Sunday, October 31
Mental health clinics held
More than 19 million people in the United State suffer from depression annually. Many factors can lead to depression including unrealistic goals, financial stress, family expectations, and change of schedule or eating habits. According to Neil Nedley, MD, a few lifestyle changes may be all you need to break free of the trap of depression.
Friday, October 29
Candidates talk jobs and stimulation
The West End commissioner seat is up for election this November and residents had the chance to listen to the two candidates at a forum last week.
District 14 candidates speak at forum
With the amount of interest generated with this year’s elections, voters have been attending forums sponsored by the Chamber of Commerce to learn about candidates and their platforms. Republican Gordon Hendrick and Democrat Judy Stang, candidates for House District 14, took questions from the audience last Thursday night as well as presented why they believe they’re the best person for the job.
Sleepy Hollow to come to Plains
Montana Repertory Theatre’s Educational Outreach Tour will come to the Plains High School Gym, Nov. 5, at 7 pm. This year’s show is “The Real Legend of Sleepy Hollow” written by nationally famous screenwriter and playwright Ron Fitzgerald. This comedy interweaves two of Washington Irving’s most famous characters, Rip Van Winkle and Ichabod Crane, into a hilarious misadventure as they try to unearth the true story of the Headless Horseman. Tickets will be $6 advance or $8 at the door for adults; students $4. Tickets may be purchased at: First Security Banks in Plains and Thompson Falls; Garden Gift and Floral, Honeysuckle Natural Foods, both in Plains; Quinn’s Hot Springs Resort 826-3150. For information call 826-3119.
Plains XC coach expresses gratitude
Having just completed the cross country season, I wanted to take a minute to thank the residents of Plains and Sanders County for their support of our student athletes. Seeing folks rallying around our youth is one of the true pleasures of living in a smaller community. On behalf of Zoe Banovich, Kenneth Beech, David Damschen, Robert Earhart, Carter Montgomery, Garrett Horton, Daniel Damschen, Felicia Earhart, Teija Gill, Andrea Wood, Sera Boggess, Carley VonHeeder, Sheridan Martin and Ryan Ovitt - Thanks to Gena Ferlan for volunteering to coach the junior high squad. Thanks to all of the students, staff, and administration at Plains Public Schools. Thanks to Thompson Falls Public Schools for sharing transportation with our squads. Thanks to McGowan’s and Plains Drug for helping with goodie bags for the state championship meet. Thanks to the Montgomery, Damschen, Earhart and Cole families for decorating the bus and sending snacks for our trip to Helena. Thanks to the Brooker and Naegeli families for all that they do in support of high school distance running in Sanders County. Thanks to friends and alums who made the trip to Helena to watch the state meet – including Nathan Friesz (Plains H.S. shop teacher), Amber Harvey, and Tim & Carol Brooker. And, mostly, thanks to the parents and families of these athletes. It’s a big commitment to support and follow high school athletes; and, it’s much appreciated.
Keep Halloween Safe
As party-going ghosts and goblins celebrate Halloween this weekend, the Sanders County DUI Task Force reminds everyone to keep the party off the road.
'Fresh' premieres in Thompson Falls
Be prepared for a rude awakening. That is what Katrina Campbell, Thompson Falls Market manager and co-owner of the Falls Motel shares about “Fresh the Movie”. Its a movie being showcased by the Thompson Falls Market on Thursday, November 4th at the Rex Theater. If you have not already seen such movies as “Food Inc.,” “King Corn” or “FoodMATTERS,” attendees will be caught off guard when they hear about the issues with the industrialization of our food.
Solid opening weekend for hunting season
Hunters took to the field Saturday and Sunday across northwest Montana for the opening weekend of the general deer and elk season. At the six northwest Montana check stations, a total of 3,146 hunters checked 136 white-tailed deer, 25 mule deer, and 31 elk for a 6.1 percent rate of hunters with game. Of the whitetails checked, 95 were bucks and 41 were antlerless. The Highway 2 check station had the largest number of whitetail deer taken (40), while the Swan (31) and Olney (29) check stations weren’t far behind.
TFalls hold City Countil meeting
The Thompson Falls City Council met at 6 p.m. on Monday, Oct. 25 at City Hall. Council members James Robinson, Tom Eggensperger, Mark Sheets, Linda McKahn, and Raoul Ribero were in attendance at the meeting, which was lead by mayor Carla Parks. Council member Randy Roberts was not present at the meeting.
Wednesday, October 27
Panthers finish with win
It was a new season of football for the Alberton Panthers and they finished it with a winning game against St. Regis last Friday. The Panthers played their final six-man football for the season against the Tigers and won 63-22.
Superior nabs title
It was a long time coming, but the Bobcats managed to pull it off on Friday night. They defeated seventh-ranked Loyola in the last game of their regular season, 34-27. Superior ended up with the league title by a tie-breaker and finished 3-1 in league, 6-2 overall.
Austyn Marie Dalka
Austyn Marie Dalka was born on Oct. 16 at 9:57 a.m to Brian and Jessica Dalka of St. Regis, Mt. She weighed seven pounds and was 19 and a half inches long. The maternal grandparents are Marre Lewis of St. Regis, Mt., and paternal grandparents are Andy and Sherry Lowery of Blue Lake, Ca. Nellie Flack is Austyn’s great grandparent of McKinleyville, Ca.
Housing project boosts local economy
In today’s struggling economy, it’s not hard to imagine a string of abandoned, run down trailers creating an eye-sore for neighbors and passers by. It would be no stretch of the imagination to envision local teens getting into trouble without supervision. Maybe graffiti or vandalism, maybe worse.
Man sentenced in murder case
Stephen Harwood reloaded his single-shot derringer five times as he fatally shot his girlfriend and staged her death to blame it on a hitchhiker, a prosecutor said Tuesday.
JMG cleans up
This year’s Plains JMG (Jobs for Montana’s Graduates) class took time out of their day to clean up nearly four miles along Baker’s Grade on October 11, 2010. Starting at about 10:30 in the morning, they cleaned the highway up quickly when they finished by noon. Afterwards, they went to the Circle for some ice cream to celebrate. The highway cleanup is part of the community service that JMG students have to do for the class.
Monday, October 25
Battle of ideologies
Power, power everywhere—power, power; who really cares? It’s quite obvious the stakes are so very high and political parties stop at nothing short of desperate manipulation to win that almighty power for the political candidate. This power is to be greedily grasped no matter what the cost—cherish that power—hoard it. The political office holder is in control of that power and becomes a member of the “political elite.” Well, enough is enough.
Candidates meet at forum
Candidates for the post of Sanders County Commissioner met Thursday evening on Oct. 14. Democratic candidate Nancy Beech and write-in candidate Ron Olfert fielded questions on various issues. Republican candidate Glen Magera was not present at the event.
RSVP offers child safety files
The Department of Justice reported in 2002 that nearly 800,000 children are reported missing each year. The average victim of abduction is an 11 year old girl who is a “low risk”, “normal” child from a middle class neighborhood. 300,000 children end up being sexually exploited in the fastest growing crime in the world-child trafficking. Child trafficking is the 2nd largest crime, second only to the sale of illegal drugs.
Support for candidate
On November 2nd, the citizens of Mineral County face the significant choice of selecting a county attorney. The position demands experience, honesty, integrity and most importantly the intestinal fortitude to do what is right for the citizens of Mineral County.
County attorney forum held
County attorney candidates Shaun Donovan, who is running on the democratic ticket, and Marcia Boris, who is running on the republican ticket appeared in a forum on Thursday before residents of Mineral County.
Friday, October 22
Senior bowling standings
In the Tuesday Senior mixed league the standings are as follows: Colyer Oil 13-3, Country Kids 10-6, Woodchucks 9-7, McGowan 7-9, B and B Storage 7-9.
Savage Heat loses to Noxon, take St. Regis
The Hot Springs Savage Heat fell to Noxon, 3-1, on the road on Thursday, before redeeming themselves with a 3-0 sweep of St. Regis on Friday during Senior Night.
Does experience matter?
I am first of all writing to thank all of you who voted for me in the June Primaries in my run for county coroner.
Let's be civil
Former Thompson Falls Mayor Louis LaRock has been complaining about Doug Dryden’s lack of communication years back in a recent letter. I would like to share a little experience I had with Mr. LaRock about 10 years ago when I was looking to start a substantial business in “his” town.
Plains youth receives DUI
A trial was held on Thursday, Oct. 14 in a DUI case stemming from an incident on May 30.
COPING CHOICES: Eating disorder-what is it?
Dear Choices: Is eating disorder about more than just what you eat? I get so frustrated and confused and would like to be able to understand it.
DEA hosts drug take-back
On Sept. 25, the Drug Enforcement Administration and government, community, public health and law enforcement partners held a prescription drug “Take-Back” initiative that seeks to prevent increased pill abuse and theft. Potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs were collected for destruction at sites nationwide.
Thursday, October 21
Martha Eileen Schoening
Martha Eileen Schoening passed away at her home in Deer Park, WA on Oct. 6, 2010. She was 61 years old and had been fighting a battle with leukemia since being diagnosed in August. Her son, Ed, sisters Georgia and Frankie, and her very special dog, Bear, were with her.
Cub scouts learn about police
Most people will never learn two languages in their lifetime, but the cub scouts found out last Tuesday that Max Flo Jo, Deputy James Balenger’s canine companion knows two: English and Spanish.
Lady Bobcats swept twice
It was a long week for the Superior Lady Bobcats who were swept twice, first versus Valley Christian on Thursday, and later against Loyola on Saturday.
Lady Panthers lose two on the road
Alberton dropped a pair of matches on the road this week, first at Lincoln, 3-1, and later, 3-0, at Drummond.
Alberton shuts out Heart Butte
The Alberton Panthers (2-4 conf., 3-4 ovr.) put the hurt on Heart Butte Warriors (0-4, 0-6) in a 61-0 six-man North victory on Friday.
Tigers comeback falls short
St. Regis fell to Valier 76-42 on Saturday, but one bounce might have changed the outcome of the Six-man North game.
Championship within reach for Bobcats
After smashing Darby 50-14 on Friday, the Superior Bobcats are just one win away from a District 6-B regular season championship.
A glowing recommendation
Since August 2007, I have presided over Justice Court in Sanders County. Previously, I had been in law enforcement for over 30 years, in both urban and rural areas. In my experience on both sides, it would be extremely difficult to perform the job of Justice of the Peace without a law enforcement or judicial background. Having conferred with Judge Wanda James on complicated or technical issues that I have faced in Sanders County Court, I can attest to her knowledge of the judicial system and her professionalism. Keep the knowledge, professionalism and experience of Judge Wanda James in Mineral County. You have invested your money in Judge James’ training, continued education and community programs for 15 years. A vote for Judge Wanda James is an ongoing commitment to professionalism and experience in Mineral County.
We Care event a success
Folks from all over Mineral County came together to take part in the We Care Festival in Superior, which was held on Saturday, Oct. 16. The gathering took place in front of the historic school building in the heart of Superior, and featured several different exhibits, activities for kids and live music courtesy of the Zylawy brothers. The event was intended as a fundraiser for the newly created We Care organization.
Wednesday, October 20
Aiden Lee James Skellenger
Aiden Lee James Skellenger was born on Sept. 27, 2010 at the Clark Fork Valley Hospital. He weighed seven pounds, eight ounces and was 20.5 inches long. His parents are Kelsie Rogers Dylan Skellenger of Hot Springs. His paternal grandparents are Jay and Shirley Skellenger of Hot Springs, and his paternal great-grandmother is Anita Swope of Polson. His maternal grandmother is Mercedes Winterfeld of Hot Springs, and his maternal great-grandparents are Dave and Patti Winterfeld of Hot Springs.
Eillie Rene, Chambers
Eillie Rene Chambers was born on Sept. 25, 2010 at the Clark Fork Valley Hospital. She weighed six pounds, three ounces and was 19 inches long. Her mother is Lacey Chambers of Trout Creek. Her maternal grandparents are Paul and Bonnie Chambers, and her maternal great-grandfather is Harold Chambers.
Glenn Robert Sheldon
Glenn was born March 23, 1953 and passed away October 4, 2010 at his home in Hot Springs of natural causes.
Trotters lose two
The Plains Trotters fell twice at home, 0-3, to Mission on Thursday and Eureka on Saturday, last week.
First win for Noxon Girls
The Noxon Red Devils (1-7 conf., 1-10 ovr.) broke into the win column for the first time this season, defeating Hot Springs, 3-1, in a District 10-C conference match.
Noxon Red Devils make history
By dismantling Victor 44-8 in a Western C matchup on Saturday, the , 4-3 the Noxon Red Devils have made history.
Lady Hawks up and down
The Lady Hawks defeated Bigfork, 3-1, before falling to Florence, 0-3, last week.
Bluehawks keep playoff hopes alive
After losing their first five games, Thompson Falls has kept its playoff hopes alive with a 35-14 thrashing over Eureka on Friday night.
Horsemen lose to Bulldogs
With a 59-22 loss on Senior Night to Mission (2-2 conf., 4-2 ovr.), the Plains-Hot Springs Savage Horsemen (1-4, 1-6) have been eliminated from District 7-B post-season contention.
Runners excel at the Edge
Peaking at just the right time – that’s the whole purpose of the 10-week cross country season. It’s where the science of training meets the art of experience. As a coach, you put together a mix of quality and quantity; work and recovery; motivation and support; and, above all, hope. Hope that the plan included enough mileage – but, not too much; hope that you pushed them hard enough – but, not so hard that they crossed the fine line into injury or illness; hope that you gave them the direction needed to be successful; and, hope that you did the right thing for each of the 10 wonderfully unique individual athletes that were part of the 2010 Plains High School Cross Country team.
Hobbit House pops up in Trout Creek
Fog rolled into the Whitepine Valley on Thursday, Oct. 7, shrouding the hills with a feeling of mystery and fantasy, perfect for the unveiling of the Hobbit House of Montana, a brand new lodging facility built by Steve Michaels of Trout Creek. People from all over gathered to see the brand new and very unique structure, and to share some delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared for the occasion. As night fell and attendants roamed around the Shire, tiny windows of hobbit and fairy houses lit up, and transported the whole event to J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth.
To coordinate or not to coordinate
I am more than curious after reading recent letters to the editor articles in both the Valley Press and Ledger about the status of coordination in Sanders County. This process, as I understand it, had been approved over two years ago and required a signature of just one of three Sanders County Commissioners to initiate a meeting with the US Forest Service.
We the People: the bigger picture
Many months ago I wrote an article about David Walker’s warnings about the fiscal direction of this country. Mr. Walker, the former Comptroller of the United States from 1998 until 2008, has been warning politicians, the media, and the American public for over a decade that we are off course and headed for disaster. In August 2007, before the financial system meltdown of 2008, Mr. Walker declared:
House burns near Dixon
Early Wednesday morning an abandoned house erupted into flames in Dixon, just off of Highway 200.
Monday, October 18
Shocked by disrespect
On Saturday, Oct. 9 at 1 p.m., in the Mineral County Military Cemetery in Superior, Montana, I laid my father to rest. He was a WWII Veteran who was wounded on D-Day and also in the Battle of the Bulge. My father was later awarded the Bronze Star.
Art show held in Plains, Hot Springs
Artists and art lovers from all over Sanders County made their way to the Clark Fork Valley Hospital for the Art on the Walls Exhibit, which was installed Friday, Oct. 1. The reception held there honored the work of the 10 local artists who were featured in the show, and also recognized supporters of the arts within the community.
Glacier's gift
Autumn is my favorite season. Maybe it’s the bright colors, the cooler temperatures or the general slowing down of life in this summer recreation haven. Maybe it’s nostalgia for the start of a new school year and the excitement of high school sports playoffs. Friday night football games, Saturday cross country meets, it’s hard to not be happy during those few perfect weeks when summer scorchers transition into crisp afternoons.
Keeping in touch
In preparation for the upcoming legislative session, I have recently attended two meetings regarding health care challenges and the impacts the New Health Care Reform Laws are having on Montana. While the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (PPACA) and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 (HCERA) – commonly known as Obamacare - are undergoing legal challenges as to its constitutionality as well as individual states’ efforts to opt out of the federal legislation, such as The Freedom of Choice Act Constitutional amendment, these legal challenges and states actions have not deterred the implementation of some of the legislated changes which are, at the least, introducing new challenges for medical and insurance providers.
Importance of coordination
In the Sanders County Ledger, one Doug Ferrell commented on Ron Olfert’s pro-coordination article. Mr. Ferrell’s long-winded comments about “coordination” missed the whole point of the process. Or he never attended the meetings that were held at which County Commissioners promised to send letters demanding coordination; or if he did, chose to not listen, or is merely a plant to denigrate Ron Olfert and those who seek to limit Federal and State involvement in deciding the fates of local economics.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: internet dating
In 1727, Helen Morrison, a lonely spinster in Manchester, England, placed the first lonely hearts personal, advertising for a husband in the local weekly newspaper. In response, the town mayor committed her to a lunatic asylum for a month. But in hindsight, Helen Morrison was a pioneer. People from that period would be appalled that the day has come when advertising for a mate is considered a legitimate way of meeting new people. Chat rooms have replaced bar rooms and dating sites. Personal ads no longer have the “stigma” they once did.
Friday, October 15
Lady Panthers net win
The Alberton girls started last week’s volleyball play with a match against Drummond. They ended up losing on Tuesday night, but came back strong on Friday to beat Victor.
Semi flipped in accident
A semitrailer flipped over on its side Monday while traveling down Interstate 90. The accident happened at around 3:49 p.m. at mile marker 68.
Nicholas Isaiah Stutzman
Nicholas Isaiah Stutzman was born on Sept. 9, 2010 to Landis & Michelle Stutzman of Kalispell, MT. He was born at Family Birth Services (freestanding birth center) in Libby MT. He weighed 6 lbs. 10 oz. & was 21” long. Paternal Grandparents are Tim & Naomi Stutzman of Kalispell & Maternal Grandparents are Gary & Cintra Morton of Kalispell. Proud siblings are brothers Isaak, Christopher, & Sean & sisters Olivia & Dasha.
Doug Browning and Tara Baker
Doug Browning and Tara Baker were married on Sept. 18, 2010 at the Plains Golf Course. Tara is the daughter of Maureen Rowan. Doug is the son of Mary K. and Vernon Browning. They plan to make their home in Plains, MT.
Kari Reid-Rummel
Kari Reid-Rummel went home to be with her Lord on Thursday, October 7th, 2010; at Kalispell Regional Hospital in Kalispell, Montana.
Words against CI-105
I’ll be voting against CI-105, the initiative proposing a constitutional amendment, and for what it’s worth, here’s why.
The power of one
Should one be so disruptive? Wolves, logging, mining, gun rights, all subject to the opinion of one, proclaiming he is not accountable to anyone.
Responsibilties to the people
This is to follow up Judy Wooley and Pat Legard’s letter from last week regarding the Sanders County Republican Central committee. The SCRCC is as irrelevant as is our U. S. congress. Congress has passed its responsibility to Obama, just as the SCRCC has passed its responsibility on to Mike Hashasaki. We are just a microcosm of what is happening in Washington D. C. The ruling elite is trying to control the people and they just don’t get it. We the people are fed up with the business of politics as usual.
Plains classroom receives grant
The One Class At A Time grant from Allegiance Benefit Plan Management and KPAX-TV News Station of Missoula presented a $250 grant check to Nichole Cockrell on Wednesday.
Thursday, October 14
CNSC holds wine tasting and fashion show
When you think of a model, you probably don’t picture a friend or neighbor from Sanders County fighting for a cause you believe in, but that’s exactly what happen last Thursday, and to the tune of 5,500 dollars.
Noxon drops third straight game
A 30-point third quarter was enough to give Arlee a 60-26 advantage on Friday versus Noxon.
Trojans ground Lady Hawks, end winning streak
The Lady Hawks looked impressive last week, breezing by both Plains, 3-0, and Valley Christian, 3-1, before being grounded by Drummond.
Trotters tumble
This week Plains fell to rival Thompson Falls, 3-0, on Tuesday and again to Troy, 3-1 on Saturday.
Savage Heat go one-for-three
The Savage Heat had an up and down week. First losing to Charlo, 3-2 on Tuesday, and Stillwater Christian, 3-0, on Friday, before rebounding against Two Eagle River for a 3-0 victory.
Rivalry comes to a head
Plains-Hot Springs and Thompson Falls squared off Friday night in a grudge-match that’s older than the seniors on either team.
Urge for research
As an independent voter, I have been involved in the current electoral process since April 2010 and would like to share my observations for what they are worth.
Share records
Billy Hill’s most recent campaign brochure states, “Billy has a proven record of accomplishment as a military noncommissioned officer, Korea and Vietnam...” Review of Billy Hill campaign material and interviews published in local newspapers throughout his numerous campaigns for sheriff show a number of references to his tour of duty in Korea.
Plains woman dies in single-car accident
Twenty-two-year-old Kari Reid was killed in a single-car accident on Thursday afternoon just outside the Plains city limits.
Fairgrounds prepped for fall
Workers cleared several cottonwood trees from the Sanders County Fairgrounds in an effort to maintain the grounds last Wednesday, Sept. 29. Five large trees, which stood on the west side of the fairgrounds, were felled due to rotting in the limbs. Sanders County Fair Manager Mike Hashisaki decided shortly after the conclusion of this year’s fair that these trees should be taken down, the reason being that several large limbs had fallen off in an area that is frequented by heavy auto and pedestrian traffic during the year.
Monday, October 11
Wolves' rebound causes economic woes
Not only have wolves made a political splash in recent years, but now an economic one as well.
Doug Dryden for Sanders County Sheriff
When Doug Dryden was game warden in Mineral County, he had a reputation as a fair, dedicated, effective and tireless public servant. You’re lucky to have him in Sanders County and I hope you vote for him for sheriff. You’ll be glad you did.
Elected officials shouldn't run us down
Recently, Republican state representatives Pat Ingraham and Gordon Hendrick and state senator Greg Hinkle met with Sanders County school administrators to talk about the school funding challenges facing the 2011 legislature. The meeting was arranged by Sanders County Treasurer Carol Turk who is running for re-election on the Republican ticket along with Ingraham and Hendrick. All three of the state officials expressed their concern about school funding issues. I would find their concern a lot more credible if any of them had ever actually voted for state funding for education.
Thoughts on wolves
I may not be a county attorney or a county commissioner, but I am a thinker. I think that the county attorney or commissioners have not given very much thought to the plan they are thinking about—declaring Mineral County a wolf disaster county.
Airport Issue
A letter printed in the Mineral Independent on Sept. 15 requested documentation from the specific wording of the 2005 Mineral County Airport ground lease contract which would support the county’s termination of the contract in July of 2008. It should be noted, in their subsequent comments, both here and online, that neither county attorney Shaun Donovan, nor commissioners Judy Stang, B.J. Mcomb or Clark Conrow were able to provide this documentation.
New deputy hired
The Mineral County Sheriff’s Department has been able to use funds provided through the Cops Grant to fill a position left vacant. Local resident Adam Cole was named as a deputy within the department a couple weeks ago and says he’s ready.
Friday, October 8
Billy Hill is more than lip service
Are you a citizen or a customer of your county and state government?
Ron Olfert wants to revive local economy
To dispel any conflicting rumors or ideas about the manner in which the Democrats and Republicans have been involved in the decision to disallow write-in candidates to participate in the forums, you can find a rather lengthy chronology at the following website: http://www.rmhiherbal.org/xloc/olfert/. All pertinent documents are reproduced there.
Billy Hill is my choice for sheriff
Friday evening, Sept. 24, I attended an event billed as a debate between write in candidate for Sheriff Billy Hill and current Undersheriff Rube Wrightsman. I was looking forward to hearing facts and evidence to help me with my decision making in this important race. While the debate did not happen, though Billy Hill was there and ready, I did learn much from hearing Billy Hill speak and present his case for why he should be the next Sheriff.
'Mariah's Challenge' to speak in Superior
Underage drinking is a factor in a host of serious problems including homicide, suicide, traumatic injury, violent and property crime, alcohol poisoning and need for treatment for alcohol abuse and dependence to name a few.
St. Regis wins three over Hot Springs
The St. Regis volleyball girls played a game against Hot Springs last week. In what has been an up-and-down season for the girls, the Lady Tigers proved to a threat on Friday when they played Hot Springs at home. It was homecoming week for the girls and they had lots of enthusiasm and excitement as they stepped onto the court.
Candidate qualifications
A recent story in the Clark Fork Chronicle called into question Marcia Boris’ qualification for the office of Mineral County Attorney. If the reporter of that story had asked me if Marcia was qualified, my answer would have been “yes, most definitely” on two bases:
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Compulsive lying
Lying often starts in childhood and may be part of the normal developmental process or lying could be an indicator of a more serious problem. Why do children lie? Many young children (ages 4-5) often lie because of their inability to distinguish fact from fantasy. An older child or adolescent may lie to avoid doing something, or deny responsibility for their actions to avoid disapproval and punishment. Others may lie to prevent hurting people’s feelings or to protect their privacy. For some children, lying is a common place behavior that they experience all the time. For instance, parents tell white lies, break promises or distort the truth (“I had to lie because--”).
Team raises cancer awareness
The girls on the Alberton volleyball team are taking a stand against breast cancer this month. The month of October is breast cancer awareness month and the girls decided as a volleyball team that they would take the opportunity to raise awareness and to also raise some funds.
Thursday, October 7
Open burning means fire-season is over
Despite warmer temperatures this past week, the beginning of fall and generally wetter than normal summer weather has fire officials on the brink of declaring the 2010 fire season a done deal. But “don’t count your chickens before they hatch,” several local fire officials warned.
Becoming a hall of famer
Playing football on the collegiate level is tough. Starting for a college team is even tougher.
Noxon Falls to Charlo
Noxon faced the fifth-ranked class C team in the state on Friday and came up short. The Red Devils dropped their second straight to Charlo, 26-0. The Vikings advanced their undefeated record to 4-0 in conference and 5-0 overall as the Red Devils slipped to 2-2 in conference and 3-2 overall.
A lil' backcountry ingenuity
Dr. Michael Righetti’s day job prepares him pretty well for the unexpected medical emergencies he may encounter as a backcountry horseman. The St. Joseph Medical Center orthopedic surgeon knows that a little ingenuity can go a long way when limited resources and wilderness isolation force you to think outside the box to save a life.
High Bridge receives award
The Sanders County Commissioners and the High Bridge Committee were selected by the Montana Preservation Alliance (MPA) to receive one of this year’s Excellence in Historic Preservation Awards. They were selected for their “amazing efforts to restore and re-open the historic High Bridge.” Three members of the committee, Tim Harlan, Katy Walton and Jean Polequaptewa, along with Carol Brooker, Commission Chair, made the trek to Helena Wednesday, Sept. 29, to accept the award. A reception and ceremony was attended by 100 or so MPA volunteers, members and other honored guests at the Montana Club in Helena.
Glad to be an Independent
Thank God I am an independent voter. It sickens me to see what is happening to our political parties. Neither one seems to care about us, the voting public. They refuse to listen to what we have to say how we feel on the issues, and to vote the way we are asking them to.
Market is a great addittion
Saturday was the closing day of the Thompson Falls Market and attendees enjoyed perfect fall weather, nearly 20 vendors, live music and a cinnamon roll contest that included some of the county’s best bakers (boy, those were some lucky judges!). We are fortunate to have a market that allows folks to come together from around the county to buy locally, display and sell their made/grown in Montana goods, and to just visit with neighbors.
Church graced with new pastor
When Roy Williams stepped down as the pastor of the Plains First Church of God, not only did he leave a tremendous leadership void, but a personal one as well.
Hospital wins award
The Clark Fork Valley Hospital was the recipient of a 2009-2010 Quality Achievement Award from the Mountain Pacific Quality Health Foundation (MPQHF).
Monday, October 4
New shepherd for flock
Although he recently moved to St. Regis, Thomas Hall, the pastor at the Plains United Methodist Church, is no stranger to Montana or to thinking outside the box.
Work begins on Trout Creek Road
The Superior Ranger District would like to alert the public that construction on the Trout Creek Road gravel project will begin this fall. The project involves crushing road gravel at the Cedar Creek Pit and placing gravel on Trout Creek Road 250 from the end of the pavement just beyond the old Diamond Mill to Hoodoo Pass. Construction will begin shortly before Oct. 1, and will continue until snowfall. Road construction will resume in 2011 after snowmelt, and continue until early Aug. 2011.
Don't drink and drive
Remember when you could drink and drive, you just couldn’t drive drunk? So, what is it going to take to get some people to quit drinking and driving over the limit? Is death going to be the answer? Your number will eventually come up in some form. Take a minor accident or DUI as a sign, maybe even a blessing.
Energy policies
In an interview with the Missoulian last week, State Representative Pat Ingraham let slip that she wants us to pay higher energy bills. She stated that she supports further deregulation of energy companies. The lessons of the past are clearly lost on Mrs. Ingraham — when the state legislature deregulated energy in the late 1990s, Montana went from having some of the cheapest energy to having some of the most expensive. Further deregulation of these big companies will only result in higher prices.
Food for Thought: homework battles
Do you find homework time often becomes a war zone where there is begging, pleading, bargaining and demanding between you and your child? Every September these battles happen on a daily basis throughout the country.
Partisan concerns
What’s up with Republicans these days? Take the recent primary race for Senator in Delaware to replace Joe Biden’s seat, for instance. Republican voters were faced with choosing old establishment “moderate ideals” by casting their vote for candidate Mike Castle or taking a truly bold step by selecting Christine O’Donnell as their choice for a conservative reformer. The standard everyday Republicans are not going to “roll the current destruction” occurring in America today, in the halls of Congress in Washington, D.C., in the State legislative sessions amongst all fifty states, or even in hundreds of local courthouses of county governments.
A nice, quiet candidate
Quietly going about his campaign, Tom Rummel has not resorted to mudslinging. He is doing everything you expect of a competent and good candidate for sheriff. He is a mature and wise candidate. He’s been around for half a century, and his time in the Sheriff Department has given him the experience to be Sheriff. He has a warm and loving family. If you were fortunate enough to see the picture in the paper of Tom sawing down the monstrous tree you know he is brave and thoughtful and attests to the fact that in all the years he worked in the woods he never had a serious accident. He is a straight arrow and won’t play favorites. My family and many friends and I support Tom Rummel for sheriff.
Claws out at election
Before I even speak to Nancy Beech, I’d like to take a moment to respond to G. Stone’s public attack on her. While checking community bulletin boards for garage sales, I found Mr. Stone’s very angry letters all over town, questioning Nancy Beech’s ability to be a County Commissioner. Apparently, his issue was that he was not happy with a sprinkler system her company had installed at his home “several years ago.” Recently, at his request, she sent her employee to troubleshoot a problem, parts were needed, and it has been a week and Mr. Stone hasn’t heard back from Nancy. Although I believe totally in everyone’s right of free speech, I feel strongly that this is not the right forum for Mr. Stone’s business complaint and political comments. How about using the Better Business Bureau and the candidate’s public meetings?
We the People: agency bills
Last week we finished up our work on the Law and Justice Interim Committee (LJIC). The LJIC provides oversight of the Department of Justice, the Department of Correction and the Office of Public Defenders. It was at this meeting that these state agencies brought forth their bill proposals for the next session. The Department of Justice has seventeen bill requests. Some of these have been brought up at previous sessions. There appears to be a habit of continuing to introduce a bill until it eventually becomes law. One of these, the Primary Seatbelt Law is a good example, this bill was narrowly defeated last session. Here is a synopsis of other bill requests:
Friday, October 1
'We Care' sets out to host first benefit
Last December, a group of residents from around Mineral County gathered together with the idea of organizing the Mineral County “We Care” Foundation of Montana. Just last week, the organization gathered together again only this time they were planning an event that would help benefit a father, James Hodge, and his son, Bryan.
Soccer on Saturday
Lots of coaching, encouragement and cheering could be heard from the sidelines on Saturday as St. Regis teams played Superior teams in soccer.
Panthers fall to Valier
The Alberton Panthers found themselves with another loss over the weekend as they battled Valier on the road.
Superior notches victory
Last week, the Superior volleyball team had a slow schedule with just one game on Tuesday night, but it came with plenty of pressure.
Bobcats lose homecoming to Wolves
It’s wolf season in Superior.
Tough Breaks
The St. Regis Lady Tigers had a full schedule of volleyball last week. They started play on Tuesday with a match against St. Regis and then traveled to Charlo on Thursday. Finally, they finished out the week in Arlee with tournament play.
Art show to feature local artist
Local artists from across the region will assemble at two collaborating art events in Plains and Hot Springs, both of which will be held on Oct. 6.
Wine tasting upcoming
Once again, it is time to celebrate fall with the Ninth Annual Wine Tasting and Fashion Show. This event was conceived by Erica Swanson Lawyer, McGowan’s Grocery, Laura Rehbein and Mountain West Clothing. This year those businesses, plus Clark Fork Valley Hospital, Kalispell Regional Medical Center, Community Hospital and St. Patrick Hospital will again be sponsors.
Project concerns neighbors
Plans for construction on a plot of land off of River Road West in Plains have area residents concerned about potential repercussions. While several residents of the neighborhood above River Road West have voiced apprehensions about the proposed construction due largely to environmental concerns, officials from Sanders County have asserted that there would be no inherent risk in the proposed building.
Performing arts concert series
The Mineral County Performing Arts Council is excited to start their 2010 – 2011 concert series with the Greater Missoula Area Single Reed on a Wooden Horn Society. (GMASRWHS) The concert will be held Oct. 1, at the Superior Baptist Church, 609 5th Avenue East, in Superior at 7 p.m.
Grants offered by MCCF and Old Schoolhouse Rock
Grants of up to $500 will be offered to community organizations located and serving Mineral County. Applicants do not necessarily need to be officially recognized as non-profits, but must demonstrate that their focus is on a charitable service to the people and communities of Mineral County.
Wolf "problem" hits home
County Commissioners met on Wednesday to discuss the possibility of declaring Mineral County a disaster area, which would give citizens the right to kill a wolf if it threatened people, livestock or big-game animals. This proposed resolution is patterned after a similar one drafted by commissioners in Idaho County, Idaho, which asked Gov. Butch Otter to allow wolves to be eradicated in north-central Idaho County by any means necessary.
St. Regis motorcycle crash fata.
A 68-year-old male from Idaho lost his life in a motorcycle crash on Saturday night in an accident that happened shortly after 5 p.m.
