In 1982, two young seniors at Montana State University started dating. They had known of each other growing up in the Mission Valley, she in Bigfork and he on the family farm outside of Pablo, but it wasn’t until college that they officially met. The next year, Roger and Kathy Starkel would get married and begin their life and business together.

“It’s been nothing but fun since,” Roger said.

Nearly 40 years later, the Starkels are about to be the recipients of the Ronan Area Chamber of Commerce’s ‘Producer of the Year’ award. While he still says the award is for “old guys,” Roger said he and Kathy are honored for the recognition.

Yet, this achievement pales in comparison to the innovations and advancements Roger and Kathy have brought to the agriculture industry.

Dalen Siech wears many hats.  In the course of a week he is an artist, a philanthropist, a photographer, and a middle school student.

Though he is just 10 years old, Siech’s photography has started getting the attention of judges and professionals alike.  This spring Siech entered three of his pieces in a fine art photography contest in Hot Springs along with notable professionals from the area.  All three of his works won ribbons, and his photo of aspens from the Grand Canyon was a finalist in the competition.

Humble and timid, Siech’s whole demeanor changes when he talks about taking photos.  A smile spreads across his face when he recalls the trials and tribulations of getting the perfect shot of birds in flight or lying on his stomach to capture a sunflower in bloom.