Good morning, Billings.

Rabbi Jeanne Snodgrass took over as executive director of the Montana Jewish Project this week in Helena.

With over 15 years’ experience at Hillel in Columbia, she said she will build on the project’s firm foundation and expand programming statewide with Yom Kippur gatherings planned for fall.

Fire Chief Matt Hoppel retired Thursday after 22 years with Billings Fire Department (he noted he will miss his colleagues) and a celebration at the fire station honored his service; Assistant Chief Kevin Bentz took over as interim chief starting Friday.

Billings fire officials explained that crews used a full 30,000-gallon underground water tank via a dry hydrant to fight a fire on White Star Circle—set in a subdivision without pressurized water—while safety concerns over a gunman delayed the response, and they refilled the tank by midday.

A judge ruled that plans for a forensic mental health facility west of Laurel will remain on hold until officials complete an analysis on water usage — officials said the delay is needed to secure a water source.

Billings psychiatrist Eric Arzubi shared advice on Thursday with the Gazette to help adults and children cope with Sunday's traumatic events, offering clear steps for healing.

Head Start Back to School Golf Tournament

Join us Friday, September 11, 2026, at Lake Hills Golf Course for a day of golf, great company, and supporting 200 local children and families. Registration is $650 per team and includes green fees, cart, range balls, dinner, and one drink ticket per player; check-in begins at 11:00 AM with a 1:00 PM shotgun start.