1) The McLaughlin Research Institute, a leader in genetics, neuroscience, and related research, announced during their 70th anniversary gala that it is being renamed the Weismann-Hood Institute. See: KRTV. The rebranding honors Dr. Irving Weissman, a Great Falls native and pioneer in stem cell research, and Dr. Leroy Hood, a prominent figure in human genetics and personalized medicine. Both have deep ties to Montana and have made significant contributions to the scientific community. Under the leadership of Dr. Renee Reijo Pera, the institute continues to enhance its research efforts, now bolstered by a partnership with Touro College of Osteopathic Medicine. This milestone and the ongoing work at the Weismann-Hood Institute are important for our community, reinforcing Great Falls’ role in advancing scientific research on both local and national levels. We congratulate the institute on this achievement and look forward to its continued success.

2) Congratulations to Chief Joseph Elementary School of Great Falls Public Schools on being named a National Blue Ribbon School! See TheElectric. Join us at the Kids Education Yes luncheon to discuss community growth strategies, Thursday, October 24th, 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM at the History Museum. RSVP to Jamie Marshall at [email protected] by October 19th.

3) We won a $625,000 financial award from the CDFI Fund pf the U.S. Treasury. This new loan capital will help enable us to fill financing gaps for entrepreneurs, businesses, real estate developers and nonprofits throughout the region. We continue work to secure our goal of $8 million in new loan capital to meet need.

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