Ledger Looking Back 25 Years: 4/7/1997

April 17, 1997

Casino Night, the Whitehall Volunteer Fire Department annual fundraiser, was under investigation by the Montana Department of Justice regarding a complaint filed by Holly Stratton of Whitehall alleging improper actions during Casino Night. The complaint was divided into two parts: 1) apparently involved alleged fraud associated with one dealer, one table, and one group of players; and 2) possible permit, procedural and administrative violations by the department. Other legal questions included the legality of blackjack and whether the town or the fire department obtained the needed procedural permits for Casino Night. Stratton’s complaint appears to be that an excess amount of play money ended up in the hands of one group of people who had played at one table, and this group successfully bid on a large number of auction items.

Whitehall parents met and formed a working group to address concerns about cigarette smoking, drug use, and liquor consumption by high school students. Todd Breitenfeldt, a Whitehall teacher, and organizer of the meeting said students will be encouraged to join the working group and help develop solutions.

New Whitehall School Board Chair, Barb Sunderland, had one clear initial priority: the board will develop a list of priorities and goals to guide future actions.

Bill Baycroft expanded to include Quaker State 30-minute oil changes. He continued to do his custom upholstery work.

Trojan Educator of the Week was Elaine Henningsen, a resource room special aide. Mrs. Henningsen has been with the Whitehall School District for two years and in her spare time enjoys sewing and music. Elaine and her husband, Bob, have four children: Bob, Brian, Travis, and Traci. She is an active parent with school activities.

Trojan Student of the Week was Cheyenne Hacker, a freshman at Whitehall High School who excels in world history. She is the daughter of Gregg and Beady Hacker and enjoys hiking and reading. She plans to attend college after she graduates from high school.

Trojan Athlete of the Week was Travis Handl, a high jumper on the Trojan Track Squad. Travis cleared 6’6” at the Sheridan Invitational Track Meet and set a new meet record. Travis, a junior, is the son of Betty and Ed Handl and enjoys riding motorcycles, sports, and being outdoors.