Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: How a Helena oncologist just lost his Montana medical license forever

Also, don't miss Christmas Eve worship on the Helena Patch calendar

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Good morning Helena! Your connection to what's happening around town is here. Take a sip of coffee and read on. ☀️

In today's newsletter:

  • How a Helena oncologist just lost his Montana medical license forever
  • Could Helena’s 136-year-old YMCA really have to close its doors?
  • Should Helena’s empty governor’s mansion be saved, sold, or torn down?

Also on today's calendar: Christmas Eve worship and 4 more events.

Find out what's happening in Helenafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

Today's riddle: What did the balloon say to the doctor? 🤔 (Answer below!)

Weather forecast:

Find out what's happening in Helenafor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • Sunday: Mostly cloudy, with a high of 37 and low of 31 degrees.
  • Monday: A morning shower; cloudy, temps: high: 45, low: 27.
  • Tuesday: Considerable cloudiness, with a high of 40 and low of 30 degrees.

📰 News we're reading

1. Medical board revokes Helena cancer doctor's medical license (montanafreepress.org) — State medical regulators have permanently revoked the Montana license of longtime Helena oncologist Dr. Thomas Weiner, ending his ability to practice after findings of substandard care for several patients. The decision follows years of concern in Helena, including his firing from St. Peter’s Health and a federal settlement over billing practices, and brings a measure of closure for some local families.
   

2. Helena YMCA seeks community support while facing financial challenges (ktvh.com) — The Helena Family YMCA, a fixture in the community since 1889, is warning it may have to close without new financial support from local residents. From after-school care and swim lessons to pickleball and youth basketball, the Y’s programs have shaped generations of Helenans, and leaders say donations in the coming months are critical to keep doors open.
   

3. What Should Montana Do With The Governor's Mansion Now? (weareshelby.com) — State leaders are asking for public input on what to do with Helena’s now-vacant governor’s mansion at Carson and Broadway, which has sat empty since 2021. Options on the survey include remodeling it for state use, selling it, or tearing it down for green space, but any reuse would require major repairs and asbestos removal.
   

4. Defending state champs HCS Lady Rams remain undefeated (ktvh.com) — Helena Christian School’s Lady Rams are off to a dominant 9-0 start as they defend last season’s state title, winning every game so far by double digits. Players and coaches credit tough offseason work, strong team culture, and a relentless defensive mindset. The team next hits the court at a tournament hosted by St. Andrew’s in East Helena.
   

5. Montana receives $10M grant to boost early literacy in schools (montanarightnow.com) — Helena-based state education leaders have secured nearly $10 million in federal funding to expand early literacy support in Montana’s rural, tribal, and high-needs schools. The grant will fund one-on-one virtual tutoring for grades 1–3, professional development in Science of Reading methods, and tools to help educators and families track and support children’s reading progress, with participation details coming in the new year.
   

📸 Around Helena

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💬 Chatter

What your neighbors are talking about on social media

  • Want to give a shout out to Scotty at Ruckers Furniture.
    His customer service skills and follow through are the best! Thanks, Scotty! (Nextdoor Nob Hill)
  • A specialty Gary D.
    Snake (Zootopia) themed birthday cake from the Crash Cart Bakery! Rich chocolate layers with raspberry buttercream, yum! If you need a special cake… (Nextdoor Westside/Euclid Ave North)
  • Tractor Supply Company posted a job opening for Team Member in Helena. Apply here.
  • State of Montana posted a job opening for Accounting Technician in Helena. Apply here. You can search for other jobs near Helena here.

Ok Helena! So now you're in the loop about what's happening today. Thanks for reading, and see you in your inbox next time! Oh -- and if you like what you're reading, invite a friend to Patch AM!

-- The Patch AM Team

P.S. The answer to today's riddle: I feel lightheaded!
Got a good riddle for PatchAM? Send it to us!

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