must be having a terrible nightmare. Oh yes, that brings me to “woke”. Obviously, if you are “woke” you See MORE LETTERS, page 14
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Bitterroot Star promise We strive to cover all the news and entertainment important to the people of the Bitterroot Valley. Our entire staff takes part in deciding what appears in these pages and all content is locally generated. If you have a story idea or want some event publicized contact any of the people you see here. Call us 406-777-3928. Printing information The Bitterroot Star is published every Wednesday by Bitterroot Star Newspaper, Co.. Periodicals postage paid at the United States Post Office in Stevensville, MT 59870. The SSP’s advertising and editorial content deadlines are Fridays at 5 p.m. Our View/Letters Star editorials frequently appear at the top of this page and are written from the position of the newspaper, usually with the influence of several people, and in the hope that they will carry the weight of our decades of leadership. The personal columns and letters appearing elsewhere on this page, and others, represent the opinions of single individuals and do not necessarily reflect the position of the newspaper. The Star welcomes and encourages your letter to the editor. Letters on local topics or issues are given priority for publication; letters should be 600 words or less and may be edited. Shorter letters generally have a better chance of prompt publication. While letters expressing appreciation for a specific, out-of-the-ordinary action are welcomed, letters with lists of names of contributors, donors or volunteers are not accepted as letters to the editor. A signature, address and telephone number (for verification, not publication) are required. We will not publish letters that are libelous or scurrilous in nature. Letters of thanks are offered at a reduced price in our display ads. Member 2016 Member 2021
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 5
Covid vaccine available for 12-year-olds and up by Nathan Boddy
“Then and now” photos of Debbie Stevens, a 57-year-old bodybuilder who just won first place in the Masters 50+ Bikini competition at the Big Sky NPC Bodybuilding Show in Missoula and is headed for national competition.
Stevensville bodybuilder headed to national contest by Victoria Howell Fifty-seven-year-old Debbie Stevens just completed her fourth bodybuilding show, finishing in first place in the Masters 50+ Bikini competition at the Big Sky National Physique Committee (NPC) Bodybuilding Show in Missoula. She’s now headed to the national stage in July in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. “It seems surreal to me, to be able to be my age and do that,” said Stevens. Stevens is a Title I K-3 para-educator at Stevensville School, where she’s been teaching for over 20 years. She started her fitness journey at 48. She said she got into bodybuilding through one of her sons. “I went through menopause at 48 and really struggled. My oldest son was just going to boot camp, I was an empty nester. My other son is a bodybuilder and he said, ‘It’s time for you to start a new chapter. I want you to come to the gym with me.’ I said I wouldn’t do it but I tried it and ended up really liking it. It really changed my life.” Later Stevens met a competition coach, Jonathon Childress, online. “He’s 27 years old and he’s a brilliant young man and competitor,” says Stevens. “He really changed my life. He believed in me and told me that I could get to a national stage. I started working with him 10 months ago and I’m headed to a national competition in July in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania.” All the coaching is done online. Childress
gives Stevens her plan and her weekly protocol for nutrition. Stevens works out at Anytime Fitness in Stevensville. She has a daily routine that includes 10,000 steps a day, “no crazy cardio.” She says she eats a fine-tuned, nutritional, balanced menu every day, and lifts weights five days a week. She lifts barbells, about 45 pounds. “I can squat 135 pounds and bench press 45-lb. dumbbells.” Stevens is excited about the Pittsburg event. However, entry fees for each category, makeup, competition suit, tanning session, airfare, lodging, will probably will be at least $2000. There are no cash prizes, trophies only. She said she might have to set up a GoFundMe site to help raise money for the trip. Her friend and fellow competitor, Stephanie Thiele, of Thiele Fitness 406 in Stevensville, is selling t-shirts to raise money for Stevens. “For someone who has never been athletic, and put my entire life on hold, this is the only thing I’ve really started and accomplished,” says Stevens. “I never thought this would happen.” And advice for others: “I want women and men to not give up on their goals and dreams. You’re not too old and it’s not too late. You can still achieve amazing fitness goals. Get up. Start. Believe and achieve. Believe in yourself, you’re a lot stronger than you think you are. Do you have to step on stage? No. But you can cut 25 years off your life. Don’t give up on yourself in your golden years.”
Ravalli County Public Health is mobilized and ready to provide the Covid vaccine to anyone who is willing to take it, from age 12 and over. Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) indicates that, as of Friday, June 11th, approximately 43% of Ravalli County had been fully vaccinated against the virus while statewide the percentage hovers around 44%. Ravalli County Public Health Director, Tiffany Webber, says that, with an overall vaccine rate that is very low in Ravalli County, having achieved the current rate for the Covid vaccine is “pretty good.” Despite a solid outlook, Ravalli County Public Health is ready for more outreach. They have initiated a project whereby County Public Health staff will come to any place of business, with their Mobile Vaccine Clinic, from Monday through Thursday, offering both Pfizer and Wyatt Boddy receiving his first dose of the Pfizer Covid vaccine (age 12 and Janssen (Johnson and 4 days). The flier for Ravalli County Public Health’s vaccine outreach effort. Johnson) vaccines. The Photo by Nathan Boddy. Pfizer is a two-dose vaccine, child vaccinated helps to protect your child and requiring the second shot 21 days following your family.” According to the CDC website, the first. Public Health began by making these “children may have some side effects after offers to businesses in the north valley, and COVID-19 vaccination. These side effects may have moved through the rosters to make offers affect their ability to do daily activities, but to businesses in Darby. As of early last week, they should go away in a few days.” At present only two businesses had taken up the offer. time, only the Pfizer vaccine is available to Also of note, the Centers for Disease Control children. has determined that the Pfizer vaccine is The Covid vaccine is available in multiple safe for children 12 and over, and the agency locations in and around Hamilton, including encourages children to receive it. “Although Ravalli County Public Health, Sapphire fewer children have been sick with COVID-19 Community Health, Marcus Daly Memorial compared to adults, children can be infected Hospital, Bitterroot Drug and Walgreens. with the virus that causes COVID-19, can get The Ravalli County Public Health sick from COVID-19, and can spread the virus department can be reached at: 406-375-6672. that causes COVID-19 to others. Getting your
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CROSSWALK: pavement painting policy heads to council continued from page one ranging from concerns for public safety, to the perceived violation of their Christian values should the proposal be granted. Some, including Bob Egusquiza, did equate any painting of crosswalks to graffiti, but also added, “This is an agenda, folks, and the agenda goes a lot deeper than a stinking crosswalk! These kids have been coerced, they have been corrupted, they have been coached to want to do this stuff!” Council members tried to limit comments to the issue of the proposed “Paint the Pavement” policy, but most speakers continued to make their arguments in reference to the proposed rainbow crosswalk. When Town Planner, Matthew Rohrbach, was asked how certain elements within an application package would be interpreted, he responded that it would be up to the discretion of the City Council, a statement which drew mutters and even boos from many in the crowd. Ultimately, the Council voted to send the policy to a formal City Council meeting for approval with the only change being the inclusion of language that would require applicants to show how their proposal met the mission and vision statements for the City of Hamilton. Those statements are posted below. The last agenda item for the meeting was intended for public comment on the rainbow crosswalk proposal. Councilor Claire Kemp pointed out that, since no policy had yet been adopted, any discussion for a specific project was essentially a moot point. Nonetheless, speakers were implored to limit their comments to three minutes and the crowd was asked to refrain from verbal outbursts. Most speakers did respect the time limit, but applause and verbal outbursts were common.
The majority of those who spoke were strongly against the rainbow-colored crosswalk. While some of the concern was placed upon traffic safety, many of the comments included religious, moral and social justification for opposing the project. One Hamilton resident stated that putting a rainbow on a city crosswalk would be, “totally unfair and discriminatory” while Terri Jarvis, of Hamilton, suggested that Pro-Life, NRA, and support for Israel should all be considered for future projects if the rainbow crosswalk were acceptable. Glen Bohlander had concerns about the project as well, citing his Christianity as being at odds with its message, but directed his comments to the individual members of the Council, saying, “I know that the first thing about Christians is that we’re supposed to be Christ-like, and I hope to portray some of that to you folks as well.” He ended by telling the Council that he appreciated them, and that they “have a hard job.” His sentiment was echoed by Robert Malis of Hamilton who spoke loudly on several occasions, urging respect and asking that everyone grant others a chance to be heard. His closing statement was followed by cheers when he suggested, “We’re all Americans! All of us! Why don’t we paint it red, white and blue, people?” Raena Criner cited Proverb 16:5 (The Lord detests all the proud of heart), and followed by saying that the proposal was “demonic in nature and part of the anti-Christ agenda.” She went on to say that Satan was twisting the rainbow to “symbolize an exalt cry among homosexuals and transgendered persons, both
of which are an abomination to God.” James Rummel of Corvallis also took issue with the LGBTQ community, noting, “The homosexual community does not want acceptance. They want celebration. They want us to celebrate them. They want a celebration of life. Acceptance is not good enough for them.” Letitia Roberts didn’t think the paint should go on a sidewalk or crosswalk due to safety, but she expressed that Christians weren’t supposed to judge, and stated “I don’t remember anywhere in my Bible where is says, ‘Jesus was offended.’ Being offended is a choice.” She also said that she’d prepared for the hearing by reaching out to a man she knows, who is part of the LGBTQ community. She reported being told that he, himself, had come very close to suicide as a young man, until having seen a rainbowcolored flag in a store. Said Roberts, “That little sticker let him know that other people knew he existed, and that he mattered.” Of the citizens who spoke in favor of the proposal, one was Frances Carrasco, who’d first brought the proposal to the COW two weeks prior. She thanked the Council for their work on the policy, and expressed her disappointment at all the “negative comments.” Said Carrasco, “I thought a project about inclusion would be received really positively.” Carrasco went on to express her increased dedication to the project by saying, “Seeing all the hateful and harmful words made me more motivated to do this project, because it has given me a taste of what LGBTQ, people of color, disabled people and more, deal with as underrepresented members of Hamilton.” She also stated that, “Many times the city has to pay
for the supplies needed, but we have the funds committed.” Similar comments were made by those in support of the proposal, including Mae Foresta from Stevensville who said, “All this opposition should only further the point that there is a whole community of people here that are unrecognized and don’t feel safe.” The Hamilton City Council would still have to adopt the draft policy in order for a “Paint the Pavement” project to be reviewed under the new policy, therefore, no decision was made. Each of the Council members thanked the public for their participation. Councilor Robin Pruitt speculated that a crosswalk may not be the answer, but noted how such a large turnout against the proposal might illustrate, “what it might be like to be in the minority in this room and in this community.” THE MISSION OF THE CITY OF HAMILTON IS TO PROVIDE FOR THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY AND PROMOTE THE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL WELL-BEING OF ITS CITIZENS. -The City Council adopted the MISSION STATEMENT in February 1993. HAMILTON WILL REMAIN A FRIENDLY SAFE PLACE THAT VALUES DIVERSITY AND A SPIRIT OF COMMUNITY WHILE CONTINUING TO PRESERVE ITS NATURAL BEAUTY, HISTORY, AND CULTURE. -The Vision Committee adopted the VISION STATEMENT in July 1994.
FESTIVAL: Western Heritage Days will kick things off
continued from page one
rummage sale and 50-Mile Garage Sale continue all day. There will be pony rides for the kids at the farmers market and the fire department will offer free rides on the antique fire engine on Saturday afternoon. American Legion Post 94 will be selling barbecued chicken to go at Veterans Park starting at 10:30 a.m. until sold out for all the 50-Mile Garage Salers that will be coming through Stevensville. The Chuck Wagon Cook-off takes place at Priest Park from 8 a.m. to 12 noon with meals served to the public from 12:30 to 1 p.m. (Tickets available online at www.bitterrootstar.com) Horsedrawn wagons will take people to and from downtown to Priest Park between 11 a.m. and 3 pm. St. Mary’s Mission will be open from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. both days with tours available. A Salish cultural presentation with
drumming and dancing starts at 1 p.m. Families won’t want to miss “Cowboy Andy & The Salamanders” from 1 to 2:30 p.m. on the 3rd Street stage across from the Stevensville Hotel. The beer garden on the hotel lawn and the food court on E. 3rd will open at 12 noon. Kids’ bounce house, climbing wall and other fun activities will be open in the Rocky Mountain Bank parking lot from 2 to 10 p.m. “Outlaws and Lawmen” will perform on the 3rd Street stage from 3:30 to 6 p.m. Rounding out the evening will be “Annalisa Rose” from 7 to 10 p.m. This rising star is returning to her hometown from Nashville to do this special performance that you won’t want to miss. She will be performing with the Bourbon Boys and special guest Caroline McCarty.
Stevensville Western Heritage Days is brought to you by major sponsors: A2Z Personnel, First Security Bank, Farmers State Bank and Ammo and More; as well as many other local businesses. All proceeds will benefit the Kids Backpack Programs at Stevensville and Lone Rock Schools. The Backpack Programs provide food for students to take home on the weekends to make sure they don’t go hungry. There will be a food drive for the backpack program all weekend and during the week following Western Heritage Days. Look for the little chuck wagons at Burnt Fork Market, Super 1 Foods and on the corner of 3rd & Main in front of Valley Drug. For more information about Stevensville Western Heritage Days, contact Victoria Howell at 207-8793.
Thank You For Making Party In The Park for Bob a huge success! • Town Of Stevensville • Stevensville Police Department • The Civic Club • The American Legion Post 95 • Mission Bistro • Pink Grizzly • Great Burn Brewery • Wildwood Brewery • Blacksmith Brewery • Zip Beverage • Montana Distillery • Backroads Cider • Cowboy Troys • Lifeline • Grub Truck • House of Ferments • Montana Madre • Nail Trix • Stevensville Hardware • Boutique 327 • Eddie-O Outfitters • Double Up Outfitters • Cottage Gardens • Whitetail Golf Course • Soulsby Automotive • Mountain Butterfly • Burnt Fork Roofing • Mama’s A Hot Mess • Burnt Fork Market • Missoula’s Lowes • Starrett Artists • Peacock Floral
• Meandering Moose • Goody Goo Goo Gumdrops • Bitterroot Star • Cash & Carry • Alpenstuble Inc • Debbie Brown • Peggy Steffes • Paul Larson • Darcy Glunt • Cedar & Sage Herbal Medicine • The Crystal Limit • Perfect Touch Massage • Audrea Tribbensee • Loree West • Carrie Brushia • Janet & Dick Oestreich Thank You to those who gave generous donations! And to everyone who purchased auction items! • Betsy Ballard • Cynthia Fulks • Sandy Gates • Brad & Dee Kelly • Ed & Colleen • Bob & Dawn Bennett
• Bobby Sonsteng • John & Laurie Sherve • Uncle Bill • Cathy Scholtens • Karen & Bill Galliher • Charity & Gerry Rondo • Becky Howard • Marky Murphy • Gary & Monica Gales • Steve Schwartz • Tony & Rae Rivera • Rosalee Shorter • Tracy Montague • Renae Franklin
• Joanne Nygaard & Bob Gartner • Bruce Gericke & Colleen Rebellino • Sharon Dedmon • Marcia Prather & Mark Sampson
• Brian Lohans • Larry Ballantyne • Maureen Neff • Mike & Joan Prather • Victoria Howell • Dan & Deb Severson • David & Constance
Rakiecki • Dennis & Wendy Lenahan • Ballentine • Steve & Linda Kauffman • Brian Logan
All of Our Amazing Volunteers! • Thanks to All Of The American Legion Volunteers • Randy Hodges • Gretchen Langton • Mariane Maynard • Erik & Tina Svaren • Cat Burtchett • Chip Foster
• Sean McGrath • Melora Neaves • Mike McBride • Betsy Ballard • Cheryl & Chuck Burgmeier • Wendy Moon • Amanda Smith • Leanna Costanza • Joe Carper • Kristine Porter • JoEllen Maynard • Tasha Chapman • Mason & Andrea Buchanan • Jessica Scheible • Kimmi Abdoul & Rob Wogsland • Dawn Arey • Trish Olwell • Kathleen Olear • Tyler & Lisa Decker • Beth Schaefer • Chris Richard Our Musicians • Andre Floyd • Shane Clouse • Bitterroot Jug Band Our Auctioneers • Jim Pfau • Bill Mcnulty Thank You to anyone we may have missed!!!
Stevensville Senior Center is now serving meals at the center Monday through Friday at 11:30 am
You can still pick up your weekly meals on Monday at 11-11:30 am. • Coffee Club at 8 am Mon.-Fri. • Exercise 10 am Tues. & Thurs. • Quilters the 2nd Tues. each month at 6 pm
Calendar
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 8
• Pinochle at 7 pm Sat. • Afternoon Pinochle starting Fri., June 18 at 12:15 pm
Gamblers Anon
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
WIC clinics
Ravalli County WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library.Call 406-802-7180 for more information.
Family Shelter
The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.
Three Mile Coffee
Three Mile Coffee Club meets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For information call Colleen at 777-3710.
BitterRodders Cars
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BitterRodders Car Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st in Hamilton. Everyone welcome. For more information call 961-3136.
Divorce Care
Divorce Care is a free class/support group for those needing support, hope, and healing during and after divorce. Divorce Care meets at Hamilton Assembly of God every Wednesday evening at 6:30 starting February 3 through April 29. Anyone can join at any time. Please see Divorcecare.org for more information.
Soul Suppers
Soul Suppers in Stevensville Served Every Wednesday! Free home cooked carry out meals with a message served every Wed.evening at 6 p.m. 101 Church St. Stevensville. For more information, contact Corey at 406) 214-8708.
Victor Senior Center
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Now serving meals at the Center Monday Wednesday and Friday at 11:30 am. You can still order and pickup meals to go on Monday from 11:00 am to 11:30 am. Meals served at the Center Mon, Wed,Fri at 11:30 am Bridge every Tuesday @ 1:00pm Bingo every Tuesday @ 6:00 pm starting May 4. Pokeno 2nd and 4th Friday @ 1:00 For info or to volunteer call 642-3320.
Hamiton Senior Center
Canasta (Hand and Foot), 1st & 3rd Mondays, 12:30 Cribbage: Hamilton Senior Center, 2nd and 4th Mondays, 12:30 p.m. Bring your favorite board. Pinochle: Hamilton Senior Center, every Friday, 1:00 p.m. $2 charge.
Hamilton Golden Age Club
Pinochle, 2nd & 4th Wednesdays, 1:00, $2. No food please. Coffee provided.
Stevensville Senior Center
Stevenville Senior Center is now serving meals at the Center Monday thru Friday at 11:30 am. You can still pick up your weekly meals on Monday at 11 am to 11:30 am Coffee Club at 8:00 am M-F Exercise 10:00 am Tuesday and Thursday Quilters the second Tuesday of each month 6:00 pm Starting Saturday June 12th Pinochle at 7 pm Afternoon Pinochle Starting Friday June 18th 12:15 pm Bridge starting June 21st at 12:15 pm
Sapphire Quilt Club 2nd Tuesday of each
month, Senior Citizens Center, Stevensville. Doors open 6 p.m. Start 6:30 p.m.
Hamilton Parkinson’s Disease Support Group
We are up and running again. New location. We meet 3rd Monday of the month. At 1:00 pm. We will be meeting at the Corvallis United Methodist Church (youth center) to the east of the church. Located on the corner of Corvallis Cemetery Rd. and Eastside Heat. Big white church. Any questions please call me. Ginny Wigen, coordinator HPDSG. 406-544-9186.
St. Mary’s Parish Mass
Join us for the Mass of the Body and Blood of Christ June 5-6th! ***New Mass times: Sat. 5 PM and Sun. 11:00 AM*** (Currently no Mass scheduled for St. Joseph’s, Florence).
Victor Heritage Museum
The Victor Heritage Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. through Labor Day. The Museum is in downtown Victor on the corner of Main Street and Blake Street. Contact the Musuem at 406-642-3997; victormuseum@cybernet1.com; or Suzanne at 406-363-3165.
Summer Concert Series
Join us for a Summer Concert Series in Stevensville of LIVE professional performances. July 9: A Grand Night for Singing (Outdoors), and August 13: The Joys of Chamber Music with a special performance from UM Music School Faculty (Indoors). Open to everyone, bring your family and friends, and for the outdoor venues, a lawn chair and your snacks. Music begins at 7:00 PM at The United Methodist Church, 216 College Street, Stevensville. The events are free. Any goodwill donations will support the Sapphire Early Learning Center opening in the fall.
North Valley Public Library events
spectrUM Summer of Science at the Library – Thursdays, June 17, July 8, & August 19, 10:30 am-12:30 pm The University of Montana spectrUM Discovery Area and the Bitterroot STEAM Advisory Group have teamed up with libraries and community organizations throughout the Bitterroot to share exhibits and activities that explore problem solving all summer long. How can you be a problem solver? Stop by North Valley Public Library on Thursdays June 17, July 8, & August 19 from 10:30 am-12:30 pm for free, hands-on activities and exhibits. Registration is REQUIRED. Sign up on the Library’s events calendar, via the website, stop by the Library, or give us a call at 406-7775061. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org, on Facebook or Instagram, or give us a call at 406.777.5061.
Christian Festival
Montana Christian Festival 2021 “Living in God’s Creation” will take place July 1-July 4. This outdoor family Christian festival is open to anyone who would like to enjoy a weekend of Christian study, an abundance of live music, outdoor activities, good food and fellowship with Christians from all around the country. We invite you to unplug from the cares of the world and join us at beautiful Lubrecht Experimental Forest in Greenough, MT where you can enjoy the beauty and serenity of God’s magnificent creation as we delve into “Living in God’s Creation.” To learn more and to register go to: www. montanachristianfestival.com
North Valley Library board meeting
The North Valley Public Library Board of Trustees will hold their regular board meeting on Wednesday, June 16 at 3 p.m. in the Community Room of the Library. Meeting agendas are posted the Friday before the meeting. More information can be found on their website at northvalleylibrary.org/board-information.
Library Brews for Books fundraiser
The North Valley Public Library Foundation and Wildwood Brewery are teaming up
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Main St. Stevensville • 777-0028
Worship at 11:00 a.m. In this Church there shall be no outcasts. for Brews for Books to raise funds for the Stevensville library. This pint night event is planned from 5 to 8 p.m. June 16 at the brewery, 4018 U.S. Hwy. 93 North, Stevensville. During this time, a portion of the proceeds from every pint the brewery sells will go toward Stevensville library. For more information, contact Foundation President Carla Sanders at harrisonsanders@aol. com.
Back Country Horsemen
Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen meet in person on June 17 at the Three Sisters group site near Lake Como, across from the Rock Creek Horse Camp. Program speaker is Rebecca Shufelt, Bitterroot National Forest’s Recreation, Wilderness and Trails Program Manager. Members and guests can socialize from 6:30-7:00; the meeting runs from 7-8:30 p.m. Bring a chair because picnic table seating is limited, and please provide your own dinner—there is no potluck. For more information, please call Gene at 208-310-6326 or check out the website at www. bcmt.org/bitterroot. Find us on Facebook at: Bitter Root Back Country Horsemen (BR BCH).
North Valley Pachyderm Club
The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, June 18 at 12 noon at The Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speakers will be members of The LifeGuard Group. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
Wings Program volunteer orientation Do you love horses and donkeys? Are you looking for a way to connect with others while helping your community? And enjoy the beauty of Montana! The Wings Program in Corvallis is looking for more volunteers. We have a small core group of dedicated volunteers who need more help. We recently had a significant increase in the horses and donkeys in our care. As a volunteer with The Wings Program you will be helping us with rehabilitating and transitioning horses and donkeys to new homes, and supporting the sanctuary equines that are not available for adoption for various reasons. We have a variety of volunteer needs including daily chores, mucking, feeding, grooming, socializing equines, ranch repair and various projects. Our next volunteer orientation is Saturday, June 19 from 10-11am. There will also be a volunteer work day at the facility from 11-4. Lunch will be provided. It’s a fun way to meet the volunteers and enjoy a BBQ! Please visit our website for more details http://www. wingsprograms.com. Click on the volunteer page to see our volunteer application. The Wings Program ~ 208 Rusty Spur Way, Corvallis, MT 59828 ~ 406-363-3346 ~ wingsprograms@live.com
St. Mary’s Mission Saturday Series
On Saturday, June 19 at 11 a.m. Chris Weatherly, historic preservation specialist, will talk about the restoration and preservation work he has accomplished at Historic St. Mary’s Mission over the last 20 years. He will feature each historic building on site. Chris is a professional in his field and is the ‘keeper’ of the log buildings that date back to 1862. Chris was involved with extensive historic restoration at Monticello in Charlottesville, VA before moving to Montana. His preservation expertise includes contracts with MT Fish Wildlife and Parks from Virginia City to Chief Plenty Coup’s house in Pryor. He did interior and exterior restoration on a homestead cabin outside of Dillon for the Bureau of Land Management. Many historic features in Western Montana have benefited from his passion for history and the dedicated skills of Chris Weatherly.
Celebrate “Montana’s First Best Place.” St. Mary’s Village was settled 48 years before Statehood!!! This year Historic St. Mary’s Mission in Stevensville celebrates 180 years since the founding in 1841. To recognize this significant anniversary in Montana’s history we are hosting the Saturday Series. You will hear more in-depth history of early Montana; facts and information not included on a tour. Location: 315 Charlos Street, Stevensville ~ 406-7775734 ~ No reservations needed. Dress for the weather, bring a lawn chair if needed. Historic St. Mary’s Mission is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. for guided tours.
Sons of Norway
Sons of Norway Lodge will host a picnic, June 20th, to celebrate Syttende Mai, the longest day of the year and the National Day of Norway. The picnic will begin at 6:00 p.m., Sunday afternoon, at Summerdale Park near Corvallis. Tired Iron Club members are especially invited as well as any one interested in Scandinavian culture. The Lodge will furnish vikings as well as drinks. Accompanying dishes and desserts can be contributed by attendees to compliment the meal. Any questions, contact Jackie at 961-4538.
Commodities distribution
The Council on Aging will be at the Three Mile Fire Station on Wednesday, June 23 from 7:30 t 8:30 a.m. to distribute commodities as well as vouchers for the farmers market.
Stevensville Museum rummage sale
The Stevensville Historical Museum’s Annual Rummage Sale will be held during Stevensville Western Heritage Days, June 25 & 26 from 8 to 5 on Friday and 8 to 3 on Saturday. The rummage sale will be held at the Stevensville Museum’s lawn at 517 Main St., Stevensville. Donations of clean used rummage-sale items are needed for this fundraiser, so please consider cleaning out your closets and storage spaces to look for items to donate. Donated items can be delivered to the Stevensville Museum on Wednesday and Thursday, June 23 & 24 from 11:00 to 5:30. To make other arrangements for the donation of rummage sale items please call 550-3672 or 7775126. This fund-raiser is an easy way to support the Stevensville Historical Museum in their effort to preserve and protect the local history.
Soil Grazing Workshop
A soil grazing workshop with Jim Gerrish will take place July 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come join our next Building a Stronger Bitterroot event with special guest and soil grazing expert Jim Gerrish followed by a community BBQ! In this three hour workshop, Jim will teach us about how to understand and manage four key ecosystem processes to regenerate healthy soils and landscapes. He will teach us how to: effectively manage grazing to capture more solar energy; improve water cycle function; create effective mineral cycling, and nurture biodiversity on your farm or ranch He will also explain why managing time rather than just space is critical to effective grazing management. We will begin the workshop with a 1-hour classroom session to explain the basic principles of Management Intensive Grazing. The remainder of the morning (approximately 2 hours) will be spent as a ‘pasture-walk’ format to observe and explore the four ecosystem processes in action. Please dress for being in the elements and taking a walk. Suggested Donation for Speaker Fee & BBQ: $25 (no one will be turned away for lack of funds) See you July 3rd! The Building A Stronger Bitterroot initiative is a way for us to gather as community, share knowledge, build our collective capacity, and move our valley forward toward a more resilient future. -Bristol, Cobey, and Laura- the Building A Stronger Bitterroot Team Register at https:// www.eventbrite.com/e/ building-a-stronger-bitterrootsoil-grazing-workshop-with-jimgerrish-tickets-151745056549
Obituary Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 9
Allen Clifford Bjergo Corvallis – On Wednesday, June 9, 2021, Allen Clifford Bjergo passed away at the age of 85 due to health complications. Allen was born in Ottertail County, Minnesota on September 14th, 1935, to Adolph and Alice Bjergo, where he grew up on a general stock and dairy farm and went to a one-room elementary school, reached by skis in the winter. Allen enlisted in the Army National Guard during his senior year in high school near the end of the Korean War. He served as a platoon sergeant in an atomic cannon battalion in Germany at the time of the Hungarian Revolution and had assignments all over Europe. He was later commissioned and was recalled to serve as Deputy Chief-CORDS/ agriculture in IV Corps, during the Vietnam War. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from North Dakota State University in 1962, lived in Norway for a year as a Fulbright Scholar at the Royal Agricultural University, got a Master’s Degree at New Mexico State University, and after returning from Vietnam, earned a Ph.D. in agricultural economics at Cornell University. He retired as an extension specialist and professor from Montana State University in 1993. His work also included teaching at the University of Montana and presenting programs all over Montana, as well as serving on several western state committees with emphasis on alternatives for agriculture and rural development. Allen returned to Vietnam several times after the war and was gratified to see projects which he had helped start providing widespread benefits to rural people. He said, “I have some
distinction of being shot at by communists on two fronts at earlier times, and being feted by the communists at banquets when I went back later, and probably among the few Americans who have been in Red Army garrisons.” Allen also carried out 20 assignments to fifteen countries, accompanied by his wife, Jackie on several pioneering projects before and after the fall of communism in Russia, Kazakhstan, Bulgaria, Czech and Slovak Republics, and Hungary. He returned to Bulgaria, Kazakhstan, Siberia and Moldova. Other strenuous work and travel included Bangladesh, Mongolia, Cambodia and Armenia, still dodging around armed conflicts. His life recalled bits of episodes similar to movies like “Apocalypse Now, Argo, Belly of the Beast, Platoon” and others. He and Jackie also visited relatives in Norway and traveled to Sweden, Italy, Australia and New Zealand. Allen was a long-term member of several boards of directors, including the Trapper Creek Job Corps community council, Montana Land Reliance, National Center for Appropriate
Technology, and other groups. He was president of the Corvallis Civic Club and the Bitter Root Resource Conservation and Development Area, and was a member of the Corvallis American Legion Post 91 and Grace Lutheran Church. Allen was proud of his Norwegian heritage and was able to trace his ancestry back to Harold-the Fair-Haired and Erik Bloodaxe in the 900’s AD, and had grandmothers from Scottish and Irish royalty. His grandparents all immigrated from Norway to Canada and onward to North Dakota and Minnesota, where his parents met, and where he managed their farm as a teenager after his father’s early death. He was a charter member of Bitterrootdalen Lodge, Sons of Norway and enjoyed teaching Norwegian and history to its members. Through it all, his primary focus was on family. He married Norita Clark in 1958, they were later divorced. He married Jackie Jacks Nordheim in 1977 and they had a blended family of eight children, 24 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren. The grandchildren loved
being introduced to hunting, fishing, horseback riding, branding and other ranch chores in the same Bitter Root land which their parents had experienced. He enjoyed photography, painting and amateur writing. One of his favorite past times was telling stories to family and friends. Allen was preceded in death by his parents and brother Gerald, and is survived by his wife, Jackie; sister; Helen Gookin; sons: Erik Nordheim, Karl (Christina)Bjergo and Kyle (Jessica) Nordheim, as well as daughters, Kristi (Crediton) Ojigho, Karen Linarez, Kelsey (David) Viega, Anne (John) Tafoya, Sunan (David) Laws and foster daughter Orapin “Pat” Deesawadi, in Thailand. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 10th at 2pm at Grace Lutheran Church located at 270 Hattie Lane in Hamilton, MT. Following the service will be an interment with military honors at the Corvallis Cemetery. A celebration of Allen’s life will follow at the Grace Lutheran Church. If you would like to honor Allen, you may make a donation to Teller Wildlife Refuge at PO Box 548, Corvallis, MT 59838 or at tellerwildlife. org. Memorials in his name may be made to the Montana Land Reliance and Grace Lutheran Church. Allen’s loved ones would like to thank the Marcus Daly Memorial Hospitals’ doctors and nurses, who made his end of days as comfortable as possible, for their compassion and kind care and treatment. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.
Robert Cumming After a valiant nine-month battle to return to normalcy, Bob left us on Thursday, May 27th. Throughout his fight he embodied the courage represented by the lion in the Cumming crest, a mainstay in his Scottish heritage. Bob was born in Altadena, California. He greatly enjoyed time with his father, especially camping. At 14 he began working as a wrangler in Wyoming. During his five years working on the Few Acres ranch he became proficient as a guide, fisherman, wilderness cook, and horseman. Bob studied photography at the Brooks Institute in Santa Barbara. He later taught classes in the technical aspects of photography and shared his love for outdoor photography. Most memorable were his trips to Anza-Borrego, Joshua Tree, and Bodie. He was employed by the community college system in California for 30 years. After the passing of his beloved wife Pattie in 2007, Bob began searching for areas to retire including Durango, Colorado; Prescott, Arizona;
and Cody, Wyoming. His continued search included Florence, Montana where he and Pattie had visited friends in the past. This is where he found the location for his cherished Ranch, on a slope of the Bitterroot Mountains. He fell in love with the great meadow surrounded by the pine, aspen, and apple trees. The little house needed work, in which he took great pleasure in supervising. His life on the Ranch was what he had sought. He immersed himself in the surrounding
Charles D. Williford Florence - Charles D. Williford, born March 16,1948 in Deer Lodge, MT went home to be with his Lord and Savior on June 4, 2021. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Bonnie Williford and two children Mark D. Williford and April Gregg (Joel). He has five grandchildren: Aaron, Jarrett, Emily, Ian and Noah, 6 +1 brothers and sisters and numerous nieces and nephews. He loved serving his community as a Missoula City Firefighter from 1971-2006 and was proud to be a Vietnam veteran. His life will be celebrated at a later date. Condolences can be left for the family at www. gardencityfh.com.
Outstanding in his field Merle Unruh
Call today
Talk to Merle for all your Real Estate Needs! Hamilton 363-4700
country, towns, and people. He loved participating in and guiding the Stevensville Western Heritage Days as well as using his chuck wagon in the chili cook offs. His philanthropy not only touched many in the Bitterroot Valley, but included the Friends of Bodie, National Marine Sanctuary Foundation, Saline Valley Preservation Association, the Stevensville Main Street Association, the Ned Larson Memorial Scholarship and many others.
Death Notices
Bob especially enjoyed his July 4th cookout, old west shootout, and entertaining in his historic town of Sweeney Creek. Those who were fortunate enough to experience Bob’s culinary expertise will recall his rack of lamb, chicken marsala, and rare pork loin. But his greatest joy was in having the company of his friends, whether across his dining room table or across the country by phone. Bob had always felt his love for cooking and camping outdoors and exploring old mines and ghost towns was influenced by a past life where he was a wrangler, miner, or a “cookie” on several cattle drives. Bob is survived by many in the Cumming Clan including siblings, nieces and nephews, and great nieces and nephews. Bob will be truly missed by all whom had their lives touched by him. Rest In Peace buddy, but get those Dutch ovens started. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfueralhome.com.
Crossword Puzzle
Dale H. Smith Corvallis - Dale H. Smith, 93, passed away in the night, Tuesday, June 8, 2021, at home with family by his side. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com Donald D. Cook Stevensville - Donald D. “Don” Cook, 74, passed away unexpectedly, Wednesday, June 9, 2021. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
ACROSS 1. Tail movement 4. Breakfast dish 10. Possessive pronoun 11. Part of a sentence 12. Unrefined metal 13. Aide 14. Hair ornament 16. Concord e.g. 17. Eye 18. Book of Samuel abbr. 20. Like 22. Canines 26. Swish 29. Boredom 31. Fairy King 33. Tell a tall tale 34. On ship 35. Annex 36. “Melts in your mouth” candy brand 37. New Jersey’s neighbor
DOWN 1. Curl 2. Eagle’s nest 3. Loon-like seabird 4. Reverberate 5. Dales 6. Girl 7. Glasses 8. Usages 9. Fresh 15. Undergarment 19. Total 21. Violent outbreak 23. Greased 24. Wile 25. Scent 26. Soil 27. Father 28. Gofer 30. Ceases 32. Radiation dose © Feature Exchange
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 10
Council: down by half continued from page one
was to seek indemnification or not. But the money had to be put back in the account. As soon as I was made aware, I wrote a personal check to the Town… No money transferred from the Town’s account into my account. There was no cover up…” After hearing the mayor’s account of what happened, Vick said he felt he didn’t need a trial but he still felt an investigation would be necessary. Although this item was not on the agenda, Vick made a motion to have an independent investigation done using someone other than town attorney Scott Owens. Shourd recommended that the council request all the documentation related to the issue and review that and decide how to proceed. Vick said he didn’t want attorney Owens to do the investigation but would rather have a third party. He felt Owens was “too close to the facts.” Devlin said she thought that would be an extra cost to the Town for no good reason. “As long as we can show that the check that was written with a P.O. (purchase order) and signed by the mayor and finance office and that there was a personal check written by the mayor that rectified the payment that was made to the attorney, then we’re square,” said council member Paul Ludington. “If we want to say that it was an attempt by the mayor to do something that shouldn’t have been done, that’s a matter of opinion, that will always be a matter of opinion…” “Once I became aware of this situation,” said Devlin, “I asked for the documentation and reviewed it… I don’t know why anybody else here didn’t do that… We don’t’ always have to run right for somebody’s throat. Sometimes it’s simple. Sometimes it doesn’t require thousands of dollars. All we have to do is go in and say, ‘Let me see.’” Vick said he has asked the mayor for pertinent documentation before and hasn’t gotten it. The mayor said he could produce the documentation as soon as the next day. Vick ending up rescinding his motion calling for an investigation and then made a motion to have the mayor provide the requested documentation for review by the council. In public comment, Jim Tadvick said, “I have a problem with all of this. Is there a whistleblower involved? What was the dollar amount? Was someone terminated? I think an investigation needs to be done as a taxpayer.” “My question is, where did the money come from?” said Leanna Rodabaugh. “What fund did you take it out of? The fact that you are willing to just pass this by… You are now all involved. This is criminal. And so are all of you.” Then in the middle of public comment, Vick amended his motion to include details of Robert Underwood’s early departure. A few minutes later he rescinded the amendment. “I would like to know where that money came from?” said Leslie Tadvick. “I don’t think we can let this drop… In the real world… you would have been (and she made a slicing motion with her hand) bye… I think you should resign tonight.” The motion for requested documentation was approved unanimously. Vick said he would like the council to make a determination at their next meeting on whether they still need to do an investigation. Craig Caprara of HDR Engineering gave a presentation on the Preliminary Engineering Report that has just been completed for the town’s water system. They evaluated the water supply, the distribution and the storage. They looked at a 20-year plan which includes a projected population growth rate of 2.1% and the possibility of annexation around the town. The Town’s water supply is healthy through 2040, according to the report. Unaccounted for water in the system is between 28-74% of water produced per month. Improvements to the distribution system could result in regaining water in the system. Currently the system
does not meet the 3500-gallon-per-minute requirement for fire suppression along Main Street. The Town is also short on storage, about 235,000 gallons short in 2020, a projected 280,000 gallons short in 2040. The report considers various alternatives for storage, including rehabbing the existing storage tank on Middle Burnt Fork and adding another tank, or building all new tanks, in various locations. Other locations mentioned in the report were the Wye area and the airport. In addition, the PER recommends water main replacements and water system SCADA (hardware and software) improvements. The recommended improvements are estimated to cost $1,500,400 for a 1-milliongallon storage tank; $623,900 to upgrade to 12-inch water mains on Main Street; and $265,000 for SCADA improvements, for a total project cost of $2,389,300. Caprara said that the project could be funded with money from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). Stevensville is set to get $529,270 over the next two years. Stevensville is also eligible for $327,806 in grant funds which require a 25% match. Money is also available through a competitive grant program of up to $25 million through the State of Montana. Caprara presented a possible scenario for Stevensville which would result in $3,581,835 in total funding. If the Town was successful in getting that amount, Caprara said they could also do other improvements to the water system, like fixing or replacing some of the smaller water mains on the side streets. The application for the competitive grant is due by July 15 with determination by the end of August. Caprara recommended that the Town apply. Ludington made a motion to move forward with the grant application for ARPA funds for water system improvements. If the Town gets the grant, there will be no cost to taxpayers. The motion was approved unanimously. In other business: • Finance officer Robert Underwood submitted his letter of resignation. Although he had said he would work until a replacement was found, Thursday was his last day on the job. • The pool was expected to open on Monday, June 14. • The council approved a special event alcohol use permit for Bikers Against Bullies. • The council approved removal of two maple trees on E. 5th. In his executive report, the Mayor noted that the town had not received any statements of qualification for the position of town attorney. He said they will re-advertise for that position. In council comments, Vick said he went to the extreme of asking for a trial of the mayor so that they could come to a happy medium to get the documentation and go from there. “The only reason I came out with this today, I believe there’s a very good chance that nothing wrong happened but the public needs to know what happened. The public needs to know that something happened with their money that was a little cattywampus.” He also said that several people came to him with concern over the town’s logo being switched to rainbow colors in honor of Pride Month. All the council members praised Patrick Shourd for his service to the community and wished him well. Shourd has resigned for personal reasons. The day after the council meeting, Dempsey Vick submitted a letter of resignation, effective immediately. He said he wanted to focus on himself, his career and his future and that his resignation had nothing to do with his issues with the mayor. With the previous resignation of Shourd, the council will now have only two members, Paul Ludington and Jaime Devlin, who will have to appoint two members to fill the two unexpired terms of Shourd and Vick.
Serving the Bitterroot Valley in the areas of tax law, business and estate planning, and real estate property law.
JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682 115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com Ready to help.
Stevi mayor compiles paper trail over legal fee payment
Council member Dempsey Vick resigns by Victoria Howell Following allegations by council president Dempsey Vick of mayoral impropriety that surfaced at the June 10th town council meeting, on Friday Stevensville Mayor Brandon Dewey released a packet of information pertaining to the payment for legal fees he incurred following a lawsuit related to a recall attempt in 2020. Dewey sued Leanna Rodabaugh, the person who filed the petition to get the recall of the mayor on the ballot. Dewey lost the lawsuit to stop the recall and the recall election went forward but the recall attempt ultimately failed, with Dewey remaining in office. Although the invoice from the law firm of Boone Karlberg PC was dated September 11, 2020, Dewey told the Star he did not receive it until December 21, 2020. He submitted the claim for payment of the legal fees on December 21, 2020 (the copy of the claim mistakenly shows a date of June 4, 2019 which is incorrect since the recall attempt didn’t even happen until 2020; a simple clerical error, according to the mayor). Also on December 21, Dewey sent a memorandum to Robert Underwood, the Town’s financial officer, in which he outlined the reasons why he believed the claim should be paid. An undated purchase authorization for the Boone Karlberg PC invoice was signed by only the mayor. According to Dewey, the purchase authorization is used for the purposes of coding for the Town’s accounting software. The claim of $12,020.20 was paid to the law firm of Boone Karlberg PC on December 23, 2020. However, the set of claims which contained the payment for those legal fees hadn’t been approved by the council because they were paid out of cycle due to the Christmas holiday. They were supposed to be brought to the council for approval at the first meeting in January 2021 but that never happened. In April of this year, on the advice of the Town’s attorney, Scott Owens, Dewey paid the Town $12,020.20 out of his personal checking account as a reimbursement of the payment for legal fees. Both Underwood and Dewey signed a statement acknowledging that the claims 16426-16456, which include the payment to the law firm, were paid out of cycle without ratification by the town council. The statement also says, “The oversight was discussed with the administrative staff and protocol in place to prevent further oversights.” The statement is not dated. At the June 10 council meeting, council president Dempsey Vick brought up the issue, asking that the mayor be put on trial for misuse of public funds (see accompanying story). In a press release he sent to the Bitterroot Star earlier that day, Vick stated, “In late April or early May of 2021, I was notified by the Stevensville Town Attorney, Scott Owens, that Mayor Brandon Dewey
had performed an out of cycle claim in order to cover the losses from the recall lawsuit Dewey v. Rodabaugh. He had informed me that he was contacted by a whistleblower in the organization about the claim… I was never told the exact amount of the claim and the claim was never brought before the council…” Vick also wrote that, “It was the opinion of Mr. Owens and myself that in the above stated lawsuit, Mr. Dewey was the plaintiff and not the defendant, and the Town has no legal obligation to repay Mr. Dewey for his losses in the lawsuit.” Owens sent a letter to the mayor and all council members on June 10, stating that he wanted to “clarify/correct the information that was disseminated” by Vick. “As I understand, a claim was submitted for indemnification of the costs incurred through litigation in the recall matter, Dewey v. Rodabaugh. This claim was processed out of cycle. Immediately, the Town Finance Officer and the Mayor reported this expenditure to my office and requested an opinion. The recent statement uses the term ‘whistleblower’ to describe how this information came to my office. This is inaccurate.” Then Owens addresses the matter of indemnification. “Whether this claim qualifies for indemnification is a matter of debate… At this point, it is my opinion that the mayor could submit this claim for indemnification. However, decision to indemnify would have to obtain Council approval or become an issue of litigation.” Owens wrote that he had advised the mayor to repay the money, resubmit the claim, and present the issue of indemnification to the council for determination, information which he shared with Vick as council president. Shortly after, Owens was “informed that the money had been repaid and the mayor was no longer interested in indemnification.” The council has received the documentation for review and will take up the matter at the next meeting, which is scheduled for July 8. In his cover letter for the documentation packet, Mayor Dewey says that he is now “convinced that an investigation into this matter, and a review of the financials dating back to July1, 2020, is necessary to resolve the misinformation circulating. It is my hope that this will also reinstate any confidence lost by our citizens.” Dewey mentions some accounting tasks that have not been performed in a timely manner. “I have directed the City Attorney’s office to facilitate the independent investigation necessary to resolve the matter so that the business of the community can move on.” In an unusual twist, on Friday, June 11, Vick submitted his resignation from the town council, effective immediately. In his resignation letter, he states, “First thing I want to say is this: this resignation has nothing to do with any issues I may or may not have had in the past with Mayor Dewey or anyone else. This decision was purely made on my own, so that I can focus on myself, my career, and my future…”
Little Red Truck’s
Vintage & Made Friday June 18th Early Bird shopping 5pm-8pm $10 (includes Saturday admission) Saturday June 19th General Admission 10-4 $5 Kiddos 12 and under free
Market
Epic Shopping! Live Music! Food Trucks!
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Benefit
Rummage Sale for the
Stevensville Historical Museum
June 16 Saturday, & 17 Friday,
During Stevensville Western Heritage Days
Hrs: Fri. - 8 am to 5 pm Sat. 8am - 3pm
June 25 8 - 5 pm
June 26 8 - 3 pm
To be held on the lawn at 517 Main St., Stevensville Donations of clean used rummage-sale items are needed for this fundraiser, so please consider cleaning out your closets and storage spaces to look for items to donate.
Donations ofcan clean may Donated items be rummage delivered tosale the items Stevensville Museum on June 23 & 24 be Wednesday dropped offand at Thursday, the Museum from 11:00 5:30. To make arrangements on to Wednesday andother Thursday, for the donation of rummage sale items please call June 14 550-3672 & 15 from 11am to. 5:30pm or 777-5126
call 777-3201, or 777-5126 to arrange donations or drop-offs This fundraiser is an easy way to support the Stevensville Historical Museum in their effort to preserve•and history. Stevensville Heritage Museum 517protect Mainthe St.local Stevensville
Western Days information Stevensville Western Heritage Days takes place June 25th and 26th in Stevensville. Vendors can sign up now by going to the Bitterroot Star’s website at www.bitterrootstar. com. Tickets for the Chuck Wagon Cook-off meal on June 26th will soon be available on the Bitterroot Star website as well. Anyone needing more information on these events can call the Bitterroot Star at 777-3928 or Victoria at 2078793.
Wish
Bitterroot Star -- Page 11
continued from page one and smart, she giggles a lot, she loves to sing.” Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana creates life-changing wishes for children with critical illnesses. Research shows that children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their illness. The South Dakota & Montana chapter has granted more than 2,200
wishes for children in the local community. Together with generous donors, supporters, staff and more than 30,000 volunteers, Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana and 58 other chapters throughout the U.S. have granted more than 340,000 wishes nationwide. For more information about Make-A-Wish South Dakota & Montana, visit wish.org/ sdmt.
Calling All Stevensville Businesses! We want you to participate in our Food Drive Competition to benefit the Backpack Program! Competition will take place from
June 3rd June 26th-July 23rd - July 2nd
All you need to do is put out a box for community members to drop off food. The business that collects the most pounds of food wins!
What do you win? • Bragging rights as the most awesome business in Stevi • Advertising Package from the Bitterroot Star • Gift Certificate to Catered Table
Sign up as a participating business by calling the Star Office at 777-3928 or send an email to liz@bitterrootstar.com
Lets help our kids out!
Community Members we also need you to give! Pick your favorite business and donate. What to donate: Cereal • Fruit cups or apple sauce• Juice Canned ravioli, mac-n-cheese, chili, spaghetti, ect Cereal bars • Evaporated milk
Maintenance/Custodial Job Posting
Salary: $12.62-$14.83 (DOE) plus $2.00/hour Maintenance Work Open: Until Filled Contract: 260 days Shift: 10:00-7:00 pm or as assigned; 40 hour work week REPORTS TO: Superintendent ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS: polishers, strippers. Performs unskilled and semiskilled duties in a variety of WORK ENVIRONMENT: trades. While performing the duties of this job, the employee reguKeeps plumbing and drainage systems clear and in working larly works inside and outside. The employee must be able order. to meet deadlines with severe time constraints. The noise Maintains and operates the boilers. level in the work environment is usually moderate but can Performs painting, carpentry, and other maintenance du- be noisy, depending upon the task at hand. ties alone or as a member of a crew. PHYSICAL DEMANDS: Does minor repair work on doors, windows, roofs, floors, While performing the duties of this job, the employee is and other building parts. frequently required to walk, stand, travel from one building Performs required custodial and grounds-care duties. to another, push heavy equipment, twist at neck and waist, Assembles furniture and other structures. reach, kneel. Specific vision abilities Makes minor adjustments and keeps equipment in good required by this job include close vision, distance vision, repair. depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus. May be Works with school administrators in scheduling and coor- required to lift and/or carry up to 50 pounds. dinating maintenance and repair of buildings, equipment, MENTAL/MOTOR DEMANDS: and other District property. While performing the duties of this job, the employee ofMaintains accurate and current records of maintenance op- ten performs routine work. The employee frequently exerations, including time spent, resources utilized, cost esti- ercises flexibility (ability to shift from one task to anothmates, and total cost experienced by the District. er). Guidance and reinforcement are usually unavailable. Recommends repairs and refurbishing needs; prepares The employee frequently works within time constraints rough estimates of material and labor costs and work pro- and maintains attentiveness intensity. The employee may cedures, coordinating with administration as appropriate. be involved in interactions which require oral and written Recommends new equipment purchases. communications. Keeps operational records and prepares routine reports The physical demands, work-environment characteristics, Assigned cleaning duties when needed. and mental/motor demands described within this job deOnly minimum duties are listed. Other functions may be scription are representative of those that must be met by required as given or assigned. an employee to successfully perform the essential functions DESIRED MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to At least two years work experience in general maintenance, enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential building, and construction work is preferred but not re- functions. quired. A combination of training and experience which For those classified employees employed under a written provides the required level of knowledge and skill, which contract for a specified term, nothing contained in this would include a high school diploma or equivalent. job description shall create a property right beyond the Valid Montana driver’s license. specified duration of the employment contract. Knowledge of basic tools, equipment, terms, and practices Application Materials Needed: used in building maintenance and repair work. Knowledge 1. District classified application: https://www.lonerockof basic safety practices related to maintenance, grounds school.org/district-information/employment care, and custodial work. 2. Submit a letter of interest for the position to SuperintenKnowledge of common hand and power tool usage. dent/Principal: Robert DoBell Use tools, material, and equipment involved in general 3. Resume building maintenance work including painting, plumbing, 4. 3 Letters of Recommendation glass installation, etc. 5. Successful Applicants will need to be able to successfully Work from plans and specifications. pass a fingerprint FBI background check Plan and organize details of a work schedule efficiently. **Please send all application materials to Superintendent, Work effectively without close supervision. Robert DoBell: Maintain records and prepare reports, as required. Contact Information: Perform heavy physical labor. Robert DoBell, Superintendent Understand and carry out oral and written instructions. Phone: 406-777-3314 Maintain cooperative working relationships with those con- Email: rdobell@lonerockschool.org tacted in the course of a workday. 1112 Three Mile Creek Rd. Ability to handle stressful situations. Stevensville, Montana 59870 Ability to effectively manage time and responsibilities. The Lone Rock School District is an equal opportunity emEQUIPMENT USED: ployer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, ethHand and power tools, vehicles, large equipment, vacuum, nicity, religion, national origin, gender, disability, or age.
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 12 Chuck Stranahan’s
Flyfishing Journal
The Salmonfly hatch is on! And... Water levels are dropping all over our end of the state and salmonflies are on the verge of going berserk– we hope. But still… Let’s start by busting a few salmonfly myths, like this one: “They’ll hit anything big and orange.” Yeah, maybe for a while early in the hatch, but not later on. So why not start with good ones? Another myth: “The “hot” salmonfly pattern is all you need.” Not so. West Yellowstone’s renowned Bob Jacklin says, “Carry at least two different flies for the salmonfly hatch,” Bob advised. “Water conditions can change as you go around the next bend.” Bob adds that those flies should be of different types – at least one that is a high floater, and another that gets down in the surface film.
Chuck
Stranahan
Salmonflies and… Another not-so myth: “The fish all key on salmonflies –you don’t need anything else.” This myth isn’t true either. The same water temperatures that trigger salmonflies also trigger other bugs. I remember a day not that long ago with noted aquatic entomologist and fly fishing author Rick Hafele and our mutual friend Gene Tomasco. We hoped to hit some salmonfly action. We saw a few salmonflies. There were a few surface takes. Those rises could have fooled us – they could have been on salmonflies. We saw a few green drakes and other bugs. The gentle rises we saw could have been on any of them. So I followed my own rule: when in doubt get close in size with a Brindle ‘Chute. It worked. We had to work for our fish, get the cast it, (not easy when big fish are demanding a decent drift in high roily water.) We were taking our shots in a run where Gene anchored the boat when we got a double hookup. I semi-lost my fly in a patch of glare but saw the take and felt the weight of a heavy fish that
headed downstream into rough water. “What do you want to do – follow him down?” Gene yelled. I took a look – that fish could have gone into an array of snags on either edge of a whitecapped rapids. Chance of landing it, close to zero. “Nah – I’ll play it here,” I shot back to Gene. Rick landed his fish and I lost mine. “Did you see the size of that fish? Gene asked later. I told him I hadn’t. He held his hands up in a circle. “I did,” he said. “That fish’s gill plate was this big around. It had to go at least five or six pounds – maybe more.” I’ve thought ever since: maybe I should have let Gene pull anchor and follow it downstream. River reports, best salmonfly patterns As I write, dry salmonfly activity on the Bitterroot is on the verge of exploding. Until it does, and even on the off-days, bigand-little nymph combinations with a heavy stonefly pattern up-front and a smaller foodform nymph as a trailer can be a productive option. And don’t forget the Brindle ‘Chute. Carolyn Persico at Rock Creek Fisherman’s Merc tells me that salmonflies are going on Rock Creek up to Gilles Bridge, and “Charlie’s Special, Cat Pukes, and big orange Stimulators have been our best patterns.” She cautions wading anglers to stick to the edges – don’t get too brave with the heavy currents and stay out of the willows. Will Hays at Flint Creek Outdoors in Phillipsburg concurs with Carolyn’s advice on Rock Creek, and adds the Waterwalker salmonfly as a must-have pattern. They’re also seeing green drakes and yellow Sallies. “Georgetown Lake is coming alive too,” he says. “It’s too early for damsel fly dries, but the
nymphs are working, along with small callebaetis –one party just had an awesome day on Purple Hazes.” “Salmonflies just popped on the Big Hole below Silverbridge, and could be above real soon,” according to Mike at the StoneFly Fly Shop in Butte. He likes the Fluttering Stone, Thing From Uranus, and Waterwalker patterns for the Big Hole. All of these pattern lists have conventional flies and foam flies, flies that ride flat on the surface and flies that dance above it. My choices for the Bitterroot reflect the same thing: Waterwalkers for a foam pattern, the old-time Fluttering Stone, and Chuck’s Salmonfly with a moose hair wing for conventionally-tied flies. Most important: get the cast in – and don’t be afraid to move or twitch the bug when you do. A little live action can liven up your day.
Looking for the Bitterroot Star? It’s FREE on more than 100 newsstands from Lolo to Conner. Or call us at 777-3928 and we’ll let you know where the closest stand is.
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RISING NEO-TRADITIONAL COUNTRY MUSIC SENSATION CHANCEY WILLIAMS TO HEADLINE THE PHILIPSBURG, MONTANA ROTARY CLUB’S 11TH ANNUAL SUMMER CHARITY CONCERT & AUCTION, SATURDAY, AUGUST 21, 2021 Nashville, Tenn. -- The Philipsburg, Montana Rotary Club is proud to announce the lineup for the 11th Annual Summer Charity Concert & Auction. Rising neo-traditional country music sensation Chancey Williams is set to headline the event, following performances by Missoula-based band Shodown and modern outlaw country group Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts at the Philipsburg Outdoor Amphitheater at Winninghoff Park in Phillipsburg, Montana on Saturday, August 21, 2021. Tickets are now available for purchase at philipsburgconcert.com. with proceeds from the Concert Auction benefiting the Property Expansion for the Flint Creek Childcare to become a Full-Service DayCare Center. The event will kick off with gates with opening at 11:00 a.m. and a local band starting at noon in the beer garden. One-of-a-kind items will be auctioned off during intermissions, which will be posted on the website ahead of time. Country music’s authentic cowboy Chancey Williams will perform songs off his new album, 3rd Street, which debuted at no. 5 on iTunes Country Albums Chart when it released on May 22nd and features Rocky Mountain CMA Song of the Year, “Wyoming Wind” and Rocky Mountain CMA Musician of the Year fiddle player Brooke Latka. Produced by country music hitmaker Trent Willmon, the 13-track full-length album is sure to resonate with country music fans of all ages from the reminiscent throwback tune “College,” to upbeat anthems like “The World Needs More Cowboys” and “Fastest Gun in Town” to raw, stripped-down ballads like “Let It Go” and “Wyoming Wind.” Gritty two-stepping tracks “Outlaws” and “One More For the Road” are sure to get boots spinning out on the dance floor this summer. Purchase 3rd Street on iTunes or stream on Spotify.
Who: Chancey Williams, Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts and Shodown What: The Philipsburg, Montana Rotary Club’s 11th Annual Summer Charity Concert & Auction When: Saturday, August 21, 2021; Gates open at 11am Where: Philipsburg Outdoor Amphitheater at Winninghoff Tickets: $35 in advance and $45 at the gate; Tickets will be on sale soon at philipsburgconcert.com ***All Admission and Auction items proceeds benefits the Philipsburg Rotary Club area charities! ***
Modern Outlaw Country group Ryan Chrys & The Rough Cuts are based out Denver, Colorado. Ryan was born and raised in Philipsburg. Praised for their songwriting and known for their love of old country and blazing guitars, they bring forth new energy to music fans who love the heroes and outlaws like the legends of Waylon and Willie. The group has shared the stage with Dwight Yoakam, Shooter Jennings, Blackberry Smoke, The Marshal Tucker Band and more. Missoula-based band Shodown’s diverse play list blends bluegrass, western swing, traditional modern country and 70/80’s/90’s rock and roll. Shodown brings an entertaining and high energy performance to their family-friendly show. Follow Chancey Williams on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter ***PLEASE CONTACT HEATHER@LONESTARPR.COM TO SCHEDULE INTERVIEWS FOR PRE-COVERAGE OR ON-SITE COVERAGE FOR CHANCEY WILLIAMS! *** About Chancey Williams: Saddle bronc rider turned country singer-songwriter, Chancey Williams has gone from competing on horseback to performing on center stage at major rodeos. The only artist besides Chris LeDoux to both ride and perform on stage at the world’s largest outdoor rodeo, known as “The Daddy of ‘Em All,” Cheyenne Frontier Days, Williams is the next authentic cowboy of country music. Growing up on a ranch in the Cowboy State (Wyoming), Williams learned the cowboy-way-of-life from his father, and like his dad, Williams found himself a successful bronc rider, qualifying for the National High School Rodeo Finals, twice at the College National Finals and winning two rounds at Cheyenne Frontier Days. In May 2017, Chancey Williams and the Younger Brothers Band released their album, Rodeo Cold Beer, which debuted at #7 on iTunes Country Albums Chart and earned the #1 spot on Billboard’s Heatseekers Mountain Chart.
Sports Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
Florence, Hamilton coaches are Coaches of the Year by Mikayln Brickley Two local coaches have been voted Coaches of the Year by the Montana Coaches Association. Hamilton’s Track and Field Coach John Stromberg was selected for Class A, and FlorenceCarlton’s Head Softball Coach Maurice Craun was named Coach of the Year for Class B/C. Coach Stromberg is “very honored to have been nominated by fellow coaches and feels grateful to be recognized”. Stromberg has been the head Track and Field Coach at Hamilton since 2009. “We didn’t have a lot of experience coming into this year”, said Stromberg. “We told our kids to just go out and compete as hard as they can. Work hard at practice and work up to their potential.” In spite of the lack of experience this year, the boys’ team took home the 1st place trophy at the state Florence softball coach Maurice Craun gets the obligatory dousing after his team wins the state softball track meet in Laurel. “It was a great season,” said Coach Stromberg. “We had championship. Craun was named Class B/C Coach of the Year by the Montana Coaches Association. Photo by Jason Larson.
a really good team and we had a lot of fun with them.” It’s no secret that Florence softball has a legacy of being a force on the softball field, and in his first season as head coach, Maurice Craun continued to build on that notoriety. “We get a lot of support in Florence,” said Coach Craun. “The tradition has been there for a long time of a winning program and it’s just fun to coach there.” Coach Craun is very excited to have been named Coach of the Year, and owes it to his “excellent assistant coaches and a lot of support from the community”. After missing last season due to Covid-19, “getting the girls to play as a unit was challenging because of the time off,” said Craun of the beginning of the season. Despite their initial challenges, however, Florence went on to win their 11thState Championship since 2000. “We’ve won a lot of championships, but this was the first one in front of our home crowd. It’s special.”
Hamilton Track and Field Coach John Stromberg has been named Class A Coach of the Year by the Montana Coaches Association. He is pictured here with two of his top athletes, Orion Kutney at left and Tyler Burrows at right. Photo courtesy of Coach Stromberg.
Darby Riggin’ Rally doesn’t disappoint by Mikayln Brickley On Sunday afternoon, June 6th, the Richard Cromwell Memorial Rodeo Grounds in Darby held the 2nd Annual Yellowstone Riggin’ Rally. Established by the Steiner Family last year, this nationally broadcasted event featured the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association and the top 24 Bareback Riders from the PRCA. In what was called the “The World’s Richest Bareback Riding” we not only saw riders from all around the country compete, but even two from our own Bitterroot Valley: Richmond Champion, from Stevensville, and Caleb Bennett, from Corvallis. In what was an electric night, Bennett finished with a score of 88 in the final round, placing him at 5th, and Champion tied for 6th with a score of 85.5. Utah native, Kaycee Field, earned the title of Riggin’ Rally Champion, riding for a score of 92.5. All in all, it was an incredible rodeo, taking place in our very own small-town Darby. With an amazing family-friendly atmosphere, and some of the best bareback riding in the world, this is definitely an event you will want to look out for next summer.
Mack Wright of the Red Sox making a diving catch in center field. Photo by Mikayln Brickley.
Red Sox drop two to Mariners by Mikayln Brickley The Red Sox played the Mission Mariners last Wednesday night under their lights. After a devastating loss of 14-3 in the first game, the Sox held on tighter in the second game of the evening,
losing 4-3. All three runs in the first game were thanks to Mitch Spinetta, who hit a bomb over center field in the bottom of the 5th. Tristan Lewis pitched a great second game, throwing five innings with 5 strikeouts. Mack Wright, Bridger Huxtable and Paul Brenneman all had an
GARAGE SALE Stevi STARS Foundation
3rd Annual Garage Sale Friday June 25 & Saturday June 26 8 am-4 pm 3812 HWY 93 N Stevi
Red House on the East Side of the HWY, just south of Super One
WE ARE STILL LOOKING FOR GARAGE SALE DONATIONS!
Donating items is easy: Call or text Sarah 406-396-4901 for details
The Red Sox’s Esten Pierce on the mound. Photo by Mikayln Brickley.
RBI in the last game of the night. The Bitterroot Bucs were scheduled to play the Mavs on June 10th, but the game was unfortunately canceled due to the weather. They are scheduled to play the Red Sox on Wednesday, June 30th at 5:00 p.m. at the Red Sox home field.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 14
More Letters continued from page four
believe in equality and are against racism. You believe that all white people are privileged and all of their assets should be redistributed to people of color. Have you ever heard that God created us as equals with unalienable rights? Do you realize that you are being deceived and lied to? Oh, that’s right, once you’re woke, you know better than God and of course it’s the 21st century and man is much wiser today, especially much wiser than that “myth” about God. Don’t be fooled! Jesus Christ, God, is the same yesterday, today, and forever. And, in Isaiah 55:8-9 the Bible says: “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts. And... Ephesians 5:6 Let no one deceive you with empty words, for because of these things the wrath of God comes upon the sons of disobedience. Be careful what you believe, what you watch or read. Do you really believe everything you read and hear on prime time or the internet. When is the last time you actually held a book let alone read one? Have you picked up and read the Holy Bible lately? My guess, for most of you, it’s been awhile if ever. Do you know, that the Bible warns us of all these things that I mentioned above. 2 Timothy 3:1-5 But understand this, that in the last days there will come times of difficulty. For people will be lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, arrogant, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, heartless, unappeasable, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not loving good, treacherous, reckless, swollen with conceit, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having the appearance of godliness, but denying its power. Avoid such people. It’s time to stand and be recognized. If you have not realized we are in a spiritual battle, open your eyes. Chaos and disorder is all around us. The prince of darkness does not and has not rested. He is bound and determined to cause as much destruction and destroy as many souls as time permits. As Christians, you must don the full armor of God, not only stand firm in the truth, we must also advance for Kingdom of God. The eternal destiny of many are at stake. Have no fear, be full of courage, rely on the power, strength and authority of Jesus, and know right is right, wrong is wrong, and always, always live the truth. The truth that Jesus came to earth to testify to.
Wednesday, June 16, 2021 If you haven’t accepted Jesus as your personal savior, there’s still time. Don’t trade eternity in heaven for a few short years here on earth. Accept Jesus, accept life, accept truth and light. Realize the deceptions of Satan, and the lies that keep you bound in slavery and accept Jesus and break the shackles Satan keeps you in. You can break the bonds of slavery, you can be free, but you must accept the truth, you must accept Jesus. And the veil of confusion, the veil of darkness that surrounds your life will be lifted and you will see the truth, you will see the lies and deception. But with the passing of each day, each minute, time is running out. Time is of the essence, so don’t ponder, don’t procrastinate, accept Jesus today. Von Dailey Florence
Thanks Biden
Thank goodness for Biden’s left wing progressive closures, policies and hate America for everything agendas. He and his fabulous cabinet have turned 75 million Trump supporters into 85+ million Trump supporters. Thanks Joe, see you in 2022. Dale Lascala Corvallis
CRT response to Mary
Once again Fahnestock-Thomas likes to twist facts to make them look like facts when in fact they are not facts. She attempts to make a connection between slaves and the reason for American success in business. She makes it sound as if we Americans are the only society in the world to have slaves. To start in 6,800BC Mesopotamia made slaves of those captured in battle, as well as Egypt in 1575 BC and as well as Romans in 120 AD. These few I only mentioned as there were many more nations that were doing this sort of thing and it has been a long past history of most countries. She does not understand the Civil War, as it was never about slavery but power. Power to have equal representation in Congress as the states were expanding and there were confrontations as to it being slave or free. Those with the most free or slave states would have more power in Congress to have votes go their way. She also left out the part of history that the democratic south had the slaves, while many white people in the north formed societies to combat slavery. Many of the democratic slave owners became rich because of the cotton they raised. Success in most business was and still is do to the persons own hard work not slavery.
She also forgot to mention that many blacks sold their own into slavery and is a fact many like to leave out. She mentions reconstruction, another area she does not seem to know much about in history. The killing of blacks was done by the democratic KKK who wanted to stop the laws that whites in Washington passed to make the backs equal and able to vote.. To educate you Mary, the Jim Crow laws were state and local laws that enforced racial segregation in the southern United States. These laws were enacted in the late 19th and early 20th centuries by southern democrat dominated state legislatures to disenfranchise and remove political and economic gains made by black people during Reconstruction period.. Washington was sending federal troops to many of the southern areas to protect blacks so they could vote. I grew up with a black population and I can say I never saw them discriminated against or followed like you wrote. I myself have been stopped by police for speeding so have many white people. I also do not believe any white person has white privilege it is a myth made up by the democratic far left party. It is a racist slur that needs to be stopped by people like you. I myself have never seen a black person subject to leery looks here in Hamilton MT like you claim. You keep bringing up the phrase whites were dominate. Let me explain something to you, when there are more whites then others around then you are dominate and that is not a bad thing, like you want others to believe it is just a fact. If you were in Japan you would be dominated by Asians, so what’s your point. Blacks have come a long way since 1865, they are educated, have jobs in every professional field enjoy all the benefits this country has for all. Critical Race Theory will destroy that if not stopped. You Mary are the problem and those like you, you want to divide and pit blacks against whites instead of saying we are all Americans. You support Critical Race Theory, well it pits blacks and whites against each other and makes each child feel they are not good people nor every will be. Is that what you want! You obviously do not understand nor have looked at what CRT is saying. We need to be one as Americans not divided. Stop promoting bad politics and get yourself educated before you and your kind destroy our youth and this country. PS also for your information parents all over the country are protesting against this CRT because they realize the danger it presents in teaching it to children. Dee Gibney Hamilton
Safeguarding our Outdoor Heritage
The rights to hunt, fish, and access our public lands are engrained in Montana’s Constitution, our state’s heritage, and in the hearts and minds of the people you elect to represent you in Helena. Republican legislators include landowners, avid hunters, fishermen and women, competitive shooters, hikers, ATV riders, boaters, skiers, and outdoor enthusiasts of all types. Montana’s outdoor heritage is our way of life and policies that impact the outdoor experience are near and dear to our hearts. Montana would not be Montana without the ability to live, work, and play outside. Republicans in the Legislature worked this session to better manage wildlife and predator populations, reduce extreme environmental efforts to shut off access to public lands, and reform our state’s outdoor management agencies. We have seen growing pressure in recent years among our game animal populations, public and private lands, recreation, and predators such as wolves and grizzlies. The Legislature passed several bills to better manage wolf and grizzly populations, reduce elk overpopulation on private lands with expanded hunting opportunities, add more members to the FWP Commission, reduce frivolous lawsuits, and increase public access to the outdoors through infrastructure and conservation projects. The Legislature funded millions in Flathead Lake recreation access, shooting ranges, fish cleaning stations, habitat improvements, fishing access sites, and maintenance projects to keep public access hubs clean, functional, and enjoyable. Despite the false claims by some environmental groups, Montana’s outdoor heritage is poised to grow stronger than ever as a result of proactive legislation passed this year by Republicans who live and breathe the outdoor lifestyle. As we head into summer, your citizen lawmakers will be out there on the trail, at the lake, in the woods, and on the river alongside you enjoying and appreciating everything that makes Montana the Last Best Place. Wylie Galt (R-Martinsdale), Speaker of the Montana House of Representatives Casey Knudsen (R-Malta), Speaker Pro Tempore Sue Vinton (R-Lockwood), Majority Leader
Posting Date June 14, 2021
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 15
Coding for Kids summer program in full swing
Spaces still available
with the Stevensville school, has been providing STEAM classes for elementary and middle school students since 2017 and is now expanding into high school and grades 1 & 2 for a full program for grades 1-12. There are still a number of summer classes available. Registration for fall classes starts August 1. For a complete list of classes or for more information, visit codingstevensville.net.
by Victoria Howell “This is just a fabulous stepping stone” into the world of computer coding, says Gay Allison, a Coding for Kids board member. The Coding for Kids summer program at Stevensville is underway and more and more kids are realizing that this stuff is fun! So far, 75 kids, first grade through high school, have registered for 100 spots, according to Loey Knapp, co-director. Jamie Robertson, routes director for Adventure Cycling in Missoula, just finished teaching a mapping class. His six students, grades 8th-12, learned how to use QGIS, a free open source geological data tool. They took the data, analyzed it, did geo processing, and created cartographic products. Damon made a statewide trails map, Shelby made a map of the North Atlantic Abyssal Zone with land forms and species of the deep sea; Angus made a map of national park visitations for 2020; Lucas made a map of McDonalds location density; and Alexandria made a map of population density in Montana. Stevensville teacher Andrea Mooney’s Code-aGame class of eight 4-6 graders created their own games or stories with characters and dialog. In this class, the kids learned drag & drop coding to create video games, storytelling and art, including sound and music. This year, Coding for Kids got several grants so they were able to expand and add more classes for
Jamie Robertson with his students who learned how to use GIS software to gather data and compile maps. The students received certificates for completing the class. Photo by Victoria Howell.
Andrea Mooney’s Code-a-Game class learned how to use drag & drop coding to create their own computer games and stories. They all received certificates at the end of the class. Photo by Victoria Howell. A student in the Code-a-Game class shows her mother what she created. Photo by Victoria Howell. high school ages. Some of the new classes are “Build a Drone & Fly It”, “3-D Design – Build a Character”, JavaScript and a film class in which the students can design and edit a film. Elementary and middle school classes include three levels of robotics, digital art, beginning and advanced game programming, biomimicry, and development of a sound and light show with Arduino. According to the codingstevensville.net website, reasons to teach robotics in schools include: introduces structured programming; increases creativity; prepares students for future technology; teaches children how to turn frustration into innovation; promotes inclusivity and teamsmanship. Coding for Kids is a nonprofit organization that, in partnership
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What’s the story,
Story?
Question: What do the swallows feed on during those early cold, blustery days in April when there are few insects flying? Answer: Surprisingly, the diet of swallows during those blustery April days in Montana is primarily insects, particularly midges and other small flies. Many midges are quite active in cool weather (the midges often seen walking on snow in late spring are a good example). Most of those insects tend to be close to the ground or water during those cold periods but they are active, nonetheless. Those low-flying insects are the focus of barn swallows that we see flying about a foot above the ground or water during unusually cold periods in the summer. Swallows will feed on berries and small fruits under emergency conditions, but flying insects are usually available in all but the very worst of conditions.
Friday & Saturday
On a related note, I will never forget the Vermillion Flycatcher (a bird of extreme southern U.S.) that resided at a slough near Victor during the dead of winter several years ago. Although most of the water was frozen and the ground was covered with snow, this bird would regularly fly down from a low perch and catch insects flying right at the surface of the only open water. I’m sure that bird would have survived the entire winter in that area if it hadn’t fallen prey to a Northern Shrike. In short, insects are active in the seemingly worst of conditions and swallows/ flycatchers are very capable of finding them.
June 18 & 19
10% Off Almost Everything ABOVE the Waist, In ALL Departments! Shirts, Vests, Jackets, Hats, etc. Check Out the Shoes for 10% Discounts Too!
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Classified
Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 16
Call
777-3928 Deadline Monday
12 noon for Wednesday
SALES SPERRY ESTATE SALE, 801 Old Corvallis Rd., Corvallis. 18 June 2021 from 8am to 5pm. 19 June 2021 from 8am to 3pm House hold: Lots of hand painted china, glass ware, several party ware sets, cooking items, dormitory fridge, wood cabinet, night stand, wall hangings’ pictures, suitcases, linens, hand crocheted doilies, misc. furniture, old drops leaf desk, Christmas items. Building Supplies: Trusses, garage doors with opener, doors and windows, landscape blocks, Pump and pressure tank, hardware, shop lights, sheet glass misc. items Jewelry: old rhinestone, necklaces, earrings, broaches, rings and old watches. Misc: sewing supplies, quilting supplies, clothing, craft supplies, wood items, Books, horse equipment, lots of wine making supplies, greeting cards, chain saw, leaf blower, Lots of misc. shop items, Camera & Lens, Bags.
OUTDOOR ANTIQUE MARKET. Over an acre of antiques and collectibles from many vendors. Sunday, July 11, 9-5 at Virgelle, Montana 1-800-426-2926 or www. VirgelleMontana.com
FOR SALE
FOR SALE: 2018 SCHULT RIVERVIEW 204 16’X80’ MOBILE HOME. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, includes Magnum skirting. Located in Moore, MT. $85,000. For more info, contact Vernon Schrock at (309) 785-5088. No Sunday calls, please.
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INSTRUCTION
TRILLIUM BRASS TRUMPET LESSONS with master trumpeter, beginners to virtuosos, Florence Trumpet studio, reasonable price, basic to advanced music theory and pedagogy, Bb, C, D, Eb, A and Bb piccolo, flugel, cornet, Baroque instruments: 406-273-4212 trillliumbrass@aol. com
HELP WANTED
POSITION OPEN FOR NEWSPAPER DISTRIBUTION PREP PERSON. Wednesdays, approx. 6 hours, sometimes more. $10 per hour. Call Victoria, 7773928. POSITION OPEN FOR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY DRIVER. Wednesday & Thursdays. Vehicle provided. $10 per hour. Call Victoria, 777-3928. $5,000 SIGN ON! WESTMORELAND MINING is seeking qualified electricians and diesel mechanics in Colstrip, MT. Apply at http://westmoreland.jobs.net.
NOTICES VENDORS - Sign up for STEVENSVILLE WESTERN HERITAGE DAYS now! Saturday, June 26th, downtown Stevensville. Sign up at www. bitterrootstar.com
Pie in the Big Sky AUCTION June 25 at 6:30 pm
on the lawn of Stevensville Hotel
Enjoy a glass of wine while bidding on some of the tastiest pies in Stevi! Guest Auctioneers - Jim Pfau & Bill McNulty All the proceeds go towards “Trout Spout” Splash Pad at Lewis & Clark Park
Crossword Solution
If you want to donate a pie to be auctioned off, Call Joan 531-8401. Edible and non-edible pies welcome! Can’t bake? Create your own unique “pie” with a fun theme of items!
POLE BUILDING SPECIALIST
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© Feature Exchange
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Bitter Root Humane Association would like to thank: 3682 Eastside Highway Stevensville, MT
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Celia Grohmann, Broker 406-550-1014 http://on93.com
Legals Wednesday, June 16, 2021
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT, RAVALLI COUNTY In Re the Estate of: MONTY J. WILSON; Deceased, Case No.: DP-21-62 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the 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, 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 27 day of May, 2021. Sandra Dee Dunbar Personal Representative BS 6/2, 6/9, 6/16 ________________________ Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BUD LEE YERIAN, Deceased. Case No.: DP-21-61 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 Alice Shaver, 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 25th day of May 2021. /s/ Alice Shaver, Personal Representative BS 6/2, 6/9, 6/16 ________________________ Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF SUSAN ANN AKEY, Deceased. Case No.: DP-21-64 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appoint-
ed 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 Christopher Akey, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the aboveentitled Court. DATED this 2nd day of June 2021. /s/ Christopher Akey, Personal Representative BS 6/9, 6/16, 6/23 ________________________ PUBLIC NOTICE Town of Stevensville Notice is hereby given that a vacancy exists in the office of the Town Councilmember - Ward 2 created by the resignation of elected councilmember Patrick Shourd. Town Council will appoint a Stevensville resident to fill the unexpired term of the position vacated on the Town Council. The term expires December 31, 2021. Qualifications to serve as a Town Council member are as follows: * Must be a citizen of the United States * Must be a Stevensville resident for at least 60 days * Must live in Ward 2 (the area is south of 5th Street and South of Central Avenue) Any qualified person interested in being considered for appointment to the position of Town Council may make an application to the Town of Stevensville. Applications are available online at www.townofstevensville.com/council<http:// www.townofstevensville.com/ council> and at Town Hall at 206 Buck Street Stevensville, MT 59870. Completed applications can be dropped off at Town Hall or mailed to PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870. Applications must be received by 5:00 pm, Friday, June 18, 2021. For more information contact Town Hall at (406) 777-5271. Attest: Jenelle S. Berthoud, Town Clerk Laura Miller, Deputy Clerk Publish in the Bitterroot Star: Wednesday, June 9, 2021 Wednesday June 16, 2021 ________________________ Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Brynn Nicole Paddock, Gina Neaves, Petitioner Cause No. DV-21-215/5 Dept. No.: 1 Notice of Hearing on Name Change This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Brynn Nicole Paddock to Brynn Nicole Neaves. The hearing will be on July 28, 2021 at 1:00 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: June 7, 2021 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court. By: Julie A. Ashbake, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 6-9, 6-16, 6-23, 6-30-21.
________________________ Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC P.O. Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE WILLIAM SECHRIST, Deceased. Case No.: DP-21-54 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 Jane I. Johanson, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, to Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the aboveentitled Court. DATED this 10th day of June 2021. /s/ Jane I. Johanson, Personal Representative BS 6/16, 6/23, 6/30 ________________________ Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF LORI J. SPEARS, Deceased. Case No.: DP-21-68 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 Darren N. Ginn, 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 10th day of June 2021. /s/ Darren N. Ginn, Personal Representative BS 6/16, 6/23, 6/30 ________________________ Stevensville School District has the following items available for bid: (1) 5 3/8” x 13” x 17’0” Glu-Lam Beam-minimum start bid of $250.00 (11) 5 ⅛” x 11 ¼” x 27’0 Glu-Lam Beams-minimum start bid of $350.00 each (11) 5 ⅛” x 11 ¼” x 32’0” GluLam Beams-minimum start bid of
New Community Housing in Stevensville!
$450.00 each Several Miscellaneous textbooksmake an offer Several Miscellaneous computers/ monitors-make an offer Several school lockers Bids will be accepted until 4:00 p.m., June 23, 2021. Bids need to be sealed and mailed or delivered to the business office located at 300 Park Ave, Stevensville MT, 59870 before the deadline. Along with your bid amount please include your name and phone number so you can be contacted if you win the bid. BS 6/16 ________________________ Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RANDALL C. KEITH, Deceased. Case No.: DP-21-67 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 Coreen G. Keith, 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 8th day of June 2021 /s/ Coreen G. Keith, Personal Representative BS 6/16, 6/23, 6/30 ________________________ John D. Greef ATTORNEY AT LAW 302 W. Main St. Sidney, MT 59270 (406) 360-8117 Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Janice Marlene White, Deceased. Case No.: DP-21-66 Department No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to John D. Greef, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, 302 W. Main Street, Sidney, MT 59270, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 9th day of June, 2021.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 17
John D. Greef, Personal Representative BS 6/16, 6/23, 6/30 ________________________ REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS PREPARATION OF PRELIMINARY ARCHITECTURAL REPORT AND FINAL CONSTRUCTION DESIGN AND INSPECTION North Valley Public Library District, Stevensville, MONTANA North Valley Public Library District (NVPLD) is requesting proposals from qualified Architectural / Engineering firms for a Preliminary Architectural Report (PAR). The scope of the PAR is a comprehensive evaluation and cost analysis of part renovation in place vs. full renovation in place vs. building a new facility, as well as feasible location options in Stevensville to bring the North Valley Public Library into compliance with all building codes as well as a larger healthy updated facility that meets the needs of the community now and in the future. A facilities vision can be found at the North Valley Public Library District’s website at https://www. northvalleylibrary.org/facilitiesplan. The facility is located in Stevensville, Montana. Following pre-design approval, the selected consultant may also be asked at the discretion of the North Valley Public Library District to assist in grant writing, develop a final construction design, prepare construction bid documents, assist in bidding the project, and oversee construction activities, including related grant administration and management. The detailed Request for Proposal (RFP), including a description of the services to be provided by respondents, the minimum content of responses, and the factors to be used to evaluate the responses, can be obtained by going to the NVPLD website https://www.northvalleylibrary.org/rfp-for-par Responses to this RFP will be received by the North Valley Public Library District, 208 Main St., Stevensville, MT until 2:30 p.m. on September 15, 2021. North Valley Public Library District and its agents reserve the right to reject any or all proposals and to waive any formality and technicality. BS 6/16, 6/23
make an application to the Town of Stevensville. Applications are available online at www.townofstevensville.com/council<http:// www.townofstevensville.com/ council> and at Town Hall at 206 Buck Street Stevensville, MT 59870. Completed applications can be dropped off at Town Hall or mailed to PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870. Applications must be received by 5:00 pm, Wednesday, June 23, 2021. For more information contact Town Hall at (406) 777-5271. Attest: Jenelle S. Berthoud, Town Clerk Laura Miller, Deputy Clerk B.S. 6/16-6/23 Daniel Browder, Esq. Browder Law, PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840 Telephone: (406) 361-3677 Email: browderlawmont@gmail. com Attorney for Judith L. Fraser, Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JAMES ED STUBBLEFIELD, Deceased. Cause No.DP-21-70 Dept. No. 2 Hon.: Judge Lint 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 the Personal Representative. Judith L. Fraser, return receipt requested, c/o Browder Law PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59870, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. Dated this 14th day of June, 2021. /s/Daniel Browder, Attorney for P.R. 217 N. 3rd Street, Ste. J Hamilton, Montana 59840 /s/Judith L. Fraser, Personal Representative BS 6/16, 6/23, 6/30/21.
________________________ PUBLIC NOTICE Town of Stevensville Notice is hereby given that a vacancy exists in the office of the Town Councilmember - Ward 2 created by the resignation of elected councilmember Dempsey Vick. Town Council will appoint a Stevensville resident to fill the unexpired term of the position vacated on the Town Council. The term expires December 31, 2021. Qualifications to serve as a Town Council member are as follows: * Must be a citizen of the United States * Must be a Stevensville resident for at least 60 days * Must live in Ward 2 (the area is south of 5th Street and South of Central Avenue) Any qualified person interested in being considered for appointment to the position of Town Council may
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 18
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 19
Tops in North American Real Estate ast issue we introduced you to the C&C Real Estate Services Team. They have an exceptional range of skill sets including accounting, research, finance and more. Clearly relationships are extremely important in a real estate transaction but experience can make a difference. The team leader, Craig Siphers, has 34 years of experience as a licensed agent or broker, multiple state experience having been a broker in Arizona, over $200,000,000 in real estate transactions and he was one of the top agents in the EXIT system in all of North America. Craig has been an instructor or advisor to some of the top agents in the Bitterroot Valley. A long time client of Craig’s had this to say, “I’ve bought and sold a lot of real estate over the years and delt with a variety of agents but Craig is just exceptional. His strategies are over the top and his understanding of his market is second to none. I just won’t work with anyone
else after experiencing his depth of knowledge. He’s super smart across the board but when it comes to Bitterroot Valley real estate, he’s the guy.” There are nearly 300 agents working as real estate professionals in the Bitterroot Valley and more if you consider that there are a fair number of agents from the Missoula area who also work in the valley. If you are considering selling or buying it may be worthwhile to have a conversation with one of the top real estate professionals in North America. And do not forget the additional power of a dedicated team focused on providing you with the very best in real estate services and marketing. Next time we will explore what it takes to experience a smooth real estate transaction and it starts with the psychology of the deal. That includes the psychology of the buyer, the seller and all the parties involved including representing brokers.
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Issue 4 Vol. 1
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Wednesday, June 16, 2021
Bitterroot Star -- Page 20
Delivery Service Monday-Friday 777-4663
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Check out our in-store weekly grocery & Natural foods Flyer!
Happy Father’s Day from Burnt Fork Market!
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At the Fork we are loaded with Black Angus USDA Choice steaks the size of Dad’s head perfect for the BBQ also we have Granny Smith Apples perfect for a pie for Dad with sugar on top! Don’t forget we are loaded with the best Local brews in the Root perfect for Dad! Shop the Fork & save time, money & taste local! Sign up to win a Eric Church Concert Tickets online! Dutch Farms Mild Cheddar
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