Good morning, Missoula.

A new WalletHub study shows Montana ranks near the bottom for remote work because it scores low in internet access, cybersecurity & housing options.

The study placed Montana 50th for work environment and 48th for living environment.

Teachers in inflatable costumes kicked off the Eagle Walk fundraiser at Valley Christian School today to raise funds for new gym wall pads and an expanded crow's nest, as students cheered from the bleachers; improvements begin in May and continue through summer.

The Montana Board of Education approved Dr. Jeremiah Shinn as the new president of the University on Tuesday, Apr.

14. He will focus on keeping college affordable (he helped develop a $150-million program at Boise State) after a rapid search with over 70 applicants.

Missoula volunteers will gather at Caras Park near the Clark Fork River this weekend to remove trash and protect local water systems.

The cleanup—organized by the Clark Fork Coalition—will kick off a later riverwalk event that highlights community care for our environment.

On April 10, the new Lolo Forest supervisor approved a 15-year project to log over 20,000 acres south of Thompson Falls to lower wildfire risks, build roads and change trails, and enable seasonal public motorized access & safety measures.

The US Forest Service is addressing public concern over a USDA reorganization plan that could potentially close some local offices + officials stressed that federal control remains unchanged, research continues, and staffing will be adjusted to support ongoing forest care.

Kalshi filed suit in federal court today to block Montana Attorney General Austin Knudsen from enforcing state gambling laws against its online prediction market — the company claims its event contracts are federally regulated by the CFTC after receiving cease-and-desist letters.

A new WalletHub report found that Missoula rents ranked 34 among 180 U.S. markets as of today, but high demand in this college town means many residents share homes or rent individual rooms — showing that the ranking doesn’t capture the housing challenges fully.

Montana women's basketball added a new transfer guard, a high-scoring athlete (Idaho Falls native) and 2025 Gatorade award winner, who will join the team this season.

The Montana Grizzlies have secured a commitment from Jordan Clark, an all-conference guard who has scored over 1,000 career points, to strengthen the team for the upcoming season in Missoula.

STiLGONE Live Concert

10:30 p.m. — Top Hat — Free entry — Enjoy a live performance from STiLGONE in downtown Missoula's vibrant atmosphere.

International Ballet Stars - The Sleeping Beauty

7-10 p.m. — University of Montana - Dennison Theatre — Tickets required — Experience the enchanting tale of Princess Aurora and her magical journey from curse to awakening.

2026 Western Montana Career Fair

2:30-6 p.m. — Hilton Garden Inn Missoula — Free entry — Explore job opportunities at Western Montana's largest career fair.

Kitchen Dwellers Concert

7-11 p.m. — The Wilma — Ticket pricing TBA — Experience the musical journey and tales from the road with Kitchen Dwellers.

Jazzoula Festival

6-10 p.m. — Zootown Arts Community Center — $30 Artist Supporter / $28 General / $15 Students — Experience the finest jazz from Montana's artists at the premiere festival since 1984.

Garden City Brewfest

12-6 p.m. — Caras Park — $20 for a taster glass — Experience Montana’s ORIGINAL BrewFest with over 50 beers, ciders, and more in the heart of Missoula.

Common Ground: A Conversation About Montana's Public Lands, Climate, Water, and Wildlife

Join local experts for an open community conversation with leading voices in wildlife, climate, water, and public lands. Together, we'll explore what's at stake for Montana's natural heritage, what's working, and how we can collectively navigate the challenges ahead.

Unknown Mortal Orchestra Live

8 PM – 12 AM — The Wilma — Ticket prices vary — Experience the sounds of Unknown Mortal Orchestra from their latest album, V, in an intimate setting.

The California Honeydrops - Lovin' Made Easy Tour

7-11 p.m. — The Wilma — Cost info not specified — Experience the electrifying retro-soul sound of The California Honeydrops performing live.

Beast Your Biz 2026

4-7 p.m. — Zootown Arts Community Center — No-host bar — Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and kick off your learning journey with appetizers and networking.