Friday, February 27
Sights set on gun range expansion
Members of the Libby Rod and Gun Club met with Lincoln County commissioners Wednesday and asked them to support a 10-year plan to expand the Lincoln County Shooting Complex from its current 31 acres to a proposed 450 acres, housing separate space for every shooting sports discipline. The range has been open and in use since 1946.
Troy mayor sets tone for future, removes perceived obstacles
Trimming any more fat from Troy’s book of resolutions will probably have to wait until next winter. With spring projects already getting started, Troy’s mayor, Darren Coldwell, will be occupied for the next several months. “I have to be honest; we’re getting a little busier now, so I don’t think I’m going to have the time to do the reading I was doing in the winter,” he said.
Charges upgraded in fatal shooting
Charges against a 74-year-old Libby man arrested earlier this month after a fatal shooting at his residence have been upgraded from negligent homicide to deliberate homicide.
William R. Rowberry
William R. Rowberry passed away the morning of Feb. 26 at Kalispell Regional Hospital.
Darrel Lee Palmerton
Darrel Lee Palmerton, “Papa”, 67, of Libby, lost his battle with cancer and went to be with Jesus on Feb. 25, 2015. Darrel, son of Clarence and Dorothy Palmerton, loving husband of Maureen Palmerton, passed away at his home in Libby surrounded by his wife and children. He was born on October 6, 1947, in Portland, Ore., but spent most of his life in Libby. He was an athletic youngster who was said to have pitched a no-hitter baseball game and bowled a perfect bowling game.
Vernon F. Riley
Vernon F. Riley, 74, of Libby, died Monday, Feb. 23, 2015, at his home in Libby. He was born on Sept. 16, 1940, at Hamilton, to Merwyn A. and Lucille Riley. He moved to Libby at an early age and attended the Libby school system.
Economic discussions underway
When the Troy Mine closed, John Rogers, chief business officer for the Montana Governor’s Office, contacted Lincoln County Commissioner Greg Larson to see what the the administration could do to help.
Work together to protect Montana patients
Guest Commentary:
CSKT questions remain unanswered by Vincent
Guest Commentary:
The concept of freedom has significantly diminished
Letter to the Editor:
Obama undermines constitutional separation of powers
Letter to the Editor:
Fix the problem, Libby City
Letter to the Editor:
Knife-wielding man forces school policy evaluation
The Libby School District might need to reevaluate their bus policies in the wake of a recent event in which a man, armed with a knife, stepped onto a bus and reportedly made threatening gestures toward the driver.
Lady Trojans end season with tourney losses
The Lady Trojans’ season came to an end with a pair of losses at the Western B Divisional Tournament in Kalispell with games on Wednesday and Thursday. Troy faced the Ronan Maidens in their first game and then took on Deer Lodge the following day.
Libby girls begin run at divisional title
The Lady Loggers will open their run at a divisional title tonight as they play Frenchtown’s Lady Broncs tonight in Whitefish.
Loggers lose first round of divisionals, 57-27
The Libby Loggers dropped their first game in the divisional tournament to Frenchtown Thursday evening, 57-27.
Water compact moves one step closer to ratification
The Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes Water Compact took one step closer to ratification yesterday, as the Montana Senate voted 31-19 to approve S.B. 262 and send it to the House for final passage.
Gunfire erupts in Eureka grocery store, man arrested
Shortly after 11 a.m. on Tuesday, shoppers in the Eureka Stein’s Market heard a gunshot ring out inside the store. A Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputy responded to the scene and, as a result, arrested James Martin, 48, on a misdemeanor charge of negligent endangerment.
Golf course opens early
The mild winter and lack of snow this year may be causing some concern with winter recreation enthusiasts, but it may prove to be good news for local golfers. The Cabinet View Golf Club is open for members and will likely be opening for public play within the next few weeks.
Columbia Falls sex offender gets five year prison sentence
A Columbia Falls man has been sentenced to five years with the Montana Department of Corrections for felony sexual abuse of children.
Family reacts to not-guilty plea in toddler's death
An Evergreen man accused of killing a toddler pleaded not guilty Thursday, drawing emotional responses from courtroom observers.
Campaign finance measure passes Senate
Montana senators passed a measure Thursday that would require more disclosure surrounding campaign donations.
Thursday, February 26
Hoops Jones
Senior guard Isaak Jones drives for the key past C-Falls' Ty Morgan second quarter Feb. 21, 2015.
Hoops Downey
Freshman guard Kaitlyn Downey looks to pass vs. Thompson Falls Jan. 31, 2015. Lady Bluehawk Logan Beckman guarding.
Hoops Craig
Lady Bronc Megan Delaney steals the ball away from Hailey Craig in third quarter vs. Frenchtown Feb. 7.
Klepfer 022715
Eric Klepfer- President/Principal - Mining Engineer, Klepfer Mining Services LLC. Meeting at Treasure Mountain Casino Feb. 26, 2015.
Obit Riley
Vernon F. Riley
Obit Palmerton
Darrel Lee Palmerton
Skeet Three
Sporting Clays: Isaac O’Rourke Shooting with busted target in the background.
Skeet Two
Colton Moore, left, Isaac O’Rourke, Dameon Kelch, Tanner DeHaven, and Roy Hyde, shooting.
Skeet One
Skeet shooters Dan Ackerman, left, Dick Brown and Dave Crum. Jan. 7, 2012.
Range Maloney
Dr. Jay Maloney sighting in his brand new Kimber 7mm-08. 10-2-07
Wednesday, February 25
Students discuss their career wishes
Tuesday, February 24
Police Blotter
Lincoln County
Libby's 14-year-old golf phenom
Ryggs Johnston started swinging golf clubs when he was only 2 years old. He’s continued to swing his way into another victory at a national golf tournament.
Libby man arrested with knife on school bus
A 57-year-old Libby man was arrested Friday following an incident in which he allegedly boarded a school bus brandishing a knife because he felt the driver was going too fast.
Water compact legislation passes first hurdle in Senate
Three Senate Republicans, led by Libby’s Sen. Chas Vincent, voted with five Democrats to move ratification of the Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes Water Compact to the floor of the Senate for approval.
Montanore permitting at final stages
The Montanore project, several decades in the making, could come to fruition as early as September, if everything goes according to plan.
Daniel Rayson
Daniel Ellsworth Rayson, 70, Tacoma, Washington, passed away Feb. 19, 2015, at Allenmore Hopsital in Tacoma, Wash., from an extended illness.
At the half-way point in the Legislature
Guest Commentary:
End-of-life freedom under attack by Montana legislature
Modern medicine has greatly extended and improved our lives, and advances in palliative care can help most people die in comfort, provided they have access to it. But as a board -certified physician in family medicine, hospice and palliative medicine, I know from nearly 30 years of experience that some dying patients experience pain and suffering that no medication can relieve. Anyone who tells you otherwise is kidding themselves.
All Montana cities paying for the misdoings of Libby
Letter to the Editor:
The devil's at work in Libby
Letter to the Editor:
Road closure meetings begin
At the Three Rivers Ranger District on Feb. 19, the first of four travel analysis discussions put together by the Kootenai National Forest was held to show how their online interactive map can be used for the public to post comments on any of the forest’s inventoried roads. Several hard copy maps were on display for people to view and give input on if they are unable to access the online version.
Sheriff's office has no leads in disappearance
Nearly nine months ago, 32-year-old William “Bill” Tebby walked out of a Libby bar for a smoke. He hasn’t been seen or heard from since.
Troy girls lose two, head to divisional tourney as fourth seed
In Columbia Falls on Saturday afternoon, the Lady Trojans were outscored by 10 points in the second quarter and went on to lose to Thompson Falls by a score of 32-43 in a District 7-B seeding game.
Lady Loggers lose at home to Wildkats
The Lady Loggers took to their home court in the Ralph Tate Memorial Gym Saturday night looking to avenge a previous beating suffered at the hands of Columbia Falls. The girls fought hard, but ran out of gas in the end, falling to the visiting Wildkats, 69-45.
Loggers end regular season flat against C-Falls
The Libby Loggers boys basketball team ended the regular season just as they started it, flat. The Loggers fell to visiting Columbia Falls in their last game of the regular season by a score of 76-30.
Monday, February 23
Montanore
Montanore Mine tour June 7, 2011.
Tebby
William Tebby 32, missing person.
Vincent, Chas
Sen. Chas Vincent, R-Libby, introduces Senate Bill 262 to the Senate Judiciary Committee at the State Capitol in Helena, Mont. Senate Bill 262 would delineate certain water rights to the tribes on the Flathead Indian Reservation while the oversight of an irrigation project that many non-tribal farmers and ranchers rely on in northwestern Montana would remain in the hands of its current operator. (AP Photo/The Independent Record, Thom Bridge)
Obit Rayson
Daniel Rayson
Sullivan, Sarah
Sarah Sullivan being arraigned before Judge James Wheelis 2-23-15.
Hoops Craig
Hailey Craig looks to pass in fourth quarter vs. Columbia Falls 2-21-15.
Hoops Adamson
Senior guard Luke Adamson drives the lane with Tyler Murphy in tow second quarter vs. Columbia Falls 2-21-15.
Hoops Brown
Troy guard Allie Brown brings the ball upcourt against Thompson Falls defender Sierra Sorlie.
Hoops Becquart
At a loser-out game at the district tournment in Columbia Falls, Saturday Troy's Aurora Becquart goes up for a shot against Bluehawk defenders Autrey Hannum and Haley Morgan.
Johnston, Ryggs
14 year old Ryggs Johnston of Libby wins the 14-19 yr old boys division by 4 strokes at the Rocky Mountain Junior Golf Tour 3 Day Elite Event. The tournament was held on the 7,000 yd Palms Course at Palm Valley Golf Club in Goodyear, AZ. Feb. 14-16. There were 31 players in his division. He shot rounds of 69-71-76 to finish even par with a 216 total.
Friday, February 20
Hoops Tallmadge
Senior guard Gage Tallmadge scores on a fade-away jumper in the first quarter vs. Mission Jan. 17.
Hoops Coldwell
Freshman guard Allie Coldwell on her way to the hoop after stealing the ball in the third quarter vs. Thompson Falls. She draws a foul and goes two for two from the line. Lady Trojans fall 49-35.
Hoops Coach Mee
Last time out with 5.1 seconds left on the clock and the score at 48-49 Mission, Saturday, Jan 17.
Hoops Becquart
Freshman Aurora Becquart brings the ball down court fourth quarter vs. Plains 1-24-15 (Plains' Leah Thompson, right)
Justice court consolidation issue escalates
Public reaction to the consolidation of the Lincoln County justice courts escalated during the past month, as a group of residents from northern Lincoln County continue to press the county commissioners to reevaluate their December 2013 decision.
Former resident writes fictional book about Libby
H.M. Bowker planned on writing a book about three of her fellow students from Libby High School. A 1961 graduate, Bowker wanted to tell a story about how kids from a small Montana community can chart their own course to success.
Libby elementary students to use drone helicopter for mapping project
Libby elementary students are preparing to take their studies of GPS and geographic information system technologies to a new level – literally – with the addition of a camera-equipped drone helicopter into a curriculum that already includes an impressive array of high-tech hardware and software.
Birth - Aiden James Halsey
Aiden James Halsey was born at 3:03 a.m. on Feb. 12, 2015.
Birth - Felicity Jane Snyder
Felicity Jane Snyder was born at 5:15 p.m. on Jan. 8, 2015.
Jimmie McKay
Jimmie Patrick McKay (Pat) passed away on Sunday, Feb. 15, 2015.
Steven Johnson
Steven Lee Johnson, age 55, passed away of heart failure in Whitefish on Friday, Jan. 30, 2015.
ObitSpencer
Faith Zollars Spencer
Faith Spencer
The last of the Spencer Road clan, Faith Zollars Spencer, 90, of Libby, passed away on Feb. 14, 2015, at Libby Care Center. She was the eldest child of Walter C. and Irene Zollars, Sr.
June Burns
A long-time resident of Montana, June Sanders Burns, 90, passed away Monday, Feb. 9, 2015, in her home in Troy. She was born June Frances Sanders in Potlatch, Idaho on June 1, 1924. Her parents, Henry and Lavina Sanders (deceased), raised their family on a ranch south of Troy on Iron Creek.
Libby willing to negotiate with church
The City of Libby is offering to negotiate a potential settlement with Libby Baptist Church for damage sustained to the church facilities during a 2014 flooding incident.
Drugs and alcohol require a community response
Letter to the Editor:
Big Sky Health addresses Montana health care issues
Letter to the Editor:
The nothingness and the everything of the wild
Guest Commentary:
Economic prosperity forum focuses on recreation
The most recent in a series of economic prosperity forums was held in Libby’s Ponderosa Room Wednesday evening to discuss the topic of monetizing the recreation opportunities of south Lincoln County.
Lady Trojans punch ticket for divisional tournament
The Lady Trojans extended their winning streak to three in a play-in game at Eureka Tuesday night. Troy won the rubber match against the Lions, 44-35, and kept their season alive for post-season action.
Troy boys' basketball season ends
The boys of Troy couldn’t keep pace with the Horsemen, who won the right to play in the divisional tournament with 48-44 victory in the teams’ play-in game at Plains on Tuesday. With the win, the Horsemen will take on top-seeded Bigfork on Thursday in the 7-B semifinal. With the loss, the Trojans’ season, coach Jerry Mee’s first, comes to an end.
Libby City Council meeting report
The Libby City Council on Tuesday voted to spend more than $50,000 from the economic development fund in order to purchase a new street sweeper and flush truck to replace failing equipment.
Troy City Council meeting report
The Troy City Council held their monthly meeting last night at City Hall with items on the agenda promptly moved through.
Daines: Chemistry of Congress may be ripe for timber reform
One thousand more jobs, that’s what Montana Sen. Steve Daines is hoping to realize for the state through timber and legal reforms in the coming year.
Libby Middle and High School honor rolls
The second term honor roll for Libby Middle and High schools has been released. Students with grade-point averages above 3.5 earn placement on the high honor roll.
Thursday, February 19
Mine Daines
Glenn Dobbs, left, and Congressman Steve Daines
Hoops Coach Mee
Last time out with 5.1 seconds left on the clock and the score at 48-49 Mission, Saturday, Jan 17.
Meyers Mug
Keith Meyers
Hoops Winebark
Kolten Winebark looks to pass in first quarter vs. Eureka Friday, Feb 13. Brandon Conard left.
Obit Burns
June Sanders Burns
Author Bowker's Book
H.M. Bowker's Book
Author Phillips
Marie Phillips (H. M. Bowker)
Tuesday, February 17
Forest Service mulls road closures
The Kootenai National Forest is deciding which of the nearly 7,900 miles of roads within their jurisdiction they will be closing. As part of the process defined in the National Environmental Protection Act, the United States Forest Service is required to garner public input before moving forward with projects on the ground. For that purpose the agency will host four travel analysis open house meetings from Feb. 19 to Feb. 26.
Two-Time State Champ
Greenchain wrestler Garret Chapel returned from the state wrestling tournament in Billings as the two-time, 170-pound Class A champion. Chapel plowed through his bracket on the way to a 48-second pin against Sidney’s Cody Johnson in the championship match.
Missing girl found in Spokane, returned to Lincoln County
Selena Shriner, 15, who was listed as missing/endangered by national criminal authorities, was found in Spokane, Wash., on Feb. 15 and returned to Lincoln County by members of her family. She is reported to be safe and unharmed.
Gaynell Mendive
Gaynell Giblin Mendive Keller passed away on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2015, at the home of her son, Dr. Steven Robert Mendive in Libby. Gaynell was 98 years old. She was born, Jan. 24, 1917, the daughter of Chester E. and Lottie Giblin, in Snohomish, Wash. She grew up in Fallon, Nev. Gaynell graduated from the University of Nevada in 1938. Gaynell and Pete Mendive married in 1940. They lived in Battle Mountain, Nev., Santa Barbara, Calif. and Henderson, Nev. Pete died in 1968. Gaynell was an elementary school teacher throughout her life in Nevada, retiring in 1976. Gaynell moved to Fallon, Nev. when she and Joe Keller married in 1977. After Joe died in 2000, Gaynell moved to Montana to live near her son, Steve.
Suspected car thieves apprehended in Libby
A pair of suspected auto thieves were apprehended in Libby early Monday morning, according to a report from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. Isaac Macy, age 18, and Tyler Davis, age 27, were arrested and will each be charged with one count of felony theft of a motor vehicle and felony theft in a common scheme.
2015 could bring big change to City Council
The first meeting of the Libby City Council in 2016 could feature a number of new faces. Four of the Council’s six seats will be up for grabs when the candidate filing period officially opens May 4.
Memories of an old friend, shared with new ones
Out of the fog of Valentine’s Day morning, 11 hearty hikers on snowshoes marched up a trail in the East Face of the Cabinet Mountains. Some of the ladies had the new neon colored outdoor jackets that really stood out in the foggy drape that enhanced the mystery of the morning lights approach. This hike, sponsored by Montana Wilderness Association, was billed as a Winter Snowshoe Foray, but recent weather and snow conditions made it less than ideal for snowshoeing, but the group stayed optimistic.
CSKT Compact is a better solution than litigation
The CSKT Water Compact under consideration by the Montana State Legislature is a complex agreement that has taken years, and many changes and improvements to produce. The result is compact language that is good for all Montanans.
Montana can't afford to not pass the CSKT Water Compact
Do you have thousands of dollars sitting in your bank account?
CSKT Water Compact is still not acceptable
The undersigned members of the Lincoln County Republican Club are quite concerned about the proposed, updated 2015 version of the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes (CSKT) Water Compact. From what information we have been able to gather, there does not appear to be any significant revision from the former 2013 version we strongly opposed. Therefore, we continue to oppose the CSKT Water Compact and SB 262, which is being introduced to support and sponsor passage of the subject compact.
Kurds need military support
The United States has to start directly supplying significant military equipment to the Kurds so they can effectively combat ISIS. The Kurdish Peshmerga troops are excellent fighters and our allies in the Middle East, and we need to strengthen them so they can defeat ISIS and take back territory in Iraq and Syria.
Ordinance committee recommends changes to fee policy
The Libby City Council’s ordinance committee will be suggesting changes to the proposed resolution regarding fees for public records access at tonight’s meeting. The resolution, number 1865, originally proposed a fee of 15 cents per copy for documents and $16.75 per hour for staff time spent researching and producing documents.
Legislators debate Confederated Salish-Kootenai Tribes Water Compact
A water allocation proposal among the state of Montana, the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes and the federal government was heard for the first time in the Montana Legislature Monday.
Loggers get pummeled in Polson
With just one game remaining before the divisional tournament in Whitefish, the Libby Loggers’ woes continued Saturday evening as they fell to the Pirates of Polson, 62-17.
Lady Loggers take tough road game at Polson
The Lady Loggers stole the show in the fourth quarter, outscoring Polson 14-4 to steal the win away from the Lady Pirates at home, 30-23.
Lady Trojans earn back-to-back victories
At Troy on Friday night, the Lady Trojans maintained control throughout in their conference matchup with Eureka and earned a 38-27 victory.
Trojans fall in pair of close weekend games
At Troy on Friday, Eureka outscored the Trojans 21-12 in the fourth quarter to steal a victory from the Trojans on their home court 58-53.
Lawmakers debate state's mental health crisis
Nobody argues that investment in Montana’s mental health care system is needed, but exactly how and where is turning into one of the longest and most complicated debates of the Legislative session.
Marchers protest lands transfer
Gov. Steve Bullock and others spoke to hundreds at a rally in Helena opposing the transfer of federal lands to the state.
Monday, February 16
Wrestle Crace Zach
Zach Crace vs. Laurel.
Wrestle Chapel G
Garret Chapel wrestling Tyler Schaub of Havre during the Class A state wrestling championship at 170, Billings, Feb. 14.
Car Theft Tyner
Duane Tyner, victim of car theft.
Obit Keller
Gaynell G. Keller
Old Photo 2-17-15
Good Samaritan Award Libby Middle School seventh grader Crystal Jones recently received a Good Samaritan Award for saving the life of her two-year-old nephew last fall. Teacher Jay Graham presented Jones with the award Friday. Jones acted swiftly and competently to help her nephew using the Heimlich maneuver, a technique she learned in an exploratory course taught at the middle school, Graham said. Photo from the Jan. 27, 199, files of The Western News.
Hoops Cielak
Jonny Cielak, center, and Luke Adamson, right, attempt to block the shot of Polson's Payton Lefthand Feb. 14.
Wrestle Chapel
Garret Chapel wrestling Cody Johnson for the Class A state wrestling championship at 170, Billings, Feb. 14.
Wrestle Chapel Champ
Class A state wrestling champion Garret Chapel.
Hoops Thomas
Olivia Thomas, left, and Taylor Brown were all smiles after defeating the Lady Lions 38-27 Friday evening.
Hoops Winebark
Kolten Winebark looks to pass in first quarter vs. Eureka Friday, Feb 13. Brandon Conard left.
Friday, February 13
Local student fulfilling military dream
For years, sixth-grade Libby Elementary teacher Shannon Ostrowski has tucked away students’ writings and assignments she thinks might be interesting to pull out in the future to share with them. One such assignment is dated Nov. 7, 2008.
Libby runaway listed as endangered
Wednesday morning Libby Police changed the status of Selena Shriner, age 15, to missing and endangered in the National Crime Information Center database.
Lincoln County unemployment highest in Montana
Lincoln County’s unemployment rate returned to the top spot in the state, according to data released by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.
Birth - Pederson
Sophia Marie Pederson was born Feb. 8, 2015.
Birth - Lane Lawson
Lane Alan Lawson was born on Jan. 24, 2015.
Birth - Ella Porteus
Ella Porteus was born on Jan. 24, 2015.
Birth - Aspen Larson
Aspen Larson was born on Dec. 21, 2014.
June Burns
A longtime resident of Montana, June Sanders Burns, 90, passed away Monday, Feb. 9, 2015, in her home in Troy.
David Benefield
On Jan. 30, David Benefield slipped away quietly of natural causes at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby. His life began in Eureka on his grandparents’ homestead at Black Lake on July 31, 1939. In 1949, David’s parents moved to Libby, where David attended school grades 1 through 6. The family then moved to Rexford, where David continued his education and completed high school in Eureka in 1957.
Carol Williams
Carol Ann Williams, 68, of Aloha, Ore., formerly of Libby, died Feb. 4 in Aloha.
DonationTroyLibrary
Kay Randall, left.
Troy High library receives grant
Bruce Carrier, member of Masonic Lodge No. 85 in Libby, presents a check for $5,000 from the Montana Masonic Foundation to Kay Randall, the K-12 Librarian for Troy Schools. Troy High School will use the grant funding to purchase 35 Chromebook computers to provide digital media and Internet access to students. Matching grant funds were also provided by Revett Mining Inc.
Deputies make drug arrest in Troy
Sarah “Kaci” Sullivan, a 24-year-old Libby woman, was arrested on Feb. 7 by Lincoln County law enforcement officers on an outstanding warrant dating back to July 2014. Sullivan was indicted July 31, 2014 on five separate counts of criminal distribution of dangerous drugs in Lincoln County Justice Court.
Hate crimes undermine the notion of equality
Guest Commentary:
Exporting domestic oil decreases dependency
Guest Commentary:
Answers to questions about the CSKT water compact
Letter to the Editor:
Obama's radical Supreme Court undermines Constitution
Letter to the Editor:
Libby needs better oversight
Letter to the Editor:
Police blotter
Lincoln County
IrishFair
James Hunter, left, and Rick Rubin of Floating Crowbar during Libby's 17th Annual Irish Fair.
Libby Irish Fair celebrating 20 years of heritage
The Libby Irish Fair will be celebrating its 20th anniversary when the party starts on March 7 at the Libby Memorial Events Center.
And then there were seven
And then there were seven. That’s the number of Greenchain wrestlers who traveled more than 500 miles to compete at one of the biggest shows in Montana.
Lions control Loggers from start to finish
At Libby on Thursday night, Eureka led from the beginning and never relented on their way to a 54-48 win.
Montana man sentenced to 70 years in shooting death
MISSOULA — A Montana man wasn’t defending his family but rather hunting someone when he shot and killed a German high school student who was trespassing in his garage, a judge said Thursday as he sentenced the man to 70 years in prison with no parole possible for at least 20 years.
Indecent exposure law tabled
Lawmakers have moved to help fund an effort to prevent child abuse by taking money from the governor’s office budget.
Rotary citizen of the month
Mike Cirian, right, is recognized as Citizen of the Month by the Rotary Club of Kootenai Valley at a Feb. 9 meeting. Cirian is an active member of the Knights of Columbus and volunteers in a number of community projects. Rotarian Eileen Carney, left, presents the award certificate.
Medical marijuana burglary nets five years for Idaho man
HELENA — A 23-year-old Idaho man who pleaded guilty to robbing a Montana medical marijuana provider has been sentenced to 15 years in prison with 10 suspended.
Keystone XL land seizure suspended
The Associated Press
National parks waiving admission fees for weekend in observance of Presidents' Day
BILLINGS (AP) — Yellowstone, Grand Teton and Glacier National Parks are waiving admission for visitors from Feb. 14 to 16 in observance of Presidents’ Day.
Committee cuts $2M from child services bid
HELENA — Lawmakers have moved to help fund an effort to prevent child abuse by taking money from the governor’s office budget.
Thursday, February 12
Hoops Maloney
Sam Hannay nearly has the ball stolen by Libby's Colin Maloney in second quarter vs Eureka Feb. 12.
Shooter Convicted
Markus Kaarma stands in Missoula County District Court while Judge Ed McLean sentences him to 70 years in prison for the shooting death of German exchange student Diren Dede on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2015 in Missoula, Mont. Kaarma shot 17-year-old Dede, who was unarmed, last year after he was alerted by motion sensors in his garage. Witnesses said Kaarma fired at the teen four times. (AP Photo/The Missoulian, Kurt Wilson)
Wrestle Yeadon
Alex Yeadon senior 152
Wrestle Miller
Michael Miller senior 160
Wrestle Chapel
Garret Chapel senior 170
Wrestle Crace
Zach Crace senior 152
Wrestle Parrish
Dylan Parrish sophomore 145
Wrestle Sams
Mason Sams, freshman 103
Wrestle Young
Laine Young freshman 126
Birth Porteus
Ella Porteus
Watkins
Johnette Watkins of Job Service
Rotary Cirian
Mike Cirian is recognized as Citizen of the Month by the Rotary Club of Kootenai Valley at its meeting on February 9. He is an active member of the Knights of Columbus and helps out with fund raising as well as their many community projects. He volunteers for Libby Scatterguns, where he runs the winter trap shoot league as well as serving as a coach for the youth trap league. He is involved with "Shoot for Pink" and "Shoot for Life" which help raise money for cancer victims and Relay for Life. He volunteers at the Libby Senior Citizen Center preparing meals for special events. Presenting the award is Rotary past president Eileen Carney. Rotary began the award to showcase those who give of themselves to make the area such a great place to live.
Birth Larson
Aspen Larson
Birth Lawson
Lane Alan Lawson
Birth Pederson
Sophia Maria Pederson
Runaway Shriner
Selena Lee Shriner
Birth Snyder
Felicity Jane Snyder, born Jan. 8, 2015 at 5:15 p.m., 8 pounds, 7.5 ounces.
One Yr Old Green
Conner Ryler Green
Obit Williams
Carol Ann Williams (Stedman)
Obit Benefield
David Benefield
Tuesday, February 10
Johnson buzzer-beater lifts Loggers over Broncs
With the score tied and 3.3 seconds left in the game, Libby had possession of the ball in their game against Frenchtown. The Loggers had called a timeout, and would inbound the ball on their end of the court from in front of the team’s bench.
Obit Davidson
Agnes Davidson
Forest plan calls for reduced access
For 14 years the Forest Service and interested parties have painstakingly worked to revise the Kootenai National Forest Plan. The protracted process has reached completion, and a new master plan to guide all activities on the forest will take effect on Feb. 17.
Fish, Wildlife & Parks use helicopters to tag moose
More than a dozen moose in the Cabinet Mountains and Fisher River areas were anesthetized, examined and fitted with GPS collars last month as part of an ongoing study being conducted by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
Chapel, Crace lead Greenchain to state
At the Northwestern Class A Divisional Tournament in Polson on Feb. 6 and 7, Libby Greenchain wrestlers qualified six for the state tournament in Billings. The team placed fourth out of five teams at the tourney scoring 90 points.
Mark Jungst
Mark Stephan Jungst, 65, died at his home in Johnson Draw, Libby, on Feb. 5, 2015.
Romie Johnson
Romie Arthur “R.A.” Johnson passed away due to congestive heart failure on Jan. 25, 2015. He was 91 and resided in Libby.
Agnes Davidson
Agnes Marie Davidson, 83, of Libby passed away peacefully Monday evening at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center following a short illness. Agnes was born on Aug. 30, 1931, in Franklin, Ky., to Robert and Frances Hamm. She was raised in Franklin with her three sisters, graduating from high school there.
Soulful Folsom coming to Libby
Musician, poet and artist Rebecca Folsom is bringing her near four-octave vocal range to the Libby Memorial Events Center for the community’s auditory enjoyment Thursday, Feb. 12. The Boulder, Colo., native is swinging through Libby as part of a tour that will take her through parts of Montana and Idaho.
Libby fire among nation's best
Libby’s volunteer fire department ranks among the nation’s best, according to their 2014 annual report.
Lack of answers leads to water compact opposition
Letter to the Editor:
Food insecurity plagues local communities
Guest Commentary:
Faith should unify, not divide, to solve social ills
Guest Commentary:
National Salute to Veteran Patients Week coming
Guest Commentary:
Flooding leads to conflict between city and church
Pastor Darwin Scofield of the Libby Baptist Church is asking the City of Libby to reimburse the church for nearly $40,000 as a result of flooding events that occurred in March of 2014.
Loggers' rally comes too late
On Friday night, the Loggers outscored the Bulldogs 16-6 in the fourth quarter, but the rally wasn’t enough to overcome a large deficit. The Loggers lost at Whitefish 41-49.
Trojans split weekend games
The Troy boys’ basketball team took a beating at home against Bigfork Friday night, losing 33-71, but came back on the road Saturday to tally a two-point win over Ronan, 57-55.
Rough weekend for Lady Trojan hoopsters
After a close home loss Friday to Bigfork, 48-53, the Lady Trojans took a beating on the road against Ronan on Saturday, 31-54.
Lady Loggers split games
Frenchtown shot 62 percent from the field on their way to a convincing win over the Lady Loggers at the Ralph Tate Gym on Saturday night, 58-40.
Monday, February 9
Wrestle Miller
Michael Miller wrestles during divisionals at Polson Feb. 7.
Wrestle Chapel Garret
Garret Chapel at Northwestern A Divisionals Polson Feb. 7
Wrestle Crace Zach
Zach Crace wrestling at Northwestern A Divisionals Polson Feb. 7.
Wrestle Crace
Zach Crace divisionals at Polson.
Wrestle Chapel
Garret Chapel wrestling a C-Falls opponent during divisionals at Polson Feb. 7 with referee Kurt Spencer.
Outdoors Three
Logan O'Neil atop Big Creek Baldy.
Outdoors Five
Jim O'Neil on the way up to Big Creek Baldy.
Outdoors Four
Fred Sichting, left, and Jim O'Neil on the way to Big Creek Baldy.
Obit Jungst
Mark Jungst
Obit Johnson
Romie Arthur (R.A.) Johnson
Hoops Olds
Brennan Olds receiving a pass from Mason Chapel in second quarter vs. Bigfork Feb. 6.
Hoops Tallmadge
Gage Tallmadge breaks away and fouled on his way to the hoop, one for two from the line third quarter vs. Bigfork.
Hoops Maloney
Colin Maloney, left, Collin Johnson, Jonny Cielak and Michael Curtiss celebrate after Johnson hit a buzzer-beating lay-up to defeat the Frenchtown Broncs 47-45.
Hoops Curtiss
Senior Michael Curtiss pulls down a defensive rebound in the fourth quarter vs. Frenchtown Feb. 7.
Hoops Craig H
Hailey Craig passes to Shannon Reny in fourth quarter vs. Frenchtown Feb. 7.
Hoops Craig
Lady Bronc Megan Delaney steals the ball away from Hailey Craig in third quarter vs. Frenchtown Feb. 7.
Hoops Coldwell
Freshman guard Allie Coldwell drives on Bigfork's Mattison McAnally in second quarter.
Hoops Brown
Allie Brown brings the ball down court in fourth quarter vs. Bigfork Friday evening. Lady Trojans 48, Vals 53.
Hoops Becquart
Aurora Becquart looks to pass in second quarter with Bigfork's Marissa Hiza guarding Feb. 6.
Hoops Bean
Loggers Coach Josh Bean.
Hoops Adamson
Senior guard Luke Adamson drives past Frenchtown's Kyle Smith in fourth quarter. Loggers 47, Broncs 45.
Donation Library
Kay Randall, left.
Friday, February 6
Vincent spearheads Water Compact legislation
The controversial Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes water compact is going to the floor of the Legislature for debate. The compact was introduced on Tuesday by Libby Sen. Chas Vincent, who chaired the interim committee on water policy.
Libby man faces 10 years for child porn
Prosecutors are seeking a 10-year sentence for a 42-year-old Libby man who has pleaded guilty to federal charges related to possession of child pornography.
Log truck rolls at highway junction
The junction of highways 2 and 56 near Troy can be deadly, as evidenced by the crosses placed on the side of the road to memorialize those killed in accidents. The quick action and driving experience of Brent Fitchett on Tuesday morning prevented the need for another one, according to witness reports.
Cuffe proposes alternative to Bullock's bill
Rep. Mike Cuffe of Eureka, chairman of the Montana Legislature’s Joint Subcommittee on Long-Range Planning, is preparing to go toe-to-toe with Gov. Steve Bullock on the issue of state debt and infrastructure.
Carolyn J. Ross
Carolyn J. Ross was born in Wayne, Neb., on June 10, 1941 and passed away in Dillon on Jan. 12, 2015 surrounded by her beloved family. Family was the most important thing in Carolyn’s life. She loved spending time camping with her numerous grandchildren and she always attended their sporting events. Her passion for quilting, church activities and traveling adventures brought her many close friends.
James R. Slaven II
James R. Slaven II, 68, died Thursday, Jan. 29, 2015 at his home in Troy after a short illness.
Roberta McMillan
Roberta “Robin” Ann McMillan, 59, of Libby, passed away at Kalispell Regional Medical Center on Jan. 28, 2015, with her family at her side. Survivors include husband David McMillan of Libby; daughters Misty Wilson (Chris) of Sugarland, Texas, Amber Lundin (Steve) of Libby, and Jamie Rosling (Sam) of Libby; father Leroy Lundin (Jo Ann) of Troy, sisters Kathy Davis of Troy, Charlotte Boyland (Michael) of Kalispell, Christy Wakefield (Dave) of Kalispell and Patricia Seefeldt of Libby; brothers Allen Lundin (Sara) of Kalispell, Robert Lundin (Stephanie) of Troy, and Phillip Lundin (Allison) of Troy; grandkids, Sierra James, Brittany Martinez, Skyler Beale, Brooklyn Rosling, Bailie Rosling, Dillon Hawkins-Lundin, David Hawkins and Sam Rosling, Jr.; two great-grandchildren, Lilliana Pasko and Jesse Martinez, and numerous nieces and nephews. Robin is preceded in death by her grandfather Oscar Pavola; grandmother Ruby Pavola; mother Roberta Pavola and brother Stuart Mills.
Tori Bush-Durham
On the evening of Jan. 27, 2015, Tori passed away peacefully with her son Kyle by her side. She was 41 years old. Tori was born in Libby and spent most of her childhood there.
Event awakens students to winter recreation
Guest Commentary:
Water compact is in Montana's best interests
Guest Commentary:
Closed primaries do not serve the public interest
Letter to the Editor:
Scofield honored for heroism
From left, Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe watches as Deputy Nate Scofield receives an award from Libby Volunteer Fire Department Chief Tom Wood while Undersheriff Brent Faulkner applauds. Scofield saved the life of Dorothea Miner during a house fire in Libby on Dec. 30, 2014.
Sheriff Bowe completes 25 years of service
From left, Lincoln County Sheriff Roby Bowe receives a commendation for his 25 years of service to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department from county commissioners Mike Cole and Greg Larson in a ceremony on Feb. 4.
Bipartisan campaign finance bills proposed
Montana’s Democratic governor and a Republican state senator are pushing for full disclosure of political donations under proposed legislation.
Greenchain hopes to qualify eight for state
For coach Kelly Morford’s Greenchain wrestlers, there are no superstitions or rituals necessary before they head into the divisional tournament this weekend in Polson, except for maybe freshman Laine Young’s pre-match Twix.
Senior Center menu
The Libby Senior Center serves dinner at 5 p.m. every Tuesday and Friday and lunch from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. on Wednesdays. Here’s what’s on the menu for February.
Lady Trojans come back in fourth, but fall short
The Lady Trojans of Troy gave Stillwater Christian all they could handle Tuesday on the Cougars’ home court, but fell by a final score of 56-58.
Troy boys lose close road game
In a competitive game on the road, the Troy Trojans lost to Stillwater Christian on Tuesday, 56-66.
Events schedule for county libraries
The Lincoln County Public Library system has a full calendar of events scheduled for February.
Montana legislature debates school choice and Common Core
Sen. Scott Sales, R-Bozeman, sat in his office recently and talked about why he supports school choice, a nationwide movement to increase access to charter and private schools.
Thursday, February 5
Award Bowe R
Sheriff Roby Bowe, left, LVFD Fire Chief Tom Wood and Undersheriff Brent Faulkner.
Award Scofield
Sheriff Roby Bowe, left, Deputy Nate Scofield, LVFD Fire Chief Tom Wood and Undersheriff Brent Faulkner.
Award Bowe
Sheriff Roby Bowe, left, Commissioner Mike Cole and Commissioner Greg Larson.
Wreck One
Ryland Branam of Motor Carrier Services, left, Brent Fitchett right, driver of the truck.
Obit Bush-Durham
Tori A. Bush-Durham
Copper Mtn BandSummer 15
Photo by Dustin Gent
Obit Davidson
Agnes Davidson
Obit McMillan
Roberta McMillan
Moose Two
Jan. 21, 2015
Turner Chevallier
Joel Chevallier
Tuesday, February 3
Wreck
Ryland Branam of Motor Carrier Services, left, Brent Fitchett and Bob Henline.
Obit Slaven
James R. Slaven II
ObitSlaven
James R. Slaven II
One dead, two in custody after shooting
A 38-year-old Libby man was shot multiple times and killed Saturday, according to a statement from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.
Lincoln County influenza outbreak continues
Montana’s Department of Health and Humans Services began statewide monitoring of the influenza season beginning Sept. 28, 2014. So far there have been 3,670 confirmed cases, 395 hospitalizations, and 10 deaths due to the illness reported to the agency as of Jan. 24, 2015.
Lady Loggers top Lady Trojans, 43-38
It was a hard-fought matchup from the opening tip, but at the end of the night the Lady Loggers got the victory over the home team Lady Trojans 43-38.
Trojans take early lead, defeat Loggers
The Troy Trojans had a 12-point advantage at halftime over the visiting Libby Loggers but almost relinquished it as the Loggers fought their way back in the third quarter. The Trojans hung on and ended up beating the Loggers, 50-45.
Harry Bowers, Jr.
Harry “Sonny” William Bowers, Jr., 75, of Kalispell, passed away peacefully at his home with Kathleen Bowers, his loving wife of 34 years, by his side. Sonny was born in Masury, Ohio on Sept. 9, 1939, to Harry and Kathryn Bowers. The family moved to Whitefish when Sonny was just 6 months old. Sonny was a life -long resident of the Flathead Valley. He was a “jack of all trades” and worked at many different jobs over his lifetime.
Lana Westfall
Lana Mae Westfall, 69, of Libby, passed away at her home of natural causes on Sunday, Jan. 25, 2015, with her loving husband at her side. She was born July 30, 1945 , at Harrisburg, Penn., to William A. and Elenore M. (Smyers) Fetters. Lana grew up and attended school in Butte, graduating from Butte High School with the Class of 1963. While in high school, she was very active in all the music programs. On Nov. 13, 1964, she married Robert Westfall and in 1973 they moved to Libby where she enjoyed the mountains and the activities they provide. She became pretty skilled at hunting and fishing. Lana loved embroidery and was very skilled in this art. Many people have sweatshirts, hats, etc. with her embroidery work displayed on them. Family was always very important to Lana. She very much enjoyed hosting the family reunions. Lana loved her two sons with a passion. She was preceded in death by her dad, William and her son, Travis.
David Benefield
David C. Benefield, 75, of Libby, passed away Friday, Jan. 30, 2015, at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center in Libby. He was born July 31, 1939, in Eureka, to Clay and Leona N. (O’Brien) Benefield. Services for David will be 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 6, 2015, at Libby Christian Church, 100 Kootenai River Rd., Libby. Interment will follow the service at 2 p.m. at the Tobacco Valley Cemetery in Eureka. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 5, 2015, at Schnackenberg & Nelson Funeral Home in Libby.
Mervin Fenimore
Mervin Dell Fenimore, 80, of Libby, passed away Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2015, of natural causes. He was born Oct. 19, 1934, in Portland, Ore. Services will be held in the spring.
Watson receives award for heroism
Libby Police Sergeant Terry Watson receives commendations from the Libby Police Department and the Libby Volunteer Fire Department at the City Council meeting of Feb. 2. Watson was credited for saving the life of Dorothea Miner by pulling her from the porch of her burning home on Dec. 30, 2014. From left, Libby Volunteer Fire Chief Tom Wood, Sgt. Terry Watson, Assistant Chief Steve Lauer.
Obamacare creating underemployment
Guest Commentary:
Speech is only as free as the government allows
Guest Commentary:
A board candidate's dream for the Heritage Museum
Letter to the Editor:
Pass CSKT now
Letter to the Editor:
Greenchain bids farewell to seniors
In the last match on Senior Night in the Ralph Tate Memorial Gym Thursday night, Reed Christensen had a chance to tie the team score against the Whitefish Bulldogs. He battled Brooks Krause for three periods and as time wound down Christensen defended while the crowd and coaches hollered for him to attack. Christensen was unaware that he was down by one point, which coach Kelly Morford called an honest mistake. Whitefish won, 36-30, as Libby bid farewell to a special group of senior wrestlers.
Bluehawks down Troy in district matchup
Slow second and third quarters haunted the Troy Trojans in their 54-37 loss to the Thompson Falls Bluehawks Saturday.
Second quarter slump sinks Lady Trojans
The Lady Trojans got off to an excellent start but let it all slip away in the second quarter against the Thompson Falls Lady Bluehawks.
Forum to focus on recreation industry
Strengthening southern Lincoln County’s recreation economy will be the topic of a public forum set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 18, in the Ponderosa Room at Libby City Hall.
Monday, February 2
Watson, Terry
Fire Chief Tom Wood, left, Terry Watson and Assistant Fire Chief Steve Lauer.
Hoops Coldwell
Freshman guard Allie Coldwell on her way to the hoop after stealing the ball in the third quarter vs. Thompson Falls. She draws a foul and goes two for two from the line. Lady Trojans fall 49-35.
Hoops Johnson
Senior guard Collin Johnson with Troy's Sean Opland in pursuit second quarter.
Hoops Brown
Taylor Brown and Shyla Stevenson stretch for a loose ball in second quarter Friday evening. Lady Loggers over Lady Trojans 43-38.
Hoops Chapel
Sophomore Mason Chapel drives on Collin Johnson in fourth quarter vs. Libby.
Wrestle Young
Laine Young vs. Dillon Thorsteinson of Whitefish at 120.
Wrestle Crum
Dean Thompson, left, Doug Crum and Kurt Spencer.
Obit Bowers
Harry "Sonny" William Bowers
