Good morning, Missoula.

Montana auctioneer Jace Thompson was named the 2026 World Livestock Auctioneer Champion on Saturday, June 20 after competing at the Livestock Marketing Association’s Annual Convention in Deadwood, South Dakota—he will now serve as an ambassador to introduce more young people to the livestock industry.

Missoula PaddleHeads will host 'Stars, Stripes and Summer Nights', a community fireworks celebration at Silver Park on July 3 with food trucks, family activities, local booths, and a beer garden — the event follows a paddle game and emphasizes safe public fireworks use.

Shari Montana, founder of River Pines Horse Sanctuary, advises pet owners to include animals like horses in wildfire emergency plans.

Anne Miller from Montana Disaster + Emergency Services says family go kits should include supplies for pets to help ensure a swift evacuation if wildfires hit.

The Education Interim Committee met on June 15 and 16 and prepared recommendations for the 2027 Legislature including plans to boost school safety, extend special education, and improve mental health services.

The committee discussed teacher innovation, K-12 testing, and career training & will hold a final meeting in September.

A new study by SmileHub ranks Montana as the top state for outdoor enthusiasts today—using 18 metrics to measure local hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing options within easy driving distance.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks asks residents to report sightings of the Greater Short-horned Lizard by taking photos with date and location details using the iNaturalist app, their website, or email.

The tracking effort aims to better understand declines caused by habitat loss.

The Seeley-Swan Hospital District Board is reviewing options (a levy or new funding) to preserve services at the Partnership Health Center as dental care stops after July 30 and changes to primary care and telehealth may follow.

Miscon - Missoula's Science Fiction Convention

Date and Time TBA — Missoula County Fairgrounds — Cost varies — A 4-day celebration featuring games, panels, and workshops focused on fantasy, science fiction, and pop culture.

Missoula Marathon

Missoula Marathon — 16-week training period leading up to the race — Missoula Montana Airport — Check registration details and prepare for a fantastic marathon experience.

Mid-Year Celebration Gym Leader Challenge Tournament

All day — Retrofix Games — Entry Fee Required — Compete in the vibrant Gym Leader Challenge with fellow Pokémon enthusiasts.

PBL Travel Team Fundraiser at Missoula PaddleHeads

5:30-8:00 p.m. — Ogren Park at Allegiance Field — Ticket proceeds support Daly Mansion Preservation Trust — Enjoy baseball while contributing to a great cause.

Missoula PaddleHeads VIP Experience

6:35-10:35 p.m. — Ogren Park at Allegiance Field — VIP packages available — Enjoy an exclusive game day experience with tailgating and player interactions.

Jaden Decker 2026 Tour

7-11 p.m. — The Jack Saloon — Check for ticket prices — Experience the captivating sounds of rising star Jaden Decker live in Lolo, MT.

Missoula Clinic by The Street Dog Coalition

9-11 a.m. — Watershed Navigation Center — Free services — Providing essential veterinary care for pets of people experiencing homelessness in Missoula.

Glacier Range Riders vs. Missoula PaddleHeads Community Night

5:30-9:30 p.m. — Ogren Park at Allegiance Field — Ticket revenue supports local charity — Celebrate baseball while giving back to the community.

Downtown ToNight at Caras Park

5-9 p.m. — Caras Park — Free entry — Enjoy live music, food trucks, and local makers while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Missoula.

Tape B and Levity Concert

4-7:30 p.m. — KettleHouse Amphitheater — Ticket prices vary from $71 to $763 — Enjoy an afternoon of live music with Tape B and Levity at a stunning venue.