Good morning, Missoula.

JD Sports has opened its first Montana location at Southgate Mall after Elote Mexican Grille closed.

The new retailer offers athletic shoes, apparel and jerseys — giving local shoppers more sportswear options.

Bennetto Fernandez retrofitted an early 2000s Isuzu NPR into a whale on wheels called Killatrina in Stevensville, aiming to inspire smiles and spur local creativity with his Montana Orca Project.

He hopes this eye-catching truck will encourage others to try new ideas.

A Consumer Reports study finds that Costco grocery prices are 21.4% to 23.7% lower than Walmart’s in metro areas including Denver — a sign of high grocery costs in Montana.

Shoppers may consider a Costco membership to help ease their food bills.

Montana elementary students are invited to enter the 2026 Law Enforcement Appreciation Poster Contest, announced by Attorney General Austin Knudsen today, and winners will receive $250 plus an ice cream social hosted by Montana Highway Patrol.

A recent conservation poll shows Montana voters are more worried about weakening public land protections — 83% oppose the rollbacks.

The bipartisan survey highlights growing support for safeguarding air, water, and wildlife across the West.

Missoula's Board of Health approved a variance request on Thursday granting temporary use of an old holding tank at Holland Lake Lodge near Condon—conditions require daily pump monitoring until repairs are complete.

New owner Eric Jacobsen said he will follow strict protocols to avoid potential contamination.

Big Sky Reptile Expo - Missoula Edition

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. — Big Sky High School — $10 Adults / $5 Children 5-10 — Explore exotic reptiles and top-tier pet supplies at this exciting one-day expo.

Coordination and Collaboration in Conservation Conference

Conservation Conference — Feb 23-27 — Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown — $30 — Explore innovative solutions for navigating a changing landscape in wildlife conservation.

Winter BrewFest

1-6 p.m. — Caras Park — $20 for taster glass — Celebrate the 15th anniversary with over 40 Montana-based brews, local food vendors, and live music.

Missoula Women's Fair

11 a.m.-4 p.m. — University Center Ballroom — Free entry — Celebrate women and support local nonprofits with shopping, pampering, and entertainment.

San Holo - Wholesome Riddim Chapter Two

8:00-9:30 p.m. — The Wilma — Cost not specified — Experience the musical journey of San Holo as he blends personal tales with innovative soundscapes.

Run For The Luck Of It!

8:45 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. — Missoula County Fairgrounds — Registration fee applies — Kick off your St. Patrick's Day with a festive walk or run, complete with a free kids dash and live Celtic music.

Montana Grizzlies Softball vs. Pacific Tigers

1-5 p.m. — University of Montana Softball Field — Tickets available — Come see the Grizzlies take on the Tigers in an exciting collegiate softball matchup.

Montana Grizzlies Softball vs. Pacific Tigers

12-4 p.m. — University of Montana Softball Field — VIP tickets available — Experience the excitement of college softball with premium seating and packages.