Ledger Looking Back 25 Years: 11/4/1998

NOVEMBER 4, 1998:

Jefferson County voters elected Jim Quinlan as their new Jefferson County Sheriff, sent Whitehall resident Rick Dale to the Montana State Legislature, and retained Valerie Wilson as Jefferson County Attorney in the November 3 general election.

Gayle Sacry, M.D., a family physician from Whitehall, was honored for 30 years of membership in the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). The AAFP, founded in 1947, was instrumental in establishing the medical specialty of family practice in 1969.

An earthquake measuring 4.1 on the Richter scale rolled across southwest Montana from an epicenter near Waterloo and rattled Whitehall at about 8:15 PM on October 27. The quake loudly rolled through Whitehall, but did little damage to structures in the Waterloo or Whitehall areas. The quake reportedly was felt as far away as Helena and Missoula.

Whitehall Student of the Week was Kristy Ruckdaschel. She received the honor for her work in Mr. Breitenfeldt's science class. Kristy is a sophomore and the daughter of Keith and Nila Ruckdaschel. She would like to become a vet in the future. Kristy enjoys volleyball, singing in the choir, playing the French horn, and hanging out with friends.

Whitehall Athlete of the Week was Bill Battaiola, a junior Trojan football player. Bill had a great defensive game in Baker during the State Class B playoffs – he was in on 11 tackles and blocked well for Doug McCollum. Bill is the son of Mike and Patty Battaiola. He has plans to attend college. Bill enjoys hiking, sports, and weightlifting.

WHS Creative Leader of the Week was sophomore Jennifer Williams. Jen Cunningham nominated Jennifer for being an "outstanding member of the Whitehall band program." Mrs. Cunningham said Jennifer is very committed, is an excellent role model, and has a positive attitude. Jennifer is the daughter of Jim and Judiann Williams and would like to study medicine in the future. She enjoys skiing, tennis, playing the piano, and hunting.