Ellington

Addressing the myths and facts about tobacco addiction - smokeless and spit

Letter to the Editor,

Eminent domain is not a good reason to build the Keystone Pipeline

Letter to the Editor,

Plans for Rosebud Flats Subdivision draws interest in Troy

A more than six-acre plot north of Troy is nearing the end of its timeline to go officially on record, but owner Ken Davis has a lot of work if that’s to happen.

Libby Middle-High Honor Roll

New KootenaiDeals.com offers something for everyone

Would you like to spend less money when you buy local goods and services? 

Criticizing mayor for helping the city is just not right; focus on building our town

Letter to the Editor,

Savage is acquitted of witness tampering, assault charges

Dan James Savage, Jr., was acquitted of four criminal charges during a three-day trial in 19th Judicial District Court last month.

Birth: Emma Joanne Gassett

Emma Joanne Gassett, daughter of Ashley and Garrett Gassett of Libby, was born Feb. 12 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Ander Backen

Ander Backen, son of Lucas and Jill Backen of Libby, was born Feb. 15 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Wagners celebrate 60 years

Judy and Lloyd Wagner celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Feb. 14.

Jon Weisenbach, 72, of Libby

Jon J. Weisenbach, 72, passed away of natural causes at his Libby home on Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013. 

Welch sentencing Thursday

53-year-old woman fatally shot husband at Granite Lake home

Kristina Lynn Welch, the 53-year-old woman who pleaded guilty in December in the shooting death of her husband, Charles Bryan Welch, is scheduled for sentencing Thursday in 19th Judicial District Court.

Unite with 1 billion: It's high time to gather and stop the violence against world's women

Letter to the Editor,

Lady Loggers earn fourth place at divisional tourney

The Libby Lady Loggers beat Whitefish in Ronan before suffering two close losses to claim fourth place, the most successful finish of any local team at Divisionals this season.

Destiny Tallmadge, 20, of Troy

Destiny Rene Tallmadge, 20, of Troy went to “fly on her own wings” on Feb. 19, 2013. 

Troy Davis

Ken Davis addresses Troy's City Council with proposed changes to the Rosebud Flats Subdivision.

Eureka takes revenge, knocks Troy from playoffs

The Troy boys basketball team lost its first two games on its way to an early exit against 7-B rival Eureka at the divisional tournament in Kalispell.

Libby boys surprised by Polson, beaten by Whitefish

Two swift losses to Northwestern A teams bumped Libby from the basketball playoffs this weekend, and the senior-heavy team walked away with a 7-13 record.

THS benefit aids projector purchase

Troy High School’s Foreign Language Club and International Affairs Club is sponsoring the showing of the movie Sarah’s Key at Troy’s Lincoln Theatre for the purpose of raising funds for purchasing a digital projector.

NRA banquet set for this Friday

The Kootenai Valley Friends of the NRA annual banquet is this Friday, March 1, at the Memorial Center and tickets are going fast.

Proposal to mitigate bull trout is pending

Plan will aid area fisheries near Montanore Mine site

If a corporation is going to spend money to enhance the environment, it would rather those improvements be local than regional, and so would Montanore Minerals, Inc.

Savage

DJ Savage, Nov. 19, 2012

Spell McLinden

Libby Middle School eighth-grader Shelbie McLinden receives a plaque and a $50 check from Lincoln County Superintendent Ronald Higgins Thursday for winning the Lincoln County spelling bee and a chance to compete in the state spelling bee in Billings March 23.

Wolves

Dave Kneller, left, and Scott Lennard hold up two adult female gray wolves they trapped Feb. 17. The two wolves, one 70 pounds, the other 85, were believed to be part of the same pack – the Satire pack – that killed several hounds earlier this month. The trappers had been setting traps off and on all season and plan to keep and use the hides.

Welch Property

No trespassing signs lined the Welch property on a border they shared with their neighbors to the east.

Old Photo 2-26

DARE Essay Winners Sixth grade students form Morrison Elementary School in Troy recognized as winning DARE essay writers included Brandon Wilson, Preston Paquet, Sunshine Clark, Erin Flynn, Courtney Huff, Sarah Reichert and Candace Price. Not pictured is Megan Resig. Looking on in the background is DARE officer Bob Kamena. Photo from the Feb. 17, 1993, files of The Western News.

Frustration

A frustrated Loggers team can only watch as Whitefish scores 11 3-pointers to send Libby home early in a 65-41 loss.

Gerry Cat

Three members of the Mercer family bagged their cats this year. Gerry Mercer shot his mountain lion in the Fisher River drainage in January. 

George Cat

George Mercer and his wife, Amber, shot their mountain lions in the Cabinet Mountains in January. The Mercers said they were grateful for the assistance of local dog handlers who assisted with their hunts: Phil, Mike, Tyler, Justin and Duane. Unfortunately, Phil’s dog, Roy, and two other dogs were later killed by gray wolves near Libby.

Anniversary Wagners

The Wagners celebrated 60 years of marriage at Libby’s Nazarene Church on Feb. 10.

John Carlson

U.S. Forest Service Fisheries Biologist John Carlson indicates the area of the headwaters of Libby Creek where a native population of bull trout are located. Steps could be made as part of the Montanore Mines mitigation plan that could improve their habitat.

Voss family grateful for success of the liver-transplant benefit

Letter to the Editor,

Former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop dies at 96

With his long silver beard and white braided uniform, former Surgeon General C. Everett Koop became one of the most recognizable figures of the Reagan era — and one of the most unexpectedly enduring.

Schweitzer seeks to save Stillwater Mining Co.

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — Montana's bolo tie-wearing former governor is teaming up with an unlikely ally — a New York hedge fund — to seek control of a precious metals mining company that has sunk more than $500 million into projects deemed questionable in Canada and Argentina.

Graduation Matters Libby makes mark

Since Libby became a Graduation Matters town last May, a few local individuals have set their sights on spreading the word about the power of graduation.

Remove kindling prevents fires

Kootenai National Forest Ranger  Kirsten Kaiser recently signed a decision to log timber several miles away from the homes in the Yaak areas telling the public that the reason was “to reduce hazardous fuels.”

Lawmakers take aim at two gay-rights measures

HELENA — Montana lawmakers considered a pair of familiar gay -rights measures Tuesday, one that would strike an obsolete state law that criminalizes gay sex and another that would expand anti-discrimination protections.

Murder suspects could be in Montana

The Sonoma County Sheriff's Office is releasing surveillance photos of persons of interest in the Forestville triple homicide investigation.  Investigators believe these men and the associated Ford Ranger are possible associates of suspect Mark Cappello and may have information regarding the homicide.  Anyone with information pertaining to these subjects or the vehicle is asked to contact detectives at 707-565-2185.

Labor Department says poster scam spreading

Small businesses across Montana are contacting the Montana Department of Labor and Industry complaining of aggressive marketing companies trying to sell labor law posters. 

Police Blotter: Feb. 7 - Feb. 15

Forget the mines; we must protect our best and precious Cabinet Mountain Wilderness

Letter to the Editor,

Lactic acid build-up remains a concern for horses, must be monitored for their health

No domestic animal inspires more romance and fascination than the horse.  

Assisted suicide opponents state their rationale

Associated Press

Bullock, Republicans at odds on budget; GOP attacks costs

Associated Press

Prep Spotlight: Loggers' Winslow can't be stopped; averages 15.4 pts a game

For a junior on a senior-heavy team, Jared Winslow has embraced his role as the squad’s top scorer. It’s kind of his thing at this point.

Truck-repair fiasco just might be a test for Mayor Roll

The public, in general, has a soft spot for public officials who confess their mistakes and put forth an honest effort to correct them. 

Powerline collapse prompts study by Missoula firm in Troy

Troy is taking additional steps to repair its creaking infrastructure after recent incidents have shown the electric grid might have deficiencies.

Lawyer fees may take a fifth of settlement

Lawsuit involves Libby settlement

Associated Press

Stacia L. Fifield, 80, of Troy

Stacia Lea Fifield, 80, passed away with family by her side Feb. 16, 2013, at St.  John’s Lutheran Hospital.  

Libby Irish Fair kicks off March 9

The 18th annual Irish Fair will be held Saturday, March 9, at the Memorial Center in Libby. 

Council Williams

City Councilwoman Peggy Williams updates the council on Park Committee reports Tuesday. 

Winslow

vs. Thompson Falls Jan. 10, 2013

Spell McLinden

Libby Middle School eighth grader Shelbie McLinden spells out the winning word (pantheon) Thursday for a first place win in the Lincoln County spelling bee and a chance to compete at the state spelling bee in Billings on March 23.

Loggers lose first-round game

The Libby Loggers lost their first-round game to the Polson Pirates 47-40 and fell into a 9 a.m. Saturday loser-out game.

Spell Graziano

Shelbie McLinden, 13 shakes hands with second place winner Galen Graziano, 14, both of Libby Middle School and both 8th graders.

Carter Shay

Heritage Museum volunteer Ron Carter holds an antique lantern as he stands on the running board of the newly purchased Shay locomotive. The lantern belonged to Libby resident Germaine Hugill’s father, Bernhard Schlumm.

Council Roll

Looking toward Councilman Allen Olsen, Libby Mayor Doug Roll explains his decision to accept payment for work on a city-owned truck.

Governor Bullock

Gov. Steve Bullock talks about tax laws in his State of the State address Wednesday evening Jan. 30, 2013 in the House Chambers. Bullock promised on Wednesday to "change the tone" in the Capitol as he asked a Legislature led by opposition Republicans to help him in cutting taxes, fixing the state pension system, increasing education funding, expanding Medicaid and shedding light on the so-called "dark money" flooding politics. (AP Photo/The Independent Record, Dylan Brown)

Council Olsen

Councilmember Allen Olsen

District 1 looks at school cutbacks

17-item list details what may be slashed

Despite years of trying to make do with what it had, Troy School District 1 has to face the realities of declining enrollment the same as any other district.

Great Falls parents deny child abuse

GREAT FALLS, Mont. (AP) — Two Great Falls residents have denied child abuse charges filed after a 2-year-old boy was injured so badly he needed to be treated at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle.

Grad Matters

At halftime of last month’s basketball game against Troy, the Graduation Matters group brought out this year’s kindergarteners, the Libby High School class of 2025, to show that kids should think about graduating even when they are young.

Jury rules "justifiable homicide" in Sheridan County slaying

BILLINGS, Mont. (AP) — A coroner's inquest found a Sheridan County sheriff's deputy was justified in shooting a Plentywood man to death outside a casino last July as he held her at gunpoint.

"Blade Runner" let out on bail

PRETORIA, South Africa (AP) — A South African magistrate allowed Oscar Pistorius to go free on bail Friday, capping hearings that foreshadow a dramatic trial in the Valentine's Day killing of the star athlete's girlfriend.

Conflict of Interest

Mayor Roll, Councilman Olsen at odds over truck repair

Libby Mayor Doug Roll on Tuesday addressed his business’ repair of a city-owned truck, but the explanation came after his gavel closed the City Council meeting.

KPFL fundraiser is set for weekend

The Kootenai Pets for Life Rummage Sale Fundraiser is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, Feb. 22 and 23 at the Ponderosa Room at Libby City Hall.

Wildlife biologists studying trends in moose population

Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks started gathering information last week as part of a study to determine whether the moose population in western Montana is on the decline. 

Frenchtown escapes grasp of Loggers

Both Libby basketball teams played tight games and almost upset Frenchtown, but the resilient Broncs didn’t allow it to happen, and Libby lost both games.

Alternative school gives kids an option

For most Central School students this is a last chance in a classroom

From the moment an outsider approaches Central School, it is apparent this place looks at learning differently.

No. 2 seed Troy slips by T-Falls; gets whacked by Bigfork

The Troy High School boys basketball team took its first steps toward a playoff run Thursday night by dispatching No. 3 seed Thompson Falls 48-45 with the help of a little good fortune. 

Family trip to the March for Life begins rather ominously

Letter to the Editor,

Let's clean up recruiting NCAA standards

Letter to the Editor,

Waters still request public transportation

Letter to the Editor,

Roll, dba DP Automotive, should have excused himself from truck repair

Letter to the Editor,

Riding the Empire Builder really is the best way to travel

Riding the train is totally underrated.

Libby Legacy Project sessions now available for online viewing

 The Libby Legacy Project offered a series of lectures last fall about the history and ramifications of vermiculite mining and asbestos contamination in Lincoln County, and now those sessions are available for viewing online.

Stacia L. Fifield, 80, of Troy

Stacia L. Fifield, 80, died of natural causes Saturday Feb. 16, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital. 

Leidigh-Cochran

Chuck and Camille Leidigh of the Yaak are proud to announce the marriage of their daughter, Cherith M. Leidigh, to David H. Cochran, son of James and Carrie Cochran of West Union, S.C.

Police Blotter: Feb. 4 - Feb. 7

City pays mayor for truck repairs

Olsen accuses Roll of conflict of interest

Libby Mayor Doug Roll is being criticized by City Councilman Allen Olsen for mechanic work performed on a city-owned truck.

Hickman leads Trojans into playoffs

For Troy High School junior Gabe Hickman, the leadership role he is shouldering for Troy’s basketball team isn’t a new thing.

Last-minute proposal could have changed the House districts

Letter to the Editor,

County tops in teen binging

Youth more savvy about arranging alcohol parties

Lincoln County has a drinking problem. Hard drinking has been something that has been a part of local history since the first miners went underground and the first loggers trudged into the woods.

Greenchain wrap-up

With a ninth-place finish earned with just a handful of athletes, Libby Greenchain wrestling can take the off-season to rest, recuperate and begin training for next season.

BBT Metz

Junior center Bruce Metz pokes away a ball from Thompson Falls’ Baptiste Seynaeve in the  second quarter of Troy’ s playoff win at home. Metz was returning from a leg injury.

Legal case against some county officials based on false accusations, arrest

Letter to the Editor,

Be wary of ticks, their diseases and know the proper ways of extraction

The Kootenai Valley is a delightful place to live for anyone who enjoys the outdoors. Since we are immediately surrounded by wooded hills and mountains, we are never far from brush and undercover — the natural habitat of ticks.

Commitment to community: It's where Eagles soar

Laura J. Graves, 77, of Libby

Laura Jean Graves, mother and grandmother, passed away Feb. 3, 2013, while in Riverton, Wyo.

Wanda E. Jaqueth, 85, of Libby

Wanda Emma (Mourar) Jaqueth, 85, passed away of natural causes peacefully at her home in Libby on Monday, Feb. 11, 2013.

Improving graduation rates now puts Libby in the forefront

Doing as much or more with fewer educators and less budget has been the mantra in Libby School District 4, a task Libby High School Principal Rik Rewerts has embraced.

Firewise timber harvest delayed until spring

Lincoln County Forester Ed Levert is a pragmatist. For Levert, it’s not whether an area will be ravaged by wildfires, but when.

Francom hired as Troy's top educator

For now, he will serve dual roles for district

In a momentous decision Monday night, the Troy School Board unanimously approved Troy High School Principal Jacob Francom to be the new superintendent for Troy School District 1. 

Old Photo 2-19

First Place Award Mark Fennessy, right, receives the trophy for first place in the novice boys division at the Libby Invitational ski meet at Big Mountain Sunday. Fred Wenk makes the presentation on behalf of Libby American Legion Post 97, sponsor of the event. Looking on is Stuart Swenson, racing chairman for Libby Ski Club. Miller's Studio photo from the March 14, 1963, files of The Western News.

GBL Craig

Libby’s sophomore wing Hailey Craig sets up the offense in the Lady Loggers’ narrow loss to Frenchtown. Craig hit six 3-pointers as part of her 23 points.

Engaged Leidigh

Leidigh, Cochran

CHC Hageness

Jeremy Hageness admires the .270 cal Thompson Center rifle Saturday as Joe Chopyak looks on.

CHC LaGoy

Dr. Charles LaGoy was the lucky winner of the Thompson/Center .270-caliber rifle.

CHC Beer

Arthur Pankey was the highest bidder in the silent auction for a bucket of beer. In all, more than 200 people attended the event and helped raise more than $23,000 for Northwest Community Health Center. 

CHC Fly Rod

John Resch and Bruce Foss look at the custom-made fly rod that was auctioned during the Northwest Community Health Center Banquet on Saturday.

CHC Harvey Wants Gun

Harvey Person takes a chance at winning the Thompson/Center .270 rifle as Joe Chopyak gladly accepts his ticket.

CHC Card Players

Poker players tried their luck at cards to win a trip to either San Diego, New York or Las Vegas during the CHC banquet on Saturday at the Memorial Center. Chosen to play for the chance to win were, from left, Zack McNew, Paul Resch, Nicole Heyne, who was assisted by Joe Chopyak, Dave Cole, Challis Crismore and dealer and emcee Tony Rebo. Cole won the poker hand and the trip after drawing four kings (deuces and jokers were wild).

Central Todd Berget

Todd Berget, a teacher at Central School, tells the Libby School Board about the success of the alternative school during a board meeting last Monday. Shown from left are board members Les Nelson,  Superintendent K.W. Maki, Lori Benson, and Board President Tracy Comeau.  

Central Computers

Central School teacher Dean Herried instructs James Miller with a mapping program during class Friday.

New law allows more wolf permits, lessens non-resident costs

A wolf management bill that won swift and overwhelming bipartisan support in the Montana Legislature was signed into law Wednesday by the state’s new governor.

Wolves kill three hounds

Dogs attacked while pursuing mountain lion, found mauled

Edit: The previous edition of this story stated that Roy, Soucy's 10-year-old dog, was a beagle. Roy was an English coonhound, a larger dog used for hunting.

Wolf Trapper

Wolf Management Specialist Kent Laudon demonstrates the setting of the No. 7 EZ Grip Livestock Protecton Trap Saturday during the Wolf Trapping Certification Class. Laudon recommends a 10-13 pound pan tension on the rubber padded trap.

Wolf Rug

A wolf rug on display during the Wolf Trapping Certification Class held at Asa Wood Saturday.

Wolf Laudon

Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks' Kent Laudon explains the use of the recommended wolf trap, the MB750, Saturday during the wolf trapping certification class at Asa Wood. In all 62 certificates were issued following the five hour class.

Wolf Sadie 1

Sadie, belonging to 14-year-old Ryker Hittle, was one dog killed Feb. 2

Hickman

Gabe Hickman, Troy’s standout junior guard, drives the lane against Class C Noxon in mid-December. Hickman’s showy scoring has pushed Troy to second in District 7-B.

Francom Mug

Jacob Francom

Hospital Gift Store

Trojans rally to win first playoff game 48-45

The Troy boys basketball team had a shaky second half, and looked doomed to the Thompson Falls Bluehawks.

Shopko '12 grants near $1 million

The Shopko Foundation, which has a store in Libby, has awarded grants totaling $981,000 during fiscal year 2012.  

The new political asymmetry: Nowhere to neither run nor hide

Letter to the Editor,

Veterans, Park Committee reach agreement

The Parks Committee, a group comprised of City Council members, and the Lincoln County Veterans Memorial Foundation have come to a tentative deal to place a monument at Riverfront Park.

Laura J. Graves, 77, of Riverton, Wyo.

Laura Jean Graves, mother and grandmother, passed away Feb. 3, 2013, in Riverton, Wyo.

Turner Mountain Ski Patrol

Employees at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital recently marked the Turner Mountain Ski Patrol as the recipient for its Jeans Day. Hospital employees contribute to a fund for the opportunity to wear blue jeans on Friday. The hospital then matches the fund. In the photo are, front row, Kent Johnson, TMSP board member, Lynn Hagarty, TMSP treasurer, St. John’s CEO Bruce Whitfield and Steve Lefever, TMSP patroller. In the second row are Kate Stephens, Amy Cady, TMSP, Barb Dumont and Jon Reny. In the third row are 

Serra completes board certification

St. John’s Lutheran Hospital announces the board certification of emergency medicine physician Mark Serra, DO, by the American Osteopathic Board of Emergency Medicine (AOBEM).  

Lonzetta Grimes, 74, of Libby

Lonzetta “Lonnie” Mae Grimes, 74, went to be with her Lord on Feb. 7, 2013.  

Libby Clinic medical student glad to be serving in Montana

Heinrich will serve patients in Libby for about six months

Libby Clinic is welcoming a new medical student for a few months, and she is glad to be back in her home state.

All roads lead to Bigfork after Troy shuts down Eureka Lions

Troy’s boys basketball team claimed another conference win over county rival Eureka on senior night Friday, pushing its record to 7-10, 6-2 in conference.

Eureka romps, sends Troy to Tuesday's play-in game at Bigfork

For Troy High School’s senior-heavy girls basketball team, this weekend was a letdown.

Pirates upend Libby teams

Both Libby basketball teams traveled to Polson on Saturday and each suffered conference losses to the Pirates.

Scientists support EPA draft analysis on Libby asbestos risks

BILLINGS — Federal officials anticipate finishing by late 2014 a risk study to guide the cleanup of Libby, after a panel of scientists backed draft results that say even a minuscule amount of the substance can lead to lung problems.

Police Blotter: Jan. 24 - Feb. 4

Camber scores high on recertification

Dr. Anne Camber, local obstetrician and gynecologist with the St. John’s Lutheran Hospital physicians and surgeons group, has proven what her patients had already suspected — that she is a cut above the rest in her field.  

Libby resident seeks answers from varied questions from mayor, council

Letter to the Editor,

There are lessons to be learned in monument squabble

It took a while, but Libby’s elected officials finally got it right last week when they presented the Lincoln County Veterans Memorial Foundation with a contract to place a monument at Riverfront Park. 

KPFL chip event slated for Feb. 23

Kootenai Pets For Life will hold its next pet micro-chipping event on Saturday Feb. 23 at its shelter on County Shop Road.  

Astronomy club to meet on Feb. 15

The Kootenai Stargazers Astronomy Club will meet Friday, Feb. 15, at the home of Gene and Laura McGlasson, 324 White Ave. in Libby.

Birth: Kadan Gene Lynn Suitor

Kadan Gene Lynn Suitor, son of Tasha Lynn and Greg Suitor of Libby, was born Feb. 5 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Maci Teets

Maci Teets, daughter of Teryn Shelton and Aaron Shelton of Kalispell, was born at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Nov. 24, 2012.

Viola M. Rambo, 97, of Libby

Viola Rambo passed away in her home on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013.  

Eatery officials like new ranking

Restaurateurs say it will improve dining

Libby restaurateurs see the recently approved food-preparation grading system for Lincoln County as an act that will improve food quality overall but say their restaurants are and have been compliant.

Four Libby Greenchain grapplers place at state

Libby Greenchain took nine athletes to the state tournament in Billings.

'Wind down' of Stinger Welding begins

MCA Financial, Group, Inc., the Arizona court-appointed receiver for Stinger Welding, Inc., on Monday issued a statement spelling an end for the bridge and span manufacturer.

City selects hydro planner

Seattle engineers chosen to study Flower Creek Dam’s potential

Libby City Council members have received a preliminary engineering report for the potential of the new Flower Creek Dam to produce hydro-electric power.

Three honored as Eagle Scouts

Boy Scouts from Troop 1970 commemorated the culmination of Boy Scout Week 2013 in a big way as three young men achieved their Eagle Scout awards Friday, Feb. 8. Boy Scout Week ran Feb. 3 to 9. 

Loggers down Lions at home in 68-44 rout

Despite only a two-point lead at the half, the Libby High School boys basketball team pulled ahead in a big way over its inter-county rival Eureka, winning the nonconference game 68-44 on Tuesday night.

Tester's bill may not be the answer

We're starting to see surcharges on our medical bills to pay for Obamacare

Letter to the Editor,

Another gun tragedy: Time for change because current laws don't work

Letter to the Editor,

Lots of good CDBG ideas; dam project steps to forefront

Cross your fingers, Libby. There may be additional funding for the Flower Creek Dam project.

Birth: Asa Kincaid Sanders

Asa Kincaid Sanders, son of Melissa and John Sanders of Libby, was born Jan. 30 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Ethan Allen Hammrich

Ethan Allen Hammrich, son of Tabitha Clark and Brian Hammrich of Libby, was born Feb. 1 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Cernick baby

Shaina and Nathan Cernick of Libby welcomed a son to their life Feb. 1 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Carson Matthew Quillin

Carson Matthew Quillin, son of Lindsey Munson and Matthew Quillin of Libby, was born Jan. 30 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Samuel Lisle

Samuel Lisle, son of Penny Lisle Reid and James Reid of Libby, was born Jan. 28 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Libby Clinic site of mercury spill

Libby’s EPA Information Center received a call at 1:21 p.m. Jan. 28 reporting a mercury spill at the Libby Clinic. 

City offers credit-debit card payment

Libby water customers may now pay their bills with a credit or debit card. The service began Feb. 1.

Council OKs street closure for three-day art show

An outdoor art show is coming to Mineral Avenue this Fourth of July weekend.

John H. Robbe, 44, formerly of Libby

John Henry Robbe, 44, died of complications related to cancer Jan. 20, 2013, at his home. He was surrounded by his family.

Bill B. Heinlein, 85, of Grants Pass, Ore.

Bill B. Heinlein, 85, of Grants Pass, Ore., died Saturday, Jan. 12, 2013, at Three Rivers Medical Center.

Lucille G. Wiley, 74, of Libby

Lucille G. Wiley, 74, passed away Tuesday, Feb.  5, 2013, at her home in Libby.  

Robert C. Conn, 80, of Libby

Robert C. “Bubba” Conn, 80, of Libby, passed away of natural causes Monday, Feb. 4, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.  

Wrestle Roach

Ricky Roach (145) lunges for the top position in his matchup.

Wrestle Crace

Zach Crace (125) takes down an opponent at the state tournament in Billings. Crace, along with four other Greenchain athletes, made it to the second day of the tournament. Mitch Haugen, Austin Bailey, Garret Chapel and Zack Dolezal were the others who made the second day.

Wrestle Chapel

Garret Chapel (152) grapples with an opponent at the state tournament. Chapel earned a fifth-place finish.

Wrestle Bailey

Austin Bailey (171) won second-place at state.

Old Photo 2-12

Corey Andersen, Libby's high scorer goes for two over the top of Ronan defenders. The Loggers edged Ronan by one point for the second time. The 8-7 Loggers play their final two road games this weekend with a game Friday at Troy and Saturday at Polson. Libby needs two wins in its final three games to insure a winning season. Chuck Blair photo from the Feb. 10, 1993, files of The Western News.

Wrestle Haugen

Mitch Haugen (135) earned a second-place finish at state.

GBT Johnston

Troy senior center Breanna Opland, left, and junior guard Kelli Lundin watch junior center Caitlin Johnston grab an offensive rebound in the third quarter of the 61-25 conference loss to Eureka.

GBT Williams

Senior forward Jordan Williams brings the ball down court on a fourth quarter fast break vs. Eureka Friday evening.

GBT Curry

Michaela Curry fouls out in fourth quarter vs. Eureka 2-8-13

Eagles Family Leaders

The Scouts are backed by their parents, David and Denise Broderick and Mort and Cindy Curtiss. Behind the parents are leaders Lance and Lora Ercanbrack, Scoutmaster Steve Boyer and former leader John Rios. The troop is sponsored by the Church of Latter Day Saints in Libby.

Eagles Stepping Forward

Mark Curtiss, Caleb Broderick and Mike Curtiss listen as they are read the steps in achieving Eagle Scout rank.

BBT Tallmadge

Gage Tallmadge and Eureka’s Trey Bohne compete for a loose ball in the fourth quarter.

Chimney Fire

BBT Hickman

Junior guard Gabe Hickman lays it up for two after a Tanner Blankers turnover in the fourth quarter.

Montanore wetland mitigation progresses

Army Corps approval likely to advance EIS

Few know the frustration of the lengthy mine permitting process better than Montanore Minerals CEO and President Glenn Dobbs and Environmental Consultant Eric Klepfer, but the two were smiling Tuesday

Commissioners OK study on library move

Lincoln County Librarian Rick Ball wants to move the Libby Branch Library to the former Asa Wood Elementary School, and he said the right thing Wednesday to get a nod from commissioners to study the move.

State wrestling results

No Greenchain wrestlers were state champion this season, but several placers secured  Libby's ninth-place finish.

Pope Benedict XVI to step down

Pope Benedict XVI announced Monday that he will resign on Feb. 28. The 85-year-old pope announced his decision in Latin during a meeting of Vatican cardinals.

On The Street: What is your take on the city wildlife? Should deer be eradicated?

With the city dealing with wildlife issues in the city limits, this week's question on the street dealt with the rascally critters in town.

Stinger closure imminent

Bridge and span builder might shut doors in as little at two to three weeks

Stinger Welding employees were told that their jobs in Libby would be eliminated soon, the company’s vice president has been relieved of his day-to-day duties, and a financial group temporarily running the company’s operations is trying to determine the market value of Stinger’s remaining assets. 

MOS Willoughby

MOS Turnland

MOS Wiederhold

MOS Newman

MOS Arendt

MOS Cochran

Montanore Visit

Alan Gerstenecker, left, Glenn Dobbs, Eric Klepfer and Matt Bunk.

Montanore Dobbs

Glenn Dobbs, president and CEO of the Montanore Minerals Corp. meets Western News Publisher Matt Bunk Tuesday.

BBL Reichel

Senior guard Will Reichel scores in first quarter vs Eureka. (6-4)

BBL Krisanov

Taraski Krisanov enters the Libby version of the Arc de Triomphe Tuesday as the Loggers defeated Eureka's Lions 68-44.

Library Commission

Lincoln County Librarian Rick Ball discusses a possible library move to the old Asa Wood School. Looking on from left are Administrator Bill Bischoff and commissioners Tony Berget, Ron Downey and Mike Cole.

SJLH receives performance recognition

St. John’s Lutheran Hospital recently was awarded the Montana Rural Healthcare Performance Improvement Network’s Quality Improvement Award for its work in sepsis early-detection program.

Montanore Positive Action Committee sends letter to Bullock

Mystery quilt perplexes Troy Methodists

The Troy Methodist Women, a group attached to the Troy Methodist Church, gets donations to help it raise money for the Intermountain Children’s Home in Helena. 

Put away the gridlock: It's time to pass the Forest Jobs & Recreation Act

Letter to the Editor,

Big Winners at Chamber Banquet

DuMonts, Gilmores are final members standing

It was a packed Memorial Center on Satruday night as 188 people jammed the building for the annual Libby Area Chamber of Commerce Banquet and Fundraiser. The DuMonts — Barb and Dennis — and the Gilmores — Tom and Noelle — were the big winners in the drawing that paid $4,000 to the couples. The two couples agreed to share the pot, regardless of the outcome. Another big winner was Kit Clark, who spent “hundreds of dollars on tickets” for the bald eagle drawing. Clark is pictured at right with Kyle Svendsbye, who drew Clark’s ticket from the drum over Clark’s shoulder. Svendsbye, 7, gave $23 from his piggy bank for the eagle effort, too.

Guns are only a tool; we should be looking at our mental-health system

Letter to the Editor,

Trojans take Chiefs 43-38 in overtime

Troy’s boys basketball team was smacked by No. 1 Bigfork on Friday 67-22 but rebounded in a big way on its home court.

Group establishing Libby flying club

‘It’s a good way to get a pilot’s license,’ airport manager says

Two local aviators are trying to bring flying to the masses. 

Firearms discussion: Emotion aside, let's stay with the facts

Viola Rambo, 97, of Libby

Viola Rambo, 97, died on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, at her home in Libby. 

Revett: Blockage found at south adit

Hope to resume full mining in April

Revett Minerals officials have completed underground inspections from the south adit of the Troy Mine, and they found more groundfall, however, plans are being made to resume mining operations by April.

10 Greenchain wrestlers qualify for state tournament

Greenchain hasn’t had the easiest season. 

Ruth Delp, 84, formerly of Libby

Longtime Libby resident Ruth Delp, 94, died Jan. 28,  2013, at Meadow Park Health & Specialty Care Center in St. Helens, Ore. 

VP: Stinger not removing assets

Workers are hoping for resolution; concerns accelerated with CEO death

Entangled in litigation, Stinger Welding, Inc., the steel bridge and span builder with nearly four years of operation in Libby, is fighting for its life.

Recent minimum-wage increase bolsters lives of many in Montana

Letter to the Editor,

Second Amendment protected against tyranny

Letter to the Editor,

Trap & Skeet League Results

Mystery Quilt

Avis Winslow, of the Troy Methodist Women, holds the “mystery quilt” that was donated. She is trying to find information about the quilt, which could be more than 80 years old.

No new snow, but plenty of 'freshies' on Turner slopes

Turner Mountain ski area will have a chance this weekend to demonstrate its resilience, as snowfall has been sparse during the past few days and no new snow is predicted until late next week.

Libby Scatterguns Trap & Skeet League

Fisher River Fire & Rescue's purchase aids its readiness

Fisher River Valley Volunteer Fire & Rescue has received an Oceanid Rapid Deployment Craft (RDC) to assist in ice and water rescue.

Police Blotter: Jan. 15 - Jan. 23

Often well-meaning parents underestimate puppy challenges

U.S. now tied for last in the time it takes for mine permitting

Nordicfest seeking junior royalty

The Western News

Veterans, city advance effort in Riverfront Park agreement

The Western News

Cell-phone driving: Some communities begin cracking down

Distracted driving is dangerous driving, and few would argue that point. 

Wyman twins turn one-year old

Alyse and Lily Wyman, identical twin daughters of Nick and Amy Wyman of Victor, Mont., celebrated their first birthday Jan. 26.

Birth: Nuala Ostman

Nuala Ostman, daughter of Ayla Ostman and Dustin Haugen, was born Jan. 28 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Hailey Williamson

Hailey Williamson, daughter of Cassie and Derek Williamson of Libby, was born Jan. 19 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

On The Street: How would you feel if the Boy Scouts allowed gay children to join?

Last week, the Boy Scouts of America stated publicly that it was considering easing the ban it had on openly gay scouts to join its ranks.

Birth: Samuel Colt Pinkerton

Samuel Colt Pinkerton, son of Alyssa and Jim Pinkerton of Bonners Ferry, Idaho, was born Jan. 22 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Cason Schwegel

Cason Schwegel, son of Krista Byington and Nathan Schwegel of Libby, was born at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital on Jan. 21.

Michael L. Koskela, 50, formerly of Libby

Michael Leonard Koskela, 50, passed away in a car accident Jan. 27, 2013. Mike was born in Libby.

Doris L. Cozzi, 92, of Libby

Doris L. Cozzi, 92, died on Wednesday, Jan. 9, 2013, at her home in Libby.  

Eugene V. Koch, 70, of Troy

Eugene V. Koch, 70, a longtime Troy resident, died from natural causes Saturday Jan. 26, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.  

Present

The giant present in front of Ace Hardware came down Saturday afternoon...first sign of Spring?

Old Photo 2-5

Enjoying the Slopes Pam Anderson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Bill Anderson, was among those enjoying their first weekend on the slopes of Turner Mountain. The daughter of Libby's basketball coach said skiing was "great." A spokesman for Kootenai Winter Sports said there was about five feet of snow at the top of the run and a little more snow near the bottom would make skiing better. Turner just opened for skiing Saturday, a few weeks later than its usual opening because of the lack of snow. Photo from the Jan. 4, 1973, files of The Western News.

GBT Williams

Jordan Williams brings the ball down court and passes to Caitlin Johnston in third quarter vs. Ronan.

GBL Gilder

Kaitlyn Gilder left and Maura Kalbfleisch.

GBL England

Hannah England, left, junior guard Simone Craft.

BBT Metz

Bruce Metz control the rebound in first quarter vs. Ronan. Zachary Wagner right.

BBL Winslow

Junior guard Jared Winslow defensive rebound third quarter vs. Whitefish.

BBL Luscher

Lane Luscher runs into a Whitefish traffic jam in second quarter vs. Whitefish.

BBL Leggins

Dan Leggins with Keaton Nicholson in tow first quarter vs. Whitefish.

County considers eatery rankings

All that remains is OK of county health panel

During an evening dining out at a favorite restaurant, have you ever wondered just what it looks like in the kitchen?  So have others.

Rescuers respond to hurt snowmobiler

Tanya Griffith, 37, of Libby was flown out by Life Flight helicopter to Sandpoint, Idaho, after breaking her leg snowmobiling Sunday in the Yaak.

Fracul donates to Troy firefighters

Troy Volunteer Firefighter Dan Harvey and local artist Steph Fracul hold a carved piece of art Fracul donated to the Fire Department. The firefighters will raffle the carved salmon and grizzly bear sculpture to raise money. They plan to sell 1,000 tickets at $5 each for the intricate wood and antler sculpture. The majority of the money would go to the department’s effort to attend a fundraiser in Seattle for the Big Climb, a physical challenge that will raise money for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. 

Timber to jet fuel bio-mass project explained

Lincoln County commissioners on Wednesday heard from college engineering students who are participating in a bio-mass study project that could make jet fuel from timber and its byproducts.

Banning considers office

Recalled Troy mayor says he will renew bid to regain seat

Don Banning, former mayor of Troy, has announced plans to run for mayor again this fall.

One Year Old Wyman Lily

Lily Wyman

Bullock Legislature

Gov. Steve Bullock talks about tax laws in his State of the State address Wednesday evening Jan. 30, 2013 in the House Chambers. Bullock promised on Wednesday to "change the tone" in the Capitol as he asked a Legislature led by opposition Republicans to help him in cutting taxes, fixing the state pension system, increasing education funding, expanding Medicaid and shedding light on the so-called "dark money" flooding politics. (AP Photo/The Independent Record, Dylan Brown)

One Year Old Wyman alyse

Alyse Wyman

MOS Roever

MOS Meizenburg

MOS Moe

MOS Lewis

MOS DeShazer

MOS Baker

Banning Mug

Don Banning

Commissioners Bio Mass

Lincoln County commissioners Ron Downey and Tony Berget listen as Washington State University Civil Engineering students Blake Nelson and Steven Williams use visual aids to explain the details of a bio-mass study during their meeting Wednesday. Also listening is Kootenai River Development Council Deputy Director Brigid Burke, left.