Good morning, Missoula.

Early on March 29, 2025, Missoula Police responded to a stabbing near O’Shaughnesy and Flanigan Street when 26-year-old Eva Smith, who was kicked out of a bar for heavy drinking, became belligerent and used a 12-inch kitchen knife to stab J.N. during an altercation among four friends — she was later arrested and charged with felony assault with a weapon.

Montana’s public schools will receive $52.1 million in extra funding + the money will support programs, special education, and teacher salaries under a law proposed by Rep. David Bedey that takes effect July 1; the governor’s office requested the funding to ease budget challenges.

A bill that would require pharmacy benefit managers to pay independent pharmacies at least 106% of the National Average Drug Acquisition Cost plus a dispensing fee passed the House in early March but now faces strong opposition in the Senate from lobbyists.

Small, rural pharmacies report a 60% drop in reimbursements since 2019 and say the measure is needed to help them stay in business.

The Montana Senate gave initial approval to Senate Bill 203, which would raise income tax deduction thresholds and cut state income taxes by over $200 million a year — this measure is part of several proposals aimed at providing tax relief to middle-class Montanans.

The Senate also advanced Senate Bill 434, which would grant a one-time $400 property tax refund for homeowners.

Starting April 15, Fort Missoula Regional Park will allow pickleball players to reserve courts 1—3 for one-hour games from sunrise to sunset up to seven days in advance while courts 4—6 remain open for walk-in play.

The reservation system runs through mid-October with no refunds for weather cancellations but lets players reschedule by calling the park.

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.

Missoula Valley Winter Market

9 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Southgate Mall — Free entry — Explore a vibrant mix of local produce, crafts, and treats at this winter market celebration.

Spring 2025 Master Naturalist Certification Course

10 a.m. — Montana Natural History Center — Registration required — Gain knowledge and skills in naturalist education and conservation.

The Backseat Lovers Performance

8-9:30 p.m. — The Wilma — Ticket info TBA — Enjoy an evening with the indie rock sensations from Salt Lake City.

Heaven Zest Concert

12-4 p.m. — Caras Park — Free entry — Enjoy a magical performance with Spirit-infused music from multi-talented artist Heaven Zest.