Good morning, Helena.

Montana Highway Patrol Captain Shawn Silvan said that by the midpoint of the 100 deadliest days this summer there have been 36 fatal crashes resulting in 37 fatalities—with nine incidents each linked to alcohol and other impaired driving.

He explained that speeding, impaired driving and not wearing seatbelts contributed to the crashes and noted that seatbelt use cuts the risk of death by 45% and serious injury by 50%.

The Montana Historical Society received a $50,000 grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana to start a free field trip program that will let Montana students visit the Montana Heritage Center and the State Capitol.

The program will launch in early 2026 and cover transportation and lodging (with applications accepted until October 13) (and a second round open until January 4).

Montana’s Legislative Audit Division asked for access to the state's court database for a routine performance audit, and county clerks worry that the move could expose private records.

Beaverhead County Attorney Sky Jones warned that the request might risk the privacy of many citizens + state officials maintained that the review was legal and properly controlled.

A federal judge ruled on July 23rd that former Helena oncologist Dr. Thomas Weiner’s motion to dismiss the civil case—filed by the U.S. attorney’s office on August 26th, 2024—will not be granted as the court found the claims on false billing and unwarranted treatments substantiated enough to move forward with all five counts. Weiner has not responded to the ruling as the case continues in federal court.

Dana Toole, a former Helena School Board chair — who served three terms — announced today her candidacy for the open Montana State Senate District 41 seat.

She, a local mother and advocate for children’s issues, said she is running to fight rising costs and protect community quality.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Montana awarded a $20,000 Blue Impact Grant to Cancer Support Community Montana+ the nonprofit uses the funds to offer financial aid and education programs for people with cancer and their loved ones.

Real estate agent Heather Lay said Montanans are changing remodel plans by choosing shower inserts instead of custom tile showers—saving money as material costs rise.

Local contractors including Mike Murphy and Willie O'Brien noted that homeowners now phase renovations rather than sell due to fluctuating prices and possible tariffs—keeping remodel work in high demand.

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.)

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]

The Augúst - 57th Annual Montana Footrace

7 PM — Spring Meadow Resources Pavilion — $10 entry fee for youth — Experience the thrill of Montana's second oldest footrace with a flat and fast 5k trail run.

Beyond the Big Sky Stargazing Event

9 p.m. – 12 a.m. — Montana Learning Center — $25 adults, $15 youth — Explore the cosmos with expert astronomers and amazing telescopes in one of America's darkest skies.

Queen City Ballet Company presents: The Bang Group (NYC); A Night of Classical and Contemporary Dance

This special, not-to-be-missed performance at the Myrna Loy includes a collaborative work featuring dancers from both Queen City Ballet Company and The Bang Group, who come to Helena from New York City and include Helena native and Queen City alum Louise Benkelman.

Rock the Block Art Fair

5-10 p.m. — Holter Museum of Art — Free entry — Celebrate the end of summer with art booths and community fun in Helena.