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Covering the Bitterroot Valley – “Where Montana Begins!” – Established 1985 – Locally Owned & Independent
‘The
’ ! l a c o L t a t s e B
Merrill
VO TE !
Find the latest updates and information on the COVID-19 pandemic at www.bitterrootstar.com
for MONTANA
HD 87
Paid for by Merrill for HD87 ~ Democrat ~ PO Box 718, Stevensville, MT 59870 ~ Nancy Neal, Treas.
Volume XXXVI, Number 9
Fire danger!
Hamilton adopts final budget By Michael Howell
The 12 Mile Fire is located in the Lost Horse drainage on the Darby Ranger District. It is currently estimated at 25 acres. Photo credit: Bitterroot National Forest
Fire danger again ‘very high’ Fire danger on the Bitterroot National Forest returned to “Very High” on Monday, after being lowered last week. Continued hot and dry weather is predicted this week along with gusty winds. Extremely low humidity will also create critical fire weather conditions across SW Montana. “Even though we are experiencing cooler nights and mornings, conditions are extremely dry right now across the forest,” said Mark Wilson, Fire Management Officer. “Our overnight relative humidity recoveries are as low as 15% and during the day are dropping to extreme RH levels around 5%. Recent frost has also killed a lot of vegetation adding even more fuel to the already dead, dry fuels. If conditions continue to dry and deteriorate, we may
reach extreme fire danger (highest level) by the end of the week.” Smoke conditions are also making it difficult for fire lookouts
Total mill levies:
The Stevensville Town Council decided last week to reinstate charging late fees in relation to the town’s water and sewer billing and resume shut-offs for nonpayment. Both the late fees and the shut-offs were suspended when the COVID-19 emergency was declared. After some discussion of the pros and cons about the timing, council members first considered delaying the resumption until December 1, billing to give people time to prepare. After further consideration it was decided that any delay could just compound the dilemma. The final motion was to begin with re-instating the late fees and shut-offs starting October 1. Late fees apply to any payment made 60 days from when the bill
Vote for mber Reme in n to tur lot al your b
RON
Total mill levies:
Some notable capital projects included in the 2021 budget include: - $25,000 Library roof replacement, 50% shared with Bitterroot Public Library, - $600,000 Fairgrounds Road + from Stonegate to Kurtz
Park restroom, carryover from prior year, - $150,000 Vester Wilson parking lot, - $45,000 Hieronymus Park parking lot, - $385,000 Big Corral transmission water line, carryover from prior year, - $120,000 Sewer Jet Truck building, carryover from prior year, - $205,000 Water & Sewer SCADA system, in progress from prior year, - $100,000 Sewer New York lift station, - $370,000 Sewer screw pump replacement, carryover from prior year, - $33,000 Topsoil screen, split into five departmental and enterprise funds, - $22,000 for Grizzly Bar Screen, - $8,800 charging station at city hall, all paid by grant or local
See FIRE, page 2
was received. If the bill is not paid in 120 days, shut-off may occur. The council also approved moving forward with a $15,000 upgrade to the Town’s phone system. Mayor Dewey said the town’s phone system was in poor condition and that service has become more complicated as the town’s services are spreading out around the community from the sewer and water plants to the new location of the Police Department. He said by upgrading their system and tying it to the town’s computers and the internet that there would also be related cost savings and it would resolve the problem of having employees use their cell phones for town business by using a special app. The Stevensville Booster Club got permission to paint Yel-
The Hamilton City Council has adopted a budget for the 2020-2021 Fiscal Year that will not impose any increases in property taxes over the previous year, while maintaining tax levels at the level allowed with only a slight adjustment amount that is statutorily provided for. There is newly taxable property that allows for a slight increase of tax revenues. The City is not seeking any rate increases for water and sewer services this fiscal year. Budgeted expenditures for the coming year total $11,349,336 while revenues are forecast to be $ $9,602,718. The mill value, $10,437.55 for 2020-2021 has increased over the $10,261 from the 2019-2020 year. Tax revenues are limited by state statutes and the City is allowed to apply an inflation adjustment, this year it was 1.05% that generated $23,576 additional tax revenue, and there was newly taxable property on the tax rolls that provided an additional $41,108, for a total $64,684 increase. Taxes cannot simply be increased without voter approval.
- $131,000 Wayfinding signage ($75,000 from Tourism grant, $14,000 from AARP grant), -$50,000 for City portion of Skalkaho Park outlay; - $150,000 Claudia Driscoll
The following is a summary of the city’s revenues and expenses in the new budget compared to last year’s budget showing the increases and decreases compared to the previous year:
to see new fires, and aviation resources may be limited due
Stevi to reinstate late fees and shut-offs for utility billing
By Michael Howell
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
www.bitterrootstar.com
lowjackets on the sidewalks on Main Street. Fran Schmitz, who is organizing the event as a fund raiser for the club, said that in the past the Yellowjackets were painted in front of the businesses who donated to the club, but this time they would be painted at regular intervals down the street with no consideration for who donated and who did not. The permission was granted with a provision for “extended maintenance” so that they could be re-painted every year without seeking any further permission. The Council set a time-limit on public comment on nonagenda items of 5 minutes and a time-limit on agenda items of 8 minutes. This will apply to all See STEVI, page 2
See HAMIILTON, page 2
Scarecrow Brewfest will go on By Michael Howell
Although scarecrows will no longer be lining the bike path from Stevensville to the river this fall, they will still be dropping in to attend the second annual Scarecrow Brewfest in downtown Stevensville, thanks to Jim Edwards, owner of Burnt Fork Market. Stevensville’s annual Scarecrow Festival was the brainchild of former resident Gary Knapp and the Stevensville Art and Sculpture Society. It was then adopted by the Stevensville Main Street Association which managed and promoted the event successfully for a number of years. When the Main Street organization dissolved, however, the Scarecrow Festival fell into limbo. Faced with a lack of leadership in maintaining the event, Edwards decided to do what he could to keep the spirit of the event alive by combining it with his annual Brewfest. This year the Scarecrow Brewfest is set to happen once again in the heart of downtown Stevensville. One block of East Third Street from Main to Church will be closed
for the event. The bandstand will be located in the parking lot behind Rocky Mountain Bank and right across the street from the Stevensville Hotel. Music will be provided by the popular band Mudslide Charlie. The festival starts at 3 p.m. and the band will perform from 5 to 8 p.m. on Saturday, October 3rd. According to Edwards, there will be some food trucks parked nearby and, of course, some scarecrows and some fire pits. He said there would be some scarecrows at Burnt Fork Market and at Mission Bistro, too. He said he was encouraging other businesses in town to put scarecrows out as well. The $25 ticket price includes a commemorative glass and drinks and the profits from the event will go to the Stevensville Civic Club, according to Edwards. Tickets may be purchased at the Tin Can, at Burnt Fork Market and at the Pattee Creek Market in Missoula. Edwards said that he felt lucky to have so many local brewers coming to Stevensville to share their passion for what they do. The locals include Bitterroot Brewing,
Higher Ground, Bayern, Kettle House and Draft Works. A couple of out-of-state brewers will also be there, including Ten Barrel and Dogfish Head breweries. Edwards said that one of his favorite outof-state brews comes from the Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Delaware and he’s excited about people getting a chance to taste it. If beer is not your thing, you could try another kind of brew provided by the Black Rifle Coffee Company. Edwards said that there were a few other surprises that he was still working on and waiting for word to come back. He said the venue was good because it gives people a lot of room to spread out for social distancing purposes. “I could have easily let this thing go and not do it, but I just couldn’t let it go,” said Edwards. He said he was extremely disappointed that the community wasn’t pulling together to hold the Scarecrow Festival this year. He said after tying it to his Brewfest last year, he was not going to let it go down on his watch.
MARSHALL Paid for by Ron Marshall for HD 87 . 840 South 1st . Hamilton, MT 59840
See BREWFEST, page 2
HD 87
Page 2 -- Bitterroot Star
Stevi
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Hamilton
suggest having the city attorney review the rule for legality. Mayor Brandon Dewey suggested that the question to Clark was not properly posed. He said what is being considered in the rules is when a council member announces his intention to resign at a certain later date. In that case they are still a member of the council until that date and may participate in a vote on their potential replacement since they have not yet vacated the seat. The council voted unanimously to get an opinion on the rule from the Town’s attorney.
- Public Lands - Clean Water & Air -Productive Farm & Ranch Land
Officer Craig Shepherd, this year’s budget isn’t much different than the prior year’s budget, but there are some different things going on each year. “To the extent of what we budget for, we have the usual operating costs, and then we have projects that can be ongoing from the prior year, or new projects are being initiated. That is what the City does continually,” said Shepherd. He said the amount of work that can be done fully depends upon the resources at hand and what we think will come in, as revenues. “Obtaining new revenues can be a challenge,” he said, We can expect to receive certain kinds and amounts of revenue and sometimes we have to seek other sources, such as grants, or even loans.” He said there is the potential in this coming year to receive up to $750,000 in reimbursement from the CARES Act, that is intended to go towards the City’s future fire hall. “This unexpected revenue will be of a huge benefit as the City determines where the funding sources for this new facility will come from,” said Shepherd. He said the budget, as planned, will allow the City to do further projects, and to provide the level of services that taxpayers have come to expect. “The City is being run responsibly and has a good core of dedicated employees and department heads who work hard to do good work and to help improve the City of Hamilton,” said Shepherd. Full details of the budget are available for viewing on the City’s web site.
CREATE TOGETHER:
Get local!
continued
meetings. The council approved dispersal of state gas tax many from the Bridge and Road Safety Program Funds for fiscal year 2020-2021. Councilor Bob Michalson read a letter from Dan Clark of the Local Government Study Center in response to his inquiry into the council’s rules for replacing an elected official when a seat is vacated. Michalson noted that, “According to Stevensville’s council rules a council member who is vacating his position can sit and vote on his or her predecessor. I cannot find this in state law.” Clark wrote back that, “Either the council seat is vacant, or it is not. If it is vacant then the remaining members of the council vote to fill the vacancy. The outgoing is gone and no longer is a council person nor should have a seat on the council to vote for their predecessor.” He went on to
continued
sources - $35,000 pickup for PW Director, - $23,600 for a Zero-turn mower for Sewer dept. Repair and Maintenance Projects: - $260,000 for East Ravalli Street, - Cherry to NY; chip sealing Baker, Parker, River, Pennsylvania, Adirondac, Geneva, Essex, Ravalli Streets, - $100,000 for sidewalks and ADA corners. The City currently has about 42.5 full-time employees, including: Police --------------17 General ----------- 7.8 Court--------------- 2 Cemetery/Parks--- 2 Planning------------1 Streets---------------2.5 Water----------------4.78 Sewer----------------5.43 According to City Finance
Brewfest continued
“This is a time that we can still pull together, and have events like this and still be safe,” he said. Edwards said that the Scarecrow Festival was a great thing for Stevensville and we should not let it go by the wayside.
HOUSE DISTRICT 87
SUPPORT WHAT SUSTAINS US:
- Healthy Communities - Good Paying Jobs - Access to Quality Education
continued to poor visibility. As of 11 a.m. on Monday, air quality in Hamilton was listed as ‘Unhealthy’. A westerly flow is bringing smoke in from neighboring states and the pattern is expected to continue or worsen, throughout the week. There are currently two active wildfires burning on the forest. The 12 Mile Fire is located in the Lost Horse drainage on the Darby Ranger District. It is currently estimated at 25 acres (including all spot fires) and is burning in extremely steep, inaccessible terrain. Fire growth continues to be from individual tree torching, spotting and rolling debris in the very steep terrain which limits effectiveness of constructed fire lines. Helicopters with water bucket drops are being utilized to check fire spread to the south. The Sweathouse 2 Fire is burning in the Bitterroot Mountains west of Florence. On Monday it was estimated at ¼ acre and had not grown or been visible in several days. The Lake Como Fire was 100% contained last week. Fire managers are asking hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts, to make sure all campfires are completely out prior to leaving. Remember, if it’s too hot to touch, it’s too hot to leave; pour water and add dirt to your campfire until it is cold. One spark is all it takes to start a wildfire. Never leave a campfire unattended. Fall firewood cutters should operate chainsaws equipped with
spark arresters in the cool morning hours and keep a shovel and fire extinguisher nearby. Keep vehicles on established roads and trails and avoid driving over dry grass and brush that could easily be ignited by hot exhaust systems. Pay attention to those items that can cause a spark, such as chains on a trailer. Cigarette butts should never be thrown from vehicle windows and refrain from smoking in wooded, grassy, or brushy areas. Open burning is currently prohibited in Ravalli County. Camp and cooking fires are still allowed. Visit www.firerestrictions.us/mt to learn more about fire restrictions that are in place throughout Montana. When fire danger is “Very High” fires will start from most causes. The fires will spread rapidly and have a quick increase in intensity, right after ignition. Small fires can quickly become large fires and exhibit extreme fire intensity, such as long-distance spotting and fire whirls. These fires can be difficult to control and will often become much larger and longer-lasting fires. To date, there have been 47 wildfires on the forest this summer; 14 human caused and 33 lightning fires. Help do your part to keep our safe places safe by recreating responsibly and preventing wildfires, visit www.BeOutdoorSafe. org to learn more. The public can find further information on smoke including hourly concentrations at www.TodaysAir.mt.gov. For more information about fires in Montana and other fires across the country, visit http://inciweb.nwcg.gov.
Glass recycling event
Start saving glass bottles and food jars! Ravalli County Recycling and Recycling Works MT will sponsor a one-day Container Glass Recycling Event on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the north end of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds (North gate on Old Corvallis Road past fair buildings). $1 per gallon bucket full; $5 for a 5-gallon bucket full. Unbroken, no lids, any color. Types of glass accepted: bottles and jars that previously contained beverages and/or food. CDC guidelines for social distancing, masking, and sanitizing will be followed. More info can be found at RecyclingworksMT.com
For information about advertising in your local paper, call the Bitterroot Star at 777-3928!
VOTE LAURA MERRILL HD 87
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 3
MDT agrees to some changes Veterans monument dedicated in speed limit on Eastside Hwy limit of 60 mph in place. “From a continuity standpoint we are not opposed to a single 60 mph rural speed limit for Secondary 269 outside the transitional segments near communities. With the written support of Ravalli County we would carry a 60 mph speed limit recommendation forward to the Montana Transportation Commission for review and action,” states the report. Secondary 269 was reconstructed under multiple projects, this segment having been last improved in 2012. Roadway typical section is comprised of two 12-foot travel lanes with minimal or no surfaced shoulder area. Design speed is 60 mph. The existing speed limit configuration is a 65 mph rural base line speed limit from Corvallis to Stevensville with reduced 55 mph and 45 mph speed limits in place for the change in operation associated with the outer fringes of Stevensville. MDT also noted a discrepancy in the sign placement between the posted 55 mph speed zone versus the previous Transportation Commission action, implemented in 2005. The adjacent roadside and outlying areas along the study segment are rural small acreage parcels with some residences. There is an increase in both the adjacent and nearby development beginning at the intersection with Higgins Lane and continuing north into Stevensville. There are 17 intersections with local roads providing access to residential subdivisions in the outlying area.
By Michael Howell
In response to concerns expressed by the Ravalli County Commissioners and the Stevensville Rural Fire District concerning traffic speeds on the Eastside Highway (Secondary 269) from Hamilton to Stevensville, especially in the area of Bell Crossing Road, Montana Department of Transportation conducted a speed study and recently released its recommendations. In evaluating the special speed limit configuration south of Stevensville, MDT recommends extending both the 45 mph and 55 mph speed zones “to better align each zone to the outer reaches of the speed profile that defines each zones range of functional operation.” This will move the start of the 45 mph zone south of the intersection with Pine Hollow Road to a more desirable location in advance of the “Curve and Chevron” warning sign design and extend the 55 mph speed zone south to encompass the intersection with Higgins Lane. For the remainder of the study segment included within Ravalli County’s request, the 65 mph speed limit is close to traffic operation. A “No Change” recommendation to perpetuate the 65 mph speed zone is a viable option. “However, our position on the 65 mph speed limit is not unmovable,” it states in the report. “We did observe some variation in the speed profile taking place near intersections, an indicator of their contribution to operational characteristics. Both the crash experience and the enforcement data indicate the potential for multiple vehicle conflicts, separate from the nighttime animal involvement crash trend. Those characteristics distinguish Secondary 269 as having special operational characteristics uncommon to Montana’s overall rural secondary highway system.” The southern most portion of the corridor (Hamilton to Corvallis) has a base line rural speed
Traffic signal control was recently determined to be both warranted and justified to manage the 4-way intersection with Bell Crossing. Average annual daily traffic volume is at its highest on each end of the study segment, ranging between approximately 4,400 at the intersection with North Birch Creek Road and 4,900 north of Bell Crossing. In the central area between Victor Crossing and Bell Crossing the volume drops to 2,400. Crash history was reviewed for a three-year period from June 1, 2017 to May 31, 2020. Sixtyone crashes were reported within the study segment, thirty-one of which involved conflicts with animals (30 wild and one domestic). Almost all of the animal involvement crashes occurred at night. Approximately two-thirds of the remaining crashes were also single vehicle in type. There were five right-angle crashes, three rearend crashes and one sideswipe same-direction crash. Each of the multiple vehicle crashes involved its own set of circumstances with no definable trends pinpointing a correctible condition. During the same period the Montana Highway Patrol reported 65 traffic stops and issued 88 citations. Thirteen of those citations involved speed limit violations. MDT is looking for public comment on the travel plan and is planning to do road rehabilitation from Birch Creek Road north to the vicinity of Pine Hollow Road south of Stevensville.
Follow this Timeline . . . April 2, 2019, Letter to Mayor Dewey from Ross D. Miller, attorney:
NEWS RELEASE U.S. FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICE LEE METCALF NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge, 4567 Wildfowl Lane, Stevensville, MT 59870 Phone 406-777-5552 Fax 406-777-2498
Contact: Tom Reed, 777-5552, 205 August 31, 2020 For Immediate Release Opening Weekend Waterfowl Hunt Blind Drawing Waterfowl hunters interested in participating in the blind drawing for opening waterfowl weekend, October 3 and 4, 2020, at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge are requested to submit an e-mail with their name, ALS number, and list of preferred blind choices to leemetcalf@fws.gov. E-mails must be received by September 25, 2020. One e-mail per licensed hunter. All e-mails received will be randomized and drawn on September 28, 2020. Successful participants will be e-mailed a blind thatcome-first must Waterfowl hunters interare available form on a first Successful participants will besite authorization ested participating in theofblind be ininthe possession the successful applicant while hunting. Non-successful served basis. Applicants may e-mailed a blind site authorization drawing for opening waterfowl list, in order preference, up form that must be in the possesapplicants will not be notified. Up to 3 other hunters may accompany theofsuccessful weekend, October 3 and 4, 2020, sion of the successful applicant to the 39 options as depicted in applicant. The blind options are Saturday morning, October 3,the5:08 am to12:00 pm ; at Lee Metcalf National Wildlife table, below. If drawn, an while hunting. Non-successful Saturday afternoon, October 3, from 12:00 pm to 7:10 pm; and Sunday morning, Refuge are requested to submit applicant’s first available preferapplicants will not be notified. Up October 4, 5:10 am to12:00 afterother which blinds available first come-first an e-mail with their name, ALS pm; enceon willa be selected. The Refuge to three hunters mayare accomnumber, and list of preferred Hunting and Fishing brochure is pany the successful applicant. The served basis. Applicants may list, in order of preference, up to the 39 options as blind choices to leemetcalf@fws. blind options are Saturday mornat: https://www.fws.gov/uploaddepicted in the table, below. If drawn, an applicant’s first available preference will be gov. E-mails must be received by ing, October 3, 5:08 am to12:00 edFiles/LeeMetcalfHuntFishselected.25, The Refuge Huntingpm; andSaturday Fishing brochure is at: Web.pdf. The Montana migratory September 2020. One e-mail afternoon, October https://www.fws.gov/uploadedFiles/LeeMetcalfHuntFishWeb.pdf. The Montana per licensed hunter. All e-mails bird regulations are at http://fwp. 3, from 12:00 pm to 7:10 pm; and received will be randomized and mt.gov/fwpDoc.html?id=96223. Sunday morning, October 4, 5:10 migratory bird regulations are at http://fwp.mt.gov/fwpDoc.html?id=96223.
Metcalf Refuge opening weekend waterfowl hunt blind drawing
drawn on September 28, 2020.
Blind # 1 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 14 15
The Town’s Water Rights Remain a Big Issue; THEY MUST BE RESOLVED!
Stevensville American Legion Fort Owen Post 94 dedicated the new Veterans Tribute Wall on Patriot’s Day, September 11th at Veterans Park. The granite slab, donated by Rock Star Surfaces (owner Jeff Strain pictured) will hold the names of every Stevensville resident who has made the ulitmate sacrifice for our country while on active duty. The dedication followed the annual silent parade of emergency vehicles and 9/11 ceremony. Also dedicated was the Gold Star Memorial, a project of the Stevensville Garden Club, which pays tribute to the families who have lost a loved one in service to our country through the United States Armed Forces (photos on page 5). The Gold Star Memorial is a companion to the Blue Star Memorial which honors the men and women that serve in the United States Armed Forces. The placement of these monuments are part of the American Legion’s larger efforts to renovate Veterans Park which is located at the north end of Main in downtown Stevensville. Cheryl Burgmeier photo.
am to12:00 pm; after which blinds
Saturday (10/3)AM Saturday (10/3)PM Sunday (10/4)AM
“I have been working on Stevensville’s water rights…” “As a next step, we should arrange a meeting with the Missoula office of DNRC to discuss Stevensville’s current water rights situation…”
October 24, 2019, Mayor Dewey’s letter to Hooley brothers regarding the proposed subdivision at the corner of Logan and Middle Burnt Fork:
“A change application will be required to include this development in Stevensville’s place of use, as the parcel currently lies outside of the permitted place of use.” “This would be determined prior to plat approval.”
Feb. 25, 2020 Letter to Mayor Dewey from Attorney Miller:
“This letter will provide a Project Scope for preparing the Applications necessary to authorize these changes in water use.” “As next steps, we should arrange a meeting with the Missoula office of DNRC to discuss the New Global Permit Application and associated Mitigation Change Application for the Twin Creeks Well Field.”
To date, the DNRC meeting has not occurred. WHY NOT? The Town’s water rights issues MUST be resolved before a subdivision proposal comes up for board or council discussion. DEMAND IT!
Watch this space for more info weekly. Paid for by Jim Kalkofen and Valley Neighbors, Stevensville
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Page 4 -- Bitterroot Star
LET’S HELP OUR KIDS! FOOD DRIVE for the KIDS BACKPACK PROGRAM
BUrnt Fork Vet Fall Updates DR. MAGDI NIEDERMEYER
Community Members: we need you to give!
Dr. Magdi (pronounced Maggie) has joined us full-time as a large animal practioner! We will be expanding our large animal services and will be offering after-hours call.
Throughout the month of Sept ending at
STEVI SUPER SATURDAY! OCTOBER 3RD at Eastside ACE
Schedule Herd Preg-Checks sooner than later!
OPEN NORMAL HOURS We ask that you wear a mask to enter the building and are still offering curbside service to those who cannot or wish to not wear a mask. We will continue this protocol for the forseeable future.
WHAT TO DONATE: Cereal • Fruit Cups or Apple Sauce • Juice • Canned Ravioli Mac-n-cheese • Chili • Spaghetti • Cereal bars • Evaporated Milk - is preferred
FOOD CAN BE DROPPED OF AT BITTERROOT STAR, 777-3928 OR KOHL BUILDING LOBBY FOOD DRIVE SPONSORED BY BITTERROOT STAR, PROJECT 59870, AND STEVENSVILLE CIVIC CLUB
Don’t put off your healthcare! We are open for appointments. Telehealth appointments available.Visit with your provider from the comfort of your home. We are practicing social distancing and limiting the number of patients in the waiting area. We are sanitizing our office every 30 minutes. We provide hand sanitizer and a mask to all patients at their appointment.
Schedule an appointment today! 406-541-0032 316 N. 3rd • Hamilton
CALL FOR PRESCRIPTIONS Please call 406-777-3844 for prescription and food refills, we will bring all product out to you! 3682 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville 406-777-3844 www.burntforkvet.com
YES YOU CAN!!! • Become a CNA in 6 weeks • Become an LPN in 2-3 semesters While working part/full time with benefits!
Come Grow With Us!
406-777-5411 • 63 Main Street, Stevensville michael@livingcenter.com
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 5
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Gold Star Memorial
United States Armed Forces. Colleen Hoffman, Stevensville Garden Club President and Western District Director, thanked all the Stevensville and Missoula Garden Club members who were able to attend the 9/11 memorial service and dedications on a beautiful Friday morning. “I hope those that couldn’t attend will be able to visit the park soon to enjoy our Blue and Gold Star Memorials and the American Legion Tribute Wall. Pictured in the group photo are (l-r): Mitzie Barrie, Gary Clark, Annie Bowman, Susan Nelson, Olive Hoffman, Colleen Hoffman, Jim Sadler (President-elect of Montana Federation of Garden Clubs), Beverly Geary, and Alison Leathley.
Back To School Sale The Stevensville Garden Club unveiled the new Gold Star Memorial on Patriot Day at Veterans Park in Stevensville. The Gold Star Memorial pays tribute to the families who have lost a loved one in service to our country through the United States Armed Forces. This is a companion to the Blue Star Memorial at the park which honors all men and women that serve in the
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Opinion
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Bitterroot Star Editorial Board Michael Howell Victoria Howell
Guest Comment
Board of Health affirms support for face coverings
By Ravalli County Board of Health Members: Dr. Michael Turner, Dr. Wayne Chilcote, Katherine Scholl and Roger DeHaan; Ravalli County Interim Health Officer: Tiffany Weber; Ravalli County Public Health Director: Dr. Carol Calderwood
We understand there is much uncertainty with what appears, at times, to be contradictory information. The COVID-19 virus is a new virus so worldwide scientists are discovering new information daily and as this happens information is updated. One particular area of information updating is the use of masks. As with numerous other viruses including the Flu Pandemic of 1918, using masks and face coverings by the population have been an integral part of slowing the spread of a virus and have proven to be beneficial with achieving this goal. We concur with the CDC that indoor use of face coverings and barriers are beneficial in reducing the spread of COVID-19. Indoor use of “face coverings” includes fabric, paper, or disposable face coverings that covers the nose and mouth and which does not have an exhalation valve. Face shields as well as the plexi-glass barriers utilized by some businesses are also acceptable “face coverings “ or barriers.
We share the concern of everyone about the devastating effect this pandemic has had on local schools and businesses and believe the quickest path to economic recovery lies in protecting schools, business owners and employees from the virus. We respectfully encourage everyone to wear a face covering and cooperate with the businesses to achieve the quickest path to economic recovery. We do not believe that civil or criminal penalties are necessary at this time. We know the people of Ravalli County hold true to Montana values , are fiercely independent and possess a desire to improve quality of life.In light of this , we ask the help of all Ravalli County residents to help preserve these values of life, equality and opportunity by respecting your family, friends and neighbors to help slow the spread of this virus by utilizing an appropriate face covering according to current recommendations.
Vote against the recall
the stated brutal reduction percentage, especially in a short term, moved the goalposts and was not fair. I want someone in that important Montana senate seat who will stick up for Montana and have a real chance to break through this damaging partisan divide we are experiencing – that person is Steve Bullock. Cinda Holt Stevensville
We have a good Mayor that a small group of people have been trying to run out the door since the minute he took office. How many mayors have resigned in the past 10-15 years? How many have been harassed to the point that they threw in the towel? Our own Council President has admitted more than once that he has purposely made multiple mayors’ lives miserable. That same Council President has repeatedly been accused of harassing other town employees and making their lives miserable as well. Regarding the Judge’s decision - he is knowledgeable but is still human. This was a tough call. Our Town Attorney reviewed all the facts and believes with his extensive knowledge of the law that Mayor Dewey did not break any laws - there are differing legal opinions regarding this matter. Mayor Dewey had this response: “The administration and I have always acted with the community’s best interests in mind, and the decision to contract with First Call Computer Solutions was no exception. The need for managed IT services was not disputed by either party in this case, which speaks to our intent to provide responsible and efficient everyday services that our residents rely on and can count on us to deliver. The agreement was executed in good faith and based on our interpretation and understanding of the relevant policies. Those understandings and interpretations, coupled with the opinion of the City Attorney, gave us no indication that a violation would occur. According to the judge, we got it wrong this time. Our commitment to the community and to do better has not changed. “Ultimately, it is the voters who will get to decide whether the dedication I have demonstrated
Letters
to this community is enough to forgive an oversight that hinges on a grey-area of law where legal experts have landed on different conclusions.” Sharon Gee Stevensville
Bullock can succeed on both sides of the aisle
I believe Steve Bullock is the man for us. He is not going to answer to party bosses in DC, and he is going to make Washington look a little more like Montana. Gov. Bullock believes in the importance of finding common ground. His leadership on Montana’s healthcare/Medicaid expansion resulted in a Republican carrying the bill. (Don’t forget that Sen. Daines was a full-on opponent of the Affordable Care Act.) The Governor’s work to reduce the impact of “dark money” goes back to the first time he challenged Citizens United when he was our Attorney General. Like most Montanans, I value the Sunshine Law and hate seeing the volume of attack ads saturating, and skewing, our election processes. I personally know many moderate Republicans who feel the same. When Gov. Bullock took office, a balanced budget was the top polling issue for both Republicans and Democrats. He succeeded in achieving that goal, and even topped it with a rainy day fund. Our protection of public lands is central to Montanan’s way of life. In this, the Governor has been an incredible champion. By contrast, Sen. Daines has gone on record in opposition to protecting public lands. In fact, public lands sell-off is in the platform of both the national and state Republican parties. Lastly, Gov. Bullock stood up against President Obama’s clean power plan that had a target goal he felt was not achievable in Montana. From his perspective,
Bitterroot Star
Office: 115 W. 3rd Street, #108 • Stevensville Mailing: P.O. Box 8 • Stevensville MT 59870 Phone: (406) 777-3928 • Fax: (406) 777-4265 Website: www.bitterrootstar.com E-mail: editor@bitterrootstar.com
Publishers - Michael & Victoria Howell Editors - Michael & Victoria Howell Sports Editor - Jean Schurman Advertising Sales Consultants Jean Schurman (239-4354) & Liz Cook (880-2007) Graphic Designer - Deven Monta TheBitterroot Bitterroot Star Starisispublished published weekly weekly at 115 115 W. 3rd 3rd,Street, Suite 108, The Suite 108, Stevensville,Montana. Montana.Subscriptions Subscriptionsare are$40 $50per peryear yearin inRavalli RavalliCounty, Stevensville, County, $60 per out ofand county, per year out of state. $50 per year out year of county, $60and out $70 of state. The Postal Service will no longer forward the Bitterroot Star. Address changes to our mailing list are made once a month and can be made by contacting the Star office at 777-3928.
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Small businesses cannot afford Medicare for All
As we debate how to improve our country’s healthcare system, we must consider how any proposal would affect small businesses and the millions of Americans they employ. As a small business owner, I know that a new government-controlled health insurance system like Medicare for All or the Public Option is absolutely the wrong way to go. Instead, we must build on what works within our current healthcare system while making care more affordable. Experts warn that Medicare for All would increase federal spending by $32 trillion in its first decade alone—an amount that would result in huge tax hikes on hardworking Americans. Even the supposed “moderate” alternative of the public option would result higher costs for taxpayers, according to economists. Middle-class Americans, including small business owners, cannot afford a steep increase in costs, especially in this economy. Not only would the public option or Medicare for All cost us more, research shows that either system would lead to lower-quality care and longer wait times. Small business owners, their employees and all Montanans should have access to affordable, high-quality healthcare. Instead of turning to unaffordable new government-controlled health insurance systems, lawmakers
should protect our employerprovided coverage, build and improve on what is working today, and focus on making coverage and care more affordable. Scott Mendenhall, President, Montana Business Leadership Council Former state legislator and House Majority Leader
Republican problem
What has happened to the local and national Republican Party? As a native Montanan, born into a Republican heritage, I read Terry Nelson’s, Republican County chairman, reservations about mail in elections. He implied conservative voters either wouldn’t or couldn’t find a single polling place and would not vote by mail. What an insulting comment to any voter, but especially to members of his own party. All voters are smarter than this but anybody looking at the current Republican party needs to check their voting assumptions. The present Republican Party is not the fiscally conservative, small government or small business advocate of even 10 years ago. And the local Republican candidates with the exception of Dan Huls and Dave Bedey are ineffective right-wing nuts. Gianforte and Daines are afraid to hold freely accessible town hall meetings or protect our public lands. They are tied to large corporate and global interests while 95% of Montana businesses have less than five employees. Ravalli County voters, please vote with your mind, not with your party. Archie L. Thomas Corvallis
Stand against Trump and Republicans
I urge you to stand up and speak out AGAINST the Trump
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campaign and major components of the Republican party including the Montana Republican State Central Committee which has filed a lawsuit challenging the voting plan for the general election. This is sheer madness and a greedy grab for power which would, in effect, severely limit, deter or inhibit a citizen’s right to vote in a sane and safe way during this pandemic. It is well-researched and proven that voting by mail is safe and secure. Voting by mail makes it possible for persons living in rural areas, the elderly, persons who are ill or disabled, people who work full time and are also parents to vote without risking their lives, their safety or their jobs. The current plan allows Montana counties all-mail elections in November. It is sound and supports all citizens. THE PEOPLE HAVE ALREADY SPOKEN - 46 COUNTIES HAVE SELECTED MAIL-IN OPTIONS. Don’t let the Trump campaign and the Republican party keep Montanans from voting. Sue Kronenberger Helena
Montana swamp
The letter “Response to political parties” was good, as far as it went, but, I must say that from observing the TV ads for candidates, it appears to me that Montana’s politicians are every bit as lying and self serving as any other state’s politicians. Between democracy (mob rule), Democrats/ Socialists/Communists and RINOs (Republicans in name only) and the wonderful concept of compromise (as in compromise one’s principles), we have arrived at a government that is close to cradle to grave socialism. A government that takes money from people who earn it to give it to people who did not earn it. One of the ads criticizes a candidate for opposing medical insurance that excludes pre-existing conditions. One may have to stop and think about that one for a moment. Insurance companies are not charities. Neither should the government indulge in charity. It does it extremely inefficiently and usually counterproductively. Socialism continues, buy more guns. Frank Novotny Victor
We must abate
What have we become and what is manifested in almost these last four years? A people and a nation that is tearing itself apart before its own eyes... We must all realize we must get back our senses, our rule of law, justice and empathy before it is too late. We cannot be led into chaos, our own destructive tendencies and into the abyss. What we have done and how we have been in the past as a nation must abate for this may be our last chance to change for the good of not only our country and its people but for an example to the world that we are wise enough to correct our course getting back on track... Trump is not the disease here. We are, and he has learned how to spread us for his own advantage. Joseph G. Gallagher Jr. Stevensville
Merrill for HD87
Laura Merrill proposes to work on real issues that affect us in Ravalli County: protecting our public lands; how to accommodate the influx of new residents without undermining our farming/ranching economic base; educating our kids for the future they’ll inherit; accelerating high speed internet access across the valley. Her opponent seems to hold the view “Government, keep your hands off my ________.” A very libertarian position that presumes
Letters Policy
Although it is solely at the discretion of the owners/ editors, in the interest of promoting free speech it is the policy of the Bitterroot Star to print all letters as space permits, with very few exceptions. If you don’t see yours, call Victoria at 777-3928.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 7
no real need for government. Truth is, governing is hard work! It is full of tedious, sometimes boring detail that always requires compromise. Mr. Marshall seems ill-suited and completely unprepared for any of that. Laura Merrill is ready to work for us. Vote for her. David Leslie Corvallis
Reject Gianforte
To my fellow hunters and anglers, there are people trying to lock you out of your favorite spots. In November it’s time to vote like your access depends on it. Montana Republicans have nominated the most anti-public lands, anti-conservation slate of candidates in modern Montana history. Led by Greg Gianforte, who sued you and me, the Montana taxpayers, to block our public fishing access on a beloved Montana river. The threat he poses to our public lands cannot be overstated. Make no mistake about it – our fishing and hunting spots are on the ballot. Greg Gianforte, whose running mate, Kristen Juras, is an avowed anti-access attorney, has proven his anti-public lands bonafides time and again. He repeatedly opposed full and permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund. He supports transferring management of federal lands and opposes buying any new land for state parks or fishing access sites. He even authored legislation in Congress to strip protections from nearly 700,000 acres of public lands — without any input from Montanans — a move described by conservation advocates as potentially “the single biggest rollback of protected public lands in Montana history.” The Montanans I hunt and fish with are hard workers who honor their commitments, but not Gianforte. We gave him a job, and he promised to represent us. But when it came time to show up for work, Gianforte broke his promise and skipped more votes than 93% of his colleagues. He even skipped work on days when crucial votes to provide $200 million in funding for state and local water pollution reduction were on the schedule. None of us would get away with breaking promises or skipping out on our job, and neither should he. When Gianforte served on the National Parks, Forests, and Public Lands subcommittee, the committee responsible for overseeing and protecting Montana’s pristine outdoor heritage, he was absent for more than half of the scheduled meetings, leaving the concerns of Montanan out of the conversation. Among the events Gianforte couldn’t be bothered to show up for? Hearings on bills to support the recruitment of recreational hunters and shooters, dedicate more than $1 billion in funding to conserve our wildlife, and protect federal forests and grasslands from the threat of wildfires and other risks. Montana only has one representative in the U.S. House. So when Gianforte decided to skip out on his job in Congress, Montana’s hunters and anglers had one there to stand up for our public lands. These are betrayals that Montanans should never forget. Any sportsman knows that wealthy out-of-staters, like Gianforte’s rich buddies, pose a huge threat to the continued viability of Montana’s incredible outdoor heritage. If we give him a chance, he and Juras will do their bidding by removing dozens of accesses across our state. Your hunting or fishing spot will be treated just like that river access he tried to remove. Public lands are the one place in our lives that equalize us all. Every Montanan can experience world class recreation without the need to be a millionaire or an owner of a private jet. Greg Gianforte can use his fancy plane to fly to big resorts in far off places. He obviously does not care about these lands, but we sure do – I want to make sure that my two boys and all the kids of Montana continue to have the same opporcontinued on next page
Page 8 -- Bitterroot Star
tunities that we all share now. Nothing could be more American than our public lands, and it’s bad enough when scoundrels from other states try to attack them. But we ought to be particularly angry when one of those scoundrels is running to be our Governor. For the sake of all Montanans, and all of those to come after us, we must reject Greg Gianforte this November. Our outdoor heritage is at stake. Ryan Busse Kalispell Busse is past board chair of Montana Conservation Voters, and past North American Board Chair for Backcountry Hunters and Anglers.
Trump’s antiveteran remarks unacceptable
My father was a proud Korean war veteran. He died 2-1/2 years ago and although I miss him every day, I am glad that he doesn’t have to hear President Trump’s cruel and disrespectful comments about American military personnel and veterans. Words such as “losers” and “suckers” and calling wounded and fallen heroes from wars as far back as WWII and up until current troop deployments “not heroes.” My father supported Trump and would be highly angered by such words. These insults are compounded by the fact that Trump not only doesn’t support our troops with due respect, but he hasn’t lifted a finger to deal with the Russians paying bounties for killing brave American service members. This information was in the president’s daily briefs months ago and he has spoken to Putin multiple times since without ever speaking about or demanding a stop to this horror. There is no way that I could vote to re-elect such a person and I am sure that my father – if he was still alive – would not be able to either. Hillery Daily Darby
If it’s not what they say it is, then what is it? I’m sure I’m not the only one wondering what a real pandemic looks like. First off, an explanation of a concept that I use as an important yardstick. Dunbar’s Number is a number proposed in the 60’s by an anthropologist estimating the number of people an individual could cognitively recognize and place them in the social order. In other words, the quantity of persons you could have some level of acquaintance with. Gather those people in your mind as we move on here. The word pandemic is a Greek word, demos = population, pan = of or relating to all. In relation to sickness or medical application there is not a definitive meaning but it generally refers to a sustained transmission from person to person across a wide region of areas and countries across the globe. In a February interview with Dr. Fauci, he said “it really is borderline semantics.” Since we are left with generalities on the grammar, let’s look at what history has labeled pandemic. The Plague of Galen, 2nd century, mortality rates between
Wednesday, September 16, 2020 25-33%. The Black Death, 14th century, mortality rates 25-60%. Small pox, which spanned many centuries, killed 3 out of 10 of its victims with a mortality rate of up to 80% among children. There are many others, but I’ll end this brief grisly history of pandemic with the Spanish Flu (1918-1920) where up to 20% of its victims succumbed to the virus. Interesting side note here, the media censors downplayed the mortality rate in the allied countries in WWI for fear it would damage morale but fully reported deaths in Spain, which had remained neutral, which is how the name came to be… Hmm, media manipulating the story for the benefit of a larger narrative. Yeah, but that was the old days, right? I ask you to picture those 150 people that you know both closely as well as that neighbor that you wave to but have not talked with yet. Picture 30 of them dead (20%), picture 90 (60%) of those faces gone forever. Picture 10 of the children that you know and now erase 8 of them. I thought about apologizing in advance for this but if you have the hubris to advocate shutting down the world and mandating social distancing and dehumanizing us with masks, I think you are grown up enough to do this exercise with me. You know calls to suicide hotlines are up 600%, right? Small businesses are being decimated across the country. This is adult stuff here and if you are not pushing back against the narrative then you are culpable for the results. Unlike Spain, you do not get to be neutral. The CDC says the number infected with SARS-CoV-2 is somewhere between 6 and 24 times the amount of confirmed cases. Using the most current numbers I could find of 6.4 million cases and 188,500 deaths in the US and then multiplying the cases by 6 and 24 respectively that gives us a mortality rate of .005 to .0012. So, go back to the mental line up of your Dunbar number. How many of them are still here for you to hug or wave at? Personally, the engineer I work with got this and said it was the worst 3 weeks of his life so I do have a personal touch-point here but thankfully that is the extent of it. Folks, this is no pandemic. Then that begs the question, if not, then what is it? Why this insistence that it is? Why this non-stop reinforcing of the narrative on mainstream media? I have my ideas and they correlate the level to which we are being manipulated to a solution of their making but that is for another letter. As I said in my last letter, courage is the foundation to all other virtue and there is a serious lack of courage out there right now. I hope this is an en-couragement to people to start questioning this story that is being pushed and then start asking why? Scott Turner Corvallis
Republican voters are being used
In 2013, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal famously warned his fellow Republicans, “We must stop being the stupid party.” Well . . . it was a nice try. Today millions of Republicans still deny that global warming is real and human-induced; millions more think the COVID19 pandemic is nothing worse than the flu and refuse to wear a mask;
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and still more believe the evergrowing list of QAnon conspiracy theories. And, of course, if Donald Trump loses the election, those Republicans will believe his claim that the election was “rigged.” Here in Montana, it’s important to remember that Republican candidates have sold their souls to Donald Trump en mass. That includes Greg Gianforte, Steve Daines, Matt Rosendale, Christi Jacobsen, and others. How did the GOP become the party that ignores science, spurs racial division, disrespects women, sabotages the Post Office, and disregards ethics? Bobby Jindal’s statement provides the answer. Republican leaders crave wealth and power but know their constituents won’t vote for them solely on those issues. Therefore, to get what they want, they must depend on votes from the demographics they can most easily manipulate. Donald Trump discovered that concept years ago. At one time, he was a Democrat, and overall he’s changed his party affiliation five times since 1987. In reality, Trump doesn’t care about Democratic or Republican values. All he cares about is himself. That brings me to the uncomfortable subject of Trump’s Christian followers. While there are many highly intelligent, savvy Christians who are resistant to manipulation, the reason Trump ultimately ended up as a Republican was because he knew he could get the Christians in that party to do his bidding. After all, if such people already believed in a talking snake, getting them to believe in a tweeting despot wouldn’t be a stretch. For Trump, the Bible is merely a prop to hold up for a post-tear-gassing photo op. There’s nothing Christian about the man, and he only tosses his evangelical followers a few political favors to keep them on his side and looking the other way. And remember, all those Montana political candidates who are in lockstep with Trump are just as self-serving as he is. In the Bible, Jesus preached in favor of love and against the rich. What could be more unchristian than an obsession for giving tax breaks to the wealthy and making it easier for greedy corporations to pollute? If Jesus arrived in America today, would attacking health care, robbing Social Security, hobbling the USPS, and promoting guns and racism really be issues he’d support? What about cheating, as the Republican Party has done in Montana with their unscrupulous signature gathering to put the Green Party on the ballot and their suing to stop mail-in voting? And, obviously, the GOP’s prolife stance is quite the opposite of what it pretends to be. After all, what’s prolife about favoring power and profits over protecting Americans from COVID-19 and global warming? If you regularly vote Republican, it’s time to take a deep breath, swallow your pride, and recognize that your party’s candidates are using you. When Donald Trump proclaimed in a February 2016 speech, “I love the poorly educated,” he was merely rephrasing the old line, “There’s a sucker born every minute.” Yes, Trump thinks you’re a sucker. Even though Republican politicians rejected Bobby Jindal’s plea many years ago, this is the year for would-be Republican voters to get smart, stop voting against themselves, and realize that compromising ethics for a few symbolic political favors is not good for America. And the best way to do that is to vote Democratic. Marty Essen Victor
Trump’s policies should earn votes
Some people vote on the likability of a candidate instead of considering their policies. When you vote for your President, I hope you will consider how your candidate has and will change your dayto day- life with his policies. I am voting for President Trump because: Our 401K’s are at record highs; he will continue to require that local governments fund the police and restore
law and order; President Trump provided the greatest amount of funding to the military and signed the VA Choice Act; he increased manufacturing jobs, jobs which Obama-Biden said were dead; unemployment claims hit a 49-year low under Trump’s administration; small business owners and individuals received the biggest tax cut and reform in history; Black, Hispanic , Asian and women unemployment rates were the lowest ever recorded prior to the pandemic; and President Trump is supporting a warpspeed vaccine for COVID-19 and he provided Federal assistance of $300/week to the unemployed while the Democrats were unwilling to compromise. I am giving much more weight to the candidate’s policies vs likability. William Frankenberger Stevensville
Vote for your lives
President Trump misleadingly said Covid-19 was a “hoax,” immediately after doctors briefed him on how serious and deadly the virus would be. Consequently, thousands of people are dead and many people will have lasting health effects. Wildlife biologists misleadingly called severe birth defects “normal variations.” Those same birth defects are still occurring on newborn wildlife after being reported on big game animals by MTFWP biologists in 1996. On human newborns, the same conditions were correctly called birth defects. Billions of individuals of vertebrate species, including human newborns, have died prior to or immediately after being born or have died premature deaths because of those birth defects. Both invertebrates and vertebrates have been declining world wide at about 1.3% per year for the last 50 years. For how many more years will there be life on the planet if we do not stop doing what is killing everything? That includes releasing pesticides, plastics and greenhouse gasses into the Earth’s ecosystems. You do the math. Then vote as if your life and your children’s lives depend on what the people you vote for will do to slow these mass extinctions. Judy Hoy Stevensville
Support for Bullock
If only the Federal “Sunshine Act” applied to political contributions as well as meetings! Unfortunately, it doesn’t. Dark money, those political contributions from undisclosed sources, poses a huge threat to our democracy because when you can’t tell where money is coming from, you have no idea who a candidate is beholden to. Without transparency, the door to corruption is wide open, and we need someone to slam that door shut! I believe that Steve Bullock is the man for the job. Governor Bullock led the fight against Citizens United, and has spent his entire career working
to get dark money out of our elections. He was able to accomplish real reforms here in Montana, and I have complete faith that he will be able to get it done in Washington too. We need to send Governor Bullock to the Senate to keep fighting for transparency in our system and to end the influence of corporate special interests that have paralyzed our nation’s capital and outshouted our voices. Join me in voting for Steve Bullock in November. Paula Freston Victor
Extremism has no place
Pence, Gianforte, Daines and Rosendale all distanced themselves from the shadow, extremist, conspiracy pandering Qanon. Will Manzella do the same? Extremism on any and all sides has no place in America much less in thd Bitterroot Valley where we, as neighbors and friends have much more in common to strive for than we have differences. It is time for us all to denounce extremism whether it be ANTIFA or Qanon. Neither are credible OR defensible. Neither improves the lives of neighbors in the Bitterroot. John Grant Hamilton
Scare-Words
A recent letter in the Star took issue with some earlier letters that have called all Democrats evil -- communists, socialists, “murderers, thieves,” to which apparently some now add pedophiles, satanists, and cannibals. Wow! Such name-calling is not new or surprising, however. Since the Russian Revolution (19171923), if not since the French Revolution (1789), unscrupulous Americans in power have sought to make a boogy-man of anyone whose thoughts or actions seemed to threaten their power and wealth. Used for effect rather than information, such words lose their meaning -- even get hopelessly confused and confusing. After World War II, Americans were encouraged to regard as “communist” or “socialist” anyone who didn’t hate and fear the Soviet Union -- under Russia -- and now Russia seems to practically sponsor the Republican Party, and its head-of-state and ours are best buddies. QAnon apparently thinks the old buzzwords have lost their punch, so they’ve come up with some new ones to apply to nonRepublicans. Again, wow! Are you really going to fall for this stuff? If the current administration could make things better in a second term, why don’t they start now? Apparently, they’d rather spend their time and money trying to sucker you in. For all our sakes, please vote your thinking mind, not your party! Mary Fahnestock-Thomas. Hamilton
Why celebrate labor?
If you get overtime after 8 hours, thank a unionist. If you get paid holidays, thank a unionist. If you get paid sick days, thank a unionist. If you have health insurance, thank a unionist. Even if you’re not in a labor union, you get these benefits because unions fought for and negotiated with management for them. For you. In the late 1800’s you worked 12 hours a day, 5&1/2 or 6 days a week. Sometimes 7 days. Children too. No work, no pay. Time off? Ha! No sick days either - part of the reason disease and ill health were widespread. This continued well into the 1900’s. The years after WWII were boom years and the strength of labor unions gave rise to a true middle class. But more money and better conditions meant a little less profits for the boss. The first union buster was Reagan who fired striking air traffic controllers. The Republican hostilities toward unions continued and reached so bad a point under Speaker Newt Gingrich that the AFL-CIO endorsed the Democrats. Republicans have tried to dress up the fact that they don’t care about workers by saying non-unionized workers are just exercising their “right to work.” But that’s just the shortened form of the real proclamation: “I have the ‘right to work’ you like a slave even if I don’t own your ass.” OK, I made that up. But the sentiment is the same. Maybe think about that on election day.
Mark Van Loon Hamilton
Politicizing elections
After Governor Bullock’s action to allow the counties the decision to hold mail ballot elections, National Republicans and the Montana Republican Party filed a lawsuit to stop voting by mail in Montana. This is total nonsense! As a nursemidwife living in Ravalli County and working in Missoula, I would have missed the opportunity to vote in many elections as I would often be at the hospital for 24 hours or more. It is upsetting to watch Sen. Daines and the Republican Party politicize every aspect of our election. We held a mail ballot election in June and had record voter turnout. I have voted by mail for years and appreciate the convenience. Giving Montana counties the option to hold mail-in ballot elections is safe and smart, especially in the midst of a pandemic. I thought state rights was part of the Republican platform -why does there always seem to be a double standard? To be clear, Bullock made this decision after a bipartisan group of county election officials asked him to do so for the sake of our state’s health and safety -- which I appreciate. Senator Daines is clearly hard pressed to run on his record as evidenced by his blatant and false ads against the governor, which are easily disproved by Bullock’s record! Daines and his allies worship power and money, and we the people suffer the consequences. Senator Daines, DO YOUR JOB and condemn this lawsuit!
Brenda DeGrazio Florence
5th generation Montanan and 4th generation Montana attorney. Serving the Bitterroot in the areas of tax law, business and estate planning.
JOHN MASAR Attorney 406-625-2682 115 W 3rd Street Suite 103 Stevensville jmasar@lionwoodlaw.com www.lionwoodlaw.com Ready to help.
Calendar
Hamilton Senior Center meals
Hamilton Senior Center is preparing meals for take out on the following schedule: Monday, between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. call in to order meals for the week. Thursday, pick up between 12 noon and 1 p.m. For orders and info: 3635181.
AA meetings
Check for local meetings by calling the hotline 1-888-607-2000 or by visiting www.aa-montana. org.
Al-Anon
Stevensville Al-Anon Family Group meets each Thursday at 7:15 p.m. in or near the picnic shelter north of the parking lot at Lewis and Clark Park. Anyone who is affected by the compulsive drinking of a relative or friend is invited. For more information call 239-0878.
Narcotics Anon
Narcotics Anonymous meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Parish Center, 411 S. 5th, Hamilton (north entrance).
Gamblers Anon
Gamblers Anonymous meets Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. at St. Francis Catholic Church, 411 S. 5th Street in Hamilton.
WIC clinics
Ravalli County WIC is a nutrition education program that serves pregnant, post-partum, and breastfeeding women, children from birth to age 5 and women whose pregnancies have ended early. WIC also welcomes dads, grandparents, and foster families. The WIC program is offered In Hamilton Monday through Thursday 8:30-4:30 at 205 Bedford Street, Suite P, District Courthouse Building in Hamilton. The Stevensville clinic is open on Wednesdays at the United Methodist Church, 216 College Street in Stevensville. The Victor Clinic is the second Tuesday of the month at the Victor Nazarene Church. The Darby clinic is open every month on the third Monday of the month at the Darby Library. Income eligibility guidelines: 1 $23,606; 2 - $31,894; 3 - $40,182; 4 - $48,470; 5 - $56,758. For each additional family member, add $8,288. Call 406-802-7180 for more information or see on Facebook; www.facebook.com/ Ravalli-County-WIC.
Family Shelter
The Family Shelter of the Bitterroot is dedicated to helping homeless and needy families in the Bitterroot Valley. If you are interested in helping or need help, call Gary Locke for more information, 239-8833.
Shuttle
The BitterRoot Bus runs a 6:30 a.m. Shuttle to Missoula on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Call the BitterRoot Bus at 363-7484 for more information or to schedule your ride.
Wednesday Farmers Market
A farmers market is held every Wednesday from 4 to 6 p.m. starting June 3rd at 111 s. 4th Street in Hamilton.
Three Mile Coffee Club Three Mile Coffee Club meets every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m.
at 1064 Three Mile Creek Road. Everyone is welcome. Good coffee, conversation and get to know your neighbors. All ages welcome. For information call Colleen at 777-3710.
BitterRodders Car Club
BitterRodders Car Club meets the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. at BJ’s Restaurant, 900 N. 1st in Hamilton. Everyone welcome. For more information call 961-3136.
Story Time
Are you desperately missing your Library Story Times? Fret no more- you can join Annika from North Valley Public Library for Story Time Live Online! on Wednesdays in June at 10:3010:45 a.m. for this North Valley Public Library online program. Come enjoy fun stories, a quick early literacy activity, and a creative craft idea. Visit the website to register for this event. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
WiFi hotspots at library
Do you need internet at your house to look for a job, apply for unemployment or a fishing license, fill out the 2020 Census? North Valley Library now has internet hotspots to check out. A hotspot is a small box that brings a WiFi signal into your home so you can use the internet. Hotspots can be checked out for seven days only. The overdue charge for each day is $1.00. There must be a cell tower within range. Your computer, tablet, or smart phone must be WiFi compatible. Hotspots are filtered for content. Please conserve data usage for the next patron. Director Denise Ard says, “Hotspots are easy to use and we have included simple instructions to help you get connected. We are happy to be able to offer hotspots to our patrons that do not have internet at home.” NVPL can only check out hotspots to its card holders but other libraries will have hotspots as well, thanks to the Montana State Library. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville. For a list of current library services check the website at northvalleylibrary.org.
Child care help available
Are you earning less right now due to reduced work hours? If you were previously over income, you may now qualify for child care assistance through the Best Beginnings Child Care Scholarship. We encourage you to call us today to find out if you are eligible! Eligibility is for 12 months, so if you qualify now, you will be eligible for the whole year, even if your hours increase again. Contact Child Care Resources today to see if you qualify at 406728-6446 or go to childcareresources.org.
Seed donations Wed, September 16 RCEDA
The Ravalli County Economic Development Authority Finance Committee will meet Wednesday, September 16 at 2:15 p.m., followed by a Board meeting at 3 p.m. The meetings will take place at the RCEDA Conference Room located at 274 Old Corvallis Road in Hamilton. Both meetings are open to the public.
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
ST. STEPHENS EPISCOPAL CHURCH 203 Stevensville •• 777-0028 360-2661 203Main MainSt.• Stevensville
Worship at 12:0011p.m. Sunday Worship AM In this Church there shall be no outcasts. In this Church there shall be no outcasts.
Elks Lodge dinners Enjoy food and companionship (while social distancing) at the Elks Lodge located at 203 State Street in downtown Hamilton. No Host Bar opens at 3 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays Food is served at 6 p.m. Wednesday night Dinners are $11.00 for members, $12.00 for guests. Friday Night Pub Night (open until 8 p.m.) Food is $6.00. Call 406 363 3031 for more info. Sept. 16: Wednesday Dinner - Lasagna, Salad, Garlic Bread Sept. 18: Friday Night Pub Night - Franks and Fries Sept. 23: Weds. Dinner Salisbury Steak, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy Sept. 25: Friday Night Pub Night - Wings and Fries Sept 30: Wednesday Dinner - Meatloaf, Scalloped Potatoes, Green Beans, Salad.
eras of American history. He says he learned most of his songs at his mother’s knee and other low joints. If the weather is bad, the event will be held at the North Valley Public Library community room. Register by calling the North Valley Public Library at 777-5061 or on the library’s website at northvalleylibrary.org.
Fri, September 18 Teens, Help Start a Seed Library
Each week on Friday from 4 to 6 p.m., work towards creating a seed library at the North Valley Public Library. There will be projects for everyone; artists can help create signs and displays, organizers can help sort and repackage seeds, and so much more. Have fun while giving back to your community. Masks are required and 6’ physical distancing maintained. Registration required on the Library’s calendar system. Go to www.northvalleylibrary. org and click on the Calendar. Look for the event, Starting a Seed Library. Program runs from Sept 18-December 11, for ages 12-18. North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street Stevensville. For more information visit northvalleylibrary.org.
Pachyderm Club
The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, September 18 at 12 noon at The Frontier Café, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be Dan Happel, radio host, political analyst and speaker. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.
Mon, September 21
Thurs, September 17 Self-employment Great Depression presentation in story and song
“Brother, Can You Spare a Dime? Laughin’ to Keep from Cryin’” will be presented Thursday, September 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Veterans Memorial Park, 100 Main Street, Stevensville with music and storytelling by Montana Humanities Scholar, Bill Rossiter. The Great Depression of the “Dirty Thirties” left Americans with a wicked gallows humor, a sense that if they could keep laughing, they wouldn’t have to start crying. This program shows that spit-in-the-demon’s-eye spirit, not through history and literature, but through folklore and “illiterature.” Americans survived a disaster by using a great national resource: their sense of humor. Montana newspapers from the ’20s tell of bank failures, crop losses, and deserted homesteads— issues not widely reported in the rest of the nation until a decade later. This “bareknuckle” musical report is accompanied by banjo, guitar and autoharp. Participants are encouraged to share recollections, family lore, stories and songs from the Depression. Bring your lawn chair and please register so there is a head count. Bill Rossiter has been playing traditional finger-style guitar, autoharp and old-time “clawhammer” banjo music in bars, concert halls and back rooms for a reeeeally long time. About his singing, reviewers have raved, “Yikes!” as well as “Hmmmm!” and “What the. . . ?” Bill has been a farm laborer, brakeman, Capuchin friar, factory worker, newspaper columnist, carpenter, public relations flack, disk jockey, ghostwriter and bartender. He is a 2015 recipient of the Governor’s Award for Service to the Humanities in Montana. Bill chaired the Humanities Division and taught literature andilliterature (folklore) for 25 years at Flathead Valley Community College and as an adjunct at the University of Montana, retiring in 1999. He currently rambles around Montana, Idaho, Wyoming and Colorado singing songs of the railroad, heroes and outlaws, the Irish immigration, the Western frontier, the Civil War, cowboys and sodbusters, mines and miners, the Great Depression, and other
“Is Self-Employment Right for You?” will be presented on Monday, September 21 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the North Valley Public Library. Transitions in the Time of Pandemic, including Resources Available from the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority (RCEDA). Presenter: John Schneeberger, CPP Economic Development Specialist. Registration required at www.northvalleylibrary.org. The purpose of the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority is to promote, stimulate, develop and advance the general welfare, commerce, economic development and prosperity of our local citizens, Ravalli County, and the State of Montana. A primary goal of the RCEDA is to create the foundation and infrastructure for knowledgebased businesses in the Bitterroot Valley to thrive. They provide cost free business and financial planning and entrepreneurial support services which includes grants, loans, technical expertise, relocation assistance, quality workforce and more.
Sula community yard sale
A community yard sale will be held Friday and Saturday, September 25 and 26 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days at the Sula Clubhouse, 405 East Fork Road, Sula. Multiple sellers of tools, household, exercise, movies, Christmas, Halloween and so much more. Stop by the clubhouse kitchen for lunch while you are shopping. A great time to start your holiday shopping.
Sat, September 26 Wilderness presentation
“Into the Wild with Muir and Pinchot” will be presented on Saturday, September 26 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. This is a Walk & Talk at Stevensville River Park, 100 Stevensville Cutoff Road. Register at www.northvalleylibrary.org for headcount and location updates. Presented by Humanities Montana schol-
ars John Clayton and Marisa Diaz-Waian. How do we relate to nature? Preservation-based philosophies – associated with author and wanderer John Muir – celebrate the spiritual benefits of holistic, unimpaired natural systems. Conservation-based philosophies – associated with US Forest Service founder Gifford Pinchot – highlight management and sustainability of natural resources for all. In 1896, Muir and Pinchot met in what is now Glacier National Park and discussed these philosophies. What happened next changed the course of history. In this program, biographer John Clayton and philosopher Marisa Diaz-Waian co-lead a discussion about the unique lives of Muir and Pinchot and the questions their contrasting philosophies raise about “the wild” and our place in it. Some of the questions to be explored include: • Are people part of nature, or separate (and inferior)? • How do we balance holistic spiritual benefits with specific resource-based ones? • What’s more important, individualism or fairness and sustainability? • Can contrasting philosophies come together for a common good? John Clayton is a nonfiction writer who is particularly drawn to the intersection of history, nature, and culture. His book “Wonderlandscape: Yellowstone National Park and the Evolution of an American Cultural Icon” won the High Plains Book Award. Marisa Diaz-Waian is the founder and director of Merlin CCC, a public philosophy non-profit based out of Helena. A member of the Mellon Philosophy as a Way of Life Network, the 2020 Ethics Initiative Project “Connecting Generations through Ethics,” and the Philosophy Learning & Teaching Organization, she presents and contributes regularly on ways in which philosophy can help to enrich lives and strengthen our communities and environment.
Bitterroot Star -- Page 9 at the north end of the Ravalli County Fairgrounds (North gate on Old Corvallis Road past fair buildings). $1 per gallon bucket full; $5 for a 5-gallon bucket full. Unbroken, no lids, any color. Types of glass accepted: bottles and jars that previously contained beverages and/or food. So start saving those wine bottles and pickle jars. CDC guidelines for social distancing, masking, and sanitizing will be followed. More info can be found at RecyclingworksMT.com
Tuesday, October 6 Small business planning class
“Introduction to Small Business Planning” will be presented on Tuesday, October 6 from 10 a.m. to 12 noon. This free workshop is designed to get you over the hurdle of getting started on the critical ongoing planning that is essential to business success. There will also be a short presentation on how to get some helpful market size information from free government websites. John Schneeberger, RCEDA, will be the presenter. Class will follow the same COVID-19 protocols as the Bitterroot College. All of the courses will be by Virtual Classrooms; these classes are live and interactive. You will need home internet access and a personal computer with camera, microphone and speakers. You can also phone in. Instructions will be sent by email. You may request to attend the classes in person, but masks will be required. To register, contact the Bitterroot College at 375-0100 or go to their website. For questions about the course, contact the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority at 375-9416 or email john@rceda. org.
Thurs, October 8
Mon, September 28 Google class Computer Confidence class
Computer Confidence Business class will be held Monday, September 28 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon at the Bitterroot College. Course is designed to give students the skills required for navigating Windows 10. Material is presented in a friendly and supportive format. Students learn basic computer concepts, develop mouse and keyboard skills, and explore and practice using the Internet and email all within the Windows 10 environment. John Swallow, Bitterroot College Faculty. To register, contact the Bitterroot College at 375-0100 or go to their website. For questions about the course, contact the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority at 375-9416 or email john@rceda.org.
Start saving glass bottles, food jars
“Google My Business” will be presented Thursday, October 8 from 10:30 a.m. to 12 noon. Learn how to optimize your business listing on Google to help your business be noticed. Class covers the importance of business photos, 360° imagery, responding to reviews, viewing insights, how to use the free app, and more. Instructor: Cody Edwards, Touch Point Designs. Participants will follow the same COVID19 protocols as the Bitterroot College. The course will be by Virtual Classrooms; these classes are live and interactive. You will need home internet access and a personal computer with camera, microphone and speakers. You can also phone in. Instructions will be sent by email. You may request to attend the classes in person, but masks will be required. To register, contact the Bitterroot College at 375-0100 or go to their website. For questions about the course, contact the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority at 375-9416 or email john@rceda. org.
Ravalli County Recycling and Recycling Works MT will sponsor a one-day Container Glass Recycling Event on Saturday, October 3 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Professional & Service Directorytt
Sports
Page 10 -- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, September 9, 2020
By Jean Schurman Sports Editor
Hamilton golf invitational held Macee Greenwood of Corvallis is playing her best golf right now according to her coach, Kristy Schlimgen. Schlimgen said Greenwood, a sophomore, is playing with a lot of confidence and hitting the ball well. “She’s about six to seven strokes lower than her average last year.” Greenwood, along with Schlimgen and Luke Schlimgen (Kristy’s son) went to Pinehurst, North Carolina this summer and had the opportunity to play with the best of the best high school golfers. Schlimgen said it was a personal invitation to the top players in each state. Out of 105 golfers, Greenwood placed 18th. Hamilton won the girls tournament held at the Hamilton Golf Course on Saturday. They finished one point ahead of Corvallis with
409. Greenwood led all scorers with an 80. Hamilton’s Aly Rose finished third with 94, and Sami Knapp of Corvallis was fifth with 99. McKinley Murray of Hamilton was sixth with 100. On the boys side of the tournament, Tanner Hanson of Hamilton scored a 72 to take the win. Luke Schlimgen was second with 78 and Max Cianflone was third with 81. Rounding out the top eight scorers were Corvallis’ Mason Anderson with 83; Hamilton’s Cole Dickamore and Jackson Heath, along with Kamas Romney of Frenchtown with 86; and Andrew Ricklefs of Hamilton and Dylan Kominic of Frenchtown with 88. The high school Class A golf season has one more week before divisionals which will be held in Polson, tentatively.
36th Annual Hackers Golf Tournament this Sunday The 36th Annual Hackers Golf Tournament will be held on September 20 at 10am at the Hamilton Golf Course. This is a five person scramble with proceeds going to support the Bitterroot Winter Special Olympics. One of the organizers, Randy Hodgson, said that even though there will be no winter games this year, the fundraiser will go on. This is the only fundraiser for the Winter Special Olympics. “It tells people that even though the games won’t happen this winter, they will happen again,” he said. Some of the funds will go towards the scholarship program which assists individual families
and schools to keep these athletes coming to the winter games. This will give us a year to build this up some more.” There are 26 teams signed up to play on Sunday. Hodgson said he has 20 hole sponsors lined up as well. There will be a betting hole with Stevensville’s own Chris Zier working there. (It’s difficult to tell him no.) Golfers will also have a chance to buy extra mulligans with those proceeds going into the benefit as well. Hodgson said that although the tournament has filled up, there are other ways to donate to the Bitterroot Winter Special Olympics. For more information please call him at 406-360-1584.
Corvallis’ Macee Greenwood gets it done on the course. Jean Schurman photo.
Florence rolls over Anaconda After a disappointing overtime loss last week to Manhattan, the Florence Falcons came to win against Anaconda. Although the first few plays were a little shaky. But then, the nerves wore off and the Falcons began playing their game. The defense kept Anaconda on their own side of the 50 yard line for the entire first half and didn’t allow a single first down by the Copperheads. Junior newcomer, Ethan Abbott, who stand 6’4” and weighs 275 pounds, made a bit impression on the line, chasing down the quarterback several times. This fired up the defense even more. Coach Pat Duchien said the quarterback, Pat Duchien, Jr., had a rough lesson last week but after a couple of plays, setting in and put the ball where he needed to put it. With multiple routes being run by the Falcon offense, the Anaconda defense struggled to contain Jonny Chamberlane. He broke loose with just over four minutes remaining in the first quarter for a 19 yard scoring run. Caden Zaluski kicked the PAT and the Falcons were on the board. Two and a half minutes later, Duchien, Jr. threw to Blake Shoupe from 32 yards out for another score. Zaluski kicked a successful PAT. Zaluski was Duchien Jr’s target early in the
second quarter. He caught a nine yard pass for the six points at 10:17 in the second quarter. Coach Duchien and company caught Anaconda off guard on the ensuing kickoff when Zaluski kicked an onside kick that went just over 10 yards. Zaluski then recovered his own kick. “That is a designed kick we have,” said Coach Duchien. “We have a pretty phenomenal kicker. It’s kind of fun to do some things with him that’s a little bit different.” That possession led to another Falcon score when Chamberlane made a three yard dash into the end zone. However the PAT attempt was no good. But Florence kept the momentum going with a 34 yard pass to Luke Maki from Duchien, Jr. Cadence Waller was Duchien Jr’s target with just under three minutes remaining in the first half. He hit Waller from 11 yards out and with the PAT by Zaluski, the Falcons were up, 41-0, and the clock was running. Anaconda’s Teagan Robbins ran the ensuing kick off back 95 yards for the six points but the kick failed. When Anaconda kicked off after the touchdown, Levi Posey ran it back 90 yards for the final touchdown. Florence won, 48-6. “It’s a pretty big team effort,” said Coach Duchien. “We
Madeline Gilder of Corvallis makes one of her 19 kills against Florence. Jean Schurman photo.
Blue Devils sweep Florence
Preston Smith of Darby evades a slew of Victor Pirates in Saturday’s game. Darby won, 30-22. Jean Schurman photo. had six different guys get touchdowns. We got some of our young guys in there tonight. With 45 kids, that can be tough to do.” Darby defeated Victor in a hard-fought game on Saturday in Darby. Darby came out looking tough and quickly put a touchdown when Preston Smith threw 30 yards to Tanner Davis. Darby also got a safety on Victor before the Pirates settled down and began to play. Victor got on the scoreboard after Roan Jackson got hold of an onside kick by Darby. A couple of plays later and Robert Crosbie raced into the end zone for the score. Jackson took a pass from Carson Varner for the two-point conversion. “We knew it would be rough,” said veteran coach JP McCrossin. “Victor hung right in there and they should be proud of
themselves.” Darby scored again when Davis ran 11 yards for the score. But Victor came back with a 21 yard run by Crosbie and the conversion was good. Victor then recovered a Darby fumble in the Darby end zone. However Smith was not done. He had a nine yard run and a 21 yard run for two more touchdowns. Deric Parks scored the two-point conversion. Darby went on to win, 30-22. “It’s a brand new offense for them,” said McCrossin. “I only got the job like 10 days before the first practice. They are learning my whole new system from scratch. They are doing a good job and I’m proud of them.” Hamilton defeated Stevensville, and Frenchtown defeated Corvallis.
The non conference match between Corvallis and Class B Florence may have only gone three games with Corvallis taking the win, but both teams knew they were in a battle. The match featured many long volleys with the athletes playing tough on both sides of the net. “We always know when we play Florence that it’s going to be a good game,” said Corvallis coach Laurie Jones. “It’s going to be fun. It doesn’t matter that they are (Class) B or out of conference. We just want to play good volleyball.” Corvallis, like Florence graduated a number of seniors who had seen much success and, as Jones said, are not rebuilding, just reloading. Brooklyn Powell stepped into the setting position this year and is slowly finding her rhythm and gaining confidence. Jones said they are tweaking a few things but feels that Powell will get more accurate as the season progresses. Outside hitter Madeline Gilder and middle hitter Jenna Jordan are consistent in their hitting positions. Gilder, in particular, is very strong at the left outside position and, according to Jones, “likes to hit. We tell her
to make the play and don’t over do it.” Corvallis def. Florence 25-21, 25-19, 28-26 Corvallis - Kills 37 (Madeline Gilder19). Blocks 2 (Jenna Jordan 2), Digs 65 (Paige Colaprete 18). Assists 29 (Brooklyn Powell 27). Aces 4 (Gilder 2, Hailey Anderson 2). Florence - Kills 23 (Gracie Houston 6). Blocks 2 (Kasidy Yeoman, Houston/Maddie Potter). Digs 62 (Kolbi Wood 21). Assists 16 (Yeoman 14). Aces 4 (Houston, Mckenzie Little, Yeoman, Jayden Hendrickson) Columbia Falls def. Stevensville 25-18, 25-16, 25-17 Stevensville - Kills 19 (Aliyah Anderson 8), Assists 16 (Maddie Weber 13), Digs 29 (Weber 6), Aces - 4 Columbia Falls - Kills 36, Assists 28, Digs 36, Aces 13, Blocks 1. Florence def. Eureka 25-16, 9-25, 25-19,26-24 Eureka - Kills 24, Digs 38, Aces 6, Blocks 22, Assists 18. Florence - Kills 30 (Kasidy Yeoman 11), Blocks 6 (three with 2), Digs 72 (Kolbi Wood 20), Assists 24 (Jayden Hendrickson 11), Aces 11.
Looking for a new member of the family? Call 363-5311 or visit our website at
www.bitterroothumane.org
Aruba
Come see all the wonderful animals waiting for someone special like you!
Bitter Root Humane Association would like to thank: 3682 Eastside Highway Stevensville, MT Blake Shoupe breaks a tackle by an Anaconda player in Florence’s 48-6 win. Jean Schurman photo.
406-777-3844
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 11
Fine tuning fine leaders A few years ago my dear friend Mas Okui came up from the San Fernando Valley for the expressed purpose of fishing with me. We had a wonderful time on the stream. For me it was a humbling and gratifying experience. For years Mas was the dean of California’s Hot Creek, an eastern Sierra stream where hot springs mix with cold springs and produce hatches near year-
Flyfishing with Chuck Stranahan round in that high desert country where the water temperatures might, on certain fall and spring days, be predictably warmer than the air. The rest of the time, with its weedbeds and tricky current flows, Hot Creek produces an abundance of hatches – it’s always the right temperature to be hatching something - and plenty of rising fish. The trick there is to get a drift. The mixed speed currents play head games with you, and pull your leader off drift just as the fly reaches the fish. It can be madness-inducting at times. Mas’ success on Hot Creek was, or course, the result of insight and his compiled years of experience on the stream. You have to have a tuned-in sense of what’s going on out there to score anywhere, and Mas had that sense about Hot Creek. A big part of his success with small dry flies was his leader setup. Tune your leader to the water Mas devised leaders to match the water type he was fishing. If he had to cast across a ribbon of swift current to park his fly on the soft water on the pother side from a position on the near side of that swift tongue of current, he’d do this: The leader would taper rapidly from the line to a fine strand that would then connect to a heavier section that would ride the swift current while the fine strand would land in a heap – and then straighten as the heavier material was swept downstream. The business end of
that leader would be a tippet that might run several feet in length – whatever it took. It looked strange to see him cast it – but once on the water that leader delivered. The tippet and light butt end would unfurl as the heavy middle floated downstream. While the middle of this rig was drifting downstream at a rapid clip, the light section on Mas’ side of the run was straightening as the slack was pulled downstream, and the fly was getting a prolonged free drift in the slower water where the trout were feeding. Result? Takes and hookups for Mas where early drag was a bugaboo for other anglers. I watched Mas do this on the East Fork when we fished together. My approach to solving the same problem was to flip a hard upstream aerial mend into my line. I could get the line point and leader butt to land well upstream from the mid-section that caught in the power current between me and the fish. We were on mediumsized water that day and I could get away with it. At other times, even the aerial mend needs a little help, so I’ve modified my leader to meet whatever conditions I might be looking at on the run I’m fishing. I’ve stepped up the taper behind the tippet real rapidly to drive the fly through a wind, or I’ve lengthened the butt to extreme lengths to keep the line shadow on the other side of the universe, as far as the trout were concerned. At other times I’ve built extra slack into some portion of my leader, as Mas does regularly to meet the prevailing conditions on Hot Creek. Maxima Green tippet material can be the angler’s best friend when customizing a standard packaged leader. I don’t do that too often these days; the packaged Trout Hunter leaders I use plus rolls of the same tippet material from size 3X on down will usually get the job done. But when I have to lengthen the mid-section, or play with the taper to get the drift I want in a certain run, those spools of Maxima that I use for streamer fishing can come in real handy. Rebuilding a leader to meet the conditions at hand sure beats saying afterward, “I saw this nice trout coming up but I just couldn’t get a drift right. My leader kept pulling the fly off.”
Long, fine tippet in half-steps Another adage here: Where you need to go fine, go long as well. When I’m fishing 5X and finer, I’m usually out at least three
feet – more in the finer diameters as I go down. Late summer and early autumn angling often centers on small flies – Blue-winged Olives in #18 and #20, Trico spinners in #20 and #22; against these small bugs a slender and delicate #14 Mahogany Dun seems huge. Let’s start with the Mahogany Duns. Those delicate and
slender mayflies don’t make much of a footprint, if you will, on the water. Neither do my best patterns for matching them. Sparse imitations on flat water, regardless of hook size, track better on the water if the tippet size is reduced according to the overall impression the fly will make on the water: Sparse fly, fine leader – bushy fly, heavier leader. Ordinarily a 5X tippet will get you by for a #14 fly; for a sparse Mahogany Dun I’ll do much better if I drop to a 5 ½ X tippet. That’s almost a ten percent drop in diameter – about the same percentage as dropping from 2X to 3X. Dropping from 2X to 3X can be significant. Until recently, we didn’t have tippet material in half sizes. Now we do – and the difference between how a sparse #14 fly will track freely on the water attached to a 5 ½ X tippet as opposed to a standard 5X tippet can mean the difference between fish and no fish. Carry that thinking into flies in smaller sizes: run 6 ½ X where 6X doesn’t seem to be getting the number of takes you expect when fishing #18 Bluewinged Olives. And often enough, when I’m reluctant to switch down to 7X for #20 Trico Spinners, 6 ½ X will get me by. I’ll go to 7X when I have to, but only then if I have 6 ½ X aboard. Author and flytyer Chuck Stranahan can be reached at chuck@chuck-stranahan.com or visit his fly shop at 109 E. Main in Hamilton.
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Crossword Puzzle
ACROSS 1. Otherwise 5. What children learn 9. Songs you sing alone 11. Order 12. Rainbow maker 13. Right-winger 14. Yield 15. Morning 17. North northeast 18. Heir to throne 20. Oozy 22. Whiz 23. Length measurement 24. Dab 27. Doctor’s picture 29. Nail filing board 31. Fail to get 32. Review 33. Adam’s garden 34. Welt
DOWN 1. Sports channel 2. Belief 3. Narrow opening 4. Goddess 5. Behind 6. Rodeo bull 7. Chili con __ 8. Eye infection 10. Insincere 16. Softer 18. Private eye 19. New York (abbr.) 20. Young fish 21. Rent 22. Shaft 24. Prefix ten 25. Voiced 26. Kind 28. Japanese money 30. Kitten’s cry © Feature Exchange
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Sept 24-26 • Stevensville 362 Moiese Sept 26-27 • Corvallis Sat Night & Sun Sale! 369 Popham Lane Sept 30-Oct 2 • Hamilton Fairgrounds Oct 1-3 • Missoula Rattlesnake area 3205 Meagher ALL SALES START Day One 5pm-8pm Numbers to keep place in line given at 2pm for Day One sale.
Following Days 9-12
MOVING SALE - 8 AM-4 PM, 9/18 & 9/19, 677 Pine Hollow Rd, Stevensville. 40 years of farm stuff, tools, fencing, harness & buggy single tree, some household and books. Gone is good! Come make offers. COMMUNITY YARD SALE - SULA CLUBHOUSE. Friday, September 25 & Saturday, September 26, 8 AM until 2 PM. SPARKS CHEVROLET BUSINESS LIQUIDATION AUCTION Vintage, Classic & Used Autos, Equipment, Parts. SAT, SEPT 19, 10 A.M. Lewistown, MT. Live & Online Auction. www.ShobeAuction.com (406) 538-5125.
FARM & GARDEN
SUPER SWEET SWEET CORN, cucumbers, beets, carrots, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, zucchini, garlic and honey. Butcher hogs and alfalfa hay. Moeller’s Nursery, 3/4 mile south of Corvallis, Eastside Hwy. Open daily 10-6, 961-3389. WE HAVE DOZENS OF FRESH FARM EGGS from pastured hens, delivered daily to the Bitterroot Star, $4/doz. FRESH BATCH of Severson’s natural grass fed ground beef (1-lb packages, $5/lb). Call 777-3928 for availability or just stop by Bitterroot Star at 115 W. 3rd (blue door).
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HELP WANTED
MONTANA STATE UNIVERSITY POLICE DEPARTMENT seeks highly motivated POST-certified peace officers to join its team in Bozeman. Apply here: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/21635 RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – WEED SCIENCE. Southern Agricultural Research Center (SARC), Montana State University Montana Ag Experiment Station . For complete job announcement and application procedures: https:// jobs.montana.edu/postings/21543. Equal Opportunity Employer, Veterans/Disabled COME JOIN OUR TEAM! We are seeking a temporary Occupational Therapist at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital! POSITIONS HIGHLIGHTS: • Employee-centric: Familyoriented facility with small-town compassion; comparable wages and benefit package • Market Leadership: Continued growth to provide services to the Bitterroot Valley What will you do: • Providing Pediatric Occupational Therapy services in both the outpatient setting as well as in the school system. • This position will require 40 hrs/wk (four 10-hour days) that consist of 1.5 days working in the school and 2.5 days in hospital setting. This position is scheduled to begin November 2, 2020 and will provide needed coverage for approximately 12 weeks and is not eligible for the benefits package. What you will need: • Candidates will be a graduate of an accredited college or university with an approved Masters or Doctoral degree as required by the Montana Board of Occupational Therapy Practice. • Candidates must be certified through the National Board of Certification in Occupational Therapy (NBCOT) and have current licensure to practice in the State of Montana. Current Basic Life Support (BLS) required. To apply, go to www.mdmh. org and complete an online application, or send your resume to humanresources@mdmh.org. For more information, give us a call at 406-375-4407. Marcus Daly
Memorial Hospital is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. HELP WANTED - PERSON FOR HOUSECLEANING. Top pay, excellent conditions, 1 day a week, Hamilton. 206-476-4794. RANCH OPERATIONS EMPLOYEE & FEEDLOT COORDINATOR *Havre, MT* Responsibilities include assistance to the Livestock and Farm Operations Managers, calving coordination, daily animal care, research data collection, and maintenance of facilities and equipment for the beef cattle research program at Northern Agricultural Research Center in Havre, MT. To apply : https://jobs.montana.edu/postings/21571 .For more information call (406) 265-6115.
SERVICES HANDYMAN SERVICES and painting. Senior discounts. 30+ years experience. 406-830-4446.
WANTED Responsible and Married Couple in our 50s seek permission to Hunt Turkeys in the Spring on Private Property. Married 35 years, we are Safe Montana Hunters that respect private property. We call over Decoys, Ethical safe shots only. Please call or text 406-660-0279, thank you for any opportunity.
NOTICES FOUND: Money in Victor. Call 777-5795 to identify.
LEGAL NOTICES
Clerk of District Court Ravalli County District Court 205 Bedford St., Ste. D Hamilton, MT 59840 MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY ROBERT HART, D.O., LAURIE MORGAN, AMY·ODOM, Plaintiffs, vs. ANTHONY KOPKE, JOHN DOES 1-10, ABC CORPORATIONS 1-10, Defendants. Cause No.: DV-20-228/6 Hon. Jennifer B. Lint Dept.No.: 2 SUMMONS BY PUBLICATION FOR ANTHONY KOPKE The State of Montana Sends Greetings to Defendant Anthony Kopke: YOU, A DEFENDANT HEREIN, ADVERTISING ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the First Amended Complaint & Jury Demand in this action, which is filed in the office of the above-named District Court, a copy of which is hereby served upon you; and to file your written
answer and serve a copy thereof upon Plaintiff’s attorney within 21 days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service; and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default, for the relief demanded in the Complaint. GIVEN under my hand this 25th day of August, 2020 at 4:35 p.m. Paige Trautwein, Clerk By: Janenne Sorenson Deputy Clerk of District Ravalli County District Court BS 9-2, 9-9, 9-16-20. MNAXLP Montana 21st Judicial District Court, Ravalli County In the Matter of the Name Change of Elijah Ikaika Kutney, Elijah Ikaika Kutney, Petitioner Cause No. DV-20-334/5 Dept. No.: 2 NOTICE OF HEARING ON NAME CHANGE This is notice that Petitioner has asked the District Court for a change of name from Elijah Ikaika Kutney to Chloe Luna Samson. The hearing will be on October 8, 2020 at 1:30 p.m. The hearing will be at the Courthouse in Ravalli County. Dated: September 1, 2020 /s/ Paige Trautwein, Clerk of District Court. By: Janenne Sorenson, Deputy Clerk of Court. BS 9-9, 9-16, 9-23, 9-30-20. MNAXLP PUBLIC NOTICE The Ravalli County Transportation Committee will meet on the 23rd of September, 2020 at 1:00PM in the Commissioner’s Conference Room at the Administration Building (215 S 4th Street) in Hamilton. The purpose of this meeting will be to approve/make adjustments to school transportation routes and approve any individual transportation contracts for the 2020-21 school year. If you have any questions or comments regarding any school district’s bus routes, please attend the meeting or send them to the Ravalli County Superintendent of Schools, 215 South 4th Street, Hamilton, MT 59840 (email recorder@rc.mt.gov) prior to September 23rd. BS 9-16-20. MNAXLP TRUSTEE SALE NUMBER: MT-7614-002-F NOTICE OF TRUSTEE’S SALE Recorded: 8/21/2020 To Be Sold for cash at Trustee’s Sale on 12/30/2020 at the hour of 11:00 AM, recognized local time, at the main entrance to the Ravalli County Courthouse, 205 Bedford Street, Hamilton, Montana, the following described real property in Ravalli County, Montana, to-wit: A tract of land in the SE ¼ of Section 11, Township 10 North, Range 19 West, P.M.M. Ravalli County, Montana, and being more particularly described as Tract 11-5-B, Certificate of Survey No. 2839. More commonly known as: 1121 Granite Creek Road, Florence, MT 59833 Bianca Kinsey and James Kinsey, as Grantor(s), conveyed said real property to First American, as Trustee, to secure an obligation owed to Washington Mutual Bank, FSB, as Beneficiary, by a Deed of Trust dated 12/8/1997, and recorded on 12/15/1997 under Document No. 428490, Book 171, Page 272, records of Ravalli County, Montana, the beneficial interest is currently held by Personal investment, Inc. Daniel D. Walton, Esq. was named as Successor Trustee by virtue of a Substitution of Trustee dated 6/12/2020 and recorded in the records of Ravalli County, Montana. There has been a default in the performance of said Trust Indenture by failure to pay monthly installments due
on the obligation secured by said Trust Indenture for the months beginning 1/1/2018, said monthly installments being in the amount of $770.86 per month, and which monthly installments would have been applied on the principal and interest due on said obligation and to a reserve account (if any) for payment of taxes, insurance and other charges against the property or loan. As of June 30, 2020, there is due on the obligation a total amount of $151,432.02, which includes the principal sum of $116,043.72 plus accrued interest thereon at the rate of 4.75% per annum from 12/1/2017, totaling $14,218.14, plus late charges totaling $864.00, plus escrow amounts totaling $5,506.62, corporate protective advances of $14,799.55, plus late charges. Interest and other charges continue to accrue. Other expenses to be charged against the proceeds include the trustee’s and attorney’s fees and costs and expenses of sale. The beneficiary has elected to sell the property to satisfy the obligation and has directed the trustee to commence such sale proceedings. The beneficiary declares that the grantor is in default as described above and has directed the Trustee to commence proceedings to sell the property described above at public sale in accordance with the terms and provisions of this notice. The sale is a public sale and any person, including the beneficiary, excepting only the Trustee, may bid at the sale. The bid price will be immediately due upon the closing of the bidding process and will be due in cash or cash equivalents (money orders, certified checks or cashier’s checks) and should be made payable to Rose L. Brand & Associates, P.C. Trust Account. The conveyance will be made by Trustee’s Deed and is made without any representation or warranty, including warranty of title, express or implied, as the sale is made strictly on an as-is, where-is basis, without limitation, the sale is made subject to existing conditions, if any, of lead paint, mold or other environmental health hazards. The grantor, successor in interest to the grantor or any other person having an interest in the aforesaid property, at any time prior to the trustee’s sale, may pay to the beneficiary or the successor in interest to the beneficiary the entire amount then due under the deed of trust and the
obligation secured thereby (including costs and expenses actually incurred and attorney’s fees) other than such portion of the principal as would not then be due had no default occurred and thereby cure the default theretofore existing. The scheduled sale may be postponed by public proclamation up to 15 days for any reason and, in the event of a bankruptcy filing, the sale may be postponed by the trustee for a postponement period not to exceed 30 days for each postponement, and all postponements, in the aggregate, may not exceed 120 days. Sale Information: www.mkconsultantsinc.com/trustees-sales/ Dated this 17 day of August, 2020 /s/ Daniel D. Walton, Esq. Rose L. Brand & Associates PC 7430 Washington Street NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109 Phone: (505) 833-3036 See Page 3 For Notary State of New Mexico ) ss County of Bernalillo) On this 17th day of August 2020, before me the undersigned Notary Public, personally appeared Daniel D. Walton, personally known to me (or proved on the basis of satisfactory evidence) to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he executed the same in his authorized capacity, and that by his signature on the instrument the person, or the entity upon behalf of which the person acted, executed the instrument. Witness my hand and official seal. /s/Amanda Dooley Notary Public My Commission Expires: 1/26/2024 BS 9-9, 9-16, 9-23-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The following is the complete text of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the November 3, 2020 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(1) MCA, by Secretary of State Corey Stapleton. Text underlined below shows text to be added. THE COMPLETE TEXT OF CONSTITUTIONAL INITIATIVE NO. 118 (CI-118) Section 1. Article II, section 14, of the Montana Constitution is amended to read: “Section 14. Adult Rights. A person 18 years of age or older is an adult for all purposes,
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except that the legislature or the people by initiative may establish the legal age for purchasing, consuming, or possessing alcoholic beverages and marijuana.” Ballot Language CONSTITUTIONAL INITIATIVE NO. 118 A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT PROPOSED BY INITIATIVE PETITION Under the Montana Constitution, a person 18 years of age or older is an adult, except that the legislature or the people by initiative may establish the legal age of purchasing, consuming, or possessing alcoholic beverages. CI-118 amends the Montana Constitution to allow the legislature or the people by initiative to establish the legal age for purchasing, consuming, or possessing marijuana. [ ] YES on Constitutional Initiative CI-118 [ ] NO on Constitutional Initiative CI-118 BS 9-16, 9-23, 10-14, 10-21-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The following is the ballot statement of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the November 3, 2020 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(2) MCA, by Secretary of State Corey Stapleton. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 46 AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION PROPOSED BY
THE LEGISLATURE AN ACT SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONTANA AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE XIV, SECTION 9, OF THE MONTANA CONSTITUTION TO REVISE THE METHOD OF QUALIFYING A CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT BY INITIATIVE FOR THE BALLOT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The 2019 Legislature submitted this constitutional amendment for a vote. C-46 modifies the state constitution to specify proposed petitions for constitutional amendments from the people must be signed by at least ten percent of the qualified electors in two-fifths of the legislative districts. It repeals a different standard found to be unconstitutional in 2005. [ ] YES on Constitutional Amendment C-46 [ ] NO on Constitutional Amendment C-46 BS 9-16, 9-23, 10-14, 10-21-20. MNAXLP LEGAL NOTICE The following is the ballot statement of an amendment to the Montana Constitution to be submitted to the voters of the state of Montana at the November 3, 2020 General Election. The text below is being published per the requirement of 13-27-311(2) MCA, by Secretary of State Corey Stapleton. CONSTITUTIONAL AMENDMENT NO. 47 AN AMENDMENT TO THE CONSTITUTION PROPOSED BY THE LEGISLATURE
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AN ACT SUBMITTING TO THE QUALIFIED ELECTORS OF MONTANA AN AMENDMENT TO ARTICLE III, SECTION 4, OF THE MONTANA CONSTITUTION TO REVISE THE METHOD OF QUALIFYING AN INITIATIVE FOR THE BALLOT; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE. The 2019 Legislature submitted this constitutional amendment for a vote. C-47 modifies the state constitution to specify proposed petitions for
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Bitterroot Star -- Page 13
citizen ballot initiatives must be signed by at least five percent of the qualified electors in one-third of the legislative districts. It repeals a different standard found to be unconstitutional in 2005. ( ) YES on Constitutional Amendment C-47 ( ) NO on Constitutional Amendment C-47 BS 9-16, 9-23, 10-14, 10-21-20. MNAXLP
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Page 14-- Bitterroot Star
Obituaries Brad Orcutt King
Brad Orcutt King went to be with his Lord and Savior on September 4, 2020. He died of natural causes at St. Peter’s Hospital in Helena, Montana. Brad was born in Red Lodge on November 24, 1963 to Roger and Carol Orcutt King and moved as a youngster with his older sister and parents to Augusta where he would spend his formative years and always call home. Brad’s wit, sense of humor, love for competition, and sense of service to others took root at an early age as Brad worked the family ranch outside of Gilman and excelled in school, athletics, and FFA. Brad graduated valedictorian from Augusta High School in 1982, the last year that AHS served students from Lincoln, across the Continental Divide. Following graduation, Brad served a year as the 1st Vice President of the Montana FFA Association. He was also named the Star State Farmer of the Montana FFA in 1982. Brad earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees and teaching credential in agriculture education from Montana State University and was set for a professional career in forming young minds, developing student leaders, and growing the next generation of agriculturalists as an ag education teacher and FFA advisor. Brad was hired as the high school ag ed teacher in Stevensville in the fall of 1986. He was charged with revitalizing a program that needed the vim and vigor that only a blonde, curlyhaired ranch kid from the Rocky Mountain Front could offer. Brad quickly integrated into the Stevensville community and the Bitterroot Valley. From developing relationships with local ranchers and business owners, to engaging and helping with civic events like Creamery Picnic, Western Heritage Days, and an epic student-run Halloween haunted house, Brad was an important part of the Stevensville community. At school, Brad was a larger-than-life fixture to his students. No one infused humor in daily lessons better than Brad and no one could tell a just-barelyschool-appropriate joke like Mr. King. Brad lived the FFA motto of “Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, and Living to Serve.” Brad immersed this in his day-to-day teaching, producing around 40 State FFA Degree recipients, a couple dozen American FFA Degree recipients and five state FFA officers. One of Brad’s biggest living legacies is the seven former students who went on to become ag education teachers. Brad’s athleticism as a youth, coupled with his innate talent as a teacher, resulted in his success as a coach on the gridiron, too. Brad thoroughly enjoyed coaching junior high and JV football and developing young men and young minds for the next level of competition.
Kenneth Eugene ‘Gene’ Buroker
Brad was an early adopter of technology and understood personal computers ahead of most educators. Brad took it upon himself to string high-speed internet wires at Stevensville High School long before schools could affordably hire technicians to do this sort of work. Numerous teaching peers counted on Brad to solve their RAM vs ROM problems, fix what ever had gone wrong with their DOS operating system, and get their dot matrix printer back online. He was the school’s IT person before the position existed. In 1998, Brad was accepted in to the doctoral program in agricultural education at the University of Missouri-Columbia. While at Mizzou, Brad taught undergrad courses, mentored future ag education teachers, and conducted research in learning styles and the prediction of academic success. Brad earned his Ph.D. in 2003 and later moved to Minnesota where he was a professor in the Department of Work and Human Resources Education at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. While in Minnesota, Brad married Tracy Ann Lapel on October 15, 2004 in Shakopee, MN. Brad and Tracy were blessed with their adopted son, Gabriel Michael, on January 20, 2006. Brad’s eyes were always full of life, but they really shined brightly when he was asked about Gabriel. Brad was so proud of Gabriel, his accomplishments in school, scouts, church, and the young man he’s becoming. The call of Montana proved to be too great and in October of 2006, Brad, Tracy, and Gabriel left Minnesota when Brad was named the ag education specialist for the state at the Office of Public Instruction in Helena. Brad quickly acclimated to state administrative work, always finding a way to minimize red tape, help new ag education teachers, and guide state funds to worthy and productive projects. Brad led Montana to first-in-the-nation status in adopting rigorous quality program standards for ag education and he formalized a new teacher mentoring program that was quickly replicated in other states. Brad retired from OPI in 2016 and navigated life with a smile, positivity towards a new day, and a love for all things
Harold Leroy Haddock Highland, CA - Harold Leroy Haddock, “Hal,” 86, of Highland, California, died at the Veterans Administration Hospital in Loma Linda, California on September 10, 2020. He was born on November 8, 1933 in Denair, California, to Charles and Opal Haddock. In 1950, during the Korean conflict, Harold enlisted in the U.S. Navy, stationed aboard the U.S.S. Hornet and the U.S.S. Wasp aircraft carriers as a clerk in the ship’s store and sailed around the world. He returned to Stockton, California, where he met and married Beverly Ann Albert on August 17, 1956. Hal started working at National Cash Register in Stockton and Modesto, California, Las Vegas, Nevada, and finally San Bernardino, California, where he ended his career as Service Manager after 40 years. At retirement, Hal and Beverly moved to Corvallis, Montana where they built a beautiful home in the woods. Harold and Beverly were married for 51 years before she passed away in 2008. He later married Karen “Monteene” Hastain in December, 2009. They moved back to Highland, California in 2018.
Harold was preceded in death by his parents, Opal and Charles Haddock, his wife Beverly, his son, Randall, and his brothers, Dwayne (Bertha), Charles, Richard (Shirley), Michael, and Dana Haddock. Harold is survived by his wife, Monteene; his children: Teresa (Mike) Waleszonia, Kathleen (Craig) Miller, Bryan (Jennifer) Haddock; his seven grandchildren: Jennifer (Cesar) Lopez, Keith Waleszonia, Rebekah (Robert) Macleod, Christine (David) Hardt, Nathan (Melanie) Miller, Kyle (Brianne) Haddock, Lauren Haddock; his seven great grandchildren: Noah Lopez, Ava Lopez, Grace Waleszonia, Landen Adachi, Charles Macleod, Eilih Macleod, and Avery Hardt; and his two sisters-in-law, Bertha Haddock and Shirley Haddock. Harold’s love for his family, honesty, and commitment to hard work were well known. But he was best known as a man who had experienced the saving grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, who changed him and gave him the hope of eternal life, which his family knows is just beginning for him. He was an active member
MSU. Brad was bestowed with the Honorary American FFA Degree in 2016. He was a state officer of the Montana Association of Agricultural Educators in the 1990s and was awarded their lifetime achievement award in 2017. Brad’s impact on his students at Stevensville High School can’t be understated and the positive work he did in mentoring and developing future teachers in Missouri and Minnesota has ripples that are still being felt today. Brad’s decade of leadership in ag education at OPI set countless teachers up for career success and provided a foundation in policy and programming that will benefit Montana schools and students for years to come. Brad is survived by his wife Tracy and son Gabriel of Helena, sister Tari (Mike) Mord of Havre, niece Jillian (Donnie Walker) Mord, nephew Troy Mord, and grand-niece Claire Walker. He is also survived by numerous uncles, aunts, and cousins. Brad was preceded in death by his parents Roger in 2014 and Carol in 1997, his grandparents, EH (1994) and Lucile (1997) Orcutt and Verner (1984) and Polly (2003) King, and an uncle, James Orcutt of Conrad. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be directed in Brad’s name either to the Montana State FFA Foundation, 502 S. 19th Ave., Ste 113, Bozeman MT 59718 or Gabriel’s College Fund at P.O. Box 1271, Havre MT 59501, make checks payable to Tari Mord and in the memo line write “Gabriel’s College Fund”. A memorial celebration of his life will be held at a later time. To offer condolences or to share a story about Brad please visit www. helenafunerals.com.
Harold Lee Greer
Florence - Beloved father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Harold Lee Greer, passed away of natural, heart related causes at home on September 10th, 2020. He was born in Kansas City Missouri March 8, 1938 to Harold and Vera (Johnson) Greer. Harold Lee was raised in Kansas City and graduated high school in 1956. After working summer jobs in various family and other west Kansas ranches, he decided to pursue a college degree in Agricultural Engineering at Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas, which he achieved in 1961. He shared a wonderful life partnership of 63 years with Hettie Mae Steinman, whom he married in 1957. Lee began a career in the U.S. Forest Service in 1961, and served for 32 years before retiring. He loved working for the U.S. Forest Service as a Highway Engineer, loved his job, and loved
Kenneth Eugene “Gene” Buroker died at the age of 91 on August 22, 2020 of natural causes, at St. Patrick’s Hospital in Missoula Montana. Gene was well known as the “honorary mayor” of Victor, Montana, where he and his wife, Mavis, owned and operated the Homemakers Center. Gene sold and repaired vacuum cleaners and sewing machines and visited with everyone who routinely stopped by the store, while Mavis taught classes and made fudge, cakes and other goodies. A lifelong outdoorsman, Gene especially enjoyed sharing his love of the wilderness with his family. He and Mavis had two children, Brian and Janice; eight grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren. He would often take them fishing, camping and horseback riding. They all share wonderful memories of this time with him. Gene was rarely seen without his trademark cowboy hat. When referred to as a “cowboy,” however, he would say, “I’m not a cowboy, I’m a horseman.” He helped found the Bitterroot Valley chapter of the Back Country Horsemen and, as two-time president, three-time vice president, and an enthusiastic member, he taught many people how to do pack trips and trail rides. He was awarded the Back Country Horsemen Lifetime Achievement Award for 30 years of dedication and service. Gene was civically involved throughout his life. He helped promote a presidential campaign and participated in political activist groups. He was on the Victor Park Board and was also instrumental in the annual Chief Victor Days celebration. He was designated Parade Marshal one year, and he and Mavis were Victor’s 2006
the people he met and people he worked with. (He was not so fond of meeting bears or rattlesnakes on a trail!) After retirement in the Bitterroot Valley, he enjoyed a post-retirement job at the NAPA in Stevensville for around five years. He supported the National Museum of Forest Service History in Missoula in his spare time. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Hettie, of Flor-
Citizens of the Year. Making Victor the best it could be was very important to Gene. He worked with the highway department to create the beautiful Victor section of highway 93 we see today, with the widened safety medians that he called “get abouts.” This required years of dedication and perseverance. But he had a vision in his mind and would not give up until it was complete. The beauty of this stretch of road is largely because of him. Gene was a natural optimist who was gifted at finding the bright side in hard situations – a skill he learned early on. Born in Waitsburg, Washington on July 13, 1929 to Clarice Grove and Elmer Lewis Buroker, he entered a family dynamic that was often fraught with difficulty, due to his father’s alcoholism. Gene’s mother regularly sent him to the bar to fetch what he could of his father’s paycheck before it was entirely spent. When he was six years old, Dad’s mother fled, leaving him in charge of his two younger siblings with his father mostly absent. Despite his early troubles, Gene wasn’t bitter. He turned his early hardships into life lessons that he passed onto his own
ence; daughters Falena Greer of Florence and Nory Greer-Guitar (Steve) of Elko, Nevada; three grandchildren, and six great grandchildren, and brother, Jerry Greer, of Lone Jack, Missouri. He was preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Vera Greer. Harold Lee was a deeply loving, private and spiritual person, of great integrity and strength. He will be deeply missed. In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held. The family will celebrate his life privately. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.whitesittfuneralhome.com. The family suggests that memorials be made to the National Museum of Forest Service History at forestservicemuseum.org or P.O. Box 2772, Missoula MT 59806.
Need Help? We cover the entire valley! and leader at First Baptist Church of San Bernardino, and later at Cornerstone Bible Church in Hamilton, Montana. His special passion in serving the Lord was promoting and supporting worldwide missions. A graveside service will be held at Corvallis Cemetery on Saturday, September 26 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations in honor of Harold can be made to Cornerstone Bible Church Missions Fund (Harold Haddock Memorial Fund) 280 Fairgrounds Road, Hamilton MT 59840. The service will be conducted by Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville, Montana. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www. whitesittfuneralhome.com. Obituary Information There is no charge for publishing death notices in the Bitterroot Star. The cost for publishing obituaries in the Star is $20 which includes a photo. The best way to submit obituaries and photos is by email to: editor@bitterrootstar.com. For more information contact Victoria at 777-3928.
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children and grandchildren. In his later years, Gene often helped a local homeless man by giving him window washing and other paid work at his store. He told his grandchildren that the man reminded him of his own father. Gene and Mavis were active members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, where Gene served in several teaching and leadership roles. He was a wonderful and engaging storyteller, which helped him bring teachings to life. He always had a strong testimony of the church, however, he also had an affinity for cussing. That was alright because, as he put it, “Hell and damn aren’t swearwords.” No matter what, Gene always took the time to stop and listen to those he met along the way. He was a true friend who cared for those around him. He was known for being warm and accepting, and never speaking ill of others. In his last few days on this earth, Gene often revisited memories of his time in the woods. He described the meditation of fishing in a cool mountain stream, and the graceful swish and flick of the perfect cast. His heart was always in the woods, with his family and his community. We will always remember him. Gene is preceded in death by his wife, Mavis June Pearson Buroker; his parents, Clarice Grove McCauley and Elmer Lewis Buroker; his sisters Diana, Carole Louise, and his brother Bobby. He is survived by his daughter, Janice Buroker Mineer and her husband, Randy; son Brian Buroker and his wife, Tish; eight grandchildren; 16 (soon-to-be 17) great grandchildren; and his sisters Marjorie, Darlene, Sandy and Carol.
Death Notices Donald E. Yager
Hamilton - Donald E. Yager, 68, passed away on Saturday, September 6, 2020, at his home in Hamilton. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brotrhersmortuary. com.
Roxana Thompson
Florence - Roxana J. Thompson, 92, passed away early in the morning, Friday, September 11, 2020, at the St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com.
Gina M. Sanchez
Corvallis - Gina M. Sanchez, 55, passed away in the night, Sunday, September 6, 2020, at the St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at www. brothersmortuary.com.
Marie A. Weiser
Stevensville – Marie A. Weiser, 85, passed away at Village Health Care Center on September 11, 2020. Arrangements are under the care of Cremation and Burial Society of the Rockies.
James G. ‘Jim’ Shockley
Victor - James G. “Jim” Shockley, 76, passed away in the morning, Monday, September 14, 2020, at the family home in Victor. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at the website: www.brothersmortuary. com.
Rosemarie Ghersetti
Hamilton - Rosemarie Ghersetti, 74, passed away in the morning, Monday, September 14, 2020, at the St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. Memories and condolences may be shared with the family at the website: www. brothersmortuary.com.
Town Clerk
Burnt Fork Estates Subdivision
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Waste pesticide disposal Thursday
The Montana Department of Agriculture’s annual Pesticide Disposal Events will be held in several locations across Montana during September. The collection events will be held September 17 in Hamilton. The annual events have collected more than 668,000 pounds of waste pesticides since it began in 1994.
The program was designed to help individuals dispose of any pesticides that are unusable as originally intended and cannot be used for any other purpose. This allows participants to dispose of waste pesticides in an environmentally responsible way and helps protect Montana’s ecosystems and groundwater, as well
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as families, pets, livestock and drinking water. Those interested in having their waste pesticides recycled should visit the website at: https:// agr.mt.gov/Pesticide-Waste-Disposal. There is no charge for the first 200 pounds of material. Amounts over 200 pounds are assessed at $1.00 per pound. A higher fee may apply to pesticides with dioxins or dioxin precursors. The Montana Department of Agriculture’s mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov.
Fax: 406-777-4284 Bitterroot Star -- Page 15
NOTICE OF MEETING & PUBLIC HEARINGS Burnt Fork Estates Subdivision
Greetings!
August 26, 2020
The Town of Stevensville is in receipt of an application for a major subdivision known as Burnt Fork Estates. AugustMeadows 26, 2020 The proposed development is adjacent to and located immediately south of the existing Creekside Greetings! The Town will be hosting a series of meetings to review the application and gather public Subdivision. comment. While the Town is required to hold only one public hearing, we have scheduled three hearings on The Town of Stevensville is in receipt of an application for a major subdivision known as Burnt Fork Estates. separate dates development to ensure everyone an opportunity to comment. been The proposed is adjacenthasto and located immediately south The of themeeting existing schedule Creeksidehas Meadows established follows: Subdivision.as The Town will be hosting a series of meetings to review the application and gather public
D E N O OSTP
comment. While the Town is required to hold only one public hearing, we have scheduled three hearings on separate dates to ensure an opportunity comment. • September 3, 2020everyone @ 7:00pmhas – Planning & ZoningtoBoard MeetingThe meeting schedule has been established as follows: • September 10, 2020 @ 7:00pm – Town Council Public Hearing
• • •• ••
P
September 15, 2020 @ 7:00pm – Town Council Public Hearing September 3, 2020 @ 7:00pm – Planning & Zoning Board Meeting September September17, 10,2020 2020@@7:00pm 7:00pm––Town TownCouncil CouncilPublic PublicHearing Hearing September September24, 15,2020 2020@@7:00pm 7:00pm––Town TownCouncil CouncilMeeting Public Hearing
• September 17, 2020 @ 7:00pm – Town Council Public Hearing Additional• information, including application subdivision, September 24, 2020 @the 7:00pm – Townfor Council Meeting can be found on the Town’s website:
https://www.townofstevensville.com/planning/
Additional information, including the application for subdivision, can be found on the Town’s website: https://www.townofstevensville.com/planning/ Due to the risks associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic, meetings will be held by electronic means, and live-
streamed onTown the Town’s website and Facebook page. Written comments may be mailed to the Clerk The Pump Charitable Foundation is of the Due to the risks associated with the COVID-19 Pandemic, meetings will be held by electronic means, and liveTown of Stevensville, 206 Buck Street, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, or emailed to streamed on the Town’s website and Facebook page. Written comments may be mailed to the Clerk of the publiccomment@townofstevensville.com. Town of Stevensville, 206 Buck Street, P.O. Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870, or emailed to
providing $500,000
publiccomment@townofstevensville.com. for qualified Montana charitable organizations and schools
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Page 16-- Bitterroot Star
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Stevi’s Super Saturday! Wednesday, September 16, 2020
Bitterroot Star -- Page 17
October 3, 2020 at Eastside Ace
4054 Eastside Hwy, Stevensville
Mary Germane Photography 12-2pm FREE Pet Photos! Bring your pet dressed in its Halloween Costume for a free photo session! Stevensville Civic Club/Project 59870 & The Project 59870 & Bitterroot StarBitterroot Star
Food Drive collecting specific items for Kid’s Backpack Program
BIKERS AGAINST BULLIES
Raffle Tickets to Win SUMMIT S-470 LP SS Grill, valued at $2099 (Item # 8292955) DRAWING AT 2PM
Proceeds go to “Bikers Against Bullies” Buddy Bench!
Stevensville Garden Club -host an informative table& corn toss give away prizes 11-2 Stevensville Youth Soccer Hosting a BBQ 11-2
Magnolia Paints Demonstration
Ben Moore Paints rep available to answer questions, demonstration
“Rocky Mountain Twist” Vendor to answer questions about their Montana Made Products (Power Tool Accessories) Give Away’ s every 30 minutes from 11-2PM (Must be present to win!)
Special Sale items all day! Save money, win prizes, support our community!
Always practicing social distancing and safety. masks provided at no cost.
Page 18-- Bitterroot Star
Wednesday, September 16, 2020
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