Good morning, Missoula.

Missoula’s annual snow plow naming contest launched yesterday to invite residents to submit creative names for city snow plows, and entries will be accepted until midnight Feb.

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Missoula cannabis operators expect federal regulators to reschedule cannabis after an executive order was signed, which could lower tax burdens and spur research and professional support.

Experts say the process will take one to three years to complete.

International dancers will celebrate Ballet Beyond Borders' 10th anniversary with a gala performance on Saturday at Dennison Theater — the event follows a week of master classes and mentorships that unite cultures through dance.

University of Montana students are joining the Backcountry Hunters (BHA) club, a group that teaches hunting, fishing, and outdoor skills.

Club president Amory Kindle says the club connects newcomers and experienced outdoors enthusiasts with Montana’s public lands.

University of Montana researchers found that political reminders intensify views on wolves, making opinions more extreme.

The study, published Tuesday in Conservation Biology, suggests policy makers may need updated messaging for wolf conservation — a challenge for addressing local environmental concerns.

Missoula County freed up $10,000 to help the Interfaith Collaborative offer emergency shelter when shelters fill and temperatures hit 10 degrees, with faith groups on call for the next 21 weeks through June.

Officials say the grant covers staffing costs + cuts expenses compared to building a facility.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is recommending that the CDC reduce universally recommended vaccines from 17 to 11, but some Montana health officials disagree as they warn the change may send mixed messages.

New parents remain committed to following their doctor’s advice on vaccination schedules.

Partnership Health Center now operates independently from Missoula County as of January 1, and patients will see unchanged care while the clinic gains flexibility to hire and expand services — a move that may spur future growth in the community.

Travel site We Rate The World chose Missoula and Red Lodge as top winter getaways for their mix of outdoor adventures — from skiing to local retreats — that let visitors enjoy Montana’s snowy beauty.

The county board approved plans today for a mixed-use project with 68 apartments and business spaces at the former Anchor Marine site in East Missoula — the development will boost local housing and commerce.

Former Montana Grizzlies and Montana State Bobcats are taking the field in NFL playoffs this weekend (featuring players like Patrick O'Connell, Ty Okada, and Alex Singleton on teams such as the Seahawks, Steelers, and Broncos), showcasing Big Sky football on a national stage.

Riley Corcoran, the Voice of the Griz, has been named Montana Sportscaster of the Year by NSMA for the fourth time; he earned the honor during his 10th season (previous wins include three in a row from 2018-2020) and remains one of Montana’s top broadcasters.

KPOP Demon Hunters Dance Party

9 p.m. — Monk's Bar — $5 — Get ready to dance and sing the night away with beats from Big Lou and DJ Pan Dulce.

Jaenga Live Performance

8-11 p.m. — Zootown Arts Community Center — Tickets from $72 — Experience an unforgettable musical event with Jaenga in Missoula.

Missoula Writes

9:00 – 10:30 AM — Break Espresso — Free to attend — Engage in focused writing alongside fellow local writers in a supportive atmosphere.

Candlelight: Coldplay & Imagine Dragons Concert

6:30-7:29 p.m. — Missoula Children's Theatre — Tickets selling fast — Experience the enchanting music of Coldplay and Imagine Dragons illuminated by candlelight.

Daniel Donato Live Performance

8-10 p.m. — Top Hat — Cost info not listed — Enjoy a night of captivating music from Nashville's own guitar-slinger Daniel Donato.

Missoula Valley Winter Market

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Southgate Mall — Free entry — Explore over 40 local vendors offering fresh produce, unique crafts, and tasty treats at this beloved winter market.