Friday, August 2nd
3 pm - 10 pm
Main Street
Kids Parade ● 6 pm
Shōdown ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Lewis & Clark Park
Tightline ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Saturday, August 3rd
9 am - 10 pm
Main Street
Grand Parade ● 11 am (line up starts at 9 am at Stevi High)
Lewis & Clark Park
406 ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Local Brewery: Blacksmith Brewing Company
by John Dowd
By far the biggest and more recognized event of the year in Ravalli County must be the county fair. However, the fairgrounds that hosts this huge event has a lot of other things going on. In fact, there may be much more to the fairgrounds than most people are aware. According to Melissa Saville, the fairgrounds manager, she was excited that the fairgrounds was recently recognized for all the work they have been doing over the years.
This year the Ravalli County Fairgrounds was recognized by the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce with the Economic Development Award. The award was presented during the Bitterroot Chamber of Commerce banquet in May.
“We have been so busy bringing in new events and promoting new events to come here,” said Saville. She believes that has a lot to do with the recognition. The eforts of Saville and her staf have brought in numerous new events over the last few years. According to Saville, this increased activity directly overfows into local hotels, restaurants, stores and the general community.
To quantify all they have been doing, Saville noted that last year, they booked 46 out of the 52 weekends, not including all the events during weekdays, and their calendar currently has bookings out fve years. They host events like the fair, gun shows, craft shows and markets, art shows, concerts, rodeos, conventions, organization banquets and much more. They do this for organizations like Bitterroot Building Industry Association, Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association and other conservation groups, local businesses and anyone else, big or small, looking for an event venue. According to Saville, the fairgrounds team is “just trying to take advantage of this awesome property.”
A lot of what they do is possible with help from the Ravalli County Fairgrounds Foundation. This relatively new organization helps fund extra projects, such as the new gazebo, which the county is unable to fund on
its own. One future project they have in mind, possibly to be installed by next year, are year-round bathrooms. Saville hopes this would further promote more of-season events. They are constantly looking at new ways to bring business and events to the area. When she does book events, they are planning on doing more advertising and promotion to grow event popularity.
“We just want to let people know that we are an asset that is underused,” added Saville. “People just think about us as ‘the fair’,” but they can do so much more, she said.
Though they do charge for events because there is an upkeep cost, but the building rentals have very reasonable pricing, said Saville, especially for the event industry. They want to increase the popularity of hosting things like weddings, and to become a more afordable option for people, yet to give them a great location.
“We just have a lot of ways of being able to help people,” said Saville.
Another thing Saville wanted to let the community and interested parties know regards their updated alcohol policy. According to Saville, many people may not be aware that they now can have alcohol on the premises. There is an urban myth that in the original deed from the Daly family, there was a statement prohibiting alcohol. The myth further expresses that Daly gave the land to the county.
However, neither of these statements are true. There is nothing in the deed mentioning anything about alcohol, and the county bought the property. In fact, the issue came down to a county ordinance. According to Saville, since the adoption of a recent new county ordinance, the fairgrounds has a policy that alcohol now can be served, unless it interferes with the fairgrounds’ family-friendly atmosphere. No alcohol will be allowed 14 days before or after the county fair.
Since the new policy took efect in July, the only limiting factor regarding serving alcohol on the premises is licensing. In order for an event to sell and serve alcohol in the fairgrounds,
the organizing body or servers will be required to obtain appropriate licensing and permits.
This update in alcohol policy is important, because one major detractor during summer events has been the fact that many of the buildings in the fairgrounds are without air conditioning, meaning they get extremely hot during the summer. This is also the time of year when many people would like to have a cool and refreshing alcoholic beverage. Now that events can be held out of buildings and alcohol can be served, Saville hopes more event sponsors will consider the fairgrounds. She said the former policy had been a detriment to some events in the past, because the event organizers wanted to pair food with alcohol. Now they can.
With these changes, the fairgrounds can now host a further variety of events anywhere on the property, which Saville
hopes will be a boon for the fairgrounds, drawing more interested group events. All of this trickles down to the local economy and brings more money and business to the area, said Saville.
When asked her thoughts on the recent Chamber award, Saville said, “This is just another tool in our toolbox to ofer events.” She also said that it “shows that the employees are going above and beyond.”
To learn more about the fairgrounds and the opportunities there, interested parties can visit the organization website, www.rcfair.org. There, a calendar of events can be found. The fairgrounds also has a Facebook with a brand new live podcast about things going on at the grounds.
For more information about the Ravalli County Fairgrounds Foundation, parties can visit their website, www. ravallicountyfairgroundsfoundation.org.
The Stevensville Masonic Lodge #28 cordially invites the community to a pancake breakfast at the Masonic Lodge on Saturday, August 3, during the Stevensville Creamery Picnic Weekend. The lodge is located at 300 Church Street in Stevensville. The Masons will serve breakfast from 7 a.m. until 11 a.m. The cost is $10.00 ($5.00 for children 11 and under).
Breakfast will include cofee and juice, pancakes, bacon, and scrambled eggs.
The Masons will use 100% of the proceeds from the pancake breakfast to support the purchase of bicycles and Kindles as awards for the annual Montana Masonic Foundation (MMF) sponsored reading achievement programs at Florence, Lone Rock, and Stevensville Elementary Schools. Last year the Stevensville Masonic Lodge donated 24 bicycles and 16 Kindles as achievement awards
for these reading programs.
The MMF also supports Montana schools through an Educational Grant Program that is designed to provide teachers, student aides, and principals in Montana’s public schools an opportunity to apply for a grant to assist under-funded programs in the following areas: Music, Drama, Science, and Library.
The MMF’s Educational Grant Program is intended to help with needs in areas that are not typically addressed in district general budgets, or areas of student enhancement or learning that have sufered cut-backs, or are experiencing start-up concerns. This year the Stevensville Masonic Lodge awarded a $5000 grant on behalf of the MMF to the Florence-Carlton High School Art Department.
Big Wheels Sponsors: Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, Valley BMX, Biterrodders Car Club
Full fshing closure on stretch of Madison below Ennis Dam
A full angling closure and two new hoot-owl restrictions will go into efect on additional sections of the Madison River in southwest Montana. The full closure will go into efect at midnight tonight. The hoot-owl restrictions go into efect at 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 18.
Hoot-owl restrictions prohibit fshing from 2 p.m. to midnight each day. These closures and restrictions, which are due to warming temperatures and low fows, will stay in efect until conditions improve.
Full closure takes efect at midnight tonight on the Madison River: From Madison Dam at Ennis Res-
ervoir on the lower Madison to the footbridge at NorthWestern Energy powerhouse
Hoot-owl restrictions take efect Thursday, July 18, include:
From the footbridge at NorthWestern Energy powerhouse to the confuence with the Jeferson River
From the Yellowstone National Park boundary to Hebgen Reservoir
Hoot-owl restrictions remain in efect for portions of the Beaverhead, Big Hole, Blackfoot, Clark Fork, East Gallatin, Gallatin, Madison, Ruby and Sun rivers, as well as the Bitterroot, Jeferson and Silver Bow Creek in their entirety.
FWP’s drought policy provides for angling restrictions when fows drop
below critical levels for fsh, when water quality is diminished or when maximum daily water temperatures reach at least 73 degrees for three consecutive days. Water temperatures of 77 degrees or more can be lethal to trout.
These restrictions are designed to protect fsh that become more susceptible to disease and mortality when conditions like this exist. One shortterm strategy to address heat-induced stress in Montana’s wild trout is to reduce catch-and-release mortality by alerting anglers to fsh only in the morning.
Anglers can reduce stress on fsh at all times of the year by getting fsh to the net or in hand quickly, keeping
them in the water and reviving them prior to releasing them back into the river. If high temperatures and extremely low fows persist, anglers may want to consider fshing areas with less stressful temperatures and conditions, such as larger lakes or reservoirs, or higher elevation waterbodies.
Along with monitoring stream temperatures, FWP also monitors stream fows and in some streams holds instream fow water rights. FWP’s water program can issue a call on junior water users, when appropriate, to contribute to stream fows through the late summer and early fall.
Photo of Mike and Tari Conroy, second and third from left, on their way with some friends to the hardTimes Bluegrass festival. The festival will take place July 26, 27 and 28. It will be located at the Heiland family ranch, 10 miles south of Hamilton, at about the 37 mile marker, at 424 Forest Hill Road, Hamilton. There will be food available for purchase and no alcohol will be sold at the event. Camping will be available, beginning Thursday, July 25 at 8 a.m. Dry camping is $15 a night. Admission for the weekend is available at the gate. Adults are $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. The music starts at 5:45 p.m. on Friday, July 26. More information can be found at hardtimesbluegrass.com, or by calling Conroy at (406) 821-3777.
Continued from page 1
The following acts are prohibited on the National Forest System (NFS) lands in the Bitterroot National Forest until further notice:
• Building, maintaining, attending, or using a fre, campfre or stove fre.
• Smoking, except within an enclosed vehicle or building, a developed recreation site, or while stopped in an area at least three feet in diameter that is barren or closed of all fammable materials.
• Welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open fame.
• Operating an Internal Combustion Engine.
Exemptions:
The following persons are exempt from this Order:
• Persons with Forest Service Permit (Permit for Use of Roads, Trails, or Areas Restricted by Regulation or Order), specifically exempting them from this Order or a written determination by a Forest Service authorized ofcer that a permit is not required. If such authorization provides for operation of an Internal Combustion Engine or welding or operating an acetylene or other torch with open fame, such acts are prohibited from the hours of 1:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. each day. Outside of these hours, a one-
hour foot patrol in the work area is required following cessation of these activities.
• Persons using a device solely fueled by liquid petroleum or LPG fuels that can be turned on and of. Such devices can only be used in an area that is barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding fammable materials within three feet of the device.
Freya ● Female ● 5yrs
Freyja was found wondering the harsh Texas Oil Fields where she was abandoned as a young dog. When her people found her, she was so grateful that she stayed right by their side, even off leash. Freyja is affectionate, athletic, and curious, and once she gets to know you, she will be your very best friend! Unfortunately, Freyja is not good with cats or chickens, as she has a strong prey drive and that is the only reason why she is with us.
• Operating generators with an approved spark arresting device within an enclosed vehicle or building or in an area that is barren or cleared of all overhead and surrounding fammable materials within three feet of the generator.
• Operating motorized vehicles on designated roads and trails, unless such road or trail is otherwise closed or restricted.
• Emergency repair of public utilities and railroads.
• Any Federal, State, or Local Ofcer, or member of an organized rescue or frefghting service in the performance of an ofcial duty.
More information regarding this Order may be obtained at the Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor’s Ofce in Hamilton, MT, 406-363-7100. This Order supersedes any previous Orders prohibiting the same or similar acts in the same described area.
For a digital version of this Order and map, please visit, https://www.fs.usda.gov/ alerts/bitterroot/alerts-notices
“With our current conditions and predicted weather, we all need to do everything we can to prevent additional wildfres from starting,” said Matthew H. Young, Deputy Fire Staf Ofcer. “We are asking the public to recreate responsibly and adhere to these restrictions.”
For the latest air quality information visit deq.mt.gov.air and airnow.gov.
For more information about fres in Montana and other fres across the country, visithttp://inciweb.nwcg.gov
Walk-in doors - Vinyl composite frames Fiber glass doors - Doors in stock (Colors Available) Dealer for United Windows
Garage Doors
Biden’s presidency opened the borders to approximately 18 million illegal aliens. Some were in prisons, some from mental institutions, some are murderers, rapists, gang members, some are from terrorist lands, some are Chinese men of military age, some are cartel men who are imprisoning women and young girls for prostitution in the United States. Cartel men are smuggling drugs including fentanyl which kills 100,000 Americans a year. Rapist killing and crimes by illegals is happening increasingly. The person actually running the country – who is he? All this to defy the Constitution! Can you call all this righteous? I call it evil!
The infation which the person running the country caused by trillions of dollars being printed and spent and by shutting down our oil industry which was ready to start being sold overseas under President Trump. We still have abundant oil and natural gas and coal underground, unused by the U.S.
Are you proud of our schools teaching our kids to hate with the critical race theory and allowing drag queens to promote their lifestyle to young kids who are vulnerable?
Are you proud of our universities teaching young men and women to hate America and to hate the Jews?
Are you proud of the mainstream media’s hiding the fact that our supposed president is and has been sufering from dementia all these years. Deception? Lying? Scandal?
Are you proud of Merrick Garland’s (Department of Injustice) continued persecution of President Donald Trump, continued by the DNC and Hillary Clinton and the deep state since he decided to run in 2015 and by the real person that is actually running the country?
This is corruption of the DNC, the media, the FBI, DOJ, CIA, the deep state. Corruption is evil in my evaluation. It is time to vote out the corrupt ones. Vote for Trump! Make America Great Again!
Richard Parker Stevensville
our Montana
You may have heard that a group called Montanans Securing Reproductive Rights (MSRR) has been working to put a ballot measure called CI-128 on the November ballot. MSRR claims that this is what Montanans want, and that they’ve collected more than enough signatures to put CI-128 on the ballot. However, some questions remain.
First, if Montanans really want this, then why is there so much out-of-state money and efort involved? In a recent article, News Nation Now reports that, “Planned Parenthood will spend $40 million ahead of November’s elections to bolster President Joe Biden and leading congressional Democrats. It will initially target eight states: Arizona, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, North Carolina, Montana, New Hampshire and New York.” You read that right – FORTY MILLION DOLLARS!
Now, it seems to me, if Montanans really wanted this, Planned Parenthood wouldn’t need to spend such an exorbitant amount of money to back this measure. Why, if Montanans really wanted this, wouldn’t we be voting favorably on this measure without fnancial outlay? One must also ask, why does Planned Parenthood have 40 million dollars, anyway? They receive government subsidy by way of our tax dollars…to put toward political activism? Really? And they
want us to believe this is all for women’s healthcare?
If that’s not enough, Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker has also contributed substantially. According to the Commissioner of Political Practices’ records, he’s contributed $500,000. That’s right, as an Axios article reports, Gov. Pritzker is self-funding this efort by funneling the funds through his group Think Big America. Wait…he’s not a Montanan! What good reason does the Governor of Illinois have to donate a half a million dollars to back a pro-abortion ballot measure in Montana? A better question may be, do Montanans want Illinois politics determining Montana laws, and changing Montana culture?
There are other major contributors from out-of-state, in addition to the Governor of Illinois and Planned Parenthood’s political arm. Elizabeth Simmons of Atherton, California has contributed $100,000, and a Barbara Simons of San Francisco, California added $50,000 to the cause. Individuals from other blue areas, such as Seattle and Maryland, have added funds as well. Speaking of funds, their funds are being raised by a group out of Wisconsin, called Path to Victory. Path to Victory’s website claims that they’ve run campaigns in Iowa, Kansas, and Wisconsin. Tell me again… how is this Montanan? Where are the Montanans? If this is truly a Montana issue, then why aren’t Montanans the major players and contributors?
It all comes down to this: if Montanans don’t want out-of-staters pushing their culture down our throats, they need to vote NO on CI-128, if it goes to the ballot in November. If passed, this ballot measure would enshrine taxpayer-funded abortion without limits in our Montana state Constitution. It would also remove parents’ rights to know about – and approve or disapprove of – their minor child’s abortion. CI-128 would also bring a new normal to sex trafcking, by allowing trafckers to bring their victims in for abortions without question. Additionally, painful, late-term dismemberment abortions would be legalized, right up until the moment of birth. Finally – this is touted as the “Women’s Rights Petition,” but if this passes, women who are injured during their abortions will lose their right to legal recourse. This is especially troubling, considering that many women now travel for their abortions, and Montana is quickly becoming an “abortion tourism” state. Being surrounded by conservative states that don’t allow abortion near as much as Montana, we would actually be putting many women in jeopardy.
Montanans don’t want out-of-state money taking away their parental rights. Montanans don’t want their tax money paying to rip babies apart and kill them. Montanans don’t want their culture manipulated by out-of-state money. If you don’t want California, Illinois, Wisconsin, or Maryland to change our Montana way of life, vote NO on CI-128. Robin Sertell, Chair Montanans for Life
Political parties like people need to be careful what they wish for. The Trump party was successful overturning Roe vs Wade making abortions illegal and focusing public and media attention on Joe Biden’s age. Their success has sucked the media attention from Trump, focused public attention on the positive character qualities inherent in Biden’s withdrawal,
left Trump the oldest nominated presidential candidate in history running against potential candidate Harris 20 years younger. Trump is now the only word fumbling elder in the race. The only presidential candidate without the character to accept his 2020 election defeat in addition to being responsible for overturning Roe vs Wade. 62% of Americans say abortion should be legal in all or most cases. (https://www.pewresearch.org/politics/2022/07/06/majority-of-public-disapproves-of-supreme-courts-decision-tooverturn-roe-v-wade/)
It is the responsibility of the American voter to make the right decision in November.
Archie Thomas Merry Schrumpf Corvallis
We’ve written previously about your fundamental Right to Know and how it provides all Montanans with an important way to interact with our state and local governments: you have a Right to Know how your government makes decisions, spends money, and conducts its business, and you can get that information by simply asking the most relevant state or local agency (and we’d love to help you do so!). Much of the time, Montanans can make requests and receive information with no personal cost.
However, because of the “fees” that agencies can impose to restrict your Right to Know, the government may be emboldened to restrict your Right because it knows that your only recourse for a denied request is to spend thousands of dollars to sue the agency that denied the request in court.
Information request denials can happen for legitimate reasons. Perhaps the information isn’t ripe for public disclosure under the Right to Know because the needs of individual privacy outweigh the merits of public disclosure. But information can also be incorrectly denied. State agencies can reject requests due to a good-faith mis-balancing between individual privacy and the public’s Right to Know. Agencies could also reject requests to hide information from public disclosure—which is exactly what this Right is meant to prevent.
In either case where the state incorrectly denies a request, the only recourse available to you is to sue the agency in court. That could cost you tens of thousands of dollars. At the end of the case, if you win a judge will order the agency to produce the information you requested. But the judge won’t necessarily order the state to pay your attorney’s fees, and most Montanans can’t aford those fees for an information request.
But there are solutions to this problem. A simple, one line bill passed by the legislature and signed by the governor could mandate that the state agency which denied your request pay your attorney’s fees if a court fnds the agency violated your constitutional Right to Know.
Requiring the state to pay attorney’s fees when it loses a Right to Know case has several benefts. First and foremost, citizens whose Right to Know was violated by the state will have their request fulflled at no additional monetary cost to them. The state would also be more reluctant to deny requests, out of fear of not only paying their own attorneys (whom they are paying anyways) but also paying for the citizen’s attorney. The
benefts would further encourage the atmosphere of openness in government that the Right to Know was designed to create.
There are other ways to address the attorney’s fees problem. In one such solution, the state could create a judicial position designated to review Right to Know requests that have been denied. Your information request denial could be reviewed by an administrative law judge at no cost to you. If you disagree with that judge, you could seek further recourse in court.
We believe that the Right to Know is essential to democracy in Montana, to prevent the secret conduct of government and to increase the government’s responsiveness to citizens. Unfortunately, if costly litigation remains the only way to remedy a violation of the Right, it is impossible for most Montanans to fully realize their Right to Know. Fortunately, we can demand better from our government and encourage simple, necessary changes to the Right to Know to ensure that citizens can understand how our money is being spent, how decisions are being made, and how the government conducts the business of our state.
Visit our website at montanatransparencyproject.org. If you have questions, comments, column topics you’d like us to address, or if you want to submit your own information request, contact us at info@montanatransparencyproject.org and we would be happy to help!
Jacob Linfesty Montana Transparency Project
Our Democratic friends are actually staging a political coup. A coup to undo a democratic and legal process which made Biden their Presidential candidate. Millions of voters chose old sleepy Joe. Now they want to ignore that vote and seek a diferent candidate. They have all sorts of ideas and I suggest the answer is simple and in keeping with how our President usually works. Just slip him a million or so and he will resign. It’s refreshing to witness their desperate scheming. After all, they constantly preach to us about democracy. If conservatives were up to these shenanigans, the demo left would be going ape.This may all be done by the time this little missive is published. If so, I hope all conservative voters enjoyed the comedy. Talk about reaping what one sows!
Ed Sperry Col USAF (ret) Stevensville
A Course of Love study group
Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Center for Spiritual Life, Hamilton Call: 406-381-6480
Florence American Legion
Florence American Legion Post
134 is having a free pancake breakfast on the frst Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Hall.
Yoga for Veterans
FREE to veterans, frst responders, and their families! Tuesdays, 1-2pm at the American Legion Post 94 in Stevensville Register at: redwillowlearning.org OR call 406-530-7175. Come see us on 1st Friday in May ‘bout 1800 for more info! We’ll be in front of Active Care Wellness on Main in Stevensville.
MS Support Group
Bitterroot MS Support Group meets every 3rd Thursday of the month in the Gallery room at the Cofee Cup Cafe in Hamilton, 500 S 1st Street, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Have a slice of pie, dinner, or just come to chat with others about living with Multiple Sclerosis. This is a positive and uplifting group that holds open discussions, and the occasional guest speaker. Find more information at www.nationalmssociety.org or contact Jackie Peterson, (970)518-293, jackierpeterson@gmail. com
Bitterroot Celtic Society
The Bitterroot Celtic Society meets every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton. The Bitterroot Celtic Society is a passionate group of volunteers, dedicated to keeping the Celtic culture, heritage, and history alive in the Bitterroot Valley. Their biggest event is the Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering, held every third weekend in August at the Historic Daly Mansion. They also host a Burns’ Night supper, St. Andrew’s, St. Patrick’s, and Tartan day events. The BCS is a non-proft organization. The public, new members, and the curious are always welcome to attend. For any time changes or additional committee meeting info, follow their Facebook page for updates.
Hamilton school board
Governance Committee Meeting
Thursday – August 8, 2024
12:00 p.m. – District Ofce Confer-
addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube.
Agenda
1. Call to Order / Roll Call
2. Pledge of Allegiance
3. Public Comment
4. Discussion and Consideration of Prioritizing District Needs and the Tuition Fund Levy Amount for Fiscal Year 2025 (Information/Action)
5. Closing You are encouraged to join the meeting at:https://www.youtube.
com/@HSD3Boardmtg
Governance Committee Meeting
Thursday – August 8, 2024
12:00 p.m. – District Ofce Conference Room
The Committee will be conducting this meeting with live participation.
Regular Board Meeting/Final Budget Hearing
Tuesday – August 13, 2024
6:30 p.m. – District Ofce – Conference Room
The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at:https://www.youtube. com/@HSD3Boardmtg
NV Library events
Indian Epic Literature - Thur. July 25 at 6:30pm
Explore the incredible worlds of India’s greatest epics, the Mahābhārata and the Rāmāyaṇa. Revered in Hinduism, these Sanskrit texts of ancient India are full of wisdom, thrilling adventures, and depicts situations that are remarkably relevant today, thousands of years later. Zoom option available.
Science Squad for Ages 8-12 –Wed. July 31 at 2:30pm
Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural world. Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, experiments, and more. Registration required.
Meditation for Busy People - Thur. Aug 1 at 6pm
Back by popular demand! Learn to be more mindful, present, and resilient to the ups and downs of the day during this practical introduction to meditation with Martha Piersma. Learn techniques you can practice anytime, anywhere, sitting up, walking, and even with your eyes open. You will learn practices to help lay the foundation for a successful
advanced; any interested individuals are encouraged to attend. To keep abreast of activities, visit the Bitterroot Quilters Guild on Facebook.
St. Paul’s yard sale
A Multi-Family Yard Sale and Bake Sale will be held Saturday, July 27th from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, 600 S 3rd St in Hamilton. Proceeds will be used for repairs and upkeep of the historic church. Questions? Leave a message at 406-363-3025. Come fnd treasures and enjoy a treat!
BRHA ‘2nd Time Around’ Jewelry Sale
Back by popular demand! The Bitter Root Humane Association thought last year was the end of its very popular jewelry sale but the people have spoken! Generous donations, positive word of mouth and a great cool, calm and central location during Bitterroot Days are all the reasons that BRHA is doing this sale one more time.
Whether you’re looking for a classic vintage look or new glam designs, the Bitter Root Humane Association’s “2nd Time Around Jewelry Sale” has what you’re looking for and more! BRHA invites you to attend on Saturday, July 27th at the Hamilton City Hall-Bedford Building, 223 S. 2nd Street, Hamilton, 10am to 2pm for this fantastic, much awaited sale.
Donations from generous supporters include all forms of jewelry including vintage delights, precious gems, beautiful costume bling along with other jewelry related items, jewelry boxes, clocks and accessories. If you’re looking for wearable baubles, beautiful gifts or items to repurpose, this event is for you with treasures for everyone.
Did you know that the Bitter Root Humane Association has been serving our community for 50 years? All proceeds from the sale will go towards helping BRHA continue to care for all the homeless pets that come through its doors. Come see one of the reasons why the BRHA won “Bitterroot’s Best” non-proft for 2024!
NVL Brews for Books
A Brews for Books pint night fundraiser is planned for Aug. 13 and will beneft the North Valley Public Library in Stevensville. It is scheduled from 5:30 to 8 p.m. at Wildwood Brewery, 4018 U.S. Hwy. 93 North. During this fundraiser, a portion of every sale will beneft the library. This
at Whitetail Golf Course in Stevensville. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Also included are a catered lunch, awards, and a silent auction. Cost is $200 for each team of four. The cost to sponsor a hole is $300. Registration forms are available at the golf course, 4295 Wild Fowl Lane, and the North Valley Public Library, 208 Main St. To sponsor a hole, donate an item, or for more information, contact Donna Bainbridge at (406) 370-4563 or dbridge@montana.com or Jody Torrey at jodymarietorrey@gmail.com or (406) 274-8454.
Birdies for Books is presented by the NVPL Foundation and Friends of the Library. Both organizations raise funds to support the North Valley Public Library.
Driver safety class
Bitterroot Health (formerly Marcus Daly Hospital), located at 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton, is hosting an ALL NEW AARP Driver Safety Course on Friday, July 26 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This new safe driving course is designed for drivers age 50 and over; all drivers are welcome. The new program features updates of laws specifc to Montana, defensive driving, winter driving, and new vehicle technologies, to name a few. Class size is limited; pre-registration is advised. There are no tests or written exams and Montana mandates insurance discounts for qualifed drivers. Certifcates are good for three years. Class fee: $20.00 for AARP members; $25.00 for non-members. For class sign up, call Jones Korman Insurance at: 406-363-6583. For further information, call Thom Ainsworth, Instructor, at 406-369-0149.
Children ages 4 (fully potty-trained, please) through 12 are invited to Vacation Bible School at Our Savior Lutheran Church and Preschool in Stevensville July 29-August 2, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. (Please come at 8:45 on Monday only to register.) This free week-long program includes snacks, crafts, games, songs, puppet shows, ninja, samurai (Oh, shh! let’s surprise them with the ninja and samurai!). Bible verses and stories about Biblical characters who acted like ninja and samurai teach us about how we can understand God and have faith in His Word and promises.
Bible school students as well as past students of the preschool are invited to ride Our Savior’s foat in the Creamery Picnic parade on August 3. Call the church ofce at 406-777-5625 to RSVP and save a place on the foat. Our Savior Lutheran Church is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road. Proceed roughly 1.5 miles south of the Burnt Fork Market on the Eastside Highway. Turn east onto Pine Hollow. Cross the tracks and the canal. The church will be on your left, marked by three crosses.
‘Wonders of Hot Water’ Lecture Series
The rich variety of hot springs around the world will be the subject of a series of weekly lectures at Lolo Hot Springs Resort. The lectures will be held every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. through August 20.
Jef Birkby, a hot springs book author and geothermal energy consultant, will bring to life stories of frontier hot springs resorts and the modern uses of hot water for geothermal energy projects. Birkby’s lively talk and historical photos illuminate the geology, biology, social history, curative properties, and ways we use the power and heat of the earth. The lectures are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to soak in the hot springs and enjoy dinner at the resort prior to the lectures. Lecture topics and schedule: Tuesday, July 30 -
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
The Bitterroot Red Sox 10u baseball team won the Montana State Western tournament on Sunday, July 14th in Stevensville for the second consecutive year. This win qualifed them for the Pacifc Northwest Regional baseball tournament in Eugene, Oregon this weekend.
The Bitterroot Red Sox 10u team is made up of 12 all-stars from the communities of Stevensville, Corvallis, Hamilton, and Darby.
This summer, they have played in
local and regional tournaments and have compiled a 32-3 record going into regionals. Last year’s team went 32-5 and took 3rd in regionals.
“We have a very phenomenal group of Bitterroot Valley kids on this year’s team,” said Jef Hakki, the team’s head coach. “They have a great shot to make it far this weekend.”
Since their state victory on July 14th, the kids have been busy raising funds to pay for the trip to Oregon. This fundraising includes family do-
nations and business donations. They also had a big rafe with prizes that included a round of golf at the Stock Farm, a rife, local meat, and box seats at a Griz game.
“It was all about getting the kids set up to play baseball in Oregon,” said Hakki. “Our community is awesome, they were so generous last year, and once again they have been very generous this year.“
The team left on Tuesday, July 23rd for Oregon. The Pacifc North-
west Regional Tournament consists of two pools, with teams from the Northwest. The top two teams from each pool advance to the semifnals. The regional winner qualifes for the Cal Ripken World Series, which is held in Crown Point, Indiana on August 8-18.
“We have a real shot at making it into the fnal four in regional and making a run at the title,” said Hakki. “This is a great group of kids - I like our chances!”
The annual McCarthy Basketball Camps completed their 2024 summer camps on July 18th in Stevensville. The McCarthy Camps, run by Frank McCarthy, are one of the most popular in the Bitterroot Valley and this year they were held in four locations: in Darby and Hamilton in June, then Florence and Stevensville in July.
“The camps were a great success this year,” said McCarthy. “We expanded to four locations this year because people in these communities kept requesting we do a camp in their town. Everyone was very appreciative and thankful for the camps.” McCarthy began coaching basketball in Australia, then in 1979 he coached at the St. Labre Indian School. Next he went to Powell High School for six years, then to Eastern Wyoming College, then he coached MSU-Billings for 10 years, MSU Bozeman for two years, then spent 16 years at Sheridan College in Wyoming. He fnally settled in the Bitterroot Valley where he has coached 7th & 8th grade boys in Hamilton.
McCarthy wants his campers to come away with better basketball skills, but it is also important to him that they learn valuable life skills as well.
Campers practice basketball fundamentals like shooting, passing, jump stops, defense, and rebounding.
They also learn the importance of looking
someone in the eye, making a good handshake, and having good manners. They learn the importance of having a good attitude, practicing gratitude, and pursuing your goals and dreams.
McCarthy is quick to credit others for the success of the camp. He is grateful to his long list of sponsors, as well as to all the coaches. The McCa -
rthy Camps are a family afair. McCarthy’s wife Amy helps along with their three children: Taylor, Jake and Luke. McCarthy also recruits local high school players to help, and don’t be surprised if an NBA player shows up, as former NBA player and Bitterroot Valley regenerative farmer Mike Doleac helps out with the camp when he can.
The Knights of Columbus Councils 6130 in Hamilton and 13093 in Stevensville would like to congratulate three participants from the Bitterroot Valley who were crowned state champions for their age division in the Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship.
The winners were: Carter Monaco in the 9 year old boys division; Isadora Neal in the 11 year old girls division; and Braxton Kennedy in the 12 year old boys division.
These individuals received a trophy and certifcate in recognition of their accomplishment.
by Sarah Glass
Amid Daly Days festivities in Hamilton on Saturday, July 27th, the Bitter Root Humane Association (BRHA) will host its 2nd Time Around Jewelry Sale to beneft local animals still waiting to fnd their forever homes. Sue McCormick, a longtime volunteer and former board member of the organization, met with the Bitterroot Star ahead of the event to view donated items to be resold.
Last year’s event was to be the fnal 2nd Time Around Jewelry Sale, but it “is back by popular demand.” For just a few dollars apiece, patrons can take home jewelry sets, watches, grab bags, or crafter’s kits.
“People come in early, and they just clean us out…,” said McCormick, and “a lot of [the jewelry]
goes to crafters because they come and fnd things to take apart.”
The BRHA is more than a “no-kill, no time limit shelter.” It serves all of Ravalli County, providing a community pet pantry and pet memorial spaces, selling pet microchips and identifcation tags, and doubling as an emergency hub for displaced residents and their pets during natural emergencies like fres. The organization’s updated and expanded facility – reopened to the public in 2021 – now boasts signifcantly more space and features kennels that give animals access to outdoor pens.
BRHA has been the temporary residence to various types of animals, not just dogs and cats, said McCormick. During her time with the non-proft, she has seen tortoises and even an alligator come through the doors. A small barn and corral on the property make it possible to shelter horses or farm animals as well.
At last year’s 2nd Time Around Jewelry Sale, the BRHA reportedly raised about $5,000. Operating costs run about $1,500 a day. According to the organization’s website, it receives no “ongoing taxpayer funding” but “depends on the generosity of our community to keep the doors open.”
The highly anticipated jewelry sale benefting the BRHA will take place at the Bedford Building on 223 S. 2nd Street between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. on July 27th. “Donations from our generous supporters include all forms of jewelry,” said Michele
Craig, BRHA board member, “including vintage delights, precious gems, and beautiful costume bling along with other jewelry-related items like jewelry boxes, clocks, and accessories. If you’re looking for wearable baubles, beautiful gifts, or items to repurpose, this event is for you with treasures for everyone!”
To search for treasures of the fuzzy kind, the BRHA is open Monday through Friday from 1 to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 12 noon to 5 p.m.
This summer there is plenty of adventure for kids and families right here in the valley! Agents of Discovery is an augmented reality app where players complete missions in participating parks, historic sites, and forested wildland areas. Using the Agents of Discovery app, downloadable for free at your app store, “Bitterroot Explorer” players can play outdoor missions, discover fun activities and challenges, explore, admire, and enjoy our amazing landscapes. And there are prizes! The more missions a player completes, the more prizes they can enter to win.
Bitterroot Health is excited to be
one of many local entities supporting the “Explore the Bitterroot” program, specifcally because of its “hidden” health benefts. Bitterroot Health continually looks at data about the health and well-being of this community.
“Health care is moving away from ‘fxing what’s wrong’ and is becoming more about prevention, about helping patients thrive and stay healthy so they can enjoy their lives to the fullest,” said Christina Voyles, Senior Director of Marketing for Bitterroot Health.
Data from the past few years has resulted in bringing new specialties to
the valley and building the new facilities (Oncology & Infusion Center, Stevensville Clinic, and a Dialysis Center coming next year). Another clear indicator from this data is about improving health by getting folks away from their TV and computer screens to move more, get outside, and spend time with family and friends.
“Supporting this amazing program, encouraging our community to visit areas to play, socialize, have fun, de-stress, and enjoy the beauty of our area, is aligned with our values of helping people live their best lives,” Voyles said.
The “Bitterroot Explorer” missions
began the frst week of July and will run until September 2nd.Players can go at their own pace or join one of the scheduled mission dates where Agents will be available to help: July 27, 11am - 3pm, at Fort Owen State Park, with Agent Jack July 27, 11am - 3pm , at Historic St. Mary’s Mission, with Agent Tomasso July 27, 3pm - 7pm, at Hieronymus Park, with Agent Smokey the Bear For more information, visit https://agentsofdiscovery.com/ bitterroot-explorer/ or email info@ brcht.org
Your Future Begins Here ~ Join the Lucky Friday Team!
Your Future Begins Here ~ Join the Lucky Friday Team! We are currently accepting applications for Diesel Mechanic
We are currently accepting applications for Diesel Mechanic
JOB DUTIES include: performing routine and non-routine maintenance activities; perform hour-based service on mobile equipment. Troubleshoot, repair and maintain all of the site’s mobile equipment used in an underground and surface mining environment. Equipment includes (but is not limited to), drills, bolters, haul trucks, graders, dozers, tractors, light vehicles, forklifts etc.
JOB DUTIES include: performing routine and non-routine maintenance activities; perform hour-based service on mobile equipment. Troubleshoot, repair and maintain all of the site’s mobile equipment used in an underground mining environment. Equipment includes (but is not limited to), drills, bolters, haul trucks, graders, dozers, tractors, light vehicles, forklifts etc.
QUALIFICATIONS include:
QUALIFICATIONS include:
High School graduate or equivalent. Associates Degree or Certifcate in Automotive or Diesel Technology preferred.
High School graduate or equivalent. Associates Degree or Certifcate in Automotive or Diesel Technology preferred.
Previous heavy equipment maintenance experience preferred. Previous experience in an underground hardrock mine setting preferred but not mandatory.
Previous heavy equipment maintenance experience preferred. Previous experience in an underground hardrock mine setting preferred but not mandatory.
ABOUT HECLA MINING COMPANY AND THE LUCKY FRIDAY MINE
ABOUT HECLA MINING COMPANY AND THE LUCKY FRIDAY MINE
Hecla Mining Company (NYSE:HL) produces more than 40 percent of all silver in the United States with operating mines in Alaska (Greens Creek), Idaho (Lucky Friday), and Quebec, Canada (Casa Berardi) the Company owns a number of exploration properties and pre-development projects in world-class silver and gold mining districts throughout North America.
Hecla Mining Company (NYSE:HL) produces more than 40 percent of all silver in the United States with operating mines in Alaska (Greens Creek), Idaho (Lucky Friday), and Quebec, Canada (Casa Berardi) the Company owns a number of exploration properties and predevelopment projects in world-class silver and gold mining districts throughout North America.
Established in 1891, Hecla is headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and has a sister ofce in Vancouver, B.C. The Company’s common stock has been traded on the New York Stock Exchange for over 50 years.
Established in 1891, Hecla is headquartered in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, and has a sister offce in Vancouver, B.C. The Company’s common stock has been traded on the New York Stock Exchange for over 50 years.
Lucky Friday is a deep underground silver, lead, and zinc mine located in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District in northern Idaho. The mine began operating in 1942 and celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2022. Lucky Friday is located one mile east of Mullan, Idaho, and is adjacent to U.S. Interstate 90.
Lucky Friday is a deep underground silver, lead, and zinc mine located in the Coeur d’Alene Mining District in northern Idaho. The mine began operating in 1942 and celebrated its 80th anniversary in 2022. Lucky Friday is located one mile east of Mullan, Idaho, and is adjacent to U.S. Interstate 90.
Hecla Limited, Lucky Friday Mine is pleased to ofer competitive compensation commensurate with education and experience, and a comprehensive benefts program.
Hecla Limited, Lucky Friday Mine is pleased to offer competitive compensation commensurate with education and experience, and a comprehensive benefts program.
Interested candidates must possess or be able to obtain authorization to work in the United States. Visit our website at www.hecla.com to apply or for more information about Hecla and the Lucky Friday Mine. Hecla Limited, Lucky Friday Mine is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Interested candidates must possess or be able to obtain authorization to work in the United States. Visit www.hecla.com to apply and for more information about Hecla and the Lucky Friday Mine. Visit our website at www.hecla.com for more information about Hecla and the Lucky Friday Mine. Hecla Limited, Lucky Friday Mine is an Equal Opportunity Employer
Edith Lucille Wark, 92, of Stevensville passed away Saturday, July 20, 2024 at the Living Centre in Stevensville. She was born May 7, 1932 in Stevensville, the only child of Samuel and Millie (Daniel) Weigand.
Edith lived in the Bitterroot Valley her entire life. She married Don R. Wark, Sr. in Stevensville on September 24, 1949. Together they resided
Jo Ann was born in Enid, Oklahoma on January 7, 1937 to Benson and Ruth Jack. While a young child she contracted rheumatic fever. She remembered getting goats milk and meat stamps from neighbors during the war. Spending time with her grandmother and out at her Uncle Jess’ farm playing with her cousins were fond memories. During her high school years, she worked as a lifeguard and met Jim Whitlock whom she would later marry on July 19, 1957 in Enid.
They would move to Carson City, Nevada so that Jim could fnish his time with the Marine Corps and she worked at an air force base. In November of 1958 they moved to Hamilton, Montana. They lived in a small duplex on Marcus, moving to a farm house north of Corvallis, then moving to the house on 3rd Street where they would live until 2024.
Jo Ann enjoyed the mountains on a daily basis. She loved spending time hiking, camping, picnicking, skiing, and sewing. One of her favorite spots to picnic or camp was up Blodgett Canyon. When the kids were young the family would spend winter weekends at Lost Trail Ski Area in the old patrol shack. Summers would bring the annual camping trip at Horse Creek Hot Springs.
Jo Ann started working part-time at the Ravalli County Federal Credit Union in 1966. In 1971 she became the treasurer/manager, a position she held until her retirement in 2000. She took the credit
Lloyd J. Oster, 76, of Corvallis passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Thursday, July 18, 2024. He was born in Williston, ND on May 29, 1948 the son of John and Katherine Oster, one of seven children.
Lloyd was raised and educated in Victor and he married his high school sweetheart, Carol Dobberstein, in February of 1968. He served in the U.S. Army from April of 1968 until April of 1970, earning two Purple Hearts while serving in Vietnam. After his discharge from the Army he attended Western Montana College, earning his Bachelor’s degree in Industrial Arts.
Lloyd taught shop class at Frenchtown schools for two years. The remainder of his life he spent self-employed, farming and ranching, construction, and whatever was necessary to survive in the Bitterroot Valley. Lloyd enjoyed hunting and fishing with family and friends and loved to play the fiddle and guitar with anyone who was willing.
Lloyd was preceded in death by his parents,
Barbara Jeanne Herr
Hamilton - Barbara Jeanne Herr (94) died Sunday afternoon, July 21, with her loving husband (Don) of 69 years at her side. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family. at www. brothersmortuary.com
on the Weigand family ranch all their 47 years of marriage, until Don passed away in 1995. Their three children also grew up on the ranch.
Edith was also preceded in death by her oldest son, Don Wark, Jr. She is survived by her son and his wife, Jim and Merridee Wark of Boise, ID; her daughter, Lori Wark Park and husband Bruce of Stevensville; five grandchildren,
union from a one room ofce located in Rocky Mountain Labs, to a $10 million, multi-person operation at the time of her retirement. She was the Montana Credit Union Person of the Year, a board member of the Treasure State Corporate Credit Union, also serving as chairperson. She went to Washington D.C. and participated in a rally to support the credit union movement. She spent three summers attending school at the Credit Union National Association school in Madison, Wisconsin to further her knowledge as a treasurer/manager.
She was also a participant in the KEEP (Kellogg Extension Education Program) which later turned into the MLDA group (Montana Leadership Development Association) for over 50 years. Her involvement in her community included serving as a Girl Scout leader, an election judge and chief election judge. She also had an open-door policy to members new to the community or in need in the community. We often had new/old friends at Christmas breakfast, a Whitlock tradition. Jo Ann was also very involved with the Hamilton Players Inc., serving on their board of directors, costume designer, stage manager, house manager, and bookkeeper.
She was a long-time member of the United Methodist American Baptist Federated Church. She was involved in women’s groups, served as a Sunday school teacher and served on the board.
Jo Ann was preceded in death by her husband
one brother, one sister, one nephew, and his inlaws. He is survived by his beautiful wife, Carol, of Corvallis; his daughter, Michel of Fairfield; his son, Ryan and wife Heather of Stevensville; five grandchildren, Robert Schmidt and wife Desiree of Missoula, Hunter Green of Missoula, Shayla Redman of Great Falls, Victoria Redman of Dillon and Trapper Oster of Stevensville; one great-granddaughter, Brooklyn Schmidt; and siblings, Ken, Carol, Allen and Clark.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, July 31, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. at the Daly-Leach Chapel with Full Military Honors. There will be a reception in the funeral home’s community room following the Honors. Burial will take place at the Victor Cemetery.
Lloyd’s passion was his grandchildren and Proverbs 17:6 was a verse he cherished: “Children’s children are the crown of old men, and the glory of children are their fathers.”
The family suggests that memorials be made to Operation Christmas Child (www.samari -
William Allan Sisson
Hamilton - William Allan Sisson died Saturday morning, July 20, at the age of 82. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family. at www. brothersmortuary.com
Cori, Jenna, Lacie, Travis and Dustin; and four great-grandchildren, Clayton, Brooke, Isaac and TJ. At Edith’s request, no viewing or public services will be held. She will be laid to rest next to her husband at Riverside Cemetery in Stevensville. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.
James J. Whitlock, son Bryan Wayne Whitlock, brother John Jack, grandson Allen Jack Dickerson. She is survived by daughter Trudy Dickerson, grandson Matthew Dickerson (Tara), and their three children; grandsons Ely Whitlock (Taylor) and two sons, and Riley Whitlock; son Randy Whitlock, granddaughters Sierra
A celebration of life service will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024 at the United Methodist American Baptist Church in Hamilton. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com
tanspurse.org). Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.
Kelly Brough Kelly Brough, 59, of Hamilton passed away at Community Medical Center on 7/16/24 after a long illness. She is survived by her husband Wayne. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family. at www.brothersmortuary.com
Anybody reading this column who is old enough to be a Gordon Lightfoot fan might recognize the title of this column from one of his songs.
Like many of you, and without going into the reasons why, I could use a summertime dream about now; over the next few days I might get one. I’m taking a grandson and his friend camping and fshing. They’re wonderful kids – and at that barely-teen age when the world comes alive with things to wonder at while they’re still young enough to see it all fresh, all new.
onslaught of boat and angler trafc that plagued other areas.
Chad is a natural instructor.
by Chuck Stranahan
We’ll fsh in the morning and we’ll come back to camp when the day heats up and sit in the shade and tie fies. We might do a day hike into the wilderness and take our fy rods along – and try to catch some of those resplendently-colored redbelly cut
Between Chad’s incessant reminders - “Mend – mend now! Gotta mend!” - and knowing which fies to fsh, Nate picked up the sport quickly and caught his share of around ffty fsh for the day – some in the eighteen inch range. You could call it a summertime dream trip.
Another boy, Ryan, had turned thirteen the summer I met him. He was a quiet and bright kid who reminded me of my older son Jay.
Ryan’s mom emailed me before their family time in the Bitterroot, asking about an evening hatch wade trip for her son. The evening hatch trip suited her budget and
would be a special gift for Ryan.
Ryan is a student of the game. When I asked if he could tie a standard clinch knot to attach his fy, he responded, “Yes, but a Palomar is stronger.”
“Bingo!” I thought. This kid’s got it.
We went to the fy bins and I selected a half-dozen fies and said, “Happy birthday, Ryan.” He must have said “Thank you” a half-dozen times before he left the shop.
Chris Rockhold had met the family – mom, dad, and all six kids –on a chance visit to the shop before Ryan’s scheduled evening hatch wade trip.
“The water’s a little high, and wade spots are kind of limited right now,” Chris mused. “I think I’ll foat ‘em.” That’s Chris - he wanted to do something special for Ryan. The launch and load, extra efort behind the oars and shuttle outlay were his gifts to Ryan. And it all paid of.
That evening the sun left the sky in a show of glory as Ryan caught several nice fsh on dry fies, the best a thrilling nineteen-incher – a summertime dream fsh.
Some summertime dreams are unanticipated. Jan and I found one after a hard-pounding rainstorm.
She usually took reading breaks in her hammock. On this day she read a couple of chapters with her book propped up on the steering wheel while I sat in the passenger’s seat and tied a batch of fies in my lap.
When the rain stopped, we stepped into the brilliance of a rainwashed forest with wet needles on trees still glistening and the air fresh with scents of pine and ozone; it was as if we had stepped into a dream.
The fshing, for a few minutes, was exciting, then dwindled of. But it didn’t matter.
Sometimes, to quote Dana Lamb, the fshing’s only part of it.
“We are also hoping to involve local landowners in these areas,” said Langum.
Langum said that one aspect of stream restoration they were looking at closely was improving ground water storage by slowing down the fow of streams as they move through the watershed, allowing more water to seep into the aquifer rather than simply running of. This benefts late summer fows when streams begin drying up as this stored groundwater makes its way back to the surface. It means not only more water in late summer but cooler water.
The key to making these alterations lies in analyzing the existing natural processes at work in each drainage and doing what they can to enhance those processes. It may mean placement of large woody debris in the streams, for instance. She said they have a lot of tools in the tool box to accomplish this.
One way stream fows are naturally slowed down is by beaver dams. She said the Forest Service is using a new computer modeling program called the Beaver Restoration and Assessment Tool (BRAT). The BRAT model helps build realistic expectations about what beaver dam-building may achieve locally on a given stream, and also helps scale-up those expectations at the watershed level. BRAT model outputs can be used to initialize restoration and conservation planning and can also support initial conceptual design and siting of specifc restoration actions. BRAT model outputs can also aid with expectation management, and conservation and restoration prioritization.
Langum said that she has seen the success of building these “beaver analogues” in attracting beavers to an area on other forests.
“These analogues are not meant to be long term,” said Langum. “They are installed just to get things started.”
Another major concern in relation to fsh habitat is the buildup of sediment in stream beds. This is another naturally occurring process, but too much sediment can obstruct natural stream fows and destroy fsheries. Part of their work focuses upon improving the infrastructure that may be making signifcant contributions of sediment to the streams. This may involve upgrading existing culverts that may be obstructing fsh movements. It may mean road work to improve drainage by containing and directing fows, or it may mean decommissioning roads or moving them away from the streams.
The aquatic team is also looking at restoration eforts aimed at mitigating the negative impacts of large, intense
catastrophic wildfres which can burn so hot that the soil is sterilized, greatly impeding the forest’s ability to recover naturally from a wildfre.
“This mainly involves pro-active management aimed at reducing the potential for catastrophic fres,” said Langum. It involves thinning overstocked areas and using planned burns and creating shaded fuel breaks. Planting trees in burned areas is another tool in the box as well as planting willows, snowberry, alder and dogwood to revegetate riparian areas.
According to Langum, the need for such restoration eforts is particularly high on this forest due to the number and severity of some of the fres over that last several years. She points to the Tolan Creek drainage which they are currently focusing on. The impacts following that burn have been “devastating,” she said. Large areas have been denuded and the soil sterilized, leading to large landslides dumping tons of sediment into the stream. They are working to stabilize those areas.
“It won’t come back in our lifetime,” said Langum, “but we are doing what we can to speed up the process.”
Nolan Platt, a hydrologist on the aquatic team, said that temperature data from streams across the forest over the last 30 years show that the water on the forest is growing warmer across the board. He hopes by contin-
ued and expanded monitoring to be able to assess the results of the kind of restoration work they are planning. He is optimistic.
“Ideally, with a lot of proactive work, we will not have another Tolan,” said Platt. “By being proactive and reducing the chances of catastrophic fres, by enhancing the chances and the speed for natural recovery through restoration work, we can make a difference.”
Bitterroot National Forest “Aquatic Team” members are Fisheries Biologist Chris Craft, Forest Natural Resource Specialist Anna Fearon, Forestry Technician Doug Platt, Hydrologist Zach Trainor, Fisheries and Watershed Program Manager Brandy Langum, Fisheries Biologist Marael Leslie, Forestry Technician Ben Hays, Forestry Technician Nathan Olson, Fisheries Biologist Ben Armstrong and Hydrologist Nolan Platt.
Langum is leading her team of 11 specialists in planning and implementing major restoration projects across the forest. Langum, who started work last November, arrived with 17 years of experience as a fsheries biologist in Oregon, most recently working on the Siuslaw National Forest in the Coastal Range of Oregon and prior to that on the Willamette and Malheur forests. Prior to that she worked for the Fish and Wildlife Department in the state of California.
“I’m excited to be here and to have such an experienced team to work with as we build upon the past eforts at watershed improvement here in the Bitterroot,” said Langum. She said she plans to work closely with the established organizations in the valley that are already partnering with the forest and invites anyone interested to join in the common efort at improving and enhancing the local watersheds.
YARD SALE, 9-3
Friday/Saturday 7/26 and 7/27: Antiques, yard items, lady/boys clothes, area rug, tent.
YARD SALE - 511 West River Road, Hamilton. July 26-27, 9-4. Household, guns, archery, knives, tools, drone and more.
FRESH EGGS from Howell’s Happy Hens are back! $4.00/doz. Pick up at Bitterroot Star ofce, 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108, Stevensville.
Get DISH Satellite TV + Internet! Free Install, Free HD-DVR Upgrade, 80,000 On-Demand Movies, Plus Limited Time Up To $600 In Gift Cards. Call Today! 1-855-995-3572
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 oferget $50 of on any new account. Use code GIFT50.
For more information, call 1-877-324-0193
JMS Energy is a leader in innovative energy solutions shaping the future of sustainable power. We are hiring a Payroll Manager with a strong background in payroll operations and team management. The ideal candidate will be responsible for efciency in payroll processing and compliance. Interested candidates are invited to send a resume to terridt@ jmsenergy.net.
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.
Get your deduction ahead of the year-end! Donate your car, truck, or SUV to assist the blind and visually impaired. Arrange a swift, no-cost vehicle pickup and secure a generous year-end tax credit. Call Heritage for the Blind Today at 1-855- 901-2620 today!
Portable Oxygen Concentrator May Be Covered by Medicare! Reclaim independence and mobility with the compact design and long-lasting battery of Inogen One. Free information kit! Call 855-762-1508
Safe Step. North America’s #1 Walk-In Tub. Comprehensive lifetime warranty. Top-of-the-line installation
and service. Now featuring our FREE shower package and $1600 Of for a limited time! Call today! Financing available. Call Safe Step 1-855-601-2865.
WANTED TO BUY: Old Car, Truck, Motorcycle, also old signs and license plates, gas station items or dealership items. Call 406270-8630 any time.
STEVENSVILLE –Private party looking for a caregiver for elderly women with Alzheimer’s. Shift - Thursday and Friday (2x24 hour shifts). Serious parties should send email to ms.J_mt@yahoo.com for more information.
Megan S. Winderl CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C. 99 Marcus Street, 3rd Floor Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 218-4888
MeganW@cwlawmt.com
Pleadings@cwlawmt.com
Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY
IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF ROGER WILLIAMS a/k/a WILLIAM ROGER WILLIAMS, Deceased.
Probate No.: DP-41-24-66
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 frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Ravalli County Council on Aging, by Cathy Orr, Executive Director, the Personal Representative, in care of CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C. or fled 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 19th day of June, 2024.
/s/ Cathy Orr, Executive Director Ravalli County Council on Aging CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C.
Attorney for Personal Representative
By: Megan S. Winderl BS 7-10, 7-17, 7-24-24.
Daniel Browder, Esq. BROWDER LAW, PLLC 217 N. 3rd St., Ste. J Hamilton, MT 59840
Phone: 406-361-3677
Fax: 406-361-2999
browderlawmont@gmail. com
Attorney for Mark Porter
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CAROL ANN PORTER, Deceased.
Cause No. DP-2024-76
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 the Personal Representative, Mark Porter, return receipt requested, ℅: Browder Law PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.
DATED this 11th day of June, 2024. BROWDER LAW, PLLC /s/ Daniel Browder, Attorney for Mark Porter, Personal Representative
BS 7-17, 7-24, 7-31-24.
MNAXLP
MONTANA TWEN-
TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: NICHOLAS CARL DEYOUNG, Deceased.
Probate No. DP-2024-67
Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that Nicholas DeYoung has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever
barred.
Claims must either be mailed to Nicholas DeYoung, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, in care of Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South Second Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 or fled with the Clerk of the above court.
BS 7-17, 7-24, 7-31-24.
MNAXLP
MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: JIMMIE EUGENE TROWBRIDGE, Deceased.
Probate No. DP-2024-71
Dept. No. 1
NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that Mark Trowbridge, Amy Lucie and Kathrynn Pratt, have been appointed as the co-Personal Representatives of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.
Claims must either be mailed to Mark Trowbridge, Amy Lucie and Kathrynn Pratt, the co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, in care of Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South Second Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 or fled with the Clerk of the above court.
BS 7-17, 7-24, 7-31-24.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC
HEARING
Tuesday, August 6th, 2024, 6:00 p.m.
NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that the Stevensville Town Council will hold a public hearing on Tuesday, August 6th, 2024, 6:00 p.m. at a Special Town Council meeting held at Town Hall, 206 Buck Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 for the purpose of water and sewer rate changes and the
discontinuation of the utility bill assistance program. Comments to be considered may be given orally at the hearing, submitted in writing via email to townclerk@townofstevensville.com or US mail to Town Clerk, PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 before 5:00 p.m. on August 6th , 2024. Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting the Town Clerk at 406-7775271 ext. 102.
Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 7-17, 7-24, 7-31-24.
MNAXLP
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
Notice is Hereby Given that the Town Council of the Town of Stevensville will hold a Public Hearing to establish Ordinance No. 171, an Ordinance amending town code section 14-35 and repealing town code section 14-36 regarding noxious weeds. Chapter 14, Article II of the Town of Stevensville. 1st reading of Ordinance No. 171 will take place at the 7-25-24 Town Council Meeting and the 2nd reading will take place at the 8-8-24 Town Council Meeting. Comments may be given on the 1st reading of Ordinance No. 171 orally at the Public Hearing Thursday, July 25, 2024, at 6:30 pm and at the 2nd reading of Ordinance No. 171 at the Public Hearing on August 8, 2024, at 6:30 pm. Comments can also be given to the Town Clerk at PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 or before 5:00 pm in person on the scheduled Town Council meeting day or email townclerk@townofstevensville.com<mailto:townclerk@ townofstevensville.com> Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-777-5271 ext. 102.
Attest: Jenelle S. Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 7-17, 7-31-24. MNAXLP
OG-24-07-270
LEGAL NOTICE
The Ravalli County Planning Department is inviting public comment on foodplain application FA-24-11 for work proposed within the FEMA regulated foodplain of the West Fork Bitterroot River. The applicant is Jamison Pushak and Elizabeth Fincher. The project proposes constructing a residential structure, shop and gazebo as well as installing a residential water well, electrical utilities, propane tank and a replacement septic system. Fill will be placed to elevate the home site. The project site is located at 279 Conner Cutof Road in Section 18, Township 02 North, Range 20 West, Ravalli County. Information regarding this application is available at the Ravalli County Planning Department at 215 S 4th St, Suite F in Hamilton. Written comments may be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed (planning@rc.mt. gov) and must be received by Wednesday, August 7th, 2024 at 5:00 pm. (Reference Application #FA-24-11). BS 7-24-24. MNAXLP
OG-24-07-271
LEGAL NOTICE
The Ravalli County Planning Department is inviting public comment on a foodplain permit application for a proposed project within the Regulated Flood Hazard Area of the West Fork of the Bitterroot River. The applicant is Chuck Hoyt on behalf of the West Fork Ranch LLC. The proposed project consists of replacing an existing wooden headgate which serves the Linderman Ditch. The wooden headgate is failing and the applicant plans to replace it with new headgate made of concrete. The concrete headgate will be no larger than 6’ x 10’ x 4’ with a 3’ x 3’ opening. The headgate is not located in the active channel of the West Fork of the Bitterroot as the Linderman Ditch is an ofshoot
of the Orr Ditch. The project is located upstream of 4944 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829 in Section 23, Township 02 N, Range 21 W (Tax ID 1053300). Information regarding this application is available at the Ravalli County Planning Department at 215 S 4th St, Suite F in Hamilton. Written comments may be mailed, hand-delivered or emailed (planning@rc.mt.gov) and must be received by Wednesday August 7th, 2024 at 5:00 pm. (Reference Application # FA24-09). BS 7-24-24. MNAXLP
Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF WILLIS ROLLIE LEWIS, Deceased. Case No.: DP-41-2024-78 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 Jefery S. Lewis, 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 16th day of July 2024. /s/ Jefery S. Lewis, Personal Representative BS 7-24, 7-31, 8-7-24. MNAXLP
Continued from page 1
“In addition to basic horsemanship we learned how to use our horses to move and disperse crowds, identify an instigator, isolate and detain perpetrators, efect an arrest on horseback, escort fre, ambulance or a dignitary through a crowd and clear the way for frst responders to get to an injured person,” said Liechty. “The training also focused on desensitization, teaching the horses not to react to any outside distraction such as noises or other animals.”
As part of their graduation all trainees rode through the main square in Jackson Hole.
“The volume of people who focked to us was overwhelming and that seems to be the reaction no matter where we go,” stated Liechty.
Ravalli County Sherif Steve Holton has wanted a mounted unit for over 10 years.
“I am very excited that this has fnally come to fruition, and thankful that Liechty, Chadwick and Hsu have taken this on and made it happen,” said Holton. “Horses are a great resource for crowd control and events, and are excellent for public relations.”
Liechty, Hsu and Chadwick recently provided security at the Twisted Nut Rodeo in Darby and will be on patrol at Lewis and Clark Park during Stevensville’s upcoming Creamery Picnic which takes place Aug. 2 and 3. “Being on horseback allows us to interact with the community on a much more per-
Continued from page 1
them, Glacier Bank Corporation has a crack team that handles a lot of these transitions, and they do so very well. When the building reopened on Monday morning, there was even signage, and a happy accident where Google Maps shows First Security Bank located at its new location. According to Baker, this was the case long before the purchase even took place.
Baker said the change was a relatively easy process, as both RMB and First Security have similar footprints.
“We felt like it would be a good ft,” said Baker. However, he also believes the customers of the former RMB, which will be taken on by First Security, may appreciate the change. He said this because First Security has a more locally operated business model. Baker believes this leads to more localized decision making and a great set of products and services they are proud of. According to him, this gives First Security a real “com-
sonal level,” said Liechty. “We love our community and want to have positive experiences with people.”
The unit is of to a great start, and has a vision for the future.
Ultimately they would like to own a horse trailer that can accommodate four horses, which would enable them to assist with search and rescue in areas that are difcult to get to by vehicle or on foot. There are also equipment needs that come with horses, and currently the unit is utilizing their own horses, food and trailers at no cost to the county.
Liechty stated that they would like to grow the program, ideally to a total of six teams and possibly start a volunteer program.
For the time being, community members can be on the lookout for appearances by the mounted
munity bank feel.” He added, “I love the community bank model.”
They are excited to provide these services to the transferring RMB customers, and he believes they should expect nothing less than superb customer service.
“They are going to experience great customer service and I think they are just going to fnd it very welcoming,” said Baker.
Baker said that a community bank is really essential in places like Montana. He believes being less centralized allows banks to be more involved in the community and to address specifcally local needs and tailored services. It also gives them the opportunity to spend more time with their customers. As for the new customers, Baker said they are excited to “welcome them to the First Security Bank family.”
Most of the original RMB employees are also staying on during the transfer, and will become First
unit. Liechty encourages people to download the Ravalli County Sherif’s Ofce App as they will be making regular posts about where and when they can be found, and encourage everyone to stop and say hello.
Security Bank employees. The larger 6,000 square foot space at RMB will help house the increase in employee numbers, as First Security doubled their number from fve to 10 with the new RMB employees. According to April Roush, Stevensville First Security Bank branch manager and consumer lender, “We had outgrown our old space rather quickly.”
According to Baker, the move to the new space is “going to enhance our ability to house more employees,” and Baker also hopes it will only increase customer service. He added that many of the employees are excited for the change.
“In some ways, it is going to be like the frst day for RMB employees,” said Baker, “but training has gone well and they aren’t coming in cold.”
The RMB employees will need to learn the way First Security Bank does things, but they all have banking experience to pull from, and
Baker believes there should be little challenge in the changeover.
“I think it’s going to be really nice bringing on the Rocky crew,” said Roush.
The process has taken a lot of work at all levels, added Baker. He is proud of the work everyone has done and is excited to see what the future holds for First Security Bank in Stevensville. He said First Security and RMB each sent out notices that the changeover was happening, expecting that the community may have some questions.
First Security Bank will now be located at 220 Main Street, Stevensville. For parties and customers interested in getting more information about the changeover and what to expect over the coming weeks, Baker suggested they call the Stevensville branch of First Security Bank at (406) 728-3115 or to go to the First Security Bank website, www.fsbmsla. com.
