Friday, August 2nd
3 pm - 10 pm Saturday, August 3rd 9 am - 10 pm
Main Street Kids Parade ● 6 pm
Shōdown ● 7 pm - 10 pm
Lewis & Clark Park
Tightline ● 7 pm 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
by Michael Howell
Ravalli County took a signifcant step forward last week in addressing the problem of how to properly dispose of the ever-growing amount of septic tank septage produced in the county when it hired Morrison-Maierle to produce a Septage Treatment and Biosolids Composting Facility Preliminary Engineering Report (PER).
For many years, Ravalli County septic pumpers have both land-applied and hauled septage to the City of Missoula Resource Recovery Facility, which is the only consistent partner for pumpers that don’t have land application sites.
In 2022, the City of Missoula received over 2.5 million gallons of septage. The two largest haulers were from Ravalli County. Eckert’s Patriot Pumpers and Bitterroot Valley Septic delivered 756,267 and 662,665 gallons of septage, respectively, to the City of Missoula’s Resource Recovery Facility. But septage
waste poses signifcant challenges for municipal wastewater treatment and resource recovery facilities as nutrient loading of septage infuent can be 25 times stronger or greater than municipal wastewater infuent.
The sh-t hit the fan, you might say, in 2023, when the City of Missoula completed a once-in-twenty-years cleaning of its wastewater primary digester and decided to greatly reduce the amount of septage it would accept from out-ofcounty pumpers. It was clear during this time that permitted septage land application sites were not abundant in Ravalli County and posed their own sanitary hazards. In response, a wastewater working group was formed to look for some solutions.
It soon became apparent that none of the Ravalli County municipalities or sewer districts can fully accept the anticipated septage loading from Ravalli County. Stevensville and Hamilton may have similar concerns as those of the City of Missoula,
as septage loading has upset VFA/Alkalinity ratios in the digester process. Additionally, the nutrient loading of pure and even pretreated septage may be of signifcant concern to groundwater discharging sewer districts like Corvallis and Victor.
That’s when the Ravalli County Economic Development stepped in and applied for some grant money to obtain a PER to review septage demands, liquid treatment alternatives, biosolids treatment alternatives, and identifcation of future funding sources.
Morrison-Maierle stated in its RFQ that the county is dedicated to exploring alternatives that are, frst, aware of potential partnering with public wastewater treatment facilities, and secondarily, that impacts of septage may not be feasible for a single existing public facility. The company encourages the consideration of a central screening and pretreatment facility providing initial treatment of septage and then transport and dispersal of pretreated
liquid streams to multiple public wastewater treatment partners.
“When Ravalli County kicks of this project, there are few carbon copy examples in the region,” stated Project Manager Aaron McConkey. “Our planning process is open minded and will listen to stakeholders throughout the process to ensure alternatives presented can be implemented successfully. Discussions with pumpers and end use operators will be critical along with identifcation of operational policies/regulations that may be required to make this facility a successful example in the years to come.”
The company provided a detailed timeline for the development of the PER, beginning with a kick-of meeting on August 15, 2024, and including three additional public meetings on December 17, 2024, March 12, 2025 and April 9, 2025, and culminating with a funding application for the fnal proposal by May 5, 2025.
The wastewater working
group still meets and those meetings, held in the County Commissioners administration meeting room, are open to the public. Key members of the group include Commissioner Jef Burrows, Ravalli County Department of Environmental Health Director John Palacio, and Hamilton Public Works Director Donny Ramer.
“I think this is going to provide a lot of good information for everybody in this county,” said RCEDA Director Julie Foster. “How many septics do we have in Ravalli County? How many gallons of septage are generated annually? What are the land application opportunities now and going forward? What new regulations are we going to see concerning ‘forever chemicals’? Will it be a private company solution or a public works? This PER will give us the information we need to move forward.
“I think we will get this done. We always get things done here, if we don’t give up,” said Foster.
The Bitterroot Water Partnership invites you to help clean up the Bitterroot River on Saturday, August 10 in their annual Bitterroot River Clean Up. Volunteers sign up online for a walking site or foating stretch along the Bitterroot from Sula and Painted Rocks to Missoula and clean up on their own timeline. Visit bitterrootwater.org/cleanup to sign up for your section or learn more.
Volunteers and other River-enthusiasts are invited to celebrate Clean Up impacts from 5 to 8 p.m. on August 10 at the Rooftop of Naps Bar & Grill at 200 W Main St, Hamilton. Volunteers will receive their frst celebratory beverage free.
“The Bitterroot River Clean Up is one of those few special events that connects all of our communities across the length of our Valley,” says Alex Ocañas, Community Engagement Coordinator for the Water Partnership. “Some volunteers proudly participate each year while for others, it may be their frst act of stewardship as a new resident. The Water Partnership is especially proud to host the event because it’s a very physical representation of one of our guiding beliefs –that our waters can bring us together. We see all sorts of ages, backgrounds, and beliefs participating together in this big day of stewardship.”
Volunteers can clean up on their own schedule. A trash drop of location will be available to volunteers all day at River Park in Hamilton on Saturday, the 10th. Large trash collected from the River (i.e. fridges, recliners, bathtubs, etc., or full truck loads) must be dropped of at River Park in Hamilton, where a large dumpster will be available, and volunteers present to help unload. Any trash that is not cleaned from the River will not be permitted in the dumpster. Smaller loads of trash can be dumped here too so their weight can be included in the grand total of litter cleaned. Dumpsters and collection service have been donated by Bitterroot Disposal.
“While a record-breaking heatwave and drought conditions have forced
the Bitterroot into unfortunately low fow conditions, the extent of exposed streamside creates an opportunity to clean trash that may otherwise be covered by water,” said Ocañas.
Volunteers pull around 1-2,000 pounds of trash from the River each year during the Clean Up. Each year, one volunteer will be recognized with a prize for the “Best Trash” found during the Clean Up. Past winners found a bathtub, a recliner, a wagon wheel, and a car dashboard. You can sign up to volunteer by visiting the Water Partnership webpage at bitterrootwater.org/cleanup, calling
the ofce at 406-375-2272, or stopping in at 162 S 2nd St in Hamilton. All participants are encouraged to visit the Clean Up webpage to read event guidelines.
Schedule of Events
• Saturday, August 10
• Bitterroot River Clean-Up: All Day (volunteers choose when to clean-up)
• Trash Drop-Of: 8 AM-8 PM
• Clean Up Celebration: 5-8 PM at the Rooftop at Naps Bar and Grill
A new private school in Stevensville is increasing its capacity to serve students, thanks to a grant from the Gianforte Family Foundation. The grant will support classroom upgrades and curriculum expansion at Bitterroot Heritage Academy (BHA), which frst opened its doors to 15 students in August 2023 and expects to double its enrollment to 30 students this fall.
The academy is expanding its curriculum with new teaching materials, reference resources, and textbooks; classroom upgrades include new desks, chairs, bookshelves, and tables.
The Christian K-8 school flls a need for more “quality, alternative education in the Bitterroot Valley, specifcally in the space between Hamilton and Missoula,” according to Bitterroot Heritage Academy Principal and Co-founder Megan Gesler.
BHA uses a nontraditional, hybrid approach to instruction incorporating principles of homeschooling and experiential learning with a nod to the traditional one-room schoolhouse. The one-room schoolhouse concept enables students to interact more with others, while homeschooling allows students to learn at their own pace. Experiential learning equips
students to interact with the world, continually gather information, and generate new ideas, Gesler says. “We need textbooks to teach polynomials, but we also need to get outside of the textbook in the ways that we can.”
Gesler continues, “Students don’t ft into just one category of learning style. We wanted to create an environment where students learn to learn. Our approach to experiential learning fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills that allow students to understand the world and their place in it.”
This past year, an outdoor adventure week featured four days of feld trips where students explored nature, and then wrote “compare and contrast” pieces about the diferent places they visited. “They learned by being out in the world, experiencing nature and life, absorbing information, and creating something from it,” Gesler explains. An Ancient World History lesson on how humans have communicated over time included an assignment for students to write notes to each other in code. “They gathered information and generated their own content to communicate with others,” she adds.
Classroom “pods” for grades K-2, 3-5, and 6-8
are capped at 12 students each to provide individual attention.
“Students should be looked at individually,” Gesler says. “We have a supportive environment where students develop close relationships with teachers and each other. We’re a community here.”
Located just north of Stevensville, Bitterroot Heritage Academy shares space with Light of the Valley Church. Though faith-based, the school is not connected with any particular church or denomination. According to Gesler, “We have fve or six churches represented in our student body. We incorporate the Bible into the curriculum to foster faith and understanding and encourage students to look at school as an opportunity to grow in who they’re called to be.”
Enrollment at Bitterroot Heritage Academy is now open for fall 2024; classes begin August 12. An Open House / BBQ at the school (103 N Kootenai Creek Road, Stevensville) on August 8 from 4 to 7 p.m. will provide an opportunity for parents, students, and teachers to meet each other and celebrate the start of the new school year.
For more information, visit https://bitterrootheritageacademy.org or contact Gesler at 406-531-8804.
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down Main Street. “We wanted to round out the weekend, have more art and things for kids to do. The chalk art was something we added two years ago and it has become really popular, and it gives people something to look at while strolling down the street” said Pruitt.
The festival, which was originally called “Crazy Days” and was more of a street sale that Main Street business-
es took part in, has blossomed into an event that puts the emphasis on Hamilton’s heritage. A heritage which is not only about the town’s founder Marcus Daly but Main Street itself. There is also a strong focus on community spirit and small town shopping every year. Susan Wetzsteon, executive assistant to Pruitt, has been involved with Daly Days for over 20 years, serving in several diferent ways including
president and treasurer. Wetzsteon has helped facilitate many changes to the festival, primarily turning the event into something that is free to the community. “There used to be a charge for the street dance, and now anyone can come at no charge. We could not do it without our sponsors, they make all of this possible. The vendors that we work with are wonderful and all of our volunteers are just great!”
The Hamilton Downtown Association is responsible for three free events per year, including Daly Days, the Christmas tree lighting and Halloween festivities. “Our organization needs community support to be able to continue these events” stated Wetzsteon. For more information on how to get involved, join the association or make a donation please visit https://visithamiltonmt.org
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Revenue Bond. The bond helped to pay for sewer upgrades the Town was required to make but could not pay for on its own. The bond, essentially a loan, would be paid by increasing user rates.
However, according to Michalson, “The town hasn’t increased its sewer and water rates since 2015,” aside from a small increase in 2019 that was less than $2.
It was determined by consultants from Montana Rural Water that the Town will need to increase rates, and they determined the rates the Town will be using in the upcoming increase. According to both Montana Rural Water and the USDA, who did the analysis, it needs to happen. If not, the Town could go into default on its debt. During the last two Town audits, it was found that they will need to meet compliance with the bond terms, or there could be consequences.
“If it had been done responsibly, eight, nine dollars increase every year, we wouldn’t be here,” said Michalson.
The Town will increase water and sewer rates by around $83 this summer, and will raise them again by another $27 in January of 2025 for standard users with a 3/4 inch line. Larger line hook-ups will see even larger rate increases.
During the upcoming meeting in August, the public will be allowed to speak during the meeting. Bobbie Schular, with Montana Rural Water and one who was involved in determining the rates, will be present to speak.
The council welcomed guests from the Montana Department of Transportation (MDT). Bob Vosen, district administrator for the Missoula District, and Joel Boucher, district preconstruction engineer for the Missoula district, were there to discuss an issue that the Town of Stevensville has been grappling with for some time regarding trafc on Main Street.
According to Mayor Bob Michalson, Stevensville’s Main Street is hazardous due to speeding trafc. The problem is that as the road is a state highway, there is only so much that
the Town can do to remedy the situation. The MDT representatives hoped to answer some of the questions put forth by the council and town representatives.
One area of concern is the section at Second and Main, which lacks a stop sign. This, according to the council, confuses trafc coming in and out of town, because there is already a stop sign at 3rd and Main. Representatives from MDT stated that not much could be done until the completion of a trafc study, and an analysis of the data collected. According to Vosen and Boucher, this could take at least a year or more as they are currently backed up with these studies. However, they also stated that if the Town wanted to rush results, they could hire a consultant to process the study and expedite the process. In an interview after the council meeting, Michalson said that was not possible with the Town’s current budget.
fc and speeding, in particular the S-curve in front of Kodiak Jax. According to Boe, placing a couple speed limit signs would solve the problem. “Surely, that wouldn’t be too much, I don’t think,” said Boe.
The MDT reps stated they are not responsible for setting speed limits, and that would need to go through another state agency. MDT only controls standards for sign placement. Vosen added, “I wish it was as simple as putting up a speed limit sign but it really isn’t.”
that. In a later interview, Michalson said something really needs to be done. In another section a little further south on Main Street, there is a crossing that many school children use. There are often speeders that fy through there, said Michalson, and the confusing speed limit signs may have an impact on that. He believes the speed should be kept at 25 miles per hour the whole way, instead of jumping up to 35 in front of Burnt Fork Market.
The MDT representatives also stated they didn’t know if a stop sign was the answer, and that there was one there in the past. However, the representatives were corrected by long-time community members in attendance. According to them, there was never a stop sign in that spot. Boucher later stated that, regardless, placing a stop sign would likely not achieve the intended result, only “creating more congestion and increasing driver frustration.”
Vosen added that there is another element plaguing the state at the moment that would make this difcult. He said there are currently several large projects across the state, including aging bridge infrastructure, such as a case in Noxon. According to him, there are concerns about funding challenges for MDT to put in signage or trafc signaling. He added that they are currently 27 years out on projects.
“This study really needs to be done because it’s a mess,” said council member Cindy Brown. Stevensville Police Chief John Boe chimed in, talking about south Main Street also seeing some of the efects of traf-
Another suggestion made by the council concerned parking issues along the same stretch. According to MDT, this is something that a town can do themselves. Michalson said that was not something they were aware of and they would look into
Because of the economic recession and the slumping housing market, many house hunters these days are in no hurry to buy. They’re waiting for prices to drop lower and hoping to fnd the perfect bargain.
One local real estate group is taking a new approach to selling homes in the area. The home is open on a Friday and Saturday for viewing. Complete information about the house is available so buyers can make informed decisions quickly. Bidding starts at 66% of market price. Sellers may then pick the best bid or counter one or more of the bids. If there are
In other business, the amended its noxious weed ordinance. The update repeals an old section which allowed the Town to cite anyone not taking proper precautions against noxious weeds. The need for a change was brought to the Town’s attention after they cited a town resident. It was explained that the Town did not have this power due to Stevensville’s particular form of government powers. These powers are limited only to actions clearly defned in the Montana Code Annotated. Since there is no policy or mention of citing by a town for careless management of noxious weeds, the Town does not have this power. The amendment was passed.
no acceptable bids, the house can be sold in the traditional way. Vinda Milless, broker of West Montana Homes, is considered a target marketing specialist, more so than just a typical real estate agent. As one of only a few agents certifed as a Best Bidder Home Sale Specialist, she takes great pride in being able to sell properties fast and for top dollar. While she’s selective about the projects that are accepted, she always ofers a free phone consultation with homeowner’s options to anyone thinking of selling in the near future. 406-777-0710.
women.
Each summer lots of America’s youth
there are a myriad of camps available to young men and women.
This July three Montana teenagers from the Bitterroot attended a summer camp that is anything but typical. For the frst time in its 70-year history, Devil Pups allowed teenagers from Montana to attend. Until this year, only teenagers from California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona have been able to participate. This year, three Bitterroot teenagers were the frst from the Treasure State to attempt Devil Pups.
The name “Devil Pups” is derived from the name given to Marines in WWI by German troops. German troops called the United States Marines opposing them in battle “Devil Dogs” because of the Marine fghting prowess. The success and challenge under stress the Marines are known for is a ftting precursor for the name “Devil Pups.”
In 1953, Marine Corps Colonel A. Duncan Shaw, Sr. became concerned with the direction youth in the Los Angeles area were headed after watching a fag burning at a local high school. Colonel Shaw worked with the Commandant of the Marine Corps to develop a community beneft project that would aid the development of character qualities in young men and
Attending Devil Pups isn’t simply a matter of signing up and going. For the Montana teenagers interested in attending, they competed for one of the few available seats. They ran four separate physical ftness tests consisting of a run, sit-ups, pull-ups, and push-ups. Importantly they had to be willing to leave their family and friends for 10 days, fy to San Diego, and spend it under the watchful eye of Marine escorts. The participants, through the Marine escorts, were challenged and tested mentally, emotionally, and physically every minute in a tightly controlled, disciplined environment.
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Devil Pups combines outdoor physical exercises, inspirational classroom lectures, and
demonstrations of Marine Corps operations into a 10-day leadership course. In addition to the physical exercise, the days were balanced with inspiring classroom sessions. The
“Role Model” classroom segments are conducted by an assortment of board members, Lawyers, Doctors, Airline Pilots, Veterans, and Devil Pups alumni.
During the 10-day encampment, the participants were challenged from the moment they wake, to the moment they hit the rack. They ran, hiked, swam, tackled obstacles courses, jumped of a 25-foot tower into a pool, and climbed, more accurately raced, to one of the highest peaks at Camp Pendleton.
The Devil Pups program is more mental than physical, refecting the ‘whole person’ concept. The program’s foundations focus on activities that are intellectual, spiritual, social and physical.
The program is not a ‘mini boot camp’ or recruiting program for the Marine Corps. In fact, less than 10 percent of Devil Pup graduates enlist in the armed
forces. Although the ones who do, perform with distinction.
The Bitterroot Valley Military Program of the American Legion Post 91, Corvallis had many youths well suited for such a summer camp. Five were selected - two were injured and will try to attend in 2025. The three remaining teenagers were ready for their opportunity to attend Devil Pups in July. Unfortunately, one of the three was injured during training and had to return home before completing Devil Pups. Regan White and Ethaniel Lee from the Hamilton area were the frst two young men to graduate from the Devil Pups program.
Before White and Lee could graduate, they had to conquer the most challenging obstacle Camp Pendleton has to ofer… Ole’ Smokey. It’s one of the tallest peaks on the 125,000-acre Marine Corps Base; the same peak that the new Marines hike to during Marine Combat Training, earning the Devil Pups challenge coin. On the last day of the camp, Devil Pups graduate in a military style ceremony that friends and family are invited to. One proud father, Eugene Lee, made the journey to attend this year’s graduation on Saturday, July 20.
Each Devil Pup applicant had their own reason for attempting Devil Pups. For some, it’s overcoming fears, developing self-confdence, looking for a challenge, or just seeing something through to the end. For others it was to prove something to themselves or their families. Regardless of their individual motivations, participants would become a cohesive team with complete strangers and would get through Devil Pups with two simple words echoing in their heads: “don’t quit.”
Devil Pups is free for young men and women from California, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona. Businesses from those states donate funds to Devil Pups Incorporated for their state’s youth to attend. For the Montana youths, funds were raised from The American Legion, The Vietnam Veterans of America, the Rapp Family Foundation, and fundraising eforts of the Bitterroot Valley Military Program cadets paid for the cost of Devil Pups and the fights to and from San Diego. When the Montana Devil Pups return to school in the fall, answering questions about what they did this summer will be easy. More so, they’ll be able to transpose the core values, hard lessons, and life skills they’ve learned to their families, friends, and their peers. Honor. Courage. Commitment.
Interested in attending Devil Pups in 2025? Contact the Bitterroot Valley Military Program at www.bvmp.us
It’s the economy, stupid!
No, it’s not. It may have been in 1992 when James Carville frst used that expression, but today, in 2024, it’s not really about the economy, but about freedoms and about freedom itself.
To most people “the economy” means prices at the gas pump and the grocery store, which seem high to me, too. Apparently there are ways to fx that. but they tend to raise unemployment so extremely that you may end up without a job to enable you to purchase the cheaper gas and groceries. You want that?
No, today it’s about freedom, the rule of law, and the role of government in your life and mine.
Have you started reading Project 2025 (https://www.project2025.org/) or looking into Agenda 47 (https:// en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agenda_47)?
It’s high time. November 5th is coming fast, and if you “just always vote Republican” like a lot of people out here – well, you might want to know where that might get you and us.
Ironically, it’s Big Government. It may be traditional for Republicans to favor “small government” and fewer rules, regulations, and general oversight in our lives, but what the Trump/ Vance team wants to do is scrap most of the the existing governmental structure and civil service and replace it according to straight, white, “Christian,”* male values and absolute, blind loyalty to Trump, who is now the oldest person ever to run for President and clearly not altogether lucid, and presumably to Vance, who can’t wait to step into Trump’s shoes.
Dictators tell you what to do and punish you if you don’t follow through.
On the other hand, are you familiar with Keb’ Mo’s song “Put a Woman in Charge”? Check out those lyrics.
* I use quotation marks here because many people who proudly use the designation these days appear to be completely unfamiliar with the teachings of Jesus of Nazareth as recorded in the Bible. But then, he wasn’t a Christian, was he?
Mary Fahnestock-Thomas Hamilton
Some of our founding fathers qualify as founding teenagers; this nation was built by young warriors but is now run by ancient political thespians, so nothing kind comes to mind when addressing politics. It is an ugly business run by corrupt people hiding behind a few noble minded but disposable people. These noble warriors are few but my optimism wants to say a third of them at least start out being righteous.
Both parties now bow to “BlackRock” and other thugs with a “corporate seal” which actually enjoy the same Constitutional protections that people do through the 14th Amendment. Congress granted that equal protection under the law to every person. That last word is important, since in the eyes of the law, a corporation is an artifcial person.
This part is strange but true: A court reporter in the Supreme Court case of Santa Clara County v. Southern Pacifc Railroad chose to make his own addition to the records and noted that the court had decided that corporations are persons under the 14th Amendment, and as such are subject to the same protections under the law as anyone
else. The justices hadn’t ruled that way at all and as it turns out the court reporter was a former railroad president… fshy? It is my contention that only that which occurs naturally should have these protected rights.
The legal fction of treating a corporation as an artifcial person has created a rogue player in our representative republic. Thomas Jeferson suggested language in the Constitution to govern corporate entities; it didn’t make the cut. Perhaps it’s time we revisited that notion before we are all just shares traded on the exchange. This is what we should be fghting, not each other; time to wake up America and the world.
Mike Mercer Hamilton
Who can put the two terms of President Trump and supposed President Biden in comparison and come to the conclusion that Biden’s is the best?
Only a kook could say that, one with no common sense at all, one that is glued to CNN, MSNBC, ABC and other far left kook TV stations or newspapers. I pray that they will believe in the Son of God and be saved and also repent of their kookiness.
Meanwhile, I and Christians who agree with me have been condemned to hell by Mark Snider and Marty Essen. I thought God was the judge! Their condemnation is about my opinion, “War against evil.”
Anyway, name calling is beside the point. That point is the super infation of everything, from groceries, rent, cars, gas, mortgages, etc. The point is also 18 million immigrants who don’t belong here, living of our taxes and a hundred other problems I could name. It afects everybody except the “elite” rich.
Anybody with a lick of common sense knows this.
Richard Parker Stevensville
As Bitterrooters, we understand the importance of preserving our state’s rights and upholding the values that make our community unique. In today’s world, where the federal government continues to overstep its bounds, it is more crucial than ever for us to take a stand and protect our way of life. One powerful way we can do this is by joining the Convention of States.The Convention of States is a grassroots movement that seeks to call a convention under Article V of the U.S. Constitution. This convention would allow states to propose amendments to the Constitution, efectively reining in the power of the federal government and restoring the balance of power our Founding Fathers envisioned.
Here are reasons why Bitterrooters should join the Convention of States:
• Protect state sovereignty: As a proud community, we value our independence and autonomy. By joining the Convention of States, we can help ensure that our state’s rights are protected and that the federal government does not continue to infringe upon our sovereignty.
• Limit federal overreach: The federal government has grown increasingly intrusive, with excessive spending, overregulation, and execu-
tive overreach threatening our freedoms. By supporting the Convention of States, we can work together to enact amendments that limit the power of the federal government and protect our individual liberties.
• Promote fscal responsibility: Out-of-control spending and mounting national debt pose a signifcant threat to our nation’s future. By joining the Convention of States, we can advocate for amendments that promote fscal responsibility and ensure that our children and grandchildren do not inherit a nation saddled with insurmountable debt.
• Safeguard our way of life: Bitterrooters have a unique culture and way of life that is worth preserving. By joining the Convention of States, we can help protect our community’s values and traditions from the homogenizing infuence of an overreaching federal government.
• Empower citizens: The Convention of States is a grassroots movement driven by everyday citizens like us. By joining this movement, we can demonstrate our commitment to taking an active role in shaping the future of our nation and our state.
Lastly and more importantly, the Convention of States presents a unique opportunity for Bitterrooters to come together and protect our state’s rights, limit federal overreach, promote fscal responsibility, safeguard our way of life, and empower citizens. By joining this movement, we can make a real diference in the fght to restore the balance of power in our nation and preserve the values that make our community truly special. Article V is in the constitution for us to use - let’s do it!
Helen Sabin Corvallis
This is my 14th year in the Valley. I moved here as a long-time visitor, lover of outdoor life, and because I’ve always enjoyed the people and the Montana way of life. As someone who was always forced to live in blue states the bonus of a more conservative/libertarian mentality was huge.
I’ve been lucky enough to meet and get to know some of the nicest people while here. People wave at you on country roads, If you meet someone on a mountain trail, they’re always friendly, kids on bikes wave at you when you tell them to cross the street in front of you, there’s a slew of people looking to hold doors for people when they walk into a store/restaurant etc. (and they thank you for doing so). If you are in a store inquiring about how to fx something, or which item you should buy will work best for you, there is always a bunch of opinions based on experience that are ofered up.
So, when a book was allowed to be written called “White Rural Rage,” I was infuriated. It was written by two dopes who should not be allowed to write above the urinal no less a book, but it does exist, and was shamelessly promoted ad nauseum on CNN and MSNBC by their merry band of race baiting dolts. They even gave airtime to these clowns to spread their hate because that is what their viewers want – division and hate.
Let me summarize it for you: Democrats hate you. They do. In their elitist opinions, we are just a bunch of dumb country folk who really don’t matter to the society they yearn for. Just pay your taxes so they can launder and redistrib-
ute it and try not to shoot yourself by accident.
Of course, the usual list of unfounded slanderous names are thrown at us like misogynistic, racist, racists etc. I’m old enough to remember when the country was told not to lump all Muslims into the same category after 9/11, but white rural people apparently do not get that courtesy.
I don’t know about you, but I am done with the name calling Democrat propaganda machine. We’re nice folks who stand for the fag, support our neighbors, contribute to society, want a nation of peace and prosperity with freedom and liberty at the forefront. Not what the other guys want which is a big, bloated money wasting elitist globalist government full of un-elected ofcials who want to tell you what appliances and cars you are allowed to own.
Bill Cavanaugh Corvallis
Recent history has shown with stark clarity the power of debates to highlight the strength or weakness of a candidate.
As a voter, I am anxious to see more debates between our statewide candidates. I am particularly interested in a matchup between Democratic congressional hopeful Monica Tranel and her GOP opponent Ryan Zinke. I have heard Tranel personally challenge Zinke to a verbal duel that I hope can happen right here in Ravalli County.
I urge the incumbent congressman to meet Tranel toe-to-toe in an exchange of ideas, principles and tactics that will defne the governing strategy of the winner of the House District One race.
Tranel has said she is eager for a debate. Mr. Zinke, will you answer her challenge? Montana voters deserve no less.
Wayne Adair Hamilton
I think our country is in serious danger. All of us should be concerned about who has the nuclear codes and is running the country. Let me state a few facts. Facts both parties agree on. President Biden is not capable of competing for re-election. He has resigned from the candidacy. He has not resigned from being President. He was considered too old and feeble to be charged with mishandling classifed info. Unless something is done he will be running things until January 2025. I think everything I’ve written is agreed upon by both parties.
Doesn’t it seem strange that a guy that is incapable of running for ofce is still capable of being President? I think this is not just insane, it’s dangerous as hell! The world is on the edge of a major war and that is who is at our helm! China, Russia, North Korea, Iran, all are aware of this weakness in our leadership. Yes, the sharks are circling.
Everyone needs to tell the Congress and the White House that our President must resign or be immediately removed! Yes, I’m scared, and you should be too.
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 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
Regular Board Meeting
Wednesday – July 24, 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
Special Board Meeting
Wednesday – July 31, 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.
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
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.
Fiber Arts Club - Thur. Aug 1 at 12pm
Do you enjoy knitting or crocheting, embroidery, hand sewing, or quilting?
Bring your work-in-progress, problem piece, or brand-new pattern and enjoy the company of like-minded crafters during this informal Fiber Arts Club.
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 meditation habit.
The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, August 2 at 12 noon at the Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be Steven Neal who will talk about roundabouts from his experience in the trucking industry and being a safety director. The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
National Night Out will take place Tuesday, August 6 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds, hosted by the Ravalli County Sherif’s Ofce and the Hamilton City Police. Come join local law enforcement for a fun and family-friendly night of free food, games, prizes and activities for kids. Interact with several agencies, watch a K9 and SWAT demo, see LifeFlight land and much more.
Are you new to the Bitterroot Valley or a long time resident? You’re invited to the next meeting of the Bitterroot Women Newcomers Club on Thursday, August 8th starting at 10 a.m. at The First Christian Church, 328 Fairgrounds Road in Hamilton. After a short meeting the group will be going to Willow Mountain Winery, 1621 Mountain View Orchard Road, in Corvallis for a tour and wine tasting. Carpool from the church if desired. Come and join this great group of women.
Victor Museum lecture
The Victor Heritage Museum is hosting a free presentation by Bruce Gould about the birth of the Bitterroot Valley, 80 million years in the making, on Thursday, August 8 at 6:30 p.m.
The Bitterroot Valley’s varied landscape is a tale of two mountain ranges.The way the Valley was formed allows its inhabitants to enjoy a pleasant climate, magnifcent views and a comfortable, healthy place to live. Bruce will include in his discussion the efects of Glacial Lake Missoula and the geology of the Valley. Bruce is a third generation Bitterrooter. He is thoroughly versed in his subject and brings this story to life. Victor Heritage Museum is on the corner of Main and Blake in downtown Victor. There is no charge. All are welcome.
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 event is presented by Friends of the Library and the NVPL Foundation. For more information, contact Susan Slemp with Friends of the Library at skslemp@gmail.com.
Golf Tourney to Beneft
NVPL Library
Hole sponsors, teams, and silent auction items are still needed for Birdies for Books, the annual golf scramble to beneft the North Valley Public Library. This year’s nine-hole event is set for Aug. 17 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.
Lutheran
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
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 - Life at High Temperatures in Yellowstone’s Hot Springs
Tuesday, August 6 - Medical Uses of Hot Springs in the Frontier West
Tuesday, August 13 - Capturing the Earth’s Energy for Space Heating and Power Generation
Tuesday, August 20 - International Thermal Spas and Geothermal Energy Projects
August 24 & September 7
This two-day course is for women with little or no experience with handguns, who may be frightened of handguns or who are considering acquiring a handgun.
The frst day course is designed to assist you in choosing the right handgun – for you. It will also introduce you to the facilities of the Whittecar Range. There will be discussions on handgun safety, basic operation of revolvers, semi-automatic handguns, and the cartridges used in each type of handgun. The legal aspects of the use of force will be presented and discussed. Handguns will be provided so that you may handle the diferent types and models. Ammunition will also be provided for a live fre session on the range. A self defense book, specifcally for women, will also be provided. The second day course will teach basic defensive shooting using the students’ own equipment. Safe gun handling will be taught and stressed. Various types of ammunition and the performance of each type will be discussed.
The class will be held at the Whittecar Range on Blodgett View Road and is limited to 10 participants. Successful completion of this two day course meets the education requirements for application to the state for a concealed carry permit.
For an application or further information call Lee at 642-3590 or Jim at 360-8392.
Vendor registration
St. Mary’s Christmas Craft Sale Event “Fall Into Christmas” will be held Saturday, October 19 from 9 a.m to 3 p.m. in Stevensville. If interested as a vendor or a volunteer, contact Phyllis Rogers Green by email at bitterrootcraftdesign@gmail.com.
Calendar postings are free to non-proft groups. Submit by emailing to: editor@bitterrootstar.com
by Scott Sacry Sports Editor
The Bitterroot Red Sox and the Bitterroot Bucs completed their 2024 baseball season at the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A West District tournament in Florence on July 25-28.
The wind and thunderstorm last Wednesday knocked down a large pine tree and damaged the fence at the Bucs’ feld in Florence, but the community and volunteers rallied to have the feld ready to begin tournament play on Thursday.
The Red Sox made it to the undefeated semifnal game by winning their frst two games. They then lost their fnal two games, and fnished the season with a record of 28-12.
The Bucs won one game and lost two games and ended their season with a record of 26-14.
The Glacier Twins won the tournament and are headed to state in Polson this weekend.
Class A West District Results
Red Sox 1, Missoula Mavericks 0
In their opening round game on Thursday, July 25, the Red Sox defeated the Mavericks 1-0 in 12 innings. In a pitchers’ duel, the Red Sox’s Atticus Southwell singled in Owen Marston in the bottom of the 12th to earn the victory for the Red Sox. Red Sox pitchers Cash Lawrence and Brandon Brenneman combined for the shutout.
Red Sox 4, Mission Valley Mariners 3
In the second round on Friday, July 26, the Red Sox defeated the Mariners 4-3. The Red Sox trailed 1-3 going into the 7th inning, but scored three runs in the bottom of the 7th to get the victory. Brandon Brenneman went 2 for 3 with an RBI, and Jackson Lubke, Resse Earp, Atticus Southwell, Hunter Harrness, Toby DeMoss and Elijah McNair each had hits.
Red Sox 4, Glacier Twins 7
In the undefeated semifnal game on Saturday, July 27, the Red Sox were defeated by the Glacier Twins 4-7. Atticus Southwell hit a 2-run home run, Brandon Brenneman went 2 for 2 and scored a run, and Toby DeMoss went 1 for 3 with an RBI. Red Sox 4, Kalispell Lakers 11
On Sunday, July 28, the Red Sox were defeated
by the Kalispell Lakers 4-11. Reese Earp and Atticus Southwell each went 2 for 4 and scored a run. Hunter Harrness went 2 for 4 with an RBI, and Conner Ekin, Toby Demoss, and Elijah McNair each had RBIs.
Bucs 6, Mission Valley Mariners 7
In their opening game on Thursday, July 25, the Bucs led 6-0 going into the 7th inning, but gave up seven runs in the fnal inning to lose 6-7. For the Bucs, Jake Roth went 4 for 4 with an RBI, Joey Wheeler went 2 for 4 and scored a run, and Drew Wagner, Braelon Bahm and Chase Wagner all had an RBI. Bucs pitcher Mason Arlington struck out seven batters.
Bucs 14, Missoula Mavericks 4
On Friday, July 26, the Bucs defeated the Mavericks 14-4 by scoring 10 unanswered runs after going down 0-4 in the top of the frst inning. Drew Wagner went 2 for 4 with a home run and three RBIs, Jake Roth went 3 for 4, scored 3 runs and had 3 RBIs, and Isaiah Testerman went 3 for 4, scored 3 runs and had 3 RBIs.
Bucs 6, Kalispell Lakers 11
On Saturday, July 27, the Bucs fnished their season with a 6-11 loss to Kalispell. Jake Roth went 2 for 4 with a home run and 2 RBIs, Wes Potter went 2 for 4 with an RBI, and Chase Wagner and Joey Wheeler each added an RBI.
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their many valuable tools in helping to manage wildfres. The people who live in the towers get to experience a unique lifestyle, and bring their individuality to the surroundings they love.
Recently, a lookout at the Bare Cone Lookout Tower in the West Fork Ranger District observed several lightning strikes. Not long after, wisps of white smoke appeared from one of the strike locations.
“Because of the diligent observing, reporting, and quick response from the West Fork Ranger District Fire Crew, a small fre stayed that way,” said Matthew H. Young, Bitterroot National Forest Deputy Fire Staf Ofcer. “Our lookouts bring passion and commitment to the natural and human resources of the Bitterroot National Forest. Their contribution to the safe and efective management of wildfres is immeasurable.”
Rene Eustace, West Fork Lookout Volunteer Coordinator, said even with all of our modern technology, this is still the best way to fnd fres in the backcountry.
“If a fre pops up, they fnd it 99 percent of the time,” he said. “That’s why having these experienced people come back year after year is so valuable.”
The Bitterroot National Forest stafs 10 lookout towers situated across the forest on mountaintops with picturesque viewsheds. Employees and volunteers will staf these towers for up to four months and live there over the drier and hotter months of summer. Some of the towers are remote and require a hike to access, while others have road access. But once people get there, their watchful attentiveness makes it possible for vital information to be passed to the appropriate fre manager, such as the Bitterroot Forest’s Dispatch Center.
When an observer spots smoke, usually caused from a lightning strike, he or she passes that information including an azimuth (in degrees to the fre), map location, wind direction, slope steepness, smoke column color and fre activity. If fre management
outweighed the sacrifce.
“It’s made them versatile people,” Rhett said. Their son is following in their footsteps and is currently on the Payette National Forest as an observer.
“We enjoy nature,” Mark said. “And enjoying nature means many things, in this case – living in so much beauty along with feeling sheer, sublime terror at times.
determines a situation needs further investigating, the forest may send frefghters and/or a helicopter. Air patrol is typically scheduled, but if it is already out, it may be redirected back to the reported smoke. An aerial observer in the plane works in conjunction with the lookouts who can relay what areas need to be investigated. Those areas are usually behind a mountain ridge or other obstruction that block a lookout’s view and are the places where the aerial observer typically fnds fre. Then, based on multiple factors including the fre’s location and fre behavior, a decision is made by the agency administrator on how to suppress it.
“If a fre is within a lookout’s observable area, a lookout will most likely fnd it frst,” said Eustace. “This coordination between aircraft observers and lookout members has provided consistent, excellent results in fnding fres while they are still small for more than 50 years here.”
Those who live in the towers are typically returning, experienced members. They receive annual training in June, get their supplies and make their trek to their respective lookouts.
Mark and Rhett Moak, lookout observers, recently hiked seven miles to their tower.
“We‘ve seen and reported hundreds of fres from towers over our 42 seasons,” said Mark. “It’s exhilarating to experience a lightning storm up here. It reveals to us the power and beauty of nature that borders on the divine.”
Mark said when he and his wife frst started this more than 42 years ago, people warned them they’d get divorced because they’d be isolated together in the wilderness for long periods of time.
“But it’s been the opposite,” he said. “It’s only strengthened us. In your normal life, you’re busy with work and other things and there doesn’t seem to be enough time to focus on each other. When you’re out here [in the tower], you get time to think, put things in perspective and slow down.”
He said in wilderness, they get to enjoy being together and perform their valuable jobs of providing early notifcation.
However, he explained, there was a cost. They said they had to make the choice of giving up many summers of experiencing other things to be able to commit to this duty. But the benefts of growing together as a couple and giving their son and two daughters this opportunity to learn this lifestyle has
Eustace said people who want to be a part of this program have a love and respect for nature and typically enjoy solitude, being in a wild place, and fnding unique ways to make things work. He recalled how he collected snow melt water in an old milk can, placing it on his lookout catwalk, siphoning the water, to be able to shower below his tower.
Along with fnding creative ways to make a rustic style more comfortable, some lookout tower volunteers have unique talents. Mark Moak loves capturing the beauty of the landscape through photography, Rhett draws and paints, while Tanner Fruit, creates music on his saxophone, fnding the rhythm of music and nature.
Fruit, who is going into his tenth season as a lookout, said all of the people he’s met in this program have some kind of unique talent. He said when he’s there, he gets dialed into nature frst thing by waking up with the morning glow versus an alarm clock.
“It’s so peaceful,” he said. “My morning routine is sauntering around the tower, looking for fres and holding long tones (on his saxophone).”
He said he’s even mastered the sound of a cow-elk call on the sax but has yet to hear a response from an elk.
“It’s feeling my best,” Fruit said. “It’s a time to be in-tune with the rhythms of what it feels like to be a human without all of the modern pressures that we put on ourselves. Being in the tower means I don’t have to be anywhere else, running from place to place.”
During his many seasons as a lookout tower observer, he said he has reported up to 40 fres.
Some of his other duties are responding to constant radio queries such as “Is that a fre or a waterdog?,” which is a wispy cloud that can deceivingly look like smoke.
“Verifying information is a big part of what we do,” he said.
Providing eye-witness data on anomalies occurring in nature helps forest managers get much needed intelligence on-the-ground, or rather in-theair. Also, Fruit explained that if there are frefghters in his area, he will focus on that area more keenly, giving them up-to-date information until they leave.
Eustace agreed that lookout observers do much more than report on fres. They act as a relay station for frefghters, trail crew members, or other Forest Service employees working the backcountry who need help communicating with Dispatch. Firefghters can be updated on incoming weather, wind shifts and sometimes an increase in fre activity they might not be able to see from the ground. Lookouts have also helped to relay vital medical information when frefghters or others have sustained an injury in the backcountry.
Eustace, who has been a wildland frefghter and involved with lookouts since 1976, said in his opinion, even with all the hype of AI (Artifcial Intelligence), the humans on the mountain tops are the tried-andtrue way of reporting intelligence. They report and evaluate instantly and then continually report what they see while a fre is active.
“The people doing this love what they do and the Forest appreciates them,” he said.
The Bitterroot National Forest is continuing to ramp up for this season that is getting hotter and drier, which lends itself to fre starts. Stafng these lookout towers is just one of the many ways the BNF strives to be proactive to mitigate these wildfres, along with education programs throughout the year to reduce wildfre spread and human-caused fres.
For more information about how to prevent wildfres or get fre information updates, visit www.fs.usda.gov/main/bitterroot/ fre and www.mtfreinfo.org.
Celestina “Sally” Bendewald, 89, of Stevensville, passed away on Wednesday, July 24, 2024 at Kathy’s Place Assisted Living. She was born in Miles City, MT on September 18, 1934 to Jack and Kitty Paul. After graduating from Manhattan High School she went on to St. Patrick School of Nursing graduating as a registered nurse. She worked in pediatrics at St. Patrick’s hospital and in Dr. Preston’s ofce.
She met the love of her life, Alan Bendewald in September 1956 on a blind date set up by her future sister-in-law. They became engaged on New Year’s Day and were married on March 31, 1957. Dr. Preston delivered daughter Lindsey in January 1958; in March they moved to Salt Lake City where Sally worked at a hospital while Alan attended telegraph school.
January 1959 took the family to Big Sandy, Havre, then to Salinas, CA where Laurie was born. In May 1960, they moved back to Missoula where Sally worked in private duty before moving to Bozeman in February 1962 where she worked at Deaconess Hospital while attending college. Son Michael was born in May 1964 and in August they moved back to Missoula where Alan began his career with the Farmers Home Administration. Over the next few years, the family lived in various towns in Montana; their ultimate goal was to return to the Missoula area for good. During the summer of 1968, while living in Havre, she was able to complete her degree in nursing. In 1970 they settled in Stevensville where they met many good friends through the square dancing club. These friendships grew throughout the years resulting in many memorable card parties, Christmas treeing adventures and business ventures including
Curtis Rathburn
Missoula - Curtis Rathburn, 63, died at home in Missoula on July 24, 2024 surrounded by his loving family after a long battle with cancer. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family. at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Edward Miller
Hamilton - Edward Miller, 87, died at home in Hamilton on July 22, 2024. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
Ervin Dietz
Hamilton - Ervin Deitz, 86, died at home in Hamilton July 26, 2024. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Marlyn Walther
Hamilton - Marlyn Walther, 88, died at Discovery Care Center on July 24, 2024 surrounded by family tonight after a long illness. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Carlos Jackson
working with both Dr. Combo and Dr. Ferguson and at the North Valley Nursing Home in Stevensville. Sally enjoyed bowling, family camping trips, and daily pinochle games with her daughters. She loved attending her grandkids’ and great-granddaughter’s school activities. She lit up when the little great-grandkids visited, she was always up for a game of catch and sharing her ice cream. Sally was kind and loving, always seeing the good in everything and everyone. We will miss her and her beautiful smile.
The family would like to acknowledge and extend a special thank you to the wonderful staf at Kathy’s Place who loved and cared for her during her time there.
Sally was preceded in death by her husband, Alan; her parents; sisters Shirley Hinz and Regina Howard; brother Ray Smith; and son-in-law, Gary Ashmore. She is survived by her children, Lindsey Ashmore, Laurie Sonju (Dave) and Mike Bendewald; grandchildren, Danielle Sheridan (Chris), Jessica Moretti (JK), Geof Hamers (Abbie) and Alyssa Peterson (Dillon); great-granddaughters Marley Sheridan and Ella Bright; great-grandsons Cooper and Brooks Peterson, Kaysen and Kellen Bright; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at Riverside Cemetery on Thursday, August 1, at 3:00 pm with a reception following at the Lonesome Dove. In lieu of fowers, the family suggests memorials be made to your charity of choice. Condolences and cards may be sent to the to Sally Bendewald Family, 3518 Holly Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
Missoula - Carlos Jackson, 66, died at St. Patricks Hospital in Missoula after a motorcycle accident on July 22, 2024. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com
Margaret Moddison
Hamilton - Margaret Moddison, 72, died at home in Hamilton on July 29, 2024 with her loving husband, Robert by her side after a long battle with cancer. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com
Shirley Mae Agner Hamilton - Shirley Mae Agner, 73, of Hamilton passed away Monday, July 22, 2024 at her home of natural causes. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel. com.
Thomas Gardner Supak
Stevensville - Thomas Gardner Supak, 75, passed away at his home in Stevensville on Friday, July 19, 2024. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.
I looked at some air quality graphs on the internet recently and confrmed what my burning sinuses, eyes, and bronchia were telling me: Infants, seniors, and those with respiratory ailments are warned to take it easy or stay indoors.
Still, some of us need the rejuvenating break that comes with fshing.
The trick is to choose your time and place wisely. I was otherwise occupied when a recent rain shower cleaned things up for a bit or I’d have gone fshing. Next time when it rains and I can see the mountains, I’ll take of for a few hours.
ho’s cutthroats, have degraded the fshery.
That media exposure, along with hot weather and smoke will push angler trafc toward Skalkaho. My point here is if you’re going to fsh Skalkaho, consider the impact that increased pressure will have on this little, accessible, vulnerable fshery.
by
Chuck Stranahan
I won’t, under any circumstance, foat fsh – even if hoot-owl restrictions allow it in the morning.
Speaking for myself, I can’t see it. If water temps are high enough to stress trout in the afternoon, why head them into the afternoon already bearing the stress of having been caught, exhausted, and released?
Right now the East and West Forks and upper main stem of the Bitterroot are taking the brunt of the angling pressure. Float trafc is concentrated on the West Fork and upper river. Those fsh need a life-preserving break – not the concentrated pressure from increased foat fshing.
As I’ve written recently, go to a creek that doesn’t require a strenuous hike.
Skalkaho Creek is just minutes from Hamilton and is a roadside fshery. If you go there, please, please, please release all of your fsh unharmed. That starts with fshing a single hook barbless artifcial. Increased fshing pressure from media exposure hit Skalkaho years ago or I wouldn’t be writing about it here. There are articles and videos on-line about the creek which, combined with FWP dropping the catch-and-release reg on Skalka-
The creek has an abundant food base and grows healthy trout. Spawners from the river come up it every year and some stay over.
No wonder – the cold springs that feed it and the perpetual shade from its canopy of vegetation and the varied habitat of its bottom make ideal trout habitat.
It would be an utter shame to kill even one of these fsh. A resource as small as Skalkaho can be depleted in just a few weeks of incidental
harvest. Skalkaho can become just another roadside fshery that doesn’t amount to much if it isn’t treated right by its users. You don’t have to be an expert caster to fsh Skalkaho Creek, You do need to be in fairly good shape; the wading can be a bit tricky in this tumble-down-the-mountain rocky streambed – but it’s not too bad. My son Matt managed it in places when he was six years old; daddy stayed close by him but he never fell in.
Another creek Matt enjoyed fshing was Lost Horse. Smaller stream, smaller trout, absolutely beautiful settings scattered along the road into the wilderness that parallels the creek.
We could stop at a pull-out, explore a bit, and fnd a rock-bound pool with little native trout in it. Catching these beauties on a light rod, in surroundings that are at once intimate and spectacular, is an experience that brings a rare combination of exhilaration and humility to all but the most callous of souls.
Again, as a roadside fshery, the idea of killing those beautiful little natives in an environment as vulnerable as Lost Horse is repugnant. Don’t do it – even if the regulations allow.
Skalkaho or Lost Horse – you can drive and get on these creeks without too much deep breathing or prolonged exposure.
There are other creeks that ft that bill, if the smoke in their end of the valley isn’t too bad. You can drive right to them, get out, and fsh a bit without exposing yourself to a day’s worth of contaminated air.
Do some exploring. Check the wind as you approach and don’t be afraid to go another direction if you’re driving into a concentration of smoke.
As the smoke clears (and I’m hoping it soon will,) other creeks that require a not-too-strenuous hike to fsh will become reasonably available to explore and enjoy. As they do, we can all take a breather. Literally. I’m looking forward to the day.
Your Future Begins Here ~ Join the Lucky Friday Team! We are currently accepting applications for Diesel Mechanic
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.
High School graduate or equivalent.
Associates Degree or Certifcate in Automotive or Diesel Technology preferred.
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 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
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
by Kristin Kruse
The American Legion has partnered with the Ravalli County Sherif’s Ofce in creating the American Legion Emergency Response Team or ALERT program. Members include individuals from the Corvallis, Hamilton, Stevensville and Florence Posts.
The concept has been in the works for about a year, and on Friday, July 26, members met with Ravalli County’s Director of Emergency Management Erik Hoover along with Deputy Emergency Manager Jef Rodrick. Hoover, who has been with the Sherif’s ofce for 22 years and the Director since 2014, explained the role that ALERT will play in the community.
“The focus right now is on coordination and communication for the community,” said Hoover. “Getting information out to the public, making and taking calls and shuttling equipment if necessary in the event of an emergency.”
A prime example of how this team will be utilized in the future was evident during last week’s storm. Dispatch was fooded with over 800 calls, which clogs up the phone lines for life threatening emergencies, according to Hoover. Once in place, ALERT will be set up in an emergency operations center at the Sherif’s Ofce, ofering support to dispatch and providing the community with current and critical information.
“We are still exploring the possibilities with this group,” stated Rodrick.
“This is phase one of the program, communications training. We are very happy to have community involvement and additional resources for the Sherif’s Ofce. All volunteers are vetted, and bring specialized skills to the table.”
The team will be utilized not only for assisting with wildfre emergency management but any other type of large scale emergency or disaster, such as fooding or a mass shooting.
Garrick Doll, who is the Commander of Stevensville Post 94, attended the training and spoke of his hopes for the program.
“I think it is a great opportunity for veterans who are used to being of service to be able to continue to do so,” said Doll. “These veterans are used to working in a team environment, they are adaptable and have a variety of skills. This is a good way for them to continue to serve their community. I am hopeful that the program will become a useful product.”
With phase one complete, there is hope for a second phase, which would involve the training and certifcation necessary to assemble a medical unit that could be called in by the Sherif’s Ofce when needed. Until then, ALERT is ready to provide communication needs as they arise.
“We can’t operate without volunteers, they are a huge beneft to our organization,” said Hoover.
Continued from page 1
The other ofcer, Pierce, was sworn in on June 30. Pierce lives in Missoula and used to work for the Missoula courthouse. He hopes his skills from a courtroom setting will transfer well into his new position. As he spoke on his experience, he stated that he often dealt with people potentially having some of the worst days of their lives, and he became experi-
enced in working with those people.
“They are not always getting good news from the court,” said Pierce. He believes in treating everyone the same, whether they have committed a crime or not, and said he gives people the dignity and respect they deserve, while also working to enforce the law for others who have been wronged or potentially put in danger.
Pierce wanted to pursue a career in law enforcement and jumped at the chance to work in Ravalli County, as he plans to move here. Pierce’s favorite part of the job is getting out and talking to the community. He will be taking on the student resource ofcer (SRO) position for the Stevensville School District as soon as he returns from the academy and has had another month of training in the feld.
He is excited for the SRO position and to further improve community relations. He spoke highly of how they have stickers and coloring books to hand out.
“We’re very excited to serve the community and protect them,” said Pierce. Pierce will be attending the academy starting August 18.
Both ofcers are on board with the direction Stevensville Police Chief John Boe is taking the department.
“We want to help make a better standing,” said Pierce about the department. Franklin also spoke on the rebuilding of the department, saying, “It just sounds like something fun to be a part of.”
According to Boe, “I’m excited about the future.” He is working to better the relationship between his department and the community, hoping they can become “more approachable and engaging.”
For him, that means a lot of things, including forming more of a presence on the streets and at community events. After hiring more help, he hopes that vision will come further into focus. “I’ve got two really great guys,” said Boe. He also wanted to recognize the eforts of Joe Marble, saying that he has been “instrumental” in rebuilding the department. “I can’t thank him for all of his work and all of his knowledge,” said Boe. “I’m extremely grateful.”
Boe added that he and Marble held an extensive interview process to fnd the right ofcers for their department and for the community. “We were looking for the right ft,” said Boe. Boe stated that they work for the town of Stevensville and want to involve community members in their
process as much as possible. They even included members in the hiring and interview process of the two new ofcers.
The other part of this vision is for the Stevensville Police Department to become more active in community events again. They plan to bring back the Chili Cook-of that has been so popular, and plan to host it again in October. Boe is interested in anything that “brings the community together.” He hopes the cook-of will be a good way for the community to meet their new ofcers and to see where the department is going. He also explained that this time, instead of benefting the department, he would like to see the money they raise go back into the community. “I’d much rather see the town beneft as a whole than just the department,” said Boe. “We want to let them know that we are out there to support them.”
When speaking about the interview process and his vision for the department, Boe said, “I’ve spent a lifetime in this profession trying to change people’s perspective of law enforcement.” He thinks the best way to do that is with action.
Finally, Boe wanted to extend a notice to the community, specifcally to speeders on the downtown stretch of Eastside Highway. They plan to be making a concerted efort going forward. Over the last month they have been ramping up the severity of ticketing. Boe explained that he did not want to change things overnight, and wanted to ease the community into it. He believes in the past the department has been too relaxed on speeding. His department is going to be much harsher on speeders because the route is so utilized by the community. Boe said there are children walking there, people going to stores and vehicles backing out from parking spaces. He said cracking down on speeding there is imperative to keep the community safe. The department has been writing a lot of warnings up until this point, but plans to increase severity to let people know speeding will not be tolerated.
Everyone has their own opinions on triggers and their setups, and during this time of year, a lot of hunters may be out trying to sight in their frearms before September bow season rolls around. If they do bow hunt, that will consume a lot of their time. Something many may not consider during sight-in is not the scope, or the sights, but actually the trigger.
Arguably the one of the most important parts of a frearm is the trigger. It is the main interface between the user and the weapon and it can determine the diference between an ethical shot on a hunt, a score on a target or failure. There are a lot of schools of thought regarding trigger pull, depending on what a person is intending to do. Hunters often have their perspectives on what makes a good trigger and that can vary wildly from those in the competition precision sports space. I have found myself with maybe a unique perspective taking from one and bringing the ideas to the other.
much from the modern practical pistol sport world, where trainers and athletes are striving to get the most out of their frearms. In the hunting space, shooters are often more interested in less interruption to their shot, but are not often thinking as much about the trigger as, say, long distance precision competition shooters. In the latter, they are very concerned with short trigger travel, and very defned stages of trigger pull.
by John Dowd
I was out this last week with some friends and we got on the topic of differing trigger opinions. They are both competition and defensive instructors as well as mild hunters, while I dabbled in precision sports and defensive shooting but have focused on the hunting.
During our somewhat heated discussion, some interesting perspectives were shared which I believe shooters from any discipline may beneft from. For me, in any shooting trigger is key, and what makes the diference may not be what a lot of people think about.
I have a couple old rifes from my grandfather, and one in particular is
In my experience, and as my comrades and I discussed last week, there are a few steps in the trigger to pay attention to. A good trigger should have uptake, a wall and a sharp break with very little follow through after. This means that during the pull, as the trigger travels backwards, there should be some motion that slowly builds tension behind the trigger. After a small distance there should be a tangible climax of pressure, where it feels obvious the next slight movement will set it of. This is called the wall, and every shooter prefers a diferent feeling.
I believe their preference often comes down to which camp they fall in. Those who like the traditional “hunting” ideology often seem to prefer a “rolling break.” I prefer a hard wall, which means I can work up to that wall, hold there and fnalize how comfortable I am before I follow through the rest of the pull. It makes me far more accurate and much faster. It also improves my consistency because there are less steps to “muscle memorize.”
When considering a trigger with little follow through, this refers to the distance the trigger will travel after breaking the wall and discharging the
hunting both large and small game. Trigger technique and its methods can change a hunter from an average shot to a great shot. I have also found that diferent platforms are better shooting with diferent triggers. I always prefer a lighter wall in pistols because there is more fnesse involved because the overall weapon utilizes fewer points of contact and is lighter in weight. I often prefer the opposite in rifes and shotguns, which are heavier and seem
fnger movement. I believe a shooter should have complete control of their tool of choice, and the trigger is the main gas pedal that controls how a gun drives. It helps to imagine having a vehicle with a very light gas pedal that immediately speeds up to near its highest speed. This would be far less comfortable and safe to drive than a vehicle with a gas pedal that slowly and consistently raises the speed. This was the analogy we came up with during our discussion.
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270-8630 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.
RESTAURANT HELP
WANTED, 1 - 2 nights a weekend from 6pm8:30pm, duties include various jobs, fast paced, good pay, and free meal at the end of shift. Details discussed at the interview, call (406) 777-3681 for an interview.
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 TWEN-
TY-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 TWENTY-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
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
MONTANA TWEN-
TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: VICTOR JAIME SHEPHERD, Deceased. Probate No. DP-2024-69
Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that David Shepherd and Marta Arnold have
been appointed co-Personal Representatives 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 David Shepherd and Marta Arnold, the co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, in care of Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 or fled with the Clerk of the above Court. BS 7-31, 8-7, 8-14-24.
MNAXLP
PUBLIC HEARING
The Darby Town Council will hold a public hearing to receive oral and written comment regarding: Amend Fiscal Year Budget 2023-2024. The hearing will be held at Darby Town Hall, 101 East Tanner Avenue, on August 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m.
BS 7-31, 8-7-24.
REQUEST FOR BIDS (RFB): Tin Cup Creek, West of Darby 206 Acres of Thinning and Piling Project GNA 2 (phase 2) The Board of Ravalli County Commissioners are soliciting Request for Bids (RFB’s) for the 206 Acre Tin Cup Creek thinning and piling project.
1. A Pre project walk through of this proposed project is scheduled for Monday, August 05, 2024 at 9:30 AM. Meet at the Darby Ranger Station, 712 N. Main Street, Darby, Montana 59829.
2. Sealed Bids must be received by the Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second foor) Hamilton, Montana 59840 no later than MONDAY, August 12, 2024 by 4:00 PM. Please mark the outside sealed bid envelope “RFB for 206 Acre Tin Cup Project”
3. Bids will be opened and read aloud in the Ravalli County Commissioners Conference Room at 21 5 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana (Third Floor) on TUESDAY, August 13, 2024, at 11:00 AM.
4. Possible Bid Award will be made by the Commissioners in the Commissioners Meeting Conference Room at 21 5 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana (Third Floor) on Thursday, August 15, 2024, at 9:00 AM.
PLEASE NOTE: The successful bidder of this Project, may possibly be required to obtain a Performance Bond, per contract requirements
(any project in excess of $80,000.00).
Ravalli County reserves the right to accept or deny any, part, or all of the bids as submitted.
For a copy of the Full Treatment Plan (Scope of Work), please contact Gary Oram, Ravalli County Forester at 406-375-6511 during regular business hours or by email: countyforester@rc.mt.gov.
For questions concerning the Request for Bids Process/ contract, please contact Chris Taggart at the Ravalli County Commissioners Ofce - 406375-6500. Email: ctaggart@ rc.mt.gov Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 7-31, 8-7-24.
MNAXLP
Joan K. Mell III Branches Law, PLLC 623 S 1st Street
P.O. Box 576
Hamilton, Montana 59840
Ph: 406-363-3293 Fax: 281-664-4643 joan@3brancheslaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF WAYNE WEIDOW, Deceased Cause No. DP-24-60 Dept No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY
GIVEN that Ellen May Weidow 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 Ellen May Weidow, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, in care of III Branches Law, PLLC, P.O. Box 576, Hamilton, MT 59840 or fled with the Clerk of the above court.
Dated this 24th day of July, 2024 at Hamilton, MT. III Branches Law, PLLC /s/ Joan K. Mell\ Joan K. Mell, Montana Bar No. 58399883 Attorney for Personal Representative BS 7-31, 8-7, 8-14-24. MNAXLP
REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS PROFESSIONAL PLANNING SERVICES Ravalli County invites proposals from qualifed private consultants to provide Professional Planning services
for the Ravalli County Planning Department and for the independent review of, and professional consultation on, selected development proposals from private project owners within Ravalli County. SCOPE OF SERVICES Ravalli County has upon occasion the need for Professional Planning services. These professional services may include Subdivision Review, Regulation Updates, Zoning Review, Subdivision Exemption Review and other general land use planning application review. The COUNTY would engage a CONSULTANT for services on an “on-call” basis with no guarantee of the amount of work available. It is estimated that the total of the services provided would typically not exceed $50,000 per year. For a full description of Professional Planning Services and Selection Criteria, please contact Rob Livesay, Planning Director at 406-375-6530. ALL RFQ submittals must be submitted to the Ravalli County Clerk and Recorder’s Ofce. 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, no later than Wednesday, August 14, 2024 at 4:00 PM. Commissioners’ Possible RFQ Award is scheduled for Wednesday, August 21, 2024 at 1:30 PM. BS 7-31, 8-7-24.
NOTICE OF FINAL BUDGET MEETING At the fnal budget meeting to be held on or before August 20, 2024, the Stevensville School District Board of Trustees will be meeting on August 13, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in the Stevensville Music Center Choir Room for the purpose of considering and adopting the fnal budget of the District for fscal year 2024-2025. The meeting of the individual District Trustees may be continued from day to day until the fnal adoption of the District’s budget. Any taxpayer in the District may appear at the meeting and be heard for or against any part of the budget. For further information please contact: Dave Thennis, Superintendent, 300 Park Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 or call 777-5481 ext. 5136. BS 7-31-24. MNAXLP
USDA Rural Development Montana State Director Kathleen Williams announced USDA is partnering with farmers and small businesses to expand access to clean energy and lower energy costs through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) and the Rural Energy for America Technical Assistance Grant Program.
“USDA’s energy programs are working to help rural Montanans adopt clean and efcient energy options,” said Williams. “We are so pleased our partnerships with the Montana Department of Agriculture and the National Center for Appropriate Technology are expanding our reach and helping more people access this funding to make their lives, our economy, and our environment better.” Under the REAP Technical Assistance Grant, Montana Department of Agriculture (MDA) and National Center for Appropriate Technology (NCAT) are awarded additional funding to continue providing technical service. To date, the technical assistance provided by these partners has resulted in 25 applications received by Montana staf under REAP. Sixty percent of these received applications are from distressed or disadvantaged communities.
MDA is receiving a $250,000 grant to provide
technical assistance for REAP applicants, agricultural producers, and rural small businesses. MDA has established 11 Food and Agriculture Development Centers across the state to partner on the project and reach hundreds of potential applicants.
NCAT is also receiving a nearly $250,000 grant to provide technical assistance for REAP applicants within Native American Reservations. NCAT will work with Montana Renewable Energy Association, Native American Community Development Corporation, Inc. and Native American Development Corporation to help applicants with USDA Rural Development’s REAP process.
The following recipients worked with MDA and NCAT to secure REAP funding because of their technical assistance partnership with USDA Rural Development: Rae Ventures LLC dba Campbells’ Plumbing and Heating in Belgrade is receiving a $88,037 grant to purchase and install a 73.153 kW roof-mounted solar system. The business expects to save nearly $10,000 in energy costs per year with this installation.
Holden’s Hot Wheels in Havre will use a $44,365 grant to purchase and install a 38.4 kilowatt (kW) solar array, which is expected to save the business nearly $7,000 per year in utility costs.
Thornton Labs Inc. will use a $98,625 grant to purchase and install energy efcient lighting and insulation at its Butte The business anticipates this installation will save $11,600 in energy costs per year.
Bickford Building LLC in Polson will use a $18,700 grant to purchase and install a 16.6 kW solar system and a $20,000 grant to purchase and install a new efcient HVAC system. These investments are expected to save up to $2,500 in annual energy costs.
Browns Meadow Farm LLC in Kila will use a $23,450 grant to purchase and install a 19.68 kW solar system and a $3,586 grant to install energy efcient insulation. These two investments will help the cattle and hay ranch save about $1,900 per year in energy expenses.
Two Moose Ventures LLC in Whitefsh is receiving a $19,719 grant to make energy efciency improvements with new windows, doors, and an HVAC system. These upgrades are expected to save about 43 percent of its historic utility bills.
The following Montana businesses are also receiving REAP funding: McCone Electric Cooperative Inc. in Circle will use a $54,029 grant to make energy efciency improvements to its HVAC system and doors. This utility provider expects to
save about $3,200 per year in utility costs.
Ad Evans Enterprises Inc. is receiving a $258,409 grant to purchase and install solar photovoltaic (PV) arrays for Evans Ace Hardware in Hamilton. It’s expected this project will save about $22,000 in annual energy costs.
Wild Horse Vista Properties LLC in Dayton will use a $85,299 grant to purchase and install solar panels to save up to $6,323 in annual energy costs for this short-term lodging business. Pioneer Technical Services Inc., headquartered in Butte, is receiving a $74,517 grant to purchase and install a 60.83 kW roof-mounted solar system at its location in Helena. This installation is expected to replace 46 percent of the location’s annual energy consumption. Timber and Tree Care Enterprises LLC, which provides tree services in Boulder, will use a $15,851 grant to purchase and install a 13.32 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system. It’s expected this will generate enough electricity to power two homes and save about $2,300 in annual energy costs.
4S of Butte LLC dba Steel’s Furniture in Butte, will use a $72,320 grant to purchase and install a 60 kW roof-mounted solar system. This project is expected to save about $9,300 in annual energy costs.
REAP enables agricultural producers and rural small business owners to expand their use of wind, solar, geothermal and small hydropower energy and make energy efciency improvements. These innovations help them increase their income, grow their businesses and address climate change while lowering energy costs for American families. These investments are included in a national announcement in which USDA shared it is investing $163 million in loans, grants and technical assistance that will support 338 clean energy projects in 39 States and Guam. Many of the projects are funded by President Biden’s Infation Reduction Act, the nation’s largest-ever investment in combating the climate crisis. USDA Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, Tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, visit www. rd.usda.gov/mt. If you’d like to subscribe to USDA Rural Development updates, visit the GovDelivery subscriber page.
