Ellington

Gary Lee Ovitt

Gary was born in Two Harbors, MN on May 28, 1942 to Wilfred Francis Ovitt and Mary Emma Coleman Ovitt (Pearson). He was second in a line of 13 kids. He passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by family on May 19, 2018. He fought a good fight of several health conditions, but finally surrendered to complications of diabetes and heart disease.

110 Sanders County seniors graduate with Class of 2018

Thirteen years have come and gone, memories of triumphs, friendships and growing up, now as one door closed another has opened for seniors around Sanders County.

Letter to Editor

Do the people of Plains really understand the so called final draft of the nuisance and junk vehicle ordinance?

Plains gets set to celebrate

Plains is set to celebrate their annual Plains Day like wild horses running across the valley.

Doug Browning takes the reins as new DNRC fire supervisor

The Department of Natural Resources and Conservation just officially welcomed the new fire supervisor Doug Browning into the position.

Death still under investigation

ON May 3, 51-year-old Thompson Falls local Matt Lafriniere was found dead after a 911 call to Sanders County Office Dispatch Center

Plains Poker Ride a big hit for local horseback riders

The Plains chapter of the Back Country Horsemen where thrilled to fill all 150 riding spots for their Spring Poker Ride.

Young athletes have fun at track day

The next generation of track and field athletes put on their best during the Plains Elementary track day.

Water levels expected to drop at Thompson Falls Reservoir

Northwestern Energy are advising recreation water users to be cautious, remove docks and boats as reservoir levels at Thompson Falls are set to drop.

Tick season is back; take precautions

As spring turns to summer, Montanans and tourists are beginning to venture farther into the outdoors to get away from that hustle and bustle of the work week; it is also signals the start of tick season.

Trout Creek man dies in Memorial Day crash

Memorial Day weekend ended in tragedy with a fatal single-vehicle car wreck near Trout Creek.

Scholarships awarded from DUI Task Force

The Mineral County DUI Task Force was proud to present this year’s Scholarship awards to two graduating seniors from the St. Regis and Superior School Districts Class of 2018. The DUI Task Force presented a $500 scholarship award to Anna Sanford from St. Regis and also to Wyatt O’Day from Superior.

Gary 'Jay' Hanson

Gary “Jay” Hanson passed away in his home in Thompson Falls, Montana, on May 21, 2018, after battling cancer. He was 78 years old.

Eco-stewardship leadership recognized Superior School District receives Green Ribbon Award

The U.S. Department of Education announced on May 16 that the Superior School District the recipient of the 2018 Green Ribbon Award.

Wildcat tracksters shine at MHSA Class C state meet

All season Clark Fork has boasted of top performers in various events.

State of disaster declared by governor as flood worries persist

Gov. Steve Bullock declared a second executive order this month declaring a “disaster to exist in the state of Montana” on May 21. In the most recent declaration, Gov. Bullock stated that, “flood conditions persist and have worsened in many locations since I declared a state of emergency to exist statewide in Montana”. His previous order was on May 1, 2018.

Thousands of bargain hunters attend St. Regis Flea Market

Once again people descended on the St. Regis Community Park to enjoy three days of bargain hunting as the Annual St. Regis Flea Market went into full swing. This event, called Montana’s largest flea market, brings in approximately four thousand people, said one of the coordinators, Anita Bailey.

Community Notes

This year the Superior Lions Club is seeking applications for both a 2018 Junior Rodeo Princess and Rodeo Princess. The Junior Rodeo Princess will serve along with the selected Rodeo Princess and this year’s Rodeo Queen Madison Hill. The Go for the Gold Rodeo will be held during the 2018 Mineral County Fair scheduled for Aug. 3-4.

Wildfires produce bumper crop of morel mushrooms

Several National Forests in Montana and northern Idaho began issuing permits for mushroom harvesting on May 7. The following units will be issuing both personal-use and commercial permits:

Heath Fair won't be held next year due to low attendance

The Mineral Community Hospital Health Fair took place on May 12. People were able to snack on homemade cookies and visit with health care providers and specialists in the Superior Elementary School Gym in the morning until noon.

Pilot survives airplane crash on Lookout Pass

A small experimental airplane crashed on Interstate 90 on Tuesday, May 22, around 2 p.m. on Lookout Pass near the Idaho/Montana border. The pilot appeared to be OK and walked away from the accident. However, he was taken to Mineral Community Hospital with back pain and some bruising.

Farris finishes season strong at state

All season St. Regis track star Ian Farris has become a fixture in the top-10 standing of various track events and his performance at the AA and C state track meet was no different Friday and Saturday at Laurel High School.

I-90 closed for two hours due to elk collision

A small SUV hit an elk, causing a chain reaction on Interstate 90 on Thursday, May 24, that led to both lanes being closed for several hours. After hitting the elk, a pickup truck hauling a camper, rear-ended the SUV and then a semi-truck hit the camper and jack-knifed into the other lane, according to Frenchtown Fire Department representative, Mel Holtz. Though his department was not on the scene, he followed up with a report.

One of county's oldest vets reminisces on a 'good life'

Down a winding stretch of Diamond Road, east of Superior, is a small home nestled in a pine filled canyon just past the old Diamond Match Mill. It’s the home of Joe Magone and his daughter, Diane, where a hand painted sign greets visitors and mentions her Bengal cats she once bred and sold. Joe was honored last Saturday during an Armed Forces Day celebration in Superior. He sat alongside two other veterans, John Cochran and William Merriman and Ryan Cahalin, a Superior student who recently joined the forces. In June, Joe will turn 95 and has the distinction of being one of the county’s oldest living veterans, having served in the Army Air Corp. during WWII.

Vets honored on Armed Forces Day

Patriotism versus Nationalism was a poignant point made by Sargent Chuck Lewis during the Armed Forces Recognition Ceremony held in Superior on May 19. Lewis spoke to a group of veterans and community members in the Superior High School Gym about what it’s like to serve in the military.

Superior's pool closed for the summer due to leaks

The aging Superior pool located in Eva Horning Park is leaking and can no longer hold water. Roger Wasley, Public Works Supervisor, reported at the last Superior Town Hall meeting on May 14 that he tried to fix the leaks but the pool continues to drain itself. There was a brief discussion about it being too late to try and open the pool this season. No final decisions have been made regarding whether the pool will be fixed or replaced.

Plains prepares for state track meet

The Plains High School boys, girl’s track team qualified seven individuals that will participate in various track events at the Montana High School Activities Association Class AA and C schools May 25-26 at Great Falls.

Trotters softball team gets ready for state in Belgrade

The Plains-Hot Springs softball team qualified for the Montana High School Activities Association Tournament with a fourth-place Friday and Saturday at Florence High School.

Red Devils post top-5 finishes in Frenchtown

All season, the Noxon Red Devil’s boys track had individual participants become a fixture in top-five finishes and those individuals continued to excel at the Montana High School Activities Association Western C Divisional Meet Thursday and Friday at Frenchtown High School.

Bluehawks' Beckman 4th at state meet

Thompson Falls golf coach Michael Bates had high expectations for the individuals who qualified for the Class B state golf meet last week at Eaglerock Golf Course in Billings.

Hoisington posts trio of top-5 finishes

The Thompson Falls boys track team continued to excel despite the level of competition getting more fierce at the Montana High School Activities Association track meet Thursday and Friday afternoon at Frenchtown High School.

Women's Club continues school house restoration

The Plains Women’s Club is once again picking up local projects, continuing the restoration of the old single-room school across from the Mangy Moose in Plains.

Butchers Nook celebrates at open house

The Butchers Nook of Plains recently celebrated with their second annual open house.

Prescribed Burn planned in Petty Creek

The Ninemile Ranger District, as part of their seasonal prescribed burning to reduce fuels, promote vegetation regeneration, and enhance the habitats for multiple species, may conduct burning over the next several days if weather, fuel conditions, and air quality allow for safe and effective ignition and burning. The prescribed burns that may occur are associated with the Petty Creek Big Game Ecosystem Maintenance Burning Project.

Plains Clean-Up Days hailed as a success

The inaugrual Plains Clean-Up Days was hailed a success by local council members.

Letter to Editor

As someone that has been a strong advocate for the mines in Northwest Montana to start, the latest move by our own state government to obstruct their development has me hopping mad!

Local team takes the win at Hack and Blast

Spring not only brings the warm weather and sunshine, it also brings the annual Hack and Blast to the Plains Trap Club.

VFW places over 400 flags at Plains cemetery

This past Saturday members of the Plains VFW converged to the local cemetery to place flags at the graves of those who served and are now resting.

Drivers walk away from 2 serious wrecks

Last week saw two near major accidents on the roads of Sanders County within days of each other.

Plains High Honor Society students visit Oregon coast

Plains High School Honor Society students recently headed on a trip to the coast to enjoy a few days after a big year of hard work.

Community Notes

There will be a fundraiser for the new pool in the Eva Horning Park on June 8 with a BBQ and Bingo. Dinner starts at 5 p.m. with bingo at 6 p.m. It will be held at the Mineral County Fair Grounds.

St. Regis BPA wins big at national conference

It was an event of firsts for Montana at the 2018 National Business Professionals of America Leadership Conference in Dallas Texas. Over 5,600 individuals from 23 state association attended. The Montana’s delegation represented 54 secondary chapters and 3 post-secondary chapters with a total Montana Association representation of 344 members, advisors, and guests. Business Professionals of America is the leading Career and Technical Student Organization for student pursuing careers in business management, office administration, information technology and other related career fields.

Shirley Mayo Hollenback

Shirley Mayo Hollenback, age 88, of Superior, Montana, passed away on Tuesday May 15, 2018 in Missoula of natural causes.

Terry Lee Lommen

Terry Lee Lommen, 62, was born on February 4, 1956, and passed away in his home on Saturday morning, May 12, 2018, in Alberton, Montana.

Plains track team piles up top-5 finishes

The Plains High School boys track team has emerged at the later part of the season with some top-tier contenders to make an impact at next week’s Western Class B-C Divisional Meet May 17-18 at Frenchtown High School.

Bluehawks track excels at Bigfork Invitational

The Thompson Falls boys track team appears to be peaking at the proper time as they prepare to head into the Western B and C Divisional Track Meet May 17-18 at Frenchtown High School.

Trotters softball gets ready for Divisionals

The Plains-Hot Springs softball team has set themselves up to be one of the four teams in the softball Class B-C Divisionals that will be punching their ticket to the State tournament.

Bluehawks golf ready for state tourney

Thompson Falls’ two top-rated golfers Else Brown and Dylan Beckman have received the lion’s share of the publicity this season and it’s been well deserved.

Plains High School student art show

The Plains High School recently transformed the hallway in front of the gym into an astounding art exhibit.

High waters cause limited access to fishing sites

Vehicle access is temporarily limited at certain fishing access sites in the Flathead Valley due to high water.

Sanders County school election results

Noxon District No. 10

Plains Fire gets donation

Last week the Plains City Volunteer Fire Department hosted Eagle Satellite for an impromptu meet-and-greet that also resulted in a donation toward the local fire department.

Death in Thompson Falls under investigation

On May 3 at approximately 1:55 p.m. the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office dispatch center received a 911 call stating an adult male had been found unresponsive.

Bazaar season kicks off

The bazaar season has officially kicked off. The Plains-Paradise Senior Center hosted the first spring bazaar for the year.

Montana Aussie Adventures with Erin-Jay

Sunshine, rain, flooding… am I back in Australia?

Sanders County gets behind Plains with flood water preparedness

Earlier last week, Sanders County Emergency Manager Bill Naegeli issued an Emergency Declaration for Flooding along the Clark Fork River near Paradise.

Garrigus selected to All-American trapshooting team

Jackie Garrigus was recently selected to the 2018 Lady II All-American trapshooting first team.

Fire department get some 'sweet' donations

The Plains-Paradise Rural Fire Department recently had a small fundraiser to help sweeten up their Junior Firefighter Scholarship Fund.

Council discusses flooding, new skid-steer, greenway

Last week, Plains Mayor Danny Rowan along with council members met at Town Hall for their monthly meeting.

Legals May 16, 2018

NOTICE OF SALE Department of Natural Resources & Conservation Timber Sale The Swamp Fire Salvage Timber Sale is located within Section 36, T20N-R27W, on the State's Plains Unit. Approximately 4,790 tons, consisting of mixed conifer sawlogs, are offered for sale. Sealed bids will be opened at the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, 2705 Spurgin Road, Missoula, Montana on May 23, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Bids may be hand delivered or mailed and will be accepted any time prior to the bid opening. DNRC recommends that bidders contact the Trust Land Management Division (406-542-4300) prior to the bid opening to ensure that your bid has been received. Bids must be accompanied by a deposit of $5,571.00, representing 5% of the minimum bid value of the sale in cashier's check, certified check, bank money order or bank draft to be applied to the first sale invoice for the successful bidder. Bid bonds will be accepted and, for the successful bidder, will be closed upon execution of the Timber Sale Contract and Timber Sale Bond. The sale will be awarded to the highest responsible bidder. If the successful bidder is unable to execute the contract within 30 calendar days from the date the sale is awarded, the bid deposit will be retained by the Department as liquidated damages. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. Prospective bidders can obtain the sale prospectus, sale contract and bid forms from the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, Trust Land Management Division, in Missoula (406-542-4300), the Northwestern Land Office in Kalispell (406-751-2257), or the Plains Unit Office in Plains, MT (406-826-4723). Visit our website at http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/trust/forest-management/timber-sale-information for upcoming sales and bid results. Published in the Clark Fork Valley Press on April 25 and May 2, May 9, May 16, 2018. MNAXLP

Leon Cordis

Leon Cordis, 84, died from cancer at his home in Georgia on Oct. 9, 2017. Leon was born May 18, 1933 in St. Ignatius to William and Grace Cordis.

Forest program brings additional $885,000 to Mineral County

Northwest Montana counties will soon receive more than $8.5 million in payments from the U.S. Forest Service, thanks to reauthorization of the Secure Rural Schools program. Mineral County received nearly $1 million in funding.

Ada Adelia Thiles Mesenbrink

Mom was born on Dec 26, 1923, in Panama City, Iowa, to Edward W. and Cecil M. (Kohl) Thiles. She was the third of eight kids (Darlene, Betty, Claire, Edna, Donna, Bill and Darrell).

Flooding threat Clark Fork reaches highest level in 100 years

The Clark Fork River in Plains reached 16.26 feet feet over the weekend. Officials say this is the highest the Clark Fork has been in 100 years.

Students learn about health and nutrition during annual Fun Run

Hundreds of grade school students strapped on their tennis shoes and geared up to participate in the Annual Mineral County Fun Run. It was held in Superior on May 9 and kindergarten through sixth-graders looped their way around Clark Fork and Osprey Drive near the Mineral Community Hospital. Kindergarten through fourth-graders ran the one mile course, while fifth- and sixth-graders did the 5K. Teachers, parents and community members were also welcome to participate in the event. Lower grades students were also allowed to participate in the 5K.

Levies fail narrowly in St. Regis school election

West and Farris voted in as new St. Regis School Board members

The levies on the St. Regis school election ballot narrowly failed on May 8.

Community Notes

As flooding continues around Mineral County, sand is available at the Superior town yard located near the Town Pump. Sandbags are available at the Superior Fire Department. Sand and bags are also available at the St. Regis and Frenchtown Rural Fire Departments.

Local track and field athletes make good showing at Districts and many head to state tournament

In high school track and field, teams finished up Districts and are now getting ready for State, which will be held in Great Falls on May 24-26. In Western District the top 10 ranking athletes include several Mineral County athletes.

Roads open for firewood cutting

The Superior Ranger District will be opening some areas to firewood cutting that are presently behind closed gates. These roads have not been bladed recently and may contain rocks or other hazards. The date of opening for roads listed below will be May 14th, except for the Borax area roads which will be approximately June 1st depending on snow. These areas are as follows:

Montana Department of Transportation proposes resurfacing project on Highway 507 in Alberton

ALBERTON - The Montana Department of Transportation is seeking comments on a proposal to resurface about 2.4 miles of Secondary Road 507 that runs through the town of Alberton.

Hospital Board trustee election results tabulated

Mail-in ballots were counted on May 8 for the Hospital District Trustee Election where Patrick Metzger and John Woodland won the 3-year term seats. Sue Hazlett was re-elected into the unexpired 3-year term and Anita Parkin won the unexpired 1-year term.

Gary Shelton Ivy

Gary Shelton Ivy, aged 62, of Plains, made his biggest ride yet, leaving life here on earth to motor onward into the skies on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 after a hard battle with cancer. Many family members and friends were there both in person, by phone, and in spirit to send him off with love and best wishes for a safe and awesome journey.

Wells Fargo Bank in Superior closing its doors

The Wells Fargo Bank in Superior will be closing its doors this summer, according to a letter customers received on May 7. Customers were told they could transfer their accounts to Missoula Wells Fargo Banks, but for many Superior customers the 60 mile drive to Missoula is an inconvenience and many said they will transfer their accounts to the town’s remaining bank, TrailWest.

William 'Bill' Obach

William “Bill” Obach died at his home in Plains on April 25, 2018 at the age of 96.

Letter to Editor

If you were a kid in Hot Springs what would you not want to do without: A BIKE.

Legals May 9, 2018

NOTICE OF SALE Department of Natural Resources & Conservation Timber Sale The Swamp Fire Salvage Timber Sale is located within Section 36, T20N-R27W, on the State's Plains Unit. Approximately 4,790 tons, consisting of mixed conifer sawlogs, are offered for sale. Sealed bids will be opened at the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, 2705 Spurgin Road, Missoula, Montana on May 23, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Bids may be hand delivered or mailed and will be accepted any time prior to the bid opening. DNRC recommends that bidders contact the Trust Land Management Division (406-542-4300) prior to the bid opening to ensure that your bid has been received. Bids must be accompanied by a deposit of $5,571.00, representing 5% of the minimum bid value of the sale in cashier's check, certified check, bank money order or bank draft to be applied to the first sale invoice for the successful bidder. Bid bonds will be accepted and, for the successful bidder, will be closed upon execution of the Timber Sale Contract and Timber Sale Bond. The sale will be awarded to the highest responsible bidder. If the successful bidder is unable to execute the contract within 30 calendar days from the date the sale is awarded, the bid deposit will be retained by the Department as liquidated damages. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. Prospective bidders can obtain the sale prospectus, sale contract and bid forms from the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, Trust Land Management Division, in Missoula (406-542-4300), the Northwestern Land Office in Kalispell (406-751-2257), or the Plains Unit Office in Plains, MT (406-826-4723). Visit our website at http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/trust/forest-management/timber-sale-information for upcoming sales and bid results. Published in the Clark Fork Valley Press on April 25 and May 2, May 9, May 16, 2018. MNAXLP

Flooding, Erosion Impacting Some Roads

Across the Lolo National Forest spring runoff and recent rain has begun to impact some roads. Some roads are also closed due to soft road beds.

Community calendar

Plains-Paradise Senior Centre lunches, at the Senior Center in Plains every Wednesday and Friday at 11:45 a.m. Free bus to and from venue

Trotters, Horsemen prepare for Districts

The Plains High School girls and boys track teams are approaching the most critical juncture of their season with the MHSA Class C boys, girls’ State scheduled for May 25-26 in Great Falls.

Thompson Falls makes the Historical Society calendar

Young Walter Dean III and an unidentified man survey the damage after a train wreck on July 30, 1915, near Forsyth, where flooding destroyed 600 feet of track.

Savage Horsemen wrestling receives athletic grant

On Monday April 2, Plains School teacher Debbie Brown was informed that a grant she applied for on behalf of the late Kenny Marjerrison was awarded to the Plains/Hot Springs wrestling program.

Wildfire season: It's time to prepare, prevent, protect

All residents throughout Montana are encouraged to participate in Wildfire Awareness Month this May.

Meet Whitney Tanner-Spurr ­- athlete, yogi, business owner

If you haven’t met Whitney Tanner-Spurr, there is a good chance you have heard her name.

Rita Haugen Stamm

On April 28, 2018, after many trials and tribulations, Rita clicked together her ruby slippers and left us for a more magical place.

Wildhorse Stampede split weekend action

The Wildhorse Stampede U17 soccer team split their weekend action in Helena with a 2-1 win against Great Falls and a 6-1 loss to Helena.

Thompson Falls golfers get ready for postseason

Thompson Fall’s golf coach Michael Bates knows how the turbulent nature of golf can be and that is why he follows the old sports cliché to never look ahead at his team’s schedule.

Clearwater Properties donates to Cancer Network

Clearwater Montana Properties in Plains recently donated money to the Cancer Network of Sanders County.

Letter to Editor

Friends, lend me your attention for a moment:

Softball captures share of conference championship

The Plains-Hot Springs girl’s softball team did everything they needed to set themselves up for postseason success.

United Way helps residents prepare for wildfire season

It was National Wildfire Preparedness Day last Saturday, May 5 and the Frenchtown Rural Fire Department teamed up with United Way of Missoula to pilot a community chip day. Crews were in the Sorrel Springs and Elk Meadows subdivisions near Frenchtown and Huson chipping brush and debris piled on the road by homeowners. These are efforts to prepare their properties for this year’s wildland fire season.

Local recycling effort: Too much of a good thing?

St. Regis Community Cleanup Days on May 5 and 6 was cut short when bins were filled by 9 a.m. Saturday morning. Two 40 yard containers had been placed by Republic Services at Mullen Square and residents were welcome to bring recyclable items such as old furniture, tires, and appliances. Truck loads of items had to be turned away, said St. Regis Resort District board member, Jessica Connolly. The bins had been put in place at 1:30 p.m. on Friday and she thought some items had been put there before the Saturday start time.

Letters to the Editor

I am asking for your vote to reelect Denley Loge as your State Representative in House District 14. As an advocate for Montana military and veteran issues for more than 35 years I have worked with many freshman legislators. Representative Loge is one of the best I have ever worked with on those issues. He is sensitive to the needs of our military and veterans and knows the wants and needs of his constituents in HD 14.

Great Horned Owls

St. Regis Prom

Girls Scouts thank local community for buying more than 2,700 boxes of cookies sold

Everyone seems to have their favorite Girl Scout cookie and it’s no wonder with the yummy selection offered each year. Thin Mints were the favorite sold by Superior Troop 3802, followed by the toasted coconut-covered caramel and chocolate Samoas. This follows the national trend where Thin Mints top the list with 25 percent of the sales, followed by Samoas at 19 percent, and Tagalongs at 13 percent.

St. Regis/Clark Fork High School Golf Tournament

The St. Regis/Clark Fork High School Golf Tournament was held at St. Regis on May 3.

Community Notes

The annual Mineral Community Hospital Health Fair is Saturday, May 12, with vendors who are excited to share their services to Mineral County. There will be live demonstration of telemedicine between Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Mineral Community Hospital.

Mineral County court report

May 1, Mohammad Adil Adna Aj Bayati, speeding

St. Regis student receives 'Youth Achievement' award

After living in foster care for six years, 19-year-old Kaitlin Jackson has begun her journey to help other youth who are in the same system.

Flooding threatens homes in region

Way-above-average snow packs have started melting into rivers, bringing flooding problems to the Missoula, Bitterroots and Blackfeet-Seeley-Swan areas. More than 800 Missoula residents were put on notice last Sunday to possibly evacuate in low-lying areas according to the Associate Press.

Dinner theater comes to St. Regis

St. Regis residents were treated to an evening of music and dinner on April 26, thanks to the school’s music department.

Students receive high scores at District Music Festival in Missoula

Mineral County students traveled to Missoula on April 20 and 21 to participate in the District Music Festival held at Sentinel High School.

T-Falls softball hopes for play-in game

The Thompson Falls’ softball team continues to gain learning experiences from each passing game according to Lady Bluehawk’s head coach Jared Koskela.

Bluehawks, Lady Hawks' track continue to excel

The Thompson Falls boys and girls’ track teams are saving up their energy for the final and most critical juncture of the season.

Savage Heat, Noxon track stars shine

Hot Springs track participant Tyler Carr has frequently found himself mentioned in the top-five finishes in the last couple of meets he has competed in.

River erosion puts Plains wastewater ponds at risk

A Declaration of Emergency was issued May 3 as the banks of the Clark Fork River behind the wastewater treatment lagoons in Plains began to cut away due to recent rain and snow melt.

Livestock Per Capita Fee Payments Due May 31

The Montana Department of Revenue this week mailed 2018 livestock per capita fee bills to livestock owners. Payment is due by May 31. Livestock owners can pay online at ReportYourLivestock.mt.gov or by mail with a check.

Sewage Lagoons in Plains are under threat

As the water in the Clark Fork began to rise the past few weeks due to recent rain and winter run offs, the banks began to cut away behind the water treatment lagoons in Plains.

Resurfacing proposed for 471

The Montana Department of Transportation is notifying the public and seeking comments on a proposal to resurface about 12.1 miles of Secondary Highway 471 southwest of Thompson Falls in Sanders County. The project begins at the Idaho/Montana border at reference post 22.1 and extends east for 12.1 miles, ending 11.9 miles southwest of Thompson Falls at reference post 10.0.

Thompson Falls golf gears up for divisionals

At the start of the golf season Thompson Falls’ boys, girls golf coach Michael Bates expressed his optimism about several of his younger players emerging as a supporting role for established star players like Dylan Beckman.

Lady Bluehawks, Red Devils excel in recent meets

Thompson Falls jumper Jody Detlaff excelled at the ARM Invitational Saturday at Whitefish High School.

T-Falls, Noxon track showcase skills at Top-10, ARM meet

Thompson Falls track star Danny Hoisington solidified his chances to be in the conversation for hardware in two of the biggest regular season track events of the year at the Top-10 event Tuesday and Whitefish ARM Saturday.

T-Falls softball team gets first win

The Thompson Falls girls’ softball team achieved something more than winning their first victory of the season with a 19-4 victory over Deer Lodge Friday afternoon at Mission High School.

Horsemen, Trotters track showcases talent

Plains track star Jessica Thompson has solidified Plains’ reputation as having some of the top throwers in the state as the two-time state champion placed first in the shot put, fourth in the discus and didn’t qualify in the javelin at the Missoula Top-10 Tuesday afternoon at MCPS Stadium in Missoula.

T-Falls boys track excels at Bluehawk Invite

The Thompson Falls boys’ track team excelled at both their own invitational Thursday afternoon and the Big Sky Invitational Saturday afternoon in Missoula.

Lady Bluehawks have strong showings

The Thompson Falls Lady Bluehawks track team had several strong individuals that shined in the Big Sky showcase Saturday afternoon in Missoula.

Gary Shelton Ivy

Gary Shelton Ivy, 62, of Plains, made his biggest ride yet, leaving life here on earth to motor onward into the skies on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 after a hard battle with cancer. Many family members and friends were there both in person, by phone and in spirit to send him off with love and best wishes for a safe and awesome journey.

BLM should reject plan that would destroy Montana rangeland

The radical proposal by the American Prairie Reserve (APR) to fundamentally shift long-established grazing practices on 250,000 acres of public property ought to be rejected by the Bureau of Land Management. Not only would the proposal cause destruction of rangeland and wildlife habitat, ultimately the APR represents a fundamental threat to the Montana ranching families who’ve made this area their home for generations.

Letter to Editor

Small history

Environmental Quality Incentives Program sets deadline

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service has set a June 1, 2018, application cutoff for agricultural operators to be considered for 2019 conservation program funding through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

Arrest warrant successfully carried out in Plains

Plains Police Department alongside the Sanders County Sheriff’s Office successfully executed a misdemeanor warrant arrest in Plains on Saturday.

Mussels found on boat stopped at Anaconda

The Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks watercraft inspection station in Anaconda intercepted a boat carrying zebra mussels last week.

Group responds to effort to list feral horses as endangered

Friends of Animals, a Connecticut-based activist group, is challenging in court the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service rejection of their petition to list the feral horses inhabiting the Pryor Mountain Herd Management Area under the Endangered Species Act.

Hospital to host Alzheimer's and dementia seminar

The Sanders County Clark Fork Valley Hospital is putting on a Alzheimer’s Disease and Dementia Care Seminar Scheduled this May.

Sanders County Recycling with Kathy Conlin

THE SAGA ON PLASTICS CONTINUES…

Plains Business Association shifts gears

A recent letter to the public from the Plains Business Association has tackled recent rumors of the group shutting down.

Flat Iron Quilting Guild announces raffle winner

Flat Iron Quilting Guild recently drew a winner at the First Security Bank in Plains. The annual fundraiser raffle drew plenty of tickets this year with all the names just about over flowing out of a laundry size basket.

Montana's tallest fish ladder is back in action

In a gradual journey up the lower Clark Fork River, trout are once again ascending the tallest fish ladder in Montana.

Community Calendar

- Free Seminar About Amateur Radio - Guest Speaker Sheriff Rummel. CFVH Community Room - Building 1 (Next to the hospital).Thursday, May 3, 6:30 p.m., Contact Gary Bruce - 406-531-4768 for more info.

Open burning season ends, permits required

Open burning season in Sanders and Mineral counties officially ended April 30, and burn permits are now required until fire season begins.

Hecla complaint against DEQ moved to Helena

The fate of a complaint Hecla Mining Company filed in Lincoln County against the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and its director, Tom Livers, will now be determined in Lewis and Clark County.

Idaho residents facing charges after chase

Two Idaho residents are facing charges following a crash in Lake County on Wednesday, April 25.

Washout closes Blueslide Road

Saturday April 28, the Blueslide Road just outside of Thompson Falls was shut down due to a road wash out.

Sanders County Torch Run a success

The 2018 Sanders County Law Enforcement Torch Run was another success for the statewide fundraiser that benefits Special Olympics.

Highway project proposed south of Superior

The Montana Department of Transport-ation is seeking comments on a proposal to resurface about 5.7 miles of Highway 257 southeast of Superior in Mineral County.

Legals May 2, 2018

NOTICE OF SALE Department of Natural Resources & Conservation Timber Sale The Swamp Fire Salvage Timber Sale is located within Section 36, T20N-R27W, on the State's Plains Unit. Approximately 4,790 tons, consisting of mixed conifer sawlogs, are offered for sale. Sealed bids will be opened at the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, 2705 Spurgin Road, Missoula, Montana on May 23, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. Bids may be hand delivered or mailed and will be accepted any time prior to the bid opening. DNRC recommends that bidders contact the Trust Land Management Division (406-542-4300) prior to the bid opening to ensure that your bid has been received. Bids must be accompanied by a deposit of $5,571.00, representing 5% of the minimum bid value of the sale in cashier's check, certified check, bank money order or bank draft to be applied to the first sale invoice for the successful bidder. Bid bonds will be accepted and, for the successful bidder, will be closed upon execution of the Timber Sale Contract and Timber Sale Bond. The sale will be awarded to the highest responsible bidder. If the successful bidder is unable to execute the contract within 30 calendar days from the date the sale is awarded, the bid deposit will be retained by the Department as liquidated damages. The right is reserved to reject any or all bids. Prospective bidders can obtain the sale prospectus, sale contract and bid forms from the Department of Natural Resources & Conservation, Trust Land Management Division, in Missoula (406-542-4300), the Northwestern Land Office in Kalispell (406-751-2257), or the Plains Unit Office in Plains, MT (406-826-4723). Visit our website at http://dnrc.mt.gov/divisions/trust/forest-management/timber-sale-information for upcoming sales and bid results. Published in the Clark Fork Valley Press on April 25 and May 2, May 9, May 16, 2018. MNAXLP

Darby travels to Superior for tennis matchup

The Clark Fork Mountain Cats (CF) had a tennis matchup with Darby (D) on April 24 in Superior.

April showers bring May flowers

Hikers around Mineral County can enjoy the colorful array of spring flowers which are beginning to shoot up in between rocks, near logs and across open fields.

Fire claims home in Petty Creek area

An Alberton family lost their home on Saturday, April 28, when a fire broke out that quickly devoured everything.

Community Notes

The annual Mineral Community Hospital Health Fair is Saturday, May 12, with vendors who are excited to share their services to Mineral County. There will be live demonstration of telemedicine between Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Mineral Community Hospital. This has become, literally, a life saver for patients in rural settings. The tele stroke equipment at Mineral Community Hospital has made a significant difference for several patients this year alone. Partnership Health Center-Mineral County will have their dentist on hand because many residents aren’t even aware that dentistry exists here anymore.

Hospital administration has brought positive change

To whom it may concern:

Ferris wins 100m dash at Seeley Invitational

Ground broken for $3.3 million project at Superior High School

Students, staff and community members gathered around the Superior High School gym under sunny spring skies on April 25 to watch an historic ground-breaking for the new addition to the school.

Alberton Principal Kyle Fisher resigns

Staff and students started their week at Alberton School without their long-time Principal and Athletic Director, Kyle Fisher. He turned in his resignation last week and April 25 was his final day at the school. Fisher had been embroiled in issues regarding his leadership over the past few months. He was put on administrative leave from Feb. 9 to March 8 earlier this year. However, due to his right to privacy, during the March Alberton School Board meeting, his absence could not be discussed.

Four candidates up for two open St. Regis School Board seats

Four candidates are running for two open seats on the St. Regis School Board. Ken Jasper currently sits on the board and his term is up along with Brant Moeller who is not re-running for his seat. Jasper is re-running for his seat along with three other candidates: Christine West; Mark Farris; and Jessica Connolly.

Four vie for county's vacant clerk and recorder post

For nearly 20 years, Staci McGrew has held the position of Mineral County Clerk and Recorder, a position that includes maintaining public records and documents including birth, death, and marriage certificates as well as recording relating to real estate ownership and handling election duties.

Current Medicaid cuts not major impact on Mineral Community Hospital

On April 20, the Community Medical Center in Missoula announced the elimination of 16 employees due to state budget cuts at the rate of more than $6 million. The majority of those cuts were to the Medicaid reimbursement rate, which directly impacts hospitals across Montana. Kalispell Regional Healthcare is expected to lose $6.6 million in Medicaid funding this year and Bozeman Health is reporting a $2.6 million cut in reimbursements.

Anaconda/Deer Lodge Invitational Golf Tournament

Anaconda/Deer Lodge Invitational at Old Works Golf Course

Community Hospital CEO steps down

Mineral Community Hospital CEO Ron Gleason turned in his letter of resignation late last week. Gleason has been at the hospital for nearly four years and brought with him over 25 years of experience with small, rural critical access hospitals.