Friday, May 30
Sample Primary Election ballots
No Democratic sample primary election ballot appeared in the May 30 edition of The Western News. Both the Democratic and Republican ballots appear on our website and Facebook page. We regret the error.
1,700 veterans left off VA hospital wait list
PHOENIX — Navy veteran Ken Senft turned to the Department of Veterans Affairs for medical care in 2011 after his private insurance grew too costly. It could have been a fatal mistake, he now says.
Gragert, a former Logger, rolls on
There was no phone call from any of the 32 NFL teams during the league’s annual draft earlier this month or any contact afterwards, for that matter, regarding any sort of free-agent deal.
Area Briefs
Obama: Youth concussions a mystery
WASHINGTON — President Barack Obama called Thursday for more robust research into youth concussions, saying there remains deep uncertainty over both the scope of the troubling issue and the long-term impacts on young people.
Bean named Libby basketball coach
Libby School Board members voted to hire former freshman coach, Josh Bean, as the new head coach for the high school boys’ basketball team.
Jimmy Mee one step away from U.S. Open
Jimmy Mee is one step closer to qualifying for the U.S. Open, one of golf’s four premier events.
Veterans discuss new monument
Numerous veterans attended the Lincoln County veterans memorial monument dedication on Memorial Day evening. The Western News asked some of the veterans to describe the day’s significance. Here are their words.
New Libby gunsmith opens shop
When Milton Wetherill was 12 years old, he took apart his Daisy BB gun and nearly gave his mother a heart attack.
Primary election day is Tuesday
Primary election day is Tuesday, June 3 in Lincoln County, and there are multiple ways people can vote.
Police blotter
Thief faces possible 40-year sentence
A Libby man has pleaded guilty to a trio of charges after committing several burglaries and fleeing from police.
Vote 'yes' on Troy Dispatch issue
Letter to the Editor,
Veterans Memorial dedication was a fitting event
Letter to the Editor,
The joy of walking Montana's wilderness
July in northwest Montana is a time for exploration. Cool mornings and hot afternoons mirror the stark contrast in topography one can find by simply hiking for a few hours into the Cabinet Mountain Wilderness Area. The slow meanders of the Bull River are quickly replaced with the waterfalls and pools of Rock Creek.
Creel survey will inform fish biologists
Beginning June 1, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will be performing a creel survey on the Kootenai River from Libby Dam downstream to the Osprey Landing (Rereg) boat ramp.
Troy School District receives $10,500 in grants
Troy School District recently received three grants. The district was awarded a $500 grant from Wal-Mart and a pair of $5,000 grants from the Lowe’s Toolbox for Education program.
Joan Young, 84, of Billings
Joan Mossett Young, 84, of Billings, died Friday, May 16, 2014, at Valley Health Care in Billings. Joan was born Feb. 21, 1930, in Selfridge, N.D., the daughter of John and Barbara Kraft Mossett.
Alice Ware-Carpenter, 86, of Libby
Alice Hannah Ware-Carpenter went to dance with the angels May 23, 2014, after a fierce battle with dementia. She passed peacefully at home, secure in her family’s love and her incredible faith.
Obit Young
Joan Young
Obit Carpenter
Alice H. Carpenter
Golf Mee
Jimmy Mee tees off on No. 6, a 386-yard Par 4 during the Ben Graham Golf Tournament May 17.
Formula Fabrication
Frank and Karee Sweedman of Formula Fabrication
Wednesday, May 28
Stevenson leads way for Logger track
A trio of Libby Lady Loggers qualified for the state track tournament Friday and Saturday during the Northwestern A Divisionals in Frenchtown.
Logger baseball falls in extras
A 10th-inning run scored on a double steal from first and third base proved too much for the Libby Loggers as they lost 7-6 to the Kootenai Valley Rangers on Friday night at Lee Gehring Field.
Libby softball advances to state tournament
With a trip to the state tournament already secured, the Libby Lady Loggers (4-4, 16-5) softball team struggled to get going at home, losing 7-5 to Polson on Friday.
Troy Trojans send five athletes to state tournament
Five Troy Trojans qualified for the state track and field tournament during the Western B Divisional at Missoula County Stadium.
Smoking vapor at Pop's Shop
New business hopes to see cigarettes go up in flames
A smell of candy lingered after a vapor mist emerged from the owner’s mouth and into his nostrils as he French inhaled.
Schnackenberg and Wood take sixth at state
While driving the 600 miles to Billings to compete in the Class A state tennis championship, Libby High School’s Cody Wood and Jason Schnackenberg told their coach, Kyle Hannah, that they had already achieved their goals for the season. Considering they were playing with house money, a sixth-place finish is not too bad.
Lundins take fourth at state
Troy Lady Trojans Katie and Kellie Lundin ended their heralded prep athletic careers Saturday when they claimed fourth in the Class B state tennis tournament.
Area Briefs
Veterans memorial dedicated
Nobody would have believed, if told ahead of time, that the rain clouds would split and the sun would shine when Terry Andreessen took the stage and two rainbows would appear in the grey-blue sky just as the ceremony ended.
Tuesday, May 27
Schweitzer behind play for Montanore Mine
Former Montana governor Brian Schweitzer is one of the primary investors behind a private company that owns mineral rights situated between Mines Management and an ore body worth an estimated $8 billion.
Monday, May 26
Track Urvater
Marlena Urvater in the triple jump.
Track Scott
Pate Scott competing in the long jump, divisionals track at Missoula May 23, 2014
Track Hickman
Gabe Hickman competing in the long jump, divisionals track at Missoula May 23, 2014
Tennis Metz
Bruce Metz teamed with Luke Haggerty vs. Clark Fork May 6, 2014
Softball Wedel
With two out, Junior Mahalah Wedel's standup double in the bottom of the seventh scores two.
Softball Gallagher D
Devon Gallagher cheers her team on from third base after her RBI scoring the fifth and final run in the bottom of the seventh with two out vs. Polson.
Softball Jube
Post game jube after defeating Columbia Falls assuring a state playoff berth with Hannah England, left, Dayln Germany, Devon Gallagher, Rachel Rebo and Kelsey Klin.
Softball Gallagher
Devon Gallagher base hit bottom of the fourth sends Mahalah Wedel to second vs. Polson
Softball Ennenga
First baseman Abby Ennenga third out top of the seventh on a throw from pitcher Staci Regh vs. Polson.
Memorial Smith
Raleigh Smith, Dec. 7, 1983 Ñ Dec. 23, 2004.
Old Photo 5-27-14
Thank You Stimson Students in Diane Neils JohnsonÕs fifth grade class at Plummer elementary thanked Stimson Lumber Company for donating the original J. Neils fire engine to the Heritage Museum The fire truck was slated for auction, Stimson donated the truck after the class began plans to buy it. Photo from the May 27, 1994, files of The Western News.
Memorial Rainbow
A pleasant and timely double rainbow appeared Monday evening following the dedication of the veterans memorial at Riverfront Park.
Memorial Priest
Honoring veterans and the fallen this Memorial Day 2014 with Bud Priest, left, Bob Basham and Robert Herman, members of John E. Freeman Post 5514 of the VFW.
Memorial Pitcher
Larry Pitcher saluting during dedication of Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Park Monday evening.
Memorial Milnor
Honoring veterans and the fallen this Memorial Day 2014. Members of John E. Freeman Post 5514 of VFW and the Ladies Auxiliary at Milnor Lake Cemetery Monday.
Memorial House
Dean W. House, State Sr. Vice Commander, Montana Veterans of Foreign Wars, speaks Monday evening during the dedication of the Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Park.
Memorial Gregory
Maria Gregory had the honor of raising the flag Monday during Memorial Day cereonies at Milnor Lake Cemetery.
Memorial Cole
Bert Cole, life member of John E. Freeman Post 5514 of the VFW.
Memorial Burns
Former Montana Senator Conrad Burns, left, Larry Pitcher and Dean W. House, State Sr. Vice Commander, Montana Veterans of Foreign Wars, share a lighter moment prior to dedicating the Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Park Monday.
Memorial Andreessen T
Terry Andreessen speaking during the dedication of the Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Park Monday evening.
Memorial Andreessen
Terry Andreessen speaking during the dedication of the Veterans Memorial at Riverfront Park Monday evening.
Baseball Willis
Will Reichel left, and Matt Willis vs. Eureka 5-23-14
Baseball Reichel
Will Reichel pitching vs. Eureka. 10 inning game, 7-6 Rangers.
Friday, May 23
Judge affirms county's fire district decision
A judge has ruled in favor of Lincoln County in a lawsuit challenging the county’s assertion that a petition to form the Cabinet View Fire District failed to gather enough signatures.
Mother prompted kidnapped woman to flee
SANTA ANA, Calif. —
House passes curbs on NSA phone surveillance
WASHINGTON — In an overwhelming vote, the House moved the U.S. closer to ending the National Security Agency’s bulk collection of Americans’ phone records Thursday, the most significant demonstration to date of leaker Edward Snowden’s impact on the debate over privacy versus security.
College charity cyclists pass through Libby
A group of recent college graduates are biking coast-to-coast to raise money for a needy African nation.
Police Blotter
Be careful with 'rainy day funds'
Letter to the Editor,
In defense of a trapper's rights
Letter to the Editor,
Acknowledging an altruistic act
Letter to the Editor,
'City of Libby' is nothing more than an oxymoron
Letter to the Editor,
The battle for the Republican party's soul
Letter to the Editor,
Summer sun can pose a serious threat to pets
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 can cause severe sunburns or skin cancer in humans, these problems may also be seen in animals.
County makes mark with bark park
With only a few fence posts in the ground, Libby Commissioner Tony Berget said a new dog park will be completed this fall.
Noah Davis
Noah Davis, son of Samantha Davis of Libby, was born 11:44 a.m. May 16, 2014.
Rupnick-Kinden
Jeanni Marie Kinden and David Ryan Rupnick were married January 16, 2014, in Playa del Carmen, Mexico. The ceremony was performed by Rev. Maria Tripaldi Johnson.
Sherry Adams, 67, of Libby
Sherry Marie (Gamache) Adams, 67, went to be with her Savior on May 18, 2014 after a valiant fight with lung disease from exposure to asbestos. She passed away peacefully in her home and was surrounded by love, faith and family.
State seeks water-rights lawsuit
Montana’s attorney general said Thursday he is asking the U.S. District Court in Missoula for permission to intervene in a water-rights lawsuit filed by the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Burns to speak at dedication
Conrad Burns, a former U.S. Senator and Marine, will be the keynote speaker at the formal dedication of the Lincoln County Veterans Monument 6 p.m. Monday at Riverfront Park.
Longtime wrestling spectator given moment of recognition
Longtime Libby wrestling supporter Harvey Fredrickson, 82, travelled May 17 to Pocatello, Idaho, as an honored guest of a recent National Wrestling Hall of Fame inductee.
Area Briefs
Train derailment brings laughs
Amtrak riders take in small town USA
A train derailment in Crossport, Idaho, left 235 Amtrak passengers stranded in Libby on Thursday morning.
Woodpecker
Male hairy woodpecker busy building a cavity nest in a dead pine tree in the Pipe Creek area.
Wedding Kinden
Jeanni Marie Kinden and David Ryan Rupnick
Train Zimmerman
Pam Zimmerman of Achievements.
Train Shea
Dee Shea, employee at Achievements who served coffee, doughnuts and cookies to the Amtrak passengers who were stranded due to a BNSF train derailment Thursday morning.
Train Schantz
Best buds: Kathy Schantz, left, and Charles Pinner.
Train Lopez
Nico Lopez, left, and Matt Mulcare.
Train Lundstrom
Micah Lundstrom, left, and Terrance Phillips.
Train Latin
Amtrak's Joann Latin explaining to stranded passengers their options of traveling by bus or staying with the train.
Obit Adams
Sherry Marie Gamache Adams
Birth Davis
Noah Davis
Bark Park
Proposed "bark park" on the north end of J. Neils Park near Northwood.
Tuesday, May 20
Macker-Chirino big winner at Ben Graham
The following are the results of the 2014 Ben Graham Memorial Golf Tournament, which was held Saturday at Cabinet View Golf Club.
Troy drops pair to Ronan
The Lady Trojans softball team traveled to Ronan (14-4, 15-5) for a Saturday doubleheader to wrap up the regular season.
Loggers split against Bitterroot
The Libby Logger Legion baseball team ended a Sunday doubleheader in dramatic fashion, rallying from three runs down to earn an 11-10 walkoff victory.
Lady Loggers win four after tough road loss
The Lady Loggers softball team dominated its four games at the Butte Invitational on Friday and Saturday.
Lundin twins smash way to state
Troy Lady Trojans Katie and Kellie Lundin continued a dominant tennis season Saturday when they went undefeated at the Western B-C girls divisional tournament.
Trojans soar to track divisional
It was just another day at the outdoor office for the Troy Trojans track and field team Saturday at the District 7-B meet.
Schnackenberg, Wood qualify for state tennis
Libby High School’s top doubles duo, senior Jason Schnackenberg and freshman Cody Wood, qualified for the state tennis tournament Friday when they finished second at the divisional tournament in Kalispell.
Frank Fahland interview
Lincoln County resident Frank Fahland said he was planning to run for Lincoln County Justice of the Peace, but second thoughts concerning professional commitments as a pharmacist in Idaho led him to request that his name be removed from ballots.
Only two remain for Justice of the Peace
The following questions and answers with the candidates for Justice of the Peace are the third in a series of interviews that
Jay Sheffield interview
Incumbent Jay Sheffield is running for re-election for the consolidated Lincoln County Justice of the Peace position.
Stormy Langston interview
Incumbent Stormy Langston is running for re-election for the consolidated Lincoln County Justice of the Peace position.
Igniters spark thrill in Noxon
Letter to the Editor,
Recognizing a community service
Letter to the Editor,
The hazard of putting jobs ahead of all else
Letter to the Editor,
Boko Haram and the imperative of self-defense
In Nigeria, radical Islamic group Boko Haram has carried out a series of horrific attacks, culminating in the recent abduction of 234 girls from a boarding school in the city of Chibok. The group allegedly intends to sell the girls into slavery. The Nigerian government pledges to free them, but thus far reports on the ground indicate little has been done while the government awaits foreign assistance.
Baby geese on the Kootenai River
A mother and father goose lead four babies out into the Kootenai River near River Road Trail on May 4. Shortly after the photo was taken, the father chased off an encroaching goose.
Libby man opens new bike shop
Bryce Huck always had a passion for bikes.
Adam Barnes
Adam William Barnes, son of Jim and Evelyn Barnes of Libby, was born at 4:46 p.m., April 10, 2014 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.
Ellie Lewis
Ellie Lewis, daughter of Brad and Stephanie Lewis of Libby, was born at 8:10 a.m., May 9, 2014 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.
Teighler Canavan
Teighler Basil Canavan, son of Austin Canavan and Janet Horsley of Libby, was born at 11:53 a.m. April 9, 2014 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center.
Martin Riedlinger, 92, of Troy
Martin S. Riedlinger, 92, of Troy passed away May 14, 2014, at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby.
Peterson sentence: 30 years, no parole
Joshua Peterson, 36, will serve 30 years in prison without the chance at parole after his attack on his wife with a baseball bat nearly claimed her life.
Early deadline for advertising
There is an early deadline for advertising in
Tennis McBride
Sarah McBride competes at divisionals in Whitefish May 15
Tennis Lundin Twins
Troy's No. 1 doubles team of Kellie Lundin left and her twin sister Katie vs. Mission April 12.
Tennis Divisionals
Jason Schnackenberg, left, and Cody Wood, divisionals tennis at Whitefish.
Peterson Josh
Josh Peterson pauses from reading his letter of apology to glance towards his wife Tracee Jo prior to sentencing Monday.
Peterson Hanson
Ed Hanson awaiting sentencing of his son-in-law Josh Peterson for the beating of Hanson's daughter Tracee Jo Peterson Monday in District Court.
Peterson Hailey
Hailey Peterson, left, with her mom's (Tracee) head on her shoulder during Josh Peterson sentencing, Monday morning.
Old Photo 5-20-14
The Lincoln County Sheriff's staff moved into new quarters in the courthouse addition last week. The view looks into the reception room of the new Sheriff's office and shows receptionist/clerk Phyllis Bonney at the shortwave radio set. From the June 25, 1964, files of The Western News.
Obit Riedlinger
Martin Riedlinger
Golf Walter Mason
Walter Mason tees off on No. 2, a 375-yard par 4.
Golf Steve
Steve Graham approaching No. 1, a 513-yard par 5.
Golf Mason
The Ben Graham Memorial Golf Tournament, good friends, good times. With Doug Crum left, and Walter Mason.
Golf Macker-Chirino
Wendy Macker-Chirino won a truck hitting a hole in one at the Ben Graham. She hit the shot on hole 7, a 172-yard par 3. Her ball kissed another ball and into the hole. She won a 2014 F-150 from Timberline.
Golf Lacklen
Bobbie Lacklen sinks it on No. 7 a par 3. Bobbie does it in two during the Ben Graham Memorial Golf Tournament Saturday.
Golf Graham Steve
Steve Graham studies the green on No. 2, a 375-yard par 4.
Golf Johnston
Ryggs Johnston tees off on No. 6, a par 4, Saturday during the Ben Graham Memorial Golf Tournament.
Golf Graham
John Graham tees off on No. 3, a 173-yard par 3 Saturday.
Geese
Mom, dad and four little fuzz balls.
Candidate Sheffield
Jay Sheffield
Candidate Langston
Stormy Langston
Birth Lewis
Ellie Lewis
Birth Canavan
Teighler Basil Canavan
Birth Barnes
Adam William Barnes
Bikes Bad Medicine
Bryce Huck of Bad Medicine Bike Shop, 1000 State Highway 37
Friday, May 16
Area seniors awarded scholarships
Seniors from Troy High School and Libby High School were recently awarded scholarships as they make their ways out into the world.
Area Briefs
Area teams gear up for playoffs
As the school year winds down, area sports teams are preparing for the playoff push.
Earthquakes cause minor shakes in Happy's Inn area
A 3.4-magnitude earthquake shook the Crystal Lake area Tuesday night. About a dozen weaker aftershocks were recorded Wednesday morning.
Montanore wins in federal court
Montana Supreme Court sends state lawsuit back to Wheelis
As a pair of legal cases pitting Mines Management against a group of Idaho claimholders continues down a path of appeals, some interesting scenarios are potentially at play.
Congressional candidate Zinke says mines are top priority
Former SEAL says he's 'American first'
A third-generation Montanan from Whitefish, U.S. Congressional candidate Ryan Zinke is a Navy SEAL veteran of 23 years. He holds two master’s degrees: one in finance and another in global leadership
Edmunds will fight for Montanans
Letter to the Editor,
Rosendale, not Zinke, espouses real conservative values
Letter to the Editor,
Abolishing the appeal system would bring justice
Letter to the Editor,
Despite what you have heard, we do have a working sheriff
Letter to the Editor,
Time to hit the brakes on the coal train
There’s trouble brewing in Montana. People who don’t live here and who don’t really care what happens to our state are trying to take advantage of us. If we don’t speak up now, we’ll be paying the price for decades to come.
Family catches lion intruder
Virnie Mack let his chickens out at 10 a.m. Monday and continued with his day. When he saw the chickens frantically run by the side of the house an hour later, he instinctively grabbed his gun and went to check for the mountain lion that walked into his home 11 days ago.
Sauer-Glenn
Shawn and Paula Glenn of Riverton, Utah, announce the engagement of their daughter Heather Glenn to Nicholas Sauer, son of Scott and Allison Sauer also of Riverton, Utah.
George McLean, 79, formerly of Libby
George Arthur McLean went to eternal rest on May 9, 2014 at 1:15 p.m. surrounded by his wife and children after a yearlong battle with cancer.
Libby school board leases space
Libby School Board members approved Monday a lease agreement between Libby Food Pantry and Libby School District.
Langston will not appeal ruling
After a few days of contemplation, Lincoln County Justice of the Peace Stormy Langston said she does not plan to appeal U.S. District Judge James Wheelis’ ruling that county commissioners acted appropriately when consolidating justice of the peace positions and locations.
Ryan Zinke Mug
Ryan Zinke for U.S. Congress.
Ryan Zinke
Ryan Zinke for U.S. Congress
Tennis Brown
Ally Brown vs. Bigfork's Kalia Wicklund at No. 1 singles.
Tanner Mug
Todd Tanner
Tanner Column Sig
Todd Tanner
Lion Mack
LaDonna Mack and the chicken-loving mountain lion.
Obit McLean
George Arthur McLean
Grad Pledge
Seventh-graders at Libby Middle School took a pledge on May 13 to graduate from high school in the year 2019. After a breakfast with parents and faculty, the students gathered near the track to form a 19, signifying the year in which they plan to graduate.
Wednesday, May 14
Earthquake shakes Happy's Inn area
Four earthquakes hit Lincoln County in the last 24 hours.
Tuesday, May 13
Police Blotter
Trojan tennis bounces toward state tourney
It was a standout weekend for Troy tennis.
Troy track second at Seeley-Swan
At Missoula, the Troy Trojans nearly claimed the top team spot among 19 squads.
Libby looks to rebound after tough stretch
The Libby Lady Loggers softball team learned a few tough lessons recently against some of the state’s best competition.
Garrison roars for Lady Trojan softball
The Lady Trojans dropped both sides of a home doubelheader Saturday to Florence (16-0, 19-1), but junior Brenna Garrison proved she can hang with the best in Western B-C softball.
Loggers open with Wood Bat Tournament
The Loggers kicked off their season Friday with the Wood Bat Classic tournament at Lee Gehring Field. It was a learning experience for the team, who ended the tournament with one win and two losses.
Mark Peck Interview
Challenger Mark Peck is running for Lincoln County Commissioner.
Russ Bache Interview
Challenger Russ Bache is running for Lincoln County Commissioner.
Tony Berget Interview
Lincoln County Commissioner Tony Berget is seeking re-election for a second term.
Three run for county commish
The following questions and answers with the candidates for county commissioner are the second in a series of interviews that
Thoeny-Robins
Devon Daniel Thoeny, son of Mike and Michele Thoeny, is engaged to Jessica Dawn Robins, daughter of Todd and Tammy Robins. Devon works for Kootenai Landscaping and Jessica is taking college classes to become an elementary teacher. The couple plans to be wed in May.
Darrell Kaufman, 72, of Libby
Darrell G. “Pop” Kaufman passed away March 13, 2014, at the Mountain View Manor in Eureka.
Rodger Gentry, 63, of Troy
Rodger Steven Gentry died at his home in Troy April 22, 2014.
Tennis Metz
Bruce Metz teamed with Luke Haggerty vs. Clark Fork's Javier Rebollo and Jake Aguirre at No. 1 doubles May 6.
Tennis Peck
Gabe Peck teamed with Ryan Nagle vs. Polson's Cadis Chowning and Tim Russell in No. 2 doubles action Saturday.
Tennis Haggerty
Luke Haggerty teamed with Bruce Metz vs. Javier Rebollo and Jake Aguirre at No. 1 doubles vs. Clark Fork.
STOKR Start
STOKR start 2014.
Tennis Brant
Jason Brant vs. Polson's Brady Hislop in No. 1 singles action Saturday.
STOKR Rice
Susie Rice, STOKR coordinator, introducing Louis Boitano to the crowd, Boitano has been riding STOKR all 20 years of its existence.
STOKR Boitano
Louis Boitano of Fife, Washington riding in his 20th STOKR
STOKR Olsen
Glen and Dawn Olsen from Kalispell, all bundled up and 98 miles to go.
Softball Garrison
Brenna Garrison, center, is surrounded by her teammates for smacking a home run over the left field fence Saturday vs. Florence.
Old Photo 5-13-14
Palm Sunday Confirmation Pastor Sheridan Erickson conducted confirmation ceremonies for 17 young members of Christ Lutheran Church on Palm Sunday April 7. They are (front row, from left) Rodney Rantala, Paula Pival, Tami Sonju, Pam Nitschke, Chari Adkins and Nancy Erickson; (second row, from left) Julie Paullin, Kathy McKean, Kris Kins, Kathy Morey, Marci Alness, Pam Pape and Judi Kaeding, and (third row, from left) Kathy Baeth, Curt Jones, Pastor Erickson, Herb Brown and Cathy Nixon. Carlton Haines photo from the April 18, 1974, files of The Western News.
Obit Kaufman
DARRELL KAUFMAN
Engaged Thoeny Robins
Devon Daniel Thoeny, son of Mike & Michele Thoeny, is engaged to Jessica Dawn Robins, daughter of Todd & Tammy Robins. Devon currently works for Kootenai Landscaping, and Jessica is currently taking college classes to become an elementary teacher. They are planning a May wedding.
Candidate Berget
Lincoln County Commissioner Tony Berget
Candidate Peck
Mark Peck, candidate for county commissioner.
Candidate Bache
Russ Bache, candidate for Lincoln County commissioner.
Baseball Reichel
Will Reichel first pitch of the 2014 season for a strike vs. Missoula Pioneers first game of the Wood Bat Tournament Friday, May 9.
Baseball Huffman
Ryan Huffman caught stealing second vs. Missoula Pioneers during first game of Wood Bat Tournament Friday evening.
Libby natives tear it up at fitness competition
Three Libby residents placed in the 2014 Big Sky Championships in Missoula on May 3.
Baseball Haggerty
Luke Haggerty pitching top of fifth inning vs. Cranbrook Bandits 5-10-14.
Friday, May 9
Records fall at countywide meet
Troy’s boys and Eureka’s girls claimed team victories Tuesday at the Lincoln County track meet. Libby’s Shyla Stevenson and teammate Marlena Urvater each won three events, as did Troy’s Sean Opland.
Lady Loggers cruise past Flathead, 9-4
The Lady Loggers softball team faced a step up in competition, but the result was the same Tuesday when they went on the road and defeated Class AA Kalispell Flathead, 9-4.
Epic comebacks highlight Libby tennis matches
Facing the brink of defeat against the state’s reigning sixth-place doubles team, Libby’s Jason Schnackenberg and Cody Wood fought back.
Montanans prep for Spartan Race
After four miles and 15 obstacles Emily Callaghan was burnt out, covered in mud and exhilarated. She couldn’t wait for another Spartan race.
Complete Libby Logger Legion baseball schedule
Due to a website glitch, the Libby Loggers Legion Baseball 2014 schedule is unable to be printed out from www.libbyloggers.com. The correct schedule for this season is printed in full below.
Police Blotter
Area Briefs
Eat at home for CARD Foundation
Letter to the Editor,
Student: Edmunds only proven conservative for Senate
Letter to the Editor,
Nothing authorizes tax levies greater than those approved
Letter to the Editor,
Fracking debate needs science, not superstition
Researchers in Colorado just came forward with a shocking claim: hydraulic fracturing, or “fracking,” the decades-old method of using a high-velocity mixture of water, sand and chemicals to blast through rock to release oil and gas deposits, causes birth defects.
Robert L. Mullen, 68, of Troy
Robert L. Mullen, 68, passed away peaceful at his home in Troy on May 5, 2014.
Edmund Scheffler, 93, of Troy
Edmund (Ed) Burton Scheffler, 93, of Troy died May 2, 2014, of natural causes in Spokane, Wash. He was born December 9, 1920, in the Bull River Ranger Station near Noxon, to Clyde and Myrtle Gill Scheffler. He grew up in Noxon and graduated from Noxon High School. He worked various jobs including logging, railroad and firefighting until he enlisted in the Navy following the attack on Pearl Harbor. He was sent to serve his country in the Aleutian Islands on the U.S.S. Coghlan. He was very proud of having fought in the battle of the Komandorskis.
New hockey team seeks fresh start
Whitefish will have a new hockey team to cheer for next fall when the Whitefish Wolverines take to the ice at the Stumptown Ice Den.
20th annual STOKR this weekend
The 20th annual Scenic Tour of the Kootenai River, or STOKR, will attract a record 475 bicyclists this weekend.
Mountain lion stuns family inside their home
Morning routine takes wild turn
It was a typical Thursday morning for Virnie and LaDonna Mack as they began to get ready for the day. LaDonna was in the shower and Virnie was still in his pajamas when things suddenly took a turn.
Libby ballet to perform Saturday
Mother's Day show will feature parts of 'Swan Lake'
The Libby ballet will present a Mother’s Day performance Saturday at the Memorial Center. This performance, titled “Purely Classical,” will contain excerpts from “Swan Lake” and ”Giselle & Les Sylphides,” as well as pieces from local talented musicians and vocalists.
Spartan Race
Sally Finneran/Bigfork Eagle Emily Callaghan trains for the Spartan race Friday, April 25 at Pacific Park.
Track Wallace
Trinity Wallace, left, Liz Vanderhoef, Andrea Mack, Sarah Pierce, Jenna Komac, Ida Skjervold. 400-meter relay, county meet in Eureka May 6.
Track Chapel
Mason Chapel competes in the long jump at the county meet in Eureka Tuesday, May 6.
Tennis Haggerty
Luke Haggerty teamed with Bruce Metz vs. Javier Rebollo and Jake Aguirre at No. 1 doubles vs. Clark Fork.
Tennis Metz
Bruce Metz teamed with Luke Haggerty vs. Javier Rebollo and Jake Aguirre at No. 1 doubles vs. Clark Fork.
Tennis Day
Alex Day teamed with CJ Beard vs. James Cope and Jacob Edstrom of Clark Fork at No. 2 doubles.
Tennis Beard
CJ Beard teamed with Alex Day vs. James Cope and Jacob Edstrom of Clark Fork at No. 2 doubles.
Softball Gallagher
Devon Gallagher catching vs. Timberlake April 5.
Obit Scheffler
EDMUND SCHEFFLER
Obit Mullen
ROBERT LEE MULLEN
Clearwater Montana Properties
Wayne Heaton, left, Lisa Gilbertson, Mike Murchie, Jana Murchie, director of the Pregnancy Care Center; Sharon Denton, Molly Montana, Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe, Marvin Schweitzer, Troy Volunteer Fire Dept. and Mike Sanders of the Upper Yaak Service. Heaton Gilbertson Denton and Montana are agents representing Clearwater Montana Properties, Inc.
Cougar
LaDonna Mack and her dog "Honey."
Ballet
Annie Wilkinson, Libby Ballet rehearsal.
Tuesday, May 6
Troy puts up runs, drops four games
The Lady Trojan softball team was swept by Loyola Sacred Heart during a Saturday doubleheader on the road.
Busy weekend for area tennis
Libby Coach Kyle Hannah saw plenty to be excited about during Libby’s home tennis meet Friday.
Lady Loggers earn win before tough stretch
Hannah England’s seven innings of shutout ball kept the Libby Lady Logger softball team rolling Thursday when they defeated Whitefish at home, 7-0.
Scott, fellow Trojans stand out during Whitefish track meet
Among a crowd of more than 800 students, Troy’s track and field athletes stood out Saturday during the Akey, Rosenberg, Murphy Invitational at Whitefish.
Candidates Comish
Mark Peck, left, Tony Berget and Russ Bache.
Roby Bowe Interview
Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe is seeking re-election for a second term.
Duane Rhodes Interview
Challenger Duane Rhodes is running for Lincoln County sheriff.
Candidates for Sheriff
Duane Rhodes, left, Roby Bowe and Bill Clark
Three vie for sheriff seat
The following questions and answers with the candidates for sheriff are the first in a series of interview that
Review shows flaws in Troy Dispatch
Troy Area Dispatch District Chairman Gene Rogers profited $4,471.87 when he sold a generator to the district he oversees.
Candidates talk issues at forum
The Libby Area Chamber of Commerce hosted a candidate forum Thursday at the Little Theatre.
Police seek help identifying man accused of breaking into stores
The Libby Police Department has released two photos of a man they are hoping to identify in connection with the March break-in at Sears and Rocky Mountain Music.
Tennis McBride
Sarah McBride vs. Bigfork's Genovieve Gibson at No. 3 singles.
Tennis Day
Alex Day vs. Bigfork's Gunnar Boose at No. 3 singles.
Tennis Bailey
Kody Bailey vs. Bigfork's Gunnar Boose at No. 2 singles.
Tennis Brown
Ally Brown vs. Bigfork's Kalia Wicklund at No. 1 singles.
Tennis Alspaw
Katie Alspaw vs. Bigfork's Alex Hide at No. 4 singles.
Track Winter
Seventh grader Amber Winter 100-meter dash.
Track Rice
Sixth grader Montana Rice competes in the shot-put.
Track Leighty
Hunter Leighty 200-meter hurdles.
Track LaBelle
Sixth grader Hailey LaBelle 100-meter dash.
Track LaBelle, Logan
Sixth grader Logan LaBelle 100-meter.
Track Hermes
Mazzy Hermes competes at the junior high track meet on Friday.
Track Hickman
Gabe Hickman
Track Gruber
Seventh grader Emma Gruber 100-meter dash.
Track Gier
Sixth grader Sydney Gier 100-meter dash.
Track Coldwell
Eighth grader Allie Coldwell 100-meter.
Torch Run
The Montana Special Olympics Law Enforcement Torch Run passed through Libby Tuesday morning. Officers and local olympians stopped at Les Schwab Tire for a group photo before caring the Flame of Hope accross town. The flame will be carried across the state to the Special Olympics Montana State Summer games in Billings on May14.
Old Photo 5-6-14
Members of the Libby Swim Team, coached by Dirk Miller (standing at left) train each week night at the Libby Racquet and Swim Club and have participated in two meets this spring. Seated from left are Jody Johnson, Bonnie Yahvah, Monica Cannon, Karen Morey, Roxanne Remp, Dean Volkenand, Shayne Nelson, D.C. Orr and Pat Pacheco. In the middle row from left are Cash Parsons, David Volkenand, Rick Jaqueth, Steve Cannon, Alan Davey, Carl Parsons and Charles Nelson. Standing from left are Coach Miller, Robyn Rose, Suzi Davey, Martha Lee, Linda Sverdrup, Beth Engebretson, and Connie Cannon. Not pictured is Mike Pacheco. Photo from the April 11, 1974, files of The Western News.
Obit Hill
Wanda M. Hill
Candidate Clark
Bill Clark
Candidate Rhodes
Duane Rhodes, candidate for sheriff of Lincoln County.
Friday, May 2
Vaccine suggested for horses to protect against West Nile
Montana’s animal health officials are encouraging equine owners to consult with their veterinarians about vaccination for West Nile virus after a spike in the number of cases last year.
Parole denied again for killer
Man buried victims in woods south of Libby
More than five years after his last attempt, Richard Sweet’s parole request again has been denied.
Troy softball drops pair in Eureka
Troy’s Lady Trojans dropped a pair of makeup games at home on Tuesday. The bats did their jobs, combining to score 19 runs during the two games.
Troy Trojans stand out during Top 10 track meet
Three Troy Trojans earned top-six finishes in three events at the Russ Pilcher/Western Montana Top 10 track and field meet Tuesday in Missoula.
Libby tennis makes up rain out
The Libby Loggers seem to have found a top boys doubles pair to stick with for the season. Senior Jason Schnackenburg and freshman Cody Wood teamed to defeat Columbia Fall’s Caleb Baumann and Gavin Thelen on Monday. The two schools met after Saturday’s Libby Invitational was rained out.
Logger baseball opens season next week
A kid named “Sticks” picked short hops at first base Wednesday at Lee Gehring Memorial Field. Standing below a finally warm sun, lanky Libby High freshman Erik Lauer remembered what it felt like to sweat while preparing for the Libby Loggers’ first Legion baseball game.
It's back: Crawdad event returns to Yaak
After years as nothing more than a memory, the Dirty Shame Saloon’s Crawdad Festival will return this summer to the Yaak.
Dedication to community banking
Glacier Bank's manager Johanson passes leadership to Mercer
Glacier Bank’s outgoing vice president John Johanson is retiring from a 37-year career in the banking industry and looking forward to more days spent outdoors. While George Mercer is comparatively young in his career and looking to take over as the new vice president and manager for the Libby branch.
Birds of prey talk Saturday at dam
Live birds of prey will be at the Libby Dam Visitor Center on Saturday, May 3 for a special presentation by wildlife rehabilitator Janie Fink.
Steven H. Whittington, 61, of Libby
Steven H. Whittington, 61, of Libby died Wednesday, April 30, 2014 at his home in Libby from natural causes.
Kent A. Whitehouse, 67, of Libby
Kent A. Whitehouse, 67, of Libby died Monday, April 28, 2014 at his home in Libby from natural causes.
May library events
The Lincoln County Public Library in Libby will be presenting a full calendar of programs during the month of May. All events are free and open to the public.
Disappointed in FWP 5-year plan for game
I recently went to a Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks meeting in Libby out at the Libby Rod and Gun Club’s facility. I can tell you, I and many others were greatly disappointed. What I was hoping for was the FWP’s five-year plans for whitetail deer, elk and what their five-year plan was for predators.
CARD holds home dinner fundraiser
The Center for Asbestos Related Disease (CARD) Foundation is doing something a little different this year.
Map, compass skills important in outdoors
“The Sun Shines on a Different Dog’s Butt Everyday.” So far this spring has been lacking in appearances by the yellow orb, but it’s coming. Despite this weather so far, on a rain and snow mixed Saturday 25 mountaineers gathered together. The Glacier Mountaineers sponsored a program entitled “Improving Your Skills with Map and Compass.” The classroom session covered most every aspect of planning a safe hiking route, navigating utilizing a topographical map and compass, and calculating distances and direction. A field exercise followed to practice using a compass. It was a great day and all learned quite a bit while having some fun too!
Man hunts game in Africa
Kelley Brown was attempting to take a nap when a knock at his door followed by a question quickly awakened him – do you want to shoot a leopard?
Area Briefs
Wings Troy
Troy High School students recently concluded their 10th annual Wings fundraising competition. Students this year raised $2,790, raising the grand total raised by Troy students to $37,622. This year, the freshman class raised the most money, thereby earning a field trip day for the entire class. Donna Havens and Kathy Dunham, of Wings, accepted the donation from freshmen Sarah Pierce, Riley Burk, Jasmine Barnes, Allie Brown and Kylie Carr.
Tennis Wood
Cody Wood, partnered with his cousin Jason Schnackenberg in No. 1 doubles vs. Columbia Falls 4-29-14.
Tennis Hawthorne
Dani Hawthorne and Cloie Boardner congratulate one another after defeating Columbia Falls 6-2, 6-2 in No. 2 doubles action 4-28-14.
Tennis Bailey
Kody Bailey vs. Columbia Falls at No. 3 singles.
Obit Whitehouse
Kent Whitehouse
Obit Whittington
Steven H. Whittington
Obit Weinman
Donald Weinman
Glacier Bank Two
George Mercer, Assistant Vice President to John Johanson who will be replacing Johanson upon his retirement Friday, May 2, 2014.
Glacier Bank One
Glacier Bank's retiring Vice President/Office Manager John Johanson.
Brown Hunt Two
Lance Oesau and Kelley Brown with the springboks they shot while hunting in the Kaokoland area of Namibia, Africa.
Brown Hunt One
Kelley Brown with the red hartebeest he shot while on a 10-day hunting trip in Namibia, Africa. The red hartebeest is a large African antelope.
Brown Hunt Three
Kelley Brown with the eland he shot while hunting in north central Namibia, Africa close to Etosha National Park. Brown said the eland was the premiere animal of those he harvested while on the 10-day plains game hunt.
