Good morning, Great Falls.

North Central Independent Living Services hosted a picnic on Monday in Great Falls to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with an official marking planned for this Friday.

As back-to-school season approaches in August, Great Falls parents face high supply costs and community fundraisers are easing the burden.

United Way’s Back 2 School Blast (registration open until July 31st with distribution on August 15 at Montana ExpoPark) and Verizon-Cellular Plus’ Backpack Giveaway (donations accepted at 701 Third Street NW with an event on August 2nd) will provide essential items for students.

The Montana State Fair will begin in Great Falls on Friday, July 25 and will run until August 2.

The fair will feature headliners such as Jo Dee Messina on July 27, Tucker Wetmore on July 28, the Oak Ridge Boys on July 29, SmashMouth on July 31, Scotty McCreery on August 1, and Lecrae and Gio on August 2 — along with a carnival, rides, horse racing, and craft vendors.

Save Wild Trout Montana and Upper Missouri River Waterkeeper commissioned a study to examine water quality in the Jefferson River basin—finding that low oxygen levels and high temperatures have endangered trout—and they hope the report will prompt state officials to boost monitoring efforts.

At an agricultural summit near Havre on July 12th, about 40 farmers, health professionals and experts learned about regenerative organic practices to improve soil quality and community food access in Montana.

Organizers said organic farming faces challenges like higher costs and lower yields—local efforts and innovative financing could support a sustainable shift.

Cascade County will hold an auction of surplus fleet vehicles and equipment at Ox and Sons on July 29—items not meeting the reserve price will be re-auctioned on August 5.

Officials said they raised the minimum reserve by $500 to cover fees and help sell vehicles that have been unsold since COVID.

City Commissioners amended their agreement with the Montana Department of Transportation during the July 15 meeting to update cost commitments for the River’s Edge Trail relocation along River Drive South — the new design will remove the confusing jog behind the police department and water park and now moves to right-of-way and utility negotiations. Once completed, Great Falls Park and Recreation will maintain the straight, direct trail that runs along the Missouri River.

Open Prose and Poetry Reading Hour

6-7 p.m. — Cassiopeia Books — Free entry — Share your creative work in an engaging community reading session.

Great Falls Voyagers vs. Billings Mustangs

7-8:30 p.m. — Centene Stadium — Tickets available — Enjoy an exciting baseball matchup as the Voyagers take on the Mustangs.

Billings Mustangs at Great Falls Voyagers

7-8:30 p.m. — Centene Stadium — Tickets available — Cheer on the Voyagers as they face the Mustangs in an exciting baseball matchup.

Tucker Wetmore Live Performance

7:30-10:30 p.m. — Montana ExpoPark — Tickets available — Experience an unforgettable show with Tucker Wetmore's high-energy country hits and southern charm.

Big Sky Pro Rodeo

7:00-8:30 p.m. — Montana ExpoPark — Check website for ticket prices — Experience high-energy rodeo action with top-tier athletes and daring stunts under the summer skies.

Bashin' Trash River Cleanup

9 AM – 12:30 PM — Oddfellows Park — Free entry — Help beautify your favorite park, trail, or river access in the Great Falls area.

Great Falls Voyagers vs. Idaho Falls Chukars

7-8:30 p.m. — Centene Stadium — Tickets available — Enjoy an exciting baseball game as the Voyagers face off against the Chukars.

Idaho Falls Chukars at Great Falls Voyagers

3:30-6:30 a.m. — Centene Stadium — Ticket details available — Enjoy a thrilling baseball game between the Voyagers and Chukars with classic ballpark snacks.

Silent Book Club for August

10 AM - 12 PM — Luna Coffee Bar — Free entry — Engage in book discussions while enjoying your favorite coffee.

Great Falls Voyagers vs. Billings Mustangs

7-8:30 p.m. — Centene Stadium — Tickets available — Get ready for some baseball as the Voyagers take on the Billings Mustangs!

Direct Support Professional

Direct Support Professionals provides daily support for adults with developmental disabilities 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 AND SIGN ON BONUSES. Call 406-452-9531 to inquire