Friday, June 13th, 2025
Good morning, Helena. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 13th of June.
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ The Montana Historical Society is working with Masaru Aoki from Japan who will restore Miss Ishikawa — one of only 58 friendship dolls gifted in 1927. The restored doll will be exhibited alongside others in Norfolk, Virginia when the collection turns 100 years old in 2027. KXLH
- ➤ Japanese expert Masaru Aoki is at the Montana Historical Society in Helena to restore Miss Ishikawa (one of 58 rare friendship dolls) using century-old techniques. The doll, gifted in 1927, is one of only 46 that remain intact. KTVH
- ➤ A final fundraising campaign for the Montana Heritage Center is underway—donations of any amount are accepted until July 30 to help complete a $1M project. Independent Record
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ The Helena Public Schools Board of Trustees voted Tuesday to close Hawthorne Elementary School and held a farewell celebration Wednesday for the nearly 150-year-old institution. Superintendent Rex Weltz said the district will complete summer reassignments and work with a realtor to lease the building—an effort that aims to reduce nearly $1,000,000 in budget shortfalls. KTVH
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ On Tuesday, DNRC reported that the Hilger Valley Fire burned about 288 acres while over 110 personnel from state, federal and local agencies fought the blaze using 10 engines, four helicopters and hand crews—officials said the fire was human-caused. The fire remained 0% contained by 10:00 a.m., and officials warned boaters near the Gates of the Mountains Marina to stay clear of the area—more air and ground support was later added. KTVH
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ Montana Department of Transportation announced that road work on 11 miles of I-15 in Helena will begin June 16 and finish within a single season; crews will seal and cover pavement while drivers should slow down as lanes are temporarily closed. KTVH
- ➤ City officials said five candidates filed to run for mayor after incumbent Mayor Collins chose not to seek a third term — current commissioners Emily Dean and Andy Shirtliff, former candidate Sonda Gaub, and newcomers Chris Riccardo and Braxton Hudson filed with county election officials. A primary election will be held on Sept. 9 — the top two candidates will advance to the general election on Nov. 4. KTVH
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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.)
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
No new real estate listings today. You can submit one here.
No new job posts today. You can submit one here.
No new community announcements today. You can submit one here.
TODAY'S FOOD FOR THOUGHT
The goal is to be a vessel, to get yourself out of the way.
~ Rick Rubin
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