KLTZ/MIX-93 Local News Archive - August, 2001


August Obituaries

Three Indiana Hunters Fined For 1999 Hunting Violations (8/31)

NWS Glasgow Weather Forecast Office Welcomes New Meterologist In Charge (8/31)

Eleven-state Management Plan Moves Ahead (8/30)

Sullivan Park Youth Fishing Pond Project Awarded Grant Money (8/30)

BLM Plans New Ferrret Release In Phillips County (8/30)

Fire Restrictions Enacted (8/30)

Judge Brelje Resigns (8/28)

Valley County Coalition Of Foundations Notes Tax Deduction Deadline (8/28)

Smaller Fires Also Keeping Firefighters Busy (8/28)

Heritage Wall Plaques Added To Pioneer Museum (8/28)

Raffle For Clock Continues Fort Peck Summer Theatre Fundraising (8/28)

Valley County Sued Over Land Sale (8/28)

Authorities Release Victim's Name (8/28)

Fire Near Jordan Is On One-thousand-100 Acres (8/27)

Poplar Man Killed (8/27)

Marketing Funds Available For Tourism Related Projects (8/27)

Fish, Wildlife & Parks Seeks Comment On 2002-3 Proposed Fishing Regulations (8/24)

Horner Says Discoveries Include Three Oldest T-Rexes (8/24)

North Valley County Fire Extinguished (8/23)

Alcohol Sting Business Names Released (8/23)

Commissioners Vote 2-1 To Raise Property Taxes (8/23)

Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Finalizes Harper Ridge Ranch Sale (8/22)

EPA Reaches Agreement On Leaking Oil Well (8/22)

Hospital Administrators: Rural Hospitals Have Different Needs (8/21)

Woman Killed In One-vehicle Crash Near Wolf Point (8/21)

Four Hundred Attend Groundbreaking (8/21)

Commissioner Erickson Clarifies Budget Decision (8/20)

Five Businesses Cited For Serving Alcohol To Minors (8/20)

114 Marijuana Plants Seized in Valley County (8/20)

Mason and Gilman Win Women's Fishing Tourney (8/20)

Baucus Cancels Two Rivers Meeting (8/20)

Malta To Participate In Tourism Study (8/20)

Senator Baucus To Attend Two Rivers Growth Meeting (8/16)

Chamber To Move Headquarters (8/16)

Relay For Life Passes Goal (8/14)

Highway Bid Awarded (8/14)

County Employees Get Raise (8/14)

National Guard Looks At 3 Proposed Bombing Sites (8/13)

Mixed Reaction To Raises For County Officials (8/13)

Phillips County Closes In On Hospital Goal (8/13)

Groundbreaking Ceremony Reservations Due Today (8/13)

Dry Summer Plagues Missouri (8/10)

MCF Grants Awarded (8/9)

Camelot Debuts This Weekend At Fort Peck Theatre (8/9)

Commissioners Table Property Tax (8/9)

Governor Martz Appoints Two New Members To Wheat And Barley Committee (8/9)

Valley County Commissioners Plan To Raise Taxes To Pay For Insurance Increases (8/8)

School Board Looks For New Member; South Side School Building To Be Demolished In September (8/8)

Albertson's Will Close Conrad Store As Part Of Company Cuts (8/8)

Nashua Man Dies In Rollover (8/7)

Four To Be Arraigned This Week In Wolf Point Drug Case (8/7)

Baucus To Attend Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum Groundbreaking (8/6)

Wisconsin Residents Vie For Biggest Burger Designation (8/6)

Baucus Says Funds On Track For Hatchery (8/6)

Fort Peck Businesses Hope To See Economic Boost From New Visitor Center (8/6)

Grobel Scholarships Announced (8/5)

Voice Mail Arrives In Northeast Montana (8/5)

Cameron Photography Dispayed At Pioneer Museum (8/5)

Commission Puts Off Decision On Highway 2 (8/3)

Judge To Ease Way For Indian Farmers To File Suit Over FSA Practices (8/2)

Fort Peck Tribe Sues Company Over Pipeline On Reservation (8/1)


Three Indiana Hunters Fined For 1999 Hunting Violations (Posted 8/31/01)

(AP) State wildlife officials say three hunters from Indiana were fined nearly 12-hundred dollars apiece for hunting violations.

Game officials say in October 1999, the three men spent five days hunting on the Medicine Lake National Wildlife Refuge. Officials say at the end of the hunt, the men possessed 90 birds -- over twice the daily limit.

Wildlife officers say another hunting party told them of 75 more birds thrown into a waste pile. Officials turned over the case to Indiana authorities, who interviewed the men. Game officers there say each man admitted killing the birds.

Officials say two of the men lost their hunting privileges for one year. The suspension is recognized in other states as well, including North Dakota, Idaho, and Wyoming. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


NWS Glasgow Weather Forecast Office Welcomes New Meterologist In Charge (Posted 8/31/01)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) National Weather Service (NWS) Western Region Director Vickie Nadolski recently named Julie Adolphson as the new meterologist in charge of the Weather Forecast Office located in Glasgow, MT.

Nadolski noted Adolphson brings 18 years of government service to her new job. She most recently served as the Science and Operations Officer at the NWS Forecast Office in Northern Indiana, a position she has held since 1997.
From 1983 to 1994, she was the the U.S. Air Force and held a variety of jobs including weather officer, weather instructor, staff meterologtist and commander of the Air Force's only European-based Solar Observatory in San Vito, Italy. Her next assignment was as the chief of the Space Physics Program at Scott Air Force Base, Bellville, IL. She then worked at the NOAA Cooperative Program for Operational Meterology Education and Training (COMET), in Boulder, CO., from August 1994 to October 1997. At COMET, she developed the Satellite Module Series and was a case study meteorology.

Adolphson will head up all weather forecase operations in the Glasgow area which includes 21 employees and two students. The NWS issues the severe weather watches and warnings that are critical to public safety. Additionally, the Glasgow office is responsible for public and aviation forecasts and weather support to various land management agencies for prescribed burns and wildfire activities. These services are provided to citizens in Dawson, Daniels, Garfield, McCone, Petroleum, Phillips, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley and Wibeaux Counties in Montana.


Eleven-state Management Plan Moves Ahead (Posted 8/30/01)

(AP) More than 60 people from eleven states, Indian tribes, federal agencies, landowners and conservation groups have wrapped up a two-day conference in Billings on managing black-tailed prairie dogs. The rodents are a key animal in prairie ecosystems, so important that they're a candidate for federal protection.

The co-ordinator for the multi-state conservation team, Bob Luce, says a final draft of a range-wide plan will be ready in a few weeks. It calls for the eleven states involved to manage about one-point-nine million acres of prairie dogs by 2011, or about double what now exists. Each state is working on an individual plan.

The chairman of Montana's working, Dennis Flath of the state wildlife department, hopes a final version will be completed by October. The working group will be meeting in Billings September sixth and seventh. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Sullivan Park Youth Fishing Pond Project Awarded Grant Money (Posted 8/30/01)

The Sullivan Park Youth Fishing Pond Project has recently been awarded $30,600 through a grant from the state's Future Fisheries Program.

The application was reviewed and granted Tuesday night after a conference call with board members consisting of a statewide citizens group representing Future Fisheries. The money will be directed toward the initial construction of the pond.

An additional $10,000 in grant money from Travel Montana has been received by the CTAP committee for supporting tourism related items for the pond. The fishing pond will be available for all youth ages 14 and under.

The idea of a youth fishing pond in Glasgow has been a real community driven project. Many entities, including the City of Glasgow, Valley County Commissioners and Refuse Board, Glasgow Chamber of Commerce, Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks, CTAP committee, Two Rivers Growth Group, Valley County Extension Service and Valley County Walleyes Unlimited Chapter, have donated countless hours and have committed themselves to the project's design and construction.

A few items related to the pond construction and maintenance are still under discussion, but with the granted money the pond seems to have gained momentum. The park site will be located just east of Bill Connors field in the Sullivan Park Complex. The proposed pond will open for public review and comment during the Environmental Assessment process which will take place this fall.


BLM Plans New Ferrret Release In Phillips County (Posted 8/30/01)

(AP) The Bureau of Land Management plans to release 20 to 30 rare black-footed ferrets in southern Phillips County this fall to start a new colony. Workers will soon begin dusting prairie dog towns in the area to eradicate fleas that could transmit plague to the ferrets. Prairie dogs are the ferrets' chief food.

The B-L-M has agreed to accept 20 to 30 of the endangered ferrets in late October or early November in an area known as the 40-Complex near the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge. The area has 15 prairie dog towns that are protected against hunters and poisoning by farmers and ranchers.

The B-L-M field office manager in Malta, Bruce Reed, says the ferrets will not be released if plague is found in the area because it probably would kill them. The release also hinges on whether enough young ferrets are available.

The U-S Fish and Wildlife Service offered to provide the ferrets. Reed accepted despite concerns that the one-thousand acres of the area wasn't large enough, and that his staff might be too small. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Fire Restrictions Enacted (Posted 8/30/01)

In an effort to coordinate wild land fire prevention methods with various counties in Montana, the Bureau of Land Management's BLM Lewistown Field Office has adopted an open campfire ban which began on Wednesday.

The ban specifies that:
1. Campfires or other open fires are prohibited except at a developed, designated recreation site or campgrounds.
2. Smoking is permitted only in an enclosed vehicle or building; at a developed, designated recreation site or campground; or while stopped in an area at least 3-feet in diamter that is cleared of flammable material.

The ban does apply to all BLM managed public lands in Fergus, Peteroleum, Judith BAsin, Choteau, Valley, Phillips and Blaine Counties.

These restrictions will remain in place until modified or rescinded.


Judge Brelje Resigns (Posted 8/28/01)

Glasgow City Judge Emery Brelje has resigned his position effective September 4th. Brelje has served in the position since 1996 and is leaving the position for a job with the State of Montana as a juvenile probation officer.

He has appointed his chief assistant Lee Hagen to take over his duties as judge until a permanent replacement can be named by the Glasgow City Council.

The Council's personnel committee is meeting on Thursday to discuss the status of the position.


Valley County Coalition Of Foundations Notes Tax Deduction Deadline (Posted 8/28/01)

The Coalition of Foundations in Valley County has announced that Montanans have until December 31, 2001, to make donations to a permanent endowment in Montana under the current tax law. The current law allows 50% of a donor's qualified contribution to go against their Montana income tax liability.

Under the new law to take effect January 1, 2002, planned gifts by individuals will only be allowed a 40% tax credit, and business entity and estate gifts will be reduced to a 20% credit.

Area charities in theThe Coalition of Foundations in Valley County include the Fort Peck Theatre Preservation Foundation, Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center & Museum, Inc., Friends of the Pioneer Museum, Inc. Endowment Fund, Glasgow High School Educational Trust, Hinsdale Cooperative Community Scholarship Fund, Long Run Fire Department Endowment Fund, Valley County Community Foundation, Valley County Historical Society Endowment Fund, Valley View Home Foundation. If you would like to donate under the current law in Montana, you may visit our Coalition of Foundations in Valley County page for a full list of eligible area charities and their addresses.

Recent projects funded by the local endowments include:
Provided scholarships to a Hinsdale and Saco High School graduate.
Hinsdale Cooperative Community Scholarship Fund

Helped to install lights in the parking lot of the Fort Peck Theatre.
Fort Peck Theatre Preservation Foundation

Helped to purchase safety equipment for firefighters.
Long Run Fire Department Endowment Fund

Provided scholarships to Glasgow High School graduates.
Glasgow High School Educational Trust

Helped to install a high-tech security system at the Pioneer Museum in Glasgow.
Friends of the Pioneer Museum, Inc. Endowment Fund

Earnings are reinvested now; but in the future, they will be used for operations and maintenance of the field station for paleontology at Fort Peck.
Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center & Museum, Inc.

Helped to provide operating funds for the Pioneer Museum in Glasgow.
Valley County Historical Society Endowment Fund

Provided funding to improve a playground at Head Start in Glasgow, helped purchase a wheel chair accessible bus for Valley Transit, helped purchase food for the Helping Hands Soup Kitchen, pledged funds for a tanker truck for the Long Run Fire Department, and will help fund a Lewis & Clark camp for Valley County youth.
Valley County Community Foundation

Helped fund resident programs, services or items needed at Valley View Home.
Valley View Home Foundation

Nine endowments in Valley County have joined together to form Coalition of Foundations in Valley County. Our goal for the 2001 fundraiser is to join together to educate the public about the benefits of the current Montana Endowment Tax Credit set to expire on December 31.


Smaller Fires Also Keeping Firefighters Busy (Posted 8/28/01)

(AP) Big wildfires in northwestern Montana and near Livingston are getting most of the attention today, but firefighters are struggling with several other fires around the state as well.

In the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness of south-central Montana, the Monument fire has burned more than 12-hundred acres. It was started by lightning. Officials have completed an evacuation plan and are developing a plan to protect buildings that might be threatened.

The Little Joe fire is in the same general area, on the Gallatin National Forest. It has burned 720 acres, and yesterday it reached into the northern edge of Yellowstone National Park and destroyed an unoccupied cabin there. Officials suspect it was human caused. A burned pickup was found near where the fire started.

A fire in the Flathead National Forest has burned 550 acres about eight miles south of Marias Pass. Fire officials all it the Ear fire.

Firefighters have finished digging lines along the eleven-hundred-acre North Sawmill fire near the eastern Montana town of Jordan. Natural barriers as well as the lines dug by crews ring the fire. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Heritage Wall Plaques Added To Pioneer Museum (Posted 8/28/01)

For those of you unfamiliar with the Heritage Wall Plaques it is a project set up by the Friends Of The Pioneer Museum to collect and preserve the histories of the people of Valley County from its very beginning.

But besides this very important objective the project also is raising funds with which to expand the Pioneer Museum.

If you would like to be a part of this program please feel free to contact Doris Franzen through the Friends Of The Pioneer Museum, Box 975, Glasgow, MT 59230 or call her at 406-228-2082. She will be more than happy to help you. For pictures and more information, visit our Heritage Wall page.


Raffle For Clock Continues Fort Peck Summer Theatre Fundraising (Posted 8/28/01)
Mike Hughes of Glasgow, left, created this oak pendulum clock to help raise funds for construction of handicapped-accessible restrooms at the Fort Peck Theatre. A raffle for the clock is underway now. Cindy Markle, center, and Linda "Shep" Allie have sold tickets at the Theatre. Tickets are available from members of the Fort Peck Fine Arts Council boards.

A raffle on an oak clock continues the fundraising for new rest rooms at the Fort Peck Theatre, Patt Etchart of Glasgow announced this week. She chairs the Restoration Board for the Fort Peck Fine Arts Council, Inc. The organization has owned the building since 1987 when the Corps of Engineers transferred the Town of Fort Peck to private ownership.

The Council plans to build the rest rooms in the parking lot area north of the building An existing lobby exit will provide access to the now structure and a hallway will connect the two. The now construction will be in keeping with the architecture of the building A grant from the Montana Cultural Trust will provide partial funding for the project and the Council will match the grant with additional funds.

Current rest rooms are original to the 1934 structure. They are located just off the lobby, down a short flight of stairs, and neither facility is wheelchair accessible. New rest rooms will be accessible to everyone.

Mike Hughes of Glasgow created the clock and donated it to the Council for use in fund raising. An active member of the Summer Board since 1994, his efforts this year focused on installation of the new concession stand.


Valley County Sued Over Land Sale (Posted 8/28/01)

Valley County is being sued by four county Grazing Districts and the Hinsdale School District over the sale of county owned land in May of this year.

The North Valley County Cooperative State Grazing District, Badlands Cooperative State Grazing District, Buggy Creek Cooperative State Grazing District, Willow Creek Cooperative State Grazing District along with the Hinsdale High School and Elementary Districts filed suit in Montana's Seventeenth Judicial District looking to null the sale of three parcels of county land and also stop any further sales of county lands.

The Valley County Commissioners decided earlier this year to start selling off the 42,000 acres of county owned land. The commissioners plan to sell off an estimated 4000 acres a year for the next 10 years and use the money to help with expenses in running the county. On May 22nd Valley County sold off 3979 acres of county owned land for a profit of $193,847. The land had been leased to various ranchers in Valley County with a majority of the money earned from the lease going to the respective school district that the land was contained.

In the lawsuit filed by the plaintiffs they contend that the sale of the county lands is void by reason of the failure of Valley County to comply with the proper statutes dealing with the sale and disposition of sale proceeds of lands held or retained by the County. They are requesting a permanent injunction restraining Valley County from selling any more county land and that the county continue to manage and lease county owned land as it has in the past. The Grazing Districts also stated in the lawsuit that if Valley County continued to sell of county owned land that the districts will suffer irreparable harm (and possibly cease to exist) if the Valley County is allowed to piecemeal sell off all the county lands which it presently leases.

Valley County Commissioner Dave Reinhardt told Kltz/Klan News that it's his belief that the county has no business owning land and that it's better to have the land privately owned and on the tax rolls. Valley County, pending the outcome of the lawsuit plans to sell off more parcels of land next year. The proceeds from the land sale in question currently are being untouched in a bank account awaiting the outcome of the lawsuit.

The plaintiffs are being represented by the law firm of Christoffersen and Knierim of Glasgow while Valley County is currently looking to retain outside counsel to represent their interests.


Authorities Release Victim's Name (Posted 8/28/01)

Authorities have released the name of a Poplarm man killed early Sunday morning.

Thirty-six-year-old Darrell Jones of Poplar died Sunday after being struck by a pickup truck east of Poplar. The crash is still under investigation. The Roosevelt County coroner released his name on Monday.


Fire Near Jordan Is On One-thousand-100 Acres (Posted 8/27/01)

(AP) Firefighters were fighting a one-thousand-100-acre fire in the Seven Blackfoot Wilderness Study Area 35 miles northwest of Jordan on Saturday. The Sawmill fire started Friday and was fanned by winds overnight and consumed about 100 acres of the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge.

The fire was close to some buildings, but fire officials say it posed no immediate threat. Several helicopters, airplanes with retardant, and ground crews were working to contain the fire on Saturday. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Poplar Man Killed (Posted 8/27/01)

The Montana Highway Patrol says a 36-year-old Poplar man was killed about just before three o-clock Saturday morning, when he ran in front of a pickup truck east of Poplar. No other details were available.

The death, along with 2 others this weekend, bring the traffic toll for the year to 157 in Montana, compared with 151 at this time last year.


Marketing Funds Available For Tourism Related Projects (Posted 8/27/01)

Missouri River Country will again have cooperative marketing funds available during the fiscal year of 2001 – 2002, which started July 1, 2001. These funds will be available to nonprofit tourism-related organizations to promote an area or event. The intent of this program is to encourage the development of new or expanded marketing or advertising projects.

In the past years these monies have been used to produce and print brochures and to increase advertising outside the local community. In fiscal year 2001-2002, matching funds are available for projects in Richland, Roosevelt, Sheridan, Valley, McCone, Phillips, Daniels and Garfield counties as well as the Fort Peck Tribes.

For an application and guidelines, please contact Kim Lacey at the Missouri River Country tourism office, 1-800-653-1319 or write to P.O. Box 387, Wolf Point, Montana 59201.

Application deadline is November 15, 2001.


Fish, Wildlife & Parks Seeks Comment On 2002-3 Proposed Fishing Regulations (Posted 8/24/01)

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks reminds anglers they have until August 31 to comment on the 2002 and 2003 proposed fishing regulations.

Comments will be considered in developing the tentative regulations that will go to the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Commission for approval September 6, according to Karen Zackheim, FWP Fisheries Division bureau chief.

“Anglers actually have a couple of opportunities to participate in setting the new fishing regulations,” Zackheim said. “They can send in their comments before the end of August as well as attend the September 6 FWP Commission meeting in Helena when the Commission will discuss and be asked to adopt the tentative regulations.”

Once the tentative regulations are adopted, the public has an additional opportunity to comment until September 28 at 5 p.m. These comments will be taken into account as the final 2002 and 2003 angling regulations are prepared and presented to the Commission for its approval at the November 8 Commission meeting.

The proposed angling regulations are available at regional FWP offices, license agents or by calling FWP at 406-444-2449. On the internet go to fwp.state.mt.us, select Fishing and click on 2002-2003 Regulation Changes. Comments may be submitted to Karen Zackheim by email: kzackheim@state.mt.us or by mail addressed to: FWP Fisheries Division, Karen Zackheim, 1420 East Sixth Avenue, PO Box 200701, Helena, MT 59620-0701.


Horner Says Discoveries Include Three Oldest T-Rexes (Posted 8/24/01)

(Bozeman-AP)

Paleontologist Jack Horner says his team working at Hell Creek has uncovered what are believed to be the three oldest Tyrannosaurus Rex fossils ever found.

He says they are 67 million years old, predating the oldest ever found by two million years.

Horner says they've also uncovered the most complete juvenile tyrannosaurus skeleton ever found -- one that is 90 percent complete.

Horner is curator of paleontology at the Museum of the Rockies in Bozeman, and was an adviser on the "Jurassic Park" movies. His Hell Creek crew also discovered the largest dinosaur skull ever found. They uncovered eight T-Rex fossils during the second and third seasons of a five-year dig at Hell Creek.

The Discovery Channel will air a one-hour documentary September 10th on Horner's work. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


North Valley County Fire Extinguished (Posted 8/23/01)

Local farmers, ranchers and 2 fire departments combined to extinguish a very stubborn fire in North Valley County on Wednesday.

The fire started about 12:45 p.m. on Wednesday; farmers with spray equipment and the Opheim Fire Department worked to stop a fire on pasture land and in a wheat field on the Fuhrman Road south of Opheim. With the changing wind direction and wind speed, the fire flared up numerous times. At 3 p.m. it falared up again, coming very close to jumping the Fuhrman Road.

The Valley County Long Run Fire Department was called in around 4 p.m. Crews responded with a tanker truck as area farms' water wells were reportedly running short on water. Long Run Fire Department responded with 4 trucks and assisted Opheim area volunteers. The Long Run crew returned about 7 p.m.

(Story courtesy Mike "Tank" Boyer)


Alcohol Sting Business Names Released (Posted 8/23/01)

Kltz/Klan has obtained the list of the businesses who were charged recently with unlawful sale of alcohol to a person under the age of 21 years of age. In July the Valley County Sheriff's Department ran a sting operation against 30 Valley County businesses. Five of those businesses sold alcohol to an undercover agent under the age of 21.

The actual business isn't charged with the misdemeanor but the actual person who does the selling to the minor is the one who pays the fine and is charged.

The businesses who sold to the undercover agent were the Oasis, The Crossing, Glasgow Elks Club, Fort Peck Marina and B & B Foods in Nashua. The individuals were fined $100 and also give a $45 surcharge.


Commissioners Vote 2-1 To Raise Property Taxes (Posted 8/23/01)

The Valley County Commissioners have voted to raise property taxes by $136,691.52 for the coming year to pay for increased health insurance premiums for county employees.

The commissioners held a hearing on the possible tax increase on August 7th but held off on a decision to raise taxes as they looked at other ways to pay for the extra cost of health insurance. At the hearing a small crowd of county taxpayers protested raising taxes to pay for the employees health insurance. Valley County currently pays 100% of their employees insurance. The insurance costs jumped $102 a month this year and the commissioners felt the only way to pay for the increase was to increase property taxes. The vote was 2-1 with Commissioners Dave Reinhardt and Marlene Erickson voting for the increase and Ron Gilbertson voting no.

This tax increase was made possible by the last Montana Legislature which passed a law stating local governments could raise property taxes to pay for increases in health insurance premiums. The tax increase will be in effect for one year when the commissioners will have to hold another hearing and decide whether to continue the extra tax.

Erickson's Letter To The Editor


Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Finalizes Harper Ridge Ranch Sale (Posted 8/22/01)

(AP) -- The Rocky Mountain Elk foundation says it has finalized sale of part of the Harper Ridge Ranch in northeastern Montana to the U-S Fish and Wildlife Service.

The foundation says the 960 acres in the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge near Glasgow provides unmatched scenic beauty and habitat for wildlife. The transfer into public ownership will permanently protect the acreage from subdivision and other developments.

As part of its effort to prevent possible subdivision of the property, the foundation says it acquired four separate parcels of the ranch in a land trade in 1998 with intent to sell them to the federal wildlife agency.


EPA Reaches Agreement On Leaking Oil Well (Posted 8/22/01)

(AP)The U-S Environmental Protection Agency says it has an agreement with Pioneer Natural Resources to stop one of the firm's former oil wells from polluting drinking water on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation.

The federal agency says Pioneer has 90 days from receipt of the order to stop the well from leaking. It's in the East Poplar Oil Field. The agency said the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes rely on the aquifer, which was found to contain high levels of benzene and other contaminants.

Benzene is known to cause cancer, and people drinking water with a high concentration of dissolved solids may suffer diarrhea and dehydration. The E-P-A says Pioneer has been commendably cooperative in resolving the problem but could face fines of up to 15-thousand dollars a day if it does not comply with the emergency order. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Hospital Administrators: Rural Hospitals Have Different Needs (Posted 8/21/01)

(AP) -- Federal health care policy, set in the city, doesn't work in rural areas. That's what Montana hospital representatives told visiting federal officials in Missoula.

They were invited to Montana by Senator Max Baucus, to see the problems of rural health care close up. They'll also be visiting Hamilton, Browning and Great Falls.

Bob Olsen is vice president of the Montana Hospital Association. He says the overriding issue they're trying to discuss is how Medicare policies, born of an urban way of thinking, can run amok in Montana.

Olson says health care costs more in rural settings, so federal policies designed in eastern urban areas often don't apply.

For example, he says hospitals are now struggling with federal reluctance to pay for air ambulance in favor of ground transportation. But in Montana, he says patients are transported far greater distances. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Woman Killed In One-vehicle Crash Near Wolf Point (Posted 8/21/01)

(AP) -- The Montana Highway Patrol says a 30-year-old woman was killed early today, when her sport-utility vehicle went off U-S Highway Two near Wolf Point. The victim's name hasn't been released.

The patrol says a 1988 Eagle Premiere was eastbound, when it went off the right side of the road and into the ditch. The woman was alone in the vehicle, and was dead at the scene. It happened shortly before 3 a-m.

Montana's highway death toll for the year now stands at 148, one more than on the same date a year ago. ------ (From Michael Lyon, KBLG) (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Four Hundred Attend Groundbreaking (Posted 8/21/01)

On a sun drenched evening and against a beautiful background of the downstream area of the Fort Peck Dam an estimated 400 people attended the ground breaking ceremonies Monday evening for the Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum.

United States Senator Max Baucus was on hand for the ground breaking and told the crowd on hand "We are going to make sure what we have here rivals the Museum of the Rockies." In 1998 Baucus was instrumental in securing $6 million from the nations highway fund and then had the money transferred into the Army Corps of Engineers fund. The Corps of Engineers are overseeing the project which will be located in the downstream area of the Fort Peck Dam Project.

Senator Baucus also announced that the Interpretive Center will be a part of the Smithsonian Institution's Affiliation Program. This means that the Smithsonian will loan the museum artifacts for short or indefinite periods of time.

Sletten Construction of Great Falls has the contract for the construction of the building and is expected to begin dirt work on the project in mid September. Expected completion date for the museum is set for early 2004.

The museum will tell the history of the construction of the Fort Peck Dam along with story lines of the Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge and a dinosaur exhibit which will feature the Tyrannosaurus Rex which was found in the Fort Peck area four years ago. To view pictures of the event, visit our Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum Picture page.


Commissioner Erickson Clarifies Budget Decision (Posted 8/20/01)

(Web editor note: the following is a Letter to the Editor from Marlene Erickson, Chairman of the Board of County Commissioners, in response to the the Commissioner's proposed budget increase.)

It's very difficult to understand a situation when you hear bits and pieces, so I am going to explain elected officials' salaries. The statute is that all elected officials receive the same salary, and there are ten - commissioners, clerk and recorder, treasurer, clerk of court, superintendent of schools, county attorney, justice of peace, sheriff/coroner. The statute then states that commissioners and the sheriff received an additional $2,000. The county attorney also is set differently. At present, there are two elected officials who are half time, the county superintendent and the justice of peace.

The clerk and recorder, treasure and sheriff have deputies whose salaries are based on the officials' salaries and can go to 90% or 95% for the undersheriff. The only way they can receive a salary increase is by an increase to elected officials or being raised to a higher percent deputy. We usually start deputies at 70%.

Repeating from my August 2 letter to the Courier - A few years back the legislature set a base salary for elected officials according to the classification of each county (we are a Class 2 county). At that time our commissioners chose to take only 80% of that set amount. In the seven years I have been in office, we have taken two raises, one to 82% and the other to the present 84%. The 2001 Legislature threw out the base salary concept so it no longer exists. However, we used it in our "thinking process" to consider a bump up to 88% (or a 4% increase), plus this year's 3.4% COLA.

The following are comparisons we made with other counties before we set salaries and now show the increases they have made for 2001-02:

COUNTY 2000-01 ELECTED OFFICIAL SALARY 2001-02 ELECTED OFFICIAL SALARY
Blaine $26,343 $30,192
Daniels $22,683 Undecided
Dawson $32,381 Undecided
Hill $31,357 $32,423
Phillips $25,432 $26,449
Richland $28,866 $31,752
Roosevelt $26,531 $28,840
Sheridan $25,908 $26,600
Valley $24,005 $25,814
 
Comparisons were also made with city clerks as follows:
CITY 2000-01 SALARY 2001-02 SALARY
Glasgow $31,928 $34,632
Fort Peck ?? $30,451
Malta $21,675 $23,524
Plentywood $25,875 $28,080
Sidney $24,003 $24,772
Wolf Point $29,785 $30,680

Five Businesses Cited For Serving Alcohol To Minors (Posted 8/20/01)

During the week of July 16th, the Valley County Sheriff's Office and the Big Muddy River Drug Task Force attempted to purchase alcohol from Valley County retail outlets. An agent under the age of 21 attempted to purchase alcohol in 30 different businesses. Twenty-five businesses refused to sell to the agent, while 5 were cited into Justice Court for selling to a minor.

This will be an ongoing operation and the Valley County Sheriff's Office and the Big Muddy River Drug Task Force appreciates the awareness and concern of the businesses and public.


114 Marijuana Plants Seized in Valley County (Posted 8/20/01)

According to Valley County Sheriff Dick Wessler, an anonymous report lead to an investigation resulting in the seizure of 114 marijuana plants from a growing operation in Valley County on August 18th.

Sheriff Wessler reported that his office received the information during the later part of the week. The Sheriff's Office initiated the investigation with assistance from the Wolf Point Police Department, U.S. Wildlife Service, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks, Montana National Guard and Big Muddy River Drug Task Force.

The cooperative investigation resulted in establishing the location of the growing operation and seizure of the 114 plants. According to Wessler, many of the plants had reached maturity and were ready for harvest. The total estimated weight of the seizure was approximately five pounds of marijuana with a local bulk street value of $1,000 per pound. No suspects were arrested at the time of the seizure; however, the case remains under investigation.

The Valley County Sheriff's Office is a member agency of the Big Muddy River Drug Task Force. The Big Muddy River Drug Task Force, a federally funded task force which receives funding administered by the Montana Board of Crime Control in Helena, is comprised of 13 city and county law enforcement agencies in northeast Montana.

Anyone with information concerning this case, other marijuana grows or other illegal narcotics activity is encouraged to call the Valley County Sheriff's Office at 406-228-4333 or the Big Muddy River Drug Task Force at 406-653-1093 or 406-650-7298. Anyone providing information can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward through Crime Stoppers or the Montana Marijuana Eradication Program.


Mason and Gilman Win Women's Fishing Tourney (Posted 8/20/01)

The first annual Montana Walleye's Unlimited Women's Fishing Tournament was held Saturday on Fort Peck Lake with 38 two-person teams competing for over $2000 in prize money.

First place and a $1000 check went to the team of Lori Mason and JoAnn Gilman who caught 16.44 pounds of walleye. They also had the largest walleye caught during the one day tourney for an extra $450.

Here are the rest of the top five finishers:

2nd place- Millie Eggebrecht of Wolf Point and Cindy Levenberger of Billings 13.8 pounds

3rd place- Mary HumberT and Sandy Maczka of Glasgow 12.76 pounds

4th place- Mavis Orvis of Nashua and Toy Olsen of Glasgow 10.82 pounds

5th place- Deb Thomas of Miles City and Gerry Thomas of Jordan 9.60 pounds.

The largest Northern Pike was caught by Glena Lockman and Vicki Hopkins of Poplar. The fish weighed in at 8.25 pounds.


Baucus Cancels Two Rivers Meeting (Posted 8/20/01)

Due to scheduling conflicts, Senator Max Baucus has cancelled his appearance at the Two Rivers Growth meeting at the Cottonwood Inn at noon on Monday.

However, he will be traveling Montana's Hi-Line this week with visits in Glasgow, Wolf Point, Poplar, Scobey, Plentywood, Culbertson and Sidney.

Baucus will be in Fort Peck tonight for the ground breaking ceremonies for the Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum.

Baucus was instrumental in securing the $6 million dollars in federal funding that is being used for construction of the museum. The museum will house the Tyrannosaurus Rex fossill that was found south of Fort Peck four years ago plus provide a history of the Fort Peck Dam along with histories of Native Americans, homesteaders and the Lewis and Clark Expedition.

Sletten Construction of Great Falls has the contract for the six million dollar project.


Malta To Participate In Tourism Study (Posted 8/20/01)

The communities of Kalispell, Malta/Phillips County and White Sulphur Springs have been selected to participate in an 8-month long assessment process designed to help Montana communities determine how tourism can help diversify and expand their area economy. The tourism assessment program is provided to the communities through the Montana Commerce Department's Travel Montana program, MSU Extension and the University of Montana's Institute for Tourism and Recreation Research (ITRR).

"Our experience shows that communities greatly benefit from the information obtained by going through this tourism assessment process", said Montana Commerce Department Director Mark Simonich. "For example, Choteau added a new hotel while Lewistown created the Charlie Russell Chew Choo Dinner Tour Train, both helping local businesses and creating new jobs. Kalispell, Malta/Phillips County and White Sulphur Springs now have the opportunity to strengthen their tourism appeal and economic health." Twenty-three (23) rural Montana communities have completed the program.

The Montana Community Tourism Assessment Program (CTAP) is a community "self help" program developed to assist communities identify what role, if any, tourism can play in strengthening local economies. Travel Montana and MSU Extension provide the process facilitators while the ITRR provides research services.

Through CTAP, a community follows an 8-month process of analysis, assessment, and evaluation. The process begins with a detailed program introduction and community organization. For Kalispell, Malta/Phillips County and White Sulphur Springs, the initial CTAP meeting will take place in September. The process continues with a comprehensive analysis of the community's current economic structure, its assets, and resident attitudes toward tourism, area lifestyles, marketing, and the community's existing and potential tourism resources.

After the initial analysis, the community and its assessment partners identify potential tourism products that can be developed in the area. They then determine the social, economic and environmental impacts, positive and negative, that are expected to result from this product development. Once the analysis and assessments are completed, the community determines what tourism-related projects, if any, should be pursued.

Tourism is one of Montana's leading basic industries. In 2000, just under 9.4 million people visited Montana. Annual visitor expenditures have been about $1.6 billion, creating a benefit of over $3 billion for the Montana economy. Montana's tourism industry has an annual payroll of $395 million and directly involves 25,800 Montana jobs.


Senator Baucus To Attend Two Rivers Growth Meeting (Posted 8/16/01)

Senator Max Baucus will attend the Two Rivers Growth meeting at noon on Monday, August 20th. Two Rivers Growth is holding the no-host luncheon at the Cottonwood Inn. Senator Baucus invites everyone to meet with him on this follow-up to his economic summit in Great Falls.


Chamber To Move Headquarters (Posted 8/16/01)

The Glasgow Chamber Board of Directors have decided to move the Chamber Headquarters to a new location after a vote Thursday.

The new chamber headquarters will be located in a new building being constructed by local businessman Sam Knodel.
Knodel's building will be located on Highway #2 by the Looking Good Hair Studio. The Chamber have been looking for a location now for several months and considered several locations before finally deciding on locating in the building being constructed by Knodel.

Knodel told the chamber board that he hopes to have his building constructed by the first or middle part of November. The building will also include the Glasgow business Prewitt Interiors.


Relay For Life Passes Goal (Posted 8/14/01)

The Northeast Montana Relay for Life raised over $35,000 at the event which was held this past Friday and Saturday.

According to Becky Stein, the Relay For Life Committee surpassed it's goal of raising $35,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Two years ago the Relay For Life raised $32,000.

Participants in the event sold luminaries honoring cancer survivors and people who had been lost to cancer and over 1900 luminaries were presented at a ceremony on Friday evening.


County Employees Get Raise (Posted 8/14/01)


The Valley County Commissioners have voted to give themselves and all Valley County elected officials a 7.5 percent increase in pay for the 2001-2002 budget year.


County Commissioner Dave Reinhardt told Kltz/Klan News that the elected officials and county employees hadn't received a pay raise in four years. All county employees will receive an hourly increase of 30 cents.

Here are the salaries for elected officials in Valley County.
County Commissioners: $27,814,00
County Treasurer: $25,814,00
County Clerk and Recorder: $25,814,00
Clerk of District Court: $25,814,00
County Sheriff: $32,718,66
Justice of the Peace: $16,130,00
County Superintendent of Schools/Assessor:$13,107,00
County Coroner: $2,820,35

These salaries went into effect July 1, 2001.


Highway Bid Awarded (Posted 8/14/01)

The Montana Transportation Commission has awarded a contract to the JTL Group Inc. of Billings for $3million dollars to resurface four miles of secondary road #438, beginning 21 miles north of U.S. Highway #2 in Valley County.
This road otherwise known as the north Nashua road will also see 3.4 miles of road reconstruction 8 miles north of the first project.
The work on this project should begin this fall.


National Guard Looks At 3 Proposed Bombing Sites (Posted 8/13/01)

(AP) The Montana Air National Guard is seeking public comment on three proposed sites for a practice bombing range. The sites are in the Fort Belknap and Malta areas.

Public comment will be accepted through September twenty-fourth. Public hearings will follow fly-by bombing demonstrations near Malta on August twenty-seventh and the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation August twenty-eight.

Lieutenant Colonel Bill Schulz says the Guard plans to announce its final choice in November. Construction would start on the 15-square-mile range in spring or summer of 2003. The Guard currently flies to ranges in Utah and Idaho for bombing and shooting practice.


Mixed Reaction To Raises For County Officials (Posted 8/13/01)

(AP) A new law is allowing elected county officials to vote themselves raises -- and they're doing so.

In at least 35 counties, the increases were two to five times as much as the cost-of-living adjustments given the past, and 16 counties voted raises in the double digits.

Although most counties have yet to complete their budgets, officials insist the raises won't cut into the wages awarded to other employees and won't cause additional pain to taxpayers.

Supporters wanted the legislation to replace an old salary formula set by state law that did not consider changing job duties or tenure. They say the new law is fulfilling its purpose.

Democratic Senator Ken Toole of Helena says if residents are unhappy about the raises, they can vote the county officials out of office.

Valley County Commissioners have proposed a 7.54% increase, but the budget is not official yet.

(Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Phillips County Closes In On Hospital Goal (Posted 8/13/01)

(AP) Phillips County is only 500-thousand dollars short of its goal to replace the aging county hospital in Malta.

The county received an 856-thousand-dollar grant Thursday, from the Economic Development Administration. The county needs about three-and-a-half (m) million dollars to renovate the Phillips County Hospital.

The hospital was built in 1952. It has no private bathrooms and no oxygen access in patient rooms.

Those points were violations of federal requirements, so the government gave the hospital until September First, 2002, to upgrade or shut down.

Officials say they expect to hear about their last grant application -- a community block development grant -- after Labor Day. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Groundbreaking Ceremony Reservations Due Today (Posted 8/13/01)

Anyone interested in attending the next Monday's picnic for the groundbreaking ceremonies must R.S.V.P. by calling the Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum by 5pm today (8/13/01) at 526-3539. The ceremonies will be held next Monday evening at 6pm.


Dry Summer Plagues Missouri (Posted 8/10/01)

(Associated Press) The Army Corps of Engineers says dry conditions continue to plague the Missouri River basin.

Larry Cieslik is chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division in Omaha. He says inflows into Fort Peck and Garrison are only about half of normal. He says releases from dams will continue to be low for the rest of the year.

Energy production from the dams is expected to be just 60 percent of normal the rest of the year. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


MCF Grants Awarded (Posted 8/9/01)

Grants totaling $3,500.00 were awarded this summer to projects in Valley County by the Montana Community Foundation, Grants Officer Marilyn Daumiller of Helena announced. The Nashua Senior Citizens received $2,500 and Valley Transit received $1,000.

The Nashua organization will use grant dollars to help buy and install insulation, windows, siding, paneling and studs to upgrade the Senior Citizens Center there. Valley Transit will use the money for costs associated with the bus program.

Funds for the Nashua Senior Citizen’s grant came from the MCF Endowment, which is built by individual, corporate and foundation gifts, Daumiller said. “This award is truly a gift from Montana’s people, and it serves as a fine example of the good work that can be accomplished when endowments are in place, growing and ready to make grants.”

The Transit grant was funded through the Latigo Rural Fund, established with MCF by founders of the great Montana Centennial Cattle Drive. Proceeds from the Cattle Drive were invested to serve rural Montana communities to support development, education and welfare of rural Montana citizens; the viability of Montana’s rural communities; and the development of its rural economy.

Including these grants, projects in Valley County have received $31,142 in grant dollars from the Montana Community Foundation since its inception 12 years ago. The Montana Community Foundation has several grant programs. Grants from the general endowment are awarded in the following areas: arts and culture, basic human needs, education, economic development and natural resources and conservation. Sept. 15 is the deadline for grant applications in the economic development area.


Camelot Debuts This Weekend At Fort Peck Theatre (Posted 8/9/01)

An intriguing romantic adventure weaves the fabric of Camelot, opening this weekend at the Fort Peck Theatre in Fort Peck.

With grandeur fitting to the historic Theatre and the Knights of the Round Table, Camelot plays Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings through Sept. 2. Curtain time is 8 p.m.
Camelot begins with the first meeting of the youthful King Arthur and the beautiful Guenevere. It traces their love and their search

for Arthur's dream of perfect peace and order for his kingdom. He gathers round them the staunchest knights of the land whose vows of honor become the creed of chivalry. The bravest among them, Sir Lancelot, falls victim to his love for Arthur's beloved Guenevere. This traitorous love, along with the villainy of Arthur's natural son, Sir Mordred, ends his wonderful dream.

Entwined through Camelot's romantic story is some of the best music created by composer Frederick Loewe and lyricist Alan Jay Lerner. Much of it is familiar, such as If Ever I Would Leave You, How to Handle A Woman, and I Loved You Once In Silence, and of course, Camelot. These are joined by music such as Follow Me, and The Simple Joys Of Maidenhood, which are equally as beautiful. Professional and volunteer performers will present Camelot.

Artistic Director Bobby Gutierrez does double duty, taking on the role of King Arthur in addition to his directorial responsibilities. Christopher Kristant plays the dashing Lancelot and Queen Guenevere will be played by Erika Anderson. Ryan Grigg appears as Merlyn, Jesse Robinson as Mordred, Becky Bowler as Morgan LeFay, Carly Booth as Lady Anne, and Brittiny Hollow as Lady Cathrine.

Volunteer performers from Glasgow are Nathan Sharret, David Odegard, Lucas Ruggles, Nick Grobel, Luke Hystad, Cara Morehouse, J.D. Omvig, Holly Taylor, Anna Fahlgren, Taylor Moorman, Brandy Morehouse, Amelia Clampit, Jordan Zorn, Desiree Sharret, Joanna Cotton, Echo Sampson and Sable Sampson. Patrick DeCoudres hails from Fort Peck and Anneva Uphaus of Malta plays a Herald.

Lynne Monson of Wolf Point is musical director for Camelot and Cynde Whiteman of Wolf Point, is assistant costume designer.

The technical crew relies on the many talents of Theresa Jenson, technical director; Sam Ries, stage manager; Aaron Torgerson, light designer; Brian Harms, set designer; and Shawn Newton of Glasgow, production assistant. Hollow did choreography for Camelot, and Kristant designed the costumes.

Tickets may be purchased at the door, priced at $10 for adults, $9 for senior citizens and $6 for students. Reserved seating is available for an additional charge of $5 per ticket. Call the theatre at 406-526-9943 for more information.

Refreshments following Friday's performance will honor the cast and technical crew. The Theatre, which opened in 1934 as a movie house, seats over 900 people for live performances. The Fort Peck Fine Arts Council, Inc. has produced musicals and dramas there since 1970.

Come and enjoy an evening at the Round Table. If you are a youngster, prepare to be dazzled. If you're an oldster, prepare to "youthen" along with Merlyn!

 


Commissioners Table Property Tax (Posted 8/9/01)


The Valley County Commissioners have reversed themselves on a decision to raise property taxes to pay for a large increase in health insurance premiums for county employees.

On Wednesday the commissioners tabled a proposal to raise property taxes by $134,620 to pay for the increased premiums. The commissioners will take another look at the preliminary budget before deciding whether or not to raise property taxes.

A public hearing was held on Tuesday on the plan to raise taxes by 5.18 mills to offset the cost of the increased health insurance premiums. An estimated 15 people turned out for the hearing with all in attendance speaking against the tax increase. Most of the speakers complained about the fact that Valley County pays 100 percent of the health insurance premiums for it's employees. The county currently pays $325,620 a year for 81 employees on the insurance plan.

Commissioner Dave Reinhardt noted that if they did not raise taxes to pay for the increase they would have to consider eliminating six positions in Valley County government.


Governor Martz Appoints Two New Members To Wheat And Barley Committee (Posted 8/9/01)

(AP) Governor Judy Martz has appointed two new members to the Montana Wheat and Barley Committee for terms through 2004. The new members are Don Fast of Glasgow and Janice Mattson of Chester. They replace Fred Elling of Rudyard and Judy Vermulm of Cut Bank. The committee administers checkoff dollars to promote research efforts and to develop and maintain grain markets, both domestic and for export. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Valley County Commissioners Plan To Raise Taxes To Pay For Insurance Increases (Posted 8/8/01)

The Valley County Commissioners after holding a public hearing on Tuesday have decided to raise property taxes to pay for a large increase in the cost of health insurance premiums for county employees.

The Montana Legislature passed legislation this past session which allows local governments to raise property taxes to pay for increased costs of health insurance coverage for employees.

The commissioners plan to raise taxes by 5.18 mills which will raise $134,620 to offset the increased insurance costs.

The premiums for county employees have increased from $233 a month to $335 a month. Valley County currently pays 100 percent of employees insurance coverage. The county has currently has 81 employees covered by insurance for a total cost of $325,620 per year.

An estimated 15 people attended the public meeting with all voicing opposition to the tax increase. Most complained about the county providing 100 percent of insurance costs for employees.

The commissioners did note that next year they plan to cap their contribution of insurance coverage at $335 a month.

Commissioner Dave Reinhardt did note that if they did not raise taxes to pay for the increase they would have to eliminate six positions in Valley County government.


School Board Looks For New Member; South Side School Building To Be Demolished In September (Posted 8/8/01)

The Glasgow School Board is looking for a new board member after Jenny Reinhardt resigned on August 1st.

The board met Tuesday night and discussed a replacment for Reinhardt. The school district has already received 3 letters of interest for the vacant position. Allison Molvig, Jenny Jennings and Michael Daley have written letters to the board outlining their qualifications and interest in serving on the Glasgow School Board.

The person who is ultimately selected will serve until the next election which is set for May of 2002.

The three members of the board who were present at the meeting, Ted McIntyre, Dennis Dawson and Dr. Charles Wilson, decided to put of the appointment until the remaining board member, Tom Schmidt, can provide input on the decision. Schmidt was absent from the meeting Tuesday.

The board will make a decision on a replacement at their September 12th meeting. If you are interested in serving on the Glasgow School Board you are encouraged to talk to Glasgow Superintendent Glenn Monson.

The board also approved the budget for the upcoming school year. This year's budget is $4,303,559 which totals 144.84 mills.

Superintendent Monson reported on the results of the South Side School Auction which was held on August 4th. The district raised $3200 after expenses. Monson also said that the building is expected to be demolished sometime in September.


Albertson's Will Close Conrad Store As Part Of Company Cuts (Posted 8/8/01)

(AP) About three weeks ago, Albertson's announced it would close 165 stores in 25 states to reduce its operating expenses. Today, the company said it planned to close only one Montana store -- the one in Conrad.

The employees of Conrad's Albertson's store were told that August 27th would be their last day on the job.

Division Vice President Frank Yaksitch says the Conrad store could not stay competitive. Albertson's took over the former Buttreys store in 1998. It's employees will be offered jobs in other locations.

The company is also reviewing its plans for Montana's Osco Drug stores. (From Dave Ketelhohn, KFBB)


Nashua Man Dies In Rollover (Posted 8/7/01)

A 51 year old rural Nashua resident is dead following a one-vehicle accident on Highway #438 north of Nashua.

According to Valley County Sheriff Dick Wessler, Walter McDonald Sr. was traveling north on the highway when he apparently fell asleep and the vehicle rolled twice. McDonald was thrown out of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident occurred sometime Sunday evening or early Monday morning with the body being discovered at 5:45am Monday.

The accident is still under investigation by the Montana Highway Patrol and the Valley County Sheriffs Department.


Four To Be Arraigned This Week In Wolf Point Drug Case (Posted 8/7/01)

(AP) -- Four men will be arraigned in Wolf Point this week, charged with producing methampethamines. All four are in their 30s.

They are Kyle and Wade Traeholt of Wolf Point; and Joseph Barcellos and Jerald Hendrickson, both of Spokane, Washington.

All four are charged with criminal production or manufacture of dangerous drugs. The minimum penalty is five years in prison and a 50-thousand-dollar fine.

The Traeholts were also charged with criminal possession of precursors to dangerous drugs. The minimum penalty is two years in prison.

The Roosevelt County attorney says additional charges are likely.

Barcellos and Hendrickson are being held in the Roosevelt County Jail, with bail set at 50-thousand dollars. The Traeholts posted bail and were released. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.


Baucus To Attend Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum Groundbreaking (Posted 8/6/01)

Montana Senator Max Baucus will be in Glasgow August 20th for the groundbreaking of the Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum.

Baucus will be one of many dignitaries on hand for the ground breaking ceremonies which will recognize, celebrate and continue to build public support and appreciation for the service and dedication in planning, designing, funding and building the Interpretive Center.

Last month the construction contract for the Interpretive Center was awarded to Sletten Construction of Great Falls for $4,083,000.


Wisconsin Residents Vie For Biggest Burger Designation (Posted 8/6/01)

(AP) Seymour, Wisconsin is reclaiming its reputation as the hamburger capital of the world. Residents there cooked 8,266 pounds of ground beef yesterday, in an attempt to regain the world record for the biggest burger.

Seymour has been in a funk since September 1999 when the people of Saco, Montana, cooked a 6,040 pound burger at the Sleeping Buffalo Resort. That knocked Seymour's previous 55-hundred pound burger out of the Guiness Book of World Records. Guinness still must verify whether Seymour's latest effort succeeded.

It took the team of a dozen volunteer cooks three and a half hours Saturday to grill the four-ton patty. The volunteer cooks meticulously followed the Guinness guidelines for weight, ingredients and protocol for preparation and cooking. The effort was part of the city's 13th annual Burger Fest. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Baucus Says Funds On Track For Hatchery (Posted 8/6/01)

United States Senator Max Baucus told Kltz/Klan Radio that Congress is on track to approve $2 million dollars for the Fort Peck Warm Water Fish Hatchery.

Last year Congress authorized $20 million for the hatchery but now must appropriate the money to be used to construct the hatchery.

Baucus said he hopes to get $2 million this year and $3 million next year for the project. He said it's tough to project too many years ahead but he hopes to have the full $20 million dollars appropriated by 2004.


Fort Peck Businesses Hope To See Economic Boost From New Visitor Center (Posted 8/6/01)

(AP)Business people at Fort Peck believe the new Fort Peck Dam Interpretive Center and Museum will bring an economic boost to the Glasgow area -- not only from construction that begins this fall, but also from an influx of visitors once it's finished. Groundbreaking for the new visitor center is August 20th.

Sletten Construction, of Great Falls, has been awarded a four million dollar contract for the 16-thousand-500-square-foot building. The center is to be completed by the summer of 2003.

Backers hope to see 200-thousand visitors a year at the new Fort Peck center. The museum will have displays on the area's history and character.

Some of the featured topics will be construction of the Fort Peck Dam, dinosaur fossils, American Indian culture, the history of homesteading, and the Lewis and Clark expedition. (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


Grobel Scholarships Announced (Posted 8/5/01)

The names of four $2,000 Grobel Scholarship winners were announced recently by Peter Grobel, Senior Vice President of First Community Bank and Chairman of the Grobel Scholarship Trust Committee.

Lisa Bell, the daughter of Steve and Vickie Bell of Glasgow, is a nursing student at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.

Kara Brayko, the daughter of Curt & Carol Brayko of Glasgow, is a nursing student at Minot State University.

Angela Norcutt, the daughter of Joy erickson of Glasgow, is a nursing student at Miles Community College in Miles City.

Marjorie Mires Schushke, the daughter of Lawrence and Janice Mires of Glasgow, is a nursing student at the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks.

The Grobel Scholarship Trust was established in 1997 by Lynn D. and Lois T. Grobel in memory of their daughter, Mary, a nurse. Mary was a 1970 Glasgow High School graduate.

The trust provides a continuing source of scholarship funds for graduates of Valley County high schools who have completed at least one academic year of post-secondary study in a nursing related field.

In addition to Peter Grobel, the members of the selection committee are Sam Waters, President of First Community Bank, and Steve Grobel of Hampton, Virginia.


Voice Mail Arrives In Northeast Montana (Posted 8/5/01)

On August 1, 2001, Nemont Telephone Cooperative and Valley Telecommunications Inc. rolled out a new Voice Mail service.

The new service compliments its other line of services such as NCI Internet and ADSL, Caller ID, Sagebrush Cellular and Nemont Long Distance.

The new Voice Mail service is a specialized Voice Mail box which is similar to an answering machine, but works without having to purchase or maintain costly equipment. Voice Mail messages can be retrieved from any touch-tone phone.

Voice Mail will take messages when someone is on the Internet, on another call, or when they are away from the phone. It even works during power outages so important messages aren't lost. Confidential messages stay confidential since everyone is provided with their own Voice Mail box and password.

The new Voice Mail system is available in all of the Nemont Telephone Cooperative and Valley Telecommunications service areas.
For more information on Voice Mail service or customized telecommunications packages, call 1-800-275-6004.


Cameron Photography Dispayed At Pioneer Museum (Posted 8/5/01)

Evelyn Cameron settled near Miles City with her husband Ewen. Evelyn
ran the homestead, took care of business, and photographed the people,
wildlife, and business of early Montana. Ewen, an ornithologist,
studied area birdlife. Currently at the museum is framed and labeled
photography of Ms. Cameron. The Montana Historical Society has loaned
the exhibit to the Valley County Pioneer Museum until August 17th. This
is a chance for the local people to view the amazing works of Evelyn
Cameron. Please stop by and view it all before the 17th of August.

 


Commission Puts Off Decision On Highway 2 (Posted 8/3/01)

The Montana Transportation Commission decided today to put off any decision on the possible expansion of U.S Highway 2 into a four lane highway. At a meeting in Glasgow the commission heard the interpetation from the Department of Transportation of Senate Bill 3 which passed the Montana Legislature this past session. The bill directed the department to build a four-highway generally along the route of highway 2.

The Montana Department of Transportation in its interpetation stated that a four-lane highway wasn't necessary across the entire hi-line and that a two lane highway would be appropriate in some areas of Highway 2.

State Senator Sam Kitzenberg disagreed with the DOT interpetation and brought forth two legal opinions that they were not following the law set by the legislature in planning a four-lane highway.

After hearing from several local people the commission decided not to take any action on the four-lane proposal. Instead they asked Director Dave Galt to meet with Senator Kitzenberg to try and work out a solution to bring a four lane highway to Montana's hi-line.


Judge To Ease Way For Indian Farmers To File Suit Over FSA Practices (Posted 8/2/01)

(AP) A federal judge in Great Falls is clearing the way for a group of Indian farmers who want to file a class-action lawsuit against the federal government by certifying them as a "class."

The farmers say they were victims of loan discrimination by the federal Farm Service Agency. They say the F-S-A denied their loan applications while approving loans for white farmers in similar financial circumstances, or made loans so late or so small that they did not help the farmers stay in business.

U-S District Judge Emmet Sullivan said on July 13th that he would certify them as a class, and the ruling is expected within a few weeks.

More than 700 Indian farmers from across the nation say they intend to join the case. Lawyers plan an information session for prospective plaintiffs Monday in Billings. Farmers Luther Crasco of Dodson and George Keepseagle of Fort Yates, North Dakota, are leaders in the case.


Fort Peck Tribe Sues Company Over Pipeline On Reservation (Posted 8/1/01)

(Poplar-AP) -- The Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux tribes are suing a pipeline company over taxes the tribe says the company refuses to pay. The lawsuit was filed today in tribal court at Poplar.

The suit claims the Northern Border Pipeline Company has refused to pay more than three million dollars in utility taxes in the past two years. Tribal chairman Arlyn Headdress says the tribe has tried repeatedly but failed to negotiate a resolution of the issues.

Attorneys for Northern Border did not return messages for comment today.

The lawsuit is the second the tribes have filed against companies over taxes it has levied against them, but been unable to collect. In June, a federal judge ruled that the tribes cannot impose a utility tax on Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad, for crossing the Fort Peck Reservation. The tribes are appealing that case. (Help from Dave Ketelhohn, KFBB) (Copyright 2001 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)


August, 2001 Obituaries
Lynn Ann (Irwin) Thompson

Lynn Ann Thompson vigil services have been set Thursday, Aug. 30, 7:00 PM at the Queen of Angeles Catholic Church in Nashua. Rev. Thad Kozikowski will officiate. Burial will take place at the Nashua City Cemetery. Bell Mortuary of Glasgow is in charge of arrangements. She passed away in Jacksonville, FL Saturday, Aug. 25.

Lynn Thompson was born February 6, 1953 in Glasgow to John D. and Nora (Pointer) Irwin. She attended school in Nashua and a couple years at Miles City Community College. She married James Rorvik in Nashua in August of 1971. They were divorced and she married Lyle Thompson in 1981 in Forsyth. She was a member of the Catholic Church. She collected angels, and liked spending time with her grandchildren. She also enjoyed her nieces and nephews. She enjoyed the time she spent working at the VFW and all the friends she made there.

Survivors include her mother, Norma Irwin of Nashua; father, John Irwin of Glasgow; one son, Joe Rorvik of Glasgow; three daughters, Jennifer (Donald) Brown of Jacksonville, FL, Theresa (Ryan) Stone of Glasgow and Allison Rorvik of Las Vegas, NV; eight grandchildren, many nieces and nephews; five sisters, Maureen Walton of Great Falls, Sheila Malone of Nashua, Mary Beth Palmerton of Great Falls, Kathleen Gorman of Nashua and Ellen Guttenberg of Fort Peck; and one brother, Patrick Irwin of Nashua.

She was preceded in death by one grand daughter, Kayla Rorvik, two brothers, Rommie and Mike Irwin.


Kenneth Michael Kronebusch

Kenneth Michael Kronebusch, age 40, died of natural causes at his home in Glasgow August 25. Funeral services are Wednesday, August 29, 2:00 PM, at the Bell Chapel in Glasgow. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Kronebusch was born in Glasgow on September 14, 1960 to Richard M. and Faye (French) Kronebusch. He enjoyed farming, water skiing, Fort Peck Lake and riding motorcycles. He also enjoyed his many friends and spending time with his kids.

Survivors include a son, Brandon; and daughter, Elissa Stingley, both of Glasgow; and a brother, Lee Kronebusch of Opheim.


Raymond Russell St. John

Raymond Russell St. John funeral services are scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 28, 2:00 PM at the Opheim Methodist Church with interment at the Lawndale Cemetery in Opheim. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements. St. John, age 79, died of natural causes at the Valley View Nursing Home in Glasgow.

Raymond St. John was born in Glasgow on October 28, 1921 to Dewitt and Alma St. John. The family moved to Opheim when Raymond was 5-years old. He attended elementary and high school in Opheim and college at NMC/Northern Montana College in Havre. He served in the U.S. Air Force between 1942-1945 stationed in Italy and North Africa. He married Marjorie Mabel Bailey on June 2, 1943.

Following his stint in the service, St, John worked with his dad at the Markles Transfer for three years until it burned down. In 1949, St. John along with Ward Bishop and Otto Dahl formed the Opheim Northern Supply Company which closed in 1960.

St. John farmed until his retirement. He cared for his wife, Marjorie, until her death in 1995.

He is survived by two sisters; Lola Gardner of Palm Springs and Lorraine Paulson of Seattle, WA; two brothers, Myron of Helena, Leland of Chehalis, WA; four children, Diane (Albert) Fehler of Opheim, Dean St.John of Mesa, AZ.; Gene St. John of Glentana; and Nancy Sobien

of Mountain Home, Idaho.; eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.


Rueben Bainard Schakosky

Rueben Bainard Schakosky, age 80, died Friday, Aug. 17 at Valley View Nursing Home in Glasgow of natural causes. Services are Tuesday, Aug. 21, 2:00 PM, at Bell Mortuary in Glasgow. Rev. Martin Mock will officate. Interment will take place at Highland Cemetery in Glasgow. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Schakosky was born April 24, 1921 to Albert ande Minnie Schakosky.

Survivors include three sisters, Alyce Mosser of Slaton, TX, Aggie Graves of Charlotte, MI and Mildred Iwin of Glasgow.


Lester Johnson

Lester Johnson, age 85, died Tuesday, Aug. 14 at St. Vincent Medical Center In Billings. Services are scheduled Saturday, Aug. 18, 10AM at the Hinsdale American Legion Hall with the Rev. Chris Flohr officiating. Music will be by Dawn Pattison and Sharon Kauffman. Interment will take place at Hillview Cemetery in Hinsdale. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Johnson was born February 25, 1916 in Glasgow to Edward and Christina Johnson. He attended Snake Creek School and later graduated from Hinsdale High School in 1933. He was a life-long farmer/rancher in the Genevieve community. September 10, 1938, Lester married Ruth Jensen in Wolf Point. He worked on the Fort Peck Dam construction and they lived briefly in Seattle, WA before moving to Hinsdale where they worked their rach north of Hinsdale until retirement.

Lester enjoyed working with wood and being on his tractor and combine. He and Ruth really enjoyed traveling. Lester always enjoyed family, friends and all aspects of life.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Ruth, of 59 years in May of 1997.

Survivors include three sons, Dennis (Annette) Johnson, Darwin (Sandy) Johnson and Don (Marie) Johnson, all of Hinsdale; six grandchildren, Wayne, Lance, Matthew, Leslie, Paige, Lisa; and two great-grandchildren, Chaz and Brett.

Pallbearers will be his grandchildren Wayne Johnson, Lance Johnson, Matthew Johnson, Leslie Johnson, Paige Johnson and Lisa Johnson. Honorary pallbearers are his life-long friends.


Chester "Chet" V. Anderson

Chester "Chet" V. Anderson, 91, died Sunday, August 12, of heart failure at his home in Glasgow. Services will be held Friday, August 17, at 11:00 a.m. in the Bell Mortuary with burial being at Glasgow's Highland Cemetery. Bell Mortuary is in charge of arrangements.

Chet was born July 20, 1910 in Castor, Alberta, Canada, the oldest son of the late Anthony and Emma (Pudwill) Anderson.

He married Anne Simpson on December 6, 1937 in Havre, MT. He worked for Buttrey Foods (now Albertsons) for twenty-five years starting in Havre, MT. He moved to Great Falls and finally to Glasgow, MT in 1945, to manage their grocery store. On retiring from this role he bought an existing flower and gift shop that became the Glasgow Flower Shop and operated that business for twenty-five years selling it in 1990 to the current owners. In his second retirement he kept active until recently doing garden, yard and tree trimming work for a number of people in the Glasgow area.

Survivors include his wife Anne in Glasgow; two sons; twelve grandchildren-Chris Anderson of Glasgow, Katie Anderson of Glasgow, and Nicholas Anderson of Miles City. In addition he has five great grandchildren; two brothers and two sisters.

He was preceded in death by his parents; one sister; three sons; and one grandson.


Walter Frank MacDonald

Funeral services for Walter Frank MacDonald, age 52, are set for Friday, August 10, 2001, 10:00 AM at Bell Chapel in Glasgow. Ed Frueh will officate. Burial will take place with a family graveside service. Bell Mortuary of Glasgow is in charge of arrangements. MacDonald passed away August 6 in a traffic accident north of Nashua.

MacDonald was born in Glasgow on November 8, 1948 to John MacDonald and Madalina M. Jager. He remained north of Nashua for 31 years. MacDonald was a farmer and rancher, horseman and cattleman. He joined the Marine Corp in November 1966 and retired from duty November 1969--serving during the Vietnam War. MacDonald enjoyed gardening and hunting.

Survivors include his mother, Madeline Jager; three sons, Tater MacDonald of Nashua, Vincent J. MacDonald of Scobey and Walter F. MacDonald of Nashua; and one grandchild.


James Alvin Dyson

James Alvin Dyson, 93, died of natural causes at Valley View Nursing Home in Glasgow on August 1. Services will be held on Saturday, August 4, at 2:00 p.m. at the Adams Memorial Chapel in Malta. Burial will be in the Grandview Cemetery in Saco with Adams Funeral Home of Malta in charge of the arrangements.

James was a World War II veteran and retired area rancher. No survivors were listed.


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