Briefs from the Ovando town meeting

The yearly Ovando Town meeting was held Tuesday April 18 at the Ovando Gym. There were updates from 11 community groups. Notable updates included the Fire Department, Town Park, Blackfoot Challenge, Sheriff's Department, upcoming bicycle events and school news.

Fire Chief Monte McNally reported that there are 18 active volunteer firemen and five Emergency Medical Responders (EMR). A battery-powered "Jaws of Life" was obtained as a gift from Blackfoot Telecommunications and a six wheel utility vehicle was made possible through a Missoula Electric Co-op gift.

"Don't be shy to call 911 first," said John Valiton, Volunteer firefighter EMR. "Time spent calling around to neighbors' for ideas is time wasted. We would rather be called and come check things out."

An electric bear fence will soon be installed around the Ovando Park. All the materials have been donated and work is awaiting the ground to thaw. The park will also be used for emergency medical helicopter landings instead of Trixi's parking lot. People are cautioned to stay out of the area if there are flashing lights from emergency vehicles.

Seth Wilson, Executive Director of the Blackfoot Challenge, reported that the carcass removal program is in its 20th year and has been successful in minimizing bear activity around ranch buildings in the area. The range rider program has been in existence since 2007 and will continue.

"We want to thank the land owners and residents for 30 years of the Blackfoot Challenge," said Wilson. "All of you help make a community-based organization happen."

Powell County Sheriff, Gavin Roselles answered questions about the speed limit through Ovando. Residents feel that the 25 mile per hour limit is too fast with all the visitors and bicyclists in town in the summer. Speed bumps and an electric speed warning sign were mentioned. Roselles said the situation is being discussed withthe Powell County Commissioners.

"I want to let you know that there have been burglaries and criminal mischief cases," said Roselles. "So take the keys out of your vehicles and lock up your valuables."

Ovando can expect bicyclists in June. The Dusty Banditas, a women's gravel and dirt riding group, will be staying in Ovando and planning 40 and 85 mile rides in the area on June 2.

This will be followed by the Tour Divide. Starting June 9 from Banff, Alberta, Tour Divide frontrunners could pedal into Ovando by June 11-12.

The Ovando Museum is ready to open Memorial Day Weekend. A new grizzly hide from Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks will be on display as well as the latest Ovando history book by Angela Townsend. Museum hours are most weekends 11 a.m.-3 p.m. in the summer and by appointment. Call Barb McNally 406-793-5685 or Howie Fly 406-793-5880 to make an appointment.

Ovando School third-eighth graders and two teachers recently returned from a trip to Washington D.C. Upcoming school events are May 15 Poetry Brunch, May 24 May Day Tea and kindergarten graduation, May 24 Eighth grade graduation.

"The Ovando School greatly appreciates the community support to go to Washington D.C.," said Angela Williams, pre-K and teacher's aide.