Billings Daily Digest Wednesday, June 24, 2026
Ty's Take
There's something worth paying attention to in that Yellowstone County zoning hearing coming up—a mental health facility proposed near Laurel, which means the county's wrestling with how to serve people who need help while keeping neighbors comfortable with the answer. That's not a fight unique to us, but it's the one we're having right now, and it matters whether we sort it out with our eyes open or our minds made up. Same week the Fortins write a five-million-dollar check to St. Vincent's, which tells you something about where private charity lands and where public infrastructure has to pick up the slack. Both stories are about how a region takes care of its own—one through a boardroom decision, one through the harder work of zoning meetings and public comment. Billings is big enough now that we can't assume everyone knows everyone else's troubles anymore. That's growth. But it also means we've got to be more intentional about it.
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Billings Gazette
Missoula-based team creates card game posing off-the-wall scenarios
A Missoula-based game development team has created a new card game that challenges players with unusual and unexpected scenarios. The game offers creative gameplay designed to entertain and engage players looking for something different.
Billings neighbors: Obituaries for June 24
The Billings Gazette published obituaries for community members who passed away as of June 24. These notices honor the lives and memories of local residents.
June 23 recap: Billings news you may have missed today
This roundup captures the day's important local news stories that readers may have missed on June 23. The digest brings readers up to speed on community happenings across Billings.
County sets public hearing for zoning with mental health facility planned near Laurel
Carbon County has scheduled a public hearing to discuss zoning changes for a proposed mental health facility near Laurel. The hearing will allow residents to weigh in on the development plans.
Photos: Fortin family donates $5M to St. Vincent Regional Hospital
The Fortin family has donated $5 million to St. Vincent Regional Hospital, marking a significant contribution to the local healthcare facility. The generous gift will support the hospital's mission and operations.
Man who allegedly abducted Billings teen accused of possessing child sex abuse material
A man accused of abducting a Billings teenager now faces additional charges related to possessing child sexual abuse material. The investigation continues as authorities pursue the serious allegations.
Rocky football tailgate season passes on sale June 26
Season passes for Rocky football tailgates become available for purchase on June 26. Fans can secure their spots now for upcoming home games.
Msu Billings athletic director Mike Bazemore leaving for Alaska
Mike Bazemore, the athletic director at MSU Billings, is leaving his position to take a role in Alaska. His departure marks a transition in leadership for the university's athletics program.
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