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Volume XXXV, Number 51

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

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Corvallis apartment fire claims three lives

Caring is her calling

Nurse Cathy Scholtens, a pediatric critical care nurse at Community Medical Center, has been honored with two awards for outstanding nursing, the Mercy Award and the Daisy Award. Scholtens has dedicated her life to helping others, both inside and outside the hospital environment. Megan Condra photo.

Extraordinary nurse gets two major awards

hospital, she extends this into the By Michael Howell community,” states the award announcement including several Stevensville resident and examples. nurse Cathy Scholtens recently “Years ago, we had two received, back to back, two presbrothers who had been admitted tigious awards in recognition of dozens of times to our pediatric her outstanding service to her unit due to congenital pulmonary patients and to the community disease. Both were in need of a at large. lung transplant, but the cost was First, she too prohibiwas notified It’s nice to know that your life’s work is appretive. Cathy by her boss was a leader ciated and that you are doing the right thing and at Commuin the many nity Medical you are doing it right.” -- Cathy Scholtens fundraising Center in Misevents that soula that she community.” helped enable these boys and had been chosen to receive the Scholtens is a pediatric their family to move to Seattle to hospital’s 2020 Mercy Award. critical care nurse who has been await their eventually successful The Mercy Award recognizes working at the inpatient pediatric transplants.” one employee from each of Life- unit and the pediatric intensive She helped a local prePoint Health’s 80 hospitals “who care unit at Community Medical school in need of playground profoundly touches the lives of Center since 1992. equipment by auctioning off others and best represents the “Cathy not only continuartwork from three and fourspirit and values on which the ally fosters a growth and safety company was founded,” accordSee NURSE, page 14 mindset within the walls of the ing to the company announcement. An anonymous selection committee of peers met last month to select the winner from a list of candidates that were nominated by fellow employees and medical providers. Scholtens, it states, was nominated for her “relentless dedication to go beyond the call of duty to serve patients and the

Ravalli County Sheriff / Coroner Steve Holton said the Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a suspicious fire that occurred at an apartment complex on Main Street in Corvallis at approximately 2:15 a.m. this morning. At the time of this release, there are three confirmed deaths as a result of the fire. It is believed that all of the victims are adults. Corvallis Fire responded with mutual aid from Hamilton, Pinesdale, and Victor Fire Departments and were able to contain the fire to one building. The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office has directed all of its resources to the investigation, and called for assistance from the State Fire Marshal and an independent fire investigator. Sheriff Holton asks that anyone with information regarding the fire contact the RCSO immediately. The RCSO would like to visit with anyone in the area that might have seen how or when the fire started, or who might have witnessed any activity prior to the fire. The identities of the victims had not been released as of press time. The RCSO will release more information as the investigation See FIRE, page 3

An early morning fire on Monday at an apartment complex on Main Street in Corvallis resulted in the deaths of three people. The fire is under investigation by the Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office. Liz Cook photo.

Fun-filled Fourth

Temporary hold placed on Stevensville recall election

On June 30, 2020, Ravalli County District Court Judge Howard Recht put a temporary hold on the administration of a recall election against the Mayor of Stevensville stating in his Temporary Restraining Order that “further processing of the Recall Petition risks causing irreparable and immediate harm to the Plaintiff.” The order enjoins the spon-

sor of the recall petition, Leanna Rodabaugh, and the County Clerk and Recorder, Regina Plettenberg, in her capacity as the County Election Administrator, and prohibits them from processing the Recall Petition any further than gathering more signatures during the allotted 3 month timeframe which began on May 22. A show cause hearing is set for July 9 at 9 a.m. at the

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county courthouse. The temporary restraining order will stay in effect until the show cause hearing and a Preliminary Injunction will stay in effect until the final hearing and ruling on the issue. Mayor Dewey has challenged the legality of the petition in court claiming that it is based on lies and misinformation and should not have been approved for circulation.

A skateboard competition, live music, food and fireworks were the order of the day on the 4th of July at Lewis & Clark Park in Stevensville. The event was organized by Raymond Smith, who funded everything through donations from businesses, groups and individuals. The Stevensville Volunteer Fire Department topped off the day with an outstanding fireworks display with plenty of room in the park for social distancing. Jay Harmon, pictured here, was winner of the highest Ollie, clearing four skateboards. Ara Masar photo.

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Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Sheriff responds to social media comments

LET’S KEEP FIGHTING COVID-19

By Michael Howell

Sheriff Holton believes that his attendance at a meeting in Stevensville on Monday, June 29, was billed incorrectly and that his comments at the meeting have been variously misconstrued on social media. Holton attended a meeting held at Fort Owen Inn sponsored by a group called Stand Together for Freedom. He was referred to in a notice of the meeting as the Guest Speaker. “I was just asked by a couple of people to come and answer questions,” said Holton, “but somehow it got billed as though I was some sort of great speaker, which we all know I’m not. I didn’t have a speech. I literally just answered questions.” He said since the meeting there were things coming out on social media that maybe are not misquoted but have been taken out of context. Representative Theresa Manzella, for instance, has interpreted his remarks as suggesting that he is about ready to call out the militia based on state code’s definition of his duties, which includes, to use her terms, rounding up a posse. The law reads, and she quotes it, “command the aid of as many inhabitants of the county as are necessary in the execution of the sheriff’s duties.” Asked by a Missoulian reporter about raising a posse, Holton is quoted as saying, “I can’t imagine a circumstance that would be so bad that I would do that.” He said in some case of great need he would contact neighboring law enforcement. Manzella also stated, according to the Missoulian, that Holton stated he would not enforce a Governor’s order making mask use mandatory. Asked about this by the Bitterroot Star, Holton said, “That’s true, but there’s more to it than

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Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton that. If it’s a law, then that’s a totally different thing.” He said right now he doesn’t have authority to go around forcing people to wear masks. He said Ravalli County decided last March that the Governor’s directives would not be enforced as criminal violations but as civil violations. He said if Public Health determined that someone was in violation of the Governor’s edict, it would be turned over to the County Attorney’s office for potential civil prosecution. He said that this way people’s due process is observed, and people are held accountable for their actions, but it is not a criminal matter. “It’s really about individuals and their choices and individual responsibility,” he said. He said if the proper authority told him it was the law that people had to wear masks making it a criminal offense, he would still have a problem enforcing it. “I’m not staffed to enforce masking or social distancing,” he said. “And when it comes right down to it, if I get a call to respond to an incident of domestic violence or enforcing social

distancing at some gathering, I’m going to go to the domestic violence incident. What it boils down to is we have to prioritize and I can’t take people off the road to enforce that kind of thing.” He said once again that what it comes down to is individual decisions that people have to make. “I’ve got vulnerable people in my family,” he said, “and from a personal standpoint I’ve got to decide, do I want to take my family out to a restaurant? Or do I need to stay home? Again, that’s an individual decision that people have to make. The restaurants may be open, but I might choose not to go.” He said, in the light of all this discussion, “There is one thing that I would really like to get out there. Quite frankly, it’s don’t believe anything you read on social media. I’m glad to answer questions from any citizen of Ravalli County. If anyone wants to call me I will return it, maybe a little slow, but I will call you back.” The non-emergency number for the Sheriff’s Office is 3754060.

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Bitterroot Star -- Page 3

Bitterroot now has community spread of COVID-19 virus

By Michael Howell

The first cases of community spread of the COVID-19 virus have been reported in Ravalli County. While the first several cases of people in the county testing positive for the infection were determined to be “travel” related, a few recent cases have not been tracked back to any travel experience or any contact with any other people known to have been exposed. It indicates that the virus has most likely planted itself here and is now circulating within the community. As positive cases in the state began to climb with the movement into Phase 2 of reopening, so did cases in Ravalli County, and the Ravalli County Public Health Department is now working overtime on following up on all those positive tests. The follow up includes tracking all contacts with the person testing positive over the past 14 days. According to Public Health Nurse Karyn Johnston, all people testing positive are quarantined and then an investigation is begun to identify all known contacts that person had in the previous two weeks. This is done to identify anyone who may have been infected. These people are tested and then quarantined for 14 days even if they test negative. This is done, according to Johnston, because an infected person may spread the virus for up to two weeks prior to showing any symptoms. She said there had been cases in the county where people tested negative upon entry into quarantine and showed no signs of any symptoms until the 12th day of quarantine. They were tested again and found to be positive at that point. The aim of the contact tracing, of course, is to track back and be able to test all the exposed people on an infected person’s contact list. This is time consuming business. Not only are the three nurses on staff at the Public Health Department working overtime on this, four additional nurses have been called in temporarily to assist. As of Wednesday, July 1, there were 20 positive cases in the county and over 150 people in quarantine. Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital reports that it recently processed 80 COVID-19 tests in a single day. The county health department recently acknowledged the “community spread” cases that have cropped up and some res-

taurants which had opened under the Phase 2 re-opening plan are now stepping back. Mission Bistro in Stevensville, for instance, has closed its restaurant to in house dining and returned to take-out only services out of an abundance of caution. According to Public Health Nurse Karyn Johnston, the only reported case in Stevensville was not related to a business but at a private residence. Some of the positive cases in the county have tracked back to involve some businesses, however. Fin’s Taphouse in Corvallis, for instance, shut down recently when it turned out that a positive case made a visit to the business while potentially contagious. The business shut down voluntarily and worked with the Ravalli County Health office to get the place in the proper condition and with the proper protocols in place to reopen. According to Fin’s website, it re-opened on Thursday, July 2. “After working closely with the Ravalli County Public Health Department, our staff will be stepping up on our continued efforts to adhere to the CDC Guidelines. Don’t worry, we will be smiling behind our masks.” Johnston said that her office knows the exact date that the COVID-19 positive person went into Fin’s, but she would not say what that date was. She said that by providing the date she might be indirectly divulging the identity of the infected person and subsequently violating his or her right to privacy. Given the date, she said, some person in the community could possibly figure out who it was. She said that violating a patient’s right to privacy concerning medical information and records could cost her a $50,000 fine and her nursing license. However, Fin’s Taphouse posted on its Facebook page that a person who tested positive was in the business on Tuesday, June 23 and Wednesday, June 24 between 3 and 7 p.m. Johnston said that her office did have a list of businesses that have had customers or employees test positive for COVID-19. “We haven’t told anyone to close,” said Johnston. “But some have chosen to.” She said some businesses, like Fin’s, have chosen to close but others haven’t. She said if an employee at the business tests positive, some of the other employees have been quarantined. The Bitterroot Star also heard from one of its readers that the local VA Clinic in Hamilton had been shut down following

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a visit from a person who then tested positive for COVID19. No one from the Veteran’s Administration could be reached for comment. All listed phone numbers simply led to a message machine with no way to leave a message and no person ever answering despite the fact that it ended with “if you have any other questions please stay on the line.” One phone number for the media to contact the VA in Montana did have an answering machine that was working but no one has yet replied to our message. Asked about the VA being closed due to a visit from a COVID-19 positive person, the Johnston said, “Yes, I believe that’s true.” The Star was finally able to get verification about the VA clinic closure from Catherine Beall, Public Affairs Officer with the Montana VA Health Care System who had contacted the Star on another matter. In an email she stated, “The clinic was disinfected and deep cleaned. It reopened for regular hours on Wednesday, July 1st.” The VA also scheduled a drive-through COVID-19 testing opportunity for veterans on Wednesday, July 8 from 8:30 to 10 a.m. at 299 Fairgrounds Road, Suite A, in Hamilton. Asked if any grocery stores had come up on any contact lists, Johnston said, “They just have to figure that they are waiting on people who are testing positive and take the appropriate mitigation measures.” “We are encouraging everyone to wear a mask when they go out in public,” said Johnston, “and to keep the proper distance from other people.” She said it was a proven effective deterrent to the spread, but it requires a high degree of cooperation. Overall, Ravalli County has had 40 cases of COVID-19 since March. As of Monday, July 6, Ravalli County has 19 active cases, which includes four new cases they are investigating and doing contact tracing on. The cases are in Darby, Corvallis, Hamilton and Stevensville. Two cases are hospitalized. All cases are in isolation and their contacts are in quarantine.

There will be lots of action at the Darby arena on Friday and Saturday night with the Twisted Nut Festival bull riding. Star file photo.

New name, new cause, same bull(s) at Darby bull-a-rama By Jean Schurman The annual bull riding held the second weekend in July in Darby will have a new look. Gone are pink ribbons and signs about breast cancer awareness. Instead, purple will be the color of the night with an emphasis on testicular cancer. The Twisted Nut Festival is a two-night affair with bull riders from across the Northwest competing. Cal Ruark, the man behind the event since the beginning 12 years ago, is always looking for a new cause. He found one that isn’t always talked about, gave it a name that will make you giggle, and more importantly, will raise awareness for this disease. Testicular cancer is on the increase, especially in men in their 30’s, right about the age of some of the bull riders. The money raised for the event will be donated to Marcus

Daly Memorial Hospital and the hospital will match the donation. In addition to ticket sales, there will be a raffle featuring a number of items with the proceeds also going to the final donation. The two night event will feature at least 24 bull riders each night attempting to ride the bulls from Red Eye Rodeo. This is an open bull riding this year so anyone could enter. Entries have already closed. Due to COVID-19 and the closure of the Canadian border, the only Canadian cowboys will be those who were in the States when the border was closed. Red Eye Rodeo has an impressive herd of bucking bulls which will be a test for the bull riders for the weekend. Justin Ketzenberg who is from Yakima, Washington, will be competing. He is currently leading the Northern Rodeo Association bull riding standings. Payton Fitzpatrick of Polson won the NRA bull riding

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championship in 2019 will also be competing. Other top finishers from the NRA that will be competing are Bridger Fitzpatrick and Rawley Johnson. In edition to the regular bull riding which, of course, also features the rodeo clowns/bull fighters, there will be American West Style bull fighting using Mexican fighting bulls. There will be two bull fighters who take on these bulls who have a pretty nasty disposition. There won’t be a cape and certainly no swords but the skills and foot speed of these bull fighters are sure to amaze everyone. Hunter Saltzman of Deer Lodge provides the bulls. Ruark said there will be food trucks and concessions at the arena as well as a full bar. Gates open at 5pm both nights with the bull riding set to begin at 7pm. Cost is $15 for adults, $10 for seniors, and kids 10 & under are free.

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continued proceeds. Sheriff Holton stated that the rapid and professional response of the Corvallis Volunteer Fire Department and the mutual aid resources were what saved the neighboring buildings and the residences of those apartments and houses. The fire had spread to a second apartment building, but those residents were able to be evacuated safely. The Red Cross responded to help the families that were displaced by the fire. Sheriff Holton said, “tragically, three people lost their lives due to this fire. The Ravalli County Sheriff’s Office is thinking about and praying for the victim’s families. We have assigned the entire Detective Division to determine the cause of the fire”. Sheriff Holton again reiterated the need for anyone who might have seen or witnessed anything in the area within the last week to contact Detective Lieutenant Jake Auch at 406-363-3033.

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Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star

Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell

Opinion

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Guest Comment

Pandemic-itis: the difference between science facts and fictions By Elliott Oppenheim, MD JD LLM Health Law, Florence

I am dizzy. How can any one of us make sense of anything in these confusing times? What is true? I get my mail at the Lolo Post Office. I often talk to folks at the Post Office in order to metaphorically take the dual counties’ temperatures. There was a man with a long pony tail and wirerimmed glasses who asked me, “What’s the deal with the mask? It’s over,” he said. “This virus is gone,” he said. “I wear my mask to protect me and to protect you,” I replied. “This virus is in for the long haul. I think we’ll be dealing with it next year at this time.” “I don’t believe all this science nonsense (he didn’t exactly say it that way … ) about those masks. What is science, anyway? Who invented science? Who says so?” I think he had a point there about “who says so?” Let me explain. I have detected a disconnect in modern times, a disbelief in science. Many people no longer trust science. What is science? How do we know when we have a competent opinion that we should follow? … and anyhow, experience guides us. Right? “I know what I know,” I have heard people say. “I don’t need science.” That would be an example of phenomenological thinking. For instance, you misplace your car keys and ascribe it to demons overtaking your life or punishment for bad conduct. What happened was that you were distracted and didn’t pay attention to where you set them. Several thousand years ago there was no science. People looked at the world and interpreted what they saw empirically. If there was a blackout of the sun, what we now know as an eclipse due to predictable planetary movements in relation to our heliocentric universe, many people interpreted that to mean that celestial forces were retaliating against their bad ways. Science is a body of empirical, theoretical, and practical knowledge about the natural world, produced by scientists, once called philosophers, who emphasize the observation, explanation, and prediction of real-world phenomena. William Whewell in the 19th century appears to get the credit for the word “science.” Prior to that, investigators called themselves “natural philosophers.” Mankind has been making observations about the world for millennia: Thales and Aristotle, for instance. The scientific method has been around since the Middle Ages, and the scientific method has been employed since the Middle Ages: Ibn al-Haytham and Roger Bacon. The core to identifying science from opinion, or empiric observation, is, that if a belief is true, it is true under all circumstances, given the same conditions. In science, we develop an hypothesis and attempt, through experimentation, to prove it false: to refute the hypothesis. With empiricism, the opposite is true: to prove the observation true. This is called confirmation bias. … one selects conditions and observations to confirm the phenomenon. If you go to a huge rally in this COVID era and do not get sick, then these virus warnings must be bogus. Until Copernicus, 1473-1543, mankind vigorously debated whether the sun revolved around the earth, or whether the earth evolved around the sun. Our universe is heliocentric; earth around the sun. Kepler defined planetary orbits and that the planets do not follow a circle, but an elliptical orbit. … and why were the Dark Ages (also called the Middle Ages) so dark? The term was coined by an Italian scholar, Francesco Petrarch. The thousand-year period between 500 AD and 1500AD were dark because there was no information available. Knowledge was in closely held hands, predominantly religious. Religious superstition dominated this period where various events and social issues were attributed to spiritual failings: crop failings, birth deaths, infections, to name a few. Bad crops? Kill a witch … There was a major advance in education in Europe and then Gutenberg invented the printing press in about 1439 and the “rest is history.” As soon as information became available, people no longer had to rely upon empiric observations. It became possible to test various theories. Modern science began to evolve in the early modern period, and in particular in the scientific revolution of 16th- and 17th-century Europe. Then came Sir Isaac Newton, an English mathematician, physicist, astronomer, theologian, and author, a “natural philoso-

Bitterroot Star

Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com

Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta

The Bitterroot Star is published weekly at 115 W. 3rd, Suite 108,

The BitterrootMontana. Star is published weekly at$50 115per W. 3rd Suite 108, Stevensville, Subscriptions are yearStreet, in Ravalli Stevensville, Montana. Subscriptions are$70 $40per per yearout in of Ravalli County, $60 per year out of county, and year state.County, $50 per year out of county, and $60 out of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.

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pher.” He was widely recognized as one of the most influential scientists of all time and as a key figure in the scientific revolution. When he was boinked on the head by an apple in 1687, according to the tale, he elaborated a theory that applied to all objects, large and small, using mathematics: gravity. Until recently, the advent of the Internet, it was difficult to tamper with thought. That is no longer the case. Anything, any theory may appear on the Internet as fact. Who knows what is true in media reporting? It is possible to generate “alternative facts.” … with no support. What differentiates opinion from science is that science is dependable and results can be replicated. If the results are science, they are independent of opinion or alliances with axe to grind. Science is neutral. This brings us to the clash taking place with this COVID-19 virus. I walk around every day with great anxiety over COVID19. During the Black Plague, we learned that the ailing ships brought rats to ports and the fleas on the rats disseminated the Plague. Shut down rats, clean up the ships, and, voila … no more Plague. In the mid-1800’s Semmelweis showed that handwashing stopped mothers from dying following childbirth. Pasteur showed that destroying bacteria in milk eliminated various bovine diseases from milk. … and people no longer got sick. Lister developed the concept of sterile surgery. Sterility is the fundamental precept for personal, protective equipment: PPE’s. If we manage these viral particles, COVID-19 is halted. When Ebola broke out in West Africa in 2013-2016, these cleaning regimens made the difference between life and death. COVID-19 is not as ravaging as Ebola but it must be respected with a morbidity of 4-6%. With COVID-19, according to the World Health Organization, 20% of those people who get COVID-19 will wind up on respirators and endure long ICU stays. Post-infection consequences are serious. Garden variety flu has a mortality of about less than 0.1% … and most people are “all better.” Worldwide, across over one-hundred countries, it is scientifically clear that masks cut down COVID-19 transmission. It is clear that handwashing cuts down transmission. No one disagrees with this with the exception of the “self-anointed geniuses” who, with no real rational support, ignore science. COVID-19 is biologically interesting. It hits us right where we are most vulnerable … our immune system. How should we react to prevent getting this? In this COVID-19 context we keep hearing about experts. To whom should we listen? Who is an expert? There are varying degrees of expertise in any field. By onthe-job training, (OJT), some people get “pretty good” over what they do and profess openly that they are an expert. In the highly specialized fields of epidemiology and infectious diseases, that sort of expertise comes only after significant academic accomplishments and lots of experience. The fact that a person is of high social or political stature means nothing about that person’s ability to profess reliable knowledge. Be wary of the “self-anointed genius” — someone who proclaims expertise with no particular credentials. Linus Pauling, who did win two Nobel prizes in chemistry, bloviated about vitamin C, claiming that it cured the common cold. Wasn’t true … no scientific support. Another myth is about sugar, that somehow sugar is detrimental to children and causes behavioral problems … no scientific support… These experts — where they may have credentials in one field but offer opinions in other fields — are dangerous. It is impossible to change someone’s mind when it comes to some of these personal choices. I go with science because it is dependable. In countries where they have followed the guidelines, look at their results: 1.38% mortality in Israel. US has almost 5% mortality. I am reminded of a Clint Eastwood quote… or maybe it was someone else. “Are you willing to bet on that?” If you want to be safe, wear your mask; wash your hands; use social distancing… The worst that will happen is … that you and your family will survive. Oh, wash your hands.

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Support our free press

I’m celebrating the patriotic July Fourth by joining with others in “investing” in a phantom subscription to the only independent, historic-type paper remaining in this region–the Bitterroot Star. Without a free press America wouldn’t be what it has become, and there wouldn’t be a voice to counter anti-U.S. ideologies of politics, education and fake media. I’ll take an out-of-county subscription for $60, but don’t try to mail it to me for I’m not out-ofcounty. You save postage for I’ll pick up a free copy downtown. Keeping the paper alive means I’ll always be able to put out a letter free to the reading public on any idea I get excited about and want to share with others. Phantom subscriptions – a way to promote an independent press. Charles E. Wissenbach Pinesdale

Encourage the Montana tradition of being neighborly

Yet again, Montana gives me good reason to be proud. We watched in disbelief, and some in horror, as the Covid19 virus marched its way around the world. Our Governor wisely placed then began methodically lifting restrictions on our social and business interactions to give us time to prepare as best as communities can, for what might come. Our medical providers and public health officials continue to provide stellar leadership helping us comprehend how we can live our lives while taking prudent steps to reduce the risk of individual or community-level infections. Our business owners continue to deal with the harsh impacts of temporary closures and pro-longed limitations to help protect their employees and their communities. Most Montanans accepted these temporary limitations and our collective efforts paid off. We successfully kept our infection rates low for several months. But that’s changing. Quickly. And for the worse. I want to avoid another round of mandated business and social restrictions. I want to avoid a directive requiring masks in public places. Most of all, I want to avoid expanding infections that harm my friends and family, endanger my community’s medical providers and frontline workers, and leave lasting impacts on the Valley’s individual businesses and overall economy. Simple as they seem, correctly worn face masks are one of the most effective ways to curb, but not eliminate, the spread of Covid-19. Wearing a mask when in enclosed or crowded spaces continues our tradition of helping our neighbors since wearing a mask provides greater protection for those around the mask wearer than for the masked Montanan him/herself. Many of us do this as a matter of course, and others might take up a mask with a bit of encouragement. While we welcome out-ofstate visitors for all they bring to our community and our economy, how can we effectively invite them to ‘be a good neighbor’ while here by simply wearing a mask? Bottom Line: Let’s prove we don’t need government mandated limitations and requirements. Let’s avoid increased infection rates, that coldly clinical term for what are actually very personal hardships and losses. Instead, let’s have some appropriately socialdistanced fun, inviting visitors and residents alike to rally around ‘We’ve Got It Covered’, ‘MaskUp, Bitterroot’, ‘Hamilton Strong, and Masked’, or ‘Masks – Take One for the Economy’. It’s just another way we can demonstrate our ability to meet a potential crisis like a Montanan. Head-on, strategically thoughtful, and in a good-humored, neighborly fashion. Nan Christianson Hamilton

Wear your mask

Montanans like to joke about having nine months of winter and three months of company. As the snow fades from the mountain tops we can say we’ve been lucky in Western Montana. Thanks to a relatively small stable population, a proactive business community and good State guidance, we came through the quarantine in pretty good shape. The summer “company” season is proving to be a lot more risky. We’ve learned a lot since March about how this virus spreads and how it affects people differently. I think it is enough to know that when it is bad it is really bad, and if the virus gets it’s way we will have to go back to staying at home and not socializing. That is hard on our families, workers and it’s bad for business. The best protection available to us at this point to stop the spread is to keep the virus load out of the air we breath. This is especially important in enclosed spaces. We can keep our business open and protect their employees by putting on a mask when we go inside or are in public spaces where lovely things like talking and laughing are happening. Being an over sixty potentially at risk adult, I’m willing to do my part. I keep a clean cloth mask in my pocket and put it on when I go into a business, public space or crowded area. I enjoy seeing the fabrics and colors as well as the no-nonsense black and blues on my friends and family knowing that they are wearing them out of consideration for keeping our community healthy and open for business. It just takes most of us choosing to be responsible for our own air space to kick Covid 19 back to a manageable risk. Have fun this summer with your mask ready to serve as needed. Maureen Powell Michael Moran, M.D. Terry Moran, M.S., R.N.

Just how stupid are we?

We’re in the middle of pandemic and people won’t even do the simplest, easiest thing to stop the spread - WEAR A MASK. Inconvenient? Off putting? Not cool? Would you rather be in a medical coma with the breathing tube down your throat? And if not you, how about someone you care about? If you not wearing a mask affected only you, then you’d get what you deserve. But it doesn’t work that way. I wear a mask to protect you and you wear a mask to protect me. We’re past isolated cases and into community spread. It’s estimated that up to 60% of people infected with the virus aren’t showing symptoms and don’t know they have it. But everywhere they go, just by breathing they’re spreading the virus like a mosquito fogger. Masks can cut this spread by up to 85%. Outdoors, with social distancing, can be pretty safe. But gatherings like the farmer’s market or even just walking on a sidewalk are not safe. Everywhere indoors in not safe without a mask. You can be considerate of your neighbors, families and friends or you can be stupid and selfish. What’ll it be? Mark Van Loon Hamilton

Behind the Mask mask, I ask?

face?

Who is that behind the

Someone I know, or should I can’t see the smile I once knew so well, Is she happy or sad? I really can’t tell. Who is that who covers their

A health care worker Who stays in their place Doing their job with patience and grace. Who is that who walks down the street Hiding their face from all that they meet? knew,

Where is the smile we once The handshake, the hug

Wednesday, July 8, 2020 And the “How do you do?” What is that behind the mask? Is it fear of getting Covid 19, Or fear that without it you will be seen? Is it a style you now think is here, And you consider it part of your gear? Is there anger because deep inside, For the sake of a few, you are forced to abide? Is there confusion? Can’t blame you there. We’ve been lied to so much the truth is now rare. If you wear a mask are you asking “why?” Is there a law to make you comply? Wearing a mask is unhealthy you know, You need the oxygen and fresh air flow. Are you tired of asking “What did you say?” And being told to remain six feet away. What is the purpose, what is the goal? It’s not about the virus, it’s all about control. Control what you do, control where you go, Control of your worship, control of your soul. You work in a store and are forced to comply “If you don’t wear a mask” it is “goodbye!” It’s like being in a prison. So what can be done? Make your voice heard, ‘til the battle is won. Let’s get back to laughter, and freedom and fun, Remove those masks, get out in the sun, Release that anger and the fear, And breathe in the fresh Montana air. Let’s pray for freedom, that this will not last. Let’s pray it’s soon over and we won’t have to ask Just what is the motive BEHIND THE MASK? Grace Wilson Stevensville

COVID-19 testing should be free

It has come to my attention through conversations with three people in the billing office that our local hospital is charging for Covid-19 testing. They are asking $79 from folks getting the initial testing, which is either charged to the patient’s insurance, or requested outright, or put into the billing system. I have researched this practice of charging for the administration of the Covid test, and do not see it supported in any Federal legislation (i.e., CAREs Act, March 2020, and the Health Care Enhancement Act, April 2020). These bills specifically deliver additional funding for hospitals and healthcare providers to increase testing capabilities to help track the spread and impact of the virus. Jon Tester also delivered nearly $200 million to rural Montana hospitals, and health centers, for Covid assistance in May. I was informed the hospital was “looking for grants and other resources” to pay for administering tests to uninsured people, and “they can make an application for those when we secure them.” I am not at all happy with this situation. People under the stress of exposure to Covid, or actually experiencing symptoms, need free testing. They do not need to make out applications, worry about a hospital bill accruing, or use food money to pay for a test. This is a classist policy and further victimizes folks who are under tremendous stress. I would like the hospital to drop their policy of charging, absorb these costs and reimburse themselves with the federal (and state) funds that are provided to do exactly that. And if I had frosting on my cake, they would refund the payments already made.

If you share my viewpoint, please let the hospital know, either through telephoning the folks in billing, or writing a letter to Kelly Akkerman, Director of Patient Financial Services, or John Bishop, CEO. Star Jameson Hamilton

The questionable truth behind the Recall page

If you are curious about the character of those behind the current recall effort directed at Mayor Dewey, I suggest you take a minute to visit the “Recall of Brandon Dewey” Facebook page. The anonymous author(s) of this page hide behind their keyboard, eschewing any personal responsibility for their distribution of misinformation and spiteful, arrogant, and hateful words. The page’s About section states: “Citizens against Mayor Dewy (sic). I am an ex-employee of the Town of Stevensville. Who has watched things get way out of hand. This is why I am speaking out.” When questioned about their identity, they said they were “someone who still has to work in Town with everyone.” Oddly, for someone who proclaims they have to work with others in town, there is nothing on their page that leads me to believe they really do value relationships with others. They trolled Mayor Dewey’s personal FB page and used numerous personal images of him without his permission and when questioned about it, stated, “When you put images on the internet it is free for the posting. I don’t troll anyone’s page. It comes freely across my feed.” Without arguing the legality of this, I think we can all agree it’s creepy and invasive. Numerous statements are made regarding the Town staff’s June 4, 2020 letter to the Bitterroot Star (asking for an end to harassment of staff), which Recall characterizes as the Mayor allowing “staff to demean residents in paper.” It’s odd, and rather disappointing, to think that an ex-employee of Town would shift blame to Mayor Dewey, claiming a lack of management skills on his part for “allowing” staff to submit a letter to the paper, going so far as to call this action “unethical and illegal acts as a mayor,” rather than focusing their concern on the bullying and harassment of their fellow Town employees. As an exTown employee, I would expect them to be aghast and angered by the situation, but oddly, their message is in-step with the angry minority seeking Mayor Dewey’s departure from office. Additionally, their concern over the staff’s letter seems focused on the staff’s treatment of the council: “I have seen staff demean council, I have seen the Mayor demean council, how can a council member do their job, without speaking to employees.” Once again, no mention of OTHER Town employees being demeaned, only Council members. It almost makes you wonder if this ex-employee isn’t actually a disgruntled ex-Council member. On the flip-side, however, at one point the page stated, “So Mr. Dewey can sue the County, the Recall group. On his $1k a month salary. Who is paying the fees for Your attorney?” While I’m confused how the payment of Mayor Dewey’s attorney fees is pertinent to the recall effort, it’s interesting the author repeatedly posts statements that confuse “the Recall group” with Leanna Rodabaugh, the actual subject of Mayor Dewey’s lawsuit. Or maybe they weren’t confused. Regardless, they support Leanna, encouraging her to “stay strong and sue them when it’s over.” An odd suggestion, considering their continued criticism of Mayor Dewey’s lawsuit. Despite this individual’s insistence that they are sharing “the truth,” their posts are riddled with errors: When listing the “5 reasons why you should have resigned,” they include the “$6K on desks” (cost was actually less than $3K), “staff trip” (training for personnel), and “so many more” (one of many vague, unsubstantiated statements alluding to a laundry list of wrongdoings by our Mayor that are never actually

spelled out). Oddly, none of items listed in these “5 reasons” were included in the recall petition, which one would expect them to be if they were truly reasons for someone to be recalled. In closing, I will leave a message to Mr./Ms. Recall - I hope the citizens reading your posts on these pages realize that while you are questioning the Stevensville citizens’ ability to trust Mayor Dewey and two council members, you are hiding your own identity/ies, making it impossible for citizens to identify you and thereby determine their own trust in your posts and information. Hiding behind anonymity to attack others on social media is a cheap act of cowardice. Respectful people use their real identity to address matters of importance in a dignified manner. Anonymous insults hold no value. They’re absolutely worthless. Shey Joy Stevensville

Turnover

I recently was party to a conversation concerning the turnover at the Stevensville Town Council. It was stated that there have been seven people on the Council. There have actually been nine council members, ten if you count Bob Michalson’s recent reelection to the Council. For the Mayoral supporters, I will name the Council members who have served: Raymond Smith, Stacie Barker, Bob Michalson, Jerry Phillips, Jim Crews, Dempsey Vick, Pat Shourd, Steve Gibson, and Jaime Devlin. Nine people in two years is more than enough to turn over the Council, twice. The Mayor’s supporters are fond of blaming the Council for all the problems in Stevensville when in fact it is not the Council it is the Mayor that is the problem. The Mayor said he wanted wo work with the Council, then he all but locked them of the Town Hall. He went behind their backs and signed an IT contract in December for over $75,000 which is now the subject of a recall because he did not follow policies nor did he get prior approval from the Council. If we go beyond the Town Council to the employees, there is even more evidence of problems with the Mayor. In the Building Department, Dennis Munroe and Rick Martin have left. At the Airport, the town lost Chris Soto, Paul O’Bagy and Katie ColemanAssad as managers. Public Works recently lost Jeff Hale. As nearly as I can determine, the police department has lost three officers. Dean Whitesitt is no longer the Cemetery Sextant. Brian West is not the City Attorney any more. There have bene three finance officers in the Mayor’s tenure, April Van Tassel, the Mayor, and Robert Underwood. Finally, there have been three town clerks, Stacie Bartlett, Audree Tribbensee and Monica Hoffman. All these changes in two years or less. The Mayor’s supporters will say that of the 25 or so people mentioned above there are 25 answers to the questions “why did you leave.” That might be true but the one real reason is the Mayor doesn’t have the leadership abilities to run a town. That kind of turnover in such a tiny organization is telling. There needs to be a change. Mark Adams Stevensville

Support for Mayor

I hope people stand behind Brandon Dewey and keep him as their Mayor. He ran for office for the right reasons -- to serve the people of Stevensville, and work to make our community better. Even when mean spirited council members made him choose between giving up a beloved position on the volunteer fire department, he chose service to the town, over that volunteer service. I have known Brandon since he was about 8 years old, and have always known him to be a sincere, caring individual, and I applaud his accomplishments while he has served his constituents. What in the world is Mr. Michalson’s agenda in this? He is rude to city employees, bullies those he doesn’t like, sends back

stabbing emails, and posts no positive ideas for moving Stevensville forward. It looks to me like Michalson and his cohort Robin Holcomb, should be the ones run out of town on a rail. City Council members should have more of a plan to govern than to make everyone’s life miserable. Stand up for Brandon, and vote against his recall. Jane Lambert Stevensville

Covid impact and town budget

Mayor Dewey is proposing to push through a budget in early July, prematurely asking for extreme increases that are irresponsible and frankly make no sense at all in light of the economic impacts of Covid. Last year the Mayor did not even present a preliminary budget until Aug. 12th, the budget isn’t due until the first of September. Impacts of Covid: Most communities are delaying budget action for the following reasons: Many communities are projecting a significant increase in delinquent property taxes. Some towns are projecting instead of typical 6-8 percent delinquency rate up to 18% because of the Covid Virus fall out. Taxes are not due till July 15th, there is no way to project revenues at this time. Down the road there may be a potential of some businesses not being able to survive the Covid and those entities may drop off the tax rolls. This would put people out of work and make it harder for them to pay taxes as home owners. This could come as late as November. Travel is down due to Covid restrictions. This will reduce the amount local governments get in gas tax revenue. Events are being cancelled such as Heritage Days and Creamery Picnic, that not only bring in revenue but draw people from out of town who spend money. Many communities are trying to keep budgets neutral. They are proposing no new positions and no new capital projects. Some are actually making cuts, including summer staff and recommend hiring freezes. Finally, they are calling for no increases in taxes or fees. Mayor Dewey, on the other hand is proposing some large pay raises for certain employees as high as 20%. He is asking to double the town’s attorney compensation from what was budgeted last year. He is asking to increase his own salary from $12,000 a year to approximately $20,000 a year. On raises, employees last year got a 2 percent raise. This year some businesses are having to do layoffs. The mayor is requesting new employees. He is asking for money to purchase another vehicle that is not needed, money for leasing additional building space, while requesting to increase fees on local citizens. Please contact your council members and the Mayor and ask them to be fiscally responsible to all the taxpayers of Stevensville. Ask them to please delay action on the budget until we know what the projected revenues are. Do not spend money we do not have in order to prevent possible future cuts, layoffs and increased taxes due to economic impacts of Covid. Many of our citizens are hurting, due to Covid; lack of jobs, income etc. This is not the time for any increased spending or premature budget approval without knowing what the revenues are. Tonya Eckert Stevensville

Clarification Jim doesn’t want to be mayor!

To clarify Mr. Crew’s position on serving as mayor of Stevensville again: Despite several past and current council members’ apparent interest in bringing Jim Crews back to the Council, Mr. Crews made abundantly clear during a social media post on June 29, 2020 that he has no interest in serving as Stevensville’s mayor, nor did he during the last election cycle: “Get this straight. I do not

give a crap about running for mayor and really did not back then. No one else filed to run, so I said I would just so he would not win the election by acclimation. So stick it in your ear. I did not want to be mayor back then, do not want to be mayor now or ever again. Especially to have to clean up the problems this kid has created for this town.” These remarks are sad and disappointing on several levels. 1. A past-mayor of Stevensville only ran for office out of spite to prevent “this kid” from winning. What happened to running for office out of civic duty? If he had won the election, would Mr. Crews, a self-proclaimed “Private American Citizen,” have taken his oath of office to heart and served the community to the best of his abilities? 2. Mr. Crews displays obvious ageism toward our current mayor. Though less condescending than “that little punk,” which is how he’s referred publicly to Mayor Dewey in the past, it is still concerning that Mr. Crews does not feel any need to support and encourage the younger generations in pursuing their civic duties. 3. Despite the numerous public comments Mr. Crews has heard regarding his vociferous demeanor, his continued vitriolic, condescending, and intimidating tone is disturbing and disheartening. One would hope he’d take these comments to heart and give thought before making such harsh remarks in a public forum (or really anywhere). Instead, he acts as if there are no consequences to his actions or his word. How unpleasant is this? On a separate note, I wonder how the third mayoral candidate, Mark Adams, feels about this? Bill Kelly Stevensville

Re: Burnt Fork Place apartment complex

I have a lot of concerns and unanswered questions about this project. This biggest concern is the high water table on the building site. My property borders the project and I don’t want to have to worry more about crawl space water because of the increase in the large footprint of the buildings and paved parking areas reducing absorption area. The Human Resource Council representative says this is not subsidized housing. Really? Where does all the grant money come from? That’s right, the taxpayers. Who’s going to make up the 10% loss of value in the neighborhood properties because of this development? Several studies have shown that when a development of this type goes in it affects property values in negative way. The developers say this is a tax credit project. For who and for how long? Will there be an onsite manager? Who’s responsible to keep the grounds from becoming a storage yard for non functioning vehicles and accumulating junk? Since there will be housing available for victims of domestic violence, how much additional law enforcement presence will be required? Domestic violence victims usually have continued problems with the instigator, requiring police intervention. I speak from experience as a former law enforcement officer. Most of these questions could have been addressed at the “comment meeting,” but the Mayor said, “no questions, just comments.” We could question Jim Morton, the representative from the HRC, after the comment portion was concluded, which meant the questions and answers would be not recorded for public record. It may be noted that only one person commented in favor of the project. Some of the interactions with Mr. Morton became rather “animated.” What I took away from the questions asked and answered was, to paraphrase Mr. Morton – it’s our property and we can do what we want with it. They appear to have no interest in the desires or concerns of the local area residents affected by this

Bitterroot Star -- Page 5

project. As a resident and taxpayer I’m very concerned that our elected town officials spend more time fighting among themselves than they do tending to business that directly affects their constituents. Dave Thorson Stevensville

Why I support Brandon Dewey

1. Brandon is Stevensville First: He has dedicated his entire lifetime to service of not only individuals in our community, but to the community as a whole, serving on the Stevensville Fire Department, as a bus driver, and now, as the Mayor of this great community. 2. Brandon sees Stevensville’s Future: He plans for the future of the community by searching out and discovering new ways for our local government to run, instead of being a mayor that just attends meetings and signs checks, he spends his days seeking ways for our community to grow and be prepared for further growth. 3. Brandon honors Stevensville’s Past: Outside of his mayoral office, he spends his time with other civic organizations in an attempt to preserve the heritage that makes Stevensville great, these include the former Main Street Association, the Civic Club, Project 59870, among others. 4. Brandon sees beyond the town limits: By understanding that what the local government does within the limits of town affects those businesses and homes that are outside of town and looks out for those that aren’t only in Stevensville Proper, but also in Greater Stevensville, otherwise known as the rest of 59870. 5. Brandon has stood against his opponents and has withstood the fire: For the last year and a half of his holding office, Brandon has stood his ground and has not waivered when challenged by his opponents, to include when I showed as an opponent to his policies. I am proud to have him as the mayor of this community because he does not let the people that have tried to shoot him down, hold him back, or “take him to the gallows” stop him. Brandon is not a perfect person, nor does he claim to be, neither am I. Brandon has done more for this community in the five years that I have been here than any other person that has held the same office based on stories that I have been told. There is a little known fact that has not been spread as widely as the recall attempt, and that is, if this recall is to be passed, you, the people will not have a say in who the next mayor is. The only choice you have is either for the recall or against the recall. If the recall passes, the council will have to decide the future mayor, with a 30-day interim period where the council president sits in that seat; and if there is not a candidate that is selected by the council, then that person will remain in that seat. Dempsey H. Vick, II Stevensville

Citizen concerns

I am writing to express my deep concerns over my first experience in attending a town hall council meeting here in Stevensville, MT last Thursday evening (6/25/20) at the Stevensville public library. I had never attended a community meeting before and I was shocked and appalled when my husband and I first entered the doors and had to be frisked by local police officers. I felt like I was actually at the airport being frisked by TSA! I later learned that the police officers were there at the request of the town hall council members and the mayor, which also baffled me. I then sat and listened to two council members bash another council member about Facebook posts and texts, which I had no idea what they were talking about. I felt like I was back in high school with the town bully (the mayor) and these other two council members (unknown names) pushing out another counSee LETTERS, page 8

Calendar

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Hamilton Senior Center meals

Hamilton Senior Center is preparing meals for take out on the following schedule: Monday, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. call in to order meals for the week. Thursday, pick up between 12 noon and 1 p.m. For orders and info: 3635181.

AA meetings

Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.

Al-Anon

Stevensville Al-Anon Family Group meets each Thursday at 7:15 p.m. in or near the picnic shelter north of the parking lot at Lewis and Clark Park. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 239-0878.

Narcotics Anon

Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).

Free Indeed

Free Indeed is a faith-based addiction support group. Contact Donald Layman at 203-8579 or Pastor Jim Landis at 642-9849.

Gamblers Anon

Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.

WIC clinics

Ravalli County WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. Income guidelines are 1-$23,107; 2- $31,284; 3-$39,461; 4-$47,638; 5-$55,815. For each additional family member add $8,177. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Facebook; www. facebook.com/Ravalli-CountyWIC.

Family Shelter

The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.

Senior shuttle

The BitterRoot Bus will be running a 6:30 a.m. Shuttle for Seniors and people with compromised immune systems on Tuesdays and Thursdays until further notice. This bus will be for seniors to get to Albertsons for 7 to 9 a.m. senior shopping. Call the BitterRoot Bus at 363-7484 to schedule your ride. You must call in advance!

Wednesday Farmers Market

A farmers market is held every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. starting June 3rd at 111 s. 4th Street in Hamilton.

Three Mile bingo

Bingo is held every first and third Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Three Mile Community/Senior Center, 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Proceeds go to build a new center. For information call 7773710.

Three Mile Coffee Club Three Mile Coffee Club meets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For information call Colleen at 777-3710.

Bike, Walk, Roll

2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN. Get motivated to move this summer with a chance to win prizes with the 2020 Bike, Walk, Roll & WIN virtual health incentive program by MSU Extension in Ravalli County. From June 1-August 31, 2020, log electronically all of the times you engage in physical activity - each activity is eligible for a entry into the prize raffle. The program is free and open to residents of Ravalli County over the age of 18. Learn more by calling the MSU Extension Office at 375-6611 or visiting online at http://ravalli.msuextension.org/healthandwellness.html

Story Time

Are you desperately missing your Library Story Times? Fret no more- you can join Annika from North Valley Public Library for Story Time Live Online! on Wednesdays in June at 10:3010:45 a.m. for this North Valley Public Library online program. Come enjoy fun stories, a quick early literacy activity, and a creative craft idea. Visit the website to register for this event. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Stevensville •• 777-0028 360-2661 203Main MainSt.• Stevensville

Worship at 12:0011p.m. Sunday Worship AM In this Church there shall be no outcasts. In this Church there shall be no outcasts. charge for each day is $1.00. There must be a cell tower within range. Your computer, tablet, or smart phone must be WiFi compatible. Hotspots are filtered for content. Please conserve data usage for the next patron. Director Denise Ard says, “Hotspots are easy to use and we have included simple instructions to help you get connected. We are happy to be able to offer hotspots to our patrons that do not have internet at home.” NVPL can only check out hotspots to its card holders but other libraries will have hotspots as well, thanks to the Montana State Library. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For a list of current library services check the website at northvalleylibrary.org.

Model railroad display cancelled

The Bitterroot Valley Model Railroad Club (BVMRR) will not be running trains on First Fridays until further notice because of current COVID-19 health concerns. It is too difficult to properly monitor visitor spacing in the layout site and have younger visitors not handle areas around the trains. The club hopes to start up again after Labor Day if the situation permits.

St. Mary’s Mission, Museum open Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum is open for the 2020 season. COVID-19 health guidelines for the safety of the staff and the public are in place. You’re invited to visit the Mission for a guided tour of the historic buildings. The museum and art gallery in the Visitor Center are free for you to browse. A featured exhibit is an antique toy display. The gift shop has many new Made in Montana gift items. Hours are Tuesday through Saturday from 11 to 3 with the last tour at 2 p.m. Call 777-5734 for information.

Rubber Duck Reading Club and Free summer Book Bingo for meal program Kids & Teens St. Mary’s Mission Parish Spend the summer reading and win fabulous prizes from June 8-August 10! Register for Rubber Duck Reading Club and Book Bingo on the Library’s website or call the Library. Rubber Duck Reading Club and Book Bingo materials will be available for curbside pickup starting on Monday, June 1, just call! Or you can print materials on the Library’s website. The Rubber Duck Reading Club is suitable for ages 0-4 and Book Bingo is suitable for ages 5-18. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.

WiFi hotspots at library

Do you need internet at your house to look for a job, apply for unemployment or a fishing license, fill out the 2020 Census? North Valley Library now has internet hotspots to check out. A hotspot is a small box that brings a WiFi signal into your home so you can use the internet. Hotspots can be checked out for seven days only. The overdue

announces the sponsorship of the Simplified Summer Food Program for children. Meals will be made available at no charge to attending children 18 years of age and younger who have enrolled in the programs. Children who are members of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) assistance units, or households receiving Food Distribution Programs on Indian Reservations (FDPIR) benefits are automatically eligible to receive free meal benefits at eligible program sites (enrolled summer programs or residential summer camps). Other children from families whose income is at or below the levels in the following table are also eligible for free meal benefits if enrolled in the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) program at Stevensville and Victor schools through the Summer Food Service Program. Meals will be distributed at the following location: • St. Mary’s Mission Parish Family Center • June 8 through August 14

• Meals can be picked up between 10:00 and 11:00 am at the side entrance of the Family Center. Contact St. Mary’s Parish Office for more information at: (406) 777-5257. St. Mary’s Mission Parish also supports the Comprehensive School and Community Treatment (CSCT) programs in Stevensville and Victor by providing sack lunches to the enrolled children while they are in session.

Child care help available

Are you earning less right now due to reduced work hours? If you were previously over income, you may now qualify for child care assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship. We encourage you to call us today to find out if you are eligible! Eligibility is for 12 months, so if you qualify now, you will be eligible for the whole year, even if your hours increase again. Contact Child Care Resources today to see if you qualify at 406728-6446 or go to childcareresources.org.

Wednesday, July 8 BRHA board meeting

The Bitter Root Humane Association will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, July 8 at 5 p.m. in the HRC Building meeting room at 316 N. Third Street (corner of Pine and North 3rd Street - east alley entrance), Hamilton. The public is welcome to attend, but seating is limited and all entering must wear masks due to the recent increase in COVID19 in our community.

Thursday, July 9 Fire and climate change lecture

The Bitterroot Climate Action Group is trying something new— a public lecture using Zoom! The group will present Phil Higuera speaking on Thursday, July 9 at 7 p.m. on “Fire and Climate Change in the West.” Higuera is an associate professor of fire ecology at the University of Montana, where he directs the PaleoEcology and Fire Ecology Lab (www.cfc.umt. edu/research/paleoecologylab) and teaches courses on fire and disturbance ecology. Research in his lab focuses on understanding the interactions among climate, vegetation, and wildfire activity over a range of scales of time and place, in the past, present, and future. Phil’s talk draws upon current scientific research that helps us understand the relationships between climate change and wildfire activity, with a regional focus on the Northern Rockies. Topics include context from the past, the causes and ecological impacts of recent increases in fire activity, expectations for the future, and what we can do in response. This talk is free and open to the public, however, advanced registration is required; register here: https://tinyurl.com/FireAndClimateChange After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about how to join the talk. To participate, you will need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a decent internet connection. If you have not used Zoom before, log on 5 minutes early to make sure your device has the required software or app.

Friday, July 10 Blood drives

This July, the American Red Cross and WONDER WOMAN 1984 are joining forces to save the day for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. The Red Cross has an urgent need for blood donors this summer, as the COVID-19 pandemic has caused unprecedented supply challenges amid this uncertain environment. Additionally, despite states lifting stay-at-home orders and reopening, many blood drives at

businesses and community organizations continue to be cancelled as these locations remain closed or restrict the number of individuals at any location. As part of the partnership, the Red Cross is organizing an epic prop replica giveaway from the new Warner Bros. Pictures film WONDER WOMAN 1984, due to hit theaters nationwide on October 2, to thank those who roll up a sleeve and help patients battling illness and injury. Those who present to donate July 1-31 will automatically be entered for a chance to win an authentic WONDER WOMAN 1984 movie prop replica package, which includes the Golden Lasso and a pair of Gauntlets, identical to WONDER WOMAN’s from the film. Now is the time to help patients fight back. If you are feeling well, please make an appointment to give by using the Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. “In times of crisis, new superheroes often emerge, and new alliances are forged. The Red Cross is thrilled to partner with WONDER WOMAN 1984 to encourage and thank fans and blood donors alike for being superheroes for patients in need by giving blood in July,” said Paul Sullivan, senior vice president of the American Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Blood donors have a unique super power—lifesaving blood. Blood cannot be manufactured, and donors are the only source for patients in need.” Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs blood—kids battling cancer, accident victims being raced into emergency rooms, and new moms with complicated childbirths. Unfortunately, superheroes are in short supply as only 3 out of 100 Americans donate blood. While tens of thousands of donors gave blood in response to an initial blood shortage caused by this coronavirus outbreak, it’s important to remember that red blood cells must be transfused within 42 days of donation, and platelets within just five days, so they must constantly be replenished. Upcoming blood donation opportunities: Hamilton 7/14/2020: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Grace Lutheran Church, 275 Hattie Lane Missoula 7/10/2020: 11 a.m. - 4 p.m., Southgate Mall, 2901 Brooks 7/13/2020: 12 p.m. - 5 p.m., Living Savior Lutheran Church, 4616 Gharrett St 7/15/2020: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., First Interstate Bank, 101 East Front Street, PO Box 4667 7/17/2020: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m., Charter College, 1930 Brooks St Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control. Donors are asked to schedule an appointment prior to arrival and are required to wear a face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with Centers for Disease Control public guidance. Donors can save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/ RapidPass or use the Red Cross Blood Donor App. In most states, individuals who are 17 years of age (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood.

Monday, July 13 Summer program Sapphire Early Learning Center Summer Program will take place July 13 through August 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. Kids 6-12 years of age are welcome. Part-time or full-time enrollment available. Fun-themed weeks include sci-

ence, art, engineering, and cooking. Hosted at Stevensville United Methodist Church, 216 College St. Contact 406-777-5443 or sapphireelc@gmail.com to enroll and get more info.

Tuesday, July 14 Stevensville school board

The Stevensville School Board of Trustees will hold a regular board meeting on Tuesday, July 14 at 7 p.m. in the Stevensville Music Center Choir Room.

Wednesday, July 15 RCEDA

The Ravalli County Economic Development Authority Finance Committee will meet Wednesday, July 15 at 2:15 p.m., followed by a Board meeting at 3:00 p.m. The meetings will take place at the RCEDA Conference Room located at 274 Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. Both meetings are open to the public.

Sunday, July 19 Music at the Mission

Music at the Mission will take place Sunday, July 19 at 7 p.m. at Historic St. Mary’s Mission, 315 Charlos Street, Stevensville. Enjoy the great local music of Sunrise in the serene setting at Historic St. Mary’s Mission. Bring your lawn chairs for an evening in the fresh mountain air. Apple pie and ice cream will be served. Donations are welcome in support of Historic St. Mary’s Mission and Museum. Call 777-5734 for more information.

Saturday, July 25 Annual Antiques Auction

Bid on historical items donated by patrons, and own a piece of history! Sales will benefit the exhibits, educational programming, and activities offered at Ravalli County Museum. You can also take a peek at the plethora of antiques on July 24, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and July 25, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. before you make your bid! Ravalli County Museum is located at 205 Bedford, Hamilton, phone (406)363-3338.

Saturday, August 15 Birdies for Books golf tourney

Hole sponsors, teams, and silent auction items are still needed for Birdies for Books, the 2nd Annual NVPL Golf Scramble, set for Saturday, Aug. 15, at Whitetail Golf Course in Stevensville. The proceeds from this year’s event will be used to renovate the sidewalk area outside the North Valley Public Library’s community room. The golf tournament will begin with an 8 a.m. check-in and a 9 a.m. shotgun start for the ninehole scramble, followed by lunch, awards, and a silent auction. Cost is $150 for each team of four, and this year’s play is limited to nine teams. Prizes will include $150 for first place, golf swag for second place, and other awards for a Hole in One, Longest Putt, Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin. The cost to sponsor a hole is $300, which gives the donor a charitable tax deduction and their personal or business name at the hole and on the NVPL Foundation website. Registration forms are available in Stevensville at the golf course, 4295 Wild Fowl Lane; Fireside Pizza, and the North Valley Public Library, 208 Main St. To sponsor a hole, donate an item, or for more information, contact Amy Horlacher at amybhorlacher@gmail.com or (480) 332-8737 or Jody Torrey at jodymarietorrey@gmail.com or (406) 274-8454.

Bitterroot Star -- Page 7

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Stevensville graduate competes on Titan Games

By Jean Schurman

One of the few sports shows on television right now that is not a rerun is the show “The Titan Games.” The show features headto-head physical competitions such as pushing and or pulling a wall, using a sledge hammer to break up a chain, climbing a pole and other physical activities. This year, Margaux Alvarez, formerly of Stevensville, is one of the competitors. Alvarez graduated from Stevensville High School in 2003. During her time as a Yellowjacket, she competed in volleyball and golf. But, she said, she spent a lot of time in the outdoors, hiking and enjoying the Montana lifestyle. After graduation, she attended school in Hawaii and found more ways to test her strength. While there, she did outrigger canoe paddling, and found other ways to maintain her physical strength. In 2008, her sister Kerstin died in a car accident. After that, Alvarez’s life changed. She devoted her time and energy to

becoming a fitness coach. She was involved in CrossFit and found an outlet in that as well. The high intensity of CrossFit appealed to her. She said it is a functional fitness and increased her body awareness in getting stronger, more fit, and having more endurance. She went on to compete in the CrossFit games seven times and in 2018, finished first on the “Marathon Row” event. Alvarez tried out for American Ninja Warrior in 2018 but didn’t get selected to compete in that series. However, the producers of American Ninja Warrior is the same producers for the Titan Games. They contacted her and asked if she would try out for the Titan Games. She had been increasing her strength workouts to include stones, heavy ‘D’ bells, sledge hammer work, and a lot of pulling, swinging, and climbing walls. She had done a few Spartan races and she felt these activities would make her more competitive in the Titan Games. Alvarez was one of 30 women who competed for a spot

Margaux Alvarez used to work out six or seven hours a day but now works out about two hours and then focuses on her wine business. in the televised games for the West Division. She was selected to be one of 18 for the televised games. Last week, she competed in the Mt. Olympus challenge and won.

On Monday night, she competed in the West Regional Finals. (Results were not in at press time, check bitterrootstar.com for results.)

But there is more to Alvarez than working out all of the time. She and her husband, Alex Cardenas, now live in Las Vegas where

they are pursuing another passion, that of winemaking. Using grapes sourced from the area around Paso Robles, California, the couple have built up a business in the California and Las Vegas area. They are hoping to eventually bring their wine to Montana as well. Their label, The G.O.A.T. Wine (Greatest Of All Time) is a red blend wine that is their signature brand. Alvarez felt that the move to Las Vegas would help with increasing the demand for the wine.They also pay homage to Kerstin Alvarez with a red blend wine that features a painting of a purple tree that Kerstin painted. The name of that wine is Kerstin. Alvarez said she will be coming ‘home’ to Montana the end of July and will be here and in Missoula for a few days. She hopes to see old acquaintances and get into the mountains for a few hikes. She is thankful she is able to combine her passions of fitness and wine into a lifestyle and wants to encourage others to do so as well. The Titan Games are giving her the chance to do that.

The Truth About the Recall

These days, trying to find the truth about the reasons to recall our mayor is like finding a needle in a haystack.

If we go back to the very beginning of Mayor Dewey’s term, we will find many, many things that our various town council members and the mayor have disagreed upon. Rightly so. That is why we have a Mayor and Town Council. These are the folks we elected to represent us, fight for us and keep our town running smoothly. We elect these folks to bring to the table differences of opinion, willingness to debate, and ultimately, the majority wins. If you walk around town, you will find many people on both sides of the fence willing to speak their mind on any number of things they think council members or the mayor have done wrong. The funny (sad?) fact is, not one of these topics is the reason for the recall. A citizen of Stevensville went out and collected enough signatures to recall our mayor over an IT contract. You will hear pro-recall folks say that the mayor did not have the authority to sign such a contract. You will hear anti-recall folks say that the mayor did have the authority. Each side can cite rules which can be interpreted in various ways. Here is a summary of what this is all about: • It is a fact that the town council has to approve contracts for the town. For those of you that need to see it - it is Section 2-59-7 (b) • It is a fact that in 2015, the rules were updated to state that Professional Services were excluded from the contracts that needed council approval. For those that need to see it - it is section 2-59-7 (b)(ii). • It is a fact that the 2020-2021 budget, approved by the town council, included a line item for these IT services. The argument seems to be whether these IT services are in fact a contract that should have been approved by the council (7-b), or whether these IT services are in fact Professional Services that would be excluded (7-b-ii), giving the mayor (as department head) the ability to move forward without council approval. Thankfully, we have a town attorney that we pay to settle disagreements just like this. We pay this person to look at laws that none of us folks want to and tell us what it right. Our town attorney looked at this situation, and all of the rules and laws and arguments, came to our council meeting on 03/12/2020 and told everyone that in this instance, the IT contract signed by the mayor was not illegal. It was not an official ruling, as he is not a judge, it was the opinion that we pay him to give. Still, the recall folks went ahead and said let’s spend more town money on a recall election for this very topic. Here’s one last item to ponder before we go to the polls: This IT contract that our mayor signed for the town of Stevensville was signed to protect us. Do you realize the amount of personal information that is stored on the computers in town hall? Police records, court records, names and addresses of everyone in town that pays water, sewer, taxes, etc. and social security numbers of every current and past employee. Without this IT contract, all of our personal information is vulnerable. If our town was ever hacked, our water treatment plant could be compromised. Imagine the amount of money from lawsuits if our personal information was stolen. The recall states that the contract was for $79,800 but fails to tell you that it covers multiple years (3), and included a one time “start up” fee. This contract can be cancelled if the services are not up to our standards. It may sound like a large number, but according to Google, there are 1,967 people that live in Stevensville. If you do the math, it is $26,600/year and $13.52 per citizen. We are being asked to recall our mayor because he signed a contract that the town attorney said broke no rules. These folks asking for the recall think your personal information is not worth $13.52 year. Please think about that before voting. paid for by Sue Devlin

Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star

Letters continued

cil member. Talk about a hostile environment! I was also surprised to see the local news at this meeting? I later learned that the council member on the offense was recently voted in by the residents of Stevensville on two occasions. What is happening to our country when people that are voted into a position by the residents can be thrown out by the mayor?! I would expect this type of conduct in a school yard, but not at what was supposed to be a public “PROFESSIONAL” meeting? I watched as the mayor, who appeared to be power hungry, voted with his two side kicks to oust this other individual, but failed to show that he had the power to do so. I then proceeded to speak about a fireworks permit, which was my primary reason for being there, and the mayor’s first response was to tell me that “this was not a question and answer forum.” Talk about being on a power trip! He then stated that although he did not have to answer my question, he did sign the fireworks permit. I thought, “Not a question and answer forum!” Then why have a meeting at all. Aren’t leaders (mayors) supposed to engage with their residents and have an open dialogue about resolving issues together? Why even have a meeting or even elected officials if there is no open communication? I came away from this one time meeting feeling very sad about the community. The mean spirited attitudes displayed by these council members shocked me and caused me to lose hope in our country and our community leaders. I didn’t expect this type of behavior and sabotage in such a small town like Stevensville, MT. This country that I love is being torn apart town by town, which saddens me. I only recently moved to Montana from a large city and was hoping to find things different here, sadly they are not. Witness-

ing the behavior of the mayor and him allowing his two town council members to behave in such a mean spirited, unprofessional and attacking manner toward another member has made a lasting impression on me, a negative impression. In my brief observation of the mayor, I see that his only concern is for power and control, which is not an admirable trait for someone in a position of authority. And for these reasons, I will be voting to recall the mayor in August. Janet Pruitt Stevensville

Harassment

Harassment: Definition from Webster’s Dictionary: noun: harassment; plural noun: harassments aggressive pressure or intimidation. The resignation of yet ANOTHER Town Clerk must be addressed by this town. Are we really going to sit back and watch another Clerk leave citing harassment from council members, their family and friends? Isn’t the current letter from Monica Hoffman clear enough that the unbearable working conditions are NOT coming from Mayor Dewey but from the Council President himself, and his former colleague and friend Jim Crews. How much more are we going to take from this group of angry people acting like children because they didn’t get their way? Residents of Stevensville, please come together and vocalize your frustration with this situation. One lawsuit is pending. Can Stevensville afford another? Ashley Mae Kalispell

Mayor needs to go

The Mayor of Stevensville is really messing up. He is ramrodding the Nicole Court development through without any regard to the citizens of Stevensville. He held a public meeting for “comments only.” He has said several times that this project is a done deal. It is obvious to us that he

Wednesday, July 8, 2020 does not work for the citizens of Stevensville. Who DOES the Mayor work for? Since we live in the neighborhood, our greatest concern is the water issue. But the issue is so much deeper than just the surface water. Literally speaking, the deep ground water is just as important as the surface water because the water table is just below the surface. Once these people bring their excavators in to bury the water lines, sewer lines, phone lines, and power lines, what happens to the ground water when that subsurface is disturbed? Bear in mind that in the spring the water table is only 3 or 4 feet below the surface. Does it magically disappear? The engineers (who don’t even live here) say that it will all be taken care of. Of course, it will be dry as a bone when they install all the utilities in September. What about March when the snow melt raises the water table to the surface? Add to that the spring rains and what have you got? The City had to run a pump at the intersection of Pine Street and Eastside Highway in the spring of 2019 because of the runoff water. The people like the Mayor and the engineers who do not live in the neighborhood would say that was an unusual event but was it? Every year it gets wet in this neighborhood. Then again, it only takes one unusual event to cause major problems (Does anyone remember 1996?). Contrary to popular opinion, when a disaster happens not just the neighborhood but all the taxpayers of Stevensville get to pay for the cleanup. We feel the Mayor does not have the experience or the integrity to oversee a project like this. He needs to go. Bent Laursen Stevensville

aware of the ground water situation. It’s a routine that becomes all too familiar every spring to pump the crawlspace under the house. When Rod Lewis built those storage units to the east, the water just came in that much more. The developers told us there won’t be any more water than before. Do they really expect us to believe that? They say they are still working with the DEQ on surface water mitigation but they don’t say that that really means. The engineer at the public meeting said they were storing the surface water on the property. What kind of a storage facility are they going to install and who will pay for its maintenance down the road and who is going to pay for the cleanup when it fails? Speaking of water, the sewage treatment plant is at capacity. Who will pay for the upgrades that will soon be needed, the taxpayers of Stevensville? All these questions need to be answered. But the biggest question is why is the Mayor trying to shove this project down our throats? It never went before the planning and zoning board or the Town Council for review. All the rest of the residential developments were scrutinized much more than this has been. Why is that? The Mayor says they meet

the codes and there is nothing to be done to stop this. Well, we are sure the developers met the same codes in both Darby and Hamilton and both of those cities shut down these apartments. The citizens of Stevensville had a right to have a hand in the future of this town. The Mayor liked to speak in declarative sentences. We have a declarative sentence. The Mayor needs to be recalled. Jane Schutz Stevensville

Hooray for Gibney!

Thanks to Dee Gibney (Star 7/1/2020) for pointing out the irrationality of expecting Caucasian citizens to bear responsibility for the wrongs done by prior generations (to whom we may not even be related) to Africans (or Chinese, or Irish, or native Americans, or any other group) in the past. As the Bible says, children should not be punished for their parents’ wrongdoing nor vice versa. As far as widespread prejudice and mistreatment today, it is a myth. No group is being systematically denied opportunity in our nation today; instead most “minority groups” have been given

special treatment and enhanced opportunities. Some seize that opportunity and succeed, and some refuse to join the American economic and social system and as a result stay locked in poverty and dependency, or follow a life of crime and antisocial behavior. The American experiment and system of governance has (and still does) work better than any other form of government in history. To destroy it, dramatically alter it or replace it is idiocy. What’s wrong with our nation is not our governmental system - it is the quality and motivation of our citizens and leaders. Where did common sense, personal responsibility, patriotism and love of country, justice, community spirit and altruism disappear to? Instead greed, partisanship, dishonesty, irresponsibility, selfishness, escapism, treachery and laziness reign. Those traits produce an ungovernable mob; no equitable form of government can generate quality of life from that stew. What is the answer? As our coins say, trust in God and ask Him to change each of us into the person we ought to be. Stephen McKenzie Hamilton See LETTERS, page 10

Mayor should be recalled

The new proposed Burnt Fork Place Apartments (formerly Nicole Court) is of much concern. We who live in the area are very

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Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Bitterroot Star -- Page 9

Yet another Stevensville town clerk resigns

By Michael Howell

Stevensville Town Clerk Monica Hoffman has submitted a letter of resignation claiming harassment and an unhealthy working environment which she says was created by Council President Bob Michalson and his “friends and family.” Hoffman wrote, “While I tried very hard to weather the storm of negativity and hostility, I simply do not have the energy or strength to continue to listen to more lies, defend myself and subject myself to the existing working conditions at Town Hall. Further, I cannot work for an organization where certain members of the legislative branch outwardly and vocally do not support staff or the Mayor.” One of her concerns, she states, is that she is now the third clerk in about two and half years to resign due to the bad behavior and rude treatment of staff. “Because of this, I am providing several examples that would not normally be included in a resignation letter, in hopes that the next Clerk is not subject to the same rude, insulting and unbearable working conditions,” she wrote. Hoffman said that she and other staff have been harassed for months by a small handful of citizens involved in facilitating the mayor’s recall effort and she names some of them. Among them is Leanna Rodabaugh who submitted the recall petition. She alleges that Rodabaugh “constantly posts on Facebook comments that are half-truths, twisted facts, outright lies, and cruel in nature against my supervisor, Mayor Brandon Dewey and staff.” “The final straw happened on June 30th,” wrote Hoffman, “when Council member Bob Michalson hand delivered to me a letter filed against me by citizen Jim Crews. Ironically, Mr. Crews is well known at Town Hall for constantly harassing staff for years. Mr. Crews usually calls requesting information, complaining about everything and sending

employees on wild goose chases. They usually are for little things such as, I received an advertisement in the mail, can you check to see if they have a business license or there are flyers on the light poles on Main St, remove them or sharing another situation that he feels is against code or something staff or the Mayor did that he feels is against the law. While these situations described are legitimate, the tone and agenda behind these calls are not acceptable. No one should have to be constantly yelled at and belittled, as Town Hall employees are by Mr. Crews. Mr. Crews and his friends have this belief that we, as staff are supposed to drop what we are doing to attend to his/their wants and needs, every other day.” “In summary,” she wrote, “I can no longer work in unhealthy working conditions created by the Council President and his family and friends. I believe you, as the Mayor, have tried to help, but understand that you have no control over what Council President Bob Michalson or certain citizens say or do.” Hoffman’s resignation is effective on July 15, 2020. The letter from Crews that Hoffman is referring to is basically a complaint against the Clerk for the way in which she responded to an email from Crews. The email was sent to the clerk, the mayor, council members and the town’s attorney and complains that a motion made by councilor Vick at the last meeting was in violation of council rules regarding the limitation on the length of public comment and council rules governing suspension of council rules. He states that the suspension of rules must concern a matter that is not of significant public interest. He claims the item being considered was of significant public interest. He asked that it be corrected and signed the email “Jim Crews, Private American Citizen.” Hoffman responded: “Dear Private American Citizen Jim Crews, We, the administration appreciates all citizen’s concerns

about how meeting rules are followed and behaviors of all participants. At this time, we will consider your concern, along with many, many others. The behavior of many citizens and our own council could be considered disrespectful to many and unlawful. Have a good weekend.” In his letter of complaint Crews says the clerk “responded in a manner that that I consider obnoxious, conceited, autocratic and imperious in manner.” He found the introduction “Dear Private American Citizen Jim Crews” to be “condescending in nature.” He said “it simply means that I am acting as a Private American Citizen and nothing more,” he wrote. “Her response, ‘We, the administration…’ clearly signifies an imperious or autocratic attitude that is unsuitable for the position of Town Clerk,” he wrote. As for her comment that “many citizens and some council members could be disrespectful to many and unlawful,” he states he has not seen Chief Marble charge anyone

for any crime committed at any council meeting, “so I have to ask the clerk what aspect of citizen behavior and that of the council are unlawful?” Crews states that the clerk’s actions violate the Personnel Policy manual and amount to insubordination. He asked that she be charged with those violations, as well as for violations of the Professionalism Policy. Council President Bob Michalson said that he did not really have a comment about the resignation letter. “Unless she files a formal complaint against me it’s just a PSA [public service announcement], just talk,” said Michalson. “Unless she goes through the proper channels other than just saying I harassed her or whoever harassed her, I really have nothing to say on it. If she filed a formal complaint I would respond to it, otherwise that’s all I can tell you.” Former councilman and mayor Jim Crews denied that he has ever harassed the clerk or

anyone else. He said he had been to town hall only one time to pay his water bill and attended two council meetings. “Anytime I called town hall it was simply for business,” said Crews. “I didn’t yell at anybody. I talk loud sometimes. To be honest with you I believe Mrs. Hoffman is full of crap. Even in her resignation letter she said that my complaints were legitimate. So I don’t know what the big deal is. I didn’t harass anyone.” He said that he was himself being harassed and even threatened on the internet. He said a woman on the Moving Stevensville Forward website was calling on others to get together and go to his house. He said they didn’t come, but he was going to take some action on that. “I didn’t do anything wrong. I don’t know what to say. I only went to town hall on business, but when the clerk responds to you on email making snide remarks or a very condescending attitude, I take offense to that and I said something about it. I followed the code

of conduct. I reported the misbehavior and I did it in the way that was proper through the council so the council could talk to the mayor about it.” Crews said that the whole thing started when they had an agenda item that was not complete, and he was trying to get the clerk to include the information in the agenda and “I got stonewalled on it. They basically denied the right of the public to see what was going to be discussed. They never did publish it for the public.” He said it was about a change order for HDR Engineering that never was approved by the council and he wanted to get that out to the public. A lawsuit filed against the town by previous town clerk Audrey Tribbensee is still winding its way through the court. Tribbensee is seeking up to $500,000 in fees, costs, and damages from the town for harassment and “intolerable” working conditions. She, too, points a finger at Council President Bob Michalson.

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Page 10 -- Bitterroot Star

Letters continued

All lives matter!

Of course they do. The point of saying “Black Lives Matter” and “Native Lives Matter” and “POC Lives Matter” (POC = People of Color) these days is that those parts of our society are suffering particularly, have been at a disadvantage for a very long time, and are often ignored, even though they are every bit as American as the rest of us -- or more-so, for that matter. I just saw a celebrity on YouTube point out that people who insist on saying “All Lives Matter” would be the same people who would have interrupted Jesus at the Sermon on the Mount when he said “Blessed are the poor” to say “Blessed are all people.” Of course all lives matter! At last we are being asked to recognize that through our lives and actions. “Liberty and Justice for ALL.” Mary Fahnestock-Thomas Hamilton

The lie of systemic racism

I agree with Mr. Henry Fowler concerning his letter “The lie of systemic racism.” I am tired of being expected to apologize for my whiteness as I had nothing to do with whatever race that I was born into same as the black race. For a race that has its own black caucus in Congress, black clubs and BLM, they sure do enjoy calling everyone else racist. I detest the title “African American” as not a one of them are from Africa. I would think it is demeaning to them as if I were in their shoes, I would wish to be known as “American.” I would not wish to be known as an African American, Asian American, Hispanic American, but just as an American from America. One should have pride in their individual heritage but how long could white individuals have their own exclusive clubs or white caucus in Congress before being called out for being racist? It has been reported that under the Great Society, the brain child of LBJ, we have expended some $21T to fight poverty and improve the lives of people with hardly any success. David Stover Stevensville

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Conservative Christians need to pay attention With two recent anti-Christian decisions from a supposedly “conservative” Supreme Court, it’s time for conservative Christians to start paying attention. We are living in a post-Christian America. While “June Medical Services LLC v. Russo,” which overturned a Louisiana abortion law, did not change federal abortion law, “Bostock v. Clayton County” changed the meaning of “sex” in Title VII (Equal Employment Opportunity) of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include “sexual orientation and gender identity.” That means that the anti-discrimination protections afforded to women under federal employment law must be extended to homosexuals and transgendered people because discrimination against them is discrimination “on the basis of sex.” In a previous letter (“Equality Act threatens our freedoms,” May 13, 2020), I warned about the Equality Act, passed by the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives in May 2019. By redefining “sex” to include “sexual orientation and gender identity,” the Supreme Court has done what the Equality Act would have done

if it became law. And by redefining “sex” to include “sexual orientation and gender identity,” the Supreme Court has declared that homosexuality and transgenderism are the same as race. If you disagree, you are on the same moral and legal level as a racist. This is no longer just the opinion of Democratic lawmakers or columnists at The New York Times. This is now the law of the land. And if you think it might be a bad idea for biological males to compete against your daughter in the high school girls’ sports teams, or that biological males do not belong in your daughter’s or wife’s locker room, or even if you dissent from gender ideology at all, then you are also on the same moral and legal level as a racist. And if you voted for Initiative 96 in 2004, along with 67 percent of your fellow Montanans, which amended the Montana Constitution to prevent same-sex marriages from being conducted or recognized in Montana, then you are also on the same moral and legal level as a racist. And if you express the opinion in the workplace that marriage is between a man and a woman or that a person’s sex is determined at birth, or if you refuse to use someone’s preferred pronouns,

then you may be accused of sexual harassment for creating a “hostile work environment.” The Religious Freedom Restoration Act will not protect your religious liberty because a provision of the Equality Act nullifies the RFRA where it comes in conflict with sexual orientation and gender identity. For valuable guidance to conservative Christians, read Rod Dreher’s blog and his books, “The Benedict Option” and “Live Not By Lies.” And for the end of the conservative legal project, see US Senator Josh Hawley’s speech on June 16, 2020. He was one of only three Republican Senators who stood up to oppose the passage of the Equality Act by unanimous consent. Where was Senator Steve Daines? Henry Fowler Stevensville

Matter of life and death

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following is clearly stated by Article IX of the Montana State Constitution: “The Legislature shall provide adequate remedies for the protection of the environmental life support system from degradation and provide adequate remedies to prevent unreasonable depletion and degradation of natural resources.” Our Montana Constitution demands this! The Montana Legislature should be taking all necessary steps to protect Montana’s native invertebrate species, which are absolutely essential to Montana’s environmental life support system. Insects, especially, are extremely vital natural resources, without which most of the vertebrate species on which we depend for survival will go extinct, and then so will we. Government officials in Helena can’t tell me who protects native insects and other invertebrates in Montana. MDFWP doesn’t! The survival of you and your family, other mammals, fish, amphibians, reptiles and birds totally depend on the survival of native insects and other native invertebrates. It is important for everyone, especially children, to ask for Montana’s extremely beneficial native invertebrates to be protected before it is too late! Judy Hoy Stevensville

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Bitterroot Star -- Page 11

It’s busting loose – all at once There comes that time, every year, when the river drops into ever-increasing fishable shape after runoff, the water temperatures warm up just a bit more, and the trout go from moderately active to berserk. It ‘s beginning to happen now – and should continue for a couple of weeks. The river is full, cool and clear. Wading spots are opening up as water levels recede. Float-

Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan ing is getting safer, but please – check before you go out. Don’t underestimate the river’s tendency to be sneaky-dangerous, and don’t overestimate your own abilities. On to the hatches: For mayflies, there are green drakes, brown drakes, gray drakes, and pale morning duns. There are several types of caddisflies; as to the fly patterns required, a grayish one will do for a couple of species, and a tan one will do for a couple of others. A lighter tan one, preferably with a yellow body, will serve as a crossover pattern when little yellow stoneflies are on the water. Salmonflies are still around , but as they wind down there are several stoneflies that we can call golden stones, plus yellow Sallies, and little lime Sallies. That’s close enough for practical fishing purposes, although the number of individual species represented must be closer to a dozen. If you’re visiting the upper East Fork or West Fork in the evening when salmonflies return to the water to lay their eggs, carry some salmonflies. Everywhere else in the upper river system, from midday on, the golden stones are on and the trout are after them. Gearing up for all these hatches can be bewildering. We’ll try to untangle it a bit. The hot flies Every year I am hit with the question: “What’s the hot fly?” My interrogator wants me to dispense with the usual fly shop nonsense and get right to the point: He wants the hot fly, and nothing else. On other rivers there is usually one dominant hatch, and one local pattern that out-fishes all the others. That’s what he wants, not a boxful of

everything the proprietor wants to sell. Can’t blame him, but he’s shortchanging himself. The locals know better. They know that multiple hatches, especially this time of year, are the rule and not the exception on the Bitterroot. Begin with a quick geology lesson: As glaciers and the river formed this valley, it left bigger rocks upstream, and progressively smaller rocks downstream. Water tends to slow down as the gradient decreases throughout the river’s course. That means that the best habitat for large stoneflies will be upstream, and smaller mayfly nymphs can live between the cracks of smaller rocks downstream. All of this occurs as a progression, not as a set of absolute dividing lines. Then there’s wood.

Wood and the Bitterroot One of the Bitterroot’s defining characteristics is the amount of woody debris, fallen trees and brush, in the riverbed. Burned-out wood in particular provides habitat and nutrient in the system. Big bugs, particularly big stoneflies, love it. Woody debris in the system is especially critical to salmonfly ecology in the West Fork. The big bugs prefer woody habitat during their nymphal stage. The decaying or burned-out wood provides the micronutrients the insects eat as they mature. You’ll still find some salmonfly activity on the West Fork in the evenings when the big bugs return to the water to lay their eggs, but you’ll probably find more along the East Fork where the habitat is less disturbed. They’ll be mixed with goldens and the trout might prefer one or the other, or eat both. If you’re headed for the forks or the main river above Hamilton, carry some salmonflies, big golden stones and smaller yellow and lime Sally patterns. These smaller stoneflies can be found throughout the system. In the stretches around Hamilton and downstream, you’ll find an abundance of the silt and marl beds around stream mouths and sloughs, and inside patches of sand in slow stretches that harbor the nymph of the Western green drake. These bugs prefer to hatch on cloudy or rainy days but don’t always follow their own rules. Mayflies galore Carry a green drake pattern if you’re fishing the middle river. A green drake hatch can get the trout going like no other, and it’s no fun to be ill-prepared. This year we’re offering an Olive Brindle ‘Chute to fish for the green drakes. It’s a proven pattern but one I’ve rarely been able

Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS

DOWN

1. Father 5. As well as 9. Radar echo 10. Mont __ 11. Corporation (abbr.) 12. National capital 13. Injure 15. Before, poetically 16. Flier 18. Runner 21. Scarf 22. Large african animals, for short 26. Flavoring 28. Bird’s home 29. Covered 30. Myth 31. Part of the “KKK” 32. Store

1. The alphabet 2. Coalition 3. Vigor 4. Sicken 5. Wing 6. Tag 7. Trap 8. Group of eight 10. Take a deep __ 14. Looked searchingly 17. Tactics 18. Taken __ 19. Keyed 20. Japanese poem 23. Cool 24. National capital 25. Sulk 27. Gender © Feature Exchange

to supply to the public. If you’re a Brindle “Chute fan, check out the Olive variation. Brown drakes and gray drakes can be found throughout the system, and that’s where the Brindle ‘Chute shines. There are plenty of good pale morning dun patterns and this year we have a new one. Carry these flies wherever you fish. Chuck’s fly box

My personal choices for these hatches goes like this: For golden stones, I like my #8 Chuck’s Golden Stone pattern, a #8 or #10 Water Walker Golden Stone, and maybe #10 Chuck’s Golden Stimmy. Water and light conditions can change around the next bend, and the “hot” fly can cool down as conditions change. For the drakes, I fish cripples, the Olive Brindle ‘Chute, or the always-reliable Brindle ‘Chute in #10, #12 and #14 as a fly that covers all the bases. For caddisflies, I’m very partial to the Caddis Variant or a Parachute Caddis. I try not to leave home without the #12 Light and #14 Tan Variants this time of year. These flies will fish well throughout the summer. Those flies, and the Brindle ‘Chute in several sizes, are musthaves in my fly box all summer long. We’re stocking up on another fly that has been a hottie in the past. Our Spectral Parachute in purple has been a mainstay for years, offering a multicolored body instead of a monochrome in a purple parachute. Hats off to Andy Carlson for his Purple Haze, and we have our own version of those, too. We’ve added to the Spectral series this year with a Ginger Spectral Parachute for PMD hatches. It’s fly I’ve fished for years. It works – leave it at that. Due to material shortages, I haven’t produced commercially. This year we’ll have it. You might want to give it a try. Author and flytyer Chuck Stranahan can be reached at chuck@chuck-stranahan.com or visit his fly shop at 109 E. Main in Hamilton.

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Page 12 -- Bitterroot Star

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RLP Auction Barn - 3.5 Miles North of Hamilton, MT on Hwy 93 PREVIEW: SAT, JULY 11TH NOON-5PM ATV’s, 2005 Kawasaki Vulcan 750cc Motorcycle, Craftsman Riding Mower, Guns, Ammo, Hunting Stuff, Antiques, Collectibles, Coins, Outdoor, Tools, Furniture, Household, Rocks, Artwork & Much Much More!

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DOWNSIZING: JULY 17-19, 8:30 AM-5 PM. Clothing - household, Hobby items: yarn-jewelry, books. Garden - tools: original paintings. 167 Pistol Lane, Victor. OUTDOOR ANTIQUE FLEA MARKET. Over an acre of antiques and collectables from many vendors. Sunday, July 12th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Virgelle, off U.S. 87 between Fort Benton and Big Sandy. Sponsored by Virgelle Merc Antiques. Lunch available. 1-800-426-2926 or WWW.VirgelleMontana.com BOHEMIAN CORNER ONLINE ONLY LAND AUCTION - 450 +/- ac. in 3 parcels, near Roy, MT. Great hwy. access; near Missouri River. Bidding closes 7/1/2020 www.ShobeAuction.com (406) 366-0472.

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123 S. 5TH Corner of 5th & State in Hamilton Cracked 3-Way (barley, oats, wheat), new crop hay. GRAIN-FED LOCKER BEEF. Call Russ, 3601125 or 961-3528. WE HAVE DOZENS OF FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured hens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, $4/doz. FRESH BATCH of Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb). Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).

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

FOR SALE PIANO - KOHLER & CAMPBELL, $450. Older but in great shape. (406) 369-3212. FOR SALE: 2020 HAULMARK 24FT ENCLOSED TRAILER, Charcoal Gray, 5200lb axles 9,990 GVWR. Includes Spare Tire and locks. Excellent Condition. $8,500. Call (406) 3030014. 2015 KEYSTONE PASSPORT ULTRALIGHT 23 foot like-new trailer. Barely used. All amenities and extended season package. $14,500. 777-3824. 2005 FORD E450 SHUTTLE BUS. Seats up to 14 with commercial wheelchair lift. V8 automatic transmission, diesel. New valves, gaskets and fuel pump. Less than 130,000 miles so good for another 250,000. Near Hardin. Wife drove disabled husband with ease. A bargain at $12,000. Call (406) 665-5321 or email warrd0351@ gmail.com.

RENTALS MATURE RETIREE gardener/landscaper seeks home to rent in the Bitterroot. Handywoman and long time valley resident. Will consider long term lease. Good references. Call me to discuss possibilities. 406-8803649.

HELP WANTED

HOME CARE SERVICES is hiring caregivers and CNAs. Flexible schedule, competitive pay. Apply at 925 N. First Street in Hamilton. Call 375-8637. HARLOW’S SCHOOL BUS SERVICE is looking for a Transportation Manager in Stevensville! Full-Time with Benefits $42k-$48k Yearly Salary. Apply Today at www. harlowsschoolbus.com or Call Joy Ratigan (253)245-6671 for more details. THE MONTANA YOUTH CHALLENGE ACADEMY HAS AN IMMEDIATE OPENING FOR A MATH INSTRUCTOR. This is a full time position, located in Dillon, MT. The position is expected to begin July 7. A Montana Educator license with a math endorsement is preferred. Temporary assignment of an educator with a Montana license in another area may be considered. If interested, please contact Jim Huber at (406) 683-7513 or jim.huber@mycacademy. org. Additional information about the position can be found at statecareers.mt.gov

WANTED WE BUY GUNS. Cash paid. New, used, antique or military. Call Rich, (406) 531-6702.

NOTICES ALL LIVESTOCK AND GRAIN PRODUCERS are eligible for Agriculture Disaster Money. Billions set aside for applicants. Call (406) 350-0571 for the fastest processing completely done for you and receipt of all money available for you. Sapphire Early Learning Center Summer Program, July 13 through August 28, 7:30-5:30, Monday-Friday. Kids 6-12 years of age. Part-time or full-time enrollment available. Fun-themed weeks include science, art, engineering, and cooking. Hosted at Stevensville United Methodist Church ~ 216 College St. Contact 406-7775443 or sapphireelc@gmail.com to enroll and get more info.

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MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF RICHARD FRANCIS CONWAY, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-52 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named Estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Sheila Ann Stockford, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 16th day of June 2020. /s/ Sheila Ann Stockford, Personal Representative BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF MARY L. SMITH, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-55 Dept. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned have been appointed Co-Personal Representatives of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Margaret Smith Buchanan and Lucille Hernandez, the Co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested,

at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 18th day of June, 2020 /s/ Margaret Smith Buchanan Co-Personal Representative 218 Hillcrest Loop Hamilton, MT 59840 /s/ Lucille Hernandez Co-Personal Representative 2508 Forest Lake Santa Ana, CA 92705 BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP

perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. June 19, 2020. /s/Glenna Kay Tipton-Chadwick MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C. By David T. Markette Attorney for Personal Representative BS 7-1, 7-8, 7-15-20. MNAXLP

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Co-Personal Representatives MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF KATHRYN MARIE STREET, also known AS KATHRYN MARIE FRAZIER, Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-53 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Hunter F. Street and Ty L. Street, the Co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 17th day of June 2020. /s/ Hunter F. Street, Co-Personal Representative /s/ Ty L. Street, Co-Personal Representative BS 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP

601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1110 DavidM@mcpcattorneys.com MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of GEORGE LEE KOELLING a/k/a GEORGE L. KOELLING, Deceased. Probate No. DP-20-61 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred . Claims must either be mailed to David T. Markette, MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct. Dated this 25th day of June, 2020. /s/ David T. Markette BS 7-1, 7-8, 7-15-20. MNAXLP

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601 S. First Street P.O. Box 515 Hamilton , MT 59840 (406) 363-1110 DavidM@mcpcattorneys.com Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY In the Matter of the Estate of KAY TIPTON a/k/a VALDI KAY TIPTON a/k/a V. KAY TIPTON, Deceased . Probate No. DP-20-60 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed as Personal Representative of the above -named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Glenna Kay Tipton-Chadwick, the Personal Representative, in care of MARKETTE & CHOUINARD, P.C., 601 S. First Street, P.O. Box 515, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. I declare under penalty of

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MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: MAURICE L. OWEN, Decedent. Cause No.: DP-20-56 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 ( 4) months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Mark Owen, c/o Bransby Law Firm, P.C., 515 Main Street, Stevensville, Montana 59870, return receipt requested, or filed with the Clerk of the above Court. DATED this 25th day of June, 2020. MARK OWEN State of Montana ) :ss County of Ravalli ) This instrument was signed or acknowledged before me on June 25, 2020 by MARK OWEN. /s/ Lisa Radcliffe Wallace Notary Public of the State of Montana

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LISA RADCLIFFE WALLACE NOTARY PUBLIC for the State of Montana Residing at Florence, MT My Commission Expires April 09, 2022. BS 7-1, 7-8, 7-15-20. MNAXLP MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GARY CHARLES KUHFUSS aka GARY C. KUHFUSS, Deceased. Cause No. DP-20-64 Dept. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Patricia Marie Roschen, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at the Law Offices of LAWRENCE D. JOHNSON, Attorney at Law, P.O. Box 500, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. Dated this 30th day of June, 2020 /s/ Patricia Roschen Patricia Marie Roschen, Personal Representative 1040 Watson Street Red Wing, MN 55066 BS 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-20. MNAXLP

tative

Naomi J. Cheeney Cheeney Law, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060 Attorney for Personal Represen-

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF GEORGE LOUDEN DIETZE, JR., Deceased. Case No.: DP-20-65 Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named Estate. All persons having claims against the Decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the first publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Deborah Ann Sullivan, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or filed with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 30th day of June 2020. /s/ Deborah Ann Sullivan, Personal Representative BS 7-8, 7-15, 7-22-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The Ravalli County Board of Health (BOH) will conduct a Public Hearing to receive public comment on the first reading of the proposed revisions to the Ravalli County Subsurface Wastewater Treatment and Disposal Regulations, previously approved by the Ravalli County Board of Health on December 20, 2010, and effective January 1, 2011. The first reading will be held Wednesday, July 8, 2020, at 2:00 p.m. The meeting will be held in the

Commissioners’ Meeting Room at the Administrative Center located at 215 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, at the meeting. The meeting will be live streamed via Granicus. Comments and information submitted to the public meeting will be considered in the decision on the proposed changes. Information describing the proposed revision will be available for inspection on June 15, 2020, at the Ravalli County Environmental Health Department located at 215 S. 4th Street, Suite D, Hamilton, MT 59840, and on the Ravalli County website. For questions relating to these meetings, please contact the Ravalli County Environmental Health Department at 375-6567. If you would like to request an electronic copy of the proposed draft, please send a message with the request to rceh@rc.mt.gov. BS 6-17, 6-24, 7-1, 7-8-20. MNAXLP NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING FY20-21 Preliminary Budget Thursday, July 9, 2020 7:00 p.m. NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town Council of the Town of Stevensville will hold a public hearing on July 9, 2020 at 7:00 pm at the North Valley Library Community Room at 208 Main Street, Stevensville, Montana, 59870 for the purpose of obtaining public comments regarding the Preliminary FY20-21 Budget. The Town Council has completed its preliminary budget for FY2021. A copy of the preliminary budget is available for review on the Town’s website, townofstevensville.com and at the office of the Town Clerk located at Town Hall. FY20-21 Final Budget Approval will be considered at the regular meeting of the Town Council on Thursday, July 9th at 7:00 p.m. All interested persons will be given the opportunity to express their opinions regarding the preliminary budget. Comments may be given orally at the hearing or submitted in writing via email to clerk@townofstevensville. com or US mail to Town Clerk, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 before 5:00 pm July 9, 2020. Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting Town Hall at 406-7775271. Attest: Monica Hoffman, Town Clerk BS 7-1, 7-8-2020. MNAXLP NOTICE OF ANNUAL MILL CREEK IRRIGATION DISTRICT MEETING The annual meeting of the Mill Creek Irrigation District will be held at the Corvallis Grange Hall on Saturday, July 18, 2020, at 3:00 pm. The Grange is located on Dutch Hill Road 1/8 mile West of the intersection of the Woodside Cutoff Road and Highway 93. The state of Mill Lake and Dam, district finances and election of Commissioners will be discussed. Please RSVP and Please wear a mask. For more information, please contact Sandy Schlotterbeck (406-3604788) or Geoff Mahar (406-360-6496. BS 7-8, 7-15-20. MNAXLP

For information on publishing Legal Notices, call Victoria at 777-3928

Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Bitterroot Star -- Page 13

Obituary Margaret Patricia ‘Pat’ Cantrell Margaret Patricia (Pat) Cantrell, 84, of Hamilton, Mon tana, passed away peacefully from congestive heart failure Saturday, March 14, 2020, surrounded by family at her daughter’s home in Forest Grove, Oregon. She was born April 15, 1935, in San Diego, California, the first child of Stephen Branch Haines and Margaret Jane (Cowan) Haines. Pat’s early childhood was in the Philippines, China, Washington, D.C., and Chicago before her Navy parents settled the family in Arkansas. She graduated from DeQueen High School in 1953 and attended the University of Arkansas. In 1957, she was one of the first graduates of the nursing school in Little Rock. On May 13, 1959, Pat commissioned into the United States Navy as LTJG (Lieutenant Junior Grade) and was stationed at the Navy Hospital in San Diego.

Death Notices Mi Sun ‘Annie’ Gu

There she met and married John L. Cantrell on February 9, 1962. They moved to Bozeman in 1963 where she continued to work as a nurse, while John went to school. In the following years they moved to California, Maine and Oklahoma, before settling down in Hamilton in 1976. She completed her nursing career there at Valley View. Pat was an active member in the First Presbyterian Church, both as an Elder and on the Session Board. She was involved with her daughters’ Girl Scout troops, belonged to various book clubs and the quilting guild. She volunteered for Marcus Daly Memorial Hospice and in her later years was a member of Soroptimist International. Pat enjoyed her several travels to the United Kingdom and back to China as an adult. She is preceded in death by

may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Hamilton - Mi Sun “Annie” Gu, 51, passed away tragically in the afternoon, Sunday, June 21, 2020 due to an motor vehicle accident at MM 38, just south of Lost Horse Road in Hamilton. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com

Richard S. ‘Dick’ Reinbold

Corvallis - Richard S. “Dick” Reinbold, 85, passed away peacefully in the night, Thursday, July 2, 2020, at his home surrounded by family. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Diane E. Gray

Missoula - Diane E. Gray, 56, passed away in the evening, Monday, June 22, 2020, at the Village Health Care Center in Missoula. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.

Gloria A. Free

Hamilton - Gloria A. Free, 72, passed away this morning, Monday, July 6, 2020 at the Community Medical Center in Missoula. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at wwwbrothersmortuary.com.

Lorraine B. Glasser

Hamilton - Lorraine B. Glasser, 94, passed away in the morning, Saturday, June 27, 2020, at her sister’s residence in Hamilton. Memories and condolences

Services scheduled

her husband John Cantrell, son John L. Cantrell II (Johnny) and her daughter Margaret Jane Evans (Pegi.) Pat is survived by her two daughters, Mary Cantrell Lyons (Forest Grove, Oregon) and Stephanie Cantrell (Boise, Idaho) as well as her three granddaughters (Heather Evans, Gabrielle Barton and Emily Barton), two grandsons (Paydn Evans and Collin Lyons), two sisters and two brothers. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests that donations be sent to Care Partners Hospice, 1600 NE Compton Drive, Suite 210, Hillsboro, OR 97006, or drop off used books or donations at Chapter One Bookstore for Pat’s Books for Kids in Hamilton. A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, July 9th at 11 a.m. at the Anglers Lodge and Cabins in Hamilton with Rev. Janet Malone officiating.

Ray E. Williams

Stevensville - A graveside service with military honors will be held for Ray E. Williams on Friday, July 17, 2020 at 11 a.m. at the Riverside Cemetery in Stevensville. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.

Thomas E. Evans

Hamilton - Thomas E. Evans passed peacefully June 13, 2020. A celebration of life service will be held on Thursday, July 16 at 1 p.m. at the Daly-Leach Chapel in Hamilton. Military honors will be presented by the U.S. Army and Corvallis American Legion.

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service for Art Hammersley has been postponed due to the increase in COVID-19 cases. The service will be rescheduled at a later date and announced. Art passed away May 3, 2020 at his home in Stevensville. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.

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Wednesday, July 8, 2020

Daly Hospital Foundation fundraiser goes on-line Page 14--Bitterroot Star

Welcome the generous new orthodontist in Hamilton, Dr. Keldon Carroll (owner of Carroll Ortho, formerly Silcher Orthodontics). Dr. Carroll is a new neighbor to the hospital and enjoys snacking on cold cereal, especially Lucky Charms! He has decided to share his enjoyment by donating a pallet of Lucky Charms to the Daly Hospital Foundation for their online auction to benefit Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. Participate in the auction by signing up today at www.32auctions.com/DHF

By Michael Howell The Daly Hospital Foundation’s annual Gala fundraiser has morphed into an on-line event this year. According to the Foundation’s Director Staci Duce, work on the annual fundraising event is actually a year-long process as the effort to collect auction items begins quite early, almost from when the last auction was over. “We didn’t want to just sit on those items and plan for next year so we decided to put the auction up on the internet,” said Duce. In fact, pushing the money it raises through to its final goal as quickly and efficiently as possible has always been and remains a central tenet of the Foundation. Duce said that the hospital was hit hard at the beginning of this pandemic and forced to suspend many of its common operations as it adjusted to the new situation. While the foundation has always been geared toward dispersing its funds as quickly as possible, the need for fast cash flow has been aggravated severely by the new demands placed upon the hospital and its staff. The foundation has set a lofty goal of raising $50,000 through its planned auction this year and hospital staff have stepped up to help make the auction a success by offering auction

items themselves. “We encouraged them to donate items that would show us something about who they are and what they enjoy doing on the regular time off,” said Duce. As a result, they have gotten some pretty revealing gift items. You can tell, for instance, that the Family Practice physicians are horse lovers. An anesthesiologist at the hospital who spends his spare time keeping bees is donating some jars of honey. One of the surgeons is donating a lawn mowing job. “Dr. Woods likes to decompress after surgery by going out and mowing his lawn,” said Duce. “He is known in the neighborhood for not stopping at his property boundary. His neighbors appreciate it in fact. So, he has decided to donate a lawn mowing job to the highest bidder.” One donation that has drawn a lot of attention is the pallet of Lucky Charms cereal donated by Dr. Keldon Carroll, a new orthodontist who took over Dr. Silcher’s business in Hamilton. Carroll said that one thing people should know about him is how much he likes to eat cold cereal. The cereal is also good for other uses such as showering people with the confetti-like but edible foodstuff. Hospital staff also contribute cash to the foundation through

a payroll deduction option. Last year the foundation raised over $500,000. Donations can be earmarked to go to separate funds, according to Duce. They can be earmarked for laboratory testing costs, to have negative air pressure systems installed in surgery rooms, assistance with the costs of the new Viral Clinic, or spent on the hospital’s Telehealth program. “It really makes a difference at the hospital when it is facing so many new needs and expenses never known before this pandemic,” said Duce. Although the hospital’s regular services were crippled for a couple of months as they adjusted to the new situation, they are now back in operation and working full steam handling both COVID-19 cases and continuing to serve their regular patients. “We are recovering,” said Duce, “and so long as people continue to use the local services and the team continues to work harder and smarter, and donors continue to support the Foundation, in the end we are going to be stronger for it.” The on-line auction is set to begin when the annual Gala would have started, on July 11 at 5 p.m. Bidding on items will continue to July 16 at 10 p.m. and winners will be notified the next day. To join the auction, go to 32auctions.

CCCCCC SSSSS “WW BBBBB

Nurse continued

year olds (art only a grandparent could love) to fund the purchase. She makes homemade, colorful cards and places them in random places around town (bookstores, restaurants, on the sidewalk) telling strangers they are “awesome,” “loved,” “have a great smile.” She paints caricature outlet covers and has self-published photography books that she sells online, donating the funds to Missoula Youth Homes and Jadyn Fred Foundation. Recently she contacted Third Wave, a non-profit organization, to get thousands of N95 masks donated to the CMC facility to protect care givers. When an elderly neighbor was diagnosed with cancer and in need of care assistance, she stepped in to take her to medical appointments, give medication injections, changed dressings and was by her side until her passing. “And as many of you have personally experienced, Cathy goes out of her way to ensure others get a proper celebration for their achievements.” Although it is uncommon for the Director of Inpatient and Pediatrics at the hospital to offer a letter of nomination, an exception was made in this case. “As the Director of the NICU, Pediatrics, and PICU Inpatient units, I have had the honor of leading a phenomenal group of nurses that truly excel in providing compassionate patient care,” states Director Pamela Pearson. “For this very reason, I have been hesitant in the past to nominate any single nurse for a recognition award. com/dhf. You may join the bidding at any time during the five-day auction event. To donate to the foundation outside the auction, simply go to www.mdmh.org/gives. Donations may be earmarked to any special fund such as the new Caregiver Relief fund, or the Hospital fund, the Hospice fund, or the Colors of Cancer fund.

After all, it feels like choosing between your own children. However, as I took in the meaning behind the award and read about the spirit of Scott Mercy, the following words jumped out at me and lead to my nomination today. ‘His warmth, humor and down-toearth style helped create a culture that still resonates through our halls.’ This one line describing Scott Mercy emulates the most beloved Pediatric Intensive care nurse to grace our halls at CMC, Cathy Scholtens RNC.” What Scholtens said was, “You don’t get this kind of award in a vacuum. To me it’s kind of my whole unit’s award. We have amazing doctors, amazing nurses and amazing staff. But I’m really proud to have my name on it.” Then came the double whammy. She was still reeling from the notification about the Mercy Award as she was walking through the hospital corridors and rounded a corner to find a full room of staff and other friends and family. “I thought it was a surprise party for having received the Mercy Award,” said Scholtens. Then she saw the big display on the screen behind the crowd of people, saw the giant daisy and realized what it was: the Daisy Award! Scholtens is usually the one who makes videos for the Daisy Awards. This time a cohort had slipped in and done it before Scholtens even knew what was going on. The Daisy Award was created by the family of Patrick Barnes who died of an autoimmune disease at the age of 33. After witnessing eight weeks of hospitalization prior to his death, the whole family was impressed by the quality of the care that he and they had received. In response they formed the non-profit Daisy Foundation: Diseases Attacking the Immune SYstem. “We created The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses and piloted the program at the Seattle Cancer Care Alliance, whose nurses cared for Patrick during the last weeks of his life,”

said Mark Barnes, Patrick’s father. “Our goal was to ensure that nurses know how deserving they are of our society’s profound respect for the education, training, brainpower, and skill they put into their work, and especially for the caring with which they deliver their care.” Scholtens immediately confided to a friend of hers that she was feeling a little bit undeserving. But then she read in one of the letters of support that accompany the nomination where one of her coworkers wrote: “If Cathy could give CPR with one hand while keeping her arm around the parent with the other, she would do it.” “I thought to myself, that is very true,” said Scholtens. “So, it was kind of an opening in my heart to say yes, OK, this is true. It’s very nice. That was the highlight of all this for me, to understand that my coworkers and parents and such appreciate what I do…and how goofy I am.” She said another great thing was all the parents and kids that she knew, some from a long time ago, who heard about the award and contacted her. She said that chance to re-connect has been really nice and to be able to talk to people she hasn’t heard from in a long time has been very gratifying. “It’s neat. I’m super proud,” she said. “I’m also blessed with a family that lets me do all this extra stuff while they do all the stuff that runs this house. I’m down on my computer making silly magnets for people and they are up there doing the dishes. Like I said, you don’t do anything in a vacuum.” She said it was “a neat thing to have happen so close to retirement.” She’s set to retire in two and half years. “It’s humbling,” she said, “and then to have them both back to back is just crazy awesome. It’s all just so overwhelming. It’s something you have to just sit with for a little bit and let it settle. It’s nice to know that your life’s work is appreciated and that you are doing the right thing and you are doing it right.”

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