Ellington

Soccer Stevens

Shyla Stevens shot on goal comes up short second half vs Stevensville.

Soccer Schnackenberg

Freshman midfielder Zander Peterson, 14, congratulates a jubilant Jason Schnackenberg after the latter scored his hat trick against Stevensville. 

Soccer Opland

Senior midfielder Breanna Opland controls the ball in the Lady Loggers tie to the Lady Yellowjackets.

Soccer Davidson

Johnny Davidson first half action vs Stevensville.

Soccer Kyle

Ceara Kyle controls the ball vs Stevensville.

Radio Discussion

Lincon Conty Sheriff’s Department’s Kirk Kraft, left, listens as County Emergency Management Director Vic White addresses Commissioners about the change from wide-band to narrow-band, a change mandated by the federal government. Looking on is Emergency Management Assistant Lisa Oedewaldt. Kraft oversees the Sheriff’s Department radio system.

Local Band

The Sheldon Mountain Boys, from left, Mark Kroll, Dave Blackburn, Bill Cuskelly and Rod Snyder, have released a new album, “Thirty Years on The Mountain” as a celebration of decades of bluegrass music.

DEQ Hearing

DNRC’s Mark Peck, left, Rod Samdahl and Chris Cronin of DEQ address concerns, as Elizabeth Smith, right, looks on.

Column Bear Creek Road

One of the views from the end of the gravel road off Bear Creek Road.

Bridge Inspection

Montana Department of Transportation Bridge Inspector Kurt Maart, lower, left at end of boom in bucket, gives the Kootenai River Bridge its bi-annual inspection on Wednesday afternoon.

Freshman-heavy team leaves doubts for Loggers' success

Logger soccer player wanted: experience a must!

'Tarasik Park' preys on quarterbacks

It’s a good bet prep football enthusiasts are going to stumble — at least at first — when they attempt to pronounce Logger junior lineman Tarasik Krisanov’s name. 

Winslow throws two TDs in 14-6 win

Jared Winslow had a busy night in the Libby Loggers’ football team 14-6 opening win against Bonners Ferry.

Police Blotter: Aug. 12 - Aug. 19

Ski Patrol members practice lift-chair rescues, train for coming season

Ski patrol rescue members are a little like an insurance policy: You really don’t give them much thought until you need them, and then you’re glad to have them.

Plan to create fuel breaks may have some opposition

With fire season approaching its apex, and Lincoln County mercifully safe from the worst of the season’s fires, Ed Levert hasn’t taken a break.

Ranger District opens roads Sept. 1 for firewood collection

In an ongoing effort to meet the firewood needs of the local community, the Libby District plans to make available firewood cutting areas that will be open.  

First Birthday: Buckner

Jordyn Denise Buckner celebrated her first birthday Aug. 25, 2012. Ron and Caroline Buckner are her parents and Bradley and Nikolas Buckner are her brothers.

Justyn Mack finishes training

Army Pvt. Justyn Mack, a Troy High School graduate, has completed his basic training at Fort Jackson, S.C.

William C. Kirschbaum, 88, of Libby

William C. Kirschbaum, 88, passed away at his home in Libby on Monday, Aug. 27, 2012.  

Mary Ann Carr Holder, 86, of Libby

Mary Ann Carr Holder passed away peacefully Monday, Aug. 27, 2012, at her home in Libby.  

Edith C. Kair, 94, of Libby

Edith C. Kair, 94, of Libby passed away Saturday Aug. 25, 2012, at Libby Care Center.  

Mildred E. Johnson, 75, of Libby

Mildred Ellen Johnson, 75, a lifelong resident of Libby passed away Friday, Aug. 24, 2012, at Libby Care Center.  

Klepfer updates Montanore Project, cites long legal process

Consultant says the process moving along in positive way

Working toward approval of the Montanore Mine has been a long process, but Eric Klepfer, the contractor overseeing the environmental aspects of the process, can see the end to the process.

Boiler project discussed at former mill site

Device could be used to generate electricity, eliminate contamination

For nearly a decade, parties have been playing hot potato with the 80,000-pound boiler behind city hall.

Worker loses hand on the job

City worker injury involves his left hand

A Libby City worker has lost his left hand in an on-the-job accident, was hospitalized and is now recovering from the trauma at home.

Hauler dies in accident

Driver overcorrects steering, loses control of rig north of Libby

A 49-year-old north Lincoln County man was killed Friday in a one-vehicle accident that a reconstruction specialist believes was caused by the overcorrection of the driver after drifting off the roadway.

Old Photo 8-29

Drawing A Crowd Todd Berget, Libby High School aide, puts the finishing brush strokes on the Logger logo highlighting Harlow's Bus Service activities coach. Bus is part of new fleet serving the school district's transportation needs. Watching Todd are Harlow Hageness, president; Merry Thompson, driver; Bill Donahue, school superintendent; Nancy Sagen, driver; Dan Zachreson, Libby co-manager; Jeremy, Hageness, Libby co-manager; and Jason Hageness, vice president. Chuck Blair photo from the Sept. 2, 1992, files of The Western News

Lewis

Sophomore keeper Lewis Brossman robs Polson's Randy James of a goal in first half action Thursday.

Ski Patrol Rescue

Ski Patrol members on Saturday rescued Kristen Chaboya of Noxon, a friend of a ski patrol member.

Ski Patrol Group

Ski Patrol members and friends who participated Saturday in the rescue experience include, from front left, John Head, Jack Zearfoss, Michelle Carlson and Gary Leonard. In the second row are Sarah Murphy, Steve Bryant, Doug Crum and Lynn Haggarty. In the back row from left, are Tom O’Bleness, Larry Hilderman, Karen Alexander, Adam Kirschenmann, Rasmus Fredborg, Bill Pepper and Mike Giesey.

Football Krisanov T

Junior 6-4 200 lb OL/DL Tarasik Krisanov

Football Krisanov

Tarasik Krisanov tackling Bonners Ferry's Josh Pluid in third quarter.

Football Bowers

QB Christian Trocke tackled by Josh Bowers, center, Skyler Higareda, right and Bryce Gustin, second quarter.

Football Brown

Taraski Krisanov and Dalton Brown go high and low to tackle Badger Bryan Yeomans in first quarter action Saturday night.

Loggers stem late comeback to beat Bonners Ferry 14-6

A last second tackle by Loggers QB/DB Jared Winslow saved a potential tying score in Saturday night's opener.

Huckleberry Fest Winners

There were two Libby winners at the Huckleberry Festival Dessert Contest in Trout Creek recently. Emma Gruber, left, won first prize in the youth category for her fresh huckleberry pie and Doreen Gruber (Emma’s mother) won second prize in the adult category for her huckleberry-lemon layered cake. Both entered for the first time this year.

Seniors Day Proclamation

Libby Mayor Doug Roll signed a proclamation Tuesday at Libby Care Center commemorating National Senior Citizens Day as Aug. 21. Pictured with Roll, at left, is Jerry Duncan, a three-month resident, Cathy Ann Jenkins, RN and executive director of the center, and Clarence Lippert, at right. The ceremony at Libby Care Center was just one of thousands throughout the country Tuesday recognizing the contributions of America’s senior citizens to the nation.

Libby Senior Center Menu - September

Dinners are served at 5 p.m. – Tuesday and Friday.

State jobless rate increases; county rate drops two-tenths

While the state unemployment rate increased slightly last month to 6.4 percent, joblessness in Lincoln County fell two-tenths of a percent to 12.6 percent in July.

Lt. Governor Candidate

Gen. John Walsh (Ret.), Democratic candidate for lieutenant governor, meets with members of Lincoln County’s Democrats last week. Walsh was a Brigadier General in Iraq.

Hank Taylor McAfee

Hank Taylor McAfee, son of Erin Moe and Sean McAfee of Libby, was born Aug. 15, 2012, at 3:01 p.m.

Birth: Sawyer Medlinger

Sawyer Medlinger, son of Melessa Keefer and Ryan Medlinger of Libby, was born Aug. 10, 2012, at 1:30 p.m.

Birth: Maddox Jas Roby

Maddox Jas Roby, son of Sadie and Jason Roby of Libby, was born Aug. 10, 2012, at 1:37 p.m.

Birth: Victoria Grace Nixon

Victoria Grace Nixon, daughter of Cherish and Douglas Nixon of Libby, was born at 5:45 p.m. Aug. 16, 2012.

Frances G. Smith 51, of Troy

Frances Gail Smith, 51, died on Saturday, Aug. 18, 2012, at her home in Troy.

Charlotte Norman, 52, formerly of Troy

Charlotte Norman died June 27, 2012, in New Jersey. 

Vieona E. Harma, 97, of Libby

Vieona E. Harma, 97, passed away Sunday, August 19, 2012 at Libby Care Center in Libby.  

Stinger Welding is hit with a federal tax lien

Stinger Welding, Inc., the Coolidge, Ariz.,-based bridge-builder with an operation in Libby, has been hit with a tax lien from the federal government for $177,637.

People Profile: Carolyn McBride

Recognition: Quilter of the Year — KV Quilt Guild

CVFSA dissolved by figures

Insufficient local signatures doom effort to save agency

The Cabinet View Fire Service Area is no more, and despite the formal announcement that came at 11:33 a.m. Wednesday, the agency’s demise actually occurred on Aug. 13, because the number of signatures on the submitted petition was determined to be less than needed.

Board OKs budget; meal cost hiked

   Troy School Board unanimously approved to raise school breakfast and lunches by a quarter to help erase a debt of $46,000 from last year’s meals.

Trojans to battle a rigorous schedule

The Trojan football team gets no relief after last year’s nightmare schedule caused Troy to start the season 0-6 before recovering against its last two opponents.

Ostrem-Johnston reaches 20 years at helm

In her 20th year as head coach of Libby’s volleyball team, Cindy Ostrem-Johnston has to let go of last year’s disappointing 4-11 record to battle back with an experienced team.

Girls Soccer team has big steps to take

A winless 2011 campaign hasn’t dampened hopes to improve

After a hard-luck 2011 campaign with an inexperienced Lady Loggers soccer team, head coach Joseph Cik returns for his second year with a starting 11 that is a little older, wiser, and, hopefully, can shrug off last year’s 0-9-2 record.

Loggers hope new offense will barrel over Badgers in debut

When a football team is smaller than its opponents, it must get creative to avoid being clobbered.

Soccer Team

The Lady Loggers soccer team smiles during practice at the Plummer Center. Despite a winless 2011 season, the team has high hopes, and will rely heavily on defense to stay competitive with Kalispell-area teams.

Joe Cik

Second-year coach Joe Cik watches as his girls prepare for a game of knockout, a handling exercise. Senior forwards Elly Webster and Sarah Nash, along with midfielders Callan Peel and Breanna Opland will provide much of the scoring for the Lady Loggers.

PP McBride

Quilter of the Year, Carolyn S. McBride

Gift of 115 chairs aids Nordicfest

Sometimes wishes are granted, and they come without being solicited.

C. Agnes Luchini, 90, formerly of Troy

Catharine Agnes (Robins) Luchini, 90, passed away on Aug. 10, 2012.

Slash-pile fire battled by crews

USFS firefighters respond to ‘Tom’ fire

U.S. Forest Service and Libby Volunteer Fire Department crews on Sunday responded to a slash-pile fire just off Snowshoe Road, limiting the blaze before it spread extensively to the surrounding timber.

Classics highlight stroll up 'The Gut', Ignite the Nites Results

Car Show brings an estimated $270,000 to town, officials say

Cars, trucks, motorcycles and those interesting Rat Rods lined the curbs of Mineral Avenue on Saturday for Ignite the Nites, one of the biggest shows in the Northwest that can only be described as a huge success.

Libby Gun Show

Gun Show participant Ron Kelly reaches to complete a transaction Saturday with Ken French of Troy during the event at Libby’s Memorial Center. The two-day event began Saturday morning and ran Sunday as well. Kelly is credited with bringing the gun shows to Libby in 1990. Tim McNair, standing in the background, watched the transaction.

Police Blotter: Aug. 3 - Aug. 14

New ACC devices aid in patient interaction

Imagine not being able to convey even the simplest message to your loved ones; not being able to tell people what you want to eat or drink, that you do or don’t like something, that you are in pain, or even that you love them.  

SJLH Auxiliary continues giving

Provides 5,459 hours; $13,750

The mission of the St. John’s Lutheran Hospital Auxiliary is to support St. John’s Lutheran Hospital with its time, talent, and the purchase of equipment.  

Parent, student orientation day is scheduled for Aug. 27

Libby Middle/High School would like to invite all parents and students who will be seventh- and ninth- graders this year, as well as new students, to an “Open House” that will help orientate students to their new environment. 

The Le Tour de Koocanusa: Through the eyes of its organizers

The gradual erosion of our freedom, liberties is an abomination, Payne writes

Touting an Eagle Project

Life Boy Scout Patrick Faulkner with Troop 71 addresses the Libby School Board on Monday seeking permission to renovate the pavilion at the former Asa Wood School. The project helps hone a Scout’s leadership talents as he must arrange funding, volunteers and then oversee the project. Board members Amy Fantozzi and Les Nelson are also pictured. The board unanimously approved the project.

Libby Legacy Project will educate public about city's history slated for Friday afternoon, Sept. 7

The Libby Legacy Project is coming to a lecture session near you.

Birth: Kaya Lynn Blow

Kaya Lynn Blow, daughter of Brian Blow and Jessica Carter of Avondale, Ariz., was born July 13, 2012, in Phoenix, Ariz.

Birth: Louis Patrick Able

Louis Patrick Able, son of Kaetlyn Wilcox and Charles Able of Libby, was born at Lavender & Roses Birth Center on July 19, 2012. 

Birthday: Mason Jay Bache

Mason Jay Bache celebrated his first birthday Aug. 16, 2012. Chris and Tracy Bache are his parents, and Parker and Bridger are his brothers.

Birth: Jaxon Smith

Jaxon Smith, son of Heidi and Ross Smith of Libby, was born Aug. 6.

Birth: Ariah Ellenore Pennock

Ariah Ellenore Pennock, daughter of Amy Pennock and Derek Ashely of Troy, was born Aug. 7.

Wedding: Dankert-Johnson

Jessica Lynn Dankert and Travis Paul Johnson were married June 9, 2012, at Fort Lesley J. McNair in Washington D.C.

VFW prepares benches for park

At the Troy City Council meeting Wednesday, John Brown, Troy’s former mayor, announced the VFW Community Projects group was nearing completion on benches to be placed near the pavilion at Roosevelt Park. 

Overtime presents problem for Troy's new budget

In Charles Evans’ first official meeting back as Troy’s City Attorney, it ultimately wasn’t necessary for him to be there.

Trustees OK $9M '13 budget

Tally reflects 1.36 percent increase over 2012 figures

Libby District 4 School Board of Trustees on Monday approved a $9.495 million budget for 2012-’13 school year that reflects a 1.36 percent increase over the previous and allowed for the 1 percent raise for employees.

People Profile: Bruce Vincent

Old Photo 8-22

Hitting the Sled The Libby High School Logger football team began twice-a-day practices this week under the watchful eyes of new coach Wayne Baker. The Loggers open the 1992 season on Sept. 4 at St. Maries, Idaho. Roger Morris photo from the Aug. 19, 1992, files of The Western News.

Ignite Scofield

Gigi Scofield, left, and her grandson Peyton Scofield, marvel at Mineral Avenue's parade of show cars Friday evening.

Ignite Tempel

Rod Tempel checks the interior of a custom 1946 International belonging to Mike and Fran Coyne of Nobleford, Alberta.

Ignite McMillan

Vance McMillan and Jeanette Fincher of Kalispell lay rubber Friday night in a 1941 Chevy pickup.

Ignite Flames

A contestant in the Flame Throwing contest lights up Mineral Avenue on Friday night. Cody Broyles of Hayden, Idaho, driving a 1929 Nash Rat Rod, won the contest.

Ignite Johnson

Ron Johnson’s freshly painted 1953 Willys Aero Ace.

Ignite Dawson

The 1973 Dodge Challenger belonging to Wauneta Dawson of Bonners Ferry got a lot of looks Saturday.

Ignite Dondaneau

Red, stop...green, go...yellow, go real fast!

Ignite Arvidson

There were many admirers of Jay Arvidson's 1965 Cobra.

Ignite Blackwell

Bill Blackwell, left, of Moyie Springs, explains the finer points of his 1948 Midget race car Saturday during the car show.

Ignite XKE Jag

A 1971 Jaguar XKE turned heads during the cruising event on Friday night.

Ignite Schikora Winner

Grace Ratala presented Bill Schikora his ribbon in the sports compact category.

Ignite People's Choice Winner

Lynn and Susie Main of Spokane Valley, Wash., stand with Igniters announcer Gary Rantala, right, on Saturday after winning the Peoples’ Choice Award for their 1929 Ford Sedan Delivery. The candy brandy-wine colored sedan featured ghost flames.  

Ignite Pedal Car Winner

Cobin Seath, 3, was the only one to win a ride at the Car show. Cobin won the Classic pedal car.

Ignite People's Choice

The 1929 Ford Sedan Delivery which won people's choice. The candy brandy-wine colored sedan featured ghost flames.  

Ignite NTS Award

Dwain and Jessie Smith, of Lethbridge, Alberta, won the N.T.S. award with their 1950 Chevy Pickup.

Ignite No Fumes

Hear to evil, smell no evil. One of Ignite the Nites’ youngest guests took precautions around the noisy, smelly cars that ripped up and down Mineral.

Igniters Cranbrook Elvis

John (Elvis) and Joan Poweska of Cranbrook, British Columbia, enjoyed a dance Friday evening.

Ignite Flame Thrower

Flamethrowers on Mineral.

Igniters Overview

Looking north down Mineral Ave.

Car Show

The car show, looking south on Mineral.

Burnout Keith

Keith Dondaneau burns rubber in the burnout contest.

Burnout 2

Keith Dondaneau from Golden, B.C. in his T-bucket.

Tour Three

Atop the Rexford bridge

Tour One

Food Station

One Yr Old Bache

Mason Jay Bache

Nordic

During the past 28 years, Libby's annual NordicFest has drawn crowds from as far away as Canada and states all across America. It is a popular three day event that offers delicious Scandinavian food, exciting games, lively music, a colorful parade, and other activities that inspire, teach and celebrate all things Nordic, past and present. Included in the activities is the 25th Annual Libby International Fjord Horse Show. Les Nelson, a board member for NordicFest says, "With all the events that are scheduled, the funds can only go so far in providing the kind of experience that we hope everyone can come and enjoy." "Despite living in a small town, the community has shown extensive support. The challenge is that you want to plan big, but the drawback is that financially you are milling from the same resources." In an effort to help meet the challenges of Nordicfest, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints donated 115 chairs to the NordicFest organization. This donation brought tears of joy to one board member who explained that they would no longer have to rent chairs. That funding has been redirected toward other events at NordicFest. In response to the chair donation by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Les Nelson stated, "It is a real asset. We are very grateful for all the support we get."

Heroes Stuckey

Sheriff Roby Bowe, left, presenting plaque to Tim Stuckey, right, for saving the life of Danielle Faris, center.

Heroes Danielle

Sheriff Roby Bowe and Danielle Faris

New SJLH Doctors

A reception for two of St. John’s Lutheran Hospital doctors on Wednesday was held at the hospital. In the photo above, Marketing Director KC Hoyer, left, stand swith Drs. Raymond Zurcher, Nicole Benz and Brad Black. Zurcher, who is certified in emergency medicine, and Benz, who specializes in internal medicine, are the two latest additions. Dr. Black is nationally known for his expertise in treating patients with asbestosis. The reception was held in the Leigh Lake Room, just inside the hospital’s main entrance.

Birth Able

Louis Patrick Able

Eighth-grader wins Runnerfell shirt design

The winning artist for 2012’s Youth Runnerfell race was Kaylene Hudson, who was in eighth grade at Libby Middle last year.

Liquidation ends; conversion to Shopko under way under way

Shopko on Thursday said  the liquidation sale in Libby has ended and the store conversion process from Pamida to Shopko Hometown will begin next week.

Kootenai Falls Concession

Dorian Boling waited on customers Saturday at the Trail Head Grill, the new concession area at Kootenai Falls. On Saturday the lot was full of visitors and Boling was busy with these customers from Fremont, Calif., and Reno, Nev. Boling said the concession, which is owned by Frank Fahland, is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, or “as long as customers are here,” Boling said. The Trail Head Grill offers cool drinks and short-order foods, such as hot dogs, hamburgers, and chips.

Bradley J. Watkins, 54, formerly of Libby

On Aug. 9, 2012, our beloved Bradley J. Watkins passed away at Health Center Northwest in Kalispell. Brad put up a valiant fight to conquer pancreatic cancer and asbestosis.

Varian Isa Cranford, 86, of Ventura, Calif.

Varian Isa Cranford passed away peacefully at her home on Thursday, August 9 2012. Varian was born July 30, 1926 to Oscar and Nada Estill in Coalinga, Calif.

Betty L. Decheine, 77, of Libby

Betty Louise Decheine, 77, died on Monday, Aug. 6, 2012, at her home in Libby of natural causes.  

Chamber trash-can auction raises $775 for local artists

Artists dress up canisters for placement on Mineral

Thanks to the efforts of local artists, sculptors and craftsman, the Libby Chamber of Commerce on Friday evening at the train depot raised $775 through its decorative trash can program.

Hooper: Exemption favored for the local small producer

For Lincoln County hobbyist egg producers, there may not be a reason to get into a scramble as there could be an exemption to a discussed licensing fee.

Parent meetings for fall athletes

A meeting for parents of Libby Middle School students who seek to play football is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 21, at the high school.

Jack Harriman West, 81, of Troy

Jack Harriman West, 81, a longtime resident of Troy died on Thursday, Aug. 9, 2012, at Libby Care Center after a long fight with MS.  

Libby cleanup project reaches milestone during 12th year

Random luck finds Lauer, 69, as he hauls milestone cubic yard

Sometimes, it just pays to be lucky.

Revett profits take dip

Lower metal prices; rain hit profits in mine

While precious metal prices continue to dip, the profits for the Revett Minerals Corp. followed suit, reducing profits considerably in the second quarter.

Ignite the Nites comes to town

Friday and Saturday will celebrate the 51st edition of Ignite the Nites, Libby’s summer hot-rod show that takes over downtown for nights of cruising, cars and controlled mayhem.

Improving Sidewalks

Chance Jordan and Chuck Riley, kneeling, with Riley Excavating and Concrete, prepare the sidewalk underlay so an additional stretch of concrete can be placed on Fourth Street near its intersection with Mineral Avenue. The two were working on the walkways Monday afternoon with hopes of completing both sides of the Fourth Street sidewalk by Saturday. The project is a joint effort by businesses and the city. Businessmen Mike Noble (north side) and Mark Managhan (south side) each contributed to the pair of 165-foot stretches of walk adjacent to their buildings. The city provides the new curbing and rock for the project in this joint-renovation project. 

Change in our production day will benefit readers, news

What happened to water allowance?

Letter to the Editor,

Community finds common ground on area forestry project, readers say

Letter to the Editor,

Souse Gulch Boat Ramp to close for cleanup

The Souse Gulch Boat Ramp at Libby Dam will be temporarily closed starting Monday, August 20, 2012 at 7:00 am until work is finished on August 23, 2012.  

Harpists to perform Aug. 23 at Christ Lutheran Church

The Heavenly Harp duo, featuring harpists Karin and Joy Gunderson, will be performing a concert at 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 23, at Christ Lutheran Church, 200 W. Larch Street.  

Library hosts author, book signing Aug. 18

The Lincoln County Public Library in Libby will be hosting a catered book signing by author Christina Nealson who will be introducing her new book “Drive Me Wild: A Western Odyssey.”  

Library still has full slate of events scheduled

As students prepare to head back to school and teachers begin to prepare their classrooms for the fall, there still is much learning that can be achieved at the  Lincoln County Public Library in Libby.

Local photographers may submit work

Here’s something those photographers who send Reader’s Photos to

Birth: Fernando Xiomar Cano

Fernando Xiomar Cano, son of Alma and Silvestre Cano of Libby was born Aug. 2, 2012 at 8:25 a.m.

Birth: Blake Riely Green

Blake Riely Green, son of Kimmy Klin and Anthony Green of Libby was born Aug. 2, 2012 at 3:06 a.m.

Birth: Kaya Lynn Blow

Kaya Lynn Blow, daughter of Brian Blow and Jessica Carter of Avondale, Ariz., was born July 13, 2012 in Phoenix, Ariz.

Richard R. Torgerson, 76, of Libby

Richard R. Torgerson, 76, a longtime Libby resident, passed away at home after a long battle with cancer on Monday, Aug. 6, 2012, with his family by his side.

Noise law receives its first review

Proposed ordinance will enable police enforcement

Libby Police officers may soon have a reason to demand that neighbor with the loud stereo to tone it down.

EPA reaches 1-millionth mark

During Wednesday morning’s Lincoln County Commissioners meeting, Mike Cirian, the on-site remedial manager for the EPA, told officials the agency “on Thursday or Friday” would remove its 1-millionth cubic yard of soil in the on-going cleanup of Libby.

People Profile: Peggy Rayome

Recognition: Director Kootenai Valley Head Start, Inc.

Softball Blata

LVA member Dolly Blata at the plate.

Old Photo 8-15

New at Troy Fire Chief Ken Hays hangs the Troy Volunteer Fire Department sign, putting the finishing touch on he new building that now houses the departmet equipment. Constructed entirely of cement block with a concrete floor, the 34-by-40-foot structure has two stalls to accommodate the new truck received by the Fire Department, shown here, and the old truck, a 1942 Seagraves it replaces, which will be retained for auxiliary or emergency use. The fire truck committee planned the building , which has been painted white with doors and sign lettering of fire engine red. A lot of volunteer labor from the firemen went into constructing and painting the building, which replaces the one attached to the City Hall about 30 years ago. The firemen painted the doors, hung the sign, installed a propane heater, refrigerator and moved the new fire indicator panel in preparation for the arrival of their new truck. Photo from the July 27, 1972, files of The Western News.

Tour Two

The husband and wife team of Bryon and Diane Whitaker of Corvallis, MT await the startup.

Tour Three

Jason Sokolosky, left, Gord Parker and Katrina Brawner of the Calgary Outdoor Club, await the start of the second annual Le Tour de Koocanusa bicycle tour along the shoreline of Lake Koocanusa. Parker points left, the direction the tour will take for the first half mile, then it's a sharp right and the beginning of an unforgiving 2.4 mile hill climb.

Tour One

Le Tour cyclists as they tackle the first obstacle, a grueling 2.4 mile hill.

Bull Lake Honors

During a ceremony Saturday honoring its first chief, Bull Lake Fire District Board members, from left, include Capt. Michael Dunn, Sylvia Maffit, Patty Sargent, Ray Sampson, Chief Clyde Miller, Mike Casey and Jerry Wallace. The department honored Sampson on Saturday during its annual fundraiser at Bull Lake Rod and Gun Club.

Chamber Trash Can Auction

Libby Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Shanda Jennings keeps a tally on the bids for placement of the artistic canisters. The event raised $775 for local artists.

Hotel Libby Three

Old fashioned sink in the men's restroom.

Hotel Libby Six

And no hotel restroom would be complete without a bit of graffiti. Sweethearts from long ago no doubt!

Hotel Libby Ten

Gail Burger points to one of the massive windows that looks out over Hotel Libby's courtyard.

Hotel Libby Seven

A closet full of room cards depicting past patrons of Hotel Libby.

Hotel Libby Sign

Junior Fair parade from Aug. 30, 1962 shows the Hotel Libby sign in background that was photographed in the hotel basement Aug. 7, 2012

Hotel Libby Nine

Hotel Libby's main boiler room. Another room that adjoins this one has yet to be opened.

Hotel Libby Eleven

Looking up the grand staircase from the hotel lobby.

Hotel Libby Five

Room adjoining lobby complete with Roy Porter mural.

Hotel Libby Eight

One of the trap doors in Hotel Libby.

John Sievers

John Sievers, 80, who raises chickens because he likes farm-fresh eggs, gets about eight eggs a day from his hens. 

Rescuers free a trapped bull moose

A large bull moose, perhaps stumbling home from the bars, found himself upside down in a ditch in early-July, much to his surprise.

Hotel Libby owner plans to reopen within five years

One of Libby’s most prominent landmarks is on its way to total renovation after years of neglect and an EPA overhaul.

22 shooters compete in Ironman

After two days of shooting compeition at the Lincoln County Range, the Libby Scatterguns crowned one of their own as Ironman 2012.

Votapka Rotary

Distinguished Rotarian Award

Video Club still seeks financial assistance

Libby Video Club provides nine over-the-air channels to Libby, and unfortunately, unexpected costs are mounting in the face of underwhelming donations.

Senior Menu - August

Libby Senior Center Menu 

'The Graying of Montana' will analyze state revenues, effects

“The Graying of Montana,” a two-day discussion about how Montana’s aging population is likely to affect both the state’s revenues and expenditures in the coming years, will held Sept. 10 and 11 at the Red Lion Colonial Inn in Helena.

Grief support group meets on Aug. 21

The Grief Support Group will meet Tuesday, Aug. 21, at Christ Lutheran Church.

Hotel Two

A former sign which hung prominently on the northeast corner of the hotel tucked away in the basement for safe keeping.

Hotel Three

Old fashioned sink in the men's restroom.

Caregiver's group meets on Tuesday

The Caregiver’s  Support Group will meet from 2 to 3 p.m. at Libby United Methodist Church.

Hotel One

Hotel Libby's Gail Burger

Diabetes support group to meet

The Diabetes Support Group will meet Tuesday, Aug. 14 at 7 p.m. at Christ Lutheran Church, 200 West Larch St. in Libby.  

Hotel Four

A peek at the grand staircase from the third floor looking down.

SJLH employees donate to 'Habitat'

The employees at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital once again teamed up to support an important local not-for-profit organization.  

Rizzolo, orthopedic surgeon, brings spine skills to SJLH

Dr. Steven Rizzolo, orthopedic surgeon specializing in back and spine, is making back surgery and treatments for area residents more assessable.  

Police Blotter: July 25- Aug. 3

Libby Dam rangers to offer special sessions just for children

Children may never look at the Libby Dam in the same way ever again thanks to a free Junior Ranger Program.

Floyd A. Jenkins, 60, of Troy

Floyd A. Jenkins, 60, passed away at his sister’s home in Troy on July 29, 2012. 

Relay for Life nets record turnout

Event gets $37,544 to top past proceeds

Hope is an intangible thing. It can be built or demolished in an instant and can vanish forever if not nurtured.

Hotter, drier forests ahead

Benefits of wet spring are but a memory now

Near-record rainfall for June and July has gone a long way toward fire suppression in the Kootenai National Forest, but according to its forest fire management officer the worst is yet to come.

High schools gear up for fall sports

Troy High School football practice begins Monday, Aug. 13. Practice times will be from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Libby Fine Arts meets on Thursday

The Libby Fine Arts, Inc., will meet at 1:30 p.m.  Thursday, Aug. 9, at the Christ Lutheran Church basement.

Mill fire payoff is $10 Million

Judgment likely to be appealed; Port Authority gets $6 million

The Lincoln County Port Authority has been awarded a $10.047 million judgment against its insurance provider for property losses in the Feb. 25, 2010, fire that destroyed the mill building known as the Plywood Plant.

Relay Roth

Rainy Roth, three-time survivor, had this luminary to light when the sun went down.

Relay Rebo

Lynette Rebo, left, holds hands with her mother, Arlyne Beito. The caring hands are a symbol of the survivor-cargiver relationship.

Relay Survivors 1

Some of Lincoln County’s cancer survivors gather for a photo before their walk.

Relay Mr. Relay 2

Jason Mobley won the title of Mr. Relay 2012 after raising nearly $100 in an hour.

Relay Survivors

Judy Bloomer, left, Doc Sargent, Paula Darko-Hensler and Rainy Roth hold the survivors banner as they begin the first of many laps around Asa Wood School’s field for Lincoln County’s Relay for Life.

Relay Mr. Relay 1

Jason Mobley was crowned Mr. Relay on Friday evening for his fundraising abilities as Penney Hook recognizes his achievements. Hook recently won the World’s National Mrs. contest.

Relay Fishin

A carnival for the kids (and kids-at-heart) put on by the Loggers for Life team featured this deep-sea fishing attraction, where volunteers would help kids “catch” a prize with a clothespin lure.

Relay

The theme of the relay, “Hollywood Walk of Stars” was summed up in this clapperboard.

Old Photo 8-8

Honoring the Chief Libby Volunteer Fire Department members, past and present, turned out in their red blazers to honor the memory of their former chief, the late Bill F. Dorrington, who died July 27. LVFD members attending WednesdayÕs funeral service at St. Joseph Catholic Church were Emil Muench, left, retired; Ed Baker, retired; Charlie Comer, Marc McGill, George Clough, Bill Kemp, Ken Preston, Wayne Camp, Lyle Hacke and Tom Wood. The firemen rode Engine No. 3 to the services. Chuck Blair photo from the Aug. 7, 1992, files of The Western News.

Local Chapter Roughnecks

An estimated 125 motorcyclists of the national group “Roughnecks” gathered in Libby last week. The group consists of past and present law enforcement, emergency services and past and present military personnel. The local chapter hosted the event, and among those pictured are, from left, Terry Watson, Bobby Smith, Jim Smith, Wilbur Hartle, Steve Wilcox, Clay Coker and Brent Teske.

SJLH HFH

Contributing to the Habitat for Humanity Jeans Day are, from left front to back, KC Hoyer, Kate Stephens, and Habitat for Humanity Board Members Carole Armstrong and Susie Rice, Amy Hayes, Erin Leighty, Dede Kibler, Cathy Wolfe, Barb Dumont, Cindy Peek, Julie MacDonald, John Schwartz, Gayl Smith, Coleen Uribe, Susan Horelick, Sue Graham, Mark Edwards, Janeen Lewis, Jon Reny and Loren Clausen.

Grupenhoff, Germany, Winslow claim state awards

As if getting fourth place in the state Legion baseball tournament wasn’t enough of its own accord, several Libby players brought home some individual accolades.

Junior Fair exhibitor grateful for volunteers

Letter to the Editor,

Climate change? We really need earth change, reader says

Tree Board grateful for civic support

Blind hubris, overwhelming Republican arrogance to blame, reader says

Letter to the Editor,

Hill lauds FW&P decision on wolf hunts, says first step in right direction

Letter to the Editor, 

Eagle Scout project breathes new life into Jerry Dean Park

Jerry Dean Park, adjacent to McGrade School, needed a facelift. Its trails were run down, its sign was worn, and its central pavilion was worse for the wear.

Birth: Dakota Rayne Scott

Dakota Rayne Scott, daughter of Carrie Ann Stone and Jessie Scott of Libby was born July 25, 2012.

Kaylee Ann Jellesed

Kaylee Ann Jellesed, daughter of Stephanie and Brian Jellesed of Libby was born July 26, 2012.

Birth: Michael Anthony Salazar-Mills

Michael Anthony Salazar-Mills, son of Renae Mills and Mark Salazar of Libby was born July 26, 2012.

Birth: Gatlin Gary Zajanc

Gatlin Gary Zajanc, son of Amanda and Gary Zajanc of Libby was born July 23, 2012.

Robert A. Moak, 73, of Libby

Robert A. Moak, 73, a longtime Libby resident died Saturday July 28, 2012, at Kalispell Regional Medical Center from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident.  

Self-Help legal aid rep at courthouse

A representative from the Self-Help Law Program will be at the Lincoln County Courthouse, second floor, in the law library from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 9.

Church of God offers evening VBS

Libby Church of God invites area children to get ready to dive into fun at Operation Overboard: Dare to Go Deep with God Vacation Bible School. 

Igniters Car Club planning for summer's big event

Ignite the Nites, the biggest summer event in Libby, is just two short weeks away, and if the thought was it couldn’t be any grander than last year’s 50th anniversary celebration, think again.

People Profile: Kelly Morford

Honors: Educator, Loggers baseball, wrestling coach

Local to teach at one-room school

When the 25 students file into the 103-year-old McCormick Schoolhouse on August 29, they will be greeted by Nikki Eide, a Troy native and first time teacher.

Bradford addresses Forest Plan

County workers receive cost-of-living adjustment

A full slate of agenda items faced Lincoln County Commissioners on Wednesday, among them updates from Kootenai National Forest Supervisor Paul Bradford, and it also marked  a larger payday for most county employees.

Loggers peak at right time; finish fourth at state

Libby impresses at State, gets fourth and is eligible to return whole crew

It wasn’t a favorable hand to be dealt. Libby, fresh off a second-place finish in the Legion baseball Western District Tournament, was slated to face the three-time state champion Laurel Dodgers.

Kootenai River Rodeo Results

Police Blotter: June 23-25

New doctor - a hospitalist - joins St. John's medical staff

Her patient’s are raving about her and the staff at St. John’s refer to her as enthusiastic, energetic, and a joy to work with.  Her name is Nicolle Benz, DO, Board Certified in Internal Medicine.    Dr. Benz is the second step in the implementation of the hospitalist program at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital in Libby.   

Flathead Electric Co-op offers free energy audit

Persons who have electric heat to warm  their homes and have been contemplating signing up for one of Flathead Electric Co-op’s free home energy audits, the time is now! .

Montana children rank 28th in three health indicators

Montana children’s well-being ranks better than average in 3-of-4 categories, according to the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s 2012 National Kids Count Data Book.

Housing market continues to improve

Montana’s housing market continues to improve, with nearly every major market across the state reporting an increase in activity through the first six months of the year. 

Two Idaho men injured in separate accidents on Wednesday

A pair of Idaho residents were injured last Wednesday in two separate, back-to-back accidents on Wednesday afternoon.

Engagement: Bundrock-Maiden

Daniel and Trish Bundrock would like to announce the engagement of their daughter, Danielle Bundrock, to Jeremiah Robert Maiden, son of Robert and Becky Maiden and Bob and Cheri Javorsky, all of Libby. 

CHC participates in National CHC Week

Northwest Community Health Center is participating in National CHC Week with a couple of events next week.

Walking One

Don Stevenson, right, of Auburn, Wash., is walking to benefit the blind. Stevenson, a retired minister who is known as the “Pacin’ Parson,” began his walk June 7 from Rugby, N.D., and plans to conclude his 1,400-mile trek on Sept. 7 in Auburn. Stevenson, 76, walked through Libby on Monday and Tuesday on his journey and with the aid of Andrea O’Connell, and her two sons, William, center left, and Jonathan, walked part of the trip blindfolded to represent the plight of the blind. Stevenson is donating the proceeds of his walk to Nicholas Premo, 12, who was born blind. To contribute, log on to Stevenson’s Website at thepacingparson.com.

Grupenhoff

State tourney in Great Falls

Deersies

No sibling rivalry here...