Good morning, Billings.

Lee Enterprises chairman David Hoffmann is investing millions to support local newspapers - a critical resource that keeps community news alive.

The move was announced to help preserve local reporting for future generations.

Lee Enterprises Chairman David Hoffmann chose family over a football scholarship when a young romance and a tough decision set him on the path to business success.

His choice influenced the empire he built.

The Red Lodge Carnegie Library hosts the Montana Tapestry Project, a traveling exhibit featuring banners that reveal Montana’s 250-year history and honor eight influential locals.

The display will run until July 10.

Photowalks' Jefferson Graham advises capturing the July 4th fireworks on your smartphone by recording in 4K and snapping stills from the video for clearer images + reduced frustration.

His tips help locals document the display as it unfolds without missing a burst.

A malfunction at Lockwood air monitor led to false hazardous readings on July 3, and technicians from the Montana Department of Environmental Quality replaced a filter without fixing the issue.

They will swap in more equipment on July 7 - a lower-grade sensor still gives current data.

Yellowstone Valley Animal Shelter’s 18-year contract with the city ended after a dispute over a requested 53% pay increase, leaving the city to handle only dangerous strays while officials plan to send out a new request-for-proposals next week.

Laurel C.A.R.E.D sued the state to pause work on a planned forensic mental health facility over concerns that the environmental review omitted water and sewer capacity details.

County commissioners will hold an informational hearing Thursday, Jul. 9 at 5:30 p.m. at Laurel High School auditorium — an important next step.

A federal jury on Thursday ruled that Canyon Creek Memory Care is liable for two Covid-era resident deaths and cleared it of dishonesty regarding a third case (attorney John Heenan seeks punitive damages) as families await final award terms.

In Billings Heights, construction on the LB Lofts affordable housing project is set to begin in August as pods from the Bakken oil fields were moved to storage to clear the land for leveling and infrastructure work.

Project leaders say the change paves the way for building 102 new units.

Billings Fourth of July Fireworks

10:30 PM — Castle Rock Park — Free entry — Celebrate Independence Day with spectacular fireworks lighting up the Billings sky.

Igor and The Red Elvises Live

8-11 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets available — Experience the lively performance of Igor and The Red Elvises in Billings.

2026 American Powerlifting Organization Nationals

July 10-12 — Billings Hotel and Convention Center — Registration Required — Experience high-energy powerlifting competition at its finest with top athletes.

Montana Merge Of The Cities 3

2-7 p.m. — MetraPark - First Interstate Arena — Check event page for cost — Experience the All City Montana Showcase and enjoy the community's automotive passion.

Alex Lambert Live in Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket prices vary — Experience the soulful sounds of Texas-born singer-songwriter Alex Lambert supporting Paul Cauthen.

Glacier Range Riders vs. Billings Mustangs

5:59-9:59 p.m. — Dehler Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an exciting baseball game featuring local teams in a great atmosphere.

The Dinner Detective Murder Mystery Dinner Show

6-9 p.m. — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings — Tickets required — Enjoy an interactive true crime experience while dining with friends.

Hellroaring Summer Concert

6-8 p.m. — St. John’s United — Free entry — Enjoy a free live performance from the energetic Hellroaring country band at this family-friendly summer concert.

Sara Evans Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket prices vary — Experience the strength and versatility of country music star Sara Evans.

Tour de Taco

A 21 mile leisure ride on the paved trails of Billings broken up by taco truck stops where participants will enjoy the fine refreshments. Analog and E-bike rentals available!