Friday, March 29
Butte construction company owner charged with defrauding Libby firm
Lincoln County authorities allege Tobiness failed to pay a local contractor more than $200,000 in invoices for work it had done through the end of October 2023.
Valorie J. Sweet
Valorie J. Sweet
Young and old performers bring musical "Annie" to Libby
Director Brooke Williams shared her thoughts in the musical’s program about how the production came together...
George Edward Countryman
George Edward Countryman
Dog set afire in Troy now battling cancer
The Pet Connection Rescue Sanctuary in Libby launched a fundraiser on March 17 to help pay for his treatments.
In appreciation of the musical, "Annie"
What a big project put on by the Kootenai Karacters and the Libby Schools. It never ceases to amaze me of how much talent there is in our small town of Libby, Montana.
Steven Bryan Grotjohn
Steven Bryan Grotjohn
Margaret Ann (Balf) Hacke
Margaret Ann (Balf) Hacke
Cattle-killing griz euthanized in Teton Co.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks had previously captured and radio collared the young adult male bear weighing 375 pounds near Simms earlier this month.
Libby residents support local library system
As Lincoln County residents for over a decade, the public library system is vital to my daily life and our community. The benefits and services the libraries provide to our rural community are invaluable.
Legals for March, 29 2024
Tuesday, March 26
Montana district court Judge Deborah Christopher tenders resignation
In the letter, Judge Deborah Kim Christopher said it had been a privilege to serve Lake and Sanders counties for nearly 24 years, and she will resign effective April 5, 2024.
More accusations against Troy convict
Glaese is currently on probation for two convictions in March 2023. One was for a no contest plea to felony criminal endangerment after he attacked his wife and sprayed her with a fire extinguisher in the summer of 2022.
Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond
The night that Trump’s son Donald Jr. announced the old Republican Party is dead, and replaced by the MAGA movement, Trump Sr. hosted Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban.
Libby man pleads guilty to assaulting girlfriend
She said Eroh grabbed her hair and pushed her face into a pillow on the bed she was sitting on. She said he held her down for a couple seconds, blocking the airflow into her nose and mouth.
Deferred sentence for Yaak man who assaulted woman
Cuffe said statements by Manheim’s family members indicated concerns and worry that the defendant didn’t understand the gravity of the situation.
Patricia Ann (Chaney) Raynes
Patricia Ann (Chaney) Raynes
Silver buckshot for solving climate change
Skiers and ski resort owners say they're losing out on skiing and business. This not only affects the mountains but also local retailers and restaurants. These mountain town economies are acutely feeling the effects of climate change.
Letter writer says Lynch not fit for Montana Supreme Court
This is the "Lynch" campaign: baseless claims and inflammatory language.
Families, freedom and fairness
Under Gianforte’s government the uninsured rate has increased by 127,000 Montanans of all ages. His approach to Medicaid redetermination has failed.
County projected to receive $161k for trail projects
Two came from Lincoln County. The County Commissioners are seeking money to expand facilities at the Kootenai Falls Trailhead, including construction of bathrooms and a trailhead where the new parking lot leads to the trail. It is line to receive $62,479.
WILD ART-Annie
The Memorial Center in Libby was packed last weekend for four performances of Annie...
Registration open for RMEF World Elk Calling Championships in Big Sky
The competition, presented by Sportsman’s Warehouse, takes place on Saturday, June 15 in Big Sky, Montana, with more than $45,000 in cash and prizes going to top finishers.
Trial will go forward for man accused of running over Montana trooper
Tpr. Lewis Johnson suffered life-threatening injuries in the incident near Rexford and is still recovering after returning home to Chester, Montana in October 2023.
Analysis says county could get $368k for roads if SB 442 veto overridden
The Montana Supreme Court will have the ultimate say if whether Gianforte’s veto of the broadly supported bill that redistributes the state’s marijuana revenue to send more toward county roads and a legacy conservation program was done properly, since the state has filed a notice of an appeal of a Lewis and Clark County District Court decision.
California shed hunter killed in mountain lion attack
The male mountain lion weighed approximately 90 pounds and appeared to be in healthy condition.
Montanans pay $100,000 for legislative hubris and abuse of power
Unfortunately, in this case, the taxpayers will bear the burden of the Republican leaders’ misconduct, which will compel Montana citizens to seek relief through the courts.
Legals for March, 26 2024
Friday, March 22
Senate Bill 442: A bill for all Montanans
A lack of investment in our rural roads also hampers wildland firefighting efforts and leaves residents of rural locations without reliable service from first responders.
On first inspection weekend in Montana, first ‘mussel-fouled boat’ intercepted
Many invasive species have infected Montana waters, but so far, mussels have not, Lemon said. He said suspected mussel larvae were found in the Tiber Reservoir and Canyon Ferry Reservoir in 2016, but enough time has passed that those Missouri River Basin waterways are considered clear.
Trial will go forward for man accused of running over Montana trooper
Tpr. Lewis Johnson suffered life-threatening injuries in the incident near Rexford and is still recovering after returning home to Chester, Montana in October 2023.
WILD ART-Congressman Ryan Zinke
Among other subjects, Zinke spoke about the Ukraine, Israel, the U.S. Veterans Administration, border security and...
New deadline to enroll kids in Libby Public pre-school
Due to changes at the state level, open enrollment begins April 1 and must be completed by June 30.
Spring sports begin for south Lincoln Co. squads
The Libby boys and girls tennis squads are scheduled to be in Polson at 9 a.m. Friday to take on the Pirates. Matches with Hamilton will follow at about 11 a.m.
Washington man admits killing eagles on Flathead Reservation to sell on black market
Travis John Branson, 48, of Cusick, Washington, pleaded guilty to conspiracy, two counts of unlawful trafficking of bald and golden eagles and violation of the Lacey Act, which prohibits interstate trade in wildlife that has been taken, possessed, transported or sold in violation of federal or state law.
State sends out packets for lawmakers to try to override marijuana revenue bill veto
Courts ordered Executive Branch to mail out override polls by end of day Tuesday.
Winter weather expected to return to region
The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory across northwest Montana with snow and cold temperatures expected to possibly affect road conditions.
Libby man accused of cheating elderly Troy woman out of thousands
According to court documents, Swanson made hundreds of transactions totaling $87,620.89 in a span of 2 1/2-years between Nov. 1, 2019 and May 17, 2022.
Greenchain youth wrestlers ready for state Little Guy
Our Greenchain wrestlers haven’t peaked and it’s looking promising for success in Polson on March 23.
Held vs. Montana
The Montana district court ruling in Held vs. Montana wandered beyond constitutional directive into policy making.
Forest officials seeking comment on Trojan Defense project
The Trojan Defense Project Area is located west and southwest of Troy. The area of analysis is a mixed ownership of, and intermingled within, rural areas of Forest Service, private timber lands and residential homes and businesses outside of the Troy city limits.
Donovan Lee Adamson, 75
Donavon Lee Adamson
Application deadline for deer and elk permits is April 1
Some changes to regulations in effect; new license year began March 1.
Libby Assembly of God Church hosting noted author
Libby Assembly of God Church is hosting a few events next month about redemptive compassion.
Legals for March, 22 2024
Legals for March, 22 2024
Tuesday, March 19
State officials sound alarm on tax season, investor scams
The Montana Commissioner of Securities and Insurance is hosting 16 investor protection events in western Montana this month, including one in Libby at the Senior Center from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Thursday, March 28.
Montana proponents for public access, landowners, await implications of Wyoming lawsuit
Outcome of pending corner-crossing case could impact who has the right to use — or lock up — more than eight million acres across the West.
Sheriff's Office blotter
Joshua Glaese was arrested on an outstanding warrant in the 400 block of Montana Avenue, Libby.
State launching program to increase access to forensic fitness evaluations
Under the new system, a County Attorney may request a judge specify that a court-ordered forensic fitness evaluation be completed locally. If approved, the County Attorney’s office can select from a list of providers currently performing these services.
Dist. 3 commissioner, clerk and recorder seats up for grabs
There are four candidates seeking the District 3 county Commissioner seat. Two Republicans, one Democrat and one Independent filed to run for the six-year term.
Wild and Scenic Film Festival showcases splendor, adventure
The festival will include the journey of Katie Veteto as she learns how to “drive sweep” down the Middle Fork of the Salmon River.
Toxic-exposed veterans eligible for expanded VA Health Care
VA’s announcement means that veterans who served in the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Global War on Terror, or any other combat zone after 9/11 will be eligible to enroll directly in VA health care.
Norma Erickson
Norma Erickson
Montana FWP considers gear restrictions on Kootenai River
According to the agency, the rationale for the possible change is to provide more protections for bull trout and sub-legal rainbow trout. Specifically, the proposal seeks to reduce the catch-and-release mortality rates for the two species.
Fraud conviction nets Whitefish interior designer prison time
The defendant, Jennifer Michele Helm, aka Jennifer Michele, 45, pleaded guilty in November 2023 to wire fraud and to aggravated identity theft.
Libby officials propose water, sewage rate increases
City officials will hold a public hearing in council chambers at the city building at 7 p.m. Monday, April 8. The hearing will give Libby utility customers to hear the city’s recommended changes.
Family of Troy residents killed in DUI homicide oppose plea deal
Local attorney Amy Guth said the family of the men will oppose the terms of the deal between Polan Wright and Lincoln County Attorney Marcia Boris. It calls for a six-year suspended sentence.
Birth announcements
Family Birth Services announces the birth of Austin Drew Hostetler.
Teen dies after being struck by truck on U.S. 2
Speed is considered a factor in the crash.
Legals for March, 19 2024
Legals for March, 19 2024
Friday, March 15
Finding their own remedy: Veterans navigate a lack of mental health resources
Some veterans, like 44-year-old Murray, are accustomed to constantly being in danger, so staying one step ahead of any potential threat is how they’re wired and is something veterans continue to do after they get out of the military.
Gary Lee Lapka
Gary Lee Lapka
Harold W. Downing
Harold W. Downing
Kenneth Eugene “Blackjack” Waters
Kenneth Eugene “Blackjack” Waters
Montana man pleads guilty to federal wildlife trafficking charges
The Schubarth Ranch is engaged in the purchase, sale and breeding of “alternative livestock” such as mountain sheep, mountain goats and various ungulates. The primary market for Schubarth’s livestock is captive hunting operations, also known as shooting preserves or game ranches.
U.S., Canada and Ktunaxa Nation ink deal to mitigate waterborne pollution
The International Joint Commission will take up pollution in the Elk-Kootenai watershed, a development long sought by impacted tribes.
Love selected as Libby Schools Employee of Year
Love, who announced his retirement from the school at the March 4 board meeting, came to Libby Schools in 2012, according to Superintendent Ron Goodman.
Laws, compassion and common sense
Solomon listens to the women, each of them claiming that she is the child’s mother. Solomon then has a sword brought to him. His decision is that the child will be cut in half and one half given to each woman.
Lincoln Co. voters will decide fate of county library system
The county library system was formed nearly 104 years ago and supported by county property owners.
Greenchain Little Guy wrestlers head to Arlee for Intervalley
This weekend will be a chance for our wresters to see a different group of competition. It’s always exciting to see how Unit 1 matches up against the other teams, and from results so far, Unit 1 should do just fine.
Libby High School locked down due to alleged threat
“Our cooperating agencies across the state confirmed that our students were not at risk, when they confirmed the social media account belonged to a student in Gallatin County,” Ercanbrack said in the release.
Barbara (Barb) Lynn Jungst
Barbara (Barb) Lynn Jungst
Montana SB 442 funding formula is not fair
In the case of SB 442, the mechanism for allocating county road maintenance funding is inequitable and fundamentally unfair to the vast majority of Montanans.
Lincoln Co. 4-H clubs provide youth a place to learn
It’s fair to say for most of these kids it’s their first real interaction with the business world, managing money to sell something for profit and they are learning it as early as age of 8.
Legals for March, 15 2024
Legals for March, 15 2024
Tuesday, March 12
City rejects developers' money requests; debate continues over spending
Councilor Hugh Taylor made the initial motion to deny the requests and Ian Smith seconded it. Councilors Melissa Berke and Gary Beach joined Taylor and Smith in voting against giving the developers the money.
Birth announcement
The birth of Eleanor Joy O’Connell.
Libby man accused in police chase sentenced
Izack Thomas Howe, 18, was charged with two felony counts of criminal endangerment...
Libby woman sentenced on drug charge; enters treatment court
Salli Suzanne Bosma, 39, received a 10-year suspended sentence from Judge Matt Cuffe after pleading guilty...
Area man faces hefty restitution for gold, tool theft
Yeadon must also pay $13,975 in restitution to the victim.
City approves street closures for upcoming events
The headliner of the three events - the 2024 Ignite the Nites car show - is scheduled for Aug. 16-17.
Judge overturns water rights decision for proposed Broadwater County subdivision
McMahon hit the county for its preliminary approval of the Horse Creek Hills subdivision proposed by developer 71 Ranch despite an environmental assessment that failed to account for multiple water and natural resources impacts.
Libby man accused of strangling woman
Silas C. Behee, 36, is charged with felony strangulation of a partner or family member.
Stella Ann (Waggener) Jenkins
Stella Ann (Waggener) Jenkins
Legals for March, 12 2024
Friday, March 8
Rexford man dies in Lincoln Co. vehicle crash
The 4Runner got stuck in the mud and rolled. The Rexford man, who was not wearing a seat belt, died in the crash.
Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond
This week millionaires no longer pay into Social Security for the remainder of the year. That would change with passage of the Social Security Expansion Act and the Social Security 2100 Act.
Local briefs
In addition to the school assemblies, they will perform for the public in the Libby Elementary School Gym at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 12.
Monte Wicka
Monte Wicka
Kootenai Klassic a true measure of Libby civic pride
We rely heavily on wrestling families and community members to volunteer their time and energy to make the tournament a success.
New charge for Washington man accused of indecent exposure
Brown had another felony case filed against him recently for an assault in the Lincoln County Detention Center.
Libby woman charged in incident involving teens at high school
The case began when a woman and her son came to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office on Dec. 18 and alleged that Green threatened the teen earlier that day in the parking lot of the school.
Man wounded in accidental shooting
The caller reported that an adult male at the residence had accidentally shot himself in the lower leg while handling a pistol.
Mark “Harry” Bitterman
Mark “Harry” Bitterman
Advocates speak as county commissioners ponder library system future
The commissioners will hold a final meeting at 11 a.m. Monday, March 11 and accept public comment before deciding if they’ll put it on the ballot.
2024 Kootenai Klassic youth wrestling results
6. Eureka 330, 7. Libby 329, 8. Cabinet Mountain Elite 320.5.
Orville Lee Thorn
Orville Lee Thorn
Legals for March, 8 2024
Tuesday, March 5
Man accused of Gravel Pit Fire still waiting on mental health evaluation
According to charging documents, Eutsler previously lived in Williamstown, New Jersey. But he was described as living in his van at the time of the offense.
Fire destroys three Noxon businesses
Fire departments from Noxon, with mutual aid provided by Trout Creek and Heron fire departments, battled the fire in the small town’s main business district.
Suspect in Libby police chase appears in court
Covey is being held in the Lincoln County Detention Center on $2.5 million bail.
Sen. Bob Brown appointed to run state lottery
Before entering public service, Brown spent most of his professional career as a general contractor in the construction industry and five years as a special needs educational coordinator at the Spring Creek Lodge Academy in Sanders County.
Libby Ranger District seeks comment on roadside fuel break plan
The project area occurs in the Granite Creek, Big Cherry Creek, Lower Libby Creek and Flower Creek drainages.
Flathead Electric participates in project aimed at improving power grid
As part of the study, participating cooperatives, including Flathead Electric, will pilot distributed energy resource (DER) programs that utilize software to shift or reduce electric demand from participating members when extreme weather conditions impact the grid or when power prices spike.
State misses the mark on grizzly delisting
There must be trustworthy and credible state assurances that adequate laws and policies to manage grizzly mortalities will remain in place after delisting.
WILD ART-Packed House
Libby High School's Ralph Tate Gymnasium was packed Saturday with wrestling fans from northwest Montana...
Cabinet Peaks introduces physician-based hospitalists program to enhance patient care
This innovative approach ensures that patients receive specialized, round-the-clock attention from skilled medical professionals throughout their hospital stay.
Marlenea Kay Boykin, 58
Marlenea Kay Boykin
Judge Lynch for Chief Justice of the Montana Supreme Court: No substitute for experience
Montana stands at a pivotal juncture, where the integrity and impartiality of its judiciary are paramount.
Arrest warrant issued for Yaak man who assaulted his wife
Cuffe granted a two-week continuance, but following a second consecutive no-show, issued a $15,000 arrest warrant.
Sheriff's Office blotter
A deputy responded to the site of illegal dumping on U.S. Forest Service land on Pipe Creek Road.
County changes course for replacing hot water boilers
Lincoln County Maintenance Director Joe Nagle brought the matter of the leaking hot water boiler, installed in 1978, to the commissioners on Feb. 7.
Outdoors briefs
The Lincoln County Sno-Kats Club, organizers of the annual Snowmobile Poker Fun Run, is considering expanding its scope of interest to include ATV and UTV enthusiasts.
Montana Historical Society March public programs
At 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 21, at the Lewis and Clark Library, Montana Historical Society community preservation coordinator Kate Hampton will give a talk titled "They Are Our B17s! Norden Bombsight Training Facilities in Montana."
Legals for March, 5 2024
Monday, March 4
One injured in Bonners Ferry head-on train crash
Boundary County Dispatch was notified of the head-on collision between the two Union Pacific trains on the road, located about a half-mile west of Bonners Ferry.
Friday, March 1
Man sentenced for role in Troy restaurant arson, burglary
District Judge Matt Cuffe agreed to waive more than $800 in fines and court fees, but Haughton still must pay $18,711.50 in restitution.
Did you know...
County commissioners are currently accepting written public comments regarding the library through March 4.
Robert Norman Stright
Robert Norman Stright
Jean Anne (Chester) Sonju
Jean Anne (Chester) Sonju
Carol B. Cooper
Carol B. Cooper
In support of new library district
Now it appears the likelihood of Lincoln County Public Library services are on the brink of closure.
Libby man pleads guilty to sexually assaulting girl
Emerick must undergo a psycho-sexual evaluation before he is sentenced.
County library officials plead their case for system support
“Our attendance levels are getting back to pre-Covid levels,” she said. “We had more than 50,000 visitors to our three libraries in 2023, so we believe we are a vital part of the community,” Ramirez said.
Losing patience while talking politics
It may sound dramatic, but I feel the fate of our nation hangs in the balance with the upcoming Presidential election and it’s my civic duty to open my trap, uncomfortable as it may be at times.
Libby Public Schools launches new method of school-home communication
According to a press release from the school district, ParentSquare is a simple and unified school-to-home communication platform intended to reach and engage every parent, helping ensure all parents have the opportunity to actively participate in their children’s education.
In opposition to Snake River dam breaching
The agreement stated replacement power would be clean, renewable, socially-just energy sources.
Beverly Jean (Bernhard) O’Brien
Beverly Jean (Bernhard) O’Brien
More than one way to interfere with an election
Therein lies the McConnell-Daines strategy; find a handpicked puppet that they can buy a Senate seat for and then completely control.
Libby's Jace DeShazer leaves a legacy of excellence
“He’s left a great legacy and it’ll carry on for a long time,” said Greenchain head coach Dean Thompson. “We’re really gonna miss his leadership and I’ll miss him a lot because he’s such a fun kid to be around. You can joke with him, but when he needs to be serious, he is.”
Libby VFD continues its dedication to community
The department’s members spent more than 3,500 hours in skills, classroom training and responding to calls, including fires, traffic accidents and medical emergency calls.
Libby's last 3-time champ, JR Rebo, happy to get company at the top
Rebo, who is sixth on the all-time wins list with 126, said he was able to coach DeShazer a little bit in middle school.
NorthWestern Energy plans protect Montana customers
Anyone who takes more than a cursory look at the steps NorthWestern has made over the last several years to diversify their portfolio and ensure supply reliability can easily see...
Libby Friends of Library book sale set for March 1
This month there are several different features, including things Irish, to help you celebrate March 17 as well as quilter’s magazines with patterns and several National Geographic Series books.
