Good morning, Butte.

Representatives from Shodair Children's Hospital awarded scholarships to two Butte High seniors on Tuesday to honor local leaders Brooke Glennon and Tommy Mellott; Ella Collins received a $5,000 award as she plans to study medicine while Karsen McEwen said he will use his scholarship to coach baseball (both honoring mental health advocacy and community impact).

Rain in Butte has recharged groundwater and improved pastures, helping to lower wildfire risk—farmers and ranchers report that the steady rain benefits crops and livestock.

They expect the current conditions to lead to a healthier, safer summer.

A dispute over the Big Hole River’s health has led the Upper Missouri Waterkeeper to file a lawsuit against the Department of Environmental Quality after the agency denied a petition to label parts of the river as impaired by nutrient pollution— a decision that may hurt river life. The case will be heard—Friday, May 16.

Montana has faced five years of drought and Big Sky’s new $60 million water treatment facility offers hope by recycling wastewater to help local farms and extend ski seasons.

The facility converts reclaimed water into artificial snow—adding water back to the Gallatin watershed during summer.

Due to increased bear activity, the Bureau of Land Management closed the Carbella Recreation Site in Park County on May 13 to ensure public safety and will keep it closed until officials deem the area secure.

The TSA warned Montana travelers that lithium-ion rechargeable power banks are banned from checked luggage at all airports including Bozeman Yellowstone and Bert Mooney.

Passengers must carry these in their carry-on—failure to comply can lead to delays or confiscation of luggage.

Governor Gianforte signed House Bill 401 banning lab-grown meat to protect local ranchers and preserve Montana's food traditions.

The law, sponsored by Rep. Braxton Mitchell (R-Columbia Falls), will take effect on October 1st and may lead businesses to face consequences (license suspension, misdemeanor charges, fines or jail time) if they sell lab-grown meat.

Summer nears as snow melts and locals in Butte can soon explore six scenic hiking trails — featuring forest paths and mountain views suitable for both weekend walkers and seasoned hikers.

The guide lists public land routes to help plan safe outdoor adventures.

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.

Growling Old Men Concert

7-10 p.m. — The Mother Lode Theatre — Cost info not provided — Enjoy an evening with Montana's own Growling Old Men featuring mandolin and guitar melodies.

Monthly Memory Cafe

Time not specified — Butte-Silver Bow Public Library — Free entry — A supportive gathering for individuals experiencing early-stage memory challenges to foster connections.

The Divide Trail Race

9 AM – 6 PM — Thompson Park — Registration includes bib, medal, and prizes — Experience a thrilling 50 & 25K trail race along the Continental Divide.