Stories for May 2025

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Friday, May 30

Debbie “Debra” Roseann Wallin
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Debbie “Debra” Roseann Wallin

Debbie “Debra” Roseann Wallin

Lee Roy Morton
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Lee Roy Morton

Lee Roy Morton

Libby's Farmer, Andersen win medals at state track and field championships
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Farmer, Andersen win medals at state track and field championships

Held at Legends Stadium in Kalispell, freshman Capri Farmer claimed two medals, including a silver, while junior Tristan Andersen grabbed the third precious medal.

William H. "Bill" Cook
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

William H. "Bill" Cook

William H. "Bill" Cook

Libby’s Rambo honored for sacrifice in Vietnam
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby’s Rambo honored for sacrifice in Vietnam

Rambo was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, a Purple Heart and...

No mountain too tall: Libby’s Beagle repeats as state tennis champ
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

No mountain too tall: Libby’s Beagle repeats as state tennis champ

Beagle, Libby’s first boys state champion, won back-to-back Montana High School Association Class A singles titles...

Samuel Aurther Moore
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Samuel Aurther Moore

Samuel Aurther Moore

Playing for Fundsies Golf Tourney to feature Caddy Shack theme
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Playing for Fundsies Golf Tourney to feature Caddy Shack theme

Wear your best Caddy shack attire for a chance to win a prize...

Alice K. Grunerud
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Alice K. Grunerud

Alice K. Grunerud

May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy tennis caps season with state experience in Missoula

The group earned their state berths after...

Troy softball battles at state, ends season 19-9
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy softball battles at state, ends season 19-9

Needing a win to stay alive in the tournament, Troy bounced back impressively...

May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

When a state turns blue

When a state turns blue

Ben Graham Memorial Golf Tournament set for June 6-8
May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Ben Graham Memorial Golf Tournament set for June 6-8

Proceeds from the tournament go to support youth golf in Libby!

May 30, 2025 7 a.m.

Women's golf league results

Barb Mee was the winner for Group A and Pat Neils was B Group winner...

May 30, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 30 2025

Wednesday, May 28

Libby man jailed on negligent homicide charge in toddler's death
May 28, 2025 4:40 p.m.

Libby man jailed on negligent homicide charge in toddler's death

When law officers and Libby Volunteer Ambulance members arrived the scene they were told...

Tuesday, May 27

May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

What did this debacle cost?

Too late now, but maybe he should have consulted someone who actually does this for a living and knows that messed up green Lodgepole isn’t a hot ticket for firewood in this part of the world.

Downtown businesses hosting Libby Nights
May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Downtown businesses hosting Libby Nights

Each Libby Night will feature something a little different—specials, surprises, and seasonal treats—so stay tuned for updates. Let’s bring back the Logger spirit and make downtown Libby a gathering place once again.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Creates a New Bonners Ferry Stake
May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Creates a New Bonners Ferry Stake

The new Stake marks a significant milestone in the Church’s growth and organization within these communities.

May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Fines for aquatic invasive species violations increase under new law

Gov. Gianforte recently signed HB 242, doubling the fines for failing to stop at boat check stations.

Thomas (Tom) Lawrence Switzer
May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Thomas (Tom) Lawrence Switzer

Thomas (Tom) Lawrence Switzer

Birds of Prey Northwest returns to Libby Dam May 31
May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Birds of Prey Northwest returns to Libby Dam May 31

The Visitor Center will open at 9:30 a.m. and the first show with the birds will be at 10 am. The second show is at 11:30 a.m.

Battle over Port Authority's business dealings continues in court filings
May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Battle over Port Authority's business dealings continues in court filings

The attorney also wrote that of the five current Port Authority Board members, Chair Jerry Bennett, county Commissioner Brent Teske, Tony Petrusha, Chris Bache and Kevin Peck, several were not on the board at the time transactions were made involving Noble Industries and Thompson Contracting.

In the eyes of the beholder: Troy students are talented artists
May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

In the eyes of the beholder: Troy students are talented artists

Seniors Christina Hammer and Bella O’Day showcased four years of work in the high school gym.

May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Bits n’ pieces from east, west and beyond

A Ukraine-U.S. deal has been reached on sharing Ukraine’s...

May 27, 2025 7 a.m.

Way to go Libby

i've been noticing that a lot lately, Downtown Libby is...

May 27, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 27 2025

Friday, May 23

May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy tennis sends seven to state after breakout divisional performance

In the singles bracket, Shelby Cole, Jolene Foutch and Miley Babcock placed fourth, fifth, and sixth respectively...

Libby, Troy eye medals at state track and field
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby, Troy eye medals at state track and field

In Polson, freshman Capri Farmer was a top performer for the Loggers...

Cecil “Jamie" Riggles Jr.
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Cecil “Jamie" Riggles Jr.

Cecil “Jamie" Riggles Jr.

Brent Wepprecht
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Brent Wepprecht

Brent Wepprecht

Cabinet Peaks OB/GYN Clinic welcomes new physician
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Cabinet Peaks OB/GYN Clinic welcomes new physician

With over 15 years of experience in women’s health, Dr. Christian brings...

Libby's a happening place
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's a happening place

And if that weren't enough, the Rotary Club of the Kootenai Valley hosted...

Deer ticks have arrived in Montana
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Deer ticks have arrived in Montana

State health officials are asking the public's help this spring with tick surveillance...

Libby officials approve Community Development Fund policy
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby officials approve Community Development Fund policy

The Community Development Fund balance currently sits at nearly...

May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby softball wraps up season with tough tournament loss

In the circle, Weslee MacDonald started and delivered four solid innings...

Food-conditioned grizzly bear killed in Yellowstone National Park
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Food-conditioned grizzly bear killed in Yellowstone National Park

Park staff trapped and killed 11-year-old male griz after repeatedly gaining access to human food, trash.

Gerald Dale "Jerry" Shields
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Gerald Dale "Jerry" Shields

Gerald Dale "Jerry" Shield

Lincoln Co. students explore watershed health
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Lincoln Co. students explore watershed health

In total, 24 students participated in the field trips, which highlighted the impact of non-point source pollution...

Louis Sidney Jam
May 23, 2025 7 a.m.

Louis Sidney Jam

Louis Sidney Jam

May 23, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 23 2025

Tuesday, May 20

Eureka man guilty of running magic mushroom grow operation
May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Eureka man guilty of running magic mushroom grow operation

A conviction for criminal production or manufacture of dangerous drugs may result in a maximum...

Libby's Beagle wins fourth divisional; eyes second state title
May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Beagle wins fourth divisional; eyes second state title

Beagle is also seeking a fourth medal. He was third in his freshman and sophomore seasons.

Several Memorial Day events planned in south Lincoln Co.
May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Several Memorial Day events planned in south Lincoln Co.

At 1 p.m. Saturday, May 24, the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 97 will hold a celebration for the statue known as Libby’s cemetery angel known as “Remembrance.”

Rambo Memorial Bridge dedication set for May 25
May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Rambo Memorial Bridge dedication set for May 25

The family invites recipients of the Libby High School Arthur J Rambo Memorial Scholarship.

May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy Library expansion project on hold

Launched in 2019, the TLOC project was designed to expand access to community programs, modernize facilities and foster a community spirit in Troy. Thanks to the dedication of staff, community stakeholders and partners, the project has...

Eureka man faces assault with weapon charge
May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Eureka man faces assault with weapon charge

According to court documents, the injured victim...

Troy Lady Trojans reach state softball tourney for first time
May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy Lady Trojans reach state softball tourney for first time

The Lady Trojans (18-7) won their next three games, all by four runs, and will head to the State B tournament...

May 20, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy softball: Driven to new heights

These are the Troy Lady Trojans, who enter this week’s Western B Divisional as the fourth seed.

May 20, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 20 2025

Friday, May 16

Libby man accused of witness tampering
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby man accused of witness tampering

On March 31, the assault victim informed Lincoln County Sheriff’s deputies that...

Lady Trojans softball celebrate Senior Day
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Lady Trojans softball celebrate Senior Day

Saturday, following the varsity games, Lady Trojan seniors Autumn Fisher, Leslie Gravier, Tana Grant and Mahaila Gillespie were honored for their contributions to the program.

Howell returns to work as county elections seek stability
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Howell returns to work as county elections seek stability

Howell spoke to The Western News on Election Night, Tuesday, May 6, about the situation and her return to the job she was hired to do in May 2023.

Chris Lundin
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Chris Lundin

Chris Lundin

Richard (Dick) Jess Hoyer
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Richard (Dick) Jess Hoyer

Richard (Dick) Jess Hoyer

Troy High School hosting annual art show May 20
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy High School hosting annual art show May 20

Christina Hammer and Bella O’Day will showcase works from their entire school career.

May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Keeping Elections Safe Keeps Montana Safe

All Montanans, regardless of party affiliation, must have confidence in the purity of our elections.

May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

One man's thoughts on tourism dollars

We do not need tourists to support our towns and cities.

Local’s Eagle Scout project in honor of those who served
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Local’s Eagle Scout project in honor of those who served

After getting the unanimous support of councilors at the April 21 Libby City Council meeting...

May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

2025 Montana Budget: Balanced, Responsible and Delivering Tax Relief

Our $3.5 billion annual General Fund budget prioritizes what I call the “Big Three”:...

May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Montana’s growth depends on smart investment policy

That’s why recent discussions in Washington about raising taxes on investments, specifically carried interest, are so concerning.

May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Gov. Gianforte signs MEPA bills into law

Bills Republicans sponsored in the wake of the Held v. Montana youth climate enter the state’s legal framework.

Libby Legion Auxiliary donates military service animal books to library
May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Legion Auxiliary donates military service animal books to library

The Auxiliary pays tribute to the sacrifices and heroic deeds of service animals and their handlers throughout World War II with the new book donations.

May 16, 2025 7 a.m.

Troubled Waters Start Here

Yes, the dams also provide water for municipal water systems and recreation.

May 16, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 16 2025

Tuesday, May 13

Dozens battle large wildfire in Lincoln Co.
May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

Dozens battle large wildfire in Lincoln Co.

Fire officials said dry and windy conditions apparently allowed a slow simmering fire to grow quickly Friday and Saturday.

Libby woman sentenced for selling meth, prescription drugs
May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby woman sentenced for selling meth, prescription drugs

Rowe, who entered and left the courtroom with the aid of a...

Libby's Heritage Museum set to open Saturday
May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Heritage Museum set to open Saturday

Opening day events will include a special presentation by local historian Jeff Gruber. He will share the story of the Libby Dam, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.

Pied-in-the-face principals highlight Libby Spirit Assembly
May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

Pied-in-the-face principals highlight Libby Spirit Assembly

Capping the school week Friday, sixth-grade students in the Libby Educational...

May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

Title III money buoys county first responders

Retiring county Forester Jennifer Nelson began squirreling away...

CARD, feds fight back against BNSF's effort to collect on lawsuit
May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

CARD, feds fight back against BNSF's effort to collect on lawsuit

The federal government joined CARD’s effort to keep its doors open, serving the patients who have grown to rely on its treatment and support for 25 years.

Libby Loggers celebrate Senior Night with big wins
May 13, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Loggers celebrate Senior Night with big wins

Libby honored Peyton Waggoner, Madison Vincent and Rachel Kosters...

May 13, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 13 2025

Friday, May 9

Patricia Robertson King
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Patricia Robertson King

Patricia Robertson King

May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby tennis teams split with Polson

Ryan Beagle gave the Loggers their lone victory of the day...

Libby, Troy athletes post strong marks at county meet
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby, Troy athletes post strong marks at county meet

Libby dominated the varsity javelin field, with Tristan Andersen winning at 164-7.

Mary Lee Cole
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Mary Lee Cole

Mary Lee Cole

Lincoln County voters pick school trustees; dump Libby levy
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Lincoln County voters pick school trustees; dump Libby levy

Libby School District voters defeated the request by a more than two to one margin.

Eugene Kirschenmann
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Eugene Kirschenmann

Eugene Kirschenmann

Gerald (Jerry) Byron Wandler
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Gerald (Jerry) Byron Wandler

Gerald (Jerry) Byron Wandler

Georgia Rosanne Sam
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Georgia Rosanne Sam

Georgia Rosanne Sam

FWP hosts workshops to get input for new mule deer management plan
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

FWP hosts workshops to get input for new mule deer management plan

The new Statewide Mule Deer Management Plan will reflect public concerns...

Record setting javelin throw
May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Record setting javelin throw

Libby seventh-grade student Hudson Hannah's javelin toss of...

May 9, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy tennis hosts packed invite, honors seniors with strong showing

Saturday also served as a moment of reflection and celebration as seniors...

May 9, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 9 2025

Wednesday, May 7

Libby's CARD Clinic closed following court ruling
May 7, 2025 3:30 p.m.

Libby's CARD Clinic closed following court ruling

BNSF’s involvement relates to asbestos-contaminated vermiculite in the rail yard that a 2024 federal jury said was a considerable factor in the negligent deaths of former Libby residents...

Tuesday, May 6

Troy Trojans baseball honors its seniors
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy Trojans baseball honors its seniors

Cooper Carsley, Preston Norder, Lucas Peterson, Trapper Savage, Kempton Sloan and Cody Todd were recognized along with their family members.

Leanette (Hinki) Wilson
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Leanette (Hinki) Wilson

Leanette (Hinki) Wilson

Horsin' Around
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Horsin' Around

Tami Thill of Troy took her Draft Paint horse, Big John, for a walk Saturday afternoon to...

Troy softball runs record to 13-3 with two comeback wins
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy softball runs record to 13-3 with two comeback wins

It was the second time in three days that Troy (13-3) shrugged off a five-run deficit to score a win.

Libby Logger softball unveils new field with big win
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Logger softball unveils new field with big win

The Loggers will host two more games on their new field, Tuesday against Browning. Senior Night festivities will also be held.

Chain of Lakes coalition appeals RV park ruling to state Supreme Court
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Chain of Lakes coalition appeals RV park ruling to state Supreme Court

The Board of Commissioners voted to approve a preliminary plat for the proposed RV park in September 2022.

May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Deferred sentence for Libby man accused of gun assault

According to police reports, Lincoln County Sheriff's deputies responded to a call from a woman who said that Toczek...

May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Montana joins growing list of states with codified protection against frivolous lawsuits

“A SLAPP may come in the form of defamation, invasion of privacy, nuisance or other claim, but its real goal is to entangle the defendant in expensive litigation and stifle their ability to engage in Constitutionally protected activities,” bill sponsor Rep. Tom Millett, R-Marion, said while introducing the bill before the House Judiciary committee in February.

Raymond Conrad Witt
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Raymond Conrad Witt

Raymond Conrad Witt

Tana Parsons
May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

Tana Parsons

Tana Parsons

May 6, 2025 7 a.m.

State will consider Bull River restrictions at June 19 meeting

Most petition signers were from nearby Heron, Noxon, Trout Creek, Troy and Libby, but he also had signers from Montana locales as far away as Belgrade and Billings.

May 6, 2025 midnight

Legals for May, 6 2025

Sunday, May 4

Missing Idaho man visiting Libby found safe
May 4, 2025 5 p.m.

Missing Idaho man visiting Libby found safe

A missing Idaho man visiting family in Libby was found safe, authorities said.

Friday, May 2

Thompson Falls to host May 15 meeting on wild, domestic sheep
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Thompson Falls to host May 15 meeting on wild, domestic sheep

Managing wild and domestic sheep interactions creates unique biological, social and cultural challenges...

Community effort helps bring youth baseball tourneys to Libby
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Community effort helps bring youth baseball tourneys to Libby

In preparation to host the tournaments, Libby resident Derek...

Alicemarian “Alice” Flesher
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Alicemarian “Alice” Flesher

Alicemarian “Alice” Flesher

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby Senior Center Menu for May 2025

Meals are ready from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday and Friday or 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.

Libby school trustee candidates share views at forum
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby school trustee candidates share views at forum

For voters, their ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, May 6.

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Libby's Farmer, Andersen shine at track and field meets

Libby’s Tristan Andersen made his mark in both the javelin and high jump, winning the javelin with a season-best 165-4.5 and tying for first in the high jump (5-10).

Jason Rogers Swanson
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Jason Rogers Swanson

Jason Rogers Swanson

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Troy softball drops three straight but holds strong at 10-3

Troy opened the rough patch at home on Thursday, April 24, against perennial powerhouse Florence-Carlton.

Jacqueline Ann “Jax” Gilder (Robertson)
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Jacqueline Ann “Jax” Gilder (Robertson)

Jacqueline Ann “Jax” Gilder (Robertson)

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Governor signs Bobby’s Law, imposing tougher drunk driving penalties

The legislation was introduced by Rep. Braxton Mitchell, R-Columbia Falls, to address...

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Montana Supreme Court sides with media outlets in public meetings lawsuit

Justices say an advisory council erred by closing its proceedings while reviewing candidates for a 9th Judicial District judgeship in 2023.

Frank Morgan Harlan
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Frank Morgan Harlan

Frank Morgan Harlan

Puppy abandoner gets suspended sentence
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Puppy abandoner gets suspended sentence

She pleaded not guilty Feb. 18 in...

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Prison construction starts as legislators approve more money for expansion

New housing units are being built as lawmakers send proposals for $436 million in further expansion to the governor’s desk.

Burn permits required for spring burning season in Lincoln Co.
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Burn permits required for spring burning season in Lincoln Co.

Free permits available online – residents are urged to burn responsibly

May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Legislators give tearful goodbyes, reflect on service, pass the ‘dean’ torch

The Senate was punctuated by division, heard heartfelt speeches on the last day.

Ducks Unlimited Kootenai Valley chapter hosts 39th annual dinner
May 2, 2025 7 a.m.

Ducks Unlimited Kootenai Valley chapter hosts 39th annual dinner

Several area businesses and individuals worked hard to support the event, which raises money for wetlands conservation and waterfowl.