Big changes in Mineral County District Court

Kathleen Brown was sworn in as Mineral County Clerk of District Court by Judge Robert Deschamp on Dec. 29. She ran unopposed for the position in the Nov. 8 elections and will serve a four-year term. It’s a position she has held since 2006 and was happy to be re-elected. “I love my job and what we do here,” she said.

Hospital drops assisted living services

This spring Mineral Community Hospital will no longer offer assisted living service in Mineral County.

Rep. Ryan Zinke accepts nomination as Secretary of the Interior

Ryan Zinke, the Republican Congressman representing Montana’s at-large U.S. House district, on Dec. 15 announced he had accepted President-elect Donald Trump’s nomination to serve as the next Secretary of the Interior.

Hot Springs Library offering chance to 'Share Your Story,' create oral history

HELENA — The Friday after Thanksgiving is the National Day of Listening. The Montana State Library — partnered with public libraries throughout the state — encourages Montanans to record their stories, and those of their loved ones, as part of the Share Your Story Montana project.

White-tailed deer harvest highest since 2010 in west-central Montana

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) reports that white-tailed deer harvest reported through the Anaconda, Bonner and Darby check stations reached a six-year high with the close of the 2016 general big game hunting season on Sunday.

Mild weather keeps harvest slow in West-Central Montana

In west-central Montana, deer and elk harvest reported through the Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks (FWP) hunter check stations near Anaconda, Darby and Bonner so far this season is in line with this time in 2014 and down 13 percent from last year, due largely to unseasonably warm weather and only traces of snow. 

MCH exec appointed to state hospital post

Ron Gleason added another role to his position as Chief Executive Officer for Mineral Community Hospital. In August, he was appointed to the Montana Hospital Association comprised of 17 trustees, delegates, and officers from Montana.

Clark Fork Mountain Cats clawing for upcoming season

Last week it was boots and chaps, and cowboys hats as Mineral County residents attended the fair. This week it is cleats, tennis shoes, pads and helmets. As high school athletes take to the field and court to start football and volleyball practice.

100 firefighters battle St. Regis blaze

SOUTH TAMARACK — Firefighters are battling a 13-acre blaze six miles north of St. Regis using air and ground resources to set a perimeter around the area. Forest service officials estimate the fire is at five percent containment as of Saturday morning.

Money problems lead to job cuts

After weeks of contract discussions with no discernible progress between county officials and employees, Mineral County Commissioners voted last week to reduce positions in certain departments, in an effort save money.

Possible reductions in county work force

On Friday, June 17, Mineral County Commissioners passed a motion to have a reduction in the county work force in order to help balance the county budget.

Honors and awards celebrated at annual banquet

St. Regis Business Professional of America (BPA) and Future Farmers of America (FFA) held their annual member, parent and community banquet on May 20 in the St. Regis gym. There were 16 BPA members this year, and 42 FFA members.

Syrian refugees are not welcome in Sanders County

THOMPSON FALLS — The message is clear from the Sanders County Board of Commissioners: We do not want Syrian refugees on our land, “draining” resources, “impacting” the tax base, and possibly putting everyone in harm’s way. In an official letter addressing the issue, the commissioners cite a vetting process that is “foolproof”—meaning, one that cannot fail. Ever. And so, they have heard many voices ranging from Syrians are automatically terrorists to anti-Muslim attitudes—because according to many people, being a Muslim is proof of an egregious slight against the laws of God and nature.

Electronic billboards may soon be allowed on I-90

Electronic billboards was a main topic of discussion at a Montana Transportation Commission hearing in Helena on Friday, April 1.

Students educate one another to prevent tobacco use during 'Kick Butts' day

Opposition expressed to resettlement of Syrians

A hearing in Ravalli County that drew nearly 500 people to discuss a proposed letter opposing the settlement of Syrian refugees hosted by the Ravalli County commissioners sparked discussion in Mineral County about a similar proposal.

First Preparedness Day hits far above expectations

PLAINS – Residents from Sanders and Mineral Counties gathered in Plains, Saturday, for a series of presentations during Emergency Preparedness Day.

Spring's approach means greater bear awareness

SANDERS COUNTY – With February coming to an end, and warmer temperatures starting to arrive, wildlife will soon begin waking up from their winter hibernations and residents will need to take precautions.

Savage Heat: 71, Tigers: 24

HOT SPRINGS – In their final game of the season, the Hot Springs Savage Heat came out on top against the St. Regis Tigers with a final score of 71-24.

Agency may transfer refuge to tribes

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has begun negotiating a possible transfer of the National Bison Range to the Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.