Bitterroot Star - September 6, 2023

8th annual Fork to Farm Bike Tour scheduled

Bike Walk Bitterroot’s eighth annual Fork to Farm Bike Tour is happening on Sunday, September 17. Registration closes on Tuesday, September 12. Route map, registration, and ride information can be found at www.bikewalkbitterroot.org/forktofarm.

The 38-mile mixed surface (mostly paved) ride will include stops at four Bitterroot farms - Lilly of the Valley Homestead, Verdure Pastures, 7B’s Farmstead, and Aspen Grove Farm. The ride will begin and end at the Western Agriculture Research Center in Corvallis where riders will enjoy a locally sourced dinner provided by Mimi’s Portico; local beer, cider, and House of Ferments kombucha; and live music from Sara Jane and Co.

“Fork to Farm is a great way to explore scenic bike routes in the Bitterroot and connect with local farmers and value-added producers”, said Bike Walk Bitterroot President Amy Fox.

According to Fox, Fork to Farm is a relaxed afair. “It’s not a race, but rather a celebration of local cycling, local food, and local agriculture.

“One of the things I love about Fork to Farm is the community efort that goes into it’s success”, said Fork to Farm organizer Katrina Mendrey.

“Without local partners, Fork to Farm would not happen – the Western Agriculture Research Center for donating their space; Tony Neaves and Annie Creighton for providing mechanic support; and all the farmers, local businesses, and volunteers who donate their time and resources. We’re humbled by the support this community has shown over the years.”

Mendrey says she is particularly excited about this year’s ride. “It’s shaping up to be a whole weekend celebrating agriculture and bikes.” On Saturday, September 16th from 7:00 – 10:00 P.M. the Rocky Mountain Grange #116 will have a harvest party with live music from Appalachian Americana artist Brooks Forsyth. Registered Fork to

Farm riders will receive half of the $10 cover charge. “We’re pumped to partner with the Grange, they’re a great organization, bringing together the ag. community and supporting local non-profits like Bike Walk Bitterroot,” said Mendrey. “They’re sponsoring the Fork to Farm stop at Verdure Pastures and I’m looking forward to see what they’ll be cooking up.”

Typically, Fork to Farm proceeds fund Bike Walk Bitterroot’s eforts to make biking and walking safer and more accessible in the Bitterroot Valley. This year’s ride will have a more focused fund-raising goal in mind – the Robert A Leonardi (RAL) path extension on Golf Course Road. Ravalli County and the Play Like

Robert Foundation were recently awarded a $1.5 million grant for the RAL path extension which will start on Golf Course Road (near the entrance to the existing RAL Trail) and extend to Kurtz Lane and then north to Daly School. As part of the grant award the County and Play Like Robert Foundation still need to raise roughly $300,000 in match and seed funding for path maintenance. Between now and September 18th Bike Walk Bitterroot will match donations to the RAL path extension up to $5,000. Donations can be made at www.playlikerobert.org.

“We [Bike Walk Bitterroot] are happy to partner with the Play Like Robert Foundation to assist in reaching their funding raising goal,” said Fox. “A path along Golf Course Road will greatly improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, particularly for children walking and biking to Daly Elementary”, said Fox. “We hope to exceed the $5,000 mark by the 18th and encourage people to donate to this vital project whether or not they ride in Fork to Farm.” “We’re grateful to Ravalli County and the Play Like Robert Foundation for making this project happen.”

Todd is a 7 month old Husky/Plott hound mix. He’s very sweet and loves to play with other dogs. He loves frisbee, hiking and tug. We don’t know how he’ll be around cats and he’s never been around children so we don’t know how he’ll be with them yet.

Forest seeks comments on fuel break projects

The Bitterroot National Forest is inviting the public to review and make comments on four proposed fuel break projects aimed at protecting communities and critical infrastructure from catastrophic wildfires. The Rye Creek, Sleeping Child, Soda Baker, and Sula projects are located on the Darby-Sula and West Fork Ranger Districts.

All four projects are mainly within the Wildland Urban Interface, in some of the most at risk firesheds in the nation. The Montana Forest Action Plan has identified these areas as having high wildfire risk to communities and infrastructure and significant forest health concerns. Ravalli County has the highest risk to structures from wildfire of any county in Montana.

The projects are utilizing Sec

tion 40806 in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to reduce hazardous fuels in strategic locations. The law authorizes the construction of fuel breaks adjacent to existing features including roads, trails, powerlines,

or similar infrastructure.

Shaded fuel breaks are linear control features that have been treated to moderate fire spread and intensity. Treatments in the project areas would consist of thinning the understory along roads to reduce ladder fuels and tree densities while leaving mature overstory intact. Mechanical, hand thinning, and prescribed burning may be used to reduce the vegetative fuel loads in the identified locations. Each fuel break may be up to 3,000 acres in size with a maximum width of 1,000 feet. These treatments are intended to facilitate fire remaining near the ground and not readily spread into tree crowns if a wildfire was to occur. Fuel breaks also provide strategic access and defensible features for fire managers to utilize during a wildfire response while also reducing risk to firefighters on the ground. Proactive fuels management, such as implementing these fuel breaks, increases wild - land firefighters’ chances of success in controlling a wildfire that poses a threat to communities, private lands, and other values at risk.

MUSIC: Local ensemble tries a unique approach

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musicians. “We are all local professional musicians,” said Joel about the ensemble.

The quartet is composed of a double bass, a piano and two violins. One of the violinists also provides a soprano voice. The ensemble is also something that the couple hopes to use to build upon “this whole aspect of coming together for music,” as Joel explained. They wanted a way to engage with the audience more intimately, with smaller gatherings and by speaking on the history and importance of each piece. They also plan to interact with the audience before and after each performance. The group wants to be able to speak about their drive as musicians, and share what they do and why they love it.

Joel has a PhD in Historical Musicology and is principal bassist with the Symphony and String Orchestra of the Rockies, in Missoula. Rachel has performed with several symphonies and was concertmaster for John Mauceri’s American premiere of Korngold’s “Much Ado About Nothing,” which received an Emmy.

The couple brought on Mac Merchant, who is a piano accompanist for students at the University in Missoula. Joel and Rachel both explained that he was the obvious choice to take on as the pianist. According to Merchant, it felt like a promotion, in a way. He explained that he loves working with the students, but this is something much more. “They are great, but this is a whole other caliber,” said Merchant.

The other musician who plays both violin and sings is Tasha Athman Fain. Fain plays with the Schnackels in the Missoula Symphony, and both Fain and Rachel are violin teachers in the valley.

“I’m excited because I haven’t done a lot of chamber music,” said Fain. “So this is a great way to broaden my horizons!”

Their performances as the Regal Ensemble are a form of chamber

music, which is more intimate than orchestral music. Instead of having sections of instruments, each musician may be playing the parts of several instruments. Their performances are also for smaller crowds, usually in personal homes or smaller venues.

“Chamber is relational, both with the musicians and their patrons,” said Rachel. This style helps the musicians “communicate with the audience, both vocally and musically.”

“I think this area is ready for this and needs this,” said Joel. The group all have a passion for their music and for bringing it to people. This year is the Regal Ensemble’s inaugural frst season, and they have already been performing recitals and public concerts. Upcoming will be their season fnale. During this season they have been performing works by J.S. Bach, Mozart, Richard Strauss and Florence Price. Of all their pieces this season, the one they are most proud of is their full version, with all 14 movements, of “The Carnival of the Animals,” by Camille Saint-Saens. During the performance, each instrument takes on the role of an animal at the carnival and each instrument has a solo.

“It’s really quite spectacular,” said Joel. According to him, this particular piece really lends itself to this form of collaborative chamber music and this ensemble. Their skills will be put to the test as, contrasting with a quartet, the carnival is generally performed with nine people and two pianos.

Interested persons can enjoy the performance at the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center in Victor on Saturday, September 9 at 8 p.m.

Tickets are $23 in advance, and $25 at the door. Student tickets are $5. Tickets and more information can be found at www.regalensemble.com. Additional information on the ensemble can also be found on their facebook page, Regal Ensemble, or by calling (406) 375-5001. The Regal Ensemble plans to have up to four concerts a year for the Bitterroot Valley.

Public comments specific to these projects are valuable in helping the Forest Service identify concerns and provide feedback. Comments are due by September 14th 2023.

To provide electronic comments, please navigate to the individual projects on the Bitterroot National Forest’s Projects page at https://

www.fs.usda.gov/ projects/bitterroot/landmanagement/projects. After selecting a project, navigate to the “Get Connected” menu on the right side of the page, which provides an option to comment as well as subscribe to email updates.

Comments should include your name, address, telephone number and (if applicable) the name of the organization you represent. If you wish to mail written comments, please address them to: Bitterroot National Forest, Attn: Emmet Pruss – Fuel Break Projects, 1801 N. First Street, Hamilton, MT 59840.

Comments may also be hand delivered weekdays 8:00 am -4:30 pm at the Darby-Sula and West Fork District offices.

For more information or questions concerning the projects, please contact Abbie Jossie, Darby-Sula District Ranger at (406) 821-3913 or Dan Pliley, West Fork District Ranger at (406) 821-3269.

Te Bitterroot Valley Welcomes REGAL ENSEMBLE

A new professional chamber music group, in its inaugural frst season, performing Salon Recitals and Public Concerts. Music by J. S. Bach, Mozart, Saint-Saens, Richard Strauss, and Florence Price.

It’s not too late to attend this week’s Salon Recitals: Available Wednesday Sept 6; Tursday Sept 7; or Friday Sept 8 at 8PM. Visit www.RegalEnsemble.com or call 406-375-5001.

Share the Experience at the Mary Stuart Rogers Performing Arts Center Victor, MT. Saturday, September 9th at 8pm. Tickets $23 in advance or $25 at the door; students $5. Visit www.RegalEnsemble.com or call 406-375-5001.

BUSINESSES: Three Bitterroot businesses receive funding

his business shop. The project will help this small business save more than $2,900 annually in energy costs and also save 25,226 kilowatt (kW) annually in energy use, which is enough electricity to power two homes.

• $17,213 in Billings – This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 12.3 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system. Phillips Excavation LLC, in Billings, Montana, will use this system for its company’s shop operations. This project will result in a $1,498 annual cost savings and will conserve approximately 14,020 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year, which is enough electricity to power one home.

• $79,396 in Bozeman

– This Rural Development investment will be to assist Wild Peach LLC, in Bozeman, Montana purchase and install a 56.295 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system for its multi-use building. This project will generate an annual cost savings of more than $6,200 for this rural small business and conserve more than 69,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of power generation each year, enough electricity to power six homes.

• $52,764 in Bozeman

– This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 40.88 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system for WOJJ Properties LLC, a pediatric dentistry practice in Bozeman, Montana. This project will save $3,405 annually in energy costs and save 47,404 kilowatt hours (kWh) annually in energy use, enough electricity to power four homes.

• $32,940 in Bozeman

– This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 19.04

kW solar photovoltaic system for a preschool and daycare facility. Because of this project, Bozeman Montessori will save more than $3,100 in annual energy costs and more than 21,000 kWh in energy savings, enough electricity to power two homes.

• $25,444 in Bozeman

– This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 26.19 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Alpacas of Montana, a rural small-business alpaca farm near Bozeman, Montana. This project annually will help save more than $3,700 and 32,000 Wh, enough energy to power three homes.

• $13,357 in Bozeman

– This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 12.0 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system for Courtney King, a rental/leasing business in Bozeman, Montana. The project will help this small business with an annual cost savings of more than $2,200 and an annual energy savings of 16,221 kilowatt hours (kWh), which is enough electricity to power one home.

• $12,043 in Bozeman

– This Rural Development investment will be used to assist Petal Farm LLC purchase and install a 12.045 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system. Petal Farm is a fower business in Bozeman, Montana. This project will save this small business more than $1,300 annually in energy costs and more than 14,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) annually in energy consumption, enough energy to power one home. This project will realize $1,385 per year in savings and will save 14,525 kW per year, which is enough electricity to power one home.

• $11,502 in Broadview

– This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 6.4 kilowatt (kW) Solar Array System. Mikel Erickson operates a family-owned farming operation in Broadview, Montana. The project will generate approximately $1,000 in annual cost savings and will replace/save 7,689 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity per year.

• $31,816 in Charlo – This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 40 kilowatt (kW) photovoltaic system. The system will be net metered to two meters on site with each being fed 20 kW, staying within the required kilowatt cap for Mission Valley Power. The system will replace 100 percent of the energy used, replacing more than 6,400 kilowatt hours (kWh), and saving Montana Solar of Charlo, Montana, more than $2,500 annually.

• $79,999 in Choteau

– This Rural Development investment will be used to install energy efcient doors, windows, lighting, insulation, and a new boiler system at the Teton Peaks Assisted Living Facility, in Choteau, Montana. The investment at Teton Peaks, owned by Highmark Properties LLC., also in Choteau, will improve living conditions of the residents, generate an annual energy cost savings of more than $9,100. Highmark Properties LLC received a previous REAP grant of $26,021 in 2019.

• $5,419 in Columbia Falls – This Rural Development investment will be used to help Moss Mountain Inn in northwestern Columbia Falls, Montana, (Flathead County) install energy efcient blinds on the ceiling and windows of an allglass sunroom. This local bed and breakfast is a rural small business in operation since 2018, and the project is expected to generate more than 55,000 BTU in energy savings and return an annual cost savings of more than $2,300.

• $31,400 in Glasgow – This Rural Development investment will be used by Matthew Poole, owner of a small commercial rental business in Glasgow, Montana, to purchase and install insulation in the roof of his property. These energy efciency improvements to this rural small business will save approximately $1,600 in annual energy costs and decrease energy use by more than 22,000 kilowatt hours (kWh).

• $30,895

in Glasgow – This Rural Development investment will be used to install exterior doors, energy efcient windows, and HVAC units in a small 13-room rural motel operated by Pankratz Properties in downtown Glasgow, Montana. These improvements annually are expected to save more than $4,700 in energy costs.

• $12,312 in Glasgow – This Rural Development investment will be used to assist Sather Ranch in Glasgow, Montana, to complete energy efciency upgrades with spray foam insulation in an agriculture building on the ranch. This family-owned farming operation also uses earthworms in a vermicasting process to break down organic waste. The project will generate an annual energy savings of approximately $3,500 for the Sather family’s rural small business.

• $24,813 in Havre – This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a ground-mounted 15.13 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Vilicus Farms, a family-owned farm operation in Havre, Montana. The project annually will save the business more than $3,800 and generate 20,156 kWh, enough energy to power two homes.

• $54,574 in Helena – This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 74.76 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system for Beck Real Estate Properties LLC in Helena, Montana. This project annually will save more than $11,000 and 96,000 kWh, enough energy to power nine homes.

• $8,980 in Hilger – This Rural Development investment will be used by Sarah Lee Leonard to purchase and install a 5.34 kilowatt (kW) ground mounted solar photovoltaic system for an agricultural business near Hilger, Montana. This project will ofset energy costs, generate an annual cost savings of more than $3,100, and replace 27 percent of the business’ energy needs, saving enough energy to power one home.

• $29,950 in Judith Gap

– This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 28.16 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system at the El Peterson Ranch in Judith Gap, Montana. The equipment will help ofset loads generated by the ranch, create an annual cost savings of more than $5,000, and conserve 34,733 kilowatt hours (kW), enough electricity to power three small homes.

• $12,152 in Lewistown

– This Rural Development investment will be used to assist Skylark PLLC, in Lewistown, Montana, install a 11.0 kilowatt (kW) ground mounted solar photovoltaic system that will be used for 100 percent of the business’ energy consumption. This rural small business, which creates custom computer software and programs, will see a total power generation of 14,112 kilowatt hours (kWh), which is enough to power one home and will save the business $1,259.00 annually.

• $38,477 in Livingston – This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a 29.92 kW solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Black Dog Farm II Inc. in Livingston, Montana. This

small, rural, family-owned farm produces poultry, eggs, and pasture-raised pork products for sale to local markets. The project annually will save more than $4,200 and 39,000 kWh, enough energy to power four homes.

• $49,218 in Ryegate – This Rural Development investment will be used to install a 50 kW ground mount solar photovoltaic array for the Ryegate Bar & Café, in Ryegate, Montana. This project will help this rural small business save more than $10,000 in annual energy costs and replace more than 77,000 kWh in annual energy consumption.

• $74,275 in Savage – This Rural Development investment will be used to bring electric transmission lines through a local rural electric cooperative and convert diesel pumps to electric at Jonald Jorgensen’s farm, a small, family-owned operation in Savage, Montana. This project will generate an annual cost savings of approximately $73,000.

• $45,711 in Shawmut –This Rural Development investment will be used to install two 22.8 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic panels on a farm in Shawmut, Montana, owned by the Dan DeBuf family. This small operation, which raises diferent varieties of grain, grass, and forage hay, will see an annual cost savings of nearly $6,000 and an energy savings of more than 82,000 kilowatt hours (kWh).

• $31,948 in Stanford – This Rural Development investment will be used to make energy efciency improvements to the building owned by Danielle Weaver, owner/operator of Wolves Den Pharmacy in Stanford, Montana. These improvements will save $4,925 in annual energy costs, or 51 percent of what she is currently paying. The electricity saved will be enough to power one home for a year.

• $211,521 in Twin Bridges – This Rural Development investment will be used to install three solar photovoltaic (PV) systems to support pivot operations at rural small business SRI River Holdings in Twin Bridges, Montana. This project annually will save more than $17,000 and generate 141 kWh.

• $19,810 in Valier – This Rural Development investment will be used to purchase and install a ground mount 13.35 kilowatt (kW) solar system at the Mountain View Farm, a family-owned agriculture production business in Valier, Montana. The project will generate an annual energy cost savings of more than $7,300 and conserve 29,435 kilowatt hours (kWh), which is enough electricity to power two homes.

• $19,473 in Winston –This Rural Development investment will be used to help CX Ranch LLP, in Winston, Montana, install a renewable energy system and make energy-efciency improvements to its operations. Funds will be used to purchase and install a 16.8 kilowatt (kW) solar photovoltaic system for irrigation. This project will create approximately $2,700 in annual cost savings and will save 23,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) per year, which is enough electricity to power two homes.

Mayor and sherif cold-dunked

by Nathan Boddy

Hamilton Mayor, Dominic Farrenkopf must have climbed out of the icy waters of his dunk tank hundreds of times during the Ravalli County Fair. Situated along the main thoroughfare, his sign declared, “Dunk the Mayor and his big mouth,” and ofered chances to put him under: $2 for 1 ball and $5 for 3. However, For every ball hurled toward the target, money was being raised for one of the area’s important institutions.

Farrenkopf explained that typically, a nonproft approaches him to inquire about raising money. “It’s kind of a frst come, frst served kind of thing,” he said.

At this year’s fair, Farrenkopf took the fall for Emma’s House, SAFE, the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, Special Olympics, the Bitterroot Humane Association and the Stevensville Playhouse. Other than the operational costs associated with the booth, maintenance and fair entry for his helpers, Farrenkopf donates all of the proceeds he raises to the entities he pairs up with. During their two hour

periods, the nonprofts are able to distribute their own information and get good exposure while watching Farrenkopf make a splash.

“I’m getting a little cold here, as you can tell,” said Farrenkopf while preparing for his next two hour session in support of the Bitterroot Special Olympics. “I used to do three days,” he added, “but the cold water for six hours a day… the human body isn’t meant for that.”

Farrenkopft purchased the dunk tank with his own money after having rented one and liking the process. While the water can get chilly, he says that he still enjoys helping area nonprofts in their fundraising eforts.

“I’ve got to fulfll what the people expect,” he said, “It’s more fun than not fun.”

Despite the obvious chill of the

tank, which Farrenkopf points out has to be continually reflled from a nearby hose, the mayor still does his best to fre up the will of those who would see him swim. Heckling passersby, Farrenkopf says that he is not above targeting those who can be persuaded to target him.

“If you’re a teenage boy or a grown man that’s not a senior citizen, I will heckle you to the point that you get mad,” he said with a grin. And while the mayor did indeed pester a group of Corvallis students, he pointed out that little kids, “pretty much get a guaranteed dunk.”

Although Farrenkopf has proven his deft for the fall, he was willing to share the position with Sherif Steve Holton, who was scheduled to take his own seat above the water on Saturday. Holton’s department has been participating in the Man Up Crusade since 2018, an efort to bring awareness to domestic violence. The program began in Idaho after Canyon County Sherif Kieran Donahue had investigated a particularly violent domestic homicide. Donahue and his wife Jeanie decided to tie an awareness program

to the western way of life by bringing it to the rodeo.

“We were the frst rodeo in Montana to bring on the Man Up Crusade,” says Sherif Holton. “Since then two more counties have come on board as well.”

Holton described the process for raising money for SAFE in the Bitterroot through the “Purple Night” at the Rocking RC Rodeo at the fair. Along with the help of sponsors, specifc broncos and bulls are powdered with purple coloring before the ride.

“If the cowboy makes his ride, our crusade will write him a $200 check and he gets a belt buckle. If he doesn’t make it, all the money goes to SAFE.”

While much of the Man Up Crusade is focused around the rodeo, Holton’s own ride at the dunk tank Saturday was programmed for raising money for SAFE as well. When asked if his approach to coaxing ball throwers would use as much taunting lip as Mayor Farrenkopf liked to use, Holton responded with a smile.

“I’m going to give it a shot, but nobody can out-lip the mayor. You can quote me on that.”

Two Corvallis students, heckled to the point of desperation, unload on the soon-to-be-wet, Mayor Farrenkopf. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

Ravalli County Sherif Steve Holton discusses his department’s participation in the Man Up Crusade and his own turn at the infamous dunk tank. Photo by Nathan Boddy.

I hope that headline caught your eye. Of course, if you know me, you know I’m talking about birds. Specifcally I’m talking about the fall migration of birds from Canada, Alaska, and the Northwest Territories through Western Montana.

A lot is known about migration and yet there is a great deal yet to learn. In the spring, the major trigger for birds to move north is gonad (sex organ) enlargement and releasing hormones that trigger movement north. That is coupled with length of day, temperature, and depending on the species, open water, and insect populations before migration is triggered.

Fall migration is triggered by length of day, available food, and weather patterns that have sustained winds blowing south coupled with temperatures. Both spring and fall migration triggers are complex and not well understood. Most migrants fy at night to avoid predators and are guided by the magnetic felds of the earth core and constellations.

Western Montana sees large migrations of waterfowl, songbirds and shorebirds. Shorebirds are the frst to migrate. We have found that unsuccessful breeders come frst in early August, followed by adults, then juveniles. Song birds come in mid-September through October, and waterfowl begin migration in late August and extend into mid-December. White Geese, Snow and Ross’s, are usually the last to come through in late November. Ofcially the migration

I hope that headline caught your eye. Of course, if you know me, you know I’m talking about birds. Specifcally I’m talking about the fall migration of birds from Canada, Alaska, and the Northwest Territories through Western Montana.

Bird Squawk

by Gary Swant

A lot is known about migration and yet there is a great deal yet to learn. In the spring, the major trigger for birds to move north is gonad (sex organ) enlargement and releasing hormones that trigger movement north. That is coupled with length of day, temperature, and depending on the species, open water, and insect populations before migration is triggered.

Fall migration is triggered by length of day, available food, and weather patterns that have sustained winds blowing south coupled with temperatures. Both spring and fall migration triggers are complex and not well understood. Most migrants fy at night to avoid predators and are guided by the magnetic felds of the earth core and constellations.

Western Montana sees large migrations of waterfowl, songbirds and shorebirds. Shorebirds are the frst to migrate. We have found that unsuccessful breeders come frst in early August, followed by adults, then juveniles. Song birds come in mid-September through October, and waterfowl begin migration in late August and extend into mid-December. White Geese, Snow and Ross’s, are usually the last to come through in late November. Ofcially the migration

season is from August 15 to December 15. This year as I write this article on August 22, the migration is on, a bit earlier than some years.

Field research that we conduct at Warm Springs Wildlife Management Area is our best local indicator of migration. Total shore birds for the year on August 21 in 2021 was 3,200. This year the total number is 6,800 and the migration has just begun. We are not sure why, perhaps the drier season and lack of water in Eastern Montana is causing birds to fy west in search of mudfats, which are critical for refueling (staging). Mud fats are in good condition at the Warm Springs WMA this year. On the August 21st survey date, we found 525 shorebirds in 22 species. Waterfowl and songbird numbers were up as well with a total of 107 species and 8,500 individuals. Just two weeks ago we only found 33 species and 4,840 individuals.

In just two weeks’ time the number of species has tripled, and the number of individuals has doubled. So if you enjoy birding, and I hope that you do, now is a good time to start walking along riparian stream banks, and scanning lakes and ponds. Granted, fall birding is a little tougher than spring birding. Many songbirds are juveniles and adults are not in breeding plumage nor are they singing. In other words, many of the songbirds look like females. In addition, many waterfowl are just coming out of molt and often don’t look like the breeding plumage pictures in your feld guide. Shorebirds can be especially difcult as fall plumage would make you swear it’s a diferent species than the breeding plumage. However, bill shape and size, overall size, leg length and body shape remain constant.

The positive side of fall birding is that the birds are not in a hurry to go south, they linger, taking on food and building fat reserves. This gives you plenty of time to study them. If you spook fall birds, they typically take fight and then return to the same spot. This is especially true for shorebirds.

So get out there, fnd a good spot to sit, be patient (I’m not really good at that), and the birds will usually come to you. It’s a great time to photograph birds as well.

Here are pictures of some fall birds you could expect to see here in Western Montana.

A

are in good condition at the Warm Springs WMA this year. On the August 21st survey date, we found 525 shorebirds in 22 species. Waterfowl and songbird numbers were up as well with a total of 107 species and 8,500 individuals. Just two weeks ago we only found 33 species and 4,840 individuals. In just two weeks’ time the number of species has tripled, and the number of individuals has doubled. So if you enjoy birding, and I hope that you do, now is a good time to start walking along riparian stream banks, and scanning lakes and ponds.

Snow Goose - move through in very large

Common Grackle – tend to be in large

Black-bellied Plover – non breeding plumage.

Wednesday, September 7, 2022

Bitterroot Star--Page 11

Calendar continued

Lone Rock Farmers Market

Every Saturday - June 3rd through Sept 28th, 4 to 7 p.m., Ambrose Creek Community Park, 4433 Sunnyside Cemetery Rd., Stevensville.

A special and unique market providing fresh, local produce, a variety of handmade goods, delicious food, baked goods, artisan products, new items regularly, park recreation, and scheduled family events nearly every week. Come check it out!

St. Mary’s Mission tours

Historic St. Mary’s Mission is now open for tours. Take a full guided tour of the Historic Chapel, Chief Victor’s Cabin and Fr. Ravalli’s fully furnished cabin. Tours ofered from 11:00am-2:00pm. Gift Shop, Museum and Gallery is open from 11:00am-3:00pm - Tue-Sat. 315 Charlos St. Stevensville, (406)777.5734.

Health and wellness classes

A free Health & Wellness Series with Dr. Cage is held on the 1st Thursday each month from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Ravalli County Economic Development Authority, 274 Old Corvallis Road, Hamilton. New presentation on natural healing topics followed by questions and answers. Website: drcagesays.org. RSVP 406-361-8073.

NV Library events

Science Squad for Ages 8-12 - Wednesday, August 30 at 4:00pm

Explore the universe, both micro and macro, and learn the science mysteries behind the natural world. Expect fun activities with Legos®, paper planes, food, and more. Children will soon be formulating their own hypotheses, experiments, and documentation in order to participate in a grade-free science fair at the end of the summer. Registration required.

The Art of Illumination: Adult Craft – August 31 at 6pm

Leave the digital age with its instant text and harken back to the days of the gilded page. During this adult craft night, you’ll learn about the medieval art of the illuminated manuscript and try your hand at illustrating and gilding an ornate letter or border in the style of your choosing. Registration required.

NVPL Closed on Labor Day – September 4

North Valley Public Library will be closed on Monday, September 4 in observance of Labor Day.

TOPS open house

An open house and picnic will be held on Thursday, August 31 for TOPS MT #343 (Take Of Pounds Sensibly). Former members and guests are invited. The meeting starts at 9:30 a.m. with a picnic to follow. Come and get acquainted with this weight loss support club. It meets every Thursday at Kootenai Creek Village, #43 Club House Way, Stevensville. For more info call Diana, 406-531-0785.

North Valley Pachyderms

The Bitterroot North Valley Pachyderm Club will meet Friday, September 1 at 12 noon at The Frontier Cafe, Hwy 93 in Stevensville. Guest speaker will be State Senator Theresa Manzella. The North Valley Pachyderm Club is an educational arm of the Republican Party. All are welcome.

Dances of Universal Peace

There will be Dances of Universal Peace on Sunday, September 3, at open ended creative arts center, 201 Daly Avenue, Hamilton, from 4-6 p.m. These simple, meditative, joyous dances use sacred phrases, chants, music and movements from many of the world’s wisdom traditions. New folks and experienced dancers create the experience together. The leader teaches the words, melody and movement before each Dance. All ages are welcome to join in. By donation. For more information, call Star 406-546-5344.

Stevensville Garden Club

Stevensville Garden Club’s monthly meeting will be Wednesday, September 6, 1 p.m. at the Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge picnic area behind the Visitor Center, 4567 Wildfowl Ln, Stevensville. This will be a social gathering rather than a speaker meeting. If you love gardening, you are welcome! For more info call Colleen 406-273-3973 or see their Facebook page.

Lutheran Preschool

Our Savior Lutheran Preschool is gearing up for the frst day of school on Wednesday, September 6th. Parents with 4-year-olds who have not made frm plans for preschool are encouraged to visit the teachers of Our Savior Lutheran Preschool for another option. Our Savior prepares your child for entering kindergarten while also providing a Christian foundation for living. Registrations of new 4-year-old students are welcome.

The preschool program is designed as solid preparation for kindergarten, emphasizing socialization and basic skills development for boys and girls, ages four through fve. Religious instruction is basic to the curriculum.

To be eligible to participate in the four-year-old class, children must reach the required age before September 10th.

Our Savior Lutheran Church, afliated with the Lutheran Church - Missouri Synod, is located at 184 Pine Hollow Road. For more information call 777-5625 weekday mornings. If no answer, try Joyce at 406-369-2536.

ProLife Bitterroot

ProLife Bitterroot will meet Thursday, September 7 at 6 p.m. at More To Come Fellowship, 330 3rd Ave., Victor. For more information call (406) 407-1254.

Square dancing

Enjoy square dancing at Lolo Community Center September-December. A free intro dance and free ice cream social will be held Friday, September 8 at 6:30 pm. Dances will be held on announced Friday evenings. New and experienced dancers are welcome. Call for schedule and more info: Butch Suttey, (208) 503-0551, or Tim Casey, (406) 218-8677.

Accordion Club

5 Valley Accordion club has two events in September: Dance and Jam 1-4PM, $7 admission at the door. Swing, waltz, polka, 2 step and more Sept 10th at Missoula Senior Center (705 S Higgins) Sept 24th at Rustic Hut in Florence

All come to have a good time!

Friends of the Bitterroot Public Library

Friends of the Bitterroot Public Library, a volunteer group that supports the Bitterroot Public Library, will hold their quarterly meeting on September 12 at 1 p.m. All members and people interested in becoming members are welcome.

Eagles bingo

Hamilton Eagles invite you to bingo on September 14 and 28. Cash prizes with food and drinks available. This month the 50/50 rafe benefts the Bitterroot Special Olympics. Bingo starts at 6 pm while the doors open at 5 pm.

Emergency preparedness classes

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is hosting free monthly Emergency Preparedness classes. They are held at 7 p.m. at the Church building located in Hamilton at 401 N. 8th Street. Upcoming topics of discussion include: September 14: “Basic First Aid & Kits: What to Have and How To Use Them.” Classes typically run 60-90 minutes. Call 513-3125494 with questions.

Medicare 101 workshop

A Medicare 101 Education Workshop will be held at Marcus Daly Hospital - Ravalli Conference Room. There are 2 sessions: Sept. 14th and Nov. 28th, from 12 noon to 2 p.m.

There is no charge to attend. This is for anyone seeking knowledge about how Medicare works. Ideally, if you are turning 65, new to Medicare, getting ready to retire or already on Medicare but don’t really understand it - you should be there! Bring a friend!

Overview: Come to a Medicare workshop to talk about Medicare Parts A, B, C and D. What they cover and don’t cover. When you can enroll. How eligibility works. RSVP: if you can to 406-852-4988 or charlene@medicareadvocates.com.

Coding for Kids

Coding for Kids fall classes are now open for registration! Many fun options for grades 1st-12th. Classes start Sept 25th at Stevensville Middle School so sign up soon at www. CodingBitterroot.org.

Craft fair vendors wanted

St. Mary’s in Stevensville is hosting a Christmas Craft Fair - “Fall Into Christmas”

Date: 10/14/2023 Time 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Set Up Friday 10/13/2023 Noon to 6:00. Doors open on 10/14/2023 at 8:00 am for Vendors and 9:00 am to the public. Join our crafters and vendor community. Applications are available, contact Phyllis Green (text) 916-2963435 or email request to bitterrootcraftdesign@ gmail.com for an application. This event will be cross advertised with the United Methodist Women of Stevensville who will be hosting a vendor/craft fair also. What a great way to start the holiday season and enjoy the town of Stevensville.

NV Library events

Public Hearings: Library Budget Adoption

FYE 2024 & Permissive Medical Levy Adoption

– Wednesday, Sept 6 at 3pm North Valley Public Library District Board of Trustees completed the fnal budget for fscal year July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024 at the August 16, 2023 board meeting. The Board will hold a public hearing on the fnal budget on Wednesday, September 6, 2023, at 3:15 PM, at which time the Board will take comment, then adopt the fnal budget. Any taxpayer or resident of the Library District may appear for or against any part of the budget. This public hearing will be held in the Library Community Room at 208 Main St., Stevensville. A copy of the budget is available at the Library.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR PERMISSIVE MEDICAL LEVY North Valley Public Library District Board of Trustees will hold a public hearing on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 3PM in the Library Community Room at 208 Main St., Stevensville. The purpose of this hearing is to take public comment and pass a Resolution regarding the proposed permissive medical levy for health care premium increases for Fiscal Year ending June 30, 2024. If you have any questions, please feel free to call the Library Director Denise Ard at 777-5061.

Knit & Crochet Club –

Thursday, Sept 7 at 12pm

Bring your work-inprogress, problem piece, or brand-new pattern and enjoy your craft with other knit and crocheters. There will be no presenter or expert teacher but rather a cozy place to gather, tea, and a community of yarn artists like yourself. All experience levels welcome!

Email Basics for Adults –

Thursday, Sept 7 at 6:30pm

Become an email wizard with this beginner-friendly workshop. We will practice creating a new email account and learn how to send, receive, and reply to an email; recognize and deal with spam; organize, delete, and search for messages; and more. Those who

attend a technology workshop at NVPL will be entered to win a free laptop at the end of the year. Registration required. The North Valley Public Library is located at 208 Main Street, Stevensville; phone (406) 777-5061.

Grief support group

In Eden, death was experienced and hope is promised. This 8-week grief support journey helps to discover that hope springs from the death of a loved one. Attenders can share their experiences, feelings, concerns and questions in a facilitated discussion format.

When: Tuesdays, 6:30pm, September 5th – October 24th

Where: Daly Leach Community Room: 1010 W. Main St., Hamilton

Who: Facilitated by Jonathan Sardella, Chaplain with Home Health & Hospice of MT Jonathan’s Contact: (406) 550-0976 or jonathan.sardella@gmail.com

Stevensville School Board

The Stevensville School Board of Trustees will hold a regular board meeting on Tuesday, September 12, 2023, at 7:00 p.m. in the MPR Choir Room.

Ravalli County Recycling

To hold Annual members meeting. If you have recycled glass with us or volunteered at glass recycling you are considered a member and are invited. RCR is a 501c3 nonproft and the annual meeting is a requirement for keeping our nonproft status. This year we need to vote on one board ofcer and vote to change a part of our mission statement. The RCR annual meeting this year will be held at Homestead Organics (175 Skalkaho Hwy, Hamilton) on September 24 th , 2023, from 5:30- 7 PM. If you’ve volunteered or recycled glass with us in the past year come join the meeting/potluck/ party. We’ll have a short meeting, then share a delicious Bitterroot potluck, get to know other recyclers, and of course end by singing our recycling song (original words by Jef Hahn to the tune of “Jumpin Jack Flash”) AND we have door prizes. For more information contact janicling@gmail.com.

Celebration of Life for William Guinard

Saturday, September 16th 1 to 5 pm Stevensville Senior Center

Restitution: The Often Forgotten Part of a Criminal Sentence That Gets Victims Compensated

The “big stick” in criminal law is being sent to jail or prison. But there is an additional “little stick” that often gets forgotten: restitution.

Restitution is the requirement to pay back the victim of a crime for documented economic losses from the crime. “Pain and suffering” doesn’t count for restitution; a crashed car that was stolen does.

Specifcally, a judge may order restitution as part of the criminal’s sentence and they often do. The state operates a crime victim’s fund and administers restitution payments for some crimes.

What happens if the criminal doesn’t pay you back? (Criminals have been known to not do what they’re supposed to do.) A judge can send the criminal to jail for not paying. This is because typically all or part of a sentence is suspended provided the criminal abides by the conditions of the sentence. Conditions include things like not committing any new crimes and, if there is a documented economic loss, paying restitution.

If the criminal with a suspended sentence that includes the requirement to pay restitution doesn’t pay, the prosecutor can ask the judge to reimpose the full sentence, which often includes jail time. That’s quite an incentive for the criminal to pay.

What if the criminal can’t pay (because they’re a criminal without a job)? Then the criminal can work off some or all of the restitution by doing community service at the rate of the minimum wage.

Of course, a crime victim can still sue a criminal in a civil case for damages completely separate from restitution. But the victim needs to be able to collect the judgment and that’s hard when a criminal has no money. Restitution is often the only practical way for crime victims to get repaid for their losses.

For a copy of this Ask An Attorney column, including hyperlinks to the referenced resources, go to www.OverstreetLawGroup.com/blog

(This information is of a general nature; exceptions to these general statements might exist. This information is for general educational purposes only; no attorney-client relationship with Overstreet Law Group, LLC is formed unless a person enters into a written representation agreement with the frm.)

2023 Ravalli County Fair!

Bellow Pippi, beginner 4-H/FAA children participate in sheep showmanship.

Above left, volunteers working on the grain threshing/hay baling machine during the antique machinery demonstration.

Above right, volunteers work to get the tractor to cycle the belt properly that powers the antique grain threshing/hay baling machine.

At the top, Pippi the clown plays a parachute game with kids.

At right, Sara Twister, an international demonstrator out of Berlin, tries to shoot a bow and arrow at a balloon centered apple on a volunteer’s head.

Photos by John Dowd.

2023 Rockin’ RC Rodeo!

At right, James Stoneharger rides a bull with purple powder fying from its back. The bull has a bounty on it by the Man Up Crusade program, a nonproft spreading awareness about domestic violence.

Below left, rodeo cowboy competing in steer wrestling during the Rockin’ RC Rodeo, Friday night.

At center right, Danger Dave, the rodeo clown, hangs of the fence and incites members of the crowd to cheer.

At center left a rodeo cowboy during the bareback bronc riding.

At bottom right, a rodeo cowboy breaks past the chute after a runaway steer for the tiedown roping competition.

At bottom left, Wesley from Cincinnati, Ohio, dressed in patriotic attire, performs his end-zone dance for the audience.

Photos by John Dowd.

Obituaries

Marsha Kay Turner

Marsha Kay Turner, 75 of Stevensville passed away on Sunday the 27th of August at home with her loving husband and caretaker by her side. She was born March 28, 1948 at Saint Joseph’s hospital in Wichita KS to the late Hellen Leanora (Minges) and Richard Lee Barnett. Marsha’s childhood and teen years were spent moving around the country following her father’s career from New Mexico to New York.

Marsha graduated from Monzano High School in 1966 in Albuquerque and the year after, while attending a church youth group at Temple Baptist in Albuquerque, she was spotted by a young Randy Turner who proceeded to call her and proposed the dynamite pick up line of “Say I have just come into the possession of $2.75 would you care to come help me spend it?” He jokes that she did not heed the warning and they were married June 7th 1968. That was the beginning of their 55 years together. Randy’s military service took them to Germany and then back stateside where their first son, Scott was born in Fort Collins Colorado. In 1975 their daughter Trisha was born in Rapid City, South Dakota. In 1976 Randy and Marsha moved to the Bitterroot valley where they have lived ever since. Marsha was a mom to the kids until they were both in school where she went on to secretarial and bookkeeping work at the Florence Christian Academy where the children attended. In the early 90s she started work in the accounting department at Turner engineering (no relation) and then to the bookkeeping

LaMar M. Steigerwalt

LaMar M. Steigerwalt, 81, of Corvallis, MT passed away on Tuesday, August 22, 2023 at home surrounded by his loving family and caregivers. He was born September 17, 1941 in Lehighton, PA to the late Pauline A. (Mertz) and Luther M. Steigerwalt.

LaMar was raised and lived most of his life near Ashfield, PA, where he enjoyed hunting and keeping up the family land with his tractor. He enjoyed riding motorcycle with family and friends. His faith life began nearby at Ben Salem Union Church.

LaMar graduated from Lehighton High School in 1959. After graduation, he served in the US Navy aboard the U.S. Cogswell DD 651 as a machinist mate. Following his service, LaMar met the love of his life, Carole L. Fricke, while working at Coplay Discount on a blind date at the company Christmas party. They married on August 8, 1964 at the chapel of Moravian College, Bethlehem, PA, where LaMar was a student. In 1967, LaMar graduated with a B.S. in accounting. Soon thereafter, he became a CPA while working at Ernst and Ernst in Allentown, PA. In 1972, he began a 20-year banking career at Merchants National Bank which included positions as Senior Vice President, Treasurer, and Comptroller. During this time, he raised three daughters. LaMar served on the Palmerton Hospital board and was active in the Allentown Lions Club, eventually serving

Death Notices

department at Rocky Mountain log homes. Throughout those years she also built a health and wellness business with Sunrider International.

Randy and Marsha found their long-time church family at Lone Rock Bible church in the late 90s where they found many precious friends and opportunities for service.

In 1996 their first of seven grandchildren were born. Being a Grammy brought her such joy and what a blessing she was to this tribe! Through the noise and tumult and holidays and birthdays she was in her element. She got to see three of her grandchildren married and got to kiss and hold 6 great grandchildren.

Marsha is survived by her husband Randy, son Scott, daughter Trisha, daughter-in-law Jennifer, sister Sondra Scott, grandchildren Lief, Ramira, Irie, Liam, Hannah, Anders, Reuben and great grandchildren Valorie, Raein, Inga, Brynin, Phoebe and little George.

Marsha is preceded in death by her parents Richard and Hellen Barnett.

The family would like to acknowledge Randy, her faithful husband and caretaker for the last two years of her life. His love and care and vows fulfilled have been a shining example of integrity in Christ-like love.

There will be a celebration of life held on September 10th at 4:00 PM at Lone Rock Bible church where we will celebrate the life of Marsha Turner- Wife, Mom, Grammy, Sister and Friend!

as President.

During his retirement, he and Carole moved to western Montana, setting off on many adventures from a location close to his daughters Laura and Debra. After numerous camping outings with the Good Sams group, he became known as the “leveler” of the propane stove. He made many new friends and enjoyed visits from friends and family for hunting trips in eastern Montana. LaMar and Carole went fishing in Canada, on Lake Erie, and throughout Montana.

LaMar was preceded in death by his brother Donald of Kriedersville, PA and nephew Rick.

He is survived by his wife Carole of Corvallis, MT; daughter Marla (Lucykanish) and her husband David of Lehighton, PA; daughter Debra and her husband Oscar Macz of Missoula, MT; daughter Laura (Capron) and her wife Kim Hendryx of Victor, Montana; sister-in-law Barbara of Kriedersville, PA; 15 grandchildren; numerous great grandchildren; a niece, Cindy (Harakal); and a nephew, Michael.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, September 16th at 1:00 pm at the First Presbyterian Church in Hamilton, MT with the Rev. Brianne Christiansen officiating. A reception will follow. Condolences may be left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com

The family suggests that in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to the Bitterroot Woman’s Club Foundation.

MaryAnn Burton

MaryAnn Burton, age 90, of Deer Lodge, died on Aug. 29. Services are being planned for Sept 6, 2023 in Sheridan. A memorial service for MaryAnn will be held in Deer Lodge at a later date. Please visit longfellowfnneganriddle.com to ofer the family a condolence or to share a memory of MaryAnn.

William A. “Bill” Sweet Darby - A Celebration of Life for William A. “Bill” Sweet will be held on September 9, 1:30pm, at the Darby High School gymnasium. The service may be livestreamed and condolences left for the family at www.dalyleachchapel.com.

Bill Sweet. Photo courtesy Daly-Leach Chapel.

My guide client and I were crouched tight under my portable table – we dared not reach out for any of the food we’d left on top of it. The sound of a thousand drums assaulted our ears as hailstones the weight of big round ice cubes totally destroyed our lunch.

The hailstorm slowed to silence within less than a minute after what must have been a ten minute or longer onslaught. We crept out through the hail balls piled at our feet to find my client’s fly rod leaned against the leeward side of a tree, perfectly dry. Stretched out on the boat seats it would have been smashed into a row of graphite slivers.

ant Tail nymph, close enough to the underwater stage of the mahogany duns we expected earlier.

by Chuck Stranahan

I was stunned by what happened to our lunch as I repacked the cooler. There wasn’t a trace of it left on the table – just a concocted smear of what was, just a few minutes ago, sandwich meat, salads, chips and salsa, on the ground in a slushy stain one side of the table. The snack food and fruit was still protected in the cooler; that’d have to get us by until we pulled out

What looked like rain clouds through the canopy of trees seemed a half-hour distant before the sudden ferocity of hailstones hit. Now the sky was clearing, getting sunny, and everything was silent.

We walked down to the river, kicking hailstones out of our way. After we flipped the boat to dump the hailstones out we saw a fish, then several more, boil below the surface.

“Here you go,” I told my client as I re-rigged him with a #12 Pheas -

“Cast across and slightly up, mend as you need to, and move it with steady short pulls. I don’t think you’ll need an indicator.” The fishing that followed for about the next 40 minutes was phenomenal. When it slowed a little we continued our float.

It seemed that every sixteen to eighteen-inch rainbow in the river wanted to eat that nymph; some larger ones broke off.

The boils were made by fish taking the nymphs below the surface.

The nymphs were swimming toward daylight after being pinned to the bottom by the barometric pressure of the storm. A dead-drifted nymph under a bobber or dry fly might have been ignored as those fish that were suddenly ravenous for live meat. They wouldn’t let that nymph go for more than three or four pulls before attacking it.

Intermittent rain showers – to say nothing of that hailstorm – are part of our change-of-season weather patterns. The barometer can do crazy things through the changes. The fishing can pick up when a steady rain hits or go to pot. Or it

can pick up when the sun is out, and quit when it goes behind a cloud. Or vise-versa.

The one thing that seems to hold for certain in broken weather is that the fishing picks up – and can go completely berserk – when a storm, even a little one, lifts.

When the sun comes out and there’s no hatch on the water, put on a nymph – and move it. The rising barometer makes trout think they’re hungry and they go on the prowl. And whatever nymphs might be hatching tend to get active at the same time, triggered by barometer and sunlight.

It had been cloudy and rainy all day when another client and I leaned against a tree by the river waiting for the worst of an all-day rain to lift. When the rain slowed the clouds remained heavy. Soon it would rain

hard again. But during that interlude where the rain was softer yet incessant and very wet we fished. There was no hatch that day. In amonth we might see blue-winged olives, but not now.

The day was dark with overcast. Leeches, present in every trout stream, come unbuttoned from their rocks or vegetation on the bottom and swim around taking in phytoplankton and other food from dusk to sunset and on dark stormy days. On those days a very simple olive, brown, or black #8 Marabou Leech can be an angler’s best friend.

I rigged my client up with a black one, showed him an itchy-twitch retrieve that keeps the fly moving, and watched him land several strong rainbows and cutthroats on his next few consecutive casts.

casting to reap the rewards. Photo by Chuck Stranahan.

by Scott Sacry Sports Editor

Florence, Corvallis, Hamilton football dominate

The Corvallis football team is of to an impressive start to the 2023 season. In their frst game they beat Browning, 45-0, then on Friday, Sept. 1st they trounced Frenchtown, winning, 41-6. The Blue Devils fell behind 0-6 early in the frst quarter, then scored 41 straight points to cruise to the victory. After giving up that frst touchdown, Corvallis’s defense held Frenchtown to under 100 yards of total ofense and zero points.

Ofensively, QB Aydan Mayn had a big game, completing 13 of 21 passes for 150 yards and 3 touchdowns. He also rushed for 40 yards and a touchdown. RB Logan Avery rushed for 101 yards. WRs Bennett Boelman, Gideon Boswell and Cameron Whiteley each caught touchdown passes. Levi

Reynoso had 10 total tackles and a sack. Corvallis is 2-0 on the season and hosts Whitefsh on Friday, Sept. 8th at 7 p.m.

Florence smothered Broadwater (Townsend) in their home opener on Friday, Sept. 1st, winning, 47-0. QB Mason Arlington went 16 for 19 with 188 yards and threw for 3 touchdowns. WR Tyler Abbott caught 6 passes for 97 yards and 3 touchdowns, and Gabriel Hartsell-Miller rushed for 76 yards and scored a touchdown.

The Falcon defense was sufocating, allowing no points, only three total yards, and just one frst down. Florence is 2-0 on the season and plays Huntley Project at MSU on Friday, Sept. 8th at 7 p.m.

Hamilton hosted Butte Central on Friday, Sept. 1st and the Broncs won, 57-18, in a lopsided victory.

Hamilton’s offense thrashed the Maroons, rolling up 530 total yards of ofense. RB Andrew Fredrick had a monster game, rushing for 218 yards and scoring 3 touchdowns. QB

Tyson Bauder was surgical, going 13 for 15 with 229 yards and throwing 4 touchdowns.

Hamilton is 2-0 on the season and will host Bigfork on Friday, Sept 8th at 7 p.m.

Stevensville hosted traditional power Dillon on Friday, Sept. 1st

Soccer Roundup

On Thursday, Aug. 31st, the Hamilton boys soccer team lost to Polson, 1-3. Andy Purcell had Hamilton’s lone goal. In the girls’ game, Hamilton defeated Polson, 1-0. Hannah Hughes had the winning goal for Hamilton. Then on Friday, Sept. 1st the Hamilton girls lost to Bigfork, 2-3. Hannah

Hughes scored both goals for the Lady Broncs. The Hamilton boys defeated Bigfork, 4-2. Hamilton got goals from Andy Purcell, Zachary Olbricht, Haven Oshell, and Jason Chaplin.

On Friday, Sept. 1st, the Stevensville boys lost to Whitefsh, 0-2. The

and lost, 0-44. Stevensville is 0-2 on the season and will play at Browning on Friday, Sept. 1st at 7 p.m.

On Thursday, Aug. 30th, Darby traveled to Valley Christian and lost, 8-64. Darby is 1-1 on the season and plays at Arlee on Friday, Sept. 8th at 7 p.m.

girls lost to Whitefsh, 1-5. Then on Saturday, the Stevensville girls defeated Libby, 5-0. Holly St. Germain scored 3 goals, while Maya Peretto and Cambree Praast each had a goal.

The Stevensville boys defeated Libby, 5-3. Spencer Moore had two goals, and David Beams, Lane

Cochran, and Evan Montague each added a goal.

The Corvallis boys played Columbia Falls on Saturday, Sept. 2nd and tied, 2-2. Corvallis got goals from Chance Jessop and Jack Hanssen. On Tuesday, Aug. 29th the Corvallis girls lost to Polson, 1-2.

Bitterroot cross country teams attend Flathead Invite

The cross country teams of Florence, Stevensville, Hamilton, and Corvallis all traveled north to compete in the Flathead Invite on Friday, Sept. 1st at Rebecca Farm in Kalispell. This was a huge meet with over 25 total teams participating from all class levels.

On the boys side, there were roughly 200 varsity runners. Hamilton’s Taylor Doleac fnished 4th overall (16:24.68). Florence’s Kyler Harris fnished 12th (16:24.68). Other fnishers included Hamilton’s Evan Bennett (50th) and Bryson Poulsen (53rd).

Corvallis’s Jack Davidson fnished 70th and Stevensville’s Cody Bradford fnished 107th.

On the girls side, there were roughly 150 varsity runners. Here are the top fve fnishers from Bitterroot Valley schools: Corvallis’s Laurie

Davidson fnished 8th (19:47.67), Hamilton’s Aleigha Child fnished 30th (21:11.50), Corvallis’s Ella Varner fnished 40th (21:36.01), Corvallis’s Violet Jessop fnished 48th (21:52.24), Hamilton’s Sierra Berry fnished 51st (21:58.10).

Florence WR Tyler Abbott trying to break a tackle in Florence’s 47-0 victory over Townsend on Friday, Sept. 1st. Abbott had a huge game, catching 6 passes for 97 yards and 3 touchdowns. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography.

Florence’s Arie Mclaughlin sacking the QB in Florence’s 47-0 win over Townsend. The Falcon defense sufocated the Bulldogs, allowing only one frst down and just three total yards in the shutout victory. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography.

Florence’s Harrison Shepp (#54) leading the way for Bridger Alexander (#14) in Florence’s win over Townsend on Sept. 1st. Photo by Stephanie K Geiser Photography.

Booked for the season

“I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here” by Jonathan Conyers

c.2023, Legacy Lit

$30.00 320 pages

Something’s all wrong about this scenario.

It doesn’t even look right. It’s a mess, which isn’t how you expected it to be. No, you should’ve turned around the minute you saw it, walked out the door, and denied all responsibility but now you’re involved. And in the new memoir “I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here” by Jonathan Conyers, making things good is going to take some work.

For most of his earliest life, Jon Conyers was never totally sure where he’d wake up the next weekend. His parents were both addicted to crack, and moving from apartment to shelter and back and from state to state happened all the time for him and his siblings.

“I just knew I never felt safe,” he says.

Despite that his childhood was “tinged with trauma,” Conyers’ parents insisted on one good thing: that their five children get an education. That was the family beacon, an unwavering base that never changed. Conyers says his parents were often high but they still showed up to parent-teacher conferences, without fail, and his older brothers each attended college.

Conyers, however, struggled. He did well in school while the family lived in Virginia, but back in New York, the streets were often more appealing than a classroom.

He says that the old African proverb is correct, though: it does take a village to raise a child. He saw, early-on, that if you don’t have a village, you need to build one yourself – and that’s what he did.

When he had trouble staying in school, a mentor held him accountable. Others saw past the righteous

helped him channel his energy and succeed. He was further encouraged to apply for a summer program that

come back to

by Terry Schlichenmeyer The Bookworm Sez, LLC

help the people in my community.”

And then his dream was almost derailed by one small thing... Does this story sound familiar? If you’re a fan of Humans of New York on social media or in books, then you might have read bits of author Jonathan Conyers’ story. In “I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here,” you’ll get the rest of it.

And you’ll see the grace inside this story, so much grace that it almost makes you weep.

Starting before he was born, Conyers writes, it seemed as though the universe was conspiring against him: he was almost aborted, he was sometimes hungry, and sometimes homeless. His education was often in question, as was his life, but there’s no real complaining in the telling of any of this. Readers just get the facts, in a voice that uplifts as it conveys awe at the presence of angels in a “village.”

anger that surfaced from him sometimes, and they pushed him to study at a Harlem high school that

expanded his horizons.

Conyers says “I was going to learn all I could, be successful, and

While this book seems aimed at adults, it could be a wonderful, meaningful gift for older teens, too. If anyone needs a feel-good, “I Wasn’t Supposed to Be Here” is all kinds of right.

For Sale: Caucasian Shepard dog puppies. Protect your family, your property and your livestock with this ancient herding, guarding breed. Call or text 406-210-4807.

HUGE YARD SALESept. 2-3 & 9-10, 8 AM to 3 PM. 632 Mihara Lane, Corvallis (of Hamilton Heights, watch for signs). 67 years of accumulation. A little bit of everything. Camping, hunting gear, reloading supplies, clothes, antiques, collectibles, much more. More stuf added for second weekend.

Storage unit item for sale. 5x10 storage unit full of antiques. Text only if interested in entire unit - sells as one. Pics of all items text 406-223-2879.

MONSTER CONUN-

DRUM ESTATE SALE!

Two Estates Combined - 1

= All Tools, 2 = All Vintage! 510 Riverside Ave., Stevi. Sept. 7 - 9 to 4 (prices frm), 9/8 - 9 to 3, 9/9 - 9 to 2 (½ price). Vintage everything from jewelry, clothes, glassware, hats, cowgirl boots & MORE! 100’s of hand tools, great power tools, ladders, welding items, router table & MORE! Huge sale! Better than a hardware store for tools. Amazing fun for vintage & collectibles! NO EARLIES, CASH.

PLUMS AND APPLES

Organic, tree-ripened. $2/lb HamiltOn. 406-369-3212.

Use Happy Jack® mange medicine to treat horse mane dandruf & lice. At Tractor Supply® (www.happyjackinc.com)

FREE high speed internet for those that qualify. Government program for recipients of select programs incl. Medicaid, SNAP, Housing Assistance, WIC, Veterans Pension, nSurvivor Benefts, Lifeline, Tribal. 15 GB internet service. Bonus ofer: Android tablet FREE with one-time $20 copay. Free shipping & handling. Call Maxsip Telecom today!

1-866-585-6456

Corrine Campbell, Physical Therapy/Myofascial Release, 406-7772679. Elizabeth Harper-Schurman, Counseling, Coaching, Hypnotherapy. 406-304-2517. 5501 Hwy 93N, Ste. 101, Florence, MT.

NOTICES

DISH NETWORK: Only from Dish- 3 year TV Price

Guarantee! 99% Signal Reliability, backed by guarantee. Inludes Multi-Sport with NFL Redzone. Switch and get a FREE $100 Gift Card. Call today! 1-855995-3572.

DONATING YOUR VEHICLE? Get more! Free towing. Tax Deductible. Plus a $300 restaurant voucher and a 2-night/3day hotel stay at one of 50 locations. Call Heritage for the Blind to donate your vehicle today - 1-855-9012620.

Connect to the best wireless home internet with EarthLink. Enjoy speeds from 5Gand 4G LTE networks, no contracts, easy installation,

GB. Call 855-419-7978

SWITCH AND SAVE up to $250/year on your talk, text and data. No contract and no hidden fees. Unlimited talk and text with fexible data plans. Premium nationwide coverage. 100% U.S. based customer service. Limited time ofer - get $50 of on any new account. Use code GIFT50. For more information, call 1-877-324-0193

WANTED BAR MAN-

AGER/BARTENDERMust possess an alcohol server certifcation valid in the state of MT or obtain one within 60 days of hire. The Eagles Lodge in Hamilton, MT is looking for an energetic Bar Manager/ Bartender with management experience, new ideas and small-town kindness. The job description will be discussed in the interview. Pay DOE. Please send resume to foe1693secretary@gmail.com to schedule an appointment. Thank you for applying. We need a great person to join our outstanding team.

STEVENSVILLE

UMC IS HIRING: Nursery Attendant. Responsibilities include: supervising and monitoring children during church services. Hours are 10:15am until approximately 11:45am. Hourly wage is $15. Experience with children is desired.

in person, by email at steviumc@gmail.com or by calling 406-777-5443.

& CHOUINARD, PC

By: David T. Markette,

Attorney for Personal Representative BS 8-23, 8-30, 9-6-23.

Daniel Browder BROWDER LAW, PLLC 217 N. 3rd St., Ste. J Hamilton, MT 59840 Phone: 406-361-3677

Fax: 406-361-2999

browderlawmont@gmail. com

Attorney for Rose K. Huckstadt MONTANA TWENTY-FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF EUGENE FRANCIS HUCKSTADT, Deceased. Case No. DP-23-89 Dept. No. 1

NOTICE TO CREDITORS

NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named Estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever

barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Rose K. Huckstadt, return receipt requested, ℅: Browder Law PLLC, 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 14th day of August, 2023. /s/ Daniel Browder, Attorney for P.R. 217 N. 3rd Street, Ste J Hamilton, Montana 59840 /s/ Rose K. Huckstadt, Personal Representative BS 8-23, 8-30, 9-6-23.

William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Ofce PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840 Telephone: (406) 363-3181

MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: JOHN MARK FULLER, Deceased. Cause No. DP-41-23-52 Dept. No. 1 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Tammie J. Jones, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 17th day of August, 2023. /s/ Tammie J. Jones

Personal Representative /s/ William J. Nelson

Attorney for Personal Representative BS 8-23, 8-30, 9-6-23.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Thursday, September 14th, 2023, 6:00 p.m.

NOTICE IS HERE BY GIVEN that the Stevensville Town Council will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 14th, 2023, 6:00 p.m. at their regularly scheduled meeting held at Town Hall, 206 Buck Street, Stevensville, MT 59870 for the purpose of considering an amendment to the Town of Stevensville FY22-23 Budget. Comments to be considered may be given orally at the hearing, submitted in writing via email to jenelle@townofstevensville.com<mailto:jenelle@

townofstevensville.com> or US mail to Town Clerk, PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 before 5:00 p.m. on September 14, 2023. Questions, comments or more information may be obtained by contacting the Town Clerk at 406-777-5271.

Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 8-30, 9-6-23.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Thursday, September 14, 2023, 5:00 p.m.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Town of Stevensville Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on Thursday, September 14, 2023, at 5:00 p.m. at Town Hall, 206 Buck Street, for the purpose of considering a Petition for Variance from Jim Cloud/Ridgeway Investments, owner of 218 W. 3rd Street.

The Petition for Variance requests the Board to approve a variance of the following local zoning regulations:

Developmental Code, Section 10-224-Dimensional Requirements Chart

a. The minimum lot area in square feet in an R-2 zone is 10,000 square feet. The applicant is requesting a variance to divide the current 11,760 square foot lot into 2 lots. One lot that currently has a home on it would measure 6,080 square feet and the new proposed lot would measure 5,700 square feet.

Developmental Code, Section 10-230-Residential Chart, and Section 10-231-Residential Chart Footnotes

a. R-2 Residential single-family dwelling (9) are permitted in an R-2 zone.

b. Footnote (9) minimum dwelling size is 1,000 square feet of habitable space. The applicant is requesting a variance to reduce the square feet of habitable space to 640 square feet.

Additional information, including the application for variance can be obtained by contacting Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk, 406-777-5271 ext. 102 or coming by Town Hall, 206 Buck Street, Stevensville, MT Monday-Friday’s 8:005:00. Written comments may be mailed to the Town Clerk, Town of Stevensville, 206 Buck Street or PO Box 30, Stevensville, MT 59870 on or before 5:00 pm September 14, 2023, or emailed to jenelle@ townofstevensville.com

Attest: Jenelle Berthoud, Town Clerk BS 8-30, 9-6-23.

Paul H. Gosnell (12347)

The Confict Resolution Center 3990 N. Main Street, Ste. 140

The Bitterroot Star Weather Summary

Logan, UT 84321 (435) 248-2230 Ofce Paul@CRC.law Attorney for Morgan Layne Harris IN THE FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT IN AND FOR CACHE COUNTY, STATE OF UTAH 135 N. 100 W, Logan, UT 84321 IN THE MATTER OF THE MARRIAGE OF: Letty J. Harris, Petitioner, and Morgan Layne Harris, Respondent SUMMONS

Civil No. 204100225

Honorable Angela Fonnesbeck Commissioner Christina Wilson

Discovery Tier Four THE STATE OF UTAH TO THE ABOVE-NAMED RESPONDENT LETTY HARRIS:

You are hereby summoned and required to answer in writing to a Petition to Modify with the Clerk of the above-entitled Court at 135 N. 100 W., Logan, Utah 84321, and to serve upon, or mail to The Confict Resolution Center, Petitioner’s attorneys, at 399 N. Main St, Ste 140, Logan, Utah 84321, a copy of your responsive pleading, within thirty (30) days after service upon you of this Summons. If you fail to do so, judgment by default shall be taken against you for the relief demanded in the Petition, which has been fled with the Clerk of the Court.

Petitioner’s Address:

Letty J. Harris 716 Main Street Stevensville, MT 59870

DATED this August 28, 2023.

/s/ Paul H. Gosnell

Paul H. Gosnell, Esq The Confict Resolution Center Attorney for Morgan BS 8-30, 9-6, 9-13, 9-2023.

LEGAL NOTICE David Dickson, Notice is now given, that, pursuant to the provisions of MC 70-6601, et seq, and the contract you signed, the contents of your storage unit number 55 is now subject to operator’s lien. Unless the accrued balance is paid in full before noon Friday, September 8, 2023 the contents will be sold at MT93 Storage, Victor, MT 59875, at 2pm Saturday, September 9, 2023. BS 9-6-23.

William J. Nelson, Esq. Nelson Law Ofce PLLC 217 North 3rd Street, Suite J Hamilton, MT 59840

Telephone: (406) 363-3181 Attorney for Personal

Representative MONTANA TWENTY FIRST JUDICIAL DISTRICT COURT, RAVALLI COUNTY IN RE THE ESTATE OF: STEVEN G. BRAWLEY, Deceased.

Cause No. DP-41-23-62

Dept. No. 2 NOTICE TO CREDITORS NOTICE IS HEREBY

GIVEN that the undersigned has been appointed Personal Representative of the above-named estate. All persons having claims against the decedent are required to present their claims within four months after the date of the frst publication of this notice or said claims will be forever barred. Claims must either be mailed to the Personal Representative, Buckie Brawley, return receipt requested, c/o Nelson Law Ofce PLLC , 217 North Third Street, Suite J, Hamilton, MT 59840, or fled with the Clerk of the above Court.

DATED this 29th day of August, 2023.

/s/ Buckie G. Brawley

Personal Representative /s/ William J. Nelson Attorney for Personal Representative

BS 9-6, 9-13, 9-20-23.

SUMM SYLVESTER & POLEDNAK, LTD. ALLYSON R. JOHNSON, ESQ. Nevada Bar No. 8286 1731 Village Center Circle Las Vegas, Nevada 89134

Telephone: (702) 952-5200

Facsimile: (702) 952-5205

Email: Allyson@SlvesterPolednak,com

Attorneys for Plaintif Lexicon Bank DISTRICT COURT CLARK COUNTY, NEVADA LEXICON BANK, a domestic corporation, Plaintif, v. VEGAS CAR CENTER, INC., a domestic corporation; MISHA NAVASARDYAN, an individual; DOE Individuals I through X; and ROE Corporations and Organizations I through V, inclusive,

Defendants(s). Case No. A -23-873219-C

Dept. No.

SUMMONS - CIVIL NOTICE! YOU HAVE BEEN SUED. THE COURT MAY DECIDE AGAINST YOU WITHOUT YOUR BEING HEARD UNLESS YOU RESPOND WITHIN 21 DAYS. READ THE INFORMATION BELOW.

TO THE DEFENDANT: MISHA NAVASARDYAN

A civil Complaint has been fled by the Plaintif against

you for the relief set forth in the Complaint.

If you intend to defend this lawsuit, within 21 days after this Summons is served on you exclusive of the day of service, you must do the following:

a. File with the Clerk of this Court, whose address is shown below, a formal written response to the Complaint in accordance with the rules of the Court.

b. Serve a copy of your response upon the attorney whose name and address is shown below.

Unless you respond, your default will be entered upon application of the Plaintif and this Court may enter a judgment against you for the relief demanded in the Complaint, which could result in the taking of money or property or other relief requested in the Complaint.

If you intend to seek the advice of an attorney in this matter, you should do so promptly so that your response may be fled on time. Issued at direction of:

CLERK OF COURT 6/30/2023

Demond Palmer

BY:

DEPUTY CLERK

Regional Justice Center 200 Lewis Avenue Las Vegas, Nevada 89155

/s/ Allyson R. Johnson SYLVESTER & POLEDNAK, LTD. Allyson R. Johnson, Esq. 1731 Village Center Circle Las Vegas, NV 89134

Attorneys for Plaintif BS 9-6, 9-13, 9-20, 9-2723.

PUBLIC NOTICE Sapphire Lutheran Homes, Inc. a non-proft organization, hereby notifes all interested persons of the City of Hamilton that we are planning to rehabilitate The Manor an afordable multi-family senior rental housing complex on the site at 401 N. 10th St. Hamilton, MT 59840. This complex consists of 60 apartments (42 one bedroom and 18 two bedroom) units for elderly persons. This Project will be exempt from property taxes.

An Application will be submitted to the Montana Board of Housing for federal Tax Credits fnancing. You are encouraged to submit comments regarding the need for afordable multi-family rental housing in your area to the Montana Board of Housing, PO Box 200528, Helena, MT 596200528; FAX (406) 841-2841, or electronically at https://housing.mt.gov/Contact Comments will be accepted until 5 PM on Monday October 2, 2023. BS 9-6, 9-20-23.

Crossword Puzzle

off their feet.

The opiate epidemic is an ongoing issue that doesn’t seem to be going away any time soon.

Fentanyl is being laced in drugs, including marijuana, in order to get the consumer addicted and coming back to the supplier for more. Pills are being sold as if they are produced by the legal manufacturer when they are really pressed Fentanyl pills. People are overdosing and dying due to the intense potency of Fentanyl. It’s important to seek help before it’s too late and you buy a lethal dose of Fentanyl. If you or a loved one are

struggling with Fentanyl addiction, reach out for help as soon as possible. We can help you get your life back on track and learn to live a drug free life.

To learn more about the growing opiate epidemic visit: https:// www.narcononnewliferetreat.org/ blog/how-fentanyl-is-accelerating-the-opioid-epidemic.html

ADDICTION SCREENINGS

Narconon can help you take steps to overcome addiction in your family. Call today for free screenings or referrals. 1- 800431-1754

THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN LIFE IS TO KNOW JESUS CHRIST AS YOUR SAVIOR.

At the end of your life, you will either go to Heaven or Hell.

According to the Bible:

In HEAVEN ——You will have perfect PEACE, forever!

In HELL ——You will have PAIN and TROUBLE, forever!

Enter into the narrow gate which is for the saved people. (Matthew 7:13). For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to Hell where you will never have peace. Most people will choose the wide gate! Don’t let that happen to you !

Scripture about Peace (Isaiah 41:10)

“FEAR NOT —— for there is nothing to fear. For I am with you. Do not look around you in terror and be dismayed for I am your GOD. Yes I will strengthen you and harden you to diffculties - yes, I will help you.”

Get saved and know Jesus Christ as your Savior. Jesus will help you in this life and the next one.

African Children’s Choir to perform at Victor

The International nonprofit organization Music for Life announces the 2023 U.S. African Children’s Choir Tour. The tour will include 50+ stops across the country. The African Children’s Choir is sure to melt the hearts of audiences with their performance of popular children’s music, traditional spiritual songs and African cultural pieces.

The 2023 tour is much more than a concert. The African Children’s Choir is composed of African children, aged 10 to 12 years old, all who come from vulnerable backgrounds and have faced hardship and lack of education. However, they represent the potential of the African child to become leaders for a better future.

“The African Children’s Choir proves just how powerful music can be,” says Tina Sipp, Choir Manager

for the African Children’s Choir. “These concerts provide hope and encouragement, not just to our audiences, but to the children whose lives are forever changed by their experiences with the Choir.”

For a full list of tour stops, visit https://africanchildrenschoir.com/ tour-dates/.

About African Children’s Choir: The African Children’s Choir is more than just a choir. It’s part of a larger, international, Christian organization called Music for Life, which provides thousands of impoverished children throughout Africa with the education, discipleship, and leadership skills needed to rise above their conditions so they can bring positive, lasting change to their families, communities and countries.

Members of the African Children’s Choir. Photo courtesy Bitterroot Valley Church of the Nazarene

Bird Squawk-Egyptian goose

I’m too grumpy to tolerate international birding trips anymore, with uncomfortable planes, long fights, missed fights, and running down the corridors hoping to make the next fight because the last plane was late getting into Salt Lake or Denver.

So I thought I would work on my United States list. It is a little short as

I have been concentrating on international birds for many years. That is why my grandson Caleb and I decided to go to California in June and see what we could add to our United States list. In the end, we not only got great birds in California, but a bird I would have traveled internationally to get as well.

Most of the species we focused on for California were exotic species that were escapees many years ago and have been accepted by the American Birding Association as successfully breeding on their own, thus countable. This includes a number of parakeets and parrots. There were also a few California native species that neither of us had previously seen. We thought we might be able to add 15 species in our four-day efort.

I had previously birded California and had 124 species on my California list. On this trip we did very well, having observed 143 species. As mentioned, we had hoped to get 15 North American and California life birds. We actually ended up with 20 life birds (new to our list) and I now have 187 species on my California list.

Birds we added include native species such as California Gnatcatcher, Ridgeway Rail, and Bushtit. We also took a boat out to Santa Cruz Island to get the California Scrub Jay, which is only found on that island. Others were non-native species such as Yellow-chevroned Parakeet, Redcrowned Parrot, Northern Red Bishop, and Mitred Parakeet. Most all of these were escapees from pet stores and bird owners years ago. We were also constantly checking ebird for any rarities that might show in or around Orange County where we did the majority of our birding. A notice came across the internet that there was an Egyptian Goose at San Joaquin Marsh Wildlife Refuge. This was a great rare bird if we could fnd it and it was only 60 miles out of the way.

The Egyptian Goose is a native of southern and eastern Africa. It is common there, but there are few records in North America. The accepted theory is that they get caught up with other goose species and migrate on occasion to the United States.

Here is the funny part of the story. The marsh was circular in shape and we took a left turn from the parking lot and hiked about an hour and nearly completed the circle. We were in

by Gary Swant

sight of the vehicle when we found the goose. Had we taken a right turn at the beginning we would have only invested 5 minutes rather than 60.

The most distinctive trait of this goose is the bill being black tipped and then yellow and black at the base. The coloration of the body varies from gray to brown. Much of the wing is white but doesn’t show unless the wing is lifted or in fight. Sexes are alike with males slightly heavier than females. To be honest, I might have overlooked this goose if I had been the frst one to see it. Often when you go to parks, there are many hybrid waterfowl. I would have noticed it was diferent but, being unfamiliar with the species, I probably would have overlooked it. I have someone else to thank for recognizing this species and reporting it. So now I have a species of East Africa and I have never been there.

So my United States bird list went from 665 species to 685 species. That is a great number for me, but I am only ranked at number 1850 from the top. In the world I have seen 2,543 and rank 1,500th. Next summer we plan to bird Florida for another 15 to 20 species.

Please remember, you can bird at any level so enjoy your style of birding. If it is your backyard, Montana, the United States, or the world, spend time just enjoying birds. They are relatively easy to fnd, but hard to photograph. Birding makes an enjoyable hobby, especially if you have someone to share the experiences with. So - go add to your list, and if you don’t list, great, that’s okay too!

Egyptian goose.

Photo by Gary Swant.