Good morning, Billings.

Partial SNAP funding was approved Monday but many Billings residents still face food shortages as food banks report growing lines and increased demand—community groups in thirty areas are holding food drives and collecting over 1,000 pounds of donations to help those affected.

Brad Kostenko and Family Service noted that the gap in SNAP benefits is prompting more people to seek local assistance.

Jasianna, also known as JC, is a bright 9-year-old finishing third grade who loves reading, science, building with Legos and outdoor games — she has faced challenges in previous placements and will do best in a structured home that offers routine and family therapy.

A fire gutted the Feedlot Steakhouse in Shepherd Monday night around 6 p.m. and was mostly contained by 7:30 p.m.—the building is a total loss and authorities closed the corner of Scandia and Shepherd Roads while investigating the cause.

Billings customers at McDonald’s on Grand Avenue are fine with the new policy that rounds cash transactions to the nearest nickel—many say they do not miss the penny even when totals round up or down.

The change affects only cash payments and comes as coin use declines due to high production costs.

Gov. Gianforte led a Montana delegation on a trade mission to Japan and South Korea — joining ag producers to boost exports of wheat, barley, and beef.

The mission forged new market relationships — meeting with international companies that valued Montana’s high-quality protein products.

Golf WRLD Billings is now open and offers three simulators, coaching, a chipping range, and a putting green in a space that does not serve alcohol (a policy meant to welcome families and teens).

It is open every day from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. to give players a year-round indoor option for their swing.

Montana gas prices dropped 2¢ per gallon over the past week to average $3.00 as of Monday, November 3, based on Gasbuddy.com data.

Prices are 10.5¢ lower than one month ago and 9.1¢ lower than last year, with station prices ranging ($2.77 to $3.49).

A federal judge ruled that a plan to kill rainbow trout and replace them with Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness violates federal law—supporting a claim by Wilderness Watch that the plan harms the wild character of the area.

The decision rejects the Forest Service’s proposed use of helicopters, remote camps, and fish poison over 45 miles of waterways.

Billings businesses are helping as the federal shutdown froze SNAP benefits for 42 million Americans — over 12,000 families in Yellowstone County are affected and more than 30 food drive drop-off sites have opened to support local pantries.

Musselshell County has named a new board for the Roundup senior center amid spending concerns — meanwhile, a Billings father is working with the city to secure a safe spot for his late daughter’s memorial near the airport.

On Monday, Congressman Ryan Zinke announced he is co-sponsoring the COOL Enforcement Act, which would require beef labeled Product of the USA to be entirely raised and processed here—I say this law aims to defend Montana ranching.

Congresswoman Harriet Hageman introduced the measure to tighten U.S. beef labeling requirements.

Montana, which ranks fourth nationally for addiction risk, faces a growing challenge with few behavioral health services and a strong cultural stigma that stops many from seeking help—local centers like Healing Rock Recovery in Billings are working to provide safe care and combat rising overdose deaths. Gov. Gianforte and health officials say improving access to treatment is a top priority.

Black Jacket Symphony Presents AC/DC's Back in Black

7:30-9:00 p.m. — Alberta Bair Theater — $27.00 to $37.00 — Experience a note-for-note live recreation of AC/DC’s legendary album Back in Black.

Frontier Conference XC Championships

12 PM — Amend Park — Free entry — Cheer on the best in cross-country as they race for conference glory.

The Brothers Comatose with Goodnight, Texas

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ticketed event — Experience the vibrant sound of The Brothers Comatose blending string band traditions with rock energy in an engaging live show.

Kevin Gates Concert

7-9:30 p.m. — MetraPark - First Interstate Arena — Tickets available — Experience the raw lyricism and storytelling of chart-topping rap artist Kevin Gates.

Kenny Feidler Live

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Tickets Required — Experience the gritty western rock sound of Kenny Feidler with special guest Kellen Smith.

NOT.GREENDAY - A Tribute to Green Day

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Check for ticket prices — Celebrate the hits of Green Day with a high-energy tribute performance and special guest.

Disposable Heroes - A Tribute to Metallica

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — $28.65 to $49.15 — Experience the electrifying sounds of Metallica through Disposable Heroes and special guests.

Friends In Low Places - Garth Brooks Tribute

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Check ticket availability — Experience a lively tribute to 90's country with an energetic performance by a ten-piece band and special guest vocalists.

40th Annual Holiday Parade

6:30-8 p.m. — Skypoint — Free entry — Celebrate the festive season with the rockin' theme at this beloved local parade.

Repeat Offenders: Butterball 6 Concert

8 p.m. – 12 a.m. — The Pub Station — Ticket info available — Dance through the decades with eclectic hits and a lively atmosphere at this time-traveling concert.