Hometown heroes

bitterroot valley

hometown

heroes AUGUST 31, 2014

2 - Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014

HOMETOWN HEROES

Hometown Heroes 2014

HAMILTON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT................... 3

is published by the Ravalli Republic Newspaper a division of Lee Enterprises Jim McGowan Publisher Sherry Devlin Editor Jim Coulter GENERAL MANAGER Dara Saltzman Production & Design Frannie Cummings, Kathy Kelleher, Jodi Lopez, Justine Morris Project Sales

CHUCK BURRIER..................................................... 4 MONICA GRABLE.................................................. 6 ROSIE HUCKSTADT................................................ 8 RUSS LAWRENCE................................................. 10

Hometown Heroes 2014 is copyright of the Ravalli Republic Newspaper.

COVER PHOTO by Michelle McConnaha 2014 Hometown Heroes: About half of the current firemen in the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department in their gear holding the tools they use, including the Jaws of Life, saws and Pulaskis.

DOUG MASON..................................................... 12 SUE MCCORMACK.............................................. 13 AL MITCHELL......................................................... 15 DONNA WEIDOW................................................ 17

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SAPPHIRE LUTHERAN’S HEROES...................... 19

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Hamilton volunteer firefighters: all hometown heroes MICHELLE McCONNAHA

them, so we ask for a huge commitment Ravalli Republic and expect it,” said The Hamilton Mohn. “It is very Volunteer Fire hard on families.”

Department goes They spend time above and beyond doing community the call of duty for education, fire preour community. vention assemblies They are dedicated at schools and drills. minute-men who They are on standwork tirelessly to by as a preventative protect lives, homes measure at fireworks and businesses. They shows, bonfires and are always on call – more. always. They do not The firemen train receive a paycheck. together every When the alarm Thursday night rings, they go. They and each volunteer miss their children’s gets a year of inbirthdays, leave depth training and their wives on dinner is teamed up with dates, give up sleep an experienced fireand rush from work. fighter.

They do so “Until they combecause they have a plete ‘Firefighter deep desire to serve, One,’ they ride in protect and help. It’s Provided Photo the command car a lifestyle - not some- 2012 Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department in their dress uniforms (current firemen on the left, retired firemen on with the other offithe right), Fire Chief Brad Mohn in white cap. thing they do, but cers, and are not something they are. free to just get on a Brad Mohn, chief of the Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department, truck,” said Mohn. said he’s proud of his men.

Rich Luedecke, the newest member of the department said he “We have 25 volunteers and to give the hours they give - they learns something new every call. are very dedicated in serving their community,” said Mohn, who “I think it’s a great experience and a great family,” said Luedecke. has served for 25 years. “We are on schedule to respond to 300 “It is great training and an excellent hardworking crew.” calls this year – a little less than one a day, plus all of the training.

Greg Marose, a volunteer for nearly 20 years, said HVFD “is the It’s a huge commitment and I’m excited that the department as a best fire department in the state, ahead with training and equipwhole has been nominated - it’s quite an honor. ment.”

“They are all go-getters. We all love this job for the camaradeThey rely on each other, protect one another and call themselves rie, serving the community and the adrenaline rush.” brothers. The firefighters and the families that support them are The current roster of volunteers includes: Nathan Brady, John united and they appreciate their employers who let them serve.

Carlson, Troy Crawford, Robert Dugan, Chris Fussell, Jerad “There are a lot of people who have made this department what Horvath, Corey Johnson, Joe Kerr, Jim Kostecki, Rich Luedecke, it is over the 120-year history,” said Mohn, showing the plaques of Greg Marose, Chris Mayer, Kevin Mora, Dan Partney, Tom Pitzinger, names - listing an extraordinary family.

Cal Robinson, Beau Rominger, Frank Shambles, Tony Sisson, Brian The Hamilton Volunteer Fire Department – all hometown heroes.

Taggart, Scott Turner, Josh Wagner, Travis Walker, Tyson Woods and Mohn.

“There’s a huge investment in the city and training and outfitting

4 - Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014

PERRY BACKUs/RAVALLI REPUBLIC

Chuck Burrier of Stevensville has made it a point to volunteer every Tuesday to help out in whatever way he can at the Teller Wildlife Refuge, including making needed repairs to waterfowl blinds like this one.

Teller wildlife refuge’s treasure PERRY BACKUS Ravalli Republic

CORVALLIS - Whether it’s raking leaves or leading a crew to complete a conservation project, Chuck Burrier is a volunteer that folks at the Teller Refuge have come to trust.

Since 2003, Burrier has made it a point to volunteer his services at

the nonprofit, private wildlife refuge every Tuesday morning.

“Chuck’s white beard and overalls have become a familiar and integral part of Teller,” said Lauren Rennaker, the refuge’s development manager. “He rarely misses his Tuesday morning work days and even plans his family vacations around his Tuesday availability.”

“While Chuck’s contribution of time, energy and good humor is

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an incredible gift to Teller, the real treasure is to get to know him, to experience his pride in what he accomplishes at Teller by working side by side with him, and to learn from his generosity, cheer and wisdom,” she said. “Over these past 11 years, Chuck has never faltered from being the most dependable and hardworking volunteer an organization could ask for.”

The refuge’s former conservation programs director, Sam Lawry, remembers Burrier as a man with a deep passion for wildlife conservation and the look of something akin to “a gray-bearded duck commander.”

“One of the most unique things about Chuck is his willingness to help out in any way possible,” Lawry said. “He would rake leaves or work on building goose nesting platforms. It didn’t matter what the job was, he was always willing to help out and get it done.”

Lawry currently serves as the Western director for both Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever organizations. He works with a lot of volunteers across the county.

“The motto in this business is when you are looking for a good volunteer, look for the busiest one and put more work on their plate.

They are the ones who always get things done,” Lawry said. “Chuck is one of those. He could have 10 things going on, but would always find a way to get one more thing accomplished.”

Burrier spent 22 years working as a physical plant superintendent at a California university before retiring in Stevensville.

After moving to Montana, he read a small article in the Ravalli Republic about the refuge’s annual cleanup that depends on volunteer crews.

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“I called and got on the list,” Burrier said. “I met some new people and found that I liked the refuge, so I just kept coming back for more.”

Burrier’s enthusiasm over the Teller refuge is contagious.

Four or five years ago, Chris Jones started talking with Burrier about their shared passion for waterfowl hunting at the church they both attend. Of course, Teller became part of that conversation.

One thing led to another and before long the two men spent a day hunting from one of waterfowl blinds on Teller.

“It’s one of the best waterfowl hunting spots in the state,” Jones aid. “One of the advantages of volunteering there is the opportunity it opens to hunt there. He took me there for a hunt and I was ready to volunteer.”

Over the last five years, Jones has come to know Burrier as a volunteer always ready to step forward and do whatever needs doing.

“He does the fun projects and those that no one else wants to do,” Jones said. “He’s just a humble, selfless person who really never has a bad thing to say. He also has a sneaky funny sense of humor.

You don’t know he’s told a joke until you find yourself laughing.”

More often as not, Jones said you’ll find Burrier stopping by Corvallis’ Memories Café following a workday to enjoy a bite and some camaraderie.

“He’s just really a nice guy who is easy to get along with and fun to be around,” Jones said. “He’s a good-natured soul.”

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Reaching out with international artists stacie duce

“We’ve hosted approximately 83 professional artists or groups from all over the world Ten years ago, Monica Grable transitioned during the last 10 years,” she said. “Many from her career as an art teacher to managing are emerging musicians who have gone the new Performing Arts Center at Hamilton on to great success and some are already High School. Working with then-superintenGrammy®-award winning, world-class artists dent Duane Lyons, “We came up with ideas on from a variety of genres who find their way to how the facility could be used by the students our rural stage, much to our delight. I really as well as for performances outside the district do believe that our community deserves – as for the community to enjoy. That was the intent much as any larger metropolitan community – all along.” to have access to the same high-caliber arts as At the time, she was a founding member any audience in our country.” of the Bitterroot Folk Collective with plans to As executive director of the Bitterroot bring artists to the area and translated those Performing Arts Council, Grable works with aspirations into programming for the facility. agents to secure talent and reserve dates – a “In December 2002, we held our first concert process that can take years to materialize. On presented by the Hamilton Performing Arts performance days, she works round the clock Center,” she said. “It was a holiday-themed to host the artists, cook their favorite meal if program by Eden Atwood from Missoula and needed and transport them back and forth to was really well received.” the airport at all hours of the day and night.

Since then, an annual, subscription-driven She and a board of directors oversee a small series of performances developed and respon- staff that helps run the box office and a host of sibility transitioned from the school district to volunteers who help with many tasks. a 501c3 non-profit organization, with a private “Every show, we draw audience members company funding the year of transition.

Ravalli Republic

provided photo

After 10 years of bringing world-class performances to the Bitterroot, BPAC Executive Director Monica Grable said the educational outreach programs with students have been the most gratifying moments of her career

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from a 250-mile radius – as close as the Missoula and Flathead Valleys and as far as Spokane and cities in Idaho and even Helena and Bozeman. People will travel to see a favorite artist and so it really is a boon for local businesses including restaurants and motels,” she said. “The breadth and depth of our programming is pretty diverse and so every audience is unique.”

She said of all her work, “it’s the outreach that’s near and dear to me. I actually consider every program an educational outreach for our audience because most of the artists are new to them and it’s an experience that they might not have chosen if they weren’t a subscriber to the series. I consider every show to be an opportunity to open up the arts to people of all ages.

“But when we have the chance to connect visiting artists with school children, the experience can be life changing for the students and sometimes for the artist as well,” she said. “The experience sticks with them and broadens their world and can increase their interest in the arts in general. When we don’t provide access to the arts, we limit the exposure our children have of the world and in turn their view of their potential and ideas.

“In the case of Hilary Hahn – an artist who is very well-known in her genre – she came to a country school and talked with string students and shared her stories about her music and travels. We brought star power into their classroom and it was unforgettable,” she said.

“I’ll also never forget when we brought the multi-cultural members of Imani Winds to the band room. They chose a student from

each section to play a piece they were working on. They offered suggestions and feedback on posture or the way they played their instrument. Within five to 10 minutes the kids took those artistsuggestions and then played the section of music again. There was such a marked difference with those few changes that the rest of the band busted out laughing in delight.

“The best part was that they were meeting these musicians from New York – all of color, street-talking regular guys wearing regular clothes who played classical music,” she said. “They were inspiring – not only by how they played, but also through simple things like sharing what was on their iPod and planting new ideas for those interested in music.

“At the end of the session, I offered free tickets to any of the students who wanted to attend the concert that evening.” She said.

“Some came to my office and were over-the-moon happy to be able to attend. I think had we offered the tickets without the classroom experience, it would have been an entirely different story.”

As the Bitterroot Performing Arts Council prepares to begin its eleventh season in October, Grable said the educational outreach has been the driving force behind specific grant funding as well as corporate and individual support.

“Entities like GSK want to support the opportunities we offer to local students to connect with high-caliber artists,” she said. “They know that it is important and we are extremely grateful to be able to share.”

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Crazy about Darby’s future stacie duce Ravalli Republic

stacie duce/ravalli republic

Rosie Huckstadt and her husband Gene are admittedly “crazy about Darby” and have done much to improve the aesthetics, business opportunities and tourist traffic in Darby.

DARBY - If you’ve driven through Darby anytime since March, you might have noticed another stretch of Main Street that’s receiving a facelift, thanks to Rosie and Gene Huckstadt. They are owners of the complex of antique shops that line the street on the south end of town and have now purchased the property across the street.

“We have no plans yet, we just got tired of looking at the mess,” Rosie said of the four city lots and three buildings. “It was all in pretty rough shape, so we hired a wonderful painter to fix up the Victorian house with new paint and shutters and we’ve put up a white picket fence. We’ve landscaped and put down sod and established the parking lots. Now all we need is someone to come by with some enthusiasm to create something marvelous for Darby.”

Rosie admits a deep affection for Darby since the day she arrived from Minnesota with her young family in 1978. It wasn’t until the early 1990s after she had married Gene that she started to get involved in revitalizing the town that suffered a series of economic blows with the closing of several lumber mills.

“Gene and I were enjoying our retirement and traveling a lot.

The Darby Clubhouse burned down and for far too long, every time we’d come back home, I’d see that big hole in the ground and want to do something to help rebuild the clubhouse,” she said. “A friend and I started having bake sales to raise money.

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We had one auction where her lemon meringue pie sold for $600.

It was amazing to see the community come together and all the people who helped and finally the clubhouse was rebuilt.

“Soon after the beautiful Darby Library was built, the Darby marshall’s office received a western makeover. Even the Farmer’s State Bank accepted a suggestion to build the new branch with a western theme … and we started to get some flavor back in town with all these wood products,” she said.

The Huckstadts originally bought and remodeled their building complex in 1993 as a home for a Christian school and a restaurant called Old West Steakhouse for Gene’s son.

“When the school moved to the Baptist church, I made the mistake of telling Gene that I knew a little about antiques and so we opened a retail space and a candy store for his daughter who was a wonderful baker,” she said. “We’ve rented to many different businesses over the years and as they closed or moved on to other things, we just kept expanding our antique business into their space and now we have the whole thing.

“But through all the changes, we’ve kept the integrity of the Abby Osburn historic house and built around it. She was the first switchboard operator in Darby in the early 1920s and we’ve kept her home in her honor with the same linoleum and wallpapers in the rooms,” she said. “Many people stop by because of her and her part in Darby’s history.”

They also stop to sample Rosie’s famous fudge and dipped candy. “I became a chocolatier by default,” she said. “When Gene’s daughter moved on, I jumped in and started making candy. We offer 37 types of fudge throughout the seasons of the year and have all kinds of Old West ‘wheels’ and barks and turtles and grizzly paws made with nuts and chocolate. … I always invite people into my kitchen to see the fudge machine and lick the spoon. I love to host groups from the schools and the community.”

Rosie was instrumental in establishing Darby’s first civic club and she’s a dedicated member of the chamber of commerce, serving several terms as president.

“If I was honest, I’d tell you that my dream is to take my dogs and go to the beach,” she said. “But Gene likes projects and he likes to work and so I try to keep up with him instead.”

She said Gene and a friend built the two large signs on either end of Darby that welcome guests and residents to town. “The signs are like gateways to the town and that’s how we look at our business as well. It’s a gateway to the Bitterroot Valley and we want to make sure everyone who comes here feels welcome.”

She said because of geography as people descend from Lost Trail pass, “They are forced by nature and Marshall Rose to slow down in order to get though our town. My vision for Darby is that it’s a place for people to stop, stretch their legs, be able to walk through our community, stop for lunch, buy some gas and just take an hour out of their vacation to smile, eat some fudge and experience something new. It’s been a phenomenal year statistically for the number of tourists coming through the valley and we want to make sure that continues.”

The Huckstadt’s enthusiasm and generosity has been contagious and she’s especially thrilled that more events like Logger Days and rodeos are being held annually.

“We’re just kind of Darby crazy and we want to help others to feel the same way,” she said.

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10 - Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014

Promoting the community LINDSEY GALIPEAU Ravalli Republic

For Russ Lawrence, every day is an opportunity to make a difference.

“I grew up with service as kind of a motif.

I’ve always felt like serving others in my community was important and I’ve always tried to find a way to do that,” he said. “It’s something that’ll always be part of my life.”

Lawrence is a hometown hero in many ways. He and his wife, Jean, owned Chapter One Book Store for 23 years.

While there, they promoted literacy efforts and were always happy to help other local lindsey galipeau/ravalli republic organizations, whether by acting as a box Russ Lawrence is the director and coordinator for the Hamilton Downtown Association and freelance writer for the office for events or making donations.

Ravalli Republic. He loves his job because he can be the small catalyst for big change.

After a two-year stint in the Peace Corps Thank you to our very own Hometown Hero…

Patsy Golay!

Montana Health Care Association Nurse of the Year 2009! Patsy is not only an amazing nurse, she has begun so many different programs, including the monthly birthday dinners for the residents and the gazebo was built in her honor and affectionately named “Patsy’s Place” where we still hold picnics. Patsy Golay has been with us at Valley View Estates since April 1,1971; no fooling! A Native Montana Patsy was born in the still tiny town of Wisdom. She did her nursing practicals in Havre, Montana and moved to Hamilton to join Valley View Estates. Patsy was first on the nursing staff for 10 years and, for a change of pace she was our Activity Director for the next 10 years. She was then lured back into nursing where she has been providing compassionate care ever since. Why has she stayed so long?

Patsy simply says (with her wonderful smile) “Well I just love the residents!” And we all love Patsy!

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Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014 - 11

as a small business development adviser, Lawrence returned to Hamilton and is now director and coordinator of the Hamilton Downtown Association, freelance writer for the Ravalli Republic and self-proclaimed “ham” with heavy involvement in the Hamilton Players. His jobs and hobbies may seem unrelated, but they are all focused on bettering the community.

“I think my job is to be the catalyst, to connect the dots, connect the resources with the person that needs the resources and make things happen in that way,” Lawrence said. “And being an actor is the same thing – connecting the audience with the script and what the author wanted to say. The actor is really the catalyst. You make that happen. You make those connections happen. That’s the joy in it for me.”

But, where does the writing come in?

“I get to shine a spotlight on things that I think are important to the community. It’s a luxury for me to be able to do that,” Lawrence said. “But it’s also a way for me to just try and get up every morning and see what I can to do make it a better place.”

Lawrence was born and raised in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He moved to Hamilton with his wife after earning a degree in forestry at the University of Montana. On a whim, they bought Chapter One and enjoyed every moment of their 23 years there. Lawrence said the bookstore is where he learned the importance of local businesses in a small town and what, ultimately, brought him to where he is now as the HDA coordinator.

“That’s when we started to learn how much difference a locally owned business can make in a community like this; how critical these businesses are to everything that happens here,” he said.

And each day, Lawrence pushes to promote and help the very people who keep the town running. He is proud of the variety of services we have here and hopes that we think locally before travelling or going online to find goods.

“As long as they think about their neighbors and doing business with them, then that’s our job is to kind of keep that top-ofmind awareness,” he said. “Just getting people to think about Hamilton first.”

Lawrence was surprised to hear of his nomination as a hometown hero. Despite his theatre background, he’s not one who lives for applause.

“I like standing backstage and watching something great happen and just enjoying knowing that, maybe, I made one of the initial connections, just feeling like some small part,” he said.

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Supporting community causes perry backus Ravalli Republic

CORVALLIS - On an early February morning in 2013, Doug Mason saw smoke billowing from the garage of a home northeast of Corvallis Instead of simply picking up his telephone and calling for help, he raced to warn the people who might be inside.

Mason beat on locked doors and yelled a warning to the empty house. At one point, he even broke out the front door window to make sure that no one was inside.

Corvallis Fire Chief Jim Knapp commended him afterward.

“It was neat to see a citizen try to help like that,” Knapp said at the time. “While we don’t advocate anyone running into a burning building, his efforts to try to let people know about the fire were appreciated.”

Anyone who knows Mason wouldn’t be surprised by his snap decision to go to someone’s aid.

This native Bitterrooter has been donating his time and energy for years to help people and his community.

As a former commander of the Corvallis American Legion Post 91, Mason has spent countless hours helping out in a wide variety of ways.

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Doug Mason of Corvallis has stepped forward to lead a variety of causes in the Corvallis area.

“Doug has been a faithful and active member of the Corvallis American Legion for many, many years,” said Dominic Farrenkopf, a fellow American Legion officer. “He has served as commander, sergeant at arms, and historian.”

Mason formed a uniformed color guard with professional uniforms to provide a final salute for veterans and their families at funerals.

After a historical bugle with a connection to the Corvallis American Legion Post was discovered in a local family’s home, Mason carefully polished it and then took the time to learn to play the instrument.

Today, at veterans’ funerals around the valley, the local American Legion Post has replaced the old portable stereo system they used to play taps with the real thing, with Mason’s new found bugle expertise.

Mason has put together numerous auctions to raise money for the American Legion. He also went through the proper channels to create a Sons of the American Legion Post.

“He definitely is involved with a lot in the community,” said Edna Nasca, a former American Legion commander. “He works with the Legion, the schools, churches and the veterans.”

Mason has also been heavily involved to ensure Corvallis’ keystone event – the Memorial Day Parade – goes off without a hitch each and every year.

“We have a committee that works together to make sure it works as well as possible,” Nasca said. “We all sit down and figure out what needs to get done and then we get it done. When I served as commander, Doug was my go-to man. I knew that whatever I needed, he could get it done and done right.”

Beyond all that, Nasca said Mason is good family man.

“He’s at every single event that his kids are involved in,” she said.

“I just don’t know where he finds the time.”

Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014 - 13

Helping the success of the animal shelter stacie duce Ravalli Republic

stacie duce/ravalli republic

Sue McCormack receives kisses from Emmy Lou, a loveable dog currently available for adoption at the Bitter Root Humane Society.

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When Dave and Sue McCormack retired and moved to the Bitterroot Valley in 2003, one of their highest priorities was to make a difference in their new community, “and so we volunteer,” Sue said.

For 10 years, Sue has served on the board of directors for the Bitter Root Humane Association. And while she recently stepped down as president, she continues to contribute. Her latest moniker is “goddess of the kitchen on Mondays” and she loves it.

“We have six other ‘goddesses of the kitchen’ at the shelter – one for every day of the week,” she said. Her Monday duties include washing the food and water trays as well as laundering towels, bedding and blankets.

“That allows the staff to spend more time with the animals, which should be their first priority,” she said.

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Bessenyey, the heir of the Daly estate. The current shelter was constructed in 1982 and has received a fair share of expansions and upgrades – many during the last 10 years thanks to the dedication of Sue, the staff and a host of volunteers and donors.

“One of our long-term goals is to replace the building,” Sue said. “It’s really been at the top of my list since I arrived, but that’s a daunting prospect to raise that kind of money. We have plans, but it won’t be cheap. As overwhelming as it is, we really do have to keep that goal at the forefront since so much around here is held together by spit and baling wire.”

Thanks in part to Sue’s leadership, other more attainable goals have been reached in recent years, “Because of our spay and neuter events, the populations have decreased significantly,” she said. “We also adopt animals much faster than before thanks to social media. … The shelter has 2,500 Facebook friends, which increases our exposure and allows us to advertise those ready for adoption. We’ve also been able to fine tune our process for matching the best families for individual animals so the adoption lasts.”

In addition to washing dishes on Mondays, Sue serves on several committees and oversees efforts to increase the association’s endowment and donor base as well as maintain the database and to create a quarterly newsletter.

“I still go to board meetings and make myself available for advice,” she said. “The animals are my first love and so I give what I can.”

She volunteers for the shelter about 50 hours per month and helps with special events like “Bark ‘n the Park” as well as the association’s booth at the Ravalli County Fair.

She could also be called the “cookie lady” since she often bakes cookies for the staff and offers biscuits and kind words to the dogs in their kennels. She is quick to point out that many people – staff and volunteers alike – are the reason for the shelter’s success.

“I’d like to see more people volunteer time in our community,” Sue said. “Not everyone can give financially, but we’ve all got a little time to give or time to support the events that all the nonprofit organizations host. Money is wonderful but physical support is just as important especially at the shelter.”

Sue McCormack was nominated as a hometown hero because of her dedicated work at the shelter but she could have received similar accolades for her volunteerism on the board of directors for both the Daly Mansion and the Hamilton Players as well.

“We keep busy, but it’s a good kind of busy,” she said.

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Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014 - 15

Al Mitchell followed up his interview for our Hometown Heroes publication with his own list of nominees:

LINDSEY GALIPEAU/RAVALLI REPUBLIC

Al Mitchell serves as the Director of the Chamber of Commerce, Hamilton City Council member and owner of Hamilton art supply store, Paper Clip. Mitchell is always looking for ways to improve the valley and willing to listen to gripes, comments or ideas.

Serving the city of Hamilton and more LINDSEY GALIPEAU Ravalli Republic

A typical day for Al Mitchell is a juggling act. He has three jobs to keep aloft – owning Hamilton’s art supply store, Paper Clip, serving as a Hamilton City Council member and, finally, acting as director of the Bitterroot Valley Chamber of Commerce.

Sometimes it gets tricky, but each is equally important to make the show worthwhile.

“I think any time you get into business or want to be a part of the community, you have to give back to the community,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell grew up in the Bitterroot Valley, went to college for business administration at the University of Montana and, besides four years in the Coast Guard, has worked in the state his whole life. He bought Paper Clip in 1988, about a year after his good friend and original owner of the store, passed away in a plane

“I would nominate Wayne Hedman, former owner of Bitterroot Drug. Wayne was active in nearly everything in Hamilton for decades and is still active on several nonprofit boards.

“Steve Fullerton has been associated with KLYQ Radio ever since his high school days in the late 1960s. Again, Steve has been active with several groups acting as master of ceremony, auctioneer, newsman or just information central for 50 years.

“I’m sure there are many other deserving folks, but I would like to put in a plug for my brother, Marion Mitchell. He has been the government teacher at Hamilton High for 35-plus years. This will be his last year of teaching seniors to become responsible citizens, as well as critical thinkers. Any one of these individuals is much more deserving of your recognition, than I.”

16 - Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014

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crash. Mitchell helped his friend’s wife in the shop before she chose to sell.

“It wasn’t really a good way to get into business, but that was just one of those things. That’s how it happened,” he said.

Since that time, Mitchell has constantly made himself available to serve the city and the valley by sitting on the school board, Bitterroot College board, Hamilton City Council and acting as treasurer, president and now director of the Chamber of Commerce. Mitchell was even a driving force behind the Bitter Root Brew Fest, serving as a chairman for the committee the first 9 years.

“You put in a lot of extra hours sometimes,” Mitchell said.

“But a lot of it is interelated. There’s things that I do here [at the Chamber] that give me perspective on the council or on my business and likewise those relate back to this.”

Those extra hours don’t faze Mitchell in the least. He is always happy to talk with people, share his knowledge, explain why certain decisions were made or hear any ideas.

“Whatever I’ve been on, it’s always been a position where, to make good decisions, you need input from the folks out there,” he said. “I still believe in local business and all of us getting together and solving problems together as a community.”

Mitchell has two goals he hopes to accomplish for the valley.

The first is simply to get more people involved in the Chamber.

The second stems from his own experience growing up and living in the valley as well as raising his three boys here.

“It’s a good place to raise a family. It’s a good place to have kids going through the school system,” he said. “It’d be nice if we could get some jobs so that more young adults can come back here and have businesses.”

Mitchell was surprised at his nomination as hometown hero, naming many others he would put in his place, including teachers, business owners and the late legislator, Dale Berry.

“He was my mentor and, people like that, there are a lot of them in the valley,” Mitchell said. “They’re good role models for young people.”

Mitchell appreciates everyone who has helped him along the way and hopes he can give back to them. “Without the folks I work with, I wouldn’t have any of the success I’ve had,” he said.

Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014 - 17

Donna Weidow brings out the ‘happy’ in Hamilton MICHELLE McCONNAHA Ravalli Republic

PROVIDED PHOTO

Donna Lisa Weidow, owner of BitterSweet Salon in Hamilton, is a hometown hero who is always paying it forward. “I look up to Donna for her strength and her enormous heart,” said Jennifer Waldo, who went through chemotherapy twice. “I’ve never met someone who is so positive and willing to help anyone in need.”

Donna Lisa Weidow, owner of BitterSweet Salon in Hamilton, is a hometown hero who is always paying it forward.

One of Donna’s friends (who prefers to remain anonymous) said: “Donna is the most giving, heart-filled lady I know. Her calming touch helps soothe any soul, she has taken families under her wing - providing and comforting them. She raised the money and paid for an entire funeral service for a family in need and then provided the family with food and gift cards.”

Dominic Farrenkopf, director of community life at Sapphire Lutheran Homes, said Donna was the sponsor for the Sapphire Lutheran Homes Mammo Man in the Sprinkle Pink competition in 2013.

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“With her encouragement and support, Lee Goldman and I managed to raise the most money and were awarded with the prized pink cowboy hat “crown.” We are ready to pass the tiara on to this year’s winner and focus on Sprinkle Pink school programs, while Donna will undoubtedly be sponsoring another Mammo man.”

Tammy Munty, Donna’s sister, said, “She’s an amazing person with a huge heart – she’ll help anybody.”

Jill Stevens agreed and added: “She’s completely amazing.

They don’t have to be somebody important, they just have to be.

She’s probably the most giving person I know.

“Donna always runs support for breast cancer awareness.

During October this place is major pink and there are always Mammo men in here.”

Paige Swenson said: “Donna is constantly doing things for high schools, support groups – you can almost guarantee that is someone walks in here looking for a donation, Donna’s going to do it.

She’s the No. 1 fan of everything – especially if it’s a kid.”

“She’s that giving, that selfless, she is just wonderful,” said Stevens. “She is always giving and tells us how proud she is of us - she’s awesome.”

Jen Waldo went through cancer twice and calls Donna her personal hero and her pink angel.

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“I look up to Donna for her strength and her enormous heart,” said Waldo. “I’ve never met someone who is so positive, and willing to help anyone in need. She has gone beyond the call to help raise money and awareness for breast cancer and other types of cancer. Donna bent over backwards to raise my spirits, support my family and help financially. She found the Penguin Cold Cap Program, which saved me from losing my hair from chemotherapy. Donna attended my chemo sessions, laughed with me, cried with me and always kept in touch with me to make sure I was smiling!”

Amy James-Linton, marketing director for Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital, said, “Donna has an extra special soul and is a hometown hero!”

“She always has something nice to say, will support you in her own unique way and spreads goodness every day,” said JamesLinton. “Just thinking about Donna brings smile to my face; her inspiring attitude, abundance of energy and zest for life is so contagious. Congratulations Donna, you bring out the “happy” in our community!”

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Ravalli Republic, Sunday, August 31, 2014 - 19

Sapphire Lutheran’s heroes Dorothy Allen General Occupation: Retired

What makes her a hero: Dorothy Allen is an active volunteer for many organizations in Hamilton. Dorothy has volunteered many hours at The Hamilton Senior Center and Ravalli County Museum. Dorothy currently volunteers for Sapphire Lutheran Homes as a sundry clerk. Dorothy keeps a tight schedule and accurate till as she sells personal items to staff residents and visitors of Sapphire in our “quaint country store”. Dorothy’s eagerness to “help out wherever she can” is shown through all of her actions.

Nominated by: Dominic Farrenkopf, Director of Community Life, Sapphire Lutheran Homes

Hazel Kelly General Occupation: Retired

What makes her a hero: Hazel is a foster grandparent at Washington school where she listens to children read, assists them with their math and their workbooks. She also assists the teachers in any way that she can. Hazel is embarking on her 14th year of serving in this capacity. Hazel’s gentle nature and caring heart make her a perfect fit for this vital role she plays at Washington School.

Nominated by: Dominic Farrenkopf, Director of Community Life, Sapphire Lutheran Homes

Joe Kerr General Occupation: Department Head of Maintenance at Sapphire Lutheran Homes What makes him a hero: Joe Kerr is an active memMaintenance Staff at Sapphire Lutheran Homes ber of the Hamilton Fire Department. As one of What makes him a hero: many committed fireman, Joe has shown his dedicaLee Goldman is a youth group leader and tion with ten years of service to our community. Joe mentor at his church in Hamilton. Lee reaches and his fellow firemen respond to emergency callsout to teenagers and guides them through the both day and night. Joe is also one of five Hamilton turbulent waters of adolescence with interactive firefighters participating in the Portland, Oregon programs. Lee is also a talented musician. He Firefighter Stair Climb Challenge in September. is an inspirational rap artist and uses his music This stair climb challenge will benefit the fight against cystic fibrosis. Joe was to educate and encourage healthy life choices part of a team that coordinated a benefit BBQ and raffle to raise money for his for the youth of Hamilton. Lee appeared as a cause. Joe raised over $900 through that event. Joe is a leader at Sapphire “Mammo Man” in 2013 to support the Aid For Lutheran Homes and an inspiration to those who serve with him.

Mammography Fund through Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital. His charNominated by: Dominic Farrenkopf, Director of Community Life, Sapphire acter was MC Mammo. Lee wrote and performed his original song “It’s Lutheran Homes Time” to raise money for the fund. Lee raised $2,589.83 for the fund. Lee is a model citizen and a shining example to the youth of our community.

Sherill Williams General Occupation: Nominated by: Dominic Farrenkopf, Director of Community Life, Assisted Living Director at Sapphire Lutheran Sapphire Lutheran Homes Homes What makes her a hero: As the Assisted Living Director of Sapphire Ruth Hazelton General Occupation: Lutheran Homes, Sherill Williams has the Retired opportunity to enrich the lives of not only the What makes her a hero: Ruth is an active residents of Sapphire, but their families as well. volunteer for Habitat for Humanity of the Daily resident care concerns often consist of Bitterrot and The Bitterroot Valley Chamber many pleasant moments scattered throughout of Commerce. She also participates in the bell the day.

But situations can arise that require difficult decisions to be choir and teaches Sunday school at her church made for resident health and safety. With her caring heart and noble in Hamilton. Ruth’s vibrant personality and her mind, Sherill guides her staff, the residents and their families through zeal for helping others, drives her forward and these golden (and occasionally challenging) chapters of life. Sherill is gives her the gumption necessary for her to currently enrolled at The Bitterroot College pursuing a nursing degree remain so active. Ruth’s generosity and conthat she will use to further enrich the lives of those she serves. cern for others is evident through her sweet smile and lilting laughter.

Nominated by: Dominic Farrenkopf, Director of Community Life, Nominated by: Dominic Farrenkopf, director of Community Life, Sapphire Lutheran Homes Sapphire Lutheran Homes Lee Goldman General Occupation:

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