Wednesday, April 24
The pitch - by Colin Murphey
A Trotter softball player winds up for a pitch against Ronan.
Food bank
The Plains community came out to support the local Food Bank which received aid from a faith-based nonprofit, Convoy of Hope. Thirteen pallets of food were delivered on Saturday.
Food Bank receives 10 tons of food
PLAINS – The food bank received their largest donation ever on Saturday with 13 pallets of food equaling almost 10 tons.
Plains School Board discusses dismissal of a teacher
PLAINS – The Plains School Board of Trustees met Monday to discuss the nonrenewal of a non-tenured teacher: Nathan Friesz.
April brings late storm into Sanders County
An unexpected winter storm Sunday afternoon dumped over four inches of snow in parts of Sanders County. There were a few reports of vehicles sliding on slushy roads but no serious accidents or injuries were reported.
April snow storm
The heavy snow clings to a fence along River Road West Monday morning after the sun finally came out.
Clark sentenced to 20-years for Superior thefts
Steven Clark was sentenced by Montana Fourth Judicial District Court Judge John Larson to 20-years in a state correctional facility on April 10.
Commissioners sign intent letters for grants
Mineral County Disaster and Emergency Services Coordinator George Gupton was on hand at the Friday meeting of the county commissioners to provide the commissioners with a notice of intent for the Emergency Management Performance Grant and the Homeland Security Grant Program.
An in-depth look at the Route of the Olympian
The Route of the Olympian, a rail trail that will stretch from Taft to St. Regis in the west end of Mineral County, Montana, is getting closer to an opening date.
Mineral County Commissioners Briefs
April is distracted driving month
What is Distracted Driving?
FWP begins its annual monitoring of grizzly in Western parts of Montana
As part of an ongoing interagency program to monitor the population of grizzly bears in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem (NCDE), Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, the US Fish & Wildlife Service, the National Park Service, and Tribal wildlife managers will once again begin seasonal scientific capture operations in parts of western Montana this month.
Burn permits required starting May 1
On Wednesday, May 1, fire season officially begins and burn permits will be required for all outdoor burning in Mineral County. Burn permits are available from the Superior Ranger District by calling 822-3933 or by stopping by the District office at 209 West Riverside in Superior. There is no charge for the permit and it may be mailed to you upon your request. Please call early in the week if you would like to have your permit mailed out, so we’ll have time to get it to you by the weekend. Burn permits are issued by the Superior Ranger District as partners with local and state agencies. The State of Montana and local county government regulate outdoor burning on private land.
Physics goes flying
Plains High School science teacher Carl Benson demonstrates aviation physics to from left to right: Jessica Hansen, James Wade, Aaron Balantine and Ashley Holmes.
Physics class goes for a ride in the name of science
A science class from Plains High School received a real world demonstration of aviation physics from local pilot and businessman Randy Garrison on Tuesday.
Fireman's Ball
Jon Koepke, left and Don Benson, right, wait in line to serve Mexican food to attendees at the Annual Fireman's Ball held at the VFW on Saturday.
Local firefighters change hats for one evening of fun
Plains City Firefighters took the night off from protecting citizens from wayward blazes but were still hard at work on Saturday as the annual Fireman’s Ball took place at the VFW.
Canstruction teams looking for participants
Once again, the United Methodist Church of Plains and Paradise is inviting local businesses, services groups and neighboring churches to participate in a creative project to collect non-perishable food for the Plains Food Bank and have fun doing it.
Former police officer charged with two counts
Chad Edward Bache, a former reserve deputy for Sanders County and former Hot Springs police officer has been charged with two counts: one felony count of theft and one misdeamanor count of the unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.
Letters to the Editor - April 24, 2013
An update from Senator Jennifer Fielder
One of my major goals as a legislator is to find ways to ensure responsible management and access to our natural resources on the federally managed lands in Montana. We have the science and ability to strike a balance between protecting the environment, reducing catastrophic fire hazards, and harvesting renewable resources from the land. Achieving that balance will require a great deal of focus, but many something different needs to be done, and it will be well worth the effort.
Chamber talks about revitalization
THOMPSON FALLS – The Chamber of Commerce met on Friday to have an informative meeting on the opportunity of becoming a member in a program called the Montana Main Street program.
Spudfest raises money for loacl history museum
The Hot Springs Senior Center played host to the annual Spudfest on Sunday as a fundraiser for the LaRue-Hot Springs Museum. President of the LaRue-Hot Springs Museum Association ,Gail Patton, said the event raises money for the continued operation of the history museum just outside of the town.
Hot Springs school hosts talent
The talent of kids from Hot Springs Elementary School was on display Thursday as the local Parent Teacher Organization held a Family Fun Night carnival in the gym. Held twice a year, the event served as a means to celebrate and share the gifts of kids with an aptitude for performance.
Proposal to reduce number of voting precincts
County Clerk and Recorder Jennine Robbins and Elections Administrative Assistant Bobbi Christenson have put the fate of voting precinct boundaries in the hands of Sanders County Commissioners for consideration.
Turkey banquet
Senior Regional Director for Montana and Wyoming, Chris Fortune, addresses the crowd gathered at the banquet.
Turkey Banquet celebrates NWTF's 40th year
PLAINS – Supporters and members of the National Wild Turkey Federation flooded the fairground’s pavilion on Saturday for the 13th annual banquet and fundraiser.
Track and field teams show promise midway through the season
The Trotters track and field team continued their winning ways, taking first place at the Seeley Invitational on April 20 in Missoula. The girls dominated the competition with strong showings from multiple athletes across a wide array of events. Demonstrating the depth of the talent on the team, top finishes were scored in distance, sprint, throwing and jumping events.
Trotters softball
Catcher Alex Greene gets ready to grab the ball in the game against Ronan on Tuesday during one of their double headers.
Trotters hit the field and come up with a win
The Trotters softball team came away with mixed results from their last few games versus Ronan and Deer Lodge. The ladies played a double-header against both teams coming away with one win and three losses. The solid offense generated by the team kept them in the games but was not enough to come away with more wins.
Lady Hawks secure first win against Eureka
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks went in for a double header against Eureka last week and came up with their first win of the season.
Plains golf team shows up to play in home tourney
The Plains High School golf team came out strong in defense of their home turf on Saturday as they hosted the Plains Invitational. Teams from Thompson Falls, Ronan and Noxon showed up to challenge the Horsemen and Trotters on a sometimes rainy and chilly morning.
Plains golf
Dallas Burgess chips the ball onto the green on Saturday during the Plains Invitational. He finished the day with a score of 75.
Hot Springs Clinic grand opening
The Eastern Sanders county Hospital District Board cuts the ribbon during the grand opening of the Hot Springs Clinic.
Hot Springs Clinic holds grand opening
About 300 people attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and reception to celebrate the grand opening of the new medical clinic in Hot Springs on Wednesday. The clinic began providing care for patients a week prior to the event and was built largely with support from private donors across Sanders County.
Through the scope
Local hunter and Plains resident George Nass scopes a bear with his gun while out hunting in Sanders County.
Searching for a bear
Larry Kindrick scouts the wilderness looking for a black bear to harvest.
Bear Hunters
Brian Bosley and Aaron Miller plan their next strategic move during the bear hunt.
Searching for Bears
Brian Bosley scopes the mountainside to look for any signs of bears in the area.
Thawing snow
Sanders County begins to thaw out as the snow returns to creek waters. The warmer the weather, the bigger chance there is of spotting a bear because they become more active.
Outdoors: The hunt is on - a search for a black bear
Montana’s thick forests and abundant mountains host a home to the black bear, a somewhat elusive creature that is currently being hunted.
4-H Fashion
Sydney Jackson took first place in the fashion revue junior division for her blue apron. She received a trophy and a full scholarship to 4-H camp.
4-H'ers showcase their quilting and sewing skills
PLAINS – Eager 4H participants filled the Mountain West Clothing store downtown on Sunday for the annual Sanders County 4H Fashion Revue and Patchwork Parade.
4-H shooters place at state
Anna Dryden qualified for the Nationals 4-H Invitational Shooting Sports Tournament in Grand Island, Nebraska June 23-28! This honor comes to her after competing in 3 Position Sporter Air Rifle and taking first place in her age bracket at the Montana State Tournament in Bozeman. Her sister Mary also competed at Bozeman in Air Pistol and placed eighth in her age group. Shooters from all across the state competed in the event.
Sanders County 2012-2013 Third Quarter Honor Roll
Dixon
Sanders County Senior News
Engagement Announcement: Naomi Rachel Shaw and Matthew Lee Hitchcock
Lewis and Teresa Shaw of Plains, Montana are proud to announce the engagement of their daughter, Naomi Rachel Shaw to Matthew Lee Hitchcock, son of Lee and Shannon Hitchcock of Spokane, Washington. Matthew and Naomi will be married at Life Center North Church in Spokane on Saturday May 25th, 2013.
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Sanders County Court Report
Sanders County Justice Court week of 4/9 to 4/15/13
Mountain Cats Pounce
The Superior-Alberton Mountain Cats continued their run towards the state tournament with three duals against Loyola Sacred Heart, Valley Christian and St. Ignatius this week.
Tricon hosts health fair to raise employee awareness
Little Red Riding Hood 6
Superior Elementary School students put on a performance of "Red Riding Hood" on Friday as part of the Missoula Children's Theatre program. In the play, Red Riding Hood, played by Jonna Warnken, tells her family (pictured left and played by Kylie Plakke, Wyatt Haworth, Molly Patko and Clara Davis) she is old enough to travel the forest on her own.
Engagement Announcement: Bailey Rene Cox and Colin Patrick Donovan
Diana Cox along with Shaun and Patricia Donovan announce the engagement of their children Baily Rene Cox and Colin Patrick Donovan.
Mineral County Court Report
Mineral County Court Records from April 5 to April 19
Mineral County Community Calendar
Free classes at St. Regis School
Wednesday, April 17
Cemetery
Students from the University of Montana set up a magnatometer at the West End Cemetery on Sunday.
University students attempt to identify unmarked graves
In an effort to continue improving the West End Cemetery, Ellen Matz and the board contacted the University of Montana in Missoula two years ago with hopes that the university could aid them in identifying portions of the cemetery where what lies beneath the surface is unknown.
Obstacle course
First grader Aiden Rich maneuvers his way through the obstacle course, which the National Guard set up at the Plains High School on Wednesday, April 10.
A scramble through the course
PLAINS – The National Guard came to Plains High School on Wednesday donning an obstacle course for the Kindergarten through 12 grade students.
Gray wolf numbers released
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recently released its’ 2012 Annual Report for the Northern Rocky Mountain Gray Wolf population. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks estimate there are eight packs in Sanders County alone containing approximately 60 to 65 wolves.
Superior resident safe in wake of marathon explosions
Brooke Lawrence of Superior ran the Boston Marathon on Monday and finished with a time of 3:38:25.
Mayor Wood
Superior Mayor Mike Wood speaks during the Mayor's Day of Recognition for National Service.
Mayor Wood joins nation in honoring the efforts of volunteers
A large crowd of Mineral County residents gathered at the steps of the Mineral County Courthouse on April 9 to honor the countless number of volunteers as part of the first ever Mayor’s Day of Recognition for National Service.
Hot Springs clinic hosts grand opening
It has been eight years since the Eastern Sanders County Hospital Board recognized the need for a new clinic in Hot Springs. Today at 4 p.m. the new clinic will celebrate their grand opening with a reception and ribbon cutting ceremony. Owing in large part to private donations and a local fundraising effort; the new, modern clinic opened its doors earlier in the week to begin providing care to Hot Springs residents.
Red Riding Hood
Red Riding Hood and the Three Little Pigs brave the treacherous forest.
Thompson Falls thespians entertain with Red Riding Hood
THOMPSON FALLS- Around 200 residents of Thompson Falls came out to support the performance of “Red Riding Hood” put on by children ranging in age from six years to 17 years of age. Organized by the Missoula Children’s Theatre, the play featured about 60 kids from Thompson Falls schools, directed by MCT members Allie Kauling and Steven Thomas and accompanied by Rebecca Haag. Assistant directors Asher Evans, Whitney Micklon and Zack Bloom helped coordinate behind the scenes activity.
Peter Pan
Peter Pan takes out Captain Hook during the swordfight toward the end of the play. The two rivals duked it out throughout the play.
Plains-Paradise players perform Peter Pan
PARADISE – The Plains-Paradise players hit the stage with enthusiasm as the children of Dixon Elementary School filled the Paradise school gym on Thursday at 1 p.m.
Revett Mine provides update on Troy Mine
After a hazardous rock fall in December, crews in Lincoln County are persistantly working on the Troy mine, which employees 40 to 45 people from Sanders County.
Calvert's omnibus hearing rescheduled to May
THOMPSON FALLS – Nathan Lee William Calvert’s omnibus hearing was rescheduled to May 21 at 10 a.m. pending his mental evaluation.
ICC stresses parents to talk to teens about dangers of alcohol
April is Alcohol Awareness Month and the Montana Interagency Coordinating Council on State Prevention Programs (ICC) is highlighting the critical public health issue of underage drinking in America and to provide healthy solutions.
MCPAC concert
Jeffrey Grossman played piano while Katherine Dain sang during the MCPAC performance.
MCPAC hosts the Piatigorsky Foundation
In one of the final Mineral County Performing Arts Council events of the year at the Superior Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints on April 9, Soprano Katharine Dain and Pianist Jeffrey Grossman from the Piatigorsky Foundation played a selection of songs with a common theme – love, specifically how love can make one feel temporarily insane.
Red Riding Hood in Superior
Life is no picnic when you stray from the trail! Join RED RIDING HOOD and her friends on a forest adventure Friday, April 19th when Missoula Children’s Theatre (MCT) and over 50 local students present an original musical adaptation of this classic tale.
Frontier Medicine Better Health Partnership topic of upcoming Mineral County Commissioners meeting
The Frontier Medicine Better Health Partnership (FMBHP) will present information about its work to the Mineral County Commissioners Tuesday, April 23 at the St. Regis Community Center in St. Regis. The meeting will be held at 6 p.m.
Boomer Boys to rock Mineral County for fundraiser
The Rock N’ Roll music of the 50’s and 60’s comes to Mineral County courtesy of the Mineral County Medical Foundation at its spring fund-raiser on Saturday, April 20 at the Community Center in St. Regis.
Essential tips to prevent driving while distracted
What is Distracted Driving?
Letter to the Editor - April 17
To a large gathering of concerned residents in the courtroom last Thursday, Jennine Robbins and Bobbi Christensen from the Clerk & Recorder’s office, and the three commissioners informed the public of the proposal to consolidate several precincts, thereby, reducing the number of polling places.
An update from Rep. Pat Ingraham
On Monday April 15th, the State Administration Standing Committee which I chair heard two Senate bills, Senate Bill (SB) 408 and SB 405, both presented by Senator Alan Olson (Senate District 23) of Roundup. You might already be aware of these bills as they caused a great deal of raucous and media attention on the Senate floor on Friday, April 5th.
An update from Senator Jennifer Fielder
Tax Freedom Day: This year, national Tax Freedom Day is April 18. What’s that mean? According to the Tax Foundation, the average American taxpayer will pay an amount equal to 108 days of wages in 2013. In essence, all wages earned from Jan 1 to April 17 can be considered the government’s share of our annual earnings. April 18 is considered tax freedom day because it represents the day you get to start spending (or saving) all of your earnings, your way.
Smokejumpers
Smokejumpers with the U.S. Forest Service go through a pre-flight briefing before boarding a DC-3 in Missoula for a practice jump.
Smokejumpers train for upcoming fire season
Members of a unique fraternity gathered on Wednesday in Missoula at the headquarters of the smokejumpers to practice their habit of jumping out of airplanes into wildfires. Some smokejumpers, including Dan Helterline of Plains, were not in Missoula having been deployed to a fire in Virginia.
Beautification Days
Hannah Santa Cruz rakes the fallen leaves next to the rose hedge in Thompson Falls for Beautification Days.
Thompson Falls Beautification Days surpass expectations
THOMPSON FALLS – The town of Thompson Falls hosted their 11th annual Beautification Days, sprucing up the town and cleaning up different areas on April 11 through April 13.
Kindergarten Roundup
Kindergarten teacher Dana Diehl works with Chad McGonagle, 4, on his developmental screening where they went over colors, numbers, shapes, among other things.
Kindergarten Roundup brings tots into Plains School
PLAINS – Parents from around the area came to Kindergarten Roundup on Thursday, April 11 at the Plains School to screen the upcoming kindergarteners developmentally.
Basic wildland class prepares local firefighters
Firefighters from Plains, Paradise, Thompson Falls and Hot Springs gathered at the Department of Natural Resources and Conservation facility in Plains on Saturday to take a class on basic wildland firefighting techniques.
Plains continues winning
The Plains High School softball team racked up two more wins in a double-header against Eureka on April 12. The Trotters started with a strong showing in the first game but faced a challenge in the second match.
Lady Hawks gain experience
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks softball team hit the field on Saturday, April 13 and faced off with the coop team, Mission-Arlee-Charlo.
Golf teams to compete in Bigfork and Ronan
On what Coach Magera described as a “ugly, cold, rainy day,” the Plains High School golf team got a taste of what it is like to play on a professional course on April 11 in Bigfork.
All Sanders County teams compete in Thompson Falls Invitational
THOMPSON FALLS - The Plains High School girls track team won an impressive victory at the Thompson Falls Invitational track and field meet on Thursday finishing with 181 points.
4-H kids to participate in Fashion Revue and Patchwork Parade
PLAINS – The 4-H kids of Sanders County will be participating in the 4-H Fashion Revue and Patchwork Parade on Sunday, April 21.
Plains City Fire Department to host Fireman's Ball
The Veterans of Foreign Wars facility in Plains will play host to the annual Plains Fire Department Fireman’ Ball on Saturday April 20. The event serves as a fundraiser for the department.
Community dance
Aaron Balantine and Dallas Burgess sit at the front table and collect money for the community dance.
Dance raises money for cancer
The Plains High School Student Council responded to a challenge by their colleagues at Thompson Falls by hosting a community dance at the fairgrounds pavilion on Saturday.
Piatigorsky concert
Jeffrey Grossman accompanies Katharine Dain on the piano during the Piatigorsky Foundation hosted by the Sanders County Arts Council.
Sanders County Arts Council hosts Piatigorsky foundation
The harmonious sounds of classical music could be heard coming from the Plains United Methodist Church on Monday as the Sanders County Arts Council hosted the Piatigorsky Foundation artists, Katharine Dain and Jeffrey Grossman.
Plains Community Garden to sponsor hands-on workshop
On Monday, April 22, the Plains Community Garden will sponsor a workshop for all gardeners in the local area, and for anyone who wants to learn to garden. The hands-on workshop will be on seed starting, and everyone who attends will be able to take home plants as well as seed starts. Milton Pierce, the owner of The Potting Shed in St. Regis, will be the workshop leader. A tour of the garden will also be given. The workshop is free, and will be held at the Plains Community Garden, 505 West 5th Street, at 7:00 PM. If the weather is too cold, the meeting will move inside.
Sanders County Court Records
Sanders County Justice Court week of March 26 to April 8.
Sanders County Senior News
Lacey Eleanor Kulawinski
PLAINS – Lacey Eleanor Kulawinski was born April 4, 2013 at Clark Fork Valley Hospital in Plains. She weighed 8 pounds and 4 ounces. Parents are Ricki and Jake Kulawinski of Plains.
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Noxon Prom Royalty
ROYALTY (From left to right): Prom King Dustin Wolfe, Prom Queen Kaylin Robinson, Prom Princess Kathryn Chandler, and Prom Prince Cory Radcliffe.
Noxon celebrates Prom with glitz and glam
NOXON – The Noxon High School gym was redecorated into a wonderland of sorts as the Noxon kiddos attended Prom.
Plains Fire
J.C. McGee uses a drip torch to set a prescribed burn off Upper Lynch Creek Road.
Local firefighters set intentional fire on Upper Lynch Creek Road
Plains/Paradise Rural Fire Department and Plains City Fire Department members set an intentional fire off Upper Lynch Creek Road near the Plains Cemetery on Saturday. Using drip torches, firefighters burned off high grass and brush away from the edges of the cemetery and Upper Lynch Creek Road.
Superior long jumpers 4
Senior Adam Kay finished the long jump event in sixth place at Thompson Falls.
Superior long jumpers 3
Superior junior Chandra Plakke competed in the long jump event for the Bobcats on Thursday.
Superior long jumpers 2
Fellow senior Kinzie Cooper took fifth place at the Thompson Falls Invitational on Thursday.
Superior long jumpers 1
Superior senior Nicole Stroot dominated the long jump, taking first place.
Sueprior-Alberton continues to dominate
The Superior-Alberton tennis team continued to roll through the competition on Thursday when they played host to St. Ignatius.
Historic Superior
Members of the Superior Rod and Gun Club, including A.P. Johnshon, William Fletcher, Sam Bouchard, Anton Tamietti, Berna McCartney, "Long Harry" Echardt and Paul Guimont, watch one of the elk transported from Yellowstone to what is now the Sloway area of Superior. The elk arrived in Mineral County on March 5, 1913, with the club providing $25 for transportation.
Historic Superior received stock of Yellowstone elk
The Great Fire of 1910, also known as the Big Blowup, had a tremendous impact on what would later be known as Mineral County – the towns of De Borgia, Henderson, Taft and Haugan were completely destroyed in what is believed to be the largest fire in United States history.
Mineral Co Tennis 6
Superior senior Hillary Stevens dominated in all three of her matches with partner Myranda Kuhl.
Mineral Co Tennis 5
Myranda Kuhl elevates for a strike.
Mineral Co Tennis 4
Emma Wooldridge watches a backhand winner during her match on Thursday.
Mineral Co Tennis 3
Emma Wooldridge
Mineral Co Tennis 2
Alberton's Shawnda Rohrbach played three solid matches this week for the Mountain Cats. Rohrbach started this week with two straight-set victories over opponents from Loyola and Valley Christian.
Mineral Co Tennis 1
Alberton senior Emma Wooldridge remained undefeated after a convincing 6-0, 6-0 victory on Thursday.
Superior talent 4
First grader Lanie Crabb plays "Merrily We Roll On" during the elementary school talent show. The talent show took place at the Superior Elementary School gym and was well attended. Students from first to sixth grade showcased a variety of talents during the fun filled evening.
Superior talent 3
Superior Elementary School second graders Taylor, Ella and Katie jump rope during the Superior Elementary Talent Show.
Superior talent 2
Superior Elementary second grader Payton Milender showcases her skill at the hula hoop during the talent show on Tuesday.
Superior talent 1
Third graders Zoey, Alexia and Penny perform the song "Skyscraper."
Superior Town Council awards town office bid
At a regular meeting of the Superior Town Council on April 9, council members unanimously awarded Patterson Construction Inc. with the bid for the Town Offices.
Mineral County Court Report
Mineral County Court Records from April 5 to April 12
Mineral County Community Calendar
American Legion Post #13 St. Regis
Tricon Health Fiar
Free blood pressure tests were administered by nurses from Mineral Community Hospital.
Tricon hosts health fair to raise awareness
After being on an insurance committee at the end of the year, Stacy Conrow-Ververis of Tricon Timber in St. Regis noticed a lack of preventative care which resulted in a “spike” in the insurance rates.
Plains track & field 6
Hailey Philips clears the hurdle. She finished second in the event.
Plains track & field 5
Hailey Philips lands in the sand pit at the end of the long jump competition. She placed second in the event.
Plains track & field - Photo by Colin Murphey
Ashley Holmes and Hailey Philips run neck and neck in the 100 meter hurdles. They finished first and second respectively.
Plains track & field 3
Competitors from Noxon, Thompson Falls and Plains run in the boys 110 meter hurdles at the Thompson Falls Invitational.
Plains track & field 2
Russell Kujala was one in front of the pack on his way to winning the 800 meter distance race.
Plains track & field 1
Nicole Rehbein competes for the Trotters at the Thompson Falls Invitational on Thursday.
Wednesday, April 10
Forest Service ignites Swamp Creek
Members of the local National Forest Service fire crew conducted a prescribed, controlled burn near Swamp Creek south of Plains on Tuesday.
Swamp Creek Burn 5
Brandon Firestone, member of the local National Forest Service fire crew, works on a prescribed, controlled burn in the Swamp Creek area.
Swamp Creek Burn 4
A member of the local National Forest Service fire crew works at the controlled burn at Swamp Creek.
Smokey Light - Photo by Colin Murphey
Sunbeams shine through smoke billowing from a prescribed fire set by a Forest Service burn crew near Swamp Creek on Tuesday. The effort was part of the Forest Service fire management plan.
Swamp Creek Burn 2
A firefighter uses a drip torch at the Swamp Creek controlled burn.
Swamp Creek burn 1
Brandon Firestone uses a drip torch to set a prescribed burn near Swamp Creek on Tuesday.
MRL improvement
Fred Moodry operates equipment on the railroad tracks near the intersection of Hubbard Street.
MRL improves railroad tracks
Residents of Plains had to deal with the inconvenience of intersection closures at three locations while railroad workers repaired ties on the section of line that runs through the town Monday through Wednesday. According to gang foreman Dave Guptill, the three intersections were closed for about eight to ten hours a day per section as work was conducted.
Calvert to appear in court Tuesday
THOMPSON FALLS – Nathan Lee William Calvert will be appearing for his rescheduled omnibus hearing on April 16 at 10 a.m.
Bear season to open April 15
Black bear hunting season is set to open on April 15 in FWP Region 1 that includes Sanders County. Spring black bear hunters must purchase their licenses before April 14.
A prescription for rejuvenation
Prior to the settlement of Mineral County, the forest would naturally burn every five to ten years – nature’s form of spring cleaning.
Mayo Gulch Burn 6
Bob Derleth supervises the controlled burn in Mayo Gulch on Thursday.
Mayo Gulch Burn 5
The drip torch uses a combination of gasoline and diesel fuel to maintain a flame.
Mayo Gulch Burn 4
A member of the Superior Ranger District Firefighting Team prepares to use a drip torch on the next area of the prescribed burn.
Mayo Gulch Burn 3
Members of the superior Ranger District Firefighting Team work on a burn at Mayo Gulch.
Mayo Gulch Burn 2
Superior Ranger District Fire Management Officer Bob Derleth demonstrates how a drip torch operates. The torches are used by the Ranger District to conduct prescribed burns.
Mayo Gulch Burn 1
An ATV was used to survey the burn area.
DUI Drug Treatment
Wally Schrock hugs Deputy Jim Balenger, who arrested him over a year ago, at his graduation from the Mineral County DUI/Drug Treatment Court on Wednesday.
Mineral County DUI/Drug court to shut its doors in May
Since 2006, 90 people have gone through the Mineral County DUI/Drug Court Program with 54 of them graduating to what one graduate called “a second chance at life.”
Commissioners send letter in support of proposed Medicaid expansion
On Thurs., April 4, the Mineral County Commissioners finalized a letter to Representative Pat Ingraham expressing their support for the proposed federal Medicaid expansion.
VIC
Supporters of the St. Regis Visitor Information Center are still waiting for an answer regarding the lack of funding for the center.
VIC supporters await state response
Traditionally the St. Regis Visitor Information Center opens in May however after being passed up from state funding Glenn Koepke of the St. Regis Community Council told county commissioners he has “no clue” how the center will open.
SCCDC role for Hot Springs Clinic Project complete
THOMPSON FALLS – Jim Rexhouse, Executive Director of the Sanders County Community Development Corporation, announced today that SCCDC’s project management responsibilities for the Hot Springs Clinic Project are essentially complete, with only final close-out activities remaining.
Water compact update
Good news:
Public reminded to secure attractants - bears are out
FWP is reminding people that with bears emerging from their dens it’s time to put away any attractants that might be out.
An update from Rep. Nick Schwaderer
Unless we hit unexpected issues or hiccups in the road, our final legislative day (day 90) should land April 27, where the legislature will make a motion for “Sine Die” and we will convene not to meet again until 2015 unless there is a special session.
Letters to the Editor - April 10, 2013
The phrase “procedural due process” refers to the aspects of the Due Process Claus that apply to the procedure of arresting and trying persons who have been accused of crimes and to any other government action that deprives an individual of life, liberty, or property. Procedural due process limits the exercise of power by the state and federal governments by requiring that they follow certain procedures in criminal and civil matters. In cases where an individual has claimed a violation of due process rights, courts must determine whether a citizen is being deprived of “life, liberty, or property,” and what procedural protections are “due” to that individual.
A garden plan by Green Thumb
Visualize? The best-ever BLT sandwich with your own wonderfully tasty heirloom tomato slices, zucchini sizzling on the grill, a stroll through garden paths overhung with hundreds of bright green peas, a bean pole trellis abounding with blooms and crunchy beans.
Chaos staged to sop the vote
In a desperate attempt to keep two ballot referendums from reaching the people of Montana, democrat senators staged unprecedented chaos at the state capitol on Friday. After an initial plot to disrupt proceedings failed, they resorted to mob rule -- yelling, ranting, raving, and slamming coffee mugs on their desks. They incited their allies in the audience, who in turn began hanging over the balcony rails to scream and stomp and jeer. They did everything, just short of riot, to disrupt the legislative process. It was unbelievable.
Lady Hawks and Trotters face off
The Plains High School softball team got off to a solid start on Tuesday against the Lady Hawks of Thompson Falls winning the season opener 15 to zero.
Rival Softball 8
The Plains catcher focuses on the ball while playing against Thompson Falls.
Rival Softball 7
The Plains Trotters gather for a motivational huddle before taking the field against Thompson Falls.
Rival Softball 6
The catcher from Thompson Falls makes a throw.
Rival Softabll 5
The Lady Hawks pitcher winds up.
Rival Softball 4
Erica Sorlie connects with the ball for the Thompson Falls Lady Hawks. Thompson lost to Plains after 5 innings.
Rival Softball 3
A Lady Hawk beats the throw to take first base.
Rival softball 2
A Lady Hawk catches the ball to get the out in the game against the Trotters.
Rival Softball 1
The Lady Hawks gather around to hear the coach's strategy.
Golf season starts with first tournaments
The Plains/Hot Springs golf team is preparing for the first full team tournament in Bigfork on April 11. The tournament will be the first time Coach Magera will have his entire team on the course.
JH Track
Students from all across Sanders County competed in a Junior High School track and field meet at Plains High School. Teams competed in events ranging from sprinting, to relay races, to the high jump.
Sanders County track teams to be at Thompson Falls Invitational
NOXON - The Red Devil Track and Field team had a week off but will compete at the Thompson Falls Invitational on Thursday at noon.
Ace pitcher helps Trotters get first win of season
When it comes to how she treats batters at the plate, Aspen Rude lives up to her name. Off the mound, Aspen is a perfectly nice Plains High School senior. When she steps onto the softball diamond, things change.
Aspen Rude
Aspen Rude pitches a curveball to a Thompson Falls batter during the season opener for the Trotters.
Kimberly Curry
Plains second grader, Kimberly Curry, competed at the Montana State Championship for gymnastics.
Plains gymnast competes at state
Plains second grader, Kimberly Curry recently competed with 16 other qualifying teammates from Flathead Gymnastics Academy in the Montana State Championships held in Bozeman at the end of March. The State Championship Meet is the final meet of the season for all but a few higher level gymnasts who will compete in the Regional Junior Olympic Competition later this month held in Kent, Washington.
SCRCC holds biennial meeting in Plains
The Sanders County Republican Central Committee held it’s biennial meeting in Plains at the Grange on Saturday. The meeting, held once every two years, served as a means of updating local Republicans on party affairs, holding elections and promoting the GOP platform and ideas. Chaired by Katy French, the event began with the ceremonial Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer at which point the convention was called to order.
Thompson Falls to beautify town with help of community
THOMPSON FALLS – The town of Thompson Falls will be busy sprucing up lawns, picking up junk vehicle pickups and working on surrounding trails in an effort to beautify the town.
Sanders County Senior News
Thompson Falls
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
McKenzie Rose Smith
PLAINS – McKenzie Rose Smith was born March 28 at Clark Fork Valley Hospital in Plains. She weighed 8 pounds and 2 ? ounces. Parents are Alicia and Mark Smith of Trout Creek.
Owen Elijah Lane
PLAINS - Owen Elijah Lane was born March 18 at Clark Fork Valley Hospital in Plains. She weighed 7 pounds and 1 ounce. Parents are Jordan Farmer and Justin Lane of Plains.
Plains-Paradise Players to host last play in Paradise
PARADISE – Marking the end of a long era of Paradise School plays, the Plains-Paradise Players will be performing their last performance of Peter Pan at the Paradise School.
Two-vehicle crash on Highway 200 and Highway 135
A two-vehicle accident occurred at the intersection of Highway 200 and Highway 135 near Paradise around 5 p.m. on Monday. A semi-trailer collided with a late model, light blue Subaru wagon while attempting a left turn heading south on Highway 135.
Accident on Hwy 135
The Plains-Paradies Rural Fire Department responded to the accident, and examined the scene.
Starting the season with aces
The Superior/Alberton tennis squad came out in their opening week of match play firing on all cylinders.
Tennis 5
Myranda Kuhl serves it up against Loyola Sacred Heart Friday.
Tennis 4
Myranda Kuhl hits a backhand against Loyola Sacred Heart Friday.
Tennis 3
Although the doubles squad found themselves behind early, communication proved essential in the comeback.
Tennis 2
Hillary Stevens had a strong presence this week, including a come from behind victory against Loyola Sacred Heart on Friday.
Tennis 1
Hillary Stevens hits a forehand winner against Loyola.
Mineral County Community Calendar
American Legion
Mineral County Court Report
Mineral County Court Records from March 29 to April 5
Wednesday, April 3
Rural Fire Department puts Plains under a torch
PLAINS – The temperature of the radiant heat raged 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit as the Plains-Paradise Rural Fire Department set properties around town up in flames.
A mad dash to the finish
Eggs of every color imaginable dotted the playground of the school in Paradise and the Fred Young Park in Plains, awaiting the arrival of children tasked with their retrieval.
Reading carnival fun
Kindergartener Nick McAllister goes up for a shot during the Hot Springs Reading Carnival Thursday.
Reading carnival hosts fun
HOT SPRINGS - Hot Springs High School students hosted a carnival on Thursday to reward elementary student readers with an array of events from bowling to face painting to pie throwing. The event, intended to foster an appreciation of reading, created a festive setting for kids to celebrate their achievements and have a little fun on the side.
Superior art class
Geneva Plakke works on an art project for Frankie Kelly's art class.
Superior students get a dose of creativity
For former Superior student Alychia Scofield, Frankie Kelly’s art class was an escape – it was a safe haven of creativity in a world filled with standardized testing and structured lessons.
Large predator resolution signed
On Friday, Mineral County Commissioners voted unanimously to adopt resolution 3.29.13, which details the counties policy towards large predators.
County informed it is subject to retroactive SRS sequester
Rural counties throughout the nation that typically received funds as part of the Secure Rural Schools program, including Mineral County, were recently informed by the United States Department of Agriculture funds received from the 2012 fiscal year would be retroactively subjected to sequestration.
Clark accepts plea bargain for string of Superior area thefts
Steven Clark’s trial in the Mineral County District Court will not take place as the result of a plea bargain agreement between Clark and Mineral County District Attorney Marcia Boris.
Superior to regonize national service
[Mineral County, MT]– On April 9, Mayor Mike Wood of Superior will join more than 600 mayors across the country for the first-ever Mayors Day of Recognition for National Service, a nationwide bipartisan effort to highlight the impact of national service in tackling city problems.
MCPAC hosts Piatigorsky group
THE PIATIGORSKY FOUNDATION FOCUSES ON ARTISTIC EXCELLENCE AND PUBLIC OUTREACH
Easter egg hunt SC - 7
An anxious participant in the hunt peeks into her egg to see what goodies await her.
Easter egg hunt SC - 6
Winners at the Plains Easter egg hunt from left to right: Kallen Burrows, Maddy Blood, Emery Josephson, and Wyatt Josephson.
Easter egg hunt SC - 5
A mad dash to the finish: Shay Nelson runs past Greg Tatum barely missing him as the battle began to collect the most eggs. The annual Easter egg hunt was located at the Fred Young Park in Plains and put on by the Plains Lions Club.
Easter egg hunt SC - 4
Django Oakcedar looks carefully for eggs at the Plains Easter egg hunt.
Easter egg hunt SC 3
Cooper Spurr plays on the swings after the Paradise Easter egg hunt.
Easter egg hunt SC - 2
McKenzie Rich added another egg to her collection during the Paradise Easter egg hunt.
Easter egg hunt SC - 1
Nick McAllister awaits the start of the Paradise Easter egg hunt with pail in hand.
Plains water system gets full upgrade
PLAINS – The town of Plains is hard at work updating water mains and the water system, adding links between pipes so the water is able to circle through town.
Water improvement
Muster Construction, a Thompson Falls based company, flattens the road on Hubbard Street after adding a link into the town water system.
Walleye public comment extended into April
Montana Senator Jennifer Fielder weighed in on the debate over the proposal to suppress the walleye population in Noxon Reservoir during a visit to the Plains annual trade fair at Plains High School on Saturday.
Crime Stoppers wants your help
HOT SPRINGS - On December 22 at 2:08 a.m. law enforcement and Hot Springs Fire Department responded to a fire at Enviro-Tire located at 758 West Road outside of Hot Springs. The investigation revealed this to be an arson caused fire. It is believed that at least two persons trespassed on the property and used an accelerant to start the fire. Crime Stoppers is looking for any information leading to the arrests of the person(s) responsible fore the fire.
An update from Rep. Nicholas Schwaderer
We are getting towards the last days of the session, four weeks left until we conclude the people’s business and do not convene again until 2015 unless a special session is called.
An update from Rep. Pat Ingraham
On Monday, March 25th, a date requested by the Governor, as a member of the House Human Services Committee, I and other members of the committee heard House Bill 590 – Medicaid Expansion, a big issue for the Legislature. On Wednesday, March 27th, the House Human Services Committee took executive action on HB 590 and on a partisan vote, Republicans opposing and Democrats supporting, HB 590, the Medicaid expansion bill, failed to pass the committee.
Support for SB 265 - delay the water compact
Some say it will utterly destroy farming, ranching, lives, and land values in northwestern Montana. Others argue there’s nothing to fear in the massive Salish-Kootenai water rights compact. Both sides agree the economic implications are perhaps the largest we will see in our lifetime. But there is a strong disagreement over whether those outcomes will be good or bad.
Plains Town Council addresses mail-in ballots and pool
Plains Town Council met for their monthly meeting on Monday at the Town Hall. About 12 members of the public were in attendance. After hearing an update from Plains Volunteer Fire Department member Kyle Johnson on recent activities and a notice about the upcoming Fireman’s Ball on April 20, the council moved on to old business.
Commissioners cover elections and road management
THOMPSON FALLS - Sanders County Commissioners met on Tuesday with Forest Service representatives and members of the Sanders County Elections Office to discuss a variety of issues concerning the community. Commissioners Tony Cox, Carol Brooker and Glen Magera convened for about two hours regarding road management responsibilities and the redistricting of Sanders County voting precincts.
Art on the walls
Attendees at the second quarter Art on the Walls show meander down the hallway at the Clark Fork Valley Hospital looking at the variety of paintings on display.
Art on the Walls shares art and music at CFVH
PLAINS – Art filled the white walls while music softly drifted down the hallways of the Clark Fork Valley Hospital on Thursday, March 28.
Tri-state Veterans Stand Down
Volunteers help prepare for the Veterans Standown. From left to right: Glenn Hansen, Bob Biegler, Gale Styger and LeAnn Overman.
Tri-State Veterans standown awaits starting date
PLAINS – With three barns at the fairgrounds lined on both sides with military surplus gear, featuring everything from bed sheets, to heavy-duty sleeping bags and military boots, the Tri-State Veterans Standown is ready for kick-off.
Sanders County track teams compete at Ronan
After only one meet, the Plains High School track and field team has put up some impressive numbers. Ben Gorham had his longest toss ever in the shot put with a throw of 45 feet, four inches. Gorham accomplished the feat under less than desirable conditions, throwing in a downpour at the meet in Ronan.
Thompson Falls softball
Junior and first year pitcher for the Lady Hawks Erica Sorlie winds up for a pitch aimed at a Loyola player during the game.
Lady Hawks gain experience in opening game
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawk softball opened up their season against Loyola on Tuesday, March 26 – swinging into the season and gaining some experience.
Fire training 5
Plains-Paradise Rural Firefighter Jim Henry keeps an eye on a controlled grass fire at a Plains residence on Upper Lynch Creek Road.
Fire training 4
Firefighters look through the rising blaze as Marlon Cooper shares his plan of action with some newer crew members.
Fire training 3
Kevin Osburn walks through the torched grass on the corner of Kruger and Upper Lynch Creek Road.
Fire training 2
Firefighter Pat Erving helps extinguish the flames of a controlled fire set on Friday on Upper Lynch Creek Road.
Fire training 1
Mike Bowen oversees the burn, ensuring the fire remains in the perimeter created for it with the use of wet lines.
Sixth grade science project
From left to right: Connor Sampson, Alex Thomas and Haley Josephson prepare to test their gravity car.
Sixth grade science project blends many fields of study
PLAINS - Sixth grade students got out of the classroom and into the Plains High School gym lobby to try out their designs for a self-propelled car, a project that combined physics, engineering and structural design.
Plains Trade Fair
The Plains High School gym was filled with vendors on Saturday as the Plains-Paradise Chamber of Commerce hosted their 18th annual Trade Fair.
The 18th annual Trade Fair dubbed successful
PLAINS – The Plains-Paradise Chamber of Commerce hosted their 18th annual Trade Fair on Saturday, opening the doors of the Plains High School gymnasium to businesses from throughout Sanders County and beyond.
Plains Community Garden hosts first meeting
PLAINS – On a bright, sunny Monday evening, the Plains Community Garden met on March 25 for an informational meeting regarding the garden.
Richard Jerry "Dick" Cole
Richard Jerry “Dick” Cole left us February 13th to be with our heavenly Father. He joins the love of his life, Helen Brackett Cole, who preceded him in death in February 2011.
Sanders County Senior News
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Marion Reinhart
Marion Reinhart, 85, of Thompson Falls, passed away on Saturday, March 23.
Charles Leeland Christiansen
Charles Leeland Christiansen, at age 43 has passed away at CFVH on March 25th. Services are being held on April 3rd at noon at the Plains Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Plains students clean up
From left to right: Kassidy Kinzie, Haley Josephson, Connor Sampson and Alex Thomas picked up trash along Highway 200 during an effort to help keep Plains beautiful.
Plains students undergo effor to help the environment
PLAINS - Students from Plains were on a beautification mission on Thursday, combing the edges of Highway 200 and other streets around the school and Clark Fork Valley Hospital.
Battle on invasive watermilfoil in Noxon shows success
In 2012, the Sanders County Aquatic Invasive Plants Task Force waged the largest battle thus far in the war against two species of non-native weeds in the Noxon and Cabinet Gorge reservoirs -- Eurasian watermilfoil (EWM) and curlyleaf pondweed (CLP). Noxon Rapids Reservoir contains the uppermost known infestations of EWM on the Clark Fork River drainage.
Search and rescue
Sheriff Tom Rummel talks with the Sanders County Search and Rescue Crew on Wednesday, March 27.
Search and rescue search for runaway teen
PLAINS - The Sanders County Search and Rescue team put on a search to look for a 17 year-old male up on River Road West on Wednesday, March 27.
Alberton/Superior tennis prepare for season
Spring sports are in full swing and although several of the Superior/Alberton High School Tennis team were away competing in the state BPA competition, Head Coach Rick Berreth began preparing his team for the upcoming season.
Walleye Fishing
Paul Rossignol proudly holds up one of the several walleye he caught on the Noxon Reservoir.
Fishing Through the Fog
There are few friendships among men more sacred than the “fishing buddies.” Like all friendships, it is a bond forged from the passage of time together. Most friendships develop from time spent together during an activity or social function or a shared class in college: doing something. Fishing buddies develop from doing nothing. That is what most fishing consists of, sitting in a boat or on the shoreline doing absolutely nothing but waiting for a fish to make a bad decision.
Easter Egg Hunt 4
Kids run through the park, picking up Easter Eggs as they go.
Easter Egg Hunt 3
Children from throughout Mineral County gathered at Eva Horning Park in Superior to participate in an Easter Egg hunt put on my MC Search and Rescue.
Easter Egg Hunt 2
Kids of all ages enjoyed the hunt at Eva Horning Park Saturday.
Mineral County Court Report
Mineral County Court Records from March 21 to March 29
Lieutenant Colonel Robert "Bob" E. Ruthford
Lieutenant Colonel Robert “Bob” E. Ruthford, 88, died of natural causes on Thursday March 28, 2013 in Superior, MT. He passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, friends and wife of 63 years, Doris Ruthford (Mencel). Lt. Col. Ruthford was born on March 28, 1925 to the late Scaffy and Arba Ruthford in Chicago, IL, where as a young boy he was drawn to airplanes, always taking time to watch as they flew overhead. As he grew older, his passion for aviation led Lt. Col. Ruthford to enroll in the Army Air Corp. Academy in Tampa Bay, FL at the young age of 17. Upon completion of flight school in 1944, Lt. Col. Ruthford was held in high regard for his accomplishments, graduating in the top of his class and commissioned as a 2nd Lt. in the US Army Air Force. By the age of 19, he proudly served his country on his first assignment as crew commander and pilot of the B-17, and to follow in the Korean War piloted the P-51 Mustang. Lt. Col Ruthford honored his duty in the Air Force for 29 years, serving in WWII, Korean and Vietnam Wars.
Death Notice: Doyle Prince
Doyle Prince, Nampa ID, passed away of natural causes March 25, 2013 in Meridian ID.
Mineral County Community Calendar
American Legion Post #13 St. Regis
Zylawy Brothers show 3
The brothers sang a number of original tunes from their album, "Where We Belong," as well as a variety of cover songs ranging in genre from folk to rock and roll.
Zylawy Brothers Show 2
The brothers picked up where they left off on Sunday with the trio blending their instruments and harmonies perfectly.
Zylawy Brothers show 1
The Zylawy Brothers showed no signs of their long break in playing music together and the band quickly got in sync both on vocals and their instruments to give the audience at River Edge Resort a show to remember.
