Good morning, Helena.

After Wednesday's windstorm knocked down many trees, local crews including Tree Professional are removing fallen trees from homes and yards in Helena — working to secure properties and assist neighbors with cleanup.

Toys for Tots is hosting a weekend distribution event with over 30,000 donated toys for 810 families today, including 27-percent first-time families, as volunteers use a new app to track real-time inventory and help parents pick desired items across town.

St. Andrew School students got a holiday boost yesterday when Santa teamed with Safeway, Albertsons + volunteer firefighters to deliver stuffed stockings before Christmas break.

The act brought cheer to a school often overlooked, and staff and students expressed delight over the thoughtful donation.

Futura Lane salon (known for its community generosity) is closing after nearly 50 years in service, leaving behind a legacy that has benefited Helena locals.

Helena Public Schools board approved Dick Anderson Construction to lead the new high school project using $240 million in bonds and a $43 million elementary bond.

The district locked in interest rates 0.5 percent lower than expected, lowering taxpayers' costs by about $23.70 per $100,000 in taxable property (local savings on typical homes were noted).

Montana's Office of Public Instruction received nearly $10M to boost early literacy in rural, tribal, and high-needs schools.

The grant will fund tutoring sessions (30 minutes, three times a week) and teacher training, with more details available in the new year.

Lewis and Clark County Emergency Management launched an online survey (for collecting wind damage reports) to help improve planning for future extreme weather events.

The survey is for data collection only and is not a means to request assistance.

Seven Capital High School varsity players recalled how playing Y-Ball at the Helena YMCA helped build skills and friendships; the facility now asks local support to remain open.

Helena Christian girls basketball team is defending its state title with a 9-0 record after a 59-33 win over Lincoln and will play in a tournament today in East Helena (hosted by St. Andrew's).

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.)

The Nutcracker Ballet

2:00-3:30 p.m. — Helena Civic Center — Tickets may be required — Experience the magic of the classic holiday ballet featuring enchanting music and beautiful choreography.

Live Music @ Safeway with Dan Henry

11 AM - 3 PM — Safeway — Free entry — Enjoy live Christmas music while picking up last-minute holiday items.

Grandstreet Theatre’s 50th Anniversary Celebration

5 PM - 10 PM — Grandstreet Theatre — $27 - $250 — Celebrate five decades of unforgettable performances with special guests and memories at this landmark concert.