Tuesday, September 22
Victory
Haley spikes the ball during Thursday night's game against the Ronan Maidens.
Thompson Falls Lady Hawks pull ahead in fourth set
THOMPSON FALLS - The Thompson Falls Lady Hawks took on the Ronan Maidens last Thursday in a five set match in Thompson Falls. The teams were evenly matched and both fought hard till the end.
Plains ordinances discussed
PLAINS - Wednesday evening, Mayor Greg Eitelberg and the town council held a special working session to discuss set-backs and town ordinances. Issues of clarifying, enforcing, and the possibility of rewriting an ordinance set in place for what the official set-backs are for the town were the topics of the meeting.
Plains wins
Leah Thompson jumps to block a spike from the Superior Lady Cats. Leah Thompson jumps to block a spike from the Superior Lady Cats.
Plains Trotters take the win
PLAINS – The Plains Trotters claimed a decisive victory against the Superior Lady Cats during their game Saturday.
Cole Benson
Plains senior Cole Bensen is the only member of the football team to join the 100-point club. This is his third straight time being in the club. Plains senior Cole Bensen is the only member of the football team to join the 100-point club. This is his third straight time being in the club.
Plains Horseman stays in shape
PLAINS – Plains High School senior Cole Benson was the only member of the Horsemen football team to make the 100-point club this year, showing dedication to keeping in shape and healthy for the season.
The consequences of elections
We are often reminded that “elections have consequences.” It certainly appears that was the case in Montana when on her way to being the first woman elected to Congress, the ego of one of Jeannette Rankin’s 1916 primary election opponents was so damaged by his loss to a woman, that he committed suicide. Really.
Saving Money And Resources Today: Initiative to save money through efficiency
As a twenty year classroom teacher, I’ve seen first-hand how schools constantly work to make their education dollars stretch as far as possible. From textbooks and lab supplies, to technology and instructional tools, Montana educators are ensuring that the resources that are allocated to schools are used in the most efficient way possible.
No such right: Montanan Republican party closes doors
The Montana Republican Party claims a First Amendment right to associate in a closed primary election where only registered Republican voters are allowed to cast a ballot. The Republicans can holler all they want, but if they don’t put it in writing – they have no such right. The U.S. Supreme Court said that political parties have a constitutionally protected right of political association under the First Amendment when the party states its associative rights in its rules [450 U.S. 107, 122(1981)].
Warren C. Bodeker
Warren C. Bodeker, born November 29th, 1922, Honorary WWII Vet, passed away at Clark Fork Valley Hospital on September 6th, 2015, at the age of 92.
Karen Jean Walston
Karen Jean Walston, 51 years old of Plains, MT died September 11, 2015 in Plains, MT, due to a car accident. She was born December 30, 1963 in San Francisco, California. She was raised in California and Washington and later moved to Missouri before her final move to Montana. She drove truck and traveled the country with her late husband Don Walston. She loved her dogs and animals, loved going to swap meets, loved spending time in the outdoors. Enjoyed hanging out with family and friends playing cards games. She was preceded in death by her parents Edward and Florence Fenwick, and her brothers David and Paul Fenwick. She is survived by her sisters: Linda (Donald) Lewis of Fayetteville, NC, Diane McAuley of Centralia, WA and Judy Fenwick-Miller of Plains, MT and her brothers Randy Fenwick of Grayland, WA, Jerry (Laurie) Fenwick of Fircrest, WA and Kevin (Lisa) Fenwick of Bellingham, WA. Boyfriend Vic Miller of Plains, MT, an uncle and aunt of California, and many cousins, nieces and nephews. There was a Memorial Service held Monday September 21st at 12pm at Church on the Move 300 Central, Plains MT, 59859.
Hot Springs volleyball
Sophie Jefferies leaps to spike the ball past Arlee's defenders during the Lady Savage Heat's game Thursday.
Hot Springs takes on Arlee
HOT SPRINGS – The Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat were defeated in their game against Arlee Thursday, but not before they put up an intense fight and made the Scarlets work for the victory.
Hot Springs teacher receives grant
HOT SPRINGS – Lisa Meuller, fourth grade teacher at Hot Springs Elementary School, recently received word she was awarded the One Class at a Time grant to fund educational opportunities for her students.
Sanders County Fair numbers
SANDERS COUNTY - The numbers from the 2015 Sanders County Fair are being calculated by rough estimates are in.
Thompson Falls Chamber meeting
THOMPSON FALLS - The Thompson Falls Chamber of Commerce held its monthly meeting Friday from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. in the First Baptist Church off of Main Street in Thompson Falls.
A young black bear
A young black bear stands up in in Robin Miller's yard in Hot Springs this past week.
Bears are preparing for weather
SANDERS COUNTY – Despite increased sightings of bears in the county and reports of them making a mess of people’s property, area game wardens are hesitant to call it a problem.
Wednesday, September 16
PILT funding critical to counties with shrinking tax base and growing numbers of visitors
County services critical for federal public lands -by Ron Walter, Public Lands Chair for National Association of Counties
Vets fight fires in Montana and other states
Article written by: Al Koss;
37th Annual Pilot Search Clinic
MISSOULA—The Montana Department of Transportation (MDT) Aeronautics Division’s 37th annual Pilot Search Clinic was held on Saturday and Sunday, Sep. 12th-13th. The clinic was based out of the airports located at St. Ignatius, Superior, Hamilton, Stevensville, Rock Creek, and Seeley Lake; and covered the mountainous terrain surrounding Missoula.
Mineral County 4-H results
MINERAL COUNTY - Mineral County Fair goers were treated with many different exhibits ranging from large animals, small animals, poultry, culinary, crafts, photography, art, sewing, home décor, woodworking, flowers, shooting sports, fishing, and several other exhibits.
Confusing candidacy
A couple of thoughts about our present politics which seem so unusual, chaotic and even confusing compared to what we usually think of as a campaign for our presidency. When do Americas needs and problems get addressed?
Justification for lawsuit to limit voter choice by closing primaries
Republican Party bosses - Senator Matt Rosendale, State Chair Jeff Essmann, and Representative Keith Regier - in sworn depositions and press releases, hope to justify why their lawsuit to limit voter choice by closing primaries has merit for Montanans.
It's time for equal rights for crime victims in Montana
It’s time for equal rights for crime victims in Montana
Small town boy big world
PLAINS - Last week, a Plains born and raised son came home for a week to take a break from becoming a well-known creator in the video game, movie and commercial industry.
Noxon takes win
The Noxon Lady Red Devils claimed their first win of the season, Saturday, in their game against the Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat.
Fight till end
Madison Wheeler spikes the ball against the Florence Falcons, Thursday evening.
Thompson Falls and Florence game decided in three
THOMPSON FALLS - Thursday night, the Thompson Falls Lady Hawks took on the Florence Falcons in an evening five-match game. The Lady Hawks gave a strong performance, but the visiting Falcons dominated the court and finished the game in three matches.
Victory!!!
Trent Brouillette catches a pass during Friday's game against the Noxon Red Devils.
Plains Horsemen take on Noxon Red Devils
THOMPSON FALLS - Thursday night, the Thompson Falls Lady Hawks took on the Florence Falcons in an evening five-match game. The Lady Hawks gave a strong performance, but the visiting Falcons dominated the court and finished the game in three matches.
Suicide rate high in state
MINERAL/SANDERS COUNTY – According to statistics provided by Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services Suicide Prevention Coordinator Karl Rosston, Montana consistently has one of the highest rates of suicide per capita in the country.
Love for science and theater
Rose Ayers and Kate Crouch pose with second graders in Rachael Cremer's class at Plains Elementary School.
Program teaches science through art
PLAINS - Second graders at Plains Elementary School are learning about science in a unique way this fall, after their teachers were awarded a grant to bring integrated arts education to their classrooms.
School supply drive
PLAINS - The First Security Bank of Plains saw success in their second annual school supply drive during the month of August.
Raptor Class
From left to right, Ms. Segura, Fletcher Segura, and Doug Ferrell looks at owl regurgitation.
Trout Creek raptor class
TROUT CREEK - Wednesday evening, the 9th, was the second to last of the Trout Creek Community Improvement Association’s (TCCIA) monthly Campfire Talks. Hosting the evening show was Brian Baxter, an Outdoor Educational Programs Coordinator And Instructor, of Silver Cloud Associates. For an hour and a half Baxter taught a small group of people at the Trout Creek Park stage about raptors in North West Montana.
Old Plains schoolhouse
The former Plains Elementary School, which stands vacant until Ordelheide Dentistry moves in.
Old Plains schoolhouse sold
PLAINS - After spending over a year empty, the old Plains School building has been purchased and is expected to reopen within another year.
Franklin Eugene Stone
CAMAS PRAIRIE - Franklin Eugene “Gene” Stone passed away August 6 from injuries that were sustained in an automobile accident.
Roger Howard Beckendorf
POLSON - Roger Howard Beckendorf, age 74, passed away on September 7, 2015, in Polson. He was born in Portland, Oregon, on June 3, 1941, the oldest son of Howard and Dorothy Beckendorf.
Karen Elizabeth Defa
PLAINS - Karen Elizabeth Defa, 57, of Plains MT passed away Monday, September 7, 2015 at her home. Karen was born December 18, 1957 in Galesburg, IL to Frederick Floven Clover and Marlys Newton. Karen served 13 years in the U.S. Navy. She had a love for animals and helping others in need.
Savage Heat dominates the field against St. Regis
Trevor Paro of the Hot Springs Savage Heat rushes the ball against St. Regis during Friday's game.
Hot Springs vs. St. Regis
HOT SPRINGS - The Hot Springs football team dominated St. Regis in their game Friday, claiming a decisive victory with a final score of 80-6.
The perfect conditions
MINERAL/SANDERS COUNTY – The damage caused by wildfires burning across the state of Montana and several other states in the region have provided a graphic picture of the state of area forests and the threat posed to nearby communities according to officials and experts familiar with the situation.
Estelle M. Wiltzen
PLAINS - Estelle M. Wiltzen was born August 22, 1927 to John Malaterre and Genevieve Ladoucer Malaterre in the Turtle Mountains of North Dakota. She spent her childhood in North Dakota and met the love of her life, Harris Wiltzen in Deering, North Dakota. They were married on August 22nd, 1946 and moved to Missoula, Montana where Harris went to the University of Montana. Their 6 children were all born in Montana, and they moved from Missoula, to Circle, Scobey, Malta and finally, to Plains, where she passed away on September 9, 2015 shortly after her 88th birthday and after 69 years of marriage to Harris.
CNSC to host annual event
Cancer Network of Sanders County is once again planning a great night of fun and games for our annual fall fundraiser. This year, the plan is for a trip back to the 50s and 60s. There will be live musical entertainment by the Rockin’ Hot Rods with a visit from Flamin’ Betty. Come dance and share in the contests (Hula Hoop, 50s/60s trivial pursuit, and best costume), prize balloons, bucket auction, and a live auction again featuring Mr. Kevin Hill. While you are at the Plains Fairgrounds Pavilion, you will also be able to partake of a wonderful Taco Bar catered by The Butcher’s Nook, and enjoy some wine, beer, soda, or water.
Christmas presents
The 240 Christmas boxes made during the Sanders County Fair.
Operation Christmas Child
SANDERS COUNTY - During the Sanders County Fair the Community Congregation Church hosted its “Operation Christmas Child” booth, which was used as a staging ground for children to make Christmas shoebox presents that will be shipped around the world to needy children.
Friday, September 11
Fatal crash on Highway 28
A rolled over vehicle on Highway 28. There was one fatality. No other vehicles were involved in the crash.
Superior elementary school hires new principal
SUPERIOR – In yet another example of the draw homegrown educators feel toward Mineral County learning institutions, a former student has returned to one area elementary school to help the facility continue its history of exceptional service to the community and its students.
Immunizations
SANDERS COUNTY - New state laws require that students entering 7th grade receive the tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) vaccine. In addition, students in kindergarten through 12th grade must have two doses of the of varicella (chickenpox) vaccine.
Community Service Award
Randy Garrison, left, receives the Community Service Award, Saturday night.
Community Service
PLAINS - Saturday evening during the Sanders County Rodeo, a Plains resident was awarded the Community Service Award.
Plains Trotters beats Noxon in three
After a hard-fought match, Thursday, the Plains Lady Trotters defeated Noxon’s Lady Red Devils in three sets.
Plains and Hot Springs square off
In their first volleyball home game of the season the Plains Lady Trotters took on the Hot Springs Lady Savage Heat, coming out victorious in three sets.
The brighter side
With all the seriousness, anger and chaos around us, let’s look at life on the lighter side for a moment with some smiles:
Are we too broke to pay attention?
Too broke to pay attention
What has become of the fair?
September 3, 2015
James Neal Ehlers
James (Jim) Neal Ehlers, 51, of Custer, Montana passed away on August 29, 2015 after a long battle with cancer.
Charlene Eitelberg
Charlene (Sherry) Eitelberg of Plains Montana passed away peacefully August 27th 2015 at home with family by her side. Sherry was born in Missoula Montana September 9th 1947 to Les and Arlene Sanders. She married Terry Eitelberg April 18th 1967 from which union came two children James and Jason.
Winning
Marsada Sweet shows off her pig during the Swine Show to a judge. Sweet won the Champion Senior Swine Showman Award.
Prize cow
Coby Guenzler pulls his "Grand Champion Market Beef" cow out for bidders during the 4-H Sale.
Rooster
Jessica Land holds onto a rooster during the Small Animal Roundup, Saturday.
Hold on
A bull rider goes for the eight seconds.
Cowboy boot
A cowboy boot through the bars of a chute.
Starting young
A father carries his son along the chutes Friday evening during the PRCA Rodeo.
Cowboy hat
A cowboy sits on a chute Friday night.
Taking a breath
A cowboy takes a breath during Friday night's showing.
Charge
A bull charges a rodeo clown during the PRCA Rodeo.
Bull riding
A bull rider rides during the Bullorama, Thursday evening during the Sanders County Fair.
Thursday, September 10
A cowboy stands against smoking
Above: Cody Kiser holds on as his bronco goes wild during the Sanders County Fair rodeo; Kiser has teamed up with the Oral Cancer Foundation to raise awareness of the dangers of tobacco products through the rodeo.
Cowboy with a statement on smoking
PLAINS - Tobacco use has been a big part of the rodeo for years; one participant of the Sanders County Fair is in the forefront of changing this, though, by promoting a tobacco-less lifestyle through the sport.
Air quality: A concern for those in healthcare
MINERAL COUNTY - As fires burn across NW Montana and much of NW U.S., problems have arisen for those with respiratory issues. Doctors and nurses across the area have been working with patients to help them fight the effects of the smoke.
A tour of the chutes
Lori Franzen, right, gives a tour of the chutes to Chicks n’ Chaps.
Chicks n' Chaps Organization brings in funds
SANDERS COUNTY - Cowgirls Kicking Cancer held the its annual “Chicks n’ Chaps” event Friday evening at the Sanders County Fairgrounds. The event is held to raise money for the Cancer Network of Sanders County, an organization set up to help supplement the expenses of healthcare and day-to-day living for those battling cancer in Sanders County. A portion of the money raised is also slated for the Clark Fork Valley Hospital Think Pink fund.
Wednesday, September 2
Bobcats verse Charlo
The Superior Bobcats were the only Mineral County team able to play their season opener. The team faced off against their rivals in Charlo.
Backpack donations
Hundreds of school supplies as well as some financial aid was raised by the program that began with employees of the Mineral Community Hospital.
Mineral Community Hospital leads community-wide effort to help families and students
MINERAL COUNTY - What started out as an idea among the employees of Mineral Community Hospital (MCH), evolved into a county-wide program to help our children, parents, teachers and school administration start the 2015-2016 school year with a little less ‘sting’ on their wallets.
A most interesting year
I just ran across probably the best comment ever on what is motivating people to support Donald Trump in the primary. It comes from Jim Hightower, National Radio Commentator, writer and public speaker. Here is what he wrote in an article entitled: “The Money Primary.” This is good stuff.
Women's equality years later
Women’s Equality 95 Years Later
Disconnect in reporting of fire costs
I am struck at the disconnect in reporting of the “cost of the fires” to Montana and the Feds - let alone other states... The only reports are of what it costs to fight and/or contain them until nature can help.
How to win hearts and minds in the Middle East
How to win hearts and minds in the Middle East
A message from Sen. Jennifer Fielder
SPECIAL NOTE TO READER: Recently I released the article below to the Sanders County Ledger with the headline “Feds won’t let state put wildfires out”. The Ledger retitled my article, “Feds don’t help firefighting effort”. This is an egregious misrepresentation of the content of my article (which, you can see below, in no way indicates that the feds are not helping firefighting efforts). Of course, the federal government has hundreds of firefighters and support contractors working the fires, many putting in valiant efforts to combat the blaze. My column points out, factually, that the federal government will not allow state firefighting aircraft to work on putting out the fires. With the state’s help, some of these fires likely could have been extinguished before they grew out of control, as the state of Montana has a stellar track record for stopping wildfires before they exceed 10 acres in size.
Bluehawks take the Wardens to task at home
McKenzie Holt of Thompson Falls takes a hard hit during a run against Deer Lodge last week. Despite a valiant effort, the Bluehawks would drop the first game of the season to the Wardens.
Thompson Falls takes on Deer Lodge
THOMPSON FALLS – The Thompson Falls Bluehawks football team took to the gridiron for the first time for the 2015 season as they faced off against Deer Lodge last Friday night at home but despite a strong showing from their defense and some great offensive plays, the team dropped the game to their opponents 26-17.
Concert to raise funds
Xolli Treble listens to the Black Lillies perform during the Sunday evening concert held at the Rex theater.
Sunday evening concert raises funds
THOMPSON FALLS - The Black Lillies, an americana folk country group from Knoxville Tennessee put on the last summer concert in the Rex Theater, Sunday night.
Preparations for County Fair
Makenna Smith cleans out a horse stable at the Sanders County Fairgrounds. 4-H members and community members from Sanders County worked Saturday to prepare the fairground for this weeks upcoming fair.
Crews battling fires across NW Montana
A Forest Service worker clears brush to help create a path for crews to create a fire-line to contain the Little Joe Fire near St. Regis.
Fires continue to burn in NW Montana
MINERAL COUNTY – Level three evacuations were in place last week for an area west of Alberton and south of Interstate 90 that included the Hole-in-the-Wall Ranch and several residences as the West Fork Fish Creek fire grew to over 12,000 acres and was threatening structures.
Food donations
John Harris, the owner of the Lakeside Motel, unloads food and toiletries from a Plains City Fire truck last Wednesday.
Sanders County residents give back
SANDERS COUNTY - Wednesday evening outside of the Plains City Firehouse a collection was held for the firefighters fighting the fires in Western Sanders County.
CPR trainees
From left to right, Bobbie Christensen, Lisa Wadsworth and Les Lantz practice chest compressions.
CPR taught for free in court house
THOMPSON FALLS - Last Wednesday, the Sanders County community was treated to a free life saving class in the Justice Court Room in the Court House.
A boy's will is the wind's will: Fire everywhere but not in your sector
SANDERS COUNTY - Thursday I sat in the back of a Ford Super Duty DNRC Engine as two state employees patrolled for fires and checked on extinguished sites. I witnessed first hand what it means to be on call for fire patrol, where your area of the country burns nearly everywhere, but not in your sector.
Plains city budget passed Thursday night
PLAINS - Thursday evening the Plains City Budget was passed.
