Stories for February 2025

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Friday, February 28

Aver ordered to pay county $20,000 for animal care
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Aver ordered to pay county $20,000 for animal care

According to a court document filed Jan. 10, Steven David Aver, 64, and county Attorney Marcia Boris agreed to a pretrial diversion agreement...

February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Senate Dems Are Putting Montanans First — Federal Delegation Should Do the Same

How can we invest in Montana’s future if the very programs that create opportunity are on the chopping block?

February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

USPS scraps plan to move Missoula mail processing to Spokane

New postal service strategy aiming to save $3 billion annually allows Missoula facility to continue local processing.

February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond

Trump posted on X that the “America First” reconciliation bill will make America great again. The bill proposes an $800 billion cut to Medicaid. In the past Trump said he opposed Medicaid cuts.

Trojans in Hamilton for Class B Divisional Basketball
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Trojans in Hamilton for Class B Divisional Basketball

The Trojans are enjoying their best season since 2011-12 when...

Libby welcomes new police officer
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby welcomes new police officer

Libby Police Chief Cody Ercanbrack swears in new...

February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Retired Forest Service employee shocked at Trump/Musk firings

The loss of these jobs is yet another hit to the economy and tax base of Lincoln and Sanders counties.

Hound handlers, state work together to monitor lion numbers
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Hound handlers, state work together to monitor lion numbers

The local handlers bring a high level of integrity to the data being collected.

Lynda K. Johnson
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Lynda K. Johnson

Lynda K. Johnson

Libby man accused of threatening woman with gun
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby man accused of threatening woman with gun

According to court documents, on Jan. 30, a woman approached Libby Police...

Libby's Bache wins McGregor Lake ice fishing derby
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Bache wins McGregor Lake ice fishing derby

In the kids’ division, Bridger Moe stood on top with his 3-pound, 11.9-ounce rainbow trout.

North Dakota sex offender faces charge for not registering in Montana
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

North Dakota sex offender faces charge for not registering in Montana

Cooper's arraignment on the charge is scheduled for March 3.

Geraldine Ann (Porter) Snell
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Geraldine Ann (Porter) Snell

Geraldine Ann (Porter) Snell

Nora L. Berry
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Nora L. Berry

Nora L. Berry

Wardens investigating dead mountain lion near Troy
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Wardens investigating dead mountain lion near Troy

Callers may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

WILD ART-Farmer's Market at Libby receives large gift
February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

WILD ART-Farmer's Market at Libby receives large gift

This new location was the result of a generous offer from property owner, Chris Noble of Noble Excavating.

February 28, 2025 7 a.m.

Ticked-off Libby Logger displeased with Sen. Daines

As always, I look forward to your generic and meaningless response written by some paid staffer.

February 28, 2025 midnight

Legals for February, 28 2025

Tuesday, February 25

Troy woman pleads not guilty to endangering toddler
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy woman pleads not guilty to endangering toddler

According to charging documents, Montana Highway Patrol Tpr. Virgil Sadewasser reported...

Libby basketball, cheer and pep band celebrate Senior Night
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby basketball, cheer and pep band celebrate Senior Night

Ryan Beagle, Alderic Martineau and Aidan Rose are each...

Linehan Outfitting named Montana's top outfitter
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Linehan Outfitting named Montana's top outfitter

This award recognizes outstanding dedication, leadership and significant contributions to...

Owen Tracy Dickerson
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Owen Tracy Dickerson

Owen Tracy Dickerson

Libby Elementary School celebrated Random Acts of Kindness week
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Elementary School celebrated Random Acts of Kindness week

Libby Elementary School celebrated...

Libby woman charged with biting detention officer
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby woman charged with biting detention officer

According to the charging document, county deputy...

Unchartered Waters: UM Students Study Wildfire Impacts on Mountain Lakes
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Unchartered Waters: UM Students Study Wildfire Impacts on Mountain Lakes

In 2018, the National Park Service discovered a substantial rise in nutrient concentrations in Lake McDonald, one of Glacier’s most visited lakes. Increases in nutrients, mainly nitrogen and phosphorus, can cause nuisance growth of algae, threatening the clarity of the park’s lakes, which are among the area’s biggest draws.

Norita Skramstad
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Norita Skramstad

Norita Skramstad

Former Troy resident pleads not guilty to abandoning puppies
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Former Troy resident pleads not guilty to abandoning puppies

Deputy Brandon Huff responded, spoke with shelter staff and deputy Smith and was told there were 17 dogs in the boxes.

February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

County government review underway

Meeting locations, agendas, minutes and contact information for the Study Commission can be found on the Lincoln County web page.

Libby man accused of threatening woman, child with gun
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby man accused of threatening woman, child with gun

Toczek was held in the Lincoln County Detention Center before...

February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

A few words about the bull at J. Neils Memorial Park

As you said: mining has not been good for our economy and his timber based economy has been destroyed.

Ian Smith resigns Libby City councilor seat
February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Ian Smith resigns Libby City councilor seat

Smith must live in Troy to be a member of the force and his change in residency means he can not be a city councilor in Libby.

February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Summer program to help Montana children with food cut from state budget

Some legislators feared it was duplicative, but others said it’s sorely needed.

February 25, 2025 7 a.m.

Bill to reduce number of Montana Supreme Court justices dies in House

House Bill 322 would have cut two justices from the Montana Supreme Court, winnowing it down to five.

Friday, February 21

Freezing rain, flood warnings issued for Northwest Montana
February 21, 2025 2 p.m.

Freezing rain, flood warnings issued for Northwest Montana

According to the Lincoln County Emergency Management Agency, forecasters in Missoula indicated a probability of an inch of rain in the valleys, 1.5 inches in the north end of the county and 2-plus inches in the Cabinet Mountains.

Toxic plant to blame for death of Bitterroot elk calves
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Toxic plant to blame for death of Bitterroot elk calves

The calves were found by homeowners in the area between Jan. 15 and 23. Examinations conducted on two of the calves revealed high quantities of toxic Japanese yew in their stomachs.

James R. Rostorfer
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

James R. Rostorfer

James R. Rostorfer

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Critics warn bills would let BNSF off hook in asbestos-related suits

Anthony Nicastro, R-Billings, who sponsored all three bills, has represented BNSF in several cases involving the railway’s liability in over 3,000 asbestos-related deaths and illnesses in Northwest Montana.

Libby Loggers girls basketball celebrates Senior Night
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Loggers girls basketball celebrates Senior Night

Peyton Waggoner also played all four years and plans on attending college...

Greenchain wrestlers Orr, Miles claim state medals
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Greenchain wrestlers Orr, Miles claim state medals

The Greenchain scored 61 points and were 12th as a team in the 24-team field.

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Ode to Ye Ole' Clearcut

Popsicle sticks, matches, toothpicks, pencils - credit clearcuts.

Leland “Pete” Edward Hoeltzel
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Leland “Pete” Edward Hoeltzel

Leland “Pete” Edward Hoeltzel

Kootenai Valley Ducks Unlimited annual dinner April 26
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Kootenai Valley Ducks Unlimited annual dinner April 26

Doors will open at 5 p.m. with a barbecue dinner at 5:30 p.m.

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Lincoln County's CASA grateful for Flathead Electric's Roundup for Safety

Thanks to the Roundup for Safety grant awarded to CASA of Lincoln County, we have been able to fund fingerprint-based background checks for our volunteers ensuring all those who work with the children we serve are thoroughly vetted and trustworthy.

Germany reaches deal with county in youth assault case
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Germany reaches deal with county in youth assault case

Germany worked at Libby Public Schools from 2002 until his resignation following the assault accusation.

Libby Middle High School gets new water filling stations with LOR grant
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Middle High School gets new water filling stations with LOR grant

Rochin wrote the grant with the help of local LOR director Tabitha Viergutz.

George J. Bondurant
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

George J. Bondurant

George J. Bondurant

State continues work to protect wild lands in Northwest Montana
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

State continues work to protect wild lands in Northwest Montana

The new easement would encompass forestlands in the Cabinet Mountains between Kalispell and Libby.

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Putting Montana families first with paid family leave

It’s good for families, good for businesses and good for Montana.

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

New hunting, fishing and conservation license year begins March 1

Deer and elk permit application deadline is April 1.

FWP meeting Feb. 24 on Tobacco Valley elk management
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

FWP meeting Feb. 24 on Tobacco Valley elk management

FWP Wildlife Biologist Ethan Lula is hosting the meeting with interested members of the public to help gauge public satisfaction with current hunting season structures...

Dissatisfaction growing over Trump policies, actions
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Dissatisfaction growing over Trump policies, actions

Last week in front of the Lincoln County Courthouse, Roesler-Begalke’s publicly illustrated his displeasure with the actions of Pres. Donald Trump and Elon Musk.

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Lincoln Co. Republican Club meeting Feb. 27

Guest speakers will be...

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

Love, Boe's lunkers highlight Fisher River Ice Fishing Derby

One of the big fundraisers for the Auxiliary saw several anglers bring home several beautiful rainbow trout and some good-sized northern pike.

John Francis Wagner
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

John Francis Wagner

John Francis Wagner

February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

The courage to face political threats

Scotten could not make a deal with the devil by following orders he knew were wrong.

David J. Cole
February 21, 2025 7 a.m.

David J. Cole

David J. Cole

February 21, 2025 midnight

Legals for February, 21 2025

Tuesday, February 18

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy man dies in car-train collision

The car stopped on the tracks, then attempted to back up.

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Protecting the Cabinet Mountains: Say No to Mining in Our Wilderness

The Cabinets are beloved by all who've recreated in it, and particularly the fortunate residents of Libby and Troy, upon whom extractive industries have historically bestowed considerably less fortune over the same time period, a litany of which need not be relitigated.

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Chamber supports Montanore Mine project

Our business members have an interest in the project’s jobs creation since the early adit dewatering rehabilitation process will generate 6 to 10 jobs and then generate 30 to 35 direct jobs.

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Federal government approves BNSF’s grizzly conservation plan

The railroad will support conservation efforts in northwest Montana in return for a permit allowing it to ‘take’ 19 grizzly bears over seven years.

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Officials will consider banning motorized boats on Bull River

The Fish, Wildlife and Parks commission voted Wednesday to accept a petition calling for the regulation of motorized watercraft on the Bull River in Northwest Montana.

Libby sled riders
February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby sled riders

Ward Bland, of Libby, and his son, Oliver, enjoy a sled ride...

More charges for Libby man accused in transgender incident
February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

More charges for Libby man accused in transgender incident

According to the probable cause statement by county deputy Christopher Pape, he was...

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Sheriff's Office blotter

A deputy took a dog to the shelter following a complaint in the 300 block of Templin Drive, Troy.

Comfort Inn coming to Libby’s Kootenai Business Park
February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Comfort Inn coming to Libby’s Kootenai Business Park

The 80-room hotel in a multiple-floor story building will also feature...

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Cruelty of federal firings hits home

Even more alarming, many of these positions augment firefighting crews.

February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

New Billings veterinary college set to launch in 2026

Since that appointment, the College has charted an ambitious course to fulfill accreditation requirements and complete construction of a 60,000-square foot facility in time to welcome its first class of 40 students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) in July 2026.

Troy basketball teams celebrate Senior Night
February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy basketball teams celebrate Senior Night

The Trojans are back in action this weekend in St. Ignatius at the 7B tournament.

Birth announcement: Eleanor Diana Whitney
February 18, 2025 7 a.m.

Birth announcement: Eleanor Diana Whitney

Family Birth Services is pleased to the announce the birth of Eleanor...

Friday, February 14

Walter "Wally" J. Hume Jr.
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Walter "Wally" J. Hume Jr.

Walter "Wally" J. Hume Jr.

February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond

Trump’s government funding freeze is impacting farmers.

February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Lawmakers debate Republican income tax relief proposals

Two proposals by GOP leaders in legislature would expand the lower tax bracket to encompass middle class, while governor continues touting ‘historic’ top-down approach.

February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Montana men plead guilty to fish and wildlife violations

Both men will also lose their hunting, fishing and trapping privileges for 20 years.

February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

State officials issue influenza warning; monitor bird flu

Between Sept. 29, 2024 and Feb. 1, 2025, there were 16 influenza-associated deaths reported to the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services.

James Arnold Judkins
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

James Arnold Judkins

James Arnold Judkins

February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Another step toward tyranny?

The blocked funding includes hundreds of millions for broadband improvements across Montana and millions in U.S. Department of Agriculture payments for our agriculture producers.

Troy man sentenced in West Kootenai road rage incident
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy man sentenced in West Kootenai road rage incident

Reid’s case began at about 3:30 a.m. Sunday, Aug. 25, 2024, according to...

Local woman pleads to DUI with child in car
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Local woman pleads to DUI with child in car

According to the supplemental narrative by county deputy Ben Fisher, his shift was about to end...

UM Research: Reforestation Needs in the West to Double by 2050
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

UM Research: Reforestation Needs in the West to Double by 2050

While severe fires create large areas in need of reforestation, a warming climate simultaneously limits a forest’s ability to regenerate on its own.

Angela L. (Jill) Wilson
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Angela L. (Jill) Wilson

Angela L. (Jill) Wilson

LOR grant helps Turner Mountain get new snowmobile
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

LOR grant helps Turner Mountain get new snowmobile

Turner Mountain Ski Patrol applied for and was awarded a grant from LOR to fund the purchase ...

Troy High School Drama Club puts on a show to remember
February 14, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy High School Drama Club puts on a show to remember

Despite some unforeseen setbacks, Troy High School Auditorium hosted two shows Friday and Saturday evening.

February 14, 2025 midnight

Legals for February, 14 2025

Tuesday, February 11

Libby's Siefke wins Halfway House pike derby
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Siefke wins Halfway House pike derby

But a well-timed cold snap built a good 10 inches on the 107-acre lake...

Greenchain wrestlers send 15 to state tournament
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Greenchain wrestlers send 15 to state tournament

Led by senior Riley Orr's win at 118 pounds, he and 14 other Greenchain wrestlers will...

Keith Raymond McBride
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Keith Raymond McBride

Keith Raymond McBride

February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby man accused of assaulting jail guard, burglary

After Harsh was taken into custody the first time, he was accused of striking and kicking a detention officer during a Dec. 31, 2024, incident.

February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

What does Moses have to do with chemistry, anyway?

If you want to teach kids about the power of religion, maybe start with something more simple...

Libby woman sentenced in drug possession case
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby woman sentenced in drug possession case

According to her terms of release, Willey is not allowed to use or possess alcohol, dangerous drugs or weapons.

Elk-Kootenai Watershed Board seeks comment on draft plan
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Elk-Kootenai Watershed Board seeks comment on draft plan

The independent body comprised of experts and knowledge holders from Canada, the United States and the Ktunaxa Nation was established by the International Joint Commission (IJC) to explore the impacts of transboundary water pollution in the Elk-Kootenai watershed.

February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Senior Commodities distribution Feb. 21 at Libby VFD

If you have questions, please feel free to call...

Marlene Margaret Torgerson
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Marlene Margaret Torgerson

Marlene Margaret Torgerson

February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

Montana Junior Duck Stamp 2025 Call for Entries

Artwork can be drawn using ink, paint, pastel, crayon or pencil.

James Arnold Judkins
February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

James Arnold Judkins

James Arnold Judkins

February 11, 2025 7 a.m.

FVCC announces Fall 2024 Dean’s List

The following students are listed in alphabetical order by their home communities...

February 11, 2025 midnight

Legals for February, 11 2025

Friday, February 7

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Inmate seeks better educational opportunities at Warm Springs

By investing in such initiatives, we can help patients develop new skills, improve their mental health and increase their chances of successful reintegration into the community.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Application deadline for Smith River permits is Feb. 15

Applicants can apply for a Smith River float permit online through the Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks Online Licenses Service...

Dale Alfred Gerald Gardner
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Dale Alfred Gerald Gardner

Dale Alfred Gerald Gardner

FWP expands study of South Fork elk herds to Bob Marshall Wilderness
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

FWP expands study of South Fork elk herds to Bob Marshall Wilderness

FWP biologists are conducting this effort in response to declines in elk numbers and poor calf recruitment...

Lloyd Esbon Bache
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Lloyd Esbon Bache

Lloyd Esbon Bache

Louis (Louie) L. Jenkins
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Louis (Louie) L. Jenkins

Louis (Louie) L. Jenkins

Rexford man sentenced for partner assault
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Rexford man sentenced for partner assault

She told the deputy she was sleeping on the couch when Sims started...

Local health care providers get training in sepsis
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Local health care providers get training in sepsis

Wednesday, Cabinet Peaks Medical Center hosted a special training event for its...

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Berm jumping leads to felony charge

After getting a description of the man from the employee, Pitman spoke to...

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Sheriff's Office blotter

A citizen reported a neighbor pointing a gun at her as they drove past each other on Othorp Lake Road, Rexford.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Trump energy policy aims to unplug Endangered Species Act

Executive orders direct agencies to minimize consultations, giving priority to energy, mining permits.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Report: If Medicaid expansion ends, be prepared to pay more for private insurance

The study says more than half of Montana could become uninsured.

Libby man pleads not guilty to violating protective order
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby man pleads not guilty to violating protective order

According to charging documents, Judge Cuffe issued a Temporary Order of Protection Nov. 7, 2024, against...

Yaak Outhouse races offer a cure for cabin fever
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Yaak Outhouse races offer a cure for cabin fever

Sunday, Feb. 16, the Yaak will celebrate winter with the annual Yaak River Tavern and Mercantile Outhouse Races.

County officials continue effort to improve animal shelter
February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

County officials continue effort to improve animal shelter

The commissioners were unanimous in their support for the county to run the facility.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Are passenger trains entering a golden age or reaching the end of the line?

Amid shifting political winds in Washington, D.C., and aging equipment across the country, passenger rail in Montana faces an uncertain future.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Public School holding trustee election

For those interested in serving as a trustee, they will need to obtain a declaration of intent form at the Libby Public Schools Business Office at 724 Louisiana Ave., Libby.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond

The Lever said Musk’s move, reportedly approved by Trump’s new Treasury Secretary, gave him access to $6 trillion in annual federal transactions, and access to his business competitors’ info and Americans’ personal info.

February 7, 2025 7 a.m.

Montana leaders are ignoring the real priorities facing the Treasure State

These representatives are not paying attention to the people they represent enough to even know our basic needs.

February 7, 2025 midnight

Legals for February, 7 2025

Tuesday, February 4

February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond

Promoters of government use of Bitcoin include the Koch Network (a collection of oil and petrochemical companies, including pesticides...

Margaret “Peggy” Moe
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Margaret “Peggy” Moe

Margaret “Peggy” Moe

CPMC Foundation welcomes three new board members
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

CPMC Foundation welcomes three new board members

The CPMC Foundation warmly welcomes Brian, Jamie, and Bonnie, appreciating their unique talents and...

February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Thompson SAR offers free avalanche safety course Feb. 21-22

The two-day course, which is open to the public, is designed for snow enthusiasts who want to learn how to recognize, manage and minimize avalanche hazards.

Libby Wrestling Senior Night
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Wrestling Senior Night

They also welcomed the Libby Little Guy wrestlers...

Dorothy Ann (Tiffany) Shelley
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Dorothy Ann (Tiffany) Shelley

Dorothy Ann (Tiffany) Shelley

Kathleen Callahan Stright
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Kathleen Callahan Stright

Kathleen Callahan Stright

Libby's Stevenson named Academic All-Big Sky team
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Stevenson named Academic All-Big Sky team

The Bobby Hauck-coached football team's 40 selections were the most for that sport in the Big Sky and the third-most in program history.

County hosting multiple ice fishing tourneys
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

County hosting multiple ice fishing tourneys

This weekend, the hot spot will be Bull Lake for its Ninth Annual Ice Fishing Derby.

February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Former Troy woman accused in puppy abandonment case

According to the charging document, county dispatch deputy got a call in the early evening hours of Feb. 1, 2024, about a passerby finding...

Greenchain wrestlers wrap up memorable week with safe homecoming
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Greenchain wrestlers wrap up memorable week with safe homecoming

The Greenchain never made it all the way up Highway 37 after the bus...

February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Letter to Montana citizens and businesses that rely on Amtrak

Contact Rep. Zinke’s offices and inform the Congressman that he needs to support...

Kootenai Outdoor Adventurers host youth ski program
February 4, 2025 7 a.m.

Kootenai Outdoor Adventurers host youth ski program

Ski day was Thursday, Jan. 30, and program leader Bill Moe said there were nearly 50 students in fifth through eighth grades.

February 4, 2025 midnight

Legals for February, 4 2025