Friday, September 26
Obituaries; Diana Lynn Loseth
Diana Lynn Loseth, 53 passed away unexpectedly on September 8th, 2014 in Plains, MT. She was born on December 19th, 1960 to Anita and David Loseth in Petersburg, Ak. Five minutes after being born her twin sister Deborah (Fisher) Loseth followed.
Community calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Court records
Bond forfeited:
CNSC readies fundraiser
Cancer Network of Sanders County is gearing up for their 13th Annual Fall Fundraiser. This year we are holding a “Brats, Hops & Grapes” event, October 4, 2014 from 5:30 – 9:00 pm at the Sanders County Fairgounds Pavilion. Tickets are available for $30/person and can be purchased at Garden Gift & Floral in Plains, D & D Liquor in Thomson Falls, or by calling 826-4278. This year we will have a Silent Auction and a Live Auction featuring Mr. Kevin Hill as our auctioneer. The live auction will include Griz/Cat Football Tickets, Griz/Cat Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tickets, an Adirondack Chair and a Garden Bench just to mention a few of the items we have! There will also be live music provided by Troy Big Medicine DeRoche, an internationally known Native American flute player and composer. He also hand-makes his own instruments.
Locals come together
PARADISE – Paradise School, which closed its doors in May 2013 due to an inadequate number of students, has potential for a second life. A group of interested individuals from Paradise and Plains have formed the Paradise School Preservation Committee. Their vision is to create a visitor center, arts center and community center in the century old historic building. The multi-use facility would serve the potential for creating economic opportunity within the community and Sanders County.
Superintendent Jason Slater
Jason Slater was the guest speaker at this month's Thompson Falls Chamber of Commerce meeting.
Slater talks education
THOMPSON FALLS – Members of the Thompson Falls business community assembled at the First Baptist Annex off Highway 200 for the monthly chamber of commerce meeting.
Norwegian Fjords
Warren Wickum leads his team of Norwegian Fjords through the grounds of 5 Creek Gardens last Saturday.
5 Creek Gardens holds fall event
PLAINS – Local residents of all ages flocked to the area around Weeksville Creek for a celebration of the autumn season last weekend.
County DUI Task Force meets
THOMPSON FALLS – Compliancy checks and upcoming Red Ribbon Week events dominated the discussion as the Sanders County DUI Task Force came together for their monthly meeting last week.
2014 Burning Man Festival
Bob Heckman of Plains traveled to this year's Burning Man Festival in Nevada.
Plains man makes trek
PLAINS – One resident of Plains made his way over 1,000 miles to take part in a one of a kind festival: a place where an entire culture is constructed, strangers become family and everyone is allowed to be exactly who they want to be with no passed judgments.
The mystery letter
The letter, pictured above was written by an unknown group of young ladies from Noxon.
Who sent letter for Elvis?
NOXON – The Dwight D. Eisenhower Library and National Public Radio in Washington, DC is asking for help in finding three young ladies from Noxon who wrote a letter, pleading with then president Eisenhower, to allow Elvis Presley to keep his side burns when he was drafted into the United States Army.
Paradise School preservation committee meets
PARADISE – Though the Paradise School no longer hosts students during the school year, a group of local residents are working to ensure the historic building a new role, which will benefit the Paradise community well into the future.
Seatbelts and car seats inspected
Gilbert Wilson, left, straps his granddaughter Danica Wilson into a car seat on Wednesday, Sept. 17 to make sure the seat is the right fit.
Thursday, September 25
Court report
Bond forfeited:
Community calendar
Road to Recovery
An update from Senator Fielder
“There are no losers to what we are going to propose,” said Kane County Commissioner Doug Heaton, a founding member of American Lands Council (ALC).
Letters to the Editor; A couple of lessons
A COUPLE OF LESSONS
Superior Meats and Mineral County Airport
A project that has been in the developmental stages for a decade is nearing the last few steps of completion.
Project moving forward
SUPERIOR – A project a decade in the making that could provide one local business and a county facility with desperately needed utility infrastructure is closer than ever to becoming a reality.
Child safety a priority
SUPERIOR – Several entities in Mineral County worked together last week at two separate events during Child Passenger Safety Week to ensure children are properly restrained when they travel in vehicles.
Open Doors opens up to chamber
SUPERIOR –A representative from a group interested in investing in Superior was on hand at the latest Mineral County Chamber of Commerce meeting to answer questions from community members about their intentions and motivations.
Women in Timber Thrift Store
Joann Merseal checks the video camera at the thrift store.
Thrift store has a message to send
SUPERIOR – The motto posted on the front door of the Women in Timber Thrift Store reads “if you wouldn’t use it, wear it or give it to your best friend, please don’t share it with us” and they are asking whoever is dumping trash on their front step to abide by those words.
Soccer teams take to the field in Superior
Players with the under six years old team of the Mineral County Soccer League race down the field as players from Thompson Falls give chase.
Wednesday, September 24
Power Football
Senior running back Gary Wadman makes his way through traffic last Friday against Arlee.
Noxon plays Arlee
NOXON – As the sun slipped behind the mountains behind Noxon Reservoir the lights lit up the football field for homecoming and the Noxon Red Devils battled Arlee on last Friday.
Lady Devils win at home
NOXON – On Homecoming weekend the Noxon Lady Red Devils triumphed over the competition defeating the visiting Superior Lady Bobcats in a match last weekend.
Mountain West Invitational
Demi Horton competes in a race earlier in the season for the Plains Trotters.
XC teams run in Missoula
MISSOULA - The Plains High School boys and girls cross-country team participated in the annual Mountain West Cross Country Invitational last weekend.
Lady Savage Heat
Jewels Huntsman goes up for a block against Charlo.
Lady Savage Heat compete vs. Charlo
HOT SPRINGS – The Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat volleyball team returned home after a long stretch of games on the road last weekend.
Bluehawks battle Wardens on gridiron
THOMPSON FALLS – Under the lights the Thompson Falls Bluehawks met the Deer Lodge Wardens on home turf last weekend.
Goal!
Anna Dryden hits home the equalizer during Saturday's match against St. Regis. The game ended in a 1-1 draw.
Plains soccer draws against St. Regis
PLAINS – Boys and girls hustled from one side of the pitch to the other as Plains Youth Soccer held its first home match of the year against the youth squad from St. Regis.
Heart of Gold
Hundreds of people gathered at O'Aces in DeBorgia to help raise money for Robin Jennings' cancer treatment.
Heart of Gold in DeBorgia
DEBORGIA – The parking lot of the O’Aces bar and restaurant was at capacity Saturday, Sept. 20 as people from as far away as Couer d’Alene made the trip to celebrate co-owner Robin Jennings and to support her fight against cancer.
Marlene Stellmon Award
Jennifer Donovan recently was awarded the Marlene Stellmon Award given to early-career health care professionals in Montana who have made an impact on their patients and their community.
Health care worker wins award
SUPERIOR – A local nurse with the Mineral County Health Department was recently awarded special recognition for her devotion to serving the health care needs of the people of Mineral County.
Pocket Presence
Panther quarterback Jack Lehl, left wearing #1, goes for one of his many rushes against the St. Regis Tigers last Friday. Alberton won the rematch 91-56.
Alberton and St. Regis play epic game
ST. REGIS – The St. Regis Tigers took on the Alberton Panthers in a much anticipated cross county rematch on Friday, Sept. 19 during the Tiger’s homecoming celebration.
Noxon Homecoming Weekend
This year's homecoming court at Noxon High School gets ready to ride off into the sunset. From left to right, McKenna Krueger, Alan Chojnacky, Sara Webley, and Austin Johnson. Webley and Johnson were the 2014 Homecoming Queen and King.
Bomb scare in Superior
SUPERIOR – A package set off a brief bomb scare at the post office in Superior Monday, Sept. 22 at approximately 8 a.m. after postal employees alerted local law enforcement to what they considered suspicious markings on the outside of the package.
Thursday, September 18
Obituary; Alice Mardell (Dewar) Monzie
Alice Mardell (Dewar) Monzie, 91, of Hood River, Ore., passed away Sept. 5, 2014, at the Hood River Care Center of natural causes. Alice was born July 30, 1923, at Rexford, Mont., to Jesse C. and Alice Adele (Stone) Dewar.
Mineral County hit with scams
MINERAL COUNTY - Western Montana continues to be a target of the phone fraud racket. Apparently the fraudsters see Montana as a growth market.
Court records
Bond forfeited:
Community calendar
Road to Recovery
Chamber chatter
No doubt you’ve noticed that the committees and organizations you participate in have had a drop in membership, rather, a drop in volunteerism. Not only here, but nationwide. The fraternal organizations have seen a major decline to the point of closing many, or at least chapters. I remember when the Elks Club in Missoula was the most popular social gathering spot in town. The Moose was a close second. Service organizations such as Rotary and Kiwanis there are still pretty solid and I partially attribute that to the time of day meetings are conducted. But they face the same challenge all do: 20-80. Twenty percent of the membership does eighty percent of the work. Some places are 10-90, but regardless, this ratio is the norm. Burn out. And I get that. Too much for too long and the torch needs to be passed. Hopefully, there is someone who has the energy and vision to take it for a few years, and so the cycle continues. Which leads me to where I want to ‘soapbox’ for a moment. The American Cancer Society Relay for Life has been a well organized, profitable event in Mineral County for many years. To the by-stander, it is a well oiled machine that involves gobs of volunteers (help) that culminates into a FUN event. We all know someone close who has been affected by cancer which is one of the reasons this is so successful (and FUN) in our county. But their leadership is plum worn out and they are in need of a chair for 2015. This requires a committed individual(s) who oversees the event through meetings, phone calls, emails and personal relationship building. It’s not easy, but it’s not killer, either. It pays squat, but the reward is magnificent! You get to meet and work with some of Mineral Counties finest people and raise money to fight one of the most despicable diseases on earth. A couple of years ago, Mineral County raised nearly $45,000. That same year, Missoula County raised $86,000. Kinda tells ya of the generosity of our neighbors, doesn’t it? Call me at 822-5122 if you’re interested. Thanks.
Letters to the Editor; A grave crime
Editor:
Letters to the Editor; 50th Anniversary
This September we celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Wilderness Act, and also of our much loved Cabinet Mountains Wilderness. The Act was passed in 1964 by a unanimous vote of Congress “for the permanent good of the whole people,” as stated in its opening line.
Farewell and take care
Two years, one month, and 17 days. That’s how long I’ve been able to call the Clark Fork Valley Press and Mineral Independent office my second home. With seldom a day off, it’s easy for me to say that these papers have not only been my life for the past few years, but they have been my passion – a burning passion that is hard for me to put out.
An update from Rep. Ingraham
National POW/MIA Recognition Day is a day of commemoration for servicemen unaccounted for or missing and will soon be celebrated in America on September 19th, the official date for 2014 as established by a proclamation signed by the President on a yearly basis. This day of recognition is a day not only to remember our Prisoners of War and our Missing in Action (POW/MIA) servicemen and women, but is a day to remind America of its responsibility to do everything in its power to account for those who are missing or captive.
St. Regis High School Gym
The newly finished floor of the St. Regis High School gym is the centerpiece of a wide variety of improvements to the building.
St. Regis school shows off new look
ST. REGIS – The St. Regis School District took advantage of their open house event last week to educate parents and others in attendance about the school’s new programs, amenities and some new aesthetic features.
Second-hand smoke a public health issue
MINERAL COUNTY – Mineral County health officials want the public to be aware of the dangers second-hand smoke exposure can pose especially for children.
Superior pool
The community swimming pool in Superior has been seeing less users over the last few years and less revenue to cover operating costs.
Future of Superior pool in question
SUPERIOR – Some residents in Superior are calling for the community swimming pool to be closed down permanently because they say the pool has been losing money and clientele for years.
County budget work wraps up
MINERAL COUNTY – Mineral County Commissioners heard from the last few departments about their budgets at their meeting Friday, Sept. 12 and were in the process of finalizing the paperwork which will be sent to the state for final approval.
TRACS holds Fall Festival
Teresa Fisher works on a painting during TRACS Fall Festival last Saturday in Thompson Fall's PPL Park.
Burst Pipe
Fans and dehumidifiers dry out the Mineral County Courthouse after a water leak flooded the building.
Burst pipe floods courthouse
SUPERIOR – A burst pipe in the Mineral County Courthouse sent water shooting through a wall, soaking the carpet in the hallway leading to the emergency dispatch center and causing damage to offices.
Wednesday, September 17
TRACS
Joe Moyer plays the guitar during the TRACS Fall Festival last weekend in Thompson Falls at PPL Park.
TRACS rethinks fall festival fundraiser
THOMPSON FALLS – Thompson River Animal Care Shelter held their annual fall fundraiser on Saturday, Sept. 13 and although traffic was light, those in attendance enjoyed good food, good drinks and good entertainment.
Hot Springs Chamber discusses events
HOT SPRINGS – The Hot Springs Chamber of Commerce had a full slate of events to discuss when the committee came together for their monthly meeting last week.
Horsemen
Trent Brouilette extends for the football during Plains home opener against the Whitehall Trojans on Friday evening.
Plains plays home opener last Friday
PLAINS – The Plains Horsemen football team hosted their home opener last week against the Whitehall Trojans.
Noxon gains expereince
NOXON – The Red Devils hit the gridiron against Flint Creek on Friday, Sept. 12, coming out with one touch down and an ultimate loss. The final score was 8-56.
Hot Springs faces defeat
NOXON – The Lady Savage Heat Volleyball team continued their set of away games with a match against Noxon last weekend.
Lady Hawks battle
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks met their match when they went up against the Polson Lady Pirates in a Tuesday home game.
Wheeler
Madison Wheeler goes in to spike the ball during the game against the Polson Lady Pirates.
Noxon heats up court
NOXON – The Lady Red Devils suffered a loss and later combated it with a win against county rivals as the ladies record went to 3-1 overall.
Plains volleyball continues winning
PLAINS – The Trotters volleyball team cruised their way to two home victories over the weekend, giving the team three consecutive wins on the week.
Bluehawks prepare for Deer Lodge
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawks footall field traveled to Choteau, gaining experience and improving on the field.
Cross country teams heat up
RONAN – The Plains and Thompson Falls cross county teams competed in Ronan last weekend as the fall season picks up steam.
Cross country
Trotters Shannon Dimond and Jade LaDeaux run with some of their opponents during the Ronan Invitational held at the Mission Mountain Golf Course.
85-0: Hot Springs dominates competition on the gridiron
HOT SPRINGS – The Savage Heat six-man football team lit up the scoreboard and shut out the opposition last week en route to an 85-0 victory over Sheridan.
Domination
Running back Jameson Morigeau runs through Sheridan's offense during the blowout game. Hot Springs beat their opponent by 85 points.
Sanders County Court Report
Sanders County Justice Court week of 9/1 to 9/8.
Local joins National Guard
HOT SPRINGS – Hot Springs resident, Nicolette Alex Green, recently joined the Montana Army National Guard and has chosen to serve as a Radio Operator Maintainer.
Sanders County Community Calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Laurel Ann Hamilton
Laurel Ann Hamilton, age 56, of Plains, Montana died suddenly on Tuesday, September 9, 2014.
Chloe Eleanor McEvers Roosma
Chloe Eleanor McEvers Roosma, 94, of Hot Springs, passed away peacefully at her home on Aug. 25th 2014. She is survived by her four sons and their spouses, Sam and Diana of Hot Springs, Dirk and Tammy of Hot Springs, Lou and Laurie of Walla Walla, Washington, and Tom and Kathy of East Sound, Washington, and eight grandchildren, and five great grandchildren. She will be greatly missed by all.
Tuesday, September 16
New MCH CEO coming soon to Superior
SUPERIOR – There will be a new face among the familiar ones at the Mineral Community Hospital soon as the search for a new chief executive officer continues.
Dr. Parker
Dr. Parker recently moved to practice medicine in Mineral County from the island of Guam.
New doctor adjusts to life in Mineral County
SUPERIOR – A family practitioner and her family who moved to the area seven months ago are slowly but surely adjusting to life in rural Montana after spending the last few years in a place about as opposite from Mineral County as can be.
Stakeholders get answers
MINERAL COUNTY – A group of Mineral County land management stakeholders met on Tuesday, Sept. 2, to discuss how recently discovered information could affect the way forests in the county are utilized in the future.
St. Regis looks to rebound for homecoming
LIMA – Coming off a strong showing against cross county rival Alberton two weeks ago, the St. Regis Tigers were handed their first loss of the season against Lima on the road, dropping the game 56-13.
Alberton wins on road
WEST YELLOWSTONE – The Alberton Panthers did all their scoring in the first half against West Yellowstone and it was just enough to hold off the Wolverines with a final score of 30-25.
Bobcats football
Bridger Lapierre rushes the ball against Darby last Friday.
Superior narrowly falls to Darby
DARBY – The Superior Bobcats were already at a disadvantage when they took the field under the bright lights of Darby on Friday, Sept. 12 due to the absence of their starting quarterback and it may have contributed to their second loss of the season.
Lady Bobcats
Lady Bobcat Morgan Sharp elevates to spike the ball against Alberton last week.
Superior and Alberton face off
ALBERTON – In one of the few cross county match ups during the 2014-2015 volleyball season, Superior and Alberton faced off against each other on the court for Mineral County volleyball supremacy bragging rights.
St. Regis Lady Tigers beat Arlee
ST REGIS – Playing on a new court surface that literally reflects everything new about the St. Regis gym, the Lady Tigers handed the Arlee Warriors their first loss of the season last week.
GLM Auto Repair
Alec McKinney works on a vehicle in his stepdad's auto shop. After serving in the Air Force for 20 years he had planned on coming home to take over operation of the repair shop in Superior.
Service member returns home
SUPERIOR – One local Superior resident, born and raised here, has returned after spending over 20 years away in the U.S. military to take over the reins of a local business that provides an essential service to the community.
Now that's an elk!
Wyatt O'Day 14, holds his trophy from an elk he shot while bowhunting in Mineral County.
Friday, September 12
Obituary; Peggy Steinebach
PLAINS - Peggy 87, beloved mother and grandmother passed on Sept. 3, 2014 of natural causes with her loyal dog Toby by her side.
Senior news
Dixon
Court report
Sanders County Justice Court week of 8/25 - 9/1.
Cancer Network of Sanders County
John Kelley plays his guitar during a fundraiser for the Cancer Network of Sanders County last weekend in Hot Springs.
Benefit helps cancer network
HOT SPRINGS – Two residents of Hot Springs were impressed by the generosity of the Cancer Network of Sanders County and to show their appreciation, the duo launched a fundraiser for the non-profit.
TRACS festival to bring good food and beverages
THOMPSON FALLS – If you are a fan of hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and entertainment, then Thompson River Animal Care Shelter has a place for you.
Billboard Campaign
A photographer takes pictures of local law enforcement officials as part of a billboard campaign that will launch in October.
Campaign sends important message
PLAINS - Local agencies came together to help send an important message to kids as they start a new school year - the dangers of drinking and driving.
Rodeo
According to Fair Manager Mike Hashisaki, rodeo attendance was up at this year's fair.
Fair events see increase in numbers
PLAINS – Following the dispersal of crowds from the Sanders County Fairgrounds Fair Manager Mike Hashisaki has received positive feedback regarding the annual event and commented on the success of the fair’s rodeo events.
County budget gets approved
THOMPSON FALLS – After meeting with many representatives from the different groups, the Sanders County Commissioners completed the arduous task of drafting the county’s budget for the next fiscal year.
CSKT to bring footpath to Hot Springs
HOT SPRINGS – Outdoor enthusiasts will soon have an area in town to call home as a new walking path will soon be constructed in Hot Springs.
Thursday, September 11
Community calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Letters to the Editor; What is a school?
What is a school? Besides a brick and mortar building, a school is a place of learning. But, it is more than that.
Letters to the Editor; Value of a sheriff
Dear Editor,
Better public land management is possible; An update from Sen. Fielder
People who prefer federal control are trying to convince everyone that Montanans would sell all the public lands if we are put in charge of them. No chance. Popularity for transferring control of federal public lands to the state is growing because of the inability of the federal government to manage these lands, or much of anything else, responsibly.
St. Regis Clinic
The clinic in St. Regis has been closed since the beginning of 2014 after it failed to receive enough patients to stay afloat.
Future uncertain for St. Regis clinic
ST. REGIS – An ill-fated venture in St. Regis may be settled in court after the dissolution of the medical clinic in the community earlier this year.
Counties put their heads together for solution
SUPERIOR – Regional resources from as far away as Lake County are joining forces with Mineral County resources to foster economic development in Western Montana as demonstrated by a visit to the county commissioner meeting Friday, Aug. 29 from a representative of a state program.
Visitor center
John Cheesman, left, and Glenn Koepke refill brochures at the St. Regis Visitor Information Center.
Visitor center struggling to stay open
ST. REGIS – Visitors to the St. Regis area who want information about recreational activities and tourist sites may find themselves without a central location that provides such information if funding for the visitor center isn’t found for next year.
Local author's book published
ST. REGIS – On a snowy night in St. Regis, two days after Christmas Day in 1976, 26 year old Mineral County Sheriff’s Deputy Bill Sansom answered a call that would forever alter the course of his life.
Sheriff-elect to start anti-drug programs
MINERAL COUNTY – Along with the new sheriff in town will be coming new efforts to curb the use of illegal drugs and alcohol among students in Mineral County schools.
Alberton plays second game
An Alberton Panther stiff arms a St. Regis Tiger during a game earlier in the season.
Wednesday, September 10
Hailey Phillips
Senior Hailey Phillips serves during the Trotters match against Florence last weekend.
Trotters face visiting Falcons at home
PLAINS – The Plains Trotters Volleyball squad fought hard but was defeated in the team’s home opener over the weekend.
Horsemen begin season
SHELBY – The Plains Horsemen football team traveled five hours east to kick off their season against the Shelby Coyotes last week.
Touchdown
Fullback Nate Grey hauls in a deep touchdown pass from quarterback Tanner Hoff during the big win for Hot Springs.
Savage Heat top Titans
HOT SPRINGS – The Hot Springs Savage Heat football team got their season off on the right foot last Saturday routing the visiting Tri-City Titans.
Block at the net
Shey Hannum and Madison Wheeler block a shot during their home opener against Loyola.
Thompson Falls hosts Loyola
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks fell to Loyola Sacred Heart at their first home match of the year. Although they put their all on the court, it wasn’t enough to edge ahead of their competition.
Noxon gains experience
NOXON – With little experience on the field and 22 boys on the team, the Red Devils of Noxon have some learning to do on the field, something they had their first taste of on Friday, Sept. 5.
Hot Springs beats Two Eagle River
HOT SPRINGS – The Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat took care of business on the road last weekend earning a victory after a tough five set match against Two Eagle River.
Missoula Coaches Invitational
Will VanHuss and Xavier Broderick from Thompson Falls run during the Missoula Coaches Invitational.
Cross country teams run in Missoula
MISSOULA - The Plains and Thompson Falls cross country teams continued to build on their earlier season success with a strong performance in Missoula last week.
Trais Hoisington
Trais Hoisington plans his next step during the Thompson Falls football game against Cut Bank.
Bluehawks face off with Cut Bank
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawks had their first taste of a home game against Cut Bank, who proved to be a strong front.
Lady Red Devils continue win streak vs St. Regis
NOXON – The Lady Red Devils have tasted success during their early season, defeating St. Regis and Troy.
Town to eliminate family pass
PLAINS – Now that summer is over and kids are back in school, the Plains Town Council discussed changes that may be implemented at the pool for the next year to come.
I'd Rather Be Fishing
The sun ducks behind the mountains and lights up the Clark Fork River while Marcin Tomtas tries his luck with the smallmouth bass.
Tuesday, September 9
Woman struck by car, condition unknown
PLAINS - A woman was transported to Clark Fork Valley Hospital after she was struck by a car on East Stanton Street in Plains.
Samaritans step in
MINERAL COUNTY - The Board of Directors of Five Valleys Crimestoppers, which also serves Mineral County, would like to recognize numerous citizens who recently aided an assault victim and apprehended the assailant.
Proper way to buckle up
“We were only going to the grocery store ...” “He hates to ride in his car seat, so just this once I didn’t make him ...” “She was having a meltdown, so I took her out of her seat for a minute to calm her down.” Traffic safety experts hear these words all too often from distraught parents after tragedy has struck. Remember, a one-time lapse in consistent car seat use can result in a lifetime of regret.
New sign for St. Regis
ST. REGIS – Visitors to St. Regis and residents wanting to know about upcoming events and activities in the area will soon have a new fixture to inform them after the old option is replaced by a bright, colorful LED sign planned for this fall.
Lady bobcats
Marissa Koke, center in mid-air, prepares to spike the ball against Arlee at a match last week.
High-flying Bobcats play Arlee
SUPERIOR – The Superior High School volleyball team is starting to pick up steam this season, having gained some much needed experience in the first few games of the season.
Panthers and Tigers, oh my!
In other Mineral County volleyball action, St. Regis was defeated by Noxon three to one. The loss was not without an upside as one player demonstrated some significant offensive domination on the court. Gabby Moeller had 21 kills, three blocks and seven digs for the Lady Tigers.
Jack Lehl
Alberton quarterback Jack Lehl rushes the ball for a touchdown against St. Regis during the season opener for both teams.
Defense shows up for Alberton vs. Bridger
In other Mineral County football action, the Alberton Panthers lost their second game of the season against Bridger but the team did show signs of promise for the future.
Goal line stand
Seth West #89, left, drops an Arlee player while Josh Benda #21 wraps up another Warrior on the goal line during the Bobcat's season opener in Arlee last Friday.
Bobcats face off against Arlee in opener
ARLEE – The Superior Bobcats suffered a tough loss against the Warriors of Arlee Friday, Sept. 5 as the team dropped their season opener on the road with a final score of 68 to 34.
Peter Waldy
Peter Waldy teaches his algebra class at the Superior High School last week.
Plugging the brain drain
SUPERIOR – As other rural communities across the country experience a phenomenon known as “rural brain drain,”when 18 to 25 year old residents leave their hometowns for higher education and never return, Mineral County is experiencing exactly the opposite in one case.
Bright lights for St. Regis
St. Regis Community Council Secretary Glenn Koepke points out burned out LED bulbs on new signs or reader boards which will be installed soon.
Friday, September 5
Births; Shamus Tillman Kirschbaum
Shamus Tillman Kirschbaum was born on Aug. 24, 2014 at 9:57 a.m. at Womack Army Medical Hospital in Fort Bragg, NC. He weighed 7 pounds and 15 ounces and was 22 inches long. Parents are Shamus and Ivette Kirschbaum of Autryville, NC. Grandparents are Ben and Debbi Kirschbaum of Plains.
Births; Matthew Owen Underhill
PLAINS – Matthew Owen Underhill was born on Aug. 22, 2014 at 9:05 p.m. He weighed 6 pounds and 14 ounces and was 19.25 inches long. Parents are Andrea Fay Underhill and Luke Andrew Underhill. Maternal grandparents are Brock and Carol Lint of St. Albert, AB. Paternal grandparents are Ron and Gail Underhill from Kennewick, WA. Great-grandparents are Elizabeth Lint of Edmonton, AB, Elaine Underhill of Spokane, WA, and Janet Thornton from Kennewick, WA.
Court records
Sanders County Justice Court week of 8/19 to 8/25.
Community calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Avista offers local scholarships
SANDERS COUNTY - Once again, a total of up to $7,500 will be granted to qualified local youth organizations this year as part of the Avista Fund. This is the fifth year that Avista will award grants from the Avista Fund to directly benefit the people who live in and around Sanders County.
SCSO talks budget, changes
THOMPSON FALLS – A number of issues were covered on Wednesday morning at the Sanders County Courthouse as the monthly sheriff’s update was held in the building’s conference room.
Elevate Youth Council
Greg Wadsworth of Thompson Falls, Jena Paterson of Plains and Ashley Cheesman of St. Regis made their way to Orlando for the Community Anti Drug Coalitions of Americas' National Youth Leadership Initiative Track.
Elevate Youth return with lessons learned
SANDERS COUNTY - The student leadership of the Elevate Youth Coalition, which includes Greg Wadsworth of Thompson Falls, Jena Paterson of Plains and Ashley Cheesman of St. Regis, had a long week of sun, rain and strategic planning. Each of the students traveled to Orlando, Florida to take part in the Community Anti Drug Coalitions of Americas’ National Youth Leadership Initiative Track.
Lewis and Clark Whitewater
Fame Lopez stands in front of a raft. The new Plains business, Lewis and Clark Whitewater, opened its doors on July 22.
New business ready to hit the waters of Sanders County
PLAINS – A new business focusing on the outdoor activities offered by the rivers of Sanders County has come to Plains, looking to cater to both residents and tourists passing through the region.
Illegal fish transportation found in Thompson Falls
THOMPSON FALLS – A few instances of the illegal transportation of live fish by anglers have been discovered outside of Thompson Falls.
4-H Shows
Jackson Woods shows off his dog during the 4-H dog show.
Thursday, September 4
Community calendar
Open Gym at Plains
Letter to the Editor; The bottom line
Why does the US and the other responsible nations continue to flounder in addressing international terrorism? Why, when obviously a different strategy is called for?
An update from Rep. Ingraham
Patriot Day falls on the 11th of September, 2014 (also commonly known as ‘Nine-Eleven’) and is remembered globally as the anniversary of the catastrophic terrorist attacks on the USA that fell on September 11, 2001. An event that touched all our lives in some way, not to be forgotten.
Group gains support
SUPERIOR – A non-profit group calling itself Open Doors is gaining support for its plan to revitalize parts of Mineral County while some remain cautiously skeptical about the group who has been reluctant to release information about the organization in the past.
Internet safety class taught
SUPERIOR – Students from grades seven to twelve in the Superior School District have the opportunity to utilize a program unique in Mineral County but that privilege comes with some strict and necessary guidelines to protect their safety and keep them on task in the classroom.
Big Sky Motel
The staff of the Big Sky Motel celebrate two years in a row of attaining the TripAdvisor award of excellence.
Business receives award
SUPERIOR – A venerable business in Superior has been recognized for the second year in a row as a leader in the hospitality industry by one of most popular travel websites in the world.
Grants available to county
SUPERIOR – Regional resources from as far away as Lake County are joining forces with Mineral County resources to foster economic development in western Montana as demonstrated by a visit to the county commissioner meeting Friday, Aug. 29 from a representative of a state program.
Superior school holds open house
SUPERIOR – The Superior School District hosted an open house event on Tuesday, Aug. 26, in order to provide parents and students with important information prior to the start of classes on Wednesday, Aug. 27.
Football season
Panthers and Tigers collide during a play in the first game of the 2014-2015 season.
Debate over canines
SUPERIOR – A misunderstanding over a decision made by Mineral County Commissioners regarding the presence of dogs in the emergency services dispatch center in Superior set off a debate at the commissioner’s meeting Friday, Aug. 29.
Wednesday, September 3
Demo night
Cars smashed their way through the night as the annual Demolition Derby closed out the Sanders County Fair.
Demolition Derby roars through the night
PLAINS – Tires kicked up mud and vehicles careened into one another as the Demolition Derby was held on Sunday night in Plains.
Halpop recognized for community service
PLAINS – John Halpop, former MSU extension agent for Sanders County, received an honor during Saturday night’s rodeo. Halpop was recognized for the countless hours he has poured into the community.
Chicks n' Chaps
Cindy Gray of Plains rides the bull, while bullfighter Lyndel Runyan controls the contraption.
Chicks n' Chaps sends out personal message
PLAINS – The group known as Cowgirls Kickin’ Cancer hit the fairgrounds with their biggest fundraiser of the year, the Chick n’ Chaps event, bringing the impact of cancer closer to home than ever.
Thompson Falls Football
After a loss to Florence the Bluehawks will be working to improve their offensive game during upcoming practices.
Bluehawks fight hard
THOMPSON FALLS – The Bluehawks faced their first opponent of the year, gaining ground and fighting to the end with all of their hearts.
Lady Hawks win tournament
THOMPSON FALLS – The Lady Hawks put on quite the performance at the Mission tournament, bringing home a Class B win for the team.
Mission Invitational Tournament
Kayla Holmes practices her serving technique during a preseason workout in late July.
Plains competes at Mission Invitational
ST. IGNATIUS – The Plains Trotters volleyball team got their fall season underway at the Mission Invitational Tournament last weekend.
Clark Fork Valley Hospital Foundation
Barry Fowler walks down the fairway of the Wild Horse Plains Golf Course's first hole during the CFVH Foundation benefit last Sunday.
CFVH Foundation holds benefit tournament
PLAINS – A group of golfers took some time out of their Labor Day weekends to contribute to the community at the Wild Horse Plains Golf Course.
Plains Time Trial
Runners from the Plains, Thompson Falls and Arlee Cross Country teams run down River Road East in Plains.
Plains Time Trial kicks off season
PLAINS - As has become a tradition during the Sanders County Fair, the Plains Cross Country Time Trials were held on Friday morning, Starting and finishing at the Plains Bible Chapel. The three-mile route led runners on Combest Creek Road, Nelson Lane and River Road East - together with paths and trails within the Nelson Ranch.
4-Hers
Claire McAllister shows off her rabbit during the 4-H rabbit show.
Fair is another success
PLAINS – The town of Plains ballooned in population as the Sanders County Fair hit the area in full swing. The usually peaceful streets saw an increase of traffic as this year’s fair-goers headed to ride carnival rides, eat fair food and take part in the events scheduled.
Cowgirls Kickin' Cancer
Julie White of Hot Springs works on her technique during the rodeo clinic. The clinic has become a staple event for the Chicks n' Chaps event.
Tuesday, September 2
Local student part of coalition
MINERAL COUNTY - The student leadership of the Elevate Youth Coalition, which includes Greg Wadsworth of Thompson Falls, Jena Paterson of Plains and Ashley Cheesman of St. Regis, had a long week of sun, rain and strategic planning. Each of the students traveled to Orlando, Florida to take part in the Community Anti Drug Coalitions of Americas’ National Youth Leadership Initiative Track.
Jeremy Haig
Jeremy Haig recently took second place in a summer reading contest in St. Regis.
Library offers more than just books
ST. REGIS - On Tuesday and Thursday afternoons in St. Regis, area residents including young children and adults have a place where they can gather, socialize, play games and use the internet and it’s not a coffee shop or other private wifi enabled establishment.
Forest Service project on national radar
MINERAL COUNTY – A Forest Service project in Mineral County over half a decade in the making has turned heads at a national level according to one F.S. official and is in the final stages of approval.
PEAK Foundation
Conner Carpenter takes a swing during a baseball game hosted by the PEAK foundation in Alberton.
Alberton's PEAK foundation receives grant
ALBERTON – An organization devoted to providing constructive opportunities and activities for Alberton youths has received a grant which organizers say will help them continue their work.
Volleyball teams compete in Drummond
DRUMMOND – All three Mineral County volleyball teams started their seasons out with not one or two games but eight back-to-back matches at the Drummond tournament last weekend.
St. Regis Tigers
Andrew Managhan of the St. Regis Tigers sprints down the sideline for one of his touchdowns during last week's win against Alberton.
Panthers and Tigers face off in Alberton
ALBERTON – The St. Regis Tigers defeated the Alberton Panthers 50-20 last Friday, Aug. 29, in the first of only two games this season where a Mineral County team faces another.
Mineral County back to school
From left to right, Kaden Fawler, Turner Millender and Tristan Steadman climb on playground equipment during recess at the Superior Elementary School.
DeBorgia gets a post office
DEBORGIA – Residents of DeBorgia and Haugan will not have to drive all the way to St. Regis for their mail after a local woman took on the responsibility of operating a post office after a brief period of uncertainty regarding the future of postal services in the area.
