Agriculture & Science: Montana State University, the Montana Department of Livestock, and the Montana Department of Agriculture will hold a grand opening July 17 for the new Combined State Laboratories building, bringing together veterinary diagnostics, analytical testing, and the MSU Wool Lab to support research, education, and producer services. Community & Health: LIFTT is extending thanks to Mid-Rivers Communications for a $5,000 sponsorship to sustain RideWell Transportation, helping elderly and disabled Eastern Montanans reach medical appointments. Outdoor Culture: Whitefish Legacy Partners will unveil its new Whitefish Legacy Center July 15, expanding outdoor education and conservation on the Whitefish Trail after a prior development plan fell through. Local Life & Safety: Billings baked under a heat dome with record-setting temperatures, and officials warn humidity and dangerous heat may linger. Wildlife & Tourism Caution: A Yellowstone bison attack left a grandfather seriously injured, with reports highlighting how quickly park encounters can turn dangerous. Sports & Montana Flavor: Montana State players cooled off with fly fishing during “Casting with the Cats,” turning a hot-weather team event into a community-style tradition. Arts & Storytelling: Opera Montana previews “A River Runs Through It” with shadow-cast performances at local sites, including Big Sky’s Riverhouse BBQ & Events July 26. Accessibility: A Laurel chapter of the Montana Association of the Blind is forming to reduce isolation and bring support closer to home. Legal/Politics Watch: A court fight over the Charlie Kirk killing continues as prosecutors argue they have “overwhelming” evidence while defense tries to cast doubt.