Good morning, Billings.

A local couple visited Billings Library’s Memory Lab to digitize family slides before a funeral with tools like the CZUR Scanner + Kodak Scanza, and the lab is available by appointment Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Utility crews in Yellowstone County worked nonstop after Wednesday's 70 mph wind storm knocked down power lines and damaged 40 poles (17 on Wold Road near Laurel) as they restored electricity through Friday.

Billings job seekers can browse new employment postings online — a tool offering fresh career opportunities for local residents.

Updated listings provide a direct connection between job seekers and employers.

Boulder Elementary teacher Kaia Williams received the 'One Class at a Time' recognition for her inspiring teaching.

Sponsors including the Education Foundation for Billings Public Schools plus Western Security Bank and City Brew Coffee honored her with a $500 grant and a $150 gift card.

Teacher Darla Torix from Laurel now mentors new educators through the ASPIRE grant from Montana State University.

Her guidance via in-person + video calls builds essential skills and confidence as teachers face a growing shortage statewide.

Billings city officials are asking residents to report missing trash bins after a wind event so crews can quickly address the issue.

Residents should use the online link and limit calls to help speed up the response.

Billings-based Granite Peak Dispensary owner Drew Stensland welcomed the executive order that reclassified cannabis to Schedule 3—opening doors for research at Johns Hopkins and Mayo Clinic and promising tax relief through standard business deductions, as legislative committee member Kari Boiter noted new studies could soon follow.

The U.S. House passed a bill Thursday, Dec.

18 that would remove gray wolves from the endangered species list, which supports Montana’s current wolf management. Local lawmakers back the measure—while environmental groups caution it might risk wolf recovery.

Construction at Signal Peak Energy Arena is about 70% complete in Billings, and officials said the arena will open in spring 2026.

Residents can look forward to a new venue for local sports and events.

Crews are pouring concrete for two ice rinks at the new Signal Peak Energy Arena in Amend Park as part of the $16 million project that will open in spring 2026 — the Yellowstone Ice Foundation hopes the arena will boost local participation in hockey and other ice sports.

Parker Brown and The Bleeding Hearts Concert

6:30-10 p.m. — The Pub Station — $19.15 — Experience a night of versatile musical talent with Parker Brown and special guest Jennaka Beartusk.

Wretches And Kings

7-8:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — $28.65 to $49.15 — Enjoy live performances from Montana’s top tribute bands, Wretches and Kings and Hang Em High.

Riley Haynie Concert

8-9:30 p.m. — The Pub Station — Ages 21+ — Experience the soulful Americana sounds of Riley Haynie with special guests No Cigar and Gallatin Ghost Train.

Midnight Over Montana - A New Year's Eve Celebration

7 PM - 1 AM — DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Billings — Ticket price includes buffet and champagne toast — Celebrate New Year's Eve with breathtaking views, live music, and a globally inspired menu.

Tom Catmull Live Performance

7:30 p.m. — Craft Local — $12 — Enjoy an evening of live music with Tom Catmull and Lee Calvin in Billings.

Nate Bargatze: Stand-Up Comedy Show

7-8 p.m. — MetraPark - First Interstate Arena — Tickets required — Enjoy a night of laughs from a unique stand-up comedian with an unconventional background.