Here's your local news at a glance for Wednesday, the 18th of March.
Good morning, Missoula.
Youppi, a 1.5-year-old transfer pet from California, charmed staff at the Humane Society of Western Montana and is ready for adoption at 5930 Highway 93 South.
The Society will offer free pet vaccines and microchips at the Missoula Public Library on Friday, Mar. 27 as part of *Project Community Connects*.
Holt Heritage Museum is asking for donations of $50,000 to relocate the historic Lolo School belltower building within six months; the project will help preserve a key part of our local heritage.
Zootown Music Festival will take place June 19-20 at the Missoula Fairgrounds with performances by The Lumineers, The Chicks, Tedeschi Trucks Band and special guest P.E.S.T.
Tickets are available online now before prices rise after March 30.
The University of Montana advanced 10 candidates for its presidency from over 60 applicants, according to the Commissioner of Higher Education.
The expedited search process — which now includes a new advisory group — aims to announce a replacement by the end of March.
UM will award honorary doctorates to an acclaimed author who wrote 'Perma Red' (one of Montana's top novels) and a business leader credited with growing Microsoft during an upcoming ceremony.
The honors recognize their contributions to literature and technology.
A National Park Service report for 2025 showed Yellowstone remained steady with over 4.7 million visitors while Glacier dropped to just over 3.1 million due to construction and reservation changes — Glacier plans system adjustments to help rebound in visitor numbers in 2026.
Spring prescribed burns are planned for around Missoula in the coming weeks to reduce wildfire risk; the Bureau of Land Management & U.S. Wildland Fire Service will burn about 1,000 acres using drip torches or aerial ignition when conditions permit, possibly creating several days of smoke.
On March 17, a transportation committee approved a new safety plan for Reserve Street that outlines improvements to intersections, access, and turning (including raised medians, improved lighting, and designated bike lanes) in Missoula.
The plan will be implemented over the next 5 to 10 years when funding is secured.
The Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, with regional partners, is moving to restore long-distance rail service by seeking easing of federal match requirements through Senate Bill 3728 and route options via Helena or Butte while Empire Builder improvements continue this summer.
Three teams from Galaxy Elite Athletics are hosting cheer clinics this weekend in Missoula to raise funds for a national competition in Orlando this May.
Local kids can join the sessions to learn cheer skills.
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.
Montana Grizzlies Softball vs. Seattle University Redhawks (DH)
11 AM – 3 PM — University of Montana Softball Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling doubleheader between the Grizzlies and the Redhawks.
WEST 22ND - The To Be or Not To Be Tour
8:00-9:30 p.m. — Top Hat — General Admission tickets available — Experience an unforgettable performance from WEST 22ND on their exciting tour.
Grieves Concert - Out Cold Tour
10:00 – 11:30 p.m. — Top Hat — Tickets available through Ticketmaster — Enjoy an electrifying live performance by Grieves during his Out Cold Tour.
Montana Grizzlies Softball vs. Portland State Vikings
12 PM — University of Montana Softball Field — Ticket prices vary — Catch the thrilling matchup between the Grizzlies and Vikings at the home field.
Rubber Soul Reimagined
7:30-10 p.m. — Zootown Arts Community Center — $20 GA Tickets / $15 Student Tickets — Experience a staged performance of the Beatles' iconic album 'Rubber Soul' with music, dance, and film.
Jeff Tweedy Concert featuring Macie Stewart
7:30-9 p.m. — The Wilma — Prices vary — Experience an evening of captivating music with Jeff Tweedy and special guest Macie Stewart.
Stonefruit + Cascadel Live At Monk's
7-11:59 p.m. — Monk's Bar — No cover charge — Chill live set with Stonefruit and Cascadel bringing fresh vibes to the stage.
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