Here's your local news at a glance for Saturday, the 19th of July.
Good morning, Helena.
Helena hosts Montana’s largest disabled veterans golf tournament today with 72 three-person teams playing at Bill Roberts and Green Meadow—featuring fun side games and support from over 150 local businesses.
Tournament organizers aim to raise $250,000 this weekend—boosting DAV services with a 10-year total expected to exceed $1 million in funds.
A 34-year-old Helena man was charged in Lewis and Clark County Justice Court on Friday after allegedly firing a shotgun at a complainant's vehicle — documents report he also pointed the weapon at the complainant's wife, leading to felony charges.
Today, thousands will gather on the hill at Carroll College for the Intrepid Credit Union Symphony Under the Stars as early attendees secure their spots with a $5 donation per blanket to the local Scouts.
The Helena Symphony will perform music under Maestro Allan R. Scott — the concert celebrates its 21st year with iconic songs from the past half century.
Thousands of people lined up early on Friday at Carroll College to claim a spot for the Intrepid Credit Union Symphony Under the Stars by donating $5 per blanket to the local Scouts and dropping off canned foods for Helena Food Share—blankets were set out at 3:00 p.m. Local organizers say the free concert, celebrating its 21st year and featuring music honoring iconic voices by the Helena Symphony under Maestro Allan R. Scott, will begin at 8:30 p.m. today.
Teachers reported that the new MAST assessment took 10 days during the year instead of four at the end, leaving less time for lessons — many also faced challenges accessing the scores and received little training.
The Office of Public Instruction and board members plan to address these issues to improve how testing data supports learning.
Two Helena parents filed a suit against Helena Public Schools in Lewis and Clark County District Court, saying the board broke open meeting rules when it closed Hawthorne Elementary School last month—claiming the decision was made early to save nearly $1 million a year.
The lawsuit asks the judge to order more records and to oversee future public meetings for the district.
Residents in North Star subdivision faced water service problems after two well pumps went offline on June 30 – resulting in restrictions and inconsistent supply.
Montana utility regulators said they are investigating the issue and will consider potential fines against the developer by the end of the month.
Lewis and Clark County commissioners will consider approving the preliminary $130M budget for FY26 at 9 a.m. Tuesday in Room 330 — the commission chambers.
Residents in North Star have reported water service issues after outages on July 1 and wiring problems noted since June 30, and utility regulators have been reviewing these complaints since 2020.
PSC Chair Brad Molnar said the commission will calculate potential fines against the developer and discuss penalties at a work session by the end of this month—contractors are expected to repair the wiring soon.
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.)
Montana Women's Triathlon
8:00 AM – 12:01 PM — Last Chance Splash Waterpark & Pool — Registration required — Compete in a diverse range of triathlon events promoting women's fitness and teamwork.
Practical Presence: Letting Yoga Find You
8 a.m. — Feathered Pipe Ranch — $2995 — Experience deep yoga practices that cultivate a state of being in a supportive community atmosphere.
Pure Prairie League Concert
7-10 p.m. — Lewis & Clark Taproom — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy classic rock sounds from the legendary Pure Prairie League in a cozy taproom atmosphere.
Back to School Bash
11 AM – 3 PM — JFK Park, Helena — Free entry — Get ready for the school year with free backpacks and community resources.
Independent Block Party
5-9 p.m. — Mt Ascension Brewing — Free entry — Enjoy live music and family-friendly fun at a neighborhood block party.
Intermountain Film Premiere
Myrna Loy, 5pm: Premiere viewing of a brief documentary about Intermountain and children's mental health, followed by panel discussion and call to action. Adults only, for free tickets, email [email protected]
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