The Helena Independent Record has named Greg Lemon as its new editor.
Lemon, who previously served as the paper’s community outreach editor, will move into the editor job July 12.
“We are extremely fortunate to have someone of Greg’s caliber at the Independent Record. He is an extraordinary journalist with Montana roots and a passion for the community,” said Nathan Bekke, group publisher for Lee Enterprises and publisher of Casper Star-Tribune Communications.
Prior to joining the IR, Lemon was the publisher and editor of The Madisonian newspaper in Ennis. He is originally from La Grande, Ore., and has a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Montana in Missoula.
Lemon replaces Holly Michels, who is leaving the paper for a position at The Billings Gazette.
“Holly has done outstanding work during her time at the Independent Record,” Bekke said. “She has a bright future and will be a great addition to the Billings Gazette.”
As editor, Lemon will be responsible for steering the editorial direction of the Independent Record, mapping out daily and long-range coverage for the newspaper, with an emphasis on local content for social media, such as Facebook, Twitter, helena
ir.com, mobile and the newspaper’s e-edition.
“I’m excited to do my part to continue the long tradition of excellent news coverage and community engagement, which is and will continue to be a priority for the IR,” Lemon said. “We will continue to be the news leader on all our platforms, be it online, mobile or print.”
Lemon and his wife, Renee, have two young children. Lemon is an avid outdoorsman and enjoys fly fishing and hunting, but has a struggling golf game.
“My family and I love Helena,” he said. “We’re excited to call this our home and raise our family here.”
