Good morning, Helena.

People are mining sapphires in the Missouri River near Helena this summer, but only stones that are clean, large, and well-shaped can be made into jewelry—jewelers from Big Sky Brilliance and Spokane Bar and Eldorado Sapphire Mines stress getting each stone checked before cutting.

Local experts advise turning to US professionals so that the sapphire’s qualities match the final design, avoiding expensive custom work.

A Helena man, Skylar Dexter Ittner, accused of punching Sheriff Leo Dutton in the face at the Lewis and Clark County Fairgrounds ended his trial in a hung jury on May 20—prosecutors said they will refile charges or reach a plea agreement.

A large seizure of carfentanil in Billings earlier this month yielded 4,900 blue M-30 pills—tested by the State Crime Lab as carfentanil—and Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen said the shipment likely came from Mexican cartels and is much more dangerous than fentanyl.

John Harvey Yoder, a Helena man, was charged with a felony after he allegedly bit and punched officers who tried to arrest him following a burglary report on May 20 — his case will move forward in court.

Montana recorded 13.7 million nonresident visitors in 2024—this record total came as spending by these tourists declined.

MDT has taken comment on a plan to widen York Road and replace the bridge over Prickly Pear Creek near the intersection with Meagher Road— the project extends northeast to Birkland Drive.

Drivers in downtown Helena face road closures as crews repair State Street's aging pavement and improve drainage—South Rodney Street was closed on Wednesday from East Broadway to State Street and today the closure extends from State to Division—and work on South Davis Street has been rescheduled for May 28 and 29, so drivers should allow extra travel time.

Broadwater County Sheriff-Coroner Nick Rauser announced cuts to services effective immediately after voters rejected a public safety levy—this loss of $1.2 million a year will lead to eliminating positions like the Townsend area school resource officer and a dedicated deputy for the county’s south end.

Salt Lake City-based developers said Artisan Grove Apartments—a 288-unit project offering one, two and three bedroom options—will be available for rent in Helena in 2026 if the project next to WinCo on North Sanders Street receives city approval.

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.)

Live Standup Comedy Night

8-9 p.m. — The Rathskeller — Free entry — Enjoy a lively evening of side-splitting humor at Helena's cozy favorite spot.

Junie B. Jones Jr.

7:30-9 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Check local listings — Relive the adventures of Junie B. Jones in this delightful musical adaptation.

Adam Mamawala Stand-Up Comedy Show

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Reeder's Alley — Ticketed event — Enjoy a night of comedy with Adam Mamawala, featuring Will Abeles.

Junie B. Jones Jr. Musical

2:30-7:00 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Ticket prices vary — Experience the delightful musical adaptation of Barbara Park's beloved character Junie B. Jones.

Senior Living Awards On-Site Tour

9 a.m. - 7 p.m. — 2475 Winne Ave, Helena, MT — Free entry — Explore award-winning senior living communities and experience their exceptional dining and activities firsthand.

Junie B. Jones Jr.

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the charming musical adaptation of Barbara Park's beloved children's book character Junie B. Jones.

Annual Stakeholder Event

YTCC's Annual Stakeholder Summit will highlight alternative transportation accomplishments in the Greater Yellowstone Region, with a focus on Montana. With decarbonizing the transportation industry as the driving theme, YTCC will share ways individuals, communities and states can become more efficient while lowering GHG emissions.

Junie B. Jones Jr. Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — Grandstreet Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the delightful musical adaptation of the beloved children's book series by Barbara Park.

Governor's Cup

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Last Chance Gulch — Registration fees support local charity — Celebrate fitness and community spirit at Helena's annual road races.

ServSafe Manager Certification Course

9 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. — Residence Inn Helena — $215 early bird; $240 general admission — Complete your ServSafe Manager certification with engaging training and expert support.