He is a Montana Broadcasters Association 2024 Hall of Fame inductee and the man behind Lincoln Country Broadcasters Inc. But, he began his career in radio in 1967 at a 500-watt daytime AM radio station in Middlesboro, Ky., as an on-air announcer.
Now, this veteran radio industry figure has decided to sell an AM in Libby, Mont., he’s been associated with since February 1977, and has arranged a concurrent deal to say farewell to that station’s FM sibling.
In concurrent filings submitted with the FCC for its approval, the Duane Williams-led licensee is selling KLCB-AM to Northwest Capital Corp. for $10,000.
No real property is being conveyed in the agreement, with the price simply reflecting the license value.
At the same time, KTNY-FM in Libby is being sold to Hi-Line Radio Fellowship Inc. for $30,000.
The sale of the stations is not a surprise, as KLCB and KTNY have been silent under Special Temporary Authority since the start of 2025.
Without those local voices, radio listeners in Libby have been left with a 3ABN LPFM station offering religious programming; a Montana Public Radio Member station; and a Worship 24/7 affiliated FM translator set to become a Hope Media Group property. Every other audible AM or FM station is at least 55 miles away.
Williams had been associated with KLCB since becoming its General Manager in early 1977. Under his leadership, KTNY would sign on the air in April 1986.
The Montana Broadcasters Association saluted Williams by commenting, “Through Libby’s tumultuous economic challenges since the late 80s, Duane became increasing involved in all aspects of the business. His intense selfless service to his community, keen business acumen, mechanical ability, and the strong desire to live his dream, allowed him to successfully transition into all aspects of the business to include station ownership, management, sales, journalist/new reporter, and engineering. Duane become one of the first stations in the region to successfully blend national syndication and local programming. Through this strategy, Duane reduced overall operating costs while retaining the local programming.”
Until the stations’ closure, Williams would even take to the microphone every weekday morning to greet listeners with the latest news and information.
