Ellington

Forest plan revision discussed

The U.S. Forest Service will host a meeting Wednesday in Libby to discuss several issues raised in objections to the Kootenai National Forest’s revised forest plan and final environmental impact statement. 

Trojans fall to Bonners Ferry

The Lady Trojans (2-8) held a 4-3 road lead going into the bottom of the third inning before the wheels came off and Bonners Ferry scored 21 runs. An 11-run third and 10-run fourth by the Lady Badgers brought the game to an end after 4½ innings.

Lady Loggers sweep weekend softball games

The Lady Logger softball team responded to their first loss of the season with three significant weekend wins, fueled by an offensive outburst and a pair of no-hitters.

Libby girls fourth, Troy boys take third at track invitational

The Libby Invitational got off to a wet start Saturday, but the weather calmed and the show carried on as Libby claimed fourth in the girls meet and neighboring Troy claimed third in the boys events.

Area Briefs

Hunting for ghosts in Hotel Libby

Paranormal groups spend night in historic building

There is a certain shared purity when a group spends their Saturday night standing around in the dark, waiting for something unseen to go bump in the night. 

Wings gears up for annual fundraising

Events begin Saturday to benefit cancer nonprofit

The annual Wings fundraiser week begins Saturday to provide financial assistance to cancer patients.  

Police Blotter

Lincoln County 

Look to other sources for truth

It takes courage to stand up against something wrong

It takes courage to stand up against something that is totally wrong. 

Forest Stakeholders thank governor

The Kootenai Forest Stakeholders would like to thank Montana Gov. Steve Bullock for his nomination of the Kootenai National Forest lands we recommended for consideration under the new provisions of the Farm Bill. 

It's important to care for horses' hooves

“For want of a nail, the shoe was lost: for want of a shoe, the horse was lost: for want of a horse, the rider was lost: for want of a rider, the flag was lost: for want of a flag, the battle was lost.  And, all for the want of a horseshoe nail.”

Monthly book sale at library Friday

The Libby Friends of the Library will be holding their monthly book sale on Friday, May 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the basement of the library.

Barbara Karen Kusner Locke, 70, of Troy

Karen Locke passed away April 23, 2014 in Troy, due to cancer. Karen was born in Spokane, Wash., on Nov. 13, 1943 to Natalie and William (“Bill”) Kusner. Natalie and Bill moved from Chicago during the Depression to Savage Lake in Troy, where Bill ran Kusner Electric.

Geoffrey Ryan Brinton, 65, of Kalispell

Geoffrey Ryan Brinton, “Jeff”, 65, passed away peacefully at his home on Tuesday, April 22, 2014 in Kalispell. He was born Oct. 6, 1948 at Libby to Richard and Kathryn Neils Brinton. At age 14, the family moved to Eureka and resided at the 69 Ranch.  

Georgia Lea Onstott, 69, of Troy

Georgia Lea Onstott, 69, was taken from us by cancer on Friday, April 25, 2014 at her home in Troy.  She was born on June 9, 1944 at Colville, Wash., to Viola Elizabeth Barden and LeRoy Hatcher.

Track Stevenson

Shyla Stevenson competes in javelin Saturday during the Libby Invite.

Track Roach

Olivia Roach, leads off in girls 400-meter relay.

Track Miller

Lead-off man Michael Miller hands off to Sean Opland in boys 400-meter relay.

Track Opland

Sean Opland clears 6'4" in the high jump Saturday during the Libby Invite.

Track Hickman

Gabe Hickman

Track Hernandez

Miguel Hernandez competes in 1600-meter Saturday.

Track Barrick

Cody Barrick

Softball England

Hannah England

Softball Benefield

Auria Benefield

Old Photo 4-29-14

Math Mavens The Libby Math Team placed third in the Montana Council of Teachers of MathematicsÕ annual competition. Forty-three teams traveled to Kalispell for the March 16 meet. Students competed in general math, algebra, percentages, problem solving and geometry. Math team members back row from left: Coach Jenny Bland, Kelsey Helburg, Aunisa Stroklund, Kim Frey, Kara Kendall, Matt Brundin and Nate Scofield. Front row from left: Dana Williams, Heather Jackson, Sean Day and Kasey Pershing. Photo from the April 27, 1994, files of The Western News.

Obit Weinman

Donald Weinman

Obit Onstott

Georgia Lea Onstott

Obit Locke

Karen Locke

Obit Brinton

Geoffrey Ryan Brinton

Hotel Libby Edgar

Edgar the Hotel Libby cat.

Engaged Brothers Brown

Bride: Rachel Brothers from Libby, Mt graduatedÊ Libby High School in 2010. Currently a student at The Salon Professional Academy in Tacoma, WA. Parents are Les and Cindy Brothers of Libby, MT Groom: Trevor Brown from Troy, MT graduated Troy High School in 2006, Currently employed as an Independent Claims Adjuster for Eberl ClaimsÊShirley Brown of Troy, Mt The wedding is set for June 28th, 2014 at Bull Lake in Troy, MT

Burn Practice

LVFD firefighters keep a power pole cool as Chet's Motel goes up in flames during a practice burn Thrusday evening.

Burn Lauer Two

Fire Captain Steve Lauer watches as the flames quickly spread from one end of the building to the other. Lauer started the fire in the far left room.

Burn Lauer

LVFD Fire Captain Steve Lauer looks on as the last of Chet's Motel goes up in flames Thursday evening during a practice burn.

Burn Colclough

LVFD member Jason Colclough keeps an electrical pole cool as Chet's Motel goes up in flames during a practice burn Thursday evening.

Burn Ablaze

Chet's Motel burns to the ground during LVFD's practice burn Thursday evening.

Softball Rosling

Senior Brooke Rosling doubles to right field bottom of second inning scores Kyra Lauer, 12-0, Lady Loggers.

Softball Regh

Junior Staci Regh's base hit scores 1 (10-0 Loggers) bottom of the 4th vs. Timberlake Tigers 4-5-14

Softball Klin

Centerfielder Kelsey Klin reels in the fly ball off the bat of Madi Fetters for the third out bottom of the fifth vs. Columbia Falls April 17.

Pool Tourney Winners

Women's Pool League tournament winners from left are: Ruby Prentise, fourth; Maria Wegner, third; Zetta Thom, second and Jamie Murray, first.

Pool Top Shooter

Top shooter during Women's Pool League play, Geri DeShazer of the Pastime team.

Pool Second Chance

Second Chance Tournament winners from left are: Heidi Walston, third; Donna Hall, fourth; Barb Swartzenberger, second and Georgia McGhee, first.

Pool First Place

Women's Pool League first place tournament league team winners. Pastime team members from left are: Chris Smith, Barb Swartzenberger, Marlise Bailey, Vanna Blevins, Liz Voorhies and Geri DeShazer. Also winners of the traveling beer frame trophy and sportsmanship award.

Obit Hill

Wanda M. Hill

Construction

Highway 2 construction in Swamp Creek area south of Libby. This section was 1.2 miles long between lights.

Chamber

Members of the Libby Area Chamber of Commerce board of directors are Amber Managhan with Managhan's Furniture; Matt Bunk publisher of The Western News; board secretary Lisa Block, owner of Sewing Patch; Gail Burger, project director of the Hotel Libby rehabilitation project; chamber president Wade Block, Robin Benson and chamber vice president Pam Peppinger. The board recently added new members.

Bears attacking chickens has become problem

Wildlife and land managers say they are seeing gradual acceptance and improvements in public education and outreach for grizzly bear conservation, but there also are setbacks in some areas, most notably the proliferation of bear-attracting chicken coops across Western Montana.

Group sues to have Cabinet bears 'uplisted'

The Alliance for the Wild Rockies has filed a lawsuit in U.S. District Court in Missoula seeking to “uplist” the Cabinet-Yaak grizzly population from “threatened” to “endangered.”

Libby tennis battles wind at Cut Bank Invitational

Libby High School tennis traveled to Cut Bank last weekend to participate in the Cut Bank High School Invitational.

County consolidates polling sites

Lincoln County has adjusted its voting precincts and consolidated polling places.

Man claims to shoot off wolf pack

FWP officials question validity of incident

A Troy man’s harrowing tale of shooting his way out of potential harm after being surrounded by a pack of wolves has Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials scratching their heads.

Area Briefs

Work begins on U.S. 2 project

Construction on U.S. Highway 2 south of Libby is underway again this year.

Swinging toward state: Libby softball on hot start

Loggers handed first loss after 7-game win streak

Players on the Libby Lady Logger softball team are not bashful when discussing their goal.

How much power does a sheriff have?

Letter to the Editor,

Wilderness as a source of freedom

To an 11-year-old boy, growing up in a small town in the mountains of northwest Montana is something akin to long-term summer camp. The amount of freedom a 10-speed, decent sneakers and a slight inclination for mischief gives you is unsettling. When raised in such a place and fashion, one becomes intimate with the concept of “freedom” at a young age.

Special Olympics Torch Run comes through county

The Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office is once again coordinating the local leg of the Montana Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run. The run is to raise funds and awareness of Special Olympics.

Flower Creek Dam assessment up for public review

An environmental assessment evaluating the City of Libby’s plan to replace Flower Creek dam has been released for public review.

Donald Weinman, 52, of Libby

Donald “Donny” Weinman was born July 21, 1961 in Rocky Mount, N.C. to Barbara Herman and Joseph Weinman and went to be with his Lord and Savior on April 15, 2014.

Wayne Hedahl, 53, of Libby

Wayne Peter Hedahl, 53, of Libby, died on Thursday, March 27, 2014 at Kalispell Regional Medical Center.  

Wanda Hill, 70, of Libby

Wanda M. (Carr) Hill, 70, of Libby passed away peacefully at her home, surrounded by her loving family, on April 22, 2014.  

Kalispell's only unsolved murder is 11 years old

Eleven years after the only known unsolved murder in Kalispell’s history, the victim’s family is still looking for closure.

Lady Trojan softball scuffles at home

The Lady Trojans (2-6, 2-7) lost a Thursday doubleheader at home against Mission (4-2, 5-2). Emily Landis’ base hit in the first game prevented Courtney Charlo and Jaycee Anderson from combining for a no-hitter. Landis also recorded a hit in the second game, which Troy dropped, 21-3.

Trojan netters split weekend matches

At Bigfork, Trojan tennis split contests with Bigfork and Mission. The boys continued their winning ways as top singles player Michael Goe went undefeated and No. 2 singles player Dominic Chiaverini also won a pair of matches.

Loggers, Trojans compete in T-Falls track meet

Both Libby and Troy’s track teams traveled to Thompson Falls for Thursday’s meet.

FWP plans access site for Island Lake

The state is seeking to develop public access at Island Lake south of Libby to create improved opportunities for fishing and boating at the lake.

Area Briefs

Citywide spring cleaning planned throughout Troy

It took a while for the weather to catch up with spring cleaning desires, but Troy’s youth will help residents kick into gear during Thursday’s Community Service Day.

Libby celebrates Arbor Day with tree planning

The Libby Tree City USA board and the City of Libby are committed to continued management of its public trees.

Music students earn high marks at district event

The Libby High School band and choir participated in the District Music Festival earlier this month in Kalispell.

Police Blotter

Ryan 'Path to Prosperity' worthy of support

Letter to the Editor,

Mining under wilderness area is unsafe

Letter to the Editor,

You pay taxes, why doesn't General Electric

You pay your fair share of taxes. Small businesses do too. It’s the price we pay to educate our kids, protect our communities and have some security in retirement. Why shouldn’t some of America’s largest corporations pay their fair share too?

Camp Patriot hits snag in ranch search

Nonprofit looks to create outdoor retreat for veterans

Micah Clark could almost taste the mesquite. After more than a year working with a landowner in northwestern Montana, it finally looked like Camp Patriot would have the foothold it so badly wanted to create, a retreat for disabled veterans.

Rotary wine event raises money for youth projects

The Libby Rotary Club’s annual wine tasting Friday provides the opportunity to enjoy some good wine, but it also allows for folks to support some good causes

James Carlton Chance, 86, of Libby

James Carlton Chance, 86, died Thursday, April 17, 2014 at Libby Care Center. He was born Nov. 5, 1927 at Marcus Hook, Penn., to Joseph Edward and Hilda Chance. He was raised and educated in Philadelphia, and graduated from high school there.  

Estie Williams, 89, of Troy

Estie “Marie” Williams, 89, of Troy died on Friday, April 18, 2014 at Libby Care Center. She was born June 2, 1924 in Andrew, N.C., to Marion and Nellie Anthony.

Michael Keller, 66, of Libby

Michael G. Keller, 66, of Libby, died Saturday, April 19, 2014 at Sacred Heart Hospital in Spokane, Wash., from natural causes. Mike was born July 18, 1947 in Libby to Gerald and June Keller.

Brothers, Brown

Les and Cindy Brothers of Libby, parents of Rachel Brothers, and Bob and Shirley Brown of Troy, parents of Trevor Brown, are proud to announce the engagement of their children.

Club raises funds for TV broadcast

The Libby Video Club is looking for donations to assist with upkeep on its transmission station so it can continue to provide broadcast of several TV stations.

Track Topaz

Billy Topaz competes at Thompson Falls 4-17-14.

Track Brown

Manny Brown, left, and Ryan Suber 800-meter at Thompson Falls 4-17-14.

Track Sadewasser

Brandon Sadewasser competes at Thompson Falls 4-17-14.

Tennis Helmrick

Troy's Craig Helmrick plays a doubles match Saturday, April 19, against Bigfork's Adam Jordt and Isaac Martel at the Bigfork Public Tennis Courts.

Tennis Haggerty

Troy's Luke Haggerty plays a doubles match Saturday, April 19, against Bigfork's Adam Jordt and Isaac Martel at the Bigfork Public Tennis Courts.

Old Photo 4-22-14

First in Montana— Libby-Troy Volunteer Ambulance Association boasts the first extrication unit in the state. The crew officially took possession of the 3/4-ton 1965 Ford last Friday when Mark Schoknecht, right, manager of St. Regis, turned the keys over to the LTVA President Art Purdy. The vehicle, a direct result of an extrication training session held here last spring, joins the three LTVA ambulances at the LTVA barn. Photo from the April 4, 1974, files of The Western News.

Obit Williams

Estie Williams

Obit Chance

James Carlton Chance

Engaged Brothers Brown

Bride: Rachel Brothers from Libby, Mt graduatedÊ Libby High School in 2010. Currently a student at The Salon Professional Academy in Tacoma, WA. Parents are Les and Cindy Brothers of Libby, MT Groom: Trevor Brown from Troy, MT graduated Troy High School in 2006, Currently employed as an Independent Claims Adjuster for Eberl ClaimsÊShirley Brown of Troy, Mt The wedding is set for June 28th, 2014 at Bull Lake in Troy, MT

Easter Winners

Youth Court Services' 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt golden egg bike winners are Marcus Manson, left, Tristan Nelson, Kale Hall and Bently Seefeldt.

Easter West

Audrey West, 3, in search of hidden Easter eggs Saturday during Youth Court Services' 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at J. Neils Park.

Easter Sykes

Zahmann Sykes, 2, of Libby waits with his Easter basket Saturday before the start of the Troy Easter Egg Hunt at Roosevelt Park.

Easter Stewart

The Easter Bunny (Joel Stewart) was spotted at J. Neils Park Saturday.

Easter Schiller

Izabella Schiller, 2, of Troy picks up Easter eggs during the Troy Easter Egg Hunt Saturday at Roosevelt Park.

Easter Seefeldt

Golden egg prize winner Bently Seefeldt, 1-1/2, takes his new wheels for a spin Saturday at J. Neils Park.

Easter Jellesed

Kirsti Jellesed, 5, of Troy runs through the field during the Easter Egg Hunt Saturday at Roosevelt Park.

Easter Foss

Easter cousins Macy Foss, left, and Sofie Albiero compare baskets Saturday at J. Neils Park during Youth Court Serivces' 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt. The event included 150-dozen colored eggs and 250 prizes for each of four age groups, walking through 12.

Easter Erickson

Skylnn Erickson, 3, of Troy points out the Easter eggs in the field Saturday before the start of the Easter Egg Hunt at Roosevelt Park in Troy.

Easter Eggers

It was a good trade for Trinity Eggers, 5, as she cashed in her eggs for a pair of pink glasses Saturday during Youth Court Services' 13th Annual Easter Egg Hunt.

Lunar Eclipse

Ten images combined to show the progression of the lunar eclipse Tuesday morning. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Blood Moon

A shot of the Lunar eclipse Tuesday night. I attached my camera to my 14" telescope and used it to track the moon while getting some long exposures. The bright star to the right of the moon is Spica. Well, actually it's two stars in extremely close orbit. From earth it just looks like one star.

Police Blotter

Libby defeats Kats, 10-6

The undefeated streak continued for the Libby Lady Logger softball team Thursday when they knocked off Columbia Falls, 10-6.

Troy tennis earns wins on court against Ronan

Troy’s home tennis meet was cut short by rain Tuesday, but not before a few of the Trojans’ top competitors earned wins.

EclipseTwo

Ten images combined to show the progression of the lunar eclipse Tuesday morning. (Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Eclipse One

The lunar eclipse as seen from Big Mountain on Tuesday morning, April 15, at 1:17 a.m. (Brenda Ahearn/Daily Inter Lake)

EclipseThree

IÊ attachedÊ aÊ shot of the Lunar eclipse Tuesday night. I attached my camera to my 14" telescope and used it to track the moon while getting someÊ longÊ exposures.ÊTheÊ brightÊ starÊ to the right of the moon is Spica.ÊWell,Ê actuallyÊit's two stars in extremely close orbit.From earth it just looks like one star.

Free throw star

13-year-old takes third in national competition

As soon as he could sit up, Ryggs Johnston wanted to shoot.

Libby Middle/High School Honor Roll

The third quarter honor roll for Libby Middle/High School consisted of 175 students. Students by grade are:

Corps increases release from dam

Measure intended to prevent flooding downstream

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has ramped up releases from Libby Dam to prepare for spring runoff.

Area Briefs

Thank you, ladies of Christ Lutheran

Letter to the Editor,

Justice not served in the Peterson case

Letter to the Editor,

A taxpayer's open letter to the Lincoln County Treasurer

Letter to the Editor,

Tennis Stever

Azure Stever vs. Ronan's Shannon Saint at No. 2 singles 4-15-14.

Tennis Goe

Michael Goe vs. Ronan's Logan Soukkala at No. 1 singles 4-15-14.

Tennis Chiaverini

Dominic Chiaverini vs. Ronan's Ron Cullis at No. 2 singles 4-15-14.

Softball England

Devon Gallagher, left, and Hannah England post-game jube after defeating Columbia Falls 10-6 Thursday evening.

One Yr Old Wood

Elly Onna Lee Wood

Birth Mischenko

Mila Mischenko

Sheriff: Take time to thank area dispatchers

This week, April 14-20, is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week, which recognizes the unsung heroes behind every call for emergency service placed nationwide — the Public Safety Dispatchers.

Move to Class B means changes for Libby

Athletic directors weigh-in on shift

Libby High Athletic Director Jim Germany does not believe his school’s transition into Class B sports will automatically equate to success on the field. His new peers, however, argue otherwise.

Troy project creates path for kids walking to school

Community clean up day next week

Troy City Council unanimously approved a $64,000 construction plan to secure a safe route for kids walking to school during Wednesday’s meeting.

Yvonne Hamel, 85, of Libby

Yvonne B. Hamel, 85, passed away the morning of Tuesday, April 15 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby. She was born Jan. 26, 1929 to Aurore and Adelard Hamel in Libby. Sometime later the family moved to Kalispell, and then to a permanent home in Troy. She attended and finished school in Troy. She graduated from Troy High School and entered Sacred Heart School of Nursing. She graduated nursing school and worked at Sacred Heart Medical Center for over 20 years.

Jane Herbkersman, 93, of Kalispell

Jane H. Herbkersman, 93, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 13, 2013, at Brendan House in Kalispell.

Mila Mischenko

Mila Mischenko, daughter of Matt and Allison Mischenko, was born at 2:31 p.m. on Feb. 14, 2014. Mila was 21-inches long and weighed 8-pounds, 4-ounces. Dr. Jana Hall delivered Mila at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.

EllyOnna Wood celebrates first birthday

EllyOnna Lee Wood celebrated her first birthday on March 1, 2014.

Libby softball wins fifth-straight game

The Lady Loggers (1-0, 5-0) made it five straight wins Tuesday when they whooped Whitefish, 11-0.

Trojan netters spike Eureka

The Lady Trojan tennis squad picked up an early-season victory Tuesday against Eureka, which does not have a boys team.

Trojan athletes' hard work recognized

Troy High School’s winter athletes were recognized for their efforts Thursday morning during the seasonal sports award ceremony.

Claudette King coming to Blues Festival

B.B. King's daughter to perform at Riverfront

The word is out about the Riverfront Blues Festival, and now top acts are contacting festival organizers and asking to be part of the two-day show.

City plans repaving of 18 blocks of streets

Louisiana, Lincoln, Second streets cited

Libby City Council members have approved a plan to repave 18 blocks of city streets, and while the project will address some of the worst streets in town, some are left wondering why it’s taken so long.

Libby volunteers help mudslide search

At some point during his exhausting days searching for human remains in the leftovers of the mudslide that devastated Oso, Wash., Terry Crooks would stop, take off his hat and face the area where the latest victim was found. The military would step in, escort the grieving family to the site, conduct a quick service, and move on.

Local Briefs

Police Blotter

It's about protecting from scareware, ransomware, spyware

With a startling number of online scams appearing daily and with the detection and prevention of fraudulent activity becoming more complicated, maintaining a secure computer system and practicing safe online habits has never been more important.

Achieving infant tummy time is crucial for development

In 1992, in an effort to reduce the occurrence and risk of sudden infant-death syndrome, pediatricians accepted that the best practice for infants is to sleep on their backs. This practice was very successful and resulted in a 50 percent decrease in the number of sudden infant-death syndrome casualties.  

Freebury-Fincher

Heather Pauline Freebury, daughter of Danny Freebury of Libby, and Ryan Thomas Fincher, son of Mike and Kelly Fincher of Kalispell, plan to marry June 28, 2014, during a private ceremony in Libby.

Two alumni to be inducted into Libby hall

Two Libby High School graduates who left Libby and excelled in their respected careers will be honored at 7 p.m. Monday during the Honor Society’s Induction Ceremony at Ralph Tate Gymnasium.

Robert Petrusha, 88, of Libby

Robert Anthony Petrusha, 88, passed away at his home, surrounded by his loving family, on April 8, 2014.

George Jameson, Jr., 76, of the Yaak

George Russell Jameson, Jr., 76, of the Yaak died at his home on Thursday, April 3, 2014.  

Therapist pleads not guilty

Local physical therapist faces Daniels County drug charges

A man working in Libby as a physical therapist pleaded not guilty to an indictment charging him with conspiracy and acquiring hydrocodone and oxycodone by forgery, fraud or subterfuge.

White supremacist charged with murder in Kansas City shooting

OVERLAND PARK, Kan.  — The man accused of killing three people in attacks at a Jewish community center and Jewish retirement complex near Kansas City is a known white supremacist and former Ku Klux Klan leader who was once the subject of a nationwide manhunt.

Blast in Nigerian capital kills 71

ABUJA, Nigeria (AP) — A massive explosion ripped through a bus station during the morning rush hour in Nigeria’s capital, killing at least 71 people and wounding 124 in a bombing that marked the bloodiest terrorist attack ever in Abuja.

Utah woman arrested after 7 dead babies found

A Utah woman accused of killing seven babies she gave birth to over 10 years was arrested Sunday after police discovered the tiny bodies stuffed in separate cardboard boxes in the garage of her former home.

Plows clearing Glacier's Going-to-the-Sun Road

The surest sign of spring in Glacier National Park is not the long sweet note of the varied thrush or the call of swans sweeping over the Continental Divide — it’s the rumble of diesels and the screech of steel digging into a winter’s worth of snow.

Ronan man sentenced to life for murder

POLSON – After listening to Laurence Kenmille’s family members fight through quivering voices and muffled sobs during victim statements Monday, District Court Judge John Larson wasted little time sentencing Melvin Madplume to life in prison without parole.

Black bear, turkey seasons now open

This is a big week for Montana sportsmen, as the spring turkey season began Saturday and the spring black bear season begins today.

Troy tennis sweeps Mission

Troy Trojans tennis continued its winning ways Saturday at home when both the boys and girls teams defeated Mission.

Trojans soar in shortened track meet

A burst of wintery weather in spring shortened the Bigfork Invitational track and field event Saturday. Before the day was cut short, Troy’s Nathan Olds and Sean Opland managed to claim second and third, respectively, in the boys high jump, both clearing six feet. Opland, a sophomore, also earned second in the 100-meter dash, running the distance in 11.27 seconds, edging Thompson Falls freshman McKenzie Holt, who finished in 11.38 seconds.

Lady Trojans softball drops three games at home

The Lady Trojans (2-5) dropped a doubleheader to Deer Lodge at home Saturday. Troy will host Mission at 4 p.m. Thursday.

Libby softball whips Thompson Falls, 30-0

The Libby Lady Loggers continued their winning ways in dominant fashion Saturday when they no-hit Thompson Falls during a 30-0 victory at home.

Former Libby man gets fourth DUI

A Kalispell man, formerly of Libby, has been charged with his fourth offense of drunk driving after allegedly being stopped for driving without lights on the night of April 5.

Libby High National Honor Society Induction

National Honor Society 2014 inductees back row from left: Tina Smith, Bailie Rosling, Zander Petersen, Dani Hawthorne, Lily Feeback, Cloie Boardner, Jenna Barrick. Front row from left: Jessica Miller, Devan Fuhlendorf, Patrick Keogh, Ashley Walker. Not pictured were Ally Buckner and Shae Munro.

Eureka brewery turns heads with IPA

Off the beaten path, not far from the Canadian border, intrepid beer drinkers can find the best India Pale Ale in Montana — or at least the best according to the Montana Brewers Association.

Turkey Tom

Tom turkey displays his colors under an apple tree in the Pipe Creek area, a sure sign of spring.

Tin Lizzy

Rhiannon Wilson, right, at the wheel of the "Tin Lizzy" built by Dan McLaury, left, with sister Kayrie Couture, center. The three were headed to Fireman's Park on the occasion of Kayrie's 7th birthday. (the car runs on a 6hp, rope-pull motor).

Tennis Lundin

Paired with her twin sister Kellie, Katie Lundin returns a volley vs. Mission in No. 1 doubles Saturday.

Softball Carr

Kylie Carr pitching top of first inning vs. Bonners Ferry 4-10-14.

Softball Rosling

Senior Brooke Rosling doubles to right field bottom of second inning scores Kyra Lauer, 12-0, Lady Loggers.

Multiple fundraising efforts underway for Troy schools

New sound system to be used for football games

A pair of school fundraising efforts is underway in Troy, and early returns are strong.

Rocky Mtn Four

Jerry and Debbie Hersman of Rocky Mountain Music.

Rocky Mtn Five

Burberry Fragrances bag

Obit Nelson

Larry Nelson

Old Photo 4-15-14

Brownies ÒFly-UpÓ Two Junior Girl Scouts hold the bridge as Scout Lea Anne Zunke takes a Brownie under the rainbow from Brownie Scout to rank of Junior Girl Scout. The rainbow ceremony was part of the Brownie Scout Òfly-upÓ ceremony conducted in Pioneer Park Saturday. Photo from the May 21, 1964, files of The Western News.

NHS Induction Ceremony

National Honor Society 2014 inductees back row from left: Tina Smith, Bailie Rosling, Zander Petersen, Dani Hawthorne, Lily Feeback, Cloie Boardner, Jenna Barrick. Front row from left: Jessica Miller, Devan Fuhlendorf, Patrick Keogh, Ashley Walker. Not present were Ally Buckner and Shae Munro.

Madplume

Melvin Madplume sentencing.

Fatal Shooting Kansas

Members of the ATF and FBI search a house belonging to Fraiser Glenn Cross, also known as Frazier Glenn Miller, near Marionville, Mo., The Lawrence County Mo. sheriff and Missouri State Highway Patrol are also on the scene. (AP Photo/Springfield News-Leader, Nathan Papes)

Video reveals music store burglar in the act

Owners offer $1,000 reward for information

The Rocky Mountain Music burglar remains on the lam, but if surveillance video capturing him in action is much help, he will not remain free for long.

Libby sports go Class B

Libby High School sports teams will compete in Class B starting in 2015. Libby School Board members decided to go with the way of dwindling enrollment numbers during Monday’s meeting after Mark Beckman, executive director of the Montana High School Association, recommended Libby reclassify to Class B. The change will begin during the 2015-2016 school year.

Larry A. Nelson, 67, of Libby

Larry A. Nelson, 67, of Libby died from natural causes Wednesday April 9, 2014 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.

Wedding Freebury Fincher

Heather Freebury and Ryan Fincher

Tennis Brown

Taylor Brown vs. Lacey Marquardt at No. 2 singles 4-8-14.

Streets Two

Second Street and California Avenue, southeast corner.

Streets One

Second Street and Montana, northwest corner.

Softball Regh

Staci Regh on the mound vs. Bonners Ferry Badgers 4-7-14.

Hoops Awards

Troy Basketball Coach Cory Andersen shaking hands with Nathan Olds during athletic awards assembly Thursday, April, 10.

Hoops 8th Grade

Eighth grade Libby basketball team that went 5-0 at the tourney in Whitefish.

Health Fair 2014

An estimated 500 people attended the Healthy Discoveries health fair Saturday at the Memorial Center.

Opland wins four events in Eureka

Libby softball wins again; earns coach 200th

Lady Logger softball swept weekend action for a second time in a row Saturday, improving to 4-0 and earning a milestone victory for their coach with easy wins against a pair of Idaho schools.

Trojan tennis fairs well in Libby meet

Twin Trojan netters Katie and Kellie Lundin went undefeated during Saturday’s meet in Libby. The Trojans host Eureka at 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Montana T. rex fossil goes to Smithsonian

er boomed and lightning illuminated their small camper, Kathy Wankel couldn’t help but think that after years of being buried, the few fossilized bones she and her family had dug up that day, and carefully swaddled in towels and an old sweatshirt, did not want to be moved.

Freight-train rail congestion forces Amtrak to change times

Amtrak’s Empire Builder passenger trains will operate on a temporary modified schedule starting April 15 because of freight-train congestion.

Area Briefs

Police Blotter

Mint I team wins Mixed Pool League

The Mint I team won the winter Mixed Pool League on March 12 with 111 wins, followed closely by the VFW team with 101 wins.

Show us the lumber and mineral fairies, please

Letter to the Editor,

Montana conference: Serving locally and leading globally

Secondary students from across Montana attended the 2014 State Leadership Conference for the Montana Association of Business Professionals of America in Billings, Montana, March 9-11, 2014.

Firewise landscaping can help during the 2014 fire season

While most homeowners are aware of planning for fire prevention when building or purchasing a home, there is another important aspect that should be considered. This is the outside landscaping.

Williamses named Nordicfest King, Queen for 30th annual

Royalty for the 30th annual Nordicifest is set, and leading the way are King and Queen Duane and Peggy Williams.

Biologists agree: Census could be better

It was a meeting of the most-known bear biologists in Northwest Montana, and the message was this: Grizzlies are making a comeback in the Cabinet-Yaak Ecosystem, but it could be better.

Sherry Lamey, 67, of Libby

Sherry Jean Lamey, 67, of Libby died Saturday, April 5, 2014, at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center from natural causes.  

Amona Pearsall, 44, of Troy

Amona Leah Fairbairn Pearsall of Troy went home to be with her Heavenly Father on April 3, 2014.  

Tennis Haggerty

Senior Luke Haggerty vs. Libby's Colin Maloney at No. 3 singles 4-5-14

Softball Regh

Junior Staci Regh's base hit scores 1 (10-0 Loggers) bottom of the 4th vs. Timberlake Tigers 4-5-14

Softball Benefield

Junior Auria Benefield doubles to center field vs. Timberlake bottom of 2 with 2 out. (6-0 Loggers)

Schwab Glass

Les Schwab Tire Center's Robb MacDonald, left, and Loren Dodge of Cherry Creek Glass survey the damage Tuesday morning after a car owned by Megan Powell wandered its way into the store front.

Old Photo 4-8-14

Members of Boy Scout Troops 66 and 25 assisted the Lincoln County Library staff to move books from the old to the new library Saturday. Inside of the new library the human chain passes the books to the librarians who place them on the shelves. Photo from the May 14, 1964, files of The Western News.

Claudette King, daughter of B.B. King, coming to Riverfront Blues Festival

Claudette King, the youngest daughter of blues legend B.B. King, is coming to the Riverfront Blues Festival this summer.

Malaysia vows: We will give plane families closure

PERTH, Australia — Leaders of the two countries heading multinational efforts to solve the mystery of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370 pledged Thursday that no effort would be spared to give the families of those on board the answers they need.

Fort Hood gunman sought mental help

FORT HOOD, Texas — An Iraq War veteran being treated for mental illness was the gunman who opened fire at Fort Hood, killing three people and wounding 16 others before committing suicide, in an attack on the same Texas military base where more than a dozen people were slain in 2009, authorities said.

Ex-lawmaker pleads guilty to charge

HELENA — A former state legislator pleaded guilty Wednesday to theft, bribery and tax-evasion charges for taking hundreds of thousands of dollars in kickbacks and bribes from consultants and contractors who were awarded federal money for projects on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation.

Report: 2014 Bakken oilfield output tops 1.1 million barrels a day

WILLISTON, N.D. — Oil production in North Dakota and Montana’s Bakken and Three Forks formations will average 1.1 million barrels per day this year, according to estimates announced Wednesday by a research firm.

Munros mark 20 years serving Lincoln County

As Treasure Mountain Casino, Restaurant and Lounge marks its 20th anniversary next week, Mike Munro, who co-owns the business with his wife, Dori, understands the connection of a successful business to the community.

Sheriff, Sheffield react to dismissal

Hubbard case ends; officials speak freely

After years of biting their tongues, county officials were eager to speak Monday when Rob Hubbard’s corruption case was dismissed from U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremiah Lynch’s court.

Young entrepreneur opens area tattoo shop

Surrounded by canvases covered in his colorful, graffiti-style designs, Allen Wright sketches in his first tattoo shop. Above him gazes a faux-gold Buddha statute sitting on a shelf supporting a rainbow of ink bottles, sterile solutions and latex gloves.

Questions giving to a doctor who admits killing

Letter to the Editor,

Bear biologist reminds us more than flowers emerge in the spring

April has arrived and Fish, Wildlife & Parks would like to remind residents that it’s time to think about securing attractants that might unintentionally draw in a bear and cause a conflict.

The art of how not to respond to charges of hypocrisy

More than a decade ago, neoconservative bloggers coined the term “Fisking” for the polemical device (originally demonstrated against left-leaning journalist Robert Fisk) of taking apart a commentary, sentence by sentence,  analytically ripping each part to shreds.

A Montanore milestone

Non-jeopardy biological opinion clears large hurdle for mine

The release of the biological opinion for the Montanore Mine project by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service leaves only the Environmental Impact Statement and the Record of Decision remaining for permitting.

Tattoo Wright

Allen Wright

Wagner to pay Cleveland's $7K deductible

Michael Wagner agreed in Justice Court on Tuesday to pay the $7,000 medical deductible as a result of the Nov. 16 accidental shooting of John Cleveland.

Ella Eide

Ella Eide, daughter of Jonathan Ryan and Nikki Eide of Troy, was born 11:14 a.m. March 11, 2014.

Williston Recreation Center

In this March 27, 2014 photo an oil derrickand the flames of gas fires decorate an indoor water park at a new recreation center in oil-rich Williston, North Dakota. The city hopes the center will help draw families to North Dakota's oil patch. (AP Photo/Josh Wood)

Jase Freebury

Jase Freebury, son of Chris and Bethany Freebury of Libby, was born 10:42 p.m. Feb. 19, 2014.

Bakken Oilfields

FILE - In this July 26, 2011, file photo, a worker hangs from an oil derrick outside of Williston, N.D. Justin Kringstad, the director of the North Dakota Pipeline Authority said proposed increases of tar sands oil from Canada likely will not have an impact on the state's soaring oil production. Kringstad said refinery destinations for the two crudes may differ because heavy sour crude from Alberta's tar sands is of lower-value and more difficult to refine than North Dakota's light sweet crude. (AP Photo/Gregory Bull, File)

Weston Scott

Weston Scott, son of Mark and Emily Scott of Troy, was born 1:16 a.m. March 4, 2014.

Fort Hood

Lt. Gen. Mark Milley, the senior officer on base, speaks with the media outside of an entrance to the Fort Hood military base following a shooting that occurred inside, Wednesday, April 2, 2014, in Fort Hood, Texas. Four people were killed, including the gunman, and 16 were wounded in the attack, authorities said. (AP Photo/Tamir Kalifa)

Echo R. Newton

Echo Rose Newton, daughter of Mikealla Newton of Troy, was born at 10:40 a.m. March 17, 2014.

Nahla C. Miller

Nahla Claudette Miller, daughter of Erik and June Miller of Libby, was born 4:44 a.m. March 2, 2014.

Gracie M. Scott

Gracie Marie Scott, daughter of Ben and Heather Scott of Libby, was born at 9:02 a.m. March 13, 2014.

Birth Scott, Gracie

Gracie Marie Scott

Kay McCann, 93, of Libby

Kay McCann, 93, passed away April 1, 2014, at the Libby Care Center.

Birth Scott, Weston

Parents: Emily and Mark Scott Baby Name: Weston Scott Baby Gender: Male Date of Birth: 03/04/2014 Time of Birth: 1:16 am Height: 19 1Ú2Ó Weight: 7 lbs 9 oz Delivered By: Dr. Hall Family From: Troy, MT

Birth Newton

Echo Rose Newton

Birth Miller

Nahla Claudette Miller

Birth Freebury

Jase Freebury

Birth Eide

Ella Elaine Eide

Opland stars for Troy track and field

The Troy Trojan track and field team earned third in their first team meet at the Ronan Invitational.

Young Logger netters earn first win

Libby Logger tennis split a season-opening duel with Polson and Hamilton.

Libby softball sweeps; Troy stumbles

Libby Logger softball got off to a strong start, easily winning a pair Saturday against Butte Central and Anaconda in Polson.

Police Blotter

Two in Libby file for board

Konzen is sole filer in Troy

Two candidates — an incumbent and another — have filed for the two expiring seats on the Libby School Board of Trustees. The filing deadline ended Thursday.

Bull Lake Fire District looks to its first election

Three candidates vie for two positions

Registered voters in the Bull Lake Volunteer Fire District will vote for two-of-three candidates to fill expiring terms in what will be the first election in the district’s 25-year history.

Fish, Wildlife & Parks budget scrutiny

BOZEMAN — Few state programs are as successful as Montana’s Block Management Program in opening up more land to give hunters more opportunity to fill their tags.

Music store burglarized

Access gained through Sears

A brazen burglary attempt on a local music store may have gone according to plan had it not been for an early morning, once-a-year inventory count next door.

Area Briefs

Kalispell father files lawsuit over death in North Dakota

The father of a Kalispell man who was crushed to death in a North Dakota oilfield accident in January 2013 has filed a lawsuit against the owners of the drilling rig and the well site.

Trapping is part of our Montana heritage

Letter to the Editor,

Sheep, while easier to care for than cattle, have their own needs

Many of the people in our area have small grassy acreages that are suitable for livestock, but they don’t have the facilities to work with cattle. On these little farms, sheep are a nearly ideal livestock choice.  

Native birds provide a symphony for our spring enjoyment

It’s a cool Saturday morning, and I am nestled in the cradle of a spring slumber. My window is open, and the fresh air is aromatherapy. I roll to my other side thinking how nice 10 more minutes in bed would be.

Top to Dog results

Judge: Abuse case can proceed

HELENA — A federal judge ruled that 95 people can pursue sex-abuse claims in state court against an order of nuns during bankruptcy proceedings involving the Roman Catholic Diocese of Helena.

Restitution hearing set Tuesday for shooting

Michael Wagner, the 48-year-old Libby man who shot and critically wounded another man on Nov. 16 near Libby Creek Road, will be in Lincoln County Justice Court on Tuesday for a restitution hearing.

Newlywed killer gets 30-year prison term for killing husband

MISSOULA — A Kalispell woman was sentenced Thursday to more than 30 years in prison for killing her husband of eight days by pushing him from a cliff in Glacier National Park after they argued over her regrets about the marriage.

Hubbard case against Lincoln County dismissed

A former Libby man’s case alleging corruption among county officials, including Sheriff Roby Bowe, was dismissed Monday.

Top Dog Six

Canada sprints to the finish.

Softball Thill

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

Old Photo 4-1-14

Bunnies Galore Laurie Scott and Rhonda Kienzle were up to their necks in bunnies, baskets and planning Wednesday for the annual Troy Easter Egg Hunt. This is KienzleÕs second Easter egg hunt in Troy. Last year she assisted Fran Stanton who started the hunt 14 years ago. ÒShe started out with five bunnies and five bucks,Ó Kienzle said. ÒShe got the people to volunteer and it grew slowly over the years.Ó Photo from the April 1, 1994, files of The Western News.

Derby Winners

Winners of the 2014 Pinewood Derby held at Libby Elementary Saturday were from left: Sean Sanderson, first; Shane Stinson, second; Tyler Albert, third and most unique; Alex Barber, fourth; Sam Stinson, most original. Sean set a new track record of 162.2 scaled mph to claim first, beating a previous record held by Declan Faulkner of 161.0.

Derby Stinson

Sam Stinson trackside, dreaming of a first place finish.

Derby Moeller

Sam Stinson, left, Rusty Gillespie, Grant Larson, Maellen Nelson, Bo Sanderson and Caleb Moeller watch intently Saturday during Pinewood Derby 2014 at Libby Elementary. In all there were 17 contestants with the top prize going to Sean Sanderson who set a new track record of 162.2 scaled mph, beating a previous record by Declan Faulkner of 161.0.

Derby Albert

Tyler Albert, left, watches intently as Jacob Large imagines a photo finish Saturday during the 2014 Pinewood Derby at Libby Elementary.