The iconic Saint Mary Peak Lookout will be staffed by volunteer hosts beginning in the summer of 2011. The Selway-Bitterroot Foundation, in partnership with the Bitterroot National Forest, will be coordinating the volunteer lookout host program. Volunteer lookout hosts will live at the lookout for up to four weeks at a time, and will serve as fire lookouts, interact with lookout visitors, and perform lookout maintenance duties. Pack support will be provided to carry food and personal items up to the lookout. Days off may be spent in the backcountry or in the surrounding Bitterroot Valley. Modest stipends will be provided to offset food costs.

Interested individuals can find more information and apply to be a volunteer lookout at the Volunteer page on Selway-Bitterroot Foundation's website at www.selwaybitteroot.org/volunteer. The application deadline for the 2011 volunteer lookout host positions is January 28, 2011.

The Selway-Bitterroot Foundation is a local non-profit organization dedicated to connecting citizens and communities to assist in the stewardship of the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and surrounding wildlands. For more information about the Selway-Bitterroot Foundation, visit www.selwaybitteroot.org.

New program helps UM students save

University of Montana students now have an opportunity to earn $3 for every $1 saved in a program called the Matched Education Savings Account.

For every $1 a UM student saves in a MESA account, the program offers a match of $3, with a maximum match of $1,500.

Students must meet certain income criteria, have earned income and be enrolled at UM. Participants must commit to monthly savings and participate in personal finance/money management training.

"With limited college funding available, this is a great way for students to quadruple their contribution to their own education while simultaneously learning money management skills that will last a lifetime," said UM Financial Aid Director Kent McGowan.

Matches will be made for the 2011-12 academic year, and applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis.

For more information, students should call Montana Credit Unions for Community Development at 406-442-9081, ext. 145 or visit http://www.montanacreditunions.coop and click on "Matched Savings Accounts."

Kleese graduates from Creighton University

Julie Kleese of Stevensville graduated from Creighton University with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree during the winter commencement ceremony on Dec. 18, 2010. More than 240 degrees were conferred during the ceremony at the D.J. Sokol Arena in the Wayne and Eileen Ryan Athletic Center on campus. University President the Rev. John P. Schlegel, S.J., presided at the ceremony. Creighton University is a Catholic, Jesuit institution located in Omaha, Nebraska.

UM-Western Dean's List

The University of Montana Western announced its fall 2010 Dean's List, which includes locals currently studying at the institution in Dillon. To make the Dean's List, students must achieve a 3.33 Grade Point Average or better.

The fall 2010 Dean's List included:

Corvallis: Dustin Marchant, Todd Marchant
Florence: Dana Christensen, Lacie Krier, Abbie Maricelli, Aspen McNeill
Hamilton: Jonathan Carrington, Paul Neustrom, Heather Rubey, Ashli Watts
Stevensville: Jessica Brunett, Bridger Chambers, Josie Clark, Sadie Hassler, Eli Kultgen.

Tax return help available

You could be cheating yourself at tax time, even if you are not required to file a tax return. The IRS estimates one in four taxpayers will overlook the Earned Income Tax Credit or EITC worth up to $5,600 or more this year. EITC is a refundable tax credit, meaning you can get money back even if you owe no federal income tax or had tax withheld. And, if you owe tax, it can offset the amount you must pay. The credit has been making lives of working people a little easier for over 35 years. Yet it remains little known, possible because people move into and out of eligibility as their income, marital status and parental statuses change. Unlike other tax credits, EITC is based on a combination of factors such as source and amount of your income, or combined income if married, whether you have qualifying children and how many. Although children are not required for eligibility, they increase the amount of your credit. Through new legislation, families with three or more children can get even more money. No-cost income tax help is available. Volunteer income tax assistance (VITA) sites will compute your EITC and prepare your return at no charge.

Area VITA sites are located at:

Stevensville:
- AARP: Stevensville Senior Center. 100 Mission St. Dates TBD. Thursdays 1pm - 4pm. Call 777-5681 for more information.

Hamilton:
- AARP: Hamilton Senior Center, 820 N 4th St. Appointment required, call 363-5181. - VITA: Ravalli County Federal Credit Union, 501 N. 1st St., February 1 through April 15. Appointment required. Call 363-4631 to schedule. Credit union membership not required to use this free community service.

Would you like to take advantage of one of the free on-line tax filing options but don't have a computer with Internet access? The Local Living Family Center located behind the Town Pump in Florence offers the use of a computer for free tax filing. Call 273-0142 and schedule an appointment to use the computer.

Remember, if you are eligible, you must file a federal income tax return, even if you are not otherwise required to file, and you must specifically claim credit to get it. According to the IRS, rural and non-traditional families, such as grandparents raising grandchildren, are among those who most frequently overlook the credit. Today, more than ever, hard-working individuals and families can use a little extra help. You can find additional information at http://www.montanafreefile.org. For more information call 1-800-666-6899.

Tester nominates Corvallis student to prestigious Air Force Academy

Senator Jon Tester has sent a letter of congratulations to a Corvallis high school student after nominating him to apply for enrollment at one of the nation's prestigious military academies.

Corvallis' nominee is Gregory Eickhoff, nominated to apply to the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Eickhoff is one of 31 Montana students Tester nominated based on their academic achievement, leadership, community service and participation in extracurricular activities.

A nomination, usually from a member of Congress, is the first step in applying to attend the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy, or the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.

"Every year I look forward to nominating Montana's best and brightest to our nation's military service academies," Tester said. "Montana has a rich tradition of military service and I'm proud of all young folks who dedicate themselves in service to our country. I congratulate Gregory and look forward to his future success."

Montanans interested in applying for a military academy nomination in the future are encouraged to do so online at Tester's website, http://tester.senate.gov/Services/nominations.cfm.

State parks enhance Montana's economy

Visitors to Montana's state parks spent $289 million throughout the state in 2010 according to an economic impact study completed this year. The comprehensive, survey-based assessment was conducted by the Bureau of Business and Economic Research at The University of Montana. Total spending was up 35 percent from 2002, the last time a similar survey was executed.

Montana State Parks had over 1.9 million visitors in 2010. This represents a 50 percent increase over park visitation in 2002. The majority of the increase was by Montanans, which increased nearly 79 percent.

"State parks are places that Montanans go to recreate and learn about their history," said Chas Van Genderen, State Parks Administrator. "The vehicle registration fee has made state parks accessible to all residents and they are clearly using them in large numbers."

The study showed that nonresident state park visitors stay in Montana for an average of seven days and spend $147 per day on gasoline, food, lodging, and other services and products. "Most of that spending is done within a 50-mile radius of a state park," remarked Van Genderen. "That directly benefits those communities located near parks."

Not only have parks seen increased usage, park visitors were more satisfied with service and facilities in 2010 than in 2002. Staff service, parking, rest rooms, signs, picnic areas, interpretive displays, and roads all rated higher in the minds of park visitors.

"The fact that visitors rated service and facilities the equivalent of 94 out of 100 speaks highly of the professional State Parks staff and the improvements and upgrades made over the past several years," added Van Genderen. "This is up from a 90% rating in 2002, so we feel we are moving in the right direction."

According to the Bureau of Business and Economic Research, "The fundamental conclusion of this study is that Montana State Parks represent an invaluable resource for the economy of Montana's regions, as well as the state as a whole. Satisfaction with the park experience, usage of parks, and spending, as well as ultimate economic impact, continues to grow. Clearly, the parks will continue to play an important role in the economic health of the state. "

The entire study can be found online at fwp.mt.gov or can be obtained by calling the State Parks office at 406-444-3750.

Local students named to MSU-Bozeman honor roll

Montana State University has announced its undergraduate honor rolls for fall semester 2010.

There are two MSU honor roll lists: the President's and the Dean's Honor Roll. Students must complete a minimum of 12 credit hours to be on either list.

Students with a perfect 4.0 grade point average for the semester were named to the President's Honor Roll. An asterisk follows the names of the 518 students named to the MSU President's Honor Roll in the listing below.

The Dean's Honor Roll includes the 2,223 students earning grade point averages of 3.5 or above for the semester.

Students named to MSU's President's or Dean's Lists, ordered according to their hometowns, follow.

Corvallis: Kirstin Bull*, Michele Henson, Karisse Horat, Forrest Hoyt*, Kyle Hoyt, Daniel Meuchel, Megan Monahan, Heather Warych

Darby: Zachary Honey, Shelby Rogala

Florence: Maxwell Burns, Kayla Daniels, Joseph Lawson, Charles Maclay, Kevin McChesney*, Elizabeth Miller*, Alyssa Sadowski, Kalin Warford Hamilton: Anna Adolphson, Miriam Bender*, Nathan Curdy, Kjerstine Fischer, Breanna Holmes*, Jessica Huggans, Heather Krueger, Daniel LaCroix, Laura Moran, Stacy Parker, Molly Perry, Michael Raveling, Sydney Stewart*

Lolo: Isaac Hunter, Karen Laing, Nathan Norberg

Stevensville: Sionelle Beller, Brittany Constantino, Daniel Daley, Amanda Rusnell*

Victor: Breanna Jones, Kristin Swindle

UM Alumni Assn. scholarships available

Applications are now open for The University of Montana's Alumni Association Scholarship, which is available to any UM student who has a parent or grandparent who attended the University.

Applicants must attain junior status before the beginning of fall semester 2011 and be a full-time student for the autumn 2011 and spring 2012 semesters. Graduate students who received baccalaureate degrees from UM also are eligible for the scholarship.

Completed applications are due to the Office of Alumni Relations by 5 p.m. Friday, Feb. 18.

The amount of the scholarship varies each year. Last year¹s recipient was awarded $4,000, and the Alumni Association¹s board of directors will determine the amount of this year¹s award in late winter. Winners will receive the scholarship funds in two equal installments during the 2011-12 academic year.

The application requires verification of eligibility, and applicants must answer a single essay question: What has been your most inspirational experience while at The University of Montana? Supporting documentation required includes a current resume and transcript. The application can be completed online or downloaded from the association's Web site at http://www.GrizAlum.com.

For more information about the scholarship, call Anne Hosler at 243-4754 or e-mail anne.hosler@umontana.edu.

Victor resident makes dean's list at University of Portland

Kaitlin Baldridge of Victor, a senior in nursing at the University of Portland, was recently listed on the 2010 fall semester dean's list. Students need at least a 3.5 grade point average to be eligible for the dean's list.

Call for artists

Artists Along The Bitterroot will hold their annual juried studio tour June 3-5, 2011. Any artist or artisan living in Ravalli County is welcome to submit. For applications and more information visit the website or call 406-381 7898. Application deadline is Feb. 20th.

Soroptimist scholarship available

Soroptimist International of Hamilton is offering the Professional Technical Scholarship award in the amount of $750. This is funded by the Hamilton Soroptimist chapter which provides funds such as this to further the education, self-worth, and independence of women and girls in our community.

The scholarship will be awarded to a qualified female who resides in Ravalli County, is admitted to or attending a technical or vocational program, has established her career goals, has evidence of community service, demonstrates financial need, and can provide two references. Applications must be postmarked by February 28, 2011.

Soroptimist members and their immediate families are not eligible. For further information or to request an application and reference form letters, contact Linda Looser at 360-4520 or linda@ nhpt.net.

Board of Livestock addresses DSA, OCV

The Montana Board of Livestock addressed a variety of issues at its meeting in Helena this week, ranging from its Designated Surveillance Area for brucellosis and official calfhood vaccination to scatter brands and more.

"It was a full agenda," said board chairman Jan French, a cattle rancher from Hobson. "We addressed some big issues that are important to the livestock industry."

The Board approved changing the official order that created the Designated Surveillance Area (DSA) for brucellosis into administrative rule.

The DSA outlines certain requirements for cattle producers in counties closest to the country's last known reservoir of brucellosis in and around Yellowstone National Park (Beaverhead, Gallatin, Madison and Park counties). Changes in the final rule include removing requirements for annual whole herd testing, adjusting the brucellosis vaccination requirement to focus on female cattle retained in a herd, and loosening language regarding penalties for noncompliance.

In a related move, the board took no action on a proposal to implement a statewide Official Calfhood Vaccination (OCV) program.

In other board action:
Scatter brands: The board approved a motion to split scatter brands designated with an "or." The separated brands will then be available to the holder as separate brands one separate brand certificates.
Freeze brands: The board reaffirmed its position that freeze brands are not legal on cattle for proof of ownership. However; administrative rules will be revised to allow for freeze branding for trademark purposes.

The next board meeting is scheduled for March 14-15 in Helena.

Forest launches new website

The Bitterroot National Forest has a new website. The newly designed site went live last week and it features many new updates and improvements. For starters, the new site is more user-friendly and easier to navigate. On the new home page, visitors can read about the latest news and events, locate weather forecasts, road reports, fire information, and recreation opportunities on the 1.6-million acre forest.

The site contains information about more than 35 campgrounds and picnic areas, 8 rental cabins and lookouts and many water sports and winter play areas. Forest users can also locate the latest emergency alerts, road and trail closures, and permit information.

"The new website is very user friendly," said Bitterroot National Forest Supervisor Julie King. "We think people will have a much easier time navigating and locating the information they are looking for. We will be updating the site often, so we encourage the public to check it out and share any feedback or ideas they have with us."

Other sections and features on the new website include:
- Forest maps and publications
- Articles on "Special Places" and things to do
- Historical facts and Forest "trivia" page
- Learning Center for parents and teachers
- Land & Resources Management page featuring the latest Forest Projects
- Volunteer information
- Office locations and key contacts
- Link to Twitter page
- Photo gallery

The new Forest website can be found at www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot. For more information contact Tod McKay or Susan Wetzsteon, website designer at the Sula Ranger District at 821-3201.

Forest seeking volunteer camp hosts

The Bitterroot National Forest is seeking volunteers to serve as camp hosts this summer. The Forest has many developed campgrounds located in beautiful settings. Campground hosts play an important role in assisting with the management of these areas and working directly with the public. Camp hosts are rewarded with a nice place to stay during the summer, lasting friendships, and a sense of pride in keeping the sites safe and communicating with the public about our National Forests. If you are interested in serving as a camp host on the Bitterroot National Forest, visit the new website at www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot for more information and to apply. The application deadline is February 28, 2011. If you have further questions about the program please contact Erica Strayer at the Darby Ranger District at 821-4298.

Logging in progress on Larry Creek

The Bitterroot National Forest is advising travelers driving near the Bass Creek Recreation Area and Charles Waters Memorial Campground on the Stevensville Ranger District that there will be logging traffic in the area until early March. Travelers are advised to drive with extra caution as there will be machinery and log trucks traveling the roads during the weekdays. To provide for safety, Forest Road #1136 will be closed at the Bass Creek Trail parking lot during the week while log hauling operations are in progress. Public access to the Bass Creek Trailhead and parking area will remain open. Hauling will be restricted on weekends and federal holidays. For more information contact Pat McKinnon or Gina Reinschmidt at the Darby Ranger District at 821-3913.

Hospital donates to Hamilton Schools nurse program

On Monday, January 17, Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital Board Chairman Sonny LaSalle presented Duby Santee, Hamilton School Superintendent, with a $6,500 donation for the Hamilton School District nurse program.

"This donation is vital to our much needed school nurse program," said Santee. "It covers the program supplies and a portion of the salaries. We could not have this program without the help of the hospital."

The nurse program serves over 1600 students between all five schools. According to school nurse Kristen Tolsen, RN, "There has been a growing number of type 2 diabetes, and child obesity, as well as a drastic increase in autism, asthma, and allergies. We do what we can to keep up with the workload."

With one-time federal grant monies the Hamilton School District hired an additional part-time school nurse, Nancy Doyle, to help meet the needs of children. The district is currently working on the budget to fund this position in the future.

"Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital continues to offer the school nurse program grant monies to the Ravalli County School Districts that apply and meet the criteria because we want a healthier population and believe that the education process needs to begin when people are young," said LaSalle.

Habitat for Humanity of Ravalli County selects partner family

Habitat for Humanity of Ravalli County has selected its newest partner family. Travis and Venessa Sanderson grew up in the Bitterroot Valley. Travis works for Swift trucking supplies regionally. He and Vanessa have three children, Kalhan (7), Jazmyn (6), and Gabriel (1).

The Sanderson's current housing is inadequate. It is cramped, poorly insulated and the rent payment takes up a substantial portion of their income, more than their Habitat mortgage will. Habitat for Humanity's partner family program provides them with the opportunity to own a simple, decent, affordable home that would otherwise be beyond their reach. As other Habitat homes have done for past partner families, the Sanderson's house will help break the cycle of poverty for their family and offer their children hope for a better future.

The day they were selected as the next partner family, Travis said, "It feels like a ton of bricks came off of me. This is coming from a truck driver that is away from home. I don't have to worry about my family. They will be in a safe house." He and Vanessa are excited to work on their home with friends, family and community members.

All money to build Habitat for Humanity homes in Ravalli County is raised locally. There are no paid staff members. Habitat for Humanity is dependent upon the support of community volunteers for its success. The organization has already received generous gifts of excavation, foundation materials and labor, and a grant for solar panels from the community for the Sanderson's home, but is in need of much more.

The Sandersons will contribute 500 hours of sweat equity toward the project as part of their homeowner program. Their home will be located at 702 Cherry Street in Hamilton, where two years ago the lot was occupied by a partially burned, abandoned home and dilapidated outbuildings. Habitat for Humanity demolished the buildings and cleaned up the lot for use as a site for the Borgen and Sanderson homes. Christy Borgen's home was dedicated in March, 2010. She and her children, Kyle and Allison, look forward to getting to know their new neighbors and fellow Habitat partner family.

Christy says, "I truly love our house and the stability it's given us, and the relief a reasonable mortgage has been. Thank you so much to everyone who contributed in any way. I'm excited to see the process through again and again for all the families to come. Habitat for Humanity is such a life changing experience and I'm so grateful we have this organization in our Valley."

Habitat for Humanity hopes to finish the Sanderson's home by June 30 and requests gifts of labor, money and materials in order to do so. Items such as lumber, electrical and plumbing supplies, and finishing materials will enable the organization to provide the Sandersons with their own home this year.

Habitat for Humanity of Ravalli County has previously built homes in Hamilton, Corvallis and Darby. Families are chosen to partner with Habitat for Humanity through a thorough selection process that assesses their need for a home and ability to repay the no-interest mortgage. Volunteer opportunities are available in the areas of Building, Church Relations, Public Relations, Fundraising, and Volunteer Relations. Community members from all walks of life can help in a variety of ways, regardless of age or experience. Everyone is welcome to help and to be a part of this incredible, life changing experience that will provide so many opportunities to this deserving partner family.

For more information visit RavalliHabitat.org or call 406.375.1926.

Resource advisory committee seeking projects to fund

The Ravalli County Resource Advisory Committee (RAC) is now accepting project proposals for 2012. Projects must benefit National Forest System lands and ecosystems in Ravalli County. The RAC will allocate approximately $200,000 in project funding.

Projects must meet established criteria and improve federal lands in the following areas: roads, trails, infrastructure maintenance, soil and forest ecosystem health, watershed restoration, maintenance and improvement of wildlife and fish habitat, control of noxious weeds, and re-establishment of native species. At least 50 percent of all project funds are dedicated to restoring streams and watersheds; or road maintenance, decommissioning or removal. Projects may be on private land, but must show a direct benefit to National Forest System lands.

The application deadline is March 30, 2011. Project applications are available online at www.fs.usda.gov/bitterroot. Printed copies of the application are also available at any Bitterroot National Forest office.

Resource Advisory Committees were established in 2000 under the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act, for local community collaboration on projects that benefit federal lands. The RAC's mission is to recommend how to allocate the portion of federal funding that Ravalli County receives. For more information or details on submitting a project proposal please contact Nancy Trotter or District Ranger Dan Ritter, at the Stevensville Ranger District at (406) 777-5461.

Allegra FootPRINT Fund® to award print services to local nonprofit organizations

The Allegra FootPRINT Fund®, launched today, will help Ravalli County area nonprofit organizations "leave a footprint" in the community by awarding print and communication services for promotional and informational materials.

The Allegra FootPRINT Fund will award $10,000 annually to nonprofit organizations and associations seeking financial assistance for graphic design and printing of brochures, newsletters, forms, invitations, posters, banners and other print communications. Applicants that qualify are eligible to receive up to $1,000 each in 2011.

"Enriching our community is an important goal at Allegra," said Michelle Mendenall, owner. "The FootPRINT Fund was created to provide a means of helping local organizations receive assistance in an area that may not be addressed by other funding sources."

To be considered for a FootPRINT Fund award, nonprofit groups, associations and charitable organizations with a main office or branch in Ravalli County must submit a completed application by February 28. Application forms may be obtained at 1151 N. First Street, Suite C, or on the company's Web site at www.allegrahmt.com.

Award recipients are selected by a review panel based on how the print services will be used to further organization goals including service expansion, program enhancement and maximization of existing resources, as well as the organization's innovation and resourcefulness. All applicants will be notified of their award by March 15.

"This program is a way for us to make a difference in our community, one step at a time," said Mendenall. "Here at Allegra, we feel that it is extremely important to reach out to those in need and help our local organizations and associations leave their 'footprints' in the community."

Allegra in Hamilton is a full-service marketing communications provider with in-house printing technologies including full-color printing, short-run digital printing, variable data capabilities, color signs, posters and banners, graphic design, mailing services, corporate apparel, silk-screening & embroidery, promotional products, print management solutions and project consulting. Allegra is a member of Allegra Network LLC, one of the world's largest marketing, print and graphic communications franchises linking more than 500 locations in North America.

For more information, call (406) 363-7645 or visit the company's Web site at www.allegrahmt.com.

Resources for Employers Addressing Domestic Violence

Employers and co-workers are often concerned about how to respond to domestic violence when it's happening to someone at work. The Workplace Issues Committee of the Ravalli County Coalition Against Domestic & Sexual Violence is pleased to offer resources that can help.

Together with S.A.F.E. staff and other resources, we can provide custom training and awareness programs that meet the needs of your workplace whether it is help with a safety audit, policy development, DVDs, brochures, Power Points, or presenting a program to your staff. We can offer programs as short as 15 minutes, or as long as a full day. We can offer programs for supervisors, co-workers, administrators or all staff. We can help you design your own program, or provide resources that address your specific concerns or interests.

Domestic violence affects many employees. Domestic violence is a safety concern, a performance concern, a liability concern, and a health care concern. But, a safe and supportive workplace can be a lifeline for many survivors and their families. Employers can - and do - make a big difference! Give us a call to get your workplace started. Call Sonya or Jamie at S.A.F.E., 363-2793.

Walters, Hill and Frost named to University of Great Falls Dean's List

Sherry Walters of Stevensville, MT, Jenni Hill of Victor, MT and Michael Frost of Stevensville, MT were named to the fall semester Dean's List at the University of Great Falls in Great Falls, Montana. The Dean's List recognizes students who have received a 3.5 or higher grade point average.

FWP extends comment on proposed weapons restriction areas rule

The Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission will take comment on a proposal to revise the deer, elk and antelope regulations as they pertain to acceptable ammunition for muzzleloaders and shotguns used in Weapons Restriction Areas (WRAs) through Feb. 22. WRAs are designed to allow for big game hunting near developed areas, while at the same time, protecting public safety. New technological advances in ammunition for muzzleloaders and shotguns, such as sabots, can enhance the range of some of these firearms, which could compromise the public safety provisions on Montana's WRAs. The proposal would prohibit the use of sabots and similar ammunition on WRAs. To comment visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov. Click "For Hunters." Email comments to gpayne@mt.gov; mail comments to: FWP‹FWP Enforcement Bureau, Attn: Public Comment, P.O. Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701.

Stevensville Clothes Closet Report

The Stevensville Clothes Closet is a free, non-profit store. It serves as a local recycle center for household goods. They accept donations of clothing, household linens, and small kitchen items. The volunteers then wash and sort them as necessary and offer them to the community for free.

As the needs in the Bitterroot Valley have grown, so have the generous donations of both goods from the community and time from Clothes Closet volunteers. For the year of 2010, a total of 77,244 pounds of clothing and household items were given away, which is 12,000 more pounds than in 2009. In 2010, volunteers gave 7,746 hours of their time and 9,993 shoppers visited the Clothes Closet.

The store currently is especially in need of towels, dish towels and bed linens. If you find yourself in abundance of these and would like to donate to the Clothes Closet, their hours are Monday, Wednesday and Saturday from 1:00-4:00. They¹re located at 3862 ALC Way off of Middle Burnt Fork Road in Stevensville. Tax-deductible contributions are always welcome and can be sent to 1384 Meridian road, Victor, Montana 59875. For more information, please call Gail at 777-5694 or Molly at 961-34614.

Elk in Peril A Documentary Film

Bitterroot Beagle Productions, a Hamilton, Montana video production company is producing a documentary film on the Bitterroot Elk Study, in association with Sherman Media. This study is being conducted by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) to determine the cause of the dramatic decline in elk populations in the Bitterroot Valley. This study could very well address the cause of declines in elk populations elsewhere, including Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming and Idaho.

The first phase of the study begins in mid-February with the capture and radio collaring of 46 cow elk. Subsequent collaring of calves and wolves will also take place as part of this study, with monitoring of all animals to follow.

The producers of the documentary decided on this project because they feel this study will prove to be a vital tool in future elk management. Elk are one of Montana's great natural treasures. Since 2004 however, the elk population in the Bitterroot Valley has been in decline. The latest surveys show cow:calf ratios as low as 11 calves per 100 cows, which is insufficient to sustain the herd. If this trend continues, biologists fear elk could eventually disappear from the Bitterroots.

The Bitterroot Elk Studies' purpose is to find the cause of the population decline and the low cow:calf ratios. Finding the cause is vital to taking action to reverse the current trend and restore the elk herd to a healthy, sustainable status.

Big game hunting brings a reported $33 million annually into the Bitterroot Valley economy. Hunter numbers were down 36% at the Darby, Montana check station in 2010. The result is a potential loss to the Bitterroot Valley economy of $10 million. There is real fear for the long-term outlook of the elk herd. A loss of elk in the Bitterroot Valley would be nothing short of disaster. The Bitterroot Valley has already sustained huge losses with the virtual destruction of the log home, timber, real estate, and construction industries. Elk are a treasure that cannot be ignored. This study, along with our documenting of the study, is vitally important for the economy of the Bitterroot Valley.

Pheasant release program applications due soon

Landowners interested in raising and releasing ring-necked pheasants this year through the state Upland Game Bird Enhancement Program have until May 15 to submit an application.

Under Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks' Upland Game Bird Release Program, landowners who attempt to establish pheasant populations in suitable habitat can be reimbursed for raising and releasing pheasants. Pheasant releases generally take place between Aug. 1 and Sept. 15.

Landowners can apply if the land in the proposed project area remains open to reasonable public hunting. Projects must comprise at least 160 contiguous acres of land and contain a combination of habitat components‹including cover and food‹that upland game birds need to survive.

Projects on private and public lands submitted in partnership with youth organizations, 4-H clubs, sports groups, or other associations that can guarantee the completion of all project requirements, are also eligible.

Hunting preserves, lands that host a commercial hunting enterprise, or lands where hunting rights are leased or paid for are not eligible.

Applications must be postmarked no later than May 15. Applications hand-delivered to FWP regional offices must be received by Friday, May 13.

For more information, and an on-line application form, visit FWP's website at fwp.mt.gov or contact your nearest FWP office.

Engagement

Mr. and Mrs. Jim and Cari Cloud of Stevensville are pleased to announce the engagement of their daughter, Amanda Holly Cloud to Kelly Garon Carlson, son of Dr. and Mrs. Layne and Marti Carlson of Twin Bridges. Amanda is a 2002 graduate of Stevensville High School and a 2009 graduate of Montana State University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in Agricultural Education. Amanda is employed as a pharmacy technician at Ridgeway Mail Order Pharmacy in Victor. Kelly is a 2003 graduate of Twin Bridges High School and a 2009 graduate of Montana State University, where he earned his bachelor¹s degree in Industrial Technology and a minor in Business Administration. Kelly is employed as a machinist at Autopilot, Inc. in Bozeman. Amanda and Kelly are planning an August wedding in Stevensville and a September reception in Twin Bridges.

Births

Births at Marcus Daly Hospital, Hamilton

1/12/11
Girl, 7 lbs., 2 oz., 19-3/4 inches, to Jenna Cahoon and Shane Jones, Hamilton
Boy, 8 lbs., 12.5 oz., 23-1/2 inches, to Malorie and Brandon Cook, Hamilton

1/19/11
Boy, 6 lbs., 11 oz, 19-1/2 inches, to Rebecca Roberts and Courtney Lewis, Corvallis

1/21/11
Girl, 6 lbs., 15.8 oz., 19-1/2 inches, to Holly and Chris Smith, Hamilton

1/22/11
Girl, 7 lbs., 19-1/2 inches, to Brandi Schultz and Joseph Stanford, Darby

1/25/11
Girl, 7 lbs., 8 oz., 19 inches, to Anna Saylor and Donald Burrow, Hamilton

Obituaries

Death Notices

Anna Shepard

Missoula Anna Shepard, 62, passed away in the afternoon, Sunday, January 23, 2011, at her home. Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

Millie Bostrom

Stevensville - Millie Bostrom, 95, of Stevensville, passed away Thursday, January 27, 2011 at Kathy's Place Assisted Living in Florence of natural causes. A celebration of Millie's life will be held this spring and the date and time will be announced by the Whitesitt Funeral Home.

Robert L. Parrish

Stevensville - Robert L. Parrish, 73, passed away Friday, January 28, 2011 at his stepdaughter's home in Stevensville of natural causes. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Whitesitt Funeral Home.

Fred L. Lehman

Missoula - Fred L. Lehman, 78, passed away Friday, January 28, 2011 at his home in Missoula of natural causes. A memorial service is pending and will be announced by the Whitesitt Funeral Home.

Timothy J. Schaff

Victor - Timothy J. Schaff, 31, passed away Friday, January 21, 2011 at his home in Victor. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Whitesitt Funeral Home in Stevensville.

Evelyn Louise Hickman

Seeley Lake - Evelyn Louise Hickman, 94, formerly from Salt Lake City, Utah, passed away in the night, Friday, January 28, 2011, at the St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula.Condolences and memories may be shared with the family at www.brothersmortuary.com

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