News in brief

Musicians wanted for public performances in Belgrade

Musicians are needed for this year’s Dancing in the Grass series, which is held at Lewis and Clark Park every Sunday from May 31 through Sept. 6.

“We’re currently seeking family-friendly musicians and bands to volunteer for this season’s lineup,” reads an April 15 statement from the Belgrade Regional Parks, Trails and Recreation District. “Interested in performing? Contact Lisa Beedy at 406-388-4711 or lbeedy@belgrademt.gov to learn more and reserve your spot!”

Public invited to learn more about draft Future Land Use documents

Draft versions are available of Belgrade’s Future Land Use Documents are available for public inspection, and online Q&A sessions are scheduled for this week.

The online Q&A sessions are scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, and 5 to 6 p.m. Thursday, April 23.

Links to the meetings and the draft versions of the Belgrade Land Use Plan, Future Land Use Map, and Subdivision Regulations can be found at www.beheardbelgrade.com/clearly-belgrade.

Mayoral proclamation declares April 24 Arbor Day

Belgrade Mayor Michael D. Meis issued a proclamation this week recognizing April 24 as Arbor Day and encouraging citizens to "participate in appropriate activities and to take advantage of the benefits of the parks and other natural areas in our community."

Planting trees and maintaining older trees provides an opportunity for community interaction, volunteerism, economic development, and environmental conservation, according to the proclamation.

"Natural areas, trees, and landscapes provide not only community, beautification but also economic and environmental benefits," Meis said as he read the proclamation. "Trees provide many benefits to the community, including air purification, windbreaks, noise reduction, shade and energy savings."

New pedestrian crossing beacons installed

Belgrade Public Works installed new pedestrian crossing beacons in the Spooner Road school zone last week.

“These modern beacons replace older equipment and are brighter, more visible, and designed to better catch drivers’ attention when pedestrians are crossing,” reads an April 17 statement from the city. “Safety is a top priority, and we’re proud to continue investing in improvements that make getting around Belgrade safer for everyone. As always, please watch for pedestrians, slow down in school zones, and stay alert behind the wheel. More safety enhancements are on the way later this year.”

3 on ballot for Central Valley Fire District

The candidates running for two board trustee positions at Central Valley Fire District include Joel Fassbinder, Nathan Goodman, and Ron Murray.

Sample ballots for the May 5 election can be found at www.gallatinmt.gov/elections-department. Ballots were mailed on April 17, according to the county elections office.

City offers one-stop-shop for parks and rec programs

The City of Belgrade is offering a way for residents to register for recreation programs, reserve park and city facilities, and sign up for volunteer opportunities all in one place.

To register for CivicRec, create an account at https://secure.rec1.com/MT/belgrade-mt/catalog/index.

“Once you’re set up, you’ll have access to a full calendar of upcoming classes and events, plus the ability to register with ease,” reads an April 20 statement from the city. “You can also opt in for text and email notifications about class updates, cancellations, and facility closures. Take a few minutes to get signed up today so you’re ready for all of our upcoming summer programs. If you need help signing up or would like to do so in person, visit City Hall at 91 E. Central Ave. or call us at 406-388-3566.”

Family Movie Night on tap Friday

The local school district has invited people to a free Family Movie Night to be held April 24 at Belgrade High School.

The event will be a double feature: “The Incredibles” will begin at 6 p.m., and “Shrek” will start at 8:30 p.m.

Attendees should enter through door 14W, which is between the SEC and greenhouse on the Spooner Road side of the high school.

“Bring your own blankets, chairs, and comfy items to sit on the gym floor,” reads an April 17 statement from the school district. “Bleacher seating will also be available. Popcorn will be provided! Children 14 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Please contact melyoung@bsd44.org with any questions.”

Belgrade school district gets $5K grant

Bozeman Health Community Collaboration has awarded a $5,000 grant to Belgrade Public Schools.

Kara Poppleton, BSN, RN, helped secure the grant, according to a Tuesday statement from the school district.

“This funding will support vital CPR and trauma response training for both teachers and students,” reads the statement. “We appreciate the time and dedication that made this possible and extend our thanks to Bozeman Health for their generous support.”

Arbor Day celebration slated Saturday in Three Forks

The City of Three Forks is inviting people to a Tree Planting 101 event in celebration of Arbor Day.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. Saturday, April 25, at 607 S. Main St. In Three Forks.

Public invited to meet Manhattan principal candidates

A meet and greet with candidates for principal of the Manhattan middle school is scheduled for next Tuesday.

“This is a great opportunity for parents, students, staff, and community members to stop by, say hello, and get to know each candidate as we move forward in the selection process.

The event will begin at 5 p.m. April 28 in the Manhattan High School Commons, 200 W. Fulton Avenue, Manhattan.

10-year-old Belgrade resident accepted into Boston Ballet summer program

Exton Tucker, 10, of Belgrade, has been dancing with Montana Ballet Company for the past four years and has performed roles such as Fritz in “The Nutcracker.” He has been accepted into the Boston Ballet Junior Summer Intensive for 2026.

“We are seeking sponsors/donations to get him to Boston,” wrote his mother, Kristin Tucker, in an email.

A GoFundMe page set up to help get Exton to Boston had raised $2,325 out of a $5,000 goal as of Wednesday morning.

“Ballet is not the most typical path for boys, but Exton has embraced it wholeheartedly,” reads the GoFundMe page. “He shows up to rehearsals with dedication, perseverance, and joy, and we are proud of the commitment he has shown to developing his craft. Our hope is that he can continue training with Montana Ballet Company and eventually experience opportunities to pursue ballet at the professional level.”

The GoFundMe is at https://gofund.me/bf6b25154.

Vendors sought for Summer Nights

Owners/operators of food trucks, nonprofits, or craft businesses are invited to fill out an application to be part of this year’s Belgrade Summer Nights held by the Belgrade Community Coalition (BCC).

The event will be held Wednesdays June 24 through Aug. 19 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. on Broadway Street.

Those interested in being part of Summer Nights can visit https://www.belgreatmt.org/summernights for more information.

“Summer Nights is a fun and family-friendly community event that creates joyful evenings where families can gather and friends can reconnect in the heart of downtown Belgrade,” reads a statement from BCC. “With five fantastic nights filled with live music, delicious food trucks, local vendors, refreshing beverages, and engaging kids’ activities, it’s truly a celebration of community spirit.”

Free Market slated for April 26

Free clothing, food, and personal care items are available at a Free Market slated for next week and in May.

The event will be held from noon to 2 p.m. April 26 and May 31 at the Gallatin Valley Fairgrounds in Building #3.

Belgrade Give Big Kickoff Party to be held next Thursday

The public is invited to take part in family-friendly activities during the Give Big fundraising Kickoff Party next Thursday.

The event will be from 5 to 8 p.m. April 30 at the Belgrade Library and Community Center. There is no admission fee, and attendees will be invited to take part in various games and creative activities for youth and adults.

The event will feature some mini horses from Cowboy Heaven and stringed instrument players with the Belgrade Orchestra Enrichment Council. Lawn games will be provided by The Orchid Club, Belgrade Community Coalition, American Foundation for Suicide prevention and the Human Resource Development Council.

Inside, Lighthouse Ranch will have coloring pages at their table, and the Belgrade Library Foundation will have masking and selfie-photo options.

Refreshments and treats will be provided through the partnership with One Valley and commonFont.

Hunter education instructors recognized for their service

The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (FWP) honored its volunteer instructors this month.

Gallatin County hunter education instructors who received service awards include:

• John Cooney, for five years of service
• Patrick Cross, Julie Hill, and Roy Crouse, for 10 years of service
• Jeff Heaney, for 20 years of service

These individuals volunteer in FWP’s Region 3. Alan Noack, of Madison County, was honored as the Region 3 Hunter/Bowhunter Education Instructor of the Year.

“Alan and many other instructors volunteer significant time, talent and effort to teach new hunters the skills they need to be safe and successful in the field,” reads an April 3 statement from FWP Region 3. “Their service makes hunting possible for numerous individuals and families each year.”

Medicaid webinar slated April 28

The Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is hosting informational webinars regarding upcoming changes to Medicaid resulting from the federal House Reconciliation bill (H.R. 1). H.R. 1 introduces new federal requirements that will impact how certain individuals apply for and maintain Medicaid coverage. These changes will primarily affect adults enrolled in Medicaid Expansion.

During these webinars, DPHHS will provide an overview of key provisions of H.R. 1 and associated federal requirements; community engagement expectations for certain Medicaid members and associated timelines; and additional information on how providers can help support clients.

There will be two webinar options available. The first option will take place on Tuesday, Apr. 28, from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Registration is required. Register at https://tinyurl.com/8378ww87. The second option will take place on Wednesday, May 13, from 2 to 3 p.m. Register at https://tinyurl.com/2vr7dvbj.

Community needs survey closes April 30

Residents have until April 30 to make their voices heard regarding what they see as the most pressing health needs and concerns in local communities.

The survey is part of the 2026 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA) for Gallatin County launched by Bozeman Health in partnership with Gallatin City-County Health Department, HRDC, and One Health (formerly Community Health Partners). The survey will guide how Bozeman Health invests resources and serves as a data source to inform area programs, partnerships and funding decisions that address community priorities through 2029.

“Gallatin County is continuing to grow and change rapidly, and the needs of our community are evolving with it," said Lori Christenson, Health Officer for Gallatin City-County Health Department. "By partnering with Bozeman Health, HRDC, and One Health on the CHNA, we are making sure that our public health efforts are grounded in what residents are actually experiencing."

Gallatin County residents who are at least 18 years old, health care providers, and business leaders are encouraged to participate. The online survey takes about 15-20 minutes and is available at www.prcsurvey.com/begin/GallatinCountyCHNA2026.