Ellington

Police Blotter: March 24- March 25

Seventeen winter athletes make all-conference

Seventeen athletes in Libby and Troy made all-conference teams for winter sports – boys and girls basketball and wrestling. 

Loggers rich with experience; ladies tennis fighting uphill battle

Local couple purchases Rodeway Inn

After sitting vacant during the winter, Libby’s Rodeway Inn might have new owners.

Both sides claim win in Hubbard case

The case of Rob G. Hubbard v. Lincoln County took a step closer to its June trial date Wednesday afternoon, as U.S. Magistrate Jeremiah C. Lynch in Missoula listened to motions filed by Hubbard and the defense attorney Greg Bonilla for three hours.

Research the program, Life of An Athlete; it's an idea for improvement

Letter to the Editor,

Mayor Roll should be commended for getting it right

Way to go, Mayor Doug Roll, for doing the right thing after all. 

Birth: Judy RosaLynn Patton-Huffman

Judy RosaLynn Patton-Huffman, daughter of Chawnee Patton and Brandon Huffman of Libby, was born March 18 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Joseph Dean Richter

Joseph Dean Richter, son of Brittany Chumley and James Richter of Libby, was born March 16 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

EPA mulling decision on community outreach approach

Although interest and public participation has waned heavily during the last year and a half, government officials say a rumor to limit Environmental Protection Agency meetings in Lincoln County is patently untrue.

Five Generations: Hildreth-Blow-Woody-Huffman

World War II veteran Ralph Hildreth celebrated his 99th birthday recently with family members. Relatives of five generations gathered for a ceremony. In the photo are Hildreth’s daughter, Sandra Blow, standing behind. From left is great- great-grandson Evan Woody, great-granddaughter Brandi Woody, Hildreth and his granddaughter Sheri Huffman. Hildreth has three daughters,14 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and seven great- great-grandchildren. 

Welch gets a 20-year prison term

Will receive credit for time served in jail

Kristina Lynn Welch, the 54-year-old woman who accepted a plea bargain for the shooting death of her husband, was sentenced Thursday in Judge James B. Wheelis’ courtroom to 20 years in a state prison.

Welch Confers

Kristina Lynn Welch confers with her attorney, Jennifer Streano, on Thursday.

Welch

A tearful Kristina Lynn Welch post sentencing, her attorney Jennifer Streano, right.

THS Play

Alanah True-Silva as Amy Sweet, and Spencer Swimley as Sheriff Johnny Straightshooter in Troy High School's production of "Sundown Alley."

THS Play Curry

Michaela Curry as Norma Desperate...she's not a star, she's a galaxy.

Tennis Team

Libby’s tennis teams are poised to make a mark on Northwest A Conference play, despite an early loss to a “salty” Polson team.

Tennis Myslicki

Ian Edwards-Myslicki swats back a ball at practice Thursday afternoon. Edwards-Myslicki is part of the No. 1 doubles team, along with fellow senior Lane Luscher.

Farnham Grand

Jason Farnham takes a spin on his Schoenhut "baby grand" Friday evening at the Memorial Center.

Farnham

Jason Farnham entertained an audience of 124 Friday night at the Memorial Center opening the evening with Vince Guaraldi's "Linus and Lucy."

Award Haugen

Wrestling coach Kelly Morford left and award recipient Mitch Haugen right. Winter activities awards assembly, March 6, 2013.

Frozen Falls

DCF 1.0

Tribes seek trust for land near falls

8.3-acre tract bought in 1989

A certified letter from the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes received by Lincoln County commissioners seeks to establish a trust for 8.3 acres near Kootenai Falls.

County likely to have Rural School funding recalled because of sequestration

Bill's intent is to end the confusion of physician-assisted suicide

Letter to the Editor,

Kalispell man faces teen assault charges

A 20-year-old Kalispell man who police say assaulted an 18-year-old high school student at the student’s home has been charged with felony criminal endangerment.

Ex-undersheriff says PTSD led to drugs

 A former Glacier County undersheriff says post-traumatic stress disorder led to drug abuse and his inability to continue in his job.

Young Lady Trojans eye divisionals for first time

The Lady Trojans softball team may be young, but what they lack in experience, they are trying to make up for in spirit.

Birth: Winston Jay Stoddard

Winston Jay Stoddard, son of Matthew and Julia Stoddard of Libby, was born Feb. 28 at Family Birth Services Birthing Suite in Libby.

President Obama's support for Israel during Mideast trip is questioned

Letter to the Editor,

Scatterguns wrap up another season

Another Lincoln County trap and skeet winter league is in the books, and for the third consecutive year a record number of shooters competed.

School Board extends offer to VanWorth-Rogers

   Libby School District Board members on Wednesday agreed to offer a contract to Libby High School Principal candidate Ruth Ann VanWorth-Rogers, the former Bakersfield, Calif., administrator.

Police Blotter: March 20 - March 23

Rise in prostitution prompts legislation

HELENA — Montana lawmakers are looking at ways to prevent and punish human trafficking in response to reports of increased prostitution in eastern Montana communities teeming with people who have come to find work in the Bakken oil boom.

High court to hear stream access case

Associated Press

Troy bests Badgers, 14-6, 13-11

Amid flurries of snow, the Lady Trojans softball team was blazing hot at the plate, beating out-of-state opponent Bonners Ferry 14-6 and 13-11.

Birth: Aries Schiller

Aries Schiller, son of Ashlee and Johnathan Schiller of Libby, was born March 4 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Annual race from ski hill to the Red Dog culiminates season

Seven teams competed at the 2013 Top to Dog relay race on Saturday.

Contest will determine a name for new hospital

Letter to the Editor,

Residents split on new fire district

Indebtedness, existing service stirs concerns of CV residents concerns

As a group of residents south of Libby begin efforts to establish a new fire district in the dissolved Cabinet View Fire Service Area, other residents of the area are quick to say “not so fast.”

Easter egg hunts scheduled Saturday

Easter egg hunts are scheduled in the area this Saturday.

Horse herpes diagnosed in Flathead

The Daily Inter Lake

Hubbard case sees motion

The Western News

Birth: Andrew Oz Pennock

Andrew Oz Pennock, son of Robbee Campbell and Joe Pennock of Libby, was born March 6 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Jerry Wayne Thorsrud, 29, of Libby

Jerry Wayne Thorsrud, 29, passed away Saturday, March 23, 2013.

Milo Harry Smith, 79, of Libby

Milo Harry Smith, 79, of Libby passed away from natural causes Thursday, March 21, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital. 

Charis J. Gambill, 86, of Troy

Charis J. Gambill, 86, died Friday, March 22, 2013, at her home in Troy.  

School board conducts final LHS principal interviews

After two interview sessions with candidates for Libby High School principal, Libby School Board members will soon come to a decision on whom to offer a contract.

Veterans break park ground to honor all those who serve

Lincoln County veterans finally got their day in the sun, and, oh, what a beautiful spring day it was.

Middle school concert is today

The Libby Middle School will mark “Music In Our Schools” month with a concert beginning at 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 26, at Libby Elementary School Gymnasium.

Troy Farmer's Market plans a May 10 launch

In seeking a healthy, happy community, Shawna Kelsey of the Yaak Valley Forest Council has plans underway for a Farmer’s Market in Troy to begin in May.

Libby Video Club seeks donations to add channels

Libby Video Club recently resolved to make one of Libby’s best-kept secrets even better.

Ski Karen

Karen Alexander, a ski patroller at Turner Mountain, carves deeply into the fresh powder that coated the mountain just in time for the annual Top to Dog race Saturday, March 23. 

Ski Perry

Perry Stebbins, who runs Perry’s Powder Palace rental shop at Turner Mountain, completes the downhill portion of the Top to Dog race as onlookers cheer him on. 

Ski Ben

Ben Bernal, right, enjoys a beer in the Red Dog parking lot after completing the Top to Dog race. He did all four phases of the race by himself and still had the best time of all teams that competed.

Softball Team

The Troy softball team stands for a team picture after sweeping a doubleheader against Bonners Ferry. The Lady Trojans, a young, scrappy squad, have sights set on divisionals and maybe even state for the first time in program history.

Softball Thill

Base hit Tana Thill bottom of the fourth, first of a doubleheader vs. Bonners Ferry.

Old Photo Too 3-26-13

June BrideÑ Mr. and Mrs. Henry Fisher have announced the engagement of their daughter, Sherry, to Robert Beagle, son of Mr. and Mrs. O.T. Beagle. A June wedding is planned. Photo from the April 11, 1963, files of The Western News.

Old Photo 3-26-13

Aim for that One Jonathan Kienas, left, a six-year-old first grader at St. John Lutheran School points out a good shot to recess buddies David Teska, a first grader, and Clyde Ross, a second grader at the school. The three boys came prepared for the springtime weather during recess Tuesday afternoon. Photo from the March 1, 1973, files of The Western News.

Youth Trap Shooters

Tanner Schatz, left, was second and Roy Hyde was the top youth shooter.

Top Trap Shooters

The top Libby Scatterguns trap shooters of the year include from left, Mike Cirian, first, Al Corda, second, and Dick Brown, third. Tom Bailey (not pictured) was the top trap shooter of the league.

First to 25 Trap

Ken Farmer was the first to shoot 25-for-25 in league competition. Fellow shooters all took shots at Farmer’s hat when Cirian tossed it in the air.

Koocanusa One

Taken from a lookout 3.5 miles up Forest Development Road #228.

Heritage Museum buys Shay for $1

International Paper sells the 1906 engine for dollar-menu price

Charlotte R. Managhan, 92, of Libby

Charlotte R. Managhan, 92, passed away peacefully of natural causes, with her three loving children, Linda, Mike and Marcia, by her side,  on Monday, March 18, 2013 at her home in Libby.  

Police Blotter: March 16 - March 20

County jobless rate 17.2 percent

Latest means nearly 1-in-6 unemployed

Lincoln County’s unemployment rate rose to 17.2 percent in January, the highest in 12 months.

Filipino restaurant plans May 1 opening

Buffet-style will feature the national cuisine

An empty building on California Avenue will soon have a new tenant, as a Filipino restaurant set to open by May 1 will occupy the old La Casa de Amigos building. 

Stinger files for bankruptcy

Chapter 11 filing seeks protection from creditors, including locals

Stinger Welding, Inc., the span and bridge builder that during its heyday employed more than 100 workers in Libby, has filed for Chapter 11 protection under the U.S. Bankruptcy code.

Regional Williams

Former Congressman Pat Williams, lower right, speaks before a state Senate committee asking for support for his nomination to the Board of Regents on Wednesday, March 20, 2013 in Helena, Mont. (AP Photo/Matt Gouras)

Regional Oil Rig

Workers operate a drilling rig in Frederick, Colo., on Friday, March 8, 2013. City Council members are split over how to regulate oil and gas drilling in Colorado Springs. An ordinance to establish rules for drilling died Tuesday after a four-to-four council vote. Oil and gas companies will still be able to drill in the city based on state regulations. (AP Photo/Ed Andrieski)

House Budget

Republican Rep. Roy Hollandsworth, right, looks over budget numbers on Tuesday, March 6, 2013, in Helena, Mont., as House Appropriations Committee chairman Duane Ankney introduces the state's main spending bill. (AP Photo/Matt Gouras)

MOS Nixon

MOS Thatcher

MOS Larsen

MOS Brown

MOS Jellesed

MOS Applegate

Widow of Stinger CEO seeks Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection

  The widow of Carl Douglas, the CEO of Stinger Welding, Inc., who died Dec. 19 when his plane crashed into Swede Mountain, has sought bankruptcy protection from creditors.

It's time to simplify tax code

Letter to the Editor, 

Remington buys Kalispell gun manufacturer

KALISPELL, Mont. (AP) — Remington Arms Co. has acquired a northwestern Montana manufacturer of firearm barrels and actions.

Mild winter puts SJLH construction ahead

A mild winter without building setbacks has put construction of St. John’s Lutheran Hospital about five months ahead of schedule.

Anne Pescatore, 85, of Libby

Anne S. Pescatore, 85, of Libby passed away of natural causes Wednesday March 13, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.  

Veterans deserving of Medicaid expansion

Letter to the Editor,

W.F. Morrison principal is fired; no reason given by board

In a surprising unanimous vote last Monday, the Troy School Board decided not to renew the contract of W.F. Morrison Principal Kelly Moore.

House panel hears bill to decriminalize gay sex

Associated Press

Police Blotter: March 14 - March 15

We need to keep watching the Lincoln County Port Authority

Letter to the Editor,

Ethel N. Hurlbert, 85, of Libby

Ethel N. Hurlbert, 85, of Libby passed away Sunday, March 17, 2013, at the Libby Care Center.  

Wilfrid R. Mills, 80, of Libby

Wilfrid R. “John” Mills passed to our Lord on Wednesday March 13, 2013, peacefully at his home in Libby. 

Group urges new fire district

Cabinet View residents get go-ahead to pursue initial petition

Going against advice of legal counsel, Lincoln County Commissioners have met with a group of Cabinet View-area residents seeking to establish a fire district.

Local student travels to Galapagos, Amazon

From her early life in the City of Eagles to Darwin’s finches on the Galapagos Islands, birds have played an important role in Chelsey Oedewaldt’s life.

Birth: Brady Edward Moen

Brady Edward Moen, son of Brandie Ehlenfeldt and Dan Moen of Libby, was born March 4 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: EllyOnna Lee Wood

EllyOnna Lee Wood, daughter of Arionna Benke-Smith and Gary Wood of Libby, was born March 1 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Old Photo 3-19

Mallards Marching What do you do with seven drakes and four ducks blocking traffic in the Empire Foods parking lot? You offer them bread and lead them to safety in your back yard. ThatÕs what four-year-old Katie Marshall and her parents did Saturday. If youÕd like to claim your ducks contact the Marshalls. Chuck Blair photo from the March 10, 1993, files of The Western News

Old Photo Too 3-19

Mayor-elect Winfrey at work Earle D. Winfrey, Jr., chosen Monday to serve as mayor for the next two years, was caught by The Western News photographer as he worked in the greenhouse at Libby Floral. a resident of Libby since 1939, Winfrey graduated from Libby High School in 1944. He served in the Army for two years and was in Europe with the 99th Infantry Division. Returning to Libby after World War II, he worked at the local Ford garage and operated a service station until he started in the floral business in 1956. He is married to the former Alice McRell, and they have two daughters. A past president of the Libby Jaycees, Winfrey has served on the city council since 1961 and is president of the council. Photo from the April 4, 1963, files of The Western News.

Oedewaldt Chelsey

Libby native Chelsey Oedewaldt has studied biology in the Galapagos Islands and in the Amazon River region of Ecuador. Here she is bundled up in the Paramo ecosystem in the Andes.

Blue-footed booby

Oedewaldt took this photo of a blue-footed booby preening itself in the Galapagos Islands.

Cabinet View Fire District

The Cabinet View Fire District group met with commissioners on Wednesday.

Western Windshield

Mobile Service!

Western Windshield 2

Quality Auto Glass Repair and Replacement

Montana rate payers deserve the scrutiny, even of PSC members

Every Montanan knows the experience of opening the utility bill and wondering how the rates were decided. Paying those bills is a challenge for many Montana families.

Hotel Libby busy behind the doors

Besides turning into a film set on Saturdays, Hotel Libby is a hotbed for other activity.

Annastacia S. Pescatore, 85, of Libby

Annastacia S. Pescatore, 85, of Libby died Wednesday March 13, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital from natural causes.  

Seattle immigrant groups file lawsuits

Associated Press

Former owner of the Dome Theater deserves better, feels story was unfair to her efforts

Letter to the Editor,

George Hartl, Jr., 78, of Libby

George A. Hartl, Jr., 78, of Libby passed away of natural causes March 13, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.  

Bill seeks tax hike for wealthy, a cut for others

Associated Press

Investigate the program 'Life of an Athlete' before approval

Letter to the Editor,

School Board announces cuts as it looks toward levy

The large cuts faced by the Libby School Board reared their collective heads at Monday’s meeting as 14 district employee contracts were not renewed.

Book signing Saturday at Libby Library branch

  Libby author David F. Latham will be at the Libby Library beginning at 2 p.m. Saturday, March 16, to sign copies of his book "Breakdown."

Avenues for tax-avoidance are a big part of the elite's agenda

Letter to the Editor,

The Rev. Jacob Jacobson, 82, of Libby

The Rev. Jacob Edwin Jacobson, 82, quietly slipped away at his Libby home on March 11, 2013, to be with the Lord who he passionately served.

Loggers look to youth after loss of seniors

After being brushed aside by two teams with inertia in the Northwestern A district tournament, the Libby Loggers boys basketball team will lose a wealth of talent to graduation.

Obama: Keystone jobs exaggerated

Associated Press

Illegals

ADVANCE FOR USE MONDAY, FEB. 25, 2013 AND THEREAFTER - FILE - In this Oct. 14 1991 file photo, a group of illegal Mexican immigrants jump from a border fence to enter the United States, near Tijuana, Mexico. With new fencing and tougher enforcement the 1,954-mile border with Mexico is more difficult to breach than ever. (AP Photo/Lenny Ignelzi)

Movie Short

ShadowHouse Films' Robert Newman, right, records as Darren Short draws a bead on the man exiting the north door of Hotel Libby as filming of the movie "Doon Service" continued Saturday night.

Movie Matanane

Actor Mighet Matanane exits Hotel Libby into a "hail of gun fire" Saturday as Robert Newman films this scene from "Doon Service."

Movie Kelly

Teri Rayome-Kelly, left, and ShadowHouse Films’ Robert Newman prepare to shoot a scene from “Doom Service” Saturday night. It is Rayome-Kelly’s first movie experience.

Movie Darren

ShadowHouse Films' Robert Newman, right, records as Darren Short draws a bead on the man exiting the north door of Hotel Libby as filming of the movie "Doon Service" continued Saturday night.

Hoops Lapka

Senior forward Barak Lapka scores against T-Falls Jan. 10.

Hoops Jared

Jared jump shot in first quarter vs. T-Falls 1-10-13

Grand Teton revises elk hunt after grizzly bear encounters

CHEYENNE, Wyo. — Grand Teton National Park officials on Wednesday announced several changes to the park’s annual elk hunt, including the closing of an area where a grizzly bear mauled an elk hunter in 2011 and where two elk hunters killed a grizzly that charged them last fall.

Police Blotter March 2 - March 13

School district gives librarian green light to proceed

18-month commitment agreement allows library to choose how to utilize Asa Wood

The plan to lease the vacant Asa Wood property to Lincoln County Public Libraries has taken its first major step toward becoming reality.

Former resident is concerned about the tone of Dome article

Letter to the Editor,

Crazy Days set for this Saturday

Turner Mountain Ski Area will host its annual Crazy Days event on Saturday, March 16. 

Library Anna Doyle

Librarian Assistant Anna Doyle sits among the books that must be recorded before being sent to branch libraries in Troy and Eureka. Librarian Rick Ball has indicated the current library lacks the necessary space for storage and cataloging.

11-year FVCC tax shirked

County-owned building taxes reach $41,937 with penalties

Back taxes and fees with interest that total $41,937.30 for the Lincoln County campus of Flathead Valley Community College appears to be a clerical issue that can be resolved by a vote of commissioners.

'Galloping Griz' food truck arrives on campus

Associated Press

HB 505 will help prevent abuse of the elderly, protect all Montanans

Letter to the Editor,

Accident averted: Shooter fires rifle while others downrange at complex

County, Rod & Gun Club say flag, beacon could be solution

Sometimes even a good idea needs a little tweaking, and that’s the best way to describe improvements being made to the rifle range at the Lincoln County Shooting Complex.

Judge: Conservative papers given properly

Associated Press

Outpouring follows death of TV sports host

Associated Press

Serving on school board gives people a chance to serve district's students

DPHHS bureau chief explains benefit program to officials

The Western News

Contribute to the food pantry

Letter to the Editor,

Good to see city and veterans finally sign agreement to bring memorial to Riverfront Park

I’m pleased to see that the city council and veterans foundation have come to an agreement on the veterans memorial. Montana per capita is one of the largest contributors to our armed forces, and Libby has sent its fair share to serve. I am a grandson of two veterans and a son of another. My sister and I are currently serving. Together as a family we have been to war in Europe, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq. Our story is not unique from others in Libby. 

Kootenai Valley Collision closes

Kootenai Valley Collision, the auto-body repair business located at 314 Montana Ave., has closed its doors.

Birth: Brody Laffoon

Brody Lee Laffoon, son of Malarie and Brandon Laffoon of Libby, was born Feb. 21 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Redevelopment draft plan for former paper mill site released

Associated Press

Noxon Red Devils deserve the respect of a talented program

Letter to the Editor,

The will of the people doesn't mean jack to drug warriors

The Associated Press reports that eight former DEA administrators are urging the Obama administration to sue Washington and Colorado over their voter-approved moves toward  marijuana legalization.

Lester R. Spain, 73, of Your Town

Lester R. Spain, 73, passed away after an extended illness at home on March 1, 2013.  

Gregory G. Daniell, 3 days, of Libby

Gregory Glen Daniell, 3 days old, went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Friday, March 8, 2013, at his home in Libby. 

Carol A. Graham, 80, formerly of Libby

Carol Arlene Graham of Bonita Springs, Fla., died Jan. 27, 2013, at Joanne’s House Hospice in Bonita Springs, Fla.

Engagement: VanderVoorden-Asche

Robert and Wilda VanderVoorden of Libby announce the engagement of their daughter, Lynnette Lee VanderVoorden of Bozeman, to Scott Allen Asche of Bozeman, son of Dennis and the late Marlene Asche of Le Mars, Iowa. 

Mines more environmentally friendlier now than in the past

In the letter to the editor expressing concern for the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness, I love the mountain range, too. My wife and I have spent a lot of time hiking in this scenic area.

Dome Theater: Under New Ownership

Tree-pruning help offered March 23

As homeowners get out this spring, it’s time to think about caring for yards, and that includes tree pruning.

Gun-rights measures head to Montana Senate

HELENA, Mont. (AP) — A pair of pro-gun measures approved by the Montana House hit the Senate Wednesday, including one that would prohibit local authorities from enforcing any federal ban on semi-automatic weapons.

Rodriguez

Gregory Rodriguez

Old Photo 3-12

AmandaÕs Friends Dallas Hurtig gives a tug and Asa Wood School classmates, including Ashlee Heinlein, push a wagon full of money for Hour Amanda to Glacier Bank on Wednesday. The kindergartners were entrusted with $294.86 raised by all the students at the school to benefit Amanda Johnson who is suffering from a heart condition and will need expensive heart surgery next month. Mrs. Anne Walker was one of two teachers accompanying the students. Roger Morris photo from the March 5, 1993, files of The Western News.

Dome Art

Jamie Arnold inspects a roll of 35mm film in the projector room of the Dome Theater on Monday. She and her husband, Charles, are raising money to pay for a new digital projector after buying the theater March 8.

ShamRockers

The ShamRockers performed Saturday evening at the Memorial Center.

Flint Knapper

Bob Gray of Libby displayed his flintknapping treasures made of flint and obsidian.

Kilted Boy

Caleb Wilkinson played an electronic flute.

Green Pair

It’s safe to say Deb Frey and Neil Bernardy shared the Irish spirit.

Dancer

Annie Wilkinson performed various dance routines. In this one she wore a green outfit and danced ballet.

Rifle Range

A warning flag at the firing line signifying someone is downrange likely will be added in the coming days. 

Dome Sale

Jamie and Taylor Arnold were working Saturday at the Dome Theater. They started a Facebook page to generate community interest in restoring the 65-year-old theater.

Youthful Lady Loggers reloaded

It was a team brimming with promise at the beginning of the season, but the Libby girls basketball team was quickly beset with injuries, problems and frustrations.

Code of conduct rule to be adopted by high schools

Birth: Thaddeus Jaxson

Thaddeus Jaxson, son of Corey Willis of Libby, was born Feb. 20 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Bigfork painter celebrates Norwegian heritage

KALISPELL, Mont. (AP) — Alice Brosten spends hours experiencing Norwegian artistic heritage firsthand as she brushes colorful rosemaling along a huge beam in her home in Bigfork.

A pundit's fun guide to names for the new 113th Congressional assembly

I never gave much thought to Congressional names until Anthony Weiner hit the headlines in 2011, as a disgraced member of the do-nothing 112th Congress. 

New pistol range is a good-news testament of cooperation

Business closings. Strife at City Hall. High unemployment. Rising national debt. It’s enough to challenge even the president of the Optimists Club.

Engagement: Johnson-Volkers

Steven and Julie Johnson of Libby announce the engagement of their daughter, Heather LeAnn Johnson, to Kory Michael Volkers, son of Andrew and Collene Volkers of Libby.

Police Blotter: Feb. 25 - March 2

County attorney will not pursue case against Mayor Roll

Asked to pursue an action of conflict of interest against Libby Mayor Doug Roll by City Councilman Allen Olsen, Lincoln County Attorney Bernard Cassidy has indicated those charges will not be forthcoming.

County wins BLFD case

Judge decides fire district must follow county lead

For the second time in nine months, Lincoln County has won a legal decision against a fire department within its jurisdiction that sought a definition of self-governance and expansion of services.

Dome Theater is sold; new owner hopes to reopen in two months

  Libby will soon again have a movie theater.

Painter

Alice Brosten applies paint to a large rosemaling mural Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013 in Bigfork. Brosten spends hours experiencing Norwegian artistic heritage firsthand as she brushes colorful rosemaling along a huge beam in her home in Bigfork. 

MOS Raper

MOS Weatherby

MOS Messick

MOS Hjort

MOS Goodrich

MOS Crismore

Kootenai Valley Collision

Kootenai Valley Collision, located at 314 Montana Ave., closed its doors in February. The business operated for nearly four years.

Judge McNeil Too

20th Judicial District Judge C.B. McNeil

Judge C.B. McNeil

20th Judicial District Judge C.B. McNeil

Judge McNeil

20th Judicial District Judge C.B. McNeil

Irish Fair

Moriah Probert of the Sole Expressions Dancers kicks up her heals during Libby's 17th Annual Irish Fair Sunday evening at the Memorial Center.

Irish Fair Too

Moriah Probert, left, and Emily Wilson of the Sole Expressions Dancers

Hoops Craig Hailey

Sophomore guard Hailey Craig keeps the ball from going out of bounds in Libby’s matchup with Troy in January. Craig was co-MVP with fellow sophomore guard Hannah England.

Hoops Craig

Sophomore Hailey Craig fouled vs. Frenchtown 2-15-13. 2 for 2 from the line makes it 16-14 Loggers 2nd quarter.

Please remember, and help, our troops; we should show our thanks for all our freedoms

Letter to the Editor,

Fisher Douglas James Garland

Fisher Douglas James Garland, son of Ashley and Cody Garland of Libby, was born Feb. 19 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Comments will be accepted for two weeks in asbestos case

The Western News

With apologies to Paul Harvey, 'So, God made a logger'

Little Guy Wrestling Winners and Local

Prenatal equine care is a healthy necessity for both the mare and foal

Winter often seems a cold and dormant time, but late February and early March brings a hint of the spring to come and the first of the year’s new foals.

Judith A. Siefke, 73, of Libby

Judith A. Siefke, 73, of Libby passed away of natural causes on Feb. 28, 2013.

Berget concerned about cuts on firefighting

Potential cuts to wildfire budget concerns county

Lincoln County Presiding Commissioner Tony Berget knew he would have Kootenai National Forest Supervisor Paul Bradford’s ear during a recent meeting, and he wasted no time in asking about the effects of sequestration on the county’s woodlands.

Lincoln Theatre Fundraiser

The Lincoln Theatre pancake breakfast fundraiser on Saturday raised $790.31 for a new digital progector. The fundraiser was held at the Troy Veterans of Foreign Wars Post. The theater has been showing movies since 1924. The Dome Theater in Libby has closed, and it, too, needs a digital projector.

Statewide wolf kill reaches 223; guidelines cited

Associated Press

Former Grizzlies' quarterback Johnson acquitted of rape charges

Associated Press

Police Blotter: Feb. 18 - Feb. 25

Lawmakers seek answers to bison management, allow hunting

HELENA — The Montana Legislature will consider year-round bison hunting and prohibitions on the animals’ movements amid a slew of bison-related measures to be tackled during the second half of the legislative session.

Sheriff, officials named in lawsuit face trial

Plaintiff alleges county wrongdoing

Former Libby resident Rob Hubbard has spent two years working on a lawsuit  filed against several Lincoln County officials. It is fast approaching its time in a Missoula federal court.

The strategic defeat of labor: your government at work

The decline of organized labor,   from more than 30 percent of non-farm, private-sector workers in the ’50s to around 6 percent today, is often presented as something that “just happened” — a spontaneous fact of nature beyond human control, like glaciation or asteroid strikes. 

Birth: Braxton Fairbrother

Braxton Fairbrother, son of Artesia Fairbrother of Libby, was born Feb. 24 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.

Birth: Nattalie Goldston

Nattalie Goldston, daughter of Brittanie Vanmeter and Cody Goldston of Libby, was born Jan. 25 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.

Joseph Applegate, 85, of Chesterfield, Va.

Joseph Lyle Applegate, 85, of Chesterfield, Va., went to be with the Lord on Feb. 27, 2013. 

City Council, veterans sign contract for veterans memorial at park

A veterans group that has worked for months to get approval from the city to build a war memorial at Riverfront Park finally got what it wanted. 

Judge weighs BLVFD suit

Attorneys submit paperwork to decide fire district’s standing

The Bull Lake Fire District and Lincoln County got one step closer to determining who has oversight authority over the rural fire department by submitting their written arguments to a district court judge last week. 

Wrestle Reatz

Alexander Reatz,4, by pin over Trent Vansehoyck, 5 at Peewee 40 Saturday during the Kootenai Klassic little guy wrestling tournament.

Wrestle Hanson C

Peewee wrestler Cayla Hanson, 6, vs C-Falls

Wrestle Hanson

Peewee wrestler Cayla Hanson, 6, gets a few tips from coach Alan Carmignani Saturday during her match with Columbia Falls.

Three Wolves

Three shot wolves were brought to Mercer Custom Taxidermy. The wolves were part of Montana’s total killed 223 wolves.

Wrestle Curtis

Davon Curtis by pin over Riley Uhde of Kalispell at Beginner 50.

KVCS Presentation

The FINDerS Club, an educational endeavor sponsored by Sons of Norway and Nordicfest, held their monthly meeting at Kootenai Valley Christian School. The topic was Denmark. Special guest Rasmus Fredborg, an exchange student, answered questions from the second- and third-graders in Linda Coleson’s class. Freda Howard, Sons of Norway and Nordicfest Board member, has been the club’s director since 2008.

Regional Johnson

FILE - In this Sept. 10, 2011 file photo, Montana quarterback Jordan Johnson (10) scrambles against Cal Poly during an NCAA college football game in Missoula, Mont. Jury selection in the trial for Johnson, charged in the rape of a friend while the two were watching a movie at her apartment, is scheduled to begin Friday, Feb. 8, 2013. (AP Photo/Michael Albans, File)

NRA Schnackenberg

Ruth Corda, left, helps lucky winner Denise Schnackenberg choose from a table full of items Friday during the NRA banquet.

NRA Orr

Mike Munro looks on as Todd Orr tries his luck at high-low poker for a chance to win a Weatherby .300 Win Mag. Dealer is Mike Cirian.

NRA Fiddle

The Charlie Daniels-signed violin, one of 1,100, garnered $525 during the live auction Friday night.

NRA Fiddle Too

Jordan Refsland displays the Charlie Daniels-signed violin that went on the auction block Friday night during the NRA banquet. (1 of 1,100)

NRA Decker

Master of Ceremonies Joe Crismore introduces Mark Decker to the “mystery gun” he won Friday night during the Friends of the NRA Banquet and Fundraiser at the Memorial Center. Decker and others took a chance on a ticket to win a Taurus 1911.

NRA Brayson

Brayson Orr, 4, wasted no time in making his choice for a radio-controlled airplane as his lucky number was drawn on the youth table.

Park Apartments Photo 5

Bathroom

Park Apartments Photo 4

Kitchen

Park Apartments Photo 3

Dining Room

Trojans finish season at 8-14, are optimistic for next season

After graduating several tall seniors in 2012, this season was supposed to be a rebuilding year for the Troy boys basketball team.

Jack A. Drake, 69, of Libby

Jack A. Drake, 69, of Libby died after a brief illness on Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2013, at his home.  

Senate backs rollback on eminent domain

Associated Press

Man accused of fatal shooting

BILLINGS — A 23-year-old man suspected of shooting at his father outside his Lockwood business early on Jan. 29 has been arrested.

Profits plummet for Schweitzer-targeted firm

Associated Press

Bill requires parental consent for abortions

Associated Press

March Senior Menu

Night Ranger, Kip Winger, Copper Mountain Band set for CARD concert

Night Ranger, the popular band with more than 30 years of performing and sales of more than 17 million albums sold, is coming to Libby.

Water-rights compact forwards plan to Legislature for approval

The Montana Reserved Water Rights Compact Commission (RWRCC) has agreed to send a version of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes – Montana water compact to the 2013 Legislature. 

Police Blotter: Feb. 14 - Feb. 18

Heavy snowfall returns Turner to its previous glory

The past two weeks of heavy snow in the mountains broke a trend of warm weather that was threatening to close Turner Mountain earlier than planned. 

More questions for city leaders

Letter to the Editor,

Welch sentencing delayed until March 28

A sentencing hearing for a Lincoln County woman who has admitted to killing her husband was postponed until later this month after a judge determined the defense attorney had not been given enough time to review a pre-sentencing report. 

Who do you think should win the free-speech lottery?

There is a fair amount of conjecture surrounding one of the bills I am sponsoring in the 63rd legislative session, Senate Bill 320. The bill is controversial and unconstitutional, and that is exactly why I brought it forward, because I felt it is a discussion we needed to have. Please take a few minutes with me and allow me to explain. 

Amanda G. Wise, 30, of Libby

Amanda Gayle Wise, 30 passed away on Feb. 24, 2013, at her home in Libby. 

Revett CEO: No new setbacks

Troy Mine still looking at April work resumption, Shanahan says

Lincoln County commissioners anticipated hearing from Revett officials on Wednesday about progress on the Troy Mine, but they didn’t expect to get it from CEO and President John Shanahan.

On The Street: Were Mayor Roll's actions to repair a city truck appropriate or inappropriate?

This week's question centers on Libby Mayor Doug Roll receiving city money for work on a city vehicle.

Libby, and the nation, must get back to the basics - resource extraction

Letter to the Editor,

Arnold E. Urbick 97, formerly of Libby

Arnold E. Urbick, 97, passed away Feb. 13, 2013. 

Patricia K. Winn, 76, of Libby

Patricia K. Winn, 76, went to be with the Lord Saturday night, Feb. 23, 2013.  

Irish Fair slated for March 9

The 18th annual Libby Irish Fair is scheduled for Saturday, March 9, at the Memorial Center.

Vincent bill to limit corporate campaign spending advances

Associated Press

Troy quilters plan two Saturday teaching events

The Tender Lovin’ Quilters of Troy are hosting their annual Quilting 101 Day on Saturday, March 2, at the Troy United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. 

Boom Town: Troy shows signs of growth

New businesses, hotel takes shine to growing Troy

There’s something about doing business in Troy.

Welch

Troy Mini Mart

Troy’s Mini Mart and the Holiday Motel behind it look empty from the outside, but are bustling within as Mike DuPerault and a crew of workers have been cleaning and refurbishing for the grand opening – as near as the end of this month.

Troy RAW Business

Karen Anderson works at her computer at Real Art Works in Troy. The business, a high-end co-op, has flourished amid tough economic times in Lincoln County.

Ex Governor Brian Schweitzer

FILE - In this Sept. 6, 2012, file photo, then-Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer addresses the Democratic National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. In February 2013, the former governor is partnering with a New York hedge fund to launch a proxy battle for control of a precious metals mining company that’s been criticized for sinking millions of dollars into foreign acquisitions. Drawing parallels with the Montana’s famed Anaconda Mining Company, a copper industry giant that cratered after much of its foreign assets were taken over by the Chilean government, Schweitzer said he’s intervening to save Stillwater Mining Co. from a similar fate owing to questionable investments in copper in Argentina and platinum in Canada. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)

MOS Rosenquist

MOS McKenzie

MOS Klin

MOS Collinson

MOS Clough

MOS Banning

Turner Sunrise

With heavy snowfall at Turner Mountain during the past two weeks, the mountain has recovered from a month of warm weather and melting snow.

Hoops Olds

Junior guard Nathan Olds vs. Bigfork Jan. 4, 2013. Junior forward Christian Evans right.

Hoops Opland

Freshman forward Sean Opland controls an offensive rebound vs. Noxon Dec. 15, 2012.

Hoops Metz

Bruce Metz meets the crowd as they empty the stands to congratulate the Trojans after they rallied to defeat Thompson Falls 48-45 Friday, Feb. 14.

Hoops Andersen

Trojans Coach Cory Andersen call a time out vs. Plains Jan. 18, 2013.