Good morning, Billings.

ZooMontana announced the passing of grey wolf Simpson, who had been a resident since June 2020, after his hydrocephalus worsened despite two surgeries+community fundraisers helped pay for his care.

The zoo thanked supporters for their help+Onyx, Simpson’s packmate, will continue to receive dedicated care.

The Montana State Parks Foundation launched the Park Accessibility Fundraiser to improve state parks access for people with disabilities — donations up to $30,000 will be matched dollar for dollar.

The fundraiser includes a raffle with prizes for camping, trail running, and fly fishing, and will run until July 15.

A new ValuePenguin study found Montana had a reckless driving fatality rate five times higher than the national average from 2018 to 2022.

Billings Police Sgt Jeff Stovall warned that even one reckless driver can cause tragedy and urged drivers to slow down near busy roads (including Shiloh Road, King Avenue and Grand Avenue).

The Billings Police Department announced Wednesday that its investigation into missing person Jessie Lamarr Johnson—missing since February 28th, 2024—is now treated as a homicide case, and they are asking landowners from Pryor to Huntley to report any human remains found near Pryor Creek drainage.

Nova Center for the Performing Arts in downtown Billings is a volunteer-led theater that puts on a range of shows—musicals, opera, improv and more—with its current production of Once Upon a Mattress underway; the center, which began in 2013, will also offer summer camps for children starting in June. It serves as a creative hub open to everyone who wants to enjoy or participate in local theater.

After 85 working days, the Montana Legislature ended its 69th session on April 30.

The House and Senate approved a property tax package and a $16.6 billion state budget bill — leaving Governor Gianforte to sign or veto the measures soon.

The Montana Department of Transportation is asking the public for feedback on a plan to resurface 11 miles of I-90 from Lodge Grass to the Montana-Wyoming border.

The project is planned for 2028 but may begin sooner if funding progresses — it includes crack and chip sealing, pavement marking and bridge repairs at the Wyola and Aberdeen Interchanges, and it will not require new right-of-way or utility relocations.

MSUB said its men’s soccer program will not return this fall even after a community group raised $200,000 in pledges, citing financial instability and scheduling issues.

Community leader Alex Balog said he is worried that the program’s loss will make future fundraising harder—undermining trust between the school and supporters.

Halfway to Halloween Party

9 PM – 1 AM — The Pub Station — $15 — Celebrate halfway to Halloween with DJs and a lively atmosphere.

Dance Pictures Event

12-5 p.m. — Montana Dance Center — Cost not specified — Capture memorable moments with your dance friends and recital pieces.

Dirtwire Performance

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket info available — Experience a unique blend of world music and electronic beats from Dirtwire.

Breakfast with Mom

10 AM – 12 PM — Grandpa's Farm — $26.42 — Celebrate Mother's Day with a fun-filled breakfast on the farm and enjoy a tractor ride along with animal visits.

Bobby Shmurda Live Concert

8 PM - 12 AM — Club Lux — Check local listings for ticket prices — Experience the explosive energy of Bobby Shmurda as he takes the stage in Billings.

Tigirlily Gold Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets required — Catch the uplifting sister duo Tigirlily Gold as they showcase their hit singles and new music from their upcoming album.

Lodge Breakfast Gathering

8:30-10 a.m. — IHOP — Self-pay off menu — Enjoy a no-host fellowship breakfast with members of the community.

GLITTERFOX with special guest SALT AND SHADOW

8 p.m. — The Pub Station — Free entry — Experience a vibrant night of indie rock with Portland's Glitterfox and special guest Salt and Shadow.

Missoula PaddleHeads at Billings Mustangs

6:35-10:35 p.m. — Dehler Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement of a thrilling baseball match between local teams.

Missoula PaddleHeads vs. Billings Mustangs

6:35-10:35 p.m. — Dehler Park — Check website for ticket prices — Enjoy an exciting evening of minor league baseball action in Billings.