Bitterroot Star - August 14, 2024

LIFELINE: couple honored for protecting land

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wanted to do something ethical with his life, and was looking for work that was more “worthwhile” than hanging wallpaper for a living. Based on this shared interest, the two formed a bond that not only produced tons of organic vegetables over the years but also three now-grown children who, by chance, were all back working on the farm this summer.

Lifeline Produce operated on leased land in the beginning but found a place of its own in 1992 when it purchased 20 acres near Victor. Another 21 acres was acquired from neighbors over the years and about 11 years ago another 38 acres south of Stevensville was purchased, bringing the total to about 79 acres.

As Missoula Conservation Roundtable members Neva Hassanein and Vicki Watson put it in their notice of the award, “Conservation can be understood as learning to work with the land, using it respectfully, and passing it on in good shape to the next generation. By embracing ecological diversity and reciprocity, Lifeline exemplifes conservation at its fnest. They brew biodiesel for their trucks and tractors with used cooking oil from local restaurants. They capture solar power for their coolers, pumps, and home. They divide their farm into vegetable production land, hay ground, and perennial pasture, rotating these and using composted livestock manure to build soil health and close the nutrient cycle. They work with the land to provide a diversity of habitats, and the resulting biodiversity provides some natural pest control and disease suppression AND the music of birds and bees! Each piece of this land organism plays its biological and economical role, working to support the life of the whole. In this organism, Steve and Luci are the mind and the will, guiding the living system.”

Elliot said that creating a self-suffcient “closed loop” system like they have today was a goal from the very beginning. But it was a long slow

process. According to him, the goal wasn’t essentially reached until about three years ago when they had fnally grown their herd of cows and focks of sheep to full capacity. It’s the cows and sheep that produce the manure used to make the compost to grow the vegetables and the hay used to feed the animals that makes it all possible.

This “closed loop” is a lot more involved and complex than you might imagine. It involves using solar power to produce the electricity they need for things such as water pumps and refrigerators. It means trading vegetables for used restaurant oil to produce the biodiesel to run their tractors. They currently produce about 24 kilowatts of solar power and produce about 2,000 gallons annually of biodiesel fuel.

Besides the complexity involved in growing the hay, raising the animals, and producing the compost, just growing the vegetables alone is fraught with its own complexities. It’s not enough to just grow cabbage, lettuce, chard, kale, parsley, cilantro, basil, chives, mint and other herbs. These light, leafy crops bring in revenue only in the summer.

“We only grow it if we are pretty sure we can sell it,” said Brieger. But when winter puts an end to this leafy produce, it leaves nothing more to sell. So some of the land has to be swapped out for produce that can keep and provide for fall and winter work, like potatoes, carrots, beets, and onions. Raising bedding plants for sale is a spring operation.

“Having something for sale through the whole calendar year is an essential part of our business model,” said Brieger.

When growing the leafy plants in summer, timing is also a factor. Leafy produce quickly matures but doesn’t last and must be sold when it is ready. Lettuce, for instance, is planted 12 times over the course of the season. Cilantro is planted 15 times, basil six to eight times.

On top of all this there are other

things to be considered, such as pests and disease. This involves everything from rotating crops to keep the soil healthy and disease resistant to placing sonar devices to drive of pests. They also intentionally plant some wildfowers just to attract pollinators.

Brieger said, all things considered, having as much diversity in crops and habitat is the best plan and they have worked hard at it over the years. The result is a farm with ponds, marsh, woodlands, open grass land, crops, both irrigated and unirrigated land. All of it hosting lots of birds and benefcial insects with no huge pest problems or any serious disease problems.

Besides their work on the farm, Elliott and Brieger have also been supporters and leaders of many organizations in Montana’s vibrant local food and sustainable agriculture movement. They helped create some of Montana’s frst organic standards by helping form the Montana Sustainable Growers Union and creating the farmer-verifed “Homegrown” label. Steve and Luci were also early and ongoing supporters of Garden City Harvest and the PEAS farm. Lifeline is a member of Western Montana Growers Cooperative, a nationally recognized, successful business run by and for its member-farmers.

Lifeline Produce has been a showcase and inspiration for others, frequently hosting feld days and tours for the interested public, drawing farmers and eaters from across the state.

Honoring the past and the future, they created the Lifeline Food Sovereignty Scholarship at UM to support Indigenous students interested

in food sovereignty.

To top it of, working with the Bitterroot Land Trust, the couple has placed their land under a conservation easement to ensure that it will not be developed in the future and removed from agricultural production.

“This is our life’s work,” Brieger told the Bitterroot Star. “Over the years we have been able to buy these 79 acres and rebuild healthy soils. We raised our three children here, and our family agreed we wanted this ground to be available for organic agriculture for generations to come. We knew that a conservation easement would probably be a useful tool to make that happen.”

They have done it all without seeking or expecting any accolades. “We just kept our heads down and kept moving,” said Elliot.

“But it does feel wonderful actually to be recognized like this,” said Brieger. “It’s not the Nobel Prize, but for me it might as well be. It’s great.”

Zango ● Male

We are still getting to know Zango as he came in as a stray. What we do know is that he is a young, sweet lab-mix who loves the love. He's a good walker and would make an excellent adventure companion. Zango deserves his own forever home where people love and cherish him.

* Retriever, Labrador/ Terrier, American Pit Bull

A portion of the Lifeline Produce farm near Victor. Photo by Michael Howell.

by Syble Solomon

Bitterroot Women’s Club has been making a

impact for the

good since the frst club in the Valley was established in 1903. By the mid 1900’s, nearly every town in the Valley had a women’s club chartered by the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, a national organization with many notable past accomplishments. They sold enough war bonds during World War II to purchase 431 planes, advocated for seat belts, and supported the Women’s Sufrage Movement. More recent projects include advocating

for the Family Leave Act, funding libraries for Native Americans, and raising awareness of trafcking and domestic violence.

Members of the Ravalli County clubs were wives,

shopkeepers, and “fne ladies”. Each of the twelve clubs in the Valley had its own focus, but initially the mission was generally related to beautifying their communities or providing a forum to discuss literature, art and current events. However, these dynamic, visionary and strong women also wanted to make a diference. They supported the national projects and collaborated on larger local projects with amazing results.

They successfully demanded that a county nurse be hired by demonstrating at the Ravalli County Courthouse steps. They spearheaded eforts to improve sanitation and healthcare in the Valley and were instrumental in establishing the frst community health clinic to provide essential services to underserved populations.

They played a crucial role in establishing the Carnegie Library in Hamilton in 1910 and sponsored book drives and literacy programs throughout the valley. In addition, they began awarding college scholarships to deserving local students.

In 1979, one unique fundraiser for scholarships by the Corvallis club was selling a self-made map (for $1.50) that could be used by mail carriers and frefghters. Members literally drove on every road in the town to provide accurate names and addresses of every business and home.

In 2009, the GFWC Corvallis Women’s Club was the only remaining club and became the GFWC Bitterroot Women’s Club, representing all the towns in the Valley. As past president Sarah Fry stated, “We want to work with everyone and also maintain the history of the Corvallis Club. Any woman with a passion can fnd a place in our club. She may join an established project or we will work with her to best use her passion to help others, raise money, or enrich our club in other ways. Every woman is welcome. Many hands make light work, and it’s’ a place where everyone can make friends.”

Golay is turning 80!

the interest in education and literacy now extends to babies. By collaborating with the Bitterroot Public Library and Bitterroot Health, they provide a packet to parents of all newborns with a baby book, important parenting information and registration information for the Dolly Parton Imagination Library so babies can begin receiving free books every month starting at birth.

For more than 100 years, the club has started the Corvallis school year by welcoming the teachers back. Initially, they hosted a tea for the twelve teachers and today they provide homemade desserts for over 200 teachers.

During both World Wars, members played critical roles in supporting the war efort, from organizing Red Cross activities to hosting bond drives. Now they support vets and service members by honoring them at the Corvallis Memorial Day Parade and use that as a fund-raising opportunity by selling plants and pies.

Today’s club continues adds new projects initiated by members’ own interests and requests from the community. One example was donating used mascara wands to an organization rescuing birds after an oil spill. Another was to deliver handmade Valentines from Sula to Florence to all essential workers in the community and the Bitterroot Health system to thank them for their contribution.

Samples of other activities include volunteering at the ministerial community dinners and donating food to Haven House, blankets for the animals at the Humane Association, materials for children’s programs at the Darby library, decorated pumpkins to residents in assisted living and diapers to food banks. Their donated baked goods and crafts and volunteer time help support many community events. This past year, they raised money for Loads of Laundry, to give homeless and low-income neighbors the opportunity to have clean laundry and receive shower vouchers without having to sacrifce other necessities.

The Bitterroot Valley is fortunate to have their endless energy and support. Interested in collaborating on a project, donating, becoming a member and having a great time while making a diference in the community? Parties can visit their website at gfwcbitterrootwomansclub.com or call Sarah Fry at 406-5449269 for more information. Meetings are the second Saturday of the month at the Presbyterian Church in Hamilton. Patsy

Many club traditions have stood the test of time and have been adapted as needed. They still take great pride in beautifying Corvallis with eye-catching seasonal planters. They also support environmental projects like river clean-up eforts, tree planting campaigns and educational programs on sustainability and conservation. Their initial eforts to impact health have endured with projects related to mammogram awareness and participation in health fairs, vaccination drives and wellness programs. The scholarship initiative now awards $1,000 each to seven graduates of the county high schools and

Martin Kukich, Broker MT/lD GRI, ABR, CNHS, PSA, SFR 406-241-9982 P.O. Box 475 Victor, MT 59875 martykukich@hotmail.com

643 Adirondac Ave, Hamilton, MT

106 E Waldo Street, Darby

BeautifulCustomFarmhouse Development Potential

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Unique custom-built country home. 3 bed / 3 bath on 16+ acres with 360 degree views. Apple orchard, yearround creek and Daly Ditches irrigation. Open concept living; can be divided into 3 separate living quarters with 3 kitchens and 3 granite walk-in showers. Many possibilities for the creative entrepreneur. MLS #22110617 $1,799,900 807 W. Main Street, Hamilton CONVENIENT! RESIDENTIAL and/or COMMERCIAL ZONING. Extra nice, manufactured home with large 3-car garage (warehouse) on W. Main St.

Looking for that cute, in town, updated home, here it is. Convenient to all outdoor recreational activities including prime Montana hunting, fshing, & boating. Major rodeos also. Smalltown charm with many small shops to entertain you. This 1994 3 bd/1 bth ranch style home has had numerous upgrades, including a new, covered patio area in the back, and huge, fenced-in backyard. Come and check out this charming home, you won’t be disappointed. MLS #22211206 $399,900

Unique custom-built farmhouse. 3 bed / 3 bath on 16+ acres with 360-degree views. Apple orchard, Daly Ditches irrigation. Open concept living; can be divided into 3 separate living quarters with 3 kitchens & 3 granite walk-in showers. Many possibilities for the creative entrepreneur. MLS#22110617 $1,699,900

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106 E Waldo Street, Darby 331 Eagle Feather Lane, Victor Classic, traditional, log home on almost 10 acres, fenced/ cross fenced, upper & lower hay feld, good water/irrigation, spring fed pond. Detached 3-car garage/shop w/mechanic’s pit. Barn/tack room & 3-sided loafng shed. AWESOME VIEWS. Rare property on the westside w/MILD covenants. Private, yet close to Victor. Bring your horses and ride on in. MLS #22203944 $1,150,000

Stacie Rennaker (left) receives donated material from Joyce Hooper for a project to make blankets for the Bitterroot Humane Assoc. Photo courtesy GFWC Bitterroot Women’s Club.

Sandra Taylor decorates barrels on Main Street, Corvallis for the fall. Photo courtesy Bitterroot Women’s Club.

Responders’ National Night Out a success

by Sarah Glass

Local families and residents came together at the Ravalli County Fairgrounds in Hamilton on the evening of August 6 to view amazingly trained animals and curious contraptions and to participate in carnivalesque games of a diferent kind. While the fair isn’t yet due to come to town, for the second year running, Bitterroot Valley frst responders joined together to participate in a National Night Out (NNO) event aimed at fostering positive relationships between themselves and members of the community.

Trucks and cruisers marked with Forest Service, Montana Highway Patrol, Ravalli County Sherif’s Ofce (RCSO), and Hamilton Police Department logos sat glistening in a row. Nearby, a fre truck belonging to the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department parked with its ladder extended toward the sky. In its shadow, a young girl – her face partially painted in leopard print – squinted in determined focus as she was guided in the art of using a water hose to spray over orange cones. Also on display were a Life Flight helicopter, a Bitterroot Health ambulance, and an RCSO armored vehicle. Representatives of each organization stood nearby, ofering demonstrations and answering any questions. Other community conversation starters included RSCO drone equipment, a K9 deputy, and members of its newly established mounted posse riding atop their trusty horses.

“I want to be a freman,” said a child to one of the RCSO deputies, a plastic freman’s hat on his head. Other children wore sherif’s stars pinned to their shirts while others contentedly ate hot dogs or waited in line to get their faces painted. Some had to hang on to their freman’s hats, however, when Life Flight personnel mounted their helicopter and departed the fairgrounds by lifting into the sky.

According to National Night Out literature, the frst NNO event occurred in August 1984 and involved “2.5 million neighbors across 400 communities in 23 states.” The event has grown enormously

since then, sweeping across the nation. When asked how long NNO events have been running in the Bitterroot Valley, Ravalli County Sherif Steve Holton said this is the frst year RCSO has sponsored it. “We participated last year when the Stevensville Police Department sponsored it. As far as I know, this is only the second year,” he said.

The Stevensville Police Department did not sponsor an NNO event this year, but even if they had, said Hamilton Police Chief Steve Snavely, “we decided at the Hamilton Police Department that we would do one… for our community down here. It just so happened that the Sherif’s Ofce had decided to do one as well, so we partnered to do that.”

While each community expresses NNO participation diferently, the message behind the event remains the same: “We just want to provide a venue for people to come out, have a good time, interact with law enforcement and other frst responders in a fun environment,” said Sherif Holton.

“Get to know us,” added Chief Snavely.

Sherif Holton mentioned that

RESTRICTIONS: Fire danger level down

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“Dropping fire restrictions will likely bring more visitors to the Forest,” said Russell Buzzell, BNF Fire Prevention Officer. “But with most of the fire season still ahead of us, I would remind everyone to be extra vigilant about putting their campfires completely out before they leave the area. Remember to use the ‘Drown, Stir, Feel,’ campfire safety method.”

It is imperative that residents and visitors alike exercise caution when recreating outdoors. Please follow these fire safety tips.

· Keep campfires small and completely extinguish them before leaving camp. Always add water, stir it, and make sure all embers are out. It is illegal to have unattended campfires.

Smokers should light up only in areas cleared of all flammable debris. Cigarette butts should never be thrown from vehicle windows.

Fireworks are illegal on public lands: every forest, every campsite, every day. Never light fireworks in the woods. Ensure your vehicle is properly maintained, with nothing dragging on the ground. A loose safety chain or dangling muffler can send a shower of sparks into dry vegetation. Keep vehicles off dry grass. The

catalytic converter may contact the vegetation and start a fire.

Recreational shooting? Take precautions! Never shoot into dry vegetation and always make sure you’re shooting in a safe location, away from roads, trails, campsites, and occupied areas. Be aware that shooting exploding targets is prohibited on National Forest System lands. For more information visit https://www. fs.usda.gov/visit/know-before-yougo/shooting.

Know before you go. Always check with your local Ranger Station prior to your trip to get the most upto-date information on fire danger and fire restrictions for the area. Visit www.mtfireinfo.org to learn more about restrictions that are in place throughout Montana.

Unmanned aerial systems (UAS), or drones, should never be flown near or around wildfires. To learn more about Forest Service policy regarding UAS visit https://www. fs.usda.gov/managing-land/fire/aviation/uas/responsible-use.

Firefighters have responded to 6 human caused and 55 lightning wildfires this summer on the Bitterroot National Forest. Due to the quick response, most fires were kept under 1 acre in size.

fs.usda.gov/bitterroot and www. facebook.com/discoverbitterrootnf.

Kristin Kruse, former Stevensville Police Clerk who now works part-time for the Sherif’s Ofce, was instrumental in the coordination and success of this year’s NNO event.

Sheriff Deputy Briese introduces K9 Deputy Bob to Bre Stuart and her sons, Dawson and Sawyer. Photo by Sarah Glass.

A member of the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department helps a determined Weslie Lewis become a sure shot with a fre hose. Photo by Sarah Glass.

Ravalli County Sheriff Steve Holton (left) and Hamilton Police Chief Steve Snavely made themselves available to the public at the RCSO’s and Hamilton Police Department’s frst co-sponsored NNO event. Photo by Sarah Glass.

Annual Celtic Games

The Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering returns to the Bitterroot Valley for its 15th year on Saturday and Sunday, August 17 and 18. The annual event is presented by the Bitterroot Celtic Society and will be held on the beautiful grounds of the Daly Mansion just outside of Hamilton.

This event has grown into being one of the largest and most anticipated events of the summer in the Bitterroot Valley. The society’s board president, Laura Reichart, says, “This year’s Bitterroot Games & Gathering will be bigger than ever, with more pipe and drum bands, more bands on our two stages, more dancers, more vendors, and more athletes. We are looking forward to welcoming the community to a weekend of Celtic culture, music and dance, sports, athletics, sheepherding dogs, and family fun.”

The Bitterroot Games is the largest sanctioned Highland Athletic Competition in the state of Montana, attracting kilted athletes from far and wide to participate in competitions such as the caber toss, hammer toss, weight over bar and weight for distance, sheaf toss, and stone put. Adult competitions are all on Saturday (pre-registration is required; rules and registration at bcgg.org), and juniors and kids are on Sunday (sign up onsite). Competitions are scattered throughout the grounds so spectators can see it all and cheer on the athletes in their favorite events.

Live music will be presented nonstop on two stages throughout both days.

“We are always very proud of the music we bring to the Games each year,” said Reichart. “New to our Games this year is the renowned band The Wicked Tinkers. This group is much in demand at Celtic games and festivals across the country, and we’re looking forward to having them here. We’re also bringing back some favorites from past years, including the Harp Twins with the Volfgang Twins, Swagger, Teton Skye, and the Katie Jane Band.”

The Gazebo Stage will feature performances by Dennis Doyle, Hunter Koss, the Katie Jane Band, Teton Skye, the Cootehill Session Junkies, Jade Merriman, and the Katie Jane Band. All entertainment is included in the price of admission to the Games.

Throughout the weekend, the

dance tent will host an array of Scottish Highland and Irish dance performances, demonstrations, and workshops, including introductory classes that anyone is welcome to participate in. Dancers from the Missoula Highland Dancers, the Missoula Irish Dancers, the Carroll-Henderson School of Irish Dance, and the An Daire Academy of Irish Dance will all be participating. Bagpipes and drums defne the soundtrack for Scottish Highland Games and there will be an abundance of them at this year’s Bitterroot Games, with more pipers and drummers than ever. There will be competitions for pipe and drum bands, and for individual pipers and drummers. Outside of the competitions, they are sure to be found at every corner of the grounds all weekend.

Merchandise vendors will be offering a wide array of Celtic-oriented items such as jewelry, gifts, clothing, and decor. The Bitterroot Celtic Society will also have a souvenirs and gifts tent featuring commemorative items such as BCGG clothing, glassware, and other souvenirs.

Food and drink will be available from a large variety of food vendors, along with beer and mead from local breweries. Those interested in sampling several types of mead, tasting some premium Scotches, or comparing Scotch vs. Irish whiskeys can partake in one of the several guided tasting sessions scheduled throughout the weekend. Tickets for the tasting sessions can be purchased online at bcgg.org, or at the Celtic Society’s merchandise tent at the event, while they last.

The Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering hosts a large “clan gathering” of many Scottish and Irish clans. A record number of clans will be pitching tents in the clan village this year, sharing their family histories, and welcoming visitors and perhaps some long-lost relatives.

A free cèilidh is open to the public from 7 to 10 p.m. on Saturday. A cèilidh (or céilí in Irish – pronounced “kay-lee” in either case) is a party with music, dancing, singing, and storytelling. Everyone is welcome to attend the cèilidh, have some fun, and learn some cèilidh dancing. Admission to the grounds and the cèilidh is free to

everyone starting at 7 p.m. on Saturday.

A non-denominational “Kirkin’ o’ the Tartan” church service opens the Sunday activities at 9 a.m. All are welcome to attend this traditional Scottish-American service.

All activities pause each day at 1 p.m. for the Grand Parade and Opening Ceremony. All the clans, pipers and drummers, and special guests participate in the parade, during which a moving memorial to those who have passed away in the past year is presented. All the pipers join in playing the reverential tune “Flowers of the Forest” while the names of loved ones lost in the past year are read. Names to be read at the Flowers of the Forest ceremony can be submitted at bcgg. org, or at the information tent at the Games.

The historic Daly Mansion will also be open for self-guided tours on both days, and will be serving “pasties on the porch.”

The Bitterroot Celtic Society events are run by volunteers, and volunteers are always needed to keep the Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering running smoothly.

“There are jobs to ft everybody,” says Reichert, “from setup on Friday to tear down on Sunday and everything in between, not to mention planning for this event and others throughout the year. We’d love to have you join our group of dedicated members. Besides free admission to the event, you’ll get the satisfaction of working with a great group of people and knowing you helped make it happen.”

On Saturday, the Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering is open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., followed by the free cèilidh from 7 to 10 p.m. Sunday hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

General admission for ages 12 and up is $15 ($13 with military ID) on Saturday, and $10 ($8 with military ID) on Sunday. A weekend pass for both days is $20. Kids 11 and under are free.

Parking on the Daly Mansion grounds is very limited, and guests are asked to park for free at Hamilton High School or in the Ravalli County Fairgrounds north parking lot. Free shuttles will run continuously from 8:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturday and 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. on Sunday. Families with strollers and others needing assistance can be dropped of on-site near the entrance gate before the driver parks at the ofsite parking. Handicapped parking is available on site in the Daly Mansion parking lot. Note that dogs are not permitted on the Daly Mansion grounds. See bcgg.org for more information about the Bitterroot Celtic Games & Gathering.

Pot of Gold

Information about the Bitterroot Celtic Society and volunteer opportunities can be found on the society’s website, bcgg.org.

Terri Larson of Stevensville was the lucky winner of this year’s Pot of Gold raffe during the Stevensville Creamery Picnic. Larson won $2024. The raffe raises money for Project 59870, a non-proft that supports worthy projects that improve the quality of life in the Stevensville area. This year, Stevensville FFA also got a portion of the proceeds for helping to sell the tickets.

Photo by Victoria Howell.

Sertell was not truthful

I am curious about why the chair of Montanans for Life, Robin Sertell, found it necessary to lie about the funding sources for the campaign to secure reproductive rights options for Montanans. She claims that Planned Parenthood is spending $40 million to fund abortion access ballot measures in eight states. She further claims that Planned Parenthood gets ‘government subsidy by way of our tax dollars ... to put toward political activism? Really?’

Well no, not really. That is a big lie that she is surely aware of. Planned Parenthood does get federal money to help pay for health care for women. 97% of the work that Planned Parenthood does is to provide health care screenings for all women, regardless of ability to pay. (When I was young and poor, I relied on them to provide health care. It was the only health care I could aford.) Funding for political reasons comes from an entirely diferent pool of money (Planned Parenthood Action Fund), and Sertell surely knows this. If not, then she has not done the minimum necessary to write the letter she wrote.

Less than 3% of Planned Parenthood ‘s work involves abortion. But when a woman needs this type of health care, they are often the only provider available.

CI-128 is a ballot measure that will likely be on the November ballot. Montanans Securing Reproductive Rights (MSSR) gathered more than enough signatures to put it there. This shows that Montanans want this issue to be there. Whenever this issue gets on any ballot, it has won at the election because the vast majority (more than 60% nationwide) of people support the right to make their own healthcare choices. This includes Montanans. Sertell seems to imply that Montanans don’t want this on the ballot, but the number of signatures gathered suggests this too is a lie.

The letter author goes on to make numerous other assertions about CI-128 which I sincerely doubt because of her willingness to lie so blatantly about the money. She claims out-of-staters are supporting the abortion issue nationwide. Well, duh....it is a national issue. Some states have made health care choices for women unavailable. For instance, some Idaho hospitals have had to close their maternity services because of the loss of obstetrics doctors afraid of getting put in prison for providing necessary health care for some women. Montana hospitals need to take up some of those patients. Montana doctors want to be able to provide a full range of options for all of their patients.

Montanans want a full range of choices available to us when we see our doctors. We don’t want anyone forcing us to make choices based on the religious convictions of others. Vote FOR CI-128 this November.

Toddy Perryman Hamilton

Common sense test

Richard Parker’s appeal to common sense inspires me to propose a test of his commonsense: 1. Did Jared Kushner’s role in the Trump Administration have any infuence on Saudi Arabia’s investment of $2 billion in his private equity frm, Afnity Partners? 2. Did the former President meet with the President of Egypt in September or 2016 and express his high regard for peace-loving Muslims, call him a “fantastic guy,” and say he would invite him to the White House if he won? 2. Does Richard Parker have any evidence former President Trump or his campaign was not the

recipient of a $998,000,000 payment from the government of Egypt? Yes or No answers will be adequate for the purposes of grading the test.

Jim Parker Hamilton

The line before us

When I have a choice to make I believe there is a line before me that separates my thoughts in deciding should I or not, or it could be on good or evil, or good or bad. It’s a God-given gift that is part of our everyday lives. We all have our successes and failures in how we lead our lives and how we use the line as our guide. Example, buying something I really don’t need instead of buying food to feed my family. Or when it comes to voting, who should get my vote, and why or why not. Life ahead is full of responsibilities for everyone in many ways.

Infation – The day that the price of fuel went up, so did everything we need to survive. Lots of our population have no idea where our food comes from. They would say the grocery store, some will say that grows on trees, like spaghetti for instance. How much of the food we eat comes from the farm? It takes a lot of fuel to raise and harvest the crops to produce the food we need to survive on. The farmer uses lots of fuel in every aspect of farming, his tractor, harvester, and other farm equipment, and by truck his product then goes to market to be processed into a food product for our consumption, which requires packaging that may be a paper product, which involves the logging industry to harvest the pulp trees to be made into paper products, namely cardboard boxes for the cornfakes that end up on your table. That’s just the beginning; I’ve only touched on one item in the store. The transportation segment, be it planes, trains, boats, trucks, cars, that run on fuel and are on the move throughout the world 24 hours seven days a week.

This shutdown in the name of climate change has driven up the price of everything. What a farce. To change the climate will take the whole world to change how we live. What we are experiencing, I think, is God calling us to take heed. He says, I can give you more misery to complain about, I’ve given you the choice between good and evil. Imagine what it would be like for us that every day would be like the best day you have ever had, and every bit of news would be good news, life-giving, joyful, and inspiring. It’s there for us, waiting for us to cross the line, be it good or evil that we choose. God created the world for us to enjoy and not to destroy as it seems to be heading for. God is in charge and alway will be. As I once heard, God does not make junk, only people do Roger Radermacher Hamilton

Opposed to roundabout

We vehemently oppose the idea of a roundabout at the intersection of Bell Crossing and US Highway 93. As a matter of fact, we want to know who came up with it, and why? Was federal funding provided that you feel needs to be used for anything, regardless of whether the project is valid, or the funding will be lost?

After traveling the world over a 14-year period, we came to fnd out that the countries that previously relied on trafc circles to move trafc (England, Scotland, Australia, New Zealand, etc.), no longer do. These countries now build intersections very similar to those in the United States. Our people must think that if the idea came from somewhere

else it must be good. This is not a good assumption.

In our experience, having spent years in countries with roundabouts around the world, they do not improve trafc fow. We assume you’ve driven through round-abouts. Trafc slows down as drivers assess what to do and where to go. They are confusing and an accident waiting to happen. This is especially an issue for Ravalli County as many of the drivers in Ravalli County are senior citizens, most of whom would fnd a roundabout very confusing. In addition, winter driving conditions would only compound the safety issues. Roundabouts are only efective in areas with little & slow-moving trafc (i.e. residential areas).

Has a cost-beneft analysis been completed which compares the proposed roundabout plan with the simple installation of a computer-controlled trafc light which would allow trafc to fow efciently? Transformers on the Northeast corner would most likely have to be moved to provide a circle that would be large enough with adequate lane size to accommodate semi-trucks & the many trucks with trailers that travel US Highway 93. Has this been analyzed?

It would be irresponsible to build the roundabout simply because a government agency provided funds to do so, without consideration for the safety of the drivers and the increase in property damage. Furthermore, it would be a waste of taxpayer money.

Charles E.

McWilliam,

P.E. Catherine M. McWilliam Hamilton

Thank you to community

I am writing to express my gratitude to our community for the overwhelming support and participation in Robert’s Run. This event, held in memory of Robert Leonardi, was a great success thanks to the collective eforts of so many dedicated individuals and organizations. The Hamilton School District, Montana Highway Patrol, Ravalli County Sherif Ofce, American Legion, Hamilton Fire Department, Ravalli County Search and Rescue, and Bitterroot Health all played crucial roles in ensuring the event ran smoothly and safely.

A special thank you is also extended to the 70 sponsors and over 100 volunteers who generously contributed their time, resources, and energy. Your dedication made it possible to not only honor Robert’s spirit but also to raise signifcant funds for the Play Like Robert Foundation. This foundation will continue to provide resources to make an impact upon children’s lives and our local communities. Your contributions have made a meaningful impact, and for that, we are profoundly grateful.

Finally, I want to acknowledge our broader community for coming together in celebration of Robert’s spirit. Your participation and energy truly highlighted the unity and compassion that defnes our community. It is heartwarming to see how we can come together to support a noble cause Thank you once again for your unwavering support and generosity. We look forward to seeing you next year in 2025 on the frst Saturday in August.

Doug Martin, Race Director Robert’s Run

Roundabout

The Montana Department of Transportation should be ashamed of themselves, for brainwashing the residents of the Bitterroot Valley. Proposing a ‘Roundabout’ on Highway 93 and Bell

Crossing. We can only assume those that have made the decision to do this are city dwellers and with the intention of trying a “trendy roundabout” on a U.S. highway. With a 70 MPH speed limit – just for the sake of experiment. I must remind them we ARE NOT A SIDE STREET IN MISSOULA.

This is a four-lane highway with 18-wheelers, with many pulling ‘pups’ bringing supplies in and out for the valley and Idaho - 24 hours/7 days a week. Have any of the MDT promoters asked the drivers of those big rigs how they will slow down and navigate through a roundabout and meet a screaming ambulance or a fre truck racing to a fre, let alone a deputy racing to an accident up or down the valley? What then, MDT ? Where is your common sense when the TRUE ANSWER IS A 4-WAY STOP LIGHT.

These meetings are set up to push this through as it feels like they have no intention of changing. These meetings are set up at the Stevensville High School Library.

Next meeting is August 14, 12:00 - 6:00 pm. And again August 28, 2:008:00 p.m.

Those drivers of 18-wheelers and beyond are urged to attend. And advise those behind the desk how difcult it is to navigate around the ‘roundabout’. Judy and Jim Martin Victor

Thanks from American Legion

American Legion Fort Owen Post 94 members want to thank the Stevensville community for their support of our annual Duck Derby fundraiser held during the Creamery Picnic. While all 600 ducks were competitive right up to the end, the following were the frst six and last duck money winners across the line: #163 -- $600 #218 -- $300 #109 -- $200 #152 -- $100 #250 -- $75 #122 -- $50

The fnal duck (Tail End Charlie, we call him) was #376 -- $10.

We also want to share an emotional testament to your support which occurred when the winners were being contacted after the race. Tradition has our Post Commander, Garrick Doll, calling the individual winners to inform them that they had a winning duck with the associated prize money. In one case, he was unable to establish contact initially because the phone number on the ticket had been disconnected. Not stopping there, however, he was able to trace the phone number to an address. He then went there but no one answered the door. On his second try to physically contact the winner, he was able to talk to a neighbor who explained that the winning ticket holder was having a hard time because of the recent economic conditions, but steered him to where to fnd the individual. To make a long story short, it turned out that the ticket holder had bought the ticket because of their strong belief in supporting veterans even though their money was very tight. Thus, the winnings went to someone who really needed it. We also want to thank the “Duck Whackers,” the members of the Bitterroot Valley Military Program, who followed along behind the ducks, keeping them from being hung up in the grass on the sides of the ditch.

Jerry Esmay American Legion Post 94 Stevensville

A Course of Love study

group

Fridays 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Center for Spiritual Life, Hamilton Call: 406-381-6480

Florence American Legion

Florence American Legion Post

134 is having a free pancake breakfast on the frst Saturday of each month from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Florence Rural Fire Hall.

Yoga for Veterans FREE to veterans, frst responders, and their families! Tuesdays, 1-2pm at the American Legion Post 94 in Stevensville Register at: redwillowlearning.org OR call 406-530-7175. Come see us on 1st Friday in May ‘bout 1800 for more info! We’ll be in front of Active Care Wellness on Main in Stevensville.

MS Support Group

Bitterroot MS Support Group meets every 3rd Thursday of the month in the Gallery room at the Cofee Cup Cafe in Hamilton, 500 S 1st Street, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Have a slice of pie, dinner, or just come to chat with others about living with Multiple Sclerosis. This is a positive and uplifting group that holds open discussions, and the occasional guest speaker. Find more information at www.nationalmssociety.org or contact Jackie Peterson, (970)518-293, jackierpeterson@gmail. com

Bitterroot Celtic Society

The Bitterroot Celtic Society meets every 3rd Thursday at 6 p.m. at BJ’s restaurant in Hamilton. The Bitterroot Celtic Society is a passionate group of volunteers, dedicated to keeping the Celtic culture, heritage, and history alive in the Bitterroot Valley. Their biggest event is the Bitterroot Celtic Games and Gathering, held every third weekend in August at the Historic Daly Mansion. They also host a Burns’ Night supper, St. Andrew’s, St. Patrick’s, and Tartan day events. The BCS is a non-proft organization. The public, new members, and the curious are always welcome to attend. For any time changes or additional committee meeting info, follow their Facebook page for updates.

Hamilton school board Regular Board Meeting/Final Budget Hearing

Tuesday – August 13, 2024

6:30 p.m. – District Ofce – Conference Room

The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at: https://www.youtube.com/@ HSD3Boardmtg

Negotiations with the Classifed Union

Wednesday – August 14, 2024

12:00 p.m. – District Ofce –Conference Room

This meeting will be conducted with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at: https://www.youtube.com/@

HSD3Boardmtg

Governance Committee Meeting Thursday – September 5, 2024

12:00 p.m. – District Ofce Conference Room

The Committee will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at:https://www.youtube. com/@HSD3Boardmtg

Regular Board Meeting

Tuesday – September 10, 2024

6:30 p.m. – District Ofce – Conference Room

The Board will be conducting this meeting with live participation. In addition to meeting in person, the District will also be streaming the meeting on YouTube. You are encouraged to join the meeting at: https://www.youtube. com/@HSD3Boardmtg

NV Library events

Birdies for Books Golf Tournament

– Sat. Aug 17 at 8am

Announcing the Annual North Valley Public Library fundraising golf tournament! All proceeds beneft the Library. Go to charitygolftoday.com/ nvlibrary to learn more. Library Board Meeting – Wed. Aug 21 at 3pm

Meetings are open to the public. Agendas and the Public Participation are posted on the Library’s website. If you are a member of the public and are unable to attend the Board meetings, the Board would still like to hear from you. Please email the Director at denisea@northvalleylibrary.org or you can email board members directly. A link to Trustee contact information can be found at Montana.gov.

Lone Rock Park Board

The Lone Rock Park Board will meet on Wednesday, August 14 at 7:30 p.m. at Three Mile Community Center, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Road. Public welcome.

Pachyderm Club

The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, August 16 at 12 noon at the Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be Sherif Steve Holton. The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.

Golf Tourney to Beneft

NVPL Library Hole sponsors, teams, and silent auction items are still needed for Birdies

for Books, the annual golf scramble to beneft the North Valley Public Library.

This year’s nine-hole event is set for Aug. 17 at Whitetail Golf Course in Stevensville. Check-in begins at 8 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 9 a.m. Also included are a catered lunch, awards, and a silent auction.

Cost is $200 for each team of four. The cost to sponsor a hole is $300. Registration forms are available at the golf course, 4295 Wild Fowl Lane, and the North Valley Public Library, 208 Main St.

To sponsor a hole, donate an item, or for more information, contact Donna Bainbridge at (406) 370-4563 or dbridge@montana.com or Jody Torrey at jodymarietorrey@gmail.com or (406) 274-8454.

Birdies for Books is presented by the NVPL Foundation and Friends of the Library. Both organizations raise funds to support the North Valley Public Library.

‘Wonders of Hot Water’ Lecture Series

The rich variety of hot springs around the world will be the subject of a series of weekly lectures at Lolo Hot Springs Resort. The lectures will be held every Tuesday from 7 to 8 p.m. through August 20.

Jef Birkby, a hot springs book author and geothermal energy consultant, will bring to life stories of frontier hot springs resorts and the modern uses of hot water for geothermal energy projects. Birkby’s lively talk and historical photos illuminate the geology, biology, social history, curative properties, and ways we use the power and heat of the earth.

The lectures are free and open to the public. Guests are encouraged to soak in the hot springs and enjoy dinner at the resort prior to the lectures.

Lecture topics and schedule:

Tuesday, August 13 - Capturing the Earth’s Energy for Space Heating and Power Generation Tuesday, August 20 - International Thermal Spas and Geothermal Energy Project.

Bitterroot Quilters Guild

Bitterroot Quilters Guild will meet on Wednesday, August 21 at Daly Leach Community Room, 1010 W Main, Hamilton. This is one week earlier in the month than usual, due to the Ravalli County Fair the last week of the month. Doors open at 6 pm for socializing and shopping; the meeting will come to order at 6:30. There will be a Fat Quarter

Drawing, 50/50 Pot, bargain sales at the Ugli Bin as well as member show and tell.

Driver safety course

Bitterroot Health (formerly Marcus Daly Hospital), located at 1200 Westwood Drive, Hamilton, is hosting an ALL NEW 2023 AARP Driver Safety Course on Friday, August 23, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. This all new safe driving course is designed for drivers age 50 and over, all drivers are welcome. The new program features laws and updates specifc to Montana, Defensive Driving, Winter Driving, new Vehicle Technologies, to name a few. Class size is limited; pre-registration is advised. There are no tests or written exams and Montana mandates insurance discounts for qualifed drivers. Certifcates are now good for 3 years! Class fee: $20.00, AARP members; $25.00, for non-members. For class sign up, call: Hamilton Insurance at 406-3636583. For further information call Thom Ainsworth, Instructor, at 406-369-0149.

For Women Only Introduction To Defensive Handguns

August 24 & September 7

This two-day course is for women with little or no experience with handguns, who may be frightened of handguns or who are considering acquiring a handgun.

The frst day course is designed to assist you in choosing the right handgun – for you. It will also introduce you to the facilities of the Whittecar Range. There will be discussions on handgun safety, basic operation of revolvers, semi-automatic handguns, and the cartridges used in each type of handgun. The legal aspects of the use of force will be presented and discussed. Handguns will be provided so that you may handle the diferent types and models. Ammunition will also be provided for a live fre session on the range. A self defense book, specifcally for women, will also be provided.

The second day course will teach basic defensive shooting using the students’ own equipment. Safe gun handling will be taught and stressed. Various types of ammunition and the performance of each type will be discussed.

The class will be held at the Whittecar Range on Blodgett View Road and is limited to 10 participants. Successful completion of this two day course meets the education requirements for application to the state for a concealed

carry permit. For an application or further information call Lee at 642-3590 or Jim at 360-8392.

Art Event at the 2024 Ravalli County Fair

The Ravalli County Fairgrounds Foundation and the Ravalli County Fair have teamed up again to present, Plein Air at the Fair, at the 2024 Ravalli County Fair! The 2024 Plein Air at the Fair event is being sponsored by Norma Lee Pfaf Fine Art, Clearwater Credit Union & The Paper Clip. It is an opportunity for artists to create artwork that is inspired by and created solely, at the fair. Contest registered artists will be painting on the fairgrounds, Wednesday, August 28th anytime between 10am and 10pm; art will be judged on Thursday morning with awards for Best of Show, Best Fair Theme and People’s Choice.

Artwork will be on exhibit in the Plein Air at the Fair Art Gallery, located in the Farmers Bank Event Center, and will be for sale during the fair with proceeds to the artists and the Ravalli County Fairgrounds Foundation, Inc. a 501(c)3 nonproft organization.

For more information contact Ravalli County Fairgrounds

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

American Legion 2024 All Conference & All State

The Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A West District announced its All Conference and All State teams for the 2024 season. As always, many Bitterroot Bucs and the Bitterroot Red Sox players made the teams.

The following Bitterroot Valley players were honored:

All Conference Honorable Mention

Bitterroot Bucs: Levi Winters

All Conference First Team

Bitterroot Bucs: Jake Roth, Trapper Oster, Mason Arlington, Drew Wagner

All State

2024 fall sports preseason begins

The 2024 high school fall sports season is about to begin. It might seem like spring sports just ended, but time and tide wait for no man, including sports fans. The 2024 fall season ofcially starts on August 15, as this is the frst day high school golf can practice. Then on August 16, all the other high school sports teams can ofcially practice.

So up and down the valley, you’ll see area athletes practicing on soccer and football felds, running down roads, and competing in gyms.

Between Darby, Hamilton, Corvallis, Victor, Stevensville, and Florence, there are roughly 34 varsity teams in the Bitterroot Valley. This includes: six football teams, six volleyball teams, six

cheer squads, six cross country teams, three girls soccer teams, three boys soccer teams, three golf teams, and one girls fag football team. And that’s not counting all the JV, freshman, and middle school teams in each of these sports.

Needless to say, there are a lot of sports going on in the next couple of

months. Student athletes, parents, volunteers, referees, administrators and coaches have dedicated a lot of time and efort to these activities.

Our communities are stronger and more cohesive because of this. So win or lose, get out there and show your support!

Bitterroot Red Sox: Jackson Lubke, Reese Earp, Cash Lawrence, Owen Marston

Bitterroot Bucs: Jack Roth, Trapper Oster Bitterroot Red Sox: Jackson Lubke, Reese Earp

The 2024 All State selections for the Montana/Alberta American Legion Class A West District. For the Bitterroot Red Sox: #2 Lackson Lubke and #18 Reese Earp. For the Bitterroot Bucs: #7 Jake Roth and #10 Trapper Oster. Photo by Hope Earp.

The 2024 high school fall sports season will begin on August 15. Between Darby, Hamilton, Corvallis, Victor, Stevensville, and Florence, there are roughly 34 varsity teams in the Valley. The Florence football team (above) were the 2023 State Champs - the Falcons are seeking a 4th straight state title this fall. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography

Montana FWP says, watch out for lizards

FWP requests that recreationists be on the lookout for greater short-horned lizards this fall

As you are hunting, hiking, and exploring Montana this fall, be sure to take a break from scanning the horizon and look down at the ground once in a while. Not only will this help you avoid stepping on a cactus or a rattlesnake, but you might also see one of eastern Montana’s rarely seen critters… the greater short-horned lizard, commonly known as a “horny toad.” If you do, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks would like to know about it.

The greater short-horned lizard, Phrynosoma hernandesi, was once considered the second most abundant reptile along the Missouri River in Montana in the late 19th Century, second only to the western rattlesnake. Currently, however, these lizards are considered a ‘Species of Greatest Inventory Need’ in Montana due to insufcient data on their population and distribution.

According to Nicole Hussey, FWP wildlife biologist in Region 6, “We have been conducting surveys in eastern Montana to try and determine status and distribution as well as fll in data gaps; however, their elusive nature and cryptic coloration make them extremely difcult to locate.”

“This is where we can use hunters and other outdoor recreationists’ help,” continued Hussey, “because oftentimes, people just accidentally come across one.”

Hussey and other biologists are seeking the help of folks out trekking around the countryside to provide incidental observations in addition to

their structured survey eforts.

“If you happen to observe one anywhere in the state,” says Hussey, “please record the location, get GPS coordinates if possible, and note the date, number observed, and take a photo with something in the picture for scale if you can.”

Observations can be reported to your local FWP biologist.

• Region 4 (Great Falls): Brandi Skone at bskone@mt.gov

• Region 5 (Billings): Megan O’Reilly at moreilly@mt.gov

• Region 6/7 (Glasgow): Nicole Hussey at hussey@mt.gov

A few things about the greater short-horned lizard:

Key ID:

Adult greater short-horned lizards are diurnal, meaning they are most active during the warmer daylight hours.

Coloration is cryptic with the soil (blends in) and can vary by locality. The broad, fattened body separates this lizard from the other three lizard species regularly documented in Montana, and the range overlaps only with the common sagebrush lizard, which is much more slender. The head has a “heart-shaped” appearance when viewed from above. They are usually easiest to spot when they move and catch your eye.

Habitat: Greater short-horned lizards are found in the eastern half of Montana,

but in scattered locations throughout their range. They are often found on south- or east-facing slopes of coulees and ridge tops, and some open fats. They prefer habitats with sagebrush, creeping juniper, or rabbitbrush with sparse bunch grass, patches of bare

ground, and shale-like soil. They are even found in some ponderosa pine stands. Although they seem like they would make a good pet, after you get a quick picture and GPS location, please leave these fascinating critters where you fnd them!

RATES: Stevensville Town Council in disagreeement

Continued from page 1

During the regular town council meeting, held Thursday, August 8, Michalson stated frst that that rule is no longer in the council rules, and second that the regulation to give 48 hour notice is not defned in Montana Code Annotated (MCA). He also stated that rule was meant and defned to be used specifcally for regular town meetings, and that it does not apply to special town council meetings, like the one on Tuesday. However, in the current rules posted on the Town’s website, under Town Council Rules, it states, “The Mayor may elect to revise the agenda by adding an item for consideration, provided the revised agenda shall be posted and distributed no less than 48 hours before the meeting.” Additionally, this is written not under any section regarding meetings, but under the section specifcally referring to agenda items for any town meeting. This is laid out in Part IV. Agenda, Section 1. He did correctly state that the town council “48 hour notice” is not defned in the MCA.

During the regular meeting on Thursday, when Michalson addressed the public and the council, he stated directly to the council members who were not aware of the change, “It is your obligation to take the time to ask questions and to dig into everything.” He said that they should have looked into the changes ahead of time.

Before voting on the proposed water and sewer rate increases at Tuesday’s meeting, the council held a public hearing on the proposed rate increases, as well as a proposal to discontinue the utility bill assistance program.

frst.

Another to speak was Sarah Lucas. Lucas attended because her mother is one who benefts from the Utility Bill Assistance Program. She stated that her mother has been in Stevensville for 30 years and qualifes for the assistance due to limited income. “We’re in an extreme hardship,” Lucas said. She said the program is for the elderly and disabled and ending it would leave these people out in the cold.

Later in the meeting, Michalson said that they were told by MMIA (the Town’s insurance carrier) that they could not legally use this program as it was written, and the council ultimately voted to discontinue the program. However, Barker commented, saying, “As a council, we would like to come back and have a discussion on how to

deplete reserves, “we’re only fooling ourselves.”

Michalson added that over 15 million gallons per month of treated water is leaking into the ground due to the town’s aging infrastructure. Without ample money in their reserves to the tune of millions, the town will not be able to provide the match for grant funding to do the necessary repairs to mitigate these leaks. Leaks they cannot fnd, as they are subsurfaced in pipes, some of which are nearing or over 100 years old. Without those grants, the town will not be able to aford repairs as they arise. According to Michalson, they are a single major repair away from catastrophe.

“We’re not doing this because we want to, we’re doing this because we’ve been told to,” said Michalson.

identity. She explained that some towns and cities have plenty of water rights, and are working on lowering costs to bring in new businesses as they are lacking in those respects. Others do not have near enough water to go around and must provide up to date service to a small community. That service must remain up to standards. In these small communities, the costs are often higher because they have “less people to spread the cost across,” stated Schular. This point was reiterated by Robert Underwood, who assists the town with accounting and bookkeeping. He stated, when doing basic budgeting, he was always taught, “You have the expenses and you have the amount of people that can cover the expenses.” Underwood

One of the frst to speak was Marilyn Wolf, a former town council member. “I am deeply concerned that this is a great hardship for people and businesses.” She spoke specifcally on the rate changes. To illustrate her point, she said that, in looking at other local municipalities including Hamilton and Missoula, residents there are paying around $55 for both sewer and water combined. She said these rate increases could not be considered, “reasonable and just.” She suggested impact fees for developers instead and also said the budget should be settled

set this up the right way.” This would indeed come to pass at the Thursday meeting, where the council decided to hold a committee of the whole meeting in September to start creating a new program to help town residents facing fnancial hardship with their utility bills.

After public comment, Michalson and others spoke to explain the need for the proposed increases. He stated that the town has an aging infrastructure, and that they are paying on what was originally over $6 million in loan debt to the USDA. According to him, if they do not raise the rates to keep up, and to prevent continuing to

“We did not raise the rates every year sensibly.” To help explain this, Bobbie Shular with Montana Rural Water attended to answer questions. “I know this is difcult to look at,” she said. “This is a huge challenge to have to face.” She reiterated the needs given by Michalson, explaining that her ofce helps come up with the numbers after looking at a town’s fnances. “Every year you don’t do an increase you’re that much further behind the ball.”

Schular addressed the concern about other municipalities brought up by Wolf, stating that every town is diferent and has its own unique

also commented on the need for the rate changes, stating, “This has been a problem for years and I want to thank the mayor and the council for taking this on.”

Prior to the vote, council member Brown stated, “I just want the general public to realize this is a hardship for the council as well… This is really going to hurt my family.”

During the Tuesday meeting, Michalson stated the following, regarding the public’s confusion on the town’s processes. “Come to the meetings!” said Michalson. “This is your town, this is your money. You need to come to the meetings.”

Photo courtesy FWP.

Bobbie Schular addressing members of the community during the Stevensville Special Town Council Meeting, Tuesday, Aug 6. Photo by John Dowd.

Frank J. DeGregory, Sr.

Frank J. DeGregory, Sr., 81, passed away peacefully at his home in Victor surrounded by his family on August 1, 2024.

Frank was born to Frank and Rachel DeGregory in Hawthorne, CA. In 1962, he married his high school sweetheart, Elizabeth A. Cordes, and together they raised fve children. Frank worked many years as a salesman for Dunn Edwards Paint and later for Eastgate Hardware in Missoula and Ace Hardware in Florence after the family moved to Montana. Frank enjoyed camping, fshing, boat rides, spending time with his family, and riding his big green tractor. He is preceded in death by both his parents and his two younger brothers, Lester and Roger. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth, his fve children,

Heather (Jerry), Eileen (JB), Frank (Stefanie), Deborah (Mike) and Stephanie (Tim). Frank was also blessed with 15 grandchildren: Naomi (David), Timothy, Matthew, Rebekah, Mallory, David (Lindsey), Samuel, Benjamin (Jessica), Kevin, Wade, Sophia, Sarai, Jack, Tana and Emily; and six great-grandchildren: Gianna, Liam, Luke, Jack, Olivia and Cheyenne.

A funeral mass was celebrated on Wednesday, August 7, 2024 at St. Francis Catholic Church in Hamilton. In lieu of fowers the family suggests donations to local food pantries or to Partners in Home Care Hospice in Missoula. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com.

DPHHS wants to hear from centenarians

Montana centenarians to be honored in October, 2024

The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) will honor Montana centenarians during the 55th annual Governor’s Conference on Aging on October 1, 2024.

The annual conference will take place at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center. Centenarians will be honored during a luncheon from noon to 1:30 p.m.

DPHHS is asking Montanans who will turn age 100 as of December 31, 2024, or those who are already over the age of 100 to submit their name and a brief profle.

All centenarians who submit information will receive a recognition certifcate from Governor Greg Gianforte. Centenarians, or friends or family members, are encouraged to fll out this

form by September 15, 2024. The frst fve questions are required to receive a certifcate.

• Centenarian’s name.

• Birth date of centenarian.

• Contact person (whom to send certifcate to).

• Contact person’s phone number, mailing address, and email.

What city do they live in now? Is the centenarian a Veteran? If yes, years, branch and location of service.

Where were they born?

If not born in Montana, what is their story about how they arrived to Montana?

What is the secret to their longevity?

What has been the most amazing event in their life that they would like to share?

What is their favorite quote?

Anything else they would like us to know about the centenarian?

Please provide a picture of the centenarian when the information above is submitted. Please send centenarian information to:

Governor’s Conference on AgingCentenarians DPHHS - SLTC – Aging Services

Attention: Tessa Bailly 1100 N. Last Chance Gulch Helena, MT 59601

Or email Tessa at Tessa.bailly@ mt.gov

This information can also be submitted online.

The annual Governor’s Conference on Aging was created in 1968 to ofer information and education to our older citizens, their families, and caregivers. Attendees include the elderly, persons with disabilities, caregivers, and service providers. There will also be several vendors on hand to share their information. The conference covers topics relevant to all people who are dealing with aging and disability issues. Registration for the conference is now open. For more information about the event, including how to register, go to the conference website.

Individuals can also call toll-free at 1-800-332-2272, or call the Senior and Long Term Care Division at (406) 4444077.

Bitterroot Health Foundation gala raises over $70k

The Bitterroot Health Foundation celebrated a resounding success at its annual gala event on Friday, August 2, despite sweltering 100-degree temperatures. More than 200 dedicated supporters gathered to uphold the vision of Margaret Daly, dedicated to expanding healthcare access across the Bitterroot Valley.

Among the esteemed guests were Rob and Terry Ryan, recognized for their steadfast contributions as major donors to the hospital over the past two decades. Their unwavering support exemplifes the community spirit driving

the Foundation’s mission. Al Garver, Senior Director of the Bitterroot Health Foundation, estimated the Ryans have in total gifted over $250,000.

Established with a commitment to enhancing local healthcare since 1931, the Bitterroot Health Foundation has played a pivotal role in transforming patient care. Through generous donations and community-driven initiatives, the Foundation has funded critical medical equipment, expanded facilities, and supported essential programs benefting residents across the region. Recent eforts have aided building the

Stevensville Clinic, the Darby Scripps Clinic and the Oncology & Infusion Center

“The success of this gala is a testament to the community’s dedication to improving healthcare accessibility,” said Garver. “With the funds raised, we will continue Margaret Daly’s legacy by investing in initiatives that ensure quality care for all.”

The event, highlighted by a fourcourse dinner catered by The Crave and a performance by jazz ensemble J.K. & Friends, raised $70,000, which will directly support the Foundation’s

ongoing eforts to elevate healthcare standards in the Bitterroot Valley. For details about the event, read Garver’s article at bitterroothealth.org/ Gala2024

“It’s not just events like these that help; our volunteers donate their invaluable time and our BH staf generously donated over $100,000 to the Foundation last year,” said Garver. For more information about the Bitterroot Health Foundation and its initiatives, or to donate online, visit bitterroothealth.org/GIVE or contact the Foundation directly at (406) 375-4674.

James Henry Clark Missoula - James Henry Clark, 84, of Victor passed away on

St. Patrick Hospital surrounded by his wife and children. Brothers Mortuary & Crematory are honored to care for Mr. Clark.

Fishin’ and campin’ with them boyz

Jon is a great kid.

When my grandson Silas invited Jon to join us on a fshing and camping trip I couldn’t have been more pleased. Silas is a great kid, too.

I knew they’d bring a sense of adventure, enthusiasm, laughter, and just enough delightful mischief to keep each other busy. I wouldn’t have to do much but direct trafc, pass out chores, and enjoy my time with them.

in’ with them boyz’

Jon and Silas are both thirteen, and have known each other since they were babies. Their moms are best friends and their children, Jon and Silas’ siblings, are growing up together.

When Silas was nine he expressed a wish to go camping and fshing with Grandpa Chuck. After seasons of delays and cancellations, that time fnally came for Silas. I told him he could invite a friend and was delighted when he chose Jon.

A couple of years back I introduced Silas’ family to Patrick McManus, and Pat’s boyhood idol, the old woodsman Rancid Crabtree. If you haven’t yet discovered young Pat and the crusty old Rancid in McManus’ writings, their adventures are hilarious. When I sent an itinerary and checklist to the boy’s parents, I couldn’t help but lapse into Rancid Crabtree mode: “Fishin’ an’ Camp-

by Chuck Stranahan

“I wuz planning on feedin them boyz sum fapjacks fer brekfus while we wuz campin and I always kep a box of pancake mix handy in the camp box. When I got to repackin’ and chasin’ the hibernating critters outta the camp box and I noticed that the pancake mix felt like it had a brick inside. I looked at the expiration date and it said March of 2013. Serious, I ain’t makin’ this up. It’s been around nearly as long as them boyz has. I throwed it away.’

“So fer brekfus I’ll feed them boyz fresh hen fruit and pig meat an’ maybe some spuds. And I’ll maybe pick up some fresh pancake mix fer

brekfus next day.’

“When I throwed out the rest of the stuf that didn’t walk away on its own, that camp box was almost bare. I’ll restock it with other stuf so them boyz don’t starve or have their bellies explode from sumpthin’ they ate.’

“I’ll have camp chairs, 7 X 10 Coleman Olympic tent, a kite, fy tying gear, stuf like that. The idea is to make memories and have fun.”

Jon arrived early. His dad brought him to the house, and Silas’ mom brought him to camp later. Silas missed the frst evening’s fshing, while John got of to a jump-start under my friend Mike Hansen’s tutelage.

The following day the fshing started slow and when the weather turned fat-out hot, Silas announced, “I feel like jumping in the river.”

That’s all Jon needed. The boys took of in a furry of giggles for a tall rock that jutted into the top of the

long pool they were fshing, climbed it, jumped almost in unison and foated the sixty-yard length of the pool before returning to camp and fy tying, kite fying, and loafng until time for the evening t hatch.

Before we set out for our fnal evening of fshing I told them where to fnd trout.

Jon, with his head-start from Mike the evening before, caught four that evening while Silas got an impromptu casting lesson. As I left him to practice, he yelped with excitement, “I’ve got one!” His fsh was a good one –possibly the best of the trip, and he was super-excited until the fsh went under a rock and broke him of.

“I looked for foam, current moving at walking speed, green water and edges,” Silas reported, “I kept putting my fy in those spots.”

Silas was learning. The fsh will come later.

Over cofee the following day I found Silas making breakfast and Jon breaking camp. I mused: I couldn’t ask for better camping companions. We headed for a small wilderness stream. This was golden time for the boys to explore on their own. They took of down a trail at a pace I couldn’t match. I set up a camp chair and waited for them to return. They explored, found trout, lost a couple of fies, and returned wet and with grins on their faces. For the ride home they talked of next time.

Grandpa Chuck? He got totally skunked, but really didn’t care. Like them boyz, he was there to have fun and make memories.

• The original 40 acres for the fairgrounds was purchased by Ravalli County in 1913, for the sum of $9,750, the grounds now total almost 67 acres.

• Marcus Daly hosted the frst Ravalli County Fair in Hamilton in 1894.

• The Fairgrounds has an open gate policy and is a peaceful place to bring the family to enjoy the outdoors.

Fishing and camping gear packed, Silas and Grandpa Chuck break camp. Poto by Jonathan Marrow.

Continued from page 1

profound environmental and economic impact throughout the region.

“Our job is certainly to address present needs, but we’re always looking to manage the needs of tomorrow,” said Chad Bishop, director of the wildlife biology program. “Adding this chair in fsheries will increase our capacity in aquatic undergraduate and graduate education while helping us better meet the very real research needs on conserving native fsheries and supporting recreational fsheries in Western Montana.”

The Siebel-Lewis Chair elevates the wildlife biology program’s goal of training leading fsh biologists through classroom instruction and immersive, hands-on feldwork with real-world applications in fsheries conservation and management.

It gives the program the opportunity to build on its already cutting-edge fsheries research, including work done by Associate Professor Andrew Whiteley. Whiteley earned a prestigious $800,000 CAREER grant

from the National Science Foundation in 2017 for his work on the efectiveness of gene rescue on trout populations.

“An endowed chair in fsheries gives the University of Montana even greater ability to advance our well-established track record of outstanding research, education and conservation,” said UM President Seth Bodnar. “UM has been a leader in the feld of wildlife biology for decades and this addition only furthers that reputation as well as the university’s ability to attract world-renowned faculty and top undergraduate and graduate students.”

The university has been at the forefront of fsheries scholarship since the 1970s, when UM Regents Professor Emeritus Fred Allendorf and former biology professor Robb Leary established the Montana State Conservation Genetics Lab, where Whiteley

is now the principal investigator. The lab spawned a partnership with Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks that resulted in the creation of one of the world’s frst comprehensive databases on native trout.

“We are overjoyed to help the University of Montana work to preserve our state’s fsh, rivers, and watersheds which each year attract fy-fshing enthusiasts from around the globe and provide a signifcant economic boost to Montana,” said Ken Siebel. “We believe healthy rivers and streams are not only intrinsically valuable, but also beneft all our citizens.”

The introduction of the new chair comes amid the UM Foundation and Franke College’s “Treasure Montana: Cultivating Our Tomorrow” fundraising campaign. The campaign aims to inspire $20 million in private support to construct a new state-

of-the-art, 60,000-square foot hub for environment and conservation research on campus. The efort will match $25 million committed to the project by the Montana Legislature in 2021.

Wildlife biology is an interdisciplinary program between the W.A. Franke College of Forestry and Conservation, the Division of Biological Sciences within the College of Humanities and Sciences, and the Montana Wildlife Cooperative Research Unit. An endowed fsheries chair brings the program’s total number of endowed chairs to four.

Recruiting the fsheries expert who will hold the Siebel-Lewis Chair in Fisheries Science and lead UM’s fsheries work will begin with the creation of an interdisciplinary hiring committee to conduct a nationwide search for candidates, with hopes of flling the position by the beginning of the 202526 academic year.

The Siebel-Lewis Endowed Chair in Fisheries Science honors donors Huey Lewis, left, and Ken Siebel, who joined together with more than 50 donors to establish the endowed position that will bolster and expand the aquatic focus of UM’s wildlife biology program. Lewis and Siebel both own property along the Bitterroot River near Stevensville, including portions of the storied Mitchell Slough branch of the river. UM photo.

The announcement of the endowed chair in fsheries science comes at a crucial time, as declining native trout populations have alarmed biologists, fshing outftters and anglers alike. Here, Associate Professor Andrew Whiteley looks at a trout while surveying Rattlesnake Creek with UM students. UM photo.

Book Review

Book Review

Booked for the season

Booked for the season

“Bite: An Incisive History of Teeth, from Hagfsh to Humans” by Bill Schuttc.2024, Algonquin Books

$31.00 320 pages

“The Year of Living Constitutionally: One Man’s Humble Quest to follow the Constitution’s Original Meaning” by A.J. Jacobsc.2024, Crown Publishing $30.00 304 pages

Let’s see those pearly-whites.

They say you have to fght for the right to party.

You also have the right to rant and the right to be wrong. You can belt “All Right Now” at full-blast, if the lyrics feel right, right now. You may have the right to turn right on a red light because you’re an upright citizen. And in the new book “The Year of Living Constitutionally” by A.J. Jacobs those are just a few of the things you got right.

New Yorkers aren’t used to seeing a guy in a tri-corner hat, carrying a musket, but if it meant living like our Founding Fathers, A.J. Jacobs was game.

C’mon, smile big for everybody. Show those straight dazzling teeth, You know you’re not completely dressed without it, so give us that grin. Let’s see some chompers earto-ear or, as in the new book “Bite” by Bill Schutt, in rows along the nose. We humans share a lot of features with our vertebrate brethren. We have closed and protected spinal cords, and some vertebrates have bones or “a form of connective tissue” resembling bones. Most of all, “near the top of our list,” we have teeth in common.

The caution is that not all teeth are the same as the dazzling ones you see on TV ads.

His eforts started some years ago when he wrote a book, “The Year of Living Biblically,” and he noticed that the Bible had a lot in common with America’s Constitution. He’d once lived like a Levite; why not party like it’s 1787?

For example, the teeth of vampire bats are not vampire-like at all; their teeth help the creatures cut into the hide of their prey, so they can lap up a meal of blood. The dental work of the candiru, a small Amazonian fsh, all face backward, which helps keep the creature in tight, dark places such as between fngers and up urinary tracts. Ouch.

The frst order of business was to fnd and actually read the entire Constitution. It was a “revelation... just how much our lives are afected by this 4,543-word document inscribed on calfskin...” We’re afected so much so, even after 200-plus years, that today’s SCOTUS wrestles with centuries-old Constitutional verbiage to make modern laws. Mostly, Jacobs says, any interpretation depends on whether you prefer “living constitutionalism” or originalism. The former argues for adaptation; the latter, for literal interpretation.

Jacobs chose the latter, and living like Ben Franklin, so he learned to write with a quill pen with light from a beeswax candle. George Washington plied Virginia voters with gallons of spirits, and Jacobs appreciated the “liquid courage.” Jacobs tried to vote

Horse teeth grow throughout the equine’s entire life, and you can tell a horse’s approximate age because it’s “long in the tooth.” An elephant’s tusks are teeth, but there’s an assembly line of molars waiting inside the creature’s mouth, too. A snake’s fangs are conveyors of venom, but also work to hold prey in place. Parrotfsh teeth allow the creature to scrape and eat at coral, which is then excreted as sand and which “benefts humans who want to lie on that poop or form it into miniature castles.”

Tiny shrews’ bites are venomous, but they’re unlikely to kill you.

by Terry Schlichenmeyer

by Terry Schlichenmeyer

The Bookworm

more than seven hundred pounds. Sharks can have “upward of thirty thousand teeth over a lifetime...” On the other hand, chickens don’t have teeth, nor do whales.

As for us humans, says Schutt, our teeth tell a lot of tales – about our health, wealth, dietary habits and, in history, teeth tell who had “dismal dental” habits...

today. He joined a re-enactment group and learned to shoot that musket. He took advantage of the free press and the right to assemble (in his living room). He “quartered” a soldier and petitioned Congress. And he determined that when it comes to our Constitution, “We the People” must be vigilant...

You’ve posed in your share of pictures this summer, at family reunions, weekend get-togethers, kids’ events, and you’ve smiled so much, your jaws hurt. So now why not learn what’s behind your lips in “Bite”?

If ever there was a right time to read “The Year of Living Constitutionally,” it’s today. Our lives, our futures are being debated and decided now, in real time. It’s serious stuf. Or not so much, with author A.J. Jacobs at the wheel.

Who knew that history could be so fun? Jacobs makes it so, by bravely living like a Founding Father, even if it seemed embarrassing sometimes – and then he tells us about it.

Remember that guy in high school who’d accept any dare if there was a few bucks involved? Yeah, it’s kind of like that, only better because Jacobs also teaches his readers a thing or two about the years in which our Forefathers lived, and about a document that we can’t – and perhaps shouldn’t – stop talking about.

In a trip around the vertebrate world, author Bill Schutt helps readers to stare into the mouths of danger, death, and the fascinating, all from the safety of their chairs. Sometimes, that can be gruesome; sometimes, it may seem unbelievable; but he makes it funny, too, with plenty of geek humor and researcher jokes. Readers who’ve never considered the mouths of unfamiliar beings will be surprised at what they learn, and delighted at the tiny drops of knowledge to be had here. You’ll cringe, you’ll be amazed, and you’ll feel like a real scientist because the information is easy to understand.

Conversely, alligators, crocodiles, and caimans can, though, with a force of

out loud, but though a secret ballot isn’t a Constitutional right, it’s the law

This is an enjoyable book, maybe a slight bit irreverent for certain readers, but surely full of humor and things you didn’t know. If you think you really need to read “The Year of Living Constitutionally,” well, you’re right.

Posting Date May 6, 2024 Posting Date August 12, 2024

This book will work for an older teen, a gift for your dentist, or for readers who like unusual science books. Find “Bite” and say “cheeeeese.”

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Legal

MONTANA TWEN-

TY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: VICTOR JAIME

SHEPHERD, Deceased.

Probate No. DP-2024-69

Dept. No. 2

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that David Shepherd and Marta Arnold have been appointed co-Personal Representatives of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to David Shepherd and Marta Arnold, the co-Personal Representatives, return receipt requested, in care of Montana Legacy Law, PLLC, 178 South 2nd Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

BS 7-31, 8-7, 8-14-24.

MNAXLP

Joan K. Mell III Branches Law, PLLC 623 S 1st Street P.O. Box 576

Hamilton, Montana 59840

Ph: 406-363-3293

Fax: 281-664-4643

joan@3brancheslaw.com Attorney for Personal Representative

MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF WAYNE WEIDOW, Deceased

Cause No. DP-24-60

Dept No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that Ellen May Weidow has been appointed Personal Representative of the abovenamed estate. All persons having claims against the said deceased are required to present their claims within four (4) months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to Ellen May Weidow, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, in care of III Branches Law, PLLC, P.O. Box 576, Hamilton, MT 59840 or fled with the Clerk of the above court.

Dated this 24th day of July, 2024 at Hamilton, MT. III Branches Law, PLLC /s/ Joan K. Mell\ Joan K. Mell, Montana Bar No. 58399883 Attorney for Personal Representative BS 7-31, 8-7, 8-14-24.

MNAXLP PUBLIC HEARING

Annexation of Properties Into the Hamilton Rural Fire District (Application No. 218) THE RAVALLI COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS will hold a public hearing on TUESDAY, August 20, 2024 at 11:00 AM in the Commissioners Conference Room located at the Ravalli County Administrative Center at 215 S. 4th Street (3rd foor) Hamilton, Montana. The purpose

of this public hearing is to hear a petition by Hamilton Rural Fire District for the Lost Horse area, on behalf of E Worth for Parcel 1024800, B Beller for Parcel 1024110; E Ransberg for Parcels 1024100 and 1024000; P Howard for Parcel 1023900; B&E Bender for Parcels 1024500, 1024400, 1024410, 1024420 and 1024700; KP Properties for Parcels 1024300, 1024600 and 1024310; M&M Blair for Parcel 1024900; E Weber for Parcel 1024910; D Dickey for Parcel 1024920; K Cassens for Parcels 1024210, 1076800 and 1122100; J&J Baecht for Parcel 1024710; McAdd LLC for Parcels 1060600 and 1044510; T Atkinson Trustee for Parcel 1027700; South 40 Inc for Parcel 1049300 and P&C Bartol for Parcel 1044500, that their properties be annexed into the Hamilton Rural Fire District with decision by Resolution. BS 8-7, 8-14-24. MNAXLP

Megan S. Winderl CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C. 99 Marcus Street, 3rd Floor Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 218-4888 meganw@cwlawmt.com pleadings@cwlawmt.com

Attorneys for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF TIMOTHY GEORGE BURKS, Deceased. Probate No.: DP-41-20240000065

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 frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred.

Claims must either be mailed to William P. Steinberger, the Personal Representative, in care of CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C., 99 Marcus Street, 3rd Floor, Hamilton, Montana 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of Montana that the foregoing is true and correct.

DATED this 1st day of August, 2024.

/s/ William P. Steinberger

CHOUINARD & WINDERL, P.C.

Attorney for Personal Representative By: Megan S. Winderl BS 8-7, 8-14, 8-21-24.

MNAXLP

LEGAL NOTICE

White Cloud Ridge Major Subdivision Phasing Schedule Change. The preliminary plat of White Cloud Ridge Subdivision was granted condition approval on June 13th, 2024. The preliminary plat presented a phasing schedule that included two phases. Phase 1 included Lots 1-12 and Phase 2 includ-

ed Lots 13-29. The applicant wishes to amend their phasing schedule to move Lots 13 and 14 from Phase 2 into Phase 1. The proposed infrastructure for Phase 1 would serve Lots 13 and 14 which each lot gaining access from Jenne Lane. The proposed phasing schedule will not change the number/ confguration of total lots, roadway layout, water/waste treatment systems, easement provision, the subdivisions designated access or any conditions of approval. The subdivision is located past the intersection of Alyssa Court going eastbound on Jenne Lane coming from Eight Mile Creek Road to the north. The subject property is located in the South ½ of Section 10, Township 10 North, Range 19 West, Prime Meridian Montana, Ravalli County, Montana. The applicant is Orion Ruckle –Developer Representative and Subdivider for Judah Development, LLC and the consultant is Ron Ewart – Planner of Professional Consultants, Inc.

Information describing the proposal is available for inspection at the Planning Department, in the County Administrative Center, 215 S. 4th St., Suite F, Hamilton, MT 59840. Written comments are encouraged to be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the below meeting, and will be forwarded to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC).

The Board of County Commissioners (BCC) will conduct a Public Hearing to review the proposal on September 3rd, 2024 at 1:30 pm, whereas all meetings/hearings are in the Commissioners’ Meeting Room (Third Floor) at the Administrative Center. The public may comment verbally, or in writing, at the meeting. Comments and information submitted at the public meeting/hearing will be considered in the decision on the subdivision. BS 8-14-24.

MNAXLP

REQUEST FOR BIDS

(RFB)

Ravalli County Interior

Remodel of Forest Service

Building located at the Ravalli County Airport Hamilton, Montana

The Board of Ravalli County Commissioners are soliciting bids (RFB) for the following:

1. Demolition of closet walls in the east side of the Dispatch room

Removing two exterior interior closet walls. Work will include removing the two 8’ walls and one 32” interior door. All materials will be removed and disposed of ofsite. Work will also include all incidental patch work with adjacent surfaces, including walls, ceiling and fooring. Painting and fooring to match existing interior colors.

2. Create a new approximate 12’ by 9’ hard-walled ofce in the west side of the Dispatch Room prelease requirements in Section 3 Construction Standards and Shell Components (available for review).

a. Construct two new walls to create an approximate 12’

by 9’ hard-walled ofce. The outside dimensions of the two walls are 12’2” by 9’9”. A new 36” solid core Lockable ABA compliant passage handset with key. Interior door will be installed in the existing wall as access to this new space. The new walls will be insulated for noise reduction according to Lease Clause 3.44 Acoustical requirements (available for review). The new walls will be covered in sheetrock and fnished to match existing wall fnishes in the ofce. Walls will be painted to match existing interior colors.

b. Include: two light fxtures in the new ofce space which need to be separated from the current lighting circuit, and a switch installed adjacent to the new door to control these two fxtures separately.

c. The two existing electrical foor boxes in the space will be removed and the eight electrical outlets associated with those boxes will be to the new walls, spaced as required by codes, with half the outlets facing the new ofce and half facing into the existing space.

d. One new telephone and two new cat6 network cabling back to the network switch will be installed in the new ofce space, location to be agreed to onsite and approved by the Lease Contracting Ofcer. Two new data ports will be installed on each new wall, facing into the existing workspace, locations to be agreed to onsite and approved by Lease Contracting Ofcer.

e. All work will include all incidental patch work with adjacent surfaces, including walls, ceiling and fooring. Work will include all incidental electrical work to accommodate new walls. Match existing ceiling.

An on-site project walk through is scheduled for Monday, August 26, 2024 at 11:00 AM. Meet at 533 Airport Road and see Thomas Burge, Airport Manager.

Sealed Bids must be received by the Ravalli County Clerk & Recorder, 215 S. 4th Street, Suite C, (Second foor) Hamilton, Montana 59840 no later than FRIDAY, August 30, 2024 by 4:00 p.m. Please mark the outside sealed bid envelope “RFB for Airport FS Building Project”.

Bids will then be opened and read aloud in the Ravalli County Commissioners Conference Room at 21 5 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana (Third Floor) on TUESDAY, September 03, 2024, at 9:00 AM.

Possible Bid Award will be made by the Commissioners in the Commissioners Meeting Conference Room at 21 5 S. 4th Street, Hamilton, Montana (Third Floor) on Tuesday, September 10, 2024 at 11:00 AM. PLEASE NOTE: A PERFORMANCE BOND OR A LETTER OF CREDIT MAY BE REQUIRED FOR THIS PROJECT

Ravalli County reserves the right to accept or deny any, part, or all of the bids as submitted.

For a copy of the DRAFT interior remodel specifcations or bid process, contact Chris

Taggart at 406-375-6500 during regular business hours or email: ctaggart@rc.mt.gov.

Chris Taggart Commissioners Administrative Assistant BS 8-14, 8-21-24. MNAXLP

Naomi J. Cheeney CHEENEY LAW, PLLC PO Box 212 Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: (406) 363-9060

Attorney for Personal Representative MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF BEVERLY M. KEARNEY, Deceased.

Case No.: DP-41-2024-82

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 frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to Cynthia M. Roberts, the Personal Representative, return receipt requested, at Cheeney Law, PLLC, PO Box 212, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court. DATED this 29 th day of July 2024. Cynthia M. Roberts, Personal Representative BS 8-14, 8-21, 8-28-24. MNAXLP

NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING – STEVENSVILLE RURAL FIRE DISTRICT

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Stevensville Rural Fire District (S.R.F.D.) Board of Trustees will hold a public

hearing August 21st, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. at 156 Kinsman Drive Stevensville Montana, to allow public comment and review of the S.R.F.D. proposed Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. Any taxpayer or resident may appear at

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