Good morning, Billings.

Billings community held a vigil last night to honor Rikisha Bear, a 21 year old who has been missing since February 2024.

Friends, family and local advocates shared hope she will be found as authorities struggle to coordinate the search across state jurisdictions — a recent tip of her sighting in Billings adds urgency.

A Billings woman riding her Harley-Davidson was killed Sunday shortly after 2 p.m. on Highway 212 near Roberts after a Toyota 4Runner struck a deer and veered into the oncoming lane— the 68-year-old driver was taken to Billings Clinic with only minor injuries.

Kevin Brown opened a new store in Bozeman at 200 S.

23rd Ave to sell vintage clothes— the basement—after building loyal support at his Billings store at 805 24th St. W. He said the move meets growing local interest in retro fashion and he will host a special anniversary event in August.

Montana Native Growth Fund hosted the fourth annual Big Sky Indigifest at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center on July 17, celebrating Native-owned businesses with training sessions, funding help, and networking opportunities.

The event featured a panel of Indian Equity Grant awardees, a fashion show, and live performances—efforts designed to empower Indigenous entrepreneurs.

The Billings Police Department investigated reports of a black bear roaming the Southside on Monday morning near King Avenue East and Jackson Street—residents were urged to call dispatch with additional sightings and avoid approaching the animal.

Thousands gathered in South Park to celebrate the 71st annual Billings Mexican Fiesta, which featured live music — dancing and food that honored Mexican culture.

Organizers, including the Contreraz brothers, reported a record turnout with over 6,000 attendees, 90 vendors, and 275 cars on display — marking a milestone in the event’s long tradition.

RiverStone Health started a program called LOSS (Local Outreach to Suicide Survivors) to help people who lost loved ones to suicide by offering free counseling, support, and referrals; the group works with the Yellowstone County Coroner's Office to call families 10 to 14 days after a death and needs volunteers with personal experience. The program, meant to ease the pain from Montana's high suicide rates, will start by the end of summer.

On Sunday, Pastor Jeff Romans said a Yellowstone County child tested positive for measles after attending a camp at Cornerstone Community Church; he noted that 110 children and 60 volunteers were present and the church took quick steps to slow the spread.

RiverStone Health advised that unvaccinated contacts quarantine for 21 days & officials began reaching out to those exposed four days before the rash appeared.

Libby's Ryggs Johnston became the first Montanan to play in The Open Championship at Royal Portrush when he made the cut and finished at 4-over par with a final round 74 — he shot a 66 in the second round to secure his place in the tournament.

He said he will return to Libby to practice before his next DP Tour event Aug. 7-10 in Aberdeenshire.

Tanner Usrey Live Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets available — Experience Tanner Usrey's captivating blend of country, rock, and Americana storytelling.

Prairie Original Musical Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — NOVA Center For The Performing Arts — Tickets available — Witness the world premiere of a new, original story musical by local theatre-makers.

Prairie Musical Performance

7:30-9:30 p.m. — NOVA Center For The Performing Arts — Ticketed event — Experience a new, original musical by local theatre-makers in a community premiere.

Prairie Matinee Performance

2-4 p.m. — NOVA Center For The Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Experience a new, original-story musical presented by local theatre-makers.

Hinder: Back To Life Tour 2025

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets required — Rock out to Hinder along with special guests Austin Meade and Kelsey Hickman.

Great Falls Voyagers vs. Billings Mustangs

6:35-8:05 p.m. — Dehler Park — Ticket prices vary — Catch the excitement as the Voyagers take on the Mustangs in an evening of Minor League Baseball action.

INTERFACE Montana 2025

Conference — Full day — Northern Hotel — Free entry — Explore innovations in IT infrastructure while networking with industry leaders and experts.

Black Stone Cherry Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket info varies — Experience the triumphant return of Black Stone Cherry with their latest album and powerful rock performance.

Great Falls Voyagers vs. Billings Mustangs

6:35-8:05 p.m. — Dehler Park — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy a thrilling baseball matchup between the Voyagers and the Mustangs.

Scotty McCreery Live Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — Tickets from $57 — Experience the rich baritone of country music sensation Scotty McCreery as he performs hits from his latest album.