Good morning, Helena.

Helena has seen construction begin on the Bell Hotel, a two-story, 14-room, locally owned building between Lyndale Ave. and Memorial Dr. as part of a nearly $4 million project four years in the making; co-founders AshLy Tubbs and Karli Mosey plan to hire six workers and showcase local art and foods with the hotel set to open in Spring 2026 — revitalizing a historic site once home to the Treasure State Court and later the Bell Motel.

Helena resident Tom Blankenship said he nearly lost $5,000 after a scammer on a two-hour call claimed he would arrest him for missing jury duty—Opportunity Bank caught the fraud by checking customer patterns with special software.

The Old Salt Festival will take place from June 20th to 22nd at Mannix Family Ranch and will feature top music acts and cooks while celebrating wood-fired cooking, Americana tunes and local ranchers.

Organizers say the event will highlight Western makers and traditions throughout the three days.

At the district's March meeting, Superintendent Rex Weltz proposed closing Hawthorne Elementary School due to declining enrollment and budget while community members packed a trustee hearing Wednesday evening to share their concerns—options include closing at the end of this academic year, at the end of the 2025-2026 school year, or keeping the school open. The board will decide at the June meeting.

Helena city commissioners approved $35K to study the financial feasibility of a renovated Ming Opera House in a 3-2 vote today.

The study will guide officials on whether to move forward with changes to the historic venue.

Lucky Stiff in Helena

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a night of laughter with a unique performance supporting local causes.

SFST/Intoxilyzer Training Course

8 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Montana Law Enforcement Academy — $400 — Gain practical skills in DUI processing with expert instructors from the MT Crime Lab and Montana Highway Patrol.

Lucky Stiff

7:30-9 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Ticket purchase supports a cause — Enjoy a night of entertainment while giving back to the community.

Lucky Stiff Performance

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Tickets vary — Enjoy a unique theatrical experience that supports charitable causes.

Montana Warrior Run

8:15 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. — Spring Meadow Lake State Park — Registration fee required — Celebrate community spirit while participating in this annual run to promote awareness and wellness.

2025 Fundraising Summit

9:30 AM – 5:00 PM — Delta Hotels Helena Colonial — $95 – $305 — A day exploring trends and strategies for building a strong fundraising foundation.

Triple Crown Gala

6-11 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — $150 — Experience an evening of elegance and empowerment at this Kentucky Derby-themed charity event supporting adults with disabilities.

HYP Mingle at Ten Mile Creek Brewery

6-8 p.m. — Ten Mile Creek Brewery — Free microbrews for members — Unwind with friends while enjoying local brews at a great venue.

Unravel The Scratchgravels XC

11 AM – 3 PM — Echo lane trailhead — Supports local cycling initiatives — Experience premier cross-country racing on Helena's stunning single-track trails.

Winter Dance Party Concert in Helena

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — Ticket prices unknown — Experience the ultimate tribute to Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and the Big Bopper's final tour.