Wednesday, January 30
St. Regis School District awarded priority school status in federal program
Federal grant award of $29,978.00 to support career and college readiness during the 2012/2013 school year
Superior natives make the deans list at University Montana Western
The University of Montana Western announced its Fall 2012 Dean’s List, which includes local residents currently studying at the institution in Dillon, Mont. The Dean’s List includes students achieving a 3.33 Grade Point Average (GPA) or better.
Mineral County court report
Mineral County Court Records from January 18 to January 25
Mineral County Community Calendar
Free classes at St. Regis School
Bobcat wrestlers prep for divisionals
This weekend the Superior Bobcat wrestling team will head to Thompson Falls to compete in the Western B/C Divisional Tournament.
Panthers continue to fight hard
The Alberton Lady Panther basketball squad lost two hard fought conference games last week against Lincoln and Seeley.
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St. Regis sophomore Andrew Managhan elevates to hit a perimeter shot during Friday's home game.
Tiger basketball continues to build a foundation for future
On Friday night the St. Regis boy’s basketball squad played what Head Coach Byron Quinlan called “three tough quarters” of basketball against a “solid” Noxon team.
st. regis tigers basketball
Adrianna Jones weaves through the defense on her way to the basket.
St. Regis Lady Tigers step up and capture the moment
St. Regis Lady Tiger Head Coach Damian Droessler talked to his squad about capturing the moment when you are called to step up.
superior bobcat basketball
Jarrod Tippens blocks a shot attempt on Thursday.
Disrupt and Destroy
Early in the season the Thompson Falls Bluehawks hosted and beat the Superior Bobcats. This week, Thompson Falls travelled to Superior and on their home turf the Bobcats came out strong on defense and set the pace early. “We knew that we had to play a great game as the Bluehawks are a class B team who had defeated us earlier in the year,” Bobcat Head Coach Chris Toivonen said. “It was great to see the kids come out with outstanding intensity and build an early lead.” According to Coach Toivonen, everything started with the Bobcat defense – with Zach Benda, Clint Voll and Billy Smith combining for 15-steals. The aggressive defense yielded plenty of offensive opportunities for the Bobcats and big men Clint Voll and Jarrod Tippens dominated the boards. The Bluehawks could not find an answer defensively for Voll and Tippens and the Bobcats capitalized on it. “Voll had a great all around game as he also led the team in rebounds and dished out five assists, tied with Billy Smith for the team lead,” Coach Toivonen said. “Tippens played a good defensive game as well, notching a couple blocked shots and three steals.” Coach Toivonen also mentioned the defensive efforts of Adam Kay and Tucker Smith who “applied great ball pressure, which is key to making a press work properly.” The Bobcats cruised to a victory over the Bluehawks and on Saturday faced off with another team from Sanders County, Hot Springs, at home. “The Savage Heat are an experienced team with lots of talented players,” Coach Toivonen said. “Our kids played a great game, once again bolting to a halftime lead.” Defense was once again key for the Bobcats, who once again utilized a press at times to disrupt Hot Springs on offense and generate offensive opportunities of their own. In the third quarter, Hot Springs jumped back into things and cut the Bobcat lead down to six before Tippens and Tucker Smith nailed back to back three-pointers to get the game solidly in control. “For the game, the duo shot a sizzling six of ten from beyond the arc,” Coach Toivonen said. “Tippens delivered a great all around game.” Tippens had a night for the highlight real, grabbing 30-points, seven rebounds and three steals. “Clint Voll and Adam Kay did a great job passing the ball as they combined for ten assists,” Coach Toivonen said. “Billy Smith and Zach Benda were outstanding defensively, making hustle plays throughout the game.” The Bobcats finished off Hot Springs with ease and will face off against Charlo and Two Eagle River this week as they approach tournament time. “As a group, I thought the kids had a great week,” Coach Toivonen said. “But, as we all know in sports, it truly comes down to what have you done lately, so we need to gear it up again this week and continue to improve.”
St. Regis council looks toward future
At the January meeting of the St. Regis Community Council, it was reported the Christmas Bazaar was “another success.”
Chamber discusses upcoming rail run
Jennifer Straughn from the Trail radio station was on hand at the January meeting of the Mineral County Chamber of Commerce to discuss the 2013 Inaugural Trail Rail Run through Mineral County.
Mineral County Commissioners Briefs
The following briefs are from the official minutes of the Jan. 23 meeting of the Mineral County Commissioners meeting.
saxophobia 5
Three of Verdi's saxophones.
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Verdi showcases a saxophone made to sound like an English Horn.
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Verdi plays on the world's smallest saxophone.
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The Alberton High School Marching Band joined Rob Verdi on stage at the Superior Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Saxophobia 1
Saxophonist Rob Verdi performed his show "Saxophobia" in Superior on Jan. 22. During the show Verdi was joined by the Alberton marching band and played a duet with Alberton junior Ryan Vicek.
Superior school board levy fails to pass by large margin
The votes are in and the proposed mill levy increase by the Superior School District failed to pass by a large margin.
grant
Ken Atwood of the DES is given a tour of the fire hall by Superior Volunteer Fire Chief John Woodland.
SVFD receives grant to install back-up generator at fire hall
Representatives from Montana Disaster and Emergency Services where at the Superior Volunteer Fire Department fire hall on Thurs. to officially award Chief John Woodland with a Hazard Mitigation Program Grant.
Noxon to host divisionals
NOXON – The Red Devil wrestlers competed at the Darby tournament on Saturday and are looking good for the divisional tournament taking place this weekend.
Sanders County Court Records
Sanders County Justice Court week of 1/11 to 1/18 and 1/21 to 1/25
Bluehawks next step: Divisionals
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawk wrestlers were unable to make it to the Darby wrestling tournament this weekend due to too many wrestlers who are out sick.
Plains-Hot Springs wrestles at Darby
The Savage Horsemen wrestling team traveled to Darby this past weekend for the annual Darby/Corvallis Invitational. Due to illness the field of teams was down a couple this year to seven. Plains/Hot Springs placed 4th (and also placed 4th at the Ted Kato in T-Falls) overall in team standings and medaled five athletes.
Bluehawks fall to Superior, Troy
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawks traveled to Superior on Thursday to take on the Bobcats in a nonconference game.
Horsemen basketball
Senior Dallas Burgess keeps the ball from a Eureka player at Saturday night's game at home.
Horsemen get a win over Eureka Lions at home
PLAINS - The Horsmen basketball team has proven itself to be a scrapper squad with the win and almost-win this past weekend, and more tough games are coming their way.
Savage heat basketball
Pavlo Zahora fires off a shot from down low in Superior on Saturday. The Savage Heat were defeated by the Bobcats, 51-67.
Savage Heat fall to foes over weekend games
HOT SPRINGS - The Savage Heat had a tough weekend on the court as they faced and were defeated by both Seeley-Swan and Superior, and one of those games was a loss by just one basket.
lady devils basketball
McKenna Krueger takes the ball down the court during the game against St. Regis.
Lady Devils battle it out on the court
NOXON – The Lady Devils fell to St. Regis on Friday during a District 14-C matchup.
lady hawk basketball
Sophomore Logan Beckman battles some Lady Cats on the court on Friday.
Red Devils keep bringing wins
NOXON – The Red Devils had another successful week, bringing them to 6-3 in conference play and 11-3 overall.
Red Devils
Junior Red Devil Tanner Tammaro gets ready to shoot the ball during the game against St. Regis.
Lady Hawks beat Superior, Troy
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks secured two wins over the week against Superior and Troy.
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
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Jason Helvey rides his horse Aspen through the course. Helvey did not place in the money at Whitefish but plans to compete again at Sandpoint on Feb. 16.
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Trout Creek locals Maggie Epperson and Jason Helvey competed at the Whitefish World Championship Skijouring competition.
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Maggie Epperson of Trout Creek pulls her skier through the skijouring course at Whitefish over the weekend.
Sanders County Senior News
Dixon
Minne Roosma
Minne Roosma
Daniel Joseph LaPointe
Daniel Joseph LaPointe passed away on Monday, January 21, 2013 at the age of 68. He was born March 13, 1944 to Francis Peter LaPointe and Mary Tracy McAtee LaPointe in Missoula, MT. His childhood was spent enjoying the outdoors around Plains. He attended grade school in Plains and graduated from Plains High School.
4H kicks off annual sale
SANDERS COUNTY - The Sanders County 4-H clubs are kicking off their first county-wide activity of the 4-H year, selling fruit and flower bulbs to the community in hopes of raising money for the group.
Bowl-N-Blast
Joe Bache bowls his best at the bowling portion of the second annual Bowl-N-Blast for the Plains Trap Club on Saturday. Bache's team took third place overall, out of 14 teams.
Plains Trap Club holds Bowl-N-Blast
PLAINS - The second annual Bowl-n-Blast event took place on Saturday at the Plains Trap Club and VFW that hosted a good time for participants.
From your State Senate: with Sen. Jennifer Fielder
Reducing Wildlife Conflicts and Strengthening Local Input:
Keeping in touch with Rep. Pat Ingraham
Our Speaker of the House, Mark Blasdel, began this 63rd Legislative Session by saying he wanted to make the session more about work, and less about political games. In the early days of this session, we heard addresses from Senator Max Baucus and Senator Jon Tester that echoed that same call.
Driver course for local senior citizens offered in area through AARP
News articles and editorials raise concerns about older drivers on increasingly busy streets and highways. Recent statistics show older adults are safe drivers with good driving records. As baby boomers reach retirement age, by 2030 the 65-plus population will make up a quarter of U.S. drivers.
Sanders County students make UM Western dean's list
Local Students Make the Fall 2012 Dean’s List at the University of Montana Western
Clark Fork Valley Hospital joins Montana Telestroke Network
Clark Fork Valley Hospital joins Montana Telestroke Network
Ovitt Auction
Benefit dinner attendees watch and listen to the entertaining auctioneering by Gene Johnson on Saturday at the VFW Hall.
Benefit dinner, auction for Ovitt a raging success
PLAINS - A local resident was in need of help, and the community answered Saturday at a benefit dinner and auction at the Plains VFW post.
March for Live
The Knights of Columbus held their sixth annual March for Life event in Thompson Falls, where participants protested the outcome of the landmark case of Roe v. Wade
Anniversary of Roe v. Wade sparks debate
THOMPSON FALLS - The Roe v. Wade anniversary stirred up a forty-year long clash of interests on Tuesday afternoon as peaceful protesters marched down Main Street in Thompson Falls holding up signs defending life.
Sheriff Rummel stands
Sheriff Tom Rummel stands strong for the statement released early last week that detailed his view on gun control
Sheriff Rummel humbled by support
SANDERS COUNTY - An American icon once said, “The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy,” and it was in the example set by Sanders County Sheriff Tom Rummel last week that the public saw - and liked - what he stood for in a time of uncertainty which surrounds the issue of gun control.
Paradise School
Paradise School
Paradise School confirmed to shut down
PARADISE - The confirmation of the closing of historic Paradise School has many in the Plains-Paradise area wondering what they can do to help, but as Paradise School board chair Karval Pickering said, “the only constant thing is change.” Yet now, the focus remains on the future of the building itself.
Friday, January 25
Sheriff Tom Rummel
Sanders County Sheriff Tom Rummel stands strong for the statement released earlier this week that detailed his view on gun control and his devotion to uphold his oath to defend the Constitution of both the United States and state of Montana.
Sanders County Sheriff Tom Rummel issues statement on gun control
SANDERS COUNTY -
Chimney fire in Paradise
At 9:15 a.m. on Friday, January 25, Plains Rural Fire Department was dispatched to a home on Tie Plant Road in Paradise for a chimney fire. The ambulance was called for 5 minutes later. Check back for more updates.
Thursday, January 24
Mineral County Community Calendar
Free classes at
Mineral County Court Report
Mineral County Court Records from January 10 to January 18
st. regis basketball
St. Regis senior Spur Hill goes up for a basket against Charlo.
Tiger basketball continues to build through hard work
At the beginning of the season, the St. Regis Tigers lost to Lincoln at home by over 20-points.
Alberton vs. Superior basketball
Alberton junior Ryan Vicek led the Panthers in scoring with eight-points against Superior.
Bobcats defend home court against Panthers
County rivals clashed in Superior on Thursday as the Lady Panthers of Alberton took the court to face off against the Lady Bobcats.
Bobcat basketball faces off with fellow powerhouse Arlee
After a big win over county rival Alberton early in the week, the Superior Bobcat basketball squad headed to Arlee to take on the Warriors.
Montana State Library releases videos highlighting impact of libraries
(SUPERIOR)--- The Montana State Library and Mineral County Public Library are pleased to announce the release of a series of three videos that highlight the impact libraries have on the lives of Montanans. The videos feature Montana library users and Montana librarians from around the state.
Preparation is key in the fight against the flu this season
If you have ever had the flu, you know how miserable it is. I’ve seen hundreds of cases as a doctor, but I also know from personal experience. To give my family and myself the best odds against the flu, we get the flu shot every year. This year is what the CDC calls a “widespread outbreak”, much like the Swine flu outbreak of 2009. Most of the US, including Montana, is included in this outbreak, and its range is increasing daily. The flu hit a bit earlier this season than expected, so we need to be prepared for a second wave later in the season.
Superior town council elects presidents
According to the charter of the town of Superior, the town council is required to elect one or two presidents every January and during the Jan. 14 meeting of the town council current councilors once again appointed presidents.
Comments sought of Fish Creek State Park
Montana State Parks (stateparks.mt.gov) announced today it is seeking the public’s input to help guide recreation planning for Fish Creek State Park, located about 35 miles west of Missoula, near Alberton.
Mineral County Commissioners Briefs
MRL train heads east
A Montana Rail Link freight train heads east through Mineral County. The MRL system consists of over 900 miles of track with 100 stations throughout Montana, including Superior.
Superior Community Center
In less than a week, residents of the Superior School District will vote on a levy increase. If passed, the funds will be used to construct a community center. However after two public meetings, concern is outweighing support.
The $7 Million Question
The Superior Elementary gym was nearly filled to capacity on Jan. 15 for the second public information meeting regarding the proposed mill levy increase to fund a multi-event community center in Superior.
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Lumber Prices at eight-year high
According to a news release, prices of lumber increased to an eight-year high, increasing the price of 22 percent from mid-November to January. The boom is accredited to the recovery of the U.S. housing market as well as rising exports to China. In Sanders County and Mineral County, there are two lumber companies: Tri-Con and Thompson River Lumber.
Sanders County Sheriff's Report - Jan. 23, 2013
Sanders County sheriff’s report 01/13 – 01/19
Both Noxon teams secure wins this week
NOXON – The Red Devils are on fire, winning both games of the week against Two Eagle River and Troy.
Thompson Falls basketball
Derek Whittenburg puts the ball up during the Friday home game against Libby.
Thompson Falls gains experience on court
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks and Bluehawks both suffered a hard week of play, losing both games of the week.
Horsemen Basketball
Aaron Baker looks for a basket against Bigfork - and big man - defense on Jan. 17 in Plains.
Horsemen, Trotters win some and lose some
PLAINS - The Horsemen and Trotters faced a tough yet successful weekend in which they played Bigfork and Troy, and the Trotters came out with two wins over the intense competition.
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The Savage Heat football players pick up Coach Lawson in celebration after they won the State Championship against Big Sandy.
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Hot Springs football head coach Jim Lawson watches a play Friday, Sept. 14 against St. Regis.
Lawson wins MCA's Coach of the Year
HOT SPRINGS – Savage Heat Football is still racking up recognition months after the regular season and six-man state championship game, but this kind of recognition is for the man behind the successful program, Coach Jim Lawson.
Ted Kato tournament 6
A Bluehawk wrestler works on getting a pin during the tournament.
Ted Kato tournament 5
A Red Devil wrestler prepares to grapple with a wrestler at the tournament.
Ted Kato tournament 4
John Gunderson manhandles a Mission-Charlo wrestler during the tournament.
Ted Kato tournament 3
A Noxon wrestler prepares to take down his opponent during a match.
Ted Kato tournament - 2
Savage Horseman Russell Kujala pins a wrestler from a different team.
Ted Kato tournament 1
A Savage Horseman pins down his opponent and counts down the seconds to victory.
Thompson Falls gets second at tournament
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawk wrestlers saw success at the Ted Kato tournament on Saturday placing second out of 13 teams total.
Senior News
Thompson Falls
LaMoyne Marilyn Ross
LaMoyne Marilyn Ross was born February 8, 1925 in Denair, California. She married Arthur Lee Ross on January 20, 1942 in Carlsbad, New Mexico. In 1955, they moved and bought a ranch in Stevensville, MT. In 1964, they moved to Trout Creek where they resided till their deaths. Art died in a sawmill accident in 1968. LaMoyne lived a long, full life, loved by many as she was always there to give a helping hand, never knowing a stranger. LaMoyne had 5 children, Art Jr. and Carl (deceased), 3 still living. Sam Ross (JoAnn), Berniece (Chris) Ingbretson and Rory Ross, all of Trout Creek. She was ready to go to our Lord on January 19th and is now in His loving care and at peace. She had 16 grandchildren, 31 great-grandchildren, several great-great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews. A memorial at the Community Church will be held Saturday at 11 a.m. on January 26th. There will be a potluck luncheon following at the Senior Citizen Center immediately following the service.
Louis Johnston
Louis Johnston, born on October 21, 1929, passed away on January 16, 2013 at the Oak Creek Rehabilitation Center in Kimberly, Idaho. Louie was 83 years old. He was a long time resident of Plains, Montana where he had many friends.
Phillip E. Mee
DEATH NOTICE - Phillip E. Mee, 70, passed away January 12, 2013 at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, WA. He is a graduate of Plains High School, class of 1959. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, January 26, 2013 at Sticklin Funeral Chapel, 1437 S. Gold St. Centralia, WA. Condolences may be offered at www.stickinsfuneralchapel.com.
Birth Announcement: John William Cody Smith
John William Cody Smith was born December 19 at 3:57 p.m. He weighted 7 pounds, 13 ounces. Parents are Shana and Cody Smith of Plains. Shana is a supervising teacher at Paradise Elementary, Cody is a volunteer firefighter.
snowmobiling
Aaron Miller heads up Pat's Knob on a snowmobile during the adventure.
Justyna's Column: First time snowmobiling
Growing up in Colorado, one would think I would have had ample chances to romp through the snow on a snowmobile. However, that not being the case, I finally got that opportunity this last week.
Keeping in touch with Rep. Pat Ingraham
On Monday, January 28th, State Administration will be hearing House Bill (HB) 214. This bill will require that the POW/MIA Flag be displayed with the flag of the United States of America at the State Capitol, any building that serves as the location of a state district court, any building that serves as the location of a city or town hall for an incorporated city or town and any building that serves as the main administrative building of a county.
Letters to the editor - Jan. 23, 2013
Why does it seem that every taxing body in this County needs a ‘keeper’? At a time when the very nation is in crisis mode about money, why are there even Preliminary plans for another giant boondoggle here? Do we have to make it a law that every meeting of Any Taxing body here HAS to have a big Sign there saying “Mineral is among the poorest counties in Montana- GET IT? ACT LIKE IT!” Just do your Job Better and forget about these monstrous ‘Pipedreams’ that occasionally ‘come up’ to Tax us All. Doesn’t our School Board have anything better to do than plot to tax me out of my house?
Planning begins for 2013 Sanders County RFL
SANDERS COUNTY - Planning has begun for the 2013 Sanders County Relay For Life. This American Cancer Society celebration of life brings together community members concerned about cancer in a unified effort to fight back. This year the event, set for Aug. 2-3, returns to Thompson Falls High School after two years in Plains. The steering committee is seeking for volunteers and teams to help organize the event.
School board meets
PLAINS - The Plains School Board meeting took place Monday, where a variety of different topics were discussed such as moving next month’s meeting a week later to Feb. 25.
Skijouring guidelines
2013 Whitefish Winter Carnival - World Ski Joring Championships Rules
skijoring
Jason Helvey rides his horse Blue while pulling skier Jerad Wilhelmsen through a series of jumps.
Local man to enter World Skijoring Championship
TROUT CREEK – On a brisk Friday afternoon, Jason Helvey takes to his homemade track to condition his two horses, Aspen and Blue in the joys of skijoring.
Fair Commission
Fair commission chair Bruce Icenoggle, left, and vice chair Chris McGuigan address a public comment Monday night.
Fair commission talks budget
PLAINS – The Sanders County Fair Commission hosted its first meeting of the New Year and touched on a variety of topics involving the upcoming fair.
Orville Bjorge
Orville Bjorge (left) happily shakes the hand of Hal Roys, who gifted Bjorge a paid membership dues for 2013 on behalf of the American Legion Post #112 of Polson. Bjorge has been a member for 56 years.
Local veteran celebrates 90th year
HOT SPRINGS – Ninety years of life – and what can a man show for so much time lived? For Orville Bjorge, it is a Bronze Star, a Purple Heart, a piece of his Norwegian father’s original homestead land, the ability to endure the aging process by maintaining independence, and the blessing of being loved by many friends and family.
Sheriff Rummel issues statement on gun control
SANDERS COUNTY - Sanders County Sheriff Tom Rummel issued this statement for the citizens of Sanders County on Jan. 22, and the Clark Fork Valley Press was asked to publish the statement for county readers to see in order to learn the stance of Rummel regarding the issue of gun control. Below is Sheriff Rummel’s official statement:
Wednesday, January 16
Lookout Pass brings in crowds
LOOKOUT PASS — For years, skiers, snowboarders and snow lovers have flocked to Lookout Pass Ski Resort, nestled in the mountains of the Silver Valley, even though the destination tucked away on the Montana-Idaho border can seem a million miles from anywhere.
Montana State Library preserves Montana's digital history
(HELENA)--- On Monday, January 7th, the State of Montana web site featured Governor Schweitzer and information on the Governor-elect, who would be inaugurated later that day. By the next morning, however, all of the information on Governor Schweitzer had vanished. Suddenly, Governor Steve Bullock was prominently showcased.
Forest Service seeks comments on Tamarack project at Open House
Superior, MT.— The Forest Service is seeking comment on the 12 Tamarack project, which describes a proposal to improve forest health, watershed conditions, and big game winter range within the Twelvemile Creek, Tamarack Creek, Mullan Gulch, and Boyd Mountain area located north and west of St. Regis. Proposed activities include prescribed burning, timber harvest, non-commercial vegetation treatments, watershed improvements, recreation enhancements, and road and trail management activities.
MCPAC to bring "Saxophobia" to Superior on January 22
On Tues. Jan 22, Saxophobia will sweep Mineral County when Rob Verdi arrives to perform his saxophone concert.
Superior Ranger District offers course on government jobs
The Superior Ranger District will be offering a free community class on how to apply for government jobs through the USA jobs website. We will also talk about how to build a quality resume which could be used when applying to both government and nongovernment positions.
Mineral County Court Report
Mineral County Court Records from January 4 to January 11
Bobcat wrestling
Superior's Bridger LaPierre is 25-11 this wrestling season.
Bobcat wrestling continues to excel in competition
Superior Wrestling Coach Charlie Crabb called the Rocky Mountain Classic tournament in Missoula a “meat grinder.”
Lady Panthers begin to find their groove
The Alberton Lady Panther basketball team had a busy week, taking on three opponents beginning Jan. 8 on the road against Lincoln.
Superior vs. St. Regis basketball
St. Regis sophomore Dakota Wickham makes an athletic move to get to the basket on Thursday.
County rivals collide
The gym at Superior High School was nearly filled to capacity on Thursday night as the St. Regis Tigers made the short trip on Interstate 90 for two games of intense conference basketball.
Commissioners begin 2013 with resolutions
During the first regular meeting of the Mineral County Commissioners for the year 2013, the commissioners went about adopting a series of resolutions that will affect their day-to-day operations in the future.
Schwaderer stands alone on HB-1 vote
Only days into his first session as the representative for House District 14, Nick Schwaderer is standing alone.
Column: face to face
The photo on the left was featured in the first issue of the Mineral Independent I was involved in producing. The photo on the right, also featuring John Pruitt, was featured exactly a year later.
Column: Coming face to face with the past and learning
While covering the St. Regis Tiger basketball team go up against Two Eagle River I came face to face with my past. With my brief history in Mineral County.
St. Regis Board meeting
John Cheesman presents the St. Regis School Board of Trustees with a petition during a meeting Jan. 9.
St. Regis board responds to community petition
In an unusually well attended meeting of the St. Regis School Board of Trustees on Jan. 9 a petition presented to the board during public comment addressed public concerns with the board and the administrative leave of Tammy Demien.
No leads in investigation of 21-year-old missing person
Almost two months have passed since Dustin Goebel went missing and friends continue to leave messages on the 21-year-olds Facebook wall, wishing him a Happy New Year and asking for him to contact them.
Mineral County Community Calendar
Free classes at St. Regis School
Everett Lee Heath
Everett Lee Heath
Sanders County Sheriff's Report
The following incidents were investigated by local authorities and the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office.
Sanders County Court Records
Dismissed:
Emily Judith Lonergan
LONEPINE - Emily Judith Lonergan was born November 9, 2012 at Clark Fork Valley Hospital in Plains. She weighed 6 pounds and 13.5 ounces. Parents are Wendy Chapman and Matthew Lonergan of Lonepine. Paternal grandparents are Bob and Judy Lonergan of Ponte Vedra, FL. Maternal grandfather is Jim Chapman of Shelby, MT.
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Savage Horsemen wrestling
Dusten Henning takes down a Noxon kiddo at the Plains Quad tourney on Thursday.
Plains performs well at Quad, Chaoteau
PLAINS - The band of Plains and Hot Springs wrestlers just keep improving with time as they progress with tournaments and challenges.
Bluehawks basketball
Bluehawk senior Ross Dalby dribbles the ball past Logger Dan Leggins during the away game on Thursday.
Bluehawks give it their all against Libby, Bigfork
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawks hit the road Thursday to play the Libby Loggers, falling behind in a close game and ending the match with a score of 41-54.
Horsemen basketball
Sophomore Aaron Baker takes a shot over a few Wardens players on Dec. 21 in Plains.
Horsemen defear the Chiefs at home
PLAINS - The Horsemen came out swinging against Ronan on Friday night and scored a victory, 54-47, and head coach Russ Baker said it was due to heighth, and working the inside.
Lady Hawks basketball
Logan Beckman faces off with a Logger as she goes in for a shot.
Lady Hawks turn up the heat on the court
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks secured two wins over the past week, and hope to gain yet another win on Thursday against Florence on their home turf.
Rose M. Cristaldi
Rose M. Cristaldi, 93, of Plains, MT died Thursday, January 10 at the home she shared with her son, Anthony, in Plains, MT.
Mary Jane Chisholm
Mary Jane (Janie) Chisholm age 78, went to be with her Lord and Savior on
Joscelyn Lea Cook
Joscelyn Lea Cook, 21, of Plains went home to be with the love of her life, Jesus Christ her Lord and Savior on January 6, 2013.
Stay safe; get your flu shot
Influenza has the potential to cause life-threatening illness and complications — especially in the young, the elderly and people with weak immune systems.
Pat Ingraham
Rep. Pat Ingraham
Keeping in touch with Rep. Pat Ingraham
On Monday, January 7, 2013 the 63rd Legislature convened at noon in both the House and Senate Chambers for the Swearing-in Ceremony for Legislators. A moment in time where we can reflect of the great honor the people of Montana have bestowed upon each of us, that of serving them in this Great House of the People.
Jennifer Fielder
Sen. Jennifer Fielder
From your State Senate: with Sen. Jennifer Fielder
It was quite an honor to be sworn into office at the state capitol on January 7. I do not take the responsibility lightly. I’m in Helena now, working 6 days a week, often 12-14 hours a day and I’m fully committed to honoring my oath to serve you well. I have been appointed to three senate committees: Natural Resources, Judiciary, and Fish & Game.
A message from Nick Schwaderer
Friends,
Letters to the editor - Jan. 16, 2013
MONSTERS
Former Plains resident elected as Montana Public Service Commissioner
PLAINS - Former Plains resident Bill Gallagher is the new chairman of the Montana Public Service Commission.
Tiara Thompson
Tiara Thompson pictured here in a volleyball game won the National Athledership Grant sponsored by NCSA Athletic Recruiting and the NFLPA.
Plains high school athlete wins national award
PLAINS - Tiara Thompson from Plains High School has won a National Athleadership Grant sponsored by NCSA Athletic Recruiting and the NFLPA. Receiving this prestigious award is an honor, one that is only given to a select number of student athletes throughout the country in all sports from football to track. The Athleadership Grant is awarded to student athletes who qualify based on leadership in their community, academic achievement, athletics and a required essay written by the student athlete.
Revett Minerals provides Troy Mine update
Revett Minerals Inc. provided an update on monitoring activities at its Troy Mine in northwest Montana.
New Year baby
Buddy Farmer and Andrea Mitchell show off their new baby, Cash Farmer.
First baby of the New Year born at CFVH
PLAINS - Cash Mitchell Farmer was born Jan. 4, 2013 at 3:54 p.m. and was the first baby of the new year. He was born in Sanders County at Clark Fork Valley Hospital. He weighed 6 pounds and 10 ounces and was 20 inches long. Parents are Andrea Mitchell and Edgar “Buddy” A. Farmer II of Plains. Paternal grandparents are Edgar and Patricia Farmer. Maternal grandparents are Gary and Anita Mitchell.
Lower Lynch Creek accident
Authorities including the Sanders County Sheriff's Office and Plains-Paradise Rural Fire District investigate the scene of a two-vehicle, non-injury crash at Lower Lynch Creek Road and Pilgeram Road. A Chevy pickup truck collided with a SUV. Reports indicated that the crash was due to the thick snow and icy road conditions.
Plains Town Council meets for January; Two new fire department members announced
PLAINS - The Plains Town Council met last Monday night and among the major announcements made at the meeting, Plains Volunteer Fire Department Chief Joe Sheppard announced to the council that they have welcomed two new members.
Icy Roads
Slick roadways have been reported around Sanders County. Drivers are advised to slow down and pay careful attention to their surroundings.
Local road conditions make for risky driving
SANDERS COUNTY – Northwestern Montana has experienced some snow causing icy conditions over the week. However, County Emergency Management Coordinator Bill Naegeli said the weather is nothing out of the ordinary for this time of year.
Mountain lion season strong in Region One
With surrounding regions closed to mountain lion season, region one is still going strong filling the permits as the season progresses.
Thursday, January 10
Accident on Lower Lynch Road
PLAINS- At approximately 4:20 p.m. there was a two vehicle accident off Pilgrim Creek Road on Lower Lynch Road. There were no injuries, but there is blockage in the road.
Nagy shoots
Wyatt Nagy takes a nice shot from inside the paint for a score. Nagy led the Savage Heat in scoring, putting up 12 points total.
Savage Heat blaze past Red Devils, Horsemen over weekend
HOT SPRINGS/PLAINS - The weekend was a good one for the Savage Heat basketball team with victories over the Noxon Red Devils and Plains Horsemen; proving their athletic talents lay not just in football.
Fast break
Logan Beckman keeps her defense strong as she drives the ball in for a shot.
Lady Hawks take win from Trotters
Wildhorse Sports Association gets more aid in New Year
Pavlik
Pavlik appears in Sanders County District Court on Tuesday, Jan. 8.
Mineral County Court Report
Charles Buster Dragoo
Superior Bobcat
Superior Bocat senior Billy Smith drives the ball against Charlo on Friday night.
Shrine team
Seniors Adam Kay and Billy Smith will take part in the annual Shrine game in July.
Kay and Smith named to Shrine team
Lady Panthers learn valuable lessons in two conference games
Lady Tigers
St. Regis freshman Pilar Cantrell-Field scores two of her 25-points against Two Eagle River on Friday.
Lady Tigers start slow, finish strong
ST. REGIS - The St. Regis Lady Tiger basketball squad was tested early on Thursday when they headed to Darby.
Superior District Forester earns Master Cruiser certification
SUPERIOR - Superior Ranger District employee Ed Bringenberg was awarded the title of Master Cruiser earlier this month in a ceremony at the Lolo National Forest Supervisor’s Office at Fort Missoula. Bringenberg, a Presale Forester on the Superior District, joins the ranks of only a handful of timber cruising specialists throughout the Northern Region to earn the Master Cruiser certification from the Regional Forester.
Mineral County health officer offers insight into losing weight
Water compact opposed by commissioners
Commissioners award Title III funds to fire and mapping projects
Commissioners are sworn in
Commissioner Roman Zylawy administers the oath of office to Laurie Johnston and Kathleen Brown.
Brown, Johnston take oath of office to begin term
Incidents prompt jail safety discussion
Wednesday, January 2
Mineral County Community Calendar
Trestle Creek Meeting
Joseph L. Rickett
Joseph L Rickett of Missoula, Mt. passed away December 9th. 2012 in Thermopolis Co., Wyoming, thus ending a 65 year career in the logging industry. He had worked in Wyoming for the past 2 1/2 years.
Superior basketball
Superior Lady Bobcat senior Nicole Stroot led the way with 20-points against Thompson Falls on Dec. 20 including winning the game in dramatic fashion with a final second lay-up and free throw.
Coast-to-coast
The Superior Lady Bobcats got off to a slow start on Dec. 20 against Thompson Falls but ended things in dramatic fashion.
Mineral County Public Library invites public to visit history
If you haven’t already, now is the time to discover Western author Will James at the Mineral County Public Library.
FWP to offer trapping classes for beginners as well as bowhunting courses
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks will offer a short course tailored to those that do not trap but want to learn more about furbearer management, Montana trapping seasons and how to release traps.
Mineral County Airport Board aims to be self-sufficient
Steve Temple and Mark Grimm of the Mineral County Airport Board where on hand at the regular meeting of the Mineral County Commissioners on Dec. 19 to give the commissioners an update on the airport.
Ghost Rails Inn
The Ghost Rails Inn, located in Alberton, caught fire and was severely damaged on Christmas Eve.
Superior students at hospital
Students in Stacy Cobb's fourth grade class at Superior Elementary School visited Mineral Community Hospital, where they learned about the real world applications of their classroom studies.
Students see the importance of their studies
After studying six of the 10 systems of the human body, the students of Stacy Crabb’s fourth grade class saw the real world applications of their knowledge.
Winter scene 3
Sanders County was blanketed in snow and ice over the holiday week. Such beauty was admired by many, but also experienced by a few on the dangerous, icy roads over the course of the week. Several reports of rollovers and slide-offs were made; however, most of the incidents were non-injury.
Rocky Point
Rocky Point from River Road East in Plains
Trotters basketball
Sophomore Sami Kinzie gets aggressive on Dec. 21 against Deer Lodge.
Horsemen basketball
Senior Jon Baker makes a pass to a teammate on Dec. 21 against Deer Lodge.
Horsemen & Trotters host Deer Lodge
PLAINS - The Plains Horsemen and Trotters basketball teams hosted Deer Lodge squads the weekend before last prior to the holiday, and after hard-fought battles, neither pulled out a win.
Sanders County Sheriff's Report
0102 Sheriffs
Sanders County Cour Records
Courts 12/15 – 12/21
Sanders County Senior News
Thompson Falls
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Buck 1
Cornelius A. Buck
Cornelius A. Buck
Cornelius (Lonnie) A. Buck, 89, is now in his forever home with God his Father in heaven after passing away Saturday, December 15, 2012 at St. Patrick Hospital.
Bluehawk wrestling
A Bluehawk grappler looks to gain the advantage over a Warrior opponent during a match at the Mission Mountain Classic wrestling tournament on Dec. 22.
Bluehawk wrestling takes small band to Mission tourney
THOMPSON FALLS - Prior to the holiday vacation, the Bluehawk wrestling squad traveled to compete at the Mission Mountian Classic wrestling tournament in St. Ignatius.
Savage Heat fall to Superior Bobcats
HOT SPRINGS - The Savage Heat hosted the Superior Bobcats on Dec. 22 for a close match-up that resulted in a loss.
Lady Hawks basketball
Logan Beckman take a shot against the Troy Lady Trojans on Dec. 21 at home. Beckman led the Lady Hawks in scoring for the game, posting 14 points total.
Lady Hawks beat Troy
THOMPSON FALLS - The Lady Hawks took it to Troy last weekend with a win, 45-26, that put them on the map in their league play going into the holiday.
Savage Horsemen wrestling
Plains junior Caleb Connolly grapples with an opponet from Polson at the Mission Mountain Classic on Dec. 22.
Savage Horsemen wrestlers bring it to the mat
PLAINS - Head coach of Plains/Hot Springs wrestling Kenny Marjerrison is quite proud of his squad so far this season.
Frank's Two Cents Column: Guns are dangerous, but people are more so
I don’t know anything about guns. I have no fascination with them, and no particular interest in them.
Enjoy the New Year intact: Drive sober or don't drive
THOMPSON FALLS — As Montanans celebrate this festive season with holiday parties and end-of-year celebrations, The Sanders County Sheriff’s Office is increasing patrols through January 1, 2013, to deter impaired, unsafe driving and keep the public safe on Montana roads.
New fire plan explored
THOMPSON FALLS - The Sanders County Commissioners held a public meeting on Dec. 20 in which they met with fire behavior analyst Rick Carlson to discuss the fire plan draft for 2013.
Swearing in officials
Sanders County Commissioner Tony Cox reads the ceremonial procedures for the swearing in of Carol Brooker, Candace Fisher and Beth Rice-Groshong on Dec. 27 at the Sanders County Commissioners conference room in Thompson Falls.
Newly elected officials sworn into office
THOMPSON FALLS - It was a short, but very sweet swearing-in ceremony on Thursday, three recently-elected officials were celebrated.
River Road West accident
A vehicle slide-off accident on River Road West is investigated on Dec. 21 by MHP, Plains PD and Plains Volunteer Fire Department. The driver of the pickup truck was injured, but was transported to CFVH by private vehicle and injuries were reported to not be serious.
Slide-off occurs on River Road West
PLAINS - A single vehicle slide-off occured on Friday, Dec. 21 that resulted in minor injuries of a minor male traveling on River Road West. The young man had been coming from a residence when a gradual turn became an icy mishap. According to authorities, the driver lost control of the Dodge pickup truck and it collided into a hill and a tire was blown. The driver hit his head, but was able to crawl out of the vehicle and wait for authorities to arrive to the scene. The father of the juvenile driver arrived and gave information to Plains PD and MHP. There was minimal blockage due to the accident, but Plains-Paradise Rural Fire and Plains Volunteer Fire directed traffic to one lane that was slow-moving due to the ice.
Arson fire devastates tire facility
HOT SPRINGS - Arson was the cause of the large fire at Enviro-Tire near Lonepine on Dec. 22, and according to officials, new leads have not arisen despite the $3,000 reward offered for any information.
