Friday, November 29
Regional Briefs
UM Regents consider changes to student insurance
MISSOULA — The state Board of Regents is looking at making some changes to the insurance plan it offers university students because fewer of them are purchasing the plan and premiums aren’t covering the full cost of claims.
Gun advocates appeal Firearms Freedom Act ruling
HELENA — Gun advocates asked the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a lower court’s ruling against state laws designed to buck federal gun rules.
Couple fined for buying, owning bear parts
HELENA — The owners of a Chinese restaurant in Helena have been fined nearly $5,000 for buying and possessing black bears and bear parts, including a bucket of 12 bear paws found at the restaurant.
Fish & Wildlife Service may look to trim trout production
Hatcheries are safe now, but agency may consider bull trout efforts over those of rainbow
The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service has issued a report outlining fiscal challenges for 70 federal fish hatcheries, including the one at Creston, although the agency announced there will be no hatchery closures in the coming fiscal year.
Roadkill permits to be available on Tuesday
Applications for Montanans to be online
Permits to salvage deer, elk, antelope or moose killed in vehicular collisions will be available online beginning Tuesday, according to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Rosauers, other grocers resume card usage
Updated Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2013
Local Briefs
Young Libby squad works for growth
With bent knees and wide, intense eyes, Libby Loggers Head Coach Wally Winslow bounced left and right as his young team competed to earn their coach’s attention. Practicing their first-step defensive reactions, the Loggers listened as their coach repeated his directions over and over again, “Everytime. Everytime.”
Police Blotter
Don't raise the minimum wage; bring down government's expense instead
In the airport-turned-town of Seatac, Wash., a ballot proposal to institute a $15 an hour minimum wage clings to a narrow lead and faces a certain recount, while in Seattle a state socialist candidate has won election to the City Council on a platform including a $15 an hour minimum wage for the entire city.
Stand up for small business in Montana on Saturday
Have Americans lost hope?
Superintendent selection process under way
The search has begun.
Stolen Model T recovered
Family relic meant for Heritage Museum removed from shed
A Flathead County man was arrested Tuesday and charged with the theft of a 1918 Ford Model T from a family that intended to give the antique automobile to the Heritage Museum.
Paul Hansen, 64, of Troy
Paul J. Hansen, 64, died on Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2013, at his home in Troy.
Local veterinarian is concerned for pets in change to rodenticides
Dr. Griffiths says new formula makes saving pets more difficult
A Libby veterinarian is concerned about the impact a recent change in rat poison may have on pet owners.
Veterinarian Griffiths
Dr. Doug Griffiths/Treasure Valley Veterinary Clinic
Kootenai Sunrise
Sunrise on the Kootenai, Sunday, Nov. 24, about five miles west of Libby.
Flatiron Two
Jay Forsyth and Steve Bryant hiking the backcountry this weekend.Ê
Flatiron
It was taken at the top of Flatiron on Saturday. People are starting to hike the mountain already this season.
Doc Sighting In
Dr. Jay Maloney sighting in his brand new Kimber 7mm-08. 10-2-07
Buck Hock
Jennifer Hock shot her first buck (ever) Sunday morning in the Yaak area about 9 a.m. with a Savage Model 110 in .243 Winchester.
Buck Slaven
Brooke and Jim Slaven, Nov. 23, 2013, 6x6 Yaak whitetail, age 15.
Basketball Winslow
Isaak Jones, left, and Jared Winslow.
Basketball Johnson
Collin Johnson
Tuesday, November 26
Wind energy company guilty in eagle death
WASHINGTON — The government for the first time has enforced environmental laws protecting birds against wind energy facilities, winning a $1 million settlement Friday from a power company that pleaded guilty to killing 14 eagles and 149 other birds at two Wyoming wind farms.
Despite weakened filibuster, GOP senators have options
WASHINGTON — Two Californians proposed for the federal bench and two Texans offered as U.S. marshals are collateral damage, at least for now, in the suddenly escalated Senate confirmation wars.
Baucus proceeds with tax plan
HELENA — U.S. Sen. Max Baucus is forging ahead with his aggressive plan to rewrite the nation’s tax code in the next year, confident he can find common ground amid the intense partisanship stalling budget debates in Washington, D.C.
Whitefish brewery to expand
Six-packs of Great Northern Brewing Co.’s line of craft beers have been flying off grocery shelves this year at an unprecedented rate.
Police blotter
Local briefs
Students' posters herald 'Smokeout day'
Students in southern Lincoln County are getting the anti-smoking message, and 20 of them participated in the Great American Smokeout Poster Contest sponsored by St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.
4th DUI becomes a felony
A Libby man has pleaded not guilty to felony drunken driving after his Nov. 5 arrest.
Coldwell considers Troy options
Editor’s Note: The Western News talked to Troy Mayor-elect Darren Coldwell after his election victory earlier this month. Excerpts from that interview are included.
Our liberties are being slowly taken away
Letter to the Editor,
A hunter's reflection of holiday gratitude
In the pitch dark of this early morning, I made my way along the trail on my traditional “Thanksgiving Day” hunt. In the distance, I heard the conversation of living water and rock. The “babbling brook” informed me that I was arriving at my first checkpoint, the first of four creeks that marked my orienteering by flashlight into my remote elk “hidey hole.” I jumped a deer at creek two. At creek three, I spooked an elk that crashed through the brush like a freight train. I crossed the power line just before creek four and knew instinctively that it was “time to climb.”
Shopping locally helps merchants, all of us
I’m sure everyone has heard that every dollar spent locally gets recirculated seven more times before it absconds from our community and, in many cases, falls into the deep pockets of large corporations.
'Voices' concert set for Sunday
The Going to the Sun Voices, consisting of 13 Libby and Troy singers, will present “A Traditional Christmas” at 7 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 1, at the Memorial Center.
Colorado man, 60, is stable after weekend hunting accident
Lincoln County Sheriff’s officials on Monday released the names of the two men involved in a hunting accident in the Libby Creek area Nov. 16 that left one man critically injured with a gunshot wound in his leg.
Hazel I. Walch
Hazel Irene Walch, 106, passed away Nov. 7, 2013, at her home in Troy.
Jack Lee Carter, 63, formerly of Libby
Jack Lee Carter, 63, died at the home of his son, Ivan Carter, in Bonanza, Ark., Nov. 13, 2013.
Bruce Ross, 86, of Troy
Longtime Bull River resident, Bruce Ross, 86, passed away on Friday, Nov. 15, 2013, after a long struggle against the silent killer that is Libby asbestos.
EPA wraps 2013 cleanup
Agronomist assists property owners with soil, Cirian says
The EPA’s 12th year of cleanups resulted in 101 newly cleaned properties in Libby and Troy. Originally planning to clean 80 properties, the agency exceeded its projection by 21 properties.
Louise Hopkins, 67, of Troy
Louise Irene Hopkins, 67, of Troy; born to Louis and Margaret (Norquay) Rhoades, passed away in the early morning hours on Nov. 3, 2013, at her daughter’s residence in Brighton, Colo.
Old Photo 11-26-13
State Tourney Bound TroyÕs girls varsity basketball members are top row: Christina Quinn, left, Beth Prieve, Rezing Burrell, Wendi Winslow, Jennifer Williams, Don Myers, Jaime Volkmann, Whitney Stone and Catie McElmurry. Bottom row: Amy Winslow, left, Shana Lippert, Carmin Myers, Sarah Bain and Audra Brown. Photo from the Dec. 1, 1993, files of The Western News.
Obit Ross
Bruce D. Ross
Obit Carter
Jack Lee Carter
Moose Drool
The anticipation of a tasty leaf causes this young moose to salivate. (where moose drool comes from)
KRR Smith
Tony Smith at the piano KRR 2010
Moose
A breakfast of juniper with Mom and Junior Mint. These two were strolling along Louisiana Avenue Sunday morning just south of McDonald's.
KRR Meyer
Julie Meyer singing with Tony Smith during 8th annual Kootenai River Rhythm concert 11-13-10
KRR Men of Troy
Men of Troy perform during 8th annual Kootenai River Rhythm concert 11-13-10
Friday, November 22
Local briefs
House OKs bills to speed oil, gas drilling
WASHINGTON — The House approved two bills Wednesday aimed at speeding up drilling for oil and natural gas on public lands.
Nuke troubles run deep; officers 'burned out'
WASHINGTON — Trouble inside the Air Force’s nuclear missile force runs deeper and wider than officials have let on.
JPMorgan $13B deal may not end bank's legal woes
WASHINGTON — The $13 billion settlement that JPMorgan Chase agreed to Tuesday is the largest ever between the Justice Department and a corporation. Yet it isn’t likely the end of the bank’s legal troubles over the risky mortgage securities it sold before the financial crisis.
Pilgrim timber sale challenged by nature group
The Alliance for the Wild Rockies, the organization that filed a lawsuit to halt the Pilgrim timber sale in the Kootenai National Forest, lists thousands of contributors. But a call to the organization’s Helena office found just one person who performed multiple duties.
Logger fall athletes recognized at assembly
The following are the award winners from Libby High’s falls sports awards assembly.
Police Blotter
Making Medicare Part A and B make sense
There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding 2014 premiums and deductibles for Medicare Part A and Part B in 2014.The good news is standard the monthly premium for Medicare Part B will be $104.90 in 2014, exactly the same as it was in 2013. The premium has either been less than projected or remained the same for the past three years. The last five years have been among the slowest periods of average Part B premium growth in the program’s history.
Gratitude should be more than a seasonal theme
Historically, the field of psychology focused on mental illness and dysfunction. Positive psychology developed as a unique new subdiscipline as recently as 1998. Instead of investigating the question of what went wrong, positive psychology seeks to understand the fulfilling aspects of the human experience.
50 years after: A call to rememberance of JFK
Over half of our nation’s present population was not born when the events of late November, 1963, took place. So these younger generations can never fully appreciate the impact which JFK’s assassination had upon the psyche of this nation.
Tracee Peterson tells her story
Less than two months after attack, she describes her recovery
As Tracee Peterson lay down to sleep in the early Saturday morning hours, she was too tired to contemplate the chaos that filled her life.
Robert L. Mason, 86, of Eureka
Robert L. (Bob) Mason passed away comfortably on Friday, Nov. 15, 2013, at Good Samaritan-Mountain View Manor after an eight-year battle with Alzheimer’s. He was born on May 19, 1927, in Wapato, Wash. to Frank Mason and Alice (Eaton) Mason Torrey. He was the oldest of four children. Bob’s early years were spent in the Yakima Valley and then West Kootenai Rexford, where he graduated eighth grade. He attended Lincoln County High School and graduated in 1945. He then served in the U.S. Army from 1945 to 1947. He attended Centralia Junior College and Montana State University on football scholarships for his ability as a running back and punter
"Marci" Johnson, 55, of Troy
“Marci” Johnson, 55, of Troy left home for her journey to another place on Thursday, Nov. 14, 2013, in the loving arms of her family and friends, both two- and four-legged. She was born Feb. 28, 1958, in Parkersburg, W. Va., and was very proud of her Appalachian heritage which she credited with giving her deep roots, strong wings, and a loyal and tenacious spirit that no one or no thing could ever stifle.
Linda Garrison, 56, of Libby
Linda (Green) Garrison peacefully passed away at the Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Nov. 14, 2013. We can all agree that 56 is much, much too young to go, but we are all very thankful she is now at peace and not feeling pain any longer.
Tracee
Tracee Peterson takes time out for a photo with fellow co-workers from Main Street Perk with Jada Schnetter, left, Makaylin Randall, Peterson, Hailey Peterson, Ronda Colgan and Cathy McCann.
Obit McCollum
Brent McCollum
Obit Mason
Robert Mason
Obit Garrison
Linda Garrison
Award Soccer
All State soccer players Johnny Davidson, left, and Jason Schnackenberg.
Fire Posts Trailer Court
Fully engulfed motor home at Posts Trailer Court space 28. Fire Chief Tom Wood in foreground.
Award Peterson
Hailey Peterson receives the Most Inspirational award from girls soccer Coach Joe Cik for suiting up and playing despite personal tragedy.
RV bursts into flames
Earl Stevens, 78, was helping his buddy, Roy Sneath, 77, work on the engine of his 1985 Fleetwood Pace Arrow when things went wrong.
Award Barrick
MVP and four year letter winner XCountry Cody Barrick, receives his award from Coach Rod Tempel.
Award Golf
All Conference with Morgan Wilkins, left, and Jonny Cielak.
$25 Gift Card for ONLY $20
DOME THEATER
Wednesday, November 20
$20 GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR ONLY $10
Young Guns Pizza
Tuesday, November 19
Ninety-nine students make Troy honor roll
The first-quarter honor roll for Troy High School consisted of 67 students with another 32 students from Troy Junior High School. Students, by grade are:
Jamboree brings sparse state together
Robin Huenink recalls a time when he and his wife, LeAnne, drove 345 miles in one day to watch their two daughters, Rachel and Lily, play sports. Neither daughter aspires for a professional athletic career. Neither parent pushes for perfect performance. The Hueninks are simply normal Montana parents willing to face the long travel that accompanies life in Big Sky Country.
Professor sues to block Sierra Nevada logging
RENO, Nev. (AP) — A renowned conservation biologist who has done research for the Forest Service for more than a decade is suing the agency to try to block logging in the mountains above Lake Tahoe. He says it’s being done illegally under the guise of reducing wildfire threats that don’t exist.
Historic half-grown T. rex fossil find could answer questions
KANSAS CITY, Mo. — A Kansas fossil hunter has unearthed the remains of what is believed to be a half-grown Tyrannosaurus rex from Montana that could help fill a void in paleontologists’ understanding of the king of the dinosaurs.
Fish barrier intended to protect cutthroat trout
BUTTE — A planned $500,000 fish barrier will aim to protect westslope cutthroat trout from non-native species in Silver Bow Creek in western Montana.
Toronto council poised to strip mayor of powers
TORONTO — Beset by scandal, Toronto Mayor Rob Ford faced another likely setback Monday as the City Council took up a motion to snatch away many of his remaining powers in a heated council meeting where he knocked over a woman councilor. Ford called the effort a “coup d’etat” and challenged the council to call snap elections.
Judge won't dismiss charge against bride
MISSOULA — A federal judge on Friday rejected a Montana woman’s request to dismiss her murder indictment for pushing her new husband off a cliff during an argument in Glacier National Park.
Yaak Country Barter
Ladies group swaps handmade quilt for community center stove
When the ladies of Yaak Women’s Club decided it was time to get a new wood-burning stove for the Yaak Community Hall, they sought out Fred Seton of Therm-A-Volt Inc. The stove the ladies were interested in ran for $3,000, but Seton had a different kind of exchange in mind. Seton proposed a swap: his stove for a hand-made circle quilt.
Local briefs
Judge: Stinger cranes stay put for now
After one failed effort to legally restrain Stinger Welding from the Kootenai Business Park, Lincoln County has convinced a different judge to keep in place a temporary restraining order against the company while litigation continues over ownership of valuable industrial property.
Libby man who shot Colorado man pleads not guilty
Michael Wagner, the 48-year-old Libby man who critically wounded a Littleton, Colo., man while hunting near Libby Creek Road, pleaded not guilty Tuesday to three misdemeanors in Lincoln County Justice Court.
Peterson fundraiser raises $15,000
Tracee Peterson could not believe it. She could not believe so many people cared about her. In the hours before she arrived at Troy Elementary School, Peterson fretted about attendance at her Saturday benefit. Would Troy really turn out?
Libby teacher brings science to life
The classroom of Libby High School science teacher Gene Reckin isn’t just for teaching lessons about the natural world. It is a place of inspiration.
Veterans Day service is a worthwhile event
Letter to the Editor,
Obama needs to be held accountable for the lies behind Obamacare sell
Letter to the Editor,
Ultraviolet rays are threats to animals, too
We are hearing a lot in today’s media about the effects of ultraviolet rays from the sun, especially with a “loss of ozone.” While we know that this may cause severe sunburns or skin cancer in humans, these problems may also be seen in animals.
Chronic absences a serious problem in school
Absenteeism is a major issue for Libby’s kindergarten through 12th grade students. I believe our board, staff and community should be aware of the current trends and complications associated with chronic absenteeism.
Fire department expects answer soon on new engine
Libby Volunteer Fire Department (LVFD) officials should learn tonight whether the offer they made on a 10-year old fire engine in Albany, N.Y., will be accepted by the Hudson City Council, giving the local agency its first new fire engine since 1999.
Anthony (Tony) Torres, Sr., 80, of Libby
Anthony (Tony) Paul Torres Sr., born May 13, 1933, in Libby to Esteniloy and Genevieve (Enders) Torres, went to his final resting place on Nov. 16, 2013.
Duane McElmurry, 62, of Libby
Duane Jerry McElmurry “Du Mac”, 62, of Libby passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Nov. 15, 2013, from natural causes.
Brent McCollum, 43, of Libby
Brent Allen McCollum, 43 of Libby passed away Nov. 12, 2013 in Noonan, N.D.
Linda Garrison, 56, of Libby
Linda (Green) Garrison peacefully passed away at the Hospice House in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on Nov. 14, 2013. We can all agree that 56 is much, much too young to go, but we are all very thankful she is now at peace and not feeling pain any longer.
Cecil F. Bache, 78, of Libby
Cecil F. Bache, 78, of Libby, passed away of natural causes at his home on Saturday, Nov. 16, 2013. He was born April 18, 1935, in Libby to Esbon and Ethel (Nixon) Bache.
Tracee Two
The look on Tristyn Winebark's face while hugging Tracee Peterson Saturday evening pretty well explained how everyone felt.
Tracee Three
Tracee Peterson gets a supportive hug from Yvonne Resch Saturday evening at Morrison Elementary.
Tracee Six
Tracee Peterson poses with a few of her co-workers from Main Street Perk with Jada Schnetter, left, Makaylin Randall, Tracee, Hailey Peterson, Ronda Colgan, Cathy McCann and Jamie McCann.
Tracee Four
Tracee Peterson takes a moment for a photo op with cousin, Michelle Hanson, left, and aunt, Linda Hanson right.
Tracee Five
Dylan Peterson gets a supportive hug from his big sister Hailey!
Regional Graham
Photo provided - Jordan Graham and Cody Johnson at their June 29 wedding.
Reckin Two
Junior Jessica Miller, left, and advanced biology teacher Gene Reckin, inspect a small crop of brassica, part of a genetics experiment in cross pollenation and long term plant breeding. (Paul Sievers photo/Western News)
Reckin
Advanced biology teacher Gene Reckin, left, holding a female grizzly bear skull, explains how to determine the age of the bear. Students pictured include Lily Feeback and India Croucher. (Paul Sievers photo/Western News)
Reckin Three
Advanced biology teacher Gene Reckin, second from left, holding a female grizzly bear skull explains how to age the animal. Johnny Davidson, left, India Croucher center, (white sweater) and Lily Feeback right (camo jacket).
Quilt
The Yaak WomenÕs Club has recently created a quilt which they have traded to Fred and Carol Seton for a custom built wood stove for the historic Yaak Community Hall.Ê The quilt (which is pictured) is a beautiful and colorful, Circle Quilt design, and hand-quilted by the members of the Yaak WomenÕs Club.Ê (Carol Seton is in the far right of the photo receiving the quilt). The Yaak WomenÕs Club is dedicated to promote the welfare and integrity of the Yaak community as a whole, working together to create a financial base through quilting, crafting and volunteerism to support the Yaak Community Hall and lend support to other worthwhile projects.Ê The Yaak Community Hall was in need of a new wood stove to replace the aging barrel stove, which was quite inefficient.Ê So in this need, the offer was made to Fred and Carol Seton, of the Yaak, to trade a quilt for a wood stove.Ê The bartering trade has now been completed and the wood stove has been installed.Ê Thanks is given to all who helped in achieving and meeting this goal.
Obit McElmurry
Duane J. McElmurry
Old Photo 11-19-13
Artistic Trio Intent on their charcoal drawings are Chris Noble, left, Richard Nelson and Daniel Brown. The Lincoln School fourth graders spent Wednesday mornings learning this art from Mrs. Carol Gerard. Photo from the Oct. 25, 1973, files of The Western News.
Obit McCollum
Brent McCollum
Obit Garrison
Linda Garrison
Obit Bache
Cecil F. Bache
Saturday, November 16
PAJAMA SKATE PARTY
Carousel Roller Rink
Friday, November 15
Lady Trojan spikers bow out in divisionals
Troy volleyball fell out of the divisional tournament in Florence last Thursday when it lost in straight sets to Florence and Thompson Falls. The team ended the season 5-14. The photo was taken during a Sept. 7 match against Mission.
Hunters report greater success
Things are picking up, hunters.
Obamacare signup low; Dems unhappy
WASHINGTON — Add simmering Democratic discontent to the problems plaguing “Obamacare,” now that first-month enrollment figures are out.
Official to expand scope of 'dark money' probe
HELENA — The state commissioner of political practices said Wednesday he is expanding his ongoing investigation into allegations of illegal coordination between candidates and independent groups.
Slow start: 212 Montanans sign up
HELENA — Some 212 people in Montana signed up for health insurance in the first month of the U.S. government-run online marketplace that has been plagued by technical problems, federal officials said Wednesday.
Area businesses team to promote local holiday shopping
Life in Montana almost inevitably includes long drives. Many shoppers will travel to Kalispell or beyond for holiday items, but those looking for local options are in luck.
Local businessman dies in North Dakota head-on collision
Friends and family are mourning the loss of Brent McCollum, a man remembered for a humorous, adventurous personality and his love for his family.
Friends of Scotchman Peaks to open office in downtown Libby
Next Wednesday, Nov. 20, will be a busy day for two new neighbors in downtown Libby, as the Montana Wilderness Association and Friends of Scotchman Peaks Wilderness will host an open house at their new office.
Cabinet View signees now want off petition
Faced with a mutiny of signed petitioners, members of the committee attempting to organize a fire district with similar boundaries of the now-dissolved Cabinet View Fire Service Area are reassessing the petition to see whether it still meets criteria for consideration.
Health exchange talks scheduled
The Northwest Community Health Center, Montana Primary Care Association and Lincoln County Public Libraries are partnering to present two question-and-answer sessions about the Affordable Care Act and the new Marketplace website (healthcare.gov).
Astronomy club will meet tonight
The Kootenai Stargazers Astronomy Club will meet at 6 p.m. Friday Nov. 15, at 324 White Ave. in Libby.
Thanksgiving meal planned at VFW
Libby area churches will sponsor the Fourth Annual Thanksgiving Day Dinner on Nov. 28.
Bissell to address Libby SAF chapter
The Society of American Foresters is sponsoring guest speaker Gael Bissell, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks biologist, for its November chapter meeting.
Bower excels in Army training
Jordan Bower has shown his mettle as he was named honors graduate during his U.S. Army Airborne training as a member of Bravo Company, 1st Battalion (ABN) 507th Infantry.
Police Blotter
Now is the time to celebrate nurse practitioners
As the healthcare provider shortage continues to top the national agenda, it is important that the public be aware that there are more than 171,000 nurse practitioners in the United States who provide high-quality, cost-effect, comprehensive, patient-centered care to patients across the country.
A son's remembrance: Honoring a father, a soldier, a generation
In 1958, I was born to Dick and Eunice Blackburn as their third and youngest son. Named David Thomas Blackburn, I joined my older brothers, Richard and Joe, as first-generation baby boomers. Just as my father, I was born and raised in the peaceful countryside of Bedford, Pa.
Celebrating 50 years of the Wilderness Act
I’m somewhat of an outlander. I grew up on the Clark Fork, not the Kootenai, went to school at Heron and moved to Idaho for high school. But I’ve come back to “The Emerald Empire” many times since, the last time — 25 years ago — to stay.
Fire victim treated for smoke inhalation
A Libby woman was hospitalized after suffering smoke inhalation during a fire Tuesday evening at the Park Apartments.
Local senior is victim of phone scam
Donald Swennes’ “friends” usually call before noon. They dial from Florida, Brooklyn, Canada, even Kingston, Jamaica. At 83, he is hard-of-hearing and often struggles to decipher the accents with which his callers speak.
High court backs BLVFD
The Montana Supreme Court has decided that the Bull Lake Volunteer Fire District has the authority to respond to emergencies within the district’s boundaries as it sees fit.
Johanna B. Miller, 67, of Libby
Johanna B. Miller, 67, of Libby, died on Saturday, Nov. 9, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital in Libby.
Rev. Charles Gray, 72, formerly of Libby
The Rev. Charles L. Gray, 72, passed away Nov. 4, 2013.
Volleyball Team
Time out during the match vs. Mission Sept. 7.
Sebelius
In this Nov. 6, 2013, file photo, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington on the difficulties plaguing the implementation of the Affordable Care Act. Putting a statistic on disappointment, the Obama administration revealed Wednesday, Nov. 13, that fewer than 27,000 people signed up for private health insurance last month in the 36 states relying on a problem-filled federal website. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite, File)
Paul Buck
Whitetail taken in the Yaak area on Wednesday, Nov. 13 with a Ruger No. 1 in .30-06. Paul was wearing his lucky green shirt.
Military Bower
Jordan Bower
Health Libby Clinic
Names from l-r:Ê Lorna Shea, FNP-C; Jennifer Edminster, FNP-C; Peter Kitts, FNP-C; Natasha Pennock, FNP-C
Blackburn
Dick Blackburn
Wednesday, November 13
Libby man dead after head-on collision in N.D.
Libby resident Brent McCollum died Tuesday following a head-on collision with a UPS semitailer on Highway 5.
Tuesday, November 12
FWP biologists are optimistic about bull trout redd report
Bull trout spawning surveys in eight North and Middle Fork Flathead River tributaries have been completed by Montanta Fish, Wildlife & Parks officials , and the results are encouraging.
FWP officials charge four with 2012 wildlife violations
Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks wardens have charged four people with numerous counts of wildlife violations based on 2012 activities related to whitetail deer poaching near Whitefish.
Montana biotech students isolate Westslope cutthroat gene
KALISPELL — A group of biology students at Flathead Valley Community College were asked to present at a National Science Foundation conference after they isolated a gene from a Westslope cutthroat trout.
Regional Briefs
Feds: Citations coming in job fatality
BUTTE — Federal officials say they are preparing to issue citations in connection with the death of a Montana worker who fell from an aerial lift in Butte last month.
Attorney wants off group's case
HELENA — The attorney for a secretive political group known for challenging state campaign laws is asking to be removed from a case where the state is seeking a big penalty.
Court: City doesn't have to disclose porn viewers
BILLINGS — The Montana Supreme Court ruled the city of Billings doesn’t have to reveal the identities of five employees disciplined last year for looking at pornography and other adult material on their work computers.
Universities research bio-fuel potentials
MOSCOW, Idaho — Researchers at the University of Idaho and universities in Montana are teaming up to study ways to turn trees killed in recent years by beetles into a viable renewable energy source.
Bearcats bow to the Eagles, 54-29
CHENEY, Wash. — Vernon Adams threw four touchdown passes and ran for another score as Eastern Washington defeated Montana State 54-29 on Saturday to take a major step toward the Big Sky Conference championship.
Lady Loggers bow out at divisionals
The Lady Loggers were looking for a little magic in their bid for a trip to the state tournament, but were not able to conjure a win against the Polson Pirates on Saturday.
Girls State applications begin Jan. 15
The 66th Montana’s American Legion Auxiliary Girls State 2014 program will be held on the campus of Carroll College from May 31 to June 6.
Filipino typhoon victims plead for aid
Estimates of more than 10,000 dead
TACLOBAN, Philippines — Typhoon-ravaged Philippine islands faced an unimaginably huge relief effort that had barely begun Monday, as bloated bodies lay uncollected and uncounted in the streets and survivors pleaded for food, water and medicine.
Self-help legal rep available Nov. 14
The 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 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14.
X-Ski group plans busy schedule
The Kootenai Valley Cross-Country Ski Club has three dates to mark in the coming weeks.
Fine artists meet this Thursday
Libby Fine Arts will meet from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 14, at Treasure Manor community room.
Stargazers meet at 6 p.m. Friday
The Kootenai Stargazers Astronomy Club will meet at 6 p.m. Friday Nov. 15, at 324 White Ave. in Libby.
Area churches plan Thanksgiving meal
Libby area churches will sponsor the Fourth Annual Thanksgiving Day Dinner on Nov. 28th.
Timber Moe Parker
Timber Moe Parker, son of Steve and Halley Parker of Libby, was born at 8:24 p.m. Aug. 26, 2013.
Nathan Craig Mann
Nathan Craig Mann, son of Luke and Kerry Mann of Libby, was born at 10:57 a.m. Aug. 10, 2013 in North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.
Veterans' statue unveiled
As the rain-covered tarp was pulled over the six-foot bronze statue, Scott Lennard felt relieved. Nine months of pressure-packed work went on public display Monday when Lennard’s first life-sized monument was unveiled at Riverfront Park. Receptive applause broke the subdued event as the statue was introduced.
Tale of camaraderie: Vets tell their service
Libby High and Middle School students who thought they were getting out of class — and a lesson — for a Veterans Day assembly on Monday got schooling anyway in Americana and late 20th century world affairs from two guest speakers.
Lawrence grateful for community support
Letter to the Editor,
Vet: I am alive because of civilian innocents
Today, I am a somewhat overweight, bearded suburban dad entering a comfortable middle age, but it was not always thus.
Patton, Ike, and my teenage boys
I recently took my two teenage sons to a talk by Frank Kravetz, a 90-year-old World War II veteran who survived Adolf Hitler’s Nuremberg prisons. Frank published his story in a memoir, Eleven Two: One World War II Airman’s Story of Capture, Survival and Freedom.
Cabinet View district forum is set for today
Members of a committee hoping to restore a fire agency within the Cabinet View area will be available at 11 a.m. today at the Ponderosa Room at City Hall for the purpose of establishing a fire district.
County OKs sole-source stove ordinance
Lincoln County commissioners on Wednesday unanimously approved an ordinance that will allow homeowners whose sole source of heat is a stick wood-burning stove to use that even during alerts, the most-restrictive air-quality period.
Cheryl F. Blinco, 64, of Libby
Cheryl F. Blinco, 64, of Libby died Thursday Nov. 7th, 2013 at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital from natural causes. She was born July 22, 1949 in Conrad to Allen and Mary Coffman.
William McKinney, 61, of Libby
William (Bill) McKinney was born June 6, 1952, in Spokane, Wash., and peacefully passed away on Oct. 13, 2013, in Libby after a long struggle with health issues.
Tracee Peterson to attend fundraiser, move back with family
Seven weeks after suffering a beating that almost took her life, Tracee Peterson will thank her supporters in person Saturday at her benefit event.
Vets Swagger
American Legion Post 97 honor guard with muzzle flash by William Swagger Jr.
Volleyball Gallagher
Devon Gallagher, volleyball divisionals
Vets Mancuso
Ken Mancuso, left, receives a check from Sierra Westlund, center, and Taylor Cook.
Vets Lindgren
Kari Lindgren
Vets Lamantia
VFW Post 1548 member Lorenzo Lamantia readies Old Glory during the Venterans Day ceremony at Libby Cemetery Monday morning.
Vets Gruber
Veterans Ken Mancuso, left, and Bob Gruber listen to speaker Terry Andreessen.
Vets Chewning
Taps by Ginny Chewning
Vets Faulkner
Patrick Faulkner of Boy Scout Troop 1971, places a wreath as Stella Sharp, left, and Maria Wegner look on.
Vets Broderick
Caleb Broderick
Vets Andreessen
Terry Andreessen
Ross Creek Cedars
Visitor from Arizona, Debby Myers, enjoys a moment at Ross Creek Cedars Oct. 30.
Outdoors Bull Trout Spawn
OLYMPUS DIGITAL CAMERA
Old Photo 11-12-13
Troy's Bank Making Good One of the Kootenai ValleyÕs new business institutions which promises to be very successful is the Kootenai Valley State Bank of Troy. This bank has now been in operation for about six monthsÑ long enough to demonstrate that it is being property managed and that it is one of the substantial business institutions of the county. Earl B. Angell, formerly assistant cashier in the First National Bank of Libby, is cashier of the Kootenai Valley State Bank, and he has demonstrated that the officials of the bank made no mistake when they chose him for the position. Photo from the Oct. 23, 1913, files of The Western News.
Meeting Smith
Pat Smith
Meeting Cuffe
Mike Cuffe Rep. Representative HD2, left, Jerry Bennett Rep. Representative HD1 and Pat Smith.
Birth Mann
Nathan Mann
Friday, November 8
Game warden seeks help with poached, wasted deer
Libby Game Warden Tamie Laverdure needs some help. Several whitetail and mule deer have been found shot with only their backstraps removed in the Powerline and Ziegler Mountain areas.
FWP officials euthanize three habituated grizzly bears
One grizzly bear removed in area
Three grizzly bears, one of which in the Eureka area, were captured by Montana Fish Wildlife & Parks biologists and euthanized with the assistance of local veterinarians.
Judge denies inmate a new trial in rape case
HELENA — A judge has rejected a Montana State Prison inmate’s argument that he deserves a new trial for a 2002 rape in a juvenile detention center that he says didn’t happen.
Bohlinger will run for Senate as a Democrat
HELENA — Former Republican Lt. Gov. John Bohlinger said Wednesday his decision to run for the U.S. Senate in 2014 as a Democrat was sealed by last month’s federal government shutdown and Congress’ inability to work together.
Daines to run for Senate on GOP ticket
BOZEMAN — U.S. Rep. Steve Daines announced Wednesday that he will run for Senate in 2014, giving Montana Republicans a candidate they believe has a strong chance at winning the state’s first open Senate seat in decades.
Sen. Augare may plead guilty in case
HELENA — State Sen. Shannon Augare will plead guilty to charges of drunken driving, reckless driving and obstruction of a peace officer if a magistrate judge rejects a request to dismiss the federal charges, his attorney said Tuesday in a court filing.
Police Blotter
State agency confirms initial influenza cases
The Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) has confirmed the first influenza cases of the season in Gallatin and Flathead counties.
St. John's sponsors Great American Smokeout Poster Contest
Anti-tobacco program goes to the schools
The Great American Smokeout is coming to a school near you.
Fundraiser slated for the Nutcracker
The Kootenai Valley Nutcracker is sponsoring a fundraiser on Saturday, Nov. 9.
Self-help legal aide in Libby on Nov. 14
The representative from the Self Help Law Program will be at the Lincoln County Courthouse, second floor, in the law library on Thursday, Nov. 14.
Dowling joins St. John's staff
Margaret Dowling has recently joined the St. John’s Lutheran Hospital management team as the new acute-care nursing manager.
Final Lincoln County Election Tally
Final Lincoln County Election Tally (Recount Results)
Coldwell wins Troy mayor; Carr and Rowse claim seats
Out with the old and in with the new was the theme in Troy’s elections as challenger Darren Coldwell handily defeated incumbent Tony Brown and two challengers were elected to City Council.
Roll remains mayor; Benson, Teske, Desch earn seats
The tallies during the recount of Election Day votes for Libby City Council candidates changed Thursday, but it didn’t alter the outcome: Robin Benson, Brent Teske and Barb Desch will serve four-year terms.
Sixty-six-year VFW member recalls his World War II service
Roland “Rolly” Childs was working his folks’ farm near Grand Rapids, Minn., when the radio broke from the regularly scheduled broadcast to report a Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor. The news was incomprehensible. How could America, so mighty, be under attack? A combination of shock and anger filled the 21-year-old.
Bronze statue to be informally unveiled at Riverfront Park
An informal unveiling of the Veterans Memorial is scheduled for 4 p.m. Monday, Veterans Day, in Riverfront Park. While the project is not complete, the presentation will introduce the bronze statue that will serve as the centerpiece of the memorial.
Black-Parker
The parents of Halley Marie Black and Steve Patrick Parker announce the marriage of their children on Oct. 12, 2013, at The Hitching Post Wedding Chapel in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Raymond Ramel, 85, of Libby
Raymond P. Ramel, 85, a longtime resident of the Kootenai Valley, died Sunday, Nov. 3, 2013, at the Libby Care Center.
Regional Daines
U.S. Rep. Steve Daines works the room at an event announcing his candidacy for the U.S. Senate, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2013, in Bozeman, Mont. (AP Photo/Matt Gouras)
Revett Mine
Tim Lindsay, left, during mine tour Aug. 24, 2012.
Hunt Hamel
Lance Hamel took this 5x5 Muley in the Troy area on Friday, November 1st, 2013. Colton Howard right.
Griz Tack Shed Breakin
Tack shed broken into by a 7-year old, 525-pound male grizzly captured on November 2, 2013.
Fire Dixie Three
An emotional Donna O'Neil, left, describes how she and her sister Jackie Drake put out the kitchen fire at the home of their mother, Dixie Sichting. (husband Jim O'Neil right)
Fire Dixie One
Burned chair, carpet, wall, refrigerator door that won't close because the grating burned and warped the door and resulting smoke damage are all remnants of what could have been the total destruction of the house at 6616 Pipe Creek Road belonging to Dixie Sichting.
Fire Dixie Four
The offending office chair which sat too close the wood stove and caught fire.
Wednesday, November 6
$20 GIFT CERTIFICATE FOR $15
LIBBY'S CLOSET
Tuesday, November 5
Roll, Coldwell win mayoral races
In Libby: It's Benson, Teske, Desch; In Troy: It's Carr and Rowse
Incumbent Doug Roll won the Libby mayoral race over challenger Allen Olsen by a close margin, while Darren Coldwell won easily over incumbent Tony Brown in Troy.
Bulletin: Planned power outage cancelled
UPDATE::: The Bonneville Power Administration and Flathead Electric Cooperative planned outage for Wednesday, November 6 in the Libby area is cancelled.
Olsen fires back
Councilman asks city to pay his legal fees
Libby City Councilman Allen Olsen has been chomping at the bit waiting to address fellow councilmembers to approve the expenses for his legal defense in his city residency case.
Lady Trojans stumble at district
The Lady Trojans volleyball team lost to Bigfork in three sets and Plains in four at the district tournament in Plains on Saturday.
Lady Loggers drop final two, look to rebound in divisionals
The Lady Loggers dropped their final two regular season matches in straight sets to Polson and Frenchtown over the weekend.
Police Blotter
Some Democrats push back on Obama
WASHINGTON — Just two weeks after President Barack Obama saw his Democratic Party put up an unyielding front against Republicans, his coalition is showing signs of stress.
LAX gunman says he plotted alone
LOS ANGELES — The gunman charged in the deadly shooting at Los Angeles International Airport lay bloodied and handcuffed on the floor of Terminal 3 after being gunned down by police, but he replied to critical questions that helped authorities lock down the scene.
Feds: Navy secrets bought with hookers
SAN DIEGO — Nicknamed “Fat Leonard,” the gregarious Malaysian businessman is well known by U.S. Navy commanders in the Pacific, where his company has serviced warships for 25 years.
Volleyball Moe
Hailley Moe (40) tips the ball over Polson blockers in Friday's loss.
Mercer Bear
First bear I've shot in the fall for a long long time. Usually get mine in the spring. Got to use my new 300 ultra mag from Lane Precision RiflesÊon this one, it was only 350 yards away but a fun shot anyway. He's an average Montana Black Bear at 5 foot 6 inches and weighed just over 200 pounds on the scale. He'll look good hanging next to the rest of the bears on my wall.....its starting to look like bear wallpaper, I like it!
Volleyball Brown
Taylor Brown kill shot at District Tourney in Plains.
Old Photo 11-5-13
ÒSix SpotÓ Charles Bovey, Great Falls wheat farmer, state senator from Cascade County and the man behind the restoration of Virginia City and Nevada City, uses a chain fall while disassembling the drive mechanism of the J. Neils ÒSix Spot.Ó Bovey was here last summer to prepare the ÒSix SpotÓ for moving after purchasing the old Shay locomotive. He plans to move it to Nevada City, where it will become a showpiece as part of the Alder Gulch Short Line Railroad at the Nevada City depot. Photo from the Oct. 24, 1963, files of The Western News.
Council Orr
DC Orr addresses Libby City Council 11-4-13
Council Olsen
Allen Olsen addresses the Libby City Council.
Libby district gets $3,000 state grant
The Libby School District recently won a $3,000 grant from the Graduation Matters Montana Student Assistance Foundation College Readiness Fund.
Council Nelson
Jennifer Nelson addresses Libby City Council 11-4-13.
Libby woman, 100, is oldest voter
Davis recalls women's suffrage, casting first ballot for Roosevelt
Evelyn Davis remembers women’s suffrage like it was yesterday. She was seven years old in 1920 when Congress passed the 19th Amendment to the Constitution that guaranteed women the right to vote.
Get a cost estimate before you have work done
Letter to the Editor,
Let's all row together: Our town needs unity, now more than ever
Letter to the Editor,
GEAR UP continues to help reach beyond primary
Libby Public Schools are excited to announce that we are beginning our third year of seven as a part of the Montana GEAR UP program.
It's a new dawn for the defense of marriage
Every year Americans celebrate our nation’s founding, but our founders would barely recognize today’s America.
Anderson-Meha
Christina and Timothy Wallawine of Libby announce the engagement of their daughter, Kristen Robin Rose Anderson, to Paul Micheal Meha, son of Robin Schifferl of Libby.
Finger-lickin', Southern-style barbecue moves north
Jason Stepp did not move to Libby to become a prominent cook. A former superintendent of construction from Georgia, Stepp simply wanted to live in the wide-open space he heard his aunt and uncle talk about when he was a kid.
Port Authority attorney gets restraining order reinstated
For the second time in three weeks, an attorney for the Lincoln County Port Authority has filed paperwork obtaining a temporary restraining order to keep Stinger Welding, Inc., employees away from the building where the company built steel and bridge spans.
Monday, November 4
After unity, some Democrats push back on Obama
WASHINGTON (AP) — Just two weeks after President Barack Obama saw his Democratic Party put up an unyielding front against Republicans, his coalition is showing signs of stress.
Sunday, November 3
Gunman told police he acted alone in LAX shooting
LOS ANGELES (AP) — The gunman charged in the deadly shooting at Los Angeles International Airport lay bloodied and handcuffed on the floor of Terminal 3 after being gunned down by police, but he replied to critical questions that helped authorities lock down the scene.
Friday, November 1
Lady Trojans excited to compete in district and divisional tournaments
Their regular season a wrap, the Lady Trojans are focusing on maintaining the communication and positivity that carried them to third place in their district.
Lady Loggers look to close regular season on strong note
The Lady Loggers volleyball team is getting hot at the right time. With two remaining road contests, the Loggers have a shot at the third seed in the upcoming divisional tournament.
Police Blotter
Teen pleads guilty to rape charges
GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls teen who jumped over a balcony at the Cascade County Courthouse last month just before he was to plead guilty to raping an 11-year-old girl has now entered that plea.
Retired workers say pay changes unfair
HELENA — Retired public employees argue in a new lawsuit that pension cutbacks are an unconstitutional contract change.
State, feds to seek spill compensation
BILLINGS — Montana and federal officials say they’ll seek compensation from Exxon Mobil Corp. for natural resource damages caused by a crude oil spill into the Yellowstone River.
For Chief McLeod, fully staffed means better service
For three months, the Troy Police Department has been understaffed; soon that will change
The job duties of a small- town cop are not clear-cut. There’s the standard fare — pulling over traffic violators, diffusing domestic disputes, investigating crimes. Then there are unwritten requirements — smiling and waving at residents, installing Life Alert systems for old ladies, starting cranky lawn mowers.
Libby Fine Arts to meet Nov. 7
Libby Fine Arts will meet from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 7, at Treasure Manor community room.
School concerts are upcoming
As the holidays approach, there is a flurry of concerts at Libby’s Memorial Center.
SJLH Festival tickets now on sale
The St. John’s Lutheran Hospital Foundation Festival Gala is the Foundation’s signature event, entertaining hundreds of people and raising thousands of dollars for St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.
Consultant sought for dam purchase
HELENA — The Montana Public Service Commission will look for consultants to help it evaluate whether NorthWestern Energy’s proposed purchase of 11 hydroelectric dams from PPL Montana is a good deal for its customers.
Tribal leader wants charges dropped for drunken driving
BROWNING — A state senator and Blackfeet tribal council member plans to ask a judge to drop federal drunken-driving and obstruction charges against him now that he has pleaded guilty to similar charges in tribal court.
Fog cited as reason for slow start to whitetail deer season
Anxious hunters eager for an opening-day kill were met with limited success, largely attributed to heavy fog, says a local wildlife biologist.
Whitefish hunter bags a ranked bighorn
Whitefish hunter Glen Prestegaard recently shot a bighorn ram ranked by the Safari Club International record book as No. 3 in the world for muzzleloader hunting.
Sometimes the world just seems upside down
Letter to the Editor,
Hunters celebrate a bond for the outdoors
Dense clouds and wisps of fog covered the landscape as I drove to work through the darkness of the morning. At times, the mist of this heavy blanket and vaporizing shapes gave the illusion of a deer crossing the road.
Missile defense: An old idea uniquely suited for today's world
Recent satellite imagery suggests that North Korea has greatly expanded its uranium enrichment capabilities. The nation just promised to launch more long-range rockets “soon.”
Chief: Snow routes in effect today
Libby Police Chief Jim Smith reminds residents that city ordinance prohibits parking on city streets between 2:30 a.m. and noon on days when there is freshly fallen snow.
Search for new firetruck takes LVFD officials to Albany, N.Y.
As early as Saturday, a decision could be made on a fire engine for Libby Volunteer Fire Department that will replace the agency’s No. 1 pumper, a 36-year-old Ford that recently failed a capacity test.
Debra E. Powers, 50, of Troy
Debra E. Powers, 50, of Troy died Thursday, Oct. 24, 2013, at St. John’s Lutheran Hospital.
Joseph D. Sapp, 63, of Libby
Joseph Daniel Sapp, 63, passed away Sunday morning, Oct. 27, 2013, at his home in Libby.
Johnny Robinson, 55, of Coeur d"Alene
Johnny Arnold Robinson, 55, passed away on Oct. 24, 2013, at Kootenai Health in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.
Volleyball Lundin
Katie Lundin vs. Mission 9-7-13
Volleyball Libby
Pre-game huddle with Dayln Germany, left, Devon Gallagher, Hailley Moe, Hannah England, Mahalah Wedel, Staci Regh and Kelsey Klin vs. Whitefish 10-26-13.
Snow
Dec. 22, 2008
Bighorn
Glen Prestegaard and his son Kaleb pose with the record bighorn ram that Glen shot near Plains.
