Good morning, Helena.

Good Samaritan Ministries will open a permanent facility for its Our Place recovery center in its back warehouse next week (after relocating from a temporary space by Helena Area Habitat for Humanity) thanks to a $134,600 city grant.

Archie Bray Foundation in Helena got a $13,000 grant from the Foundation for Montana History to restore its 19th-century blacksmith shop by stabilizing the structure and cataloging its tools for public access.

The grant is part of a cycle distributing over $255,000 to historic sites + organizations in Montana.

East Helena Public Schools is asking voters for a $392,000 levy to restore pre-pandemic staffing and schedules, which would add five full-time teachers + reduce class sizes.

Ballots are mailed on April 17 and voters decide on May 5 with an info night set for 6:30 p.m. on April 21.

Residents west of Montana City near Skihi Peak Drive are advised to prepare for evacuation as a wildfire burns a few acres and helicopters from the Montana Department of Natural Resources + Conservation are en route.

Authorities urge households to leave if they feel unsafe and to avoid calling 911 for non-emergencies.

The Montana Department of Commerce and Department of Transportation unveiled a new welcome sign design chosen by over 11,000 Montanans + Governor Gianforte said the sign will be installed at state entry points later this month as weather and access allow.

The USDA terminated millions in tribal agriculture funding, derailing projects and leaving local initiatives set back.

Awardees described the move as ‘devastating’ — stating it was based on a flawed view of tribal programs as diversity efforts.

Washington-based DevCo announced a proposal for a 150-unit affordable housing complex in Helena near Costco that awaits city inspection and will break ground in 2027 if approved.

Helena's Spring Art Walk

Helena's Spring Art Walk: Visit 100+ artists in-person, on display at more than 40 business hosts from 4 - 8pm. Start by picking up your map at Omerta Arts to win prizes, see two great new exhibitions, real artist studios, live music, BBQ + ice cream, then shuttle to the library and wander back (800 Front St.)

Jordan World Circus

4:00 – 5:30 PM — Lewis & Clark County Fairgrounds — Adult tickets $20 — Experience the excitement of circus acts with family-friendly offerings.

Blackfoot River Brewing Run

11:00 AM – 1:30 PM — Blackfoot River Brewing Co — Cost varies — Enjoy a 5 km fun run with local craft beer and exciting prizes post-race.

Philosophy on Broadway Fundraiser

4-10 p.m. — On Broadway — 50% of food & beverages donated — Enjoy live music, door prizes, and a silent auction for a great cause.

The Fab Four - The Ultimate Beatles Tribute

7:30-9 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — Check event page for pricing — Experience a note-for-note live performance of Beatles classics and enjoy a celebration of their second film, HELP!

2026 Triple Crown Gala

6-9 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — Fundraiser benefiting individuals with disabilities — Celebrate Kentucky Derby style while supporting a great cause.

Insufficient Funds Band Live Performance

7-11 p.m. — Lewis & Clark Tap Room — Ticket info not provided — Experience the high-energy sounds of Montana’s beloved Insufficient Funds Band.