Good morning, Helena.

On Tuesday, Helena rededicated its historic fire tower nearly ten years after an arson with a ribbon cutting that marked the completion of its restoration.

Reconstruction began in December and finished in May using new local lumber to match the original design—city officials and community members joined the ceremony.

A wildfire began near Exit 209 on I-15 at 2:10 p.m. on June 9th and sent a big smoke plume over downtown, but managers said Gates of the Mountains Boat Tours still run.

The marina is helping fire crews and telling boaters to stay away from the Campbell’s Bay area—helicopters are taking water to fight the blaze.

On Monday, attorney Shiloh Hernandez questioned NorthWestern Energy CEO Brian Bird at a Public Service Commission hearing about the utility’s plan to invest in coal and gas-fired power while facing rising wildfire risks—he also asked how the company will meet its net-zero goal and share future costs with ratepayers. The rate case continues as NorthWestern seeks permission to raise rates and plans additional steps including selling excess capacity to data centers.

April Deanna West, a Helena woman accused of embezzlement and felony drug possession, was charged Monday with four new counts (including theft), which brought her total to three active cases.

Helena Public Schools closed Hawthorne Elementary Tuesday night after over 100 years of service when the board voted 6—1 to cut costs amid a deepening budget crisis.

Community members voiced distrust in the decision as the district plans further budget adjustments.

The Helena Public Schools board voted Tuesday night to put two bond issues before voters this fall—one for a new Kessler Elementary and one for rebuilding Helena High and renovating Capital High.

The district said the new bonds are expected to raise taxes by about $40 on a $300,000 home for the elementary project and $220 for high school improvements—voters will decide on Sept. 9.

Helena and Lewis and Clark County are revising their Growth Policies to guide future development and protect 35 historic places through 2025—official plans will set clear rules for growth and preservation.

The updates will help residents and businesses understand new requirements as the community evolves.

Montanans are asked to watch for harmful algal blooms as warm weather raises the risk of toxins in water.

Health officials warn that water resembling spilled paint or pea soup—blue, green or red—can harm children, pets and livestock if contacted.

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.)

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.

8th Annual Perinatal Mental Health Conference

8 AM – 4 PM — Delta Hotels Helena Colonial — $199 — Explore the critical topic of perinatal mental health with experts and community leaders.

Ronnie and The Redwoods Concert

5:30-11:30 p.m. — Womens Park — Ticket info available — Experience an engaging Americana performance under the stars with Ronnie and The Redwoods.

Watermelon Men at The Rathskeller

12-2 a.m. — Rathskeller — Check for pricing — Enjoy local music and great beverages as the new food menu debuts.

July 4th Celebration at Centennial Park

10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Centennial Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with free hot dogs, root beer floats, live music, and family activities.