Ledger Looking Back 25 Years: January 2, 1997

January 2, 1997

Area residents attended an informational meeting presenting an explanation of a proposed Extended Area Service (EAS) plan and showed nearly unanimous support for the new plan. An EAS involves expanding the local calling area to include nearby exchanges such as Butte. In Whitehall’s exchange, phone customers pay long-distance rates for calls into the Butte exchange. The EAS would come with a cost increase for all affected customers. Options under review would increase Whitehall’s rates by an amount between $2.10 to $10.19 depending on the option selected; however, an option for customers who do not want to pay the higher flat rate for an EAS must be offered.

Hannah Warfield of Whitehall was the winner of the Whitehall Business Association’s giant stocking giveaway. Warfield qualified to be in the drawing by collecting stamps from participating businesses in the Stamp Out Holiday Hassles contest. Prizes to fill the stocking were donated by Whitehall businesses and included dolls, toy trucks, gift certificates for hair care, lots of clothing items, and dozens of other gifts.

Holiday travelers will pay 17 cents more per gallon for gas this December than one year ago, according to AAA. The national average gas prices are $1.288 for regular unleaded self-service. The average price in Montana is $1.415 while Butte was among the lowest priced areas in the state with an average of $1.369 for unleaded.

Trojan Educator of the Week is special education teacher, Chuck Peterson. Chuck was nominated by Mrs. Thronson because he provides success for many students. He recently won the “Golden Apple” Award for being an outstanding teacher. Chuck is married to Mary Lou and his hobbies include horseback riding, dog training, and hunting. He has been with the district for three years.

Trojan Athlete of the Week is senior Joe Sampson, son of Gordon and Cindy Sampson. Joe was nominated by Coach Jeff Kreis because his attitude and effort toward sports, especially basketball at this time, is exemplary and needs to be commended.

Trojan Student of the Week is senior Joe Sampson. Joe was nominated by Coach Mike Welch for his hard work in weight training. Joe plans on attending college at MSU and his hobbies include basketball, football, and track.