Good morning, Helena.

Last year, Montana Adult Protective Services received 14,000 elder abuse allegations—3,000 of which involved financial exploitation—and officials said issues like cognitive decline, loneliness, and misuse of electronics contributed to the crimes, with a dedicated prevention month raising awareness.

Helena is hosting events today for Juneteenth to honor the day federal troops arrived in Galveston in 1865 to enforce the Emancipation Proclamation.

Organizers say the celebration will include community activities that highlight the historical significance of the day.

Helena job seekers can browse the latest employment postings online—local employers have updated their listings to offer a range of career opportunities.

A lightning-caused fire near Macdonald Pass has burned around 150 acres and remains uncontained while firefighters work to build fire lines on steep terrain—residents are urged to avoid the Continental Divide Trail.

The Jericho Mountain Fire grew to about 188 acres by Wednesday morning and moved into the Minnehaha Creek drainage area.

Firefighters—141 personnel—worked to hold the line west of Minnehaha Road amid heavy dead trees and forecasted winds.

Helena revealed design plans for a third fire station after voters approved a public safety bond last June.

Dowling Architects is designing the station at the corner of Custer Avenue and Kelleher Drive near Costco—this facility will include a live fire training center to keep response times fast, and the city plans to break ground this fall or early winter with completion expected 18 months later.

The county and a local family are working to find a remedy for a property in North Helena Valley that residents call an unsightly blight, and they have not yet settled on a plan + discussions continue on next steps.

Five players from Helena Capital are set to play on the West team in the Montana East-West Shrine Game—Coach Kyle Mihelish said the team is strong after winning the state championship and keeping an unbeaten streak since Aug.

30. The group, including quarterback Merek Mihelish and four teammates headed to Montana Tech, practiced in Butte on June 16 as they prepare for Saturday’s game.

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.)

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.

Helena's Alive at Five

5-9 p.m. — Lewis & Clark Tap Room — Free entry — Experience a lively night of Celtic and rock fusion with The Young Dubliners.

Montana Fair Housing Maintenance Workshop

11 a.m.–2 p.m. — Helena College University of Montana — Cost to cover instructor and room rental — Enhance your maintenance skills while ensuring fair housing compliance in a fun, interactive workshop.

Symphony Under the Stars

8:30 p.m. — Carroll College — Donations accepted — Enjoy a magical evening of music and fireworks in a Helena tradition.