Ellington

Bankrupt co-op, creditor reach deal

BILLINGS — A bankrupt Montana electric cooperative announced a tentative deal with creditors Wednesday that would keep customer rates at current levels and allow it to unload a largely unused power plant near Great Falls that helped drag it into bankruptcy.

Prosecutors: Glacier Park newlywed lacks grounds to withdraw her plea

HELENA — A Montana woman facing sentencing for pushing her husband off a cliff in Glacier National Park eight days after the two were married last summer should not be allowed to withdraw her guilty plea to second-degree murder, federal prosecutors argued.

Ninety still missing in mudslide area

DARRINGTON, Wash.  — Becky Bach watches and waits, hoping that search crews find her brother and three other relatives who are missing in Washington state’s deadly mudslide.

Area Briefs

Police Blotter

Weather hampers search for jetliner

PERTH, Australia — The clues keep piling up: more and more mysterious objects spotted bobbing in the southern Indian Ocean, perhaps part of the missing Malaysian airliner, perhaps not. But just as the night sky depicts the universe as it once was, the satellite images that reveal these items are also a glance backward in time.

Youth Conservation Corps accepting applications

The Lincoln County Resource Advisory Committee reviews locally submitted project proposals that either improve the maintenance of existing infrastructure, implement stewardship objectives that enhance forest ecosystems, or restore and improve land health and water quality.  

After injury, Troy looks to freshman pitcher

Despite the loss of their starting pitcher and projected No. 3 hitter due to a knee injury, the Troy Lady Trojans softball team expects to make some noise behind seven returning starters.

Libby softball returns a strong roster

The Libby Lady Logger softball squad returns nine players with significant varsity experience in one of Montana’s toughest conferences.

Strong turnout for Libby track and field

The Libby Logger track team opened practice last week with 50 kids looking to run, jump and throw.

Multisport athletes show all-around skills in Troy track

The team may be only 22 strong, but Troy track and field boasts a pair of All-State high-jumpers and a slew of impressive athletes.

Lundin twins lead Troy tennis

After a season apart on the hardwood, identical twins Katie and Kellie Lundin will share their senior seasons on the tennis court as Troy’s top doubles duo. Last year’s sixth-place finishers at the state tournament, the Lundins will look to improve under second-year Coach Milo Rogers.

Logger tennis looks to build on youth

The rebuilding process begins this season for Libby Logger tennis. After graduating 18 seniors, the Loggers carry three seniors and zero juniors on a 24-student roster.

Online testing works for LES

The technology push at Libby Elementary School is paying off.

Electric rates to increase

Flathead Electric to hike rates 2.4 percent in June bills

Flathead Electric Cooperative members will see higher bills beginning in June, according to utility officials.

Hikes afford the moments to reflect on the beauty around us

There are moments when all is still, and all that’s felt is pure peace and serenity. Moments when just the surroundings can take a breath away. These moments are meant to be cherished.

Why it takes so long to get a project approved in America

Cabinet Mountain Brewing Co. to tap interest with July opening

Construction is under way, gutting the building formerly occupied by Cabinet Mountain Furniture on Mineral Avenue to make way for Cabinet Mountain Brewing Co.’s equipment. If all goes according to plan, customers will be sucking suds inside by July.

Kalispell murder-suicide pair ID'd; cops investigate

Kalispell police have identified the victims in Tuesday’s apparent murder-suicide as Stacy and Dan Fleck, both 51.

Top to Dog Race slated for Saturday

es and weirdos rocking Hawaiian T-shirts will take to Turner Mountain on Saturday for the annual Top to Dog Race.

David Jacobs, 56, formerly of Libby

David Edwin Jacobs, 56 of Huntsville, Ala., passed away on Feb. 28, 2014, in San Antonio, Texas.

Gerald Brinton, 82, formerly of Libby

Gerald “Jerry” Scott Brinton, 82, of Pagosa Springs, Colo., died on Feb. 10, 2014 at his home.

Lois Thoeny, 76, of Libby

Lois Ione Farquhar Thoeny  died March 18, 2014. She was was born Sept 8, 1937, in Glasgow to Howard and Fern Farquhar.

James Kohler, Sr., 79, of Libby

James R. Kohler, Sr., 79, of Libby, died Sunday March 23, 2014, at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby.  

Vets Check

Terry Andreessen, left, Robin Benson, Terry Pitcher, Ken Mancuso, Larry Pitcher, Paula Darko-Hensler, Kerry Mann and Pam Peppenger.

Track Rice

Troy's Trinity Rice takes an early lead in the 3200 over Libby's Cody Barrrick and Jonathan Miller. Miller overtook Rice to win the event and Barrick placed third.

Track Craig

Hailey Craig vs Flathead 5-10-13

Track Olds

Nathan Olds competes in the high jump during the Libby Invite Saturday.

Tennis Stever

Azure Stever vs. Eureka 4-9-13.

Tennis Schnackenberg

Jason Schnackenberg

Softball Thill

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

Softball Rebo

Second baseman Rachel Rebo backs up Devon Gallagher at first for the second out top of 2 vs. the Priest River Spartans. The Lady Loggers went on to win the 7-inning contest 8 to 3 on a very soggy field.

Softball Johnston

First baseman Caitlin Johnston third out top of the fourth on a throw from shortstop Breanna Opland vs. Plains. (first of a doubleheader)

Softball Klin

Pouring down rain didn't seem to bother centerfielder Kelsey Klin who had a great catch in deep center top of the fifth vs. Polson.

Softball Benefield

Auria Benefield base hit scores one bottom of two vs. Polson.

Mudslide Area

This March 24, 2014 aerial photo released by the U.S. Geological Survey shows the extent and impacts from the March 22 mudslide near Arlington in northwest Washington state. Sixteen bodies have been recovered, but authorities believe at least 24 people were killed. And scores of others are still unaccounted for, although many of those names were believed to be duplicates or people who escaped safely. (AP Photo/King County Sheriff, Air Support Unit)

Play Two

The small town of Victor, home of Craig Helmrick as Felix and Kellie Lundin as Vickie in Troy High School's production of Ducktails and Bobbysox. The play included a surprise visit from fifties rock 'n roll star Curtis (Michael Demmendaal) who encounters an uproarious cast of characters and reckless happenings including the kidnapping of football hero Alex Fenton (Nathan Olds) just before the big game.

Play Three

Football hero Alex Fenton (Nathan Olds), left, squares off with Yellow Jacket gang leader Wheels (Luke Haggerty). Wheels kidnaps Alex and ties him up just prior to the big game.

Play Six

Wilbur and Bertha, the awkward boy and girl played by Liam Hennsley and Tristyn Winebark headed to Lookout Point to "study the constellations."

Play One

The Bobbysoxers face off with the Yellow Jacket gang in Troy High School's production of "Ducktails & Bobbysox" Tuesday evening. The 90-minute play included songs such as "Elvis, Buddy and Me," "Bobby Sock Hop," and "Homecoming Rock."

Play Four

Grant High School's Class of '44, Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins, John Fossen and Maria Hawk.

Play Five

Grant High School's Class of '44, Mr. and Mrs. Hawkins, John Fossen and Maria Hawk.

Obit Brinton

Gerald Scott Brinton

Whitefish man sentenced for rape of baby sitter, 15

KALISPELL — A 25-year-old Whitefish man who with his wife supplied a 15-year-old baby sitter with marijuana and alcohol and then raped her has been sentenced to five years in prison without parole.

Officials mull uphill ban as Whitefish skiers trespass

WHITEFISH — The U.S. Forest Service and Whitefish Mountain Resort are considering changes to the resort’s policy of allowing skiers to travel uphill after two people entered an area with active avalanche control.

Three Forks turns to privatized flood insurance

THREE FORKS — More than 1,800 Montana residents and businesses now receiving discounted flood insurance through a federal program are facing premium hikes despite a congressional rate-relief bill that softened the worst of the increases.

Russell painting sells for $1.25 million

GREAT FALLS — An oil painting by Western artist Charlie Russell depicting a horse thief waving a white flag amid dead and injured horse thieves as well as dead horses has sold for $1.25 million.

Wolf action galvanizes groups

BOISE, Idaho — Idaho’s wolf population is on the decline, heading toward 10 breeding pairs, or 150 wolves.

Idaho OKs year-round wolf hunt; act galvanizes anti-hunting groups

LEWISTON, Idaho — Wolf-hunting season will be open 365 days a year on private property in northern Idaho’s Clearwater Region.

Firewood collection permits expire; new permits take effect April 1

The current National Forest personal-use firewood permits expire on March 31.  Persons interested in gathering firewood for their personal use will need a new permit beginning Tuesday, April 1.

Sitting on the world's largest volcano

Washington state mudslide death toll at 8; 108 missing

ARLINGTON, Wash. — The search for survivors of a deadly Washington state mudslide grew Monday to include 108 names of people who were reported missing or were unaccounted for, but authorities cautioned the figure would likely decline dramatically.

Troy City Council lays McLeod payment to rest

An unusually expedient Troy City Council meeting finalized the matter of paying Police Chief Bob McLeod’s legal fees for his successful Public Safety Officer Standards and Training Council defense.

Voters will decide the mills, fate of Troy Area Dispatch

The first of several votes ending a pattern of unchecked tax increases perpetuated for more than a decade will be held during June elections when voters determine the fate of Troy Area Dispatch District.

Malaysian Prime Minister: Plane crashed in Indian Ocean

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — After 17 days of desperation and doubt over the missing Malaysia Airlines jet, the country’s officials said an analysis of satellite data points to a “heartbreaking” conclusion: Flight 370 met its end in the southern reaches of the Indian Ocean, and none of those aboard survived.

Didymo research grows interesting Kootenai River facts

A little less than a year ago, I wrote an article describing the start of a research project on the Kootenai River aimed at investigating a species of algae known as “didymo” (scientific name Didymosphenia geminata). Although didymo has probably always been present in the Kootenai River, it began forming noticeable dense growths or “mats” downstream of Libby Dam in the early 2000s.  

Bedford Falls has nothing on Libby for generosity and kindness

Letter to the Editor,

Defending the freedom - rights - to snow ski

Letter to the Editor,

Area Briefs

Dam cost increases $172K

Engineers attribute hike to revisiting of Section 7 requirement

A project as involved as the Flower Creek Dam often has cost overruns, however, City Council members on Thursday learned the cost of the project has increased $172,300 before actual construction begins.

Officials: Added bandwidth offers hope

The second of a series of economic development meetings organized by the Friends of Scotchman Peaks and a consortium of other organizations was held March 20 in Troy High School’s library.

Stanley L. Potter, 74, of Troy

Stanley L. Potter, 74, of Libby died Monday, March 10, 2014, at his home.  

Belle Anderson, 70, formerly of Troy

Belle E. (Cummings) Anderson, longtime resident of Portland, Ore., passed away on Feb. 3, 2014, at her home with her children by her side.

Alene Noble-Adkison, 70, of Hollis, Alaska

Alene (Sherry) Charlotte Noble-Adkison, 70, of Hollis, Alaska, passed away Feb. 28, 2014, in Hollis.

Woodpecker Two

Pair of pileated woodpeckers.

Veterans Memorial Check

Terry Andreessen, left, Robin Benson, Terry Pitcher, Ken Mancuso, Larry Pitcher, Paula Darko-Hensler, Kerry Mann and Pam Peppenger.

Sheila Running

Valedictorian for the Troy High School Class of 1964 is Sheila Marilyn Running with a grade point average of 3.667. April 23, 1964

Old Photo 3-25-14

State Volleyball Champions Jaime Volkmann, left, winds up for a kill while Catie McElmurry waits defensively for the dig. At right Beth Prieve cheers the team on during the State B volleyball championship against the Choteau Bulldogs. The Lady Trojans won their second consecutive State B title defeating the Bulldogs 16-14, 16-14. Joe Chopyak photos from the March 23, 1994, files of The Western News.

Obit Anderson

Belle Anderson

Ducks Kelly

Teri Kelly

Wanda Brown

Salutatorian for the Troy High School Class of 1964 is Wanda Louise Brown who had a 3.483 grade point average. April 23, 1964

Officials: Missing plane went down in Indian Ocean

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — After 17 days of desperation and doubt over the missing Malaysia Airlines jet, the country's officials said an analysis of satellite data points to a "heartbreaking" conclusion: Flight 370 met its end in the southern reaches of the Indian Ocean, and none of those aboard survived.

Archery club to host free instruction Saturday

The Libby Archery Club is offering a free archery Instruction class Saturday, March 22, from 10 a.m. to noon at Lincoln Lanes bowling alley in Libby.

Lawmakers seek to retain wolf protections

Eight legislative candidates removed

HELENA — Eight legislative candidates did not file their required business disclosures and have been removed from the ballot, eliminating five contested primary races and leaving two Democratic candidates without Republican opponents in November’s general election.

Law-Enforcement Blotter

Sixth Annual Libby High School Talent Show

Adam Neisess, of the band The Munchkins performed Tuesday during the Talent Show. Other band members included Wyatt Postlethwaite, Morgan Wilkins, Skyler Higareda and Jason Schnackenberg. The band finished second. Billy Topaz performed a routine made famous by comedian Bill Cosby. In the third photo, Anthony Dewey’s original drama “The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian” won third place. A total of 14 acts participated in the annual talent contest held at the Memorial Center. The competition was won by Staci Regh, who sang and played the piano. Gabby Deleo emceed the event that was attended by 400-plus. 

Trio Voronezh, a Russian ensemble, brings unique mix to Memorial Center

Performing at the Libby Memorial Center for the final event of the season Thursday, March 27, is the acclaimed Russian Trio Voronezh.  

Lincoln Theatre carries on as the movie world turns digitial

Josh and Tina Moore were looking for a home in Troy when a phone call, out of the blue, left them with much more.

County unemployment rate hits 18 percent

Local office boasts 89 job openings

Montana’s unemployment rate may have dropped one-tenth of a percentage point in January to 5.3 percent, but that’s no consolation to Lincoln County residents seeking work who are witnessing jobless rates at more than three times the state rate.

Proposed FWP license fee increases could have benefits

Increasing hunting and fishing license fees will surely be one of the most hotly debated items during the current legislative session. Montana’s Department of Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) has proposed substantial increases in virtually every license issued to Montana residents.

We're losing our war on terrorism; it's time to adopt a better strategy

Letter to the Editor,

THS students begin 10th annual Wings effort

Letter to the Editor,

LES carnival beats the winter blahs

Half of student body returns for games of winter carnival

The Libby Elementary School Carnival was the brainchild of Assistant Principal Scott Beagle and the Parents Council to further behavioral lessons and improve attendance, but it turned out to accomplish that and more.

Plea bargain for Peterson

Attempted deliberate homicide charge is dropped

An agreement in the case against a man accused of cracking his wife’s skull with a baseball bat while she lay sleeping at home resulted in the man pleading guilty to aggravated assault Monday.

Life sentence sought for Glacier newlywed killer

Federal prosecutors recommended a life sentence for a 22-year old Kalispell newlywed who pleaded guilty to murder for pushing her new husband off a cliff in Glacier National Park.

Betty Henderson, 89, formerly of Libby

Betty Mae Henderson was born March 26, 1924, in Billings. She spent her childhood in Libby.

Kay K. Kins, 77, of the Yaak

Kay Kenneth Kins peacefully laid his head in his wife’s lap on Monday, March 10, 2014, and took his last breath. It was such a loving way to leave this world, ending his two-year battle with a rare form of skin cancer.   

Glenn Aarstad, 78, of Libby

Glenn Aarstad, 78, passed from this life peacefully on March 6, 2014.  

Top youth Scattergun marksmen

The top youth shooters during the Libby Scatterguns Trap Season include Tanner DeHaven, Colton Moore and Roy Hyde.  In addition to receiving trophies for their marksmanship, Mel Siefke, owner of Wildlife Recapture, gave each youth a $100 bill so they may purchase anything to further their shooting skills. 

Top adult skeet and trap marksmen

The top adult marksmen during the recent Libby Scatterguns Skeet and Trap season include, from left, Tom Bailey, Mike Cirian and Dan Ackerman. Bailey led all shooters in the nine-week skeet competition while Cirian edged Ackerman for the trap title. 

Theatre Two

Owners of Troy's Lincoln Theatre Josh and Tina Moore.

Theatre

Lincoln Theatre owners Tina and Josh Moore.

Talent Topaz

Billy Topaz performed Bill Cosby's "How I Became a Marked Man" during Libby High School's 6th Annual Talent Show.

Talent Neisess

Adam Neisess, of the band The Munchkins. Other members included Wyatt Postlethwaite, Morgan Wilkins, Skyler Higareda and Jason Schnackenberg. The Munchkins took home a second place prize of $50.

Talent Dewey

Anthony Dewey's original drama "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part Time Indian" won second place and $25.

Flight makes an emergency Helena stop

Associated Press

Neighbors rescue man, 78, from fire

NAPLES, Idaho — Bill McIntosh, 78, was taking a shower when a fire broke out in the kitchen of his Camp Nine residence on Friday, Feb. 28.

Area Briefs

LVFD firefighters raise $1,800

Local troops use friendly competition for an honorable cause

Libby Volunteer Fire Department members Scott Beagle and Ryan Andreessen raised more than $1,800 for their efforts climbing a skyscraper in full firefighter garb.

EPA to change removal criteria

New technique could allow for vermiculite

Bolstered by the completed release of background soil studies, the Environmental Protection Agency has formalized a decision process for the removal of contaminated soils in Libby.

Police Blotter

Montana Sky to improve service

Fiber optic upgrade benefits residents, businesses in area

Libby residents may soon notice an uptick in download speeds when watching cat videos on YouTube.

Audit confirms tax error

Commissioners look to reimburse taxpayers $2.2 million

An independent audit of county taxes confirmed accounting errors cost Lincoln County taxpayers an extra $2.2 million during the last three years.

Burke leaves Port Authority, becomes CFO at Cabinet Peaks

The Lincoln County Port Authority is without an executive director for the second time in four months, as Brigid Burke has left the position to become the chief financial officer at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.

Water Compact too confusing to receive commissioners' approval

Letter to the Editor,

It was wrong for Troy to pay McLeod's legal bills

Letter to the Editor,

Time is running out to sign up for insurance

Procrastinators, it’s time.

Sons of Norway marks 40th anniversary

Norhaven 536, the local Sons of Norway lodge, has been celebrating its 40th anniversary since March 1 with the showing of the movie, Kon Tiki. The event was held at Christ Lutheran Church.

Seven more moose collared for study

Seven additional cow moose were darted and captured in the East Cabinet study area south of Libby last week and fitted with radio collars.  

Francis Pearson, 84, of Troy

Francis (Sonny) Eugene Pearson, 84, joined his beloved wife, Janet, March 12, 2014, in a heavenly eternal embrace.

Roy Sather, 83, of Libby

Roy “Sam” Sather, 83, of Libby passed away Thursday, March 13, 2014 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.  

Deal complete: Barringer signed contract is received

The deal was signed, sealed and delivered.

Old Photo 3-18-14

Four Timers The Lady Trojans show their trophy after beating Thompson Falls in the championship match at the Western B Divisional tournament. It was their fourth straight divisional title. Players and coaches are: Shana Lippert, left, Anna Drury, Beth Prieve, Audra Brown, Coach Glen Herman, Wendi Winslow, Jennifer Williams, Amy Winslow, Carmin Myers, Coach Dennis Latimer, Catie McElmurry, Head Coach Rich Ramondelli and Jame Volkmann. Photo from the March 16, 1994, files of The Western News.

Editorial Sebelius

FILE - In this Dec. 11, 2013, file photo, Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius testifies on Capitol Hill in Washington. President Barack Obama’s budget pushes the HHS budget over $1 trillion for the first time, reflecting an aging population adding to the Medicare rolls, as well as expanded coverage for younger people through the new health law. HHS runs Medicare, Medicaid and the insurance expansion in Obama's health overhaul law, which together provide coverage for about 1 in 3 Americans. Its growing prominence in the federal budget reflects the rise of benefit programs, which now account for more than two-thirds of all government spending. (AP Photo/Susan Walsh, File)

New Years Eve Deluxe Snack Pack • New Years Eve Deluxe Coupon Dec 31 2013 Party starts at 7pm THIS IS NOT AN ADMISSION COUPON!!

Carousel Roller Rink

Johnston wins regional hoops contest

Libby’s sharp-shooting champ took his talents to Rapid City, S.D. last week and came out on top.

Scatterguns Trap & Skeet

Saturday is the deadline to apply for elk hunting permits

This Saturday, March 15, is the deadline to apply for Montana’s 2014 deer and elk hunting permits.

Winslow, a three-sport all-stater, looks back

Watching film in his basement, something he has done for countless hours as a coach’s son, Jared Winslow can remember the pitch sequences he threw in a game last summer. Picked from stacks of recorded basketball, baseball and football games, Winslow correctly recalls striking out an opposing Lewiston Cub on a filthy circle changeup.

Area Briefs

Kootenai Klassic Wrestling Tourney

Rotarians travel to aid those less fortunate

George Gerard and Eileen Carney were among the more than 200 participants at the Central American Rotary Project Fair in Antigua, Guatemala, in late January.

Flower Creek Dam funding in jeopardy

Behind the decaying concrete that is the Flower Creek Dam is the sole source for Libby’s water supply. For more than a year, a permitting snafu has delayed the project, and it now appears the city may miss a third release date of federal funding for the project that was originally estimated to cost $8.2 million.

Where Congress falls short...and where it doesn't

At a public gathering the other day, someone asked me how I’d sum up my views on Congress. It was a good question, because it forced me to step back from worrying about the current politics of Capitol Hill and take a longer view.

FWP to consider an increase in license fees

Your Region 1 FWP Citizens Advisory Committee members were made aware during the latest meeting in Kalispell Region 1 Headquarters that there is an ongoing study regarding the decreasing funds for FWP activities statewide, which will ultimately result in an increase in overall resident hunting and fishing licensing fees.

Local businesses: The ins and outs

The following is a round-up of local business activity:

Business leaders express frustration with process

U.S. Forest Service explains lengthy Montanore process; merchants urge movement

Upon the conclusion of the Libby merchant-requested meeting Tuesday with U.S. Forest Service officials on the Montanore Mine permitting process, it was clear both sides want the same thing — a successful document that will survive a legal challenge.

Brielle L. Holzer

Brielle Lyn Holzer, daughter of Brandon and Tanya Holzer of Libby, was born 12:20 a.m. Jan. 11, 2014.

Hawken Lampton

Hawken Lampton, son of Jared and Deborah Lampton of Libby, was born at 8:33 a.m. Jan. 22, 2014.

Chase Haywood

Chase Ryan Haywood, son of Chuck Haywood and Bonnie Loveall of Libby, was born 2:58 p.m. Feb. 19, 2014.

Deegan Rebo

Deegan James Rebo, son of Jennifer Rebo of Kalispell, was born 8:52 p.m. Jan. 11, 2014.

Samson Skranak

Samson Skranak, son of Matt and Amber Skranak of Libby, was born 6:32 p.m. Feb. 21, 2014.

Carey Clawson, 53, formerly of Libby

Carey Robbin (Rob) Clawson, 53, formerly of Libby, has died.

Vernon Thomen, Sr., 76, of Troy

Vernon Roy Thomen, Sr., 76, of Troy, died Dec.16, 2013, from injuries sustained in a vehicle accident on Highway 56 South of Troy.  

County sells finger jointer

Port Authority purchases equipment to lease to entrepreneurs

The finger jointer, idle for five years, soon will be producing again.

Winslow Two

Winslow bunt second game of doubleheader vs. Glacier 7-21-13

Winslow Three

Senior quarterback Jared Winslow on a keeper for a first down in fourth quarter vs. Anaconda.

Winslow Four

QB Jared Winslow runs for a first down on a third down play first quarter vs. Bonners Ferry

Winslow Five

Jared Winslow's hasty jump shot in the second quarter won't go vs Thompson Falls. 1-10-13

Ryggs Hoop Shoot

Ryggs Johnston, 13 yrs of Libby, won the Boys 12-13 yrs Division at the 42nd Annual Regional Elks Hoop Shoot held in Rapid City, S.D. on March 8th. In an eerily quiet gym, he drained 24/25 free throws. The silent crowd could not hold back a groan when the 25th basket didnÕt fall in as they were hoping to see a perfect 25 like 2 yrs ago. The shooter from South Dakota also made 24 forcing a shoot off for 1st place. When the pressure was really on, Ryggs stepped up to the line and knocked down 5/5 shots to beat his opponent who missed on the 4th shot. Hitting 29/30 free throws also earned him the ÒBest of the BestÓ Male Shooter Award. From the local contest through regionals, Ryggs has made 98/105 free throws, which is 93.3%. He will now advance to the National Hoop Shoot in Springfield, M.A. on April 12th. Two years ago, Ryggs took 2nd there. Nearly 3,000,000 boys and girls between the ages of 8-13 throughout the U.S. will have participated in the ElkÕs Hoop Shoot this year from the local level to the National level. The field has now been reduced to 72 kids, 12 in each division. Only 6 will be crowned National Champions. In 42 years Montana has produced 5 National Champions. Besides funding the trip for all the families, the Elks treated the contestants to a limo ride from the motel to the gym.

Birth Skranak

Samson Skranak

Birth Rebo

Deegan James Rebo

Birth Holzer

Brielle Lyn Holzer

Birth Lampton

Hawken Lampton, DOB 01-22-14

Birth Haywood

Chase Ryan Haywood

Kootenai Klassic: It's so much more than just a wrestling event

The first thing to know about Montana is there are not many people around — about 1 million in 150,000-square miles — so, social events, particularly ones involving people you have not seen every week of your life, are rare.

Area Briefs

District awaits signature

Board unanimously approves a two-year, $98,000 contract

All that remains for the Libby School District to have a new superintendent is a signature on a contract.

Irish Fair features more than green; there's music, crafts and diversity

U.S. Census Bureau figures list 34.5 million Americans with heritage as either primarily or partially Irish, which is more than seven times the population of Ireland today.

Teen in sex case to be treated as a juvenile

Wheelis chastises boy, 17

A 17-year-old boy will be charged as a minor in a case alleging he had sex with a 13-year-old girl with whom he attends school.

Floating mills: It's undefined

Vincent plans to address those taxing uncertainties

An audit of Lincoln County’s finances will be completed this week, and commissioners say the numbers are quite similar to those initially reported last month, confirming the accounting error that resulted in $2.2 million of excess taxes during the last three years.

Berget files for commissioner on last day

Presiding Commissioner Tony Berget was a last-day filer Monday for the June 3 Primary Election.

Libby resident says Rep. Daines failed to respond to his certified letters

Letter to the Editor,

Springtime can be an eventful time for our felines

Lengthening periods of daylight not only tell us that spring is at hand, but also signal much of the animal world to begin again the cycle of reproduction.  

The war against work, wealth and prosperity

The Congressional Budget Office’s recent analysis of the Affordable Care Act concludes that it will result in the equivalent of 2.3 million full-time workers leaving the work force to preserve their taxpayer-financed subsidies for health insurance.

Colin Ross Kujawa

Colin Ross Kujawa, son of Thomas and Kallie Kujawa of Bozeman was born at 2:03 p.m, Feb. 12  at Bozeman Deaconess Hospital.  Colin weighed 7-pounds, 15 -ounces and was 21-inches long.

Nattalie marks 1st

Nattalie Malyssa Goldston, daughter of Brittanie Vanmeter and Cody Goldston of Libby, celebrated her first birthday on Jan. 25.

Kylie celebrates 1st

Kylie Schroeder, daughter of Benjamin and Kary Schroeder, celebrated her first birthday Jan. 3.

Despite flooding, area creeks holding

Despite the double onslaught of non-stop melting snow and nearly constant drizzle, creeks in Lincoln County are handling the water, said an Emergency Management Agency official.

Glenn Aarstad, 78, of Libby

Glenn Aarstad, 78, passed from this life March 6, 2014, surrounded by those who loved him.  

Samuel Wallace, 79, of Troy

Samuel H. Wallace, 79, of Troy died Monday, March 3, 2014, at North Valley Hospital in Whitefish.  

Charles Norman, 89, of Troy

Charles (Chuck) Ray Norman, 89, of Troy passed away March 3, 2014, at Mountain View Manor in Eureka.  

Hometown Variety to cease operation

Hometown Variety, the store that had something for everyone, is closing its doors.

Education Way Flooding

Recent flooding has caused increased levels of turbidity, which necessitated the boil order. In this photo, floodwaters crossed Education Way.

One Year Old Schroeder

Kylie Schroeder Dad - Benjamin Schroeder Mom - Kary Schroeder Maternal Grandfather - Cliff Robertson Maternal Grandmother - Stephanie Robertson Paternal Grandfather - Frank (Butch) Schroeder, Step-Grandma Tammy Schroeder (of Astoria, OR) Paternal Grandmother - Charlene DeShazer (Libby) Maternal Great Grandfather - Steve Gary (Libby) Maternal Great Grandmother - Nancy Gary (Libby) Maternal Great Grandmother - Myrtle Robertson (Libby)

One Year Old Goldston

Nattalie Malyssa Goldston

Old Photo 3-11-14

BPA Students Gather LibbyÕs Business Professionals of America, back left: Adviser Rik Rewerts, Ryan Andreessen, Jacob Bramante, Dave Smith, Jim Guinard, adviser Terry Winkler. Front left: Rocky Journey, Robyn Edgar, Mike Day, Lisa Phillips and Mycale Noble. Photo from the March 11, 1994, files of The Western News.

Little Guy Thompson

Battle of the six-year-olds with Teague Thompson, right (with his dad Dean Thompson looking on) vs. Rebel Crump at Peewee 45.

Little Guy Powell Two

Connor Powell, right, gets a last minute tip from Coach Joshua Chapel Saturday during the Kootenai Klassic Little Guy Wrestling Tournament.

Little Guy Powell

Troy's Connor Powell vs. Noah Kelley of Whitefish at Peewee 55. Connor was 3 for 5 on the day, not bad for a little guy.

Court Germany

Vice Principal Jim Germany testifies.

A competitive friendship on the pitch

Libby High sophomores Isaiah Sickler and Johnny Davidson are two members of the school soccer team’s rising young core. Precocious leaders on and off the field, the duo share a lifelong, competitive relationship that landed both young men spots on the local club team, the Kootenai Rapids, and, most recently, the Montana Youth Soccer Olympic Development Program.

Olsen resolution causes confusion

Libby City Councilman Allen Olsen is crying foul after the passage of a recent council resolution supporting the declaratory action filed by City Attorney Jim Reinstma to determine Olsen’s residency.

Groups allege illegal moves by Zinke

HELENA — Two Washington, D.C.-based advocacy groups filed a complaint with the Federal Election Commission on Tuesday accusing a U.S. House candidate in Montana of illegally coordinating with the political action committee he created.

Flathead tribes to pay $18.3 million for Kerr Dam

POLSON — The Salish and Kootenai tribes would have to pay nearly $18.3 million to acquire a northwestern Montana hydroelectric dam from PPL Montana, an arbitration panel has determined.

Area Briefs

Rebo agrees to deal

Naomi Rebo, the Libby Area Chamber of Commerce executive director who recently resigned her position amid allegations of inappropriate use of a chamber debit card, has paid restitution, and she and the governing board have parted ways permanently.

Two patrolmen join Troy staff

Local man, California officer bring Troy police back to full complement

Two new police officers are patrolling Troy.

Dispatch explanation hits the road

County commissioners are working to place a measure on either the June or November ballots to pose what has become a polarizing question: should Troy Area Dispatch stay open?

Acting supervisor hears Montanore concerns

Interim Kootenai National Forest Supervisor Pam Gardner was advised of the pending projects before she assumed the temporary position on Feb. 11. During the Lincoln County Commission meeting Wednesday, she heard first-hand residents’ weariness of the long permitting process for the Montanore Mine Project.

Irish Fair kicks off Saturday with craft fair

The little bit of Irish in everyone will come out Saturday during the 19th Annual Libby Irish Fair at the Memorial Center.

Police Blotter

'Freebies' have cost our elections, treasury dearly

Letter to the Editor,

Libby Middle-High School staff does its best to minimize campus interaction

Pregnancy Care Center continues to aid young mothers

This past year has been very exciting for the Pregnancy Care Center.

Grateful for our search-and-rescue volunteers

Anytime is a good time to say “thank you.”  But there are some times when those two words are meant in a very special way.  

Firefighters to climb steps for benefit

Scott Beagle’s thighs have never been so sore. In the last four months, Beagle and his friend, Ryan Andreessen, have grown to appreciate just how difficult of a challenge it is to climb 69 stories of stairs, as quickly as possible, while carrying 50 pounds of gear.

Vernon Thomen, 79, of Libby

Vernon Thomen, 79, a resident of Libby, but a Whitefish native, passed away in a car accident. Vernon was born in Whitefish to Cathern Larter Holien and Calvin Thomen, on March 19, 1937.

Charles Norman, 89, of Troy

Charles Norman, 89, of Troy passed away March 3, 2014, at Mountain View Manor in Eureka.  

Marie A. Ackley, 95, formerly of Libby

Marie Andera Ackley died Feb. 20, 2014, in Pierre, S.D.

Troy PD Roy

Henry Roy

Troy PD Pape

Chris Pape

Soccer Sickler

Isaiah Sickler vs. Polson 9-19-13

Kerr Dam

FILE - This June 8, 2005 file photo shows Terry McAllister, of Bigfork, Mont., checking out the Kerr Dam, near Polson, Mont. The Salish and Kootenai Tribes would have to pay nearly $18.3 million to acquire the northwestern Montana hydroelectric dam from PPL Montana, an arbitration panel has determined. Energy Keepers Inc., a tribally-owned corporation, said Wednesday, March 5, 2014 the tribes will notify the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission of their intent to acquire the Kerr Project on the Flathead River southwest of Polson in September 2015. (AP Photo/Daily Inter Lake, Chris Jordan, File)

Dome Mountain

Dome Mountain

Firemen Andreessen and Beagle

Ryan Andreessen, left, and Scott Beagle.

Revett Mixers

Austin Wilson

Old Photo 3-4-14

Crooning Swiners Doug Porter and Barry Dexter give a run on the karaoke machine at the Swine Ball on Saturday. The tacky event was a fundraiser for David Thompson Search and Rescue. Craig Davidson photo from the March 2, 1994, files of The Western News.

NRA Refsland

Jordan Refsland displays the Henry Golden Boy .22 magnum rifle which garnered $925 during the live auction Friday night at the Friends of the NRA dinner.

NRA Orr

Joe Crismore, right, reads off the ticket number to Brayson Orr, 5, winner of the Keystone Cricket .22 rimfire rifle Friday night during the Friends of the NRA dinner at Libby's Memorial Center.

NRA Munro

Mike Munro deposits tickets for a chance to win a Mossberg 12 ga. Friday night during the Friends of the NRA dinner at the Memorial Center.

Hoops Germany

Dayln Germany opening tip vs. Columbia Falls 2-1-14

Hoops Johnson

Collin Johnson scores a lay-up in first quarter vs. Whitefish 12-21-13.

Spell Bee

Troy sixth-grader Moxley Roesler-Begalka keeps cool in an early round of the Feb. 19 Lincoln County Spelling Bee hosted by Eureka this year, going on to win by correctly spelling "complacency" to edge out runner-up Kaitlyn Downey, also of Troy.

Jeresek Slab Shear

Jon Jeresek

Bridges Home

© 2013 Marie-Dominique Verdier www.MDVphoto.com

Dispatch Two

Gene Rogers fires up the generator.

Bighorn Sheep

Wildlife biologists perform health tests on a bighorn ram Wednesday morning at Big Arm State Park. The sheep are not tranquilized but blindfold to help keep them calm during the tests. Feb. 26, 2014 in Big Arm, Montana. (© Patrick Cote/Daily Inter Lake)

Dispatch Three

Katie Davis, left, and Gene Rogers.

Dispatch One

Troy Dispatch's Katie Davis

Dispatch Four

Gene Rogers

Libby girls end year with consolation loss

Libby’s Lady Loggers went out fighting Sunday when they closed their basketball season with a 35-32 loss in the Northwestern A Consolation Game.

Loggers close hoops season

The Libby Loggers closed their season on the hardwood Sunday when they lost to Frenchtown, 73-40. All-State guard Jared Winslow characteristically led all scorers in his final game, dropping 20 points, including a trio of three-pointers.

Area Briefs

150 attend dispatch forum

Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe discussed the feasibility of shifting emergency response duties from Troy Area Dispatch to his department’s dispatch service Thursday night in a packed Troy Senior Citizens Center.

Scatterguns Trap & Skeet

U.S. Forest Service retirees oppose Idaho land exchange

COEUR D’ALENE, Idaho — A group of about two dozen retired U.S. Forest Service employees has sent a letter to the U.S. Senate and Natural Resources Committee decrying a proposed northern Idaho land exchange.

End of Windows XP means complications for many

As you are probably aware of by now, on April 8, Microsoft will no longer support Windows XP, meaning the issuance of updates and fixes for the operating system will be discontinued.

Heritage Act: Moves our legacy forward

You’d be hard-pressed to find a healthier, more ecologically sound example of our conservation legacy than the Rocky Mountain Front— a rugged 200-mile overthrust wall of steep, reef-like mountains rising from the Great Plains alongside the communities of Augusta, Choteau, Dupuyer, Pendroy and Browning. Elk, bighorns, pronghorn, badgers, wolverines, lynx, mountain lions, wolves and an abundance and diversity of other wildlife thrive on this land.

Revett now a U.S. company, alters name to Revett Mining

Revett is now an American company, and with that jurisdictional change comes a new name, Revett Mining Co.

Avalanche danger high after snowfall

Benchmark events combine for high season

Jon Jeresek knows all too well the beauty of the backcountry can become dangerous in an instant.

LiV Golf Car company moves ahead

Libby company may soon hire

To look around the assembly area of LiV Golf Cars, first noticeable is the 26 chassis of mostly assembled golf cars. Then, it’s the absence of workers.

Colton Ivins

Colton Ivins, son of Shannon Kack of Libby, was born 4:29 a.m. Feb. 11, 2014.

Nattalie Goldston celebrates first birthday

Nattalie Malyssa Goldston, daughter of Brittanie Vanmeter and Cody Goldston of Libby, celebrated her first birthday on Jan. 25.

Brielle Holzer

Brielle Lyn Holzer, daughter of Brandon and Tanya Holzer of Libby, was born 12:20 a.m. Jan. 11, 2014.

Anita Bartz, 65, of Troy

Anita Elizabeth Violet Bartz, 65, of Troy passed away March 2, 2014, at the Hospice House in Hayden, Idaho.  

Bryan W. Harlow, 49, of Libby

Bryan William Harlow, 49, of Libby went to ride the highest peaks in heaven on Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014.

Mark Domino, 44, formerly of Libby

Mark Allen Domino, 44, of Spokane died with his family by his side on Feb. 11, 2014, at Newman Lake, Wash.

Patsey Helburg, 88, formerly of Libby

Patsey Ruth Helburg passed away Jan. 30, 2014, in Lake Havasu City, Ariz., after a long illness.

Carolyn Maki, 69, of Libby

Carolyn Sue (Anderson) Maki passed away Thursday, Feb. 27, 2014, at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby.