Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 21st of March.
Good morning, Billings.
🚧 Accidents
Two fatal teen vehicle crashes in Yellowstone County spurred discussions on driver safety education after a 17-year-old died in a rollover on I-90 — a 16-year-old died near Laurel.
Residents further voiced concerns as Anderson’s Towing faced additional complaints over high fees and calls rose for tighter oversight of Montana ski resorts following a fatal fall on the Triple Chair lift at Red Lodge Mountain on March 10.
🏛️ Government
Governor Greg Gianforte and State Senator Josh Kassmier are working with local agricultural producers to reform the business equipment tax and ease the burden on 700 small businesses—family farms and ranches that risk reaching a million dollars in equipment costs.
Brent Hanford of Circle View Farms said the reform could help reduce financial pressures on small operations and support local agriculture.
The Montana House will hold a third reading and vote on HB190 today to name rodeo the official state sport+ the bill, sponsored by Greg Overstreet, got strong support in earlier votes.
The measure shows Montana's rich rodeo culture+ the vote may make the sport a lasting part of the state's traditions.
Billings nonprofits are preparing for new Social Security rules that will require seniors to verify their identity in person or online starting on March 31 (a measure to curb fraud).
Volunteers worry that many seniors with transportation challenges may struggle to reach regional offices (increasing pressure on programs like RIDES).
This week, PRPL is pruning 50 honeylocust trees downtown to improve safety and enhance the area for upcoming events.
Nick Miller said workers will use a bucket truck to shape the trees and crews will collect branches to chip, with the work expected to finish today near 2nd Avenue.
🏥 Health
Montana has recorded 141 whooping cough cases since December—including 23 in Missoula County—and cases peaked in January as winter gatherings likely helped spread the illness.
Health officials advise those with symptoms to seek care and isolate for 21 days—to curb further transmission.
Bob Hogemark, a Park City colon cancer survivor, is one year in recovery after early detection led to robotic surgery that removed part of his large intestine.
He now encourages everyone over 45 to get screened for colorectal cancer.
🏈 Sports
Today, the NCAA men's basketball tournament began as the Montana Grizzlies — conference champions from Idaho — started their run against the Wisconsin Badgers in Denver while the Gonzaga Bulldogs will tip off their tournament run in Wichita.
The Bobcat women secured the 13 seed in Region 3 and will face Ohio State in Columbus today after winning their conference tournament.
🎉 Billings Events
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LoCash Concert at The Pub Station
Country music duo LoCash, known for their hit singles and upcoming projects, will perform live at The Pub Station Ballroom.
ServSafe Manager Certification Training
9 AM – 5:30 PM — Residence Inn Billings — $215+ — Gain essential food safety skills in a one-day certification course with a 95% pass rate.
Real Estate Investing & Entrepreneurship
6-8 p.m. — Billings Depot — Free entry — Explore strategies for financial independence through real estate investment and entrepreneurship.
Casey Donahew Concert
8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — $25 to $50 — Enjoy a night of live music with Casey Donahew in the vibrant Pub Station Ballroom.
Ugly In The Morning Concert
8 p.m. — The Pub Station — $10 — Experience tribute bands Ugly In The Morning and OGT 92 take the stage for a night of rock classics.
Zechariah Peabody Album Release: WILSALL
7 p.m. — The Pub Station — $15 — Experience the soulful sounds of Zechariah Peabody as he releases his new album, capturing the essence of Montana life.
Billings RV & Boat Show and Sale
10 AM – 8 PM — MetraPark - First Interstate Arena — Exclusive savings on RVs and boats — A must-visit for enthusiasts looking for the best deals in Montana.
Grants for Schools Conference
9 a.m. - 3 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings — $350 per person or group discounts available — Discover valuable insights into grant writing and funding opportunities for schools.
Club 90s - Charli XCX Night
9:00-10:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Check for ticket prices — Celebrate the pop sounds of Charli XCX in a vibrant 90s-themed night.
Yellowstone Cellars and Winery Event
7:30-10 p.m. — Yellowstone Cellars & Winery — Cost info not provided — Enjoy a delightful evening at one of Billings' top-rated wineries.
🏠 Billings Real Estate
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📣 Billings Announcements
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