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
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B ‘The
Volume XXXV, Number 49
www.bitterrootstar.com
By Michael Howell
Kyle Schurman shows his 4H pig at last year’s fair. Jean Schurman photo.
County Fair going forward
The Ravalli County Fair is waiting for entries for the 2020 fair. The 2020 Exhibitors Handbook was released a couple of weeks ago. With this, potential exhibitors have the guidelines and deadlines for the many entries that make up the Ravalli County Fair experience. The deadlines are in early August so there’s still time to perfect that apple pie or finish that painting. But for 4H and FFA members, they have been working on their projects since the first of the year, if not before. In a normal year, the release of the exhibitors’ handbook wouldn’t be a big deal at all, but this year it is. It is a signal that the Ravalli County Fair Commission, the management, and the county commissioners are trying to make this as normal a year as possible with the plans for the Ravalli County Fair moving forward. Fair manager, Melissa Saville, has been in touch with many of the other fair managers throughout Montana and says she is learning new ideas from these other managers on ways to
handle social distancing and keep people safe while having a fair. With no way of knowing what phase Montana may be in during the first week of September, a flexible strategy is important. The Fair Commission is committed to moving forward with this year’s fair and is working hard to make sure the many events of fair will go on. Saville has talked with North Star Amusements, the owners of the carnival that comes to the fair, and they are on board to be here. North Star sent a list of measures they will be implementing to help prevent and mitigate COVID-19. Among these are more hand washing stations, hand sanitizer, paper towels and tissues. Face masks will be available in their office. The ride attendants will be provided sanitizing spray to disinfect key customer touch points and seats after each ride. They also said they could increase the space between rides to follow social distancing guidelines. Another avenue North Star is pursuing is a new ticketing system that is touch-less. It would be similar to an app on a phone and move away from the wristbands. A daily employee health log will be
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Trout Unlimited submits 310 violation complaints
Entries welcome!
By Jean Schurman
Find the latest updates and information on the COVID-19 pandemic at www.bitterrootstar.com
maintained as well. The 4H program, which is under the directives of the Montana State Extension Office, is making plans to go forward as usual. However, in the event the state does not move into Phase 3, there will be plans in place to allow exhibitors to show their projects. The Livestock Market Sale will take place but it may end up being a virtual sale rather than a live sale. The Rockin’ RC Rodeo, Bull-A-Rama, and Ranch Rodeo are also going to be happening at this point. The grandstands may have to have some of the seating blocked off due to social distancing. The Fair Commission will make that decision as it gets closer to the September 2 start date of the Fair. Saville stressed that there will be sanitation stations at all of the barns, both livestock and the other buildings. She also said her maintenance crew would be doing everything thing they could to clean throughout the fairgrounds. For more information regarding the Ravalli County Fair, go to https://ravalli.us/200/ Fairgrounds or call 363-3411.
The Bitterroot Chapter of Montana Trout Unlimited has filed complaints with both the Montana Board of Outfitters and the Bitterroot Conservation District against a local fishing guide for violating 310 law on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River near Rombo Creek. The alleged violation took place on June 7, 2020 around noon. TU members have been participating in the Woody Debris Management Task Force that was organized this winter by the Bitterroot Conservation District and Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks to address the chronic problem of illegal wood cutting on the river and take some proactive measures to reduce the illegal activity. One of the proactive measures was to initiate a spring float in which experts from various agencies float the river and identify potential hazards early in the season and make plans for addressing them. The potential hazards are evaluated and the best way to manage them is decided
upon. Woody debris is a critical element in making for good fish habitat, especially critical for endangered species like the Bull trout and species of concern like the Westslope cutthroat trout. Sometimes it’s best to leave the woody debris in place and let the boaters portage around. In other cases, some strategic actions could be taken to allow for floating while mitigating any serious damage to the habitat. The task force is also working on protocols for responding to reported hazards in a timely manner. Following the 310 Permitting rules can be a slow process at times since the Board of Supervisors must meet to make any decision about the permit. The task force is working on a protocol that could greatly speed up the response to hazards, but it may take some rule changes to implement it. A couple of weeks ago, the task force got a chance to respond to a reported hazard on the West Fork of the river in which a tree had blocked the entire river. Report of the hazard came in on a Friday and a team was assembled
to assess the situation the next Monday. If action was advisable the task force had the chance to make recommendations to the board on Tuesday evening and potentially get the issue resolved on Wednesday. But that didn’t happen. When the group arrived on the scene on Monday it was discovered that someone had already cut the log jam out. Usually this would put an end to things since it is not often that this kind of activity is observed. But not this time. According to Bitterroot TU president Jeremy Anderson, illegal wood cutting on the West Fork has been so extensive over the last several years that the group decided to keep a watch on this log as the task force moved through its procedural response. A camera was set up on private property with the landowner’s permission near the log jam to record activity on the river in the vicinity of the log. Anderson said that the camera showed a person cutting out the log on Sunday about noon See 310 VIOLATIONS, page 3
Neighbors object to proposed Stevi housing complex By Michael Howell
A proposed low to middle income housing complex in Stevensville drew several complaints from neighboring property owners at a public hearing on the project last week. The 16-unit multi-family project called Burnt Fork Place Apartments is being developed by the Montana Housing Authority as a low income tax credit project. The proposed project is located near the Eastside Ace hardware store on the Eastside highway on the north side of town near the Winslett subdivision. In 2003, the previous owner of the property proposed a development called Nicole Court. That proposal
was not implemented and in 2005 the Montana Housing Authority purchased the property and planning for a new development was begun. Jim Morton, Executive Director of the Human Resource Council, said that the housing authority is involved in developing low to middle income housing projects across the state and owns about 100 units in the Bitterroot Valley. He said the development under consideration was more of a middle income project. He said the units being proposed were not subsidized units. He said a couple with a combined income of $34,000 would pay $964 a month to rent a unit.
“We do have projects for low income people,” he said, “but in this case it is for middle income. The project proposes building 16 units in two duplexes and three triplexes on the three-acre parcel of land. Mayor Brandon Dewey noted that the public hearing was being held to gather public comment on the community’s housing needs, including public facilities, economic development and housing and the need for low income people to be served by the proposed development. He said it was not a question and answer
See HOUSING, page 3
Foundation supports the arts, recreation Darby football coach suspended and sports for Stevensville youth By Michael Howell Darby football coach Jeff Snavely has been suspended while comments he made on social media are being investigated. The Missoulian and 406 MT SPORTS reported last week that Snavely posted a remark on social media in response to another person’s post about law enforcement that appeared to suggest Black Lives Matter protesters in Salt Lake City should be lynched. The post, which has since been deleted, is reported to have said “they should all be strung up and hang in public like the old days. Lot less of that sh*t would go on.” Snavely told the Missoulian and 406 MT SPORTS last Thursday that, “It was not a racial comment at all. The only thing I want to say is that I apologize to the Darby community and Darby school. The post was
not about Black Lives Matter. It wasn’t. It was a video of people rioting and that kind of stuff. It has nothing to do with, in my opinion, Black Lives Matter. It was just people being unlawful and everything else.” He is also quoted as saying, “It was not intended to be a racial comment. I am not a racist.” Snavely has worked seasonally for the Darby School District as the Darby football coach and recently signed a contract for the 2020 season. According to high school principal JP McCrossin, Snavely has been suspended while the board considers what action it may take. The board will consider the issue at a meeting scheduled for Thursday evening at 6 p.m. The meeting will be broadcast on Zoom and may be accessed by going to the school’s website at www.darby. k12.mt.us
By Michael Howell
There’s a relatively new charity organization at work in Stevensville called the Stevi STARS Foundation. The new foundation is committed to supporting the developing talents of Stevensville youth through the arts and athletic programs. “Our goal is to provide a safe and inspiring environment for the future adults of our community,” said Heidi Yaskus, one of the organizations’s founders. She said the effort leading to the establishment of the fund really goes back to the last school bond that was passed. “It really didn’t have any money in it for the arts or for athletics and a lot of parents felt that a lot was lacking,” said Yaskus. She said at that point a group of parents decided to start fund raising to support the arts, recreation and sports at the school. There were some obvious things that were really needed at the time, like new bleachers at the foot-
ball field and deteriorating tennis courts. The effort congealed into an official non-profit organization
and the Stevi STARS Foundation was born. The acronym stands for Supporting The Arts, Recreation
& Sports.
See STARS, page 3
STARS Foundation had a very successful yard sale last week, despite having to implement social distancing measures. Photo courtesy of Heidi Yaskus.
Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
We Are Open for Business Banks are lending money. Buyers are looking. Homes are selling quickly.
Good to Know.™ The Real Estate Market remains strong. Buyers are active. Real Estate has been, and still is an essential business in Montana. Now is a great time to sell your home! Take advantage of today’s hot market. Call today and find out what your home is worth with a FREE market analysis.
BHHSMT.com/Hamilton 120 South 5th St. Ste.201 406-375-0166
@BHHSHamilton © “insert year” BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently owned and operated franchisee of BHH Affiliates, LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of Columbia Insurance Company, a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate. Equal Housing Opportunity.
310 violations Housing continued
continued
the day before the task force was going to make its assessment. Based on an examination of the photos, TU believes that it has identified the perpetrator. The complaints submitted to the Montana Board of Outfitters and the Bitterroot Conservation District name local fishing guide Tucker Lehar as the alleged perpetrator. The BCD will consider the complaint at its next meeting on Tuesday, June 30. BTU president Jeremy Anderson said it is a pretty clearcut violation in his opinion given the photographic evidence. “How many 310 violations are we willing to continue to accept before we do something to protect the critical habitat that these native species rely on,” mused Anderson. “Our answer, and the responsible one, is none.”
situation, it was only for public comment on the proposal. He said the meeting was not to approve or disapprove the proposal. He said the proposal met the town’s codes and zoning regulations. He said under the current regulations the R-2 zoning would allow 16 units per acre to be built on the property. The proposal is to only build a total of 16 units on the whole three acres. Bob Robinson, staff architect for the Human Resource Council, said that the latest site plan had been altered to mitigate the issues related to high ground water in the area. Buildings had been pulled back from high water areas on the property, he said, and crawl spaces were being built up and a shallow catch basin was planned to keep rainwater on the property. Plans are to break ground in mid-July and construction is expected to last through June of 2021. No variance is being sought as the plans meet all codes and
Relief available for Stevensville area businesses The Stevensville Business Relief Fund administered through Project 59870 is continuing to collect and distribute funds to businesses in the 59870 zip code that are struggling due to COVID19 closures and restrictions. So far, 11 businesses have received funding totaling $10,500. Forty businesses and individuals have contributed to the relief fund. Businesses that need help can access the application on the Town of Stevensville’s website, townofstevensville.com. Anyone needing more information can contact Victoria at 207-8793.
STARS continued
Right now the foundation’s goals include construction of a new football field, a new track, rehabilitation of the tennis courts, and a concession stand with restrooms at the athletic field. “We want the place to be comfortable and usable by parents and grandparents so they will come and watch,” said Yaskus. The foundation has been able to raise some funds by sponsoring the Stevi Jackets Blackout Run and hosting a recent Yard Sale. Yaskus said they were also thinking of a chili feed and pos-
Wednesday, June 24, 2020 requirements. He said over two feet of fill would be brought in so that the ground could be built up so that no ground water would be displaced by the development. About a dozen local residents disagreed with that assessment. Each one spoke mainly about the high groundwater in the area, some calling it a swamp. They recounted past experiences with other developments in the area that they claimed created high water problems for them on their property. John Kellogg of Professional Consultants Incorporated said that the Human Resource Council was working closely with DEQ and DNRC to address the groundwater situation. He said the actions being taken will avoid displacing the existing groundwater on the property and it will also capture rainwater on the property so that it doesn’t run off onto neighboring lands. Bill Perrin said that he served on the council when the project first came before the town and testified in its favor at a meeting in Helena.
Governor announces new loan deferment program for businesses Bullock also announces additional support to increase state census count
Governor Steve Bullock has announced the creation of a loan deferment program to assist Montana businesses impacted by COVID-19. The Montana Loan Deferment Program will allow businesses and other entities to defer payments on existing loans for six to 12 months and free up a significant amount of otherwise dedicated capital for the borrower to leverage on a monthly basis. If a borrower is approved for the program, Coronavirus relief funds will be used to provide payments to participating lenders to cover interest payments for six-to-twelve months, up to 6 percent or $150, 000. sibly a Bingo Night. She said they “Through the Coronavirus were also looking for grants. Relief Fund, we’ve been able to Yaskus said the board is consider and begin meeting the fairly small and consists mostly needs across all sectors of the of parents with children in school economy and in all corners of the at Stevensville. She said a few state,” Governor Bullock said. teachers are also involved and the “The funds we’ve distributed have group gets informal advice from gotten Montanans back to work, Stevensville School Superintenstabilized businesses, provided dent Dr. Bob Moore. She said he a safety net for individuals, and was very supportive. jumpstarted industries while According to Yaskus, having considering what support should healthy, active, and creative be available to ensure long term students at the school benefits the sustainability.” entire community and donations to Governor Bullock is directthe foundation are tax deductible. ing $125 million to the program Donations can be sent to Stevi with $25 million specifically STARS, P.O. Box 556, Stevensdedicated to hotels and restaurants ville MT 59870. and the remaining $100 million dedicated to other eligible borrowers. The amount currently dedicated to this program could help defer between 5,000 and 10,000 loans and free up capital to bring
Beijing Bob’s
! S K R O W E R I F Buy $10 worth, get $5 FREE
Buy $20 worth, get $10 FREE
Buy $50 worth, get $25
Bitterroot Star -- Page 3
Get local!
For information about advertising in your local paper, call the Bitterroot Star at 777-3928!
stability for businesses and other entities in the long term. “This program will provide a much needed lifeline to many Montana small businesses to help them recover from the impact of COVID-19 and allow them to get stronger for the future,” said Randy Chesler, CEO of Glacier Bancorp. “This program will not only provide much needed relief to Montana businesses, it will do so in a way that allows the state’s banks to mitigate risks in the marketplace. Montana’s community banks have stepped up in a big way and will continue to do so through this program in order to help the people of Montana get through this crisis,” said Andy West, President of Eagle Bank in Polson. To be eligible, borrowers must have experienced a 25 percent reduction in gross revenue due to COVID-19. The borrower must also not have access to 12 months of working capital from any other source and be actively registered with the Secretary of State to do business in Montana. The full eligibility criteria are available at COVIDRELIEF. MT.GOV. The program will be jointly administered by the Board of Investments and the Department of Revenue. Borrowers will apply through their existing lender, which will submit the application to the Board of Investments and Revenue for review and payment if approved. Recipients will be listed on the transparency website that is updated weekly. For businesses seeking access to new capital, the state is currently developing a program that will assist those with needs for new capital. Governor Bullock also announced he is allocating $530,000 to the Department of Commerce to promote the Census through October 31, the new deadline for completing the decennial count. “We know an accurate and complete count of all Montanans is critical for determining the federal funding distributed to the state for education, highways, health care and over 300 other programs,” Governor Bullock said. “This funding will support the state over the long term and ensure we do everything we can to get a complete count and our fair share of federal funding over the next decade.”
While the federal government is tasked with counting all households every 10 years, the state supports the effort to educate and promote the importance of the Census. The U.S. Census Bureau suspended all field operations from March to early May to slow the spread of COVID-19, which put Montana’s response rate below the national average. An accurate and complete count of all Montanans is critical for determining the federal funding distributed to the state, it shapes local voting districts, and it determines whether Montana will receive a second seat in the U.S. House of Representatives. The following programs have been created in under two months using funding through $1.25 billion in federal emergency relief funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act: • Montana Meat Processing Infrastructure Grant, Montana Department of Agriculture • Montana Business Adaptation Program, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation • Montana Business Stabilization Program, Montana Department of Commerce • Montana Innovation Grant Program, Governor’s Office of Economic Development • Montana Food and Agriculture Adaptability Program, Montana Department of Agriculture • Local Government Reimbursement Program • Emergency Housing Assistance Program, Montana Department of Commerce • Public Health Grants, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, • Stay Connected Grants, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services • Food Bank and Food Pantry Assistance, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services • Social Services Nonprofit Grants, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services • Telework Assistance Grants, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services More than $30 million has gone to Montanans and Montana businesses impacted by COVID19. To find the transparency webpage and learn more about where the funds are going, go to COVIDRELIEF.MT.GOV.
Open 10 - ? through July 2nd Open 8 am - ? July 3rd & July 4th
Stevensville next to Burnt Fork Market Hamilton in front of Black Rabbit RV Park Just across the bridge Business & Estate Planning & Elder Law Services
JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682 115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com
Ready to help.
Tractor & Attachments, Truck, Trailers, MoCo Mower, Baler, Seeder, ATV’s, Raft, Paddleboards, Kayaks, Life Jackets, Collectables, Household, Sporting Goods Store Liquidation to include: Ammo, Firearms, Fishing Rods & Tackle, Tents, Sleeping Bags, Camping Supplies, Floaties, Stuffed Animals, Shirts, Sunglasses and so much more . . . Go to www.kevinhillauctions.com for auction details and directions. HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE.
Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star
Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell
Opinion
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Guest Comment
A Father’s Day letter of significance By Mary Fahnestock-Thomas, Hamilton
Dear Dad, It’s over 31 years since I was able to wish you a Happy Father’s Day! in person, or even by mail or phone. I think you would approve of my doing it this way now. You were a kind man, thoughtful, conscious, and responsible, determined to be fair in all contexts, and you (nearly) always took serious things seriously. What would you say today to Juneteenth, the day I am writing to you? Even with your advanced education and degrees, you didn’t know about it. Even with my advanced education and degrees, I didn’t either until just a few years ago. June 19, 1865, was when the last slaves, in Galveston, Texas, found out about the Emancipation Proclamation -- found out they had been freed -- two and a half years after it had happened. News traveled slowly in those days. It doesn’t anymore; in fact, today there’s so much “news” going around that we have to be conscientious about deciding what is real and what is not. You would be distressed at how much is motivated by selfinterest, by a fixation on money and power. Since the purposeful death of George Floyd, a black man, at the hands of a white police officer in Minneapolis on Memorial Day, more and more of us are reading and listening and learning as much as we can
about this racism that theoretically ended 155 years ago and that has affected Native Americans and other people of color for centuries as well. Remember after World War II, when the USA was giving generously through the Marshall Plan to the countries (on both sides) that needed to rebuild, and the GI Bill made it possible for so many returning GI’s to finish their education and buy a home for their young families? Did you know that that really applied almost exclusively to white people? That colleges and realtors and city governments -- government at all levels, in fact -- were very conscious of skewing almost everything to us whites? Surely out of self-interest -- afraid that Others would treat us the way we had long treated them? You couldn’t have, but that continues to be a major reason for the continuing affluence of whites like us and the continuing lack of opportunity for others. Well, now we know, and now we can work to even the playing field, like you believed in doing, so that our country finally begins to fulfill its promise of democracy, where not just all men are “created equal” by the God we pretend to worship, but all human beings, regardless. Pray for us. I hope that by Juneteenth 2021, it will be celebrated as our second Independence Day.
Letters
Thank you
Thank you for passing the recent mill levy for the Bitterroot Public Library. We are pleased that you value this institution enough to provide additional funding. We know these are difficult times for our world and our community. Because of your support, we can continue to provide quality library services to community residents from all walks of life and all stages of life. We appreciate your patience as we phase in library operations to ensure safety for both patrons and staff. Much has changed over the last 100 years, but our dedication to this community, whether it’s shopping locally, providing early childhood literacy programs, or offering modern technology, will never wane. Thank you again for your support. The Bitterroot Public Library Board of Trustees: Warren Neyenhuis, Brittany McKenzie, Robert Ratcheson, Jennifer De Groot, Paul Stone
We deserve better
For anyone not keeping up with local Town business, now appears to be the perfect time to grab your popcorn and start paying attention. Our last council meeting was quite the spectacle - not only did many of our citizens prove they can’t sit quietly to politely listen while others are speaking (one individual in the audience was actually asked to leave the meeting following her outburst), but our own Council President, Bob Michalson, displayed a complete lack of professionalism, laughing at a fellow councilperson during the meeting and, at one point, walking out of the meeting. There is no excuse for this kind of behavior, though it shouldn’t be surprising to anyone following Bob’s well-documented tenure on the council.
Remember the email scandal? The February 26, 2018 Bitterroot Star detailed the email exchange between Council members Robin Holcomb and Bob Michalson, in which Bob stated, “Unless you talk to the press (Brian’s response) not much we could do, unless we went to the press and slandered Brandon. Since we are elected officials, not much we can say in an official meeting. We will just keep making his life miserable… Back to the Ludington era. haha.” Openly admitting to not only targeting our current mayor, but also admitting to making a concerted effort to drive out a former Mayor? Wow. Fast forward to last year’s rollercoaster ride of resignations leading up to the November election. On July 16, 2019, Bob Michalson and Jim Crews submitted letters of resignation. In a July 17, 2019 Bitterroot Star article, Bob explained his resignation: “I can no longer sit idle and watch the Criminal Activity being carried on within the Town Hall of Stevensville, Mt.” Despite his resignation, however, Bob never withdrew his application for re-election. When questioned on social media, Bob’s responses included: “It’s to keep curious mindless people like you guessing? It’s my decision no one else’s. Maybe you should worry about your own damn business instead of wasting your valuable time on mine which you know nothing about” and “Thought I’d just take a few months off!” Bob ultimately won this election by the narrowest of margins, beating write-in candidate, Patrick Shourd, by only 8 votes. Bob’s distain for non-Town residents participating in Town politics is palpable. In a July 29, 2019 social media post, he stated: “People outside of city limits have no business telling people who pay city taxes what to do. Go cry to
Bitterroot Star
Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com
Chilcot. I live in town, you don’t. What gives you the right to tell people in city limits how to run its affairs? I don’t tell you how to run your property I made Dewey’s life miserable many times because of his lack of oversight.” Bob’s behavior is unbecoming of a member of the council, especially COUNCIL PRESIDENT! Bob needs to get his priorities straight and focus on gaining back the trust of the hardworking folks in our community. Christopher Sheridan Stevensville
cut off when the 251 goal was reached. You have no basis for this statement. “Elect mayors with proven leadership and integrity.” You have no proven leadership qualities. I believe you worked as a clerk before running for mayor. “Your choice and vote will be reversed, and your voice silenced.” FALSE. Any community member can come forward and throw their name in the hat to be the next mayor for a few months. ANYONE residing within the town limits. “Misinformed detractors will claim that we have a “weak mayor” form of government.” It is what we have. You only have powers and duties assigned by the legislature. Nothing more. This is a weak mayor form of government in Stevensville. I understand that term bothers you but it is what it is. “250 signatures seeking my recall is not something to resign over. In fact, I won the election with 272 voters choosing other candidates.” Well, sure. Numbers can be manipulated anyway you want. The recall election is a simple majority and no matter how you play with the numbers you won the election with only 45% of the vote. Only 221 people voted for you. In spite of your protestations, Mr. Mayor, you failed the citizens. In particular you failed to let any member of the town participate in your decision to sign a contract of this amount. Did you fear that the populace would object? Whatever your reason, you failed the citizens. All your deflections and pleading will not change what you did. How could we ever trust you again with our hard-earned funds and hope the tax dollars you take from us will be wisely spent? Leanna Rodabaugh Stevensville
Let’s talk reality
“A handful of activists with a dangerous agenda to divide our community”? Pray tell, Mr. Mayor, what is the “dangerous agenda”? “Those who demonize Stevensville’s people and attack Stevensville’s values.” Really? Name these people. They are citizens of this town and you libel them. “We face distractions designed to precipitate controversy.” WHAT? You signed an illegal contract and YOU are trying to distract from YOUR illegal activities. “Allegations asserted in Leanna Rodabaugh’s petition are false. Instead, facts released by the Town and verified by the City Attorney prove that I did nothing illegal.” First of all, Mr. Mayor, the town attorney is unable to prove anything. He presents biased OPINION with NO facts to support it. The town did NOT release “facts,” you did. “All allegations were disproven.” Huh? Nothing was “disproven.” Once again, a biased opinion. “The majority of our community does not support a recall.” Sadly, you have few supporters. We could have easily produced 100 additional signatures but were
Bransby Law Firm P.C.
Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta TheBitterroot Bitterroot Star Star isispublished published weekly weekly at 115 W. 3rd, Street, Suite 108, The at 115 W. 3rd Suite 108, Stevensville,Montana. Montana.Subscriptions Subscriptions are are$40 $50 per per year year in in Ravalli RavalliCounty, Stevensville, County, $60 per out of and county, per year out of state. $50 per year out year of county, $60and out $70 of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.
Member Montana Montana Newspaper Association Member Association Member Bitterroot Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce Member Commerce Member Stevensville Hamilton Downtown Association Member Main Street Association Member Downtown Association Member Hamilton Stevensville Civic Club
Has a loved one passed away recently? We Can Help FREE CONSULTATION
777-1000
Kenneth Bransby www.bransbylaw.com
515 Main Street, Stevensville, MT
Free Consultation on 1 line as it was in the previous draft.
* Correct font to match #3 * Center website between
Re: local government corruption
As a small business owner in Stevensville, I write to express my concern over the issue of corruption in our local government. We have seen the privilege of being an elected official to manage the affairs of this community being misused, abused and destroyed. Events over the last several years combined with current activities demonstrate that Council members Bob Michalson and Robin Holcomb have forgotten why we elected them. We are being neglected and our community is being torn apart because they hate our Mayor and believe they are above the laws. It is frustrating to watch these Council members attack our Mayor, our staff and our citizens with nothing being done to alleviate their hatred and abuse. I want to see our community flourish and not diminish. I want to see our disagreements handled with professionalism and cooperation. We must open our eyes and stop being fooled by the rhetoric of our current councilors. Term limits may help. Complacency and silent tolerance does not. Citizens, we must unite and demand that our Councilors start performing the jobs they were elected to carry out and not their personal and corrupt agendas. Stevensville deserves better than this! Amy Berglund, DC, DACBSP Stevensville
The lie of systemic racism
As J.K. Rowling said, it isn’t hate to speak the truth. Here are some historical facts to disprove the lies of current “systemic racism” and “white privilege.” The civil rights legislation of the 1960s made racial discrimination illegal and thus dismantled the only “white supremacy” that remained in the country – the Democratic Party-controlled South. In the late 1960s and 1970s, the federal government changed national policy from one of equal rights for all to one of racial preferences for blacks and other minorities to compensate for past discrimination. Called “affirmative action,” this legal policy includes racial preferences in hiring, promotions, contracting, and university admissions. Ever since the 1970s, we have lived in a country where governments, businesses, and universities have legally given preferences to non-whites over whites on the sole basis of race. Since the 1960s, there has also been billions of dollars spent on “War on Poverty” and other programs to lift blacks out of poverty. These programs, when combined with “affirmative action,” amount to “reparations” for slavery worth trillions of dollars. In the 1980s, “affirmative action” was supplemented by “diversity” as a legal justification for giving preferences to non-whites over whites. For diversophiles, the change had the advantage of privileging the millions of new non-white immigrants who had never experienced any discrimination in this country. The “diversity” cult has resulted in a color-conscious, two-class society of privileged non-whites and non-privileged whites. While black pride is encouraged and promoted, white pride is forbidden and persecuted. Only “white guilt,” “implicit bias” training, and the bending of the knee are allowed for second-class white citizens. Everybody has to affirm that “black lives matter” but to say that “all lives matter” is considered racist. And only “white silence equals violence.” In practice, “diversity” simply means less white people. Under the slogans “celebrate diversity” and “diversity is a strength,” governments, businesses, and universities have been discriminating against whites in hiring, promotions, contracting, and admissions for four decades. Now it is called “diversity, equity, and inclusion.” The economic and emotional costs of this legal discrimination, plus the economic devastation to American manufacturing resulting from globalization, have increased
the levels of depression and anxiety among whites and are contributing causes of the “deaths of despair” – drug overdose, alcoholism, and suicide – that have disproportionately affected the white population in this century. In the last decade, life expectancy has dropped and mortality rates have risen for whites, while blacks and Hispanics have enjoyed longer life spans and lower mortality rates. If there is any “systemic” or “institutional” racism in this country, it’s a legal discrimination against whites – officially sanctioned as “affirmative action” and “diversity.” And the lie of “white privilege” is an academic invention of the grievance studies departments to prop up the “diversity” cult and another lie called “white supremacy.” The idea that “white supremacy” exists today is laughable. We just had eight years with a black president and a black US attorney general. Don’t you think that if there was any systemic oppression of blacks by the police in this country as the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement claims, the Obama administration would have done something about it? (For those with short memories, BLM started in 2013 during Obama’s second term.) Henry Fowler Stevensville
Racism in the air we breathe
As a comfortable white person living in one of the most beautiful places on the planet, how can I say that racism is embedded in our culture? To answer this, I only have to ask this further question: what problem or challenge have I faced in my life because of the color of my skin? None. Police brutality against people of color is only the awful tip of the iceberg. Racism poisons education, housing, employment, opportunities of all kinds, and its stresses imperil people of color throughout this country. White “superiority” was the caustic excuse for enslaving other people and continues to mar our chances of ever achieving the ideals we say are foundational to this country. Just look at Derek Chauvin’s facial expression. See that his hands are in his pockets as he snuffs the life out of a person for 8 minutes and 46 seconds--over $20. It is not a matter of only bad or mean people being racist. We must all understand how we are complicit in it and do whatever we can to dismantle it. Carla Homstad Stevensville
Twenty years of fire
Since the year 2000 we have had fires every year. It is known as Fire Season. Winter, Spring, and Fire. It really isn’t necessary, when we have plenty of rain and snow, the rivers are overflowing, it could be beautiful here. 90 percent nationwide are caused by man. We need laws in place and punishments for deliberate and careless fire setting. Not only do the fires burn up critical habitat and many times homes, but each year the heavy smoke and pollutants with particulates imbed permanently in our lungs. It is time for the Forest Service under the USDA to change their LET BURN policy and prevent fires and how about replanting some trees to keep our ground from drying out where it has been scorched by these fires. Trees are critical for shade and oxygen. Wouldn’t it be great if Montana became one of the states with no horrible fire season? Paying for these fires will come out of your pockets and right now it looks like there won’t be a whole lot of cash in the US bank. Kate Gervais Corvallis
A short list of 30
The people of the Bitterroot Valley are precious in the eyes of God! I’ve given considerable time and thought to this communication. I owe it because of the kindness that I have received in this valley. Having shown me such, I thank you all. Now here’s the deal. I try to avoid making
Calendar
Hamilton Senior Center meals
Hamilton Senior Center is preparing meals for take out on the following schedule: Monday, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. call in to order meals for the week. Thursday, pick up between 12 noon and 1 p.m. For orders and info: 3635181.
AA meetings
Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.
Al-Anon
Stevensville Al-Anon Group meets each Thursday at 7:30 p.m. in the small dining room at the Living Centre, 57 Main Street. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 239-0878.
Narcotics Anon
Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).
Free Indeed
Free Indeed is a faith-based addiction support group. Contact Donald Layman at 203-8579 or Pastor Jim Landis at 642-9849.
Gamblers Anon
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
broad spectrum observations and stereotyping at all times. Life just isn’t that simple. We all are in need of something. It could be time, money, health, work, spiritual nourishment, whatever. We all want. We all need. The question is, ‘Do we need to pay such a high price for our wants?’ Some people seem to think that the introduction of marijuana to this area is of the utmost importance. Under the guise of humanitarian effort, they may be cloaking the age-old issue of monetary profit. Once again greed, gain, and fear of survival raise their ugly heads. Wearing, of course, their pleasant masks. Oh, but if we could be true to ourselves, what a lovely world this would be. In the course of my personal history I have found the following short list of observations to be true and accurate. 1. Young marijuana users are much more likely to drop out of high school. 2. Families are being destroyed. 3. Lazy slothful attitudes abound. 4. Young panhandlers increase in numbers. 5. Neighbors live behind locked driveway gates, no longer friends. 6, Gunshots are heard repeatedly and daily as warnings to stay away. 7. The freedom to hunt and fish becomes less and less. 8. The fish die in poisoned streams. 9. Dogs die and people become ill due to the invasion of blue algae. 10. Water wars abound. 11. Murders and assaults are more frequent. Interesting because it’s supposed to be such a peaceful drug. 12. Missing person posters are seen in grocery stores, gas stations, post offices, etc. 13. You cannot hike in the woods for fear of being shot. 14. The police can become as corrupt as the growers. 15. Apprehension prevails. 16. Mental health issues
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. Income guidelines are 1-$23,107; 2- $31,284; 3-$39,461; 4-$47,638; 5-$55,815. For each additional family member add $8,177. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Facebook; www. facebook.com/Ravalli-CountyWIC.
Family Shelter
The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.
Senior shuttle
The BitterRoot Bus will be running a 6:30 a.m. Shuttle for Seniors and people with compromised immune systems on Tuesdays and Thursdays until further notice. This bus will be for seniors to get to Albertsons for increase. 17. Church attendance decreases. 18. A very small percentage of the medical marijuana ever reaches the sick. 19. Most of the monies leave the community. 20. Old friends and partners become enemies. 21. Men are often kidnapped and forced to work for growers using the families as hostages. 22. Innocence dies. 23. Dependence upon the habit permeates the mind, body, culture, economy, moral fiber and all aspects of human existence. 24. Misunderstanding and confusion prevail. 25. Psychological warfare runs rampant. 26. Freedom ends in the name of freedom. 27 Individuality dies in the name of individual rights. 28. Many people become what the drug determines, all the while denying that it is happening. 29. Good loving people are duped into falsehood. 30. Priests preach in the church of marijuana. I’ve tried to be without emotion or exaggeration while composing this letter. These are but a few of the facts that I have experienced concerning this issue. I’ve been there. I’ve seen it. These conditions exist today. Please protect yourselves and your loved ones with wisdom and the knowledge that I have given you today. Do not allow yourselves to be seduced. Take a closer look at this presence in your community. ‘To know the road ahead, ask those coming back.’ --Chinese proverb. None of this is imaginary. It’s all true. Something to think about. Your mind is worth it! Once again your enemy raises its ugly head. Legalizing marijuana at 21 is only a step in the wrong way. Forrest G. Curley Hamilton
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Stevensville •• 777-0028 360-2661 203Main MainSt.• Stevensville
Worship at 12:0011p.m. Sunday Worship AM In this Church there shall be no outcasts. In this Church there shall be no outcasts. 7 to 9 a.m. senior shopping. Call the BitterRoot Bus at 363-7484 to schedule your ride. You must call in advance!
Wednesday Farmers Market
A farmers market is held every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. starting June 3rd at 111 s. 4th Street in Hamilton.
Three Mile bingo
Bingo is held every first and third Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Community/Senior Center, 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Proceeds go to build a new center. For information call 7773710.
Three Mile Coffee Club 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.
Keeping peace in the face of injustice
Prejudice comes in many forms, Prejudice is never right. I overheard at a gas station late Sunday morning, June 14, near Hamilton, a woman taunting a peace officer, “I smell bacon, I smell pork, watch out piggy, I have a fork.” She and her companion laughed. Can anyone read this and not feel sick at heart? God bless that officer who was able to keep his peace after such a reprehensible slur and in the face of such ingratitude. Police officers put their lives in danger for our safety, they are there when we, who are strangers to them, call for help. They will be there even for that mean woman if she calls them for help. My thanks to them all, I know, I am sure, that it must be far more than “just a job” to them. Susan Kephart Hamilton
Glass half full
Is the glass half empty or half full? Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue visited Missoula on June 12 to announce a “new vision” of increasing productivity from our National Forests. It will surely evoke howls from environmentalists and overly optimistic cheers from industry. Is this directive good or bad? Well, it depends on what you want from your National Forest. During my long career in public land management, I worked under 6 Presidents and as many or more Agriculture Secretaries. Every administration leaves a legacy by issuing Directives or Executive Orders to highlight their political views or to please their voters. I frequently felt whipsawed, especially if he was from a different party, as I carried out my new bosses’ orders while trying to follow through on the commitments I had made to the public under the prior administration’s priorities. Cynics will say that Secre-
Bike, Walk, Roll
2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN. Get motivated to move this summer with a chance to win prizes with the 2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN virtual health incentive program by MSU Extension in Ravalli County. From June 1-August 31, 2020, log electronically all of the times you engage in physical activity - each activity is eligible for a entry into the prize raffle. The program is free and open to residents of Ravalli County over the age of 18. Learn more by calling the MSU Extension Office at 375-6611 or visiting online at http://ravalli.msuextension.org/healthandwellness.html
Story Time
Are you desperately missing your Library Story Times? Fret no more- you can join Annika from North Valley Public Library for Story Time Live Online! on Wednesdays in June at 10:3010:45 a.m. for this North Valley Public Library online program. Come enjoy fun stories, a quick early literacy activity, and a creative craft idea. Visit the website to register for this event. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
WiFi hotspots at library
Do you need internet at your house to look for a job, apply for unemployment or a fishing license, fill out the 2020 Census? North Valley Library now has internet hotspots to check out. A hotspot is a small box that brings a WiFi signal into your home so you can use the internet. Hotspots can be checked out for seven days only. The overdue charge for each day is $1.00. There must be a cell tower within range. Your computer, tablet, or smart phone must be WiFi compatible. Hotspots are filtered for content. Please conserve data usage for the next patron. Director Denise Ard says, “Hotspots are easy to use and we have included simple instructions to help you get connected. We are happy to be able to offer hotspots to our patrons that do not have internet at home.” NVPL can only check out hotspots to its card holders but other libraries will have hotspots as well, thanks to the Montana State Library. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For a list of current library services check the website at northvalleylibrary.org.
Rubber Duck Reading Club and Model railroad Book Bingo for display cancelled Kids & Teens The Bitterroot Valley Model Spend the summer reading and win fabulous prizes from June 8-August 10! Register for Rubber Duck Reading Club and Book Bingo on the Library’s website or call the Library. Rubber Duck Reading Club and Book Bingo materials will be available for curbside pickup starting on Monday, June 1, just call! Or you can print materials on the Library’s website. The Rubber Duck Reading Club is suitable for ages 0-4 and Book Bingo is suitable for ages 5-18. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For
tary Perdue’s visit is election year politics, merely a photo-op to elect Representative Gianforte as Governor and re-elect Senator Daines for another term. Others will describe it as an effort to circumvent environmental regulations, create jobs by increasing logging, mining, grazing, and bring in more revenue for local governments. This view shows the glass as half empty. I prefer to see the glass as half full. If the Forest Service spent less time and money on environmental documentation, there would be more time and money available for the programs that are currently underfunded. We could reduce the risk of life and property loss by wildfires through a regular program of cross boundary prescribed burning and more fuels reduction projects. More seasonal jobs and businesses could be added to our economic mix in the valley by permitting more commercial recreation services. Wildlife habitat improvement projects could be designed to increase big game herds and help fill our freezers. And the Forest Service could do a better job of providing recreationists safe drinking water, clean toilets, and maintained roads and trails. So when you the read the directive that tells the Forest Service to increase productivity and customer service, that is great news! However, we’ll have to wait and see what happens. Since this directive doesn’t come with more funding, something will have to give, but what? “Washington DC” is telling us it is up to us to figure it out. This is exactly what is happening on the Bitterroot National Forest. I am a member, along with numerous other valley residents, of one of the two active Ravalli County Citizens’ “Collaboratives”. We are each a diverse group of volunteers who donate our time listening to each other and providing input to the Forest Service. We seek solutions and advise the Forest Service experts to try new ways to do work and to make environmental analysis documen-
Railroad Club (BVMRR) will not be running trains on First Fridays until further notice because of current COVID-19 health concerns. It is too difficult to properly monitor visitor spacing in the layout site and have younger visitors not handle areas around the trains. The club hopes to start up again after Labor Day if the situation permits.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 5
St. Mary’s Mission, Museum open Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum is open for the 2020 season. COVID-19 health guidelines for the safety of the staff and the public are in place. You’re invited to visit the Mission for a guided tour of the historic buildings. The museum and art gallery in the Visitor Center are free for you to browse. A featured exhibit is an antique toy display. The gift shop has many new Made in Montana gift items. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 to 3 with the last tour at 2 p.m. Call 777-5734 for information.
Free summer meal program
St. Mary’s Mission Parish announces the sponsorship of the Simplified Summer Food Program for children. Meals will be made available at no charge to attending children 18 years of age and younger who have enrolled in the programs. Children who are members of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance units, or households receiving Food Distribution Programs on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) benefits are automatically eligible to receive free meal benefits at eligible program sites (enrolled summer programs or residential summer camps). Other children from families whose income is at or below the levels in the following table are also eligible for free meal benefits if enrolled in the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) program at Stevensville and Victor schools through the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be distributed at the following location: • St. Mary’s Mission Parish Family Center • June 8 through August 14 • Meals can be picked up between 10:00 and 11:00 am at the side entrance of the Family continued on next page
tation more efficient and effective. Instead of spending countless hours and money making environmental documents bombproof to litigation why not dedicate that time and money listening, reaching compromise, and building trust between the collaboratives, the Forest Service, and the public. Local Forest officials could then be able to design projects that meet our collective wants while complying with our environmental laws. This shouldn’t be asking too much. Working together would go a long way to breaking down the gridlock in getting things done and reduce the polarization that exists between environmental groups and commodity interests. It has the potential to not only restore confidence in the Forest Service, but also help free up funds to implement historically underfunded
programs while achieving some of the efficiencies and cost savings that we would all like to see. Margaret Gorski Stevensville Editor’s Note: The above letter is being reprinted because an incorrect version was published last week. The Star regrets the error.
Imaginary Fact-based Interview 2 with Donald Trump (Based on his own words and actions) by Allen B. Gates
Reporter: President Trump, many Americans consider you unfit for office and a menace to our democratic Republic! What do you say? Trump: Those Americans are Trump haters who believe Fake News! America is great again because of me. As I told the New Yorker, I’ve always said I can be more Presidential than any President in history, except for Honest Abe Lincoln Lincoln was a Republican and honest, just like me! His poll number weren’t as high as mine!
.
Letters Policy
Although it is solely at the discretion of the owners/ editors, in the interest of promoting free speech it is the policy of the Bitterroot Star to print all letters as space permits, with very few exceptions. If you don’t see yours, call Victoria at 777-3928.
Reporter: Of course, you know there were no polls in Lincoln’s time as president! How can you claim to be as presidential as Abraham Lincoln with approval ratings in the low to mid 40’s?
Trump: If there had been polls, mine would have been better! Everyone knows that! Everyone knows I’ve made America great again! I can tell you that!
Reporter (Continued): Competent (capable, fit, qualified): Your deficit of leadership and management skills and knowledge sets a low standard. Your business background did not Reporter: Many say it’s hard to understand how low approval ratings means you’ve made America great again. qualify you to be president. All you did was mismanage a large “mom and pop” business. You talk a lot, but most of what you say is divisive. You don’t understand that words (and actions) matter! Some You had none of the tempering and experience words don’t belong in the same sentence with you name! to lead and manage a large, complex organization. Your personnel choice were Here are some examples. Credible (being believable): Studies show credibility is the grossly in error. Constitution (the foundation of our democratic most desired leadership characteristic). Because of your many lies and mis-statements, many don’t believe you are Republic) You’ve brazenly assaulted its principles and our institutions. You claim Article a credible leader! Christian (someone who believes in Jesus Christ and acts in II allows you to do whatever you want! Many accordance with the Ten Commandments and the Golden believe you r intent is to become a dictator! Rule). In spite of your claims to be a Christian, many consider your bullying, intimidation, lying, and personal Trump: It’s all unfair! It’s unfair conduct hypocritical! Many find you unchristian! Trump hating fake news! Don’t believe what you see! I am the chosen one! Only I can fix it! I can tell you that!
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Page 6 -- Bitterroot Star
Calendar continued
Center. Contact St. Mary’s Parish Office for more information at: (406) 777-5257. St. Mary’s Mission Parish also supports the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) programs in Stevensville and Victor by providing sack lunches to the enrolled children while they are in session.
Child care help available
Are you earning less right now due to reduced work hours? If you were previously over income, you may now qualify for child care assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship. We encourage you to call us today to find out if you are eligible! Eligibility is for 12 months, so if you qualify now, you will be eligible for the whole year, even if your hours increase again. Contact Child Care Resources today to see if you qualify at 406728-6446 or go to childcareresources.org
Bitterroot seed collection
Johnny “Bitterroot” Stroud need help to collect bitterroot seeds this season. The plants bloom the first three weeks of June. Seeds get harvested three weeks after they bloom. John will teach anyone interested how to do this. Call 880-8286 or 777-5054. John doesn’t sell these seeds; he gives them away in order to make sure the bitterroot plant will not become extinct.
John Owen’s Birthday
Major John Owen, one of Stevensville’s founding fathers, would be 202 this Saturday, June 27. November 5, 1850: “This is to certify that I, P.J. Joset, Catholic Missionary, of the first part, have bargained and sold all the property at St. Mary’s Mission Flathead Country known as the Church
improvement unto Jno [John] Owen, of the second part, for the Sum of Two Hundred and fifty Dollars ($250.00), the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged.” This is an excerpt from the first written property sale in Montana. This Saturday, June 27th, would be John Owen’s 202nd birthday. A portion of this property is now Fort Owen State Park in Stevensville. Fort Owen State Park is open to the public from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., seven days a week, with special ranger programs on the archaeology and history of the Fort on select Saturdays beginning in July. Call 406-273-4253 for more info about accessing the Fort (parking is limited) and about the program
Monday, June 22 Mother Goose Sings & Swings Live Online!
Tune in to North Valley Public Library’s Facebook Live on Mondays, June 22 & 29 at 10:30 a.m. for interactive songs and rhymes, a story, and maybe even some dancing! Mother Goose Sings and Swings is planned for babies to 3 years of age, accompanied by an adult and is designed to promote early literacy skills in the very young child. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Wed, June 24 Bitterroot Quilters Guild
Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Bitterroot Quilters Guild will meet Wednesday, June 24 at 6:30 p.m. in the Grandstands at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds, where social distancing can be practiced. Attendees should be prepared to climb stairs, and bring something to sit on to protect their clothing. No refreshments will be served. Masks are optional. There will be a short business meeting, followed by voting
Datsopoulos, MacDonald & Lind, P.C. Attorneys at Law
A FULL SERVICE LAW FIRM
Car Accidents & Personal Injury Real Estate & Business Divorce & Work Comp Wills & Probate Criminal Defense DUI
and installation of the 2020-2021 slate of officers and Show and Tell by the members. Tena Chapman, Membership Chair, will be collecting annual dues of $20 per person. Membership is open to quilters from beginner through advanced. To learn more, the public is invited to attend the June meeting as a guest. The Guild does not meet during the summer months; the next general meeting is planned for September. For more information, visit the Bitterroot Quilters Guild on Facebook.
gloves, rakes and weed eaters. Plans are to remove some of the old garden bed debris and rocks, and cleaning the perimeter. Gas for weed eaters is available.
Saturday, June 27
On Monday, June 29 at 6 p.m. the North Valley Public Library will host part 2 of this series via Zoom. “This will be much more hands-on about what folks can do to support the Monarchs’ migration through the valley,” explains, Maggie Hirschauer, Bitterroot Monarch Project Coordinator. Monarch butterflies feed on nectar from many different wildflowers but only lay eggs on milkweed. Milkweed is a required food source for their larvae. There are several species of milkweed native to Western Montana. Showy milkweed is the most widespread and numerous in the Bitterroot Valley. The Field Crew transplanted around 1,000 showy milkweed root cuttings across the MPG Ranch in late April 2019. Volunteers can help map milkweed and survey results. Throughout the season crews scout roadsides and parks from Missoula to Stevensville for milkweed. When monitoring milkweed, they walk a grid pattern searching all surfaces of every milkweed plant for signs of monarchs. To hear more about Monarch butterflies and/or to volunteer to help map milkweed join the Zoom presentation. Registration is necessary to receive the Zoom link for the talk. Go to NorthValleyLibrary.org and click on the Calendar. Find the event/date and click; a registration window will open. For more information about current offerings and events at the library check the website at northvalleylibrary.org.
‘Gardening in Bee Country’ workshop
Join the Missoula Urban Demonstration (MUD) Project and the National Wildlife Federation for a “Gardening in Bee Country” workshop on Saturday, June 27 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. This workshop will be all about creating pollinator-friendly garden spaces at home. Participants will learn about what bees need to survive, become familiar with native plants that support pollinators, help plant new native plants at MUD, and build their own native bee house to take home. Attendance will be limited to 10 and social distancing will be practiced throughout the workshop. Tickets and more information at mudproject.org.
Flag retirement
The Boy Scouts will hold a flag retirement ceremony on Saturday, June 17 at Florence Carlton Community Church (south end of parking lot). The public is welcome. Social distancing rule will be in effect.
Sunday, June 28 Community Garden clean up
St. Mary’s Community Garden is holding a garden clean up day. All are invited to stop by on Sunday, June 28 from 12 noon to 3 p.m. to help give the garden a well deserved “spruce up.” If you are able to attend please bring
Monday, June 29 Monarchs Matter Part 2: Bitterroot Monarch Butterfly Project
Buy local! 777-3928
Plant Growth Enhancer Comprehensive Natural Liquid Nutrients
No Manures - No Unwanted Seeds Controls Insects - Gnats, Mosquitoes, etc. Lawns, Trees, Flowers & Crops NON-TOXIC Plants Stay Greener Longer!
Many Local References Call 360-5543
POLE BUILDING SPECIALIST
We’re really the BEST!
Hamilton Office • 961-9003
• snow removal • bobcat work • small concrete work • fencing • garages • garage doors • carports • decks
Missoula Office • 728-0810
Call Jim • 406-381-7337 • Hamilton email: werstwconstruction@yahoo.com
(George Corn, Resident Attorney)
Wednesday, July 1 Stevensville Garden Club
The Stevensville Garden Club will meet Wednesday, July 1 at 1 p.m. at the Community Baptist Church, 409 Buck Street. Stevensville Garden Club, which was established in 1939, now has 33 members. Even during the COVID-19 crisis era, the club has garnered five new members. The club is always looking for new members to work together on community beautification projects, enjoy various speakers and field trips, and learn from each other. The public is invited to attend. Call Colleen at 273-3973 for more info.
Saturday, July 4 Hamilton fireworks display
Please join the City of Hamilton in celebrating Independence Day at Ravalli County Fairgrounds! Traditionally, the 4th of July has been enjoyed with backyard barbeques and fireworks. This year put your feet up, let us do the cooking and enjoy an amazing Fireworks show! Enjoy the open space, fresh air, delicious food available for purchase from our local vendors, while visiting your neighbors, friends and family (while practicing social distancing). Come and celebrate your independence at the Fairgrounds! If you would like to donate funds for the show, send to the City of Hamilton, 223 South 2nd Street, Hamilton MT 59840; Memo: Fireworks
Thursday, July 9 Fire and climate change lecture
The Bitterroot Climate Action Group is trying something new— a public lecture using Zoom! The group will present Phil Higuera speaking on Thursday, July 9 at 7 p.m. on “Fire and Climate Change in the West.” Higuera is an associate professor of fire ecology at the University of Montana, where he directs the PaleoEcology and Fire Ecology Lab (www.cfc.umt. edu/research/paleoecologylab) and teaches courses on fire and disturbance ecology. Research in his lab focuses on dunderstanding the interactions among climate, vegetation, and wildfire activity
over a range of scales of time and place, in the past, present, and future. Phil’s talk draws upon current scientific research that helps us understand the relationships between climate change and wildfire activity, with a regional focus on the Northern Rockies. Topics include context from the past, the causes and ecological impacts of recent increases in fire activity, expectations for the future, and what we can do in response. This talk is free and open to the public, however, advanced registration is required; register here: https://tinyurl.com/FireAndClimateChange After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about how to join the talk. To participate, you will need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a decent internet connection. If you have not used Zoom before, log on 5 minutes early to make sure your device has the required software or app.
Golf Tourney to Benefit NVPL Library
Birdies for Books, the 2nd Annual NVPL Golf Scramble, is planned for Saturday, August 15, at Whitetail Golf Course in Stevensville. All proceeds benefit the North Valley Public Library. The event will begin with an 8 a.m. check-in and a 9 a.m. shotgun start for the nine-hole scramble, followed by lunch, awards, and a silent auction. Cost is $150 for each team of four, and this year’s play is limited to nine teams. Prizes will include $150 for first place, golf swag for second place, and other awards for a Hole in One, Longest Putt, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. Hole Sponsors and donated items for the silent auction are needed. The cost to sponsor a hole is $300, which gives the donor a charitable tax deduction and their personal or business name at the hole and on the NVPL website. Registration forms are available in Stevensville at the golf course, 4295 Wild Fowl Lane; Fireside Pizza, 3885 US 93, and the North Valley Public Library, 208 Main St. To sponsor a hole, donate an item, or for more information, contact Amy Horlacher at amybhorlacher@gmail.com or (480) 332-8737 or Jody Torrey at jodymarietorrey@gmail.com or (406) 274-8454. The event is presented by the NVPL Foundation, a nonprofit organization that raises money to support the North Valley Library.
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 7
Stevensville Mayor Brandon Dewey is working hard for our community! He has the citizens’ best interests at heart! Just look at some of the many accomplishments of Mayor Dewey and his administration during the last 3 years: • Cash balanced for first time in decades • Audits are caught up • Billing policies & procedures established • First ordinance in 2 years was passed to aid in addressing graffiti in public spaces • Lighting installed at the park to improve security • Sale of surplus vehicles and equipment generating revenue • Firefighter physical program • Acquisition of Pierce engines updated fire department fleet • Pool updates to electric system for safety • Pool facade updated • Pool ventilation installed • New heater installed at swimming pool • Collaboration on the 4th of July with the Pignic, Skate Jam and Fireworks Show • Lewis & Clark Park public restroom remodel complete with ADA family restrooms • Parks & Recreation Programming established • Facebook page launched to help engage citizens • Volunteerism by employees has increased in the community • Balanced budget was proposed and adopted, the Town operates within its means • Cash receipting has improved the efficiency of the office and reduces printing costs • New police officer hired • New police vehicle purchased • New building inspector hired • Overtime has been reduced by over 50% • Use of sick leave has been reduced throughout the organization • Compliance program is leading to the cleanup of properties and addressing other code issues • Airport grant received for infrastructure updates • Airport receives $1.7M in State, Federal funds for improvements • Ambulance service to secure and backup the current EMS system • Fire Department SCBA’s have been grant funded, taking pressure off the Capital Fund • Increased community outreach by Police Dept. in an effort to restore trust in our police force and build relationships with our citizens • Parking lines painted on 3rd Street • Stop signs installed on 2nd Street • Website saw its first updates since 2013 and updates continue • Email system upgrade • Successful implementation of snow removal plan, prioritizing routes and completing a full city plow sooner • Business resource brochure developed for information about the Town of Stevensville for businesses • Partnership with SMSA on the visitor’s kiosk • Economic Support & Recovery Task Force established for COVID-19 • Upgrades to Public Works equipment: new vehicle, new backhoe, new mini excavator • Agenda management software implementation • Live streaming meetings for citizen engagement • Streetscape maintenance downtown • Bike path trees replaced working with NWE • Fall Cleanup Program launched and completed • ‘Flip the Switch’ program successful • Free Christmas Tree Disposal offered
All that and more in spite of the efforts by Council President Bob Michalson and his cronies to thwart the Mayor at every turn: • “Unless you talk to the press (Brian’s response) not much we could do, unless we went to the press and slandered Brandon. Since we are elected officials, not much we can say in an official meeting. We will just keep making his life miserable… Back to the Ludington era, haha.” -- Town Councilor Bob Michalson in an email to Councilor Robin Holcomb • “It should be noted that, if bullying were effectively prevented by policy, it is at least arguable that Mr. Michalson’s words and actions... could meet the Town’s definition of bullying. The staff characterizes Mr. Michalson’s... words and actions as intimidating and undermining. It is conceivable that reasonable minds could find that the Council violated its own personnel policies by allowing Mr. Michalson... to speak to the staff in a way the staff finds threatening and humiliating.” -- In Findings of Investigative Report by Malin Stearns Johnson of Johnson and Johnson Law, PLLC following allegations by former Town Clerk Audree Tribbensee of bullying, harrassment and creation of a hostile work environment by Town Council and former mayor Jim Crews • “The investigation revealed a work environment that most staff perceive as toxic and intolerable and which, if not resolved, has the potential to result in liability to the Town in the form of a constructive discharge claim and possibly multiple such claims...” -- In Summary of Findings, Investigative Report by Malin Stearns Johnson of Johnson and Johnson Law, PLLC following allegations by former Town Clerk Audree Tribbensee of bullying, harrassment and creation of a hostile work environment by Town Council and former mayor Jim Crews • “It is terrible that you got sucked into Dewey’s manipulative lies and deceit. I try to tell everyone to get everything he says in writing. His word is no good...” -- Town Councilor Bob Michalson in an email to a local property owner who was applying for a variance • “... I don’t care what [Town Attorney] Scott Owens says.” -- Town Councilor Bob Michalson in an email to Mayor Brandon E. Dewey Paid for by Sue Devlin.
Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Get ready for summer!
BOY SCOUT Flag Retirement
Saturday, June 27th • 7 pm COOLSCULTPING SPECIAL Buy 4 cycles & get 2 for free! Offer good through June 30th
Florence Carlton Community Church At south end of parking lot Social distancing rule in effect
SAPPHIRE COMMUNITY HEALTH IS READY TO SEE YOU In person and telehealth appointments are available.
Rosalee Shorter PA-C
Expert training & 13 years experience in non-surgical facial rejuvenation
406.880.0804
293 Rodeo Drive • Florence www.rsaesthetics.net Medical Director: Dr. Jeffrey Sweat
Times have been tough, we know!
We can help!
➢ We will provide you with a free mask and hand sanitizer at your visit. ➢ The safety of our patients, employees, and providers remains our highest priority.
CALL US FOR AN APPOINTMENT (406) 541-0032
KITCHEN REMODELS IN ONLY 2-5 DAYS!
If you have been affected by COVID 19 closures and want to boost your business, we will match your advertising dollars
Ask us how and we will help!* *Some Restrictions Apply
Before
7,200 papers Every Week!
Local s e s s e n i Bus
Local People
Because we are locally owned and have been here since 1985, we
Support Local!
Local Communities
After Refacing
Thomas Schmitt | Local Owner
406.375.0262
kitchentuneup.com
The Bitterroot Star 115 W. 3rd Ste 108 Stevensville • 406-777-3928
Call Jean - 406-239-4354 or Liz - 406-880-2007
Visit Us Inside Sears Hometown Store:
STARTING AS LOW AS
$99 - $249 A MONTH!
1704 North First Street Suite A • Hamilton, MT 59840 Each franchise is locally owned and operated.
1 Day Tune-Up • Cabinet Painting Redooring • Refacing • Custom Cabinets
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
County open burning Homebuyer education class scheduled information Although the Bitterroot Valley has seen cool and wet weather conditions over the past month, area fire managers continue to urge Ravalli County residents to observe fire safety guidelines when conducting open burns of debris piles, fence lines, and fields. Long term forecasts show a warming trend as we enter the Independence Day weekend, as well as significant wildland fire potential in western Montana for the months of July, August, and September. Other areas in Montana have already seen wildland fires break out in the past weeks that have threatened homes, livestock, and property. Firefighting organizations from the local, state, and federal levels have experienced challenges in mobilizing resources this year, relating to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Guidelines involving travel and operations have been put in place to reduce the chance of exposure to COVID-19. “We want to keep our firefighters and our communities as safe and healthy as possible,”
said Erik Hoover, Director of Emergency Management for Ravalli County. Fire managers will also be keeping a closer eye on weather conditions and fire potential, and may recommend that burning or fire restrictions be put in place a little earlier than normal this summer. “We are encouraging our residents to get their open burning done now, when fire danger conditions are low and before any burning restrictions are put in place,” Hoover added. Debris burning is expected to be closed in Ravalli County within the first two weeks of July. Fire officials will begin weekly fire updates to the County Commissioners on Monday, July 6, including possible recommendations for burning restrictions in Ravalli County. Information on the burn permit system, preparing your home and property for wildfire, fire prevention, and other community resources is available at www.fireintheroot.org. Residents are also encouraged to sign up for emergency notifications through the Hyper-Reach program at www.ravalli.us.
Pre-Paid Simple Cremation
$2,200 406-363-1111
The Bitter Root Resource Conservation and Development Area, Inc. (Bitter Root RC&D) has announced its Home Buyer Education classes for Summer 2020. Classes have been scheduled for July 11. The all-day-Saturday class will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors building at the corner of N. 4th and Cherry streets in Hamilton. The Bitter Root RC&D provides the only HUD-approved Home Buyers Education classes in Ravalli County. Sara Ann Briggs, its Housing Counselor, is HUD certified and NCHEC (NeighborWorks Center for Housing Education and Counseling) certified in five focus areas. All presenters are local professionals in lending, real estate, home inspection, etc. The cost for the in-person class is $75 and includes the one-on-one financial counseling session required prior to taking the group class. Attendees must attend the entire session on Saturday (8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and participate in a one-on-one intake and financial counseling session to qualify for the certificate. This fulfills the education requirement of government insured or funded loans such as VA, FHA, MT Housing, NeighborWorks-MT, USDA Rural Direct and Guarantee, etc. A full discussion of all down payment assistance programs and various loan products including conventional loans is provided. Email Angie at bitterrootrcd@cybernet1.com to request a registration package. The offices are operating with reduced staff on the premises until further notice, and some staff is working remotely. Call 406-363-5450 if you need to drop off the completed registration packet. Participants for the July 11 class must be fully registered by Thursday, July 2, at 3 p.m. This includes payment in full and return of all completed paperwork. All one-on-one coun-
BUrnt Fork Vet Summer Updates DR. MAGDI NIEDERMEYER Dr. Magdi has joined us full-time as a large animal practioner! We will be expanding our large animal services and will be offering afterhours call.
DR. MEG PUCHLERZ Dr. Meg will be working with us part time through the summer!
OPEN NORMAL HOURS We ask that you wear a mask to enter the building and are still offering curbside service to those who cannot or wish to not wear a mask.
CALL FOR PRESCRIPTIONS Please call 406-777-3844 for prescription and food refills, we will bring all product out to you!
seling sessions must be completed by Monday, July 6, at 7 p.m. Email Angie today to reserve your space and have the required paperwork emailed or mailed to you. The one-on-one will be completed with a phone appointment and is included in the cost of the Home Buyer Education class. Payment in full is required to confirm a space, and may be made by check, money order, or MasterCard or Visa. The one-on-one cannot be scheduled until after payment and completed documents are received. If potential attendees are financially challenged, partial scholarships are available for those who qualify. The Bitter Root RC&D office is located at 1709 North 1st Street in the building adjacent to Mildenberger Motors. This program is designed to help all prospective home buyers navigate the home-buying process. Included will be discussions on mortgage readiness, credit, budgets, getting a mortgage, new loan products and/or changes to current government insured or funded loan products, and getting the house you want. BR RC&D Press Release 06/16/2020 Homebuyer education classes are brought to you by the Bitter Root RC&D and funded in part by the Montana Board of Housing, Montana Department of Commerce, and NeighborWorks® Montana. The Rapp Family Foundation, Ravalli County Federal Credit Union, Opportunity Bank, Stockman Bank, First Security Bank, and Mann Mortgage have provided financial support for FY2020. In-kind support is also provided by financial institutions and their employees, the Bitterroot Valley Board of Realtors, which donates the training space, and various individuals who contribute their time and expertise in the classroom. The Bitter Root RC&D promotes Montana Fair Housing and the Federal Fair Housing Law.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 9
Montana COVID-19 update As of Monday, June 22, Montana has had a totl of 734 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Ever Hospitalized - 89 Not Hospitalized - 642 Total Recovered - 550 Active Cases - 103 Active Hositalizations - 13 Uner Investigation - 3 Total Tests CompLeted 72,970 Total Cases by County: Gallatin - 213 Yelowstone - 125 Big Horn - 63 Missoula - 49 Flathead - 48 Ravalli - 17 On Friday, June 19, Ravalli County public Health Depart-
ment issued this update: As of 6 pm. today Ravalli County has another active case, travel related. Ravalli County now has 6 active cases, one hospitalization. Case #1 female in 60-70 hospitalized Case #2 female in 10-20 Case #3 female in 20-30 Case #4 male in 20-30 Case #5 female in 20-30 Case #6 female in 50-60 All cases are isolated and contacts are quarantined. Ravalli County’s active cases are not all counted on the State map due to two cases having out of state addresses. Call 406-375-6672 with questions regarding COVID-19.
LET’S KEEP FIGHTING COVID-19 We’ve all got to do our part.
PROTECT PUBLIC HEALTH IN THE 406
3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com
YES YOU CAN!!! • Become a CNA in 6 weeks • Become an LPN in 2-3 semesters While working part/full time with benefits!
Come Grow With Us!
406-777-5411 • 63 Main Street, Stevensville michael@livingcenter.com
Wash Hands Use Hand Sanitizer
Don’t Touch Face
Cover Sneezes & Coughs
Keep Social Distancing
IF YOU FEEL SICK
Stay Home from Work/School
Call Your Medical Provider
Quarantine as Instructed
Montanans get it, and we’ve got this.
dphhs.mt.gov/publichealth/covid
Wear a Mask
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Page 10--Bitterroot Star
Buying orSelling?We are in your corner
406-369-5983 Jeanne@EXITrealtybv.com
• • • • •
406-396-3655
LAURA SHERRY, REALTOR
9.69 acres Incredible views Easy access to Hamilton or Missoula 2 lots available separately
CraigSiphers@EXITrealtybv.com
CRAIG SIPHERS, BROKER
• • • •
20 acres Great trees, great meadows, great views Several potential building sites Very private Forest service access
Karin@EXITrealtybv.com
KARIN CHIMO, REALTOR
®
STEVENSVILLE / $529,000
JEFF ALEXANDER, REALTOR
®
406-369-5737 Jeff@EXITrealtybv.com
Call me To Sell Your Home! A SMART MOVE 406-531-0783 Kim@EXITrealtybv.com
KIM LENDMAN, REALTOR
®
®
• • • • •
406-880-4179
Susana@EXITrealtybv.com
406-360-9108
BUYERS NEED HOME NOW!
BUYERS NEED
HOME NOW! STEVI TO DARBY $325,000 Price Range Prefer Move-In Ready Master on Main Floor
406-360-9799
SueJustus@EXITrealtybv.com
2.32 acres 250’+ of river frontage Adjoining property available At fishing access Convenient location
406.461.1844
Jennifer@EXITrealtybv.com
JENNIFER KISTLER, REALTOR
LOOKING TO SELL?
SUE JUSTUS, BROKER
®
GREAT BUILDING LOT
UNIQUE RESIDENTIAL LOT
• • • • •
3 bedroom, 2 bath Spacious master suite Open concept Chain link fence and tree lined back yard
CRAIG SIPHERS, BROKER
3 bed, 1 bath Move in ready Fenced backyard with garden Professional Viking range 2.5 city lots
SUSANA MOORE, REALTOR
• • • •
CraigSiphers@EXITrealtybv.com
®
CONVENIENT HAMILTON LOCATION
MY SIGNS NEED TO GO TO WORK
3 bedroom, 2 bath Rustic Alder cabinets Granite, stainless steel, & breakfast bar Oversized 2 car garage
JEFF ALEXANDER, REALTOR
• • • • •
406-369-5737 Jeff@EXITrealtybv.com
406-546-2458
GORGEOUS VIEWS STEVENSVILLE / $479,000
STEVENSVILLE / $159,000
EASTSIDE STEVENSVILLE
406-360-9108
3 bed, 2 baths 9 ft. ceilings & custom cabinetry Finished, heated garage and shop 8 Acres Chef ’s dream kitchen
Laura@EXITrealtybv.com
®
AMAZING PROPERTY
• 3 bedroom, 2 bath • 2.5 acres & newly custom-built barn • Hickory cabinets, marble tile countertops • Oversized two bay garage • Large covered deck
BITTERROOT VALLEY ESTATES
BUYERS NEED HOME NOW!
3 bedroom, 2 baths Fenced yard w/underground sprinklers Covered patio Master suite with spa tub Kitchen with granite, and custom cabinets
®
www.EXITMT.com | 406-375-9251
®
DARBY / $45,000
T ONTRAC UNDER C DAY! in 1
JENNIFER KISTLER, REALTOR
®
SUPERIOR CUSTOM BUILD STEVENSVILLE / $687,000
BEAUTIFULLY CRAFTED
• • • •
Jennifer@EXITrealtybv.com
HAMILTON / $253,000
ALY LESTER, REALTOR
5+ acres Flexible use property Highway 93 frontage Residential & commercial With elevated bench
99 Marcus Street, 3rd Floor | Hamilton, MT, 59840 CUSTOM BUILT HOME
VICTOR / $325,000
MAX COLEMAN,
G.R.I., G.R.I., I.P.E. I.P.E. BROKER/OWNER BROKER/OWNER
• • • • •
406.461.1844
Aly@EXITrealtybv.com
Max@EXITrealtybv.com
DARBY / $345,000
STEVENSVILLE 406-546-0493
406-360-5728
JEANNE WALD, REALTOR
looking for new listings in
VICTOR / $500,000
5 bed, 3 bath + office 2.56 acres Picture windows Backyard is Heaven on earth Quiet end of road privacy
• • • • •
I have BUYERS
LD
HUSON / $165,000
• • • • •
RIVER FRONTAGE
I SOLD ALL OF MY LISTINGS
SO
BUYERS LOOKING
BUYERS LOOKING
CORVALLIS / $449,000
BEST VIEWS IN THE ROOT?
EXIT REALTY BITTERROOT VALLEY
FLORENCE / $365,000
Your Trusted Advisor Give us a call today to start the process!
Un
d
Co er
ntr
act
• Covenants allow for modular or manufactured • City water and sewer available • .21 acres • Access away from city streets
406-360-5728 Max@EXITrealtybv.com
G.R.I., I.P.E. I.P.E. MAX COLEMAN,G.R.I., BROKER/OWNER BROKER/OWNER
HAMILTON•STEVENSVILLE•DARBY•LOLO•LAUREL•POLSON•MISSOULA•WEST MISSOULA•HELENA•GREAT FALLS
CCCCCC SSSSS “WW BBBBB
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 24, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 11
Salmons and goldens – stoneflies galore If reasonable conditions prevail, there should be an increasing amount of good wade fishing activity available on the Bitterroot for the next few weeks. The forks are fishing well. The East Fork near Highway 93 is running high and chilly, with some dry fly activity available on the salmon fly. Golden stone shucks are visible on the streamside rocks, and a some are in the
Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan air. Same on the West Fork and the water above Hamilton on the main stem. There is plenty of wade fishing access in all of these places. In some, you needn’t get your feet wet. Look for places where the current is moving at a moderate speed, next to faster water that will wash dislodged or migrating nymph into the slowermoving water. You don’t need to wade deep or get brave while the water is high. The important thing is to stalk your fish – or stalk the lie that you are fishing. Woody debris and stonefly nymphs Golden stones overlap their bigger cousins, the salmonflies. The hatches occur in the same water. As salmonflies wind down, or even as they peak, as is happening this year, goldens will show. The salmonfly nymphs do well in water where burned or decaying wood is present. What the biologists call woody debris is prime habitat for the big stonefly species. Golden stonefly nymphs will do well anywhere salmonfly nymphs are found, and also adapt readily where the rocks are smaller. Woody debris in the system is a big plus for both insects. You might say that woody debris makes good habitat for the bugs and the fish. Remove or disturb the woody debris in any river and you’re degrading its productivity for the future. That’s why woody debris should be left alone as a natural and valuable part of the West Fork. Too much of it has been illegally disrupted and destroyed in recent years. (This abuse of
the resource has paralleled the manifold growth of commercial floating and decline private citizen-angler use on the West Fork, but that’s a discussion for another day.)
Stonefly nymphs The ever-popular Pat’s Rubberlegs, a nymph made of lead covered with variegated chenille and rubber legs, is a journeyman kind of golden stone pattern. It’s heavy, gets down to the bottom of turbulent water fast, and wiggles when it gets there. That’s usually enough to fool a trout – if the drift of the fly is right. When you’re wading you can fish a golden stone nymph with or without a bobber (excuse me – I meant indicator!) You can fish one fly or two. A great method is to tie a smaller nymph off the back of the larger golden – and here, don’t be afraid to go as small as a #18 midge nymph. Tons of these smaller bugs have been washed out recently, and they are thick along the bottom. Trout will often key on the more numerous food source rather than the biggest. Add weight if you need to, starting about ten inches above the larger fly. And then, I usually prefer to string a batch of small split-shot about four inches apart, as opposed to sticking a small cannonball on the leader. A string of smaller weights, on the other hand, is easier to cast and control, rides more naturally along the bottom without getting hung up as much, telegraphs strikes better, and can be adjusted in small increments to match the bottom and current speed you’re fishing. You’re more limited with the larger one-piece glob of lead. European nymphing Another popular setup is the European-style nymphing technique, in which a small metal ring is attached to the leader, and then two tippets of varying length are attached to that. Heavier nymph goes on the long strand, lighter one goes on the short. No midges here – European nymphs are decorated lead, basically. They’re designed to sink. You can substitute American nymphs if you’re Euro-nymphing, but keep it to yourself. The cast with such a setup, if you can call it a cast, is a short lob into the head of the water you’re fishing – usually less than a rod’s length of line away. Keep it short, and stay close to your work. Give the flies a moment to settle, and then take any slack out of your line as you lead – or follow – the drift downstream. I think if you’re casting upstream and gently leading the flies down, that’s Czech nymphing. I think if you cast across and follow the
drift of the flies, that’s Polish nymphing. But I’m not sure and the trout don’t care. And if you’re confused and don’t know exactly what you’re doing, that’s French nymphing. That’s what you tell your friends, anyway. They’ll be impressed. Back when I was a pup, we called all of it dredging. Terribly unsophisticated. You don’t want to use that term – especially with the wrong people. Whatever you
call it, drifting heavy nymphs along the bottom catches trout. Dry stonefly patterns The venerable Bob Jacklin whose shop in West Yellowstone is a fly fisher’s landmark, advises carrying at least two patterns for the big stonefly hatches. Water conditions can change around the next bend – and what worked well in one place might not work well in another. Carrying that thought further, a fluttering egg-laying stonefly makes a different impression on the water than one that is all done with all of that and is half-dead. The old-time patterns that are tierd to ride high and dance on the water always work best when the egg-laying salmonflies and golden stones are active. The Improved Sofa Pillow, Fluttering Stone, Jacklin’s Salmonfly, and my personal p[attern all call for materials that aren’t too available these days. Fortunately, I have a stash of this old stff and we kleep the traditional salmonfly bins full. Another good one, for the spent salmonfly that is near-dead in the water, is the Water Walker, in either a golden or salmonfly design. When I get out later this week, I’ll be carrying some of those new-fangled foam Water Walkers in addition to my old traditional favorites. I don’t want to miss a chance at a good fishor want of an appropriate fly. Author and flytyer Chuck Stranahan can be reached at chuck@chuck-stranahan.com or visit his fly shop at 109 E. Main in Hamilton.
Stamped Concrete Patios & Walkways
More than just concrete
NATURAL BUILDING STONE • DYES • STAINS • BARK • PAVERS ACCESSORIES • RETAINING WALLS • TOOLS • COMPOST • ROCK • TOPSOIL • COMPLETE SEPTIC SYSTEM DELIVERY AVAILABLE
Don’t forget our Rental Shop!
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.
363-3600 • Fax 363-7260 477 US HWY 93 North, Hamilton, MT 59840 www.donaldsonbros.com
American Owned, Montana Owned, Locally Owned
$
Home Fix-up Headquarters APPLIANCES
$ave Money Repair
Don’t Replace Your Reliable Appliances
363-3592
JOHNSON APPLIANCE SERVICE Parts & Service • 421 S. 1st • Hamilton
Family operated in the Bitterroot Valley for 40 years
WINDOW CLEANING
CARPET CLEANING
Verticals • Wood Blinds • Miniblinds Shades • Pleated • Cellular • Duette® We Beat Ads Claiming 50%-60%-70% off! FREE Measuring, Estimates & Installation Save An Extra $20 on your purchase of $200 or more! 549-2882 • Toll Free 1-888-549-2882
CARPET CLEANING
Windows Right to Your Door!
Western Building Center
Gift Cards Available!
ADVERTISING
Transform Your Water!
CLEANER * BETTER TASTING WATER! NOW AT 2 LOCATIONS:
Crossword Answers on page 13
The perfect gift - in any amount! 3956 Highway 93 North, Stevensville
777-1452
777-4256
Hamilton – 406-363-1782 Missoula – 406-728-6400
www.clearwatersystems.com
Advertise here for as little as $10 per week! Call
777-3928
Classified
Page 12 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Call
777-3928 Deadline Monday
12 noon for Wednesday
SALES/ AUCTIONS
51 Years of Service
Elaine’s Engraving
& Rubber Stamps
363-5193
Professional Estate and Business Liquidation since 2009
www.bluejayestatesales.com
123 S. 5TH Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton frames.com
363-1600
June 24-25 • Hamilton 1110 W. Main June 25-27 • Grantsdale 755 Wall Street July 2-4 • Darby Abel Mini Storage July 9-11 • Hamilton 1093 Golf Course Rd. July 16-18 • Florence 5506 Meadowview South Aug 13-15 • Wisdom Historic Big Hole Ranch! ALL SALES START Day One 5pm-8pm Numbers to keep place in line given at 2pm for Day One sale.
RENTALS 5-ACRE LOTS FOR RENT. Trailer house hookups. 406-7773409.
HELP WANTED
HOME CARE SERVICES is hiring caregivers and CNAs. Flexible schedule, competitive pay. Apply at 925 N. First Street in Hamilton. Call 375-8637.
Following Days 9-12
DOWNSIZING SALE - All kinds of stuff! Saturday, June 27, 9-1. 277 Roosevelt Lane, Hamilton. OUTDOOR ANTIQUE FLEA MARKET. Over an acre of antiques and collectables from many vendors. Sunday, July 12th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Virgelle, off U.S. 87 between Fort Benton and Big Sandy. Sponsored by Virgelle Merc Antiques. Lunch available. 1-800-426-2926 or WWW.VirgelleMontana.com BOHEMIAN CORNER ONLINE ONLY LAND AUCTION - 450 +/- ac. in 3 parcels, near Roy, MT. Great hwy. access; near Missouri River. Bidding closes 7/1/2020 www.ShobeAuction.com (406) 366-0472
FARM & GARDEN
BAGGED WHOLE-GRAIN livestock feed: wheat, oats, barley. Cracked 3-Way (barley, oats, wheat), new crop hay. GRAIN-FED LOCKER BEEF. Call Russ, 3601125 or 961-3528. WE HAVE DOZENS OF FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured hens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, $4/doz. FRESH BATCH of Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb). Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).
BUILDINGS AUTHENTIC TIMBER FRAMED BARNS. Residential and Commercial Timber Packages. Full Service Design - Build Since 1990, (406) 581 3014 brett@bitterrootgroup.com, www.bitterroottimber-
WANTED WE BUY GUNS. Cash paid. New, used, antique or military. Call Rich, (406) 531-6702.
LEGAL NOTICES
P.C.
Dustin M. Chouinard David T. Markette . Megan S. Winderl MARKETTE & CHOUINARD,
601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110 DustinC@mcpcattorneys.com Attorneys for Petitioner MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of RANDALL ROBERT KELLER, Deceased. Probate No. DP 19-129/19 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Personal·Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice·or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Ernie Keller, the Personal Representative, in care of MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. DATED this 30th day of May, 2020. /s/ Ernie Keller, Personal Representative MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, PC /s/ Dustin M. Chouinard Attorney for Personal Representative BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI
COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF HELEN L. HEDMAN aka HELEN LOUISE HEDMAN, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-48 Dept. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Whitney C. Hedman, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 4th day of June, 2020 /s/ Whitney C. Hedman, Personal Representative 1200 S. 3rd Street Hamilton, MT 59840 BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP
tative
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Represen-
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF JOHN T. RAYMOND, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-51 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 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 Thomas J. Raymond, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 8th day of June 2020. /s/ Thomas J. Raymond, Personal Representative BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1-20. MNAXLP
tative
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Represen-
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF DELMON REESE KENNEDY, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-50 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 ADVERTISING having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Christopher V. Kennedy, the Per-
20-Word Personal $8.50 20-Word Commercial $10.50 Each Add’l Word - 20¢ Includes Posting to Web Page
sonal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 8th day of June 2020. /s/ Christopher V. Kennedy, Personal Representative BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1-20. MNAXLP.
tative
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Represen-
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RICHARD FRANCIS CONWAY, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-52 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 Sheila Ann Stockford, 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 16th day of June 2020. /s/ Sheila Ann Stockford, Personal Representative BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY L. SMITH, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-55 Dept. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have been appointed Co-Personal Representatives 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 Margaret Smith Buchanan and Lucille Hernandez, the Co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 18th day of June, 2020 /s/ Margaret Smith Buchanan Co-Personal Representative 218 Hillcrest Loop Hamilton, MT 59840 /s/ Lucille Hernandez Co-Personal Representative 2508 Forest Lake Santa Ana, CA 92705 BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KATHRYN MARIE STREET, also known AS KATHRYN MARIE FRAZIER, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-53 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 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 Hunter F. Street and Ty L. Street, the Co-Personal Representatives, 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 17th day of June 2020. /s/ Hunter F. Street, Co-Personal Representative /s/ Ty L. Street, Co-Personal Representative BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Aliyah Celeste, Aliyah Celeste, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-191/3 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Aliyah Celeste to Celeste Ann Fideldy. The hearing will be on July 9, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: May 26, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 6-3, 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Rebecca Rene Lloyd, Rebecca Rene Lloyd, Petitioner ADVERTISING Cause No. DV-20-203/5 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Rebecca Rene Lloyd to Rebecca Rene Wheeler. The hearing will be on July 16, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: June 1, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court. By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24, 7-1–20. MNAXLP CALL FOR BIDS JUNK VEHICLE HAULING – RAVALLI COUNTY The Board of Ravalli County Commissioners has issued a call for bids for the Junk Vehicle Hauling Contract. An acceptance of a bid would result in a one year contract, with the ability to renew the contract for two subsequent years. Contracted services will be for the removal of junk vehicles from private property throughout the county and placement in the vehicle graveyard. Instruction to bidders can be obtained at the Ravalli County Environmental Health Department 215 S. 4th Street (Second Floor), Suite D, Hamilton, MT, or by calling the Environmental
Health Department at 375-6565, or email a request to RCEH@rc.mt.gov. Seals bids must be received no later than June 29, 2020, at 10:30 AM at the Clerk & Recorders Office, 215 S. 4th Street, (Second Floor), Hamilton, MT. 59840. If you have any questions about the bid process, call Chris Taggart in the Commissioner’s Office at 3756500. Chris Taggart Administrative Assistant Commissioners Office BS 6-10, 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The Ravalli County Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a Public Hearing to receive citizen comment on a Material Modification to move a property boundary between The Stock Farm Common Area B and The Golf Course Parcel A. The property is located in Sections 23, 24, 25 & 26 T6N, R20W, P.M.M., Ravalli County, Montana.The applicant is The Stock Farm Homeowners Association. Information describing the proposal is available for inspection at the Planning Office, in the Administrative Center, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. The Public Hearing will be held Tuesday, June 30th, 2020, at 1:30 p.m., in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room at the Administrative Center. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, prior to or at the meeting. Comments and information submitted at the public meeting will be considered in the decision. BS 6-10, 6-24-20. MNAXLP NOTICE The 2020 Personal Property Tax bills have been mailed. Taxes are due payable before 5 PM are due June 30, 2020. Mail payments must be postmarked by June 30, 2020 or the payment will be returned for additional charges. Please make checks payable to the Ravalli County Treasurer. Visa, Master Card, American Express and Discover are accepted. Now accepting On-line payments at www.ravallicounty. mt.gov Ravalli County Treasurer Dan Whitesitt, Treasurer 215 S 4th St. Ste H Hamilton MT 59840 406-375-6600 BS 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF PENDING ATTACHMENT OF A TAX LIEN (MCA 15-17-122) On Monday, August 3, 2020, by 5:00 pm, the Ravalli County Treasurer will attach a property tax lien to property on which the 2018 taxes are delinquent. The delinquent taxes, including penalties, interest and costs are a lien upon the property and that unless delinquent taxes, penalties, interest and costs are paid prior to August 1, 2020 a tax lien will be attached and may be assigned to a third party. A complete list of all property on which taxes are delinquent is on file in the office of the Ravalli County Treasurer and is open to public inspection and examination on Monday thru Friday from 8:15 am to 5 pm. For further information please contact the Ravalli County Treasurer at 215 S. 4th St., Suite H, Hamilton MT 59840 or at 406-375-6580. BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF PENDING ATTACHMENT OF A TAX LIEN (MCA 15-17-122) On Monday, August 3, 2020, by 5:00 pm, the Ravalli County Treasurer will attach a property tax lien to property on which the 2019 taxes are delinquent. The delinquent taxes, including
BITTERROOT STAR
BUSINESS DIRECTORY COUNSELING Positive Goal Directed Cognitive Behavioral Counseling
Hank Winters, Ph.D.
Licensed Clinical Counselor Serving the Bitterroot since 1980 Most insurance plans accepted
363-3882 • 217 N. 3rd, Hamilton
OFFICE SPACE
Professional OFFICE SPACE FOR LEASE RCEDA Business Center Hamilton 406.375-9416 www.rceda.org
FINANCIAL
PERSONNEL
Looking for WORK?
MARTIAL ARTS
APPLY TODAY WORK TOMORROW Full Time—Part Time
Starting at $9/hr
Post Office Box 402 - Stevensville MT
406.531.5005 • 406.531.9556 www.fosterandfosterfs.com Securities and Advisory Services offered through Commonwealth Financial Network®, Member FINRA/SIPC, a Registered Investment Adviser
WINDOWCOVERINGS COVERINGS WINDOW
Windows Right to Your Door!
Verticals • Wood Blinds • Miniblinds Shades • Pleated • Cellular • Duette® We Beat Ads Claiming 50%-60%-70% off! FREE Measuring, Estimates FREE Measuring, Estimates & Installation & Installation Save An Extra $20 on your purchase of $200 or more! 549-2882 • Toll Free 1-888-549-2882
SEE US TODAY!
A2Z
186 S. 3rdSt • Hamilton • 363-0723 842 S. 1 St., Hamilton - 363-0723 215 Main • 777-1662 115 W. 3rd, St Ste.• Stevensville 106, Stevensville - 777-1662
BANKING
Located at the Canyons Athletic Club
360-5420
FUNERAL HOME
Whitesitt Funeral Home 314 Church
Stevensville
777-5711
Bill & Helen Kropp Serving the Bitterroot Since 1902
penalties, interest and costs are a lien upon the property and that unless delinquent taxes, penalties, interest and costs are paid prior to August 1, 2020 a tax lien will be attached and may be assigned to a third party. A complete list of all property on which taxes are delinquent is on file in the office of the Ravalli County Treasurer and is open to public inspection and examination on Monday thru Friday from 8:15 am to 5 pm. For further information please contact the Ravalli County Treasurer at 215 S. 4th St., Suite H, Hamilton MT 59840 or at 406-375-6580. BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a public hearing for a Ravalli County Open Lands Bond project on Tuesday, July 7th, 2020 at 9:00 A.M. in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room (Third Floor) of the County Administrative Building located at 215 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The proposal is known as the C. Ben White Memorial Fishing Access Site Application. The project is a single parcel with 96 acres and the property is located on the West Fork of the Bitterroot River, six (6) miles south of Darby, and is located south of the intersection at West Fork and Conner Cut-Off Road. Bitter Root Land Trust is the applicant. Information describing the proposals are available for inspection at the Planning Department, located at the County Administrative Building, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. Written comments are encouraged to be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the public hearing and will be forwarded to the BCC for consideration at the public hearing. The public may comment verbally or in writing at the hearings. Comments and information submitted at the public hearing will be considered in the decision. Submit email comments to: planning@rc.mt.gov, and questions can be asked by phone at 406-375-6530. BS 6-17, 7-1-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The Ravalli County Board of Health (BOH) will conduct a Public Hearing to receive public comment on the first reading of the proposed revisions to the Ravalli County Subsurface Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Regulations, previously approved by the Ravalli County Board of Health on December 20, 2010, and effective January 1, 2011. The first reading will be held Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room at the Administrative Center located at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, at the meeting. The meeting will be live streamed via Granicus. Comments and information submitted to the public meeting will be considered in the decision on the proposed changes. Information describing the proposed revision will be available for inspection on June 15, 2020, at the Ravalli County Environmental Health Department located at 215 S. 4th Street, Suite D, Hamilton, MT 59840, and on the Ravalli County website. For questions relating to these meetings, please contact the Ravalli County Environmental Health Department at 375-6567. If you would like to request an electronic copy of the proposed draft, please send a message with the request to rceh@ rc.mt.gov. BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP
(RFP)
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
MANAGED IT SERVICES TOWN OF STEVENSVILLE, MONTANA The Town of Stevensville is requesting bids for IT managed services. The organization has historically worked with an outside IT provider and incurred services on an as needed basis. The Town has identified the need for a comprehensive 3rd party IT service in order to meet the growing digital operations of the municipality including the IT and security needs of local police/criminal justice, water, wastewater, airport, fire department and community pool. Vendors understand that in addition to serving the operational IT needs of the Town, that the organization also needs to improve its cybersecurity and continuity posture given its role in criminal justice, key local infrastructure and data sets: personal/financial/payment information. Full details for this request for proposals can be viewed on the Town’s website at www.townofstevensville.com by clicking on Resources and BIDs/ RFPs. Proposals are due via email to Finance Officer Robert Underwood at robert@townofstevensville.com by 5:00pm on Friday, June 26, 2020. BS 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL The Bitterroot Backcountry Cyclists is accepting bids for clearing and construction work for the creation of mountain-bike designed trails on the Bitterroot National Forest. The project area is approximately six miles north of Darby, MT on the south side of Lake Como. The work will be split among 7 trail segments totaling approximately 8.5 miles. Contracted work will be prioritized to make use of funding available to complete whole segments that fall within our budget. The work consists of clearing and removing trees and limbs within specified clearing limits. Design tread width will be 18” to 36” optimally leaving a 24” – 30” full bench. Trail corridor clearing and tread construction may be performed with a trail machine and finished as necessary with hand tools. Safety, schedules, and quality assurance of specifications will be inspected by the Forest Service representative. Contractor and machine operator must have experience or be familiar with International Mountain Biking Association trail building techniques and Forest Service Standards and Specifications for trail construction. Contractor must be licensed and insured in the State of Montana. Contractor shall provide equipment, maintenance, and transportation to and from the project locations. The contractor will be responsible for lodging, per diem, fuel, and maintenance and repair of all equipment. Bids will be accepted on a per mile basis for each of 7 trail segments. Bids must be received by July 3, 2020 and will be awarded on or about July 10, 2020. Bid packages are available by email from jkernmt@gmail.com or by telephone at 406-381-7903. BS 6-17, 6-24-20. MNAXLP NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Thursday, July 2, 2020 7:00 p.m. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of Stevensville Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 2, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library Community Room, 208 Main Street, for the purpose of considering a Petition for Variance from David Laursen, owner of
Wednesday, June 24, 2020 106 E. 4th Street. The Petition for Variance requests the Board to approve a variance of the following local zoning regulations: Development Code, Section 10-176 (j) - Off-Street Parking a. The required number of off-street parking spaces is a total of seven (7) spaces. The petition requests that the number of required off -street parking spaces be adjusted to three (3) spaces. The remaining required spaces would be available as on street parking spaces . The public hearing will be held at the North Valley Public Library Community Room, 208 Main Street, and live-streamed on the Town’s website and Facebook page. Written comments may be mailed to the Clerk of the Town of Stevensville, 206 Buck Street, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, on or before 5:00 p.m. July 2, 2020 or may be emailed to publiccomment@ townofstevensville.com. Questions may be asked or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271. Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 6-24, 7-1-2020. MNAXLP
munity Room, 208 Main Street, for the purpose of considering a Petition for Variance from the Stevensville United Methodist Church, owner of 216 College Street. The Petition for Variance requests the Board to approve a variance of the following local zoning regulations: Development Code, Section 10-224 - Dimensional Requirements Chart a. The minimum rear yard setback in an R-1 zone is 20 feet. The Applicant is requesting a variance adjusting the rear yard setback to 12 feet for this parcel. The public hearing will be held at the North Valley Public Library Community Room, 208 Main Street, and live-streamed on the Town’s website and Facebook page. Written comments may be mailed to the Clerk of the Town of Stevensville, 206 Buck Street, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, on
or before 5:00 p.m. July 2, 2020 or may be emailed to publiccomment@ townofstevensville.com. Questions may be asked or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271 . Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 6-24, 7-1-2020. MNAXLP
Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
Read local! 777-3928
Looking for a new member of the family? Come see all the wonderful animals waiting for someone special like you! Call 363-5311 Coco says “Become an ad sponsor” or visit our website at www.bitterroothumane.org - call us!
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING Thursday, July 2, 2020 7:00 p.m. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of Stevensville Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on Thursday, July 2, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library Com-
Bitterroot Star
115 W. 3rd, ste 108 • PO Box 8 • Stevensville MT Phone (406)777-3928 email • editor@bitterrootstar.com
The Frame Shop
Glacier Tree Service 15% off with this ad!! Free Estimates. Lic’d/Ins’d
Inspired and precise custom picture framing since 1995
Winter is the best time for cutting your big trees!
Call for appointment: 363-6684
Serving the Bitterroot Valley • Ask about our spring specials
The Frame Shop Inspired and precise custom picture framing since 1995.
HOT SUMMER DEALS OAC. up 0% APR.onths, or m to 72 $3,000 in up to rebates facorty
Ford Explorer
New 2020
XLT
WAS $29,095
4WD, Auto 2.3L I-4 EcoBoost Remote Start, Pwr Windows/Door Locks, ActiveX Interior, Power Heated Front Seats, & Steering Wheel, Heated Second Row Seats, Power Twin Panel Moonroof, Reverse Sensing, Full Screen Backup Camera, Co-Pilot 360, Adaptive Cruise Control, Navigation, Folding Third Row Seats for Seating up to Seven Passengers, Trailer Tow Package and much more.
NEW 2019
Ford F350 Super Duty, Crew Cab
Reg $58,590
0% AP to 72 mR. OAC. up up to onths, or facort$y3,000 in rebates
6.7L Power Stroke V8 Engine, Auto, 4WD, Remote Start, Pwr Windows/Door Locks/Folding and Telescoping Tow Mirrors, Cruise, Leather Interior, Pwr Heated and Cooled Front Seats, Pwr Adjustable Pedals, Navigation, Reverse Sensing, Full-Screen Backup Camera, Trailer Towing Package with Integrated Brakes, Spray-In Bed Liner, Power Rear Sliding Window, FX4 Off-Road Package
Bell McCall
300 W. Main • Hamilton • 363-2011 Competitive Prices - Hometown Services
TRIMMING • CLEARING • STUMP GRINDING
406-396-4835
NOTICE OF CLOSE OF REGULAR VOTER REGISTRATION AND OPTION FOR LATE REGISTRATION Notice is hereby given that regular* registration for the Town of Stevensville Municipal Mayor Recall Special Election to be held on August 4, 2020, will close at 5 PM on July 6, 2020. *NOTE: If you miss the regular registration deadline, you may still register for the election by showing up at the county election office up to and including on Election Day. Between noon and the close of business on the day before Election Day, you can complete and submit a voter registration card, but you will need to return in person to the Ravalli County Election Office on Election Day to pick up and vote a ballot. All qualified active and inactive electors of the Town of Stevensville are entitled to vote in said election. Ballots will be mailed to Active Electors only on July 15, 2020. If you are a registered voter and do not receive a ballot, contact the county election office to update your information as necessary and receive a ballot. Persons who wish to register and who are not presently registered may do so by requesting a form for registration by mail or by appearing at the Ravalli County Election Office, 215 South 4th Street, Suite C, Hamilton, Montana. If you have moved, please update your registration information by filling out a new voter registration card and submitting it to the Ravalli County Election Office. Dated this 10th day of June, 2020. Regina Plettenberg, Ravalli County Election Administrator 215 South 4th Street, Suite C; Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 375-6550
Martin Kukich, Broker Mt/lD Display Ad GRI, ABR, CNHS, PSA, SFR Size: 2 columns wide x 5” long (format to fit) 406-241-9982 Publish: June 17, 24 & July 1, 2020 P.O. Box 475 Victor, MT 59875 Bill: Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder 215 South 4th Street, Suite C Hamilton, MT 59840 nch!
onrad Ra C e th to e m o elcpublication Wverify Please with an affidavit – Thank you!
Cozy Montana Ranchette
3 beds 3 baths, 2 car garage, 2 big shops, 4 stall barn, irrigated, 7.46 acres, private, close to Hamilton MLS# 10063436 $549,900
Outstanding in his field Merle Unruh
Spacious Townhouse: Live in 1; Rent the other. 3 BA, 3BR, garage, fireplace, walkin closet, Laundry room
Call Mark Haldorson! 381-4112 Call today
Mark Haldorson
Customer satisfaction Rating: 5.00 / 5
Talk to Merle for all your Real Estate Needs! Hamilton 363-4700
Insulated barn includes office,4 stalls w/floor drains & padded, wash bay, vet area with stocks, etc., all with hot water floor heat. 48’x 72’ attached indoor arena w/ half walls. Also shed for machinery/hay storage or more stalls All on 21 acres, warm water stream in all pastures and small pond. Lovely 3 br home, hot water floor heat, propane fireplace, well designed kitchen, heated garage, and mountain view from all rooms.
$925,000.
Independently validated by Quality Service Certification, Inc.
CLIFF TREXLER REALTY 369-2509
Wednesday, June 24, 2020
Page 14--Bitterroot Star
The Bitterroot Star
Obituary Thomas E. Evans
Advertisers! Let our 77 years of Combined Experience work for you!
Call today -
777-3928
Don’t delay!
Creative
We know your market better than anyone; and we’re the biggest newspaper in the valley!
(No charge for ad development)
Results Oriented No. 1 in Customer Service Totally Local
Our readers are your customers! The Bitterroot Star
Hamilton - Thomas E. Evans passed peacefully, comforted by his loved ones; so many also with him in spirit. True to his character, he bravely faced his battle with all his strength. Tom was born in 1943 to Eddie and Mary Evans and raised on their family farm in Langdon, North Dakota. Tom dearly loved his farming roots, where he learned the values that shaped him into the hardworking man he became. He attended Langdon High School where he fell for the eldest Schroeder girl, Sandra. She would be his “Blondie” lovingly married for 41 years. Tom graduated from the University of North Dakota earning a Business degree along with his fair share of wild tales! He loved to tell stories from back in the day that likely included fast cars, or hustling pool for “extra money in his pocket.” The pictures of he and Sandra from the Fraternity (ATO) parties speak for themselves and it is obvious they had a LOT of FUN in college! He always missed the first three weeks of classes being they fell during harvest. Each year he would have to convince his professors that it wouldn’t be a problem for him to catch up on the missed material, and it never was. After college and a wedding (September 4, 1965), he and Sandy were off to military life where he began his service in the United States Army. Stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, his natural leadership skills would find him training fellow young soldiers to operate tanks. He and Sandy would begin their family with the birth of their
daughter Kathy, and three years later their son David would arrive in Montana. Tom’s next life turn brought he and Sandy to the beautiful Bitterroot Valley to buy and operate their first hardware store. This was to become the vessel for his passion of business, and what would stimulate and bring the challenges he thrived on. He loved the hardware business and liked to say: “You know me, I bleed ACE red.” Words cannot express how proud his family is of his accomplishments; he earned everything he had. His son David and (wife) Andi now proudly own and operate the legacy Tom built and put his life’s work into. It brought Tom great joy to see David carry on the family business with such success. If Tom were a farmer at heart, one could say the mountains were his mistress. He was a knowledgeable outdoors-man and avidly enjoyed hunting, camping, horseback trail riding, and hiking. Always seeking new adventure, he introduced himself to downhill skiing and was hooked! It became one of his passions, not only for the speed and thrills, but the comradery of his beloved “Old Geezer Club.” He treasured those friendships. The mountains were also the stage for his proud physical accomplishment of competing for many years in the “Mountain Goat Run” endurance hike. He loved the physical challenge of testing himself in an environment he loved so much. Our family will be forever grateful for the love he and Debbie Peterson have shared. They made wonderful memories with world travels to conversations recanting business and events of the day, he of course with his signature whiskey high-ball! Tom will be credited for introducing Debbie to Grizzly Football, they had so much fun planning their Fall around the football schedule and cheering on the Griz! Tom could not quiet his desire for business ventures. Retirement may have included an impressive garden, a great pleasure throughout his life; but to the
end he actively invested his time and expertise in partnering and guiding Brandon Peterson in opening two ACE Stores in the Boise, Idaho area. Their relationship far exceeded business, sharing mutual trust and respect between two men of different generations. He was a leader and role model in the Hamilton community he belonged to for over 50 years. He may have been your friend, your good neighbor, or likely the person that helped you in his store, as he knew how to fix everything! He had a big heart and cared so much about helping others. A generous supporter of local charities, he also impacted so many lives guiding with his wisdom and kindness. He was the beloved patriarch of our family and will be dearly missed. This Father’s Day, have a beautiful ride, Harley or Horseback (Sunny), you loved them both! Thomas was preceded in death by his wife Sandra J. Evans, parents Eddie and Mary Evans, sister Judith Brown, sister in law Judy Evans. His survivors include his children, Kathy (Tucker) Urquhart and David (Andi) Evans; grandchildren, Madeline, Tyson, and Chase Urquhart, Bailey and Luke Evans; siblings, Neil Evans and Lois (Dean) Rumfo; brother in law, Gary Brown; many nieces, nephews, including his special niece, Kelly Jo Henderson and his in-laws that he remained so close to over the years. He also leaves behind his loving partner Debbie Peterson. Services are planned for July 16, 2020 and are being arranged by Daly Leach Memorial Chapel.
We’re celebrating!
35
Years!
The Bitterroot Star Totally local since 1985
Thank you for your support Michael & Victoria Howell