Good morning, Billings.

Montana Lt. Gov. Kristen Juras issued an order letting logging and agriculture companies use tax-exempt red dye diesel in commercial vehicles until Nov.

23 to ease high fuel costs. The exemption could save producers about $50 to $70 per day, though some may stick with clear diesel for storage.

Billings Early College School students are now juniors taking courses on the MSUB campus to earn up to 60 college credits before finishing high school.

Counselor Kristin Kochner said the program eases tuition worries while helping students build skills for future success.

Yesterday evening, the Boys and Girls Clubs unveiled a new learning center at the Bair Family Clubhouse built with a $45,000 grant from Panda Cares to offer homework help, science experiments, and reading space.

Club officials say the center will support students preparing for college and trade school.

On Sept. 12, 165 local volunteers used 30 boats to remove 17,100 lb of trash from the Yellowstone River — setting a new record for cleanup efforts.

Girls flag football is gaining momentum in Montana as 39 high schools now offer the sport, up from 28 last year, and Billings schools (Senior, West and Skyview) are building their programs this season.

They run on three year grants with hopes the district will support future costs.