Bitterroot Star - July 12, 2023

American Legion dedication ceremony at Hieronymus Park

On Armed Forces Day, May 20th, Hamilton Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf joined the American Legion Ravalli Post 47 at Hieronymus Park for a dedication ceremony for the “Never Forget Garden” commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Post Commander Deborah Strickland opened the ceremony, stating “I dedicate this memorial to the memory of those who fell in the service of

our country. I dedicate it in the name of those who ofered their lives so justice, freedom & democracy might survive to be the victorious ideals of the peoples of the world…I dedicate this monument to them, and with it I dedicate this Post to the faithful service of our country and to preservation of the memory of those who died that liberty might live.”

Mayor Dominic was key to granting approval for the monument location and read

his Mayoral Proclamation inviting all citizens to spend time at this garden in silence and respect to remember why millions of Americans have fought and died for our freedom. Several of the 28 participants placed white roses on the monument representing the diferent military services, the Coast Guard, and the American Legion Auxiliary. The inspiration for the “Never Forget Garden” and

monument came from past Post Commander Paul Rosenberg. He read a Fleet Reserve Magazine article about the 100th anniversary of the Tomb of the Unknown in Arlington in 2022. The Society of the Honor Guard for the Tomb issued a nation-wide invitation to all Americans to plant gardens to pay tribute as a visual way to represent America’s unwavering commitment to our sacred duty to recognize and remember our veterans and their families, past and future. Paul explained that a “Never Forget Garden” can provide an elegant expression of what resides deeply in the heart of our fellow Americans and proposed that Post 47 create a memorial garden to be a place of perpetual remembrance for our Bitterroot community and a renewal of our commitment to “never forget”.

Commander Deb Strickland (a member of the Society for the Tomb of the Unknown) bought and donated the monument

marker, Post 47 membership approved funding for the project, and the City of Hamilton approved a location at the entrance to the popular Hieronymus Park near the Veteran’s Memorial. Many people assisted in the construction of the monument and gardens over the past year and it seemed ftting to dedicate the memorial on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 20th.

The American Legion Ravalli Post 47 extends profound appreciation to Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf, the City of Hamilton and its Parks Department, and the following incredible supporters: Alpine Granite for their artistry, skill and donation of the granite; Donaldson’s for the base material, cement and chimney block; Evans Ace Hardware for the garden soil; Carl Lebrith for setting the chimney block base; talented graphic artist Shawn Brauch who designed the monument display sign; and to our honorary Post member David Osborn from Seward American Legion Post 5 who assisted every step of the way while visiting his family in Hamilton. Special thanks also to Deb Strickland, Wes Maydole, Doug Simmons and Renee Whitaker. Post 47 is proud to leave this beautiful monument as a legacy of remembrance to all who serve.

Dedication of the “Never Forget Garden” at Hieronymus Park on Armed Forces Day, May 20th, 2023. From

Left to Right: Dorothy Rummel, Post 47 Auxiliary; Past Post 47 Commander Paul Rosenberg; Past Post 47 Commander Ruth Bizarro-Cook; Post 47 Commander Deborah Strickland; Hamilton City Mayor Dominic Submitted by Nancy Dezell, 2nd Vice Commander, American Legion Ravalli Post 47, Hamilton City Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf; Post 47 1st Vice Commander Larry Keogh; Post 47 Adjutant Greg Marose, Sr. Photo by Linsey Strickland.

RAISE: Ofcials consider ‘future proofng’ as fund outlet

federal grant will allow the city to look at whether, “it makes sense to have something other than a fourway stop.” Ramer says that the intersection did not meet the cost ratio for a roundabout at the location when MDT did the study, but that MDT did say that a roundabout could work. “No one solution is fixed,” said Ramer. Both Rohrbach and Ramer point out that many entities were pivotal in lending their names and support to the grant seeking effort. WGM in Missoula worked with the city on their first grant application, and Ravalli County, Montana Rail Link, Ravalli County Economic Development Authority, Bitterroot Health, elected officials and landowners all stood behind the application effort. Still, more public participation will be forthcoming.

“It does take time,” said Rohrbach, pointing out that it is important to manage expectations. “It is going to take years, but this grant is really going to help us come up with a project that is quality and set us up for the bigger grant dollars.” He and Ramer both said that many of the planning elements will take

into account the changing nature of transit in our country, including the expanding need for Electric Vehicles, Intelligent Transportation Systems, Smart Signaling and the utilities to serve them. They describe the planning effort as ‘future proofing’ the Marcus Street/Eastside Highway Corridor.

Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf expressed his appreciation of their efforts, saying, “I’m really proud of the city staff, the way they worked on this project and were awarded

for the future in a responsible way really makes projects like this make sense.”

An added feather in the caps of all city staff who worked on the fed -

Hamilton Mayor Dominic Farrenkopf, Public Works Director Donny Ramer and City Planner Matthew Rohrbach look over a portion of the map used to apply for the federal RAISE grant. The grant, representing over $870,000 in nomatch federal funds, was awarded to the city last month. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

eral grant application is that there are zero city funds required for a match. For the investment of their time, the City of Hamilton is bringing hundreds of thousands of federal dollars to the table for the improvement of Hamilton. And while City staff is aware that working with the USDOT and other entities to get the ball rolling may take time, the long term goal is worth the wait.

“It might take a few years,” said Rohrbach, “but in the end I think it’s going to be worth it.”

Thank yo!

We wold like to epress or heatfelt gatitude fo the oewhelming suppot we have received foloing Michael’s accident.

It is the cae and cocen of all of yo that has helped us stay stog and hoeful throghot this odeal.

We especially want to recognize all who helped oganize and vountee fo the “Hoedon fo the Hoells” and the “A2Z Pesonel Match” which wee so successful. The results wee tuly amazing and the sho of suppot was humbling!

Thee ae dozens of businesses and oganizatios, and hundreds of individuals that have cotibuted and thee is no way we can list eveyoe but please kno ho gateful we ae to all of yo.

We must recognize a few individuals:

Joan Prathe, Liz Cok, James Pickfod, Jean Schuman and the Hoedon Team

Jaime Devlin & the A2Z Pesonel Team

Biteot Health EMS & ER Staff

Dr. Erika Gabrecht & Staff of Proidence Saced Heat

Trauma Team & Staff of Proidence St. Paticks

Staff of The Living Cente

Biteot Sta Team

Biteot Health Check Team

Linda Kauffman & Family

David Kauffman & Family

Mike Prathe

We’ve always loed or local comunity and the cae and copassio of the peole is a big pat of why. We feel tuly blessed.

Sinceely,

& Family

Michael & Victoia Hoell

US 93 and Bitterroot Trail improvements beginning

The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) and Riverside Contracting Inc. will improve a section of US Highway 93 (US 93) and an adjacent section of the Bitterroot Trail in Ravalli County. The project begins a half mile north of the intersection with Bear Creek Road and extends approximately two miles north, ending south of Victor. Construction is anticipated to start mid-July and last approximately one week with striping to follow.

The project will resurface the existing roadway to enhance safety features, provide a smoother driving surface, and reduce longterm maintenance costs. Work includes crack seal, seal and cover (chip seal), fog seal, and new pavement markers. The Bitterroot Trail shareduse path will receive a crack seal and fog seal.

The chip sealing process will occur in two stages. The frst pass will chip seal the wheel ruts and a second pass will chip seal the full roadway. Roadway resurfacing is expected to last one week with fnal striping to follow. During roadway construction, trafc control will be in place with sin-

HOUSING: Housing Solutions to build

Continued from page 1

gle lane closures. Brief trafc delays should be expected.

The Bitterroot Trail will be closed during construction. Cyclists and pedestrians are advised to plan ahead and use alternate routes during the closure.

Due to the project’s location along US 93 in the Bitterroot Valley corridor, MDT is committed to working closely with the public and stakeholders throughout the construction process. Please drive safely through the work zone.

Workers are regularly working alongside the roadway. Trafc barriers are placed for the safety of drivers and workers. As you travel through the work zone, please slow down, pay attention to the road and other drivers, follow posted speed limits, and be on the lookout for construction workers. Highway patrol is actively patrolling the area.

For more information, please visit the project website at www. mdt.mt.gov/pubinvolve/ bearcreekroadnorth.

Comments, questions or concerns can be directed to Lori Warden, public information specialist, at lwarden@ upwardpr.com or by calling 406-360-2825.

responsible for distributing the funds. He said that Housing Solutions has been looking to do a project in Hamilton for several years, but the scarcity of land has made it difcult. With the option to purchase the property in hand, they have gone forward with application for the funds. Still, he explained, the process is highly competitive, with generally a one third success rate.

This ‘senior project’ that Housing Solutions seeks to build in Hamilton requires that public input be submitted along with their application to MBH. Tax credit awards will be announced in Late October, and Currence says that they feel confdent that they have a good project proposal.

“Using tax credits is the main way afordable

housing gets fnanced in our country,” he said, a sentiment that has been easily proven in the high cost of housing throughout the Bitterroot Valley in recent years.

Several members of the public stood to lend their support to the project, including Jim Morton, longtime Director of the Human Resource Council. Morton spoke highly of the Housing Solutions team, adding that they have done a great job listening to neighbors and build good, quality developments.

If Housing Solutions is successful in receiving the tax credit funds, they will begin a site plan and begin work with the City of Hamilton to prepare their development application for the City. Construction could begin in 2024.

What is a heat burst? ?

Answer: It is air that is forced downward in a thunderstorm and heated by compression.

Weather History

July 12, 1951 - Flooding in the Midwest claimed 41 lives, left 200 thousand persons homeless, and caused a billion dollars property damage. Kansas City was hardest hit. The central industrial district sustained 870 million dollars in property damage.

July 13, 1980 - Afternoon highs of 108 degrees at Memphis, Tenn., 108 degrees at Macon, Ga. and 105 degrees

West wind 2 to 13 mph. Thursday night, skies will be clear, overnight low of 52°. West southwest wind 5 to 13 mph.

Illustration of the proposed Riverstone Senior Residences for the City of Hamilton. Illustrations provided by Housing Solutions, LLC.

Lone Rock

Farmers Market

Every Saturday - June 3rd through Sept 28th, 4 to 7 p.m., Ambrose Creek Community Park, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Rd., Stevensville.

A special and unique market providing fresh, local produce, a variety of handmade goods, delicious food, baked goods, artisan products, new items regularly, park recreation, and scheduled family events nearly every week. Come check it out!

St. Mary’s Mission

tours

Historic St. Mary’s Mission is now open for tours. Take a full guided tour of the Historic Chapel, Chief Victor’s Cabin and Fr. Ravalli’s fully furnished cabin. Tours ofered from 11:00am2:00pm. Gift Shop, Museum and Gallery is open from 11:00am-3:00pm - Tue-Sat. 315 Charlos St. Stevensville, (406)777.5734.

Creamery Picnic

volunteer meeting

The Stevensville Civic Club is looking for volunteers to help out with the Creamery Picnic which takes place at the beginning of August. Help is needed for set up, kids games, beer garden, info booth and clean-up. Shifts will take place between August 3rd and 6th and are mostly in two-hour blocks. An informational meeting will be held Sunday, July 16 at 2 p.m. at the American Legion Hall, 754 Middle Burnt Fork Road, Stevensville. You can also fnd more information on the internet at stevensvillecivicclub.com or on the Creamery Picnic facebook page.

Rotary Club

On Monday, July 17, Rotary speaker will be Kristina Berger, Director of UM Bitterroot College. Rotary is an international service organization of over one million members that focuses its service and fnancial support on public health. Rotary meets Mondays at noon at BJs restaurant. Guests and prospective members are welcomed.

Women Newcomers Club

Are you new to the Bitterroot Valley? Perhaps you are recently retired? Or you have been living in the valley for quite some time but would like to meet new and interesting women? If so, the Bitterroot Womens Newcomers Club is for you! You are welcome to attend the next meeting on Thursday, July 13 at Aspen Grove Farm, 400 Quest Lane, Corvallis from 10 – noon. There will be a tour of the farm, along with picking if you so desire, and jam tasting. There is a small cost for picking and bring gloves/hat. A business meeting will follow - bring a folding chair. Please come and join this great group of women!

Health and wellness series

A free Health & Wellness Series with Dr. Cage is held on the 1st Thursday each month from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. New presentation on natural healing topics followed by questions and answers.

Website: drcagesays.org. RSVP 406-361-8073.

Emergency Preparedness Classes

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

is hosting free monthly Emergency Preparedness classes. They are held at 7 p.m. at the Church building located in Hamilton at 401 N. 8th Street. Upcoming topics of discussion include: July 13: “Can’t Use Your Stove?

Cooking With Alternative Methods Using the Cookers

We Assembled Earlier As Well As Other Methods”; August 10: “Water Bath Canning & Pressure Canning”; September 14: “Basic First Aid & Kits: What to Have and How To Use Them”. You can attend any or all classes.

Classes typically run 60-90 minutes. For the “Alternative Cooking Methods” classes, class size is too large to complete assembly in class, so sign ups will be made during class for items to be made/completed at a later date. Call 513-312-5494 with questions.

Lutheran VBS

Our Savior Lutheran Preschool of Stevensville announces that Vacation Bible School—VBS—is planned for July 16-21, with times running from 9 to 11:30 a.m. daily. Come about

15 minutes early on Monday morning to sort your children into classes and meet their teachers. The youngest eligible children should reach the age of four by September 10. There will be a class of age 4 through frst grade and another of children grades 2-5. Older children may assist with lessons and crafts if they wish. Call 777-5625 weekday mornings Monday-Thursday for more information.

The theme is “Unicorns and Dragons”—just for fun— at playtime. Our Savior VBS gets serious with the Word of God, but when it’s time to let loose, they go for all-out fun!

Our Savior, a member congregation of the Lutheran Church––Missouri Synod, is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road, south of Stevensville of the Eastside Highway.

Medicare 101 workshop

A Medicare 101 Education Workshop will be held at Marcus Daly Hospital - Ravalli Conference Room. There are 2 sessions: Sept. 14th and Nov. 28th, from 12 noon

to 2 p.m. There is no charge to attend. This is for anyone seeking knowledge about how Medicare works. Ideally, if you are turning 65, new to Medicare, getting ready to retire or already on Medicare but don’t really understand it - you should be there! Bring a friend!

Overview: Come to a Medicare workshop to talk about Medicare Parts A, B, C and D. What they cover and

Crossword Puzzle

Pickin’ and grinnin’ at Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival

by John Dowd

For 14 years both Mike Conroy, and his wife Tari, have been putting on the Hardtimes Bluegrass Festival. The weekend event usually draws nearly 1400 people, and will be at its newer location for the third year in a row.

Located again at the Heiland family ranch, it will be 10 miles south of Hamilton, right around the 37 mile marker, at 424 Forest Hill Road, Hamilton. Conroy wanted to express a huge thanks to Janice Heiland and her family for allowing the space to be used over the weekend for the festival. The Heilands are the owners and ranch managers of the space, and Ted Heiland cuts the grass and does a lot to keep it pretty for the event. According to Conroy. “They’ve

been so involved with putting this event on “ The event takes a lot of help, calling upon over 20 or 30 volunteers each year. In fact, Conroy cited his many friends as the reason the event can even be put on. “We have so many friends in the bluegrass family,” said Conroy.

President of the Montana Rockies Bluegrass Association, Conroy explained that though the event is not associated with that organization, they do have one they put on in Victor every spring.

Conroy said he was born and raised in the area and has always been into bluegrass and putting these events on. He and his wife started doing the Hardtimes festival in 2009. He explained that they work hard for six months to organize the festival. “Every year it seems

to have grown bigger and bigger!” said Conroy. When asked why they do it, Conroy said,“just because of our friends and the music.” He also expressed that after all the years, the festival has become “the way we’ve always dreamed.” The festival will take place July 21, 22 and 23. There will be food available for purchase, including barbecue, shaved ice, classic Americana dishes and more. This year, 13 bands will play, and the show will be opened by members of the Heiland family, including Ted, his sister Ramona Potter and her daughter, Rachel Potter. Johnny Campbell is back again from Nashville by popular demand, along with bands from Oregon, Montana and Idaho. Throughout the event, there will be a new band every 30 minutes, and the music starts at 5:45 p.m. on Friday, July 21. “We don’t really highlight bands, they are all good bands,” said Conroy. There will also be bluegrass

gospel on Sunday morning.

Admission for the weekend is available at the gate. For an adult it is $40, and $20 for children. A day pass for an adult for Friday/Saturday is $25 and $12 for kids. Sunday admission is $15 per adult and $7 for kids. Children 6 and under have free admission.

Camping is available, beginning Thursday, July 20 at 8 a.m., and first come, first served. Dry camping is $15 a night. According to Conroy, there are usually 150 campers. He also recommends people bring their own lawn chairs. The space will include numerous shade trees and a small irrigation stream running in front of the stage where kids like to play. In fact, Conroy expressed that the whole event is very family friendly, and there is no alcohol sold at the event.

More information can be found at hardtimesbluegrass.com, or by calling Conroy at (406) 821-3777.

The is Kentucky Sky band from Idaho Falls -at last year’s Festival, getting ready to go on stage. Courtesy Photo from Mike Conroy.

Stafng shortages plague the Town of Stevensville

by John Dowd

Having difculty with high turnover rates when it comes to staf, the Town of Stevensville plans to do something about it. According to employees at Stevensville Town Hall, they are going to be focusing more on salary increases, and fnding ways to keep people around. One of the top problem positions they mentioned was that of police ofcer. Although the Stevensville Police Department is currently fully stafed with three full-time ofcers, Mayor Steve Gibson explained that is the frst time in years and it may not stay that way for long.

According to Gibson, this comes down to the fact that ofcers can go anywhere, even within the county, and get paid more as an ofcer, often by even $5 or more per hour. Without a competitive salary, he explained that it is hard to keep people around.

Another problem is in the town’s public works department, which has also seen a lot of employees come and go. The town is already short stafed, having to manage two cemeteries, fve parks, water and sewer systems, a fre department, a police department, an airport, fnances, justice court, a pool, a splash pad, streets and much more with only 15 employees, some of whom are only part time.

Gibson mentioned that many of the staf need to wear multiple hats, taking on tasks that are “not in their job descriptions.” He commended his current staf, saying “The mayor only looks good if the people he works with look good.” He spoke about his ofce staf having to do all of the in-house cleaning, since there is no janitorial staf. “I just dont think people realize what all the people here do,” said Gibson.

Gibson himself, soon after taking ofce, docked his own salary by $4,000 a year to help with payroll, and he plans to do so again this year.

One solution to help increase payroll could come from the local Cannabis Tax. They plan to use this money for the police ofcer’s payroll. “Some of our salaries come out of our sewer fees,” said Gibson. In these he included the public works.

The town is still trying to suss out where the rest of the money will come from. However, they are working to keep it from hitting the current taxpayers. “There will always be growth,” said Gibson,” but the growth has to be done in a manner that doesn’t put the burden on the current residents.” He said this referring mostly to the wave of people moving in from out of town, and the burden that will then put on the current infrastructure.

Gibson spoke more on the need for competitive pay and infation, saying one of the better things working for town employees is the government benefts. “It’s a real beneft-beneft, and this is something I don’t think people realize,” added Gibson. He mentioned the town has health insurance, sick leave pay, retirement and much more. The town hopes to increase pay and bring more awareness of the benefts in order to draw in more employees.

Right now, the town is trying to hire two positions within public works, as well as a part-time police clerk and a part-time airport manager.

Once the town gets a new payroll budget together, they will then need to pass any suggestions by the town council. The council meets twice a month, the second and fourth Thursdays of each month at the town hall at 6 p.m. The public is invited and encouraged to come to the meetings, though they are also recorded and posted on the town’s Facebook page. Those videos are available when searching Town of Stevensville- Municipal Government on the popular social media site.

Gibson, and the other town employees, explained that they constantly work to keep up transparency. “That’s made a big diference for the public perception, to always be open with what we do at town hall,” said Town Clerk Jenelle Berthoud. She admitted, however, the recent council meetings have seen low citizen attendance.

For questions, concerns or more information about town council meetings, agenda items or meeting dates, times and policies, locals can call the town at (406) 777-5271.

Obituaries

Richard Dee Hoover

Richard Dee Hoover, 82, of Hamilton passed away of natural causes on Thursday, June 22 at Bitterroot Health - Daly Hospital, with his family at his side.

Richard was born on May 4, 1941 in Drumright, Oklahoma to John and Mary Hoover. Richard’s father worked in the oilfelds, and was drafted to serve in the U.S. Army during World War II. The family moved throughout the country following work opportunities, and were soon joined by Richard’s siblings Jim and Mary Ann. They eventually settled in Blackfoot, Idaho, where Richard graduated from Snake River High School in 1959. After High School, Richard attended Utah State University, earning a degree in Civil Engineering. He accepted a position with the Montana State Highway Department in 1964, where he was assigned to the construction of the segment of I-15 between Butte and Helena.

In January, 1965, Richard accepted a commission in the United States Air Force and began training as a pilot. He quickly became a skilled aviator, fying fghter aircraft. In 1967, he was assigned to the 366th Tactical Fighter Wing/480th Tactical Fighter Squadron, fying F-4 Phantoms at DaNang Air Base in Vietnam. Richard few 148 combat missions, 100 of which were over North Vietnam. He returned to the United States in October, 1967 and began training, fying F-102 and F-106 fghters.

Richard few the F-106 in Michigan, New York, California, and Florida, while serving in various leadership positions throughout this time. In 1972, he was assigned to the 4756th Combat Crew Training Squadron at Tyndall AFB, Florida as an instructor pilot and fight test ofcer on the F-106. On the morning of October 9, 1973, Captain Hoover was critically injured after he ordered ejection from an F-106B fghter at 2,000 feet, following a low-altitude engine failure. Although the ejection was successful for both he and his student, Richard’s parachute did not deploy and he fell to the ground.

Judy Kline

Judy Kline passed away of natural causes Friday, December 2nd, 2022 at her home in Stevensville, Montana at the age of 84.

Judy was born in 1938 in Estherville, Iowa to Oliver and Vera Shonkwiler. She grew up on the family farm with brother Bill and attended Estherville High School.

Judy married Basil Roberts and they had a daughter Debra Jo in 1956. Basil and Judy later divorced.

Judy became employed at Berkley and Company in Spirit Lake, Iowa as a secretary and was later promoted to advertising manager. At Berkley, Judy met the love of her life, Bob Kline, the company pilot. Bob and Judy moved to Montana and were married in 1975. They purchased a home, bunkhouse and acreage on the West Fork of the Bitterroot and built three guest cabins which became the Nez Perce Ranch. They catered to hunters and fy fshers, developing many loyal, repeat customers as well as lifelong friends. Judy was an excellent cook and Bob was an expert pilot and guide.

Death Notices

Maryellen Dawley

05/01/1943 - 07/04/2023

No memorial service.

Daniel L. Cassley

Florence - Daniel L. Cassley, 67, of Florence, passed away peacefully in the morning, Saturday, July 8, 2023 at home surrounded by his loving family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

‘Save our Pool’ campaign fund

Some Stevensville residents have started a fundraising campaign for the town swimming pool. Nancy Lowell and Leslie Tadvick are hoping that people will recognize the value of having a public pool and will donate to maintain and improve the pool.

“Our city pool, built in 1956, has seen better days,” said Lowell. “Anyone who grew up here has very fond memories of the pool. The town fathers back then built it to keep kids out of the river. The same applies today.”

The pool, located at Lewis & Clark Park, was built in 1956. Repairs to the pool have gotten more extensive and more costly in recent years. This year, the Town had to have the entire rim of the pool replaced, as well as the flter.

Donations can be dropped of at Farmers State Bank, 725 Main, in Stevensville. Checks should be made out to Jim Tadvick with “Save our pool” in the memo.

A subsequent investigation identifed faults with the manufacturing process, materials, and maintenance of the escape system as contributing factors to the failure of his parachute. Richard was initially treated at Tyndall AFB after the incident, and was transferred to the medical center at Keesler AFB in Biloxi, Mississippi the following day. It was there that he met his future wife, Julie Grever, who was among the nurses that cared for him during his time at the medical center. Richard was granted a medical retirement from the Air Force in February, 1974, and was transferred to the Spinal Cord Injury Service at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Long Beach, California for recovery and rehabilitation for the following two years. His injuries resulted in total paraplegia from his waist down, and being confned to a wheelchair throughout the rest of his life.

Richard and Julie married in Biloxi, Mississippi on August 23, 1975, and relocated to Tucson, Arizona. They started a family in the following years, welcoming their sons Erik, Kurt, and Karl. Richard left Tucson in 1993 following he and Julie’s divorce, and built a new home in Hamilton, Montana, where he resided until the time of his passing. One of his dreams came true in 2018, when his frst and only grandchild joined the family.

Richard was an active member of the Paralyzed Veterans of America for many years, continuously advocating for improving accessibility standards for all disabled persons and healthcare for disabled veterans. He held many positions within the organization, including National President, National Treasurer, Executive Director, and Editor of PVA Publications. He was also a member of the Victor Masonic Lodge #43.

Richard was an avid reader and enjoyed outdoor activities as well. He truly loved the Bitterroot Valley, and enjoyed the community of friends that he built over his time living in the Valley.

Richard is survived by his three sons, Erik and

wife Beth, grandson Lyle of Corvallis, Kurt and wife Sarah of Chattanooga, Tennessee, Karl and partner Julia of Corvallis, brother Jim and wife Shirley of Blackfoot, Idaho, and sister Mary Ann and husband Rudolph of Bali, Indonesia. He was predeceased by his former wife Julie, and parents, John and Mary.

Memorial services were held on Friday, July 28, 2023 at the Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton, with a reception immediately following. Private family interment will take place at the Corvallis Cemetery at a later date. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com

The family suggests that memorials be made to either the Partners Hope Foundation, PO Box 1262, Missoula, MT 59806 or the Bitter Root Humane Association, PO Box 57, Hamilton, MT 59840.

They sold the ranch in 1996 and set up shop on Kootenai Creek Road in Stevensville, Montana to develop their e-commerce marketing business. Bob Kline passed away in 2007 at the age of 91.

Judy is survived by her stepsons, Steve Kline, Superior, MT, Robert Kline Jr., Corpus Christi, TX, Dave Kline, Mitchell, SD; sister in law Deanna Shonkwiler, Estherville, IA; cousins Barb Lee, Kalispell, MT, Nancy Maitz (Larry), Chicago, IL, Chuck Shonkwiler (Niki), Hamilton, MT, DeAnn Evans, Newport Beach, CA, Tom Evans, (Betsy), Newport Beach, CA, Kay Carpenter (Del), Cedar Falls, IA; daughter Debra Duddley and husband Bob, Missoula, MT; grandsons, Wes (Alexandra) Dudley, Bozeman, MT, Alex (Fabienne) Dudley, and great granddaughters Amelie, Philine and Rosalie, Karlsruhe, Germany.

The family invites friends and extended family to join them at her memorial service, which will be held at the Bitterroot Valley Church of the Nazarene, 803 5th Ave.,Victor, MT on Saturday, July 22nd at 2 p.m.

American Legion recognizes students

by Nancy Dezell,

2nd Vice Commander, Ravalli Post 47, Hamilton

Students are often recognized for scholastic and athletic achievements, but the American Legion feels that our youth should also be recognized for good citizenship and character. Therefore since 1926, the American Legion has recognized students demonstrating good citizenship and character with

their School Awards Medal Program to help perpetuate leadership and the ideals of Americanism and engaged citizenship in our youth.

Recognition is given to local students in middle school and high school nominated by teachers and fellow students for exemplifying six character qualities – courage, patriotism, honor, scholarship, leadership and service. Greg Marose, Sr is the Ravalli Post 47 Adjutant and coordinator for the School Award Program.

The Post is proud to announce that the following students were recognized this year:

Commitment to Join Military Service (Certifcate):

Hamilton High School -- Kristofer R. Clark (Navy); Gavin A. Turner (Marines)

Darby High School -- Juliene Dean (Army); Lelend Schlapman (Air Force) School Award Medal Program (Certifcate and Medal depicting the 6 qualities):

Hamilton High School -- Sofa G. Lewanski; Gavin A. Turner Darby High School -- Maya A. Smith; Coltin Reagan

Hamilton Middle School -- Boedy Tadvick; Aleigha Child Darby Middle School -- Tanner Shavers; Hadley Heiland

Congratulations and thank you to these amazing students for serving as role model citizens; we look forward to your future contributions to our country. Contact Greg Marose, Sr for more info on the School Award Medal Program or visit https://www.legion. org/youth/90765/school-award-medal-programyouth

Ravalli Post 47, Hamilton, Commander Deb Strickland presented an American Legion School Award Medal and Certifcate to Darby Middle School Students Hadley Heiland and Tanner Shavers. Congratulations. (Photo by Mrs Shavers)

Pale whenever-they-hatch duns and other mayfies

I remember when I was asked the question: “What, exactly, is the diference between a pale morning dun and a pale evening dun?”

I had no ready answer that didn’t dig too deeply into the Latin names and scientifc classifcation of mayfies. They all look about the same and you can usually fsh the same fy patterns for both.

Some are a pale olive and some are more tannish; many anglers tend to call them all PMD’s.

The pale evening dun species tend to be a bit lighter and paler than their AM counterparts, but that’s about it. On the Bitterroot there is more than one specie that might hatch at the appointed time, morning or evening.

For most of our fshing the pale yellow or light tan mayfy patterns will do. The important thing is to get as close as you can in size and color to the fies you see the trout taking. Carry and plan to use #14, #16, and #18 fies. Other things to consider

by Chuck Stranahan

And then we get some mayfies that might hatch in the afternoon and into the evening. There are diferences, to be sure, but worrying about them can cause us to ignore other things that are more important.

“On this river we get ‘em all,” I answered, after giving myself a pause to think, added, “Pale morning duns, pale evening duns, pale mid-afternoon duns, and pale whenever-they-hatch duns.”

We laughed and then I went on to explain that most of the pale-whenever fies we see through the middle of the summer have bodies that are either a delicate yellow, more of a very pale yellowish olive, or a very light tannish shade. Later on we might get some smaller evening fies that are a cream-colored and afternoon-evening fies that show a pinkish shade of tan in the body. And there will be some that show a shade best described as creamy orange.

From there, concentrate on other things: Is my leader tippet long enough and fne enough to let my fy drift naturally for four seconds or more? Did I check to make sure my hook is sharp, and did I sharpen it if needed? Did I pinch the barb?

Next:

Did I crunch gravel or push a wake in my approach? And once there, am I putting a shadow – even a line shadow when I cast – over the fsh? Does my silhouette break the horizon within the trout’s range of vision?

It’s too easy to change fies several times and wind up with the right fy on a tippet that’s too short – and spoil your chances.

Many anglers ignore the hook point. They never check it, and it costs them fsh. See if it wants to penetrate rather than scratch your thumbnail. If not, sharpen it. Your strike ratio will go way, way up – especially on those bony-mouthed bigger trout – when you develop the habit of keeping the

hook sharp. This is especially true with small fies – like PMD’s.

Take some time to look

Before I start to fsh or go for a fy change, I like to take it all in – I like to feel the temperature of the day against my face, listen for birds, squirrels, or whatever else might be around, look at the sky and fgure what I might see later in the day for weather, and if there are fsh rising, see what they’re on.

That’s the beauty of a pale morning dun hatch: there are usually plenty of fies around if there’s a decent hatch, and you’ll see rising fsh.

At that point I like to take a moment more, and try to see exact-

ly what the trout rising to, and how they’re taking it. If I see a fy drifting into the place where I saw rise, does it look like a little sailboat on the water and did the trout take it? If so, I can strap on a parachute-style or comparadun dry fy with an upright wing.

If the fies are visibly struggling to get free from their nymphal shucks I’ll fsh a pattern that rides half-in and half-out of the water. If a rising trout shows only his back and dorsal fn and not his head, I’ll fsh an unweighted nymph just below the surface.

Pay attention to how the fsh are taking before you pick a fy. Then, concentrate on getting the cast in. That’s how you’ll catch more fsh.

Is genus and specie, or other factors more important to the trout? Photo by Chuck Stranahan.

Local bank provides fnancial literacy resources

TrailWest Bank is bringing financial literacy education to students and residents in Montana counties. Students at 16 schools and the surrounding community have free access to Banzai, an award-winning online program and content library that allows users to practice real-world finance from the safety of their home or classroom using any internet-enabled device. At a time when a solid foundation of practical financial knowledge is critical, these resources will make a huge impact on users.

Through the Banzai online courses, students try out managing a budget, saving for a goal, and

dealing with unexpected financial pitfalls. Teachers are able to easily monitor and grade student progress remotely. Other resources, which include articles, calculators, and personalizable Coach sessions, explain everything from the basics of filing your taxes to how health insurance works. These resources are available at trailwest.teachbanzai. com/wellness.

“Thanks to TrailWest Bank, area students will now have access to a wide array of courses and resources designed to help prepare them for our increasingly complex world,” says Morgan Vandagriff, co-founder of Banzai. “We wouldn’t be able to

DRIVER: bus driver faces multiple felonies

Continued from page 1

driver’s seat and continued to drive, after which she picked up more students and continued down the road. The charging documents mention that there were at least two children under the age of 14 and 10 children of 14 years or older present during the initial impacts. She picked up an additional 11 children throughout the morning before fnally being pulled over by a state trooper.

The defendant admitted that the children on the bus requested that she stop, but she refused to do so. Sessions also admitted to taking anti-anxiety medication of an unknown variety as well as aspirin. After performing the sobriety test on Sessions, the trooper determined that Sessions was in fact under the infuence of drugs or alcohol. Sessions showed difculties with balance, perception and coordination. Blood samples were taken and Sessions was taken into custody. Sessions had her initial appearance for preliminary procedures on Wednesday, May 24, in Ravalli County Justice Court. Since then, her case has been moved up to District Court, under Judge Howard Recht.

Sessions has been charged with 10 felony counts of criminal child endangerment, one felony count of criminal endangerment, one count of misdemeanor driving under the infuence of alcohol and/or drugs and one misdemeanor count of failure to give notice of a crash.

provide these tools without their support.”

TrailWest Bank is working with Banzai to build financial literacy in the community by investing time, money, industry experience, and a variety of bank resources. Now, they’re taking their commitment to education a step further. Through their help, students have access to Banzai learning tools, virtual or in-classroom presentations from a TrailWest Bank expert, and even class visits to a branch to see it all in person.

Banzai resources are used by over 100,000 teachers across the U.S. These educational tools align

with Montana’s state curriculum requirements, making the program a fun way for students to gain vital skills and an ideal way for anyone in the community to increase their financial literacy. After finishing the Banzai courses, users will know how to track where their money is and what it’s for, recognize financial trade-offs, and plan for a financially sound future.

Teachers interested in using Banzai can visit trailwest.teachbanzai.com or call 888-8-BANZAI.

For more information about Banzai visit banzai.org

For more information about TrailWest Bank visit trailwest.bank.

Fire danger level raised to moderate

Fire danger on the Bitterroot National Forest was raised from “Low” to “Moderate” on July 4, 2023.

The current ridge of high pressure and near to above average temperatures are expected to continue through the week with a chance of scattered showers and thunderstorms with the potential of lightning again this weekend.

Fuels are starting to dry and firefighters are asking for the public’s help in preventing hu -

man caused wildfires. Never leave a campfire unattended and make sure your coals are cool to the touch before you leave.

DROWN,STIR and FEEL.

When fire danger is “moderate,” fires can start from most accidental causes, but the number of fires is usually low. If a fire starts in open, dry grassland, it will burn and spread quickly on windy days. Most wood fires spread slowly to moderately and are often easy to control.

There are no fire restrictions at this time. To stay updated, visit https://www.mtfireinfo.org/pages/restrictions.

Those planning camping trips should follow these fire safety tips: Keep campfires small, and completely extinguish them before leaving camp. The best method is to douse the fire with water, stir the ashes and douse again, making sure that all ashes are cold to the touch. It is illegal to have unattended campfires.

FWP to use drought restriction criteria

Last year, the Fish and Wildlife Commission approved an amendment to the “hoot owl” rule that directs fshing restrictions during drought. The amendment allowed Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks to implement restrictions in designated reaches of Montana streams according to the Statewide Fisheries Management Plan. The Statewide Fisheries Management Plan is scheduled to be fnalized later this fall after public review and comment this summer. Given this timeline, hoot owl restrictions this summer will continue to be implemented as they were in past years. Hoot owl restrictions

prohibit fshing between 2 p.m. and midnight on drought-impacted streams until conditions improve.

There are four criteria FWP biologists consider for setting hoot owl restrictions:

- Species of interest are present in signifcant number

- Temperature criteria have been met

- Fishing pressure is high

- Stream fow conditions

These restrictions are designed to protect fsh that become more susceptible to stress, disease and mortality when low and warm wa-

ter conditions exist. Anglers can help reduce stress for fsh by following these practices when catching and releasing fsh, though fsh mortality may still occur:

- Fish during the coolest times of day, where permitted

- Land the fsh quickly

- Keep the fsh in water as much as possible

- Remove the hook gently; using artifcial lures with single and barbless hooks can make hook removal faster and easier

- Let the fsh recover before gently releasing it

VWildland FireFighters Fire shelter, New generation, $500. (406) 360-7367

RESTROOM TRAILER. Deluxe. Two stations, custom inside and out. A/C and heat, 300 gallon waste tank, LED lights, highest quality. Brand new from factory $30,000. 406-2536327.

Corrine Campbell, Physical Therapy/ Myofascial Release, 406-777-2679. Elizabeth Harper-Schurman, Counseling, Coaching, Hypnotherapy. 406-3042517. 5501 Hwy 93N, Ste. 101, Florence, MT.

HARLOW’S SCHOOL

BUS SERVICE transports the country’s most precious cargo, and they want you to join them at their community picnic - Wednesday, July 19th from 4pm to 8pm - at the Stevensville High School.

OPEN TO ALL - So come down and join Harlow’s as they celebrate fun, family and food, and win some great prizes.

learning design that provides a space for children with a variety of learning and thinking styles. Join us for an informational meeting on July 17th, 2023 at 7pm.

DISH NETWORK: Only from Dish- 3 year TV Price Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Inludes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone. Switch and get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-855995-3572.

DONATING YOUR VEHICLE? Get more! Free towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $300 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-855-9012620.

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, nSurvivor Benefts, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus ofer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today! 1-866-585-6456

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5Gand 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation, and data plans up to 300 GB. Call 855-419-7978

Are you looking for something diferent for your child’s education?

Is a traditional setting not meeting your student’s needs? ENROLLMENT

IS NOW OPEN!!! Visit bitterrootheritageacademy. org Bitterroot Heritage Academy is a K-8 private, Christian school with a non-traditional, experiential

SWITCH AND SAVE up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with fexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time ofer - get $50 of on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more informa-

tion, call 1-877-324-0193

CASH for old clothes, Woman’s & Men’s (406) 381-7186

HELP NEEDED - room and board plus a stipend if you can live in and help care for my Dad. If anyone can do it part-time, we will consider that too. Please

call John at 406-360-9885.

DANIELS COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE, seeking to hire Deputy Sherif. For information or application stop at the Sherif’s Ofce at 106 Railroad Ave E, Scobey, call

Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County

In the Matter of the Name

Change of Amy Lynn Elliott, Amy Lynn Elliott, Petitioner. Cause No.: DV-41-20230000214-NC

Dept. 2 NOTICE OF HEARING

ON NAME CHANGE

This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Amy Lynn Elliott, to Amy Lynn Kuebler. The hearing will be on August 3, 2023 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the courthouse in Ravalli County.

DATED this 22nd day of June, 2023.

/s/ Paige Trautwein Clerk of District Court

By: Kimberly Provence Deputy Clerk of Court BS 6-28, 7-5, 7-12, 7-1923.

LEGAL NOTICE

Rashelle Brushia, Notice is now given, that, pursuant to the provisions of MC 70-6601, et seq, and the contract you signed, the contents of your storage unit number 1 is now subject to operator’s lien.

Unless the accrued balance is paid in full before noon Friday, July 14, 2023 the contents will be sold at MT93STORAGE, Victor, MT 59875, at 2pm Saturday, July 15, 2023. BS 7-12-23.

LEGAL NOTICE

Luke Lambert, Notice is now given, that, pursuant to the provisions of MC 70-6-601, et seq, and the contract you signed, the contents of your storage unit number 49 is now subject to operator’s lien. Unless the accrued balance is paid in full before noon Friday, July 14, 2023 the contents will be sold at MT93 Storage, Victor, MT 59875, at 2pm Saturday, July 15, 2023. BS 7-12-23.

Naomi J. Cheeney CHEENEY LAW, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840

Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal

ESTATE OF ANNA RUTH PARKS, Deceased. Case No.: DP-23-82 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 frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Danny J. Parks, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court.

DATED this 7th day of July 2023. /s/ Danny J. Parks, Personal Representative BS 7-12, 7-19, 7-26-23.

BID DISPOSAL Stevensville School District has disposal items available for bid. If you have questions about the items available, please contact Greg at 406777-5481x352 or Kaleb at 406-777-5481x351. Sealed bids will be accepted in the District Ofce until 4:00 p.m., Wednesday, July 26, 2023. Please

PUBLIC NOTICE Public Meeting to provide information about the S&W Sawmill Facility in Darby, MT. Tuesday, July 18th, 2023 Darby Community Clubhouse 106 North Main Street Darby, Montana 6:00 p.m. BS 7-12-23.

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s Southwest Land Ofce Hamilton Unit is