Friday, July 31
Kathleen Jaqueth-Watson, 89
Kathleen R. “Kay” Jaqueth-Watson, 89, died July 23 at Cabinet Peaks Medical Center. Arrangements are pending and will be announced by Schnackenberg Funeral Home.
Cinda L. Trombley, 75
Cinda L. Trombley, 75, of Libby, passed away at her home July 24, 2020. Private family services will be held. Arrangements are under the care of Schnackenberg Funeral Home of Libby.
Bits ‘n pieces from east, west and beyond
East, west or beyond, sooner or later events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling:
Cabinet Peaks Medical Center updates COVID-19 plan
With cases of the novel coronavirus increasing in Lincoln County, Cabinet Peaks Medical Center has outlined its plans for dealing with a potential surge in patients.
Sheriff’s Office Blotter
The law roundup is compiled from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office incident log. It is not meant to serve as an exhaustive account.
William John Chappel
William John Chappel (lovingly known as Chappy) died May 6, 2020, in Billings. He was born Aug. 19, 1948, to Harold (Jack) and Mary Chappel.
The grit beneath the glitter
At first glance, nothing distinguished the trailer from the dozens of others parked around the rodeo camp.
Medical experts press lawmakers for stronger response
Leading medical professionals are imploring local elected officials to take more action on the COVID-19 pandemic, telling county commissioners July 27 that the region is at a tipping point.
School officials review plans after parent survey
With only weeks to go before the fall semester begins, Libby Public School District officials updated reopening plans to address new guidelines for sports and mounting concerns regarding masks and busing.
Legals for July, 31 2020
Wednesday, July 29
Welcoming the stampede
Fans already had packed the bleachers when the speakers crackled to life.
Rosalie Ann Whalen
Tim and Liz Whalen welomed a baby girl June 8, 2020, at 6:30 p.m. Rosalie Ann Whalen weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces an was 19 inches long. She was delivered by Dr. Kelli Jarrett.
Kendrick Mac McClune
Paul McClune and Lexie Ross welcomed a baby boy on June 23, 2020, at 11:30 p.m. Kendrick Mac McClune weighed 6 pounds, 10 ounces and was 20 inches long. He was delivered by Dr. Kelli Jarrett.
Abel Brown-Lira
Zachary and Heather Brown-Lira welcomed a baby boy on July 9, 2020, at 5 p.m. Abel Brown-Lira weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces and was 21 inches long. He was delivered by Dr. Kelli Jarrett.
Aubrey Reign Hicks
Jacob Hicks and Rebel Larson welcomed a baby girl on July 9, 2020, at 11:55 a.m. Aubrey Reign weighed 6 pounds, 15 ounces and was 19-and-three-quarter inches long. She was delivered by Dr. Kelli Jarrett.
Sheriff’s Office Blotter
The law roundup is compiled from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office incident log. It is not meant to serve as an exhaustive account.
Janet M. Schmidig, 83
Janet M. Schmidig, 83, of Troy, passed peacefully in her sleep July 20, 2020, at Libby Care Center of Cascadia. She was born June 3, 1937, in Portland, Ore., to Glane and Perul Bastido. She was raised on the Oregon coast.
Jan Glover, 71
After struggling with several strokes and then a heart attack last year, Jan Glover, 71, went to be home with her Savior on July 7, 2020. She left us peacefully and not in pain. Born in Florence, Ala., on Jan. 7, 1949, Jan Carolyn Snyder spent her early years in the South. She was raised by her parents, Bill and Ouida Snyder, with her older brother and sister, Rodney and Lucy Snyder.
Dewey Slatten, 91
On July 15, 2020, Dewey Slatten, beloved wife and mother of two children, passed away at the age of 91 in Eureka. She was born Nov. 15, 1928, in Eureka Springs, Ark., to John and Lena (Murphy) Quigley. Her family then moved to Missouri and then later Tracy, Calif., when she was in second grade.
Eureka man accused of shooting dog
A Eureka man accused of shooting and killing a dog in June pleaded not guilty to charges of aggravated animal cruelty and criminal endangerment July 20.
Loggers chop Mariners in final home stand
The Libby Loggers sent off their departing players right with back-to-back victories against the Mission Valley B Mariners in the final home games of the season on July 23.
Lincoln County law enforcement agencies take educational stance on Bullock’s mask directive
Lincoln County law enforcement agencies have made clear that they do not intend to investigate alleged violations of the new mask ordinance.
Troy seeks to remedy fowl situation
The pet owner who released a domesticated duck at a Troy pond a few years back may have thought they were doing no more than giving their feathery friend a new life in the wild.
Monday, July 27
Lincoln County sees second coronavirus-related death
A second Lincoln County resident has succumbed to complications related to COVID-19.
Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office searches for body of drowning victim
Deputies with the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office are investigating a suspected drowning in Lake Koocanusa, according to a July 27 press release.
Friday, July 24
Dean Steven Bitterman, 52
Dean Steven Bitterman, 52, died July 13, 2020, at St. Patrick Hospital in Missoula. He was born March 14, 1968, in Libby to Tom and Lola Bitterman.
Preserving the wilderness is our patriotic duty
America is the land of opportunity. As individuals, we value the right to choose. We have the freedom to better ourselves by taking on challenges.
Help forge a sustainable future for the Kootenai National Forest
For more than 14 years, the Kootenai Forest Stakeholders Coalition (KFSC) has brought together individuals, businesses and organizations that take an interest in the management of our public lands. In particular, we’ve been focused on how we can make the Kootenai National Forest work for all of us.
This year, we celebrated Independence Day with a fair trade deal
Fireworks! Jobs! A stronger economy! This year, we celebrated a great trade treaty as well as the birth of the United States of America. President Donald Trump promised improvement on the old North American Free Trade Agreement — and he delivered.
FWP seeks new volunteers
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks is seeking to fill several volunteer positions in a general advisory committee based in northwestern Montana.
Active cases dip despite new confirmations
Health officials announced two new cases of novel coronavirus in Lincoln County on July 22, but said the number of active cases had fallen.
Asbestos Resource Program funding in flux
Funding for the Lincoln County Asbestos Resource Program is in limbo as the Libby Superfund site is transferred from federal to state oversight, according to Virginia Kocieda the director of the ARP.
Haflich sentenced to five years behind bars
Lincoln County District Judge Matthew Cuffe handed down a five-year sentence without parole to a Libby man convicted of partner or family member assault, third offense, July 20.
Competitors go medieval at the Kootenai Highland Gathering
In front of him lay a 56-pound kettlebell weight. Above him, a horizontal pole hung suspended 12 feet off the ground. His goal: to generate enough momentum by swinging the weight between his legs to lob it clear over the bar.
Public health officials hold final say on events
Lincoln County’s public health officer issued a toned down set of pandemic restrictions amid pushback from members of the health board and residents during two public hearings in recent days.
Troy mayor: July 4th ‘is our holiday’
The question of who will host next year’s Independence Day celebration in Lincoln County is up in the air, but officials in Troy want to keep the spotlight on their community.
Legals for July, 24 2020
Tuesday, July 21
Williams reaches deal with prosecutors on assault charges
A Troy man pleaded guilty to a single felony count of assault on a minor in Lincoln County District Court on July 6 after striking a deal with prosecutors.
Tamera Ann Kidder, 61
With profound sadness we announce the passing of Tamera Ann Kidder, 61, our beloved and devoted wife, mother and daughter. She was a friend to all.
Steve Risley, 75
Steve Risley, 75, a wonderful husband, brother, father and friend, passed unexpectedly, but peacefully, in his home July 12, 2020. He was born Oct. 13, 1944, in Libby to Henry and Leone Risley.
Thomas David Peterson, 65
Thomas David Peterson, 65, beloved husband, father and brother, passed away July 10, 2020. Our dad’s passing was very unexpected due to underlying health conditions. Please know that he will never have the chance to forget who he was, but, more importantly, never have the chance to forget his family and friends.
Sheriff’s Office Blotter
The law roundup is compiled from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office incident log. It is not meant to serve as an exhaustive account.
Businesses adjust to mask directive
Along Mineral Avenue, signs have appeared on storefronts urging customers to comply with a new state directive by wearing masks in indoor public spaces.
County hits community spread status
No longer able to trace back new cases of the novel coronavirus, health officials in Lincoln County declared last week that the pandemic had reached the “community spread” stage locally.
Health officer seeks tighter pandemic restrictions
Lincoln County’s top doctor is pushing for a more robust pandemic response effort as evidence of community spread of COVID-19 mounts.
After handling bear problem, health officials grapple with human interlopers
Health department officials solved a bear problem at one county transfer site, but are now dealing with human interlopers at another.
Troy approves hiring of new police officer with federal grant
Troy City Council approved a popular federal grant during a July 15 meeting that allows the city’s police department to hire an additional officer. An upgrade to the department’s computer systems was also approved.
Despite uncertainty, Loggers keep up training
It seemed, at first, that the only sound disturbing the early morning quiet hanging over Education Way on Friday was the cry of a lonesome rooster.
Legals for July, 21 2020
Friday, July 17
Bits ‘n pieces from east, west and beyond
East, west or beyond, sooner or later events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling:
Dana Lynn Magone Henry
Dana Lynn Magone Henry was born in Great Falls on Sept. 5, 1959 to Dan and Ruth Magone. She died in Phoenix on May 31, 2020, of conditions related to heart failure.
Frederick M. Drake, 78
Frederick “Fred” M. Drake, 78, died July 9, 2020, at his home in Libby surrounded by his loved ones. He was born on June 22, 1942, in The Dalles, Ore., to Alvin and Kay Drake.
Active cases in county increase to 35
Health officials reported two new cases of COVID-19 in Lincoln County as of July 15, bringing the total number of active cases to 35.
Gianforte touts economic plan during Libby event
Republican gubernatorial candidate and U.S. Rep. Greg Gianforte clarified the central issue of his platform during a campaign stop in Libby on July 14.
Masks mandated in Lincoln County by order of governor
It’s official: Masks are now required in all indoor public spaces and at larger outdoor gatherings in Lincoln County under a directive issued by Gov. Steve Bullock on July 15.
Libby school officials study reopening plan
With the new school year approaching, Libby Public School District educators face an increasingly difficult question as novel coronavirus cases climb in Lincoln County: How do you balance public safety with public education?
Attorney files motion to suppress in custodial interference case
The attorney for a Libby woman accused of abducting her grandchild sought to suppress evidence gathered by investigators following her detention, pointing to multiple missteps made by law enforcement personnel.
Legals for July, 17 2020
Wednesday, July 15
Masks required in Lincoln County public spaces
Masks are now required in Lincoln County in all businesses, government offices and other indoor public spaces according to a July 15 directive issued by Gov. Steve Bullock. Face coverings also will be required at outdoor gatherings drawing 50 or more people where social distancing is impossible or being ignored.
Tuesday, July 14
Matthew Mischenko
Matthew Mischenko, a land surveyor and longtime resident of Troy, died unexpectedly June 29, 2020, in Spokane Valley, Wash., when his vehicle was struck by a drunk driver.
Bits ‘n pieces from east, west and beyond
East, west or beyond, sooner or later events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling:
Polson directive ‘strongly’ encourages masks as cases spike in Lake County
In consideration of a recent uptick of COVID-19 cases in Lake County, the city of Polson on Thursday issued a directive “strongly encouraging” the use of masks in public.
Margaret F. Mack, 78
Margaret F. Mack, 78, went to be with the Lord on June 15, 2020, with her family by her side. She was born March 18, 1942, in Glendive to George and Frances Lovelace.
Narven William Osteen, 35
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Narven William Osteen, 35, on July 5, 2020. He was a native of Libby and a resident of Kenner, La.
Sheriff’s Office Blotter
The law roundup is compiled from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office incident log. It is not meant to serve as an exhaustive account.
Brown arraigned on multiple charges following firearm incident
A woman accused of firing a gun in a residential neighborhood and later hiding the weapon from investigators was arraigned on multiple charges in Lincoln County District Court on June 15.
Local couple distributes lawn signs supporting law enforcement
The Pizza Hut parking lot on California Avenue saw a bump in traffic on the evening of July 8 but not from customers stopping for dinner.
Commissioners advise caution, say threat is low
With cases of COVID-19 on the rise locally, members of the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners called on residents and business owners to stay vigilent and take precautions.
COVID-19 cases rise sharply in county
Lincoln County saw a jump in confirmed novel coronavirus cases over the weekend.
Idaho man looks to address gap in firearm laws after protests
David Hopkins has a new priority, one he considers No. 1 with a bullet.
Black encourages residents to don masks as COVID-19 cases increase
Masks work. And acting otherwise puts the community at risk.
Shooting complex awarded FWP grant
Fish, Wildlife and Parks officials granted the Lincoln County Shooting Complex $6,300 for a dozen shooting benches and bays as part of a slew of improvement projects underway at the facility.
Legals for July, 14 2020
Sunday, July 12
19 new novel coronavirus cases confirmed in Lincoln County
Health department officials announced 19 new confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus in Lincoln County on Sunday evening.
Friday, July 10
Lincoln County Health Department announces new coronavirus case
A 50-year-old male has tested positive for coronavirus, Lincoln County Health Department officials announced in a July 9 Facebook post. The department is conducting a contact investigation while investigating a possible cluster in Libby.
Loggers axe Missoula Mavs in doubleheader
The Libby Loggers defeated the Missoula Mavericks in two decisive victories during a July 6 doubleheader at Lee Gehring Field.
Sally Kay Sunell Phillips, 61
Sally Kay Sunell Phillips, 61, loving devoted wife and mother, was called home to be with the Lord on June 28, 2020, after a short illness in Oklahoma City, Okla. She was at home and surrounded by family.
Palafox pleads not guilty to animal abuse charge
The Troy man accused of abusing a dog and intimidating neighbors pleaded not guilty to all charges in Lincoln County District Court on July 6.
Warning issued for sanitizers containing toxic ingredient
Consumers should be on the lookout for hand sanitizers manufactured with methanol, a toxic alcohol, the Montana Health Alert Network stated in a press release on July 7.
Libby man arrested after allegedly shooting horse
Authorities accused a Libby man of shooting horses corralled in a residential neighborhood with a .22 caliber rifle June 23.
Health officials identify possible COVID-19 cluster
Health officials are investigating a possible cluster of COVID-19 cases in the Libby area.
Lincoln County educators weigh plans for reopening public schools
With less than two months to go before the end of summer break, Lincoln County educators are determining how schools will open in the fall amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hiker’s body recovered from Leigh Lake trail
Authorities recovered the body of an Idaho man who died while hiking near Leigh Lake on June 23.
Legals for July, 10 2020
Wednesday, July 8
Health officials investigate possible cluster of COVID-19 cases
Officials announced the probe during the regularly scheduled meeting of the Lincoln County Health Board on July 8. The investigation was launched after testing revealed two new cases of COVID-19 in the county, said Public Health Manager Jennifer McCully.
Tuesday, July 7
Instances of abuse, violence and misconduct are unacceptable to law enforcement leaders
Bert Hall
Bert Hall was suddenly called home by his Heavenly Father on June 25, 2020. He was born Dec. 30, 1950, in Bonners Ferry, Idaho, to Lyman and Rose Hall.
Wearing a face mask around town shows appreciation
Sheriff’s Office Blotter
The law roundup is compiled from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office. It is not meant to serve as an exhaustive account.
Despite rainy June, dry summer could still dictate fire season
It was a wet June, but forecasts still predict a hot and dry summer in Northwest Montana.
Officials confirm new COVID-19 case in county
A second Lincoln County resident has tested positive for the novel coronavirus after coming into contact with an out-of-town visitor.
Airport officials hopeful for runway project funding
Officials with the Libby Airport are confident that the county will be off the hook for funding a planned, multimillion-dollar runway rehabilitation project next year.
Tech problem rears up at county detention center
An equipment failure at the Lincoln County Detention Center is threatening to curtail local law enforcement officers’ ability to house inmates.
Fettig arraigned in court on DUI charge
A Libby man faces multiple charges, including driving under the influence, after authorities stopped him for making a turn from the wrong lane of U.S. Highway 2 in early May.
Legals for July, 7 2020
Friday, July 3
Curtis Paul Peterson
Born May 22, 1949 in St. Paul, Minn., Curtis Paul Peterson moved to Troy as a teenager. After graduating from high school, he joined the U.S. Army and was stationed in Germany. Returning home, he worked in construction around Libby and in Washington state.
Authorities seek information about missing Troy man
Local law enforcement officials are asking for help in finding a Troy man missing since June 22.
Fourth of July celebrations will go on in Libby
Pandemic or no, Libby will mark Independence Day.
Local COVID-19 patient caught illness from visitor
Local health officials this week released few details about Lincoln County’s first novel coronavirus case in months, but described the community’s exposure as fairly limited.
County slated to receive $698K in federal PILT funds
Lincoln County stands to receive $698,006 in federal payment in lieu taxes funds this year.
Alfred Victor Pennock, 91
Alfred “Al” Victor Pennock, 91, of Libby, passed away Feb. 27, 2020. Services will be held at 3 p.m., July 11 at the Schnackenberg Funeral Home in Libby.
James K. Kessler, 92
James K. Kessler, 92, died June 28, 2020, at home in Libby of natural causes. He was born Aug. 21, 1927, in Cowen, W.Va., to Clyde and Vivien Kessler.
Bits ‘n pieces from east, west and beyond
East, west or beyond, sooner or later events elsewhere may have a local impact. A recent sampling:
