Good morning, Great Falls.

Great Falls Fire Rescue responded just before 3:30 a.m. yesterday to a house fire at 741 32nd Avenue NE that started in the living room when a video gaming controller malfunctioned and caused extensive damage while a father was taken to the hospital and three of four cats were found safe as his son continues to search for the missing pet.

The C.M. Russell Museum in Great Falls today announced that its annual event, The Russell, brought in $9.16 million from 356 auction lots and a full attendance.

Russell's watercolor Women of America reached a record high bid when it sold for $1.6 million, and over $1 million from the event will support the museum’s operations.

During a March 18 work session, city officials reported that the Mansfield Theater seat replacement and ceiling repair project faces a $389,890 shortfall—staff will seek donations from local companies and major donors over the next six months while using SLIPA and TIF funds to support the repairs. Theater manager Owen Grubenhoff said construction may block bookings from May 20 until early October if the work takes longer than expected.

A bill that would let counties hold people in mental health crisis for 72 hours passed the Senate on March 25 and could give communities a faster treatment option if approved by the House.

It has received support from the state health department, the county attorney’s association and mental health advocates + aims to reduce waiting lists at the state hospital.

The Cascade County Detention Center credited its new Guardian RFID system for preventing four inmate suicides between March 14 and March 18 — the system helped officers check on inmates faster — as sheriff officials said it improved safety checks.

On March 25, Sen. Daniel Zolnikov testified before the House Judiciary Committee about Senate Bill 297, which would close a loophole in Montana’s Consumer Data Privacy Act and strengthen online protections for children over 13—modeled after a Connecticut law and following unanimous Senate support.

The Municipal Court remodeling project in Great Falls is nearly finished and officials expect the work to be completed soon.

LOCASH Concert

Enjoy a live performance by LOCASH at The Newberry in Great Falls.

Memory Cafe for April

12:30 – 2:00 p.m. — Great Falls Public Library — No cost — A relaxed gathering for those concerned with memory loss to connect and participate in activities.

Casey Donahew Concert

7:30-9:00 p.m. | The Newberry | Ticket prices vary | Dance and sing along to Texas country tunes with Casey Donahew in Great Falls.

Spring Loaded Music Festival

5 PM – 2 AM — The Do Bar — Check the event for ticket prices — A jam-packed day of metal, hip-hop, rock, and EDM performances by a diverse lineup of artists.

Sturniolo Triplets Concert

8:30-10:00 PM — Mansfield Center for the Performing Arts — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy an engaging evening with the Sturniolo Triplets as they bring their unique performance to Great Falls.

Direct Support Professional - Quality Life Concepts

Direct Support Professionals provides daily support for adults with developmental disabilities living in their own homes by providing quality support services that will assist them to maintain independence, provide opportunities for community integration, and create a nurturing, safe, and healthy environment. Full and part-time positions available with GREAT benefits. Call 406-452-9531 to inquire.