Bitterroot Star - June 2, 2021

We sell

licenses

PRST STD US POSTAGE PAID STEVENSVILLE MT PERMIT 89

• • 777-2822 • • 4039 HWY 93 N STEVENSVILLE

OUTLET STORE

For all your ammunition & Hunting needs

www.ammoandmorestore.com

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

‘The

’ ! l a c o L Best at

JUNE

25TH AND

26TH

Volume XXXVI, Number 46

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

www.bitterrootstar.com

Riggin’ Rally!

‘Pride’ colors proposed for Hamilton crosswalk

by Nathan Boddy

PIctured at last year’s Riggin’ Rally is Wyatt Bloom on “MLW’s Irish Eyes” of Sankey Pro Rodeo & Phenom Genetics. Photo by Roseanna Sales. Riggin’ Rally story on page 3.

Pro-diversity group forms following Florence school board meeting

by Victoria Howell Brittany McLaughlin, parent of a seventh grader at Florence-Carlton Middle School, recently organized a social media group called the Bitterroot Alliance for Diversity and Equality. The group was originally called Bitterroot Alliance Against Hate, but McLaughlin said she didn’t want to include the word “hate” in the group’s name. It’s a Facebook group working to find ways for all people to come together safely.

She said she’s hoping to provide a safe, supportive space for LGBTQ+ in the

valley.

According to McLaughlin, this is in response to what happened at the May school board meeting in Florence when a group showed up to protest the Gay-Straight Alliance group that was organized in the middle school.

“My daughter and a friend started it to find a safe space for these students,” said McLaughlin. She said her daughter had heard about clubs like this and wanted to start one. She started it at the beginning of the school year. They followed the rules about forming a club and followed the proper steps. The

club started to pick up steam and got a new advisor. However, the advisor came across a school policy that was worrisome to her about whether or not this was a formal or informal group, and whether or not parental permission was required. This was brought before the board in April.

“When this all came about, I decided to sit in on this board meeting,” said McLaughlin. “They talked about the policy, but the board tabled it because they felt like they needed more information.”

See DIVERSITY, page 12

A packed room awaited the Hamilton City Council’s Committee of the Whole (COW) on Tuesday evening, May 25.

Only three items were on the agenda for discussion, but it was the item presented by high school students, Frances Carrasco and Inga Watt, which dominated discussion for the evening.

The proposal, as submitted to the council, is entitled ‘Allyship Pride Crosswalk Project.’

Their proposal seeks to gain permission from the Hamilton City Council for participating students from Hamilton H.S. SPURS, Corvallis, and area volunteers, to paint four crosswalks at the intersection

of 3rd and State, with Pride flag colors; the rainbow colors long associated with Gay Pride.

To that palate the group has also added five more colors. As explained by Carrasco, “The pink, light blue and white is used to represent the trans flag, and the black and brown represent people of color.

We thought it was necessary to include all these colors in a project that is all about inclusion.”

The groups seeking permission indicated on their proposal that, “We want to make a physical representation of our purpose in preparation for Pride Month in June.”

Some confusion arose from the mention of Gay Pride See PRIDE, page 12

A depiction of the plan for a ‘Pride’ crosswalk in Hamilton. The group proposes to add light blue, pink, white, black and brown to represent even more diversity.

Habitat for Humanity needs land for more homes

by Victoria Howell

0% interest loans. The people must stay in the home for 10 years. This is for people who for Habitat for Humanity is a global nonprofit one reason or another would have a hard time housing organization working in local getting financing. They must also contribute communities across all 50 states in the U.S. sweat equity, with a down payment of 500 and in approximately 70 countries. Habitat’s hours of work for a couple and 250 hours for a vision is of a world where everyone has a decent single person.” place to live. To make that happen, Habitat for All the houses are built to code, in 2-, 3- or Humanity volunteers build homes that working 4-bedroom models, depending on the size of people can purchase through 0% interest loans the family. Six different designs are available and using their own labor as part of the down to meet varying lot shapes. All the materials are new. Labor is all-volunteer, and is donated payment. by many of the skilled people in the valley Here in the Bitterroot Valley, Habitat for – plumbers, electricians, roofers, etc. “It’s Humanity has built 15 homes since 2005, in Corvallis, Darby, Hamilton, Stevensville and community involvement,” said Fifield.

Victor. Right now, one is being finished in A good portion of the cost of materials is Darby, and another is being started. raised through sales at the ReSale Store on Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. They take in good, “The homes are not a gift,” stresses Bob used materials, including building materials, Fifield, who has been president of the Bitterroot furniture and home décor, and resell them to group’s board of directors for the last five-andthe public. a-half years. “The people have to buy them, “This helps the store, the community and and they will have a mortgage based on a the home buyers,” says Bill Bean, Executive professional appraisal.”

Director of Ravalli County Habitat for “Our main mission is to build homes,” said Ravalli County Habitat for Humanity Executive Director Bill Bean and Board President Bob Fifield at the ReSale Humanity.

Fifield. “We work with our local Montana See HABITAT, page 7 Store on Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. Photo by Victoria Howell. banks and the Board of Housing to provide

PARTY IN THE PARK FOR BOB! BOB!

LEWIS & CLARK PARK

Friday, June 4 5-9 pm • Free

FEATURING LIVE MUSIC • LIVE AUCTION 6 PM BEER GARDEN & FOOD VENDORS

VISIT “PARTY IN THE PARK FOR BOB” ON FACEBOOK FOR MORE INFO

Bitterroot Star -- Page 2

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Come to Learn! Come to Play! Come to WIN! FREE prizes, kid’s activities & entertainment

Spring into Summer!

A FREE community nonprofit celebration

June 5, 2021

10 am - 5 pm Ravalli County Fairgrounds First Interstate Center Win amazing FREE prizes like: • Big Screen TV • Laptop Computer • Snowblower • Dyson Vacuum • iPad • and more!

• BBQ Grill Sponsored by: Rapp Family Foundation, Bouilla, Asmus Jewelry & Coins, Wimps Body Works, Evans Ace Hardware, Deb & Doug Symmons, Maria Laughlin: eXp Realty, Bruce Gould Realtor - Berkshire Hathaway, Don Williams Insurance, Inc., Ravalli Republic, Bobbie Dye, Bitterroot Star

For more information contact Hamilton Players at info@hamiltonplayers.com

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 3

Darby Riggin’ Rally will be ‘fun, fast and furious’

by Liz Cook The name Bobby Steiner might not ring a bell with most people, but it sure did with Cal Ruark, the President of the Darby Rodeo Association. The two met last year outside of Murdoch’s by chance. Steiner was the World Champion Bull Rider in 1973 and comes from a long line of cowboys. He happened to be looking for an arena for his grandson, an up and coming bareback rider to practice in.

Hamilton being a small town and Cal being known for all the time and work he has put into the DRA, people pointed out Cal and said ‘that’s the man to talk to’. In Steiner’s words, “it was an ironic meeting” in that both were looking for the same thing, to eventually bring a world class 5-star rodeo to the Bitterroot. Together the two planned the Riggin’ Rally. After talking for a while, an agreement was made with a handshake, and the rest is history.

The Riggin’ Rally came to life last year in Darby on a cold and dreary weekend in June.

That didn’t stop the people of the Bitterroot.

They packed the stands and withstood the unpleasant weather to watch the top bareback riders of the world compete in their local

Steely Steiner carries the flag for the national anthem as contestants stand by. Photo by Roseanna Sales.

area. “In all my travels, I’ve never seen a group of people so tough and with so much resolve as I saw in the people from the Bitterroot,” said Steiner.

So what is a Riggin’ Rally, I had to ask

Non profit fair this Saturday Spring Into Summer, a community event celebrating Ravalli County nonprofits and their importance to our shared community, will take place saturday, June 5th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the First Interstate Building at the Ravali County Fairgrounds. Each participating nonprofit will be there to meet the public, share program information, increase volunteer and mailing lists, and generally market themselves and their programs to the community.

Spring Into Summer! will feature hourly entertainment, areas of children’s activities, and an amazing array of raffle prizes: a big screen TV, a snow blower, and a BBQ/smoker to name but a few. Entry is free to the public and so are the raffle tickets! All a person has to do to get a raffle ticket is stop by a booth and

get a free raffle ticket. They can collect one free raffle ticket from as many (or all!) of the booths as they wish and then they can put them into any of the drawings: all in one, or spread out across several.

Spring Into Summer! is being promoted as “a delightful community win-win!” For nonprofits, it will be an exciting way to connect to the public, build volunteer/participant capacity, and spread the word about the work they do in the community. For the community, it will be a free event where they can have fun, learn a ton, get some great free swag, and win some amazing free prizes! This is not a fundraising event, and no booths will be allowed to sell anything. However, the organizations can hand out swag or offer a free raffle at their booths.

Steiner as a small town girl who did not grow up in the rodeo scene. The response I got surprised me. It’s the biggest rodeo Montana will see all year, with the top 30 of the best bareback riders competing for $50,000 and

Estate Sale - June 10, 11, 12 This is part 1 of an estate liquidation that will take multiple sales throughout the year to complete! It will take place at a new location (for us) 2 miles north of Hamilton, MT. (Exact address will be released the week of the sale on our website.)

Thursday June 10th from 8am-6pm is full price. Friday June 11th from 8am-6pm is 25% off the price you see (extra 10% off for military and first responders.). Saturday June 12th from 8am-3pm is 50% off the price you see. Auction for remainder of the items is at 3pm Saturday June 12th. Items to be sold include, but are not limited to: -2015 Dodge 2500 Cummins Diesel pick up truck with 34,000 miles, moon roof, air leveling shocks, and hard Tonneau bed cover.

- 2013 Polaris Ranger XP 900 EFI with front and back windshields, toolboxes in the back, and Polaris 4500 winch on the front.

- Fifth wheel Alpinelite Limited camper trailer -Fifth wheel utility trailer -1968 Ford Mustang (as-is/ parts car) -Horse drawn buggies, carriages, sleighs, and accessories

AMISH SCHOOL FUNDRAISER

-JET bandsaw and other power tools -Table saws, planers, air compressors of all sizes - Multiple rolling toolboxes - Settling set - Hand tools, power tools, woodworking and metal working tools - Chemicals and oil -Woods of all sizes and types -Metal working stock and copper tubes/ pipes -Generators, sanders, sand blaster, hardware - Patio furniture, BBQ grill, smoker

- Saddles and Tack - Wood Bear carvings - Crafting and sewing galore!!

- TONS AND TONS of fabric and quilting supplies - kitchen and household goods and misc.

- Collectibles - Electronics, computers, vintage electronics and computers.

- Camping and outdoors supplies and equipment -Bedroom, living room, and dining room furniture And MUCH MUCH more!

swansonsestatesales.com Please like and share our Facebook page: @Swansonsestates

DINNER & AUCTION June 4th • 5:00 pm at Yoder Gravel

the bragging rights of being the best of the best. There are only two of these events in the world. This isn’t just an amateur rodeo, it is a professional elite event that matches the toughest rodeo horses in the business against the best riders. “It’s fun, fast and furious,” according to Steiner. Cowboys come from all over the world and love the Bitterroot, the arena and the people they get to compete in front of. “We have to keep this event going, too many people love it to not continue it on,” said Steiner.

The second annual Riggin’ Rally will take place June 5th and 6th at the Richard Cromwell Memorial Rodeo Grounds in Darby.

Gates open at 1 p.m. on Saturday, with the main event starting at 3 p.m. on Sunday, June 6th. On Sunday, there will be no tickets available at the gate; you must pre-purchase your tickets. A meet and greet will be held with the contestants at 2 p.m. on Sunday. The Calcutta will be at 3 p.m. and the main event starts at 4 p.m.

Tickets are still available, but are selling fast so it is best to buy tickets as soon as possible. You can purchase them online at darbyrodeo.org, or in person at Darby Wine & Spirits or Murdoch’s in Hamilton.

n

io t & a S oci X ’ s kino Asnts c Roode ese y r Pr b r

Da

SERVING DINNER 5:00 - 8:00 PM AUCTION AT 7:00 PM!!

All proceeds go to Stevensville Amish School

YELLOWSTONE RIGGIN’ RALLY

MENU Fish, Scalloped Potatoes, Dinner Rolls, Baked Beans, Coleslaw, Pie, Ice Cream ~ All You Can Eat - Donation Only ~ AUCTION ITEMS INCLUDE: Storage Building, Poly Outdoor Furniture (20 year warranty), 24x32 Post Frame Building, 1000’ Rough Sawn Lumber (Doug Fir or Pine), Hanging Flower Pots, Several Loads of Gravel, Labor to Build Fence, Labor to Change a Roof, Amish Made Hickory Footstool, 4’ Porch Swing, Wall Dryer, Henry Gold .22 Rifle. All Items Donated.

The purpose of the benefit dinner and auction is to raise the funds needed for the local Amish children to attend their Parochial school. All of the auction items are donated with 100% OF THE PROCEEDS GOING TO THE SCHOOL! Be sure to attend this event to enjoy a delicious meal, and take several useful auction items home with you!

TO DONATE AUCTION ITEMS CALL: Jake 406-274-8348 • Matt 406-360-0884 • Caleb 406-552-7924 Questions? Call David 406-552-3688 • Joe 608-293-4662 • Marcus 406-493-7484

EVERYONE WELCOME! No Charge, Donations Only!

Saturday June 5th

&

2021

sunday June 6th

Top 24 Bareback Riders in PRCA Standings & Top 6 Qualifiers from Saturday

june 5th

•Gates open at 1 pm •Buckin’ at 3 pm •Tickets: $20

june 5th

•2 pm Meet & Greet •3 pm Calcutta - bid on your favorite Cowboy •4 pm Main Event followed by a LIVE Concert with Tommy Steiner •Tickets: $45 all seats must pre-purchase •Beer Garden: $35 sold at the gate •Kids Under 3 FREE

darbyrodeo.org Richard Cromwell Arena, Darby

Opinion Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 4

Letters White Privilege and Critical Race Theory

In the May 19th Bitterroot Star, Donna Gibney addressed the term White Privilege, and in the May 26th “Star” her husband, John, addressed what is known as Critical Race Theory. Many of us white folks probably share their feelings at least at first, because we feel personally attacked and are naturally defensive.

But more reading and learning and caring suggest it really is about opening our eyes to the actual history of our country.

It’s an amazing and wonderful place and is very important and much admired around the world, but that didn’t happen automatically because the people here are any more amazing or wonderful or important or admirable than other people elsewhere. It happened because we were so well placed to take advantage of the natural resources here, including timing, lots of space, and a good climate.

The primary foundation for our wealth and success emerged from the fact that, starting in the 15th century, European explorers were ranging ever farther into Asia and, especially, Africa, which was teeming with people who seemed primitive to the European eye and who also looked different, because the hot, sunny climate had favored protective melanin in their skin over millions of years.

The missionaries who followed the explorers may have intended simply to “civilize” those people, but businessmen realized that here was a source of practically free labor to raise the cotton and sugar cane and tobacco that would make America rich. Most people are not eager to work harder than they have to if they can get someone else to do it (consider Tom Sawyer), and besides, the difference in appearance meant it would be easier to keep these people in the place assigned to them.

It was ambition and the desire for wealth that created and depended on a kind of slavery not seen much in the rest of the world, because these Black and Brown people had no hope of escape, and it would be quite a challenge to get home to Africa if they did.

It was ambition and the desire for wealth that brought about the Civil War, because plantation owners refused to treat these human beings as human beings.

It was fear and the desire for wealth that cut the Reconstruction Era after the war to twelve years, because white people began to feel threatened by freed slaves and both North and South were concerned about their economy.

It was fear and the desire for wealth that supported Jim Crow laws in the South, which virtually maintained slavery by another name and brought about red-lining of real estate in northern cities where, again, white people felt threatened by people who looked so different from them.

And so on up until today. People who look different offer an easy target for frivolous traffic stops and general suspicion; and white nervousness in their presence makes it easy for unremarkable situations to escalate into incarceration and death.

How many stories have there been in the past few years of white people calling the authorities on Black people doing things that they probably would not even have noticed if those people hadn’t looked different from them?

How often has each of us taken a second, leery look at someone we happened to see on the street or in a store just because they looked different from us?

Unless we dress outrageously or perhaps have an obvious physical challenge, we white people aren’t subject to those leery looks. That’s White Privilege. Nor are our names often out of the ordinary, so we’re less likely to be passed over when applying to schools or for jobs.

That’s White Privilege. And Affirmative Action over a few decades cannot erase the effects of centuries.

Critical Race Theory holds that the concept of race was not applied to human physical characteristics until the early 18th century.

Europeans were white and dominant and so took on the job of classifying these newly discovered human beings, and it proved to be in their favor to maintain their own superior position. That turned into our system, which never tried very hard to change; hence we have systemic racism.

That’s not an insult, just as recognizing our White Privilege is not an insult. It’s simply a matter of opening our eyes to American history in the world as it really was, to the fact that people tend to be looking out for their own good and sometimes take advantage of others in their way. That’s universal. But as our ancestors followed their ambitions, they took unprecedented advantage of a whole obvious set of other human beings because they could.

We white people have always benefited from this system, and now perhaps we can wake up and change it at last.

So yes, the “equality” and “democracy” on which our representative republic was founded has always been iffy, to the benefit of white people, especially males. Time we fixed that.

(There are so many new and older books out there to help us understand where we have been and where we are now! Consider Heather Cox Richardson’s “How the South Won the Civil War,” Isabel Wilkerson’s “The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America’s Great Migration” and “Caste: The Origins of Our Discontents,” Nell Painter’s “The History of White People,” and, if you prefer fiction, Octavia Butler’s “Kindred” and Ralph Ellison’s “Invisible Man.”) Mary Fahnestock-Thomas Hamilton

See where 2016 voters live

From 1952 through 1988, except for 1962, a Republican won the popular vote, for US President. From 1992 until now, with two exceptions, a Democrat won the US Presidency.

Except in 2004 when George W. Bush won the Presidency with 50.7% of the popular vote. In 2016, Donald Trump won the US Presidency, with 46.1% of the popular vote.

Incumbent President Trump received 46.9% of the popular vote in 2020.

Take a good look at where the voters in the 2016 Federal Election live, according to one, independent person: https://www.arcgis.com/apps/ webappviewer/index.html?id=8732c91ba7a14d 818cd26b776250d2c3 Expand that ArcGIS map, noticing that red dots, also blue dots, indicate numbers of voters.

Dot size is proportional to voter numbers.

Right away, you may notice concentrations of blue dots, near the West Coast, also near the East Coast. After a while you may notice that the blue dots are mostly in urban-suburban areas. And that the red dots are very often in rural areas.

Notice such in Washington, Montana, and the Dakotas.

Check out the rest of that map, then give more thought than usual to this news.

In the most recent Gallup political preference poll, 40% of the people identified as Independents. 31% said they were Democrats.

26% identified themselves as Republican.

Urban-suburban areas probably vote for candidates of the Democratic party.

Rural areas probably vote for candidates of the Republican party.

In 2016, was Donald J. Trump elected to the US Presidency, by rural voters?

If so, how did such not get featured by your news, and views, sources, and commentators?

Now go figure how Donald Trump won the 2020 Presidential election.

In weeks ahead, you may come to understand the mindset, of over 50% of polled Republicans, who now say the 2020 Presidential election involved fraud and lacked integrity.

Bob Williams Stevensville

Pray for Florence School

All our schools need guidance and prayer, but especially right now for the Florence Carlton school. It has been found out that a “gay” club has been meeting, during school hours, in the school building, with junior high and middle school students, to win them over to the gay lifestyle. This so called “club” must be stopped immediately. A school is there to teach academics, not to confuse students about a certain sexual lifestyle. This is a horrible evil taking place right here in our valley. Our tax money should not be supporting such actions.

Please pray that the school board will stand up strong against such immoral actions, and for wisdom and guidance for the decisions they must make.

Children are created in the image of God, and we must not allow them to be led down the path of destruction. We have an allpowerful God, but He also wants us to take the responsibility He gave to us, to stand strong for the well being of the children. Parents and all those interested, make your voice be heard.

If you can, come to the school board meeting on Tuesday, June 8 at 7 p.m. Help to keep Florence Carlton and all the valley schools to uphold high moral standards.

Grace Wilson Stevensville

Unhappy with editor’s decision

To the editor: You are the editor of the Bitterroot Star newspaper, hired by your employers Jesse and Sasha Mullen. And as editor you have the right to publish whatever you desire to publish. You have not been hired to be cancelled by those who do not agree with what you print, or mis-read what you choose to print. You are the one in charge of editing, not those who choose to pick apart what you do.

I found it appalling that you were apologizing for printing the cartoon that so many of your readers appreciated and applauded that you published! At long last we were seeing a balance in what was being published, just as Jesse Mullen had promised when he addressed some of us citizens at the Frontier Cafe when he and Sasha first purchased the paper.

The cartoon had nothing to do about the teacher and the staff. It had to do with what was being taught inside, as you said yourself…

“If you don’t work on what happens inside the school, you haven’t really addressed the whole picture.” Schools are about the children of the community. And no student should have to leave high school without being totally prepared for real life. Or be subjected to what would destroy their innocence and thought processes.

Parents and grandparents in the whole of the USA are upset at what is not being taught in schools: the basics of reading, writing and arithmetic; including English, true history of the U.S. of A., logical thinking cultivated so the students can think for themselves. No one can even debate or carry on a discussion of anything because no one knows how to “listen” and “learn.” And every discussion is viewed as an “emotional” situation. Grow up! Think, listen and get wise!

This past week a poll showed that 81% of Americans want school choice!

Susan McCreary Stevensville

A rare opportunity

Thirty years ago, Montana lost one of the seats in the U.S. House of Representatives we had held for eighty years. The mathematical formula that was used to determine the distribution of Representatives after Census counts had worked against us. The result was that Montana lost half our representation in the U.S. House while other states with many members, actually gained representatives.

The loss made the single Montana district the most populous in the country, with more people scattered over a larger area than any other Congressional district. What had to happen was a radical reduction in visits to rural communities by their “personal representative.”

I was attending a meeting of other western state legislators at about that time, and was lamenting the brutal unfairness of the 1991 reapportionment on Montana to a legislator who turned out to be from California. “Well,” he said, “I feel sorry for you, but not too sorry,” and then pointedly pointed out to me that Montana was actually greatly over-represented in Congress. This was so, he said, because we had three people looking out for the national interests of our population of about 800,000 people, which he quickly calculated worked out to one member of Congress for 266,000 people, whereas California Congressional districts were more than twice that size.

My flabbergasted response was that he was counting Montana’s two U.S. Senators, and that our Constitution allows all states, including California, two Senators. He said that in representing a state, didn’t a Senator also represent the people of the state? I said, “Of course, they do.” “Well,” he said, “that’s the huge advantage you little “jack-pine and jack-rabbit states” have over the states that actually contain the people.” I resented his characterization, but it carried the stark message that we don’t always see ourselves as others see us.

I was reminded of that conversation by the wonderful news that by the same formula that penalized us in 1991, we have our lost seat back again. The big loser, this time, is New York, which by the 2020 census count came up short by fewer than 100 people, and so will go from 27 to 26 seats.

I doubt few Montanans feel too sorry for New York, but by the same calculation the California legislator used with me, Montana will soon have four people in Congress looking out for about a million of us, compared to New York where one Congressperson represents about 700,000 people.

Significantly more representation for Montana in Congress is unquestionably good news for Montana. Former Democratic Congressman Pat Williams recently commented that he and his colleague, the late Republican Congressman Ron Marlenee, accomplished far more together for Montana than either ever could have alone.

A citizen apportionment commission is now in the process of deciding where to draw the line that will divide Montana into two Congressional districts. In the 2022 general election, Montanans will choose our two Representatives. If it works out that we elect a Democrat and a Republican, as was Montana’s tradition for the eight decades in which we had two districts, we must wonder whether in today’s political climate they will be able to function as well together for Montana, as Williams and Marlenee did 30 years ago.

Bob Brown Whitefish Bob Brown is a former MT Secretary of State and State Senate President.

Bitterroot Star staff Jesse Mullen is the Publisher

Victoria Howell is the Editor: editor@ bitterrootstar.com

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

James Pickford sells advertising: james@bitterrootstar.com

Christina Bledsoe designs advertising: design@sspmt.com

Matt Johnson

bills our customers: mgr@sspmt.com

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

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

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

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

Member 2016 Member 2021

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 5

North Valley Library moving forward Bitterroot Library welcomes new youth on addressing building challenges services librarian

by Denise Ard, Director, North Valley Public Library

If you are a regular user The community is getting of the library, you know that bigger and we have no we have an old threadbare room to grow. These are the red carpet held together with negatives. duct tape, covering a squeaky The library’s Board if uneven floor causing a tripping Trustees has for many hazard. years been tracking the You probably also noticed community and the needs that our library is noisy and of the current physical the designated “quiet area” in facility in keeping with the back of the library is not the goals of their strategic sufficient. You may have come plan. The current structure in wanting to have a small is not sufficient, but what private conference and found to do about it? Would it be there were no small private cost effective to tear down conference rooms. Or that the and rebuild part of it? Or children’s area is too close to sell it and move to another the computers and that it is location? Maybe some hard to concentrate and work other option? The Board when kids are playing. If you’re asked the Director what a teen or parent you might have was needed in a library. noticed we have teen books, but The Director compiled not a teen area. theFacilities Plan. You Perhaps you noticed the can read the Facilities cement poles you have to avoid Plan on our website at to access the adult stacks which northvalleylibrary.org/ were installed with shims to facilities-plan keep the sagging ceiling from Now that we have the falling down. plan, the Board recently You probably were not aware decided they cannot make though that the upstairs is not any more decisions unless habitable and engineers have they have a cost analysis said that the public could not of the different options. be up there and that we cannot Library staff member demonstrates how difficult it would be to actually This what is called an even use it for storage because exit the building through this door, especially for disabled people. architectural assessment or staff should not be up there a Preliminary Architectural If you are in a wheelchair, or know either. You might not have Report (PAR). This is someone that has a physical aliment, it realized that programming staff have to the first step to a major renovation may have struck you as more than a little work in cramped converted restrooms or or a new construction, and the board odd that the emergency exit out the back that we do not have enough workstations will be advertising for proposals from is not accessible. or library storage. architectural firms in the coming months.

Brickley to cover sports for Star The Bitterroot Star welcomes Mikayln Brickley to the team as sports reporter.

Brickley was born in Missoula but has lived all over the States, including New Mexico, Arizona, Tennessee, Arkansas, and even Thailand.

She graduated from Hamilton

High School last year, where she played softball, basketball and soccer. She was named All-State her junior year in softball, but unfortunately didn’t get the chance to play her senior year due to COVID-19. She just finished her first semester at Arkansas

Tech University where she is majoring in Journalism with an emphasis in Public Relations. She hopes to one day be a freelance writer of some sort, and have the opportunity to travel and experience as many cultures as possible.

Before

“I am very passionate about sports and my community,” says Brickley, “so I am very grateful to be in a position that allows me to be involved in both. I love spending time with family and friends, and especially my puppy Winston.

When I’m not at a game, I’m usually at the river or eating some really good food. I like to take pictures of pretty people and pretty places, so I am beyond blessed to live somewhere with an unending supply of both.”

After Refacing

Most projects completed in 2-5 days.

REFACING • CABINET PAINTING • REDOORING CUSTOM CABINETS • 1 DAY TUNE-UP • AND MORE

STARTING

Thomas Schmitt | Local Owner

406.375.0262

kitchentuneup.com

AS LOW AS

$99-$249

Visit Us Inside Sears Hometown Store:

A MONTH!

1704 North First Street Suite A • Hamilton, MT 59840 Each franchise is locally owned and operated.

FREE IN-HOME CONSULTATIONS

by Nathan Boddy The Bitterroot Public Library has added a new member to its staff with Ravalli County local, Annika Riley, as the Library’s Youth Services Librarian. While new to the Hamilton location, Riley brings with her the four years of experience she gained at the North Valley Public Library’s Youth Services Specialist in Stevensville. Prior to her tenure with the public library system in the Bitterroot Valley, she’d also spent five years as an elementary school teacher with both Corvallis and Hamilton school districts, but finds her work in the library to be a fitting place for her efforts in education.

“I feel like, working at a library and getting to put on these programs for kids is like all of the best parts of teaching,” she said.

As the Youth Services Librarian, Riley’s role is to design and offer a variety of programming for all kids as well as assuring the availability of appropriate materials for checkout.

Additionally, she will be managing outreach with the community such as school visits. Annika Riley, Youth Services Librarian at “I try to provide Bitterroot Public Library. Photo by Nathan programs that will Boddy. appeal to extroverted as well as introverted so that everybody will want to participate,” said Riley. “I design the regular programs that we host here at the library, but we also seek out and bring in other talent.”

The Bitterroot Public Library will continue to host its Preschool Story Time this year with reading for children to take place each Friday at 10:30, weather dependent. Each story time is developed around an age appropriate theme, and intended to stimulate understanding of a topic. Due to Covid, registration is required, but the group should expand in July into separate ‘baby/toddler’ and ‘children’ groups. Also visiting will be some of the exciting regional groups such as Animal Wonders, spectrUM, Missoula Irish Dancers and the Montana Natural History Museum.

Riley says that the role of a public library is to “take learning to a place that is more authentically connected to the world around us and encourage a lifetime of learning.”

That encouragement is on display with the ‘6 Book Reading Challenge’ to begin on June 14th for youth ages 5 to 18.

Participants will be encouraged to stop by the library to check out six books that they can read prior to August 6th. Each young reader will fill out a small report on their chosen books and then discuss further reading recommendations and their reports with the Youth Services team at the Library for a $10 gift card. Not to be outdone, the Teddy Bear Reading Club for ages 0-4 will also provide an opportunity for the youngest readers to complete early literacy activities to earn prizes.

One exciting new program for this summer was developed

by Youth Services Assistant, Katharine Key, whose position was made possible by the passage of the 2020 Mill Levy. The program, SAGA (Summer Afternoon Group Activities), will expose upper-elementary aged youth to such exciting events as the BEAR Ropes course, Kitchen Science Lab, Theater Workshop and more. Registration is required via the Library website or phone.

A graduate of the University of Montana, and mother of two, Riley says that she enjoys the impact that libraries can have on kids and moments such as when, “kids come into the Library and get loud and animated because we have a book they’ve been wanting to read or we have a book on a certain topic that they’re super excited about! Or when I recommend a book to a kid or teen and they come back to the Library and tell me how much they loved it and want more recommendations!”

Says Riley, “My vision for the future of Youth Programming at BPL is having a space for just youth to come create, make, tinker, play, etc. Where youth from all walks of life feel included.”

For more information and to register for events, visit the Events Calendar page at https://bitterrootpubliclibrary.org.

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 6

Come to Learn! Come to Play!

Come to WIN!

at Spring Into Summer!

June 5 • 10 am - 5 pm Ravalli County Fairgrounds

June 11, 12 & 13, 2021 Win Great Prizes!

Bitterroot River Inn - 139 Bitterroot Plaza - Hamiilton

Plus a Silent Auction to Benefit

Schedule of Events

Friday, June 11 - 5PM to 10PM Reception begins at 5PM - No-Host Bar, Complimentary Hors d’Oeuvres.

Saturday, June 12 - 10AM until 7PM Show open all day. Artist demonstrations Sunday, June 13 - 10AM to 4PM Last chance to get that perfect addition to your collection.

Artists demonstrations

Free Admission Daily!

714 N. 1st St. Hamilton 406-363-3351

CCCCCC SSSSS “WW BBBBB

Alizarin Crimson

Hamilton Advanced Dentistry KPAX-TV - Missoula Missoulian/Ravalli Republic Neff’s Flooring & Design Valley Furniture - Hamilton

Cobalt Blue

Bolen-Kapor Fine Arts Bitterroot Star

Cadmium Yellow

Michele Kapor Fine Art Mountain Broadcasting Taste of Paris Jason Baker Team - Rise Realty

Thanks to Our Sponsors: Titanium White Sponsors Garden City Granite ABC Acres - A Permaculture Farm Grizzly Broadband Allegra Print & Imaging Grizzly Gold & Silver A Mountain View Photography Hamilton Packing Co. Art Focus Framing & Gallery Hamilton RV Sales & Rental Bitterroot Drug Hilton Garden Inn Bitterroot Frames Joe’s Studio Bitterroot Performing Arts Council Marcia Ballowe Fine Art Burlap Chic Jones Korman Insurance Burnich Frame & Moulding Massa Home Center Coffee Cup Café Montana Bliss Artworks Corwin Galleries The Paper Clip Clearwater Properties Pharaohplex Theaters Douglas Dirkson Fine Art

Rainbow Bar Second Street Sushi Shed Horn Cellars Snowy Mountain Rifles Steve Wilson Fine Art Wimp’s Body Works, Inc. Amy Arnold Bob & Judith DeYoung Larry & Lori Draper Dick & Judy Estler Andy & Louise Massie Pete & Kathy Myers Linda Stern

O O O O O O O AAA A A A A A A ”

30’X36’X10’ HORSE BARN W/8’ LEAN-TO

30’X40’X10’ GARAGE/HOBBY SHOP

30’X60’X12’ STORAGE BUILDING

24’X32’X10’ GARAGE/HOBBY SHOP

40’X60’X12’ GARAGE/HOBBY SHOP

30’X48’X16’ DRIVE THRU RV STORAGE

Call for your free estimate To l l F re e : 1-855-MQS Barn (677-2276)

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

w w w. m q s b a r n . c o m

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

HABITAT: lots needed now

Bitterroot Star -- Page 7

continued from page one But, says Bean, “the biggest issue right now is there are just no lots available for us to buy” on which to build more Habitat homes. He admits that the price of lots is also a factor, since they have gone up in the current boom from $35-45k for a lot in town to $69-70k. “But the biggest limiting factor is that there are just no lots.”

He said they are in need of lots in Hamilton or any of the valley communities. The lots can be rural or in town. “People just don’t seem to want to sell their empty lots right now,” said Bean.

Bean and Fifield said they want the public to know what a worthwhile program this is and to consider donating or selling them a lot. “This is a great program,” said Fifield. “We don’t get political in anything that we do. It’s not a handout, it’s a hand up. When you see what it does for the families - it’s just amazing.”

Bean said the local program has five full-time employees, “a great group of people.” The store, in a big, rambling building that also houses the office, is leased and they have been notified that it’s now for sale. According to Bean, buying it

is not a possibility for Habitat, due to the price.

He said that the office could move anywhere, but it will be more difficult to find a new home for the ReStore which is such a valuable community asset.

“But this is not the critical issue for us right now,” emphasized Bean. “Finding the land to build homes on is our main priority.”

The local Habitat for Humanity has a seven-member board, with members from Stevensville to Darby. “It’s a diverse group,” said Fifield.

“I’m very happy to be able to work with this program,” said Bean. “It’s a great group of people.”

“I grew up in Darby,” adds Fifield. “I graduated from Darby High School in 1971.

It felt good to move back after a long career elsewhere and give back to this community.

What this valley gave to me growing up was wonderful and now I can give back.”

He encouraged others to find out about participating by calling Bill Bean at 375-1926.

And, if you have an empty lot that you have no plans for…

Gov. Gianforte signs SB 297 with (seated left to right) Sen. Jason Ellsworth, executive director of RCEDA Julie Foster, Rep. Sharon Greef, and (standing left to right) general manager of Ravalli Electric Co-op Mark Grotbo, mayor of Hamilton Dominic Farrenkopf, director of Bitterroot College Victoria Clark, and CEO of Grizzly Broadband Jason Pond.

Governor signs bill on broadband expansion Governor Greg Gianforte was in Hamilton recently to sign into law the ConnectMT Act, providing $275 million in federal funds to expand access to reliable broadband across Montana.

“Too many of our communities, particularly in rural and frontier Montana, don’t have access to reliable broadband,” Gov. Gianforte said in Hamilton. “Greater access to broadband will increase opportunities for Montanans, whether in ag or high-tech or other Montana industries, but we need to get more cable in the ground. Today, we make a historic investment to close the digital divide. I thank Sen. Ellsworth for being a champion for expanding Montanans’ access to broadband.”

Sponsored by Senator Jason Ellsworth (R-Hamilton), Senate Bill 297 captures $275 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan Act for broadband deployment.

According to the Federal Communications

The local Habitat for Humanity offers four styles of homes in order to fit various lot configurations. Homes come in 2-, 3- or 4-bedroom models. They are made of all new materials and meet all building codes. Photo courtesy of Ravalli County Habitat for Humanity.

! d a P h s pla

We’re building a

S

$145,000

$82,000

To donate

mail a check to: Project 59870 at PO Box 8, Stevensville, MT 59870 or online at gofund.me/e440f5ac or stop by the Bitterroot Star to donate in person!

Thank you for all who have donated already!

We could not build this awesome feature without the support of this great community!

Commission, about 1 in 3 Montanans do not have access to broadband, which is three times the national average. The digital divide is even greater in Montana’s rural communities where 3 in 5 Montanans do not have access to broadband.

“Thanks to Governor Gianforte signing SB 297 into law, Republicans’ promises to create jobs, increase access to high-quality education, and improve our broadband infrastructure are being kept,” said Senate President Pro Tempore Jason Ellsworth. “With the potential for additional matching funds still on their way, this could be the largest broadband investment in Montana’s history – worth around half a billion dollars. There’s no doubt that this investment in Montana will pay major dividends for state of Montana.”

Expanding access to reliable broadband is a central element of Gov. Gianforte’s Montana Comeback Plan.

Calendar

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 8

Historic preservation talk at 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 ~ 406777-5734 ~ 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.

Gamblers Anon

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

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.

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.

Internet

TV

from

from

52

$

99

/mo.

49

$

99

/mo.

Offer ends 7/14/21. Internet not provided by DISH. Requires additional purchase of OTA antenna. Restrictions apply.

Eagle Satellite

Call us today!

800-386-7222

2nd Tuesday of each month, Senior Citizens Center, Stevensville. Doors open 6 p.m.

Start 6:30 p.m.

Family Shelter

Hamilton Parkinson’s Disease Support Group

BitterRodders Cars

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.

North Valley Pachyderm Club

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.

The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, June 4 at 12 noon at The Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be State Representative Ron Marshall. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.

St. Mary’s Parish Mass

Summer Concert Series

Join us for a Summer Concert Series in Stevensville of LIVE professional performances.

June 11: Violin through the Ages (Outdoors), 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.

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).

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.

BEAR Summer Camp

June 15 at 9:00 AM - June 15 at 5:00 PM Rising 6th-9th graders in the Bitterroot Valley! BEAR Summer Camp is open for registration - please call/text (406) 209-9901 or email caity. johnson@bearmt.org to find out more and sign up today. Full and partial scholarships are available.

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.

Stevensville Garden Club

Spring Into Summer!

National Garden Week is June 6 - 12. On Tuesday, June 8, Stevensville Garden Club and Missoula Garden Club members will tour the iris and peony gardens in Missoula. Please call Colleen at 273-3973 for more info.

Spring into Summer! is a celebration of the nonprofits that make Ravalli County a wonderful place to live, work, and play. Join us at this FREE event on Saturday, June 5 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds where you can learn about the varied and amazing programs available, win great FREE prizes, and enjoy some entertainment and activities. Sponsored by Rapp Family Foundation, Bouilla, Evans Ace Hardware, Wimps Body Works, Asmus Jewelry & Coins, Bruce Gould Realtor Berkshire Hathaway, Maria Laughlin: eXp Realty, and Don Williams Insurance, Inc. FREE raffle prizes include: an iPad Air, a laptop computer, a Dyson vacuum, a snowblower, a 50” TV, and Ultimate Tailgate Package...and more!

Starting Saturday March 6th through Saturday May 29th.

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

Victor Senior Center

Now serving meals at the Center Monday Wednesday and Friday at 11:30 am. You can still order and pickup meals to go on Monday from 11:00 am to 11:30 am. Meals served at the Center Mon, Wed,Fri at 11:30 am Bridge every Tuesday @ 1:00pm Bingo every Tuesday @ 6:00 pm starting May 4.

2021 SEASON

The Victor Heritage Museum will be opening its doors to the public May 31st, Memorial Day from 1 to 4 p.m.

This is very happy news because the Museum was closed for the entire year of 2020.

The Museum is in downtown Victor on the corner of Main Street and Blake Street.

The Museum be open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 to 4 p.m. through Labor Day. There may be some changes in the schedule due to Covid 19.

Contact the Musuem at 406-642-3997; victormuseum@ cybernet1.com ; or Suzanne at 406-363-3165

Sapphire Quilt Club

Grief Support Group

52 years of Bringing Live Theatre to Northeastern Montana

Victor Heritage Museum

Stevenville Senior Center is now serving meals at the Center Monday thru Friday at 11:30 am.

Coffee Club at 8:00 am M-F Exercise 10:00 am Tuesday and Thursday Quilters the third Tuesday of each month

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.

Faster

Worship at 11:00 a.m.

In this Church there shall be no outcasts.

Stevensville Senior Center

Three Mile Coffee

Better

203 Main St. Stevensville • 777-0028

Hamiton Senior Center

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.

Switch to DISH

ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH

North Valley Public Library events

Virtual Visit with children’s author Josh Funk! – Saturday, June 5, 10:30 am Join beloved children’s author Josh Funk, by Zoom, for read alouds and a fun Q & A session! Josh Funk is known for his Lady Pancake & Sir French Toast book series, Patience & Fortitude series, Pirasaurs, and many more. Please register on the Library’s Events Calendar, via the website, and a Zoom Meeting Link & Passcode will be emailed to you. Visit Mr. Funk’s website to learn more, https:// www.joshfunkbooks.com/. All

ages + families.

Summer Maker Kits for Kids – 2nd & 4th weeks of each month starting in June

Register every other week for a different science experiment, art/craft project, or a maker activity. Please register for each week you wish to receive a kit on the Library’s Events Calendar, via the website.

Pick up your kits on Mondays or Tuesdays during the Library’s open hours. Kits will be tailored for age groups ranging from 2-11.

Teen Workshop, Marble Paper Journals – June 11 & 18, 2 pm4:30 pm

For the first session, learn how to marble paper, a cool technique that involves floating paint on top of water and then transferring to paper.

The second session uses the paper made in the first session to cover and make your own journal. Please register on the Library’s Events Calendar, via the website. Participants are expected to attend all sessions.

Ages 12-18. Join additional Teen Workshops on July 9, 16, & 23 to create Zine/Manga and August 13 & 20 to design and 3D print RPG Mini Figurines.

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.

Melodic Splendor

A musical event, Melodic Splendor, will be sponsored by Beta Sigma Phi on June 5 at 6 pm at the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center at the Victor School. The concert will feature Prodigy Violinist, Lauran Roberts, and Prodigy Pianist, Dannielle Cromwell. There will be no charge for the event, but donations will be accepted for a local community charity. For more information contact Donna Steffensen at 406-360-9140.

Bitterroot Family Church VBS

Bitterroot Family Church will hold Vacation Bible School from June 7th to 11th from 9 a.m. to 12 noon for all entering pre-K to 6th grade. The theme is “Noah’s Ark – Exploring God’s Promises.” Kids can explore the promises God has for their lives while they discover how God kept his promises to Noah. There will be music, games, crafts, snacks and prizes. For more information or to register go to www.bitterrootfamilychurch.com or call 406-777-5677.

Vacation Bible School

Hamilton Assembly of God Church June 14-18, 9:00 – 12:00 Sign up TODAY hamiltonag.org/ministries/ kids/vbs-sign-up/

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

.

2021 VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL – BITTERROOT VALLEY DATES

Dames At Sea June 4 – June 20 You're A Good Man Charlie Brown June 25 – August 13, additional selected Saturday Matinees Ed Asner in GOD HELP US July 2 – July 4 The Spitfire Grill July 9 – August 8 Baskerville!

July 16 – August 15 Terms of Endearment August 20 – September 5

June 14-18

July 12-16

TIME

LOCATION

9am - Noon

Hamilton Assembly of God 601 W. Main St, Hamilton

9:30 – 11:30am Faith Lutheran Church 4 years thru K (snacks) 171 Lewis Lane, Hamilton

9:30am – 1:30pm

Grades 1 to 6 (snacks & lunch)

July 19-23

6pm - 8:30pm

July 26-30

8:30 - 11:30am

July 26-29

9am - 11:30am

Roots Christian Fellowship 1625 US-93, Victor

PURCHASE TICKETS ONLINE AT www.fortpecktheatre.org SHOW TIMES Fridays and Saturdays 7:30 p.m. • Sundays 4:00 p.m.

Check our website to view the new rotating schedule in July & August.

INFO / CONTACT

Theme: Who is Jesus? -– FREE Ages: 3 years to 6th grade -- Every child meets in large group to worship Jesus and learn about the Gospel, then picks 2 mini-course small group classes to learn new skills.

New skills are presented to parents on the last day of VBS. Register: Contact Pastor Craig or Carrie Nellis (363-2310) www.hamiltonag.org

Theme: Micah 6:8 “What does God ask of you but to do justice, love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” -- FREE (Donations appreciated) Ages: 4yrs thru K (9:30-11:30am) Grades 1 thru 6 (9:30am-1:30pm) Activities, songs, snacks, and bible study (lunch provided for Grades 1-6) Register: Call 363-2964 for more information (Pre-registration strongly encouraged) Theme: Totally 80’s – A Trip Through the Early Church (A.D.’s) --- FREE Ages 4 thru 6th grade -- Mon - Thur -- Bible lessons pertaining to the Early Church taught in typical 80’s style!

Opening session & skit, rotate thru various stations to reinforce Bible story & daily theme -- Friday is family night! BBQ for Parents & Children with games, music, a variety of stations, fun activities & a short message to recap the fun week.

Register @ www.rootsfellowship.com beginning on July 2, 2021.

Contact Michelle Fullante (381-4314) or email rootscfsundayschool@gmail.com

Theme: Jungle Safari - FREE The Place Church at Ages: 4-12 years --- Prizes, archery, dance, jumping castles, sno-cones, arts & crafts Barnabas Ministries 273 Fairgrounds Rd, Hamilton Registration begins July 1st at h2hm.org (limited to first 144) Contact Denise Echterling (406-350-2360)

fortpecktheatre.org or call 406-526-9943 FPST will be practicing social distancing and safety protocols

Stevensville United Methodist Church 216 College St, Stevi

Theme: Wilderness Escape: Where God Guides and Provides -- FREE Ages: K – 6th grade -- Sing, make crafts, play games, learn about God’s promises to Moses, have fun! Snacks provided daily + a BBQ lunch party for families on Thursday.

Register with the office at 406-777-5443 or steviumc@gmail.com Current as of May 11, 2021

Obituary Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 9

John A. Peters Jr. Stevensville – John A. Peters Jr., 87 of Three Mile passed away of natural causes on Wednesday, May 19, 2021. John was born on October 22, 1933 in San Rafael, California the son of the late John Sr. and Helen Peters.

John married the love of his life Patricia in Eureka, Calif., on April 7, 1962. They raised six children, John III, Debbie Lee, Jean Marie, Lisa Ann, Terri Lynn, and Cathy Eileen.

The family moved to Washington state in 1967 and to Montana in October 1973.

John was raised in Eureka, California where he was a

commercial fisherman with his dad in his youth. He began working in the forest products industry where he transitioned from logging to plywood manufacturing. He worked for Champion International for 40 years in Eureka California, Grays Harbor Washington, Seattle Washington, and finally retiring as the Bonner Plywood manager in 1995. John enjoyed hunting, gardening, golf, fishing, camping and spending time with family.

He is survived by his children; son John III; daughter Debbie (Richard), Jean (Johnny), Lisa

(David), Terri (Eric), Cathy (Joseph); grandchildren, Jamie (Kurt), Kevin (John), Christopher (Kristine), Heather (Robert), Shauna (David), Levi (Elizabeth), Brianne (George), Deirdre (Adam), Charlien, Jessica (Jeff), Amanda (Ed), and Katy (Dewey); several great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews; brothers in laws Richard, Douglas (Sharon). John was predeceased by his wife Pat in 2011, his parents and his five brothers and sisters.

John enjoyed being involved

in the Three Mile School lunch program, Three Mile Community Center, and supporting Pantry Partners.

A celebration of John’s life will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 5, at Set Free Church 101 Anns Lane, Lolo Montana.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Pantry Partners, 3614 Alc Way, Stevensville, MT 59870, Three Mile Community Senior Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Rd. Stevensville, MT 59870.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.

by his mother and father, his sister, Betty Hessling, and brother Kelly Boyer. He is survived by his sister Kay Koontz, partner Deborah Harrison, his three sons Jarrod, Dustin, and Kyle Boyer, and daughter Haley Mitchell (Chris). He also leaves behind four grandsons Jacob, Hayden, and Ian Boyer, and MJ Mitchell. Scott loved Casey and Cory Harrison, and Avery Smith, like they were his own as well.

A celebration of Scott’s life will be held on Saturday June 5th, at 11 am at Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville, Montana. There will be a private family interment

following the service.

If you would like to honor Scott, memorials in his name may be made to the Marcus Daly Foundation to benefit Marcus Daly Ambulance Services. Checks may be mailed to 1200 Westwood Drive Hamilton, Montana 59840.

You may also make a donation to the Bitterroot Public Library, located at 306 State Street Hamilton, Montana 59840.

Scott’s loved ones would like to thank Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, Dr. Paul Shingledecker & Brenda Huls, Dr. Kathryn Hurlbut and Partners In Home Care for their care and compassion.

Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Donald ‘Scott’ Boyer Hamilton - On Saturday, May 8th, 2021, Donald “Scott” Boyer of Hamilton, Montana, passed away at the age of 69 from health complications.

Scott was born on December 22nd, 1951, to Donald and Beulah Boyer of Alamosa, Colorado. He was one of four children. His childhood was marked by a love of baseball, and he was a proud Eagle Scout. Scott graduated from Alamosa High School in 1969, then went onto study at Adams State University. He then went on to work in the lighting industry for 47 years, owning and operating his own business for nearly 30 years.

He was very passionate about his work and was loved and respected by many across the industry

Scott loved reading and was an avid golfer for many years. He was an incredible cook, and he couldn’t get enough Mexican food or sushi. He always enjoyed meeting people and turned everyone he met into a lifelong friend. He was very gifted at making connections. Scott was known for his story telling, humor, bright blue eyes, and infectious smile.

He also enjoyed cheering on the Denver Broncos, Montana Grizzlies, and Seeley-Swan Blackhawks, and spending time with his kids and grandkids whom he loved very, very much.

Scott was preceded in death

Death Notices Judith A. ‘Judy Bailey Victor - Judith A. “Judy” Bulley, 78, passed away in the night, Wednesday, May 26, 2021, at the Missoula Health & Rehabilitation Center. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to care for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com

Mary K. Neal Corvallis - Mary K. Neal, 101, passed away in the night, Thursday, May 20, 2021, at her home. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to care for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com

Lynn J. Dickson Missoula - Lynn J. Dickson, 51, passed away in the afternoon, Sunday, May 23, 2021, at the St.Patrick Hospital with family by his side. Brothers Mortuary and Crematory are honored to care for the family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com

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.

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.

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 10

County considers how to spend $8.5 million in ARPA funds

by Michael Howell Ravalli County Commissioners are considering how best to spend the $8.5 million that has already been allocated to the county under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) for reimbursement for negative impacts related to COVID-19. The funding can be used to cover eligible expenses incurred between March 3, 2020 and December 31, 2020.

Chief Financial Officer Klarysse Murphy told the commissioners that the biggest concern at the moment is getting on the computer portal

and registering for the funds. She said they were working with state officials to get though several phases involved in accessing the funds and that currently they were still working on a very general level in terms of what expenses would be eligible for reimbursement based on an Interim Final Report. She said the “final” final report probably won’t be out until mid-June.

Initially, the eligibility list includes expenses related to public health emergencies due to the pandemic and negative economic impacts related to COVID-19 including

premium pay for employees doing essential work during COVID-19 and provision of government services experiencing a reduction in revenue due to COVID-19 as well as needed improvements to water, sewer and broadband infrastructure.

Murphy acknowledged that right now they were still in a highflying overview stage concerning the eligibility questions but that they had time to consider things and wait for the details to roll in.

“The money is there,” she said “We can ask for it today. We can ask for it two months from now. The pot is

there, and it is not going away.”

According to Murphy, all county employees are considered essential under the program and premium payments made to the employees during the period could be reimbursed. But pension funds cannot simply be propped up with the funding. Murphy also noted that the funds are not just for county operations but for countywide expenses and other essential employees may be covered by awarding grants to eligible private businesses, such as people working in food production facilities, grocery

stores, janitors, sanitation workers, truck drivers and warehouse workers.

“There’s a lot out there that falls under this,” said Murphy.

Murphy also cautioned the commissioners that trying to figure out the county’s lost revenue related to COVID-19 would probably not be cost-effective. She said it would probably cost more to figure it out than they would get back because the formulas involved are so “crazy and ridiculous” with their backward and forward projections.

The county’s first deadline in the process is a report due on August 31.

Petition filed with EPA over relaxed water quality standards

by Michael Howell A recently adopted Montana state law removing “numeric” nutrient water quality standards as a criteria has been challenged by the Upper Missouri Waterkeepers, an organization that has been involved in litigation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over the variances that were allowed under the numeric standards. The organization has now petitioned the EPA to declare the new state law in violation of the Clean Water Act. The state of Montana, which was the first state in the nation to adopt numeric nutrient standards for water quality in 2015, made a 180 degree turn around when Senate Bill 358 was passed into law. The bill, sponsored by Senator John Esp (R-Big Timber), removed numeric nutrient standards as a criteria for enforcing point source pollution levels from public and private wastewater treatment discharge systems. Esp said it was because the numeric standards DEQ was using are too stringent for municipalities and water and sewer districts to comply with. As a result they have been forced to seek variances until they can come into compliance. But that, according to Esp and his supporters, is not technologically possible and may not ever be possible. Esp was supported in passing the legislation by the League of Cities and Towns, mining and gas interests as well as other private system operators.

With numerical standards revoked, the state is by default left with the “narrative” standards that are still in place. Numerical nutrient standards rely on actual measurements of the amount of nitrogen and phosphorous in the water, both of which can be harmful to the

environment and to human health in excessive quantities. Numerical limits were set to ensure that nitrogen and phosphorous components do not reach harmful levels. Narrative standards, as traditionally applied, are generally based on observable impacts of nutrient pollution such as algal blooms, oxygen starved zones, fish kills, or loss of aquatic insects. Critics of the change point out that once these kinds of observable impacts show themselves, it is very difficult to reverse the nutrient overload and return to a healthy level in the system.

The Upper Missouri Waterkeepers have been in federal court since 2019, not challenging the states numeric standards, but challenging the variances to the rule that it claims are so sweeping and so long lasting that they render the standards useless. According to executive director of the group Guy Alsentzer, they got a partially favorable ruling in federal district court that the variances were unlawful but the issue is currently under appeal in Appellate Court.

Alsentzer called the legislature’s passage of SB 358 “nothing but an attempt by polluters to make an end run around the Clean Water Act.” “Montana has great scientific studies proving on a numeric level what level of nutrients, nitrogen and phosphorous we can we allow into Montana’s waterways and still keep them healthy,” he said.

“What’s troubling about SB 358,” said Alsentzer, “is that, aside from its ignoring science and dramatically expanding exemptions for pollution to our streams and rivers, is the manner in which it blatantly disregards mandates of the Clean Water Act.” He said for the state to amend water quality standards

requires EPA review and approval before they are binding as a matter of federal law.

Alsentzer said that by putting an immediate effective date on its enforcement, the state “was essentially thumbing its nose at EPA.” He said the Clean Water Act requires EPA approval of any changes to a water quality standard within 90 days of a state changing them.

“Here, the state of Montana acted in bad faith,” said Alsentzer. “It changed its standards with an immediately effective date and without EPA approval. Long story short, our legislature and governor are more focused on bottom lines and corporate profit margins and about making it easy for developers to continue to develop without looking at what’s necessary to protect our waterways from harm.” He said that under the law his group had no option but to formally petition the EPA to make a determination that SB 358, its components both alone and together are unlawful and violate the Clean Water Act. He said at the same time they petitioned the EPA to formally reinstate Montana’s numeric nutrient pollution criteria “and again make the rule of law encompass a science based understanding of what’s necessary to prevent nutrient pollution in our waterways.”

Since the Senate bill became law immediately upon signing, the state Department of Environmental Quality has until March 1, 2022 to establish new narrative assessment measures. The agency is collaborating with a “nutrient working group” composed of representatives from environmental groups, industry representatives and someone from the EPA to develop replacement standards. Any new standards will require EPA approval prior to adoption. According to Hannah Riedl of

DEQ, the working group has met once already and will meet monthly to consider potential changes to the standards.

The state is also moving forward with what it calls a new “adaptive management system” as an alternative to the variances which are already under legal challenge. The new adaptive system will allow the agency to work directly with each discharger on a case by case basis to see if any problems can be mitigated.

Alsentzer said that all the evidence shows that this narrative approach has never worked, “and that’s the exact reason that EPA over the last two decades has told states that they need to adopt independent numeric science based criteria for protecting waterways from nutrients.” He said filing the petition under the Clean Water Act and the under the Administrative Procedures Act was the group’s only avenue of relief for addressing such bad faith by a state.

“If EPA doesn’t take action within 90 days then a suit may be filed in federal court to compel them,” he said. “We hope EPA is going to do the right thing. Science and robust record shows that, without a doubt, numeric criteria are the best technology and best available science to tell us exactly how we can best protect our water in Montana. Ignoring that criteria is not only arbitrary and capricious, but it is also 100% unnecessary and it’s going to sacrifice our world class rivers and all the different economies and jobs that it supports.”

A report issued by DEQ in 2020 showed that 35% of Montana’s river miles and 22% of its lake-acreage is considered impaired by nutrient pollution.

Posting Date May 31, 2021

Sports Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 11

Florence is state softball champion

by Mikayln Brickley On May 29, the Florence-Carlton high school softball team won their eleventh state championship since 1999. After defeating Shepherd and Cut Bank to earn their way to the semi-final game, the Lady Falcons beat Mission-Arlee-Charlo, 12-5, to advance their way to the chipper.

After beating Columbus-AbsarokeePark City in the loser-takes-third game, MAC fought their way back into the championship game to face the Falcons one last time.

MAC took off with an early lead in the game, ending the top of the third with a score of 3-0. Florence, however, is no stranger to adversity and quickly answered with a massive

fourth inning at the plate, scoring six runs all with two outs. Freshman Autumn Sutton catapulted the seven-hit inning with a single to right field, scoring a run to tie the

Above: The Champions!

Photo by Jason Larson. Left: Jaden Hendrickson on 1st base attempting to tag out the Cut Bank runner after she rounded too far off first. Photo by Stephanie Geiser.

score at 3-3. Right after, the junior catcher, Kasidy Yeoman, drove the ball down the right field line for a stand-up triple and two RBIs. And from there they just kept going.

The Falcons won the championship with an outstanding offense, totaling 11 hits and 10 runs.

Junior center-fielder Jaidyn Larson led the Falcons in hits, going 3-for4 at the plate with three doubles.

Kylie Kovatch toed the rubber for Florence all four games in the State

tournament. She won the game with eight hits allowed and three strikeouts.

The freshly crowned State Champs ended their season with a record of 24 wins and just three losses.

The Falcons will only lose three seniors, with two being starters, so they expect to compete next year, and hopefully add to the 11 banners hanging on the fence of Otto Thill Field in Florence.

Hamilton boys take state track title

by Mikayln Brickley

The track athletes of the Bitterroot Valley headed to Laurel to compete in the 2021 A-B State Track Meet this past weekend. The Hamilton boys took home the first-place trophy with an overall score of 87 in A State, with second place (Beaverhead County) scoring a mere 61. Hamilton junior Colter Kirkland won first in the 800 meters with a PR of 1:56.85 and the mile with a time of 4:29.05. Andy Purcell took second in the 1600, finishing only .87 seconds behind Kirkland.

Lane Cole from Hamilton set a new PR in the 3200 meters race, winning the State title with a time of 9:49.00. Brinson Wyche (Corvallis) trailed Cole by just 3 seconds, and finished with a time of 9:52.26. Kellan Beller from Stevensville won second in the 110 meter hurdles, timing 16.17. The Hamilton boys’ 4x400 relay, comprised of Eli Taylor, Colter Kirkland, Lance Cole and Colter Purcell, took second, scoring a time of 3:28.44.

In the boys’ throwing events, Tyler Burrows of Hamilton scored second in the discus, and fourth in the shot put. Kellan Beller earned another medal, throwing a 169’7” in javelin to

take home first. Jason Jessop from Corvallis earned third in the javelin with a distance of 164’4”. Colter Kirkland also placed third in the pole vault, with a PR of 12’6”.

In the B competition, Nathaniel Gale from Florence took home third in the 1600 and 3200, earning a PR in the mile of 4:34.14.

Luke Maki, also from Florence, placed third in the javelin, throwing a 158’4”.

For the girls, Olivia Lewis from Corvallis won third in the 100 and 300, setting a PR in both events. The Corvallis girls’ 4x400 relay placed second overall, with a score of 4:09.58.

The girls’ relay team includes Emelia Schairer, Olivia Lewis, and sisters Kailen and Rylee Herbstritt. Katelyn Dickemore (Hamilton) set a new PR of 40’7¼” in the shotput placing second, with Madison Lewis from Corvallis taking third with a distance of 39’11¼”.

Dickemore also won first in the discus, blowing her competition out of the water with a score of 138’10”. Brooke Powell from Corvallis placed fourth in the javelin, with a new PR of 120’10”. Camas Cratty (Hamilton) won second in the girls’ high jump with a height of 5’.

Bitterroot Bucs coach claims one hundredth win

by Mikayln Brickley On Tuesday, May 25, the Bitterroot Bucs head coach, Austin Nogle, claimed his 100th win after defeating the Bitterroot Red Sox, 8-1. Coach Nogle is “super excited and just happy to do it with these guys who have been there with me the whole time.”

Zach Christopherson threw an amazing game on the mound for the Bucs, with only five hits allowed and four strikeouts. The Bucs gained an early lead in the game, scoring 2 in the first inning off a sac fly from Colby Kohlman and a single to center by Brenden Schneider.

For the Red Sox, sophomore Harley Fogel started on the mound, throwing two innings with two strikeouts. Jackson Jessop relieved Fogel in the Bitterroot Bucs pitcher Zach Christopherson. Photo by Mikayln Brickley. third, finishing the game Paul Brenneman home. with five strikeouts. The In the end, the Bucs played a great game of Red Sox lone run was scored in the top of the baseball, and took home the win as a result. sixth by a double from Aaron Springer, driving

“These guys are always going to come out of 7-5. This won’t be the last time these two and give you a good baseball game,” said teams meet, and as Nogle said of their league, Nogle of their historically rival team. “We “anybody can beat anyone on any given day.” just want to come out and play our game The Bucs’ next home game will be Sunday, and not let them affect what we were June 6, against Mission at 1 p.m. doing.”

And that’s exactly what the Bucs did.

With a total of six hits and no errors, they dominated at the plate as well as the diamond.

The two teams played again Wednesday night, and although the Red Sox put up more of a fight, the Bucs still came out on top with a score Red Sox pitcher Jackson Jessop. Photo by Mikayln Brickley.

Bitterroot Star -- Page 12

Crossword Puzzle

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

PRIDE: beautification or vandalism continued from page one

ACROSS 1. Torah table 5. Similar 9. Tel __ 10. Small herring 11. Comedian Jay 12. Magi’s gift 13. Bring about 15. Flurry 16. Bod 18. Not anywhere 21. Whiz 22. Shirk 26. Deceive 28. Roman cloaks 29. Orderly arrangement 30. Neglect 31. For fear that 32. Sleep

DOWN 1. Indonesian island 2. Flat 3. Thinker 4. Profess 5. Espy 6. Tapestry 7. __ Gras 8. Basic beliefs 10. Wipes 14. Brash 17. Land plot 18. Whining speech 19. Orange yellow 20. Puts on clothing 23. ___ schooled, place 24. Aegis 25. Power unit 27. Lab animal © Feature Exchange

Outstanding in his field Merle Unruh

Call today

Talk to Merle for all your Real Estate Needs!

Hamilton 363-4700

Month, with several attendees and council members unsure if the painting was for the month of June, or intended to be a permanent fixture. The intention of the proposal is for a permanent installment, to be maintained on a yearly basis, and rapidly attended to in the case of vandalism. The students said that the materials required for painting and maintaining of the crosswalk would be donated by Evans Ace Hardware, and that they are willing to work with the City to schedule completion of the work. Their estimate is that it would likely require 30 hours for all prep coating and final painting to complete.

In her summary of the need for such an installment, Carrasco said, “Our generation is seeking more inclusion and less division in our community and our world…This project would make me and my peers proud to call this place home.”

The first to speak during public comment was area resident, Michael Sargent, who was plainly at odds with the idea. “I feel like painting our crosswalks with this political statement is not inclusive at all. It includes some, but because it includes some it excludes others.”

Debra Morgan was also against the proposal, so much so that she likened it to vandalism. “I have nothing against gays, gay pride. As long as you’re a nice person, you’re okay with me. But I don’t think that means… and it will turn into, ‘well I want a crosswalk for this, I want a crosswalk for that’, you know? I don’t dare say ‘I want a white pride crosswalk’, that’s racist. If I say ‘straight pride’, I’m homophobic. I just feel like it’s a slippery slope that the city is going to be sliding down for months if not years to come

if we start painting the crosswalks for every single little thing somebody wants to pound their chest about.” Morgan finished by adding, “Be proud, but don’t vandalize the city doing it.”

While several other speakers urged caution or outright opposed the project, multiple comments were made in strong support of the project as well as in praise of the quality of Carrasco’s presentation.

Kathy Dexter, a local medical provider who supports the proposal, spoke about the difficulty that young people can feel in the midst of traditionally conservative small towns which may not seem to welcome them. “I understand the concern about a marginalized group taking every crosswalk in town and I say, if that’s what it takes to make people feel like they’re worthy, I say let’s paint every crosswalk in town.”

David Evans echoed that sentiment by saying, “It is not a political statement. It is a statement about love and inclusion and it will be a beautiful project that will beautify the city. I would welcome another one.” He also pointed out that the people represented by the project have no control over how they were born, and added, “I think those people need to be, as mentioned, welcomed.”

Deb Eckhart, a local mental health provider, gave multiple statistics about suicide and depression rates amongst individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, adding, “I don’t see this as a political issue, I see this as a human rights issue.”

The council proceeded with their discussion of the proposal, many members questioning the obligations that

the City might have in future incidents if they were to approve the proposal.

While multiple members commented on the value and importance of the project, there was concern that a precedent could be set whereby any group could petition an installment upon public property.

Also of concern was the issue of safety upon the crosswalks and whether art and coloration there could be a distraction to drivers and pedestrians. The suggestion was given several times that the issue might best be addressed by a Public Arts Commission and a regulating ordinance.

Councilor Claire Kemp noted that, “this is a really hard decision to make, but I don’t feel prepared to make that decision.”

Councilor Kristi Bielski gave her support to the project noting, “This is one small thing that we can show our kids and our community that we care about them and that they are part of our community.”

Several ideas, such as a smaller or temporary display were discussed, but the overall sentiment seemed to be captured by Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf when he noted, “I know we just did this with Bike/Walk/Bitterroot, and it should be a good chance for us to take pause and say, is this how we want to proceed with all our crosswalks, and if we do want this public art, is that the place for it?”

The council agreed to move with caution, and asked City staff to answer detailed questions about the project prior to having the issue reviewed again at the next COW meeting on June 8th.

DIVERSITY: creating a safe space continued from page one McLaughlin did a lot of research on her own and found that certain policies were in conflict. “It was frustrating to me because of the nature of the group,” she said. “Would this have even been brought up if this had been a book club or an aeronautics club?”

So she sent an email to school superintendent Brian Rayburn expressing her concerns and suggesting that the school policy was discriminatory.

Then she met with Rayburn and he told her they had taken it to their lawyer and would be talking about it at the next board meeting, in May. McLaughlin begin to hear buzz in the community, “a lot of concern.” She sent a letter to the board asking them not to require permission slips for students to participate in the club. “I requested that the group have the ability to continue to have an advisor. I asked that they don’t disband this group. I stated statistics about the higher rate of suicide among LGBTQ+ youth and how important I thought this was.”

On social media, McLaughlin began to see posts circulating naming her family and others, accusing them of recruiting and indoctrinating children into a secret gay and lesbian club. “They said we were trying to ruin the school” and were urging people to attend the May board meeting in protest.

“My daughter and I got to the May board meeting early,” said McLaughlin.

“More and more people started to come in. There were lots of American flags. A prayer circle took place in the parking lot. There was such a big presence that the board felt the need to call law

enforcement. The board meeting took for something that we cannot control. about four hours prior to talking about Nobody should ever feel like they are these policies. It was four hours of unwanted, unloved, and invisible. This tension.” unfortunately is the life of some middle McLaughlin said the superintendent school students at Florence-Carlton recommended a few changes, nothing School. My group strives for equality, to prohibit the group, and the board no matter your sexual orientation, race, voted 3-2 to approve on first reading gender identity, etc. I will not stand here the amended policy on school clubs and let my friends be silenced. I will not and allow the group to remain. It will stand here and let the children who come be voted on again in June, with final after me be oppressed because people approval in July. She’s hoping the Gayare ignorant. We need to normalize the Straight Alliance will be considered fact that just because people are different an informal group, which would mean doesn’t mean we are any less important that no parental permission slips are than people who fit in. I have dealt with required. the feeling of loneliness for all of my life McLaughlin’s 12-year-old daughter because people are so close-minded, read a prepared statement at the May and I refuse to let the people who come board meeting. after me have to feel like that. Our Here is her statement: group is important for people’s mental “First off, I would like to thank you health, well-being, and overall school for letting me use this time to advocate environment. For my final statement, for the people I love. There are 10.080 I would like to say that you are valid, minutes in a week. My peers get 30 loved, and valued. Thank you for your minutes out of the week to feel accepted. time.”

Without even that small amount, their McLaughlin said she believes “this has mental health is likely to deteriorate. gotten blown into something huge that 40% of LGBTQ+ youth have “seriously I had not anticipated. Lots of hate and considered” suicide in the past year, disturbing things were said at the board meaning 4 in 10 children have considered meeting. My daughter felt so unsafe, taking their own life. Imagine that one after giving her comment, she wanted to of your children wants to take their leave.” own life away because they can’t get the McLaughlin’s Facebook group is support they need. Gen Z is five times approaching 300 members. They are more likely to come out as part of the asking people to write letters to the board LGBTQ+ community than millennials, and superintendent. “We’re trying to meaning that there are so many more find ways to meet. We’d love to see the kids in need of this support than there group become super proactive and maybe were 30 years ago. I want children who become a non profit. The goal is for this are younger than me to have support so group to continue for years and years to that they don’t have to go through what come to provide support for these kids.” myself and my peers She added, “I would never take back are going through that original letter. Even though this was right now. I want stressful, this is something very volatile to make Florencein this valley and it needs to be discussed.

Carlton School a safe There are always going to be gay people.

New 2021 Ford place for all. A place How do we make them comfortable? where we don’t have How do we make everyone comfortable?

Ranger XLT Truck to be afraid to dance Diversity isn’t just about gays, it’s about with who we like blacks and Native Americans, everybody.

MSRP $38,185 at a school dance, We want to embrace everyone and make a place where we it a more accepting community.”

2.3L EcoBoost Engine with Auto Start-Stop Technology, Ten-Speed Automatic Transmission, don’t have to have a Anyone interested in learning more 4x4, Auto Air, Sport Appearance, Trailer Tow and Much More 1.9% APC/OAC up to 36 Mo or safety plan just to go about the Bitterroot Alliance for Diversity $2500 Factory Rebate, Ford Manufacturer Rebate and Incentive Program to the bathroom. A and Equality can contact them by email place that is free of at: b4diversityandequality@gmail.com. ridicule and hatred New 2021 Ford Transit Connect Commercial XL Cargo Van Need Help? We cover the entire valley!

Commercial-Truck

LOOK at these!

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

2.0L 4-Cylinder Engine, Front Wheel Drive, Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Power Mirrors, Cruise Control, Air Conditioning, Dual Sliding Doors, Reverse Sensing, Backup Camera, Pre-Collision Assist with Automatic Braking and more. Come check this one out or take it for a test drive today! Please call for Current Factory and Ford Credit Rebates or Lease Options. Ford Manufacturer Rebate and Incentive Program.

Bell McCall

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

• Prompt • Courteous • Professional

998 N. First Hamilton Mt 363-4050

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 13

Corvallis Memorial Day Parade!

Photos by Liz Cook.

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 14

How Does A 33 Year Old Have 112 Years Of Experience?

Issue 3 Vol. 1

ollective experience would be the suspect on this one. Erica Siphers is the newest addition to C&C Real Estate Services Team with EXIT Realty Bitterroot Valley.

Erica has degrees in Finance and Accounting from the Un i v e r s i t y of Montana and she is the 3rd generation of real estate professionals in the Siphers Family. Her background in audit accounting with some of the largest corporations in the world and her on-the-ground experience in private money financing, funding “flippers” around the United States gives her some serious insight. Her greatest asset is her relationship with the family and specifically her father, Craig, and Aunt, Char.

Along with those two, & 7 other spectacular professionals, they have in excess of 112 years of real estate experience helping buyers & sellers make there best deals in Bitterroot Valley real estate.

Relationships and experience make a HUGE difference in YOUR experience in the buying and selling process. C&C Real Estate prides itself on the best research, getting you quality and valuable information and helping you with a strategy to secure the best property for you and selling your property through tried-and-true methods and cutting edge technology. It is a fast-paced world.

You want good people who are down to earth, knowledgeable with incredible resources at their disposal like this bunch:

Next time we will discuss what is different about having a lot of Kasey McNulty

Craig@EXITrealtybv.com

superior experience in that translates to your best real estate experience.

Remember, EXIT Realty

406-788-1677

is your Smart Move.

Daniel Pendergast

Susana Moore

REALTOR®

406-360-9108

Jennifer Kistler

the marketplace and how

CRAIG SIPHERS &CHAR SIPHERS BROKER

Mike McNulty

Jeanne Wald

Craig & Char

Char@EXITrealtybv.com

THE SIPHERS FAMILY

Serving Buyers & Sellers Since 1966

EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY

www.montanarealestatepro.com 99 Marcus St., 3rd Floor, Hamilton, MT, 59840

Bitter Root Day A Cultural Heritage Event At the Ravalli County Museum

Buy 45 units of Botox and

get 15 units FREE!

brating 5 Years!

Bitter Root Plants for Sale - Salish Drummers and Dancers Crafts, Food & Produce, Local & Beyond FREE Family Activities - Live Music FREE SpectrUM Discovery Area FREE Museum Tours ...and more!

$180 Savings!

Botox® or Newtox®

SPECIAL

40 Units & Get 10 FREE

100 of any Juvederm® Product

day for a FREE consultation

Image from stereoview by N.A. Forsyth Title: Starting Supper circa 1908 2007-F029-001

Sponsored by:

Jane S. Heman Three Chiefs Foundation Cultural Center

Ravalli County Museum & Historical Society 205 Bedford Hamilton, MT 406-363-3338 www.ravallimuseum.org

Builders, Inc Siding

Russ Frickey (208)704-5773

June 12th | 9am - 1pm font is calibri

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 15

Chuck Stranahan’s

Flyfishing Journal

High Water Chronicles 2021, part 5

I was wrapping up a talk and demonstration on safe wading technique, part of a weekendlong fly fishing class, when I tried to walk casually out of calf-deep and nearly still water where the algae had grown a little thicker on the rocks and – you can see this coming – I stepped on a slippery rock and went over backward quicker than if I had stepped on a bar of soap.

I made a big splash and got very wet in a big hurry, and the small group of students didn’t think for a moment to see if I was OK before they burst out laughing.

In the fraction of a second that it took to upend, suspend in mid-air and then land with a loud splash, I saw the whole scene play out in slow motion in my mind’s eye: I was laughing before I hit the water.

I don’t remember who said what when I made it to shore; we couldn’t quit laughing and the one-liners flew.

Looking back, there are three takeaways to this story: 1) the algae is often thicker and slicker in the calm water near the shore; 2) sooner or later we’re all bound to take a dunking, and when it’s your turn, do it in water that offers a safe escape; and 3) I should have followed my own advice, issued just minutes before – secure the foot you’re stepping with before transferring your weight to that foot, then repeat, one foot at a time.

Wade smart, wade safe Before I made a fool of myself I made several points about safe wading – all of them well received.

Vision, safety afoot, and conditioning are paramount to safe wading.

I never thought too much about being in shape as a component of safe wading; I lived an active lifestyle and took good physical condition for granted. These days I make it a point to fish within my physical limits.

As a guide I tried to assess my client’s physical limits beforehand and conduct the ensuing day of fishing within them; even at that there were surprises.

One gentleman in his forties wanted desperately to enjoy a day on the river with his college-aged son. He didn’t want to sit in a boat all day, he wanted to experience with his son

If you’re fishing with a guide and have any physical or medical limitation that could affect your day, let the guide know. The guide doesn’t need to find out that getting in and out of a boat and navigating a rough stream bank is a hardship midway through a float where a portage is required.

Same goes for fishing with friends. Let your friends or your guide know of any physical limitation, and if you’re carrying emergency medicines, let them know where they are stored and how to administer them.

I remember a story from a friend who was about to go out with an older client the following day: “John,” the old gentleman said, ”I have a heart condition. If I start having trouble in the boat, my nitro pills are in this pocket. Put one under my tongue. But if I hook up and keel over, don’t mess with me. I’d just as soon die with a big one on!”

the camaraderie of hiking, wading, and fishing some prime pools together.

When he took his second tumble in a mild riffle and I helped him up again, I pressed with the question he dismissed the time before: a simple “Are you OK?” didn’t bring a response I could work with as it became clear that there was something wrong.

I pressed for truth and learned that he had a progressive degenerative nervous condition.

While he could, he wanted the kind of day with his son that would live in both their memories.

His dream could have become a nightmare had we persisted unknowingly.

“Let’s get you to a place where you can both enjoy the fishing,” I said, “There’s still time.”

He was humiliated, a little embarrassed, and nearly heartbroken. We found a different stretch of stream, water he could manage, and the day turned out better than it might have.

Plan and fish within your limits When planning a trip on your own, stay within your physical limits. There’s something good to be said for accepting challenges and testing your limits gradually; there’s nothing good be said for recklessly pressing beyond them.

Bitterroot River. Photo by Michael Howell

What’s the story,

Story?

By Jim Story Bitterroot Audubon Question: “No matter what time of year, I always see more male Redwing Blackbirds and Mallards than females. Do these birds have skewed sex ratios?”

Answer: The preponderance of observed males of both species is probably the result of behavioral differences between the sexes rather than a skewed sex ratio. Female redwings usually migrate earlier and farther than males. Also, redwings often segregate by sex in roosts and while foraging. During the breeding season, females are very secretive compared to the highly visible singing males.

For Mallards, the sex ratio during the winter is 1.3 males/female largely due to mammalian predation of females on nests. However, this is somewhat offset by higher mortality of males during hunting season. Males usually leave breeding areas for molting areas immediately after breeding, where they often form very large flocks. Females tend to be solitary or in small groups during the molting stage. Males are more likely to winter on large, open ponds and lakes, while females tend to winter on small ponds with heavy vegetative cover.

For all of these reasons, males of these two species tend to be more noticeable, but they don’t necessarily outnumber the females overall.

Summer Safety, Public Health cares about our community, Ravalli County Public Health wishes everyone to have a safe and fun summer.

Stop in to Skull get your Saver child a free helmet or call to see Program if you qualify for ainfree carfitted seatfor and installation.

Bring your child to get a free helmet!

205 Bedford Suite L . Hamilton

(406) 375-6672

Classified

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 16

Call

777-3928 Deadline Monday

12 noon for Wednesday

FOR SALE

SCREENED TOPSOIL $14.50 YARD, YOU CAN PICK UP (WE WILL LOAD YOU) OR WE CAN DELIVER (DELIVERY FEE WILL APPLY) 961-1511 .

6-2-21.

BUILDINGS

(must have exp with lowboy, side dump, pup, etc), Heavy Equipment Operator (must have exp with grader, dozer, excavator, etc), Laborer, Office Assistant, 406-9611511.

6-2-21.

“Yes!” enthusiastically then this may be the job for you.

Please visit the careers page on our website for complete details and how to apply.

6-2-21.

POSITION OPEN FOR NEWSPAPER DISTRIBUTION PREP PERSON. Wednesdays, approx. 6 hours, sometimes more. $10 per hour. Call Victoria, 777-3928.

K-8 CERTIFIED TEACHER MOUNTAIN VIEW ELEMENTARY. Send Resume to Mountain View Elementary, Box 1169, Cut Bank MT 59427. Email questions to JerryHofer73@gmail. com or call (406) 336-2638.

POSITION OPEN FOR NEWSPAPER DELIVERY DRIVER. Wednesday & Thursdays. Vehicle provided. $10 per hour. Call Victoria, 777-3928.

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

NORTH VALLEY PUBLIC LIBRARY in Stevensville is hiring a full-time Library Programmer. Do you love to learn, and then turn around and teach others what you learned? Are you outgoing and want to connect with people and help others make connections? Do you love young children and connect with adults of all ages? If you said,

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: 406273-4212 trillliumbrass@aol.com

52 Years of Service

Elaine’s Engraving

HELP WANTED

& Rubber Stamps

363-5193

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

SEVERAL POSITIONS AVAILABLE, CDL truck driver

$5,000 SIGN ON! WESTMORELAND MINING is seeking qualified electricians and diesel mechanics in Colstrip, MT. Apply at http://westmoreland.jobs.net.

HVAC/R Maintenance Technician. **Recent Wage Increase** Montana State University – Bozeman. For complete job announcement and application procedures, click on: https://jobs.montana. edu/hr/postings/23158. Equal

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

Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled

NOTICES VENDORS - Sign up for STEVENSVILLE WESTERN HERITAGE DAYS now! Saturday, June 26th, downtown Stevensville. Sign up at www. bitterrootstar.com

Crossword Solution

Hamilton Assembly of God Church June 14-18, 9:00 – 12:00

Sign up TODAY hamiltonag.org/ministries/kids/vbs-sign-up/ Some of our classes include: BB gun safety & shooting, Small engine & Go-Cart training, Black light dance, Crafts, Black light sign language, Wood Working, Funny skits, and Bible character acting.

For more information call Hamilton Assembly of God Church @ 406-363-2510

© Feature Exchange

Weiser

Vehicles Wanted

• Medicare Supplement or Advantage • Covers virtually everythinºg!

• Life Insurance

Fast - Safe Convenient Purchase

“Bud” Weiser 406-880-4432

Willow Creek Motors LLC

Insurance

Vacation Bible School

Buying nice late model cars, trucks and SUV’s

Call Ron 406-961-1616

The Bitterroot Star is your only LOCAL newspaper!

POLE BUILDING SPECIALIST

We are pleased to provide weekly copies to everyone for free but we can only do that with your continued support.

You can invest in the Bitterroot Star by: • Advertising • Subscribing Or, you can pick it up for free at 100+ locations throughout the valley.

For more information contact our office at 777-3928.

Thank you!

•bobcat work •small concrete work

•fencing •garages

•garage doors •carports •decks

JIM WERST • 406-381-7337 • HAMILTON

FIEL FIE LD MOWING

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

MARVIN AHLSTRAND

Fresh Copper River Salmon arriving!

Local is Best!

Try these local Montana Products!

• B Bar Brats • Farmer Boy Ground Beef • Local Fresh Asparagus

BITTERROOTFIELDMOWING.COM

406-529-6158

910 1st St., Hamilton

HOME FIX-UP HEADQUARTERS

406-363-1626

Looking for a new member of the family?

Bunny

Call 363-5311 or visit our website at

www.bitterroothumane.org

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

Come see all the wonderful animals waiting for someone special like you!

Bitter Root Humane Association would like to thank:

MOELLER’S NURSERY 946 Eastside Hwy • Corvallis • (406)961-3389

Celia Grohmann, Broker 406-550-1014 http://on93.com

Legals Wednesday, June 2, 2021

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of ALFRED M. CHAVEZ, JR. a/k/a ALFRED M CHAVEZ, Deceased.

Probate No.: DP-2021-55 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Co-Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must be mailed to Tamara Jessop and Tina Chavez, the CoPersonal Representatives, in care of MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana, 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct.

DATED this 14th day of May 2021.

Tamara Jessop Tina Chavez

MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C. BY: Megan S. Winderl, Attorney for Personal Representative BS 5/19, 5/26, 6/2 ________________________ MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In re the Marriage of: Aimee C. Owens, Petitioner and Matthew R. Owens, Sr., Respondent Case No: DR-21-63 Summons for Publication NOTICE TO: Respondent Matthew R. Owens, Sr. You are named in a petition to dissolve your marriage and to get a final parenting plan for your children. Unless you respond in 21 days, the court may decide against you without you being heard and give Petitioner everything asked for in the petition. You must submit your written response within 21 calendar days. The 21 day period starts the day after the last date of publication of this notice.

If the final day falls on a weekend or court holiday, you may file your response on the next business day.

You must file your written response with the Clerk of District Court at 205 Bedford Suite D, Hamilton, 59840 and serve a copy of your answer on the Petitioner.

The following real property is part of this case: Dated this 13th day of May, 2021.

PAIGE TRAUTWEIN Clerk of Court BS 19, 26, 6/2 ________________________ Public Notice Town of Stevensville NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of Stevensville is inviting qualified firms to submit qualifications to provide legal services for a three-year period commencing on July 12, 2021. Statements of qualifications are due to the Town Clerk no later than Thursday, June 17, 2021 at 5:00 p.m.

Information concerning this RFQ may be obtained on the Town’s website by visiting https://www. townofstevensville.com/rfps.

Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 5-26-2021, 6-2-2021, 6-9-2021 ________________________

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

Bitterroot Star -- Page 17

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

________________________ REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS FOR ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR CORVALLIS (MONTANA) WASTEWATER TREATMENT FACILITY IMPROVEMENTS The Corvallis County Sewer District is seeking a Statement of Qualifications from a professional firm for wastewater treatment systems consulting, engineering, design, and study services for potential upgrade and/or system expansion projects at the District’s wastewater processing facility.

For a Request for Qualifications Package which includes the Scope of Services; Submission Requirements; Selection Process; RFQ Schedule and Deadline for Submission of Qualifications, or if you have any questions, please contact Lyndi Henson, District Administrative Assistant at ljhenson1960@gmail. com or by calling 406-961-4136.

Deadline for RFQ submission is June 21, 2021.

BS 6/2, 6/9

Judge temporarily halts campus carry bill

by Mara Silvers Montana Free Press A district court judge on Friday temporarily enjoined the enforcement date of House Bill 102, the bill that would expand permissions for concealed carry firearms on campus starting June 1.

The order by Judge Mike McMahon in Lewis and Clark County came in response to a suit filed by the Montana University System Board of Regents, which voted unanimously last week to challenge the new law in court.

In his ruling, McMahon wrote that the board would “suffer immediate

and irreparable injury” if the law was allowed to go into effect before the case could proceed. The order applies only to the June 1 effective date and other portions of the bill pertaining to the Montana University System (MUS). Other sections of the bill that allow concealed carry in other public settings took effect when Gov. Greg Gianforte signed HB 102 in February.

In its motion seeking declaratory and injunctive relief this week, attorneys representing the Board of Regents argued that the board retains constitutional authority “to supervise, coordinate, manage and control the presence and use of

firearms on MUS campuses,” and that through HB 102 the Legislature wrongly sought to intervene in the university system.

Attorneys also said that 40,000 students could be confused about whether to comply with HB 102 or with existing policies restricting firearms on campus if the bill were to go into effect while litigation is ongoing. The filing noted that university students, parents and other stakeholders have shared “grave concern” in public comments about maintaining campus safety, student and faculty retention and suicide prevention efforts under HB 102.

NOW HIRING!

ALL POSITIONS IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY!

Requests for comment on the court’s ruling sent to the offices of Gianforte and Attorney General Knudsen were not immediately returned.

In a statement issued Friday, HB 102 sponsor Rep. Seth Berglee, R-Joliet, criticized the board’s decision to file a lawsuit over the measure after he said lawmakers had worked with university officials to address concerns while revising the bill.

“A large majority of our representative branch and the executive branch both approved very measured legislation that would afford adults attending our

colleges the same rights they have off campus,” Berglee said. “Suing at the last minute and using the courts to deny our citizens their rights will make our college campuses less safe for students, faculty, and visitors.”

The Legislature had also included $1 million to help the Office of the Commissioner of Higher Education implement the bill under the condition that the university system not pursue a lawsuit, funding that Berglee previously told Montana Free Press is now “off the table.”

Per McMahon’s ruling, the parties involved in the case are now scheduled to appear before the court on Monday, June 7, at 9:00 a.m.

BUrnt Fork Vet Spring updates CONSTRUCTION COMING SOON

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

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

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

LARGE ANIMAL SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION HELP URGENTLY NEEDED! ALL SKILL LEVELS ENCOURAGED TO APPLY!

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

If you feel a job in construction might be a perfect fit for you, contact A2Z Personnel and find out what jobs are available.

Even if you don’t have any construction experience, but have always wanted to learn the trade, now might be the perfect opportunity for you to get started!

Call or stop by either our Hamilton or Stevensville offices to get started.

a2zpersonnel.net

Hamilton: 406-363-0723 • 186 S 3rd St. Stevensville: 406-777-1662 • 215 Main St.

New Community Housing in Stevensville!

NEW TO THE AREA? We are still accepting NEW patients and NEW clients! Be prepared for emergencies and call NOW to establish care! 406.777.3844 3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com

BuRNt FORk PLAcE u BOX BIRD LANE

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

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

N Accepow A ppli ting c atio ns

Income limits and restrictions do apply.

INC

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

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

Wednesday, June 2, 2021

Bitterroot Star -- Page 18

Delivery Service Monday-Friday 777-4663

Sale good thru 06/08/21

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

Spring Ice Cream Sale at Burnt Fork Market!

Berry Headquarters

At the Fork we are loaded with what it takes to make a ice cream delight from fresh berries to ice cream toppings & cones. Also check out the Root’s best selection of rosé wine and local brews!

Also call ahead for large orders of fried chicken and we will have it ready for you! Shop the Fork & save time, money & taste local!

Sign up to win a Eric Church Concert Tickets!

Tillamook Ice Cream

Fresh Snow & Snap Peas

Montana Oysters Mushrooms

Montana Fresh Large Eggs

2 7 2 $5 $299 99¢ $

paks

for 48 oz.

Assorted

Black Angus Choice London Broil

3

$ 99 lb.

Grill Me! Slicing Tomatoes

1

4 oz.

Bar S Jumbo Franks

99

¢

16 oz.

Taste Local!

Fresh Blueberries

2 5 $

6 oz.

Sweet Peaches

Dailys Valu Pak. Thick Cut Bacon

Salad Time!

Ice Cream Friendly!

Black Angus Choice Sirloin Tip Steak

Black Angus Choice 2’ Thick Cut Steaks

Yellow & Red Bell Peppers

4

$ 99 Grill’em

lb.

Red & Green Seedless Grapes

2

$

9

1

$ 99 lb.

Yoplait Yogurt

1

3

Save!

Kiwi Fruit

Slicing Cucumbers

8.9-12 oz

1 lb.

Green Cabbage

2 1 2 1 79 $

for

$

¢

Save!

Salad Time

Stuff ’em

Black Angus Choice Chuck Steak

Hershey’s Strawberry Syrup

Charmin Tissue

5

$ 99 lb.

Great Flavor!

1

Darigold Butter

& Honey Nut

1

$ 99

22 oz.

First 2

6

lb.

$ 99 Save!

6 pak. mega rolls

$ 99 lb.

Food Club Ice Cream Cups

General Mill Cheerios

Great Snack

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs

2

88

24 ct.

2 1 $

Save!

¢

12 ct.

Bakery Fresh Choc Chip Cookies

2

$ 99

for 4-6 oz

Boars Head Smoked Turkey Breast

7

$ 99

20 ct.

lb.

Local Bedding Plants, Tomato Plants, Hanging Baskets!

Plant Local!

In Our Deli

Romaine Lettuce

99

Bone-In All Natural Pork Chops

2

¢

Save!

Helados Ice Pops

Kid Friendly!

$ 99

lb.

Delicious

Valu Pak.

Save!

$

lb.

¢

Taste Local

2 3 for

$ 98

for

99

Grill’em

lb.

$ 99 lb.

13

$

$ 99

$ 99

99

lb.

Green Onions & Radishes

4 3

lb.

2

5

$ 99

On The Vine Tomatoes

$ 99 Valu Pak.

Farmer Boy 85% Local Ground Beef

Taste Local!

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Ice Cream Friendly!

for

lb.

Taste Local!

Kid Fun!

BLT Time!

$ 49

2

$ 29

dozen

aste Local!

Taste

6-8 oz.

Montana Roasting Chickens!

$ 99

bunch

Fresh Strawberries

Seedless Watermelon

49

lb.

Grill’em

2 5

¢

for

lb.

$

Save!

Ice Cream Friendly

Haagen-Daz Ice Cream

Blue Bunny Ice Cream

2 6 Assorted

4

Jet Puff Marshmallows

Crav’n Graham Crackers

$

$ 88

14 oz.

1

gallon pail

Assorted

1

$ 99

$ 99

14.4 oz.

16 oz.

Assorted

Delicious

S’more Time!

S’more Time!

Fresh Express Garden Salad

Clamato & Picante Clamato

Food Club Beans

Rosarita Refried Beans

for 9-11 oz.

for 32 oz.

2 5 2 5 88 $

$

Save!

Save!

Donald Duck Orange Juice

2 $5

Assorted

Aidells All Natural Sausage

5

$ 99

for 59 oz.

Assorted

Assorted

12 oz.

88

¢

14.5 oz.

¢

15 oz.

Assorted

Stinky Munster Cheese

Bee Hive Hatch Chili Cheese

2

5

$ 99

$ 99

lb.

Save!

Delicious

lb.

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

Local Bounti Lettuce

3

$ 49 Save!

4.5 oz.

Kim Crawford Sauv Blanc

$

12

99

750 ml.

New Zealand

LaCroix Sparkling Water

3

$ 99

12 pak.

Assorted

Franz Hamburger Buns

1

$ 99 Save!

Local Hutterite Radishes

69

¢

8 pak.

Save!

bunch

Food Club Vegetables

88 Save!

Top Care Aspirin

¢

14-15 oz can

3

$ 99

500 ct.

Save!

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

Casa Santo, Lisonita Topo, Bons Ventos

7

$ 99

750 ml.

Portugal

Sierra Nevada Torpedo IPA

7

$ 99

6 pak.

Save!

Frito Lay Fritos & Cheetos

2 5 $

bags 6.5-10 oz

Assorted

10 Barrel, Lagunitas & Hop Valley

7

$ 99

6 pak.

Assorted

Budweiser & Bud Light

15

$

Save!

99

18 pak.

Gnarley Head Wines

7

$ 99

750 ml.

Assorted

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

Deschute Brews

7

$ 99

6 pak.

Assorted Variety/Bend, OR