Good morning, Missoula.

A former mill in Missoula has been turned into Story House Montana, a film production hub that may support up to 400 jobs by retraining many of the 150 displaced mill workers and already has two productions planned.

A 22-year-old woman died when her Jeep collided with a truck on Highway 93 in a fiery crash, and local updates note that water project improvements, higher home buying costs, and a reminder of Mt. St. Helens' ash 45 years ago add to the region's mix of news.

A 2024 study by the Brewers Association showed that for the first time in nearly 20 years more breweries closed than opened in the nation—Montana’s craft brewers may face similar challenges as rising costs and lower sales put pressure on local taprooms.

Local brewers are monitoring market shifts to decide on next steps.

A new report lists seven Montana locations with higher chances for bear encounters, including areas near the Northern Continental Divide and Greater Yellowstone.

Locals and visitors are advised to carry bear spray and secure food when hiking—steps that help reduce risks during outdoor activities.

A WalletHub study finds Montana ranked 41st for military retirees with a score of 47.23—showing low marks in both health care and economic factors.

The study compared 28 measures, including veteran numbers and job opportunities, across all 50 states and the District of Columbia.

Missoula parks officials will host a master plan open house today — from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. at Goodworks Place at 129 W.

Alder St. to collect community feedback on new recreation planning.

The Missoula housing market has eased to pre-pandemic levels with more homes for sale and buyers able to negotiate closing costs.

Local realtor data shows 280 homes sold this year with a median price of $550,000 — a sign of a healthier and more balanced market.

Whitefish's Erin Wilde won her fifth straight high jump title by clearing 5 feet, 8.75 inches—a win that helped her overcome injury setbacks—and her teammate Tara Ohlwiler won the 100 in 11.72 seconds and set a personal best in the 200 with 23.67 seconds in Sacramento.

Missoula Big Sky Eagles’ senior class became the first since 2017 to qualify for the state tournament in all four seasons after the team beat Helena Capital 18 to 1 and 13 to 1 in a Western AA play-in series—boosting the Eagles' record and setting a new tone of hard work under coach Trevor Subith; the seniors, including Irene Griswold, Kyler Latrielle and Sadie McGuinn who started on varsity as freshmen, left their mark during their final season.

Carpetman

7-9:30 p.m. — The Wilma — $ — Experience the unique sound of Hippie Sabotage, the production duo known for their captivating music.

Higgins Lot Alternative Market

9 AM – 1 PM — Higgins Lot — Free entry — Explore local vendors and enjoy the vibrant community market atmosphere in downtown Missoula.

Barnett Memorial Golf Tournament

54-hole stroke play event — May 25-26 — Missoula Country Club — Registration required — Compete in a local golf tradition over Memorial Day weekend.

Lord Huron Live Concert

2:30-4:00 p.m. — KettleHouse Amphitheater — Cost TBA — Enjoy the enchanting sounds of Lord Huron in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Missoula PaddleHeads vs. Glacier Range Riders

2 AM – 11 AM — Ogren Park at Allegiance Field — Ticket prices vary — Experience the excitement of a five-game series as the Glacier Range Riders challenge the Missoula PaddleHeads.

Arts Missoula Annual Awards

5:15-7:00 p.m. — Holiday Inn Missoula Downtown by IHG — $55 Single Seat Tickets / $500 Table of 10 — Celebrate local artists and arts advocates at this annual reception featuring music, hors d’oeuvres, and more.

Met Opera Live: Il Barbiere di Siviglia

11 AM – 3 PM — The Roxy Theater — No hidden fees — Experience the charm of this classic opera in high-definition broadcast.

The Garden Meal

6:00 – 7:30 PM — Missoula Public Library — Free entry — Connect with fellow gardeners to create a meal using fresh produce and enjoy a community atmosphere.

Missoula Family Tour: Playgrounds & Carousel Fun

1.5-2 hours — 455 E Main St, Missoula, MT — Children 2 and under enter free — Explore Missoula's top family spots with a guided tour featuring playgrounds and a lovely carousel.

Downtown Tonight

5-9 p.m. — Caras Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music, local food trucks, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of Missoula.