Good morning, Billings.

ZooMontana named Jessica Hart its new president and CEO—she served in an interim role since February—and announced reaccreditation of its programs.

Kayela Schindler, a Special Olympics athlete, gave the Billings Police a picture drawn by hand of a police K9 that now hangs in the Patrol report writing area.

Sgt. Mansur said the gift is a sign of the close bond between the police and the community — a reminder of local support.

An MSU Billings runner said that a team bus crash over the weekend injured six athletes—with two flown by life-flight and one still in a Spokane hospital—and driver Cecily Eagleton was cited for second-degree negligent driving amid reports of poor hospital care.

Montana State University Billings and Billings Public Schools have partnered to launch a direct admit program for high school seniors, first-time college freshmen, and students with at least a 2.0 GPA who complete a quick online application — giving them immediate acceptance.

The program will simplify enrollment and reduce stress for students by streamlining the traditional admission process — making it easier for students to begin college.

Montana airports have remained largely unaffected by the government shutdown that has lasted one week, but essential staff shortages—among workers like TSA and air traffic controllers—may lead to longer wait times if the shutdown continues.

Local groups in Billings are stepping in to support affected workers by preparing meals for staff and their children.

The Montana VA Health Care System launched its 2025 flu vaccination campaign on Oct.

7 with free walk-in and drive-up clinics statewide—each offering different hours. Enrolled veterans were urged to get the free flu shot to help protect those at risk.

Six MSU Billings cross country team members were injured in a single-car crash Friday night as they traveled to the Whitman Open—several received treatment at Spokane hospitals and the team did not compete.

MANIA: The ABBA Tribute Concert

7:30-9 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — Tickets from $24.50 — Experience the magic of ABBA through an electrifying tribute show with stunning visuals and all the classic hits.

Country Dance Lesson & Dancing Night

8:15 PM – 12:15 AM — The High Horse Saloon & Eatery — Check for entry fees — Enjoy a night of country dancing from classics to popular line dances in a lively saloon atmosphere.

4th Annual Celebrity Chef Gala

5-10 p.m. — Northern Hotel — Donations appreciated — A culinary evening with Chef Andre Rush benefiting veterans and rescues.

MLCT 94th Annual Conference

8 AM – 1 PM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings — Check for registration fees — Engage with local leaders and enhance your community knowledge.

Candlelight: Coldplay vs. Imagine Dragons

12:30-1:45 p.m. — Billings Depot — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons in a unique candlelight concert setting.

The Great Masked Pumpkin Race

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — Riverfront Park — Race day registrations available — Dress up and run or walk for your pumpkin in this fun community race.

Kameron Marlowe Live with Dalton Davis

7-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets required — Experience the thrilling voice of Kameron Marlowe alongside special guest Dalton Davis in a high-energy concert.

St. Olaf Orchestra Performance

7-9 p.m. — Billings West High School — Free entry — Experience the rich artistry and spirited performances of one of the finest collegiate orchestras in the country.

Montana Outdoor Recreation Summit Film Festival

7-11 p.m. — The Pub Station — $15 — Celebrate the outdoors with inspiring films and connect with fellow recreation enthusiasts at this engaging festival.

Country Dance Lesson & Country Dancing

8:15 p.m. — The High Horse Saloon & Eatery — Check website for entry — Boot scoot and boogie with a mix of old and new country music!