Ledger Looking Back 25 Years: 9/24/1997

September 24, 1997

A federal grand jury issued federal indictments against the four individuals apprehended during the August 6th drug raid south of Whitehall. Jason Schwartz and his wife Theresa Jo Schwartz, Mitch Bakken, and Eric Decker, were all charged with conspiracy to manufacture marijuana, the manufacture of marijuana, and use of the premises to manufacture marijuana. Jason Schwartz and Bakken were also charged with the use of a gun-related to drug trafficking.

In a unanimous 3-0 vote, the Jefferson County Commission opted to officially “not proceed with any more money or time” on the proposal to build a 500-bed adult male private prison in Jefferson County.

Town Marshall Topper Giono reported that additional daytime patrol shifts would be out and about, enforcing Whitehall speed limits. Giono said the additional patrol would focus on high traffic periods and high traffic places. Lunchtime, after school, and afternoons, were times Giono said would be under closer scrutiny, and more closely include school zones, Whitehall Street and Legion Avenue.

Whitehall Student of the Week was senior Joe Crain. Joe was selected by Carol Cogdill for his exceptional attitude in Vocational English. Joe is the son of Gene and Sally Crain. Joe enjoys fishing, going to Butte, and weekends.

Whitehall Athlete of the Week was Kim Franich because of her “great hustle in practice and games.” Kim was on the Lady Trojan Basketball Team and was leading the team in steals and assists. Kim is the daughter of Mike and Michelle Franich, is a senior, and plans to attend college.