Good morning, Butte.

A Butte-based counselor and artist Kim Leathers held a library talk today to raise awareness about missing and murdered Indigenous people and warned her twelve-year-old granddaughter that she might be at risk—an exhibit of portraits and photos at the Carle Gallery underlines the urgent issue.

Dickerhoof Properties, the new owners of Butte Plaza Mall, will announce a major grocery store this summer—either late June or early July—as they plan to demolish the old Herberger’s store and convert the mall into a vibrant strip plaza while adding other retailers like Tractor Supply Co. nearby.

Officials in Butte-Silver Bow lost $20M in EPA funds for a planned community resiliency hub near the civic center after a Friday morning grant was unexpectedly withdrawn—despite meeting all required conditions.

The county will contest the decision within a 30-day appeal period and may seek legal action to secure alternative funding.

Montana lawmakers approved over $124 million in state funds — with up to $40 million in federal funding expected — to rebuild the mental health system by building a new facility in eastern Montana and adding beds to state-run hospitals.

The plan will also expand community care in rural areas and streamline legal processes for those in crisis.

Butte Central is set to finish its season with a busy weekend schedule as several teams play final contests.

The Maroon softball team travels Tuesday to Dillon and hosts games against Hardin and Frenchtown Friday and Saturday — the Baseball team hosts Tuesday and Thursday before a Friday away game, while the Tennis and Track teams compete in Lewistown and Livingston.

Butte American Legion Baseball will hold a bingo fundraiser on Friday, May 9 at Knights of Columbus Hall starting at 6:30 p.m. Players must donate $25 (covering 10 bingo games and prize tickets) and be at least 18 to participate.

Butte Mineral & Gem Show

9 a.m.-5 p.m. — Butte Civic Center — Adults $3, Children free — Discover stunning minerals and gems while enjoying games and activities for the kids.

Uptown Comedy Night

8:30-11:00 p.m. — Covellite Theatre and Uptown Lounge — Free entry — Enjoy a hilarious lineup of stand-up comedy every Thursday night.

A Taste of Ireland

7:30-10:30 p.m. — The Mother Lode Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the return of the acclaimed Irish music and dance sensation after its Off-Broadway debut.