Here's your local news at a glance for Thursday, the 27th of March.
Good morning, Missoula.
A Missoula woman, Emily Svoboda, 31, was sentenced today to 13 years in prison—she pleaded guilty to trafficking meth and fentanyl in late 2022 after a multiagency investigation.
On March 25, Attorney General Austin Knudsen reported that Montana law enforcement seized 275,091 dosage units of fentanyl in 2024—31% less than 2023—while making 551 drug-related felony arrests, including those of alleged Mexican cartel members.
Seizures of methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin increased, and fentanyl-linked overdose deaths fell to 55.
A Missoula man was sentenced Tuesday to 10 years in federal prison — officials said he was arrested last year for drug trafficking after authorities found him with 5,000 fentanyl pills.
The south zone of Mount Jumbo reopened this morning after closing in early December to protect over 100 wintering elk—city parks officials explained that the seasonal closure helps prevent harm during a sensitive time.
The north zone remains closed until May 1—hikers must follow posted signs to avoid a $500 fine.
Missoula officials said the Johnson Street Emergency Shelter will begin winding down its services in April due to a funding shortfall and finish by Aug.
31 while they launch a housing sprint to help people find housing—offering aid with deposits, rental applications, and partnering with local support programs. The city will not provide direct funds for the effort and plans to raise $400,000 through private donations.
The House Judiciary Committee heard Senate Bill 297 on Tuesday, which would close loopholes in the Montana Consumer Data Privacy Act and strengthen online protections for children over 13.
Sen. Daniel Zolnikov said the bill, modeled after a Connecticut law, passed the Senate unanimously but critics argued it would burden non-bank financial institutions + some questioned its necessity.
A personhood bill that would extend constitutional rights to embryos passed the House Tuesday with a 57–43 vote and now faces review in the Senate.
Lawmakers expect the measure to struggle because it needs 43 more senators to reach the required 100—making its future unlikely given current partisan divisions.
Dulcé Sloan Stand-Up Comedy Performance
Dulcé Sloan brings her sharp wit and bold humor to The Wilma for an evening of comedy on March 28, 2025.
Orchard Homes Winter Market
The Orchard Homes Winter Market offers local vendors and a variety of goods for the community every Saturday during its season from January to March.
Virtual Senior Living Tour
9 AM - 7 PM | The Village Senior Residence | Free entry | Explore exceptional dining and activities in a top-rated senior living community.
Meggie McDonald Acoustic Show
6-10 p.m. — The Still Room Restaurant, Bar and Casino — Check for cover charge — Enjoy an intimate acoustic solo performance in a cozy venue.
Champagne Drip Concert
8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — The Wilma — Ticket prices vary — Experience innovative electronic music from Los Angeles-based producer Champagne Drip.
Missoula Valley Winter Market
9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Southgate Mall — Free entry — Explore a variety of local produce, crafts, and festive treats at the tenth anniversary celebration.
Prune-the-Moon Workshop
2-5 p.m. — Moon-Randolph Homestead — Suggested donation $20-30 — Learn the art of pruning old apple trees in a historic orchard while enjoying hands-on experience and community.
Connecting to Land Through an Indigenous Lens with Lailani Upham
5:45-8 p.m. — Missoula Public Library — Free entry — Explore Indigenous stories and their connection to the natural world and human experiences.
Scott Pemberton Concert in Missoula
8 PM - 2 AM — Monk's Bar — Entry fee TBD — Experience the funky guitar wizardry of Scott Pemberton and his electrifying band live.
TYNAN Live Performance
5-9 p.m. — The Badlander — Ticket info not provided — Experience an evening with TYNAN as he showcases his unique electronic soundscapes.
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